Because this is back-to-school week, this edition of Green Reads is extra packed. Buckle down, class! We’ve got a ruler and we’re not afraid to use it. And yes, it’s made of bamboo.
First, Grist’s Tom Philpott takes on the notion that sustainable agriculture proponents are unrealistic about what it takes to feed the world. Watch the sparks fly. And if you think Philpott delivers some grim news, wait till you read this piece on the same site.
Also on the national stage, the Obamas set up a White House farmers market (reason enough to move to D.C., were it not that I’d miss Caromont cheese too sorely) and the New York Times exposes the problem of weed-killer in the drinking water.
Now we go local, with some good news about city schools’ increased energy efficiency. I’m happy to hear it not only because it probably means young citizens are getting the conservation message, but because schools (like hospitals) are one of those bigger slices of the pie in terms of energy use. Like, say, bigger than the bamboo-ruler-store sector.
Our own mayor, Dave Norris, has been to the White House to talk green jobs with President Obama…(wait for it)…’s advisors. It’s all about renewable energy, folks. I bet the refreshments were first-rate, too.
Finally, I would be remiss not to mention the furor up in Orange County. The planners said no, the public rode in on mules to have their say, and then the Supes voted yes on the Wilderness Wal-Mart. Blech. It ain’t over yet, though: Preservationists are still actively fighting the store. Stay tuned, and write letters.
More links? Post ’em up.