Blogs

Air pollution comes from a variety of sources, many of which we see in our everday lives but do not recognize as sources of pollution.  The following is an overview of point and non-point sources, and specific examples of both.  It may be suprising to see that air pollution comes from every level of our society. READ MORE »

According the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), the amount of manure generated in 2005 was estimated to be over 335 million tons of dry matter per year.  Much of this manure comes from concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs).  The largest 2% of all CAFOs produce over 40% of all animals, according to the USDA. READ MORE »

Texas has always been seen as a straggler with environmental legislation although it is the provider of much of the country's power and gas.  When lawmakers convene for the regular session starting January 13, green energy is expected to get more serious consideration due to President-Elect Obama's focus on reducing greenhouse gasses and using more renewable energy.  Although the general attitude towards green energy is more positive, lawmakers doubt that anything substantial will be passed this session.  Gov. READ MORE »

Most emissions, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), come from both anthropogenic (human-caused) and natural sources.  Although it is useful to know how much comes from natural sources, only anthropogenic sources can be controlled.

VOCs and nitrogen oxides are both naturally occuring pollutants that combine in heat and sunlight to form ground-level ozone (O3), which is known to cause respiratory and cardiovascular problems.  Ozone pollution can also damage trees and other wildlife. READ MORE »

The problem of traffic congestion in major cities such as Houston has always been a problem.  Commutors dislike the long travel time it takes to get from home to work, and environmentalists dislike the emissions released from hundred of idling cars stuck in traffic. READ MORE »

Projections show that highway VMT will increase by 60% compared to a increase of only 23% in population, suggesting that Americans are expected to continue driving more miles on the road and will not decrease their driving habits.  This does not necessarily mean that vehicle-related pollution will increase by an equivalent amount because cars continue to be cleaner, more fuel efficient, and are running on alternate sources of fuel that release fewer emissions. READ MORE »

The November 14, 2008 issue of Community Impact Newspaper provides insight into the major topics that are likely to arise in the 2009 Texas legislative session in the article Capitol News - Texas Legislature - November 2008, by Patrick Brendel.  "Air quality" is one of the 21 topics listed: READ MORE »