EPA & Chesapeake Bay Trust Grant $400,000 For Green Jobs and Projects

Washington DC- The Environmental Protection Agency and the Chesapeake Bay Trust are funding "Green Streets, Green Jobs, and Green Towns Initiative." By authorizing $400,000 in grants, they are funding several projects for cities and nonprofit organizations throughout the Chesapeake Bay area and Pennsylvania. The initiative, also named "G3" seeks to promote and improve green infrastructure, water quality, and community health.

Recently, Dunbar High School has received $95,000 from the EPA and Chesapeake Bay Trust to build a green street. This project, titled "Green’O’vation"will be built along O Street between 1st and 3rd Streets in Washington DC.  This new street will aim to prevent flooding near the school and serve as an outdoor science class for students. Rather than stormwater and floodwater going into the streets into storm drains, the water will be filtered on-site. Biorientation cells will be designed and built to collect 39,000 gallons of water. The street will also feature more 39 more trees and 900 shrubs to collect up to 500 gallons of water, reduce the heat-island effect, and create a more beautiful, healthy living environment.

Students will have an increased exposure to environmentally-friendly initiatives with the new green street. "It’s important for [the students] to learn about any and everything that would help save our environment,” Dunbar High School Principal Stephen Jackson says.

The G3 effort is designed to reduce stormwater runoff, increase energy efficiency, and create green jobs.

The other G3 projects include:

• Cambridge, MD- $75,000 grant to create a landscaped park with native trees and vegetation. This project strives to create a greener environment and reduce stormwater runoff.
• Northumberland, PA- $30,000 to create new green infrastructure that will reduce flooding issues in residential areas.
• Low Impact Development Center, Inc- $35,000 to create zero-runoff on Arapahoe Street in Forest Heights, MD; $35,000 to create a green street in Bladensburg, MD.
• Richmond, VA- $95,000 to the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay to install a green corridor
• Prince George's County, MD- $35,000 to create cost-effective financial partnerships to build and maintain new water quality infrastructure. 

The G3 Grant Program is open to local governments and nonprofit organizations. Grants will fund green stormwater infrastructure and green jobs. For more information visit http://www.cbtrust.org/

To learn more about Stormwater Management, click here to register for a course or webinar with GreenEDU!

Palo Alto, California To Use 100% Carbon-Neutral Energy

Palo Alto Wind Turbines

Palo Alto, CA- Last Monday, Palo Alto decided to make the shift to carbon-free, renewable energy sources. Going forward, the city's energy will be derived from 100% clean, renewable energy resources. Because the city owns all of its own utilities, they will be able to make the shift without disrupting surrounding cities or shareholders. The city estimates that this will add $3 a year to energy bills for the average Palo Alto resident.

Palo Alto Mayor Greg Sharff stated, "Climate change is one of the critical challenges of our generation and we hope our actions will inspire others to follow suit."

Currently, Palo Alto derives about 50% of its energy from hydroelectricity. The city also makes use of wind turbines and solar panels.

Their plan is to have carbon-neutral electricity for the town by the end of 2013. For circumstances when renewable energy isn't enough, Palo Alto plans on buying short-term energy with the use of renewable energy certificates. These will be used to supplement long-term renewable energy resources.

Palo Alto's Carbon Neutral Plan is predicted to reduce 330,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions by 2016.

"As a City, we’ve had cheaper, greener power for our citizens for decades, and being able to make this recent move to 100% carbon-free electricity is just another example of how owning our own utilities pays off," said City Manager James Keene.

GreenEDU Trainer Spotlight: Ecosystems Environmental Services, Inc.

Ecosystems Environmental Services, Inc. provides EPA Lead Certification in Montpelier, Virginia. Motivated by environmental issues, Ecosystems Environmental Services, Inc. strives to create healthier communities by providing expert training in state of the art classrooms. They provide students with hands-on training so that students will feel ready and comfortable to perform tasks on-site. They are a leader in environmental consulting services in Virginia and assist various clients, such as schools, residential areas, and industrial companies. Ecosystems Environmental Services, Inc. makes the students a priority and offers flexible, practical training that lets students save time and money while getting training from leading providers.

GreenEDU students have given Ecosystems Environmental Services, Inc. positive feedback. James G. stated, "[The] examples and info were easy to understand and helpful," and described the trainer as "thorough in her explanations, and kept the class interesting. [She] did a great job."

Ecosystems Environmental Services currently has 6 upcoming courses in Montpelier, Virginia.

They currently offer EPA Lead Certification Initial training with GreenEDU. Anyone looking to work with lead paint must complete the required training. Ecosystems Environmental Services meets both Virginia and U.S. EPA guidelines for training.

The Lead Renovator Certification Initial course is 8 hours in length and includes both EPA-approved lead safety training and certification. Any contractor performing qualifying work must employ at least one Certified Renovator who has successfully completed this training, in addition to being registered as a Lead Safe Certified Firm with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The course concludes with a 25 question EPA-certification exam. Anyone who performs renovations, repairs, or painting in pre-1978 housing or child-occupied facilities must be EPA Lead Safe Certified. Individuals and firms that are not certified could face fines of up to $37,500 per day. This will satisfy the new requirement for individuals to attain EPA lead certification in Lead Paint Safety for Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP). Attendees who pass the certification exam will be certified as renovators to perform lead-safe work.

About Ecosystems Environmental Services, Inc. 
Ecosystems Environmental Services, Inc has provided environmental management, consulting, and field services since 1992 to include a multitude of local, state and federal agencies, as well as private residential, commercial and industrial clients. Since its incorporation, Ecosystems has made a significant impact on critical decision making for hundreds of clients nationwide. The ever-changing facets of global environmental issues prompted the establishment of Ecosystems Environmental Services, Inc in order to design and implement innovative techniques to manage environmental concerns in a safe, timely, and cost-effective manner. Our company has emerged and continues to rise as a leader in the fields of remediation, environmental and geological services; mold assessments; asbestos and lead-based paint services; indoor air quality; other industrial hygiene services, waste management; and environmental and OSHA training.

For more information and registration, please visit: http://www.greenedu.com/ecosystems-environmental-services-inc

European Investment Bank Cuts Funding for Coal-Fired Power Plants

The European Investment Bank (EIB) provides financing for the European Union and has recently announced its new policy to stop financing coal-fired power plants. This is a part of the European Union's clean energy plan to significantly reduce carbon emissions by 2030. The policy mandates that power plants that emit more than 550 grams of carbon per kilowatt-hour would no longer receive funding from the EIB.

Germany, however, did not agree with the decision and encouraged the bank to continue funding these power plants since Germany still heavily depends on energy produced by coal. After the 2011 Fukushima nuclear diaster in Japan, Germany began to shut down its own nuclear plants. They rely on coal for about 45% of their total power.

Coal Plant in China

The EIB plans to tighten its regulations within the upcoming years, pushing for 450 gCO2/kW as the EU strives to meet its carbon emissions goal.

The EIB has provided billions of euros to finance these power plants in the past and the new policy represents the EU's strict adherence to the battle against climate change.

We have seen similar policies taking shape in the United States as well, with Obama's new climate change plan. Obama posited that he would crack down on coal companies and restrict US funding of overseas coal plants. “Today, I’m calling for an end to public financing for new coal plants overseas unless they deploy carbon-capture technologies," stated Obama in his Georgetown speech. He plans on reducing carbon emissions by 3 billion metric tons by 2030.

The World Bank recently announced a major shift in how they fund energy projects. They stated they will only provide funding in "rare circumstances." The World Bank stated, "Considerations such as meeting basic energy needs in countries with no feasible alternatives to coal and a lack of financing for coal power would define such rare cases."  They are instead promoting measures to reduce carbon emissions in existing plants and seek to reduce the harmful effects of coal on a local and global scale.

The strategies of these new banks are certainly admirable but are currently facing opposition. Many of the power plants that would lose funding are overseas and located in developing nations, with poorer workers providing the labor. Coal is typically the cheapest form of energy for developing nations. If these plants were to shut down, developing nations would lose a source of power and employment.

World Bank president Jim Yong Kim made a comment about a controversial plan to build a lignite coal-fired power plant in Kosovo: "Climate change and the coal issue is one thing, but the humanitarian issue is another, and we cannot turn our backs on the people of Kosovo who face freezing to death if we don’t move in.”

While none of these policies are total bans on coal, they are steps in the correct direction and demonstrate the urgent need for a change in the way the world thinks about and uses energy.

NYC Mayor Bloomberg Promotes Stairs

New York Times Staircase- Source

New York, NY- Mayor Bloomberg has publicly supported green initiatives during his time in office, from planting half a million trees to banning super-sized sodas to encouraging transparency for public buildings' energy usage. Recently, Bloomberg has proposed the Center for Active Design, which promotes buildings where inhabitants can lead healthier and more active lives.

New York buildings stand tall and often do not have accessible staircases. These staircases are often hidden at the ends of corridors, connected to fire alarms, or simply locked. Often, employees and residents must have access cards, allowing them onto specific floors. Many staircases often have warning signs on them, confusing and discouraging people from using them. Studies show that taking the stairs for just 2 minutes a day can help prevent weight gain, so Bloomberg is now promoting building designs with accessible staircases.

He is mandating that all buildings have at least one accessible stairway and signs near the elevators showing the stairway as an alternative option. The legislation Bloomberg is proposing also includes the creation of the Center for Active Design.

The Center for Active Design has four main goals:

• Active Transportation - safe, wide sidewalks; lighting and benches; street trees and plants; interconnected bikeways; ample bicycle parking; comfortable, safe bus stops
• Active Buildings - accessible, well-lit stairs; on-site exercise facilities; access to indoor and outdoor walking trails; nearby, accessible public transit; kitchens and casual spaces to promote healthy eating
• Active Recreation - parks, plazas, and playgrounds accessible to pedestrians and bicyclists; natural elements and landscapes; safe play environments for children
• Food Access - space for full-service grocery stores; space for farmers' markets; rooftop gardens and greenhouses; visible water fountains with faucets

"New York City has been a leader when it comes to promoting healthier eating and now we’re leading when it comes to encouraging physical activity as well," stated Bloomberg. 

The goal for Mayor Bloomberg is to create a welcoming environment that encourages New York City residents to use stairs, eat healthy, and stay active. By making stairs more user-friendly and accessible, Mayor Bloomberg hopes to promote healthier lives while simultaneously decreasing New York's carbon footprint. 

GreenEDU Trainer Spotlight: The Dell Group, Inc.

The Dell Group Inc. is an Ohio-based EPA Lead Certification training company. They provide Ohio Department of Health approved Lead Abatement training and EPA Lead Certified Renovation, Repair, and Painting training. For over 24 years, they have provided customized, expert training for their clients, seeking to meet any individual needs and questions. Their upmost concern is keeping their students well informed by educating them on state and federal regulations and providing hands-on, practical training.

The Dell Group Inc. strives to provide their students with a personal, specialized experience. GreenEDU student James C. commented that the, "Instructor was very knowledgeable about material. Took time to answer all of our questions and was very patient with us even if he would cover that material later on in the course. He gave several personal examples of his work history and how it related to the material, which added a personal touch."

Joseph D. added that the instructor provided, "real world examples of how to apply [the training] in the field."

The Dell Group currently has 58 upcoming courses with GreenEDU in Toledo, Cleveland, and Akron, Ohio. They currently offer the following EPA Lead Certification courses:

• EPA Lead Certification Initial and Refresher
• Lead Inspector Certification Initial and Refresher
• Lead Risk Assessor Certification Initial and Refresher
• Lead Abatement Supervisor Initial and Refresher
• Lead Abatement Worker Initial and Refresher

Those seeking to work with Lead Paint, must meet the state and federal requirements. The EPA has issued multiple certifications required for all companies and individuals who work on projects that have lead paint present. The normal requirement for an EPA lead certification is that companies must register and pay a fee with EPA (or their local jurisdiction depending on where they are located), and individuals must take an EPA-approved lead paint training course. Those who do not take the required training courses can face government fines as high as $37,500.

One of The Dell Group's most popular courses is the EPA Lead Certification Initial course, an 8-hour course that includes both EPA-approved lead safety training and certification. Any contractor performing qualifying work must employ at least one Certified Renovator who has successfully completed this training, in addition to being registered as a Lead Safe Certified Firm with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The course concludes with a 25 question EPA-certification exam.

About The Dell Group, Inc.
Founded in 1989, The Dell Group (providing training under our non-profit division, Lead Experts) offers professional consultation and training in many areas of expertise, including safety management and training, industrial hygiene, OSHA / EPA / DOT compliance, environmental engineering and permitting, indoor air quality, lead licensing, and development of environmental management systems. We provide custom, specialized programs for manufacturers, contractors, municipalities, schools, universities and service industries. Our state-of-the-art training methodologies are field and factory proven. Instead of lectures and textbook
s, the focus is placed on hands-on, practical skill development. In addition, all training is customized to be site-specific with variable formats based on trainee experience.

To check out all available courses and to register with The Dell Group, please visit: http://www.greenedu.com/the-dell-group-inc

Top 6 Green Cities in the World

Around the world, people are embracing the need to go green. Scientists have shown that carbon parts per million has been on the steady rise in the past century and that global temperatures are increasing. They predict that we must reduce our carbon emissions by 80% by 2050 to prevent life-threatening climate change. If global temperatures continue to increase, ecosystems will collapse, farming will fail, and sea levels will rise. So what is the world doing about it?

Earthtechling did a study and found the top 6 cities in leading the green revolution are New York City, Vancouver, Copenhagen, London, Amsterdam, and Stockholm. These cities have made it a priority to reduce their carbon footprint through several means and are setting examples for other cities to follow.

New York Million Trees Program- Source

1. New York City - New York City has a population density of over 69,000 people per square mile, making it the most dense city in America. Mayor Bloomberg has lead several campaigns to reduce New York's carbon footprint. With high availability of public transportation, only 44% of New Yorkers use cars, compared with 95% of Americans. 37% of residents take public transportation to work, including walking, cycling, or taking the bus or subway. The city also operates 855 hybrid buses, making it the city with the largest electric bus fleet. Mayor Bloomberg has set a goal of planting 1 million new trees, with 500,000 already planted. He has also recently introduced the Citi Bike Share Program, with thousands of bikes being added to the city for public use. 
2. Vancouver- Vancouver is the most energy efficient city among the six leaders. They use 32.5GJ of energy per person per year (compared with 104.88GJ in Stockholm). 90% of Vancouver's energy is generated from renewable sources, mainly hydroelectric. Vancouver has also introduced a metering system that reduces water consumption by 17% per family. Vancouver residents can also receive grants of up to $3500 to install solar powered hot water systems.
3. Copenhagen- Copenhagen has recently introduced a policy that requires all new buildings to contain green roofs. Additionally, 68% of their residents take public transportation to work and has set a goal of becoming the first carbon neutral city in the world by 2025. Copenhagen is currently the leader in recycling with only 477KG of waste per capita. 55% of the waste in Copenhagen is recycled, and in 2009, only 2% of waste was sent to the landfill.
4. London- While London has not had as much success in creating a demand for green products, they have made significant bounds in traffic and carbon reduction. In 2003, London introduced a bike-share system, providing 8000 bikes for public use. This reduced traffic by 18% and currently only uses 5.84 tonnes of carbon per person. They have also introduced the "Low Emission Zone," which applies penalty fees to those driving high-emission vehicles. London plans to reduce their carbon emissions by 60% by 2025.
   
   

   

   Bikes in Amsterdam- Source

5. Amsterdam- Anyone who has ever been to Amsterdam will have noticed the surplus of bikes. There is 1 bike for every .73 people in Amsterdam, totaling over 600,000 bikes in the city. 62% of Amsterdam residents take public transportation to work. They have over 750 electric cars on the road and 350 available charging stations. Amsterdam is currently the leader in water waste reduction. Only 32.22 gallons of water are used per person per day. They have a 3.5% leakage rate, compared with 23% average leakage rate in Europe. Amsterdam has introduced a differential water pricing, making water prices different throughout the day to encourage users to spread out their water usage. 
   
   
6. Stockholm- Stockholm currently leads the world in public transportation usage, with 93% of its residents walking, cycling, or taking public transit to work. Currently, Stockholm generates 48% of its energy from hydroelectric sources. They also lead the world by having the lowest carbon emissions- only 3.62 tonnes per person. They have set a goal of reducing carbon emissions by 17% by 2015, with no more than 3 tonnes of carbon per capita. 

GreenEDU Partners with Professional Training Associates

Professional Training Associates has recently partnered with GreenEDU. They have provided their services for over 15 years and offer their courses in both Duquesne, Pennsylvania and Morgantown, West Virginia. Their instructors are experts in the field and have worked in a variety of sectors in health and environmental consulting. We are excited to partner with Professional Training Associates and expand their reach. Their classes will help students get real, applicable instruction that will assist them in their professional lives.

Professional Training Associates has 78 upcoming events with GreenEDU in both Pennsylvania and West Virginia. They offer a variety of courses in asbestos, lead certification, OSHA, and HAZWOPER training. Some of their courses include:

• HAZWOPER 40 Hours
• Asbestos Contractor/Supervisor
• Asbestos Worker/Handler
• OSHA 30-Hour Construction Industry
• EPA Lead Abatement Worker Certification Initial

They provide certification in multiple disciplines in each field of work. Additionally, they also provide required refresher courses for those seeking recertification. 

Their most popular courses are Asbestos Contractor/Supervisor and Asbestos Worker/Handler. The Asbestos Contractor/Supervisor training is for any individual who performs supervision of persons permitted to enter the restricted and regulated asbestos abatement work area. The supervisor is also responsible for performing the duties of the OSHA competent person for the asbestos project, consistent with current EPA and OSHA regulations. The Asbestos Worker/Handler course is designed for anyone who, within a work area, removes, encapsulates or disturbs friable asbestos, or who handles asbestos material in any manner which may result in the release of asbestos fiber on an asbestos abatement project. 

Training for asbestos abatement professionals is required under the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act of 1986 (AHERA). Get certified to work with asbestos! 

About Professional Training Associates, Inc.
Founded in 1998, Professional Training Associates, Inc (PTA) is a leading provider of environmental health and safety training. We focus primarily on the Region 3 area, but we also conduct courses both nationally and internationally. Our principal areas of concentration are OSHA and EPA required courses such as those governing asbestos and lead activities. Our other subjects include HAZWOPER, RCRA, and DOT, among others.

To register for a course with Professional Training Associates, visit http://www.greenedu.com/professional-training-associates-inc

GreenEDU Trainer Spotlight: FD and Associates Environmental

FD and Associates Environmental provides EPA Lead Certification in Omaha, Nebraska. They are a leader in the Midwest in environmental consulting and have provided their services to the public since 1995. They are a minority and veteran-owned business and their employees are licensed consultants who have all of the necessary training and certification as well as the hands on experience to provide students with unparalleled training.

Since 1995, FD and Associates Environmental has seen tremendous growth. Their clients include government agencies, contractors, businesses, insurance companies, and homeowners. Their experienced and dedicated team provides excellent customer service which is what has allowed FD and Associates to experience such success. They strive to provide more than just certification and want to go beyond minimum requirements by giving students useful, applicable education and instruction.

GreenEDU students provided feedback for FD and Associates Environmental, and the training company has received 5/5 stars. Ryan B. commented about the course he took: "[The instructor] was very good at showing us and instructing us about the details required in working with lead paint. He got everyone involved and kept up the class motivation for the entire course day."

FD and Associates Environmental currently has an upcoming EPA Lead Renovators Certification Initial course in Omaha.


As of April 22, 2010, anyone who performs renovations, repairs, or painting in pre-1978 housing or child-occupied facilities must be EPA Lead Safe Certified. Individuals and firms that are not certified could face fines of up to $37,500 per day.

The Lead Renovator Certification Initial course is 8 hours in length and includes both EPA-approved lead safety training and certification. Any contractor performing work on pre-1978 homes or child-occupied facilities must employ at least one Certified Renovator who has successfully completed this training. Companies must also be registered as a Lead Safe Certified Firm with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The course concludes with a 25 question exam.


About FD and Associates Environmental
As one of the premiere environmental companies in the Midwest region, FD and Associates Environmental offers a broad range of environmental services to meet your needs. We use state of the art equipment to ensure full compliance with all applicable regulations and to minimize the opportunity for error. We are also proud to offer Lead Renovator training for companies and individuals seeking to enhance or learn the skills of effectively working with lead lead safe work practices.

New Budget Bill Will Reduce Funding of Lead Poisoning Prevention

House of Representatives

This past March, the House passed a bill proposed by Republican House Representative Paul Ryan. The bill proposed a cut of overall domestic spending, and as the House writes bills for the upcoming fiscal year, they are cutting programs and changing the allocation of their spending. The House plans to shift spending to defense programs, and with these budget cuts, they are cutting programs that fund lead poisoning prevention.

Exposure to lead has severe health risks in children and adults. Children exposed to even very low levels of lead can experience drops in average intelligence and social and behavioral problems. Adults exposed to lead have been found to have higher blood pressure and seizures. Lead poisoning has even been found to lead to criminal behavior. Due to these health and educational risks associated with lead, it is estimated that lead exposure costs the world $977 in GDP a year.

Lead paint was banned in 1978, but many homes still suffer from lead paint hazards. Budget cuts would be detrimental to important lead removal programs. Republicans plan to balance the budget with this bill and create a "healthier economy and help create jobs," yet the health risks associated with lead poisoning may lead to costly effects in the long run. According to a National Institute of Health study, "For every dollar spent on controlling lead hazards, $17–$221 would be returned in health benefits, increased IQ, higher lifetime earnings, tax revenue, reduced spending on special education, and reduced criminal activity.” This means that if Congress were to cut $6 million from lead poisoning prevention programs, it would cost society $102 million to over $1 billion.

These cuts would severely affect lower-income Americans, as the homes they live in often still have lead paint. It is estimated that despite the ban in 1978, about 3/4 of homes still contain this hazardous substance. Additionally, the budget bill will cut community development and housing spending. These cuts prevent new transportation systems from being constructed and from affordable homes from being built.

The House plans on supporting the Department of Defense with these new budget cuts. The consequences of their actions will have detrimental effects on the health of both children and adults nationwide. The Senate has proposed a contrasting plan, with full replacement of budget cuts for lead poisoning programs. The Senate proposal has received bipartisan support. In September, the House and the Senate will pass new budget bills for the upcoming fiscal year. Congress and the President will have the power to promote the health and education of our future if they take into consideration the serious, persistent risk of lead poisoning. 

The EPA requires certification to work with or remove lead paint. Register for a course with GreenEDU and become certified!

Green Education Services is one of the leading training providers for the EPA's Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule, which targets pre-1978 residential homes and requires companies and their workers to be certified to work safely with lead-based paint that may be present in the home. You can follow this link to all of our EPA Lead Renovators courses around the country, and do your part to combat this epidemic.

GreenEDU Partners with The Academy of Textiles and Flooring

Anaheim, CA- Recently, The Academy of Textiles and Flooring joined the GreenEDU Training Network. The Academy has provided services to the public for over 40 years and provides Construction and Cleaning and Restoration training in California. They are passionate about providing students with the education that will allow them to pursue professional careers in environmental consulting. They truly value learning and pride themselves on their attention and dedication to the customer. We are excited to work with The Academy of Textiles and Flooring and believe this partnership will allow for the continuing success and growth of their company.

Currently The Academy of Textiles and Flooring has 12 upcoming courses with GreenEDU in the cleaning and restoration training category, including training approved by the Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). They offer multiple courses in Anaheim, California including: 

• IICRC Water Damage Restoration Technician
• IICRC Applied Microbial Remediation Technician
• IICRC Carpet Cleaning Technician
• IICRC Odor Control Technician
• IICRC Resilient Flooring Inspector
• Xactimate 27 Basic Level 1 and 2

They offer their courses on a number of days to meet the unique needs of their students. Their most popular course is the Water Damage Restoration Technician course. This course is designed to teach restoration personnel that perform remediation work to give them a better concept of water damage, its effects and techniques for drying of structures. This course will give residential and commercial maintenance personnel the background to understand the procedures necessary to deal with water losses, sewer backflows, and contamination such as mold. Check out all of the available courses with The Academy of Textiles and Flooring!

About The Academy of Textiles and Flooring

At The Academy of Textiles and Flooring, we believe that all students are capable of achieving success in learning and contributing to the welfare of a diverse and interdependent world. Our mission to to have students that leave our school with the self-esteem that comes from a genuine sense of accomplishment and with a wide range of career and educational opportunities available to them. In order to attain this goal, our school provides a climate that promotes clear expectations of high academic achievement and fosters responsibility, self-reliance and creativity; enhances the personal, ethical, civic and cultural development of all students; emphasizes the joy of learning so that enthusiasm for knowledge becomes a life-long pursuit; and encourages mutual trust, respect, and support among all members of the floor-covering educational community with the sense that we are working toward the common purpose of bringing this mission to life.

View all of The Academy of Textiles and Flooring IICRC classes in California at http://www.greenedu.com/the-academy-of-textiles-and-flooring

California Seeks $1 Billion from Paint Industry For Lead Paint Hazards

Lead Paint

San Jose, CA -- Ten cities and counties in California are suing the powerful paint industry for $1 billion for the hazards that lead paint has caused. California began the lawsuit in 2000 and the trial was postponed several times due to objections from the paint industry, but now appeals courts have allowed the lawsuit to go forward. The trial began this week in San Jose, CA.

The California cities, including San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles, and Oakland among others, are suing the paint industry for knowingly selling harmful products since the 1890s. Lead poisoning has been found to have serious health risks for children, leading to learning disabilities, seizures, and even death.

California officials are suing paint makers for violating the state's public nuisance laws because lead paint has created "a substantial and unreasonable injury" to those living and working in older homes and facilities.

Lead poisoning is still a global problem, and despite the industry arguing that lead poisoning is no longer a significant risk in California, many low-income families live in older homes and still suffer from lead poisoning. Children who were surveyed in areas were found to have high blood lead levels. Homes built before 1978 often contain lead paint, and California is seeking $1 billion from the paint industry in order to remove and clean up the hazard. "It's all about fixing the problem," said Joseph Cotchett, a Burlingame lawyer representing the counties. If California wins the case, there will be increased demand for lead abatement contractors in the participating cities and counties to continue to combat lead hazards in residential properties.

The manufacturers on trial include several companies such as Sherwin-Williams, Atlantic Richfield, and NL Industries. The judge is hearing the case without a jury. Manufacturers are stating that they didn't know the risks of leaded paint and would not knowingly sell a harmful product to consumers. They also argue that removing lead paint will cause harmful lead dust to enter the air and pose health risks to children.

Additionally, they argue that hindsight from the prosecution is unnecessary and that the removal of lead paint from stores and homes should be a public health success story rather than a lawsuit. However, local officials argue that lead paint is still a persistent problem in their communities, with 3.5 million homes in California still at risk.

"We've had a lot of success," Julie Twichell, an official with Alameda County's lead poison prevention program, said to San Jose Mercury News. "But there is still a lot of work to do."

Learn more about lead paint abatement, and how to become a lead abatement contractor by visiting GreenEDU.com or calling 1-800-355-1751.

OSHA and Hazwoper Trainer Environmental Resource Center Joins GreenEDU Network

Environmental Resource Center has recently joined GreenEDU's network of health and environmental consulting services. We are excited to work with Environmental Resource Center as they have 63 upcoming events in 27 different locations. They have provided OSHA/Construction, Hazardous Materials, and Stormwater and Water Management training for over 32 years and continue to offer outstanding service to their students. Environmental Resource Center strives to meet the needs of all of their students by providing webcasts and on-site training for larger groups. Environmental Resource Center has employees who have previously worked as environmental consultants and have hands-on experience to provide students with applicable instruction.

Environmental Resource Center provides training in multiple locations including:

• North Carolina
• South Carolina
• Georgia
• Florida
• Texas
• Ohio
• Alabama
• Virginia
• Pennsylvania
• California
• Illinois
• Delaware

They currently provide Hazardous Materials training in these locations. Their upcoming courses include:

• HAZWOPER 40 Hour
• HAZWOPER 24 Hour
• HAZWOPER Refresher
• DOT HAZMAT Transportation
• RCRA Hazardous Waste Management
• Environmental, Health, and Safety Laws and Regulations

One of Environmental Resource Center's most popular courses is RCRA Hazardous Waste Management. This course will teach you how to properly identify, accumulate, minimize, and ship hazardous waste. You will learn how to develop a contingency plan and how to comply with land disposal restrictions. The course provides an in-depth look at the latest regulatory requirements, waste exemptions and exclusions, new universal waste requirements, VOC standards for hazardous waste generators, and waste minimization. This course is recommended for waste generators of all sizes as well as consultants that work on contaminated project sites. Check out all of the available courses and locations!

About Environmental Resource Center
Environmental Resource Center is a full-service environmental, health, safety, and transportation consulting firm. Since 1981, they have served the needs of industry, academia, and federal and state government agencies by providing high-quality safety and environmental consulting services. They offer a variety of seminars, including all required EPA hazardous waste management training and DOT hazardous materials training. Their goal is to help you to effectively comply with EPA, DOT, IATA and OSHA regulations.

For more information, visit http://www.greenedu.com/environmental-resource-center.

Shaheen-Portman Energy Effiency Bill Receives Bipartisan Support

Bipartisan sponsorship is no guarantee of success as seen as the Shaheen-Portman energy efficiency bill struggles to pass in the House of Representatives. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Rob Portman(R-Ohio) created an energy efficiency bill last year that received positive feedback and widespread support; however, the only thing halting the success of this bill are the amendments lawmakers are trying to attach to it. These laws concern controversial topics of climate change, the Keystone XL Pipeline, ethanol, and several others. The bill has not yet been schedule for floor debate, for Shaheen and Portman are still deciding which amendments may be detrimental to the success of this bill in the Senate. 

Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Rob Portman

The Shaheen-Portman bill is also known as Energy Savings and Industrial Competitiveness Act. The bill works to create energy efficiency in buildings, the manufacturing sector, and federal facilities. It seeks to lower energy costs for both producers and consumers and boost the nation's economic competitiveness while minimizing the United States' carbon footprint.

The bill has undergone many revisions in the past year with several amendments being dropped including the removal of a building loan program. However, several additions have been made. The Secretary of Energy will now be charged with providing grants to states to promote energy efficiency in the private sector and commercial buildings. Additionally, new measures have been added to promote energy efficiency in buildings by creating stronger building energy codes, providing rebates for energy efficient equipment, and creating new efficiency requirements for federal agencies.

The bill seeks to reduce the federal deficit by reducing energy costs across several economic sectors and strives to improve the environment, so it's no wonder why it has received bipartisan support. The bill is also expected to create additional jobs for energy research, development, and commercialization of new technology. Additionally, the federal government is the largest energy consumer in the nation, and by creating stricter regulations for these agencies, the bill is expected to reduce the deficit and save taxpayers' money. Senator Portman commented on the bill, stating: "Washington can seem pretty divided these days, but there are some things on which we can all agree. This bill is one of them – it’s good for the economy and good for the environment. By making it easier for employers to use energy efficient tools, we are helping them to reduce their costs, enabling them to put those savings toward expanding their companies and hiring new workers."

It is estimated that if the Shaheen-Portman bill were to pass, it would save 9.5 quadrillion Btu's (British Thermal Units) by 2030. This is equivalent to about 1/10 of the United States' annual energy usage, and while lawmakers are quick to amend the bill, Senators Shaheen and Portman are trying to limit these unrelated changes. If lawmakers can work together, then the bill should pass for Senate consideration soon.

SmartPros Ltd. Joins GreenEDU Network

GreenEDU is excited to announce a new partnership with SmartPros Ltd., a provider of online courses for OSHA and Construction training, EPA Lead Certification, Asbestos Certification, and Hazardous Materials training. SmartPros has provided its services for over 32 years and now offers a variety of online courses that can be taken at the convenience of the student. We are excited to work with SmartPros Ltd. as they recognize that the individual needs of students cannot always be met with in-person training, and therefore, have expanded their reach by providing courses that can be taken at anytime from the comfort of your home.

SmartPros Ltd. currently has 30 available training courses with GreenEDU and provides a number of courses online that can be taken anytime at your convenience. Some of these courses include:

• Laboratory Safety Procedures
• Chemical Spill and Control Procedures
• Lead Awareness Guidelines
• First Aid and CPR Principles
• Asbestos Awareness Guidelines 
• OSHA Fall Protection
• Electrical Hazard Procedures
• View All Available Classes

SmartPros Ltd. also offers an OSHA Investigations and Inspections Online course. The moment OSHA inspectors arrive to perform an investigation is not the time to get your house in order. Compliance with OSHA regulations requires planning, preparation, training, follow-up, and review. This course teaches management, supervisors, safety professionals, human resources professionals, and others in your organization what to expect and how to properly respond when inspected by OSHA. 

Students taking this course will learn how to recognize what prompts an OSHA regulation, prepare for OSHA inspections, respond to OSHA-related questions, and learn legal proceedings and documentation. Managers, supervisors, and employees in all organizations subject to OSHA inspections and investigations should take this course. The course can be taken online at anytime when you sign up with GreenEDU! 

About SmartPros Ltd. 
Established in 1981, SmartPros (NASDAQ-CM: SPRO) is a leading provider of accredited professional education and training to Fortune 500 companies, as well as the major firms and associations in its professional markets. Our combined subscription libraries feature more than 2,000 course titles covering subjects in the accounting, financial services, legal & ethics, HR & compliance, engineering, health & safety and information technology industries. SmartPros' content is delivered via its award-winning SmartPros eCampusTM Learning Management System (LMS), offering enterprise-wide distribution and administration capabilities for corporations and associations.

To sign up for an online anytime course with SmartPros Ltd. visit http://www.greenedu.com/smartpros-ltd

Wisconsin Recognition of Lead Paint Test Kits

Many renovation, repair and painting activities disturb painted surfaces and can create lead dust exposure hazards.  When undertaking this type of work in a home or child-occupied facility built before 1978, the renovator must either assume the painted surfaces to be disturbed contain lead-based paint or accurately identify the presence or absence of lead-based paint.  

A lead-safe renovator may use a recognized test kit to test for the presence of lead in paint only if requested to do so by the property owner.  Paint chip sampling and paint testing using an XRF analyzer may only be performed by certified lead risk assessors or inspectors in the state of Wisconsin.

Wisconsin-Recognized Lead Test Kits

3M™LeadCheck™

Recognized as of June 27, 2012

You can order Lead Check swabs from Green Education Services by following this link. 

Under s. DHS 163.02 (2), Approved Alternative to an Administrative Requirement, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services recognizes that the 3M™ LeadCheck™ test kit complies with the negative response criteria of the lead-safe renovation rule.  The Department has determined that recognition under the negative response criteria alone is as protective of human health and the environment as the original requirement at s. DHS 163.16 to meet both the negative and positive response criteria.

ESCA Tech D-Lead® Paint Test Kit, also sold as Klean-Strip® Paint Test Kit

Recognized as of July 15, 2013

Under s. DHS 163.02 (2), Approved Alternative to an Administrative Requirement, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services recognizes that the ESCA Tech D-Lead paint test kit complies with the negative response criteria of the lead-safe renovation rule.  The Department has determined that recognition under the negative response criteria alone is as protective of human health and the environment as the original requirement at s. DHS 163.16 to meet both the negative and positive response criteria.

Requirements for Using a Wisconsin-Recognized Lead Test Kit:

1.    Only a certified lead-safe renovator may use a recognized lead test kit.

2.    Paint testing may only be performed at the request of the property owner or person contracting for services.

3.    The recognized paint test kit is limited to use on paint or other coatings on wood, ferrous metal (alloys that contain iron), drywall or plastersubstrates. 

Note:  The Wisconsin standard for lead-based paint is a lead content in paint or other coating that is more than 0.7 milligrams per square centimeter (mg/cm²) or more than 0.06% lead by weight.

4.    The certified lead-safe renovator must follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using the recognized paint test kit.

NOTE: Before using the 3M™ LeadCheck™ paint test kit on PLASTER AND DRYWALL. The updated procedure for testing plaster and drywall is slightly different than the procedure used previously. 3M™ LeadCheck™ test kits shipped to retail outlets after April 1, 2012, contain the updated instructions.  Kits purchased prior to April 1, 2012, or that contain the older instructions can still be used but the user must follow the updated instructions when testing plaster and drywall.  

5.    Each distinct component and surface to be disturbed must be tested separately with unused testing materials. 

Examples:  A single window system may require the use of 10 or more swabs to test all components of the window, including interior sill, apron, window well, exterior sill, interior sash and muntins, exterior sash and muntins, interior window casing, window jamb, interior stop, exterior stop, and exterior framing.  In a room, each wall is considered a separate surface.  A wall split by a chair rail requires one lead check swab for the area below the chair rail and a separate swab to test above the chair rail.  Chair rails, baseboards and crown moldings on each wall need to be tested separately. 

6.    Test only the components that will be disturbed during the renovation project.

7.    Maintain a record of the manufacturer and model of each test kit used, verification that the test kit is recognized by the department, a description of each component tested, including the specific location, and the result for each location and test kit used. 

8.    Provide the written lead test kit report to the person contracting for the work within 10 days of completing the renovation activities.

Wisconsin Regulations for Lead Test Kit Use

Wisconsin Administrative Code, Ch. DHS 163, describes the criteria lead test kits must meet to be recognized and the conditions for their use in detecting regulated levels of lead in paint prior to starting a renovation activity.

DHS 163.14 (11) (p) Use of paint test kits. When requested by the party contracting for renovation services, the certified renovator may use only a department-recognized paint test kit to determine whether components and surfaces to be affected by the renovation activities contain lead-based paint. The certified renovator shall test each distinct component and surface to be affected, follow the manufacturer's instructions for use of the paint test kit, and document and maintain the records required under s. DHS 163.13 (3) (c) 10.

DHS 163.13 (3) (c) 10. If a recognized test kit is used, the company shall maintain records of, and, within 10 working days of completing renovation activities, provide identifying information to, the person who contracted for the work as to the manufacturer and model of each test kit used, verification that the test kit is recognized by the department, a description of the components tested, including their specific locations, and the result for each location and test kit used.

DHS 163.16 Recognized paint test kits for renovation.

    DHS 163.16(1)(1) EPA verification program.The department recognizes paint test kits that have been tested and determined by the EPA Environmental Technology Verification Program, or other equivalent EPA approved testing program, to meet the response criteria described in this section.

    DHS 163.16(2)(2) Response criteria. A recognized test kit shall meet or exceed both the negative response criteria and the positive response criteria, as follows:

    DHS 163.16(2)(a)(a) Negative response criteria. For paint containing lead at or above the regulated level, 0.7 milligrams per square centimeter or .06% by weight, a demonstrated probability, with 95% confidence, of a negative response less than or equal to 5% of the time.

    DHS 163.16(2)(b)(b) Positive response criteria. For paint containing lead below the regulated level, 0.7 milligrams per square centimeter or .06% by weight, a demonstrated probability, with 95% confidence, of a positive response less than or equal to 10% of the time.

    DHS 163.16(3)(3) If a test kit meets the response criteria under subs. (2) the department will issue a notice of recognition to the kit manufacturer and post the information on the department's website.

DHS 163.02 (2).  Approved Alternative to an Administrative Requirement.

The department may approve an alternative to any administrative requirement in this chapter that is not a statutory requirement when the department is provided with satisfactory written proof that the alternative is as protective of human health and the environment as the original requirement. A request for approval of an alternative shall be in writing, shall be sent to the department and shall include justification for the alternative. The department shall approve or deny the alternative or request additional information within 20 working days of receipt of the request for approval. If granted, the department shall send the applicant a written notice of approval that may include limits on the approval.  [underline added]

Link Between Lead and Murder Rates Found

Lead Paint Peeling

The murder rate in the United States is at an all time low. Many people often attribute this to aggressive urban crime policies, decrease in drug usage, economic fluctuations, or the legalization of abortion. However, many of these theories do not correlate with the rise and fall of crime rates in America in both urban and rural areas. Rick Nevin, an economic consultant for the National Center of Healthy Housing and author of "Why Is the Murder Rate Lower in New York City," found that there was a strong correlation between murder rates and the use of lead in gasoline and in lead-based paint.

Experts often view crime as an epidemic. Professor Karl Smith, Professor of Public Economics and Government at University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, stated, "I believe – for epidemics economic, biological or social is this: If it spreads along lines of communication its entropic information. If it travels along major transportation routes its microbial. If it spreads out like a fan, its an arthropod. If its everywhere, all at once, its a molecule." So, what is this molecule that Nevin speculated was the cause for decreases in crime? Lead.

People often think of urban cities as prime locations for robbery, murder, and rape, yet in the early 1990's in New York City, even before Mayor Rudy Giuliani's aggressive policies against crime, violent crime rates began to drop. And they kept dropping all around the nation. Since the 1990s, crime rates in New York City have dropped 75%. Washington DC's crime rates dropped 58%; Dallas 70%; Los Angeles 78%. But why? These cities did not practice the same strategic efforts as Mayor Giuliani, and despite economic fluctuations, crime continued to decline around the nation.

Nevin pointed out that exposure to lead in early childhood years may have caused violent and abnormal behavior in adults. After WWII, automobile sales boomed, and drivers would use leaded gasoline. The EPA did not ban lead in paint in homes until 1978, and during the 1970's, gasoline companies began replacing leaded gasoline with unleaded. Experts found that crime rates in urban areas were higher, and Nevin speculated that this was due to high automobile emissions in an extremely small, dense setting. People in cities were more likely to be exposed to the harmful gases emitted by cars using leaded gasoline. Children who were exposed to this harmful gas had high blood lead levels and experienced a number of health effects later on in life, such as lower IQ, antisocial behavior, and violent tendencies. Nevin hypothesized that the effects of lead had a 20 year lag, so young children exposed to lead would show this behavior in their early adult life.

So when lead was banned in the 1970s, cities and towns around the nation saw declines in crime in the 1990s. Nevin found that the curves for the rise and fall of both crime and leaded gasoline and paint perfectly correlated if given the 20 year lag.

Nevin found that this trend was not unique to the United States. He surveyed nations around the world and saw the same pattern in Australia, Canada, Germany, France, and several others. Tulane University researcher Howard Mielke even studied this trend at a local neighborhood level and found that neighborhoods with high concentrations of lead also had high crime rates.

Environmental regulations are necessary, not just to reduce global temperatures or to create more cost-effective buildings. They have a real impact, and they influence the society we live in, creating healthier lives for our children and safer places to live.

The EPA requires certification to work with or remove lead paint. Register for a course with GreenEDU and become certified!

Green Education Services is one of the leading training providers for the EPA's Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule, which targets pre-1978 residential homes and requires companies and their workers to be certified to work safely with lead-based paint that may be present in the home. You can follow this link to all of our EPA Lead Renovators courses around the country, and do your part to combat this epidemic.

GreenEDU Trainer Spotlight: Think People

Rockford, IL- Think People Inc. has provided EPA Lead Certification training in Illinois for over 22 years. With a knowledgable, driven team, Think People Inc. always provides the best customer service and training for its clients. They expect the best out of their clients and in turn provide the best to all of their students. As a proud family oriented business, Think People Inc. strives to give back to the community that has supported them by providing training to keep the public safe from harm. They provide applicable, hands-on training with enthusiasm and expertise to guarantee a fun, informative training experience.

GreenEDU students have praised the training received from Think People Inc. "[The instructor] kept the class going all day without a lull, very hard to do," said Scott D. "She kept to the point and made sure everyone understood the concepts through discussion and hands on exercises. I would recommend her class to anyone." Cory C. described the training as "Excellent and very informative teaching. I liked the fact that the instructor had an extensive knowledge of the building and remodeling industry." Gary R. enjoyed the course and said the instructor had, "Great energy, easy communication."

Think People Inc. currently has 10 upcoming courses with GreenEDU for EPA Lead Renovators Certification Initial training. As of April 22, 2010, anyone who performs renovations, repairs, or painting in pre-1978 housing or child-occupied facilities must be EPA Lead Safe Certified. Individuals and firms that are not certified could face fines of up to $37,500 per day.

This course is taught by one of the accredited instructors at Think People Inc. and is 8 hours in length. It provides both EPA-approved lead safety training and certification at the end of the course. Any contractor performing qualifying work must employ at least one Certified Renovator who has successfully completed this training, in addition to being registered as a Lead Safe Certified Firm with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The course concludes with a 25 question EPA-certification exam. In-house training can also be requested for companies with larger groups.

Along with EPA Lead Certification training, Think People Inc. continues to reach out to the community and provide support by offering work programs for children, fundraising projects, free advertising for local businesses, rental unit sales, and motivational speaking. This well-rounded company demonstrates their enthusiasm and care for the public through its various programs and continues to be a leading training provider in Rockford, Illinois.

About Think People Inc.
Think People Inc. is a family oriented, multi-faceted, Illinois-based corporation. They have been doing business in Illinois for over 22 years, and their goal has always been to give back to our community. They offer work programs for kids and parents, motivational speaking workshops, and EPA Lead RRP training for contractors, painters, and home renovators. As a company that expects the best from those they do business with, they are in turn dedicated to providing the same level of greatness to their customers.

For more information or to register for a course, please visit http://www.greenedu.com/think-people-inc

Aruba to Run on 100% Sustainable Energy by 2020

Aruba 

Aruba, a 70 square mile island in the Southern Caribbean Sea, is set to run on 100% sustainable energy by 2020. Due to the island's constant supply of sun, strong wind, and ocean currents, it is a prime location for research and testing for renewable energy. Aruba seeks to completely eliminate fossil fuels from its society within the next decade, creating a healthier, greener community. Sustainability efforts have transformed from small campaigns to a country-wide effort.

Tourists and travelers believe that the hotels and resorts on the island should be 100% responsible for the damage they cause to the environment. Six resorts on the island are certified by Earthcheck, an international certification alliance for tourism and travel. Eight more resorts are on the path to achieve certification soon. Locals have allied themselves with travelers and promoted the Aruba Reef Care Project, Aruba's largest environmental volunteer organization that strives to create cleaner reefs and beaches.

Currently The Vader Piet Windmill Farm on the northern side of the island supplies 20% of the island's energy. Aruba plans on creating a second wind farm by 2020, doubling the amount of wind-supplied energy and reducing their carbon footprint. Additionally, an partnership between Aruba and Carbon War Room has been announced and plans to reduce Aruba's overall greenhouse gas emissions.

This method of thinking has given rise to an unparalleled commitment to the environment on the island, and they plan on setting an example for other countries to follow in the future.

About Aruba
As one of the most revisited destinations in the Caribbean, Aruba -- One Happy Island -- is an island of contradictions, where pristine turquoise waters collide against the desert-like terrain of the north shore; where peace and relaxation coexist with wild and rugged adventures; where Dutch influence meets American ease; and where a diverse history parallels a bright future. Nestled in the Southern Caribbean on the fringes of the hurricane belt, the island is just a two-and-a-half hour flight from Miami and a four-hour flight from New York City and also boasts year-round cooling trade winds and an average 82 degree temperature. Aruba offers beach lovers, adrenaline junkies, relaxation seekers and everyone in between a slice of paradise, including breathtaking beaches, a booming culinary scene, world famous festivals and events, exciting land and water activities, art galleries and museums, sumptuous spas, championships golf and exclusive shopping. With all-inclusive resorts, boutique hotels in charming Eagle Beach, high-rise branded hotels in Palm Beach or a cosmopolitan city hotel in Oranjestad, the island of contradictions provides the perfect getaway for first-time guests and loyal visitors.

Lead Exposure Costs $977 Billion Globally

Lead Exposure from Lead Paint

According to a recent study performed by New York University researchers, Professors Leonardo Trasande and Teresa Attina, lead exposure costs the world $977 billion US dollars in low and middle-income countries. Due to loss in IQ and productivity, lead exposure has caused economic losses of $134.7 billion in Africa, $142.3 billion in Latin America, and $699.9 billion in Asia.

Only six countries in the world still use leaded gasoline after aggressive efforts by the United Nations. Children would inhale or ingest lead from combusted gasoline in urban environments, leading to high blood lead levels and dangerous health effects. Despite declines in blood lead levels worldwide, and ongoing efforts to remove hazardous substances from homes and facilities, lead exposure still affects low and middle-income countries.

The study shows that lead exposure accounts for a 1.2% loss in the world's gross domestic product. High blood lead levels have been linked to lower IQ, loss in attention span, and violent and anti-social behavior. Decreasing lead exposure would have beneficial economic effects in the long-run according to the report. Lead batteries, lead-based paint, and hazardous waste are still prevalent in low and middle-income areas. Transande reported that due to this loss in economic productivity, Africa has lost 4% of its total GDP.

Transande and Attina performed the study on children younger than 5 in developing countries and then determined how much lead levels would reduce IQ and earnings. They found that early childhood exposure to lead resulted in lower lifetime productivity and behavioral changes.

The researchers had to estimate many of the numbers, but Bruce Lanphear, professor of children's environmental health at Simon Fraser University and a researcher of lead-exposure, commented that the loss in earnings is likely conservative, for Transande and Attina only measured the effects in children and did not account for criminal activity and health problems in working adults. Additionally, they only researched children in urban environments as developing countries are experiencing rapid urbanization. This urbanization has correlated with spikes in lead levels in Africa.

Despite this, investors view these developing countries as profitable markets, and are hesitant to put environmental efforts before economic earnings. The US Center for Disease Control reported that reduced lead exposure in the United States since 1976 has resulted in hundreds of billions of dollars in economic benefits due to higher IQs and higher worker productivity. For the US and Europe, economics costs have been estimated at $50.9 and $55 billion respectively, implying that developing areas are still burdened by this environmental and health hazard. Investment in lead paint control leads to a higher return on investment; however, Lanphear commented that unless we continue to work to reduce lead levels in these countries then, "We're basically pitting the health of our children versus economic health. Until we can prove it's cost beneficial to protect kids, we won't do it."

This economic burden could be avoided if policy interventions to prevent lead exposure are implemented immediately. The cost of these policies would lead to higher long-run productivity and profitability for these developing countries, resulting in higher growth and GDP. If government entities do not act, then these countries will continue to bear the burden of these health hazards, and they will continue to suffer health and economic losses.

The US EPA requires certification to work with and remove lead paint. Register for a course to become certified with GreenEDU!

Green Education Services is one of the leading training providers for the EPA's Renovation, Repair, and Painting Rule, which targets pre-1978 residential homes and requires companies and their workers to be certified to work safely with lead-based paint that may be present in the home. You can follow this link to all of our EPA Lead Renovators courses around the country, and do your part to combat this epidemic.

3 Ways Businesses Can Combat Climate Change

Greenhouse Gases in Parts Per Million in the Atmosphere by Year

While the government has recently taken on steps to combat climate change, such as Obama's controversial plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, is this really enough to make a difference? Many companies now are publicly making efforts to "go green," by installing efficient heating and cooling systems, adding rooftop gardens, and promoting recycling and waste reduction. In places like New York, public buildings must report their energy use and waste on a scorecard. However, while these efforts are certainly admirable, companies are not seriously addressing the problem of climate change. Scientists predict that within the next century, due to greenhouse gas emissions, global temperatures will rise by 6°C (10.8°F), leading to catastrophic changes to our planet--from crop failures to melting glaciers to the deterioration of ecosystems. So what can businesses do to create a more sustainable future?

Here's how corporations can positively influence climate change:

1. Lobbying is one of the most effective methods to inspire change within the government. The government is undoubtably influenced by corporations, and businesses serious about going green and reducing their impact on the environment must focus their efforts on inspiring government change. Corporations donate hundreds of thousands of dollars a year to sway government opinion and should encourage the government to impose stricter laws that will reduce our carbon footprint. Businesses must realize that any change to the environment can and will effect their success. Starbucks, for example, has publicly posted ads to spread awareness about climate change while also lobbying the government since climate change will have a profound impact on the coffee plant and industry.
2. Promoting environmentally conscious policies also demonstrates a company's genuine concern for climate change. If companies are inconsistent in their stance, such as publicly promoting the environment while supporting government policies that undermine it, then not only will the public notice, but no real change can be made. Rather than thinking about their business in the short run, corporations should strive to think about long run benefits of combating climate change.
3. Encouraging suppliers to change their stance on climate change is also an effective way of making a real impact. If companies require their suppliers to report and reduce their carbon emissions and waste, then suppliers will have to meet their demand and follow their lead. Walmart has created a plan to create transparency in their supply chain, revealing where products are sourced and how they are manufactured. Walmart executives plan on working closely with suppliers to guarantee that their goods are being produced in an environmentally-conscious way. And while Walmart plans on reducing their carbon emissions by 20 million metric tons by 2015, an extremely impressive plan, they must further increase the pressure on the suppliers to change. Other corporations should follow this plan and be serious with their efforts. Without real pressure from companies, there will be no incentive for suppliers to change their production methods. 

Companies can help promote sustainability if they become serious in their efforts. Additionally, they should market their efforts and make it known to the public what is being done to combat the real problem of climate change. Consumers tend to prefer companies that are environmentally-conscious, so these efforts will not go unnoticed. By creating transparency for this global problem, and presenting real, applicable solutions, businesses can make a real impact on the world and help reverse a problem that the government and the public cannot tackle alone. 

For more information on corporate sustainability, check out GreenEDU's online Corporate Sustainability Manger courses!