Empty, partially filled, and mostly filled plastic water bottles remain long after outdoor events are over. It’s hard to determine how many are actually recycled and how much water is wasted. (Joanna Detz/ecoRI News)
All of Rhode Island’s programs, initiatives, and goals are well-meaning actions, but without concrete efforts backing them up, they won’t stem the tide of plastic pollution in any significant manner.
Composting toilets come in many shapes and sizes depending upon the number of users. They can be homemade, custom-built, or manufactured. (istock)
Today’s composting toilets are not the equivalent of a port-a-potty stashed away in the basement. In fact, some models look similar to everyday commodes, but they all save water. And they don’t stink, require chemicals to clean, or flush or discharge human waste into the natural environment.
Deepwater Offers Information, Fishermen Want Compensation
Deepwater Wind is trying to keep fishermen happy while it builds more offshore wind facilities. The latest effort aims to protect commercial fishing gear, but fishermen and their advocacy groups want broader protections for the fishing grounds and their livelihood.
The Office of Energy Resources has adopted a set of initiatives to encourage solar development on brownfields, rooftops, and carports. (UMass)
Since 2007 Massachusetts has seen a 246-fold increase in the amount of electricity it gets from the sun. (HUD)
The entire project, including the interconnection work, is expected to require the clear-cutting of some 64 acres of forestland. (istock)
Solar Interconnections Would Impact Protected Properties
CRANSTON, R.I. — The work needed to make the interconnections to the power grid for two industrial-scale solar projects would clear the forest canopy that connects two conservation areas.
Vital Forest Ecosystem Put in Danger by Power
CHEPACHET, R.I. — A recent rally was held to protect Rhode Island’s largest tract of contiguous forest from bulldozers and the expansion of fossil-fuel infrastructure.
