Plains oil spill in Santa Barbara reveals some interesting information

On Tuesday morning, May 19, 2015, something happened to an onshore pipeline belonging to Plains All American Pipeline Company, LP., near Santa Barbara, CA. Approximately 2,500 barrels of crude oil was released from what has been reported to be a break in that pipeline. The oil flowed into a nearby storm drain culvert that went under California Highway 101 and made its way to Refugio Beach, contaminating both the beach and the Pacific Ocean.

However, a review of several media reports, statements from the pipeline owner, government officials, other oil company representatives, and others has revealed some interesting responses and tidbits of information that all will be factored into explaining the event, minimizing the chances of it happening again, and determining the ultimate responsibility, fines, and resultant costs. It may also help to influence the future of energy development and usage in Santa Barbara County and elsewhere.

Read more at the link below:

http://www.examiner.com/article/plains-oil-spill-santa-barbara-reveals-some-interesting-information 

California closes in on ban of plastic microbeads in consumer products

California lawmakers, never shy when addressing environmental problems, have their sights set on another ecosystem problem – the use of plastic microbeads in beauty and personal care products. A bill that would ban the use of such materials in California, AB-888 (Bloom), has been making its way through the California Assembly. Today, after its third reading, the bill was passed on a 55-18 vote.

#microbeads,#ab888,#plasticpollution

Read more at the link below:

http://www.examiner.com/article/california-closes-on-ban-of-plastic-microbeads-consumer-products

Governor Brown signs historic GHG agreement today with other world leaders

California Governor Jerry Brown continued to establish his legacy as a champion for the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) today when he signed an historic, first-of-its-kind agreement with leaders from 11 other states and countries across the world.

Read more at the link below:

http://www.examiner.com/article/governor-brown-signs-historic-ghg-agreement-today-with-other-world-leaders

Doosan Infracore Company fined $647,500 for violating air pollution regs

Another engine manufacturing company has run afoul of California's stringent air pollution regulations and has agreed to pay a significant fine as a result. South Korean based Doosan Infracore Company Ltd. illegally made field modifications to previously certified compressed natural gas (CNG) motor vehicle engines in violation of California's Health & Safety Code. The penalty, $647,500, was announced today by the California Air Resources Board (ARB) although the actual settlement was signed in October of last year.

Read more at the link below:

http://www.examiner.com/article/doosan-infracore-company-fined-647-500-for-violating-air-pollution-regs