EPA awards $192,300 environmental jobs training grant to Fresno group

The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced today that it has awarded a $192,300 grant for environmental jobs training to a Fresno employment, education, and training service organization. The Fresno Regional Workforce Investment Board (FRWIB) will use the funds to train 70 students and place at least 60 graduates in environmental related jobs. The environmental fields that will use the workers include recycling, solid waste management, wastewater treatment, pest control, and hazardous waste cleanup.

Read more at the link below:

 http://www.examiner.com/article/epa-awards-192-300-environmental-jobs-training-grant-to-fresno-group

Plains responds to media criticism of its safety record and Refugio oil spill

Plains All American Pipeline Company, L.P., has responded to media criticism of its safety record and lack of automatic shutoff valves in a pipeline that spilled 2,500 barrels of crude oil, despoiling the Santa Barbara coast and adjoining ocean waters. The spill occurred on May 19, 2015, when crude oil escaped from an apparently broken pipeline, flowed through a culvert under Highway 101, and onto Refugio beach. The affected coastline has been closed to the public and an intensive cleanup and wildlife rescue operation is currently underway.

Read more at the link below:

http://www.examiner.com/article/plains-responds-to-media-criticism-of-its-safety-record-and-refugio-oil-spill

 

#Refugio,#Plains,#oilspill

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