Plastic Pact helps spur single-use plastic revolution

The focus on greenhouse gasses is typically on CO2, but we shouldn’t forget about methane. From the NOAA article Increase in atmospheric methane set another record in 2021 – Carbon dioxide levels also record a big jump (4/7/2022):  For the second year in a row, NOAA scientists observed a record annual increase in atmospheric levels of methane, a powerful, heat-trapping greenhouse gas that’s the second biggest contributor to human-caused global warming after carbon dioxide.  NOAA’s preliminary analysis showed the annual increase in atmospheric methane during 2021 was 17 parts per billion (ppb), the largest annual increase recorded since systematic measurements began in 1983. The increase during 2020 was 15.3 ppb. Atmospheric methane levels averaged 1,895.7 ppb during 2021, or around 162% greater than pre-industrial levels. From NOAA’s observations, scientists estimate global methane emissions in 2021 are 15% higher than the 1984-2006 period.  Methane data links are at the bottom of this Global Monitoring Laboratory page. There is also a methane project on the Calculus Projects page.

London-based property giant Canary Wharf Group (CWG) has outlined plans for reaching net-zero by 2030, including new commitments on electric vehicles and heat.

The redevelopment of Hartham Leisure Centre enters the net phase following the demolition of the western end of the building, enabling construction of the new extension to begin with recycled materials where possible.  The new building will feature additional studio space, a state of the art gym, new soft play facility and terrace style café opening out onto Hartham Common.  Brickwork from the demolition will be retained and reused as part of the landscape management of the development.  Other materials, including timber and steel will be sorted for reuse and recycling where possible.   Eric Buckmaster, executive member for wellbeing at East Herts District Council, who said: “The expansion and renovation of Hartham Leisure Centre will deliver new and improved facilities for residents and I am delighted we have reached this stage that will deliver some of the new and exciting aspects of the development including extra studio space, a state of the art gym, new soft play centre and a café.