Roundup: Houston resists recycling, EPA silences staff, students want green schools
Green News for the week of 7.29.08
At a time when green movements are sweeping the nation, the country’s fourth-largest city has the worst recycling program of the US’ 30 largest cities. to the New York Times, “Houston recycles just 2.6 percent of its total waste, according to a study this year by Waste News, a trade magazine. By comparison, San Francisco and New York recycle 69 percent and 34 percent of their waste respectively.”
And interestingly, Houston’s mayor blames the unfriendly green vibe on Texas’ reputation for doing things its own way.
“We have an independent streak that rebels against mandates or anything that seems trendy or hyped up,” said Mayor Bill White, who favors expanding the city’s recycling efforts. “Houstonians are skeptical of anything that appears to be oversold or exaggerated. But Houstonians can change, and change fast.”
Also:
EPA official directs staff against speaking to investigators or reporters.
Amtrak’s popularity rises with gas prices, says the Environment Report.
Students for green universities, reports the New York Times.
