Cancer is mostly random, study confirms

[Source: NBC News] Random mutations are the single biggest factor in causing cancer, researchers reaffirmed Thursday. About two-thirds of the genetic mutations that lead to cancer happen simply because of random errors made as cells divide and not because of diet, chemicals or inherited genes, the team at Johns Hopkins University said. “We hope that Read More…

Air quality board set to adopt smog plan with voluntary measures for ports, tougher rules on refineries

[Source: The Los Angeles Times] Southern California air quality regulators are poised to adopt a pollution-reduction plan Friday that relies on voluntary measures from ports, warehouses and rail yards responsible for much of the region’s harmful emissions. The South Coast Air Quality Management District board also appears likely to adopt a tougher regulatory stance toward Read More…

EPA science under scrutiny by Trump political staff

[Source: Associated Press] The Trump administration is mandating that any studies or data from scientists at the Environmental Protection Agency undergo review by political appointees before they can be released to the public. The communications director for President Donald Trump’s transition team at EPA, Doug Ericksen, said Wednesday the review also extends to content on Read More…

California’s bullet train is hurtling toward a multibillion-dollar overrun, a confidential federal report warns

[Source: The Los Angeles Times] California’s bullet train could cost taxpayers 50% more than estimated — as much as $3.6 billion more. And that’s just for the first 118 miles through the Central Valley, which was supposed to be the easiest part of the route between Los Angeles and San Francisco. A confidential Federal Railroad Administration risk Read More…

California lawmakers offer a plan to extend the state’s cap-and-trade program

[Source: The Los Angeles Times] A group of lawmakers, including some who have been skeptical of global warming regulations, introduced legislation on Thursday to ensure that California’s cap-and-trade emissions control program remains a permanent part of the state’s climate policy. The measure, AB 151, is only one paragraph long right now, but it represents an opening bid Read More…

Who is Scott Pruitt?

[Source: Cosmopolitan] He’s a climate change skeptic who is currently suing the EPA. Earlier this month, President-elect Donald Trump announced his pick to head the Environmental Protection Agency, Oklahoma Attorney General Scott Pruitt. As has been the case with many of Trump’s nominees, the choice has raised concerns, especially from Democrats. Here’s what you need Read More…

Regulators reach tentative deal to cut toxic emissions at Paramount company

[Source: Long Beach Press Telegram] One of two metal-processing facilities agreed Wednesday to sharply reduce toxic emissions or shut down parts of its operation. The South Coast Air Quality Management District and Aerocraft Heat Treating came to an agreement ahead of an administrative hearing held Wednesday to consider regulators’ request that the businesses sharply reduce Read More…