Which Way, L.A.?
Reducing Emissions at the Ports
The Ports of LA and Long Beach generate billions for Southern California's economy. After years of pressure, they've finally agreed to clean up their act and it's paying off...
By Warren Olney • • 53m ListenThe Ports of LA and Long Beach generate billions for Southern California's economy. They're also the biggest fixed source of pollution. But after years of pressure from surrounding communities, they agreed to clean up their act, and it's paying off. The clean truck program is actually ahead of schedule, and cancer-causing diesel particulates have been cut by 72 percent. We hear how that happened, what it means for public health and how much more needs to be done. Also, wind farms, the Endangered Species Act and the Golden Eagle. On our rebroadcast of today's To the Point, the debt ceiling, the President and next year's campaign.
Banner image: First CNG trucks arrive at the Port of Long Beach
In this episode
3 storiesLos Angeles Air Is a Little Bit Cleaner
The Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are still this region's biggest stationary polluters, but the Port of Long Beach is claiming a 72 percent reduction in cancer-causing diesel particulates. It's the result of an effort begun after years of community agitating.
Read the story19 minFederal Officials Investigating Eagle Deaths at Wind Farm
Wind power is an alternative to what's generated by fossil fuels, but it's not entirely kind to the environment. LA's Department of Water and Power may be running afoul of the Endangered Species Act. As many as six golden eagles have been struck dead by wind turbines at the Pine Tree Wind Project in the Tehachapi Mountains.
Read the story7 minThe Debt Ceiling and the 2012 Presidential Playing Field
The deficit reduction deal isn't over yet and it might play a role in next year's presidential campaign. Tea-Party favorite Michele Bachmann opposed any debt ceiling increase; moderate Jon Huntsman said one was needed.
Read the story27 min
