After a recent state ruling requiring Seattle and other Puget Sound cities to control polluted stormwater runoff, smaller cities and suburbs could be brought on board as well.
"A key concept is whether the government should require, or merely permit, "low-impact" development techniques to control stormwater, which is considered the biggest source of many of Puget Sound's worst pollutants."
"The smaller cities -- from Aberdeen to Yarrow Point, including Bellevue, Redmond, Edmonds, Everett and Federal Way -- merely have to take steps toward requiring the enviro-friendly construction methods."
"Steps to minimize the polluted runoff focus on minimizing concrete and other hard surfaces that cause rain to flow away, carrying pollutants such as oil and copper residue from cars' brakes. Examples include vegetated roofs, special pavement that allows water to soak through, and "rain gardens" that slurp up runoff."
"The environmentalists were stopped short in their effort to convince the quasi-judicial hearings board that the 85 smaller cities and counties should have to take the same steps as Seattle, Tacoma and the counties of King, Pierce, Snohomish and Clark."
FULL STORY: Stormwater isn't just a big-city problem
Seattle to Rely on Green Stormwater Infrastructure
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Using Old Oil and Gas Wells for Green Energy Storage
Penn State researchers have found that repurposing abandoned oil and gas wells for geothermal-assisted compressed-air energy storage can boost efficiency, reduce environmental risks, and support clean energy and job transitions.
Updating LA’s Tree Rules Could Bring More Shade to Underserved Neighborhoods
A new USC study finds that relaxing Los Angeles’ outdated tree planting guidelines could significantly expand urban tree canopy and reduce shade disparities in lower-income neighborhoods, though infrastructure investments are also needed.
California's Canal Solar Projects Aim to Conserve Resources and Expand Clean Energy
California’s Project Nexus has begun generating electricity from solar panels installed over irrigation canals, with researchers and state agencies exploring statewide expansion to conserve water and boost clean energy production.
HHS Staff Cuts Gut Energy Assistance Program
The full staff of a federal program that distributes heating and cooling assistance for low-income families was laid off, jeopardizing the program’s operations.
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