Environment News in Raleigh

Automatic flush toilets are installed in many buildings throughout our city.  These fixtures are typically equipped with two methods of flush control: a laser motion sensor triggered by movement within a certain range, and a secondary manual control, similar to all non-automatic toilets.  There is an option to disable the automatic sensor such that the manual control is the only method of flushing.  When active, these toilets waste an immeasurable amount of water.  Why are they still activated in our city at this time of severe water deficit and restriction?  Full post. 

Last year, the North Carolina General Assembly passed legislation to create a grant program to help private companies and non-profit organizations, as well as local and state government groups to develop sustainable technology.  More… 

North Carolina State University is planning a facility on Centennial Campus that will be geared for research on Plug-In Electric Automobiles.  The new building will be located next to the Semiconductor Power Electronics Center (SPEC), and like many facilities on NCSU’s cutting-edge technopolis, this one will be a public/private venture.  Progress Energy and Duke Energy have already pledged support in funding for the project as well as the development and management of a system of charging stations.  (Want fries with that battery?)

Full article and location of the facility.

The Raleigh City Council approved stage 2 water restrictions on Tuesday amidst a widespread landscaping industry protest. The chambers were packed out into the hallway as the eight member council unanimously approved the ban on all outdoor water use.

10 billion gallons, thats how big Falls Lake’s current deficit is, almost 70 percent down from its healthy levels, seen as recently as early 2007.  The council has asked that we limit our use to 35 gallons a day- but has been unable to generate support for a water rate hike.  Many are conserving more and we are all familiar with traditional water conservation techniques- but the shortage hasn’t really affected any of us directly.  Sure, some small businesses have had to find alternative sources for water, and many of us have gloved our green thumb, but 10,000,000,000 gallons?  Start saving. One wonders how far it will have to go for folks to drastically change their behavior. Mr Lane has some deeper analysis of the science of it all here.

Today at 4 o’clock there is a forum to address Raleigh Drought issues and I encourage our interested readership to attend it.

How has the shortage affected you?  What are you doing to save water?