Articles by Grist staff

GAO doubts efficacy of Energy Star label

You know the U.S. government’s Energy Star label, meant to direct consumers to energy-efficient electronics and appliances? The Government Accountability Office does not think it means what you think it means. In a new report, the GAO notes that, for example, TVs are tested in standby mode, because the latest available standards for testing tellies’ […]

Obama introduces ambitious energy plan

Barack Obama unveiled the details of his energy policy proposal in a speech in New Hampshire today, and he’s swinging for the fences. At the center is a cap-and-trade system that would reduce greenhouse-gas emissions 80 percent by 2050. Notably, Obama is the first major presidential candidate to propose that 100 percent of the initial […]

Court rulings are appealed left and right

Automakers are appealing a court decision that allows states to regulate greenhouse-gas emissions from automobiles. Green groups are appealing the U.S. EPA’s decision to issue a permit for a new coal-fired power plant in Utah. W.R. Grace & Co. is appealing reinstatement of charges that it knowingly concealed dangers associated with asbestos mining. And Jake […]

More toys recalled due to lead, Congress vows to move ahead on climate legislation, and more

Read the news items highlighted in this week’s podcast: The Lead Badge of Discourage Legislate Bloomers Ice Free or Die Wait and Sea Read the articles mentioned at the end of the podcast: How Green Is Your Candidate? Last Swim with Henry Dave A Better Mousetrap