From www.scienceinafrica.co.za which is conducting water usage studies on Jatropha in Africa. The Jatropha curcas tree, originates from Mexico. It’s oil-producing seeds (30%-35% oil) and entire plant are inedible (toxic) to humans, and most animals and birds. It produces for 50 years. A small tree or shrub with a maximum height of 5 m, Jatropha curcas reportedly grows readily in areas of low rainfall (from 250 mm a year) and in poor soils, however, yield … Read more
by Alice Friedemann Released April 10, 2007 “The nation that destroys its soil destroys itself.” – President Franklin D. Roosevelt Peak Soil: Why Cellulosic ethanol and other Biofuels are Not Sustainable and are a Threat to America’s National Security Part 1. The Dirt on Dirt. Part 2. The Poop on Ethanol: Energy Returned on Energy Invested (EROEI) Part 3. Biofuel is a Grim Reaper. Part 4. Biodiesel: Can we eat enough … Read more
In May of 1998, the US Department of Energy (DOE) and US Department of Agriculture (USDA) published the results of the Biodiesel Lifecycle Inventory Study. It compared findings for a comprehensive “cradle to grave” inventory of materials used; energy resources consumed; and air, water and solid waste emissions generated by petroleum diesel fuels and biodiesel in order to compare the total “lifecycle” costs and benefits of each of the fuels. This 3.5-year study followed US … Read more
The Maui Sierra Club Executive Committee extends a hearty “mahalo” to all those volunteers, community members and local businesses who made our 25th Anniversary Silver Moon Gala a resounding success. See complete list below. Maui Group Salutes Environmental Heroes At Silver Anniversary Awards Ceremony The Maui Group’s quarter century of accomplishments have been made possible through the dedicated efforts of numerous Group members and allies. During its November 3, 2006 Silver Anniversary Gala, the Group presented … Read more
Maui Group Chair, Daniel Grantham, testified at a recent public meeting on the East Maui Water Development Plan. The County’s Plan proposes 8 wells along the Kauhikoa Ditch in Ha`iku and a 36″ pipeline to transport 10-15 mgd of water to Central and South Maui. Maui Group members attended and expressed their concerns: declining rainfall aver-ages in East Maui, lack of solid data on minimum stream flows, effects of well pumping on streams, exploitation of … Read more
MYTH: Haiku Wells are part of a management plan to meet needs of future growth countywide that conforms to all Community Plans. FACT: The Ha’iku-Paia Community Plan (p. 11) specifically states that water developed in Ha’iku should be used to meet Ha’iku’s needs first…not sent to South or Central Maui. Ha’iku Wells are not planned to supply water to Ha’iku and the County is discounting other potential water sources ormanagement strategies for South-Central Maui needs. MYTH: County well … Read more
