In some more positive news...

California's cap-and-trade program appears to be working better:
http://energyathaas.wordpress.com/2013/02/25/california-holds-its-second-cap-and-trade-auction-signs-of-a-maturing-market/

"The market clearing price for a “current” vintage 2013 allowance was $13.62, nearly $3 above the auction reserve price of $10.71.  All the “current” vintage allowances available for sale were sold."

In Praise of a Politician Part 3

Obama says that we should get rid of the penny:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uef6XckoIMw

Not that there should be any controversy about pennies, but lest you think that government will actually do something productive:

"The penny is an example of something that I need legislation for," he added. "Frankly, given all the big issues that we have to deal with day in and day out, a lot of times, it just doesn't, we're not able to get it."

On another note, DFTBA (don't forget to be awesome)
Watch Vlogbrothers.  Good stuff

 

In Praise of a Politician Part 2

http://www.sfgate.com/politics/article/Boxer-s-push-is-a-twist-on-carbon-tax-4277210.php

I'll let this one speak for itself:

"The Sanders-Boxer bill would impose a $20 per ton tax on carbon or methane equivalent, rising 5.6 percent each year for 10 years, on the nation's largest fossil fuel producers. Imported fossil fuels from countries that do not impose a similar tax would also pay.

The tax would raise an estimated $1.2 trillion over a decade and reduce greenhouse gas emissions 20 percent from 2005 levels. Three-fifths of the tax would be rebated to "every legal U.S. resident," which might make it more politically feasible than if it went to the government."

Why should Republicans support this? "'The Environmental Protection Agency is poised to go down that path,' Morris said. 'Those who have an aversion to regulation should take heed. If you want a market-based solution, do it now.'"

Bingo.

In Praise of a Politician

Cuomo Seeking Home Buyouts in Flood Zones

"Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo is proposing to spend as much as $400 million to purchase homes wrecked by Hurricane Sandy, have them demolished and then preserve the flood-prone land permanently, as undeveloped coastline."

"For the 10,000 or so homes in the 100-year flood plain that were substantially damaged by Hurricane Sandy, Mr. Cuomo would offer owners the pre-storm full market value of their houses. Homeowners who chose to relocate within their home county would receive a 5 percent bonus above the market value, as part of a government effort to encourage them to stay nearby. State officials said they were planning for the possibility that 10 to 15 percent of those eligible would take the buyout."

The homeowners make money, government (AKA taxpayers) doesn't have to spend as much on future disaster relief, and there is more of nature to admire.  Win-win.