Earth Talk

Dear EarthTalk: As I understand it, “clean” coal really isn’t—yet the Bush Administration pushed strongly for it. What is Obama’s take on it? -- John Zippert, Eutaw, AL

Dear EarthTalk: What effects do fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides used on residential lawns or on farms have on nearby water bodies like rivers, streams—or even the ocean for those of us who live

Dear EarthTalk: What kind of job opportunities might be opened up by the new federal emphasis on green projects? -- Dick Wetzler, St. Paul, MN

Dear EarthTalk: I’m sure there are many good environmental reasons to build a rooftop garden. Can you enlighten?

Dear EarthTalk: I haven’t heard much of late about big oil spills like the infamous Exxon Valdez. Has the industry cleaned up its act, or do the media just not report them? -- Olivia G., via e-mail

Dear EarthTalk: I’d like to know the relative electricity cost of utility scale solar and wind plants versus rooftop residential solar.

Dear EarthTalk: What’s the story with the Florida Panther these days? Is it still teetering on the brink of extinction, or is it on the rebound? -- Alex T., via email

Dear EarthTalk: Since Obama took office, have any new incentives been put in place for homeowners looking to increase energy efficiency and reduce the overall environmental footprints of their homes?

Dear EarthTalk: How are populations of the world’s orca whales faring these days? Are we still in danger of losing them all in the wild? -- J. Witham, Bangor, ME