Minnesota: No lie about July; we're about to take the high out of high

A strong northerly wind is prompting the National Weather Service to call for a high today of 64. If that proves out, that would be 2 degrees below the record cold high of 66 set in 1939.

"This [typically] is about our warmest time of the year," said Weather Service meteorologist Matt Friedlein. "It is very uncommon to have northern wind three days in a row this time of year."

Eco-boat attempts perilous Arctic voyage - CNN.com

The voyage, which is projected to take about six months, started in the South of France in April and, if they make it through the route successfully, will end in Japan.

The crew's other ecological concessions include relying on solar panels for electricity and warm water, using only long-lasting LED light bulbs eating only organic products during their journey.

On-board are seven adults and two children, including a painter, two writers, a scientist and a historian.
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"The most difficult challenge seems to be convincing hardened tug boat captains to partially switch to wind power," said Judith Puzzuoli, who is in charge of communication and press for "Le Mangier." "But change doesn't happen in a day."

Catholic carbon audit with Gore's blessing

Climate change believers in the church are seeking earthly salvation, writes Ben Cubby.

GOD puts down a mighty carbon footprint in Australia, but the Catholic Church is doing its best to lighten His tread.

With the support of the former US vice-president Al Gore, the church is starting a carbon audit of thousands of churches and parish buildings, about 1500 schools and more than 300 hospitals and aged-care facilities.

Severn tidal power scheme should not go ahead, warns Environment Agency | Environment | guardian.co.uk

The contentious Weston barrage would be the largest renewable energy project in Europe but comes with a huge ecological cost