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GREENHOUSE WEEKLY ROUNDUP

Greta Jonyniate | 02.09.11

There’s been some great news for the new generation of engineering leaders. The government has announced a £6.5m investment in boosting engineering skills for the renewable energy industry, as the UK gears up for an unprecedented expansion of offshore wind and marine energy. Read the full article here: Renewable energy skills get £6.5m boost

On Tuesday, the Environment Agency published a list of the 10 most improved rivers in England and Wales, which are now healthier than they have been for decades. Ian Barker, head of land and water at the Environment Agency, said: "Work that we have done with farmers, businesses and water companies to reduce the amount of water taken from rivers, minimise pollution and improve water quality is really paying off. Otters, salmon and other wildlife are returning for the first time since the industrial revolution." Read the full article here: Rivers the healthiest in a generation due to stricter pollution controls

And finally – According to new research published by the International Energy Agency (IEA), solar energy could produce the bulk of the world’s power by 2060. However, whilst this is good news on a global basis, the Solar Trade Association believes the UK is at risk of falling behind. Howard Johns, Chairman of the Association said, “The news that the International Energy Agency anticipate solar - both PV and thermal - can become the world's major source of energy is welcomed by the STA.” Read the full article here: Solar to produce lion’s share of world’s energy in just 50 years

We think that more companies should follow Good Energy’s lead, who recently signed power purchase agreements with more than 30 solar facilities across the country. It now expects the electricity generated by these developments to make up 33 per cent of its mix over a typical year. Juliet Davenport, company founder and chief executive, said the company's move proved solar was a viable option in the UK and would also help stabilise its future energy prices, which, in contrast to the Big Six electricity suppliers, will remain unchanged until 2012. Read the full article Good Energy ups solar stake on the Business Green website

The most clicky story of the week:

Solar to produce lion’s share of world’s energy in just 50 years
According to new research published by the International Energy Agency (IEA) solar could produce the bulk of the world’s power by 2060.
(Solar Power Portal)

Some other links we loved this week:

How e-bikes got sexy
Take a high-end mountain bike and attach a powerful electric motor. Is this the future of e-bikes?
(The Guardian)

How dentists are saving Borneo's rainforest
Dentists are offering free treatment to patients who oppose illegal logging. Stanley Johnson visits an award-winning clinic to find out more.
(The Independent)

Over a third of UK farmers keen on renewables investment
Two in every five UK farmers are expecting to invest in renewable energy and are targeting average annual returns of £25,000 in reduced energy bills and new income.
(Business Green)

Most important foods to buy organic
If you would like to "go green" and buy all organic foods, it may be that your aspirations are bigger than your budget. Here are 15 foods that are definitely worth buying organic.
( Earth Times)

10 Eco Friendly Accessories for a Greener Offices
You maintain green habits at home, but are you as conscientious in the office? We’ve found 10 great accessories that will help you stay eco-friendly even when you hit your workplace
(Mashable)