Weekly News Roundup – November 10, 2011

The roundup is out a day early this week on account of the federal holiday tomorrow. Enjoy!

Protesters carry an inflatable Keystone Xl pipeline around the White House during a Nov. 6th rally. (Photo: Marine Jaouen)

Keystone XL Do-Over Likely a Lethal Blow

November 10 – The Obama Administration today announced they would redo an environmental assessment of the controversial Keystone XL tar sands pipeline.

This do-over is likely a lethal blow. The project won’t be able to stand the scrutiny because Americans now understand that it will increase our addiction to dirty, expensive tar sands oil for decades,” said Larry Schweiger, NWF president and CEO. “The Keystone XL pipeline was the wrong project in the wrong place. You can change the route, but it is still the wrong project at a time when we need investments in clean energy alternatives that don’t spill, don’t pollute, and don’t run out.”

America’s Crown Jewels Are Worth Protecting

November 10 – The Department of Interior recently released its Crown Jewels report, which recommends Congress designate certain public lands as national conservation or wilderness protection areas.

“Preserving America’s beauty through public lands is something that makes our country special,” said Todd Keller, senior manager for public lands campaigns for the National Wildlife Federation. “Many of these areas identified in DOI’s report boast broad support from recreation interests, members of congress from both parties, local citizens and local elected officials. This announcement is a win for wildlife, a win for sportsmen, and a win for jobs in the recreation economy.”

National Wildlife Federation Honors J. Wayne Leonard with Achievement Award

November 8 – It’s rare for the head of an energy company to be honored for his efforts to combat climate change. But for J. Wayne Leonard, blazing a new path is something of a trademark move.

As someone who believes climate change is the defining issue of his generation, Leonard considers it a moral obligation to future generations to take meaningful action to manage the risks of climate change.

“J. Wayne Leonard is a leader in every sense of the word,” said Larry Schweiger, president and CEO of the National Wildlife Federation. “We are proud to honor him for his insight, integrity and tireless efforts to make our planet a habitable place for all species.”

And here are highlights from NWF in the News: