Russia’s Prime Minister Vladimir Puttin says Russia’s ban on grain exports will be extended well into next year because of continued uncertainty over production. Severe drought and heat have depressed the Russian harvest. Putin told senior officials - there should be no frantic movement. I believe we must make clear that we can examine the cancellation of the ban on grain exports only after next year’s harvest is gathered and there is clarity regarding grain levels.
FAO Meeting on Wheat Shortage
The Russian ban on grain exports came as the United Nation’s Food and Agriculture Organization called an emergency meeting to discuss the wheat shortage, and riots in Mozambique which left seven dead. The FAO says - the concern about a possible repeat of the 2007-08 food crisis had resulted in "an enormous number" of inquiries from member countries. Officials say the purpose of holding this meeting is - for exporting and importing countries to engage.
Fuel Demand for Energy Use Down
Americans are using less energy overall and making more use of renewable energy resources. According to the most recent energy flow charts released by the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, the United States used significantly less coal and petroleum in 2009 than in 2008, and significantly more wind power. There also was a decline in natural gas use and increases in solar, hydro and geothermal power. A.J. Simon, an LLNL energy systems analyst, says - as a result, people and businesses are using less energy in general.
National Wilderness Month Set
President Obama has proclaimed September 2010 as National Wilderness Month. In his proclamation, Mr. Obama wrote, "As we celebrate America's abundance of diverse lands, remarkable wildlife, and untamed beauty during National Wilderness Month, we also look back on our rich history of conservation. It was over 100 years ago that President Theodore Roosevelt marveled at the stark grandeur of the Grand Canyon and declared, - the ages have been at work on it, and man can only marvel at it."
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