Florida Governor Crist Visits Wave Energy Prototype

August 17, 2007 -- TAMPA – Florida Governor Charlie Crist today visited the SRI Wave Energy Buoy project at the University of South Florida’s Knight Oceanographic Research Center in St. Petersburg. The visit caps off a weeklong focus of Governor Crist on conserving Florida’s environment and combating climate change.

“Global climate change is one of the most important issues we face this century and Florida is providing the leadership in the face of this tremendous challenge,” said Governor Crist. “Every day, scientists are looking for effective and efficient ways to create energy while preserving our state’s beautiful natural environment.”

The SRI Wave Energy Buoy project is a test technology that will produce electric power from ocean waves. The prototype is located on a buoy in Tampa Bay, near downtown St. Petersburg. Researchers measure the electricity generated from the prototype – a cylindrical device enclosed in a rubber case called an “artificial muscle”. Hundreds of the “artificial muscles” linked together could create a thousand watts of power.

Focus on Conservation

Earlier in the week, Governor Crist announced the formation of the Governor’s Action Team on Energy and Climate Change. The team consists of 21 members appointed by the Governor and is charged with developing a comprehensive strategy to achieve targets for statewide greenhouse gas reductions, including policy recommendations and changes to existing law.

On Wednesday, Governor Crist joined Secretary Michael W. Sole of the Department of Environmental Protection to announce the Green Lodging Web site. The Florida Green Lodging Program was launched by DEP in March 2004 and establishes environmental guidelines for hotels to conserve natural resources and prevent pollution. The program Web site contains photos and detailed information about designated facilities as well as tips on becoming a member of the Green Lodging Program. Additionally, visitors can offer feedback, suggest new ideas and access links to climate friendly Web sites.

In addition, Governor Crist yesterday highlighted the Clean Marina Program and launched the Clean Marina program Web site. The Clean Marina Program is a public/private partnership between the State of Florida and the marine industry. Through the Clean Boating Partnership, the Clean Marina Program works with marine facilities to adopt environmentally friendly practices beyond standard regulatory requirements. The Web site contains information on Clean Boating Partnership programs as well as lists of designated facilities and members of the partnership.

For more information on the Florida Green Lodging Program, please visit www.dep.state.fl.us/greenlodging.

For more information on the Clean Boating Partnership and the Clean Marina Program, visit www.dep.state.fl.us/cleanmarina.

Source: Florida Governor

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