Search

The article reports on the decline in prices of natural gas amid concerns over high fuel inventory and mild weather forecasts in 2009. There was a 6.4% drop in the price of natural-gas contract for October delivery on the New York Mercantile Exchange. On September 4, a 46% rise in the front-month contract was recorded after a seven and a half year low. Other factors that adversely affect gas prices are increasing domestic production and mild demand.

This article deals with the threat posed by rising sea levels to New York City. The local effects of gravity, water density and ocean currents are key factors influencing the rise in sea levels, according to new forecasts of melting ice sheets. There is an effort by the city's long-term planners to balance the cost of re-engineering the area against the uncertainties of climate forecasts. At the H209 Water Forum, engineering concepts for storm surge barriers were discussed. Piet Dircke of Arcadis points out the huge economic impact of flooding.