The Stream, December 29: Cleaning Up The Potomac River

Washington, D.C. is ploughing ahead with a $2.6 billion underground project — its biggest public works project in more than 40 years — aimed at helping clean up the polluted Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay, according to Reuters.

Iran’s threat to halt traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz — which is the passageway for about a third of the world’s seaborne-traded oil — would probably hurt the country most, according to Bloomberg. Iran has threatened to close the waterway if the West moves to toughen sanctions, including an oil embargo to pressure Iran to abandon its nuclear program.

China is increasing restrictions on foreign investment in its refining sector but is encouraging participation in developing unconventional oil and gas resources, Reuters reported, citing guidelines published by the National Development and Reform Commission.

Singapore is making plans to provide water taxi services for commuters traveling to the central business district of the city-state, The Telegraph reported. Currently, the only water taxis using the Singapore River are for tourists.

Climate Progress summarizes the top 10 clean energy stories of 2011.

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