Chem Links, January 6: Shine a Light on a Secret Chemical

About 20% of the 84,000 chemicals used commercially in the U.S. are protected by a provision in the Toxic Substances Control Act that allows their names and properties to be kept secret. Industry says there are legitimate business reasons for that, but many in the public are aiming for greater disclosure. (The Washington Post)

U.S. cap-and-trade in 2010? Probably not happening, says the chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources committee. However, there are other things that can be done about climate change. (ABC News)

Not everyone is bearish on climate bill, however. While the Copenhagen "accord" is widely viewed as a failure, it could help spur the Senate to act. And EPA regulation "is a sword of Damocles hanging over the Senate should it fail to act." (Grist)

Ever wonder why the U.S. doesn't really make things anymore? Maybe it’s the natural development of the economy from manufacturing to services. Maybe it's globalization. Maybe it's business school. (The New Republic)

The recession was pretty bad, but, all things considered, it could've been a lot worse. The recovery, though, is a whole new ballgame. (The Economist)