Cascades’ Moka brand reduces the environmental impact “of its raw material by 25% and greenhouse gas emissions by 30% compared to our greenest white bathroom tissue also made from 100% recycled fiber.”
Made from “ … 100% unbleached recycled fiber, is the most environmentally responsible choice on the market.”
For consumers looking to reduce their environmental footprint this product may be the way to go.
Via: Cascades LINK
Marriott partnered with Constellation Energy to manage “load response” for over 250 properties including those in the mid-Atlantic area and New England. This manages electricity usage in response to prices and / availability – while keeping guests comfortable.
In effect this is a“Load response is the reduction of electrical consumption in response to high wholesale electricity prices, system resource capacity needs or system reliability events. “
This ties in with Marriott’s sustainability programs. "… dramatically improve the energy efficiency of our hotels, saving an estimated 1.2 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually." 
Marriott will use Constellation’s VitruWattTM to “ … track electricity usage, bid directly into demand response markets and automate load curtailment strategies.”
For more information on VitruWattTM LINK
Via: Constellation Energy LINK
The statistics on waster are amazing … “Less than 10% of plastic trash is recycled … because of the massively complicated problem of finding and sorting the different kinds. …”
Mike Biddle has developed a solution to change that “ … developed a patented 30-step plastics recycling system … that takes less than a tenth of the energy required to make virgin plastic from crude oil. …” The process is sustainable, uses waste streams as a raw material, helps eliminate waste and reduces CO2 emissions … instead of oil.
See the fascinating TED video for details …on an efficient plant that can, and does, recycle any kind of plastic.
Via: TED LINK
I found this interesting guide to building a green roof. I have not tried it (I do not have a flat roof) but it seems do-able.
Green roofs can make your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter and can control water runoff. 
Here is what a green roof might look like in cross section.
Via: Instructables LINK
Duane Reade – the NYC drugstore chain - is the 1st US Retail Pharmacy to use EVs. The trucks, Newton models from Smith Electric Vehicles - “ … can travel up to 100 miles on a single overnight charge. … operating costs over one year are one-third to one-half those for a conventional diesel vehicle … Newton also uses regenerative braking … [to] charge to the truck’s battery …”
“ … is part of an extensive Duane Reade initiative to cut energy consumption. …” which includes LED lighting to reduce lighting costs and cooling costs.
Via: SmartPlanet LINK
Call2Recycle® partners with various organizations to collect and recycle cell phones and batteries. Organizations can collect either internally (staff and members) or externally as well (community).
Sites (schools, townships, retailers, etc) collect cell phones and and batteries and then ship them (shipping is prepaid) for sorting and recycling. “ … None of the … material makes its way into landfills. Since Call2Recycle was created in 1994, 60 million pounds has been diverted from landfills.”
For a simplified overview of the recycling / recovery process …. LINK
So far this year they have recycled … “5,132,062 pounds of batteries”
Via: Call2Recycle LINK
PrintEco saves paper when printing web pages. Using software to determine how to eliminate wasted space PrintEco can show you how many pages and pounds of CO2 were saved by “reformatting” a web page.
Saving paper can save money, reduce waste, save printer toner and reduce your carbon footprint.
“ … track the financial and environmental impact of your printing habits through our web-based dashboard, PrintEco Analytics.”
See video below for details showing a web page before and after PrintEco …
Via: PrintEco LINK
ecoATM wants to make electronics recycling easy and convenient.
ecoATM created a self serve Kiosk that takes your used electronics and gives you cash or store credit.
The kiosk “ … patented, advanced machine vision, electronic diagnostics, and artificial intelligence to evaluate and buy-back used electronics directly from consumers for cash or store credit. …”
Watch this video to see how easy the process is for the user …
Currently (Sept 2011) there is a cluster of ecoATM locations on the west coast stretching from just north of Los Angeles to just south of San Diego and two others – one in Kansas City, Kansas and one in Redmond, Washington.
Via: ecoATM LINK
Wondering if you can make a flex fuel or EV work for you? Check out this US DOE app that tells you what alternative fuel sources are close to a given ZIP Code.
Near me – ZIP Code 19087 there are a few Compressed Natural Gas, Liquid Petroleum Gas, Ethanol, and Biodiesel stations.
Enter your ZIP Code by clicking the upside down triangle just to the right of the ENERGY.GOV logo (see screen shot above).
Clicking on the colored dots brings up a map (MAPQUEST) with enough info to find the fuel stop.
Note the large number of EV “Stations” near NYC.
Via: US DOE LINK
GreenSmart makes bags from rPET – recycled PET (Polyethylene terephthalate). All their “GreenSmart Bottles 2 Bags” come from …” certified 100% post-consumer recycled PET water and soda bottles.”
“ … primary objective with every product and material we make or use is eco-progress … is no eco-perfect and we are not perfect either, yet we plan to continue to improve.”
Check you this video from Act2 / GreenSmart to learn how PET plastic bottles are recycled and turned into fabric or other plastic items.
Via: GreenSmart LINK
With Suntrica’s SolarStrap™ you never have to worry about runnning out of batteries for your small electronic devices.
Suntrica’s SolarStrap™ combines a solar panel with an integrated battery pack to store power for charging small electronics such as cell phones, mp3 players and is “ … compatible with most … devices utilizing 5 V charging voltage”
“SolarStrap™ is… designed specifically for harsh outdoor use. … responce to the … charging challenge in developing markets having limited access to electricity. “
Via: Suntrica Ltd. LINK
Ford and SunPower have a program where customers of the Ford Focus Electric car are offered the opting to purchase solar PV system that would generate free and clean energy to offset the grid power used to charge the car.
The system can generate ….” an average of 3,000 kilowatt hours of electricity annually. … sized to accommodate … about 1,000 miles per month.
The price of the solar system is approx. $10,000 after incentives and rebates.
Via: Ford LINK
The US DOE is sponsoring the 2011 Solar Decathlon – where 20 colleges and universities bring houses they designed and built to DC to compete in an “energy-off”.
The winner will be determined by the team that “ … best blends affordability, consumer appeal, and design excellence with optimal energy production and maximum efficiency.”
Houses should be …. “affordable, attractive …” and provide a healthy / comfortable living space and ideally generate more energy that it uses from wind and / or solar systems
Check it out if you are going to be in or near DC … and look for teams from around the world as well as the US.
Via: US DOE LINK
Ditto's goal " ... is to elevate your customer’s perception of your core brand, enriching the consumer experience through smart, ecological design."
One of their products is an Environmentally Friendly Hanger made of paper. Retailers can use these in place of wire or plastic hangers and make a statement about their support of the environment and sustainability.
Ditto hangers are reusable and recyclable ...
Hangers are everywhere in the clothing business ... according to Ditto's website an estimated 8 BILLION hangers are landfilled each year ... companies using Ditto paper hangers can have a very positive impact on that number!
I saw Ditto paper hangers in a display window at a GAP in Ardmore, PA.
Via: DITTO Brand Solutions LINK
Arizona State University wants to be "Net Zero Carbon" by 2025.
It will achieve this status by " ... balancing a measured amount of carbon released with an equivalent amount of renewable energy or offsetting by planting trees ..."
Check out Arixzona State University's Carbon Neutrality Action Plan which gives details for reaching Net Zero Carbon.
Via: Arizona State University LINK
Fracking (hydraulic fracturing for oil in shale formations) is a contentious subject. But the demand for energy - including natural gas in shale formations is rising.
Researchers from Penn State has found a way to use waste from industry in place of sand. Currently sand for fracking comes from mines in the mid-west.
The "new material" called PennProd would replace sand
(lowering the carbon footprint of bringing in a non local raw material) and help eliminate industrial waste.
This process would treat industrial waste and use it in the fracking solution ... eliminating waste that would otherwise have to be landfilled. Since a typical Marcellus Shale well would take 25 rail-cars or 5 million lbs of sand this eliminates a good amount of industrial waste.
PennProd is "...engineered to use waste from metabasalt mines. Heated to 3,000 degrees, the metabasalt forms into molten obsidian spheres. The glassy pellets are then heat-tempered into a hardened ceramic."
Via: Bellingham Herald LINK
Dow Chemical Company is working with Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide to produce PHEV (plug-in electric hybrids). This is a natural "fit" for Dow as they have a JV with Kokam to produce batteries for hybrids.
The program converts Ford's F-150 to ..." PHEV trucks powered by Dow Kokam lithium ion battery technology, which delivers the energy and power balance required for these vehicles."
" ... create and deploy the first PHEV trucks – using leading battery technology ..."
Plans call for the first trucks to be available in December 2011 ... with more than 100 PHEV trucks at Dow by 2012.
Via: Dow Chemical Company LINK
An Arizona State University student has 
a novel design to mount HORIZONTAL wind turbines on overhead highway signposts. By modifying the existing signposts they can be become wind energy sources. See mocked up picture at RIGHT >>>
" ... estimates ... on the highways outside of Phoenix, ... each turbine would produce enough energy annually to power a 700-square-foot apartment. ..."
The idea is that the breeze from the moving cars and the wind can generate "free energy" for the grid - and not require any additional energy use by cars and trucks. In Arizona many of the highways have a 70 mph speed limit.
EvoLucia Aimed LED Lighting is not only more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than other light sources, it is also much more effective. Through our patented Aimed Optics™ technology, we have demonstrated that less overall light is needed if the light is correctly focused on the target area, which allows for more efficient lighting solutions. We have identified an immediate opportunity, particularly in the outdoor lighting market, to supply high quality energy-efficient lighting solutions through this patented technology. We continue to develop and refine our products to serve the market and are actively pursuing alliances that will allow us to drive down the cost of producing our “Aimed LED Lighting” products.
Simply put, “aimed LED lighting” is the method of providing exactly the light that’s needed, where it’s needed. Through our patent-pending Aimed Optics™ technology, EvoLucia optimizes utilization of LEDs to put the most foot-candles on the ground, in the pattern required, with the best uniformity, using the fewest LEDs and the least power consumed.
While traditional luminaires are utilize one single, omni-directional light source per fixture, such as a metal-halide light bulb, EvoLucia’s Aimed Optics™ lighting technology platform uses multiple LEDs. A reflector directs the light in the desired pattern and provides the requisite number of foot-candles exactly where they’re needed.
It is both cost advantageous and energy-efficient to minimize the number of LEDs used to achieve the required number and uniformity of foot-candles in the pattern desired. In order to do this, each LED (or small group of LEDs) must be aimed and focused optimally. The method for doing this is the basis for the Aimed Optics platform.
Via: EvoLucia Lighting LINK
Research Frontiers, Inc's SPD technology uses suspended particles in glass to react to a small voltage to change from clear to nearly blocked. With voltage is applied the glass is clear.
This would allow for large glass windows for light and letting the same windows block direct sun to reduce A/C load and reduce UV damage to fabrics.
' ...provides exceptional control over solar energy..."
" ... ability of architectural smart glass to improve the energy efficiency of buildings by effectively controlling solar heat gain and harvesting daylight ..."
Via: Research Frontiers, Inc. LINK and LINK
The Dow Chemical Company and Cobblestone Homes have collaborated on a second highly energy efficient home. This one is at 5018 Butterfield Dr. in Midland, Michigan - home to Dow.
The home was build for approx. the price of the average new home in the U.S. - $250,000 - bring
ing energy efficiency closer to the mass market.
The home is called “InVision Zero” and is expected to " ... to save $2,441 in energy costs and avert 30,233 pounds of CO2 annually ...". These figures are achieved using a number of Dow technologies and products resulting in a very "tight" home that is free of drafts (and the resulting heat / cooling losses).
The h
ome has a DOE HERS (House energy rating) value of -4. Energy Star Homes have a rating of about 85 and Net Zero homes rate a 0. This home is very energy efficient.
Via: Dow Building Solutions LINK
United has a green sustainability program called eco-skies. Among the highlights of the program are ...
... over 300 planes with winglets that reduce emissions by up to 5% ... 3600+ service vehicles that are either electric or alternative fueled ... recycling over 3 millions lbs plastic and aluminum from flight service over a 5 year period ...
"First U.S. biofuel and synthetic fuel demonstration flights and signed letters of intent to advance cost-efficient and environmentally responsible alternative jet fuels derived from biomass feedstock ..."
Via: United LINK
Acloa EcoClean™ uses titanium Dioxide (TiO2) to create a building panel that can clean the air; the world's first.
When sun strikes the panels causes electrons to become energized and " ... electrons transfer energy to water in the air and form free radicals ... [that can] oxidize the NOx molecules, converting them to a harmless nitrate ..." NOx is a component of smog so this can fight smog.
Additionally the panels “self clean” in the rain so building maintenance costs are lowered. See the Video below for more about the process.
Via: Alcoa LINK
Certain Honda Civics have an easy way to save fuel .... by pushing the ECON button. When pushed " ... the Civic's engine and other energy-consuming systems are automatically configured to operate more efficiently..."
Better fuel economy at the push of a button !
Via: Honda LINK
MIT scientists have found a novel way to use virus' to improve the efficiency of PV cells. The virus' " ... perform detailed assembly work at the microscopic level ... based on findings that carbon nanotubes ... can enhance the efficiency of ... solar cell's surface."
The virus' are used to " ... control the arrangement of the nanotubes ... so they can’t short out the circuits ..."
Improvements in power conversion efficiency are close to 1/3.
Via: MIT LINK
Oregon has a stretch of the Corridor of the Future - at interchange of I-5 and I-205 in Oregon. Ground mounted solar panels that provide power used at the interchange.
" ... 104 kilowatt ground-mounted solar array ... supplies about one-third of the energy needed for illumination at the site.
" ... energy ... feeds into the grid during the day ... At night ... energy flows back from the grid to light the interchange. ..."
Too see the current energy stats click the LINK
Via: Oregon.gov LINK
Macy's is partnering with ECOtality to pilot self serve EV (electric vehicle) charging stations. " ... two electric vehicle charging stations this fall outside each of six Macy's stores in ... San Diego ..."
" ... will install ECOtality’s Blink Electric Vehicle (EV) Level 2 Commercial Pedestal Charging stations ..."
metropolitan area (locations are being identified). ..."
Ecotricity is a green UK energy supplier.
They have been bundling wind turbines and selling the electricity produced since 1996. They are also educating and raising peoples awareness of the impact they can have on the environment by choosing a lower carbon generating supplier.
Changing electric suppliers " ... takes about five minutes but it's the biggest single step you can take to reduce your emissions and protect the environment."
Click HERE to see the current stats on the UK electric grid ... power generated by (in order) fossil fuels, nuclear, and renewable energy sources as well as the Grams of Co2 / KWh.
On 4/28/2011 (Thu 28/04/11 @ 12:05 BST) the stats were:
Fossil: 72.4 %
Nuclear: 22.9 %
Renewable: 4.7 %
CO2 / KWh: 415 g CO2 / KWh
How other UK Energy Companies Compare LINK
Via: ecotricity LINK
TD Bank recently opened a call center in Auburn, Maine that is 100% powered by green energy sources. The center is designed for US LEED Gold certification.
Among the green design elements / features are " ... plumbing fixtures that use 33 percent less water, drought tolerant plants ... a recycling system that will collect paper, glass, metal, plastic, cardboard, fluorescent lamps and batteries."
For more on the green features check out the link at the bottom of this post.
TD has also committed to going carbon neutral and is one of the largest US Banks to commit to being carbon neutral.
Via: Environmental Leader LINK
Why recycle used motor oil? Two reasons are to reduce dependence on imported oil and to protect the environment Improperly disposed motor oil can cause significant damage to the environment – especially to water supplies … “ … just one gallon of used oil can contaminate up to one million gallons of water ….”
“ … motor oil doesn't really wear out … it's the additives that wear out …”
Check out this video to see the engine oil life cycle and what happens to oil as it is reprocessed “from oil pan to oil can”.
Via: Valvoline LINK
San Francisco's new Terminal 2 was retrofitted to be green by design. It is the first Airport Terminal in the US to achieve GOLD LEED.
Among the green features in the design were waste reduction (achieved by reusing or recycling all construction waste), reduced water use (achieved by a closed loop reclaimed water system for the toilets and urinals that is treated on site) and Greenhouse Gas - GHG - reductions (achieved by eliminating the need for airplane auxiliary power units by providing preconditioned air and power at the gate).
Via: SFO LINK
Starbucks is celebrating EARTH DAY by giving a free cup of coffee if you skip the paper cup .... either bring in your own refillable cup or ask for your coffee in a "for-here" cup. Either way it is free. Last year Starbucks had 1.2 million participants !
" ... on Earth Day ... inviting everyone to bring in a reusable mug or tumbler and get a free brewed coffee or tea ... hot or iced ... at participating stores in the United States and Canada."
"... We recognize the impact one can make through careful, conscious choices ..."
If you do not have a reusable mug and want to buy one you can get one for 20 % off and then get 10 cents off each time you use it at Starbucks.
Here is your chance to make a positive impact on the environment on Earth Day and every day !
Via: Starbucks LINK
American University new School of International Service is expected to receive LEED-GOLD certification.
The building is designed by architect Willam McConough, ... "renown for sustainable design and his "cradle-to cradle" philosophy for recycling and reusing building materials...." .
Some of the many green and environmentally friendly features include: a 33 KW solar energy system, rainwater collection (60,000 gallons) for flushing toilets, LED lighting in the car park, rain gardens, and much more.
Read more by follwing the link below.
Via: American University LINK
Check out the Save Some Green at 2005 Chestnut Street in Philadelphia, Pa.v
"ALL of our products are better for the environment ... Recycled, Recyclable, Biodegradable, Compostable, ... Sustainable, ... Less-wasteful, Local – or a combination."
The store fixtures are reused or made from bamboo or recycled cardboard.
" .... carry products which are reasonably priced ... "
They offer to recycle materials such as # 3 - # 7 plastics and even take food for composting !
Check out their website to learn more about what they do and what they offer LINK
Don't live in Philadelphia - see their Amazon store !
Portland, Maine has signed a deal with Ameresco to cut its carbon footprint. The project covers approx. 15 years and is to cost $9.4 million. The city expects to save $17 million over the life of the project.
What is unique about this engagement is that there is no upfront cost to Portland. "Ameresco will guarantee ... cash flows ... will exceed the cash requirements for the project, offsetting the costs ..."
Per their website ... Ameresco "delivers ... solutions on both sides of the meter ... leverage renewable energy and achieve ... sustainability goals for our ...customers."
Part of the improvements will be a 2,000 watt solar array at one of the schools.
The agreement covers 45 city buildings and 15 schools.
Ameresco is based in Framingham, Mass.
Via: Ameresco LINK
I saw this sticker on a paper towel dispenser and wanted to know more about it. It seems this was a grass roots effort that seems to work. From their website ... " ... From our field testing, each sticker deployed saves about a tree's worth of paper (~100 lbs.) a year. Crazy, isn't it?" and saves about 29% per year in paper.
The idea is to use what you need but not more ... many folks grab lots of paper towels (same for napkins) and toss most unused into a trash can.
According to the blog site there are over 10,000 of these at Starbucks and 10,000 at McDondald. A typical coffee shop or fast food restaurant can use 1000 - 2000 lbs of paper towels a year. I saw "mine" at a local Starbucks (I ask for my coffee in a reusable ceramic mug or my reusable thermos !)
If you are looking for a way to green your office or work site consider buying a few ... !
Be Green and make a difference.
Via: These Come From Trees Blog LINK
"Joule's Helioculture™ platform combines ... sunlight and waste CO2 directly into clean, fungible diesel fuel, bypassing the limitations of biofuel production...."
" ... SolarConverter® ... scaling to desired output levels with no dependence on raw material feedstocks, agricultural land, fresh water or crops."
Joule's "platform" makes fuel from sun and CO2 w/o biomass or raw materials. Basically they have engineered organisms that take in CO2, water and sunlight and spit out bio-fuel - basically unlimited fuel.
Joule has it HQ in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Via: Joule Unlimited, Inc. LINK
The Dow Chemical Company and Cobblestone homes have collaborated to build Michigan's FIRST Net Zero Energy Home. The home uses techniques like "...insulation, sealants, geothermal heating and solar generation."
The home is @ 3118 Summerhill, Bay City, Michigan LINK
This home showcases some cutting edge technologies ... but all homeowners can make a positive energy impact on their homes but choosing CFL or LED for lighting, and making sure storm windows fit ... and of course using the right amount of insulation.
Via: Vision Zero Home LINK
Google Translated from German ...
The VW microbus may come back as a 6 seat all-electric called "Bulli". " ... maximum utilization of space ... driven ... by a powerful electric motor or alternatively efficient gasoline and diesel direct injection engines ..."
See picture of concept car at left ...
Via: Volkswagen LINK
Vovlo plans to introduce a V60 wagon that is the WORLD's FIRST Diesel Plug In Hybrid.
" ... enables the driver to select from one of three modes of propulsion: Pure for electric drive, Hybrid for alternating propulsion and Power for an extra boost from both.”"
The car is to be launched in Europe in 2012 ... no timing was announced for US import.
Via: US News LINK
Enerkem turns waste to biofuels and chemicals ..." converts residual materials, such as non-recyclable municipal solid waste, into clean transportation fuels, advanced chemicals and green electricity."
Enerkem's technology eliminates waste products and turn otherwise unusable materials into useful products.
Enerkem has 2 facilities in Canada and is developing one on Mississippi with funds from the US DOE.
CLICK to see a schematic of the process.
Via: Enerkem LINK
I saw these multi-stream recycling stations all over the Philadelphia International Airport.
In one easy to use spot you can recycle glass, cans and plastic (most commonly recycled materials). Very handy with nice appeal to help folks recycle whi
le not at home or the office. If you make it easy folks will recycle.
"Envyrozone ... believe in LOHAS, a Lifestyle of Health and Sustainability, ... a core principal that we bring to every customer relationship."
Via: Envyrozone LINK
Kigo uses CYCLEPET for some of its shoes ... CYCLEPET is made from Post Consumer PET (#1 PE).
"PET ... most important raw material in the textile industry."
Using recycled POST Consumer PET keep plastic out of landfills and reduces the need to use petroleum for new PET.
"kigo footwear uppers, lining and packaging are all crafted from recycled elements. ... CYCLEPET – plastic jugs are [turned] into strong, soft fabric. ..."
My son showed me this neat green packaging product ...
Companies are looking to reduce the environmental footprint of their packaging materials and are moving away from foamed PP and PS.
Using a green packaging material is a great differentiator and can minimize the downstream waste that is generated as part of the product life cycle.
"EcoCradle™ ... made of agricultural byproducts ... from renewable sources. ... is just as reliable, easy to use,
and affordable ..."
" ... literally grown, ... uses a filamentous fungi (mushroom roots) to bond this packaging into almost any shape. ..."
When it comes time to dispose of this packaging material you can break it into small pices and add to your garden, put it in a compost pile or even throw it in the trash where it will decompose EVEN WITHOUT oxygen !
Kigo embraces the reduce, reuse, recycle approach ... 
"... aspires to be responsible throughout the entire lifecycle of our shoes so our team and all who wear our shoes can leave a positi
ve...Footprint
They support telecommuting (lowers carbon footprint and saves resources) ... use recycled packaging and plastic for shoe fabrics (reduce, reuse, recycle) and use ony enough packaging to protect their shows (reduce).
Via: Kigo LINK
What makes a Super Bowl (or any party) GREEN ?
Use technology to send invitations (no paper wasted). Buy local foods (minimize your carbon footprint). Buy foods that use alternative energy .
For invitations use " ... Evite or MyPunchBowl ..."
For beer try New Belguim " ... brewery is wind powered! ..." and they are green in many other ways
For serving use real plates or at least real flatware / tableware ... to get a mix of easy to clean and minimize some trash.
Via: Fun Time Guide to Living Green LINK
Syracuse University students worked with consultants to create an eco friendly green office at the University's Smith Hall.
“
… teams of ISD 351 students in the College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) presented their green office designs to Syracuse University’s Sustainability Division on Oct. 18. The designs were unique and highly creative. …”
See the video for more details …
Via:LINK
Prysm Laser Phosphor Display (LPD) technology uses significantly less energy than other large format displays.
"... Unlike traditional technology that wastes light with filters and layers, LPD uses a patented Laser Engine to convert low-power, solid-state lasers into pure light. "
" ... Fundamentally different from LED or LCD-based display technology ... the industry’s smallest environmental footprint. ..."
Via: PRYSM LINK
There can be a lot of "energy" hidden in waste materials and land-filling is not a good solution ... it takes up limited landfill space and can be expensive ... waste minimization or W2E is often a better choice.
A turn-key W2E systems can be just the thing you need ... 
IST Energy manufactures systems that can convert trash to energy (electricity and heat). The integrated systems can turn " ... paper, wood, plastic, agriculture waste, and food into electricity and heat."
" ... transformation ... within a self-contained, modular environment designed for ease of operation and maintenance."
Via: IST Energy LINK
Naked® Juice is the first nationally distributed brand to have a" ...100% post-consumer recycled PET (rPET) bottle..."
The new bottles are called the "Naked reNEWabottle" ... and in addition to being made with recycled material are 100% recyclable PET (codes as #1).
The amount of virgin plastic replaced with the 32-oz bottle is 1 millions lbs / yr and when used across the product line will amount to 8.1 million lbs / yr.
Via: Naked Juice LINK
Sprint is developing a standard for green phones called eco-criteria. Manufacturers who meet the standards will be able to use the eco-criteria symbol on the phone … scoring “points” for both Sprint and the manufacturer with the green community.
This is a natural extension of their other ongoing “green” initiatives.
The standard sets categories and as total point level required to be green. The categories are “Reduction of Environmentally Sensitive Materials (ROH), Energy Management, Lifecycle Management, Sustainable Packaging, Eco-Friendly Applications and Innovation.
Points are awared for " ... RoHS Compliance, low levels of PVC, BFRs, Phthalates, Beryllium ... Energy Star qualification ... High recyclability rate, recycling envelop included in box, standardized connector, recycled plastic or renewably sourced plastic content ..."
There are 115 available points and 70 or more are required for the eco-criteria logo.
Via: Sprint LINK
A "hotel" in Madrid has been built completely from waste materials.
Showing both what can be done to re-purpose items and potentially how dirty beaches are the "... walls of the Beach Garbage Hotel ... made of materials found in landfills, the beaches and even flea markets ..."
" ... created the Beach Garbage Hotel because the ocea
ns of our planet are the biggest garbage dump ... 30-40% of the objects used for the hotel were found on the beaches of Britain, France, Germany, Italy and Spain ..."
The temporary "hotel" closes soon (Jan 23rd) so book soon if interested!
Via: Huffington Post LINK
The Army and its operations are energy intensive. Getting energy to remote or war ravaged areas is both expensive and dangerous.
The Army is looking into tents that incorporate PV solar panels that can be used to charge batteries and small electronics like computers. In addition to not having to bring in fuel they can travel lighter by not needing a generator (or a smaller one).
Using " ... Flexible Photovoltaics (PV), ... convert light energy into electricity ... ideal for charging up batteries, making sure your (communications), night vision goggles and computers are powered ..."
The key is technology that makes PV "panels" flexible so they are lightweight and foldable / packable. While still in the testing phase they may be deployed soon.
Via: US Army LINK
.jpg "Motorola Citrus(TM)")
The Motorola Citrus is one green cell phone. Showing that consumers want green items the phone advertises an “eco-friendly design that is carbon free and made in part with 25% recycled plastic” If you want / need a cell phone why not look for one that allows you to consider the individuals impact on the environment.
“ carbon free through a partnership with carbonfund.org; eco-friendly packaging” are also noted.
Less waste in packaging, lower toxic materials add up to a more environmentally friendly product.
Via: Motorola LINK
Alchemy's mission "is top turn useless into useful" They reuse / recycle / up-cycle inner tubes and seat belts to make wallets, belts, bottle openers and messenger bags.
They partner with REI and Trek to take back and recycle inner tubes. You can even take your used inner tubes to REI or 
a Trek store for recycling.
Each product has a small number to the left of and above the Alchemy Goods logo. That number indicates the % b y weight of up-cycled material in the product.
" ... Alchemy Goods bags are, ... recycled. ... we hope you’ll also appreciate our effort to work with recycled materials. Purchase Alchemy bags knowing that you’ve helped limit the consumption of Earth’s natural resources. ..."
Via: Alchemy Goods LINK
bluesign® is a standard for the textile industry that provides a framework for all aspects of the textile process. This standard goes beyond what many companies had developed on their own … and is recognized as the “gold standard” for the textile business. Many outdoor / sporting goods manufactures are supporting this standard including North Face and REI.
“ …exclude substances, which are potentially hazardous to the human health or the environment … independent standard … can be applied to the entire production chain and that delivers certainty at all levels … leading the way to a successful and healthy textile future …”
Check out this YouTube Video …
Via: bluesign LINK
I saw a trailer
in a parking lot with the Sustainable Waste Solutions and knew there would be a blog post there. SWS is a local company with a Souderton, Pa address that turns waste to energy (W2E).
" ... a landfill-free alternative for recycling, waste transportation, and disposal to companies ... throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania, Lehigh Valley and Delaware. ... we generate enoug
h electricity from waste to power tens of thousands of homes per day ..."
W2E burns waste material to generate electric and results in waste that is only 10% by volume compared to the starting amount.
Until we run out of trash this is a renewable energy solution!
See SWS website for more details ...
Via: Sustainable Waste Solutions LINK
Kristianstad Swede
n uses no fossil fuels for heating. Instead they uses biomass from farming leftovers. 80,000 homes heated by biomass and not fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas! And this is an area of the world where it gets VERY COLD !
Since solar and wind would not be effective in Kristianstad they worked with biomass. " ... remains from farming ... manure, potato peels, pig intestines, and even cookies, .... to create biogas ... a certain type of methane, ... heat of the entire city, and to provide electricity for the city as well."
The driving force for the move away from fossil fuels was to protect their environment and they did not want to import fossil fules from abroad.
Via: Metrolic LINK
Philadelphia wants to get 20 % of its electricity from renewable sources by 2015.
" ... Solar City Partnership will develop a strategy through which 2.3 MW of solar electricity will be generated within the city of Philadelphia by 2011 and 57.8 MW by 2021... "
The Solar City Partnership is a JV between the U.S. Department of Energy and the City of Philadelphia.
Two Systems under consideration are ...
- a 900,000 kWh solar system at the Naval Yard.
- installations at city owned water treatment facilities (Philadelphia Water Department).
Via: Phila.Gov LINK
The computer has not eliminated paper and printing has a huge impact on the environment ... paper, ink / toner, electricity ... and then the waste once the printed item is no longer needed.
" ... tendency to print is not diminishing, ... solution should not try to change the printing increase trend, but suggests means to alleviate its impact on the environment. "
" ... PretonSaver™ reduces the surplus consumables which are not required to produce high quality “fit for the purpose business documents” ... "
To see some details on the impact of printing on the environment in terms of GHG, waste sent to landfills and the like ... CLICK.
Via: Preton LINK
Burt's Bees is known for their environmentally friendly products. They are also an environmentally friendly company.
" ... goal is to be the "greenest personal care company on earth." ... by 2020 ... be carbon free and operating on 100 percent renewable energy ... [no] waste to be deposited in landfills ... manufacturing facilities will have LEED certification. ..."
They plan on having a Platinum LEED green building by 2020 ... and recycle recycle wood, shrink wrap, and even waste water.
In addition to the usual paper and aluminum they recycle wood, corrugated cardboard, shrink wrap chipboard and fiberboard. Break rooms are equipped with composting bins and reusable / compostable utensils.
Via: Burt's Bees LINK
According to the Scott's web site 17 billion toilet tissue tubes are thrown away each year ..." That's enough to fill the Empire Sta Building. Twice". Or 20 747s.
That is a serious waste of a natural resource. Scott Naturals™ Tube-Free are made without the cardboard core and are helping to reduce waste and save natural materials.
What a simple but great idea. Think of all the energy avoided by not manufactuing and then throwing away all those roll cores.
Something so simple can help individuals make an impact on the environment and save landfill space.
It is better to reduce than recycle or reuse!
Via: Scotts LINK
Samsung's Evergreen is one GREEN phone.
" ... built with recycled plastics, is hazardous substance free and comes with all sorts of eco-themed apps and tools ... packaging is green, made 80% of recycled paper and uses soy ink."
Via: Samsung LINK
PepsiCo and Waste Management are trying to increase the rate of plastic bottle recycling from the current 34 % to " 50 % by the year 2018.
A key tool may be the Dream Machine ... which has " ... a personal reward system that allows consumers to collect and redeem points for each bottle or can they recycle in the kiosk."
Currently about 12% of spaces have a recycling container. The Dream Machine will bring recycling to thousands of locatio
ns and facilitate recycling away from home - who wants to carry bottles home for recycling?
In case you are asking what you can do ... the numbers are are compelling for individuals to make a change. If each household in the country recycled just 3 more plastic bottles a month the result would be over 23 millions pounds diverted from landfills !
Wow! 3 more bottles a month - that is not hard to do !
Via: PepsiCo LINK
General Electric announced that they would purchase 25,000 EV by 2015. This is the largest EV purchase announced so far and will get GE closer towards their goal of having half their global fleet being EV by 2015.
"“By electrifying our own fleet, we will accelerate the adoption curve, drive scale, and move electric vehicles from anticipation to action.”"The plan is to buy 12,000 Chevy Volts (General Motors) starting in 2011 and then buy from other manufacturers as they are brfought to the market.
GE will initially purchase 12,000 GM vehicles, beginning with the Chevrolet Volt in 2011, and will add other vehicles as manufacturers bring them to market. By 2015 GE will convert at least half of its global fleet of 30,000 vehicles and will partner with its fleet customers to deploy a total of 25,000 EVs.
GE's Jeffery Immelt says ..." Wide-scale adoption of electric vehicles will also drive clean energy innovation, strengthen energy security and deliver economic value.”"
Via: GE LINK
Thinkeco has a way to find the energy wasters in your house. Appliances are big power users and can even draw power when "off". Some refer to this as vampire poser draws.
We sort of know that many electronic devises are drawing power all the time but also realize that it is not practical to unplug all you appliances when not in use; or even to be sure which are drawing the most power.
modlet solves this problem.
" ... plug the modlet into an existing electric outlet and plug your appliances into it. ... use your web browser to wirelessly monitor and manage your power consumption."
It is expected that the modlet can save 10 - 120% on your energy bill and pay for itself in 6 months. It is expected to be available for sale on-line and else where this year.
Via: thinkeco LINK
Sheldon Crossing in Manayunk (Philadelphia) Pa offers the latest in GREEN LIVING. In addition to being LEED certified they offer a Coulomb Technologies electric car charging station.
" ... will earn a Platinum LEED certification ... homes will use less energy, water, and natural resources ... " Features include " ... solar panels, vegetative green roofs, insulation, plumbing, HVAC, water purification and smart home automation ..."
The model home's Charging Station for electric vehicles is the first in the city of Philadelphia. Picture >>>>>
Via: Sheldon Crossing LINK and Philadelphia Inquirer LINK
Emerson's data center in Missouri is green ... boasting solar panels, design features to minimize wiring needed and reuse of construction waste.
" ... more than 550 solar panels can generate 100 kilowatts ... enough to power the average American home for more than three days ..."
" ... 80 percent of the construction waste ... diverted from landfills through recycling ... ."
LEED Gold from USGBC is expected.
Via: Emerson LINK
Ever wonder what the real impact of your purchase are ... the total environmental impact? GoodGuide - an app for the iPhone can help.
Scan the items bar code and GoodGuide does the rest ... " ... instant access to over 65,000 products and ratings at your fingertips. Check a product, see top-rated products in a category, and access your personalized recommended list to quickly find safe & healthy products."
For those w/o an iPhone you can use text messaging to get the same kind of information.
Text to: 41411. Start each message with gguide and the item name or of 12 digit UPC bar code.
Via: Good Guide LINK
Follow the simple directions on the bag and you could be on your way to saving 2000 gallons of water a year with Scott Smart Flush™. Smart Flush™ is a bag that sits in the water tank of the toilet and reduces each flush by 1 liter.
Currently available in 8 and 12 pack rolls of Scott Naturals.
This is a simple and for now free way to save water and money - and be GREEN.
Via: Scott LINK
in an environmentally friendly way so that it may be reused when needed? Research project will explore nano materials for energy storage purposes. DOE awards University
of Texas funding to pursue this objective. …
… “The goal of the project is to develop a fundamental understanding of how nanostructured materials can be used to improve all aspects of electrical storage, from energy density to power density to energy stored per dollar.
We will work toward developing solid-state electrical energy storage that is more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than current technologies … ” …
Via University of Texas at Dallas: Electrical Energy Storage Project.
Institute for Intelligent Energy Systems at UT Dallas.
GreenBuild 2010 " is in Chicago this Nov 17 - 19. It is a great chance to hear from industry experts about what is new in the greenspace for green buildings.
Did you know that Chicago was : ... one of the first cities to adopt LEED for public buildings and ... is home to more LEED-certified buildings than any other...
Check out the Video Link to see what collect students are doing in the green space.
Via: GreenBuild LINK
Amazon has a number of green initiatives ... including selling lots of green products.
As a very large shipper of goods they are in a great position to drive change in the industry ... and lead by example.
"Most Amazon.com orders are shipped in corrugated containers which on average contain 43% recovered fiber content. ... these containers are 100% recyclable ..."
Some products are fragile and need extra protection ... and are shipped with air filled bags or pillows ..." ... air-filled pillows ... are 100% recyclable and non-toxic. ..."
Via: Amazon LINK
One problem with alternative energy sources like solar and wind are that the peak consumption times are often not the same as the peak generation times. This issue plagues both commercial and residential generators. If the power cannot be stored it is wasted ...
Ice Energy provides one solution.
" ... can offset the need for peak generation, relieve summer transmission congestion, ... enable the reliable integration of renewable energy resources by reshaping the load on the system ..."
This solution can be combined with a/c units to significantly less energy than standard systems.
Via: Ice Energy LINK
Yusen Terminals, Inc has installed solar panels at a facility in the Port of Los Angeles. The specifics:
96 panels
11,800 kWh/yr
emissions reductions = planting close to 6 acres of trees
Live stats of power generation are available at LINK
Via: NYK Line LINK
Here are 10 quick things you can do to get your house in better shape for winter. Total time to complete is estimate to b e a weekend and costs are in the order of $100 making for a great return on time and investment.
Here are some highlights - "Change your furnace filters ... Insulate your pipes ... Caulk your windows ... Weather stripe your doors ... [get / install a] Programmable thermostat ..."
Do the ones you can yourself and save some money - consider a contractor if some arel. beyond your skill level. Each will make a difference to the environment and your energy bills.
While not on the list - do not forget to use CFLs or LED bulbs ... in my area (SouthEastern PA) they are reasonably inexpensive as they are subsidized (at least at the Home Depot) by PECO (local utility).
Via: SustainLane LINK
There is a lot of wind energy off the northeast seaboard ... but no good way to move it to consumers. Google is looking to change that with a new transmission line called the Atlantic Wind Connection (AWC).
" ... signed an agreement to invest in ... a backbone transmission project off the Mid-Atlantic coast ... helping to accelerate offshore wind development ..."
Expected to create thousands of jobs it will improve the reliability of the mid-Atlantic grid - so it’s both good business and good for the environment.
" ... will stretch 350 miles ... from New Jersey to Virginia ... able to connect 6,000MW of offshore wind turbines ..."
Via: Google blog LINK
BrightSourceEnergy builds, owns and operates cost effective large scale solar systems.
Unlike PV panels that convert sunlight directly to electricity ... their LPT 550 uses thousands of mirrors to focus light rays on a boiler at the top of a tower ... producing steam that drives a turbine to generate electricity. The system is closed loop and is cost competitive with oil and gas.
Via: BrightSourceEnergy LINK
Walmart is planning to add solar systems to an additional 20 - 30 in California and Arizona using new technology lower cost PV cells.
" ... leveraging our global scale to ... help develop markets for new technologies ... commitment to solving business challenges through technology."
The systems are expected to provide about 25 % of the total energy needs of each location.
Some details about the systems:
- can product up to 22.5 kW / yr - equiv to the energy needed for 1750 home / yr
- avoid 11,650 metric tons CO2 - equiv to 3000 cars
The technology planned includes gallium selenide and cadmium terruride films and are exected to use less raw materials then earlier versions of PV cells.
SolarCity will do the design work as well as install, own and maintain the systems.
Here is a chgecklist (pdf format) from the University of Texas at Austin. lf, your team, your home, whatver.
While there is no scale or rating given the checklist offers a wide range of things to look at in your quest to be greener ... in your daily life.
Assess yourself now as a baseline and then in a few months to see what kind of progress you have made.
" ... self-assessment form covers offices, conference rooms, common areas, etc. "
Via: University of Texas at Austin Office of Sustainability LINK
Today is the last day of the North American Offshore Wind Conference & Exhibition in Atlantic City, NJ. It is an appropriate location as there are wind turbines in Atlantic City.
" ... only event of its kind that truly brings together the thought-leaders of the wind industry for a dialogue on offshore wind development ..."
" ... will identify development opportunities throughout the coastal regions of North America, financing options and challenges, plus project design and siting options."
Via: Offshore Wind Conference and Exhibition LINK
Dog waste is often picked up in plastic bags and dropped in the trash - to spend eternity in a landfill. What a waste of waste ...
Here is a novel idea to turn dog waste into methane ... "dog waste ... decomposes over time. The anaerobic conditions inside the digester create methane gas ... " The methane gas lights a gas lamp.
If successful this could be deployed to larger dog parks across the country.
Funded by MIT and located in Cambridge, Mass the digester shows a creative use for waste .. a great "reuse" idea.
Via: TerraPass Blog LINK
The White House is going SOLAR.
Seeking to lead by example ... solar panels for electricity and a solar water heater for the White House residence will go on the roof of the White House.
" ... part of a Department of Energy demonstration project showing that American solar technologies are available, reliable, and ready for installation in homes throughout the country ..."
" ... reflects President Obama’s strong commitment to U.S. leadership in solar energy ..."
It was not reported if President Obama will get the federal tax credit for the solar system :-)
Via: WhiteHouse.Gov LINK
Home Power Magazine is full of ideas on renewable energy for home owners and professionals.
" ... information exchange has helped create an industry with ... a common goal: reducing the use of polluting fossil fuels and replacing ... with the infinite supplies of renewable energy that surround us. ..."
Issues have covered subjects including " ... solar, wind, and microhydro electricity, energy efficiency, solar hot water systems, space heating and cooling, energy-efficient building materials and home design, ..." and more.
Via: Home Power Magazine LINK
Two Particular Acres is PA's first composting farm and has PA's first "On-Farm Compost Permit".
Noticing that the "manure management" on horse stables that were buying their hay was "less than optimal" they decided to address the issue.
" ... creating an organic loop infrastructure ... manure is properly composted ... finished product is distributed through util
ization on our farm and ... into the local community through suburban homeowners, landscape contractors, nurseries and golf courses. ..."
Via: Two Particular Acres LINK
The CityCar is an EV designed to take up minimum space while parked. This is achieved by "folding" the car. Instead of the engine and drive train of a gas powered car the drive components are in each wheel eliminating the need for a long rigid structure for the exhaust pipe or drive train components.
" ... weighs less than a thousand pounds, get the equivalent of 150 to 200 miles per gallon of gasoline. ... no tailpipe emissions."
" .. powered by four in-wheel electric motors ... enables maneuvers like spinning on its own axis ... moving sideways ... "
" ... park nose-in to the curb in ... possible to park three or four CityCars in the length of a traditional parking bay."
Via: MIT LINK
Lafayette College students have a program underway with the end goal of reducing by 1,000 lbs / day the amount of food scraps sent to landfill. The composted food will be turned to compost and used in the college gardens. Full cycle back to the kitchen !
oval for use in the gardens.As this is being done on a large scale some special equipment homeowners might not need was required ... " ... two industrial-strength food pulpers that pulverize food remains ... " were needed.
Via: Morning Call LINK
Cement manufacturing is an energy intensive process and typically generates LOTS of CO2. It is estimated that cement manufacture produces 5% of global CO2 !
The challenge for the developing world (and the developed world) is how to make cement and not make so much CO2.
"... carbon negative cement ... based on a non-carbonate raw material, magnesium silicate, and uses a relatively low temperature production process. ... more CO2 is absorbed during production than ...emitted"
Substituting a ton of Novacem in place of standard cement would avoid 852 kg of CO2 emissions.
Novacem is based in the UK.
Via: Novacem LINK
Beyond Low Energy homes are Zero Energy Homes (ZEH). Using technology including geothermal heating and cooling, PV panels, heat recovery ventilation and super insulation and high efficiency windows the homes in Green Acres (New Paltz NY) may be the first ZEH in the world.
" ... first zero energy (ZEH) community in the United States and possibly the world..."
" ... each home has the capacity to generate enough renewable energy to offset its annual energy needs. ..."
Via: Green Acres New Paltz (NY) LINK
Bank of America's One Bryant Park in Manhattan NYC has achieved LEED Platinum certification. This is a first for a US high rise commercial building - achieving LEED platinum.
" ... glass curtain wall permits maximum sunlight ... under-floor air delivery system ... power comes from an on-site cogeneration plant, which works in concert with an ice storage system ..."
The building reuses most all rainwater and sink water saving millions of gallons of potable water yearly.
Via: Bank of America LINK
Solar power for consumers has lots going for it ... renewable energy, clean power, being green ... and one near term stumbling block --- cost. Most systems are EXPENSIVE for the initial capiital outlay.
Clarian Power Inc may be able to help lower the price with both affordable and easy to install (DIY type install) products. Payback can be 3 - 4 years after factoring in rebates and credits.
"Sunfish™ is a plug-in solar power module that’s affordable and easy to install ... SmartBox™ technology allows homeowners to plug solar power into an existing outlet ..."
Via: Clarian Power Inc. LINK
NYK's (Nippon Yusen Kaisha) Yamatai will have a unique method to reduce CO2 ... by injecting air bubble at the bottom of the hull. This reduces drag between the hull and sea water. The result is lower CO2 emissions.
" ... first vessel engaged in overseas transport to make use of a permanently installed air-lubrication system using an air-blower ... generate bubbles ... to the vessel bottom ... expected to result in 10 percent less CO2 emissions from the vessel."
Each year eBay hosts" ... Innovation Expo ... to develop prototypes for new products and breakthrough innovations ... ".
The winner this year developed " ... a durable box ... designed to be used over and over and over.." Since may eBay buyers are also sellers the box would have many "lives" before no longer being usable.
" ... reused at least five times, we could protect nearly 4,000 trees, save 2.4 million gallons of water ..."
Via: eBay LINK
Gazelle provides a safe, easy way to implement the 3Rs for old electronics like cell phones, monitors, calculators, camera lenses, laptops, external drives ... see their website for complete details.
They match goods to sellers (if the item has sufficient demand and is in acceptable condition) or arranges for safe and responsible e-recycling. In addition to keeping e-waste out of landfills you might even get some cash !
" ... easy, fast, and safe way for you to sell electronics and recycle electronics. ... process takes about a week ... Items without market value are recycled responsibly"
Via: Gazelle LINK
Eliminating waste sent to the landfill saves both money and the planet. Many GM plants " ... no longer send any production waste to landfills."
43 % send no production waste to landfills !
LINK to see plants by type and location.
The numbers are huge ... " ... 2 million tons ... will be recycled or reused ...additional 45,000 tons ... converted to energy at waste-to-energy facilities...."
Via: General Motors LINK
SunPower won several US Government contracts to install solar products for numerous agencies " ... Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Lab (NREL), the General Services Administration (GSA), the Navy and the Air Force. ... " These will create " ... more than 1000 local jobs during the construction ... represent a minimum of 20 megawatts (MW) of new solar projects ..."
One for the Air Force is to be the largest federal solar site in the US at Luke AFB in Glendale, Arizona.
SunPower is a leader in solar products and technology and was founded in 1988. They have worked with various federal agancies since 1999. They are listed on NASDAQ [SPWRA, SPWRB] and have their HQ in San Jose, California.
Via: SunPower LINK
Most municipalities accept #1 - PET and #2 - HDPE plastics for recycling. Philadelphia now accepts #3 
-#7 as well! This means #3 - Vinyl, #4 - LDPE, #5 - PP, #6 - PS and #7 - other / mixed.
" ... Philadelphia has citywide single stream recycling. ... all recyclables can be put in the same container, including plastics and cardboard." This makes it easier for residents and business as there is no more sorting into different containers at home.
There is even a section about debunking Phila Recycling Myths ... that gives the real info on recycling in the City.
Check out the web site for information you can use no matter where you live !
Via: Recycle Now Philadelphia LINK
Lennar builds the PowerSmart home in several states. These homes have efficiency and energy savings build it.
" ... PowerSmart home by Lennar. ... green home designed to save you money while ... saving the environment. ..."
Via: Lennar ™ LINK
Poland Spring has been actively reducing the amount of plastic in its water bottles. Less plastic means less enerfy to make, less energy to ship and less impact overall. Of course recycling the bottles completes the loop.
" ... Eco-Shape® bottle ... made with an average of 30% less plastic ... a label approximately one-third smaller ... more flexible so it's easier to crush for recycling. ..."
The label notes that the cap is also smaller ... resulting in less plastic !
Via: Poland Spring LINK
Via: Solar Roadway™ LINK
Las Vegas is well known for the Strip and night life ... it is also becoming known for Sustainability.
Las Vegas has a number of sustainability initiatives underway ... the City's Sustainability Web site lists a number of information resources for learning about and implementing sustainability. Topics listed include Green Building, Recycling and Energy Efficiency.
There are also programs for low income families and incentives to build green (new or retrofits).
" ... pilot program with Green Chip ... to perform energy audits and retrofits for ... qualifying low income households ... "
" ... expanded its Green Building Program ... incentives to stimulate new green building construction and provide energy efficiency retrofits to existing buildings ..."
Via: Sustaining Las Vegas LINK
Plastics and fibers made from renewable agricultural products can reduce our dependency on oil and petrochemicals.
" ... Sorona® is made partially with agricultural feedstocks ... reduc
ing our dependency on oil. In addition to fibers and fabrics, Sorona® can be used in films, filaments, engineering resins and other applications."
" ... contains 37% renewably sourced ingredients by weight."
Via: DuPont LINK
When buying Viva Terra products you have the option to purchase carbon offsets for the delivery of your order. " ... reduce the environmental impact ... by selecting EarthEra® ... For ... $1 per order, customers balance the carbon emissions associated with the delivery of their purchases ..." " ... EarthEra is powered by NextEra Energy Resources, America's largest producer of wind and solar power."
Via: Viva Terra LINK
EcoMotors International has developed the OPOC engine - opposed-piston opposed-cylinder engine. This engine can run on a number of fuels and is lighter in weight and produces more power than a conventional engine.
The engine has 2 pistons per cylinder and multiple "units" can be coupled for a more powerful engine.
" ... demonstrate, in 2010, the automobile industry's first 5-passenger car capable of 100 mpg on the EPA highway cycle."
" ... ground-breaking internal combustion engine ... eliminates the cylinder-head and valve-train components ... lighter, more efficient and economical, with lower exhaust emissions compared with conventional designs...."
Via: EcoMotors International LINK
Viva Terra's Mad Mats®are made from recycled plastics.
" ... Mad Mats® are made from recycled plastic bottles and packing materials ... absorb no stains, can easily be cleaned with garden hose or sponge, and won't trap water or mildew. ..."
For an additional $1 in shipping fees you can offset the carbon impact from shipping. Details on the Viva Terra web site under shipping.
Via: Viva Terra LINK
The EPA has statistics on who uses the most renewable energy. For the nation as a whole the biggest users are found in the Top 50 ... first by kWh is Intel with 51% of its total electric use and second by kWh is Kohl's department store at 100 % of its total electric use!! 
" ... Green Power Partnership works [to] ... reduce the environmental impacts of electricity use "
" ... top 50 largest purchases amount to more than 12.3 billion kilowatt-hours annually, ... more than 70 percent of the green power commitments made by all EPA Green Power Partners."
Via: EPA LINK
San Diego is currently in a Level 2 - Drought Alert Condition. San Diego imports over 80% of its water so when water supplies get tight water conservation and reuse is critical. Two new plants provide for 45 million gallons / day of water from waste ...
" ... has built ... plants [to] treat wastewater to a level that is approved for irrigation
, manufacturing and other non-drinking, or non-potable purposes. ... Recycled water gives San Diego a dependable, year-round, locally controlled water resource."
Via: The City of San Diego LINK
The University of San Francisco has a Green Team that focuses on sustainability. One interesting outcome was to modify water fountains so they more easily fill water bottles - helping to foster using a reusable bottle.
" ... reduce the ... use of plastic water bottles by using refillable bottles and drinking tap water. ... switching to compostable flatware to assist the composting program ... starting composting in the residence halls ..."
Via: University of San Francisco LINK
The auto marketplace has been eagerly waiting official pricing for the Chevy Volt - an all electric auto. Unlike hybrids with a gas engine that provides additional HP for motion the Volt engine does not directly drive the wheels but recharges the battery.
Pricing is approx. $41,000 before a federal tax credit of $7,500 resulting in $33,500 to the consumer.
" ... uses gas to create its own electricity. ... run on a pure electric charge for up to 40 miles ... gas and emissions free. ... uses a range-extending gas generator that produces enough energy to power it for hundreds of miles on a single tank of gas. "
Via: Chevrolet LINK
Howard University, Washington, DC, has entered into a partnership with Parento Energy to create a microgrid for the university campus.
Mircogrid growth is being driven by concerns about the robustness of the national energy infrastructure as well as green jobs and green technology growth. Along with the smart grid they are seen as the futur
e way power will be brought to users.
" ... Microgrids are decentralized power systems that often utilize renewable energy, ... "
" ... will support critical infrastructure ... while greatly reducing the carbon footprint ... will utilize highly efficient cogeneration technologies ..."
Via: Howard University LINK
S
ometimes being green really is plain and simply easy -- low or now cost and with little downside. There are lots of little things that taken together, over time can really add up.
Check out these and other great idea from Earth911.com ...
Here are 3 ...
(1) Skip the drive through and park ... " ... every minute the average car engine idles, it emits 6 to 7 grams of pollutants into the atmosphere. ... " Taken collectively for say a millions cars over the period of a year and you reduce / eliminate over 700 tons of emissions. You also save a lot of gas and money ... and get some exercise !
(2) Pay your bills on-line ... " .. reduce your household’s paper consumption ... eliminate paper waste ..."
(3) Turn stuff off ... not just lights that are on when no one is in the room but electronics. Many devices are actually sucking power in standby mode and not actually "off". " ... Even a cell phone charger continues to use energy when plugged in, whether your cell phone is charging or not. ... " This often called phantom power users because many electronic devices are drawing power in standby mode and collectively that adds up. Save money, reduce the demand for power and keep the air cleaner. For your computer consider plugging all the electronics into a single power strip and with one switch you can turn off a PC, printer, monitor and other devices.
Via: Earth911.com LINK
GREENandSAVE has a Website and Blog with lots of good "green" information. In addition to tips to increase your "individual green-ness" there are links to many green items in the news including green job training.
Check out the Experts Tip section for lots of ideas you can use to save energy, money and the planet. Tips I found include ways to save water this summer and ideas for a greener Christmas.
... strives to inform the public about eco-conscious living, environmental matters, ... feature daily news, information and blogs ... mission is to expand readers’ awareness of environmentally conscious efforts ... and encourage participation."
Via: Green and Save LINK
Some retailers are promoting their Green-ness and Sustainability with measures of their products on the environment. One the quickly comes to mind is Timberland. Timberland has a label on all their shoe boxes that tells the environmental impact and how it breaks down by shipping, raw materials, manufacture, etc.
While very informative and helpful there is still no meaningful way to compare across manufacturers ... much like the federal EPA stickers for cars.
That is about to change ...
" ... some 100 retailers ... working together to minimize their impact on the environment, ... measure environmental factors, from creating a product right through its disposal."
" ... the "Eco Index," ... hope ... will become as recognizable on clothing as Energy Star is on appliances. ..."
Via: Brand Channel LINK
The oceans and the power of the waves and tides waves might be the source of your electricity someday. Systems that can convert the constant undulation of the waves into energy can harness what seems like an unlimited renewable energy source.
"... potential to be one of the most environmentally benign forms of electricity generation ... wave energy around the British Isles ... estimated to be equivalent to three times current UK electricity demand, ..."
Pelamis are minimally impactful ... their visual impact is small as they are half submerged so are not nearly as visibly on the horizon as wind trubines. They appear to have minimal impact on marine life as well and can be removed much easier than a wind turbine.
They currently have installations undergoing tests in Portugal and Scotland.
Pelamis has their HQ in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Via: Pelamis Wave Power LINK
Braxton's in Devon, PA (western suburbs of Philadelphia) is a 3rd generation family business. We buy a lot of our dog stuff there ... one day I noticed a sign outside touting their "
green-ness" by installing LED lighting.
Their lighting solution came from LED Saving Solutions of Devon, PA..
After installing LED lighting their electric bill went from over $750 / month to around $100 / month. Projected lifetime savings are over $260,000 as well as eliminating 100,00 lbs of carbon emissions.
Philadelphia is becoming well known for its green activities ... including solar powered compacting trash bins that can signal when they are full and need to be emptied.
They are also upgrading standard traffic signals with ones that contain LED light "bulbs". LEDs are even more energy efficient and longer lasting than CFBs - and do not contain any mercury.
" ... funding through the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG). ... reducing energy use and costs, ... and furthering the City’s sustainability priorities."
"Replacing 85,000 traffic lights with new, low energy LED lights."
Via: Phila.gov LINK
" .. goal ... to be the premier research facility in the world focused on the economic, technical, and public policy issues associated with the development and deployment of solar energy to meet global energy needs and environmental challenges."
" ... through independent research, soliciting and funding internal and external research proposals on defined topics and responding to outside requests for proposals that fit the Solar Institute's objectives.
VIA: The GW Solar Institute LINK
The Philadelphia Bourse 
has gone Solar. The old Bourse Building on Independence Mall East has solar panels from SolarDock of Wilmington, Delaware. These roof panels are designed to not impact the integrity of the roof of the historic building.
" ... SolarDock system for mounting the panels without any penetration of the roof surface ... "
This allows mounting in locations where there is concern about leaks in the roof or a roof warranty that does not allow for through roof mounts. Via: Delaware Business Blog LINK
IBM has developed a water cooled supercomputer that uses the extracted heat to heat a building. Normally A/C is needed to remove the excess heat to prevent damage to computer systems.
The A/C to remove heat can use almost as much or more energy than that used to power the computers ... resulting in lots of wasted energy and extra carbon footprint What a waste !!
" ... Aquasar, consumes up to 40 percent less energy than a comparable air-cooled machine. ... carbon footprint is reduced by up to 85 percent."
" ... micro-channel liquid coolers which are attached directly to the processors, where most heat is generated. ..."
"
Via: IBM LINK
I noticed the apples at my local Costco were packaged in plastic containers to keep the apples from bruising. What really intrigued me was the information on the plastic containers. Made by Peninsula Packaging of California ... they are:
- made from 70% recycled drink bottles
- made with 50% energy from the sun
" ... as much as 70 percent recycled ... are themselves recyclable ..."
" ... 10-acre photovoltaic "sun farm" generates 1.1 megawatts ... produces about one-percent of all of California's solar generated power."
Via: PenPack LINK
When in Hawaii you can rent a car from Bio-Beetle -their mission statement is " ... be the "GREENEST", and "BEST", rental car company
on the planet."
In addition to biodiesel from 100% vegetable oil they use " ... earth friendly coolants, synthetic engine oil and non toxic cleaners ... 100% recycled or tree free paper ... organic cotton uniforms, and recycled items when obtainable. ..."
Via: Eco-Beetle LINK
Want to be more green and not really sure where to start? Making good progress and want to kick it up a notch or two? Need inspiration or answers to questions ?
" ... goal ... to be the most comprehensive and diverse resource available for people looking to live ... environmentally conscious lifestyle. .... GenGreenLife.com where we have over 60,000 listings to help you live your green life. "
Via: GenGreen® LINK
Ever wonder how solar cells work? Sun light hits a photovoltaic panel and somehow electrons start flowing.
Check out this neat graphic that shows how suns rays are converted to power that flows from your home's outlets.
" ... Follow the path ... from the sun, through the pv panels, its conversion to AC electricity ... into the utility grid. ..."
ailed explanation of solar energy.
For a full size of the image CLICK
Via: CoolerPlanet LINK
Happy Father's Day.
Remember to incorporate some green ideas into your celebration.
Enjoy the day and be green - they can go hand in hand. Teach as green lesson. Lead by example. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.
Use compostable plates or normal dishes instead of throw away paper plates. Use a gas grill instead of wood or charcoal (less GHG). Use local produce / meat / stuff. Watch your carbon footprint.
Happy Father's Day.
Via: GreenTechnolog.com LINK
My daily papers are rolled and covered with a plastic bags I noticed my newspapers were rolled in a new plastic bag before being tossed on my driveway. I noticed a neat new bag called green15™.
" ... every ... bag is made with at least 15% recycled material. ... allows us to use up to 15% less plastic ... join us to promote more recycled products & use less plastic ..."
Of course I collect these and recycle them at the local food store.
Via: Green15bags LINK
Timberland is well known for its green activities including putting a label on most shoes boxes that details the carbon impact of each product.
Their Earthkeeper line features products made to have a smaller environmental footprint ... usually from the user of recycled materials.
" ... Earthkeepers™ collection ... footwear with a small environmental footprint. ...rubber lug outsole made with 42% recycled Green Rubber™ material"
To learn more about green and the outdoors ... check out Timberland's Earthkeeper Blog
Via: Timberland LINK
Wallenius Lines, a Swedish owned car carrier vessel is testing a fuel cell for auxiliary power. Fuel cells are clean power sources - in this case fueled by methanol (alcohol). Wallenius Lines has a major commitment to being green (using non toxic paint to reduce barnacle drag, handling bilge water carefully, reducing impact overall, etc.) and this is the next step in the journey.
"Wärtsilä’s WFC20 fuel cell ... onboard the ’Undine’, ... is the first of its kind in the world ... during the test period provide auxiliary power to the vessel while producing close to zero emissions...."
Methanol can be made from biomass so can be a renewable fuel ... in addition to providing clean power. The trails started in May 2010 and extend until November 2010.
Via: Wallenius Lines LINK
Sustainability / Green Business Key to Ongoing Success ... many businesses are seeing sustainability and green as a lead to future growth or as a line extension to their current business offering.
The ""nice to have is becoming the "must have".
>>> Read on for more.
" ... SAP will not survive ... one decade from now if it fails to embrace sustainability principles end-to-end."
" ... Panasonic’s ... “Green Transformation 2012″ strategy ... become the world’s leader in green innovation ... "
Hitachi and Samsung have announced similar offerings / objectives.
Via: ZDNet LINK
Calstar bricks and pavers are targeted to the green market. Among their features are that they use recycled materials and generate less CO2 when produced and they are priced to b e competitive with their non-green competing products.
" ... architectural facing bricks and durable pavers for the green building market. ...contain 40% post-industrial recycled material, use 90%" less energy ... generate 90% less CO2 than traditional fired clay brick and pavers."
To hear move about the technology and sustainability ... CLICK
Via: Calstar LINK
