Follow the link below for some very easy ways to save energy, reduce your carbon footprint and green your lifestyle.
Here are some …
- wash laundry in cold water
- turn down the temperature on your water heater
- insulate your water heater
- use reusable shopping bags
- compost what you can
Via: Wise Bread LINK
Facebook is planning to launch an app that lets friends see who can use less energy at home. The app is from OPOWER and is expected to be available in early 2012.
“OPOWER … is working with Facebook and the Natural Resources Defense Council to create an app that will let people share data about how much -- or little -- electricity they're using at home.”
“ … app essentially builds on how OPOWER already works. …” POWER can download data from smart energy meters to give people a very detailed picture of their energy use and how it compares with others.The app is expected to be available early next year, according to Facebook and OPOWER.
Via: CNN LINK
A typical US household uses 120 barrels of oil and generates about 50 tons of CO2 a year !
The CO2 estimator in the the video below allows, you to model your carbon footprint based on where you live … so it looks at your energy use and how power in your region is generated. You can also see how your compare it to others in your region.
There are recommendations to to lower your carbon footprint if you want to give it a try.
Here is the link to the CO2 calculator …
Via: SmartPlanet LINK
Amazon engages its employees in sustainability but encourages its shareholders to keep its carbon footprint confidential. …
… “The program allows employees to suggest more ways in which the company can be environmentally conscious.” …
Via Time: Carbon Footprint.
e-Waste is a growing problem - one significant issue is that it is often taken to other nations for handling and improper or unsafe disposal.
The EPA and the United Nations University (UNN) are partnering to reduce pollution and health effects from improperly disposed e-waste. The EPA gave a 5 year 2.5 million USD grant to the UNN to help develop programs to " ... help authorities track shipments of
North American electronic waste and provide support to nations in both Africa and Asia coping with e-waste imports ..."
" ... improper disposal can threaten the health of local people and the environment ..."
Goals include better tracking of e-waste and better methods for refurbishment and safer disposal.
Via: EPA LINK
Orvis is known for it respect for the environment and environmental causes. For many years they have donated 5% of their before tax profits to protecting nature.
This earth day - TODAY MARCH 26th - they are encouraging people around the world to turn off their lights for an hour starting at 8:30 pm local time.
All Orvis stores will support Earth Hour ...." headquarters, retail stores, and rod shop in Vermont will go dark for the entire night of the 26th .. other retail stores will close early ... to turn off the lights at 8:30 p.m."
For more on Earth Hour LINK
Via: Orvis LINK
Earth Hour started in 2007 in Sydney Australia and is now a global phenomenon.
“ … This Earth Hour … go beyond the hour, so after the lights go back on think about what else you can do to make a difference. … Visit Beyond the Hour platform to share your stories and to get inspiration …”
Via: Earth Hour 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
Every HOUR 16,000 cell phones are thrown away. Sprint wants to keeps these out of landfills and has programs that make it easy for everyone to recycle (and not contribute to to e-waste) your cell phone and related accessories
Check out these 2 videos for more information on Sprint’s recycling programs …
Via: Sprint and You Tube
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
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
We all know to "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle "--- Want to learn more about recycling? Are you doing all your can? Do you have questions ... ?
" ... here to help answer your questions and help make recycling easier, more fun, and even profitable. ... simply give you practical information so that you can do your part."
Recycling is easy and there just might be more you can do with little effort involved ... check it out.
Be sure to check out >>> the "Greener Choices Search Engine"
Via: Recycling Revolution 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
Newsweek highlights its green enterprise rankings as companies embrace sustainable business models to differentiate in their markets. …
… “Dell called Swartz (Timberland) and explained his theories of environmentalism and frugality: that minimizing waste is good for the bottom line. ” …
Via Newsweek: Green Rankings.
Streetline uses software and sensors to adjust parking meter pricing to reduce cars circling for parking spaces. It is estimated that up to 30 % of carbon emissions are caused once a car is in the city - circling for a cheap parking space at a parking meter. When meter prices are close to the rate of a parking lot the incentive to keep driving looking for a cheap meter spot goes way down ... as does wasted fuel and emissions and Co2.
" ... estimated that 30% of urban traffic congestion is caused by drivers looking for parking. ... reducing congestion ... makes finding a parking space that much easier. ..."
Via: Streetine LINK
EPA Fuel Economy stickers are on all new cars and light trucks and ahve been for decades. They list the city and highway mpg as well expected annual feul costs and some information about emissions.
The EPA is now looking to modify (again) the labels ... to allow meaningful comparisons between newer type vehicles ... such as hybrids where MPG does not really apply. They might group cars by letters like A, B, and C.
" .. provide ... simple, straightforward energy and environmental comparisons across all vehicles types, including electric vehicles (EV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV), and conventional gasoline/diesel vehicles. ... information, such as ratings on fuel economy, greenhouse gas emissions, and other air pollutants ..."
Check out the labels and GIVE YOUR comments ... View / Comment on Proposed LABELS.Via: EPA 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
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
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
This all started when I was looking for a "green" way to dispose of an microwave ... that was broken. My local trash hauler /recycler suggested earth911 ... so I looked there for an idea ... none was found ... BUT ... I found some neat suggestions on recycling plastics.
I am currently recycling #1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6 and some #7 plastics that are marked as recyclable but you never know when you might find something new.
Most communities now pick up #2 and $ 4 plastic bottles and most grocery stores take #2 and #4 plastic bags. But what about the reset ... those #5 yogurt cups and # 6 food containers?
Via: Earth911 LINK
UPS ' sustainability efforts are well known. Perhaps you have seen their hybrid delivery trucks - sporting their neat hybrid logo. I have seen them on the streets of Philadelphia.
UPS is also a leader in recycling. In addition to paper they recycle batteries and e-waste; which is fast becoming a problem due to the rapid rate of obsolescence of computers and cell phones. e-waste contains significant toxins including lead.
" ... "e-waste" ... a significant global problem. ... UPS recycled 27,753 pounds of batteries in 2008. This included nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydride, lithium iron, ... implemented its own e-waste recycling program ... has recycled more than 24.5 million pounds of electronic equipment."
VIA: UPS 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
Bon Appétit Management Company provides food services at colleges and universities at over 400 locations across 29 states. They are serious about cutting their carbon footprint and are using education and tools like the "Low Carbon Diet Calculator" to help consumers understand the role they play.
" ... beef and cheese are high carbon foods because they come from cows and cows emit methane gas, which is 23 times more potent than carbon dioxide...."
You can check the carbon impact of your food choices with the Low Carbon Diet Calculator. You can experiment with various options such as a cheeseburger vs. a turkey cheeseburger or an omelet with vegetables vs. an omelet with meet and cheese.
An omelet with meat and cheese has a carbon value of 1573 while one with vegetables has a carbon value of 750.
A cheeseburger has a carbon value of 3609 while a turkey burger has a carbon value of 1480.
Use your new found knowledge to choose wisely to reduce your carbon impact !!
Via: Bon Appetit LINK
Boeing focuses its supply chain environmental improvement on educating the supplier base and collaborating through the supply chain to reduce the overall carbon footprint. …
… “Our life cycle approach to the environment starts with our global supply chain. In 2010, Boeing employees will lead more than 400 workshops educating suppliers about ways to reduce emissions and cut back on the amount of materials sent to landfills. Later this year, we will introduce new contracting provisions establishing suppliers’ environmental initiatives as a key factor in doing business with Boeing. The next step is to work with other major aerospace companies to establish a recognized environmental standard for our global supply base. We have begun these discussions and hope to report meaningful progress in the coming year. ” …
Via Boeing: 2010 Environmental Report (PDF).
Ready to drink once used water? Folks in Cloudcroft, NM do - every day !
Cloudcroft NM runs 100% on recycled water. From soup to nuts - washing to drinking ... toilet to tap !
" ... a town of ... 800 ... used to ... truck in upwards of 20,000 gallons of fresh water every day. ... got $600,000 from the state to put toward a $2 million water re-use system."
" ...“zero discharge” system is very unusual ... people tend get about phobic about the idea of drinking water that has been used for some other purpose ... sort of system you might find on a submarine ... everything is ... closed-loop. ..."
" ... ITT technologies ... include the Sanitaire membrane bioreactor, the WET reverse osmosis system, and the PCI ultrafiltration system.
Via: SmartPlanet LINK
By now readers of this blog knows the importance of recycling and "how to do it". Most recycle paper, glass bottles, "tin" cans and #1 / #2 plastics.
Near my home is a recycling center that takes just about EVERYTHING. They take plastics labeled #1 - #6 as well as glass bottle caps, clean aluminum, #2, #4, #5 bottle caps, 6- pack rings, straws, credit / debit / gift cards (to be recycled) and scrap fabric. This great places is called Recycling Services, Inc. in Pottstown, Pa. (western Phila suburb).
What if you are not near Pottstown, Pa? 
" ... Nearly everything can be recycled, though it may take a little research on your part to find out how. ... First, you need to know what your town will recycle. ... For anything you'd like to recycle but won't be picked up by your town, ... A site like the National Recycling Coalition can help you locate an organization that will accept your recyclables. ..."
Today is the 40th anniversary of Earth Day !!
To learn more about Earth Day 2010 and things ** YOU ** can do ... LINK
Via: Earth Day 2010 LINK
Whether you are a landlord, run a bar or hotel there are things YOU can do to celebrate Earth Hour.
"Earth Hour 2010 is a global call to stand up, to show leadership and be responsible for our future. ..."
Show you support for Earth Hour by ... "Turning off your lights at 8.30PM on March 27 ... Adding Earth Hour widgets, logos and banners to your blog or website ...Get together with your friends and family, by hosting an Earth Hour party or holding your own candlelit affair ...Encourage your employer and workmates to take part in Earth Hour and make energy savings every day ... "
For the full list LINK
Via: Earth Hour LINK
To create the next generation of water heaters, GE rethought every aspect of this appliance from the ground up. The result is an innovative new product that can reduce water heater operating cost up to 62% and save $320 per year.* That adds up to significant savings, and you won't have to give up a single drop of hot water.
Via: GE LINK
Which is less carbon intensive: electic heat or wood stovfe heat?
The Sierra Club's "Hey Mr. Green" tells us ...it depends on the quality / newness of your wood stove and where the pollution ends up -- at a power plant or in your neighborhood. No easy answers but some good info.
" ... carbon footprint depends on the source of your electric power and the quality of your wood burner. ... power ... generated from coal or other fossil fuels ... footprint might be bigger than if you're burning wood in a new, efficient, EPA-approved firebox or stove. ..."
" ... wood burner ... releases a lot more other pollutants into the air ... releases them right where you and your neighbors breathe ... wood ... emits 250 times as much global-warming methane as burning coal in a power plant."
Via: Sierra Club LINK
Along the lines of which is better for the environment - paper or plastic bags is the "which is better for the environment" paper or digital format for documents. Bet you are leaning towards digital --- I am.
" ... main selling points ... of eReaders is that they are greener than print. ... common view held by consumers ... is that going digital means going green and saving trees. Many are in for a rude awakening. ... subjected to ‘cradle-to-cradle’ life cycle analysis, eReading is not nearly as green as many naively assume it is." 
" ... Computers, eReaders, and cell phones don’t grow on trees and their spiraling requirement for energy is unsustainable."
" ... digital devices require a constant flow of electrons that predominately come from the combustion of coal, and at the end of their all-too-short useful lives electronics have become the single largest stream of toxic waste created by man...."
Via: ZDNet LINK
RecycleMania 2010 started on Jan 17th, 2010 and ends March 10th, 2010. In these 10 weeks participating schools compete to see who collects the largest quantity of recyclables PER CAPITA and in several other categories.
" ... record number of colleges and universities across the United States, Canada and as far away as Qatar, have begun collecting their recycling and trash weights as part of the first two weeks of trials ... "
" ... a friendly competition and benchmarking tool for college and university recycling programs to promote waste reduction activities to their campus communities.... ranked according to who collects the largest amount of recyclables per capita, the largest amount of total recyclables, the least amount of trash per capita, or ... highest recycling rate. ..."
Good luck to all and there really are no losers in this competition !
Via: RecycleMania LINK
This video shows interactively the carbon footrprint of two food choices - a cheesburger and a chicen sandwich. Knowing this which would you choose?
Via: SmartPlanet LINK
Zerofootprint offers software and services that help your organization measure and manage its environmental footprint."
For example, their "One Minute Calculators enable individuals to get a quick measure of their carbon footprint. After they input basic lifestyle information, the calculator will provide an estimate of a user’s carbon emissions in 60 seconds or less."
There are 10 One Minute Calculators ... looking at the Earth Hour version I found that my family uses 11.45 ton / year of CO2. By changing some variables like diet you can see the impact of various changes.
>>> Check it out.
Via: zerofootprint LINK
Timberland is into green in a big way and wants to help consumers make smarter choices ... one way they do this is with their product labeling for shoes..
Timberland is making it easier to compare their products based on environmnetal impact. Using a label much like the nutrician label for food they provide details on content and carbon consumed.
" ... All of our boxes incorporate what we like to call a nutrition label. It details in actual numbers the environmental impact of the pair of footwear you're about to put on your feet. And coming soon, we'll be including small icons that visually detail the special earth-conscious features that have gone into making that product. ..."
Click to see a larger more readable label ... LINK
Via: Timberland LINK
... "Pennsylvania Hospital is receiving the award for its extensive recycling program, as well as its healthy organic foods program. The hospital started a weekly farmers market in 2008 for patients, staff and the surrounding community. New in 2009, the hospital introduced the new locally-grown featured produce item in the cafeteria. The item is available for purchase Wednesdays at the market, then served in the cafeteria on Thursdays with the recipe posted so diners can prepare the same dish at home. " ...Via EPA: Trailblazer Awards
Concrete is everywhere and is a key component of modern infrastructure .... used in roads, buildings, bridges, etc. It is also anything BUT green. Not only is it typically gray - its manufacturing process is quite dirty.
"MIT Prof. Franz-Josef Ulm is obsessed with concrete and how to make it greener ... behind the reinvention of this backbone material ... that happens to contribute up to five per cent of the world’s carbon emissions. "
production by 83 per cent over the next 40 years." " ... 25 billion tons of concrete are produced annually on a worldwide basis versus 3.3 billion tons of lumber. ... production ... emits carbon dioxide (CO2) in two ways. Cement forms the glue in concrete and is made from limestone. However, limestone isn’t cement until the CO2 is baked out, a process that makes up half of concrete’s carbon emissions. ... other 50 per cent ... comes from fossil fuels used to heat the limestone up to 1,300 degrees Celsius. ..."
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Change yourself - change the world. The No Impact Project " ... is an international, environmental, nonprofit project ... inspired by the No Impact Man book, film, and blog."
" ... empower citizens to make choices which better their lives and lower their environmental impact through lifestyle change, community action, and participation in environmental politics. ... Living low-impact provides a clear entry point into the environmental movement. ..."
Goals are to "Promote behavioral change .... Enable the public ... Engage people who are not already tree-hugging, bicycle-riding, canvas-bag-toting, eco-warriors ..."
Via: No Impact Project LINK
The Omega Center for Sustainable Living in Rhinebeck, NY is " ... a state-of-the art education center and natural wastewater treatment facility. "
" ... is a pioneering project in the Living Building Challenge and is expected to be the first building in the United States to receive the Living Building designation in addition to receiving LEED Platinum certification."
" ... the Living Building Challenge requires buildings to be informed by their eco-region's characteristics; generate all of their own energy with renewable resources; capture and treat all of their water; operate efficiently; and be designed for maximum beauty. ... six performance areas—site, energy, materials, water, indoor quality, and beauty & inspiration—and certain criteria to be met in each category in order for a building to be designated a Living Building."
Via: Omega Center for Sustainable Living LINK
Here are some energy saving tips from the New Belgium Brewery in Fort Collins, Colorado. Check out earlier posts about this GREEN and environmentally friendly brewery.
For the rest of the list, more details on the items listed and more info about this environmentally friendly brewery ... follow the link at the end of this post.
"Hang your clothes out to dry ... clothing-dryer is the 2nd-most energy consumptive household appliance after the refrigerator ... if you don’t have space for an outdoor clothesline there are indoor racks that are compact and work like a charm."
"Put on a sweater ... When the temperatures drop, ... put on some soft booties, and sip a steamy hot drink. It’ll make you feel all warm and fuzzy."
"Drink tap water ... Shipping bottled water around the world in plastic bottles burns a heap of fuel, pollutes our air, and puts more plastic into an increasingly plastic-sheathed world. ... if tap water is not up to your standards, there are ... filters available at much more affordable prices than the cost of purchasing bottled water."
"Use your own shopping bag ... asked, “Paper or plastic?” say, “Neither, I have my own bags.”
Via: New Belgium Brewing LINK
AOL's downloadable green toolbar offers a series of tips that change every few seconds as well as the ability to get quick searches and fees from, several green blogs like Green Daily and Green Resources ... you can also add Green Tech from Engadget.
During the install process you have the ability to make a few system setups (or decline if you prefer) that will ... "... save $25-75 per year (up to 100 kilowatts) by adjusting your computer to quickly go to Standby mode ... use up to 15% less paper by simply printing more on each page ... For some older monitors, using a darker desktop wallpaper saves more energy than lighter colors ..."
On the far right of the bar is an area that shows a constantly changing list of tips and tip of the day.
Via: AOL Green Toolbar Download Link
Want to travel Green? Vroom, Vroom, Vroom is a car rental service that works with all the major rental aagencies and offers both lower prices and a carbon offset for your rental (based on the miles driven and carbon emissions of your rental car). You can even get a green hotel as well!
" ... paying for all of the carbon offsets for all car rentals reserved through VroomVroomVroom.com. .. Help the environment by renting a car with VroomVroom Vroom.com. The average contribution to offset carbon emissions for each car rental is $3.32. ...be "environmentally responsible" and drive to a green hotel available in every price range in almost every city."
Via: Vroom Vroom Vroom Link
Yesterday I found packaged green peppers in what looked like a paper tray rather than #6 PS foam trays. The product is labeled 100 compostable and 100% biodegradab
le and is made by Biospherecorp.
Compostable and biodegradable beats PS foam! Made from starch that is used as it is and not converted to plastic first ...
" ...Biosphere® Industries joined forces with Sealed Air Corporation, ... as a joint venture partner to bring a new class of sustainable biodegradable packaging products to market. ... Renew-a-Pak® and Blueware™ product lines are ... ultra earth friendly starch based packaging systems. ... do not convert starch into plastic, but bake it, similar to the process of making bread, waffles or ice cream cones. ... manufacture rigid packaging products that perform unlike anything else on earth."
" ... made primarily of starches such as tapioca and potatoes and a smaller percentage of grass fibers making them not only biodegradable, but Earth friendly ... Custom engineered packaging shapes and sizes may be infused with signature colors and custom aromas."
" ... Renew-a-Pak's product line is readily naturally compostable and garbage disposal safe. ... biodegrade completely in 40 days outdoors ... or 10 days in a commercial compost environment while enjoying an indoor shelf life of many years ..."
Via: biosphereindustries LINK
You cannot manage what you cannot measure ... everyone is hearing about the increasing carbon / greenhouse emissions .. but just how big a number is it? How fast is it growing?
To get a real time view take a look at the 10 character - 70 foot "meter" in New York's Times Sq on the Deutsch Banks billboard.
" ...displays the amount of equivalent greenhouse gas emissions in terms of carbon in the atmosphere, and is constantly updated based on measurements from NASA, NOAA, and supporting research from MIT. ... the number is a reflection of all greenhouse gas emissions (methane, nitrous oxide, etc.) by their impact equivalencies in carbon. It even accounts for dips and rises in the amount of carbon in the atmosphere due to seasonal changes so not to appear to be slowing down certain times of the year.
"Before ... the information was only updated every five years. ... displaying the count in real time "allows people to begin to engage in the debate around the issue." ... the counter creates a sense of urgency, a call to action, and is intended to spur action to take the steps necessary in saving our planet."
Track the carbon count in real time on your PC ... download the Carbon Counter widget ... LINK
Via: SustainLane LINK
... "In addition to releasing the commitment statement, a crucial first step in evaluating the university’s sustainability was conducting Vanderbilt’s first greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory. This first inventory provides a baseline of detailed information to help stakeholders make informed decisions to determine reduction strategies and compare future changes in greenhouse gas emissions on campus, said Judson Newbern, deputy vice chancellor for facilities and environmental affairs. " ...Via Vanderbilt University: Environmental Commitment
Get Ready - Earth Day is Coming!!
What are you planning to do for Earth Day / Earth Week?
"Earth Day, celebrated April 22, is a day designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth's environment. ... held annually during both spring in the northern hemisphere and autumn in the southern hemisphere. ... "
"Many cities extend ... Earth Day observance events to be an entire week, usually starting on April 16, and ending o
n Earth Day, April 22.[22] These events are designed to encourage environmentally-aware behaviors, including increased recycling, improved energy-efficiency, and reduction in disposable items. ..."
So ... what are you going to do?
>>>> I will be making some mulch (chipping up leaves) and planting flowers ... and of course recycling ...
Happy Earth Day / Earth Week.
Via: Wikipedia LINK
The Green Thing is about showing you how becoming green and offering easy ways to achieve this. There are 7 things you can do ... " ... walk the walk, stay grounded, all-consuming, easy on the meat, human heat, plug out, stick with what you've got .."
"Green Thing is a public service that inspires people to lead a greener life. With the help of brilliant videos and inspiring stories etc. from creative people and community members around the world, Green Thing focuses on seven things you can do - and enjoy doing. ..."
Check out the cool video narrated by "green thing" that gives details to these 7 principles ...
Meet Green Thing from Green Thing on Vimeo.
Via: Green Thing Link
Go Green Expo for NYC (April 17 - 19) and Atlanta (June 26 - 28) are on the way. Go Green Expo has already been to LA and Philadelphia ...
The Green Dude and Green Tech both visited the Phila show and came away impressed by the information available. Among the neat things I saw were ... 
- solar powered garbage can ... when the trash level crosses a light beam it is crushed down ... it can be equipped with a wireless devise to alert you when full ...
- paper made from elephant dung ... used for business cards and fine writing paper ... 
- several manufacturers of dry cleaner garment bags ... you take your dry cleaning to the cleaners in these bags and they are returned in the same bag -- eliminating the need for plastic bags. There were several models available ... from organic cotton to bags made with recycled plastic bags (though a much heavier fabric).
>>> QUESTION to our readers ... I am considering getting one of the dry cleaner bags (permanent end to plastic bags) ... have any of you tried these and how hove your cleaners responded?
Via: Go Green Expo LINK
Check out EarthLab's carbon calculator. By asking along series of questions about where you live, what kind of ho
me, how you commute, number of and kind of cars, how much and how you travel, how large your family is it calculates your carbon footprint and your ECP.
It then shows how you compare to the average in the US, your state and ZIP code. When I first took the test on March 25, 2009 my numbers were:
CEP: 317
Carbon 12.4 tons of CO2.
I will retake he test periodically and see how (if) my numbers change (for good or bad) and update in future posts.
Via: EarthLab.com Link
The Go Green Expo comes to Philadelphia, at the PA Convention Center in center city Philadelphia, this weekend ...hours are ...
Friday, March 13th • 10am - 5pm
Saturday, March 14th • 10am - 6pm
Sunday, March 15th • 10am - 5pm
"Go Green Expo, ... was conceived after a viewing of the film "An Inconvenient Truth." It prompted the question, "How can we make a difference?" ... will change not only the public's perception of environmentalism but also how events like this are produced and managed. ... Even the event itself is environmentally friendly utilizing a ZERO Carbon footprint approach ... Biodegradable trash bags, eco-friendly printing, table coverings, recycled signs, compostable sponsor banners and more. Event waste will be separated and sorted to ensure the least amount of refuse going to the landfills. Staff travel and a portion of every ticket that is purchased will be carbon offset."
See the Video by Ed Begley -- he is not at the Philadelphia show ... Via: GoGreenExpo Link
The Fox TV Show "24" " ... becomes the first carbon neutral television production."
" ... Nearly a year after announcing its aim to reduce its carbon footprint and in
spire its viewers to do the same, "24," ... has far exceeded its carbon-reduction goals and will be the first television production ever to achieve carbon neutrality. ... reduced the carbon emissions associated with its production by a staggering 43%, and ... has purchased high-quality carbon offsets to address its remaining unavoidable emissions. "
Green Earth Technologies offers a wide range of GREEN products including Engine Oil.
" ... Green Earth Technologies, Inc ... "eco-logical" products ... are made entirely from American grown base oils that are ... TOTALLY GREEN! ... our motto: SAVE THE EARTH – SACRIFICE NOTHING™."
" ... our products are Ultimate Biodegradable (ASTM Standard's highest available ranking) which means they are environmentally safe….safe for you, safe for your family, safe around your pets and safe for the earth."
" ... our bottles made from recycled material, but they are also recyclable. ..."
Getting too many catalogs? Want to gain some control over mail you do not want?
>>> Check out Catalog Choice - a free service that allows you to "opt out" of selected catalogs.
" ... allows you to decide what gets in your mailbox. ... reduce your mailbox clutter, while helping save natural resources. ... a sponsored project of the Ecology Center. ... endorsed by the National Wildlife Federation and the Natural Resources Defense Council, ..."
" ... mission ... is to reduce the number of repeat and unwanted catalog mailings, ... Consumers can indicate their mail preference for catalogs, and businesses can receive the list in a secure manner so that they can efficiently honor the requests."
" ... You benefit by reducing mailbox clutter, ... benefits merchants, lowering their cost of distribution and helping them better target their market. ..."
Via: Catalog Choice LINK
Google has some energy saving tips on their web site .... some are easy / low cost / DIY ... here they are for your review and use >>>
" ... Weatherstrip and caulk your windows and doors ... Cover your hot water heater with an insulation blanket ... Reduce the temperature of your hot water heater to 120F or less ... Install a low flow shower head ... Learn how to set power management on your computer ... Plug home electronics into a powerstrip and turn off when not in use. ..."
Via: GOOGLE Link
Many companies are making "GOING GREEN" part of their business; both to their benefit (cost savings) and to the planet's benefit (less waste, energy, etc.)
Read to learn what Frito Lay is doing in the areas of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
" ... reusing our [shipping] cartons five or six times each, we're using 120,000 tons less paperboard a year. Once ... no longer usable, they are recycled.
" ... reduced the amount of material we use in our packaging by 10% over the past 5 years. ... that's enough to cover more than 72,000 football fields. ... improving our chip bags to extend their shelf life, we've saved 5 million pounds of packaging and product from going into landfills."
" ... don't let our potato peelings and cracked corn go to waste ... Every year, about 20 million pounds of unused agricultural material ... goes out to America's livestock and dairy farms, reducing our impact on local wastewater systems and providing quality feed for American cattle."
Via: Frito Lay LINK
We all know / should know that plants toke in CO2 and release O2 (or carbon dioxide into oxygen) - basically cleaning the air. This works in the home as well as in the great outdoors.
"Kamal Meattle used three just three indoor plant species to increase oxygen, filter air, and boost general health at a a New Delhi business park. ... Meattle's presentation at the TED 2009 conference details a large-scale success, ... In any living or working space, ... Areca palm, Mother-in-law's Tongue, and a "Money Plant"—can be used to convert carbon dioxide into oxygen, remove organic compounds, and generally filter and freshen the ambient air. ..."
See the video >>>
Via: LifeHacker LINK
Check out this copy of "GREEN CHECKUP" available at participating NADA car dealers. Read it to find ways you can save gas and wear on your vehicle.
Some tips are DIY such as watching your speed (every mph over 55 lowers mpg by 1%) or emptying your truck of unneeded items to getting a tune up. Stop getting 0 mpg by excessive idling ...
There are 10 tips that collectively are said to be able to save approx. $1,600 for a car and $2,400 for an SUV on an 
annual basis based on gas at $4 / gal.
Check it out!
Via: NADA LINK
Gemline, a manufacturer, based in Massachusetts that has a line of ECO friendly products, eco-CHOICE, ... so if you are looking for alternatives to everyday products or products made with recycled PVC, paper and the like ... read on.
" ... our recycled PET products begin with plastic bottles ... recycled cardboard products are made from cardboard boxes ... and used to make our Eco-Choice™ product line."
" ... pushing industry boundaries by utilizing more environmentally friendly materials across
more categories than ever before. From recycled and organic products to bamboo and
PVC–free materials, ... As a company, we are committed to bringing you even more products that
are good for business and even better for the environment. "
Via: GEMLINE Link
Continue reading "Gemline - Living Green - Green Products" »
It is time to inject some "smarts" into the nations energy grid. A consortia to be based in Austin, Texas plans to do just that. The smarter grid will be much more efficient and possibly delay / eliminate the need for additional power plants.
Read on for more >>>> " ... nonprofit organization, the Center for the Commercialization of Electric Technology ...made up of investor-owned utility companies, a high tech firm, and six public universities ... has set out to apply the latest in communication and information technology to the grid in the form of a "smart energy network," ... will make the grid more reliable and more efficient ..."
Via: AustinChronical.com Link
The California Academy of Sciences is an example of GREN design - from solar cells, to green roof, to skylights to reused literature ...
See the Video for more ...
Via: ZDNet LINK
Sometimes it is very easy to make changes in your daily activities that make your actions GREENER. Here are 10 things you can do to make your home or office greener.
"Shutting off the lights, powering down PCs and monitors, using coffee mugs instead of Styrofoam cups, encouraging use of mass transit, and other simple, common-sense steps can reduce consumption and contribute to a greener environment, making your company and your employees more eco-friendly. This video looks at ways businesses can spur green behavior on - and off - premises."
VIDEO -- could not get it to embed in this post ,,, it's a 3:41 min clip.
Via: eweek Link
Here is an interesting approach to GREEN advertising - a GREEN Pages. For those in Florida looking for businesses that are involved in the GREEN movement ... check this out. Listed are
Via: Florida's Green Pages Link
We hear a lot in the news about Carbon Footprint. This is the impact, expressed as an amount of carbon, that an item produces during its manufacture and distribution. Do you know what the carbon impact of typical consumer items really are and the major components?
Read on to find out ...
" ... pop quiz, based on a recent Wall Street Journal article ... of various household goods. ... guess their single biggest contribution to global warming. Consider all aspects of the product: raw materials, manufacturing, transportation, and end use...."
Here are two of the six:
" ... Milk. ...once again, cows. ... cows are responsible for about 28% of milk's carbon footprint. If you add in their feed, that figure goes up to 51%, ..."
" ... Calculating carbon emissions is complicated business, ...environmental impacts are spread widely throughout our integrated economy, often hiding in unexpected places...."
Otherwise, a few points do jump out from the analysis.
The first is that transportation costs just aren't the biggest impact for most products. Patagonia could manufacture their jackets in the basement of their stores, and they would barely make a dent in their footprint. In aggregate, of course, transportation makes up a huge percentage of the world's carbon budget, so its importance can't be discounted. But buying local still doesn't seem like the best lever for consumers looking to green their lifestyles.
The second is that products that consume energy in their end use tend to be wildly more environmentally harmful after they get into consumers hands than during manufacturing. In other words, if you want to reduce your carbon footprint, consider driving less.
The third is that cows remain a really big problem without an obvious solution. Methane digester projects like the ones that TerraPass funds help to decrease the impacts of agriculture, but as individuals the best lever we have is to reduce our consumption.
Via: Terrapass Link
The Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative held the first US Carbon auction int he US on September 25th, 2008 with two more scheduled for December 17th, 2008.
RGGI is a non profit corporation incorporate in Delaware and based in NYC, NY.
"Ten states participate... Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, and Vermont. ...are implementing the first mandatory cap-and-trade program in the United States to reduce greenhouse gas emissions."
"Regulated power plants will be able to use a CO2 allowance issued by any of the ten participating states to demonstrate compliance with an individual state program. In this manner, the ten individual state programs, in aggregate, will function as a single regional compliance market for CO2 emissions."
Via: Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative Link
I missed this one and would have like to check it out. What really caught my eye was a photo in the local newspaper (Phila Inquirer, Monday Sept 8th) that showed a person dressed as a "bag monster" covered in 700 plastic bags - the number the average person uses per year!
"GreenFest Philly is a one-day street fair FREE to the public. Over 200 exhibitors and 20,000 people are expected ... features vegetarian food, sneaker recycling, live music & entertainment, kids activities, bicycle valet, yoga, local produce, organic pastry contest, composting and recycling, ... theme is water quality so grab your reusable water containers and fill up at our no-waste drinking water stations."
Via: GreenFest Philly Link
Cell phones are a modern day wonder ... they can do some pretty neat things and make our lives easier ... but can be part of a toxic waste stream if not properly disposed.
How many do you have lying around in drawers and desks and where-ever?
"ECO-CELL ... cell phone recycling program for environmentally minded fundraisers. ... provide our conservation partners with the most profitable, easy to use and environmentally sound cell phone recycling program possible."
Want to know more about the "secret life of cell phones?" Check out this interesting You Tube video ...
You Tube "Secret Live of Cell Phones - INFORM"
Need ideas for getting ride of your old cell phone while keeping hazardous materials out of the waste stream ... READ ON >>>
Via: ECO-CEL Link
The JPMorgan Chase Corporate Challange is going green. Approx. 250,000 runners participate and by becoming greener they can l;essen theeir environmental impact.
How? Read on for more ...
" ... conserving enough energy to provide lighting for a 50-employee business for nearly seven years ... those 50 employees ... would each be able to charge their laptops for 35 years of consecutive use, run their inkjet printers for 28 years, and take more than 180,000 digital pictures. ... ... saving of approximately 790 million BTUs – enough to power an average home for more than eight years, or keep 10 treadmills running non-stop in a health club for two years ... saving more than five tons of paper, six tons of plastic, nearly 5,000 gallons of crude oil or nearly 300 40-foot tall trees."
So how does this happen? By " ...executing best green practices ... Insuring that all race day supplies...adhere to standards of the OEA, ...Promoting proper recycling and trash removal ... by insuring the vast majority of our communication with companies is done electronically. ...Encouraging all participants to travel to events via provided shuttle transportation, via public transportation, by foot, or via GreenRide, our rideshare program partner in select markets."
Via: JPMorganChase Link
The Fencing Academy of Phildelphia has a " ...3000 square foot green rooftop ... of perennial sedum varieties ... installed ... in the spring of 1998. ... was a retrofit design with the performance objective being the restoration of the pre-development hydrology for the 2-year return-frequency storm."
" ... reached a mature stage of development, creating a meadow-like setting of perennial Sedum varieties ... selected to withstand the range of seasonal conditions typical of the Mid-Atlantic region without then need for irrigation or regular maintenance. ..."
" ... cover is only 3.4” thick, including the drain layer, and weighs less than 5 lb/sf when dry, with a maximum saturated weight of under 17 lb/sf. ..."
Via: LIP Urban Design Link
Fortune's "Brainstorm Green" is an invitation only event on April 21 - 22, 2008 in Pasadena, California.
Set to occur during Earth Day, 2008 (April 22) the event brings " ... environmentally-minded business leaders and the green movement's brightest thinkers ..." together for "... for FORTUNE's first-ever Brainstorm: GREEN Conference."
" ... will be an unprecedented gathering of business and environmental leaders, as executives, academics, politicians and NGOs join to discuss the impact of the green movement and explore the opportunities and challenges facing FORTUNE 500 companies, entrepreneurs, government, and the financial world."
Continue reading "Fortune Brainstorm Green - April 21-22, 2008" »
Porshce has an electric car in it's family history ... before Hybrids were even a common word. The Lohner-Porsche was made in 1901 - 1905 a
nd could run on either gas / electric.
Fast forward to today! Porsche is a real performance car ,,,, and now a modern hybrid is coming ... "Due by the end of the decade, the Cayenne uses a parallel hybrid system that will help the SUV achieve fuel economy of at least 26 US MPG. ... "
Via: Autoblog Link
Via: Wikipedia Link
"Earth Hour ... annual international event started in 2007, held on the last Saturday of March, that asks households and businesses to turn off their lights and non-essential electrical appliances for one hour in the evening. ...promoted by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Australia and the Sydney Morning Herald."
See Wikipedia for images of major locations before and after the lights are turned off.
Via: Wikipediua Link
Continue reading "Earth Hour - Global Awareness of Global Warming" »
" ... Japan will urge citizens to carry their own chopsticks ... and go shopping with their own bags instead of using plastic ones, in a bid to more than halve the garbage it produces."
"Japan aims to reduce the total amount of garbage — produced by both industries and individuals — by 60 percent of the fiscal 2000 level to 25.3 million tons by fiscal 2015 under the plan posted on the ministry's Web site."
Via: Time.Com Link
People want to know everything about their products ... including how green it might be.
Timberland is a leader in this regard and has had " ... a “nutritional label” on every box to educate consumers ... Where it was manufactured. How it was produced. And its effect on the environment...."
Taking this one step further is their " ... Green Index™ Rating ... to provide product-specific environmental impact information ... a scale of 0 (best) to 10 (worst), ... three key environmental factors: climate impact, chemical use and resource consumption. ... The Green Index™ rating will be carried on a select line of ... in 2007. ... goal is to have it on all of our shoes by 2010.
Via: Timberland 2006 CSR Report Link
Via: Timberland.com Link
Hybrids.
They get better mileage. They are good for the environment.
Now they can even save you some money on Tolls!
Some toll authorities are extending discounts to cars that get a certain MPG and meet a certain emissions threshold. Currently only 3 or so cars qualify.
NY State grants a special GREEN EZ-Pass plan and EZ-Pass to vehicles that meet their criteria of ..." at least 45 miles to the gallon and meet specific emissions standards ..." The discount is 10% on NY Thruway Roads.
NOTE: Not all E-ZPass Agencies are offering Toll Discounts to Hybrids ... But I would not be surprised if other follow NY's Lead.
" ... toward the goal of creating a building that functions like a home and serves as a laboratory ... will provide an exemplary model and testing environment of an improved approach to home life while specifically improving the lives of the individuals inhabiting the house."
The sSmart House will focus research on 5 Areas:
Via: Drexel University SmartHouse Link
More and more people WANT to go GREEN. More and more companies SAY they are GREEN.
How do you get some objective idea about what is really green?
>>>Green-e may be able to help ...
"...Green-e is the nation's leading independent consumer protection program for the sale of renewable energy and greenhouse gas reductions in the retail market. ... offers certification and verification of renewable energy and greenhouse gas mitigation products. It is a program of the Center for Resource Solutions."
Via: green-e.org Link
Plastic water bottles are everywhere and it looks like they wil be with us in the market place for some time. They are light, easy to take along when travelling and od not break. ... PErfect ... except so few are recycled.
This newly designed plastic water bottle is both highly recycleable and uses less plastic.
Read on for more >>>
"The lightest ½ liter bottle ... produced*, the new, 100% recyclable Poland Spring Eco-Shape™ bottle ... because it’s lighter, it requires less energy to make – resulting in a reduction of CO2 emissions." * See link below for details ...
Via: Poland Springs Link
"... Saab 9-4X BioPower Concept demonstrates the potential ... a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder turbo engine optimized for bioethanol (E85) fuel to give 300 hp and 400 Nm (295 ft.lbs.) of torque - ..." 
"... Its current BioPower models are the top-selling flex-fuel vehicles in Europe, ... offering both more power and producing less CO2 emissions when operating on E85 fuel compared to when fueled by only gasoline. ..."
"... engine is optimized for E85 fuel (85% bioethanol, 15% gasoline) ..."
"Engine efficiency is also improved by the use of direct injection (DI) and continuously variable valve timing (VVT) on both the inlet and exhaust sides. ..."
Via: SaabUSA.com Link
Several complaints about compact fluorescent bulbs is that:
- they contain mercury
- they do not fit in the same space as an incandescent bulb
Philips has solved these problems with their ALTO bulbs.
Read on for more >>>
" ... Philips Energy Savers ... don't just provide the light of your standard light bulb, they also have the same classic shape. ..."
These bulbs are better for the environment because they use less wattage for similar light, can last years longer than incandescent bulbs as there is no filament to burn out and have less mercury than other CFB.
Mercury is a highly toxic material that can pollute air and water and improper disposal of CFB can lead to pollution (though probably off set by the pollution of less fossil fuels ... ?)
Via: Philips Lighting - Link
New York City is hosting the Greener Gadget Conference on Feb 1, 2008. The one day event details:
10am - 6pm
McGraw-Hill Conference Center
1221 Avenue of the Americas
New York City, NY
"... industry leaders, entrepreneurs, [and others] ... will gather to discuss the business case for the greening of the consumer electronics industry. ... featuring ... consumer electronics companies ..., innovators from academic thinktanks, members of startups ... and some of the leading minds in the word of sustainable design and business. Topics to be addressed include: design for sustainability, product life cycle management, take-back and recycling programs, energy efficiency, greener materials, and green lifestyle and product marketing. An attached gallery space will feature a green prototype office display and technology exhibits from companies on the cutting edge of green tech."
" ... will showcase revolutionary design and tech innovations that will shape the future of the consumer electronics and change your world... for the better."
Some discussion points:
Via: GreenerGadgets.com Link
Continue reading "Greener Gadgets Conference in N.Y.C. Feb 1, 2008" »
Some schools are already green. Others are just getting started. Many need help with a structured program to guide them. 
Green Flag promotes 4 key areas:
-- Indoor Air Quality - looking at mold, irritants, etc
-- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, - pretty self explanatory
-- Non Toxic Products - cleaning products and others
-- Integrated Pest Management - for grounds and indoors
"Schools across the nation are using the Green Flag School Program to make their schools healthier places to work and learn. ... Achieve recognition for ... your school already does, and improve your program with the support of teachers and field experts across the country. ... check out the Green Flag School Program today!"
Via: Green Flag Program Link
Here is an interesting idea ... harness the body heat from commuters to warm a building. instead of radiating into the air ... an interesting idea in Sweden uses that heat to heat a new nearby office building.
>>> Read on for more.
" ... heat from hundreds of thousands ... will be used to heat a new office building..."
"...body heat would warm up water that in turn would be pumped through pipes .. ". "... old technology, but used in a new way. ... expects the system to bring down heating costs in the building by up to 20 percent. "
I" ... system is not expected to be complicated or very costly,..."
Via: Physorg.Com Link
Continue reading "Sweden's "People Powered Heating" System for Buildings" »
It's getting close --- Here at the Green Dud's place it is less than C-1 (Christmas -1 day).
Here are some green ideas for a green Christmas:
(1) Buy a live (balled) tree instead of cutting down a livbe tree and throwing it in a landfill.
>> Get some credit back if you (like me) mulch the tree instead of throwing it in the trash).
>> Get some credit back if the tree was grown w/o extra chemicals and such.
(2) Get some new LED lights. they are brighter and use way less electricity and should LAST A LONG time. When your old strands are no longer working - Go with LEDS.
>> Added Bonus - no toxic mercury in LEDs!
(3) Use paper shopping bags to wrap your presents and then recycle them instead of throwing them out with the trash.
(4) Recycle what you can of gift packaging (cardboard and paper are an easy one ... #6 PS if you ahve a place to take it.
>> Get some extra credit for buying gifts with minimla or green type packaging.
(5) Whatever type of tree you choose - consider recycled ornaments.
Via: The Green Dude .... Link
The normal process is to burn a hydrocarbon and get CO2. A possible novel new process would turn the CO back into a Hydrocarbon. 
CO2 ==> CO ==> Hydrocarbon ... just add concentrated sunlight! Pretty neat!
"... research team from Sandia National Laboratories is building a prototype ... to chemically “reenergize” carbon dioxide into carbon monoxide ... carbon monoxide could then be used to make hydrogen or ... combustible fuel, such as methanol or even gasoline, diesel and jet fuel."
"... Counter Rotating Ring Receiver Reactor Recuperator (CR5, for short), ..."
"... “Sunshine to Petrol” (S2P). “Liquid Solar Fuel” is the end product — the methanol, gasoline, or other liquid fuel made from water and the carbon monoxide produced using solar energy."
Continue reading "Possible Route to Hydrocarbon Fuel from Air" »
The citizens of Seattle, Washington have several green power options. Seattle has a long history of grren power ... in 1905 they built their first hydroelectric plant.
>>> This allows customers to pay an additional amount to get up to 100% of their power from renewable sources.
>>> This funds demonstrations of renewable energy methods not curently bieung used in Seattle.
Via: City Light Power Link
What is a waterless urinal? 
How does it work?
How does it save money and or energy?
Waterless urinals are now being installed in buildings around the country. I saw them this week at the US HQ (PA) of a major German software company ...
They mount like an ordinary urinal but have a drain only - now plumbing is needed to "flush" so there are energy saving s in construction, less water and maintenance.
" ... As much as 5% of fresh water consumed is currently used to carry away urine. Each Falcon Waterfree ... saves an average of 40,000 gallons (151,000 liters) of fresh water per year. ... No energy need be used to treat this water, nor does it produce carbon dioxide emissions as a byproduct of its treatment. ... "
A" ... very little maintenance ... no moving parts ... only maintenance is an easy change of the cartridge, performed approximately three to four times per year."
Rohm and Haas (NYSE: ROH), a Philadelphia, Pa based global chemical company, is updating the roof on their corporate HQ building. The roof is approx 40,000 sq. feet and and is being coated with a polymer to reduce the heat impact of the roof. 
" ... Philadelphia is currently seeking to increase standards for new and replacement roofs ... new Rohm and Haas roof coating exceeds the current state regulations and would meet the proposed city regulations, should they be adopted."
“... using this roof coating technology, we reduce the indoor air temperature as well as the urban heat island effect, reducing energy costs ..."
For a High Res pic of the Reflective Roofing Material being applied ... Link
Via: Rohm and Haas.com Link
Continue reading "Chemical Company Adds Environmentally Advanced Green Roof" »
Happy Thanksgiving from the folks at Greentechnolog!
In keeping with our Green theme (or at least the Green Dudes) ... let take a look at what one can do to make this great holiday more green.
Here are some ideas for a GREEN Thanksgiving - or any holiday or event!
Via: Suite101.com Link
Generally I am all for going green. So when I first saw this ... hmmm. But .... there is more to it than meets the eye.
Here is one idea that at first may not make a lot of sense ... but when you consider the life cycle (i.e. how many have a very short life and end up in the can == garbage!) of the average umbrella - it makes sense.
>>>> Read on for all the details ... it is more interesting than it first seems.
I am not so sure makes all that much sense. But I appluad the innovation! A biodegradable umbrella!
"... the "Melt umbrella" ... Under the "correct conditions," it will melt into the soil--or rather, into soil. ... made of garden film, and ... waxed cardboard and bamboo. "... Most umbrellas bite the dust when too many of those metal spines break. And then the whole thing--metal spines, plastic handle and all--gets thrown out. It'll almost certainly break before it would decompose, right? So maybe a biodegradable umbrella is actually a great idea..."
Via: GoodClenTech.com Link
Green seems to be the buzzword. Green "this" and Green "that". Now Green is getting hot in the fashion industry and not just in the earlier frumpy fashions ... .
Envi offers "fashion conscious clothing for an eco-conscious lifestyle".
Q? What makes clothing green?
A The material(s).
"Organic cotton, hemp, soy fiber, and bamboo fiber ... made from plants that are grown without the use of chemicals or pesticides ... Organic wool comes from sheep that were not sprayed, injected, or treated in an inhumane manner...."
Via: Envi Link
Carry your laptop and other electronics in a cool looking bag and have a handy source of never ending power at the same time.
"Eclipse Solar Gear is a leading source of innovative solar charging cases ...patented line of solar backpacks ... designed to charge the batteries of common handheld electronics ..."
"... a solar backpack or any solar charger can extend the use of your personal electronics and contribute to the protection of the environment. ..."
Via: eclipsesolargear.com Link
What is a green home?
What makes it special or different?
>>>> Read on to learn more...
"Transforming the residential market to green building is critical to our efforts to halt global climate change. By earning LEED Platinum certification for the Near-Zero Energy Home, BASF is having an immediate, measurable impact on energy use and CO2 emissions ...BASF's leadership in achieving LEED Platinum certification sends a powerful message to the marketplace, and will help accelerate the adoption of green homebuilding nationwide."
"... a demonstration home for innovative BASF technologies promoting high-performance, energy efficiency and ecological benefits in new housing. ..."
"... will incorporate Zero-Energy Housing (ZEH) concepts from Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the building science principles of PATH/Build America expert, Steve Winter, AIA."
"... Near-Zero Energy Home-Paterson, N.J., has been selected by the U.S. Green Building Council's (USGBC) pilot testing for the recently launched Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for Homes (LEED-H) rating system, under which it has achieved the Platinum level. The home will be designed to achieve Energy Star certification and, with the inclusion of solar panels, will support New Jersey's Solar Initiative Program."
Paper or Plastic?
One of the negatives about plastic bags is that they contribute to trash and asre found "lost" most everywhere. Here's a possible option to eliminate on of plastic bag's major drawbacks - they do not decompose.
How about biodegradable plastic?
"Ecoflex® is BASF's completely biodegradable and compostable plastic. ... ideal for trash bags or disposable packaging as it decomposes in compost within a few weeks or in soil without leaving any residues. ... designed to process like Low Density Polyethylene into films, bags or coatings. ... is shelf and warehouse stable for one year."
"Ecoflex® ... is certified by the Biodegradable Products Institute in North American via ASTM D6400, and has biodegradable certifications with the European Standard EN 13432 on compostability as well as the Japanese standard GreenPla. ..."
Via: EcoFlex Biodegradable Plastic by BASF Link
Want to know more about Green building materials and services? Looking for that special green product or service?
>>>> Checkl out rateitgreen.com .... a "... diverse community of individuals and professionals interested in finding and sharing the best in green building and design products and services. ... offers several key ways to learn from and share information with your peers:
Via: rateitgreen.com Link
Want to learn more about green building? Want to meet others who share this desire and learn what is new in the industry?
>>>> Then check out greenbuild in Chicago on Nov 7 - 9, 2007 in Chicago!
"... Come join 18,000 other people who agree that green building is a good idea and good for business at the Greenbuild International Conference and Expo. ... will take place in Chicago at the new McCormick Place West Building."
"At Greenbuild 2007 we'll explore "Accelerating Green Communities" with outstanding educational sessions, exciting speakers, special events and tours, and our largest exhibit hall ever."
" ... is an unparalleled opportunity to connect with peers, industry experts, and influential leaders as they share insights on the green building movement and its diverse specialties."
Via: greenbuild Link
Continue reading "Greenbuild Conference - Nov 7 - 9, 2007 in Chicago" »
Green building are much more common ... seems that the more there are there more demand there is and the easier for people to get their hands around what it is really like ... could this work for you?
Read on ...
First off ... what makes for a green building? An accepted standard is LEED - Leadership on Energy and Environmental Design. 
"(LEED) Green Building Rating SystemTM is the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings. ... we are committed to LEED standards to help minimize the impact upon the environment."
"Here are just a few ways we have incorporated “green design” into our new stores:
• "The rubber flooring ... [recycled] from old car tires, ... carpets have a high percentage of recycled content."
• "Fixtures .. from reclaimed wood and steel."
• "All new wood is certified ... from well-managed and sustainable forests."
•" Paints, carpets and adhesives contain minimal volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to reduce toxic fumes."
• " ...a minimum of 75% of construction debris was sent to recycling facilities rather than landfills."
• "Our recycling program includes glass, metal, plastic, paper and cardboard."
• " ... indigenous plants in landscaping eliminates the need for irrigation systems."
• " ... lighting control system takes advantage of natural light brought into the store by the large windows."
• " ... sensors regulate climate control in each area of the store."
• " ... bicycle storage and changing rooms encourages employees to ride their bikes to work."
"Any phone that can be turned on can be used to call 911. It's always a free call and will connect you to the nearest local emergency operator. "
"Secure the Call ... non-profit coalition of over 30 organizations in the D.C. Metro-Baltimore area, i... take your donated phone and convert it into a 911 emergency only phone and give it back to our coalition partners for distribution. If you have a need for a 911 phone, we'll work to get you one.We need your old phones to make this program a success. We have hundreds of collection boxes throughout the Metropolitan area or you can send the phone to us via the Post Office or any delivery company. Thanks to you, the program works.
"... bring your old cell phones to be recycled and ... from ending up in a land fill. Secure The Call ... carefully wipes out all of your personal information on your cell phone, then reprograms it so that the phone to call 911-only, and tests them to make sure they work before shipping them out. ..."
Via: Secure the Call Link
Paper.
Writing paper.
Copy paper.
Coated and uncoated paper.
Newspaper.
Paper comes in a wide variety of types: copy paper, printer paper, note book filler paper,etc.
What is the impact our choice(s) make? Which choice(s) minimize impact on the environment?
>>> Read on to Lean More.
Use the PaperCalculator to see what impact various choices of paper can make.
### 100 lbs of copy paper, 0% recycled content requires:
2 million BTUs
285 lbs CO2
954 gallons of wastewater
114 lbs of solid waste
### The same paper BUT with 25% recycled requires:
2 million BTUs
258 lbs CO2
844 gallons of wastewater
100 lbs of solid waste
Imaging the difference when multiplied across a large office or entire business.
Via: Environmental Defense Fund Paper Calculator Link
Oct 13, 2007: Al Gore Wins Nobel Peace Prize.
"OSLO, Norway (AP) - ... Al Gore and the U.N.'s climate change panel won the 2007 Nobel Peace Prize on Friday for spreading awareness of man-made climate change and laying the foundations for counteracting it."
"We face a true planetary emergency," Gore said. "The climate crisis is not a political issue, it is a moral and spiritual challenge to all of humanity."
"... an advocate of stemming climate change and global warning well before his eight years as vice president, called the award meaningful because of his co-winner, calling the U.N.'s Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change the "world's pre-eminent scientific body devoted to improving our understanding of the climate crisis."
"... plans to donate his half of the $1.5 million prize money to the Alliance for Climate Protection, a bipartisan nonprofit organization that is devoted to changing public opinion worldwide about the urgency of solving the climate crisis."
Via: Katu.com Link
"The four-story 250,000 SF, Green Exchange, ... 2545 West Diversey Avenue, is to be converted in accordance with Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards, with an aspiration to achieve a Silver certification. ... creating an epicenter for green businesses and organizations in the Midwest U.S."
" ... the Green Exchange when it (hopefully) ... tenants ... currently on board include an eco-freindly printer, a sustainable furniture store, an eco-clothing store, a car sharing service, and a bike shop. ..."
Among the Features:
"By agreement with the Vatican, Planktos/KlimaFa ... the Vatican plans to become the world's first entirely carbon neutral sovereign state, and it has accepted KlimaFa ecorestoration offsets to achieve this historic goal. ... ceremony on July 5th the Vatican ... accepted KlimaFa's offer to create a new Vatican Climate Forest in Europe that will initially offset all of the Vatican City State's CO2 emissions for this year."
"The new Vatican Climate Forest will be created in Hungary's Bükk National Park ... dimensions will be determined by the Vatican’s 2007 energy usage and the success of its current emission reduction efforts. KlimaFa has received EU JI Track 1 approval to plant thousands of hectares of new native species, mixed growth forests under the permanent protection of European national park systems. Its initial projects are being conducted in collaboration with Hungary's government, Academy of Sciences and National Parks Directorate."
"Planktos/KlimaFa has further committed to work with the Vatican ... to develop methods to calculate the CO2 emissions of individual Catholic churches and offer ecorestoration options to turn their carbon footprints green."
Via: KlimFa.com Link
"Wal-Mart ... [NYSE: WMT] ...will open ... [Jan. 18, 2007] in Kansas City, Mo. the first ...High-Efficiency stores that will use 20 percent less energy than a typical Supercenter. ... will help the retailer move one step closer to achieving its environmental goals, which include using less energy and producing less waste."
"In 2005, Mal-Wart opened two experimental stores in McKinney, Texas, and Aurora, Colo., to test several different environmentally friendly technologies, ranging from wind power to pervious pavement, from waterless urinals to light-emitting diodes. ... plans to open the next High-Efficiency store in Rockton, Ill., this spring."
"To achieve the 20 percent energy reduction ... the company will target two main energy-consuming units: the heating and air conditioning system (HVAC), and the refrigeration system. ... the new HVAC and more efficient refrigeration systems are fully integrated so that 100 percent of the heat rejected by the refrigeration system is reclaimed into the HVAC. The reclaimed heat is then converted into usable energy. By incorporating a loop-piping design, the ... system also reduces the amount of installed copper and the total refrigerant charge required."
"Other energy-saving technologies ... include the installation of ultra-efficient case fans, glass doors on medium temperature grocery cases, RollSeal® quick response doors to seal air in areas such as the Garden Center, and a top-of-the-line dehumidification system. ... a daylight harvesting system, which uses skylights to refract daylight throughout the store and light sensors ... During periods of higher natural daylight, the system then dims or turns off the store lights when they aren’t needed, ..."
"... also features GE’s energy-saving light-emitting diode (LED) refrigerated case lighting. LEDs have a longer life span than fluorescent bulbs, produce less heat and use significantly less energy than typical grocery case lighting. ... motion sensor-driven LED lights have been installed in all freezer and medium-temperature refrigerated cases. ... the lights in these cases automatically turn off, and quickly turn back on when a customer approaches."
"...is committed to selling products that sustain our resources and our environment. As part of this store’s grand opening events,...donation of 21,000 compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs), Wal-Mart will aid the city’s campaign to distribute CFLs to low-income and senior citizen households in Kansas City, Mo. ..".
Via: Wal*Mart.com Link
BP is committed to alternative power solutions. In addition to manufacturng Solar panels they have partnered with several groups to make it easier to buy (with Home Depo).
>>> Read on for more.
In 2005, "... expanded state-of-the-art facility in Frederick, Md. to more than double our production of solar panels. ... contains all of the elements of solar product manufacturing processes. These are vertically integrated to ensure the overall quality of the finished products. ... In fact, BP already is one of the world's largest producers of solar panels."
See photo at right.
"Residential customers in southern California can visit one of many of The Home Depot® centers and purchase a complete home solar system via the BP Solar Home Solution program. ... [also] available in New Jersey, California and New York."
Yahoo picked 10 Cities that "in no particular order -- ... putting residents first. That means they're obsessed with clean air and clean water, renewable energy, reliable city buses, trams, streetcars and subways, a growing number of parks and greenbelts, farmer's markets and, very important, opportunities for community involvement."
"Portland, Oregon - ... More than 30 years ago, ... tore down a six-lane expressway to make room for a waterfront park. ... set an urban growth boundary to protect 25 million acres of forest and farmland, started a solid-waste program that recycles more than half of the city's trash and erected more than 50 public buildings that meet tough standards set by the United States Green Building Council. ..."
"Austin, Texas - Home to the first Whole Foods Market ... 205 parks, 14 nature preserves, and 25 greenbelts. ... plans to meet 20 percent of its energy needs with renewable energy and energy efficiency by 2020. ... a recycling center that dates back to 1970, a dozen outdoor farmer's markets, city buses that offer free rides on 'high ozone' days and an innovative "pay-as-you-throw" trash collection program that rewards residents for being less wasteful ..."
Minneapolis, Minnesota - ... more than 60 percent of downtown workers use public or alternative transportation ... Free parking for registered van and car pools, an extensive bike path and bike lane system and employer-sponsored showers ... Minnesota State Department of Commerce nudging businesses and residents to hook solar systems up to the city's grid, ..."
"Boulder, Colorado - ... city planners started preserving parkland in 1898. ... more than 90 percent of residents recycle, where new water meters are not allowed above certain elevation, thus protecting ridgelines and peaks, and where, when recent federal tax cuts gutted city budgets, residents voted themselves a third sales-tax hike to raise $51 million to buy and protect even more open land."
"Burlington, Vermont - ... More than one-third of all energy used in the city comes from renewable resources, ... laws don't allow the use of pesticides on public parks, land or waterways. ... residents formed an extensive network of citizen-based groups that take on everything from environmental programs to clean up toxic sites to watchdog groups to monitor pollution in Lake Champlain. ..."
"Madison, Wisconsin - ... first city in the United States to offer curbside recycling ... 15,000 acres of lakes and 6,000 acres of parkland ... recycling program gets a whopping 97 percent participation, with 265 tons of material... collected each week.... bike-friendly city with more than 100 miles of bike paths ...a place where there are three bikes for every car."
"New York, New York - ... More than 80 percent of NYC residents use public transportation,... New Yorkers burn gasoline at the rate the U.S. did in the 1920s. ... ... Per capita, New Yorkers use fewer resources and put less pressure on their surroundings than any other city of its size. ..."S
"San Francisco, California - ... bus, subway and ferry services that reach throughout the Bay Area, .. . more than half the city's residents use public or alternative transportation to get to work. ... Prevailing winds ... help keep pollution at bay. ... leader in green building, with more than 20 building projects registered for official green certification. And city residents are willing to tax themselves. Voters said yes to allowing the city to sell $100 million in revenue bonds to support renewable energy."
"Santa Monica, California - ... Three of every four of the city's public works vehicles run on alternative fuel, ... among the largest such fleets in the country. All public buildings use renewable energy. ... the city has cut greenhouse gas emissions by nearly 10 percent, ... an urban runoff facility catches 3.5 million gallons of water each week that would otherwise flow into the bay. ..."
"Chicago, Illinois - ... has 42 green-certified building projects, with more to come. ... city's nine museums and the Art Institute ... converted to run partially on solar power. ... one-third of all residents use public transportation to get to work. ...energy goals, likely to be met, is buying 20 percent of its electricity from renewable energy sources this year. ... give tax incentives to homeowners who invest in Chicago's many historic homes and retrofit them with energy efficient heating and cooling systems, as well as water-saving plumbing. ..."
Via: Yahoo.com Link
One way to make your home green is with Solar Lighting. In new houses this can be designed in - but what about an older house?
Sunlight Direct technology uses the sun to bring sunlight into home. How ?
Read on for more information ...
"... Hybrid Solar Lighting (HSL) technology uses a solar concentrator to collect and distribute sunlight ... via plastic optical fibers. Sunlight Direct is proud to be the exclusive provider of Hybrid Solar Lighting systems in the United States and abroad."
"How much light can one system deliver? - . ... HSL3010 system can deliver 50,0000 lumens ... equivalent to approximately 17 fluorescent lamps or 45 PAR38 60W halogen lamps."
"Why not just use a skylight? - Skylights ... function as a simple means of bringing natural light into a building. ... skylights have a number of drawbacks that can limit their application, ... These can include:
- Significant source of heat loss or heat gain
- Can constrain design of building shape and orientation
- Susceptible to water leakage
- Not appropriate for low ceilings
- A source of light pollution at night
- Cannot be easily turned off
- Security concerns
To see locations of Beta Sites ... Link
Via: SunlightDirect.com Link
We hear a lot about buying locally grown food. The "costs" of buying products from across the country or world are huge: fuel to freeze and / or refrigerate, fuel to transport and the resulting carbon impact.
To get better idea of this impact READ ON:
FLAVOR -
ENVIRONMENT -
worldwide. ..."COMMUNITY -
To learn more go to eatlocalchallenge.org Link
Via: Bon Appetit Management Company Link
You've got Junk Electronics ?!?
Who doesn't have some stuff squrreled away in closets, the basement or the garage?
Ah .... but What to do about it?
>>> See below for some easy ways to recycle that old Sony Walkman and Motorola cell phone from the '80s...
Some of the major electronics manufactures are making it easier to recycle rather than toss in the land fill ... and pollute ...
"... makers, in their quest for the fastest, coolest .... devices, have never given much thought to environmental issues, says Barbara Kyle, national coordinator of the Computer TakeBack Campaign, an advocacy group. Not surprisingly, their products are often chemical-laden, power-sucking nightmares, she says."
"Now, for the first time, almost every major PC and electronics maker is trying to change that, says Zeina Al-Hajj, an environmental campaigner at Greenpeace."
"... new green initiatives. Dell (DELL) ... announced a plan to become "the greenest technology company," by beefing up its recycling program and building more Earth-friendly PCs. .... Apple (AAPL) made a similar pledge to become "greener." Panasonic has taken the lead out of its plasma TVs. Motorola (MOT) made its cellphone chargers energy-efficient. Sun Microsystems (SUNW) has even begun posting the amount of electricity it uses in each of its office parks, by month, on the Internet."
"Some of the biggest, ongoing nationwide recycling programs:"
Apple: Apple iPods, any cellphone, any PC with purchase of an Apple computer (restrictions)
Dell: All Dell products, any PC with the purchase of a Dell computer
Hewlett-Packard: HP print cartridges, any PC ( for a fee)
Lenovo: Any PC (for a fee)
Motorola: Any phone
Via: USA Today Link
Computer manufactures have embraced e-recyycling for some time. Dell, HP, and others have well established programs with either free shipping or coupons for discounts on future purchase.
>>>> Now Sony is joining them .... Read on for more info ...
"To encourage consumers to recycle ... electronic devices in an environmentally sound manner, ... The Sony Take Back Recycling Program allows consumers to recycle all Sony-branded products for no fee at 75 Waste Management (WM) Recycle America eCycling drop-off centers throughout
the U.S. ... also allows consumers to recycle other manufacturers’ consumer electronics products at market prices, and may include a recycling fee for some types of materials.
" ... first national recycling initiative in the U.S. to involve both a major electronics manufacturer and a national waste management company."
Via: Sony.com Newsroom Link
Aug 30, 2007 -
"... Governor Edward G. Rendell today unveiled plans for ...
a new solar energy power station that will be the fourth-largest facility of its kind in the country and the largest east of Arizona when operations begin next April."
"... announcement shows that affordable, secure and alternative sources of power are available
now and will result in a cleaner environment, competitive energy prices and the reduction of our
dependence on foreign fuel," said Governor Rendell. ... "
"... Rendell announced that Exelon Generation Company LLC 
has signed a 20-year power purchase
agreement for the energy ... with EPURON LLC, a subsidiary the
world's largest solar integration company Conergy AG. ... plans for more than 16,500 solar panels to be built on 16.5-acres, ... capturing the sun's rays and converting them into electricity."
"... will produce approximately 3,700 megawatt hours of power, enough to meet the annual energy requirements of 300-350 homes ... emission levels of carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide
... reduced by the equivalent benefit of planting 33 acres of trees every year."
For more info on EPURON GmbH, Link
For more info on Excelon Link
For more information on Governor Rendell's Energy Independence
Strategy, visit http://www.depweb.state.pa.us.
Via: PR News Wire Link
Summer is almost over and there are still a few good BBQ days left. Wondering how to make your BBQ GREEN?
>>> Read on for some tips ...and interesting information ...
" ... notes that backyard grilling with either gas or charcoal is likely to be a better environmental option than "using an electric stove in your house" ... powered by a coal-burning power plant."
Here are some easy ways to Green-Up your BBQ ...
"... opt for compostable dishes and utensils made from renewable resources ... These items are sold in stores including Whole Foods, Wal-Mart and Target."
"Plan a menu based on sustainable food choices. ... local or organic foods where possible, ... Buying local minimizes the use of fossil fuels ... and supports the regional economy."
"Use DEET-free repellents to avoid mosquitoes, black flies and other bugs ... are numerous natural repellents available, many made with strong-smelling natural oils such as citronella or geranium."
Via: cnn.com Link
Tredyffrin Township (Chester County, Pa.) is expanding and upgrading their Strafford-Wayne library branch. 
Part of the project includes plans to install a green roof. "Green roofs are layers of living vegetation installed on roofs". The new roof is "expected to increase energy performance ... , reduce airborne emissions, extend the life of the roofing material beyond its normal life span, help manage stormwater, and serve as a model to educate and encourage the public about the benefits of green roofs".
Via: Tredyffrin Twp Newsletter Vol. 21 Issue 3 Fall 2007 Link (not yet posted as of 9/4/2007)
Green companies want to be "green" throughout their supply
chain ... including their ISP.
>>> Read on to lean more and see the profile of one Green ISP ....
"AISO.Net is a ... green web hosting company. We have made a strong commitment to help fight pollution and preserving our natural resources. Solar panels run our data center and office, not energy credits."
"Solar tubes bring in natural light ... during the day. AMD Opteron powered servers use sixty percent less energy and generate fifty percent less heat. These are just some of the ways AISO.Net is becoming the world's most responsible green web hosting company."
"... data center is environmentally friendly in design. It is completely steel framed with no wood at all except for the door frames on the interior of the building. Our walls are over 12 inches thick and filled with insulation that has recycled content. We built our data center, network and servers from the start to use the lowest amount of energy possible using the latest green design techniques, no other hosting company can do what we do without starting from scratch. We use solar tubes to bring in natural sunlight which eliminates the use for conventional lighting during the day. Our cooling systems are water cooled which reduces the amount of electricity because of the unique setup."
" We are in the process of designing a green roof for our data center. The green roof is a layer of dirt 3 to 4 inches thick with drought resistant plants. The new green roof will reduce our cooling and heating requirements by over 50%."
Via: AISO.com Link
Recycling Fun Facts:
>>> Read on for some intersting information....
* "The first real recycling program was introduced in New York City in the 1890s. The city's first recycling plant was built in 1898."
* "By 1924, 83% of American cities were separating some trash items to be reused."
* "Every year, each American throws out about 1,200 pounds of organic garbage that can be composted.""
* "This chart shows the composition of an average garbage dump. Notice how much of it is recyclable!!"
Via: Recycling FunFacts Link
Ethanol ... Alcohol made from ... Corn!
Ethanol ... Alcohol made from ... Milk?
Read on to learn more ...
"Fonterra, a New Zealand dairy cooperative, has started producing 30,000 liters of ethanol a day, which are being sold in Gull petrol stations around the country."
"New Zealand has had quite a few successful eco-initiatives in the past, ... plan to be the first carbon-neutral country ...".
"They also set a national target of 3.4% biofuel content for gas and diesel by 2012."
HP wants your old computers ...
>> ... to recycle.
HP set a goal of recycling 1 billion pounds and having achieved that wants to recycle another billion pounds.
"HP meets billion pound recycling goal, sets target for 2 billion pounds by 2010. Having met our goal six months early to recycle 1 billion pounds of electronics, we have set a new target for another billion pounds by the end of 2010, doubling our annual recovery rate." Because e-waste is not confined to one country or region HP have recycling services in 36 countries.
HP's recycling service provides an easy way to recycle computer equipment, printing supplies, rechargeable batteries and other items." Many items are free of charge to recycle - other require a small fee. See their FAQs page for more info Link
