Green Technology

Pervious concrete can allow for hardscape areas while not causing / contributing to rain water runoff often resulting from development.  Compared to typical concrete it has little or no sand it has about 20% interconnected voids that let water pass through … to the soil below.

“ … can take in stormwater at a rapid rate of over one thousand inches of water per square foot per hour, which far exceeds the flow rate needed to prevent runoff in even the most severe rain events. “

This results in little of the water runoff problems caused by imperious paved areas and allows rain to seep back into the ground and recharge aquifers.

Via:  Bay Area Pervious Concrete  LINK

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Germantown Friends School’s (Philadelphia) new science center is very green.  The facility is energy efficient, has rainwater cisterns, a green roof, solar panels and a dashboard that provides real time data on water and power usage. 

Click HERE to see the current dashboard information and to learn more about this unique facility.

The building uses geothermal wells for heating and cooling to greatly reduce the energy costs.

The cisterns collect rainwater for use as gray water for flushing toilets leading to significant water savings.  The green roof absorbs rainwater that would otherwise have to be treated by the city sever system.

The facility will receive LEED certification.

Via:  Germantown Friends   LINK

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The CBS series “The Good Wife” is a green production.  From the practices on the set to the scenes they film they are being green. 

The set has made significant reductions in waste … using soda fountains instead of cans of soda, mostly eliminating paper plates and plastic ware, using reusable water bottles and sending scene / script rewrites electronically rather than printing paper copies.

They even “lead by example”  by modeling green behaviors … having characters carry reusable water bottles instead of single use plastic bottles. 

See the video for more information … two of the actors and the Executive Producer tell how they live green in real life.  This is an impressive story.

Via:  Smart Planet  LINK

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Johnson Controls Institute for Building Efficiency survey provides insights into the energy mindset of building owners and operators around the world.  The amount of available energy data is increasing, however the processes and roles to act of this information is lacking.  …

…   “Building owners have greater access to energy data, but few are taking advantage of it.

More than eight in 10 measure and record data at least weekly or monthly, but fewer than two in 10 review and analyze that data at least weekly.

Those who have implemented smart grid/smart building technology such as advanced energy metering and management systems are nearly 3 times more likely to review and analyze their data frequently.”   …

Via Johnson Controls: Energy Efficiency Survey.

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Appalachian State students present their graduate research to North Carolina state politicians.  The Solar Homestead students share their experience with zero-energy home design.  …

…   “The core house draws power from a photovoltaic canopy, supported by outbuilding modules or OMs, which are reminiscent of traditional lean-to sheds.”   …

Via Appalachian State University: Green building research project discussed.

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Churches seek sustainability in the design of their building.  …

…   “With the help of his team members, Doxey designed five new prototype buildings for the church that will receive LEED certification, three of which are completely solar powered.”   …

Via Brigham Young University: Building the Green Church.

Phoenix church deploys rooftop solar panels.

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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

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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

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With energy costs still climbing interest in energy efficient homes continues to grow. 

Blu Homes manufactures very energy efficient homes.  " ...cost on average 50 to 70 percent less to operate on a monthly basis than conventional homes. Performing significantly beyond even Energy Star standards, ... " . 

Lower energy costs translate to lower operating costs, lower energy use and a lower carbon footprint.

Check out the details on the Breezehouse (a green home with lots of natural light) - from BluHomes.  Green features include passive solar, high efficiency heating / ventilating / AC systems, solar panels and tight insulated construction.

Via:  Blu Homes LINK

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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

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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

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U of D invests in reducing its carbon footprint and advancing sustainability performance through conservation, recycling, and renewable energy.  The efforts are aligned with education objectives, as well.  …

…   “Thin film solar panels on the clerestory roof in the east wing are an educational addition that demonstrates the future of photovoltaics to students.”   …

Via University of Delaware: Green Construction Activities.

Delaware’s Interdisciplinary Science and Engineering Laboratory.

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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

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CB Richard Ellis has achieved LEED certifications for a number of its properties in the Oakland City Center.  The company expects its tenants to reap the benefits of higher energy efficiency and achieve synergy with client commitments to sustainability.  …

…   “499 14^th Street and 500 12^th Street have both earned a LEED silver certification.

1300 Clay Street and 505 14^th Street are now both certified as LEED gold buildings.

501 14^th Street has also received LEED certification.

These Class A properties join 555 12^th Street and 1111 Broadway, both previously LEED gold certified, in contributing to the availability of cleaner, healthier and more efficient office space in Oakland.”   …

Oakland City Center.

Northern California Chapter of the US Green Building Council.

Oakland’s toolkit for Sustainable Development (ppt).

The Ron Dellums Federal Building 9th Floor (Oakland, CA) is an example of a GSA sponsored LEED project.

Bay Area Green Buildings List, via M. Landman.

Oakland’s LEED platinum home:

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Pythagoras Solar’s energy efficient windows will generate solar power during a pilot project at Willis Tower, formerly the Sears Tower.  The test is being conducted on south facing windows on the 56th floor.  The solar windows are an example of building integrated photovoltaics, or BIPVs.  …

…   “The pilot project, deployed in November last year on the south facing windows of the Willis Tower's 56th floor, uses a building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) solution that has the potential to expand to a surface area allowing over two megawatts of solar power generation.

Willis Tower provides an example of how sustainable modernization endeavors are about more than reducing carbon emissions but also about re-investing in the local economy.”   …

Via Pythagoras Solar: Pilot Installation.

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85 acre Brooklyn Bridge Park was built with sustainability in mind ... from EV service vehicles to reused / recycled construction materials from prior buildings on the site.

" ...  Designed and built by BE, ... the first solar-powered charging station in New York City and one of only a few in the world. ..."

Over the projected 25 year life of the EV chargers will save "... more than $200,000 in gasoline costs ... More than 530 tons of CO2 ..."

The EV charging system has 24 PV panels with battery storage for 7 x 24 availability can produce 5.6 Kw. 

Via:  Beautiful Earth Group  LINK

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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

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Murphy’s Run in Cecil County Maryland offers buyers a home in a certified green development.  “ … is one of only twelve developments nationwide to be green certified by the National Green Building Certification Program. “

The homes are insulated with SIS or structural insulated sheathing and equipped with “ … energy star windows and appliances … CFL bulbs … low-flow shower heads …”

See the video for more … 

Via:  ABC News  LINK

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After building a very efficient building in Boulder, Colorado, the NERL is building an extension that is 17 % more efficient.  How ?  By looking at changes in available technology in the last year that can bring energy improvements.

One area for change was the windows.  Those in Phase 1 are very efficient but still those on the southern exposure were cold ... changes made for Phase 2 included making them slightly smaller and increasing the thermal break to slow air infiltration that can cause temperature changes.  When these savings are multiplied over 600 windows the energy efficiency is significant.

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Tastykake opened the world's largest LEED bakery in the world at the Philadelphia Navy Yard.  The facility is a reuse of any existing structure and the facility has lots of green technology.  It is going for LEED Silver certification.

Green features include a white roof, solar panels on the roof and bike racks to encourage carbon free commuting.

 Additionally ... " No-mow, drought-resistant grass that uses less water ... using environmentally friendly refrigerants to minimize ... global warming ... access to public transportation ... heat-recycling system, ... products are packed in recyclable cartons and cases that save trees."

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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

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Mexico deploys sustainability strategy into its government housing program.  …

…   “CONAVI's National Housing Program includes the regulation and standardization of green-housing modifications and norms to maintain high-quality, environmentally sustainable housing options.”   …

Via Knowledge @ Wharton: Sustainable Housing.

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will test new technology applications in real world scenarios, centralize the results, and facilitate on-going conversations among the participants.  …

…   “First, it will provide companies with opportunities in buildings to test their innovations in operational buildings, which will help them improve their products as well as collect data on their performance, both keys to marketing their products. In exchange, participating building owners would be eligible to employ the technologies at discounted rates.

Second, it will develop an information and data clearinghouse to track building technology costs, benefits, and lessons learned from deployments underway throughout the City.

Third, it will host stakeholder discussions with private sector and academic institutions on green building entrepreneurship, financing and City-specific challenges.”   …

Via IBM: New York City Technology Innovation Center, Press Release.

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Home energy management system is being commercialized by Verizon.  It keeps you connected to your home’s energy use allowing you to optimize your building power consumption. 

The service has entered the trial phase and is expected to be available in the first half of 2011.  Verizon customers will be able to lock doors remotely; see what's going on at home via networked cameras; and set, adjust and control lights, smart thermostats and appliances -- all by using a smartphone.  …

…   “Verizon will be demonstrating its new connected home service, complete with energy management, which the telco is piloting in New Jersey starting this month.”   …

Via Reuters: CES Green Tech Highllights.

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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

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Sustainability is integrated into the design of the Arizona State University College of Nursing & Health building.  This green building has achieved LEED Gold status through its design principles and construction materials and techniques.  …

…   “The sustainable LEED-NC Gold certified building features solar water heating, which harvests Arizona's abundant renewable energy while reducing the building's carbon footprint.

More than three-quarters of construction waste (967 tons) was diverted from conventional landfills, materials used for the project contained recycled content and 70 percent of all wood products were certified by the Forest Stewardship.”   …

Via Arizona State University: LEED Gold Building Design.

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Students learn from real-world experiences at Elon University and senior team integrates classroom education with problem solving by proposing solutions to energy problems at campus building.  …

…   “As a part of their Environmental Studies Senior Seminar class, they are creating a proposal for green renovations and enhancements of the Powell House throughout the semester.”   …

Via Elon University: Senior Project.

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Sarah Nettleton designs structures with sustainability in mind.  She will lecture next week at the college to educate and inspire the next generation of designers.  …

…   “acclaimed green architect Sarah Nettleton will present a lecture in Wallenberg Auditorium, Tuesday, November 16 at 4:30 p.m. on the Gustavus Adolphus College campus. As part of this day-long residency, one of Nettleton’s creations, The Spear House on the Ottawa Road, will be open to the public to tour from 1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. that same day. ”   …

Via Gustavus Adolphus College: Green Architecture.

Sarah Nettleton Architects.

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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

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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

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What's a quick easy way to save money .... year after year? 

Insulate !!

EcoBatt insulation is made from "bio-based" binders - not petroleum derived raw materials and is certified to GREENGUARD standards so it is safe for children and use in schools.

 " ... reduces binder embodied energy by up to 70%, and does not contain phenol, formaldehyde, acrylics or artificial colors used to make traditional fiberglass insulation."

" .... combines sand ... renewable resources, post-consumer recycled bottle glass ... to create ... sustainable insulation…"

Via: EcoBatt  LINK

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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

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Wyoming’s Kendall House builds energy-efficient addition with sustainable design, materials, and renewable energy powering electrical requirements.  …

…   “The house features several different green aspects, including a photovoltaic solar system, which will provide about 30 percent of the house's electrical needs. ”   …

Via University of Wyoming: Bim Kendall House.

The Bim Kendall House.

Haub School of Environment and Natural Resources.

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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

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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

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Wisconsin lake house integrates cool, modern design with sustainable, LEED platinum capabilities.  The house deploys geothermal and solar photovoltaic systems.  …

…   “one of two homes in Wisconsin to gain platinum LEED certification for its green features … ”   …

Via New York Times: Modern Lake House (pic), (article).

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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

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Students will live in a sustainable environment as they move in for the school year.  The new building has been constructed to LEED Silver standards.  …

…   “With solar panels on the roof to heat water and touch screens in the hallways for monitoring energy usage, Wake Forest University’s new residence hall has the latest in green technology.

First-year students will move into South Residence Hall Aug. 19. ”   …

Via Wake Forest: Sustainable Living.

Wake Forest South Residence Hall.

LEED Silver Standard.

Wake Forest University Sustainability Leadership.

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The Physalia concept integrates mobility and sustainability into restoring European waterways.  Vincent Callebaut is the architect that developed this concept to ply the waters of Europe cleaning as it goes.  …

…   “It’s the same technology used in certain high-tech concrete that breaks down airborne particulates.  As the vessel whips along, purifying waterways, it can draw on both solar and hydro power. ”   …

Via Popular Science: Green Architecture.

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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

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St. Mary’s University engineers rise to the challenge and create 1.4 kW solar panel system to demonstrate that the local event can be accomplished with a lower carbon footprint.  The engineering students are being recognized by the City of San Antonio during their Green Building awards.  …

…   “The St. Mary’s students built the solar panel system in response to the Mayor Julián Castro’s Fiesta Verde campaign, which was the Mayor’s idea to make Fiesta more green by promoting recycling efforts at most of the major Fiesta events.

Churchwell, Srinivasan and Crowell answered that call and one upped it by building a solar panel system equipped with a backup battery that lit 14 food booths for 40 hours—even with the cloudy skies and rain leading up to and during Fiesta Oyster Bake!

It took the awesome threesome just under a month to build the impressive eight solar panel system …”   …

Via St. Mary’s University: Green Building Award (Link).

Engineering students are addressing the renewable energy challenge:

Two engineering students from MIT and a business school student from Harvard pursue biofuel from microbes process.

Team of PhD chemical engineering students has developed a carbon nano-based transparent electrode that will increase the efficiency of thin film photovoltaic solar panels.

Oregon Institute of Technology student, who is majoring in Renewable Energy Engineering, receives project funding support from Portland General Electric for monitoring the performance of a wind and solar power system.

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Intel's first GOLD LEED certified site is scheduled to open in June 2010 in Haifa, Israel.  The site is called is a design center called IDC-9 and is " ... first facility in Israel ... with a (LEED) certification. ... Intel’s first  ... has a Gold certification pending for its Octollio campus in Chandler, Ariz."

" ...natural lighting, ... available to about 75 percent of the “populated” areas of the building ... individually controlled lighting for a higher degree of energy efficiency"

Via:  ZDNet  LINK

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Montana State student teams will collaborate with suppliers to build an ecoSmart home in the Bozeman area.  The house will feature a number of technologies, but will focus on passive heating.  …

…   “Because of REHAU's involvement, a variety of other suppliers joined in the project, which will feature such sustainable building technologies as geothermal ground loop heat exchange, ground-air heat exchange; radiant heating and cooling; solar thermal energy for hot water; and insulating concrete forms.”   …

Via Montana State University: Bozeman Sustainable House.

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Continue reading "Research the best green roof" »

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Onset introduces wireless sensing hubs that communicate with centralized monitoring to understand energy use and environmental conditions in buildings.  …

…   “HOBO ZW Series data nodes reduce the cost and complexity of data collection by measuring, recording and transmitting real-time energy use and environmental data – from dozens of points – to a central PC. Different from traditional data loggers, HOBO data nodes work together in a self-healing wireless network to transmit logged data to a PC at regular intervals.

This eliminates the need of having to spend time retrieving collected data from individual data loggers deployed throughout a facility.  The wireless nodes can measure temperature, relatively humidity, kilowatt hours, CO2, AC voltage, amps, gauge pressure, and a variety of other parameters. ”   …

Via Onset: Wireless data nodes.

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Pythagoras will commercialize a solar power generating window that can be integrated into green buildings, BIPV.  …

…   “Pythagoras Solar leverages a combination of patent-pending optics, high-efficiency crystalline silicon, advanced materials science and simulation software to create a highly efficient photovoltaic glass unit (PVGU), a new category of green building material. Unlike existing BIPV products, Pythagoras Solar curtain walls, skylights and windows simultaneously block solar radiation; concentrate sunlight and convert it into solar power; and deliver a high level of transparency for optimal daylighting and aesthetics.”   …

Via Pythagoras Solar: Green building material.

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About a week ago I wrote about the cool roof project in Philadelphia [LINK].  The winning block was just announced ... the 1200 Block of Wolf Street.

The residents on this block showed tremendous enthusiasm and community spirit in their quest to become the 'Coolest'. Plus, every roof on the block is suitable for a 'cool roof' coating! 

"In the coming weeks, ... this block ... receive its prize-an energy audit and energy-efficient upgrades, such as insulation, air sealing and a 'cool roof'! And we'll celebrate with a block party in June!"

" ...  check out their winning essay!"

"Cool roofs reflect the sun's heat ... are about 50-80 degrees cooler than typical asphalt roofs and come in a variety of colors.  White is the "coolest" because it most efficiently reflects the sun's rays. "

Via:  RetroFit Philly LINK

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Real Estate developers are seeing the value in being able to offer sustainable green buildings.

"Aegis Property Group ... integrating energy and environmental leadership principals and practices into its development management services capabilities. ...Corporate commitment to LEED program. ...an active leadership role ... in the Green Building Council ... continuing education in green principles and LEED ... Advocacy of green principles ... as appropriate in our client’s projects."

"Sustainable design, construction and operation ... is no longer a luxury - it is an absolute necessity."

Via:  AEGIS Property Group  LINK

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" ... RetroFIT PHILLY "Coolest Block" contest ... with product and technology contributions from The Dow Chemical Company ... invites row home owners to enter to win energy-saving cool roof, air sealing and insulation upgrades for their entire block."

"... Greenworks Philadelphia  goal is to retrofit 15 percent of the city's row home roofs, and the 'Coolest Block' contest is jumpstarting this effort," said Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter...."

" ... cool roofs are a proven way to combat urban heat island effect. The roof's exterior is 50 – 80 degrees cooler on hot summer days, helping to lower high temperatures and improve air quality. ..."

Via: The Dow Chemical Company  LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 09:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Great example of the talented graduates of architecture education, who are prepared to address the world’s challenges.  …

… “We’re also looking at how to implement biogas, solar panels and wind turbines, says Bukowski, who earned her LEED accreditation last year.”   …

Via Washington University in St. Louis: Tegan Bukowski, Architect.

Posted by Green Tech at 09:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Redmond, Washington creates a set of indicators to track trends in the community.  Urban development trends are tracked through the volume of LEED rated buildings.  …

… “To qualify for LEED certification, a development must earn a certain number of credits, each linked to a green building practice.  Eight buildings were LEED certified in Redmond during 2009.”   …

Via City of Redmond, Washington: Community Indicators 2010 (PDF).

Posted by Green Tech at 09:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Sonoma State offers education opportunity in green building …

… “This Certificate Program is designed with the working professional in mind. It is a yearlong program focused on developing the understanding necessary to enable sustainable building decision making within a corporate, institutional, non-profit, municipal or individual setting. ”   …

Via City of Petaluma: Resources for Building Professionals (PDF).

Posted by Green Tech at 09:04 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

through leveraging investment and legislative options.  …

… “This report presents an extensive menu of options, spanning across a wide range of programs, which the Administration could begin implementing immediately to advance a high performance, efficient green buildings agenda. All told, the programs identified in this report have the potential to directly provide or facilitate over $72 billion in funding or loan guarantees,2 and can leverage hundreds of billions of dollars in private investment through instruments such as mortgage insurance and regulation of the real estate lending market. Even a small fraction of this funding would, if directed to high-performing energy efficient and sustainable buildings, stimulate significant new “green” investments and job creation. “ …

Via US Green Building Council: Greener Buildings (PDF)

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With Google Earth you can "Tour 3D models of Green Buildings around the United States. ... includes campus buildings, parks, offices, homes, and schools that were designed and constructed using environmentally sensitive design techniques ... start the tour, double-click the "Start tour here" link in the Places panel and make sure the "3D Buildings" layer is checked. The models are also located in the Google 3D Warehouse at http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse "

Via:  Google  LINK

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Intel's new design center in Haifa, Israel is LEED Gold certified.  It opened in June.

Some of the highlights ...

"...received LEED Gold certification ... for ... Intel Design Center – IDC 9 – ... in Haifa, Israel ..."

" ... Intel's first certified green facility, IDC 9 is the first building in Israel to receive LEED Gold-level recognition."

" ... was built on land previously occupied by a parking lot to not damage any natural resources. ... "

" ...  rooftop garden to enhance thermal insulation and prevent the building from retaining excessive heat ... A method for capturing and recycling condensate water from the air conditioning system for irrigation. ..."

Via:  Intel  LINK

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Folks in Sonoma, California are working to design and refine a Passive House ... but what exactly is a passive home?

" ... a building that has a minimal impact on its surroundings. ... as systems unto themselves. ... well-insulated — virtually airtight — ... most of the “heat” ... comes from the humans and appliances and other stuff running in them. Heat exchangers are used to circulate it. ... in the United States ... focus has been certifying according the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED framework ...."

Via:  SmartPlanet  LINK

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Darden Restaurants - owner of Red Lobster and other restaurant brands - is embracing the USGBC LEED Standards.

" ... launching a sustainable restaurant design initiative ... will require that all new restaurants be built to the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED standards ... need to be built following the LEED Rating Systems code when feasible."

" ... launching with eight restaurants that have been built, or are in the process of being built, to achieve LEED certification."

Via: FORBES LINK

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" ... The number of affordable, energy-efficient modular homes continues to increase as Pennsylvania-based builder Excel Homes offers a new line aimed at first-time buyers ... targeted to be sold for under $100,000, and depending on region, for as low as $60,000. ..."

" ... Excel Homes ... has built 28,000 modular homes since its founding in 1984 ...  built in sect

ions ... in Liverpool, Pa., and Marlboro, N.Y., and transported ... where they are assembled... come with the government's Energy Star label for energy efficiency ... prices do not include the cost of land...."

Via: USAToday LINK

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The UTS Tower in Sydney, Australia is may get a proposed upgrade - a solar skin.  This PV "wrap" would turn the tower into a very green and energy efficient structure.

The University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Tower "upgrade" is " ... Fueled by the university’s sustainability drive ... turn the building into a “landmark environmental tower” by wrapping it in a photovoltaic skin."

"The sustainable energy system, devised by postgraduate students in 2008, has been funded to allow students to build and test the project."

 There are a number of propose upgrades including wind turbines and cogeneration ... the solar skin " ... stretches around walls and roof elements ... the building is covered in a lightweight composite mesh textile that can collect rain water, generate electricity and complement the plan’s passive ventilation system that uses natural convection."

Via:  SmartPlanet  LINK

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The GSA is renovating the 18 story federal building in Portland, Oregon.  Green features include a vertical green wall and reduced water usage with low flow fixtures and recycled roof water.

"... part of a $133 million renovation, the General Services Administration wants to grow “vegetated fins” on the western facade of the Edith Green-Wendell Wyatt Federal Building ... save energy year-round using one of Mother Nature’s own tools."

" ... will use 60 to 65 percent less energy than comparable buildings. That translates to an energy cost savings of $280,000 per year."

"Solar panels could also provide up to 15 percent of the building’s power needs. Energy use for lighting will be halved."

Posted by Green Dude at 06:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

... "75,000-seat stadium will be the first LEED-certified building in the NFL and will capture the luxury and drama of the world’s entertainment capital. The project will be completed for the 2011 season. " ...

Posted by Green Tech at 01:30 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Green buildings and designs are being found all across the country ... the Housing Authority Administration building in Newport, Tennessee is green.  Read about the many green features and technologies used.

" ... 8,585 square foot administration building ... Design included multiple "green" features: photovaltaic solar panels, geothermal heating and cooling, premium insulation package, Energy Star windows and lighting, low flow faucets and toilets and low impact site design. Project cost was $1,000,000.00."

Via:  McGraw-Hill Construction Community   LINK

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There is a new Green building in NYC - at the southern tip of Manhattan in Battery Park City.  Read about the Visionaire - it is one very green building - though a very expensive place to live with pricing startling at just under $700,000 and going to a little over $6 million.

" ...  the Visionaire ... a testing ground for urban green architecture."

" ... saves an estimated 42 percent in energy costs against a base-line average. This is largely the result of efficient building systems and the building envelope ... goal was achieved through exhaustive attention to detail ... "

Via:  Greensource  LINK

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" ... data center developer Verne Global ... announced it is constructing the first international data center in Iceland ... converting a former NATO command center into a data center."

" ... designed to take full advantage of Iceland's infrastructure and environment ... the data center, whose total footprint is about 430,600 square feet, will be designed around LEED Gold standards ... will deploy innovative practices of HVAC and adaptive reuse of the world-class facilities already in place."

" ... will benefit from the large amount of free cooling available in Iceland, as well as its renewable energy sources and constant power rates."

" ... Verne Global is breaking new ground in using Iceland's natural green resources to mitigate both increasing emissions and rising energy costs."

Via:  Web Host Industry Review  LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 06:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Puppy Toys have gone GREEN.

We recently got a puppy and have noticed there are lots of GREEN puppy (and cat) things to be had ...

" ... In an age of disposability, these products stand the test of time. ... Utilizing eco friendly materials, such as reclaimed cotton, organic cotton, eco fabric and stuffing made with IntelliLoft™ recycled fibers, reyclable Zogoflex, and recycled fabric that can be recycled again ... "

" ... developed a manufacturing process that minimizes waste (currently as low as 2.4%!) ... our state-of-the-art building ... was constructed using the latest developments in energy efficient design in 2001 ... building expansion in 2009 and 2010 ... reclaiming 30,000 lbs of concrete."

" ... Reclaimed and reused old boxes are utilized to store finished goods rather than plastic manufacturing totes ... also incorporate recycled material in our shipping boxes."

Via:  West Paw Design  LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 07:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

... "The school building's features include tall, north-facing windows that control enough light and heat gain to reduce the school’s need for electricity by 50 percent. In addition, classrooms and many other areas in the building rely on naturally occurring convection currents rather than noisy, high-maintenance and energy-hungry ventilation systems. " ...

Continue reading "Livable Green Building" »

Posted by Green Tech at 06:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

PNC is well known for their green projects ... one of their ads says they have more green buildings than any other bank ...

In addition to having green buildings - PNC now has a GREEN WALL. " ... the largest green wall in North America ... 2,380 sq. ft., soil-based wall - similar in size to a doubles tennis court - features a variety of regional plants grown into living art on the south-facing wall of One PNC Plaza ... in downtown Pittsburgh." " ... estimated that each of the 602 panels, with 24 plants in each 2x2 sq. ft. space, will offset the carbon footprint of one person. ... similar to a green roof, will help to cool the 30-story building ... wall is a fitting reminder that PNC is the world leader in green building ...".

" ... has more newly constructed buildings certified by the United States Green Building Council under its LEED® program than any other company in the world ... includes 64 trademark Green Branch® locations and two office buildings. About 20 environmentally friendly branches and two other major buildings are under construction or awaiting LEED certification." Via: PRNewsWire LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 05:39 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Ever wonder why office building always seem to be lit up at night ? Often if is because the lighting controls do not allow for fine lighting control .... lights are either on or off for the whole floor ... or a large portion of the floor. I recall this when I worked in office buildings past the automatic "lights out" time programmed into the lighting relays.

"Commercial office buildings are one of the main culprits of the current climate crisis ... consume large amounts of electricity and release excessive carbon emissions ... Adura Technologies has developed a mesh-based lighting system that is reducing costs and consumption inside buildings. The technology consists of wireless radios that plug into florescent light fixtures giving employees more control over their personal lighting space. ... also created a dual motion sensing-personal control system that is being used at UC Berkeley that allows students to break the hard-wired connection and control their lighting from their desktop PCs."

Posted by Green Dude at 05:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Looking to add a green roof?  Lots of building are now sporting green roofs.  There are a number of environmental and economical reasons to green the roof.  A green roof can even help get a LEED certification.

"Urban Heat Island Mitigation ... Green roof vegetation helps by cooling the air, slowing air movement and acting as a substrate for pollution to settle out and detoxify. ... Noise Reduction ... Plants, soil, and air trapped in the soil are great acoustic insulators.  ... green roofs can reduce indoor sound by as much as 40 decibels ... Fire Prevention ... Succulent green roof plants help reduce the risk of fire. ..."

"Water Conservation/Reduction of Storm Water Runoff ... green roof systems acts like a sponge and absorbs excess rain water ... green roof systems can reduce runoff by up to 90+% annually ... Habitat Recreation
Plants and soil help recreate habitat for butterflies, insects, and songbirds. "

Check out LiveRoof for more information.

Via:  LiveRoof LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 01:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

... "The Cronkite building was constructed with numerous sustainable features, including an east-west orientation for solar control, exterior overhangs and sunscreens for shading windows, energy-saving materials to help optimize building-energy performance, low or no-water landscaping, low-flow plumbing fixtures, building materials that meet LEED low-emitting product requirements and occupancy sensors for lighting control. " ...

Posted by Green Tech at 09:53 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

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 "HP recognizes the important role that the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector will play in enabling carbon dioxide (CO2) reductions ... committed to reducing our own contribution to climate change as well as developing IT solutions that can help lower or reduce the release of greenhouse gases (GHG) such as CO2 into the atmosphere. ...  In most countries, buildings are the largest driver for both energy use and CO2 equivalent (CO2e) emissions. The 160 million buildings of the EU, for example, are estimated to use over 40 percent of Europe’s energy and to drive over 40 percent of its carbon dioxide emissions ..."

"HP’s Intelligent Building Competence Center (IBCC) offers the BuilDog solution for the next generation of fully managed and optimized buildings ... manage a buildings heating and cooling and electricity use as well as security, facilities, inventory, telecommunications and more. Smart management ... can result in reductions of 25-35% (in cost) through optimization of the facility as well as resource use and purchase."

Via:  HP LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 05:58 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Along with Net ZERO energy houses folks are now talking about Net ZERO Water homes.  The idea is to be self sufficient - self sustaining and off the "water grid".

" ... Water ... requires energy to deliver, so excess use compounds our energy problems ... many renewable sources of power, such as solar, require massive amounts of water as an input, creating further pressure on limited resources."

"Net Zero water is an analogous concept to net zero energy. Through ... rainfall harvesting, aggressive conservation, and water recycling, buildings can achieve self-sufficiency from the water “grid.”"

Via:  TerraPAss  LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 08:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

It's always nice to save some energy (energy = money).  Sometimes these are really easy low cost ideas.  Check these out ...simple, easy and low tech ...

" ...  Put a timer on your hot-water heater ... no need for your hot water heater to keep running 24/7. ... if you're going away for a few days, turn your hot-water heater off altogether ... change the last of your old bulbs to CFLs. It's getting darker earlier, and than means we need more lighting. Be green and save energy. ... LED flashlights. ..."

Via:  SustainLane  LINK

Posted by Green Dude at 09:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

... "the only visible sign of what the owners hope to be an environmental model for the world is a pallet of dirt and sedum on the tower's 90th floor roof, the beginnings of a green roof so high that only mountain vegetation can grow there. " ...

Posted by Green Tech at 11:25 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Here is an interesting approach toi reducing waste and CO2 at the same time.  Using fly ash (waste and high in CO2) to make bricks solves both.

Read about CalStar's  approach >>> 

" ... CalStar directly addresses global climate change and CO2 emissions ... Brick is an energy- and carbon-intensive industry ... U.S. demand for brick is almost 10 billion units in a typical year. At 1.3 pounds of CO2 per brick, the industry footprint equals almost 13 billion pounds of CO2 per year. ..."

 "Our commitment to green extends to product safety ...  to ensure they are safe throughout their lifecycle, from manufacture to placement to use (and reuse) to end-of-life disposal ...  process for making fly ash into bricks binds the materials within a strong crystalline matrix that holds even if exposed to the intense acids found in landfills. ..."

"CalStar ... promotes pragmatic solutions to climate change .... reducing the carbon footprint of cement, the biggest lever for industry has been and continues to be substitution of fly ash for CO2-intensive Ordinary Portland Cement. "

Via:  Calstar  LINK

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White roofs are the "hot" thing in roofing ... allowing for a lowed burden on a/c systems.

But dark colored roofs can bring solar gain to warm buildings ... if only roof tiles were smart enough to know ...

The next "hot" thing in roofing might be roofing that can change color based on outdoor temperature to maximize or minimize solar gain.

"MIT researchers have developed roof tiles that change color based on the temperature, turning white when it’s hot to deflect heat and turning black when it’s cold to absorb it ... the tiles can reflect about 80 percent of sunlight when they’re white and 30 percent of sunlight when they’re black. ... white state ... could save as much as 20 percent of present cooling costs ..."

" ... system ... made of a ... polymer in a water solution ... encapsulated between flexible plastic layers, with a dark layer at the back. When the temperature is above a certain level ... the polymer  ... produce a white surface and scatter light.  ... Below that temperature, the polymer stays dissolved, revealing the tile’s black backing and absorbing the sun’s heat ..."

Via: SmartPlanet LINK

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Continue reading "Solar Decathlon University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Gable Home Leads into the Competition HomeStretch" »

Posted by Green Tech at 11:21 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Sometime low tech is the way to go ... painting a flat roof white can reduce the A/C load on a building and keep it cooler ...

This low tech solution " ... can act much like earth's snow covered poles; reflecting the sun’s light and heat as opposed to absorbing it ... keeps buildings cooler, reducing the problem of urban heat islands and saving energy (and money). ... we could counteract global warming simply by increasing the Earth’s total reflective surface. ..."

" ... Changing from a dark shingle ... to a light-colored (titanium-based white or terra cotta red) shingle can cut air conditioning costs by up to 40%. Georgia has been a leader in pushing cool roofs, passing a state law encouraging the shift. ... other states and regions also provide incentives, and the federal government is considering adding heat reflectivity requirements to housing regulations. "

Via:  WorldChanging  LINK  and LINK

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Oberlin College's Living Machine® is a waste water treatment system that teaches students how nature purified water for years ... but is unlike most modern systems.

"Invented by Dr. John Todd, of Living Machines, Inc. ... Wastewater flows from the building into two underground reactors ... an anaerobic biological process begins digestion of the wastes.  ... wastewater flows through two closed aerobic reactors ... where the remaining organic compounds are further degraded. ...[then] ... enters the Living Machine® solarium and flows through three open aerobic reactors. ... plants such as papyrus, calla lilies and willows root into the planted aerobic reactors and assist in the treatment process."

" ... biosolids are settled out of the wastewater in a clarifier. ... then flows through a constructed wetland surrounding the open aerobic tanks for final ‘polishing.’ Ultraviolet disinfection is the final step prior to the treated wastewater being reused in the buildings’ toilets."

Posted by Green Dude at 09:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Continue reading "Solar Decathlon Team California Refract House Leads with Architecture and Communications" »

Posted by Green Tech at 09:43 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Continue reading "Solar Decathlon Germany House Technology Showcase" »

Posted by Green Tech at 08:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Continue reading "Solar Decathlon Rice University ZeROW House Designed for Affordability" »

Posted by Green Tech at 10:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

I heard about recycled blue jeans being used as building insulation at the 2009 Solar Decathlon in DC this past Saturday (Oct 10th).

"UltraTouch Natural Cotton Fiber insulation ... revolutionary patented manufacturing process that has created a superior and safe product. ... made from high quality natural fibers. ... DOES NOT ITCH and is very easy to handle and work with."

" ... contains no chemical irritants ... requires no warning labels ... no VOC concerns ... it is safe for you and the environment."

" ... meets the highest ASTM testing standards for fire and smoke ratings, fungi resistance and corrosiveness. ... contains 85% post-industrial recycled natural fibers making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to use a high quality sustainable building material."

 " ... available to purchase nationally on The Home Depot website or through your local distributor."

Via:  Bonded Logic  LINK

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Solar Decathlon 2009 is in full swing on the Mall in Washington DC. 

With the US Capital on one end and the Washington Memorial on the other it is an amazing site.  Sponsored by the U.S. DOE there are 20 houses showing what is possible with green technologies - using current off the shelf products and some very creative thinking.

Most of the teams are from US colleges  with several international entries ... including Spain and Germany.

Given parameters of 800 sq ft there are some very creative solutions.  Some stress extreme insulation, all have some sort of garden area, all have solar PV and some have solar hot water.  Most interesting is the creative use of 800 sq ft ...

As of this writing RICE is in the lead ... thought the difference between top and bottom on the ranking is not all that great.  Yesterday was very sunny so anyone with LOTS of PV was sure to get extra points ...

 Look for more posts and some GREENTECHNOLOG pictures ...

Via:  Greentechnolog.com  LINK

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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. "

" ...  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. ..."

Posted by Green Dude at 06:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

The Dow Chemical company is active in the green energy space with several innovative products.  They recently announced their entry into the solar cell market with the " ... POWERHOUSE™ Solar Shingle, ... panels in the form of solar shingles that can be integrated into rooftops with standard asphalt shingle materials. ... expected to be available in limited quantities by mid-2010 and ... more widely available in 2011, ..."

"... integrates low-cost, thin-film CIGS photovoltaic cells into a proprietary roofing shingle design, ... design reduces installation costs because the conventional roofing shingles and solar generating shingles are installed simultaneously by roofing contractors ..."

"... addresses two of the biggest challenges associated with solar power – cost and acceptance. "

Posted by Green Dude at 03:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

... "The U's ICON house, named for how its asymmetrical roof may come to symbolize solar homes in the future, is powered entirely by the sun. It has solar panels aplenty plus the latest in energy-efficient materials. " ...

Continue reading "Univ Minnesota Solar House Design, ICON-ic" »

Posted by Green Tech at 09:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

... "Natural Fusion is the first residential project to utilize the Solyndra cylindrical photovoltaics, which captures more sunlight throughout the entire day than traditional flat panels, which can only capture the most intense sunlight in the middle of the day. It's a system called Green Roof Integrated Photovoltaics (GRIP V) where the properties of the green roof beneath the panels create greater efficiency in powering the house. " ...

Continue reading "Cylindrical Solar Photovoltaics to Power Penn State Natural Fusion Home at the Solar Decathlon" »

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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

Posted by Green Dude at 07:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

... "The residual heat released is used to heat the building. In addition, an innovative Borehole Energy Storage (BES) system is being laid. The system uses 100-metre-deep boreholes to temporarily store cold energy deep underground. This air is then transferred to the building via an ingenious, energy-conserving piping network, for climate conditioning. Solar panels are placed on the roof to preheat warm water for the building’s restrooms." ...

Posted by Green Tech at 06:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Serious Materials produces a line of green environmentally friendly building products that help homeowners save energy ...


"... develops and manufactures sustainable green building materials that dramatically reduce the impact of the 'built environment' on the climate."

" ... aim for breakthroughs in product performance, without requiring changes in customer behavior or in how products are used – thus speeding market adoption."

" Serious Windows high-performance insulated windows and glass, which can reduce heating and cooling energy costs and emissions up to 40% ...QuietRock soundproof drywall & QuietHome Windows, which can reduce material use, GreenRock™, a green alternative to standard drywall ... uses 80% less energy to produce its core, resulting in 80% lower CO2 emissions. ... "

" ... manufacture products in ... Sunnyvale, California; Newark, California; Boulder, Colorado; Vandergrift, Pennsylvania. ... to create thousands of green collar jobs ... in the U.S. Products are widely available through building products dealers in the U.S. and Canada."

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 Prairie Bunkers LLC is repurposing WWII ammunition depots into secure energy efficient data centers.  These structures are built to withstand force 5 tornadoes.

In addition to the green aspect of repurposing an existing building ... there are others green features.

"Saves approximately 5000 cubic tons of carbon emission which would be produced by construction of a similar structure ... electrical provider .... has a high percentage of renewable energy, including hydro, wind and nuclear ... On-site solar and wind energy systems in planning stages ... Air Economizers to use “free cooling” from average annual temperature of 54 degrees ... Optional active geothermal ... heat pump system ... Passive Geothermal, provided by the bermed earth covering on three sides and top of bunkers ..."

" .... Native vegetation landscaping minimizes irrigation ... Fire suppression agent has zero carbon foot print ... UPS Options including flywheel technology ... Recycled building products including flooring tiles and cable trays ..."

Via:  Prairie Bunkers, LLC LINK

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Imaging a ZERO energy home.  Sound realistic? GE thinks so !

GE's “Net Zero Energy Home” ..." ... combines GE’s most efficient appliances and lighting, GE’s new energy management systems, and GE power generating and storing technologies. ... together, the system will enable a homeowner to achieve net zero energy costs by 2015."

" ... the Home Energy Manager, the central nervous system for the Net Zero Energy Home. ... smart thermostats will also be introduced ... to work in tandem with the energy manager. ... plans to develop residential power generation products like solar PV and residential wind products that will also contribute to the net zero concept."

" ... respondents in the U.S. and ... in the U.K. say they are willing to pay an increased monthly rate for smart grid technology if there is a corresponding reduction in overall energy costs by 15 percent."

Via:  GE  LINK

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A current trend in office space for smaller companies or those looking for a remote presence is to rent by the day.  the HUB offers "GREEN Meeting and Event Centers" on an as needed basis.

" ... only privately-held LEED Silver Rated Meeting and Event Facility in the U.S. ...[LEED is] ... nationally accepted standard for certifying high-performance green interiors that are healthy, ... less costly to operate and maintain, and reduce environmental footprint ...achieved a LEED-CI Silver rating at its Cira Centre location ..."

There are many GREEN design elements incorporated including use of recycled materials, reduced water usage, brownfield redevelopment, and use of local materials.

"... The Hub is 100% wind powered, ... aggressively recycles ... discontinued the use of plastic water bottles in all of its facilities  ... More than 15% of the new materials ... were recycled ... More than 20% of the materials ... are of local origin (manufactured within 500 miles of the location) ... constructed on a rehabilitated "brownfield" railyard ..."

Via:  the HUb  LINK

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New Belgium Brewing is a green brewer ... read about some of their efforts and innovations in green brewing ... there are many many more on their web site.

Green building ... " ... using UV blocking windows, sun-tubes, and light shelves. .. evaporative coolers, we can condition our 55,000 square foot packaging hall with no compressors, using much less energy ... "

Green energy ... " ... methane produced by process water treatment is used to fuel a ... co-gen—which creates electricity and heat for the brewery. ... co-gen ... full-time, it can supply 15% of our electrical needs ... In 1999, New Belgium became the first wind-powered brewery ..."

Posted by Green Dude at 05:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

Berkeley, California is into solar and wants to help residents and businesses make the move to solar.   To help they offer two tools ...

> One tool is a solar portal that allows property owners to look at their roof and determine both the solar potential and the cost. 

>A second tool provides financing paid by by taxes

" ... Solar Mapping ... estimate the solar potential of their rooftops and view existing solar installations. ... get an estimated size of a photovoltaic (PV) system that would fit ... obtain detailed information on tax rebates and choose from a listing of available installers ... map reflects elements such as rooftop structures, the slant of the roof, shading ... and ... azimuth of the sun for PV panel placement."

" ... Berkeley FIRST program, a solar finance program ... provides property owners an opportunity to borrow money ... and repay the financing through property tax bills."

 Via:  MatterNetwork LINK

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In an earlier post of this blog (June 25th,m 2009) I wrote about Microsoft hohm, a new beta software application that would help homeowners better understand their energy usage and give suggestions to save money.

Yesterday I got the link inviting me to try it ... here are some of the details ... 

 hohm is a web application that develops a detailed "picture" of your home and its energy use using a very detailed series of questions.  Questions cover ... the direction the front of your home faces ... and includes details about all major systems  and about the number of windows and square footage of widows on each side of the house.  See graphic to the right for pictures of the categories of questions.

After filling out 75% of the questions I was able to get a list of "best ways to spend

50, 100, and 500 dollars".

So far I found hohm easy to use and informative ... and the initial Q & A took about 20 minutes.

More details as the "experiment" continues !

Via:  Microsoft hohm  LINK

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 Zwahlen's is a local (Audubon PA) ice cream and chocolate establishment that just so happens to have the first commercial use of SRS Energy's Sole Power Tile Roof.

I was driving past the store last evening when my son told me about the sign on the front that  said --- something along the lines "the best ice cream under the sun is now powered by the sun".  I needed to check this out ...

" SRS Energy, ...installed ... the first building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) roofing product designed for curved roofing systems, ... the first commercial installation of the Sole Power Tile(TM) system  ..."

"T...a great example of how time-tested traditions and cutting-edge technology can meet to create something beautiful," said Marty Low, CEO of SRS Energy and owner of Zwahlen's. "

" ... designed to blend seamlessly with several styles of US Tile's clay tiles, providing energy without the use of traditional solar panels that can compromise a building's roofline and curb appeal. ... preserves Zwahlen's charming Swiss chalet look."

"SRS Energy recently introduced the Sole Power Tile(TM) system to the greater Philadelphia region at the PV America show, held at the Pennsylvania Convention center during the week of June 7, 2009."

SRS Energy's Sole Power Tile can generate 500 Watts per sq ft.

Via:  EarthTimes  LINK

Via:  SRS Energy  LINK

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Philadelphia is a city of row houses ... unfortunately many are in blighted condition and when they are town down the newly  created "end units" are poorly insulated.  Cleaning up the blighted homes causes the other homeowners to have basically little or no insulation on a large surface of their home.

"In the interest of creating local green jobs, the city hopes to find a local manufacturer." " ... product consists of layers of insulating foam (for thermal protection), high-density foam (to absorb impact), fabric (to prevent penetration of sharp objects), and a latex-stucco finish.  ... produce it in 2-by-4-foot panels that will be affixed to a wall with a foaming adhesive."

" ... Philadelphia University's help was enlisted after the city determined that existing exterior-wrap products were too expensive and not sufficiently durable."

Via:  Philadelphia University  LINK

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... "Derive 50 percent of the energy used in company-operated stores from renewable sources by 2010; Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by making company-operated stores 25 percent more energy efficient by 2010; Achieve LEED certification for all new company-operated stores worldwide by late 2010; " ...

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One easy way to save energy and money is to turn off the lights when no one is around.  Older buildings often have lighting that can only control half or a quarter of a building's floor.  That is why so often you see all the lights on in a large section of an office building at night ... one person working and all the lights on.

Lightolier's iGEN is one way to fix this problem ..." ..flexible lighting control solutions, whether you are connecting a few luminaires in a private office or hundreds in a building-wide system. ...building owners and architects seek effective digital lighting technology for intelligent buildings and green building design... iGEN delivers the means and the materials for sustainable, cost-efficient lighting practices ..."

Via:  iGEN / Lightolier  LINK

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Wired Magazine has created their Smart Home  .. which is Green + Wired.  The design uses green materials and techniques along with tools to allow you to be GREEN with energy.

" ... high-design demonstration homes ... technologies we present aren't stuck in beta, but are available now. Trends driving the developments? Environmentally smart architecture, affordable automation systems, and real-time energy monitoring."

" ... use prefab construction ... automation systems we use are affordable, and upgradeable ... same access to energy data as the latest car dashboards, showing daily and weekly electricity and water consumption, as well as up-to-the-minute electricity pricing to help homeowners make smart decisions."

The Wired Home is open from March 19th, 2009 through January 3red, 2010.  If you are in Chicago and want to tour the home ... CLICK FOR DETAILS.

Via:  Wired  Link

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Green living options are increasing in the Manayunk section of Philadelphia.  Manayunk is accessible to the R6 regional rail line to center city and is a very walkable village ...

Sheldon Crossing is a new Platinum LEED (to be certified) development ...

" ...16-unit carriage home development in Manayunk, PA, ... to meet and surpass green standards, which will earn us a LEED (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design) Platinum level of certification. As we are redefining eco-conscious living, we have not lost sight of the importance of design. ..."

" ... less energy and resources consumed ... will result in significant savings for the homeowner as utility bills dwindle. ... Sheldon Crossing homes will use less energy, water, and natural resources. They create less waste, have less exposure to mold, mildew and other indoor toxins. ... features to highlight are PV solar panels, green roofs, Icynene insulation, high efficiency heaters, WaterSense plumbing fixtures, water purification, heat recovery ventilators, smart home technology, Energy Star appliances, windows and doors and much more. ..."

Via:  SheldonCrossing  LINK

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One possible way to save energy is to paint your roof white ... or some other light color.  This would keep buildings cooler and lessen the need for air conditioning.  Same for roads and other dark surfaces ... which would reflect heat back into space instead of warming the earth.  Concrete could be used instead of painting road a lighter color ...

" ... solution to climate change could be as simple as a big bucket of whitewash, ... Steven Chu believes that painting the world's roofs, roads and pavements white would keep buildings cooler as temperatures rise and cut the need for air conditioning."

"... the U.S. Secretary of Energy and a Nobel prize-winning scientist, said the low-tech solution would be as effective at reducing global warming as taking all the world's cars off the road for 11 years."

Via:  DailyMail  LINK

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... "The pavement surrounding the building is porous and will absorb almost all storm runoff. Waterless composting toilets will eliminate a major use of water and enable the collecting of waste that will be used as fertilizer for the surrounding grass. A 17-kilowatt photovoltaic system will power the facility. " ...

Continue reading "Net-Zero Green Building" »

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Taiwan has built a solar powered stadium that can generate 100% of it's powder needs and can send power to the grid when the stadium is not hosting an event.

" ... solar-powered stadium that can generate 100% of its electricity from the sun. ... can hold 50,000 spectators and is made with over 8,000 solar panels."

"...will officially open in July for the 2009 World Games. ... ntegrates many other sustainable features such as permeable paving and maximum use of domestic materials and local labor." 

" .... [when] not being used, the government plans to feed surplus energy into the local grid, where it will meet approximately 80% of the neighboring area's demand. This equates to approximately 660 tons of carbon dioxide per year! "

Via:  WholeTravel blog LINK

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One of the easiest ways to make you home more energy efficient ... and save on your heating and cooling bills is to insulate to the proper levels.  A poorly insulated (or not insulated) house is just letting your heat or air conditioning pass through the house.  

Recommended minimums for walls and ceilings are based on your geographic location ... LINK to see the appropriate R-Values for your location.

" .. high-efficiency thermal insulation and effective R-value. ... Reduce nuisance noise when used in walls. ... made from 85% recycled paper fiber. ... Support energy conservation programs focused on environmental responsibility."

" ... forms a monolithic blanket of protection—blocking air infiltration and convection currents that are both primary causes of energy loss. ... ... remains consistent through a greater temperature and application range than that of loose-fill fiberglass, ... can increase a wall's fire resistance by 22-57%. ..."

Via:  greenfiber  LINK

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The former Strawbridge and Clothier flagship department store in Philadelphia is being remodeled in a green way.  PA. REIT has posted window signs and made green dioramas in the store's street side display cases (most of the building has been closed for some time).

" ... bring together 16 state agencies in a former retail space, a 13-story historic building on Market Street, bringing renovations and modernizations throughout the space. ... the arrival of the state agencies will bring 750. employees to the Market East section of Center City, as the state consolidates agencies ... PREIT, which controls everything from the sub-basement to the sixth floor, will renovate vacant space to make room for retail on the first, second and third floors, while maintaining the historical aspects of the building and complying with LEED silver certification requirements."

Photos to follow ...

Posted by Green Dude at 05:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBacks (0)

eBay has many green aspects to its business model ... including the basic eBay design - helping people sell unneeded / unused stuff ...

They are also greening their campus by making the most of available sunlight, using a smart irrigation system, recycling / using recycled materials, using SOLAR and designing for and achieving LEED ...  ... 

" ... newest building, in San Jose, California, was designed and built to the  ... (LEED) Gold standard."

" ... automatic dimming system detects the amount of natural light ... and adjusts the electric light accordingly, resulting in an estimated 39% energy savings.... Recycled materials are used throughout, including 95% recycled structural steel, 38% recycled carpet tiles and 100% recycled workstation fabric. ... smart irrigation system ...  monitors weather conditions, including forecasts, dewpoint and relative humidity levels to determine the optimal and most efficient irrigation pattern."

" ... a 650 kW solar installation at our San Jose North location ...  3,248 panels cover more than a football field of roof space and will take up to 18% of our energy demand at that campus off the grid completely."

Via:  ebay  Link

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... "Located on the 110-acre campus of SAP North America and adjacent to its existing LEED-certified building, the new building features a floor-to-ceiling glass exterior and an open-space plan that takes maximum advantage of daylight. The green grass roofs, the use of native and regional vegetation species in landscaping and the maintenance of extensive open space highlight SAP's goal of integrating the building with the surrounding natural environment. The new building also incorporates numerous innovative features to reduce water use. Rainwater from the green roof and other areas is collected in a 50,000-gallon cistern, which supplies water for landscape irrigation and the flushing of toilets in some of the building's bathrooms. Additionally, low-flow bathroom fixtures will greatly reduce water usage, with an expected saving of over one million gallons of water per year. Energy-efficient features abound in the building. Geothermal wells use the constant ground temperature of the earth to both heat and cool areas of the building. Lighting systems based on the concept of daylight harvesting are controlled by sensors that dim the lighting levels and raise or lower window shades based on the level of sunlight coming through the triple-glazed glass exterior wall. A hybrid air conditioning system produces ice during the overnight hours when energy demands and electric rates are lowest, with the chilled water from the melting ice used to cool the building during the heat of the day. " ...