Nike collects and recycles old sneakers. You can drop sneakers off at Nike Stores (LINK to find one near you). The sneakers are separated into 3 components … sole, foam and fabric. The soles are used to make tracks surfaces.
See video for more information on the process.
Via: Nike LINK
Cascades’ Moka brand reduces the environmental impact “of its raw material by 25% and greenhouse gas emissions by 30% compared to our greenest white bathroom tissue also made from 100% recycled fiber.”
Made from “ … 100% unbleached recycled fiber, is the most environmentally responsible choice on the market.”
For consumers looking to reduce their environmental footprint this product may be the way to go.
Via: Cascades LINK
Exelon is repurposing a brownfield site in the Chicago area into a solar farm. The 41 acre site have 32,292 solar panels and generates 14,000 mWatt-hrs yearly.
“ … uses SunPower® solar tracking systems that tilt the panels toward the sun as it moves across the sky, increasing energy production by up to 25%.”
The energy generated by the solar panels offsets “ … more than 30 million pounds of greenhouse gas emissions per year …”
Exelon also remediated the site which had been vacant for more than 30 years.
Via: Excelon LINK
Drexel University is deploying Viridity Energy’s VPower System™ to provide a real time view of power usage. By better understanding real time usage and real time pricing they can buy power when costs are low / lower sand sell back when power is more expensive. This is smart grid technology.
Drexel hopes to show how they can “ … manage its energy costs and environmental impact … will allow the University to purchase power at times of the day when demand is low and sell excess power back to the larger power grid.”
Drexel will look at how organizations can balance solar, wind and energy storage to save money and even become less impacted by grid disturbances / outages.
PECO, the local electricity generator, is working with Drexel to see how this might be applied more broadly across the region.
Via: Drexel University LINK
PSE&G is using the thermal energy from a sewage plant in Camden, NJ to help heat the facility. The system is closed loop – meaning the sewage does not enter the building – but the heat energy is extracted and used to offset the need for electric to heat the facility.
The “ … $1.3 million project … is one of 18 funded by PSE&G toward meeting a state requirement that utilities invest in improving energy efficiency …”
“ … project is believed to be the first of its kind in the United State …”
The waste heat system is expected to save “ … $80,000 a year on electricity bills, about a quarter of its heating costs.”
In addition to the energy / electric savings there is a positive environmental impact.
Via: Philly.com LINK
In 2008 California passed legislation that requires “packing peanuts” to contain recycled material – starting with 80% by 2014 and going to 100% by 2017.
The law, AB 3025, was passed as traditional “packing peanuts“ are “ … difficult to recycle and piling up in the landfills, California environmentalists point to its impact on their coastline.”
Additionally “ … particularly dangerous because it is light and easily airborne, so it can be quickly transported by wind and rain into the marine environment …”
Bare® products, by Solo®., are made with recycled content, and are recyclable o compostable. Products lines are available for commercial or consumers and are both paper based (compostable) or plastic based (recyclable).
Solo is “ … actively involved in developing large-scale applications to make foodservice in public venues greener. … partnership with The Chicago Cubs is a great example!”
See the Real Fans Recycle” video >>> LINK
Via: Solo Cup LINK
Longwood Garden’s casual dining spot, the Terrace, has achieved “Certified Green Restaurant® [from] … the Green Restaurant Association (GRA)”
I recently had dinner there (it had been a ling time since I had been there) and noticed that they replaced the china type pales and bowls with plastic and compostable tablewear.
My first reaction was “more junk for the landfill”. I then noticed that the table busing area had containers for:
- recyclables (plastics marked #1 or #2)
- compostables (foods)
- trash (all the rest)
The Green Restaurant Association’s mission “ … creating an ecologically sustainable restaurant industry, and … to make the process as simple and effective as possible. “
Certification includes meeting certain criteria areas including … Water Efficiency, Waste Reduction and Recycling, and Sustainable Furnishings (and more).
Via: Longwood Gardens LINK and Green Restaurant Association LINK
Plugless Power and Sears have partnered to offer installation of wireless (hence the name Plugless) EV car chargers for homeowners. “Aftermarket installations are available now for … Nissan Leaf or Chevrolet Volt electric vehicles, with retrofits for other electric vehicle makes and models coming soon.”
Plugless charging greatly simplifies EV car charging … see video below … the car is driven to the charging “pod” on the garage floor and there is no plug needed!
Sears will install and provide ongoing support services and maintenance. Sears will also provide these services commercial fleets.
“Sears installation network technicians will be trained and certified on the wireless charging systems … ”
See
Via: Plugless Power™ LINK
South African mining company AngloAmerican is using a waste product of coal mining to make bricks for homes. Gypsum a by-product, is mixed with cement to make “ …‘low cement’ bricks for housing in the city of eMalahleni.”
Operations recover about 200 tons / day of gypsum and at a rate of about 8 tons / house can be used to make close to 25 homes / day.
Estimates are that the low cement reduce 3 metric tons for each house build compared to houses made from traditional bricks.
See this CNN video for more information.
Via: SmartPlanet LINK
Happy New Year … as the Christmas Trees start to come down consider RECYCLIN
G / MULCHING / COMPOSTING rather than landfilling your tree.
Check out their Treecycling Guide …
Check for locations to recycle your tree at Earth911. Follow the link and enter “Christmas tree” and your ZIP code in the search boxes for locations near you.
Via: Earth911.org LINK
Some Home Depot stores in Texas and the western US will carry Southwest Windpower’s Skystream 3.7 home sized wind turbines. This makes wind power – 100 % renewable energy – readily available to consumers.
The Skystream 3.7 is connected to the local power grid and ” … has a built in inverter, and produces up to 400 kWh of clean electricity per month … (assuming a 12 mph average annual wind speed). …”
Click here to see the Skystream turbine features.
This video gives more details ….
Via: Southwest Windpower LINK
Green Planet bottles are 100% made w/o petroleum – 100% from plant based materials.
“ … bottles … that outperforms other biopolymer bottles … a bottle that can be reused as well as biodegradable in a commercial compost in under 85 days.”
The bottles are:
- free from BPA
- recyclable
- reusable when washed by hand
This bottle reduces reliance on petroleum products and since it is compostable can reduce landfill space … as well as just be recycled
It looks like a good deal for the planet ….
Via: Green Planet LINK
Data centers use a lot of energy to power servers and in doing so generate a lot of heat. Additional energy is then needed to keep the servers and other equipment from overheating (air conditioning or chiller systems). Could the heat from servers be repurposed instead of cooled ?
According to a research paper (link below) “ … “data furnaces” could offer a lower carbon footprint … [in] home offices or office buildings. … servers could … become a primary heating system for these buildings …”
There are obstacle to overcome but in theory it seems to make sense.
What do you think ? Will there ever be a server farm in your apartment building / complex or office tower?
>>> To read the Microsoft research paper LINK
>>> Fujitsu is using a similar concept for heat reuse – using it to drive data center cooling systems LINK
Via: ZDNet LINK
Cornell professor Francis Moon (photo) has done some research on generating wind power wit
hout turbine blades.
The research looks at “ … vibro-wind power: harvesting en
ergy from the wind as it flows around commercial and residential buildings. …”
If scalable this would might be a source of power in many large cities bringing the generation source close to the point of use. Large citie4s with multi story buildings may have more power potential with vibro-wind than solar as the roof-print dwarfs the outside surface area.
Via: Cornell University LINK
Design firm OnionWorks was selected to design new net-zero energy homes on a site in Philadelphia’s East Falls neighborhood.
Plans call for 120 + housing units and retail space with sustainability and low energy use part of the plans as well as proximity to mass transit.
“ … energy for … heating, cooling, light and home hot water will be generated on site, with green roofs and a solar panel array. … indoor bike storage … electric vehicle charging ports and spaces for Zip Cars.”
While not a sure thing plans call for construction to start in 2013 with completion in 2014.
Via: NewsWorsks LINK
Seventh Generation is known for its green products and low impact manufacturing. Their paper package for 4X detergent takes this to a new level.
Seventh Generation has developed a paper container for its 4x detergent. Made from “… 100% recycled fiber. The entire packaging system (fiber bottle, pouch, spout, cap) system uses 66% less plastic than a typical 100 oz 2X laundry bottle …”
A plastic pouch / liner provides a barrier for the detergent and allows the paper to still be fully recyclable.
For those wishing to minimize their environmental and carbon footprint this may be the way to go and make a positive impact.
Via: Seventh Generation LINK
Energy Hub’s Energy Management System lets you understand and manage your home’s energy usage. Web and mobile phone access allow for remote viewing and control.
“ … Home Base … understand and manage the energy use from your major and smaller appliances—down to the last cell phone charger. …”
“… one-touch modes like “At Home,” “Goodnight” and “Away” let you control your home… “
Watch the video below for more information.
Via: Energy Hub LINK
The nest self learning programmable thermostat solves an interesting problem. Programmable thermostats should be able to save lots of energy – but they are difficult to program. Thermostats no longer have the energy star rating as the energy savings did not materialize …. 
>>> nest programs itself around they way you live … analyzing when you adjusts the thermostat and using sensors to see if there are people in the house so it can determine when to lower the thermostat
“10% of all U.S. energy is controlled by thermostats. That’s the equivalent of 1.7 billion barrels of oil per year.” … so there is a lot of money and energy at stake …
The YouTube video gives more information …
Via: nest LINK
Creating solar panels takes lots of energy and time in a furnace. A new “Optical Cavity” furnace developed by the NREL can create more efficient solar cells.
“ … Optical Cavity Furnace … uses optics to heat and purify solar cells at unmatched precision while sharply boosting the cells' efficiency.”
“ … can … maximize efficiency while minimizing heating and cooling costs.”
The end result is more efficient solar panels.
Via: National Renewable Energy Laboratory LINK
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
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
Infineon Raceway has a number of green indicatives underway including solar power (over 1,600 panels), recycling and using sheep to cut the grass instead of gas powered equipment.
“Since 2004 … has recycled more than 141 tons (282,541 pounds) of materials … “ including 14,000 tires.
“ … partnership with Panasonic Corporation [on a] … major solar installation that accounts for 41-percent of the raceway’s overall energy usage …”
The video below gives more details on the sustainability efforts at Infineon Raceway.
The statistics on waster are amazing … “Less than 10% of plastic trash is recycled … because of the massively complicated problem of finding and sorting the different kinds. …”
Mike Biddle has developed a solution to change that “ … developed a patented 30-step plastics recycling system … that takes less than a tenth of the energy required to make virgin plastic from crude oil. …” The process is sustainable, uses waste streams as a raw material, helps eliminate waste and reduces CO2 emissions … instead of oil.
See the fascinating TED video for details …on an efficient plant that can, and does, recycle any kind of plastic.
Via: TED LINK
The King of Prussia Mall, in King of Prussia PA is getting EV charging statins.
The first 2 in front of Nordstrom and are expected to be available for use in October. Two more are to follow in front of Bloomingdales.
“ … chargers will be installed and operated by 350Green, an electric vehicle service provider … initially will be free … will partially charge customers' vehicles in 60 to 120 minutes.”
The King of Prussia Mall is owned by Simon Properties Group – they have installed EV charges at some of their other malls.
Via: PhillyBurbs.com LINK
I found this interesting guide to building a green roof. I have not tried it (I do not have a flat roof) but it seems do-able.
Green roofs can make your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter and can control water runoff. 
Here is what a green roof might look like in cross section.
Via: Instructables LINK
Canon Canon supports sustainability … from using bio-plastics to remanufacturing products … They also support inkjet and toner cartridge recycling.
“ … first in the printing industry to create a toner cartridge recycling program. … toner cartridges are 100% recovered with zero landfill waste.”
“ … offers a collection and recycling program for … plastic toner containers. … “
“ … strives to attain 65% recyclability and 75% recoverability for its products, as stipulated by the EU Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive …”
Via: Canon LINK
The University of Delaware is working on technology to enable EV owners use their cars batteries as storage / stabilizing capacity for the grid.
The University of Delaware is working with NRG Energy and eV2 on this project. EVs may be able to provide power to the grid to cover peak needs and serve as significant storage capacity for smoothing out peak needs.
“ … resulting in cost savings to electric vehicle fleet operators and eventually other electric vehicle owners and consumers, … “
The technology works while the EV is plugged in to the charging system … and instead of drawing power would send power to the grid.
“ … allow electric vehicle owners to sell battery storage back to the electric grid … at no risk or inconvenience to daily driving needs. “
Via: University of Delaware LINK
Duane Reade – the NYC drugstore chain - is the 1st US Retail Pharmacy to use EVs. The trucks, Newton models from Smith Electric Vehicles - “ … can travel up to 100 miles on a single overnight charge. … operating costs over one year are one-third to one-half those for a conventional diesel vehicle … Newton also uses regenerative braking … [to] charge to the truck’s battery …”
“ … is part of an extensive Duane Reade initiative to cut energy consumption. …” which includes LED lighting to reduce lighting costs and cooling costs.
Via: SmartPlanet LINK
Temple University and Sodexo launched (Sept. 19th) the Waste Not Project. The program has multiple goals including portion control and nutrition.
One big goal is REDUCING FOOOD WASTE.
At dinner time – for a week starting Sept. 20 – uneaten food is weighed and recorded. “ … raise awareness … conscious about what they’re … throwing away …”
“ … conceived in conjunction with Temple’s the Office of Sustainability. … working with Waste Management to deposit leftover food from the dining hall into 64-gallon compost totes. “
Via: Temple University LINK
Call2Recycle® partners with various organizations to collect and recycle cell phones and batteries. Organizations can collect either internally (staff and members) or externally as well (community).
Sites (schools, townships, retailers, etc) collect cell phones and and batteries and then ship them (shipping is prepaid) for sorting and recycling. “ … None of the … material makes its way into landfills. Since Call2Recycle was created in 1994, 60 million pounds has been diverted from landfills.”
For a simplified overview of the recycling / recovery process …. LINK
So far this year they have recycled … “5,132,062 pounds of batteries”
Via: Call2Recycle LINK
Many communities recycle glass, aluminum and paper … maybe even some plastics.
What about old appliances ? In addition to containing easy to recycle metals some appliance also contain harmful refrigerants. 9 million (+ / –) refrigerators are thrown out each year in the U.S. and most are shredded to reclaim the metal … the foam and other materials go to a landfill and may release GHG to the atmosphere.
GE and Home Depot have a different approach that keeps an additional 47 lbs of a typical refrigerator out of landfills (resulting in 102 lbs not sent to landfill per refrigerator).
With Responsible Appliance Disposal a refrigerator’s refrigerant is safely removed and recycled / processed. Then any GHG from foam insulation is safely processed and the remaining material is separated for recycling.
“ … Refrigerants and recoverable components are removed … will reduce the weight of typical refrigerator landfill waste by approximately 85%.”
“ … Approximately 95% of the insulating foam is recovered, compressed and can be used as fuel”.
Many Home Depot locations will take the appliances for recycling. For locations see links below …
Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia Maryland Massachusetts
New Jersey New York North Carolina Pennsylvania Rhode Island
Vermont Virginia West Virginia
Via: GE LINK
A lot of people compost things like grass clippings and leaves. Some even compost kitchen scraps like coffee grinds, egg shells and vegetable scraps.
Soon you may be able to toss other non-typical items in the compost bin – see this video for what tomorrow might bring to the compost bin.
Via: ZDNet LINK
PrintEco saves paper when printing web pages. Using software to determine how to eliminate wasted space PrintEco can show you how many pages and pounds of CO2 were saved by “reformatting” a web page.
Saving paper can save money, reduce waste, save printer toner and reduce your carbon footprint.
“ … track the financial and environmental impact of your printing habits through our web-based dashboard, PrintEco Analytics.”
See video below for details showing a web page before and after PrintEco …
Via: PrintEco LINK
If you are looking to by an EV – electric vehicle – you can use EV Profiles to see how far you can drive b y using your current driving habits to model what you might expect with an EV.
. EV Profiler “ … evaluates your driving conditions as they are today, in your existing car, and predicts your battery needs for the same travel in different models of electric vehicles. …”
EV Profiler uses a sensor called a DDR – digital data recorder. After a week of typcial driving it can predict “ … your electric vehicle battery needs from your … real world driving.”
Via: EV Profiler LINK
GreenSwitch has an interesting solution to saving energy by making it easy to turn off all power using devices when you leave you home with a single switch.
GreenSwitch allows a single switch to turn off selected energy sapping devices while allowing other devices to work --- like clocks.
A master switch ” sends “ … wireless signal is sent to all of the GreenSwitch™ slave components (wall plugs, light switches, and thermostat) …” This allows you to turn off TVs, printers, and other devices on standby mode at once easily and just as easily turn them baco on …
See the video with Ed Begley describing GreenSwitch …
Via: GreenSwitch LINK
ecoATM wants to make electronics recycling easy and convenient.
ecoATM created a self serve Kiosk that takes your used electronics and gives you cash or store credit.
The kiosk “ … patented, advanced machine vision, electronic diagnostics, and artificial intelligence to evaluate and buy-back used electronics directly from consumers for cash or store credit. …”
Watch this video to see how easy the process is for the user …
Currently (Sept 2011) there is a cluster of ecoATM locations on the west coast stretching from just north of Los Angeles to just south of San Diego and two others – one in Kansas City, Kansas and one in Redmond, Washington.
Via: ecoATM LINK
Greenfest Philly helps people learn how they can become more sustainable. The event provides educational opportunities and resources to help people live green.
“ … showcases scores of exhibitors, providing a wealth of information and useful green products. … wishes to impart that being green is something we can all do.”
Greenfest Philly 2001 is coming soon – Saturday, September 10, 2011 and is at Headhouse Square (along 2nd St. between South St. and Pine St.) in Philadelphia, PA.
There are a number of “Green” vendors; check this link for full details and free electronics recycling from E Waste Experts; check their website for full details.
Via: GreenFest Philly LINK
Wondering if you can make a flex fuel or EV work for you? Check out this US DOE app that tells you what alternative fuel sources are close to a given ZIP Code.
Near me – ZIP Code 19087 there are a few Compressed Natural Gas, Liquid Petroleum Gas, Ethanol, and Biodiesel stations.
Enter your ZIP Code by clicking the upside down triangle just to the right of the ENERGY.GOV logo (see screen shot above).
Clicking on the colored dots brings up a map (MAPQUEST) with enough info to find the fuel stop.
Note the large number of EV “Stations” near NYC.
Via: US DOE LINK
GreenSmart makes bags from rPET – recycled PET (Polyethylene terephthalate). All their “GreenSmart Bottles 2 Bags” come from …” certified 100% post-consumer recycled PET water and soda bottles.”
“ … primary objective with every product and material we make or use is eco-progress … is no eco-perfect and we are not perfect either, yet we plan to continue to improve.”
Check you this video from Act2 / GreenSmart to learn how PET plastic bottles are recycled and turned into fabric or other plastic items.
Via: GreenSmart LINK
With Suntrica’s SolarStrap™ you never have to worry about runnning out of batteries for your small electronic devices.
Suntrica’s SolarStrap™ combines a solar panel with an integrated battery pack to store power for charging small electronics such as cell phones, mp3 players and is “ … compatible with most … devices utilizing 5 V charging voltage”
“SolarStrap™ is… designed specifically for harsh outdoor use. … responce to the … charging challenge in developing markets having limited access to electricity. “
Via: Suntrica Ltd. LINK
Ford and SunPower have a program where customers of the Ford Focus Electric car are offered the opting to purchase solar PV system that would generate free and clean energy to offset the grid power used to charge the car.
The system can generate ….” an average of 3,000 kilowatt hours of electricity annually. … sized to accommodate … about 1,000 miles per month.
The price of the solar system is approx. $10,000 after incentives and rebates.
Via: Ford LINK
The US DOE is sponsoring the 2011 Solar Decathlon – where 20 colleges and universities bring houses they designed and built to DC to compete in an “energy-off”.
The winner will be determined by the team that “ … best blends affordability, consumer appeal, and design excellence with optimal energy production and maximum efficiency.”
Houses should be …. “affordable, attractive …” and provide a healthy / comfortable living space and ideally generate more energy that it uses from wind and / or solar systems
Check it out if you are going to be in or near DC … and look for teams from around the world as well as the US.
Via: US DOE LINK
GE and Lowes are partnering to offer customers GE’s wall mounted EV car chargers.
GE’s WattStation “ … will help transform the future of personal transportation, making an electric vehicle easily adaptable for everyday use.”"
The GE WattStation will be offered in California in August 2011 starting with 5 stores and expanding to 60 by September and also available by web in September @ LOWES.com.
Via: GE LINK
DuPont has bought innovaLight.
“Innovalight has developed … patented technologies and materials that allow crystalline silicon cell manufacturers to produce solar cells with higher conversion efficiencies. “
innovaLights goal was to help manufacturers of solar cells improve the performance(higher conversion rates) of the solar cells and reduce the manufactured cost.
Via: innovaLight LINK
Government procurement of electronics can be influenced to greener decisions with greater awareness during the purchasing process. To build awareness, the GSA will implement training in green purchasing. …
… “GSA will work with OMB to expand the use of green purchasing training by Federal employees involved in electronics purchasing, including procurement professionals, purchase card holders, information technology professionals, and other procurement request originators, so they are aware of the requirements and benefits of purchasing green electronics.” …
Via General Services Administration: Strategy for Electronics Stewardship (PDF).
Ditto's goal " ... is to elevate your customer’s perception of your core brand, enriching the consumer experience through smart, ecological design."
One of their products is an Environmentally Friendly Hanger made of paper. Retailers can use these in place of wire or plastic hangers and make a statement about their support of the environment and sustainability.
Ditto hangers are reusable and recyclable ...
Hangers are everywhere in the clothing business ... according to Ditto's website an estimated 8 BILLION hangers are landfilled each year ... companies using Ditto paper hangers can have a very positive impact on that number!
I saw Ditto paper hangers in a display window at a GAP in Ardmore, PA.
Via: DITTO Brand Solutions LINK
Consultancy KPMG is committed to being green. With their Living Green program they have made significant progress in key areas such as reducing carbon footprint and waste between 2007 and 2010.
Notable achievements include " ...reduce ... carbon footprint by 25 percent... reduce waste by 10 percent ... Achieve ... (LEED) certification with 100 percent of new construction ..."Increase alternative transportation by 5 percent
Via: KPMG LINK
Arizona State University wants to be "Net Zero Carbon" by 2025.
It will achieve this status by " ... balancing a measured amount of carbon released with an equivalent amount of renewable energy or offsetting by planting trees ..."
Check out Arixzona State University's Carbon Neutrality Action Plan which gives details for reaching Net Zero Carbon.
Via: Arizona State University LINK
Fracking (hydraulic fracturing for oil in shale formations) is a contentious subject. But the demand for energy - including natural gas in shale formations is rising.
Researchers from Penn State has found a way to use waste from industry in place of sand. Currently sand for fracking comes from mines in the mid-west.
The "new material" called PennProd would replace sand
(lowering the carbon footprint of bringing in a non local raw material) and help eliminate industrial waste.
This process would treat industrial waste and use it in the fracking solution ... eliminating waste that would otherwise have to be landfilled. Since a typical Marcellus Shale well would take 25 rail-cars or 5 million lbs of sand this eliminates a good amount of industrial waste.
PennProd is "...engineered to use waste from metabasalt mines. Heated to 3,000 degrees, the metabasalt forms into molten obsidian spheres. The glassy pellets are then heat-tempered into a hardened ceramic."
Via: Bellingham Herald LINK
EV Connect, provider of EV charging solutions and Fisker Automotive, maker of EV cars are partnering to bring the EV infrastructure to Fisker owners.
" ... EV Connect will install and service electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) for Kar
ma owners and 47 Fisker dealerships throughout the United States and Canada, ..."
EVConnect will start the process of installing a EVConnect charger for Fisker buyers ... at home or at work. EV Connect is also will be " ... the turnkey infrastructure solution for Karma, ..." handling the logistics and permitting and being the point of contact for the EVSE - including maintenance of the charging equipment..
Via: Fisker Automotive LINK
Airbus along with major European Airlines and producers are crating an initive called the ‘Biofuel Flightpath’.
The goal is to bring 2 million tonnes of biofuels to the European market by the year 2020.
" ... create the first industrial venture ever introducing sustainable biofuels for commercially competitive operations. ..."
Via: European Commission SETIS LINK
Dow Chemical Company is working with Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide to produce PHEV (plug-in electric hybrids). This is a natural "fit" for Dow as they have a JV with Kokam to produce batteries for hybrids.
The program converts Ford's F-150 to ..." PHEV trucks powered by Dow Kokam lithium ion battery technology, which delivers the energy and power balance required for these vehicles."
" ... create and deploy the first PHEV trucks – using leading battery technology ..."
Plans call for the first trucks to be available in December 2011 ... with more than 100 PHEV trucks at Dow by 2012.
Via: Dow Chemical Company LINK
An Arizona State University student has 
a novel design to mount HORIZONTAL wind turbines on overhead highway signposts. By modifying the existing signposts they can be become wind energy sources. See mocked up picture at RIGHT >>>
" ... estimates ... on the highways outside of Phoenix, ... each turbine would produce enough energy annually to power a 700-square-foot apartment. ..."
The idea is that the breeze from the moving cars and the wind can generate "free energy" for the grid - and not require any additional energy use by cars and trucks. In Arizona many of the highways have a 70 mph speed limit.
Carol Dollard is recognized for her achievements in sustainability at the Colorado State University. The Northern Colorado Renewable Energy Society will present her with an
award for individual achievement. She has had a hand in may of the University’s green initiatives. …
… “Dollard is often the university’s go-to expert on energy-saving techniques. Since 2008, she has led the university’s participation in the American College & University President’s Climate Commitment, which requires universities to measure greenhouse gas emissions. The inventory also helps members of the university community understand their impact on the environment, Dollard has said. She also oversaw the construction of two phases of the 5.3-megawatt solar plant, which is one of the largest at a U.S. university.” …
Via Colorado State University: Renewable Energy Recognition.
The Dow Chemical Company announced it has completed construction of a plant that makes epoxy for wind turbine blades.
The facility is in Roberta, Ga and is expected to be fully on line July 1, 2011. Material is for both the US and export markets.
"“Epoxy adhesives play a critical role in the fabrication, performance and durability of wind turbine blades ... toughness and durability to withstand the extreme loads a wind turbine blade is subjected to throughout its service life.” "
Via: Plastic News Link
General Electric's new FlexEfficiency power plants are designed to work well with renewable power sources.
Renewable renewable energy generation can be intermittent as it is dependent on wind or sun and can require augmentation quickly. The FlexEfficiency makes use of technology that let's it run at rates as low as 87% and still be 61 % efficient. 
The technology includes simplified design, construction and waste heat recovery.
The plant is fast starting, highly automated, highly efficient and a range of loads and low in emissions
" ... uses an integrated approach to reduce fuel costs, create additional revenue sources, improve dispatch capability and reduce carbon emissions compared to prior technologies."
See the video at LINK that provides more information.
Via: General Electric LINK
EvoLucia Aimed LED Lighting is not only more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than other light sources, it is also much more effective. Through our patented Aimed Optics™ technology, we have demonstrated that less overall light is needed if the light is correctly focused on the target area, which allows for more efficient lighting solutions. We have identified an immediate opportunity, particularly in the outdoor lighting market, to supply high quality energy-efficient lighting solutions through this patented technology. We continue to develop and refine our products to serve the market and are actively pursuing alliances that will allow us to drive down the cost of producing our “Aimed LED Lighting” products.
Simply put, “aimed LED lighting” is the method of providing exactly the light that’s needed, where it’s needed. Through our patent-pending Aimed Optics™ technology, EvoLucia optimizes utilization of LEDs to put the most foot-candles on the ground, in the pattern required, with the best uniformity, using the fewest LEDs and the least power consumed.
While traditional luminaires are utilize one single, omni-directional light source per fixture, such as a metal-halide light bulb, EvoLucia’s Aimed Optics™ lighting technology platform uses multiple LEDs. A reflector directs the light in the desired pattern and provides the requisite number of foot-candles exactly where they’re needed.
It is both cost advantageous and energy-efficient to minimize the number of LEDs used to achieve the required number and uniformity of foot-candles in the pattern desired. In order to do this, each LED (or small group of LEDs) must be aimed and focused optimally. The method for doing this is the basis for the Aimed Optics platform.
Via: EvoLucia Lighting LINK
Research Frontiers, Inc's SPD technology uses suspended particles in glass to react to a small voltage to change from clear to nearly blocked. With voltage is applied the glass is clear.
This would allow for large glass windows for light and letting the same windows block direct sun to reduce A/C load and reduce UV damage to fabrics.
' ...provides exceptional control over solar energy..."
" ... ability of architectural smart glass to improve the energy efficiency of buildings by effectively controlling solar heat gain and harvesting daylight ..."
Via: Research Frontiers, Inc. LINK and LINK
The Dow Chemical Company and Cobblestone Homes have collaborated on a second highly energy efficient home. This one is at 5018 Butterfield Dr. in Midland, Michigan - home to Dow.
The home was build for approx. the price of the average new home in the U.S. - $250,000 - bring
ing energy efficiency closer to the mass market.
The home is called “InVision Zero” and is expected to " ... to save $2,441 in energy costs and avert 30,233 pounds of CO2 annually ...". These figures are achieved using a number of Dow technologies and products resulting in a very "tight" home that is free of drafts (and the resulting heat / cooling losses).
The h
ome has a DOE HERS (House energy rating) value of -4. Energy Star Homes have a rating of about 85 and Net Zero homes rate a 0. This home is very energy efficient.
Via: Dow Building Solutions LINK
United has a green sustainability program called eco-skies. Among the highlights of the program are ...
... over 300 planes with winglets that reduce emissions by up to 5% ... 3600+ service vehicles that are either electric or alternative fueled ... recycling over 3 millions lbs plastic and aluminum from flight service over a 5 year period ...
"First U.S. biofuel and synthetic fuel demonstration flights and signed letters of intent to advance cost-efficient and environmentally responsible alternative jet fuels derived from biomass feedstock ..."
Via: United LINK
ASU professors bring together multiple disciplines, life sciences and design, to integrate nature
into the development of new products. The principles of bio-mimicry are explored to understand if more sustainable strategies are possible in product design. …
… “Class projects, tackled by trans-disciplinary teams of designers and biologists, considered how nature could inspire solutions for problems such as
- reducing water consumption,
- mitigating urban heat island effect,
- regulating household temperature or
- utilizing solar radiation.” …
Via Arizona State University: Sustainable product design.
The rubber industry is looking for alternatives to petroleum based rubber as pricing for petroleum is going up fast.
Researchers at Ohio State University, The University of Akron, Oregon State University, Cooper and Bridgestone are looking to see if the Russian dandelion is a route to rubber.
"... "Russian dandelion ... is being domesticated ... and produces high-quality natural rubber in its fleshy taproot. ... performance mirrors the natural rubber produced from ... Brazilian rubber tree ... "
Via: Ohio BioProducts Innovation Center (OBIC) LINK
Certain Honda Civics have an easy way to save fuel .... by pushing the ECON button. When pushed " ... the Civic's engine and other energy-consuming systems are automatically configured to operate more efficiently..."
Better fuel economy at the push of a button !
Via: Honda LINK
Ever wonder what to do with corks after you finish that bottle of wine? How about recycling them ? Whole Foods and Cork ReHarvest has partnered to set up recycling boxes at Whole Foods MArkets.
" ... make it easy ... to properly dispose of cork at all of our 292 stores in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. ... "
Did you know that cork production is environmentally friendly as trees are not cut but t
he bark (cork) is harvested approx every 10 years from trees that can live for 300 years.
What about the environmental impact of cork recycling - the energy and cost to ship cork back for processing? The cork is returned on the same trucks that deliver so there is a close to ZERO net carbon footprint. So the cork recycling loop is close to impact free.
Depending on the location the corks are used to make floor tiles or other products.
Via: Whole Foods Market LINK
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
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
MIT scientists have found a novel way to use virus' to improve the efficiency of PV cells. The virus' " ... perform detailed assembly work at the microscopic level ... based on findings that carbon nanotubes ... can enhance the efficiency of ... solar cell's surface."
The virus' are used to " ... control the arrangement of the nanotubes ... so they can’t short out the circuits ..."
Improvements in power conversion efficiency are close to 1/3.
Via: MIT LINK
Montana State University graduating chemical engineers Chandra Macauley, Kathryn Morrissey, and Nicole Schonenbach receive National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships, which provide them $30,000 a year, plus tuition and fees, to support three years of graduate education.
These students have already pursued green chemistry and sustainability challenges in their education. …
Via Montana State University: National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowships.
Oregon has a stretch of the Corridor of the Future - at interchange of I-5 and I-205 in Oregon. Ground mounted solar panels that provide power used at the interchange.
" ... 104 kilowatt ground-mounted solar array ... supplies about one-third of the energy needed for illumination at the site.
" ... energy ... feeds into the grid during the day ... At night ... energy flows back from the grid to light the interchange. ..."
Too see the current energy stats click the LINK
Via: Oregon.gov LINK
Street sgns and utility power poles are almost everywhere. A project at The University of Nebraska is looking into ways to use wind power and solar panels on signs to power roadway lights and traffic signals. Any excess power will go into the local energy grid.
The units combine solar and wind generators and 
feature batteries for storage. " ... Each unit consists of a wind turbine generator and one or more PV panels mounted on the top of the pole for electric power generation."
" ... overall system involves power generation, storage, distribution, grid operation, and demand-side management.
Via: University of Nebraska - Lincoln LINK
Macy's is partnering with ECOtality to pilot self serve EV (electric vehicle) charging stations. " ... two electric vehicle charging stations this fall outside each of six Macy's stores in ... San Diego ..."
" ... will install ECOtality’s Blink Electric Vehicle (EV) Level 2 Commercial Pedestal Charging stations ..."
metropolitan area (locations are being identified). ..."
Ecotricity is a green UK energy supplier.
They have been bundling wind turbines and selling the electricity produced since 1996. They are also educating and raising peoples awareness of the impact they can have on the environment by choosing a lower carbon generating supplier.
Changing electric suppliers " ... takes about five minutes but it's the biggest single step you can take to reduce your emissions and protect the environment."
Click HERE to see the current stats on the UK electric grid ... power generated by (in order) fossil fuels, nuclear, and renewable energy sources as well as the Grams of Co2 / KWh.
On 4/28/2011 (Thu 28/04/11 @ 12:05 BST) the stats were:
Fossil: 72.4 %
Nuclear: 22.9 %
Renewable: 4.7 %
CO2 / KWh: 415 g CO2 / KWh
How other UK Energy Companies Compare LINK
Via: ecotricity LINK
TD Bank recently opened a call center in Auburn, Maine that is 100% powered by green energy sources. The center is designed for US LEED Gold certification.
Among the green design elements / features are " ... plumbing fixtures that use 33 percent less water, drought tolerant plants ... a recycling system that will collect paper, glass, metal, plastic, cardboard, fluorescent lamps and batteries."
For more on the green features check out the link at the bottom of this post.
TD has also committed to going carbon neutral and is one of the largest US Banks to commit to being carbon neutral.
Via: Environmental Leader LINK
Why recycle used motor oil? Two reasons are to reduce dependence on imported oil and to protect the environment Improperly disposed motor oil can cause significant damage to the environment – especially to water supplies … “ … just one gallon of used oil can contaminate up to one million gallons of water ….”
“ … motor oil doesn't really wear out … it's the additives that wear out …”
Check out this video to see the engine oil life cycle and what happens to oil as it is reprocessed “from oil pan to oil can”.
Via: Valvoline LINK
San Francisco's new Terminal 2 was retrofitted to be green by design. It is the first Airport Terminal in the US to achieve GOLD LEED.
Among the green features in the design were waste reduction (achieved by reusing or recycling all construction waste), reduced water use (achieved by a closed loop reclaimed water system for the toilets and urinals that is treated on site) and Greenhouse Gas - GHG - reductions (achieved by eliminating the need for airplane auxiliary power units by providing preconditioned air and power at the gate).
Via: SFO LINK
Starbucks is celebrating EARTH DAY by giving a free cup of coffee if you skip the paper cup .... either bring in your own refillable cup or ask for your coffee in a "for-here" cup. Either way it is free. Last year Starbucks had 1.2 million participants !
" ... on Earth Day ... inviting everyone to bring in a reusable mug or tumbler and get a free brewed coffee or tea ... hot or iced ... at participating stores in the United States and Canada."
"... We recognize the impact one can make through careful, conscious choices ..."
If you do not have a reusable mug and want to buy one you can get one for 20 % off and then get 10 cents off each time you use it at Starbucks.
Here is your chance to make a positive impact on the environment on Earth Day and every day !
Via: Starbucks LINK
American University new School of International Service is expected to receive LEED-GOLD certification.
The building is designed by architect Willam McConough, ... "renown for sustainable design and his "cradle-to cradle" philosophy for recycling and reusing building materials...." .
Some of the many green and environmentally friendly features include: a 33 KW solar energy system, rainwater collection (60,000 gallons) for flushing toilets, LED lighting in the car park, rain gardens, and much more.
Read more by follwing the link below.
Via: American University LINK
Cooks can now buy carbon neutral cookware from M.E. Heuck.
M.E. Heuck partnered with FirstCarbon Solutions to get a CarbonNeutral® Certification for its ZEROCA line of cookware. The certification comes from The CarbonNeutral Company.
" ... independent assessment of the CO2 emissions produced from manufacturing and distribution followed by an offset-inclusive carbon management program. ... every metric ton of CO2 that ZEROCA produc
es is matched by an equivalent, guaranteed CO2 reduction through a carbon offset project." M.E. Heuck is the first cookware to achieve CarbonNeutral® Certification.
For more information about FirstCarbon Solutions LINK
For more information about CarbonNeutral Company LINK
Via: FirstCarbon Solutions LINK
Vestas announced their V164-7.0 - the rotor has a diameter of 164 meters and the turbine produces 7 MW of power. This huge turbine is " ... specifically designed for the roughest North Sea conditions ..."
" ... designed ... to provide the highest energy capture and the highest reliability in this rough and challenging environment."
Veatas has an installed base of 580 offshore turbines - equal to 43 % of all offshore turbines worldwide.
For a perspective on this huge turbine check out this video …
Via: VESTAS LINK
Check out the Save Some Green at 2005 Chestnut Street in Philadelphia, Pa.v
"ALL of our products are better for the environment ... Recycled, Recyclable, Biodegradable, Compostable, ... Sustainable, ... Less-wasteful, Local – or a combination."
The store fixtures are reused or made from bamboo or recycled cardboard.
" .... carry products which are reasonably priced ... "
They offer to recycle materials such as # 3 - # 7 plastics and even take food for composting !
Check out their website to learn more about what they do and what they offer LINK
Don't live in Philadelphia - see their Amazon store !
Passive homes are designed to be so energy efficient that they do not need to have normal heating and cooling systems ! There is an air exchange system that brings in fresh air but keeps the heat in the houses. This efficiency is achieved without compromising the comfort or looks.
" .... refers to a ... ultra-low energy construction standard developed over the past twenty years by the PassivHaus Institut in Germany. ..."
See video below for more about a home that Solar Knights upgraded to become a Passive Home.
Via: Solar Knights Construction LINK
and Smart Planet LINK
The other day while walking in the city I noticed an interesting large green sticker on a intercity bus. It was from the Green Coach Initiative and promoted the bus line's "support being and acting green."
What a great way to raise Green Awareness !
The University of Vermont with the American Bus Association and the United Motorcoach Association launched the Green Coach Certification Research initiative. Companies that meet the standards are able to "Wear" the appropriate certification; such as the "Green Coach Energy Reduction CERTIFIED" label below.
There are a variety of stickers such as " meeting or exceeding ... 148 passenger miles per gallon ... and ... Offsetting carbon emissions by 80 through an endorsed carbon-trading organization".
Is your bus Green Coach Certified ?
Via: University of Vermont LINK
The Seattle Mariners have joined other professional sports teams to form the Green Sports Alliance, an organization that encourages professional sports teams to be greener and make reductions in their "... impact on the environment...."
Members are " ... urged to initiate strategies that reduce energy and carbon emissions, ... encouraged to promote their greening initiatives throughout their respective leagues and surrounding communities. ..."
The Green Sports Alliance has its HQ in Portland, Oregon; founding members include teams from MLB, NFL, NHL, NBA, WNBA and MLS. For more on the Green Sports Alliance LINK.For more information on the Green Sports Alliance visit www.greensportsalliance.org.
Via: Seattle Mariners 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
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
BIC® ecolutionsTM product line is formulated to be green … from using recycled plastic for pen barrels to recycled paper for packaging to water based solutions for the Correction Aqua “white out”.
“ … perform to the same high quality that you’ve come to expect from … BIC products …”
Check out their “tips for a greener office” link …
Via: Bic Ecolutions LINK
Portland, Maine has signed a deal with Ameresco to cut its carbon footprint. The project covers approx. 15 years and is to cost $9.4 million. The city expects to save $17 million over the life of the project.
What is unique about this engagement is that there is no upfront cost to Portland. "Ameresco will guarantee ... cash flows ... will exceed the cash requirements for the project, offsetting the costs ..."
Per their website ... Ameresco "delivers ... solutions on both sides of the meter ... leverage renewable energy and achieve ... sustainability goals for our ...customers."
Part of the improvements will be a 2,000 watt solar array at one of the schools.
The agreement covers 45 city buildings and 15 schools.
Ameresco is based in Framingham, Mass.
Via: Ameresco LINK
I saw this sticker on a paper towel dispenser and wanted to know more about it. It seems this was a grass roots effort that seems to work. From their website ... " ... From our field testing, each sticker deployed saves about a tree's worth of paper (~100 lbs.) a year. Crazy, isn't it?" and saves about 29% per year in paper.
The idea is to use what you need but not more ... many folks grab lots of paper towels (same for napkins) and toss most unused into a trash can.
According to the blog site there are over 10,000 of these at Starbucks and 10,000 at McDondald. A typical coffee shop or fast food restaurant can use 1000 - 2000 lbs of paper towels a year. I saw "mine" at a local Starbucks (I ask for my coffee in a reusable ceramic mug or my reusable thermos !)
If you are looking for a way to green your office or work site consider buying a few ... !
Be Green and make a difference.
Via: These Come From Trees Blog LINK
"Joule's Helioculture™ platform combines ... sunlight and waste CO2 directly into clean, fungible diesel fuel, bypassing the limitations of biofuel production...."
" ... SolarConverter® ... scaling to desired output levels with no dependence on raw material feedstocks, agricultural land, fresh water or crops."
Joule's "platform" makes fuel from sun and CO2 w/o biomass or raw materials. Basically they have engineered organisms that take in CO2, water and sunlight and spit out bio-fuel - basically unlimited fuel.
Joule has it HQ in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Via: Joule Unlimited, Inc. LINK
" ... producing clean power at a cost that is competitive with non-renewable resources."
" ... allow Altaeros to reduce the levelized cost of offshore wind energy by 60 percent."
Via: Altaeros LINK
Sonoma Wine Company takes sustainability seriously and works to reduce the footprint of the winery operations. A cogeneration facility is a natural next step.
In this process the heat that passes through the solar cells (PV) is captured to heat water … so electricity and heat are produced from the sun.
Sonoma Wine Company and Cogena Solar have partnered to build the “ … first commercial scale solar cogeneration system to supply renewable heat and electricity …”.
When at full capacity the facility will “ … displace approximately 64,000 kilowatt-hours and 12,500 therms of natural gas annually….”
Why Solar Cogeneration? from Stephen Harper on Vimeo.
Via: Sonoma Wine Co LINK
The Dow Chemical Company and Cobblestone homes have collaborated to build Michigan's FIRST Net Zero Energy Home. The home uses techniques like "...insulation, sealants, geothermal heating and solar generation."
The home is @ 3118 Summerhill, Bay City, Michigan LINK
This home showcases some cutting edge technologies ... but all homeowners can make a positive energy impact on their homes but choosing CFL or LED for lighting, and making sure storm windows fit ... and of course using the right amount of insulation.
Via: Vision Zero Home LINK
Google Translated from German ...
The VW microbus may come back as a 6 seat all-electric called "Bulli". " ... maximum utilization of space ... driven ... by a powerful electric motor or alternatively efficient gasoline and diesel direct injection engines ..."
See picture of concept car at left ...
Via: Volkswagen LINK
at symposium scheduled for March 31, 2011 at Rutgers-Camden campus. The event
will enable collaboration of businesses, hospitals, municipalities, and universities on strategies for delivering their sustainability objectives. …
… “The comprehensive symposium will focus on the latest in regional planning, funding opportunities, and community involvement while highlighting regional cutting-edge technological advances in sustainability.
Those advances include: New Jersey’s leadership role in solar energy, wind power off the Jersey shore, electricity deregulation in Pennsylvania, and recent advances in waste management and recycling.” …
Via Rutgers University: Symposium on Sustainability.
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.
Improvements were made in the Phase 2 thermal storage system ... they found they could simplify the design ... instead of " ... interlaced structural concrete grade beams for thermal transfer .... " ... there just now just a " ....a large open concrete crawl space."Lastly each occupant is put on an energy diet of 55 watts / workstation. This goes a long way to keeping electricxity bills under control.
Follow this LINK and at the bottom of the page are details on other technologies used in the building.
Via: National Renewable Energy Laboratory LINK
Jordache Enterprises - owner of Jordache Jeans - uses solar panels at a factory in Jordan.
They are " ... among the first garment manufacturers worldwide to have installed and use solar panels to heat water ... "
A subsidiary owns the The Orchid hotel in Israel which was the first to install solar cells; these generate " ... electricity in excess of the resort’s consumption. ... hooked to the regional electric grid, selling excess capacity to the Electric Company..."
Via: Jordache LINK
Enerkem turns waste to biofuels and chemicals ..." converts residual materials, such as non-recyclable municipal solid waste, into clean transportation fuels, advanced chemicals and green electricity."
Enerkem's technology eliminates waste products and turn otherwise unusable materials into useful products.
Enerkem has 2 facilities in Canada and is developing one on Mississippi with funds from the US DOE.
CLICK to see a schematic of the process.
Via: Enerkem LINK
I saw these multi-stream recycling stations all over the Philadelphia International Airport.
In one easy to use spot you can recycle glass, cans and plastic (most commonly recycled materials). Very handy with nice appeal to help folks recycle whi
le not at home or the office. If you make it easy folks will recycle.
"Envyrozone ... believe in LOHAS, a Lifestyle of Health and Sustainability, ... a core principal that we bring to every customer relationship."
Via: Envyrozone LINK
Solar systems are becoming more popular as the cost of panels drops and their efficiencies increase. But solar systems are still EXPENSI
VE.
While solar (PV and / or hot water) can help save money the upfront cost can be enough to make this a non-practical option for many customers.
SolarCity has a program called SolarLease that " ... can make it possible for homeowners and businesses to switch to clean, solar power for less money than they currently pay for electricity."
Via: SolarCity LINK
e-waste is a growing problem. When tossed into a landfill they can cause water and soil pollution. Several Stanford University students have tackled the problem by developing a prototype laptop that is modular so it is easily “de-manufactured”. The process is fast and can facilitate recycling the constituent components.
Theoretically manufacturers could use this in “green advertising” to differentiate their product from others.
Check out this video …
Via: SmartPlanet LINK
Kigo uses CYCLEPET for some of its shoes ... CYCLEPET is made from Post Consumer PET (#1 PE).
"PET ... most important raw material in the textile industry."
Using recycled POST Consumer PET keep plastic out of landfills and reduces the need to use petroleum for new PET.
"kigo footwear uppers, lining and packaging are all crafted from recycled elements. ... CYCLEPET – plastic jugs are [turned] into strong, soft fabric. ..."
My son showed me this neat green packaging product ...
Companies are looking to reduce the environmental footprint of their packaging materials and are moving away from foamed PP and PS.
Using a green packaging material is a great differentiator and can minimize the downstream waste that is generated as part of the product life cycle.
"EcoCradle™ ... made of agricultural byproducts ... from renewable sources. ... is just as reliable, easy to use,
and affordable ..."
" ... literally grown, ... uses a filamentous fungi (mushroom roots) to bond this packaging into almost any shape. ..."
When it comes time to dispose of this packaging material you can break it into small pices and add to your garden, put it in a compost pile or even throw it in the trash where it will decompose EVEN WITHOUT oxygen !
Use EcoSquid to find a new home for your old electronics.
In a few minutes you can either find where to safely recycle your e-stuff or see if it can be sold for a few bucks.
Reduce e-waste and feel good … it’s easy to do.
See the video for more information on the process.
“EcoSquid: Be awesome. Feel Good. Get Paid. Sell and Recycle your old electronics “
Via: EcoSquid LINK
Kigo embraces the reduce, reuse, recycle approach ... 
"... aspires to be responsible throughout the entire lifecycle of our shoes so our team and all who wear our shoes can leave a positi
ve...Footprint
They support telecommuting (lowers carbon footprint and saves resources) ... use recycled packaging and plastic for shoe fabrics (reduce, reuse, recycle) and use ony enough packaging to protect their shows (reduce).
Via: Kigo LINK
What makes a Super Bowl (or any party) GREEN ?
Use technology to send invitations (no paper wasted). Buy local foods (minimize your carbon footprint). Buy foods that use alternative energy .
For invitations use " ... Evite or MyPunchBowl ..."
For beer try New Belguim " ... brewery is wind powered! ..." and they are green in many other ways
For serving use real plates or at least real flatware / tableware ... to get a mix of easy to clean and minimize some trash.
Via: Fun Time Guide to Living Green LINK
The First National Bank of Omaha (Nebraska) has as green focus. They have a fuel cell powered data center that is a GHG free power source. They also offer paperless / online banking which can reduce your impact on the environment.
Thinking of switching to paperless banking? Know what the environmental impact is … ?
Did you know that by switching to paperless / electronic banking the average US household can ovoid using and wasting “ … 6.6 pounds of paper and avoid producing 171 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions … equivalent of not driving 169 miles, consuming 8.8 gallons of gas or preserving 24 square feet of forestland.”
Via: First National Bank Omaha LINK
Syracuse University students worked with consultants to create an eco friendly green office at the University's Smith Hall.
“
… teams of ISD 351 students in the College of Visual and Performing Arts (VPA) presented their green office designs to Syracuse University’s Sustainability Division on Oct. 18. The designs were unique and highly creative. …”
See the video for more details …
Via:LINK
Prysm Laser Phosphor Display (LPD) technology uses significantly less energy than other large format displays.
"... Unlike traditional technology that wastes light with filters and layers, LPD uses a patented Laser Engine to convert low-power, solid-state lasers into pure light. "
" ... Fundamentally different from LED or LCD-based display technology ... the industry’s smallest environmental footprint. ..."
Via: PRYSM LINK
There can be a lot of "energy" hidden in waste materials and land-filling is not a good solution ... it takes up limited landfill space and can be expensive ... waste minimization or W2E is often a better choice.
A turn-key W2E systems can be just the thing you need ... 
IST Energy manufactures systems that can convert trash to energy (electricity and heat). The integrated systems can turn " ... paper, wood, plastic, agriculture waste, and food into electricity and heat."
" ... transformation ... within a self-contained, modular environment designed for ease of operation and maintenance."
Via: IST Energy LINK
through Cradle to Cradle concept where waste is reduced. …
… “fundamental reimagining of design and the industrial process that seeks to move beyond eco-efficiency -- the reduction of waste and valuable raw materials -- to eco-effectiveness” …
Via Fast Company: Davos Thinks Cradle to Cradle.
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.
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
Naked® Juice is the first nationally distributed brand to have a" ...100% post-consumer recycled PET (rPET) bottle..."
The new bottles are called the "Naked reNEWabottle" ... and in addition to being made with recycled material are 100% recyclable PET (codes as #1).
The amount of virgin plastic replaced with the 32-oz bottle is 1 millions lbs / yr and when used across the product line will amount to 8.1 million lbs / yr.
Via: Naked Juice LINK
Sprint is developing a standard for green phones called eco-criteria. Manufacturers who meet the standards will be able to use the eco-criteria symbol on the phone … scoring “points” for both Sprint and the manufacturer with the green community.
This is a natural extension of their other ongoing “green” initiatives.
The standard sets categories and as total point level required to be green. The categories are “Reduction of Environmentally Sensitive Materials (ROH), Energy Management, Lifecycle Management, Sustainable Packaging, Eco-Friendly Applications and Innovation.
Points are awared for " ... RoHS Compliance, low levels of PVC, BFRs, Phthalates, Beryllium ... Energy Star qualification ... High recyclability rate, recycling envelop included in box, standardized connector, recycled plastic or renewably sourced plastic content ..."
There are 115 available points and 70 or more are required for the eco-criteria logo.
Via: Sprint LINK
The Army and its operations are energy intensive. Getting energy to remote or war ravaged areas is both expensive and dangerous.
The Army is looking into tents that incorporate PV solar panels that can be used to charge batteries and small electronics like computers. In addition to not having to bring in fuel they can travel lighter by not needing a generator (or a smaller one).
Using " ... Flexible Photovoltaics (PV), ... convert light energy into electricity ... ideal for charging up batteries, making sure your (communications), night vision goggles and computers are powered ..."
The key is technology that makes PV "panels" flexible so they are lightweight and foldable / packable. While still in the testing phase they may be deployed soon.
Via: US Army LINK
One key infrastructure item slowing the acceptance of pure electric vehicles is a lack if EV charging stations. Cracker Barrel is helping to build out the infrastructure using locations along highways
Cracker Barrel Restaurants will install EV chargers from ECOtality at 24 locations in Tennessee. Many of the locations are identified … see map below.
“ … will become a major participant in The EV Project, an initiative to increase the adoption of electric vehicles by creating a solid charging infrastructure across the country. ….”
Dines and shoppers can get “ … an 80% charge … in just under a half hour at … locations which will have the DC Fast Charging stations. …”:
Plans are to start installation in the spring of ‘11 and be complete in several months. Check the Cracker Barrel web site for updates.
Via: Cracker Barrel LINK
Snyder's of Hanover (PA) announced construction of the largest solar energy system in PA in October 2010. Covering 26 acres across from their corporate HQ (in Hanover, PA) the "farm" will have more than 15,000 panels.
" ...reduce greenhouse gas emissions in excess of 230 m
illion pounds of carbon dioxide over a 25 year period. ...energy created ... equals more than 111 million miles not driven by a medium sized car ... 11 million trees would need to be planted to equal the same level of carbon dioxide reduction."
Hanover is not new to green efforts and already has initiatives that include compostable packaging.
View the Webcam image ... LINK
Via: Snyders of Hanover LINK
Alchemy's mission "is top turn useless into useful" They reuse / recycle / up-cycle inner tubes and seat belts to make wallets, belts, bottle openers and messenger bags.
They partner with REI and Trek to take back and recycle inner tubes. You can even take your used inner tubes to REI or 
a Trek store for recycling.
Each product has a small number to the left of and above the Alchemy Goods logo. That number indicates the % b y weight of up-cycled material in the product.
" ... Alchemy Goods bags are, ... recycled. ... we hope you’ll also appreciate our effort to work with recycled materials. Purchase Alchemy bags knowing that you’ve helped limit the consumption of Earth’s natural resources. ..."
Via: Alchemy Goods LINK
bluesign® is a standard for the textile industry that provides a framework for all aspects of the textile process. This standard goes beyond what many companies had developed on their own … and is recognized as the “gold standard” for the textile business. Many outdoor / sporting goods manufactures are supporting this standard including North Face and REI.
“ …exclude substances, which are potentially hazardous to the human health or the environment … independent standard … can be applied to the entire production chain and that delivers certainty at all levels … leading the way to a successful and healthy textile future …”
Check out this YouTube Video …
Via: bluesign LINK
I saw a trailer
in a parking lot with the Sustainable Waste Solutions and knew there would be a blog post there. SWS is a local company with a Souderton, Pa address that turns waste to energy (W2E).
" ... a landfill-free alternative for recycling, waste transportation, and disposal to companies ... throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania, Lehigh Valley and Delaware. ... we generate enoug
h electricity from waste to power tens of thousands of homes per day ..."
W2E burns waste material to generate electric and results in waste that is only 10% by volume compared to the starting amount.
Until we run out of trash this is a renewable energy solution!
See SWS website for more details ...
Via: Sustainable Waste Solutions LINK
Kristianstad Swede
n uses no fossil fuels for heating. Instead they uses biomass from farming leftovers. 80,000 homes heated by biomass and not fossil fuels like coal, oil and gas! And this is an area of the world where it gets VERY COLD !
Since solar and wind would not be effective in Kristianstad they worked with biomass. " ... remains from farming ... manure, potato peels, pig intestines, and even cookies, .... to create biogas ... a certain type of methane, ... heat of the entire city, and to provide electricity for the city as well."
The driving force for the move away from fossil fuels was to protect their environment and they did not want to import fossil fules from abroad.
Via: Metrolic LINK
Philadelphia wants to get 20 % of its electricity from renewable sources by 2015.
" ... Solar City Partnership will develop a strategy through which 2.3 MW of solar electricity will be generated within the city of Philadelphia by 2011 and 57.8 MW by 2021... "
The Solar City Partnership is a JV between the U.S. Department of Energy and the City of Philadelphia.
Two Systems under consideration are ...
- a 900,000 kWh solar system at the Naval Yard.
- installations at city owned water treatment facilities (Philadelphia Water Department).
Via: Phila.Gov LINK
The computer has not eliminated paper and printing has a huge impact on the environment ... paper, ink / toner, electricity ... and then the waste once the printed item is no longer needed.
" ... tendency to print is not diminishing, ... solution should not try to change the printing increase trend, but suggests means to alleviate its impact on the environment. "
" ... PretonSaver&trad
