Sally Smith

When most people envision a landfill, the images that most likely come to mind are those of great heaps and mountains of garbage with a steady stream of dump trucks running day and night and piling more and more on top of what is already existing. While, part of this image may be accurate, the modern landfill is quite different. With people becoming more aware on a daily basis of the impact their actions have on the earth, even landfills are being designed with conservation and sustainability in mind. The Environmental Protection Agency summarizes modern landfills as "well-engineered facilities that are located, designed, operated, and monitored to ensure compliance with federal regulations." In order to ensure that these regulations are being followed in modern landfills there are various protocols in place. One of the first things considered in the planning of a landfill is location. They must be built in a suitable geographic location, away from wetlands, faults, or any restricted areas. Once a location is chosen some sort of liner must be laid in place to prevent any contamination of groundwater and underlying soil. One of the more popular liners currently being used is a geosynthetic liner. These liners are made up of a very thin layer of clay sandwiched between two layers of some sort of geotextile. These are durable and more efficient to install than the more traditional clay liners. A geosynthetic liner is also highly popular in areas with significantly varying temperatures. They stand up well to freeze and thaw cycles. Many modern landfills also consist of some sort of leachate collection and removal system. This is installed on top of the liner and acts to remove sludge and other harmful leachate from the landfill for treatment and removal. Modern landfills have a much smaller impact on the environment than landfills of the past. Once in place, operating practices are strictly monitored. Periodically, the waste is covered with a layer of compact soil. This helps to protect public health by minimizing odor, insects, and rodents. There are also scheduled ground water checks to ensure that nothing harmful from the landfill has leached into the groundwater. When it does come time for the landfill to close, there are strict protocols in place to continue to protect the environment and help to provide long term care for the closed landfill areas, making our earth a better and cleaner place for all.

Reducing your carbon footprint is one of the most effective steps you can take to lessen your impact on the environment. Your building likely has areas that can be improved upon; commercial buildings are some of the greatest offenders of pollution simply due to the amount of energy they use on a daily basis. Here are a few ways to reduce the carbon footprint of your building and increase its property valuation. 1. Upgrade your systems. If your HVAC system hasn't been switched out in some time, it's likely time for an upgrade. Air conditioners and furnaces are only meant to last between 10 to 15 years at best; even if you can extend the lifespan longer than that, you'll spend more in repair costs. Upgrading might seem like a costly initial expense, but newer systems are more energy efficient. Not only does this mean you'll use less energy and preserve the environment more, but you'll also save money – most likely enough to pay for the cost of purchasing a new system. 2. Employ 'green' power. Another way to reduce costs in your company and protect the environment is to make use of 'green' power. By collecting rainwater on your building, you can reduce the water costs you accrue. Attaching solar panels can almost completely eliminate your power bill and further reduce the amount of energy needed to run your systems. If you're in the proper area, geothermal energy can be used to heat the building during winter. Not only do all of these sources pull from the earth, eliminating any carbon output, but they are very cost effective. 3. Find out where energy may be escaping. If your office building is prone to open windows, hold a meeting concerning proper energy usage. Make sure all employees turn off the lights when they are finished in an area. Ensure no devices are left plugged in that use 'phantom power,' and educate your staff on the importance of closing windows or turning off the thermostat. By ensuring that everyone does their part, you can greatly reduce the amount of energy it takes to keep a building comfortable. 4. Eliminate paper. Your employees will love you for it, and so will the environment. Unless something absolutely must be printed out, make a 'digital only' rule concerning documents. Keep all inter-office communication strictly through email, and inform the businesses you work with of your endeavor. You might inspire them to make a change, and at the very least, it will reduce the amount of paperwork your employees have to sort through on a daily basis. 5. Encourage workers to bring their lunch. Less trips to the restaurant mean less carbon emissions from driving. If workers bring their lunches, then they don't have to leave and get in their vehicles. This will also increase office morale and companionship, something sorely lacking from most modern offices. Reducing your carbon footprint isn't a difficult task, but it is one that can have major effects in the years to come. Not only do these steps help keep the Earth healthier, but it increases the property valuation of your building. You can learn more about property valuation here.

The earth is a precious gift that needs to be treated with respect by the people who reside here. The best place to begin is by using eco-friendly products that are designed to reduce waste and protect the environment. Eco-friendly goods help keep the delicate balance of the ecosystems throughout the world. It is easier than ever before to make choices that have a positive impact while living a greener lifestyle. Every day decisions can make the world a better place to live for the people of today and for generations to come. A good place to start is within the home where everyone spends most of their time. Kitchens specifically are gathering places where families come together with friends for good food and stimulating conversation. It needs to be a place where people feel comfortable and relaxed while helping to keep the environment clean. An eco-friendly home is the basis for which a kitchen design should be centered around. Anyone who is building a new home or remodeling an existing one should use a healthy, efficient, eco-friendly plan. To get the best result, it is advisable to use a kitchen design tool online free program that helps homeowners determine what direction they want to go. This tool is the perfect way to go green in a kitchen that is designed to optimize space and functionality. There are many materials on the market for kitchens that stay true to the eco-friendly plan including energy efficient appliances, reclaimed hardwoods, recycled materials, and insulated windows. Areas such as flooring, cabinets, and countertops need to be made out of sustainable materials that are harvested in a way that is good for the planet. There are many wonderful green products that are made for kitchens such as cork, bamboo, and recycled glass tiles. It is important to remember to reduce, reuse, and recycle whenever possible. Now is the time to design your home online for free using easy to follow instructions such as the tool from Digital Decorator. This program allows people to create a space that best suits their needs, taking into consideration the size of the family and entertainment goals. Earth-friendly plans should be energy efficient by using light fixtures with CLF bulbs and insulated windows. These ideas are good for the planet but are also great for the checkbook because of the energy savings. Properly designing a kitchen is an investment that shows rewards in so many ways. There is only one earth and it is everyone’s job to help keep it clean for the generations yet to come, and using the kitchen design online tool helps the whole process go smoothly.

Cars have been around for many years, possibly even centuries. However, it has only been recently that we are starting to worry about the affects it has had on Mother Earth. We have to figure out a way to fix it so Mother Earth is a lot safer than she is. For years the human race did not have a care in the world what the pollution was doing to her. One of the biggest things we are doing is leaving a heavy carbon skid mark. Today I am going to show you that there are ways for you to reduce the carbon skid mark your car leaves. In this process, it will help Mother Earth as well. Sit back and join me in a tour while we learn how to protect Mother Earth better. Come on, come join us; It will be an exciting ride and well worth your time. Let’s Go Green Today! 1. Go the speed limit. Don’t be a speed racer just because you are driving a Corvette and the person next to you is driving Mustang. Both are sports cars indeed, but you do not have to go out, show off with them, and see which one is faster and better. It is not a competition. We all have to get to a destination. Leave your house early enough that it allows you to get to where you have to be on time by just driving the speed limit. 2. Drive a Hybrid Who would have ever thought they would come up with cars that run off of electricity in our day and age? All they need to do next is make them fly around the solar system like in The Flintstones. That is probably wishful thinking to think we would have flying cars in our time, but we do have cars that run off of electricity. The Hybrid Ford Escape is one of them. Buy one and save on gas and drive it electric. That way it does not pollute the air of Mother Earth. 3. Get Your Vehicle Inspected If you get your car inspection done every year, you should know if it is a hazard to the environment or not. If it passes inspection you know that it is as safe as it can be. If your car inspection fails, fix it the right way before you decide to drive it again. Not only is it helping you, but it is helping Mother Earth as well. Let’s just say you do not have what the world might call a car, but you have an SUV or a truck, it still does not give you an excuse not to get your vehicle inspection done. You need to get your vehicle inspection done even if your state does not require it. You can learn more in-depth details about vehicle inspections here. 4. Limit the use of Your Air Conditioner We all love to use the air conditioner in our car in order to stay cool on those hot days. That too is hurting Mother Earth. If you would just turn off your air conditioner and roll down the windows then you would help Mother Earth breathe better. It might even keep your car in good shape longer if you do not use the air conditioner that much in your car. One thing is for sure, if you do not use the air conditioner in your car, you save on gas. There are so many ways to help reduce or reverse the carbon skid mark of your car. You have to really be willing to do it. To stop Mother Earth’s cry for help, we all need to learn to go green. If we would all go green, we might not only be able to save Mother Earth, but we would also save our Human Race.

Towers of landfill waste and the impacts of pollution are very real issues. As more and more people make the shift to intentionally make green lifestyle choices, there is also a move to embrace eco-friendly wardrobe choices. This may mean using built in wardrobes and wardrobe solutions to best utilize and view what you already own, or periodically donating clothing that you no longer wear and buying new to you choices from thrift or consignment stores. While these practices help to keep textiles out of ever accumulating landfill spaces, the shift to eco-friendly wardrobe choices may also involve buying clothing made from natural and non toxic materials. Read on for some further information about some of the top green material choices. Bamboo This textile option involves the use and manufacturing of renewable grass. It is a wonderful and sustainable choice, but be careful about companies that use chemicals for the manufacturing process. Industrial Hemp Hemp is easily harvested and can be grown with minimal pesticides, fertilizers, and water. Sometimes it even grows in the absence of pesticides and fertilizers. Perhaps best of all, it requires very little maintenance and attention, but is a textile that is lightweight and absorbent. Organic Cotton While cotton remains a very popular textile choice, conventional cotton growing involves widespread use of pesticides and insecticides. Some consumers have shifted to purchasing organic cotton out of respect for the well being of cotton farmers, and also out of concern for their own skin and health. Parents of new babies are increasingly making the transition to organic cotton, which is known for being soft, just as conventional cotton is. Recycled Polyester This fabric is amazingly made from recycled soda bottles and previously worn polyester fabrics. Wool This material is also a popular choice made from a renewable source. Wool is known for being warm and fire resistant. When you are buying wool, look for companies that treat animals humanely. Green living includes caring for all of the ecosystem and living creatures in it. A big step in creating or enhancing a green wardrobe involves knowing what you have. If you do not have an adequate closet system, your clothing will be disorganized and not well utilized. Regardless of your living space, there are a wide variety of built in wardrobes and wardrobe solutions that will help you to best organize the clothing that you have. Check out this gallery to get some ideas. If you are unsure of where to shop for eco-friendly clothing, check online reviews or make inquires of friends and family members. There are many companies who practice sustainable practices. Also consider making green living a fun part of every day life. Organize annual or seasonal clothing and accessory swaps for friends. Embrace the green way of living!

Planning a wedding is always a challenge. Planning a wedding that includes everything you desire and is respectful to the environment is even more of a challenge. You really can have the eco-friendly wedding of your dreams and you can do it without adding extra stress to your current planning. Jewelry A wedding band is a visual symbol of your devotion to each other. Most couples go with gold and diamonds but there are other options available. Vintage jewelry is always special and you can be assured it will often be one of a kind rather than one of many in a mass-produced batch. If your heart is set on gold and diamonds, make sure the gold itself is recycled and that the diamond has been mined without violence to others, or consider a diamond substitute such as moissanite for your wedding band. Wedding Dress Let's be honest, it is likely that you will only wear your wedding dress one time. Wedding dresses are not eco-friendly for this very reason. If you have a dress previously worn by your mother or any other loved one, have it tailored and redesigned to make it your own. The same can be done with vintage dresses found in secondhand stores. If you wish to wear a new dress, look for natural fabrics such as organic cotton or silk. Flowers Flowers already seem very eco-friendly as a decoration but pesticides are often used during their growth to control insects. Look for seasonal blooms grown locally or use potted plants so they can be replanted after the festivities have ended. Consider using soy candles as a substitute for or in addition to flowers as they can be reused at a later time as well. Catering Plan your meal to include as much locally grown and organic food as possible. Buying organic can sometimes cost a bit more, but this is one area where it is very worth the price you pay. The pesticides used on non-organic food are an unwelcome wedding guest that you do not need on your special day. Reception Holding the reception outdoors is the kindest for the environment but an indoor reception can be eco-friendly too if held in the daytime to reduce electricity usage. Wedding music can be played by a live band without the use of electric microphones and amplifiers. Think of how much more intimate your wedding music will sound with only real voices and instruments. This blog post will give you some ideas about planning your wedding music. Plan your special occasion thoughtfully and include the surrounding environment in those plans. You really can have your wedding cake and eat it too by having the eco-friendly wedding of your dreams!

Homeowners today are choosing eco-friendly houses in increasingly large numbers. These homes conserve energy and other resources like water. They improve air quality and create very little waste. Not all builders can design and construct these types of homes. There are several things to look for when choosing a builder for an eco-friendly home project. A Portfolio of Other Successful Eco-Friendly Projects The first thing to look for is a portfolio of previous successful eco-friendly projects. The builders should be able to provide a detailed description or pictures of construction projects that have clear environmentally friendly aspects. Previous projects could be a home that uses solar power and geothermal heating or the installation of an eco-friendly water pump. The projects should show the builders have a strong commitment to environmentally responsible construction. Sustainable Construction Practices The right builder for an eco-friendly home project will use sustainable construction practices. Sustainable practices attempt to minimize any negative impacts that could emerge from the different materials and techniques used to build the house. These practices should include proper disposal of any construction waste. The builders should use a minimum amount of harmful chemicals that could affect ground water or air quality. It will help to find builders who conserve energy during construction. This will reduce the overall environmental footprint of a home from the start. Two modules in particular that your should have acquired are the Site Establishment & Environmental Obligations and the Environmental Management and Planning courses available through Blueprint CPD. Knowledge about the Latest Green Technologies and Materials The technology, materials and best practices for eco-friendly construction are not static. They change and evolve. The right builders should stay current with the newest technologies and materials through continuing professional development (CPD) and training. CPD points for builders show that the workers have undergone training recently. The builders are constantly learning about new sustainable materials, supplies that do not contain volatile organic compounds and the latest techniques that reduce waste. By choosing a company that earns new builders CPD points every year, clients can rest assured that the workers will be using only the latest technologies and construction practices. Proper Licensing In the Area Any builder chosen for an eco home project should hold all of the proper licensing within the area. This often means being a registered contractor and holding current insurance. Some areas also require builders CPD points to be earned every year. Companies that do not have the right licensing could cause problems later especially if issues emerge around liability for an accident. The actual licensing requirements vary from one municipality to the next. Good References The right builder for an eco-friendly home project will have several good references from past clients. Asking for two to three references is always a smart idea. These references can speak to issues that might not be obvious from advertisements or talking to the builders. References could talk about how much energy was saved after the project was completed or how the work is standing up over time.

Eco-Friendly Homes - Today's Popular Focus There's a good reason home buyers and homeowners focus heavily on eco-friendly homes. Solar energy is today's cleanest, most convenient way to cost-effective home ownership. The beauty of solar energy is how it has improved in the past decade. Today, solar panels are diverse and are barely perceptible installed on roof tops and siding. One important factor is the progress in hi-tech solar energy production. For homeowners, heating and cooling their homes can literally pay the cost of solar panel installation within half a decade. The great news is that solar energy can be installed by professional HVAC experts. For those living in high temperature regions, a conversion to solar air conditioning cuts energy consumption and costs. Solar and Aircon for the Home Today's eco conscious homeowners strive to reduce their fossil fuel use. For newly built homes, home buyers can choose air conditioning produced from solar energy. There's a wide range of choices for solar energy installation. In some states, solar air conditioning installations are offered on a lease-to-buy arrangement, month-to-month usage or full purchase of a solar air conditioner. With full purchase, it's important to check state and federal tax credits with regard to reduction in energy use. Solar and Aircon for the home is a perfect duo to consider when air conditioner installation is the next major home improvement. Air conditioner installation pros today are fully experienced in converting or adapting an A/C system to function with existing solar energy sources. How to Find a Solar and Aircon Installer In most states, solar energy professionals include electricians, air conditioner installation experts, electricians, construction contractors and electrical and mechanical engineers. To insure highest standards are met, these professionals are tested and receive licensing and certification. To find a solar HVAC installer to replace an existing air conditioner or central air system, look for an installer who can provide licensing and certification of their expertise. Today, licensed electricians possess a diverse background of study in the newest, eco-friendly forms of energy in addition to their knowledge in a broad range of electrical installations. For eco conscious homeowners, this makes it easier to find the most proficient solar installer. Experience and Attention to Eco Conscious Customers Discuss the potential for savings with an electrician with solar experience. Homeowners will find the installation process for solar A/C is reasonably priced and worth the savings over the long term. Depending on the A/C system chosen, an electrician with solar experience will have homeowners enjoying a cool, comfortable home, secure in the knowledge they are maintaining an eco friendly environment that's clean and safe.

It seems like everyone is talking about going green. At some fundamental level, it appears that a lot of people have a deep concern for improving the environment. This is especially true when it comes to purchasing and building homes. An increased number of people are seeking to make their homes more energy efficient. There is also a move to make homes healthier for both the occupants and the environment. Additionally, there is a movement to employ the use of sustainable materials and practices when developing a home as well. Ultimately, changes to the way people think about building homes will tend to lead more to changes in how building inspectors conduct house inspections, if such professionals want to generate a greater income based on these now existing trends. For building inspectors to truly capitalize on these trends means that they will need to begin to play the role of an energy auditor, when conducting house inspections. For a lot of green minded people, the idea of energy efficiency is key, if not critical, in their decision to build or purchase a home. Unfortunately, a typical home inspection fails to take energy efficiency into consideration far enough to be considered a green home inspection. Door blower testing for leaks and performing an analysis on electric bills over a lengthy duration, are just a couple services an inspector could provide to meet the needs of the emerging market trend of green minded home buyers. When considering sustainable materials for use in a home, an inspector may want to point out that using materials that get replenished at the same rate or higher than they are being used up is a truly sustainable environmentally friendly practice. Such as in the case of wood that is taken from a dense area of tree growth, where the trees are replenished at a rate that is greater than they are being used up. Alternatively, a sustainable practice is another important form of conservation. Such as in the case of using water saving equipment, like low water volume flush toilets in a home, rather than toilets that use way more water than is necessary. This sort of analysis leads to a more in depth inspection, thus helping to meet a market need that can potentially earn an inspector more money for such expanded services. Expanding an inspection to also include how a home will impact the health of humans and the environment is needed more than one might imagine. People who have severe asthma or allergies, for example, want to be sure that a home is safe for them to occupy. A home with a lot of carpeting, rather than tile floors, may not be healthy for such a resident. Or, the location where one attempts to build a home might produce a problem with a person's health or an ecosystem, which would not be healthy for the environment. Inspectors who provide this sort of analysis would be giving customers a valuable service--especially for many home owners whose health hinges on living in a home that satisfies certain pre-qualifying factors. Inspectors can address all the above concerns and better monetize their field of expertise with additional training as a home energy auditor. They can also learn to point out green features of a home for their clients. And perhaps more importantly, if a home seller is claiming that a particular green feature exists in a home, the inspector can help the potential home buyer to determine if the claims are true or not. This can be done by acquiring from the seller the appropriate documentation necessary to substantiate such claims about the property in question. In essence, such modifications to the tasks of an inspector can dramatically improve their marketability to the growing numbers of green niche consumers.

There is only one earth and it is up to its occupants to keep it clean by introducing eco-friendly practices on a daily basis. One of the best places to begin is in and around the home by using products that are intended to protect the environment. Creating an atmosphere of comfort based on the philosophy of greener is better promotes a healthier world filled with positive energy. A persons home should be a sanctuary where they can relax in the knowledge that they are doing all they can to make the world a better place to live. This is not just for the people of today but for the generations still to come who deserve the opportunity to live in a clean and protected place. They can raise their families knowing that everyone has made decisions based on what is best for the planet. A great way to begin the foray into an eco-friendly kitchen is to know what materials are sustainable. These materials are produced without depleting the supply of non-renewable sources or disrupting the balance of the natural environment. The best tip for creating a greener kitchen is to use materials and products that are eco-friendly such as bamboo, recycled materials, and cork. Anything used in the home should be non-toxic to ensure safe living conditions. Kitchen benchtops are used for food preparation and serving areas, so they need to be made of materials that are strong and safe from any dangers. They are the most used surfaces in the home, so durability, practicality, and safety should be considered before purchasing new kitchen benchtops. There are many new eco-friendly products that are designed to work well for the kitchen while providing wonderful service for many years. A goal for everyone around the world should be to reduce their carbon footprint, creating a cleaner healthier environment for generations to come. The first step in achieving this is to follow simple tips on going green in the kitchen such as using benchtops that are manufactured using sustainable or recycled materials. They need to be non-toxic and made using eco-friendly products that are suited for high usage work areas. Flooring and cabinets are also a great way to incorporate sustainable materials into the home while giving it a modern up to date look. There are many different styles and colors available to fit today’s modern kitchen décor or layout for both new builds and renovation projects. Saving the world begins with the people of today who want to preserve the earth by using products that are eco-friendly throughout the home and especially in the kitchen where people gather for good food and great times. Now is the time to check out all the ways to become greener in and around the home using innovative eco-friendly products.

Our society is rapidly moving towards Earth friendly behaviors and practices. Even profit hungry businesses are going green by investing in renewable energy resources and using products that are environmentally friendly. Many commercial cleaning businesses have also made the transition to green practices. Businesses that hire cleaning services should be aware that plenty of these companies have made an effort to “go green” in an attempt to save the planet while procuring customers. These green cleaners utilize cleaning methods and substances that are healthy for their own workers, the client's employees and our planet. The Green Cleaning Movement In order to clean in a “green” manner, custodial services make a concerted attempt to only select cleaning products that are environmentally and health friendly. They go out of their way to find sprays, soaps and other cleaning fluids that don't contain harmful chemicals. Green cleaners also perform their cleaning functions with methods that will not harm any of the employees on the premises. They are extremely mindful of the ramifications of bargain rate commercial cleaning solutions that can negatively affect their own employees, the employees of the work site and the actual building that needs to be maintained. Rest assured that all of these considerations are accounted for without sacrificing the quality of the office cleaning. The Value of a Green Clean A green clean isn't merely limited to the use of environmentally friendly cleaning supplies. Green cleaners go to great lengths to properly train their employees about the right cleaning methods. Shoddy techniques can be damaging to not only the client's building but also the people who spend time there. Green cleaners are trained on how to clean surfaces and facilities in a manner that will not leave them tainted with potentially harmful sprays and liquids. This means that the cleaning staff is taught about proper disposal methods and green cleaning procedures that will remove dirt and kill germs without leaving any residues. Businesses and individuals interested in using conventional cleaning solutions should be aware that these products typically contain nasty chemicals that can prove poisonous not only to the building that is supposed to be cleaned but also the people that occupy it. Traditional cleaning products that are left on sink surfaces, in toilet bowls or sprayed into the air (aerosols) have the potential to harm our air and water supplies. The results can be disastrous. Our air becomes more toxic, our water is tainted with chemicals and aquatic life can be mutated or killed. So, anyone looking to hire a cleaning service should be proactive and do a little bit of research to find a cleaning company in the area that is committed to green practices and products. Reasons to Go Green The primary reason for a business to hire a green office cleaning service is to preserve the health of employees. Sick people aren't very productive. Compromising indoor air quality to save a few bucks on a cleaning contract just isn't worth it. Green cleaners also utilize products that don't contain allergens so there is less of a chance that the building's staff will experience allergy symptoms. Be aware that green cleaners can offer competitive rates even though they aren't purchasing bargain basement cleaning products. Economically efficient green cleaning services are out there. Take a moment to find one and go green today.