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HannahWhittenly

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  1. HannahWhittenly
    Energy efficiency is probably the most important thing that can be done to improve life, now and in the future. Efficiently using energy not only saves money for each household, but improves the country, the world and the quality of life for everyone. There are many simple ways to conserve energy in homes and businesses with far-reaching benefits.

    Save Money in Homes and Businesses
    Saving money could be the most motivating reason to conserve energy. Homes and businesses alike benefit from simple changes, such as replacing light bulbs with LED, CFLs or halogen bulbs. Proper insulation, sealing air leaks and installing a programmable thermostat saves on heating and cooling needs. Changing or cleaning air filters lets air flow more easily through a home or business, reducing the system’s need for energy. Blanketing the water heaters will retain the heat, and reducing the temperature to 120 degrees Fahrenheit saves on heating the water. Electronics can sap energy so buying Energy Star labeled computers and appliances saves power, and using power strips makes it easy to turn off all devices at once when not in use.

    A specialist from Retro Teck Window recommends that homeowners do their part by choosing energy-efficient fixtures and materials for use in the home. Energy can be conserved with Energy Star-rated windows and doors, while less can be consumed overall with low-flow plumbing fixtures and eco-friendly appliances.

    An Improved Economy
    Energy efficiency not only saves money in homes and businesses, it improves the economy by saving on city, state and federal government expenditures. Projects aimed at energy efficiency created over 830,000 jobs in the US in 2010. Innovations are spurred on by demand for energy conserving products. For example, when new standards for light bulb efficiency were required in 2012, new money saving lighting products appeared, from the dimmable candelabra CFLs to LED streetlights.

    Improved Environment and Quality of Life
    Pollution is terrible for air quality and health. Emission production of greenhouse gases ranges from cars to power plants. Less of these noxious fumes makes all our lives more pleasant and enjoyable. Cities with rail transportation, especially electric rail, make getting around quicker and easier while saving energy and fuel. The decrease in emissions caused by accessible and efficient public transportation improves both the health of the local inhabitants and the environment around the city.

    These money saving devices and simple actions can be done without sacrificing use or power and will greatly improve the environment. Energy efficiency allows people to do more and use less energy at the same time while saving money, improving the environment and quality of life for generations to come.
  2. HannahWhittenly
    The steady increase in levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is a concern for everyone due to global warming and ocean water pollution. Global warming is changing climate patterns worldwide, leading to changes in food production and lifestyles for the population. Today, researchers are trying to find viable ways for United States’ industries and private individuals to reduce carbon dioxide emissions to protect the environment from additional pollution.

    Reducing Coal Usage
    Reducing the use of coal in homes, businesses and manufacturing plants is an important way to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. Not only will burning coal and its derivatives lead to an increase of carbon dioxide in the air, obtaining the fuel and converting it to useable energy damages the atmosphere. Agencies of the United States that regulate digging and using coal can provide incentives for mining companies to find safer fuel options.

    Creating Better Equipment
    There are ways to create better equipment that removes carbon dioxide from gas emissions at factories to avoid polluting the environment. Experts can also design systems that clean emissions to remove carbon dioxide gasses to prevent the greenhouse effect. To encourage manufacturing plants to upgrade to new machinery that does not emit carbon dioxide or helps to remove the gases, the United States government can offer tax incentives to reduce the financial burden of adopting new technologies.

    Offer Incentives to Homeowners
    Making it easier for homeowners to make changes to their home to reduce carbon dioxide emissions is also vital. A major source of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is climate control that includes using fuel operated cooling and heating equipment. To reduce the amount of fuel required to keep a home at a comfortable temperature, homeowners can add insulation to walls and attics or place solar panels on a roof. Making it less expensive for homeowners to make changes to a home to reduce energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions is essential.

    Additional Viable Ways to Reduce Carbon Dioxide Emissions in the United States
    It is also important for the public to have easy access to everyday energy saving devices such as public transportation, hybrid vehicles and compact fluorescent lightbulbs. All of these items are great ways for private individuals to make an impact on the reduction of carbon dioxide to prevent environmental pollution along with avoiding the greenhouse effect. Many people have already begun to make changes in their homes and businesses, leading to cleaner air.

    Informational Credit to Nationwide Boiler
  3. HannahWhittenly
    Humans have, for quite some time now, enjoyed a cozy spot on top of the food chain. Cockroaches may love the human monarchy, but whitetail deer, longleaf pines, Pacific salmon and other exploited species have suffered greatly as a result of it. Thankfully, humanity has started to take its stewardship of the earth more seriously. The following are some of the ways people around the world are taking steps to make large-scale sustainability a reality.

    BMW i3 Carbon Fiber Manufacturing
    Ten times as strong as mild steel and half as heavy, carbon fiber was once a super-material reserved for NASA and oil sheiks. BMW intends to change that. The $42,000 BMW i3 has 45 pieces of carbon fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) components, pieces produced in America and molded in Germany. The i3 is the first mass-produced car to extensively use carbon fiber. The goal? BMW hopes to reduce the lifetime carbon footprint of the i3 by one-third.

    Mirai Indoor Urban Farm
    In an abandoned Sony factory in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, thousands of LED lights cultivate 25,000 square feet of indoor gardens. The Mirai farm produces 10,000 heads of lettuce daily, all the while boasting 90 percent less waste than a traditional outdoor farm. All water used is collected, filtered, and reused. A specialist from Terminal City Iron Works Ltd., a member of the American Water Works Association, says this could greatly reduce agriculture wastewater in the future. Mirai has plans to expand into Hong Kong and Russia as long as local electrical grids can deliver reliable power.

    New York City Cool Roof Program
    On a sunny July afternoon, an asphalt or modified bitumen roof can sizzle at 150-175 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat leaches into the building, demanding energy for air conditioning and creating urban "heat islands." Air pollution and insect populations skyrocket. So in 2010, New York City launched a cool roof program, where hundreds of roofs were slathered with white, reflective coatings. The city movement soon spread to Pittsburgh, Sacramento and other cities nationwide.

    Zohar Land-Based Fishery
    Dr. Yonathan Zohar, a scientist at the University of Maryland’s Department of Marine Biotechnology, broke new ground (or water) with his warehouse fishery. He designed a land-based aquaculture system where fish predictably reproduce, inspired by controlled environmental cues like varying salinity, lighting and temperature. The fish breed free from pathogens and invasive species. Animal waste is filtered through microbial communities generating only methane, a potential biofuel. "I'm a strong believer that in 20 years from now, most seafood will be grown on land," Zohar says. "It can go to the Midwest; it can go into the inner city; it can go wherever."

    Large-scale sustainable invention is everywhere: the garden rooftops of Chicago, the city-wide composting programs of New York City, the mass transit systems of Houston. Where can you find it?
  4. HannahWhittenly
    Saying that the e-waste or electronic recycling industry is the same on Main Street, USA as it is in the Asian market, is a huge erroneous statement if there ever was one. The post below covers how the growing Asian market is handling the matter of e-waste, and what we can all do individually to tackle this growing problem on a bigger scale.

    One Township In Illinois
    One case in point is the Orland Township in Illinois. What was once a thriving enterprise of volunteers loading up TV consoles, computers, and other electronic devices for recycling efforts, has now shut down and much due to its own success. After more than 500,000 pounds of items were recycled on an annual basis, recyclers decided to start charging the Township per pound. Evidently, this was not a good fiscal move for Orland, and the center was closed. (1)

    On The Other Side of The Pond...
    Meanwhile, the Asian-Pacific region takes the largest share in electronic waste management being followed by the European sector. If one considers trashed e-waste as opposed to just plain recycled e-waste, the trash takes the largest chunk of the market. In total, the global volume of e-waste amassed to 57.7 million tons in 2013 as recycling centers continue to flourish for this Asian market sector.

    Some Startling Facts
    According to the Environment Protection Agency (EPA), electronic waste is now the fastest-growing municipal waste issue confronting state and local governments. The average U.S. household has a minimum of 24 electronic devices. Of that amount, most statistics show only 15 to 25 percent of our e-waste as actually being recycled. (2)

    How Some US Communities Handle E-Waste
    For some communities such as Orland Township, the e-waste recycling business has almost come to a halt. For others, is it a thriving industry with more recycling centers being added to the landscape all the time. Regardless of where you live, solutions must be given. One possible short-term solution is found in forcing manufacturers to shoulder the cost of recycling their e-products.
    Another short-term solution given by General Recycling Industries Ltd, an Edmonton recycling center. They explore giving affordable recycling pick up and bin services to communities all over Canada. (3)

    However, everyone doing their bit of purposeful re-purposing before the recycling process is perhaps the best solution of all...
    The Cristina Foundation focuses on people with disabilities, at-risk students and those at or below the poverty-level by donating one's electronic discards through several other umbrella organizations
    Local churches and charities many times take older cellphones, computers and printers
    Some cellphone carriers accept your old piece as a trade-in for a newer model or upgrade
    Gazelle.com and Cellularrecycler.com buy older phones/computers.
    A community's municipal website may list structured e-waste recycling programs with drop-off points.

    Simply following through on these steps mentioned above goes a long way to help keep our planet green. Whatever your community or you decide to do to help eliminate e-waste, be certain to first wipe personal data clean from the hard drives and cellphones.

    (1) http://www.chicagotribune.com/suburbs/daily-southtown/news/ct-sta-electronic-recycling-st-0210-20150209-story.html#page=1
    (2) http://www.epa.gov/
    (3) http://www.generalrecycling.com/recycling_services.html
  5. HannahWhittenly
    Using sod or other earthen building materials to construct a shelter is a set of techniques that goes back millennia. It has also appeared in many countries and regions including Africa, Europe, the Middle East, China and India.

    Historical Sod Building
    Icelanders are especially known for their skill in building sod houses, which they generally covered with a cob roof. The Icelanders quickly realized that sod, which was easier to find than wood, could be more durable than stone, when used correctly. Native American tribes in the Southwest also built shelters made of sod, as did later settlers in the region. The Homestead Act of 1862 gave settlers lots of cheap land, which means they had plenty of turf to work with. Many North American pioneers made bricks out of the sod, which was so dense it was hard to cut. That density made it a strong, durable building material.
    Like Iceland, the Southwest had little in the way of trees, so settlers had to use something else for building materials. Sod was readily available and had the added advantage of superior insulation. A sod house kept people warm in the winter and hot in the summer.

    Building Techniques/Materials
    Cob is a building material that can be made from sand, earth, clay, water, and some kind of fibrous or organic material, like straw. Cob has been used in dwellings all over the world. The mixture would be ladled onto a stone foundation is layers. Workers would compress the cob by walking on it. Cob houses date back to prehistoric times and are still built today.
    Rammed earth is a building technique for constructing walls. The builders make a damp mixture of earth, gravel, clay and sand and pour it into a mold or frame. Cement, asphalt or lime is added to the mix as a stabilizer. The material is then compressed, either by hand or with a machine. When the wall is dry, the frame is removed. Sod or turf typically consists of tough grass that has a very thick root structure. Typically, the sod is cut out of the earth is strips and then piled on top of each other to form walls. Sod houses are inexpensive but can be vulnerable to rain damage.
    Wattle and daub is another ancient technique that dates back 6000 years. It involves making a lattice out of wood strips called a wattle and then filling it in with the daub, a sticky glop made form a combination of any of the following: sand, soil, clay, straw or animal dung.

    Advantages of Sod Housing
    Sod and other earthen buildings have a number of advantages. They are comparatively cheap and easy to build. An expert from a local sod company in Atlanta says a well-built sod home can last for years before needing repairs. Although flooding danger can be a problem in some cases, earthen buildings are fire-proof or at least fire-resistant. The walls can be around two feet thick and are therefore strong and durable. They can resist insects and earthquakes and can hypothetically last for generations.

    Environmental Benefits
    In the 80's and 90's, as people became more concerned about their impact on the environment, sod and earthen houses became popular once again. These are the perfect “green” buildings--sod houses don't contribute to pollution or deforestation caused by the manufacture of building materials. Nobody has to mine for the materials used in the structure and no power tools are required to complete the frame. Building materials that come from factories are often treated with harsh chemicals, while sod is not. The materials all have local origins; nothing is imported from thousands of miles away, which saves on transportation and fuel costs.

    Sod and other earthen buildings have their advantages. They may be considered somewhat exotic in wealthy nations, but they are actually very common in developing countries because the materials used are both cheap and readily available. For builders on a budget looking for inexpensive, sustainable building materials, sod and earth bricks are some of the best out there.
  6. HannahWhittenly
    Using water efficiently is always important, but doing so becomes vital during a drought. Every year, some part of North America experiences a drought. In 2012, drought struck 65 percent of the country. California has been in the throes of a drought for several years.

    Obey all Water Restrictions
    During a drought, the water utility or some other regional authority is going to impose restrictions on water use in order to conserve water. Such rules are likely to include watering the garden and/or lawn only during certain times of the day, not washing your car and so forth. The rules are intended to insure that there is enough water available to fight fires and perform other vital functions that help everybody. They will be lifted when the drought ends.

    Check For Leaks
    An easy way to conserve water during a drought is to make sure all the plumbing in your house or apartment is working properly. A specialist from Always Plumbing & Heating says a leaky faucet or cracked pipe can waste a lot of water, so if you find you’re using more than you intend, check around the house for even the smallest of leaks.

    Upgrade Your Fixtures
    If you have the money, renovating the bathroom or kitchen may prove to be a good investment. The EPA has established a program called WaterSense to help people find products and services that conserve water. To earn the WaterSense label, which looks like a blue water drop overlaid with a green leaf, a service or product must be at least 20 percent more efficient at using water without sacrificing performance. WaterSense products include toilets, showerheads, and faucets. In some states, it's possible to get a rebate for buying a WaterSense product.

    Make Your Garden and Lawn More Drought-Resistant
    As the water utility will impose restrictions on watering lawns or gardens, getting plants that can tolerate arid conditions will make abiding by the rules less onerous. The EPA recommends choosing native plants for any new landscaping, for they will be accustomed to the climate and need less fertilizer than exotic plants will. Native plants are also more resistant to local pests or diseases than are non-natives.

    Plant Less Grass
    Grass generally needs more water than many other plants. Consequently, properties with big lawns use more water than do properties covered with a variety of other plants. Use grass only for areas like a playground where it has a useful purpose and plant groundcovers elsewhere. Choose native or drought-resistant grasses.

    Some of the above techniques are simple and inexpensive, while others will take more effort and/or money. But they will all save water and money over the long haul.
  7. HannahWhittenly
    The green trend is spreading across the globe, as our world continues to change and feel the consequences of modern life. More and more people are realizing the benefits of less harmful products, including the pesticides that protect many of our foods. Numerous companies are investing in this trend because people continue to buy the eco-friendly goods deemed less harmful for human consumption. Due to the sensitivity many people have expressed over concern for their environment, more natural pesticides are becoming favorable and demand is increasing worldwide. Organic pesticides are harmless to the environment, while also being free of other harmful components for human consumption. Here is how the science of organic pesticides are changing.

    Green Chemistry
    Green chemistry allows for the engineering of products without excessive amounts of hazardous substances. For example, chemical equations are being altered so as to make harmless water the byproduct of many chemical reactions instead of harsh chemicals such as ammonia.

    Synthetic Chemicals
    Synthetic chemicals tend to make up most of the common pesticides used in food production across the world. However, it is difficult to regulate these man-made chemicals, an alarming concept for consumers. Government regulations are beginning to encourage the production of products that use green chemicals instead of synthetic, allowing the consumer to better understand these chemicals and make informed decisions about what they are purchasing.

    Methods Used to Make Chemicals More Green
    Chemicals are becoming more green in many ways. Reducing formaldehyde, eliminating ozone-depleting gases, and developing sustainable methods for the production of less harmful chemicals are all practices that are being explored by scientists in order to make the world a safer place for both humans and the environment in which they live. By reducing the effects of creating chemicals, pesticides are becoming more green, and reducing and eliminating the harmful byproducts of the chemical processes that go into the traditional method of creating pesticides are making these chemical compounds safer. Both through individual effort and the efforts of those who battling to protect the earth, along with governments around the world, green pesticides are becoming more and more common, creating a safer environment.
    Even in local businesses, pest removal is becoming less harmful and more humane. ICE Pest Control and Wildlife Removal, a pest control company based in Toronto, says they are always working on natural ways of removing dangerous animals and insects. Everywhere, more and more companies are doing more to fix the problems associated with harmful chemicals and sprays.

    Organic pesticides are one way of creating a more sound environment for consumers interested in a more natural and green way of life. These pesticides contain no GMOs, added chemical compounds or colorants. The result is a safe, natural, and green product that continues to protect crops as traditional pesticides have before. By using up-to-date equipment and experts in the related fields, research is always expanding and developing new methods to attain these green chemicals.
  8. HannahWhittenly
    Being eco-friendly and caring for the environment is becoming more and more trendy as people begin to realize not only the necessity of conserving natural resources, but also that eco-friendly practices can often save money in the long run. This is especially true when it comes to building a new home. There are tons of new building materials on the market that are eco-friendly and efficient! Here are the top five.

    Recycled Steel
    Instead of cutting down trees and destroying the forests, many builders are choosing to use recycled steel, often made from scraped cars, instead. There are companies that can make custom beams based on the blueprints of the new house, and best of all, constructing a home out of steel makes it incredibly strong and is perfect for areas that are prone to high winds or earthquakes.

    Recycled Wood/Plastic Composite Lumber
    Sticking with the recycling theme, this product combines recycled plastics with wood fibers to create a strong, pliable building material that is less prone to rot and less toxic than typical chemically-treated wood lumber.

    Cool Roofing
    A blazing hot summer day and a black roof means one thing: high air conditioning costs. Thus, it makes good sense to use cool roofing materials that are light-colored and reflective to beat the heat. However, if a light-colored roof doesn't please you aesthetically, new materials are hitting the market which are reflective and darker colored. A specialist from Century Roofing Ltd says a recyclable metal roof can be an excellent green option, as it will last for years before being reused.

    Straw Bales
    Straw is actually the stalks of grains like wheat, oats, and barley. This by-product has no nutritional value to livestock, but it does have a great insulation value for building homes. When baled, it is easily stackable and bonds nicely to stucco and plaster walls.

    Earth
    The ultimate renewable resource, the dirt from the Earth, also known as adobe, is free and abundant! While it may be harder to find a skilled craftsman who knows how to build a home out of adobe in the United States, countries around the world have been using adobe for centuries. They have long understood that this resource has a great thermal mass and allows for visually appealing homes.

    Using any of these eco-friendly home building materials, whether it be recycled steel, recycled wood/plastic composite lumber, cool roofing, straw bales, or earth, can help save the only planet we have. Plus, many of these products create energy-efficient buildings that will save on utility bills for years to come.
  9. HannahWhittenly
    As the State of Pennsylvania continues to battle with various oil drilling companies regarding environmental violations, fracking sits at the top of list. Comparing the elemental damages to the amount of these proposed fines may mirror a lopsided playing field of sorts. Proponents of the fracking phenomena apparently see nothing wrong with polluting the groundwater contained in nearby streams via mishandled wastewater, thus killing off seemingly countless schools of fish, and rendering otherwise healthy water supplies undrinkable. Many of those who oppose these fracking methods may have stronger legal legs to stand on, as the practice itself has gained some notorious national attention.
    The fracking (aka fracturing) process is designed to extract fossil-based energy sources that lie deep beneath the earth’s surface. Drilling is one thing, yet injecting toxic chemicals into the core in order to hit pay-dirt is another. The increased risk of chemical leakage is now clear and present, as literally thousands of drinking water contamination complaints have been filed against subsidiary drilling companies that actually have legal permits to use the Marcellus Shale drilling site; one case in particular involves felony criminal charges that are still pending.

    Exxon Mobil Corporation
    District Judge James G. Carn ruled that each of the eight charges recently filed against the oil giant were all valid enough to warrant criminal proceedings. Two of these charges included violating the state’s Clean Streams Law and the Solid Waste Management Act.
    Exxon Mobil is chiefly being accused of wastewater tank tampering; the removal of a plug from one of their refuse receptacles resulted in 57,000 gallons of the liquid seeping into the soil and subsequently causing harm to local residents and the surrounding strata. Contesting these charges, Exxon Mobil representatives asserted that the spill had “…no lasting environmental impact.”

    Range Resources
    The Pennsylvania Dept. of Environmental Protection (DEP) fined the Texas-based gas and oil company $4.15 million for employing the same illegal practices used by Exxon Mobil, all of which took place between 2009 and 2014. Range Resources repeatedly violated a number of the state’s environmental protection laws, yet the mishandling of wastewater topped the list of many fracking infractions committed at the very same Marcellus Shale drilling site. Even though the imposed fine is the largest in Pennsylvania DEP history, the profits made from these extractions heavily outweigh the penalty amount, which may simply be the price of doing business for big oil.

    These two incidents are merely a drop in the bucket when it comes to the fracking boom and its latent functions. Exxon Mobil is the first company to face criminal charges, which may turn out to be a benchmark case to be used as precedent for future criminal fracking violations. Hopefully future companies can learn from their example, and the example of good green practicing companies like Great Canadian which does green roofing in Edmonton. The future will be brighter when businesses can raise the standard of their practices and incorporate more beneficial green works.
  10. HannahWhittenly
    The short answer to the question, "Does the public have the right to protect its environment?" is a resounding yes. The efforts and the misfortune of people and their communities who experienced problems in Love Canal, New York and Hinkley, California near the end of the 20th century prompted the US Congress to pass specific laws that created specific rights for individuals and communities to ensure the public has access to both resources and recourse if there are dangers present.

    Exercising your Rights
    The key to exercising your environmental rights is to have an awareness of which resources are available to you and your community. That is normally accomplished by either approaching NGOs that focus on the environment and act as umbrella organizations for community efforts or working within your rights directly as a citizen and accessing government agencies and information provided by them. Environmental advocate Timothy G. Mara says citizens have every right to oppose threats to their environment and community. The right to protect one’s community can be asserted through the use of proper legal channels and persistent activism.

    Non-Governmental Organizations
    Although there are many advocacy groups for various rights, environmental organizations that exist solely to ameliorate specific complaints about the local environment are few and far between. One of the best ways to get connected with a regional or local group is to contact a well-known organization that works on behalf of your community. Greenpeace and The Southern Environmental Law Center are two examples of advocates that may be able to point you in the right direction, depending upon your need. You might also find it worthwhile to ask the local community college about references for building your own issue-oriented community advocacy group.

    Government Support
    The Environmental Protection Agency has long been a consumer advocate when it comes to monitoring and regulating environmental compliance vis-a-vis US environmental law. If you find that there is a violation or suspect one within your community, looking at their website will not only show you what your rights are, it will also provide you with information on actions that you can take—this is normally quite useful to the majority of people visiting. A lot of their focus has to do with the quality of the environment remaining in compliance with existing federal law.

    Online Resources
    There are a variety of online resources available that can help you to understand better the threat facing your community. To start with, all facilities that use chemicals or toxic substances in their manufacturing processes in your area are required to file MSDS or material safety data sheets with the government. You can access those sheets to find out what is being stored locally and may be contributing to the problem. You can also cross-reference what each substance might be doing to the environment by looking in the EPA Tri database.

    Overall, if you are concerned about a threat to your community environment, there are a lot of options available to you. Spending the time to organize a movement that will enforce your rights as a protector of your environment is never a waste.
  11. HannahWhittenly
    As the world's countries vie for the power source that will replace oil, many eyes are watching developments in geothermal heating. While seen as a great solution, many still wonder how sustainable it truly is.

    What is geothermal heating?
    Far beneath the outer crust of the earth lies ground that grows hotter and hotter as it approaches the molten core. This constant heat is harvested by pipes, where it flows through them much in the same way the current HVAC systems work. Many see it as a great contender for the next power source as it has a measured 300% efficiency.

    Why is it seen as a good resource?
    The main aspect keeping it in the public eye is the fact that it is always going. While wind farms and solar panels rely heavily on the weather, geothermal heat is always present, meaning mining facilities can simply turn their equipment on and off as energy needs change. Another reason is that it is accessible at every point on earth because the inner molten core radiates heat outward.

    Why is its sustainability in question?
    The reason for this is that the heat does get used up over time. Imagine a lake, for instance. During the summer, the water gets lower and lower as the heat evaporates what's there. It isn't until the sun gives way to the rainy season that the water levels return. Should there be less water than before, the lake levels will rise but never rise to what they once were. Over time, the lake will eventually disappear altogether. This is what happens with the geothermal heat albeit on a much faster timescale. Once production ceases, heat levels jump back up but never reach the levels they were initially at.

    Is it sustainable?
    Studies show an affirmative so long as certain regulations are met. These include the initial heat and fluid content and their regeneration rates, in addition to the rate of heat and fluid extraction. Basically, so long as we aren't taking up heat faster than the earth can produce it, the method is sustainable. Unfortunately, as humanity has shown time and time again, we are incapable of such regulation.

    At the moment, geothermal energy is proving to be very tempting as a sustainable resource, so long as we continue harvesting it with care. If we don't, there's no telling what harm we will cause when pockets of warm earth are depleted.

    Informational Credit to East Side Ventilation Ltd.
  12. HannahWhittenly
    In the process of being environmentally responsible, it's possible to see how your efforts are occasionally sabotaged. There are a number of things that can sabotage your sustainable habits, most are linked to poor quality and excess. Five of the most common include substandard products, frequent replacement of household and commercial fixtures, food waste, non-recyclables and hazardous items.

    Substandard Products Sabotage Sustainability
    Poor quality products sabotage sustainability by requiring frequent replacements. For example, poor quality insulation results in loss of proper heating and cooling retention in homes or commercial facilities.
    Check the "R" rating before purchasing insulation. This helps determine precise levels of insulating quality and properties of the product. A leaky roof, according to a specialist from T. Simpson Roofing, can actively sabotage sustainable indoor heating and cooling habits. To prevent this, roofing materials should be of highest quality to insure durability and longer wear. Roofs should be installed or replaced with an underlay of top quality protective roof sheeting between outer roofing materials like slate, asphalt, vinyl clad aluminum and other types of shingles.

    Products That Lack Quality
    When products purchased for use in homes or commercial facilities are manufactured from poor quality materials, they are replaced and repair with greater frequency. For example, the reason so many claw-footed bathtubs are still in existence today is that they were built to last virtually a lifetime. Today, tubs are manufactured to be replaced frequently. Surfaces become thinned from cleaning chemicals or due to surface chipping. Laundry equipment, furnaces, water heaters and computer equipment are also replaced more frequently. This sabotages sustainability when these items can't be recycled properly. Inevitably, they end up in landfills that do not complete the cycle of sustainability you strive for.

    Excess Sabotages Sustainability
    Buying in excess only adds to the lack of sustainability. Too often, high quantities purchased go unused, resulting in higher volumes of trash. This applies to clothing, food and household items. Food waste in the most developed countries is the reason many landfills cannot manage the enormous volumes of food that end up in the trash. Restaurants regularly throw out tons of food annually. A better method of sustainability would be for proper food waste disposal programs that create greater need for local composting centers.

    Non-recyclables and Hazardous Items
    Commonly used items can sabotage sustainable habits. Non-recyclables, like ordinary household cleaners and chemicals, enter local sewage systems and often result in runoff in soil after rain events. Hazardous items like flashlight batteries, car batteries and items that contain flammables and potentially explosive parts are other examples.

    To create substantial sustainability habits, always read labels on products purchased. Purchase higher quality materials that offer greater durability to avoid frequent replacements.
  13. HannahWhittenly
    Drastic climate change has pushed environmental concerns to the forefront of current affairs. Deforestation, pollution, and excessive use of limited natural resources has had a seemingly detrimental effect on the Earth, creating a great deal of concern for the fate of mankind should such conditions continue. Fortunately, hope does exist, as a widespread push for reducing consumption and pollution has continued to expand, lessening the likelihood of a dim future here on Earth.

    Going Green Equals Good Business Sense
    Recently, many companies have taken steps to go green, recognizing the many benefits that come from doing so. By taking steps to operate more efficiently and environmentally friendly, companies realize significant cost savings, as well as improved public relations, as people feel good about supporting companies operating in an ethical, morally sound manner.

    Who's Going Green?
    Numerous major companies are taking initiatives to go green, even while continuing to expand their customer base. The Bank of America claims to have reduced paper consumption by 32% between 2000 and 2005, and even offers employees cash incentives for purchasing hybrid vehicles.
    Beverage companies Anheuser-Busch and Coca-Cola have reduced millions of pounds in waste by creating bottles and cans that use less material and made largely from recycled goods.
    Car manufacturers, ranging from Honda to Land Rover, have developed new and improved vehicles that run more efficiently by reducing vehicle weight using lighter materials and using more efficient engines.
    Another example, is Kenmore, which has developed some of the most efficient boilers available on the market today, based on Energy Star ratings. According to Nationwide Boiler, more companies are getting more efficient models and trailer mounted boilers so they can travel with them.
    Other companies taking the initiative to go green include Hewlett-Packard, S.C. Johnson, Goldman Sachs, Continental Airlines, Target, Wal-Mart, and Dell, amongst many others.

    While there is still a long way to go before fully reversing the damage mankind caused on Earth thus far, improvements are indeed being made. In the wake of the recession, public opinion has become more important than ever for companies and environmental awareness is an excellent way to foster that. By taking steps to go green, companies gain consumer approval and trust by demonstrating good will and an effort to put the good of the public above huge profits. Not only does the company benefit from building positive relations amongst the public through environmental awareness, but there are significant cost savings that accompany such initiatives. Ultimately, companies taking steps to go green are creating a win-win situation for all involved.
  14. HannahWhittenly
    The best way to determine where your home is losing energy is to start with a careful walk-through to spot problems. Here we provide a few of the biggest but easiest tips for improving the energy efficiency of your home.

    Heat Loss
    If heat is escaping your home in cold weather, or cool air in summer months, that’s energy and money going to waste. A little extra insulation can improve energy savings anywhere from 5% to 30% per year. There are a few places you should check throughout your home to reduce energy loss. If you have an attic, make sure that the entrance to the attic is insulated too. Check existing insulation to make sure there are no gaps. Check doors and windows for air leaks. Foam or rubber weather stripping can be used to improve door seals, and caulking around window exteriors.

    Heating and Cooling Equipment
    Air filters should be replaced approximately every month or two to improve air quality and efficiency of air-flow. Visually inspect any ductwork you can. Look for dirt streaks, particularly at seams and joints. Use metallic duct sealant tape or duct compound to seal leaks. If your appliances are more than fifteen years old, a specialist from Shorty's Plumbing & Heating Inc recommends looking into replacing them with new, energy-efficient appliances. Savings from new appliances can recoup the original investment in just a few years. Tankless water heaters are especially beneficial in colder regions, only using energy to heat the water when you need it.

    Lighting
    Nearly ten percent of you electrical costs are due to lighting alone. You probably already know that changing your standard incandescent bulbs to compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) can reduce energy costs, but you might not know that the newer light-emitting diode bulbs (LEDs) are even more energy efficient and also achieve full brightness much more quickly than CFLs.

    Appliances
    We all know that appliances and electronics use a great deal of energy. What you might not know is that some appliances and electronics use power even when switched “off”. From televisions and computers to kitchen appliances, many major devices should be examined for passive electricity usage. Electricity usage monitors are available in most home improvement stores. They are easy to use and can measure the electricity usage of any 120 volt device.

    Remember, you don’t have to do it all at once! Small steps and a little maintenance can make a big difference in home energy savings.
  15. HannahWhittenly
    Building a new home can be quite an undertaking, and building a new green home even more so. There are many things to keep in mind, from where you should build to which building materials to use. But it's not an impossible task. By planning ahead, you can build your own green home. Here is a list of the five of the most common mistakes in green home construction, so you can avoid these familiar pratfalls and build the eco-friendly abode of your dreams.

    Choosing The Wrong Site
    If you don't select the correct building site, your project can be doomed from the start. Be careful building too far from "the beaten path." While an idyllic country manor may sound charming, building far away from local roads and utility lines can mean major headaches, as well as excessive costs and energy use. Also, building in a previously undeveloped area may disrupt the local flora and fauna.
    Another thing to keep in mind about site-selection is your potential home's exposure to sunlight. Harnessing solar energy is essential to the upkeep of a green home. A good site will have sunlight from roughly 9 AM to 3 PM. Your home should also face south, in order to maximize solar exposure.

    Building Too Big
    The larger the home, the more difficult and expensive. A green home should be built with practical needs kept in mind and grandiose plans kept in check. If you are building a house to live in for a long time, be sure to plan for not only your present needs, but any future needs which might arise.

    Inadequate Insulation
    Sufficient insulation will keep your heating costs reasonable. A well-insulated roof is essential to conserve heat and maintain cool. A specialist from Golden Windows Ltd says that eco-efficient windows and doors are essential to keeping both energy use and heating costs down in a green home. Unfortunately, home builders too often overlook the necessity of having efficient windows and homeowners are often stuck with the bill.

    Using the Wrong Materials
    In this case, "wrong" means materials that are not environmentally friendly. A green builder should use sustainable, non-toxic, recycled building materials, such as recycled lumber, natural products like bamboo and granite, and recycled glass.

    Choosing the Wrong Equipment and Appliances
    What's the point of building an eco-friendly home if you don't fill it with eco-friendly appliances? Anyone interested in maintaining a green home should research and buy the most eco-friendly products and appliances they can find.

    While building a green home may present unique challenges, it also offers unique advantages. As long as you plan ahead, and remember to avoid these common mistakes, your fantasy home could be your new, green home soon.
  16. HannahWhittenly
    Every year, more and more people are recycling, rather than discarding their garbage. However, that doesn’t mean there still is not work left to do. There are many places, groups of people and communities that could use a little help recycling. If your community is one such group, you can be proactive and help promote recycling on a community level.

    Decide Who Your Community Is
    The first step to promoting recycling is to decide who your community is. When you decide to promote recycling on a community level, you want to start small and be realistic. This helps ensure you reach everyone within that small group and ensure things are working before you extend your reach. If your bigger goal is to promote recycling to the entire school district, start by making your first goal one school. Once that school has mastered the program you are promoting, move on to another school.

    Make a Plan That Will Encourage Recycling In That Community
    After you have decided who exactly you are promoting recycling to, make a plan that encourages recycling within that community. For example, children at school may not know they should be recycling juice pouches. Raise awareness of this by putting up signs in the cafeteria. Or the school may not have recycling bins that are easily accessible to the children. Taking the time to buy and properly position these bins can encourage children within that school to recycle.

    Approach the Leaders of That Community
    Once you have a plan in place to encourage recycling within a specific community, approach the leaders of that community and find out how you can go about implementing your plan. Once again, take a look at the school example. You will want to talk to the principal and teachers to find out how you can go about buying recycling bins for the cafeteria or how you can let the children know more about recycling at their school.

    Put Your Plan Into Action
    The last step is to actually put your plan into action. This is usually the easiest step, because by now you have already taken the time to think your plan through and get input from leaders within the community you are promoting recycling to. However, this is also where any kinks will present themselves. So be prepared for some hiccups, but don’t let them deter you. Acting fast and being flexible will help you promote recycling in the best possible way to the community you are promoting to.

    If you have identified a group that could use a little help recycling, take the time to help that group. By focusing on a community, making a plan, approaching the leaders of that community and implementing your plan, you are doing your part to help the community and the environment.

    Informational Credit to Federal Metals Inc
  17. HannahWhittenly
    Metal recycling is a vitally important part of preserving the health of our environment. By recycling scrap metal, hundreds of millions of tons of metal waste is diverted from landfills. Oftentimes, metal is sent directly to production plants to immediately be made into new goods, with very little time needed for reprocessing. The following are a few reasons metal recycling is important for a greener future.

    Avoiding Resource Depletion
    Metal ores are considered a non-renewable resource. This means that once we mine all of the ore present in the Earth's crust, there is no more available for our use. Metal ores may take eons to form. This means that ore renewal is impossible in the scope of human existence. The more wisely we allocate the use of our natural resources, the less we must worry about exhausting the Earth's bounty.

    Reduced Amounts of Toxins
    Producing metals from raw ore requires the use of many caustic and toxic chemicals. When metals are recycled, the use of nearly all harmful substances is avoided. Water is the primary substance used in non-ferrous metal recycling, and is often returned to its original source cleaner than when it was discovered.

    Effective Use of Energy
    Refining ore requires high heat, which gobbles up electricity, coal and natural gas. By recycling scrap metal, large amounts of energy are saved. For example, if a person were to recycle 1 steel can per week, they would be saving enough electricity to power a 60 watt light bulb for over 24 hours! Recycling scrap metal allows us to conserve precious energy, reducing the harmful impact of electricity production upon the environment.

    Lowered Greenhouse Gas Emissions
    Recycling existing metal produces markedly less greenhouse gas emissions than processing raw ore. Aluminum, one of the most easily recyclable metals, can be recycled and put back into primary use within 60 days. According to a specialist from General Recycling Industries Ltd, recycling an aluminum soda can saves 92% of the energy that would have been used to produce a can from raw materials. This saved energy translates into lowered greenhouse gas production and pollution.

    Globally, citizens are becoming more aware and educated about the harmful impact industry and production has on the environment. Through recycling, we are discovering increasingly responsible ways to reuse materials in many manufacturing processes. Recycling is not only important for the greener future of our planet, it is essential to long-term economic sustainability.
  18. HannahWhittenly
    Carbon dioxide, a byproduct of fossil fuels, is the primary reason for global warming. Many initiatives designed to stop global warming center around reducing the planet’s reliance on fossil fuels and creating alternative energy. An example of this is laws that are being written encouraging governments and large businesses to put a limit on their carbon emissions. Businesses and governments that exceed their annual limit of carbon emissions will be required to pay for the excess gases they produce.

    Recycling and Clean Energy
    Other steps are being taken by the public at large. These include a shift in consumer buyer habits. More people are choosing to purchase products that were made using recycled materials, and that were created in factories using green energy. These include businesses that produce at least 50 percent of their energy using either wind, solar, or another source of clean energy.
    Additionally, homeowners are taking advantage of incentives provided by local utility companies as well as tax incentives set aside for individuals who use renewable energy in their home. Solar panel technology has taken amazing steps forward as has the energy storage capacity of batteries used in conjunction with these systems. Homeowners with installed solar panels and who have constructed wind turbines have even been able to sell some of their excess energy back to the utility company.

    Electric Automobiles
    Automobiles play a large role in creating the gases that contribute to global warming. More and more people are purchasing hybrids and plug-in hybrids that run on electricity and create less carbon emissions. Tesla has taken the idea of an electric vehicle and pushed it into the mainstream. Now other automotive companies, including Ford and Harley-Davidson, are producing energy efficient electric vehicles. In addition to taking steps against global warming, these companies are saving themselves money because an automobile that gets 40 miles to the gallon as opposed to 20 miles to the gallon, will save them approximately $3,000 a year in fuel costs.

    Landfill Gas
    More innovative programs have shown promise in slowing the effects of global warming. One of these includes the landfill gas collection system. Basically, this program is designed to capture the methane gases that are a natural product of decomposition of organic materials in landfills. Once this methane is collected and treated, it can be used to produce energy in combustion engines. Using landfill gas in this way has a twofold benefit. First, it minimizes the amount of methane that is released into the environment. Second, it provides an alternative source for combustible fuel.

    While there is much discussion about the source of global warming, it is almost universally accepted that it is occurring, so it’s not surprising that more and more individuals are turning to environmentally friendly sources of energy as a way to slow global warming’s process.
  19. HannahWhittenly
    If you've ever wondered where that old computer or other electronic device goes when you toss it in the dumpster, you might be surprised when you find out. While some are incinerated or wind up in landfill, others are exported to other continents. These are just a few of the places e-waste is ending up in the world.

    Landfills
    It was estimated by the EPA that almost 5 million tons of e-waste accounted for total landfill waste around the millennium. Electronics contain lots of hazardous chemicals that can easily contaminate the air and areas around it. While countries, such as many in Europe, ban the dumping of e-waste into landfills, others like Hong Kong allow it.

    Incinerators
    Incineration seems harmless until you think about all of the toxic content that's released into the air from e-waste. Cadmium, lead, and mercury all contaminate breathing air from e-waste being incinerated. As you look deeper into the ramifications and consequences, incineration is not such an effective method for disposal after all.

    Refurbishments and Reuse
    Rather than dumping off their electronics as waste, many people sell them to manufacturers so that they can be used in the future. Refurbishing is easily one of the best ways e-waste is disposed of because it provides more utility to the tossed product. The good news is that all of the computer or other device are reused by other people at some point, and harmful toxins aren't released back into the atmosphere.

    Recycling
    In some cases, the parts and metals inside computers and other electronics can be broken down for use in other ways. While this might seem like a viable solution for getting rid of e-waste, it comes with its drawbacks. Recycling can be dangerous, if it takes place in a scrapyard with no protocols in place for safety. Donating e-waste to a recycling plant is your best bet for disposal.

    Exportation
    You might be surprised to learn that e-waste is often exported to other countries for scrapping or basic dumping. This is highly illegal in some areas, yet the problem is so large that it goes uncontrolled for the most part. As the world continues to produce large amounts of e-waste, the mysterious question grows even more: What can the world expect to be done about e-waste disposal? Will countries keep incinerating, dropping it into landfills, or illegally exporting it to other areas of the world? Only time will tell.

    Informational Credit to STS Electronic Recycling
  20. HannahWhittenly
    Are you passionate about environmentally responsible practices and green living? Would you like to have a job that paid your bills while also helping to save the planet? Today’s colleges are focusing more and more on providing degrees that can work for the environment. Whether it’s a science research in declining species, to a technology degree to help with wind turbines, or even an online mba in management information systems, more degrees are being created with the world in mind. Below are four job options you might be interested in, and how to get involved in the environment with your degree and career.

    Solar Panel Installer
    The solar energy industry has been booming in recent years, and as the technology has improved and the supply and demand have increased, costs have dropped significantly. This has allowed homeowners and small businesses to have solar panels installed on their homes and buildings, and reduce their electric bills to mere pennies per month.
    Solar installation is becoming a very popular job, and installers can make pretty good money. In some cases, specialized training via tech schools is not even necessary, as some employers will offer paid on-the-job training for new installers.

    Wind Turbine Distributor
    Not only have solar panels become more popular over the past few years, now wind turbines are rising in popularity too. And we're not just talking about those massive, high tech windmill that dot the landscape out in the desert. We're talking about much smaller units purchased by homeowners to set up in their back yards.
    There are many companies out there now who are looking for distributors, so you don't necessarily have to work for the company who designs and installs the systems; instead, you can become an outside sales representative and work for commissions.

    Green Energy Auditor
    Energy auditors inspect homes and commercial properties, looking for ways to cut down on energy costs. They often focus on improving window and door insulation to reduce heating and cooling costs. They might also recommend lighting systems that could reduce electricity usage.
    These types of changes not only help their clients to save the planet and preserve precious natural resources; they also help them to save money by reducing their monthly electric, gas and water bills.

    Green Home Designers
    Green design elements are being incorporated more and more into home construction and design, allowing for some pretty interesting and fulfilling jobs as green architects and green interior designers.
    Green principles can be applied every step of the way, from using recycled building materials, double-paneled insulation in the walls, double-paned glass windows, low-watt CFC lighting systems, rain catch-water systems, skylights and more. What better way to show off your artistic creativity, do something good for your community and for the planet, and make a living at the same time?

    These are just a handful of options in the green job market, but these ideas barely scratch the surface. There are countless opportunities out there today, with more being created every year. This is a young industry with a lot of room for growth. Go for the gold and find a program or job that offers a little more satisfaction for your part in the environment.
  21. HannahWhittenly
    If the utility bills for heating your home are becoming outrageous, then it is time to take action by making a few changes. Just a few simple adjustments in a home can make a huge financial difference for families. The great thing about making many of these changes to your home is that there are also energy savings in hot weather during the summer while using air-conditioning.

    Yearly Furnace Maintenance
    Homeowners must make sure that climate control devices are maintained properly to reduce energy consumption. Change the filters in a furnace once a month to ensure heated air flows freely. Vacuuming or dusting the vents and ductwork in a home also helps to keep a home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. When heating equipment in a home is making strange sounds or odd odors, contact an expert technician for professional service.

    Add Insulation to a Home
    The best time to add insulation to a home is in the late spring or early autumn. First begin by inspecting the exterior of a building to find small holes and crevices near water pipes and utility lines. Place fiber insulating materials in the opening to prevent loss of climate controlled air. You can also place roll insulation tape inside a home on areas where air enters.

    New Doors and Windows
    An older home often has ancient single pane windows and flimsy doors that allow cold air to enter easily, leading to drafts. Manufacturers now make sturdy but attractive insulated doors and windows that help to prevent loss of climate controlled air year-round. Homeowners can now choose from an assortment of quality insulated windows and doors that are custom fitted to seal out cold or hot air.

    Cover a Home’s Water Heater
    It is possible to buy insulated covers for water heaters that are located in cold areas of homes. Because heaters are in unheated basements or utility rooms, the appliances must work harder to warm water and maintain its temperature. Water heater covers are inexpensive and easy to install but lead to a lifetime of energy savings.

    Additional Energy Savings
    There are additional ways to conserve energy in a home by adding carpeting or rugs to cold floors to prevent heat loss in the winter. Many homeowners turn down a furnace’s thermostat a few degrees in the winter while wearing additional clothing to stay warm in order to save money on heating bills.

    Informational Credit to Comfort King Windows & Doors Ltd
  22. HannahWhittenly
    Change Your Lights
    Try replacing five light fixtures that you use the most with fixtures that have the Energy Star label. Energy Star products help the environment by using less resources while significantly reducing energy costs. Although energy-efficient lighting fixtures use far less electricity than their less-efficient counterparts, they still provide the same bright light as traditional fixtures. Additionally, Energy Star products typically last 10 to 50 times longer than standard lighting fixtures.

    Heat And Cool Your Home The Smart Way
    Cooling and heating your home accounts for over 50 percent of your energy costs. In most cases, if you change your air filters often, you can lower your energy bill each month. Investing in a programmable thermostat is another simple, energy-saving solution. However, if you want to maximize your comfort and energy savings, you should consider hiring a licensed contractor annually to inspect your HVAC and heating units.
    To save even more money, ensure that your home is properly sealed and insulated. You can use weather stripping, caulk, and insulation to block any drafts and leaks. Insulation should be used throughout the home, but you must place a lot of it in the attic.

    Use Water Efficiently
    The process of pumping and heating water requires plenty of energy. To reduce greenhouse gas emissions, never let the water run while you brush your teeth. Also, if you have a leaky toilet, hire a plumber immediately, because you will waste about 200 gallons of water each day.
    Since water heaters use energy to heat water at various times throughout the day, you should replace your traditional unit with an energy-efficient unit. A tankless water heater is highly recommended, because it produces hot water on-demand, rather than wasting energy with a tank.

    Recycled Flooring
    Recycled carpet tiles are often made from ground nylon carpeting. Sustainable homeowners buy recycled carpets instead of new carpets, both for the environmental benefits of reuse and the
    Recycled rubber is a great flooring material that is very durable. Many families choose this kind of flooring because the material is stain-resistant. Whenever the floor becomes dull, it can be polished quickly with a water-soluble wax emulsion. For daily cleaning, you will only need a mop and a bucket of clean water.

    If you implement a few basic procedures and use the proper flooring, you can save money and help the environment.

    Informational Credit to Chilliwack Carpet One Floor & Home
  23. HannahWhittenly
    Corporations that alter their business practices to be more environmentally friendly have a lot to gain. Besides the many benefits to the environment, going green can provide an excellent boost to a company’s public image and reduce its energy costs.

    Employee Shuttles/Car Pool Benefits
    By offering car pool benefits, a business can encourage their employees to reduce the company's carbon footprint. Some businesses offer as little as a prime parking space, while others pad employees’ checks with a bonus when they agree to carpool. There are some large businesses that are able to provide employee shuttles to transport their workers to their place of business without the big environmental impact of multiple vehicles traveling back and forth each business day.

    Reduce Waste
    Providing recycling containers is just one way a business can help encourage its employees to think green. Reducing the amount of waste that ends up in these containers is the better way to be environmentally conscious. Many companies are finding ways to run paperless; or at least greatly reduce the unnecessary use of paper products. This is also a wonderful way to reduce the cost for these types of wasted office supplies. If paper is necessary, consider using recycled goods that can continue to be recycled so that the paper does not end up in a landfill. Another idea is to provide reusable coffee mugs and water containers and encourage employees to use them instead of disposable foam or plastic ones.

    LED Lighting
    Changing over to LED lighting in a large office building may seem like a big investment at first, but the energy savings produced over the years will more than make up for the money spent up-front. LED bulbs are energy efficient, last longer, and do not contain toxic mercury sometimes found in CFL bulbs.

    Programmable Thermostat
    One easy way for a business to conserve energy is to use a programmable thermostat. Many people fail to use their thermostat correctly or don't bother to learn how to program it. When the thermostat is set so that energy is being conserved at times a business is not occupied, such as during holidays or weekends, it can significantly reduce the energy bill. According to an expert from Kele, these can reduce a businesses’ heating costs by about 25%, when used correctly. Many energy companies offer lowered rates when certain hour restrictions are respected, so this may be another way to conserve energy and increase profits.

    With a little research and education about sustainable business practices, employers can save energy and money while still running a profitable company. There are many small changes that businesses can make to produce a big difference in the environment.
  24. HannahWhittenly
    Today’s media is filled with conversations about corporations and communities going green and reducing their carbon footprint. As well as trying to reduce our carbon footprint, another large reason for people jumping on the “going green” bandwagon is that our non-renewable resources are becoming too expensive. As a homeowner, here are five simple ways that you can help reduce your home’s environmental impact, all the while lowering your living costs.

    Unplug When Not in Use
    Believe it or not, you can save a lot of money on your electric bill just by simply unplugging your electronics. According to Energy Star, the average American household spends almost $200 a year to power appliances that are actually turned off. So, if you are not using the toaster, coffee pot, or kettle…unplug them!

    Buy Energy Efficient
    When choosing new appliances for your household, go with a brand that is labeled as being energy efficient. Switch out your regular light bulbs for CFL light bulbs. This will not only lower your electricity consumption, but your electric bill as well. Using less electricity leads to reduced pollution, protecting air quality.

    Cool Your Home Naturally
    The sun’s rays heat the house as they penetrate the window panes. By closing the curtains, you can reduce the amount of heat filtering in from the sun. This will naturally reduce the internal temperature of your home and therefore lessen the amount of time your air conditioning unit will have to run.

    Line Dry
    It takes approximately 900 pounds of coal to run an electric clothes dryer for a year—and that’s just for one household. Line drying your clothes will save you approximately $120 a year in electric costs, but will save the environment so much more.

    Eco-Friendly Insulation
    Eco-friendly alternatives to insulation include materials such as cotton, wool, cork, and recycled plastic. Most natural materials are sustainable, renewable, and can be produced at a fraction of the cost of their manufactured counterparts. According to a specialist from Reitzel Insulation Co Ltd, eco-friendly insulation alternatives are generally chemical-free, yet still possess the same insulation capabilities as fiberglass.

    As a society, we have been trying to produce a more sustainable, greener alternative to our lifestyle of the past in order to prevent any further ecologic damages. By simply unplugging unused appliances, line drying clothes, using different light bulbs, and switching to eco-friendly insulation materials you can largely reduce your home’s impact on the environment.
  25. HannahWhittenly
    Now more than ever before, people are looking for sustainable and renewable sources of energy. Recent events on the world scene have made it very clear that Western reliance on fossil fuels puts many nations in a position where they can easily be manipulated by the oil-producing countries of the world. Any small political change or revolution in an oil-producing country is felt in the pocketbooks of average consumers around the world when they fill up their gas tanks. All of these facts have made more and more people clamor for greener energy. Some have pointed to nuclear energy as the best “green” option. But is it fair to call nuclear energy “green energy”?

    What Is Meant by "Green Energy"?
    When people talk about green energy, they are talking about sources of energy that leave little to no carbon footprint. They have little to no negative effect on the environment. They use little to no natural resources. Included in the list of green energies are things like wind energy, hydro energy and ethanol. Many, however, are reluctant to throw in nuclear energy on this list, despite a compelling argument for defining nuclear power as green energy.

    Nuclear Energy Is a “Clean” Source of Energy
    The first reason why is because nuclear power is readily available. It is inexpensive to generate, when not bogged down with excessive government regulations. Nuclear energy does not create polluting gases, and nuclear energy will release absolutely nothing into the atmosphere. This means that there will be no sulfur, no carbon monoxide and no contaminants. Creating nuclear energy requires a relatively small area of land, when compared with other renewable sources of energy, such as wind and solar energy. For example, a nuclear reactor that sits on 300 acres of land can provide energy to a city of 2 million homes. To get the same output, reports an alternative energy specialist with an online Environmental Management degree, from solar or wind energy would require tens of thousands of acres of land.

    What about Nuclear Waste?
    Some counter with safety concerns about nuclear waste. These concerns are often exaggerated—for every individual whose energy needs are met by nuclear power, the amount of nuclear waste produced is about the size of a can of soda and can be safely contained and stored.

    Is Nuclear Energy Safe to Produce?
    Safety concerns are also exaggerated. Since the introduction of nuclear power plants in the United States, not a single individual has died as a result of a nuclear power accident. However, in just four years, almost 700 individuals died producing energy from fossil fuels in the United States.
    The arguments for nuclear energy are compelling—in every way nuclear power meets the benchmark for being considered a green source of energy.
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