Green Shelter

Office Buildings: Owners Using New Warning System

2013-04-12T14:47:00.001-07:00

In light of terrorist attacks, anthrax scares and similar threats, office building owners are now faced with a daunting task - keeping their buildings safe and secure.

As today's offenders become more sophisticated, it is crucial to consider different emergency scenarios and implement effective procedures in order to remain safe.

Simple measures, such as installing more fire alarms and surveillance cameras, incorporating metal detectors and directing emergency evacuation drills help keep buildings safe.

However, many experts are still finding gaps in guidelines and procedures, especially when it comes to communicating with building occupants and emergency responders.

Since lines of communication can be lost during an emergency, building managers are increasingly adopting an innovative new alert system called the Immediate Response Information System, or IRIS.

Developed by TechRadium Inc., IRIS is a state-of-the-art, high-speed response system that sends emergency messages to thousands of people at a time.

Using any phone or Internet-connected computer, a designated individual sends a message in both voice and text format. IRIS then transmits the message to building managers, occupants and emergency responders. Within seconds, the system sends the alert through a variety of frequently used electronic devices: home and cell phones, e-mail accounts, pagers, fax machines and PDAs.

Users can pre-select any of the 10 language options. IRIS repeats transmissions to individuals until their message is received.

As a communication alert system, IRIS also is capable of sending important non-emergency information, such as building maintenance plans and adverse weather condition reports.

Eco-Friendly Construction Trends

2013-04-09T14:40:00.001-07:00

Following green building practices is one of the ways to go green. As a lot of emphasis is laid on sustainability and energy-efficiency, the construction firms want to spare no effort in effectively meeting the growing demands of customers. To get the LEED certification, constructors and builders need to follow certain standards that have been set forth, so that proper materials are used for building purposes. Thus, they are now building houses with "green" consciousness in mind. Some of the eco-friendly construction trends, being followed by these companies, are outlined below.
When building a bathroom, they make sure to put together a nice and energy-saving set up. Bathroom accessories are also chosen very wisely. Smart and low flow toilets are installed, which not only save water but also look very attractive. In fact, this would also provide great relief to the areas where scarcity of water is a serious issue during hotter months of the year. Builders are also taking good care of decreasing energy usage in other parts of the house. Installing solar panels on the roof is a good example of this.
Builders, today, have become much smarter when choosing the materials which go into the whole construction process. They are seeking building materials which are good for environment. Thus, they pick raw materials that can retain heat and reduce energy consumption. The best part is that all these materials release fewer harmful gases and detrimental waste in the environment. Structural insulated rim boards and insulated panels fit well here and this is the reason, why they are highly used in most of the homes, built recently.
The best constructors and builders combine all elements of latest style with environmental concerns, so as to come up with the best product. Since, today home buyers are more eco-conscious than a few years ago, cost-effectiveness is not the only thing that they look for. They want to use green options throughout the construction process, right from selecting the kitchen equipment to deciding about the material for flooring. Instead of opting for technologically sound raw materials, materials that are recyclable are being considered.
"Green building", a term used for describing the construction of eco-friendly buildings, has therefore become extremely popular. Moreover, the fact that costs involved in green building practices are only two or three percent higher than the amount that goes into a conventional dwelling, makes it a much better option. Not to mention, the long-term benefits offered by a sustainable design, mainly because green buildings are likely to conserve more electricity and water. So, even if they are slightly pricier to build, they would eventually save you a lot of money by conserving energy and water in the long run. If you want to make the most of eco-friendly construction trends, then make sure the builder or constructor you choose employs only green building practices. Also, feel free to give your own suggestions regarding the materials or products to be used during the construction of your new house.

Reference: Shruti_S_Sharda

Why You Should Go for Eco-Friendly Furniture

2012-07-07T13:32:00.002-07:00

Being eco-friendly is not a trend, it is a need. By purchasing environmentally accessible products, we avoid deforestation, process that has such a massive effect on climate change that Indonesia and Brazil are now the third and fourth largest emitters of carbon dioxide on the planet.

Until now, our economies have been based on consumer spending which does not necessarily result in sustainable growth. It is time to make our purchasing decisions on how durable and Earth- friendly an item is. Organic sustainable furniture is a great choice for a modern home and for people who are interested in living their lives with as little environmental impact as possible.

What is organic sustainable furniture? Organic generally means that an item has been produced without the use of man-made chemicals. That means that any fabric or stuffing used to make a piece of furniture was made with fibres grown without the use of chemical herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers. Additionally, the production of the piece itself did not add chemical flame retardants or other chemicals to the mix. Sustainable products are those products providing environmental, social and economic benefits while protecting public health, welfare, and environment over their full commercial cycle, from the extraction of raw materials to final disposition.

Sustainable forest management will help us to maintain the health of the ecological systems of the land on which it is planted, including protection of soil, water and biodiversity.The development of an eco-friendly timber and furniture industry is essential to ensure that natural resources will be available for future needs. The use of environmentally friendly products helps us to maintain biological diversity; regulate forest productive capacity; protect forest ecosystem health and vitality, and contribute to carbon cycles. Besides natural, cultural, social and economic benefits, there are health benefits. After all, organic eco accessible furniture has been done from non toxic, renewable materials. Furniture done from poisonous substances can start an indoor air peculiarity badly. Everyone should be conscious of the kinds of chemicals they bring home, but especially if you have kids, pets, or other family members who are low to the ground and prone to licking things. With eco accessible seat we can be certain which a production routine didn't mistreat a surroundings in any way.

Most people think about organics when it comes to organic foods or even clothing but they don't often think about things like mattresses, paint and furniture that can also be purchased in more organic and sustainable forms.

Being eco-friendly does not need a great effort. We're all trying to do the right thing across our countries. We recycle bottles, paper and cans, we bring reusable shopping bags to the grocery, and we even buy fuel-efficient cars. Basically, most of us know the routines and are very diligent about making a difference. We should start having the same approach when we buy house hold furniture. So, the next time that you buy a table or a garden furniture set make sure that it has been manufactured in a eco-friendly way.

Reference: Sandra_Vera

Why India Should Invest in New Green Technologies in Their Buildings

2012-07-04T15:19:00.000-07:00

"Climate change and water scarcity threaten India's economy, one of the fastest growing in the world."

I researched recently that the country has 16 percent of the world's population, but only four percent of its water resources - how can we make this sustainable?"

"In India, buildings are responsible for 4.9% of total GHG, If per capita water availability is any indication, 'water stress' is just beginning to show in India. Beside energy the second most critical issue concerning the building sector, governments, consumers and environmentalists today is possibly water. Infact, water use in buildings accounts for almost 20 per cent of the total water use, which is significant. Hence the Indian construction industry needs to consider where and how they can protect the vibrant Indian economy. In particular, do we need to consider new green technologies?

Buildings in India are prone to many health problems such as:-

•Molds,
•Extreme hot condition
•Waste of energy

The impact is often high electricity bills and occupant's complaining of health problems due to internal environmental quality. "

Children, elderly people, and people with breathing problems, allergies, and lung diseases are particularly susceptible to disease-causing biological agents in the indoor air.

Buildings in India are prone to many problems. Research provides the following interesting such as:-

•The World Health Organisation estimates that up to 30% of new and remodeled buildings worldwide may be subject to excessive complaints related to indoor air quality.

•Air conditioning systems in commercial buildings consume about 60-65\% of the total energy as compared to various other end uses.

Sustainable buildings can provide:

•Improved learning by students
• greater productivity in workers
• Faster healing by patients.
• Have Higher Market Value

Both residential and commercial buildings retain a high resale value if they include sustainable design components. The value to prospective buyers comes from knowing their utility and maintenance costs will be lower in green buildings that outperform non-green buildings. Occupancy levels are consistently higher, and vacancy rates lower, in sustainable office buildings.

Understandably, it is these measurable benefits, rather than a general sense of well-being, energy conservation resulting in saving money and improved internal environmental quality for better living and good for the environment these can be achieved by implementing green technology in our buildings. India still to capitalize the benefits of green technology as other countries are already using it in their buildings for instance USA, Australia.

On the financial side, going green will save everyone tons of money. The price of electricity will keep going up as oil supplies shrink. As a hedge against rising electric bills it would be wise to invest in green technology today. Plus an additional benefit will be cleaner air. There are still coal plants around and despite the advancements in technology they remain a pollution factor today. Green technology in the form of solar power could result in a tremendous reduction in the need for coal power plants

Energy saving lightbulbs are a great example of green technology that can be installed in every house in the world, easily. The aim of green technology is to make peoples' lives better without compromising on quality of life.

Examples of green technology subject areas

Energy
Perhaps the most urgent issue for green technology, this includes the development of alternative fuels, new means of generating energy and energy efficiency.

Green building
Green building encompasses everything from the choice of building materials to where a building is located.

Environmentally preferred purchasing
This government innovation involves the search for products whose contents and methods of production have the smallest possible impact on the environment, and mandates that these be the preferred products for government purchasing.

Green chemistry
The invention, design and application of chemical products and processes to reduce or to eliminate the use and generation of hazardous substances.

Time has come to gain from the immense possibilities of Green technologies which will ultimately provide solutions to the entire problem we discussed above.

Sustainable buildings operate from seven simple principles
Sustainable building will:

1.Harvest all their own water and energy needs on site.
2.Be adapted specifically to site and climate and evolve as conditions change.
3.Operate pollution-free and generate no wastes that aren't useful for some other process in the building or immediate environment.
4.Promote the health and well-being of all inhabitants, as a healthy ecosystem does.
5.Be comprised of integrated systems that maximise efficiency and comfort.
6.Improve the health and diversity of the local ecosystem rather than degrade it.
7.Be beautiful and inspire us to dream.

Benefits of Green Building

Environmental benefits

•Reduce the impacts of natural resource consumption

Economic benefits

•Improve the bottom line

Health and safety benefits

•Enhance occupants comfort and health

Community benefits

•Minimize strain on local infrastructures and improve quality of life

We talked about water scarcity which is not only a concern for India but for entire world. So what are we doing for that? The answer is we can certainly look for ways to save water and make optimum utilization of what we have right now. The reason why there is hype for green technology is it's always emphasizes on creating resources and minimum wastage of energy.

If we can reduce the water consumption in the building construction then it can definitely be used in other activities and it should be collective effort.

India has always played a significant role in the global arena. Whether it's growing economy, world's largest democracy and seriousness about environment. Then it is imperative that world should also recognise India's effort for sustainable living. India needs to consolidate its stand on promoting green technologies. And for that government can provide financial assistance to people or organisations to encourage and create awareness about green technologies. India is already doing its bit to save water and other environment friendly measures. Ministry of environment is also seeking assistance from Indian corporate sector to come up with innovative ideas to save the environment. I think we are on the right track and we just need to create more awareness about the biggest threat the world is facing now which is global warming. As we say there is never a wrong time for the right thing so we can certainly give back something to our mother earth.

Resources: Indu_Kant_Mishra

What Is Eco-Design?

2012-07-01T15:41:00.002-07:00

Going green is one of the biggest trends to hit the market in many, many years. In fact, even after being on the market for several years now, this trend has not died down, but rather has been gathering steam. It's even starting to affect a number of different aspects of our lives from our food to our clothes and even our interior design. Eco-design is just one of many new 'going green' trends affecting the interior design world.

What is Eco-Design?
Despite the seemingly "new" term, eco-design has been around for more than a decade now. However, some enthusiasts may argue that it has been around for even longer than that, but only just now are people getting into this trend. In short, eco-design is a type of interior design in which the design focuses around environmentally friendly elements.

This can be as wide spread as every single element, material and decorating ideas that go into the house, or it can be as simple as a few select objects, elements or otherwise within the home.
For example, let's look at eco-design in living room designs. The space could be designed using reclaimed wood floors. The throw rug could be made from bamboo. The furniture is antique, thrift store or hand-me-down, though it could also be manufactured with newer, more environmentally friendly methods. All of the home accessories, such as the vases, throw pillows and so forth, are made from reclaimed materials, 'green' materials or are hand-me-downs, antiques or thrift store finds as mentioned before.

The television uses less energy than previous models and may even have an Energy Star rating. The lamps too as well as the other light fixtures, feature an Energy Star rating and also use compact fluorescent light bulbs, or CFLs. In short, every single element of these living room designs are in some way, environmentally friendly. This is eco-design in an extreme and devoted fashion.

However, it is also important to note that not every single element of the room must be "eco-friendly" in order for the room or home to be considered a type of eco-design. In fact, if you were to have just a single reclaimed piece of furniture or an antique piece of furniture, it may be classified as eco-design. In fact, if you don't replace your existing furniture or you sell it at a garage sale, it may be considered eco-design.

Eco-design can also refer to the materials that went into building your home, not just in the interior design. The windows, the dry wall and so forth. It can also refer to a practice known as daylighting, in which windows and skylights are used together to maximize daylight in a space to reduce dependency on artificial light.

This is because eco-design is all about finding alternative elements to incorporate into your existing interior design. It is not necessarily about having an entirely environmentally friendly space. Sometimes it is the little things that make all the difference, especially when it comes to our decorating ideas, our remodeling ideas and the various room designs throughout our homes.

Reference: Mob_Jarrock

How To Choose Green Home Insulation

2012-07-01T15:34:00.000-07:00

Today, there is no denying the impact that modern society is having on the environment. The propensity for an energy intensive lifestyle is reaping damage on a planetary scale. If you are genuinely concerned about your household's energy usage, and are looking for affordable ways of creating a smaller carbon footprint, it can be of value to explore how you can better insulate your home with green material.
Most people are aware that home insulation is inherently green as it helps to save energy. Through minimizing heat transfer, there is less of a need to use heaters and AC units, thus reducing energy consumption. The problem with most materials used to insulate a home is that they can be potentially toxic and are very difficult to dispose of. Green home insulation involves the use of materials that are either non-toxic, made from natural sources, or recycled. There are a number of interesting and practical alternatives to regular insulation products.

Recycled denim may not immediately spring to mind when thinking about insulating your walls and attic space but it is a material that is used for this very purpose. Old jeans are not required, the material is actually scraps left over from the manufacturing process. It is a great way to find a use for what would otherwise have been discarded.

Wool is another option that is both renewable and natural. In fact. Wool has been used since time immemorial to insulate buildings. Though it is flame retardant, it can be prone to insect infestation. To help prevent this problem, wool should be treated with a substance that acts as a deterrent to insects.
Another interesting material that can be used is cellulose, and primarily in the form of recycled newspaper. Cellulose is a great option as it is available widely, is affordable, and has excellent insulating properties. If you are to use recycled newspaper, make sure that the material has been treated in such a way to make it fireproof.

When comparing green insulation materials, it is important to study the R-value of each option. This is a measurement of resistance to heat flow. Most material is rated from R-1 up to R-60, with the higher values being the most efficient. The R-value of fiberglass, wool, and cellulose are actually quite similar. If choosing a material with a low value, there would be a need to have a greater depth to achieve the desired results.

Reference: Paul_J_James

Green House Gases and Their Contribution to Global Warming

2012-06-28T10:46:00.000-07:00

Green house is a structure used to grow crops such as;

Tomatoes
Sweet pepper
Celery, cucumber
Cabbages
Kales
Onions
Spinach
Tissue culture bananas and strawberry among others.

The structures modify the weather and provide adequate crops growing conditions, protection from pest and diseases and adverse weather. They vary with some made of sophisticated materials such as transparent glass or heavy duty to polythene sheets or simply constructed using wood, polythene sheets and insect net with locally available materials. This depends on the purpose of use and economic returns of the enterprise.
Green house production has enormous benefits and advantages which make it worth the investment. The benefits include time spent on labor is less since the area under production is small, productivity is high and done throughout the year, better control of pest and diseases, efficient water use and maximum utilization of land. It is also important to note that crops grown in mature slightly earlier. It allows sunlight to pass through and warms the ground inside the green house. It works by isolating air inside the structure so that the heat is not inside the structure so that the heat is not lost by convection. Air is confined within the house and prevents convective cooling; referred to as green house effect.
Green house gases are atmospheric gases that contribute to the effect by absorbing infrared radiation thus producing solar warming of the earth's surface. They include;

Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Methane (CH4)
Nitrous oxide (NO2)
Water vapor among others.

Although green house gases occur naturally in the atmosphere, the eminent levels especially of carbon dioxide and methane that have been pragmatic in recent decades are directly correlated, human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels and the deforestation of tropical forests. Rising concentration levels of these in the atmosphere outcome in increase of global temperature referred as global warming. Global warming is mainly caused by human influence due to emissions from;

Land cultivation
Industrial activities
Fossil fuel ignition
Cutting down trees
Cement
Ozone depletion
Plate tectonics solar
Output, orbital variations
Volcanism and ocean variability

The effect of global warming are visible due to rise in the sea level, changing model of precipitation, expansion of subtropical deserts, frequency and intensity of tremendous weather events such as famine, heavy shower, extinctions of some genus and irregular weather.
Global warming is climate change and it is at the top of the world debate agenda. The debates center on options to mitigate and adaption climate change. Mitigation focuses on initiative of green schemes as carbon sinks, energy supply, transportation, industry and agriculture geared to reducing further emissions from green houses. Scientist are developing innovations such as carbon trading, green water credits, focus on renewable such solar, wind, geothermal and biofuels plus other economic incentives. Africa faces the greatest risk from the effects of global warming while its emissions have been small compared to the developed world.

Reference: Sylvia_Mburugu

Wind Turbines - The Positives

2012-06-26T14:25:00.003-07:00

Wind is one of those elements of our weather system which has not benefited greatly from Human technology in recent years. When compared to the Sun and Rain, for example Wind lags behind in terms of resources identified to it.

One innovation that has seen various strides, whether backwards or forwards, is Wind Turbines. For years we have struggled to recognise the power of Wind but we now seem close tom capitalising on its qualities through the introduction of Wind Turbines.
Wind has been used in the past to power irrigation, such as the use of windmills but this practice has almost entirely disappeared due to reservoirs and pumps becoming more efficient and cost-effective.
Nowadays it is not much different in concept to windmills but generates electricity rather than water through mechanical parts.

The appearance of Wind Turbines in certain countries is both comforting and encouraging. The positioning of the turbine is paramount before installing as various and in-depth studies have to be performed in order to assess the best position to place it. So far, the best locations appear to be out at sea, close to the shoreline or on higher ground. This is because the wind speed is generally stronger in these locations.
Islands, such as the UK, are exposed to more wind than other countries but still do not use the full potential of Wind Turbines to generate electricity. The UK has at its disposal at least 40% of Europe's net wind total energy. Presently, it uses only around 0.5% of this potential to generate electricity.
For local families wanting to invest in a wind turbine for domestic use, there needs to be some positive changes plus re-assurances from the local authorities that this trend is set to change the future of electricity. Not enough has been done so far in this respect.

Strangely enough, wind is created by none other than the Sun, whose heat is picked up by the air over land. When the temperature increases hot air rises allowing cooler air to replace it. This is how wind is generated.
The concept with which Wind Turbines works lies within the secret of its rotary blades. The wind deflects off the blades and transfers its own energy onto it, allowing it to power a turbine which then generates electricity.
There are two main types of turbines - those whose rotor blades turn horizontally and those that turn vertically.

Reference: Mark_A_Dalton

Building Green - Eco-Friendly Construction Materials

2012-06-26T13:53:00.004-07:00

When it come to building a house, for most people it will be the single biggest footprint that you will ever make in this world, so here 5 ways to make that footprint a little bit smaller.
*Bamboo-- has made it's way to the top of the alternative flooring choices. Bamboo is also used for fencing decking even plywood sheets are being produced. Bamboo is a grass and quickly grows back after it is cut, as every lawn owner knows.
*Native Stone-- Foundations and walls can be built with stone or rock. Find the closest source of rock, a local quarry or better right off your own land. The savings is in the short transport.
*Log Home-- I built my own by collecting dead standing trees for around my town. I put up a sign that said "Wanted dead standing trees" and if the tree could be used then I would fell and deliver them to my home site. eventual I had enough to build the house.
*Yurt-- These are round canvas houses. They can be considered temporary and therefor fall under less stringent building codes. This would be a great alternative home for a place like Hawaii, yurts are known to be safe in earthquakes.
*Cobb-- Cob or cobb is a building material consisting of clay, sand, straw, water, and earth it is also inexpensive. You can use it to create walls with windows, seats, alcoves and more. To make Cobb subsoil is mixed with straw and water. The earthen mixture is applied onto a stone foundation to form the walls in courses and packed down.

Reference: Richard_Reames

Joining The Debate on Solar Panels: Are They Really Worth It?

2012-06-25T14:55:00.000-07:00

Solar power has been around for decades, but it has failed to become widely popular. This will change as energy prices continue to rise and oil reserves dwindle. Purchasing solar panels is a big decision that should be made appropriately. The first step is to weigh the pros and cons of this important investment.
Before any decision is made, those looking to purchase a solar power system must consider the area they live in. Some local governments charge fees or taxes for the use of large equipment. Also, cities and towns have zoning laws that may require inspection of the property in question. This is to insure that installation can be conducted safely.

The greatest advantage that solar power provides is cheap running costs. Most solar panels are guaranteed to last for 40 years, which is longer than any loan will take to pay off. After the initial investment, electricity is virtually free. On top of that, since there are no moving parts, very little maintenance is required. Cleaning the panels annually is all that is needed.
Incentives are another great reason to invest in solar power. Many energy companies offer credit for electricity that is sold back to them. Also, most governments give tax breaks to those who use renewable energy or buy energy-efficient appliances.
Another reason to go with solar power is for the independence it provides. There is no need to worry about power lines falling down, transformers blowing up, or blackouts. People who make the switch will also help reduce the worlds' dependence on non-renewable oil.
The last advantage is for the planet. Solar power doesn't pollute or emit greenhouse gases, so it doesn't contribute to global warming. It's clean, efficient, quiet, and renewable. What more could Mother Nature ask for?

The biggest drawback to solar panels is the upfront cost and installation. Depending on energy needs, prices can shoot up very fast. Households consume anywhere between 800 to 1500 kilowatts per month. The initial outlay in cost is well into the several thousands in pounds, euros or dollars and unless people are routed to their property they may never see the cost be outweighed by free electricity. Another issue is the large footprint panels need to generate enough electricity to power a house. This creates a problem for people who live on small areas of land.

Mother Nature can create a disadvantage in the efficiency of solar energy. Night-time, snow, rain, and clouds are all variables that can hinder power generation. This can be helped by having a battery to store energy for future use. However, persistent bad weather will cause stored energy to run out. Purchasing a battery and inverter can potentially raise the cost of the entire system by thousands of pounds as well.
Deciding on solar energy is very hard. It can be expensive, but financial incentives can help reduce the high price. Batteries will provide protection from power outages and inclement weather. Electric bills will be a thing of the past, and it's healthy for the environment. To the point, solar power is a long-term solution where the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages.

Reference: James_F_Pilkington

Solar Heat Pumps Explained

2012-06-23T08:11:00.001-07:00

Usually when you think of solar hot water, solar panels and a collector tank installed on a roof spring to mind - a traditional solar hot water system.
A solar heat pump is a different way to use renewable energy to heat water - that doesn't need solar panels! Solar heat pumps can save you a bundle of cash on your hot water bills, as they use approximately one third the energy of an electric water heater.

How does a solar heat pump work?
A solar heat pump is a little like a reverse refrigerator. It transfers the heat in the air outside of the unit to the water stored inside the heater through a heat exchange system. In the case of solar heat pumps, "heat" is a relative term as they will still work in very cold conditions - at least -10 degrees Celsius, so it will still be generating hot water for you during winter nights. How is that possible?
Here's the basic process:
* External air is drawn into the solar heat pump system via a fan into an evaporator containing a special type of refrigerant, which is stored in piping. The refrigerant used is called R134a, which isn't a CFC, so it doesn't negatively affect the earth's ozone layer.
* R134a has an evaporation or boiling point of -26°C; whereas water has a boiling point of 100°C. So temperatures that feel very cold to us are still more than enough to make the refrigerant "boil". The air that's been drawn into the system, which is far warmer than the refrigerant, turns the refrigerant from a liquid into a gas inside the solar heat pump's piping.
* A compressor then pumps the now gaseous refrigerant through a small valve, which compresses it; and as a result of the process generates a great deal of heat.
* A heat exchanger transfers the heat from the heated refrigerant gas pipes to a tank where water is stored.
* The temperature of the refrigerant has now dropped dramatically as the heat has been drawn away, so it returns to a liquid state and the solar heat pump cycle begins again.

Benefits of a solar heat pump
* Massive savings in hot water related expenses over the long term
* A solar heat pump produces between 3 - 5 times the amount of renewable energy than electricity required to power the unit.
* It's an environmentally friendly hot water option given the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions through less energy requirements.
* A solar heat pump is effective even in low temperatures. In extreme cold, an electric assist is activated to ensure the water stays at the desired temperature
* No roof space or solar panels needed
* Ease of installation as a solar heat pump uses the same connections as a electric hot water system.

How much does a solar heat pump cost?
The price varies depending upon your needs and location, but you can expect to pay up to a few thousand dollars. However, the cost can be greatly offset as renewable energy rebates provided by many governments may apply. These rebates can be substantial, so talk to a solar heat pump specialist for the best advice on the type of equipment you'll need and any incentives programs that might be applicable.

Reference: Michael_Bloch

Solar Water Pumping - Enormous Cost Savings

2012-06-19T14:45:00.002-07:00

The recent dramatic increases in the price of oil have hit almost everyone. Gas and diesel are vastly more expensive, and that in turn causes the price of electricity to rise as well. With oil being a finite, non-renewable resource, increased use of renewable forms of energy such as wind, geothermal, hydro and solar is once again a hot topic. I say "once again" because we were there in the 1970s but didn't learn our lesson. As soon as oil prices came down, so did our resolve to use and pursue more sustainable energy sources. No one argues the benefits of solar power, but putting it to use generally required complicated connections to the utility grid. That's becoming more common, but there's another way to use solar that makes a whole lot of sense, and that is solar water pumping.

Let's think about this for a moment. The huge advantage of solar power is that it is free and inexhaustible. The disadvantage is that it's only available when the sun shines. Theoretically you could use solar power to charge giant batteries so that electric energy would be available whenever you need it, but that is not practical. But how about putting solar to use in areas where it doesn't matter when the work gets done, just that it does get done? Pumping water is one such area. Once water is pumped from one place to another, it's available for use. It generally doesn't matter when it is pumped.

Solar water pumping is becoming quite interesting to farmers who are facing increasing costs running diesel pumps to provide livestock with water as well as water for irrigation. On top of the cost savings from not having to run diesel pumps or extend the grid, bringing water to cattle instead of bringing cattle to the water offers substantial watershed and riparian zone management benefits (cleaner water, reduced erosion, etc.). And portable solar water pumps facilitate rotational grazing and temporary pasture.

Solar force is also an attractive option to bring water to remote homes, cabins or campgrounds. It even makes sense to employ solar drip irrigation and pumping for gardens and homes. The technology to do all that has been around for decades. It's mature and efficient, and there are a number of government programs and utility incentives to use it. There is an initial investment, of course, but given the increasingly unpredictable cost of non-renewable energy that's no longer the obstacle it once was. And the more expensive energy gets, the quicker solar water pumps pay for themselves.

A number of well established and highly reputable companies like Grundfos SQF, SunCentric, Solaram and Solar Force offer a variety of pumps (submersible, surface, solar slowpump, etc.), pump controllers and, of course, solar panels. A complete solar pumping system requires meticulous planning, proper sizing and expert installation, but the resulting benefits are well worth it.

The bad news is that our current problems with oil will likely not go away. The good news is that we have a number of alternatives, and solar energy is one of them. Solar water pumping makes a lot of sense and it is fairly easy to implement.

Reference: Chris_Robertson

Eco Friendly Concrete - The Foundation of the Green Building Movement

2012-06-17T14:57:00.001-07:00

For years, Mother Earth has been greatly inflicted with many damages and severe degradation brought about by man's daily and unceasing activities. For years, environmentalists warn of global warming, species extinction, sea-level increase, air quality degradation, pollution, resource depletion and the release of caustic toxins and harmful wastes to the environment.
With the planet besieged, humanity finally became conscious of its plight and has been taking steps to rectify the problem. Today, almost every aspect of human life is permeated with a deeper regard for environmental welfare, with issues such as energy and resource conservation, proper waste disposal, recycling and reuse, and many other ecologically-friendly activities at the forefront of the fight against environmental deterioration.
The green consciousness is also evident in the building industry, where the green building movement is fully underway as building experts implement ecologically-sound methods, practices and materials in construction activities.

One of the building materials that come into focus when thinking green is concrete. Builders are taking a second look at concrete because of the unique properties it possesses, and how remarkably suitable concrete is in supporting environmentally-friendly constructions.
Here are some of the reasons why concrete finish contractors are seeing green possibilities in ordinarily gray concrete:

1. The materials used to make concrete are abundant
Concrete is a product of limestone, which is one of the most abundant materials in the Earth's surface. Concrete finish contractors use concrete that can be sourced locally, thereby eliminating transportation and freight costs.

2. Concrete can be made from alternative materials
Developments in research have made it possible for concrete to be produced from alternative materials such as ash, which is ordinarily considered a waste or by-product. Concrete production using ash and other by-products lessen waste accumulation, putting these waste materials to good use in building construction, instead of merely filling up a landfill.

3. Concrete can be recycled
Concrete finish contractors know that concrete can be reused. Once concrete slabs are no longer in use, either due to damages or an end to their useful life, they are crushed into small aggregates. Crushing concrete into pieces is an easy process, and applying these crushed concrete materials into new applications such as roads, curbs, or side walks, makes concrete a very recyclable building material.

4. Concrete absorbs heat and reflects light
Concrete finish contractors find concrete useful for energy conservation. It is capable of absorbing heat in the daytime, and retains this heat to ward of the chill of the night or winter, thereby lessening heating costs within the facility. This same heat absorption ability makes the interior places cooler in the daytime or at the summer months, resulting to lesser air conditioning costs. On top of these, concrete finishes bounce back or reflect light away from the surface, further keeping the facility in comfortable temperatures.

5. Concrete is enduring
Concrete finish contractors work with a material that is known for its longevity and imperviousness against many types of damages. Concrete structures last for decades, with concrete surfaces requiring little repairs, maintenance or even replacement all throughout their life cycle. This makes concrete an excellent material for sustainable building construction.

With the environment continually exposed to degradations of all kinds, concrete is one of the best building materials that contribute less to this degradation. Its unique properties make concrete one of the most ecologically-friendly or "green" materials in the planet today.

Reference: Steve_A._Parker

Cordwood Houses - A Green Alternative

2012-06-16T05:03:00.003-07:00

Cordwood masonry construction consists of taking uniform lengths of wood and stacking them to form some sort of wall held together by masonry. It's really that simple, but there are lots of variations.
The name "cordwood"comes from the material: uniform lengths of wood like the sort you'd find in a firewood stack, which, of course, is measured in "cords" and hence sometimes called "cordwood". The technique is also called "stackwall"construction or "stovewood" construction.

The pieces of wood are stacked just as you would stack a pile of firewood, except that with each course you lay down two parallel lines of mortar along the outside edges of the stack. The mortar is roughly 4"wide. If you're using 24" long pieces of wood you end up with a space between the mortar, inside the wall space, of about 16". This should be filled with some sort of insulation. You can use fibreglass, rockwool, sawdust or just about anything else that will restrict air flow and heat loss. If you're going off grid and trying to be low impact get creative.

If you're building in a remote area with little manpower remember: getting a 10" thick 15 foot log can be pretty tough. Ropes, planks, pulleys and extra hands can help you accomplish it, but if you've only got one or two people imagine how much easier it is to build the same 15' long wall with 16" pieces.
Before you begin building you need to collect materials. You will need a source of wood rounds, some sort of mortaring materials (cement, lime, sand, sawdust and paper can be used, but other materials will work as well). If you're able to, do yourself a favour and get a small cement mixer. You'll also need some lumber to frame windows and doors, and you'll need some sort of structure for the roof. If you can acquire whatever windows and doors you're going to use, all the better, as you'll be able to frame the rough in holes properly.
The wood should be dry, and de-barked. Remember that cutting, stripping and drying the wood to optimum conditions could be a three year project. Also remember that you can build with green wood if utilitarian shelter is the goal (you can build the cordwood mansion once you're established)
Like all building, you need to start with a foundation. The type of foundation depends on where you're building. Something that's going to be inspected and has to meet a building code will almost certainly require some concrete work, even if only sono-tube piers. A more remote area will allow you more flexibility. In fact, in a very remote area it would be feasible to dig a shallow trench along the perimeter of the building and fill it with rocks a few inches higher than grade level, and then start building the wall on top (the key in this sort of environment is to get past vegetative soil and into mineral soil - sand, gravel or hardpan - which won't deteriorate and move after you've built on it. A rock filled trench will not transfer moisture above the water line.

You could also right on rock, if a large enough space is available, or construct a frame of timbers or logs laid on top of large rocks. Keep an eye on drainage, and remember that you can build a level interior floor afterwards, whether of wood or fill.
Once you have the foundation you can begin building the walls. Walls run from corner to corner, corner to an intersection with another wall, or between two intersections. Corners and intersections are structural opportunities. If you've created a frame of large timbers your structure should be solid before you start filling in the space. If you aren't using a timber frame you'll have to figure out how to tie corners and wall intersections together. It's possible to create interlocking corners, log cabin style, with lengths of wood long enough to be structural but small enough for one person to handle and place.
The walls can consist strictly of log rounds, of split rounds or a combination of the two. Placement of each piece of cordwood can be random or planned, in order to accomplish a tight fit and an eye pleasing design.
Doors and windows start by placing a frame on the wall at the lowest level of the opening, and then stacking and mortaring the cordwood to the side and then over the top of the frame. The frame can be temporary, and removed once the wall has set, or it can be the permanent frame to which the doors and windows get attached.

Thickness of the walls depends on climate. In warm areas thinner walls are acceptable, but the further north you go the thicker you need to make the walls. In some parts of Canada a two wall system (one exterior and one interior) are sometimes used.
The style of roof depends on personal taste, location, the environment and the structure. If snowload is high it makes sense to use a steep roof, if water collection is part of the plan then different materials will be needed, and a large roof are will need a string structure to keep it up. One common characteristic, however, is big overhangs. The less weather touches the walls, the better. Make it a minimum of 16 inches.
Roofing material can be almost anything. There are tin roofed cordwood homes, as well as earthen roofed ones. Again, creativity, strength, safety and low impact are the goals. There are many solutions available.
Cordwood home technology has been around at least 1,000 years, and probably longer. They can be very affordable to build, and can be built by one person if need be. As such, they are an excellent option for someone going off grid.

Reference: Rob_Chipman

Energy and HVAC Optimization

2012-06-14T16:16:00.000-07:00

Let's talk about 30-40% of your electricity bill. That's how much it costs the average homeowner or commercial building owner to provide proper heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning (HVAC). A good HVAC system is the key to maintaining a comfortable, healthy and interior environment. Through the years, I have been asked by many owners for a strategy to reduce their cost of energy and HVAC. They don't want to sacrifice the interior environmental conditions, but they do want a point-by-point plan to follow. The interesting thing that often happens is that energy bills are lowered substantially and the HVAC system performance is improved. This is a standard function of any mechanical engineer specializing in energy and HVAC.
The information on this page will help homeowners, building owners and building operators make informed decisions about existing HVAC systems or future upgrades.

Load Reduction
HVAC Systems
Control Systems
Operation and Maintenance

Load Reduction
The first step to achieve energy and HVAC system optimization is load reduction. This step normally consists of a long range plan which itemizes the actions to be taken based on best return on investment. Reducing your building load allows the existing HVAC system to operate more efficiently. If a new system or systems are being considered, it will be more cost effective to design for the reduced load as opposed to the existing load. A few common load reduction strategies include:

Tighten the building shell and add additional insulation. Adding insulation in existing buildings may not be achievable in some instances, so more consideration should be aimed at the exterior shell, especially windows and doors.
Installing energy-efficient windows. This is a big item on some buildings that still have single pane windows. The installation of double pane windows with a thermal break is a great return on investment. Make sure they are ENERGY STAR qualified windows. Tinting or Low-E coatings will even be better.
Upgrading lighting systems. The average commercial building has a lighting density of 2-3 watts per square foot which maintains proper lighting levels. This is a significant part of the HVAC load and almost any efforts in this direction will lower the cooling requirement for the building. Accent lighting (sometimes called architectural lighting) are not always energy efficient and should not be considered if you want to reduce energy and HVAC costs. Energy-efficient lighting systems emit less heat into conditioned space than older incandescent technology. If you have a return air plenum instead of return air ductwork, consider light troffers so that some of the heat from the lights is returned to the HVAC system instead of going into the occupied area.
Selecting efficient equipment and electronic devices that have a power saver option will reduce the sensible heat gain in the space. Items to consider include copy machines, kitchen equipment, computers and refrigerators.
Control ventilation by having your outside air balanced. Most building owners have drawings of the original HVAC system installation. Have the drawings reviewed by a mechanical engineer to confirm your outside air flow rates conform to the latest code requirements. If no drawings are available, your mechanical engineer should still be able to make recommendations for improvement.

Addressing these items is your first step to reducing energy and HVAC costs.

HVAC Systems

The second step to achieve energy and HVAC system optimization is knowing your system. Your HVAC system is critical to your interior environment, but it also represents a large component of your utility expenses. While it is beyond the scope of this article to discuss every system, a few recommendations can be addressed. Every HVAC system component has increased in efficiency over the years. If your system is more than 13 years old, it's time to begin planning for an upgrade to new equipment. Well maintained residential systems have a life expectancy of about 15 years or so but seem to fail at the worse times. Have a replacement plan ready for the day your equipment fails.
Commercial systems vary, but if your building is using packaged equipment or split systems, the same lifetime can be expected. For larger commercial systems and industrial applications, the HVAC system may be more complex and require an individual analysis by a mechanical engineer. As I said, HVAC systems vary and no one-size-fits-all analysis works for larger systems. What all these systems have in common is they are normally fueled by electricity. Electricity cost money, so any efforts in the direction of increased efficiency is a plus.

HVAC System Tips:

Find a qualified consultant you trust. If you are a home owner or small commercial building owner, find a good HVAC company or mechanic to evaluate and maintain your system. If you are a large commercial building owner, find a commercial HVAC company for normal maintenance and a good mechanical engineer for specific guidance. I do not recommend using a mechanical engineer employed by the HVAC Company; find a third party engineer for unbiased information.
Verify your HVAC system load. Home owners should use ACCA's Manual J calculation method and all others should have a load conducted by a mechanical engineer. Commercial buildings have more requirements related to code conformance, minimum ventilation rates, etc and are individual to each building.
Load reduction-Read the information above.
Select equipment sized for your load. NEVER OVERSIZE! More-is-better does not apply for HVAC systems. It will cost more to purchase the equipment as well as operate it. Get the load and the equipment selection right the first time.
Purchase high efficiency or Energy Star equipment. Many of the new systems include variable speed drives for fans and compressors. Over the years of ownership this will be paid back many times over. Compare standard efficiency equipment to high efficiency equipment in terms of initial cost and life cycle costs. Any good HVAC company or mechanical engineer can obtain this information.
Consider some form of energy recovery for any air exhausted from the building and use it to condition the incoming fresh air. This is air you have paid to condition, so extracting some of the energy before exhausting it should be a priority.
For large commercial buildings, consider conditioning the outside air with a dedicated outside air unit. This will eliminate any problems related to humidity control in most instances. It will also increase occupant comfort and allow for further downsizing of equipment.
Commercial buildings should consider economizers on their equipment. Most current codes require economizers on equipment over 15 tons in size. Often available at a low incremental cost, these units draw in fresh air from the outside when the temperature (sometimes humidity) outside is lower than the temperature inside.
Home owners and small commercial building owners should install programmable thermostats. Commercial building owners should install a Direct Digital Control (DDC) system. The investment in either of these will pay back more than the cost in a small amount of time. Read more below.

Control Systems
The third step to achieve energy and HVAC system optimization is controlling your system.

Programmable Thermostats-The age of digital controls has made saving energy easy. One of the best investments for the homeowner or small commercial building owner is a programmable thermostat. These are simple to use and incorporate strategies based on time scheduling. Most manufacturers offer 7 day programs and setback/setup programs which will turn the HVAC system on and off to compliment your schedule and desired indoor temperature. This is a great way to ensure HVAC systems are used only when necessary.
DDC Systems-For the large commercial building, I consider this as a must have system. Installation costs have steadily decreased and the performance reliability has steadily increased. They can be integrated into any system and expanded as required. Some of the more popular features of these systems are optimized start/stop of the HVAC system, multiple zone control, multiple temperature sensor locations and ventilation control. The best part of these systems is their ability to be scaled up to the largest of commercial applications. This means you can install a simple system and add more controls later to incorporate your whole HVAC system. Again, the payback is short and well worth the investment.

Operation and Maintenance
The fourth and last step to achieve energy and HVAC system optimization is operation and maintenance. The most efficient HVAC systems are well maintained. Ensure reliability, efficiency and a long life for your HVAC system by following these tips.

Find a qualified consultant you trust. If you are a home owner or small commercial building owner, find a good HVAC company or mechanic to evaluate and maintain your system. If you are a large commercial building owner, find a commercial HVAC company for normal maintenance. Make sure you record and document all servicing with dates, times and names of the servicing person.
Home owners should always get a seasonal tune up. The operation of your system will vary with the seasons of the year.
Replace your air filters regularly. Don't use anything less then a MERV 5 filter to assure dust and fibers are removed. Clean filters will save fan energy.
Coil Cleaning-This is always a big item overlooked by residential and commercial building owners. Condenser coils collect dirt and debris on their surfaces because they are outside. This makes the compressor work harder and results in a higher refrigerant temperature in your refrigeration system. Evaporator and heating coils collect dust and fibers that circulate inside your home or building. Clean them at least once a year

Summary
Energy and HVAC optimization will reduce your electricity costs. A little time getting to know your system and familiarizing yourself with improvement strategies will save money and increase the life of your equipment.

Reference: Patrick_Propst

Eco-Friendly Light Bulbs

2012-06-14T05:23:00.000-07:00

Whether for environmental concerns or for the money-saving aspect, more and more people are choosing to use energy-efficient products. Amongst these products are a relatively new product called compact fluorescent (or CFL) light bulbs. What are CFL light bulbs, why are the better for the environment, and how do they work?

How Eco-Friendly Light Bulbs Help the Environment
Eco-friendly light bulbs are gaining popularity throughout the world because of their reduced environmental impact and the money saved by reduced energy bills. These bulbs use a lower wattage of electricity to produce the same amount of light as older, traditional bulbs.
By using less electricity for the same amount of light, eco-friendly light bulbs help reduce carbon output. Despite recent advances in renewable energy, a majority of the world's electricity is created by means of coal-burning power plants and other carbon-producing methods. By reducing the amount of energy needed for any task, green-minded people can greatly reduce their personal impact on the environment.

Compact Fluorescent (CFL) vs. Incandescent Light Bulbs

While fluorescent lighting has been available for many years, for a long time the bulbs were only available in the long, tube-shaped variety. The only bulbs available to fit many fixtures were incandescent light bulbs. Incandescent bulbs work by heating a coil inside the light bulbs, called a filament, to a high temperature. This produces light. However, incandescent bulbs convert only 5% of the energy they use into light.
In contrast, CFL bulbs use on average 75% less energy to achieve the same amount of light. CFL bulbs also last years longer than their incandescent counterparts, meaning less waste for consumers. Combining the energy savings of a CFL bulb with the bulb's extended life translates to a potential savings of $30 or more during the lifetime of each bulb. This makes purchasing CFL bulbs not only an environmentally-friendly option, but a budget-savvy decision as well.

How Compact Fluorescent (CFL) Light Bulbs Work
Rather than using heat to create light, fluorescent light bulbs rely on a chemical reaction. The bulbs are filled with a gas that produced ultraviolet (UV) light when it comes into contact with electricity. The amount of electricity needed to excite the gas and produce light in this manner is just a fraction of the power needed to use incandescent bulbs.
Since UV light is not visible to the human eye, it must go through a special filter in order to be useful. Fluorescent light bulbs contain a white coating on the inside of the bulb that acts as this filter; when the UV light passes though the coating, it changes into light that you can see.
While most traditional, tube-style fluorescent lights have a self-contained ballast, most require a separate ballast in order to function. CFL bulbs, on the other hand, always contain their own ballast. Since external ballasts should always be changed by a licensed electrician, the built-in ballast in a CFL bulb makes the product easy for consumers to use and change.

EnergyStar Light Bulbs
EnergyStar is a joint program of the United States Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency that identifies energy efficient products. Look for the EnergyStar logo on any light bulbs you purchase to be sure that they are energy efficient and therefore environmentally friendly.
In order to receive the EnergyStar seal, products must meet stringent energy use standards. The seal appears on all energy efficient products sold in the United States, encouraging consumers to be conscious of their personal energy usage.

Proper Disposal of Compact Fluorescent (CFL) Light Bulb
Despite the energy-saving advantages of CFL light bulbs, in order to maximize their eco-friendly potential, they must be properly disposed of after they burn out. This is because there is a small amount of the element mercury contained within each bulb. The amount is minimal (over 100 times smaller than the amount found in most mercury thermometers), but is required for fluorescent light bulbs to function and no substitute has yet been found.
Mercury is a naturally-occurring element and can be found in the air, soil, and water in small amounts. These natural deposits of mercury are small and are generally not considered a health threat. However, excessive amounts of mercury can be extremely harmful to humans, leading to symptoms ranging from impairment of the senses to death.
The most common cause of mercury poisoning is by easting contaminated fish. Aquatic ecosystems are very sensitive to environmental hazards because aquatic life acts as a natural water filter. Fish filter contaminated water through their gills, and deposits of these toxins and impurities build up in the fish's tissues.
In order to keep these trace amounts of mercury from contaminating groundwater and accumulating to dangerous levels, all fluorescent bulbs including CFL bulbs should disposed of properly. In order to find CFL disposal programs in your area, try the following:

Call Earth911 at 1-800-CLEAN-UP to find local or nearby disposal sites by zip code.
EnergyStar certified CFL bulbs all have a two-year warranty. If your CFL bulbs burns out before this warranty period expires, return the bulb to your retailer for a replacement.
Some retailers, such as IKEA, encourage the safe disposal of CFL bulbs by offering collection services at their retail outlets. Many other major retailers are considering similar programs as well.
If there are no CFL disposal programs available in your area and your only option is putting them in your household trash, minimize the risk of environmental contamination by securely sealing each bulb inside of a plastic bag.

Phasing Out Incandescent Light Bulbs
Many countries are moving forward with legislation and other measures to eliminate the use of inefficient incandescent bulbs. Canada and Australia are both working toward phasing out the old style bulbs in favor of new, eco-friendly options.
A number of US states are also looking into similar measures, and a voluntary push in the UK offers retailers incentives to remove old light bulbs from their shelves. As global awareness of issues like climate change and environmental conservation continue to grow, it is likely that more countries will begin to enforce such regulations.

Reference: Jacob_S_L_Smith

The Benefits of Solar Panels

2012-06-14T02:34:00.001-07:00

Utility bills are rising, and the prices are getting out of hand. You'd hope that there's an alternative solution, and there is. Solar energy is something that is gaining popularity worldwide, and panels are found across homes and businesses. There are many reasons for switching to solar panels, here are three of the best.
- Save money and make money - Solar panels work by capturing the sun's energy, on a sunny or dull day, via photovoltaic cells, and then converting those cells into electricity. This means that once the panels have been installed, and the upfront installation payment has been made, you have extremely low electricity bills, nearing to virtually free electricity, until the solar panels need replacing.

Each solar panel usually has a life expectancy of 20 years so despite the installation payment being high you will be making a saving over the years that follow. An investment worth making. Additionally, if your panels are producing too much electricity, you can sell that electricity back to the grid and make money as well as save it.

- Easy and reliable - Solar panels are easy to install and can be placed in a garden or on a roof out of sight. They then become an unfailing source of energy because you aren't relying on power from the grid. Instead you have your own source of stored electricity, which is converted on a cloudy day as well as a sunny one. Because sunlight is unlimited you will no longer have to worry about the risk of a power cut half way through a must-see TV program or whilst that well-needed casserole cooks in the oven.

- Doing your bit for the environment - As the 'green' debate escalates and the necessitate to save the world's energy sources and cut the carbon footprint becomes even more vital, you can do your bit by installing solar panels. Electricity produced by these solar tiles is made from the suns energy and doesn't release any harmful gases into the environment.

As well as this, because the solar tiles use the sun to make electricity, only infinitive sources of energy are being used rather than the earth's non-renewable resources. A typical home solar energy system can save one tonne of harmful carbon dioxide a year. You can't feel guilty about the impact of your carbon footprint again!
It makes sense to install solar panels, for both financial and environmental reasons. There isn't a better time to be cutting your utility bills.

Reference: Matt James Barker

Green Roof Benefits

2012-06-13T16:28:00.002-07:00

Progressive modern times and advances in home building technology and materials have shifted attention to the many advantages of having a green roof installed on your home. Why should homeowners consider this alternative to regular roofing? Read on to find out the many benefits of having a green roof for your home.

There are many beneficial relationships for the environment and the home owners when it comes to installing a green roof, or a vegetative roof. Ecologically, working with nature instead of against it is always a better option. The developmental impacts of construction and building could be reduced through the natural design of a vegetative roof. In urban environments where concrete covers nearly every ground area, there is not much nature left in the environment, or any porous surface left. Green Roofs increase and help restore the ecological settings of an urban open space, especially in dense communities. The greater the roof space, the greater the ecological advantage. This is due to the innate nature of a green roof to act as an effective storm water management system.

The loss of nature and green spaces in our urban living environments can be significantly reduced if more and more buildings and homes install green roofs. Nearly any horizontal surface, like roofs can be transformed into a vegetated roof, which can be used to grow many lucrative plants. It's like having your own self sufficient garden on your own roof!

There are many economic gains in installing rooftop gardens. Investing in this type of roof will reap many biological benefits, not to mention a more durable, energy saving, better insulated, and sustainable building materials being utilized. On a daily basis, the area on top of your roof was being wasted and unused, whereas a green roof opens up the space into a more livable, breathable, usable environment and space.

Psychologically, humans have the tendency to perform at peak mental capacities when surrounded by natural beauty and diversity, and being surrounded or exposed to natural landscapes and gardens. Tending to an intensive rooftop gardens has the power of calming and de-stressing, and also acts as a leisure activity. Incorporating ecological design into our homes creates a more aesthetically pleasing space and provides greater visual appeal.

Insurance companies also offer insurance rate reductions, some companies up to 33% for installing green roofs. The promotion of green roofing systems and green building technologies has never been so prevalent and researched, with new strides in sustainable building, there are many incentives to alternative green building practices, of which can save you money on your home insurance plan, increase your health, save you money, and contribute to a healthy green environment. The green industry is well on its way, and the day dense cities adopt green roof building practices, will have the greatest environmental impact. Hong Kong and Vancouver have already greatly explored this alternative, and soon major cities will follow suit. More resistant and sustainable roofing technologies will be the norm soon.

Reference: Amanda_Rodriguez

Stone Homes - The Environmentally Friendly and Aesthetic Habitat

2012-06-13T13:16:00.000-07:00

Stone houses are environment friendly structures that display an aesthetic sense of its owner. Easily available, stone can be considered as one of the most durable construction materials with a wide range of texture options.

In ancient times, various civilizations made use of stone to build their houses. This was because stone was probably the only available building material excluding mud and trees. Even in the modern era, eco-friendly houses have gained immense popularity because of their magnificent properties. Houses constructed with the help of stones are capable enough to resist fire, wind, water as well as various insects including termites.

Some stone houses provide a natural, unique appearance that reminds one of the European castles.

To avail the maximum benefits of these artistic constructions, it is suggested to use durable stones such as granite and avoid stones the wear down over time, such as limestone. Furthermore, purchasing of previously chopped stone is a wiser alternate to escape from the time consuming and laborious phase of stone cutting. However, the top suited stone for home construction is one, which is available in the respective local area so that transportation does not become an issue.

Sustainability and durability adds an extra spark to the elegance of these stone homes without costing much for maintenance and care. There are many historical examples to speak about sustainability of simple yet graceful stone houses where they have witnessed many centuries.

Pyramids, made up of stone, attributed to be a one of the beautiful creators, across the world, are best examples to display stone's strength. Various historical stone buildings, especially constructed following the European-style stone houses have been around for thousand years and will probably remain the same for centuries.

Beside environmentally friendly abilities, stone homes also deserve a round of applause for their natural beauty that does not demand any painting or siding. In addition, the stone homes are comfortable nests and if constructed with passive solar design, they have ability to store heat within its walls. The absorbed heat is likely to radiate throughout the house, all night, creating a cozy and warm environment for the users. Above all stone homes are easy to clean and can be washed with simple water.

Proper planning as well as availability of a construction expert plays an important role to maximize stone home benefits. Furthermore, it is crucial to choose a quality stone along with proper technique to assemble them. It can be seriously harmful to choose an inferior quality stone that is not strong enough to support the required weight.

In spite of an array of benefits, the stone home owner also faces some difficulties with them. Customization is one such issue. For older homes, replacement of stones may present a particular challenge.

Some expensive stones, commonly used for flooring, including tiles may be cold and very hard under foot. It's not recommended to use softer stones because they are prone to strains, moisture and scratches.

All in all, however, the owners of stone homes are generally happy with the strength, durability, security, energy savings, environmental soundness and natural beauty of these structures.

Reference: Dwight_Smoot

Build An Eco Home And Save Money

2012-06-12T00:51:00.000-07:00

Mark Edwards lived in a draughty Georgian house in the village of Shrawley in Worcestershire. He and his wife felt that they were fuel poor and were constantly frustrated with the soaring cost of fuel bills for their home. Their son joined an eco-action committee at school and through this initiative he urged his parents into thinking green. As a result they decided to build an eco house in the garden of their home which would incorporate all of the latest green technology available.

The project did not go smoothly and there were huge delays because they lost their builder and therefore Mark had to become project manager, it took four years to actually finish the project. During this time his wife Lucy wanted the existing house to be as eco friendly as possible and so Mark put the other house, known as Valley Views, on the market for £550,000. Mark at this time was exhausted through his efforts on Valley Views and cash-poor. However due to his enthusiasm he is now an advisor on the Grand Designs road shows tour.

Mark was inspired by the Guerkin building in London when he designed his home and wanted the house to reflect it but he had to think about what the planners would actually accept. So the house has an unusual curved wall in reference to the Guerkin with magnificent rural views and state of the art energy saving capacity. The four bedroom house costs just £3 a day heat and installed in the rooms are skirting board radiators, sheep's wool insulation and a warm and cold air filtering system. There is no need for a kettle in the house because a hot water tap produces water which is at boiling point; kettles are often referred to as using short sharp amounts of electricity so this device certainly helps the electricity bills.

Mark had to travel to Germany to meet with someone who knew all about the latest German technologies and how he could adapt them to the British climate and houses. British weather is a lot damper than Germany so the technologies had to adapt to this. As a result some of these ideas were then incorporated into the family's old house which has now reduced its carbon footprint by an amazing 47%. Many other people around the country are doing just the same in their homes and are urging British builders and architects to do the same.

At present when people are buying a house it is not their green credentials which sell it to them but mostly its price, position and appearance unfortunately. Andrew Yates of Eco Arc Architects has been building groundbreaking carbon neutral houses in Findhorn in Scotland since 1986 and has noticed that green building is becoming a lot more main stream. His clients now include the National Trust and the Royal Horticultural Society as well as doctor's surgeries and individual homes. Individual homes that he has worked on range from £180,000 up to £1.4million, so all kinds of homeowners are deciding that they best way to go is green.

Reference: Fiona_C_Davies

Building A Luxury Eco-Friendly Home

2012-06-11T04:36:00.002-07:00

It seems that the affluent "eco worriers" are helping the self build market boom. Programmes such as Grand Designs have had an impact on the self build market which is witnessing the luxury end of the self build market growing faster than ever before. It seems that the Waitrose generation, who are being classed as the well off eco worriers, are looking for their dream plot so that they can build their dream home.

Typically it is 20% to 30% cheaper to build your home rather than buy it ready-made, this creates a premium once the house is completed. Sometimes the premium is a lot higher than the self builder originally thought. One such example is Warwick Raymen who runs a glazing firm. He bought 12 acres of land in Croydon, Cambridgeshire so that he could build an eco-friendly farm house. The cost of the land was £590,000 and the cost to build the house was around £300,000. However the end value of the farmhouse is an astonishing £1.25million which is an uplift of 40% more than the entire cost.

A self builder also pays less tax because if you buy a home you have to pay stamp duty on the value of the house. However if you build one then you only pay the duty on the value of the land if the land cost more than £125,000. If the land cost you less than £125,000 then you do not pay anything. In terms of the building materials that you use throughout the build, you can also claim the VAT back on them.

For some of these self builders money is no object especially if their plot involves demolishing an existing house to build again. Because there are a shortage of premium plots, especially in places like London, buying an existing house only to demolish it and start again is becoming increasingly popular. However doing it this way is not really eco-friendly. Other options are previously commercial or light industrial sites as you can find these sites in residential areas such as London. The only hurdle is getting the local planning authority to change the use of the site.

Mortgage companies are lending to self builders. Property developers may be finding it harder in this economic climate but if you are building the house as a family home then you can get finance. Some facts around the self build market are:-

£220,000 is the average cost of a self build project in the UK, so your eco-friendly home may be within your reach and is not just for the really rich.

In the coming few years the self build market is expected to double in size.

There are more than 20,000 homes built every year in the UK as self build projects.

Reference: Fiona_C_Davies

Your Guide to Green and Eco-Friendly Leases

2012-06-10T13:47:00.003-07:00

With all that is happening in the world today - global warming, hurricanes, typhoons, flash floods, tsunamis and earthquakes, one can easily feel alarmed about the condition of Mother Nature. We do not need to be superheroes and have super powers to save the Earth because we can help with our own little ways. One way is by making sure that we are living as concerned as we can be to our environment.

Good thing that there are increasing numbers of people including public officials, athletes, musicians and celebrities trying to spread awareness about living green or eco-friendly. You can follow this act in various ways - avoid using plastic bags, using hair spray nets, heavily polluted car and others. Well, this article will focus on helping you find and decorate an apartment to be green and eco-friendly. This is one way to start your quest to do your part to help Mother Nature.

1. Consider eco-friendly furniture - It is recommended to avoid big warehouse brands and instead settle for materials that are made of organic materials such as bamboo, organic cotton and other recycled items. This is not only helping the environment but also a good way to help you save lots of money.

Let us admit it, it is far more expensive to buy big warehouse brands compared to those that are made from bamboo and other organic products. However, we cannot say that eco-friendly furniture downgrade your standards because in fact there are lots of manufacturers out there who come up with real piece of arts using organic materials.

2. Paint your walls with soy paint - Do you want to renovate your apartment by coming up with new paint colors? Then why not consider using soy paint? Soy paint is non-toxic, durable alternative that is perfect alternative for commercial paints. This reduces indoor pollution thus make your house green and eco-friendly.

3. Conserve water - Sometimes we take for granted simple things like running water while we are brushing our teeth or while we wash the car using water hose. This may sound shallow but if we will calculate every ounce or litre of water that was wasted in a year, we would be surprised to know that it can suffice to a family's one-year supply of water. So, make sure to conserve water, use glass when you brush your teeth and use bucket and tub instead of water hose when watering the plants or washing the car.

Based on some surveys, 86% of Americans would prefer to live in a green and eco-friendly apartment. Therefore, it is truly advisable to start considering the tips mentioned in this article and help increase the 86% numbers who are willing to do their share to help the environment. This is not only for our own sake but this is most importantly helpful for the next generation.

4. Reuse things that you can - Let us not only be eco-friendly but also practical by using things that can be recycled and used afterwards. It is advisable to use washable towels compared to paper towels as one good example.

Reference: Gary_L_Meurer

Why Choose an Eco-Building?

2012-06-09T14:45:00.002-07:00

An Eco-building is a building which has been designed to minimise its impact on the environment. This can be achieved in many ways;

Sustainability of the materials it is constructed from
Energy Efficiency
Impact on the environment in the event of demolition of the building

Sustainability of Materials
An eco-building should be constructed from materials which are demonstrably responsibly sourced and, if possible, renewable. So we need to think about where the materials have come from and if they can be replaced.
Certain materials traditionally used, such as stone are clearly naturally occurring - but not immediately renewable - and have an obvious impact on the environment when extracted.
Bricks are made from naturally occurring clay, but again have an obvious impact during extraction of the clay and a less widely known impact through the bi-product of fluorine which is a highly reactive element that is dangerous to humans.
Many options- but the only truly sustainable, renewable and natural construction material is timber. Timber has been used in construction for centuries and ancient timber buildings can be found throughout the world: particularly in Scandinavian countries.
By using timber in your green building, not just in the frame of the building, but for the internal and external walls as well you can be confident in a truly sustainable building envelope.
Look for FSC and PEFC certification to confirm sustainable sourcing.

Energy Efficiency
As the cost of energy increases and potential for shortages in the future grows, an eco-building will ensure that energy use is minimised in order to reduce ongoing costs and, if possible, dependency.
High levels of insulation are a must: the "U" values of your new building should be checked to ensure that lost energy is being minimised. The "U" values will often be shown against different elements of the building such as windows, flooring cassette or walls. Make sure that there are no weak spots. If you have selected a wooden building such as MPL (Machine Profile Log) then low "U" values such as 0.16W/m²K for the roof and windows potentially as low as 1.0W/m²K will be an obvious attraction.
Good natural light has multiple benefits: financially it will help reduce energy bills, however, more important are the personal benefits as sunlight not only improves mood but general health and well-being and is even proven to kill germs within the furniture and building. Your eco-building should give opportunities for sun-tubes and roof lights to help increase the natural light especially in corridors.
Ventilation is also an important consideration in your new eco-building. Avoid expensive cooling systems and ensure that there is adequate passive ventilation. Such simple options as opening windows and electronically operated roof lights can help to ensure that there is good air-flow. Make a good choice of sustainable materials ie timber log walling: wood is able to better regulate humidity than artificial materials and does not retain any electro-static charge. This is of benefit in particular to allergy sufferers which account for approximately 1:4 of the population.
Don't forget - insulation works both ways keeping summer heat out as well as winter heat in!

Impact on the environment after demolition
Depending on the choice of sustainable building the lifespan will vary. An MPL wooden building will typically last well in excess of 80 years. The larch cladding alone will last 60 - 80 years without treatment. Eventually, almost all buildings come to an end of their natural life, whether through degradation of materials of advances in construction and design making them obsolete. You need to make sure that your new eco-building will not be a burden to the next generation.
Check to see that the materials offer a sensible option for re-cycling. Brick and block can be crushed for hardcore on other building projects - but this tends to only happen on larger sites, otherwise it is potential landfill as it is expensive to transport. Steel and glass can be re-cycled and re-made but it is likely to be only a small element of the construction. Plaster from demolition almost always ends up in landfill. Timber is 100% recyclable and at the very least will always be in demand for fuel: which is a growing market and certain to be required even when the building itself is no longer.

Reference: Romane_Smith

Why the Africans Live in Huts

2012-06-09T03:39:00.003-07:00

Whenever one sees a picture of a hut, one thinks of Africa. Indeed, huts have been the defining architectural hallmark of Africa, and throughout the continent, they have been the preferred building style.
Huts are a form of living space. Huts are usually round, with a peaked roof. They are usually made of mud or clay, with a wooden structure to support the building, and a single wooden pole in the centre, which supports the grass-thatched roof.
Many critics of Africa claim that Africa can boast no great cultures south of Egypt. By that, they often mean that there is no architectural evidence of greatness south of the Pyramids. Indeed, architecture or architectural remains are the accepted calling card of the so-called 'great cultures'.
While most of Africa can boast no such fossil evidence, there is reason to believe that the architectural choices made by the Africans thus far are neither as accidental nor as simplistic as they may seem.
For one, most of Africa is warm to hot throughout the year, without an extended winter period. The most uncomfortable climatic period is the long rains, during which it rains a lot, mostly every day. However, in most of Africa, it showers, rather than rains. That means a quick and voluminous period of precipitation, unlike rain in Europe for example, which may be a slight but continuous precipitation. In addition, most of Africa, which lies at the equator, experiences almost equal twelve-hour periods each for night and day. This is in contrast to for example Europe, where in winter, darkness may be up eighteen hours long.
As such, most of life in Africa is lived outside. A shelter is needed only for the night, against the cold and as shelter from wild animals. There has never been a need to invest as heavily in shelter as has been done in Europe for example. Strictly speaking, there was rarely a situation in Africa where lack of shelter would have been life-threatening. In many African cultures, nomads, hunters, warriors and messengers were often away from home for long periods without having shelter.
Huts are often small, and made of the readily available mud or river clay, plastered over a skeleton of branches. They were completely inexpensive in both materials and labour. In many cultures, the women did the plastering, while the men did the thatching of the roof. Among the Maasai of East Africa, the woman builds the whole structure, which is referred to as a manyatta.
Because of this relaxed philosophy to shelter, the Africans were not enslaved by the acquisition of shelter as is often the case in the modern world. In today's globalised world, buying one's home is a lifetime liability that forces one to live chained to a mortgage, under the Damocles sword of a foreclosure. The exploitation of this fear in the U.S.A. contributed to the current worldwide financial crisis.
It is also worthy of note that almost all the famous architectural monuments of the great cultures were built by employing slave labour, forced and semi-forced labour. That has never been necessary in Africa south of the pyramids. In fact, shelter was so inexpensive that the nomads could walk away from their huts at a moment's notice and walk off into the savannah - the epitome of freedom.
It also meant that no family was ever without shelter because shelter was unaffordable, unlike in today's world where many families become homeless if they experience a financial upset midway through their mortgage.
In many parts of Africa, the huts were renovated and renewed once a year, after the harvest season and before the next rains. This was the period with the least work and was like a holiday. The harvest was in, and next agricultural season had not yet begun. The women renovated the walls of the huts by plastering with a new layer of mud or clay. White or ochre-coloured river clay was used as a cosmetic finish inside and outside the hut, as well as on the floor. Communities that had no access to river clay used a mixture of cow-dung and mud, or ash.
A good African housewife took this duty as seriously as caring for her own body. A capable wife could be identified by her impeccably-kept hut(s). The regular renovation also served an important hygienic function: river clay is a very clean and wholesome material that discourages the breeding of insects and other pests. Both clay and dried cow dung are similar to ash in this respect. Cooking-fire ash from non-poisonous burnt wood is pure enough to be used as an alternative for toothpaste.
Renovation also gave the woman a creative outlet: she could paint whatever motifs on her walls that she wished. The men re-thatched the hut(s), using grass, such as elephant grass which was mostly cut by the women. Among the Masaai, the women did the renovation work as the men were often occupied with the full-time job of protecting the tribe from lions and other dangers lurking in the savannah.
A very satisfying effect of this yearly renewal was the psychological effect. There was an atmosphere of renewal every year; of new life, of a fresh start, of soul cleansing and a doing away with the past. Every year. This is a very healthy psychological perspective. Festivals featuring dancing and feasting also accompanied this period.
In today's world, acquiring a home has such a finality to it. A sense of being rooted and captured by one building for one's lifetime.
Because they were low-cost, huts were also very flexible. One could build a homestead of huts: one for cooking, another for sleeping, another for receiving visitors, and so on. Every time one needed a new hut, one simply built one. Adolescent boys were given a piece of land where they could build their own huts, a distance away from the rest of the family. Their privacy was assured, and their activities within their huts were nobody's concern. A lot of adolescents today would appreciate the idea of having one's own hut.
Huts are very comfortable and exactly right for many parts of Africa. This is mainly because of the building materials used. Both clay and grass are good insulators, but are porous, and so allow a free flow of air. It is often very hot during the afternoons in Africa. The hut remains cool and is a welcome resting place. At night, when temperatures fall, the hut retains its daytime temperature, keeping the inhabitants warm.
Huts are also very low-maintenance. A well-renovated hut only needs to be swept once a day with a straw broom. There was no need to wipe, polish or dust. Accidents with liquids were undramatic because the liquid was simply absorbed into the earth. The only real danger was fire, since the thatched roofs could burn very quickly, trapping the people inside.
Recently, an architectural team in Switzerland has 'discovered' the virtues of clay as a building material. Clay is a strong, durable material that is easy to work with. Applied correctly, it can be used to build structures that are stable, durable and aesthetic without necessitating the use of paint and cement. Most important of all, clay is healthy. It has now been proven that clay filters out toxins from the environment. Modern building materials like cements, paint, fillers and metals release toxins that compromise human health and well-being. A building made of clay or mud is completely eco-friendly, provided the initial source was safe.
The Africans knew that a long time ago. Huts, made of natural 'earth' materials, fitted in with their basic philosophy of drawing on nature for all their needs, and only in the amounts that were needed. For example, calabashes and gourds were used as containers for milk, water, local beer, porridge, honey or any other liquid. Cooking pots were made of clay, as were water pots. Cooking sticks were made of wood.
Water stored in a clay pot has a pleasant, natural coolness, and smells of earth. Drunk out of a calabash, it has an additional woody flavour. Food cooked in a clay pot over a wood fire retains an inimitable earthy aroma, especially fresh beans or meat dishes.
Sleeping mats or sitting mats were woven out of rushes or made of animal skin, as was clothing. Some people constructed a raised clay platform covered with animal skins or rush mats to act as a seat or a bed. Stools were made of wood or woven from rushes. Women wore jewelry made from bone, horn, wood, stone, clay, beads or woven rushes. Foodstuffs were carried or stored in woven rush baskets or clay pots.
This philosophy of living in harmony with the bounty of nature led to zero garbage, since everything was biodegradable. Indeed, until the advent of modernity and urbanisation, Africa was a continent of natural beauty preserved in its entirety.
Sadly, present-day Africans are jumping wholesale onto the bandwagon of expensive homes built of derived materials, which require a lifetime to pay for and a fortune to repair and maintain. The materials used in modern buildings trap heat, smells and moisture and are often derived using procedures that harm the environment. The houses lack the wellness effect of sitting in a hut built entirely out of the earth. They are in keeping with the modern day trends of inflated consumerism, self-definition through possession and a careless disregard for the planet.
Happily, some are rediscovering the enchantment of huts. They have been re-designed in some cases to be much larger, with large windows, or combined in intersecting or interconnecting structures. A famous hotel in Nairobi, Kenya is built using this concept, with treated straw used for thatching.
Indeed, more and more people are re-discovering why Africans lived in huts.

Reference: Lamaro_Schoenleber

How Does Climate Change Affect Real Estate?

2012-06-09T03:31:00.000-07:00

Climate change is one of the things that could affect the price of real estate prices in an area, and you need to be aware of it if you want to be successful with your investments. The problem is that there are a lot of people who are not aware of the fact that climate change can affect the price of properties, and this is the reason why they are not getting the most out of their investments. In this article, we will be looking at this situation from the point-of-view of a seller and a buyer to give you better information about it.
How Buyers Are Affected

If you are going to buy a property, you need consider the effects of climate change in the area. This could increase or decrease the price of the property that you are going to buy. As an investor, you need to make sure that you are going to get better returns for your investments, but how are you going to get better return if the price of the property decreases over time. This is something that you need to consider when buying a property, especially if you are looking forward to selling it at a much higher price.
On the other hand, if you are going to buy a property to have a house where you can live, then it would be great if you are going to carefully check the effects of climate change in the area. Keep in mind that you are going to spend several years in this house, so you need to make sure that you will be comfortable with it. Though you will be spending more money for it, this will ensure that you will get the best from your investment, and will give you a house that will help you be more comfortable.
How Sellers Are Affected

If you are going to sell a real estate property, you need to make sure that you are aware of the effects of climate change in your area. There are different things that could happen, and it would depend on the location of your property. If you want to get the best deal from a sale, you need to make sure that the buyer is aware of the things that they will experience. You need to start building rapport with your clients and you can do this by letting them know the things that they need to know.
It would be better if you are going to renovate your house and make it adaptive to climate change to increase its overall value. You don't have to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars just to be able to make it a better real estate property for climate change. Yes, you will be spending more for it, but the benefits that you can get from doing this is worth more than the amount that you will be spending. Just think of it as an investment that will help you get better deals and value for the property that you are trying to sell.

Reference: David_Yaffee