Eco Evaluator

Eco Friendly Kitchens Have Less Food Waste

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 04:45:23 +0000

When you think about an eco friendly kitchen, water conservation, recycling, and increased energy efficiency may all pop into your mind. These are all significant factors for a healthy and environmentally friendly kitchen. Yet, many upgrades, like buying energy efficiency appliances, require you to spend money. There’s one huge eco friendly improvement that will actually save you money without costing you a dime: reducing food waste.

BPA Dangers - Fact or Fiction?

Sat, 10 Dec 2011 00:05:33 +0000

By now, many people have heard about the dangers of BPA, otherwise known as Bisphenol A. The most well-known source of this chemical is in plastic containers, many of which release BPA in our food and beverages. This chemical release is aggravated by significant temperature changes. The potential danger is why we have been warned not to microwave our lunch in plastic containers or freeze our water bottles for a colder drink.

Saving Energy on Credit

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 17:08:52 +0000

Everyone is looking for ways to save some money these days.� The economy is in the tank and the more you have to spend for essentials (like electricity and water), the less you have to spend on the things that really matter to you. When you add these needs to the desire to have nice appliances and do good for the earth, a lot of people feel like they’re forcing their budgets to burst at the seams.

Save Money by Saving Energy

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 01:02:18 +0000

Did you know that one of the main reasons for your inflated electricity bills is the hidden waste of energy in your home? Wasted energy amounts to throwing your hard-earned money down the drain. Fortunately, you can easily save money by making some smart choices and implementing energy efficiency methods at home.

Solar Thermal Systems

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 20:30:13 +0000

A common misconception is that solar technology was created in the 70’s. Yet, solar thermal systems have been in use for centuries. In fact, they date back to Roman times when hot water flowing beneath the floors heated not only baths, but also the living space. This simple concept is still being used today in radiant flooring. Solar thermal uses are expanding to areas such as heating and even cooling. However, the main use for solar thermal today is still in generating hot water for the home.

Technical Aspects of Moisture Management

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:37:17 +0000

With the rapid evolution of building science, there is growing concern focused on constructing durable structures that effectively manage moisture in the building envelope.� Significant problems, ranging from air quality to mold, are arising due to the confusion about the proper use, installation and compatibility with the variety of new materials available today.

The Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Program

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 18:21:09 +0000

Who is the largest single U.S. consumer, one of the largest worldwide consumers, and a supporter of environmentally friendly products and services? Answer: the U.S. government. With $350 billion in annual spending, it is no surprise that the federal government makes a big impact with their massive purchasing power. Currently federal laws and executive orders require factoring in environmental considerations and sustainable practices in governmental purchasing decisions. Assisting governmental agencies, green vendors, and consumers is the Environmentally Preferable Purchasing (EPP) Program.

The Biofuel Controversy

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 00:58:50 +0000

There is an ongoing debate over the impact of manufacturing biofuels. Skeptics argue that using crops for biofuels divert resources away from human consumption, therefore causing a choice in whether the crops are used for food or fuel. This reasoning connects biofuels to global hunger issues. This is based on the claims of some food industry groups that more than a quarter of corn crops are being diverted from food to ethanol production and yet the U.S. corn supply has outpaced demand since 1989. Most people with any amount of human compassion would easily say that food is definitely a…

The Cost of Solar Panels Is Dropping

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 20:38:56 +0000

According to a recently published bulletin from California’s Employment Development Department (EDD) photovoltaic (PV) solar installations are increasing around the country, with some areas like California experiencing dramatic increases. Some reasons for this relate to perpetually increasing energy costs, rebates, federal tax incentives and a gradual decrease in the pricing of solar modules to smaller dealers, installers and DIY customers. Bottom line is that the cost per watt is becoming more affordable.

DIY Weatherization Tips

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 21:38:49 +0000

Many people now understand that improvements in energy conservation can yield substantial savings for home and business owners. The best course of action is typically an energy audit with a blower door test to see where the most cost effective improvements can be made. Improvements, such as sealing and insulation, can even be performed by the homeowner under the direction of an energy efficiency professional.

Plant Breeding Is a Natural Way to Fight Food Shortages

Sat, 16 Jul 2011 01:02:53 +0000

World hunger has been a hot debate between humanitarians and environmentalists – rightfully so. The United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimated that in 2010 there were 925 million hungry people worldwide. That means that nearly 1 in 7 people are undernourished. The problem is not due to a lack of food. Instead the deficiency is related to the cost of food. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has identified multiple factors responsible for rising food prices that are responsible for increased starvation. Two of those factors, slowing growth in agricultural production and rising farm production costs, can be…

Cleantech Initiatives

Fri, 24 Jun 2011 00:29:07 +0000

These days it seems that nearly every organization, state or country has some sort of cleantech initiative. There are a lot of hopes resting on clean technology to strengthen the U.S. economy. What is cleantech? Why has it become so popular? And can it really help the U.S. economy?

Biodiesel Is Growing in Hawaii

Wed, 22 Jun 2011 22:41:08 +0000

Historically Hawaiian agriculture would have conjured up thoughts of sugar and coffee or pineapples and macadamia nuts. Times are changing. With a $2.4 million military grant, Hawaii is adding oilseed to its array of tropical crops. This switch to renewable energy will help to reduce the state’s $7 billion annual oil dependency as well as support the local economy. This two-year research project has already begun in Waialua, Oahu. In just 120 days, the island will become a contributor to biodiesel production.

Hybrid Vehicle Battery Recycling

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 20:11:44 +0000

Someone once said, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with one step”. This certainly holds true when realizing hybrid technology is only a step on the path to a more sustainable future. Proponents of hybrid vehicles tout their fuel efficiency and lowered emissions - a big improvement over their gas guzzling counterparts. Opponents, however, continually assert the question, “What are we going to do with all those batteries?” With well over a million hybrids on the road today, it’s a fair question.

A Shopper's Guide to Buying Organic Produce

Sat, 11 Jun 2011 00:53:21 +0000

Organic farming is good for the environment and organic foods are great for your health. Many studies suggest organic produce has more nutrients primarily due to the soil being less depleted and without pesticide residue. This is great, except for the fact that buying organic is just more expensive. Many people today find it difficult to justify the additional cost of buying organic. Fortunately, a recent report spells out which fruits and vegetables are more/less crucial in buying organic. The selection is based on levels of pesticide residue on the parts of the produce regularly consumed. If you can't buy…

The US Military Has Officially Gone Green

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 00:57:24 +0000

When thinking about the U.S. military the words green, eco friendly, and sustainability rarely come to mind. However, the Department of Defense has been on a mission for many years to create a greener military. The variety of strategies are quite surprising as well as the scale at which the strategies are being implemented. This begs the question … why?

A Case for Sustainability

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 00:56:14 +0000

Sustainability has become quite a buzz word as of late. During the last recession, many small and large businesses alike looked for ways to reduce costs and, where possible, increase profits. One of the most obvious ways was to focus on efficiency by reducing overhead, manufacturing and transportation costs. In fact, a trend has emerged where many of these companies have actually become more profitable even with declining sales. This is due to a focus on reducing waste and increasing efficiency which is a big part of what sustainability is all about.

Heat Reflective Paints

Tue, 31 May 2011 21:42:11 +0000

Many types of specialized heat reflective paints are on the market today. These coatings are very popular in hot climates like the southwestern U.S. as well as Australia, Dubai and China. When properly applied, these coatings can reduce the amount of heat that penetrates the building. By reducing the amount of heat that enters the building, the load on the air conditioner is reduced thereby increasing the energy efficiency of a building. So here's an overview of the basics behind this technology.

Service That Air Conditioner

Thu, 26 May 2011 18:04:14 +0000

Why oh why does the air conditioner always quit on the hottest day of the summer? It just so happens to be the most common time because that’s when an air conditioner is working the hardest. It’s due to the heat that is created by the unit added to the heat of the day which equals a great amount of stress for an air conditioner. And good luck finding an air conditioning technician during the summer. If one is available, getting a good deal is unlikely.

Energy Efficiency and Sunlight

Thu, 26 May 2011 01:40:05 +0000

The sun gives life to this planet and, if properly harnessed, it can provide plenty of energy and light. Unfortunately, using sunshine effectively is not as simple as just letting the sun shine. In the winter, we want more when there is less and in the summer we want less when there is more. It seems that these two goals are constantly reversed. Natural sunlight and solar heat gain used to be one of the most underused methods of heating a home, but that is changing.

2010 Was A Great Year for Solar Energy

Wed, 25 May 2011 01:38:57 +0000

It should be no surprise to hear that solar energy is growing at an amazing rate. In fact one would be hard pressed to avoid hearing something about renewable energy in the news. What is surprising is how well it is performing when compared to the U.S. GDP. A report published by Solar Energy Industries Association claims that "the U.S. solar market grew 67% in value in 2010” which is astonishing when compared to a GDP growth of only 2.8%.

Understanding Building Pressure and Air Boundary

Fri, 20 May 2011 23:12:13 +0000

Many forces are at work against and within a building. Some include wind, stack effect, duct leakage and even exhaust fans. These forces cause changes that create positive and negative pressures inside and outside of a building. An air boundary, or air barrier, is used to control airflow and control the loss of conditioned air. Conditioned air is air that has been heated or cooled by a heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) system and is used for temperature control of a living space.

An Innovation in Solar Energy

Wed, 18 May 2011 23:19:16 +0000

Due to the continuing rise in electricity costs, energy reduction and consumption have become a top concern for homeowners today. In fact, a recent study conducted by the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) showed that 49% of homeowners and businesses were considering installing solar panels now as a way of taking control of their energy costs. While most basic solar electric (PV) systems are good, homeowners and businesses can now consider more complete solar solutions. A new innovation in solar technology permits a solar system to generate not only electricity, but also heating, cooling and fresh air ventilation.

Boost Wall Insulation with Insulated Vinyl Siding

Mon, 16 May 2011 23:23:12 +0000

Many people think the only way to boost wall insulation in an existing building is with an invasive procedure. It requires drilling holes between the wall studs and fire breaks and then filling the voids with insulation. These holes are patched and painted but often leaving traces of rework behind. Another approach is available from the vinyl siding industry that can work independently or in conjunction with upgraded wall insulation.

Residential Solar Panels and Resale Value

Fri, 13 May 2011 22:15:01 +0000

For years it’s been touted as common knowledge that energy efficiency and renewable energy raise the overall resale value of a home. Recently Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory released a new study. This study reviewed resale value of homes with solar panels in California and found sufficient data to support the claims of increased resale value.