Posts Tagged ‘Energy Efficiency’

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While “green” has become quite the buzzword when it comes to home building and design, what exactly it means isn’t always clear. There are a few standards for eco-friendly homes, but the term “green” doesn’t have a universal definition beyond being a color made by mixing yellow and blue. So how does a consumer know when a home the builder is calling “green” is actually built with an ecological focus, or at least enough of one to justify its price?

Some of the standards for ecologically minded homes include increased insulation. To be really energy efficient, a home should be insulated beyond the minimum local requirements. This includes floor insulation, which in some cases is built right in to the concrete foundation. In addition to the walls, floors and ceilings, windows should also be insulating. Therefore, double paned and/or vinyl windows are becoming the “green” standard.

Energy efficiency should be continued throughout the home. Low water use toilets are a must, and those that have different flush options are extra eco-concious. These options allow you to have a more efficient flush for solid waste, while liquid waste just gets much more conservative flush. Shower heads, washing machines, faucets and dishwashers can also be equipped to limit the water used without compromising function. Air conditioners, refrigerators, heaters and all other appliances within the home should be of the highest standard of energy efficiency. In addition, compact fluorescent lights should be used throughout the home, or replaced by LED lights wherever those are suitable.

Beyond energy efficiency, use of non-toxic, ar at least less-toxic, materials is important in “green” homes. Look for a home with low VOC paints. VOC stands for volatile organic compounds, which are toxins that gas-off from conventional paint. Remember the lighter the pigment, the lower the VOC’s, so white or off-white walls are healthier than some of the bolder, trendy colors. This is because it is the paint base that is quality controlled, but it is impossible to take the VOC’s out of some pigments.

Another finishing detail that is popular for eco-friendly homes is bamboo or cork flooring. Bamboo is popular because it grows so quickly. It takes about five years to grow bamboo to the right size to make flooring. It is versatile and comes in a variety of styles and colors. Cork is an option because it is sustainable to harvest – removing cork does not damage the cork tree, as it replenishes its cork bark every year anyway. Cork makes a lovely, soft and springy floor surface that is also naturally warmer than many other flooring options.

For our final indoor consideration, eco-friendly homes will use more natural fabrics such as wool and cotton for carpets and window dressings.

Outside the home leaves plenty of room for “green” considerations, too. Xeriscaping is a popular means of landscaping utilizing plants native to the area being built in. These plants are naturally drought-resistant because they are acclimatized to the local environment, needing less watering and maintenance than lawns or beds full of foreign flowers.

Another “green” outdoor trend is utilizing permeable paving stones. These actually absorb water, which then is naturally filtered through the earth and goes back into the ground-water supply. These avoid the toxic run-off that can be caused by water rushing over cement and into drains, carrying oil and exhaust residue straight into the drainage system, which ultimately ends up being a nearby body of water.

If a home you are looking at is being promoted as being “green”, don’t hesitate to ask the builder about some of these features. If they don’t measure up, don’t buy it.

In recent years, the efficiency of refrigerators has increased substantially. Manufacturers have:

• Improved compressors and motors
• Introduced better door seals and compartmentation
• Increased insulation standards

Even though there have been improvements, most fridges and freezers still operate a long way short of the maximum potential efficiency. Average running costs could be cut by half without serious difficulties, as we can see when we realise that the most efficient existing appliances are 50% more effi¬cient than the average. Although a refrigerator uses a relatively small amount of power in use, it is the fact that it is working 24 hours a day 365 days a year, often in the hottest room of the house, that causes it to be one of the highest energy users.

Choosing a new energy-saving triage or freezer:
• Unless you use a large amount of frozen food it makes the most sense to buy a combined fridge-freezer model. The most efficient place for the freezer compartment is at the top so that it can facilitate cooling below.
• If you do buy a separate freezer, then buy a well-insulated chest type which loses far less cold air when opened than an upright.
• Work out carefully the optimum size you need. Both fridges and freezers operate best when at least three-quarters full.
• Automatic defrost models consume far more energy than the manual defrost models. This is because they contain heaters. The fridge is thus working against itself when defrosting and if the fridge is being used inefficiently the energy used can be increased by a further 50%.
• Find a fridge that is well insulated and look for energy efficiency labels.

Energy saving in use
• Energy saving microelectronics have been developed for refrigerators: they help to match the real load on the motor and save up to 20% of energy. These electronics have been incorporated into a special plug called a saverplug which is well worth installing.
• Locate a refrigerator or freezer away from sources of heat such as a stove or direct sunlight. If you have a fridge that is not well insulated you can provide some extra insu¬lation yourself on the top and sides.
• Check the temperature inside the main refriger¬ator compartment and freezer. They should be between 3° to 5°C and -18°to-15°C respectively. If the temperature is outside these ranges then energy is being wasted and the temperature control needs to be adjusted. Fridge and freezer thermometers are well worth buying and placing in your fridge for the occasional check.
• The back of a fridge is a notoriously difficult place to clean. However the coils or fins tend to become sticky and dusty—this acts as an insulant forcing the motor to work harder and waste more energy. Clean with soap and water.
• If you have a manual or partial automatic defrost facility then defrost regularly.
• Test the door seal and check that it is tight. This is equivalent to draught-proofing your fridge. If there is an air leak it can not only lose energy unnecessarily but will require more frequent defrosting.
• Dispose of your fridge where the CFCs can be salvaged. Enquire at your local council to find out where you can take it.

The Energy Smart Community is a scheme that allows you and your local community to join together to improve the energy performance and efficiency of your home, while availing of energy-saving grants from the government.

Anyone can contribute to make our planet a better place to live in. You do not have to hold important position in the state. Just being aware and doing the changes necessary can make you contribute in saving our deteriorating environment. In fact, you can start at home. Familiarize the different green home features and apply it in your home. There are many of these being developed today. If you apply these changes, you will not only help the planet but will also help yourself.

Many want to be part of the green movement. However, very few are aware of the changes they can do at home. To help you be part of the growing number of home owners who are living by this code, here are some few green home features.

Alternative source of energy:

We consume energy at home every day. This means that we are part of the reason why our environment is in the state where it is today. However, we can help change that. Now there are wind turbines and solar panels we can use to generate energy from the wind and the sun. However, this is initially expensive, but just think of the savings you will have in the future.

How the structure is built and what are the materials used:

The manner of building the structure can also affect the environment. There are techniques used to minimize the indoor draft. In addition, it also enhances the insulation as well as the mold in the property and the moisture in it. Moreover, it will also help enhance the energy efficiency. This is what tight construction does.

Aside from the manner of construction, the materials used have to be considered as well. It has to be eco friendly so that it will not harm the environment further. The material is considered green if it helps save energy and water. The components use to produce it should be safe and not toxic. Most importantly, it does not harm the natural resources, which means they are either recycled or salvaged. Among these materials is the sustainable harvested wood. You can use this in the construction of the property. Look for the Forest Stewardship Council Logo to ensure that it is indeed a sustainable harvested wood.

Learn how to be green with the other features at home

You can also be green with the other features at home. You can invest in the insulation, windows, roofing and the exterior siding. All of these will require you to shell out a significant amount initially. However, this will last for a long period. Investing in an eco friendly roof will last for about fifty years. Other materials used will help you save on energy especially in the heating system. If you have the best eco friendly insulation system, you can save more. You do not have to use a lot of energy for the heating system especially if your insulation is paired with the best window material.

There are many opportunities for you to be green and help save the environment. However, you have to be committed. You also have to be open in investing a few extra bucks for materials. You will surely be rewarded because of its long term benefits.

The old technologies use fossil fuels to generate energy. As the same technology was in use for several years, the fossil fuels have depleted. Coal formation requires several thousands of years and it can’t be manufactured artificially. Using non-renewable sources for energy production must be minimized and everyone should look for alternative energy sources.

The refrigerators, air conditioning systems and other electrical appliances that we normally use contribute to global warming. When the temperature of the Earth keeps on increasing at a rapid rate, it will result in disastrous climate changes and many of the islands will be drowned. By using intelligent energy saving techniques, you can not only save energy but also reduce global warming if not stop it completely. Using alterative energy saving methods, energy efficiency can be improved. This will result in direct savings in money, as less energy will be consumed.

Everyone on the planet must take the responsibility to use wind power energy, solar energy and bio energy. The sources of these types of energy are renewable and always available. As energy efficiency concerns many organizations and governments, several experts have come up with different solutions to combat energy saving issues. While there is no single solution that can help save energy, a combination of solutions must be deployed to improve energy efficiency.

It is prime time for everyone to gather together to fight for energy reduction. There have been cases where efficient energy saving mechanism has been deployed to save energy and use alternative energy to obtain clean energy. Without the need to reinvent the wheel, enterprises and individuals looking for energy saving solutions can get access to the technology to improve energy efficiency.

Using wind power energy and solar energy is encouraged in households to save on electricity bills. If more and more people show their willingness in deploying their own wind power stations at home, they can get electricity for free as wind is a renewable resource. Moreover, solar powered stoves and chargers are now widely used to conserve energy.

When everyone tries to save energy and improve energy efficiency, the need to use depleting resources will be greatly reduced. Moreover, clean energy will emit fewer toxic gases slowing down global warming and thus the future generation can live comfortably in the livable planet.

We all know that our planets resources are running out at an ever increasing rate, but did you know that there are some small, simple energy saving tips that you can follow that can save you a lot of money over a year, as well as help save the environment. If you follow all, or even some, of the tips below, you can actually see a real difference to your utility bills.

In a typical modern house, electrical appliances and electronics, such as TV’s and computers, make up about 20% of total energy use.

The first tip is to look for Energy Star labels when you are buying new appliances. Energy Star labels are strict guidelines created by your local governing body which rate the appliance for energy efficiency. You can be assured that appliances which carry this label are as energy efficient as you can get.

Turn Off all Appliances Not in Use: The simplest, and most obvious piece of advice I can give you, but often the most overlooked. Turn off all lights, computers, and electronics when they are not in use. Never use standby mode overnight as it still uses up to 25% of the energy that the appliance consumes when its switched on. Standby mode can also create a fire hazard!

Light bulbs: Use energy saving bulbs instead of the conventional light bulbs. Although energy saving bulbs cost 3-5 times as much as the standard light bulb, they only use one-quarter of the electricity and lasts many times longer. Remember though, that each energy saving bulb contains 5mg of mercury so you will have an extra item to sort in the recycling bin.

Dishes: Always run your dishwasher on a full load – anything less is simply wasting water and energy as it takes the same amount to wash a single plate as it does a full load. Air-dry your dishes instead of using a dryer.

Laundry: Set your wash program to use 40 degree was or less if you can. Instead of using a dryer, air-dry or hang your clothes on a clothes line. As with dishwashers, don’t use the dryer unless you can fill it up.

Refrigerators: Think of what you want to take out before you open the refrigerator. Leaving the door open will waste extra energy.

Take more Showers and fewer Baths: Taking showers instead of baths will reduce water usage and also lower your heating bill. Of course, it’s always great fun to share a bath if you have a willing partner.
Insulate your windows And Doors: Check windows and doors for air leaks. Air leaks can be sealed by caulking or weather-stripping. By securing the leaks in your home, hot and cool air will be kept in your home longer. Less heating and cooling will help you save on energy costs.

Lag your loft and insulate your walls. If your home will allow it you should immediately lag your loft with good quality fibreglass insulation. Almost 80% of the heat lost from a house is lost by convection through the roof space. Loft insulation is the single most effective way to reduce your heating costs – a significant part of your overall energy bill. If you have cavity walls, you should also seek to insulate them using a specialist service. Again, like loft insulation, although this can be a bit expensive, the long term savings will more than pay for the cost of the work.

With energy efficiency and green technologies at the forefront of everyone’s minds we’re all thinking about how we can improve the green performance of our homes. The usual methods of improving heat retention with double glazing and insulation as well as the possibility of utilising some green technologies such as boilers are something we can all do. However when it comes to building a new home, take a look at these magnificent green design masterpieces. Combining such luxury with such energy consciousness is a real achievement.

Crossway: Kent, England

This magnificent four bedroom family home is essentially one large timbrel vault and is situated in the lush Kent countryside.  It was built with minimising the need for gas, water & electricity in mind whilst being light, airy and spacious at the same time. As well as using local materials and tradesmen to benefit the immediate area, it was ensured that green targets were met through the use of the highest quality insulation, triple glazing and total air tightness. Its design really is unique, the interior is magnificent and it’s totally carbon neutral!

Lux et Tepidus: Toronto, Canada

This stunning 3500 square foot home is even aligned slightly out of joint with the passing street for better solar energy alignment, the exterior is constructed of structural insulated panels and all interior partitions made of wood-stud. A south facing, massively glazed wall maximises light and solar heat entering the house straight onto a slate covered masonry wall which provides thermal mass as well as looking stunning! This is a truly striking & luxurious property both inside and out and the eco features are engrained perfectly within the design.

Woods End: Norfolk, England

Set in two acres of woodland in the Norfolk countryside, this impressive 3000 square foot eco-home was the 2009 winner of TV competition ‘I Own Britain’s Best Home’. Built from the ground up by Amanda Barrington, the home costs only £500 a year to heat and fully utilises solar gain as well as the stunning woodland landscape and passing stream to do so. The simple & modern yet homely style of both the build and the interior fit the surroundings perfectly and it has won many design, architectural and green awards. This luxurious yet energy efficient project works seamlessly and is definitely worth the title of Britain’s best home.

Heather’s Home: Weatherford, Texas, USA

This amazing eco-build was the first home in the state of Texas to receive LEED for Homes Platinum Certification and amazingly for Texas the heating/cooling bill averages only $20 to $30 a month! Built at around $117 per square foot, the house features numerous green technologies including a rainwater collection system and a water heater that needs no tank and is powered by rooftop solar panels. Again the interior is stunning and all the eco-features are seamlessly engrained, another perfect example of luxury and sustainability working hand in hand.

The Costa Mesa Green Home: Orange County, California, USA

Another home to be the first to receive Platinum Certification, this time it’s a first for Orange County in California. At a massive 5000 square foot it is the largest and possibly most luxurious of those featured and exceeds the local energy efficiency targets by a massive 40%! This stunning green project has optimised solar orientation and is built with sustainable materials throughout. It also features numerous energy efficient technologies including intelligent ventilation, a state-of-the-art green HVAC (heating, ventilation & air conditioning) system and energy star lighting. Creating energy efficiency in such a massive, contemporary and luxurious property is definitely a remarkable achievement.

You may not have thought about it when you purchased that foreclosed home.  But buying a foreclosed property can definitely be an opportunity to green. HOW?

First off, buying an existing home instead of building a new one will decrease the demand on material like trees and other natural products that it takes to build a new home.

Secondly, most foreclosure that I have seen are in need of repairs. Because there are in need of those repairs is why they are price so well. When you purchase a foreclosure and start making those repairs, you can turn the home into a home that is greener than what is was. All you have to do is when remodeling the home, make sure you use material and products that are Green Friendly.

Here are 10 ideas to thinks about when converting you foreclosed home into a Green Home.

Lower utility and water bills. Having energy-efficient appliances in the kitchen and media room can reduce monthly utility bills. Tankless water heaters mean less time and water wasted waiting for water to warm up in the sink or shower. Healthier indoor air quality. Green-certified homes offer reduced exposure to mold, mildew and other indoor toxins. This is especially beneficial to sufferers of asthma and bronchial disorders. Tax benefits. DSIRE is a database of state incentives for renewable energy and energy efficiency. Through the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the U.S. government offers several tax breaks and incentives for efficiency upgrades to homes. The Department of Energy offers federal tax incentives. The USGBC lists local tax breaks. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also offers sources for green funding, as does the Energy Star program. Higher real estate resale value. According to an article in Business Wire, on the one-year anniversary of the Northwest Multiple Listing Service’s addition of green-design search features to its property listings database, analysis shows that new and existing green-certified homes in King County sell in up to 18 percent less time and for 28 to 37 percent higher value per square foot. Improved durability and less maintenance. Certain green building materials, such as bamboo floors, are easy to clean or require less maintenance than traditional carpet flooring. Reduced waste sent to landfills. Modular homes are built in factories that recycle the waste generated during the construction process and leave less waste at the construction site. Many green homes often use recycled building materials. Enhance and protect biodiversity and eco-systems. Using xeriscaping and native landscaping reduces needed irrigation. Conserve and restore natural resources. Harvesting gray water saves on water bills. Composting saves money ordinarily spent on fertilizer and sends less waste to landfills. Alternative energy sources means a home neither contributes to rolling blackouts nor is it as badly affected by them. Better for the environment. In the U.S., homes are responsible for 21 percent of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions, according to the USGBC. Living in a green home means that you are helping reduce the causes of climate change. Using local materials means less fuel is used when shipping exotic materials from other countries and ensures fair trade and labor issues. Optimize life cycle of a home. The greenest homes are sustainable, meaning they are built to last and work effectively for generations.

There is nothing like that profoundly satisfying feeling of living in a environmentally friendly built home.  You can also be one of the many of people who have retrofitted and older residence and updated it with sustainable materials.  Undeniably, this type of home is not only a a true sanctuary but also a a great deal healthier space to stay. 

With years though you might find yourself in a circumstances where you have got to part with your much beloved house for excellent.  The only pickle is you’ve tied up quite a bit of money into it and now have a bit of an apprehension whether you will be able to regain the investment.  So how do you unearth a purchaser now that will actually buy into your excitement and cash out extra dough to buy your eco-friendly pad?

Recent market trends and a growing sentiment that green living brings about positive effects on your health and the environment is bound to be the reasons for your success.  While more data still needs to be gathered from all over the country, we are gradually learning how green homes are in fact selling faster and receive top dollar.

GreenWorks Realty in Washington State decided to investigate whether the eviro-certified homes, or “ECert” as they call them, sell any better.  Surprisingly, the results showed they flew off the market 18% faster and sold for 29-37% higher value per square foot.  The cause this type of records is not available from all Counties yet is exceedingly simple – local Multiple Listing Services (MLS) have not incorporated the energy efficiency and “eco smart” features into their records search fields.  For now, we must remain patient and wait until all listing boards update their search fields and provide more data supporting our hopes. 

Before you simply smack your property on the MLS with a realty company, you’ll need to sincerely consider and select a winning strategy.  After all, your home has so much to offer but how do you find a buyer who “gets it”?  Who and where are these folks in the first place?  Be ready to expose your home to three different mindsets:

1. Economizers.  This is the type that is interested in savings on the operational costs and energy efficiency.  Also in this category are investors who are eyeing at life-cycle cost analysis and the value of various green features that can enhance their cash flow.  For economizers the almighty cash is the ruler and all the rest of the environmental fanaticism is secondary.   

2. Idealists.  This is your archetypal Organicsons family.  They take eco friendly living very seriously and believe that conservation of resources and preserving the planet is a social responsibility.  They are willing to surrender some comforts for more eco wise lifestyle choices.  The Organicsons are also very wellbeing conscious and easily appreciate health benefits of living in a green residence. 

3. Eco-Chic (pronounced – Eco-Shique) – these are the brand chasing Paris Hilton breeds who go after the most recent fads and believe that living environmentally friendly is just plain “tight”.  They are engrossed in the status and prestige of eco friendly living but may not necessarily truly subscribe to the green mind set.  The newest eco wise gadgets or installing the hottest eco smart feature in their homes and looking fashionable is more imperative than having a positive effect on the ecosystem.  Frankly, who cares… they get to be hip and the earth benefits also. 

When designing a marketing strategy, be aware that eco friendly choice is not a one hat fits all style of tactic.  Certain buyers could fit neatly into one of these categories and certain ones will have a character of all three.  The recipe is to be aware of all of their desires and wishes when selling a home. 

Here are the action steps you’ll want to take to trade your home fast and for a higher value:

1. Locate a real estate agent who clearly understands the challenge you are facing.  Your Realtor should have one of the two designations: NAR’s GREEN or EcoBroker.  They have proper training and understand the mindset of a green house buyer.  More importantly, search for an agent to whom “eco friendly” is not just a marketing word but a passion.  Examine their knowledge on broader issues than home selling to get an idea of who you’ll be working with.

2. Collect all the receipts and proof of environmentally friendly remodeling or construction and put a binder together for the purchaser.  If you have one, produce your Home Energy Ratings (HER) report; it’ll demonstrate how much more efficient your house really is.  Make it clear and tangible information that they can take to the bank.

3. Clearly identify the value and Return on Investment (ROI) for the environmentally friendly improvements you’ve made.  Make sure a three year old can recognize why they should pay more for this residence.  For illustration, demonstrate that the property could have 100-350 dollars in energy savings when it comes to a classic dated mammoth down the street.  This could contribute up to 3,000 in savings per year.  Make sure your real estate agent has the skillfulness to communicate this data and sell the value.  Put together a video clarifying all the benefits of owning this home and recommend more resources like links or magazines for the buyers to get more education about the features that your dwelling has to offer.

4. Avoid using words like “green” or “eco friendly” on all of your marketing collateral.  Do not even use it on the MLS narrative.  Consumers are absolutely over stimulated with empty environmental slogans.  Keep in mind, you did not make this home “green”, you made it more energy and resource efficient.  Sell benefits, not hype. 

5. Create excitement.   Don’t endeavor to sell your dwelling in the habitual way.  Eco friendly buyers are typically a younger crowd, that like to be pleasantly surprised before they buy anything.  Stage your residence mindfully to show exceedingly obviously that you  living in it very much.  Most realtors recommend to depersonalize the house.  In general this is good advice but here you are going for a slightly different approach.  Share a story of what inspired you to make this property green and what benefits it brought to your family and your health. 

When all is considered, most buyers will cash out more for your dwelling for the same motivation they will jump on a waiting list and pay a premium to get a hybrid auto.  After all is taken into account, everything seems to make good sense.  If you pick the right Realtor to represent you and go along with these steps you should have no issues selling your residence 25% faster than a regular time frame and at a minimum of 5% higher than other homes on the block.  Much success!

The Magnets 4 Energy e-book is more than just a plan for a Do It Yourself (DIY) magnetic generator. A magnetic generator uses the natural pulling and pushing forces to create the kinetic energy needed to spin an electric dynamo. The power produced can be used to supplement a home energy supply to reduce electricity bills.

However, there are many easy and simple steps you can take which will reduce your house power usage. The following are 10 energy saving tips as recommended in the Magnets 4 Energy manual:

1) Have better insulation – One of the biggest energy expenses for a home is on heating, ventilation and air-conditioning system (HVAC). Any steps taken to improve this area will reduce your home electric consumption substantially.

One method of reducing HVAC cost is to have a better home insulation. With good insulation, your home will have a better heat retention during winter therefore cutting your heating cost.

2) High energy efficiency appliances – How old are your home electrical appliances? Old devices tend to use more energy. Modern electrical equipment uses less power. It would be a good investment which will pay for itself in the long run.

3) Florescent lighting – You can reduce your energy bill by simply replacing incandescent light bulbs with compact florescent bulbs (CFL). Although CFL costs more, it uses 4 times less energy and last on average 8 times longer compared to an incandescent light bulb.

4) Reduce phantom power user – Some electric devices such as computer, TV, microwave etc use electricity even when it is on Standby mode. It is a good idea to just unplug them when not in use.

5) Reduce home temperature – During winter time, try setting your living room temperature a few degrees lower. The environment is still relative comfortable. If it gets too cold, just put on a sweater.

6) Use water efficiently – The amount of water used at home indirectly affects your household expenses. To save money, use a low-flow shower head to cut water consumption.

7) Replace filters – Some electrical appliance such as air conditioning unit or furnace has air filtration system. You can increase the device efficiency by simply replacing its filter regularly.

Avoid using batteries – When possible, try not to use any alkaline based batteries. Use the rechargeable type. They may cost more, but it is cheaper on the long run.

9) Buy locally – When you shop for goods made locally, you are reducing the amount of energy needed to ship the goods to your home. By buying locally, you save money because it is cheaper.

10) Walk or use a bicycle – Using a bicycle or walking does not reduce your home expenses directly. It does reduce your total money spent on energy. When you walk or use a bicycle, you save money by not purchasing any gasoline.

As Techsavy become increasingly more environment conscious, PC manufacturers are tending to stay in step with a conscientious approach towards the issue of global warming which encouraged them to come up with a new generation of computers – Green PC.

Aiming at reducing the e-waste in the environment, these eco-machines enjoy a number of advantages that make them superior over conventional PCs. Green PCs or “Eco Friendly Computers” as they are commonly known as, use a fraction of the electricity of a normal PC–energy efficient 45W, contrary to usual 200W.

Green Computers do not contain the hazardous materials like brominated flame retardants, PVCs, and eliminate the dangers of heavy metals as lead, cadmium, and mercury, which are generally used in computer manufacturing. The parts used in eco friendly computers are designed out of recycled steel, aluminum, and plastic. Their screen can also be even made out of wood. This certainly underlines the component of fashion in sustainable living!

One of the biggest factors making computers an environmental menace is its dumping. According to the data showcased by recent surveys, around two million PCs are dumped in UK landfills every year. This causes soil infertility as most chemicals end up in the soil. The situation is worst in Asia, where much of the West’s useless equipment ends up.

As opposed to traditional computer equipment, green computers save energy and are easier to upgrade and recycle, thereby making your investment worth the money. Green PCs are no doubt a significant step taken towards the monumental objective of tackling changes in climate.

Using environment-friendly products in an efficient system, green computing solutions attempt to address the factors making a negative impact on environment.

Green computing solutions focus on increasing economic viability of the product, maximizing its energy efficiency, and biodegradability of a futile product. Many IT companies including the prominent names like Wipro have already gone green whereas a few others are in process to come up with their eco-friendly computers.

The introduction of Green PCs is likely to push environmental versions of all consumer products soon. They are more similar to a small piece of a large jigsaw puzzle.

Green home experts are of the opinion that a more environmentally friendly home can also be healthier and more comfortable. Improve your homes and make it more environment friendly by using environment friendly products, this way you can increase the energy efficiency of your building too.

More and more people are going in for sustainable buildings due to its advantages. Use of straw made out of oats, wheat, sunflower hulls or rice could be a good option for fiber board. It basically uses agricultural waste made out of food, materials which is bio degradable and can be used as compost. Soya based resins can be used instead of the chemical adhesives or solvents which is other wise used for bonding process. Bamboo cutting boards and bamboo countertops are also popular in the home market. Other products to watch are made from coconut hulls and fast growing reeds. While green products are important to constructing a green home, they shouldn’t be the only consideration. The benefits of green building – energy efficiency, water efficiency, durability, healthy indoor air -are achieved through effective design, construction, and installation, in addition to materials. Some paints contain heavy metals, formaldehyde, and ethylene glycol, which are added as pigments, drying agents, or fungicides. Paints also contain solvents, which allow paint to evaporate to a solid film after it’s applied to a surface. The solvents often contain VOCs, which can pose health risks to painters and homeowners who breathe the fumes. Such paints should be avoided.

With this, you make an effort towards reducing the construction industry’s carbon footprint. Also consider resource utilization, proper disposal, recycling of left over materials and not waste them. Green building experts often strive to achieve both ecological as well as aesthetic harmony between a structure and its surrounding natural and built environment. However, the appearance and style of sustainable buildings is not necessarily differentiated from their less sustainable counterparts. The life of the building project is to have a positive and a long term impact on the surrounding community and, by extension, the environment in general. Many other techniques, such as using packed gravel for parking lots instead of concrete or asphalt to enhance replenishment of ground water, are used as well.

Eliminate the impact of buildings on the environment and human health by practicing a green building concept. Renewable resources are made use of to increase the energy efficiency of the building as well as reduce any hazardous impact on the environment. Photovoltaic techniques, passive solar and active solar techniques are used as renewable resources. The philosophy of designing a green building is to put in harmony the natural features and resources surrounding the site.

Energy saving windows can be introduced to any development in an attempt to provide better insulation and therefore help to reduce energy bills. With energy prices at an all time high, this option is becoming increasingly appealing to homeowners and businesses wishing to save money.

PVCu and Timber windows are commonly offered with energy saving options. Energy efficient windows are usually achieved through the use of an energy efficient profile design with a specially selected glazing option such as argon filled gas. There are a wide range of glazing options that allow an energy efficient window to achieve increased energy savings.

Energy efficient windows can be accredited to a range of industry standard energy saving marks.

In the UK, the BFRC energy ratings scheme is one of the most comprehensive systems available to demonstrate the thermal properties of various window designs. The BFRC labelling scheme is based on a traffic light system and offers energy ratings of A to E. Companies are able to offer pvcu and timber windows under the scheme providing they have had each model of window tested and approved.

The Energy Saving Trust also offer an accreditation scheme and allow companies to offer windows as energy saving recommended products if they meet the specified requirements.

Energy efficiency is also becoming more important for homeowners due to house value factors and the environment. Although the initial investment may be considerably high, installing energy saving windows on a property could provide these benefits.

Energy saving windows can be designed and manufactured to reflect the style of standard PVCu windows and can in many cases provide the same comprehensive range of glazing and accessory options.

It’s human nature. We’re always eager to explore the newest product, especially the ones touted to improve our lives. At the same time, we can be skeptical about new product technologies, and it can be hard to decide what, and whether, to buy. This is certainly the case with energy-saving light bulbs. The Energy Independence and Security Act, passed in December of 2007, started the clock ticking on the end of the inexpensive and reliable incandescent light bulb. While it’s true that a few bulb manufacturers have flirted with the idea of nudging the energy efficiency of Mr. Edison’s classic up enough to meet the law’s requirements, it now appears likely that U.S. consumers will need to convert to 21st century green light bulbs for most uses starting in 2012.

The mainstream media has been full of news about the coming light bulb revolution. In the last week of May alone, both The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times ran high profile articles addressing emerging trends on CFL (Compact Fluorescent Lamps) and LED (Light Emitting Diode) bulbs.

Since they cost more than traditional bulbs, most people buy energy-saving light bulbs for two main reasons: they save money in the long run and they’re better for the environment. Specifically, because green light bulbs use much less energy to produce the same amount of light, they reduce harmful gas emissions from coal-fired power plants (which generate 50% of the electricity used in the United States).

So consumers should immediately replace all their incandescents with energy-saving light bulbs, right? Well, not so fast. With lighting, quality matters especially in our homes where we gather, read, cook, eat, celebrate and entertain. There’s a perception that green light bulbs require sacrificing light quality. Don’t believe it. Many eco-friendly light bulbs cast soft, beautiful light. And no one should feel guilty about not switching out every fixture containing a regular light bulb. Invest first in replacing the bulbs used most frequently. Savings will be bigger and pay back periods shorter with this approach. And truth be told, there are scenarios where the best bulb is the old-fashioned incandescent.

7 Keys to Choosing the Best Green Light Bulbs for Your Home or Office

Choosing from the many energy-saving light bulbs on the market today can be tricky. Gone are the days when all that mattered was bulb wattage and shape.

By keeping these seven simple guidelines in mind, you’ll be on a path to making smart decisions about what to buy to meet your needs for energy-saving light bulbs in this new green age:

1. Pay more, not less – to save money in the long run, your new green light bulbs should be able to last for several thousand hours. If you buy the cheapest ones you can find, the odds are greater that they won’t.

2. Pick your spots – if a fixture is completely enclosed or is lit for less than 15 minutes at a time and less than two hours a day, CFLs are a poor investment. Low energy, mercury-free halogens are available that are worth a look in these situations. Wait until the existing bulb burns out (or hold onto it for later use – see #6).

3. Nobody likes the blues – the bluish light cast by many fluorescent tubes is not appealing to most homeowners. When buying CFLs and LEDs choose “warm white” or “soft white” labels for color that will look pleasingly familiar. Energy-saving light bulbs labeled “cool white,” “natural light,” or “daylight” are blue-hued and best for targeted applications like reading, task lighting and exterior fixtures, not for living areas, atmosphere or accent lighting.

4. Dimming for dummies – most CFL and LED bulbs can’t be used with dimmer switches. Look for green light bulbs that are boldly labeled “dimmable.” And while the industry has made great strides in recent years, most energy-saving light bulbs do not dim as well as traditional incandescent bulbs. However, the big energy savings are compelling for most homeowners. Making the switch to dimmable CFLs or LEDs in a busy family kitchen can be a real money saver, including reduced cooling costs because neither type generates as much heat as incandescents. Last point: the dimmer switch should be compatible with the green light bulbs you buy.

5. Let’s do the twist – spiral or “twister” CFLs are the least expensive type. If these green light bulbs are hidden behind a shade (though not totally enclosed), buying a spiral lamp will cut the payback period versus glass covered CFLs.

6. Stay out of the closet – most closets need short bursts of instantaneous light. This is usually true of powder rooms, basements, attics and garages. Among energy saving light bulbs, CFLs in particular aren’t suited for this purpose. Traditional bulbs (or again, low energy halogens) are best in these scenarios until something better comes along.

7. Innovative, intriguing, expensive – mercury-free LED bulbs are the future of lighting, case closed. These green light bulbs use less electricity than even CFLs and they last 30,000 hours or more. However, current prices per bulb are as high as $100, which means the payback period for most home-based uses is too long to justify the price. If you are curious about this new technology and live in an area with high retail electricity costs, you might consider LED replacement bulbs for one or two fixtures that get a lot of use (6+ hours per day). Re-read Key #1 before you invest in these types of energy-saving light bulbs.

Ignore the Naysayers – Green Light Bulbs Are Here to Stay

One last point: mercury makes CFLs (and fluorescent tubes for that matter) work. Some serious people, including syndicated columnist George Will, say we should avoid energy-saving light bulbs for this reason. We disagree. Coal-fired electricity generation is the largest contributor of mercury to the environment. Through reduced electricity consumption, a single CFL will keep a lot more mercury out of the environment over its lifetime than it contains. Still, releasing any mercury into the environment is a bad idea, so it’s important to recycle CFLs when they stop working. Recycling your used green light bulbs is getting easier all the time. Visit www.lamprecycle.org for resources.

Green light bulbs are here to stay. This is good news for our wallets and our world because the cheapest, cleanest kilowatt of electricity is the one that is never produced in the first place. Become smart enough to buy the right energy-saving light bulbs and don’t look back.