Tuesday, June 7, 2011

How To Make Schools More Environmentally Friendly

By Mark Walters


Reducing the impact we have on the environment is going to take many years of sustained change in the way we live our lives. While the current level of concern didn't really exist when many of us were younger, we need to make sure that our children grow up with an understanding of why this change is so important. So how can we create more environmentally friendly schools?

One of the easiest and quickest ways schools can help to reduce their impact on the environment, is to look at ways they can save energy. Something as simple as installing energy saving light-bulbs is not only good for the planet, it's also a great way to lower the school's energy bills. As is turning of lights and any other equipment in the school when it's not being used.

Schools have an excellent opportunity to make the most of natural energy sources, to provide themselves with some of the energy they need. With plenty of funding available from various sources, placing solar panels on the top of school buildings, and wind turbines around the school grounds, could help schools reduce their reliance on traditional energy sources, and their impact on the environment.

Schools have an incredible opportunity to provide the latest generation with an education that has a strong focus on the environment, and what they can do to help. Children will grow up wanting to make a difference, if schools teach them about recycling, energy efficiency, and the different renewable energy technologies. All of which will help them to understand the important part they have to play in helping the environment face all its challenges.

Recycling is a great way to get the most out of the earth's resources, and schools should be teaching children about the importance of recycling many of the things we use, as well as providing initiatives to help encourage it. By making recycling a way of life at school, it will help children develop the habit for their adult years.

As well as what takes place inside the school, there are positive changes that could be made outside as well. Each day cars and buses ferry children to and from school, all contributing to the harmful gases we pump into the atmosphere. It's not always possible but, parents making more of an effort to share the school run, and getting more kids to use the bus or perhaps even cycle or walk to school, will be a step in the right direction.

Schools have a lot of potential to improve their environmental credentials, not just by changing how they're run, but by giving their pupils the education that will help them become the environmental champions of tomorrow.




About the Author:



Monday, June 6, 2011

Floor Refinishing Using Green Technologies

By Peter Ransom


In the wake of the "green" movement, increasing numbers of businesses are trying to become more environmentally responsible through a wide variety of implementations such as the use of coiled light bulbs, solar panels and paperless billing. What many companies don't consider, however, is the building itself as well as the typical and often daily methods of cleaning and maintenance, the largest culprit in this oversight being the structure's flooring.

Because there are so many synthetic flooring materials on the market today, including carpet, laminate, epoxy flooring and tile, businesses often will lean toward these because of their seemingly low costs and attractive appearances. However, these materials are at high cost both to the consumer and the environment due to required, frequent replacement and maintenance, as most synthetic materials wear out and become damaged very quickly. Replacement can be very toxic to the environment as well as to people. For example, the manufacturing process used in the production of carpet requires large amounts of oil and water, the latter of which is wasted in huge quantities. In addition, extremely toxic dyes are used in carpet, and often these toxins end up in the water supply. Similarly, tile and laminate production releases large amounts of toxins into the air and water, endangering both people and the environment. Even the installation and removal of these materials is very toxic and can pollute the air immediately.

The materials used to clean and maintain synthetic flooring can present an equal if not increased danger to the environment and the people in it. Chemicals are the most widely used cleaning options for most flooring materials and are often found infiltrating the water system and air. In addition, these chemicals are proven lung, eye and skin irritants. Furthermore, with discontinued or reduced use of these chemicals, synthetic materials such as carpet and tile provide a breeding ground for a slew of allergens, including mold and mildew, making the workplace even more unsafe for employees and customers alike. These allergens also increase the need for replacement of the flooring material, which again releases more toxins into the environment and air.

One solution to all these problems that is often overlooked is the installation of polished concrete floors. In recent years, polished concrete has become widely available in a number of colors and patterns. In addition, it is much more durable and environmentally friendly than the aforementioned materials. An increasing number of water-based dyes have become available with a dry, dust-free grind that is safer for the environment and people and requires no wax or chemical maintenance. And because it lasts so much longer than other flooring materials, it requires far less maintenance and therefore greatly reduces pollution typically created through replacement and cleaning processes.

Having an environmentally friendly material such as polished concrete available facilitates the choice between it and a synthetic material such as carpet or tile. By eliminating the required use of chemicals and toxic processes, adding polished concrete to your business's list of environmentally responsible choices can help your company go "green" with integrity.




About the Author:



Sunday, June 5, 2011

Hybrid Cars vs. Conventional Cars

By Owen Jones


Today, the question on everybody's lips is, what is the real difference between a hybrid car and a conventional vehicle? They suppose that there has to be some good reason why people are debating whether hybrid cars are worth the money and checking their wallets and savings accounts to see if they can afford to buy a hybrid car.

There has to be a decent reason why some people wouldn't consider spending their hard-earned money on a hybrid car because they feel their conventional car takes them wherever they have to go well enough. Here are some of the reasons why a person might decide on a conventional car over a hybrid car.

Hybrid cars are much more expensive than conventional cars: because hybrid cars have a much more complex internal design, they do still have a pretty hefty price tag on them. However, conventional cars, which have become more efficient as the years have gone on, are very affordable these days. Many people are selling their old conventional cars in favour of newer, more efficient versions.

In fact, they are so inefficient, in comparison with new models, that some people even give their old cars away. However, since most of the general population has never owned a hybrid, there aren't many people selling used hybrid cars yet. Therefore, a person looking to buy a hybrid would probably have to purchase a new one from a car showroom.

Both a hybrid car and a conventional car make use of a similar type of battery: a hybrid car and a conventional car both use lead-acid batteries that have enough renewable stored energy to turn over a small electric motor. These batteries are what are called "gear reduced". That means that they can turn over this electric motor at approximately 300 rpms, which generates enough torque to turn over the engine. It is this process that starts the main petrol or diesel engine.

But even though a hybrid car uses a lead-acid battery, the battery it uses to drive the car's electric engine is constructed differently. This kind of battery is known as a 'deep cycle battery' and it can be compared to the batteries that are used to power electric fork-lift trucks, milk floats or golf carts.

That's the major difference between hybrid cars and conventional cars. However, one person could decide to buy a hybrid car because it makes them feel more secure. For example, if a person buys a hybrid car, they can feel safe because their car will be less likely to run out of petrol in the middle of nowhere and yet another person might choose to buy a conventional car because the cost of gas doesn't really figure with them all that much.

Furthermore, a conventional car provides security as well. With a conventional car, a person can be assured that they will always be able go to a junkyard, if they need to and find old parts for their car. On the other hand, those with a hybrid car might have to pay some pretty pricey repair receipts if something goes wrong.

The final decision rests0 solely with you. There are certain minor risks involved with both types of cars. But if you like to experiment with new technology, you might consider splurging out on a new hybrid car next time.




About the Author:



Saturday, June 4, 2011

The Financial Benefits And Drawbacks Of Using Solar Energy

By Mark Walters


More and more home owners are interested in the idea of using natural energy sources to power their homes. Whether it's because they want to help reduce the production of harmful greenhouse gases, or because they like the sound of saving money on their energy bills, solar panels have always been a popular choice for anybody thinking about switching over to natural power. Usually, the only thing that holds a lot of people back is how much it will cost to install a solar power system, and whether or not it is actually worth the investment.

The cost of installing a solar power system in the average home is likely to be in the region of $15,000. If the returns for using more solar power were significant, this would probably seem like a really good idea despite the high price tag. However, this average sized home can probably only expect to reduce their annual energy bill by a couple of hundred dollars. Which means it would take a long time before they saw a return on their initial investment, But when you look at some of the other figures involved, it's actually a different story.

It may cost several thousands of dollars to install solar panels in your home, but you don't have to foot the bill on your own. Thanks to various contributions, rebates and tax breaks from the federal and state governments, as well as regional energy companies, you might only need to find about 10-20% of the actual cost of installing your new solar power system. When you consider this, an investment of $2000 to help you save $200 dollars every year doesn't look so bad, and you could actually be in pocket after about 10 years.

Also, many experts agree that decreasing resources mean that there is likely to be a rise in the cost of energy over the next 5-10 years. Which means those that have already installed solar power systems will be saving even more money, and making an even greater return on the money they invested.

You might be wondering what would happen if you decided that you wanted to move before you'd recouped the money you invested in your solar panels? As your buyers will benefit from the same energy savings, they are likely to pay more for your house, so you could still see a healthy return. The government and other organizations are literally falling over themselves to give you the money you need to install solar panels. So whether it's purely for the environmental benefits, or because you like a good investment, there's never been a better time to switch to natural energy.




About the Author:



Friday, June 3, 2011

When It Comes To Green, Dollars Make Sense

By Dean Prater


The fact of the matter is that one reason our planet has become such a damaged place, when it comes to the environment, is basic human nature. That same determination to advance ourselves that drove the industrialized nations to bring us railroads teeming with black smoke-belching trains and 'miracle' chemicals that were ultimately found toxic can be re-purposed for far better things say capitalism fans. Let's further examine just what money has to do with getting our world to a better place.

The advocates of using entrepreneurial and financially motivated means to bring about green changes say that money can be the real 'eco-revolution'. When it starts to be not only positive, but positively profitable to make changes then we are definitely going to savor the full gamete of changes. Katie Kieffer of Townhall.com wrote a recent column (http://townhall.com/columnists/katiekieffer/2011/04/25/green_technology_needs_capitalism) in which she stated that free market techniques will save the world, so to speak. She mentions that better innovations for the tech industries much needed "rare earths" that are now strip mined in China could be less detrimental for the planet, the companies that lead the way, and our purse strings, as well.

Of course, companies are not the only ones that reap benefits in a green revolution where money matters. Consumers have the ability to receive pay for producing clean energy. The fact is that according to a recent Huffington Post article (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/02/08/solar-power-users-paid-fo_n_820444.html), in the state of Tennessee this is already going on. Several individuals in Nashville receive payments for feeding power back into the grid that come from the solar panel arrays on top of their houses. That is an excellent example of how to really profit from helping make the planet a safer, cleaner and less costly place to live.

Many are now choosing to make a difference and it is saving them money or bringing in even more money than before. Many businesses are looking towards customized reusable bags knowing that the PR this inevitably generates will be positive and, in the long term, quite lucrative. Businesses that have a good public image find success easier to achieve. Even the typical person choosing a store that showcases promotional reusable grocery bags is likely to be shopping in a more conscientious setting where lower prices, or in the very least higher quality products, are quite likely to be found. Really, changes are being seen everywhere.

So do you think money matters when it comes to improving our world? Plenty of examples say yes. If people profit, they really do like to take part in improvements and it leads to a positive experience for them and their families, as well. This is in large part the way that we are coming to witness the power of cash in aiding for a cleaner planet.




About the Author:



Thursday, June 2, 2011

Allow Cleantech PR Show the entire world You've Gone Green

By Alfred Ricks


Many businesses are trying, somehow, some hand on going green and eco- friendly. And to allow the population discover this and get their brand identified at the same time improve the ranking of the company, companies implement green public relations. Companies could easily go as easy as recycle things from components of daily operations. Or it could be proper water and air refinement. There is additionally the ideal solid and waste products administration that could really help out with the surmounting pollution with our entire world.

Therefore together with cleantech PR, everyone can be made aware of the course standard consumer companies are shifting on the way to environment friendly functions. For clean tech companies, public relations will certainly raise the mindset with the public in the know-how and machineries which could battle with the rising global warming. There may also be applications innovations for cleaner, potable water and also the material of protecting energy. Having said that, green PR is not really merely to give such revisions, their news need to have an advantage in order for it to be recognized in addition to identical story lines that will be developing very often.

With regard to businesses seeking to get the best enhance on their label, choose a PR company concentrating on green public relations. A company which has a status rendering very good coverage and getting a high return of investment is an effective business to place your business' public relations demands. The firm that knows how to become number one may lead your company to the top, in the process. With all the changing times, simple traditional public relations are certainly not ample. Going further to the World Wide Web connection and knowledge there is on creating a reputable name the corporation can be a high quality your business will look for in a very PR firm.

You will find a great numbers of businesses that will present your company this kind of products and services. However so as to remain on leading, search somewhat on the working integrity of these company, see if collaboration among purchaser and business gives achievements to the two. When the green public relations organization meets eye to eye with your company's procedures as well as the firm's path, then a union may carry accomplishments for many years. The good results from the business might think on how well their particular consumer is performing on acquiring their identity sturdy and credible.

Cleantech PR of a firm would certainly complement way and tremendously contribute to the accomplishment of the corporation. You understand that your business is in decent hands once the return of investments is great, tantamount to powerful communication to your business' ventures.




About the Author:



Wednesday, June 1, 2011

The Awareness Of V2 Cigs On Our Obligations Towards Natures

By Tobby Eigenmann


The earth earth has continuously and abundantly serves us having its high capacity for keeping life. The forest are everywhere, the v2 cigs coupon, the lakes as well as the forest and the environment already exist. Yet, with alarming development of population, the ways and manners wherein earth's abundant resources are increasingly being burn up. Perhaps it will crossed your mind and make you wonder if how much time the planet can continue to support man's daily needs, like foods, shelters, etc.

Cloud the products are enough to cater the growing demands? During a practical answer, we were able to state that provided that the sun shines and the rain falls we can feel comfortable knowing that the world will never discontinue to supply what's need to sustain life. Would you believe that the world even with its huge amounts of population could still sustain and convey enough food to feed us? HOWEVER, the problem is the appropriate way of food management.

Food is probably inside wrong place. The prices are not fair and friendly for anyone who needs it unlike v2 cigs coupons. The way of handling the meals can consider as one of the reasons why it can be stored long enough. To this day ensuring meals are available for everyone not for the advantage of the crowds however for political reasons. With proper oversight of the planet and the efficient management of its resources there shouldn't be reason to fear for shortage.

This regulators should serve its purpose to avoid the persistent disregarding and exploitation of the planet for selfish personal advantage. They should not only have enough courage to eliminate the mismanagement of the world. Also, ensure that it's going to produce abundantly for its people. However, being an individual we always have to find out our responsibilities towards our environment. By taking proper care of the human nature and keep a smoke free environment such as v2 cigs reviews.

We should always discover how to benefit from our natural resources wisely and we should equip ourselves with knowledge how to take good care in our method to obtain daily needs by using our nature. We are needs to be very grateful because in spite of the environments crisis, it will begin to fulfill the need for everyone to have food in their table.




About the Author: