-- What is Renewable Energy

What is Renewable Energy? Renewable energy is that source of energy that does not diminish and gets their replenishment of energies from other natural sources like wind, sun, flowing water, geothermal flows of heat and biological processes.

With the depletion in resources of fossil fuel there seems to be a growing demand for solutions that can generate the same output but will not die out at the same time. Using renewable energy resources also is environmentally friendly as we are only taking what nature has to offer, and generating energy from it.

Almost 18 % of energy consumption globally was from renewable energy sources in the year 2006. The Geysers in United States, California is one of the world's largest geothermal installations. The leader in Ethanol fuel is Brazil, this fuel drawn out of sugarcane, is used to drive vehicles. The highest ownership in household solar is Kenya, where most of the households draw their energy from solar power stations.

With so much happening globally in terms of renewable resources, several countries now have passed legislations that will help increase its use. This has seen a trend in increase in market demand for newer technologies in the renewable energy resource industry.

Renewable energy is definitely cost effective and since it can be renewed there is no fear of running out of that source of energy since it is Mother Nature that renews it. As renewable energy resources offer a definitive supply of energy it definitely reduces the dependency on other non renewable energy supplies. Use of renewable energy is also environmentally friendly as it reduces the emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, making it possible for a cleaner and greener environment.

The use of renewable energy is currently recorded at 15.5% gross in Denmark and is higher than 27% of other generated electricity. By the year 2025, the Danish government proposes to see an increase in the renewable energy consumption upto 30%
The various types from where energy can be drawn are;

Solar Thermal Energy

Wind Power
Photovoltaic's
Wave Power
Hydropower
Biomass
Geothermal Energy
Biogas
Biofuel Technologies
Heat Pumps
Waste Incineration

The energy that we now use like petrol and gas are all drawn from non renewable resources, and with it being exploited to the fullest, it won't be long when we run out of these sources. Why not make use of what Mother Nature has to offer!

The author recommends visiting http://www.energymap.dk for finding information on global warming, climate changes, bio energy, renewable energy, wind power energy, clean energy, climate solutions, energy saving and energy reduction as well as get knowledge of energy efficient materials and equipment.

Author: Henning M
more »

-- Environmental Technologies

Human activities have resulted in a lot of waste being produced along with sinful damage to the environment. It is essential for managing the ever growing pollution globally and this can be done with effective management and technology. To reduce the impact of pollution that is caused by industrialisation and the constant abuse to the environment in general it is essential for technologies to come forward to minimize the effects inorder to conserve the environment.

If there is a steady dip in energy polluting emissions because of its consumption, it will see a definite increase in efficient technologies that will aim at providing a resourceful and cleaner solution, thereby reducing waste disposal issues. It is therefore necessary to create processes that are both friendly to the environment and as well as economically. One example that can be cited is of the traditional use of petroleum and coal for the use of energy can be replaced by solar power which is environmentally friendly as well.

Some Technologies involved in building and keeping the environment alive are;

Water purification is of great importance worldwide, and with the world consumption of water only increasing it is imperative that water is cleaned for the environment. There are several activists and campaigns that are organised the world over and are engaged in helping to purify water.

Recycling is a method by which items can be recycled in such a way that it is viable for usage all over again. This is a phenomena that has caught on worldwide and also helps protect the environment from being used all over again to produce utilities like recyclable paper, cans etc. This reduces the waste pollution in the world.

Sewage treatment is almost similar to that of water purification. This treatment ensures that impurities in water are removed with regards to levels in pollution. Polluted water cannot be used and water that is treated and impurities taken off can be supplied, since clean non polluted water is what can be used.

Solid waste management is the disposal, reuse, purification, treatment and consumption of solid waste material and is usually the responsibility of the ruling government of the town or city and if done appropriately is known as waste management.

Renewable Energy is energy that is drawn from renewable sources like water, sun and wind. And effectively using it to our advantage will help ensure that materials like wood,

petroleum and coal do not get extinct.

With proper and efficient Environmental Technology management, we can surely make sure that our environment is treated with respect.

The author recommends visiting http://www.energymap.dk for finding information on global warming, climate changes, bio energy, renewable energy, wind power energy, clean energy, climate solutions, energy saving and energy reduction as well as get knowledge of energy efficient materials and equipment.

Author: Henning M
more »

-- Wastewater Treatment with biodegradable flocculants: Power of `natto`

Just by adding and stirring (1 agent, 1 process) 'PG alpha 21Ca' to polluted water, it separates supernatant water with better turbidity, BOD, and COD, and sediments in a short time. This high-molecular flocculent adsorbs strongly the exogenous incretion disturbance substance (Environmental hormone ), like dioxin.

By using this high-molecular flocculent, it is possible to draw and collect easily floc (flocculated contaminants) with magnetism. As a result, the process of filtration becomes unnecessary. The process of filtration occupies the large portion of cost of the water treatment. Also it is possible to use combining with the existing flocculent.

Compare to the traditional processing system with PAC or polymer coagulant, it enables simple and secure process by just installing volumetric powder feeder.

What is Polyglutamic Acid (PGA)? Principal component of Natto’s gooey Nylon-structure-like polymer.

Because of its safeness, it is used for medicine’s capsule, food, cosmetic product, and medicinal product.

Not only Natto but also Natto bacillus is used to get polyglutamic acid, and since it uses very difficult technology to take it out, the product results in high cost.

Features: - Fast formation of flocs and their fast precipitation. - 4 approved patents. 10 pending. - Can take care of dioxin. - Can be used for a wide range of pH (4-12) of water. - Small changes in pH compared to other methods. - It is very safe since its ingredients are natural. - Can effectively remove heaby metals in water. - Can reduce cost of sludge treatment since proportion of water in flocs is quite low. ($0.01/Litre) - Can be used together with other flocculants, such as PAC.

Natural mineral = Calcium sulfate Calcium carbonate Sodium carbonate Aluminum sulfate

Cross-linked PGA = Polyglutamic Acid

Necessary dosage is really depending on the wastewater condition. However, 50ppm if used for typical pond water. 100ppm is a good starting point to test industrial wastewater.

Poly-Glu has been used to treate from pond water to red tide.

Video clip from documentary TV, "Gaiya no Yoake" (English Subtitled)


Author: Shin Mitsuda
more »

-- Geothermal (GeoExchange) Heat Pump Technology is Poised to Support Economic Recovery and Long-Term

The stimulus package is intended to create and save 3.6 million jobs and jumpstart the economy with economic recovery tax cuts and targeted investments. In addition to putting money back in the pockets of consumers and businesses, the package also includes provisions that will help achieve long-term goals, such as improving energy efficiency in both the public and private sectors. Among those provisions, the plan calls for a disbursement of $6.9 billion to state and local governments for energy efficiency upgrades and the reduction of carbon emissions, which amounts to an average of $100 million to each state. By investing a portion of this $100 million in rebates or low interest loans to homeowners who replace their old fossil fuel or electric furnaces with geothermal heat pumps, the country would definitely make progress toward the goals of the stimulus package. States that have invested in similar programs were able to create hundreds of green collar jobs while significantly increasing energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.

Green Jobs. An additional state $2,000 rebate on the purchase of a geothermal heat pump – or the availability of low interest loans – could generate an additional 200 heat pump sales every month in a typical state, or 2,400 geothermal heat pump unit sales at the end of the first year. Further, every 18 heat pump installations can create one new job. By the end of the first year that means 133 new green collar jobs can be created (2,400 units divided by 18 installations per job). At $2,000 per unit, the total cost of a job creation/energy efficiency rebate program would be $4.8 million over the course of a year.

Every geothermal heat pump requires 24 hours of manufacturing labor and 32 hours of installation labor. Small businesses involved in the installation include heating and air conditioning contractors, electricians, plumbers, excavators and drilling machine operators. These businesses have the capacity and technical skills to begin installing green geothermal technology in more homes immediately.

Reduced Carbon Footprint. In addition to creating jobs, a rebate program and the ensuing installation of geothermal heat pumps would cut an average four metric tons of carbon emissions per year per unit due to the high energy efficiency of geothermal heat pump technology. This means that for the average unit life of 24.4 years, 97.6 metric tons of emissions could be eliminated over the lifetime of each unit, and 234,240 tons over the lifetime of every 2,400 units sold through a state rebate program.

A recent report published by Oak Ridge National Laboratory estimated that aggressive deployment of GHPs could achieve 35 to 40 percent of a recommended carbon reduction path for the U.S. building sector. The full report can be downloaded at ornl232.geoexchange.org

If every state takes at least five percent of the funding available through the energy efficiency portion of the stimulus package and invests it in a geothermal heat pump incentive, there couldn’t be a more cost effective, greener way to put people back to work, save fossil fuel, reduce carbon emissions and save homeowners thousands of dollars per year for the next 24 years. It’s the stimulus that keeps on stimulating.

Economic Recovery. The stimulus package funding is critical to a U.S. heating and air conditioning industry that has been hit hard by the recession. The collapse of the residential new construction market and the lack of consumer financing have slammed the industry over the past two years, and heating system sales were down to levels not seen since 1970.

Geothermal heat pumps are built by manufacturers in the United States at domestic plants

in nine states, and geothermal heat pump systems are operating and saving energy in all 50 states and are being exported around the globe.

For more information contact the Geothermal Heat Pump Consortium at 888.255.4436 or www.GeoExchange.org or the GeoExchange Forum .

Author: Penny Smith

more »

-- Did you know the earth can heat and cool your home while saving on energy costs over the long term?

Just below the earth's surface, the temperature remains relatively constant throughout the year by absorbing half the sun's energy. Geothermal heat pumps tap into this natural ground source of energy reducing heating costs up to 60%, and cooling costs by 25% in summer months. GHP's have three components: a ground heat pump, a closed pipe system, and the air delivery system. Buried in the ground is the closed loop, which is a continuous loop of polyethylene pipe. It's filled with water or an anti-freeze solution and connected to an indoor heat pump, forming an underground loop. The system circulates water through underground pipes that ultimately carry water through the home’s air transfer unit. In the heating mode, the liquid in the pipes is cooler than the ground. In the cooling mode, the soil is cooler than the liquid.

Geothermal technology has been around for a while, but is gradually becoming more popular. A geothermal system costs about twice as much as a conventional heating and cooling system; however, the energy savings combined with the new tax credit on these systems, most people make their investment back in three to five years. In Florida, that could mean a savings of up to $40 a month on air conditioning bills.

Author: Art Smith
more »

-- Does Chloramine In Water Pose A Grave Danger?

Although a necessary evil in order to protect us from the threat of waterborne disease, chloramine in water poses at least as grave a danger. The number of people that die every year from the diseases caused by microscopic parasites and bacteria in their water supply is staggering. Every country in the world needs to have a disinfection system in place for their water supply.

Out of all of the chemicals that man has invented over time, those of chloramines are the family of chemicals that are the best suited for keeping our water clean. They are able eradicate the vast majority of the microbial threats found in our drinking water, which others have failed to do. Let’s take a look at why it is widely thought that these chemicals could be as dangerous as the diseases that they protect us from.

The introduction of chloramine in water came about more than a century ago. The main component then was chlorine, which would later become famous as the chlorine or mustard gas that was used as a chemical weapon during the course of World War I. This agent proved to be highly effective at killing humans during this period, so what made the people of the time think that it was safe to use as a disinfectant?

The truth is that many of those people did not trust these chemicals, and advised against their use. These folks were overruled however, and it has taken nearly one hundred years of compiled data to show the scientific and medical communities that the naysayers had it right. Waterborne disease may kill you quickly, but the chloramines family will kill you just as outright.

What was discovered during the last century is that since the inception of chlorine disinfection the rate of cancer in the countries that practice drinking water disinfection rose dramatically. It has been claimed by some that chloramine in water is directly responsible for why these numbers have risen at such a startling rate.

You have to take measures now in order to ensure that the same fate does not befall you or your loved ones, as has befallen so many over the years. There are reasonably priced measures that you can take that will effectively prevent chloramines, and other cancer causing agents in your water from affecting your health.

To remove any remaining parasites, cysts, toxic metals, and chloramine in water, what you need to do is purchase and install a home water purification system that employs four distinct filters that together will remove all categories of contaminants from your water. These are a multi media block, a sub micron filter, an ion exchange, and an activated granular carbon filter.

You can purchase a top rated system that features all four of these filters for the modest price of $125. They are simple to install, and will give you years of use. With the choice of the right home water purification system you will never have to be concerned about chloramine in water, or anything else for that matter.

Gordon Hall is fervent about enabling you and everyone to live a healthy lifestyle, and is an ardent reviewer of Water Purification Systems. Visit his website now at : http://www.water-safe-and-pure.com to discover which Water Purification Systems Gordon recommends after far ranging comparisons.

Author: Gordon Hall
more »

-- Tussocks And The Environment

Have you ever heard of Tussocks, Sudds, Floatons or Drifting Islands? For those who aren’t abreast with these things, simply put, they are Drifting masses of mud, peat, and aquatic plants. plant roots and other organic rubble also assists to make these islands. These islands can be a few square feet in size or a several hundred acres in size. These naturally occurring islands can be found everywhere. They are more usually found in lakes and fenland.

Tussocks are made often of cattails, bulrush, sedge and reeds that have extended from the shoreline of a marshland area. Overhanging flora will build up around the shoreline. This could happen as a result of low water levels; water plant tips may try to reach the water, which results in hanging and finally separation. Marine organisms prosper under the drifting mats. Finally, a harsh weather or storms tears off the portion. Then it starts to transmigrate and attaches to another landform. This newly formed tussock then drifts and binds to another landform. The wind helps it to transmigrate, but sometimes the harsh weather totally demolishes it and mix it with the water. Large trees up to 50 feet tall and 8-12 inches in diameter have been seen growing on Tussocks.

Tussocks are a symbolisation of the maturing process of bodies of water. Individuals say that Tussocks are a part of Florida’s shallow lakes. Their number and size was altered by droughts, fire, and floods. More than not floods carry most of the Floating islands. Most Tussocks have been deposited in downstream fenland or upland areas.

Today, water levels are maintained by man made devices such as wires, levees and dams. The man made structures discourage Tussock formation because water levels are ofttimes too high or too low. Most people, these days, don’t cherish the influx of drifting islands. In addition to carrying itself, the islands often act as a mode of transportation for creatures. Many times reptilians and amphibians hitch a ride on a Tussock. I personally don’t think someone would enjoy the arrival of a large deadly alligator beside their home. Drifting islands don’t just carry dangerous creatures; they can also bring helpful plants and herbs your way.

Tussocks are also responsible for another significant problem. Tussocks can block paths to significant

critical

essential] shipping harbour. This can cause many problems for businessman who works near areas of water. Ships can be blocked and damaged by it. Floating islands are also able to stop up the path of an irrigation system. Many governments are blowing millions so that Tussocks don’t get in their way of living a happy life. herbicides have been used in an attempt to control the Tussocks. Costly methods like shredders and flatboat mounted track hoes have been implemented to gain control.

About the Author:

Dave McNabb founded a full service aquatic maintenance company located in Lafayette, California in 1996. Dave started his aquatic career in 1980 with Aquatics Unlimited located in Martinez, California. In 1984 Dave became the very first Aquamog operator and has run the machines for the past 25 years.

Author: Dave McNabb
more »

-- Environmental Engineering Services and Our Nation's Future

Why is there a need for environmental engineering services? A growing awareness exists concerning the effects of environmental destruction to the health of the planet and even humankind's future. This awareness has resulted in the creation of stringent laws and processes dictating the need for environmental due diligence. Experts can help provide environmental due diligence, as well as the required steps to take should environmental pollutants be discovered on a property.

As more and more consumers become aware of the damage done to the environment by industrial and commercial enterprises, the need for immediate action becomes increasingly apparent. In fact, the only way to ensure that environmental damage is halted, and even reversed, is to utilize environmental engineering services. These experts provide not only help with testing, but also the means to eliminate harmful pollutants from land and groundwater, and ease the strain on existing vegetation.

Environmental engineers are experts in determining the effects of possible biological, physical or chemical contaminants to the air you breathe, the water you drink, and the land on which you live. They are well versed in the fields of geology, biology, and chemistry as well as civil, mechanical and agricultural engineering. These experts know the different provisions of environmental law and ensure the tenants of these laws are implemented through environmental due diligence.

It is imperative that owners and CEOs take corporate responsibility toward the community seriously, and insist on careful planning and research. Companies are now beginning to realize that they need to conduct environmental due diligence when planning land development, whether for commercial needs or for residential projects.

As new projects are designed, an environmental site assessment should be performed on each property in question. It is vital that such an assessment be completed prior to any construction. Reliable environmental engineering services can easily provide the necessary information to ensure companies make sound investments, as well as helping to provide better health for those who will be involved in the property once construction is finished. Environmental engineers will also be able to determine the possible positive impact a project will bring to an area, such as clean air and adequate water resources.

How will this prove to be beneficial? As more companies become aware of their responsibility toward the environment, the wanton destruction of natural resources is prevented. With the proper recommendations from reputable environment engineering services, projects will be conceptualized around the preservation of, rather than destruction of, our surroundings. In addition to that, environmental site assessment papers are considered important legal papers that the company can be use as future reference. They

can use their Phase I ESA whether they are applying for a loan, sharing equity or wanting to have partnership.

The welfare of people and the impact of the place they live will be given priority. There will be an added sense of safety and assurance that environmental concerns will not pose any threat to the wellbeing of those in or around the property. But the most important thing of all is that they will gain trust. Trust from the humankind, and trust from mother nature too. And who knows, property owners will be blessed with abundance.

http://AustinEnviroSolutions.com specializes in meeting the needs of commercial real estate professionals and lenders. Our environmental consultants have a thorough understanding of environmental law and required environmental practices, enabling us to provide quick turnaround on Phase I environmental site assessments.

Author: Louise Lohrena

more »

-- Environmental Engineering Services and Our Nation's Future

Why is there a need for environmental engineering services? A growing awareness exists concerning the effects of environmental destruction to the health of the planet and even humankind's future. This awareness has resulted in the creation of stringent laws and processes dictating the need for environmental due diligence. Experts can help provide environmental due diligence, as well as the required steps to take should environmental pollutants be discovered on a property.

As more and more consumers become aware of the damage done to the environment by industrial and commercial enterprises, the need for immediate action becomes increasingly apparent. In fact, the only way to ensure that environmental damage is halted, and even reversed, is to utilize environmental engineering services. These experts provide not only help with testing, but also the means to eliminate harmful pollutants from land and groundwater, and ease the strain on existing vegetation.

Environmental engineers are experts in determining the effects of possible biological, physical or chemical contaminants to the air you breathe, the water you drink, and the land on which you live. They are well versed in the fields of geology, biology, and chemistry as well as civil, mechanical and agricultural engineering. These experts know the different provisions of environmental law and ensure the tenants of these laws are implemented through environmental due diligence.

It is imperative that owners and CEOs take corporate responsibility toward the community seriously, and insist on careful planning and research. Companies are now beginning to realize that they need to conduct environmental due diligence when planning land development, whether for commercial needs or for residential projects.

As new projects are designed, an environmental site assessment should be performed on each property in question. It is vital that such an assessment be completed prior to any construction. Reliable environmental engineering services can easily provide the necessary information to ensure companies make sound investments, as well as helping to provide better health for those who will be involved in the property once construction is finished. Environmental engineers will also be able to determine the possible positive impact a project will bring to an area, such as clean air and adequate water resources.

How will this prove to be beneficial? As more companies become aware of their responsibility toward the environment, the wanton destruction of natural resources is prevented. With the proper recommendations from reputable environment engineering services, projects will be conceptualized around the preservation of, rather than destruction of, our surroundings. In addition to that, environmental site assessment papers are considered important legal papers that the company can be use as future reference. They

can use their Phase I ESA whether they are applying for a loan, sharing equity or wanting to have partnership.

The welfare of people and the impact of the place they live will be given priority. There will be an added sense of safety and assurance that environmental concerns will not pose any threat to the wellbeing of those in or around the property. But the most important thing of all is that they will gain trust. Trust from the humankind, and trust from mother nature too. And who knows, property owners will be blessed with abundance.

http://AustinEnviroSolutions.com specializes in meeting the needs of commercial real estate professionals and lenders. Our environmental consultants have a thorough understanding of environmental law and required environmental practices, enabling us to provide quick turnaround on Phase I environmental site assessments.

Author: Louise Lohrena

more »

-- Benefits of Organic Products

Buying organic products has now spread much further than food alone. Many people prefer to buy organic food because they do not like eating the pesticides and fertilizers that are put on the non-organic produce. Of course, these are put on organic food but there are more restrictions on what can be used and people trust it more.

It is often thought that the food tastes better although other people find that it does not last as long because it does not have so many preservatives added to it. There are now many more organic products available to buy and the growing market at the moment seems to be fabrics. Here are a lot of clothes available to buy, there are many things for children. These appeal to mothers who worry a lot about the fabrics that are touching their babies skin and also about how the cotton has been grown. There are arguments that organic products are better for the environment as well and so people who are concious of these issues and want to help the cause will buy these items. Things such as organic hats are a great gift for other people as well as something that it is really useful to have for yourself. They are getting more readily available too, as well as more high street shops keeping them in stock, there are a lot available to buy on the internet.

Another organic fabric item that you can buy are organic cotton bags these are a great way of buying an organic cotton product without worrying about what it will be like to wear it. There is no reason why it should be hard to wear, but as there is less of a range of clothing then you might find it rather restrictive or that it is not the sort of thing that you would normally consider wearing. These are another good idea for presents as well because it is always useful to have some spare shopping bags, especially f you care about the environment and do not like plastic bags which cannot be reused so often. So consider whether organic cotton is something that you would like to use more of as if you do decide that you would like to, then it is very likely that you will be able to find items in plentiful supply on the internet.

Author: Caitlina Fuller
more »