It seems that the Australian government is in full debate over the Emissions Trading Scheme with widely reported coverage all over the press and media.
Here's one of the many stories published in The Australian, this one titled Clever Tactic, Poor Policy. It explains that there were three manifest messages to come out of a busy day of politicking. First, Rudd is proving a master of climate change politics. Second, the government has discovered a magic accounting trick. Third, the compromise package entrenches the interpretation of the CPRS as brilliant short-term politics and dubious long-term policy.
The Sydney Morning Herald is also focusing on the effect the climate change policy is having on the Australian Opposition. Here is the story titled Turnbull deserves praise for his climate change stand.
It seems it comes down to whether the Liberal Party believes there is a case for global warming or not. Australia has the highest per capita carbon emissions among developed nations, not something to be proud of and while the debate looks as though it is going to continue to rage, that mantle is going to stand for quite some time yet.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Check Your Neighbor's Carbon Footprint at Urban EcoMap
Here's a new device that will allow you to check on the carbon footprint of your neighbor. It's called the Urban EcoMap and it is an online tracking tool that will allow anyone to check the size of anyone else's carbon footprint.
The map tracks the emissions from waste, transportation and energy based on zip code. At the moment it is only operational in San Francisco, but Amsterdam and Seoul will get their carbon footprint maps later this year. Other cities will be sure to follow after that.
The map tracks the emissions from waste, transportation and energy based on zip code. At the moment it is only operational in San Francisco, but Amsterdam and Seoul will get their carbon footprint maps later this year. Other cities will be sure to follow after that.
When you visit the site you are given a lot of figures of how many pounds of carbon emissions are being released based on zip code. You are invited to check out each zip code in the San Francisco. The site is also filled with advice on how to reduce your carbon footprint. It also explains where San Francisco sits in terms of the size of the carbon footprint of the entire city and the goal size that everyone should be striving to meet.
Check out the Urban EcoMap site for a more clear picture of the idea behind making everyone aware of not only their carbon footprint but also that of their neighbor.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
The Size of Concrete's Carbon Footprint
It's interesting when scientists begin picking out random objects and point out the probable size of their carbon footprint on a global scale.
This is what some scientists have done with concrete. A new report has been released that suggests that up to 5 per cent of the world's carbon footprint comes from the concrete industry. That includes the energy use and the carbon dioxide by-product from the production of cement.
There have also been studies that have found that some carbon dioxide is absorbed into concrete, even decades after it has been placed, in the formation of calcite. A new study yet to be released will also suggest that the absorption of CO2 may extend beyond calcite to remove carbon dioxide from the air which actually lowers concrete's overall carbon footprint.
The absorption of CO2 into concrete has been known for years in the formation of calcite (calcium carbonate). But the careful analysis of concrete samples have revealed that other compounds may be forming.
While solving the world's carbon emissions problems is not as simple as paving the entire world in concrete to suck up the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, it is certainly interesting to know that recycling concrete could turn into a net-carbon footprint exercise if done right.
This is what some scientists have done with concrete. A new report has been released that suggests that up to 5 per cent of the world's carbon footprint comes from the concrete industry. That includes the energy use and the carbon dioxide by-product from the production of cement.
There have also been studies that have found that some carbon dioxide is absorbed into concrete, even decades after it has been placed, in the formation of calcite. A new study yet to be released will also suggest that the absorption of CO2 may extend beyond calcite to remove carbon dioxide from the air which actually lowers concrete's overall carbon footprint.
The absorption of CO2 into concrete has been known for years in the formation of calcite (calcium carbonate). But the careful analysis of concrete samples have revealed that other compounds may be forming.
While solving the world's carbon emissions problems is not as simple as paving the entire world in concrete to suck up the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, it is certainly interesting to know that recycling concrete could turn into a net-carbon footprint exercise if done right.
New Carbon Reporting Guide
PricewaterhouseCoopers has launched a best practices guide to help companies report their carbon emissions ahead of the requirements that will come with the government's new Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) legislation.
Next year around 5,000 UK businesses will be required to report their carbon footprint and will enter into an emissions cap-and-trade scheme.
The guide takes companies through a possible scenario with a fake company that explains how the report might be properly compiled. It gives a format that other companies might like to follow as well as an example of a carbon data summary that could be included in an annual report.
Quickly picking up on the carbon reporting practices will help all companies bring forward their emission reduction strategies.
Next year around 5,000 UK businesses will be required to report their carbon footprint and will enter into an emissions cap-and-trade scheme.
The guide takes companies through a possible scenario with a fake company that explains how the report might be properly compiled. It gives a format that other companies might like to follow as well as an example of a carbon data summary that could be included in an annual report.
Quickly picking up on the carbon reporting practices will help all companies bring forward their emission reduction strategies.
Ecobutton Can Lower Your Computer's Carbon Footprint
Here's another device designed to both save money on your energy bill as well as reduce your carbon footprint.
If you're like me you leave you computer powered up when you leave work for the day. I let my work computer go into sleep mode with all of my apps still up and running. The computer will remain fully powered until it eventually goes into sleep mode.
Now there is a new product that can be attached to your computer via a USB cable, called the ecobutton, that you can press when you are not using your computer for any period of time. If you're going to make coffee, are on the phone or heading off for lunch, you can simply press the ecobutton and your computer is immediately switched to energy saving 'ecomode'.
After the computer has been put into 'ecomode' you simply have to press the ecobutton for the computer to be returned to the point where you left off.
As a bonus, each time you send your computer into 'ecomode' the ecobutton software records how much power and money you have saved by using the device. Instantly, you can see just how much your carbon footprint is being reduced.
More devices to help reduce your carbon footprint:
Carbon Hero
Fuel Efficiency Advisor
If you're like me you leave you computer powered up when you leave work for the day. I let my work computer go into sleep mode with all of my apps still up and running. The computer will remain fully powered until it eventually goes into sleep mode.Now there is a new product that can be attached to your computer via a USB cable, called the ecobutton, that you can press when you are not using your computer for any period of time. If you're going to make coffee, are on the phone or heading off for lunch, you can simply press the ecobutton and your computer is immediately switched to energy saving 'ecomode'.
After the computer has been put into 'ecomode' you simply have to press the ecobutton for the computer to be returned to the point where you left off.
As a bonus, each time you send your computer into 'ecomode' the ecobutton software records how much power and money you have saved by using the device. Instantly, you can see just how much your carbon footprint is being reduced.
More devices to help reduce your carbon footprint:
Carbon Hero
Fuel Efficiency Advisor
Monday, May 25, 2009
Fuel Efficiency Adviser To Reduce Your Car's Carbon Footprint
A new device that can easily be installed onto your car's dashboard is available from Fuel Efficiency Centers. Called the Fuel Efficiency Adviser, the device plugs into the OBDII port under the dash and it immediately goes to work analyzing fuel consumption while you drive.
The digital readout can display up to four readings at one time including
This device can help reduce your carbon footprint by helping you diagnose when your car is running inefficiently so you can immediately address them. According to the website you can reduce your fuel consumption by as much as 33% following the information from the Fuel Efficiency Adviser and, consequently, can reduce the excess carbon that would be released by the car.
Fuel Efficiency Centers also advises drivers through its Smart Driving program how following eight simple driving techniques will both save money and reduce their carbon footprint.
1. Accelerate Smoothly
2. Brake Easy
3. Observe Traffic Ahead
4. Coast Whenever You Can
5. Maintain Constant Speed
6. Cruise Control On Flat Surfaces
7. Avoid Idling and Long Lines
8. Control Highway Speeds
The digital readout can display up to four readings at one time including
- Fuel Economy
- Fuel Rate
- Digital Speedometer
Adjustable for tire size or gearing changes - Tachometer (RPM)
- Manifold Pressure
- Battery Voltage
- Coolant Temp.
- Intake Air Temp.
- Engine Load
- Ignition Timing
- Throttle Position
- Open/Closed Loop
This device can help reduce your carbon footprint by helping you diagnose when your car is running inefficiently so you can immediately address them. According to the website you can reduce your fuel consumption by as much as 33% following the information from the Fuel Efficiency Adviser and, consequently, can reduce the excess carbon that would be released by the car.
Fuel Efficiency Centers also advises drivers through its Smart Driving program how following eight simple driving techniques will both save money and reduce their carbon footprint.
1. Accelerate Smoothly
2. Brake Easy
3. Observe Traffic Ahead
4. Coast Whenever You Can
5. Maintain Constant Speed
6. Cruise Control On Flat Surfaces
7. Avoid Idling and Long Lines
8. Control Highway Speeds
Biodegradable Clothes Hanger to Reduce Carbon Footprint
Here's an innovative new product that introduces a great concept for helping to reduce your carbon footprint.
A new biodegradable clothes hanger has been created by Canadian company E-Hanger, made from recycled paper and using ink that is 100% eco-ink vegetable oil in its printed designs. These hangers are being distributed to dry cleaners, retail stores, hotels, and fitness centers completely free of charge. This cost free distribution is made possible due to the advertising dollars that are brought in from companies who market themselves on the hangers.
Such hangers will be able to replace tens of thousands of wire hangers which are dumped into Canadian landfills every year. They also replace plastic hangers which are not completely recyclable.
The replacement hangers will also help to reduce the carbon footprint of dry-cleaners and laundries by eliminating their large contribution of wire hangers to landfills. That carbon footprint reduction will then pass further on to consumers because they will no longer be using non-recyclable clothes hangers.
There's more to be found out about E-Hanger which will hold the dominant distribution rights of its 100% biodegradable clothing hangers. Providing companies with an easy option to be seen to be environmentally friendly is surely a winning strategy in today's green-conscious society and the double carbon footprint reduction will appeal to many.
A new biodegradable clothes hanger has been created by Canadian company E-Hanger, made from recycled paper and using ink that is 100% eco-ink vegetable oil in its printed designs. These hangers are being distributed to dry cleaners, retail stores, hotels, and fitness centers completely free of charge. This cost free distribution is made possible due to the advertising dollars that are brought in from companies who market themselves on the hangers.
Such hangers will be able to replace tens of thousands of wire hangers which are dumped into Canadian landfills every year. They also replace plastic hangers which are not completely recyclable.
The replacement hangers will also help to reduce the carbon footprint of dry-cleaners and laundries by eliminating their large contribution of wire hangers to landfills. That carbon footprint reduction will then pass further on to consumers because they will no longer be using non-recyclable clothes hangers.
There's more to be found out about E-Hanger which will hold the dominant distribution rights of its 100% biodegradable clothing hangers. Providing companies with an easy option to be seen to be environmentally friendly is surely a winning strategy in today's green-conscious society and the double carbon footprint reduction will appeal to many.
Boeing Working To Reduce Carbon Footprint In the Aviation Industry
Boeing has announced a 3 prong plan for attacking the size of the carbon footprint of commercial planes. The three areas in which work is being done to reduce the carbon footprint is in the weight of the airplanes and their fuel efficiency, improvements in air-traffic management and testing sustainable biofuels with the goal of finding renewable fuels for aviation that don’t compete with crops for food.
Together, all of these initiatives represent the way forward for the aviation industry and it is believed that putting these improvements in place won’t increase costs noticeably.
Those within the industry have said that each of the carbon footprint reduction plan points are achievable within the industry but it would need government support to make it happen.
Airlines have demanded increased efficiency from airplane and engine manufacturers and manufacturers have responded. Over the past 50 years of flying the carbon emissions per mile flown have dropped by 70%. With further technological work, that figure can continue to rise.
Precision information, commonly shared, safely enables such fuel-saving and emissions-reducing operational changes as continuous, low-power descents, more direct routing, closer spacing, and curved approaches to landing.
As for the biofuels trialed, test flights have been conducted using mixtures of standard jet fuel and several different sustainable biofuels, among them fuels made from algae and camelina. One of the features that have been demonstrated with these fuels is that they have a lower freezing point than petroleum and that they can also have a higher energy content per gallon.
Together, all of these initiatives represent the way forward for the aviation industry and it is believed that putting these improvements in place won’t increase costs noticeably.
Those within the industry have said that each of the carbon footprint reduction plan points are achievable within the industry but it would need government support to make it happen.
Airlines have demanded increased efficiency from airplane and engine manufacturers and manufacturers have responded. Over the past 50 years of flying the carbon emissions per mile flown have dropped by 70%. With further technological work, that figure can continue to rise.
Precision information, commonly shared, safely enables such fuel-saving and emissions-reducing operational changes as continuous, low-power descents, more direct routing, closer spacing, and curved approaches to landing.
As for the biofuels trialed, test flights have been conducted using mixtures of standard jet fuel and several different sustainable biofuels, among them fuels made from algae and camelina. One of the features that have been demonstrated with these fuels is that they have a lower freezing point than petroleum and that they can also have a higher energy content per gallon.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Government Carbon Footprint Blueprint in Sheffield
We’ve seen quite a few local government carbon footprint initiatives over the past few years, it makes good sense politically to announce some sort of proactive plan of action. To that end, a blueprint has been announced in Sheffield that outlines how the city can reduce its carbon footprint by up to 30%.
The report has been constructed to focus on housing, business and transport and advises residents how they can contribute. One of those initiatives is for the home owner to be able to hire a smart meter to check energy use. The thinking being that if you are aware of the level of energy you have used you will be in a position to take steps to cut back.
Also contained within the guide is the suggestion to generate more of the city’s electricity locally and to provide a new public transport infrastructure.
The council has already invested in a project where council services and staff are using electric and gas powered vehicles.
Councillor Shaffaq Mohammed, cabinet member for climate change and local environment, said: "We recognise that we cannot reduce the amount of carbon used in the city overnight, but by working together with residents and businesses we can make a big difference."
The report has been constructed to focus on housing, business and transport and advises residents how they can contribute. One of those initiatives is for the home owner to be able to hire a smart meter to check energy use. The thinking being that if you are aware of the level of energy you have used you will be in a position to take steps to cut back.
Also contained within the guide is the suggestion to generate more of the city’s electricity locally and to provide a new public transport infrastructure.
The council has already invested in a project where council services and staff are using electric and gas powered vehicles.
Councillor Shaffaq Mohammed, cabinet member for climate change and local environment, said: "We recognise that we cannot reduce the amount of carbon used in the city overnight, but by working together with residents and businesses we can make a big difference."
United Airlines Provides Carbon Offset Programme
We know that the carbon footprint of airlines is a big one, and that their carbon footprint is also passed on to the calculation of the carbon footprint of each of its passengers. United Airlines has launched a carbon offset programme designed to give customers the opportunity to support renewable energy and reforestation projects.
The airline developed a carbon calculator with Conservation International and Sustainable Travel International (STI) that determines a customer's carbon footprint for air travel based on routes, aircraft utilised, load factors and fuel usage.
Customers are able to participate in the scheme by visiting the United website where they will be able to make a donation that will support one of four offset portfolios.
The airline developed a carbon calculator with Conservation International and Sustainable Travel International (STI) that determines a customer's carbon footprint for air travel based on routes, aircraft utilised, load factors and fuel usage.
Customers are able to participate in the scheme by visiting the United website where they will be able to make a donation that will support one of four offset portfolios.
Devon County Has Reduced Its Carbon Footprint
The Devon County Council has reported that it has managed to significantly reduce its carbon footprint, exceeding its green performance targets. It has estimated that 422 tonnes of carbon have been saved through various measures. These include the installation of a voltage optimiser at County Hall and upgraded street lighting in parts of Devon.
An estimated 700 tonnes of CO2 is expected to be saved by making use of a new biomass boiler at County Hall in Exeter as well as voltage optimisers in other buildings.
Devon has also been supporting a program that encourages volunteer staff to encourage colleagues to get involved to reduce waste and take part in recycling programs, improve energy efficiency and to use sustainable transport.
There is a reported increase in the overall recycling level and the carbon footprint is being reduced accordingly.
An estimated 700 tonnes of CO2 is expected to be saved by making use of a new biomass boiler at County Hall in Exeter as well as voltage optimisers in other buildings.
Devon has also been supporting a program that encourages volunteer staff to encourage colleagues to get involved to reduce waste and take part in recycling programs, improve energy efficiency and to use sustainable transport.
There is a reported increase in the overall recycling level and the carbon footprint is being reduced accordingly.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Tips On Saving Cash And Reducing Your Carbon Footprint
Everyone is keen to tell us how we might be able to reduce our carbon footprint with the promise that doing so will also save us money. A double-glazing firm in the UK, Safestyle UK has given its five top tips on how we might achieve a smaller carbon footprint. Some of these may seem ridiculously straightforward, but then again, it’s the little things that count and add up to major savings.
The first suggestion is to keep taking regular meter readings to keep track of your energy use during the month allowing you to cut back if you think it’s too high. The argument is that not doing so will let you remain on the high usage and result in paying too much each month.
Take the time to compare energy suppliers. You may be paying more than you might otherwise be if you simply switched.
Take advantage of the discounts given to people who pay their bills via direct debit or paperless accounts. Many energy providers offer these discounts as a matter of course.
The 4th piece of advice is really a slam dunk and rather vague, simply stating to use energy more efficiently. We all know that, many people are having trouble doing it though. At least the company gives the example of switching off appliances that are constantly on standby can save up to £37 per year alone.
The last piece of advice is no surprise seeing as how it comes from a double-glazing firm. That’s right, the last piece of advice on how you might both reduce your carbon footprint and save money is to install double glazing which can help reduce the heating bills of the home and also the CO2 emissions.
So, okay, this is pretty much a rehash of many of the tips that we have been trying to follow for the last few years anyway. But sometimes it’s good to re-emphasize some of the steps necessary to shrink the carbon footprint.
The first suggestion is to keep taking regular meter readings to keep track of your energy use during the month allowing you to cut back if you think it’s too high. The argument is that not doing so will let you remain on the high usage and result in paying too much each month.
Take the time to compare energy suppliers. You may be paying more than you might otherwise be if you simply switched.
Take advantage of the discounts given to people who pay their bills via direct debit or paperless accounts. Many energy providers offer these discounts as a matter of course.
The 4th piece of advice is really a slam dunk and rather vague, simply stating to use energy more efficiently. We all know that, many people are having trouble doing it though. At least the company gives the example of switching off appliances that are constantly on standby can save up to £37 per year alone.
The last piece of advice is no surprise seeing as how it comes from a double-glazing firm. That’s right, the last piece of advice on how you might both reduce your carbon footprint and save money is to install double glazing which can help reduce the heating bills of the home and also the CO2 emissions.
So, okay, this is pretty much a rehash of many of the tips that we have been trying to follow for the last few years anyway. But sometimes it’s good to re-emphasize some of the steps necessary to shrink the carbon footprint.
Recommitment To Lower Carbon Footprint Through Biofuel
The federal government mandate to produce 36 billion gallons annually by 2022 has prompted a recommitment to biofuel production.
There has been a cap on ethanol made from corn which is set at 15 billion gallons, the rest must come from other sources such as plant waste or dedicated biofuel crops that grow on marginal land. The new fuel must also reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions, when compared with petroleum, by at least 50 percent.
The problem with corn ethanol is that it doesn't reduce greenhouse gas emissions by very much at all.
The holy grail of new biofuels research is finding ways, on a massive and sustained scale, to extract sugar locked away in huge piles of plant material now considered waste, such as corn husks, straw and wood chips.
A very promising source of potential biofuel is algae because it produces more energy than other biofuels. The speed with which algae reproduces makes its use even more attractive.
As a means of reducing the carbon footprint of the petroleum industry, biofuel has still got a great deal of distance still to travel. Finding a viable source for the creation of ethanol will be a challenge in itself.
There has been a cap on ethanol made from corn which is set at 15 billion gallons, the rest must come from other sources such as plant waste or dedicated biofuel crops that grow on marginal land. The new fuel must also reduce overall greenhouse gas emissions, when compared with petroleum, by at least 50 percent.
The problem with corn ethanol is that it doesn't reduce greenhouse gas emissions by very much at all.
The holy grail of new biofuels research is finding ways, on a massive and sustained scale, to extract sugar locked away in huge piles of plant material now considered waste, such as corn husks, straw and wood chips.
A very promising source of potential biofuel is algae because it produces more energy than other biofuels. The speed with which algae reproduces makes its use even more attractive.
As a means of reducing the carbon footprint of the petroleum industry, biofuel has still got a great deal of distance still to travel. Finding a viable source for the creation of ethanol will be a challenge in itself.
Eco Hatchery Is Offering An Online Carbon Calculator
Eco Hatchery recently announced an online carbon calculator that you can add to your web site either in a free or fully embedded format.
"The Carbon Calculator is a valuable tool for tracking aggregate energy and CO2 savings in your community, boosting site traffic, and supporting complementary sustainability programs," said Eco Hatchery president Adam Borut.
The Carbon Calculator gives you the opportunity to save your carbon footprint and to test various scenarios so you can see how changes in your lifestyle will affect the outcome.
The key features of the Carbon Calculator are :
"The Carbon Calculator is a valuable tool for tracking aggregate energy and CO2 savings in your community, boosting site traffic, and supporting complementary sustainability programs," said Eco Hatchery president Adam Borut.
The Carbon Calculator gives you the opportunity to save your carbon footprint and to test various scenarios so you can see how changes in your lifestyle will affect the outcome.
The key features of the Carbon Calculator are :
Individual & Household Carbon Footprint Calculation: The online calculator is easy to use and educational. Users measure their carbon footprint resulting from daily activities such as household energy use, commuting, travel, recycling, and diet.
Aggregate Community Footprint: Users can work with others toward a shared environmental goal by joining your organization's online community and seeing how their individual actions impact the group result. Communities may be any size, for example: a neighborhood, employee or customer base, congregation, school, department, or county.
Friday, May 22, 2009
A List of Top 10 Green Myths
A recent press release by Climate Culture listed a top 10 list to highlight some of the common misconceptions when it comes to people trying to be green.
Recycled paper
Recycled paper can sometimes be more carbon intensive than virgin paper. Virgin paper production facilities tend to be clustered in the Pacific Northwest or Maine, where a large portion of electricity comes from hydropower, while paper recycling facilities tend to be near large urban areas where the generation mix is often dirtier. This difference in emissions from electricity use in paper production can be larger than the emissions associated with cutting down the tree to produce paper in the first place. Let us know where you live and we'll help you determine whether you should be buying recycled or virgin paper.
Is local food always greener?
Local food doesn't necessarily result in much less carbon than non-local food. The method of production and type of food is far more important than the distance traveled in determining life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions. For example, chicken from the supermarket is likely greener than local beef from the farmer's market. That said, there are plenty of non-carbon benefits of buying local that make it more than worthwhile.
Dishwashers are green? Huh?!
If you use hot water to wash dishes by hand, stop! Dishwashers can use less hot water than washing your dishes by hand. People often underestimate just how much hot water they use when washing their dishes by hand, especially when they just leave the water running rather than plugging up the sink. In many cases, depending on where you live, you would be better off using the dishwasher. That said, you would be best off just washing your dishes with cold water whenever possible.
Ditch that road trip? Just carpool!
Driving can actually be worse than flying if you are driving the same distance alone in a large vehicle like a station wagon, minivan, truck, or SUV. That said, the planet is virtually always better off if you have two or more passengers or a reasonably efficient car.
Mercury and CFLs - don't believe everything you read!
CFLs generally result in less mercury emissions than conventional incandescents, since coal-based electricity generation is the single largest source of anthropogenic mercury emissions and CFLs save a considerable amount of electricity. Broken CFLs do not pose much of a health risk, as the vast majority of the mercury contained in the bulb remains bound to the glass.
Don't let Whole Foods fool you!
Paper bags are just as bad as plastic bags from a carbon perspective. They also tend to generate more solid waste. If you really want to help the climate, just bring a reusable bag.
Buy an electric car? Hold that thought.
Electric cars can emit more carbon than high-efficient hybrids in states where the vast majority of electricity comes from coal. In general, they are still far from zero emissions unless powered solely through renewable energy.
Plant a tree to save the planet?
Planting trees in colder parts of the country does little to reduce warming. The additional sunlight absorbed by the dark-colored trees just about offsets any cooling from carbon reduced. Planting trees in high-latitude areas can actually heat up the earth. However, planting trees in the tropics is unambiguously good. Urban treeplanting is also generally good because urban surfaces tend to absorb a lot of light, which means the tree won't warm the area. Tree planting can also provide important ecosystem benefits independent of climate effects.
No plastic jugs? Think again.
Plastic half-gallon milk jugs have lower lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions than glass or paper containers, due to the fact that they use much less material to do the same job.
Show your garbage disposal some love.
Disposing of your food in your sink's garbage disposal may be preferable to throwing it in the trash, though the actual effects depend largely on whether your local wastewater treatment plant and landfill capture their methane emissions. Best of all is just to compost it yourself.
Recycled paper
Recycled paper can sometimes be more carbon intensive than virgin paper. Virgin paper production facilities tend to be clustered in the Pacific Northwest or Maine, where a large portion of electricity comes from hydropower, while paper recycling facilities tend to be near large urban areas where the generation mix is often dirtier. This difference in emissions from electricity use in paper production can be larger than the emissions associated with cutting down the tree to produce paper in the first place. Let us know where you live and we'll help you determine whether you should be buying recycled or virgin paper.
Is local food always greener?
Local food doesn't necessarily result in much less carbon than non-local food. The method of production and type of food is far more important than the distance traveled in determining life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions. For example, chicken from the supermarket is likely greener than local beef from the farmer's market. That said, there are plenty of non-carbon benefits of buying local that make it more than worthwhile.
Dishwashers are green? Huh?!
If you use hot water to wash dishes by hand, stop! Dishwashers can use less hot water than washing your dishes by hand. People often underestimate just how much hot water they use when washing their dishes by hand, especially when they just leave the water running rather than plugging up the sink. In many cases, depending on where you live, you would be better off using the dishwasher. That said, you would be best off just washing your dishes with cold water whenever possible.
Ditch that road trip? Just carpool!
Driving can actually be worse than flying if you are driving the same distance alone in a large vehicle like a station wagon, minivan, truck, or SUV. That said, the planet is virtually always better off if you have two or more passengers or a reasonably efficient car.
Mercury and CFLs - don't believe everything you read!
CFLs generally result in less mercury emissions than conventional incandescents, since coal-based electricity generation is the single largest source of anthropogenic mercury emissions and CFLs save a considerable amount of electricity. Broken CFLs do not pose much of a health risk, as the vast majority of the mercury contained in the bulb remains bound to the glass.
Don't let Whole Foods fool you!
Paper bags are just as bad as plastic bags from a carbon perspective. They also tend to generate more solid waste. If you really want to help the climate, just bring a reusable bag.
Buy an electric car? Hold that thought.
Electric cars can emit more carbon than high-efficient hybrids in states where the vast majority of electricity comes from coal. In general, they are still far from zero emissions unless powered solely through renewable energy.
Plant a tree to save the planet?
Planting trees in colder parts of the country does little to reduce warming. The additional sunlight absorbed by the dark-colored trees just about offsets any cooling from carbon reduced. Planting trees in high-latitude areas can actually heat up the earth. However, planting trees in the tropics is unambiguously good. Urban treeplanting is also generally good because urban surfaces tend to absorb a lot of light, which means the tree won't warm the area. Tree planting can also provide important ecosystem benefits independent of climate effects.
No plastic jugs? Think again.
Plastic half-gallon milk jugs have lower lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions than glass or paper containers, due to the fact that they use much less material to do the same job.
Show your garbage disposal some love.
Disposing of your food in your sink's garbage disposal may be preferable to throwing it in the trash, though the actual effects depend largely on whether your local wastewater treatment plant and landfill capture their methane emissions. Best of all is just to compost it yourself.
Low Carbon Footprint Sewage System
In the UK there has been the opening of a new odor-free sewage plant at Sutton St. James in Lincolnshire. The £4 million sewage scheme is powered by Aero-Fac which is a wind powered technology to minimize costs.
John Forkin, Anglian Water Contracts Manager, said: "We are committed to providing environmentally friendly and cost efficient solutions. The Aero-Fac system offers a low carbon footprint solution both for construction and the long term operational costs. The system has no odor during normal operation and the earth banks around the cells give a visual aspect which is in keeping with the rural environment."
John Gillett, Managing Director of Gurney Environmental Ltd., explains the Aero-Fac system incorporates a number of unique features.
"Not the least of which is a self-digesting sludge process that requires no pre-screening, sedimentation tanks or clarifiers, no sludge removal, dewatering or conditioning, and best of all, no routine sludge disposal and the associated lorry traffic in and out of the works. All sludge is continuously self digested within the initial treatment stage."
With a commitment to lowering its carbon footprint, Anglian Water has another three Aero-Fac and Accel-o-Fac plants due for completion later in 2009.
John Forkin, Anglian Water Contracts Manager, said: "We are committed to providing environmentally friendly and cost efficient solutions. The Aero-Fac system offers a low carbon footprint solution both for construction and the long term operational costs. The system has no odor during normal operation and the earth banks around the cells give a visual aspect which is in keeping with the rural environment."
John Gillett, Managing Director of Gurney Environmental Ltd., explains the Aero-Fac system incorporates a number of unique features.
"Not the least of which is a self-digesting sludge process that requires no pre-screening, sedimentation tanks or clarifiers, no sludge removal, dewatering or conditioning, and best of all, no routine sludge disposal and the associated lorry traffic in and out of the works. All sludge is continuously self digested within the initial treatment stage."
With a commitment to lowering its carbon footprint, Anglian Water has another three Aero-Fac and Accel-o-Fac plants due for completion later in 2009.
Does Charcoal Have A Bigger Carbon Footprint Than Propane?
Barbecuers out there, are you ready for this? Which is responsible for a smaller carbon footprint – charcoal or propane gas?
Many have argued that using charcoal on the barbecue is better for the environment than gas. A researcher from England, however, has come to the conclusion that the carbon footprint of charcoal is around three times as big as that which comes from burning propane.
The study takes us to the biggest day of backyard grilling of the year, Independence Day, and ran a few numbers for us. On that day it is estimated that enough barbecues would be fired up to emit around 225,000 tons of carbon dioxide.
The argument of the study is that if all of the barbecues used were fired using charcoal an extra 89,000 tons of carbon dioxide would be emitted. If those same barbecues switched to propane gas the carbon dioxide emissions would be reduced by around 26 percent.
From here it gets a little more complicated because the carbon footprint of a good or service isn’t only measured by its actual use. Carbon footprint measurement also includes all phases of the manufacture, the transportation from its origin to the final destination as well as the actual consumption.
There is also an essential difference between charcoal and propane. The carbon in charcoal was already out in the environment before it was used, while the carbon in propane was locked away deep underground before it was brought out and released into the atmosphere.
The study assumed that the charcoal was produced in developing African countries which greatly increases the transportation aspect of the carbon footprint. This is true of English charcoal. However, US charcoal is produced locally, so the carbon footprint is much smaller.
The final verdict? It’s not quite as clear cut as first thought. In fact, when push comes to shove the debate is still undecided. Perhaps it will simply come down to taste. If you like that woody flavor to your barbecued meat, then you’re going to go for the charcoal grill.
Many have argued that using charcoal on the barbecue is better for the environment than gas. A researcher from England, however, has come to the conclusion that the carbon footprint of charcoal is around three times as big as that which comes from burning propane.
The study takes us to the biggest day of backyard grilling of the year, Independence Day, and ran a few numbers for us. On that day it is estimated that enough barbecues would be fired up to emit around 225,000 tons of carbon dioxide.
The argument of the study is that if all of the barbecues used were fired using charcoal an extra 89,000 tons of carbon dioxide would be emitted. If those same barbecues switched to propane gas the carbon dioxide emissions would be reduced by around 26 percent.
From here it gets a little more complicated because the carbon footprint of a good or service isn’t only measured by its actual use. Carbon footprint measurement also includes all phases of the manufacture, the transportation from its origin to the final destination as well as the actual consumption.
There is also an essential difference between charcoal and propane. The carbon in charcoal was already out in the environment before it was used, while the carbon in propane was locked away deep underground before it was brought out and released into the atmosphere.
The study assumed that the charcoal was produced in developing African countries which greatly increases the transportation aspect of the carbon footprint. This is true of English charcoal. However, US charcoal is produced locally, so the carbon footprint is much smaller.
The final verdict? It’s not quite as clear cut as first thought. In fact, when push comes to shove the debate is still undecided. Perhaps it will simply come down to taste. If you like that woody flavor to your barbecued meat, then you’re going to go for the charcoal grill.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Living Off The Grid
One of the surest ways you can go about reducing your carbon footprint is to aim to live off the grid. What this actually means is to live without the reliance on public utilities such as electricity and water.
One might wonder, then how to live off grid and the first step may well be to start producing your own electricity. Two simple domestic options are available to you. The first is solar panels installed on the roof of your house or other structure that enjoys full sun for a majority of the day. The second might be a wind turbine. Essentially you must generate more electricity than you use.
However you go about living off the grid, your energy consumption is going to have to be tightly managed and the electrical gadgets you use will be cut to a minimum. Unless you're already used to living a frugal lifestyle there are going to have to be some major lifestyle changes made.
One thing is for certain, if you make the choice to live off-grid you will soon develop a special affinity to the environment, perhaps appreciating the taste of organically grown vegetables on your own property. Living off-grid is one of the steps towards self-sufficiency and could be the source of major carbon footprint reductions for you and your family.
One might wonder, then how to live off grid and the first step may well be to start producing your own electricity. Two simple domestic options are available to you. The first is solar panels installed on the roof of your house or other structure that enjoys full sun for a majority of the day. The second might be a wind turbine. Essentially you must generate more electricity than you use.
However you go about living off the grid, your energy consumption is going to have to be tightly managed and the electrical gadgets you use will be cut to a minimum. Unless you're already used to living a frugal lifestyle there are going to have to be some major lifestyle changes made.
One thing is for certain, if you make the choice to live off-grid you will soon develop a special affinity to the environment, perhaps appreciating the taste of organically grown vegetables on your own property. Living off-grid is one of the steps towards self-sufficiency and could be the source of major carbon footprint reductions for you and your family.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Global Credit Crisis Reduces Carbon Footprint
An unexpected offshoot benefit stemming from the global credit crisis has been an almost forced reduction in the carbon footprint of individuals. Cost cutting measures undertaken by homeowners has had the effect of reducing energy usage, product consumption and generally, a search for ways to reduce expenses.
A survey by one British banking corporation has revealed that 72% of respondents have said they are trying to reduce their energy bills by turning off electrical items. Energy efficient light bulbs have been used by an increasing number of people and warmer clothes are being warm instead of turning up the heating.
Money saving is at the forefront of many people's mind and cutting the energy bill turns out to be one of the more immediately and, consequently most gratifying, methods of saving money. The Carbon footprint is shrinking and although it is not primarily due to an overt desire to save the planet, it is still of benefit just the same.
A survey by one British banking corporation has revealed that 72% of respondents have said they are trying to reduce their energy bills by turning off electrical items. Energy efficient light bulbs have been used by an increasing number of people and warmer clothes are being warm instead of turning up the heating.
Money saving is at the forefront of many people's mind and cutting the energy bill turns out to be one of the more immediately and, consequently most gratifying, methods of saving money. The Carbon footprint is shrinking and although it is not primarily due to an overt desire to save the planet, it is still of benefit just the same.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Carbon Offset Network Has Been Launched
The Carbon Advice Group launches the world's first multi-level affiliate carbon offset network today at CarbonAdviceGroup.com. London-based Carbon Advice group PLC has created a unique web-based service that enables individuals and businesses to take an active role in combating climate change. The site enables users to directly calculate their carbon footprint and immediately purchase offsets.
The Carbon Advice Group allows anyone to get involved and take an active role in the emerging green economy. The site also offers motivated social entrepreneurs a short process to set up their own micro-site to promote and sell carbon offsets as part of the Carbon Advice Group's network.
"We want to motivate the average person in the street to get online, build their own site and get the message across to everyone they know," says serial Social Entrepreneur and Carbon Advice Group founder Matthew Sullivan.
The Carbon Advice Group's mission is to create a worldwide network of social entrepreneurs by giving them the necessary tools, understanding and motivation for them to bring carbon emission reduction and offsetting into the mainstream and make it a vital part of everyday life. Allowing individuals to promote, purchase or provide carbon offsets, the group offers a compelling answer to the "What can I do?" response to global climate change issues.
Carbon offsetting enables individuals and businesses to compensate for unavoidable emissions by purchasing equivalent greenhouse gas savings. With the Carbon Advice Group, these savings can come from wind power, biomass power, or a renewable energy charitable contribution.
Available carbon credits meet international standards and goals outlined in the Kyoto Agreement. Users who purchase carbon offsets will receive certificates and luggage tags to display in vehicles, businesses or on vacation.
"Everyday we see, hear and read about the catastrophic effects of global climate change. We all know we need to do something, and we need to do it now. We believe we have solved the "What's in it for me" problem," says Sullivan.
Find out more at Carbon Advice Group
The Carbon Advice Group allows anyone to get involved and take an active role in the emerging green economy. The site also offers motivated social entrepreneurs a short process to set up their own micro-site to promote and sell carbon offsets as part of the Carbon Advice Group's network.
"We want to motivate the average person in the street to get online, build their own site and get the message across to everyone they know," says serial Social Entrepreneur and Carbon Advice Group founder Matthew Sullivan.
The Carbon Advice Group's mission is to create a worldwide network of social entrepreneurs by giving them the necessary tools, understanding and motivation for them to bring carbon emission reduction and offsetting into the mainstream and make it a vital part of everyday life. Allowing individuals to promote, purchase or provide carbon offsets, the group offers a compelling answer to the "What can I do?" response to global climate change issues.
Carbon offsetting enables individuals and businesses to compensate for unavoidable emissions by purchasing equivalent greenhouse gas savings. With the Carbon Advice Group, these savings can come from wind power, biomass power, or a renewable energy charitable contribution.
Available carbon credits meet international standards and goals outlined in the Kyoto Agreement. Users who purchase carbon offsets will receive certificates and luggage tags to display in vehicles, businesses or on vacation.
"Everyday we see, hear and read about the catastrophic effects of global climate change. We all know we need to do something, and we need to do it now. We believe we have solved the "What's in it for me" problem," says Sullivan.
Find out more at Carbon Advice Group
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Mobile Phone Footprint to be Reduced by Release of 'GreenPhone'
MobiMonster2.0, a company based in New Delhi, has developed a Mobile phone application that can reduce a mobile phone’s global carbon footprint.
A Mobile software by MobiMonster that can reduce the carbon footprint of your Mobile Device.
The application called, GreenPhone can monitor several power hungry features in the phone and can inform the user when these resources are consuming battery but are not required to be switched on.
GreenPhone has also been recognized by Nokia, and has been awarded as the most innovative application in its Eco-Friendly category and has been selected from Asia Pacific as a finalist for the GSM World Congress to be held in February, 2009.
GreenPhone is a first of it’s kind application for Series 60 devices, infact no other Eco-Friendly application exists for Mobile Devices which monitors power and resources on the phone. The application has a basic version available for sale, but is currently being re-vamped for a worldwide presentation. GreenPhone can switch off the backlight of the phone when it is not required, notify the user when the Bluetooth and WLAN is switch on but not being used and also notify the user when the charger is not required to be connected on the phone. All these features can significantly reduce the power consumption of your phone, thus reducing the time you need to charge the phone, which results in significant saving of electricity inturn reducing the carbon foot print of a mobile device.
This innovation is a purely indigenous effort by MobiMonster, which marks a striking change in the strategy of Indian Software companies that are now shifting focus from services to becoming a product companies.
MobiMonster has a range of other products for Mobile Devices which they are pushing in partnership with Nokia, British Telecom (INMO) and network operators such Vodafone (UK), T-Mobile (Germany), O2 and several other players. MobiMonster is also working with Nokia for SMSTimer product which is included in several Nokia phones and is working to provide a range of next generation applications on Nokia India handsets.
A Mobile software by MobiMonster that can reduce the carbon footprint of your Mobile Device.
The application called, GreenPhone can monitor several power hungry features in the phone and can inform the user when these resources are consuming battery but are not required to be switched on.
GreenPhone has also been recognized by Nokia, and has been awarded as the most innovative application in its Eco-Friendly category and has been selected from Asia Pacific as a finalist for the GSM World Congress to be held in February, 2009.
GreenPhone is a first of it’s kind application for Series 60 devices, infact no other Eco-Friendly application exists for Mobile Devices which monitors power and resources on the phone. The application has a basic version available for sale, but is currently being re-vamped for a worldwide presentation. GreenPhone can switch off the backlight of the phone when it is not required, notify the user when the Bluetooth and WLAN is switch on but not being used and also notify the user when the charger is not required to be connected on the phone. All these features can significantly reduce the power consumption of your phone, thus reducing the time you need to charge the phone, which results in significant saving of electricity inturn reducing the carbon foot print of a mobile device.
This innovation is a purely indigenous effort by MobiMonster, which marks a striking change in the strategy of Indian Software companies that are now shifting focus from services to becoming a product companies.
MobiMonster has a range of other products for Mobile Devices which they are pushing in partnership with Nokia, British Telecom (INMO) and network operators such Vodafone (UK), T-Mobile (Germany), O2 and several other players. MobiMonster is also working with Nokia for SMSTimer product which is included in several Nokia phones and is working to provide a range of next generation applications on Nokia India handsets.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Compact Fluorescents - Yet To Make A Difference
One of the most important energy saving innovations of recent times has been compact fluorescents. They have tremendous scope for reducing electricity consumption and there is an increasing number of houses that have at least one compact fluorescent light bulb in their house. Unfortunately, it seems that any reduction in energy use from compact fluorescent light bulbs is being outweighed by an increase in the number of other light bulbs in the house as well as the wattage of the bulbs.
Energy-efficient light bulbs are gaining market share around the world, but if you take the UK market as an example, around 9 million compact fluorescents are sold each year compared to around 180 million ordinary incandescent bulbs. The good news is that compact fluorescent light bulbs last 10 times longer and so, as they are being fitted into bulb sockets, the demand to replace them will take 10 times as long to arise. The creep to CFLs over ordinary bulbs is crawling.
To put things into a little bit of perspective, a typical incandescent light bulb lasts for around 1000 hours which roughly equates to 3 years of use if used for 1 hour every day. No evidence has been found that when an incandescent bulb burns out it is being replaced by a compact fluorescent.
And it’s this point where the public needs to be reminded about the importance of using the compact fluorescents over the traditional incandescent.
It is estimated that only 20 per cent of the light in UK homes comes from compact fluorescents which is pretty low considering they have been promoted for almost 10 years.
If electricity use for lighting is going to drop, and it is yet to show signs of falling as yet, there has to be a greater take up rate of compact fluorescents.
Energy-efficient light bulbs are gaining market share around the world, but if you take the UK market as an example, around 9 million compact fluorescents are sold each year compared to around 180 million ordinary incandescent bulbs. The good news is that compact fluorescent light bulbs last 10 times longer and so, as they are being fitted into bulb sockets, the demand to replace them will take 10 times as long to arise. The creep to CFLs over ordinary bulbs is crawling.
To put things into a little bit of perspective, a typical incandescent light bulb lasts for around 1000 hours which roughly equates to 3 years of use if used for 1 hour every day. No evidence has been found that when an incandescent bulb burns out it is being replaced by a compact fluorescent.
And it’s this point where the public needs to be reminded about the importance of using the compact fluorescents over the traditional incandescent.
It is estimated that only 20 per cent of the light in UK homes comes from compact fluorescents which is pretty low considering they have been promoted for almost 10 years.
If electricity use for lighting is going to drop, and it is yet to show signs of falling as yet, there has to be a greater take up rate of compact fluorescents.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)