Author Archives: Salman Zafar

About Salman Zafar

Salman Zafar is the CEO of BioEnergy Consult, and an international consultant, advisor and trainer with expertise in waste management, biomass energy, waste-to-energy, environment protection and resource conservation. His geographical areas of focus include Asia, Africa and the Middle East. Salman has successfully accomplished a wide range of projects in the areas of biogas technology, biomass energy, waste-to-energy, recycling and waste management. Salman has participated in numerous national and international conferences all over the world. He is a prolific environmental journalist, and has authored more than 300 articles in reputed journals, magazines and websites. In addition, he is proactively engaged in creating mass awareness on renewable energy, waste management and environmental sustainability through his blogs and portals. Salman can be reached at salman@bioenergyconsult.com or salman@cleantechloops.com.

Best MBA Programs for Renewable Energy

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For those considering a future in the energy sector along with an MBA degree, determining which schools boast superior programs for energy management careers might be interesting. As our planet increasingly prioritizes sustainable practices, there is an ever-greater call for adept professionals.

The best MBA admissions consultants can help you pursue top programs for renewable energy. These programs can give you both general business expertise and particular managerial abilities critical for prospering amid these ongoing shifts.

beginners guide to renewable energy

Selecting an MBA school for renewable energy management career involves multiple considerations. Apart from finding a program with courses related to energy policy, economics, and technology, it is crucial to opt for one that emphasizes sustainable development, renewable resources, and environmental management, such as one of the reputable online environmental science degree programs.

Exploring programs featuring tracks or specializations in energy management can also provide focused training on the subject matter. Furthermore, seeking internship opportunities or connecting with industry professionals can help gain practical experience.

Why Choose an MBA in Renewable Energy?

This course is an option for anybody who wishes to work in the renewable energy or power industries. To succeed as a future leader, a student requires extensive knowledge, strategic thinking, sound judgment, a global perspective, adaptability, and truthfulness. This management course may advance a student’s career and aid in developing these abilities.

Career Options for Those with an MBA in Renewable Energy

Let’s take a deeper look at a few of the most prominent management careers available to those with a green MBA.

1. Marketing and Management

Whether it’s the newest smartphone or renewable energy, individuals need to successfully market these ideas and goods to others. If you want a company to spend millions on solar PV panels or other sustainable energy sources, what arguments would you use?

Unfortunately, not everyone is aware of sustainable methods. Using your master’s degree in sustainability to promote environmental sustainability is a terrific way to put your marketing and advertising skills to work.

As per PayScale, the average compensation for a person with an MBA is $101,019.

2. Fossil Fuel Business

Fossil fuel businesses may not be considered a viable option by the general public. Yet contrary to popular belief, these businesses are keen to implement environmentally friendly policies. Oil giants like BP, ExxonMobil, and Shell have pooled their resources to support environmentally friendly initiatives.

List of the Best MBA Schools for Energy Management

Embarking on a career path centered around Energy and Natural Resources can set individuals up for success by seeking out educational institutions near thriving industry players such as those in Texas (USA), Alberta (Canada), or Scotland. That said, aspiring professionals should keep their options open because global business schools offer bespoke MBA programs focused on the energy sector and related fields.

Check out this roster for potential educational outlets if you’re interested:

1. Stanford GSB

The Stanford Graduate School of Business is renowned for its MBA program with a distinct focus on energy and natural resources. This program offers courses on energy markets, policy, and technology to provide students with in-depth knowledge of the industry. Additionally, various research centers and industry partnerships are established to further enhance the learning experience.

drone at a wind-farm

2. MIT Sloan

Similarly, MIT’s MBA program includes a concentration in energy and sustainability. The curriculum encompasses energy economics, policy, and technology courses while providing hands-on experience through the Energy Ventures Club and Energy Initiative.

3. McCombs School of Business

The University of Texas McCombs School of Business offers an MBA concentration in energy finance and development with courses covering renewable energy sources, financial planning, and energy policy. Moreover, the faculty has actively pursued partnerships with leading energy organizations to ensure students receive real-world perspectives.

4. Ross MBA

Another leading business school that provides high-quality sustainability education is the University of Michigan Ross School of Business. Its Ross MBA program includes a track in sustainability and business that covers relevant topics such as energy management practices and sustainable enterprise models, alongside offering hands-on training through Erb Institute for Global Sustainable Enterprise.

5. Yale

Yale’s School of Management offers its students an opportunity to concentrate on studying Energy markets by offering courses covering this crucial topic along with policies and technology domains. Their Yale Center for Business provides practical training opportunities for students looking to gain experience in business management and environmental problem-solving skills.

6. Technological Institute of Oregon

One of North America’s most popular renewable energy programs is the Bachelor of Science and Master’s degree in Sustainable Energy Engineering offered by Oregon Institute of Technology. In this way, they help students create, manage, and execute green energy solutions. Math, physics, and chemistry are all covered, as well as resource management, wind energy, photovoltaics, and fuel cells, all of which make up the core curriculum.

Do Green MBA Degrees Provide Value? A Closing Remark on Sustainable Management Master’s Degrees

Is there any practical benefit to being an MBA student? An MBA in sustainability is definitely worthwhile. Several doors may be opened for you after you have your MBA. An MBA with a concentration in sustainable energy management provides you with expert knowledge in your chosen sector. It’s possible that you’ll get paid quite well for your efforts.

There is a plethora of excellent institutions offering MBA programs with a focus on sustainability. Green MBA programs are now the most distinctive indicators of green business transformation.

If you’re interested in making a difference for the planet’s future, enrolling in and completing a green MBA degree is a great first step.

Zero Waste Manufacturing: How Can We Transition to a Circular Economy?

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Waste is an inevitable aspect of being human in today’s world — or so most people believe. But what if we told you that reducing and even eliminating waste is possible? All we have to do to get to that point is convince a few key industry sectors to start doing things a bit differently. Basically, we need to transition to a circular economy model.

If you’ve never heard of the term, we can’t blame you. Most people don’t go around researching the economic system they live in — let alone alternative methods of production. Still, learning about circular economy is a great way to introduce other concepts — like Zero Waste manufacturing.

zero waste manafacturing

Of course, before we can do all that, we have to be aware of the system we currently have. With that in mind, let’s start by talking about the cause of the waste accumulation we are dealing with today.

Is Linear Economy Outdated?

Most people know that the amount of waste production and accumulation we are fighting against was ultimately caused by our economic system. The principles of linear economy are fairly simple. We take what we need from nature, and we transform these raw materials into products, which we dispose of when they’re no longer of use. Proponents of this system assumed that the planet is capable of providing infinite resources and regenerating an infinite amount of waste.

As we now know, that is simply not the case. So the system’s goal of maximizing production and sales has become impossible to envision without also seeing the eventual consequences.

After all, to keep production cycles going, we also need to create demand. That’s why many commodities we buy nowadays fall apart so quickly. The sooner your shirt rips open at the seams, the sooner you’ll go looking for a new one. But before we start pointing fingers at the fast fashion industry, remember that the system affects all commercial enterprises.

Is There a Different Kind of Approach We Can Opt for?

The excessive production and turnover of commodities we see in the linear economy are all but guaranteed to produce an enormous amount of waste. But as any waste management expert will tell you — it’s never too late to veer toward another approach.

Circular Economy

In recent years, many people have been considering the benefits of transitioning to a zero waste lifestyle. Basically, rather than throwing their used up and damaged items, the goal of Zero Waste is to find a way to use them again. Whether it’s composting, making bags out of ripped jeans, or turning broken pans into planters — people are having to be creative with items they would have otherwise tossed in the trash.

But while most people are familiar with the philosophy in general, not many are aware of who started Zero Waste. Believe it or not, the phrase was coined in the ‘80s. However, Daniel Knapp, one of the first people who formulated the idea of total recycling, didn’t just talk the talk. Instead, he and his wife founded a salvaging market, Urban Ore, to focus on diverting waste from their local landfill and reusing it within the community.

Over the years, their ideas inspired many others to look for ways to reduce their waste production. Eventually, those principles reached the waste management industry and society at large. All through the ‘90s and early ‘00s, “no waste” slogans were everywhere. But where did all that activism lead?

The Birth of Circular Economy

The idea of a cyclical system of production is certainly older than the modern Zero Waste philosophy. However, the concept of a circular economy wasn’t mentioned until 1988. Even then, shifting perspectives around the subject of waste production and management certainly helped popularize the idea.

Ultimately, the philosophies behind these two concepts are closely aligned. Both aim to reduce and eventually eliminate the production of waste. Unlike the linear approach we discussed earlier, circular economy is all about letting the Earth recover and minimizing the amount of raw resources we take from it. But in addition to benefiting the planet, the principles of sustainable production also need to benefit businesses.

After all, rather than paying for raw materials that are directly taken from nature, circular economy advocates for reusing and recycling already-processed materials. That should reduce the cost of production — in theory. Unfortunately, recycling technology is still too expensive for some businesses to invest in. So how can we, as consumers, nudge them in the right direction?

How Do We Start Transitioning to Circular Economy?

On an individual level, one thing we can all do is check our consumption habits. Don’t just throw out old items if you don’t have to. Instead, learn how to mend and transform objects into items you can keep using and loving.

green-economy-coronavirus-pandemic

Additionally, you can transition to shopping from sustainable local businesses. Ultimately, the cost of shipping is much greater than you might think. If nothing else, shopping locally tends to have a lower carbon footprint.

These individual decisions should eventually influence businesses to reduce the number of commodities they produce in the first place. But there’s one more thing we can do to prompt the industry to change its ways. Namely, we can influence policies with our vote.

Getting people to participate in this as a political movement is the best way to put pressure on companies. If there are laws and sanctions in place to regulate the production of commodities and waste, businesses will have to adjust their habits.

Can We Achieve Zero Waste Manufacturing?

As we have previously stated, all we need to transition to Zero Waste manufacturing is a few key industry sectors. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, these sectors should be steel, plastic, and aluminum manufacturing, as well as cement and food industries. By getting these five sectors to reuse materials during the production process in the factory, we could cut carbon emissions by 3.7 billion tons by 2050. New technologies like artificial intelligence are making it possible to make the transition to sustainable product development.

Best of all, the emerging models of circular economy will not only stimulate business growth but also create many new job opportunities. So the sooner we take that leap, the sooner our planet can start recovering.

Waste Management Scenario in Oman

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Waste management is a challenging issue for the Sultanate of Oman due to high waste generation rates and scarcity of disposal sites. With population of almost 3 million inhabitants, the country produced about 1.6 million tons of solid waste in 2010. The per capita waste generation is more than 1.5 kg per day, among the highest worldwide.

Oman_Solid_Wastes_Management

Solid waste in Oman is characterized by very high percentage of recyclables, primarily paper (26%), plastics (12%), metals (11%) and glass (5%). However the country is yet to realize the recycling potential of its municipal waste stream. Most of the solid waste is sent to authorized and unauthorized dumpsites for disposal which is creating environment and health issues. There are several dumpsites which are located in the midst of residential areas or close to catchment areas of private and public drinking water bodies.

Solid waste management scenario in marked by lack of collection and disposal facilities. Solid waste, industrial waste, e-wastes etc are deposited in very large number of landfills scattered across the country. Oman has around 350 landfills/dumpsites which are managed by municipalities. In addition, there are numerous unauthorized dumpsites in Oman where all sorts of wastes are recklessly dumped.

Al Amerat landfill is the first engineered sanitary landfill in Oman which began its operations in early 2011. The landfill site, spread over an area of 9.6 hectares, consists of 5 cells with a total capacity of 10 million m3 of solid waste and spread over an area of over 9.6 hectares. Each cell has 16 shafts to take care of leachate (contaminated wastewater). All the shafts are interconnected, and will help in moving leachate to the leachate pump. The project is part of the government’s initiatives to tackle solid waste in a scientific and environment-friendly manner. Being the first of its kind, Al Amerat sanitary landfill is expected to be an example for the future solid waste management projects in the country.

Solid waste management is among the top priorities of Oman government which has chalked out a robust strategy to resolve waste management problem in the Sultanate. The country is striving to establish engineered landfills, waste transfer stations, recycling projects and waste-to-energy facilities in different parts of the country.

Modern MSW management facilities are under planning in several wilayat, especially Muscat and Salalah. The new landfills will eventually pave the way for closure of authorized and unauthorized garbage dumps around the country. However investments totaling Omani Rial 2.5 billion are required to put this waste management strategy into place.

The state-owned Oman Environment Services Holding Company (OESHCO), which is responsible for waste management projects in Oman, has recently started the tendering process for eight important projects. OESHCO has invited tenders from specialised companies for an engineered landfill and material recovery facility in Barka, apart from advisory services for 29 transfer stations and a couple of tenders for waste management services in the upcoming Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Duqm, among others. Among the top priorities is that development of Barka engineered landfill as the existing Barka waste disposal site, which serve entire wilayat and other neighbouring wilayats in south Batinah governorate, is plagued by environmental and public health issues.

Benefits of Compounding Pharmacies

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Compounding refers to the pharmaceutical preparation of a licensed pharmacist’s drug to meet an individual patient’s unique needs. The patient could either be a human or an animal. Compounding pharmacists perform this procedure when there isn’t a commercially available drug that meets those needs. The U.S Pharmacopeial Convention described compounding as preparing, assembling, altering, mixing, packaging, and labeling a particular drug, a delivery device by a licensed medical practitioner’s prescription.

benefits of compounding pharmacy

The following are the benefits of compounding pharmacies.

1. Allowing Access to Discontinued Medications

Sometimes, large manufacturers discontinue some drugs, making it very hard for patients who still require such medications to fill and manage their prescriptions. Compounding pharmacists play a vital role in the providence and access of such medications through recreating the pharmaceutical-based ingredients.

Therefore, if your prescription was discontinued, pharmacy compounding can ensure that you still get the right medication for your condition rather than searching for a potentially less effective treatment. Compounding pharmacies can access the highest quality of pharmaceutical ingredients to fill a prescription through the latest quality control processes, research, and techniques to meet the patient’s unique needs.

2. Make Medications a Lot Easier to Take

Some medications come with a precisely distasteful and unpleasant flavor. Completing such a dosage can be quite difficult and unsettling for you. You can seek a compounding pharmacist to have them custom make your prescription from scratch.

Better still, you may get an opportunity to pick out the flavor. This aspect of compounding pharmacies is particularly advantageous when dealing with medication of patients that are highly likely to refuse medication, for instance, elderly patients, children, or even pets. If you are attending to such a patient, or are in the position yourself, you may have the medication adjusted to your or their liking.

3. Allowing Patients Alternative Dosage Forms

It’s not uncommon to prefer your dosage in a different form. The most common problem patients face is the difficulty in swallowing their drugs in pill form; it may be easier for them to take their medication in a flavored liquid form.

You may also have your medication compounded in a topical form. For instance, you can have the compounding pharmacist use the active ingredients in your medicine to make a gel or cream that allows the medicine components to get absorbed via the bloodstream through the skin.

4. Make Allergy-Friendly Medications

A sensitive allergy, such as an intolerance to lactose, alcohol, gluten, or dyes may cause you unwanted reactions after taking some medications. In some other cases, it may be that the commercially available medication contains ingredients, such as preservatives and fillers, which your body cannot tolerate due to allergies or sensitivities to the said substances. 

If you are a victim of any of these, it would be advantageous to use a compounding pharmacy. The pharmacist will make a formula of all other active ingredients in the medication and leave out any of the ingredients that irritate your body. That way, you still manage to proceed with the right treatment.

Reach Out to a Compounding Pharmacy

The priority of compounding pharmacies is identifying their patients’ needs. It’s a great way to address medications you still need in order to treat your illness but keep factors such as allergies at bay. Compounding pharmacies can also often provide treatments for the resistant or even treat unusual diseases that the traditionally produced medication has failed to address.

Just like all other pharmacists, compounding pharmacists are professionals with extensive experience and training. Along with their ability to compound medications, the pharmacists will also answer any questions you may have regarding your prescription: doses, side effects, what to do after you miss a dose, and how long it will take the medication to work, and other issues.

How to Wire a 220V Air Compressor Pressure Switch

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Every home and repair shop benefits from an air compressor. However, not every owner knows how to wire a 220V air compressor pressure switch.

Air compressors are used in a variety of ways. This includes inflating toys and tires and powering tools such as drills, sanders, and nail guns.

When you’re wiring a switch for the first time, it may seem like a daunting task. However, with the right guide, the process will be easy.

Start by familiarizing yourself with the different parts of the pressure switch. This way, grasping the step-by-step guide will be easier.

Also, by understanding the switch’s role in the air compressor is to regulate the machine’s pressure, you will be more mindful of the wiring process.

How to Wire a 220V Air Compressor Pressure Switch

What Equipment is Necessary for the Wiring Process?

Before you wire a 220v air compressor pressure switch, you should make sure you have everything you need for the process. This will allow you to work on the pressure switch seamlessly. The necessary items include:

  • Screwdriver
  • Wire strippers
  • Safety gloves
  • Solderless ring terminals
  • Pressure switch

Safety Tips to Consider Before Wiring the Pressure Switch

When working on any electrical equipment, it’s vital to stay safe. This includes trying to install a wire pressure switch on an air compressor. By following the tips outlined below, you will be well equipped to safeguard yourself.

  • You should constantly check the efficiency of your pressure switch to determine beforehand if repairs should be done.
  • Make sure the wires you intend to use have proper insulation.
  • Consider wearing protective clothing, such as gloves and respirator masks, before you start the wiring process.
  • Ensure your hands and the surface around you is dry and free of water.
  • Before connecting terminals and cords, double check the terminal labels and wire colors.
  • Main source of power should be shut off before anything is done.
  • If you’re replacing a pressure switch, make sure its compatible with your air compressor.

How to Wire a 220V Air Compressor Pressure Switch

Step 1: Turn off the circuit breaker

First, ensure that the air compressor and the circuit breaker are near each other for convenience. You should then inspect the circuit breaker to ensure it’s shut off before starting the wiring process. This will prevent unnecessary accidents.

One of the main functions of the pressure switch is to automatically turn the air compressor ON and OFF. This occurs to ensure correct pressure levels in the tank are maintained.

A plugged-in compressor contains power at the switch. This means removing the pressure switch cover will expose live terminals. Working on the air compressor with these live terminals may lead to electrocution.

Therefore, unplugging the main cords of the compressor and double-checking the circuit breaker to ensure its off becomes necessary.

Step 2: Identify the cords and terminals

Once you remove the switch cover, it exposes four terminals(contacts). These terminals are organized as two sets. Most organizations mark these terminals to avoid confusion. One set is marked as LINE, and the other is marked as MOTOR/LOAD.

The two major wires used while wiring the air compressor pressure switch are the power cord (line cord) and the motor cord. The power cord connects to the wall plug and its pressure switch terminal, while the motor cord connects the pressure switch and the motor circuit.

To differentiate the cords, they are normally colored in white, black, and green. The white and black cords are used on the motor terminals. The green cord act as ground wires. They are attached to a metallic section of the switch.

Provided the green wires are correctly attached to the ground point, it doesn’t matter which green wire goes to which of the two spots. A ground wire is essential during electrical installation because it protects the user from shorts in the system.

Step 3: Attach the cords to their terminals

Some cords have soldering attached to the stripped wires. Therefore, all you have to do is attach the cords to the terminals. However, other motor and power cords are not stripped beforehand.

When this is the case, it is up to you to strip the cords. Using a wire stripper, expose the end portions of the wires. Proceed to attach the soldering and these exposed wires.

Check for the terminal markings, and using a screwdriver, loosen the screws. Once you are done, attach the respective cords to their terminals.

Step 4: Restore circuit breaker

Lastly, place the switch cover back on the pressure switch. You can then turn on the compressor by restoring power to the circuit breaker.

Testing your Pressure Switch Performance

Choosing to test your pressure switch to ensure it’s working can make your life easier. This is because you get to determine underlying problems, if any, in advance. A multi-meter/ohmmeter will come in handy during this process.

air-compressor-workshop

You should start by unplugging the compressor. Next, pull the housing from the switch. Remove wires running between the terminal block and the pressure switch. However, leave the motor cords intact.

Remove all the air in the compressor tank. When the pressure in the compressor tank is more than the cut-in pressure, the pressure switch won’t automatically trip.

However, as pressure decreases gradually, it will reach the cut-in pressure of the switch. When this happens, you will see and hear the switch trip.

When the pressure in the compressor tank is lower than the normal cut-in, plug the compressor back in. With the use of an ohmmeter, check if the voltage is flowing to the motor.

If the tank has no pressure, the switch should automatically turn ON, and there should be power flow. If this is not the case, the pressure switch is faulty. This means it’s time to buy and wire a second 220 air compressor pressure switch.

Conclusion

Pressure switches play a major electro-mechanical role in the air compressor. This means they are constantly in use. However, this can cause them to wear out and require replacement.

When your air compressor takes in pressure past the cut-out setting of the pressure switch, it is about time you changed it. Fortunately, you now know how to wire a 220V air compressor pressure switch.

3 Home Designing Tips To Promote Cleaner Air Quality Indoors

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While much of the focus has been on the damage air pollution can do, it turns out the air within our homes maybe even more detrimental. Last year’s Clean Air Day campaign showed that particle pollution levels are a staggering 3.5 times higher indoors than they are outdoors. With the average person spending 93 percent of their lives indoors, every effort must be made to promote clean, safe indoor air quality – including when it comes to designing homes.

Designing a home that promotes good indoor air quality not only encourages better health for you and your family but can save you money on heating costs in the long run.

If you exert effort to promote safer air quality indoors, your home will become healthier and cleaner. Contrary to popular belief, promoting cleaner and safer air quality indoors through the right home design isn’t taxing. Making small changes in different areas of your home and investing in the right tools, such as the Needlepoint bipolar ionization, can go a long way for you and your family to enjoy healthier air indoors. To make this process easier, consider the following tips to promote safer air quality indoors:

safer-air-quality-in-home

Control Outdoor Sources Of Air Pollution With Minimal Cracks, Leaks Or Uncontrolled Openings

A large determinant of indoor air quality is the transmission of outdoor pollution into the home. In an Indoor Quality Survey by UCL, nitrogen dioxide accounted for 84 percent of the variations in air quality. Nitrogen Dioxide is linked to asthma attacks and is majorly attributed to traffic emissions. The presence of nitrogen dioxide inside your home can worsen the symptoms of asthma or can increase your susceptibility when developing such disease.

The report went on to highlight just how important a role the airtight design of a building plays in maintaining optimal air quality. When designing an airtight home, ensuring there is adequate insulation and choosing the right insulation material is important.

New home builders can also benefit from new construction methods like insulation within the home’s frame or the use of structural insulated panels. Final checks for unsealed leaks or cracks should also be done. However, homeowners and contractors should also keep in mind that ventilation is also just as paramount in maintaining good indoor air quality. Therefore, the inclusion of ventilation points, such as appropriately placed windows, should be kept in mind.

Moreover, common entryways such as doors and windows should be free from any kind of cracks and leaks. Homebuilders can now install silicon in the frames of doors and windows, so make sure that you use this material when designing your home.

Ensure You Have An Effective Ventilation System Design And Components In Place

A carefully designed ventilation system ensures that there is a free flow of air throughout the home and that any internal pollutants are flushed out. Ventilation is also important in the prevention and control of mold spores, which can have a large and potentially toxic impact on indoor air quality. Since molds thrive in humid or moist environments, proper ventilation can prevent their growth and the resulting health complications of mold exposure, such as the triggering of asthma symptoms or lung infections. Molds can also become an eyesore indoors, which is why you should ensure that your home has proper ventilation. A well-ventilated home can also increase the comfort of the people living in it, making the space more relaxing.

When designing your home’s ventilation system, you will want a contractor that is experienced and an NICEIC approved ventilation installer for the installation. In addition to adhering to building regulations, be sure to include mechanical switches or CO2 powered sensors for your MVHR unit so the speed can adapt according to changing conditions, such as seasons of the year. You should also consider the air filter size: larger filters allow for greater airflow, but those made with a thinner material can come with an extended life and dust loading abilities.

There are many ways on how you can improve the ventilation of your home. For instance, you can install extractor fans and attic vents or invest in a home ventilation system. There are several products available in the market today that can provide ventilation indoors so make sure to ask your contractors about your options. For you to end up paying and using a ventilation system that fits your needs and budget, do some research online on how these products work.

Choose Non-Toxic Building Materials And Furnishings For Your Home

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are one of the leading types of indoor air pollution and commonly stem from certain liquids or substances such as paint varnishes, building materials, and the finishes on indoor furniture. Research has also shown that concentrations of VOCs can be up to 10 times higher indoors than they are outdoors. Exposure to VOCs can result in both long and short term health complications, including headaches, skin conditions and liver damage.

To avoid this, homeowners can opt for chemical-free building materials such as formaldehyde-free boarding, Rockwool for insulation, and low VOC paints for painting and interior designs. Since you’ll be designing your home, make sure that the contractors understand your needs and will only use these materials.

When it comes to furnishing, choose second-hand furniture over new. Preowned furniture is more likely to emit lower levels of VOC when you buy them, since they stop emitting VOC after the first few initial years. As a bonus, it is much easier on your home design budget as preowned furniture is cheaper than buying brand new ones. For you to score great deals, you just have to exert effort when searching for secondhand pieces.

Key Takeaway Points

With so much time being spent in our homes, it makes sense that homeowners would want to design a home that is as safe as possible, including the indoor air quality. Incorporating simple hacks like these into your home design process can help you design the home of your dreams – and a healthy one at that.

Biochemical Conversion of Biomass

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Biochemical conversion of biomass involves use of bacteria, microorganisms and enzymes to breakdown biomass into gaseous or liquid fuels, such as biogas or bioethanol. The most popular biochemical technologies are anaerobic digestion (or biomethanation) and fermentation. Anaerobic digestion is a series of chemical reactions during which organic material such as human waste is decomposed through is decomposed through the metabolic pathways of naturally occurring microorganisms in an oxygen depleted environment.

Biomass wastes can also yield liquid fuels, such as cellulosic ethanol, which can be used to replace petroleum-based fuels.If you are writing an essay related to this topic experts from the best custom essay service in usa advise you to read and analyze the information provided in this article.

Anaerobic Digestion

Anaerobic digestion is the natural biological process which stabilizes organic waste in the absence of air and transforms it into biofertilizer and biogas. Anaerobic digestion is a reliable technology for the treatment of wet, organic waste. Organic waste from various sources is biochemically degraded in highly controlled, oxygen-free conditions circumstances resulting in the production of biogas which can be used to produce both electricity and heat. Biomass conversion technologies are slowing being built for home boilers also.

The team over at The Solar Advantage says this, ‘”Almost any organic material can be processed with anaerobic digestion. This includes biodegradable waste materials such as municipal solid waste, animal manure, poultry litter, food wastes, sewage and industrial wastes.”

An anaerobic digestion plant produces two outputs, biogas and digestate, both can be further processed or utilized to produce secondary outputs. Biogas can be used for producing electricity and heat, as a natural gas substitute and also a transportation fuel. A combined heat and power plant system (CHP) not only generates power but also produces heat for in-house requirements to maintain desired temperature level in the digester during cold season. In Sweden, the compressed biogas is used as a transportation fuel for cars and buses. Biogas can also be upgraded and used in gas supply networks.

Working of Anaerobic Digestion Process

Digestate can be further processed to produce liquor and a fibrous material. The fiber, which can be processed into compost, is a bulky material with low levels of nutrients and can be used as a soil conditioner or a low level fertilizer. A high proportion of the nutrients remain in the liquor, which can be used as a liquid fertilizer. Many companies are use R&D tax credits to carry out these initiatives.

Biofuel Production

A variety of fuels can be produced from waste resources including liquid fuels, such as ethanol, methanol, biodiesel, Fischer-Tropsch diesel, and gaseous fuels, such as hydrogen and methane. The resource base for biofuel production is composed of a wide variety of forestry and agricultural resources, industrial processing residues, and municipal solid and urban wood residues. Globally, biofuels are most commonly used to power vehicles, heat homes, and for cooking, apart from powering boilers.

The largest potential feedstock for ethanol is lignocellulosic biomass wastes, which includes materials such as agricultural residues (corn stover, crop straws and bagasse), herbaceous crops (alfalfa, switchgrass), short rotation woody crops, forestry residues, waste paper and other wastes (municipal and industrial). Bioethanol production from these feedstocks could be an attractive alternative for disposal of these residues. Importantly, lignocellulosic feedstocks do not interfere with food security.

Ethanol from lignocellulosic biomass is produced mainly via biochemical routes. The three major steps involved are pretreatment, enzymatic hydrolysis, and fermentation. Biomass is pretreated to improve the accessibility of enzymes. After pretreatment, biomass undergoes enzymatic hydrolysis for conversion of polysaccharides into monomer sugars, such as glucose and xylose. Subsequently, sugars are fermented to ethanol by the use of different microorganisms.

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Efficiency and Trust: The Advantages of Blockchain-based Advertising

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Advertising is a crucial component for the growth and success of any business. Traditional advertising methods have evolved over time, with digital advertising becoming the go-to choice for many businesses looking to target their audience through online channels. However, the digital advertising landscape has become increasingly complex and fragmented, resulting in cost inefficiencies, lack of transparency, and trust issues between advertisers and publishers.

benefits of blockchain ad network

Enter blockchain technology – a decentralized, transparent, and secure ledger system that can potentially revolutionize the advertising industry by addressing some of its biggest challenges. In this article, we will explore the advantages of blockchain-based advertising and how it can improve efficiency and trust between all parties involved.

Blockchain Ad Networks: Revolutionizing the Advertising Landscape

Blockchain ad networks are transforming the advertising ecosystem by connecting advertisers and publishers through a decentralized, secure platform. A blockchain ad network offers several advantages over traditional ad network:

  1. Decentralization: Blockchain ad networks distribute control among all parties, promoting transparency and fairness in the ecosystem.
  2. Tokenization: Native tokens or cryptocurrencies simplify cross-border transactions, reduce fees, and incentivize user engagement.
  3. Improved Ad Quality: Smart contracts ensure high-quality, relevant ads, enhancing user experience and trust in digital advertising.

Improved Transparency and Trust

One of the most significant benefits of using blockchain technology in advertising is the enhanced transparency it provides. Traditional digital advertising relies on multiple intermediaries, such as ad exchanges, data management platforms, and demand-side platforms.

These middlemen often operate behind closed doors, making it difficult for advertisers and publishers to gain insight into the ad supply chain, pricing structures, and the validity of ad impressions.

Blockchain technology enables an open and transparent ecosystem where every transaction is recorded on a decentralized ledger that is accessible to all parties involved.

This increased visibility allows advertisers to track their ads’ journey across the supply chain, ensuring they are reaching their intended audience and providing publishers with a clear understanding of how their ad inventory is being utilized and priced.

Moreover, blockchain technology can help build trust among advertisers, publishers, and users by verifying the authenticity of ads and ensuring that they are not fraudulent or malicious. This level of transparency and trust can lead to stronger relationships between advertisers and publishers, resulting in better campaign performance and higher revenues.

Cost Efficiency

The traditional digital advertising ecosystem is riddled with middlemen who add complexity and cost to the process. By removing these intermediaries through a blockchain-based system, advertisers and publishers can save a significant amount of money that would otherwise be spent on fees and commissions.

Additionally, blockchain technology allows for the automation of various processes in the advertising cycle using smart contracts. These self-executing contracts can automatically facilitate ad placements, verifications, and payments based on predefined conditions agreed upon by both parties.

This level of automation not only reduces costs but also streamlines the entire process, making it more efficient and less prone to human error.

Enhanced Data Security and Privacy

Data protection and privacy are critical concerns for both advertisers and consumers in the digital age. With the increasing number of data breaches and growing concerns about user privacy, adopting a more secure data management system is essential for building consumer trust and ensuring long-term success in the advertising industry.

Blockchain technology offers a highly secure solution for handling sensitive data by encrypting it and storing it on a decentralized network. This approach minimizes the risk of data breaches, as there is no central point of failure that can be targeted by hackers.

Furthermore, blockchain-based systems give users more control over their data and how it is used by advertisers, contributing to a more privacy-centric advertising ecosystem.

Accurate Ad Targeting and Performance Measurement

One of the most significant challenges in traditional digital advertising is accurately targeting ads to reach the intended audience. This challenge is often due to the reliance on third-party data providers who may have outdated or inaccurate data.

Blockchain technology can improve ad targeting by enabling advertisers to access verified and up-to-date user data directly from the source – the users themselves. By allowing users to control their data and choose which information they share with advertisers, blockchain-based advertising platforms can deliver more accurate and relevant ads to consumers.

Moreover, blockchain’s transparent nature allows for improved performance measurement by providing advertisers with real-time data on ad impressions, clicks, and conversions. This data can help advertisers optimize their campaigns more effectively, leading to better return on investment (ROI).

blockchain-certified-professional

Reduced Ad Fraud

Ad fraud is a significant issue in the digital advertising industry, costing businesses billions of dollars every year. Fraudsters use various techniques to generate fake impressions and clicks, making it difficult for advertisers to gauge the true performance of their campaigns.

Blockchain technology can help combat ad fraud by providing a transparent and tamper-proof record of all ad impressions, clicks, and conversions. This increased visibility allows advertisers to identify and eliminate fraudulent activities more easily, ensuring that they only pay for genuine engagements with their ads.

Conclusion

Blockchain technology has the potential to revolutionize the advertising industry by addressing some of its most significant challenges – transparency, trust, cost efficiency, data security, and ad fraud. By adopting blockchain-based advertising platforms, businesses can benefit from improved campaign performance, accurate targeting, reduced costs, and enhanced consumer trust.

As the advertising industry continues to evolve, embracing new technologies like blockchain will be essential for businesses looking to stay ahead of the curve and achieve long-term success.

Waste Management in Gaza

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With population of approximately 2.1 million, waste management is one of the most serious challenges confronting the local authorities. The daily solid waste generation across Gaza is more than 1300 tons which is characterized by per capita waste generation of 0.35 to 1.0 kg. Scarcity of waste disposal sites coupled with huge increase in waste generation is leading to serious environmental and human health impacts on the population.

The severity of the crisis is a direct consequence of continuing blockade by Israeli Occupation Forces and lack of financial assistance from international donor. Israeli Occupation Forces deliberately destroyed most of the sewage infrastructure in the Gaza Strip, during 2008-2009 Gaza War inflicting heavy damage to sewage pipes, water tanks, wastewater treatment plants etc.

Waste Management Gaza

There are three landfills in Gaza Strip – one each in southern and central part of Gaza and one in Gaza governorate. In addition, there are numerous unregulated dumpsites scattered across rural and urban areas which are not fenced, lined or monitored. Around 52% of the MSW stream is made up of organic wastes.

Domestic, industrial and medical wastes are often dumped near cities and villages or burned and disposed of in unregulated disposal sites which cause soil, air and water pollution, leading to health hazards and ecological damage. The physical damage caused to Gaza’s infrastructure by repeated Israeli aggression has been a major deterred in putting forward a workable solid waste management strategy in the Strip.

The sewage disposal problem is assuming alarming proportions. The Gaza Strip’s sewage service networks cover most areas, except for Khan Yunis and its eastern villages where only 40% of the governorate is covered. There are only three sewage water treatment stations in Gaza Strip – in Beit Lahia, Gaza city and Rafah – which are unable to cope with the increasing population growth rate. The total quantity of produced sewage water is estimated at 45 million m3 per annum, in addition to 3000 cubic meters of raw sewage sludge discharged from Gaza Strip directly into the sea every day. Sewage water discharge points are concentrated on the beaches of Gaza city, Al Shate’ refugee camp and Deir El Balah.

The continuous discharge of highly contaminated sewage water from Gaza Strip in the Mediterranean shores is causing considerable damage to marine life in the area. The beaches of Gaza City are highly polluted by raw sewage. In addition, groundwater composition in Gaza Strip is marked by high salinity and nitrate content which may be attributed to unregulated disposal of solid and liquid wastes from domestic, industrial and agricultural sources. The prevalent waste management scenario demands immediate intervention of international donors, environmental agencies and regional governments in order to prevent the situation from assuming catastrophic proportions.

The Importance of Maintaining Your Water Conditioner

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Access to clean water is a fundamental human right according to the United Nations. However, trying to get clean water straight to your home might prove to be a challenge. So to overcome that, you’ve had a water tank and conditioner installed on the rooftop of your house.

But just like any other household appliance that you have, you should periodically maintain your water conditioner as well. To further convince you why you should do it, here are some of the reasons why maintaining your water conditioner is important:

1. Any of the various parts of your water conditioner could eventually wear out over time

There could eventually come a time when your water conditioner might suddenly malfunction, thus compromising your previously clean water supply. But instead of needing to replace your entire water conditioner with a brand-new one, you might want to check first if any of its parts have worn down over time. Maybe you’ll only need to change an O-ring or the conditioner valve – and save money in the process.

water-conditioner-maintenance

2. Keeping your water conditioner in tip-top shape ensures that unwanted chemicals are always removed from your water supply

The groundwater in your area generally isn’t safe to drink as it contains various contaminants including, but not limited to, chlorine, ammonia, and chloroform. If you haven’t maintained your water conditioner since you had it installed, anyone in your family might resort to drinking water straight from the tap and then fall ill after experiencing the effects that its various contaminants can bring to them.

Thus, you should always make sure to do periodic maintenance of your water conditioner so that the water running all throughout your house is safe for everyone to drink from.

3. A well-maintained water conditioner helps prevent hard minerals from building up in your plumbing

Even if the groundwater in your area has been treated so that it doesn’t have many contaminants, it may still contain large traces of hard minerals that can accumulate in your plumbing over time. This buildup of hard minerals can cause your water flow rate to decrease, and having a malfunctioning water conditioner wouldn’t do any wonders to your plumbing either.

Regularly maintain your water conditioner so that no hard minerals damage your plumbing.

Aside from either fixing your house’s plumbing on your own or asking for the help of a plumber to get rid of those hard mineral clogs for you, you should also check your water conditioner and ensure that it’s functioning properly. Don’t forget to regularly maintain your water conditioner so that no hard minerals damage your plumbing.

4. Periodically maintaining your water conditioner helps avoid the occurrence of scaling

Another adverse effect that hard minerals in groundwater can bring – aside from causing plumbing clogs as already mentioned above – is scaling. If you’ve noticed that your kitchen sink and bathroom drains, as well as the head of your shower, have turned brown, that’s scaling right there. You can remove the hard minerals deposited on your drains and shower head by thoroughly scrubbing them. But as long as your water conditioner isn’t working as it should, you have to expect the same scaling to happen repeatedly.

You should therefore periodically maintain your water conditioner so that your drains and shower head always look good as new – no matter how much water passes through them.

Conclusion

Clean water can sometimes be hard to come by, most especially if groundwater in your area is scarce during certain times of the day. Thus, having a rooftop water tank and conditioning system installed so that you and your family won’t run out of clean water to use is one of the wisest decisions that you could ever make.

You wouldn’t want to leave your water conditioner unchecked though as it can put you and your family’s health at risk. Instead, you should maintain your water conditioner. It’s entirely up to you if you want to maintain your water conditioner yourself or hire the services of a professional when needed.