LED Lighting has been in the news quite frequently recently, mostly because it offers a more cost-effective alternative to traditional lighting. If you’ve heard the talk, but are wondering why LED lighting is trending or you’re considering a plan to convert to LED lighting, you may wonder if it’s worth all the hype. Here are the top reasons why converting to LED lighting just makes sense.
1. Save Money
The most obvious reason why people are converting to LED lighting is that doing so saves them money. Not only do they use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs, but they also last up to 25 times longer as well. This means that you’re paying less for the energy required to light your home or office and you’re buying fewer bulbs over time. If you don’t like any other reason on this list for converting to LED lighting, saving money is reason enough to do it.
2. Better Technology
LED lights have better technology than incandescent bulbs, which means they’re significantly more efficient. LED lights emit light in one direction, so you can light up a specific area much more easily than with an incandescent bulb that emits light in many directions. You also will limit your need for reflectors and diffusers, particularly if you’re using light to illuminate a specific space. LED lights are perfect for hobbyists who need to direct light immediately in front of them.
3. Safety
Safety is another major reason why people convert to LED lighting, especially parents. LED lights do not emit nearly as much heat as incandescent bulbs, so the risk of burns is almost nonexistent. Additionally, they aren’t going to light anything around them on fire because of their heat, so you can have LED lights near curtains or other fabrics and not worry about them being a fire hazard.
4. Eco-Friendly
Since LED lights use up to 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs, they’re better for the environment. Much of the electricity produced in the world today originates from fossil fuels, which are limited in supply. We need to protect our fossil fuel reserves as much as possible, so using less energy is a critical step toward healing the planet.
5. Better Lighting
When compared with fluorescent lighting, LED lights are much less harsh on the eyes, but they provide the same amount of light or even more. You can actually use fewer LED lights than fluorescent lights to produce the same or better lighting effects. Plus, you’ll get no annoying hum either.
6. Possible Rebates
In addition to saving money in energy and bulb replacement costs, you may also get a rebate from your utility company or local government for converting to LED lighting. These entities have a stake in reducing the amount of energy you use, so they sometimes offer money back for taking steps to reduce your energy consumption.
Conclusion
There are few downsides to converting to LED lighting. In fact, you will see the benefits of converting almost immediately with better lighting and increased safety. The money savings will come a little later, but once it does, you’ll wonder why you didn’t convert earlier.
Global warming is one of the most discussed issues of the present times. Our planet is facing a crisis, and hence, we are all in the midst of danger. However, we have not reached the dead-end yet. So, there is so much that we can still do to save mother earth. The individual efforts count the most and can go a long way if everyone decides to play their part.
If you are a creative person who wants to decorate their home while trying to maintain a sustainable lifestyle, you would have noticed how most ways to decorate a house have a big carbon footprint. Don’t worry, you do not have to give up home decor to care for the environment. The following are some eco-friendly decor ideas that are sure to fetch you a ton of compliments on your aesthetic and mindful approach towards the environment.
Inculcate Houseplants
Who does not love greenery? It is the best way to stay close to nature while staying indoors. In the modern lifestyle, our living spaces are becoming more cramped than ever. Plus, not everyone is lucky enough to have a green bed of twenty-five cubic yards. However, that does not mean that you have to live without a touch of nature.
The easiest way to do so is by cultivating houseplants. It can be done pretty much anywhere and placing them in gorgeous bottles and containers can amplify the appeal. If you plan on adding a lot of houseplants, make sure to get high-quality glass containers from a trusted glass bottles manufacturer.
Go Vintage
The old school décor has been making rounds again. So, this is the perfect time to go thrifting and to rummage through your grandma’s stuff. It is one of the best and responsible ways to save money and to recycle old, discarded things lying in your home.
So, to start with, make use of those vintage suitcases that we all have in our attics. Dust them off and with the help of a little DIY, you can turn them into a table. Attach wooden dowels to the painted suitcase to turn it into a side-table. The fact that you did not have to buy anything new, and didn’t use any fuel to go to the supermarket, gives this DIY a small carbon footprint.
Make Use of Old Textbooks
When you are in the process of redecorating your space, it sounds quite tempting to get rid of everything that has not served you its purpose in years. But do not throw away your old textbooks. Use them to your advantage because there are plenty of DIYs that you can do.
For instance, renew your old lamp by pasting some old pages on your lampshade and stack some books under it. Remember, recycling is the first step to ensuring that you do not produce a lot of waste that is harmful to the environment. So, let your creative side shine and up-cycle old items and turn them into fun home decorations.
Make Your Own Scented Candles
Scent and fragrance have been serving us for ages. When your environment smells great, it gives a sudden uplift to your mood. There is nothing better than coming home after a long day, lighting a candle, and feeling the stresses of the day melt away.
But instead of buying your candles or investing in expensive air freshener dispensers, you can make your own scented candles at home. The following are the supplies that you will need for this:
Melt it and add a few drops of your favorite essential oil.
Hold the candle wick into the jar and carefully pour the melted wax.
Wait for the wax to become solid and cut the extra wick that is sticking out.
Voila! You have your own organic candle!
Invest in LED Lighting
The idea may sound a little intimidating if you look at the cost but there is nothing that pays off like LED Lighting. The traditional lighting system is a huge source of energy waste, not to mention the massive power that they consume. So, it is an excellent decision to invest in LED lighting and ensure that you are not hurting the environment. So, accessorize your home with some elegant LED Lights, that are not just reliable but also completely eco-friendly.
Conclusion
It is truly a domineering task to redecorate your home and to bring novelty to your creativity. To top it all, there is this added pressure of being environmentally responsible. However, if you are determined to contribute to your planet, now is the right time. For starters, just staying conscious about the waste and resources will eventually become your second nature. And soon, you would not have to think twice before taking on a task as daunting as eco-friendly home décor.
There is a pressing need more than ever for sustainable, renewable energy sources. In comes the concept of bioenergy – harnessing power from organic matter with multiple benefits including waste reduction. Below, you can explore this further.
Defining Bioenergy
You’re already familiar with sources like solar, wind or hydroelectric power – these are common renewable energy forms that harness natural elements to generate power. There’s one form that has been under attention lately due to its double benefit – it’s called bioenergy.
Bioenergy refers to generating power from biological and organic materials known as biomass or biofuels. These range from plant sources like wood and crops to waste-derived ones like animal manure and sewage.
Types of Bioenergy
The types of bioenergy depend on the source material (biomass) as well as the conversion process used. Take for instance wood- it can be directly burned for heat or processed into pellets that can be combusted more efficiently. Additionally, plants, agricultural residues and their by-products can be converted using various techniques into liquid fuels such as ethanol.
Another source of biomass is organic waste itself which contains a large amount of potential energy when correctly managed.
Importance of Bioenergy
Bioenergy holds an important place in human efforts towards sustainable living because, unlike fossil fuels, it is renewable. Biomass regrows over time so supplying it continuously is possible without depleting the earth’s resources permanently.
Furthermore, if humans maintain a balance in growth and use of biomass, people won’t add extra carbon dioxide to the atmosphere – another huge advantage considering greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuels. This makes bioenergy a potentially carbon-neutral or even carbon-negative energy source.
Role of Fast Rubbish Removal
Companies like Same Day Rubbish Removal Ltd play an instrumental role in facilitating waste minimization. This entity specializes in efficient garbage disposal, ensuring the least amount of waste ends up in landfills, which is not only eco-friendly but also a great strategy in resource management.
By sorting out organic wastes suitable for bioenergy production, they make it easier for power plants to convert it into bioenergy without the initial step of waste collection and segregation.
Bioenergy from Household Waste
Your household waste might not seem like much, but collectively it amounts to huge volumes with potential for energy production. Organic kitchen scraps such as vegetable peels, fruit rinds, eggshells and coffee grounds are all high-energy potential biomasses for bioenergy production.
When composted properly, these items provide nutrient-rich biomass that can generate valuable energy.
Processing Organic Waste
The processing of organic or green waste to produce bioenergy involves several steps – depending on the method and desired end-product. Some methods could deal with using heat or thermochemical conversion while other methods may depend on biochemical processes involving organisms or enzymes.
The advantage of these methods lies in the ability to harness the chemical energy stored in the complex organic molecules of wastes, converting them into simpler forms that you can then use as fuel. This essentially turns waste into wealth – a win-win for everyone and for the planet.
Conversion Techniques for Bioenergy
The technique for converting organic waste to bioenergy depends on the material and desired end product and includes thermochemical and biochemical methods. Thermochemical techniques use heat – pyrolysis, gasification and combustion. Biochemical techniques use microbes or enzymes – fermentation, anaerobic digestion and composting.
Dry, woody waste suits thermochemical conversion to yield fuel oils, syngas or heat. Wet waste containing high moisture works better biochemically to produce ethanol, biogas or compost.
Tailoring the conversion process to the waste stream optimizes bioenergy output. This versatility makes organic materials a renewable power source supporting a sustainable future.
Thermochemical Conversion Process
This type of conversion uses heat in the absence or presence of oxygen to break down organic material. The results depend on the process: Combustion completely converts biomass into heat and ash; pyrolysis, which uses no oxygen, produces liquid bio-oil, biogas and bio-char; while gasification breaks down biomass into synthetic gas or ‘syngas’.
These products can then be used directly for energy or further processed into other forms of energy like electricity or transportable fuels.
Biochemical Conversion Process
Unlike thermochemical processes, biochemical conversions use microbes or enzymes rather than heat. Fermentation employs yeast or bacteria in oxygen-free environments to produce biofuels like ethanol.
Anaerobic digestion also utilizes microorganisms on wet organic material, generating biogas for energy and nutrient-rich fertilizer.
Leveraging natural biological agents, these chemical-free methods unlock energy from biomass sustainably. The renewable end-products power homes, vehicles and industry while nourishing soils, showcasing bioenergy’s versatile potential.
Benefits of Bioenergy Production
Bioenergy generation presents multiple benefits both to you and the environment. As we’ve been highlighting, it’s an exceptional tool in waste reduction but also plays a role in climate change mitigation by providing a cleaner, renewable alternative to burning fossil fuels.
Plus, bioenergy production sparks the local economy by providing jobs, it improves energy security by decreasing dependence on international fossil fuel supplies and supports the agricultural sector via demand for biomass crops.
Limitations and Challenges
While the benefits of bioenergy are plentiful, the sector is still fraught with challenges and limitations. The cost of setting up bioenergy facilities, as well as the complexities of logistics and supply chains for biomass material, slow down adoption rates.
In addition to this, bioenergy also competes for land use with food production leading to ethical considerations about food security.
Solutions to Conversion Challenges
The issues faced in adopting bioenergy are not insurmountable. There are myriad pathways being explored to solve these roadblocks. For instance, using waste biomass such as agricultural or forestry residues instead of dedicated energy crops could alleviate pressure on land use.
Technological innovations are making conversion processes more cost-effective and efficient. Policymakers also have an important role to play in creating conducive environments for investments in bioenergy technology and infrastructure.
Scientific Innovations in Bioenergy
Advancements in biotechnology and genetic engineering hold significant potential for improving bioenergy processes. Scientists are developing genetically modified microorganisms that increase efficiency and output of bioenergy conversion. They are also exploring ways of improving biomass crop yields while minimizing their environmental footprints.
On the utility side, innovations are happening in technology for capturing and converting energy from waste biomass – such as advanced boilers and turbines, and more efficient biofuel vehicles.
Policies Promoting Bioenergy
The development and implementation of favorable policies play a critical role in promoting bioenergy adoption. Certain countries have included bioenergy objectives in their National Renewable Energy Action Plans or similar documents to support the sector’s growth.
Such policies often include targets for renewable energy shares, feed-in tariffs for renewable energy production or fiscal incentives for investments in renewable energy technology. These signals from the government encourage investment and boost the sector’s expansion.
Future Prospects of Bioenergy
Bioenergy’s future shines brightly as global renewable energy commitment strengthens. Rising climate change awareness drives further adoption of sustainable power sources like bioenergy.
The European Union’s aim to source 20% of total energy from renewables by 2020 relied heavily on bioenergy contributions. Ongoing research also continues enhancing bioenergy’s efficiency and sustainability.
With these supportive conditions, bioenergy systems look poised to maximize their clean energy output for years to come. Their renewable nature provides a critical solution for meeting present and future energy needs in an eco-friendly manner.
Eco-Friendly Transition
Bioenergy presents an enticing solution in the pursuit of sustainable living. It introduces an effective way to minimize waste while producing clean, renewable energy at the same time. Despite certain logistical and technological challenges currently faced by the industry, the joint forces of scientific innovation and supportive policy creation are set to propel this vital resource into mainstream use for future generations.
I recently took a 5-month break from my work as an environmental consultant to volunteer with Marine Conservation Philippines (MCP) on the issue of marine litter. During the first few months of my stint there, we undertook an intense programme of beach cleans across sections of a small sample of local beaches. The idea was to find out what kinds of material were most prevalent, to inform the types of local initiative we could set up to try and tackle the issues.
Consistently, the vast majority of the debris we found strewn across the beaches across the Philippines was plastic; a significant amount of that was soft plastics which can’t be recycled – plastic bags, sweet and crisp packets, and single use soap and detergent sachets. There were some variations, though: at one beach, we kept picking up a staggering amount of styrofoam.
During our beach clean work and engagement with local communities, it became increasingly apparent that part of the problem was the variability of waste management across the municipality of Zamboanguita, in the Negros Oriental province of the Philippines.
Despite national legislation, some areas received no formal waste collections at all. With the help of the local Coastal Resources Manager, Tony Yocor, we began to engage with the local municipality’s Solid Waste Manager with the view to supporting appropriate an affordable waste management practices.
We focused on solutions that have been successful elsewhere in the Philippines and in other emerging markets, such as the local collection and waste sorting approach developed by Mother Earth Foundation. Unfortunately, as with most places in the world, influencing the authorities to act takes time, and whilst we started to make some progress, Tony and the staff at MCP are still working on trying to get the full range of local solutions we identified implemented.
Materials and markets
We did, however, build our own ‘MRF’ (more of a community recycling centre in UK terms) at MCP’s base to improve the management of the waste we collected. The main aim of the site is to allow as many recyclable materials as possible to be segregated so that they can be sold to the local junk shops. We also hope that this can act as a demonstration site for the types of simple solutions that can be set up locally to improve waste management.
But ultimately, if we are serious about tackling this issue of marine debris, we have to reduce the amount of litter we produce, and many countries are making progress on tackling commonly littered items. Restrictions on single use carrier bags are amongst the most prominent and widespread anti-littering measures around the world.
England’s 5p carrier bag levy was introduced in 2015 and, despite its limitations, is reducing bag usage and (it would seem) marine litter. Last year Kenya hit the headlines when it joined the growing list of countries adopting a rather stricter line: it banned plastic carrier bags entirely, with offenders risking heavy fines or even imprisonment.
Although bans and restrictions are becoming increasingly widespread, they have not yet reached the Philippines at a national level and it seems no coincidence that a large proportion of the items we found littered on our sample beaches around Zamboanguita were plastic bags. One beach, close to where the largest ‘ghetto’ market is held weekly, had a particularly high incidence of plastic bag litter, and the quantity increased noticeably on, and just after, market day. Use wholesale tote bags to promote sustainable living in the Philippines.
Without national instruments in place, we explored what could be done with the policy powers available to the local government. Working with the local Markets Officer and Coastal Resources Manager we put the wheels in motion to propose and implement a local ordinance to introduce a charge on plastic bags, initially at the market as a trial, with the potential for a wider roll-out if successful. It’s a model that could be reapplied elsewhere in the Philippines if national legislation isn’t forthcoming.
Sachet and sea?
Plastic bags are a challenge, but because they’re distributed locally it’s relatively easy to change practices. Other forms of single use packaging contribute just as much to the litter problem afflicting many South East Asian counties, but are harder to tackle because their source is more remote.
The Philippines, like many developing and emerging economies, is a ‘sachet economy’, with a huge range of products sold in one-portion, single-use sachets. You see them everywhere, from small ‘sari sari’ stalls to large shopping centres. The producers’ perspective is that this form of packaging represents a form of social responsibility, allowing them to provide safe, long-lasting, affordable products that meet people’s needs. However, they have a wider cost.
Sachet society: one of the most common forms of litter in the Philippines. Photo courtesy of Amy Slack.
I was involved in Break Free from Plastic Negros Oriental’s December beach clean and audit, and these sachets were the most common item we found. They accounted for a massive 25% of the items picked up from Dumaguete beach, beating plastic bags into second place (13%).
The waste management system in the Philippines simply isn’t geared up to dealing with this increasingly popular type of packaging – the composite materials of which they are made are impractical to recycle and so lack the economic value that engages the interest of the informal sector. So, what could be done to help?
The Best Foot Forward
There is no ‘silver bullet’ to instantly lay marine litter to rest. Even if there was a global ban on single use plastics today, it would take time for already littered material to blow or wash its way through the system.
However, introducing a compulsory extended producer responsibility (EPR) mechanism into policy could help end the blame game that currently impedes action: producers blame the general public for littering, the general public blame the government for inadequate waste systems, and government blames produces for manufacturing plastic packaging.
An EPR scheme would see government giving clear responsibilities to business, and ensuring that producers fund collection and reprocessing schemes to properly manage the waste from the products they sell in the Philippines. That would in turn incentivise producers to use more easily recyclable packaging, as the costs of managing this material would be lower.
The goal need not be to try to ape the waste management systems of the West, which may not be suitable in the circumstances. And in the Philippines, where labour is cheap and informal waste management thrives, it may take little more than giving a small value to packaging products to greatly reduce the amount of material that escapes into the environment.
Conclusion
Although countries like the Philippines currently struggle most to cope with the consequences of plastic packaging waste, with the right set of policies and determined volunteers to help organise local action, there is scope for them to catch up and overhaul the West in developing solutions that really do reduce litter.
Note: The article has been republished with the permission of our collaborative partner Isonomia. The original version of the article can be found at this link
In just a few decades plastics have become omnipresent in our society. But, unfortunately, the consequences of their use last far beyond their useful lifetime. Everyone is aware of their overwhelming dispersion in our landscapes. The situation in the oceans is not better [1]. As a reaction, a few thoughts spring to my mind.
First of all, it is clear that the industry is assuming very little responsibility, and that Public Administrations are complicit with this. Extended Producer Pesponsibility (abbreviated as EPR) only affects –and only partially– those plastics used as light packaging, in vehicles, in tyres or as part of electric and electronic equipment, not any of the others. Also, recycling levels are not sufficiently high, as a result of poor separate collection systems and inefficient treatment facilities. As a consequence, society has to face not only the problems created by those materials which are not recycled, but also has to assume a high share of the costs of managing them as waste.
Secondly, it illustrates the importance of the quality of the materials that we aim to recycle, and thus the importance of separate waste collection; for all materials, but particularly for biowaste. Although most composting and anaerobic digestion facilities have the capacity to separate some of the impurities (of which around 40% can be plastics), this separation is far from perfect.
Two recent studies confirm that the quality of compost is influenced by the presence of impurities in biowaste [2] and that, in turn, the presence of impurities is influenced by several factors [3], among which particularly the type of separate collection scheme, door to door separate collection models being those presenting better results.
Thirdly, it makes clear the urgency to adopt measures that address the root of the problem. High quality separate collection and sound waste treatment are necessary, and allow enormous room for improvement, but they are end-of-pipe solutions. It is also important to promote greener consumption patterns through environmental awareness campaigns, but this is not enough either.
We have to address the problem where it is created. And this requires measures of higher impact, such as taxes on certain products (e.g. disposable ones) or on certain materials, compulsory consideration of eco-design criteria, generalisation of the extended producer responsibility or prohibition of certain plastics (e.g. oxo-degradable ones) or of certain uses (e.g. microplastic beads in cosmetics).
One can think that these measures are a bit too hard, but honestly, after wandering around beaches and mountains, and finding plastics absolutely everywhere, I am bit disappointed with the outcome of soft solutions.
On 16th January 2018 the European Strategy for Plastics in a Circular Economy was adopted [4]. A number of measures will need to be applied by the European Union (listed in Annex I of the Strategy), by Member States and by the industry (Annex II), but also by Regional Governments and Local Authorities. No doubt that implementing the Strategy will bring about significant advances, but only time will say if it is sufficient to address the huge challenge we face.
The European Union has also recently adopted the much-awaited Directive 2019/904 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 June 2019 on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment[5], which introduces several bans and restrictions on different uses and materials. This is indeed a huge step, which needs to be followed by others, both in Europe, but also elsewhere, as this is truly a global challenge.
[2] Campos Rodrigues, L., Puig Ventosa, I., López, M., Martínez, X. (2016) Anàlisi de la incidència dels impropis de la FORM sobre la qualitat del compost de les plantes de compostatge de Catalunya https://tinyurl.com/y37ncton
[3] Puig-Ventosa, I., Freire-González, J., Jofra-Sora, M. (2013) Determining factors for the presence of impurities in selectively collected biowaste, Waste Management and Research, 31: 510-517.
[5] Directive 2019/904 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 June 2019 on the reduction of the impact of certain plastic products on the environment.
Although gardening has been proven to have significant mental health benefits, let’s be honest, sometimes it can feel like hard work. Moreover, if sustainable gardening practices are not followed, it can have adverse effects on the environment. Fortunately, incorporating eco-friendly practices into your gardening routine is simple. The range includes methods for improving your home using eco-friendly garden decor and garden plants.
1. Make the Most of LED Light Bulbs
When you want to explore sustainable home improvements, a great way to start is by switching to energy-efficient lighting. Just replace any burnt-out lightbulbs with LED bulbs. It’s a straightforward and inexpensive step that makes a significant impact.
While LED bulbs may have a slightly higher initial cost compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, their long lifespan and energy savings make them well worth the investment. You can use LED bulbs for general household lighting, as well as for holiday or landscape lights.
2. Grow your own food
What plants are best to help the environment? These are local plants, and this is where you should start your journey. They are better adapted to climate conditions and require less maintenance. One of our best environmentally friendly gardening ideas is to cultivate your own vegetables and herbs. Not only will you enjoy the process of seeing your plants grow, but you’ll also reduce your carbon footprint.
The good news is that you don’t need a large plot of land to start growing your veggies. With the plant identifier app, you can find plants for almost any condition. In the plant app, you can create a farm for yourself right on your balcony or organize a vegetable garden of any size. You should use the best plant identifier app for Android and iPhone to identify plants easily. However, this is not the only ability of the app for plants, as there are recommendations for care, special plant preferences, etc. Even if you are an inexperienced gardener, the app for iPhone will help fill the knowledge gap.
3. Combine Plants Correctly
How do you live an eco-conscious lifestyle? This means taking care of your garden first. Eco-friendly and organic gardening promotes the presence of beneficial organisms while deterring harmful pests. One effective method is companion planting, where two plant species with mutual benefits are grown together.
With numerous plant combinations to choose from, here are some noteworthy pairs:
Tomatoes and chives: These garden staples work well when planted side by side. Chives emit a strong scent that deters aphids and pests, safeguarding the tomatoes without impacting their flavor.
Garlic and potatoes: Another powerful duo, garlic repels pests that commonly affect potatoes and other tubers. Planting garlic between potato rows helps fend off Japanese beetles, onion flies, and moth species.
Carrots and leeks: The scent of these vegetables confuses their respective predators. Leeks repel carrot flies, while carrots repel onion flies and leek moths.
Peppers and basil: Basil acts as a protective plant, keeping aphids, spider mites, and fly species at bay. It’s also believed to enhance the flavor of peppers.
4. Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances
Energy-efficient appliances have witnessed significant advancements in recent decades, reducing heat loss in ovens and retaining cold in freezers. When shopping for new appliances, prioritize those certified by Energy Star, which indicates compliance with the U.S. Department of Energy’s stringent energy efficiency standards.
Even if you’re not currently considering upgrading your appliances, you can enhance energy efficiency by covering pans while cooking, opting for smaller appliances when feasible (like a toaster oven instead of a full-sized oven), and running your dishwasher or washing machine only when they are full.
5. Upgrade Windows and Doors
Windows and doors in homes can result in considerable energy loss. During winter, poorly insulated ones permit heat to escape, while during summer, they allow heat to enter, making it challenging to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. This becomes even more problematic when single-pane glass windows or poorly sealed ones are used.
There exist several methods to enhance the energy efficiency of windows and doors:
Opt for double- or triple-paned windows featuring low-emissivity coatings.
Choose doors equipped with weather stripping and a tight seal.
Install window coverings like blinds or curtains to minimize heat transfer.
6. Use Drought-resistant Plants
Growing plants that require minimal watering is one of the most effective and low-maintenance methods to reduce water usage. The popularity of drought-resistant plants, such as grasses, shrubs, cacti, and low-lying flowers, is increasing due to their water-conserving properties and ease of care.
Lavender, rosemary, yarrow, and sage are among the favored choices for drought-resistant plants. Before introducing any plant to your garden, always ensure that it is not considered an invasive species in your area. Additionally, prioritize local plants over imported species whenever possible.
Conclusion
Home improvement and plant care are interrelated activities that are often perceived as separate. To achieve a sustainable lifestyle, it is highly advisable to grow your own food and conserve resources. All this can be achieved using the tips above.
The solar-powered generator industry is slowly but gradually expanding. Solar-powered all-in-one portable stations are a modern substitute for traditional fuel-powered generators.
A solar generator is a fantastic way to have additional energy available whenever the light goes out. Whether you need to charge your devices, turn the lights on, or go to a place with no electricity available. Solar generators are becoming a popular and cost-effective solution for people who want to go off-grid and experience the benefits of a sustainable lifestyle. Solar energy is a wonderful alternative, since it enables you to free yourself from static energy sources, relying on nature’s clean energy instead.
There is a continuous debate on whether these solar-powered generators are superior to traditional generators. In this post, we will examine the pros and cons of solar generators to help you decide whether it is a good option for you or not. But, before we get into it, what exactly is a solar-powered generator?
What is a Solar Powered Generator
The term “solar generator” is misleading. Solar generators are frequently rechargeable batteries that may be powered by using a 200W solar panel.
The operation of a solar generator differs significantly from that of a normal generator powered by fossil fuel. They have certain technical specifications and very different mechanisms.
A solar generator’s basic configuration includes a rechargeable battery, a solar charger, an inverter, and single solar panel or multiple solar panels. Energy is captured through the solar panels, and the solar charger then sends it to the rechargeable battery. Finally, the inverter transforms the DC power into an AC power supply.
Pros of a Solar Powered Generator
1. Unlimited Solar Energy
Because the sun’s energy is almost unlimited and virtually free of charge, solar panels allow you to access a boundless energy supply. However, it is not entirely free because solar power equipment must first be purchased.
In addition, as compared to diesel or gasoline, solar energy is far more commonly accessible in most distant places. As long as the sun shines, you can never face a shortage of solar energy.
And what to do when the sun goes down? As previously stated, solar-powered generators usually have all-in-one power stations, which means you can also charge it through other sources. Aside from solar energy, the primary power sources are conventional alternating current (AC) energy from a wall outlet or by a vehicle through the CIG connection.
2. Low Running Expenses
Another economic benefit of solar energy is that it is not susceptible to dramatic price changes like diesel or gasoline. Once you’ve purchased the solar power system, your ‘fuel’ expenses will be consistent.
A solar generator has very low operating expenses than a portable generator fueled by gasoline. You do not need to purchase fuel because solar energy is free to absorb, and you do not need to change any oil.
The absence of moving components also lowers the possibility of requiring replacement or repair for the spare parts. So, while solar generators require a larger initial cost, their operating expenses are lower than conventional portable generators powered by fuel.
3. Eco-Friendly Alternative
The traditional gasoline-powered generator emits toxic fumes containing carbon monoxide, which is a severe health hazard, and that is why they should only be operated outdoors where you can keep them at a safe distance from other people and structures. Solar-powered generators emit no toxic fumes, making them the safest alternative, even suitable for interior usage.
Cons of a Solar Powered Generator
1. High Initial Cost
Solar generators are significantly more expensive to purchase than standard gas generators. Solar-powered generators, on the other hand, have significantly reduced running expenses. As a result, you will spend less money during the lifespan of your solar generator.
2. Limited Energy and Output
You can only recharge your solar-powered generator’s batteries when the sun is out. Although we do have other alternatives for charging them, it takes a lot more time than a fuel-powered generator. A standard solar generator will take almost six to eight hours to fully charge and provide a 100 watts output. As compared to that, you do not need to recharge a gas generator. You refuel them, and they are good to go!
Your energy output also depends on the size of your solar-powered generator. The size and weight restrict how much solar energy it can absorb and how much electric output it can provide you. Your solar generator cannot supply electricity to an entire house. It can be used for small appliances, charging devices, and for a limited time.
To put it simply, the weight and size of your solar generator are proportional to the amount of power it can retain. You can use a solar power generator as a compact alternative for moderate use. So, if you wish to use an output of 1500 watts or more, you should probably opt for an inverter generator as a lightweight option.
Now that you are aware of the pros and cons of solar generators, you will have a clear idea of which one to buy and whether you should buy it or not. Good luck!
Going green is a viable business strategy if you’re looking for ways to become a sustainable brand. Doing so won’t only significantly reduce costs but may also potentially attract new customers and supporters. That’s why it’s no longer a surprise when entrepreneurs are considering renewable energy in powering up their companies. This isn’t impossible to achieve thanks to technology, especially if you’ve done enough research and you’re in it for the long haul.
Renewable energy isn’t difficult to understand. It means collecting useful energy from sources that are renewable and won’t be depleted even when used constantly. These include solar or wind power. The process involves continuous replenishment of energy, which you can take advantage of as a business owner. Depending on how flexible you are as a company, shifting to renewable energy might just be one of the best investments you could make.
No matter what your goal may be for making the switch, here are some ways you could start turning to renewable energy for your enterprise.
1. Know Your Options
As there are different types of renewable energy sources, doing your research is a good starting point. This is for you to know your options and make a decision accordingly. If your facility has considerable roof space, you may consider turning to solar energy. This turns the sun’s energy into electricity that you can use for your business. If you’re from Florida, solar companies in Miami like Airis Energy Solutions and others would be more than willing to have a discussion. This may include how you can take advantage of the infinite benefits of the sun and its energy.
Florida is a good location considering its adequate exposure to sunlight. To add, being in the US qualifies your business for a tax credit. This is in return for using renewable energy for your business power needs. Aside from solar power, you could also tap into other energy sources such as commercial wind from turbine blades, hydroelectricity, and biomass from organic matter.
2. Weigh The Cost Vs. Benefits
As a business, one of your priorities is to make sure every cost should justify the benefits you’ll gain out of an investment. Since you’re considering shifting your business to renewable energy, it’s essential to realize and analyze the cost of each of your options. By doing so, you could decide better. Solar panels, for example, may come with a hefty upfront cost. However, if you think about the return of investment it can potentially give, it’s something to consider. Also. many panels have around 20-25 years of warranty in them.
On the other hand, micro wind turbines may be cheaper, but their lifespan is shorter. You could opt for larger sizes, but of course, you also need to consider the space you have. Additionally, it requires maintenance and the environmental permits you may need to obtain from your local government or municipality’s office.
3. Turn It Into An Advocacy
Going green is brilliant advocacy that won’t only allow you to save on electricity costs. To add, you can attract more customers and supporters. You may do this if you amp up your public relations and highlight how you’re trying to make a difference in saving the planet. No matter how small the impact may be, it feels good knowing you can contribute to the environment. For sure, your customers would also be more motivated to spend money on a brand that cares.
4. Involve Your Employees
Environmentally conscious advocacy isn’t just something you can impose on the organization. You need to ensure your employees are educated and informed about. This is needed so you can all work together in achieving the goal. Doing so will encourage everyone on the team to support the cause.
Aside from renewable energy sources, you can also consider adopting a sustainable and eco-friendly approach in the workplace. You could provide learning materials that’ll teach everyone how to conserve energy. Also, you may come up with recycling programs that could potentially reduce commercial wastes. A paperless office can also go a long way in going green for your business. For example, using a paystub will allow you to deliver paystubs digitally, therefore saving on paper which preserves energy. Check out the best paystub generator free to save on money and the environment.
Involving the employees, staff, and colleagues is a positive experience that can surely help you achieve a desirable and sustainable outcome for the company.
Conclusion
Shifting to renewable energy is something that all businesses should consider, no matter the size and nature of the industry. With the planet’s resources slowly but surely depleting, it’s about time to think of ways to contribute. If all establishments and workplaces would start to feel like this, all efforts won’t surely be wasted.
Know your options when thinking of a renewable energy source. Make sure you weigh the cost of investment to determine if it’s worth the benefits. Turn your goal into advocacy, and don’t forget to involve your employees so you can work hand in hand in achieving a common objective.
Green technology is big business. From climate change activists like Greta Thunberg to plastic bag tax and programmes like Blue Planet highlighting the tidal wave of plastic in our oceans, we are all increasingly aware of the devastating impacts of pollution. Therefore, the demand for green or greener ways of doing things is high. If you’re an entrepreneur or start-up and you have an idea or prototype for a green technology, you can capitalise on this increased demand.
One of the things you’ll need to consider is whether you want to get a patent for your invention. A patent gives you the right to take legal action against anyone who makes, sells or imports your invention without your permission and the patent application process for green technology is slightly different than for other inventions. Here we look at how to do it.
What is green technology?
Green technology, or green tech, is an umbrella term that refers to any technology that has an environmentally friendly production process; a technology that mitigates or reverses environmental damage; or even a clean energy production process, such as solar energy.
The goal of green technology is to be sustainable, protect the environment, and even repair past damage. Whether it’s new ways of recycling, renewable energy sources or LED lighting, there are lots of different types of green technology that we currently use, but as we continue to see the effects of global warming rise, humankind needs to do more.
The patenting process
Before you start the patenting process, you need to consider whether a patent is right for your invention. Not all inventions have a large financial value, and the cost and expense of securing a patent could outweigh the profit potential of your invention. In addition, from research to confidentiality agreements to filing your application, there are many stages to the patenting process, so it is best to consult the skills of an experienced patent lawyer, such as a member of the team at Withers.
What is accelerated processing?
The usual time frame for a patent to be processed can be anywhere from a year to four years. However, the Green Channel for patent applications, which was introduced in 2009, allows you to request accelerated processing of your application if your invention has an environmental benefit. You must be able to prove that this is the case.
If, for example, it’s the process that your invention is made by that is green, rather than the product itself, you will need to be able to explain this, and your request may be refused by the Intellectual Property Office (IPO) if they do not consider your invention to meet the criteria for the Green Channel. The IPO keeps a database of all published Green Channel patent applications. The most recent ones include a method and apparatus for oil condition monitoring and a road pollution extraction system.
If you’ve got that killer green idea, not only could you be helping to save the planet, it could be a profitable endeavour, so it’s essential that you protect it if necessary. By following the advice above, you could see your product brought to market sooner than you think.
We might be living amid a pandemic, but that hasn’t slowed down global waste production. If anything, we’re producing more waste now than we were at the beginning of the year with the addition of disposable gloves, masks and other personal protective equipment. What changes do we need to make to manage COVID-19-related waste?
Handling More Waste
Before the pandemic, most cities maintained recycling programs. Commercial waste generally outweighed residential waste, and there was plenty of space in the local landfills for the garbage we throw away. Now, it might not be long before cities are looking for new places to store their trash as landfills overflow. Residential waste production increased by anywhere from 20%-30% in the months since the pandemic started.
Much of this is due to the simple fact that people are spending more time at home. They’re getting takeout — which comes with a plethora of single-use plastics — and they’re ordering their necessities online, which means more packaging to throw away. Add to this the risk that the coronavirus may live on surfaces for days or weeks at a time, and COVID cleaning becomes more challenging by the day.
Managing the Risks
Despite fears of COVID-19 persisting on surfaces, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) believes waste workers are only at a moderate risk as a result of their occupation. Additionally, waste workers only merit a medium risk rating if they’re working directly with healthcare waste for patients with confirmed cases of COVID-19. This information hasn’t stopped cities and counties across the country from closing down or even entirely shuttering their local recycling programs, though.
Managing these risks also reduces any liability that the waste management company might encounter if someone in their employ gets sick from handling contaminated waste. Usually, liability complaints get restricted to chemicals and other hazardous wastes, but until we definitively understand how COVID-19 spreads, it extends to this situation as well.
Lighting a Fire
Some countries, where COVID trash is piling up with no signs of stopping, have begun considering alternative means to manage the waste. Spain, which only has three sanitary waste processing plants in the Catalonia region, has seen medical waste production increase by 300%-350% in the worst-impacted regions of the country since the beginning of the pandemic. Instead of trying to push those processing plants to their limits, Spanish officials are exploring other alternatives.
Incineration is becoming an option in hard-hit regions like Catalonia. While stabilization plants can only manage 50 tons of waste a day, the incinerators eliminated upwards of 700 tons of garbage between the start of the pandemic and mid-April. While incinerators aren’t generally employed for waste-to-energy initiatives anymore, burning the trash rather than letting it fester in a landfill may be one of the only ways to make the best of a bad situation.
Starting Now
Very few people alive today have ever lived through a global pandemic. For the most part, we’re making things up as we go. The shift from commercial to residential waste was expected as more people started staying home to slow the spread of the virus. While we might have anticipated it, we definitely weren’t prepared for it, and we may find that overflowing landfills are tomorrow’s problem.
Starting now, we need to start looking at COVID-19 trash as a whole. That includes the problems it might create and the best ways to manage it without backpedaling and losing all the sustainability progress we’ve made over the last couple decades. COVID-19 will likely be a part of our lives for many months to come, so we’ll have to adapt if we want to survive and thrive.
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