Environmental Costs of Glitter

While there are no clear estimates of the amount of glitter sold each year, its distinctive ability to disperse makes it a disproportionate contributor to environmental problems. Glitter particles are easily transferred through the air or by touch, clinging to skin and clothes. Its ability to spread is so notorious that there are companies that will ‘ship your enemies glitter’ that is guaranteed to infest every corner of their home.

Glitter has even been used in forensic science to show that a suspect has been at a crime scene. This characteristic, and the plastics it contains, makes it something of an environmental peril. It causes problems for paper recyclers: glitter on cards and gift wrap can foul up the reprocessing equipment, and even contaminate the recycled pulp.

Glitter is a Growing Problem

Most glitter is cut from multi-layered sheets, combining plastic, colouring, and a reflective material such as aluminium, titanium dioxide, iron oxide, or bismuth oxychloride. It therefore contributes to the more than 12.2 millions of tonnes of plastic that enters the ocean each year – not least when people wear it and then wash it off. Worse still, glitter is a microplastic, and there are growing concerns about these tiny pieces of material entering the marine food chain and harming marine life.

The polyethylene terephthalate (PET) that is often used in glitter is thought to leach out endocrine-disrupting chemicals, which, when eaten by marine creatures, can adversely affect development, reproduction, neurology and the immune system. According to Evol Power, PET can also attract and absorb persistent organic pollutants and pathogens, adding an extra layer of contamination.

When molluscs, sea snails, marine worms, and plankton eat pathogen or pollutant-carrying particles of glitter, they can concentrate the toxins; and this concentration effect can continue as they in turn are eaten by creatures further up the food chain, all the way to our dinner plates.

Time for Action

As consciousness of the environmental damage caused by glitter increases, some are taking drastic action. In November 2017 Tops Days Nurseries a group of English nurseries banned glitter for its contribution to the plastic pollution problem. But our attraction to sparkly things is literally age old, and won’t be given up easily.

Research has demonstrated that humans are attracted to shiny, sparkly things, which is thought to stem from our evolutionary instinct to seek out shimmering bodies of water. As early as 30,000 years ago, mica flakes were used to give cave paintings a glittering appearance, while the ancient Egyptians produced glittering cosmetics from the iridescent shells of beetles as well as finely ground green malachite crystal. Green glitter fans might well wonder if environmentally friendly glitter is available, and there is in fact a growing market of products that claim eco credentials.

Shining examples

British scientist Stephen Cotton helped develop ‘eco-glitter’ made from eucalyptus tree extract and aluminium. This appears to be sold by companies like EcoStarDust, whose short list of materials included only ‘non-GMO eucalyptus trees’. Their website explains if you leave your glitter in a warm, moist and oxygenated environment then it will begin to biodegrade, with the rate depending on the mixture of these factors. However, it is not clear that a product that may release aluminium into the environment deserves a green vote of confidence.

Wild Glitter another company also explains their sparkles are made from natural plant based materials but they don’t a lot of detail about how they’re made and what happens to them once used. Other brands, such as EcoGlitterFunBioGlitz and Festival Face, offer biodegradable glitter made from a certified compostable film.

Awareness about the environmental damage caused by glitter is steadily increasing

However, it is difficult for a consumer to be sure, without a good deal of research, that such products will break down quickly and harmlessly in the natural environment – or whether they require specific industrial composting processes.

Other manufacturers are turning instead to natural ingredients that add shine and sparkle; environmentally conscious cosmetic brand LUSH uses ground nut shells and aduki beans in its products. They also started using inert mica to create sparkly things, like the cave painters from millennia ago. Unfortunately, this meant trading an environmental problem for a human rights one: difficulties with the natural mica supply chain made it impossible to guarantee that the process was free from child labour, prompting a forthcoming switch to synthetic mica.

Parting Shot

There’s a lot of grey area when it comes to choosing greener glitter, and little objective evidence available regarding the environmental impacts of the different alternatives. I’ve seen little sign, for example, of a glitter product that claims to be compatible with paper and card recycling processes. But it’s crystal clear that, with enormous variety of options available, it should be possible do without glitter made from PET – even at Christmas.

 

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

Why Electric Cars Are A Luxury: Understanding The Cost And Benefits

Electric cars have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their environmental benefits and technological advancements. However, it is important to acknowledge that electric cars are still considered a luxury item for many consumers. While the cost of electric cars has decreased over time, they are still significantly more expensive than traditional gas-powered vehicles.

is electric car a luxury

One reason why electric cars are a luxury is due to their advanced technology. Electric cars use complex batteries and motors that require specialized maintenance and repairs. The cost of these services can be significantly more expensive than traditional cars, making electric cars a luxury item for those who can afford the additional expenses. Additionally, the infrastructure for charging electric cars is still developing, making it difficult for those without access to a personal charging station to use electric cars as their primary mode of transportation.

Another reason why electric cars are a luxury is due to their limited availability. While many major car manufacturers have started producing electric cars, they are still not as widely available as gas-powered cars. This limited availability can make it difficult for consumers to find the specific electric car they want, forcing them to pay a premium price for a luxury item. Additionally, many electric cars come with additional features and amenities that further increase their price, making them even more of a luxury item.

  1. Economic Implications of Electric Vehicles
  2. Technological Advancements in Electric Cars
  3. Environmental Considerations and Social Status
  4. Market Trends and Consumer Behavior
  5. Charging Infrastructure and Range Anxiety

Economic Implications of Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles (EVs) have long been seen as a luxury item due to their high cost. While the price of EVs has been decreasing over the years, they are still more expensive than their gasoline-powered counterparts. This is due to several factors, including the cost of batteries, which are the most expensive component of an EV.

However, there are also economic benefits to owning an EV. For one, EVs are significantly cheaper to operate than gas-powered vehicles. According to a study by the Union of Concerned Scientists, the average EV owner can save over $700 per year in fuel costs alone. This is because electricity is generally cheaper than gasoline, and EVs are much more efficient at converting energy into motion.

In addition, EVs require less maintenance than gas-powered vehicles. This is because they have fewer moving parts and don’t require oil changes. This can save owners hundreds or even thousands of dollars over the lifetime of the vehicle.

Despite these benefits, the high upfront cost of EVs can be a barrier for many consumers. However, there are government incentives available to help offset the cost. For example, in the United States, there is a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 for the purchase of a new EV. In addition, many states and local governments offer additional incentives, such as rebates or tax credits.

Overall, while EVs may be seen as a luxury item due to their high cost, there are economic benefits to owning one. As the cost of batteries continues to decrease and more government incentives become available, EVs may become a more affordable option for consumers.

Technological Advancements in Electric Cars

Electric cars have come a long way since their inception, with significant technological advancements being made in recent years. These advancements have made electric cars more efficient, reliable, and luxurious. Here are some of the significant technological advancements in electric cars:

Increased Range

One of the most significant advancements in electric cars is the increase in range. With the development of high-capacity batteries, electric cars can now travel further on a single charge. This has eliminated range anxiety, making electric cars a more practical option for long-distance travel.

Faster Charging

Another significant advancement is the development of faster charging technology. With the introduction of fast-charging stations, electric cars can now be charged in a matter of minutes rather than hours. This has made electric cars more convenient for daily use, as drivers can charge their vehicles while running errands or grabbing a quick bite to eat.

benefits of electric car VIN

Enhanced Performance

Electric cars are also becoming more powerful and faster. With advancements in electric motor technology, electric cars can now accelerate faster and reach higher speeds than ever before. This has made electric cars more appealing to car enthusiasts who value performance and speed.

Increased Charging Points

With the increase in the popularity of electric cars, there has been a significant increase in the number of charging points available. This has made it easier for electric car owners to find a charging station when they need one, eliminating the fear of running out of power.

Overall, these technological advancements have made electric cars more luxurious and appealing to a wider audience. As technology continues to advance, we can expect electric cars to become even more efficient, reliable, and luxurious in the future.

Environmental Considerations and Social Status

Electric cars have been touted as a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. While this is true to some extent, it is important to consider the entire life cycle of an electric car, from production to disposal.

The production of electric cars requires rare metals such as lithium and cobalt, which are often mined in environmentally damaging ways. Additionally, the production of electric car batteries requires a significant amount of energy, which often comes from non-renewable sources.

However, once an electric car is on the road, it produces zero emissions and can help reduce air pollution. This is especially important in urban areas, where air quality is often poor.

Aside from the environmental benefits, owning an electric car can also be seen as a status symbol. Electric cars are often associated with wealth and technological sophistication, as they are typically more expensive than traditional cars.

In some circles, owning an electric car can signify a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. This can be seen as a form of social status, as individuals who prioritize these values may be seen as more virtuous or enlightened.

Overall, while electric cars may offer some environmental benefits and social status, they are still a luxury item that is out of reach for many people. It is important to consider the full impact of electric cars and the societal implications of their ownership.

Market Trends and Consumer Behavior

Electric cars have become increasingly popular in recent years, but they are still considered a luxury item for many consumers. Market trends show that electric cars are often purchased by individuals who are financially stable and can afford the higher upfront costs associated with these vehicles.

According to a report by McKinsey & Company, consumers who purchase electric cars tend to be highly educated and have higher incomes. These consumers are often interested in the latest technology and are willing to pay a premium for it. In addition, many electric car buyers are environmentally conscious and want to reduce their carbon footprint.

Despite the higher upfront costs, the demand for electric cars is growing. In 2020, electric car sales increased by 43% compared to the previous year, according to the International Energy Agency. This growth is expected to continue as more countries implement policies to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles.

Electric cars are the future of eco-friendly transportation

However, there are still some barriers to widespread adoption of electric cars. One major factor is the lack of charging infrastructure, which can make it difficult for consumers to use these vehicles for long trips. In addition, some consumers may be hesitant to switch to electric cars because of concerns about range anxiety and the availability of charging stations.

Overall, market trends and consumer behavior show that electric cars are still considered a luxury item for many consumers. While the demand for these vehicles is growing, there are still barriers to widespread adoption that need to be addressed.

Charging Infrastructure and Range Anxiety

Electric cars are often seen as a luxury due to the current state of charging infrastructure and range anxiety. While gas stations are plentiful and easily accessible, charging stations for electric cars are still limited and can be difficult to find. This can be a significant issue for those who rely on their car for long-distance travel or daily commutes.

Range anxiety is a common concern for electric car owners, as the limited range of electric cars can make it difficult to plan long trips without worrying about running out of power. While many electric cars now have a range of 200-300 miles, this is still significantly less than most gas-powered cars, which can travel 400-500 miles on a single tank.

To combat range anxiety, electric car manufacturers have been working to improve battery technology and increase the range of their vehicles. However, this can come at a significant cost, making electric cars even more of a luxury item.

In addition to range anxiety, charging infrastructure can also be a significant barrier to electric car ownership. While many cities and towns now have public charging stations, they are often limited in number and can be difficult to find. This can make it difficult for electric car owners to plan trips and ensure that they have access to charging when they need it.

Overall, while electric cars offer many benefits, including lower emissions and reduced fuel costs, they are still seen as a luxury item due to the current state of charging infrastructure and range anxiety. As technology continues to improve and charging infrastructure becomes more widespread, electric cars may become more accessible to the average consumer.

5 Ways You Can Protect the Environment as a Student

In today’s world, where environmental concerns like climate change and pollution are at the forefront of global discussions, it’s crucial for individuals, including students, to take actionable steps toward protecting our planet. Students, in particular, have a unique position in society – they are learners, future leaders, and influencers. Here are five practical ways students can contribute to environmental conservation and inspire others to do the same.

environmental conservation for students

1. Embrace a Sustainable Commute

One significant way students can protect the environment is by rethinking their daily commute. Opting for greener modes of transportation such as walking, biking, carpooling, or using public transport can drastically reduce carbon emissions and decrease the ecological footprint. Walking or biking, for instance, conserves energy, reduces pollution, and promotes physical health. Public transport is more eco-friendly for longer distances than personal vehicles.

By making conscious choices about how to get to school or college, students can play a crucial role in mitigating air pollution and contributing to cleaner, healthier air in their communities.

Many learners have numerous assignments on their hands, preventing them from adopting various practices to protect the environment. This is where a uk custom essay writing service can come in handy. Outsourcing some of your assignments allows you to free your schedule and spend adequate time incorporating effective environmental solutions.

2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

The “reduce, reuse, recycle” mantra is more relevant than ever in our consumer-driven society. Students can lead by example by minimizing waste, reusing products, and recycling materials. Start by reducing consumption – ask yourself if you need that new item or if there’s a way to use what you already have.

Embrace digital note-taking and textbooks to cut down on paper usage. Opt for products with minimal packaging, and always carry a reusable bag, water bottle, and coffee cup. Participate in or organize recycling drives in your school or community to ensure that recyclable materials don’t end up in landfills, contributing to pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.

3. Support and Promote Sustainable Practices on Campus

Students can be powerful advocates for sustainability within their educational institutions. Join or start a green club to promote environmental awareness and initiatives such as campus cleanups, tree planting, or establishing a community garden.

Advocate for using renewable energy sources for campus facilities, and encourage the administration to adopt sustainable policies, including waste reduction and recycling programs. By mobilizing fellow students and working together, you can create a more sustainable campus environment that sets a precedent for other institutions.

4. Educate Yourself and Others

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to environmental protection. Take the time to educate yourself about our planet’s challenges, including climate change, deforestation, and biodiversity loss. This knowledge will empower you to make informed decisions and take effective action.

Share what you learn with others through social media, blogs, school projects, or casual conversations. Raising awareness and spreading knowledge can inspire your peers and community members to take steps toward environmental conservation.

5. Volunteer for Environmental Causes

Active engagement in environmental causes can make a tangible difference. Look for project opportunities to volunteer with local environmental organizations and participate in reforestation projects, beach cleanups, or wildlife conservation efforts. These activities contribute directly to environmental protection and provide valuable hands-on experience and the chance to connect with like-minded individuals. Volunteering can be a powerful way to demonstrate your commitment to the environment and inspire others to take action.

Summing Up

As students, you have the energy, passion, and potential to impact environmental conservation significantly. By adopting sustainable habits and advocating for change within your communities and institutions, you can contribute to protecting our planet

How To Pick An Environmentally-Friendly Crystal?

Some stores may try to sell you a variety of healing crystals, but you must conduct your study to know what you’re buying. Not all crystals are created equal, and without more examination, you’ll never know for sure if they do what they promise to do.

Most healing crystals claim to come from trustworthy sources; however, they all come from mines, and not all mines are created equal. Many smaller family-owned miners are excavating and distributing the crystals. There is no illegal labor in such mines; thus, you can rely on crystals for love and healing crystal supplies.

how to choose eco friendly healing crystals

Inquire at the Crystals Shop

Inquire with the seller or owner about the origins of the crystals. Inquire about the crystals’ polishing, transformation into jewelry, and so on. Crystals have a higher carbon footprint than other highly processed meals.

It’s possible, however, that they don’t want to provide the information.

Quality is More Important than Quantity

Do you need ten of each if you can get the same effect with just one excellent crystal? If you don’t want to spread each of the ten crystals across your home for your convenience, you could settle for a high-quality crystal.

Look for Trustworthy Sources

The bulk of crystals is sourced from impoverished countries where people are compelled to work in hazardous and life-threatening conditions. If they originate from a family-owned mine, it’s probably fine to buy them. Rose quartz, for example, is supposed to provide affection, self-love, and healing.

Long-Lasting Crystals You Can Rely On

Our mind, body, and soul will need to commune with nature on occasion to heal and refresh, and here is where crystals and gems may help. This is why it is vital to buy crystals and gems used for their original purpose.

Here’s a quick review of the most popular crystals and jewels on the market, as well as when they can be helpful:

  • Auralite – for stress alleviation, happiness, and relaxation.
  • Calcite – increases energy and promotes health.
  • Fluorite – improves one’s mood and reduces stress.
  • Himalayan Quartz – help with personal development and healing
  • Rose Quartz – emotional healing and love

Carnelian

This semi-precious quartz stone is one of the most popular orange stones. If you do the research on what is carnelian good for, you’ll find a lot of good properties of it. But most commonly, this stone is known as a stone of courage, endurance, energy, leadership, and motivation.

The healing crystals industry has increased in popularity during the last five years. Nobody expected it, yet more and more individuals seek help from healing crystals.

How To Pick An Environmentally Friendly Crystal

They utilized them for everything from personal healing to energy purification to home decoration to attract positive energy and repel negative energy.

If you appreciate crystals and care about the environment, you should be cautious when purchasing them. We all know that crystals do not grow on trees and that getting them from the earth is a time-consuming and even dangerous operation.

The best everyone you can do is learn about the origins of the crystals you want to buy for personal healing. There are environmentally friendly mines owned by ordinary people rather than giant corporations that collect crystals in the safest possible way.

So, do your research, ask around, and shop wisely. Keep in mind that your efforts will be rewarded in the end. Good luck in your search for the best eco-friendly healing crystals.

3 Ways to Refresh Your Home in the New Year

You’ve most likely set personal goals for the new year, but have you considered how your personal space can impact your progress?  A clean, healthy, and peaceful home base is necessary for incubating new habits or commitments.

Read on for some ideas on how to spruce up your home and give yourself a better chance of meeting your goals this month.

ways to refresh your home

1. Reset with a Deep Clean

Deep cleaning is traditionally reserved for the spring, but a professional cleaning will keep you and your family safe and healthy all winter long. So before you settle into your home, search for a “Deep Cleaning Service Near Me” and find a company that will protect everyone in your home.

Disinfecting surfaces is an effective method of disinfecting indoor spaces. However, cleaning companies are experts in finding the often overlooked parts of your home that could use the disinfecting power of a professional.

Not only will this help to improve the appearance of your home, but it will also get rid of all the extra dirt and dust hiding in your home’s crevices, as well as the germs that make you susceptible to illness.

2. Bring in Plant Life

Gardening and having plants in your home don’t just have to be for aesthetics. Gardening is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air while enjoying nature’s benefits.

Working with plants can be therapeutic, and studies have shown that it can also help with concentration. If you work from home, you may notice that having plants near your desk increases productivity and creativity. This may be due to how calm we feel when in the presence of nature — even nature that is brought into our homes.

indoor-air-cleaner

Plants help improve indoor air quality by emitting oxygen and absorbing harmful toxins. They can also attract beneficial insects that prey on common pests like mosquitoes. Overall, it makes your home a healthier place.

If you already have plants in your home, you’re ahead of the game! If not, try introducing some plant life to help refresh your home and support your goals for the new year.

3. Update your Lightbulbs

How often have you struggled to find the perfect lighting in your house? Whether it’s for Zoom calls or a relaxing meal, getting the proper lighting can instantly improve your living experience and even your mood. It can also help reduce your electricity bills and your carbon footprint.

There are plenty of great options for finding ways to improve your home’s lighting, including smart light bulbs and LED lights.

energy efficient home

With multicolored Wi-Fi-enabled bulbs, smart lightbulbs can easily change hues and mood. You can even have customized lighting on a timer! These smart LED bulbs are also voice-activated and can be controlled via an app, making it easy to ensure that the lights are turned off when you leave the house.

Regular LEDs will do just the trick if you aren’t ready to convert to WiFi light bulbs. They not only last longer than standard lightbulbs and help you save money on your electricity bill, but they also benefit the environment. You will use less electricity as a result of their efficiency. You’ll also be lowering your carbon footprint because replacing bulbs less frequently means less waste and fewer light bulbs used over time.

When something as simple as changing your lightbulbs helps not only you but the environment as well, it makes it quite a no-brainer.

Take on the New Year

Keeping your home clean, healthy, and peaceful is essential in accomplishing your goals in the new year. Whether it’s a professional deep cleaning, introducing plant life, or replacing old light bulbs, give yourself every opportunity to have your best year yet.

Reducing Your Swimming Pool’s Carbon Footprint

Pool ownership has responsibilities. Obviously pools need cleaning and maintaining. But, they also impact the environment. With thoughtful changes, pool owners can reduce their carbon footprint easily. By doing so, pool owners can enjoy cutting costs too while still enjoying refreshing swims.

green swimming pool

Why Green Swimming Pools?

Going green makes sense beyond just being eco-friendly. Greener pools promote sustainability through efficient water and energy use. This saves money and preserves environmental resources. Beyond that, sustainable pools also filter water more effectively, creating healthier swimming conditions. So green pools are better for both the planet and the people swimming in them.

Determinants of Pool Efficiency

A pool’s efficiency depends on several interconnecting factors. Construction materials used can increase or reduce efficiency over time. Pool owners will get more value from durable, high-end materials than cheaper alternatives which require frequent replacement. Filtration systems also play a major role. Sand filters cannot match the energy-efficiency of cartridge or DE filters. Overall, upgrades in equipment and materials pay off through greater efficiency and longevity.

DIY Pools And Spas – Eco Solutions

As concerns grow over environmental sustainability and energy prices, services such as DIYPoolsAndSpas.com stands ready to provide homeowners complete solutions towards eco-friendly swimming pools. From cutting-edge natural sanitizers to intelligent pump controllers, the extensive catalogs offer options to achieve both maximum enjoyment and eco-consciousness for home pool owners.

These companies have experienced teams that thoroughly consult with clients to identify ideal upgrades and savings specific to their pool size, usage patterns and peak operational difficulties. Often, this leads users to recommend variable speed pumps, energy-miser covers and solar heat exchangers to cut back water and power usage dramatically based on the client’s needs and lifestyle.

These sustainable systems then integrate with occasional doses of mineral-based algaecides for natural water purification instead of burning excessive chlorine chemicals as the sole treatment method. Together, their sustainability-focused equipment and expertise on application guides pool owners towards refreshing, crystalline waters produced through environmentally-gentle means.

Energy-Efficient Pool Pumps

Out of all equipment involved with running a pool, pumps typically consume the greatest share of electricity by constantly circulating water through filtration and heating systems. Even while performing lighter tasks like skimming small debris or distributing low levels of sanitizers, older pumps run at maximum speed 24/7 resulting in sky-high energy bills and emissions.

Thankfully, modern variable speed pumps provide a simple route to drastic efficiency gains. Instead of operating at 100% speed at all times, these advanced pumps automatically adjust speed and flow based on factors like temperature differentials and filter pressure. For lighter tasks like mixing in chemicals or preserving heat overnight, pumps minimize speed and energy usage while still keeping water gently moving to avoid stagnation. During periodic heavier backwash filter cleaning cycles requiring maximum flow, variable speed pumps instantly ramp up to full capacity then return to slower speeds afterwards.

Benefits of Variable Speed Upgrades

In real terms, variable speed upgrades often chop 60-80% from pump energy usage compared to inflexible single-speed models while still meeting pool circulation needs. Reduced runtime also equates to less noise and wear. These substantial savings from converting to variable speed pumps rewards pool owners through lower monthly bills and resource consumption, often repaying the pump investment via electricity savings in just a few seasons of use. Plus, most utility companies offer hefty rebates to homeowners switching to energy-efficient pool pumps which improves cost savings even further.

For the ultimate in eco-friendly pumping efficiency, choosing variable speed pumps sporting proprietary “smart pump” features optimizes energy usage even more by self-regulating speeds continuously based on usage factors. BUILT-IN intelligence prevents wasteful over-pumping and maintains perfectly ideal flows for cleaning and heating with no owner effort required. When combined with multi-speed or flow-based pool cleaners and chemical dispensers, these brainy, high-efficiency pumps become the heart of a self-managing pool maximizing enjoyment while minimizing resource waste.

Solar Pool Heaters

Traditional heaters guzzle electricity and emit greenhouse gasses. Solar heaters utilize nature’s free renewable energy instead – the sun. By efficiently harnessing solar power, these systems maintain comfortable water temperatures with zero emissions or energy costs.

LED Pool Lights Solutions

Swapping older bulb lighting for LEDs greatly shrinks electricity use and carbon footprint. While less efficient bulbs require frequent replacing, LED lights consume far less energy while illuminating pools beautifully at night. Their long-lasting performance and ability to create multi-colored effects makes LED lighting a win-win choice.

Pool Cover Importance

It may not seem exciting, but a pool cover is crucial for efficiency. Much water and heat are lost through evaporation without one. A cover forms a barrier minimizing evaporation, trapping heat, and reducing water replenishment costs. This simple addition cuts resource waste substantially.

Optimized Water Filtration

Clean and healthy water relies on effective filtration. However traditional systems can tax resources through excessive energy and water use. Advanced solutions like high-efficiency cartridge or DE filters improve results while using fewer resources. Their greater filtration effectiveness allows for sparkling clear water while emitting less environmental impact.

Salt Water Chlorine Generators

Conventional chlorine adds hazards through chemical storage and over-chlorination risks. Salt chlorine generators provide an eco-friendly alternative by converting salt into chlorine through electrolysis to sanitize pools. This process cuts down on chemicals while saving energy due to its self-regulating nature.

Natural Pool Cleaning Methods

Pool owners can enhance sustainability through natural cleaning approaches instead of solely relying on chemicals. This includes eco-friendly tools as well as mineral and enzyme products better suited for pools. Plants and bio filters also purify water naturally. Such methods promote water quality while protecting the surrounding environment.

Eco-Friendly Pool Building Materials

Sustainability starts with infrastructure. Opting for recycled, local and durable construction materials greatly lessens environmental impact while saving money long-term. Pavers, waterproof liners and other elements made in an earth-friendly manner conserve resources and reduce carbon emissions from the beginning.

Smart Controllers for Pools

Smart technology increases efficiency through automated regulation of equipment like pumps and heaters. Features like remote access, scheduling and weather prediction optimize energy use even when owners are away. Smart controllers grant convenience and sustainability via precision control.

Reuse Pool Backwash Water

An innovative way to conserve water is reusing backwash from filtration cycles. With proper treatment, this water can be repurposed for irrigation or even toilet flushing. Simple reuse mitigates wastage of thousands of gallons each year for free.

Using solar to power filters and pumps means this is a perfect way to reuse water with renewable energy, making your pool even greener.

swimming pool maintenance

Water Conservation Hacks

Beyond backwash reuse, owners can integrate other water-saving strategies. Reducing backwashing frequency, checking for leaks, topping off instead of completely refilling, and shortening showers preserves water in and around the pool. Mindfulness of consumption protects resources for the future.

Alternative Sanitizing Systems

Chlorine isn’t the only option for crystal clear and healthy pool water. Supplemental systems like mineral and ozone generators boost sanitation with less chemicals. Ozone uses oxygen to clean organically and mineral ions inhibit bacterial growth. When combined with some chlorine, such systems achieve the same results while decreasing environmental impact.

Going All Solar Power

For the ultimate sustainability, pool owners can utilize solar power instead of traditional electricity. Solar panels reliably generate clean energy to run equipment. This eliminates emissions from fossil fuel electricity while saving money on your pool long-term. Some regions even subsidize solar installation costs, providing greater incentive to make the switch.

Bottom Line

Eco-friendly pools not only benefit the planet through responsible water and energy use. They also create a healthier and more enjoyable swimming experience at a lower cost for owners. With sustainable upgrades, pool owners can reduce their environmental footprint while preserving the backyard oasis they know and love.

4 Proven Tips to Sleep Better at Night

Many people, including me, have experienced problems when it comes to bedtime, let me tell you that it is something more common than we think. The National Institute of Health (NIH) states indicate that approximately 70 million people in the United States have sleep problems, mainly insomnia. The institute states that an average adult needs 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night to be rested and not experience drowsiness during the day. Sleep problems are often present in adolescents, they generally need around 9 hours of sleep at night, but statistics say that most do not meet those hours.

If you currently have problems with sleep or think you could, the first thing you should do is observe your patterns and habits at bedtime, what you usually do, and how they could be done differently. It is necessary to keep track to see how long you usually sleep during the night and the quality of sleep you feel the next day. It is a precise way of being able to observe when and under what factors you are sleeping better to understand the alternatives and have a plan of action to improve our sleep.

sleep-improvement-guide

After observing your habits and sleep patterns for a few days, try some strategies that you will find in our post below, which will probably help you improve and get deeper sleep, from there, continue making adjustments and you will see that you will soon have sleep as deep as you ever wanted. Here we have a list of things that help you sleep better.

1. Have a sleep routine

All people have in their body a compound called melatonin, it is a natural hormone, whose main function is to regulate the sleep cycle, making it work correctly, improving the quality of sleep. Having a sleep routine makes us promote the action of melatonin in our body, actions such as going to bed at the same time and getting up at a certain time makes our body more predisposed to comply with its sleep schedule, which results in greater well-being and better quality of sleep.

Having a sleep routine implies that we disconnect from all electronic devices so that our brain functions begin to relax, in this way we will enter a phase of tranquility and relaxation. This can also be accompanied by some quiet activity such as reading a book or listening to a podcast. Maintaining bedtime habits is one of the actions that have the greatest effect on our quality of sleep and our well-being in general.

2. Make sure you sleep comfortably

Definitely a good bed is necessary for a pleasant and restful sleep, but what characteristics should a good bed have? A bed should have enough space so that you can move during the night, this depends on the size of each person. On the other hand mattresses come in different sizes, thicknesses and different materials, Air foam mattress materials offers comfort and support that is long lasting and queen mattress with air foam technology is worth to try which improves sleep quality and to be sure it best fits your needs.

A very important aspect is a good protection like a bed comforter since they have the functionality of providing you with comfort and isolating you from the cold. Bed comforters are found in an infinite variety of sizes and thicknesses for all design tastes. Without a doubt, it is an element that you need in your bed to sleep comfortably so you can get a relaxing and restful sleep.

3. Control the light and noise in the room

Light and noise in the room are external elements that we must control since they have a huge impact on the quality of sleep. The darkness causes our brain to begin releasing melatonin and in a calm environment with few sensory stimulations induces us to be calm and completely relax.

Minimizing all the devices that emit light and using blackout curtains that are usually made of a more compact material and do not allow light to pass through, are some things you can do to reduce the effect of light. In the same way regarding noise, we can choose a room away from the noise and add anti-noise windows. Also, try using earplugs as these can be very helpful at a low cost.

4. Exercise and diet

Without a doubt, having a healthy life during the day will provide us the tools we need to be able to sleep better at night. The quality of sleep we have usually is represented by the quality of the day we have lived, that is why both moments of our day have to be in harmony.

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One of the methods that science promotes to live a healthier life is to exercise and eat healthily. Contrary to the common belief you can exercise even with annoying medical conditions such as hemorrhoids. One of the benefits that physical fitness brings is that by doing it our body releases endorphins which is a natural substance that increases the state of well-being and reduces the sensation of emotional pain.

In the same way, together with a balanced diet, it increases our energy during the day and makes us have a more pleasant day to enjoy the activities that we like the most. It is necessary to mention that we must avoid all kinds of drinks that contain caffeine during the night, as this substance can stimulate our sensory system and cause problems at bedtime.

Parting Shot

Sleep problems, if not treated in time, can represent a long-term problem since it can lead to pharmacologic dependence. There are many natural methods to deal with this common and real problem. It is necessary to unite all aspects of our life, focusing and aligning them to the main objective, to be able to have quality sleep for the total well-being of our life. That is why a good healthy lifestyle and correct bedtime habits are the main ingredients for a happier life.

Understanding Hypertension: Symptoms, Causes And Prevention

Blood pressure can be defined as the force of the blood pushing against the veins and arteries when it flows throughout the body. The blood pressure of a healthy human being falls and rises constantly throughout the day.

The blood pressure of a human being is measured in two ways:

  • The systolic blood pressure measures the amount of pressure that is in your arteries, during the time your heart is beating and pumping blood.
  • The diastolic blood pressure measures the amount of pressure that is in your arteries, during the time your heart is resting in between the action of your heartbeats.

You may now wonder what is the normal measurement of the blood pressure of a normal and healthy human being. A normal measurement of the blood pressure of a normal and healthy human being is less than 120/80 mmHg.

High Blood Pressure Symptoms

What is High Blood Pressure?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension is the pressure of the blood pulsing through your arteries and is higher than usual. The high blood pressure in your body puts an excessive amount of pressure on your arteries. A lot of times, hypertension or high blood pressure is associated with a lot of several life-threatening medical conditions, including cardiac problems.

Now, let us take a look at the high blood pressure symptoms.

What are the Symptoms of High Blood Pressure?

Hypertension or high blood pressure symptoms, in a lot of cases, may also overlap with the symptoms of some other bodily issues that one might be experiencing. A lot of times, the only way to find out whether you have high blood pressure symptoms or not is by measuring your blood pressure.

However, symptoms of the severe level of hypertension may include symptoms like flushing, blood spots in the eyes or dizziness, etc. If you feel any of these symptoms, you must immediately get your blood pressure checked. If it is not blood pressure, these symptoms may indicate some other type of disorder in the body.

Factors that can lead to High Blood Pressure

There are some factors that may contribute to the probability of your body developing high blood pressure symptoms and may lead to eventually hypertension.

These factors are as follows:

  • Previously diagnosed chronic medical conditions
  • Use of drugs
  • Consumption of alcohol
  • Habit of smoking
  • Obesity
  • Genes
  • Living a sedentary lifestyle
  • Living in a stressful environment or always being stressed

These factors may lead to some serious complications and may also sometimes lead to the death of a patient. It is extremely important for one to maintain physical health as well as mental health. You need to take some steps to prevent high blood pressure symptoms and keep your body healthy.

How Do I Prevent High Blood Pressure Symptoms?

Healthy lifestyle changes are something that can extensively help you make your body stronger and healthier.

growth of organic food industry

Some of the following tips and steps can be taken in order to prevent high blood pressure symptoms:

  • Developing a healthy lifestyle
  • Increasing physical activity
  • Managing your body weight and tackling obesity
  • Getting rid of habits like smoking and alcohol consumption
  • Living in a stress-free environment

10 Best Lumbar Support Office Chairs

The modern world has captivated humans to sit in front of their computers and work like a machine. Endless hours are spent in the sitting position, which tends to be extremely harmful to the back. On the other hand, if we are not working, we are either driving, watching Netflix for straight 5 hours or are indulged in gaming. No matter what we are doing, we are spending a lot of time in the sitting position.

This sheer amount of time that is being spent in this position can do a lot to our bodies, without us realizing it. Majority of people suffer from intense back pain, and they all know that this pain is nothing close to a joke. If it gets severe with time (which it does), your back makes it impossible for you to attend to several crucial tasks.

But, if you are serious about your back pain and want to save your body from harm, then you can invest in good lumbar support chairs. You can either get lumbar support cushions separately or just buy a chair that comes with one. For entrepreneurs who are setting up their offices; please make sure that you are providing your employees with high-quality chairs as they will be working for you. Slight discomfort in their back can result in several issues.

A good chair is the only thing that can save you from trouble. Here, in this piece of article, we have summed up the top 10 best lumbar support office chairs that you can invest in. These are indisputably the best and most comfortable office chairs to rely upon. Let’s get right into them, shall we?

1. LANGRIA Mesh Office Chair, Ergonomic Mid-Back Design, Swivel Computer Chair

LANGRIA Mesh ergonomic office chair steals the show with its excellence and comfort and tops the list of the best lumbar support chairs. It comes with the lumbar support, so you do not need to invest in a cushion for this purpose. The pre-installed lumbar support ensures unusual posture and great alignment for the spine too. It comes in a very decent black colour and style which is perfect for all kinds of offices.

Another fantastic feature about this chair is that its mesh back is exceptionally breathable. The padded seat is also very comfortable, which makes it pain-free to sit on it for hours. The 360-degree swivel allows you to be flexible, and its stability is outclassed too. With all the right features and the excellence of comfort it offers; LANGRIA is the top best lumbar support chair to buy.

2. Furmax Mid Back Lumbar Office Chair

Furmax brings you a tremendous lumbar office chair within $100, and this is by far, the most affordable option that Furmax has to offer to its clients. There are several reasons why it is among the top best chairs. First, it allows you to adjust the height of your chair so that your feet can be on the ground firmly. The backrest is made up of mesh and is breathable.

Best of all, the lumbar support is outstanding. It supports your lower back so amazingly that sitting for hours becomes as easy as pie. Furthermore, the quality is incredible according to the price tag.

3. Jumei Adjustable High Back Mesh Executive Desk Chair

Jumei’s high back mesh executive chair hits the top list because it offers three best features. The lumbar support, height adjustment and overall adjustability options are the winners. The lumbar support is excellent as it gives a very natural curve to your spine. The mesh is extremely breathable, and you will thank Jumei for creating this during summers. You can also flip the armrests as they are not fixed. This is a really cool feature as most of the chairs don’t allow you to do this.

4. BestOffice Ergonomic Home Office Chair

This chair is not a mesh chair but guys, this is so comfortable that it has to be one of the best ones. The backrest and the seat are composed of PU leather, which is incredibly soft and profoundly satisfying. The lumbar support ensures extra comfort and the double pillow headrest is undoubtedly the scene-stealer here. It is a swivel chair which makes it perfect for home and office both as you can manage several tasks with ease.

5. Homall Gaming Ergonomic Chair

Being a gamer, you can understand the amount of pain your upper and lower back have to go through. However, Homall releases this and has one of the best lumbar support chairs for all gamers. The design is super cool, and the comfort level is also impeccable. From comfortable padding to the significant lower back lumbar support; everything is top-notch in this chair. You won’t regret buying this one at all as it is within 100 USD.

6. AmazonBasics High-Back Executive Swivel Chair

There is nothing special about the design of the chair, but it has been designed to “feel” comfortable and enjoyable. It is simple in outlook but offers you great support at the back and for the arms too, which makes it easier to sit for longer hours. It has a good backrest and comes with the height adjustment feature also. However, this chair does not come with lumbar support. You will have to invest in one. But it is incredibly comfortable. So you can buy it without a doubt.

7. Herman Miller Embody Chair

Herman Miller Embody Chair has been a hit for the office goers, and people have adored it a lot too. It comes with lumbar support, which provides incredible alignment to the spine. This also reduces the pressure on the lower back, making it easier to sit for longer hours. The entire material of the chair is exceptionally breathable, which makes it comfortable during the summers. The manufacturers promise that it stimulates proper oxygen and blood flow throughout the body as well.

8. Flash Furniture Executive Swivel Chair

This is another incredible choice to make if you are buying lumbar support office chair under 100USD. Flash Furniture is offering all the necessary and amazing features that anyone would need in a budget-friendly chair. It has lumbar support which provides spine alignment and pressure-free seating. The adjustable headrest makes the chair even more amazing. This is a mesh chair, and it is highly breathable. It allows for excellent ventilation and promotes proper blood flow as well.

9. Wang Grey Swivel Chair

Speaking of style, this is definitely a show stopper. It sets an example of uniqueness as it breaks through the regular mesh and leather outlook. DJ. Wang comes with an ergonomic fabric which feels great and is very breathable too. Above all, it looks super stylish also. The lumbar support and backrest ensure fantastic comfort and ease of sitting for long hours. The chair is built up of a durable metal base and is stable. It doesn’t have a great height, but it is excellent for average height people.

 

10. ProErgo Ergonomic Kneeling Chair

If you have troubles with the regular styled office chairs, then this is a quick fix to this. ProErgo kneeling chair is undoubtedly different from regular chairs but does offer the same level of comfort. However, as this chair is without the backrest, it doesn’t have lumbar support. But, this is the magic of this chair. It is designed perfectly to ensure that it gives you the perfect posture just like lumbar support does. So you don’t feel the absence of it at all. Your spine and your lower back are free of pressure, and it offers excellent seating posture too. If you are looking for variety, then this is an excellent choice to make.

Why is Lumbar Support Important?

Ergonomic chairs are the ones that come with lumbar support, most often. They are critical these days as we have to spend long hours in sitting posture. If our position is not right, we will end up with severe upper and lower back issues, which will reduce our productivity with time. Therefore, ergonomic chairs or lumbar support office chairs are the saviours. They are innovated to provide fantastic support to the back and ensure perfect spine alignment too. This decreases the pressure on the lower back as well.

Conclusion

We have summed up some of the best ten lumbar support office chairs for you all. These are budget-friendly and won’t cost you a fortune. Keeping your health as your top priority, make sure that you invest in an excellent lumbar support office chair. We all know the cost that we might have to pay at the end of some years if we don’t have a good sitting posture.

Lumbar support offers you spine alignment, pressure-free seating and perfect posture. These three elements are the key to a healthier back and spine. Invest in any of the chairs mentioned above, and you won’t regret it at all. They are all worth every dime you spend on them and are incredibly budget-friendly too.

How to Become a Future Leader

Employees no longer stay in the same job for decades, which is an issue for most businesses. Therefore, firms constantly have to employ people from the outside to fill management roles. Instead of quitting, an opportunity in the current market is to become an employee of value and set yourself for leadership positions.

Innovative businesses will look for and analyze potential leaders to fill senior roles. You can improve your chances of becoming a future leader by focusing on yourself:

How to Become a Future Leader

Subject Matter Expert

You must be an expert on a specific area if you want recognition at work and gain attention. If you are an expert on an essential topic for the organization, people will come knocking at your door, and your value will increase.

You’ll be offered chances to interact with other teams, and you’ll be able to ask for promotions because of the power you’ll hold.

For example: if you are looking to progress to a leadership position in a political field, the American Leader would be a good source of information for you. It would provide you with the necessary details about current issues in the economy rather than just basic headlines.

Be Self-Aware

Make a point of highlighting and concentrating on your strengths. Incorporate them into your daily routine in whatever manner you can. Are you able to admit to any flaws you may have? Can you give specific examples of how you dealt with them and why you believe it helped you achieve something you’re proud of now?

Even routine and human, it is OK to make mistakes as long as you admit them quickly and honestly and give solutions.

You will be perceived as someone who does not accept responsibility for your actions if you do not acknowledge making a mistake or shift the blame off yourself.

Take On Responsibilities Outside Your Job Description

You won’t be able to advance to a leadership role in your career if all you do is what’s written in the profile. It would help if you constantly pushed yourself to take on new responsibilities outside your regular job responsibilities.

Managers are very eager to support an employee who wishes to take advantage of a vast new opportunity at work. You will advance your career, enhance your abilities, and be better placed for leadership opportunities if you take on extra assignments.

The Ability to Communicate and Network at All Levels

Across all levels, the skill to communicate and network is crucial. One of the essential attributes of a leader is their ability to network and communicate effectively. You must be able to demonstrate how you have built, nurtured, and used your network for the benefit of yourself and others.

how to treat employees

Using networks for personal and professional purposes outside your day-to-day employment demonstrates your ability to form and retain new relationships, which is critical for success in all areas. Communicating yourself adequately and your strategic ideas to others can help you advance in your leadership career. Create a clear picture of what you want to receive from a networking relationship and strive toward it.

Conclusion

Academics and consultants have attempted to propose new approaches to leadership throughout history, but the time for adhering to and following a single style or ‘way of operating’ has passed.

Remember, great leaders are not born overnight — nor should they be! Your experience and talent will come together to create the knowledge you need to succeed.

Leaders must reconcile messy internal tensions, work with a vision that respects the various interrelated systems they operate and tune in to a vital and personal mission to fulfill genuine potential.