Sustainable building techniques have become more common as people have become more environmentally conscious. Not only are homes being designed that have a minimal impact on the environment, but so are schools, hospitals and government buildings. Many architects and designers have joined the green movement with the goal of ensuring that greenhouse gases are reduced while they provide new places to study, heal, work, play and live. Here are 25 blogs at the forefront of sustainable building.
- Green Home Building and Sustainable Architecture
The author of this blog is well-versed in sustainable design, having previously resided in an earthbag and papercrete home that he designed.
- Inhabitat
Newly and uniquely designed green buildings from throughout the world are displayed, including the beautiful Nissam Villas in Singapore.
- Greenversations: Green Building Category
Employees of the EPA blog about their experiences and provide advice related to green building.
- Eco-Business.com
Fittingly, an eco-business site supports sustainable building, providing information about measures being taken to make communities throughout the world greener.
- Sustainable Industries Blog
The founder of Organic Architect offers his knowledge pertaining to everything from design considerations to efficiency improvements.
- Green Building Elements
This blog specializes in the “construction of green buildings, ideas and the design behind them.”
- Campus Green Builder
College students document the efforts of colleges and universities and their students to create eco-friendly campuses.
- Sustainablog
Green building is one of the many aspects of sustainability covered on Sustainablog.
- Building Green Blog
Included on this blog is a list of essential priorities in green building.
- Building My Green Life
The author doesn’t just advocate sustainable building, but also a sustainable life.
- Sustainable Construction Blog
An architectural engineering student created the Sustainable Construction Blog, which discusses new technology and products in the construction industry that assist sustainability.
- Sustainable Cities Blog
This blog discusses the actions that cities across the world are taking to become more sustainable.
- Seattle Daily Journal of Commerce: Building Green Blog
Green building issues in the Pacific Northwest – a notably green area in the US – and beyond are discussed.
- Environmental Building Strategies
Environmental news that affects contractors and residential professionals is featured on this blog.
- GreenBuildingAdvisor.com’s Green Building Blog
Readers can learn how to make their home more sustainable inside and out after perusing through the posts on this site.
- iGreenBuild.com Blog
An excellent source for sustainable building information, addressing everything from sustainable design to environmental issues.
- Green Built Blog
Oodles of information pertaining to green housing are presented on the Green Built Blog, including green design trends and green developments.
- Green Strides
Tips on green dorm living, fencing and eco-friendly garden fountains are offered on this blog.
- GreenBuilder Blog
Experts from the green building movement offer their two cents of news in the industry and various other issues.
- 100k House Blog
A blog that began as a journal of quest to build a $100,000 LEED Platinum home has evolved into a full-fledged source for green building info.
- The Deans of Green
The Deans of Green live up to their name by offering details about green building and living.
Green Building Codes and Laws
Numerous codes and laws must be considered when a sustainable building project is undertaken. What’s more, those laws and codes are always changing. Here are some blogs composed by experts in the field.
- Sustainable Building Codes
The author is a building code regulator who advocates the revision of modern building codes in order to encourage more sustainable construction.
- Green Building Law Update
Issues in the green building industry that hinder progress are brought to light by a construction consultant.
- Green Building Law Blog
Although the blog is run by an attorney based in Baltimore, insight is given into green building law and issues that affect the country.
- Green Building Law
Green Building Law is based in the Pacific Northwest, but it covers a variety of green building legal issues important to people nationwide – not unlike Green Building Law Blog.
Posted in Uncategorized | 
11 Comments » | September 27th, 2010
As with all political issues, environmental concerns are a lot more complicated than cable pundits would have you believe. Sure, it’d be a lot easier if everything could be boiled down to slogans, but real environmental planning is a lot trickier. As a result, the presidents with the best and worst environmental records aren’t necessarily who you’d think they’d be. Some of them have been ardent crusaders for green causes while simultaneously burning through natural resources; some have been lethal or uncaring leaders who nevertheless did more good than almost anyone else when it came to saving the planet. The truth is that thousands of factors have influenced presidents in their decision-making, and none of them has been totally for or against the environment. They’re just trying to maximize their power while making moderately good decisions. Here are those presidents who’ve come out as leaders of their respective packs, ranked in unordered groups based on their general stance. Unhappy with the reults? Be sure to vote next time.
The Best
- Teddy Roosevelt: Even a hundred years after his term ended, Theodore Roosevelt remains one of the most environmentally friendly presidents in history. Despite occupying the White House during years of economic expansion that included heavy mining and logging, Roosevelt was a firm advocate for protecting the beauty of the American landscape. Under powers granted to his office by the Forest Reserve Act, Roosevelt created more than 150 nation forests, as well as five national parks, 18 national monuments, and many more projects devoted to conserving the land. He was responsible for the preservation of almost 230 million acres of land, almost 10 percent of the entire area of the country. He also created a Bureau of Forestry, now the U.S. Forest Service.
- Lyndon Johnson: LBJ enjoyed a tumultuous presidency that ended with a 1968 loss as powerful as his 1964 victory had been. Despite sinking into the quagmire of Vietnam, he also acted with environmental responsibility at home, signing the Wilderness Act of 1964, which created a legal definition for wilderness and protected 9 million acres of land. The law defined wilderness as “an area where the earth and community of life are untrammeled by man, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain.” The act created the National Wilderness Preservation System, which today covers more than 100 million acres of land managed by multiple agencies. He also signed the Urban Mass Transportation Act, which provided matching funds for cities installing rail projects, a fantastic way to encourage the use of public transport and reduce gas and oil use. His wife, Lady Bird Johnson, was also an outspoken advocate for preservation.
- Woodrow Wilson: Although Wilson’s legacy is largely devoted to the League of Nations, he also laid the groundwork for future presidents to stand up for the environmeny by signing some important laws. He created the National Park Service with 1916’s National Park Service Organic Act, which was made to preserve nature for future generations and provide for its enjoyment by everyone. Additionally, he worked on anti-trust laws that set the stage for environmental corporate regulation.
- Jimmy Carter: Taking the presidential reins in a particularly dark time in U.S. history, Jimmy Carter still did his best to champion environmental responsibility. He created the Department of Energy with the goal of conserving energy consumption and addressing the energy crisis, and he made a public address calling on Americans to be responsible energy consumers. He also signed the Soil and Water Conservation Act, designed to prepare plans for conservation on private lands, and the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act, which regulates coal mining with an eye on environmental impact. He also signed laws dealing with conservation of Antarctic lands and American wilderness, protecting 100 million acres in Alaska.
- Richard Nixon: This sounds counterintuitive, I know, and it’s not as if Richard Nixon was completely on the side of the environment: he dropped enough bombs on North Vietnam to pave it with steel half an inch thick or more. Yet he signed a number of domestic laws that promised safety for the planet. The National Environmental Policy Act required government agencies to evaluate their environmental impact; the Clean Air Act of 1970 called on the Environmental Protection Agency (which Nixon had also created) to enforce regulations to protect people from air pollution and toxins; and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, which targeted water pollution.
The Worst
- Warren G. Harding: Harding took office in 1921 after one of the biggest landslides in history, yet is often remembered as one of the worst presidents for his corrupt Cabinet and appointees. The most infamous of these scandals remains Teapot Dome, in which oil fields on public land were leased to private companies for kickbacks. This is pretty much the opposite of the transparent behavior most voters like in a president, to say nothing of the scary lack of oversight drilling for oil.
- Ulysses S. Grant: Another president saddled with a corrupt administration, Ulysses S. Grant has a mixed environmental record. On one hand, he created Yellowstone National Park, one of the country’s most beloved outdoor areas. However, he also oversaw the General Mining Act of 1872, which set the stage for major mining operations on public lands, none of which were kind to the environment. He was also president during an era when more and more corporations began telling consumers less about the potentially damaging effects their companies and factories had on the planet, a battle we’re still fighting today.
- Dwight Eisenhower: Eisenhower’s environmental record is one made up of missed opportunities more than outright destruction. It was his administration that oversaw the construction of the national highway system, and as a result, lobbies for automotive and oil companies grew stronger while mass-transit supporters grew weaker. The highways were meant to encourage growth and development, but they wound up reinforcing America’s car culture and strengthening its dependence on oil.
- Ronald Reagan: Anyone who says things like “Trees cause more pollution than automobiles do” is probably not going to the staunchest environmentalist. Reagan did good things in office, but saving the planet wasn’t one of them. His appointees worked to reduce the effectiveness of the Clean Air and Clean Water acts, as well as roll back requirements for fuel efficiency established under Jimmy Carter. In another symbolic dig at Carter, Reagan removed the solar panels that had been installed on the White House and never replaced them. He cut EPA budgets and their enforcement program, to boot. Definitely not remembered as a pal to the green cause.
- George W. Bush: George W. Bush was, to say the least, a polarizing figure. But though his foreign policies tend to generate the most heated exchanges, his environmental work is pretty lacking, as well. He backed out of supporting the Kyoto Protocol, which would have required stricter adherence to emissions limits, and his administration also discounted the link between human activity and global warming. He also upset some by supporting propositions to drill in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Yet he also proposed the Clean Skies Act to curtail air pollution. His time in office was contentious, marked by small gains and major concessions.
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments » | September 26th, 2010
LEED Information and Green Building News
These blogs and resources give a general explanation of LEED certification and what it takes to meet the industry’s green standards.
- Real Life LEED.
This blog is a reliable reference for LEED certification process information, as well as professional insights into the industry.
- LEED Certification India.
This blog offers basic information about LEED certification and newsy bits about green building in India.
- DJC Green Building Blog.
This Seattle environmental reporter writes about green building issues and LEED-certified construction.
- Environmental Leader.
Get the latest news on environmental sustainability, energy efficiency and LEED-certified businesses on this daily trade publication.
- Green Building Insider.
Here, you can stay up to date with breaking news about green building initiatives, case studies, technologies, legislation and much more.
- GreenBiz.com.
GreenBiz.com provides green news, resources and learning opportunities for businesses to become more environmentally friendly.
- Jetson Green.
This site focuses on green building, including green materials, LEED buildings and green technology for residential projects.
- CEIL.
Check out the Center for Environmental Innovation and Leadership’s daily blog that focuses on environmental sustainability and green building initiatives.
- LEED.net.
This Web site provides general information about green building and LEED certification.
- LEED Certification.
This blog explains the ins and outs of LEED certification and the steps to becoming a LEED-Accredited Professional.
LEED Education and Exam Preparation
These sites offer competitive LEED education training and exam prep to help you pass your LEED credentialing exam.
- Everblue.
Everblue is the largest LEED/BPI education provider in the world, with numerous exam prep resources and helpful accreditation information.
- Green-Buildings.com.
Get free practice exams for the LEED Green Associate Test, as well as LEED study guides and online training from this helpful site.
- LEED Training.
This site offers industry information about LEED accreditation and green building initiatives that will help you prepare for a LEED exam.
- USGBC: Education & Training.
Here you’ll find the latest LEED education, exam prep and green educator resources from the organization that started it all, the U.S. Green Building Council.
- Green Building Education Services.
This site has several education resources, including practice tests, flash cards and training classes for LEED accreditation.
- Green Ideas Education.
Choose from a number of exam prep materials, online classes and study materials to help you pass the LEED credentialing exam in your first try.
- Green Education Services.
Prepare to pass your LEED credentialing exam with this service’s online LEED webinars, exam prep seminars and their very own LEED Green Associate flashcards iPhone application that you can download.
- Planet Principles.
This site offers customized LEED exam prep with online study plans, progress reports to ensure your goals are met and plenty of practice exams to prepare you for the real deal.
- GreenExcel.
Green Excel offers green course instruction, as well as online practice tests for a variety of LEED accreditation, including LEED Canada, LEED Green Associate and IGBC LEED India.
- GreenStep.
GreenStep offers study guides, sample exams and LEED training workshops to help you understand green building and pass the LEED credentialing exam.
LEED Experts
These LEED experts share their knowledge of green building, sustainable development, as well as their personal interests and environmental concerns.
- Green Home Design Architect.
Check out what green home projects this green architect and LEED Accredited Professional is working on here.
- Green Goddess.
Read the random musings and green building ideas on this green goddess’ blog.
- Consilience: The Blog.
See what this group of green professionals thinks about sustainable development and green building here.
- Green Building Law.
Learn about green building law, including sustainable project financing, land use approvals and contracts from this attorney and LEED Accredited Professional.
- The Green Civil Engineer.
Check out this civil engineer and LEED Accredited Professional’s interesting insights into green building and environmental sustainability.
- Building My Green Life. This architect and LEED Accredited Professional writes about her LEED projects and living a more sustainable life on this blog.
- Ron Jones.
Check out what this mover and shaker of the green building movement has to say about the industry and its many guidelines and standards.
- Sara Gutterman.
Read about sustainability, environmental issues and green building initiatives on the co-founder and CEO of Green Builder Media’s blog.
- USGBC’s International Blog.
See what the biggest names of the Green Building Council have to say about global policy, law and research concerning green building and LEED projects on this international blog.
- Ed Binkley.
See what this green housing designer is currently working on and the challenges he faces in the building process.
LEED Materials and Designs
See what sustainable and cost-effective materials are being used to construct LEED-certified buildings.
- iGreenBuild.
See what these green building bloggers have to say about innovative building materials, green designs and environmental sustainability, here.
- Get Serious.
These bloggers are serious about saving energy and using eco-friendly materials that will help create sustainable, green buildings.
- Pathway Cafe.
This blog focuses on sustainable building materials, such as their LEED-certified building product, Pine Hall Brick, a brick alternative made from sustainable materials that support storm water flow and soil health.
- Green Building Elements.
This blog highlights the materials, design and technology used in today’s green construction projects.
- The Forest Stewardship Council.
This site is home to the world’s only credible forest certification system for wood building products that meet the LEED rating system.
- Global Green USA.
Get the low-down on current green building initiatives and eco-friendly resources on this blog.
- BuildingGreen.
Check out the sustainable green materials being used in today’s most innovative green building projects on this blog.
- Revelle.net.
This site gives you a thorough list of sustainable materials that can be used for green building, as well as tips to save energy at home.
- Sustainable Materials.
See what everyday materials can be reused in green building projects and how it benefits the environment.
- FreeGreen.
Browse the collection of green housing plans and construction details on FreeGreen’s design blog.
LEED and Green Building Forums
Get project ideas and LEED certification information on these green building community forums.
- LEEDuser.
Let LEEDuser guide you during the certification process and implementation strategies, and see what other builders are talking about in the discussion forum.
- Green Building Chronicle.
Green Building Chronicle provides a forum for builders, architects and advocates to share their ideas, concerns and success from green building.
- Green Building Talk.
See what the green building community is talking about on this site’s residential, commercial, design and construction forums.
- TreeHugger Forums.
Join one of the many forums related to LEED construction, green building and environmental sustainability on this site.
- Arkitectum.com .
Join a forum with green designers, architects or planners to discuss the latest news and advancements in architecture.
- Green Building Forum.
Get the latest information on green building projects and design ideas from this professional forum.
- GreenBuildPost.
This green builder forum discusses the latest trends and innovations of green construction and green materials.
- McGraw-Hill Construction Community.
Here you’ll find every type of construction discussion, such as green building projects, virtual design and issues with LEED certification on this forum.
- Green 3D Home.
Join a variety of forums discussing first-time green building, construction materials, green home technology and living a greener life.
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments » | September 20th, 2010
The 2010 Atlantic hurricane season was forecasted to be a busy one, and so far it has lived up to the expectations. Halfway through the season, the number of tropical storms and hurricanes has almost equaled the average totals for an entire season. Fortunately, we have yet to experience a major disaster comparable to some of the past decades most severe storms, which brought billions of dollars of damage, death and devastation to the regions they bombarded. Here are the eight costliest hurricanes of the 2000s.
- Katrina $125 billion (2005)
Hurricane Katrina is by far the most devastating natural disaster in modern US history. The storm itself was massive: it was a category 5 with 175 mph winds in the Gulf, though it weakened to a category 3 as it made landfall enough to cause New Orleans levees to fail, flooding up to 80 percent of the city. A great American town was nearly wiped out, and in the process, 1,833 people were killed. People from across the country and world sat in shock as they viewed the now iconic images of people pleading for help from their rooftops and outside of the Superdome. Often overlooked is the fact that the Mississippi Gulf Coast was decimated by the storm surge as well. Katrina caused us to examine every aspect pertaining to how we should deal with hurricanes.
- Ike $30 billion (2008)
Hurricane Ike was the strongest and most destructive storm of the 2008 Atlantic hurricane season, which is the third costliest in history. The storm made landfall near Galveston as a strong category 2 storm with a massive storm surge, flooding the downtown area and the University of Texas Medical Branch. In Houston, some of the citys most recognizable buildings suffered damage, including Reliant Stadium and downtowns JP Morgan Chase Tower. Parts of the fourth largest city in the country went weeks without power, as the millions who evacuated returned to their homes to find extensive damage caused by wind.
- Ivan $18 billion (2004)
Before hitting the popular tourist destination of Gulf Shores, Alabama, as a category 3 storm, Hurricane Ivan at one point a category 5 storm careened through Grenada, Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Cuba, causing what amounted to billions of dollars in damage. Ivan proved resilient as it destroyed subdivisions in Perdido Key and a section of the Interstate 10 bridge over Escambia Bay. The Southeastern US experienced heavy rain and flooding, including record levels in Georgia.
- Charley $16 billion (2004)
Hurricane Charley snuck up on Florida residents after its sudden shift in direction. Although the storm was quick and small in size, it caused major damage to small towns along the states southwest coast, particularly Arcadia. Hardee and Charlotte Counties endured severe damage, and Central Florida wasnt spared, as trees in Orlando were toppled and millions of residents were without power.
- Rita $16 billion (2005)
Not a month after Katrina terrorized the Gulf Coast, Hurricane Rita threatened the region as it reached category 5 status. Residents of the Houston area, wary of what they had witnessed in New Orleans, heeded requests to evacuate, causing epic logjams on freeways west, northwest and north of the city. The storm made landfall along the Texas/Louisiana border as category 3 with 120 mph windspeed. The vulnerable Louisiana coastline endured more flooding and billions of dollars in damage resulted in the US, though Rita wasnt as costly as anticipated.
- Wilma $14.3 billion (2005)
Hurricane Wilma hit near the same area of Florida that had suffered through Charley a year before, causing heavy wind damage and water damage with the resulting eight-foot storm surge. More than three million customers were without power and other utilities were out of service for several weeks after the storm had passed. Prior to making US landfall as a category 3 storm, Wilma reached category 5 status and set the record as the most powerful hurricane recorded in the Atlantic Basin, meaning its barometric pressure reading was extremely low.
- Frances $11 billion (2004)
The biggest victims of Hurricane Frances economically were Floridas citrus groves, which were almost entirely wiped out after previously suffering damage from Charley. Notably, the Kennedy Space Center took a beating from wind gusts that reached 94 mph, causing more damage than any other hurricane. Additional flooding and tornadoes occurred along the east coast up to the Carolinas, ensuring the storm would have a lasting impact.
- Jeanne $8 billion (2004)
Florida wasnt spared in 2004, as Jeanne was the fourth major hurricane to affect the state in its costliest hurricane season on record. However, given the damage already done by Frances and Charley, its potential for destruction was somewhat minimized, though $8 billion in damage was caused in the areas through which it passed due in part to flash flooding.
Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments » | September 16th, 2010
Climate change remains an issue at the forefront of much of the world’s concerns. But despite the seemingly unified effort to combat it, skeptics argue that the problem is exaggerated, and that humans have very little effect on the climate. Both sides present compelling points, as evidenced by the 50 blogs listed below.
Believers that climate change is a threat
These blogs are composed by people who think global warming, or climate change, must be taken seriously.
- Climate Progress
Climate progress examines climate change news, solutions and the politics that follow.
- Global Warming is Real
The people at Global Warming is Real believe that the actions of today will impact tomorrow.
- Accuweather Global Climate Change Blog
The Global Climate Change blog provides research and commentary from experts on climate change.
- RealClimate
Climate scientists offer in-depth commentary on the latest news pertaining to climate change.
- Project Groundswell
Project Groundswell examines all angles relating to the environment, especially climate change.
- Global Warming Blog
The blog title is self-explanatory – the blog takes a closer look at global warming and its impact on our planet.
- Cal Academy of Sciences- Climate Change Blog
The California Academy of Sciences links information about climate change ranging from serious to lighthearted.
- WWF Climate Blog
The World Wildlife Foundation studies how climate change affects the world’s inhabitants.
- The World Affairs Blog Network’s Climate Change Blog
This blog looks at how the world is dealing with climate change.
- ClimateChange.tv’s Climate Change Blog
The latest updates are provided by ClimateChange.tv, which is devoted to “discussions of global climate change effects.”
- DFID’s Climate Change Blog
Climate change advisors and a policy staff provide insight on how the changing environment is affecting their developing countries.
- EDF’s Climate 411
Climate 411 prides itself on giving “plain-English explanations of climate change science, technology, policy, and news.”
- Dot Earth from the New York Times
Andrew Revkin studies how humans are shaping the world, especially with regard to global warming.
- The Green Grok
Dr. Bill Chameides discusses causes of climate change and possible solutions.
- The Pew Center on Global Climate Change’s Climate Compass
Climate Compass mostly focuses on policy related to climate change.
- Climate Literacy
Mark McCaffrey’s mission is to help people understand the details of climate change and its impact on the world.
- It’s Getting Hot In Here
Students and youth leaders who are committed to stopping global warming gather on It’s Getting Hot In Here.
- Climate Ark
Climate Ark serves as an excellent newsfeed for people who want to stay in-tune with the world climate situation.
- DeSmogBlog
DeSmogBlog is the answer to the global warming skeptics, providing facts about their “misinformation campaigns.”
- Celsias
Although Celcias has become more than just a blog, it still features solutions-oriented opinions.
- TreeHugger
TreeHugger has evolved into a full-fledged site dedicated to issues of global warming and all things green.
- NRDC’s Blog
The Natural Resource Defense Council blogs on climate change and other relevant issues related to the environment.
- Planet Save
Plant Save has an abundance of global warming, environmental and activism news.
- SolveClimate
Daily climate news and analysis are found on SolveClimate.
- Warming Law
Climate change law is discussed and analyzed by experts on the field.
The Skeptics
These blogs are composed by a minority of people who think climate change isn’t quite as serious as many scientists would have you believe.
- Global Warming Hysteria
Global Warming Hysteria is a UK-based blog that attempts to combat the “hysteria” by providing information about climate change.
- Greenie Watch
Australian John Ray cuts through the spin of Greenies.
- Minnesotans for Global Warming
Minnesotans for Global Warming is a Chicken Little-free blog.
- Watts Up With That?
Anthony Watts is a former television meteorologist who specializes in weather measurement and weather presentation technology.
- World Climate Report
World Climate Report provides a well-researched scientific response to claims of global warming.
- Climate Skeptic
Warren Meyer clarifies climate developments from the skeptic’s perspective.
- Climate Science: Roger Pielke Sr.
Pielke responds to new climate change data and reports in the media that he deems inaccurate.
- The Air Vent
The Air Vent exists because “the world needs another opinion.”
- The Reference Frame
Climate change is just one of many issues this conservative physicist from the Czech Republic examines.
- The Science of Doom
The Science of Doom emphasizes that science is not a religion and free inquiry should be encouraged when it comes to matters of climate science.
- ICECAP
The International Climate and Environmental Change Assessment Project strongly believes that natural cycles play a large role in climate change.
- Jo Nova
Jo Nova, a “science communicator,” most notably wrote “The Skeptics Handbook.”
- Warrick Hughes
Hughes takes issue with the Greenhouse Warming Theory, offers alternative explanations for recent warming and provides a climate model validation scorecard.
- C02 Science.
CO2 Science believes the rise in global temperatures has little to do with the rise in CO2.
- Climate Sanity
Tom Moriarty attempts to provide sanity by analyzing data and trends pertaining to climate change, specifically the polar ice caps and sea level change.
- Musings from Chiefo
EM Smith believes “the whole Global Warming thesis is just broken” and supports his claim with this fact-filled blog.
- Climate Audit
Climate Audit sticks to the topic of millennial multiproxy climate studies.
- Junk Science
Founder Steve Milloy has appeared on CNBC’s “Kudlow & Co.” and ABC’s “World News Tonight” among many other relevant news programs.
- Niche Modeling.
David Stockdale holds a PhD in Ecosystem Dynamics and he has been praised for his research techniques.
- No Frakking Consensus
Donna Laframboise, creator of NOconsensus.org, believes the climate change hysteria has gone too far.
- Planet Gore
Planet Gore from the National Review tracks “the news, data, and misinformation that feed the global-warming/climate-change debate.”
- No Tricks Zone
Gosselin believes man’s contribution to climate change pales in comparison to the natural forces at work.
- The Resilient Earth
The authors of the “Resilient Earth” book are now expounding on their views with this blog.
- Climate Research News
Paul Biggs is a former believer in the “man-made CO2 driven climate catastrophe.”
- Global Climate Scam
Global Climate Scam is staunchly opposed to the “alarmist agendas” of believers in manmade global warming.
Posted in Uncategorized | 10 Comments » | September 15th, 2010
Ozone depletion is a very real and very frightening reality on planet Earth. The ozone layer is a protective shield in the stratosphere that protects us from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. During the 1980s, scientists noticed that the ozone was decreasing in Earth’s polar regions. It was later discovered that chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), a popular compound that was used in various products like refrigerants, air-conditioning and cleaning agents, was a major cause in ozone depletion. With every spray of aerosol hairspray and flow of air conditioning, CFCs were emitted into the atmosphere, carried by winds up to the stratosphere and broken down by UV radiation, releasing chlorine atoms that destroyed the ozone layer. Since this discovery, the U.S. and other countries agreed to the Montreal Protocol treaty that has regulated the manufacturing, sale and use of CFCs and it’s alternative, HCFCs. Through collective efforts of developed countries, there has been a significant reduction in ozone depletion, but CFCs and HCFCs are still being used commercially and by developing countries. For your reference, here are 6 ways to burn a hole in the ozone:
- Use Inhalers
A metered dose inhaler (MDI) is a hand-held, pressurized tool used to deliver small doses of medication to the lungs for patients with asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). For every puff of an inhaler, the more CFCs are being emitted into the atmosphere and depleting the ozone layer because MDIs are still made with these compounds. Research is underway to implement alternatives for CFCs in inhalers, but is not available yet.
- Use Document Preservation Sprays
Document preservation sprays will certainly burn a hole in the ozone layer because they still contain CFCs or HCFCs as propellants. In order to regulate the emissions, document preservation sprays may only be used on thick books, books with coated or dense paper and tightly bound documents.
- Use a Fire Extinguisher
If there’s a fire in your office kitchen, school laboratory or local restaurant, a portable fire extinguisher is most often used to put out the fire. What you may not know is that non-residential fire extinguishing equipment, like a portable fire extinguisher, still contains HCFCs that burn a hole in the ozone. However, these extinguishers may be used in non-residential applications only.
- Use Aerosol Hairsprays
While the use of CFCs in aerosol hairsprays has been phased out in developed countries, it is still used in developing countries that have not implemented an alternative compound for aerosols. Today’s aerosol hairsprays contain HFCs, which are thought to be more ozone-friendly, but certainly contribute to global warming.
- Use Wasp and Hornet Sprays
Using wasp and hornet killer sprays is a guaranteed way to burn a hole in the ozone because these aerosol products contain HCFCs to replace CFCs. According to the EPA, wasp and hornet sprays can only be used near high-tension power lines, and the seller must notify customers about these restrictions.
- Use Foam Insulation Products
Foam insulation products are used for appliance, residential and commercial insulation applications, such as refrigerated storage and transport or pipe insulation. Foam insulation products are still made with HCFC blowing agents because its HFC alternative has not been implemented across all nations.
Posted in Uncategorized | 3 Comments » | September 14th, 2010
The recent attempts to rescue 33 trapped miners from the San Jose Mine in Copiapo, Chile have once again brought mining safety concerns to the forefront of our consciousness. Earlier this year, the United States experienced its worst mining disaster in 40 years when 29 miners were killed in Montcoal, West Virginia during the Upper Big Branch Mine explosion. Regardless of whether the site is located in a first world or developing country, mining has always been an extremely dangerous job in which the risk of death is ever-present. Since the beginning of the 20th century, thousands of Americans have been killed in mining accidents. Here are 10 major mining disasters that occurred in the states. The high death tolls are indicative of an era of carelessness and primitive technology.
- Scofield – 1900
Utah’s first great mining disaster, the Scofield Mine disaster, became America’s worst at the time. At least 200 miners were killed as an accumulation of coal dust caused a massive explosion that was said to have thrown a miner standing near the opening of the mine 820 feet. The state cleared the mine operators of blame and the Pleasant Valley Coal Company continued operating for 23 more years.
- Monongah – 1907
The Monongah explosion of West Virginia is the worst mining disaster in American history, resulting in the deaths of 362 miners. The sole survivor was Peter Urban, who suffered the death of his twin brother and died in a cave-in 19 years later. The disaster is said to have been caused by the ignition of methane, which led to the ignition of coal dust. It’s unknown how the methane was ignited, but it has been theorized that a dynamite blast or open lamp may have been to blame.
- Darr – 1907
Fewer than two weeks after the Monongah disaster, the Darr Mine in Pennsylvania exploded, killing 239 miners. Like with the West Virginia explosion, almost every local family was affected, as more than 100 women became widows and hundreds of children became fatherless. An inquiry determined the Pittsburgh Coal Company was not to blame and the exposition occurred when miners carrying flaming lamps entered a closed-off area. But a consensus regarding the cause was never reached between different investigators.
- Cherry – 1909
During the early 20th century child labor laws had yet to be enacted, so it was common for children to work in the mines. The youngest to perish in the Illinois Cherry Coal Mine fire – in which 259 miners were killed – were just 11-years-old. The inferno started during an electrical outage, when a cart filled with hay came to a stop on its tracks beneath an open torch, catching fire and spreading as workers attempted to move it out of danger.
- Stag Canon No. 2 – 1913
The deaths of 263 men and boys were the result of the New Mexico Stag Canon No. 2 disaster, which was caused by an overcharged explosion and dry conditions. Only a handful of miners survived – 14 from an unaffected section and nine who were heroically rescued by an apparatus crew, though two helmet men later died as they were overcome by afterdamp.
- Eccles – 1914
The Eccles Mine disaster is the second worst in West Virginia history. At least 180 miners perished amid an explosion that occurred due to a buildup of flammable gases. Entering and exiting the mine after the explosion was made difficult by the blockage of the lift shaft by carts that were supposed to be sent to the surface.
- Granite Mountain – 1917
Montana’s Granite Mountain Mine disaster ended with at least 167 fatalities after a rapidly spreading fire. Initially, a cable was ignited by an assistant foreman’s lamp, and the fire spread easily because the mine was well-ventilated. The few survivors were able to barricade themselves and clean breathable air away from the fire and smoke. The men who died from asphyxia had time to spare, and a one named JD Moore left heart-wrenching notes to his wife on his time book.
- Castle Gates – 1924
The current ghost town of Castle Gates, Utah is remembered for an ominous reason – a series of explosions in a mine that killed 172 men. The first explosion was set off after a fire boss attempted to relight his lamp, igniting gas and dry coal dust. The second occurred when the survivors attempted the relight their lamps, and the third caused a cave-in.
- Benwood – 1924
Gas accumulation was the cause of West Virginia’s Benwood explosion that killed 119 miners the same year as the Castle Gates disaster. Wheeling Steel Corporation’s mill employed workers from varying European countries, and many of their wives and children were seen gathering around the mine after the disaster, despairing over the possibility of losing their loved-ones.
- Mather -1928
Four years after the Benwood explosion, 195 more West Virginians perished in the Mather Coal Mine explosion. The mine was supposed to be ahead of its time, but faulty wiring was determined to be the cause of the disaster. Thankfully, Benwood was the last major mining disaster in the US in 12 years and no subsequent disaster has resulted in more lives lost.
Posted in Uncategorized | 9 Comments » | September 8th, 2010
Just because you’re going off to college and living in a dorm doesn’t mean you no longer have a carbon footprint. You may not be paying the electricity or water bills, but that shouldn’t stop you from conserving your energy, water and waste. Sure you’ll be living in a room that resembles a jail cell and is probably older than you, but there are several ways to live a stylish and environmentally-conscious college life in the dorms. Here are 10 eco-friendly dorm room tips:
- Plants
What better way to go green than to have actual greenery in your room. Plants can bring a dorm room to life by adding color, natural scents and improving the air quality. Make it easy on yourself and get a low-maintenance plant that doesn’t need daily watering or sunlight to stay alive, such as a snake plant, pothos, English ivy and many others.
- Organic Bedding
Organic bedding has all the aesthetics and soft goodness of regular sheets and comforters, but is free of icky pesticides and irritating chemicals. Organic bedding can be made from natural plants and fibers, like cotton, hemp, soy silk, bamboo and other materials. You can sleep soundly knowing that you’ve gone au naturel and helped the environment.
- Fluorescent Light Bulbs
Fluorescent light bulbs are more environmentally friendly than their incandescent counterparts. Fluorescent bulbs use less energy and last 10 to 15 times longer than the average bulb, while giving off the same soft, warm light that’s perfect for studying under.
- Reusable Water Bottle
Instead of buying a 24 pack of water bottles that will probably end up in the trash can, get a reusable water bottle that is BPA-free, easy to clean and stylish for toting around campus. If your dorm room tap water is less than stellar, use the water fountain or buy a refillable water jug and chill it for an ice cold refresher.
- Surge Protectors
Surge protectors give you the convenience to plug in multiple devices at once, but they also help protect your electronics from voltage spikes. Surge protectors also allow you to control your energy use by simply hitting the off button on the control strip, which turns off all of the appliances when they aren’t being used.
- All-Natural Products
From hand soap, disinfectant to laundry detergent, all-natural cleaning products are a safe and effective alternative to chemical-based cleansers. All-natural cleansers are non-toxic, eco-friendly and safe to breathe in because they’re derived from lemons, vinegar, cornstarch, baking soda and other safe ingredients.
- Combination Appliances
Combination appliances, like a 3-in-1 microwave, refrigerator and freezer, are not only convenient space-savers, but they are also eco-friendly appliances designed to conserve electricity and reduce circuit overloads. Look for Energy Star qualified products to get the most energy efficient appliances.
- Recycling Box
Instead of throwing away that empty Coke bottle or tossing your class notes, collect these goods in a cardboard box or another homemade container, and recycle them on campus or take them to the nearest recycling center. While you’re at it, get your dorm floor to recycle and spread the word around campus.
- Biodegradable Hangers
Perfectly good hangers end up in landfills every day instead of being reused, donated or passed on to friends. If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly hanger, try biodegradable cardboard hangers that can be recycled or bamboo hangers that use reclaimed materials and non-toxic products.
- Get Thrifty
In keeping with your “reduce, reuse and recycle” motto, get your furniture, wall art and clothes from local thrift stores for an original look that’s all you. Shopping at thrift stores is cost-effective and eco-friendly because you are saving tons of money and reusing perfectly good items.
Posted in Uncategorized | 12 Comments » | August 30th, 2010
The Gulf of Mexico oil spill was the world’s largest accidental marine oil spill in history. Approximately 4.9 million barrels of oil were released into the Gulf from April 20th to July 15th, killing thousands of marine animals and severely damaging the Gulf’s fishing and tourism industries. BP is looking at an estimated fine of $5.4 billion or more if negligence led to the spill, but there is still a great deal of explaining and learning to do. While the event is fresh on our minds and deep in our hearts, we should take this horrible catastrophe and learn something positive from it now and forever. Here are the biggest lessons learned from the Gulf oil spill:
- A move to alternative forms of energy is inevitable
Alternative forms of energy are no longer a chic business venture or a catchy political slogan. Alternative forms of energy are an essential part of preventing the environmental devastation caused by the oil spill, and an inevitable consequence of the United States’ dependence on foreign countries to extract a limited resource. The question is not if we will move away from oil, but when, and the sooner the better.
- The economy of the Gulf is fragile
While Hurricane Katrina now seems a distant memory, the Gulf region is still feeling the effects of the devastation caused by the storm. The economy, while substantially rebuilt, is still inherently vulnerable to natural disasters and man-made catastrophes such as the Gulf oil spill. The area is also economically dependent on the oil industry. It’s important for the region to expand its interests, in order to shield itself from further disasters.
- Corporations are convenient scapegoats
It’s hard to remember a corporation that has been hated or vilified more than BP. Much of this anger and distrust is the product of reprehensible conduct and negligent management in normal operation and disaster response; however it can be argued that much of the criticism is undeserved. BP would not be attempting incredible feats of engineering or enjoying enormous profits, without the high demand and consumption of oil by the same Americans who are protesting BP. While BP may be a convenient scapegoat, we should spend less time blaming and more time learning as a whole, so that we can prevent another disaster like this.
- The Government is still poorly prepared to deal with major catastrophes
As with Katrina, the government has been criticized for its delayed response, poor management and lack of preparation concerning the Gulf oil disaster. While it is unreasonable to expect the Government to solve every problem, it’s clear that Americans turn to the Government during catastrophes and the government is often unprepared to deal with such disasters.
- The average American takes a great deal for granted
There was a clear disconnect during the Gulf oil spill. Many Americans expect their lives to be a certain way and have lost the knowledge of how such a lifestyle is attained. During the Gulf oil spill, Americans and, perhaps, the government seemed surprised that BP was attempting to drill in more than a mile of water. Many people fill up their gas tanks and expect gasoline to be there without question. Only when the system is disrupted do Americans actually care where something comes from or how it is created. As a whole, we need to take on more responsibility for our behavior, our consumption and our actions in order to prevent disasters such as the Gulf oil spill. Only when we are aware of the consequences of our way of life will we be able to properly address prevention.
Posted in Uncategorized | 2 Comments » | August 22nd, 2010
Before you throw away that old pair of jeans or toss your plastic bags, consider the amount of crafts you can make out of these recyclable materials. Recycling used materials for crafts is not only kind on your wallet, but also kind to the earth and turns household clutter into art. Here are 15 crafts using recycled materials that you and the whole family can enjoy:
- Milk Carton Bird Feeder
Feed your feathered friends with this recycled milk carton bird feeder that withstands rain, snow and shine.
- Bottle Cap Magnets
Every time you pop a top, save the bottle cap to make decorative magnets for the fridge.
- Recycled Wall Art
Save money on expensive wall art by using old calendar prints, magazine pictures, holiday cards or postcards and placing them inside a used frame to get that store-bought, vintage look for way less.
- T-shirt Pillow
Turn your old t-shirts into fluffy bed pillows with this recyclable craft that will wow your friends.
- Fused Plastic Bag
These ridiculously reusable bags will have you thinking plastic is the new leather.
- Mason Jar Soap Dispenser
Washing your hands has never been cooler than to look down and know you made this lovely soap dispenser with nothing more than a mason jar and a pump.
- Newspaper Letter Holder
Keep your letters, bills and catalogs organized in this ultra-smart newspaper letter holder.
- Tin Candles
You are sure to impress your friends with these chic tea tin candles that make awesome gifts and decorations.
- Record Bowl
If you’re not spinning your records, make bowls out of them with this oh-so cool craft that brings vinyl back.
- Paper Bag Placemat
Go green with these simple paper bag placemats that are both practical and pretty.
- Cereal Box Magazine Holders
Once you finish your Cheerios, turn this box into a handy magazine holder that can be personalized and decorated to your heart’s desire.
- Egg Carton-Ribbon Organizer
Don’t get tied up separating your ribbons. Try this egg carton craft that organizes your ribbons and dispenses them one by one.
- Recycled Wax Crayons
Make your broken crayons whole again with this colorful craft.
- Book Safe
Hide everything from your valuables, jewelry to the remote in this do-it-yourself book safe that is read-iculously decorative.
- Mosaic Tile Trivet or Coasters
Make the most of your broken tiles with this mosaic trivet and coaster masterpiece.
Posted in Uncategorized | 10 Comments » | August 11th, 2010
