Nov
16
An increasing number of homeowners are choosing to incorporate green improvements as they remodel or update their homes. Of course, taking steps to reduce one’s carbon footprint is commendable, but families are not choosing to go green just because it is beneficial to the environment. What is truly driving the green movement in the average consumer market is the fact that going green saves money. Green homes are more energy efficient than traditional homes. They cost less to heat and cool than other homes. Water use is reduced, and there are additional cost-saving benefits associated with green homes. For that reason, many homeowners are choosing to make their homes more eco-friendly. Below are five ways the average homeowner can convert his home to a green home.
New Appliances
Energy Star appliances are an excellent way to reduce power consumption and save money. These green appliances are sometimes a bit more expensive than traditional appliances, but this extra cost is quickly recouped. Lower energy consumption means lower power bills. Virtually any appliance from washing machine to refrigerators has an Energy Star version.
Insulation
Keeping conditioned air inside a home is essential to reducing a home’s carbon footprint. Using green insulation techniques as well as installing new insulated windows and sealing any cracks around the door frames will prevent heated or cooled air from being lost. Most energy waste within a home comes from improper insulation.
Natural Light
Taking advantage of natural light is not only a green way to save money, it also improves the overall aesthetic of the home. Large floor to ceiling windows and skylights open the home up, and make smaller homes appear much larger. Allowing natural light into the home allows homeowners to grow their own vegetables and herbs in their kitchen. There is nothing greener than growing your own food.
Water Conservation
Water conservation is an often-overlooked aspect of green home remodeling, but potable water shortages are a pressing concern for many environmentalists. Low flow toilets and appliances are an excellent way to conserve water and lower the water utility bill. Installing an on demand water heater ensures that only water that is needed is heated. There is no need for a water tank. The water is heated as it flows through the pipe.
The Roof
Most people think of utilizing their roofs to install solar panels, but there are other green options such as a green roof or a cool roof.
Solar panels are an excellent way to supplement a home’s overall energy consumption. In recent years, solar panel installation has become increasingly affordable for the average homeowner. The increases in solar technology have made solar panels remarkably easy to install and maintain.
A cool roof is in many ways the opposite of solar roof. It is designed to reflect light rather than absorb light. These light colored roofs are ideal for tropical and subtropical climates where houses are cooled more than heated. They are not necessarily suitable for colder climates.
Green roofs or planted roofs are a new and innovative way to reduce a home’s overall heat signature and take advantage of a previously unused space. Roofs are planted with seed. This green area on top of the house provides an extra layer of insulation. Many people take the opportunity to use their roofs as a garden area by planting flowers, herbs, and other easy to maintain plants.
Converting a home to utilize green techniques is not an all or nothing proposition. Homeowners can incorporate as many or as few green energy saving techniques as they like. Whether a homeowner wishes to do a full green remodel or simply buy new appliances, the choice is theirs alone. Any effort to make a home more environmentally friendly and energy efficient is an improvement.
Visit Earthsavers for more green and recycling tips or Nashville recycling pickup services.
Oct
26
With so many Americans throwing away large amounts of their old clothing each year, which, inevitably, wind up in landfills, the environmental disasters continue to exist. This can be so easily avoided, as well as, economically sound with just using a little creativity. Since textiles are easy to recycle and reuse, instead of trashing the old clothes, try salvaging them using these ideas:
• Hand-Me-Downs
If you have younger children, the most practical use of the hand-me-downs would be, obviously, to hand it down. However, if you do not, there are online services dedicated to trading hand-me-downs, or for just donating clothing to the cause. It is a great way to clean up a child’s closet and save on clothing.
• Donate
This is a good way to ensure reuse. If you have no family members to benefit from your old clothes, there are plenty of charities that would be happy to receive them. Also, if you choose this route, be sure to itemize each piece, or at least take pictures, and get receipts so you can write off the donation on your taxes.
• Sell
If you have the time, energy and patience, have a yard sale. This way you could focus your efforts on your community. Invite some friends and/or neighbors to share in the sale, or include church groups and clubs. Bigger and better organized yard sales usually attract more potential customers, and keeps people from stopping and starting their cars repeatedly.
Sell to the highest bidder. Earn a little cash for yourself by selling your items on consignment in local thrift stores, or on an internet auction site. There are quite a few reputable sites on the internet.
• Turn Old Clothes into New Clothes
With a little ingenuity and cosmetic alterations, an old dress can be transformed into a new one. An embroidered motif, dash of paint, or modified hemline can breathe new life into an otherwise drab piece of clothing. Clothing that is beyond rescue can be made into baby clothes. A man’s pair of jeans can usually provide enough material for a boy’s pair. Turn a skirt into a cute little blouse for a little girl.
• Doll Clothes
Kid’s old clothes are great for making doll clothes. Let the child design and create the clothes. It will help stimulate the child’s creativity and provide productive time spent. Bears make good models for clothing as well.
• Craft Projects
There are so many kinds of craft projects awaiting your creative mind. Cut small pieces of old clothes up to 4” x 4” and sew together to make quilts. Cut smaller pieces for stuffing throw pillows. Make bedding for pets. Laundry bags can be made from old dresses by closing the bottom with Velcro or buttons and storing the laundry through the neck of the dress. Fashion accessories, such as wallets or fashionable bags, can be transformed from old t-shirts and jeans. Children can learn how to sew with the fabric of old clothing. You and your child can make stuffed animals or wall-hanging decorations together.
• Composting
One hundred percent cotton fabric is compost-friendly. Cut up t-shirts, underwear, old jeans (no spandex), and bury them in the pile. Just be sure to remove any elastic waistbands.
• Cleaning Rags
Clothes that are unworthy of any of the above options still have a purpose. Put them in a rag pile. Instead of using tons of paper towels for cleaning, reach for one of your rags.
Recycling is one of the ways we can remain sustainable, particularly in today’s age of high consumption. It not only provides for people, but also reserves our resources for future utilization.
Remember – whenever you have something you would normally throw away – consider this: Instead of asking, “Is this something I can reuse,” the question should be “how can I reuse it?”
Check back for more Nashville recycling tips.
Oct
7
For much of the modern world, the United States is a leader in politics, economics, and in buying power, but when it comes to the environment, how eco-friendly is the United States? While “organic,” “green,” or “environmentally friendly” products seem to be everywhere today, do they really represent an eco-friendly stance by the United States? To determine how eco-friendly the United States is, it is important to view how consumers and federal agencies implement green processes in day-to-day affairs.
For many consumers, living green has come to mean more than just buying products labeled “biodegradable” or “green.” In fact, a huge share of consumer power has shifted toward buying environmentally friendly and responsible products. A study by Green Seal and EnviroMedia Social Marketing reveals that 4 out of 5 consumers are buying green products and services – even with the downturn in the economy. There were many cited reasons for their buying decisions, with only 9 percent stating green advertising as their main influence. Twenty-one percent cited product reputation, 19% word of mouth, and 15% stated brand loyalty as their reason for buying. An excellent turn around it would seem. But counter these study results with the report by TerraChoice, which found 95 percent of 5,000 items in US stores were guilty of “green washing” – essentially making false claims about the ecological benefit of their products. So while consumers seem willing and able to commit significant funds toward truly green products, it seems the market is unwilling or unable to produce them, depending on false claims and unverified data to brand their products “green.” A large part of the problem is the voluntary guidelines imposed by federal regulators, which are 20 years old and offer little oversight as to how it’s being translated by producers or consumers.
With so much of the consumer market in turmoil over truth in green marketing, how do federal agencies fare in eco-friendly habits? The Obama Administration has made green initiatives and action a big part of their platform and while some federal buildings have received green makeovers, a study by Deloitte reveals that federal agencies have a long way to go because of a lack of resources and leadership in implementing wide-ranging, comprehensive green changes and updates. While green measures often save money over the long-term, they do require an upfront cost for greener technologies and converting existing programs and plans to eco-friendly standards. And in the midst of a debt crisis that has led to budget cuts nationwide, many agencies simply don’t have any more stones to squeeze. But even so, the Obama Administration continues to delegate green expectations across the board, including a recent memorandum stating by the end of 2015, all vehicles purchased for the federal fleet must be hybrids or powered by electric, compressed natural gas, or biofuel. But when federal agencies lack a cohesive baseline or performance measures, it is difficult to see how they will be able to implement the many green initiatives proposed by the White House.
In determining how eco-friendly the United States really is, it is astonishing to see how much of the world really isn’t. While living green and conservation efforts seem to be at the forefront of many people’s minds, the odds seem stacked against consumers and federal agencies in the deceptive marketing practices used to sell green products and a generally inability to produce the funds needed to implement the practices. It seems heavy reform is needed to regulate the standards for which products can be called green and a comprehensive response from the White House before the United States can be called a leader in eco-friendly and green initiatives.
Eager to learn more about how you can do your part? Visit Nashville Recycling company, Earthsavers on Facebook or Online at http://www.earthsavers.org
Sep
14
Long before the Green Movement, Americans have been encouraged to reduce, reuse, and recycle. Recycling bins began to make their appearance throughout schools, offices, and homes decades ago. Teacher encouraged young children to separate and recycle their trash as well as color between the lines, but has all this education and encouragement paid off in the long run? Are things better today than they were in years past? Are Americans recycling more? Have all these initiatives and education programs really made a difference?
The answer is most assuredly, yes, but it is a qualified yes. Americans are recycling more than they were in years past. In 1980, only 10% of all municipal garbage was recycled. In 2005, that rate was up to 32% according to the US General Accounting Office. Unfortunately, the amount of municipal garbage has grown by 60%. That is almost 246 million tons of garbage produced every year. While a larger percentage of America’s trash is being recycled, Americans are negating those gains by producing even more trash. This news might be disheartening to some, but it is important to remain positive and look for the silver lining. Imagine the amount of trash that would make it into the landfills if Americans were not recycling at the rate they are. There is certainly cause for good cheer among the pro recycling crowd.
• 63.4% of all paper products in the United States were recycled in 2009. This number includes soiled paper products that cannot be recycled. Subtracting materials that are unable to be recycled would obviously increase the rate.
• 99% of all lead acid batteries are being recovered and recycled. This is outstanding!
• 48.2% of all metal cans were recycled in 2008
• In total over 7 million tons of metal was recycled in 2008. This alone, in terms of carbon monoxide reduction, is the equivalent of removing over 4.5 million cars from the road for a period of one year.
These are just a few encouraging statistics, but now is not the time for Americans to rest on their laurels. There is still much to be done. Two major issues have become apparent in recent years. Changes in consumer habits have created new issues within American’s landfills that did not exist 30 years ago.
Bottled water was virtually unheard of in the 1980s, but now, bottled water has its own section in every grocery and convenience store. The demand for bottled water more than doubled between the years of 1997 and 2007. In 2007, the average American consumed 29.3 gallons of bottled water. The growing demand for bottled water has lead to an increased demand for PET plastics. Plastics have always lagged behind paper in terms of amount recycled. Some studies show that over 41% of the plastics found in landfills come from bottled water. These plastics will outlast virtually every other material found in a landfill. Plastics that are not exposed to direct sunlight can take thousands of years to decompose.
The other area of concern stems from Americans fascination with the latest and greatest technological toy. Electronics are rarely recycled. In 2007, an estimated 2.25 million tons of electronic devices fell into disused. Of those 2.25 million tons, 82 percent found their way into a landfill. Only ten percent of cell phones are ever recycled. Electronic devices when recycled can render many hard to find minerals such as gold, copper, silver, and palladium. It is sad that all these valuable resources are going to waste in a landfill. If Americans insist on continuing this pattern of consumption regarding electronics, they must realize that these items can and should be recycled.
Recycling has made marked gains with the United States over the past thirty years, but there is still the opportunity for growth. Americans can do better. The environmental problems that face America today are primarily those of consumption. The reduce part of the three Rs is just as important as reuse and recycle. Given past history, Americans, once properly educated, will rise to the challenge.
Visit Earthsavers for more information on residential and commercial recycling in Nashville and across Middle Tennessee.
Aug
15
Batteries are commonplace in the modern world, powering toys, watches, cell phones, laptop computers, automobiles, and many other devices. As with other disposable items, however, many people don’t stop to think about what happens to the battery after it’s thrown away. All batteries use chemical reactions to provide electricity, but there are many different formulas that can be used, each of which lends itself best to a different purpose. Some of these formulas contain hazardous chemicals that should not be disposed of in a landfill or incinerator with regular garbage. Improper disposal can result in contamination of the soil, water or air with toxic materials. It doesn’t take long to see why recycling batteries is very important.
While the acidic or alkaline components of batteries may be the first thing that comes to mind when one thinks on their hazards, the most serious threat to health and environment after the batteries are discarded comes from the heavy metals that some formulas contain, such as lead, nickel, and cadmium, which can leach into the ground if the batteries are sent to a landfill, resulting in long-term poisoning of the site’s soil with compounds that are seriously detrimental to the health of humans and other life. If incinerated, the batteries may create toxic fumes or ash that are likewise problematic.
Lead, in particular, is currently commonplace in automotive batteries and is, in any amount, harmful to human beings, especially children. Fortunately, lead-acid batteries are also the most commonly recycled type of battery, allowing the lead and other components to be reclaimed for further use and helping to keep poisonous lead out of landfills. Soil contaminated with lead is dangerous to play or work in and can produce contaminated crops if used for farming or gardening, so preventing this material from leaching into the ground is an important long-term concern for future generations. Some batteries may also contain mercury, another well known toxic metal. This is no longer as serious a concern as mercury-based batteries have been banned in many countries and manufacturers have sought alternate formulas to do away with mercury content, but it should be kept in mind since mercury is very dangerous if incinerated or allowed to leach into soil and groundwater.
Nickel and cadmium are often used together in rechargeable batteries; nickel is potentially harmful but cadmium is the more dangerous of the two substances; it is carcinogenic and is especially harmful to the kidneys and respiratory system. Rechargeable batteries are recyclable at the end of their lifespan, but participation in recycling programs for this type of battery still lags far behind lead-acid battery recycling. Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries lack cadmium and are therefore safer but are still potentially toxic due to the nickel and electrolyte they contain.
Modern alkaline batteries that do not have mercury added to them are less dangerous and generally not categorized as hazardous waste, although this has changed in some places. While they do not contain heavy metals such as lead or cadmium, the chemicals inside them can still be harmful if allowed to escape. Unfortunately, there is little reclaimable material for recycling this type of battery; the steel casings are the primary useful product left over in the spent cells. Due to these factors, recycling facilities for alkaline batteries are less prevalent than those for lead-acid and rechargeable ones.
Lead-acid batteries and rechargeable batteries should always be recycled for safer disposal and reclamation of any useful component materials, as these types generally pose a greater threat to health and environment. In some areas, recycling other battery types is also prudent. Recycling hazardous batteries not only allows part of their resources to be reclaimed, it also helps keep toxic chemicals out of landfills where they could poison the soil and groundwater. There is still a ways to go to reduce the amount of toxins let loose in the environment from discarded batteries, but recycling initiatives have been a step in the right direction.
More Information about Dangerous Waste Contaminants in Soil
Other resources about Recycling.
Aug
8
The majority of our products use plastic, but there are several different types of plastic. The recycling codes found on plastic are important when separating plastic for recycling. The recycling codes are used to label plastic by the type of resin made to produce the plastic of these goods and is symbolized by a number surrounded by arrows. The symbols on plastic are numbered 1-7, and each represents a different category of plastic. These numbers can normally be found at the bottom of an item.
The following gives a breakdown of each of the seven different recycling codes:
Number 1 plastics are also referred to as PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate) plastics. They are commonly found in single-use bottled beverages, peanut butter containers, sports drinks, beer, jelly, salad dressing containers and food trays for ovens. Number 1 plastics are used most often because they are inexpensive, lightweight and easy to recycle. They are part of most curbside recycling programs. This type of plastic is often recycled into fiber for carpet, tote bags, fleece jackets and comforter fill. It is also used to make containers for different foods and beverages.
Number 2 plastics are HDPE (high density polyethylene). This type of plastic is used for items like milk jugs, household cleaner bottles, shampoo bottles, motor oil bottles, butter tubs, cereal box liners and some trash and shopping bags. Number 2 plastic is versatile and is often used for packaging. This type of plastic is picked up through most curbside recycling programs, although some only allow containers with necks. Some common uses for number 2 recycled plastic are pens, detergent bottles, shampoo bottles, outdoor decking, buckets, pipe, floor tile, lumber, picnic tables, and fencing.
Number 3 plastics are also labeled V (Vinyl) or PVC. They are commonly used for household cleaning bottles, clear food packaging, shampoo bottles, medical equipment, windows, carpet backing, piping, and siding. Number 3 plastic is tough and weathers well. PVC contains chlorine and can release toxins if used incorrectly. This type of plastic is rarely recycled, but it is accepted by some plastic lumber makers. It can be recycled into paneling, decks, flooring, electrical boxes, traffic cones, speed bumps, mats, mud flaps and cables.
Number 4 plastics represent LDPE (low density polyethylene). They are most often used for squeezable bottles, shopping bags, container lids, toys, clothing, furniture, carpet and tote bags. Number 4 plastic is flexible and can be used in many applications, but it is not often accepted by most curbside recycling programs. Plastic shopping bags can be returned to stores for recycling. This type of plastic is often recycled into shipping envelopes, lumber, floor tile, trash can liners, compost bins and paneling.
Number 5 plastic is also referred to as PP (polypropylene). It is commonly found in syrup bottles, yogurt containers, caps, medicine bottles, straws and ketchup bottles. This type of plastic has a high melting point, so it is often chosen for containers that hold hot liquid. Some curbside programs accept number 5 plastics. It is typically recycled into brooms, signal lights, brushes, ice scrapers, oil funnels, trays, bicycle racks, pallets and rakes.
Number 6 plastics are also labeled PS (polystyrene). This type of plastic is often used for disposable plates and cups, egg cartons, packing peanuts, coat hangers, toys, medical products, CD cases and carry-out containers. Number 6 plastic can be made into foam products commonly known as Styrofoam. It is accepted by some curbside programs, but it is very difficult to recycle. This type of plastic is often recycled into insulation, egg cartons, rulers, light switch plates, and carry-out containers.
Number 7 plastics represent any plastic resin that doesn’t fit into the other plastic categories. It is commonly found in five-gallon water bottles, sunglasses, DVDs, signs, nylon, and computer cases. It is typically not picked up by most curbside programs. It can be recycled into bottles, plastic lumber and some custom-made products.
For more information about recycling in Nashville, visit http://earthsavers.org
Jul
11
Recycled material can be either reclaimed material that can be reused without processing, or it can mean reprocessing one product into another. Today people can find both with greater ease. Through reclamation businesses, web list sites, and manufacturers making more recycled products, people can participate in the reduction of waste material.
Many waste management companies in larger cities have been mandated to include aggressive recycling projects. From curbside recycling pickup to community hazardous waste events, cities are finding that taking these products out of the system is beneficial. The time to landfills reaching capacity is being lengthened. Fewer chemicals are being dumped down drains, disposed of on soil, or mingled with weekly trash.
When trash is brought to the landfill by individuals, many will find different stations in which to separate their waste. Computers and electronics, home appliances, steel and aluminum, and clean green landscaping debris all are being separated for recycling. Some cities are even giving away free mulch to the public or using it on government properties to reduce water use.
Construction companies who do reclamation or demolition work often have companies that will reclaim as much useable building materials from each site as is possible. With the increase in LEED (Leadership in Energy and environmental Design) construction practices, construction sites are required to recycle nearly 100% of their refuse.
Plastics are being recycled into myriad of products useful in the home and in business. Homes will find recycled plastic glasses and dinnerware. Toys, laundry baskets, even carpeting is reclaiming discarded plastic. Storage bins, office equipment and furniture all can be found in the recycled market.
Cardboard is a readily recycled product, often with little environmental impact. Strips of cardboard become a scratch pad for cats, furniture, or a new toy for the kids. Some businesses collect overruns, mistakes, or gently used boxes for resale.
The internet makes one person’s trash into someone’s treasure in a matter of moments. By having localized advertising people can sell or give away just about anything. Bulk-trash pickup days in the city will bring people out with their trucks and trailers to claim the free stuff put out on the curb.
Reducing overall consumption and re-purposing unwanted material and products does have a positive effect on the environment. As more people participate the effects will grow exponentially. When demand for recycled or reclaimed products grows so will the industry to provide the goods.
Visit earthsavers.org for more information about recycling in Nashville.
Jun
11
An average household is similar to many business organizations. You have multiple people working (and living) together to achieve common goals. The end product is a successful and happy home and family life. A sustainable family organization is one that has zero or low impact on the Earth and its resources but can still maintain a happy and satisfying family environment. It is definitely not impossible and most families need only try and get over the initial perceived inconveniences before seeing the true overall benefits.
Food
No family can live without food. The problem is that food creates most of the waste we generate in our homes. After all, where is the main household trashcan usually located? The trick is to never buy packaged food or other products. Groceries can come from the local farmer’s market or other grocery stores and can be purchased in bulk. Items like cheese or coffee can be placed in resalable jars. Fresh fruits and vegetables can be placed in reusable mesh bags which are also great for washing the produce before use. Liquids can also be placed in washable glass containers and all items can be carried in earth friendly reusable bags.
One of the benefits of buying in bulk is that it can save you money as stated here, “According to the Bulk Is Green Council, a trade group representing bulk-food manufacturers, bulk foods like rice, grains, nuts, and dried fruits can cost anywhere from 30 to 96 percent less than their packaged counterparts.” [1]
Another benefit of eating this way is that all foods are fresh. Studies have shown that eating a diet comprised of fresh fruits and vegetables can lead to, “Lower blood pressure; reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and probably some cancers; lower risk of eye and digestive problems; and a mellowing effect on blood sugar that can help keep appetite in check.” [2] Thus these healthier eating habits can save even more money with less trips to the doctor and create a happier family unit.
Waste
The average household of four people produces around 10 to 15 pounds of waste per day. [3] Most of this waste can be avoided, however, with a few simple changes. Households should start by placing all food scraps into a compost bin either residing in the house or in the yard. The compost created can then be used for fertilizing the household garden where families can grow their own local produce to avoid having to purchase everything from the store.
The home can be cleaned with washable and reusable cloths and sponges. Natural cleaning products can also be purchased in bulk and placed in reusable generic spray bottles and containers. By getting off junk mail lists, houses can eliminate all the wasted paper that is delivered directly to homes. Another important waste eliminator is to turn all bills to e-bills and receive and pay them online.
Households should recycle any products that they can’t avoid accumulating in the household. If recycling is not picked up in the neighborhood, many private recycling services such as Nashville recycling service Earthsavers will come direct to your home and pick up everything from electronics to paper waste and take is to the appropriate recycling facility.
Travel
Most family members will need to leave the household at some point during the day. Parents usually have to work and children usually have to go to school. Although new technologies are making it easier to work and actually school from home, American society just isn’t there yet. Plus, most people need a break from the family so it is always good to have an opportunity to get away.
The simplest way to travel sustainably is to just walk or ride a bicycle. An added benefit of these actions is that they also provide exercise and can reduce overall stress leading to health benefits. One study has shown that, “that walking 150 minutes a week can reduce the risk of developing diabetes by nearly 60 percent.” [4] Of course, walking or riding a bike will not always work due to distances needed to be traveled. In these instances, public transportation can usually suffice. Most areas have buses and trains that are already running and are extremely low cost travel options. Another option would be to purchase one of the new electric vehicles such as the Nissan leaf. This type of vehicle provides another benefit due to the fact it can work as a local power storage unit (see Energy below). Of course, no family wants to compromise on their cool factor with a nerdy looking car. Luckily, there are sportier electronic options available such as the Tesla Roadster and the Fisker Karma as shown here.
Energy
According to the US Energy Information Administration, “In 2009, the average annual electricity consumption for a U.S. residential utility customer was 10,896 kWh, an average of 908 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month. Louisiana had the highest annual consumption at 15,276 kWh and Maine the lowest at 6,252 kWh.” [5] Most houses receive this power by hooking up to the local power line and receiving energy from the central grid. The problem is that there is a loss of power through the transportation process in power lines. Another problem is that power must be continually generated due to the fact it can’t be stored by homes. A better system for a house would be to get power from more local renewable sources and store that power onsite through a system of batteries or give that power back to the main power grid. This would eliminate the costs of purchasing the power, the cost of transporting the power, and the pollution caused from generating the large amounts of power from a regional power plant.
Based on a household’s location, different solutions can be visited to allow the household to generate their own power. The sun currently supplies much of the energy that the Earth could ever need, although we are unable to convert all this energy to usable power. Current conversion rates of the sun’s energy are around 10-15% from photovoltaic power cells. But if you have enough space and sunlight, you can cover most of your energy needs with solar. [6]
Residential wind turbines can be added because when the sun isn’t shining during the day, hopefully it is because wind has blown in the clouds. The smaller turbines based for household use can produce 1,580 kilowatt hours per year of energy. [7]
Of course, the cheapest power is the power that you never use. Most homes can reduce a large portion of their power simply by choosing to practice a few of many potential cost saving activities. Some of these activities may include:
- 1. Wait until you have a full wash load before doing laundry and use cold water
- 2. Turn off electronics when not in use and use a programmable thermostat
- 3. Ensuring your home is properly insulated and sealed
By just looking for ways to eliminate wasted energy and using local renewable sources, households may be able to live completely off the grid and even give power back.
Do you think households can live completely sustainable? What are some ways your household is moving towards greater sustainability.
References:
1. http://www.rodale.com/eating-healthy-foods?page=0%2C1
2. http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/what-should-you-eat/vegetables-and-fruits
3. http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/nonhaz/municipal/index.htm
4. http://www.aarp.org/health/fitness/info-09-2010/martina_easiest_exercise_walking.html
5. http://www.eia.gov/tools/faqs/faq.cfm?id=97&t=3
6. http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/home/question418.htm
7. http://www.peachygreen.com/renewable-energy/honeywells-small-wind-turbines-have-a-big-impact
Jun
8
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Jun
6
Peanut butter, so good but SOOO messy!
I recently just finished off this jar of delicious peanut butter and was about to I toss the empty plastic container into my recycling collection bin. But is it really empty? Isn’t there something I need to do first before sending it off to be remade into possibly another peanut butter jar?
If you guessed – wash it out – then you were right!
The question often comes up about washing out your recycling before placing it into the bin. If you can, it is always best to clean out items before sending them off for recycling collection. The two main reasons being that items containing food and sitting in the recycling bins, and later at the recycling center, can attract bugs and rodents. Nobody wants to be surrounded by ants, bees, and rats when they are trying to do their job! Another reason is that food particles can potentially gum-up recycling machines. You want to ensure you are cleaning out all the impurities in your recycling so that the recycling process can happen as efficiently as possible.
This doesn’t mean you have to use hot water and soap. The whole point of recycling is to eliminate waste – but you don’t want to waste more energy and resources to clean out the recycling. So try to use left over water, or a little cold water direct from the tap, to remove the food items. For a peanut butter jar, one trick is to scrape out as much of the peanut butter as you can first before cleaning with water.
If you are not able to rinse something before hand, don’t worry too much as the recycling plant will catch it. But it is always best for the recycling center if YOU are cleaning up your products beforehand.
Looking for a place to throw all those food scraps? Try recycling your food as well by composting!
Ready to get all your recycling picked-up direct from your home? Contact our Nashville recycling service today!
