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To slow global warming, install white roofs
Such roofs and reflective pavement in the world's 100 largest cities would have a massive cooling effect, according to data released at California's annual Climate Change Research Conference...
Builders have known for decades that white roofs reflect the sun's rays and lower the cost of air conditioning. But now scientists say they have quantified a new benefit: slowing global warming.
If the 100 biggest cities in the world installed white roofs and changed their pavement to more reflective materials -- say, concrete instead of asphalt-based material -- the global cooling effect would be massive, according to data released Tuesday at California's annual Climate Change Research Conference in Sacramento.
Since 2005, the Golden State has required that flat commercial structures have white roofs. Next year, new and retrofitted residential and commercial buildings, with both flat and sloped roofs, will have to install heat-reflecting roofing, as part of an energy-efficient building code...
NOW GET THIS
...According to Hashem Akbari, a physicist with the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, a 1,000-square-foot roof -- the average size on an American home -- offsets 10 metric tons of planet-heating carbon dioxide emissions in the atmosphere if dark-colored shingles or coatings are replaced with white material.
Globally, roofs account for 25% of the surface of most cities, and pavement accounts for about 35%. If all were switched to reflective material in 100 major urban areas, it would offset 44 metric gigatons of greenhouse gases, which have been trapping heat in the atmosphere and altering the climate on a potentially dangerous scale.
That is more than all the countries on Earth emit in a single year. And, with global climate negotiators focused on limiting a rapid increase in emissions, installing cool roofs and pavements would offset more than 10 years of emissions growth, even without slashing industrial pollution.
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Maybe white hats, white hair, white electric cars, white clothes, etc. could help a bit, too. Such roofs and reflective pavement in the world's 100 largest cities would have a massive cooling effect, according to data relea... more -
Google CEO announces Energy Plan
Google CEO Eric Schmidt talks to his peers at the Corporate Eco Forum. He argues the business case for investment in renewables and efficiency and blast the political realm for their failure to address the looming energy crisis. Google CEO Eric Schmidt talks to his peers at the Corporate Eco Forum. He argues the business case for investment in renewables and e... more
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"We would cut electricity consumption 40 percent"
Why we never need to build another polluting power plant.
Coal? Natural gas? Nuke? We can wipe them all off the drawing board by using current energy more efficiently. Are you listening, Washington? Why we never need to build another polluting power plant. ... more -
Should we care when celebrities like Will Ferrell build eco-houses?
It’s hard to watch television or browse the internet these days without hearing regular stories about how celebrities are “going green.” One story recently said Will Ferrell has built a solar-powered environmentally friendly home. Should we care? It’s hard to watch television or browse the internet these days without hearing regular stories about how celebrities are “going green... more
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Sun Lizard climate control roofing saves energy
This is a great concept. Sometimes it seems like my house is specifically designed to be hot in the summer and cold in the winter. This climate control system regulates the temperature in your home keeping it cool and warm when you want it that way. Unlike a central air system, this system produces zero carbon emissions and uses natural processes and sources to regulate your climate. Pretty cool, but I'll bet it's not cheap. This is a great concept. Sometimes it seems like my house is specifically designed to be hot in the summer and cold in the winter. T... more
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Will small cars make SUVs obsolete?
High energy and gasoline costs are undoubtedly having an impact on the Truck and SUV market. According to the Wall Street Journal, “Sales of Ford's SUVs fell 54%, and its formerly top-selling F-series truck line dropped 20%.” I drive a Toyota Yaris which coincidentally are selling so fast, Toyota has increased its Yaris passenger car production by 40,000 units by October 2008. High energy and gasoline costs are undoubtedly having an impact on the Truck and SUV market. According to the Wall Street Journal, “Sa... more
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Food Firms Pledge to Cut Mileage
LONDON, UK -- Companies behind some of the biggest brands on U.K. supermarket shelves have pledged to slash the environmental impact of transporting their goods.
About 40 food and drink companies have signed up to the Food and Drink Federation's (FDF) Environmental Checklist and Clause for Greener Food Transport.
The companies, which include Cadbury Schweppes, Weetabix Ltd and Premier Foods -- the company behind Hovis bread and Branston pickle -- committed to using a 10-point checklist to reduce the number and impact of food miles.
Maximizing vehicle loading, reducing the amount of journeys made without any freight, and using rail and shipping instead of road freight are among the recommendations on the checklist.
The FDF said it will help companies contribute to an industry target to reduce the environmental impact of domestic food transport by 20 percent by 2012, compared to 2002 levels.
Iain Ferguson, FDF president, said: "The companies who have signed up to the Checklist and Clause are the first of what we hope will be many more signatories to this commitment to achieving fewer and friendlier transport miles."
"Protecting the environment and developing sustainable transport systems, especially where distribution is concerned, are very topical issues and especially important for us at the Department for Transport," said Transport Minister Jim Fitzpatrick. LONDON, UK -- Companies behind some of the biggest brands on U.K. supermarket shelves have pledged to slash the environmental impact o... more -
Switchover to Fuel Cell Vehicles Will Cut Emissions, Cost Billions
Fuel cell technologies have the potential to greatly curtail the U.S.'s oil use and carbon dioxide emissions, but extensive public and private investment are necessary to make a significant impact in the coming decades, according to the National Research Council.
The group researched and developed a best case scenario for fuel cell development and deployment in the U.S., publishing it's findings the report "Transitions to Alternative Transportation Technologies: A Focus on Hydrogen." The main barriers to widespread use of fuel cell vehicles, the report concludes, are vehicle price and lack of production and distribution infrastructure.
Even with increased funding and research, the cost of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles won't be competitive with fossil fuel-burning vehicles until 2023. The Council says fuel cell vehicle production could start ramping up in 2015, with about 2 million vehicles maximum on the roads by 2020.
Once the cost barrier comes down, there could be 60 million fuel cell vehicles zipping around by 2035 and 200 million by 2050. The Council takes into account the cost of hydrogen fuel over a vehicle's lifetime in comparing its cost to conventional vehicles.
That best case scenario can only be met with vigorous investment and action. The Council says the government will need to put up $55 billion in funding from 2008-2023, and private industry will need to pump $145 billion into fuel cells during the same period.
Currently, the federal government is running the $1.2 billion Hydrogen Fuel Initiative, which was announced at the 2003 State of the Union Address. On the West Coast, the California Fuel Cell Partnership is working to spread the use of fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen fueling stations. Fuel cell technologies have the potential to greatly curtail the U.S.'s oil use and carbon dioxide emissions, but extensive publi... more -
Pew Center and Toyota Team Up to Research Energy Efficiency Best Practices
The Pew Center on Global Climate Change and Toyota have launched a project to research energy efficiency strategies among top companies to discover, document and disseminate information about corporate best practices that reduce energy use and related greenhouse gas emissions.
The research and communications project, announced July 16, also will address the market and internal challenges companies encounter while attempting to implement energy efficiency strategies, Toyota and the Pew Center said.
The Pew Center is managing the research and communications for the project, which is being funded with a three-year, $1.4 million grant from Toyota.
"Energy efficiency is the simplest, most cost-effective way for companies to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions," said Eileen Claussen, president of the Pew Center on Global Climate Change, in a statement. "This project is designed to give companies the tools to ramp up efficiency efforts and simultaneously address growing concerns about climate change and skyrocketing energy prices."
Patricia Salas Pineda, group vice president of Toyota North America, praised the center's long experience in "engaging the business community in the development of pragmatic solutions to climate change."
"We are pleased to work with them to develop this initiative and educate corporations on the most effective ways to reduce energy use," Pineda said in a statement announcing the project. The Pew Center on Global Climate Change and Toyota have launched a project to research energy efficiency strategies among top companie... more -
Demand for low energy electronics amid high oil prices
These days when customers walk into electronics stores, the first question they ask is how much electricity the fridge, washing machine or laptop computer they are contemplating buying consumes.
With oil at around $145 a barrel and electricity costs jumping, consumers are becoming preoccupied with keeping down their power bills. Electronics makers that develop energy efficient product lines and market them effectively to customers may get an edge in a gloomy global economy.
From washing machines that use steam instead of hot water, to fridges that use low energy compressors, to low power computer screens, electronics firms are furiously developing energy efficient products and heavily promoting lines already on the market that use less electricity than competitors' brands.
A U.S. survey by Forrester Research last year found that green consumers, who agree to pay extra for electronics that use less energy or come from an environmentally friendly maker, are more brand-loyal than average consumers. These days when customers walk into electronics stores, the first question they ask is how much electricity the fridge, washing machin... more -
New green enemies - bulb hoarders
Ahead of the increasingly likely government-enforced ban on old-style tungsten lightbulbs, it seems that certain people are 'panic-buying' the old things in case they're suddenly removed from the shelves... Ahead of the increasingly likely government-enforced ban on old-style tungsten lightbulbs, it seems that certain people are 'pani... more
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Obama’s plan to reduce foreign oil dependence
As Americans spend $41 million in foreign oil an hour and are left broke at the pump, what plan does Obama have to solve this problem?
Oil is destined to be a heated issue in this upcoming presidential election and Barack Obama’s opposition to the gas tax “holiday” has already been a hot topic. Obama has made it clear that national energy policy needs to be taken in a new direction.
“We send a billion dollars to foreign nations every single day and we are melting the polar ice caps in the bargain,” said Obama. “That has to change.”
Here are some of the key elements of Obama’s energy plan:
Fuel Economy Standards
Doubling fuel economy standards within the next 18 years is a priority to Obama. Research in engines and advanced lightweight materials will help meet this goal. He also wants to assist auto makers in increasing fuel economy standards through loan guarantees and tax credits for domestic auto manufacturers.
“We are going to raise fuel efficiency standards on cars because that is the only way that we can actually lower gas prices over the long-term and I know you need that,” said Obama.
Next Generation Biofuels
Obama’s goal is to have two billion gallons of cellulosic ethanol in use by 2013. He plans to use tax incentives, government contracts and cash prizes to help this industry mature and specifically wants to encourage farmer-owned refineries. He would like renewable fuel standards to increase, such that 60 billion gallons of advanced biofuels are in the fuel supply by 2030.
A National Low Carbon Fuel Standard is a mechanism that Obama plans to use that requires fuel suppliers to decrease carbon emissions from fuels by 10% by 2020 and he specifically wants to encourage non-petroleum fuels to reach this target.
“The only way we are going to seriously reduce the price of gas is if we actually start investing in alternative fuels and we raise fuel standards on cars,” said Obama.
Renewable Energy
By 2025, Obama would like 25% of U.S. electricity to be generated from clean, renewable sources including wind, solar and geothermal with a Renewable Portfolio Standard. Obama calls for $150 billion to be invested over 10 years in clean energy and infrastructure to support it. Investment in a national digital electric grid would allow greater amounts of renewable energy to be utilized and make plug-in hybrids more environmentally sound.
“For the sake of our security, our economy, our jobs and our planet, the age of oil must end in our time,” said Obama. As Americans spend $41 million in foreign oil an hour and are left broke at the pump, what plan does Obama have to solve this problem?... more -
Iranian car running 500km on 1litre of gas
Researchers at Isfahan University of Technology have invented a car which consumes only a liter of gas to drive up to 500 kilometers.
“The single-person car is capable of driving at a maximum speed of 75 kilometers per hour,” Alireza Fadaei, supervisor of the manufacturer group announced.
“The car has a 3.5 horsepower carburetor and is equipped with an injection engine,” he added.
“Composite materials with fiber-carbon, which form the body of the car, give it low weight and high strength,” the supervisor of the group claims.
The Iranian car, which is scheduled to be exhibited in France's Low Consuming Exhibit in Nogaro, aims to replace motorcycles. Researchers at Isfahan University of Technology have invented a car which consumes only a liter of gas to drive up to 500 kilometers. ... more -
Wind vs sun: energy showdown!!
I recently came across an interesting NWA news article that examines the differences between solar and wind and concludes that wind energy is actually more efficient than solar energy...for now... I recently came across an interesting NWA news article that examines the differences between solar and wind and concludes that wind en... more
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Trains are coming back in style!
In the future, there will be the return of railroads and I couldn't be happier!
I've already explained in another article that I think it's time that U.S. really starts considering a larger network of high-speed railways because of our current airline problems. I know it's being implemented in California and in Texas but with all the problems lately with air travel from masturbating passengers to too hot fliers, we need a new mode of transportation across the board.
Also, well established high speed rail systems in use today are more environmentally friendly than air or road travel. This is due to lower energy consumption per passenger kilometer, reduced land usage for a given capacity compared to motorways, and displaced usage from more environmentally damaging modes of transport. In fact, I'm sure more study into it could make it even more eco-friendly.
I don't know why Americans think flight is our only mode of transportation. I know it's quicker but the prices are rising and the courtesy you once got on a flight is now diminishing. Flight understandable when going overseas or even across country but we've got find new efficient ways to get around. In the future, there will be the return of railroads and I couldn't be happier! ... more -
The Seegers Family Edifice Venture. (The History and Beginning)
The Seegers Family Edifice Venture is a documentary of a family that is turning an old church camp activities center into their future home. One of their goals is to show practical construction methods that will turn this building into an efficient green dwelling.
The History & Beginning is the first webisode of The Seegers Family Edifice Venture. In this episode you will meet the Seegers family, see us close on the building, learn its history and see the new roof go on. You’ll also get a tour of the building with an explanation of how they plan to renovate it. The Seegers Family Edifice Venture is a documentary of a family that is turning an old church camp activities center into their future... more -
City powers up solar-powered area lighting
Carmanah Technologies is working with the City of Kelowna, British Columbia, to equip the community's parks, paths and other public spaces with solar-powered LED lighting technology. As part of its "Going Green" strategy, Kelowna will install 100 Carmanah EverGEN solar-powered area lights in a citywide deployment of renewable technology.
A Government of Canada grant of $500,000 will help support the outdoor lighting project as part of the government's commitment to help Canadians reduce energy costs, increase energy efficiency, and develop cleaner energy technologies. The government will contribute $480,000 in funding from the Technology Early Actions Measures program and $20,000 of in-kind support from Natural Resources Canada (NRCan).
The solar-powered lights will illuminate green spaces and other public areas to help enhance convenience, security, and visual appeal throughout the city. With no trenching, cabling or permits required, each area light can be installed in minutes at a fraction of the cost of a wired light source, to provide years of trouble-free operation without the scheduled maintenance or monthly utility bills of traditional electric lights.
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This is fantastic. Carmanah Technologies is working with the City of Kelowna, British Columbia, to equip the community's parks, paths and other publ... more -
Beverly Hills Blizzard
Why's it snowing in Beverly Hills? Well, in this Currency pod, Kinga
Philipps discovers that a group of bankers have created this spectacle to
highlight the potential economic implications of bizarre weather patterns
and global warming and how investments are changing as a result.
Produced by: Carrie Pyle & Evan B. Stone Why's it snowing in Beverly Hills? Well, in this Currency pod, Kinga ... more -
LED bulbs the new green lighting
The newly-introduced Pharox bulb from Lemnis Lighting uses only four watts of energy compared to seven watts used by a CFL bulb, and emits 2.69 kg of CO2 compared to 4.70 kg emitted by a CFL bulb. The Pharox bulb contains no mercury so it is entirely recyclable, lasts for 35 years (at 4 hours a day) or 50,000 hours, does not get hot, and emits a soft warm glow./////snip/////If one percent of the earth's population were to replace just two incandescent bulbs to Pharox bulbs each, then we would save about://////- 6.3 billion KWh of energy//////- 100 million tons in CO2 emissions//////- $35 billion in usage/replacement costs.//////end of excerpt.////Imagine that. Buy a bulb, save the world... or at least do something to atone for the damage we have already done to this planet. The newly-introduced Pharox bulb from Lemnis Lighting uses only four watts of energy compared to seven watts used by a CFL bulb, and e... more
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Leading Engineers And Scientists Identify How To Improve Quality Of Life
http://www.engineeringchallenges.org/ And at the top of the list for me: making solar power affordable. It is way past time to stop just talking and take action. We have the capacity and the technology to make solar arrays, photovoltaics, and other types of solar technologies that can be installed on open lands that could generate safe, clean, and affordable power to millions of people around the world. Not to mention the opportunity for new jobs that would bring and the chance to also bring many in third world countries out of poverty. Particularly in Africa which was made for solar power. We must invest in it, demand it, and aggressively work to make governments see that federal loan subsidies for nuclear plants will do nothing to save this planet from the catastrophe that is upon us if we do not take bold action now. All of the other items on their list are also important, especially regarding providing clean water, which can also be done with solar power in third world countries. The solution rises in the sky every morning. Sometimes the solutions really are that simple. http://www.engineeringchallenges.org/ And at the top of the list for me: making solar power affordable. It is way past time to stop ju... more
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Energy Efficiency
