Green Renewable Energy

Green energy refers to the use of power that is not only more efficient than fossil fuel but that is friendly to the environment as well. Green energy is generally defined as energy sources that dont pollute and are renewable.

There are several categories of green energy. They are anaerobic digestion, wind power, geothermal power, hydropower on a small scale, biomass power, solar power and wave power. Waste incineration can even be a source of green energy.

Nuclear power plants claim that they produce green energy as well, though this source is fraught with controversy, as we all know. While nuclear energy may be sustainable, may be considered renewable and does not pollute the atmosphere while it is producing energy, its waste does pollute the biosphere as it is released.

The transport, mining and phases before and after production of nuclear energy does produce and release carbon dioxide and similar destructive greenhouse gases. When we read of green energy, therefore, we rarely see nuclear power included.

Those who support nuclear energy say that nuclear waste is not, in fact, released into our earths biosphere during its normal production cycle. They stress as well that the carbon dioxide that nuclear energy production releases is comparable, in terms of each kilowatt hour of electricity, to such sources of green energy as wind power.

As an example of the green energy production the average wind turbine, such as the one in Reading England, can produce enough energy daily to be the only energy source for 1000 households.

Many countries now offer household and commercial consumers to opt for total use of green energy. They do this one of two ways. Consumers can buy their electricity from a company that only uses renewable green energy technology, or they can buy from their general supplies such as the local utility company who then buys from green energy resources only as much of a supply as consumers pay for.

The latter is generally a more cost - efficient way of supplying a home or office with green energy, as the supplier can reap the economic benefits of a mass purchase. Green energy generally costs more per kilowatt hour than standard fossil fuel energy.

Consumers can also purchase green energy certificates, which are alternately referred to as green tags or green certificates. These are available in both Europe and the United States, and are the most convenient method for the average consumer to support green energy. More than 35 million European households and one million American households now buy these green energy certificates.

While green energy is a great step in the direction of keeping our environment healthy and our air as pollutant free as possible, it must be noted that no matter what the energy, it will negatively impact the environment to some extent.

Every energy source, green or otherwise, requires energy. The production of this energy will create pollution during its manufacture. Green energys impact is minimal, however.

CASSVILLE, Wis. - When it comes back online later this year, the DTE E. J. Stoneman power plant will be the first totally “green” power plant in Wisconsin. It will have a 40-megawatt capacity.

The plant conversion will lead to the addition of 17 to 35 employees.

In July 2008, DTE Energy Services, of Ann Arbor, Mich., purchased the power plant and retained Stoneman plant manager Gary Austin, who came to the plant in January 2008.

DTE said it planned to convert the coal-fired plant to burn wood waste, a renewable fuel.

Former village president Louis Okey, now a member of the Cassville Economic Development Board, praised Austin.

“This is a big deal for Cassville,” Okey said. “He saw a diamond in the rough. He’s a knowledgeable guy who loves the area. He saw a chance for the plant to do real well.”

The plant will burn mostly urban wood waste, primarily from building demolition that would normally go to a landfill.

The conversion process is approaching a crescendo with structural - steel and concrete - work under way. It also includes converting the boilers from burning pulverized coal to a stoker technology and conversion of the material-handling process.

Forty-five to 60 people are working on the conversion. At the peak, 90 people will be involved.

The effort includes stockpiling fuel sources. DTE has a 13-acre quarry site near Dickeyville that’s almost full.

Okey and Austin agree the project will have a big economic impact on the area, adding indirect jobs related to supplying wood - chippers, cutters, truck drivers and barge operators.

“This is all going to help local companies - from trucking to storing,” Okey said. “And other small businesses should benefit.”

Get eco in your kitchen with these tips. From electricity, to water consumption, your kitchen can be earth-happy if you follow some simple guidelines to re-use items, minimize waste and be as environmentally friendly as you can.

Microwave - Cooking in the microwave and other small appliances can be extremely efficient compared to a stove. When buying one, go for models with the highest energy star rating.

Bamboo and aluminium steamers - Bamboo or aluminium steamers are perfect for conserving energy. Always try to combine cooking time and energy. For example, a roast and vegies can both be cooked in the oven at the same time, while a pot of pasta can also be used to steam vegies.

Food processor or blender - Making your own sauces, dips and dressing not only saves money, it’s healthier and drastically reduces packaging.

Eco bags - When you get back from the shops, put your eco carry bags back into your car or handbag to avoid forgetting them next time. Many eco-bags are made from a light weight parachute material that is easy to compact and stow away.

Water efficient fittings - As has become the standard, it is a great idea to install water=saving devices throughout the home - especially in the kitchen where taps are used the most.

Pots of herbs - Plants herbs in pots and place them close to your kitchen. That way, when you need some fresh herbs, they are already close at hand.

Recycling - Set up a system to separate your waste. Separate plastics, glass, newspaper and cans. Put a calendar up to remind yourself when different items are collected and contact your local council for more information.

Compost Pail or Bokashi bin - Invest in a small compost pail or in a bokashi bin to collect your kitchen scraps. By keeping your compost pail close by, it’s easier to collect scraps as you go and then add them to your garden or composting system later.

DIY cleaning products - ditch the chemicals and make your own cleaning products. Mix white vinegar with water for a terrific floor cleaner and add a touch of lemon for a fresh scent.

Leftover fridge calendar - Keep a calendar on the fridge to mark your leftovers. This way, you can tell at a glance if you really need to do another shopping trip.

Plastic tub - Don’t have a grey water system? Use a plastic tub in the sink to catch water from washing vegetables. If you use a grey water safe dish detergent, you can gather the water you use from rinsing your dishes as well.

Coffee and tea - Use fair trade, organic or rainforest alliance coffees where ever possible. Same goes for teas. Always go for loose-leaf teas brewed in a pot or plunger - less packaging.

Kettle - Go for the most energy efficient model. Look for ones that shut off after the water is boiled and remember to only boil the amount of water you need to avoid re heating unnecessarily.

The world of big business is making daily headlines by “going green” after discovering that what’s good for the planet is also proving good for business.

IBM recently announced “Project Big Green,” a $1 billion initiative to reduce energy consumption by offering new lines of energy-efficient IT products.

Wal-Mart is adding solar power to more than 20 stores.

PepsiCo is buying renewable energy certificates to offset its carbon footprint. Even major banks and energy firms are being asked by shareholders to prove that they, too, are going green.

It’s not just the biggest businesses that are attracting new customers and shareholders and reaping huge profits by “going green.” Small businesses also are growing eco-profits by embracing surprisingly inexpensive strategies to add value to their products, services and brand.

Consider these innovative examples:

- Bob Smith of Mad River Brewing Company in Blue Lake, California, has attracted positive publicity (and new customers) by promoting his efforts to reduce his small firm’s waste output and take other environmentally conscious steps. In turn, he has received welcome positive publicity from the press. “What PR budget? That is our PR budget,” he told the Albuquerque Tribune about “going green” to market his business.

- In Florida, Natalie Kelly formed Home Therapy Cleaning Services, which uses only nontoxic, all-natural cleaning products for her home cleaning business. She used to sell aromatherapy candles from her home, she told the St. Petersburg Times, but today uses an aromatherapy baking soda blend to freshen carpets.

Here’s what you can do:

- Two inexpensive ways any small business or solo entrepreneur can go green are to change light bulbs to energy-efficient bulbs and use biodegradable cleaning products.

- With that done, tell your customers and the media about these simple ways to go green. You will have just earned instant credibility as a green business, and also as a media resource for simple, effective ways to “go green.”

- Many communities online and offline are forming networks to exchange energy-saving ideas for home and business. Form your own energy network, enlisting neighborhood businesses that will welcome another opportunity to show they’re going green, too. The plus for you is that you will have just positioned yourself and your business as a community environmental leader.

- Copy what the New York Times called “Phase 2″ of the corporate response to global warming. Partner with an environmental group. Travelocity invites customers to donate an extra $10 to $40, which goes to the Conservation Fund to plant trees to offset the carbon used by a client to take a trip. Whole Foods invites customers to buy a $5 “wind power card” that goes to Renewable Choice Energy to build wind farms. What local environmental group can you partner with to promote on your Web site (and vice versa), to set aside a day that a percentage of profits will go to that organization or to make their fliers available at your business?

- Make use of readily available, free information to hand out with your business literature or to make available in your office. For example, create a one-page flier on your letterhead inviting clients to calculate their own carbon footprint by visiting http://multimedia.wri.org/safeclimate_calculator.cfm.

- Go deeper green! Attend a “green” conference in your community or region, and promote your attendance. (Go to Google.com and type in “green” and “conference” and your area to find out when and where they are scheduled.) Write a “green” article on simple ways you are going green and submit it to one of the dozens of “green” Web sites and blogs that invite reader contributions. It’s a great way to market your smart ideas and your business!

About the Author:

Tushar Mathur We are all About Green at : Talking About Green and selling green products at : Buy Green

Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - Going Green Is Not Just For Big Business-You Can Grow Profits, Too!

The Australian Bureau of Statistics reports that between 1992 and 2002, Australians spent over $1.6 billion on home renovation. And with the current economic downturn, more and more homeowners are considering hanging on to their residents and giving them a new look instead of buying a new one.

One of the first renovation considerations for most homeowners is remodelling the bathroom. That salmon colour scheme with sea foam green might have been a great look for the 50s, but it just might not be your cup of tea.

For the eco minded renovation, there are many sustainable options for the bathroom. From tips to save water, energy - and some precious cleaning time - here are some Green Pages eco tips for going eco in your bathroom:

Eco Home Tip # 1 - Upcycle/Recycle - Consider second hand pieces for furniture. An old dresser or buffet could make a great vanity. By visiting some great recycle shops, you may find a treasure trove to inspire the ecomagination.

Eco Home Tip # 2 - Lighting au natural - consider installing a skylight to let in natural light during the day. Many skylights can also be ventilated which will save on cleaning (see Eco Tip 5). For artificial, opt for energy efficient globes and fixtures.

Eco Home Tip # 3 - Hey you, try a watersaving loo - Australians were the first to pioneer dual flush toilets, let’s all be proud. The unique shape of the bowl is the secret behind this ingenious invention, which can save on average 35,000 litres of water a year. There’s also the option of installing a waterless urinal in your home, the perfect water saving solution for a house of growing boys.

Eco Home Tip # 4 - Low flow taps and showerheads - Get your fittings measured up and put in flow restrictors or install some low flow fittings. When getting your plumbing put in, call certified Green Plumber who can answer many of our eco bathroom questions.

Eco Home Tip # 5 - Ventilation Revolution - Hate cleaning the bathroom? Here’s a quick tip - by installing a fan or ceiling ventilation, you reduce the build up of mould, mildew and foul odours. This means less cleaning, especially with those harsh bleach based chemical cleaners. (which you should ditch for eco cleaning ideas)

Eco Home Tip # 6 - Eco IS a material change - there are eco option for practically everything, solvent free eco paint, sustainable timber or bamboo cabinetry, recycled glass tiles, screens, blinds, windows, everything you can think of. Do your research on sustainable architecture and eco home products such as those listed on the Green Pages green directory for the green home.

And don’t forget, once you have eco bathroom of your dreams, stock it up with some great eco home products. Delectably scented beeswax candles, luxurious organic cotton or bathroom towels, organic hemp shower curtains and organic soaps (and of course recycled loo paper!) are just some great items you can use to give the your own personal eco touch.

The Green Pages green directory has all the best green products to help you go green.

Great place for Alternative Energy ideas

1. Start by switching to green power

   The easiest way to switch to green energy is to call your current provider and see if they offer an alternative. An increasing number of companies do, harnessing renewable sources like wind and solar power to offer electric service in their markets. This costs more for the consumer, since you’ll pay a premium to offset the money involved in tapping the alternative source, but the price varies: in Sacramento, you’ll pay 5 cents per kilowatt hour or $30 a month for solar, and in Oregon you’ll shell out only .8 cents per kilowatt hour for wind, geothermal, or hydropower. Curious about the options in your state?

2. Plug in to solar power

   There are two kinds of solar power you can use in your home: active and passive. Active solar power is captured through solar cells (also known as photovoltaics), and then stored to later provide heat or electricity-or to supplement a traditional heating or electrical system. But before you buy a solar system for your house, keep a few points in mind: many towns have restrictions on the size and type of collectors they’ll allow; the annual number of sunny days in your climate will affect how much power you can collect (the Southwest usually has the best luck with solar collection); and the system’s cost efficiency varies based on its size, your location, and the amount of power you plan to get from it.

3. Get passive solar to work for you

   The second kind of solar power, passive solar, doesn’t involve the (expensive) photovoltaic cells and mechanical systems of active solar, but still takes advantage of the sun to heat your home in one of three ways: direct gain, which collects light through the windows; indirect gain, which stores thermal energy within the walls; and isolated gain, more commonly put to use in a solarium or sun room setup. By thinking about window placement, insulation, and even landscaping–trees can be the ultimate passive solar helpers, since they soak up solar in the hot summer, and let the sun through in the winter—it’s possible to help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

4. Opt for solar hot water

   You can also use solar power to heat the water for your showers, dishwasher, and laundry (though why aren’t you using cold water for that?) by installing a solar hot water system. If you live in a place where freezing temps aren’t a concern, look for a direct circulation system-this cycles water through the solar heater and into the home; otherwise, go for an indirect circulation system, which runs a freeze-proof fluid through the system to prevent icing. Both those active systems are generally more efficient than passive solar heaters, which don’t have the same pumps and controls but can be more dependable. No matter which system you choose, you’ll want to consider a (smaller) more traditional hot water heater for backup on days when the sun won’t come out or for showering during peak times.

5. Tap into the earth’s natural geo-energy

   The terms “geothermal” and “ground source heat pump” are nearly interchangeable in casual conversation-but they shouldn’t be, since they’re not the same. Geothermal energy comes right from the ground-think hot springs, geysers, and volcanic areas—while ground source heat pumps use the relatively steady temperature of the Earth (as compared to the air) to heat and cool buildings. These heat pumps use as little as half as much electricity as traditional systems, and generally last between 25 and 50 years; while they are more expensive to install than other systems, you can expect the system to pay for itself in energy savings in less than 10 years.

6. Replace oil with biofuel

   You can also heat your home using biofuels—nontoxic, biodegradable, and renewable power sources, like those made from animal and vegetable fats and oils or wood. If you’re using oil heat, have a technician take a look at your furnace and get the okay to switch to a blend of 20%-99% biodiesel; in most cases, you won’t need any additional parts or service to make the switch. Using a woodstove to heat your home is an age-old solution, but the more modern version is the pellet stove: The pellets of compressed sawdust take up less storage space than a wood pile, and burn with so few emissions that they aren’t required to get EPA certification. (One tip: if you’re going this route, find a local source for inexpensive pellets first.)

7. Harness the power of the wind

   Wind energy is one of the cleanest forms of alternative energy available, and using it can cut your electricity bill by as much as 90 percent. Once you make sure your area is zoned to allow wind turbines, you’ll want to make sure you have enough space—the Department of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy suggests at least one acre of rural land—and a climate that affords a steady breeze. Run an energy audit on your home to determine what size turbine you’ll need; most houses require between 5 and 15 kilowatts to produce an average of 780 kilowatt hours every each month. And wind turbine systems aren’t cheap, so run the numbers to figure out if you’ll save enough to make the 20-year investment worth it.

8. Capture small-scale hydropower

   Before you can use hydropower for residential energy, you’ll need one very important jumping-off point: running water on your property. If you are lucky enough to have a creek, stream, or river in your backyard, then a micro hydropower system may be a good alternative energy solution. By diverting a portion of the water through a wheel or turbine, you allow a shaft to spin; the spinning allows immediate results, like pumping water, or more indirect usage, like powering a generator. These calculations from the Department of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy can help you figure out if your water source will provide enough energy to significantly offset your electric bill.

9. Make a smart start

   If you’re in the process of buying a home, it’s easier to make alternative energy work for you, by buying a property that comes with running water or room for wind turbines, for example. If you’re designing from the ground up, choose a roof that’s specially fitted for solar panels; place your house on the lot so it takes advantage of the sun; build with passive solar materials; and use daylighting technology by installing windows and doors in places that allow you to get the most out of natural light sources,and to go green.

10. Think smaller

    If you can’t make the jump to powering your entire house with alternative energy, start by focusing on one room at a time. Or look even more closely at your life, and get small solar cells to charge your laptop, cell phone, iPod, and other small gadgets—every little bit helps!

Great place for Alternative Energy ideas

eco friendly products
Ever heard the term ‘biodegradable’? We have all heard it in science classes, but most of us may have listened to it half-heartedly. Today, however, this term is whipping up loads of emotions all over the world. While a large section of the population is vociferously supporting the cause of biodegradable products, a few still believe that this is a case of much ado about nothing. When it comes to making the decision to go green by changing your lifestyle, most people are hesitant to take the first step. Many feel that it is a chore; others think that one person simply cannot make a difference.

If you happen to be perched on the wall regarding this debate, then, here are the top reasons why it is necessary that you take a pro-environment stand – Now!

Many developed countries like America and Europe suffer from severe consumption addiction. They use non-biodegradable products, which will never be recycled or reused. For instance, it is believed that millions of used mobile phones finding their way to landfills everyday. These phones will stay there for thousands of years. Products like Styrofoam, plastic, PVC and cadmium
choke the environment. People have long been using plastic bags for shopping. It is believed that America alone produces billions of polybags every year. When you consider the total volume of plastic waste generated by the expanding populations of the world, you will realize that it is enough to make major changes to the planet.

Unfortunately, the majority of such wastes are made from toxic, non-biodegradable materials that release hazardous waste into the air and earth. By opting to switch over from plastic bags to environment friendly products like bamboo and hemp products, you drastically reduce the non-biodegradable waste in the environment.

Eco friendly products encourage and enable healthy lifestyles for people who care enough for the society and environment they live in. Thus, they encourage safe living for future generations.

Eco friendly products are made with fewer raw materials. That means there is comparatively lesser destruction of forests and trees.

Sustainable, eco friendly products are typically cheaper and they last longer. The cost of most products is dependent on the kind of materials used. However, it is important to remember that some organic products may be expensive because they are grown in a pesticide-free environment. Even so, sustainable products have a longer payback period and represent the correct use of resources.

Eco friendly products are generally manufactured in an environmentally sound process. So, there is less emission of toxic waste and harmful chemicals. There is also a significant reduction of waste in the production process.

There is greater variety in eco friendly products because they are made from materials that are widely available. Also, many of these products are ingenuously manufactured. So they have special textures, feel and look. Add to that the feel-good factor associated with doing the right thing and you have a perfect package of longevity, health and total return on your investment.

eco friendly products