- Emily Pilloton Discusses the Hippo Roller and other Designs for Humanity (Part One)
- Janine Benyus on Biomimicry in Design (Part Two)
- Janine Benyus on Biomimicry in Design (Part One)
- Andy Revkin - Climate in the Obama Age
- Fred Pearce - Confessions of An Eco-Sinner (Part Two)
- Fred Pearce - Confessions of An Eco-Sinner (Part One)
- Chris Goodall - Ten Techs to Save Our Butts (Part Two)
- Chris Goodall - Ten Techs to Save Our Butts (Part One)
Entries for October 9, 2005 - October 15, 2005
Total this week: 84
Stratus: the first LEED certified winery
by Lloyd Alter, Toronto on 10.15.05
Until recently Niagara, Ontario wines did not amount to much, and the wineries less so, tending to phony chateau style. All this has changed- the wines are good, and Jackson Triggs broke the design barrier with its fabulous Kuwabara Paine McKenna Blumberg building. Now Stratus has created a "groundbreaking environmental design" with its new building by Niagara architect Les Andrew. It has geothermal heating and cooling, recycled materials, composting of vegetal waste, bike lockers and that new trademark, a company Prius. Even the winemaking process has been modified- instead of using conveyors and pumps to move the grapes and wine, they use gravity. Treehugger likes LEED that looks good- this one does. We have not tried the wine, but look forward to receiving reviewers samples. ::Stratus Wines via ::Globe and Mail...
Inexpensive DIY Solar Power - The $600 Kit
by Michael Graham Richard, Ottawa, Canada on 10.15.05
We all know that outfitting a house with solar panels is not cheap right now. Harnessing enough sun to be able to live completely off-grid costs many thousands of dollars, up to many tens of thousands depending on how much electricity is needed. But do we really need to go from 0% to 100% clean energy in one go? That's not usually the way things are done; we usually do incremental changes. The idealist will say that it's not fast enough (and might be right), but the realist will say that the mainstream has more chances of going for it if it's not too radical and expensive, and that the power of numbers is hard to deny. So the question is: Do we really need to go 100% solar at once? What is the least you could pay and still end up with enough solar juice to run some things around the house? The Off-Grid weblog answers that question.
Update: How to Make Inexpensive DIY Home-Built Solar Panels with Damaged Solar Cells from Ebay...
HyFish: Fuel Cell Powered Flying ...Fish?
by Christine Lepisto, Berlin on 10.15.05
Economy, Safety, Emotion. The design drivers touted by company Smartfish don't include treehugging, or eco- anything. String search "env" and you are more likely to find "envy" than "environment". Koni Schafroth (pictured) may or may not be trying to be a treehugger. But with a design that rocking, his HyFish is the perfect choice for the German Aerospace Center (DLR) project to build an airplane powered by a fuel cell. ...
Cameron Sinclair Wins Worldchanging Wish
by Dominic Muren, Philadelphia, USA on 10.15.05
Architecture for Humanity founder Cameron Sinclair is one of three recipients of this year's TED prize for exceptional service toward humanity. As a reward, Mr. Sinclair, along with physician Larry Brilliant, documentary filmmaker Jehane Noujaim, will be allowed one wish from the 800 attendees of the TED conference. These worldchanging-minded folk will then endeavor to make that wish come true. Talk about a great prize! It's no wonder though; AFH has done some marvelous work, not the least of which was sponsoring this contest for a soccer field in Africa. :: TED Homepage...
Solid Wood's reclaimed Douglas products
by Erwan Pianezza, Locronan, Brittany on 10.15.05
Bio-carpenters know about Douglas Fir species for building : highly durable, requiring very little, if none, artificial preservation treatment. At TreeHugger we were wondering "what are the furniture makers doing with Douglas Fir" ? Inexpensive, though not as hard and heavy as oak , Douglas Fir is a good compromise for good value indoor and outdoor furniture products. Solid Wood, a Canadian company, has designed this nice blend of natural materials, such as natural slates inlay. ...
Jute Age or Hemp Age: Take Your Pick
by John Laumer, Philadelphia on 10.15.05
What luxurious carpet does not have "jute backing"? What excellent basmati rice does not come in a jute bag? As demand for jute and plastic automotive composites, jute hand bags and suitcases, jute carpet backing, and so on, ramp up, we could enter the "Jute Age"; and why not, it's a natural fiber? Things to keep mind while answering that rhetorical question include: jute comes from developing nations...places like India, Bangladesh, and China...much hand labor is required, and processing is water intensive. And it must be shipped across the sea, unlike Canadian grown hemp. Check out the jute-iculture pics below. ...
A "Rare" Approach: Soap Operas for the Planet
by Erin Courtenay - Madison, WI on 10.14.05
When it comes to "out of the box" environmental communication, the organization Rare takes the cake. Understanding that the usual brochure/advertising/direct mail strategies for environmental outreach will fall flat with their audience - people living on the small islands of the Caribbean and the Western Pacific - they turned to a media form popular among islanders: radio drama. Since 1996, Rare has been harnessing the power of storytelling on behalf of conservation through its radio soap opera program – using compelling characters and spicy storylines to motivate behavior change and increased awareness on everything from reproductive health to protection of natural resources. Recently, Rare teamed up with the cast and crew of the popular US daytime soap As The World Turns to coach local actors and actresses who star in a soap opera series produced by the organization. On October 25, Rare will host "Rare Affair," a benefit for the program featuring celebrity guests such as Emmy Award-winning journalist Charlie Rose, Nobel Laureate Derek Walcott, and cast and crew from As The World Turns....
Esse Firewall Gas Fireplace
by Lloyd Alter, Toronto on 10.14.05
We have talked of pellet stoves, corn stoves and wood stoves but rarely about gas fireplaces- they usually are designed to (poorly) mimic wood burners and burn gas inefficiently compared to a furnace. However, if you have a small, well insulated place (like every treehugger should) the 2400 watt output of the elegant new Esse Firewall stove can probably fill the bill. We love its minimalist aesthetic combined with catalytic air purifier and (they say) 100% efficiency. Barcelona chairs are, unfortunately, an optional extra. ::Esse Firewall via ::boingboing
...
Recycled For Dogs: Heave Hose
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.14.05
In one of the more unusual acts of repurposing, these colorful dog toys are made by Katie's Bumpers out of pre-consumer recycled fire hose cloth. A rope is attached for easy tossing, and you can put them in the wash. Priced at $14 each from IIKH. Story via Great Green Goods...
Tired of Dishwashing? Recycle Those Plates
by Dominic Muren, Philadelphia, USA on 10.14.05
Your home dish washing may seem annoying. But for a restaurant or cafeteria, it can be a nightmare. Huge inputs of water and energy are needed to maintain the hundreds or thousands of dishes these businesses need every day. And the storage space needed for those plates, bowls and cups really adds up. A new prototype tableware system developed at MIT's Media Lab proposes a solution to this problem: Don't store, create to suit......
Prius Recall Extended to 160,000 Units Worldwide
by Michael Graham Richard, Ottawa, Canada on 10.14.05
This is a quick update on a previous post: On October 13th, Toyota recalled 75,000 Prius cars in the US, and on October 14th it extended the recall to Prius cars from around the world for a total number of 160,000. The recall is for models made between August 2003 and February 2005. "The recall covers 70,000 Prius cars in Japan; 15,000 in Europe, Australia and other markets; and the 75,000 in the US." ::Yahoo News, via Green Car Congress...
The TH Week :: Hemp's Not Hippy
by Dominic Muren, Philadelphia, USA on 10.14.05
This week in Treehugger, hemp was a major topic of conversation. We were pleased to see it shedding its patchouli-infused hippy aura, and bravely striking out into high fashion and local production.
:: Erin sent us running to the boutiques for Deborah Lindquist's celebrity-endorsed couture hemp fashions..
:: John had us singing "Oh Canada" in praise of Hemptown's successful round of funding solicitation.
:: Warren got his Yoga on in Natural High's beautiful hemp/cotton blend clothing.
:: Justin brought us this gorgeous Ming T Hemp top from Global Hemp....
Yamaha's Gen-Ryu Hybrid Motorcycle
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.14.05
Yamaha is bringing nine motorcycles to the 39th Tokyo Motor Show coming up later this month. One of the bikes will be the Gen-Ryu hybrid motorcycle prototype which combines the YZF-R6 600cc engine with a high output, high efficiency electric motor. Yamaha claims that the Gen-Ryu offers the running performance and handling of a 1,000-cc machine. :: Yamaha via Green Car Congress
...
TreeHugger "Old Faithful" Contest: Win a $100 Vivavi Gift Certificate!
by Sean Fisher, Cincinnati, Ohio on 10.14.05
The TreeHugger "Old Faithful" contest just got a bit more interesting. The winning entry will now receive a $100 Vivavi gift certificate redeemable throughout their online store! If you are unfamiliar with Vivavi, go on over to their site and check out some of their sleek eco-friendly furnishings. In order to walk away with the Vivavi gift certificate, though, you do have to enter - so send a picture and description of your "old faithful" to: contest [at] treehugger [dot] com. Good luck! ...
The First Six Cradle to Cradle Certifications
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.14.05
McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry (MBDC) has announced the first six products to qualify for Cradle to Cradle certification. Pictured here is the Think Chair by Steelcase. The new program evaluates and certifies the quality of products by measuring their positive effects upon the environment, human health, and social equity. See this previous post for more information). Here is a list of the current qualifying products:...
Hybrids, Diesels Dominate 2006 Fuel-Efficiency List
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.14.05
The manual transmission version of the hybrid Honda Insight tops the latest EPA fuel efficiency list, with 60 MPG in the city and 66 MPG on the highway. Second was the hybrid Toyota Prius with 60 MPG city and 51 MPG highway. But the Honda Civic Hybrid didn't make this year's list of 2006 models, despite fuel economy behind only that of the Honda Insight and the Toyota Prius. Reportedly, the car missed the testing cut-off date....
IKEA's Environmental And Social Reports
by Warren McLaren, Sydney on 10.14.05
When you have over 200 stores worldwide, with nearly 80,000 staff, servicing some 500 million customers annually, with about 10,000 products, sourced from around 1,600 suppliers in 55 countries, it’s likely that your ecological footprint is going to be substantial. So, what is IKEA doing to reduce theirs? They have a list of “substances which should not be used in IKEA products: These include; wood preservatives like 'copper chrome arsenic' (CCA), antimony compounds and PVC (with the exception of electrical cables). There is a similar list of “restricted substances” that includes the likes of any formaldehyde, which “shall be below E1 level in wood based products, and even stricter concerning textiles.” They note that in the long term all timber used for IKEA products will come from certified forests. And they acknowledge that FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified is the “only current standard that meets the long-term aims of IKEA”. ...
Hemptown Secures $1.4 Million Funding.
by John Laumer, Philadelphia on 10.14.05
This title is emblematic of a macroeconomic trend. Much of the clothing fiber produced for US markets is highly dependent on hydrocarbon inputs and cheap foreign labor. Both these resources now are primarily sourced from developing and undeveloped economies. Even organic cotton is highly dependent on hydrocarbons and irrigation water inputs. Hemp has an edge in several departments. Our neighbors in Canada allow it as a commercial crop; and both hydrocarbon and water inputs are relatively low per unit of fiber produced. (Check out the Hemptown website for some stats on water use.) With hydrocarbon prices up, the logic of the market place puts its bets on the fiber to win. We TreeHuggers saw that coming. It's fun to see the investment community catching on....
Clean Sweep by Alison Haynes
by Kara DiCamillo, Newport, Rhode Island on 10.14.05
Did you ever sit back and look around and think, “How did I end up with all of this clutter?” Or more importantly, “How do I get rid of this clutter?” Seems we have numerous times, and yet, it still remains. One of our tipsters, Angelune D. was thinking similar things when she picked up Clean Sweep by Alison Haynes but was quite surprised about its content. Not only is the book “An Ultimate Guide to Decluttering, Detoxing and Destressing Your Home” but it focuses on efficiency and health as well as tips on how to keep a nice home while not ruining the environment. The book is filled with recipes for homemade cleaners and tips for saving energy and reducing waste. It even teaches you how to remove stains from pretty much anything so that you don't have to throw items away. Angelune says that it’s a very good resource for anyone looking to rid their home of chemicals, and also for young people living on their own for the first time. Thanks for the tip! ::Clean Sweep at Amazon.com...
Toyota Recalls 75,000 Prius Hybrids
by Kara DiCamillo, Newport, Rhode Island on 10.14.05
One of our favorites here on Treehugger is Toyota's Prius and when we caught wind of this story we felt a need to keep all of you hybrid fans in the know. Toyota announced yesterday that they have recalled 75,000 Prius Hybrids because their engines can stall due to an electrical problem. The cars involved are some 2004 and early model 2005's. Toyota's spokesman Xavier Dominicis said they started investigating when about 68 reports came through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Toyota's says it will voluntarily recall the cars and repair them for free and Dominicis stressed that "the defect isn't related to the Prius's gas-electric hybrid system and could happen in any vehicle." Thankfully, no one has been injured and apparently the vehicle's electric motor will continue operating, in a limited capacity, so drivers can steer to the side of the road. We found it interesting that we couldn't find any information on Toyota's site - maybe it's just that they haven't had time to update it yet. Via ::Yahoo News ...
Jack Johnson's Summer Tour: Good People, Good Music, Good Earth
by Erin Courtenay - Madison, WI on 10.13.05
Jack Johnson's 2005 summer tour not only brought good vibes and sunny smiles to music fans around the US and Canada, it was also a showcase of impressive eco-friendly tour activities. The Climate Neutral Network granted the tour Climate CoolTM certification for Jack and crew's multi-faceted approach to reducing the environmental impact of a typically resource-intensive endeavor. From supporting environmental organizations to driving biodiesel fueled buses and selling eco-friendly merch, the summer tour was planned and conducted with the Earth in mind. Perhaps one of the most compelling aspects of the tour was the influence that the eco-actions had on the venues hosting the tour. The Meriweather Post Pavilion was especially active in their participation: creating a compost pit, switching to florescent lighting, LED lighting and updating their recycling program were all done as a result of hosting the Jack Johnson show....
Sustainable and Affordable: Ming T by Global Hemp
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.13.05
This T-shirt from the Global Hemp Store is made of 55% hemp and 45% organic cotton jersey stretch. It's available in a variety of warm autumn colors. The price is $30.40 — pretty good. The store has a range of other sustainable clothing for men and women. :: Global Hemp Store...
Deborah Lindquist Designs Hot Hollywood Eco-Threads
by Erin Courtenay - Madison, WI on 10.13.05
"Sexy" "Sassy" "Eco-friendly"... which one is not like the other ones? None of 'em if you ask Deborah Lindquist, the au currant must-have L.A. fashion designer. Who knew that the too-hot girl group Pussycat Dolls was decked out in Lindquist's recycled eco-friendly vamp-wear,? or that A-listers Charlize Theron, Gwen Stefani, and Christina Aguilera are keen on her vintage, hemp, bamboo and organic cotton duds? Ms. Lindquist's love for the environment and fashion inspired her exquisite line that is not only ecologically sensitive but cutting-edge as well. Trend setters Cameron Diaz, Paris Hilton, Sarah Jessica Parker, Christina Applegate, and Lucy Liu are also fans of her feminine confections. ...
Recycler :: Solar Power
by Jeremy McCumber on 10.13.05
Petrochemical power is so passe. Check out these solar oldies but goodies, and join in the Treehugger credo: Let the Sun Shine In!
1) Super cool and super charged solar power bags from Voltiac.
2) solar powered bio-diesel pumps in Santa Cruz.
3) Light your path in style with these solarbricks.
4) Map your next conquest with this solar powered GPS unit from F-Tech.
5) Finally, if you’re one of those who want to go all-solar, Treehugger offers up some advice and links on how much it will cost you. ...
Ecological Paradise at The Brando
by Kara DiCamillo, Newport, Rhode Island on 10.13.05
Come 2008 the eco-travel industry will have a wonderful addition. Located in the French Polynesian Islands, The Brando will be a lavish eco-hotel built on the island of Tetiaroa. The island is owned by the late Marlon Brando and the project is being overseen by Tahiti Beachcomber SA, whose CEO, Richard Bailey, was in contact with the late actor for a number of years about the vision of The Brando. Just 26 miles north of Tahiti, Tetiaroa is currently inhabited by one person, Brando’s son, Teihotu. The eco-hotel in this unspoiled environment will be energy-autonomous, built with natural materials and will showcase the latest in renewable energy technologies. The plan for the resort is very much in keeping with the philosophy of Brando, who shared Bailey’s wish to protect the environment. We’ll make sure to keep you updated because if you’re like us, we can’t wait to visit this natural and ecological paradise. ::The Brando...
Freiburg Has Solar Flair
by Warren McLaren, Sydney on 10.13.05
Imagine a city founded, ... well, closing in on 1,000 years ago, that now has a modern population of more than 200,000. Thirty years ago they were propositioned with a nuclear power plant, but being eminently sensibly people said “ No, Thanks”. Actually, they said. “Nein, Danke” as the city is Freiburg, Germany. Turning their back on isotopes, they looked to the sun and set about becoming an "ecological capital" instead. And it would appear they are exceedingly well on track. Over 400 solar installations, including the soccer stadium, hospitals, schools, fair grounds, homes and the central station. Let’s not forget the local brewery either. ...
Make a Difference with The Groovy Mind
by Kara DiCamillo, Newport, Rhode Island on 10.13.05
For the past week, it’s been raining here in the Northeast and needless to say, we needed a cup of coffee pretty badly this morning. We brew our own at home instead of hitting up the local Starbucks and it seemed like the perfect time to dive into our “Groovy Gift Box” we received from The Groovy Mind. Melanie Mitzner and her business partner, Nicke Gorney, launched their Fair Trade, organic and eco-friendly online store to trade in higher consciousness and to further the movements of environmental sustainability and social and economic justice. The site sells delicious coffee and tea, luscious chocolate and yummy snacks in addition to handmade crafts and toys. People love to both give and receive socially responsible and environmentally sustainable gifts so in addition to the gift boxes they also offer “Gourmet Gift Certificates” and “Gourmet Gift Memberships” to either the coffee or tea club. So as we sit here and sip our Smooth Groove (delicious!), we read the information card that Mitzner and Gorney included for us: “change the world one sip at a time.” Today is already looking better. ::The Groovy Mind...
Boing! Fleas Yield Biomimicry Secret
by Warren McLaren, Sydney on 10.13.05
Resilin is the elastic compound that fleas have lurking in their knees. It allows them to jump so stupendously high and far. Now scientists at Australia’s peak research organisation, CSIRO, have been able to reproduce the substance inside the lab. It has taken them a full 3 years, yet they are still pretty chuffed, because they figure Mother Nature was on the job for millions of years before she got it right. But don’t expect to find the stuff replacing the 'Air' in Mr Jordan’s shoes just yet. It could be a decade before they have a commercialised version ready. And then, because it offers 100 million cycles (give or take one or two) of compression and relaxation, it will probably be used for “spinal disc prostheses or replacements for damaged spinal discs” as these have high “fatigue lifetimes". What's Biomimicry? Read all about it. ::Via ABC Online...
Food and Class
by Lloyd Alter, Toronto on 10.13.05
Tom Philpott runs Maverick Farms, blogs at Bitter Greens Journal and Maverick Eats. We do not know how he finds the time to write remarkable articles like today's Food And Class in Gristmill. He points out that where "Historically, people of limited means have tended to scrape by on what's locally available, while the wealthy have used their resources to draw in fancy food from far away. Now, that situation has turned upside down." So we pay 5 bucks for a tomato and 20 bucks a pound for lettuce that is grown locally and picked carefully while those with less money get McDonalds and Walmart groceries. -a must read. ::Food and Class in Gristmill...
Mega Q&A: Can My Printing Be Greener?
by Warren McLaren, Sydney on 10.13.05
Q. ”Being a student, I type a lot of essays, and always cringe when I have to print out a long papers (printing back-to-back somehow just isn't acceptable, and the bibliography can't just go at the end, it must be a separate page). Do they make recycled printer paper? If so, what is the best/which contains the highest post-consumer content? Thanks a lot.” Samantha L. When this landed on my digital desk I thought, “Oh, sh#t, and there’s the long neglected Wade, who wanted to know: “Why is it that nearly all copy/printer paper seems to contain no more than 30% recycled material?” And the similarly unloved Sara A, who asked, “Do you guys know anything about environmentally friendly toner for laser printers?” ...
Radiant Flooring Is Wholesome
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.13.05
Radiant flooring has been in use since the days of the Roman Empire when they channeled hot air under the floors of their villas. Basically, radiant systems heat an entire room evenly — not just in localized spots. It is more efficient than baseboard heating and usually more efficient than forced-air heating because no energy is lost through ducts. Radiant systems are also unobtrusive and quiet....
Tree-Free "Turning a New Leaf " Journal
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.13.05
These fair-traded writing journals are handmade using 100% tree-free paper. They are made in Sanganer, India, the largest center of handmade paper in the world. A chemical-free process is used to recycle cotton and other fibers to make the paper for the journals. Ingredients like flowers and "agricultural materials" help to create a richly textured paper. Available from World of Good for $14.95.
...
L. L. Bean Does Organic Cotton
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.13.05
L. L. Bean is dabbling in the world of organic cotton by offering this women's Waffle Tee, which is made with combed 100% certified organic cotton, and produced using low-impact growing methods. It's priced at $24. They also offer one other women's organic cotton shirt, priced at $28, but it has a L.L Bean logo on it — ah well! :: L. L. Bean...
Bakelite Bits Vintage Plastic Jewelry
by Kyeann Sayer, Nomad on 10.12.05
Some of us wear our politics on our sleeves, others subtly around our necks or on our earlobes. Aileen Ward takes discarded vintage plastics and transforms them into contemporary jewelry designs. She's clearly up to the challenge of using plastics from another era without stumbling into the realm of kitsch. Many of her pieces incorporate bakelite or celluloid parts, scraps, or remnants. She also does amazing work with buttons, drawer pulls, and apple juice celluloid chains. The brass elements are vintage as well, though the other metals she uses are new. Continue reading below to see more of Aileen's creations. $30 - $168. :: Ruby Lane...
Gypsy Rose Recycled Cotton Rug
by Kyeann Sayer, Nomad on 10.12.05
Like many treehuggers who like pretty things, each time I find myself in Anthropologie my sensibilities tug in different directions. After catching sight of a tea cozy or quilt I'll think, "How sweet!" for a good ten seconds. Then I'll wonder whether a five-year-old made it and start thinking about all of the chemicals in its past. But for those who dig the updated French country/dilapidated château look, this rug is a pleaser. I can't vouch for the working conditions or the dye toxicity, but this patchwork beauty is created from recycled cotton knits. Also, your purchase supports the Sundance Institute, which funds film and environmental projects. $75 - $315. :: Sundance Catalog
...
Hybrid Grass Could Become Biomass Fuel
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.12.05
Giant Miscanthus, a hybrid grass that can grow 13 feet high, could become renewable solid fuel, according to researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Pictured here is doctoral student Emily Heaton standing next to a plot of Giant Miscanthus. The grass has tall bamboo-like stems that can be harvested in spring and burned for fuel. The researchers say burning the grass to produce electricity is carbon neutral. They also say it is a very efficient fuel, because the energy ratio of input to output is less than 0.2. In contrast, the ratios exceed 0.8 for ethanol and biodiesel from canola. :: RenewableEnergyAccess...
GreenHybrid's Real Mileage Database Grows
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.12.05
GreenHybrid.Com has a database of real-world mileage reports from hybrid car drivers. It now has statistics from over 1000 different cars in the database. The site also has an active discussion forum and a learning section where you can read about the basics of hybrid car technology. :: GreenHybrid.Com...
Take the Commute Solutions Challenge
by Michael Graham Richard, Ottawa, Canada on 10.12.05
Commute Solutions is "a business/government partnership that promotes a voluntary initiative striving to educate commuters in our region on the benefits of commute solutions." It is primarily addressed to Texans, but its message should be heard by everybody. The main goal is to get people to find alternatives to commuting alone in a car. If you live in Central Texas you can sign up for the Commuter Challenge and may win some prizes, but the real heart of the website is this page which contains the rules for the Challenge; Near the top there is a useful list of "commute solutions"......
Eco-Celeb: Jackie Chan
by Erin Courtenay - Madison, WI on 10.12.05
Jackie Chan may not drive a hybrid (or maybe he does) but he has taken meaningful action on behalf of the environment. Last April during a tour of Asia, he introduced newly developed wastewater purification equipment to Hong Kong and arranged a demonstration in purifying water from the polluted Tin Shui Wai Nullah canal. Jackie is working with EcoNova, a water treatment technology firm based in the U.S. “With the recent industrial development in the Mainland, I hope this new equipment would help to improve the environment of China," said Jackie. He has also offered his star power to environmental efforts on the mainland. In 2004 Jackie participated in the effort to build a Green Great Wall in China when he planted trees near Beijing's Great Wall to promote awareness of environmental protection. In recognition for his commitment to the environment in China, he was appointed an Environment and Culture Ambassador by the State Environmental Protection Administration. [Photos on next page]....
Hygenius: Mercedes' Fuel Cell Hybrid
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.12.05
The "Hygenius" is a fuel cell hybrid that Mercedes-Benz will introduce at the upcoming Tokyo show. The car will utilize fuel cell technology in combination with an electric motor. The result is that the car functions much like current hybrids, without the gas (or diesel). At low speeds the motor draws its power from the battery alone. When you accelerate, both fuel cell and battery feed the motor in unison. The company points out that the fuel cell could also serve as a mobile power source, its 66 kW of electrical power being sufficient to keep several detached houses supplied with power. :: Green Car Congress...
Toyota's Fuel Cell Future: the Fine-X
by Collin Dunn, Corvallis, OR, USA on 10.12.05
Any of you out there who are planning on attending the 39th Tokyo Motor Show are in for quite a treat. Toyota recently announced it's plans to display the fuel-cell hybrid vehicle they call the Fine-X. Among the long list of futuristic features: gull-wing doors, "Welcome Seats" that move in and out of the vehicle to assist entry and exit and four-wheel independent steering. Toyota also is also reportedly working on a carbon-neutral system, using plant-based materials (absorbing CO2 as they grow) for some interior and exterior elements. Built under the design philosophy they call "Vibrant Clarity," the Fine-X will be similar in size to other Toyota sedans, with interior room comparable to the Camry. ::GizMag via ::Gizmodo...
Matsuo Corp's "Eco-Paver", Water Retentive Blocks
by John Laumer, Philadelphia on 10.12.05
The "Eco-Paver" concrete slab is made from recycled construction materials, specially cast to wick up water, through capillary action, and perform a landscaping device-mimic of plant transpiration. Widespread deployment in a city or region would help urban areas adapt to climate change, mitigating against the "heat island" effect through evaporative cooling. From the The Yomiuri Shimbun of October 10'th: Ecopaver... "uses recycled waste materials such as concrete, asphalt and the incinerated ash of urban garbage; it saves energy by reducing the need for air-conditioning; and it contributes to the development of a recycling-oriented society"....
Recycled Saddle Leather Journals from Scribesdelight
by Kara DiCamillo, Newport, Rhode Island on 10.12.05
The past few times we went camping we’ve brought along a few journals to write down our thoughts and document the cool things we see but it always seems like we have the same complaint – they just aren’t rugged enough. The journals we’ve used tend to bend in our packs and often times get damp; you know the ones. However, it seems Kathleen S. may have found a solution for our next trek into the Appalachians. She forwarded along a site called Scribesdelight, a company that offers recycled saddle leather journals. We like that no two are alike and the fact that they never show signs of wear. And, if we run out of pages in our journal we don’t have to worry about purchasing a new one because these are refillable. Scribesdelight also sells recycled saddle leather organizers, sketchbooks, portfolios and totes and all can be monogrammed for personalization. Thanks, Kathleen, for the tip! ::Scribesdelight...
Late Show with Woody Harrelson
by Erin Courtenay - Madison, WI on 10.12.05
Did you happen to catch tonight's Late Show with David Letterman? Musical guest Fiona Apple is still playing and I'm reeling from the frank talk about the planet served up by none other than eco-celeb Woody Harrelson who was on the show to promote his new film North Country. Words like "organic," "sustainable," and "biodiesel" were part of the chit chat as Dave respectfully asked Woody about his way of life and his beliefs. Woody's definately a radical and had a few choice words for the petrochemical industry cum U.S. executive branch. Easily one of the most outspoken and straight talking eco-celebrities, Woody makes driving a hybrid look like child's play. Cheers to Woody and Dave! ...
Toray’s Ecodea — Plastic from the Paddock?
by Warren McLaren, Sydney on 10.12.05
Toray is a Japanese company that has its fingers in many pies. One is chemicals and fabrics. It’s in this realm that they have developed ‘Ecodea’, their version of a Polylactic Acid (PLA) polymer, or plastic. Derived mostly from the fermentation of corn starch, it can be processed like most synthetic (petroleum based) products. The essential differences being that it comes from a renewable source and can be composted after completing its useful life. Although this latter benefit now seems less definite. On an earlier webpage Toray claimed Ecodea would decompose “into water and CO2 in about a month when composted, or in a few years when simply buried in the earth.” Strangely that page is no longer seems available, but they now suggest Ecodea is ‘carbon neutral’, emitting the same amount of carbon dioxide “when incinerated or dumped”, as it absorbs when growing. ...
ALMOST: Klop Filtering Ashtray
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.11.05
The Klop is an ashtray that has a plant positioned above it. The plant is used to filter the cigarette or cigar smoke coming up from below. Designed by Grégoire Vandenbussche, the ashtray is made with cermaics and recycled polypropylene. We'll give it points for looking cool and being made of recycled materials, but the whole thing seems unnecessarily harsh to the plant. :: Story via Yanko Design
...
Corn Burning Stoves
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.11.05
Corn burning stoves are similar to pellets stoves but use corn kernels as fuel instead. Most corn suppliers are located in the interior states, so these stoves are most useful in those areas, but they are used all around the country. Corn is a fuel that burns clean and does not require a conventional chimney. You can vent corn stoves outdoors by using a type "L" or "B" double wall vent. Golden Grain sells stoves that have a range of 13,000 to 40,000 BTUs. Their corn stove models 1101 and 2004 are capable of heating most average homes. Northern Tool and Equipment also sells a corn stove for about $2000. Backwoods Home has a good but dated article about a first-hand experience with using a corn stove. :: Golden Grain Corn Stoves...
TreeHugger's "Old Faithful" Contest Update
by Sean Fisher, Cincinnati, Ohio on 10.11.05
With our "Old Faithful" contest getting underway, it is time to start sending us your "old faithful" items. We are looking for things that you have been able to maintain instead of replacing. Things you care about, things with character, things that have stood the test of time. This could be anything from a piece of furniture you have preserved to a piece of jewelry passed through your family tree. Whatever it is, it should be something special and timeless to you. If you think you have something that fits the bill, make sure you enter it as your "old faithful". All you need to enter is at least one picture (more is always better) and a short description of what your entry is and why you think it has lasted through the years. Remember, you need to email these to us at: contest [at] treehugger [dot] com in order for your entry to be eligible. Good luck!
...
Whole Foods Goes Biodiesel
by Michael Graham Richard, Ottawa, Canada on 10.11.05
Whole Foods ($4.5 billion in sales last year, biggest retailer of natural and organic food in the world) has made its Midwest distribution center switch to B20 (a blend of 20% biodiesel and 80% regular diesel). The delivery trucks based there service a 5 state area and burn 8,000 gallons of fuel every week. This is only a fraction of the Whole Foods fleet, but the use of biodiesel could eventually propagate to the whole company. "Because Whole Foods operates in a relatively decentralized manner, an initiative such as this starts out regionally and then can propagate, according to a company spokesperson. At least two other regions—the Southern Pacific and the Southwest—want to follow after the Midwest has completed the rollout to 100% usage. The Southern Pacific and Southwest regions have both agreed to have the Midwest provide a turnkey procedure for them to implement. Nationwide deployment may follow."
::Shifting gears—Whole Foods distribution center in Munster switching to biodiesel, via Green Car Congress...
Fight Global Warming and Improve Your Health
by Michael Graham Richard, Ottawa, Canada on 10.11.05
Our friends at Grist have an excellent post: it explains that the ways to fight pollution and global warming and the ways to fight heart disease (#1 cause of death in the US and probably in most western countries) and other health problems converge. Researchers are discovering that statistically your street address is a very good way to predict your level of risk to heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and so on. People who live in densely populated areas with sidewalks and neighborhood shops are in much better shape than people who live in the world of urban sprawl where you have to rely on cars. The conclusion is simple: We need to pay more attention to urban design and create "heart-friendly" communities... and these just happen to also be nature-friendly. No surprise there....
Starbucks Challenge: Fair Trade Coffee
by Kara DiCamillo, Newport, Rhode Island on 10.11.05
Did you know that you can walk into a Starbucks and ask “Could I get a cup of Fair Trade Coffee, please” and that they’ll actually give it to you? Well, that’s according to their policy anyway. We didn’t either. According to a report issued by Starbucks, “Fair Trade Certified coffee can be brewed by coffee press during store hours upon customer request.” Additionally, they say they are one of North America’s largest roasters and retailers of Fair Trade Certified coffee and they sell it around the world in 21 different countries. City Hippy and green LA girl have teamed together for their Starbucks Challenge and ask all of us to order a cup of Fair Trade joe next time we visit the popular coffee shop. They want to know what happened and if it was a difficult experience. Log on to the site and email or blog your feedback for others to read. Don't forget to pass along the word - the more people that join the challenge the more accurate it will be. When they’ve received a good amount of feedback, they plan to contact Starbucks to see what their response is and, if it is positive feedback...well, we'll wait to see what happens. Via ::City Hippy ::Starbucks’ Fair Trade Information (PDF format)...
Cribcandy: Add Some Rad to Your Pad
by Dominic Muren, Philadelphia, USA on 10.11.05
Our buddies at Cribcandy have gone live with their site. It's a great collection of all that is modern for your home, including some great green items like Recycled wine bottle vases, The Molo Softwall paper room divider, and these catchy bowls made from surplus raffle tickets. Their picks change daily, so there's bound to be something to catch your fancy. Even better, you can easily add bookmarks for each cool item, so you won't forget when paycheck time comes around. :: Cribcandy ...
"Earth to America": Comedy for the Planet
by Erin Courtenay - Madison, WI on 10.11.05
Everyone knows that environmentalists are humorless, painfully earnest Earth-warriors. So when I came across the announcement for the broadcast of "Earth to America!" I was obviously shocked - a stand-up comedy show devoted to raising awareness about environmental issues? Love it! The TBS show will be broadcast on Sunday, November 20 at 8/7c and features a knockout list including: Jack Black, Will Ferrell, Tom Hanks, Larry David, Steve Martin, Ray Romano, Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Martin Short, Leonardo DiCaprio, Cameron Diaz, Al Franken, Christopher Guest, and Dustin Hoffman. [note: I spent the last half-hour trying to overcome my TreeHugger-induced humor-impairment to end this post with a clever joke; no such luck. I guess if you want to get an eco-chuckle you'll have to tune in to "Earth to America!" or visit Grinning Planet]...
The 2006 Undersea Wall Calendar by Blissen
by Kara DiCamillo, Newport, Rhode Island on 10.11.05
Since it’s getting to be the end of the year (and the holidays are around the corner!) we thought it might be a good time to talk about not only a great gift idea, but maybe a little something for yourself as well. As you know from one of our previous posts, Blissen is a group of designers and artists who make one-of-a-kind products and their new 2006 Undersea Wall Calendar is just as fun as the Pixie Garden Perfect Pocket Wallet. The 12 months of salty enchantment are handmade and printed with soy-based inks on recycled cardstock. Whether you live by the water or not, it is truly a piece of art to treasure in your office or bedroom for a year to come. With only 1,000 made it's also an affordable gift at $16. ::Blissen...
Sustainably Acorn Squash
by John Laumer, Philadelphia on 10.11.05
King harvest is already here. Time to stock up on winter squash from that local supplier. Stored in a cooler or cardboard box, and kept in the garage or a shaded corner of the porch, they should be good 'til Christmas. A truism for the northern half of the US; we're not so sure about the south. A favorite acorn squash recipe is shown below the fold. May we recommend some fitting serving dishes? These would do very nicely. Or these as well. But in a pinch, cereal bowls would suffice....
Bamboo: Holding the World Together
by Collin Dunn, Corvallis, OR, USA on 10.11.05
Those of you who read TreeHugger regularly know we lust after many things bamboo. The ecological wondergrass's versatility lends itself well to our notion of modern sustainable lifestyles, and we're glad to see that it's use is continuing to spread. Several months ago, we reported on Bambus, a German project to capture 1000 uses for bamboo in pictures, and we're happy to report that they're moving right along. Added to the sizable list they had started are a bevy of bamboo projects and products, from structural to artistic to whimsical to silly. The gamut runs from beer (?!) to briefcases to scaffolding to flashlights, hammocks to machine oil to mouse pads to race cars. Is there anything bamboo can't do? We daresay no! So raise a glass of bamboo beer and toast the grass the holds the world together. ::Bambus...
Brazilian Real Bank Recycled Paper Policies
by Paula Alvarado, Buenos Aires on 10.11.05
It’s so encouraging when we find out about huge enterprises adopting green policies. Of course our actions as individuals are very important, but we have to accept large scale actions have an enormous impact.
So it was great news to find out about Brazilian Real Bank launching recycled paper check books to replace all their regular ones, and even cooler to know that this decision was communicated through an advertising campaign in recycled paper banners and magazine ads.
Their other actions include the replacement of white paper with recycled one in most of its offices’ supplies such as printer paper, electronic cashiers’ envelopes, bank resumes, internal communication, and flyers among others.
Processes using recycled paper in the bank already reached 70%. Only in the administrative sector of the bank. In 2004, 840 of the total 1720 tons of paper used in printers was recycled. And that’s not it. Of course, they also encourage not printing everything in order to avoid waste, so at the bottom of the e-mails they write “Before printing think if it’s really necessary”.::Banco Real
...
Natural High
by Warren McLaren, Sydney on 10.11.05
Everywhere one turns these days, up pops a company offering a “line of comfortable, stylish clothing made with natural hemp fibers”. Reminds me of the mid 90’s. Keeping fingers crossed that a few more survive the current surge of interest, than did back then. Our feature company for today then, is Natural High, who have as one of their aspirations “to continue to raise awareness regarding the importance of choosing sustainable, renewable, and biodegradable resources”. To this end they have a range of mens and womens yoga apparel made from hemp/cotton blends. Plus they also offer accessories, such as hemp/silk scarves and messenger bags of vegetal leather (Treetap), the likes of which we’ve noted before. ::Natural High...
Eco-Driving — Unfeel the Need for Speed
by Warren McLaren, Sydney on 10.11.05
The Netherlands Ministry of Spatial Planning, Housing and the Environment, who thankfully also go by the shorter name of ‘VROM’, publish a periodical newsletter. This time round they are highlighting Air Quality and in one story how this can be addressed via automotive transport and in particular the speed thereof. The VROM believe "a decrease in the general speed limit to 100 km/hr [from 120km/hr] would create a one mega-tonne reduction in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions per year". Rather than repackage their message on how to achieve this, we reckon it's succinct enough to give it you unedited: “Eco-Driving is a driving style designed to reduce fuel consumption, cut emissions and improve safety. By changing the way they drive, motorists can save up to 25% on fuel and fuel costs. In the original 15 European Union member states, a 10% decrease in consumption translates into 25 billion litres of fuel and 50 mega-tonnes carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.”...
Teak Sinks by William Garvey
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.10.05
Based in Devon, England, William Garvey makes sinks out of FSC-certified teak. People often ask if wooden bathroom sinks require a lot of maintenance. But apparently teak sinks are watertight, long lasting, very quiet and a longtime tradition in English butler's pantries. This sink is part of his Fusion line. He also makes baths and showers — see his full environmental statement here. :: William Garvey
...
Sustainable Luggage: Hemp Duffle Bag
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.10.05
This sustainable duffle bag is made with Romanian hemp by Ecolution. It has multiple compartments and is water resistant. It's available for $62.96 from Abundant Earth. They also offer a larger version with twice the capacity for $119.95. See also this hemp duffle bag from Global Exchange for $64....
Esther Derkx Improved Crockery
by Kyeann Sayer, Nomad on 10.10.05
You don't have to have gone the way of shabby chic to go vintage floral. Netherlander Esther Derkx gives yesteryear's dishware a spiffed up modern spin by screen printing images of dancers and athletes onto individual pieces. Each person in motion is chosen to complement the shape and design of the found crockery, resulting in a functional, one of a kind find. Though the screen printing requires quite a bit of embodied energy, my guess is that it's less than would be needed for an equally stylish brand new serving dish. In the States, her stuff is available at I.D. Chicago. Continue reading below to see more pics. :: Esther Derkx
...
Hemp and Tencel Blouse from Orvis
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.10.05
This woman is laughing despite being in a dungeon lit only by candles. Why? Perhaps because she's wearing a blouse made of hemp fiber and Tencel. The resulting blend is linen-like: the hemp adds strength and warmth, while Tencel adds uniformity and softness. Tencel it is also known as lyocell and is made out of wood pulp. The blouse is priced at $89 from Orvis.
...
Edun James Jacket from Saks Fifth Avenue
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.10.05
Edun is a eco-fashion line created by Ali Hewson and U2's Bono — see more information about the company in this previous post. Saks Fifth Avenue is now carrying their line of organic clothing (Nordstrom and Barneys New York do too). This James Jacket is tailored in brushed organic cotton with convertible notched collar. It's made in Portugal, and priced at $265. :: Saks Fifth Avenue ...
Water Girl Jackets For Fall: Affordable and Sustainable
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.10.05
Here are some Water Girl jackets for the fall weather. Water Girl clothing is produced by Patagonia, and this Cargo Jacket is made out 97% organic stretch cotton, and 3% spandex. It's priced at $47.95 from Sierra Trading Post. Also available is a Hoodie Jacket for $29.95. :: Sierra Trading Post...
Wood Pellet Stoves Are Hot
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10.10.05
Wood pellet stoves have become very popular this year, due to the fact that heating oil costs have risen 31% and natural gas is up 46%. Pellet stoves are small electric stoves that burn small pieces of recycled sawdust, that have been compressed into pellets. There are a number of advantages to using wood pellet stoves: they are extremely efficient, produce very little waste, and use inexpensive fuel. A 40-pound bag of pellets sells for less than five dollars, with discounts available for those who buy in bulk. ...
NORTHSOUTHEASTWEST – A 360° View of Climate Change.
by Petz Scholtus, Barcelona, Spain on 10.10.05
“Climate change already touches every corner of the planet and every aspect of people’s lives. As our global temperature increases, its impacts will become even more extreme. To illustrate this we commissioned 10 of the world’s top photographers to bring together, in a single volume, what is happening in diverse countries and conditions around the world. This is their record.”
These are the introductory words by Steve Howard, CEO of the Climate Group, which commissioned this amazing exhibition. Conceived as a way of raising awareness of how people’s lives are affected by climate change, NORTHSOUTHEASTWEST will travel all over the world during 2005 and 2006 in conjunction with the British Council’s Zero Carbon City campaign. This is a series of events highlighting the relationship between climate change and cities and the serious challenges it poses for people everywhere....
California Governor Signs 29 Environmental Bills.
by John Laumer, Philadelphia on 10.10.05
This development seems to indicate one or both of two things: perhaps there are two out-of-synch universes within the US; or we are witnessing the beginnings of a turning away from "deregulatory" politics. From the San Jose Mercury News of 10 October we learn: "In a burst of green penmanship, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed 29 environmental bills into law Thursday on a wide range of issues. One will require all new cars for sale in California [starting in 2009] to display stickers explaining how many tons of global warming-causing gases they emit". Another of the signed measures will force labeling on personal care products of potentially toxic components, something TreeHugger has reported on previously. Reportedly, the car labeling measure was opposed by most Republican lawmakers and the California Motor Car Dealers Association. Dealers must be fearful that consumer guilt will tip long term market interest, with motocycle and scooter sales replacing sales of large, highly profitable vehicles. TreeHuggers are "born to be wild". But can they come back from the future?
==== UPDATE FOLLOWS =======
Complete listing of personal care products found to contain the "Chemicals of Concern",w hich led to the bill just signed is found here....
Surfs up ... in Montreal
by Warren McLaren, Sydney on 10.10.05
With our tongue firmly in our cheek, we include this story under the category: eco travel. Well, think about it. No more surf safaris, belching fumes from a well worn van or pick-up, as one traipses up and down the coast in search of the perfect break. Here is a 6 foot (2m) wave, that's always there, where you can find it. On Montreal’s St. Lawrence River. Impressive for a city often cloaked in snow and hundreds of kilometres from coastal beaches. Not many cities can boast both cross country skiing and surfing within their metropolitan precincts. Who needs a car for weekends away, with all this adventure on your doorstep? River surfing was conceived by South African champion kayaker, Corran Addison. And as he puts it, “A 10-minute ride on a river wave equates to catching about 20 ocean waves, about a week's worth of beach time.” Apparently Australia, France, Germany, the US and Zambia are following in Canada’s wake. Via ::ABC Online and ::Seven Days....
Drapeta: Sexy Cool Shirts from NYC
by Collin Dunn, Corvallis, OR, USA on 10.10.05
Drapeta takes the idea (familiar to us at TreeHugger) that substance and style should go hand-in-hand, infuses it with NYC flavor, and prints it on organic cotton with all-natural screen printing ink. The result: high-style t-shirts, made from environmentally- and socially-conscious materials, whose designs walk their socio-politically charged walk and do a bit of subversive, irreverent finger-shaking. It's all about sophisticated self-expression; "cutting edge New York City style and a worldwide environmental awakening," according to owner/chief designer Zach Baker. The designs themselves reflect these tenets, drawing on influences as diverse as the city itself....
Cartoneros, Writers + Artists: Eloisa Cartonera Books
by Paula Alvarado, Buenos Aires on 10.10.05
You’ve all heard about Argentinean cartoneros, right? Cartoneros were born in the middle of the Argentinean crisis that exploded by 2001, when marginalized people started collecting cardboard to sell it to deposits for recycling. Sounds kind of good to us treehuggers, doesn’t it? Well, the truth is that it’s not really, as this work shouldn’t be done by poor people who live out of it, especially when lots of those people are children....
To Be Of Use: The Seven Seeds of Meaningful Work
by Warren McLaren, Sydney on 10.10.05
“What if you find yourself in a job with a useless company that makes useless or even harmful stuff, engaged in daily work that beaneath your potential, and beneath your own value system?” Then hopefully you’re out there, looking for employment, which might offer greater fulfillment. This book will lead you towards some of the elusive answers you're seeking. Very loosely paraphasing Dave Smith, author of the recently released To Be Of Use: The Seven Seeds of Meaningful Work”, he believes you should be looking for a workplace which:
• provides something of value, that we all need
• is in harmony with natural systems
• offers a tangible learning environment
• is locally based, encouraging the co-operation of good neighbours
• contributes to the good health of society and surrounding ecosystems
Just like his preacher father, Dave Smith, is forthrightly evangelical in proposing that the template for such workplaces is already with us, mirrored in small farm, organic agriculture. He espouses, if more work environments could take a cabbage leaf from the book of organic farming, we’d be happier and more fulfilled. ...
'Designing a Sustainable Future' Student Contest
by Warren McLaren, Sydney on 10.10.05
If your student card is still valid, and you can rustle up an ecodesign project in time to submit it to Belgium before 1 March 2006, you could be in the running for the first prize of €2,500 ($3,000 USD). The brief: “combine high-quality design with a distinct contribution to the goal of sustainable need-fulfilment. Priority value is assigned to environmental, economical and social benefits throughout the life cycle of the proposed design.” The project must be no more than 3 years old and can be submited by an individual student or student team, having been undertaken in the context of a Bachelor degree or Master studies. More info, including a useful list of resources and the judging criteria, can be found on the website. Part of the criteria is the usual environmental essentials, like using benign materials and minimising energy use, but what we particularly appreciated was the emphasis on social issues too. Points such as: encourage community, treat all people fairly, provide essential services and protect the mental well-being and physical health of all people involved. What a breath of fresh air to see those attributes in a design contest. Woo Hoo! ::Designing a Sustainable Future via Dexigner....
Solar Power Glass by XsunX
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10. 9.05
An oddly named company, XsunX, based in California, is manufacturing "Power Glass", a technology that allows glass windows to produce electricity via solar energy. It began shipping Power Glass products this May (more details here). The company believes the cells will operate at half the efficiency of conventional solar cells but may have one quarter the cost. :: XsunX
...
Truck Stop Electrification To Fight Pollution
by Michael Graham Richard, Ottawa, Canada on 10. 9.05
Sometimes the simplest things can make a big difference. The Climate Trust is funding a project in Oregon and Washington state to electrify truck stops so that when truckers stop for their 8-10 hours federally-mandated rest stop, they don't let their diesel engines idle overnight to power air-conditioning and other electrical devices. Frankly, we don't know why it took so long and why it is only happening in Oregon and Washington. This seems like a fairly basic thing, and I'm sure it would be cheaper for truckers to pay for a little electricity than for a night's worth of diesel fuel....
Hillary Clinton To Speak At Cleantech Forum
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10. 9.05
According to Clean Break, there's a rumor that Hillary Clinton will be making a keynote address at the Cleantech Venture Forum VIII in Washington, D.C., on October 25th. AOL founder Steve Case, who launched his own D.C.-based investment firm Revolution LLC in April, is also expected to attend the conference. Apparently, the recent attention Clean Tech is getting is due to the combination of financial and environmental opportunities of many emerging technologies and services. :: Clean Break ...
High-Wire Hemp Jacket by Patagonia
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10. 9.05
Over the years, Patagonia has been honing their use of eco-effective materials, and lately they've been incorporating even more recycled materials and hemp in their clothing. They just introduced this climber's jacket, which has an outer fabric made of a blend of 77% hemp and 23% PCR (post-consumer recycled) polyester. It's tough, but also soft and packable. The interior is made of polyester fleece scraps collected from the cutting-room floor and woven together to create insulation. The jacket is priced at $175. :: Patagonia...
Help for Humanity
by Warren McLaren, Sydney on 10. 9.05
Tsunami, hurricane, typhoon, wildfire, mudslide, flood, terrorism, war, earthquake. The news has not been very pleasant recently. Now we have 19,000 tragically dead in the Pakistan region and 2,000 in Guatemala, with both figures likely to rise. So many of our fellow planetary citizens have not only lost friends and family, but in a good deal of instances, also lost the resources to rebuild their lives. Writing about that next new gizmo seems not so appropriate at this time. Instead, went trawling through our archives in search of a little good news. Looking for the solutions that caring souls have created to ease the lot of displaced people. Many who had not much to begin with, and now have even less. Who, following Maslow’s hierarchy, are focussed purely on shelter, water and food....
Reclaimed Halloween Nesting Buckets
by Kyeann Sayer, Nomad on 10. 9.05
Carving a Jack-o'-lantern can be a good time. Or not. It helps to block out the pumpkin gut clean-up, sliced fingers, and that one person who inevitably shows up with the Martha Stewart-inspired stenciling kit. Then there's the ongoing fire hazard anxiety, worry about 8th graders kicking in your masterpiece's face, and the knowledge that waiting even one day too long on the stoop or window sill removal will mean opening up Jack's head to find that your candle has been sacrificed to the blackening webs of decomposition. Scary.
With these adorable little lanterns, made from reclaimed barn roof tin, there's no fuss. You get easy clean-up without sacrificing a toe nail's worth of Halloween ambiance. They come in sets of four. $48 :: Uncommon Goods...
Ethical Fashion Show 2005
by Erwan Pianezza, Locronan, Brittany on 10. 9.05
We missed it in 2004, today we report from Paris where the most avant-garde world textile designers gather for the weekend. Located in the heart of trendy "temple" quarter of Paris, the event promotes the work of designers that take their inspiration, materials, textiles from southern hemisphere countries -or for most them, designers who create, live and work in southern countries....
Just Hatched: The Whole Building Collective
by Lloyd Alter, Toronto on 10. 9.05
While attending a trade show we came upon a group of exhibitors looking a bit younger and more treehugger than the usual suspects, sitting in front of the vaguely hobbity facade that was their booth. Intrigued, we learned that they are the Whole Building Collective, which can "provide you with a full range of ecological building solutions." It turns out that the collective got together to build the booth and create a business after graduating from Fleming College's Sustainable building Design and Construction program- three weeks ago. Notwithstanding our bias against hobbity facades, this definitely deserved an interview....
Cool Roofs
by Justin Thomas, Virginia on 10. 9.05
The EPA says over 90% of the roofs in the United States are dark colored. A dark roof absorbs heat, leading to more need for cooling or air conditioning. The alternative is a "cool roof" — a roof that does two important things: it reflects solar energy, and it also radiates heat away after it is absorbed. The EPA has a list of cool roof products that will help keep your building's cooling costs under control. Of course, one other alternative is to use a "green roof", which is even better than a cool roof. Pictured here is San Jose's West Valley Library, which uses cool roof technology....
Recyclobile from Beeline Mid-century
by Kyeann Sayer, Nomad on 10. 9.05
Planeta.com’s ‘Emerging Industry Forum' on EcoTravel
by Warren McLaren, Sydney on 10. 9.05
We are always a bit wary of claims of being 'the first', but as Planeta.com was established back in 1994, maybe their tag as “the first website focusing on ecotourism and sustainable travel” might be legit. Nowadays the award winning site has over 10,000 pages. That diversity can make the site a little unwieldy to navigate at times. But we did manage to safely disembark at their page for an upcoming online forum “designed to provide professionally moderated, up-to-date results on small and medium enterprise (SME) priorities for funding and investment decisions for sustainable tourism in developing countries.” The forum will run 1-18 November 2005, with support from SNV Netherlands Development Organisation, Conservation International, USAID and the Development Gateway. Ecotravel enterprises operating in locales like Ecuador, Kenya, Mongolia and Peru are currently signed up to participate. It looks like a cost of $100 USD is incurred for full involvement. ::Planeta.com...
TreeHugger breaks it down for you in a series of in depth how-to articles that will help you green your life. No time like the present!
Here are a few recommended websites.
