SAVE EARTH SAVE LIFE

Earth Friendly Living Made Simple - By: Erwin Purtell

Although earth friendly living is a huge subject, we all have to start somewhere. Here are some things you can keep in mind next time you buy cleaners to use in your home.

Should you want to help make a contribution to the attempts to clean up the environment and supply a sustainable future for the generations to come, invest in earth friendly products. These products are engineered to do the same good job as other products without dangerous chemicals to do it. The basis for earth friendly living take away the poisons from as many aspects of life as possible, and replace them with biodegradable plant material that may not perturb the skin and eyes or poison the body.

For a product to be considered 100% earth friendly, there are a few factors that has got to be met.

First, the base ingredients must be derived from plants. Next, the plants must not come from a rainforest. It must accept fair trade rulings so the workers receive a fair wage for the work that they do.

Only then can the raw material be considered earth friendly and be used to make cleaners and other products that won't cause harm to the environment. Before you start shopping around, you'll need to choose just what kind products that you wish to compare. To begin with you may want to concentrate on selecting cleaning materials that cause no harm to the environment. If you're new to green living, these products significantly eliminate the exposure of threatening chemicals to the environment.

Here are a few examples of what this means in practice.

Petrol and caustics are removed from toilet supplies. Bleach and chlorine are removed from washing and kitchen supplies. There are hardwood cleaners that revive oils to the wood without the vicious chemicals. There are even products designed for your pets, so you can make sure that they aren't exposed to any vicious chemicals that adhere to their fur or can cause health problems.

The standard ingredients found in many products of this kind include corn, coconut, citrus, plant oil and herbs.

With increased awareness and more scientific research made available, more and more companies are jumping on the earth friendly living band wagon. It is simply put a very viable business move at the moment. Therefore you may also need to check each company's policies a little closer, before doing business with them. Every business that is serious about going green need to follow the latest scientific developments targeted at benefiting the environment closely.

When both consumers and businesses do this, we are doing what we can to support the sustainability of earth for future generations.
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Copenhagen Strategies for Saving Earth from Overheating - By: Klaus H Hemsath

The quickly advancing industrialization of China, India, and other countries is driven by the proliferation of fossil fuels combustion. Especially China depends heavily on indigenous coal reserves to power its astonishing economic ascendency.

Combustion of fossil fuels generates carbon dioxide, which subsequently accumulates irreversibly in the Earth's atmosphere. This accumulation is the manmade cause for the still modest warming of oceans and lands and is beginning to cause climate changes.

Extrapolation of data for population growth, individual energy consumption, and economic progress into the future shows that carbon dioxide emissions are bound to multiply enormously towards the second half of the twenty first century.

Politicians are comforted by the fact that the most threatening and most devastating increases of greenhouse gas emissions are still a few decades away. Unfortunately and imprudently they forget that installation of any countermeasures to first reduce and then halt global overheating will last a very, very long time.

Realistically, one can expect that world leaders will keep dickering for years and maybe decades before a workable plan for rescuing our planet from severe and irreversible devastation will emerge.

Any effective efforts to rescue our Earth must be based on a few, simple countermeasures. Implementation of the following measures is urgently needed.

- Complete and permanent cessation of all energy conversion processes based on fossil fuels combustion,

- Construction and start-up of renewable, emission free energy sources as replacements for fossil fuel based energy conversion facilities,

- Staged changeover of energy consumption to plentiful, affordable, and non-polluting energy sources in the form of electricity, transportation fuels, and heating gases,

- Continuing development of technologies for more efficiently converting renewable energies and for cleaning the Earth's atmosphere.

Developing missing energy technologies will take time. Rapid advances in information technologies have led to unrealistic expectations of time spans for other, unrelated, emerging technologies. Information technologies and energy technologies are diametrically opposed examples for exceptionally short and abnormally long development timelines.

Breadboards for testing a new phone or a new computer component can be completed within days and weeks. Designing and constructing pilot plants takes years and arriving at profitable production facilities my last more than one decade.

Exceptionally long development schedules have another, detrimental attribute. They invariably cause venture capital managers to deny development funding.

Free market economists have not yet fully acknowledged this systemic failure of the capitalistic system to generate early development funding for transformational technologies. Atomic energy utilization, nuclear fusion, space exploration, and novel energy supply technologies can only reach free markets after substantial government funding shortens timelines and reduces private financing risks.

The US must soon make a far-reaching decision. Is it going to create a mission oriented agency to become a world leader in the development and application of energy technologies or must the world wait for a country with a more agile government like China to take over this potentially highly profitable opportunity of developing exceptionally profitable energy technologies?

At present only three candidate countries seem to have the resources for developing critically needed energy conversion, energy storage, renewable energy production, and atmosphere restoration technologies. These countries are the US, the European Union, and China.

The USA is undoubtedly the most qualified based on past experience, scientific resources, and economic strength. The actual initiation and start-up costs for a mission oriented agency are very small when compared to the momentous financial aid dispensed by the US in 2008 to a wholly undeserving financial industry.

Better yet, such early funding for an independent agency will produce many benefits within a comparatively short period. Returns on investments will be huge.

What will be the early benefits of such an independent Energy Supply Development Agency?

After successful development and large scale demonstration of each of the previously listed, critically needed energy technologies, huge internal and international markets will open up. The US will have a chance to again assume its global, economic and technical leadership.

Such an agency can create millions of new manufacturing jobs in the US. New energy technologies can make the US independent of foreign petroleum imports. Exports of critical components for novel energy production and conversion facilities will strengthen the balance of payments and will facilitate the discharge of external debts. The USA can become again the undisputed leader in a world that will have a better chance of taking care of its growing population.

These opportunities may also create a better way to spread democracy. People will become anxious to follow successful examples of building wealth and democratic institutions.
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Build Your Own Renewable Energy Device For Under $200 - By: Bernard Ridal

Perhaps one of the most beneficial advantages of renewable energy is the fact that it gives you a lot of savings on your household bills! Many people have saved a lot of money using renewable energy devices such as solar or wind power devices. What sort of savings are we talking about here? Well... somewhere in the region of 80% savings! Many people would not argue that saving 80% on their electricity bills was not going to change their financial status dramatically... because it does!

Then there is the added benefit of knowing that using a renewable energy device like solar or wind power is actually contributing in a positive way to the environment. These devices are clean energy devices... meaning that they do not pollute the environment. Traditional methods of creating energy to power your home use fossil fuels such as fuel, gas and oil. These fuels are harmful to the environment and they are also running out. So its important to start using renewable energy sources for producing electricity for your home.

But one of the disadvantages of renewable energy is that its not exactly cheap to setup... this is especially true for professionally made systems! They can cost a lot of money... from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. So what are you supposed to do if you can't afford a system like this???

Build one!!!! Pure and simple... at first you may think... "your crazy!... I have no experience in building a renewable energy system like this..." But you don't need to have experience... you can purchase a guide that can show you exactly how to develop one of these systems yourself. These guides cost about $50 dollars to purchase and will show you everything step by step! Interested? take a look at the links below..

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How To Become More Environmentally Friendly - By: Mai Jernee

Here are a few tips on how to become more environmentally friendly which will work for most anyone. If you think that you can't do anything to help the environment because you don't have a lot of money to spend then you might want to consider focusing on small things that you can incorporate into your everyday life.
There are so many things that can be incorporated into our daily lives if we get into the habit of paying attention to all the little things that can be done. Think about easy ways that you can use less and reuse more. Here are a few suggestions.

Reducing use of paper products

Even though using less toilet paper is not an option you can still easily switch to recycled paper products and for cleaning and wiping up spills you can use old cloth towels which can be used and washed and hung outside to dry in the sun or on a rack inside.

Use less energy

Change to energy efficient light bulbs, put electrical devices that operate via remote on a power strip and when you're not using them shut them off.

Cut down on gasoline usage

Thinking of ways of how you can become more environmentally friendly is not that difficult. Ride your bike or walk if you're only going a short distance, carpool, ride local transportation if not all the time then maybe part of the time and here's a really easy one-when you're done with your cell phone charger unplug it or better yet invest in or make your own solar cell phone charger.

Use less water

Take shorter showers-reduce by 1 or 2 minutes, turn water off when brushing teeth, install an aerator on your showerhead, only do full loads of dishes and laundry and buy from farmers and ranchers that practice sustainable production techniques. When watering your lawn, don't over water and don't water the sidewalks.

Reuse More

Instead of always buying new, try buying lightly used which is cheaper and a perfect example of how to become more environmentally friendly. Furniture, clothing, grills, building materials-with a little thought many things can be reused.
When you go to the grocery store you can bring your own reusable bag to carry your groceries in and all your food scraps can easily be put into a compost pile to make nice rich compost for use in your garden to grow healthy food for you and your family.

All these things are not too difficult and they not only help the environment but conserve resources while at the same time saving you money. Sounds like a win-win to me.

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Green Cleaning Products - There Are No More Excuses - By: Dave Stratis

Scientists subscribe to the fact, green cleaning products are useful in your cleaning regimen since you do not need to disinfect your home each time you want to clean it.

Green cleaning products are designed to create the smallest impact possible on the environment and that are risk-free to humans, animals, and wildlife as possible. Many reasons arise to switch over to using green cleaning products yet the primary reason is that almost all cleansers loaded with chemicals which are harmful to the environment. Toxic cleansers are manufacturered by companies As a business! The truth is almost all family, corporate and government building cleaning is now more economical, as safe and as useful using alternative methods such as using eco-friendly green cleaning products.

When choosing a green cleaning product, you must decide whether the product can spoil your local environment, be detrimental to pets, wildlife or humans, understand the distance trucks had to drive the product to your town, and ifwhether package recycling is possible or left over product can be disposed of properly.

Recent research on chemical cleaners, coupled with society's worries about their use in schools, instigated the new york state legislature to pass a bill in april 2005 calling for all public and private schools to utilize green cleaning products. The bill was ratified by then-governor George Pataki and came into effect September 1, 2006. New York is the first American state to make mandatory use of green cleaning products in schools.

Testing and awareness organizations, such as Green Seal, have been instrumental in educating the public, government and corporations, in conjunction with elevating product standards as well as consumer trust. The growing demand for green cleaning products has led to much better consumer prices of these products, so there really is no excuse anymore as green cleaning Products are quite comparable to standard ones now.

Green cleaning products are usually more concentrated have less waste material in packaging, and are fashioned in the equivalent categories as traditional industrialized cleaners. Bona fide green cleaning products and services are created with you and your family in mind. Green companies are established under the assumption that the planet, the people, and industry should all profit with the planet and future generations the beneficiaries.
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2012 Dangerous Places on Earth + Safest Locations - By: Gerard Le Flamand

Before we start to try and understand where are the so called safe places when the catastrophe of 2012 hits our planet, we should first understand where the most dangerous places are and why. This will help us better understand how to prepare and what to expect.

Unfortunately with geophysical impact of the magnitude associated with a polar shift and its direct result, we shouldn't look in our own backyards or familiar places to withstand the disaster of such a global catastrophe.

Altitude is not always a solid solution because the crust of the Earth will move and redraw the world map as we know it. Lower lands will most likely be inundated completely and certain maintain ranges will crumble as others will rise. There will be tidal waves of about 2 kilometers (7000 feet) high wiping away any and all structures standing. Besides massive destruction, everything will be flooded which excludes surviving subterranean. Let's browse through major areas on Earth to understand what makes them so dangerous and exclude them for survival places in 2012.

Australia is no option since there will be a collapse of mountain ranges (which currently are over 2000 meters yet no longer when the Earth crust shift manifests). It will sink and be flooded in its totally offering very low survival chances. In addition, the high mountains are all natural parks on which you can't build bunkers or stockpile survival material. How long do you think you can survive without food, material, etc.? Papua New Guinea had a land bridge with Australia after the previous cataclysm.
Then the ice melted and the land bridge disappeared. When studying the polar shift map, we can conclude that Australia will be close to the new polar circle making it virtually impossible to survive due to its extreme cold weather, snow and ice.

Canada and the USA will be amongst the worst affected areas on Earth. As a result of the polar shift, Canada and a large part of the US will be under the pole circle (see figures).

Besides this, Yellowstone houses a supervolcano which will erupt and cause massive destruction through lava covering large areas prior to the area being covered under ice.
Nuclear reactors will burst and melt causing a true nuclear Armageddon (see image of nuclear plants that will be affected).

South America overall has little optimistic outlook since the Earth's axis in these parts of the world will undergo the biggest shift, resulting in phenomenal earthquakes and volcanic outbursts. So we will encounter a real doomsday scenario here. However it is possible to survive if you stay at least 100 kilometers from volcanoes at an altitude of at least 3,000 meters. Another positive element is that only few nuclear facilities exist throughout South America.

Europe isn't much better off than the US is with its extensive arsenal of nuclear facilities and several volcanoes. The climate will also shift dramatically so even if one would survive, it probably wouldn't be for a long time before food and extreme cold weather claims the lives of most survivors. The good news is that Europeans do have some areas that are safer than others and those are reachable by road unlike some other safe areas in lesser developed countries. One of those safe locations is the Sierra Nevada, the southern mountain range known today for its most southern ski point in Europe. Downsides are that most peaks and higher areas are either popular ski resorts which are very expensive to acquire larger pieces of land and for the majority of non-ski resort areas, the government declared it as nature preserves. This makes it hard to make the due preparations of infrastructure and stockpile reserves in advance.

Asia and in particular South East Asia will be impacted by major volcano eruptions and nuclear meltdowns. History shows us past lava coverage of entire countries which terminated all life in those areas. Tidal waves are another problem that will be hard to overcome.

This leaves us with Africa as this is the most stable continent and this has been proven throughout the existence of the planet. Just open a world atlas and find the evolution of the global landmasses. This will quickly teach you that this continent has shifted the least of all continents, which can easily be attributed to the low number of vault lines and volcanoes present. Yet not all Africa is safe ground for this coming cataclysm. Same characteristics need to be taken into consideration when finding your safe haven for 2012.

With very few volcanoes and only one nuclear reactor (Cape Town, South Africa), the quest is on to find the ideal location more than 2,300 meters above sea level. The biggest backdrop is the poorly developed infrastructure and also the presence of fatal diseases such as malaria and cholera. Most transportation of supplies and infrastructural elements will have to be done by road. Roads are in most places hardly developed and put extra stress on getting ready in time for the 2012 events. In some countries additional political instability or even civil wars can make it impossible to even acquire or develop land to be suitable for survival.

However nothing is impossible as long as you choose the right destination. Time is not on our side, which this time is more relevant than ever before. Currently we have a survival group that is working around the clock and against the clock to establish a sustainable survival scenario. We encourage you to take part in such activities if you are expecting to live on and help maintain the human race on this planet. Please do contact us and we'll be happy to direct you to the place to obtain all information.
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Want to build a greenhouse? - By: Stephen_Johnson

Ask any gardener if they'd like to have a greenhouse and you'll get a resounding “Yes!”. There are many factors that make having your own greenhouse an attractive proposition. A greenhouse allows you to grow out of season. You can use a greenhouse to grow plants that might not thrive in your climate. A home greenhouse can get your spring planting off to a super early start. It's easy to grow your veggies from seed, using heirloom and unusual varieties of plants you won't find at your local nursery. The cost of a ready made greenhouse can be substantial.

When you build a greenhouse, the savings are significant. When you start from seed, not only do you save money over buying starts from the nursery, but you can baby those plants and get a superior plant, as well as a wider choice in varieties. If you'd like to build a greenhouse to enjoy all the benefits a greenhouse offers, it's not so difficult as you might think. It's a step-by-step process almost anyone can do. It can be a weekend process, executed week by week. You'll also gain a lot of satisfaction when you build a greenhouse on your own.

Your first step is to identify your purpose. Your purpose will make a difference in what features you'll need to include in your plans. For example, if you want to raise orchids as a hobby, but you live in a cold climate, you'll need to include some specialized equipment to ensure proper humidity and heat. Maybe you live in a temperate zone, but want to start a little home business, raising starts from seed for local customers, supplying them with all the annuals and perennials they want for their own gardens. Perhaps you want to raise flowers to sell to florists. Each of these objectives requires different equipment. So, when you plan to build a greenhouse, step one is identifying your purpose.
Once you've established your purpose, do a little research online. Check the DIY gardening sites, as well as general garden websites for any number of 'how to build a greenhouse' plans. You'll find a variety of styles and sizes, with detailed plans and diagrams. Examine each of these closely to see which fit your objectives, and are within your skill set.

Take a look at some of the online book vendors too. There are some excellent and inexpensive books devoted entirely to how to build a greenhouse. Sunset Books puts out a book on building greenhouses which includes a number of styles, from a simple window greenhouse to a sophisticated greenhouse structure suited to growing those orchids in Minnesota. Each plan is accompanied with details on the types of special equipment you might need, including venting, fans and heating. These also tell you the advantages of glass versus plastic, the appropriate type of foundation and flooring, as well as how to build staggered benches to maximize your growing space.

Remember, too, if you want to build a greenhouse, the cost of the investigative stage is next to nothing. What have you got to lose? Just think of the rewards!

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Go Green And Save Money - By: corey wood

Go Green And Save Money

1. Lower your winter heating by at least one degree. If you can stand two or three degrees lower, then all the better. You will use less energy and still feel comfortable. Then in summer, let the air conditioning cool the house a little less. That's a great start in how to go green.
Everywhere you look these days it seems that the main message is, "go green and save money." This is an appealing message for most people as we are constantly warned of the dire consequences of global warming out of control. People want to do their bit to help save the planet, and if they can save money at the same time, then it just obviously makes sense all round.

You can go green and save money just about anywhere. Your home is probably the most obvious place to start, but you can also do wonders with your car, in the office, out shopping, traveling on vacation, and much more. The opportunities are almost endless; going green doesn't have to be more expensive, you can definitely go green and save money at the same time.
2. Set your washing machine to wash clothes in cold water. Modern cleaning powders don't need hot water, and heating the water is what consumes most of the energy that the washing machine uses.

Your home probably leaks heat out during the winter and leaks heat in during the summer. For this reason most of us have winter heaters and summer air conditioning units. This should be the first place you investigate of how to go green and save money. Are all your windows tight? Are the door seals tight too? This is where heat can leak out and make your electricity bills soar.

3. Don't use the dryer to dry your clothes! That's not how to go green. It uses far too much energy and it's expensive too. Hang your clothes out to dry. The air is great at drying clothes - your grandmother could have told you that.

If your house doesn't have good loft insulation heat will pour out in winter and pour in during the summer. Insulation is one of the best ways to go green and save money. Your walls can have their cavities filled with insulating foam as well, all keeping the heat inside in winter and outside in summer for more comfortable living.

4. Use less water. Check all faucets for leaks and fix any you find. Take shorter showers, don't bath, and consider getting a new toilet cistern that will use less than two gallons of water per flush. Standard cistern use some three and a half gallons. Using less water uses less energy and saves you money!
The water you use in the home is perhaps the easiest "go green and save money" source you have. Look for leaks first. Leaking faucets, even just the occasional drip, accounts for a lot of money wasted over time. You could waste as much as 140 gallons in a week!

Are your hot water pipes insulated? They should be if you aim to go green and save money. Insulated pipes let the hot water reach the faucets faster, thereby saving water, while you go green and save money too. Low flow toilets are another way to save water. You don't need to flush gallons of water away every time, just what you need.
5. Walk rather than drive for very short trips. Use a bicycle for moderate trips, and only use the car if you really have to. Gasoline is expensive and it pollutes the atmosphere. Save on burning it and you will save on your money too, as well as help the environment.

Edison was a genius, but his light bulb invention has been superceded by the new compact fluorescent light bulbs. These are bulbs that use a mere 25% of the energy that a traditional light bulb uses. They also last 10 times longer. Replace all your traditional bulbs for compact fluorescent light bulbs and instantly go green and save money!
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Tips to Save Energy to Go Green and Save the Earth - By: ashsmh

1. Cooking requires heat and energy, so conserve it to save money. Cover the cooking pan with a lid so that the heat doesn't escape. Water will boil around 5 of all oven heat is lost every time the door is opened. If you're trying to bake a Pizza, for example, and you keep opening the door to see how it's cooking, then you are cooking at 85% of the efficiency, at the sametime wasting energy and money!

3. STOP using commercial cleaning products in your kitchen or anywhere in your house. They are expensive to buy and expensive to produce. Their production is also harmful to the environment. The waste you release after cleaning is also harmful to the environment.

You can make your own cleaner from a mixture of vinegar, salt and baking soda. It will clean perfectly the same way as a commercial product, and it contains no toxic chemicals, thereby helping the environment. It will cost a great deal less too.

To put this into perspective. We dump some 35 million pounds of toxins down our drains every year, just from household and kitchen cleaning products alone. What kind of damage do you think that is doing to the environment? Well, you don't have to do it anymore.

Here's another simple recipe for an all-purpose cleaner, courtesy of

Greenpeace:

½ cup pure liquid soap

1 gallon hot water

¼ cup lemon juice

It's safe and effective, and costs very little.

4. You don't have to pre-heat your oven for every time your cook, unless you are baking bread and cake. Just put the dish into the oven and switch on, setting it to the right temperature. That way you are not wasting energy which is lost between the time it is pre-heated and you put in the preparation.

5. Cook once in a day instead of twice. This is a great way to save all round. If your oven can hold two chicken pieces, then why not cook two instead of one. Two chickens will cook in about the same amount of time that one will. Now, do the math... You will cut your cooking time in half, thereby saving electricity - and guess what happens to all the money saved! Yep, it stays right in your pocket. This way you have more time for other activities. The time saved on cooking the second time can be used better elsewhere. Remember, it doesn't have to be just chickens. It can turkeys, beef, etc. And I surely don't have to mention the environmental benefits.

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Living The Green Energy Home Dream - By: Michael Skinner

With all the advances in green energy technology, it is easier than ever to start converting your home into a green energy home. A green energy home utilizes renewable resources to provide electricity, hot water, heat and peace of mind.

There are several ways to implement your green energy home plan. The first is solar energy. In a green energy home you can install solar hot water panels which heat and store water for use and you can install solar panels, which use photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight into electricity. These systems can be pricing if purchasing them and having them installed by a professional, but there are many great resources available to build your own solar panels and solar hot water systems that can reduce the cost greatly.

If you are just building your home, a great way to make it a green energy home is to implement passive solar design during construction. This means taking advantage of south facing sides of the house for heating and cooling. By installing lots of highly efficient windows and heat retaining bricks and stone on your south facing areas, you are taking advantage of passive solar techniques to develop your green energy home.

Another addition to the green energy home would be a windmill. Windmills are used to generate electricity from the renewable resource wind. Windmills can be installed on rooftops or in yards and offer pollution free electric. Windmills can be purchased from retailers or there are a wide variety of affordable kits available for the motivated do-it-yourselfers to handle the implementation of their own green energy home plans.

If you have a stream on your property, you may also add to the efficiency of your green energy home with hydroelectric power. This is also a great pollution free option that is easy to maintain and works as long as there is water available.

The ultimate green energy home would combine all of these resources. By using wind, water and solar to generate electricity you are looking not only at huge savings and possible profits from your electricity usage, but you would truly be green as each of these options contributes little to global warming. To further combine passive solar design and solar hot water systems, you are reducing your energy needs exponentially and truly living the dream of going green.

http://madebusiness.com/BuildYourOwnEnergy/

Many if not all of these examples can be implemented in sections so as to keep cost to a minimum while you build your green energy system. The example below is given for an average daily AC load of 3526.75 wt-hr/day.

Don't let these numbers scare you, as DIY systems provide a calculation sheet to help you figure your personal needs.

Average Battery Peak Sun Array Peak
Amp-Hrs/Day ÷ Effiency ÷ Hrs/Day = Amps
81.64 ÷ 0.80 ÷ 4.10 = 24.89

Array Peak Peak Amps/ Modules Module Short
Amps ÷ Module ÷ in Parallel Circuit Current
24.89 ÷ 5.02 ÷ 5.0 = 5.34

DC Voltage Nominal Module Modules in Modules in Total
System ÷ Voltage ÷ Series Parallel Modules
48.00 ÷ 12 = 4.0 x 5.00 = 20.00

As you can see the total modules required to accommodate this system is 20. But you're not required to build all 20 of them at once, You can build them and implement them individually at your own pace, thus reducing your dependency on the Electric Company gradually.

A green energy home doesn't require more maintenance than traditional homes. Solar technologies require little to no maintenance and wind and water turbines require only regular oiling for peak performance. There is no better time to create your green energy home and start living your dreams in green.

http://madebusiness.com/BuildYourOwnEnergy/

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Learn Five Things You Did Not Know About Plants and Imorove Your Life Immediately - By: Teach Tech45

You may be surprised to learn some fascinating facts about plants. Plants are so common that they are often taken for granted. However, their importance to all life on this planet cannot be understated. You may have glossed over the chapter on plants in your Environmental Studies text in elementary school with perhaps somewhat of a passé attitude toward the process of photosynthesis and related topics, but it's time to take another look. Indulge me here for the remainder of these paragraphs. I promise, you won't be disappointed. You may be surprised to learn some fascinated facts about these under-valued organic wonders. Who knows, brings some of this information up at your next social function and you may be the life of the party.

The greatest varieties of plants are called "autotrophs. Autotrophs are simply organisms that obtain energy from sunlight or organisms that make their own food. The process they use to accomplish this is called photosynthesis. Photosynthesis occurs the chloroplasts of plants. A chloroplast is a specialized component of certain cells that contains chlorophyll and is responsible for photosynthesis. The process of photosynthesis is defined as a process in which organisms, with the aid of chlorophyll (green plant enzyme), convert carbon dioxide and inorganic substances into oxygen and additional plant material, using sunlight for energy. When you think about it, the action converting carbon dioxide into oxygen is quite amazing. All life on this planet needs oxygen to sustain itself. Without the life giving by-products of photosynthesis carried out by all green plats, this would not be possible. In a plant the sugar and starches it needs to survive comes from sunlight.

Another significant aspect of plants is that they are constantly shedding leaves and bark which then mix with the waste of living forest animals and the carcasses of dead ones to form a rich layer of humus on the forest floor. All the gardeners reading this will know that humus is the brown or black organic part of the soil resulting from the partial decay of leaves and other matter. This rich black soil is best for growing thing and the organic compounds are extremely beneficial. Plants are very shade tolerant but growth is slower in dense shade. This means that a number of conditions must come together ecologically in order for plants to thrive so they can reduce carbon dioxide and release oxygen which we all need to survive. Collective humanity needs to that their colloquial "lucky stars" that plants do what they do.

You may not have thought about it, but Plants are cost effective in comparison to complex air conditioning filter systems and provide a means for discreet implementation of a solution to an environmental problem. Because, given the right conditions plant growth are sustainable and renewable, plants are a great means providing an environmental filtering system. Nature's way is always better than anything humanity can devise. It is much more efficient, does not break down and need repair like anything mechanical and is much more cost effective.

One example of a very important plant for more than just the benefits described above is aloe. Aloe is a softer product with bactericide properties, and even broad bean stem is strongly anti-fungal. It is used externally to treat a number of skin irritations. It has antiseptic and antibiotic properties that make it highly valuable in treating cuts and abrasions. This amazing plant is also used primarily as a beverage in different parts of the world. Aloe is effective for many inflammatory conditions of the digestive system and other organs. The healing properties of this plant have long been documented. Additionally, aloe an effective treatment for wounds, eczema, ringworm and poison oak and poison ivy rashes. Post pregnant woman can also be thankful for the aloe plant because it is one of the main ingredients in products to treat stretch marks, wrinkled skin and pigmentation.

Plants also play a substantial role in many economies. In Vietnam for example, the rural economy is provided with basic needs of food, fuel and shelter. Australian tree species, notably the acacias, casuarinas and eucalypts have become a common feature of Vietnam's rural landscape and provide considerable economic, social and environmental benefits.

In contrast to plants, weeds harm our environment significantly. Weeds degrade natural environments. This occurs in all areas from urban bush land to National Parks and wilderness areas by competing with and displacing native vegetation and indirectly affecting the fauna of invaded ecosystems by altering habitat opportunities. Fauna is all of the animal life of any particular region or time. The corresponding term for plants is flora. Weeds can be significant at a property, local, regional, state and/or national level based on their impact or potential impact.

It is clear that plants are an important natural resource that need to be protected, cared for, nurtured and replenished in a timely fashion if we are to survive and thrive, we are dependant on these wonderful organisms which are themselves living things that need to be treated with respect and not removed indiscriminately with little thought to the environment, micro and macro ecosystems and humanity in general. That is why, around the world specialized systems are being developed to help further this task. One example is a screen house that is fitted with interior, retractable, aluminised curtains at varying degrees of light emission, a fully automated irrigation system, a contained drainage system and air extraction fans. Such technologies in the care and preservation of plants abound. This is only one example.

So plants not only obtain their own foot using photosynthesis, but they also provide oxygen that we all need to survive. They provide filtering systems and shelter and they also contribute to the production of mineral and nutrient rich soil, which is need in agriculture and food production and growth in general. Plants are also essential in the economy and have healing and regenerative processes as has been seen. After reading this, perhaps you won't take plants, "nature's wonder" for granted. Clearly more than five things you didn't know about plants are outlined here, but this is far too important a subject to shorten or condense. It is hoped you have leaned something that will help you today. You can find information about this and other subjects and the websites given at the bottom of this article.

The miraculous properties of a vast variety of flora make our world a better place, contribute significantly to all life and exhibit healing and restorative elements, but they also make our world a much brighter and more beautiful place. The colours and textures are so amazing and varied. Bright vibrant colours and a panorama on a tropic rain forest, for example, make plants truly remarkable.

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Environmentally Friendly & Affordable Home Improvements - By: Chris Plumb

It is a fact that the success of recycling is of utmost importance to our society and to make it really work, everyone needs to participate and do their bit. With kerbside recycling schemes being rolled-out across the UK, we are all becoming more aware of the need to partake in the three ‘R’s: Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

When buying new living room furniture, whether it is cheap or expensive, the wood needs to come from somewhere and more likely than not it has to be shipped. Which not only increases our carbon footprint through transportation and declining trees to convert carbon dioxide into oxygen but also contributes to environmental problems caused by the effects of deforestation.

So then what do we do with the old furniture? We throw it out of course!

Mountains of waste are being dumped in landfills every year. Though we are all pretty well educated in the processes of recycling small items like aluminium, glass, and paper, how many of us realise just how easy it is to recycle larger items – like a sofa or armchair.

Of course not everyone is wholly concerned with environmental issues, cost can also be a contributing factor.

Many of us would like to change our homes the same way we change our seasonal wardrobes, but few of us can actually afford to. A recent survey (Carried out by Koan Ltd) to cast light on people’s interior tastes revealed that 60% of people could only afford to redecorate their homes every 2-5 years, even though the same percentage said that their tastes actually changed from year to year.

Luckily now, not only is there a more affordable, stylish and easy solution to instantly change the look of your home, but there is an environmentally friendly one too, enabling you to ‘reduce, reuse and recycle’. Rather than spending a fortune on this season’s fleetingly fashionable designs, or putting up with a shameful suite, you can give your piece of furniture a stunning new look using a unique service: Made-to-Measure Furniture Covers.

What also came out in the survey was peoples perceptions of loose covers. Many still think that ill-fitting floral stretchy fabric only your Gran used to own is all you can achieve. Made to Measure Loose Covers have come along way since the mid-fifties, there are now many modern and contemporary designs in beautiful chenille and cotton fabrics to update any style of interior decor.

There are even now covers for leather furniture that can mimic the new leather and luxury chenille combination designs coming from all the major furniture retailers, so your tired leather furniture can be transformed into the cutting edge looks of today.

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Is humanity on the verge of extinction? - By: Red.eVolution

On history channel I watched recently a program regarding big disasters plaguing our planet Earth. Human races been wiped out from Earth's face by different cataclysmic scenarios such as asteroids, comets, gamma ray bursts, and also after recalling all those movies portraying Earth on the verge of extinction by deceases, asteroid impacts, atomic disasters, and by the "danger of global warming". All these terrifying and apocalyptic scenarios, have puzzled me, leaving me with many questions:

All these "Mega Disasters" are, a real scenario on humans path evolution? Meteors, comets, and asteroids can they really destroy human civilizations the same way they wipe out the dinosaurs? Has humanity a long overdue with fate, for a total cataclysmic disaster? And in the end, can humanity survive and recover from it? I'll try to summarize all my answers in one block.

Asteroids, comets, prophets of doom.

Hundreds of thousands of asteroids have been discovered within the solar system every month. The Earth has gone through periods of abrupt and catastrophic change, some due to the impact of large asteroids and comets on the planet. Until recently dinosaurs were considered to have died off gradually. The recent discovery of the impact from a large asteroid or comet on the Yucatan peninsula, had scientists think its size and timing make it, the culprit that would explain the demise of the dinosaurs. Earth been plagued by such events since is creation, is well known. So that in the end humanity is indeed, steering on the path of such cataclysmic scenarios in the near future. Can we avoid it? That depends on our technology.

Gamma ray bursts.

Gamma ray bursts, something which I learned from the history channel. From many disasters impelling on us, this one seems that has came out from a science fiction movie, but the threat is real, even if it has a very low probability to ever happened is another threat to add in the cataclysmic events list. And if "I hope in the most far future possible" this will ever happen, there is any chance of survival? No, there is none! Supernova'gamma-ray bursts announce the demise of the most massive stars in the universe, and hypothetically if Earth was on any of these path, for our world would be the end.

Contagious diseases.

Avian Infectious Diseases, is another emerging infectious disease, which threats humanity survival. Many are concerned that the Bird flu virus will mutate and trigger a human pandemic. Will this decease spreading world-wide like a fire, cause human populations to decline dramatically, or all together end human civilization as we know? Contagious diseases like the bubonic plague which spread in Europe in the 1347s, and causing after five years, 25 million of dead people "one-third of Europe's population". There were three major epidemics - in the 6th, 14th, and 17th centuries, the total death toll was 137 million victims. These diseases can take their toll of human lives, but in the end we'll survive them.

Atomic disasters.

Atomic disasters such as nuclear melt-downs, or a nuclear wars.Right now, looks like the big players on the "nuclear war" contest, have realized the impossibility to win an atomic war, and "wishfully" they are refraining themselves from ever actuate this threat.

Global warming.

Adding one more at the list is global warming. Global warming is not the least of all threats to be dismissed. I believe global warming is one serious threat to be reckoned with in the near future, and dealing with it in time, may be one solution.

All these disasters or near disasters will in the end have an impact in the human evolution and history for sure. We can deal with some of them right now, by modifying our own behaviors, others are in God's hands.

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Micro-Environments - What The Plant Doctor Ordered - By: bentan

Plant culture aims to create the best growing conditions for crops. In order to achieve the best results farmers make small-scale changes to the growing conditions for plants.


Microclimates

Small-scale changes create modified climates called micro-climates or modified environments called micro-environments. Features such as temperature, humidity, moisture levels, sunlight and soil acidity can all be changed resulting in better growing conditions for plants.

Plant nursery operators regularly advise customers about the best way to look after a plant. For example, the location and type of soil will have a big influence on the level of success a gardener will achieve with any particular plant. In essence, gardeners are being advised on how to create the best microenvironment for that plant.

Keeping in mind the optimum requirements for a crop, the next challenge comes when providing the required conditions in a practical way. Matching the correct growing season when planting will help to provide the broad climatic needs for the plant.


Wind, Sunlight, Soil ...

Local conditions can then be modified further by making changes to factors such as exposure to wind, sunlight and humidity. Farm structures such as buildings will provide a range of environments allowing a wider range of plants to be grown successfully.

North facing walls in the southern hemisphere trap more sunlight and heat creating a warmer microclimate

Concrete or brick walls and paths will also radiate heat at night keeping a frost prone area warmer. Shelter spots behind walls and under trees will provide protection from excess heat in summer and suit plants requiring cooler conditions. The shape and density of windbreaks will also change the way in which wind moves around these structures. A solid brick wall for example will cause wind to swirl, while a more open structure composed of shade cloth or plant vegetation will provide a more gentle flow of air.


Frost Damage

Planting on hillsides will allow for an increase or decrease in the level of sunlight received depending on the aspect or direction chosen.

Hillside plantings generally have a reduced incidence of frost during cold weather. Locations near the sea or lakes will also have a reduced risk of frost damage due to the moderating influence of water on temperature.

Inland locations will usually have a wider range of temperature changes between day and night and may need more changes to the microenvironment for success.


Soil microenvironments

Soil cultivation and general cultural activities such as the application of organic matter, lime and gypsum will improve soils in relation the specified crop. Deep ripping of soil before planting trees will also break up compacted soils and rock layers allowing improved penetration of water and plant roots. These activities usually result in improvements to the soil microenvironment and lead to better plant growth.

Water and irrigation management, often necessary for summer crops, modifies levels of moisture and air in soil. Should there be an excess of moisture in winter provisions for drainage may be required modifications in order to prevent soil waterlogging and damage to plant roots.


Microenvironment And Hobby Farming

The range of modifications is endless and often takes time to achieve. Getting the right mix of microenvironments requires experience and patience. There is always a level of uncertainty regarding weather and climate, disasters will always occur, but good management can reduce these risks.

Getting the microenvironment right is well worth the effort. You will be rewarded with a wider range of healthy plants that may not normally grow in your area.



This article is taken from Alf's Hobby farm site at farmforfun.com. Alf also writes in details on Greenhouse and Small Farm Irrigation.

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Getting All Set for an Environmentally Friendly Shift - By: Joshua Susse

At the time of getting all set to move from one home to another, it is necessary to think about the effect your relocating practices can have on the natural world. When you begin sorting out your effects to make up your mind about those things you want to take with you and those things you no longer want, be sure that you make environmentally responsible choices.

Don't Throw Away-Recycle
You do not have to collect things you do not want just to avoid having a destructive effect on the natural world. However you ought to deal with such things in a responsible manner. Don't discard things that you do not want any more if they can be recycled. For instance, do not discard old periodicals and newspapers that you do not want to shift. These things can simply be recycled, and getting rid of them properly can have a positive effect on the natural world.

Choose a Relocator who is Concerned about the Ecosystem
Choose a mover who is concerned about the natural world. For instance, select a mover who is willing to use used boxes instead of using only new boxes to move your objects. You can be positive that this type of a mover who takes care to care for the natural world is one who is interested in the ecological effect of the removalist business.

Reuse Packing Boxes and Materials
Boxes might seem like a minor thing, but recycling boxes from one move to another can have a significant effect on the natural world. In nearly all instances, second-hand boxes work just as well as new boxes. The smaller quantity of boxes are sold, the fewer need to be made, and the more trees can be saved. In addition, using boxes many times keeps them out of the landfills.

You can also recycle packing materials. Try to borrow packing materials from neighbours, co-workers and/or associates. Or else, ask your mover for old packing materials. An environmentally conscious mover ought to be able to offer you with old packing materials. After your move, rather than throwing away the packing materials that you no longer require, you could pass it on to your mover, to pass on to his or her next client.

Is the Relocator's Vehicle Ecology Friendly?
While you are searching for an environmentally conscious mover, you will also want to take into consideration the types of vans he or she uses to move customers. A mover who makes use of fuel-efficient vehicles or ethanol-powered relocating trucks can make a big difference when it comes to fuel conservation and carbon emissions.

Something else you may want to take into consideration with your mover's vehicle is whether or not it is equipped with a "hopper stopper." This instrument is a tool for cautioning kangaroos and other wildlife to keep away from the path of the relocating vehicles. It gives off a sound that is not audible to people, but that can keep animals from putting themselves in danger when the vehicles are on the move. Shifters spend a vast number of hours on the road, and having a "hopper stopper" is an excellent way to protect wildlife in the area.

Protect the Ecosystem with an Environmentally Friendly Relocation
Let your mover know that you would like to have an environmentally friendly shift. Before you select a mover ascertain whether they follow environmentally friendly practices. You have the greatest possibility of having an environmentally friendly move, if both you and your mover have a mutual comprehension of the importance of "green" living. Remember that we can all make a difference when it comes to preserving our natural world.

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Avoiding Damaging Impacts on Nature - By: Joshua Susse

If one is not careful, even the straightforward act of moving from one house to another can have a destructive bearing on nature. You may just be moving your things from one house to another, but elements like your choice of recycling boxes and the packaging materials used can adversely affect nature. While getting ready to relocate, you should try to make environmentally responsible choices.

Recycle Unwanted Odds and Ends
Dispose of objects you do not want in a responsible manner. Recycling any unwanted objects is much better for nature than throwing such objects away. For example, you can without any difficulty recycle old periodicals and tabloids that you do not want to take with you to your new house. By recycling, and getting rid of them properly you can create a positive bearing on nature.

Employ an Environmentally Conscious Relocator
When you select a removals person to assist with your packing and relocation, choose a proficient professional who is concerned about nature and is proactive about using environmentally sound transporting systems. For example, a removals person who encourages the use of used boxes as opposed to insisting that each customer buy new boxes is a removalist who is knowledgeable about the ecological bearing of the shifting business.

Reuse Packing Boxes and Packing Materials
If you have shifted in the past, you can make use of the formerly used boxes in place of buying new packing boxes. If you can reuse your packing boxes from one relocation to another, you need not buy new boxes. Hence, smaller quantity of boxes are sold. If smaller quantity of boxes are sold, smaller quantity of boxes need to be made, and greater quantity of trees can be saved. In addition, by recycling the boxes, you keep them away from the landfills. This can have a noticeable bearing on nature.

The manner in which you or your removals person packs the objects that you are planning to relocate can additionally have a positive bearing on nature. Similar to boxes, packing materials can also be used numerous times. Find out from your removals person if he or she can get you recycled packing materials, or try to acquire packing materials that your friends, neighbours, or even associates have made use of for their recent relocations. An environmentally conscious removals person will be happy to take the materials from you after your move, to pass on to his or her next customer.

Take a Look at the Relocator's Vehicle
When you're looking for an environmentally conscious removals person, you will also want to keep in mind the types of vehicles he or she uses to relocate customers. A removals person who uses ecologically aware vehicles or ethanol-powered transporting trucks can make a considerable difference when it comes to fuel conservation and carbon emissions.

Also, check whether the removals person's vehicle is equipped with a "hopper stopper." A good number of road accidents happen when wild animals from the roadsides unanticipatedly step into the path of the approaching vehicle. A "hopper stopper" produces a sound that is inaudible to humans but is audible to wild animals. When they hear this sound, the kangaroos and other wild animals tend to freeze and try to work out if the sound is of any danger to them. Hence, they stay away from the path of the transporting vehicles. Shifters spend a number of hours on the road, and if they have a "hopper stopper", it will help to preserve wild animals in the area.

Protect Nature with an Environmentally Friendly Move
Let your removals person know that you want to have an eco-friendly relocation. Before you choose a removals person establish whether they follow eco-friendly systems. You have the greatest prospect of experiencing an eco-friendly move, if both you and your removals person have a mutual understanding of the importance of eco-friendly living. Remember that we can all make a difference when it comes to preserving our natural environment.

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Climate Change - By: Deven

Climate Change

Now-a-days we listen Climate Change more often than before. Climate change is a global phenomenon and the term “Climate Change” is indeed a straightforward expression for such a complex subject. In fact, climate change has more than we can comprehend from this phrase and that is why it is quite essential to go at defining climate change in today’s scenario. In the present glossary of researchers and scientists, climate modification as a term is no longer in use and effect. The reason behind this is that we have come to realize the effect of the changes we make to our environment will eventually increase the temperature in many parts of the world, but at the same time will also be decrease in temperature for few parts of the planet. This however, creates a general imbalance in the climate of the world which in turn leads us to the phrase, “Climate Change.”

While wondering the effects of the climate change, the things you know of as climate modification is actually referred to as global a global phenomenon of climate change. However, with all the details and statistics we have in hand at present, we can definitely conclude that the world is unquestionably warming with the temperatures rising like never before. Climate change is a global problem with many natural disasters started taking shape; the general awareness of this factor is really low. For the better understanding of the issues associated with the climate change, we require a simple definition for climate change in relation to the warming of the planet. And this definition needs to be the one that brings us the essence of this problem without compromising the simplicities. However, the easiest and most precise definition is that climate change is the effect greenhouse gases have on the earth’s overall climate. Greenhouse gases include carbon dioxide and methane, but are not limited to these two.

While learning more about climate change, we need to understand few important facts associated with it. The first fact is that climate change is both a natural phenomena and one catalyzed by us. For instance, greenhouse gases are a natural part of the biosphere and would exist if man did not. In fact, these gases are a vital component to the existence of life on this planet. It is due to the existence of the greenhouse gases, the temperature on planet earth does not average zero degrees! These naturally occurring gases help to keep the temperature at a desirable 59 degrees. But, the climate change, which is due to the greenhouse gases, is not indeed natural. In fact, the problem we are facing is the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. These gases act as thermal blankets for the atmosphere. The more gas in the atmosphere, the thicker the blanket and the less heat escapes from earth. In the last 80years, we have been releasing this gases into our atmosphere and thus helping them to form a blanket. On the other hand, we are reducing forests around the planet, which are the natural plant collection that absorb greenhouse gases. This double whammy is starting to show negative results, the increased heating of our world, and thus the beginning of the dreaded climate change.

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"Can I Save the World?" Easy Solutions to Global Warming at our Fingertips - By: Helena Jackson

With so much information out there about global warming and the effects that are causing natural disasters, is there anything we as individuals can do to make a difference? Yep! You don't need to move mountains, but a small pebble can really make ripples that can create positive changes world wide. Here's a few "pebbles" you can use today!

We all feel we have a purpose in life. As more of us become aware of the damaging effects of global warming, we are also concerned about practical solutions to the problem. Most importantly, how can we fit in as part of the solution, instead of the problem?

Unfortunately, many of us become overwhelmed when we watch the ever-increasing natural disasters and it starts to feel like the world is crashing around us. I remember watching the plane hit the World Trade Center over and over and over again. I remember being completely paralyzed to the television. Sleep was optional, but only in between important news breaks. I felt helpless. I wanted to understand the reasoning behind the attacks to ease my fears of possible future attacks, but I mainly wanted a sense of control back into my life.

I do not like to focus on the doom of global warming because that's not the best mindset for me to find solutions and implement actions. I truly believe we all can make a difference in our lives, in the lives of our families, friends and community. I also am a firm believer that every single action taken produces a ripple effect throughout the world. When we take a simple action such as changing a light bulb to a compact fluorescent bulb, a positive motion is set in place.

Just for fun, let's see what can happen: (this will show how the action affects others)

o That old bulb in the living finally goes out. You go to your local hardware store and see miles of shelves of light bulbs! OY! (production of CFL bulbs)

o Someone comes over to help and maybe suggest a CFL. "A what?" you ask. The assistant tells you that even though the bulb is more expensive than a basic tungsten bulb, it will last years longer, it will not burn hot, uses way less energy, thus saving you money every month AND prevents the release of more than 450 pounds of emission from a power plant normally used to light the old style bulbs into the air! (increased sales and more potential advertisement of a green product, decreased amount of carbons released into the atmosphere)

o You read the advertisement and glimpse the familiar EnergyStar sign. So, you think, "Why not!" (increased awareness of a great program)

o You go home and your kids ask you about the funny looking bulb. (educates the kids and tell their friends how smart their parents are!)

o Your friends come over for dinner and recognize the bulb, but never really considered buying one until now. (increased awareness through word-of mouth [extremely powerful!!!] and more potential sales, advertisement, decreased emissions)

o You get the electric bill the next month and notice you really did use less electricity AND saved a little money. ($$$)

o You go to buy more CFL bulbs and realize the prices dropped a bit due to increased sales! (supply and demand of a product that improves our world)

That's just for changing one bulb! Just one action really can make an impact. Just because we do not always see the immediate results don't mean they aren't there!

So what are the best solutions of global warming? Can we help save the world? Yep. I would first suggest do whatever feels right for you. The level of comfort will be different for everyone. To me, it can be summed up as: AWARENESS and ACTION

AWARENESS

My first exposure to environmental issues came about while working at Home Depot. I watch as a person chained himself to our lumber shelves and awaited the local police. His actions, maybe a bit extreme to some, created awareness to the customers, Home Depot and the media. Many of those same actions ultimately changed the way Home Depot purchased and sold lumber.

For me, my level of comfort was turning off the lights. The more I learned, the more I did to help the environment. Learning about basic, easy-to-do home repairs really made a difference and increased my confidence as well as the confidence of my customers.

Now, years later, I must say living in Thailand has taught me a lot about saving energy as well as joining together for what you believe in. I've seen Thais go to the employment office and march because wages were too low. I have witnessed the ousting of a political figure because the Thais felt betrayed.

I have greater respect for Thais and for others I've met from different countries. Their views and actions have taught me so much about global warming. I also have greater appreciation for our abilities as Americans to make changes worldwide.

So to further answer people's question - "What are the best solutions to global warming?" My suggestions are all easy to do, but the main factor lies with what is comfortable for you. If I am given a great idea, but is too time-intensive, I probably won't do it. But if it's as easy as hitting the enter key, now you got my attention!

Ok. We are much more aware of what's going on. We understand we have a problem. Now what?

ACTION

I started with small steps. As I learned more, I found the bigger steps easier than I realized. I discussed my views with others and listened to their ideas.

My friends in Alabama recently installed solar heaters and a tankless water heater. Businesses are seeing the advantages of doing the right thing and stepping up their environmental cleaning efforts People from all walks of life have created petitions requesting a more proactive government. Even the 2008 Presidential Candidates are listening. Many are now including global warming as their primary issue.

Need some ideas to get your creative green juices flowing? OK! Here you go! Enjoy!

o Get the family involved - make it fun and educational.

o Make it a project during your child's science fair.

o Chat with your friends - they may have some unique ideas.

o Add a signature tag to your emails. I have a personal account with Yahoo. Whenever I send someone an email, my signature message or quote is at the end of the page. I create the signature once and forget about it. If you see a quote you like or have a message to share with others - signature it!

o Find out what tax incentives or refunds are available to you, i.e. hybrid car tax incentives, toilet replacement rebates, deduct the costs of energy-saving appliances and energy renovations in your home.

o Support greener businesses. Our money dictates what businesses sell. Our support encourages businesses to continue doing the right thing.

o Want to invest in the stock market? What companies are moving forward in clean-up? Researching new technologies? Contributing portions of their profits to support environmental organizations?

o Vote. What candidates are fighting for positive changes in the environment? Who seems to be making global warming a primary focus in their campaign? How does the candidate balance global warming and the economy? Does the candidate understand the threat and what solutions does he or she offer?

o Join others online and become a part of something bigger. In the past, petitions involved going door-to-door or standing near the mall entrance. Thanks to the internet, a letter to Congress has never been easier - or more effective! Read the letter already prepared. If you agree with it, type your name and hit ENTER !

o Submit your ideas to websites. I would love input from you! Your ideas can be just what someone else needed! Many websites would also benefit from your thoughts and appreciate the communication!

o Start a discussion group in your community. Barnes and Noble or Borders are excellent meetings spots. It's a great way to meet others and bounce around ideas.

o Help improve your neighborhood. In Tampa, there's a wonderful community group that has a Project Lottery. Each participant chooses a project they need completed on their house. A name is pulled every month. The neighbors spend one weekend on the project. The lucky owner provides drinks and snacks to the neighbors volunteering.

o Create a website of your own! Everyone has a voice. Today, websites are effective communicators and very inexpensive. Get the kids or the community involved.

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