It’s Christmas – The Best Time To Think about Ethical Fashion

Pamela Ravasio will present a webinar that looks at clothing manufacturing and pollution and the importance of thinking and buying ethically.

The webinar will take place on Monday, December 12, 2011, 7:30 PM (GMT)

Sign up for the Webinar at 21st Century Network’s Meetup page here

Pamela is a freelance business consultant for ethical fashion SMEs, a market researcher and a journalist. Pamela is further the founder and managing editor of Shirahime (http://shirahime.com), a blog 
that focused on the topic of sustainability in fashion, and which in 2011 won the prestigious ‘Observer Ethical Award’ in the 
category ‘ethical blog’. Pamela has previously given a webinar and organised a meetup on ethical fashion.

A new investigative report from Greenpeace, entitled ‘Dirty Laundry’, profiles the problem of toxic water pollution resulting from the release of hazardous chemicals by the textile industry in China. The investigations focuses on two facilities that were found to be discharging a range of hazardous and persistent chemicals with hormone-disrupting properties. These results are indicative of a much wider problem that is posing serious and immediate threats to both our precious ecosystems and to human health.

In the follow up research commissioned by Greenpeace International (‘Dirty Laundry 2’) it is revealed that clothing and certain fabric-based shoes sold internationally by major clothing brands are manufactured using nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs). NPEs — which are used as surfactants in textile production. They break down to form toxic substance called nonylphenol (NP) which is a persistent chemical with hormone-disrupting properties that builds up in the food chain, and is hazardous even at very low levels.

While Greenpeace did only analyse dye houses and brands that are – in the global context – ahead of their peers, the more worrying fact is: the vast majority of clothing brands have no means of telling if and what toxic substances are used in the manufacturing of their collections. And maybe worse: for a vast range of chemicals used in textile manufacturing, the long-term impacts on human and animal health and the environment are unclear, or even unknown, till this very day.

Greenpeace is challenging industry leading brands brands and suppliers to become champions for a toxic-free future – by eliminating all releases of hazardous chemicals from their supply chains and their products. And also governments have a crucial role to play by putting suitable frameworks into place and enforcing adherence and retrospective accountability.

The webinar will take place on Monday, December 12, 2011, 7:30 PM (GMT)

Sign up for the Webinar at 21st Century Network’s Meetup page here

$25K for the Greenest Family in NYC Tri-State Area–special from Shel Horowitz

For those of you reading this in the NYC Tri-State Area, PrincipleProfit author and ethical marketing guru, Shel Horowitz, pushed this my way so I’m pushing it your way!

I am always thinking of you, my readers–so when I saw this in this morning’s Help a Reporter, I stopped what I am doing to tell you about it. I know nothing about this other than what is below, but it certainly seemed worth passing on. If I lived in the Tri-State area and had kids the right age, I’d enter myself.

HARO is a no-charge service that sends reporter queries three times a weekday.
You can subscribe at www.helpareporter.com.

I suggest you respond with two or three bullets and a sentence or two about your qualifications – let them follow up later)–the faster the better.

Please respond to the reporter *using the address in the body of the request* (I wouldn’t mind being copied but if you only send to me, I won’t forward it) with HARO as the first word of the subject line.

Remember–I didn’t write this and can’t answer any questions about it. All I know is what’s below.

18) Summary: CASTING: How green is YOUR family?

Category: Entertainment and Media
Media Outlet: Anonymous
Deadline: 7:00 PM EST – 8 December
Query:

How green is YOUR family? A NYC based media company is casting three families in the tri-state area to enter an eco-friendly challenge! We are looking for outgoing families who are comfortable on camera. Shoot dates will be mid-to-late January for two days in your home.

Here’s the deal! Each family will name one of their children (age 6-10) as team lead, and under the guidance of a green expert, each family will be asked to create solutions to (1) save water, (2) save energy, and (3) reduce waste at home, in their neighborhoods and in their schools. Each family will be compensated; however points will be awarded for each activity and the winning family will appear on Better TV and receive a $25,000 savings bond for their child’s college education.

Does your family have what it takes to win this challenge? Write a brief description explaining why, grab your favorite family photo, and submit to greenfamilycasting@gmail.com

Accurate Writing & More, 16 Barstow Lane , Hadley, MA 01035, United States

Create you own custom eBook for FREE – Great Wikipedia Resource!

I’ve just come across this great resource via The Social Media Guide. Did you know how easy it is to create an ebook with Wikipedia’s Free eBook Generator? Great idea for a personalised offer from your business or to your family and friends as it gives you the option to pay to have it printed and delivered.

Mobile Phone-Charging Footwear: Walk (A Lot) To Speak

I truly want a pair of Orange Power Wellies, mostly so I could declare that I am wearing “wellies,” a term we just do not make use of enough on this area of the pond. But additionally because they’re very cute thermoelectric rubber boot footwear which charge your own mobile phone making use of warmth out of your feet. These can come in very handy whenever hiking, camping, or engaging in other activities that lend themselves to wellie wearing yet not necessarily to electrical power outlets.

U.K. mobile rider Orange teamed with green-energy company GotWind to create the shoes which feature an electrical-producing sole that converts feet heat straight into an electrical current. This particular “welectricity,” as they are calling it (geddit?), can be employed to recharge a cell phone, which you connect on to the top of the wellie for the boost.

The prototype Wellington boots will make their debut at the U.K.’s Glastonbury performing arts festival, an enormous open-air entertainment blowout which this particular year runs from June 23 up to June 27. A lot of festivalgoers camp out, making it a smart spot to show off a model eco-friendly kinetic charger. We hope we understood how much the Orange Power Wellies will cost once they hit the broader market.

We all can say for certain that twelve hours of stomping through the festival’s muddy grass with the boots will continue to keep your own feet dry and supposedly provide you with enough energy to charge a cell phone for one hour. Put simply, these wellies have been created for strolling–and you’re going to need to go plenty if you want to chat and text.

We have come upon other kinetic methods of charging gadgets, of course, which includes a “piezoelectric” rubber material out of Princeton and Caltech which generates electricity any time flexed and could one day locate its way into footwear which charge cell phones as well as other mobile electronic digital gadgets as the person strolls or jogs.

Regarding the particular Orange Power Wellies, power is collected by means of the so-called Seebeck consequence, in which a thermoelectric apparatus produces a voltage when there’s different temperatures on each side. The soles of the wellies have a range of semiconductor materials sandwiched between a couple of slim ceramic wafers; when warmth from the feet are applied at the top section of the ceramic wafer and cold is put on the opposite side (from the cold of the ground), electrical power is said to be produced.

This is not the first time Orange has conceived of sustainable technologies for that Glastonbury Festival. This past year, the business revealed a concept solar tent in conjunction with the opening of the actual event.

In case you definitely care about your future, be eco friendly. All of us could do this by choosing eco friendly products and participating in environment friendly activities. We only have one world to exist in so let’s stand up for this!

categories: environment,gardening,outdoors,science,technology,health,politics,society,home,family,education,communications,government,business

Solar Power FAQ's

1. Q. I live in an area where we get a lot of cloudy days. Is solar power for my home really worthwhile exploring?

A. Yes. You may end up needing more photovoltaic panels, or you might need to configure them differently, but there are very few places in the world where solar energy can’t be captured and either used to supplement existing power needs, or totally supplant it.

2. Q. Can I afford solar power?

A. Solar power energy systems remain somewhat higher than fossil fuel (coal, gas, oil) at the initial installation. The question may turn itself around to “Wow do you believe how much I’m saving with my solar power installation?” once you add up all the returns, like state and federal tax credits, rebates, net metering, and the money you won’t be paying…increasingly…to the utility company year after year.

3. Q. What is the difference between a solar hot water system and a solar power system?

A. Well, a solar hot water system is one component of a solar power system. It’s generally just a radiant hot water heater that in one of several ways captures sunlight and uses it to create hot water for your home. A solar power system, on the other hand, is a system that may consist of a solar panel array made up of photovoltaic (PV) panels, or a parabolic trough, or some other collection tool that uses the sun’s energy, converts it into electricity which you use to power your home in the same manner you would as if you were getting that electricity from the utility company.

4. Q. What maintenance do solar power systems require?

A. Very little. You’ll need to keep your collectors…photovoltaic (PV) panels, or whatever other collection system you have, free of debris, leaves and heavy snow. And that’s just about it.

5. Q. Is financing available for a solar power system?

A. Yes. It falls into the same arena as most other home improvement projects that are eligible for home equity loans. Check with your financial institution before you sign up, but since solar power systems add value to your real estate, most lenders are happy to help…assuming you have good credit of course.

6. Q. Do I need to consult a solar professional before I start?

A. That’s up to you. You can certainly proceed without one, especially if you’re willing to do a lot of research and develop a plan before you start. Often, though, having a professional pays big dividends in the end. They already know the mistakes you’re most likely to make, and can help you avoid them. Be sure to look for someone who’s been in the business for awhile and has a good reputation.

7. Q. Should I get more than one bid?

A. Several bids are almost always the best option. Not only can multiple bidders help you find the best price, they can also provide you with different installation options. Once you’ve made your selection of who to use, set realistic expectations on how long the work will take, and agree on exactly what you’re going to end up with. This can help to get your project completed when you want it done, and at the cost you are willing to pay.

8. Q. Will my photovoltaic (PV) system take up my whole roof?

A. This depends on how much power you need. For a 1000 watt system, you’ll need between 100-200 square feet of area (about the size of an average bedroom).

9. Q. What does net metering mean?

A. If you’re connected to a local utility, in most cases, they will install an additional meter that tracks how much energy you produce with your solar system, and how much you use during what hours. If you produce excess energy, it goes into the power grid and provides electricity for others. Your account is credited for this excess energy produced against any electricity you may pull from the utility grid.

10. Q. Am I really going to be making a difference in global warming if I move to a solar power system?

A. Yes, every little bit counts. Maybe you won’t see it today or tomorrow, but every person who’s not getting their power from a fossil fuel energy source is making a difference. When you consider 53,000 pounds of carbon dioxide is what the average American puts into the atmosphere every year with the fossil fuel energy they use, consider how much cleaner the air becomes when even one average American doesn’t put 53,000 tons of carbon dioxide into the air. Yes…you can make a difference.

Learn more about home solar power. Stop by Timothy Peters’s site where you can find about other solar energy topics: www.HomeSolarPowerExplained.com

American Wind Turbine Plans – Creating A Safer Future For Our World

The carbon emission of the U. S. had grown 0.8% year by year for the last quarter century. Now, this might not seem much, but this would amount to millions of tons of carbon discharges and it is due to this reason that American wind generator plans was put in with the requirement of reducing pollution done by power generation in the state.

In 2008, total of wind energy installed in the U.S. Overreached 8500 MW. Therefore, wind energy in America has been growing very strong. And yet, most “green groups” claim this rate of development in American wind energy is less than suitable and lobbies for bigger use of viable green energy.

In expanding the wind energy, the governing body had to face many difficulties. Most importantly is the issue relating to the expenses? Installing wind energy is quite pricey. Therefore, wind power is reasonably pricey and this has been one of the greatest problems.

Another problem is made by the birds when they immediately fly towards the rotor blades. Carrying the mandatory appliances has also been an issue as the meriting regions are quite remote. The kit also takes up a significant area. If this kind of power is to extend further, solutions would be found for these issues. At least for a couple of these problems, technical developments and advancements can offer answers.

One of the added advantages of this form of energy is that it has lead to job possibilities in agricultural isolated areas where work is tricky to find. Farmers can expand their incomes by leasing the land, and crops can be grown round the turbine, up to its terribly base. Therefore the wind energy should have been a God-sent opportunity to develop and radically change the agricultural America. The employment of this sort of power doesn’t have to be at the state level.

You can now enjoy the benefits of American wind generator plans through the use of a little wind machine that might supply adequate electricity to meet the requirements of a place.

Since the utilization of wind power has seriously increased in the country, many companies are now concerned in this sector. The potential for such power does look really good. Replaceable and supportable categories of alternative power or energy are the main elements in making a better potential for our world.

Liked the above article? Another article at domestic solar energy on this website Homemade Wind Turbine

Becoming Ecofriendly

Today the demand for different kinds of ecofriendly goods has expanded because of the rise in worries for the ecosystem. Folks must take advantage of these ecofriendly goods to be able to stop any kind of damage which can be brought on for the natural environment by making use of items which are not really ecofriendly.

The different kinds of ecofriendly air fresheners which can be used these days at houses without causing any harm towards the environment are as follows:-

* Potpourri – Potpourri is made up of a container of mixed flower petals and spices. This particular container is used as perfume. The scent or smell of potpourri gets consumed entirely. The potpourri may be used to add to the beauty of homes. Nevertheless, it is not able enough to get rid of bad odor from the actual air. Some organic herbs and spices must be employed to regain the fragrance or smell back. Cinnamon or even nutmeg may be put into the potpourri to be able to give a brand new and fresh fragrance for the potpourri. Few sprigs of fresh new mint can also be included in order to enhance the aroma of the potpourri. Peppermint may also be used to help keep the ants from houses of individuals.

* Folks could take advantage of essential natural oils to further improve the scent of their houses. These kinds of natural oils are ecofriendly naturally and are taken out from plants. These kinds of natural oils tend to be non-hazardous in nature. These natural oils should be combined with a minimum of 4 parts of water. These natural oils must not be put on the furniture because these natural oils might leave behind a film. Additional water should be added to the mixture whenever such films are made on the home furniture.

* Some fruits could also be used effectively to improve the scent of the homes. Fruits like oranges, apples as well as lemons could be cut into thin circles. The fruits must be dried out on a cookie sheet. These fruits should be overlaid after drying them over the cookie sheet. A little bit of shellac or floor polish should be employed so as to keep the fruits. These fruits can be put to use as bedroom fresheners for several weeks. Folks could also take advantage of raw fruit as air fresheners.

* Beeswax candles can also be used successfully to enhance the smell of folks’ residence. These kinds of candles give off the scent of honey when burnt. These kinds of candles are available in the market in a number of sizes and shapes. Folks must take advantage of the naturally colored wax lights to prevent causing any kind of damage to the natural environment.

* Various fragrances can also be put together in order to make a bowl arrangement. These kinds of arrangements can be built visible by pouring them straight into wooden shallow bowls or clear glass bowls. Some dried herbs like mint, rosemary and thyme may also be added to such arrangements. In order to obtain a seasonal smell, cinnamon sticks or nutmeg can be added. Some beeswax candles can also be positioned in the center of these containers for purposes of decoration.

In case you really value your future, be eco friendly. All of us could do this by using eco friendly products and engaging in environment helpful activities. We only have one world to live in so let us stand up for it!

The Price Of Solar Panels Is Declining

New research on the life expectancy of this new kind of renewable energy has helped decrease the cost of solar panels. It was once estimated that solar panels would last only about 20 years, but it has now been proven that models can last up to 30 years. This makes it a more appealing investment for homeowners who were hesitant because of the short life expectancy.

Environmentalists as well as policy makers are encouraging financial institutions to make available to homeowners the finances available to purchase and install solar panels because they are very cost efficient and will be able to repay for themselves with less energy consumption.

Across Europe, and even China, governments have been giving financial incentives for those private citizens who upgrade to solar energy. This, of course, has decreased the cost of solar panels and increased demand. India and the United States have incentive plans in the works but have yet to release and implement them.

Before, I mentioned how this type of renewable energy will pay for itself and here is why: the major expense of solar panels is the purchase of the actual equipment and its installation. The rest is almost free because you do not have to pay for the energy source.

The renewable energy industry, the solar energy field in particular, has very enthusiastic goals. These goals include making solar energy as cheap as the electricity we use today. The aim is to make Europe at least half dependent on solar energy as opposed to electricity grids by 2020.

Around the globe the demand for renewable energy is growing. More and more citizens of the world are becoming more conscience of the effects of our actions on the environment, increasing the demand for green energy. This demand will cut the cost of solar panels even further.

The cost of solar panel hardware is going down, so it is possible to get a cheap solar panel. Start using solar generated energy today!

Ecofriendly Homes

People prefer to buy ecofriendly houses nowadays. The ecofriendly houses offer a lot of advantages to the environment. These homes are designed for improving the life of our own planet by enhancing the environmental conditions. These houses may also offer a lot of advantages to their owners such as lower utility costs and healthier air quality.

The various guidelines that should be adopted by folks prior to buying ecofriendly homes are detailed below:-

*The actual costs involved with the construction of an ecofriendly home are approximately five to 20 percent more than the price necessary to construct a standard home. An individual who wishes to possess an ecofriendly house must look into the characteristics that he wishes to use in his home. For every environment friendly feature that he has selected for his brand new home, he must determine the savings that he would obtain on his utility bills. By doing these kinds of estimations, he can determine that number which will be needed to recover the additional charges that will be required to construct an ecofriendly home.

* A person must take advantage of environment friendly supplies as a way to build his house. The ecofriendly materials are defined as those supplies which are produced locally, natural, lasting and require minimal processing when they are produced. People should only make full use of non-toxic as well as safe materials for building their houses. Individuals should not buy additional materials which might get wasted. All the stages of creating an environment friendly home should be properly planned in order to avoid wastage of numerous construction materials.

* An environment friendly house should be equipped with water saving gadgets within the sinks, showers and flush of the toilet. These homes must be built with rain water tank. These tanks may be used to flush toilets, clean clothes and water the gardens. The use of rain water tank will facilitate the recycling of water.

* Solar energy is a replenishable type of energy that is found in abundance. People should harvest the energy of the sun to get numerous advantages. Big double panel windows must be positioned on the northern side of the home. Solar power panels should be installed in the homes for heating water.

* The houses need to be insulated properly in order to make efficient utilization of energy. The ceilings of the houses should be installed with double insulation so as to catch heat and stop its escape from the ceilings.

* People should only purchase electrical appliances and light bulbs which will make efficient utilization of electrical energy. Depending on the budget of a person, he should purchase the most energy efficient appliances.

* People must only take advantage of those materials and paints which purify the air by permitting the air to penetrate. People should set up hardwood floors in order to prevent making use of carpets along with other dust attracting materials in the house.

The building of ecofriendly homes would help in keeping the environment safe.

In case you seriously care about your future, be eco friendly. All of us could accomplish this by utilizing eco friendly products and engaging in environment friendly activities. We only have one world to exist in so let us stand up for this!

Green Power Options Are The Future Of Energy

Our thirst for oil and other fossil fuels has brought us to the point where we are doing irreversible harm to our planet. We are also quickly realizing that we are running out of these non renewable resources. As the global economy continues to grow, a world fueled by green power is not far off.

As various green technologies continue to be developed, a few of them are already showing promise as serious contenders.

Green power has been around for a very long time, in fact windmills alone go far back in history. Only until recently have these innovative sources of power been taken seriously. Now, as more money is being invested into research, green power sources are being developed that will eventually contribute to how we fuel our need for energy.

One of the most cost effective ways of producing electricity is through the creation of wind farms. Windmills have been sources of power for hundreds of years, but only recently have they been seen as a reliable and stable source of power. Only three percent of the world’s power is supplied by wind turbines, but that number is growing exponentially as people discover how green this power source really is.

Wind technology is easy to manufacturer and install, and once in operation, they are also very easy to maintain. They provide the most effective way of producing energy next to burning coal. As long as the wind is blowing, the turbines will be spinning. They generate nearly as much power as coal, without any of the harmful carbon emissions being released into the atmosphere. Wind technology is the single best candidate to provide a large percentage of our power needs in the future.

On the subject of turbines, another trend emerging is building sea turbines that capture the energy of water currents to generate power. This technology is being used in small scale situations all over the globe, and they are also generating power with no emissions. They are a little more complex than wind turbines, and they require more maintenance due to the corrosive nature of salt water.

Solar power is making a resurgence as a great renewable source of energy, however solar panels are still not cheap enough to be cost effective for general use. But, the great advantage of solar panels is how they only need sun to generate electricity, also with no emissions. There are huge solar farms found in the western United States, among other unpopulated areas in the world, and they are making a significant contribution. As solar technology develops, perhaps this source of power will be more widely used.

Since coal and natural gas are non renewable sources of energy, we cannot count on their availability for the long term power needs we share. Natural gas is a great and clean burning source of energy, but also very dangerous. Methane gas from decomposing matter in landfills burn the same as natural gas, and they are being developed and expanded to help fuel our power supply. Huge underwater pockets of methane have also been discovered all over the planet, and will be in use within the next twenty years or so.

Green power has exploded into the world stage in the recent past, and it will continue to become more and more integrated into our power hungry lives. More research will reveal how these technologies can be adapted to satisfy our ever increasing hunger for power.

Cheryl Kearns is an internet marketer and author. She writes about the environment and green issues . You can visit her site at environment