As part of the newly regulated energy performance certificate required of all new and existing residential dwellings in England and Wales, every homeowner must submit a Home information pack to the UK government. The UK Housing Minister is the head of the energy efficiency program in the UK. Certified home inspectors, called Domestic Energy Assessors, will advise home buyers, builders and sellers on what energy efficient measures could help improve their home efficiency. These measures could include thicker attic insulation, solar panels and energy efficient appliances.
Without the requisite home information pack and an assessment by a licensed domestic energy assessor, a new home will not be constructed and an existing home will not be able to be sold.
The Home Information Pack is designed to assist in reducing energy costs at the rate of what the UK government has assessed as 1 million daily. This home information pack, part of the energy performance certificate compliance, includes a report of Home Condition, the terms of the sale of the home and any details of the search. A report of the homes energy efficiency rating must also be included in this report. The purpose behind the rating is to let the potential buyers know the likely costs of the energy to run their new home.
An energy performance certificate, in addition to complying with mandatory government regulations, could be seen by sellers as a help rather than a hindrance to the sale. Potential buyers who see that the home has earned the energy performance certificate will be assured that their energy costs in their new home will be comparably lower than others who havent complied.
There are additional benefits for the consumer of this energy performance certificate. It will provide the assessment that will let owners know what needs improving to save energy and the affiliated costs. It will also guide them on how to accomplish the improvements. It will help improve the condition and saleability of the home as well as improving the environment for all. It may well reduce the cost of repair for those things that might have gone on undetected had it not been for the energy performance certificate inspection. As we all know, finding a problem while its minor is less time consuming and less costly than repairing or replacing when disaster strikes.
First time buyers will now, with the initiation of the energy performance certificate and the home information pack that must accompany it, be armed with more information. They can confidently assess and compare, and find the lowest cost of entry for the purchase of their new home.
A home information pack is not free. Its cost varies by local market, although the average seems to be 600 to 700. This cost is typically divided between buyer and seller although there are home energy performance certificate providers that have pledged to provide their assistance at no charge or at least reduced cost.
About the Author
James Copper is a writer for http://www.plumbingcareer.co.uk where you can find out about plumbing training
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Those Fish Stealing Eagles!
The morning was slightly overcast with marshmallow clouds hovering over the lake as we made our way to one of our favorite fishing holes. The fish were still on the beds in only couple of feet of water and if you dangled a minnow anywhere near them, you could pull up a big slab crappie almost as soon as you threw the bait into the water.
We were on Jessup Lake in central Florida, about twenty minutes from Orlando in very early spring. Nature had sprinkled the surrounding shoreline with bouquets of wild flowers of every imaginable shade of pinks, whites and reds, as shrubs and trees changed from winter coats to springtime plumage.
We'd only been fishing for a couple of hours and had a nice string of fish that would go in the freezer after we'd gotten back to the dock and cleaned them. Another one had just pulled my bobber under the water when I saw a large bird dive out of the sky and hover about twenty feet above the water, just a good casting distance from me!
Having seen them before on this lake, I knew I was watching an osprey tracking breakfast, or maybe lunch. As I pulled the crappie into the boat the bird dropped feet first into the lake and immediately came up with a fish that looked larger than his captor; though ospreys usually can lift and fly with an object only half of their weight.
While I was sitting in the boat gawking at this awesome sight, two other slightly larger birds soared out of the clouds and dove at the osprey as he headed for shore with his catch. Before I realized what was happening, one of the birds dove at the osprey as if was trying to knock him out of the sky! I was witnessing an aerial battle between two young eagles and the osprey for possession of the fish!
They'd obviously found that harassing the osprey to the point where he dropped the fish was a lot easier than catching the fish themselves. I guess stealing is learned at an early age in the wild, maybe even in civilization.
By the coloring of the eagles I guessed they were between one and two years old. Young eagles don't develop the white head and feet until their fourth to fifth year; these were a mottled black and gray color. Both were a little larger than the osprey, despite their youth.
Adult eagles are larger than the osprey, having a wing span of 6 to 8 feet, while the osprey is smaller, about 4 to 6 feet. Both however have similar lifestyles. Each species catches fish the same way, diving toward their prey and then plunging into the water feet first, grabbing the fish with their talons. Both mate for life, only taking another mate if their current companion dies.
Eagles' builds their nests high atop trees, living or dead, while ospreys prefer nesting in dead trees so leaves won't get in their way when they return to their nests. Both bird's nests are between 5 feet and 10 feet in diameter.
As I was watching one of the young eagles soared high into the air and dove straight at the osprey as he struggled to carry the fish to the shore. As soon as the first bird flew away, the other eagle shot from high above the heavily laden bird and came so close to it they almost collided, causing the osprey to drop the fish near the bank of the lake!
Immediately the other young eagle snatched the fish off the ground and flew away, dropping it onto a fork in the tree where the mother waited. The osprey was not about to try and recover his stolen property!
I always look forward to going to Lake Jessup because I always witness things I can't see anywhere else, like alligators by the thousands!
The morning was slightly overcast with marshmallow clouds hovering over the lake as we made our way to one of our favorite fishing holes. The fish were still on the beds in only couple of feet of water and if you dangled a minnow anywhere near them, you could pull up a big slab crappie almost as soon as you threw the bait into the water.
We were on Jessup Lake in central Florida, about twenty minutes from Orlando in very early spring. Nature had sprinkled the surrounding shoreline with bouquets of wild flowers of every imaginable shade of pinks, whites and reds, as shrubs and trees changed from winter coats to springtime plumage.
We'd only been fishing for a couple of hours and had a nice string of fish that would go in the freezer after we'd gotten back to the dock and cleaned them. Another one had just pulled my bobber under the water when I saw a large bird dive out of the sky and hover about twenty feet above the water, just a good casting distance from me!
Having seen them before on this lake, I knew I was watching an osprey tracking breakfast, or maybe lunch. As I pulled the crappie into the boat the bird dropped feet first into the lake and immediately came up with a fish that looked larger than his captor; though ospreys usually can lift and fly with an object only half of their weight.
While I was sitting in the boat gawking at this awesome sight, two other slightly larger birds soared out of the clouds and dove at the osprey as he headed for shore with his catch. Before I realized what was happening, one of the birds dove at the osprey as if was trying to knock him out of the sky! I was witnessing an aerial battle between two young eagles and the osprey for possession of the fish!
They'd obviously found that harassing the osprey to the point where he dropped the fish was a lot easier than catching the fish themselves. I guess stealing is learned at an early age in the wild, maybe even in civilization.
By the coloring of the eagles I guessed they were between one and two years old. Young eagles don't develop the white head and feet until their fourth to fifth year; these were a mottled black and gray color. Both were a little larger than the osprey, despite their youth.
Adult eagles are larger than the osprey, having a wing span of 6 to 8 feet, while the osprey is smaller, about 4 to 6 feet. Both however have similar lifestyles. Each species catches fish the same way, diving toward their prey and then plunging into the water feet first, grabbing the fish with their talons. Both mate for life, only taking another mate if their current companion dies.
Eagles' builds their nests high atop trees, living or dead, while ospreys prefer nesting in dead trees so leaves won't get in their way when they return to their nests. Both bird's nests are between 5 feet and 10 feet in diameter.
As I was watching one of the young eagles soared high into the air and dove straight at the osprey as he struggled to carry the fish to the shore. As soon as the first bird flew away, the other eagle shot from high above the heavily laden bird and came so close to it they almost collided, causing the osprey to drop the fish near the bank of the lake!
Immediately the other young eagle snatched the fish off the ground and flew away, dropping it onto a fork in the tree where the mother waited. The osprey was not about to try and recover his stolen property!
I always look forward to going to Lake Jessup because I always witness things I can't see anywhere else, like alligators by the thousands!
About the Author
Bob Alexander is well experienced in outdoor cooking, fishing and leisure living. Bob is also the author and owner of this article. Visit his sites at: http://www.bluemarlinbob.com http://www.redfishbob.com
We were on Jessup Lake in central Florida, about twenty minutes from Orlando in very early spring. Nature had sprinkled the surrounding shoreline with bouquets of wild flowers of every imaginable shade of pinks, whites and reds, as shrubs and trees changed from winter coats to springtime plumage.
We'd only been fishing for a couple of hours and had a nice string of fish that would go in the freezer after we'd gotten back to the dock and cleaned them. Another one had just pulled my bobber under the water when I saw a large bird dive out of the sky and hover about twenty feet above the water, just a good casting distance from me!
Having seen them before on this lake, I knew I was watching an osprey tracking breakfast, or maybe lunch. As I pulled the crappie into the boat the bird dropped feet first into the lake and immediately came up with a fish that looked larger than his captor; though ospreys usually can lift and fly with an object only half of their weight.
While I was sitting in the boat gawking at this awesome sight, two other slightly larger birds soared out of the clouds and dove at the osprey as he headed for shore with his catch. Before I realized what was happening, one of the birds dove at the osprey as if was trying to knock him out of the sky! I was witnessing an aerial battle between two young eagles and the osprey for possession of the fish!
They'd obviously found that harassing the osprey to the point where he dropped the fish was a lot easier than catching the fish themselves. I guess stealing is learned at an early age in the wild, maybe even in civilization.
By the coloring of the eagles I guessed they were between one and two years old. Young eagles don't develop the white head and feet until their fourth to fifth year; these were a mottled black and gray color. Both were a little larger than the osprey, despite their youth.
Adult eagles are larger than the osprey, having a wing span of 6 to 8 feet, while the osprey is smaller, about 4 to 6 feet. Both however have similar lifestyles. Each species catches fish the same way, diving toward their prey and then plunging into the water feet first, grabbing the fish with their talons. Both mate for life, only taking another mate if their current companion dies.
Eagles' builds their nests high atop trees, living or dead, while ospreys prefer nesting in dead trees so leaves won't get in their way when they return to their nests. Both bird's nests are between 5 feet and 10 feet in diameter.
As I was watching one of the young eagles soared high into the air and dove straight at the osprey as he struggled to carry the fish to the shore. As soon as the first bird flew away, the other eagle shot from high above the heavily laden bird and came so close to it they almost collided, causing the osprey to drop the fish near the bank of the lake!
Immediately the other young eagle snatched the fish off the ground and flew away, dropping it onto a fork in the tree where the mother waited. The osprey was not about to try and recover his stolen property!
I always look forward to going to Lake Jessup because I always witness things I can't see anywhere else, like alligators by the thousands!
The morning was slightly overcast with marshmallow clouds hovering over the lake as we made our way to one of our favorite fishing holes. The fish were still on the beds in only couple of feet of water and if you dangled a minnow anywhere near them, you could pull up a big slab crappie almost as soon as you threw the bait into the water.
We were on Jessup Lake in central Florida, about twenty minutes from Orlando in very early spring. Nature had sprinkled the surrounding shoreline with bouquets of wild flowers of every imaginable shade of pinks, whites and reds, as shrubs and trees changed from winter coats to springtime plumage.
We'd only been fishing for a couple of hours and had a nice string of fish that would go in the freezer after we'd gotten back to the dock and cleaned them. Another one had just pulled my bobber under the water when I saw a large bird dive out of the sky and hover about twenty feet above the water, just a good casting distance from me!
Having seen them before on this lake, I knew I was watching an osprey tracking breakfast, or maybe lunch. As I pulled the crappie into the boat the bird dropped feet first into the lake and immediately came up with a fish that looked larger than his captor; though ospreys usually can lift and fly with an object only half of their weight.
While I was sitting in the boat gawking at this awesome sight, two other slightly larger birds soared out of the clouds and dove at the osprey as he headed for shore with his catch. Before I realized what was happening, one of the birds dove at the osprey as if was trying to knock him out of the sky! I was witnessing an aerial battle between two young eagles and the osprey for possession of the fish!
They'd obviously found that harassing the osprey to the point where he dropped the fish was a lot easier than catching the fish themselves. I guess stealing is learned at an early age in the wild, maybe even in civilization.
By the coloring of the eagles I guessed they were between one and two years old. Young eagles don't develop the white head and feet until their fourth to fifth year; these were a mottled black and gray color. Both were a little larger than the osprey, despite their youth.
Adult eagles are larger than the osprey, having a wing span of 6 to 8 feet, while the osprey is smaller, about 4 to 6 feet. Both however have similar lifestyles. Each species catches fish the same way, diving toward their prey and then plunging into the water feet first, grabbing the fish with their talons. Both mate for life, only taking another mate if their current companion dies.
Eagles' builds their nests high atop trees, living or dead, while ospreys prefer nesting in dead trees so leaves won't get in their way when they return to their nests. Both bird's nests are between 5 feet and 10 feet in diameter.
As I was watching one of the young eagles soared high into the air and dove straight at the osprey as he struggled to carry the fish to the shore. As soon as the first bird flew away, the other eagle shot from high above the heavily laden bird and came so close to it they almost collided, causing the osprey to drop the fish near the bank of the lake!
Immediately the other young eagle snatched the fish off the ground and flew away, dropping it onto a fork in the tree where the mother waited. The osprey was not about to try and recover his stolen property!
I always look forward to going to Lake Jessup because I always witness things I can't see anywhere else, like alligators by the thousands!
About the Author
Bob Alexander is well experienced in outdoor cooking, fishing and leisure living. Bob is also the author and owner of this article. Visit his sites at: http://www.bluemarlinbob.com http://www.redfishbob.com
Global Warming And Getting Right With God
When you receive the Seal you will prepare yourself, because global warming is ushering in the end times. As global warming progresses the end of the world is approaching and you will prepare yourself spiritually.
2007 was tied as the 2nd-hottest year in recorded history. In the north, thaws are already happening a week earlier in the spring and freezing does not happen now for another week.
This has changed in the past century, and most of the change has happened in the past decade. Since global warming is speeding up, you can see it is a sign of the end times.
When the disciples of Jesus asked Him about what the end-times would be like, He told them a simple parable. It was the parable of a fig tree. When the fig tree blossoms, you know that summer is near.
Jesus said the end of the world would come like a summer. And what do you have happening now? Global warming turning your winters into summers. The fig tree is blossoming. That "summer" is approaching.
Natural disasters are rising along with world temperatures. There are more wildfires now. There are more droughts. There are more floods. The hurricanes that do happen are more severe.
These natural disasters are going to affect the poor people of the world much more than they will affect the wealthy people like the inhabitants of the United States. But most of the pollution causing global warming is from the US.
The US is the world's biggest polluter of carbon dioxide, the "greenhouse gas" blamed for trapping in the heat of the sun much like a greenhouse keeps the plants inside it warm.
But much of the CO2 emitted by the US is from coal-fired power plants. This is something that can be changed quite easily. And another large amount of CO2 is from automobiles. New technology can soon replace this old-fashioned way of getting around.
But for now nothing is being done in the US, the place with the most capital and ingenuity to solve the problems of global warming. Nothing is being done by the biggest offender, also the one most able to make changes.
But the capital and the ingenuity are not enough. That will not change the people. And even changing people so they are not polluting as much is not enough. People need to change spiritually now.
You need to change spiritually. You need to get right with God because global warming is the ushering in of the end times. This is not prophecy that has yet to be fulfilled. This has already started happening.
You need to be sealed. Then you will please God. Then God will write His Name upon your forehead. And then you will belong to God. And when you belong to God you will enter into the kingdom of Heaven.
The world is coming to an end but you can have eternal Life in Heaven. Then your life will never end. And Heaven will not be destroyed by an unscrupulous bunch of people.
When you are sealed you will be right with God. And that is what you need today--to get right with God. Because global warming is the beginning of the end of the world. And at the end God will accept you when you receive the Seal.
About the Author
And now Jason would like to invite you to get your FREE report Are You Making These Mistakes as a Christian? and "Get God's 'Seal of Approval' and Get the Victory Over Evil" Jason Witt
2007 was tied as the 2nd-hottest year in recorded history. In the north, thaws are already happening a week earlier in the spring and freezing does not happen now for another week.
This has changed in the past century, and most of the change has happened in the past decade. Since global warming is speeding up, you can see it is a sign of the end times.
When the disciples of Jesus asked Him about what the end-times would be like, He told them a simple parable. It was the parable of a fig tree. When the fig tree blossoms, you know that summer is near.
Jesus said the end of the world would come like a summer. And what do you have happening now? Global warming turning your winters into summers. The fig tree is blossoming. That "summer" is approaching.
Natural disasters are rising along with world temperatures. There are more wildfires now. There are more droughts. There are more floods. The hurricanes that do happen are more severe.
These natural disasters are going to affect the poor people of the world much more than they will affect the wealthy people like the inhabitants of the United States. But most of the pollution causing global warming is from the US.
The US is the world's biggest polluter of carbon dioxide, the "greenhouse gas" blamed for trapping in the heat of the sun much like a greenhouse keeps the plants inside it warm.
But much of the CO2 emitted by the US is from coal-fired power plants. This is something that can be changed quite easily. And another large amount of CO2 is from automobiles. New technology can soon replace this old-fashioned way of getting around.
But for now nothing is being done in the US, the place with the most capital and ingenuity to solve the problems of global warming. Nothing is being done by the biggest offender, also the one most able to make changes.
But the capital and the ingenuity are not enough. That will not change the people. And even changing people so they are not polluting as much is not enough. People need to change spiritually now.
You need to change spiritually. You need to get right with God because global warming is the ushering in of the end times. This is not prophecy that has yet to be fulfilled. This has already started happening.
You need to be sealed. Then you will please God. Then God will write His Name upon your forehead. And then you will belong to God. And when you belong to God you will enter into the kingdom of Heaven.
The world is coming to an end but you can have eternal Life in Heaven. Then your life will never end. And Heaven will not be destroyed by an unscrupulous bunch of people.
When you are sealed you will be right with God. And that is what you need today--to get right with God. Because global warming is the beginning of the end of the world. And at the end God will accept you when you receive the Seal.
About the Author
And now Jason would like to invite you to get your FREE report Are You Making These Mistakes as a Christian? and "Get God's 'Seal of Approval' and Get the Victory Over Evil" Jason Witt
Save Money--In the Utility Closet
IN THE UTILITY CLOSET: Air Conditioner and Furnace Filters: Instead of replacing your disposable air filter several times a year, consider buying a permanent one that can be washed and reused indefinitely. Most of these filters have lifetime warranties, so you'll save money in the long run as well as reduce the amount of waste you send to the landfill. If half of all U.S. households replaced their disposable air filters with a single reusable one, the number of air filters saved form landfills each year could blanket the entire land area of Washington, D.C. Dry Cleaning: If you must use dry cleaners, try to go less frequently. You will not only save on drive time and fuel, you'll save plastic. Dry cleaners bunch items together into plastic garment bags, so the more items you bring at once, the better. If one in ten households took one less trip to the cleaners each year and saved two plastic garment bags, the plastic stitched together would make more than nine thousand hot air balloons. Better yet: Request no plastic bags, and return your paper hangers to the dry cleaners for recycling. You can also try eco-freindly dry clearners, or wet cleaners (whcih use biodegradable soap). Dryers: Clean your dryers lint screen, and don't overload the dryer. You'll save up to 5 percent on your electricity bill. If everyone did it, we'd save the energy equivalent of 350 million gallons of gasoline per year. Better yet: Use a clothesline when possible. Phone books: Recycle them. Better yet: Call a stop phone book delivery and then use an online telephone directory instead. Telephone books make up almost 10 percent of waste at dump sites. These hints come from "the green book" ....buy the green book and go to www.readthegreenbook.com.
About the Author
just an individual who's concerned with treating the world more gently along with saving money. for more tips go to http://saveapennysavetheworld.blogspot.com
About the Author
just an individual who's concerned with treating the world more gently along with saving money. for more tips go to http://saveapennysavetheworld.blogspot.com
Prediction Of Jesus Has Been Happening
When you receive the Seal you will see the sign of the end-times: global warming. This is the end of the world as predicted by Jesus Christ Himself. You will thus prepare yourself accordingly.
The world is growing warmer and it is happening faster than predicted. You may not believe the "consensus" on global warming. After all it is not proven by reputable scientific processes but by a simple consensus or agreement among scientists.
But the scientists do not need to be right. The scientists are not even needed. You can see that global warming is already happening by simply looking at records of temperatures taken in the last 100 years.
So it does not matter what is causing global warming. It does not matter who was at fault. What matters is it is the sign that the end-times are coming. And you must prepare yourself to meet God.
When the disciples of Jesus asked Him about the end-times He told them a simple little parable of a fig tree. This is not one of His more complex and mysterious parables. This one is easy to understand.
When the fig tree blossoms you know that the summer is near. That "summer" is the end of the world. And that "summer" is the summer that is being caused by global warming.
Global warming is making winter more like summer every year. The winters are warming and that is throwing out of balance the delicate ecosystem of the earth. That will be catastrophic.
The main culprit is carbon dioxide. This gas is considered a greenhouse gas because it is blamed for trapping the heat of the sun in the atmosphere so the world is getting warmer as if inside a greenhouse.
The United States is the world's biggest polluter with carbon dioxide. Most of it comes from coal-fired power plants. Then American automobiles are producing another large amount of CO2.
Both these polluters can be changed relatively easily. It will not hurt the economy of the US to change the electricity sources and the cars. It will rather create new profitable industries.
But there are growing economies like China in the world that will be much harder to change. China is now producing nearly the same amount of CO2 as the US. But China has much more corruption and much fewer resources to clean things up.
So it is unlikely that the world will stop polluting soon enough to save itself. At this point no commitment to change has been made by either the US or China. And time is running out.
Because all the harmful effects of global warming are happening faster than predicted. And natural disasters like floods, droughts, tsunamis, and hurricanes are all increasing in number as well as severity, caused by the warming climate.
But there is something you can do today. You can get right with God. Jesus predicted that the end of the world would be a "summer." Now His Words ring truer than the words of any other prophet.
When you receive the Seal you will be prepared to meet God, because God will write His Name in your forehead. And when the world ends you will go to live in Heaven, your eternal home when you receive the Seal.
About the Author
And now Jason would like to invite you to get your FREE report Are You Making These Mistakes as a Christian? and "Get God's 'Seal of Approval' and Get the Victory Over Evil" Jason Witt
The world is growing warmer and it is happening faster than predicted. You may not believe the "consensus" on global warming. After all it is not proven by reputable scientific processes but by a simple consensus or agreement among scientists.
But the scientists do not need to be right. The scientists are not even needed. You can see that global warming is already happening by simply looking at records of temperatures taken in the last 100 years.
So it does not matter what is causing global warming. It does not matter who was at fault. What matters is it is the sign that the end-times are coming. And you must prepare yourself to meet God.
When the disciples of Jesus asked Him about the end-times He told them a simple little parable of a fig tree. This is not one of His more complex and mysterious parables. This one is easy to understand.
When the fig tree blossoms you know that the summer is near. That "summer" is the end of the world. And that "summer" is the summer that is being caused by global warming.
Global warming is making winter more like summer every year. The winters are warming and that is throwing out of balance the delicate ecosystem of the earth. That will be catastrophic.
The main culprit is carbon dioxide. This gas is considered a greenhouse gas because it is blamed for trapping the heat of the sun in the atmosphere so the world is getting warmer as if inside a greenhouse.
The United States is the world's biggest polluter with carbon dioxide. Most of it comes from coal-fired power plants. Then American automobiles are producing another large amount of CO2.
Both these polluters can be changed relatively easily. It will not hurt the economy of the US to change the electricity sources and the cars. It will rather create new profitable industries.
But there are growing economies like China in the world that will be much harder to change. China is now producing nearly the same amount of CO2 as the US. But China has much more corruption and much fewer resources to clean things up.
So it is unlikely that the world will stop polluting soon enough to save itself. At this point no commitment to change has been made by either the US or China. And time is running out.
Because all the harmful effects of global warming are happening faster than predicted. And natural disasters like floods, droughts, tsunamis, and hurricanes are all increasing in number as well as severity, caused by the warming climate.
But there is something you can do today. You can get right with God. Jesus predicted that the end of the world would be a "summer." Now His Words ring truer than the words of any other prophet.
When you receive the Seal you will be prepared to meet God, because God will write His Name in your forehead. And when the world ends you will go to live in Heaven, your eternal home when you receive the Seal.
About the Author
And now Jason would like to invite you to get your FREE report Are You Making These Mistakes as a Christian? and "Get God's 'Seal of Approval' and Get the Victory Over Evil" Jason Witt
"100% water", the new sustainable finishing
The italian furniture company Mazzali, a real protagonist in the search advanced products and solutions for a design with low environmental impact, launched finishing "100% water."
Founded in 1962 by two experienced carpenters who saw in the wardrobe a flourishing market, Mazzali is today one of the most significant and innovative reality of the Italian furniture industry. A modern company that traces its success on flexibility and on a strong customization of the product. The offer is characterized by high quality, attention to detail, the design of research, ranging from sleeping area to living with a great proposal of finishes and infinite colors. Sustainable development, social responsibility, environmental impacts are values and commitments that characterize the entire production Mazzali: using wood reforestation program, low-emission paint solvent, improved environmental technologies, continuous research materials and solutions to reduce the impact and ensure sustainability at the production process, maximum attention to the health of consumers. Over the years, Mazzali wanted wanted to support sustainable production with initiatives in the social and environmental Mazzali celebrate in 2008, the 10 years of commitment and research in the sustainability and social responsibility. A corporate vision strongly focused on the environment and the protection of consumer health. It is 1998 when Mazzali launched "Green Island", the green brand that gathered a collection of products with low environmental impact. Of them Mazzali supply becomes increasingly rich and articulate up to embrace a broader project that involves the company as a whole, with a governance strongly oriented to a sustainable vision of the company and with a direct approach and wanted to corporate citizenship .
"100% water" is presented in 26 colours and realized on essence open pore, "100% water" features, environmental optics, for its low solvent emissions with a reduction of over 90% compared to traditional finishes. With this new finishing Mazzali confirms and reaffirms its leadership role in the field of sustainable development with an offer that articulated by the choice of raw material to the painting of the product, poses sustainability as a primary vector for growth and development.
"100% Water" boasts the LIFE brand, the EU's instrument supporting environmental and nature conservation projects, and certifications UNI EN 71-3 in the paint and to the safety of toys and 97/48/EC as paint suitable contact food for an absolute guarantee of protection of consumer health and the environment.
About the Author
Mauro Zanandrea, marketing & csr manager
Founded in 1962 by two experienced carpenters who saw in the wardrobe a flourishing market, Mazzali is today one of the most significant and innovative reality of the Italian furniture industry. A modern company that traces its success on flexibility and on a strong customization of the product. The offer is characterized by high quality, attention to detail, the design of research, ranging from sleeping area to living with a great proposal of finishes and infinite colors. Sustainable development, social responsibility, environmental impacts are values and commitments that characterize the entire production Mazzali: using wood reforestation program, low-emission paint solvent, improved environmental technologies, continuous research materials and solutions to reduce the impact and ensure sustainability at the production process, maximum attention to the health of consumers. Over the years, Mazzali wanted wanted to support sustainable production with initiatives in the social and environmental Mazzali celebrate in 2008, the 10 years of commitment and research in the sustainability and social responsibility. A corporate vision strongly focused on the environment and the protection of consumer health. It is 1998 when Mazzali launched "Green Island", the green brand that gathered a collection of products with low environmental impact. Of them Mazzali supply becomes increasingly rich and articulate up to embrace a broader project that involves the company as a whole, with a governance strongly oriented to a sustainable vision of the company and with a direct approach and wanted to corporate citizenship .
"100% water" is presented in 26 colours and realized on essence open pore, "100% water" features, environmental optics, for its low solvent emissions with a reduction of over 90% compared to traditional finishes. With this new finishing Mazzali confirms and reaffirms its leadership role in the field of sustainable development with an offer that articulated by the choice of raw material to the painting of the product, poses sustainability as a primary vector for growth and development.
"100% Water" boasts the LIFE brand, the EU's instrument supporting environmental and nature conservation projects, and certifications UNI EN 71-3 in the paint and to the safety of toys and 97/48/EC as paint suitable contact food for an absolute guarantee of protection of consumer health and the environment.
About the Author
Mauro Zanandrea, marketing & csr manager
Energy Blowing in the Wind
Wind power has long been a source of renewable energy, as evidenced by the many windmills of centuries past. The flow of air is used to run wind turbines, some of which can produce up to 5 megawatts of power. The most common wind turbines for renewable energy used commercially produce between 1.5 and 3 megawatts. The renewable energy that a wind turbine gives off is derived by the cube of the speed of the wind. As the speed of the wind increases the power that the turbine puts out increases almost exponentially. In places where wind is strong and nearly continual such as at high altitudes and offshore are the best places to locate wind farms.
Wind is the fastest growing source of power through any of the renewable energy resources and technologies. In the past ten years, the maximum capacity of wind power installed the world over went from a 1992 high of 2500 megawatts to a high of 40,000 in 2003 and continued to grow each year after that by another 30 percent. This shows no signs of abating. Due to wind being an intermittent energy resource most wind turbines in the European Union only produce an average of one fourth of the power they are actually capable of. Under favourable wind conditions, however, some reach 35 percent or more. In winter the EU realizes a higher load factor. What this means is that wind as a renewable energy in Europe typically has a capacity for 5 megawatts maximum per turbine but regularly produces 1.7 megawatts.
The long term potential for wind as a reliable renewable energy resource throughout the global is probably about five times what it currently produces and forty times what is currently demanded of it. Large pieces of land that are not now being used for wind turbines could easily do so, especially in high wind areas. The offshore areas, where wind is nearly twice as fast and dependable as that of inshore land masses could be increased substantially as renewable wind energy sources.
The strength of the wind near the surface of the earth varies considerably and scientists cannot assure that the earth would have continuous renewable wind energy there unless it was combined with other sources of energy or stored in some way. Some suggest that 1000 megawatts of the capacity for conventional wind gathering could be counted on to produce 333 megawatts of power that is continuous. This could change as our technology evolves, but most experts suggest using wind in the context of a renewable energy system that has an expansive capacity for reserving the energy. Examples of these would be hydro power, desalination plants, reserve loads and the mitigation of the economic impact of variability of resources.
Not only is wind power a renewable energy, but like other renewable energies it gives off no harmful greenhouse gases while being operated - no methane, no carbon dioxide. The one negative of wind power is that bats and birds get caught up in the turbines and get killed. Wind turbines should, therefore, be built where this impact would be least felt.
About the Author
James Copper is a writer for http://www.plumbingcareer.co.uk
Wind is the fastest growing source of power through any of the renewable energy resources and technologies. In the past ten years, the maximum capacity of wind power installed the world over went from a 1992 high of 2500 megawatts to a high of 40,000 in 2003 and continued to grow each year after that by another 30 percent. This shows no signs of abating. Due to wind being an intermittent energy resource most wind turbines in the European Union only produce an average of one fourth of the power they are actually capable of. Under favourable wind conditions, however, some reach 35 percent or more. In winter the EU realizes a higher load factor. What this means is that wind as a renewable energy in Europe typically has a capacity for 5 megawatts maximum per turbine but regularly produces 1.7 megawatts.
The long term potential for wind as a reliable renewable energy resource throughout the global is probably about five times what it currently produces and forty times what is currently demanded of it. Large pieces of land that are not now being used for wind turbines could easily do so, especially in high wind areas. The offshore areas, where wind is nearly twice as fast and dependable as that of inshore land masses could be increased substantially as renewable wind energy sources.
The strength of the wind near the surface of the earth varies considerably and scientists cannot assure that the earth would have continuous renewable wind energy there unless it was combined with other sources of energy or stored in some way. Some suggest that 1000 megawatts of the capacity for conventional wind gathering could be counted on to produce 333 megawatts of power that is continuous. This could change as our technology evolves, but most experts suggest using wind in the context of a renewable energy system that has an expansive capacity for reserving the energy. Examples of these would be hydro power, desalination plants, reserve loads and the mitigation of the economic impact of variability of resources.
Not only is wind power a renewable energy, but like other renewable energies it gives off no harmful greenhouse gases while being operated - no methane, no carbon dioxide. The one negative of wind power is that bats and birds get caught up in the turbines and get killed. Wind turbines should, therefore, be built where this impact would be least felt.
About the Author
James Copper is a writer for http://www.plumbingcareer.co.uk
Hydro Energy
Water is a renewable energy resource, and one that offers the greatest variation in power production. We can harness the water energy through what is known as motive energy or through the differences it experiences in temperature. Water is nearly one thousand times as dense as our air. What this tells us, then, is that a slow moving stream of water is more powerful, in terms of renewable energy than wind. A wave or swell of the sea can deliver many times that energy.
We have many forms of renewable water energy from which to choose. There are many forms of water energy.
The first type of water energy, and the one we most commonly think of when we think of renewable water power, is hydroelectric. This is the power that commonly is created by large hydroelectric dams.
You can also have what are called micro hydroelectric systems. These are small power installations that produce as much as 100 kilowatts of power. The most common places to find these renewable water energy sources are in areas where water is abundant and the hydro system can be used as a remote area power supply RAPS. While there are many RAPS around the globe several are functioning in the Solomon Islands.
Wave power is another way of using water as a renewable energy source. The waves are used to create an up and down affect for pontoons that float in the water. This has just started to be used commercially as renewable energy.
Tides can produce renewable energy as well. As the ocean tides come in the water level is raised in the water basin. Then, at low tide the basin water gets discharged through the water turbine. Tidal stream power is different in that it captures the energy produced by the tidal flow. This usually is accomplished through the use of an underwater plant that looks like a small-scale wind turbine. While governments have set up demonstrations for this type of tidal power, any large scale commercialization of this renewable tidal energy would require extensive upfront capital. This has yet to be attempted.
Ocean thermal energy conversion OTEC is yet another form of water energy. OTEC uses the different in temperature between the oceans surface water and the water at deeper points. To do this it uses a cyclic heat engine. This form of renewable energy has had no large scale field test as yet.
Though not technically a form of generating renewable energy the cooling of the water in deep lakes is an efficient way to save energy during the hot summer months. Pipes are submerged and used as heat sinks. The bottom of these lakes typically stays at less than 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Blue energy, which is really desalination in reverse, is a renewable energy resource still being researched. There is no data at this point to show whether it will work.
About the Author
James Copper is a writer for http://www.plumbingcareer.co.uk where you can find a plumbing course
We have many forms of renewable water energy from which to choose. There are many forms of water energy.
The first type of water energy, and the one we most commonly think of when we think of renewable water power, is hydroelectric. This is the power that commonly is created by large hydroelectric dams.
You can also have what are called micro hydroelectric systems. These are small power installations that produce as much as 100 kilowatts of power. The most common places to find these renewable water energy sources are in areas where water is abundant and the hydro system can be used as a remote area power supply RAPS. While there are many RAPS around the globe several are functioning in the Solomon Islands.
Wave power is another way of using water as a renewable energy source. The waves are used to create an up and down affect for pontoons that float in the water. This has just started to be used commercially as renewable energy.
Tides can produce renewable energy as well. As the ocean tides come in the water level is raised in the water basin. Then, at low tide the basin water gets discharged through the water turbine. Tidal stream power is different in that it captures the energy produced by the tidal flow. This usually is accomplished through the use of an underwater plant that looks like a small-scale wind turbine. While governments have set up demonstrations for this type of tidal power, any large scale commercialization of this renewable tidal energy would require extensive upfront capital. This has yet to be attempted.
Ocean thermal energy conversion OTEC is yet another form of water energy. OTEC uses the different in temperature between the oceans surface water and the water at deeper points. To do this it uses a cyclic heat engine. This form of renewable energy has had no large scale field test as yet.
Though not technically a form of generating renewable energy the cooling of the water in deep lakes is an efficient way to save energy during the hot summer months. Pipes are submerged and used as heat sinks. The bottom of these lakes typically stays at less than 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Blue energy, which is really desalination in reverse, is a renewable energy resource still being researched. There is no data at this point to show whether it will work.
About the Author
James Copper is a writer for http://www.plumbingcareer.co.uk where you can find a plumbing course
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
How to Bring Nature to the City
Well, you’ve just spent an incredibly long week at work, shut inside your cubicle working on the quarterly report. You’ve had little time outside ��" basically the time it takes you to go from your house to the car to the office and back. By the end of the week you ate your lunch from the vending machine in the lounge rather than take the time to run out to visit your favorite hot dog vendor, just to get the work done. Now that you’ve finished and are ready for a much-needed and well-deserved weekend, you head home with nothing but relaxation on your mind.
Stepping into your apartment, you are greeted with a hungry cat (did you feed Speckles this week????), a basket of dirty laundry (the elves didn’t pick it up?) and a dead houseplant. Not very inspiring.
Spruce It Up!
What to do? You’ve neither the desire nor cash to head out to the mountains for the weekend (packing, unpacking and then more laundry), but can’t see spending a dreary two days with these uninspiring surroundings. It’s easier than you think (and less expensive) to liven things up for yourself. Since you probably plan to eat this weekend and to do so must go to at least one store to get said food, take a look at what your friendly supermarket has to offer in respect to plants and flowers. Go ahead and buy yourself a bouquet. Get a big one that you can separate into smaller arrangements to spread throughout your home. Try again with the houseplants…pick out a few hardy looking ones and bring them back with you. Pick up a new watering can ��" just having something new to use can inspire you to actually use it. It’s a lot more satisfying to water the plants with a groovy little watering can than with your coffee pot.
Once you’ve returned home with your new plants or flowers, open up! Even if it’s hot or cold outside, it’s a good idea to freshen up the place with some outside air. You may only be able to keep the windows open for a little while, but it will do you and your place a world of good. (Of course this wouldn’t apply if you’re currently in the midst of a dust storm, blizzard, hurricane, or plague of frogs…I would assume that if any of these things were happening you would not be looking to bring quite THAT much nature into your surroundings…)
If you’ve the benefit of a balcony, patio, or even a communal outdoor area where you live, take advantage of it. Get out there with a lawn chair and soak up some rays. You might discover that you have one or two interesting neighbors that are worth getting to know. One of them might even have some pointers for your houseplants. You could invite them over for a drink on those cool summer nights by your toasty chimenea; or you could plan a clean-up and planting day followed by a BBQ or a glass of wine or cup of coffee. You’ll reap the benefits in more ways than one.
About the Author
Find your perfect fire pit here. Cool outdoor fire pits. 100's of fire pits. Sweet firepits.
Stepping into your apartment, you are greeted with a hungry cat (did you feed Speckles this week????), a basket of dirty laundry (the elves didn’t pick it up?) and a dead houseplant. Not very inspiring.
Spruce It Up!
What to do? You’ve neither the desire nor cash to head out to the mountains for the weekend (packing, unpacking and then more laundry), but can’t see spending a dreary two days with these uninspiring surroundings. It’s easier than you think (and less expensive) to liven things up for yourself. Since you probably plan to eat this weekend and to do so must go to at least one store to get said food, take a look at what your friendly supermarket has to offer in respect to plants and flowers. Go ahead and buy yourself a bouquet. Get a big one that you can separate into smaller arrangements to spread throughout your home. Try again with the houseplants…pick out a few hardy looking ones and bring them back with you. Pick up a new watering can ��" just having something new to use can inspire you to actually use it. It’s a lot more satisfying to water the plants with a groovy little watering can than with your coffee pot.
Once you’ve returned home with your new plants or flowers, open up! Even if it’s hot or cold outside, it’s a good idea to freshen up the place with some outside air. You may only be able to keep the windows open for a little while, but it will do you and your place a world of good. (Of course this wouldn’t apply if you’re currently in the midst of a dust storm, blizzard, hurricane, or plague of frogs…I would assume that if any of these things were happening you would not be looking to bring quite THAT much nature into your surroundings…)
If you’ve the benefit of a balcony, patio, or even a communal outdoor area where you live, take advantage of it. Get out there with a lawn chair and soak up some rays. You might discover that you have one or two interesting neighbors that are worth getting to know. One of them might even have some pointers for your houseplants. You could invite them over for a drink on those cool summer nights by your toasty chimenea; or you could plan a clean-up and planting day followed by a BBQ or a glass of wine or cup of coffee. You’ll reap the benefits in more ways than one.
About the Author
Find your perfect fire pit here. Cool outdoor fire pits. 100's of fire pits. Sweet firepits.
Safe Tree Planting, Powerlines and You
Planting Guidelines We've put together a list of helpful points on the best way to develop your garden without interfering with dangerous overhead powerlines.
* When mature, trees should not grow to within 2 metres of powerlines, that is, the powerline from the street to your home and the powerlines that run along your street or in easements (diagram 1). * Before planting on easements always contact your local electrical supplier to check if there are any special planting requirements. * If you want to plant taller plants, apply the 45-degree rule: Plant at a distance from the powerline at least equal to the expected mature height of the plant (diagram 2). * Generally, palms shouldn't be planted within 5 metres of powerlines. However, several palms are suitable to plant near powerlines. * Do not plant climbing trees or plants near the base of power poles. They can grow up into the lines and pose a safety risk or interrupt electricity supply.
Important note: High voltage powerlines have different planting guidelines. Please contact your local electrical supplier for more information.
Naturally Occurring Species When planting, ENERGEX recommends you consider species which naturally occur in a particular area. By selecting naturally occurring species whenever possible, you will be helping the environment in many ways. The Department of Natural Resources, your local Council or local environmental groups, will be able to assist you with more information.
Planting Tips To help provide your new 'powerline friendly plants' or seedlings with a good start, consider the following planting tips: 1. Check the quality of the soil the plant is to be placed in. Does the soil appear too sandy, heavy, clay or wet? If so, your local nursery can advise you how best to rectify the situation. 2. Always keep your new tree moist while it is in its nursery pot. Generally, water daily. 3. When planting, dig a hole for the plant that is twice the width and once the depth of the container the plant is currently housed in. 4. Water the hole you have dug for the plant, then let it drain slightly. 5. To remove your tree from its pot: Place your hand on top of the pot letting the stem of the plant sit between two of your fingers. Place your other hand under the pot. Turn the pot upside down, being careful not to damage or break the stem of the plant. Rotate the pot gently and lift it off. Using both hands, turn the plant upright again. 6. Back-fill the hole to the required depth. (When the plant is placed in the hole and covered with soil, the stem should enter the soil in the same place as when it was in the pot). 7. Place the plant gently in the prepared hole. 8. Fill the hole with soil and press firmly around the roots, do not use your foot to tread the soil down near the plant. (Consider using water crystals when back-filling to assist with moisture retention in soil). 9. Create a basin around the stem of the plant to help retain water. Place mulch around the planting area (however, not up against the stem of the plant). 10. When planting is complete, always water plants thoroughly. Water your new tree every second day for one to two weeks and then water and fertilise as required.
Always read and follow any care or planting instructions that accompany your new plant. The above tips are designed as planting and care guidelines only; following these tips does not guarantee that your plant will flourish. If you are concerned with the progress or health of a plant, consult your local nursery for advice.
About the Author
Energex is a leading Australian energy supplier providing valuable information on electrical safety, renewable energy sources, and clean energy.
* When mature, trees should not grow to within 2 metres of powerlines, that is, the powerline from the street to your home and the powerlines that run along your street or in easements (diagram 1). * Before planting on easements always contact your local electrical supplier to check if there are any special planting requirements. * If you want to plant taller plants, apply the 45-degree rule: Plant at a distance from the powerline at least equal to the expected mature height of the plant (diagram 2). * Generally, palms shouldn't be planted within 5 metres of powerlines. However, several palms are suitable to plant near powerlines. * Do not plant climbing trees or plants near the base of power poles. They can grow up into the lines and pose a safety risk or interrupt electricity supply.
Important note: High voltage powerlines have different planting guidelines. Please contact your local electrical supplier for more information.
Naturally Occurring Species When planting, ENERGEX recommends you consider species which naturally occur in a particular area. By selecting naturally occurring species whenever possible, you will be helping the environment in many ways. The Department of Natural Resources, your local Council or local environmental groups, will be able to assist you with more information.
Planting Tips To help provide your new 'powerline friendly plants' or seedlings with a good start, consider the following planting tips: 1. Check the quality of the soil the plant is to be placed in. Does the soil appear too sandy, heavy, clay or wet? If so, your local nursery can advise you how best to rectify the situation. 2. Always keep your new tree moist while it is in its nursery pot. Generally, water daily. 3. When planting, dig a hole for the plant that is twice the width and once the depth of the container the plant is currently housed in. 4. Water the hole you have dug for the plant, then let it drain slightly. 5. To remove your tree from its pot: Place your hand on top of the pot letting the stem of the plant sit between two of your fingers. Place your other hand under the pot. Turn the pot upside down, being careful not to damage or break the stem of the plant. Rotate the pot gently and lift it off. Using both hands, turn the plant upright again. 6. Back-fill the hole to the required depth. (When the plant is placed in the hole and covered with soil, the stem should enter the soil in the same place as when it was in the pot). 7. Place the plant gently in the prepared hole. 8. Fill the hole with soil and press firmly around the roots, do not use your foot to tread the soil down near the plant. (Consider using water crystals when back-filling to assist with moisture retention in soil). 9. Create a basin around the stem of the plant to help retain water. Place mulch around the planting area (however, not up against the stem of the plant). 10. When planting is complete, always water plants thoroughly. Water your new tree every second day for one to two weeks and then water and fertilise as required.
Always read and follow any care or planting instructions that accompany your new plant. The above tips are designed as planting and care guidelines only; following these tips does not guarantee that your plant will flourish. If you are concerned with the progress or health of a plant, consult your local nursery for advice.
About the Author
Energex is a leading Australian energy supplier providing valuable information on electrical safety, renewable energy sources, and clean energy.
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