tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66281178166648218622024-03-12T19:15:47.229-07:00Greencyclopedia™<a href="http://www.greencyclopedia.com">www.greencyclopedia.com</a>Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comBlogger104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-35084111112094255772013-09-03T14:30:00.000-07:002013-09-03T14:31:49.559-07:0050 Facts About Your Environment (for Kids!)<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Most children know some facts about the environment: they know
recycling is good, they know pollution is bad, and they know we need to take
care of the Earth if we want to continue living on it. What they may not know
is why recycling is good, how bad it could be if we didn't do it, and what
other problems there are on the planet that could lead to actions as important
as recycling. To give some context we have compiled a list of 50 facts and tips
about green living and environmentalism for kids. These are meant to give everyone a fresh
perspective of our world and exactly what it means to be green! Hopefully, with the help of our kids, we will
be able to turn all of our bad environmental practices into good ones.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtdl4w_pb5rNCNyuezoZ_pvXNGfFyPbVeLzVyun5-nY48pbVrADQzN7kZx58fNm57zA1VtQY72IRmzvj01dPVcs7p4t04_-yCZoRwtuAM0Nu96woJ3UVYEQIzCq3Ih5NDUfYSgZiwpf_M/s1600/sn_ts_041609_hdr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtdl4w_pb5rNCNyuezoZ_pvXNGfFyPbVeLzVyun5-nY48pbVrADQzN7kZx58fNm57zA1VtQY72IRmzvj01dPVcs7p4t04_-yCZoRwtuAM0Nu96woJ3UVYEQIzCq3Ih5NDUfYSgZiwpf_M/s640/sn_ts_041609_hdr.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Recycling</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The average North American uses 700 lbs. of paper a
year. This equals approximately 465
trees per person, just for paper! <a href="http://www.greenenergysavingtips.com/recycling-facts-for-kids/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Recycled paper only creates 25% of the pollution that new
paper creates when making it into new products.
<a href="http://www.greenenergysavingtips.com/recycling-facts-for-kids/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A glass bottle will take 40,000 years to decompose if
it’s not recycled. <a href="http://www.greenenergysavingtips.com/recycling-facts-for-kids/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Recycling a single aluminium can will save enough
electricity to power a TV for three hours.
<a href="http://www.greenenergysavingtips.com/recycling-facts-for-kids/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink">The United States throws away enough
iron and steel to supply all auto-makers continuously. </span><a href="http://www.kionrightnow.com/story/14301726/fun-going-green-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_dZiyOQcpMqh9NLMvrHsh2At3ubvDwAThq1Ohh3ici6L8xJTnMqaMLzBx7QVw8Vt2DcPFHYs7Of4iTBEKOUPll8eR8vpEp4CcGYGAWNqU8QgacXgsc_3AWXQHulUq7Hzoz-6fEQoVAa4/s1600/earth_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_dZiyOQcpMqh9NLMvrHsh2At3ubvDwAThq1Ohh3ici6L8xJTnMqaMLzBx7QVw8Vt2DcPFHYs7Of4iTBEKOUPll8eR8vpEp4CcGYGAWNqU8QgacXgsc_3AWXQHulUq7Hzoz-6fEQoVAa4/s320/earth_2.jpg" width="247" /></a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Enough aluminium cans are thrown away
each year in the United States</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Recycle your newspaper.
The Sunday edition of the New York Times takes 75,000 trees to print. <a href="http://www.greeninbklyn.com/639/what-to-do-or-ten-green-facts/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In 1993, the United States had more paper recycled than
was thrown into a landfill, the first year this landmark ever occurred! <a href="http://www.greenenergysavingtips.com/recycling-facts-for-kids/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Recycling a single glass bottle will save enough energy
to power a light bulb for four hours. <a href="http://www.greeninbklyn.com/639/what-to-do-or-ten-green-facts/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">1987, California began a beverage container recycling
program. Today, they have recycled over
120 billion bottles and cans, enough to circle the Earth 375 times! <a href="http://unicycler.com/go_green/fun_stuff/recycle_facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXzsJy535CL_OyfDBwsQSja7E5mRBMNokavs-pRxfZIgN8va-JrsBZanNU-nvrtWn9A20r0w-SBn-zjbjg2jx2Y9Rsfjf6wKnWDYS6o_VFoVKEBIl5rOyGstJRbffcvfvFG-8_2od3TE/s1600/products-gallery-three-kids-recycling-bin-waste-watcher-series-recycling-container_468x364.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkXzsJy535CL_OyfDBwsQSja7E5mRBMNokavs-pRxfZIgN8va-JrsBZanNU-nvrtWn9A20r0w-SBn-zjbjg2jx2Y9Rsfjf6wKnWDYS6o_VFoVKEBIl5rOyGstJRbffcvfvFG-8_2od3TE/s320/products-gallery-three-kids-recycling-bin-waste-watcher-series-recycling-container_468x364.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Plastic take 450 years just to begin decomposing. It takes another 50 to 80 years to be
completely decomposed. This also means
that every single piece of plastic even made has not even started to decompose. <a href="http://greenbuzzz.net/environment/20-interesting-facts-about-plastics/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It only takes 25 recycled plastic bottles to make a brand
new fleece jacket. <a href="http://greenbuzzz.net/environment/20-interesting-facts-about-plastics/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Enough steel and tin cans are thrown out daily in the
United States to make a pipe from Los Angeles to New York, twice. If a tenth of these cans were recycled, it
would equal 3.2 billion cans recycled each year. <a href="http://www.kionrightnow.com/story/14301726/fun-going-green-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Only 1% of plastic shopping bags are recycled. <a href="http://www.kionrightnow.com/story/14301726/fun-going-green-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Most plastic bags they go into landfills do not stay
there. They are caught by the wind and
enter trees, oceans, and other parts of nature.
<a href="http://www.kionrightnow.com/story/14301726/fun-going-green-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When a newspaper is recycled, it takes only seven days
from to become a brand new newspaper! <a href="http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/kidsgogreen/fact-zone/paper-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">All newspapers in the United Kingdom at 100% recycled
paper. <a href="http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/kidsgogreen/fact-zone/paper-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Many clothing companies now use recycled materials in
their clothes. Check their labels to see
if you’re buying clothes that were once something else! <a href="http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/kidsgogreen/fact-zone/textile-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJTgsWigBhLbZwYCFEv2wqoplHkV8_oZDgBTAfSYk-ao2GurhM1w4xJzCbK18NZ1jiCF8nDKaV_pF_L34BqmUQz2kIzTbRdr5hrIyup4kH-AvanLpZuqGQtbjwbJJvceZ5hKrkyzfYo90/s1600/6a00e553e967d58834013482f372e1970c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJTgsWigBhLbZwYCFEv2wqoplHkV8_oZDgBTAfSYk-ao2GurhM1w4xJzCbK18NZ1jiCF8nDKaV_pF_L34BqmUQz2kIzTbRdr5hrIyup4kH-AvanLpZuqGQtbjwbJJvceZ5hKrkyzfYo90/s640/6a00e553e967d58834013482f372e1970c.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Reusing</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxquP_rzRJRo7cjklSfpQA4lJTrWqKOIhekqlXtI9wFdNexhovAkw5Tk16uMPjlNFdOy9FVpARpPJ1GvXZD14CYUqZpihQoj6hMlD_lATIQ673fEqAVeBznaLsAHFFkPd0CABy64_v2Zs/s1600/tumblr_lxd0mhhkzd1r6hffko1_500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxquP_rzRJRo7cjklSfpQA4lJTrWqKOIhekqlXtI9wFdNexhovAkw5Tk16uMPjlNFdOy9FVpARpPJ1GvXZD14CYUqZpihQoj6hMlD_lATIQ673fEqAVeBznaLsAHFFkPd0CABy64_v2Zs/s200/tumblr_lxd0mhhkzd1r6hffko1_500.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiogVSRk2eQZrjKj1G_rrNyfvqv6_EYXNqZ1zcJKXrMKlhQhiBdju7KwfD0eZZdqRG_nzqxrP7oks-iM4FJeemVB7SmUIvhHkyEqXj_ymFX1n8QAMIungTDCwxFm5s6dG-Reee5tEABW2A/s1600/recycled-gold.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiogVSRk2eQZrjKj1G_rrNyfvqv6_EYXNqZ1zcJKXrMKlhQhiBdju7KwfD0eZZdqRG_nzqxrP7oks-iM4FJeemVB7SmUIvhHkyEqXj_ymFX1n8QAMIungTDCwxFm5s6dG-Reee5tEABW2A/s200/recycled-gold.jpg" width="156" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Just because you’re finished with a toy doesn’t mean that
another kid won’t enjoy it. Donating
your old toys is a great way to save the environment and make another child
happy. <a href="http://www.livestrong.com/article/155116-going-green-facts-for-kids/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In one person’s lifetime, using a cloth bag will save
over 22,000 plastic bags! </span><a href="http://www.kionrightnow.com/story/14301726/fun-going-green-facts" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Learn more.</i></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Just because you stopped wearing old clothes doesn’t mean
that someone else can’t benefit from it.
Donate you old clothes that are still in good shape to a shelter or
charity. <a href="http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/kidsgogreen/fact-zone/textile-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The zinc in old cellphones can be used to build
ships. <a href="http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/kidsgogreen/fact-zone/electrical-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Your old video game consoles have gold. They can be recycled into new jewellery and
other fine items. <a href="http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/kidsgogreen/fact-zone/electrical-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Water</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">40% of drinking water comes from plastic bottles. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><a href="http://greenbuzzz.net/environment/20-interesting-facts-about-plastics/">Learn more.</a></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Earth’s surface is 70% water, but many people go
without access to fresh water every day.
Turning the faucet off when you’re brushing your teeth and taking
quicker showers will use less water and leave more for others to use. <a href="http://www.livestrong.com/article/155116-going-green-facts-for-kids/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://greenbuzzz.net/environment/20-interesting-facts-about-plastics/"><i></i></a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI6QBkOACDOoa5TMjiwnP9poG2dy0j_1fmQYaGxFDwECsk2HNqen7yAT93Yqw0cpSOs4sLqeMvQMyn6kI2wNbCX5Qex0g_vqK1ptiEif8Ufe-a-3yo3UVSWITgCAhmaHVgWvzLmkDV7NA/s1600/o-WORLD-WATER-DAY-2013-FACTS-facebook.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI6QBkOACDOoa5TMjiwnP9poG2dy0j_1fmQYaGxFDwECsk2HNqen7yAT93Yqw0cpSOs4sLqeMvQMyn6kI2wNbCX5Qex0g_vqK1ptiEif8Ufe-a-3yo3UVSWITgCAhmaHVgWvzLmkDV7NA/s640/o-WORLD-WATER-DAY-2013-FACTS-facebook.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Saving</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHxcxext078Sv47plDi_BRVD0PQyf-508k9z9whV6TZPuJ_v9YNUBJnwzVa9FJyD9tgyb5PooTNArRm9jswVo89A0aLhDMN4Lfrd8-YbfioHvohXgLGdcEZ09BSziUq5Z7ffeguy76cjo/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHxcxext078Sv47plDi_BRVD0PQyf-508k9z9whV6TZPuJ_v9YNUBJnwzVa9FJyD9tgyb5PooTNArRm9jswVo89A0aLhDMN4Lfrd8-YbfioHvohXgLGdcEZ09BSziUq5Z7ffeguy76cjo/s1600/download.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Turning your home’s thermostat down by a single degree
can save your family 8% in heating costs.
<a href="http://www.greeninbklyn.com/639/what-to-do-or-ten-green-facts/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Using energy efficient appliances can save enough money
from less electricity usage that it can pay for the entire appliance! <a href="http://www.greeninbklyn.com/639/what-to-do-or-ten-green-facts/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Every three months, people in the United States throw
away enough aluminium cans that they could rebuild all the airplanes in the
country. <a href="http://www.greeninbklyn.com/639/what-to-do-or-ten-green-facts/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">13 billion plastic bags are made every year, about 300
per adult. Use cloth bags to help reduce
the number of plastic bags made. <a href="http://greenbuzzz.net/environment/20-interesting-facts-about-plastics/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgepRY8jJve77yVso-yyrQmFsdIo0ovxW6DPVovyFHhKU40bhUSgY2R-eotKtKaUMbQtD9d1VbtiQyQNnkPtUVeuIaHgZ-V7rP-Ln_34PWTYm-m6vdzviSsnUAm0zadNKC5uSJ-tcNKepc/s1600/kids-planting-a-tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgepRY8jJve77yVso-yyrQmFsdIo0ovxW6DPVovyFHhKU40bhUSgY2R-eotKtKaUMbQtD9d1VbtiQyQNnkPtUVeuIaHgZ-V7rP-Ln_34PWTYm-m6vdzviSsnUAm0zadNKC5uSJ-tcNKepc/s320/kids-planting-a-tree.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">By recycling paper and cardboard, the United Kingdom is
able to save 11 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions from ever being
created each year! That equals the
exhaust of 3.5 million cars! <a href="http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/kidsgogreen/fact-zone/paper-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For every tonnes of paper recycled, 17 trees are
saved. <a href="http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/kidsgogreen/fact-zone/paper-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Paper bags are not really better than plastic bags. Approximately 14 million tress are cut down
each year for paper bags. Remember to
use your cloth bags! <a href="http://www.kionrightnow.com/story/14301726/fun-going-green-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The state of California spends $300 million just on
cleaning garbage from their beaches. Try
to do your part and pick up after yourself!
<a href="http://www.kionrightnow.com/story/14301726/fun-going-green-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixs0Idb8WiJu4H-lvylwugrbG6fGVBIQPitieojbBfGbx6rDBBfetk7oFuidm0zcApzCii7setb5Fb9Bs71b62SzesIVaeIruGry6qgfOA8-vDlEMy18_Cp3N0di2tSmK1wcJvThxADIA/s1600/kids-dif-header.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixs0Idb8WiJu4H-lvylwugrbG6fGVBIQPitieojbBfGbx6rDBBfetk7oFuidm0zcApzCii7setb5Fb9Bs71b62SzesIVaeIruGry6qgfOA8-vDlEMy18_Cp3N0di2tSmK1wcJvThxADIA/s640/kids-dif-header.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Science and Nature</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">1.6 billion people do not have access to electricity. <a href="http://www.compassion.com/poverty/environment.htm"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7nAC3Q1p9hEP4FjohETLPzmQMNcyNNFAXSKDVelxKqCP0ab-Kqm7Hoa-l1aga7AFEwTkqoNLz06ztizpPmoyIXa4is1YLx72Wkxg5-GLNXw480fhiA4ZB1YrSZs_jQRlLwhiTWkqZFI/s1600/mindware-green-science-kits.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR7nAC3Q1p9hEP4FjohETLPzmQMNcyNNFAXSKDVelxKqCP0ab-Kqm7Hoa-l1aga7AFEwTkqoNLz06ztizpPmoyIXa4is1YLx72Wkxg5-GLNXw480fhiA4ZB1YrSZs_jQRlLwhiTWkqZFI/s320/mindware-green-science-kits.jpg" width="313" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">2.5 billion people do not have access to proper
sanitation. <a href="http://www.compassion.com/poverty/environment.htm"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink">Almost 1 billion people don’t have
enough to eat. </span><a href="http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/kidsgogreen/fact-zone/food-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink">The United States generates enough
garbage each year that the garbage trucks used would stretch halfway to the
moon. </span><a href="http://unicycler.com/go_green/fun_stuff/recycle_facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Food scraps and other organic garbage creates methane, a
greenhouse gas 20 times stronger than carbon dioxide. <a href="http://unicycler.com/go_green/fun_stuff/recycle_facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The United Kingdom uses enough paper each year to
deforest an area the size of the country of Wales! <a href="http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/kidsgogreen/fact-zone/paper-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">What Can I Do</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Remember to Reuse, Reduce, and Recycle. There is a reason we say these in this
order. We always want to reuse things
first. If we can’t, then we try to
reduce what we use. Recycling is the
final step where we give out old things to someone else to make new
things. <a href="http://www.rethinkeurope.co.uk/Kids-Facts-About-Recycling"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Turn off the water when brushing your teeth. The more people who turn off water faucets
when not in use, the more water there is for emergencies. <a href="http://www.indiaparenting.com/raising-children/253_3470/environmental-tips-for-kids.html"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD-Jnw97K9TdAZKsxWlIyK4fcDZEy770V_Qe9zOI0OUkbAw7l237qz9BDU0extrKEsFs9lmpeYcUSrHDr0ncw7-xbWU8tymeD7LFu4S75kO-wtjBbcAyHdIZHbAK_p_2ID5jRp5XRoqLM/s1600/MP900400732.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD-Jnw97K9TdAZKsxWlIyK4fcDZEy770V_Qe9zOI0OUkbAw7l237qz9BDU0extrKEsFs9lmpeYcUSrHDr0ncw7-xbWU8tymeD7LFu4S75kO-wtjBbcAyHdIZHbAK_p_2ID5jRp5XRoqLM/s640/MP900400732.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Turn of lights when you leave a room. If no one is in a room, there is no reason
for a light to be on. <a href="http://www.indiaparenting.com/raising-children/253_3470/environmental-tips-for-kids.html"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Play outside.
Video games and computers use a lot of energy and have you sitting all
day. Be active outdoors and use less
energy, have more fun, and be more fit! <a href="http://www.indiaparenting.com/raising-children/253_3470/environmental-tips-for-kids.html"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Print on both sides of the paper when using your
computer’s printer. You will only end up
using half the paper you normally do! <i><a href="http://www.indiaparenting.com/raising-children/253_3470/environmental-tips-for-kids.html">Learn more.</a></i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyvlTK9Gs4yQinRRktYmAwbyyUbewWhdoxompJXJiZ2Kj_3NHeSIVUJ-hmQcvpSBwkRDOJYbJo_d_wDDNRPGCkbWeF90tO4hk_Ih8AjCV8umnvZ_hKrvUA3uG4nU3fH0MPNI5ha-fvfKY/s1600/little-girl-making-sandwich.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyvlTK9Gs4yQinRRktYmAwbyyUbewWhdoxompJXJiZ2Kj_3NHeSIVUJ-hmQcvpSBwkRDOJYbJo_d_wDDNRPGCkbWeF90tO4hk_Ih8AjCV8umnvZ_hKrvUA3uG4nU3fH0MPNI5ha-fvfKY/s640/little-girl-making-sandwich.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">A child will create 67 lbs. of garbage per year just from
using a disposable lunch. Make your own
lunches from home using reusable containers.
</span><a href="http://unicycler.com/go_green/fun_stuff/recycle_facts" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i>Learn more.</i></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For your school lunch, use a reusable lunch box and
thermos. Wash it at night and its ready
to go for tomorrow! <a href="http://www.ehow.com/facts_5437372_going-green-kids.html"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Carpooling to school, extracurricular activities, and
friends’ houses will lower greenhouse gas emissions from vehicles. <a href="http://www.ehow.com/facts_5437372_going-green-kids.html"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6628117816664821862" name="_GoBack"></a>Start being a green kid now. The habits you create will last as you grow
up into an adult. <a href="http://www.brightgreentalent.com/green-living/going-green-facts/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0000ee; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><u><br /></u></i></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.brightgreentalent.com/green-living/going-green-facts/"><i></i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_sVcdQHWWAuw5xnIPIBJv5pFFLJWWP38p90E1bwGAPxZdVQXYJfuGcqQLJ04lT40ZI5H0mxyJEIKmz3HR2gre62_p5k_KWPbhFdUuQCxj4RwDAEVbYhM15VN2B0AwVkbEiicQeTakv3Q/s1600/carpool-kids.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_sVcdQHWWAuw5xnIPIBJv5pFFLJWWP38p90E1bwGAPxZdVQXYJfuGcqQLJ04lT40ZI5H0mxyJEIKmz3HR2gre62_p5k_KWPbhFdUuQCxj4RwDAEVbYhM15VN2B0AwVkbEiicQeTakv3Q/s640/carpool-kids.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Use a compost.
Over 30% of all garbage thrown away could go to better use in
composting. <a href="http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/kidsgogreen/fact-zone/garden-waste-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">On average, people buy three new electronic devices each
year. Remember to recycle or sell your
old devices instead of throwing them in the garbage. <i><a href="http://your.caerphilly.gov.uk/kidsgogreen/fact-zone/electrical-facts">Learn more.</a></i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGnweX2cJ3D1kXK3SPHa_KMchQZnoFYjVxWtawc96uBXEldl7Fht_-UjXlDRsqdpVvO33qL1JJO5NvZhfxOo57Ix83_RWj0NmsOCiD5sVGNKiYfMQ3c8Qx_gT6cOouww9x5pFtJtvggoM/s1600/1584_3046_file_eng.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="343" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGnweX2cJ3D1kXK3SPHa_KMchQZnoFYjVxWtawc96uBXEldl7Fht_-UjXlDRsqdpVvO33qL1JJO5NvZhfxOo57Ix83_RWj0NmsOCiD5sVGNKiYfMQ3c8Qx_gT6cOouww9x5pFtJtvggoM/s400/1584_3046_file_eng.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="line-height: 200%;">Additional Sources: </span><a href="http://www.scholastic.com/browse/article.jsp?id=3751746">Scholastic</a>, <a href="http://www.arborday.org/kids/kidsDif.cfm">Arbor Day Kids</a>, <a href="http://library.strathamnh.gov/Pages/StrathamLibrary_Children/elementary?textPage=1">Stratham Library</a>, <a href="http://www.bryancarlindmd.com/dental-procedures/dental-cleanings-and-prevention/home-dental-care/">Home Dental</a>, <a href="http://alcoa.typepad.com/recycling/2010/06/recycle-guys-reach-out-to-nc-school-children.html">Alcoa Recycling</a>, <a href="http://www.buschsystems.com/recycling-waste-container-bin-cart-products/waste-watcher-series-recycling-containers">Busch Systems</a>, <a href="http://www.dogonews.com/2012/4/26/researchers-discover-huge-underground-water-reserves-in-africa">Africa</a>, </span><a href="http://www.sheknows.com/food-and-recipes/articles/820323/7-tips-for-packing-healthy-kids-lunches-during-the-holidays">She Knows</a>, <a href="http://dewsonschool.wordpress.com/2011/01/">Dewson School</a></div>
Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-53827799325608989882013-08-26T09:58:00.000-07:002013-08-26T10:18:36.384-07:00Sustainable Travel: Easy Tips to Minimize Your Eco-Footprint<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">With summer officially upon us many of us are thinking of our next travel
adventure. When booking your great escape, take a moment to consider your vacation’s
environmental impact. With sustainable travel a rapidly growing industry there
are ample resources for travellers seeking ways to trek lightly. Here we
outline easily implemented yet valuable steps to reduce your ecological
footprint, whether touring a remote island or relaxing in your own backyard.</span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8QRQBm_dErTgeZC7c3u3qeXugAyqMRff1rl8P-JcS2kBtfNBAEL-W3O_czMiGSWEL3f3E3Js2JW8r0XegyPwPMrZ5QXVWhNKQ7W9lppOVGP9CiKoIjWzHxm1NQEcPpMe9kzRIB4rL64/s1600/Tofino-Rush-hour_001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie8QRQBm_dErTgeZC7c3u3qeXugAyqMRff1rl8P-JcS2kBtfNBAEL-W3O_czMiGSWEL3f3E3Js2JW8r0XegyPwPMrZ5QXVWhNKQ7W9lppOVGP9CiKoIjWzHxm1NQEcPpMe9kzRIB4rL64/s640/Tofino-Rush-hour_001.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Before Leaving Home</span></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1HeELD-01cqrACd8DcmZYDQ2OPH3HKwKv5bJtSROATuA8BbqUtTIppxhClAaFGCY7DtMjoPvjglTmMfeXhLvmb1c-G5pgZbPG0poOQasQYiKH4P175LwG99MANoEQPOMnVeFAx9U2D04/s1600/turn-down-thermostat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1HeELD-01cqrACd8DcmZYDQ2OPH3HKwKv5bJtSROATuA8BbqUtTIppxhClAaFGCY7DtMjoPvjglTmMfeXhLvmb1c-G5pgZbPG0poOQasQYiKH4P175LwG99MANoEQPOMnVeFAx9U2D04/s320/turn-down-thermostat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Before heading off on your trip unplug
appliances to reduce Standby Power, energy used when appliances are in standby
mode. (Global Standby Power consumes up to 480 TWh/year, nearly triple Mexico’s
total electricity consumption.) Turn off or lower thermostat and water heater
settings and suspend newspaper delivery. Such measures will help you save
energy and money. Lastly, leave pets at a shelter or with a sitter. <br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Transportation</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Vacationing need not be distant or exotic
to be memorable and fun. “Staycationing” is the easiest way to save money and
the environment. By vacationing within driving distance and overnighting at
home you not only support your local economy and save money on accommodation
but also help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJTwZUfPPtzEpsi84ewthQwfdlT1GdQqlqDD4_L6zfy-kPtEy7i1v4hEcVjCD1pzlUJZucII3qe_ngcf8O7YXtwUjHnTCX53acwwb9hYaTI5BA4ihz0MO47rl4jkexkR6h-PgOEOAeI-w/s1600/web_Sustainable_travel_hierarchy_3col692.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="110" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJTwZUfPPtzEpsi84ewthQwfdlT1GdQqlqDD4_L6zfy-kPtEy7i1v4hEcVjCD1pzlUJZucII3qe_ngcf8O7YXtwUjHnTCX53acwwb9hYaTI5BA4ihz0MO47rl4jkexkR6h-PgOEOAeI-w/s400/web_Sustainable_travel_hierarchy_3col692.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US"><br />
But whether home or away, try to opt for greener or shared modes of
transportation such as trains or buses. If renting a vehicle select a hybrid or
low emissions compact model. Compared to other forms of transportation, planes
produce the most emissions. To reduce your travel footprint, fly in the
daytime, fly direct or combine flights and pack light. Finally, purchase <a href="mailto:https://sustainabletravel.org/utilities/carbon-calculator/">carbon
offsets</a> to counteract the environmental impact of your plane’s emissions. </span><i><span lang="EN-US">(Learn more about
airplane emissions in our article about </span></i><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/07/the-green-passport-initiative-changing.html"><i>The Green Passport Initiative</i></a></span><i><span lang="EN-US">!)</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie-_ZVsANV8XX4PE6ZLVSCYkMP2J0KPbHi3saNyrSsQ8QVjB4mD4jnc1VpE1xO8Uloi1c99QW2X7Gul3eCGd03GDlSdngFmZhUripN6Mf2T6UVJTEfvQOgYK_Dqe-Pz9IxwnaliQtG0V8/s1600/freight+comparison-IPCC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie-_ZVsANV8XX4PE6ZLVSCYkMP2J0KPbHi3saNyrSsQ8QVjB4mD4jnc1VpE1xO8Uloi1c99QW2X7Gul3eCGd03GDlSdngFmZhUripN6Mf2T6UVJTEfvQOgYK_Dqe-Pz9IxwnaliQtG0V8/s400/freight+comparison-IPCC.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><br /><span lang="EN-US"></span></i></span></div>
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</div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Accommodation</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3nwgUZeYv4zrpA4kGLrEHeYBNCx_7tteyOpyi-fRTegOrLj2dowgE6TqVNWKIvJcyhb2OcUB3NXXxwwr-ThMQb9T24RFRP9ZYf18IMi6KiMv6XB5bhJ2-BixGZEcMTPqMoLQyMZ-7vmI/s1600/green_seal_logo_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3nwgUZeYv4zrpA4kGLrEHeYBNCx_7tteyOpyi-fRTegOrLj2dowgE6TqVNWKIvJcyhb2OcUB3NXXxwwr-ThMQb9T24RFRP9ZYf18IMi6KiMv6XB5bhJ2-BixGZEcMTPqMoLQyMZ-7vmI/s200/green_seal_logo_1.jpg" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In selecting accommodation, look for
certified green hotels that carry Green Seal, LEED, Blue Flag or equivalent
designation. Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Saint-Hyacinthe, Quebec
provide a visual breakdown of criteria that make them LEED certified. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Travel websites like Travelocity
maintain a <a href="mailto:http://www.travelocity.ca/TravelForGood/gr-directory.html">directory</a>
of certified green accommodation and multiple ecotourism websites like the <a href="mailto:http://www.rainforest-alliance.org/green-living/travel">Rain
Forest Alliance</a>, <a href="mailto:http://greenglobe.com/">Green Globe</a>
and <a href="http://www.ecotourismtravel.com/">Sustainable Travel
International</a> list earth-friendly tour operators and travel
companies. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrj4ztGXYfdOinmNh-BkbEvPEGblWOtSPERAWJFHLACxaK3YFoxUJCFIZGfMPGn1FiRTDzIMhfgokKA5FqFOMSGh7NGqRA0PnCozc4vZCVolCy3c7SvY9-t0lOjl_WkEpveS98zp8bt3Q/s1600/CaGBC-logo_new+(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrj4ztGXYfdOinmNh-BkbEvPEGblWOtSPERAWJFHLACxaK3YFoxUJCFIZGfMPGn1FiRTDzIMhfgokKA5FqFOMSGh7NGqRA0PnCozc4vZCVolCy3c7SvY9-t0lOjl_WkEpveS98zp8bt3Q/s200/CaGBC-logo_new+(3).jpg" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">While staying in a hotel there are
several simple steps to you can take to reduce your footprint. Be active in
your hotel’s environmental conservation program. When out the room, turn lights
off and lower your room’s thermostat. Close drapes and blinds in warmer climates
to keep the room cool and the opposite in cold climates. Leave unopened
bathroom amenities in the hotel. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Conserve water by turning off taps when
not in use and taking shorter showers. Hand wash clothes in the bathroom sink
and hang to dry. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">Many hotel bathrooms include retractable
clotheslines mounted between bathtub walls for this express purpose! When
shopping for souvenirs buy locally produced goods and avoid goods made from </span><span lang="EN-US">endangered species or</span><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span class="green"><span lang="EN-US">valuable, historical or cultural
artifacts.</span></span><span lang="EN-US"> </span><span class="green"><span lang="EN-US"><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ZnLrXImFV8RFZJhKp1Z_TNn1MRkAJnrldyEEYkxmznSPbi0Ff5RYZd0r3hEjX6175fduMh8put99G48lvoarhO0U7QC6ZQNso1BPiR9ad6UCYmep3bbfWhAQzh0l8oHp6dBMRE5zVQY/s1600/1-staycation.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3ZnLrXImFV8RFZJhKp1Z_TNn1MRkAJnrldyEEYkxmznSPbi0Ff5RYZd0r3hEjX6175fduMh8put99G48lvoarhO0U7QC6ZQNso1BPiR9ad6UCYmep3bbfWhAQzh0l8oHp6dBMRE5zVQY/s640/1-staycation.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Activities</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-4ALajv7Pd5Y7F6_gaBl-DvyGuw90ION93s3motBxuFoL76cC4E8EyE4MqIYDCMiDyqf6JDobWgHzGT6fZo_wjbnmpHJtS4lSawEk9rLWDzp2sRIJs59DWsplTNooMRbrY9YDdRXMISg/s1600/mtl-bixi-cbc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-4ALajv7Pd5Y7F6_gaBl-DvyGuw90ION93s3motBxuFoL76cC4E8EyE4MqIYDCMiDyqf6JDobWgHzGT6fZo_wjbnmpHJtS4lSawEk9rLWDzp2sRIJs59DWsplTNooMRbrY9YDdRXMISg/s320/mtl-bixi-cbc.jpg" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Local, sustainable tourist activities support
the environment and local economies. Visit farms, participate in guided walking
tours or wine tasting, hike local park trails or take a cooking class. Gather
activity ideas from travel guides like <a href="mailto:http://shop.lonelyplanet.com/">Lonely Planet</a> that are available
in digital format and use digital maps or applications. As much as possible self-propel:
walk, rent a bicycle, or support a community bike-share program like Bixi. Alternatively,
use local public transit systems, many of which now have real-time schedules
available via mobile app. <br />
<br />
Reduce plastic waste by carrying a reusable water bottle. Use local recycling
facilities and carry trash until you can properly dispose of it – i.e. pack out
what you pack in! Stay on marked trails when hiking or camping and refrain from
disturbing local flora and fauna.<br />
<br />
Regardless of your destination be mindful of your impact both culturally and
environmentally. Seek to educate yourself on local traditions, practices, and
culture and environment; limit any negative impacts you may have on the local
environment. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Practicing any of these simple measures
you will easily have a fun, memorable and sustainable vacation. Happy travels!</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUc3CRXvFwtvNoqacWu-ls3Xeer9FHLG6DM-f0PystvG2Dwy0MY2ldJtrR6Ot-kaLw-UCbRRMoTMHqwvPnS4cwLgtC3jRJuWzHlfAJeyYy2Q2GGo6twJ7H2rVzK7fw-EoyWbkMV2_Cy4I/s1600/Langley-Circle-Farm-Tour-Mijune-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUc3CRXvFwtvNoqacWu-ls3Xeer9FHLG6DM-f0PystvG2Dwy0MY2ldJtrR6Ot-kaLw-UCbRRMoTMHqwvPnS4cwLgtC3jRJuWzHlfAJeyYy2Q2GGo6twJ7H2rVzK7fw-EoyWbkMV2_Cy4I/s640/Langley-Circle-Farm-Tour-Mijune-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Sources: <a href="http://www.blueflag.org/">Blue
Flag</a>, <a href="http://www.cagbc.org/">CaGBC</a>, <a href="http://www.davidsuzuki.org/">David Suzuki Foundation</a>, <a href="http://epa.gov/">epa.gov</a>, <a href="http://greenglobe.com/">Green
Globe</a>, <a href="http://www.greenseal.org/">Green Seal</a>, <a href="http://shop.lonelyplanet.com/">Lonely Planet</a>, <a href="http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/equipment/electronics/13431%23intro02">Natural
Resources Canada</a>, <a href="http://www.rainforest-alliance.org/green-living/travel">Rainforest
Alliance</a>, <a href="http://sustainabletravel.org/">Sustainable Travel
International</a>, <a href="http://www.travelocity.ca/TravelForGood/gr-directory.html">Travelocity</a>,
<a href="http://www.unesco.org/education/tlsf/mods/theme_c/mod16.html">UNESCO</a>,
<a href="http://wwf.panda.org/how_you_can_help/live_green/travel/">WWF</a>, <a href="http://www.yale.edu/yalecollege/international/sustainability/resources.html">Yale
University</a></span></span></div>
Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-69566307401585356782013-08-23T13:09:00.001-07:002013-08-23T13:10:25.260-07:0050 Facts About Your Environment<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPouyTF3d1CYjr5d-ZK3EvLYoXXP3G_ypvALO_gXFVszzhtDPX0XO-d4yqe55BWHgNbNPm6J7Eo4dBCHgtZqCHzqR3YQQ3JDV92WX12dt3rY1XMDZly4eztDptBUk9GUNOc9GeHbzGhx0/s1600/green_light_bulb.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPouyTF3d1CYjr5d-ZK3EvLYoXXP3G_ypvALO_gXFVszzhtDPX0XO-d4yqe55BWHgNbNPm6J7Eo4dBCHgtZqCHzqR3YQQ3JDV92WX12dt3rY1XMDZly4eztDptBUk9GUNOc9GeHbzGhx0/s200/green_light_bulb.gif" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As people become more aware of our changing environment and
their part within it, the interest in information and facts on environmental
and green issues has grown. We have put
together a list of 50 such facts, titbits, and pieces of information. We hope that you will enjoy learning about
our world, the environment, and how we all interact with it! </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Environment</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The global area of oxygen depleted dead zone now covers an
area roughly the size of the state of Oregon.
These are areas of water that have become uninhabitable due to a lack of
oxygen for marine life to breathe. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://webecoist.momtastic.com/2008/11/26/amazing-frightening-green-facts-environmental-statistics/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The air quality in China is so low that by European Union
standards, only 1% of the population is breathing air that is considered
safe. This has led to cancer becoming
the main cause of death in China. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://webecoist.momtastic.com/2008/11/26/amazing-frightening-green-facts-environmental-statistics/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6JNcLETAjLToCc46VakD-W6AwJ9NHE07Pn7XcuuxiOk96xqgsRow4gLDuJGAVwPSHV6NEPAvzX4pCTwvYW3_Wy6VOKBH2aZgWaA483UJZpUSHwCciNu_CRlH9ZYUGUOxxnZa6J_8uhII/s1600/Patch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6JNcLETAjLToCc46VakD-W6AwJ9NHE07Pn7XcuuxiOk96xqgsRow4gLDuJGAVwPSHV6NEPAvzX4pCTwvYW3_Wy6VOKBH2aZgWaA483UJZpUSHwCciNu_CRlH9ZYUGUOxxnZa6J_8uhII/s320/Patch.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Pacific Ocean is home to various island chains, the
Great Barrier Reef, beautiful resorts … and the Great Pacific Garbage
Patch. This is a mass of waste and
garbage that has formed, covering an area twice the size of the continental
United States and weighing an approximate 100 million tons. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://webecoist.momtastic.com/2008/11/26/amazing-frightening-green-facts-environmental-statistics/">Learn more.</a> </i></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;">In the last 100 years, ocean levels
have risen by almost 18 cm. They had not
changed previously in over 2,000 years. </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.dosomething.org/actnow/tipsandtools/11-facts-about-global-warming"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There are many clothing material alternatives today. Cork has been used as a leather alternative,
bamboo grows quickly enough to replenish itself, and silk made from soy is
being used in high fashion. All of these
use no chemicals and are renewable material resources. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.dosomething.org/tipsandtools/11-types-eco-friendly-clothing"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For every organic cotton t-shirt you purchase instead of a
normal manufactured one, you help eliminate the need for 150 grams of
agricultural chemicals. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://planetforward.ca/blog/green-tips/">Learn more.</a> </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiILjOs7kWp7mvHQDY1izI4PhXCU2CFtl6O4VyXiSnK77RykZN1Fs2677uWfr5H_4Pe66JfF28cSyzhb5CsvleVQ2tMsIySK_hKv-zjWuZyo8u-6ikQYzUxnHiAeveDN5yoU4-yls7e-O4/s1600/1fb10ddf-f95e-4a72-85cb-02c4ade2b922.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="354" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiILjOs7kWp7mvHQDY1izI4PhXCU2CFtl6O4VyXiSnK77RykZN1Fs2677uWfr5H_4Pe66JfF28cSyzhb5CsvleVQ2tMsIySK_hKv-zjWuZyo8u-6ikQYzUxnHiAeveDN5yoU4-yls7e-O4/s640/1fb10ddf-f95e-4a72-85cb-02c4ade2b922.jpeg" width="640" /></a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The best estimate of the age of the Earth is 4.6 billion
years. If this was scaled into 46 years,
humanity would have only existed for 4 hours.
The Industrial Revolution would be 1 minute old. It is in this minute where the majority of
environmental damage has occurred. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://greenbuzzz.net/environment/10-interesting-environmental-facts/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP5ncXFtYoBziBGl371ZgfFOvnOvAxVmYB9gYIL-p7XJCyBXseizFLW_kUx3IH43op234sJ_3wrKkRzgyZmv1Qlmqx84gOHCeCGVGZ9ICkC834YYWGLJ4Y5f3U_SuJfPx12mxTZ9ymxrw/s1600/acrun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="208" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP5ncXFtYoBziBGl371ZgfFOvnOvAxVmYB9gYIL-p7XJCyBXseizFLW_kUx3IH43op234sJ_3wrKkRzgyZmv1Qlmqx84gOHCeCGVGZ9ICkC834YYWGLJ4Y5f3U_SuJfPx12mxTZ9ymxrw/s320/acrun.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Environmental damage is, for the most part, reversible. It requires awareness and a desire to
actually realize change. It also
requires time. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://greenbuzzz.net/environment/10-interesting-environmental-facts/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Changing 75 light bulbs to energy efficient bulbs will
prevent 1 ton of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere annually. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://library.thinkquest.org/11353/facts.htm"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Roughly over 15% of electricity used in the United States
goes towards air conditioning. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://green.weekendrush.com/eco-facts/">Learn more.</a> </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Canada contains 25% of the world’s wetlands, 10% of the
world’s forests, and 7% of the world’s renewable fresh water. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://envirodad.com/34-cool-eco-facts-about-canada/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Only 11% of the Earth’s surface is used for growing
food. The land available for food
growing is decreasing. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://www.solareworld.com/blog/green-community/40-environmental-facts">Learn more.</a> </i></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk-dbAW5oyWCGMImpIsprBo0P4F07JQiRk4EqbuuAug7UIIGzQeKo6xfAaq_WN9cGFKIvLInRjyg3tMiD7X1NlVrOpIGtay8dsoKLPW_nwy3OyUCWqQzNbvLsaW4judYIQqTPY6GwItqA/s1600/australia-geothermal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk-dbAW5oyWCGMImpIsprBo0P4F07JQiRk4EqbuuAug7UIIGzQeKo6xfAaq_WN9cGFKIvLInRjyg3tMiD7X1NlVrOpIGtay8dsoKLPW_nwy3OyUCWqQzNbvLsaW4judYIQqTPY6GwItqA/s200/australia-geothermal.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If Australia tapped into only 1% of their potential
geothermal energy, they could provide enough energy to last 26,000 years. The Australian Geothermal Energy Association
is hoping to produce up to 2,200 MW of geothermal energy by 2020, representing
over 40% of the government’s renewable energy target. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://webecoist.momtastic.com/2008/11/26/amazing-frightening-green-facts-environmental-statistics/">Learn more.</a> </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The United States is building enough wind turbines to
provide 20% of their energy requirements.
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://webecoist.momtastic.com/2008/11/26/amazing-frightening-green-facts-environmental-statistics/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDLxzktXPz-lWSvIOc2IEYR3xlCN0VnbDiTTf1mum2i2NJDbHViPoQmB7FC3gUiToscQ9jnl1SrO_Q__4Kb4I-TySLdkriLF7k-arBfON8XCyqJUAXfgkmvtUQcqBAgXUYnp0Sylluat4/s1600/771px-SunseekerFlying.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDLxzktXPz-lWSvIOc2IEYR3xlCN0VnbDiTTf1mum2i2NJDbHViPoQmB7FC3gUiToscQ9jnl1SrO_Q__4Kb4I-TySLdkriLF7k-arBfON8XCyqJUAXfgkmvtUQcqBAgXUYnp0Sylluat4/s320/771px-SunseekerFlying.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;">In 1990, history was made when an
aircraft flew across the United States with no fuel. It was a solar powered aircraft and required
21 stages to complete the flight. </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://www.greenenergydevelopment.org/resources.html">Learn more.</a> </i></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;">The use of nuclear energy has
increased in the United States. Fifty
years ago, there were no nuclear power plants.
Today, more than 20% of America’s electrical energy comes from nuclear
energy. </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.dosomething.org/actnow/tipsandtools/11-facts-about-energy"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;">The United States is planning to
double energy efficiency by 2030. This
will equal a savings of $327 billion. </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.dosomething.org/actnow/tipsandtools/11-facts-about-energy"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;">If the United States is able to
achieve their double energy efficiency goal, carbon dioxide emissions will
decrease by 4 billion metric tons. </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.dosomething.org/actnow/tipsandtools/11-facts-about-energy"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Some countries are making big changes. Iceland is on the path toward zero fossil
fuel usage by 2050, Switzerland has some cities that are carless, and China has
been able to lower their plastic bag usage by 50%. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://www.dosomething.org/tipsandtools/five-green-countries-might-surprise-you">Learn more.</a> </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1gn1x4dahyphenhyphenAm7lE82y5uHEPHFiYjMB5Hq47uRSF1hfHWCXyA4WLjAb_zcnb3pl6FIY2wpbUHo_jimToXA339bSrAYUtMEqgsrS6pIBlYg4nEgdLNum8QzfPHg275DgCJ7NfKxox_LeZI/s1600/Krafla_geothermal_power_station_wiki.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1gn1x4dahyphenhyphenAm7lE82y5uHEPHFiYjMB5Hq47uRSF1hfHWCXyA4WLjAb_zcnb3pl6FIY2wpbUHo_jimToXA339bSrAYUtMEqgsrS6pIBlYg4nEgdLNum8QzfPHg275DgCJ7NfKxox_LeZI/s640/Krafla_geothermal_power_station_wiki.jpg" width="640" /></a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">By signing up for a 100% renewable energy plan, you will
avoid pumping more 7,250 kg of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere each
year. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://prestonhollow.advocatemag.com/2013/07/23/renewable-energy-qa/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Hydropower is relatively cheaper than most other forms of
energy. Washington State in the United
States gets 66% of their electrical energy from hydro and has one of the lowest
costs for energy in the country. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://energy.gov/articles/top-10-things-you-didnt-know-about-hydropower"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The screensaver on your computer’s monitor is not an energy
saver. Put your computer into a sleep
mode when not in use. This will save up
to 500 kW per year from your home energy bill.
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://planetforward.ca/blog/green-tips/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjle_4hhd8H5o413dxnqKs4a8CjfyYjfi-_veUcdwBQ3Ym34ud0OiFvqAyn0uAWYFe9fvZObaXIpCSBSCLLBFgFcB7nGj6Mlk4UwlsqZoGXQJyAtg7WcPBXZwCM9_Qku_fMvYaNooCq3PE/s1600/niagara-660x495.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjle_4hhd8H5o413dxnqKs4a8CjfyYjfi-_veUcdwBQ3Ym34ud0OiFvqAyn0uAWYFe9fvZObaXIpCSBSCLLBFgFcB7nGj6Mlk4UwlsqZoGXQJyAtg7WcPBXZwCM9_Qku_fMvYaNooCq3PE/s320/niagara-660x495.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For every 1 MW of increased wind energy capacity, 4.85 full
time jobs are created in clean renewable energy. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.mnn.com/green-tech/research-innovations/blogs/7-amazing-facts-about-green-jobs"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The greatest source of renewable energy in the United States
currently comes from biomass.
Approximately 1.5 million homes are powered by biomass. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.mnn.com/green-tech/research-innovations/blogs/7-amazing-facts-about-renewable-energy"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The first hydroelectric dam built in the world was in
Niagara Falls, Canada. It was
constructed in 1879. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://envirodad.com/34-cool-eco-facts-about-canada/">Learn more.</a> </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">One of the first known uses of solar energy was by British
astronomer John Herschel. In 1830, he
used a solar collector box to cook food while on an expedition in Africa. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.solareworld.com/blog/green-community/40-environmental-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Reduce, Reuse, Recycle</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9OtMLVUapJfFSg7R7u7uEicDaM6bXm8drbx1-kx6oz7-hu8MMESzC3UnBgAci_OkXNiRNTYRDnQtdpWWId5YAqwp2EdAX9RwI0Gx3NGQCH4BGHt1RY2ZmU_J3FgxflU4ulm6ywKjCKU/s1600/imagesCAALOYJ6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9OtMLVUapJfFSg7R7u7uEicDaM6bXm8drbx1-kx6oz7-hu8MMESzC3UnBgAci_OkXNiRNTYRDnQtdpWWId5YAqwp2EdAX9RwI0Gx3NGQCH4BGHt1RY2ZmU_J3FgxflU4ulm6ywKjCKU/s320/imagesCAALOYJ6.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">One ton of recycled paper saves 17 trees from being cut
down, 2 barrels of oil, 4,100 kW of energy, 3.2 cubic yards of landfill area,
and 60 lbs. of air. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://webecoist.momtastic.com/2008/11/26/amazing-frightening-green-facts-environmental-statistics/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;">Paper can be recycled up to seven
times before the fibres are too soft. </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://www.examiner.com/article/10-best-recycling-trivia-facts">Learn more.</a> </i></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;">Kitchener, Canada was the first city
in the world to create a curbside recycling program for their citizens. It began in 1981. </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://envirodad.com/34-cool-eco-facts-about-canada/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;">Per capita generation of waste has
decreased in the United States since 1990.
</span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.epa.gov/osw/nonhaz/municipal/pubs/MSWcharacterization_508_053113_fs.pdf"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;">If every newspaper was recycled, 250
million trees could be saved each year.
Currently, only 27% of newspapers are recycled. </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.solareworld.com/blog/green-community/40-environmental-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0MhGYY6dugI_EcLyBnhRiTgakCuFRaudqDmv7jmcQOT0aX-PHaf1nTwfdO90VdSf5DeVp2UdhgWsYa-87KlVJfXcNwqt__I5nhlLeAhOuc6QKA1it3D1YkhXQgh7yLkPtJbgGg0YoLjs/s1600/glasses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0MhGYY6dugI_EcLyBnhRiTgakCuFRaudqDmv7jmcQOT0aX-PHaf1nTwfdO90VdSf5DeVp2UdhgWsYa-87KlVJfXcNwqt__I5nhlLeAhOuc6QKA1it3D1YkhXQgh7yLkPtJbgGg0YoLjs/s320/glasses.jpg" width="266" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;">Over 75% of the materials used to
make a car are recyclable. </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.solareworld.com/blog/green-community/40-environmental-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Guess what? Most mail
delivery services will take old packing peanuts for reusing. Office supply stores will also take old
printer ink cartridges and refill them.
Two more things removed from your garbage! <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.dosomething.org/tipsandtools/5-things-you-didn%E2%80%99t-know-you-could-recycle"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Your old glasses can be donated. Many charities take old glasses and send them
to developing nations. More than 284
million people who need glasses cannot afford them. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://www.dosomething.org/tipsandtools/5-things-you-didn%E2%80%99t-know-you-could-recycle">Learn more.</a> </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Reuse our old ink cartridges by taking them to centres to be
refilled. A ink cartridge will take over
1,000 years to decompose in a landfill. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.rribitt-why-is-recycling-so-important.com/recycling-facts.html"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Social Issues</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The bailout packages for Wall Street cost an estimated $700
billion. It would take only 4% of this
total to end world hunger. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://webecoist.momtastic.com/2008/11/26/amazing-frightening-green-facts-environmental-statistics/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It is estimated that $3 trillion would pay for universal
healthcare for all Americans, the entire country switching to solar power, a
national rapid transit system, pollution clean-up in all major urban centres, a
push to universal literacy, completely repairing all damage left by Hurricane
Katrina, creating global training programs for 10 million leaders around the
world, and paid for clothing and school supplies for 10 million children. The cost of the Second Iraq War is
conservatively estimated to be $3 trillion.
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://webecoist.momtastic.com/2008/11/26/amazing-frightening-green-facts-environmental-statistics/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRVPilYU_eW4wejWhH-z67WpZDkUab1nIef7RmmX63d52ayv4zK4KADXUYgOK8Y8yttuDMjUrs7v_E0m9ExAw8uRD6MLWgYfVsYrSC89WuY7sZR-X61dm2WLTWtGXb3yBTVXTCjyGAQg4/s1600/Wind.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRVPilYU_eW4wejWhH-z67WpZDkUab1nIef7RmmX63d52ayv4zK4KADXUYgOK8Y8yttuDMjUrs7v_E0m9ExAw8uRD6MLWgYfVsYrSC89WuY7sZR-X61dm2WLTWtGXb3yBTVXTCjyGAQg4/s320/Wind.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;">For every $100 billion invested
transportation and green industries, the economy will expand roughly $160
billion in annual outputs and create just under 1.2 million jobs. </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://www.mnn.com/green-tech/research-innovations/blogs/7-amazing-facts-about-green-jobs">Learn more.</a> </i></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;">An American government study found
that medium-sized retail buildings could easily achieve 50% more energy
savings. This would account for 18% of
the entire United States’ energy usage. </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.mnn.com/green-tech/research-innovations/blogs/7-amazing-facts-about-green-jobs"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;">If Americans used public transport at
the same levels as Europeans, roughly 10%, the United States would reduce its
dependence on foreign oil by over 40%.
This equals 550 million barrels of crude oil. </span></span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.mnn.com/green-tech/gadgets-electronics/blogs/7-amazing-facts-about-energy-efficiency"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpfZFTKUgXDrYRoBGtbPLYzb1QegKZ4OxHAFkYuMCbVShguNef_X6z0dOBphSpK62YEA7muE88gDnOvrIuRkrLm2vggpvAUhfNTAOkvN1IfY4c7NWfDZU0NQz1L3lACuSG7cCulrMVTY0/s1600/Photovoltaic-Install.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpfZFTKUgXDrYRoBGtbPLYzb1QegKZ4OxHAFkYuMCbVShguNef_X6z0dOBphSpK62YEA7muE88gDnOvrIuRkrLm2vggpvAUhfNTAOkvN1IfY4c7NWfDZU0NQz1L3lACuSG7cCulrMVTY0/s320/Photovoltaic-Install.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">North America has 4% of the world’s population. They use 25% of the world’s resources. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.rribitt-why-is-recycling-so-important.com/recycling-facts.html"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The first Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970 by
approximately 20 million people. Today,
more than 1 billion people recognize it.
<span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.solareworld.com/blog/green-community/40-environmental-facts"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Albert Einstein’s Nobel Prize in 1921 was for his work in
photovoltaic, a science that has led to the entire solar energy industry. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/physics/laureates/1921/einstein-facts.html">Learn more.</a> </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">What You Can Do at
Home</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-mhHByGRYRl1CebFCDrHRHXDey8rmDn5o5RUeyHTU8S00J8UM2A4tXTjE50v-DjxsXylOxfK_4sxQ9KTBMEUQH1mZcLx0x8LDAWAnF-L3m6Ox0L0PSbPz4ju9SN0L_TvKbyLlMBwLLs/s1600/house-plants-stairs-exterior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge-mhHByGRYRl1CebFCDrHRHXDey8rmDn5o5RUeyHTU8S00J8UM2A4tXTjE50v-DjxsXylOxfK_4sxQ9KTBMEUQH1mZcLx0x8LDAWAnF-L3m6Ox0L0PSbPz4ju9SN0L_TvKbyLlMBwLLs/s320/house-plants-stairs-exterior.jpg" width="242" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Certain household plants can do great things for the
environment of your home. Aloe vera,
lillies, Chinese evergreens, and bamboo will filter out most toxins in the
atmosphere. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://www.dosomething.org/actnow/actionguide/11-ways-reduce-pollution-home">Learn more.</a> </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Use high R-value insulation in your home. The higher the R-value, the better your home
will be insulated and the less money spent on heating and cooling bills. <i> <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://goinggreenfactsinfo.blogspot.ca/2011/05/how-to-create-eco-friendly-house.html#more">Learn more.</a></span></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Use lighter colours on your exterior roof. This will reflect the heat of the sun as
opposed to absorbing it as darker colours do.
This will lower energy bills and help you to use less energy. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://goinggreenfactsinfo.blogspot.ca/2011/05/how-to-create-eco-friendly-house.html#more"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Use a reusable mug when buying coffee or other drinks. Over 8 billion disposable cups are thrown out
in Canada every year. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://planetforward.ca/blog/green-tips/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Shower instead of bathe.
In a week, you can save up to 400 litres of water. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://planetforward.ca/blog/green-tips/"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfg01PAcQ3BOJNS5EBGkoFTKicyx6aXLIqh5MVrtAYBFdo9oUzV7Q0DELu-xJ7XcXut0HiqGvPX_BhMvY3le0RINFtrDv4ZKjKK1V818vuLlc7VNp-gwHCKMhGzW1pvyQ94NE6DfhXuI4/s1600/gardening-for-family.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfg01PAcQ3BOJNS5EBGkoFTKicyx6aXLIqh5MVrtAYBFdo9oUzV7Q0DELu-xJ7XcXut0HiqGvPX_BhMvY3le0RINFtrDv4ZKjKK1V818vuLlc7VNp-gwHCKMhGzW1pvyQ94NE6DfhXuI4/s320/gardening-for-family.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Being environmentally conscious can start at any age. Get your kids involved in recycling and
reusing in order to instill behaviours that will last a lifetime. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://planetforward.ca/blog/green-tips/">Learn more.</a> </i></span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6628117816664821862" name="_GoBack"></a>A baby will use approximately 10,000
disposable diapers in their life. Cloth
diapers are reusable and remove the need for disposable ones. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.rribitt-why-is-recycling-so-important.com/recycling-facts.html"><i>Learn more.</i></a></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Incinerating 10,000 tons of garbage creates a single
job. Putting 10,000 tons of garbage into
a landfill creates 6 jobs. Recycling
10,000 tons of garbage creates 36 jobs. <span style="line-height: 115%;"><i><a href="http://www.rribitt-why-is-recycling-so-important.com/recycling-facts.html">Learn more.</a></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Additional Sources: </span><a href="http://2ndgreenrevolution.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/green_light_bulb.gif">Green Revolution</a>, <a href="http://www.vosizneias.com/62275/2010/08/16/new-york-ny-running-the-air-conditioning-24-7-without-pause/">Vosizneias</a>, <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeremyhiebert/4167483150/">Flickr</a>, <a href="http://www.greenoptimistic.com/2012/11/30/australias-geothermal-energy-projects-in-jeopardy/">Green Optimist</a>, <a href="http://www.wired.com/thisdayintech/2010/02/0210niagara-hydropower-starts/">Wired</a>, <a href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Krafla_geothermal_power_station_wiki.jpg">Commons</a>, <a href="http://myzerowaste.com/2011/05/5-ways-to-recycle-spectacles/">My Zero Waste</a></span></div>
Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-74422626944041852942013-06-18T10:44:00.001-07:002013-06-18T10:44:53.779-07:00E-Waste: What is it, and what do we do with it?<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When humanity entered the Information Age, it was heralded
as the end to paper waste. Everything
would be electronically created, storage, shared, and viewed. Computers, the Internet, wireless, and the
mass of new technology was going to remove the need for this kind of
waste. What wasn’t thought of was the
new kind of waste that was going to be created as obsolete or broken down
electronics and gadgets became replaced by the next version. </span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtQJXLUCChpgcUBAUJbFePj02PRNhbAm9b8O0fkGknvBrXfsc4rfmg1ngrUUCm9_golqwMEh1U5TAUK37WU8bt8c9CgxkGBEPyucChdvVLGlshjdbKeKJYVcjC8awDQ8ke_HsUPADtJrw/s1600/EWaste_GhanaDudes_big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="505" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtQJXLUCChpgcUBAUJbFePj02PRNhbAm9b8O0fkGknvBrXfsc4rfmg1ngrUUCm9_golqwMEh1U5TAUK37WU8bt8c9CgxkGBEPyucChdvVLGlshjdbKeKJYVcjC8awDQ8ke_HsUPADtJrw/s640/EWaste_GhanaDudes_big.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis0qTIq_ifoQh8iLReUQfSCbqy7wqUKpuY3Q5GZEuDrPXi18lXrBsHETOsxfoFbBjk_Yw-KGY4NunMHQUODShgch6w3Iw1-2tz36EfrpIlRNDT_Izg1tHOey-Afv9Wafr-tlGKFv183wk/s1600/eWaste.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="142" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis0qTIq_ifoQh8iLReUQfSCbqy7wqUKpuY3Q5GZEuDrPXi18lXrBsHETOsxfoFbBjk_Yw-KGY4NunMHQUODShgch6w3Iw1-2tz36EfrpIlRNDT_Izg1tHOey-Afv9Wafr-tlGKFv183wk/s200/eWaste.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">E-waste has become a growing concern for most nations. Landfills have become filled with our old
computers, cell phones, printers, iPods, and other electronics that we take for
granted. However, our experience in
dealing with waste in general is showing that we are prepared to deal with
e-waste so long as we are committed to doing so. Recycling programs, government initiatives,
and social responsibility are leading the challenge in dealing with this
by-product of evolving technology.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">What is E-Waste?</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">E-waste is what has become known as the discarded
electronics and appliances that are commonly found in homes and
businesses. They are the computers, cell
phones, printers, refrigerators, gaming consoles, and other consumer
electronics that have become obsolete, broken, or surplus. On average, the most common electronic
devices are replaced frequently:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Cell phones – replaced every 22 months.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Desktop computers – replaced every 2 years.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Televisions – replaced every 10+ years.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Portable music players – replaced every 2-3 years.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">DVD players – replaced every 4-5 years.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Printers – replaced every 5+ years.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Every year, there is between 20 to 50 million metric tons of
e-waste, representing the faster growing portion of municipal waste. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Historically, e-waste has contained many hazardous
materials. There was lead and mercury in
old cathode ray tube televisions, cadmium in batteries, and the presence of
hexavalent chromium, acrylamide, polybrominated biphenyls, and polybrominated
diphenyl ether in many other electronics.
In throwing such waste into landfills, these hazardous materials and
chemicals can leach into the soil and cause significant and irreparable damage
to delicate ecosystems.</span></div>
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</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi80DM_aKEn7Gl8zXwS_fvlG0gXr_6cOPIBKbv33IHkuelpzJquyCYFakFV7hzFHa0I0cwMzdXu5tfuPZNT04a-MHNIIIp_kNvH_2BXhPOb2Zw5-Yax1JkH2PB8qwmnrh453TJxJ-M36bc/s1600/ewaste_768big.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi80DM_aKEn7Gl8zXwS_fvlG0gXr_6cOPIBKbv33IHkuelpzJquyCYFakFV7hzFHa0I0cwMzdXu5tfuPZNT04a-MHNIIIp_kNvH_2BXhPOb2Zw5-Yax1JkH2PB8qwmnrh453TJxJ-M36bc/s640/ewaste_768big.jpg" width="372" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Statistics and
Perspective</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Our lives are centred around electronics. The average home will purchase $1,179 worth
of electronics every year. To put this
into perspective, approximately 5.1 million televisions were purchased in the
United States for the sole purpose of being ready for the 2012 NFL
Superbowl. Over 99 million televisions
are stockpiled for sale in the United States at any given time. All of these will one day end up as e-waste. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Initiatives to reduce the amount of e-waste the end up in
landfills are underway. One of the
driving forces behind this is the amount of expensive metals that are used in
the construction of electronics that can be reused and sold. In 1 million cell phones, there is 24 kg of
gold, 250 kg of silver, 9 kg of palladium, and 9,000 kg of copper. These are able to reused in new electronics,
reducing the amount required to mine them.
These metals are also commodities themselves, and are easily traded and
sold as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">What is Being Done</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsxw9J-JCrA6jDYwzs-UEK7wfHI496lGxakY-0bQGycH57GOFcCDMt6bnVDREGdCaH6iKgJwYpU27ZMCEMdev7PXrePgaXR56fmBj2U22UhkyCDXK_WcXEThJROv8Fxsqo8TsPsRd1LGk/s1600/Recycling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsxw9J-JCrA6jDYwzs-UEK7wfHI496lGxakY-0bQGycH57GOFcCDMt6bnVDREGdCaH6iKgJwYpU27ZMCEMdev7PXrePgaXR56fmBj2U22UhkyCDXK_WcXEThJROv8Fxsqo8TsPsRd1LGk/s200/Recycling.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The reasons for reducing the amount of e-waste are many,
from reducing the sizes of landfills, preventing hazardous materials from
leaching into the environment, and creating businesses that harvest precious
metals. First, it is important to note
that many of our electronics are now manufactured with less environmentally
damaging materials. The transition from
CRT TVs to LED TVs removed the need for lead and mercury. Cadmium is no longer used in batteries (still
in rechargeable ones) and hexavalent chromium and acrylamide and no longer used
in any electronic manufacturing.
Finally, flame retardant materials such as polybrominated biphenyls and
polybrominated diphenyl have been phased out as safer materials have replaced
them. This has massively reduced the
amount of hazardous materials that leach into the soil from e-waster that does
make it to the landfills.</span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUs1uNB_juYBb8aVUG0BrJd8O__7R2d-vwxeq8G-PIcfkqzP0qcDZA5Gwh4BaS8e9JkbvcvBM_FHk8u8n_HD8A9W2ADd7tvJdTsMpdvL-ULaPdcvQHxl18XqjIDahVNDGh3SUXmPZNC0Y/s1600/table.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUs1uNB_juYBb8aVUG0BrJd8O__7R2d-vwxeq8G-PIcfkqzP0qcDZA5Gwh4BaS8e9JkbvcvBM_FHk8u8n_HD8A9W2ADd7tvJdTsMpdvL-ULaPdcvQHxl18XqjIDahVNDGh3SUXmPZNC0Y/s640/table.png" width="508" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Canada has adopted the <a href="http://www.tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca/ecologisation-greening/publications/renouvelable-sustainable-eng.html"><i><span style="line-height: 115%;">Federal Sustainable Development
Strategy</span></i></a>, a government initiative that amalgamates the efforts
of more than 25 different agencies in combating environmental issues. Through this, the <a href="http://www.epsc.ca/"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Electronics Product Stewardship Canada</span></a>,
a not-for-profit organization, has been created.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb4F5SVsZaOGHts2_qO7RSyNrwyjAFsiS5Szofyio27uAQQ-DWCD6dvV_T3wOttf4lKo1Oh3KFXdR7yBJf8hlPHQHMRcC0U9ODBxS_wVuWUQ4GOvgKpN8a_dvz_mEKSEGA_FOLn22cAbY/s1600/medals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb4F5SVsZaOGHts2_qO7RSyNrwyjAFsiS5Szofyio27uAQQ-DWCD6dvV_T3wOttf4lKo1Oh3KFXdR7yBJf8hlPHQHMRcC0U9ODBxS_wVuWUQ4GOvgKpN8a_dvz_mEKSEGA_FOLn22cAbY/s200/medals.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It is currently operational in 7 different provinces with it
pending approval in the 3 others. The
territories currently have no plans for inclusion under this initiative. This has created a nationwide standard for
e-waste recycling. In addition, several
major municipal governments in Canada have passed even stricter bylaws to
further remove e-waste from their landfills.
This has led to direct cost savings for cities are landfill use is
lowered. It is estimated that British
Columbia has saved almost $24 million through their recycling programs and
Ontario has saved more than $65 million.
This has led to Canada becoming an international leader in e-waste
management and recycling. Even the <a href="http://www.olympic.org/vancouver-2010-winter-olympics"><span style="line-height: 115%;">2010
Vancouver Winter Olympic</span></a> medals were all made from recovered
materials from e-waste! </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">What Can You Do?</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The reduction of e-waste begins with us. We must evaluate whether we really need that
next generation cell phone now or if our current and still working one is
good. Electronics that we are no long
using can also be given to others to use, sent to recycling centres, or be
donated to programs such as Computers for Schools or through partners of the
federal Crown Assets Distribution.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">We all want new technology and electronics. However, we must be conscious in how we
dispose of the ones we are no longer using.
In doing this simple act, we can lower the amount of e-waste that makes
its way to landfills and can extend the lives of electronic devices through
donation or recycle them so that their materials can be used in the new gadgets
that we want!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Sources: </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.treehugger.com/clean-technology/crazy-e-waste-statistics-explored-in-infographic.html">Treehugger</a>, </span><a href="http://electronicrecyclers.com/ewaste-defined.aspx" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Electronic Recyclers</a>, <a href="http://ewasteguide.info/node/201" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">E Waste Guide</a>, <a href="http://crownassets.pwgsc.gc.ca/mn-eng.cfm?snc=info&sc=acasc" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Crown Assets</a>, <a href="http://www.electronicstakeback.com/wp-content/uploads/Facts_and_Figures_on_EWaste_and_Recycling.pdf" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Electronics Take Back</a>, <a href="http://www.fcm.ca/Documents/presentations/2013/SCC2013/E_Waste_A_Success_Story_EN.pdf" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">FCM</a>, <a href="http://www.ec.gc.ca/dd-sd/default.asp?lang=En&n=CD30F295-1" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">ec.gc.ca</a>, <a href="http://www.tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca/ecologisation-greening/dechets-waste/index-eng.html" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">tpsgc-pwgsc.gc.ca</a>, <a href="http://www.epsc.ca/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">epsc.ca</a>, <a href="http://www.electronicstakeback.com/home/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Electronics Take Back Home</a>, <a href="http://serendipityoucity.blogsome.com/category/infrastructures/wireless/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Serendipityoucity</a>, <a href="http://environmentalqualityje20.tumblr.com/post/37788550741/e-waste-threat-or-oportunity" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Environmental Quality</a>, <a href="http://www.djc.com/news/en/12021308.html"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">djc</span></a></div>
Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-21253015501930685602013-03-20T10:43:00.000-07:002013-03-20T10:51:08.152-07:00São Tomé and Príncipe: A Tiny Nation with an Environmental Perspective<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxwyPb5ztKqt-r8yU7Uu8DDgwJV4hcdUmplzZO4Nzrdw6-BDSBh-NVKKZiLMy-KuOm76sl0Kmv02yCFwT8Aw-L84RI4KUFIS2R9egx6ppIKciEfIORvsdt7pJxUlO9qPIaQy_zi5JxkH0/s1600/map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxwyPb5ztKqt-r8yU7Uu8DDgwJV4hcdUmplzZO4Nzrdw6-BDSBh-NVKKZiLMy-KuOm76sl0Kmv02yCFwT8Aw-L84RI4KUFIS2R9egx6ppIKciEfIORvsdt7pJxUlO9qPIaQy_zi5JxkH0/s320/map.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">São Tomé and Príncipe is a small nation in the Gulf of
Guinea off the west coast of Africa. Its
name was given for the two main islands that comprise the country, the largest
of each archipelago that it is made of.
While such a tiny nation would not normally register for its green
record, looking at what they have done to improve their environment shows that
no country in the world is exempt from caring for it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As a developing nation, São Tomé and Príncipe’s needs are
different that those of Canada or Europe.
However, they still strive for sustainability, economic growth, and
cultural expression, just like any other.
In pursuing this, they are working with other nations and organizations
to ensure that their growth is not only economically sustainable, but that it
is environmentally viable as well. This
article seeks to explore the <a href="http://www.sidsnet.org/">Small Island Developing State
(SIDS)</a> that is São Tomé and Príncipe and show how every nation is
responsible for protecting this world.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJVqMXfK1FK-b7RqBm_KWzHfiIAuNtHgGfDgsiLIv1my6or2VHN5w_Jc5YUpogXBH49zxuHgn9sj8FemziUE__6Zb1jpod4Dh3rpb41ArEb0P5ugK3rGpIhhJdLNbRZYm23gFVyw61ADg/s1600/STP+West+Africa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJVqMXfK1FK-b7RqBm_KWzHfiIAuNtHgGfDgsiLIv1my6or2VHN5w_Jc5YUpogXBH49zxuHgn9sj8FemziUE__6Zb1jpod4Dh3rpb41ArEb0P5ugK3rGpIhhJdLNbRZYm23gFVyw61ADg/s640/STP+West+Africa.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Food Security</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWgZDsynAqun6YxUx9pd4k8xxCcR9g96CW3pXqKcpuabOmt7CS5hSavu9LZcnab9KyyDpWqOPAXYkzdcuSdQNVkYOa_lI2sgUTMC_nyHf86yU5xq075QDn2jL6jAXS4XUoyHlilmVG4I/s1600/Rolas_Furnas_Geysir_Sao_Tome_e_Principe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWgZDsynAqun6YxUx9pd4k8xxCcR9g96CW3pXqKcpuabOmt7CS5hSavu9LZcnab9KyyDpWqOPAXYkzdcuSdQNVkYOa_lI2sgUTMC_nyHf86yU5xq075QDn2jL6jAXS4XUoyHlilmVG4I/s200/Rolas_Furnas_Geysir_Sao_Tome_e_Principe.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As a part of the <a href="http://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/scr/2005/cr05332.pdf">National Poverty Reduction
Strategy</a>, São Tomé and Príncipe are working to reduce poverty by
half and add annual real GDP growth of 5% per year. As a part of this, the <a href="http://www.afdb.org/en/">African
Development Bank</a> has invested in São Tomé and Príncipe’s
fisheries. The goal is to reduce the
food deficit in the country through sustainable practices that will ensure a
lasting supply of food for the population as well as maintain environmental
standards that will make it lasting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">São Tomé and Príncipe estimates it could bring in between
23,000 and 29,000 tonnes of fish per year.
This would help lower the current 22% of citizens who do not have enough
food resources. Environmental awareness
actions within the program are meant to educate fishery workers on sustainable
and green practices in order to ensure that a consistent stock is available
every year. This has been received through
the Environmental and Social Management Plan, designed based on previous African Developmental Bank
initiatives in other nations. Such
measures include:</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Cleaning of runoff water before re-entry into the
ecosystem;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Repopulation of old fishing tracks in order to protect
historical and cultural fishing areas as well as ensure sustainability within
existing water systems; and</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Ensuring proper disposal of waste and toxic liquids
through controlled landfills and incinerators.</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Implementation of this plan is also a part of the island
nation’s National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy, signed in 2005.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB4v5wgPjuBCUyraOEwoPLIpNP3AwCc2X2nTX1L9o1B8CiH2mVslCEo6uozDMe5wpCtvwvAJHmutQr3mTyCS81n5XVmg6dnSqrvEI3r0rPa4RoUUGCFx9O-LHmBQgXxrDOjSBDC05G8yA/s1600/fish.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB4v5wgPjuBCUyraOEwoPLIpNP3AwCc2X2nTX1L9o1B8CiH2mVslCEo6uozDMe5wpCtvwvAJHmutQr3mTyCS81n5XVmg6dnSqrvEI3r0rPa4RoUUGCFx9O-LHmBQgXxrDOjSBDC05G8yA/s640/fish.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ocean Protection</span></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCqRJbedStzInGfN9380AUU5DVY98FPJXzOGAAhUWlAPlS-OyJXq_O93Z9iZup3yeUJJv6CEuOZiRPZWH8Ky8OLznZGt6i9WtNE4Icor1TD3b2yZ99GJj8v97b-e1Mly-Xx4Za_e09_k/s1600/stamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggCqRJbedStzInGfN9380AUU5DVY98FPJXzOGAAhUWlAPlS-OyJXq_O93Z9iZup3yeUJJv6CEuOZiRPZWH8Ky8OLznZGt6i9WtNE4Icor1TD3b2yZ99GJj8v97b-e1Mly-Xx4Za_e09_k/s320/stamp.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Much of São Tomé and Príncipe can be classified as
coastal. The country has a rich
diversity of undeveloped coastal areas; however these are threatened by
deforestation, coastal erosion due to mining, desertification, unregulated
tourism development, and a general lack of township planning. There is also a newly emerging offshore
petroleum industry that is growing and contributing to environmental
concerns. This is why a <a href="http://www.un.org/depts/los/nippon/unnff_programme_home/fellows_pages/fellows_papers/costa-alegre_0910_sao-tome-principe.pdf">National Ocean Policy</a>
has been proposed by the <a href="http://www.un.org/en/">United Nations</a> for São
Tomé and Príncipe as well as all <a href="http://www.sidsnet.org/">SIDS</a> nations. This is important as continued erosion is
damaging environments as well as tourism and fisheries development.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To counter growing oil production, the government passed the
Oil Revenue Management Law, which is now considered a model for other
nations. Through the aid of the <a href="file:///C:/Users/Rob/Desktop/Server/Greencyclopedia%20Research%20Corp/Communications/Social%20Media/eBlogger/To%20Post%20-%20Sao%20Tome%20STP/Earth%20Institute%20at%20Columbia%20University">Earth Institute at Columbia
University</a> and the <a href="http://www.worldbank.org/">World Bank</a>, a
percentage of oil revenues are diverted to future environmental needs. This means that any offshore oil development
must is required to contribute to environmental protection of the surrounding
ocean area.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRqhXQNGb47bZbqZkEYg68vn1I4rjh7XYPJ9YPiave4mHpga0jBz0a6ZqYjVhyTuVlmaVcWBbxh5i-4gXdT1eR1iMX53WVLzt-LA6-fCrNSy3s4RJQK47L0cPRAccGFjAICxip22X3aJE/s1600/Ocean.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRqhXQNGb47bZbqZkEYg68vn1I4rjh7XYPJ9YPiave4mHpga0jBz0a6ZqYjVhyTuVlmaVcWBbxh5i-4gXdT1eR1iMX53WVLzt-LA6-fCrNSy3s4RJQK47L0cPRAccGFjAICxip22X3aJE/s640/Ocean.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The </span><a href="http://www.cbd.int/rio/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Rio Convention</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> of
1992 deals with sustainable development on a global level in dealing with
resource development. While non-binding,
it has been used in the case of São Tomé and Príncipe to manage economic growth
from natural resources in coastal areas while ensuring sustainability in the
environment where it is being conducted.
The 1994 </span><a href="http://www.un.org/en/development/devagenda/sids.shtml" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">UN Conference on Sustainable
Development of Small Island developing states</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">, held in Barbados, is
also being used to establish programs that take into account coastal and ocean
issues for any new construction development on the islands. This includes paying attention to coral reef
habitats, wetlands, and life-support systems for marine wildlife.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">National
Adaptation Programme of Action (NAPA)</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5yRAmY5oJkxpo0l-RP-HI1qffBr4T43wcGWNlCl8NSzbVg9z-TVRYcOJVk4dauT9n5TZobO7kFShWzI8qJP-uI_8LeqYkFpSYwzkGRIj6nfyETRE27tu8RX7DiO-7B4nX2HMkPw3wpFY/s1600/ADB.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5yRAmY5oJkxpo0l-RP-HI1qffBr4T43wcGWNlCl8NSzbVg9z-TVRYcOJVk4dauT9n5TZobO7kFShWzI8qJP-uI_8LeqYkFpSYwzkGRIj6nfyETRE27tu8RX7DiO-7B4nX2HMkPw3wpFY/s200/ADB.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The <a href="http://unfccc.int/essential_background/convention/items/2627.php">United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)</a>, Article 4.9, recognizes a
classification of nations known as Least Developed Countries (LDCs). These nations, of which São Tomé and Príncipe
is a part of, have special needs when it comes to how they are able to
incorporate climate change initiatives while continuing to develop other areas
of their country. Article 4.9 states,
“The Parties shall take full account of the specific needs and special
situations of the Least Developed Countries in their actions with regard to
funding and transfer of technology.” The
use of NAPAs in such nations enables foreign aid for adaptable changes that
place an emphasis on climate variability.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFm15qIJ5QhueVIZIgl03RZ9M9NOQKiHE8KEUx3W1tM3Sfo3nKEN5XNC8CW_WGaC2XkjDDEPwcgYZjkRh2-XaO_112ZL0NbL_fylmz1DR4jbCXX72oGGubWN5XfiBokT_BzwfNl_3KW0o/s1600/World+Bank.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFm15qIJ5QhueVIZIgl03RZ9M9NOQKiHE8KEUx3W1tM3Sfo3nKEN5XNC8CW_WGaC2XkjDDEPwcgYZjkRh2-XaO_112ZL0NbL_fylmz1DR4jbCXX72oGGubWN5XfiBokT_BzwfNl_3KW0o/s200/World+Bank.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There are two NAPAs currently operating in São Tomé and
Príncipe. First, there is the Adaptation
to Climate Change initiative that was begun by the <a href="http://www.worldbank.org/">World
Bank</a>. The second is the Strengthening
of the Adaptive Capacity of Must Vulnerable Sao Tomean’s Livestock-Keeping
Households, initiated by the <a href="http://www.afdb.org/en/">African Development Bank</a>. Key environmental vulnerabilities were
outlined in six sectors: agriculture, forests and livestock; fisheries; public
works, infrastructure and tourism; energy and water; health; and public safety
and civil protection. By working on
climate change initiatives as well as certain social areas, the goal is to
improve both the environment and the standard of living. The <a href="http://unfccc.int/essential_background/convention/items/2627.php">UNFCCC</a> is also
coordinating their efforts, as well as those of the <a href="http://www.worldbank.org/">World
Bank</a> and <a href="http://www.afdb.org/en/">African Development Bank</a>, through the Poverty
Reduction Strategy and the <a href="http://www.cbd.int/rio/">Rio Convention</a> on
desertification and biodiversity.
Additional funding for these programs have also come from the Japan
Adaptation Programme. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It is important to
note that this is only the beginning of the work that NAPAs wish to do in São
Tomé and Príncipe. There are a total of
22 projects currently outlined for the island nation.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAFZ0gA76Tzdb7I4QCYLnXsBMxc680-16ar82UZR-O78tTYYd7qDLp_VzaXZ6yYEav0OVRgWKr9Qa0QzdMwoRh5-sPYIcO3fvDsoMFgF_tpBlR-p-1kUrmSvlpMVkS2quQ3lGDcEHs7A/s1600/SaoTome.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyAFZ0gA76Tzdb7I4QCYLnXsBMxc680-16ar82UZR-O78tTYYd7qDLp_VzaXZ6yYEav0OVRgWKr9Qa0QzdMwoRh5-sPYIcO3fvDsoMFgF_tpBlR-p-1kUrmSvlpMVkS2quQ3lGDcEHs7A/s640/SaoTome.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Future of São
Tomé and Príncipe</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As a SIDS
and LDC nation, São Tomé and Príncipe has severe restrictions on what it is
able to accomplish environmentally.
However, through external aid, such as the World Bank, the African Development Bank, and the United Nations, they have
been able to implement new strategies and begin projects to ensure a higher
standard of life, meet basic needs of the population, and do so through
sustainable and environmentally sound methods. This environmental
transformation is also helping economically as new and existing industries are
strengthened and can have an environmentally sound future.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfTiGkd-wW5ba5jKvg5IG41qr1z_PpnjcRfUXcWL4Pxdi5eye0JORGwOpnPA0VZgoS7GZ7bhXScgCtyw7LRh8BR4VMuIiSjlzxsSqwAibkrk0Euvm0LSE1xsCDq4VITy1-fJvvs5ppwJk/s1600/DSC005641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfTiGkd-wW5ba5jKvg5IG41qr1z_PpnjcRfUXcWL4Pxdi5eye0JORGwOpnPA0VZgoS7GZ7bhXScgCtyw7LRh8BR4VMuIiSjlzxsSqwAibkrk0Euvm0LSE1xsCDq4VITy1-fJvvs5ppwJk/s640/DSC005641.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Sources:<b> </b><a href="http://unfccc.int/cooperation_support/least_developed_countries_portal/items/6503.php">UNFCCC</a>, <a href="http://www.afdb.org/fileadmin/uploads/afdb/Documents/Project-and-Operations/Sao%20Tome%20and%20Principe%20-%20Approved%20-%20Infrastructure%20rehabilitation%20for%20food%20security%20support%20project%20(PRIASA)%20(2)%20(2)%20(2).pdf">AFDB</a>, <a href="http://www.ecobank.com/group/socialworksinsaotome.aspx">Eco Bank</a>, <a href="http://www.un.org/depts/los/nippon/unnff_programme_home/fellows_pages/fellows_papers/costa-alegre_0910_sao-tome-principe.pdf">UN.org</a>, <a href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rolas_Furnas_Geysir_Sao_Tome_e_Principe.jpg">Rolas
Furnas Geysir</a>, <a href="http://www.prweb.com/releases/2012/6/prweb9574240.htm">West Africa</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/WorldBankTweets">World Bank</a>, <a href="http://vintagejhan.blogspot.ca/">Vintage Jhan BlogSpot Image</a></span></div>
Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-5980039103216357632013-03-14T12:57:00.000-07:002013-03-14T12:59:18.035-07:00Environmental Awareness and Action in Australia<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
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<img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr12wwb9CCrH5E6sUdQyrybjxMQFaWc8Wr8Df33TXjVwWH9OrckywMLCX3KHNGzJjUDi22uJhoBHFQG281UOG7RZn3PP1lf7gLgIt6xHqVsxjCRS5oJqC2wwIzHSynkgahI1gthks0FvM/s200/beginning.jpg" width="200" /></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Australia typically holds their federal elections in
March and this one was expected to focus on environmental initiatives. The Opposition was set to announce a promise
to reign in mining and carbon taxes, adding fuel to the fire of what governing
party would win and what their commitment to environmental action would look
like. However, Prime Minister Julia
Gillard shocked many when she announced that the election would take place in
September, sparking the longest election campaign in Australian history. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Given that the environment is set to become a hot topic
in Australia throughout the summer and this campaign, it begs the question: <b>What is Australia doing in terms of
environmental action?</b> What is their
environmental stance on international agreements? Have they met or are they working towards
meeting these accords? How proactive is
Australia in affirming a commitment to environmental action? In this article,
we explore Australia to discover how the nation from Down Under is working
towards a better world.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho8pRqCW1UNlARKa69prUnF8154i2TPc0QbVh5lEx2xdpja7ZZiUW98XkeeC9bq1vhTEiv4BHqD0vEirlCMF_vnSZvqOmT-c3S93-69oztD5YW1T8EiWlH2s2MiaI_9Ob4fIjiW7ZFz1s/s1600/Beautiful-Australia-micketo-24194260-1229-922.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho8pRqCW1UNlARKa69prUnF8154i2TPc0QbVh5lEx2xdpja7ZZiUW98XkeeC9bq1vhTEiv4BHqD0vEirlCMF_vnSZvqOmT-c3S93-69oztD5YW1T8EiWlH2s2MiaI_9Ob4fIjiW7ZFz1s/s640/Beautiful-Australia-micketo-24194260-1229-922.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Air</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgil8OqRbftbAkGR11B9PJ1XbE_DHxa-EDwWG4uvu8mJf-gAXITD2ZGxKOC0Pz89_94tOWOkXT1wu1dPFuK2Dn5CeOmn40H2yMfOCizkiy1954mqpnXZRaF1GznEmdOvu09e_0OxeRHY5c/s1600/art-svEMISSIONS-420x0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgil8OqRbftbAkGR11B9PJ1XbE_DHxa-EDwWG4uvu8mJf-gAXITD2ZGxKOC0Pz89_94tOWOkXT1wu1dPFuK2Dn5CeOmn40H2yMfOCizkiy1954mqpnXZRaF1GznEmdOvu09e_0OxeRHY5c/s320/art-svEMISSIONS-420x0.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Australia has been monitoring chemical emissions being
released into the air since July 1998. The <a href="http://www.npi.gov.au/">National
Pollutant Inventory</a> was established to track 90 different chemicals,
most of which are considered air toxins. From this list and monitoring, the <a href="http://www.environment.gov.au/atmosphere/airquality/publications/cmp.html">Ambient Air
Quality National Environment Protection Measure</a> has calculated
emissions of these chemicals and has set out a plan to lower such toxins in the
air, such as carbon monoxide and photochemicals, and to eliminate some
altogether, such as lead and sulphur dioxide. This is detailed within a ten
year plan.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Climate Change</span></b>
</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2EETCYEhL1x_te_UShvlelL862nQvk7hJ9txkE6LVXeCVi-TLw7WWhRtzGh0RtfHGXh7fthL1EmHkxuJ_fRPc9DFCkmXRm6m9wHBRBS1ll26QfPWii1M7OKjjqshdL4O7QoXKh_hVpQ/s1600/Conference-web-block.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ2EETCYEhL1x_te_UShvlelL862nQvk7hJ9txkE6LVXeCVi-TLw7WWhRtzGh0RtfHGXh7fthL1EmHkxuJ_fRPc9DFCkmXRm6m9wHBRBS1ll26QfPWii1M7OKjjqshdL4O7QoXKh_hVpQ/s320/Conference-web-block.jpg" width="228" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Australia has a three pillar approach to climate change: <b>mitigation</b>, <b>adaptation</b>, and a <b>global
solution</b>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Mitigation</b>
refers to reducing emissions. The belief is that without any action, carbon
related pollution could be as high as 20% higher than 2000 level by 2020. The
goal of the government is to lower emissions by at least 5% compared to the
2000 level, which will require cutting net expected pollution but roughly 25% by
2020. This includes investments into clean energy alternatives and supporting
individuals and businesses in their unique efforts. More than $5 billion has been invested into
clean energy technologies as defined in the <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/en/government/Carbon%20Pricing%20Policy/legislation.aspx">Clean Energy
Legislative Package</a>. The government has also established the <a href="http://www.lowcarbonaustralia.com.au/">Australian Carbon Trust</a>, a
$100 million fund designed to finance businesses in retrofitting commercial and
industries sectors to more energy efficient options. The creation of education for green-collar
job training will also help train people in a variety of industries with the
skills necessary to facilitate such a green business revolution. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Adaption</b> is an
educational initiative designed to help people cope with a changing Australia. A
$126 million fund in the <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/government/initiatives/climate-change-adaptation-program.aspx">Climate Change
Adaptation Program</a> help educate individuals on managing climate
change risks including water conservation, health and emergencies management,
and in helping to transition industries that use a lot of resources, such as
farming and mining to better alternatives.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Global solutions</b>
are underway as Australia is an active partner under the <a href="http://unfccc.int/2860.php">United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change</a>.
The goal is to create a legally binding framework for all nations that manages
pollution reduction and enforcement.
Australia is also the current chair of the <a href="http://unfccc.int/parties_and_observers/parties/negotiating_groups/items/2714.php">Umbrella Group</a>,
a coalition of non-European Union developed nations who are working towards
climate change solutions. Under the <a href="http://unfccc.int/kyoto_protocol/items/2830.php">Kyoto Protocol</a>,
Australia has also publically pledged to reduce their emissions by 25% lower
than 2000 standards, a plans that has affected the creation of the domestic <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/government/Carbon%20Pricing%20Policy/legislation.aspx">Clean Energy
Legislative Package</a>.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1jatMKXtRMmBW2tDnX590maSjMqrxlpPhQlNKUOB-Prk-AzAYk2vGRt1-wDkozSOctPEzBNnlngkqNWev2CbMn9wEmtXQssR6OEOJigjuUSbbibPTqwHEobrmhxqTFpD_CW5SgTH3w4k/s1600/Climate+Action+Leader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1jatMKXtRMmBW2tDnX590maSjMqrxlpPhQlNKUOB-Prk-AzAYk2vGRt1-wDkozSOctPEzBNnlngkqNWev2CbMn9wEmtXQssR6OEOJigjuUSbbibPTqwHEobrmhxqTFpD_CW5SgTH3w4k/s640/Climate+Action+Leader.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Energy</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWmFM5p92f5DOAsRumV-Gct-dMr_iKZWf8xgSEUvT41JDorCKW53hY18ePPlS7VVISB4j6K0uAJm5AsxhhjukJDaTUhTG3kaGzPfFXlYCaMeFI9xOdUYhMop23qOFRNg4YtME07sJejYk/s1600/IMG_0022.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWmFM5p92f5DOAsRumV-Gct-dMr_iKZWf8xgSEUvT41JDorCKW53hY18ePPlS7VVISB4j6K0uAJm5AsxhhjukJDaTUhTG3kaGzPfFXlYCaMeFI9xOdUYhMop23qOFRNg4YtME07sJejYk/s320/IMG_0022.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Australian plan to increase clean energy initiatives
is very unique and involves all of their citizens. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">First, within the <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/government/Carbon%20Pricing%20Policy/legislation.aspx">Clean Energy
Legislative Package</a>, all Australians who make under $80,000 per year
will receive tax rebates based on the government’s new carbon pricing strategy.
There is an expected 0.7% increase in the cost of living as commodities that
increase carbon production are taxed at higher level. The rebate in meant to
offset consumer costs. This also includes the rollout of a nationwide education
initiative so that everyone understands how carbon pricing works, what
commodities it is attached to, and what appropriate rates should be. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There have also been two local projects, one in Tweed and
the other in Moreton Bay, to test different energy alternatives. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Since 2009, Tweed has worked to reduce organic wastes
ending up in landfills. They have been able to reduce waste production by 42%
and instead, have used organic wastes in a new methane gas extraction system,
which is capable of generating 3,000 megawatt hours of electricity. The capture
and burning of methane also reduces 12,900 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions
annually. Moreton Bay is tackling their landfill as well. Since 2006, the
introduction of curbside recycling has removed 25% of all waste from entering
landfills. The city also has other
recycling initiatives, which brings the total waste removal to 42%. The
installation of landfill gas management systems also further reduces landfill
gas emission by 50%. Under the new carbon pricing strategy, the city believes
that they will save $3.2 million through lower carbon production. These are two
strategies that are being investigated for potential national rollouts.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzAJA-TJjk0OB7pvWnBCRbO9I5F7lMy-YkjF4HTxiRIlZ0gFuOUBsLI3hWp21yeiLGOe9YXsXeD8DuoeRB4N3VCS4FPfgsmUMs2J8vM-HM0cc-RBQQIY0FedCZ0vanOrtccuISs9nOab0/s1600/sydney-seawater-desalination-plant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzAJA-TJjk0OB7pvWnBCRbO9I5F7lMy-YkjF4HTxiRIlZ0gFuOUBsLI3hWp21yeiLGOe9YXsXeD8DuoeRB4N3VCS4FPfgsmUMs2J8vM-HM0cc-RBQQIY0FedCZ0vanOrtccuISs9nOab0/s640/sydney-seawater-desalination-plant.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Protection</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRbJAjjc3QSAHay7DW8jv8AINmy6o05cNEEfnJSIpCG-jNUl242LqbUazX5vUrhZEeA9shnwAVTxrmHFfAKNUb21oX66HKEI2bFzrm6hp_x6IHyfu-S7SSmH54lRdgM8dtTfRxpCPDeE/s1600/australian-desert-animals-pictures-Desert_Snake-picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeRbJAjjc3QSAHay7DW8jv8AINmy6o05cNEEfnJSIpCG-jNUl242LqbUazX5vUrhZEeA9shnwAVTxrmHFfAKNUb21oX66HKEI2bFzrm6hp_x6IHyfu-S7SSmH54lRdgM8dtTfRxpCPDeE/s200/australian-desert-animals-pictures-Desert_Snake-picture.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It has been 14 years since the <a href="http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/">Biodiversity Conservation Act</a>
was enacted in 1999. This piece of legislation has served as the cornerstone
for all Australian environmental legislation that has since followed. The goal
is to preserve and protect flora, fauna, and ecological heritage sites from
damage and pollution. Australia is a nation of large wilderness of many diverse
landscapes. In working with the states and territories, their legacy can be
preserved in their original states, untouched by humans, as a living monument
to the natural world as well as helping as natural carbon captures.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Yo3oATa0vouDeEUkM9NiEkHFVYAA33foPBgel3suyfp0L0h5ldNHE6dwz1pVNocAjEJL7aU_LJIU7crLUImLHZ9Z-fF5d1KVSbu8LV2NbemssFst7rOI1qhPohgG0O17NonatJbSBsA/s1600/Painted-Cliffs-Maria-Island-Tasmania-Australia.-Photo-credit-JJ-Harrison.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8Yo3oATa0vouDeEUkM9NiEkHFVYAA33foPBgel3suyfp0L0h5ldNHE6dwz1pVNocAjEJL7aU_LJIU7crLUImLHZ9Z-fF5d1KVSbu8LV2NbemssFst7rOI1qhPohgG0O17NonatJbSBsA/s640/Painted-Cliffs-Maria-Island-Tasmania-Australia.-Photo-credit-JJ-Harrison.2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sustainability</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip-nteOcgQLeCAYQiiQ4TzXrpmSqNPqxjl4DPj9Y5nSRWTEORRFMlXPdYu2cOY_erbU3I1YLDhGS4lRFh22-WQmqDuiGxHcUxAG1zuJjqQdWIc1hr55G8SjZsJyeAG_Om9o_vMBJGbCKI/s1600/Sustainability.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip-nteOcgQLeCAYQiiQ4TzXrpmSqNPqxjl4DPj9Y5nSRWTEORRFMlXPdYu2cOY_erbU3I1YLDhGS4lRFh22-WQmqDuiGxHcUxAG1zuJjqQdWIc1hr55G8SjZsJyeAG_Om9o_vMBJGbCKI/s200/Sustainability.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Environmental sustainability is an important issue as
urban communities continue to grow. A $2 billion plan is meant to ensure
biodiversity of Australia’s natural environment while bringing forth
sustainable agricultural practices. There are 56 regional natural resource
management groups that are working in conjunction with the government to
protect untouched areas of the country, minimize damage to animal habits, and
to ensure that natural carbon capture within forested areas are not cut down so
as not to increase emissions.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pollution and
Waste Management</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBOWlc47FPn-rwMhurr9LApPWdvPUcNntVxSpfo0RVDyTq7wCgCNl_VvBWUMmOq7TUBABq03wDWZ6lj3ezJ-L_q-Jr8ZzuvYwrvwgq51_trI1EIwYzwWgzfw_OmoKx6IRouCHHLtiQvPs/s1600/living_green_in_australia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBOWlc47FPn-rwMhurr9LApPWdvPUcNntVxSpfo0RVDyTq7wCgCNl_VvBWUMmOq7TUBABq03wDWZ6lj3ezJ-L_q-Jr8ZzuvYwrvwgq51_trI1EIwYzwWgzfw_OmoKx6IRouCHHLtiQvPs/s200/living_green_in_australia.jpg" width="171" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The <a href="http://www.environment.gov.au/wastepolicy/index.html">National Waste
Policy</a> outlines the nation’s waste management and recycling
programs, currently dated to include implementations until 2020. Between 2002
and 2007, Australia has noticed a 31% increase in waste generation. Much of
this increase is in technologically outdated commercial goods, which may
contain metals and chemicals that are harmful to the environment, in addition
to taking up space in landfills. The aims of this policy are meant to serve 4
goals: reducing waste generation, re-imagining waste as a resource, safe disposal,
and the reduction of contaminants entering the environment from landfill sites.
Part of the mandate of this proposal also includes an adherence to monitoring
and accurate data collection.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Water</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR3I-OXF6yzXJ2cZzwpRP8bwMx82_w0hyMmDYt7gqWDlwfV-g6iWSuqdnxhUnbS66T6JAQF1BK66T0NhTEiS9h7vcl9qjpe_yp8fLWLlt0l07P0Ed4Bbf7eUHwvUe3-ZE9URiYFEaUoBE/s1600/explore-cities-sydney-beaches-beckon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR3I-OXF6yzXJ2cZzwpRP8bwMx82_w0hyMmDYt7gqWDlwfV-g6iWSuqdnxhUnbS66T6JAQF1BK66T0NhTEiS9h7vcl9qjpe_yp8fLWLlt0l07P0Ed4Bbf7eUHwvUe3-ZE9URiYFEaUoBE/s200/explore-cities-sydney-beaches-beckon.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The <a href="http://www.nwcjamaica.com/">National Water
Commission</a> was created from the <a href="http://www.moj.gov.jm/sites/default/files/laws/National%20Water%20Commission.pdf">National Water
Commission Act</a> in 2004 and further amended last year. This gives
them the authority to manage Australia’s water systems through the <a href="http://www.environment.gov.au/water/australia/water-act/index.html#water-act">Water Act</a>
of 2007. They also work in conjunction with regional, state, territorial, and
local authorities in water management and conservation practices. Current major projects include the
Murray-Darling Basin audit. The <a href="http://www.nwcjamaica.com/">Commission</a>
acts as an independent reviewer in such audits in order to find areas where
increased water resource management can benefit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCd_7Hf0Z6EfMiJvGoWscnjdM5K_E6OXCu57lxBq8Q4_LHMzIZEL6VBlAUvq-Loagw2CiSmbsyJMCpXvEna6nZbXZGonbaZBONXC1L6IuU6Bl2VZgYoPkmmv7Ewe2_GIzQpNZWKQcCG0g/s1600/murraydarlingriver2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCd_7Hf0Z6EfMiJvGoWscnjdM5K_E6OXCu57lxBq8Q4_LHMzIZEL6VBlAUvq-Loagw2CiSmbsyJMCpXvEna6nZbXZGonbaZBONXC1L6IuU6Bl2VZgYoPkmmv7Ewe2_GIzQpNZWKQcCG0g/s640/murraydarlingriver2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">What the Future
for Australia Holds</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Australia is one of the more progressive developed
nations that is working towards an environmental strategy that balances
environmental action with sustainability. This is a difficult thing to manage
and the upcoming election shows exactly that. People have many different ideas
of what a sound environmental strategy is. So far, Australians have benefitted
from a government that has looked for national solutions as well as has
contributed to global organizations in a leadership role. Let’s hope that
Australia continues to be an example for the rest of the developed world and
show that environmental action can work with sustainability!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Sources: <a href="http://www.environment.gov.au/atmosphere/airquality/publications/sok/chapter3.html">Atmosphere AU</a>, <a href="http://nwc.gov.au/">NWC.gov.au</a>, <a href="http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/about/index.html">Environment AU</a>, <a href="http://www.environment.gov.au/sustainability/population/publications/pubs/population-strategy.pdf">Sustainability AU</a>, <a href="http://www.climatechange.gov.au/government.aspx">Climate Change AU</a>, <a href="http://www.cleanenergyfuture.gov.au/clean-energy-future/our-plan/">Clean Energy Future</a>, <a href="http://www.environment.gov.au/">Environment AU</a>, <a href="http://australia.gov.au/topics/environment-and-natural-resources">Australia.gov.au</a>, <a href="http://www.benefits-of-recycling.com/">Benefits of Recycling</a>, <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/national/emissions-surge-to-record-level-20110530-1fctm.html">The Age</a>, <a href="http://www.australia.com/explore/cities/sydney/nsw-sydney-beaches.aspx">Australia.com</a>, <a href="http://www.socialstudiesforkids.com/articles/geography/murraydarlingriver.htm">Social Studies</a>, <a href="http://marinesciencetoday.com/2012/11/28/workshop-focuses-on-effect-of-human-activity-on-marine-life/">Marine Science Today</a>, <a href="http://petwildanimalswallpapers.blogspot.ca/2011/04/australian-desert-animals-pictures.html">Desert Animals</a>, <a href="http://desalination.edu.au/2012/06/world-environment-day-desalination-and-green-energy-in-australia/">Desalination AU</a>, <a href="http://www.abc.net.au/environment/articles/2012/10/26/3618724.htm">Environment ABC</a>, <a href="http://www.publicworks.nsw.gov.au/updates/government-architect%E2%80%99s-office-wins-clean-energy-australia-award">Public Works Green Energy Award</a>, <a href="http://www.nccarf.edu.au/">NCCARF</a>, <a href="http://www.tonycharters.com/TourforceEd26.html">Tony Charters</a>, <a href="http://www.fanpop.com/clubs/micketo/images/24194260/title/beautiful-australia-screencap">Beautiful Australia</a></span></div>
<br />Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-71824666979109885132013-02-18T10:01:00.000-08:002013-02-18T10:16:16.846-08:00How Canada is Working Towards a Positive Environmental Strategy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQ7iCyB6BwMunZUREMUHjMBkth0BMEH1sVJHaPSqyK7IUmLEo5ZAhAkncZVs78o9iMF5OdeIB8jOT16mN1q6gXpF8RSuJN0x-jtyE2GySsMcVHm6dk_hgHMVMLQGUvphuBIWYE4M7oxU/s1600/End.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="100" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQ7iCyB6BwMunZUREMUHjMBkth0BMEH1sVJHaPSqyK7IUmLEo5ZAhAkncZVs78o9iMF5OdeIB8jOT16mN1q6gXpF8RSuJN0x-jtyE2GySsMcVHm6dk_hgHMVMLQGUvphuBIWYE4M7oxU/s200/End.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In December 2012, Canada became the first signatory
nation to formally withdraw from the <a href="http://unfccc.int/kyoto_protocol/items/2830.php">Kyoto Accord</a>, an agreement between nations to
limit and reduce greenhouse gases. This
follows a long line of negative global publicity that the Canadian government
has taken when it comes to global environmental issues. In reading and r<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6628117816664821862" name="_GoBack"></a>esearching
Canada’s role as an environmental advocate, it can become disheartening, however,
<b>Canada is not just sitting back and
doing nothing</b>.</span></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In this article, we explore what Canada <b>is</b> doing when it comes to several key
areas of the environment. Instead of
focusing on the negative, we want to know, what role is Canada taking
domestically and internationally to deal with environmental issues and climate
change? How are these initiatives being
achieved? Have they had any
success? In this piece, we dig deeper to
find those areas of environmental action that are positive!</span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZuRcyOrZ68UVLaFQd_d64tEFD_7ee4A_125ZC7z90OKEvqtJDDTbBO28W6rA1zBl1iF2DgE4hQfP_7nOMojHBaAs-jHUh72BEm9Oeh0Y9aWVnla4YFtBMjETDBU1luNDs8-FA_t_KNdc/s1600/canada.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZuRcyOrZ68UVLaFQd_d64tEFD_7ee4A_125ZC7z90OKEvqtJDDTbBO28W6rA1zBl1iF2DgE4hQfP_7nOMojHBaAs-jHUh72BEm9Oeh0Y9aWVnla4YFtBMjETDBU1luNDs8-FA_t_KNdc/s640/canada.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Air</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The quality of Canada’s air has long been something to be
proud of, especially with the amount of wilderness Canada has. The <a href="http://www.ec.gc.ca/cas-aqhi/">Air Quality Health Index (AQHI)</a>
was established in 2005 in order to help people understand how air quality can
affect their health and how to protect themselves from long term damage. This
is a scale between 1 and 10 can be easily found with real time information. The
risk level varies from low (1) to high (10+) and the index provides information
on who is most at risk during that time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-oGRXylIeTiSVRkUhAQxT0Q98lZ293ayFtDHe1qFEzywKc_78NoaXWjQOsCTnQ9pjYlfRPrj4jsi5UsLahnqwhqyCITZ60sjs79EpgpcCxznF8aUVjnTz7aXluhfFzyAQzpGuzXqCZWc/s1600/Air-quality-index-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-oGRXylIeTiSVRkUhAQxT0Q98lZ293ayFtDHe1qFEzywKc_78NoaXWjQOsCTnQ9pjYlfRPrj4jsi5UsLahnqwhqyCITZ60sjs79EpgpcCxznF8aUVjnTz7aXluhfFzyAQzpGuzXqCZWc/s320/Air-quality-index-1.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkNwfprOm6KdReY3AMBHIeOR9YzpTeFgI0OhTn6PDHKboFpeEi5Q6KVgyBDdd7-evM4ThzyVRn7BrZcQOLEftxBlQu9HwzMUVfBq_ZHBGJH-fw3ABRovItD-sH7hh0eqNv_4fv4y5gT8U/s1600/Air-quality-index-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkNwfprOm6KdReY3AMBHIeOR9YzpTeFgI0OhTn6PDHKboFpeEi5Q6KVgyBDdd7-evM4ThzyVRn7BrZcQOLEftxBlQu9HwzMUVfBq_ZHBGJH-fw3ABRovItD-sH7hh0eqNv_4fv4y5gT8U/s320/Air-quality-index-2.jpg" width="264" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgajbCwX4Ft0WgCl4Y4vkEV0POgmHoLJNk_pdHvh8b1VlWwuf35rGDqlAaT6-2rJS_lpq8Wy6yJIqubtMKH_WNaFPaLgHXrZMUZg6I-lSXg8u3PWNktGyd7VBc8zHLRIZ02MmmBsqSdBXQ/s1600/Air-quality-index-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjTeetDWH1aNrW8QmqIY6GtSKFiGx6BtilnMo4EwL5hkWPdIHI5SWWKYMqx4Wno72oDIxguYCtHNFyrHbHJ3LaCXdfDBBjQIxvKNfr-SiuZvMFiUoWJZU4qiayjfM_9F17RZLJ2yzaimA/s1600/Air-quality-index-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjTeetDWH1aNrW8QmqIY6GtSKFiGx6BtilnMo4EwL5hkWPdIHI5SWWKYMqx4Wno72oDIxguYCtHNFyrHbHJ3LaCXdfDBBjQIxvKNfr-SiuZvMFiUoWJZU4qiayjfM_9F17RZLJ2yzaimA/s320/Air-quality-index-3.jpg" width="320" /></a><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgajbCwX4Ft0WgCl4Y4vkEV0POgmHoLJNk_pdHvh8b1VlWwuf35rGDqlAaT6-2rJS_lpq8Wy6yJIqubtMKH_WNaFPaLgHXrZMUZg6I-lSXg8u3PWNktGyd7VBc8zHLRIZ02MmmBsqSdBXQ/s320/Air-quality-index-4.jpg" width="285" /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The AQHI
was established to do much more than provide information to people, it also
provides information to researchers and government organizations. This allows them to trend air quality
patterns in order to understand how Canadian air changes over time, which
regions of the country are worst, and what can be done about it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As per the <a href="http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/C-15.31/">Canadian Environmental Protection Act</a>, all
industries are required to provide reports on their air pollution. This is done through the Environment Canada
and is made available for Canadians through the <a href="http://www.ec.gc.ca/inrp-npri/">National
Pollutant Release Inventory</a>.
As a signatory to the <a href="http://unfccc.int/2860.php">United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change</a>, Canada is also required to make this
information available to the UN.</span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9CSqbpdcytYI3Jhw_CyUm708we01B7enzOtLNeIbGC9EWR63BGl-0ipZ50jEGPHEo-g2u8AhLg2GQF_9Poz2SWDpxG6uam_QxIGkxfBk1YILBS1HMAvWT5OKSSv3IM4-eAdpx_985cek/s1600/iStock_000011906458Large_blowing_bubbles_copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9CSqbpdcytYI3Jhw_CyUm708we01B7enzOtLNeIbGC9EWR63BGl-0ipZ50jEGPHEo-g2u8AhLg2GQF_9Poz2SWDpxG6uam_QxIGkxfBk1YILBS1HMAvWT5OKSSv3IM4-eAdpx_985cek/s640/iStock_000011906458Large_blowing_bubbles_copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Climate Change</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVD-Lspa_UYzPf2P_pHkWbXjX08NgZboNqg4cwvkkjfd7K_-VqedazeWQS0rjEPHrMgkZDF1zI5Jdbhjgc59F88YqD0YCEX_A8kebOIKj9p2vf9co_oN-cmymtxmsCmwPMQWZD8zEKtTM/s1600/canada-mens-journal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVD-Lspa_UYzPf2P_pHkWbXjX08NgZboNqg4cwvkkjfd7K_-VqedazeWQS0rjEPHrMgkZDF1zI5Jdbhjgc59F88YqD0YCEX_A8kebOIKj9p2vf9co_oN-cmymtxmsCmwPMQWZD8zEKtTM/s200/canada-mens-journal.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In 2009, Canada signed the <a href="http://unfccc.int/meetings/copenhagen_dec_2009/items/5262.php">Copenhagen Accord</a>,
where reduction targets in greenhouse gases were set for 17% below 2005 levels.
This is to be reached by 2020. In order to reach this goal, several initiatives
are required in multiple industries, regions of the country, and in the
changing of societal views. The
government of Canada has contributed to several individual projects, such as
carbon capture and storage at the Boundary Dam in Saskatchewan to a mandate for
all gasoline to have 5% minimum renewable fuel.
</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The majority of Canada’s contributions are based in
investments and the funding of individual programs; however, legislative
changes have occurred as well. In late
2010, Canada supported the <a href="http://cancun.unfccc.int/">Cancun Agreement</a> on
climate change as well as the <a href="http://unfccc.int/files/meetings/durban_nov_2011/decisions/application/pdf/cop17_durbanplatform.pdf">Durban Platform</a> in
late 2011. All in all, between 2005 and 2010, the Canadian economy grew 6.3%
while greenhouse gas emissions fell 6.5%. As of August 2012, Canada reached the
halfway mark of attaining their goal as stated in the <a href="http://unfccc.int/meetings/copenhagen_dec_2009/items/5262.php">Copenhagen Accord</a>.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Enforcement</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxXYiOU0Ii4907igYJzWLABmq4S2qB73PB0Q78qKNmNTvMUfCoazjLHFzNN6RajhSS3ZyFGWh9LCuUh2OhIIDYstQD4DZZfWy0Is4-ZJoQL4VeqDuU8BUyRubx8-0156jD6WGsqgNTPuA/s1600/Environment+Canada+Sampling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxXYiOU0Ii4907igYJzWLABmq4S2qB73PB0Q78qKNmNTvMUfCoazjLHFzNN6RajhSS3ZyFGWh9LCuUh2OhIIDYstQD4DZZfWy0Is4-ZJoQL4VeqDuU8BUyRubx8-0156jD6WGsqgNTPuA/s200/Environment+Canada+Sampling.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Canada’s <a href="http://www.ec.gc.ca/alef-ewe/default.asp?lang=En&n=2AAFD90B-1">Environmental Enforcement Act</a>
became active in late 2010 and serves three purposes. First, it has consolidated six previous acts
into one bill for more rapid and efficient act of the law. Second, it has amended fines and sentencing guidelines
to become more stringent and deterrent based.
Finally, through this Act, Canada has created partnerships within
domestic enforcement agencies and with those around the world including the <a href="http://www.epa.gov/">United
States Environmental Protection Agency</a> and <a href="http://www.interpol.int/">Interpol</a>
in order to crack down on larger scale acts of environmental polluting or
terrorism.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Nature</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeamfegyZCB4wLJOGBBq8TX37w4jzAxfSaLV07laBJtCTyK7XGFFDEKnQqMJ2NSgW8HE4ApqfCYcL_4CA7sNr3cAzaQ3IwBQ43Da0WSqUavbOQojuPPd37GMiQ2w1iZWaCvd-5l3zmsAU/s1600/Nature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeamfegyZCB4wLJOGBBq8TX37w4jzAxfSaLV07laBJtCTyK7XGFFDEKnQqMJ2NSgW8HE4ApqfCYcL_4CA7sNr3cAzaQ3IwBQ43Da0WSqUavbOQojuPPd37GMiQ2w1iZWaCvd-5l3zmsAU/s200/Nature.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In late 2012, a survey was initiated by the Government of
Canada through the <a href="http://www.biodivcanada.ca/default.asp?lang=en&n=560ED58E-1">Canadian Biodiversity Strategy</a>. As in other Canadian initiatives, the
government is working towards an understanding of what Canadians know about the
areas of wilderness in the country. This
includes understanding personal leisure behaviours such as camping, hunting,
and fishing in both urban and rural areas.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtoh54_SGqFVEDohrnkQTkEOUiDwVlSxJWLeJPccqUypSZd2YF4DythBC42qX4-Jdx7-PBIYa1RZ-iaiHlvXvkLFXns1e_xc1l5BvXOJyB9pwoOFMlUAi63YgD3OqBBwdt_FWoq5bSAC4/s1600/environment-canada.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="57" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtoh54_SGqFVEDohrnkQTkEOUiDwVlSxJWLeJPccqUypSZd2YF4DythBC42qX4-Jdx7-PBIYa1RZ-iaiHlvXvkLFXns1e_xc1l5BvXOJyB9pwoOFMlUAi63YgD3OqBBwdt_FWoq5bSAC4/s200/environment-canada.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Canada’s goal on biodiversity is to protect habits and
species within them. This is managed in
conjunction with enabling our wilderness areas to be accessible to those who
choose to use them and experience their beauty under what is known as Access
and Benefit sharing. Canada’s signing of
the <a href="http://www.cbd.int/">Convention
of Biological Diversity</a> is meant to protect natural habits for
specifically this purpose, especially as biotechnology companies increase
pressure on governments to extract from these areas.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pollution and
Waste</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In 2012, Canada released a study that examined pollution
in the air, water, and land between 2006 and 2010. Through reduction policies
that target the manufacturing sector and natural resource industries, total
pollutant annual releases have decreased 19% during this period. The <a href="https://www.ec.gc.ca/p2/default.asp?lang=En&n=1246ADE2-1&offset=6&toc=show">Federal Action Plan of Pollution
Prevention</a> also has worked with specific large corporations in
finding ways for them to reduce pollution to the environment while maintaining business
sustainability.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Science and
Technology</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEg3_TmK0dEjrVwNpjkcDgRSvjPoNDBZeHWjk-YimgBcgT3AvEJAcf6VnYxWafsI9MQcx2t7NtcvR_blleQufCVKkWmqNhxYCx_FVM2gFxNhM_5bNGE0D2u3aWXETOM4i7QKGBSxfxS2I/s1600/0135153808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEg3_TmK0dEjrVwNpjkcDgRSvjPoNDBZeHWjk-YimgBcgT3AvEJAcf6VnYxWafsI9MQcx2t7NtcvR_blleQufCVKkWmqNhxYCx_FVM2gFxNhM_5bNGE0D2u3aWXETOM4i7QKGBSxfxS2I/s200/0135153808.jpg" width="150" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Canada is constantly investing is all areas of science
and technology in order to preserve and maintain environmental goals. While their involvement in this area is not
direct, their funding of private programs has had a significant impact on the
betterment of Canada’s environment.
Projects that have received funding include:</span></div>
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<ul><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO3N88g0iJWzgZQi69IdUKb6IbxdxjYdXwrBs8qLPwx1dH8uBq1R4iTz2uTsdSWKSrCJJT0mFuMUNJ3LlGIeEolsIFzd6melvDPlRDqteAxtsDbNVdVaosn8eifX-b3_ZqU1LHEJE4Vrg/s1600/Tech.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO3N88g0iJWzgZQi69IdUKb6IbxdxjYdXwrBs8qLPwx1dH8uBq1R4iTz2uTsdSWKSrCJJT0mFuMUNJ3LlGIeEolsIFzd6melvDPlRDqteAxtsDbNVdVaosn8eifX-b3_ZqU1LHEJE4Vrg/s200/Tech.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="144" /></a>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">$281 million for clean energy,</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">$500 million in helping new construction projects reduce
greenhouse gas emissions, and</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">$1.2 billion for environmental development in developing
nations.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">What is even more positive about Canada’s investment
strategy is that it is truly global. By
investing in developing nations, Canada is helping others to benefit from new
and emerging technologies.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sustainable
Development</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sustainable development has become one of the main
components of any environmental strategy, whether you are an individual or a
government. This means acting based on
the needs of today without sacrificing future generations. On June 16, 2011, Canada released its first
ever <a href="http://www.ec.gc.ca/Publications/1EBF1BCC-3074-4A1B-A776-66AA73A27B08/ProgressReportOnTheFederalSustainableDevelopmentStrategy2010-2013.pdf">Progress Report on the Federal
Sustainable Development Strategy</a>.
This was the first step as outlined in the <a href="http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/F-8.6/">Federal Sustainable Development Act</a>, passed in
2010, to show what is needed to be done in Canada in terms of setting up a
foundation for sustainable development.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This is an area that is still in its infancy stages in
Canada. However, the Act and subsequent
report shows that action is being taken to outline areas of need. Movement towards individual implementation
plans have not yet occurred but are underway.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Water</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMAlhneszM60zrdL1VEEOEjqcxKiB5Lai_f0JHD6lx8uYx-dy3uFeWrvZl-EEIdO-ncqcf2SVPRAe8w91UO1Q7QDz4We9Dj1XXtVI2NlVEb0Sb0Q_uEvsJLB61RSggUuSQFX42tGYrtNY/s1600/niagarafalls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMAlhneszM60zrdL1VEEOEjqcxKiB5Lai_f0JHD6lx8uYx-dy3uFeWrvZl-EEIdO-ncqcf2SVPRAe8w91UO1Q7QDz4We9Dj1XXtVI2NlVEb0Sb0Q_uEvsJLB61RSggUuSQFX42tGYrtNY/s200/niagarafalls.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Protecting Canada’s fresh water is not just a domestic
issue; it is a global issue. Canada has over 7% of the entire world’s fresh
water reserves, the most out of any single country. We are also the only nation to border three
separate oceans, which means a necessary action plan for these as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Canada has constructed more than 3,000 sites across the
country that measures our waterways for physical, chemical, and biological
characteristics. The goal is to know about any changes immediately so that action
can be taken if issues arise. This is a part of the <a href="http://www.ec.gc.ca/eau-water/default.asp?lang=En&n=B1128A3D-1">Action Plan for Clean Water</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The <a href="http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/oceans/publications/oap-pao/index-eng.asp">Oceans Action Plan</a>
sets out to protect our oceans and all marine species contains within
them. Right now, we are in Phase I of
this plan. This is meant to deal with issues of overfishing, international
management, and the creation of specific action plans for regions including the
Scotian Shelf, Pacific North Coast, Gulf of St. Lawrence, and many more. Once
the research has been completed (a 2 year project), work can begin on
sustainable development, protection, and preservation.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL_EV-0bmlO3JRuNhNslHgevcmplSOGnUKK7HgWL_pSREAMyNgQv9teNQnVPyvS7ol2kDEeJBVvSXkKvxy_y_QQU3OVDsYXqjChqThCr_TDnKxFpHqEQwqg4KHYOXHCluC6EroMcPCg2M/s1600/Newfoundland.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL_EV-0bmlO3JRuNhNslHgevcmplSOGnUKK7HgWL_pSREAMyNgQv9teNQnVPyvS7ol2kDEeJBVvSXkKvxy_y_QQU3OVDsYXqjChqThCr_TDnKxFpHqEQwqg4KHYOXHCluC6EroMcPCg2M/s640/Newfoundland.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Canada’s Future
Role in the Environment</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Canada will continue to adhere to its goals as set in the
<a href="http://unfccc.int/meetings/copenhagen_dec_2009/items/5262.php">Copenhagen Accord</a>. While the nation has just passed the halfway
mark toward reaching emissions of 17% below 2005 levels, there is still much
work to do before the 2020 deadline. This will involve more investment into
technologies and initiatives in the private sector. Canada’s Environmental
Emergencies Fund, established from fines taken from enforcement policing, is
also helping to deal with unaccounted for events in order to mitigate or
minimize environmental concerns.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The majority of policies and initiatives mentioned here
are in their stages of infancy. Most are
within two years old and have only have initial planning stages completed. It will remain interesting to see how
implementation takes place and what its effects will be!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQ7iCyB6BwMunZUREMUHjMBkth0BMEH1sVJHaPSqyK7IUmLEo5ZAhAkncZVs78o9iMF5OdeIB8jOT16mN1q6gXpF8RSuJN0x-jtyE2GySsMcVHm6dk_hgHMVMLQGUvphuBIWYE4M7oxU/s1600/End.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipQ7iCyB6BwMunZUREMUHjMBkth0BMEH1sVJHaPSqyK7IUmLEo5ZAhAkncZVs78o9iMF5OdeIB8jOT16mN1q6gXpF8RSuJN0x-jtyE2GySsMcVHm6dk_hgHMVMLQGUvphuBIWYE4M7oxU/s640/End.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Sources:<b> </b><a href="http://o.canada.com/2012/12/14/its-official-harper-government-withdraws-from-kyoto-climate-agreement/">O Canada</a>, <a href="http://www.ec.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=en">Environment Canada</a>, <a href="http://www.ceaa-acee.gc.ca/default.asp?lang=En">CEAA</a>, <a href="http://climatechange.gc.ca/Content/1/C/D/1CD1DFC3-5149-4D61-A7C3-2D9CF7E65F8C/TIMELINE.pdf">Climate Change</a>, <a href="http://survivalmanadventures.com/SurvivalVillage/?p=187">Adventure</a>, <a href="http://www.theurbanityblog.com/?p=139">Urbanity</a>, <a href="http://archive.mensjournal.com/canada">Mens Journal</a>, <a href="http://frugalis.ca/v3/tag/niagara-falls/page/3/">Niagara</a>, <a href="http://blog.newswire.ca/wordpress-mu/2011/07/08/cnw-photo-of-the-month-june-2011/">Newfoundland</a>, <a href="http://catalogue.pearsoned.ca/educator/product/Environmental-Science-A-Canadian-Perspective-Fifth-Canadian-Edition/0135153808.page">Environmental Science</a></span></div>
Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-86096773167530213812013-01-23T14:13:00.007-08:002013-01-23T14:14:11.478-08:00How to Go Green at Work<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Much like </span><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/12/how-to-go-green-at-school.html" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">going
green at school</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">, going green at work can sometimes have a larger impact than
</span><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/11/how-to-go-green-at-home.html" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">going
green at home</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> due to the number of people that can be involved. By helping
your office make better eco-choices, you can also encourage your colleagues to
make similar changes in the rest of their lives!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEtaakPKfKI3ptF1iakAFpqOPfUAxnzA69U3HgVwpoTWFyPxgFaMQf8c3YCx1OtGY-Ydxqw8Y8W6QFNW4F8vPu1CMnpINrP-hCOBNa-f-lFwqsv4JI389Hf3DTW0DjDf6s2rVcLNCJ208/s1600/greenheroes-2k39gce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEtaakPKfKI3ptF1iakAFpqOPfUAxnzA69U3HgVwpoTWFyPxgFaMQf8c3YCx1OtGY-Ydxqw8Y8W6QFNW4F8vPu1CMnpINrP-hCOBNa-f-lFwqsv4JI389Hf3DTW0DjDf6s2rVcLNCJ208/s640/greenheroes-2k39gce.jpg" width="628" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2LEkVf6_cKajOalBiuS9EjUQv90rgts9csc4Af6OOnlz7eEXdYn6Eqj6TGzidQ1At4w7nGj7Aqt6TOxZcHWp-XyMYaoOlXjYf9FPsApSuC7cB5v9QPy-mFEfTzBXNRSGeFrsCQlcYbI/s1600/green-office-participants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR2LEkVf6_cKajOalBiuS9EjUQv90rgts9csc4Af6OOnlz7eEXdYn6Eqj6TGzidQ1At4w7nGj7Aqt6TOxZcHWp-XyMYaoOlXjYf9FPsApSuC7cB5v9QPy-mFEfTzBXNRSGeFrsCQlcYbI/s200/green-office-participants.jpg" width="200" /></a><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Encourage your
company to develop a greenhouse gas inventory</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">An inventory includes a list of emission sources as well
as the amount of standardized accompanying emissions. The majority of a
company’s emissions tend to come from building heating and cooling, fleet
vehicles, electricity use, and employee travel. Small companies can calculate
their emissions and carbon footprint <a href="http://www.epa.gov/climateleadership/smallbiz/footprint.html">here</a>. The <a href="http://www.epa.gov/climateleadership/">EPA’s Center for Corporate Climate Leadership</a> is a resource
center to help organizations identify and achieve cost-effective GHG emission
reductions. Environment Canada also has <a href="http://www.ec.gc.ca/cei-iee/default.asp?lang=en&n=DC145895-1">resources for businesses</a> about
sustainable development planning, reporting, and programs.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Use renewable and
sustainable power</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4rk-ZRYaSttcVQQVH_38JdeCT4jcjgrPp0TORRlg-5gm3FNeiEJppMnzbDWPMamsKz2wM3YxAaoboNfquTfFIqnnr9g2M5QUBya0gODMMP864ATMhB75ddVpl1ju_4LUl0_F-3pWxRAE/s1600/greenpower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4rk-ZRYaSttcVQQVH_38JdeCT4jcjgrPp0TORRlg-5gm3FNeiEJppMnzbDWPMamsKz2wM3YxAaoboNfquTfFIqnnr9g2M5QUBya0gODMMP864ATMhB75ddVpl1ju_4LUl0_F-3pWxRAE/s200/greenpower.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Though some regions generate their grid power from
cleaner energy sources such as hydropower other regions source their grid power
from emission-heavy fossil fuel powered plants. Consequently, emissions from
electricity generated from fossil fuels can have a significant impact the
environment and your organization's carbon footprint. Green power is
electricity that is generated from renewable energy sources such as wind, sun,
geothermal, and biomass. Purchasing your power from renewable energy sources is
an effective way for your organization to reduce its carbon footprint and
environmental impact. Visit the EPA's <a href="http://www.epa.gov/greenpower">Green Power Partnership</a> for information
on how to purchase green power in the United States. In Canada your business
can purchase green power from <a href="http://www.bullfrogpower.com/">Bullfrog Power</a>.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Use public
transportation, bike, walk, or carpool to work</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Instead of using your car, why not save your gas money
and get a little exercise at the same time by biking or walking to work! If you
do need to drive, organize a carpool or take public transit to limit the number
of cars on the road. A smaller number of cars on the road mean less carbon
emissions. Leaving your car at home just two days a week can reduce your
greenhouse gas emissions by an average of two tons per year.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Telecommunicate
instead of travelling on a plane to meet clients</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXEF0JMuQyIeD3tENXsJDrkDI5hmK7xFF2L8vmaWngmqR3iKTjg2CYn1iE_xzDbqJeWpBQnAc2PjA80-KXJSwNW6x2ofBHwT55SAWPJlJrJ0tOFEzwCF6FnglmUuf6xBYCjwKOx8tomRE/s1600/go-green-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXEF0JMuQyIeD3tENXsJDrkDI5hmK7xFF2L8vmaWngmqR3iKTjg2CYn1iE_xzDbqJeWpBQnAc2PjA80-KXJSwNW6x2ofBHwT55SAWPJlJrJ0tOFEzwCF6FnglmUuf6xBYCjwKOx8tomRE/s200/go-green-5.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Flying is resource intensive and produces large carbon
emissions; you can prevent the need to fly by phone, audio and
video conferencing instead. You can also save money, time, and reduce stress by
teleconferencing. If you must travel consider alternate less carbon intensive
modes of transport such as trains. Train travel is estimated to produce 90
percent fewer emissions than flying. You could also consider telecommuting for
your everyday work if possible; this could also reduce your emissions and save
you waiting in traffic every day. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(Learn more about
airplane emissions in our article about <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/07/the-green-passport-initiative-changing.html">The
Green Passport Initiative</a>!)<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Install smart
power strips to turn off electronics completely </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The energy used to power electronics in offices can be
greatly reduced if they are turned off when not needed instead of left on
standby to continuously suck up energy. For example did you know that a
600-watt photocopier left on standby for 24 hours a day uses about $750 of
electricity in a year? If it is turned on only during normal working hours, two
thirds of this electricity could be saved. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-tech/sustainable/smart-power-strip.htm">Smart strips</a> turn off devices and
prevent phantom energy from continuously flowing through them. Electronics such
as computers, printers, scanners and copiers should be plugged into smart
strips which stop drawing power when your gadgets are on standby or are turned
off. For example, when a printer plugged into a basic smart strip goes into
standby mode, its power consumption drops. Consequently, the circuitry detects
the change and cuts the power to that outlet but the rest of the outlets in use
stay on. As a result both energy associated emissions and costs will be reduced.</span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjocEVvgBYoUignwCwVORPMOincAF6w5e-IFJN7NAoMY13_sbAWkw5wFpDjjGp4k4j7XIbA3fVptqZ9Cl9HhBDm7dFsGI7LPZDZTEJBFv7gyJVmg2EPExIgYZfq9FXN_M6JlW66dJgbYs0/s1600/smartstrip.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="164" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjocEVvgBYoUignwCwVORPMOincAF6w5e-IFJN7NAoMY13_sbAWkw5wFpDjjGp4k4j7XIbA3fVptqZ9Cl9HhBDm7dFsGI7LPZDZTEJBFv7gyJVmg2EPExIgYZfq9FXN_M6JlW66dJgbYs0/s640/smartstrip.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Switch
to energy efficient lighting and turn lights off when not in use</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbuumnY3yw4yvcUo1IjOLiNFW2-kpQ4k69O33wtwr5otcg3verulhY3tu6irmHBrTovioJPXWB99_LYkv4VIJNYtQOgOgdSkSgXK9L7lWRRtgytd8SzeP05AfzyeZALE1huhWyYFZx3pk/s1600/energystar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbuumnY3yw4yvcUo1IjOLiNFW2-kpQ4k69O33wtwr5otcg3verulhY3tu6irmHBrTovioJPXWB99_LYkv4VIJNYtQOgOgdSkSgXK9L7lWRRtgytd8SzeP05AfzyeZALE1huhWyYFZx3pk/s1600/energystar.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Refit your workplace with energy saving light bulbs
labelled <a href="http://www.energystar.gov/">ENERGY STAR®</a> to help the
environment as well as help your company save money on the electricity bill! <a href="http://www.bchydro.com/guides_tips/green-your-home/lighting_guide/energy_efficient_lighting.html">Compact fluorescent light</a>
(CFL) bulbs use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs and can last up to 10
times longer. <a href="http://www.bchydro.com/guides_tips/green-your-home/lighting_guide/LED_lighting.html">Light emitting diode</a>
(LED) lights are an emerging technology and are also 75% more efficient than
incandescent bulbs. LEDs can last even longer than CFLs—lasting 15 to 20 times
longer than incandescent bulbs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If your workplace occupants are having difficulty
regularly turning off the lights you can install motion or occupant sensors,
which automatically turn off lighting when no one is present and come back on
when they return.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Recycle everything you can</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW_Vx4FiEBzFkzIZMXMIsY081BQ1545uD8j9Utn3bsPbcCAElOBHX66wUxb58QlLl6yoBC7zhxqCNsBjWd2euYLIinjjRHu_kzJRC339R-c3RJ6dbRYdnSzoeFsJzMEjI6F9p7boTiUK8/s1600/green-keyboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW_Vx4FiEBzFkzIZMXMIsY081BQ1545uD8j9Utn3bsPbcCAElOBHX66wUxb58QlLl6yoBC7zhxqCNsBjWd2euYLIinjjRHu_kzJRC339R-c3RJ6dbRYdnSzoeFsJzMEjI6F9p7boTiUK8/s200/green-keyboard.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="entry-content">Recycling reduces the size and affect of landfills, helps conserve
natural resources, decreases pollution, and saves energy. Ensure that your
company recycles paper products, batteries, and printer cartridges.
Additionally, make sure the office’s old electronics (e.g., computers,
monitors, cell phones, TVs) are recycled. There are many different programs
including leasing programs, manufacturer and retailer take-back programs and
municipal programs your company can utilize to ensure the reuse and/or recycling
of your electronics. In the US your company can participate in the EPA’s </span><a href="http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/smm/wastewise/index.htm">WasteWise</a><span class="entry-content"> program which </span>helps
its participants meet goals to reduce and recycle municipal solid waste and
selected industrial wastes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNQwXRRlxRLra14N6b-vOrrP2H5XAHa-3-J-yTeb2K2H-c23PSwKOt-NKi5QCfE6CgB1uHWEbdC2W7tihqemS_R99rbdGGAnos1S4_rRI3brA6FCeeRMccy9HbmE2yls9X3FoAFJSNwu8/s1600/RFC-Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNQwXRRlxRLra14N6b-vOrrP2H5XAHa-3-J-yTeb2K2H-c23PSwKOt-NKi5QCfE6CgB1uHWEbdC2W7tihqemS_R99rbdGGAnos1S4_rRI3brA6FCeeRMccy9HbmE2yls9X3FoAFJSNwu8/s640/RFC-Logo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Go
paperless</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Go a step further than just recycling your paper;
avoid initially using it whenever possible. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Set 'double sided' as the default setting on your
printer.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Go electronic instead of using hard copies: phone and email,
use overheads and power point presentations, get e-subscriptions, and use web
resources.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Replace paper towels with hand dryers in the bathrooms.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Switch to cloth towels and napkins in kitchens.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Use reusable mugs and plates in the company kitchen.</span></li>
<li><a href="http://www.practicallygreen.com/actions/switch-to-a-reusable-coffee-filter" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Switch to a metal mesh reusable coffee
filter</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> in the company kitchen so you do not need disposable paper
ones.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Use non-toxic
green cleaning products in your work area or office</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Using <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.com/2011/07/great-acts-are-made-up-of-small-deeds.html">green products</a> for cleaning your
workplace can be better for the health of the planet, yourself, and your
employees. Green products are typically made with natural ingredients and can
reduce the amount of harmful toxins you inhale each day. Green products are
also often packaged in recycled or biodegradable materials and offer bulk
options to reduce waste. Research and read the labels of your green products,
looking for words such as <i>biodegradable</i>, <i>100% recycled</i>, <i>certified
organic</i>, and <i>green certified</i>, to chose the ones that are right for
you. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgABIY7VN2mbVDFE3W4f0xx8-jRGIeOqeFxY40MBC63Nt3QsKYHPcPtgw4PbRNP6uspO3Oy3WvQr3QJF1m-4GieI9g2QLRgOE-HRWRsL6kKdjsPs-XuwkmwSiK6OFFR60emT_520Z_jCs8/s1600/cleangreen.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgABIY7VN2mbVDFE3W4f0xx8-jRGIeOqeFxY40MBC63Nt3QsKYHPcPtgw4PbRNP6uspO3Oy3WvQr3QJF1m-4GieI9g2QLRgOE-HRWRsL6kKdjsPs-XuwkmwSiK6OFFR60emT_520Z_jCs8/s640/cleangreen.gif" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Choose
foods that are local, organic and sustainable for lunches, meetings and catered
events</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">Produce that is grown in
your area requires lower inputs to get to the store/farmers’ market/restaurant,
and by buying seasonal produce you’re more likely to get produce that’s local.</span><span lang="EN-US"> A good way to know if your food is
sustainably produced is to talk to the farmer! Buy farm-gate produce or
shop at farmers’ markets whenever it’s possible. Ask the farmer how they
grow their crops. The farmers that are passionate about sustainable practices
will enthusiastically share their knowledge. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYONfCWxxkelQ9jAPBt3Vo4aq-ai0uZHmQnm9Iu44pcNpCb6LWYSLiYArLN8x1Z3ZgpsHQ_XRswhHkv4zA4LHoP5B5NM2ONjfH6NkN2GBIU9Jx6jwL-KJuKeYo1uLzLbizeaASRgEVTWA/s1600/organic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYONfCWxxkelQ9jAPBt3Vo4aq-ai0uZHmQnm9Iu44pcNpCb6LWYSLiYArLN8x1Z3ZgpsHQ_XRswhHkv4zA4LHoP5B5NM2ONjfH6NkN2GBIU9Jx6jwL-KJuKeYo1uLzLbizeaASRgEVTWA/s200/organic.jpg" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><span lang="EN-US">(You can read more about sustainable
agriculture on our blog </span><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/09/what-is-sustainable-agriculture.html"><span lang="EN-US">here</span></a></i><i><span lang="EN-US">!)<o:p></o:p></span></i></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Choosing<span lang="EN-US">
food that is organic ensures that it is pesticide and GMO free and thus that
there are no negative impacts on the surrounding soil, water, air, or
organisms. Eating organic also may prevent a number of negative human health
problems linked to pesticide use.</span><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pack waste-free
lunches </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjMapkjwEZvo9IW9nXYNU8yDLpAXTVNvsZlMKSHQkc78xXg3J6pXNHaWnlONIsYXVC0XnrelMXDixWG3y6G7NMbU3K68PJ6RhJtLM7bhP_I5qFU8a36MUHAG4hrsP5brh8NfhWFigUKso/s1600/wastefreelunch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjMapkjwEZvo9IW9nXYNU8yDLpAXTVNvsZlMKSHQkc78xXg3J6pXNHaWnlONIsYXVC0XnrelMXDixWG3y6G7NMbU3K68PJ6RhJtLM7bhP_I5qFU8a36MUHAG4hrsP5brh8NfhWFigUKso/s200/wastefreelunch.jpg" width="163" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Through packing a waste-free lunch at home (and not
getting take-out) your energy emissions, meal costs, and the waste you produce
are all reduced. The average child is said to produce 67 pounds of trash at
lunch a year and you are creating the same if not more at work! <a href="http://www.practicallygreen.com/actions/switch-to-a-reusable-lunchbox-for-work">Switch to reusable</a> utensils,
containers, napkins, water bottles and lunch boxes to avoid trash generation.
When shopping for reusable lunch wares remember that some may actually contain
lead and/or PVC which are not safe to be in contact with food. Reusable
containers made of glass, stainless, and lead-free ceramic are the safest
options.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(Read specific
examples on how other companies have gone green on our <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2011/12/green-companies-from-ground-up.html">Green Companies from the Ground Up</a>
and <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2011/08/going-green-in-business.html">Going Green in Business</a> pages!)</span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
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</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiesopfBcQp9Xf08LVkqXH7RB79ZCVMx93OPPLeLV5MZ-pEFjGAP9pjLvUhIt4fa9hVsDUAdGz9JkKP-26QFgkYt-arX-MdDuPybqp5FTXoXKoEI62EdhHjiYIz_pnLi9rIsoKqRvpWTgs/s1600/These-green-business-ideas-can-be-perfect-for-you.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiesopfBcQp9Xf08LVkqXH7RB79ZCVMx93OPPLeLV5MZ-pEFjGAP9pjLvUhIt4fa9hVsDUAdGz9JkKP-26QFgkYt-arX-MdDuPybqp5FTXoXKoEI62EdhHjiYIz_pnLi9rIsoKqRvpWTgs/s640/These-green-business-ideas-can-be-perfect-for-you.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Sources: <a href="http://www.tumblr.com/tagged/green%20office">Green Office</a>, <a href="http://uncggreenoffice.wordpress.com/">Green Office Certification</a>, <a href="http://luvteaching2.edublogs.org/">Got Tech</a>, <a href="http://www.recycle4change.ca/contact/">Recycle for Change</a>, <a href="http://www.entrepreneursforachange.com/every-day-green-business-ideas-for-the-rest-of-us/these-green-business-ideas-can-be-perfect-for-you/">Entrepreneurs for Change</a>, <a href="http://taipa.in/content/national-telecom-policy-2011">Telecom</a>, <a href="http://interestingenergyfacts.blogspot.ca/2008/10/are-wind-farms-threat-to-birds.html">Interesting
Energy Facts Blog</a>, <a href="http://autowale.in/carpooling-for-work-commutes-drive-less-save-more/">Autowale.in</a>, <a href="http://www.pcmag.com/slideshow/story/296908/10-green-tech-gadgets/8">PC
Mag</a>, <a href="http://www.ic.gc.ca/eic/site/oca-bc.nsf/eng/ca02523.html">Industry Canada</a>, <a href="http://slackersaver.com/2012/06/trash-vs-recycle/">Slacker Saver</a>, <span lang="FR-CA"><a href="http://triblocal.com/arlington-heights/community/stories/2011/04/share-your-clean-green-tips/">Chicago Tribune Local</a>, </span><a href="http://www.bcliving.ca/health/federal-stamps-of-approval">BC Living</a>, <a href="http://www.gogreeninstages.com/waste-free-lunch-kit-compact-square.php">Go
Green in Stages</a></span></div>
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<span lang="FR-CA"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-72862610179713365712013-01-08T14:20:00.000-08:002013-01-08T14:20:46.906-08:00A Year In Review<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEH9fjvS_opM9r58buYiycAsH1nG2wcXQNu_j5FEnvR_eaQEHMhyPTdD4COQtAbJMTveoKObHXOZc5EqiMpLjiLTbnPT8F5YOM1ZGDtQflTGptnmdjlmD4llAIhrbLfBc8037Oq_e3cQ/s1600/earth_day_2012-11349683.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEH9fjvS_opM9r58buYiycAsH1nG2wcXQNu_j5FEnvR_eaQEHMhyPTdD4COQtAbJMTveoKObHXOZc5EqiMpLjiLTbnPT8F5YOM1ZGDtQflTGptnmdjlmD4llAIhrbLfBc8037Oq_e3cQ/s640/earth_day_2012-11349683.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This
past year saw many changes and newsworthy stories in regards to
environmentalism and the green movement. Sustainability was front and centre as
new environmental initiatives were announced, however, the green aspects of
2012 were most defined by the environmental stories that made the news. The <a href="http://www.transcanada.com/keystone.html">Keystone pipeline</a><span style="font-size: small;"> dominated
the airwaves in North America and throughout the globe, while environmentalism
was a large part of other events such as the </span><a href="http://www.london2012.com/">London Summer Olympics</a><span style="font-size: small;"> and the largest </span><a href="http://www.earthday.org/">Earth Day</a><span style="font-size: small;"> celebrations yet. The United
States saw their year culminate in their national and presidential elections
where the environment was a hot topic, and
Canada had its own environmental showdown as provinces pulled away from
the federal government to pursue their own options as Canada decided on its own
future. There are many noteworthy
stories and events that could make up our list, however, here are a few that
caught our attention:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www2.macleans.ca/2012/01/18/keystone-xl-a-timeline/"><b><span style="font-size: large;">January</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW76royMsbPwlJtmxNJd__u4c0qSwU4Rs88fews5lhUw1cDgMT9sLC1nmLdcUYq-6LzTzGE_x-GiPEQ63aoygzcyzz4yM8eYYlJs5Svv1zaeYUVg912kFGMjHIU2Q-u-i-nCdNzuLajrU/s1600/Keystone-Pipeline.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhW76royMsbPwlJtmxNJd__u4c0qSwU4Rs88fews5lhUw1cDgMT9sLC1nmLdcUYq-6LzTzGE_x-GiPEQ63aoygzcyzz4yM8eYYlJs5Svv1zaeYUVg912kFGMjHIU2Q-u-i-nCdNzuLajrU/s200/Keystone-Pipeline.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The
<a href="http://www.state.gov/">US State Department</a> announced that it would
not approve the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline between Canada and the
United States. <a href="http://www.transcanada.com/">TransCanada</a>, the
entity applying for the deal, was told that they can re-apply once they submit
a new route that ensures protection of vulnerable ecosystems. <a href="http://www.transcanada.com/">TransCanada</a> has begun to re-examine
their proposal and plans to re-apply by 2014.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://environmentaldefence.ca/blog/green-drummond"><b><span style="font-size: large;">February</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The
<a href="http://www.ontario.ca/welcome-ontario">Government of Ontario</a>
released the now infamous Drummond Report, a 668 report outlining
recommendations to reduce Ontario’s growing debt. Several key recommendations
involved environmental legislation, including the increase of environmental
protection stewardship, and a more accurate system to value environmental
protection projects. It also advocated for the creation of a national transit
strategy where all provinces and territories actively work together towards
reducing greenhouse gas emissions in vehicles.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Swedish
car manufacturer, <a href="http://www.volvo.com/">Volvo</a>, introduced the
first ever hands free driving technology. This was hailed as the first step in
true road train technology, where roads are able to function as trains for
individual travelling cars, removing the need for fossil fuels and lessening
the occurrence of accidents due to long distance travel.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNffQveZO3_1GGBs6ROQhTmRAmG0IA0Kl8KEZh-p349AOvGeC7FtRPNE1j_nc26pNTFAcQvfJ14j8A1hpaHijAj1Vw6ipuVsFcUOjZ8DvVBf0JmVmNIbLVjGnVEdlQDGjG2fduYMjdffo/s1600/green-earth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNffQveZO3_1GGBs6ROQhTmRAmG0IA0Kl8KEZh-p349AOvGeC7FtRPNE1j_nc26pNTFAcQvfJ14j8A1hpaHijAj1Vw6ipuVsFcUOjZ8DvVBf0JmVmNIbLVjGnVEdlQDGjG2fduYMjdffo/s640/green-earth.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.peer.eu/news-events/detail/?tx_list_pi1%5Buid%5D=222&tx_list_pi1%5Bmode%5D=2&cHash=ed9378bde8a89101f07d5a1bef674b0d"><b><span style="font-size: large;">March</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The
<a href="http://www.ufz.de/teeb-conference-2012/">TEEB Conference 2012</a> –
Mainstreaming the Economics of Nature: Challenges for Science and
Implementation conference happened in Leipzig, Germany. More than 250
scientists and economic experts from all over the world met to discuss the
importance of biodiversity and its economic value. The main focus of the
conference was on how to get international environmental agreements implemented
at the national level. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.examiner.com/article/year-2012-review-hard-work-ahead-as-environment-heats-up-for-epa"><b><span style="font-size: large;">April</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.earthday.org/">Earth Day</a>, held on April 22, was special
this year. The celebrations were used to mark the increases in awareness and
the pieces of legislation passed since the first one in 1970, including the
Clean Air Act. However, this party also occurred as a precarious time as
Congress debated whether the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the <a href="http://www.epa.gov/">Environmental Protection Agency</a> (EPA) should all
be dismantled.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh05YkJXQd-6HYOP2zWuARlGKdm4jluQ61ChrSbRBRfHfj2lph645NKZQhY-UBkTmPgZ1fOrzxBTd3H-Zb80OxkYRSKjFaHzqN0emxUgi1CsV3UFKn1GdK0OhdWnPT_YtZ9KGkH57Xt72U/s1600/earth-day-2012-logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh05YkJXQd-6HYOP2zWuARlGKdm4jluQ61ChrSbRBRfHfj2lph645NKZQhY-UBkTmPgZ1fOrzxBTd3H-Zb80OxkYRSKjFaHzqN0emxUgi1CsV3UFKn1GdK0OhdWnPT_YtZ9KGkH57Xt72U/s640/earth-day-2012-logo.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.waste-management-world.com/index/from-the-wires/wire-news-display/1801035127.html"><b><span style="font-size: large;">May</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.nike.com/ca/en_ca/?ref=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.ca%2Furl%3Fsa%3Dt%26rct%3Dj%26q%3D%26esrc%3Ds%26frm%3D1%26source%3Dweb%26cd%3D1%26ved%3D0CC8QFjAA%26url%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252Fwww.nike.com%252F%26ei%3DHn_TUI6DKM3ligLF6oH4Bg%26usg%3DAFQjCNFfu6fEgeWQlHU5XPqvVX1nIV4b6w">Nike
International</a> created a new way to choose factories to conduct business
with. The Source & Manufacturing
Sustainability Index is now used to measure labour and environmental
sustainability standards in choosing where they will have their goods manufactured.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Nike
also announced a partnership with Dutch company <a href="http://www.dyecoo.com/">DyeCoo
Textile Systems</a>, who have created the first commercially viable waterless
textile dyeing machines. They use recycled carbon dioxide instead of water,
thereby greatly reducing the amount of pollution placed into waterways.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.examiner.com/article/year-2012-review-hard-work-ahead-as-environment-heats-up-for-epa"><b><span style="font-size: large;">June</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdemCcVCw8bZ5gE_vI4Ophh7oYQUnzPFtlQf_z5HkGHqs35exPY2_VLAqSkBVn1BO-TsIkD9ZNugwbfvk6l1PgA8oDuzXNNogIGq-idPwhV0uQ3BitCpOlDUcVcqSLlNU7gqyPror1VSY/s1600/EPA.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdemCcVCw8bZ5gE_vI4Ophh7oYQUnzPFtlQf_z5HkGHqs35exPY2_VLAqSkBVn1BO-TsIkD9ZNugwbfvk6l1PgA8oDuzXNNogIGq-idPwhV0uQ3BitCpOlDUcVcqSLlNU7gqyPror1VSY/s200/EPA.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The
<a href="http://www.epa.gov/">EPA</a> had its mandate upheld by the <a href="http://www.uscourts.gov/FederalCourts/UnderstandingtheFederalCourts/CourtofAppeals.aspx">US
Court of Appeals</a> in the District of Columbia over how they regulate
greenhouse gas emissions. The judicial vote was unanimously in favour of the <a href="http://www.epa.gov/">EPA</a> regulating all emissions that if finds
harmful as per the Clean Air Act. This included vehicles and all stationary
sources, such as buildings.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.unep.org/newscentre/default.asp?ct=pr&scope=all"><b><span style="font-size: large;">July</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.un.org/en/">UN</a> Secretary Ban Ki-moon announced that three
of the <a href="http://www.un.org/millenniumgoals/">2015 Millennium Development
Goals</a> have been achieved three years ahead of schedule; those in regards to
poverty, slums, and water. The levels of
drinkable water have increased drastically due to environmental initiatives to
clean up required water sources. The portion of people with access to clean
water has now risen to 89%, up from 76% in 1990.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2012/nov/15/london-2012-olympics-greenest-ever"><b><span style="font-size: large;">August</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></b> </div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The
<a href="http://www.london2012.com/">2012 London Olympic Summer Games</a>
brought athletes, dignitaries, and supporters from all over the world. The Games
were hailed as the “greenest ever” due to sustainability efforts in place. The Olympic
Games required 35 million kilowatt hours of energy to run, the same amount of
electricity required to power a city of 150,000 for a year. Energy requirements
were able to be reduced by 20% and the Games achieved their goal of zero waste
to landfills and over 70% of waste being re-used, recycled, or composted.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAJRy-7d0zn8QAmnTdhc_FXS7u2H7YGz3KIR1RKGfOFniSZCJlItPQP06IN3J2cRoRktsXNr8o0YIpSe4rVgnq-GUHOHxDwlTyT0wG4r3sqym3jrite30-w5TGzCrJpA3QnVq_6qUMSBQ/s1600/Marketing20.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAJRy-7d0zn8QAmnTdhc_FXS7u2H7YGz3KIR1RKGfOFniSZCJlItPQP06IN3J2cRoRktsXNr8o0YIpSe4rVgnq-GUHOHxDwlTyT0wG4r3sqym3jrite30-w5TGzCrJpA3QnVq_6qUMSBQ/s640/Marketing20.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/theguardian/2012/dec/18/weekly-review-2012-weather-environment"><b><span style="font-size: large;">September</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Arctic
sea ice shrank to its lowest levels ever recorded. At the time of recording, it
was not even finished as it shrunk an additional 500,000 sq. km beyond this
point. Scientists have begun to push even more adamantly for climate control
conditions as there were no erroneous weather patterns or unusual conditions
that could explain the drastic shift other than unprecedented climate change.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiDUoCYaCdbQ-1fcS1ijiytCbsFL6XBLfBhQdJLQHZJo94Dsll0MiRPDD97-tLSr_1HMFOylkzjpExBgm34yHxpcTPzcG58gssWhprkYdPnkU_wae3BoA-FgWsNxNIb9M4riIyYpniGxk/s1600/Arctic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiDUoCYaCdbQ-1fcS1ijiytCbsFL6XBLfBhQdJLQHZJo94Dsll0MiRPDD97-tLSr_1HMFOylkzjpExBgm34yHxpcTPzcG58gssWhprkYdPnkU_wae3BoA-FgWsNxNIb9M4riIyYpniGxk/s640/Arctic.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.unep.org/newscentre/default.asp?ct=pr&scope=all"><b><span style="font-size: large;">October</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The
<a href="http://www.cbd.int/">United Nations Biodiversity Conference</a> and
its member states pledged to double the amount of resources available for
biodiversity protection by 2015. Among areas queued for special protection are
the Saragasso Sea, the Tonga archipelago, and certain coral sites off the Brazilian
coast. The conference also created new measures for how to gauge levels of
biodiversity protection. India, the country with the second highest population
and many areas in need of biodiversity protection, was targeted to lead the
Strategic Plan for Biodiversity for the next two years.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/observations/2012/11/07/what-does-obamas-win-mean-for-energy-and-environment/"><b><span style="font-size: large;">November</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The
<a href="http://www.usa.gov/">United States</a> Presidential election occurred with <a href="http://www.barackobama.com/">Barack Obama</a> winning a second term. His first term included executive
orders that increased fuel efficiency standards for vehicles and regulatory
initiatives to control air pollution from coal power plants. The second term
looks to be more of the same. Obama’s victory speech stated a goal to be “free
from foreign oil,” a long-standing desire of both political parties. To make
this desire closer to a reality, President Obama has outlined a plan that
includes increasing shale gas output and tax credits for alternative energy
projects. Other initiatives that have been discussed are a carbon tax and
ending subsidies corporations that extract, refine, and distribute fossil fuels;
however, these two may be difficult as the Republican controlled Congress has
spoken out against them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicWYSgjSMQFC9gSzWCL712VPmXGaX-tATafYP1JjBRZWLf8BPblUA8Isk0Z2Y0yrSEIE6DIewF73md709QVopB_jfTs7V2FP0jS1WjKIFT5onlmfojvVfrgkhf6-Cpbov3Poj7jFZnJL4/s1600/Obama.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="356" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicWYSgjSMQFC9gSzWCL712VPmXGaX-tATafYP1JjBRZWLf8BPblUA8Isk0Z2Y0yrSEIE6DIewF73md709QVopB_jfTs7V2FP0jS1WjKIFT5onlmfojvVfrgkhf6-Cpbov3Poj7jFZnJL4/s640/Obama.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://o.canada.com/2012/12/14/its-official-harper-government-withdraws-from-kyoto-climate-agreement/"><b><span style="font-size: large;">December</span></b></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiNy3Pt1IDjj2vam6zHz9OffpiiUwVSHMOiAlkbXlIVbeFqY_lJp-4C7MCT0h1R45r8ZpaL5vg6kjdRmGoxA6KUs8LI4QeQqmI1hQD6dOyyMYKU8hZUAdORLtjRHX-PqSVociR0plpydc/s1600/kyoto_op.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiNy3Pt1IDjj2vam6zHz9OffpiiUwVSHMOiAlkbXlIVbeFqY_lJp-4C7MCT0h1R45r8ZpaL5vg6kjdRmGoxA6KUs8LI4QeQqmI1hQD6dOyyMYKU8hZUAdORLtjRHX-PqSVociR0plpydc/s200/kyoto_op.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.canada.gc.ca/home.html">Canada</a> became the first nation to
formally pull out of the <a href="http://unfccc.int/kyoto_protocol/items/2830.php">Kyoto Protocol</a>. The <a href="http://unfccc.int/kyoto_protocol/items/2830.php">Kyoto Protocol</a> was
originally passed in 1997 and asked for developed nations to reduce their
carbon emissions by 5% lower than 1990 levels, which was to occur by 2012.
Canada’s withdrawal from the <a href="http://unfccc.int/kyoto_protocol/items/2830.php">Kyoto Protocol</a> occurred
as recent polls showed Canadians in favour of British Columbia’s new carbon tax
and with the majority stating that the Canadian government should be showing
leadership on environmental issues.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This
past year can be marked as one of transition; the majority of people are seeing
a world worth protecting and finally, governments are slowly coming to the same
realization. While some governments are more proactive than others, the shift
has been noticeable, from small municipalities right up to the <a href="http://www.un.org/en/">United Nations</a>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It
is important to note that not all of these stories were able drastic change or
new technologies that will change the world; they are about perceptions, how
people are changing the way they think. The swell of people from around the
world who are demanding global action for a better and greener future and
beginning are showing their influence and governments are beginning to realize
the economic value of environmentalism. We hope that you continue to join us in
2013 to see what the New Year brings for environmental action, green
technology, and global awareness!<a href="" name="_GoBack"></a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sources: <a href="http://www.unep.org/newscentre/default.asp?ct=pr&scope=all">UNEP</a>, </span><a href="http://www.examiner.com/article/year-2012-review-hard-work-ahead-as-environment-heats-up-for-epa" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Examiner</a>, <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/theguardian/2012/dec/18/weekly-review-2012-weather-environment" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Guardian.co.uk</a>, <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2012/nov/15/london-2012-olympics-greenest-ever" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Guardian.co.uk</a>, <a href="http://www.thegreencarwebsite.co.uk/blog/index.php/2012/12/18/how-green-was-2012-the-green-piece/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Green Car</a>, <a href="http://www.peer.eu/news-events/detail/?tx_list_pi1%5Buid%5D=222&tx_list_pi1%5Bmode%5D=2&cHash=ed9378bde8a89101f07d5a1bef674b0d" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Peer.eu</a>, <a href="http://environmentaldefence.ca/blog/green-drummond" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Environmental Defence</a>, <a href="http://o.canada.com/2012/12/14/its-official-harper-government-withdraws-from-kyoto-climate-agreement/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">O.Canada</a>, <a href="http://blogs.scientificamerican.com/observations/2012/11/07/what-does-obamas-win-mean-for-energy-and-environment/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Scientific American</a>, <a href="http://www2.macleans.ca/2012/01/18/keystone-xl-a-timeline/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Macleans</a>, <span style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.waste-management-world.com/index/from-the-wires/wire-news-display/1801035127.html" style="line-height: 200%;">Waste-management-world</a>, <a href="http://earthday2012.com/">Earth Day 2012</a>, <a href="http://allaroundarlington.com/2010/04/16/touch-the-earth-celebration-set-for-april-25th/">Touch The Earth</a>, <a href="http://oilinvestingnews.com/4848-analysts-expect-keystone-xl-pipeline-approval.html">Oil News</a>, <a href="http://www.thatfrugalgirl.com/2012/04/earth-day-2012-freebies/">Living Well</a>, <a href="http://www.businessreviewaustralia.com/marketing/web/london-goes-green-for-the-olympic-games">Business Review</a>, <a href="http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/green/news/2012/12/04/46775/kyoto-protocol-negotiations-continue-at-the-doha-climate-talks/">Climate Talks</a>, <a href="http://ec.europa.eu/environment/europeangreencapital/earth-hour-2013/index.html">Europa Environmental</a></span></span></span></div>
Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-88320114050926363692012-12-24T09:23:00.000-08:002012-12-24T09:24:12.671-08:00From all of us to you... Happy Holidays!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcYJfa7xNZFfgH_TZSYJfdKjvbvcGikUMPA4_J0uB0EgEqzIAJqzY-EwINiZ4dEE7jbxD7qgqv4B_WoyqBwOrZP7ABqsCFMn2ZjFhCL_a2xyO9t8y5uugib6x7cOKUkZPpUKZB8rgYU7o/s1600/HappyHolidays-FromEcoEndeavorsAndGreencyclopedia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcYJfa7xNZFfgH_TZSYJfdKjvbvcGikUMPA4_J0uB0EgEqzIAJqzY-EwINiZ4dEE7jbxD7qgqv4B_WoyqBwOrZP7ABqsCFMn2ZjFhCL_a2xyO9t8y5uugib6x7cOKUkZPpUKZB8rgYU7o/s640/HappyHolidays-FromEcoEndeavorsAndGreencyclopedia.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-75934746541118132222012-12-19T16:22:00.000-08:002012-12-19T16:27:26.208-08:00Season's Greenings!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0jJ6BTMVDzKU9z94k6QelrxeZagiwhofx0lcSHL64hiZCTwnuRza2dKCo6GWyTZhfqexRaH2y9ZZPLfpNq81eVmpImfNH2YTUlJqF48N57-M5RwfRbZ_KX00lyOWkQeMkjmO3b_6TWBc/s1600/whistler-village-winter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0jJ6BTMVDzKU9z94k6QelrxeZagiwhofx0lcSHL64hiZCTwnuRza2dKCo6GWyTZhfqexRaH2y9ZZPLfpNq81eVmpImfNH2YTUlJqF48N57-M5RwfRbZ_KX00lyOWkQeMkjmO3b_6TWBc/s640/whistler-village-winter.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUHVxbjezQU7pF1_io-4VVuIF7-XWNFVbm95ZIikEv2Mrl0dxWL4edGdrKWkQbNrse8xE2B4jIlLDcxNlJN8RmT_nrRdyFSbhdnKsO2zkXF3faFPPqhm7LCbTnT6qj40vJKtm3D_H9_c/s1600/budget-holiday-party-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghUHVxbjezQU7pF1_io-4VVuIF7-XWNFVbm95ZIikEv2Mrl0dxWL4edGdrKWkQbNrse8xE2B4jIlLDcxNlJN8RmT_nrRdyFSbhdnKsO2zkXF3faFPPqhm7LCbTnT6qj40vJKtm3D_H9_c/s200/budget-holiday-party-1.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">All
over the world, December and January are traditionally times of celebration and
renewal. From winter solstice festivals, to Hanukkah and Christmas, to Diwali
and Kwanzaa, to New Year’s Eve, people come together to share holiday cheer
this time of year. However you celebrate, most of these traditions share the
common themes of family, togetherness, and generosity.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSp5lgDEB5zie9ks7nNR06YJvOxjCZtQt1FzEYpYQWljszYQkJxcqspSniYfjc3OyftYk2eK5QzmDT9b4LjDv0_x0dKZnOOOyGKfKYbvbx7DZXldRNabZOt-PvZKCsknuvjCjlOsMOhM8/s1600/Christmas-Champagne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="124" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSp5lgDEB5zie9ks7nNR06YJvOxjCZtQt1FzEYpYQWljszYQkJxcqspSniYfjc3OyftYk2eK5QzmDT9b4LjDv0_x0dKZnOOOyGKfKYbvbx7DZXldRNabZOt-PvZKCsknuvjCjlOsMOhM8/s200/Christmas-Champagne.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In recent years people have tended to go to excess throughout the holidays, from eating and drinking to elaborate decorations and gifts. North Americans produce 25-30% more garbage than usual this time of year, and much of that excess waste can be avoided without taking away from the enjoyment of the season. Whatever your holiday traditions are, winter can also be a great time to think about the planet and how you can make a little less waste and a little more merriment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Here are some tips for greening your holiday season:</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Lighting</span><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip-5YKrpVf7B1tcVXoDuHmCjGOlafenooH0o1Odw76W_oDjN2WR4ZqhwRxGO8vDWYjhDYY9MbjUaYjhByj8scCel4_Q9TsDKuF2hBkxe_Ehqr8okzAqnibSwBCeJuflo31PWeO95zrfu4/s1600/cite4_holiday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip-5YKrpVf7B1tcVXoDuHmCjGOlafenooH0o1Odw76W_oDjN2WR4ZqhwRxGO8vDWYjhDYY9MbjUaYjhByj8scCel4_Q9TsDKuF2hBkxe_Ehqr8okzAqnibSwBCeJuflo31PWeO95zrfu4/s200/cite4_holiday.jpg" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If
you’re buying new lights this year, invest in LEDs. They use about 90% less
energy than incandescent strings, and they last for something close to forever.
Also use a power bar that you can easily turn on and off, and a timer so that
your outdoor lights will turn off in the morning. Old incandescent strings can
be recycled, and if you’re concerned with power consumption, make sure to
recycle your old strings when you buy new LEDs. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Trees</span><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8WzgwdQM2tDZKRR60bpzM_F0KXeyeTjGJ93Z33E4Z9Rh5lU8Bvc-pYEZtMuwCug8GplFGKIcLyEwbURc9YR8bxDuv8yJqanN2W186b6TEZzRCctppIBJqwkQBfs5yi8uU2K0QxwGav_A/s1600/cite6_holiday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8WzgwdQM2tDZKRR60bpzM_F0KXeyeTjGJ93Z33E4Z9Rh5lU8Bvc-pYEZtMuwCug8GplFGKIcLyEwbURc9YR8bxDuv8yJqanN2W186b6TEZzRCctppIBJqwkQBfs5yi8uU2K0QxwGav_A/s200/cite6_holiday.jpg" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Ah,
the tree. A centerpiece of the holiday season for many families, the tree
debate has been going on since the invention of the artificial tree. Sometimes,
though, the traditional way is still the best for the environment.<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6628117816664821862" name="_GoBack"></a><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Real or fake?</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If
you don’t already own an artificial Christmas tree, it’s best not to invest in
one. Artificial trees are made with PVC (polyvinyl chloride) which is neither
biodegradable nor recyclable, and will one day end up in a landfill
indefinitely. Real trees grow back, create oxygen, are 100% biodegradable. Just
be conscious of where you’re getting it from, and if you can, buy a potted tree
that can be replanted. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Recycling your tree</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Most
municipalities offer Christmas tree recycling, either by curbside pickup or
drop-off at locations near your home. Check with your city as to the dates and
methods of recycling. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsTYjjlKSz7U63RDN1atKZZjk8JdaEMZ92nMuoKxY6bvG-N-bZLXItK6z1GrWb55cCeSqxFq366up9uV9OHkGU9L25Cs7wM1TxUHfpHSZOv4u-kdbNN-i3aDao2ZDo8F0j0jvIDz74Omo/s1600/christmas_tree_city_hd_widescreen_wallpapers_1920x1200.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsTYjjlKSz7U63RDN1atKZZjk8JdaEMZ92nMuoKxY6bvG-N-bZLXItK6z1GrWb55cCeSqxFq366up9uV9OHkGU9L25Cs7wM1TxUHfpHSZOv4u-kdbNN-i3aDao2ZDo8F0j0jvIDz74Omo/s640/christmas_tree_city_hd_widescreen_wallpapers_1920x1200.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Decorations</span><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxHhrY8MP1jZiBwpyYKee2Qpq4lz5krPsRGcV8QlADCHyMGnwzTfccGC5dZF2IUJyG_yKyEHpQ2K_MrF3nzlV43ei3zgKVK5PCd09DNKCTEohbmT6QQNH8h5YFx4JamHNt_PU333odZo/s1600/cite10_holiday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKxHhrY8MP1jZiBwpyYKee2Qpq4lz5krPsRGcV8QlADCHyMGnwzTfccGC5dZF2IUJyG_yKyEHpQ2K_MrF3nzlV43ei3zgKVK5PCd09DNKCTEohbmT6QQNH8h5YFx4JamHNt_PU333odZo/s200/cite10_holiday.jpg" width="152" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Natural decorations</span></b> </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Items like sprigs
of real holly and pine branches can make beautiful decorations for mantles and
doorways, and can be shaped into wreaths.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Antique or vintage
ornaments</span></span></b><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">Older ornaments and other second- or third-hand holiday decorations can be cheaper, more
unique, and more sustainable than new ones. Fortunately, most folks save
ornaments and reuse them for years. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI-SpAYJY0f_3CrhP-ICumxlx9EF3pc14Zc3Se_y0-SySnCHm7_371HCieME-6DryBmnjlaFXCaZfXj5LUdbQ0Ftq_Yst_cvHPos_9YP5RhP7mFOn_Rue5twy6QBaJjsCuZlCawLX5I30/s1600/il_fullxfull.389941620_9y6e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI-SpAYJY0f_3CrhP-ICumxlx9EF3pc14Zc3Se_y0-SySnCHm7_371HCieME-6DryBmnjlaFXCaZfXj5LUdbQ0Ftq_Yst_cvHPos_9YP5RhP7mFOn_Rue5twy6QBaJjsCuZlCawLX5I30/s200/il_fullxfull.389941620_9y6e.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Homemade</span></span></b><span lang="EN-US"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">Making your own decorations can be fun and easy, and a great way to save money and reduce waste! They can be made from a variety of items such as old wrapping paper, popcorn,
greeting cards, newspapers, and other colorful household items, and they can give your
home a unique look over the holidays.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Shopping & Gifts</span><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQwtpXDfUi9VaA8Y5C_IuXIphR3s7MyROcFpqkdKfFKxRjihfJbnOyjq4DZeyfTicCL-dQwlfFOQOlu_hvY5WjuTabjSs4kN0FMotImZjqm-dfUeRD8GCu_upqI0wMULadtAuytKAbjg/s1600/wrapped_present_box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQwtpXDfUi9VaA8Y5C_IuXIphR3s7MyROcFpqkdKfFKxRjihfJbnOyjq4DZeyfTicCL-dQwlfFOQOlu_hvY5WjuTabjSs4kN0FMotImZjqm-dfUeRD8GCu_upqI0wMULadtAuytKAbjg/s200/wrapped_present_box.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In
Canada, the annual waste produced just from shopping bags and gift wrap is
equal to about 545,000 tonnes annually. Bring a shopping bag or three with you,
and think twice before accepting all the extras, like boxes and tissue paper. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC2HFR5kqu_aY3ZyZNzHL17YYtlGrtLliFbRzQSnqTLmzbUua6b7EOfcsEi1BK-XqpFvyv3SsQV5bdIlwsLZp3zNx4KhI0ICV-n0Mj2m17iwF68J-qnJKOd7hrS1PLqkwHsQu83fBJS00/s1600/xmasfood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; display: inline !important; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="147" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC2HFR5kqu_aY3ZyZNzHL17YYtlGrtLliFbRzQSnqTLmzbUua6b7EOfcsEi1BK-XqpFvyv3SsQV5bdIlwsLZp3zNx4KhI0ICV-n0Mj2m17iwF68J-qnJKOd7hrS1PLqkwHsQu83fBJS00/s200/xmasfood.jpg" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Steer
clear of disposable and gag gifts. For those small gifts for acquaintances and
relatively unknown relatives, try making a gift, baking a gift, or bringing
something consumable and recyclable like a bottle of wine.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Think
about giving experiences, rather than stuff. Lessons or classes, or a
membership to a gym or yoga studio, or even a subscription to an online
magazine will usually be appreciated more than another nick-nack. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Of course,
for those tangible gifts that you want to wrap, be conscious of how and where
the items are made. Try to stick to locally made, sustainable gifts that are
recycled, biodegradable, etc. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieEdjwiBY4mvHPDLbqTbe0qIrfuAi8Qx4t1fNPX6v0fMG2lv003-JmdUI9YIUTM4Sx8h7Qto31IE2fVKzUPMwstBZA47zIp9VUzD0waiaKhnTtNiIRC86WlRTo9Jv6Ld02JOf437IFJYo/s1600/cite12_holiday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieEdjwiBY4mvHPDLbqTbe0qIrfuAi8Qx4t1fNPX6v0fMG2lv003-JmdUI9YIUTM4Sx8h7Qto31IE2fVKzUPMwstBZA47zIp9VUzD0waiaKhnTtNiIRC86WlRTo9Jv6Ld02JOf437IFJYo/s640/cite12_holiday.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For
green gift ideas, check look online. A couple of good places to start are:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">Treehugger’s
gift guide - </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.treehugger.com/giftguide/">http://www.treehugger.com/giftguide/</a></span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">David
Suzuki’s Green Gifting- </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://davidsuzuki.org/what-you-can-do/green-gifting/">http://davidsuzuki.org/what-you-can-do/green-gifting/</a></span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Wrapping</span><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgICw_rJ-tjzDoNI8R2TmDhp4E5WzH74Lx2rsqnmq8pdjH2ktM17ghhnyeI2guTB9O4pwkuVd19KEq7Cqj4Aer5jEaCdOQDj9ghi7uv0WWUJyK5Z8AEocJtvp3Q1-h1PhoxXwdMluYEzj0/s1600/cite3_holiday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgICw_rJ-tjzDoNI8R2TmDhp4E5WzH74Lx2rsqnmq8pdjH2ktM17ghhnyeI2guTB9O4pwkuVd19KEq7Cqj4Aer5jEaCdOQDj9ghi7uv0WWUJyK5Z8AEocJtvp3Q1-h1PhoxXwdMluYEzj0/s200/cite3_holiday.jpg" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For
those tangible presents that need to be wrapped, get creative! Try:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Reusable
items like pieces of cloth or the newspaper funny pages;</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Wrapping
box tops and bottoms separately, so you can reuse them next year; and</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Making
gift tags from old Christmas cards or scraps of wrapping paper.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></span><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Getting Around</span><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFKzgp96jQeDUAe6AeNfmlx3S1lljQkMTsrSvUSWM8_qcE9PndxdTb1w8u1qHL7vs9emB5GKkb048DTnvOtuY3nLlQUOCXOmevZXB4mcgj2F1EP9cisVcwBVmIQ4TIMLVODQ1b9o45sM8/s1600/cite14_holiday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFKzgp96jQeDUAe6AeNfmlx3S1lljQkMTsrSvUSWM8_qcE9PndxdTb1w8u1qHL7vs9emB5GKkb048DTnvOtuY3nLlQUOCXOmevZXB4mcgj2F1EP9cisVcwBVmIQ4TIMLVODQ1b9o45sM8/s200/cite14_holiday.jpg" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Between
shopping, family visits, and holiday parties, you’re probably all over the
place this season. Try to think about your footprint as you go, and think about
making actual footprints by walking, biking, taking transit or carpooling as
much as you can.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To
help reduce waste (and save you time!) do as many errands as you can in one
trip, so you’re not driving back and forth across town. This will save on gas
and help the environment as well as your wallet.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Heating & Cooking</span><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDDBPod8zVk9KuD4CueTS59MLOEVEwaMWovA2Atvql0wX6Qd2JWUoA6FhXGmvH6o0-_7NeBi9A_rG2458KAm94hGXOYRX_iWB7ZBu91Pxiw5fPyOFi4ref9dLOMFIP0aIrD-Ua4hCY1M/s1600/cite17_holiday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDDBPod8zVk9KuD4CueTS59MLOEVEwaMWovA2Atvql0wX6Qd2JWUoA6FhXGmvH6o0-_7NeBi9A_rG2458KAm94hGXOYRX_iWB7ZBu91Pxiw5fPyOFi4ref9dLOMFIP0aIrD-Ua4hCY1M/s200/cite17_holiday.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Canadian
energy consumption is extremely high per capita, higher even than the United
States, but only 18.1% of our electricity comes from fossil fuel sources. It is
possible that this cheap, relatively clean source of power has led us to be
more wasteful of energy than we would otherwise be. Being aware of your energy
use over the holidays is a great start to reducing your overall consumption for
the year. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It’s
true what they say: the more, the merrier! The more people you have in one
place, the warmer you’ll be. Also, at this time of year, everyone will likely
be dressed in warm attire, so there’s no need to crank up the heat.
Furthermore, all that cooking can’t help but heat the place up a little as well.
And don’t forget your Christmas sweater! Those are sure to keep you cozy this
time of year.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To
save additional energy, try not to leave the oven door open unless you’re
actually putting something in or taking something out. The same goes for your
home doors as well, and remember to turn everything off when all is said and
done!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkY5_yy1XX8lr3snOTmX8m6hPhMyCTr2KLIFLGqEwlyfbJUpBg27HhNk_MnLvki21iV0c7vUqPnm9UwD7Tb3My6pFQKjrVxHMM2D3Y9deJwYn-QsyBZvH1lx5XYJnZWO-YuZd3r6jIb4/s1600/cooking+class+will-23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkY5_yy1XX8lr3snOTmX8m6hPhMyCTr2KLIFLGqEwlyfbJUpBg27HhNk_MnLvki21iV0c7vUqPnm9UwD7Tb3My6pFQKjrVxHMM2D3Y9deJwYn-QsyBZvH1lx5XYJnZWO-YuZd3r6jIb4/s640/cooking+class+will-23.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Food</span><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></span></b> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsuWd7avRuJjPIU5Unu2VSyUE8LgLUHAYBNf7Mxelp2DltrEQU7K5gJfKYyPgBcoRwemcAEyj6h51JqEzoFUuVOyTeXA6-CZAvSL5uvt2aCyYedZH1wspJdTmfBJhLZnrikFiv7b52l8g/s1600/cite19_holiday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsuWd7avRuJjPIU5Unu2VSyUE8LgLUHAYBNf7Mxelp2DltrEQU7K5gJfKYyPgBcoRwemcAEyj6h51JqEzoFUuVOyTeXA6-CZAvSL5uvt2aCyYedZH1wspJdTmfBJhLZnrikFiv7b52l8g/s200/cite19_holiday.jpg" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Baked,
fried, boiled, or broiled, food is a central component to any holiday
gathering. Here are a few tips to help you help the environment, and often your
budget, too.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">To
keep your holiday low-impact, buy local food when you can. Local farmers’
markets often have great winter vegetables at this time of year. To find a
local Canadian farmers’ market, check out </span><a href="http://www.farmersmarketscanada.ca/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Farmer’s Markets Canada</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfvHy8gZe1XdqB5izTDF7j07iiWJOZHpc9Cl8MQooyoH2y2t6zy12NL703FoIXRJNqVPlSJSxSNwnhG2rrfJ1K4KdaX9_g97Q8D-xXUL5asNo1LJkhYV4Th2TDkjQwFqDz06fR9Su-fvo/s1600/looking+down+on+table.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfvHy8gZe1XdqB5izTDF7j07iiWJOZHpc9Cl8MQooyoH2y2t6zy12NL703FoIXRJNqVPlSJSxSNwnhG2rrfJ1K4KdaX9_g97Q8D-xXUL5asNo1LJkhYV4Th2TDkjQwFqDz06fR9Su-fvo/s200/looking+down+on+table.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Bring
your own grocery bags. They’re both bigger and stronger than disposable plastic
bags, and you can use them again and again.</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Buy
food with minimal packaging, and skip the small plastic bags for fruits and
veggies.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Try
to buy in bulk, especially for non-perishables. This may seem counterintuitive,
but will avoid the excess waste generated by individually packaged items.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Use
real cutlery, plates, and napkins. The disposable kind make cleanup easy, but
they also generate a mountain of garbage. Real wine glasses and dinnerware also
add a touch of class to any gathering.</span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Whatever
your plans are for travelling gifting, eating, and general merry-making are
this holiday season, you can still have an amazing time while taking care of
your environment!</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjZUv9WbDkpCdIqp45aWCyV7Rr6tZJOK20U9PogM9iLUdMQ00Xxfbw0hb2KrKFDo58dRs46s16wpC9gdYYULVMlY7oborZpN47kgD8iMfCDG0Je5-wi5sb4_ksT5i_Dw8B5TJnyDv97gA/s1600/Green+Earth+Ecology+wAl+tangledwing.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjZUv9WbDkpCdIqp45aWCyV7Rr6tZJOK20U9PogM9iLUdMQ00Xxfbw0hb2KrKFDo58dRs46s16wpC9gdYYULVMlY7oborZpN47kgD8iMfCDG0Je5-wi5sb4_ksT5i_Dw8B5TJnyDv97gA/s640/Green+Earth+Ecology+wAl+tangledwing.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span lang="EN-US">Sources: <a href="http://msuapx.com/almost-winter-break/">MSUAPX</a>, </span><a href="http://planetgreen.discovery.com/tv/go-for-the-green/green-brain-holiday-trash.html%C2%A0">Planet Green</a>, <a href="http://lawprofessors.typepad.com/environmental_law/2012/01/some-post-holiday-thoughts-on-packaging-waste.html">Environmental Law</a>, <a href="http://www.shopclues.com/decorative-lights-ganpati-christmas-diwali-10meters-led-lights.html">Shop Clues</a>, <a href="http://rcbc.bc.ca/files/u6/RCBCHoliday_ChristmasLights_CRD.pdf">LED BC</a>, <a href="http://www.davidhuntergardencenters.com/products/seasonal/christmas/">Garden Centres</a>, <a href="http://earth911.com/news/2011/12/01/buying-eco-friendly-real-vs-artificial-christmas-trees/">Earth911</a>, <a href="http://www.bcliving.ca/home/where-to-recycle-that-christmas-tree-in-metro-vancouver">BC Living</a>, <a href="http://www.arkive.org/common-holly/ilex-aquifolium/image-A19117.html">Arkive</a>, <a href="http://besthomedecorators.com/get-ready-for-christmas-with-homemade-christmas-decoration-ideas/dvd-ppt-slideshow.com*blog*wp-content*uploads*2011*12*christmas-decorations-7.jpg/">Best Home Decorators</a>, <a href="http://www.rdn.bc.ca/cms.asp?wpID=177">RDN</a>, <a href="http://earth911.com/news/2012/12/04/handmade-mason-jar-holiday-gifts/">Earth911</a>, <a href="http://davidsuzuki.org/what-you-can-do/green-gifting/">David Suzuki</a>, <a href="http://mylifeasafashionaddict.wordpress.com/2010/03/03/ride-in-style-hermes-horse-drawn-carriage/">Carriage</a>, <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2011/04/15/f-earth-day-green-report-card.html">CBC</a>, <a href="http://www.postconsumers.com/education/holiday-energy-tips/">Post Consumers</a>, <a href="http://www.ctsweep.com/blog/top-sweep-stories/what-is-that-smell-coming-from-my-fireplace/">CTSweep</a>, <a href="http://www.consumerenergycenter.org/tips/holiday.html">Energy Centre</a>, <a href="http://www.tumblr.com/tagged/holiday%20food">Holiday Food</a>, <a href="http://www.grit.com/Vegetables/Winter-Farmers-Market-Offers-Fresh-Local-Food-All-Year.aspx">Grit</a>, <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/features/greenholidays/">CDC</a>, <a href="http://www.resortquestwhistler.com/information/2012/10/25/winter-season-in-whistler-village/">Whister</a>, <a href="http://www.niagaraparks.com/events/new-years-eve.html">Niagra Parks</a>, <a href="http://www.workplacelive.com/blog/39/weathering-the-storm-with-cloud-computing">Work Place Live</a>, <a href="http://www.freegreatpicture.com/food-culture/christmas-food-20391">Food</a>, <a href="http://wallpapers-place.com/christmas/christmas-tree-city-hd-wallpaper/">Christmas City</a>, <a href="http://latavolamarche.blogspot.ca/2009/09/gourmet-holiday-autumn-in-italy.html">Italy</a>, <a href="http://www.designmegillah.com/2012_11_05_archive.html">Design Meg</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/lifestyle/travel/article/diwali-the-festival-of-lights/">Festival of Lights</a>, <a href="http://wilkinsonquints.blogspot.ca/2012/07/christmas-in-july-part-1.html">Wilkinson</a>, <a href="http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/family/throw-a-holiday-party-on-a-budget.htm">TLC</a>, <a href="http://mezzacorona.tumblr.com/post/21394240132/saving-the-earth-well-toast-to-that">Saving the Earth</a></span></div>
<br /></div>
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Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-2081061273768248342012-12-10T13:13:00.001-08:002012-12-11T11:12:32.834-08:00How to Go Green at School<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6HxgVczjEGK9IkvhEk37D4FdmMr8sV6Tu0GmkYBWfLXtorz6EWP8r6SJJ2fQzM0CYeSHiynKU3To9SWa9oyLH7BVrosEO54Opnm9-vNUVXF_IrnH-San793AtVg94VgW2ZmQbOBWuDhw/s1600/EcoHasLandedGreenSchool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6HxgVczjEGK9IkvhEk37D4FdmMr8sV6Tu0GmkYBWfLXtorz6EWP8r6SJJ2fQzM0CYeSHiynKU3To9SWa9oyLH7BVrosEO54Opnm9-vNUVXF_IrnH-San793AtVg94VgW2ZmQbOBWuDhw/s320/EcoHasLandedGreenSchool.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Steps for going green are adaptable and can be applied
anywhere you can fit them. You can translate what you already know about </span><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/11/how-to-go-green-at-home.html" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">going green at home</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> and use it to
go green at school! Simple actions such as:</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">turning off lights
and electronics when they are not in use;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">buying energy efficient light bulbs and electronic
systems;</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">using environmentally friendly cleaning products; and</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">turning down the heat are all important actions that can
be done both at home and school. </span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7asIfNHtzT6tBwfveL-1q4uBb0yMjegCXxLLkO80e-klsmEesmYD5XYxwVVYM4SVg_1cnKAcCtnLp6tNJmmViMjB6HINddq-2DyfRvVtZ3klq1IeiH5md2_sW3omsZD0fJ_3Sw2CJmsk/s1600/kidz-go-green-Corbis-42-22571440.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7asIfNHtzT6tBwfveL-1q4uBb0yMjegCXxLLkO80e-klsmEesmYD5XYxwVVYM4SVg_1cnKAcCtnLp6tNJmmViMjB6HINddq-2DyfRvVtZ3klq1IeiH5md2_sW3omsZD0fJ_3Sw2CJmsk/s320/kidz-go-green-Corbis-42-22571440.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">These smalls steps can have significant impacts, and on
such a large scale as the school system they can be highly influential. There
are more than 1 million computers being used in Canadian schools, and the
average desktop computer is estimated to consume 420 kilowatts of power each
year; the energy savings that result from turning them off can quickly add up!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In addition to our steps for going green at home, you can
also apply any or all of these to your school:</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">For Students/
Parents</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Bus, carpool, or
walk</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX5wYWAEmD9WgFbZ76Pk9HsWYe7GGc1MpaWlSjnKoxrF4yfkFz1pEKDhV-AsIicD1dUA6K5yO8mScVDG_FeP1p0PpSgLSE4dZ0gqblVjoWXo82lGSR862EjYAzcTum-jMvyKXemu80Lgo/s1600/schoolbus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX5wYWAEmD9WgFbZ76Pk9HsWYe7GGc1MpaWlSjnKoxrF4yfkFz1pEKDhV-AsIicD1dUA6K5yO8mScVDG_FeP1p0PpSgLSE4dZ0gqblVjoWXo82lGSR862EjYAzcTum-jMvyKXemu80Lgo/s320/schoolbus.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As mentioned in our previous blog post on going <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/09/back-to-school-green-way.html">Back to School - The Green Way</a>,
try to <span lang="EN-US">do your best to reduce the
amount you drive your individual kids to and from school to reduce your driving
emissions. One popular way is to enroll your children in a school bus program.
School buses reduce a great amount of emissions, especially if they're newer and
up to date with the current emission-reducing standards. </span>You
can also choose to organize or join a carpool program and alternate with
neighbours to drive a group of children at one time. <span lang="EN-US">If you live nearby, get your children to ride their
bike or walk to school! A co-op walk team can help keep your kids safe by
having groups walk together and alternating parent escorts if needed. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Re-use school supplies or buy recycled or
renewable ones</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Take
time to look at the supplies you already have and see what can be re-used. You
do not always need to buy new pens and pencils when you still have some that
are usable. You can easily re-use old binders by taking the contents out, and
if only a few pages of an old notebook have been written on you can just
discard them and re-use it. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">If the
purchase of new supplies is necessary, many major retailers carry recycled and
renewable school supplies such as biodegradable pencils, as well as recycled
notebooks, paper, and binders. </span><a href="http://www.papermategreen.net/ca-en/index.html"><span lang="EN-US">Paper Mate</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> is offering biodegradable pencils
that are offered at many major retailers, such as </span><a href="http://www.staples.ca/"><span lang="EN-US">Staples</span></a><span lang="EN-US">. There is also </span><a href="http://www.ecojot.com/"><span lang="EN-US">Ecojot</span></a><span lang="EN-US">, which offer notebooks, journals, sketchbooks,
and more made entirely from post-consumer waste. </span><span lang="EN-US">For more eco-friendly school supply brands check
out what Practically Green has to offer </span><a href="http://www.practicallygreen.com/actions/use-eco-friendly-school-supplies"><span lang="EN-US">here</span></a><span lang="EN-US">.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeKoD88nR5Psz7JggkkLVfV7_cCn02wvB8b5l4-FK2RM5yRWu-6K80wPkrVXemRsKJEqFLEt1-2qPRtPdM7w9J1c4kBdHVJrxeOXj8Ep3BR4N30H5-9pWK3cxOmmAl42yeA91emHShxg/s1600/greenpens.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeKoD88nR5Psz7JggkkLVfV7_cCn02wvB8b5l4-FK2RM5yRWu-6K80wPkrVXemRsKJEqFLEt1-2qPRtPdM7w9J1c4kBdHVJrxeOXj8Ep3BR4N30H5-9pWK3cxOmmAl42yeA91emHShxg/s640/greenpens.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">When
looking for a new backpack, look for both an environmentally as well as child
friendly backpack; one that’s made from recycled material and is padded to
prevent back pain. You can check out </span><a href="http://www.theultimategreenstore.com/s-224-bags-backpacks.aspx"><span lang="EN-US">The
Ultimate Green Store</span></a><span lang="EN-US">
or </span><a href="http://www.ecocentricbags.com/eco-friendly-backpacks.html"><span lang="EN-US">Ecocentric
Bags</span></a><span lang="EN-US"> to find some
of the cool green backpacks being offered. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Making smart, economical
decisions about school supplies can go a long way in saving your money and
reducing production and waste emissions that result from purchasing new and
non- recycled supplies.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Pack a waste free
lunch</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The average child is said to produce 67 pounds of trash
at lunch per year! Through packing a waste-free lunch at home, energy
emissions, meal costs, and the waste produced are all reduced. Pack lunches for
your child using reusable utensils, containers, napkins, sandwich bags, water
bottles and lunch boxes to avoid trash generation. Watch this short video by the
Recycling Council of Ontario to learn how to shop for a waste free lunch </span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></o:p></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/VnWSyUaUcTg?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Reuse wrapping
paper, paper bags, or newspaper for book covers</span></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxEeYazVVk3sbFsUQ3d9zYhiZ3jL_jw2dvbJ6hIsoCJSSp-d1T5hUbMyGwa66JIZjOSvLprrwYCeqwkdNBXIepqxv-cN1O2Ug176qAiB-kGiP0O4WM87zxpi2oG9hg8D4P4t1fvsWXmto/s1600/textbookcover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxEeYazVVk3sbFsUQ3d9zYhiZ3jL_jw2dvbJ6hIsoCJSSp-d1T5hUbMyGwa66JIZjOSvLprrwYCeqwkdNBXIepqxv-cN1O2Ug176qAiB-kGiP0O4WM87zxpi2oG9hg8D4P4t1fvsWXmto/s200/textbookcover.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Many schools require kids to cover their books and it is
a good idea to do it to prevent the wear and tear of them. Instead of buying a
manufactured cover, or using new paper to cover them, you can reuse paper bags,
newspapers, old wrapping paper, or even outdated maps. Using old paper products
will save trees and water, as well as reduce air and water pollution. If you
need some help making one, <a href="http://craftingagreenworld.com/2010/05/23/tutorial-brown-paper-bag-book-cover/">Crafting a Green World</a> has a good
tutorial on how to fashion your book covers from paper bags (it can also be
applied for newspapers, wrapping paper, and maps too).</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Educators/
Administrators</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Grow a school garden</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkazjbNOWujtVyoR6Y4fcfVLiNs8olaRaQBisGdVDDB_ImK85dNtOJ_pp8C1gePkzFYtEOYs8a3gcxqzgEturf7n0JoBlVZ8PP-1IRlChp-8BqgeUn0Xmu7RWuAqRyZp4mhZJlUKHSG5Q/s1600/schoolgarden.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkazjbNOWujtVyoR6Y4fcfVLiNs8olaRaQBisGdVDDB_ImK85dNtOJ_pp8C1gePkzFYtEOYs8a3gcxqzgEturf7n0JoBlVZ8PP-1IRlChp-8BqgeUn0Xmu7RWuAqRyZp4mhZJlUKHSG5Q/s320/schoolgarden.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">By building a school garden you can create opportunities
to teach students about ecology, <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/09/what-is-sustainable-agriculture.html">sustainable agriculture</a>, and
nutrition. Growing food and native plants also helps kids connect with the
source of their food, and problems such as grocery transport emissions, and
food waste issues. Plant herbs, fruits, and vegetables that are easy to grow,
pick, and cook. You can use them in students’ lunches, cooking classes, or even
in your school’s <a href="http://www.healthyschoolenvironment.org/training-resources/school-garden-produce">cafeteria</a>! You can use this <a href="http://www.letsmove.gov/school-garden-checklist">School Garden Checklist</a> for tips on how to create a garden
for your students. If you cannot grow an outdoor garden you can still bring
plants and their educational opportunities into your classroom by using indoor
plant containers. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Compost</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4UUQNmX289NqrKOFr3Ai7aGyOksZg506PvIK6VVbG2gBuzzceql85uNOjU4d0Ua058FMyhgWNAjgKm3O8zJSQr7jpOYcfQxc7ri-TRg2RBKSU8C2waIibsYKpVeEAqpxcoz1g209tWM/s1600/compost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_4UUQNmX289NqrKOFr3Ai7aGyOksZg506PvIK6VVbG2gBuzzceql85uNOjU4d0Ua058FMyhgWNAjgKm3O8zJSQr7jpOYcfQxc7ri-TRg2RBKSU8C2waIibsYKpVeEAqpxcoz1g209tWM/s320/compost.jpg" width="205" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">By
composting you can help the environment<span style="color: #00b050;"> </span>by naturally recycling a large amount of
your school’s waste into nutrient-rich soil</span>. You can use the soil
produced from it for your school’s flowers, trees, shrubs or even vegetable
garden. Composting reduces landfill greenhouse gas emissions and toxins, as
well as reduces the amount of space required for landfills. Composting presents
a good opportunity to educate on the connections between food, waste and
humankind’s impact on the planet. Additionally, it educates on the impact that
many small but important biological interactions in nature have; they
ultimately make our lives possible through recycling essential life-giving nutrients.
If composting outside cannot be done at your school, consider getting a <a href="http://planetgreen.discovery.com/home-garden/build-a-worm-bin.html">worm bin</a> for your class. For more
information and a guide to easy composting visit our <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2011/10/composting-for-greener-future.html">Composting for a Greener Future</a>
page. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Recycle while
raising funds for your school</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="entry-content">Recycling reduces the size and affect of landfills, helps conserve
natural resources, decreases pollution, saves energy, and can earn money for
your school!</span> How does it work? Your school can collect items such
as beverage containers or electronics and give them to programs like Encorp’s <a href="http://www.return-it.ca/youthcentre/">Return It</a> program (for schools in BC) whom then pay your
school money and responsibly recycle the items. <a href="http://www.thinkrecycle.com/en/how-it-works">Think Recycle</a> is another school recycling program which accepts
electronics such as laptops, toner cartridges, inkjet cartridges, and digital
cameras. Also, remember to put in place easily accessible recycling bins for
other paper and plastic wastes. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOMZW13OxHUQNLsp3Z2qZ8EM_7BTY9IwSIzf7cst-P2hHK78WexJEA9Pb9s-INpNEf8C7_rPJcQMktHt4LWNeZAYm0BEGhmPWJ3F2mOlGoFY1Ak2nWM_6jWbKxH76VHW15MHKMzWmvXiU/s1600/recycle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOMZW13OxHUQNLsp3Z2qZ8EM_7BTY9IwSIzf7cst-P2hHK78WexJEA9Pb9s-INpNEf8C7_rPJcQMktHt4LWNeZAYm0BEGhmPWJ3F2mOlGoFY1Ak2nWM_6jWbKxH76VHW15MHKMzWmvXiU/s640/recycle.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Use recycled paper
products and use both sides of paper</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Make a policy for your classroom or school that urges
students and teachers to use recycled paper as well as print, write, or draw on
both sides of the paper. You can even set the school’s printers to duplex mode
to ensure double sided printing. Whenever possible, be sure to use recycled
paper towel, toilet paper, envelopes, and tissues. As a result you will lighten
your environmental footprint by saving trees, water, energy, and landfill
space!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If your school is able to go the extra mile, you can also
dramatically reduce your class’s paper footprint by using <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/01/green-resources-digital-textbooks.html">digital textbooks</a> instead of
printed ones! Touted as the way of the future, going digital helps reduce the burden
on paper and can even improve learning and teaching.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGucf2rdLk79xrWmUAJsSNj-AtSa9zOSJGWAU76Cv_Htlw1ugvoOpUMbZYHSJh8v8Z3Pp3v7VY2JD3szFHVv9WERNW4D-8bpTT5rhXqBwe4llTtG_sp5BWNdE88P0OtchSjO8Vfhj35kQ/s1600/noidling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGucf2rdLk79xrWmUAJsSNj-AtSa9zOSJGWAU76Cv_Htlw1ugvoOpUMbZYHSJh8v8Z3Pp3v7VY2JD3szFHVv9WERNW4D-8bpTT5rhXqBwe4llTtG_sp5BWNdE88P0OtchSjO8Vfhj35kQ/s200/noidling.jpg" width="153" /></a><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Make your school a "no-idling zone"</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To avoid unnecessary greenhouse gas emissions you can create
a policy that urges parents, bus drivers, and anyone else who visits your
school to turn their vehicles off while waiting. According to <a href="http://foecanada.org/en/">Friends of the Earth</a>, Canadians idle away
$1.3 million in greenhouse-gas-producing fuel each year! Turning idling
vehicles off immediately can go a long way in reducing this amount.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Teach students about the environment and sustainability</span><o:p></o:p></span></strong></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Teachers play a significant
role in encouraging environmental thinkers for society; in a few short years
your students will be helping to decide the fate of the planet. Teach kids
simple things such as the principles of zero-waste, the </span></strong><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/04/what-is-carbon-footprint-and-what-does.html">carbon footprint</a> calculations of their commute to school, the basic
science behind climate change, and the benefits of making decisions for the
planet as well as themselves. Steps like growing your own food, supporting
local businesses, buying second hand, and minimizing waste can make a big
difference when practised for a lifetime. Teaching children about the planet
early can help inspire kids to think and learn more about the world around them
and humankind’s significant impacts on it. The basic skills and knowledge
students learn today can grow into planet-saving capabilities they could put into
use tomorrow!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">You can check out these </span></strong><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/03/easy-ways-to-get-your-kids-thinking.html">easy ways to get kids thinking about the
environment early</a>, use these <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2011/11/renewable-energy-documentaries.html">Renewable Energy Documentaries</a>
and films by <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/07/the-story-of-change.html">The Story of Stuff</a> project to
environmentally engage students, and visit the rest of <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/">our blog</a> for more information
on many other green topics to reference in the classroom.</span><b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Remember to stay tuned to our <a href="https://twitter.com/Greencyclopedia">Twitter account</a> for daily green updates as well as our special #TeacherTuesday tweets for eco-friendly education!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Some other helpful environmental teaching resources are:</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><a href="http://seedsfoundation.ca/index.asp?pid=9" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The GREEN School program</a></li>
<li><a href="http://wwf.panda.org/about_our_earth/teacher_resources/lesson_plans/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">World Wildlife Fund</a></li>
<li><a href="http://lsf-lst.ca/en/projects/teacher-resources/resources-for-rethinkings-r4r" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Resources for Rethinking</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/education/2012/sep/17/polar-arctic-meltdown-climate-change" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The Guardian Teacher Network</a></li>
<li><a href="http://education.nationalgeographic.com/education/topics/climate-change/?ar_a=2" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">National Geographic</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.discoveryeducation.com/search/page/-/-/-/environment/index.cfm?campaign=deHeader_search"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Discovery Education</span></a></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Sources: <a href="http://www.treehugger.com/htgg/how-to-go-green-school-teachers.html">TreeHugger</a>, <a href="http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/school.html">EPA</a>, <a href="http://www.practicallygreen.com/actions/">Practically Green</a>, <a href="http://www.worldvision.ca/ContentArchives/content-stories/Pages/5-Steps-to-Go-Green-at-School.aspx">World Vision</a>, <a href="http://nfpa.typepad.com/evsafetytraining/2012/01/hybrid-buses-saving-the-planetand-school-budgets.html">National
Fire Protection Association</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eu5A6Y9LTAk&list=LPRHAKlKYiW14&index=2&feature=plcp">About.com</a>,
<a href="http://newscenter.nmsu.edu/news/article/4299/">New Mexico State
University</a>, <a href="http://www.iwight.com/council/departments/waste/home_composting/">Isle of
Wight Council</a>, <a href="http://www.planetpals.com/recyclingworld.html">Planet
Pals</a>, <a href="http://www.pca.state.mn.us/index.php/air/air-quality-and-pollutants/general-air-quality/motor-vehicle-pollution/school-bus-retrofits-and-idle-reduction.html"><span lang="FR-CA">Minnesota Pollution Control Agency</span></a>,
<a href="http://www.renewableenergymexico.com/?tag=environmental-education-in-mexico">New
Energy Connections</a>, <a href="http://inhabitat.com/back-to-school-eco-friendly-school-supplies/">Inhabitat</a>, <a href="http://goumbook.com/10-things-kids-can-do-to-go-green/">Goumbook</a>, <a href="http://www.thefamilygroove.com/mar09_EcoHasLanded.htm">The Family Groove</a></span></div>
Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-19362372603570509162012-11-27T14:57:00.000-08:002012-11-27T14:58:16.266-08:00How to Go Green at Home<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">1) Everyday Actions</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Turn off the
lights when you leave a room</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Turning off the lights saves both energy and money. For
example, a standard bulb uses 60 watts of energy an hour and can chew through a
whole kilowatt of energy over approximately 16 hours. A kilowatt hour of energy
costs approximately $0.12. Leaving that light on unnecessarily for 16 hours a
day all year adds up to 365 kilowatts of energy and $43.80 down the drain! Leave
the lights on in a room with multiple bulbs and you will cost yourself even
more. CFL and LED bulbs use less energy but they still should be turned off
when you leave the room. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If your household occupants are having difficulty remembering
to regularly turn the lights off you can install motion or occupant sensors.
These will automatically turn off lighting when no one is present and come back
on when they return. There are also some creative systems designed to help you
monitor your lights, like the <a href="http://timholley.de/2010/08/10/tio/">Tio</a>
for kids!</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Unplug your
appliances/ electronics when you are not using them</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Electricity continuously flows through the plugs of your electronic
gadgets so they are ready to jump into action at any time; even if your gadgets
aren't on they are still consuming energy to be ready when you are.<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"> Things that are not on but are still plugged in
suck up to $4 billion a year in energy; just your laptop plugged into the wall
and turned on can cost you $9.00 a year! <o:p></o:p></span></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To remedy this unplug your electronics manually or plug groups of
electrical items into <a href="http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-tech/sustainable/smart-power-strip.htm">Smart Strips</a>. Smart strips stop
drawing power when your gadgets are turned off so your energy emissions and
costs are reduced. How do smart strips work? When a printer plugged into a
basic smart strip goes into standby mode, its power consumption drops.
Consequently the smart strips circuitry detects the change and cuts the power to
that outlet but the rest of the outlets in use stay on.<strong> </strong><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Conserve water </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Turn off the tap and shower when not in use, limit the
number of baths you take, and only run a washing machine or dishwasher with a
full load. You can even install a low-flow shower head and save as much as 60%
of the water used by a conventional fixture! Dripping taps should be replaced
because they can waste 9,000 litres of hot water each year.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Additionally, if you are watering your lawn in the summer
purely for aesthetics, consider decreasing the amount of water you use on it
and let it become brown. Grasses go dormant when they go without water, but do
not die. A prolonged drought will eventually kill your grass but if you water
it only a couple times a month (or it rains), <a href="http://www.hortmag.com/weekly-tips/cultivation/is-a-brown-lawn-a-dead-lawn">your grass should still be fine</a>.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Recycle</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Return your old bottles, cans, and juice containers to
recycling depots. Most cities even have recycling programs for old newspapers,
magazines, paper, and cardboards such as <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2011/08/we-recycle-do-you.html">Vancouver’s blue box program</a>. If
you don’t already have a recycling box, check to see if your city offers a
recycling program and get started. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="entry-content">Additionally, make sure to recycle your old electronics such as
computers, cell-phones, televisions, cameras and kitchen appliances such as
microwaves. Recycling all these items reduces the size and affect of landfills,
helps conserve natural resources, decreases pollution, and saves energy. For
example </span>recycling one million laptops saves the energy equivalent
to the electricity used by more than 3,500 US homes in a year. <span class="entry-content"> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="entry-content">There are many places you can take your items for proper disposal and
recycling. If you are in the United States, </span><a href="http://search.earth911.com/">Earth
911</a><span class="entry-content">
has a quick search option for you to find recycling solutions for many
different items. In North America, the </span><a href="http://e-stewards.org/find-a-recycler/">E-Stewards Initiative</a><span class="entry-content"> provides locations for recycling
electronics. For electronics in the US, you can use </span><a href="http://www.ecyclingcenter.com/">www.ecyclingcenter.com</a><span class="entry-content">, </span><a href="http://www.ecyclingcentral.com/">www.ecyclingcentral.com</a><span class="entry-content">, or </span><a href="http://www.greenergadgets.org/">www.greenergadgets.org</a><span class="entry-content"> to find recycling
locations close to you. In Canada, </span><a href="http://www.ec.gc.ca/education/default.asp?lang=En&n=A4F6B414-1">Environment Canada</a><span class="entry-content"> has links to
where and how you can recycle various items by province.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.call2recycle.org/">Call2Recycle</a><span class="entry-content"> is also a great
resource to find locations for recycling your old batteries and cell-phones
anywhere within North America. Additionally, many companies have recycling
programs for their products, with some even offering you a credit or rebate for
returning old products. </span>For example, <a href="http://www.apple.com/">Apple</a>
offers customers gift cards for returning old iPhones, iPads, Macs or PCs.
Apple will take care of the shipping costs if you mail it back to them or you
can drop it off at any apple store.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Go
paperless</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Go a step further than just recycling your paper;
avoid initially using it whenever possible! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Cancel your paper delivery and use online news
websites to keep up to date on important issues</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Sign up for e-billing options wherever possible;
most financial institutions, utilities, and electronic service providers now
offer this</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Send e-cards instead of paper cards for special
occasions</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Print only select pages instead of entire documents</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Keep electronic copies (and backups) of documents
on an external hard drive instead of printing them out for your records</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Use cloths or sponges instead of paper towels</span></li>
<li><a href="http://www.practicallygreen.com/actions/cancel-your-yellow-pages-delivery"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Cancel your yellow pages delivery</span></a></li>
<li><a href="file:///C:/Users/Rob/Desktop/Server/Greencyclopedia%20Research%20Corp/Communications/Social%20Media/eBlogger/To%20Post%20-%20How%20to%20Go%20Green%20at/Home/%E2%80%A2%09http:/www.practicallygreen.com/actions/switch-to-a-reusable-coffee-filter" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Switch to a metal mesh reusable coffee
filter</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> so you do not need disposable paper ones</span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Line dry your
clothes</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A clothes dryer is one of the largest energy hogs in your
home. By relying on air and sun to do the drying work, you eliminate the use of
electricity or gas, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and conserve non-renewable
resources. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sunshine acts as a natural sanitizer and whitener,
eliminating the need for bleach. Air-drying is also gentle on fabrics so it
helps them last longer, though dark items should be kept out of the sun or they
will fade. When the weather is not very nice you can dry your clothes on racks
inside instead. </span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Practice
Socially Responsible Investing (SRI)</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsc4PC5VWSC05DtEe4jUcekfJKF-q985YTvJ_qd3yPjFT7EtSujKAI1TKAjVBsrKwUsB72TTzscSkK_i-QKb68tu1awDMrLsOg8w8hvlFXJlFtwKphSrPahk5Ictw9Uxc3iBi088j_-v0/s1600/investgreen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsc4PC5VWSC05DtEe4jUcekfJKF-q985YTvJ_qd3yPjFT7EtSujKAI1TKAjVBsrKwUsB72TTzscSkK_i-QKb68tu1awDMrLsOg8w8hvlFXJlFtwKphSrPahk5Ictw9Uxc3iBi088j_-v0/s200/investgreen.jpg" width="198" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">People are not the only ones going green; companies
are as well. Spend your dollars on companies that have corporate social
responsibility programs related to the environment and avoid dealing with
companies that cause the environment more harm. Encourage the institutions you
are affiliated with such as universities and banks to invest in companies that
are improving the health of the planet. Many institutions may promote sustainable
initiatives but still invest millions of dollars in fossil fuel stock so do
some research before letting them handle your money.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Turn
down the heat when you are not home</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Why keep the heat running if no one is home? It is
another great way to save money on your energy bill. If you are someone who is
in a rush in the mornings and tend to forget, try installing a programmable
thermostat instead. You save 2% on your heating bill for every 1⁰C that the
thermostat is lowered. There are also electronic systems designed to help you
manage the varying levels of heat in your home, like <a href="http://www.tado.com/en/this-is-tado.html">Tado</a>!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYGxbWpswmTZcMfMq6szGwOEtzfCF8kh6-Yj3GQteIBgVuURUR7ivMKn-GgS7VX6wBRzcjRdHJOiFWOxt6aNxs-UeE1kZkAv_dRZspYclqMWAIH0-8xlBgwEa4gKK5rqhn98VtNkXRiz4/s1600/tado.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYGxbWpswmTZcMfMq6szGwOEtzfCF8kh6-Yj3GQteIBgVuURUR7ivMKn-GgS7VX6wBRzcjRdHJOiFWOxt6aNxs-UeE1kZkAv_dRZspYclqMWAIH0-8xlBgwEa4gKK5rqhn98VtNkXRiz4/s640/tado.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">2) Buy Green Products</span></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Clean Green</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiftDV6jRiEbG-NAz60-hxpXNnGpBPOsQqnfufu29ZyugZGlReuOGsATxYGi1qFLEq2ova1oOBp7Nc2rIEkvkKwGHf9jqRNWkocSt75FXD7emReEclWMn5PnjdppC_t-m_XTGOoGSPKqxY/s1600/cleangreen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiftDV6jRiEbG-NAz60-hxpXNnGpBPOsQqnfufu29ZyugZGlReuOGsATxYGi1qFLEq2ova1oOBp7Nc2rIEkvkKwGHf9jqRNWkocSt75FXD7emReEclWMn5PnjdppC_t-m_XTGOoGSPKqxY/s200/cleangreen.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Using <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.com/2011/07/great-acts-are-made-up-of-small-deeds.html">green products</a> in your household
cleaning can be better for the health of the planet, yourself, your family, and
your pets. Green products are typically made with natural ingredients and can
reduce the amount of harmful toxins you are exposed to each day. Green products
are also often packaged in recycled or biodegradable materials and offer bulk options
to reduce waste. Research and read the labels of your green products, looking
for words such as <i>biodegradable</i>, <i>100% recycled</i>, <i>certified
organic</i>, and <i>green certified</i>, to chose the ones that are right for
you. You can also <a href="http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/home/buy-cleaning-supplies.htm">make your own</a> simple formulas
using ingredients like vinegar and lemon juice.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Choose
alternatives to aerosol sprays </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6tks6tSLN0tNAO7vAU_lTgK_aXwu-XXqkDBpcaSvgZrufUQzG-lImhR_R0_50vdUGQ-9bi1Kskz2Hp5e-cUNZuSUQvUWvIWnlkKMg3L643MdQto-Zj7ynv16-LqUdcYbIuv3UoAVWdM/s1600/aerosol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6tks6tSLN0tNAO7vAU_lTgK_aXwu-XXqkDBpcaSvgZrufUQzG-lImhR_R0_50vdUGQ-9bi1Kskz2Hp5e-cUNZuSUQvUWvIWnlkKMg3L643MdQto-Zj7ynv16-LqUdcYbIuv3UoAVWdM/s200/aerosol.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Aerosol sprays are convenient but if the sprays they emit
miss their target those aerosol particles can remain suspended in the air for
hours or even days. Consequently, the particles can become air pollution that
is harmful when inhaled. Additionally, the chemicals used to actually propel
the sprays out of the can include petroleum-derived volatile organic compounds
like isobutene, butane, and pentane, which are unhealthy to breathe and create
air pollution, too. Aerosol sprays are a key reason why ordinary household
products, including cleaners and personal care items, are second only to cars
as the Los Angeles region’s leading source of air pollution.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Buy energy
efficient appliances and light bulbs</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Remember to look for the <a href="http://oee.nrcan.gc.ca/energuide/15896">EnerGuide</a> tag when purchasing
new appliances as it displays a product’s estimated annual energy
consumption and evaluates it against the consumption performance of similar
products. The Energuide label appears on major household appliances, heating,
cooling and ventilation equipment, new houses, and cars.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZZGj3DMBZTjdy7hHF7HkW4igejkhuqkDqZkQlVQ2FnWGRlNCT9rFXApy6aKNfiDcz-yjDfhkJBAhlYUfQBoIGSGvFt05hzAsZT8MSPUIza33Uy4T_y0fuygAe634nlgn28yNtAL-vetU/s1600/energystar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZZGj3DMBZTjdy7hHF7HkW4igejkhuqkDqZkQlVQ2FnWGRlNCT9rFXApy6aKNfiDcz-yjDfhkJBAhlYUfQBoIGSGvFt05hzAsZT8MSPUIza33Uy4T_y0fuygAe634nlgn28yNtAL-vetU/s200/energystar.jpg" width="192" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Also, look for the <a href="http://www.energystar.gov/">ENERGY STAR</a> label which indicates the
most energy efficient major appliances, lighting products, electronics,
windows, doors and skylights. Refitting your home with energy saving light bulbs
labelled ENERGY STAR® not only helps the environment, but helps you save money
on your electricity bill as well! Compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs use 75%
less energy than incandescent bulbs and can last up to 10 times longer. Light
emitting diode (LED) lights are an emerging technology and are also 75% more
efficient than incandescent bulbs. LEDs can last even longer than CFLs—lasting
15 to 20 times longer than incandescent bulbs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Wash clothes in
cold water with coldwater detergents</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span class="entry-content">In a typical wash, just heating the water accounts for approximately 75%
of the energy use and GHG emissions generated from the load! To reduce energy
and emissions companies such as </span><a href="http://www.tide.com/en-CA/product/tide-coldwater.jspx">Tide</a><span class="entry-content"> have developed cold-water detergents that
compensate for the benefits of heat. This is done through adding different
enzymes and surfactants that work better in cold water to the detergent. Tide’s
Coldwater detergent has been ranked among Consumer Report’s top detergents;
proof coldwater washes with the correct detergents really can get clothes
clean!</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Use recycled paper
(when you cannot go paperless)</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Paper products often offer at least one recycled version
of a certain percentage, typically anywhere from 30% - 100%. Try buying the
highest percentage you can afford for: </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Tissues</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Toilet paper</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Printing paper</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Paper towel</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Greeting cards</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Envelopes</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">And more!</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Buy your clothes
from second hand stores or buy clothes made from sustainable fabrics</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Textile manufacturing uses large amounts of water while
also emitting large amounts of greenhouse gases and pollutants. Buying your
clothes second hand and donating your old clothes helps to reduce the demand
for new textiles and thus reduces their environmental impacts. If new clothes
are necessary many popular brands like <a href="http://www.adidas.ca/">Adidas</a>,
<a href="http://us.levi.com/home/index.jsp">Levi’s</a> and <a href="http://www.hm.com/">H&M</a> offer clothes made from more eco-friendly
material. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Switch to
rechargeable batteries</b> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Rechargeable batteries are both better for the
environment and save you money in the long run. Most batteries (even
rechargeable ones) can release harmful metals such as mercury, lead and cadmium
when taken to landfills. Rechargeable batteries are easy to recycle though and
because rechargeable ones can be reused numerous times, they result in less
energy and waste product overall. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Although rechargeable batteries cost more initially they
typically can be recharged hundreds of times, consequently saving you from
having to buy hundreds of single use ones which would be overall more
expensive. You can even buy rechargeable batteries that can recharge through
your computer’s USB ports!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOdiXhU6hBVn6lHZnDJaXZcx3Cd6gGGGLI45PodNdyrZKA1p-qL-WgaXFUXU_K4GhWkTBJbm7Zy3ladV3Iuojxm8GoM9t8y8XpUXymj0xlkrpyOawclGVnrOiwj03uDwDhDygxZOSIGds/s1600/rechargable_batteries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOdiXhU6hBVn6lHZnDJaXZcx3Cd6gGGGLI45PodNdyrZKA1p-qL-WgaXFUXU_K4GhWkTBJbm7Zy3ladV3Iuojxm8GoM9t8y8XpUXymj0xlkrpyOawclGVnrOiwj03uDwDhDygxZOSIGds/s640/rechargable_batteries.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Learn more about recycling batteries from our blog post, <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/11/the-life-death-and-resurrection-of.html">The
Life, Death, and Resurrection of a Battery</a>.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">3) Eat Green</span><i><o:p></o:p></i></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Buy reusable
containers</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgIS5nlR548vV4gSdELv6xIyCepZHf-GjEDjFu0FKm7TIb2ppYrt_h0zsO1Rt6eZ217d7MykWiOCr-pfE9tKyc3FmK8z_YLO77IrA9HXm36n14utwy50RH7dhZg0jLCkvIzhXc8WvZg8o/s1600/reusablecontainers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgIS5nlR548vV4gSdELv6xIyCepZHf-GjEDjFu0FKm7TIb2ppYrt_h0zsO1Rt6eZ217d7MykWiOCr-pfE9tKyc3FmK8z_YLO77IrA9HXm36n14utwy50RH7dhZg0jLCkvIzhXc8WvZg8o/s200/reusablecontainers.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Use reusable containers and make tonight’s dinner into
tomorrow's lunch! That way you can reduce the amount of packaging used for a
bagged lunch and eliminate the need to get take out. Use reusable coffee mugs
and water bottles to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. Plastic
water bottles are a major source of waste in landfills with approximately 40
million plastic water bottles being disposed daily worldwide! Use a water
filter in your home instead and use a stainless steel water bottle (which won’t
leak any chemicals) when on the go. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Compost</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJQREwt0PknDX91V7usuSRyV9Ev3jcq6O2qf7vJo6IdcjHyCxOcqRI-ZEeBBrmR1C8PoVlI3hgt78D0HrTNnwKQut7uvhiR9rjajV726AhAt_OFBJTs8nB8QpZ9DYj8R55xdr0rgucC8/s1600/compost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJQREwt0PknDX91V7usuSRyV9Ev3jcq6O2qf7vJo6IdcjHyCxOcqRI-ZEeBBrmR1C8PoVlI3hgt78D0HrTNnwKQut7uvhiR9rjajV726AhAt_OFBJTs8nB8QpZ9DYj8R55xdr0rgucC8/s200/compost.jpg" width="128" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">By
composting you can help the environment<span style="color: #00b050;"> </span>by naturally recycling a large majority of
your household waste into nutrient-rich soil</span>. Composting reduces
landfill greenhouse gas emissions and toxins, as well as reduces the amount of
space required for landfills. For more information and a guide to easy
composting visit our <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2011/10/composting-for-greener-future.html">Composting for a Greener Future</a>
page. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Buy food with
small amounts of packaging</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Food packaging generates large amounts of waste. The
average American generates roughly 300 pounds of packaging waste a year. This
makes up about a third of the typical household waste stream, and around 66% consists
of food packaging alone. Additionally, plastic packaging is made from fossil
fuels so buying food with less packaging can help reduce your environmental
impact. Buying in bulk can sometimes facilitate this as it tends to have the
maximum amount of product in a minimum amount of packaging. However, if your
bulk goods are just going into the garbage in the end since you do not have a
real need for them you may not actually be reducing your waste impact.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Eat less meat</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Livestock can create about as much greenhouse gas
pollution as cars, planes, and other forms of transport; the production of just
a 1/4lb hamburger can release 6.5 pounds of greenhouse gases. Eating meat also
takes a heavy environmental toll on land and water worldwide with 1,800 gallons
of water being required to produce 1lb of beef. If all Americans did not eat
meat or cheese one day a week, it would have the same effect as taking 7.6
million cars off the road for one year! Learn more about the hidden costs of
beef in this <a href="http://cironline.org/reports/hidden-costs-hamburgers-3701">animated short
film</a> from the <a href="http://cironline.org/reports/hidden-costs-hamburgers-3701">Center for
Investigative Reporting</a>. Making the change to a full vegetarian may be a
hard change to suddenly make but you can start out by cutting out meat from a
few meals a week or being a <a href="http://www.ted.com/talks/graham_hill_weekday_vegetarian.html">weekday vegetarian</a>. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Use reusable
shopping bags</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz5WbJegZGu4kv2kLbTiiWrS4mvDjULzmxl2hPWOEKXsqS6bLSdT1LtmBqiE_C6pJOE8Oi3Mq_3sAxbStxChYtMG6BSX6EyxgdxeMu-3lU9vNam9-Qep6LO7SA74PXFZKMCUyBFXzBsNY/s1600/reusablebag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz5WbJegZGu4kv2kLbTiiWrS4mvDjULzmxl2hPWOEKXsqS6bLSdT1LtmBqiE_C6pJOE8Oi3Mq_3sAxbStxChYtMG6BSX6EyxgdxeMu-3lU9vNam9-Qep6LO7SA74PXFZKMCUyBFXzBsNY/s200/reusablebag.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Disposable plastic bags harm the environment as only 1%
of them are recycled and the degradation of them releases toxins. A reusable bag’s
longer utility life equates for the production of many disposable ones
offsetting a reusable bag’s initial production emissions. A key factor in
reusable bags being more sustainable than non-reusable ones is the actual
continued use of the bag; if each bag is used at least once a week, four or
five reusable bags can replace 230 disposable bags a year. Overall reusable
bags make more environmental sense than disposable ones but only if they are
reused many times. Most stores no longer have plastic bags or charge a fee if
you require one.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Buy sustainably
sourced seafood </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2j0P_377KR_NSzysdGezdMm1_ZqZWJmNlldK9jJWfRoaAzvbhciEeN2G2_LqZMFqmG7quwve3dbFdu74hZmtavEY5_s6_XxfmHANNceWD6n6c-G9eNsygz9xe3Ugv-6KsCJqsLvT-ztw/s1600/MarineSC.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2j0P_377KR_NSzysdGezdMm1_ZqZWJmNlldK9jJWfRoaAzvbhciEeN2G2_LqZMFqmG7quwve3dbFdu74hZmtavEY5_s6_XxfmHANNceWD6n6c-G9eNsygz9xe3Ugv-6KsCJqsLvT-ztw/s1600/MarineSC.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Today 85% of the earth’s fisheries are being harvested at
or above capacity or have collapsed. The fishing industry also is a major cause
of ocean habitat destruction due to catching methods like trawling. Farm-raised
fish also can have environmental impacts such as pollution, disease, and
contamination of wild fish stocks. When buying seafood look for the label of
the <a href="http://www.msc.org/about-us/standards/methodologies">Marine Stewardship Council</a>, which
indicates that a seafood product has successfully met requirements for
sustainability.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Additional resources to determine if your seafood purchase
is sustainable:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.edf.org/sites/default/files/1980_pocket_seafood_selector.pdf" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The Environmental Defense Fund’s Pocket
Seafood Guide</a></li>
<li><a href="http://blueocean.org/2010/08/900/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Blue Ocean Institute’s FishPhone</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">
– Get the FishPhone App for Iphones or you can text 30644 with the message FISH
and the name of the fish in question, and they'll send a text back with their
assessment and recommended alternatives</span></li>
<li><a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/usa/en/campaigns/oceans/seafood/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Greenpeace’s Sustainable Seafood Supermarket
Scorecard</a></li>
</ul>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Purchase
sustainably produced coffee </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Coffee is just behind oil as the second most traded
commodity in the world. Coffee beans are generally farmed in areas that are
considered high priority for conservation. You can help maintain these forests
and the wildlife habitat they provide by purchasing coffee that is <a href="http://www.rainforest-alliance.org/">Rainforest Alliance Certified</a>.
Approximately 1.3% of the world’s coffee is Rainforest Alliance Certified. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Eat local and in
season</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">Produce that is grown in
your area requires lower inputs to get to the store/farmers’ market/restaurant,
and by buying seasonal produce you’re more likely to get produce that’s local.</span><span lang="EN-US"> A good way to know if your food is
sustainably produced is to talk to the farmer! Buy farm-gate produce or
shop at farmers’ markets whenever it’s possible. Ask the farmer how they
grow their crops. The farmers that are passionate about sustainable practices
will enthusiastically share their knowledge. You can read more about
sustainable agriculture on our blog </span><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/09/what-is-sustainable-agriculture.html"><span lang="EN-US">here</span></a><span lang="EN-US">. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6zRfcbIgwe2T1ZMJRjY11vFSVM_q7QZWzO-GaPV51f3-sAb_mZDvf9eh8sL8CoCoD31jq49-iF2rlxp7rVGGJED9kF_lYk_CqfdKiu6JK1-1bAsE4YpTA5w8OGaJn2eEkw2_2Ub1HF3c/s1600/localfood.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6zRfcbIgwe2T1ZMJRjY11vFSVM_q7QZWzO-GaPV51f3-sAb_mZDvf9eh8sL8CoCoD31jq49-iF2rlxp7rVGGJED9kF_lYk_CqfdKiu6JK1-1bAsE4YpTA5w8OGaJn2eEkw2_2Ub1HF3c/s640/localfood.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">Another
great way to make sure that your food is produced sustainably is to grow your
own! Growing food in your own back yard or community garden ensures that the
food is pesticide and GMO free (so there are no negative impacts on the
surrounding soil, water, or organisms), energy used to produce it is minimized,
and that transport emissions associated with it are very small.</span><span class="entry-content"> Learn more about
the local food movement at </span><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/06/farm-to-table.html">Farm-to-Table: Local Sustainability</a><span class="entry-content">.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Know your certifying bodies so you can eat
organic</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span class="entry-content"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Certified organic food is regulated by strict environmental stewardship
and resource conservation standards that seek to enhance natural processes that
sustain plant and animal life in nature and avoid using synthetic methods to
control pests and soil fertility. Organic food standards reduce pesticide use
associated with the contamination and damage of ecosystems and prevent a number
of negative human health problems linked to pesticide use. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6F4A9TyBfunvnaedMPKoZYKYALOkaZ9wRtus7TvzF4SAoYWISbZgaQwyPpA_99KRBZ-BFiFS58LOczVRLswrIko6Q2LleNdHzLH5bO8KR43SUFk1rPiwfxE6InIk2K_lD9JUTks07gQE/s1600/canadaorganic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6F4A9TyBfunvnaedMPKoZYKYALOkaZ9wRtus7TvzF4SAoYWISbZgaQwyPpA_99KRBZ-BFiFS58LOczVRLswrIko6Q2LleNdHzLH5bO8KR43SUFk1rPiwfxE6InIk2K_lD9JUTks07gQE/s200/canadaorganic.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">Each piece of organic
produce is certified, and each certifying body has different regulations about
what makes the produce organic. By having a general idea which bodies
have regulations to ensure sustainable and ethical practices, you can make
educated decisions while shopping. </span><a href="http://www.inspection.gc.ca/food/organic-products/labelling-and-general-information/questions-and-answers/eng/1328081798738/1328081871795"><span lang="EN-US">Canadian Organic
certification</span></a> <span lang="EN-US">indicates
that products meet the Canadian standard for organic production, contain at
least 95% organic ingredients and are not GMOs (genetically modified
organisms). In British Columbia, check out the </span><a href="http://www.certifiedorganic.bc.ca/"><span lang="EN-US">Certified
Organic Association of BC</span></a><span lang="EN-US">.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">4) Build Green</span><i><o:p></o:p></i></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Renovate or build
eco-friendly </span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">You can use <a href="http://www.epa.gov/climatechange/ghgemissions/ind-calculator.html">this
tool</a> by the <a href="http://www.epa.gov/">Environmental
Protection Agency</a> (EPA) to estimate your household emissions and provide
possible solutions to lower them. The tool breaks it down in both a dollars
perspective and an emissions perspective for you.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Particularly make sure to seal and insulate your home
well to ensure that your home is not unnecessarily losing heat through your
windows, walls, and doors. Heating costs take up a large chunk of your home’s
energy bill. You can even improve your home’s air tightness by installing caulking
or weather-stripping. Double glazed windows are also a worthy investment.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Find more information on eco-friendly ways to
retrofit existing building structures, eco-friendly home products, and
eco-friendly green roofs <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/01/eco-friendly-architecture-paints.html">here</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Install your own
renewable energy producers for your home</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1G3ajVfURuieBd8pMxwXIehNAbKB6Hy6KKro8b1xsnt2n5VK8i4MQ9AICqTnjHkD-PcxCL8DiDyCpWuRBRu1r3CkD7gEuYf28Hq803KqbB-d7FOa_uQYvEu5La0OVYPJmmlR9B3L-Qyk/s1600/solarathome.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1G3ajVfURuieBd8pMxwXIehNAbKB6Hy6KKro8b1xsnt2n5VK8i4MQ9AICqTnjHkD-PcxCL8DiDyCpWuRBRu1r3CkD7gEuYf28Hq803KqbB-d7FOa_uQYvEu5La0OVYPJmmlR9B3L-Qyk/s200/solarathome.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Though some regions generate their grid power from
cleaner energy sources such as hydropower other regions source their grid power
from emission-heavy fossil fuel powered plants. To ensure that the energy that
powers your home is sourced sustainably you can install your own renewable
energy technology. Over the lifetime of your renewable energy producer you
could save money overall and potentially make money selling some energy back to
your region’s energy provider if it generates surplus energy.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Check out our pages on <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/02/wind-energy-in-home.html">wind</a>, <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/02/solar-energy-in-home.html">solar</a>, and <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/03/geothermal-energy-in-home.html">geothermal</a> energy in the home for
more information.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Sources: <a href="http://www.hortmag.com/weekly-tips/cultivation/is-a-brown-lawn-a-dead-lawn">Hortmag</a>, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 150%;"><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2011/08/go-green-go-paperless.html" style="line-height: 150%;">Go Green, Go Paperless</a>, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 150%;"><a href="http://www.practicallygreen.com/actions" style="line-height: 150%;">Practically Green</a>, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 150%;"><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2011/09/28-ways-to-build-green-lifestyle.html" style="line-height: 150%;">28 Ways</a>, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 150%;"><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2011/07/5-ways-to-go-green-this-week.html" style="line-height: 150%;">Green This Week</a>, </span><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/02/daily-green.html" style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif; line-height: 150%;">Daily Green</span></a></span></div>
<br />Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-68639857386048656892012-11-06T09:52:00.000-08:002012-11-27T13:54:52.148-08:00The Life, Death, and Resurrection of a Battery<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHjMzDPuC6pyJSpsbfw7k6CDWu3s5wXZ4AQUQ-5a0M5SFJVqQsFbJjOjsxhY3UFEdG2FLnW51KfmnSetyy9XRYEN_KIICWTYnhwplcQV0G5JX2G-ZFc1c0erZ3zAo-jFMoZpOlkkCe5fg/s1600/battery-recycle-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHjMzDPuC6pyJSpsbfw7k6CDWu3s5wXZ4AQUQ-5a0M5SFJVqQsFbJjOjsxhY3UFEdG2FLnW51KfmnSetyy9XRYEN_KIICWTYnhwplcQV0G5JX2G-ZFc1c0erZ3zAo-jFMoZpOlkkCe5fg/s200/battery-recycle-2.jpg" width="195" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In 2010, Canadians purchased 22,843
tonnes of batteries. Less than a third of those were rechargeable, and many
ended up in landfills. We all use rechargeable batteries in our cell phones and
laptops, in our calculators and our cars, but many of us still buy single-use
batteries for portable devices like flash lights, remote controls, and toys.
About 88% of the total mercury and 50% of the cadmium found in
municipal waste comes from batteries.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTT2pg1-bKSlNKa4Ur2cQs4zFRs0Sbb7KgpTlch0oDXmIbfGcOqqsAc5o6J0vaUv7vYHQRYsaIFYh5vokZXJof8O5ZhNLNMJCtnDdLcVtHSh50ZvANcVGs_xAF5CIQjtPS5lIfSO1xLvg/s1600/energizer-battery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTT2pg1-bKSlNKa4Ur2cQs4zFRs0Sbb7KgpTlch0oDXmIbfGcOqqsAc5o6J0vaUv7vYHQRYsaIFYh5vokZXJof8O5ZhNLNMJCtnDdLcVtHSh50ZvANcVGs_xAF5CIQjtPS5lIfSO1xLvg/s200/energizer-battery.jpg" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Recycling your batteries can help reduce
mining of materials for battery production, as can buying rechargeable
batteries. Furthermore, buying <a href="http://www.energizer.com/batteries/rechargeable-batteries/Pages/default.aspx">rechargeable
batteries</a> can also save you a lot of money. A pair of rechargeable AA
batteries costs about four times as much as a two single-use AA batteries, but
you can use your rechargeable batteries hundreds of times!</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">What
is a battery?</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></span></b> </div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Simply put, a battery is a portable
source of energy that produces electricity by chemical reaction. The amount of
electricity a battery produces varies widely depending on the type and amount
of materials used to construct the battery.</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">How
does it work?</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A battery is made up of one or more
“cells” which comprise two different metals (electrodes) connected by wire on
one end, and in contact with an electrolyte solution on the other. One electrode
has an excess of electrons (a negative charge) and one has a deficit of
electrons (a positive charge). The chemical reaction between the metals and the
solution causes electrons to travel from the negative terminal to the positive
terminal, producing electricity.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyyp_sb3RaCUzwWGg7hde_Bse3NclTEwuxFLJ849wtT83Z4oOl8npImmy2rilwf-OesF22T2p8sj5yz-uXCKyBe1naPnDpVCrY_LBiBg3vVLVNLxt-QXI6Sgdr0FeDyR8BAhCMMWNoUe8/s1600/battery_encarta.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyyp_sb3RaCUzwWGg7hde_Bse3NclTEwuxFLJ849wtT83Z4oOl8npImmy2rilwf-OesF22T2p8sj5yz-uXCKyBe1naPnDpVCrY_LBiBg3vVLVNLxt-QXI6Sgdr0FeDyR8BAhCMMWNoUe8/s320/battery_encarta.JPG" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"> </span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Common
Batteries</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A battery will either be wet-cell, where
the electrolyte solution is liquid (as in a car battery), or dry-cell, where
the electrolyte solution is a paste. Batteries fall into several sub-groups,
based on chemical composition. The
performance and life of the battery will vary by manufacturer, but batteries
with the same basic chemical composition share many characteristics.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><span lang="EN-US"><b>Lead-acid</b></span></i><span lang="EN-US"><b> </b>batteries are your traditional car batteries. They are also used in
other applications where weight and size are relatively unimportant, like
emergency lighting systems and wheelchairs. Lead-acid batteries actually have a
liquid electrolyte solution, so are heavy and must be treated carefully.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><span lang="EN-US"><b>Alkaline</b></span></i><span lang="EN-US"><b> </b>batteries are most commonly found in the traditional sizes of AA,
AAA, C, D, etc. These batteries come in both disposable and rechargeable forms,
the disposable kind being the cheapest. The rechargeable version tends to have
a low-discharge rate (producing less power at a time) so is best used in
low-energy devices like clocks.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><span lang="EN-US"><b>Nickel-metal
hydride</b></span></i><span lang="EN-US"> (NiMH) batteries are also available is
traditional sizes (AA, C, D). They are rechargeable and have a high-discharge
rate, so are good for use in electronic devices like digital cameras. They are
now used in hybrid cars instead of lead-acid batteries because of their lighter
weight and smaller size.</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOmJEld_dR2ViG84cGl8Dud0VG96NQrAfANHSDefJb_ODWbd4cpzpa4RuZRb-o1-fvMb9Yc8kACVAFUuPglBbmoHqM_ngOaWLPOTn2tq9t3v6skqr4Z9U7rmK5leva__LSWoHTVRTlQSM/s1600/Battery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOmJEld_dR2ViG84cGl8Dud0VG96NQrAfANHSDefJb_ODWbd4cpzpa4RuZRb-o1-fvMb9Yc8kACVAFUuPglBbmoHqM_ngOaWLPOTn2tq9t3v6skqr4Z9U7rmK5leva__LSWoHTVRTlQSM/s320/Battery.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><span lang="EN-US"><b>Lithium-ion</b></span></i><span lang="EN-US"> batteries are mostly used in cell phones, laptop, and notebook
computers. They are lightweight and rechargeable, but can also be fragile. Lithium-ion
polymer (LiPo) batteries are pretty much the same, but can be packaged in a
wider variety of sizes and shapes.</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i><span lang="EN-US"><b>Nickel-cadmium</b></span></i><span lang="EN-US"> (NiCad) batteries have a long shelf life and a high discharge rate,
but low energy density. They are often used in 2-way radios, power tools, and
professional cameras. These batteries are, however, quite toxic and <i>must </i>be disposed of properly. NiMH
batteries are largely replacing NiCad batteries in consumer products.</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><i><span lang="EN-US">Button</span></i><span lang="EN-US"> </span></b><span lang="EN-US">batteries are small, disposable batteries most commonly made using
zinc or lithium. You’ll find them in wristwatches, calculators, and other small
electronic devices.</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Recharging</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcWRyeViURjGRQ9mNGWQps6D_Oo6p09ngEOOzrY6NUMyvpkPhlbbelA0ayobFS-bGG0SY8A3XKRL5P3gkLLWXRwsCT0cTSvsX9Scdh4VujEa7zL6p0tbAQEZEUPwLXEYJjB53DP0glGZE/s1600/rechargeable-batteries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcWRyeViURjGRQ9mNGWQps6D_Oo6p09ngEOOzrY6NUMyvpkPhlbbelA0ayobFS-bGG0SY8A3XKRL5P3gkLLWXRwsCT0cTSvsX9Scdh4VujEa7zL6p0tbAQEZEUPwLXEYJjB53DP0glGZE/s200/rechargeable-batteries.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Recharging reverses the chemical
reaction in the battery, allowing the electricity-producing reaction to happen
over and over again. The battery can keep producing electricity until it
eventually wears out. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A rechargeable battery has a limited
number of charge cycles. It is not an exact number, but the following table can
give you a rough guideline of what to expect from different types of batteries:</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBABeEXv-NU0J3pZNPtYaBu_QfSxmp-j1XPF1hUAZi0iZ-HJsd45aR2plb7R2YMV_yxORcJoxwewOq3Jb2UfUcmkzbmWQzhg63WL_TYUoaK6G_KIwhwvjOnTJfk45e9wStaMOa-Dv7Dg8/s1600/Battery+Lify+Cycles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBABeEXv-NU0J3pZNPtYaBu_QfSxmp-j1XPF1hUAZi0iZ-HJsd45aR2plb7R2YMV_yxORcJoxwewOq3Jb2UfUcmkzbmWQzhg63WL_TYUoaK6G_KIwhwvjOnTJfk45e9wStaMOa-Dv7Dg8/s640/Battery+Lify+Cycles.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">*These are average numbers and may
vary depending on manufacturers, as well as the use the battery will undergo.</span></i></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">From the purchase of a battery to its
eventual expiration, the life of the battery and amount of use you get can vary
widely depending on the type of battery, storage, and usage. How you use your
batteries can either extend or diminish the life of the battery.</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To get the most out of your batteries,
follow a few easy steps:</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Use the right type of battery for the
device.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Turn off devices when they aren’t being
used.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">For items that are used infrequently,
remove batteries between uses.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">For rechargeable batteries, don’t leave
them on the charger once they’ve been fully charged; they lose a percentage of
their capacity if left on the charger too long.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Store unused batteries at or below room
temperature.</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Recycling</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwdD1AMgI2yEjBPMEtssA2Y57yYY1ZhfKTe2IVTsmnDDrucMmK2QzaEjLqJL0EF1URoeJnnNH9kN4i3ZKa7_TpO30DPyZZm2bbuah_O70e9Mvyk-ssaY97dF9guzKxLWKGa635IAhTfw0/s1600/Recycling-Batteries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwdD1AMgI2yEjBPMEtssA2Y57yYY1ZhfKTe2IVTsmnDDrucMmK2QzaEjLqJL0EF1URoeJnnNH9kN4i3ZKa7_TpO30DPyZZm2bbuah_O70e9Mvyk-ssaY97dF9guzKxLWKGa635IAhTfw0/s320/Recycling-Batteries.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Depending on the composition of the
battery, the recycling process varies. Other batteries are too small and
delicate for such recycling, so batteries like Lithium-ion are shredded and
turned into other products, like industrial lubricants. Other batteries are not
as valuable to reclaim, but still have components that are worth salvaging, and
remaking either into new batteries, or into other products.</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The
Recycling Process</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">First, the batteries are sorted by
chemistry. Each type of battery requires a different process to separate and
reconstitute the individual components.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In the case of <b>lead-acid batteries </b>acid solution, the plastic, lead and other
components are all separated. The lead is melted, purified, and remolded for
use in new batteries. The acid solution is neutralized, filtered, and
reconstituted to use in new battery cells. The plastic is also refurbished and
made into new battery casings.</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ0yH0sAk0NnGGm0frZmCPnnmwHd0WttcmLnjM3jMx9qHXcYvQZwa1fSKs7twGANS-9OgpUjIYlrZAUe_UmIL7xlKPk5TVpFE7iX3DRfSVzVKX8ycjx_U-qWy9x5JrFpD-WY_vuGYBnVo/s1600/hopperbatteries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ0yH0sAk0NnGGm0frZmCPnnmwHd0WttcmLnjM3jMx9qHXcYvQZwa1fSKs7twGANS-9OgpUjIYlrZAUe_UmIL7xlKPk5TVpFE7iX3DRfSVzVKX8ycjx_U-qWy9x5JrFpD-WY_vuGYBnVo/s320/hopperbatteries.jpg" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Lead-acid batteries have been
consistently recycled for decades, thanks to the organization of the auto
industry in reclaiming used batteries. Between 98% and 99% of lead-acid car
batteries are recycled and remade into new batteries.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">For other battery types, the components
are also separated, and in some cases remade into new batteries, but can also
be made into other products. <b>Lithium</b>
batteries, for example, are frozen with nitrogen to neutralize the lithium,
before the batteries are crushed and shredded. The lithium is then separated
and rendered non-reactive before being sold to produce lubricating greases. The
cobalt in the battery is also separated and sold for reuse.</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-b1Pkd9gwfeANHX8u77L1J_XAmnJv1oUkcQj0U-vbWMCxgLfAliU_-D7l1laFcl_ccq5j6YpyIbAb3BbeJoAML1FQFbG5Tcp2NnBjlZSaniROkLMg_M_8omkv23sd2XMJ_0wvL7NlQTQ/s1600/25-recycling-process.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-b1Pkd9gwfeANHX8u77L1J_XAmnJv1oUkcQj0U-vbWMCxgLfAliU_-D7l1laFcl_ccq5j6YpyIbAb3BbeJoAML1FQFbG5Tcp2NnBjlZSaniROkLMg_M_8omkv23sd2XMJ_0wvL7NlQTQ/s640/25-recycling-process.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Where
can I recycle my batteries?</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Many retailers will accept batteries for
recycling that have been purchased in-house, and more and more retailers and
depots now take batteries for recycling.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To find out how and where to recycle
your batteries, check out: </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://rcbc.bc.ca/education/retailer-take-back">http://rcbc.bc.ca/education/retailer-take-back</a></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.regionalrecycling.ca/">www.regionalrecycling.ca</a>
</span></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In Canada, the annual recycling rate of
batteries (other than car batteries) was less than 20% as of 2009. The good
news is that Canada has the infrastructure to process and recycle all of the
batteries that Canadians use each year.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7FCAlYiY0-_6ivL01pbcwj_7dJoDRZhlfp4_Sq73Nq4W3hZ3v9VggQvHj_wmirqtioczsaXIt3D4r7130vTE6vybr8MkGZsY0PdQPOR-4Rk2ETWJzB041cLnRzIudaE9E_QJm_2rvA1o/s1600/recyclechart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7FCAlYiY0-_6ivL01pbcwj_7dJoDRZhlfp4_Sq73Nq4W3hZ3v9VggQvHj_wmirqtioczsaXIt3D4r7130vTE6vybr8MkGZsY0PdQPOR-4Rk2ETWJzB041cLnRzIudaE9E_QJm_2rvA1o/s1600/recyclechart.jpg" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span lang="EN-US">Sources: <a href="http://www.odec.ca/projects/2006/glaz6j2/battery_info.htm">ODEC</a>, </span><a href="http://articles.info/Technology&Science/ConsumerElectronics/the-distinction-and-significance-of-2032-types-battery/">Technology & Science</a>, <a href="http://ezeliving.com/2012/06/17/which-brand-of-aa-batteries-last-the-longest-video/">EZE Living</a>, <a href="http://lifeofearth.org/recycling/batteries-recycling">Life of Earth</a>, <a href="http://www.tonolli.ca/recycling-batteries">Tonolli</a>, <a href="http://themoneytrack.com/saving-money/are-rechargeable-batteries-worth-the-cost/">The Money Track</a>, <a href="http://www.rawmaterials.com/products-services/">Raw Materials</a>, <a href="http://www.ec.gc.ca/Publications/C2F55D78-072A-4ED3-ACAA-DB4B4FE5B991%5CCanadianConsumerBatteryBaselineStudyFinalReport.pdf">ec.gc.ca</a>, <a href="http://www.ecoevaluator.com/lifestyle/recycling/proper-disposal-of-batteries.html">Eco Evaluator</a>, <a href="http://inventors.about.com/od/bstartinventions/ss/How-A-Battery-Works.htm">Inventors</a>, <a href="http://www.ehow.com/about_5415343_alkaline-vs-nimh-batteries.html">E How</a>, <a href="http://batteryuniversity.com/learn/article/whats_the_best_battery">Battery University</a>, <a href="http://buychargeall.com/cellphonebatterychargertips/">Buy Chargeall</a>, <a href="http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/eng/labour/fire_protection/policies_standards/guidelines/safe_storage.shtml">HRSDC</a>, <a href="http://recupyl.com/44-used-batteries-recycling-plant.html">Recupyl</a>, <a href="http://earth911.com/recycling/automotive/car-batteries/">Earth 911</a></span></div>
<br />
<br />Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-6038633750889960582012-10-30T13:29:00.000-07:002012-10-30T13:32:41.978-07:00Solar Power for a Sustainable City<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Rwfq2K0SB66mYbkvegVjPc3jfGkTcPCo8-g-visCzPnF2Vg6m_sUiWtxIllYa_kzF6F4i-dSeFRTW8olmaxH9Obm9-3c7IpKXlK9pK3dKSuBjEl0ywdd0gMRxifxizcZdxvTkAgTC-I/s1600/seville.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6Rwfq2K0SB66mYbkvegVjPc3jfGkTcPCo8-g-visCzPnF2Vg6m_sUiWtxIllYa_kzF6F4i-dSeFRTW8olmaxH9Obm9-3c7IpKXlK9pK3dKSuBjEl0ywdd0gMRxifxizcZdxvTkAgTC-I/s200/seville.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Imagine a city where all electrical energy is from clean,
renewable resources. Does this sound
like an implausible idea? Well, this
vision of the future is already in existence today and in one of the most
famous cities in the world – Seville, Spain!
Seville is the fourth largest city in Spain and has been in the global
eye for millennia. It is where Ferdinand
Magellan began the first voyage around the world and where the famous opera </span><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Barber of Seville</i><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> calls home. However, what makes it remarkable today is
that it is almost entirely powered by solar energy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">How It Works</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Seville gets over 3,000 hours of sunlight each year, which
makes it a perfect place for solar energy.
The process works by focusing large mirrors called heliostats on a
receiver which heats water into steam as it travels into a drum. This is used to propel massive turbines
creating electrical energy before being condensed back into water and beginning
the trip all over again.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnGw0a5VijKI7k3JitwK0Eia9hQH7ox3AoJnBdadKNlzeEUCeLcXZotpnPIUhkaEs6Pb3IxWK4-wyUGE8EO52aLPI33eBk0dQedd1dRfwUNqKWa3C9sULpt2AuI3rIrZoezOc68r4e7Jw/s1600/power_tower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnGw0a5VijKI7k3JitwK0Eia9hQH7ox3AoJnBdadKNlzeEUCeLcXZotpnPIUhkaEs6Pb3IxWK4-wyUGE8EO52aLPI33eBk0dQedd1dRfwUNqKWa3C9sULpt2AuI3rIrZoezOc68r4e7Jw/s640/power_tower.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 200%;">
<span style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><i>A
solar tower power plant</i></span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">The Solucar Complex</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Solucar Complex is where Seville will get all of its
energy needs from. It uses a wide range
of technologies including solar towers and troughs. As newer technologies are discovered, they
have been incorporated into each new plant within the complex. Its construction began in 2004 and the first
tower, the PS10, began operations in 2007.<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6628117816664821862" name="_GoBack"></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">History</span><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqU7owwuSWKV00BUzLoBtSXmQwIMu9tZ3kAX90_is9UDidITMYiQFAJD2HEKUS5N0mPHkBZl_juObpaFYn0bg8UWuIuQLr_Y-ngqoQbsU4YvUjZbn_ncGzORAcctmCsLr48Jj6qjGknA/s1600/spain-seville.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwqU7owwuSWKV00BUzLoBtSXmQwIMu9tZ3kAX90_is9UDidITMYiQFAJD2HEKUS5N0mPHkBZl_juObpaFYn0bg8UWuIuQLr_Y-ngqoQbsU4YvUjZbn_ncGzORAcctmCsLr48Jj6qjGknA/s200/spain-seville.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">While the current Solucar Complex generates 180 megawatts (MW)
of power, it has been a process to get there.
In addition, the total scope of the complex is only halfway built! By the end of completion, it will have the
capacity to generate power all of Seville, a city at almost 750,000 people.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The PS10 Solar Power Plant was the first completed portion
of the complex, finished in 2007.
Capable of generating 11 MW or approximately 3% of Seville’s power
needs. This plant consists of 624
mirrors that heat water in a central unit and is the world’s first commercial
solar tower. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">However, this was nowhere near enough for true power
independence and a progression toward renewable sources. The PS20 Solar Power Plant was added in 2009,
capable of 20 MW. It has double the
number of mirrors and represents the 2<sup>nd</sup> generation of solar
technology which means that the energy conversion rate is higher as well. It is the most powerful solar tower in the
world.</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7JDgL537pxiULv4Z84EJUUDo1Oh_XMGRtDBGi4Gm70DMjkgT4KwrZVqpACNwDsPODgDHja4w1TH1PqC7G7IzUK6vNxDtGA3GK3nxWqXzz-IzsHj2qFJ7aJ_Pa8Vw-cdoTbrHzM6CWT_A/s1600/solucar06.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7JDgL537pxiULv4Z84EJUUDo1Oh_XMGRtDBGi4Gm70DMjkgT4KwrZVqpACNwDsPODgDHja4w1TH1PqC7G7IzUK6vNxDtGA3GK3nxWqXzz-IzsHj2qFJ7aJ_Pa8Vw-cdoTbrHzM6CWT_A/s640/solucar06.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="line-height: 200%;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The
PS10 and PS20 towers</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Combined, these towers account for 10% of Seville’s power
requirements. As of 2010, the
construction of Solnova 1, 3, and 4 have massively boosted the complex’s
capacity. These are trough style
parabolic mirrors that track the sun as it moves across the daytime sky. Each of the three plants generates 50 MW,
boosting the total capacity of the current complex to 180 MW or 60% of
Seville’s power needs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Future</span><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There are still three more plants that are set to be
completed in 2013. There is the AZ20, a
solar tower similar to the PS20 that will generate 20 MW of power. There are also the Solova 2 and 5 trough
plants, each with another 50 MW like their predecessors. In all, this brings the total to Seville’s
required 300 MW of power, all from solar energy!</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivZfrjNMYEryHg_6R0Em7f3v5LZycAPTMl3CXgEj1HUKWjvLPuW2vjPB8DKkOaoQSqsveGfZbtjuW9lmiJgQZs3y3vsl0gnkO-YopTGlZG4J2tmilcnwYfhu9NSiyExjPln7JZkV3ptSM/s1600/800PX-~1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivZfrjNMYEryHg_6R0Em7f3v5LZycAPTMl3CXgEj1HUKWjvLPuW2vjPB8DKkOaoQSqsveGfZbtjuW9lmiJgQZs3y3vsl0gnkO-YopTGlZG4J2tmilcnwYfhu9NSiyExjPln7JZkV3ptSM/s640/800PX-~1.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="line-height: 200%;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The
Solnova plants in front of the PS10 and PS20 towers</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: large;">Benefits</span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Solucar Complex is responsible</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> for the creation of 1,000
jobs in construction and another 300 in operating the various plants.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It is estimated that over the course of the
complex’s 25 year life expectancy, it will prevent 600,000 tonnes of carbon
dioxide from entering the atmosphere per year.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This amount of carbon dioxide reduction would be similar to the amount
that could be processed by almost 1.5 million trees!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Abengoa Solar</span><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Abengoa Solar have been involved in the construction and
operation of the Solucar Complex since its inception. They operate a total of five complexes
throughout Spain and one in Algeria.
They are involved in the expansion of these current complexes as well as
new projects in the United States and United Arab Emirates. They are also involved in complex operations
in Chile and Mexico as joint projects with other companies.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The Green Revolution</span><u><o:p></o:p></u></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4rTC7Qp5gCM2eqkCUbTFSgTwhBkyRlRKi24KH9Vjgk3kT9Cy79-NuIacgHOhLC-F_AnvaRNkfIY3rbx_RdoCLXhgJ3k-hALedUYOXWgsZqpqTfs4BcC57AV2aIEKPziXP_NuuP46BpzU/s1600/green_city.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4rTC7Qp5gCM2eqkCUbTFSgTwhBkyRlRKi24KH9Vjgk3kT9Cy79-NuIacgHOhLC-F_AnvaRNkfIY3rbx_RdoCLXhgJ3k-hALedUYOXWgsZqpqTfs4BcC57AV2aIEKPziXP_NuuP46BpzU/s320/green_city.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="320" /></a><u><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Many other cities all over the world are joining the
revolution to attain their energy needs from 100% renewable, non-polluting
resources and it doesn’t just stop at solar.
Wind, hydro, and other energy alternatives are constantly being
researched and improved to increase energy conversion rates and to make it
affordable. This is also the plan
followed by new urban planners for new cities and growth. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">What makes Seville so unique is that they are actively
building infrastructure for their city rather than buying offsets from other
areas. Essentially, their power grid is
unique for their citizens. As the
sustainable movement continues to evolve, so too will new ideas on how to make
it possible.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Sources: <a href="http://www.abengoasolar.com/web/en/nuestras_plantas/plantas_en_operacion/espana/Solnova_1_3_y_4_plantas_cilindroparabolicas_de_50_megavatios_cada_una" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="line-height: 200%;">Abengoa
Solar</span></a><span style="line-height: 200%;">, </span><a href="http://www.andalucia.com/spain/statistics/population.htm" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="line-height: 200%;">Andalucia</span></a><span style="line-height: 200%;">,
</span><a href="http://www.estelasolar.eu/fileadmin/ESTELAdocs/documents/events/3RD_STEI_FORUM/Presentations/3.3_Michael_Geyer_Abengoa_Solar_ESTELA_3rd_STEI_Forum_15Feb2012.pdf" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="line-height: 200%;">Estela
Solar</span></a><span style="line-height: 200%;">, </span><a href="http://www.nrel.gov/csp/troughnet/pdfs/2007/osuna_ps10-20_power_towers.pdf" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="line-height: 200%;">NREL</span></a><span style="line-height: 200%;">,
</span><a href="http://www.eere.energy.gov/basics/renewable_energy/power_tower.html" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="line-height: 200%;">EERE</span></a><span style="line-height: 200%;">,
</span><a href="http://www.power-technology.com/projects/Seville-Solar-Tower/" style="line-height: 200%;"><span style="line-height: 200%;">Power-Technology</span></a><span style="line-height: 200%;">,
</span><span style="line-height: 200%;"><a href="http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/mar2007/2007-03-30-02.asp" style="line-height: 200%;">ENS-Newswire</a>, </span></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.indigoguide.co.uk/spain/seville.htm" style="line-height: 115%;">Indigo Guide</a><span style="line-height: 115%;">, </span><a href="http://www.destination360.com/europe/spain/seville" style="line-height: 115%;">Destination 360</a>, </span><a href="http://bytelib.com/china-transformation-into-green-city/" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Bytelib</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 200%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-30904904376005622622012-10-10T11:48:00.000-07:002012-10-10T12:00:23.291-07:00Vertical Farming: The Rise of Food Sustainability<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">You may or may not have heard about
a new type of farming called “vertical farming”; yes, it’s exactly what it
sounds like! Vertical farmers utilize unique space by farming upwards, in and
on top of skyscrapers and tall buildings. Vertical farming is a great way towards
a more sustainable alternative to regular crop farming because it means you can
buy locally grown food while not using up any land. This can reduce emissions
created from food products that travel long distances and, with an abundance of
buildings, it’s possible to have hundreds of thousands pounds of vegetables and
herbs produced annually and sold locally!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Dickson Despommier, a professor at Columbia
University, describes here why vertical farming could, and should, change the world: </span></span></div>
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<u><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/1clRcxZS52s?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px; text-align: start;">(Learn more at </span><a href="http://www.verticalfarm.com/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">verticalfarm.com</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: start;">) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">With Vancouver vying to be one of
the <a href="https://vancouver.ca/green-vancouver/a-bright-green-future.aspx">greenest cities</a> in the world by 2020</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">,
vertical farming can be one of those ideas that really puts a city over the
top. Enter <a href="http://www.alterrus.ca/">Alterrus Systems Inc.</a>, a
Vancouver based company that was formed for the very purpose of creating
North America’s first ever “<a href="http://www.alterrus.ca/verticrop/the-technology/">VertiCrop</a>” farm. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">VertiCrop
is a technological innovation that revolutionized farming by allowing
vegetables and herbs to grow vertically without any soil, pesticides, or
herbicides. VertiCrop can change the way we farm by providing fresh produce to
local communities quicker than ever before. The first-ever VertiCrop farm in
North America will be located on the roof of a parking lot located in downtown
Vancouver and will produce around 150,000 pounds of green produce annually. The
food will then packaged and sold locally under the brand name “Local Garden”.</span><br />
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<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<u style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A Problem of Sustainability</u></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The world’s population is increasing. But we are running out of land for farming. 70% of all fresh water on the planet is used for agriculture. yet the runoff is unusable due to contaminants in the soil. To sustainably create the amount of food the world will require, farming needs to be modified. We require a combination of solutions and a paradigm shift in how we grow and distribute healthy food.</span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>The World Needs to Grow Up</u></span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Vertical farming addresses the problems of increased demand for sustainable, nutritious food. Vast areas of underutilized urban space, such as empty buildings and rooftops, can be used to grow fresh produce at or near to where it is to be consumed. Contrast this with the status quo that ships produce to grocers from an average of 1,500 miles away. Transporting produce over such long distances not only generates carbon emissions, but a dependence on foreign oil. In addition, closed-loop vertical farming environments don’t require the use of harmful pesticides and herbicides, which totally eliminates contaminated runoff. And with only the minimal amount of water needed to grow a variety of fresh, healthy produce, this sustainable farming method helps conserve our planet’s most precious resource. </span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>- <a href="http://www.alterrus.ca/verticrop/why-vertical/">Alterrus</a></i></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">In the United Kingdom, the team at </span><a href="http://www.verticalveg.org.uk/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Vertical Veg</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> are teaching people how
to grow vertical farms themselves, right on their balconies! By following their
blog or attending classes, individuals can learn how to grow food to feed
themselves, their families, and more. Depending how much space each person has,
they can grow as little as a one plant to as much as the creators themselves! Vertical
Veg reports how much they grow by weight and dollar value so readers can really
see the difference this sustainable innovation can make. Check out their </span><a href="http://www.verticalveg.org.uk/my-growing-diary/growing-diary-2011/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Growing
Diaries</a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"> to learn more.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">If you're interested in growing your own food try searching local information to ensure you grow the proper crops at the appropriate times of year for the greatest success. Be sure to review your building and city bylaws as well to ensure you are operating within your limits! </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">There are also many other sustainable agricultural projects popping up around the world so if you're interested in participating be sure to keep an eye out. In Vancouver the </span><a href="http://strathconagardens.ca/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Strathcona Community Gardens</span></a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"> and </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://1sole.wordpress.com/">SOLEfood Farm</a> are doing their part to support the greenest city</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;">. Restaurants such as the </span><a href="http://www.straight.com/article-779026/vancouver/local-and-sustainable-forage-restaurant-open-october" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Forage</span></a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"> are also going green by using local foods, emitting zero-waste, and installing solar panels. There are also </span><a href="http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/04/5-must-try-food-trucks-in-vancouver-canada/" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">food trucks</span></a><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 18px;"> that are being set up that sell food products made from local ingredients and utilize renewable energy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Learn more about sustainable eating with <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/06/farm-to-table.html">Farm-To-Table: Local Sustainability</a> and <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/09/what-is-sustainable-agriculture.html">Sustainable Agriculture - what it is and how you can support it</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Sources: <a href="http://www.alterrus.ca/news/press-releases/alterrus-begins-construction-and-installation-of-north-americas-first-vertical-urban-farm-in-downtown-vancouver/">Alterrus</a></span>, <a href="http://www.economist.com/node/17647627"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The
Economist</span></a>, <a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/insight/article/1249959--vancouver-company-installing-vertical-garden-in-parking-garage"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The Star News</span></a>, <a href="http://www.straight.com/article-779026/vancouver/local-and-sustainable-forage-restaurant-open-october"><span style="line-height: 115%;">The Georgia Straight News</span></a>, <a href="http://www.gadling.com/2012/10/04/5-must-try-food-trucks-in-vancouver-canada/"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Gadling</span></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:VertiCrop.jpg"><span style="line-height: 115%;">VertiCrop
JPEG</span></a>, <a href="http://verticrop.com/"><span style="line-height: 115%;">VertiCrop.com</span></a>,
<a href="http://1sole.wordpress.com/"><span style="line-height: 115%;">1 Sole</span></a>,
<a href="http://strathconagardens.ca/"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Strathcona
Gardens</span></a>, <a href="https://vancouver.ca/green-vancouver/a-bright-green-future.aspx"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Vancouver</span></a>, <a href="http://www.verticalveg.org.uk/">Vertical
Veg</a></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-21453828963502803532012-10-04T09:44:00.003-07:002012-10-04T09:47:53.913-07:00Greencyclopedia Staff Picks<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Check out our top 10 staff picks or read our <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/10/readers-choice-our-top-10-articles-of.html">previous post</a> for your reader's choice favourites! Click the links to read more.</span><br />
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<b style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/09/what-is-sustainable-agriculture.html">Sustainable Agriculture -what it is and how you can support it</a></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2011/09/28-ways-to-build-green-lifestyle.html">28 Ways to Build a Green Lifestyle</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/06/farm-to-table.html">Farm-To-Table: Local Sustainability</a></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/02/wind-energy-in-home.html">Wind Energy in the Home</a></b></span></div>
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Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-11655581476952110432012-10-03T15:28:00.001-07:002012-10-03T15:29:04.205-07:00Reader's Choice: Our Top 10 Articles of All Time<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Here are our top 10 articles as shown by you, our readers! Click the titles to read more.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/04/top-10-technology-advances-in-renewable.html">Top 10 Technology Advances in Renewable Energy</a></b></span><br />
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Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-72166719623119020732012-09-24T11:36:00.000-07:002012-09-24T11:39:54.612-07:00Sustainable Agriculture - what it is and how you can support it<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">When most people think of sustainable
agriculture they think of agriculture that is less harmful to the environment - while you can’t have sustainable agriculture that isn’t environmentally
sustainable, there can certainly be much more to it. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sustainable
agriculture is agriculture that is practiced in a way that doesn’t impact
future generations’ ability to grow food.</span></b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">
</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In order for this to happen, practices used must be sustainable in all
of three categories:</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Environmental,
Social, and Economic.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="color: #38761d; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: x-large;">Environmental Sustainability</span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Agriculture is heavily reliant on the
environment in order to be productive - a healthy environment will produce more food
as well as maintaining reserves of wildlife and native plant species. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There are endless opportunities for
improving environmental sustainability in agriculture. Innovation continues to improve upon
unsustainable methods, replacing them with newer, sounder practices – or, in
some cases, leading us to old methods that can be adapted for modern
agriculture.</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Here are a few ways that agricultural
facilities can improve their environmental sustainability:</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglNB20yOYjQjeyJVuwTiW2pFaAO57DNGfxl0B_mp1b2n4C5MEOoU-bj1MUQrHx1SIv3y9q36Hgv_pdQ8hoGCSYwjfjusopDF9upkhibpXH7XRLe25fQdU6_iDvdq3zO_H7SEQlQerPgmY/s1600/covcrop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglNB20yOYjQjeyJVuwTiW2pFaAO57DNGfxl0B_mp1b2n4C5MEOoU-bj1MUQrHx1SIv3y9q36Hgv_pdQ8hoGCSYwjfjusopDF9upkhibpXH7XRLe25fQdU6_iDvdq3zO_H7SEQlQerPgmY/s320/covcrop.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Soil
amendments and cover crops:</span> </span></b><span lang="EN-US">Healthy soil doesn’t
require as many chemical inputs. Adding
organic matter to soil, such as compost or manure, adds nutrients and roughage
without the chemicals. As well, certain
cover crops can add nutrients to the soil, such as nitrogen-fixing clover.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Wildlife
habitat:</span> </span></b><span lang="EN-US">Preserving sensitive habitats (such as
fish-bearing streams) and breaking up cultivated areas with wildlife reserves
can help to minimize farming’s effects on wildlife populations. Protecting habitat can be as simple as
setting up a fence to keep cattle out of a stream. Hedgerows can provide
valuable bird habitat.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Non-renewable
energy inputs:</span> </span></b><span lang="EN-US">Sometimes it’s unavoidable to use
non-renewable energy sources or other non-farm inputs, but whenever possible,
farming should be a closed energy loop.
Everything used on the farm should be from the farm. For example, manure from dairy cows can be used
to fertilize the corn that the same animals will be eating. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUT6dYgPAIAFsmk7en0Ii2lxQxm7kSKooiVNcbdQtJEXw_MrqYYndySfmsO40rFTBDKvH82K4ok1kWPm5-_sdxuF_TcoAaZ9u4x3VAPwT05IoFvkZmYctXhf5BI7vc1nERT9ANBC68QmM/s1600/ladybug-bugs-insects-aphids-beneficial-plants-peppers-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUT6dYgPAIAFsmk7en0Ii2lxQxm7kSKooiVNcbdQtJEXw_MrqYYndySfmsO40rFTBDKvH82K4ok1kWPm5-_sdxuF_TcoAaZ9u4x3VAPwT05IoFvkZmYctXhf5BI7vc1nERT9ANBC68QmM/s320/ladybug-bugs-insects-aphids-beneficial-plants-peppers-.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Integrated
<st1:place w:st="on">Pest</st1:place> Management (IPM):</span> </span></b><span lang="EN-US">Integrated pest management is a different way of looking at
controlling agricultural pests. Instead
of using a pesticide, farmers seek out other, often inventive, ways of dealing
with pests. The best known IPM strategy
is the use of ladybugs to control aphids.
Native ladybug species are purchased and released into fields, where
they prey upon plant-destroying aphids.
No pesticides are necessary.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In <st1:state w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">British
Columbia</st1:place></st1:state>, farmers can create an <a href="http://www.bcac.bc.ca/ardcorp/program/environmental-farm-plan-program">Environmental
Farm Plan</a> with the help of the BC Agricultural Council and the BC
Agricultural Research and Development Corporation. Farmers that complete the program can even be
eligible for funding to help implement the plan on their farms.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">Social Sustainability</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Social sustainability refers to how easily
a farmer coexists with their neighbours and other stakeholders in the
area. Simple consideration of neighbours
and socially sustainable farming practices will help to ensure the farmer will
be able to stay farming.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Light
pollution: </span></span></b><span lang="EN-US">Greenhouse facilities and other
practices can produce a lot of light, and can keep neighbours up at night. Usually, the solution is as simple as blinds
for the interior of the greenhouse.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ3lUUS1BvvfcpO9rnz7Aq7B3IrqsjkoNz9RP1Datma_Q5feAc2aYyWwp6LX8NRe3rwPFeFLD2tHlCLutL4aZP0BBMIQvJAlvPqznos0yE_0iPPmom9P8p6n0mOH5t6DwR8FFbhJ0eb6Y/s1600/Sekon-Cannon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ3lUUS1BvvfcpO9rnz7Aq7B3IrqsjkoNz9RP1Datma_Q5feAc2aYyWwp6LX8NRe3rwPFeFLD2tHlCLutL4aZP0BBMIQvJAlvPqznos0yE_0iPPmom9P8p6n0mOH5t6DwR8FFbhJ0eb6Y/s320/Sekon-Cannon.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Noise
pollution:</span></span></b><span lang="EN-US"> Certain agricultural practices can be
very noisy, such as propane sound cannons for bird control in blueberry fields. Using sound-free methods is best when it’s
possible. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Visual
Pollution:</span> </span></b><span lang="EN-US">A tidy farm enterprise is more pleasant
for everyone involved! Sometimes this
means keeping the farm property clear, and sometimes it means keeping shellfish
aquaculture floats out of sightlines from the ritzy hotel.<b> <o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCjyzcHb9Ex4wd32lJjTYEpZA1uFJavEyfKtwIR6CKaOXzjLvyqH4HbEDZS5SVugLe3cuTOXYNPC8P5sybBi5rLcWFN8tjxwnx0zBES5N48SqR9ECz-mz2-0ESkqK_1P5VNuAtWRj-ZSc/s1600/cattle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCjyzcHb9Ex4wd32lJjTYEpZA1uFJavEyfKtwIR6CKaOXzjLvyqH4HbEDZS5SVugLe3cuTOXYNPC8P5sybBi5rLcWFN8tjxwnx0zBES5N48SqR9ECz-mz2-0ESkqK_1P5VNuAtWRj-ZSc/s320/cattle.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Cultural
Sensitivity: </span> </span></b><span lang="EN-US">When agricultural endeavors are near to or on top of land that may
be culturally sensitive, extra care should be taken. For example, in certain areas Canadian First
Nations People may forage for certain plants on Crown land. Cattle should be excluded from grazing in
areas where culturally sensitive plants are growing at prime foraging times.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Animal
ethics:</span> </span></b><span lang="EN-US">Animal welfare is becoming a priority for
many people. Farmers who wish to ensure
their animals are treated in an ethical way can now enroll in programs such as
the <a href="http://www.spca.bc.ca/welfare/farm-animal-welfare/spca-certified/">BCSPCA
Certified Program</a>. <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">Economic Sustainability</span></span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Farmers must make money to keep farming
-it’s as simple as that. Any business
that doesn’t make money is one that won’t last long. Sometimes sustainability is a balancing act
between social or environmental sustainability and economic
sustainability. In order to maintain
high standards in other categories of sustainability,<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL7b0y4M4De57kE3nDeH1Y_EiSH1V3ocUtqNrqrjUtozsLk8KPUg3G9k_ZqNq3MaKbOFfweZqsIIE_kgNTiz3Tn_XVror6_busEMrP5l8F-9u0ayChAqkZD9yobZ6c8sk1xqmwtGuBF5U/s1600/agritourism-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhL7b0y4M4De57kE3nDeH1Y_EiSH1V3ocUtqNrqrjUtozsLk8KPUg3G9k_ZqNq3MaKbOFfweZqsIIE_kgNTiz3Tn_XVror6_busEMrP5l8F-9u0ayChAqkZD9yobZ6c8sk1xqmwtGuBF5U/s320/agritourism-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Secondary
sources of income: </span></span></b><span lang="EN-US">A secondary source of income
will give farmers the padding they need in order to make the right decisions
for environmental and social sustainability on their farm. The income source could be another job,
renting out portions of the property, agritourism, anything!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Labour
costs:</span> </span></b><span lang="EN-US">Unfortunately, labour costs for a lot of
sustainable practices are higher than their unsustainable counterparts. Farmers can help to offset these costs by
using <a href="http://www.wwoof.org/">Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms</a>,
or WWOOFers. WWOOFers travel from all
over the world to work on organic farms in return for room and board while they
are working. It’s a great opportunity to
see new countries and meet new people.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Marketing
costs: </span> </span></b><span lang="EN-US">Marketing
costs can seem daunting, especially for a small enterprise. Forming a farm co-operative and sharing costs
can help the small farmer get ahead. A
farm co-operative could even help share other costs, if all the farms in it
work together!<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="color: #38761d; font-size: x-large;">Organics and Sustainability</span></span><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Just because a food is labeled “Organic”
doesn’t mean it’s sustainable. Organic
crops can still be produced in an unsustainable manner, or shipped in from
unsustainable distances. Here are a few
things you can do to help make sure your produce is as sustainable as possible:</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTPmOTmK0NnJR7vAYVkDNrjz6qlN9oHQHJYq6hgxONRwP7xJM-wvyUHoZYPb_mtSIFACcunEBt-ihWaD5cvxW5buxqRpy1X7j1ptnxGcTzNuTMoxDfkbohKr373QgiPzjF32o3uasxguc/s1600/FarmersMarket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTPmOTmK0NnJR7vAYVkDNrjz6qlN9oHQHJYq6hgxONRwP7xJM-wvyUHoZYPb_mtSIFACcunEBt-ihWaD5cvxW5buxqRpy1X7j1ptnxGcTzNuTMoxDfkbohKr373QgiPzjF32o3uasxguc/s320/FarmersMarket.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Buy
local and seasonal</span></span></b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">.</span>
Produce that is grown in your area requires lower inputs to get to the
store/farmers’ market/restaurant, and by buying seasonal produce you’re more
likely to get produce that’s local.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">Know
your certifying bodies</span></span></b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: large;">.</span> Each piece of organic produce is certified,
and each certifying body has different regulations about what makes the produce
organic. By having a general idea which
bodies have regulations to ensure sustainable and ethical practices, you can
make educated decisions while shopping.
In <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:state w:st="on">British Columbia</st1:state></st1:place>,
check out the <a href="http://www.certifiedorganic.bc.ca/">Certified Organic
Association of BC</a>.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPfgAeyZSoF_5w5xc_iABnzng-R5Vi_I5ovRj13TJ1A77Q11GBGIo35N44b2RGgByjcPFjrq3SmQ5ImYehbFC6qVbKGL_3AycrDcTR7coFSENWGr3OcFaECtDxP4XjUkTOqGIcqnyrETw/s1600/organic-farm-chickens.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPfgAeyZSoF_5w5xc_iABnzng-R5Vi_I5ovRj13TJ1A77Q11GBGIo35N44b2RGgByjcPFjrq3SmQ5ImYehbFC6qVbKGL_3AycrDcTR7coFSENWGr3OcFaECtDxP4XjUkTOqGIcqnyrETw/s320/organic-farm-chickens.bmp" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Meet
your farmer.</span> </span></span></b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The best way to educate your self is to talk to the farmer! Buy farm-gate produce or shop at farmers’
markets whenever it’s possible. Ask the
farmer how they grow their crops. The
farmers that are passionate about sustainable practices will enthusiastically
share their knowledge.</span><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span lang="EN-US">Sources: </span><a href="http://www.epa.gov/opp00001/factsheets/ipm.htm">EPA</a>, </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.hobbyfarms.com/farm-marketing-and-management/starting-farmers-cooperative-group.aspx">Hobby
Farms</a>, </span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.humeseeds.com/covcrop.jpg">Hume
Seeds</a>, </span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.fridaydesign.com/images/thoughts/ladybug-bugs-insects-aphids-beneficial-plants-peppers-.jpg">Friday
Design</a>,</span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.banthecannons.com/Sekon-Cannon.jpg">Ban The Cannons</a>, </span></span><a href="http://www.in.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/GRP/NRCSWI00093.jpg" style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">NRCS</a>, <span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://static.ddmcdn.com/gif/agritourism-2.jpg">Agritourism</a>, </span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.magazinewood.co.uk/userimages/FarmersMarket.jpg">Farmers
Market</a>, </span></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://winerose.com/blog/category/local-farming/">Local Farming</a>, </span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Ballard_Farmers'_Market_-_vegetables.jpg">Market
Vegetables</a>, </span><span class="fn"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Agroecology</span></span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">: <span class="subtitle">Ecological Processes
in Sustainable Agriculture</span>.
Stephen R. Gliessman, Eric Engles, Robin Krieger, <st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on">Ann Arbor</st1:place></st1:city> Press, 2000</span></span></div>
Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-35678493551160710332012-09-05T15:52:00.000-07:002012-09-05T15:54:07.397-07:00Back To School - the green way!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNaoQEW4tEgmyd5QoXHNtLI044WUgJ5nCmDUC977z8u5ID5HENDhZWWy-6zPG3d1Tfft7KoxmcUtSFBCC4021zNK2NWFCJ-O02PnYnpJkCpUeZ7BBlodU_zdrXHJE_aGQTkFNmuw6PLcQ/s1600/BackToSchool.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNaoQEW4tEgmyd5QoXHNtLI044WUgJ5nCmDUC977z8u5ID5HENDhZWWy-6zPG3d1Tfft7KoxmcUtSFBCC4021zNK2NWFCJ-O02PnYnpJkCpUeZ7BBlodU_zdrXHJE_aGQTkFNmuw6PLcQ/s400/BackToSchool.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It’s that time of the year again - a brand new start of the school
year for students and their parents! Take this opportunity to introduce some new
practices into your daily life that can be more environmentally friendly. You
may even be able to save costs by switching to more effective and green alternatives
for the start of the new school year!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Green </span></b></span><b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Transportation</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;">Reducing your carbon footprint and making healthy choices</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Zyu6vw4v0hWaHOoQk0nuU7xQoT4RDO5a0f4w8EufO9XVA3jSeS2JUgk4JeVhTfjkYbBviKWbt-rk5V1wefiUiJOfhL6LW4XqmWkqRO2M6e0DIpZaXfFUQFMwXI9_QNWUXG_F9SVwbTg/s1600/Schoolbus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Zyu6vw4v0hWaHOoQk0nuU7xQoT4RDO5a0f4w8EufO9XVA3jSeS2JUgk4JeVhTfjkYbBviKWbt-rk5V1wefiUiJOfhL6LW4XqmWkqRO2M6e0DIpZaXfFUQFMwXI9_QNWUXG_F9SVwbTg/s200/Schoolbus.jpg" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To really make a difference and reduce your impact on the
environment, beginning this fall, do your best to reduce the amount you drive
your kids to and from school. One popular way is to enroll your children into a
bus program. School buses reduce a great amount of emissions, especially if
it’s a newer bus that is up to date with the current emission-reducing
standards. </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There’s also the possibility of carpool – either one of your neighbours can start carpooling kids from your neighbourhood or you can start your own carpool. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If your school does not offer a bus program, or if you just live
nearby, get your children to ride their bike or walk to school! A co-op walk team can help keep your kids safe by having groups walk together and alternating parent escorts if needed. </span></span><br />
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq0kKn4vsS0ZWRg5aZB5Cs0FQcvtJsYn7ZguH567TUHasvumNyuDesx4zl1jnD-PLKQSXZperQnW4CAfxE3LmXd9Rh3nq_fdArDSqdJl_ktGV7BuMe9Y4BXHqYg30W_r1A8gJdFUiduU8/s1600/kids-crossing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq0kKn4vsS0ZWRg5aZB5Cs0FQcvtJsYn7ZguH567TUHasvumNyuDesx4zl1jnD-PLKQSXZperQnW4CAfxE3LmXd9Rh3nq_fdArDSqdJl_ktGV7BuMe9Y4BXHqYg30W_r1A8gJdFUiduU8/s640/kids-crossing.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Eco Supplies</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Taking
inventory and reusing what you can<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Before deciding to go out and buy brand new school supplies for
your children, take some time to look at what you’re currently have and see if
anything can be reused. Why buy new pens and pencils when the old ones are
still usable? No need to buy a new
notebook just because a few pages have been used in one from last year, or
buying a new pencil case because the old one is out of style. Making smart,
economical decisions can go a long way in saving your money and reducing production
and waste emissions that comes from purchasing new supplies.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">If your children get hungry or thirsty, its better that they reach
for a reusable water bottle and plastic container instead of a disposable
plastic water bottle and plastic ziplock bag. Either plastic or aluminum,
reusable water bottles make for a much better alternative. Visit </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/product-reviews/eco-friendly-products/reusable-water-bottle-reviews/best-reusable-water-bottles#slide-1">Good Housekeeping</a></span><span lang="EN-US"> to
read the list of some of the best water bottles around. Also, make sure that
any water bottle purchased for reuse is BPA-free (Bisphenol A). There are also
alternatives to plastic containers, such as </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.snacktaxi.com/">SnackTAXI</a></span><span lang="EN-US">, who offer reusable food sacks. One
“snack-sack” can reduce the use of about 1000 plastic bags over its lifetime.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Buying new eco-friendly school supplies<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">When you have looked over what you have and you’ve decided that you
still need some more school supplies, try to lean towards the greener
alternative. Many major retailers are carrying recycled and renewable school
supplies such as recycled notebooks, paper and binders, and biodegradable
pencils. </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.papermategreen.net/ca-en/index.html">Paper Mate</a></span><span lang="EN-US"> is
offering biodegradable pencils that are offered at many major retailers, such
as Staples. There is also </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.ecojot.com/">Ecojot</a></span><span lang="EN-US">, who offer notebooks, journals, sketchbooks, and more made
entirely from post-consumer waste. When looking for a new backpack, look for an
environmentally as well as child friendly backpack, one that’s made from
recycled material and is padded to prevent back pain. You can check out </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.theultimategreenstore.com/s-224-bags-backpacks.aspx">The Ultimate
Green Store</a></span><span lang="EN-US"> or </span><span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.ecocentricbags.com/eco-friendly-backpacks.html">Ecocentric Bags</a></span><span lang="EN-US"> for
an idea on some cool backpacks being offered.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Most of the money spent on supplies will be towards new clothes
that children are always in need of. If your kids don’t mind, wearing
hand-me-down clothing from friends and family or thrift stores can be one of
the ways to save money and reduce your emissions. If your children are
style-conscious, there are many popular brands like Adidas, Levi’s and H&M
that offer clothes made from more eco-friendly material.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The most important thing to consider is that your children must
understand and be educated on the importance of the environment and that even
the little things can go a long way in sustaining our planet.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQiye5gvdmIYOcVWUC4TTV7J0Pd1QsBq9ciBIHYqLv6BK3-macrOFb_BSUMoO7vA-u3Zo9784nRa6s9dJ4ctEQKjMSKhjJgjzzqLAAob0YkNMg7vPK0GGyyAxSlr9dcvWVKSKRmPoqR8/s1600/BackToSchoolGoingGreen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNQiye5gvdmIYOcVWUC4TTV7J0Pd1QsBq9ciBIHYqLv6BK3-macrOFb_BSUMoO7vA-u3Zo9784nRa6s9dJ4ctEQKjMSKhjJgjzzqLAAob0YkNMg7vPK0GGyyAxSlr9dcvWVKSKRmPoqR8/s640/BackToSchoolGoingGreen.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Little Steps</b></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Go with what you know</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Going green doesn't always have to mean big changes, sticking to some basic principals can make a big difference in little ways! <b>REDUCE, REUSE, & RECYCLE every way you can. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>For more suggestions on going green with kids visit some of our other articles:</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/03/easy-ways-to-get-your-kids-thinking.html">Easy ways to get your kids thinking about the environment early</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2011/09/28-ways-to-build-green-lifestyle.html">28 Ways To Build A Green Lifestyle</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/01/green-resources-digital-textbooks.html">Green Resources: Digital Textbooks</a></span></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Or check out the
following links for more resources:<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.themeafordindependent.ca/home/in-the-schools/2545-green-tips-for-back-to-school"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Meadford
Independent, “Green Tips for Back to School”</span></a></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.treehugger.com/htgg/how-to-go-green-back-to-school.html">Tree Hugger, “How
to Go Green: Back to School”</a><br />
<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/08/29/eco-friendly-school-tips_n_1840651.html">Huffington
Post, “Green your Back-to-School Routine”</a></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.snacktaxi.com/"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">SnackTAXI</span></a></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.ecouterre.com/levis-hm-adidas-debut-apparel-made-with-eco-friendly-better-cotton/"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ecouterre,
“Levi’s, H&M, Adidas Debut Apparel Made With Eco-Friendly “Better Cotton””</span></a></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.papermategreen.net/ca-en/products.html"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Paper Mate,
“Biodegrable Products”</span></a></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/product-reviews/eco-friendly-products/reusable-water-bottle-reviews/best-reusable-water-bottles#slide-1"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Good
Housekeeping, “Reusable water bottle reviews”</span></a></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.theultimategreenstore.com/s-224-bags-backpacks.aspx"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Ultimate
Green Store</span></a></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><a href="http://www.ecocentricbags.com/eco-friendly-backpacks.html"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ecocentric Bags</span></a></span></div>
<span lang="EN-US" style="line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://www.ecojot.com/"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Ecojot</span></a></span>Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-35993056804104791522012-08-13T13:06:00.000-07:002012-08-13T13:07:29.483-07:00Sustainable Urban Planning<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">What is Urban Planning?</span></span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">Urban planning is the branch of
architecture dealing with the design and organization of urban space and
activities, including the physical arrangement of the cities and the condition
they are in. Cities have employed planners to lay out their infrastructures for
years and, like many professions, urban planning has developed over time to
reflect the changes in our society and our planet.</span><b><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Historically, urban planning was primarily
concerned with the placement of certain things near other things (i.e. a waste
treatment plant should be far away from an elementary school, but a park could
be nearby). As the awareness of climate change has grown, and a general shift
has been made to a more eco-friendly way of life, urban planning can now take
sustainability to heart and begin building greenest cities from the ground up.</span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">How can a city "Go Green"?</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">These days it’s hard to say exactly what
makes a city “green”. As creativity and innovation thrive, new and better ways
to live environmentally friendly are constantly being revealed. Any step in the
right direction is a good one and, lucky for us, there are many ways for our
cities to show their green sides.</span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Clearing
the clutter<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Urban sprawl is the uncontrolled spread of
urban development into neighboring areas; much like organizing your closet or
defragmenting your computer, putting stuff where it belongs can greatly
increase the available space you have by maximizing the space you use. Urban
planning that reduces sprawl is considered green because it increases the
density of city infrastructure and fits the same amount of “city” into a
smaller area. Cutting back sprawl can positively impact a city’s sustainability
in a number of ways:</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEo28UbNw_ijJHnjdC2RnYBiV-1OhBtJj66pBpQY8CgGU66EMzoJip2lI-VbBvcTw4i0-LiD3cn6AO6N6s5NJXDXajiNnlMwBelfk4xVy1vLw2k-GY6_0yfkA29tnGTEQZLnBi-TUOEaU/s1600/urban+sprawl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEo28UbNw_ijJHnjdC2RnYBiV-1OhBtJj66pBpQY8CgGU66EMzoJip2lI-VbBvcTw4i0-LiD3cn6AO6N6s5NJXDXajiNnlMwBelfk4xVy1vLw2k-GY6_0yfkA29tnGTEQZLnBi-TUOEaU/s640/urban+sprawl.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wildlife
Refuges<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgS2orKUYMROdAL-KMheFUWax_4x_gIxI3oYmjtbMo6FQ7M8ExRDhz3ZBnf44OhD1eD_Qxjq6_HxxX9y0Tuj3GVFpIozg3c02pSMNToqXA9g74IpjrBkf88U0oiaKRj5ieXp9LKiq-2V4/s1600/bears.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgS2orKUYMROdAL-KMheFUWax_4x_gIxI3oYmjtbMo6FQ7M8ExRDhz3ZBnf44OhD1eD_Qxjq6_HxxX9y0Tuj3GVFpIozg3c02pSMNToqXA9g74IpjrBkf88U0oiaKRj5ieXp9LKiq-2V4/s320/bears.jpg" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When a city is compact, land that would
have otherwise been used by sprawl is left in a more natural state. This provides opportunities for wildlife
habitat and also acts as a reserve for native plant species. Available wildlife habitat keeps wildlife and
humans both safer, and interactions to a minimum. The forests and vegetation that grow on this
land will also act as a natural water filtration system and a carbon sink. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
city of Seattle, Washington comprises over 54,000 acres of land; of this, more than 6,000 acres is green space. The city’s <a href="http://www.seattle.gov/parks/Publications/urbanwildlife.htm"><i>Urban Wildlife and Habitat Management Plan</i></a><i> </i>lays out guidelines for
managing land such that crucial wildlife habitat is left undisturbed. Land that is considered to be of particular
importance for wildlife is acquired by the city to prevent its development, and
green spaces are linked whenever possible.</span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Food
Security<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In addition to threatening natural
ecosystems, urban sprawl threatens farmland. As the need for growth in the city centre pushes the city limits
outwards, productive farmland is bought up and developed for other uses. This increases a city’s dependence on food
grown out of town or overseas. When food
isn’t grown locally, it requires large input of energy (usually in the form of
fossil fuels) to transport it to where it will be consumed. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To help protect farmland, the Town of <st1:city w:st="on">Oliver</st1:city>, BC, collaborated with Land and <st1:city w:st="on">Water</st1:city>
<st1:state w:st="on">BC</st1:state> to create the <st1:placename w:st="on"><i>Wine</i></st1:placename><i> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Village</st1:placetype>
and <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:placename w:st="on">Kettle</st1:placename> <st1:placetype w:st="on">Valley</st1:placetype></st1:place> Railway Plan.</i> The plan conceptualizes a compact,
pedestrian-friendly village with mostly multi-family dwellings. Surrounding the village is fertile wine country,
agrotourism to which is marketed by the village in order to give agriculture in
the area a boost and ensure continued production.</span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Fossil
Fuel Use<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibLTJ3n_42tFElk78N0nSSR2RVhlDELL3VBJ3LPGpvu1PdiPzay_1ihQDJ7zVXfG7ATeC4f8AMLyNa37-qVwCGla-2HncVcgsnw-YLZC6SSK4eGlr-eL-hhr2YhdjjZwK_9XqDJXylsy4/s1600/BedZED.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibLTJ3n_42tFElk78N0nSSR2RVhlDELL3VBJ3LPGpvu1PdiPzay_1ihQDJ7zVXfG7ATeC4f8AMLyNa37-qVwCGla-2HncVcgsnw-YLZC6SSK4eGlr-eL-hhr2YhdjjZwK_9XqDJXylsy4/s320/BedZED.jpg" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It’s not just food that uses up fossil
fuels to get around! When a city begins
to sprawl, opportunities to take alternate forms of transportation begin to
diminish. People become reliant on their
cars to get around, since walking, cycling, or public transit are often no
longer viable options. Air quality
suffers, as does the health of the individual who is now hopping in their car
instead of hopping on their bike.</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://home2.btconnect.com/bedzedpavilion/">BedZED</a>, short for Beddington Zero Energy
Development, is a multi-use planned community in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">London</st1:city>, <st1:country -region="-region" w:st="on">England</st1:country></st1:place>. It includes both residential and commercial
spaces, and has been built to be carbon neutral. Ideally, workers in the office space would
live in the residential buildings and be able to walk neatly to work. </span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Affordability<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another unfortunate, and probably less
thought-of, effect of urban sprawl is its effect on our pocket book. Whenever new housing developments or
commercial properties are built, the infrastructures to support them need to
follow. Tax payers end up footing the
bill for extra roads, sewers, water, and electric that wouldn’t be necessary in
a more compact city layout. </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Vancouver</st1:city>,
<st1:state w:st="on">BC</st1:state></st1:place>, zoning bylaws were amended in
2009 to allow a secondary dwelling structure on many previously single-family
lots. The secondary “laneway” house can
be as large as 750 square feet, depending on the size of the lot. Laneway houses can be used as guest houses,
as in-law suites, or as rental properties to increase the homeowner’s
income. 94% of lots outside of <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:city w:st="on">Vancouver</st1:city></st1:place>’s downtown core
were affected by the zoning change. The
potential for increasing residential without rebuilding is huge, and all
without creating the need for new roads or sewers.</span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Where
to start?<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">For the city that’s ready to make the first
step, there are many resources available to help. <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:state w:st="on">British
Columbia</st1:state></st1:place>’s Ministry of Community Development has
published an e-book, <a href="http://www.cscd.gov.bc.ca/lgd/intergov_relations/library/BCMCD_AGuideToGreenChoices.pdf">A
Guide to Green Choices</a>, aimed directly at communities looking to
improve. The <a href="http://www.toolkit.bc.ca/who-we-are">BC Climate Change Council</a> offers
Sustainability Facilitators and planners free of charge to local BC community
governments. Outside of BC, consultants
such as <a href="http://www.plangreen.net/">PlanGreen</a> will help communities
establish policies and meet their environmental goals. </span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">What can I do?</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">There are lots of things you can do to help
your community reach its green goals!</span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Contribute
to infilling<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Infilling is the process of increasing the
density of a city by replacing or adding to existing developments. Infilling reduces urban sprawl and helps to
prevent habitat loss and unnecessary infrastructure. You can help in a couple of ways:</span></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Consider a dwelling in a multi-family
development, such as a condominium or a town-home.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Give tiny houses a chance!</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In areas where lane-way houses are allowed,
consider downsizing your life and living in a tiny house or a small house.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Seven hundred and fifty square feet may seem
small, but a tiny house done right can pack a lot of house into a little
space.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Check out the </span><a href="http://www.tumbleweedhouses.com/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tumbleweed Tiny House Company</a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> to
see floor layouts of dwellings under 900 square feet.</span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX7jlOOBDlI0Il5PrXV6ZjkzSyEneb7lvJkkT6_2xhHD6SObNf1yCBFHNGe0LreMJiC3Jlidy4NCevUb8P4oFaPRuwTLEonWAPW93jGBRuABkXfP5QBHtDYHjN1Jjq9VGVKzrrgLNRvP0/s1600/Sebastarosa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjX7jlOOBDlI0Il5PrXV6ZjkzSyEneb7lvJkkT6_2xhHD6SObNf1yCBFHNGe0LreMJiC3Jlidy4NCevUb8P4oFaPRuwTLEonWAPW93jGBRuABkXfP5QBHtDYHjN1Jjq9VGVKzrrgLNRvP0/s640/Sebastarosa.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Make
yourself more food-secure</span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Food security is a term that’s used when
talking about how stable our food supply is. When food is shipped in from overseas, it is not a secure food system.
Something like a fuel shortage or a political disagreement can disrupt shipment
and leave us hungry. To help make
yourself more food secure, try some of these ideas:</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Support local farmers.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Farmers markets are a great place to buy
produce, and they’re a lot of fun, too.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Supporting our local farmers ensures they are there when we need them.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Grow your own food if it’s possible.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Find a community garden, or dig a plot in
your backyard.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Even a container on your
patio helps a little.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Looking for more
space to grow or have space to spare?</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Maybe a yard-sharing program is for you.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Yard sharing programs connect people who need space and people who have
unused property.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In Metro Vancouver, you
can check out </span><a href="http://www.sharingbackyards.com/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sharing Backyards</a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Plan your commute</b></span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Live as close to work as you can.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you can walk or cycle to work, you are not
using any fossil fuels.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You’ll find you
also free up all sorts of time if your commute is suddenly cut in half.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Use public transit if you can</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Is there an option for you to
telecommute?</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Take it whenever possible,
even if it’s only one day a week, every little bit helps.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If
you can’t manage without your car, carpool!</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If it’s an option for you, you could also consider vehicles that use
alternate forms of energy, such as natural gas or electricity.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></li>
</ul>
<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Be
part of the solution</span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Most importantly, get involved! It’s your community, make it into what you
want it to be. Stakeholders of the
Resort Municipality of Whistler, BC, together with municipal staff, created a
document they called the </span><a href="http://www.whistler.ca/sites/default/files/1.3_plans_and_strategies_whistler_environmental_stategy.pdf" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Whistler Environmental Strategy</a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> (WES). While the Municipal Council didn’t endorse
the project, the resulting document has still influenced the decision-making
process within the municipality. Several
areas of environmental concern outlined in the WES have been further
investigated and included in budgets and plans. Your voice can only be heard if you say something.</span><br />
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><span lang="EN-US">Sources: </span><a href="http://www.seattle.gov/parks/Publications/UrbanWildlifeandHabitatMngtPlan2000.pdf">Seattle.gov</a>,
<a href="http://coachhousebuilders.com/bylaw.html">Coach House Builders</a>, <a href="http://www.plangreen.net/">Plan Green</a>, <a href="http://www.cscd.gov.bc.ca/lgd/intergov_relations/library/BCMCD_AGuideToGreenChoices.pdf">CSCD</a>,
<a href="http://www.infrastructure.gc.ca/infra/env-eng.html">Infrastructure</a>,
<a href="http://former.vancouver.ca/blStorage/9910.PDF">Vancouver</a>, <a href="http://wallpapers-catalog.com/green-city-wallpaper.1680x1050.download.html">Wallpapers</a>,
<a href="http://www.tumbleweedhouses.com/products/sebastarosa/">Tumbleweed
Houses</a>, <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOXAFENbJWW7thyphenhyphenJg23FKM4cBF3j9V4SuNWXPqam76tcaAJidK0JYDB_sa8mQ1gpDSB5W8Ve59YTcIgasvmSYDVt3kwo9uUDA0DgHLKrkPO5wzusnY5oFpsITrLQYKz52WK0bpsDTwn3U/s1600/BedZED.jpg">Blogspot Image</a>, <a href="http://www2.macleans.ca/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/farmland_w.jpg">Macleans</a>, <a href="http://www.cscd.gov.bc.ca/lgd/intergov_relations/library/BCMCD_AGuideToGreenChoices.pdf">CSCD</a></span></div>
Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-78548290467351653872012-07-26T12:30:00.000-07:002012-07-26T12:31:25.594-07:00Solar Power At Home – now easier than ever!<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Photovoltaic solar power for your home used to consist of
large, heavy objects that could be quite the eyesore on a front lawn or rooftop.
People recognized the practical long-term benefits but didn't want their yards
and roofs cluttered up with ugly, expensive solar arrays. Luckily, as
technology improves, products decrease in size (and cost) while offering
increased efficiency.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvxtXHC7lVQ5olabRrymNknCZUmbz8GW2X9D6rGBl8dspxXiGNxX1aG-aTWIxDGwsHzYdswYxVuEYzk7pKocEXsvNojp2a9MrosfXt0Bw56BQMmRQA1oAlDdqS1QBaKb6CD4UzZdepyeY/s1600/Featured-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="435" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvxtXHC7lVQ5olabRrymNknCZUmbz8GW2X9D6rGBl8dspxXiGNxX1aG-aTWIxDGwsHzYdswYxVuEYzk7pKocEXsvNojp2a9MrosfXt0Bw56BQMmRQA1oAlDdqS1QBaKb6CD4UzZdepyeY/s640/Featured-1.jpg" width="640" /></a><o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">New Technology</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicK91Y5nz7b1Z4FS2BgcfQ34H7ZMQxSYczz_iKSMa2p_ussYzuc_BQsomQEiaW9OMIhETpjhOpa0LR4Os7lELHJ3clUln73838eC1X-K3EzQN15OKuLH2xXQHjypvx9PaXU0MR4kRMh20/s1600/bipv_skylight.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicK91Y5nz7b1Z4FS2BgcfQ34H7ZMQxSYczz_iKSMa2p_ussYzuc_BQsomQEiaW9OMIhETpjhOpa0LR4Os7lELHJ3clUln73838eC1X-K3EzQN15OKuLH2xXQHjypvx9PaXU0MR4kRMh20/s320/bipv_skylight.jpg" width="320" /></a><o:p><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">New building integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) products from
companies like <a href="http://am.suntech-power.com/">Suntech</a> and <a href="http://www.canadian-solar.com/">Canadian Solar</a> offer
photovoltaic modules to be integrated into the building's envelope – replacing
traditional construction materials such as <b>roof
shingles</b>, <b>skylights</b> and <b>facades</b>. Essentially, they make
structural/aesthetic elements of
buildings double as power producers.
Imagine the possibilities for cities full of large buildings!</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Declining Prices</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOLyUG1KmEAiJO9KqecriU6l2lZZUoCwF9Q-1FQKD8f-lwLmzLVIIsubMTs66kHTQUsMZ7MzNXbpprK3SH1jeU7nEItQEEygVKQ5UJCJ-bFIq_2o1V9uUZaoAqHoAd1dmS2sCWIDczLWc/s1600/bp-solar-home-solutions-system-1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOLyUG1KmEAiJO9KqecriU6l2lZZUoCwF9Q-1FQKD8f-lwLmzLVIIsubMTs66kHTQUsMZ7MzNXbpprK3SH1jeU7nEItQEEygVKQ5UJCJ-bFIq_2o1V9uUZaoAqHoAd1dmS2sCWIDczLWc/s320/bp-solar-home-solutions-system-1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Solar power systems for homes, whether building integrated
or traditional, have been getting steadily cheaper over the last few years as
the market floods with new technologies and eager manufacturers. Coupled with government grants (and compared
to rising fossil-fuel prices), it's becoming a better choice now than ever
before to power your own home. A study
from March 2012 found that in Massachusetts, the average payback time for a
solar installation has reached a stunning 4 years, and in Hawaii it is a
comparable 5.4 years. Many other U.S. states dropped below the 10 year payback
mark – often resulting from government funding programs. Considering this, and
the additional value that photovoltaic capabilities can add to a home, they are
beginning to look like a great investment for home owners, financially and
environmentally.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_EPCysIQexrk7HAlRWy1MlddSqlMGS7Y8JniekF1qr86GAHK_R1GuZlxR-oy9NhiGdgYfFu4fxjf88W2QvpPIzkC8fJebZiQQqPUH9E7j4R9FAfOeoCUjFNbstKDAYnl91Zlfekv7G6M/s1600/thaibiosolarhouse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_EPCysIQexrk7HAlRWy1MlddSqlMGS7Y8JniekF1qr86GAHK_R1GuZlxR-oy9NhiGdgYfFu4fxjf88W2QvpPIzkC8fJebZiQQqPUH9E7j4R9FAfOeoCUjFNbstKDAYnl91Zlfekv7G6M/s640/thaibiosolarhouse.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">For more information visit <a href="http://gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.ca/2012/02/solar-energy-in-home.html">our detailed article</a> on </span><span style="font-size: large;">how you can have solar energy in your home!</span><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Sources: <a href="http://am.suntech-power.com/index.php">Suntech</a>, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.wbdg.org/resources/bipv.php" style="background-color: white;">WBDG</a>, </span><a href="http://www.canadiansolar.com/en/products/bipv-products/" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Canadian Solar</a>, <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.prweb.com/releases/2012/3/prweb9282391.htm" style="background-color: white;">PR Web</a>, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://1bog.org/blog/infographic-how-much-does-solar-cost/" style="background-color: white;">Infographic</a>, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.vancouversun.com/business/Costs+clean+energy+falling+study+says/6743422/story.html" style="background-color: white;">Vancouver Sun</a>, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://inhabitat.com/bangkok-bio-solar-house/bio-solar-house-soontorn-boonyatikam-chulalongkorn-university-bangkok-thailand-thai-green-architecture-sustainable-design-biosolal-house/" style="background-color: white;">Inhabitat</a>, </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.trendir.com/green/bp-solar-home-solutions-system-easy-to-install-solar-panels.html" style="background-color: white;">Trend IR</a>, </span><a href="http://www.solarpowerhomeideas.com/" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Solar Power Home Ideas</a></div>Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-68984067794043217242012-07-24T13:09:00.000-07:002012-07-24T13:15:32.270-07:00The Green Passport Initiative: Changing the way we travel the globe<b style="background-color: white;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Why do people
travel?</span></span></b><br />
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<b style="background-color: white;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc_dXhqkukt97p4aBAX3hNXGlHW59fmGd0-SiVtVy3lDBzNU0RJab_Rs5I1IWQqmgUEKiB9CtKu4C1LQyeMJzvKHFzFmIOsp4uzpFvsvQ3TwJK-pwYOgBMIe5_HnuO9HIfTHDBsI1Vt38/s1600/greenpass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc_dXhqkukt97p4aBAX3hNXGlHW59fmGd0-SiVtVy3lDBzNU0RJab_Rs5I1IWQqmgUEKiB9CtKu4C1LQyeMJzvKHFzFmIOsp4uzpFvsvQ3TwJK-pwYOgBMIe5_HnuO9HIfTHDBsI1Vt38/s200/greenpass.jpg" width="154" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Early in the Neolithic age the ancient man
began to build roads to facilitate the movement of troops through empires, and
eventually civilians began to travel in caravans. Travel for the purpose of
commerce and trade began to develop as a consequence and took explorers to new
lands to meet other people and bring back treasures, foods, and fur. In
Medieval times traveling received a religious connotation when the most famous
travelers were pilgrims and missionaries, however, it took a long time for
people to start perceiving travelling as a leisure activity. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In the late 16<sup>th</sup> century it became fashionable among young
aristocrats and rich people to make "Grand Tours" to London, Paris,
Venice, Florence, and Rome in order to enlighten themselves and become closer to art, literature, and music. The Industrial Revolution facilitated the
growth of middle class, who now had money and free time. It was the first time that
traveling was done for the sole pleasure of it. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBqL8JKLlRjtqH5AJ1IwXM0Y1CoRCeGxTduAtG3vMRg4WJL0SWKCoyT1hG_36ikrauDYxmjBRTIu3w_XtjtNjVcWQrdT_iyIr9LLbKJJGLpGcPOf98je4mNKAlg-gg8-b4GRS-5VzjX8g/s1600/vikingship15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBqL8JKLlRjtqH5AJ1IwXM0Y1CoRCeGxTduAtG3vMRg4WJL0SWKCoyT1hG_36ikrauDYxmjBRTIu3w_XtjtNjVcWQrdT_iyIr9LLbKJJGLpGcPOf98je4mNKAlg-gg8-b4GRS-5VzjX8g/s200/vikingship15.jpg" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thomas Cook, whose name is given to popular travel guides, was the first
to propose to the general public a real traveling solution. He began with
organizing tours across Britain then quickly moved to Europe, where Paris and the
Swiss Alps became the most popular destinations. He was a pioneer in travelling
services and now all large travel organizations base themselves on his ideas:
excursions, sightseeing, timetables, travel guides, and routes. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXtM5MNyycBmD838w7VIhrLLzm_1bwre3O4GwKlmzJesE0gAtCMziRTR8xxjii0G9pMhDkpmC5wpv2Hv8JYPiHY4XLwfj_CF8Cun1GaUn_CL_BOguRf1mLNi4-f5LjNvf6FVn538DJKEY/s1600/oxcart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXtM5MNyycBmD838w7VIhrLLzm_1bwre3O4GwKlmzJesE0gAtCMziRTR8xxjii0G9pMhDkpmC5wpv2Hv8JYPiHY4XLwfj_CF8Cun1GaUn_CL_BOguRf1mLNi4-f5LjNvf6FVn538DJKEY/s200/oxcart.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">In the 20<sup>th</sup> century, with the invention of the airplane, dramatic
changes happened in the way people travel. According to the <a href="http://www.si.edu/">Smithsonian Institution</a> and <a href="http://www.fai.org/">Fédération Aéronautique Internationale</a>, the
Wright Brothers made the first sustained, controlled flight in North Carolina on December 17, 1903.
Soon after, in </span><span lang="RU" style="background-color: white;">June 16</span><span lang="EN-US" style="background-color: white;">, </span><span lang="RU" style="background-color: white;">1909</span><span lang="EN-US" style="background-color: white;">,</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="RU" style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><span lang="RU">Glenn Curtiss</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="RU" style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><span lang="RU" style="background-color: white;">deliver</span><span style="background-color: white;">d</span><span lang="RU" style="background-color: white;"> the<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><i><span lang="RU">Golden
Flier</span></i><span style="background-color: white;">,</span><span lang="RU" style="background-color: white;"> the first commercially-sold airplane in America</span><span lang="EN-US" style="background-color: white;">. World War II only enhanced the usage of
airplanes and made some of countries very experienced in airplane production. A</span><span lang="RU" style="background-color: white;">fter </span><span lang="EN-US" style="background-color: white;">the war,</span><span class="apple-converted-space"><span lang="RU" style="background-color: white;"> </span></span><span lang="RU" style="background-color: white;">commercial aviation<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>grew rapidly, using mostly ex-military aircraft to
transport people and cargo. </span><span lang="RU"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The way we travel now</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Much
of our free time now is spent travelling, even on weekends, discovering new
destinations and gaining new experience. Incredible opportunities are available
to most individuals now; we can travel to different countries, even other
continents in just several hours. <span style="background-color: white;">It
is estimated that approximately 4.5 million people travel by plane each day
meaning that roughly within a year this figure reaches 1643 million people. An amazing number! With the addition of
railway, cars, buses, and other means of transports the scope of our movements
is almost unimaginable. </span> <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The
increase in tourism worldwide is a trend that has enhanced the globalization
process and culture-sharing. Many travelers speak of the personal gains they
acquire through travel, returning to their homes more tolerant and open-minded.
While this trend is surely interesting and exciting, it poses a large challenge
for our planet. The more we travel, the
more traces we leave behind ourselves, and not all the time these traces are
really good. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeeKF5Ma2zWjNad0oqh3udNq0iqTW2lnetYvwnN74BgeXMbMtkCdDIENnkQ5oZwSABGzvZKG5vIg1gfKopdZQKxnObl-8MmHB-kYu84yRO_MR5B44iJl4QjtqOLLUQu3IR6HTUiC4DBCI/s1600/airplane-carbon-emissions-air-pollution.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeeKF5Ma2zWjNad0oqh3udNq0iqTW2lnetYvwnN74BgeXMbMtkCdDIENnkQ5oZwSABGzvZKG5vIg1gfKopdZQKxnObl-8MmHB-kYu84yRO_MR5B44iJl4QjtqOLLUQu3IR6HTUiC4DBCI/s640/airplane-carbon-emissions-air-pollution.jpg" width="640" /></a><b><span lang="EN-US" style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Exploration's carbon footprint</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The rapid growth of air travel in recent years
contributed to a significant increase in total pollution. In the <a href="http://europa.eu/">European Union</a>, greenhouse gas emissions from
aviation increased by 87% between 1990 and 2006. Like all human activities
involving burning, most forms of aviation release carbon dioxide (CO2) and
other greenhouse gases (GHG) into the Earth's atmosphere, contributing to the
acceleration of global warming and (in the case of CO2) ocean acidification.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Achim Steiner, <a href="http://www.un.org/">UN</a> Under Secretary General and <a href="http://www.unep.org/">UNEP</a> Executive Director, said: <i>"Tourism, the world's biggest industry
is booming. By 2020, the number of international arrivals by air and by sea
could reach 1.6 billion annually. This growth brings the prospect of income and
economic development to countless tourist destinations in rich and poor
countries alike. The challenge is to manage this growth sustainably. Governments
have a key role to play, but so too do individuals and families when planning
and going on holiday".</i><span style="color: red;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span lang="EN-US">"Many consumers are now making green domestic choices from sourcing
electricity from renewable sources and choosing eco-friendly investments up to
buying leaner and greener cars. Packing a Green Passport along with airline
tickets, the swimming costume and the sun lotion means tourists no longer need
to leave their green credentials at home but can make them part of the holiday
of a life-time,"</span></i><span lang="EN-US"> added Mr Steiner.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmqKll1ypKyuVkRou4gmhCtztNwpEjl6POAsvHJc3ah1gGGHwrlxwxh6VaJ8qXg-c2V0YnbyBJ8KqvhATf_ijNkwrZuutBEmoJwhRMnLPxWRBj2jp_qn3ZvWlhKSQrqQ2gpq8JIWudb0U/s1600/Green+Passport+Website.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmqKll1ypKyuVkRou4gmhCtztNwpEjl6POAsvHJc3ah1gGGHwrlxwxh6VaJ8qXg-c2V0YnbyBJ8KqvhATf_ijNkwrZuutBEmoJwhRMnLPxWRBj2jp_qn3ZvWlhKSQrqQ2gpq8JIWudb0U/s640/Green+Passport+Website.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">What is the Green
Passport Campaign?</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Green Passport Campaign is an initiative of the International Task
Force on Sustainable Tourism Development, firmly rooted in the move to
accelerate a global shift towards sustainable consumption and production (SCP)
that emerged from the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD), held in
Johannesburg in 2002. <i>“The Green Passport
initiative, which to date has been introduced in Ecuador, Costa Rica, France's
Overseas Territories, and South Africa where 100,000 Green Passports where
distributed to visitors during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, provides a physical
passport-style document packed with advice and tips on how to make a holiday
more sustainable”. <o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-US">Brazil <a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6628117816664821862" name="_Hlk330897111"></a><a href="http://www.unep.org/newscentre/default.aspx?DocumentID=2688&ArticleID=9150">recently joined</a> the Green Passport initiative at
W</span><span lang="EN-US" style="background-color: white;">orld Environment Day
(WED) on June 1<sup>st</sup> 2012 as the Government of Brazil and the UNEP committed
on changing the behavior of travelers and tourists within and outside the
country. With </span><span lang="EN-US" style="background-color: white;">thousands
of people arriving in Rio for the Rio+20 Summit, followed by the FIFA World Cup
in 2014 and the summer Olympics in 2016, this initiative has come at a pivotal
time for Brazil. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">How the Green
Passport can work for you</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The <a href="http://www.unep.org/greenpassport/">Green Passport website</a>
launched in order to support this initiative. There, tourists can search for
sustainably managed hotels, learn about the most environmentally-friendly form
of travel, and discover restaurants that source sustainably-produced
agricultural products and foods. Tourists will discover that traveling green is
not as hard as they imagined on the opposite it can be a lot of fun.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQxbPJEZ5njC5sFhWP78ShsMB87-vuyQeU_hbhqk1Fzt4UFmtn9kPB9GXFJrNj8NzqT5rl3nhDfTwBbrkB1Lry94VcJftkwKGVwegD5m6CMNLjqmZ5kjzj9qBKHjctIo2X9Ubd27OFmM/s1600/Biking-in-Italy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCQxbPJEZ5njC5sFhWP78ShsMB87-vuyQeU_hbhqk1Fzt4UFmtn9kPB9GXFJrNj8NzqT5rl3nhDfTwBbrkB1Lry94VcJftkwKGVwegD5m6CMNLjqmZ5kjzj9qBKHjctIo2X9Ubd27OFmM/s640/Biking-in-Italy.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here you would find some of the reasonable tips that one can find on the
green passport pages. Even a small change can make a difference and bring some
positive changes in your life:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When organizing your trip, make sure your money is well spent by
choosing tour operators and hotel providers
committed to sustainable tourism. Always
ask questions about transport,
accommodation, staff working conditions, waste treatment, and
environmental protection policy. Not
only will you be aware of the issues, you will also make the tour operators
more concerned of these questions. Look
for websites specializing in responsible traveling, ecotourism, or sustainable
tourism (the Rainforest Alliance’s <a href="http://www.eco-index.org/new/index.cfm">Eco-Index</a> can be very helpful
in this area).</span></span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When packing, try to think carefully about what you really need to take
with you. Waste disposal systems in many
countries are ill-equipped to deal with the increased pressures that
tourism brings. A few simple measures can make an enormous difference to the
effect you have on your destination. Where possible, remove the wrapping of
packaged goods before you leave home, so that they are recycled at your own
country.<br /> </span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Flying can be inexpensive but it is also the fastest-growing
source of greenhouse gases contributing to global warming. '<a href="http://www.slowtrav.com/">Slow Travel</a>', similar to '<a href="http://www.slowfood.com/">Slow Food</a>', is a new trend evolving to encourage
the use of more eco-friendly transportation services. For some, this is about
spending more time at a destination, mingling with people, getting to know the
local flora and fauna, taking long walks and exploring, instead of rushing from
one glitzy tourist trap to another. It can also include choosing not to fly,
taking the time to savor experiences and landscapes along the way.<br /> </span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you fly, choose an airline that is committed to sustainable aviation.
There are many ways that aircraft can reduce CO2 emissions, e.g. avoiding
routes with stopovers (it is during takeoff and landing that the highest
emissions occur). You can also help by staying longer once you’ve reached your
destination.<br /> </span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Motorized travel is now the major source of pollution in the tourism
sector: airplanes, 4X4 vehicles, coaches, and motorbikes are the most common
means of transport. Some trips are particularly polluting. For instance,
aircraft or helicopter flights over Kings Canyon in Australia sometimes last
only a few minutes, but the noise generated and excessive fuel consumption have
a devastating effect on the ecosystem. Conversely, a balloon flight over the
MacDonnell Ranges, also in Australia, is an almost magical experience and is
far more respectful of the environment. Be sure to research what you are
planning and choose the best options for yourself and the planet.</span></span></blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxGtMM7I2oTMjTqdiYYyDo2tV9vXVaKnZR7pXsXG8kE01MqmyixfGHT4boc6qV1thvdPfoWFKldj9ftItgLnqBh5QWQ-L9oXlyN6-a-Lb1_69Cmv6oU3UMPwJhBUCumQbUc73r5q3Q0I/s1600/local-food.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxGtMM7I2oTMjTqdiYYyDo2tV9vXVaKnZR7pXsXG8kE01MqmyixfGHT4boc6qV1thvdPfoWFKldj9ftItgLnqBh5QWQ-L9oXlyN6-a-Lb1_69Cmv6oU3UMPwJhBUCumQbUc73r5q3Q0I/s200/local-food.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When selecting your meals, try local food and specialties as often as
possible. By eating locally produced and organic goods you will reduce the CO2
emissions from transport and pesticides as well as help local farmers and the
local economy. Learn more about the impacts of your food choices by visiting <a href="http://www.sustainabletable.org/home.php">sustainabletable.org</a>.</span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikaIk_ACYgPl9WQ07lGuFY3AWMT-bgm2FD1rVa9n19wfAFp0vYSRvrUntcfmwqUDTQI1RmP6-Pyd5QlNjN9eb84dJw9DNDYOZujbYpDi4171nmFez8lYB5desmjPjVeQWNSEsGgIAfYHU/s1600/garbage-can-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikaIk_ACYgPl9WQ07lGuFY3AWMT-bgm2FD1rVa9n19wfAFp0vYSRvrUntcfmwqUDTQI1RmP6-Pyd5QlNjN9eb84dJw9DNDYOZujbYpDi4171nmFez8lYB5desmjPjVeQWNSEsGgIAfYHU/s200/garbage-can-2.jpg" width="128" /></a><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Consider what you are bringing with you and leaving behind in different
areas. Here are the average times needed for certain “standard” types of waste
to disappear in most geographical areas:</span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sheet of paper: 2-4 weeks</span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Banana skin: 3-5 weeks</span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Photographic film container: 20-30 years</span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Shoe sole: 50-100 years</span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tin can: 80-100 years</span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Aluminum can: 200-400 years</span></span><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Plastic stopper: 450 years</span></span></blockquote>
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<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">
<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b style="background-color: white;"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;">Putting theory
into action</span></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If the passport guidelines introduce a new way of travelling that
challenges your perceptions, shakes you out of your comfort zone, and inspires
you to enrich your soul, then the Green Passport Initiative has reached its
aim. As a greener traveller you will not only make a contribution to other
people’s lives, you might just change your own.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc_dXhqkukt97p4aBAX3hNXGlHW59fmGd0-SiVtVy3lDBzNU0RJab_Rs5I1IWQqmgUEKiB9CtKu4C1LQyeMJzvKHFzFmIOsp4uzpFvsvQ3TwJK-pwYOgBMIe5_HnuO9HIfTHDBsI1Vt38/s1600/greenpass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc_dXhqkukt97p4aBAX3hNXGlHW59fmGd0-SiVtVy3lDBzNU0RJab_Rs5I1IWQqmgUEKiB9CtKu4C1LQyeMJzvKHFzFmIOsp4uzpFvsvQ3TwJK-pwYOgBMIe5_HnuO9HIfTHDBsI1Vt38/s1600/greenpass.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Click <a href="http://www.globalsustainabletourism.com/upload/file/file/259.pdf">here</a>
for your Green Passport</span></span></b><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">!</span><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You can download it on your Smartphone or print it out; it will always
be there for you whenever you go decide to go travelling. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Dare to change and don’t be shy to take this new green attitude with you
to the most beautiful, interesting, and charming destinations!</i></span><span style="font-family: Georgia, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.unep.org/greenpassport/">UNEP</a>, </span></span><a href="http://matadornetwork.com/bnt/a-history-of-why-people-travel/" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Matador Network</a>, <a href="http://airandspace.si.edu/wrightbrothers/" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Air and Space</a>, <a href="http://www.wright-brothers.org/" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Wright Brothers</a>, <a href="http://wiki.answers.com/Q/How_many_people_travel_by_plane_each_day" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Plane Travel</a>, <a href="http://www.losttribes.net/menu/travel.html" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Lost Tribes</a>, <a href="http://www.oldquebechistory.com/2008/12/pioneer-travel.html" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Pioneer Travel</a>, <span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.treehugger.com/natural-sciences/7-short-and-senseless-flights-wed-love-to-ban.html" style="background-color: white;">TreeHugger</a>, </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.21stcenturyfood.com/blog/tag/local-food/" style="font-size: x-small;">21st Century Food</a><span style="font-size: xx-small;">, </span></span><a href="http://thealbertaaltruist.blogspot.ca/2011/11/absolute-garbage.html"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">The Alberta Altruist</span></a></div>Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-33798260564059516852012-07-19T09:27:00.000-07:002012-07-19T09:27:10.754-07:00The Story of Change<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.storyofstuff.com/">The Story of Stuff Project</a> has come out with their latest video, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIQdYXCKUv0&feature=plcp">The Story of Change</a>, illustrating how "going green" is just the first step in changing our world. The video puts into simple words and images exactly what we need to do to take control of our society and take care of our planet, using stories of change from the past to show just how possible it is.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>The Story of Change</u></b></span></div>
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<b style="background-color: white;"><u><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Story of Stuff</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>The Story of Electronics</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b><u>About The Story of Stuff:</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When Annie Leonard and her friends at Free Range Studios set out in 2007 to share what she’d learned about the way we make, use and throw away Stuff, they thought 50,000 views would be a good result for her ‘20-minute cartoon about trash.’ Today, with over 15 million views and counting, <strong style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; z-index: 1;"><em style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; z-index: 1;">The Story of Stuff</em></strong> is one of the most watched environmental-themed online movies of all time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Annie founded the non-profit <strong style="margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; z-index: 1;">Story of Stuff Project</strong> in 2008 to respond to tens of thousands of viewer requests for more information and ways to get involved. We create short, easily shareable online movies that explore some of the key features of our relationship with Stuff—including how we can make things better; we provide high quality educational resources and programs to everyone from teachers and people of faith to business and community leaders; and we support the learning and action of the over 350,000 members of the Story of Stuff community.</span></div>
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<br />Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6628117816664821862.post-5158727754031373882012-07-10T10:23:00.000-07:002012-07-10T10:26:54.652-07:00Bixi Bikes Coming to Vancouver<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We're thrilled to see progression in the plan to introduce <a href="https://montreal.bixi.com/about-bixi/news">Bixi</a> bikes to Vancouver as the <a href="http://www.velo-city2012.com/">Velo-City Conference</a> was attended late last month: </span><br />
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><u>Bike share is coming to Vancouver, and we must make it work</u></span></h4>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The international Velo-City conference is underway in Vancouver as of Tuesday morning and I arrived in time to hear an inspired talk by urban cycling advocate Gil Penalosa. Judging by the Twitter activity throughout the morning, Penalosa's message excited the full house in attendance at the Wall Centre. While Penalosa's full presentation — <a class="external external_icon" href="http://www.8-80cities.org/work-with-us/gil-s-keynote.html" style="background-image: url(http://citycaucus.com/wp-content/plugins/sem-external-links/external.png); background-position: 100% 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 13px 0px 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">available here</a> — is fast-paced and rich with detail, it was nicely summed up by an Australian delegate named Stephen Yarwood.</span></div>
<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 21px;">Given the way the Vision council have married themselves to the cycling issue, it was perhaps predictable that the site of the Velo-City conference felt like an offsite City Hall. Mayor Gregor hung around to do interviews while his chief of staff parked himself in front of the venue most of the morning. Even Penny Ballem paced around the site. The always affable Jerry Dobrovolny, Vancouver's Director of Transportation listened intently to Penalosa's speech, which he quipped might put him out of a job. Penalosa's message was to be bold, to be fearless in the face of public opposition, and to make cities as safe as possible for cycling with many miles worth of separated bike lanes. Vancouver, said Penalosa, has not been nearly bold enough when compared to cities like Chicago.</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">The real star of the show that morning, however, were the over 600 Bixi bikes shipped in for the conference and parked in front of the Wall Centre convention facility. Bixi is the Montreal-based bike share manufacturer that will be providing the two-wheeled transport for Vancouver's bike share program. The operator for the Vancouver bike share will be the Alta company based out of Portland, Oregon.</span></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #666666;">I had the pleasure of having my first bike share experience, after I signed an insurance waiver and gave conference organizers a stamp of my credit card. To get access to a bike I simply inserted the card provided by Velo-City, waited a few seconds for the light to turn from red to green, and pulled the bike out while slightly lifting the rear of the bike from the seat. With my complementary Lazer bike helmet strapped on I took a short ride downtown.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></span></blockquote>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">The Bixi bikes are beautiful machines. They are definitely more sturdy than your typical hybrid or road bike, and sport wide tires with a street-friendly tread. The seat is wide and comfy, something many casual riders prefer.</span> </span></blockquote>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The seat post – which I got a blurry image of – is easily adjustable, and thankfully you're not able to easily slide the seat and post right off the bike. That would be a big target of theft otherwise.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></blockquote>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My demo bike was a three-speed but the bikes on order for Vancouver's bike share will be a seven-speed bike to better manage our city's hilly terrain. The gear changer is located in the right half of the handlebar, and the left side has a small bell you can ring with your thumb when needed. There is a small amount of space over the handlebars to locate a small basket if necessary.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span></blockquote>
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<span style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">The brakes are built into the wheel hubs, and while you're riding enough power is generated to run safety lights embedded into the frame of the bike, improving your visibility in traffic. Overall it's a solid and comfortable ride, but the slightly heavy frame had my quadriceps burning up a few hills. For all my Bixi bike images see</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;"> </span><a class="external external_icon" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/citycaucus/sets/72157630308825726/" style="background-color: white; background-image: url(http://citycaucus.com/wp-content/plugins/sem-external-links/external.png); background-position: 100% 50%; background-repeat: no-repeat no-repeat; border: 0px; font-style: inherit; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px 13px 0px 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank">this Flickr set</a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 21px;">...</span> </span><i style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 21px;">Read the full story at <a href="http://citycaucus.com/2012/06/vancouver-bike-share-bixi-bikes-a-first-look/">City Caucus</a></i></blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtL4QJ3LIVmpPEqlW2m7UFVuOUs_hyF-AxyAar2C3fHQM5pfSijMiVcEHdAMWZj-e_SboX7rH5vSsTIstgWAA49rMNyfuJHMoFt_WzCFandY2G4IcD82QDieUum7cK4tkxKg4BdUl3wbM/s1600/bixi+vancouver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtL4QJ3LIVmpPEqlW2m7UFVuOUs_hyF-AxyAar2C3fHQM5pfSijMiVcEHdAMWZj-e_SboX7rH5vSsTIstgWAA49rMNyfuJHMoFt_WzCFandY2G4IcD82QDieUum7cK4tkxKg4BdUl3wbM/s320/bixi+vancouver.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4H-8LLNhn553chzPxaikQKkNVu6E4TPRKozisxgUieZtFHJa8EN6DzhW0SeDBya5kVdebgBedSFrRqrLDU4-_l1hJKeC7YwrFZ5Cdpnbo9t7j_6wWe0ym6F8Lc8PDR3ate5Bc0U0kxNc/s1600/bixi.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4H-8LLNhn553chzPxaikQKkNVu6E4TPRKozisxgUieZtFHJa8EN6DzhW0SeDBya5kVdebgBedSFrRqrLDU4-_l1hJKeC7YwrFZ5Cdpnbo9t7j_6wWe0ym6F8Lc8PDR3ate5Bc0U0kxNc/s320/bixi.png" width="320" /></a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bicycle sharing programs have been active in many cities throughout the globe, much like car-shares and other eco-transportation services that are new to Vancouver. As part of Vancouver's </span><a href="http://vancouver.ca/greenestcity/" style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Greenest City Action Plan</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> we are expecting to see a significant increase in bicycle transportation services and improvements. The increase in bikes and bike lanes pose a natural deterrent to motor vehicles as those that are inclined to choose cleaner modes of transportation can with ease, and those that prefer to utilize motor vehicles may chose to go elsewhere. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The city's </span><a href="http://vancouver.ca/engsvcs/transport/cleanGreen/index.htm" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">green transportation initiatives</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> focus on walking, cycling, transit, and greenways. By designing streets with pedestrian priority, expanding the bicycle network, improving public transit, and increasing public green space, one can imagine a healthier, greener city in the future. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bixi is expected to be active in Vancouver by 2013.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i>Watch here to learn more about Velo-city Vancouver:</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">Sources: <a href="http://citycaucus.com/2012/06/vancouver-bike-share-bixi-bikes-a-first-look/">City Caucus</a>, <a href="https://montreal.bixi.com/about-bixi/news">Bixi</a>, <a href="http://vancouver.ca/engsvcs/transport/cleanGreen/index.htm">Vancouver Greenest City</a>, <a href="http://www.velo-city2012.com/videos">Velo-city</a>, <a href="http://www.vancitybuzz.com/2010/06/bixi-vancouver-program-in-2011/">Vancity Buzz</a>, <a href="http://transportation.ubc.ca/2012/06/25/bike-share-at-ubc/">UBC Transportation</a></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Greencyclopedia & Eco Endeavorshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14236187470430243297noreply@blogger.com