Environmentally Non-Toxic Green Bullets

Yes, “Green Bullets” do exist. There are well over 12 million hunters that will take to the outdoors this season. The majority of these hunters will be arming themselves with lead-based ammunition. Over the past few years many people are realizing the dangerous contamination that lead-based bullets leave behind for humans and their environment. Lead, a toxic metal harmful to people and wildlife alike, is the essential element in most ammunition used today. These lead-based bullets can contaminate the meat shot by hunters, leading to lead poisoning by those who consume the meat. This lead exposure is becoming a threat to our wildlife and to our environment. But greener alternatives are gaining visibility.

The idea is to make a switch to environmentally friendly non-toxic ammo.  “Green” bullets as some refer to them, do not contain lead and are made of copper. This switch can drastically reduce the impact left behind by lead-based bullets.

Recognizing the danger of lead, many have voluntarily switched to using this non-toxic, “green” ammunition. Barnes Bullets is a manufacturer who is keen to the idea and has begun to offer non-toxic copper bullets. The cost of the green ammo is comparable but slightly more expensive to normal lead based bullets.

Some firing ranges around the country are banning lead for safety reasons. In New York, the Department of Environmental Conservation has switched to non-toxic ammunition for firearms training, in an attempt to limit wildlife exposure to lead. Lead bullets can contaminate military training grounds and are the focus of many environmental cleanups.

California and other state governments are worried that lead-based bullets contaminate our ecosystem. In October 2007 Governor Schwarzenegger of California signed the Ridley-Tree Condor Conservation Act, outlawing the use of lead-based bullets for hunting in reintroduction areas for the Condor.

These large birds are known to feed on scraps of meat left behind by hunters. Those scraps sometimes contain remnants of lead bullets. This can result in lead poisoning and is thought to be a contributor to Condor deaths.

We need the public to be more aware of lead’s potential to cause harm. Working towards getting the lead out of our environment and stopping the continued threat it poses to our wildlife, will be beneficial to everyone. It is up to us to help people realize the dangers left behind from lead-based bullets. If you are a hunter or if you shoot at your local firing range, then try to make the switch to “green” ammo. Think of the effect you leave behind when you don’t.  

The Future of Renewable Energy

Algae, otherwise known as “pond scum” is the preferred plant for making bio-fuels and other petrochemical replacements. Algae is among one of the fastest growing plants in the world, and about 50 percent of its weight is made up of oil. One of the best things about algae is that it can be found almost everywhere including oceans, ponds, swimming pools, and the common fishbowl. Growing algae can be used to extract the pollutants from coal-fired power plants because it thrives on a high concentration of carbon dioxide as well as nitrogen dioxide. Algae production facilities can thus be fed exhaust gases from fossil fuel power plants, and even breweries, to significantly increase productivity and clean up the air. Sounds like this “pond scum” could be the future in renewable energy.

Grown in bulk, algae oils can become feed stocks to transform the way we fuel our transportation systems. For example, the bio-fuel created from algae is being developed as an alternative jet fuel. In early January of this year, Continental jet 516 completed a two hour test flight out of Houston with one engine powered by a 50-50 blend of regular petroleum-based jet fuel, a synthetic alternative made from Jatropha (a plum-sized fruit) and algae. This was not the first flight made using Jatropha based bio-fuel. The first commercial jet flight using this kind of 50-50 blend was on December 30, 2008.  Air New Zealand used a bio-fuel blend of 50-50 Jatropha and Jet A1 fuel to power one of its Boeing 747-400’s Rolls-Royce RB211 engines. The test flight was a joint initiative between Air New Zealand, Boeing, Rolls-Royce and Honeywell’s UOP, with support from Terasol Energy. The flight took off from Auckland International Airport and lasted about two hours.

So why haven’t we seen more algae bio-fuel, you ask? The problem with making algae oils in large quantities still remains a huge challenge because researchers have yet to discover a way to produce and extract the oils in a cost effective manner. Just choosing which kind of algae to start with is a heroic task. There are well over 100,000 species, each adapted to grow in different environments at different rates, and each capable of producing different amounts of oil—or none at all. Using algae as an alternative fuel is not a new idea. The U.S. Department of Energy studied it for about 18 years, from 1978 to 1996. In 1996 the federal government decided that algae oil could never compete economically with fossil fuels. From that point on, certain companies formed to keep the hope alive. Today there are many companies out there such as Solix Biofuels, Bionavitas, Valcent Products Inc., OriginOil and Solazyme, who are researching the development of growing algae more efficiently for use as bio-fuel.  Compared to fossil fuels using and producing oils from algae is without a doubt more beneficial for the environment and all of human kind. Algae is the future of renewable energy.

Solar Power

Solar energy is the means of harnessing the light and heat from the sun in order to provide for our electrical needs. In our ever-changing society new methods and technologies in implementing this use of energy are becoming more prevalent as we look to maintain a green lifestyle. On a larger scale, such as to power our homes, technologies such as heat engines and photovoltaic systems are used generate the solar power.

While the west coast, specifically California, has been the leader in support and use of renewable energy, we are starting to see trends across the country, as the Northeast has now become the third largest market for photovoltaic systems. It is especially beneficial because of the grating electrical grids in the NE, which in time will become more stabilized and reduce problems during peak loads. On an individual level, in the home, the use of PV systems adds shading on the roof, reduces the use of AC units, and overall decreases the need for electricity.

It is not necessary to completely remodel your home with a PV system or pay for a considerable quantity of solar products in order to obtain the benefits. There are a number of solar items that can positively alter your energy bill and reduce your personal influence on the planet. One area to pay attention to is lighting. A sensible substitute is to swap basic on-grid outdoor lights with solar powered outdoor lights.

As far as inside the home there are a number of products including radios, flashlights and batteries that are solar friendly. The use of solar batteries alone, which can be helpful to a number of household products, is a great and simple way to start to utilize solar power. Solar technologies also exist for water heaters, water pumps and pool covers.

Solar products range from the practical items to the astonishing and unbelievable. There are a number of items from all prices ranges to begin to utilize this beneficial and eco friendly method of energy use.

Geothermal Spa

The word geothermal comes from the Greek words “geo” meaning earth and “thermos” meaning heat. Geothermal energy is generated from the heat stored inside the earth. With the steam and hot water produced inside the earth, we can use it to heat our buildings or generate electricity. Geothermal power plants do not burn fuel to generate electricity, so their emission levels are very low. They release less than 1 percent of the carbon dioxide emissions of a fossil fuel plant.

Some applications of geothermal energy use the earth’s temperatures near the surface, while others require drilling miles into the earth.

Direct use and district heating systems use hot water from springs or reservoirs near the surface. The direct use of hot water as an energy source has been happening since ancient times. The Chinese, Romans and Native Americans used hot mineral springs for bathing, cooking and heating. Today, many hot springs are still used for bathing, and many people believe in the natural healing powers of the hot, mineral-rich waters. The Blue Lagoon Spa in Iceland is an example of a geothermal hot spring.

After bathing, the most common direct use of geothermal energy is for heating buildings through district heating systems. Hot water near the earth’s surface can be piped directly into buildings and industries for heat. Other uses for direct heating systems include growing crops, fruits, and vegetables as well as drying lumber.

Geothermal power plants use hydrothermal resources, which have two common ingredients: water (hydro) and heat (thermal). Electricity generation in a power plant requires water or steam at very high temperature, around 300 to 700 degrees Fahrenheit. Geothermal power plants are generally built where geothermal reservoirs are located within a mile or two of the surface. The United States generates more geothermal electricity than any other country. But the amount of electricity it produces is less than one half of a percent of electricity produced in United States. So far only four states have geothermal power plants. California leads the way with 33 geothermal power plants. They produce about 90% of the nations geothermal energy. Nevada has 14 geothermal power plants and rounding out the four are Hawaii and Utah with one geothermal power plant each.

There are three types of geothermal power plants in existence. Dry steam plants use steam piped directly from a geothermal reservoir to turn the generator turbines. Flash steam plants take high-pressure hot water from deep inside the earth and convert it to steam to drive the generator turbines. When the steam cools, it condenses to water and is injected back into the ground to be used over and over again. Most geothermal power plants are flash plants. Then there are Binary power plants. These power plants transfer the heat from geothermal hot water to another liquid. The heat causes the second liquid to turn to steam, which is used to drive a generator turbine.

Remember, Geothermal Energy is a renewable energy source. This means it can be replenished in a short period of time. Water is replenished by rainfall and the heat is continuously produced inside the earth. Geothermal Energy is one of five renewable sources of energy. Others include solar, wind, hydropower and biomass. These energy sources are essential for us to live in an eco friendly world.

Traveling Green

In contemporary travel there often lies an irony between the natural beauty of the destinations that tourist seek, and the methods in which they use to implore their vacation. In order to maintain the brilliance of our global systems it is important to remain aware of the steps we take to get to them. Having a green conscious in times of travel is imperative to tend to the fine balance that exists. Following are a few suggestions on what to do before you leave, how to get to where you’re going, and how to remain green once at your destination.

Before you set off for your trip, do not overlook a few of these small tips that can keep your house eco friendly even while you’re not there. Be sure to turn off your air conditioner or heater, pending on the season, but remain conscious of the thermostat if you have plants inside. Another way to conserve energy is by unplugging appliances. Even while turned off they can still draw up to 40 watts of power. In addition, turning the outside connection to your water off will also prevent any potential problems while your gone, such as flooding.

Getting to your destination may be the most pivotal factor in travel, as well as, the area where you can make the most difference to the environment. Pending the distance and destination of your trip avoid taking a plane. Air travel is the most costly to our ecosystems, therefore allotting the most to offset. Taking a train or renting a hybrid vehicle are other plausible options. If flying is unavoidable be sure to purchase electronic tickets to avoid paper waste. Also, seek out airlines with a dedicated environmental awareness, such as British Airway and Southwest Airlines.

Evading dry land for your next excursion? If your taking to the high seas, booking a cruise ship vacation is something you may want to reconsider. According to the Bluewater Network, these ocean liners dump five to seven gallons of sewage per passenger per day in the ocean. If possible, resort to wind power, and seek out smaller charter companies that sail. This will offset a great deal of waste and most likely prove to be a more intimate and satisfying experience.

Back to the mainland here, let’s talk about hotels. Unless, you have some obscure Uncle you can shack up with in the outskirts of Barbados, you will most likely be staying at an establishment that may or may not reuse and recycle. Many hotels have linen reuse programs, but if not be conscious of your towels and bed sheets by trying to use the same ones for the length of your stay.  Keep in mind tactics used at home such as turning off AC/heat, lights, appliances, etc. Recycle any complimentary newspapers, or other paper products provided. Try to conserve, or do not use the provided toiletries. While tending to your bill at the end of the stay, or any other services through your duration, try to take advantage of electronic systems.

Also, while getting around at your destination walking where applicable is a great approach. Try and use public transportation, hotel charters, or aim to rent a hybrid friendly vehicle. Lastly, support the local establishments, shops, and eateries for your needs and entertainment.

Again, vacations are a great way to forget about the stresses of everyday life, but in a constantly changing and susceptible world, even at times of rest we must try to not overlook our eco responsibilities.

Weather winter or summer, effectively controlling the temperature in the extreme seasons is the first step towards change.  Efficiently insulating your home will keep the heat contained in the winter, and out in the summer.

Using blankets in the winter, instead of heaters will significantly reduce your energy consumption, as well as, make your pocket a little “greener” too. Using organic cotton, and bamboo sheets will help you steer clear of synthetic chemicals. Down and wool comforts are an effective way to trap in the heat and keep you insulated throughout the night.

During the summer, the use of air conditioners is another beast of energy and cost consumption. Opening doors, and windows, in addition to the use of fans, will keep the air in motion. And strategically placing curtains or blinds in areas where the sun penetrates will help block it out.

When it comes to interior decoration and furniture steer towards anything vintage or organic. Thrift stores, the Salvation Army, or even your local classifieds are a great way to find good deals.

If you’re in the market for a new mattress, seek out one made of unrefined materials or one that is emission free. Latex is another option, but avoid conventional mattresses, which can emit gas chemicals.

If you’re going to be redecorating and are looking for paint seek out cans with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These chemicals can emit toxic fumes, even long after painting is done. Also, keep your eye out for the Green Seal stamp of approval found on some cans.

Redoing the floors? Look for carpet that comes from recycled materials. Going hardwood? There are a number of companies certified by the Forest Stewardship Council with approved products from responsible forest management practices.

At the end of the day keeping in the mind the three R’s…Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, is a great approach to keep costs down and to maintain a green lifestyle.

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Companies who can consider themselves green are reducing their carbon footprint in some way. Look for key phrases such as recycled materials, organic ingredients, sustainable wood, hybrid or alternatively fueled vehicles. These methods are evidence that companies are reducing their impact on the earth as well as our future in this extraordinary world.

Clean or renewable energy is one of the biggest reasons ordinary companies can say they are helping the environment and are being green. This kind of energy is generated from natural resources, such as geothermal, wind and solar power. Clean energy is the future of our eco world.

New technologies are emerging everyday and with that come new ideas to reduce our impact on the environment. It is up to us to find these products and services to help reduce our impact on the environment. LivinEco.com is here to help you do that. Remember…This is an eco world, we just live in it.