From energy-intensive production to e-waste generation, electronic devices are a major contributor to the climate crisis throughout their lifecycle. Understanding how electronics contribute to carbon emissions allows individuals to make informed choices to reduce their impact and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle.

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From the moment it is manufactured to the moment it is discarded, electronic devices leave an environmental trail. The production is a particularly power-intensive process, requiring the extraction of rare Earth metals and complex production processes that generate significant emissions.

Once in use, electronics contribute even more emissions, especially with the skyrocketing demand for web-surfing, social media, streaming, and video conferencing. In fact, these digital activities can account for up to 40% of the per capita carbon budget necessary to limit global warming to 1.5. Not to mention artificial intelligence. Disposal is the final challenge, with less than a quarter of all e-waste currently being recycled. Improper e-waste management releases toxic chemicals and worsens pollution. 

Understanding how a device’s life cycle impacts the environment lets individuals take steps to reduce their digital carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

How to Measure the Environmental Impact of Technology

Three key metrics stand out in the carbon footprint of electronic devices: electricity usage, manufacturing emissions, and e-waste generation. 

Many do not realize how small, everyday habits can add up. For example, a single year of incoming emails can generate 136 kilograms of carbon emissions — the same as driving 320 kilometers (198.8 miles) in an average car.

Streaming videos, web browsing and cloud storage contribute to energy consumption, too, especially in regions where power comes from fossil fuels. By tracking personal tech use — like monitoring screen time or managing storage — people can pinpoint areas for improvement. Likewise, deleting unnecessary emails, unplugging chargers or activating energy-saving settings can significantly reduce a digital carbon footprint and make tech use more sustainable.

The Role of Electronic Devices in Accelerating Climate Change

E-waste is becoming one of the fastest-growing environmental challenges, with millions of discarded devices piling up in landfills every year. These electronics release toxic chemicals like lead, mercury and cadmium, which seep into soil and water, harming ecosystems and human health. As consumers upgrade their gadgets more frequently, the volume of e-waste continues to climb.

On the digital front, data centers drive a surge in carbon emissions as cloud-based services expand. Powering and cooling these massive facilities requires enormous amounts of electricity, much of which still comes from fossil fuels. Streaming videos, storing files in the cloud and running digital communications all contribute to this growing demand.

By 2040, digital data storage could account for 14% of the world’s total emissions — the same amount the US emitted in 2021. Combined with the demand from everyday products like smart devices, the digital world’s reliance on fossil fuels accelerates climate change. Without a shift to cleaner sources and more sustainable tech habits, the environmental impact of the digital age will only intensify.

How Everyday Gadgets Add Up

Everyday tech accessories like chargers and earbuds come with hidden environmental costs that often go unnoticed. These seemingly small gadgets require power-intensive manufacturing processes and resource extraction, leaving a considerable carbon footprint. Adding to the problem is planned obsolescence — where products are deliberately designed to have shorter lifespans, which pushes consumers to replace devices more frequently.

This constant cycle of upgrades creates a surge in e-waste and further depletes valuable resources. As a result, human activities — including unchecked electronic consumption — have driven global temperatures to increase over the past 200 years. The significant increase has resulted in severe consequences for ecosystems and weather patterns.

On a global scale, the cumulative impact of electronic consumption is staggering. Billions of devices — from the smallest to larger electronics — collectively contribute to emissions through production, usage and disposal. While individual accessories may seem insignificant, the sheer number of these hardware worldwide amplifies their environmental toll. Combined with the constant demand for newer models, this unsustainable cycle accelerates the climate crisis.

Steps to Reduce Your Electronic Carbon Footprint

Reducing the carbon footprint of electronic devices doesn’t require drastic changes — small, intentional steps can make a big difference. Making smarter choices can minimize waste, conserve energy and help combat climate change.

Before Purchase

One of the simplest ways to lower electronics’ environmental impact is to buy refurbished or second-hand gear. Choosing pre-owned tech extends the life span of existing products and reduces the need for new manufacturing, which is a major source of carbon emissions and resource depletion. 

For those who prefer buying new products, opting for efficient models is practical. Devices with certifications like Energy Star minimize electricity consumption and lower emissions over time. Prioritizing refurbished gadgets and alternative options can reduce digital footprints while saving money.

During Use

Optimizing consumption is a simple yet impactful way to reduce the environmental impact of electronic equipment. Many continue to draw power when turned off — a phenomenon known as “phantom energy” — which adds to waste and unnecessary emissions. Unplugging chargers and using smart power strips can help prevent this hidden drain.

Updating software and replacing worn-out batteries can also extend the lifespan of electronics, reducing the need for new ones. Individuals can use renewable sources like solar chargers to power smaller devices for a greater impact. These steps conserve power and create a more sustainable relationship with technology.

After Use

Recycling electronics is crucial in tackling the growing e-waste crisis. Between 2014 and 2020, greenhouse gas emissions from electronics and their associated e-waste increased by 53%. Certified e-waste recycling programs are essential in recovering valuable materials like metals and plastics while safely managing toxic chemicals that could otherwise harm the environment. Sensitive materials like hard drives can be shredded or degaussed with a magnet so that items can be recycled immediately without data leak risks. 

Individuals can donate or resell devices that still work, giving them a second life and reducing the demand for new production. These actions can help cut emissions, conserve resources and minimize the harmful effects of discarded electronics on the planet. 

Small Changes Lead to Big Environmental Impact

Recycling electronics responsibly and reducing electricity consumption may seem like small acts, but they can create a significant impact when millions of people do them. Sustainable habits and holding industries accountable can reduce emissions and protect the planet for future generations.

The post The Hidden Environmental Cost of Your Devices And Actionable Steps to Reduce It appeared first on Earth.Org.

In our contemporary society, the prevalence of throwaway culture has reached unprecedented levels, reshaping the ways in which we interact with goods and resources. This article delves into the complexities of throwaway culture, exploring its origins, implications, and the urgent need for sustainable alternatives in a world accustomed to fleeting convenience.

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Before the days of instant orders, overnight shipping, and mass production, people created clothes and other items that lasted for years. Nowadays, you can find everything you need in a single click or tap on a screen. It might make life easier, but there is no doubt that it is much worse for the planet.

Throwaway culture is the practice of throwing something out after a single use. It can also include things that end up in landfills after a few days or weeks of usage.

Examples of Throwaway Culture Waste

There is no way to make everything last forever, so what counts as throwaway waste? These are a few examples of how people knowingly or accidentally contribute to climate change.

1. Fast Fashion

Major fashion brands produce seasonal styles, but consumer fashion companies create new products much faster. Your favourite stores or apps likely introduce new clothes weekly. It is a form of throwaway culture called fast fashion, which produces 92 million tons of waste annually on a global scale.

The fast fashion industry is the second-biggest consumer of water and is responsible for about 10% of global carbon emissions – more than all international flights and maritime shipping combined.

Fast fashion encourages people to buy new clothes for just a few dollars and throw away their out-of-style clothing. The out-of-style looks are often clothes created just weeks or months ago. The excess fabrics and products sit in landfills for decades, leading to environmental pollution.

You might also like: Fast Fashion and Its Environmental Impact

2. Traditional Construction Methods

When individuals set out to purchase a residential or commercial property, the construction practices involved often contribute significantly to global warming. Heavy machinery powered by fossil fuels operates for months on end, while construction teams generate substantial waste in the form of discarded scaffolding, concrete, and surplus building materials.

The alarming levels of waste generated by the construction industry have spurred experts to devise more sustainable building methods to meet the growing demand for infrastructure. The advent of green construction techniques not only benefits the environment but also promotes better health for all. Forward-thinking construction teams now employ zero-emission materials and cutting-edge air filtration systems to minimize carbon dioxide emissions and safeguard air quality.

You might also like: 5 Ways the Construction Industry Is Getting Greener

3. Coffee Pods

Coffee pods are another examples of an everyday item contributing to our throwaway culture. While convenience has driven the popularity of these products, their environmental impact is undeniable.

Around 39,000 capsules are produced every minute globally, with up to 29,000 of these ending up in landfill.

Plastic coffee pods have inundated our waterways with pollutants, endangering aquatic life globally. Opting for reusable or compostable alternatives can significantly reduce your ecological footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.

4. Six-Pack Rings

Similarly, the ubiquity of plastic six-pack rings poses a grave threat to our ecosystems, as these materials often end up in landfills after a single use. Choosing beverages that eschew plastic packaging can help mitigate environmental harm and lessen your carbon footprint.

5. Paper Towels

Even seemingly innocuous items like paper towels, used in households on a daily basis, have a detrimental effect on the environment. The deforestation required to produce these disposable products, coupled with their slow decomposition in landfills, underscores the urgent need for more sustainable alternatives such as hand towels or washcloths.

Live a More Sustainable Lifestyle

Adopting a more sustainable lifestyle is not only beneficial for the planet but also for personal well-being. By making conscious choices to reduce single-use waste, whether by engaging with eco-conscious construction practices or embracing biodegradable alternatives in daily routines, individuals can play a vital role in minimising their carbon footprint and fostering a healthier, more environmentally friendly world for future generations.”

This article was originally published on December 21, 2022.

You might also like: The Truth About Online Shopping and Its Environmental Impact

The post Throwaway Culture Is Drowning Us in Waste appeared first on Earth.Org.

Advanced biophilic and sustainable design is gaining traction as architects and developers recognize its decisive role in achieving net-zero carbon goals. 

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This approach goes beyond reducing emissions. It enhances the quality of life by connecting occupants with nature, optimizing light and improving air quality while cutting down energy use.

Advanced sustainable designs can reduce consumption with high-impact materials like low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, high-performance insulation and living green systems. These features make them essential for climate-conscious projects. Investing in these eco-friendly strategies fosters a more harmonious future for people and the planet.

Advanced Biophilic Design in Modern Architecture

Biophilic design is evolving far beyond adding greenery to urban landscapes. Today’s architects create ecosystems within buildings to help foster nature’s essential benefits in dense urban areas. Experts believe the shift toward biophilic architecture can drive sustainability by embedding natural processes into everyday spaces, helping to address urban challenges like resource scarcity and limited access to green areas.

Through innovative features like living walls, rooftop gardens and green corridors, biophilic design reconnects people with nature. It creates urban ecosystems that support biodiversity, manage stormwater and improve air quality. This approach positions buildings as active contributors to urban sustainability, bringing nature’s systems into spaces where they are often missing.

The synergy between biomimicry and biophilia drives this transformation as architects increasingly look to nature for inspiration. By mimicking processes like the self-cooling techniques of termite mounds or the efficient energy capture of leaves, architects can craft buildings that optimize electricity use and create healthier environments for occupants.

Biophilic design offers measurable benefits, from increased thermal comfort and productivity to enhanced emotional well-being. It improves the look of urban spaces and builds a sustainable environment that supports the planet and its inhabitants.

Low-Emissivity Glass in Advanced Sustainable Design

Low-E glass has become fundamental in advanced sustainable design because it offers powerful energy-saving benefits without sacrificing natural light. Minimizing heat transfer and reducing glare help create comfortable, efficient indoor environments that support environmental goals.

The Nature of Low-E Glass

Low-E glass coatings come in two main types – soft-coat and hard-coat. Each offers unique benefits for energy performance in buildings. 

Soft-coat Low-E glass provides excellent insulation by reflecting infrared energy, making it ideal for retaining indoor heat in cooler climates. It works best in double- or multipane windows because it is more delicate than hard-coat Low-E glass, which is fused during manufacturing. This process creates a more durable surface suitable for single-pane windows, though hard-coat glass does not insulate as effectively as soft-coat alternatives.

Spectrally selective coatings add versatility by filtering out infrared heat while allowing visible light to pass through. These coatings are particularly valuable in warm climates. They help reduce cooling costs by keeping interiors bright without heat gain, making Low-E glass a key component in energy-efficient, comfortable buildings year-round.

Thermal and Visual Comfort

Low-E glass allows natural light to enter while blocking unwanted heat, helping maintain a stable thermal envelope. Traditional windows can lead to major energy loss, with up to 25% to 30% of residential usage and about 30% in commercial buildings stemming from heat that passes through windows.

Low-E glass reduces this loss by reflecting infrared energy. It keeps interiors cooler during hot months and warmer in the winter, lessening reliance on heating and cooling systems. This selective control of heat and light allows for bright, naturally lit spaces without the added costs.

Integrative Applications

Using Low-E glass with passive solar design and dynamic shading optimizes energy management. Passive solar methods focus on strategically orienting and designing structures to harness sunlight for natural heating in winter. Meanwhile, they block the harsh summer sun to keep interiors cool.

When paired with dynamic shading solutions – such as automated blinds or exterior shades – buildings can adjust to changing light conditions throughout the day. This smart combination reduces energy costs and maximizes natural light, making interiors bright and inviting while reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling.

Sustainable Design Principles for High-Performance Spaces

Design principles for high-performance spaces aim to create resilient buildings that benefit the environment and occupants. Steps like reducing embodied carbon, maximizing resource efficiency and improving indoor air quality can support ecological goals and human health.

Carbon-Neutral Goals

Net-zero design targets innovative, sustainable architecture. It pushes for buildings that balance the energy they consume with the renewable energy they generate. A big part of this goal focuses on reducing embodied carbon – the hidden carbon footprint tied to producing and transporting building resources and the construction process.

The use of sustainable materials like recycled steel or low-carbon concrete creates buildings with lower embodied carbon and longer, more efficient life cycles. This is essential because nearly 40% of the country’s carbon footprint comes from electricity alone. Combining smart material choices with practical design elements lowers a building’s environmental impact and supports a cleaner, greener future.

Material Transparency and Life Cycle Assessment

Full life cycle analysis helps architects and developers make material choices that benefit the environment long-term. This approach considers the entire journey of the material – from production and transport to use and disposal – to ensure the environmental impact is low at every stage. 

Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) are crucial in this process because they offer transparent, standardized data on a material’s carbon footprint, energy consumption and emissions. With EPDs, designers can make informed choices aligned with sustainability goals. They can select materials that support a building’s efficiency and eco-friendliness from start to finish. By focusing on full life cycle analysis and EPDs, designers can reduce emissions and set up projects to be environmentally responsible for decades.

Operational and Embodied Energy

To create eco-friendly spaces, sustainable design must address energy usage during a building’s life along with its embodied energy. Buildings in the US account for 75% of all electricity use, underscoring the need to cut operational and embodied energy to move closer to ecological goals.

Usage during a building’s life covers everything needed for daily operations, from heating and cooling to lighting and appliances. Strategies to lower this rate include installing efficient HVAC systems, using LED lighting and drawing on renewable sources like solar power.

Choosing low-impact materials – like recycled metals or low-carbon concrete – can reduce a building’s environmental footprint before it is occupied.

Integrating Sustainable Materials 

Incorporating Low-E glass and other efficient materials into biophilic and sustainable design can greatly enhance a building’s energy performance and environmental impact. The careful choice of resources and design elements creates spaces that maximize natural light, reduce demands and foster a deep connection with nature. 

You can integrate Low-E glass and other sustainable materials into your biophilic design through these practical steps:

• Define energy and environmental goals: Establish clear efficiency and sustainability targets to guide material and design choices based on project needs.
• Analyze climate considerations: To optimize heat retention or reflection, select the appropriate type of Low-E glass based on local climate conditions. For example, flat glass covers over 50% of the exterior surface area in modern skyscrapers. However, it conducts heat quickly and results in higher consumption.
• Consult with sustainability experts: Engage a consultant to conduct a life cycle assessment, ensuring materials have low embodied carbon and high EPDs.
• Orient the building for solar benefits: Plan window placements and building orientation to leverage passive solar heating in colder months and avoid excess heat gain in warmer months.
• Incorporate dynamic shading systems: Use automated blinds or louvers to adjust shading and allow natural light without excessive heat.
• Add biophilic elements thoughtfully: Integrate natural materials, living walls and green roofs to enhance indoor air quality and foster a stronger connection with nature.
• Target green building certifications: Aim for certifications like LEED or WELL, which provide a framework for incorporating sustainable practices and efficient materials throughout the design process.

These steps create structures that meet performance standards and enrich occupants’ connection with the natural environment.

Exploring these advanced strategies for incorporating Low-E glass and sustainable materials allows architects to push the boundaries of what’s possible in environmental design. By adopting these techniques, it’s possible to create areas that are energy-efficient and deeply connected to nature.

You might also like: Exploring the Economic and Social Benefits of Sustainable Buildings

The post A Guide to Biophilic and Sustainable Design With Low-Emissivity Glass and Other Efficient Materials appeared first on Earth.Org.

Biogas is one of the most revolutionary options in transportation fuels. The construction and industrial sectors are so reliant on fossil fuel-powered fleets that they need a more environmentally conscious alternative. Biogas provides climate boons in addition to a long list of other advantages. If corporations implement it, how could it change the future of these sectors?

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As the industry continues to educate itself about biogas and its advantages, it may consider transitioning to sourcing it from third parties or producing it internally. Corporations simply require access to organic waste to facilitate the breakdown process and capture the gases emitted. Feedstocks may include food scraps, plant matter, sewage or animal waste.

Biogas production occurs through anaerobic digestion in an oxygen-free enclosed environment. This process yields a mixture of gases, utilized as a sustainable alternative to natural gas, particularly in powering construction vehicles and urban transportation, offering an eco-friendly solution to fuel needs.

Biogas is also retrievable from one of the most destructive environments in existence: landfills. Anaerobic decomposition and other processes occur as the landfill ages, releasing biogas in the form of 50-70% methane and 30-50% carbon dioxide, among other gases.

Biogas, that for this reason is sometimes also called biomethane, is a plentiful and accessible resource needed to reduce the emissions of some of the world’s most polluting sectors, and both the construction industry and cities must adopt it. Ignoring all other forms of transit, construction fleets alone account for 2.4-5.5% of carbon emissions. Overall, the construction sector is estimated to use around 40% of the world’s energy, an amount only set to increase with further urbanization and population growth. In turn, transportation is responsible for 23% of global carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel combustion. 

Decarbonizing both construction and urban transportation systems with biogas is possible by observing land use patterns, advocating for low-carbon options, and making sustainable options desirable and viable.

Utilization

Construction fleets and cities have put biogas into practice en masse, showing what it could be like at scale if more organizations relied on it to power their operations. 

Advantages

Governments and organizations would benefit from investing in biogas capture. The most apparent benefit is reduced emissions. Biogas has a lower greenhouse gas impact than any fossil fuel. Using a combustion-free method allows for cleaner air on construction sites and city centers, which in turn would improve public health.

Moreover, the production of biogas is more cost-effective than burning fossil fuels. Studies conducted at a biogas plant in India have demonstrated that the plant can reduce energy expenses by 20-30%.

By utilizing 100 tons of compressed biogas daily to substitute compressed natural gas, the environmental impact is akin to removing 24,030 cars from the roads for a year. When resources are readily available, biogas emerges as an economical alternative, diminishing a nation’s reliance on external energy sources. This consistency in production costs leads to affordable and consistent energy pricing for businesses and consumers, extending beyond the realms of construction and public transportation.

For instance, in the US, several starch-producing cassava processing facilities employ anaerobic biodigesters coupled with reciprocating generator sets to harness biogas. These facilities utilize biogas to generate their own power, thereby cutting costs and reducing reliance on heavy fuel oil and grid electricity. Additionally, some farms and industries that operate heavy machinery utilize livestock feeder operations to capture and store substantial amounts of livestock manure. Instead of releasing methane and carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, they convert biogas into fuel for specialized engines.

The bioavailability and renewability of biogas are also advantageous, given supply chain struggles and the continually diminishing supply of finite natural resources. Construction companies and cities could have autonomy over feedstock production. Energy independence improves societal stability, giving polluting industries like urban transportation and construction an improved public image in a climate-conscious world. Cities known for their robust public transport systems can further boost their reputation and potentially increase population by leveraging sustainable fuels.

Challenges

Biogas infrastructure is still limited around the world, a factor that is hindering widespread adoption. Corporations interested in becoming biogas stakeholders must advocate for legislation to promote buildout, much like how the US Inflation Reduction Act encouraged solar and geothermal technology expansion. This will also help ease initial investment costs in the needed technologies. 

Vehicle and machinery makers will also need to make cars compatible with biomethane. Focusing on making future cars biomethane-compatible is critical, but retrofitting existing models with biogas can begin the transition sooner. For example, the bioCNG retrofit methodology has already been successfully tested on a bus and tractor. Testing by other companies continues, opening the way for diesel-powered vehicles to be transformed into biomethane-fueled ones.

Case Studies

Several cities have already incorporated this type of energy. Swedish capital Stockholm has integrated it into some of its public transportation, including buses and trucks, as a promise to the region’s air quality and emission reduction efforts. Sweden’s successful implementation of biogas in some of their cars, buses and trucks inspired research in Morocco to see if it could make its own biogas to fuel 300 buses. Morocco imports 91% of its energy so the initiative would be a monumental win for energy independence and eliminating fossil fuel reliance. Simulations suggested a transition is possible.

Bristol in the UK has made  similar strides in exploring biogas in public transport. Its biomethane-powered buses can travel 300 kilometers (186 miles). Over those distances, they make up to 30% less carbon emissions and 80% less nitrogen oxides.

Construction companies have several options to help with biogas production. They can either help build biogas plants while transitioning to more sustainable practices or use biogas-powered construction vehicle fleets. Mortenson Construction has helped Maryland’s Montgomery County expand sustainable public transit through a new biogas-enabled facility. The project, which forms part of the County’s goal to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2035, will reduce the lifetime emissions of local buses by an estimated 155,000 tons.

Integration in Urban Transport Systems and Construction

Infrastructure Buildout

The first step to integrating biogas in transport systems and construction is to address infrastructure requirements. Biogas fueling stations must be readily accessible for public transit and long-distance construction haulers. Research to determine the most frequent routes these industries use would permit strategic placement.

Adoption and expansion of biogas in transportation and other sectors will require convenience and accessibility to infrastructure. Effective infrastructure will require stations being connected to production facilities, and these facilities will need to be convenient for public transport, construction vehicles and other fleet owners interested in renewable energy to access. This accessibility and builtout infrastructure will need the involvement and funding of various stakeholders, including the private sector to promote biogas energy to the market and make this energy source commercially viable. Other stakeholders may include governments, financial institutions, the media, lobby groups and local communities. 

With various stakeholders onboard, fleet owners in various sectors will then consider investing in renewable vehicles and fleets.  

Organizations can work with existing landfills to start production. The US has 475 million cubic feet of biogas escaping daily from 450 neglected landfills. Connecting to these would be an immediate energy pipeline.

Regulatory Action

Laws provide much needed incentives for choosing biogas, and standardization will make it consistent and viable. Everyone from urban planners to construction engineers must contribute insights to regulatory agencies to inform early framework drafts. This will make biogas as sustainable as possible and enforce requirements for construction companies and urban development.

Public Awareness

Education is the pillar of expansion. If the public is aware of the benefits of biogas, it will advocate for its adoption on a city or company’s behalf, too. Using bioavailable materials also engages citizens in circular economic mindsets, expanding their perception of a greener society by finding cleaner transportation formats with renewable options.

Future Outlook and Recommendations

With infrastructure buildout, regulatory action and public awareness, the future of biogas could be lucrative and optimistic for planetary emissions. Increased interest means greater investments and expanded research on biogas refinement. This could heighten the purity to work better in technologies or prove certain concentrations have better fuel economy than others.

Biogas blending is also being researched. It could be the intermediary fuel option before complete adoption. Stations could mix natural gas with biogas as vehicles and equipment retrofits, allowing for a gradual adoption while still reducing emissions. 

Individuals may also assume responsibility for biogas production. Other biofuels, like biodiesel, can be made at home with a few ingredients. What is stopping households and smaller construction businesses from decentralizing biogas production? It could offset costs, alleviate accessibility burdens for rural operations, and engage local populations in renewable topics.

Biogas has as much potential to change urban regions and the construction industry as any other renewable energy. The only factor standing in its way is public interest informed by education. Sharing knowledge about the benefits of readily available, usable biogas could motivate corporations to take the initiative. Collaboration and advocacy are key to transforming fossil fuel-dependent machinery and vehicles, especially in high-polluting sectors.

The post Biogas: A Game Changer for Construction Fleet and Urban Transport Emissions appeared first on Earth.Org.

A growing interest in home decor and sustainability has millennials rethinking how they decorate their spaces and what materials they use. When it comes to fast furniture, millennials want something different – more durable, unique and kind to the planet. Antique and reclaimed wood have continued to fill people’s homes, impacting the style and feel of rooms and reducing their carbon footprint. Here’s how millennials have taken an environmentally friendly approach to furniture design.

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Mass-produced furniture – usually referred to as “fast furniture” – is manufactured rapidly and inexpensively and sold at big-name retailers or online. Often, the materials are of lower quality and prone to breaking or other damage, resulting in frequent repairs and excess waste.

Fast furniture typically contains less sustainable and durable materials, such as a particle board console with a laminate coating, which is difficult to fix. Lumpy or flat furniture cushions are easier to replace. Fast furniture may also contain harmful chemicals and carcinogens like formaldehyde, benzene and vinyl acetate. 

Cheaply-made furniture is not meant to last very long – desks and beds from major retailers have a lifespan of about five years, on average. Of course, this results in overflowing landfills. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, in 2018 furniture accounted for 4.1% of landfill waste (12.1 million metric tons), compared to 2.2 million metric tons in 1960. 

Millennials have moved away from such materials to furnish their homes. According to research, this demographic of homeowners now leans into the “grandmillennial style” – an integration of clean, contemporary design and older interiors reminiscent of a grandmother’s home. This helps them create a sense of familiarity and nostalgia in their space.

Sustainability is also at play. According to one study, 62% of millennials prefer to buy from sustainable brands, while 68% are willing to spend more on environmentally friendly products. 

Anna Brockway – the co-founder of online vintage furniture retailer Chairish – correlates the findings with a consumer study conducted by her company. She says 58% of millennials agree the resale market is sustainable. Antique furniture is also about 80% less expensive to furnish your home with unique, older items. 

Benefits of Antique and Reclaimed Materials

There are numerous reasons why millennials opt for antique or reclaimed materials to furnish their houses. Salvaged wood adds warmth, comfort and rustic charm to any space. Sometimes, these materials also maintain historical significance, making a great conversation starter. Above all else, their sustainability is most important to people and the environment.

Ecological Impact

Forests maintain significant commercial value. Raw wood materials are used throughout construction and manufacturing, yet their extraction contributes to widespread deforestation. This has been particularly detrimental to global warming impacts and biodiversity loss.

According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), between 2010 and 2020, the net loss in forests globally was 4.7 million hectares per year. However, deforestation rates were much higher. FAO estimates that 10 million hectares of forest are cut down each year.

Unfortunately, much of deforestation occurs in the tropics, where rich species have intricate relationships with the ecosystem and are greatly affected by human logging. Brazil is responsible for 136 cubic millimeters of global industrial wood production, including furniture construction. About 12.9 cubic millimeters are derived from native forests, while an additional 34%-95% come from illegal logging.

More on the topic: 10 Deforestation Facts You Should Know About

Using antique and reclaimed wood materials for furniture and finishes prevents further deforestation of the world’s most precious woodland ecosystems. Giving older natural materials a second life in design also reduces waste and decreases the amount of carbon dioxide released from timber extraction and transportation.

Durability

Reclaimed and antique furnishings are popular among millennials because of their durability. For instance, antique wood materials produced from trees 100-300 years ago came from forests left unspoiled for centuries.  

Wood’s dense fibers and tight tree rings are attributed to its long natural growth period, making it more resistant to termites and rot. Wood has also undergone numerous cycles of expansion and contraction from humidity fluctuations – a reason why reclaimed plank flooring withstands warping better. 

Overall, millennials feel assured that salvaged wood materials will last a long time with proper care, avoiding the need to replace their furniture repeatedly.

Unique Aesthetics

Because today’s homeowners want to fill their homes with unique pieces, salvaged and historic wood materials allow them to build customized furniture from whatever is available. Subtle aesthetic designs could include reclaimed wood for a fireplace mantel, open shelves or a headboard. They might also install old wood beams on the ceiling.

The unique textures, grains and other imperfections add warmth to each space, much more than today’s mass-produced finishes. This leaves millennials with the one-of-a-kind appearance they want. 

How to Take a Sustainable Stance on Home Furniture

You can also choose a sustainable stance on furniture by avoiding fast production like so many millennials have. Leaning into antique and reclaimed wood materials will enhance your interior style’s timeless appeal and sustainability. Here are three ways to utilize environmentally friendly wood in your furniture options. 

1. Make Conscious Purchasing Decisions

Do your research when buying antique lumber, including where and when it originated, how it was processed and whether it has been labeled by the Forest Stewardship Council or Cradle to Cradle. These certifications ensure the wood is sustainable, of premium quality and made to last.

Always examine the materials’ condition before purchasing. Are there signs of structural deterioration? You should also check for pest damage, such as woodworms. While these are not deal-breakers when buying salvaged materials, they may require restoration or treatment to return the wood to its former glory without compromising its character.

1. Source antique and reclaimed materials locally

Lumber accounts for 34% of carbon emissions when shipped from the manufacturer to the consumer. As such, you will want to source antique and reclaimed wood furniture materials locally. Nearby antique stores are a treasure trove of unique pieces, while salvage yards, barns and industrial buildings often have abundant reclaimed, affordable options, such as doors and window frames.  

You can also find plenty of antique and reclaimed wood furnishings online, through social media or online auctions. Don’t forget the power of word-of-mouth recommendations, connecting with local artisans and attending community craft fairs to find the best sustainable materials.

2. DIY with sustainable materials

There are endless possibilities for do-it-yourself furniture using reclaimed and antique wood materials. For example, you could use old wooden doors to make a headboard or reclaimed wood planks to build a coffee table. 

Salvaged metal and glass can inspire other types of home decor and furniture, even when used to embellish wood pieces. Antique glass bottles could make beautiful vases, while recycled glass can be used to create mosaic or epoxy tabletops. 

3. Buy second-hand items

You can always invest in actual antique furniture for your home. Reusing a secondhand piece is one less newly manufactured furnishing. 

Antique malls, thrift shops and consignment stores are ideal places to find beautifully curated items in your community. Flea markets, garage sales and fairs are other sources. 

Remember to check out online marketplaces for antique furniture or tools, such as Facebook Marketplace, to see who sells antique treasures nearby. 

Antique and reclaimed wood furniture delivers the quintessential rustic charm for a pleasing aesthetic while saving the planet. Although there is nothing wrong with modern flair, taking a stance on the small aspects adds up and helps create a more eco-conscious world.

The post Antique vs. Fast Furniture: Study Shows Millennials Take a Sustainable Stance appeared first on Earth.Org.

In eastern Asia, dead palms lay forgotten in fields, waiting to become a beacon of sustainable energy. Fortunately, researchers are taking advantage of these found materials, discovering ways they could revolutionize biomass power generation. The promising findings are cursory steps in reducing the need for virgin materials and eliminating the negative side effects of biofuel production.

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Malaysia and Japan’s Palm Experiments

Researchers in Malaysia and Japan are trying to renew biomass energy with felled palm trees. The concept has been in development since 2018, and operations are currently unfolding in southern Malaysia, in the town of Kluang. Although trees, particularly palms, appear to be a promising source of biomass feedstock, they are burdened with impurities that render them less suitable for processing.

The partnering universities put dead palm trunks into a machine, grinding them down into fiber piles within seconds. Their machine would remove impurities in the process, shaping the powder into pellets for boilers.

From a reduction perspective, Asian palms have a distinct advantage over other biomass feedstocks. Their water content is between 70-80%, making them soft and easier to mulch. Additionally, they contain tons of sap, which opens the door for more sustainable applications, such as green aviation fuels. Any unused materials can be repurposed as fertilizer, assisting local agriculture.

The studies clarify that biofuel is not the only application for dead palms. Furniture makers could lower deforestation rates by crafting pieces from these sturdy trunks. A wood board company sent its palm-originated boards to 15 furniture makers to test on a variety of pieces. Japan has successfully manufactured and sold palm-based items since 2022, demonstrating their commercial potential.

Better Biomass

Biofuels and biomass production may become more prevalent renewable energy generators on the planet. However, several problems keep them from reaching their full potential. The palm tree research provides a glimpse into what needs repairing within the biomass sector to make it more sustainable and circular.

Should trees remain in groves to support healthy soils and encourage new growth? While this is the logic for many plant varieties, decomposing palms may invite more harm than good. In their wake, termites and other unwelcome fungi flourish. Additionally, each tree releases 1.3 tons of greenhouse gasses as it dies, making it more impactful to repurpose them before they do.

One issue these experts solve is palm oil’s negative environmental impact. It is among the most hot-button topics in sustainability as the world’s most used vegetable-based oil. Malaysia and Indonesia are top users of the product, making the research’s impact more meaningful. Naturally, this outfit requires swaths of palm groves, which have overtaken countless acres of land and destroyed other forests to make room for this profitable venture.

The land needed to meet global palm oil demand increased tenfold between 1970 and 2020, totaling 30 million hectares. This is more than any other vegetable oil crop, including soybeans, sunflowers and coconuts. Extracting necessary resources from these dead palms is a sustainable option for the palm oil and biomass market. 

More on the topic: The Challenges of Sustainable Palm Oil Production and Consumption

Palm Tree Progress

The research provides an optimistic perspective on the future of palm oil and environmental rehabilitation. But what do stakeholders need to make it commercially viable?

Palm tree recycling looks good on paper, but it is never sustainable to transport heavy trees long distances to recycling plants. Machinery is also resource-intensive. The equipment required for oil palm field cultivation accounts for 96.08% of its energy. The damage caused at this phase would make a life cycle analysis for these materials look unsustainable. Even for recycled palm trees, the entire value chain and all scopes of emissions would need to be accounted for.

The circular mindset of tree recycling will need to be paired with technological shifts, like electrification or lean processing practices to reduce waste and energy consumption.

These experts and biotechnologists can only see their vision come to life by partnering with oil extractors and grove managers. A compelling pitch must incentivize them to dispose of their waste ethically. If they hand their products to recyclers, then they could get low- to no-cost resources in return. 

The setup is probable because it benefits all parties by appealing to corporate interests. Dead palm recycling stakeholders can convince them further by suggesting it will help adhere to environmental, social and governance (ESG) frameworks with minimal effort.

Commercial and Consumer Impact

The implications of the palm oil research will change how people purchase palm-based products. Sustainable certifications and labels are one of the most critical components of any corporate social responsibility strategy, so it will not be long before these materials receive similar third-party checks. An external evaluation will prove palm materials are properly recycled and grown in ethical operations, akin to the responsibilities of the Forest Stewardship Council. 

As these guidelines become clarified, eco-friendly palm wood could be used to make carbon-friendly flooring, food products, biofuel pellets or construction materials. Eventually, a sustainable offering will be created to combat palm products made from environmentally destructive sources. 

However, the most significant impact will be on cost-effective, accessible biomass feedstocks. Boilers and stoves could now accept palm products when it was a challenge before because of impurities. There were few examples of manufacturing outfits producing palm-based biomass products at scale, and many default to compressed wood or other options. 

Buyers from all perspectives will also feel a reduction in climate anxiety and the weight of individual responsibility. Researchers show workers harvested only 10% of fresh fruit bunches from Malaysian palms. Typically, the remainder contributes to palm groves’ carbon footprints as they die, as milling equipment and operations remain inefficient. When companies recycle dead palms and get more out of each tree, consumers will feel less guilty about these items.

Dead Plant Research Is on Fire

Malaysia and Japan could see palm tree recycling facilities operate in the coming years. The advancement inspires corporations to find accessible implementations to boost sustainability in one of the most toxic sectors.

It also alleviates the burden on businesses and individual consumers, who fear their adverse climate impact of palm oil. These efforts should catalyze further creative ideation in the biomass and biofuel world to reduce overfarming and deforestation.

The post From Dead Palms to Sustainable Energy Solutions: How Asia Is Maximizing Biomass Fuel appeared first on Earth.Org.

The construction industry has long been a significant contributor to greenhouse gasses and climate change. As such, the sector has sought greener building standards as an alternative to conventional structures. Declare labels have proven to be a viable approach to product transparency — a powerful resource for contractors, building designers and consumers interested in using sustainable materials. Highlighting the eco-friendliness of building components allows stakeholders to make sounder decisions for environmental and public health. 

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The climate crisis has inspired a wave of ecologically sound building projects targeting reduced emissions and greater energy efficiency. Green buildings have especially appealed to companies with sustainability initiatives due to the widespread adoption of environmental, social and governance principles.  

The construction sector is not well-renowned for having pro-environment fundamentals. Studies suggest the industry is liable for 25% of worldwide logging activities while emitting 39% of global carbon dioxide, 49% of sulfur dioxide, and 25% of nitrous oxide. It is also responsible for extracting 40% of the world’s raw materials.

Transitioning to green products and practices, reducing waste, and increasing operational efficiency can dramatically diminish buildings’ adverse environmental impacts. According to the International Finance Corporation (IFC), energy-saving construction and design could reduce emissions levels by 12.8% by 2035 from 2022 levels. Existing construction practices illustrate a 13% increase in emissions without mitigation efforts.

Green building frameworks have paved the way for more climate-resilient clean energy structures worldwide. However, sourcing and incorporating sustainable materials into building projects remains challenging. Fortunately, Declare labels can help streamline this process. 

What Are Declare Labels? 

The International Living Future Institute (ILFI) developed Declare labels to deliver a transparent database of product sustainability. The labels follow Living Building Challenge’s (LBC) requirements, indicating what the item is made of, its carbon footprint, and how harmful it is to the environment and people. 

Many compare Declare labels to food nutrition labels, as each breaks down the most critical product information and ingredients, helping construction stakeholders and consumers make informed buying decisions. Declare labels allow the green building sector to achieve the highest sustainability standard and construct safer, energy-efficient structures. Products with Declare labeling comply with the LBC Red List – chemical compounds deemed most hazardous to human health and the environment. Manufacturers must disclose all ingredients and residuals at or over 100 parts per million – or 0.01% – in each product.

How Do You Read Declare Labels?

Declare labels aim for straightforward clarification and accessibility to building products’ composition. Some of the labels’ core components include:

• Product identifier: States what the product is and its model, if applicable;
• Declaration status: Identifies the product as LBC Red List Free, LBC Red List Approved or Declared;
• Ingredients: Lists all the ingredients used to manufacture the product;
• Red List chemicals: Discloses any substances from the Red List;
• Additional details: Details end-of-life options for the product, life expectancy and certifications it’s received.

The key difference between the LBC Red List Free and Approved statuses is whether the item is entirely free of the ILFI’s chemicals or contains trace amounts. The LBC Red List Free declaration is also a product’s highest attainable status.

Construction professionals should familiarize themselves with the Red List to identify the most concerning compounds. They can then use the Declare labels to compare products and weigh the environmental and health impacts before use. 

Benefits of Declare Labels 

Declare labels eliminate the guesswork in sourcing quality green materials for sustainable building projects. This offers several advantages to construction stakeholders and the average consumer pioneering eco-friendly infrastructure and design.

1. Better Product Decision-Making

Using the product information on Declare labels results in healthier and environmentally sound product choices. For example, a plumbing specialist may forgo using a pipe with potentially hazardous compounds, which could increase occupant exposure to poor air quality. 

Because manufacturers must meet stringent criteria to receive a Declare status, the labels also improve customer satisfaction and loyalty by cultivating trust in how products are made.

Declare labeling makes green product selection more efficient, as designers and contractors can verify sustainability and meet LEED certification standards. For example, builders might select Meganite’s silica-free countertops and sinks, which have obtained Declare labeling and various certifications for low emissions.

Kohler Co. – a global kitchen and bathroom plumbing manufacturer – also began applying GreenCircle Certified’s third-party declarations in 2020. GreenCircle Certified examined Kohler’s processes to ensure material health and compliance with Declare label standards, indicating whether any chemicals matched those on the Red List. 

2. Efficient Building Performance

Declare labeling’s transparency ensures excellent building performance by specifying sources of indoor pollutants, boosting awareness of potential allergens, and maintaining maximum indoor air quality. They also indicate a product’s carbon footprint to encourage material use with reduced embodied energy. 

Integrating vegetation and recycled materials on green roofs saves 12.5% of energy daily during summer. Meanwhile, light-emitting diode bulbs use 90% less power than incandescents, lowering the amount of heat expelled. Contractors, architects, and designers can use Declare labels for these products to ensure optimal efficiency. 

3. Public Health Risk Mitigation

Because Declare labels point to potential hazards within a product, they can prevent public health risks associated with the materials.

For instance, formaldehyde – a known carcinogen – is widely used in pressed wood products, while phthalates make polyvinyl chloride (PVC) more pliable and durable. PVC products are among the most common materials found in construction. Likewise, perfluorinated compounds – including perfluorooctanoic acid or PFOAs – do not break down and have a four-year half-life in the human body. Animal studies show these forever chemicals cause pancreatic, liver, mammary, and testicular tumors in rats.

4. Greater Sustainability

Promoting less harmful material use in building and design reduces pollution and resource consumption. The Declare labels emphasize end-of-life information, encouraging a more circular economy. Likewise, the labels facilitate a transition toward low-carbon materials, enabling fewer building greenhouse gasses. 

More on the topic: 5 Ways the Construction Industry Is Getting Greener

Challenges and Criticisms

Overall, the adoption of Declare labels is relatively aligned with resistance to green buildings. Studies show they have 31% higher design expenses, 11% longer completion timelines, and 6.5% higher construction costs than standard structures. Green upgrades can also be more difficult and costly to insure, especially since repairing or replacing damaged property with eco-friendly materials is more pricey.

The criteria for achieving LEED building status are also complex. As such, only 4.08% of new construction in the US is considered green.

Although Declare labels can help contractors, designers, and consumers make better product choices to ensure building sustainability, there might be misunderstandings about the information presented. The labels are highly detailed and may be challenging for everyone to comprehend. Likewise, there must be a way for people to verify the accuracy and authenticity of the information presented on them. 

Addressing the challenges requires implementing new policies and incentives for adoption. Tax credits and manufacturer rebates should be offered for product purchases with Declare labels while industry stakeholders promote their value and use. Additionally, educational resources and training will help manufacturers, construction specialists, and consumers better understand the labeling process. 

Building Transparency 

The future of green building demands widespread adoption of Declare labels. Their benefits for the construction sector and society are too crucial to overlook. Transparency and a deeper understanding of eco-friendly materials and design are critical as the industry continues to shift toward sustainability.

Featured image: Danist Soh/ Unsplash.

The post Declare Labels: Unpacking the Sustainability of Construction Materials  appeared first on Earth.Org.

Climate change is no longer a distant threat – it is a reality that farmers around the world are grappling with daily. Rising temperatures, erratic weather patterns, increased pest and disease pressure and shifting precipitation patterns have made agriculture more challenging than ever. Farmers are demonstrating remarkable resilience and adaptability in the face of the uncertainty brought about by climate change. 

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1. Diversification of Crops and Livestock

Diversification is one of the most effective strategies farmers use to adapt to climate change. Farmers can spread the risk associated with changing weather patterns by planting various crops and raising different types of livestock. Diversification provides a buffer against crop failures, helps maintain soil health and prevents the spreading of diseases and pests. Farmers are experimenting with new crop varieties better suited to changing conditions and exploring niche markets for specialty crops and livestock breeds.

2. Precision Agriculture and Technology

Technological advancements have played a crucial role in helping farmers adapt to climate change. Precision agriculture techniques, like GPS-guided tractors and drones, optimise farmer’s use of resources like water and fertilisers. With data-driven insights from weather forecasts and soil analysis, farmers can make informed decisions about when to plant, irrigate and harvest, reducing waste and increasing efficiency. 

3. Sustainable Farming Practices

Sustainability has become a central focus for many farmers. Implementing practices like conservation tillage, crop rotation and cover cropping helps sequester carbon, improve soil health and reduce water usage. Additionally, sustainable farming practices contribute to biodiversity conservation, which is vital for maintaining ecosystem resilience in the face of climate change. 

You might also like: How Climate Smart Agriculture Can Help Us Tackle Global Food Insecurity

4. Water Management and Irrigation Efficiency

As water resources become scarcer and more unpredictable, farmers are adopting innovative irrigation techniques to make the most of available water. Drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting and soil moisture sensors are just a few examples of technologies that help farmers manage water resources more efficiently. Water recycling and storage systems also enable farmers to store excess water during wet periods for use during dry spells.

5. Maximising Existing Agricultural Land

With a growing global population and increasing pressure on land resources, finding ways to enhance productivity on current farmland is vital. Farmers already use approximately 50% of vegetative land for agriculture, so there is little room for expansion and they need to get the most out of the land. 

Many farmers are adopting high-yield crop varieties and implementing crop rotation and intercropping techniques. Farmers can achieve higher yields by optimising land use and reducing the need for deforestation or land expansion. This approach helps them meet the rising food demand and conserves natural ecosystems. 

6. Climate-Resilient Crop Varieties

Crop breeding programmes are developing climate-resilient varieties that can withstand extreme temperatures, droughts and other climate-related stresses. These new varieties ensure better yields and reduce the need for pesticides and synthetic fertilisers. Farmers are adopting these resilient crops at increasing rates to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

More on the topic: Bioengineering Climate-Resilient Crops to Safeguard Global Food Security

7. Knowledge Sharing and Adaptation Networks

Farmers are not facing climate change in isolation. Many join local and global networks to share knowledge, experiences and best practices for adapting to changing conditions. These networks help farmers learn from each other and gain access to valuable resources, including climate information, financial support and technical expertise. 

8. Weather Forecasting and Early Warning Signs

Access to accurate weather forecasting is critical to help farmers make timely decisions. The unpredictability of climate change has led to an increased demand for localised and reliable weather information. Many farmers now rely on weather apps and services offering real-time data and long-term forecasts tailored to their specific locations. Additionally, early warning systems for extreme weather events, like hurricanes and floods, have become invaluable tools for risk mitigation.

9. Resilient Infrastructure and Farm Design

Building resilient infrastructure is another game-changing strategy. Farmers are constructing climate-resilient buildings, storage facilities and irrigation systems to withstand extreme weather events. Farm design is evolving to incorporate natural features like wetlands and windbreaks to protect against erosion and create microclimates that foster healthy crops and livestock. 

10. Education and Training

Continuous learning and training are essential for staying ahead of climate change. Many agricultural universities and organisations offer workshops and courses on climate-smart agriculture, helping farmers stay up-to-date with the latest practices and technologies. This knowledge exchange promotes innovation and empowers farmers to make informed decisions.

11. Government Policies and Support

Government policies play a significant role in helping farmers make adaptations for climate change. Many countries are implementing policies and incentives to encourage sustainable farming practices, provide financial support during extreme weather events and promote research and development of climate-resilient crops. Farmers are actively engaging with policymakers to ensure they address their concerns and needs in climate-related legislation. 

For example, the US has various programmes and initiatives to support farmers. These include the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) programmes, which promote sustainable farming practices, and crop insurance programs to help farmers recover from weather-related losses. Additionally, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides grants and technical assistance for research on climate-resilient crop varieties and practices. 

You might also like: The Future of Farming: Can We Feed the World Without Destroying It?

Adapting to a Changing Environment

The unpredictability of climate change presents significant challenges to farmers worldwide, but they are responding with innovation and adaptability. Through strategies and practices like diversification and technological advancements, farmers are beginning to thrive amidst the challenges of climate change. Their ability to adapt and innovate is crucial for their own livelihoods and for ensuring food security. 

As the effects of climate change continue to unfold, the agricultural community’s ability to adapt will be instrumental in securing a sustainable future for us all. 

This article was originally published on October 26, 2023

The post 11 Ways Farmers Are Adapting to the Unpredictability of Climate Change appeared first on Earth.Org.

Sustainable efforts continue to expand, changing one industry after another. The recent rise in green retirement options has urged seniors to rethink ecological living for various reasons, including more affordable home maintenance, better overall well-being, and protecting the planet. Learn more about this growing green lifestyle trend, its features, and how you can benefit from it.

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Green initiatives began as a flicker several years ago, sweeping through industries from construction to finance and now senior living. About 30,600 assisted living communities throughout the US provide almost 1.2 million licensed beds. If these numbers all go green, it will carry a wave of massive positive change for the environment and help curb the worsening climate problem.

Sustainable Retirement

Like in other sectors, sustainability is fueled by the optimistic benefits encompassing all health aspects. Facilities providing senior care pursue ecological lifestyles in the following ways.

• Renewable energy

Many communities are shifting from fossil fuels to solar panels to power their units. It is cleaner and lowers residents’ monthly electric bills.

• Building architecture

They are opting for environmentally friendly and recyclable building materials, such as wood, brick and glass coverings. These boost insulation throughout all seasons, with walls retaining heat in winter and keeping indoors cooler during summer.

• Rainwater harvesting system

Having passive and active resource caching systems allows residents to collect and use water in many ways, such as flushing toilets, irrigating plants, bathing and washing laundry.

• Low-flow water fixtures

Over 45% of water use in an average American household happens in the bathroom. Many communities are revamping their plumbing design to slow water pressure in the toilet, shower, and kitchen faucets. It minimizes waste that converts into savings.

• Leadership in energy and environmental design (LEED) certification

LEED is a globally recognized rating system granted by the Green Building Certification Institute. Many senior living companies pursue this as proof of sustainability and to attract ecologically conscious residents.

What Attracts Seniors to Pursue Sustainable Retirement Options?

Many older adults move because of rising home maintenance. Annual upkeep can cost anywhere between 1-4% of the total cost of your residence, meaning you will spend about $20,000 each year to maintain a $500,000 home. To reduce those expenses, check for these aspects.

• Renewable electricity

The community can power their units using clean energy sources. It is self-sufficient to promote efficiency, leveraging solar panels, LED lighting and smart thermostats to reduce environmental impact. These options lessen seniors’ monthly bills.

• Accessible transportation

The facility should support ecological transportation options, such as having bike-friendly infrastructure to encourage residents to participate, providing access to electric vehicle charging stations and shuttle services to public transportation to lower reliance on private cars.

• Gardening

Many curve into the route of food independence by creating their own gardens to taper off emissions, provide a refuge for local species and have access to chemical-free produce. Gardening is a meaningful hobby many seniors share, and being near green spaces benefits mental, social, and emotional well-being. The joy of planting and harvesting their own organic produce can give residents a sense of purpose.

• Quality indoor air

They use renewable and recyclable materials – such as cork, stone and wood – during construction to dial down the environmental impact and simultaneously promote healthier indoor air for residents.

What Are Other Benefits of Moving Into a Green Community?

A green senior living facility has several advantages for the residents, the business and the environment.

• Reduced carbon footprint

Home energy use contributes to 20% of greenhouse gas emissions in the US. Wealthier people have 25% higher footprints than those with lower incomes because of larger space. Efficient design and practices in green retirement facilities can keep individual carbon footprints to a minimum.

• Access to green spaces at any time

A sustainable community gives seniors access to wider green spaces that affect their health positively. One study found older adults who participated in a 24-session therapeutic gardening program maintained healthy sleep patterns and mental health, including reduced anxiety and improved brain function. Their mean happiness score also increased. The more available nature is to you, the better it is for your well-being.

• Strong sense of community

Loneliness is a prevalent problem among seniors who live independently. By moving to a retirement community, they can make friends who foster shared values around sustainability. They get more social opportunities and avoid loneliness more easily.

What Are Top Sustainable Communities in the US to Retire to?

Leading a sustainable lifestyle can be challenging initially, but things get better after a while. Here are three examples of thriving eco-conscious communities that incorporate sustainability in their way of living.

• Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage

This community in Missouri started in 1997 with six members who left California to search for a new home where they could pursue ecological living. The community has since grown, with more than 40 members dedicated to creating a place that prioritizes the environment. They grow most of their food, and each house follows sustainability guidelines in building materials, techniques and design.

• Sawyer Hill EcoVillage

This ecovillage is located in Massachusetts and uses the best sustainability practices in housing development. Homes meet the LEED standards, while the clustered units allow residents to leave more than 75% of their 65-acre compound for open space. The community maintains organic gardens, uses neighborhood lighting systems, and has shared facilities like a dining hall and play area for kids.

• EcoVillage at Ithaca

This hamlet in upstate New York is one of the pioneers in the country’s green community. It is set on 175 acres of land, with over 90% of the space preserved for farming, recreational trails and wildlife habitats. The two onsite farms provide fresh vegetables and fruits to 1,500 people in the Ithaca area. It currently has 100 homes clustered within a 10-acre zone.

How Can You Support Sustainability in Your Community?

Seniors who are not ready to downsize and relocate to a green community can gradually adopt sustainability practices to lower their carbon footprint. Here are strategies to try.

• Participate in community gardening

Check if your church, nonprofit organization, or neighborhood association has a shared garden close to home and ask how to become a member. Tending a garden is a great opportunity to stay active and social instead of being cooped up and living sedentary. Get to know other members of the community and build friendships.

• Advocate for renewable energy adoption

Advocating for clean energy is challenging if you know little about it, so start by learning everything. Pioneering the adoption by installing solar or switching to LEDs gives you more convincing power to entice others in your neighborhood to do the same.

• Engage in local sustainability groups and initiatives

Sustainability projects are widespread, so get involved in a program in your local area. Check if there are recycling, tree-planting, composting, or community-supported agriculture programs, and volunteer to be part of them.

• Eat locally

Support local merchants and pick eateries that source their products from nearby farmers and suppliers.

Sustainable Retirement Options Promote Health

A healthy environment translates to cleaner air, water and more nutritious food. Moving to a sustainable community to retire empowers seniors to be part of the climate solution. By changing one or more aspects of their lifestyle, whether choosing restaurants using local produce or downsizing and relocating to a smaller home, they can become role models for green movements. Consider eco-friendly factors during your retirement.

Featured image: joyce huis/Unsplash

You might also like: 4 Steps to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

The post The Rise of Sustainable Retirement Living Options in the US appeared first on Earth.Org.

Climate change has prompted plenty of people to ask themselves what they can do to slow down this rapidly deteriorating crisis. Until not long ago, there were very few answers. Thankfully, as society grows and technology expands, more and more innovative and efficient energy solutions are developed. In this article, we explore how the construction industry can benefit from some of these solutions.

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Residential and commercial construction projects use energy every day. In 2021, the industry was responsible for 37% of all process-related carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.

Builders have a big responsibility in adopting and implementing more sustainable building options. However, it is also essential to conjure up demand. And if consumers start seeking more sustainable energy solutions from companies, they will directly contribute to boosting their development.

Best Energy Solutions for Construction

Some energy solutions have already been deployed, while others are still in the works. It’s best to be aware of both and to seek what’s available for your future construction endeavors.

1. Integrative Design

The primary energy solution most builders utilize is turning to renewable sources. Solar, wind, and other types of clean energy are sustainable alternatives that can lessen dependence on conventional resources. However, there is also the matter of embodied energy, which accounts for all the resources used to produce a material or product.

The concept of integrative design is a good energy solution that focuses on utilizing available tools more efficiently. This technique applies to other sectors like transport, but construction can also take note of this. 

For instance, having a proper pipe layout and installation in a home is a better alternative to using a different duct system. Pipes are smaller in diameter than other tube options, so they are more efficient in transferring hot or cold air through the building. Doing this can save an estimated 97% of pumping energy and can contribute to conserve a staggering one-fifth of global electricity. 
Another example is concrete. Heating and cooling cement requires plenty of energy and water. The traditional method of mixing one ton of cement can produce one ton of carbon dioxide. It is possible to avoid this by opting for other structures like permanent wood foundations.

2. Prefabricated Materials

Prefabricated materials are a good energy solution already available on the market. It allows reusing construction materials that would otherwise go to the landfill. It also eliminates going overboard with your resources since everything is already precalculated. 

The construction process for prefabricated buildings like manufactured homes goes by quickly. Creating prefabricated structures generates 15.38% less waste than other construction forms. It is certainly a worthy option for walls, roofing, or even a whole building. 

Prefabricated buildings can also work in tandem with other forms of renewable energy, for example by integrating biomass energy through organic materials like wood pellets and agricultural remnants. Doing so can further lower the carbon footprint of the construction process.

In the US, manufactured housing has reached almost every state. Texas leads with 556,611 units, while North Carolina records 318,752. The growing demand for prefabricated buildings is mostly attributed to increased house prices and mortgage rates.

3. Dynamic Gas Blending

Dynamic gas blending is an engine design that helps builders run machinery on a combination of diesel and natural gas. This technology enables you to get the best of both fuels while minimizing emissions as much as possible. 

Plus, the engine operates like a pure diesel engine, so there’s not much of a learning curve in implementation. However, the main appeal of adopting dynamic gas blending is the ability to use other fuel sources.

For example, flare gas only produces 1% of manufactured carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions worldwide. Flaring or letting it break can do more harm than good, so it is best to adopt dynamic gas blending into construction processes. Utilizing it for your operation and combining it with another gas can lessen the overall environmental impact.

4. Solar Fuel Production

Solar energy is at the top of the list for renewable energy. Solar thermal technology is a popular approach, and it’s also used as an alternative to electricity in many homes and businesses. While many are shifting to solar energy use, it’s natural to start wondering what is next: solar fuel production. 

Solar fuel production is the process of harnessing sunlight energy and converting it into liquid fuels with water and carbon dioxide. The solar energy hitting the Earth’s surface in an hour can support global energy consumption for a whole year, so this method can lessen reliance on diesel and other harmful gases. 

While the concept is still being refined, solar fuel production’s impact on the construction and manufacturing sector seems promising. Many contractors use kerosene to power up construction equipment. It can also provide heating and lighting on work sites. 

While kerosene is quite valuable, it comes from petroleum and produces emissions. Solar fuel can serve as a green replacement for that. It can also substitute hydrocarbons like methane and ethanol. Finding and employing these renewable alternatives is key to minimizing reliance on fossil fuels in the long run.

Ideally, solar fuel can be a jumping point for even more efficient energy storage systems. The Department of Energy says the ability to store the fuels for months or longer and transport them anywhere in the world makes the resource valuable.

5. Green Hydrogen Systems

Green hydrogen utilizes electrolysis, which breaks down water particles to extract hydrogen energy. The output is similar to gray hydrogen, though the latter uses fossil fuels to break down particles, resulting in 830 million metric tons of emissions annually. 

Green hydrogen is a renewable resource produced without pollution. Australia is seeking to become a leading exporter in Asia due to its climate and strong capabilities to generate this type of energy, with its government investing A$525 million (US$347 million) to develop eight hydrogen hubs across the country.

On an industrial level, electric vehicle production and mining are set to utilize green hydrogen systems. Hyundai has pledged to manufacture 500,000 hydrogen vehicles with fuel cell technology by 2030. Essentially, cars will run on compressed clean hydrogen tanks rather than just operating on electricity.

You might also like: All You Need to Know About Green Hydrogen

6. Airborne Wind Energy

Wind turbines are the most common way to harness this energy source, but they can be challenging to use in areas lacking space. This dilemma sparks the innovation of an airborne wind energy system, power generation that’s done suspended in the air.

Most airborne wind power devices fly in a crosswind or transverse direction. Their design allows them to navigate altitudes of 200 meters (656 feet) and above. Some variations, like aerofoil kites, can stay connected to a stationary turbine, supplying it with the collected energy. Airborne wind energy systems can also generate power on board an aircraft.

According to the DOE, this system can harvest as much energy as ground-based turbines. However, they highlight that the technology still needs further development. University of Delaware Center for Research in Wind (CReW) director Cristina Archer says that while this type of energy will not replace conventional wind turbines, it can help with smaller operations, like powering remote islands.

7. Geothermal Heat Pump

Another form of renewable energy that can be helpful with the building process is integrating a geothermal heat pump. Space heating accounted for 42% of energy consumption in the residential sector, with most households dependent on natural gas.

Geothermal energy is a renewable heating source that combats that dependency. The area below the earth offers a great heat source, and households can utilize it to change the temperatures of their homes.

Utilizing geothermal heat pumps is recommended for new buildings, but they can be retroactively added to existing structures to maximize heating efficiency. According to DOE, this can decarbonize heating and cooling and avoid 24,500 grid transmission line miles by 2050.

Participate in the Change

The variety of available energy solutions means society is actively seeking sustainability. Join the cause by looking into different methods and staying updated on these projects. It is possible to make a difference, one shift at a time.

Featured image: Steele Rutherford/Unsplash

The post 7 Innovative Energy Solutions That Are Changing the Way We Build appeared first on Earth.Org.