The idea of using living materials for a roof is not a new one. Applying it to modern buildings, however, is relatively new. How is the ancient art of a living roof compatible with modern building methods? And why would anyone choose a living roof for his or her home?
The Living Roof - What Is It?
A living roof, also known as a green roof, can be constructed on an existing roof or incorporated into a new structure. It can be used on commercial or private buildings. A corrugated, aluminum sheet is placed on the roof, followed by a waterproof membrane. Some builders will then apply a sheet of foam and another waterproof membrane. Drains are incorporated into the design.
Over all of the weatherproofing layers, about 4 inches of soil is placed and various greenery is planted. Many green roof builders like to focus on native plants for their rooftop "garden."
So what are the main advantages and disadvantages of having a living roof? Read on to find out.
Advantages of a Living Roof
1. Less Reflective Heat - The sunlight and heat that are reflected off of urban buildings' roofs can greatly increase the temperature within a city. Green roofs eliminate the reflective factor, absorbing and utilizing the sun's light.
2. Insulation - Earth is a good insulator, and having four or more inches of it on your roof will keep your building cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
3. Protection - The soil and plants on a living roof protect the roof structure beneath from the elements, thus preventing the wear and tear (and the subsequent leaks) that can result from exposure to the weather.
4. Wildlife - Green roofs provide wildlife habitat, especially if native species are planted. Particularly in urban areas, living roofs can act as an oasis to wildlife.
5. Clean air - Plants clean the air, soaking up carbon dioxide and emitting oxygen. The air around your structure will be cleaner as a result, and the more living roofs that are planted, the cleaner the air over a wider area.
6. Absorption of rainwater - This helps control storm run-off, which can cause problems when it is excessive. It can also be a
7. Source of pollution.
Disadvantages of a Living Roof
1. Initial expense - Living roofs can be expensive to construct. Some of the cost can be offset, though, in the savings on heating and cooling, or if you grow your own food on the living roof.
2. Maintenance - Like a garden, a living roof will need some maintenance. It might need watering during a dry spell, or fertilizer may be necessary. Choosing native plant species will reduce the amount of maintenance.
3. Weight - Soil is heavy, and some roof structures cannot support it.
Living roofs are beautiful, green structures that combine the necessities of building with the beauty of a garden.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Household Toxins and Autism
The rise in autism cases has many people concerned, especially as a definite cause for the disorder is elusive. The Centers for Disease Control reports that 1 in 150 children (more boys than girls) born today will develop autism. The rise in autism since the early 1990s is epidemic in proportion, but thankfully, there are some insights as to what triggers this disorder. Toxins in general are implicated in autism, and now environmental factors are coming under scrutiny. Specifically, household items such as cleaners are potential culprits.
In the Womb
A recent study analyzed the blood and urine of nine women across several states who were in their second trimesters of pregnancy. The study revealed 13 toxins present in the systems of these women, including Bisphenol A (BPA), perfluorinated compounds, mercury, and phthalates. What are these toxins, and where are they found?
1. BPAs are used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastic and food can lining. It acts as an artificial form of estrogen in the body, and its potential to adversely affect fetal development is documented. BPAs wreak hormonal havoc in adults' bodies as well, decreasing the production of sperm in males and causing changes in behavior.
2. Perfluorinated compounds are used to make non-stick cookware and stain-resistant products, such as you might have had sprayed on your furniture or carpet. Perfluorinated compounds are a potential carcinogen in people and cause tumors in laboratory animals. It is not too much of a stretch to consider that these compounds could affect brain development.
3. Mercury is known to affect brain development and to harm cognitive function. Every woman in the above study had mercury in her blood. Household items that contain mercury include household batteries, fluorescent lights, thermometers, paint residues, and thermostats.
4. Phthalates are implicated in reproductive problems and asthma, and interestingly, asthma and autism often occur together. Pthalates are fragrance carriers and are used in shampoos, cosmetics, and other beauty products.
Of course, exposure to these common toxins does not cease after birth. The poisoning may begin then, but it continues as the baby grows up in a household where such items are common.
Other Toxins
1. Pet shampoos have been found to be used twice as often in families with autistic children. Pet shampoos contain organophosphates or pyrethroids.
2. Antibacterial soaps contain ingredients that may affect the human immune system, and autoimmune disorders are associated with autism (the immune system turns inward and attacks the body, causing inflammation and other symptoms).
3. Pesticides have known neurological effects and are found on everything from produce to lawns.
4. Household cleaners emit vapors that are known to be toxic, to the point that some doctors warn their pregnant patients not to use them to clean the house during pregnancy. These cleaners - festooned with "Keep Out of the Reach of Children" warnings - contain carcinogens, neurotoxins, and endocrine disrupters (which means they can affect human hormones).
5. Perhaps if we began to take those warnings seriously and kept such products completely out of our homes, we could lower our children's risk for developing autism.
In the Womb
A recent study analyzed the blood and urine of nine women across several states who were in their second trimesters of pregnancy. The study revealed 13 toxins present in the systems of these women, including Bisphenol A (BPA), perfluorinated compounds, mercury, and phthalates. What are these toxins, and where are they found?
1. BPAs are used in the manufacture of polycarbonate plastic and food can lining. It acts as an artificial form of estrogen in the body, and its potential to adversely affect fetal development is documented. BPAs wreak hormonal havoc in adults' bodies as well, decreasing the production of sperm in males and causing changes in behavior.
2. Perfluorinated compounds are used to make non-stick cookware and stain-resistant products, such as you might have had sprayed on your furniture or carpet. Perfluorinated compounds are a potential carcinogen in people and cause tumors in laboratory animals. It is not too much of a stretch to consider that these compounds could affect brain development.
3. Mercury is known to affect brain development and to harm cognitive function. Every woman in the above study had mercury in her blood. Household items that contain mercury include household batteries, fluorescent lights, thermometers, paint residues, and thermostats.
4. Phthalates are implicated in reproductive problems and asthma, and interestingly, asthma and autism often occur together. Pthalates are fragrance carriers and are used in shampoos, cosmetics, and other beauty products.
Of course, exposure to these common toxins does not cease after birth. The poisoning may begin then, but it continues as the baby grows up in a household where such items are common.
Other Toxins
1. Pet shampoos have been found to be used twice as often in families with autistic children. Pet shampoos contain organophosphates or pyrethroids.
2. Antibacterial soaps contain ingredients that may affect the human immune system, and autoimmune disorders are associated with autism (the immune system turns inward and attacks the body, causing inflammation and other symptoms).
3. Pesticides have known neurological effects and are found on everything from produce to lawns.
4. Household cleaners emit vapors that are known to be toxic, to the point that some doctors warn their pregnant patients not to use them to clean the house during pregnancy. These cleaners - festooned with "Keep Out of the Reach of Children" warnings - contain carcinogens, neurotoxins, and endocrine disrupters (which means they can affect human hormones).
5. Perhaps if we began to take those warnings seriously and kept such products completely out of our homes, we could lower our children's risk for developing autism.
Green Redecorating On a Budget
You may think that keeping your redecorating efforts eco-friendly will break your budget. While it's true that some green items can cost more, there are ways to engage in environmentally-friendly redecorating and still stay within a budget. Here are some ideas,
1. Paint
Do you get headaches or respiratory irritation when painting a room? That is probably due to the toxic substances in the paint, particularly volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Look for paint that is VOC-free - many major paint manufacturers have VOC-free versions of their paints. While it does cost a bit more, it is high-quality paint that tends to cover better, so you will likely only need one coat. That can actually end up being cheaper than getting many gallons of conventional paint.
Painting a room can mean a lot of disposable accoutrements such as plastic drop cloths and paint trays. Consider biodegradable drop cloths, which are comparable to plastic and sell for under $ 4. An even cheaper option is to use an old sheet you already have. It can be washed and re-used for your next painting project.
If you use disposable paint trays and rollers, look for those that are biodegradable or made from recycled materials.
2. Flooring
If you have synthetic wall-to-wall carpet, rip it up and expose the flooring beneath. If it's hardwood, it can be restored with minimal effort. If it is not hardwood, or if you just want to put down more carpet, consider modular carpet tiles. These are inexpensive and can be laid down by the homeowner without the use of toxic adhesives or chemicals. They are also manufactured with non-toxic dyes and recycled materials. When they are worn out or you just want a change, they can be returned to the manufacturer for recycling.
3. Appliances
Perhaps you are wanting to redecorate your kitchen and you are considering buying new appliances. If they are still in good working order, you can actually get appliance paints to give them a fresh, new look. (The same is true for bathroom tiles.) If you do purchase new appliances, look for those with the energy-star for optimum efficiency.
4. Furniture and Accessories
Here is where you can really save money and be environmentally friendly. Shop at antique and second-hand stores and purchase inexpensive furniture and accessories such as lamps, vases, etc. Some of these items need to be restored, or can be given a new look by simply spraying them with white spray paint.
Don't forget your own attic, garage, closet, etc. for these items. Perhaps you have an old end table that you could re-paint, or a basket hidden away that could be used to hold magazines. Re-use bottles and jars as candle holders and flower vases.
Redecorating probably means that you are throwing out some things - old carpet, appliances, etc. Rather than hauling these to the landfill, find out if they can be donated to charitable organizations for refurbishing. Remember to report any eco-friendly changes you make to your home on your income tax return.
1. Paint
Do you get headaches or respiratory irritation when painting a room? That is probably due to the toxic substances in the paint, particularly volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Look for paint that is VOC-free - many major paint manufacturers have VOC-free versions of their paints. While it does cost a bit more, it is high-quality paint that tends to cover better, so you will likely only need one coat. That can actually end up being cheaper than getting many gallons of conventional paint.
Painting a room can mean a lot of disposable accoutrements such as plastic drop cloths and paint trays. Consider biodegradable drop cloths, which are comparable to plastic and sell for under $ 4. An even cheaper option is to use an old sheet you already have. It can be washed and re-used for your next painting project.
If you use disposable paint trays and rollers, look for those that are biodegradable or made from recycled materials.
2. Flooring
If you have synthetic wall-to-wall carpet, rip it up and expose the flooring beneath. If it's hardwood, it can be restored with minimal effort. If it is not hardwood, or if you just want to put down more carpet, consider modular carpet tiles. These are inexpensive and can be laid down by the homeowner without the use of toxic adhesives or chemicals. They are also manufactured with non-toxic dyes and recycled materials. When they are worn out or you just want a change, they can be returned to the manufacturer for recycling.
3. Appliances
Perhaps you are wanting to redecorate your kitchen and you are considering buying new appliances. If they are still in good working order, you can actually get appliance paints to give them a fresh, new look. (The same is true for bathroom tiles.) If you do purchase new appliances, look for those with the energy-star for optimum efficiency.
4. Furniture and Accessories
Here is where you can really save money and be environmentally friendly. Shop at antique and second-hand stores and purchase inexpensive furniture and accessories such as lamps, vases, etc. Some of these items need to be restored, or can be given a new look by simply spraying them with white spray paint.
Don't forget your own attic, garage, closet, etc. for these items. Perhaps you have an old end table that you could re-paint, or a basket hidden away that could be used to hold magazines. Re-use bottles and jars as candle holders and flower vases.
Redecorating probably means that you are throwing out some things - old carpet, appliances, etc. Rather than hauling these to the landfill, find out if they can be donated to charitable organizations for refurbishing. Remember to report any eco-friendly changes you make to your home on your income tax return.
Nettle Tea – A Health Tonic
Nettles, specifically stinging nettles (Urtica dioica), have all kinds of health benefits. Here are some healthful properties of nettles, and a recipe for making your own nettle tea.
Nutritional Profile of Nettle Tea
First of all, nettles are high in vitamins and minerals, including iron, chlorophyll, calcium, magnesium, silicon, zinc, potassium and phosphorus. They contain significant amounts of vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, as well as riboflavin (B2) and thiamine (B1). Nettles also have folic acid and amino acids.
Here are some benefit of Nettle tea,
1. Body Cleanser
Nettle tea stimulates the elimination of wastes from the body, making it a good choice for detoxification. It seems to have expelling action in various body systems, including the digestive and urinary systems. It has been used as a treatment for kidney stones and intestinal worms. Nettle tea acts to expel mucus from the lungs and nasal passages, making it a good choice for allergies and sinus congestion.
2. Anti-bacterial and Anti-viral
Nettle has been used to eliminate bacterial and viral infections from the body, and is ideal for respiratory infection accompanied by congestion.
3. Allergies
Nettles are often the treatment of choice among herbalists for clients who suffer from allergies. The vitamin C and zinc content in nettles may account for their ability to soothe allergy symptoms, as well as their anti-inflammatory, antihistamine, and expectorant properties.
4. Diabetes
Nettle has been shown to decrease blood sugar and glycemic levels, and can be of great help to those who suffer from this chronic disease.
5. Women's Health
Nettle tea is traditionally used to stop post-partum bleeding, and any internal bleeding. It is also said to promote milk production after childbirth.
6. Bones
There have been personal testimonies of people whose arthritis, rheumatism, and osteoperosis were reversed or eliminated by consuming nettle tea.
Preparation of Nettle Tea
If you are harvesting nettles from the wild (and it is a common "weed"), wear gloves because of the sting. The tiny stinging hairs, though, will disappear when the leaves are dried or cooked. Choose young shoots whenever possible. You can also purchase dried nettle from your local health food store or online.
You can use a combination of dried root or aerial parts (stems and leaves) in your tea, but if you are harvesting nettle from the wild, cut it rather than pulling it up by the roots to preserve the plant. That way, you can harvest it several times a season, year after year. If you are using fresh nettle in your tea, wear gloves to chop it.
Simply pour 1 cup of boiling water over 4-5 teaspoons of dried (or 2-3 tablespoons of fresh) nettle. Steep it for 5-8 minutes. It is not the tastiest tea in the world, so you may want to add some lemon juice (it will turn the tea a pinkish color) and sweeten it with raw honey or stevia. You can also blend it with more palatable herbs, such as peppermint, lemon balm, or stevia leaves.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
“Green” Leather Shoes – An Explanation
Leather may be a natural material for shoes, but that does not necessarily mean it is eco-friendly. Commercial leather tanning - the process by which perishable animal skins are converted into non-perishable leather - involves a complicated, 15-step chemical process resulting in large amounts of polluted water.
The tanning process often uses petroleum products, and leather tanning factories also make heavy use of diesel fuel to run their equipment. In addition, many large shoe corporations employ workers overseas in factories with bad working conditions.
Some of the chemicals used in leather tanning are sulfides, sulfates, chlorides, chromium, and other heavy metals. Workers exposed to these chemicals can develop health problems as a result. In countries where leather tanning is big business, the environmental impact is becoming serious.
Of course, synthetic leather and other artificial shoe materials are not necessarily eco-friendly, either. A balance can be found in "green" leather.
What Is "Green" Leather?
This is a kind of leather processed by eco-friendly methods. Interestingly, scientists have discovered a way that manufacturers can actually reverse the 15-step tanning process, thus reducing the use of chemicals and the amount of waste water. In fact, the reversed tanning process reduces the number of steps as well.
Other companies use eco-friendly tanning methods that make use of natural plant extracts - specifically, extracts from the Mimosa tree - in place of the toxic chemicals of conventional tanning. The Mimosa trees are farmed by sustainable methods, and the extraction process is also sustainable. To make the leather soft, these green companies use vegetable products and waxes.
The leather industry is beginning to move toward clean energy and sustainable tanning methods. Recently, a green leather manufacturing company opened in Vietnam. This factory will be using wind turbines, hot water heated by solar energy, and a hydraulic waste-water system to conserve water.
What to Look For When Shopping for Green Shoes
When you go shopping for green leather shoes, you may find some confusing terminology such as :
1. Vegan shoes are never made with leather or any animal product, so if the shoes you are considering are labeled "vegan," they are not actual leather.
2. Eco-friendly leather is leather that has been processed by sustainable, environmentally-friendly methods.
The key is to look for those shoes that claim to be both genuine leather (whole or in part) and eco-friendly. It is also a good idea to do your research and find the names of companies who engage in sustainable leather processing practices.
Nature – The Ultimate Playground for Kids
Every year parents spend hundreds if not, thousands of dollars on toys and activities for their kids. While many of things are great for keeping young minds and bodies active, many of them are unnecessary. Sure kids need structured play, but they also need “free” plan and this is easy to do when the world’s largest playground is right outside your back door. Why not let them play outside?
Every toy, book, and TV show that comes out has been designed and redesigned several times in order to make it educational and entertaining for children. The great thing about nature is that, while being entertaining and stimulating to the imagination, it’s also educational. Nature can teach children the basics of science, economics, and creativity.
It’s cheap. Depending on where you live, exploring nature is usually pretty inexpensive, if not free. It may mean going out in your backyard, local park, or perhaps going to the local nature center or state park (which usually have low cost fees or memberships). This way, you don’t have to pay for expensive toys, jungle gyms, or memberships to expensive entertainment centers, but you still get the benefit of stimulating and educational play.
It makes them think. Lately there’s been a trend in education towards inquiry based learning. Researchers have found that if students explore and experiment to figure out answers on their own, they’re going to learn better, and retain more information. It also helps them develop skills to be able to learn things on their own later. What better environment to learn things than out in nature. There are lessons for kids of all ages to discover about the world around them.
It may help the world. Everyone these days is trying to be more green and more environmentally conscious. What better way to help do your part than to get your children interested in their own planet than right now when they’re young and impressionable? What might be a fun time for them now, might be a future hobby, career, or world saving invention.
It’s fun. While it’s easy to forget, childhood isn’t just for learning about how to be an adult, it’s also about having fun. Nature gives kids a chance to use their imagination and be free to just be kids.
While unstructured play outside is great for kids, you can also find a lot of places offering structured classes and learning sessions for kids that focus on the natural world. Check your local park, zoo, or museum. There’s a good chance they have classes you can sign up for, and since many of these places are not for profit, they’re usually affordable as well as informative.
Across the world, there are millions of dollars being spent to help promote sending your kids outside to learn from nature. That’s because spending time in the outside world is so important for developing minds. It can also be a great escape for you as well.
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