Your Questions About Green Living

Donald asks…

What are some current major issues in NE Asia?

I have to do a paper in history, but I can’t think of anything. It can be anything from celebrities to environmental.
The areas of NE can be China, the Koreas, Thailand, Japan, and Mongolia.
Issues I can’t do:
The North Korean refugees
Global Warming

Thank you~

The Expert answers:

Gender imbalance in China
Gun homicide rates in Thailand
Young suicides in china
Infantilastion in Japan
Smoking in China

Maria asks…

need help summarizing….?

I was wondering if someone could help me summarize these paragraph’s, cause I don’t understand it.

Development of freedom

Whether in sub-Saharan, China or elsewhere, chronic poverty deprives numbers of people of the incentives and economic means to care for and nourish their natural environment. Yet being poor is only one element of people’s blighted relationship to the environment. According to economist and Nobel laureate Amarthya Sen, poverty needs to understood in broader terms than only the lack of monetary income. Sen argues that poverty should be characterized fundamentally in terms of the deprivation of basic freedoms, rather than merely low incomes. In his view, development not only has the economic dimension with which it is usually understood but, more important, requires the removal of the “unfreedoms” endured by most people in underdeveloped countries. Besides poverty, these unfreedoms include, deprivation of health care, lack of sanitation, exclusion from education (especially women), exclusion from market activities, and above all, tyrannical regimes associated with systematic deprivation of political liberty and basic civil rights.

Development, in Sen’s view, must included the freedom of democratic choices as well as the freedom of economic choices. Without such freedoms, people lack the opportunity for education, public debate, and discussion, which make possible rational choices about quality of life issues, including the environment, as well as rational choices about their families or their government. It follows that environmental improvement requires not only a measure of economic power for individuals but also the broader freedoms of individuals to set priorities for themselves, their families, and their society. Such freedoms also nourish the development of social values and environmental ethnics going beyond the bounds of government regulations and market rules. These values and ethnics are essentials for developing a healthy and sustainable environment.
I have argued above that countries and people in the earliest stage of development tend to have little interest in environmental issues as typically understood in the individual countries, such as rain or global warming. In the subsistence phase, sheer survival amidst historically hostile environments has usually been the main challenge of their lives. This is not to say that poor societies do not have respect for their own environment- Native American nations, for example, generally have a profoundly spiritual relationship with their natural environment (though it has often been abused by outside forces). I have also noted that countries and people in the second phase of development, such as China, are quite aware of the collateral environmental deterioration occurring along with their industrialization and modernization. Yet in countries such as China, not only is domestic investment capital scarce, but also social priorities, including environmental quality, are set mostly by government rather than popular choice. Investments aimed at cleaning the environment typically have not reached the top of the governments priority scale, because other social investments (eg. in energy production, housing, education, and industrial production for consumption and exports) have been seen as providing far greater benefits. As mentioned above, this situation is changing as China’s economy rapidly grows.

The Expert answers:

Paragraph 1:
For people in all the undeveloped countries , chronic poverty is not only understood as the deprivation of basic freedom. Rather, it includes the deprivation of Health care , lack of education , putting restrictions on political liberty and basic civil rights.

Paragraph 2:
Amarthya Sen, an economist and Nobel laureate says; without freedom , rational choices will take control over the country . No opportunities would be given to individuals to take the advantage to gain proper education, get a career , and get the best health care. And those are the basic values for a healthy and sustainable society .

Paragraph 3:
Sen’s arguments with the governments have ended up with two points; First, hostile environment and historical wars could have been placed number 1 priority for citizens that they had little interest on environmental issues. Second, governments have set several priorities rather than individual’s priorities such as education, domestic investments and social issues

Hope that helps

Lisa asks…

Need help summarizing….?

I was wondering if anyone could summarize these paragraphs for me. My english is a little rusty and I can’t seem to do it…. HELP!!

Development of freedom

Whether in sub-Saharan, China or elsewhere, chronic poverty deprives numbers of people of the incentives and economic means to care for and nourish their natural environment. Yet being poor is only one element of people’s blighted relationship to the environment. According to economist and Nobel laureate Amarthya Sen, poverty needs to understood in broader terms than only the lack of monetary income. Sen argues that poverty should be characterized fundamentally in terms of the deprivation of basic freedoms, rather than merely low incomes. In his view, development not only has the economic dimension with which it is usually understood but, more important, requires the removal of the “unfreedoms” endured by most people in underdeveloped countries. Besides poverty, these unfreedoms include, deprivation of health care, lack of sanitation, exclusion from education (especially women), exclusion from market activities, and above all, tyrannical regimes associated with systematic deprivation of political liberty and basic civil rights.

Development, in Sen’s view, must included the freedom of democratic choices as well as the freedom of economic choices. Without such freedoms, people lack the opportunity for education, public debate, and discussion, which make possible rational choices about quality of life issues, including the environment, as well as rational choices about their families or their government. It follows that environmental improvement requires not only a measure of economic power for individuals but also the broader freedoms of individuals to set priorities for themselves, their families, and their society. Such freedoms also nourish the development of social values and environmental ethnics going beyond the bounds of government regulations and market rules. These values and ethnics are essentials for developing a healthy and sustainable environment.
I have argued above that countries and people in the earliest stage of development tend to have little interest in environmental issues as typically understood in the individual countries, such as rain or global warming. In the subsistence phase, sheer survival amidst historically hostile environments has usually been the main challenge of their lives. This is not to say that poor societies do not have respect for their own environment- Native American nations, for example, generally have a profoundly spiritual relationship with their natural environment (though it has often been abused by outside forces). I have also noted that countries and people in the second phase of development, such as China, are quite aware of the collateral environmental deterioration occurring along with their industrialization and modernization. Yet in countries such as China, not only is domestic investment capital scarce, but also social priorities, including environmental quality, are set mostly by government rather than popular choice. Investments aimed at cleaning the environment typically have not reached the top of the governments priority scale, because other social investments (eg. in energy production, housing, education, and industrial production for consumption and exports) have been seen as providing far greater benefits. As mentioned above, this situation is changing as China’s economy rapidly grows.

The Expert answers:

Paragraph 1:
For people in all the undeveloped countries , chronic poverty is not only understood as the deprivation of basic freedom. Rather, it includes the deprivation of Health care , lack of education , putting restrictions on political liberty and basic civil rights.

Paragraph 2:
Amarthya Sen, an economist and Nobel laureate says; without freedom , rational choices will take control over the country . No opportunities would be given to individuals to take the advantage to gain proper education, get a career , and get the best health care. And those are the basic values for a healthy and sustainable society .

Paragraph 3:
Sen’s arguments with the governments have ended up with two points; First, hostile environment and historical wars could have been placed number 1 priority for citizens that they had little interest on environmental issues. Second, governments have set several priorities rather than individual’s priorities such as education, domestic investments and social issues

Hope that helps

Ruth asks…

nNeed Help summarizing…?

Can someone help me summarize these paragraphs?

Development of freedom

Whether in sub-Saharan, China or elsewhere, chronic poverty deprives numbers of people of the incentives and economic means to care for and nourish their natural environment. Yet being poor is only one element of people’s blighted relationship to the environment. According to economist and Nobel laureate Amarthya Sen, poverty needs to understood in broader terms than only the lack of monetary income. Sen argues that poverty should be characterized fundamentally in terms of the deprivation of basic freedoms, rather than merely low incomes. In his view, development not only has the economic dimension with which it is usually understood but, more important, requires the removal of the “unfreedoms” endured by most people in underdeveloped countries. Besides poverty, these unfreedoms include, deprivation of health care, lack of sanitation, exclusion from education (especially women), exclusion from market activities, and above all, tyrannical regimes associated with systematic deprivation of political liberty and basic civil rights.

Development, in Sen’s view, must included the freedom of democratic choices as well as the freedom of economic choices. Without such freedoms, people lack the opportunity for education, public debate, and discussion, which make possible rational choices about quality of life issues, including the environment, as well as rational choices about their families or their government. It follows that environmental improvement requires not only a measure of economic power for individuals but also the broader freedoms of individuals to set priorities for themselves, their families, and their society. Such freedoms also nourish the development of social values and environmental ethnics going beyond the bounds of government regulations and market rules. These values and ethnics are essentials for developing a healthy and sustainable environment.
I have argued above that countries and people in the earliest stage of development tend to have little interest in environmental issues as typically understood in the individual countries, such as rain or global warming. In the subsistence phase, sheer survival amidst historically hostile environments has usually been the main challenge of their lives. This is not to say that poor societies do not have respect for their own environment- Native American nations, for example, generally have a profoundly spiritual relationship with their natural environment (though it has often been abused by outside forces). I have also noted that countries and people in the second phase of development, such as China, are quite aware of the collateral environmental deterioration occurring along with their industrialization and modernization. Yet in countries such as China, not only is domestic investment capital scarce, but also social priorities, including environmental quality, are set mostly by government rather than popular choice. Investments aimed at cleaning the environment typically have not reached the top of the governments priority scale, because other social investments (eg. in energy production, housing, education, and industrial production for consumption and exports) have been seen as providing far greater benefits. As mentioned above, this situation is changing as China’s economy rapidly grows.

The Expert answers:

Paragraph 1:
For people in all the undeveloped countries , chronic poverty is not only understood as the deprivation of basic freedom. Rather, it includes the deprivation of Health care , lack of education , putting restrictions on political liberty and basic civil rights.

Paragraph 2:
Amarthya Sen, an economist and Nobel laureate says; without freedom , rational choices will take control over the country . No opportunities would be given to individuals to take the advantage to gain proper education, get a career , and get the best health care. And those are the basic values for a healthy and sustainable society .

Paragraph 3:
Sen’s arguments with the governments have ended up with two points; First, hostile environment and historical wars could have been placed number 1 priority for citizens that they had little interest on environmental issues. Second, governments have set several priorities rather than individual’s priorities such as education, domestic investments and social issues

Hope that helps

Charles asks…

Need Help! English troubles.?

Can someone please help me summarize this….

Development of freedom

Whether in sub-Saharan, China or elsewhere, chronic poverty deprives numbers of people of the incentives and economic means to care for and nourish their natural environment. Yet being poor is only one element of people’s blighted relationship to the environment. According to economist and Nobel laureate Amarthya Sen, poverty needs to understood in broader terms than only the lack of monetary income. Sen argues that poverty should be characterized fundamentally in terms of the deprivation of basic freedoms, rather than merely low incomes. In his view, development not only has the economic dimension with which it is usually understood but, more important, requires the removal of the “unfreedoms” endured by most people in underdeveloped countries. Besides poverty, these unfreedoms include, deprivation of health care, lack of sanitation, exclusion from education (especially women), exclusion from market activities, and above all, tyrannical regimes associated with systematic deprivation of political liberty and basic civil rights.

Development, in Sen’s view, must included the freedom of democratic choices as well as the freedom of economic choices. Without such freedoms, people lack the opportunity for education, public debate, and discussion, which make possible rational choices about quality of life issues, including the environment, as well as rational choices about their families or their government. It follows that environmental improvement requires not only a measure of economic power for individuals but also the broader freedoms of individuals to set priorities for themselves, their families, and their society. Such freedoms also nourish the development of social values and environmental ethnics going beyond the bounds of government regulations and market rules. These values and ethnics are essentials for developing a healthy and sustainable environment.
I have argued above that countries and people in the earliest stage of development tend to have little interest in environmental issues as typically understood in the individual countries, such as rain or global warming. In the subsistence phase, sheer survival amidst historically hostile environments has usually been the main challenge of their lives. This is not to say that poor societies do not have respect for their own environment- Native American nations, for example, generally have a profoundly spiritual relationship with their natural environment (though it has often been abused by outside forces). I have also noted that countries and people in the second phase of development, such as China, are quite aware of the collateral environmental deterioration occurring along with their industrialization and modernization. Yet in countries such as China, not only is domestic investment capital scarce, but also social priorities, including environmental quality, are set mostly by government rather than popular choice. Investments aimed at cleaning the environment typically have not reached the top of the governments priority scale, because other social investments (eg. in energy production, housing, education, and industrial production for consumption and exports) have been seen as providing far greater benefits. As mentioned above, this situation is changing as China’s economy rapidly grows.

The Expert answers:

Shouldn’t you be doing your own homework and not trying to get someone else to do it for you?

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Your Questions About Green Living

Mark asks…

What differs Bush’s “oil” money mongering from Al Gore’s “alternative energy” money mongering?

Stock vs. Stock….

Do we buy from Asia, or the Middle East?

The Expert answers:

Mostly because President Bush’s investments are held in a blind trust (where he does not know where the money is invested) until he gets out of office. This eliminates conflict of interests.

Gore on the other hand went and wrote legislation to send business directly to a company he owned.

Nancy asks…

documentary on alt energy. where can i get free stock footage online?

our school documentary is on alternative energy. we want to use free stock footage. is this available anywhere online?

The Expert answers:

Try the CC (Creative Commons) search engine at http://search.creativecommons.org/#

I have never used the search myself, but all footage licensed under CC is free (as long as you attribute your sources somewhere in your documentary)

Mary asks…

Want to crush demand for BP: how can we encourage alternative energy use?

Here are a few ideas….I’m wondering if any of you have any others:
A) Find ways to have fun locally rather than “driving into town” to do that.
B) Give up your SUV for a small car or, better yet, a motorcycle or public transit. With the latter two you get more MPG than with just about any “Hybrid”, plus its a whole lot cheaper.
C) When you travel, carpool (2 or more people at all times)
D) Turn your A/C a good 10 degrees higher (IE 80 instead of 70 degrees).
E) Going 7 miles or less near good roads? Take the bicycle instead.
F) Got stocks in BP? Take them out, now!…and put them in competitors such as Shell who have much stricter safety standards (we’re talking 2 even fairly minor safety violations and employees get fired).
G) Lobby and vote for transit improvements to go toward things like HOV lanes and public transit, rather than wider highways. While you’re at it, vote for things like stricter fines for drivers needlessly obstructing traffic, rubbernecking, and not paying attention who often cause fuel-burning traffic jams.

The Expert answers:

Hi there
We have to increase public awareness to alternative fuels in all the ways that we can.
Solar is making headway and so are ocean wind farms,wave power is another easy green alternative.
Forcing and penalizing never works it just gets peoples backs up.
Electric cars are now a viable proposition as long as they run on green produced electric.

We need to educate the worlds populace into the benefits of green alternatives

David asks…

I don’t understand the disagreements over global warming?

Given the huge number of variables, many probably not even identified, events such as climate change will be debated up to either the completion or elimination of the event. Anyone who has taken high school chemistry should understand the theory and why it is possible.

Personally, I’m convinced something is happening, and have made changes to be far more energy efficient in my life and career. If I’m right, I’ve made my contribution to eliminating the problem.

If I’m wrong, here’s the impact on me: my fuel bills for my car and home are cut in half, the bottom line at my business is stronger due to reduced energy costs, my new landscaping looks awesome, and I have a slightly clearer conscience on wars over oil. I also have enjoyed some nice capital gains on emerging alternative energy stocks. It’s all win/win for me.

For you folks who disagree that man has an impact on global warming: if you’re right, you get bragging rights (but you still pay more for energy than I do)

What if you’re wrong? I’m anxious to hear your answers.
To dbj5: It’s not an unbiased opinion, it’s carefully considered. The price of oil is flirting with 100/b USD. If you think it will stay at $100, give me some of what you’re drinking.

As for spreading my bias, I have never commissioned or funded a research paper into global warming. I’m just assuming that people will quickly tire of 100+USD oil and seek out alternatives. We all know that people will vote with their wallets long before there is any legislation dealing with greenhouse gases. I see no disconnect in investing in my beliefs.

The Expert answers:

Pat yourself on the back- You get it.

Those that believe man is causing the end of the world want everyone to do as you have, except they want government to force them to do so.

You made changes to your life and can tell others the good that you’re experiencing and convince them to make changes as they see fit to make to their lifestyle.

Good for you, and I hope more believers see that your approach is better than theirs.

Linda asks…

What is going on with the stock market!!!? All 3 of my index funds are sinking like crazy…?

I own vnaguard total international stock index, total stock index, & gaaex (alternative energy companies)—- ALL are sinking EVERY day for the past few days— Im losing 1000s… is it time to pull out or wait it out?
I am willing to leave this money alone for 5-10 years — but all these sharp declines across the board are making me jittery

The Expert answers:

From the tone of your question, it sounds like you have taken on more risk than you can tolerate. That indicates that you are probably in the wrong investments. If you did not do this when you bought your funds, its time to consider why you should won these investments, and what catalyst will cause you to sell.

Each or your funds is reacting to slightly different catalysts.
1;) alternative energy index: This fund will tend to move with the price of crude oil. Crude has fallen back down to the $90 level. Its fairly normal for oil to sink as we approach the end of the heating season, then pick up again when the summer driving/hurricane season starts. If you believe the long term trend for energy demand and oil prices is up, just ride it out and keep this fund. If you believe that oil has peaked and will continue to fall, sell.
2.) total stock index: the general market has been down since the beginning of a year. Most technical analysts are now saying we are in a bear (down trending) market. If you have a short time frame (less than a year), sell on an up day. If you have a longer time frame, ride it out.
3.) International stock index: Most of the world markets have been experiencing a pull back. Pull backs are normal and expected. I f you believe that the worldwide expansion is intact, hold on. If you believe we are heading into a worldwide slow down, get out.

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Your Questions About Green Living

James asks…

When will oil companies decide to switch over to renewable energy?

Will it be before they suck up all the world‘s oil resources or after? and can governments put more pressure on oil giants such as BP, Exxon Mobil, Shell etc to speed up the transition.

The Expert answers:

Oil companies produce oil. Why would they change businesses? They have been successful at the one their in.

Mandy asks…

Is Hydro electricity a Renewable energy?

Many in the energy community on the west coast of the USA and the world feel that Hydro electric power in its current form is a non-renewable energy source. They feel this way because how we currently make hydro power is a non-sustainable way of making power and a to be renewable you have to be sustainable. What do you think?

The Expert answers:

Hydroelectric power can be a renewable energy source. But it requires some planning and care.

On one level, it obviously is renewable–as long as a river continues to flow, the electricity can be generated.

However, like most things its not that simple. Altering the local ecology with a dam and resevoir can have unintended side effects–sometimes negative. And those have to be taken into account. If a hydroelectric facility disrupts the ecology in ways that make the whole project unstainable overall, then its hard to consider it a truely renewable resource.

Hydroelectri power, in and of itself, however, is renewable–used properly.

William asks…

How different would the World be if the USA spent half of its war chest on renewable energies and peace?

The Expert answers:

We would be worse off! Our defense would be weakened. Renewable energy is not reliable, and there would be MORE wars because we could not defend those who are attacked, like Israel, Japan, and Taiwan.

Michael asks…

Which country’s power resources all come from renewable energy resources?

Which country uses the most wind, solar and hydroelectric energy resources in the world?

The Expert answers:

Brazil

Nancy asks…

The Future Energy of the World?

Do you think the US should be investing in Hydrogen technology for the future?

Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe, and Hydrogen is gas is used to power fuel cells, which have the potential of being 95.4% efficient. It is a clean renewable energy alternative, that when used in a fuel cell produces water (clean pure water). It is not only good for the environment but some scientist are researching it as being able to be a self generating source for electricity. the argument against it is it cost a little more to make then drilling for gas and oil or stripping the land away to get to the coal buried beneath. In 2006 the US and World energy agencies all declared that oil reached it’s peak production. that is the oil left in the ground can no longer sustain the current rate it is being used. in the nest two or three decades oil may no longer be available to power cars, heat homes, make plastic…
The Hydrogen fuel cell technology is over two hundred years old, but it has not been looked at until the 90s as an alternative. Wouldn’t it make sense to commit to using it where it will help purify the waters of the earth, There are no greenhouses gases formed by using it, and every home could have it’s own power station, as well as ever car.

The Expert answers:

Fortunately there are some very bright scientists working on it. I saw a TV program last night showing some examples of what’s being done. One of the most interesting projects was an attempt to use something similar to photosynthesis to extract hydrogen from water. If this can be perfected it would be a thoroughly green way to produce hydrogen for fuel cells. The only energy required would come from the sun.

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Your Questions About Green Living

George asks…

What do u think about the issue of sustainability and sustainable development?

Sustainability is meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs while sustainable develpoment is a process of achievement of individual human and social potential that protects and where necessary regenerates the natural environment rather than destroying it. Is sustainability an important issue and to what extend that they are necessary…?

The Expert answers:

Sooner or later we will be forced to live in a sustainable manner. My guess is that we won’t do it until there is no other option. We won’t stop depending on oil until it runs out for example.

Paul asks…

Concentration for Undergrad: Sustainable development or Architecture. Future career?

I am an urban studies major at Columbia University. I have an interest in both sustainable development and architecture. Unfortunately, due to the requirements in my major, I cannot concentrate in both. Which one would be more beneficial career-wise in the long run? I am interested in urban planning and real estate development

The Expert answers:

The best advice is to follow your passion. Sustainable development is becoming a major issue in larger cities, so you can probably make a good career of it. Architecture is already established, and is a much needed profession.

Looking at urban planning/sustainable development you will most likely find yourself in, or at least contracted to, a municipal government. Architecture, will likely be higher paid, corporate work.

Robert asks…

What is Sustainable development?

What is Sustainable development?

The Expert answers:

Sustainable development is a pattern of resource use that aim to meet human needs while preserving the environment so that these needs can be met not only in the present, but in the indefinite future. The term was used by the Brundtland Commission which coined what has become the most often-quoted definition of sustainable development as development that “meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”

The field of sustainable development can be conceptually broken into three constituent parts: environmental sustainability, economic sustainability and sociopolitical sustainability.

Mark asks…

how are the renewable/non renewable resources connected with sustainable development?

I kind of know the meaning of sustainable development, in which society is trying to enhance technologies ec.. to make the world better, also thinking about future generations. Then i also know what are the renewable and non renewable resources, but i have a test coming up on sustaianabel development, and have a problem how to connect/mention the resources when talking abt sdevelopment. thanks alot

The Expert answers:

Sustainable development, is any form of development that humans contribute to, to be practised with continuity and lonegevity in mind.

In other words if your logging a rainforest to build houses, you could plant new trees to replace the resources that have been used. Thus creating a sustainable practise that you can continue for many years to come. If you cut down a rainforest and leave the land barren, not only will you have nothing to return to, but you will eventually run out of wood, which is a resource, so that is unsustainable.

To answer your question about renewable and non renewable resources. It basically the same issue. The world has a limited supply of oil, we cannot create it, we cannot replace it. So once its used up, we’re gonna have to move onto a new resource to power the worlds engines. Its unsustainable.

If we utilise the sun’s energy or wind energy, we can predict these cycles will continue, the sun will continue to shine and the wind will always be there etc. These are sustainble resources, so if we develop technologies that can harness these forms of energy, eg. A solar powered car, then we are practising sustainable development.

Joseph asks…

What type of capital most suit the ‘pillar of sustainable development’ social?

It has wat are the three pillars of sustainable devopment. One of the pillars is social and it says wat types of capital r most relevent to social. thanx

The Expert answers:

Look in the real world.
Decode this lyrics ” Knowing me knowing you”
Majority in control?
Cash?
Human capital?
Knowledge capital?
Coconut trees?
Coconut shells?
Which has tested with time?
Luke 21.30-36
What do you think?

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Your Questions About Green Living

Linda asks…

Do companies like Nike sell shoes that are made from organic or recycled material?

I need new runners and I want to buy ones that are made from recycled material or something EcoFriendly. I live in Canada and don’t have a lot of stores to choose from. Do any “famous” brands sell shoes that are better for the environment? Thanks.

The Expert answers:

So far the only other companies I have seen that have shoe from recycled materials are all for the outdoor market or what I call casual. Simple shoes and I believe Teva are two that I remember. I know Teva does make a few trail runners – just not sure if they are recycled.

John asks…

Eco-Friendly Stufffsss(:?

Okay, Tomorrow’s Earth Day & I neeeedd some help!
I have a shirt picked out “Earth Day Every Day” (white & Green), Pair of Blue Jeans, Brown Shoes, how should I wear my hair? I want it to look Mother-Nature-y? & How can I make some ecofriendly stuff to wear? Maybe a bracelet er something like that ; out of stuff that’s probably already at my house though…Whoever comes the most ecofriendly to school gets extra credit on a Science Test, & considering I’m failing, I need all the help I could get.
Please? 😀
It doesn’t actually have to BE ecofriendly,
as long as it looks nature-ey(x

The Expert answers:

Where it in a Bun xD

Richard asks…

What are some cool eco-friendly or recycled products?

I wanted to see if there were any products the answer’s community would know about that are pretty cool and useful.

I’m not talking about a ‘green’ water heater or anything, I’m talking about stuff like this, the mighty wallet. It’s made from recycled material, it’s strong, tear-resistant, and water-resistant.
http://www.dynomighty.com/products.php?s=mighty%20wallets

There’s also these shoes I like from Simple.
http://www.simpleshoes.com/productDetails.aspx?g=&productID=2945&model=CARport%20-%20Elastic%20Lace

I just didn’t know if there are some other products I don’t know about that people generally use everyday that’s recycled or ecofriendly and relatively cool. All answers are welcome, and if you can, include a link to the site showing the product off.

The Expert answers:

Well … “cool recycled products” brings something funny to mind. The bud light commercial with the house made of bud light cans. HAHA….

On a more serious note…
I made a binder for school out of a few pieces of cardboard from an old box, and some old clothes that didn’t fit me anymore. I used a pair of jeans for the outside, and some boxers for the inside. I cut the pockets out and sewed them on the outside of the binder. I thought it was pretty cool. Lasted me quite a while (despite being poorly hand sewn), and I passed it on as a gift later on.

Maria asks…

what stores downtown have the best selection of Toms Shoes?? (Manhattan NYC)?

I want to get some TOM’s shoes (the eco friendly green ones) for my trip i’m leaving Friday so i will not have time to order online. Where can I find a good selection of colors in New York???

Thanks!

The Expert answers:

Nordstroms without a doubt!
I found my silver toms and my black glitter toms there! They had at least 16 different slip on styles not to mention the vegan ones, and the platform ones!
Can’t wait to hear what style you pick!!

Donna asks…

Do TOMS shoes smell as bad as people say they do?

I feel like getting a pair of TOMS shoes, but I’ve heard some people say that they smell after awhile. Obviously if you wear shoes without socks they’re bound to smell at some point, but my question is do they start to smell immediately, and is it completely rank (since they’re suppose to be ecofriendly)?

The Expert answers:

Ok im a guy and my toms smell horrible, i hate taking them off when i go some were, especially to my girlfriends, they are super comfy, you can get whats called Flats socks i think and its like a sock that barley goes past your toes and they are perfect to wear with toms but i never wear socks with mine and they reek

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Your Questions About Green Living

Donald asks…

What are the pros and cons to alternative energy and nonrenewable energy?

Answer that has the most pros and cons to both alternative and nonrenewable energy will receive the ten points. best answer will be chosen around 2 hours after this post is submitted or possibly 7 hours if I wake up to check this post tomorrow morning. It is currently 9:38 p.m.

The Expert answers:

Methane, Water vapor and CO2 are greenhouse gases. Three Mile Island accident, Chernobyl accident and Fukushima nuclear plant explosion aided by earthquake and tsunami and the threat from terrorists and suicide bombers makes nuclear energy source riskiest. Better emit greenhouse gases than radioactive emissions that are capable of making 4000 sqkm area around Chernobyl unlivable for mankind till date. Land is required to sustain a huge population. Humans exhale CO2 so they are also a source of greenhouse gas. Countries like France whose 80% of electricity comes from nuclear stand a high risk for not only French but the whole European continent. France should be made to bring this 80% value to as low as 20% (contribution of nuclear in US power output) by using the alternatives that other European countries are using. France should be taxed for consistently keeping the danger of nuclear accident for Europe. Every source has its pros and cons but the sources whose cons will cause the most severe disaster have to be used minimally. Nuclear is such a source. Equally important are population control, control of power theft and saving of power which are totally sidelined in developing countries like India and China. Renewable energy sources are good for small capacities but for long capacities oil and gas and coal are good. Brazil has been using ethanol. But rest of the world has shortage of farming land and growing food price inflation which restricts use of foodcrops for energy usage. Ultimately all available energy sources have to be used and the one with most hazard should be the lowest contributor. A country has to consider its population and land area before selecting this mix of contributors. Dutch people use bicycles to travel even to their offices instead of vehicles needing oil or natural gas. Riding bicycles reduces energy consumption, keeps the people healthy and keeps the environment clean. Bicycle accident will be preferred over a car accident. U will see in the US a big car having only one person who is driving the long distances and that car still has place for atleast 4 people to sit. Office location and town planning has to be done in such a way that people dont have to travel long distances for their work-people should be able to come walking or using bicycle. Energy has to be used like a miser.

Sharon asks…

What is an Alternative Energy that could be used for Aluminum Production?

Aluminium production currently releases a massive amount of greenhouse gases in to the atmosphere. Does anyone think there is an Alternative Energy source the Aluminum Industry could use to prevent the amount of Greenhouse Gases they are currently releasing?

The Expert answers:

Alternative fuels, also known as non-conventional fuels, are any materials or substances that can be used as a fuel, other than conventional fuels. Conventional fuels include: fossil fuels (petroleum (oil), coal, propane, and natural gas), and nuclear materials such as uranium.

Some well known alternative fuels include biodiesel, bioalcohol (ethanol, butanol), chemically stored electricity (batteries and fuel cells), hydrogen, non-fossil methane, non-fossil natural gas, vegetable oil and other biomass sources.
Compressed natural gas (CNG) is a cleaner burning alternative to conventional petroleum automobile fuels. The energy efficiency is generally equal to that of gasoline engines, but lower compared with modern diesel engines. CNG vehicles require a greater amount of space for fuel storage than conventional gasoline power vehicles because CNG takes up more space for each GGE (Gallon of Gas Equivalent). Almost any existing gasoline car can be turned into a bi-fuel (gasoline/CNG) car. However, natural gas is a finite resource like all fossil fuels, and production is expected to peak soon after oil does.[11]

There are large but finite coal reserves which may increasingly be used as a fuel source during oil depletion. The Fischer-Tropsch process converts carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide into heavier hydrocarbons, including synthetic oil. It is used today in South Africa to produce most of that country’s diesel from coal. The Karrick process is an improved methodology for coal liquefaction, with higher efficiency. Since there are large but finite coal reserves in the world, this technology could be used as an interim transportation fuel if conventional oil were to become scarce. There are several companies developing the process to enable practical exploitation of so-called stranded gas reserves, those reserves which are impractical to exploit with conventional gas pipelines and LNG technology.

Methane hydrate is a form of natural gas. This substance consists of methane molecules trapped within the crystalline structure of water ice and is found in deposits under ocean sediments or within continental sedimentary rock formations. It is estimated that the global inventory of methane hydrate may equal as much as 10x the amount of natural gas. With current technology, most gas hydrate deposits are unlikely to be commercially exploited as an energy source. In addition, the combustion of methane results in the formation of carbon dioxide the production of carbon dioxide is no different to any conventional petrolium fuel. Methane itself is also a greenhouse gas, so if it is “spilled” or released it will contribute to global warming. In other respects methane hydrate has the same problems of fossil fuel.

James asks…

What is the democratic and Obama version of alternative energy? When will it be available at what cost?

Can all people of America change their cars and energy usage to alternative one?

We have >150 millions cars in USA. Can car owners abandon theirs for newer versions in 5-10 years time if alternatives available.

The Expert answers:

Let me quote Obama himself:

“There are things you can do individually, though, to save energy,” Obama said. “Making sure your tires are properly inflated – simple thing. But we could save all the oil that they’re talking about getting off drilling – if everybody was just inflating their tires? And getting regular tune-ups? You’d actually save just as much!”

William asks…

What is the purpose of looking into alternative energy sources?

What is the purpose of looking into alternative energy sources?

The Expert answers:

Currently most of the energy that we use has a side effect of pouring CO2 into our atmosphere which is probably contributing to global warming. We would like to find energy that doesn’t do this.

We can use nuclear energy but that also has waste harmful to humans that is tricky to deal with.

It would be nice to get away from them by using solar or something similar.

Lisa asks…

What type of engineering program deals with alternative energy?

i need to pick a program for college, and i want to do engineering. there isn’t a college that i can find that deals with alternative energy as a major, so i was wondering what major would be in a similar area. right now i’m thinking manufacturing engineering, but i dont know.

The Expert answers:

1. Lawrence technological University has an alternative energy engineering program.
2. The University of California, Berkley, offers a minor in Energy and Resources.

3. Graduate programs at UC Berkley offer specialisations in Energy and Resources.
4. Graduate programs at some engineering colleges offer specialisations in renewable energy.

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Your Questions About Green Living

Betty asks…

Whaich is contry is better for career in fuel cell and other renewable energy technologies, US or Australia?

I have job offer from both countries. Both organizations are equivalent in reputation and salary. I am thinking of 2 years from now.

The Expert answers:

I would love to live in Australia but the US is SO much larger and richer. I would think the US would be safer as far as job security, choice and advancement goes.

Lisa asks…

what are some good jobs that involve sustainability?

Im a freshman at the University of Oregon. I am a business major and I am interested in doing some kind of work in the sustainability field. Being a freshman I am no pro when it comes to sustainability, but I would like to do some kind of work that involves improving the environment and promoting renewable energy. Whats a good job I could possibly see myself doing in the futre?

The Expert answers:

Be a bureaucrat. You won’t be expected to produce anything. All you’ll need to do is harass the people who are actually trying to run a business.

Daniel asks…

Confused about Renewable energy…?

I am going for a job at a renewable energy company. You don’t need experience but I like to do research for any job that I am going for and this one has got me stumped. Can someone please explain (in very simple terms because the internet pages do not help me, just confuse me more) what renewable energy is, and any examples that might help me better understand. Thank you 🙂

The Expert answers:

Renewable energy is energy which comes from natural resources such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, and geothermal heat, which are renewable (naturally replenished). In 2006, about 18% of global final energy consumption came from renewables, with 13% coming from traditional biomass, which is mainly used for heating, and 3% from hydroelectricity. New renewables (small hydro, modern biomass, wind, solar, geothermal, and biofuels) accounted for another 2.4% and are growing very rapidly.The share of renewables in electricity generation is around 18%, with 15% of global electricity coming from hydroelectricity and 3.4% from new renewables.

Refer this site for more information http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Renewable_energy

Susan asks…

Becoming A Renewable energy Engineer?

Hello I am interested in becoming a renewable energy engineer.I dont know if thats the exact name of it but I want to be the people that study new ways to get energy like wind and solar.

I want to create and research technology that will get us off oil once and for all.But What is that jobs name and What do I study to be able to do it.

The Expert answers:

First off, I’ve been working as a renewable energy engineer for the past 6 years. I’ve worked on a broad spectrum of projects, my primary interest has always been biofuels, but I’ve worked in other renewable energy and renewable resource industries as well. My degree is in chemical engineering.

It depends on what you actually want to do. Wind and solar power industries depend on mechanical and electrical engineers. The biofuel industries like ethanol, biodeisel, biomethanation, bio-gas (syngas and biomethane), and geothermal power industries depend on chemical engineers.

Chemical engineering as a discipline is incredibly diverse, you’ll have opportunities to work in any chem engineering role, as well as the ability to branch out and do work that would typically be fit for mechanical or electrical engineers also. I’ve worked on wind power generation as well as water power generation projects in addition to EXTENSIVE cutting edge research in biofuels.

As far as creating and researching technology goes. I strongly recommend chemical engineering, and I STRONGLY recommend pursuing an advanced degree, and load up with electives to suit renewable energy including bioseparations, biochem processing, electrical engineering/power generation, fluid mechanics, etc etc. If you want to go the biofuels route, add membrane technology to the list. Also take internships that are industry based, not research based, that way you’ll diversify your experiences so you can run the lab with the “real world” in mind. Industrial experience is invaluable for implementing new technologies, but the advanced degree will help make sure you stay involved with research instead of just processing and production.

There are a lot of great RESCO’s to work for around the country. (Renewable Energy Service COmpany). Black and Veatch is expanding their renewable energy interests, Koch engineering as well, NREL is obviously a leader in renewable energy, GE, Ameresco, TetraTech, etc etc. To name some bigger houses, GEVO inc, Edenspace Inc, Midwest Research Institute, CH2M Hill, ICM etc etc to name some middle ground and smaller players that have big influences in the industry.

All that said, good luck with the career choice. I love what I do and I do it well. Some people choose to be a cog in the wheel that makes the world go round… But some of us choose to take charge and guide the world in the right direction. Renewable Energy is the right direction.

Sandra asks…

Why on Earth did Congress ever pass laws to give tax breaks to companies for sending jobs overseas?

What were they thinking? Was it “China will lend us money if we give them jobs“? I don’t get it.

Also people say the stimulus money made renewable energy jobs in China. What was wrong with making them here?
Hard to believe that special interest groups got ALL of Congress to sell us out. Or maybe they ARE all a bunch of crooks.
How did it slide by with no one noticing???
Yes, it costs them less in labor so why do they need a tax break on top of that??

Corporations owning Congress, yes, probably so. At least Obama is negotiating medicare prescription prices now or at least the insurance rates for medicare supplements.

The Expert answers:

It’s ownership of the Congress by corporations.

Unrestricted and untraceable funding of the election process in this country is the root of corruption. Companies don’t spend money without an expectation of return and you can bet that the candidates know where the money came from and what’s expected of them. Consider Medicare Part D, the Government can’t even negotiate prices (for the love of Mike!). How much did that cost the pharmaceutical industry and how many billions did it bring them? Add big oil, and big banking and the infection is pernicious and deep.

President Obama is right on this one.

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Your Questions About Green Living

Sandy asks…

Do any American grocery stores have plastic carrier bags?

…because in the UK nearly every store uses plastic carrier bags and in American movies and TV shows i have mostly seen them using brown paper bags. Also, Plastic carrier bags seem to be more convenient as they are stronger, water proof and have handles you can hold. Why don’t America use the plastic ones? Is it an environmental issue?

The Expert answers:

Most grocery stores in the U.S. Give you the option of paper or plastic. Almost all department stores use plastic. The only thing I think paper bags are good for is keeping cold and frozen foods cold while you travel home.

Michael asks…

are two stroke street legal sport bikes popular in America?

the place where I am from (far east), there are a lot of people who are interested in two stroke sport bikes like RGV, TZR, NSR250 or 125. I rarely see those two stroke bikes on American Ebay or other american motorcycle website. Is that because there is some kind of policies against two strokes for the environmental issue? I wonder if I can get an used two stroke sport bike like Aprilia RS125, or Honda NSR125 in America for daily transportation. I think those single cylinder two stroke bikes are easy to take care of, light, beautiful, and have just enough power if you ride in cities.
And.. roughly how much would a two stroke 125 or 250 cost?
Thanks guys…. maybe I just have to adjust myself to those four strokes. But I really miss the feeling of riding a screaming and smoking YAMAHA TZR250 flying on street.

The Expert answers:

Two-stroke street bikes are not sold here due to emissions regulations. Same with dirt bikes, soon if not already. The last 2-stroke sport bike widely available here was the Yamaha RZ350. The 1970’s was about the last time you had a wide choice of 2-strokes. The kawasaki triples of that era were fast and evil-handling. The Suzuki triples were relatively refined and handled decently.

My first bike was a Yamaha 2-stroke twin, and I rode a Bultaco Metralla extensively in the ’60s. More recently I have had a number of east European 2-strokes. I still run an MZ, a CZ dirt bike, and a Puch split single. You can still find them for sale, but very few riders run them for daily transportation. Modern 2-strokes, even from the gray market, are almost unheard-of here.

Ruth asks…

How low will wages go before our government begins to consider the economic welfare of her citizens?

The general level of wages in the USA continues to decline in line with the export of jobs, factories and industries to foreign countries. The government insists that American companies meet certain safety, environmental, regulatory and political regulations, but place no such restrictions on foreign firms. Our government claims that this “free trade” is good for world, but what about America?

The issue of illegal immigration contributes to our declining wage scale, but our governmnent refuses to do anything about the illegals whose sheer volume have cut a wide path of economic distress through millions of good paying jobs. I once had many friends who worked construction and made enough money to buy a house and raise a family. Today, one must be a job foreman in order to provide the same standard and then must be bilingual in order to be considered for the job.

It appears the moneyed powers who control our governmnent and profit from our distress have a firm lock on our future.
So many pompous and arrogant Americans—you have completely missed the point of the question. You deserve your futures!

The Expert answers:

We live in a representative democracy. Our representatives will not be re-elected if the economic welfare of the citizenry is not maintained. The wealthy of this country sometimes forget that without the infrastructure that the government provides wealth itself would not exist. The wealthy are only a small portion of the population. The rest of the population will out vote the wealthy to get the government to get a more level playing field.

Richard asks…

I need help on this Geography question!! Thanks!!?

Okay… so in geography it says…

**Select an environmental issue faced by the countries of this region. Write a brief essay describing the problems presented by each issue and possible solutions to these problems.

I am studying South America and here are the issues..

*ISSUE
Land-

*PROMLEM
loss of farmland
land degradation
ownership rights

*CAUSE
erosion
industrialization
urbanization
agricultural expansion
population increase

*POSIBLE SOLUTION
sustainable land management practices
public awareness

So can you please right an little essay for that? Thanks so much!! I really appriciate it!! 🙂

The Expert answers:

R u serious? Wow

Joseph asks…

How do you think we can increase the environmental efficiency of Americas fastest growing community type?

In America, suburban sprawl is occuring at a rapid pace. While high density urban living and low density rural living are intrinsically more ecologically friendly, suburban life poses a whole new set of issues to deal with. What ideas do you have to “green up” the suburbs?

The Expert answers:

This is difficult, because the suburbs by design are far away from where people work and shop. While the green expanses of lawn do prevent water runoff that a parking lot wouldn’t, grass is still a monoculture that does little to benefit wildlife and much to pollute when it needs a shave.

Still there are ways… There are always ways…

I like your term ‘environmental efficiency’. To me that means how to allow ecosystems to coexist with people in suburbs. By replanting native trees cleared when the suburb was created (why must they always do that? Never mind, i know the answer) homeowners can recreate a portion of the local ecosystem. If there were marshes before, create basins to simulate them. Replicate nature. Plant and manage small garden plots and fruit bearing trees, instead of large expanses of grass. Not only will the wildlife be less affected by abrupt changes in the landscape, but the land values will be affected positively by these changes.

Design suburbs with adequate shopping and job opportunities, so residents won’t have to spend 90 minutes in their cars every day. Shade trees and parkways vs six lane ‘boulevards’? Mass transit opportunities? All bonuses when planning and constructing ‘new’ communities… And ‘existing’ rights of way and structures need not be affected, because there are few or none.

Suburbs offer opportunities for sound planning that are hard to implement in existing cities. If we look at them as chances to make fresh starts, they don’t seem quite as scary environmentally.

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Your Questions About Green Living

William asks…

what is the sustainable community built in Brazil that does research in green technologies?

I had read about a community in brazil that has played a major part in proving that sustainable communities are possible by using micro grids, mini hydro turbines and small wind turbines. I cannot remember the name or find anything online.

The Expert answers:

Perhaps you are thinking of Ecoversidade? Http://www.livingroutes.org/programs/e_ecoversidade.htm

Hope this helps!

– Aaron Dalton, Editor, http://1GreenProduct.com

Sandra asks…

Is there a good website to find out about ethical and sustainable designers and company’s?

Currently doing some research into sustainable designers and company’s but having a bit of trouble finding any good websites and wondered if anyone out there had any website suggestions?

I’m looking for company’s who are well known for being sustainable.

The Expert answers:

Yes, but there is no link for that website…

Nancy asks…

How is the rainforest being managed in a sustainable way?

Geography homework – to research how the rainforest is being managed in a sustainable way?

The Expert answers:

It is? That’s news to me.

Lizzie asks…

What is sustainable fossil fuel consumption?

If fossil fuel production were to remain what it is now (very slow), and every human consumed the same amount of fossil fuels, what would be the sustainable level of consumption for each person? Sustainable means able to be done forever. Thanks! 😀

The Expert answers:

Fossil fuel is the chemically stored energy of the sun collected by photosynthesis over millions of years. Sustainable fossil fuel consumption would be to use strictly solar energy rather than energy that had been stored by nature over time.

John asks…

What are the roles of a Quantity Surveyor in promoting and helping to create Sustainable Construction?

Quantity Surveyor is also known as a Building Cost Consultant or a Construction Estimator.

So I’m curious as to what part can a QS play when it comes to embracing the environment and developing Sustainable Construction.

The Expert answers:

These guys are really just bean counters. They just keep track of costs, or estimate costs for proposals of a new building. Maybe they can find savings from one part of a project to spend on a “sustainable” part of the project.
You need the architect of record to be the one pushing for sustainable construction. Also the owner of the project has to really want to do it. Things like geothermal HVAC systems and living roofs with solar panels are great for sustainable construction. But the up front cost are ENORMOUS! A typical HVAC sytem for a commercial building is about $40,000. A geothermal system in the same building is $500,000. It will pay itself off in the long run, but that could be 15-20 years. Govenment might be able to afford those kinds of upgrades for a school or library that they plan on using for 80 years; but a developer that’s trying to make money isn’t going to want to spend 10 or 20 times the cost just to “be green”.

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Your Questions About Green Living

Ken asks…

How to wash clothes eco friendly?

I would like to know how can I wash my clothes, efficiently and eco friendly.

The Expert answers:

Get a he front-loading washer with the highest spin rate you can get use an eco friendly detergent (I use ECOS) hook the washer up to rain barrels and for dryer use a clothesline when possible and a dryer with a moisture sensor when not possible. If you choose not to go with the rain barrels there are systems that store one loads rinse water to be used for the next loads initial wash water which would effectively cut water use in half and as the water from the final rinse would have some detergent may cut down on need for detergent.

Donna asks…

What Do You Think Of Eco-friendly Paper Clothing?

This is for a project of mine regarding ‘Sustainable Paper Fashion’:

House-Wear, a brand founded by Laura Sansone has created ecofriendly paper clothing instead of the usual organic cotton. These lightweight clothing are made up of flame-proof washable, breathable, recyclable paper called Tyvek.

Here is an example:
http://www.inhabitat.com/wp-content/uploads/yukahousewaresdress.jpg

Firstly, do you think it is a fresh and interesting idea?
Secondly, would you purchase such paper clothing to help save the environment?

Thanks!

The Expert answers:

Could be offensive to muslims

Betty asks…

Would you wear eco-friendly clothing?

Or sustainable in terms of fair trade and the like if they were fashionable, and just a bit higher priced than what you’re used to?

The Expert answers:

Yes, I would, but only if they were as you say just a bit higher priced.

Charles asks…

What are some eco/worker friendly companies to buy clothes from?

I would like to shop online for eco/worker friendly clothes from companies like Patagonia. I need a company that ships to the United States.

The Expert answers:

American appearal and urban outfitteres

John asks…

Would you shop from a retail store exclusively carrying ‘eco friendly’ clothes and accessories?

The clothes are actually really cool and isn’t all “green and granola”. Just wondering if fashionista consumers would find it intriguing to walk into an eco friendly clothing store without having preconceived ideas on whether or not we’d be carrying all Birkenstocks and hemp clothes (which we’re not).

The Expert answers:

I would definitely go into a store like that

but it all depends on whether the clothes is fashionable and affordable

those are the main factors that would decide if i was gonna buy anything and come back the store.

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