Your Questions About Green Living

Green Living Q & A 0 Comment

Donna asks…

what are your thoughts about the food system?

like sustainable food, how it effect our environment

The Expert answers:

I think that the current factory/big corporation system as a whole is corrupt and broken. They are poisoning us and our planet. I recently heard that there is NO place on our planet now that hasn’t been exposed to chemicals and pesticides. That is the standard system. While the Organic movement is trying very hard to practice safe and sustainable methods and produce nutrient rich foods. The problem comes from these big companies having a lot of money, government support and subsidies. And the government ( FDA specifically ) makes it VERY hard for these organic farmers to get the proper certifications and the USDA Organic label. Plus there is the cost of organic foods in stores and a lot of misinformation going around about how it isn’t a big deal to buy organic and how it isn’t better for you etc. While it is true that organic costs more, that is quickly changing. As it becomes more available and more people start to buy it the cost will come down. I’ve already noticed a drop in price in just the last 3 years or so.
You can also start thinking about the price difference from a different perspective. Think of it as making a contribution to helping save the planet and saving your own health. I eat mostly organic, unprocessed or lightly processed food for the better part of a decade now. And I rarely get sick now. I’ve only had a very bad cold once in 3 years. And then it only lasted for a couple of days. Where before I was sick pretty badly every winter.
If you want to know more I suggest that you find and watch the movie Food Inc.. There was also an episode of Modern Marvels on the History Channel about egg production that will open your eyes.

Mary asks…

Do “green food” terms, such as sustainable and non-GMO, confuse you?

The Expert answers:

Some times the labels can be quite confusing. “Green” “sustainable” “farm fresh” “free range” “cage free” “organic” are all terms that are often used. The problem is there is no uniform labelling regulations to insure accurate, informative and uniform labelling. If you want to know about each kind of label, individuals are forced to do their own research. But basically.

Non-GMO:
means non genetically modified. This does not mean it is organic, it just means that the product is free of genetic modifications.

Organic:
Organic on the other hand means the product is free from pesticides, herbicides, GM-free and is grown without the use of dangerous chemicals and artificial fertilisers. It is usually more expensive, but the quality is generally better. Organic food must meet strict guidlines to be labelled as such.

Farm fresh & cage free:
They are terms often used in dairy and egg products. Mostly they are advertising gimicks. Try to look for certified “free range” rather than the above vague labels.

Free range:
usually applies to eggs and poultry. It means the animals generally have better conditions to live in. Though these improvements are relative. But compared to intensive farms it’s an improvement.

I can understand your confusion. There really should be a more uniform system. But I hope my answer has helped.

Jenny asks…

In the even of a nuclear war, Marijuana will be our only viable food source, will police still attack it?

In the even of a Nuclear war the fastest sustainable food supply to grow would be marijuana. It is the highest source of protein next to soybean.

Pot just might save the remaining survivors in the world when all hell breaks loose.

Will you still obey the police when they tell you that you can’t eat because there is no food and marijuana is the only viable source of fast quick food production.

We’ll see how terrible that it is when it is the only crop that can survive harsh conditions and will grow 20 feet in 8 months.

The Expert answers:

U sure ur smoking only weed? U sound like a classic crack head to me..

Ken asks…

How can we make big corporate food service companies more environmentally responsible?

Chefs are always aware of the seasons as it brings a change in availability of produce. The availability of product and it’s price flux makes us painfully aware of weather, political, and social changes.

The restaurant industry is seeing a shift towards more eco-friendly packaging for both raw products coming in the back door, and prepared items going out the front door.

Yet, while many chefs are taking on the challenge of finding organic foods, purchasing from local farms and supporting sustainable agriculture practices, the environment is still hurting.

Many large food service corporations, such as Sodexho, Compass, and Aramark who net billions of dollars annually, are not as strict in practicing eco-friendly habits as small scale restaurants are.

How can we make these large companies make environmentally responsible changes?

The Expert answers:

Don’t do business with food service companies you deem to be not environmentally responsible. Hit them where it hurts, in their wallet.

Lizzie asks…

How can I buy fresh, mostly or completely unprocessed and safe meats and food using a sustainable budget?

I have been practically living off processed meats and food ever since I remember, after reading an article about how processed meats such as sausages, burgers, and the slices of ham/turkey etc cause bowel cancer, I was concerned as to what else does our society have to offer apart from processed meats

Although I thought consisting of a diet with only freshly prepared, unprocessed and mostly organic foods is an unsustainable idea, it is reasonable that to avoid all of these regular, new reports coming in about health concerns regarding almost EVERYTHING on the market, that type of diet is necessary…

So, my point is to ask, what meats are there that I can buy and consume which haven’t gone through a machine and have had twenty-five artificial pills or such added to them? Are the foods prepared at the back of supermarkets such as Morrison’s and Sainsburys fresh and unprocessed? However, these are much more expensive alternatives..

Whatever can be better than eating a constant, daily ration of perfectly sliced chicken or ham, I would be glad to know. Vegetables and fruit aren’t a concern, as they are avaliable fresh from the farm and/or are easily enough to grow in the garden.

The Expert answers:

Visit a proper butcher, but at the end of the day, you get what you pay for (although the Organic being healthy has recently be disproven).

If you want low intesitive, “good” meat, it’s going to cost you. If the farmer is paying twice as much for feed and land and getting half the produce, it will cost 4x more.

I’ve given up on the health scare, I don’t think anything is good for you these days.
Rather die younger having a happy and carefree life than older and miserable.

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Your Questions About Green Living

Green Living Q & A 0 Comment

Donna asks…

What are environmental issues that affecting middle/high schools today?

?

The Expert answers:

Excessive hot air containing vile amounts of socialism from the teachers and professors going on about global warming or cultural diversity or some other socialist BS nonsense that isnt even true. Or valid.

Chris asks…

What are the major environmental issues in Sri Lanka today?

The Expert answers:

I have never been to Sri Lanka or even studied anything about this interesting country.
However, I did find this east-to-follow article which (I hope) answers your question.
Good luck…. ~~~ 임

http://www.indexmundi.com/sri_lanka/environment_current_issues.html

Ken asks…

What environmental issues are present today that weren’t present in the 1970’s?

Global warming, etc.

The Expert answers:

The slaughter of thousands of birds every year by wind farms.

This includes the senseless killing of Golden Eagles.

Altamont Pass in California is one of the main culprits.

Nancy asks…

what is a big environmental issue today?

i have to write a short paper about an environmental issue and do not know what to write about. Can you please help me? Thank you

The Expert answers:

Declining reserves of fresh water for an exploding human population.

Joseph asks…

What are the main environmental issues we have in the world today?

The Expert answers:

Pollution, global warming, global dimming…

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Your Questions About Green Living

Green Living Q & A 0 Comment

William asks…

Please tell me how you feel about this – What GOP Leaders deem wasteful in Senate stimulus bill?

(CNN) — On Monday, Congressional Republican leaders put out a list of what they call wasteful provisions in the Senate version of the nearly $900 billion stimulus bill that is being debated:
The Senate is currently the nearly $900 billion economic stimulus bill.

The Senate is currently the nearly $900 billion economic stimulus bill.

• $2 billion earmark to re-start FutureGen, a near-zero emissions coal power plant in Illinois that the Department of Energy defunded last year because it said the project was inefficient.

• A $246 million tax break for Hollywood movie producers to buy motion picture film.

• $650 million for the digital television converter box coupon program.

• $88 million for the Coast Guard to design a new polar icebreaker (arctic ship).

• $448 million for constructing the Department of Homeland Security headquarters.

• $248 million for furniture at the new Homeland Security headquarters.

• $600 million to buy hybrid vehicles for federal employees.

• $400 million for the Centers for Disease Control to screen and prevent STD’s.

• $1.4 billion for rural waste disposal programs.
Don’t Miss

* GOP senators draft stimulus alternative

• $125 million for the Washington sewer system.

• $150 million for Smithsonian museum facilities.

• $1 billion for the 2010 Census, which has a projected cost overrun of $3 billion.

• $75 million for “smoking cessation activities.”

• $200 million for public computer centers at community colleges.

• $75 million for salaries of employees at the FBI.

• $25 million for tribal alcohol and substance abuse reduction.

• $500 million for flood reduction projects on the Mississippi River.

• $10 million to inspect canals in urban areas.

• $6 billion to turn federal buildings into “green” buildings.

• $500 million for state and local fire stations.

• $650 million for wildland fire management on forest service lands.

• $1.2 billion for “youth activities,” including youth summer job programs.

• $88 million for renovating the headquarters of the Public Health Service.

• $412 million for CDC buildings and property.

• $500 million for building and repairing National Institutes of Health facilities in Bethesda, Maryland.

• $160 million for “paid volunteers” at the Corporation for National and Community Service.

• $5.5 million for “energy efficiency initiatives” at the Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration.

• $850 million for Amtrak.

• $100 million for reducing the hazard of lead-based paint.

• $75 million to construct a “security training” facility for State Department Security officers when they can be trained at existing facilities of other agencies.

• $110 million to the Farm Service Agency to upgrade computer systems.

• $200 million in funding for the lease of alternative energy vehicles for use on military installations.

The Expert answers:

Paid volunteers?

Take out 6.9 billion and add 13 billion. None of it stimulus. We truly live in an Idiocracy.

Daniel asks…

Do you agree that our elected Republicans are right on wasteful list of spending?

Your Question
Do you agree w/ the house Republicans-List of wasteful provisions…?
On Monday, House Republican leaders put out a list of what they call wasteful provisions in the Senate version of the nearly _$900 billion_ stimulus bill that is being debated:

• $2 billion earmark to re-start FutureGen, a near-zero emissions coal power plant in Illinois that the Department of Energy defunded last year because it said the project was inefficient.

• A $246 million tax break for Hollywood movie producers to buy motion picture film.

• $650 million for the digital television converter box coupon program.

• $88 million for the Coast Guard to design a new polar icebreaker (arctic ship) (global warming equipment?)

• $448 million for constructing the Department of Homeland
Security headquarters.

• $248 million for furniture at the new Homeland Security headquarters.

• $600 million to buy hybrid vehicles for federal employees.

• $400 million for the Centers for Disease Control to screen and prevent STD’s.

• $1.4 billion for rural waste disposal programs.

• $125 million for the Washington sewer system.

• $150 million for Smithsonian museum facilities.

• $1 billion for the 2010 Census, which has a projected cost overrun of $3 billion.

• $75 million for “smoking cessation activities.” (what’s that?)

• $200 million for public computer centers at community colleges.

• $75 million for salaries of employees at the FBI.

• $25 million for tribal alcohol and substance abuse reduction. (I thought they were exempt from the Fed. government)

+500 million for flood reduction projects on the Mississippi River.

• $10 million to inspect canals in urban areas.

• $6 billion to turn federal buildings into “green” buildings.

• $500 million for state and local fire stations.

• $650 million for wildland fire management on forest service lands.

• $1.2 billion for “youth activities,” including youth summer job
programs. (Obama’s youth?)

• $88 million for renovating the headquarters of the Public Health Service.

• $412 million for CDC buildings and property.

• $500 million for building and repairing National Institutes of Health
facilities in Bethesda, Maryland.

• $160 million for “paid volunteers” at the Corporation for
National and Community Service. (paid volunteers?)

• $5.5 million for “energy efficiency initiatives” at the
Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration.

• $850 million for Amtrak, a business that’s been losing money for the past 20 years. ( I think Amtrak should be revamped)

• $100 million for reducing the hazard of lead-based paint.

• $75 million to construct a “security training” facility for State
Department Security officers when they can be trained at existing facilities of other agencies.

• $110 million to the Farm Service Agency to upgrade computer systems.

• $200 million in funding for the lease of alternative energy vehicles for
use on military installations. (but O wants to cut our nukes by 80 percent?)

*If you were voting to spend _our_ money, is this how you would be doing it under the guise of “stimulus”?*

*Kentucky wisdom: “If it smells like a pig, and squeals like a pig, and
eats any slop that you serve it, then it is certainly a politician that is
pushing pork into what they would argue should be a legitimate bill.*

*Note: House Republicians have identified the above as wasteful.

What do you think?***

The Expert answers:

The thing with these earmarks is that they will temporarily help the economy but will hurt it more in the future. Just like the housing bubble that was bound to burst, all these ‘green jobs’ will go away because people will not buy ‘green cars’ because the technology is not good yet and they are much more dangerous to drive. As for these contract jobs, they will employ people for awhile, but when the contracts are over, the jobs are over. Amtrak is just stupid, if a business is meant to fail, propping them up is only delaying the inevitable. I say put the money back in the peoples pockets, we know how to fix the economy, not the Govt. The difference in Bush and Obama is even though they are both big spenders, Bush wanted to give the money back to the people, Obama wants to use OUR money to control US. Haven’t the Dems in Washington figured out what most of America knows, if you create a false ‘bubble’ then it will burst and it will hurt EVERYONE. If they would stop trying to ‘help’ everyone live the American dream and step back and give us the lea-way to do so, we will prosper again. Just like the housing market is already recovering, we needed to stop building new homes until the demand caught up with the supply(just like it’s doing) and everything will go back to normal

Steven asks…

Is this list Stimulus or Pork? Its all in the bill… what do you think?

• $2 billion earmark to re-start FutureGen, a near-zero emissions coal power plant in Illinois that the Department of Energy defunded last year because it said the project was inefficient.
• A $246 million tax break for Hollywood movie producers to buy motion picture film.
• $650 million for the digital television converter box coupon program.
• $88 million for the Coast Guard to design a new polar icebreaker (arctic ship).
• $448 million for constructing the Department of Homeland Security headquarters.
• $248 million for furniture at the new Homeland Security headquarters.
• $600 million to buy hybrid vehicles for federal employees.
• $400 million for the Centers for Disease Control to screen and prevent STD’s.
• $1.4 billion for rural waste disposal programs.
• $125 million for the Washington sewer system.
• $150 million for Smithsonian museum facilities.
• $1 billion for the 2010 Census, which has a projected cost overrun of $3 billion.
• $75 million for “smoking cessation activities.”
• $200 million for public computer centers at community colleges.
• $75 million for salaries of employees at the FBI.
• $25 million for tribal alcohol and substance abuse reduction.
• $500 million for flood reduction projects on the Mississippi River.
• $10 million to inspect canals in urban areas.
• $6 billion to turn federal buildings into “green” buildings.
• $500 million for state and local fire stations.
• $650 million for wild land fire management on forest service lands.
• $1.2 billion for “youth activities,” including youth summer job programs.
• $88 million for renovating the headquarters of the Public Health Service.
• $412 million for CDC buildings and property.
• $500 million for building and repairing National Institutes of Health facilities in Bethesda, Maryland.
• $160 million for “paid volunteers” at the Corporation for National and Community Service.
• $5.5 million for “energy efficiency initiatives” at the Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration.
• $850 million for Amtrak.
• $100 million for reducing the hazard of lead-based paint.
• $75 million to construct a “security training” facility for State Department Security officers when they can be trained at existing facilities of other agencies.
• $110 million to the Farm Service Agency to upgrade computer systems.
• $200 million in funding for the lease of alternative energy vehicles for use on military installations

The amtrack is my personal favorite… think that would be there if Biden wasnt in the picture?

How about …
246 million tax break for Hollywood movie investors in big budget movie projects over an 11-year period…job creating?

The Expert answers:

About 98% pork and 2% stimulus. Of that 98% pork, most of those items promote the liberal socialist agenda. Yep, it’s one big fat turd.

Joseph asks…

So, Democrat senators think this is wasteful in the stimulus, do you agree? Paying FBI agents?

…. a little more money …

• $75 million to construct a “security training” facility for State Department Security officers when they can be trained at existing facilities of other agencies.
• $75 million for salaries of employees at the FBI.
• $248 million for furniture at the new Homeland Security headquarters.
• $500 million for state and local fire stations.
• $88 million for the Coast Guard to design a new polar icebreaker (arctic ship).
• $448 million for constructing the Department of Homeland Security headquarters.
• $650 million for wildland fire management on forest service lands.

• $2 billion earmark to re-start FutureGen, a near-zero emissions coal power plant in Illinois that the Department of Energy defunded last year because it said the project was inefficient.
• $650 million for the digital television converter box coupon program.
• $600 million to buy hybrid vehicles for federal employees.
• $400 million for the Centers for Disease Control to screen and prevent STD’s.
• $1.4 billion for rural waste disposal programs.
• $125 million for the Washington sewer system.
• $150 million for Smithsonian museum facilities.
• $1 billion for the 2010 Census, which has a projected cost overrun of $3 billion.
• $75 million for “smoking cessation activities.”
• $200 million for public computer centers at community colleges.
• $25 million for tribal alcohol and substance abuse reduction.

• $500 million for flood reduction projects on the Mississippi River.
• $10 million to inspect canals in urban areas.
• $6 billion to turn federal buildings into “green” buildings.

• $1.2 billion for “youth activities,” including youth summer job programs.
• $88 million for renovating the headquarters of the Public Health Service.
• $412 million for CDC buildings and property.
• A $246 million tax break for Hollywood movie producers to buy motion picture film.
• $500 million for building and repairing National Institutes of Health facilities in Bethesda, Maryland.
• $160 million for “paid volunteers” at the Corporation for National and Community Service.
• $5.5 million for “energy efficiency initiatives” at the Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration.
• $850 million for Amtrak.
• $100 million for reducing the hazard of lead-based paint.
• $110 million to the Farm Service Agency to upgrade computer systems.
• $200 million in funding for the lease of alternative energy vehicles for use on military installations.
see here.
http://edition.cnn.com/2009/POLITICS/02/02/gop.stimulus.worries/index.html
added:
The remark against the lead paint thing is incredibly DUMB!!! Are you a repub? “Just don’t use lead based paint?” “Let them eat cake?”
HAVE YOU EVER STOPPED TO THINK ABOUT ALL THE OLD buildings who are covered in lead based paint????
Or don’t inner city buildings factor ever in your life? You know, where mostly black people live?

and nobody thinks to check the link …

The Expert answers:

Some yes, some no, some make sense when you drill down to the actual allocation or program, some don’t.

The Coast Guard Ice breaker? Maybe wasteful as we already have some, or maybe not wasteful as the youngest is more than 30 years old, and the opening of ice in the Arctic means security risks and much more traffic up there.

Nancy asks…

Do you agree w/ the house Republicans-List of wasteful provisions…?

On Monday, House Republican leaders put out a list of what they call wasteful provisions in the Senate version of the nearly _$900 billion_ stimulus bill that is being debated:

• $2 billion earmark to re-start FutureGen, a near-zero emissions coal power plant in Illinois that the Department of Energy defunded last year because it said the project was inefficient.

• A $246 million tax break for Hollywood movie producers to buy motion picture film.

• $650 million for the digital television converter box coupon program.

• $88 million for the Coast Guard to design a new polar icebreaker (arctic ship) (global warming equipment?)

• $448 million for constructing the Department of Homeland
Security headquarters.

• $248 million for furniture at the new Homeland Security headquarters.

• $600 million to buy hybrid vehicles for federal employees.

• $400 million for the Centers for Disease Control to screen and prevent STD’s.

• $1.4 billion for rural waste disposal programs.

• $125 million for the Washington sewer system.

• $150 million for Smithsonian museum facilities.

• $1 billion for the 2010 Census, which has a projected cost overrun of $3 billion.

• $75 million for “smoking cessation activities.” (what’s that?)

• $200 million for public computer centers at community colleges.

• $75 million for salaries of employees at the FBI.

• $25 million for tribal alcohol and substance abuse reduction. (I thought they were exempt from the Fed. government)

+500 million for flood reduction projects on the Mississippi River.

• $10 million to inspect canals in urban areas.

• $6 billion to turn federal buildings into “green” buildings.

• $500 million for state and local fire stations.

• $650 million for wildland fire management on forest service lands.

• $1.2 billion for “youth activities,” including youth summer job
programs. (Obama’s youth?)

• $88 million for renovating the headquarters of the Public Health Service.

• $412 million for CDC buildings and property.

• $500 million for building and repairing National Institutes of Health
facilities in Bethesda, Maryland.

• $160 million for “paid volunteers” at the Corporation for
National and Community Service. (paid volunteers?)

• $5.5 million for “energy efficiency initiatives” at the
Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration.

• $850 million for Amtrak, a business that’s been losing money for the past 20 years. ( I think Amtrak should be revamped)

• $100 million for reducing the hazard of lead-based paint.

• $75 million to construct a “security training” facility for State
Department Security officers when they can be trained at existing facilities of other agencies.

• $110 million to the Farm Service Agency to upgrade computer systems.

• $200 million in funding for the lease of alternative energy vehicles for
use on military installations. (but O wants to cut our nukes by 80 percent?)

*If you were voting to spend _our_ money, is this how you would be doing it under the guise of “stimulus”?*

*Kentucky wisdom: “If it smells like a pig, and squeals like a pig, and
eats any slop that you serve it, then it is certainly a politician that is
pushing pork into what they would argue should be a legitimate bill.*

*Note: House Republicians have identified the above as wasteful.

What do you think?***

The Expert answers:

There’s a few things in there that I could go along with such as the rural waste disposal development and maybe the CDC stuff but the rest no. Maybe flood reduction on the Mississippi excepting Louisiana because Nagin had that money already and blew it on ball parks and stuff.

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Your Questions About Green Living

Green Living Q & A 0 Comment

Richard asks…

Where can I find cool eco-friendly products?

My class is making an eco basket for a silent auction and I was looking for things to put in it.

I need some products that’ll interest a younger crowd.
It’s for a good cause so please help!

The Expert answers:

Hi there… Check out this site… (I’m not sure where you’re located – if you add the country province or state I could be of more help)

http://www.ecomall.com/

I live in Ontario, Canada and go to “The Big Carrot”, “Ten Thousand Villages” and “Grassroots” to shop for my son…

Check out their sites:

http://www.thebigcarrot.ca/

http://www.tenthousandvillages.ca/

http://www.grassrootsstore.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATS&Category=38&sm=sub11

They have toys (grassroots and ten thousand villages), organic gummi bears (@ the big carrot – which my son loves) Don’t forget Organic foods are also healthy for the environment since no pesticides are used… And Grassroots is fair trade…

* What you can also do is pick up some recycled paper pads (they have them at Zellers, Walmart etc…) and some Eco/Enviro friendly crayons, perhaps a book about the environment, maybe an earth friendly book mark… (Go to my 360 page link on my profile and check out my blog for good kids book titles about the environment – I listed isbn numbers for the books too so they’re easy to find in the bookstores)

* Also instead of a basket why don’t you use an enviro bag?That way it can be used (easter baskets don’t really get used and end up in the dump – many are trashed after easter – causing more unused things to pile up at the landfill (which of course is bad for the environment)…. :~(

* Perhaps you can get one of the small stainless steel water bottles (they have one’s with great designs for kids) and get various flavors of organic drinks, bars, cookies etc for the basket…

Or

* bathroom fun stuff from “Kiss My Face” – They have fun shaped soaps, shampoos etc that are paraben, sls free, animal testing free, and won’t harm the environment when it goes down the drain…

Http://kissmyface.com/kidsproductpages/kidspage.html

Hope this helps – maybe inspires some ideas for you ;~)

Nancy asks…

What are some eco-friendly products that you can find at your local grocery store in Germany?

The Expert answers:

Find out what is grown very near by.

Michael asks…

Any ideas to name a small cleaning service company that will use eco-friendly products?

The Expert answers:

Eco Clean.
With tag line ‘Your economical eco-friendly cleaning service’

Naturally Clean

E.C.O
Economical Cleaning Options
or
Eco-friendly Cleaning Option Services

Steven asks…

Is anyone looking for a good website to buy eco friendly products

I have been browsing through Total Eco Store http://www.totalecostore.com has anyone else checked it out for “green” products? They seem to have the largest selection and the best prices on the web.

The Expert answers:

Nope.

Robert asks…

Where can I find recycled, organic, and eco friendly products online?

I don’t want to buy them in bunches, just maybe one or two of each.
Thanks
-USC

The Expert answers:

Bath and body:
— www.terressentials.com

cleaning:
— seventhgeneration.com

clothing & accessories:
— coolnotcruel.com
— thegreenloop.com
— hempys.com
— indigenousdesigns.com
— simpleshoes.com
— organicclothes.com

craigslist.org
freecycle.org
ecobags.com

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Your Questions About Green Living

Green Living Q & A 0 Comment

Thomas asks…

What universities offer online courses in renewable energy or green related fileds?

I am interested in the renewable energy, green field, etc. And i want to know if there are some universities offering these kind of online courses.

The Expert answers:

All courses and degrees dealing with “renewable energy” or “green field” without prerequisite degrees in Science or Engineering are bullbleep.

Students need a background in Science or Engineering (preferably Engineering) before they can understand energy issues. Otherwise, graduates of these phony courses just become loud and ignorant shrieking nuisances.

Donna asks…

What are some Renewable Energy questions that would be fun and informative for adults?

I’m putting together a Quiz for adults on renewable energy facts. I’m hoping to get some interesting facts out of this.

The Expert answers:

We should educate adults about the major benefits of renewable energy. Like Renewable energy never runs out. Other sources of energy are finite and will someday be depleted. These are the great source of energy and will help us in the emergency survival.

Mandy asks…

Why is important for business to use renewable energy?

Why is important for ‘business’ to use renewable energy? What are the advantages and disadvantages? Do you know a company that uses renewable energy and has reduced its carbon footprint? And one that doesn’t and is considerably contributing to global warming etc

The Expert answers:

It’s important because fossil fuels are a finite resource. Global oil production is beginning to decline as old oil fields reach their peak, (the Gwhar and Cantrell giant oil fields for example,) and their production curves begin the inevitable slide downwards. Although new oil fields are being discovered, they are not very large, and for every new barrel of oil found, eight are being used at the same time.

A report from the UK Energy Research Centre published in August said that there was a ‘significant risk’ that the peak of conventional oil production would happen before 2020, and that means we will soon be staring down the barrel of the ultimate oil crisis.

Some governments and corporations are waking up to this and beginning to develop alternatives to keep the worlds transport systems moving when cheap oil runs out, such as more energy efficient – or electric cars, bio fuels (which put the world’s food supply under pressure,) and hydrogen (which is too dangerous for public use at present,) but none of these is likely to make up the shortfall in time.

Many point to the tar sands and oil shales and the trillions of barrels of oil that are locked up in them, but even if investment in them poured in and everything went well:

‘oil sands might produce 6 million barrels of oil per day in 20 years’ time, but by then we’ll need to add at least 10 times that much capacity – without allowing for any growth in demand. It’s very hard to see non-conventional (oil sources) riding to the rescue.’ (Steven Sorrel, lead author of the UKERC report.)

There is also the problem that extracting non conventional oil supplies is very environmentally destructive, and if they were fully exploited, would hugely increase CO2 emissions, before they were even burned as fuel.

We must also remember that many of the rare earth metals that are needed to develop fuel efficient technologies are only found in China, and they have decided to limit or even ban the export of these metals, leaving all the other countries that wish to expand their use of such technologies at a disadvantage.

So the only businesses that can secure energy supplies are those that invest in renewable energies now, before the oil price rises, (due to demand outstripping supply,) and before the costs of making such renewables rises too as a result of resource depletion and the constrained supply of raw materials.

Nancy asks…

How in demand will renewable energy jobs be in the near future?

I’m really worried about the economy and looking for a quick certification so I can have some sort of qualification in case it totally goes under. I found a 14 credit hour renewable energy certification at a community college. Do you think this will do any good for finding jobs?

The Expert answers:

Very high demand for scientists and engineers and designers..

Sharon asks…

What is the career called that deals with renewable energy?

What is the career called that deals with renewable energy, and teaches students how to design things like, solar panels and wind powered generators. What universities of colleges offer the course? Also can someone provide a link to the college or university page that deals with their renewable energy course.
Does anyone know about the course in Uvic? They have someone guy in their commercial holding a wind powered generator model.

The Expert answers:

Many many careers can deal with renewable energy..

Try civil, mechanical, electrical or chemical engineering.

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Lizzie asks…

Why is it that Europe moves forward while America seems to be regresing?

European human rights movement is getting stronger, gay marraige, freedom of speech, huge investment in infastructure, freedom of movement, higher levels of education, high focus on environmental issues.
What do you think?

The Expert answers:

I know it sounds good, but I’m still proud to live in the America.

Mandy asks…

Over the last 3 decades the environmental lobby has never had massive support, so why?

Are we in this energy crisis because of them? I mean environmental “issues” never ranked in the top 5 of importance to the American voter, and yet they have managed to insure no drilling for American oil in ANWR or off the coasts of our nation (even though other countries will), they’ve managed to insure no new oil refineries were built in 30 years, and that no new nuclear power plants were created. How did the environmental lobby succeed to wreck America without voter support?

The Expert answers:

There is no money in environmentalism. But now, they are trying to block the only real chance we have to avoid a depression (drilling in anwar and off florida coast).
I am a republican, but this is both parties faults.

John asks…

liberals, why aren’t you concerned about population growth of Mexicans in America?

You seem to be very environmentally concerned about over population, but you are mum on obvious
practice of illegal Mexicans coming to the U.S. and having babies. Their birth rate is alarming.
And you say nothing. Is it because you are only concerned about environmental issues when it
doesn’t insult a minority, or an illegal alien?
anna are you concerned about the world’s population are NOT? You prove my point. You are afraid to criticize what is an obvious problem according to liberals, over population, when it comes to illegal Mexicans. Just how spineless are you?

The Expert answers:

Well what do you expect liberals to do? You can’t prevent that amount of people from crossing the border. Not only that, but who cares and their birth rate, Mexicans aren’t infected or dangerous why should we be alarmed. So their stealing our jobs and not paying taxes, but we’d pay taxes and be hired before any Mexican regardless. Preventing enviornmental damage is important because there is no known way to reverse some of the damage being done. Certain enviornmental issues are more of a priority than the issue of illegal immigrants.

William asks…

i REALLY need help!!?

so i need to know this for a final in world studies:

Analyze the connection between economic problems/prosperity environmental issues in Latin America.

Thank you!!!
wow… no need 2 be mean… just asking for help!

The Expert answers:

I know nothing about the topic but it seems obvious..

If they’re in an economic crisis, they have no money to support the enviornment.

Helen asks…

What type of government would you describe this as?

Well ive been playing this game called nations, in which over time you answer political questions, and the results will change your country. And ive been playing for a bit now, so I wondering what type of government is this?

->Detail on the country, they dramatize it a bit.

The Nation of Better America is ruled by President Davila. Purity of bloodline is the primary deciding factor in the replacement of rulers in Better America. Technology is at the forefront of scientific research and the nation flourishes with superior communication and means of production. Government sponsored programs for health care allow any individual who owns land to receive care.

Life in Better America is very safe due to the right of the police to randomly search private property. This country sports an impressive military force which operates fully on testosterone-driven body builders which are used to intimidate any adversary. Religious tolerance is available to all those who can afford to buy it. All children in Better America ages five to thirteen are eligible for free placement testing to determine their proper schooling placement.

Most environmental issues in Better America are resolved with a simple coin toss which is then translated by an official coin toss interpreter. Privatization of corporations and free market are new concepts developing in this country, and freedom of speech has recently been allotted to the citizenship of Better America, but consequences for what citizens freely say are still enforced.

The Expert answers:

Sounds like something a collaboration between Robert A. Heinlein and Philip K. Dick would come up with.

I’d like to read it!

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Donald asks…

Do you believe our culture will undergo a voluntary transformation to a sane and sustainable way of living?

By culture I mean the dominant culture of mass media, cities, war, and violence.

If yes, why?
If no, what can we do? How does this realization change our tactics?

The Expert answers:

Few cultural changes happen voluntarily or peacefully but one can only hope we learn from history
some would say capitalism has sustained us why would it not continue to do so…well I would say because it is too reactionary and not sufficiently focused on long term social needs that may not be profitable such as health care, infrastructure or other isolated but important needs. Socialism has never really had a chance and tho it is being hybridized rather well with capitalism in europe we still see many class inequities

George asks…

Is there any sustainable energy methods I can harness while living in an apartment complex?

Or does anyone know a good website about harnessing energy for personal use?

I was thinking about maybe a small windmill or solar panels…But I’m not sure how it would work when being connected to other units. Thank you!

The Expert answers:

There were a lot of good answers given, especially regarding the film for the windows and the thermostat issues. Another suggestion I would like to add is one that I’ve done.

We bought solar outdoor lights and used them inside. We had the solar panel in the window and the sun charged it great, the lights were positioned around the room, and used for light at night. Buy rechargeable LED lanterns and use them in different rooms (my kids have these in their rooms, as oil lanterns are too dangerous for youngsters).

You can make a solar cooker if you have good sun exposure from a balcony or patio at your apartment. We have a variety of ways to cook (grill, propane grill, propane camp stove). I also re-charge batteries while driving in the car, plus charge the laptop when necessary. This I use for the kids to watch DVDs, and we have recently begun watching movies and such on Hulu. This would save on electricity for TV and save satellite costs.

Daniel asks…

which is more ecologically sustainable: living in a highrse apartment in a big city, or living on forest? why?

The Expert answers:

By living in the country at the edge of a forrested area. I get to see the impact on wildlife first hand and also get to watch and learn the wildlifes’ behavior, and see also how the city dwellers are so miss informed about wildlife. I see Californian’s and other city dwellers who move to the country and think how they are going to make a differance in the wildlife by feeding them food that is not heathy for them and not allowing hunting to keep the population of wildlife in check and allowing disease to run rappant in the wildlife.
By living in the country I get to smell fresh air everyday and not hear sirens and people arguing. You will know more about wildlife by being where they are and watching them for yourself and understand how they can adapt to people, and you yourself not being a miss informed brainless believer of the media or uniformed politicians. So as I sit on my deck of my loghome watching the wildlife and learning by watching and not listening, I hope I cleared the clouds for you

Lisa asks…

Sustainable Living/Environmental Experiment?

I need to come up with a environmental/sustainable living experiment for a class I am in. I only have a few weeks to do the experiment and then I just need to write a paper about it, but I am having trouble coming up with a project to do…..

Some people in my class are going to be vegetarians for a few weeks, one student is going to try and not use shampoo for a couple weeks!. The experiments dont have to be too extreme like these, some students are just going to make an effort to smile more and see what types of responses they get from others.

I want to come up with a unique experiment but I am drawing a blank….I would love any ideas!

Thanks so much!
Thanks so much for your ideas…the only thing is I am limited with what I can do because I am living in a dorm on a college campus!!

The Expert answers:

Not sure how much control you would have over your electricity bill (and if not, become an activist and get access), but if you can get a previous bill you could:

1. Change out all light bulbs for low energy ones;
2. Ensure your computer is off when you are not using it;
3. Don’t turn on the TV for a few weeks;
4. Go through the house and turn off everything that draws ‘phantom energy’ (chargers that aren’t charging anything, coffee makers with clocks, Sound video components in standby mode – you TV will be off etc.);
5. Wash dishes by hand, or ensure a dishwasher is full before running it (if you own one);
6. Air dry as much laundry as possible;
7. And turn off anything else with pretty lights you are not using (no straigting hair or haridryers either!).

Do that for two weeks, and either wait for your bill or contact the utility company directly to find out usage (if you can go outside and read the meter yourself before you start and when you are done you can even do the math yourself).

Once all that is said and done, you will have a profile of your energy use. Some changes can be permanent, others you can budget yourself for (such as TV – I am addicted to a few shows myself!) and make yourself sustainable for the long term.

There are some other things you can do too to minimize energy use, but I’m getting a pinky cramp writting…. Good luck and would love to see your results!

Betty asks…

natural/organic/sustainable living?

anyone know any catalogs or companies that sell organic or sustainable products? gaiam, etc…

The Expert answers:

Territorial Seeds ~ they will send you a catalog.

Also, there are some on ebay… Best Wishes!

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Ruth asks…

Why does every energy solution always make more money for the oil corporations?

I vote for Obama’s energy policy where he will invest $150B into developing ALL FORMS of alternative energy.

This will create jobs here in America, eliminate oil dependency, stop the trade imbalance, stop pollution in the air and in our drinking water.

Of course the “Conservatives” will be against this since this is a conservative policy and the “conservatives” are actually anti-conservatives.

The Expert answers:

McCain flip-flops whenever it becomes politically expedient to change his mind. For such an environmentalist and maverick in he’s party he’s really turned out to be a hypocrite and a coward. It’s not going to have huge longterm effects except on the environment. Even if the US drilled all over the country we’d only have 2-3% of the needed national supply.

McCain needs to stop pretending to be an environmentalist. McCain has a 0 rating while Obama has a 96 from The Conservation Society. If he was a such an environmentalist he wouldn’t support offshore drilling and the gas tax holiday which would increase carbon emissions.

Drilling will only cause prices to go down about a nickel over the next decade at the best. It’s not going to have huge longterm effects except on he environment. Even if the US drilled all over the country we’d only have 2-3% of the needed national supply. We can’t depend on oil. We have to find alternative sources of energy.

Mark asks…

what kind of job deals with alternative sources of energy? its for a physics paper…?

i have a physics paper to write about alternative sources of energy, and one section is to describe a career that one can have in the field (of alternative sources of energy)…
does anyone have any ideas?

and i also need a formula that has to do with the topic and i have to explain the physics involved in alternative sources of energy (what it is, how it works, etc etc)…

so if ANYONE has ANY information, it would be much appreciated!

thanksssssss<3

The Expert answers:

There are many careers that are necessary to the production of alternative sources of energy. Of course there are the engineers who build windmills, solar cells, and other physical structures. There are physicists, chemists, and other scientists that tell the engineers what to do and how to build something. There are politicians who mandate the use of alternative energy and provide funding for research. Then there are a few unusual ones, like an agronomist (someone who studies crops and plants). They study how to get the highest yield per acre and what crops are best for the given climate and soil conditions. You also have the farmers that produce the organic products necessary for the production of ethanol, biodiesel, and other organic renewables.

David asks…

Alternative energy vs. drilling for more oil?

Is this a true statement?

If the US does more domestic oil drilling, the oil companies get richer.
If the US develops alternative energy (wind, solar, etc), this would create a whole new industry and create more new jobs.

The Expert answers:

Very true.

Oil companies and people who make a living on oil future market don’t want alternative energy become popular. There is no wind futures and solar futures to trade.

Mandy asks…

What should I do to start my career in the solar and alternative energy field?

I have a Bachelors in Material Science and Engineering. No particular solar experience. I’ve been looking to get a masters at Univ. of Texas or another Texas University, but I’m not sure which degree would best help me get a job, if at all. What should be my next steps, I’ve been researching for a few days.
How would I go about getting a entry job in the solar industry, what type should i look for?

The Expert answers:

Check out this company I represent. I think it may suit you well.
Www.powur.com/therisingsun
If you have any questions feel free to call me anytime.
Joshua
602 418 2823

James asks…

Why arte the conservatives afraid to create new jobs and improve the economy?

They want to “drill baby drill”, yet ignore the fact the Alternative Energy initiatives will create new jobs and entrepreneurial opportunities and improve the economy.

I never knew that repblicans advocate such things as borrowing (Bail outs and the economy) without having a plan to improve revenue streams, as well as are willing to rapidly consume a resource with no regard for what happens in 10 years afterwwards

The Expert answers:

The conservatives have been creating new jobs – in China.
RED CHINA…
By outsourcing middle-class jobs, they feel they are saving on labor costs and don’t give a second thought about how this affects their own country.

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David asks…

CUTE eco-friendly clothing….?

Does anyone know where I can find really cute, trendy eco friendly clothes? I’m an ex fashionista (think Coach, GUESS, Chanel) who wants to do her part in making this world a better environment. Thanks

The Expert answers:

Lucky Brand Jeans has a really nice selection of eco-friendly clothing.

Nancy asks…

What are some eco friendly brands of clothing?

I am looking for brands of clothing that are some of the following:
– Organic
– Made with Solar power
– Made with Wind power
– Carbon neutral manufacturing

The Expert answers:

Try 100% cotten clothing regardless of brand.

Maria asks…

Ladies Have you bought any of the Eco-friendly clothing they have at Sam’s Club and Costco?

Okay I know typically these two places are not places you go to look for clothes but they have some cute outfits you should get that are good for the Earth.

The Expert answers:

I never went there before. I havent even heard of it
but i never wear animal skin

William asks…

Why are eco-friendly clothing soo expensive?

is it worth it?

The Expert answers:

Because they are made of organic, which is more expensive (and rarer) and grow and make clothing into.

George asks…

Do you buy eco-friendly clothing?

You know it’s pretty cheap and they sell some Organic T-shirts and stuff at places like Wal-mart, Jc penny, Nordstroms, or Mervyns, Kohls, just ask about organic cotton T-shirts and clothing and they should know where it is. It’s also very comfortable.
Kye H the difference is that organic cotton does not have any pesticides or fertilizer that can end up at the beach and ruining farmland. I think that is pretty Important or you can try drinking some of that water and see what it does it to you.

The Expert answers:

No way! Cotton is organic, what’s wrong with them?

What is the difference in cotton and organic cotton? Cotton is cotton and it comes from a plant

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Sandy asks…

Since biomass is a renewable energy resource, there is a suggestion that the world switch to biomass as its?

main energy source. What’s an example of problems that can arise from this switch ?
From a society point of view
From an energy availability point of view
From an ecological point of view

The Expert answers:

Several problems can arise such as;
If the whole world was to switch to biomass there would be no natural environment as we know it because we would consume more than the world could produce and that would not be socially acceptable. Poor resource management such as where more biomass is used then can be grown could lead to our destruction (Easter island)
Ecologically speaking it could destroy an ecosystem and possibly cause a chain reaction of collapsing ecosystem. With advances in biogas production and using algea to produce oils there is a possibility that our energy needs could be met with large scale biomass farming and biogass collection/processing but only with good planning by scientists.

Sharon asks…

what would the world be like if we continue use fossil fuels and not renewable energy?

The Expert answers:

There is a growing concern regarding the collaboration between fossil fuels and environmental pollution. Debates regarding this contamination have become commonplace in today’s effort to sustain the earth’s health. Fossil fuels are not considered a renewable energy source and aside from the environmental impact, the cost of retrieving and converting them is beginning to demand notice. Seemingly this issue has many different angles that need to be addressed in order to ensure future generations a sustainable living

What is Renewable Energy? Renewable energy is that source of energy that does not diminish and gets their replenishment of energies from other natural sources like wind, sun, flowing water, geothermal flows of heat and biological processes.

With the depletion in resources of fossil fuel there seems to be a growing demand for solutions that can generate the same output but will not die out at the same time. Using energy resources also is environmentally friendly as we are only taking what nature has to offer, and generating energy from it.

Almost 18 % of energy consumption globally was from energy sources in the year 2006. The Geysers in United States, California is one of the world’s largest geothermal installations. The leader in Ethanol fuel is Brazil, this fuel drawn out of sugarcane, is used to drive vehicles. The highest ownership in household solar is Kenya, where most of the households draw their energy from solar power stations.

With so much happening globally in terms of renewable resources, several countries now have passed legislations that will help increase its use. This has seen a trend in increase in market demand for newer technologies in the energy resource industry.
Therefiore, converting fossil fuels may also result in the accumulation of solid waste. This type of accumulation has a devastating impact on the environment.

Maria asks…

How we can solve energy crisis in World in long run?

a)By using more & more renewable energy.
b)By controling our consumption of fuel.
b)Do not bother now.

The Expert answers:

For commuting use Bicycle, For Cooking and Lighting Use Solar Energy. If you are forced to Use Motor Transport then UsePublic Transport system. If not atleast join a car pool.

Mark asks…

will the western world become energy efficient ?

in the next 40 years will the wetern world be able to run on renewable energy ??? the germans and the japaneese have made a good progress but what about the others ??? when will they start building green cities like the germans ??

The Expert answers:

It is definitely possible however if governments don’t invest in it it is unlikely to happen.

Here is the proof

This is a report by scientists which shows it is possible to generate all our energy from renewable sources by 2020 if we wanted to.

Http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=a-path-to-sustainable-energy-by-2030

Also “blue-green” algae can produce electricity or Diesel simply from air, water and sunlight. Although not fully developed yet they provide great opurtunities.

Http://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/article477049.ece

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyanobacteria#Biotechnology_and_applications

Seriously look at these links if we really wanted to we could produce plenty of energy.

Richard asks…

Why aren’t we on 99% clean renewable energies and leading the world and setting an example?

We have money to kill but not to lead and help.
Except for the money for the endless wars, right?

The Expert answers:

Problem is with people like you who like to cry and whine about renewable energy this and that but are not even directly associated in the discoveries of those new green technologies you want everyone else to get involved with. You mentioned in one answer that you are an econ graduate. Why economics and not Environmental Studies? Because you too are just out to make money for yourself so you can enjoy your life exactly like the politicians and economists and bankers and business that you say exploit the poor. And it’s much easier to pin the blame on someone else and make them responsible for something you could have easily done something about you try isn’t it? You drive a car, you use electricity, you even eat processed factory made foods. All use non green renewable energy. Where is your indignation against the non environmentally friendly resources that you use? Ah, there lies the hypocrisy doesn’t it?

And please stop saying “we” when you talk about the US because you are not American and you don’t live here. You said so yourself. Or are you a liar too?

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