Active solar
A system using mechanical devices such as pumps, fans etc., that transfers collected heat to the storage medium and/or the end-use.
Leave a Comment December 16, 2009
Microturbines
Small rotary engines (usually fueled by natural gas) that provide on-site electricity generation.
Leave a Comment December 10, 2009
Runoff
The waste water that flows from our gardens, lawns, driveways, and streets into our sewer systems carries various pollutants, including fertilizers and pesticides from our yards that eventually finds its way into our rivers and oceans.
Leave a Comment December 6, 2009
Electrosmog
The invisible electromagnetic radiation resulting from the use of both wireless technology and mains electricity.
The most common sources of wireless electrosmog are:
- Cordless phones
- Cordless baby alarms
- Mobile/cellular phone masts/towers/transmitters
- Mobile/cellular phones
Leave a Comment December 4, 2009
Greywater
Wastewater generated from domestic activities such as dish washing, laundry and bathing. Greywater comprises 50-80% of residential wastewater generated from all of the house’s sanitation equipment except for the toilets.
Leave a Comment December 3, 2009
Design for the Environment (DfE)
A concept or philosophy applied to the design process that advocates the reduction of environmental and human health impacts through materials selection and design strategies.
Leave a Comment November 30, 2009
BRI- Building Related Illness
Illnesses caused by toxic off-gassing from building materials or molds, bacteria, etc. that can accumulate in HVAC systems and carpeting.
Leave a Comment November 25, 2009
Polylactic Acid (PLA)
A biodegradable, thermoplastic derived from renewable resources, such as corn starch or sugarcanes.
PLA, sometimes referred to as ‘corn plastic’ is used to make biodegradable ‘plastic’ cups and other items.
Leave a Comment November 22, 2009
Composting
The purposeful biodegradation of organic matter, such as yard and food waste.
Leave a Comment November 21, 2009
