Environment Blogger

Archive for November, 2010

Bio Ethanol Burners are the most recent green option to the conventional burner. Can you explain that therefore? There is a lot associated with answer to which query but first learn about the problem. So if you wish to learn more relating to this subject matter, I’ve just the right quantity of information that you might need. This could definitely save you the hassle of trying to find it elsewhere. And by the moment a person finishes scanning this, you’d be educated on the different advantages as well as downsides of utilizing Ethanol Biofuel. So search in!

There’s a growing issue regarding the increasing cost of petroleum. Accumulate the serious international plan issues that are mainly associated with the reliance of the country to international essential oil supplies. This is the reason for the actual sudden increase increased exposure of utilizing bio energy in the usa, along with the entire world. Nevertheless, using crops to produce solution fuel instead of the traditional products have alarmingly raised the buying price of meals. Corn oil is the rendering from the massive effort to make biography fuel manufacturing better.

Within the whole world, biofuels ethanol is one of the most widely used kinds of liquid natural fuel due to the cleanliness and organic properties. In the usa on it’s own, ethanol is mainly obtained from hammer toe. Hammer toe is one of grown type of crop in the united states, with a whopping 332 million measurement lots developed annually. Back in the 1980’s, the united states was only able to produce 175 million gallons of ethanol essential oil. However around 2007, the number has increased through that to a massive six, 500 million gallons.

Despite the fact that ethanol is one of the best greener option with regards to energy alternatives, there’s also a downside to this particular breakthrough.

Listed here are the 3 issues concerning the use of ethanol:

1. Price of fuel required to create ethanol – generating ethanol from corn is driven by energy. As well as the amount of fuel required to process the hammer toe in to ethanol is actually large as the amount of hammer toe that’s processed rises.

2. Destruction associated with Habitat – lands which are employed to end up being organic habitat with regard to creatures are now being changed by cornfields due to the higher ethanol demand.

3. Food cost increase : this crop is also the main source of feeds with regard to poultry along with other beef sources. Because there is an imbalance within the proportion associated with corn getting used for ethanol as well as hammer toe getting used for feeds, presently there would be a increase in the price of hammer toe which may additionally result to meals cost hike.

Nevertheless, following all of these troubles are mentioned, there is actually some sort of means to fix this particular. To resolve this issue, we have to help to make ethanol production better. Which means reducing the ratio of the needed quantity of hammer toe to create ethanol. Ethanol manufacturing has by – products, these are corn gluten meal, gluten feed and corn oil. There is a brand new technologies that may extract corn essential oil from it and transform it in to bio – energy.

Our most trend-conscieous generation is now taking an active roll in the “Green Movement”. And with Christmas just around the corner here are some great places to find Green Gifts young adults will love.

#5. A hit from Japan, Taterpots have finally arrived in the US! These cute potato-shaped planters come with a peat puck and packet of either basil, mint, or oregano seeds. From the same company who brought us the Eggling, these little guys have adorable legs to dangle from your windowsill and a cheery disposition to brighten your kitchen.
http://www.modcloth.com/store/ModCloth/Apartment/Taterpots

#4. Starting with the most mod of designs, Wolly Pocket has been sweeping our nation with its sleek design and versatility. This gift works for all ages and you can buy the right pocket to fit your budget.
http://cart.woollypocket.com/Wally-One

#3. Take advantage of this heart melting boot! The welcoming design to this little rain boot is perfect for the College student and all teenagers alike. Not only does it bring a splash of color to each window seal, but it also provides row mint, strawberry, basil or camomile.
http://www.fredflare.com/customer/product.php?productid=3766&cat=103

#2. This paradox planter is trendy and environment friendly. Although it comes with a serious price tag, it is a reusable gift for many years to come.
 http://www.anthropologie.com/anthro/catalog/productdetail.jsp?subCategoryId=HOME-GARDEN-POTS&id=974386&catId=HOME-GARDEN&pushId=HOME-GARDEN&popId=HOME&sortProperties=&navCount=40&navAction=top&fromCategoryPage=true&selectedProductSize=&selectedProductSize1=&color=014&colorName=NEUTRAL%20MOTIF&isSubcategory=true&isProduct=true&isBigImage=&templateType=

#1. If you like versatile gifts for all ages, take advantage of this truly self-replenishing gift of life. Great for the families that want to save a little cash in the new year, and heartwarming intention, this is the most highly rated GREEN GIFT for 2010.
http://survivalistseeds.com/

Boric acid is a chemical substance generally known as white powder that doesn’t burn and possesses low toxicity.  It’s used as antiseptic, fungicide, insecticide, and is likewise an ingredient in doing borosilicate glass.  It has extensive industrial application that there is no means of eliminating this chemical and, in fact, it is found in many household products.  Nevertheless it includes some considerable hazards even though it’s relatively safer than some other industrial chemicals.

Potential Health Hazards

Acidum boricum could be introduced inside the body by means of inhalation of the dust and this is the common route of exposure to it, taking into account the acid is commonly contained in powder form.  While skin contact can also be quite common, there’s minimal risk of toxicity by way of skin contact since the skin provides effective barrier from this chemical.  In the case of inhalation, moderate irritation may take place if the acid dust gets to levels of 10mg/m3.  Surprisingly, eye exposure won’t lead to irritation.  The truth is, boracic acid solutions are used in eyewash products.

Another potential danger takes place after consumption but since the substance has low toxicity, a person must have ingested huge amounts of the acidic substance to notice abdominal symptoms.  Nevertheless, cases of swallowing are because of careless and unwise usage.  Whatever the case of exposure, there isn’t any chance of getting cancer since the acid isn’t a carcinogen.

Things To Do In Case of Over-Exposure

Instances of substantial inhalation could result in throat and nasal irritation.  Get the person to an open space for fresh air. While eye contact isn’t usually expected, irrigate irritated eye using thoroughly clean water and get medical assistance if eye irritation persist for over half an hour.  In case of accidental ingestion, provide the exposed a few cups of water to drink up and after that get medical attention.  Massive consumption of boracic acid might cause renal failure.

Preventing Environmental Release

This chemical may cause harm to the natural environment, so correct disposal measures must be observed.  It dissolves in water, therefore it can easily seep into the soil and be absorbed by plants via the roots.  Introduction of an excessive amount of acid in the soil changes soil pH and ionic constituent and this causes harm to the plants and trees within the affected area.  If the acidic powder gets on the ground surface, dig out the contaminated soil and throw away the contents in safe storage containers.

General Boric Acid Safety

Considering that the substance isn’t a risk to safety, hardly any special safety measures are needed during handling and storage.  An individual may use the normal precautionary procedures for usual household chemical compounds like keeping it within safe and dry areas.

If ever you are going to use the acidum boricum powder at home, keep your pets from using specific spots where you dusted or sprayed the chemical substance.

Normally in industrial facilities, there’s no need to wear goggles and facial masks unless air concentration of powder goes beyond acceptable or tolerable levels.

Acidum boricum and boracic acid are two terms being used in this particular article and are in reality synonyms of boric acid.

It’s insufferable for me to read or hear anymore about the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico without being overwhelmed by sadness.

New reports indicate that the spillage has been grossly underreported by BP and the media. A scientist analyzing the video taken at the spewing well told CNN last night that the volume is at least 70,000-100,000 barrels per day — not the 5,000 barrels BP has reported.

Don’t Call This a “Spill”

Folks, this isn’t a “leak” or “spill.” It’s an subaqueous geyser pumping oil into the Gulf under enormous pressure. BP’s attempts to contain it have failed, and they have been lying about the true volume of oil for over a month to protect themselves from liability and bad press.

Over two million gallons of toxic oil have poured into the Gulf waters, a flow rate that would create an oil plume the size of the Exxon-Valdez spill every four days. The amount of oil already spilled is more than four times that of the Exxon spill (250,000 gallons).

The Gulf oil slick is already more than 130 miles long and 70 miles wide — about the size of Puerto Rico. Hundreds of species of wildlife are threatened, including birds and dolphins; plus the fish, shrimp, oysters and crabs that make the Gulf Coast one of the richest sources of seafood in the US.

The fish population, coastal wetlands and entire ecosystem of the Gulf will almost surely be severly damaged, if not completely destroyed. And if this massive oil slick makes its way into the Gulf Stream, it could be carried up the entire East Coast and around the world, decimating (or at least seriously poisoning) ocean wildlife globally.

The powerful Gulf Stream current could suck the oil slick down into the Florida Keys, home to the only living coral barrier reef in North America (and the third largest coral reef in the world). Numerous marine species live, breed and spawn in the Keys and then migrate up the Eastern Seaboard.

It is Hard to Bear this News

I am heartbroken as I write these words. The image of oil gushing from this underwater vent is with me day and night, as if I were on location watching in bewildered despair.

Those who take this damage lightly and with bromides like “The oceans will recover” surely must have missed CNN’s recent story that re-visited Prince Edward Island on the 21st anniversary of the Exxon-Valdez spill.

The ecosystem up there hasn’t shown any signs of recovery. Oil residue still coats the beaches. Birds and other wildlife remain contaminated. And the once-thriving fishing industry is devastated. Damage to the social fabric of life there includes bankruptcies, divorces, alcoholism and suicide.

Why This Is Breaking My Heart

I’m physically sickened by what’s happening in the Gulf because it’s such a graphic exhibit of how we are destroying ourselves and this beautiful planet.

This world isn’t ours to exploit; it’s ours to take care of. Every life form — from miniscule bacterium to the colossal whale — has a right to be here. It is their home as much as it is ours. We debase the Creator when we allow His creation to be despoiled.

The greed of those who are in power is matched only by their ignorance. It’s unimaginable to me that they don’t realize we will all sink or swim collectively.

What fish will the wealthy dine on when the world’s seafood is utter toxic?

What air will their children breathe when the entire atmosphere is polluted?

What medical intervention will save these “leaders” their bodies are riddled with cancer, heart disease and dementia caused by living a joyless, isolated and self-centered life?

When will it sink in that we all share the same world and the same fate?

I used to get very angry that a handful of powerful individuals, corporations and governments had so much control over our lives and were making selfish decisions that caused suffering and destruction among so many of us. And there is plenty of anger to go around…

  At BP for lying to the media about the real extent of the damage to protect themselves and not calling for government and scientific experts to access the damage at once — and for ignoring recommendations from the US Minerals Management Service (USMMS) for backup systems that would have contained such a spill immediately.

  At federal officials for trusting BP to handle the situation even though it obviously represented a serious threat to our coastal waters, environment and economy. What were they thinking? This, after witnessing how greedy corporate concerns nearly brought our economy to its knees!

  At USMMS for wimping out on demanding regulations (lack of regulations were the rule of the day in the previous administration; hence the financial meltdown we’re still reeling from). And at USMMS officials who were caught taking bribes (including sexual favors and cocaine parties) in exchange for granting drilling contracts.

  At the three shameful executives of BP, Transocean and Halliburton who all passed the buck at Tuesday’s Senate hearings, each blaming “the other guy.”

  At Congress itself which will, as it has in the aftermath of the financial meltdown, let everyone responsible off the hook.

  And at our government which listens more to rich special interests groups than scientists — and which fails to establish long-term programs (think of Russia’s “20-year plans” of yesterday) based upon what’s in the best interest of everyone — not just business.

But after feeling so much anger for so many violations of fairness (Iraq, Afghanistan, Katrina, the mortgage swindle, the financial bailouts, the abandonment of Haiti, etc.), I’m spent, and disillusioned.

The Gulf crisis is further proof that our Fate is in the hands of selfish people who could care less about others (us!), the environment and a hopeful future. Lately, my anger has morphed into sadness because things appear so hopeless.

Maybe You’re Feeling Hopeless about the Future, Too

It’s easy to feel less-than-enthusiastic about our situation today. The Gulf crisis happened because BP, like other corporations, are rushing to squeeze every last dollar they can out of the earth. Of course, they claim they’re only meeting the demands of our insatiable appetite for comfort and luxury.

But that’s a smokescreen — and we shouldn’t buy into it.

Most of us now realize that our cars, large homes, commercial foods and mega stores come at a great expense — to the planet, as well as to our immediate health and well-being. We’d like to lessen our addiction, but feel powerless. Our efforts are dwarfed by the massive money poured into the pockets of people in seats of institutional influence: Corporations, government, even health organizations like the American Medical Association, American Diabetes Association and the American Heart Association.

How the System Has Diminished Your Power

Searching for a way to deal with my own despair, frustration and sense of powerlessness, I came upon the work of Scott Sherman, PhD, who conducted a fascinating study entitled “Strategies for Success in the Environmental Justice Movement”.

Dr. Sherman first addressed what doesn’t work for achieving positive change:

Legal Action: Going through the courts doesn’t work because of the high cost and the length of time to litigate. I applaud environmental groups going after polluters, but the World Health Organization claims that 24% of current global disease is caused by environmental exposures which could be averted.

Science: Using science doesn’t work because the limited scope of experimentation allows an opposing side to counter with their own “proof.” Think of the unending debate about global warming even as the polar caps melt and species die.

Politics: Using the political process doesn’t work because politicians need millions of dollars to get elected. Who but Big Business has that land of money? And now that the Supreme Court has decided that corporations have the same First Amendment right of “free speech” as individuals, watch our needs to get drowned out even more as corporate dollars get pumped into ad campaigns and lobbying that further their own selfish agendas. (Personally, I’m tired of “writing my congressperson” only to get canned replies and no action. It’s obvious that the only thing that gets politicians’ attention these days is lobbyists’ money.)

The media drones on about court cases, science and politics. But these strategies continually fail to produce the change we ache for. As a result, many people tend to give up — and eat, drink, shop, numb or otherwise “entertain” themselves as a distraction from a depressing reality over which they have little or no say. (Powerlessness, psychologists say, is profoundly stressful.)

You and I Have More Power Than We Realize!

But in the midst of my sadness, I found two recent news stories that
perked me up …

Plastic water bottles banned. As a result of the tireless efforts of 82-year-old activist Jean Hill, her town of Concord, Massachusetts became the first community to ban the sales of water in plastic bottles. Hill’s actions were motivated by the enormous waste and environmental impact of billions of discarded bottles which has created drifting garbage dumps of plastic in the oceans, one as large as the size of Texas.

Not surprisingly, The International Bottled Water Association is protesting the ban and threatening a “legal challenge.” Its PR machine claims their $10 billion industry promotes health by encouraging people to drink up.

“Bottled water is a safe, healthy, convenient food product,” the statement read. “With the current high rates of diabetes, obesity and heart disease, any actions that discourage or prevent consumers from drinking water — whether tap or bottled — are not in the public interest.”

Really? Plastic is now “healthy”? Perhaps they haven’t seen the numerous scientific accounts showing that plastic residue is an estrogenic-like substance which is linked to cancer as well as diabetes.

Sales of HFCS falling. More good news. Sales of high fructose corn syrup fell 9% in 2009, due largely to consumer complaints and a barrage of press reports detailing how unhealthy the stuff really is. The Corn Refiners Association has spent the last six years trying to convince Americans that HFCS is a natural ingredient (made from corn!) and is actually good for you. But the public isn’t buying that line either. HFCS is one of the preeminent sources of calories in our diet and blocks leptin, the hormone that sends the “I’m full” signal to the brain. With leptin blocked, you keep eating and eating — even when your stomach is full.

What Can You Do to Make Things Better?

We may not be able to change the world overnight, but at least we have a chance if we keep plugging away.

In addition to refusing to purchase products that are bad for your health and the environment, here are some of the principles that guide my general strategy in trying to help create a better world for all …

Speak in ways that people can “hear.” For example, I truly believe food is your best medicine, but if I only rant about big Pharma and industrial food, people will stop listening.

Be positive. It’s not enough to tell people what’s bad or unhealthy, so I always include positive alternatives whenever possible.

Be an example. People ask me why I changed my name to “Jim Healthy.” It’s because I had an epiphany last year in which I realized that I wanted to personify my health philosophy — that I actually wanted to live it “publically” in hopes that I would inspire and motivate others. I wasn’t endowed with perfect genes, but I’ve managed stay in peak mental and physical condition at the age of 62 by dedicating my life to health. When people notice what I’m eating in a restaurant, or see me working out, or hear me speak, they know I’m “walking the talk” — and they realize that if I can achieve this level of health and fitness at my age, they can too. It only takes trying.

Use “social judo.” Reframe a win-lose position into a “win-win” so that everyone can benefit. For example, cattle growers have as great a love of the earth as environmentalists. Many family farms in California, Colorado, Georgia, Hawaii, Maine, Missouri, New Jersey, New Mexico, Nebraska, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia, Washington and Wyoming have become producers of grass fed beef because people like you want (and buy) healthy animal products. So they’ve switched their operations to raise free-range beef — to hold on to their wide-open spaces.

Include everyone. Whether we live in suburbs or slums, we all need good health, wholesome food and a cleaner, brighter world for our children. Low-income people suffer disproportionately from chronic disease and malnutrition, so when I recently read about The Baltimore Healthy Store program, it renewed my hope. It provides incentives and free food to corner storeowners, along with nutritional education to the residents of depressed neighborhoods. The program consists of in-store posters, displays, cooking demonstrations, food labels on the shelf and free samples. Wow! That’s a “cooperative” world I want to live in.

Overcome “learned helplessness.” When change seems completely impossible, remember that you aren’t helpless. Quite the opposite. Think of the Baltimore corner stores, the new ranchers and 82-year-old activist Jean Hill. You’re more powerful than you realize.

When you feel disheartened about the oil spill and other environmental disasters, remember the words of anthropologist Margaret Meade: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

Here are some positive ways that caring people are standing up against the environment devastation in The Gulf region. You can help, too …

Grassroots Mapping Gulf Coast Oil Spill is a program in which concerned citizens use balloons, kites and other uncomplicated and inexpensive tools to produce their own documentation of the spill. Such imagery will be essential for environmental and legal challenges to off-shore drilling in coming years.

The National Audubon Society is training and certifying volunteers to wash oiled wildlife. You can sign up online or call 866.448.5816.

Other Ways to Get Involved:

Oil spill volunteer registration (Louisiana)

Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana (Louisiana)

Training and volunteer opportunities (Louisiana)

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (Louisiana)

Pascagoula River Audubon Center (Mississippi)

Oilspillvolunteers.com (Mississippi)

Coast Clean-Up Volunteers (Mississippi)

Coast Clean-Up Volunteers (Facebook)

Tri-State Bird Rescue and Research

Training Marine Oil Response Workers

Here’s a really cute one: Diffusion Hair Studio, owned and operated by Shanna Piper, is partnering with the ecological charity “Matter of Trust” to assist with the oil spill in the Gulf Coast region. “You can help in this effort by donating nylons and hair,” Shanna said. “Hair is stuffed into nylon booms or woven into hair mats for collecting and containing petroleum spills.”

Even in the face of “hopeless” calamities, we can’t give up. This is the way of the warrior — and we must all awaken our “warrior spirit” to achieve health, justice and peace in our world. It’s important to keep trying and never say quit.

In the words of Nelson Mandela, who certainly knows a thing or two about perseverance: “The greatest glory in living lies not in never failing, but in rising every time we fail.”

I’m interested in what you are doing to fend off despair and make our world a healthier place. Please share you actions and thoughts with me and my readers (now a community of 20,000!) on our newly-created Forum. I’m anxious to learn about your efforts!