Halogen Bulbs And The Large Advantages They Offer To Consumers

Lighting equipment such as the venerable light bulb has radically evolved since the early days when Thomas Edison first invented it in the 18th century. Today, consumers are able to choose from a wide array of home or office lighting options, and halogen light bulbs are one of the most efficient lightning alternatives. However despite the many innovations, the standard ‘Edison caps’ are still utilized in some light bulbs, and almost all variants still use the same simple materials, albeit with a new high-tech twist. The lighting devices available today may be utilized for domestic or commercial purposes, and they can also be handy, carry-anywhere devices.

Standard light bulbs are famous for being less-efficient devices and only have a lifespan of around 750 to 1,000 hours of normal usage. Why is this so? Because in the process of providing light, standard light bulbs radiate large amounts of infrared heat which are far more hotter than light. In the long run, the filament's thin spot would break down and cause the light bulb to burn out. Basically, a standard light bulb is made from a fairly large, thin, frosted glass envelope wherein gases such as nitrogen and argon are filled inside the glass. Alternative lighting experts promote halogen bulbs as being amongst the 'brightest' of lighting innovations and claim they are environmentally-friendly products as well.

Halogen lights differ from other energy-efficient light bulb variant because of their very precise lighting focus which makes them ideal devices for use in display cabinets and other special effects requirements. Halogen lighting equipment also offers a wide array of benefits, and these include an extended lifespan that should be twice as long as that of standard incandescent bulbs, and also produce as much as 25% more light whilst utilizing the same wattage levels.

The lighting innovations introduced by halogen are now widely utilized in many industries and are also a viable alternative for your home lighting needs. Consumers are now seeing the benefits of using these devices since halogen lighting is known for creating amazing lighting outcomes in bathrooms, kitchens and living rooms, and other halogen variants are utilized as well in creating a cozier, more relaxing feel in many other rooms. These lighting equipments are also fully dimmable, unlike other energy-efficient lighting equipments. In addition, the filaments inside the halogen lighting devices are encased in quartz, enabling these to withstand higher temperatures as compared to traditional glass light bulbs. With quartz-encased filaments, halogen light bulbs are able to produce brighter lighting for homes and offices. Nowadays, many are replacing conventional incandescent lighting devices with halogen light bulbs. These devices help to cast brighter, whiter lights than the usual yellow hue released by incandescent lighting. These devices last much longer because they utilize a rather different type of gas and housing, making it emit a whiter light as well as attain a longer shelf life.

According to environment advocates, the rate of high carbon dioxide emissions today is linked to increasing levels of electricity consumption,which leads to higher levels of greenhouse gases as well. This phenomenon is a major contributor to global warming and climate change and needs a quick response from goverments and industries as well. The Kyoto Protocol, signed in 1997, affirms the need to set doable targets towards considerably reducing levels of global carbon dioxide emissions. In light of the need to protect our environment, manufacturers and consumers are now moving towards the production and use of greener lighting alternatives like halogen bulbs. The aim is to change consumer habits and make lighting more eco-friendly, as well as to become truly energy-efficient.

Using Fossil Fuels

Fossil fuels are a natural but non renewable source fuels or organic compounds made of hydrogen and carbon that develop thru the natural decomposition of plants and animals over thousands of years. The fuels are used in three forms petroleum oil, natural gas and coal, the most plentiful fossil fuel. They are inexpensive, easy to mine, storable and readily available but only for an estimated 60 years. A clean renewable source or sources must replace fossil fuel dependence.

Forms of fossil fuel provide us with almost all of our electricity, gasoline and heat in colder climates, the problem is that Earth’s crude oil supply is limited and nonrenewable. Crude oil takes millions of years to develop under extreme conditions and can not be synthetically fabricated or recreated. Existing gas station and highway infrastructures are literally built around the distribution of petroleum oil or gas for cars. Because of the immense span of this system a replacement fuel must be designed to work with our current fossil fuel based infrastructure or the expense of a complete new one becomes a financially daunting, huge construction project.

In addition to being non-renewable and difficult tricky to replace at the pumps, fossil fuels are responsible for massive environmental damage. Car and plane emissions contribute to global climate change, acid rain and ozone layer depletion. As the Middle East has the biggest supply of natural fossil fuels, shipping it across the ocean has in the past has lead to massive oil spills which can have a major detrimental effect on ocean and animal life.

Our massive dependence on foreign oil causes a very tense competitive trading environment where the U.S. has no control of the price of oil or the amounts available. If we do not run out first we could reenter a national fuel crisis if foreign sources refuse to supply or trade with us because of politics. The duration of our use of fossil fuels is therefore dependant on our trading relations with oil rich areas like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Iran and Iraq. A cutting off of the supply already occurred in the “Mideast Oil Crisis” of the 1970’s and next time we need to be prepared. Crude oil reserves will last, at best sixty more years and only half of that time if our supply from the Middle East is terminated before it is completely depleted. Nuclear energy power plants are again under construction to maintain power and heat to homes. This generation will see the end of our fossil fuels supply if we are ready or not. Hopefully together we can safely transition to alternatives rather than panic as we literally run out of gas.

As awareness arises, children and adults are encouraged, sometimes through government grants and carpool lanes to walk, ride bikes or carpool together to work or school to conserve our precious fossil fuel supply. Thousands of new green jobs are on the stage for creation and must be seized with innovation and enthusiasm to encourage sustainable and renewable fuel sources for future generations. While environmental education provides incentive for some, others will be encouraged to lessen use of fossil fuels and reduce carbon emissions for monetary reasons. Many insist on a tax of fossil fuel to subsidize clean energy. Kyoto, informally known as the Earth Summit is an international environmental treaty intended to achieve worldwide stabilization of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system. The time for a change from fossil fuel is a number one worldwide issue best approached with quick action and innovation and with a clean and green, alternative fuel powered tomorrow in our minds’ eye.

3 Easy Steps to Cut Down on Home Energy Costs

While there is no way of getting around the monthly electric bill, there are ways to cut the cost we put into our homes for electricity. Investing in ‘green’ lighting options such as compact fluorescent light bulbs and Energy Star light fixtures will help alleviate the pressures that we have been feeling from money. Within this article, you will find three quick ways to not only put a discount your next electric bill but also to support and maintain the environment.

1. Fill Light Fixtures with Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFLs): Everything from accent lamps, ceiling fans, and kitchen pendant lighting comes with a screw in light bulb and if it is best to replace your existing incandescent bulb with a fluorescent light bulb. The latter has been proved to outshine up to thirteen incandescent light bulbs. While fluorescent bulbs may be more expensive to buy, the added cost ends there. With a bulb life of 10,000 hours or more, you won’t have to constantly replace your fixtures as regularly as you would with an incandescent light source.

2. Install Energy Star Light Fixtures: Energy-saving lighting options come in all styles and are perfect for any light source whether indoors or out in the garden. Once you think of all of the light that you use in one day, you may think differently when you are faced with the choice of Energy Star lighting or regular lighting. From bathroom exhaust fan lights and outdoor porch lights to under cabinet lighting and wall sconces, there are many ways to save on energy costs within your home. Energy Star lighting products use about 75% less energy to shine through your home than regular lighting options.

3. Take Advantage of Natural Light During the Day: Whether you are redesigning a home or starting from scratch in a new house, position furniture near windows in order to get optimal natural light exposure. Pull back the curtains and let the daylight serve as your main light source for the day. Install a dimmer or panel control on your wall to set lights on a low level to keep lights cool and use less energy in a particular space in your home. In addition, position interior accent lamps near popular reading corners or loveseats so that specialized lighting can be used for a particular task and energy won’t be wasted in lighting the entire room.

Biodiesel Fuel - Important Things You Need to Know About this Alternative Fuel

If you are growing tired of the continuous rise of the price of gasoline and of humankinds growing disregard for the natural environment then it may be time to start seriously considering the benefits of biodiesel fuel. The reasons are many why this alternative fuel source could be the answer to our future energy problems, but one thing is certain, reliance on fossil fuels is a dead end road because sooner or later they will run out.

Let's look at this from an alternate view point, namely the growing popularity of hybrid vehicles. These cars use small gasoline powered engine to continuously charge their batteries. This has the advantage of great gas mileage with lower emissions.

But there is a trade off. They cost significantly more then their gas powered predecessors, so much so that the cost of purchasing a hybrid in many cases is much greater then any long term savings on gas purchases. You also have to consider that these cars still rely on crude oil as their fuel source, which as time goes on will become prohibitively expensive even for these high mileage wonders.

This is where biodiesel fuel has a distinct advantage over even the new generation of high mileage hybrid cars. It is a clean burning alternative fuel that is made from renewable and recycled natural materials. In fact a vehicle using biodiesel will produce up to 60% less pollutants then any gas burning engine. While the fuel mileage is not as good biodiesel also does not suffer from the pressures of dwindling supplies driving prices up.

Here's the true beauty of making biodiesel; it can be made from any number of natural sources including vegetable oil (both fresh and used), animal fats, treated sewage, and lately studies have been successful in refining it from certain types of seaweed. This is what helps keep the cost down, the overwhelming supply of raw materials.

Another caveat of the alternative fuel is the fact that you can make it in your backyard. After the initial investment of procuring and setting up your own biodiesel kit you can produce your own fuel almost cost free for as long as you wish. Before you do this you do need to make sure that you have a diesel powered vehicle, but if you do you can soon be self sufficient when it comes to your daily driving fuel needs.

The Benefits Vehicles Powered by Biodiesel Fuel

As the need for cheaper alternative fuel sources increases those who already are producing and using their own biodiesel fuel are beginning to understand and appreciate just how beneficial this form of fuel is. If you are wondering if biodiesel is in your future here are some of the benefits of producing and using this fuel source for your vehicle.

The biggest benefit to using this form of alternative fuel is the fact that its source of production is completely renewable. Because it can be processed and refined from vegetable oil it doesn't suffer the same problems as the world's finite supply of crude oil. And the best part is you can use either virgin vegetable oils such as canola, corn, and many others or you can use oils that have already been used, which in most cases involves the preparation of food.

This is probably one of the biggest upsides to filling up your gas tank with biodiesel; the ability to recycle used cooking oils for use in a clean burning, environmentally friendly fuel source. There have also been successful attempts to extract biodiesel fuel from other source including raw sewage and seaweed. This may sound far fetched but there are ways to extract contaminants from biodiesel as it is being refined, resulting in a clean burning fuel.

Another benefit that was unexpected was biodiesels ability to help clean internal engine parts such as the fuel filter and fuel injectors. These two engine parts are notoriously known for getting fouled up with fuel deposits leading to less then optimal engine response. Studies show that biodiesel actually cleans away these deposits which helps increase engine performance and life.

In fact it is recommended that once the switch to biodiesel is made you should replace your fuel filter after the first 600 to 800 miles of operation with the new fuel. The biodiesel will clean out the fuel system and the residue will soon clog the existing fuel filter. Once you replace the filter you need not worry about performance robbing fuel deposits ever again. Not only will you see an increase in engine performance but your engine should run more efficiently as well.

These are but a few of the benefits of using biodiesel fuel. Others include the ease with which it can be made, in many cases right in your own backyard with a minimal investment that will soon pay for itself. If this sounds like something you are interested in then spend some time researching biodiesel and what this alternative fuel can do for you.

Hybrid Car - what is it?

There are more and more reasons why people are these days thinking about hybrid automobiles. First they are getting annoyed with their usual gas-guzzling conventional car because of the constant increase in fuel prices. And the second reason is the environment. People are becoming aware of the dangers of global warming are are actually making an effort to make a difference by either buying or renting a hybrid car. Hybrid is just one of the more environmentally friendly answers. Some people with cars are now leaving them at home and walk from home to the place where they work. Some are using trains in order to save some money.

But a lot of people just don't have the chance to use other means of transport to work. Lots of them even need their car during their job. Renting or buying a hybrid car can cut the fuel costs in half. Just think about it, you can effectively travel more than 60 miles per gallon with hybrid cars. It is not all in the gas consumption. The best and the most advanced normal cars can sometimes use even less fuel than hybrids (the really small ones that is) but even they don't even come close to hybrids when it comes to saving the environment.

Hybrid cars have a lot less pollutants than conventional automobiles. This means that not only will you lower fuel consumption, but you will also decrease the level of pollution that is poisoning the environment and us humans. With hybrid cars, everyone can benefit.

So how do hybrid cars run, how are they different?

First of all there are the costs. Hybrids are cost more money than normal cars. But with the money saved by fuel and even with some tax incentives you can get you can, during the hybrid car lifetime, save enough to make hybrid cars cheaper as conventional ones. And even if you just break even or even if your hybrid car ends up being more expensive - you are making something for the environment and making a world a better place.

The technology behind the hybrid car is quite simple. Hybrid cars mix electricity, which is the cleanest energy source available, and internal combustion fuel engine to run the car.

Hybrid cars run on both electricity and gasoline energy. First of all - when you start the car and the car is in idle mode or not running, the gasoline engine turns off. At this time the car is solely running on electricity. This is also the reason why hybrid cars are so quiet. And this will also explain why hybrid has less fuel consumption. Once you step on the accelerator, the internal combustion engine will automatically start up again.

There are also hybrid cars that can run solely on electric energy. This is useful if you are only using the car for local driving. You don’t even need to pour gasoline in the car. The traveling range can be however limited, so it is not very suitable for driving to far away places.

You can have a back up internal combustion engine that will be only turned on when needed - when the battery is discharged.

A good thing about todays hybrid cars is they don’t need to be plugged in like the electric car. They use kinetic energy to recharge the battery.

Energy Efficient Windows Help Environment

The old saying "the devil is in the details" can pertain to many situations, as well as your home. There are so many details to consider and, if you don't explore your options, you may have regrets later.

Locating the right type of windows for your home is definitely one of those fine points. Many people are unaware of how many different types of windows are accessible, and even less of an idea about what type is right for them and their home. With some research guidelines and the right questions to ask, you will be able to see the practical value and beauty that you can add to your property.

The most universally acclaimed and sought after type of window offered is the energy-efficient window. The energy-efficient window is perfect in any climate because it acts as an insulator. This will solve the drafty window problem in chilly environments, while keeping cool air in when in warm climates. So not only are energy-efficient windows good for the environment by consuming less energy through insulation, but they can also save you quite a bit of money on your heating and cooling expenses. Also, because energy-efficient windows are also a hot ticket item for home buyers, this will add value to your house when it comes time to sell.

If you are beginning from scratch with a newly constructed home, you won't have to worry about this one. All the windows will be brand-new with new frames and surroundings. Many individuals are not in that situation, however, and have to decide whether to change the window (meaning the glass) or the entire frame and surroundings.

A replaced window will fit right into the opening and will usually not alter the look or style of the home a great deal. This is a good option if the frame and surroundings are in good shape. While a replacement window and new window cost about the same, the labor needed for a new window makes this option more costly. Of course, if your window openings are not typical sizes, the windows will have to be custom fit or cut, adding expense with either selection.

A new window is perfect for the homeowner who wants to increase the window size and opening, as well as change the look and feel of their home. For example, a homeowner may wish to go from a little window over the kitchen sink to a bigger service window to be able to pass food through to the backyard. Or a homeowner may wish to turn a picture window in the master bedroom to French doors with full windowpanes opening to the patio.

Windows are a vital element in your home and they can change the cost of living, your environmental impact, your level of comfort and the design of your retreat. It's important to give the decision of this detail the right amount of examination and consideration.

Understanding What Solar Energy Is

The sun is a powerhouse of energy that man will never harness in its totality. If scientists were able to harness just a fraction of the sun's energy to power our cars that presently are polluting our air, then Earth's lifespan would be lengthened. Solar energy would revolutionize the way we live, work and travel.

Solar energy is radiant heat and light that is emanated from the Sun. This light helps to influence the climate on Earth and allows not only humans and animals - but also fish to live. Solar energy has been harnessed for power since the ancient times by humans through the use of different technologies.

The Earth can receive 174 petawatts of solar radiation or insolation in its upper atmosphere. Close to 30% of that is reflected back into space and the rest is absorbed by the clouds, land masses, and the oceans. The spectrum of solar light on the surface of the Earth is predominantly spread across near infrared and visible ranges and a small part in the near ultraviolet. The solar light that is absorbed has the ability to heat the land surface as well as the atmosphere and the oceans.

Solar energy, hydroelectricity, wind, and wave power make up 99.97% of the renewable energy that is available on the Earth. The total amount of solar energy that the Earth’s atmosphere, land masses, and oceans absorbs is close to 3,850 zettajoules a year. Studies show that in 2002 this was more energy in one single hour then what the world would use in a total year.

The amount of solar energy that the Earth’s surface can capture is so large that in a single year it will be twice the amount that we can obtain from non-renewable resources of oil, coal, and natural gas. Because of this consumers themselves are seeking to purchase their own solar energy systems to help save them money and to keep the Earth safe.

Save the Environment with Reusable Bags

There is a growing concern about the environment today. Starting from activists to small children, most people are concerned about the environment. The concept of going green has gained a lot of prominence. However, this concept can only succeed if we a ready to make those small changes in our daily lives that finally result into a collective change in the bigger picture i.e. environment. Environment conservation is not just about discussing the causes and potential threats; it is about finding good eco-friendly alternatives to the various items that are being used by us. Plastic bags are one such item that is used extensively. As per estimates, The United States uses more than 100 billion new plastic bags a year. If we can cut down upon this usage or even better if we can stop using plastic bags completely, the environment can be benefitted in an immense way. The huge consumption of plastic bags leads them to pile up in landfills after they are disposed of. Being low in weight, they fly away and settle in drains beaches and other areas. As a result the drains get clogged and the coastline gets polluted. Further more, estimates say that it takes 12 billion barrels of oil to produce the amount of plastic bags needed in US a year. That’s quite a lot of oil and we can easily save it. Papers bags too are not a good alternative to plastic bags. More paper bags means cutting down more trees which in itself is very bad for the environment. Moreover, paper bags produce much more waste in the atmosphere as compared to plastic bags. Use reusable bags. These bags are made up of non woven polypropylene which is not only simple to make but also durable and strong in quality. They are available in a variety of styles and prints and can be customized to one’s preference.

Building a Green Corporate Culture

What’s the latest fever to have caught everyone? It’s the Green fever, a trend that has touched every known industry today. The Green movement began with slow little steps but is now taking giant leaps into the big league. Realizing the importance of the Green revolution, several industries have tried to incorporate the green buzz within their work space. But we need more intensified action for a global impact.

Let us peek into the corporate world to see how this influential sector can contribute to promote the green culture. People belonging to this industry know the real worth of corporate gifts, generally distributed during career exhibitions, business conferences or any other promotional campaigns. The chief motive behind these promotional campaigns is to stand out in the midst of thousands of brands who are equally vying for attention. To begin with, corporate gifts should be personalized and customized to spread a message. Moreover, these gifts should be made of eco-friendly products like jute, hemp, or any recycled material. This not only makes the gift unique but also catches attention of millions who admire this noble gesture.

With corporate infrastructure getting more complex, there arises the need for implementing green IT strategies aiming to cut down energy loss for a successful business operation. The corporate industry should also invest their valuable time thinking out ways to recycle e-wastes. In fact, this should ideally be done before implementing business rules and practices. Redefining the data system along with streamlining daily operations constitutes quick energy cutting solution and performance enhancing scheme. Reducing the number of servers is beneficial for better utilization of software and hardware resources thus minimizing expense.

Next comes the basic rules of introducing green ethics at office. Putting your computer to sleep mode during more than 15 minutes break; using energy-saving lighting systems, recycled coffee mugs, eco friendly products like booklets, brochures, data sheets, stationery items- are just some of the essential green initiatives that can be taken. It is the sum total of all the measures taken together that will actually bear fruit for the future generations. Let us take our pledge to do whatever little we can to help save the environment from impending environmental doom.

Waste Management

We all play a huge part in waste management. It is probably a bigger role than many of us realize. Environmental services would not be such a fundamental part of your life if you did not have waste to throw away.

That is why you need to take part in a recycling program in your area. People expect the world to always be a safe, clean place in which to raise their children. However, that can only happen if we all do our fair share to keep it clean.

Waste in cities across the globe continues to pile up. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that only 30 percent of people are now recycling more waste than at any time before, which means a very large number of people are not bothering. Household hazardous waste pollutes the environment and continues to destroy our precious ecosystem. But you do not throw recycled products in with your regular trash, do you? Good, because that would mean you are not doing your part.

Waste management is about taking care of your duties to the planet. You have to be aware of how much garbage is going into your local landfills. Recycling is the best way to keep your home clean, and we are not talking about your house or apartment, but the planet we live in.

Buying recycled products may seem like a small gesture, but it actually makes a huge difference. As more people by recycled products, the more companies will look to invest in recycling techniques. There has to be a market to make it work.

From the roads that you commute over to the paper you use to write on, these products may contain materials that have been recycled, so look out for recycled products when you are in shops. If you are doing your part to help save the environment and keeping waste that can be reused out of our landfill sites, that is a good start.

If you feel that much of this has been missed by you and your family then it is time to start taking action. We can all start today, there is no time like the present. You just need to make that call to the local recycling center to find out what products are accepted.

When you see others recycling, this may convince you to be more conscientious about waste reduction and disposal. Then in turn, imagine how many people may be swayed by your efforts. The pass it on mentality is how these things spread far and wide. Peter Barbour has been involved in the waste industry for many years and has worked for many companies in the waste business.