Green Roofing...What?

As we are building more urban areas, we are also losing green space. A great way to revitalize the urban landscape is to invest in green roofing. Green roofing involves high quality water proofing and root repellant systems, as well as a drainage system, a filter cloth, and a lightweight growing medium along with plants. Some of you may be wondering, “Why a green roof? What can it do for me?”

Green roofs will typically last twice as long as conventional roofs because all the sun damage that reaches bare floors will be used to grow plants. There is a lot of energy saving potential as well, depending on the size of the building, climate, and type of green roof. In Ottawa, Canada, Karen Liu found that 6” of green roof reduced heat gains by 95% and heat losses by 26%. Green roofs also absorb sound pollution from airplanes and traffic.

Green roofs also provide a space of serenity and aesthetic beauty. It can be a place for day care, meetings, and recreation. Instead of taking a break in a dull and enclosed room indoors, employees can take breaks taking a scenic stroll on the roof. For the Fairmount Waterfront Hotel in Vancouver, the kitchen saved up to $30,000 annually by growing it’s own greenery,

Although green roofs are still immature in North America, it is an investment worth looking into for your business. Give your employees a place to look forward to while they are at work!

A Fragrance-Free Future for All?

I am a second-generation Vietnamese American who grew up in Anaheim. I had a variety of friends but I was very conscious about the smell of my house. The Vietnamese are notorious for not only pho (beef noodle soup) but also their nguoc mam (fish sauce). My mother was aware of it too, and we usually wanted the house to smell more "American" so she clipped out coupons for Glade Plug-Ins every weekend.

I remember how the plastic Glade Plug-Ins would soften and eventually burn its plastic cover if we left it in for too long. At one time each power outlet had a Plug-In, but the combination of "Tropical Breeze" and "Pinewood" started to give me dizzying effects. My mother eventually stopped buying them...and now she has turned her passion into buying air filters.

It led me to wonder about the fragrance industry in the world. With Americans generally bathing or showering each day, it's quite amusing to research history. In Elizabethan times, about 500 years ago, bathing once a month was the epitome of cleanliness. Perfumes and potpourri were created from dried organic materials, but nothing was really synthetic at that time. Nowadays, it's much cheaper to create chemical compounds imitating the scents of these fragrances without environmental threats (ex. musk).

I read an article that was reprinted online. It made me think about the fragrance industry and the chemicals we create in pursuit of fragrances.

Synthetic fragrances are used to scent products, and sometimes to mask odors or unpleasant smells that a chemical compound may produce. One good example is a product that I've used in my home for years, Comet, which I recently bought in a lavender scent. I was not particularly happy with the change, as it smelt nothing like lavender.

Since the rise of synthetic fragrances we've been layering ourselves day in and out with chemicals. I have eczema-prone skin and while I lived in Riverside, the dry air caused several major outbreaks. I thought air purifiers would help, which it did, but my condition did not improve as much as simply using oatmeal-based skin products and moisturizers. But beware, just because it is unscented or fragrance-free does not mean that they are chemical free.

Not to mention that some people are just plain allergic to some fragrances. Do you remember any product you've used that caused your skin to break-out? I remember that applying anything on my inflamed skin would cause a burning, itching feel. And have you tried any scented product that gave adverse reactions? For you lucky ones, no. But for those who have...there's a good reason for it. Reactions in fragrances can quickly become medical lawsuits, so much that magazines must adhere to a strict fragrance protocol to prevent accidental exposure.

It is very creepy to know that most fragrances can be launched on the American market without any approval process. Basically, until it makes some kind of adverse reaction, the fragrance manufacturer can go about its business and the FDA would not have any jurisdiction over the matter.

I would recommend simply investing in a good air purifier over the hundreds of dollars you may spend in home fragrances and to begin using organic and wholesome chemical-free products. Granted, some individuals prefer the scent of ocean in the morning, or dew in the evening, but the truth is that it is most likely chemicals and toxins you are exposing your body to. Potpourri may also be an alternative, but keep in mind that some potpourri is also soaked in fragrant chemicals. Fragrance yourself free from chemicals. I am sure it would not only be good for the environment but for your body, too.

Times are a Changing: Time to Update Your Air Conditioner

Big changes are coming to the world of air conditioning on Jan. 1, 2010. In an effort to comply with an international green treaty and slow down ozone deterioration, air conditioners across the country will be forced to comply with a new level of standards. Here are some key facts to help you stay ahead of the curve and save yourself from the heat, especially during crunch time.

These new standards in air conditioning can be attributed to the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty designed to help curb damage to the Ozone layer. It is designed to lead to some actual recovery of the Ozone layer by 2050. Initially established in 1987, it has since been amended seven times and is continually looking to eliminate substances that have defiantly been established as reasons for ozone depletion. Chlorine is one of those substances that has been clearly identified as doing significant damage and has been used since the 1970’s as a coolant in nearly all air conditioning units. This chemical is called R-22 and as of Jan. 1st 2010 will be eliminated.

R-22 will be replaced with a chlorine free coolant called R-410A that has zero ozone depletion. Begin thinking about switching your AC now as R-22 units will no longer be manufactured and that means parts and supplies will make repairs harder and more expensive. In fact, chances are the EPA will make it illegal to sell any R-22 units by the end of 2009.

Don’t be discouraged though. Energy costs have increased 50 percent in the last five years and with the economic climate the way it is, this is a great chance to save money on proper energy efficient air conditioning units. Updating your air conditioner with the proper requirements can save you up to 45 percent. Look at the SEER rating, (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating when purchasing a new unit. A general rule of thumb is that the higher the SEER rating the better the efficiency. Of course, this is entirely depending on your geographic location and many can make do with a low SEER rating where air conditioning is not as drastically needed.

Also be sure to look at rebates and tax incentives while replacing your air conditioning units. Chances are you can get a great deal and save money with a correct purchase. The recent stimulus bill has set aside money for actions like this so search the web or look at your local states Database of State and Incentives for Renewable and Efficiency for proper deals.

The last step to get the most out of your air conditioner is to make sure you obtain proper installation. A key part of upgrading your unit is to get the most out of it and improper and shoddy installation can quickly defeat this purpose. Keep it well maintained as well and you will see a significant reduction in your energy bills. Don’t wait until its 2010, start looking for new and more energy efficient cooling solutions today.

Air Pollution Linked to Developing Asthma While in the Womb

A recent study has proven that air pollution causes genetic changes while babies are still in the womb and often increase a child’s risk of developing asthma. This study was conducted from 56 children. Scientists discovered that when exposed to traffic fumes which include a wide variety of airborne impurities; children’s genes were actually reprogrammed. These genes just so happened to be the ones that were associated with asthma symptoms that usually develop around age five.

This is a significant study because it is the first time that pollution has been shown to actually influence and change genes. The study also happens to record the mothers exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons that are a by product of combustion and are usually present in heavy traffic areas. Researches discovered that there is a connection between chemical changes and high levels of air pollution exposure.

This is an example of epigenetic change which is where environmental factors are able to change the activity of genes without creating structural or mutation changes. There is still plenty of research to be done however. Results have shown that exposure to pollution can interact with genes that effect you later on in life. The benefit of the study is that scientists believe that this could help reduce 25% of asthma or at least reduce the potential damage it could have in the early stages of life.

While the test moves on with continued research for more clear solutions, there are some steps that you could take now to reduce the chances of asthma in your baby while pregnant. It is best that if you are pregnant to stay away from air pollution, but if you are unable to there are other options. If you live in a high traffic areas, look towards vacuum cleaners and air purifiers with HEPA to help control the air pollution within your household , office or apartment. These household appliance have been shown to greatly improve indoor air quality up to 99.97%. Remember proper protection will only aid in help preventing or reducing any potential asthma problems while your child is still in the womb.

Southern California’s Air Proves to be as Dirty as it is Expensive.

A recent report has shown that 28 billion annually in health-related costs is attributed to poor air quality. Both San Joaquin Valley and Los Angeles are the prime culprits in this case. Both regions rank among the nations dirtiest air. Because of poor air quality the report found that there is an increase in health problems and the costs that go along with them. From missed work days because of longer sicknesses, to increased respiratory troubles to premature deaths, these figures add up to cost the state, employers and the average person a pretty penny.

One of the main culprits is the emissions from fossil fuels. Jane Hall, an economics professor at Cal State Fullerton who worked on the report states that a lot of these problems can be reduced by merely reducing combustion of fossil and diesel fuels in these areas. More energy efficient cars and better public transportation will aid in keeping pollution levels low.

So what exactly is the general cost of these air pollutions? Well in the Los Angeles area, the cost of health problems for the average citizens is $1,250 and $1,600 if you life in the San Joaquin Valley. One of the reasons of the lower cost in the Los Angeles area is because of its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. The constant air circulation from the ocean pushes the pollution east. The San Joaquin Valley’s air pollution is trapped by mountains that keep harmful emissions in.

What We Recommend:

Luckily there are air purification units that can keep you and your family safe from these harmful factors. Air purification units differ and vary and it is important to find one that fits your needs best.

If you life in the Southern California area, or any other city with high air pollution we recommend the Airgle 750. Prevent damaging health effects and keep your medical bill low with a high quality air purifier. The Airgle 750 is ultra-quiet and super powerful to keep you breathing easy.

The Airgle 750 has received the highest Clean Air Deliver Rate or CADR out of 159 leading air purifiers. To achieve this high honor it uses a 12 step filtration process to leave the air super clean removing 99.97% of all pollutants from the air you breathe.

It is extremely easy to operate and offers both manual and remote control. The LCD control panel is a breeze to use and alerts you when the filter needs to be replaced. The Airgle 750 is extremely green as well. It uses a low power output and is made from environmentally safe material. The activated carbon filters removes troublesome odors and its optional aromatherapy, leaves pleasant smells in its wake.

Its petite and light weight allowing for you to place it easily in any room. It offers 5 speeds and has timer and a great light sensor mode. The Airgle 750 has everything you could want in an air purifier and will help protect you from polluted air, especially if you live in an area that is troubled with bad air pollution.