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	<title>Uncategorized Archives - Green Building Insider</title>
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	<description>Safe, Eco-Friendly Construction News</description>
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		<title>Choosing Between Green Roofs And Solar Panels for Your Green Home</title>
		<link>https://greenbuildinginsider.com/2557/choosing-between-green-roofs-and-solar-panels-for-green-home</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Chris Jackson]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 30 Jan 2022 19:23:08 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Eco-Friendly Home]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[green buildings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[green home]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://greenbuildinginsider.com/?p=2557</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>More people than ever are shifting towards sustainable homes. In 2020, 29% of homes were rated as having net zero carbon footprints. Choosing a home that is eco-friendly is very important. However, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. It is not just about aesthetics or saving nature. There are also some [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/2557/choosing-between-green-roofs-and-solar-panels-for-green-home">Choosing Between Green Roofs And Solar Panels for Your Green Home</a> appeared first on <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com">Green Building Insider</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>More people than ever are shifting towards sustainable homes. In 2020, <a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200819005525/en/Global-Single-Family-Housing-Green-Buildings-Market-2020-2030-Growth-and-Change-Amid-COVID-19---ResearchAndMarkets.com" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">29% of homes</a> were rated as having net zero carbon footprints. </p>



<p>Choosing a home that is eco-friendly is very important. However, there are a lot of things to take into consideration. It is not just about aesthetics or saving nature. There are also some important functional benefits that will pay off all the investment. And that is important, too! It just wouldn’t make sense for a typical homeowner to spend hundreds of dollars for nothing!</p>



<p>There are a lot of eco-friendly amenities and features that need to be supported, which include things like <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/134/everything-know-about-green-roofs">green roofs</a> and solar panels. One is a tiny garden on the roof filled with soil, plants, and everything else to grow them. The latter replaces the roofing tiles but provides a decent amount of energy savings on the side. Choosing between these two can be like choosing between oranges and apples. Ultimately, the best one always depends on who wants it and why.</p>



<p>You need to understand the benefits of both green roofs and solar panels before choosing the right one for you.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="the-benefits-of-green-roofs">The Benefits of Green Roofs</h2>



<p>Green roofs are layered gardens that can be decorated like a real one. They are, in fact, real gardens that need the same maintenance. As with other gardens, there are a lot of ways to <a href="https://blueandgreentomorrow.com/environment/6-simple-ways-to-make-garden-more-eco-friendly/">make them eco-friendlier</a>. </p>



<p>Depending on the plants grown, green roofs can be either low or high maintenance. The plants will need some regular cutting and pruning, keeping them from looking like wild grasses. Their value is largely measured in their aesthetics: beautiful gardens look nice, so beautiful green roofs should look just as nice.</p>



<p>On the utility side, green roofs provide great insulation during both summer and winter. The plants can absorb the sun’s heat more efficiently than ordinary roofing can ever do. And the soil prevents the warm sunlight from passing through and heating up the interior. It also serves to block the heat from escaping during the colder months. But while this does not replace a good heater, it does help save electricity from interior heating.</p>



<p>Now with all of these on the line, green roofs can be made for a far cheaper initial cost compared to solar panels. On average, a square foot of green roofing will start as low as $10. The price range increases based on how deep the soil needs to be, among other needs. Meanwhile, a solar panel installation will depend on the wattage they produce.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Depending on where you are, a 10k-watt system can cost somewhere between $13K to $30K. Green roofs also last longer than solar panels. Unlike solar panels that start to lose efficiency after a decade and a half, green roofs can last longer than 40 years if the roofing materials underneath are well-protected from ultraviolet light.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="benefits-of-solar-panels">Benefits of Solar Panels</h2>



<p>On the other hand, solar panels offer a different kind of benefit compared to green roofs. While they do get more expensive due to the initial cost, solar panels have a better ROI. For instance, the average homeowner can get back their money’s worth in energy savings in over a decade and a half. In contrast, green roofs take up to 27 years before they can get to 100% ROI. The global market for solar panels is projected to be <a href="https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/solar-panels-market" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">worth over $176 billion by 2027</a>. </p>



<p>And when they do break down, solar panels can be much easier to replace, as well. A single panel can be removed just like a piece of roofing tile and changed with a working one in its place. The panels are attached to each other in series, making it easy to put the next one in there. They are, in a way, made to be a modular set.</p>



<p>Further, solar panels can be scaled based on electrical power. While a few panels and a battery can bring light to a bulb running for days, having plenty of powerful panels can run refrigerators or even electric car chargers! The best systems can even decrease the <a href="https://evcharging.enelx.com/resources/blog/577-how-long-does-it-take-to-charge-a-tesla" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Tesla charging time</a> of your personal electric vehicle (EV) with all of their power.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="how-about-both">How About Both?</h2>



<p>While both can have different benefits and drawbacks, you could also put them together to maximize the upsides. A biosolar green roof is one with both greenery and solar panels. The panels are angled so sunlight can enter underneath where plants could grow.&nbsp;</p>



<p>When used right, a biosolar green roof can help save energy while keeping the sun and cold from affecting the temperature inside. This second effect further saves more energy, making it far more efficient than just having solar panels on the roof. However, this does come with a bigger initial cost. This kind of roof will need as much money as installing a regular green roof, plus whatever is needed for installing a basic solar panel roofing system.</p>



<p>In the end, choosing a good eco-friendly roof depends on the budget, maintenance, and the expected benefits. Green roofs may be cheaper, but solar panels can get back the initial cost much faster. They also have different looks which homeowners may prefer over the other.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/2557/choosing-between-green-roofs-and-solar-panels-for-green-home">Choosing Between Green Roofs And Solar Panels for Your Green Home</a> appeared first on <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com">Green Building Insider</a>.</p>
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2557</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Important Tips for Plumbing in Green Buildings</title>
		<link>https://greenbuildinginsider.com/2412/important-tips-for-plumbing-in-green-buildings</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Hillary Bird]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Sun, 12 Dec 2021 19:22:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eco-friendly buildings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[green building practices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[plumbing]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://greenbuildinginsider.com/?p=2412</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The market for green buildings is growing remarkably. It was worth $256 billion last year, but is projected to grow to over $653 billion by 2028. Although the demand for eco-friendly buildings is rising significantly, there are a lot of issues that green building managers must take into account. They must be aware of different [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/2412/important-tips-for-plumbing-in-green-buildings">Important Tips for Plumbing in Green Buildings</a> appeared first on <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com">Green Building Insider</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>The market for green buildings is growing remarkably. It was <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/green-building-materials-market-size-worth--653-41-billion-globally-by-2028-at-10-5-cagr-verified-market-research-301415278.html#:~:text=According%20to%20Verified%20Market%20Research,10.5%25%20from%202021%20to%202028." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">worth $256 billion last year</a>, but is projected to grow to over $653 billion by 2028. Although the demand for eco-friendly buildings is rising significantly, there are a lot of issues that green building managers must take into account. They must be aware of different building maintenance issues, such as resolving plumbing issues. </p>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Dealing with Plumbing Issues is a Priority for Eco-Friendly Buildings</h1>



<p><a target="_blank" href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/1779/how-green-buildings-will-change-real-estate-expectations" rel="noreferrer noopener">Green buildings</a>&nbsp;are now on the rise, and both people and manufacturers focus on these facilities. With the unprecedented energy and water consumption and also environmental issues, all of us must think of converting our homes to green buildings.</p>



<p>This requires a lot of changes in facilities and our way of life! One of the most essential matters in this regard is the plumbing system.</p>



<p>You need to consider many things in your plumbing system when you&#8217;re going green! Here are some crucial tips for plumbing in green buildings provided by&nbsp;<a target="_blank" href="https://randzplumbing.ca/" rel="noreferrer noopener">R &amp; Z Plumbing</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Use low-flow toilets</h2>



<p>Toilets may be used as a decorative feature in your bathroom, in addition to providing their duty. Although not everyone understands this fact, you should consider its decorative aspects.<br>Also, there is another factor that you need to pay attention to in your toilet, especially if you&#8217;re not indifferent about the environment. So, yes, you should reduce your daily water usage.<br>Low-flow toilets save water by flushing less frequently, while others allow you to personalize each flush. This is one of the best ways to <a href="https://www.motherearthliving.com/uncategorized/eco-friendly-plumbing-tips-zb0z1903/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ensure plumbing is eco-friendlier in a home</a>. It can also help make building plumbing systems eco-friendlier as well. <br>Dual-Button Toilet is an excellent example. This toilet&#8217;s dual-flush design allows you to select two water usage alternatives while flushing.<br>Even if you don&#8217;t care about the environment, you have to use these options to reduce your water bills.<br>Experts predict that we can save up to $110 per year on our water bills just by using low-flow toilets.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Low-flow showerheads</h2>



<p>Fortunately, this option is also available with showerheads, just as it is with low-flow toilets. Showering accounts for about 20-25% of household water use, and low-flow showerheads can help you save up to 40% of your regular water consumption.<br>There are two types of low-flow showerheads to select from. The first is non-aerating, which implies that water flow is controlled and squeezed through tiny openings. This produces a powerful water splash or acts as a water spirit massager.<br>Aerating heads, on the other hand, mix water and oxygen to create a softer, bubblier shower sensation.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a></a>Tankless water heaters</h2>



<p>A water heater is a need in every home. Water tanks, which were once common all around the world, lead to massive energy use. Fortunately, demand-type or tankless water heaters are now available, which heat water directly without storage tanks.<br>When a water tap is turned on, cold water flows into the unit through a pipe. Using a tank heater, you&#8217;ll need to wait for the tank to fill up with enough water for the heater to heat up. On the other hand, demand-type water heaters allow you to restrict the flow rate while eliminating standby energy losses.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Look for a pipe leak</h2>



<p>This is a simple yet efficient method of reducing excessive water use. A pipe leak is defined as a loss of water in technical terms and equates to billable water use.<br>As a result, inspecting your faucets, pipes, and toilets for suspected leaks will help you save money on water. A simple pipe leak may waste up to 20 gallons of water each day, and more significant plumbing leaks can waste considerably more.<br>Checking the water meter before and after a long time of not using any water is a simple technique to discover a potential leak. If the meter has changed despite the fact that you have not used the water, you may be sure that you have a leaky pipe someplace.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a></a>Reduce showering time</h2>



<p>You must&#8217;ve heard your parents shouting at you to hurry up and shower because you&#8217;re wasting water and energy!<br>We may get carried away when bathing because it&#8217;s delightful. However, we had no idea that we had a shower head that was always running and depleting water. Another example is that some of us keep the water running while applying shampoo, a giant water waste.<br>When shampooing, remember to turn your shower head and keep your shower time to a minimum so you don&#8217;t waste any more water.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Efficient faucets</h2>



<p>Another commonly used item that can exacerbate water waste at your home is the bathroom faucet.<br>When you wash your hands, the faucet is letting the water run even when you&#8217;re lathering up with soap.<br>Also, when you wash your teeth before going to bed, your faucet is left running, and this will lead to unintentional water waste.<br>It&#8217;s possible to break our habit of using the faucet. On the other hand, we can go for high-efficiency faucets to reduce water waste during these periods.<br>An aerator blends water and air in this high-efficiency faucet. Although the water flow is lowered, the water pressure is maintained. As a result, you won&#8217;t notice any difference in the volume of water that comes out of your faucet.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a></a>Avoid wasting water in toilet water</h2>



<p>Tissue papers should be thrown away rather than flushed. Every time you flush the waste down the toilet, you&#8217;re not only wasting water, but you&#8217;re also contributing to long-term plumbing concerns like clogged drains, which may require pipe relining.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><a></a>Final thoughts</h3>



<p><a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/1265/green-trends-influencing-architecture-design-landscape">Green buildings are a trend now</a>, and you can increase your home market value by converting your home to a green building. Plumbing plays a vital role in this change. Try to pay attention to the mentioned tips to reduce costs and increase your home&#8217;s efficiency.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/2412/important-tips-for-plumbing-in-green-buildings">Important Tips for Plumbing in Green Buildings</a> appeared first on <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com">Green Building Insider</a>.</p>
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2412</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>Choosing the Right Parts for Eco-Friendly HVAC Projects</title>
		<link>https://greenbuildinginsider.com/2416/choosing-right-parts-for-eco-friendly-hvac-projects</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Michael Tobias]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Dec 2021 19:56:00 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eco-friendly home heating]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[energy efficient buildings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[green buildings]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://greenbuildinginsider.com/?p=2416</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>The demand for green buildings continues to rise as people become more concerned about lowering their carbon footprint. The market for eco-friendlier buildings is projected to grow over 14% a year through 2027. Most of the emphasis on green buildings centers around their construction. However, there are important maintenance guidelines that must be taken into [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/2416/choosing-right-parts-for-eco-friendly-hvac-projects">Choosing the Right Parts for Eco-Friendly HVAC Projects</a> appeared first on <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com">Green Building Insider</a>.</p>
]]></description>
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<p>The demand for green buildings continues to rise as people become more concerned about lowering their carbon footprint. The market for eco-friendlier buildings is projected to <a href="https://www.globenewswire.com/en/news-release/2021/05/19/2232352/0/en/Green-Buildings-Market-to-grow-at-14-3-CAGR-by-2027-Market-Research-Future-MRFR.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">grow over 14% a year through 2027</a>. </p>



<p>Most of the emphasis on green buildings centers around their construction. However, there are important maintenance guidelines that must be taken into consideration as well. If you manage a green building, one of the most important things that you need to do is make sure that the <a href="https://blueandgreentomorrow.com/energy/help-save-planet-with-best-energy-efficient-hvac-systems/">HVAC systems are eco-friendly</a>. You can&#8217;t do this without finding the right parts first.</p>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Eco-Friendly HVAC Projects Require Finding the Right Parts</h1>



<p>HVAC systems have a great impact on the quality of our life. This system is a crucial investment that requires proper planning to choose and buy the right one suitable for your needs. It is important to be comfortable all year round. </p>



<p>Unfortunately, HVAC systems are not without their downsides. One of the biggest issues associated with HVAC systems is their carbon footprint.</p>



<p>HVAC systems account for <a href="https://www.ase.org/blog/hvac-efficiency-what-it-why-it-matters-and-how-get-started#:~:text=Energy%20consumption%20through%20heating%2C%20ventilation,energy%20usage%20in%20commercial%20buildings." target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">around 40% of all energy consumed in commercial buildings</a>. They obviously play a large role in contributing to the climate crisis. Therefore, you need to make sure that you have an HVAC system that operates as efficiently as possible to minimize the impact on the climate. </p>



<p>When you choose your system, there are significant factors to consider to get the right HVAC supplies. Finding your HVAC supplies is not a straightforward purchase, especially if you are trying to lower your carbon footprint; however, you will make an informed decision with the guidelines below.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Consider the following when purchasing your HVAC Supplies for an Eco-Friendly Building</h2>



<p>There are a lot of things that eco-friendly building managers need to do when they are installing or maintaining an HVAC system. They must make sure that it is regularly tested for air leaks that could cause energy efficiency ratings to go down. </p>



<p>However, it is equally important to make sure that the system uses the right parts. This can help make sure that the system operates efficiently. It will also reduce maintenance needs, which is also going to help the environment. Reducing maintenance needs will lower the number of parts that you use, which also preserves natural resources and lowers the carbon footprint by not requiring technicians to travel regularly. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Usage</h3>



<p>This is one of the vital factors when looking for HVAC supplies, how you’re going to use them. It is important to find a system compatible with your lifestyle, the nature of work, commitment to environmental sustainability and other factors. For example, you can choose a temperature controller when working an area that needs particular temperatures for operations.&nbsp;&nbsp;Keeping it at the right temperature can help reduce energy use and lower your carbon footprint. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Speed Control</h3>



<p>Find the one fitted with easy-to-use speed control when <a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/home-improvement/hvac-buying-guide/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">buying your HVAC</a> supply. This is vital for the equipment to match the operational requirements. Ease of use is important. The best option is to choose an HVAC system that is easy to use and operate. Find a system that doesn’t require in-depth skills or technical expertise to manage it. This is the best way to save the time and money you require to find a specialist.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Safety</h3>



<p>The reliability and safety of your system are crucial. These are some vital things to consider when looking for your HVAC supplies. First, ensure that your HVAC supply can operate without causing any bodily harm or affecting the surrounding. The best <a href="https://blackhawksupply.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HVAC equipment supplier</a> fit their supplies with safety standards. Ensure that you read the labeling before buying. </p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Frequency of use</h3>



<p>Before buying this device, it is essential to consider how you intend to use it. The more you&#8217;re going to use your system, the more it will be prone to wear and tear; therefore, find the time to choose the right one that can operate for long hours without stalling or overheating.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>



<p>When sourcing for your HVAC parts, you can overcome this challenge by finding a supplier that caters to professionals. HVAC equipment supply is a very competitive market. As a result, it is becoming increasingly hard to find the best&nbsp;HVAC equipment, supplier.&nbsp;&nbsp;There are different places you can source and buy your HVAC supplies, including your local hardware shops, online stores, national home repair chains, etc.&nbsp;</p>



<p>On the other hand, new and better products are entering the market regularly. Therefore, consider those that add value for the industry experts when choosing your HVAC supplier. Therefore, you should start by determining the retailer who offers the most value; this is the key to finding the right HVAC supplies and parts.&nbsp;</p>



<p>If you are a building manager or an HVAC professional, you must source high-quality HVAC parts. In addition, you are responsible for making sure that you buy the supplies at a cost-effective rate. Finally, all HVAC professionals must satisfy their clients. To achieve this, you must do extensive research and consider the above guidelines.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Finding the Right HVAC Parts is Important for Green Buildings </h3>



<p>Green buildings need to have the right HVAC parts in order save the planet by minimizing your carbon footprint. You will be able to make sure that your building operates more efficiently and uses less energy by equipping it with the right parts. This is one the most important steps to run an eco-friendly business.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/2416/choosing-right-parts-for-eco-friendly-hvac-projects">Choosing the Right Parts for Eco-Friendly HVAC Projects</a> appeared first on <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com">Green Building Insider</a>.</p>
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2416</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>What Is Sustainable Urban Planning?</title>
		<link>https://greenbuildinginsider.com/2167/what-is-sustainable-urban-planning</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ryan Kh]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Aug 2021 18:21:11 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[green building practices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sustainable urban planning]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://greenbuildinginsider.com/?p=2167</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Constant expansion seems to be a fact of life. The Hubble telescope taught us that our universe continues to expand. But we don’t need a telescope to tell us about the expansion in our own little areas of the universe. Over the past few centuries, more and more people have moved out of rural areas [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/2167/what-is-sustainable-urban-planning">What Is Sustainable Urban Planning?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com">Green Building Insider</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>Constant expansion seems to be a fact of life. The Hubble telescope taught us that our universe continues to expand. But we don’t need a telescope to tell us about the expansion in our own little areas of the universe.</p>



<p>Over the past few centuries, more and more people have moved out of rural areas and into urban centers. Add in factors such as immigration and population growth, and urban areas are seeing rapid gains in the 21<sup>st</sup> century.</p>



<p>What is the impact of urbanization, and what can be done to ensure our ever-growing cities remain sustainable?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Causes and Impacts of Urbanization</h2>



<p>In 2018, a UN News report stated that by 2050, <a href="https://www.un.org/development/desa/en/news/population/2018-revision-of-world-urbanization-prospects.html">68% of the earth’s population would live in urban areas</a>. At the time of writing the report, the percentage was only 55%. That difference of 13% represents an additional 2.5 billion people living in cities within 30 years.</p>



<p>People move to urban areas for a variety of reasons, but most often because of economic or social circumstances. Thanks to industrialization, there are greater employment opportunities in cities. And cities typically offer better access to improved housing, education, and healthcare.</p>



<p>However, if population expansion isn’t planned for, it creates a burden for those already living in the city and its infrastructure. This doesn’t mean a fast-growing city can’t thrive, but there must be preparation. Preparation that may need to include an <a href="https://online.maryville.edu/online-bachelors-degrees/sustainability/">education in environmental sustainability</a>.</p>



<p>With a solid understanding of sustainability, urban planners and engineers will be able to create healthy communities. Communities where an influx of people—and the corresponding increase in buildings and traffic—won’t have long-term negative impacts on the surrounding areas.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What is Sustainability?</h2>



<p>According to the Oxford Dictionary, the definition of sustainability is “the ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level.”</p>



<p>That can be applied to almost anything, but what does it mean for the purpose of this discussion?</p>



<p>Today, the term sustainability has become synonymous with our relationship to the planet. And our need to create a symbiotic relationship with it. One where we benefit the planet, and it benefits us. We can’t survive without the earth and its resources, and yet we continue to deplete those very resources.</p>



<p>Referring back to the definition of sustainability, the dictionary also states it’s an “avoidance of the depletion of natural resources in order to maintain an ecological balance.”</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What is Urban Sustainability?</h2>



<p>While sustainability is a global issue, urban sustainability has its own set of problems to address. According to the National Academies Press, <a href="https://www.nap.edu/read/23551/chapter/5">80% of the U.S. population lives in cities.</a> And while this creates many positives for those living in urban areas, it also tends to increase divides that already exist.</p>



<p>We’ve all heard the saying the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. As cities increase in size, inequality often grows. But the impacts aren’t just felt by the population.</p>



<p>More and more resources are consumed to meet the needs of an increased population. The surrounding environment and ecosystems begin to erode and degrade.</p>



<p>Here are some of the problems that arise from urbanization.</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Urban sprawl is encroaching on farmland, wetlands, and forests and we are facing a loss of biodiversity because of it</li><li>Air pollution</li><li>The development of slums</li></ul>



<p>So, what can be done to make a change for the better?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How to Create More Sustainable Urban Areas</h2>



<p>Fortunately, the level of awareness around urban expansion has increased. For decades now, advances have been made in creating and maintaining sustainable urban areas.</p>



<p>Let’s talk about some of the key factors that contribute to creating sustainable urban areas.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">1. Urban Planning</h3>



<p>Urban planning is all about optimizing—putting to best use—a community’s land, resources, and infrastructure. For developments to be sustainable, planners need to take into consideration the needs of both current and future residents.</p>



<p>Physical, social, and economic environments all play a part in urban planning. Factors such as:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Transportation of people and goods</li><li>Community facilities such as schools, police and fire departments, and community centers</li><li>Parks and green space</li><li>Neighborhoods and housing</li><li>Economic development</li><li>Land-use (residential, commercial, mixed-use, open space, etc.)</li></ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">2. Architecture and Engineering</h3>



<p>To be sustainable, buildings need to have a less negative impact on the environment. This means <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/1265/green-trends-influencing-architecture-design-landscape">architecture and design</a> that minimizes the use of building materials that deplete natural resources.</p>



<p>Most green buildings use more natural lighting, have highly efficient HVAC systems, and use materials that are low in VOCs (volatile organic compounds).</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">3. Construction</h3>



<p>Sustainable construction means a process that recycles waste. Eco-friendly building materials such as <a href="https://havelockwool.com/">wool insulation</a> and more reduce the environmental impact of construction.</p>



<iframe src="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1liCxha6KjG4TtxHl1N-uBtkqesHSDOQR/preview" width="640" height="2770" allow="autoplay"></iframe></a><br/> Courtesy Of <a href="https://www.yakmat.com/"> Yak Mat



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">4. Sustainable Communities</h3>



<p>There are several elements that go into the design of sustainable communities. To name a few,</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li><a href="https://liveroof.com/">green roofs</a></li><li>solar energy</li><li>vegetable gardens</li><li>recycling</li></ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">5. Green Businesses</h3>



<p>Long before approval is given and construction begins, environmental impact assessments should be done. This can help determine if a building’s design can minimize negative effects on the surrounding environment.</p>



<p>Businesses can take steps to aid sustainability efforts by building energy-efficient buildings or getting involved in corporate social responsibility programs.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">6. Governance</h3>



<p>We all should play a part in protecting our environment, but direction and governance play a key role.</p>



<p>In cities and large urban areas, wide-scale controls need to be in place for controlling pollution, water management initiatives, policies to protect the environment, funding for ecological research, and urban renewal projects.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">7. Technology</h3>



<p>Our world is increasingly driven by technology, so the idea of smart cities isn’t much of a stretch. Governments are already leveraging the power of technology to connect people to services and improve efficiency and infrastructure.</p>



<p>The framework of a smart city is built upon ICT (Information and Communication Technologies). Connected machines and objects use wireless technology to share data and information that residents can access in a variety of ways.</p>



<p>How does this improve sustainability? In a number of ways, most notably, a decrease in traffic which ultimately impacts air pollution.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Conclusion</h3>



<p>Over the past several years it’s become even more apparent that we all need to pay more attention to the environment. And as mentioned above, in the U.S. more than 80% of the population live in urban areas, meaning sustainable urban planning is more important than ever.</p>



<p>Let’s all think about educating ourselves, at least to some degree, on what each of us can do to help.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/2167/what-is-sustainable-urban-planning">What Is Sustainable Urban Planning?</a> appeared first on <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com">Green Building Insider</a>.</p>
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">2167</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>A Full Guide on Stretch Wrap Pallet for Sustainable Contractors</title>
		<link>https://greenbuildinginsider.com/1923/guide-on-stretch-wrap-pallet-for-sustainable-contractors</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Annie Qureshi]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Thu, 20 May 2021 16:25:10 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[eco-friendly construction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[green building materials]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[green building practices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stretch wrap pallets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sustainable building]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://greenbuildinginsider.com/?p=1923</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>Sustainable contractors need to understand all of the best building strategies that can help them lower the carbon footprint of their operations and minimize the use of raw materials. They need to use tools that help them reduce the amount of material that is wasted during the building process. One product that eco-friendly building professionals [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/1923/guide-on-stretch-wrap-pallet-for-sustainable-contractors">A Full Guide on Stretch Wrap Pallet for Sustainable Contractors</a> appeared first on <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com">Green Building Insider</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>Sustainable contractors <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/1726/eco-friendly-essentials-contractor-should-use">need to understand all of the best building strategies</a> that can help them lower the carbon footprint of their operations and minimize the use of raw materials. They need to use tools that help them reduce the amount of material that is wasted during the building process. </p>



<p>One product that eco-friendly building professionals should be aware of is a stretch wrap pallet. Keep reading to learn more about stretch wrap pallets and their role in sustainable building projects.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The Importance of Stretch Wrap Pallets for Eco-Friendly Building Projects</h2>



<p>Stretch wrap pallet, a plastic film that is incredibly stretchable, usually made of <a href="http://faculty.washington.edu/finlayso/che475/Polyeth/Group_E/used/poly_reactor.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener nofollow">LLDPE </a>wrapped around objects. The elastic recovery clings to the part tightly.</p>



<p>Stretch film is used to wrap and secure pallets. To help minimize material waste, avoid disruption to loads, and eliminate worker accidents. The reduction in material waste plays a big role in helping ensure contracting projects are eco-friendly. In our blog post, we go into greater detail about the purpose of stretch film. There are numerous widths, thicknesses, and stretch film configurations available.</p>



<p>The following section discusses the two most popular types of stretch film extrusion for <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/387/7-most-popular-green-building-practices">green building</a> projects. The process of extrusion is used to create stretch films and a variety of other flexible plastic products. Visit our website for more details on the extrusion method.</p>



<p>It is also known as cast stretch wrap. It is manufactured using the cast extrusion technique. The casting extrusion procedure is a continuous process that involves melting a thermoplastic material and extruding it onto a chill roll using a flat die that has been softened and re-solidified. This technique makes the Cast stretch film more visible, requires less force to stretch, increases tear efficiency, allows the film to sit quietly on the devices, and provides improved cling. As a result, stretch film is suitable for both computerized and manual grading.</p>



<p><strong>Advantages in Cast Stretch Film Cast stretch film: </strong>Itis less expensive than exploded stretch film and is thus more prevalent due to its reduced manufacturing costs. Consumers will also display packaged objects due to increased illumination. In contrast to blown stretch wrap, cast stretch wrap relaxes quietly. In addition, cast stretch film has a double-sided cling, which allows for safe packaging.</p>



<p><strong>Disadvantages of Cast Stretch Film:</strong> It does not have the power source that exploded stretch film does. Furthermore, cast stretch film exhibits fewer resistance and memory than blown stretch film.</p>



<p>The burst stretch cover is often referred to as the stretch wrap pallet. The vertical die of the ring slit extrudes this plastic melt to build a thin wall tube. Air is blown through the film tube in the shape of a ball through a crack in the die&#8217;s middle. A cooling air ring circulates the film tunnel. As a result of this method, the blown film is more robust and challenging than the cast film. Additionally, the exploded film&#8217;s superior technical properties usually result in more substantial holding power.</p>



<p><strong>The benefits of a blown stretch wrap: </strong>Include increased load capacity and extensibility. The blown stretch film is a high-end production. Until prolonged, blown stretch film has a higher memory level, which helps preserve product loads. Additionally, increased tear resistance is advantageous when securing loads with sharp boundaries.</p>



<p><strong>Disadvantages of Blown Stretch Wrap</strong> &#8211; Increased processing costs: The blown stretch wrap is opaque due to the crystallization process. Additionally, the blown film is often very disruptive when rolls are unwound.</p>



<p><strong>Manual vs. Automatic wrappers:</strong></p>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Manual (or hand) wrappers:</li></ul>



<p><strong>Extended heart:</strong> An expansion of the film&#8217;s center serves as a wrapping stick, providing less strength and making the handwork harder.</p>



<p>A simple mechanism protects a film roll, as well as a mechanical braking unit that provides power to allow the film to be extended.</p>



<p><strong>Polar wraps:</strong> identical to mechanical braking mechanisms, but they are located at the end of a stretched shaft. The roll and brake are configured ergonomically to eliminate the need for stretching to wrap loads and strains to reach load tops.</p>



<p>Wrappers that reach for the hands. Two lead rollers for the stretch film have a mechanical portion on this one-handed wrapping product at varying speeds.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Windows that operate semi-automatically:</h3>



<p><strong>Turntable wrappers:</strong> With these options, the box will be packed is supported by a tower that rotates the load compared to the roll of film. The tower is placed inside of a carriage that can be moved to and from a stabilized mast. The load will be extended by rotating it faster than the film can be fed.</p>



<p>A carriage is used to store the film on a vertical ring in orbital wrappers. The load is fed into the rotating eye, and a film is fixed to it. An orbital stretch wrapper is a kind of horizontal ring structure in which the load is fixed. In comparison, a horizontal ring is rotated around the load. It is pulled vertically up and down about it, similar to a rotary arm stretch wrapper.</p>



<p><strong>Rotary arm wrappers:</strong> The load is going to be stationary as a arm rotates around it. This system is ideal for loads with lower weights or those with speeds where the load can collapse due to the fast rotational speeds.</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list"><li>Winding devices that operate automatically:</li></ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Typical fully automated rotary ring wrappers</h3>



<p>Automatic wrappers are usually semi-automatic versions of semi-automatic devices. The automated wrappers incorporate a conveyor mechanism that automatically loads, seals, and supports the film on the wrapping machine and automatic devices.</p>



<p><strong>Turntable wrappers:</strong> The box to be packed is supported by a tower that rotates the load compared to the film roll. The tower is placed in a carriage that can be moved to and from a fixed mast. Extending the load is achieved by rotating it faster than the film is fed.</p>



<p><strong>Rotary arm wrappers:</strong> The load remains stationary as a rotating arm surrounds it. This system is used for light loads or speeds that allow the load to collapse due to the fast rotational speeds.</p>



<p><strong>Rotary ring wrappers:</strong> With these types of wrappers, the film is contained in a carriage on a horizontal ring that rotates around the container. It is raised and lowered concerning the load. Additionally, the rotary ring technique is a better balanced solution that requires minor wear and upkeep than other wrapping techniques. Additionally, this wrapper can operate at a total capacity (as many as 160 pallets per hour).</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Stretch Wrap Pallets Are Important for Eco-Friendly Construction</h4>



<p>There are a number of important tools that eco-friendly building professionals should have in their arsenal. Stretch wrap pallets are some of the most overlooked. You should use them to your full advantage as a green building professional.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/1923/guide-on-stretch-wrap-pallet-for-sustainable-contractors">A Full Guide on Stretch Wrap Pallet for Sustainable Contractors</a> appeared first on <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com">Green Building Insider</a>.</p>
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		<post-id xmlns="com-wordpress:feed-additions:1">1923</post-id>	</item>
		<item>
		<title>5 Signs Your Green Home Needs an Eco-Friendly Plumbing</title>
		<link>https://greenbuildinginsider.com/1756/green-home-needs-eco-friendly-plumbing</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Ryan Kh]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Fri, 05 Mar 2021 11:42:43 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Best Practices]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Home Improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Eco-Friendly Home]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[plumbing]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://greenbuildinginsider.com/?p=1756</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[<p>When you are trying to manage and maintain an eco-friendly property, you need to make sure that you lean on the right professionals. This is important to make sure that the property remains as energy efficient as possible. Sustainable property owners will need to make sure that they know when to call a plumber, so [&#8230;]</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/1756/green-home-needs-eco-friendly-plumbing">5 Signs Your Green Home Needs an Eco-Friendly Plumbing</a> appeared first on <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com">Green Building Insider</a>.</p>
]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>When you are trying to manage and maintain an eco-friendly property, you need to make sure that you lean on the right professionals. This is important to make sure that the property remains as energy efficient as possible. Sustainable property owners will need to make sure that they know when to call a plumber, so the pipes are energy efficient.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Proper Plumbing is Important to Ensure Homes Are Eco-Friendly</h2>



<p>The piping line in every house will wear down over time. Take a close check at your faucets and pipes and you may notice that some of them are showing signs of leaking or have cracks. These signs are telling you that you have been neglecting the maintenance of your house and you need to hire a plumber to fix them. </p>



<p>Why is this important to make sure your property is environmentally friendly? If the pipes don&#8217;t work properly, then the water won&#8217;t be transferred in the most energy efficient way. This is also an <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/1279/safety-tips-for-green-building">important safety consideration when building a sustainable property</a>. </p>



<p>The following are 5 signs when you need to hire a <a href="http://powerhouseplumbers.com/">plumbing service</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. No Water from Your Tap</h2>



<p>You open the tap of your bathroom sink to brush your teeth but there is no water. You check other taps around your home and there is also no water. If your house has no water, you should check with your neighbors if they experience the same problem. A plumber will be able to tell you who you should call to bring back water to your property. On the other hand, if the problem only occurs on your property, there could be a pipe leaking problem and the water that should flow to your house is leaking somewhere else. It is important to contact a plumber to fix the leak problem as soon as possible. Small leaks can quickly develop into a deep flooding situation that can cause damages to your house structure. Fixing them is important to <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/41/4-money-saving-tips-greener-highly-efficient-bathroom">keep the property cost-effective</a>. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. Not Hot Water from Water Heater</h2>



<p>You turn on your water heater but it is not giving you hot water. It could be that the hot water reserve in your water heater tank is used up. If your family uses more hot water than the amount the tank can hold, you will need a new water heater with a larger tank size. The plumber will be able to walk you through the process of choosing the right size water heater. It is up to you if you decide to buy the water heater yourself from a local hardware store like Lowes. Water heaters that did not produce hot water could also be caused by problems like faulty temperature or faulty heating element on the upper part. It is also likely that the socket which you plug in your heater is faulty and not able to produce enough electricity to heat the water heater. Licensed plumbers can pinpoint the problem and use the right tools to fix it.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. Low Water Pressure</h2>



<p>You have noticed lately that the water from your tape is low pressure. You might think that it is all right as long as there is still water flow when you open the tap. However, you must know that it is a <a href="https://www.thespruce.com/home-water-pressure-problems-2718730" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sign that there is a leaking problem</a> somewhere in the piping structure around your home. Low water pressure occurs when it drops below 40 &#8211; 45 pounds PSI. Low water pressure could be caused by problems with the water supplier. Someone has accidentally turned the main shutoff valve halfway. The main water valve is usually connected to your hose in the garden. You need to turn the handle counterclockwise as far as possible. Low pressure can also be an indication that your pipes inside are corroded and need to be replaced. Usually, a corroded pipe will also be leaking. So, you should have a plumber install a new pipe. Copper pipe is a better option than galvanized pipe as it can last longer.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">4. Drain is not Draining</h2>



<p>Your drain is having problems draining the water. This can lead to flood situations in the laundry room when your washing machine is rinsing. In the bathroom, water can quickly flood to a certain level when the drain is not able to drain properly. The problem could be caused by a clog in the drain system. If your drain is clogged, you can hire a plumber to use a camera to look into the depth of the pipe and see what is causing the clog. Hair and grease are the common stuff that causes clogging in the pipe. The plumber can use an augur to break up the clogs that build up in the drain. You can <a href="https://www.homedepot.com/c/ah/how-to-unclog-a-kitchen-sink/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90b9840228#:~:text=Pour%20one%20cup%20of%20fresh,drain%20to%20clear%20the%20clog.">try fixing it yourself</a>, but may need to hire a plumber. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">5. Faucet Dripping</h2>



<p>Faucets dripping is often ignored due to the small amount of leak. However, even a small amount of faucet dripping can increase your water bill. The faucet leak can easily be fixed with a little tightening or application of plumbing tape. If it doesn&#8217;t work, you can call a plumber to diagnose the problem. For leaky faucets, a plumber can help you to replace the old faucet or its seal with a new one. Leaking on cartridge faucets is often caused by a broken cartridge. The plumber can help you to buy a new cartridge that matches the model of your existing cartridge and install it for you.</p>
<p>The post <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com/1756/green-home-needs-eco-friendly-plumbing">5 Signs Your Green Home Needs an Eco-Friendly Plumbing</a> appeared first on <a href="https://greenbuildinginsider.com">Green Building Insider</a>.</p>
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