Roof gardens are built for both their aesthetic and their functional values. A roof garden can provide temperature control, architectural enhancement, hydrological benefits, and of course food. It can also serve as a habitat for wildlife. There are a number of advantages when you plant a roof garden. It can cool the room below it, especially during a hot day. During winter, it provides insulation against the cold. In Germany, roof gardens are required to retain water from evaporating. It will prevent flash floods from occurring. There are three basic types of roof garden. They differ according to the maintenance they require, the type of plants the roof will support and the depth of the soil. The three types of roof gardens are:
Extensive Roof Garden
This is the easiest type of roof garden to maintain because it uses shallow soil. Extensive roof gardens are lightweight, and ideal for the roofs on garages, sheds, and other small extensions of the home. Although it’s easy to maintain this type of roof garden, it has the least aesthetic value, and the number of plants that can grow on it is quite limited. Examples of plants you can grow in an extensive roof garden are lichens and mosses. Lichens are symbiotic organisms that can colonize on surfaces such as glass, metal and plastic. Mosses are small green plants that do not require large quantities of nutrients for survival. They cling on stone and walls and, can live off of rainwater alone.
Semi-extensive Roof Garden
This type of roof garden has deeper soil, and can support a larger variety of plants. It can therefore be decorated more easily than the extensive roof garden. The soil is heavier in a semi-extensive roof garden, and requires a stronger structure in order to support it. One could plant sedums in this type of garden. These are succulents that can store water in their tissues. That means you won’t need to go out and water them every day – but during times of drought, they could die and turn patchy if not properly cared for. On a semi-extensive roof garden, you can also plant wildflowers that can grow without any maintenance.
Intensive Roof Garden
This type of roof garden can support trees and elaborate arrangements. Intensive roof gardens require large, strong structures to support them. Most homes are not suitable for this type of roof garden, but they can be found on concrete buildings and on top of roof decks. There’s no limit to what you can plant in an intensive roof garden, so long as the structure of the building can support the weight.
Vegetation blankets can be used to create green roofs, but they aren’t limited to just that.
A vegetation blanket consists of a layer of fiber covered in a substrate on which plant life can live; with various plant species growing on it.
These blankets can be used to cover roofs, roundabouts, sound barrier walls, and embankments – to name a few. They can literally be rolled up for transport and then unrolled on top of the surface you wish to cover.
Due to their flexibility, they are also versatile and can lie over a curved roof, a sloping surface, or just about any otherwise awkward area. They are light-weight, insulating, and low-maintenance.
What’s more, they are quite eco-friendly. A green roof can be used to absorb and evaporate water runoff that would otherwise be wasted – or even worse, that would flood sewer systems and pollute rivers (as is the case in Portland, Oregon, for example).
Furthermore, a roof which is covered in live vegetation absorbs carbon dioxide and emits oxygen, thus helping to restore balance on a carbon-heavy planet that currently needs all the vegetation and plant life we can put on it.
For more information on vegetation blankets, where to get them, related services, and other details, please see this product description of Sedum Vegetation Blankets.
Establishing and utilizing a home greenhouse is an excellent way to save money on groceries, follow a healthier and more nutritious diet, conserve on energy, and help the environment at the same time. But greenhouses don’t grow on trees – they have to be built. Not all of us have a professional builder in the family, or the budget to hire a specialist.
This is where greenhouse kits come in handy. If you aren’t looking for elaborate design but you need a basic and simple greenhouse for home use, this is a great way to get started without a large investment of time or money.
Greenhouse kits vary widely in cost and design. A very simple and economical variety can be found for under $40.00 or $50.00. This small greenhouse might consist of nothing more than a 2 foot square fabric tent where you can house a few plants and extend their growing season.
In this price-range, you can also find a basic enclosure system for a greenhouse, which will provide the framework and support that can then be covered in the material of your choice.
Moving up the line, you can find a more serious set-up for anywhere between $400 and $900, which includes either fabric or glass walls, and provides enough space to grow a full set of vegetables or other plants. Larger greenhouses, from 10 to 20 square feet in size, cost a few thousand dollars. But this might still be far simpler than building the entire structure on your own.
Once you’ve found and purchased the greenhouse kit that’s right for you, you will need to assemble it yourself, just as you would with any other kit. But you will have step-by-step instructions and all the parts you need, cut and sized to fit, and tested by the manufacturers.
While setting up a greenhouse requires an investment of time and money, you should be able to recoup your investment over time, providing that you actually use your greenhouse. The amount of money that can be saved by growing one’s own food is easy to underestimate – particularly where large families are concerned.
Growing food inside a greenhouse is extroverting, fun, and educational. It can make it possible for you to grow foods at all times of year, instead of being limited to certain seasons. It can be very frustrating to go out and buy gardening equipment and seeds, only to get so busy with work that by the time you are ready to work on your garden, it is too late in the year.
A greenhouse can give you the extra leeway you need, and make it possible to have fresh home-grown vegetables year-round. It might also make it possible for you to grow the plants which normally wouldn’t grow in your region at all. Such as – who knows, habaneros in Montana?
You already know why utilizing solar energy to power your home is an awesome decision: it reduces the need for nonrenewable oil, diminishes greenhouse gas pollutants, and ultimately puts money in your pocket by not being dependent on the utility provider.
Unfortunately, solar panels are like hybrid vehicles: right now most owners are those who have dispensible income and and a concern about the environment. Installing a photovoltaic system (in Greek, “photo” means sun and voltaic refers to power) for the eventual monetary gains is usually not the primary reason people go solar—for most people its more about the environment than anything. The average time period for making back the money you put into the installation is about 10 years, depending on the system size and the state you live in.
But here’s the key: right now most states have incredible public incentive programs that you should absolutely take advantage of. Federal stimulus money has boosted these programs, yet the real spur is the changing attitude among planners and politicians who finally see the need for a renewable energy future. States are drafting plans that mandate the use of a certain percentage of renewable energy within the next five or ten years and there is real momentum in the political arena to encourage citizens to install photovoltaic systems on their homes.
In New York State, for example, the NYS Research and Development Authority is responsible for administering funds to homeowners, businesses, and municipalities. If your application is accepted (which in most cases is almost guaranteed), then your incentive package can cover up to 50% of your total installation cost. On top of that, you can get up to $5,000 in federal tax credits! Municipalities and non-profits have slightly better incentives than homeowners and businesses, yet they are all quite substantial.
What are the limitations for solar incentives from NYSERDA? For residential applications, you cannot get funding for any system larger than 10 kw. That’s okay though, since the average American home doesn’t usually require a system much bigger than that.
But should you procure a system that covers your buildings entire energy load? That depends. You must have enough available roof space with no shading issues. However, you can always get a ground mount if you have ample space in your yard. It is more economically and environmentally effective to go for the larger system, but keep in mind your incentives probably have a cap.
One reason that homeowners might choose to install a system that covers their whole load and then some, is that you can sell back excess energy to the grid. That’s right, with net metering, if you generate more than you use, the utility company pays you. In most cases, you cannot have a grid-tied system that produces more than 110% of your load, so the utility does have some discretion.
A few more reasons to take advantage of such incentives: You will rarely have to maintain or clean your panels (maybe once a year, or if they’re accessible in the winter to brush off the snow) and most come with at least a 30 year warranty. They’re virtually indestructible. The only cost to you is the initial installation price, which varies but on average is in the $10,000 to $50,000 range for an average homeowner. Remember, with state and federal incentives, that number can be cut in half. Incentive money does run out, so plan accordingly. Solar installation is easier than every before and is on its way to becoming mainstream as people recognize the benefits.
That’s right. Beginning this fall, government rebates will be available for the purchase of energy efficient household appliances, such as dishwashers, washing machines, and refrigerators. After the huge success of the cash for clunkers program in breathing life back into the auto-industry, as well as into our commitment to cleaner air, we should be hopeful that this program will have a similar effect.
As part of the 2009 federal economic stimulus bill, congress has authorized $300 million dollars for the program with rebates that are expected to reach up to $200, depending on the appliance. The primary requirement is that the appliance bear an Energy Star rating provided by the EPA and Department of Energy. But the program differs pretty significantly from cash for clunkers, in that it doesn’t require you to turn in your old appliance to be eligible.
How do you go about getting your own rebate? That information is not available quite yet. The federal government divided the $300 million among states according to the number of households, and states are to submit program plans by October 15. So you will have to wait a few more months, than contact your state government for further details.
A green kitchen begins with the most eco-friendly countertop. You want something that is as durable or beautiful as Corian or granite, but measures up to the highest standards for your family’s health and the environment. Luckily, many products you thought were not “green” may actually surprise you, as more countertop companies are now making their entire manufacturing operations sustainable.
However, out of the slew of options out there, there are a few that are not so eco-friendly. Granite, marble, quartz, engineered stone, and laminates are usually not the most sustainable. The use of raw materials is the biggest factor here. Granite, for example, requires lots of energy and disruption of land to be mined. Engineered stone, comprised of quartz, shares this negative impact on the environment, and additionally uses some harsh pigments in its production. Most of your traditional options use sealants with VOCs and other environmental contaminants. Another issue with granite is the risk of radon radiation into your home.
So what options are out there for the health and eco-conscious? The coolest alternatives are surfaces made from recycled materials, most notably glass. Companies like IceStone and Vetrazzo have paved the way for extremely durable, beautiful countertops made from at least 75% recycled glass with a concrete composite. IceStone is particularly committed to green design; it has been awarded the coveted MBDC Cradle to Cradle award for the thoroughness of its sustainable practices.
In addition to glass, other recycled products can be transformed into your kitchen surface. One company, called Paperstone, uses compressed recycled paper and petroleum-free resins made from cashew nuts! You wouldn’t think paper would act as a very resilient countertop, but this product is actually incredibly durable and has received great ratings.
What about wood and concrete? Concrete is a bit less expensive, very heat resistant and can be morphed into any shape you desire. It is also considered to be “green” by many sources, as recycled aggregate is often used. Its also much easier to chose your own sealer: low VOC-emitting sealants are easy to find. Wood surfaces are generally durable and easy to clean; they are also available with forest products certified by FSC, making them just as green as the recycled glass.
The key to finding an eco-friendly surface is to be prepared for the maze of impressive sounding eco-labels. To be competitive, all top-of-the-line countertop companies are saying they’re “green” in some way. This is particularly true with the granite, quartz and marble countertop manufacturers, who may have made some green steps in their operations, but at the end of the day, mining is still incredibly environmentally unfriendly. Make sure you do the research on all of the eco certifications before you are greenwashed into thinking a product is completely sustainable.
Okay, toilet talk probably isn’t your favorite topic. When you think about the fact that the average American wastes 7,665 gallons of water each year just flushing the toilet—suddenly toilet talk raises to the level of appropriate and relevant conversation.
I remember seeing compost toilets out in the middle of a national park. It made sense there and I was willing to do my part by tossing in a handful of compost material after I finished my visit to the outhouse. But there are several versions of these no-water, environmentally-friendly toilets available for purchase and home installation.
What is a composting toilet?
A toilet which use little or no water and treats toilet wastes on-site for reuse as valuable compost.
How do they work?
Composting toilets use “oxygen loving-bacteria present in human waste to do the work.” They do not require water hook-ups and they let nature’s decomposition process reduce waste by about 90 percent. With the proper installation and equipment, there is no odor, nor do you have to use bugs or worms to aid the process.
A composting toilet can be used just like a regular toilet. The biggest difference is that you toss in a scoop of compost mix after each use—instead of flushing. You do have to empty the compost tray occasionally, but you are emptying environment-enhancing composted soil. There are many different designs of composting toilets, but all carry out this basic process of aerobic decomposition.
There is a free on-line book entitled The Humanure Handbook. It probably is in the category of “too much information,” but if you’re serious about the specific workings of composting toilets—this may be the book for you. Another excellent resource is the “Composting Toilets Systems Book” that gives you info and options for not only composting toilets, but for installation of greywater systems as well.
What do they cost?
Many individuals make their own very inexpensive versions. There are several companies that make compost toilets that won’t leave you yearning for the “olden days” of flush toilets. They are good looking and highly functional. They started at about $1500 and go up to about $3000, but that is a drop in the bucket compared to installing a septic system or a city-wide sewer system. When you start calculating water savings (each American spends about $30 a year just on toilet water) and the positive environmental impact (no waste, just a usable end product), composting toilets become a very attractive option.
Are they approved by health authorities and do they meet building codes?
Check with your municipality. If you have access to a city sewer system, you’ll need to ask a lot of questions. Some municipalities allow them—those who are well-informed and have experience with composting toilets. In areas where there is no sewer system available and water is limited, there is usually no problem. Some building codes require, at a minimum, that the septic system be installed and then you can install your composting toilet —a ridiculous waste of money, I know. There are many individuals and organizations working to change these outdated, environmentally unsound building codes and requirements. Perhaps you can be the first in your area to help educate and get the changes made.
MIT is world-renowned for its pioneering role in sustainable technology, and boasts some of the best architecture and planning programs in the nation, and has a handful of LEED-certified buildings on its campus.
The Brain and Cognitive Science Center, completed in 2008, was awarded a LEED Silver rating; unlike the Sloan and Koch buildings that were planned from stage 1 to be green, it was an old building that was retrofitted to meet the highest standards in green design. One of the project’s highlights is the conservation of water throughout the building.
The retrofit features a collection system that recycles rainwater that can be used in various applications throughout the building and landscaping. Additionally, low-flow water fixtures were installed in all bathrooms and laboratories. The Center also took a step outside of its own surroundings to address the preservation of the larger ecosystem by installing a comprehensive storm water management system to reduce the University’s impact on the Charles River.
Since 2007, M.I.T. has undertaken three more LEED-certified building projects. Two of their buildings, the Stata Center and Simmons Hall, were green even before the LEED standard came about. And the University started a Green Building Policy in 2001, before most schools were on board with the green movement.
Thinking of the sprawling, materialistic metropolis of Las Vegas can send shivers up the spine of any environmental advocate: excessive water use, unsustainable urban planning, and unnatural buildings in the middle of a desert. Over 50 green, manicured golf courses in an area that shouldn’t have one. The ostentatious display of water flowing in monumental fountains, combined with a car-dependent population and enormous energy inefficient buildings, will leave anyone doubtful of sustainable developments in the building sector any time soon.
Yet new legislation is being considered in Las Vegas that will jumpstart the green building movement. At least we hope. As of March 2009, the debate continues over increasing tax credits for sustainable buildings throughout the state. The outcome looks good, as stimulus funding is flowing from the federal government to jumpstart the green economy. What’s more, the National Clean Energy Summit 2.0 was held in Las Vegas this past Monday, August 10th, a sign that things might be changing in this desert oasis.
Meanwhile, some developers have decided to take matters into their own hands by creating a 62- acre “eco-development.” Spearheaded by MGM, the city’s new CityCenter is expected to be complete by the end of this year and perhaps become the nation’s largest LEED-certified project. There is talk of other developers following suit.
The developers hope to reduce utility bills, decrease energy use, and foster a healthier environment for guests and employees.
The increased attention being paid to Las Vegas as a potential center for environmental leadership will help make green building mainstream. While Nevada may lack water, it certainly does not lack sun. As the National Clean Energy Summit leaders remarked, “Nevada has abundant clean energy sources such as solar, wind, geothermal, and efficiency technologies that could be developed to meet its future energy needs. The question is whether Nevadans—and all Americans—will shift to a clean energy economy.”
Vegetation blankets can be used to create green roofs, but they aren’t limited to just that.
Due to their flexibility, they are also versatile and can lie over a curved roof, a sloping surface, or just about any otherwise awkward area. They are light-weight, insulating, and low-maintenance.
Establishing and utilizing a home greenhouse is an excellent way to save money on groceries, follow a healthier and more nutritious diet, conserve on energy, and help the environment at the same time. But greenhouses don’t grow on trees – they have to be built. Not all of us have a professional builder in the family, or the budget to hire a specialist.
You already know why 
That’s right. Beginning this fall, government rebates will be available for the purchase of energy efficient household appliances, such as dishwashers, washing machines, and 
A green kitchen begins with the most eco-friendly countertop. You want something that is as durable or beautiful as Corian or granite, but measures up to the highest standards for your family’s health and the environment. Luckily, many products you thought were not “green” may actually surprise you, as more countertop companies are now making their entire manufacturing operations sustainable.
So what options are out there for the health and eco-conscious? The coolest alternatives are surfaces made from recycled materials, most notably glass. Companies like 
The key to finding 
Okay, toilet talk probably isn’t your favorite topic. When you think about the fact that the average American wastes 7,665 gallons of water each year just flushing the toilet—suddenly toilet talk raises to the level of appropriate and relevant conversation.
The Brain and Cognitive Science Center
Since 2007, M.I.T. has undertaken three more LEED-certified building projects. Two of their buildings, the 
Meanwhile, some developers have decided to take matters into their own hands by creating a 62- acre “eco-development.” Spearheaded by MGM, the city’s new 
