They need no water or care. These roses remain beautiful and would be the ideal present. They generate lifelong memories, whether the celebration is a birthday, anniversary, or wedding.

Their grace and beauty highlight any event. Hand-buying these roses is possible.  You can also purchase these roses from the top internet sellers as another choice. First, it’s best to check some high-quality, long-lasting roses with outstanding qualities.

What Are Everlasting Roses?

Real roses are known as everlasting roses. These roses are preserved very differently. This procedure leaves the petals sensitive and natural while removing water from them.

They do not fade or wither like newly bloomed roses. For a long period, they remain lovely without any maintenance.

There are several colours and designs on these roses. They look similar in their freshness from the day they were plucked.

Why Choose Everlasting Roses?

In many ways, everlasting roses overtake regular flowers. They are simple to keep, as they require neither sunlight nor water. Their extended lifetime gives them constant memory of a unique event.

They also provide an area attraction, as they seem elegant and rich. These roses maintain their charm for months, unlike fresh flowers that fade in a few days. This qualifies them as a meaningful and creative present.

Reasons Behind Choosing Everlasting Roses

●     Ideal for Birthdays

One unique event that deserves a great present is a birthday. With everlasting roses, this is the original way to express respect and affection. They are a unique gift, as they last far longer than ordinary flowers.

You have several colour options and layouts. A few come in elegant glass domes or boxes. For a long period, these roses will remind your loved one of their unique day.

●     Romantic Gifts for Anniversaries

The day of celebration on anniversaries is love and unity. Though they are an ordinary present, fresh flowers fade too quickly. In contrast, everlasting roses represent a lifetime of love.

They stay beautiful, just like your relationship. You can personalize them by choosing your partner’s favourite colour. Some arrangements also come with a message or initials. This makes the gift even more meaningful.

●     Ideal for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is mostly about showing love. Roses are the greatest symbol of romanticism out there. Fresh roses only stay a few days. Like real love, everlasting roses remain beautiful for a long time.

They are the ideal approach to express your strong emotions. Many stores offer customized designs and heart-shaped packaging. These flowers are a considerate and long-lasting Valentine’s gift.

●     An Honourable Mother’s Day Gift

Mothers should be granted the nicest presents. One excellent approach to express gratitude is with everlasting roses. They are the ideal remembrance of your affection, as they keep more than fresh flowers.

You can go for brilliant, happy colours or gentle pastels. Some arrangements even come in elegant glass cases. Your mother can keep them in her home as a beautiful decoration. These roses make Mother’s Day even more special.

●     Perfect for Weddings and Engagements

Engagements and weddings are happy events. Celebrations revolve around flowers in an ideal role. Everlasting roses give wedding décor something different. They could be wedding bouquets or table centres.

Many couples provide them as wedding favours as well. These roses stand for committed love and dedication. Unlike fresh flowers, they remain lovely long after the event is over.

●     Great for Graduation Celebrations

One of the great achievements is graduation. It signals the beginning of some other path. For grads, everlasting roses are a wonderful present. They are a continual reminder of success and hard work.

You can select a colour that is consistent with the academic concept. Certain flowers even show up with a congrats note. They are a classy and sophisticated approach to mark this turning point.

●     A Beautiful Home Decoration

Everlasting roses are not just gifts. They create rather beautiful house decorations as well. They give any space grace and charm. You can place them on a couch table, bookcase, or office desk.

Many shops are presented in fashionable glass domes or boxes. They improve the space free of cleaning. These are not dependent on sunshine or water, unlike fresh flowers. They are the ideal decorative item.

How to Take Care of Everlasting Roses?

These few guidelines can help your roses remain looking fresh for a long period. Looking after everlasting roses is simple.

• Keep them out of the sunshine to stop fading.
• They do not require moisture, which means you can avoid watering them.
• Natural oils from your hands might harm the petals, so try not to touch them too often.
• Store them dry if you want their beauty to last.

Where to Buy Everlasting Roses?

The majority of floral shops and online stores have everlasting roses. You need to search for a company that provides high-quality preserved roses.

There, you can check some high-quality, long-lasting roses and order them. Some well-known brands provide elegant arrangements with custom options.

Luxury boxes or chic glass domes also include them. The size and design determine the differences in prices. Selecting a trustworthy supplier guarantees the finest quality roses.

Conclusion

Any great event would be suitable for an everlasting rose present. They demand less care and remain longer than newly blooming flowers.

These roses are perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, graduations, and more. They stand for love, beauty, and memories lasting years.

Your loved one will discover the ideal arrangement among the various colours and styles at hand. The everlasting roses are the greatest present if you want one that will remain lovely for years.

Here, we explore eight impactful home improvement projects for a more energy-efficient home. These ideas not only improve efficiency but also elevate your living experience.

1. Revamp Your Home’s Siding for Better Insulation

Your home’s siding does more than provide curb appeal; it’s also a critical component of your home’s thermal envelope. Damaged, cracked, or outdated siding can lead to air leaks, drafts, and increased energy bills. If your siding shows signs of wear or your energy costs are climbing, it may be time for an upgrade.

Modern siding materials, like insulated vinyl or fiber cement, are designed to reduce energy loss by improving your home’s insulation. Insulated siding contains a foam layer that helps regulate indoor temperatures by reducing heat transfer. This means your heating and cooling systems don’t have to work as hard, saving energy and money.

Hiring a reputable siding installation company ensures your new siding is installed correctly and effectively. Professionals will assess your home’s needs, recommend the best materials, and complete the project to high standards, giving you peace of mind and long-term savings.

2. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Windows

Windows are one of the primary areas where energy loss occurs. Old, single-pane windows allow heat to escape during winter and seep in during summer. Eventually, these windows put extra strain on your HVAC system. Replacing them with energy-efficient double- or triple-pane windows is the best solution for reducing energy costs while improving your home’s comfort.

Windows that have low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings are ideal as they reflect heat back into your home during winter and block it during summer.

But that’s not all! Energy-efficient windows also elevate your home’s aesthetic appeal, increasing its resale value.

3. Make Way for a Smart Thermostat

A smart thermostat is a game-changer for energy efficiency. What’s so amazing about these devices? They learn your preferences and schedule and then adjust your home’s temperature accordingly. For instance, they can lower the heat when you’re asleep or at work and raise it just before you return, ensuring comfort without wasting energy.

Many smart thermostats also allow remote control via smartphone apps, so you can adjust settings even when you’re not at home. Features like energy usage reports help you monitor your consumption and find ways to cut back. This simple upgrade is affordable, easy to install, and can pay for itself in energy savings within a year.

4. Switch to Energy-Efficient Lighting

Lighting might seem like a minor energy concern, but traditional incandescent bulbs consume far more electricity than necessary. Replacing them with energy-efficient alternatives, such as LEDs or CFLs, can cut lighting energy use by up to 75%.

LEDs, in particular, last a lot longer than conventional bulbs and emit less heat, making them ideal for both energy savings and safety. Use these bulbs strategically—place them where you need light most, and consider dimmable options for versatility. Beyond the savings, energy-efficient lighting enhances the ambiance of your home, creating a more inviting atmosphere.

5. Seal Air Leaks Around Doors and Windows

You may not have noticed it, but air leaks around doors and windows are among the most common reasons for energy loss in homes. A large part of your cooling or heating escapes through these gaps, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to maintain a consistent temperature. Fortunately, sealing these leaks is a simple and cost-effective project that delivers noticeable energy savings.

You can use weatherstripping around doors and apply caulking to seal gaps in windows. Expanding foam can also be used for larger holes or cracks. These quick fixes improve insulation and reduce energy waste, ensuring a more comfortable home and lower utility bills.

6. Invest in Solar Panels

Solar panels are one of the most impactful energy-efficient upgrades you can make. They allow you to generate your own electricity, reducing reliance on traditional power sources and lowering your energy bills. Yes, the initial installation cost is high, but many government incentives, tax credits, and rebates can help offset the expense.

Modern solar panels are highly efficient and durable, with many lasting 25 years or more. They work even on cloudy days, converting sunlight into usable energy for your home. Adding battery storage lets you store excess energy for use during nighttime or power outages, further increasing efficiency. The best part? Solar panels don’t just help you save money – they also contribute to a greener planet by reducing your carbon footprint.

7. Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Household appliances account for a significant portion of your energy consumption. Replacing older, energy-draining models with ENERGY STAR-certified appliances can drastically reduce electricity usage without compromising performance.

For example, energy-efficient refrigerators maintain optimal cooling temperatures while consuming less power, while modern washing machines use advanced technology to clean clothes with minimal water and detergent. Besides saving energy, these appliances also lower water bills, making them an excellent investment for long-term savings.

8. Optimize Your Water Heating System

Water heating accounts for about 18% of a typical home’s energy use, making it a prime area for improvement. Traditional water heaters often maintain a constant supply of hot water, leading to energy waste. Upgrading to a tankless or on-demand water heater eliminates this inefficiency, as these systems heat water only when needed.

Another option is to insulate your current water heater and its pipes. This prevents heat loss, ensuring the system works efficiently.

A Smarter, Greener Home Starts Here

Enhancing your home’s energy efficiency is a rewarding journey that benefits both your wallet and the environment. These projects aren’t just about cutting costs—they’re about building a future-proof home that works smarter, not harder.

Start small, tackle one improvement at a time, and watch the savings and benefits add up. In 2025 and beyond, let your home be a shining example of how energy efficiency and modern living go hand in hand.

Moving to a new home is an exciting milestone, but it can become even more stressful if you’re dealing with a German roach infestation in your old place. These resilient pests are notorious for hitchhiking on household items, making it easy to inadvertently transport them to your new home. If you’re packing up with a roach problem on your hands, it’s crucial to take extra precautions to ensure these unwelcome guests don’t come along for the ride. Here’s how you can prevent German roaches from tagging along and make your move as smooth and pest-free as possible.

How German Roaches Travel with You

German roaches are small, light-brown insects that excel at hiding in your belongings. Their ability to fit in tight spaces and their love for dark, warm areas make them ideal for hitching a ride on your items. Here’s how they might travel with you:

• Cardboard Boxes: Roaches find cardboard boxes appealing due to their small crevices and dark interiors. They can lay eggs and travel unnoticed in these boxes.
• Furniture: Upholstered furniture, including couches and chairs, provides cozy hiding spots for roaches within the cushions or drawers.
• Clothing and Linens: Roaches can easily hide in piles of laundry, bedding, or linens, especially if they’ve been stored in closets or drawers.
• Kitchen Items: Items from the kitchen, such as toasters and microwaves, can attract roaches if they have leftover food residue.

Steps to Prevent Bringing Roaches During Your Move

To avoid bringing German roaches to your new home, follow these preventive measures:

• Inspect and Clean Thoroughly: Before packing, carefully inspect each item for signs of roaches or their eggs. Vacuum furniture, clean appliances, and wash all clothing and linens. This is crucial to ensuring you don’t transfer any pests to your new home.
• Use Plastic Containers: Instead of cardboard boxes, opt for plastic containers with tight-fitting lids. These containers are less likely to harbor pests and offer better protection against unwanted hitchhikers.
• Seal Everything Properly: Ensure all your belongings are sealed in airtight containers or bags. Roaches can squeeze through surprisingly small openings, so make sure everything is securely closed.
• Declutter: Take advantage of your move to declutter. Roaches thrive in cluttered environments, so the less you bring with you, the fewer hiding spots you’ll provide.
• Pre-Treat Your Old Home: Have a pest control professional treat your current home before you start packing. This can help eliminate any existing roach infestations and reduce the risk of transferring them to your new place.

Professional Roach Control is Key

While you can take many preventive measures on your own, expert pest control is often necessary to fully address a German roach problem. Here’s why professional services are crucial:

• Comprehensive Treatment: Professionals use specialized methods and products designed to target and eliminate roach colonies at their source. Unlike DIY methods, which might only address visible roaches, professional treatments are thorough and tackle hidden nests and eggs.
• Effective Prevention: Pest control experts don’t just eliminate existing infestations; they also implement preventive measures to ensure that roaches don’t return. This is essential for maintaining a roach-free environment in your new home.
• Expertise and Peace of Mind: With professional pest control, you benefit from their expertise in identifying and treating infestations. This provides peace of mind, knowing that your new home is protected from unwanted pests.

Start Fresh Without Roaches

A move is a great opportunity for a fresh start, especially if you’re dealing with a roach problem in your current home. By following the preventive steps outlined above and considering professional pest control, you can avoid bringing German roaches into your new home. Ensure a smooth transition by taking proactive steps to keep your new space roach-free.

For the best results, find a local pest control service that specializes in German roach treatments. They can provide the thorough inspection and treatment needed to keep your new home roach-free.

This shift towards sustainable products is simply a reflection of a broader commitment to better waste management. However, it is not enough just to want to use compostable bags; you also need to know how to use and dispose of them correctly. You can only take full advantage of the environmental benefits of these bags when you understand the specific conditions under which these bags decompose and how to integrate them effectively into your daily routines.

Image by freepik

Understanding Compostable Trash Bags

Compostable trash bags are a key player in our ongoing battle against plastic pollution. But what exactly does “compostable” mean? Simply put, these are bags designed to break down into natural elements within a compost environment, leaving no toxicity in the soil. They are typically made from materials like polylactic acid (PLA), as well as renewable resources such as corn starch and other plant-based products. This is a stark contrast to traditional plastic bags, which are made from petroleum products and can take hundreds of years to degrade, if at all.

The terms “compostable” and “biodegradable” might seem interchangeable, but there’s a notable difference. While all compostable materials are biodegradable, not all biodegradable materials are compostable. Biodegradable products break down naturally over time, but they may leave behind metal residues and other pollutants, whereas compostable products break down into nutrient-rich compost that benefits the soil.

When it comes to the journey of a compostable trash bag, from the get-go, these bags are crafted with the environment in mind. Made from plants, they consume less energy during production and, unlike conventional plastic bags, can return to the earth and enhance soil health once they decompose. You can now see that the goal is not solely to get rid of trash responsibly but also to give back to the earth and promote a healthy environment.

Read More: How Food Waste is Degrading the Environment

Proper Use of Compostable Trash Bags

When making the switch to compostable trash bags, it’s essential to choose the right kind to match your needs and ensure they perform effectively. Here’s how to select and use them correctly:

Choosing the Right Bags

Selecting the Appropriate Bag for Different Types of Waste: Compostable bags come in various strengths and sizes. For kitchen waste, which often includes food scraps, a thicker bag might be necessary to handle the moisture and weight. For lighter, dry waste like leaves or grass, thinner and possibly larger bags could be more appropriate.

Certifications and Labels: To avoid the pitfalls of greenwashing, look for specific certifications that ensure the bags meet stringent compostability standards. Certifications such as BPI (Biodegradable Products Institute) or EN13432 in Europe indicate that the bags can break down effectively in the right composting conditions. These labels also ensure that the bags do not leave harmful residues in the compost.

Matching Bags to Composting Methods: Not all compostable bags are suitable for home composting environments, which generally have lower temperatures than industrial composting facilities. Check the packaging for indications of whether the bags are suited for home or industrial composting setups. Using the wrong type can mean the bag won’t fully decompose.

Daily Usage Tips

Effective Waste Management: Use compostable trash bags primarily for organic waste, as these bags are meant to break down in a composting environment. Avoid placing recyclables or non-organic trash in these bags, as they could contaminate the compost with non-degradable items.

Types of Waste for Compostable Bags: Ideal contents for compostable bags include food scraps, yard waste, and other biodegradable materials. Avoid putting in plastics, glass, metals, or chemicals, which can hinder the composting process and potentially damage the quality of the resulting compost.

Storing and Handling Tips: Store your compostable bags in a cool, dry place to prevent them from starting to break down. High humidity or heat can compromise the integrity of the bags, making them tear easily and become difficult to handle.

Read More: Daily Eco-friendly Practices: Saving the Environment while Cutting Costs

Proper Disposal of Compostable Trash Bags

To fully realize the environmental benefits of compostable trash bags, you need to dispose of them properly. It does not matter if you are composting at home or using industrial facilities; you ought to understand the right methods and practice them.

Home Composting

Composting at home is a rewarding way to convert kitchen scraps and yard waste into nutrient-rich soil. It involves layering organic materials, like food scraps and garden trimmings, in a bin or designated area and allowing them to decompose naturally. If you would prefer to compost your compostable bags at home, here are a few steps you can follow:

• Step 1: Ensure your compostable bags are suitable for home composting. Look for labels like “Home Compostable.”
• Step 2: Add your compostable bag filled with appropriate organic waste to your compost pile. Tear or shred larger bags to speed up the decomposition process.
• Step 3: Balance your compost by adding equal parts of greens (vegetable scraps, coffee grounds) and browns (dry leaves, branches).
• Step 4: Turn your compost regularly to aerate it, which helps to accelerate the breakdown process.

When it comes to home composting, a few common missteps can impede the process. Overloading the compost pile with too many compostable bags or allowing the compost to become too wet are particularly troublesome. To maintain an efficient composting process, it’s important to avoid overfilling the pile and to balance the moisture level. This can be achieved by carefully adding just enough water or dry materials as necessary to keep the compost moist but not saturated.

Industrial Composting

Industrial composting facilities are the best option for large volumes of waste or materials that need high temperatures to decompose. Home composting systems can’t reach these temperatures, so it’s essential to take such compostable products to industrial facilities. Utilizing these specialized services not only aligns with the technical needs of waste management but also supports broader environmental goals.

As we embrace innovation and change in our quest for sustainability, it is vital to remember the importance of ethical and legal responsibility. By seeking out and supporting local composting services that accept compostable bags, we not only contribute positively to our community’s sustainability but also adhere to important guidelines. This thoughtful approach ensures that our efforts to protect the environment are both effective and responsible.

Research Local Options: Using online directories which include websites like BioPak’s Compost Connect, Green Paper Products’ Find A Composter, and CompostNow can help you locate commercial composters in your area. You can also check your city or county website for information on composting programs and drop-off locations.

Verify Acceptance of Compostable Bags: Contact the service by calling or emailing the composting service to confirm they accept compostable bags and inquire about any specific requirements or restrictions. Also, look for certification labels like “Certified Compostable” or “BPI Certified” on the bags. These labels indicate that the bags meet specific standards for breaking down in commercial composting facilities.

Follow Community Guidelines: Follow the service’s instructions on sorting compostable materials. Some facilities may require removing labels or stickers from bags. You must adhere to the collection schedule or drop-off times designated by the service. Take note of materials that are not accepted in compostable bags, such as bioplastics, non-compostable packaging, or animal products.

Understand the Importance of Compliance: Improper disposal of compostable bags (e.g., in regular trash) can negate their environmental benefits as they may not break down properly in landfills. When you follow guidelines, you ensure that the composting facility can operate efficiently and produce high-quality compost.

Waste Management Services

Although compostable bags are designed to break down into non-toxic components, not all waste management services accept them in regular composting or yard waste collection. For this reason, it is necessary to collaborate with your local waste management services to ensure that your compostable bags are disposed of properly. Here is how you can work effectively with them:

• Engage with your local waste management providers to understand their policies on compostable bags and how they should be disposed of.
• Remember, waste management policies can change, so it is a good idea to stay updated. Endeavor to keep in touch with your waste management authorities to learn any new practices or changes in the recycling or composting guidelines.
• Ensure that bins meant for compostable waste are clearly labeled to avoid contamination with non-compostable waste. This will ensure that your compostable bags go where they are supposed to.
• Keep track of collection schedules for your compostable waste. This not only helps you manage your waste more effectively but also ensures that compostable materials are handled on time.

Read More: The road to a sustainable economy

Furthermore, most businesses have a solid impact on waste management practices, not just within their operations but also in their broader community. Therefore, it will be easy for a business that promotes responsible disposal practices to influence its customers and other businesses to follow suit.

Any business can set up their own composting solutions or partner with local facilities to manage waste. This can be particularly effective in industries like food service or retail, where a lot of compostable waste is generated.

Benefits of Proper Disposal of Compostable Trash Bags

When we think about the impact of properly disposing of compostable trash bags, we should consider the long-term effects we want to see across our communities and ecosystems, including its environmental, economic, and social benefits.

Environmental Benefits

Reducing Landfill Waste and Greenhouse Gas Emissions: By properly disposing of compostable trash bags, we divert waste from landfills where organic matter would otherwise decompose and release methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

Supporting a Circular Economy: Proper disposal of these bags, particularly through composting, turns waste back into valuable resources. The resulting compost can enrich soil, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers and fostering healthier plant growth.

Widespread Environmental Impact: Imagine if everyone adopted compostable products. This widespread change would drastically reduce our ecological footprint, demonstrating a powerful commitment to preserving our planet.

Economic and Social Benefits

Job Creation: The shift towards composting and responsible waste management is creating a variety of new jobs, from waste collection and processing to education and technology development.

Boosting Local Economies: Investing in eco-friendly products encourages the growth of local businesses focused on green practices. This not only helps the environment but also stimulates local economies, creating a vibrant, supportive community focused on sustainable development.

Getting it right with compostable trash bags is a combination of several factors which include choosing the best bags suitable for your specific needs, ensuring they are suitable for your composting method, and disposing of them in the right environment. By doing these we can drastically reduce landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions. These practices not only support a circular economy by turning waste into valuable resources but also encourage healthier soil and plant growth.

Furthermore, each of us, whether as private individuals or business owners, is encouraged to participate in environmental sustainability efforts actively. This can be achieved by incorporating compostable products into our daily routines and operational practices. By making this switch, we not only reduce our ecological footprint but also support the market for sustainable goods.

However, our commitment must not end at the point of purchase. We must also be intentional and diligent about properly disposing of these products. Proper disposal ensures that compostable items are able to break down effectively, returning nutrients to the soil and reducing waste in our landfills. By adopting and advocating for these practices, we can make a significant, positive impact on our environment.

If you’re in the market for a new home and conscious of being environmentally friendly, you may consider looking specifically for a green home. Green homes are designed to be sustainable through their energy usage, building materials, or both. But how do you know whether a home is considered to be green?

There’s already plenty of detail that goes into finding the perfect home, but there are particular aspects to which you may want to pay close attention. Sources of renewable energy and LEED, or Energy Star certification, are two important factors to keep an eye on. Here is a guide to beginning your search for a green home:

Where does the energy come from?

The first consideration and tell-tale sign of a green home is a renewable energy system. However, there are several different sources of green energy that your potential new home may have. Three popular options include solar panels, wind turbines, and geothermal heating and cooling. Each source of energy has its own unique benefits and they all can help you save money on utility bills.

When searching for houses for sale, a description that includes one of these renewable options is a good sign that you may have found a green home. Make sure to do the proper research when viewing homes with these systems, and ask plenty of questions, such as: how old is the system? And how much energy does it produce annually? Going into home buying talks with background knowledge on the various systems will help you as well.

Solar 

Solar panels are perhaps the most popular source of renewable energy for residential homes—and for good reason. There are numerous benefits to going solar at home. Since energy from the sun is free, you can drastically reduce the cost of your energy bills. They require little maintenance, and if they produce enough energy, you may be able to become completely independent of energy companies. One thing to consider, however, when buying the home is whether or not the previous owner purchased the solar panels or is leasing them from a company. If the panels are a lease, you’ll have to work out a way to get the lease transferred into your name.

Wind Turbines 

The benefits of wind power are nearly the same as those from solar panels—mainly reduced energy costs and energy independence. However, it is important to understand that wind turbines on a residential property may require more annual maintenance than a solar panel. In order to properly operate a wind farm at your home, you’ll need to understand how to adjust the system, replace parts, and check for damage. But do not fear if this seems like too much work. In many cases you should be able to outsource the maintenance to the installer of the system.

Geothermal Heat Pumps

While solar and wind energy are somewhat dependent on the weather, geothermal energy is a viable option for any climate. Geothermal heat pumps produce energy by capturing and exchanging heat from below the Earth’s surface, where temperatures are relatively stable. This makes geothermal heat pumps easy to use in even the most extreme climates, and particularly useful in those that are cold. Another added bonus of geothermal heat pumps is that the underground loops that capture the heat can last up to 50 years, compared to 20-25 years for wind and solar.

Is the home certified as energy efficient?

There are two major certification programs that recognize energy efficiency in residential homes—Energy Star and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). A certification from either program means the home meets the required standards for energy efficiency, and therefore, is more environmentally-friendly than most other homes on the market. However, this does not mean that the home utilizes renewable energy, per se. Instead, it suggests that the home uses systems and products that perform better and require less energy, therefore lowering energy demand and air pollution.

Certification from either program is a good sign that the home you’re buying is considered green. It’s also a sign that you may be able to save additional money on the home in the long run. Energy efficiency can lead to spending less on utility bills on a yearly basis, and should you choose to resell the home, your home value could be thousands of dollars higher than comparative homes without certification.

Here is a breakdown of the criteria that help each program determine their certifications:

Energy Star

According to Energy Star, “These homes are at least 15% more energy efficient than homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC), and include additional energy-saving features that typically make them 20–30% more efficient than standard homes.” The energy-efficient features that they consider are those that can help reduce energy consumption and improve the overall environment within the home.

One example is effective insulation and windows which can help to lock in heat during the winter, and cool air during the summer, requiring less usage of HVAC systems. Another example is efficient duct systems that can help improve air quality within your home. Energy Star also certifies appliances such as lighting fixtures, refrigerators, and washing machines, as well as others. The inclusion of a variety of these aspects within a home are important factors to acquire certification.

LEED 

Whereas Energy Star certification is primarily based on the energy performance of the home relative to others, the LEED certification process is based on the design of the home. This means that there is a heavy importance placed on the sustainability of the construction and design procedures. The process is based on a rating score, which offers various levels of certification. The minimum rating will get you a standard certification, while the highest level will get you platinum, with silver and gold levels in between.

There are several credit categories for LEED certification, such as environmentally-friendly building materials, water efficiency, air quality, and others. It’s also important that the building site itself is in compliance with environmental regulations, maintains a site boundary, and shares energy and water usage data. So when looking for a green home, inquire if the construction project was LEED certified.

If you’re in the hunt for a new house and are specifically interested in a property that is environmentally friendly, there are several factors to consider that may qualify it as a green home. While you may take notice of the landscape architecture and nature surrounding the home that make it look green, there is perhaps no greater consideration than that placed on the home’s energy usage. When browsing a potential home, look out for sources of renewable energy and/or certification of energy-efficiency, which are integral aspects of a green home.

More and more countries are cracking down on tire companies and forcing them to change their supply chains to conform to more environmentally friendly processes. Companies, like Giti Tire Group, have been at the forefront of the new wave of tire manufacturing, dominating the global market with innovative products.

China and Europe have completely reinvented the tire industry to be much more sustainable. Here’s how companies can follow their example and move to more environmentally responsible, green technologies that combat the growing air pollution issues.

Extreme Regulations

The biggest factor in combating air pollution has been strict regulations. China has recently followed suit with the United States and Europe when it comes to Clean Air regulation. Putting an increased focus on the overall health of citizens over the unbridled free enterprise of capitalism has been an increasing trend as air quality continually decreases due to pollution, the majority of which comes from automobiles and manufacturing.

Regulations have been enacted restricting the amount of air pollution allowed in the manufacturing process, the amount of wasteful materials used in manufacturing tires, and how tires need to contribute to sustainable vehicles. While these regulations initially created a massive downturn in the manufacturing business, eventually the innovation required to stay afloat led to a renewed growth in green tire manufacturers over older, less eco-friendly methods of manufacturing.

Nitrogen

One easy step that more and more consumers are taking is the use of nitrogen to fill tires. Because nitrogen molecules are larger, they don’t leak out of tires nearly as rapidly. The fully inflated tires help fuel economy and reduce the need for constantly reproducing replacement tires. Nitrogen also lacks the moisture that oxygen contains. This means that the tires will not rust, corrode, or rot as quickly, meaning that the tires will see an increased life expectancy.

Clean Energy

The manufacturing process itself has begun to rely less on fossil fuels and more on clean energy to power plants. Many tire manufacturers have switched to wind turbines, hydroelectric power, and solar power to ensure a green manufacturing process. There are also locally sourced alternative energies that can be used in combination to reduce waste.

Recyclable Materials

At the end of their life, most tires go to waste in junkyards. Several manufacturing companies have endeavored to reduce this by backing recycling programs and using recyclable materials. These newer, greener materials can be used to create sports fields, playground turf, soundproof buildings and studios, and more. The best programs reuse 100% of the materials from the tires, leaving absolutely no waste.

Each individual tire tends to use somewhere between 5 to 10 gallons of petroleum oil. The industry really needs to cut back on this wasteful use of a finite resource, and several companies have made great headway over the last decade.

One of the ways to do this is using sustainable and plant based materials. In lieu of the petroleum, a lot of companies have begun using sunflower and corn oils in their process. Floral latex products can also reduce dependency upon rubber. Orange oil has become increasingly popular.

Reforestation

One of the ways air pollution is reduced and clean air is created is with trees. They take in carbon dioxide and produce oxygen. Tire manufacturers use a lot of rubber trees in their production. This deforestation removes these natural purifiers and creates more smog. Many companies have begun getting involved in reforestation efforts. They conduct agricultural research in the rubber tree forests and plant more trees than they cut down in their manufacturing process. This ensures long-term sustainability of these natural forests and reduces the environmental impact the tire industry creates.

Rolling Resistance

Friction is a huge part of how cars work. When tires roll, they create friction with the ground. This can be useful in bad weather, helping cars to stay under your control during flash floods and ice patches, but for most of the year, it only serves to make your engine work harder.

Creating tires with a reduced rolling resistance improves the fuel efficiency of cars, reducing the emissions rates significantly while also increasing fuel efficiency.

A lot of manufacturers have begun using Silica in their tires instead of rubber. This reduces deforestation by requiring fewer rubber trees in production. Silica also reduces the rolling resistance of tires.

Consumer Conscientiousness

There are also ways that consumers can help partner with manufacturers to create a green tire industry. Here are some of the ways you can help.

Maintain your tire pressure. Tires without enough pressure have increased rolling resistance, which means your engine is working harder and thereby producing more emissions and not maintaining fuel efficiency. Fill your tires with nitrogen as soon as your car indicates they’re low and regularly check the PSI to ensure maximum efficiency.

Avoid city streets. The highways are the most fuel-efficient way to travel. With less obstacles and stops to worry about, your engine doesn’t have to constantly burn extra fuel to restart from a stopped point.

Avoid traffic. This one will reduce your stress levels. It also helps the environment. Traffic jams will put a lot of stress on your car’s engine and completely eliminate any fuel efficiency. Take alternative routes whenever possible, or ty to adjust your schedule around major congestions.

Turn your car off when you’re not driving. A lot of us like to idle when we’re waiting. If you’re picking someone up and they’re still inside, or going shopping with someone but want to wait in the car, don’t run your engine. It burns a lot of extra fuel and is constantly emitting pollution into the air and there’s no reason for it. Go inside with them when they shop and just wait on a bench or chair somewhere instead. Turn the engine off and roll down the windows for the few short minutes it will take for them to get ready and meet you outside.

Conclusion

The tire industry has made some great moves towards reducing their carbon footprint. Thanks to stricter regulations across the globe, they have been forced to innovate if they want to remain in business.

With all the talk of global warming and what we are doing to the environment in our pursuit of creature comforts, it’s time to take a look at new ways to go green in heating and cooling our homes. Perhaps one of the best-kept secrets has been something called a Mechanical Ventilation and Heat Recovery (MVHR) system, which you may be as yet unfamiliar with. If you are serious about making less of an impact on the environment, an MVHR unit should be a starting point. Here are a few reasons why.

Reduction in Energy Consumption

Most home and business owners look at the cost of heating or cooling their homes without giving a second thought to why those costs are so high. Their priority is in reducing their monthly bills without understanding that they are paying high costs simply because of the amount of energy it takes to produce heat in the winter or to remove heat from the building during the hot months of summer.

Now it’s time to look at all that energy being produced for climate control and you will understand just how detrimental that is to the environment. Choosing the right MVHR can help to reduce your energy costs by as much as 25% and that will obviously reduce the amount of energy expended for climate control. Imagine reducing your need for fossil fuels by 25%. That’s huge in terms of conservation!

Reduction in Chemical Waste

If you were to check out the various types of heat recovery units on sites like https://www.bpcventilation.com/choosing-a-mvhr-unit, you’d begin to understand just how a MVHR can help to reduce the quantities of chemicals being filtered back into our homes. Consider all the millions of people who suffer from allergies or asthma and then look at the popular medications formulated for those sufferers.

All those medications are chemical compounds which in one way or another end up going down the drain. Whether it is in the home or at the pharmaceutical companies, a large amount of waste is literally flushed down drains. MVHR units filter the air and as a result, many consumers will have a lesser dependence on those medications they had previously relied on. This may not seem like a huge issue to you, but just ask an environmentalist the harm we are doing to the delicate balance of the ecosphere with our reliance on chemicals to get through our day-to-day lives.

Food for Thought

In the end, what you may not have thought of is that by cutting the cost of climate control you will also have more money to spend on other green initiatives for your home or place of business. Perhaps you have been looking to convert to a more cost-effective furnace. Maybe you would like a new hybrid vehicle but can’t afford the high cost of payments. Now add up 25% of your monthly energy bills and multiply that figure times 12 months.

That will add up to a tidy sum you could be spending on other ways to aid the environment. Using heat recovery in the home or office can be the beginning of what you can do to benefit Mother Earth in the long term. Who would have thought that such a simple solution could go such a long way towards going green?

Whether you’ve dreamed of helping wild animals since you were a child or you’ve come upon your calling later in life, there’s good news — the world needs wildlife management specialists and conservationists. If you’ve had a previous career, the industry can use professionals with skills in business, education, public relations, law, engineering, accounting and more.

However, while it’s easy to have a passion for wildlife, it’s not so simple to turn that passion into a career. Doing so requires the right education, the right experience and some knowledge of the conservation job market. Here’s what you need to know to get started.

Choose a Career Path

Just like any other field, there are many career paths you can take as a wildlife management professional. Before you choose a career path, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the field and find out what your options are.

To learn more about the field, consider volunteering through organizations like The Wildlife Society, the Student Conservation Association or the National Science Foundation’s Research Experiences for Undergraduates program. Become a citizen scientist. Study the conservation job market to learn about positions in the field, and ask yourself how excited you would be to perform these tasks day in and day out. Consider whether you would like to work in the university environment, teaching and doing research, or whether you’re more interested in other aspects of the field, such as community outreach, organizational administration, budgeting or policy making. Use your volunteer experiences as a chance to network and talk to mentors about your options.

Get Educated

As you learn more about the conservation and wildlife management field and the positions available to you, you’ll learn about the academic credentials you might need to do the work you aspire to. Many positions require a master’s or doctorate degree in biology or a related field, but that’s not true across the board. If you want to do research or work in an academic setting, you might need at least a master’s, if not a Ph.D., but other positions might require only a bachelor’s degree or even just a certificate in wildlife management.

Let’s say, for example, that you have a background in accounting. You could work for a wildlife management organization, helping them operate on a limited budget. You could earn a wildlife management certificate online to get current on the needs of the industry, but you’d be relying mostly on your previous training as an accountant to land and perform the job.

Not sure what credentials you need? Pay close attention to the degree qualifications listed in job postings you’re interested in. Ask others working in the field, especially those working in positions that appeal to you, what academic and other credentials they hold that helped them get there. Some may have advanced degrees; others may have extensive field experience; many will have both.

Get Experience

To get your first wildlife management job, you need to get experience. It can be tough to get experience because it usually involves volunteering or working at unpaid internships. There’s not a lot of money in conservation, and wildlife management organizations typically can’t afford to pay interns. If you’re starting out in the field with no experience, you’re probably not going to find a paid position anyway. This means you’ll have to find some other way to support yourself while gaining experience.

Many aspiring wildlife management professionals use their time as students to volunteer for expeditions, work with faculty mentors and participate in internships as much as possible to gain valuable experience. Create opportunities for yourself. Many aspiring professionals do this by blogging about their career progression and experiences in the field; attending workshops, events, lectures and conferences; networking and asking new contacts for introductions and working to maintain a positive reputation.

Land Your First Job

Your first job in wildlife management may well be the hardest to get, but it’s an essential first step toward the career you want. Once you have educational qualifications, experience and contacts, the rest is just a matter of learning to interview well and keeping your fingers crossed. Remember to keep networking, keep volunteering and keep educating yourself on advances in the field, no matter how discouraged you get. Don’t give up; you’ll get that first job eventually.

Breaking into the wildlife management field can be a great way to make a difference in the world, whether you want to travel to exotic locations for work, spend your days in a lab or pursue a role in a more traditional office setting. With the right credentials and experience, doors will open for you — you just have to be ready to enter them.

Paul Nicklen, a wildlife photographer, and his team from the Sea Legacy recently posted a heartbreaking video of a starving polar bear. The animal was weak and going through the garbage on the iceless land. He was barely alive and when he couldn’t find anything in the Inuit trashcans, the bear collapsed.

This video was made in Canada’s Buffin Islands, where it’s illegal to feed the white polar bears. Although, doing it anyway wouldn’t make any difference since the animal was already in his dying minutes. All Nickel and his team could do was to film everything to the very end and show to the world the state our environment.

Polar bears and their suffering are one of the many faces of climate changes. These animals live in the Arctic regions and warming temperatures had this excruciating impact on their habitats and numbers. The National Snow and Ice Data Centre has recorded constant declines of sea ice coverage and, according to the predictions, it will only get worse.

The effects of global warming are experienced all over the world. Catastrophic weather conditions have taken many human and animal lives, as well as endangered many others by destroying homes and land. There are still things we can all do to help the planet and life on it. It may seem small and insignificant, but it will be beneficial for the long run. The more people start changing their habits, the sooner the environment will start recovering.

Our homes are the perfect places to begin the fight for the survival of all life on Earth. On the other hand, living in the sustainable and energy efficient home will have immediate benefits for the homeowner. Here is some advice how to be a part of the continually growing movement to save the world – starting from your home.

Solar panels

Solar panels provide clean and renewable energy. They harvest the sun power and turn it into electricity for your home. Although expensive at the beginning, the long-term benefits include lower energy bills and a better environment. Before installing them, make sure that you choose an appropriate location. This is important because you want to get the maximum exposure for more energy.

If you are worried about the installation cost, many governments give incentives to their citizens who want to go green. This support is monetary and includes tax concessions, as well as funding from the grants. Many countries even have programmes intended to educate the population on the use of solar energy and its benefits. This is a great way to share knowledge and provide expert help to those still unacquainted with this type of technology.

Geothermal energy

Geothermal energy is more complex and expensive due to the process of extracting it. Namely, this is the energy directly coming from inside the Earth. However, this is not something unheard of. People used geothermal energy for hot water and heating since the ancient Rome. Due to the scientific advancements in this area, the range of geothermal sources has expanded.

This is also another eco-friendly solution supported by the governments and institutions. At first, using geothermal energy was expensive and only those determined enough chose it. Since the number of consumers was nearly enough to make any change, this became one of the government-assisted industries. Today, it costs less than before and its users are growing by the day.

Good insulation

Every home consists of walls, windows and doors. But the type and construction is a distinguishable element. This means that if insulation is not properly installed, then your home will be leaking energy out. Namely, when it’s cold, the heat will escape out, and when it’s warm, you won’t be able to cool the house. Consequently, you will use less energy for heating and air-conditioning.

In addition, checking sealants on the windows and doors will do the trick. However, if you think to replace them, choose energy efficient windows. These carry a label “Energy Star” and are the newest among the home furnishing products. These measures will help you downsize the use of energy, and emitting gases into the atmosphere like CFCs, HCFCs and HFCs which deplete the ozone layer.

Recycle

Even the simplest of things like everyday shopping can help the environment. By reducing, reusing and recycling you can become the part of the much-extended global community of recyclers. These three principles of responsible behaviour will help to eliminate toxic and damaging components. Also, hopefully, this will decrease the size of landfills and garbage in the oceans, rivers and land.

You can be a part of this if you reuse the materials such as wood. Many furniture companies today abide by sustainable manufacturing and make pieces out of the recycled materials. Similarly, more and more investors opt for the green home building. They use recycled glass, tiles, plastic and reclaimed lumber in their business.

Energy efficient devices

Energy efficient devices are today widely available. They are popular among the consumers due to its properties to use less energy for the same operations as ordinary devices. Less energy means lower bills and decreased impact on the warming of the atmosphere.

Just like the abovementioned windows, these devices will also wear an “Energy Star” label. Currently, the devices are still labelled from G (lowest efficiency) to A+++ (highest efficiency). Some states are working on the simpler system, like European Commission which adopted Energy Labelling Regulation in July 2017. Some devices go as far as to have eco-friendly functions, for example, to save water during operation.

Sustainable building materials

Sustainable building materials include a myriad of products which can have a positive effect on the modern construction practices. With eco-friendly products, construction companies are able to build green homes and influence the real estate market. This way, the environment is spared from the first foundation to the last executed works.

Besides recycled and reclaimed materials, natural products like bamboo are also present in the construction. This creates a resource-efficient process which will help protect the future occupants’ health, reduce waste and prevent environmental degradation. By doing this, the planet has an opportunity to replenish its forests, recuperate and normalize weather conditions.

Rainwater harvesting

If you have a garden, then you probably use a lot of water for irrigation. This often creates the water shortage in the summer period and endangers the ecosystems depending on the watercourse levels. Installing a rainwater harvesting system will resolve this issue. Water collected in this manner is perfect for gardening purposes. People who use this solution reported as much as 50% reduction of their water bills.

Rainwater harvesting is an excellent way to create a backup supply system. During the water shortages or major repairs, you can use this system for laundry, dishes, toilets and other purposes. Another plus side is that this practice will save the groundwater which is in decline.

Eco-friendly lighting

Indoor LED lights save energy and last longer than classic light bulbs. Although they cost more than the ordinary lights, the benefits of using them are significant. Firstly, they will lower the consumption of electricity and consequently the bill. Secondly, they will save you the money you’d spend on numerous classic bulbs which easily break.

They are also great as outside lights, especially when they have to stay on all night. They come in all sizes and strengths, as well as lumens. This technology is constantly advancing and the variety of LED lights is increasing rapidly.

Final thoughts

We reap what we sow. For generations, we have exploited the natural resources of our planet, destroyed its waters decimated its forests and bring extinction to many animal species. This is our home above all homes and we shouldn’t stand by while it’s suffering. Starting from something as simple as solar panels or rainwater harvesting can make the difference.

Importantly, it can also serve as an example to others and inspire them to do the same. Just like polar bears, other species are in imminent danger. One of them being humans.

In 2010, UN published a report stressing the significant relationship between the vegan diet and saving the world. This report prepared by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) said: “Impacts from agriculture are expected to increase substantially due to population growth increasing consumption of animal products. Unlike fossil fuels, it is difficult to look for alternatives: people have to eat. A substantial reduction of impacts would only be possible with a substantial worldwide diet change, away from animal products.”

Since then, various studies were published promoting a vegan way of life as means to save the planet, concentrating on the results and predictions by the leading researchers and respected institutions. These findings emphasize the importance vegan diet can have on the global hunger issues, poverty and climate changes.

Marco Springmann from Oxford University highlighted in 2016 that adopting vegan habits would provide potential to greatly improve the situation in health, environmental and economic areas. According to the research published in PNAS, if the majority of the world is to turn to vegan and vegetarian diets it could save millions of lives and US dollars on the global scale.

Among other things, this study showed that if the world were at the lowest level of meat and dairy consumption meaning that majority of the population is on the vegan diet, it would save 8 million lives by 2050. In addition, gas emissions will reduce by 70%, while healthcare system would save up to a trillion US dollars annually, and most importantly, the global mortality rate will go down by 6-10%.

Although there have been different studies from respected environmental, scientific and economic institution, the conclusions and recommendations are always the same. They are pointing to the several behavioural changes, as well as lifestyle adjustments, which can help save the world and millions of lives in the next three decades.

1.    Health benefits are numerous

Meat, milk and eggs all contain nutrients important for the development of the human body. However, these foods contain saturated fat, which is a known cause for hearth and blood vessel problems. World Health Organization also recommends the use of processed meat since it’s one of the known causes of cancer.

On the other hand, researchers proved that vegan diet lowers the blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which makes it an excellent preventive measure against type 2 diabetes and some forms of cancers. Well-planned dietary habits are important, but if you do it with healthy ingredients, the benefits to your health are enormous.

Veganism is an ideal manner to get to know the foods you eat and be more careful what ingredients you use. Even vegan food can impair your wellbeing if you don’t think before you eat and carefully combine the ingredients into a healthy diet.

2.    It will prevent the global clean water shortage

Fresh and clean water are one of the features of modern life. Nevertheless, although we live in the 21^st century, the conditions in some countries are more than alarming. Millions of people get sick or die from unsafe water consumption. Meat and dairy industry uses a lot of fresh water, around 70% to be precise with other agricultural activities.

Namely, one cow consumes around 100 gallons or 380 litres of water per day in the summer months in the USA alone. This mostly includes the water needed to grow the food for one cow used for milk. Meat-eaters use 1,100 gallons or 5,000 litres per day that is high compared to the 1,000 – 2,000 litres used by vegetarians and vegans.

Many scientists agree that the future doesn’t look bright for the life on earth if the world doesn’t adopt dietary habits, which will preserve the resources. Anders Berntell, the International Water Institute’s director in 2004 stressed that: “The world’s future water supply is a problem that’s …  greater than we’ve begun to realize. We have to reduce the amount of water we devote to growing food. The world is simply running out of the water.”

Since then, the number of vegans in the world has increased significantly, and veganism is one of the fastest growing movements in the world. The studies show that China, United Arab Emirates and Australia are three fastest growing vegan markets. While largest vegan population lives in Israel 5%, Sweden 4% and Japan 2.7%. The United States, UK, Germany and Italy have fewer than 2% of registered vegans.

3.    Vegan diet lowers energy consumption

Energy consumption is one of the main reasons for global warming and climate changes. This issue is also very often addressed and many countries are adopting energy-saving measures. However, raising livestock, meat and dairy industries can’t be just stopped. People have to be well aware of the consequences they have on the environment, but the solution will certainly won’t be to everybody’s liking.

Cornell study results showed that production of the animal-based protein uses eight times more fossil-fuel energy than it’s needed for the plant-based one. Another factor contributing to the high-energy consumption is raising animals, feeding them, turning them into meat products, storage of those produces and shipment.

4.    The soil will recover

We already presented the water issues in the world due to the livestock rising. The same almost applies to the soil. The matter of fact is that in order to build habitats for livestock and other animals, farmers and companies need to prepare the soil. This means deforestation, which is a very serious and damaging process for the overall environment. This method clears trees to create vast space where livestock can walk and run.

Meanwhile, the vitamins and minerals we intake through vegetables come from the soil itself. Raising animals can hinder those important attributes and erode the soil. On the other hand, raising different plants will revive the soil and keep it fertile for land cultivation.

It is a known fact that regular crop growing, using appropriate connectors and fittings for irrigation to avoid the loss of water, treating plants with organic fertilizers and adequate farming will preserve the soil. Consequently, vegan diet would preserve the natural stability and normal characteristic s of the soil, able to produce plants for centuries.

5.    It will lower the gas emissions

It is a known fact that cows produce methane and nitrous oxide, both very influential compounds on the climate change. UN concluded in its report that animal agriculture contributes to this problem in great amount, thus helping the persistent greenhouse effect. More precisely, 1.5 billion cattle in the world are responsible for up to 18% of the polluting gases. Looked this way, it is more environmentally damaging to raise a cow than to drive a car, although both should be reduced and managed.

Livestock produces more than two-thirds of the world’s emissions of ammonia, which is the main culprit for those acid rains decimating the soil. Manure gases are also dangerous to human health. There have been numerous cases when people working with manure storage facilities experience asphyxia or, unfortunately, succumbed to its consequences.

In conclusion

All these facts don’t depict animals as the guilty party but call for the responsible livestock rising and agricultural practices. Planet Earth and all life on it are our responsibility and duty for the future generations of humans, animals and plants.

We must all be aware that resources are scarce and that so many people in this world are famished, cold, without the proper medical care, basic living conditions and far from the technological advancements. Choosing the modest and conscientious lifestyle not only shows we are good people but that there is still hope for the better life for everyone and all.