Mangrove Tour Part 3

Mangrove Tour Part 1

Angat Dam Still below Critical

The rainy season is to end very soon, but barely any much water was added to the reservoir.

As of 6 days ago, the water level was at 175 meters above sea level, 5 meters below the critical of 180. What was found surprising was that the rainy season, which starts July until August, has not been sufficient in filling up the dam accordingly.

The continued growth of Metro Manila means water requirements will keep on increasing. The current 3 dams will not be sufficient in supplying the city at its growth.

Makati, Fort Bonifacio, all the way to Laguna, are enjoying unprecedented growth in construction, with new buildings being put up non-stop.Unless something is done to ensure that people use their water wisely. We need to expect water rationing to take effect not too long from now.

Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort A Forefront of Green

Daluyon Beach and Mountain Resort is one of the most unique experience in hotel culture, as it imbibes keeping 5 star like quality resort, and eco-minded design and maintenance.

What is also found to be unique is how the resort has restricted itself with a specific number of rooms, to maintain serenity and comfort for its guests accordingly.

This hotel has used local materials in its infrastructure, without compromising comfort, it has also taken proactive steps in water and energy conservation, by having one of the most well insulated design for cooling for  rooms.

Daluyon has also worked together with Manhattan Green Solutions in reducing water usage by first testing Oxygenics Showerheads with its staff housing, ensuring that water consumption can be brought down substantially. Once enough data has been independently gathered on usage comfort and reduction on water consumption, all the rooms will be fitted with this premium product accordingly.

For more information on Manhattan Green Solutions, please visit http://mgs.jw-world.com

For more information on Daluyon Beach and Mountain resort, please visit http://www.daluyonresort.com/

How did Global Warming Cause Ondoy?

One of the most intriguing questions that has ever been brought up was "if we are suffering from Global Warming, why did Typhoon Ondoy happen?"

It seems to be a valid question, especially if global warming essentially paints a picture of drought in our minds. What is most important to understand is that global warming leads to extreme climate changes.

Climate change is a result of change in average temperature. Every degree of temperature increase leads to major changes in how our weather performs, changing rain patterns, annual rainfall, and others.

As the temperature gets hotter, the planet's natural cooling system is to evaporate as much water, which then falls  accordingly. Movement of water from the ocean to the sky, or even heat from the ground, creates wind force. When this wind force is strong enough, we have a typhoon.

When there is extraordinarily higher amount of heat, there is an expected larger volume of evaporation accordingly, which means, more rains.

While rains are good, a balanced amount of rain spread over a period of time ensures environmental sustainability.

What has occurred is an over increase of water evaporation, which has also increased wind pressure, thus, this has brought an amazing amount of rain in a very short span of time. This rain was so overwhelming that the entire metropolis could not handle the volume brought on.

And it is not only in the Philippines where the devastation of flood has come in. India, Pakistan, and many other countries have already presented major flooding brought by large rain volume on a short span of time. This was not anticipated, for the change in overall climate meant a redesign of how cities will have to flow.

If the climate gets even warmer, we will have to rethink our geography, and might have to look at a map in a completely new light in the future.

What is in your Cleaning Agents?

While we do talk about how to make use of energy and water more efficiently, cleaning agents need to be looked upon as well. Cleaning agents such as detergents and similar may contain chemicals that are toxic to the environment.

Products using bleach or chlorine are some of the biggest environmental culprits. These products, when used, will have to be flushed out of the system to the environment. When it comes to the corresponding effect, it can be very devastating.

Other products that can damage the environment found in household cleaners are some strong solvents, muriatic acids, and others. Some of them are actually carcinogenic!

Therefore, it is imperative that a greener home uses green cleaning products as well. Try to look for plant based cleaners, or use some traditional cleaners from mother nature, as we have to consider our indoor home as an environment as well. What is bad for the environment, is bad for those inhabiting accordingly.

Top 5 Things You Need To Know About Solar Water Heaters

Solar water heaters can really bring down the cost of hot water for many residential and facilities, but unless the following concepts are thought about, the investment will be wasted away. Before actually installing a Solar Water Heater, consider the following points.

1. How much water do you really need to heat up? - Try to get a consumption report of your showerheads to understand the capacity requirements. Do this by using a pail and stopwatch, then estimate average showertime, and get total consumption accordingly. Regular shower heads use 4.5 gallons per minute, Eco Friendly showerheads use 1.5 gallons per minute. Investing in even a high end eco showerhead is still a lot cheaper than buying a very big solar water heater.

2. What direction is your solar water heater facing? - Get the right angle and direction. North facing is best to get sun from its axis east to west. This will maximize heating time for water.

3. Flat collector panel or evacuated tubes? - Evacuated tubes are cheaper but they are not designed for the local climate. On hot weathers, these pipes burst, causing great inefficiency. You will not notice this problem as your back up electric water heater will run instead. This means, lots of money wasted on electricity that you were trying to save.

4. How's the weather? - Good brand solar water heaters can still get heat from a cloudy day. Invest a little more for a good brand and you will better appreciate your returns.

5. Any other use for hot water? - Do not forget to get a complete idea on where else you can use hot water. A pre heated water will be faster to boil for cooking as well, this point should not be discounted.

From Manhattan Green Solutions - On Oxygenics and Bio Ball

The current water crisis has been a result not only of great population growth in the Metro and climate change, but also of inefficient use of water.

No one has ever considered auditing their own shower facility, which is actually one of the largest, if not the largest percentage of water consumption in any hotel, gym, and other fields. The lack of knowledge on the water use of shower heads can mean large monthly incurred loss on water and heating cost that could have been saved.

A regular shower head in the Philippines consumes 4.5 Gallons Per Minute, 2 Gallons per minute more than maximum US standards. This could be further alleviated by using Oxygenics water saving shower systems that bring down water consumption to 1.5 Gallons Per Minute without sacrificing user comfort.

The savings have the following benefit.

1. Reduced monthly operations cost. The cost of water and water heating saved can give a Return of Investment of 6 to 8 months.

2. Lesser use of water pumps - Since less water is needed, less water will be needed to be pumped to the overhead tanks, resulting to large savings on pump use.

3. Water in tanks will last longer - With the current water rationing situation, having water more efficiently used will mean that the water on reserve will last a lot longer.

4. Positive corporate image - A company that shows it cares for the environment creates positive impression to its guests. When guests are aware that the product is available and being used by others, those who do not comply get a negative impression accordingly.

These are just on Water savings, lifetime performance warranty also assures your facility that you need not worry about clogging, corrosion, and scaling, which makes showerheads less appealing over time.

Another important product to consider are Bioball Waterless urinal Solutions. The most hygienic, affordable, and environmental solution available. You can now go waterless without replacing your urinal.

For more information on Manhattan Green Solutions. Please visit http://mgs.jw-world.com

Philippine Water Crisis - An Important Time to Consider Water Savings

Several important factors has to be further considered now that the water crisis that is being discussed has become even more critical. The lack of regulations in many plumbing issues has made households and buildings inefficient with their water consumption, that becomes a major contributor in the current water crisis. A regular household with better awareness on efficient water systems and usage can easily save up to 70% on their water consumption. If there is a good awareness campaign, this will create a larger volume of savings for the entire Metro Manila accordingly.

One of the largest water consumers in residential situations are shower heads. Current shower heads in the Philippines consume 4.5 Gallons Per Minute. Using water efficient (not low flow) shower heads give the same water volume as low flow but with good pressure, therefore not sacrificing comfort. This can cut down 40% of water usage.

Checking houses for water leaks is just as important. Leak is water that is being completely wasted by inefficient joints or faucets. Check all joints for leaks, check the toilet bowl for leaks (which happens in the flapper most of the time), and most importantly, the faucets as well.

For commercial establishments, it is even more important now to focus on waterless urinal solutions. It is best to choose waterless urinals that do not require replacing urinals. They then become more cost effective, and more environmental accordingly.

In the end, whatever we can do to help alleviate the water crisis will be to our own benefit as well.

Save the Planet Quiz Night

We're putting FUN in FUND RAISING!

JCI Global CT, together with Greenpeace, 121 Restaurant, and Manhattan Green Solutions Bring you SAVE THE PLANET QUIZ NIGHT!

GREAT PRIZES AWAIT THE WINNERS!!!

The event will be on July 21, 2010. 9pm at 121 Restaurant, 2nd Floor Allegro Center, 2284, Pasong Tamo Ext., Makati (In front of Dasma Gate, not Don Bosco)

Entrance Fee of Php 200 per person, inclusive of 2 bottles of beer. Proceeds will go to Greenpeace's noble efforts in helping protect our environment.

Form a group or join a group! 

RSVP at hmdaswani@gmail.com or 0917 5003433, look for HASH.

Upcoming Event with JCI

How To Get There:

Via C-5 (From Libis) - Exit at Bayani Road tunnel (near Heritage Park) to make a U-turn to C-5 Northbound lane, turn right at Levi Mariano St. Take another right at Acacia Avenue, corner of Rosewood Pointe, then drive straight until you reach Mahogany Place 3.

Via EDSA (From SLEX) - From EDSA, turn right to McKinley Road. Take Lawton Ave. then turn left to Bayani Road (Heritage Park). Pass thru C-5 tunnel to enter C-5 Northbound lane. Turn right at Levi Mariano St. Take another right at Acacia Avenue, corner of Rosewood Pointe, then drive straight until you reach Mahogany Place 3.

Want to Go Green? Get Thinner Blankets

One of the greatest concern in trying to go green is HVAC (which stands for Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning). A poorly designed room with terrible insulation will have the HVAC fighting with the outside weather in keeping the room to just the right temperature you want. Insulation is key in ensuring that the outside weather stays out, and the temperature inside stays in.

When this is resolved, the other key issue is "How do we make our room comfortable even at 25 degrees celcius?". This is the greatest query sent to me once, to which the reply is, Get a thinner blanket.

Let's look at the closer purpose of a blanket. They key element of a blanket is that it keeps you warm. A thick blanket has great thermal insulation of keeping the cold out and your body nice and hot. If your blanket is too thick, you feel a little too hot, thus requiring you to use more air conditioning to keep the room nice and cold. Over time, the cold temperature reaches your body, but just enough, to keep you comfortable while the other side of the blanket is at 16 to 18 degrees.

If the blanket is thinner, the thermal insulation has been greatly reduced, bringing the required temperature to make one comfortable up to 25 degrees. If one can do without a blanket, then 28 degrees can come out to be very comfortable.

One can take the further step of using a mild blowing fan to accompany the air conditioner. Keep the room at 25 degrees and keep a small fan running on low. This small fan will circulate cool air better, therefore requiring less of the air conditioner.

One can try some curious experiments and see for  themselves the effect of different blanket thickness options and its corresponding comfort. Some might take a little longer to get used to, but nothing more than 5 days at the most.

A small change in habit will tremendously help the earth, and the wallet as well.

Site Recommendation - greater Good Philippines

For those who are constantly seeking news and updates on the environment, Greater Good Philippines provides quite a comprehensive site with articles of great interest for the public

Aside from the environment, the site also has articles relating to CSR, and other articles of great interest.

For more information, please visit http://greatergood.i.ph/

The Real (and dirty) Picture of Running a Coal Fired Power Plant

While it is agreeable that coal fired power plants produce a lot of carbon emissions, there are other, more sinister emissions from a coal fired power plant.

The following information is from http://www.howstuffworks.com/question481.htm

"The thermal energy content of coal is 6,150 kWh/ton. Although coal fired power generators are very efficient, they are still limited by the laws of thermodynamics. Only about 40 percent of the thermal energy in coal is converted to electricity. So the electricity generated per ton of coal is 0.4 x 6,150 kWh or 2,460 kWh/ton."

The emissions from a coal fired power plant is as follows (from Wikipedia)

"Of fossil fuels, coal combustion in thermal power stations result in greater amounts of carbon dioxide emissions per unit of electricity generated (2249 lbs/MWh^[14]) while oil produces less (1672 lb/(MW·h)^[15] or 211 kg/GJ) and natural gas produces the least 1135 lb/(MW·h) (143 kg/GJ).US EPA Clean Energy—Gas"

Other emissions from coal fired power plants (from how stuff works)

"A typical 500 megawatt coal power plant produces 3.5 billion kWh per year. That is enough energy for 4 million of our light bulbs to operate year round. To produce this amount of electrical energy, the plant burns 1.43 million tons of coal. It also produces:"

Pollutant	Total for Power Plant	One Light Bulb-Year's Worth
Sulfur Dioxide - Main cause of acid rain	10,000 Tons	5 pounds
Nitrogen Oxides - Causes smog and acid rain	10,200 Tons	5.1 pounds
Carbon Dioxide - Greenhouse gas suspected of causing global warming	3,700,000 Tons	1852 pounds

While the above may seem shocking, the most shocking information that no one has ever been told - Coal Fired Power Plants are also radioactive! (From Wikipedia)

"As most ores in the Earth's crust, coal also contains low levels of uranium, thorium, and other naturally-occurring radioactive isotopes whose release into the environment leads to radioactive contamination. While these substances are present as very small trace impurities, enough coal is burned that significant amounts of these substances are released. A 1,000 MW coal-burning power plant could have an uncontrolled release of as much as 5.2 metric tons per year of uranium (containing 74 pounds (34 kg) of uranium-235) and 12.8 metric tons per year of thorium.^[21] In comparison, a 1,000 MW nuclear plant will generate about 500 pounds of plutonium and 30 short tons of high-level radioactive controlled waste."

Mercury content is also a large threat from coal fired power plants. Some parts of mercury is now being recaptured in USA power plants, but emissions still exist. In many situations, mercury from coal fired power plants is the largest source of mercury in the current air pollution problem, which then gets into rain, water, and contaminates fish ponds and the local water supply.

It is thus vital that new power plants come from alternative energy as enough technology has been put in to make it economically viable. It is also just as important that we monitor and reduce energy consumption in our own households. Every watt counts.

Angat Dam Water Crisis Critical

There have been countless times when we watch TV and see ads on stopping water leaks, on becoming a more responsible water user, and better managing this exhaustible water supply. We incur the greatest problem of not being able to appreciate just how severe the issue has reached, and to what extent is the real situation that we are currently facing.


All the brown you see (soil face) is how much less water is now.


One vital example would be Angat Dam in the Philippines. This dam currently supplies water to 97% of Metro Manila, the largest metropolis in the Philippines with a population of 15 million. The dam is also designed to provide 240 megawatts of power (200 megawatts main, 40 megawatts auxiliary), and provide water to 30,000 farms. It is 65,000 hectares in size, with 2,200 hectares as the dam itself, and the rest, its watershed, collecting rain water, its only source of water, to provide the public with their need.


the water level has been so low for so long that grass is growing.


During summer the Dam has severely reduced in water, and this might have been happening for quite some time now. The dam, perhaps, was not designed for the population of the metropolis, but more importantly, the dam is suffering from a seeming water deficit, as it continually goes lower, waiting for rain.

And even in rain, there can only be so much water in the dam itself. The last disastrous rain volume, equivalent to 1 month worth of rain, only brought in 4 meters of water, which is not sufficient for the amount of water reduced in the dam already. The dam is no longer holding enough reserves, and yet everyone uses water as if there is an unlimited supply.


lots of areas that are so dry it is scary.


During summer, the dam was only running the auxiliary power supply of 40 megawatts instead of its designed capacity of 240 megawatts. Also as important of an issue is that to provide water for the entire metropolis, they had to stop supplying water to the 30,000 farms. This has meant empty rice husks, a disaster for farmers who needs irrigation most during summer.

The daily hidden areas of water waste lies in inefficient toilet systems, unguarded leaks, water consuming shower heads, and using potable water for cleaning cars and watering plants.

It is high time that everyone does their part in becoming more responsible on water use. Rain water harvesting need not be complicated and expensive, as one can buy large water barrels, and roof rainwater gutters to these barrels. Rainwater can be used to water plants and even for cleaning cars. Every small act counts. Do check your faucets and toilet for leaks. Remember that toilet flaps are the biggest culprit, and do use a lot of water. Also do check on your shower head. Ideal shower heads should use 1.2 gallons per minute up to a maximum of 2.5 gallons per minute.

What is now happening in the Philippines can happen to other countries in the world. Give value to water and respect this special resource. It has provided well and should not be taken for granted.

After all, it is a resource we share and borrow.

Greener Philippines Recommended Site:http://www.treehugger.com/

One of the most motivating sites on going green has to be Tree Hugger. This site contains some  of the most interesting current events, environmental solutions, and many other stories. The site also has forums for people to interact and give ideas accordingly.

The site shares information with other blogs, and is an organic interaction that stimulates and constantly educates readers on ideas on going green.

For those who want more knowledge on going green, you may visit http://www.treehugger.com/

Top 5 recyclable items at Home

While it is true that sending old things off for recycling is very good, recycling items that can be reused as another product at home is even better. Imagine the required carbon emissions for recycling an item through a recycling center rather than being reused at home.

This does not mean that sending products off to recycling centers is bad. Recycling is good as it means lesser landfills and the carbon emission of recycling is a lot lower than creating new products from raw materials.

Here are the 5 recyclable items at home with multiple use.

1. Ice cream buckets - For decades now, plastic ice cream buckets have been a central recycling item in Philippine households. These can be used for storage of food because of its strong lid, or as flower pots. For those who are more creative, these buckets can be designed and used for more purposes.

2. Old egg cartons - Egg cartons are also a very popular item reusable for recycling. With a little creativity, egg cartons can be use for a myriad of things from soundproofing rooms to becoming works and crafts for children.

3. Old softdrink bottles - Old softdrink bottles are still bottles where liquids can be stored in. Once well cleaned, these bottles can be used to be filled up with liquid condiments of water for storage.

4. Biscuit boxes - Biscuit boxes, especially tin boxes, are still a classic and yet novel box for storage. With a little creativity, these boxes can be made as great show pieces as well.

5. Plastic bags - Rather than discarding plastic bags, these bags can still be used a few more times for transporting items around (for delivery and such ) and for keeping small items sorted in storage areas.

Just as important as the above, here are some items to NEVER RECYCLE at home.

1. Fluorescent and CFL tubes - Albeit arts and crafts of whatever the intention, these defective tube lights contain mercury and would cause more harm than good.

2. Wires - unless you are a certified and properly trained electrician, do not run the risk of assumption and use old appliance wires as extension cords and such. While recycling is good, raising the chances of fire is not.

3. Old paint cans - Old paint cans can be used for many things, BUT NOT FOR STORING DRINKING WATER OR FOR BATHING. Paint still remains inside the container, and local brand paints still contain quite a lot of VOC.

4. Batteries - Keeping batteries outside or reusing them for any other purpose would mean a high risk level in terms of lead or mercury poisoning. Batteries have much more different toxic chemicals that many do not realize.

5. Old appliances - Playing around with internal parts of old appliances or electronics without proper knowledge could lead to worse situations. Old appliances still do not follow ROHS and can contain many hazardous chemicals.

Want to help the environment? Bring Your Own Bottle

One of the most incorrigible habits we are found to be sinful of is the acquisition of bottled water, and lots of it. The biggest issue is if our regular habit has found that spending less than 20 pesos for a bottle is not an issue, then why bring a reusable bottle?

The biggest reality is the issue that plastics are not bio degradable. Just as important is the fact that plastic bottles being used for bottling water is not necessarily healthy as well, if the bottle has been kept in an area of high heat.

Several solutions are readily available, and should be taken advantage of.

1. Bring your own bottle - Offices have water fountains that have water purifiers, houses can install water purifier, the reality is, it is both economical and environmental to bring a portable yet environmental reusable bottle rather than purchasing disposable bottles.

2. Buy a water purifier - Encourage your office and home to switch to water purifiers rather than purchasing water from outside. This will make things more environmental and economical.

If an office can encourage this habit, then imagine the impact on reduction of non biodegradable materials in the landfill. This also means a lot less carbon emissions as well. We all have to do our part in encouraging and motivating others to go green.

Are Waterfree/Waterless Urinals in the Philippines Really Environmental?

One of the most serious topics being discussed is the importance of saving water to help the environment, but the larger and more important concern, of course, is the hygiene and environmental impact of waterless urinals.

Waterless urinals have been in the market for quite some time in USA and other countries, we have seen recent growth and development of this concept in the Philippines, with urinals being replaced to waterless. More importantly, there are several types of waterless urinals in the Philippines and options have to be considered.

Option 1: Oil trap cartridge
- Oil trap cartridge have become very popular in the Philippines as they have entered the market early. The concept is simple, a cartridge has an oil trap that keeps sewage gases from entering the premises, yet letting urine pass through.

Option 2: Bio Enzyme cartridge
- Bio enzyme cartridge utilizes organic enzymes that consumes urine contents from urine, leaving urine to become water. This system does not need urinals to be replaced anymore.

Points to Consider

In our previous articles, we have discussed carbon footprint as one of the most important tools in measuring environmentalism. Option 1 will require that old urinals will be replaced with a new one. A completely new urinal will entail a large amount of carbon to be emitted to the atmosphere. This and the disposal of old urinals will mean a major step backward for any company going green. Retrofitting an existing urinal is a more viable and environmental alternative, not to forget economical as well.

Another important factor is the post disposal of consumable products. The only two viable option is if the product is bio degradable or if the supplier has a recycling program for old cartridges. If there is none, then disposal of old cartridges are a big sin.

Lastly, urinals without water will mean urine will stick on the urine walls. Urinals will need an enzyme coating on the urinal walls to keep the toilet hygienic. Otherwise, urine on urinal walls will harbor bacteria when urea from urine breaks down.

Overall, what is most important is that all environmental concerns on going waterless has to be answered. Before buying a new waterless urinal, consider the above facts first.

Top 10 Points to consider in building a Greener Home

Through bank financing, it is possible to build a greener home where the additional cost, amortized, is a lot less than the monthly savings one can enjoy from a well built green home.

Green homes are not only eco friendly, but are also friendly to its inhabitants and the surroundings. Here are the first 10 points one should consider before constructing a home.

1. Location - It is always a popular belief, and still is, that location matters, and it does. But more importantly, you want to ensure that you have good wind circulation in the area you plan to reside. By assuring oneself of good wind, the need for air conditioners is greatly reduced. This will also play a vital role in how your home designer designs a house that uses more passive cooling over the need for air conditioners.

2. Accessibility - You can have a home with a garage that has 3 cars, but it would be better if wherever you want to go is practically a walk away. This makes things more environmental, it encourages walking, and you save a lot on gas as well.

3. Community - Is the community greatly encouraged by greenery? Is the garbage pick up frequent? Has there been any history of flood? Do not scrooge up and get slightly cheaper property and close one eye. Remember that one builds an eco friendly house on terrain best suited for residential living, and this also means choosing a place not prone to flood.

4. Choice of materials - It is not just the use of alternative energy that is important, but eco friendly materials as well. Choose wood from timber that is certified by FSC. Prioritize recycled materials and do your research. Most importantly, stay away from products that have high VOC content. 

5. Get the Right Fixtures the First Time - Choose pipes that might be more expensive now, but will last a lifetime. Ensure good water pressure and install Eco showerheads to match. Use good quality solar water heaters or air source heat pumps. These are some of the many fixtures and appliances that might cost more at the start, but will pay itself off in no time.

6. Design well lit houses - Better lit houses need less lighting during the day, install light redirection systems and special window treatment to keep the heat out, but lets light in. Use CFL or LED for lighting accordingly.

7. Design a lifestyle first before designing a house - A person has to look at ones lifestyle first and verbalize what that lifestyle is. The house should be designed around the lifestyle, ensuring that the house is efficient based on what is needed from it.

8. Well designed houses are low maintenance - Well designed houses should require less frequent maintenance in terms of energy, water, and especially home repairs. Invest in more durable materials and keep that money for repairs in your pocket than others.

9. Light colored houses are always a plus - In a tropical country like the Philippines, houses should be painted with light colors. White is the best in deflecting radiant heat. Even if concrete is a low conductor of heat, it will still conduct heat, helping concrete absorb heat will mean more burden for air conditioning.

10. Get your house certified - To ensure that you are building an Eco friendly home, get it certified by either BERDE, LEED, or BREEAM. BERDE is designed to meet local standards and requirements for green buildings. Do your research and choose what is most suitable.

Understanding Cooling Systems

We all use air conditioners to cool our homes and facilities. We need air conditioners to remain productive, since our body needs a cooler environment.

Human bodies burn calories through activity and due to this activity our body produces heat. The heat produced by our body makes it necessary to cool its own, otherwise, it overheats. For the body to be cooled, we have to follow the basic law of heat transfer, which is. heat transfers to a cold place, until a unified temperature is achieved.

But keeping a facility too cold produces another problem. too much cold and the body uses more energy to heat itself up. This is done through movements such as shivering.

Given the above, it was discovered that while everyone has their own healthy or optimal room temperature, the average comfortable temperature is between 24 to 26 degrees celcius.

So, we now know that we need a comfortable room to keep our bodies healthy and productive, and that magic number is 26 degrees celcius. But, how much air conditioner do I need?

For this, we need to get the room dimensions. Take the height, length, and width of a room. We can start off with an example that a room may have a 10 foot ceiling, have an 15 foot length, and 15 foot width. The total room size is 2250 cubic feet.

1 British Thermal Unit (BTU) can raise 55 cubic meters of space by 1 degree farenheit. If the room is 2250 cubic feet, raising it by 1 degree farenheit will require 40 BTU. We will need this to establish how hot is the room before cooling. If the outside temperature is 32 degrees celcius, and we want to bring it to 26 degrees celcius, 6 degrees celcius is equivalent to 42.8 degrees farenheit  (F=(C*1.8)+32)

42.8 degrees farenheit multiplied by 40 gives us 1,712 BTU to cool a room from scratch. If the room insulation is good against outside temperature, then there should be minimal effort by the air conditioner to keep the room cool against outside temperature.

We have to remember that while our house might have good walls and everything, any heat leak will bring in heat to the house, and that insulations merely delay heat transfer, not stop heat transfer. Case in point, it takes a long time to heat a brick to boiling hot compared to metal, but you will still be able to heat a brick. Windows are one of the poorest barriers of heat, and dark exterior colors help bricks absorb more heat.

Let us now take in how much heat each person produces.
A sleeping person produces around 250 BTU/hr or 75 watts
A sedentary but awake person produces around 400 BTU/hr or 120 watts
A person doing light work produces around 650 BTU/hr or 190 watts
A person doing heavy work produces around 2400 BTU/hr or 700 watts

We have to determine what are the activities that will transpire in the room. Is it a bedroom? A gym? An office?

For the sake of this example, let's take that the room is an office, with light work, and has 3 people who each produces 650 BTU/hr. This equates to 1,950 BTU/hr

Let us now take electricity. Every watt of energy used would create 3.412 BTU of heat A room with computers, light, and other appliances, produces a lot of heat accordingly. 5 40 watt bulbs and 2 180 watt computers will produce 1,911 BTU per hour.

Total BTU/hr produced by electric appliances and human activity equates to 3,861 BTU

The total starting BTU for a well insulated room is 5,563 BTU/hr or 92 BTU/min, but a room does not necessarily need to cool itself instantly. Therefore, we can take the 92 BTU/min requirement.

The initial room cooling startup will be around 1.8 kwh of electricity. After that, the required BTU will substantially decrease due to good room insulation.

Each horsepower is 745 watts. You may not need a large air conditioner to cool a room, since it is the initial shift of temperature is the primary concern. It would be best that the usual need + 50% would be considered, but then again, it is all dependent on design and strategy for implementing the room cooling system.

The value of good insulation is hopefully established by this literature, and as discussed, keep the room temperature at 26 degrees and help save the planet. Each degree can mean a lot in terms of electricity and carbon emissions

Understanding Carbon Footprint

One of the most confusing concepts on going green is the carbon footprint. People usually read about low carbon emissions or certain preferred products, but how does low carbon footprint work?

Carbon footprint is actually no different from understanding how money works. If you were to buy a television for USD 200 that lasts one year compared to a USD 500 that lasts 5 years, the monthly cost of the "cheaper television" is actually USD 16.67 compared to the "more expensive television" costing USD 8.34 a month. Carbon footprint works in a similar function.

There are 2 major basic questions asked before purchasing a product.
1. What is the starting carbon footprint and how long will the product last?
2. What is the carbon footprint of maintaining the product?

There are certain products that might have more processing at the start but it may last a lot longer, and have a lower maintenance cost. It is just as important to see what is the operating resource requirement of the product to better understand what will the product maintenance entail.

There are now more and more resources available online on what are the carbon footprints of some very popular products. Do the due diligence to ensure that whatever product that has to be used gets used wisely, and does not cost the earth to keep and use.

5 Essential Tips on How not to Waste Energy

While we have been promoting positive affirmations on the importance of going green, we have realized that there is an importance on the do nots as well. Here is a brief run down of how not to waste energy.

1. Do not keep non-essential appliances on standby - Conservation energy rules dictates that appliances that have a standby function do take a lot of electricity (especially appliances made at least 5 years ago). Do not leave appliances on standby when not in use and enjoy the savings later.

2. Do not be left unaware of your energy consumption - people who do not use energy meters end up on the losing end as people who do not monitor their own energy tend to consume up to 20% more energy than the rest. Get an energy meter and manage your energy consumption.

3. Do not keep old Air conditioners - It might have been a gift, but if it is more than 10 years old, a new airconditioner will pay itself off in less than a year.

4. Do not use incandescents - CFL have become so cheap that using incandescents is illogical. switch to energy efficient lighting and save that money that can go to a new shirt.

5. Do not leave water dispensers plugged overnight - Water dispensers can consume up to 400 watts per hour. When not needed, might as well keep it unplugged. Better yet, get a regular water dispenser and keep water bottles in refs.

10 Minor Lifestyle Changes for a Greener Future

We have previously discussed on 10 things one can do to have a greener home, but some minor lifestyle changes can also create a positive impact on how we can become greener citizens. These simple habits, when shared to others, will have a major impact in the environment.

1. Choose to Walk, Bike, Commute, or Carpool - Cars with only one user means a high personal carbon footprint. It is usually better to walk to a place 15 minutes away or even bike if the distance is longer. If it is possible to have neighbors who work in the same area to join, do a carpool. Commute is a good idea as long as smoke belching vehicles are avoided.

2. Throw trash in proper areas - Throwing trash on the road will lead trash to the rivers through the sewage system, if not, it will clog the drain. Throw trash in their proper receptacles (paper, plastic, etc) and do our part to have a better environment.

3. Paper or Plastic? Choose none when you can carry it by hand in a convenience store.

4. Take the Stairs - It is not easier said than done, because it is easy. Take the stairs if the person you have to visit is up to 3 floors up. It is also good for the health.

5. Keep a Reusable Water Bottle - Going to the gym or at work? Stop buying bottled water when you can stick to reusable bottles. It is cheaper over time, and does our landfills a huge favor.

6. Buy Green - Make the conscious choice of buying green products over others, this will force companies to go green. Show your support to those who are going green and keep them motivated.

7. Turn off lights even when in a public place - Ever go to a restaurant toilet and find the lights on? Many toilets are good for one person and closing the light after you leave will not only help the restaurant reduce their energy bill, but you are helping make the environment greener.

8. Use reusable bags for groceries - There are many reusable bags available at a low price. They become multi purpose and reduce the need for plastic.

9. Patronize green establishments - Establishments who have made an effort to go green needs your support to encourage others to see that they too have to go green. Otherwise, give suggestions to your neighborhood restaurant to take green steps.

10. Spread the word - Going green means getting everyone to go green. Spread the word and let it spread. This will increase the impact.

Eco Calculator Widget now on Greener Philippines Page

A new widget called the Eco Calculator can be found on the right side of the blog, where paper usage can be monitored. There is also a Widget that updates on the current Carbon emissions on the atmosphere. Lastly, there is also a widget that can be used to calculate residential carbon footprints to help become aware on current household environmental impact.

Through this awareness we can strategize on what would be the best practice available to become more eco friendly.

10 Easy Steps to Greening Your Home

Everyone wants to do their part in greening their home, but investing in new equipment might not be an immediate answer, here are some pointers that can be done while saving up for your next Eco Showerheads or Energy Smart Meters.

1. Start recycling - Newspapers not brought to reclycling centers will not be recycled. By doing our share in giving all paper products for recycling, we are giving them a second life (or even more) by becoming something else. Do not just stop on Newspapers, look for old bottles and the likes.

2. Start Segregating Waste - Segregate food and biodegradable products from those that can be recycled, and those that just can't. food can become compost and fertilize gardens, and money can be made from recyclable items (aluminum cans, plastic bottles, glass bottles, paper).

3. Go LED or CFL - If you have not done this yet, then it is not too late to go to the nearest hardware and change all incandescent to CFL or LED. they are cheap and pay themselves off in a few short months.

4. Clean your Aircon and Ref - Ensure that all coils of your air conditioner and back of the ref is well ventilated and clean. Excessive amounts of dust and dirt makes them inefficient in transferring heat to the outside, and keeping inside cool.

5. Better Clean than Mask - Rather than having the need to use aerosol air fresheners or the likes, clean the house well enough to remove such need. You will find yourself in a more pleasant state. If possible, use incense sticks or oil lamps over aerosols. They last longer and have a more refreshing scent. Just make sure not to keep them in a fire hazard area.

6. Use Alternative Cleaning Agents- Bleaches and other cleaners are not good for the environment, especially when later flushed down the sewer. If possible, look for eco friendly cleaning products that use Bio Enzymes and alternative cleaning materials (using vinegar and the likes).

7. Open lots of windows - Opening windows during the day is not only healthy, as air is circulated, but it also cools the house with the natural breeze. Just make sure you are not residing near a polluted area.

8. Let light in - Keeping windows open lets light in, reducing the need to use lamps or similar items indoors. Save lighting when there is natural daylight from outside.

9. Throw away old carpets - Dirty carpets are terrible things to keep at home. They invite mold and keep toxins. If possible, use hemp floor rags or natural wooden flooring (bamboo is best).

10. Turn the thermostat - Many find it a good idea to keep aircon thermostat at Max. when not necessary. The ideal room temperature (and healthy) is 24 to 26 degrees. Try to keep rooms at this temperature. Also try using water at 1 to 2 degrees colder than usual. It is not uncomfortable at all and yet saves a lot of money in the process.

Little changes in habit and minor adjustments to what we do can go a very long way.

An Introduction to Green Building Certifications

The Philippines, through a developing awareness on the importance of going environmental, will start to see a lot of buildings showing different environmental certifications. Many would ask "What is the basic purpose of these certifications and why would they matter?"

Just like the concept of ISO, Green Building Certifications like BERDE, being developed for the Philippines, BREEAM from the UK, and LEED from the USA, are formed to give a benchmark on what the building is doing to become more environmental

(Above: Breeam Criteria on Cerficiation)

The whole concept of building green and getting certified gives public a better awareness that the building follows standards of choosing the right materials for building the products which is both sustainable for the environment, and safe for public health. It also continues by ensuring that these implementations are an on going benefit to the environment and its occupants by setting standards that are dynamic as new technology enters the market. 

Major important areas to consider are on energy efficiency, water efficiency, resource efficiency, and health impact

Building Certifications take the regular building and challenges developers to go beyond the standards of conventional buildings and further improve and reduce the need for consumable resources. Buildings have to maximize using nature such as daylight and wind in lighting and cooling whenever possible.

Reward on using the following certification pays for itself in many ways. Clients who are aware of these certification and their corresponding benefits favor Green Certified buildings, thus increasing their property value. They also have an economic advantage of substantially lower maintenance cost, and the idea of creating a building that is beneficial for the environment is more important than ever.

People looking into investing in properties now have to put greater weight on Green Certified buildings as the shift towards eco-responsible products and infrastructure is more important. Those who do not go green are left out.