2011 November

New MIT Technology Improves the Economics of Solar

November 30, 2011 By Tom Cranford 2 Comments

The future is bright for solar power (pun intended). Solar-powered devices are popping up all over the place, from solar-powered parking spots, to solar-powered smartphone chargers. We seem to be breaking the proverbial code of solar power, finding ways to implement it in even the most unlikely of places. But one area where we are still lacking [...]

The Nest Learning Thermostat

November 28, 2011 By Joshua S Hill 1 Comment

Introduced in October the tech community all but fell over themselves in appreciation of the new Nest Learning Thermostat which was designed in part by several former Apple employees and claims to be able to save you energy by learning your habits and routines. The Palo Alto company has been provided funding from Kleiner Perkins, [...]

Renovations and Repairs Can Boost Our Economy and Environment

November 27, 2011 By Chris Keenan 1 Comment

Home renovation uses less material and more labor than new construction. When renovating and repairing an already existing structure, there’s less of an environmental impact as well as the potential tax credits, incentives, and boost to the local economy.

Bamboo: Good or Bad for the Environment

November 27, 2011 By Chris Keenan 4 Comments

Bamboo has been lauded for its in home construction and building; however, some concerns have risen with the popularity of bamboo, including biodiversity, soil erosion, and chemical use.

Green Federal Buildings are a Financial Saving As Well

November 20, 2011 By Joshua S Hill 1 Comment

A Post Occupancy Evaluation of 22 GSA Buildings

Construct a green building that emits less carbon dioxide and uses less water and energy, but if it doesn’t operate as needed then your money is just going to go down the drain.

That’s why a new report that shows sustainably designed federal buildings cost 19% less to maintain is such good news.