Sustainable Solutions - Center for a Better Life
Elmwood Reclaimed Timber Inc. manufactures and markets the highest-quality reclaimed wood products, which adhere to standards embracing the company's deep respect for the environment. Every product created by Elmwood, including wide plank flooring, countertops, beams and cabinet lumber, has been made by using wood salvaged from sustainable sources. All antique reclaimed timber is old-growth wood harvested from the original, unaltered forests that were standing before settlers arrived. Out of respect for cultural heritage and architectural history, only structures that are condemned, abandoned or beyond repair are deconstructed. Elmwood Reclaimed Timber just had a portion of its products gain the designation of Forest Stewardship Council-Recycled accreditation. The recognition adds validity to an already green team, which is working on having other inventory items similarly cited.
Bazura Bags is a social entrepreneur proving that one person's trash is another's treasure. This Toronto-based company has launched a line of high-quality bags and accessories handcrafted by a women's cooperative in the Philippines. They use colorful discarded juice containers and tons of pre-consumer waste that would otherwise clutter landfills, fields and streets in their communities. Every day children from local schools collect more than 50,000 used drink containers called "doy packs" and sell them to the co-op. By transforming "basura," the Filipino word for "garbage," into unique collections of eco-chic bags and other accessories, virgin material resources that had been previously used to make similar products are conserved. The company is committed to giving garbage a new life as fashionable bags and accessories support the environment and fair trade.
Because the textile industry is one of the largest environmental polluters, Looolo Textiles wants to address the issue to effect global change. The name "Looolo" is a visual representation of "100 percent," symbolizing the company's commitment to sustainability in every aspect of the design process. From the choice to use organic materials for production to consideration of the environmental footprint that the products leave at the end of their useful lives, Looolo is revolutionizing the textile industry with its sustainable solutions. These organic, biodegradable interior furnishings are lined with organic cotton filled with kapok from the Malaysian rainforest and are available in a full range of colors. 
Almost every product in the cleaning aisle has undergone some kind of evolution while sponges have been the same for decades. In 2006 founders of TWIST set out to turn the world of cleaning products on its head by combining design and environmental responsibility to create functional, beautiful and responsible alternatives that are more durable and longer lasting. One TWIST European Sponge Cloth is equivalent to 17 rolls of paper towels and lasts 25 times as long as a traditional terrycloth bar rag. Not only are TWIST products 100 percent biodegradable, but the packaging is earth-friendly and recyclable. TWIST packaging is a paperboard box that can be turned into a bird feeder. How's that for a twist?
Bottled water now costs more than gasoline; and while tap water is making a comeback, there is growing concern about the impact certain hard plastic reusable bottles may have on long-term health. Klean Kanteen, an industry leader in lightweight, stainless steel bottles, has developed sleek alternatives to leaching plastic and potentially hazardous epoxy-lined aluminum bottles. The company makes the bottle of choice for eco-conscious and health-conscious consumers. A Klean Kanteen is made of electro-polished stainless steel, which is lightweight, durable, non-leaching and toxin-free. Now launching a full collection of colored bottles, including a pink "renewal" bottle that will benefit breast cancer research, Klean Kanteen also offers a children's 12 oz. Sippy Cup, an 18 oz. cup, a 27 oz. cup, a 40 oz. size and a full range of cap options.
EMD Chemicals is the North American affiliate of Germany's Merck. The company has been conscious of its impact on the environment for years and assists customers in the proper handling and usage of, return of and recycling of waste chemicals. In addition, the firm provides important tests for many different volatile chemicals found in water and in soil extracts. Arsenic is one of the volatile chemicals that is often a result of ground water contamination from a number of sources to include unsuitably sited waste dumps. EM Quant Arsenic Test can be used to monitor the levels of arsenic compounds in ground water, which may contain up to 0.1 mg/l of arsenic. Mineral water, which may have a considerably higher arsenic concentration, soil extracts, pharmaceutical products, specimens and liquid foods can all be tested for arsenic concentration as well.
GreenFiber™ is the manufacturer of natural fiber insulation, fire and sound products that not only offer permanent and proven fire resistance for the life of a structure but also reduce nuisance noise when used in walls to create a more comfortable living space. Their products, produced in 11 electric-driven plants across the U.S., consist of 85 percent recycled paper fiber. Energy use for the production of GreenFiber's products is ten times less than the energy required to manufacture other insulation materials. GreenFiber's sustainability mission is the quest to leave the world better than their employees found it by conserving natural resources, fostering healthy work environments and communities, and creating economic growth.
Green Power Generators ™ (GPG) is pioneering new custom-built biodiesel fuel generators. Derived from biological sources such as vegetable oil, the biodiesel fuel used in operating them is safe to handle, as biodegradable as sugar and it reduces net carbon dioxide emissions by 78 percent compared to traditional petroleum diesel-fueled generators. GPG generators feature Cummins Tier-3 engines that meet the most stringent EPA emissions standards. Only 1 percent of generators currently used are Tier-3. The company also has its own supply of biodiesel fuel as well as transportation, utility and refueling trucks that run on fuel from the same source to ensure that all measures are taken to prevent unnecessary carbon emissions.
When your landscaping dream requires a paved area, your vision should include PolyPavement, the natural soil pavement. Unlike soil stabilizers that hold down dust and dirt marginally, PolyPavement provides a solid pavement wear surface. Converting the earth itself into a solid pavement, it allows the complete palette of Nature's earth tones, colors and hues. Environmentally safe PolyPavement is non-toxic to plants and animals; it contains no known carcinogenic ingredients such as vinyl acetate or acetaldehyde. In addition, it may be applied in environmentally sensitive areas without worry or concern. In tests PolyPavement has been proved safe for sensitive aquatic life and did not leach into ground water. Natural Soil Pavement, more than two times stronger than asphalt, cannot be damaged by rain. It supports heavy vehicles yet requires little or no maintenance. Foot traffic areas, parking lots, service roads or other services may be specified to meet any and all design requirements.
Flapperless Toilets utilize new innovative "tipping bucket" technology that controls water flow by eliminating rubber flappers and seals often found in traditional toilets prone to leaks because of improper seating or normal "wear and tear" from corrosive minerals in the water. Flapperless toilets also have fewer moving parts than normal toilets so they greatly decrease the need for repair and maintenance. The "tipping bucket" ensures that no more than 1.6 gallons of water are used per flush (54 percent less than a 3.5 gallon per flush model). If a family of four replaced a 3.5 gallon per flush toilet with a Flapperless, EPA WaterSense-approved toilet, they would save more than $90 annually on their water bill. Niagara Conservation's two EPA-approved models are N2225R and N2225E.
EnOcean manufactures and markets world-leading energy harvesting technology, sensors and RF (radio frequency) communication in a single solution for building and home automation, lighting, industrial, automated meter reading and environmental applications. Dramatic advances in this technology are significantly broadening the application of battery-free wireless lighting control in sustainable, green construction in the United States.
Installation, system configuration, commissioning, operation and maintenance are simple and quick. The products are scalable and can be moved easily so they adapt readily to changing floor plans. The EnOcean technology is based on miniaturized, ultra low power electronics. They are fully compatible with existing sensors and industry-standard networks.
Mecho/5 with EcoVeil shadecloth is the first complete solar shading system to receive Cradle to Cradle certification from MBDC, the sustainable product development and consulting firm founded by William McDonough and Michael Braungart. Cradle to Cradle products can be reused or recycled, are manufactured with energy- and water-efficient processes and are socially responsible. MechoShade Systems' products enable buildings to be environmentally friendly and energy efficient. They enhance personal and workplace productivity by minimizing solar heat gain, excessive brightness and annoying glare from direct sunlight. The EcoVeil shadecloth is made from a thermoplastic olefin (TPO) based yarn.
Many people spend more than 80 percent of their time indoors under inadequate electric lighting which is both uncomfortable and inefficient. Most people, including 75 percent of employees surveyed, prefer daylighting over electric lighting. Electric lighting does not satisfy human biological needs as compared to full-spectrum daylighting. This fact is critical since these biological needs affect well-being, health and healing. High-performance daylighting systems, such as Ciralight SunTrackerOne, solve this problem by optimizing these biological benefits. In fact, electric lighting can be turned off completely for up to 10 hours during the day using Ciralights. Energy consumption decreases making it very efficient.
American Heritage Crafters (AHC) is a unique company consisting of two different but synergistic divisions created to manufacture and to market high-quality, handcrafted home furnishings and accessories. The web-based retail sales division carries a full line of more than 3,450 high-end furniture, lighting and accessory products, all of which are 100 percent American-made. The second division concentrates on the manufacturing of millwork items and log furniture. The Kuhns Bros. Millwork Store includes two exclusive lines of furniture, more than 300 custom door designs, moldings, hardwood flooring and custom millworks. American Heritage Crafters is a sister company of Kuhns Bros. Enterprises.
Wireless room sensors are not new. What is new is the way Siemens Building Technologies, Inc., has incorporated reliable, redundant mesh networking technology to ensure its new wireless room temperature sensors are immune to signal interruption. In Nov. 2005, Siemens introduced APOGEE® Wireless, the first wireless building automation system based on mesh topology. With a display that features temperature, setpoint values and occupancy condition, the device will enable the most ambitious, cost and energy-efficient HVAC control schemes. HVAC system designers and contractors can place the wireless sensor in the most optimal location to deliver occupant comfort and control rather than where it is easiest to wire.
TectaGreen's long successful continuous green roof application incorporates a specially-engineered system of layers which protects roof membranes from extreme temperature fluctuations and ultraviolet radiation. It also includes a new modular system which can be placed over the top of a conventional roof. Both incorporate drought-tolerant plants and provide environmental and aesthetic solutions and benefits for rooftops. TectaGreen™ can double the life span of conventional roofs, provide energy savings by reducing heating and cooling costs and improve stormwater management by minimizing run-off. It also conforms to rigorous U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) green standards and qualifies for LEED certification for tax benefits.
When looking for solutions to providing energy for your building, utilizing the roof makes perfect sense. Designed to increase energy productivity and savings, Tecta Environmental Solutions include: Tecta's new solar tracking skylights and light pipes, cool roof coatings, TectaGreen™ green roofs and TectaSolar's photovoltaic cells. Tecta Environmental Solutions provide environmental alternatives to help keep buildings cooler, to save energy by utilizing natural light and to extend the useful life of the roof. And, Tecta's nationwide team of project managers and site supervisors has the expertise to utilize Tecta Environmental Solutions to fulfill Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) specifications from construction to certification.
Market segments have really begun to recognize the benefits of building green which is why it's no longer a trend; it is a mainstay. And carpet, carpet pads and carpet adhesives are contributing to green building in an important way - by helping to reduce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and emissions. The Carpet and Rug Institute's (CRI) Green Label and Green Label Plus programs ensure that the lowest emitting products are being used in indoor environments. Likewise, CRI's Seal of Approval (SOA) Program identifies effective carpet cleaning solutions and equipment that clean carpet right the first time and protects the carpet investment. Not all products clean effectively. To find out more about these important programs, visit our website at www.carpet-rug.org. 
Take the art of recycling into your garden by using the Garden Pear by Rainwater Management Solutions Inc. The Garden Pear allows you to recycle rainwater to water your own garden long after the rain stops. By recycling rainwater, you'll save on your household water bill and help the environment by reducing total water consumption. The 111-gallon Garden Pear, with hose for bottom connection, is frost-proof and connects to your downspout for easy installation. To find out more, visit our website at www.rainwatermanagement.com/products.php. 
With the Kitchen Compost Crock by Greenfeet.com, you can collect your kitchen scraps in a container that's pretty enough to display on your kitchen counter but is downright tough on odor. The glazed ceramic crock will not leak or drip and the inside is glazed as well to prevent stains and odors from forming, eliminating countertop mess while you're waiting to make your way to the composter. The 1.5-gallon capacity unit measures 11" tall by 7" wide and arrives ready to go with a charcoal filter (replacement filters are available as are biobag compostable bags for lining). Removable stainless steel handle makes it easy to carry to your composter. To find out more, visit our website at www.Greenfeet.com. 
LG has unveiled a new addition to its Tromm laundry line, the largest front-load washer available (4.0 cubic feet) for home use. Ideal for large families, it gives consumers the ability to wash more laundry - including bulky items such as king-sized linens - in fewer loads, saving time, water and energy. Its high spin speed of 1,200 RPMs helps to extract water from clothing for better drying efficiencies while still offering a quiet operation. The matching dryer features a FlowSense™ Duct Clogging Sensor which detects blockages in the ductwork that could reduce exhaust flow from the dryer. Alerting the consumer that the ducts need cleaning maximizes operating efficiency. The model numbers are WM2455 (washer) and DLE5955 (dryer). To find out more, visit our website at lge.com/us. 
The new Falcon Waterfree stainless steel urinal provides unsurpassed performance and water savings in heavy-use bathrooms. The F-9000SS delivers unbreakable quality and design, while saving an average of 40,000 gallons of water per year. The contemporary style bowl is constructed of grade 304, 16 gauge stainless steel with matte finish to provide the ultimate level of durability. The F-9000SS urinal includes a patented cartridge with biodegradable liquid sealant which acts as a barrier to provide odor-free operation. With no flushing mechanism, the F-9000SS eliminates valve maintenance too - another key advantage over older, traditional flush style urinals. To find out more, visit our website at www.falconwaterfree.com. 
Warmboard is a healthier, environmentally conscious product that combines a structural subfloor and a thermodynamically sophisticated radiant panel into one simple component of your radiant heating system. Warmboard begins with a stiff, strong, 1-1/8" thick, 4" x 8" sheet of tongue and groove, weather-resistant plywood. A modular pattern of channels is cut into the top surface. A thick sheet of aluminum is stamped to match the channel pattern and is permanently bonded to each panel. The high conductivity of the panel leads to lower water temperatures, creating greater efficiency that ultimately benefits the environment. Warmboard also contributes to healthy and clean indoor air quality because germs, dust, pollen and mold spores generally associated with forced air systems do not apply to Warmboard. To find out more, visit our website at www.warmboard.com. 
Surface Saver rolls are environmentally friendly, reusable surface-protecting rolls that can be used to protect flooring, furniture or other items that could be damaged during construction, maintenance or other work. Unlike paper or plastic protectors that can typically be used only once and discarded, SURFACE SAVER rolls can be used many times over, thereby protecting the environment and reducing waste. SURFACE SAVER rolls are 2-mm-thick, providing padding to protect against damage from falling tools while being flexible enough to drape over stairways or countertops. SURFACE SAVER rolls - made from 100 percent recycled material and can be recycled as well - are 3.2-ft-wide and 32.8-ft long, covering 107.6-sq-ft. To find out more, visit our website at www.Surfacesaversinc.com, or call our toll-free number: 877-548-4884. 
Country Log Cabins (CLC), a sister company of Kuhns Bros. Log Homes, was born to continue the Kuhns family's same proud heritage, offering an affordable custom log home for cost-conscious consumers without sacrificing integrity, quality, value and service. Every item is carefully chosen; nothing is ever settled for. The Country Log Cabin Planning Kit features planning tools, their stunning 34-page portfolio and access to their exclusive web-based Design Series interactive program. These unique web-based designs are a collaboration of dreams and ideas with experience and skill, offering a starting point for your imagination to take flight. To find out more, visit our website www.countrylogcabins.com. |