Emerging Green Builders's topics - tribe.net

Green design photos for web-gallery?

2008-02-26T05:36:22Z

Hello everyone,
I am looking for quality photos of "green" residential building projects for single family residences and condos, that I can post on my website's gallery:

- examples of architecture & interior design
- before & after remodeling photos

The website is new, with a mission of educating the public on practical eco-friendly home design options. This is an opportunity to promote both the designer's talents and public awareness. My focus is on modern/conventional green homes (not mud homes, earthships, and the like). If you know of designers/architects who may be interested in having their work featured (read: free advertising opportunity), please let me know!!

Thank you,
Slava

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

grad studies in sustainable architecture - suggestions?

2008-01-03T07:09:51Z

hi there,

i am looking into universities with an accredited architecture program with a focus on green/sustainable design that is integrated into the program. i have my undergrad in landscape architecture with a minor in sustainability, so i do have a design background. i have looked into university of texas @ austin and berkeley so far, but would love more suggestions.

thanks! vanessa

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 3 replies

Skyscraper Farms

2007-12-27T05:54:35Z

http://nymag.com/news/features/30020/

Urban farming has always been a slightly quixotic endeavor. From the small animal farm that was perched on the roof of the Upper West Side’s Ansonia apartment building in the early 1900s (fresh eggs delivered by bellhop!) to community gardens threatened by real-estate development, the dream of preserving a little of the country in the city is a utopian one. But nobody has ever dreamed as big as Dr. Dickson Despommier, a professor of environmental sciences and microbiology at Columbia University, who believes that “vertical farm” skyscrapers could help fight global warming.

Imagine a cluster of 30-story towers on Governors Island or in Hudson Yards producing fruit, vegetables, and grains while also generating clean energy and purifying wastewater. Roughly 150 such buildings, Despommier estimates, could feed the entire city of New York for a year. Using current green building systems, a vertical farm could be self-sustaining and even produce a net output of clean water and energy.

Despommier began developing the vertical-farming concept six years ago (his research can be found at verticalfarm .com), and he has been contacted by scientists and venture capitalists from the Netherlands to Dubai who are interested in establishing a Center for Urban Sustainable Agriculture, either independently or within Columbia. He estimates it could take a working group of agricultural economists, architects, engineers, agronomists, and urban planners five to ten years to figure out how to marry high-tech agricultural practices with the latest sustainable building technology.

What does this have to do with climate change? The professor believes that only by allowing significant portions of the Earth’s farmland to return to forest do we have a real chance of stabilizing climate and weather patterns. Merely reducing energy consumption—the centerpiece of the proposal Al Gore recently presented to Congress—will at best slow global warming. Allowing forests to regrow where crops are now cultivated, he believes, would reduce carbon dioxide in the atmosphere as least as much as more-efficient energy consumption.

There is another reason to develop indoor farming: exploding population growth. By 2050, demographers estimate there will be an additional 3 billion people (a global total of 9.2 billion). If current farming practices are maintained, extra landmass as large as Brazil would have to be cultivated to feed them. Yet nearly all the land that can produce food is already being farmed—even without accounting for the possibility of losing more to rising sea levels and climate change (which could turn arable land into dust bowls).

Depending on the crops being grown, a single vertical farm could allow thousands of farmland acres to be permanently reforested. For the moment, these calculations remain highly speculative, but a real-life example offers a clue: After a strawberry farm in Florida was wiped out by Hurricane Andrew, the owners built a hydroponic farm. By growing strawberries indoors and stacking layers on top of each other, they now produce on one acre of land what used to require 30 acres.

Why build vertical farms in cities? Growing crops in a controlled environment has benefits: no animals to transfer disease through untreated waste; no massive crop failures as a result of weather-related disasters; less likelihood of genetically modified “rogue” strains entering the “natural” plant world. All food could be grown organically, without herbicides, pesticides, or fertilizers, eliminating agricultural runoff. And 80 percent of the world’s population will be living in urban areas by 2050. Cities already have the density and infrastructure needed to support vertical farms, and super-green skyscrapers could supply not just food but energy, creating a truly self-sustaining environment.

Like the Biosphere 2 project in Arizona, a real vertical farm will probably require a utopian philanthropist with deep pockets. In the eighties, Edward Bass spent $200 million of his own money to construct the Biosphere. A smaller and less complex vertical farm would probably cost that much to build today and could be funded by someone from a country where arable land is already in short supply, such as Japan, Iceland, or more likely Dubai. Despommier is convinced the first vertical farm will exist within fifteen years—and the irony is, oil money could very well build it.

Read more http://nymag.com/news/features/30020/index1.html

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Looking for cob info

2007-12-24T05:50:34Z

I am in a class at Santa Monica College, and we are trying to create a mural, possible of cob, to beautify the campus and educate people about green building. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Any input, seriously.

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 4 replies

anyone building this year?

2007-12-24T05:39:58Z

hey im wondering if anyones building this coming year id be more than glad to come along and give a hand, lemme know

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Thai Jars in Thailand?

2007-12-13T08:17:54Z

Hello. I have a rainwater harvesting business in Portland, OR
(http://www.harvestthesky.com) and I am traveling to Thailand for
business next week. I was wondering if anyone had contacts in Thailand related
to Thai Jars. I will be installing a thai jar soon and I would like to
see/learn how its done by experienced people. Please let me know if
you have any suggestions or personal experience with making Thai Jars. Thanks.
Brad

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 3 replies

land for sale SC Colorado

2007-12-10T20:59:42Z

6 acres in 2 lots on a public greenbelt/ creek in Baca Grants next to Crestone. Can build two houses each with a guest house and have 2 wells. Asking $49,000. Awesome views and access to mountains. Area has lots of Alternative building (local strawbales, adobe, airblock, cordwood, cob, etc) with no codes, just some restrictions. Contact direct if interested.

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

LEED Acredited Porfessional Exam

2007-10-31T00:16:49Z

I started studying for the LEED AP Exam. Does anyone have any recommendations?

Thanks,

Kiel

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Green Developers

2007-10-11T11:26:51Z

Hello all,

I have been struggling with the process of Green Development for over twenty years. I am closer now than I have ever been. I am in the process of forming a development company, I have been a contractor for 30 years. My first project will be an infill parcel, 4 acres in Franklin North Carolina.

I love the Appalachian mountains, they have been under attack for decades by The Tennessee Valley Authorities coal burning plant. It is my mission to build 500 units spread out across the area that will begin to rduce the energy demand and hopefiully put TVA out of business.From these models we will push the edge of technology, and that does not necessarily mean complexity. The profits will be reinvested into better and better projects.

We are working on a zero energy, passive, heating and air conditioning system. It looks very promising. Along with an insulator made from an abundant, clean, bug & fire resistant, agricultural by product. The site plan and building design are part of an ongoing three year design effort.

I have met some incredible people along the way. One retired NASA engineer has designed a passive solar greenhouse that you can grow vegetables in year round, it is at 3500 feet elevation! Jacque Fresco, www.futurebydesign.com, has been a great personal inspiration along with numerous other artisit, visionaries and brave frontier builders.

The time is now. Hope is here.

Conditions are coming together to force the conciousness of society into this direction.

A portion of all profits go to support heartland, www.whyagain.com.My friend dr. michael ryce has dedicted his life to delivering the tools to the planet to clear out the negative realities we hold in our mind body energy systems.

We have a lot of good times ahead, come join the ride!!

Terry

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

LEED Certified advanced composites

2007-10-11T00:43:57Z

I have a series of new advanced composites made from Volcanic rock which I am interested in getting approved as a LEED certified material. Any ideas?

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Hi Guys,

2007-09-11T18:16:33Z

Hi Guys,

I have added an Energy Efficiency section to my website- Comments/Suggestions would be great.

Link: http://www.worldofrenewables.com/EnergyEfficiency/index.html

Grant Rowe

World of Renewables
grantrowe@worldofrenewables.com

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Any such thing as Green Developers?

2007-09-09T17:42:44Z

I'm in New Jersey and I have been watchinbg the state get paved over by
Mc Mansions and it's been spreading across the nation.

So are there any and if so Where Are They?

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 9 replies

would this be of interest?

2007-09-07T01:50:44Z

Hi Tribe,
I have been asked to help produce a 9 day natural building/permaculture event on a new piece of land just south of the Baja border.
I am looking for feedback on all aspects including value,interest and curriculum.
please respond to scottankenypdx@gmail.com
Here are the details...

Oct 27 – Nov 4

Imagine a revolutionary oasis built with your very own hands
as you exercise in natural building and whole system design principles.

Imagine a community of passionate people learning what it means to be human beings,
immersed in an environment of self-expression, of listening, and of appreciation,
while they build beautifully and sustainably.

Introducing GiraSol (Sunflower), a new permaculture settlement breaking ground in November 2007. We invite you to be a part of this amazing experience by participating in a nine-day course designed to bring you competency in Permaculture and Earthen Building Methods.

Imagine yourself as part of that community…Living. Building. Playing.

This nine-day intensive design/build studio will combine natural building techniques (cobb, adobe, stone, straw/clay, passive/active heating systems) with presentations, discussions, exercises, and fun field trips.

GiraSol’s ground-breaking workshop will provide training in regenerative village design, natural construction and permaculture theory while establishing the GiraSol information center through hands-on work. The design will integrate a century-old adobe structure into a whimsical new building, seemingly sprung from the canvas of a Maxfield Parrish painting.

Led by mOceaN (Mark Lakeman), Lydia Doleman and Martin Shulke of Portland’s City Repair Project, the GiraSol Intensive will take place from 10/27/07 to 11/04/07. We will be camping as a group in the beautiful Baja desert, and all meals will be provided.

Basics

Location: GiraSol is a 200-acre parcel situated in Valle de las Palmas (Valley of the Palms), about 20 miles south of the U.S./Mexico Border and 30 miles from the Pacific Ocean between the major cities of Tijuana, Ensenada & Tecate. This new Center is on a vast tract of beautiful land in the valley, along a road from Ensenada to Tecate which is currently under construction. This road will bring unprecedented real estate development to this relatively undisturbed agrarian area. GiraSol strives to be a jewel in the Baja landscape by providing an example of sustainable community design.

Course Description: You will receive training AND become competent in the following areas:

1. regenerative village design and earthen building methods
2. biomass accumulation and use, plastering
3. roof framing
4. integrated landscaping
5. water catchment, re-use, and finishing methods.

Construction will be accompanied by discussions of the ecological features and benefits of each building phase. Through two field trips we will explore the local community by travelling to a wildlife preserve and taking part in Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead).

Daily Activities

6 a.m.
7 a.m.
8 a.m.
8:30 a.m.
Noon
2 p.m.
4–6 p.m.
6:30
8–10 p.m.
Moving Meditation
Breakfast & Daily Overview
Discussion of Daily Work Focus
Begin Field Project Work
Lunch and Siesta at the Lunch Palace
Village Design Discussion
Resume Filed Project Work
Communal Dinner
Evening Presentation/Discussion, Fire Circle

Dates: 10/27–11/04, 2007
Cost: $450

Reservations & Questions: Contact Scott Ankeny at 503.853.9376 or e-mail: scottankenypdx@gmail.com
Curriculum

There will be two tracks of education running at the same time.
Each student will be involved in both activities of building and landscaping

Day 1: Check-in, Orientation, Dinner, Campfire/Permaculture & GiraSol Overview
Day 2: Foundations, Biomass Accumulation*, Dialogue—Strategies and Practices
Day 3: Building Adobe Walls/Other Earthen Building Methods, Village Design & Community Building
Day 4: Adobe Walls, Water & Biomass Accumulation, Swales, Dialogue
Day 5: Plastering Walls, Swales, Natural Building
Day 6: Roof Framing, Tree-Planting in Biomass-filled Swales, Dialogue
Day 7: Field Trip (Ocean), Food Systems, Village Ecosystems, Spa & Special Places
Day 8: Roofing and Water, Water Catchment/Systems, Eco-Intervention
Day 9: Finishing & Systems, Visioning
Day 10: Completion, Afterparty, Departure

*Biomass piece will include the whole process — from mulching to retain rainwater
to improved soil structure resulting in increased food potentials.

Order of Construction
Foundation, Walls, Windows/Doors, Plaster, Framing, Roof

Evening Presentations
GiraSol: Story and Overview
Global Challenge, “Anti-Virus” Plan
Village Design
Inherent Nature
Case Studies of Successful Eco-Centers

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Jobs!

2007-09-03T21:55:02Z

Just posted 20 U.S jobs and 18 uk and europe jobs in the renewable sector.
Also added news feeds for each of the sectors.

Grant

www.worldofrenewables.com/forum.php

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

RETROFITS?

2007-08-30T23:51:20Z

I've got a project. It's a 70's modular prefab plop on top of rectangular foundation - - - simple box.

So far I'm cleaning out the house and doing minor finishing ( preparing and painting 2 cm thick plywood floors to make rooms easier to keep clean )

I'm still concerned about the details of increasing the envelope performance.

I want to meet the German passivhaus performance standards and have minimum R-40 walls and R-60 roof.

I also want to design and build proper solar utility additions on the south and north ends of the house.

I'm in need of feedback and advise from the "pro's" ( and you are a "pro" )
What may I do that will increase the thermal performance a factor of ten which will not destroy the existing construction?

I'll be stripping the siding and roofing to expose the 2 cm sheathing and excavating the foundation to the footing and out around 1.5 m. I know a complete vapor barrier is needed and I'm concerned about mold and rot.

The wall cavities are currently insulated with 9 cm fiberglass

I've been thinking a lot about the possibility of having a positive pressure ventilation in the basement and a negative in house, balanced so the negative pressure in the house is great enough to keep vapor from entering the wall cavities.

Also thinking of a rigid 1" mineral wool "buffer" zone between the sheathing and vapor barrier that would allow "breathing" if the whole house is ventilated in a positive pressure.

Yup - - - I bit off a CHUNK ! ! ! and I really want and intend to do it right.

Hopefully by this time next year there will be accomplishments to talk about.

I should take this message and post it in a "green retrofit" tribe.

so - - - any good knowlegable advise out there?

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Question of location?

2007-08-29T12:28:56Z

I have been posting Renewable energy jobs in my forum.
I have a question that you guys can help me with.
Would you search for a job primarily for location or Wage rate.
Coming from England everything is rather close so i was wondering in bigger countries if location was the biggest factor.

Grant Rowe
Editor
World of Renewables
www.worldofrenewables.com
grantrowe@worldofrenewables.com

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Passion?

2007-08-21T00:35:55Z

Hi,

I am looking for informed individuals with a passion for renewable energy
that wish to be part of a small team that runs World of Renewables.

Link: www.worldofrenewables.com

Its a free website so we rely on peoples passion.

We need individuals that are willing to contribute to the site in terms of news articles and
forum topics.
To be a moderator of the site to help members find information and generally promote
Renewable energy/Alternate energy/Susatinabillity.

If you are interested please drop me a line.

Not interested but have views? goto : http://www.worldofrenewables.com/register.php
And contribute to the forum- all feedback is welcome.

Regards

Grant Rowe
Editor
World of Renewables.com

grantrowe@worldofrenewables.com

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Seeds for peace in the middle east?

2007-08-06T07:26:24Z

Hay all!
I've tried to post a this before, but for some reason, it didn't registrar and folks couldn't read what I had written. So, I'm going to attempt to write it out again and hopefully this time, we'll have more responses,

Ok, so...a little info and background. I'm in Israel, and working on a project out here to grow herbs for the community. Also, wanting very much to have a program available for kids and their parents to learn about plants and how they communicate with us on all levels. It's really something that isn't being done here and I would like to bring this opportunity to light. I need some help. That's way i'm writing this request. We have a few green houses, so climate is not an issue. We need seeds! All different kinds, but organic. Herbs and winter vegetables.

The list for herbs:Elder flowers ,Yarrow ,Sage ,Rose hips ,Echinacea,Mullein,Astragalus,
Poke Root,Elecampane ,Thyme.

We are asking for 30 seeds each be sent to Israel.
We are asking for donations, since this project can really use all the help it can get and we really don't have the funds to get these seeds. Also, we request that the seeds are from your own garden and collected by you. It's a beautifal thing to know that the seeds that we are receiving are from people who cared for these plants and havested the seeds themselves. There is a story there and it makes it interesting to explain where these seeds came from and who cared for them. We like telling it this way.

Our request for organic Veggie seeds:
Celery ,Chinese leaves ,Dark greens ,Leeks ,Mushrooms, Squashes ,Winter roots ,Winter salads.

If it's not too much trouble to send the seeds with labels so we know what is what.

If you have any questions please feel to send me a message.
Thanks so much for helping us with this project. I mean a lot to us and the many people who's lives will be changed by your seeds.

If you are interested, please let me know and I can give out the address of where to send the seeds.

~peace~

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

In immediate need of green home designers & contractors

2007-06-11T05:37:10Z

Friends,

A dear friend of mine and his family in Mendocino County are in need of green home designers and contractors. Earlier today, their family home of three generations (and many families before them) was tragically consumed by a freak fire. It was a center of the local community and was built nearly a hundred years ago with redwood timber cut and milled on the property, all hauled by horses and oxen, and held together with nails forged in the blacksmith shop near their barn. Countless people found refuge in that home on the Ranch from our hectic urban lives, and all of us grieve its loss, as well as the loss of the dear pets who were trapped in the blaze...

My friend's words:
" Unfortunately, we had no fire insurance, as the nature of the structure was such that no company would offer us a policy, despite decades of efforts. Thus, rebuilding will be tough, though we've already received tremendous emotional support from the surrounding community. However, while several folks have offered to donate their time and skills to build something new as quickly as possible, I want to make sure that what we do put in its place is something that can foster community for more than a hundred years to come ( e.g. long beyond my time on this spaceship).

We'd always talked about how the Big House needed serious help with dust, energy efficiency, mice, and decades of clutter. Looking on the bright side, these are no longer issues. Think we just received the most thorough house cleaning possible. Seriously though, I'd like to build as green a structure as possible to replace what was lost, and, following in the Big House tradition, to make it not just a space for my family, but a space that the larger community can share (yourselves all included) and use as a rural refuge from urban jungles. If any of you, or folks you know, would like to help us design and rebuild such a space, please let me know. We're in immediate need of green home designers to come up with a master plan, and green contractors to implement dreams into reality, particularly any that are willing to work for cheap or pro-bono (I'm being blunt here), as our lack of insurance is going to be quite a hurdle."

If you know someone who would like to help create this dream and, consequently, join the community in this new chapter on the Ranch in Mendo, please contact me.

Many thanks & blessings,
Paula

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Volunteer or Class Recommendations

2007-06-10T20:21:28Z

Hey all,

I'm interested in getting involved somehow with green building. I've been a woodworker for a number of years now. I browsed around on the internet and looked for courses in the Bay Area that might help me get involved in such an important and growing field. Unfortunately I couldn't find anything being offered. Most of the courses were for full-on builders, architects, etc. I'm wondering if anybody knows of a good way to get involved. I'm interested in anything from volunteer work, to classes, to one on one mentor training. If anybody has any advice it would be greatly appreciated. Write me a message. I'm not on tribe all that often.

Thanks so much,
Joe

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 3 replies

Ideaplants - innovative & sustainable projects

2007-06-01T23:29:15Z

Hi folks,

I would like to let you know that we are setting up a website for sustainable communities – or better for sustainable projects that combine social and environmental topics.

At the moment the site is a simple blog with some first project profiles. The long term vision is to create a web-based platform for project developers and interested people from different places around the world to exchange ideas, concepts and to present individual projects to the public. This is a long-term project and luckily I’m getting support on this from all different parts of the world.

We are now trying to get the resources together and we are therefore looking for people that would like to present specific projects with pictures and small profile articles.

Would you be interested in participating?

Please email me!

Best wishes,

Mira
mira@ideaplants.org
www.ideaplants.org

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

The challenge is to design/build a strong bunkhouse

2007-05-30T16:10:24Z

Dear Friends,

Tropic Ventures Education & Research Foundation needs your talents for 7 weeks in the rainforest.
All accommodation and food expenses covered by us. You just have to get here!

The challenge is to design/build a strong bunkhouse, that will sleep 10-12 people (let me know if you have an experimental design idea to try and/or new materials).

We need a crew leader for several youth groups that will be at the project 30th June to Aug 16th 2007
The task will be to start on the creation of a new bunk house that is hurricane secure:
1) To add several feet of floor to an already existing concrete floor that is now 16’x10’
2) To create a foundation around the whole floor for the columns that will hold the roof.
3) To build walls, window and door openings.
4) To finish the roof and floor. Build bunk beds?

We are very open to green/alternative designs, but we need the talent.
We have people power and a small budget.

This offer is open to 2 to 3 people with strong get up and go, and ability to work with youth ages ranging from 16-19 years. There are three staff with every group. In between the groups, work will be on--going and, of course, time off to explore. We would like to have the basic structure completed by mid-August. Anyone with construction skills and a desire to put their creative building visions into practice please, please be in touch.

Ideal length of stay: 7 weeks - 30th June to Aug 16th 2007

Specific Dates of youth groups:
June 30-July 4 Globalworks
July 14-18 Windsor Mountain
July 19-23 Globalworks
Aug 12-16 Globalworks

I'm counting on the human desire to make beautiful, and do well, things that fit in with the ideals of the lifestyles that all of us talk about.
We have a blank canvas and you are invited to come paint on it.

Thanks for responding to this, all ideas welcome.
Big tree hug, 3t
www.eyeontherainforest.org

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Bio-friendly laquers/varnishes

2007-05-17T05:49:31Z

Anyone know of a substance that I can use to coat reclaimed plywood with, that would form a smooth, water resistant surface, but that doesn't have a high ecological footprint (be it in fabrication, or in terms of aerosol delivery)?

It's for use in constructing outhouses along the design specifics of not needing toxic chemicals for purposes of cleaning, kind of a "hose 'em and forget 'em" aesthetic (I'm involved in the "Green Team" for an upcoming festival, and I've noticed that often human waste systems are where you see the heaviest environmental impact. Being able to clean an area simply with water both has the benefit of not using nasty disinfectants, but by making it easy to clean also lessens the likelyhood of people sh*tting in the forest).

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

East Bay Design/Build firm seeking contract architect/designer

2007-03-05T17:36:38Z

Baywood Building & Design is seeking an architect/designer to work on a
consulting contract basis on upcoming residential and small commercial
projects. The ideal architect/design candidate would be willing to work in
conjunction with Baywood's in-house design team on preliminary conceptual
design, working drawings and permit documents, including program
development, space planning, construction detailing and specifications,
electrical layout, etc.

This position requires a willingness to work with other creative
individuals, an enthusiasm to share design responsibility, and a unique and
detail-oriented approach to design and architecture.

Baywood Building & Design is an established high quality East Bay
design-build firm. Our focus is on custom residential remodeling and
restaurant/retail commercial work. We emphasize extraordinary client
service, meticulous attention to detail and excellent organization. We also
strive to incorporate an artisan design and green construction sensibility
into our projects.

To get a better sense of Baywood projects and aesthetics, please take a
peek at the portfolio on our website at
http://www.baywoodbuilding.com/portfolio.html. Please email or fax resume,
including three work references, and include portfolio images [or a link to
a website if possible].

In addition, Baywood has a furnished office space in an artistic
design/build office in Emeryville available for rent. We'd prefer to rent
to an architect or designer in the building trades. The space is 13'8" x
10'4", about 140 sq. ft. The office features: shared copier and fax,
kitchen, bath and dining area, security system, light housekeeping included,
single parking space, casual environment with friendly folks and cat,
outdoor patio, and utilities included. The office is conveniently located
off the I-80/580.

Fax: 510.594.2463

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Introductions

2007-03-04T22:37:32Z

Who are you and why are you into Green Building?

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 35 replies

Radiant Heating for Homes in California - Truly Efficient?

2007-02-21T00:39:59Z

I'm currently designing a home in Calistoga which is to employ green design strategies...

I've always considered the Holy Trinity of Sustainable Building to be:
1. Grey Water
2. Solar Panels
3. Radiant heating

However when it comes to radiant heating, is it really the most efficient approach or are we being brainwashed as designers by the hype? Consider the following: In the east coast, radiant heating is a no-brainer as you typically would leave a system running for long periods of time during the cool weather seasons.

But in California, our temperature fluctuations are so drastic; it's oftentimes cold at night and hot during the day. So if we install a radiant heating system won't the homeowner be constantly turning the system off and on to the point where the system becomes inefficient from a green building perspective?

What do you think?

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

design competition announcement - Lifecycle Building Challenge

2007-02-15T00:24:25Z

The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, the American Institute of Architects, and their project partners have launched a design competition, which will definitely be of interest to the Emerging Green Builders. We hope that you will include the Lifecycle Building Challenge in announcements at your meetings and on your website, if you have one. Please let me know if you have questions or would like additional outreach materials to spread the word to your members about this exciting opportunity!

__________________________
CALL FOR ENTRIES!

Lifecycle Building Challenge <www.lifecyclebuilding.org>
designing this building, and the next ...

The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Building Materials Reuse Association, the American Institute of Architects, and West Coast Green invite professionals and students to participate in the Lifecycle Building Challenge, a competition seeking designs and ideas that facilitate adaptability, deconstruction, and reuse.

Registration closes on April 15, 2007.

In the United States, buildings consume 60% of total materials flow (excluding food and fuel) and construction and demolition waste accounts for about one third of total waste generated each year. With current building trends, over 27% of existing buildings will be replaced between 2000 and 2030, and over 50% of buildings in 2030 will have been built since 2000. Developing innovative design techniques now will make it easier to disassemble and reuse building materials in the future.

Students, architects, reuse experts, engineers, designers, planners, contractors, builders, educators, environmental advocates, and other interested parties nationwide are invited to submit designs and ideas that support disassembly and anticipate the future use of building materials in the following categories:

1) entire buildings
2) building components
3) tools and strategies

Outstanding entries in each category will be recognized, and top student designs will be rewarded $2500 from our sponsor Green Building Blocks. Free passes to West Coast Green, the largest residential green building conference in the country, will be provided to all winning entrants.

For more information, examples, and registration please visit www.lifecyclebuilding.org.

Lifecycle Building Challenge
Email: info@lifecyclebuilding.org
Website: http://www.lifecyclebuilding.org

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Call For Makers!

2007-02-02T19:17:56Z

Dear Makers,

We are pleased to announce Bay Area Maker Faire 2007!

Organized by the staff of MAKE and CRAFT magazines, Maker Faire is a newfangled fair that brings together science, art, craft an engineering in a fun, energized, and exciting public forum. The aim is to inspire people of all ages to roll up their sleeves and become makers. This family-friendly event showcases the amazing work of all kinds of makers--anyone who is embracing DIY and wants to share their accomplishments with an appreciative audience. Last year, we had 20,000 people at Maker Faire.

Maker Faire Bay Area will take place May 19-20, 2007 at the San Mateo Fairgrounds. We are also adding Maker Faire Austin for October 20-21, 2007 at the Travis County Fairgrounds. This call is primarily for Maker Faire Bay Area but you can indicate if you are interested in participating in Maker Faire Austin.

We encourage you to join the fun and propose a maker exhibit, performance or workshop. You can submit a proposal through the web using the link described below or you can come show us your work at a Maker Faire "audition" on Saturday, February 24 at TechShop in Menlo Park, CA.

http://www.makerfaire.com

Proposals: We invite proposals for Maker workbench exhibits, workshops, presentations and performances for the Maker Faire. We are interested in proposals from individuals as well as from groups such as hobbyist clubs and schools.

Maker Workbench: Our standard setup for Makers is a six-foot long workbench. You can use this workbench to display your work and/or demonstrate how you make something. Some makers don't need workbenches, typically because they have a large object or they set up outside. Please provide a short description of what you make and what you will bring to Maker Faire. Please link to photographs or videos of what you make. Let us know about any requirements you have, such as electricity, Internet, ventilation, etc.

Interactive Performance: We're seeking performances that will engage and entertain the attendees and enable them to interact in a fun way. The performances may be tied to a stage or roving through the fairgrounds as a kind of street theatre. Performances could be musical or theatrical, but they could also be a collaborative building process. For example, you might work with attendees to put something large together in an hour.

Presentation: These includes audio-visual presentations intended for showing a project (or process) that cannot be brought to the faire, or a special project that requires AV resources. These presentations are limited to 20 minutes. Please describe the topic of your presentation and what kind of media (audio/video) that you will have. As a general rule, PowerPoint presentations are not appropriate for this event unless they are unusually entertaining.

Demonstration Workshop: A demonstration workshop is a show-and-tell session on how to make something. We're looking for makers who can demonstrate (and teach) particular skills, techniques or processes. You should start off by explaining your materials and tools and then step-through a build process, sharing your knowledge and interacting with the audience. Sessions should be under 30 minutes in length and may be repeated on the program. Please describe the subject of your workshop and what kind of setup you need for it.

Application Form: Please go to the following URL and fill it out to apply for participation as a maker. http://makerfaire.com/bayarea/2007/proposal/

All proposals will be reviewed and we will notify makers of acceptance via email by March 19, 2007.

NOTE: Presenters whose talks are accepted will receive free registration to Maker Faire. We cannot pay for travel and accommodations. (We do make exceptions under some circumstances.) If you have any questions about participating in Maker Faire, please contact Natalie Villalobos by email: info@makerfaire.com. Please let Natalie know if you plan to come to the audition at TechShop.

Key Points:

* Maker Proposal Due: Midnight (PST): Feb. 27, 2007

* Maker Faire Bay Area Audition: Saturday Feb. 24, 2007

* Notification of Acceptance: March 19, 2006

* Confirmation of Participation: April 2, 2007

* Maker Faire Bay Area: May 19-20, 2007; Saturday 10-6 pm; Sunday 10-5pm.

* Maker Faire Austin: October 20 .. 21, 2007

* Application Form: http://makerfaire.com/bayarea/2007/proposal/

Commercial Exhibitors If you are a commercial maker or you work for a company that would like to exhibit at Maker Faire, please contact Sherry Huss sherry@oreilly.com.

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Solar Energy, The Momentum Has Started

2007-01-29T03:37:43Z

Solar energy is the most abundant natural resource we have, and that technology has been around for awhile, but it wasn't practical from a financial perspective until now. When we can provide the average homeowner with the ability to produce their own electricity and keep the saving instead of paying for Commercials, Stadiums and other corporate greed we are making headway.
There is a solution! I recently learned of a company that has figured out how to get Clean, Safe, Affordable Solar Power to the masses, and they do it without requiring any significant investment on the part of the homeowner. This company is helping homeowners switch to solar the easy way through a rental agreement. The customer gets a worry free solar system custom designed for 100% of their current consumption of electricity & an electric rate that is frozen at or below today's rate for up to 25 years. Let’s do something, we can be part of the solution and not be part of the problem. This program is an easy way that you can have an impact on the environment and our pocket book. http://www.jointhesolution.com/2renu

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Re: Introductions Add: Resources

2007-01-29T02:10:39Z

That was a sweet post! All of you seem very energized and productive. I started this new post because I don't want to interrupt the introductions. I'd like to read more of them!

My education was in sound synthesis and I remember how amazing the books that came from my instructors were compared to anything available at major retail stores.

Anyway, I am having a hard time finding books and resources on green building. I am not a student. Could some of you that are currently or have gone through instruction on these topics PLEASE share your favorite books and resources for learning. Retail bookstores don't seem to have anything!

Maybe, just name the topic that you specialize in and list books to help educate others. please please please...

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 4 replies

NPR: Justice Talking program

2006-12-28T19:08:09Z

check out http://www.justicetalking.org/viewprogram.asp?progID=578 and specifically listen to "One Man's Future" toward the bottom of the page. I was inspired on this practical, accessible approach:
Reporter Brad Linder travels to New Jersey to meet the builder of the nation's first 100 percent hydrogen fuel cell and solar powered house.
Tired of waiting for government and industry, Mike Strizki decided to show what one determined New Jerseyan could do. Strizki's house became the first residence in the United States to run entirely on a combination of hydrogen fuel cells and solar panels. He lives with his wife and three children in a zero emissions house in East Amwell, about an hour from New York City.

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Contracts for international worktrades?

2006-12-28T17:23:58Z

Greetings,

I am in the process of arranging a worktrade position for teaching cob construction to employees at a private ranch in Costa Rica. I am providing my services in exchange for food, room and board, and transportation to/from/during Costa Rica.

Are there any examples or guides on what an appropriate and legal contract should be for an international worktrade position such as this one? I would greatly appreciate any feedback and suggestions that you may have on this topic, and/or working in Costa Rica in general.

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Yahoo group for green building professionals

2006-11-06T16:16:55Z

To separate our social lives from our professional lives and welcome colleagues not on Tribe, I have started a Yahoo group for us to further ecological building:

http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/EcologicalBuilding/

Consider joining.

Thanks,
~Rev. ttt

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Wolfhouse-CA Indian

2006-10-20T16:57:56Z

(Wolfhouse Productions is a Califonia NDN owned and run organization)

SONOMA, CA Nov. 5 /WPPNews/ -- Wolfhouse Productions , Sonoma Valley's own rock concert and cultural arts promoters will host an ALL AGES show, in the “Roots Against War” music series, at the Sonoma Community Center inside historic Andrews Hall located at 276 East Napa Street in Sonoma, CA. Headliners will be Koolarrow Records recording artist FLATTBUSH from Long Beach, CA; REDFALL, from San Jose, CA. and back by demand, ESKAPO, from Vallejo, CA Showtime is 1:00PM to 5:00PM. Cost of admission is $5.00 dollars at the door with student ID Adults will pay $6.00 . Give-away that Bass Guitar Proudly we announce Vincent " Daddy” D’ Maggio, the bass player for one of the hardest working METAL bands in the bay area CHRONIC NARCOSIS will donate a custom Winter (W404) 4-string bass with a AAA flamed-maple black stained finish, thru-neck design with active electronics. Vincent 'Daddy' D'Maggio is a double-attack, having performed over 900 times live as a bassist and vocalist. Daddy's right hand was clocked at playing 684 notes per minute. Daddy uses his fingers to play because it is more manly to hit strings with meat rather than plastic. Daddy is sponsored by Winter Guitars. Yep a great musician with a great HEART!

ON NOV 5th Buy a ticket for a random drawing - win that Winter Bass Guitar valued at $900. bones. This is a concert to benefit The Guadalupe Cultural Arts and Education Center, Guadalupe, California. G.C.A.E.C. is a non-profit Cultural Arts Center located in one of the poorest and most marginalized communities in California's Central Coast. GCAEC services the 85% spanish speaking community with cultural arts and environmental education, services and events for Vietnam Veterans and is pro-active supporters of the artist community in "north county" in one of the richiest counties in the state, Santa Barbara. This Center does not recieve grants from private foundations or funds from U.S. Government. To learn more about GCAEC go to : www.guadalupecultural-arts.com "Your Silence Will Not Protect You" ...Audre Lorde JOIN THE ROOTS AGAINST WAR MUSIC SERIES AND PLAY MUSIC TO STOP THE WAR:: FIGHT TO STOP THE WAR AGAINST OUR MOTHER EARTH. STOP ENVIRONMENTAL DEVASTATION:: STOP ENVIRONMENTAL RACISIM. no more war on Indigenous Lands

UPCOMING!
We've got O.G. NDN blues bands playing on the same stage as PUNK ROCKERS and METAL. ON DECEMBER 8th come join Wolfhouse Productions and listen to some seriously angry punkers from the militarized coast of Sonora, Mexico ~ also Wagon Burner from Pala and roots/funk & original music by the Mission Blues Band - MORE BANDS TBA. This is an all California NDN line-up and is still in the making. Events will include film and video showings; speakers; feast for performers and guests! Bands interested in playing on Dec 8th (and around that weekend) are encouraged to contact Wolfhouse with press kits or e-mail their web-addresses with MP3's::If you are in the Bay area or the nor-Cal:: come to Sonoma on Nov 5th and bring your press Pkct&demo then!
Wolfhouse is California NDN owned and run

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Retaining walls

2006-10-13T22:47:22Z

Does anyone have drawings or images of different types of retaining walls?
I'm also interested in alternative materials as retaining wall.
I need this information for a Design/Build orphanage that I'm doing in Sri Lanka.

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Stacked Rainbarrel issues

2006-05-19T16:06:28Z

So I have installed two stacked rainbarrel systems and they are having some issues and I was wondering if anyone out there might have some suggestions/ideas. I have taken HDPE 55 gallon barrels with two bung fittings in them and laid them on their side and connected them together at the bungs (see picture on my profile). Two things have happened. First where the barrels are sitting on the metal pallet racking they are becoming seriously indented. I will have to create more of a saddle for the barrels next time. Any suggestions?
More importantly, I have found that after a while the barrels will become full, but no water will come out of the bottom valve when opened. I thought there was an issue of an air lock, so I put air vents on the system to let air out. This did not work. Any suggestions? Thanks for your time and help. Brad.

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Stacked Rainbarrel issues

2006-05-18T21:07:19Z

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

May 6 - DC Petrocollapse Conference - Surviving Peak Oil: Culture Change and Post-Petroleum Sustainable Living!

2006-04-23T07:09:13Z

* The May 6th DC Petrocollapse Conference - www.petrocollapse.org

SURVIVING PEAK OIL: ECONOMIC DOOM OR TRANSFORMATION?
Culture Change and Sustainable Post-Petroleum Living *

~ Sponsored by Culture Change -- culturechange.org ~

You are invited to attend!
All Souls Unitarian Church
16th and Harvard Streets, NW, Washington D.C.
Adams Morgan (Red) or Columbia Heights (Green) Metro Stations
Saturday, May 6, 2006 9 am - 7 pm
Register online now! petrocollapse.org

FEATURING DC PREMIER OF NEW DOCUMENTARY FILM:
"The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil"

The sudden effects of perpetual oil shortage are likely to strike within
the next three years. Are we prepared? Sponsored by Culture Change, the
DC Conference will present the facts behind the hype about Peak Oil,
explore the root factors of our present "oil-addicted" condition,
AND envision the strategies that we need to bypass unhelpful institutional
barriers and achieve post-Peak Oil economic sustainability.

Speakers at the DC Petrocollapse Conference will include the most widely
read peak-oil author, Richard Heinberg. Experts on peak oil, small-scale
agriculture and alternative energy will discuss "petrocollapse," the imminent
failure of the petroleum infrastructure to continue to provide the myriad goods
and services that our consumer economy has grown accustomed to. Multimedia
presentations and multiple films will demonstrate solutions to the audience.

Listen to online interview about DC Petrocollapse Conference!
http://globalpublicmedia .com/interviews/693

DC PETROCOLLAPSE CONFERENCE SPEAKERS INCLUDE:
*Albert Bates, Global Ecovillage Network; author
*Richard Heinberg Author, The Party's Over and Powerdown
*Jan Lundberg, Oil industry analyst; CultureChange.org
*Diana Leafe Christian, Communities Magazine
*John Darnell, Ph.D Energy advisor
*Faith Morgan & Pat Murphy, Community Solution, Inc.
*Michael Kane, From the Wilderness publications
*Mark Robinowitz, OilEmpire.us; author, Permatopia
*Joel Salatin, Organic Agriculturalist, PolyFaceFarms.com
*Jenna Orkin, Moderator, World Trade Center Environmental Organization

YOU ARE INVITED TO ATTEND!

Register online via PayPal at petrocollapse.org /register.html

Scholarships, work exchange arrangements, and "sliding scale"
options are available for students, activists, and others!
Send us an email with the details of your situation, and/or
what time or energy you may have for volunteer activity
for the conference. Send to conferences@culturechange.org

Registration cost of $100 will pay for lunch
AND attendance at a special noontime press
conference. "Sliding scale" options ($10 - $99)
are also available.

Please contact the registration coordinator -- Ethan Genauer --
if you have any problems registering, or for more details,
by email at : ethan@culturechange.org

For more information, see petrocollapse.org and
the DC Petrocollapse press release below

*********

MEDIA ALERT -- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DC Culture Change Conference: May 6, 2006
All Souls Church, Unitarian 16th & Harvard, Washington, D.C

A conference on the effects of peak oil and the growing global energy
crisis will take place in Washington, DC on May 6th at the All Souls
Church, Unitarian from 9 A.M. to 7 P.M. Speakers include popular
peak-oil author Richard Heinberg.

Conference organizer and speaker Jan Lundberg is a former oil industry
analyst who ran the market research firm Lundberg Survey. Lundberg,
who quit serving the oil industry so he could put his knowledge to use to
protect the environment, says "M. King Hubbert, who developed the
theory of peak oil, observed that we do not have an energy crisis but
rather a culture crisis. This fits with the theme of the Washington DC
Culture Change Conference that there is no technofix for our energy
dilemma. Society will have to bring about a closer level of community and
rediscover what local economics are about."

The May 6th Petrocollapse Conference will feature Richard Heinberg,
the most-read peak oil author (The Party's Over, and Powerdown).
Films and music will be also offered as part of a varied program to
stimulate discussion and action by attendees. Heinberg and Lundberg
and others will perform music including oil-satire songs. Films will include
premiers of "Our Synthetic Sea" (plastics pollution in oceans) and
"The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil."

Lundberg says the Culture Change Conference asks, "What we can do in
advance of the social upheaval and chaos that may produce a 'national
New Orleans,' to prepare or mitigate? What will the future look like during
and after a transition to non-petroleum living?"

For more information, see petrocollapse.org

Contact Conference Coordinator - Ethan@CultureChange.org

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

cob opportunity

2006-04-03T03:04:50Z

This is free opportunity for people to work and learn cob the house we are building this summer in south central Colorado starting late May. House is 1/3 done and I have a great mixer to speed up the work. Lots of land for camping and we will feed you. Please inquire through tribe. Hope to see you.

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Nor Cal non-profit hosts event in SF for emerging green builders

2006-02-02T23:35:19Z

The Oregon Creek Advocacy (OCA) is hosting a free event for prospective members and volunteers. The event, which is open to the public, will discuss our mission, explain volunteer opportunities for summer 2006 (including a green building workshop), and provide a forum for the OCA staff to answer all of your questions.

Location: Distillery 209
Pier 50 Shed B, San Francisco, CA (this is in China Basin)
When: Friday, February 24, 6:00pm to 9:00pm

We will briefly hear from a few speakers who have been involved with a variety of facets of the OCA. Our keynote speaker is Peter Berg, founder of Planet Drum, a leading bioregional organization in San Francisco. Peter will speak about the importance of bioregionalism and stewardship in the environmental movement.

In addition, don't miss the groovy tunes with DJ Brad Robinson, and video footage from past events, as well as the *free* libations and snacks. We hope you can join us and explore the OCA!

We encourage you to invite friends who might be interested in the OCA. Please feel free to invite as many people as you want! for more info check out our website at www.oregoncreekadvocacy.org

link to evite:
http://www.evite.com/pages/invite/viewInvite.jspinviteId=KOMCKXRDEBHXBZWMFHAU&src=email

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Tree Spheres

2006-01-30T05:40:39Z

Just watched a show tonight on the Science Channel about Tree Sphere houses. So I look it & the guy who builds them and came up with this site. These are great & believe they can be done even bigger.

http://www.freespiritspheres.com

/|\ Gypsy /|\

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Cob Construction

2006-01-17T00:44:50Z

We are planning to build a cob fence in our front yard. Ray Cirino of Cob-a-Nation will be holding classes to teach us and others about this sustainable resource. Is there anyone in the West Los Angeles area that would be interested in attending a class? please let me know.
marcy@personalcreations.net

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

green builders/remodelers in austin

2006-01-13T17:06:02Z

Hi,

I'm looking to learn solar/green building/remodeling in austin on the job. 5+ years remodeling helper, may start a cool solar install soon as well. Word is you have to specialize, and if so, I'd like to compliment solar install with passive solar. That said, I'm interested in working with general green building/remodeling folks. Please respond on thread if pointing to resources or message me if you have a specific project so I can get e-mail notification.

Thanks,

Carey

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

looking for lead carpenter for sustainable ecovillage project

2006-01-06T23:02:51Z

Godstream Techonolgies is currently looking for a lead carpenter interested helping build a sustainable ecovillage in Arlington, WA.

Please visit our website at http://www.godstreamtech.com to get a feel
for what we are into. You can visit the ecovillage site by clicking on Armstrong Creek Community under the "projects" page.

We know the right person is out there! If you are inspired to be part of our team, please send your resume to mish@godstreamtech.com

Thanks, and have a lovely day!

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Visionaries! Artists! Builders!

2006-01-06T22:59:31Z

Have a vision? Need the money? I want to nurture green builders and green buildings. I am a loan officer with SOMA based Fidelity Capital Funding. I have multiple lenders for your visonary project-including commercial lenders and SBA money. My interest in green building stems from my lifelong interest in the work of the Austrian artist/builder Hundertwasser.

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Green Builders Wanted

2005-12-27T12:22:18Z

I am a realestate developer looking for green, sustainable home builders that can build non toxic homes on time and on budget ($80 per square foot finnished). Areas of development are New Mexico, Nevada and Arizona. Serious players only please.

Arrow

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Interior Tropical Plants and Flowers

2005-12-27T12:01:39Z

Design, install, and maintain interior tropical plants and flowers for corporate buildings, hotels, restaurants, ect. Provide short and long term rentals,lease or purchse options, elaborate holiday displays, and special event packages. Network with architects, interior designers, Green Building members, facility managers, and more. Our mission is to enhance the quality of occupants working environment by bringing nature indoors. Recent studies show most people spend up to 90% of their time indoors, with long term exposure to chemical vapors that have major threats to health. Evidence shows plants can indeed clean the air and improve overall moral in the workplace.

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

???Anyone Apprenticed @ Cal-Earth???

2005-12-21T05:29:39Z

thinking of going to meet nadir khalili and studying his building style...thread sharing on this?

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 3 replies

looking for work with green builders in oregon

2005-12-15T21:44:23Z

Howdy,

I'm looking for a company who does green building in southern oregon, preferably in the Ashland area... any tips?

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Whale Slaughter in YOUR Shopping Cart?

2005-12-03T01:46:10Z

Hey,
Thanks for adding me to your friend group.
I want to take this opportunity to tell you about our newest action!

Many of us grew up watching the Gorton's fisherman commercials, and listening to the jingle, "Trust the Gorton's fisherman." Many of us also grew up gorging ourselves on fish sticks. But today, I know I CAN'T trust the Gorton's fisherman, because he's been supporting whale slaughter since 2001.

Gorton's of Gloucester is now a wholly owned subsidiary of a Japanese whaling company. Each year, Gorton's parent company kills hundreds of whales </a></b> in the name of scientific research, thanks to a loophole in the international ban on commercial whaling. This year it has announced plans to double the number of whales it kills, including the endangered fin whale, and next year it plans to slaughter endangered humpback whales too.
Take Action! http://usactions.greenpeace.org/action/start.php?action_id=72&ref_source=tribewhale . Tell Gorton's to reel in its Japanese parent company and help put an end to whale slaughter

P.S. My friend Nathan is onboard the Esperanza right now, helping to protect whales from Japanese whalers in the Southern Ocean. Please support our efforts to protect these gentle giants, and read more about Nathan's experiences on his blog: http://members.greenpeace.org/gpblog/index.php?blog=858&title=how_things_come_round_in_life&more=1&c=1&tb=1&pb=1

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

photovoltaic and other

2005-11-20T18:44:28Z

I am seeking information on how to set up... what I need. ..and how to make myself energy efficient...by cutting off the electric company which I havent hooked-up yet. Can anyone tell me where a novice can get good info on how to build...and how to determine how large system is needed. etc for complete solar electrical system.

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 2 replies

carbon dioxide in cement production

2005-11-16T22:24:26Z

http://www.iitap.iastate.edu/gccourse/chem/gases/gases_lecture.html

Another source of carbon dioxide in the earth's atmosphere is the emission from cement plants (figure 6). Carbonaceous material used for making cement releases significant amounts of carbon dioxide in creating the final product. This source of carbon dioxide will come up again in our discussion of sustainable development, since cement for roads, bridges, buildings, power and manufacturing plants is a key ingredient for economic development. Of particular interest are countries such as China and India that have such enormous potential for development.

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

THURSDAY: register to take part in Day of Action and Save Forests

2005-10-31T17:52:58Z

Friends,

It's been heartwarming to see how many communities are signing up to take action to stop forest destruction on November 3rd. Kleenex sells 180 billion sheets of tissue paper each year and NOT ONE of them has any recycled content. They're turning 10,000 year old forests into disposable products.

Because of corporations like Kleenex parent company Kimberly-Clark, great ancient forests such as North America's Boreal -- home to caribou, wolves and eagles -- are clear-cut every day. Because of people like you, we have a chance to stop it.

>>If you haven't already, please sign up to join one of the more than 120 events scheduled for Thursday's day of action.<< www.kleercut.net/nov3events

>From Asheville to Knoxville, Williamsburg to Wichita, and Seattle to San Diego, folks will be out on the streets educating consumers and pressuring Kimberly-Clark. Here are just a few examples.

Rohini is organizing university students at CSU Fullterton in California. But she doesn't go to school there—she's in high school! That's not stopping her from coordinating a Tissue Challenge. "We're dressing up as market researchers in lab coats and glasses to challenge people to tell the difference between Kleenex and a forest-friendly tissue."

And then there's Cheryl in Williamsburg, VA, where she is holding the Mom's Protest. To celebrate her daughter's birthday (Greenpeace's own forest campaigner Ginger Cassady), she's taking part in the day of action during her lunch hour with friends, colleagues, and a couple of priests. The entourage will visit the local grocery store to flyer, petition, and discuss alternative products with the manager.

Please RSVP for an event near you on our online events center. Or host an event yourself! Sign up to spend an hour outside of a grocery store—we have downloadable flyers, petitions, and a letter to the store manager that you can deliver. Those materials and more are available on our day of action events center.

Kimberly-Clark and Kleenex are wiping out three million tons of virgin forests each year for products we use once and throw away. Don't let them flush our future down the toilet. Sign up for the day of action today.

Feel free to email usa@kleercut.net if you have any questions or need advice. And be sure to check out http://www.kleercut.net for more info.

PS…If you haven’t already, don’t forget to visit our action center to send a message to Kimberly-Clark!

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Kleenex=Kleercut: HELP SAVE ENDANGERED FORESTS

2005-10-15T15:06:10Z

Did you know that Kleenex sells 180 billion sheets of tissue paper each year and not one of them has any recycled content? Kleenex even goes as far as to boast on their website that their tissues are made from 100% virgin fiber. Look for yourself on the FAQs on their web page. Kleenex and parent corporation Kimberly-Clark are felling forests that are thousands of years old to make products we use once and flush away.

Send them a message today! www.kleercut.net/sendamessage

Check out the campaign page: Kleercut
www.greenpeace.org/usa

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Handywomen Sought

2005-09-23T01:30:23Z

Blue Star Builders is a group of skilled trades-women who wish to help rebuild in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Our goal is to rebuild the homes (using “green building” techniques)of two older, lesbian women of New Orleans—women who have lost everything in recent Gulf Coast disaster. Blue Star Builders was founded by two women from the California Bay Area and consists of concerned members of the gay community from throughout the United States. Every member of our crew will volunteer their skills and time. All money for, and materials donated to, this effort will be put directly in to covering the costs of this project.
If you are interested in joining the BSB team in any aspect please email us at bluestarbuilders@gmail.com

thanks!
Jes Muse
Head Handy Dandy & Co-Founder

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

Landscaper Needed in Oakland

2005-09-20T22:26:53Z

Hello All:
I need a recommendation for a reliable landscaper for my client's project in Oakland.

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Rebuilding New Orleans green

2005-09-17T00:04:34Z

Hurricane survivors who have remained in the Algiers
neighborhood of New Orleans are determined to remain,
rebuild their city with environmental awareness and a
social conscience. They have set up the first
functioning medical clinic for ordinary people, and
have other projects in hand. http://www.rebuildgreen.org/

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 2 replies

Events Blog -

2005-09-13T05:49:46Z

Check out the blog below for the best Emerging Green Builder and Bay Area Green Building Events. Highlights include:

Sept 14th - Sim Van der Ryn Lecture
Sept 20th - Co-Housing Lecture & Brainstorm with Kathryn McCamant
3-Month Events Calendar for US Green Building Council's Bay Area Chapter
Plus much, much more....

www.egb-ncc.blogspot.com

Cheers,
Tripp Borstel
EGB USGBC Co-Chair

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 0 replies

green / scrap house

2005-09-12T05:11:18Z

Not so young--this used to be called Woodstock or handmade house. Anyhow--I'm getting ready to build my first "scrap house" and would like any imput suggestions and pitfalls before I really get started. I already have my land. Thanks

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Green Building Costs

2005-07-12T22:35:45Z

Does anyone know of a study or data cost comparison between a green built home and a conventional build home. We are looking for hard data that says building green costs $x while building conventional costs $x.

Greg

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 3 replies

Veteran US conservationist dies

2005-07-04T04:51:10Z

Gaylord Nelson, a former US senator who founded the Earth Day environmental movement, has died at the age of 89.

Mr Nelson served three terms as a Democrat senator for Wisconsin, and won wide acclaim for Earth Day, a day of activism held every year on 22 April.

He was credited with helping establish environmental protection legislation in the US, and won a presidential medal of freedom from Bill Clinton in 1995.

Mr Nelson died of heart failure at his home in a suburb of Washington DC.

His wife Carrie Lee Nelson, who he married in 1947, was alongside him, Mr Nelson's biographer said.

Campaigner

After 14 years in Wisconsin politics, Gaylord Nelson was elected to the US Senate in 1962, where he pushed conservation policies until he was defeated in 1980.

He founded Earth Day as an environmental demonstration in the tradition of peaceful protests that had sprung up against the Vietnam War.

Some 20 million people joined in the first Earth Day in 1970, which helped educate people in the US and beyond on environmental issues.

Each year Earth Day encourages people to join recycling programmes and carry out other environmental work.

Mr Nelson vigorously pushed environmental causes in the Senate, and was involved in several key pieces of legislation.

Awarding the presidential medal in 1995, then President Bill Clinton described Mr Nelson "the grandfather" of a raft of legislation, including the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act and the Safe Drinking Water Act.

After losing his Senate seat, Mr Nelson joined the Wilderness Society, often focusing his concern on population issues.

Mr Nelson leaves two sons and a daughter.

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Next Generation Architects - INFORUM at the U.C. Berkeley College of Environmental Design

2005-06-22T21:28:50Z

Sustainability: Architecture in harmony with its environment

"Extracting the most appropriate solution to a given site. Digging into the earth and building a building is a sacred act. Our process begins by camping on the site. It's amazing to see and feel everything in an immediate sense. Taking the care to extract the important information. ...physically, socially, culturally, the given microclimate..."

INFORUM at the U.C. Berkeley College of Environmental Design

Next Generation Architects

panel: Josh Aidlin, Raveevarn Choksombatchai, Byron Kuth, Lisa Iwamoto
moderator: Andrew Wagner

http://www.commonwealthclub.org/archive/04/04-11architects-audio.html

originally broadcast 11-18-04 by the The Commonwealth Club (San Francisco)

real audio archives of other speakers:
http://www.commonwealthclub.org/archive/index.html?sortby=date-ascend&fromtime=1072857600&totime=1104480000#listings

__________________________________________________________________

Josh Aidlin - Aidlin-Darling Design
http://www.aidlin-darling-design.com/index2.html

Raveevarn Choksombatchai - LOOM - U.C. Berkeley Architecture faculty
http://arch.ced.berkeley.edu/ced_people/faculty/details.cfm?EmpID=136

Byron Kuth - Kuth/Ranieri Architects
http://www.kuthranieri.com/

Lisa Iwamoto - Iwamoto Scott Architecture - U.C. Berkeley Architecture faculty
http://arch.ced.berkeley.edu/ced_people/faculty/details.cfm?EmpID=147

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trade schools

2005-05-28T02:35:45Z

has anyone found a good trade school for eco building that can lead to a contractors liscence?

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ScrapHouse San Francisco: E.G.B. want to have a shindig?

2005-05-18T20:34:12Z

I'm not sure how many of you are in the bay area...would you like to use the house for an evening gathering June 2, 3, or 4?

www.scraphouse.org

Rachel
rachel@scraphouse.org

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ScrapHouse San Francisco: Volunteers needed 5/31-6/5

2005-05-10T00:37:43Z

Howdy. As part of World Environment Day, a team of green builders, architects, engineers, city officials and artists are blitz-building a 850 sq ft exhibition home in San Francisco's Civic Center Plaza. And...we're building it entirely out of scrap and recyled materials while doing our level best to get as many LEEDS points as possible.

We'll be open to the public June 1-5 and need docents to help educate our vistors on green building and re-use issues.

Docent training will take place the last week of May. Docents will need to be available for several shifts during the first week of June.

If this sounds good to you, please send a letter of interest to rachel@scraphouse.org, and include daytime and evening contact information.

Thanks!

Rachel

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Ecopalooza Green Living Expos

2005-04-11T06:31:02Z

Hey,

Check out
http://ecopalooza.tribe.net/
http://www.ecopalooza.com

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New Tribe!! Solar Architecture

2005-01-16T01:41:13Z

A place to discuss all aspects of Solar Architecture. Share insights, pictures and experiences with others looking to design or build in both residential and commercial applications. Share resources and ideas.

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Global Relocalization – A Call to Action

2005-01-06T06:44:34Z

Join this very important call to action!

"The imminent peaking of global oil production and the fact that natural gas production has already peaked in North America could be the catalyst for positive transformation of industrial society. It could also be a recipe for disaster...
"...seeking like-minded organizations, volunteers, and activists to create a coalition to support community relocalization projects and experiments, as well as online database access and community tools that can help streamline the relocalization process. We are also organizing conferences and creating a speakers bureau with energy, biosphere, and localization experts to help spread the word."

Check this link for full article and a list of ways you can get involved!
http://www.postcarbon.org/index.php?page=relocalization

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documentaries about green building?

2004-09-05T16:29:29Z

Hello group,

I am interested in documentaries about environmental issues. My biggest interest is in those that are about business and lifestyle strategies that are good for the environment. I was wondering if people on this listserv had seen any documentaries of this kind (or about environmental issues in general) that they recommend. I showed my mom Bill McDonough
and Michael Braungart's "The Next Industrial Revolution" documentary. She told me afterwards that she thought McDonough was a little cocky and she did not like his bowtie but that he explained things very clearly and that the film really made her understand some of the ideas I had told her about that I study! In this era of Michael Moore and other
such actors documentary films seem especially revelavent.

Some films I have seen are below. Please add to the list if you know of
good ones...

1. The Next Industrial Revolution (available at http://www.thenextindustrialrevolution.org/)
2. Biomimicry
3. The Corporation
4. Exporting Harm (documentary about e-waste in China)

check it out (unrelated) - www.tsdesigns.com - organic cotton apparel
that is grown COLORED (Sally Fox's breed); the company uses a worker's
cooperative, uses solar power for their offices and uses fast food
grease to run their cars

thanks!

Matt

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Lecture?

2004-03-31T16:45:37Z

Hey- does anyone know where the Friday lecture will be held? I heard it was the CCAC at seven... but it has been a while.... Thanks, Carey

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Sustainable Real Estate Listings?

2004-02-18T02:18:28Z

From their website:

http://www.greenbuilder.com/realestate/

"Sustainably built homes are the wave of the future, and some have technology so new that realtors may not yet be up to speed. Help your realtor get moving fast by listing in Sustainable Sources. Your ad will be seen by people who know green building. As a long time leader in green building information, Sustainable Sources is uniquely positioned to connect buyers with sellers."

A search in California yielded two results:

4/2, Mill Valley, Strawbale, 1944 sq ft. - $899,000
5/3, Concord, Strawbale, 2700 sq ft. - $499,500

I suppose the prices are consistent with property in those areas, but I'd question the "sustainable" tag.

posted in Emerging Green Builders - 1 reply

Why do we live in San Francisco?

2004-02-17T22:39:09Z

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2003/11/30/BUGPU3ASC51.DTL"

Article on history and organizations that make SF a special place.

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