Going abroad on holiday is probably one of the worst things we can do to the environment as individuals. We fly long distances, emitting greenhouse gases into the most sensitive parts of the atmosphere; we stay in hotels where linen … Continue reading
Author Archives: Amanda Woodman Hardy
Product Packaging: Reducing the Impact on the Environment
Packaging is used to protect a product. It is important not to compromise the safety of the product by improving the environmental credentials of the packaging so drastically that: the contents become unfit for consumption; shelf life is shortened leading … Continue reading
Biodegradable Packaging: What You Should Know
Biodegradable Packaging Biodegradable packaging is increasingly being used by companies to package their products. For example, some shops will have ‘biodegradable’ bags which aren’t as degradable as you might think. Biodegradable packaging generally covers plastics and some paper based materials. … Continue reading
Voluntary Carbon Offset Schemes
What is carbon offsetting? Carbon offsetting is the idea of compensating your carbon dioxide emissions by making a saving elsewhere. This can be done by voluntarily joining a carbon offset scheme. Carbon offset schemes offer a service to offset your … Continue reading
Biochar
What is biochar? Biochar is an interesting concept based on a fine-grained and porous form of charcoal. It is a practice that converts agricultural waste (biomass) into a soil enhancer that can hold carbon, boost food security and discourage deforestation … Continue reading
Tidal Power
What is tidal power? Tidal power has nothing to do with waves or wave power. Tidal power relies on the power of the incoming and outgoing tide to turn turbines, which produces electricity. Tidal power is a renewable and clean … Continue reading
Carbon Capture Storage: Issues and Debates
What is Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)? Carbon Capture and Storage, also known as CCS, is a relatively new method for burning coal in power stations, without releasing carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. The carbon dioxide is effectively captured by … Continue reading
Nuclear Power – The Glowing Elephant
As the reality of the dangers of anthropogenic global warming becomes increasingly apparent many governments are investing in new technologies to produce energy without the high atmospheric carbon cost of burning fossil fuels. Reading many environmental publications you are bound … Continue reading
Energy Performance of Buildings: A Beginner’s Guide to Directive 2002/91/EC
What is Directive 2002/91/EC? Directive 2002/91/EC is a piece of European legislation. Its aim is to improve the energy performance of buildings in the most cost-effective way, whilst still maintaining the practicality of the buildings. It covers the following areas: … Continue reading
An Introduction to Life Cycle Analysis for Businesses
Life cycle analysis is a term used to explain how much energy is used up creating, using and throwing away something. In the case of your business, it will be the product you make and sell to customers. By explaining … Continue reading
