Comprehensive clean energy and climate change legislation now before Congress could create 13,000 jobs in Montana by 2020 and would increase average household incomes in the state, according to research announced today by environmental groups.
The groups releasing the information include Climate Solutions and Montana Business Leaders for Clean Energy; CERES; the Clean Economy Network; and Environmental Entrepreneurs (E2).
According to the groups, “clean energy legislation would create 918,000 to 1.9 million new jobs nationally, and increase national GDP by $39 billion to $111 billion more than what would occur without the legislation.”
In Montana, passage of the legislation would increase the GDP by as much as $500 million a year, and could increase annual average household income by as much as $1,700, the study shows. (To read the study in full, go to E2’s list of individual states, and click on Montana.)
The research—a collaborative effort by the University of California, Yale University and the University of Illinois—looked at the impacts of the Clean Energy Jobs and American Power Act, which is being heard this week in the U.S. Senate’s Environment and Public Works Committee. The legislation calls for energy efficiency, renewable energy, and a cap-and-trade program for reducing carbon emissions.
Here are some highlights from the study, taken verbatim from the groups’ announcement:
–”Montana has significant and largely untapped potential renewable resources, particularly in wind power and biofuels.”
– “Energy efficiency provisions in the legislation will reduce the costs for transportation, heating, electricity, etc., saving households, farmers and ranchers, and businesses money—money they can spend on domestic goods and services and create jobs.”
–”Clean energy legislation will strengthen national security by reducing America’s dependence on imported fossil fuels.”
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Eco-Friendly Clothing To Save The Earth
Technology, industrialisation, plastic money etc, are terms generally associated with development but little do we remember that these same terms are also the cause of ecological degradation. A lot of natural products are exploited for all the modern amenities we enjoy in our day to day life, including our clothes. Today, Earth is endangered with constant exploitation of nature and thus, the term eco-friendly, has gained importance.
For most of us cotton clothes are the definition of eco-friendly clothing but the reality is different. In the process of growing cotton used in our clothes, a lot of pesticide are used which has an inverse effect on the agricultural land. It is also called green clothing and aims at using materials which do not harm the nature and is biodegradable.
Some of the regular products used to make eco-friendly clothing are -
Organic Cotton – There is no use of pesticides, herbicides or insecticides in the process of growing the crop. Plantation of organic cotton is gaining popularity in many parts of the world.
Bamboo Fabric – Such clothes are made out of Bamboo Pulp. It does not need chlorine to bleach it and can be dyed easily with the use of very less amount of water.
Natural Dyes – Usually, harsh chemicals are used to dye the dresses and the same waste is then disposed in rivers and land. This destroys the eco system. Natural dyes on the other hand uses natural products like heena, beet root, berries etc, to colour clothes. These do not have any bad effect on the environment and also has grown up to be a fashion trend.
Jute – Jute is yet another product used in eco-friendly clothing. The process of making jute clothes does not demand chemicals. Jute shoes are also a great alternative to leather. Leather, need a lot of chemicals to polish and a smooth finish, unlike jute.
Eco-friendly Clothing In India
Eco-friendly clothing has grown up to be a leading trend among people and specially with Top brands like Van Heusen, Benetton, Wills Lifestyle, Arrow etc, introducing green clothing, the trend is a hit among teenagers.
In India, this trend was heralded by designer Anita Dongre’s label Grassroot, in 2007. Van Heusen's, brand Mudura Garments, launched it's green clothing as an attempt and was an instant hit.
Levi's, famous for their organic jeans in US has now decided to launch the same in India. The jeans will be made out of organic cotton and natural dyes. The button, on the other hand will be made out of coconut shell.
If natural products are used for clothes all cross the globe, it can reduce the natural degradation to a large extent. So, go -green with your dressing, to save the Earth.
For most of us cotton clothes are the definition of eco-friendly clothing but the reality is different. In the process of growing cotton used in our clothes, a lot of pesticide are used which has an inverse effect on the agricultural land. It is also called green clothing and aims at using materials which do not harm the nature and is biodegradable.
Some of the regular products used to make eco-friendly clothing are -
Organic Cotton – There is no use of pesticides, herbicides or insecticides in the process of growing the crop. Plantation of organic cotton is gaining popularity in many parts of the world.
Bamboo Fabric – Such clothes are made out of Bamboo Pulp. It does not need chlorine to bleach it and can be dyed easily with the use of very less amount of water.
Natural Dyes – Usually, harsh chemicals are used to dye the dresses and the same waste is then disposed in rivers and land. This destroys the eco system. Natural dyes on the other hand uses natural products like heena, beet root, berries etc, to colour clothes. These do not have any bad effect on the environment and also has grown up to be a fashion trend.
Jute – Jute is yet another product used in eco-friendly clothing. The process of making jute clothes does not demand chemicals. Jute shoes are also a great alternative to leather. Leather, need a lot of chemicals to polish and a smooth finish, unlike jute.
Eco-friendly Clothing In India
Eco-friendly clothing has grown up to be a leading trend among people and specially with Top brands like Van Heusen, Benetton, Wills Lifestyle, Arrow etc, introducing green clothing, the trend is a hit among teenagers.
In India, this trend was heralded by designer Anita Dongre’s label Grassroot, in 2007. Van Heusen's, brand Mudura Garments, launched it's green clothing as an attempt and was an instant hit.
Levi's, famous for their organic jeans in US has now decided to launch the same in India. The jeans will be made out of organic cotton and natural dyes. The button, on the other hand will be made out of coconut shell.
If natural products are used for clothes all cross the globe, it can reduce the natural degradation to a large extent. So, go -green with your dressing, to save the Earth.
New innovations in Saving energy
Hotel offers free meal to guests who are willing to generate electricity >
The Crown Plaza Hotel in Copenhagen , Denmark , is offering a free meal to any guest who is able to produce electricity for the hotel on an exercise bike attached to a generator. Guests will have to produce at least 10 watt hours of electricity - roughly 15 minutes of cycling for someone of average fitness. They will then be given meal vouchers worth $36 (26 euros).
Disco pub gets electricity produced by people dancing at specially modified dance floor
All the flashing strobes and pounding speakers at the dance club are massive consumers of electrical power. So Bar Surya, in London, re-outfitted its floor with springs that, when compressed by dancers, could produce electrical current that would be stored in batteries and used to offset some of the club's electrical burden. The club's owner, Andrew Charalambous, said the dance floor can now power 60 percent of the club's energy needs.
Company creates a desktop printer that doesn't use ink nor paper
Who says printers only use paper to print documents? It's time for you to meet the PrePeat Printer then. Different from conventional printers, PrePeat adopts a thermal head to print on specially-made plastic sheets. These plastic sheets are not merely water-proof, but could be easily erased, just feed the sheets through the printer again, and a different temperature will erase everything or just write over it. Also claimed by the manufacturer, such one sheet could be used up to 1,000 times so that you'll reduce your expenses on paper for sure.
University constructs a green roof as a gathering place
Green design is an enormously popular trend in modern architecture, just take a look at this amazing green roof at the School of Art , Design and Media at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore . This 5-story facility sweeps a wooded corner of the campus with an organic, vegetated form that blends landscape and structure, nature and high-tech and symbolizes the creativity it houses. The roofs serve as informal gathering spaces challenging linear ideas and stirring perception. The roofs create open space, insulate the building, cool the surrounding air and harvest rainwater for landscaping irrigation. Planted grasses mix with native greenery to colonize the building and bond it to the setting.
Designer creates a sink that uses wasted water to grow a plant
Made of polished stained concrete, the Zen Garden Sink has a channel that allows the water used while washing your hands to water a plant. Created by young Montreal designer Jean-Michel Gauvreau the sink comes in single or double basin model. The sink is designed in a way you won't get your plants all soapy. There is a main drain at the bottom of the basin for soapy grime. Your little plant friend just gets whatever you choose to dole out.
Designer creates a shower that forces you to leave when you've wasted too much water
20% of our total domestic energy usage is from hot water for showering and bathing. That's over 6 times the energy usage of domestic lighting. So designer Tommaso Colia came up with his eco-friendly shower design that will force you to get out when you take too long and waste much water. The eco_drop shower features beautiful concentric circles that will rise to force you to stop showering when you take too long, and accordingly save water.
Designer creates light-switch that changes colors to teach children how to save energy
Teaching the importance of energy conservation is the goal of this design from Tim Holley. He calls it Tio, and it's a ghost-shaped light switch that gives kids a visual reminder of how much energy they've used by leaving lights on. Tio starts out green and smiling. If the light is left on for more than four hours, he turns yellow and looks shocked. And if you dare to leave that light on for more than eight hours, sweet little Tio turns into a raging red hulk, complete with frowny mouth and angry eyes. But he won't just visually remind your kids about their energy habits; information from the light switch is sent to Tio's computer program so the entire family can see how they're doing. In a brilliant piece of visual positive reinforcement, Holley's program lets kids grow a virtual tree which gets bigger and healthier the more energy they save.
Environmental company creates a staple-free stapler to avoid staple pollution
Staples are supposed to be so bad to the environment that a company decided to create a staple-free stapler. This product promises to make collation eco-friendly. Instead of using those thin metal planet-killers, the staple-free stapler "cuts out tiny strips of paper and uses the strips to stitch up to five pieces of paper together." You can even order them customized with your corporate logo so you can, you know, brag about what your company is doing to stop the staple epidemic.
Designer creates an iPhone charger powered by a hand grip
The Crown Plaza Hotel in Copenhagen , Denmark , is offering a free meal to any guest who is able to produce electricity for the hotel on an exercise bike attached to a generator. Guests will have to produce at least 10 watt hours of electricity - roughly 15 minutes of cycling for someone of average fitness. They will then be given meal vouchers worth $36 (26 euros).
Disco pub gets electricity produced by people dancing at specially modified dance floor
All the flashing strobes and pounding speakers at the dance club are massive consumers of electrical power. So Bar Surya, in London, re-outfitted its floor with springs that, when compressed by dancers, could produce electrical current that would be stored in batteries and used to offset some of the club's electrical burden. The club's owner, Andrew Charalambous, said the dance floor can now power 60 percent of the club's energy needs.
Company creates a desktop printer that doesn't use ink nor paper
Who says printers only use paper to print documents? It's time for you to meet the PrePeat Printer then. Different from conventional printers, PrePeat adopts a thermal head to print on specially-made plastic sheets. These plastic sheets are not merely water-proof, but could be easily erased, just feed the sheets through the printer again, and a different temperature will erase everything or just write over it. Also claimed by the manufacturer, such one sheet could be used up to 1,000 times so that you'll reduce your expenses on paper for sure.
University constructs a green roof as a gathering place
Green design is an enormously popular trend in modern architecture, just take a look at this amazing green roof at the School of Art , Design and Media at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore . This 5-story facility sweeps a wooded corner of the campus with an organic, vegetated form that blends landscape and structure, nature and high-tech and symbolizes the creativity it houses. The roofs serve as informal gathering spaces challenging linear ideas and stirring perception. The roofs create open space, insulate the building, cool the surrounding air and harvest rainwater for landscaping irrigation. Planted grasses mix with native greenery to colonize the building and bond it to the setting.
Designer creates a sink that uses wasted water to grow a plant
Made of polished stained concrete, the Zen Garden Sink has a channel that allows the water used while washing your hands to water a plant. Created by young Montreal designer Jean-Michel Gauvreau the sink comes in single or double basin model. The sink is designed in a way you won't get your plants all soapy. There is a main drain at the bottom of the basin for soapy grime. Your little plant friend just gets whatever you choose to dole out.
Designer creates a shower that forces you to leave when you've wasted too much water
20% of our total domestic energy usage is from hot water for showering and bathing. That's over 6 times the energy usage of domestic lighting. So designer Tommaso Colia came up with his eco-friendly shower design that will force you to get out when you take too long and waste much water. The eco_drop shower features beautiful concentric circles that will rise to force you to stop showering when you take too long, and accordingly save water.
Designer creates light-switch that changes colors to teach children how to save energy
Teaching the importance of energy conservation is the goal of this design from Tim Holley. He calls it Tio, and it's a ghost-shaped light switch that gives kids a visual reminder of how much energy they've used by leaving lights on. Tio starts out green and smiling. If the light is left on for more than four hours, he turns yellow and looks shocked. And if you dare to leave that light on for more than eight hours, sweet little Tio turns into a raging red hulk, complete with frowny mouth and angry eyes. But he won't just visually remind your kids about their energy habits; information from the light switch is sent to Tio's computer program so the entire family can see how they're doing. In a brilliant piece of visual positive reinforcement, Holley's program lets kids grow a virtual tree which gets bigger and healthier the more energy they save.
Environmental company creates a staple-free stapler to avoid staple pollution
Staples are supposed to be so bad to the environment that a company decided to create a staple-free stapler. This product promises to make collation eco-friendly. Instead of using those thin metal planet-killers, the staple-free stapler "cuts out tiny strips of paper and uses the strips to stitch up to five pieces of paper together." You can even order them customized with your corporate logo so you can, you know, brag about what your company is doing to stop the staple epidemic.
Designer creates an iPhone charger powered by a hand grip
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Google invests $38.8m in two US wind farms
Google invests $38.8m in two US wind farms
Internet search giant Google Inc has invested USD 38.8 million in two wind farms in North Dakota that generate enough energy to power more than 55,000 homes.
The investment in the wind farms, developed by NextEra Energy Resources, is Google's first direct investment in a utility-scale renewable energy project.
Google has so far invested in early-stage green start-ups such as solar thermal companies BrightSource Energy and eSolar.
"Through this USD 38.8 million investment, we're aiming to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy in a way that makes good business sense, too," Rick Needham, Google's green business operations manager, wrote in a blogpost on Monday.
Google has pushed ahead in addressing climate change issues as a philanthropic effort through its Google.org arm.
The often-quirky company said in late 2007 that it would invest in companies and do research of its own to produce affordable renewable energy -- at a price less than burning coal -- within a few years.
Separately, NextEra Energy, a subsidiary of Florida utility FPL Group Inc, said on Monday that it has sold about USD 190 million of Class B membership interests in Peace Garden Wind, windfarms that produce 169.5 megawatts of power in North Dakota.
NextEra Energy is the largest owner of wind farms in the United States with more than 7,500 megawatts of installed wind capacity, according to the American Wind Energy Association.
Internet search giant Google Inc has invested USD 38.8 million in two wind farms in North Dakota that generate enough energy to power more than 55,000 homes.
The investment in the wind farms, developed by NextEra Energy Resources, is Google's first direct investment in a utility-scale renewable energy project.
Google has so far invested in early-stage green start-ups such as solar thermal companies BrightSource Energy and eSolar.
"Through this USD 38.8 million investment, we're aiming to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy in a way that makes good business sense, too," Rick Needham, Google's green business operations manager, wrote in a blogpost on Monday.
Google has pushed ahead in addressing climate change issues as a philanthropic effort through its Google.org arm.
The often-quirky company said in late 2007 that it would invest in companies and do research of its own to produce affordable renewable energy -- at a price less than burning coal -- within a few years.
Separately, NextEra Energy, a subsidiary of Florida utility FPL Group Inc, said on Monday that it has sold about USD 190 million of Class B membership interests in Peace Garden Wind, windfarms that produce 169.5 megawatts of power in North Dakota.
NextEra Energy is the largest owner of wind farms in the United States with more than 7,500 megawatts of installed wind capacity, according to the American Wind Energy Association.
Small Business Owners Go Green for Environment
Small Business Owners Go Green for Environment
Columbus, Ohio As consumer demand for environmentally responsible products and services continues to grow, businesses can't simply call themselves green–they must actually do their part. According to a survey by Manta, the largest website on and for small businesses, more than 90 per cent of small businesses selling green products/services or implementing green practices in the workplace genuinely care about the environment. Forty-six per cent of the 421 respondents also cited consumer demand as a major reason for "going green", the second most popular reason for doing so. These results also suggest that green initiatives have become part of everyday business.
In light of the 40th anniversary of Earth Day and considering that approximately 80 percent of U.S. companies have nine employees or fewer (U.S. SBA & Census,) the Manta survey sought to discover how small businesses view environmental consciousness. The business owners surveyed all employ 100 people or fewer and have identified green initiatives on their claimed Manta profiles. Manta found that:
·79 per cent implement green practices in the workplace and also offer green products or services.
·79 per cent recycle or compost.
·76 per cent conserve energy by turning off lights or cooling and heating systems when not in use.
·31 per cent encourage taking public transportation, carpooling, walking or biking to work.
Despite high participation rates in low-cost green initiatives, small businesses want to do more for the planet and believe they need the government to support the cause.
·Only five per cent feel the government does enough to support small businesses taking on green initiatives.
·72 per cent believe the government doesn't do enough.
·43 per cent would like to receive cost incentives or tax breaks for being green.
·23 per cent would do more if there were better resources to make being green easier, such as in-building or curbside recycling and compost pickup.
"It's not surprising that small businesses have gone green," said Pamela Springer, Manta president and CEO. "Being innovative is part of their nature, and innovative practices often result in the production of environmentally friendly products and services. They have the right attitude about caring for the environment, and given that most businesses in the U.S. are small, they're bound to make a big difference in the long run. Hopefully the government will be inspired to implement the incentives many business owners need to go a step farther in protecting the planet".
With profiles of more than 64 million businesses and organizations, Manta is the Web's largest free source of information on and for small businesses. Manta aims to provide a free Web presence and networking capability for small business owners who may not have the resources to operate their own websites. With hard-to-find information such as estimated revenue, number of employees, company contacts, business descriptions and more, Manta enables business professionals to promote their companies and connect with the more than 14 million monthly visitors.
Survey Methodology
Manta surveyed its users using Zoomerang from April 13 to April 19, 2010, via email. The survey received 421 responses from small business owners whose companies were identified as having 100 employees or fewer and as employing some kind of green initiative in their workplace.
About Manta
Manta (www.manta.com) is the largest free source of information on small companies, with profiles of more than 64 million businesses and organizations. Business owners and sales professionals use Manta's vast database and custom search capabilities to quickly find companies, easily connect with prospective customers and promote their own services. Manta.com, founded in 2005, is based in Columbus, Ohio.
Columbus, Ohio As consumer demand for environmentally responsible products and services continues to grow, businesses can't simply call themselves green–they must actually do their part. According to a survey by Manta, the largest website on and for small businesses, more than 90 per cent of small businesses selling green products/services or implementing green practices in the workplace genuinely care about the environment. Forty-six per cent of the 421 respondents also cited consumer demand as a major reason for "going green", the second most popular reason for doing so. These results also suggest that green initiatives have become part of everyday business.
In light of the 40th anniversary of Earth Day and considering that approximately 80 percent of U.S. companies have nine employees or fewer (U.S. SBA & Census,) the Manta survey sought to discover how small businesses view environmental consciousness. The business owners surveyed all employ 100 people or fewer and have identified green initiatives on their claimed Manta profiles. Manta found that:
·79 per cent implement green practices in the workplace and also offer green products or services.
·79 per cent recycle or compost.
·76 per cent conserve energy by turning off lights or cooling and heating systems when not in use.
·31 per cent encourage taking public transportation, carpooling, walking or biking to work.
Despite high participation rates in low-cost green initiatives, small businesses want to do more for the planet and believe they need the government to support the cause.
·Only five per cent feel the government does enough to support small businesses taking on green initiatives.
·72 per cent believe the government doesn't do enough.
·43 per cent would like to receive cost incentives or tax breaks for being green.
·23 per cent would do more if there were better resources to make being green easier, such as in-building or curbside recycling and compost pickup.
"It's not surprising that small businesses have gone green," said Pamela Springer, Manta president and CEO. "Being innovative is part of their nature, and innovative practices often result in the production of environmentally friendly products and services. They have the right attitude about caring for the environment, and given that most businesses in the U.S. are small, they're bound to make a big difference in the long run. Hopefully the government will be inspired to implement the incentives many business owners need to go a step farther in protecting the planet".
With profiles of more than 64 million businesses and organizations, Manta is the Web's largest free source of information on and for small businesses. Manta aims to provide a free Web presence and networking capability for small business owners who may not have the resources to operate their own websites. With hard-to-find information such as estimated revenue, number of employees, company contacts, business descriptions and more, Manta enables business professionals to promote their companies and connect with the more than 14 million monthly visitors.
Survey Methodology
Manta surveyed its users using Zoomerang from April 13 to April 19, 2010, via email. The survey received 421 responses from small business owners whose companies were identified as having 100 employees or fewer and as employing some kind of green initiative in their workplace.
About Manta
Manta (www.manta.com) is the largest free source of information on small companies, with profiles of more than 64 million businesses and organizations. Business owners and sales professionals use Manta's vast database and custom search capabilities to quickly find companies, easily connect with prospective customers and promote their own services. Manta.com, founded in 2005, is based in Columbus, Ohio.
Google searches for smart, green energy investments
Google searches for smart, green energy investments
LondonGoogle is looking to expand into the energy smart meters business and to invest in renewable generation projects in Europe, the head of green business operations at the internet giant.
Gulf Oil Spill
The aim of smart metering technology is to let customers view real-time electricity and gas consumption and allow them to optimize usage and therefore cut energy waste and save money by using energy during low demand periods.
Through Google.org, the philanthropic arm of the Internet firm, the company has developed a free web-based application called PowerMeter, which collects data from smart meters and displays the data on a customizable customer webpage.
"We're looking at getting more utility partners and more device partners. We're always looking for a broader reach and we're talking to utilities in all the major markets," Ben Kott told on the sidelines at a news briefing in London.
In partnership with British independent energy retailer, First Utility, Google is providing an opt-in service to the utility's 30,000 smart meter customers.
"I think in the UK, people are relatively open to this, not only focusing on cost but also efficiency. It is also a highly liberal energy market, so there are opportunities for companies like First Utility who wouldn't be able to operate in other markets," Kott said.
He said there were no plans to charge for the PowerMeter web application.
"There's no money going backwards and forwards," First Utility chief executive Mark Daeche said.
Google is also looking at investing in renewable power generation projects in Europe, following a $38.8 million U.S. wind farm investment in North Dakota in early May.
"We're newcomers in the field and we're quite aware of that. We're not yet ready for very risky investments, but it is something that could become very interesting in a few years. Now we're looking more at onshore wind and solar project," Kott said.
LondonGoogle is looking to expand into the energy smart meters business and to invest in renewable generation projects in Europe, the head of green business operations at the internet giant.
Gulf Oil Spill
The aim of smart metering technology is to let customers view real-time electricity and gas consumption and allow them to optimize usage and therefore cut energy waste and save money by using energy during low demand periods.
Through Google.org, the philanthropic arm of the Internet firm, the company has developed a free web-based application called PowerMeter, which collects data from smart meters and displays the data on a customizable customer webpage.
"We're looking at getting more utility partners and more device partners. We're always looking for a broader reach and we're talking to utilities in all the major markets," Ben Kott told on the sidelines at a news briefing in London.
In partnership with British independent energy retailer, First Utility, Google is providing an opt-in service to the utility's 30,000 smart meter customers.
"I think in the UK, people are relatively open to this, not only focusing on cost but also efficiency. It is also a highly liberal energy market, so there are opportunities for companies like First Utility who wouldn't be able to operate in other markets," Kott said.
He said there were no plans to charge for the PowerMeter web application.
"There's no money going backwards and forwards," First Utility chief executive Mark Daeche said.
Google is also looking at investing in renewable power generation projects in Europe, following a $38.8 million U.S. wind farm investment in North Dakota in early May.
"We're newcomers in the field and we're quite aware of that. We're not yet ready for very risky investments, but it is something that could become very interesting in a few years. Now we're looking more at onshore wind and solar project," Kott said.
Nokia unveils bicycle charger
Nokia unveils bicycle charger
New Delhi: Nokia unveiled its first bicycle charger targeting consumers with limited access to electricity.
The charger kit consists of a charger, dynamo and a holder to secure the phone to the bike. Priced at about 15 euros (Rs 860), the kit will be available later this year, said a company spokesman.
When the kit is installed, the dynamo - a small electrical generator - uses the movement of the wheels to charge the handset through the standard 2mm charging jack used in most Nokia mobile phones.
"Bicycles are the most widespread means of transport in many markets around the world, so this is just one more benefit to be gained from an activity people are already doing. This is a great solution to a real challenge, whether people will use it due to limited access to electricity, or to be more environmentally responsible," says Alex Lambeek, vice president at Nokia.
Designed for tropical climates the Nokia bicycle charger is humidity and dust resistant.
New Delhi: Nokia unveiled its first bicycle charger targeting consumers with limited access to electricity.
The charger kit consists of a charger, dynamo and a holder to secure the phone to the bike. Priced at about 15 euros (Rs 860), the kit will be available later this year, said a company spokesman.
When the kit is installed, the dynamo - a small electrical generator - uses the movement of the wheels to charge the handset through the standard 2mm charging jack used in most Nokia mobile phones.
"Bicycles are the most widespread means of transport in many markets around the world, so this is just one more benefit to be gained from an activity people are already doing. This is a great solution to a real challenge, whether people will use it due to limited access to electricity, or to be more environmentally responsible," says Alex Lambeek, vice president at Nokia.
Designed for tropical climates the Nokia bicycle charger is humidity and dust resistant.
Govt, UN initiative on encouraging 'green jobs'
Govt, UN initiative on encouraging 'green jobs'
New Delhi: Recognising the importance of jobs that contribute to environment protection, Government and the ILO have come together to organise the first national conference on 'green jobs' here next week to discuss emerging trends and policy options.
It will delve into issues relating to the creation of new green jobs, their adaptation in existing forms of employment and share inspiring cases from India and around the world, said an ILO official, adding the conference will be held on June 24 and 25.
According to the United Nations Environment Program, work in agricultural, manufacturing, research and development, administrative and service activities that contribute substantially to preserving or restoring environmental quality come under green jobs.
The conference will be organised by ILO in collaboration with the labour and employment ministry. ILO is already working with the government for supporting transition to a greener economy with decent jobs.
Other key elements of the conference's agenda, said the ILO official, include employment and labour market implications of environment-related measures and promotion of green jobs in the Indian policy framework.
Besides, the agenda would include promotion of jobs which help in transition to more sustainable economies and societies and sectoral discussions related to renewable energy, waste management and green buildings.
Participants from various government departments, employers' and workers' organisations, international agencies, private sector players, civil society organisations and research institutes are expected to attend the two-day conference, the official said.
New Delhi: Recognising the importance of jobs that contribute to environment protection, Government and the ILO have come together to organise the first national conference on 'green jobs' here next week to discuss emerging trends and policy options.
It will delve into issues relating to the creation of new green jobs, their adaptation in existing forms of employment and share inspiring cases from India and around the world, said an ILO official, adding the conference will be held on June 24 and 25.
According to the United Nations Environment Program, work in agricultural, manufacturing, research and development, administrative and service activities that contribute substantially to preserving or restoring environmental quality come under green jobs.
The conference will be organised by ILO in collaboration with the labour and employment ministry. ILO is already working with the government for supporting transition to a greener economy with decent jobs.
Other key elements of the conference's agenda, said the ILO official, include employment and labour market implications of environment-related measures and promotion of green jobs in the Indian policy framework.
Besides, the agenda would include promotion of jobs which help in transition to more sustainable economies and societies and sectoral discussions related to renewable energy, waste management and green buildings.
Participants from various government departments, employers' and workers' organisations, international agencies, private sector players, civil society organisations and research institutes are expected to attend the two-day conference, the official said.
Indian Hotels initiate green practices
Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces have launched EARTH (Environment Awareness and Renewal at Taj Hotels), a movement that works to minimise the impact of its businesses on the environment. The initiatives under this include environmental training for all employees, energy audits every three years, and a phased reduction of freshwater consumption.
Mentioned below are some measures that the group has taken for making their hotels and chains eco-friendly.
Waste management: In hotels where land is available, kitchen waste and dry leaves are converted into compost; waste paper from printing is reused as writing pads; pipe steel waste is used as safety railings or in barricades; and old bed sheets are used to make linen bags and cotton napkins.
Conserving energy: Taj hotels use CFL lights, which consume 78 per cent less energy; Taj Coromandel, Chennai, generates energy from windmills; solar water heating systems at the Taj West End, Bangalore, have saved over 51,000 litres of fuel over the last three years; a biogas plant at Rambagh Palace, Jaipur, helps in cutting energy cost.
Ecosensitivity: Located in a sensitive ecological zone, the Taj Exotica, Maldives, focuses on waste management. The use of plastic bags is restricted and hazardous substances such as lead acid batteries are sent to Thilafushi Island, a landfill area allocated for refuse. The Taj Coral Reef, located on a tropical atoll, takes great care to protect the delicate ecosystem of the coral reefs. Trees are planted near the beach and extraction of sand from the beach is not permitted. Organic wastes are processed and converted to fish food. Non bio-degradable waste products are either incinerated or routed to Thilafushi Island.
At Lake Palace, Udaipur, which stands in the middle of the famous Pichola Lake, the Taj takes care to avoid spoiling the lake water and harming its marine life. The hotel uses battery-operated boats instead of those powered by gasoline, and wastewater is recycled and used for irrigation.
The Taj Garden Retreat at Kumarakom, is located near the Vembanad Lake and the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary that is a favourite haunt of several species of migratory birds. The hotel uses special lighting to reduce the glare so as not to disturb animal life, and wastewater is treated before being discharged.
Mentioned below are some measures that the group has taken for making their hotels and chains eco-friendly.
Waste management: In hotels where land is available, kitchen waste and dry leaves are converted into compost; waste paper from printing is reused as writing pads; pipe steel waste is used as safety railings or in barricades; and old bed sheets are used to make linen bags and cotton napkins.
Conserving energy: Taj hotels use CFL lights, which consume 78 per cent less energy; Taj Coromandel, Chennai, generates energy from windmills; solar water heating systems at the Taj West End, Bangalore, have saved over 51,000 litres of fuel over the last three years; a biogas plant at Rambagh Palace, Jaipur, helps in cutting energy cost.
Ecosensitivity: Located in a sensitive ecological zone, the Taj Exotica, Maldives, focuses on waste management. The use of plastic bags is restricted and hazardous substances such as lead acid batteries are sent to Thilafushi Island, a landfill area allocated for refuse. The Taj Coral Reef, located on a tropical atoll, takes great care to protect the delicate ecosystem of the coral reefs. Trees are planted near the beach and extraction of sand from the beach is not permitted. Organic wastes are processed and converted to fish food. Non bio-degradable waste products are either incinerated or routed to Thilafushi Island.
At Lake Palace, Udaipur, which stands in the middle of the famous Pichola Lake, the Taj takes care to avoid spoiling the lake water and harming its marine life. The hotel uses battery-operated boats instead of those powered by gasoline, and wastewater is recycled and used for irrigation.
The Taj Garden Retreat at Kumarakom, is located near the Vembanad Lake and the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary that is a favourite haunt of several species of migratory birds. The hotel uses special lighting to reduce the glare so as not to disturb animal life, and wastewater is treated before being discharged.
Impact of climate change on India
Impact of climate change on India
Here are the main potential effects of climate change on a country, which is the world's seventh largest in area and is home to 1.1 billion people, a sixth of humanity.
Monsoon
Various studies show that surface air temperatures in India are going up at the rate of 0.4 degrees Celsius every 100 years, particularly during the post-monsoon and winter seasons. While mean winter temperatures could increase by as much as 3.2 degrees Celsius in the 2050s, summer temperatures could go up by 2.2 degrees Celsius in the 2050s, spurring climate variability.
Extreme temperatures and heat spells could alter patterns of monsoon rains, vital for India's agriculture and water needs. Scientists warn that India will experience a decline in summer rainfall by 2050. The monsoon accounts for almost 70 percent of the country's total annual rainfall. Winter rains are also predicted to fall by 10-20 percent. Higher temperatures also mean faster melting of Himalayan glaciers and as the melting season coincides with the monsoon season, any intensification of the monsoon is likely to contribute to flood disasters in the Himalayan catchment.
Agriculture
Agriculture will be adversely affected not only by an increase or decrease in the overall amounts of rainfall, but also by shifts in the timing of the rainfall. Higher temperatures reduce the total duration of a crop cycle, leading to a lower yield per unit area, especially for India's wheat and paddy crops.
Soil erosion, increased numbers of pests and weeds brought by climate change will also affect agriculture in India. For instance, the amount of moisture in the soil will be affected by changes in factors such as rainfall, runoff and evaporation.
Rising seas
A 10-year study in and around the Bay of Bengal points to the sea rising 3.14 mm a year in the mangrove swamps of the Sunderbans delta against a global average of 2 mm, threatening the low-lying area which is home to about 4 million people.
A trend of sea level rise of 1 cm per decade has been recorded along the Indian coast. The major delta area of the Ganga, Brahmaputra and Indus rivers, which have large populations reliant on riverine resources, will be affected by changes in water regimes, salt water intrusions and land loss.
Health
Rise in temperature and change in humidity will adversely affect human health in India. Heat stress could result in heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and weaken immune systems. Increased temperatures can increase the range of vector-borne diseases such as malaria, particularly in regions where minimum temperatures currently limited the spread of such diseases.
(Sources: Greenpeace, UNDP, Centre for Science and Environment)
Here are the main potential effects of climate change on a country, which is the world's seventh largest in area and is home to 1.1 billion people, a sixth of humanity.
Monsoon
Various studies show that surface air temperatures in India are going up at the rate of 0.4 degrees Celsius every 100 years, particularly during the post-monsoon and winter seasons. While mean winter temperatures could increase by as much as 3.2 degrees Celsius in the 2050s, summer temperatures could go up by 2.2 degrees Celsius in the 2050s, spurring climate variability.
Extreme temperatures and heat spells could alter patterns of monsoon rains, vital for India's agriculture and water needs. Scientists warn that India will experience a decline in summer rainfall by 2050. The monsoon accounts for almost 70 percent of the country's total annual rainfall. Winter rains are also predicted to fall by 10-20 percent. Higher temperatures also mean faster melting of Himalayan glaciers and as the melting season coincides with the monsoon season, any intensification of the monsoon is likely to contribute to flood disasters in the Himalayan catchment.
Agriculture
Agriculture will be adversely affected not only by an increase or decrease in the overall amounts of rainfall, but also by shifts in the timing of the rainfall. Higher temperatures reduce the total duration of a crop cycle, leading to a lower yield per unit area, especially for India's wheat and paddy crops.
Soil erosion, increased numbers of pests and weeds brought by climate change will also affect agriculture in India. For instance, the amount of moisture in the soil will be affected by changes in factors such as rainfall, runoff and evaporation.
Rising seas
A 10-year study in and around the Bay of Bengal points to the sea rising 3.14 mm a year in the mangrove swamps of the Sunderbans delta against a global average of 2 mm, threatening the low-lying area which is home to about 4 million people.
A trend of sea level rise of 1 cm per decade has been recorded along the Indian coast. The major delta area of the Ganga, Brahmaputra and Indus rivers, which have large populations reliant on riverine resources, will be affected by changes in water regimes, salt water intrusions and land loss.
Health
Rise in temperature and change in humidity will adversely affect human health in India. Heat stress could result in heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and weaken immune systems. Increased temperatures can increase the range of vector-borne diseases such as malaria, particularly in regions where minimum temperatures currently limited the spread of such diseases.
(Sources: Greenpeace, UNDP, Centre for Science and Environment)
Green Jobs
Top 10 green jobs
Here is a list of top 10 "green-collar" job.That combine technology with respect for our environment
1.) Eco-Tourism: Tourism is considered the largest employment sector in the world economy, so it’s no wonder that workers at all levels will become involved in greening the industry. Ecotourism is growing at three times the rate of the overall tourism sector itself. It purports to educate the traveller; provide funds for conservation; directly benefit the economic development and political empowerment of local communities; and foster respect for different cultures and for human rights.
2.)Organic Farming Specialist: With cutting-edge organic agriculture gaining popularity everywhere, a new type of farmer is emerging. Organic farming is the form of agriculture that relies on crop rotation, green manure, compost, biological pest control, organically approved pesticide application and mechanical cultivation to maintain soil productivity and control pests, excluding or strictly limiting the use of synthetic fertilizers and synthetic pesticides, plant growth regulators, livestock antibiotics, food additives, and genetically modified organisms.
3.)Environmental Engineers: Environmental engineering is the application of science and engineering principles to improve the environment (air, water, and/or land resources), to provide healthy water, air, and land for human habitation and for other organisms, and to remediate polluted sites.
4.) Sustainability Consultant:A sustainability consultant is someone who gives advice to businesses on how to make their products as sustainable (usually in an ecological sense) as is required or requested. In particular, they can give advice on the engineering challenges in meeting modern day building standards, such as the LEED Green Building Rating System. Sustainability consultants might also advise a business on how to achieve carbon neutrality.
5.)Urban Planning:Urban planning involves the construction, or sometimes reconstruction, of buildings, transportation systems and so forth. The environmental factor and you will find a number of jobs available.
6.)Solar Power Installer:New developments in solar technologies are now being fuelled by a number of factors such as the increased numbers of low voltage, energy efficient gadgets, mobile PCs and communicators as well as the rising demand for solar powered hot water heating. Installing solar-thermal water heaters and rooftop photovoltaic cells is a relatively high-paying job.
7.)Conservation Biologist: Conservation biology is the scientific study of the nature and status of Earth's biodiversity with the aim of protecting species, their habitats, and ecosystems from excessive rates of extinction. It is an interdisciplinary subject drawing on sciences, economics, and the practice of natural resource management
8.)Wildlife Management: Wildlife management is a general term for the process of keeping wild species at desirable levels which are determined by the wildlife managers. Wildlife management can include game keeping, wildlife conservation and pest control. Wildlife management has become an integrated science using disciplines such as mathematics, chemistry, biology, ecology, climatology and geography to gain the best results
9.) Emission Management: As companies shift to newer, greener ways of working, there will be a period of transition. The process includes an initial survey, analysis and presentation of recommendations, design and specification of reduction equipment, project financing support, installation, commissioning and ongoing energy monitoring.
10.)Recycling Specialists:As the public and private sectors of the recycling industry grow, it’s going to become more and more critical to be on the cutting edge of recycling techniques, That’s why it is essential that we recycle and reuse as much as possible, limiting waste and improving efficiency.
20 Simple Green Tips that "U" can follow in your day-to-day life
20 simple tips that you can follow in your day-to-day life. Every bit helps to save the earth.
1. Turn off computers at night - don't just put them to sleep.
2. Use Both Sides of Paper - You will save half of the amount of paper you would have normally used. Then when your done bring it to the recycle bin.
3. Don't get bottled water - Instead of bottled water get a reusable container to carry water. It is also very cost efficient.
4. Turn the water off when you brush - You will save almost 4 gallons of water doing this alone.
5. Shorten your shower - Every minute you cut from your shower is roughly 5 gallons of water.
6. Recycle Glass - If you do not recycle this, it will take a million years to decompose.
7. Don't Pre-Heat the Oven - unless needed, just turn the oven on after you put the dish in it.
8. Turn off your lights - Turn off your lights when you are not using them.
9. Get rid of junk mail - There are many services that can help you get rid of junk mail. That will lead to a lot less trees being cut down to take up room in your mailbox.
10. Use Matches instead of lighters - Lighters are usually considered disposable so they will most likely end up in landfills. You can use the cardboard matches, which are much more eco-friendly because they are made of recycled material.
11. Don't get a paper phone book – Instead use an online directory.
12. Go to a car wash - Going to a car wash is a lot more water efficient then washing your car at home.
13. Stop paper bank statements - Why waste paper getting your bank statement mailed to you when you can just check it out online.
14. Buy Rechargeable Batteries - Even though it will take a good investment to buy these you will find yourself gaining it back in no time.
15. Pay your Bills Online - This would save millions trees every year.
16. Use reusable bags - You can't recycle plastic bags, instead get yourself a reusable bag so that you won't have to worry about carrying your necessities.
17. Do Errands in Bulk - Make a list of the things you have to do, and see if you can fit a couple of those things together in one ride.
18. Turn down your Thermostat - Every degree lower in the winter or higher in the summer you put it is a 10% decrease on your energy bill
19. Plant a Tree - It's good for the air, can keep you cool, and can increase your property value.
20. Walk or Ride Your Bike When you can - If you have to go somewhere close consider riding your bike or walking there instead of your car. It's better on the environment and healthier.
1. Turn off computers at night - don't just put them to sleep.
2. Use Both Sides of Paper - You will save half of the amount of paper you would have normally used. Then when your done bring it to the recycle bin.
3. Don't get bottled water - Instead of bottled water get a reusable container to carry water. It is also very cost efficient.
4. Turn the water off when you brush - You will save almost 4 gallons of water doing this alone.
5. Shorten your shower - Every minute you cut from your shower is roughly 5 gallons of water.
6. Recycle Glass - If you do not recycle this, it will take a million years to decompose.
7. Don't Pre-Heat the Oven - unless needed, just turn the oven on after you put the dish in it.
8. Turn off your lights - Turn off your lights when you are not using them.
9. Get rid of junk mail - There are many services that can help you get rid of junk mail. That will lead to a lot less trees being cut down to take up room in your mailbox.
10. Use Matches instead of lighters - Lighters are usually considered disposable so they will most likely end up in landfills. You can use the cardboard matches, which are much more eco-friendly because they are made of recycled material.
11. Don't get a paper phone book – Instead use an online directory.
12. Go to a car wash - Going to a car wash is a lot more water efficient then washing your car at home.
13. Stop paper bank statements - Why waste paper getting your bank statement mailed to you when you can just check it out online.
14. Buy Rechargeable Batteries - Even though it will take a good investment to buy these you will find yourself gaining it back in no time.
15. Pay your Bills Online - This would save millions trees every year.
16. Use reusable bags - You can't recycle plastic bags, instead get yourself a reusable bag so that you won't have to worry about carrying your necessities.
17. Do Errands in Bulk - Make a list of the things you have to do, and see if you can fit a couple of those things together in one ride.
18. Turn down your Thermostat - Every degree lower in the winter or higher in the summer you put it is a 10% decrease on your energy bill
19. Plant a Tree - It's good for the air, can keep you cool, and can increase your property value.
20. Walk or Ride Your Bike When you can - If you have to go somewhere close consider riding your bike or walking there instead of your car. It's better on the environment and healthier.
Environmental Calendar 2010
January
February
February 2-World Wetlands Day
March
March 21-World Forestry Day
March 22nd-World Water Day
March 23-World Meteorological Day
March 27-Earth Hour
April
April 2-April World Health Day
May
May 8 – International Migratory Bird Day
May 18 – Plant Conservation Day
May 21 – Endangered Species Day
May 22 – International Biodiversity Day
May 31 – No Tobacco Day
June
June 5 – World Environment Day
June 8 – World Ocean Day
June 15 – Global Wind Day
June 17 – World Day to Combat Desertification
July
August
August 9 – International Day of the World’s Indigenous People
September
September 4 – National Wildlife Day
September 16 – International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer
September 25 – International Coastal Cleanup Day
September 28 – Green Consumer Day
October
October 1 – World Vegetarian Day
October 1 to 7 – World Wildlife Week
October 4 – World Animal Welfare Day
November
November 6 – International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict
February
February 2-World Wetlands Day
March
March 21-World Forestry Day
March 22nd-World Water Day
March 23-World Meteorological Day
March 27-Earth Hour
April
April 2-April World Health Day
May
May 8 – International Migratory Bird Day
May 18 – Plant Conservation Day
May 21 – Endangered Species Day
May 22 – International Biodiversity Day
May 31 – No Tobacco Day
June
June 5 – World Environment Day
June 8 – World Ocean Day
June 15 – Global Wind Day
June 17 – World Day to Combat Desertification
July
August
August 9 – International Day of the World’s Indigenous People
September
September 4 – National Wildlife Day
September 16 – International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer
September 25 – International Coastal Cleanup Day
September 28 – Green Consumer Day
October
October 1 – World Vegetarian Day
October 1 to 7 – World Wildlife Week
October 4 – World Animal Welfare Day
November
November 6 – International Day for Preventing the Exploitation of the Environment in War and Armed Conflict
Silicon Valley all aglow on green lighting
Silicon Valley all aglow on green lighting
San Francisco: Silicon Valley has seen the light, and it's LED.
The incandescent light bulb has had the global lighting market in its grip for more than 130 years, building into a more than $100 billion industry.
But green concerns about efficiency spell an end to the era, and the U.S. technology capital sees light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, as the new king.
"Lighting is going to completely change over the course of this decade," said Alan Salzman, chief executive of Silicon Valley-based venture fund VantagePoint Venture Partners.
His firm has $4.5 billion in committed capital in startups across different sectors, but lighting is an area he is very bullish on.
"The largest sector in terms of companies in our portfolio is lighting," Salzman said.
While many love the look of the light cast by incandescent bulbs, none like the high-energy bills. Nations around the world, including the United States, are phasing in efficiency standards that will eliminate the incandescents if no major energy improvements happen.
Investors are betting on other technologies taking hold.
Compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs so far have been the only real alternative to conventional bulbs but they contain mercury and many don't like the quality of the light.
LED lights, on the other hand, contain no mercury, have a long life and are very energy efficient.
LEDs, made of diodes or chips, have come a long way since the first practical LED was a developed in 1962. Its sole color was red. Now developers produce light colors across the spectrum.
They consume only about 20 percent of the energy used by incandescent bulbs. With about 20 percent of the world's electricity used for lighting, switching to LEDs would generate significant energy savings and cut greenhouse gas emissions while nations debate how to price carbon dioxide pollution.
Cost challenge
There is one major hurdle for mass adoption of LEDs -- they cost too much. Experts say that for the market to take off, good quality LED lights need to available under $10. Current bulbs cost many times that.
Investors are betting heavily the cost will fall quickly as LED start-ups achieve scale and the technology advances.
"The market really started shifting in the last 12 months," said Warner Philips, co-founder of LED start-up Lemnis Lighting and great grandson of the founder of Dutch electronics giant Philips Electronics.
Lemnis introduced its first LED bulb, called Pharox that can go into a standard light socket about four years ago. The latest version can last around 25 years, based on four hours of daily operation, but it costs $25.
The price has halved in a short time. Lemnis had been selling LED bulbs around $50 only about six months ago and Philips expects the price to fall below the crucial $10 level soon.
"That will be probably be in the first half of next year," he said.
Bullish growth projections
LEDs by 2020 will account for nearly half of the $4.4 billion U.S. market for lamps in the commercial, industrial and outdoor stationary sectors, predicted Pike Research, which tracks the market.
Even at the current high price, some commercial establishments and retailers are switching.
Late last year, retail giant Wal-Mart said it would install LEDs in 650 of its stores and picked Cree Inc, one of the few public companies in this space, to supply the lights.
Other companies switching to LEDs include coffee retailer Starbucks Corp, Red Robin restaurants and Yum! Brands Inc.
Cree's shares hit an all-time high of $83.38 this April, rising almost 49 percent from the start of the year, partly due to bullish expectations on the LED market. The global economic slowdown has ratcheted back expectations, though, and sent shares down toward $65.
In the first quarter of 2010, venture capitalists invested $100 million in 14 LED lighting companies, up from $14 million in the same quarter a year ago, according to Cleantech Group.
California's Bridgelux, which makes high-power LED chips specifically for the lighting industry, is in the process of opening a Silicon Valley plant and investors are eager to join in.
Bridgelux raised $80 million earlier this year and turned away some would-be investors.
"We had a lot of people pounding on our doors," said Chief Executive Bill Watkins.
San Francisco: Silicon Valley has seen the light, and it's LED.
The incandescent light bulb has had the global lighting market in its grip for more than 130 years, building into a more than $100 billion industry.
But green concerns about efficiency spell an end to the era, and the U.S. technology capital sees light-emitting diodes, or LEDs, as the new king.
"Lighting is going to completely change over the course of this decade," said Alan Salzman, chief executive of Silicon Valley-based venture fund VantagePoint Venture Partners.
His firm has $4.5 billion in committed capital in startups across different sectors, but lighting is an area he is very bullish on.
"The largest sector in terms of companies in our portfolio is lighting," Salzman said.
While many love the look of the light cast by incandescent bulbs, none like the high-energy bills. Nations around the world, including the United States, are phasing in efficiency standards that will eliminate the incandescents if no major energy improvements happen.
Investors are betting on other technologies taking hold.
Compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs so far have been the only real alternative to conventional bulbs but they contain mercury and many don't like the quality of the light.
LED lights, on the other hand, contain no mercury, have a long life and are very energy efficient.
LEDs, made of diodes or chips, have come a long way since the first practical LED was a developed in 1962. Its sole color was red. Now developers produce light colors across the spectrum.
They consume only about 20 percent of the energy used by incandescent bulbs. With about 20 percent of the world's electricity used for lighting, switching to LEDs would generate significant energy savings and cut greenhouse gas emissions while nations debate how to price carbon dioxide pollution.
Cost challenge
There is one major hurdle for mass adoption of LEDs -- they cost too much. Experts say that for the market to take off, good quality LED lights need to available under $10. Current bulbs cost many times that.
Investors are betting heavily the cost will fall quickly as LED start-ups achieve scale and the technology advances.
"The market really started shifting in the last 12 months," said Warner Philips, co-founder of LED start-up Lemnis Lighting and great grandson of the founder of Dutch electronics giant Philips Electronics.
Lemnis introduced its first LED bulb, called Pharox that can go into a standard light socket about four years ago. The latest version can last around 25 years, based on four hours of daily operation, but it costs $25.
The price has halved in a short time. Lemnis had been selling LED bulbs around $50 only about six months ago and Philips expects the price to fall below the crucial $10 level soon.
"That will be probably be in the first half of next year," he said.
Bullish growth projections
LEDs by 2020 will account for nearly half of the $4.4 billion U.S. market for lamps in the commercial, industrial and outdoor stationary sectors, predicted Pike Research, which tracks the market.
Even at the current high price, some commercial establishments and retailers are switching.
Late last year, retail giant Wal-Mart said it would install LEDs in 650 of its stores and picked Cree Inc, one of the few public companies in this space, to supply the lights.
Other companies switching to LEDs include coffee retailer Starbucks Corp, Red Robin restaurants and Yum! Brands Inc.
Cree's shares hit an all-time high of $83.38 this April, rising almost 49 percent from the start of the year, partly due to bullish expectations on the LED market. The global economic slowdown has ratcheted back expectations, though, and sent shares down toward $65.
In the first quarter of 2010, venture capitalists invested $100 million in 14 LED lighting companies, up from $14 million in the same quarter a year ago, according to Cleantech Group.
California's Bridgelux, which makes high-power LED chips specifically for the lighting industry, is in the process of opening a Silicon Valley plant and investors are eager to join in.
Bridgelux raised $80 million earlier this year and turned away some would-be investors.
"We had a lot of people pounding on our doors," said Chief Executive Bill Watkins.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
