Debunking 4 Most Common Solar Panel System Myths

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Solar panel systems’ sales have increased over the last few years. But there are still many who are yet to make the transition. One of the reasons for people resisting the change is the myths surrounding solar panel systems. And the sad part is that people believe these myths without even checking with a solar expert or reading about solar panel systems from a relevant source. So to clear the air, in this post, we talk about some of the most common solar panel myths and the facts behind them. Come let’s find out.

clean energy investment

Myth 1 – They are way too expensive

Unfortunately, it is because of this myth that many people do not consider installing a solar panel system. Most of them have this preconceived notion and they don’t even read up or talk to a solar expert to find out how much solar panel systems actually cost.

Fact – One of the reasons people fall for this myth is that they only consider the initial investment cost and do not take into account the savings that one makes after installing a solar panel system. The fact is that on average people are able to recover their investment cost within the first 4 to 5 years itself. And whatever savings that one makes after having recovered the investment cost is the returns that one makes on their investment. Also, many people are unaware of the huge subsidies that the Government of India offers on the purchase of a solar panel system.

Myth 2 – They don’t generate power during rainy and winter season

Another most common myth about solar power systems is that solar panel systems do not generate any power during the colder months. People think that solar panels work only on a warm sunny day.

Fact – The output of solar panels does get impacted during a cloudy day or during the winter season (as winter days are shorter as compared to summer days), but the fact is that solar panel systems still generate a significant amount of energy during these days too. On the other hand, the efficiency of a solar panel decreases when the temperature is very high. Also, there are highly efficient solar panels available in the market that ensure there’s minimal effect of seasonality on a solar panel’s efficiency.

Myth 3 – They are high maintenance

One of the reasons people believe that solar panels require high maintenance is because they are installed in the open. People are also skeptical about solar panels being damaged by external environmental factors such as strong winds, heavy rains, hailstorms. But this is a myth and now let us find out what the reality is.

solar-panels-maintenance

Fact – Solar panels are highly durable and are designed keeping all the external environmental factors in mind. Also, since they do not have any moving parts they hardly require any repair or replacement. As far as cleaning of solar panels is concerned, during the rainy season the dirt, dust and debris gets washed away with the rain. Besides that you only need to clean them around 1 to 2 times annually.

Myth 4 – They do not power your home during a power outage

You must have heard the age old saying “Half knowledge is a dangerous thing.” Well, the saying holds true about the myth around solar panel systems according to which solar panels stop functioning during a power outage or a power failure from the local grid’s end.

Fact – As you would be aware that on-grid (or grid tied) solar panel systems draw power from the local grid whenever there’s deficiency of power and similarly they supply surplus power to the local grid whenever there’s excess energy produced. And therefore, whenever there’s a power outage the solar panel systems do shut down to prevent any flow of surplus power from the solar panel systems to the local grid. It does so to protect the utility company workers fixing the lines during the power outage. But that doesn’t mean there would be no power available to run the home appliances during the power outage. Solar panel systems with batteries have enough power stored in the battery to provide the required backup during a power outage.

Yet to take the plunge?

If you weren’t sure of going solar just because you believed in one or more of the above listed myths, we hope we have been able to clear them and you would now consider switching to a solar panel system.

إستراتيجيات الحفاظ على المياه في الشرق الأوسط

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للتعامل مع تحديات إدارة المياه العذبة في الشرق الأوسط , لابد من إحداث توازن بين مخزون المياه الموجود و حجم الطلب . وهذا التوازن ممكن أن يحقق من خلال توظيف إستراتيجيات تزيد من كفاءة المياه و الحفاظ عليها . استراتيجيات حفظ المياه في الشرق الأوسط تتضمن التقليل قدر الإمكان من إستخدام المخزون المائي القابل للنقل , إيجاد مصادر مياه بديلة للإستعمالات المتعددة و زيادة كفاءة استخدام المياه من معدات و تجهيزات مناسبة .

home water filtration system

الإستراتيجيات الفعالة بالإضافة إلى مراقبة المياه التي تتعقب عملية استخدامها  و تحديد المشاكل , ممكن أن تخفض الإستهلاك الداخلي و الخارجي للمياه بشكل ملحوظ في الدول التي تعاني من شح شديد للمياه كدول مجلس التعاون الخليجي مثل الإمارات , قطر , الكويت و السعودية . معظم إستراتيجيات حفظ المياه لا تحتوي على تكلفة ضمنية إضافية و/أو مزودة بوارد فوري مع أن هناك بعض الإستراتيجيات مثل نظم معالجة مياه الصرف الصحي و و أنظمة سباكة المياه الرمادية التي غالبا  تتضمن استثمارات كبيرة .

تخفيض الإستهلاك الداخلي للمياه الصالحة الشرب

تخفيض استهلاك المياه الصالحة للشرب في الإستخدامات الداخلية ممكن أن يتم من خلال تركيب أجهزة تدفق منخفضة الكفاءة في دورات المياه  , المباول , المراحيض , الحمامات , مصارف المطابخ و استعمال مياه غير صالحة للشرب في النوافير ” الflush ” . مصادر المياه غير صالحة للشرب تؤخذ غالبا من مياه الأمطار , المياه الرمادية , المياه المستصلحة  أو مياه البلدية المعالجة من مخلفات الصرف الصحي . المباول التي تحتاج كمية منخفضة من المياه متوفرة في المتاجر ومن الممكن أن تستخدم في المباني التجارية . محددات التدفق و الضوابط الإلكترونية و المراحيض المختلطة من الممكن أيضا أن تساهم في تخفيض الإستهلاك الداخلي للمياه .

تخفيض الإستهلاك الخارجي للمياه الصالحة للشرب

ري المساحات الزراعية يستهلك كمية كبيرة من المياه الصالحة للشرب . إستعمال المياه في المساحات الخارجية ممكن أن يخفض بشكل ملحوظ من خلال  نهج متكامل . ذلك يتضمن توظيف تكنولوجيا ري موفرة للمياه , فرش التربة ” بأوراق شجر متحللة أو سماد ” , التقليل من فرش الأرض بالأعشاب أو إلغائه أصلا , إستعمال مياه غير صالحة للشرب أو معاد تكريرها , تركيب عدادات فرعية للتعقب و تسجيل إتجاه دخول مياه الري و أخيرا أختيار أنواع نباتات محلية أو متكيفة في تصميم المساحات الكبيرة و استخدام طريقة الحدائق الجافة . أنظمة الري عالية الكفاءة مثل الري بالتنقيط , نظام توزيع المياه الفوار ” النافورة ” , الري المنظم بجداول و الري المرتكز على الوضع الجوي جميعها تساعد في زيادة كفاءة المياه .

water scarcity in jordan

تخفيض إستخدام المياه العملية

استخدامات الأنظمة التقليدية للمباني للمياه العملية تتضمن أبراج التبريد , المراجل , المبردات , غسالات الصحون و الغسالات .إن كمية المياه المستهلكة في هذه الإستخدامات ملحوظة إلى حد كبير .  إستراتيجيات تخفيض إستهلاك المياه العملية تتضمن : إستخدام المياه غير صالحة للشرب مثل مياه المطر , المياه الرمادية أو مياه المخلفات المجاري المعالجة TSA  في عمليات البناء و أخيرا  أنظمة مثل أبراج التبريد . قياس أنظمة المياه العملية ممكن أن يساعد في جمع معلومات عن كمية إستهلاك المياه و معرفة مناطق التسريبات .

إستصلاح و إعاداة إستخدام المياه المتكاثفة

المكثفات المنتجة من معدات تكييف الهواء يمكن استصلاحها وإعادة استخدامها داخل المبنى. التكاثف يمكن جمعه عن طريق تركيب وعاء جامع للتكاثف ثم نقلها عبر انظمة مختلفة إلى أنابيب الصرف لأغراض إاعادة الإستخدام المختلفة مثل الري , نوافير تنظيف دورة المياه Flush  أو أي إستعمالات أخرى ليس لها إتصال بجسم الإنسان . و للأبنية التي يكون فيها حمل التبريد مساو أو أعلى من 350 كيلوواط كمية كبيرة من المياه المكثفة ممكن أن تستصلح و يعاد إستخدامها .

ترجمه

علا محمود المشاقبة , حاصلة على درجة البكالوريوس تخصص ” إدارة الأراضي و المياه ” من الجامعة الهاشمية – الأردن بتقدير جيد جدا , أعمل تطوعيا كعضو إداري مع مجموعة ” مخضّرو الأردن JO Greeners”  منذ ثلاثة سنوات و حتى الأن  , و متطوعة أيضا مع منظمة  EcoMENA  . موهبة الكتابة شيء أساسي في حياتي و قمت بتوظيفها في كتابة و خدمة القضايا البيئية .

How To Make Your Home More Eco-Friendly For The Winter

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It is very important to remember that the planet needs to be saved and it is the responsibly of the people that live on it to do so. Everyone plays a part in global warming and if you make a few changes in your home then you’ll find that you’ll be able to reduce your overall carbon footprint. As the winter approaches, you should make sure that your home is ready but that it is also eco-friendly. In this article, we are going to discuss how you can do this. Make sure to keep reading if you’d like to find out more.

warm home in winter

1. Insulate Everywhere

As it gets colder, more people are more likely to start turning their heating on to escape the cold. This is something which you should try to keep to a minimum if you want to improve your carbon footprint. A good way of getting around this is to make sure that all of your home is insulated carefully.

This includes things like your attic, your main house and even your shed or steel building like those from Armstrong Steel. When you make sure that everything is insulated, you can be sure that you are using less energy and staying warm at the same time.

2. Replace Your Boiler

You might find that you could actually be using a lot more energy than you need to be with your current boiler. As the winter approaches, it is important that you get your boiler serviced and that you replace it if you think that it needs to be replaced.

hot-water

 

Replacing your boiler will be quite expensive but it can actually make a huge difference to the carbon footprint that your family is putting out there. It is also advisable to get boiler cover insurance that takes care of repairs, and in some cases, the replacement of home boilers.

If you can’t finance or pay for your boiler upfront, you may be able to get support from certain schemes, if you meet eligibility criteria. You can find out more about this, along with how to apply for them, refer to BoilerGrants.org.uk for more information.

3. Change Your Light Bulbs

You might not have had to use your light bulbs as much over the summer, but you will find that replacing them is still important. You should think about installing some energy efficient lightbulbs which will help your home to be more eco-friendly.

LED-bulbs

These types of light bulbs are becoming more standard, so you should be able to find them in many different stores. If you do this then you should be able to see your carbon footprint reduced.

4. Take Shorter Showers

Our final tip for those who want to make their home more eco-friendly for the winter is regarding the amount of water that is used in your household. Think carefully about how much water you are using when you take a shower or how often you actually fill up the washing machine when doing a load. It is important to be making the most of the water that you have so don’t start wasting it.

Final Thoughts

If you can follow our tips in this article, then you will find that your home is a lot more energy efficient this winter. Your family’s carbon footprint will be reduced, and you will feel a lot better about your impact on the environment.

خمس عادات مستدامة وصديقة للبيئة لشرب القهوة

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تُعد القهوة من ضمن أكثر المشروبات إستهلاكا في العالم مع الماء والشاي، حيث يتمتع هذا المشروب بشعبية كبيرة حتى أن بعض الاشخاص ليس لديهم القدرة على بدء نهارهم وأداء وظائفهم اليومية دون تناول كوب قوي من القهوة. إن كنت من محبي القهوة، فهنالك أمور عديدة يمكنك ان تقوم بها لتجعل تجربتك مُرضية أكثر، حيث لا يوجد شيء يضاهي الاستمتاع بمشروبك الصباحي المفضل وبدون أي ضرر للبيئة. يمكنك المساهمة في إنقاذ العالم من خلال تبني عادات مستدامة وصديقة للبيئة بشُربك للقهوة.

coffee waste recycling

حضّر قهوتك الخاصة بك

أهم ما يعتبر لعبة بيد الرأسماليين في الوقت الراهن هو الراحة، حيث ان زخم الحياة الحالية قد وضع الناس في مكان لإعطاء راحتهم المقام الاول بغض النظرعن الاثارالبيئية المترتبة على أفعالهم.

إن سلاسل شركات القهوة أصبحت مشهورة جداً لأنها تحضر قهوتك في دقائق معدودة، لكن الانبعاثات الكربونية التي تنتج من هذه الشركات يؤثر سلباً على الطبيعة، لحسن الحظ، إن الاوان لم يفت بعد حتى نكون ذو وعي أكبر بالبيئة. قم بتحضير قهوتك بالمنزل، مع أن الامر يبدو صعباً إلا أنه يوفر لك صنع منتج يناسبك تماماً. وستكون مسيطراً بالكامل على حدّة وخفة المشروب، بالاضافة إلى توفير المال والمحافظة على البيئة بنفس الوقت.

إن كنت من مُحبي القهوة، فإنه يتحتم عليك أن تكون خبيراً بأفضل طرق لتخمير القهوة.

لقد أصبحت طريقة الصب ذات شهرة واسعة في الاونة الاخيرة، وهذه العملية المباشرة لتخمير القهوة تتضمن غمر حبوب البُن الطازجة بالماء الساخن، ليقوم بإذابة العناصر أو المواد القابلة للذوبان في هذه الحبوب.

ولتحضير طريقة الصب في المنزل فإنك تحتاج ثلاثة أشياء بسيطة:

  1. المطحنة اليدوية: قم باستخدام المطحنة اليدوية لا الكهربائية، لتوفير الطاقة وأيضاُ قم بشراء المنتجات عالية الجودة حتى تدوم لفترة أطول لتقليل النفايات، نوعية المطحنة ضرورية لتصل للطحن المناسب والصحيح لحبوب البُن.
  2. ماكينة الصب: ويكون معها كوباً خاصاً يعمل كحاوية لحبوب القهوة أثناء صب الماء الساخن فوقها، حيث تحتوي هذه الماكينة على ثقوب في اسفلها لتسمح بتنقيط الجرعة السحرية في كأسك.
  3. مرشح قابل لإعادة الاستخدام: تعتبر المرشحات من أهم المواد التي تساهم في زيادة نفايات صنع القهوة، بالإضافة إلى أنه يتم تبييضها بالكلور أو الاكسجين مما يساهم في زيادة النفايات الكيميائية، لتجنب هذه المشاكل فالافضل أن تستخدم المرشحات القابلة لاعادة الاستخدام حتى تتمكن من تعبئتها بكمية القهوة الخاصة بك، أما الذين لا يزالوا يتسخدمون الات الاسبرسو الاوتوماتيكية، فالافضل أن تبحث أن خيارات صديقة للبيئة ويوفر الماء والكهرباء.

إذا فكرت أن طريقة الصب طريقة معقدة وتأخذ وقتاً طويلاً، فأفضل شيء تقوم به أن تحضر قهوتك بكمية أكبر تكون صالحة للشرب لعدة أيام وتخزنها بالثلاجة، الموضوع يتعلق بتخطيطك لأسبوعك وتخليصك من الضغط والتوتر الصباحي لاسبوعك المزدحم.

إستخدام أكواب قابلة لإعادة الاستخدام

إن الفناجين او الاكواب ذات الاستخدام الواحد – على الرغم من الراحة التي تقدمها – إلا أنها ضارة جداً بالبيئة، وخاصة البلاستيكية منها. اذا كنت تفضل الذهاب للمقهى المفضل لديك، فعلى الاقل يجب أن تحضر معك كوباً متعدد الاستخدام لتجنب استخدام الاكواب المستخدمة لمرة واحدة. حيث أن الاكواب ذات الاستخدام الواحد مُضرّة بالوضع البيئي بالعالم. هل تعلم بأن أبناء هذه الايام ينتجون 300 مليون طن من النفايات البلاستيكية سنوياً؟ لذا كن انت مستهلكا صديقا للبيئة، واحمل معك كوبك القابل لاعادة الاستخدام اينما ذهبت لتستمتع بكوب قهوتك دون أن تشعر بالذنب.

شراء منتجات “التجارة العادلة”

قم بدعم الشركات المحلية التي تهتم بالبيئة، وادعم المنظمات المنتمية لحركة التجارة العادلة وهذه المنظمات يهمها الكوكب وزبائنها اكثر من الارباح.

أبحث جيدا عن موردي القهوة في منطقتك، بغض النظر إن كانوا هم المصدر الصحيح للقهوة أم لا، المهم أن يتعاملوا ويتاجروا بأخلاق. ومن ناحية بيئية ستتعرف على منتجاتهم وتتأكد إن كانت مثلك من عبواتهم وطريقة تغليفهم واستخدامهم للمواد الورقية أو البلاستيكية القابلة للتحلل.

recycling of used coffee grounds

إستخدام السماد الطبيعي

إن استخدام التسميد هو طريقة طبيعية لاعادة تدوير النفايات العضوية مثل حبوب القهوة المطحونة، حيث أنه بالامكان تحويل النفايات الناتجة عن تحضير القهوة إلى بودرة واستعمالها بتخصيب او تسميد حديقتك.

بخطوات بسيطة  كما يلي:

  • البحث عن مكان لعمل حفرة لوضع السماد: هذه الخطوة تعد سهلة جداً للذين يمتلكون حديقة أرضية، مع ذلك، فإن الذين يسكنون بالشقق بامكانهم التخلص من نفايات القهوة من خلال شراء وعاء/حاوية كبيرة وعمل ثقوب في القاعدة للتهوية ثم وضعها على صينية لتجميع الصرف، عليهم فقط بوضع التربة بالحاوية وستتولى الديدان عملية التحلل.
  • إضافة المواد طبقة تلو الأخرى: ضع الاغصان الجافة والقش في الجزء السفلي لانشاء مساحات في حفرة السماد لتدوير الهواء بالداخل، تأكد من تبديل المواد الرطبة والجافة لتسريع عملية التحلل.
  • ترطيب السماد باستمرار: قم بسقاية السماد بانتظام بالصيف لقلة المطر، فإن الرطوبة تعتبر عامل مهم في التحلل.
  • غطاء لحفظ الحرارة: بغض النظر عن رطوبة السماد، فإن الحرارة ايضاَ تسهل عملية التحلل، قم بتغطية الحفرة بالخشب أو بقايا سجاد قديم أو حتى غطاء بلاستيكي لتحافظ على الحرارة بالداخل.
  • تهوية السماد كل بضعة أسابيع: من أهم عوامل التحلل هو الاكسجين، لذلك يتوجب عليك أن تحدد وقتا كل عدة أسابيع لتهوية الحفرة وإدخال الاكسجين لها.

تجنب شراء كميات كبيرة من القهوة

مع ان شراء القهوة بكميات كبيرة يساعدك على تقليل التغليف، لكن توفر القهوة عندك دائماً سيدفعك لتحضير كميات أكثر من حاجتك اليومية او الاسبوعية. إحسب الكمية التي تحتاجها لمدة شهر وتجنب طحن أكثر من الكمية المحتاجة في نفس جلسة التخمير الواحدة.

لجعل قهوتك أكثر صداقة للبيئة، فإنه بالامكان “تحضير رغوة” بحليب نباتي عن طؤيق سحب الحليب وهذه الخطوة لا تتطلب أي طاقة أو كهرباء.

خاتمة

ليس عليك الاختيار بين إعداد قهوتك والحفاظ على البيئة. لإنك قادر على القيام بالأمرين معًا عن طريق تحضير القهوة الخاصة بك في المنزل باستخدام المطاحن اليدوية وماكينة التخمير والمرشحات القابلة لإعادة الاستخدام.

وبالطبع، تذكر أن تدعم الشركات التي تهدف إلى المنتجات المستدامة أيضًا حيث أنه من المفترض أنك إعتدت على استبدال الأكواب ذات الاستخدام الواحد بالأكواب القابلة لإعادة الاستخدام.

أخيراً، قم بتجربة السماد للتخلص من نفاياتك العضوية بشكل طبيعي وتجنب شراء كميات كبيرة من القهوة.

ترجمة: ماجدة هلسه

أردنية متعددة الإهتمامات، لديها من الخبرة ما يقارب السبعة وعشرون عاماً في مجال المالية والإدارة في المؤسسات المحلية والدولية، وتعمل ماجدة حالياً مع التعاون الدولي الالماني كموظفة مالية. ومع ذلك كله وعلى الصعيد التطوعي، فإن لديها شغفاً كبيراً بالترجمة في كافة المواضيع والمجالات، وقد بُني هذا الشغف بالخبرة الشخصية والعملية على مدى هذه السنين.

Note: The original English version of the article is available at this link.

The Paper Bag Boy of Abu Dhabi

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Paper_Bag_BoyAbdul Muqeet, also known as the Paper Bag Boy, has risen from being just another ordinary student to an extra-ordinary environmentalist, eco-hero and eco-warrior. At just ten years old, Abdul Muqeet has demonstrated his commitment to saving the environment in United Arab Emirates and elsewhere.

Inspired by the 2010 campaign “UAE Free of Plastic Bags”, Abdul Muqeet, a student of Standard V at Abu Dhabi Indian School, applied his own initiative and imagination to create 100% recycled carry bags using paper waste. He then set out to distribute these bags in Abu Dhabi, replacing single-use plastic bags that take hundreds of years to degrade biologically. The bags were lovingly named ‘Mukku bags’ and Abdul Muqeet became famous as the Paper Bag Boy.

Abdul Muqeet’s environmental initiative has catalyzed a much larger community campaign. During the first year, Abdul Muqeet created and donated more than 4,000 paper bags in Abu Dhabi. In addition, he has led workshops at schools, private companies and government entities, demonstrating how to create paper bags using old newspapers. His school along with a number of companies in Abu Dhabi adopted his idea by exchanging their plastic bags for paper bags.

Abdul Muqeet was one of the youngest recipients of Abu Dhabi Awards 2011, for his remarkable contribution to conserve environment. The awards were presented by General Sheikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Commander of the UAE Armed Forces. In 2011, Abdul Muqeet was selected to attend the United Nation’s Tunza conference in Indonesia where he demonstrated his commitment for a cleaner environment through his paper bag initiative. He is actively involved in spreading environmental awareness worldwide, especially UAE, India, USA and Indonesia.

Abdul Muqeet continues to make headlines for his concerted efforts towards a plastic-free environment, and has been widely covered by leading newspapers in UAE and other countries. He tirelessly campaigned for the Rio+20 summit, urging world leaders to commit to the Green Economy. “Plant more trees; use less water; reuse and recycle; always remember that everything in this world can be recycled but not time,” says Abdul.

He has been remarkably supported by his parents and siblings throughout his truly inspiring environmental sojourn. Abdul Muqeet’s monumental achievements at such a tender age make him a torch-bearer of the global environmental movement, and should also inspire the young generation to protect the environment by implementing the concept of ‘Zero Waste’.

Construction Wastes Management in the UAE

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Out of total solid wastes generated in the UAE, the construction and demolition wastes or (C&D wastes) account for 70% of the total weight of solid wastes. Dubai alone produces nearly 5,000 tonnes of construction and demolition waste every day, which is about 70% of the total solid waste generated every day. In Abu Dhabi, C&D wastes account for 71% of total wastes generated. It is expected that construction and development activities and associated C&D waste production will continue to rise in this region.

construction waste management

Hence, if not managed appropriately, it is expected that dumping of C&D waste will become uncontrolled. This will not only cause negative environmental impact on soil, water and air and the surrounding ecosystem but also result in depletion of finite resources. This also creates social and financial burden to the society and to the country.  Hence, the management of construction waste is an essential aspect of sustainable building development.

To reduce the environmental impacts and improve the socio cultural, economic performance of buildings, various sustainability rating systems and green building regulations are created in the UAE apart from the sustainability rating systems available globally.

These rating systems and regulation have a credit category generally called “materials and resources” credit category, which includes the requirements for construction and demolition waste management. The main intent of having these requirements is to facilitate the waste reduction during construction and to prevent the depletion of material resources and associated environmental impacts.

The common sustainability rating systems used in the UAE are LEED, Pearl Rating System for Estidama and EHS Trakhees in-house certification. Various local Green Building regulations are made to regulate the building design and construction activities in each administrative location or jurisdiction. The local green building regulations are mostly aligned to USGBC LEED v3 but are more specific to the region.

As a general requirement, for the purpose of credit compliance, excavated materials such as soil, sand, land clearing debris and hazardous wastes are exempted for calculation of the percentage of wastes diverted from disposal at landfill facilities. However, it is required to divert these substances to places designated by the concerned department of the local regulatory authorities.

Let us have a close look at various green building regulations and guidelines for minimizing C&D wastes generation.

1. LEED

The LEED rating system makes it mandatory for the project owner to develop and implement C&D waste management plan. Like other rating systems the main intent is to reduce the volume of C&D waste that is sent to landfills and incineration facilities by employing strategies such as reduce reuse, recovery and recycle of materials from the C&D waste stream.

Apart from mandatory requirements, up to 4 credit points can be earned for building and construction projects in building and material reuse optional credit category and awards up to 2 points in the C&D waste management category which uses reuse and recycle methods.

2. Dubai Municipality

Dubai Municipality doesn’t provide in-house certification for green buildings but enforces green building regulations by issuing building permits for projects within its jurisdiction.

As per Dubai Municipality regulations, it is a mandatory requirement for all new buildings except the buildings in the CBD area to divert at least 50% of wastes materials by volume (cubic meter) or by weight (kg/ tonne) from the total waste materials generated during construction and/ or demolition of buildings by using reuse and recycle strategies. Excavated soil, land clearing debris and hazardous waste materials are not taken into consideration for this requirement.

3. EHS Trakhees

EHS Trakhees green building department is the regulatory wing of Port, customs, Free zone Corporation (PCFC) jurisdiction. It enforces its green building regulations on all new construction projects of the jurisdiction. Projects seeking in-house certification can earn 1 point for diverting 50% of C&D waste materials from landfill disposal and 2 points for 75% of C&D waste diversion. These requirements can be achieved by using various strategies mentioned earlier.

In the building reuse credit category, EHS Trakhees awards up to 3 points for maintaining the existing building structure (including structural floor and roof decking) and envelop (the exterior skin and framing, excluding window assemblies and non-structural roof materials). In the material reuse credit category, 1 to 2 points can be earned by reusing salvaged building materials and products directly or after refurbishing those. These materials can be beams and posts, flooring, doors and frames, cabinetry and furniture, brick, and decorative items.

The project can earn 1 point for having 5% of salvaged, refurbished and reused materials based on the total cost of materials for the project. Similarly, 2 points can be earned for using 10% of those materials in the project.

4. Pearl Rating System for Estidama

This rating system is the sustainability initiative of Urban Planning Council (UPC) Abu Dhabi. It is a mandatory requirement under this rating system to divert a minimum of 30% of C&D wastes through recycling/ salvaging. There is no credit awarded for this but it encourages the reuse of existing building stock, reduce waste and associated environmental impacts by providing credit earning options for retaining percentage of building structural system.

construction-wastes

1 credit point can be earned for reusing 25% of building structural system by surface area and 2 credit points for reusing 50% of the total materials. In the material reuse category, 1 credit can be earned by demonstrating that the total materials cost of reused and salvaged materials represent 3% of the total material cost.

Conclusion

If appropriate sustainability rating system is used and the green building regulations are followed aptly and adhered, not only the volume of C&D wastes sent to landfills or incineration will be reduced significantly but also the demand for virgin resources construction materials will be reduced.

Eco-friendly Practices For Efficient Plumbing Systems

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When you tap into the faucet, do you ponder on the journey of water from the source to your sink? Probably not. However, people should be paying more attention to how water systems operate given how vital they are to their everyday lives. The good news is that there are efficient and eco-friendly practices that can help people manage these precious resources better.

efficient plumbing system

Importance of Efficient Plumbing Systems

No one likes water leaks or high utility bills; that’s why an efficient plumbing system is a paramount component of any modern home. Not only does it ensure adequate water supply for domestic use, but an efficient system also contributes to water conservation efforts significantly.

An efficient plumbing system reduces waste by minimizing leaks and uses less power pumping water around your home. While this may seem inconsequential, saving a few liters of water per day can add up to thousands of gallons over the year. Conservation also extends to energy usage; pumping less water requires less electricity, contributing towards a smaller carbon footprint.

Embracing eco-friendly practices in plumbing doesn’t just benefit households either – it’s advantageous on a broader scale too. Water treatment facilities can operate more efficiently when demand is mitigated. By decreasing overall consumption in your communities, you can allow these vital infrastructures to work at their best.

To learn more about organizations making a difference in eco-friendly endeavors, click here. Next up is making a smart choice with the materials and products you use in your plumbing system.

Green Plumbing Materials and Products

Thanks to advancements in technology and manufacturing, there are various green plumbing materials and products available today. Copper pipes, once ubiquitous in practically all homes, are slowly being phased out in favor of PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) pipes. PEX pipes neither corrode nor leach harmful substances, making them a safer and more eco-friendly option.

Other products go beyond materials. For instance, sensor-based faucets reduce water waste by shutting off when not in use – no need to worry about the faucet running unnecessarily. In addition, low-flow showerheads and toilets deliver sufficient water for cleaning and bathing while using significantly less water than their conventional counterparts.

Tankless water heaters are another excellent green product for your plumbing system. A tankless heater only heats up the required amount of water, conserving energy that would otherwise be wasted keeping a whole tank heated. They’re efficient, convenient, and provide an endless supply of hot water when you need it.

Water-Saving Appliances and Fixtures

Saving water doesn’t stop at the pipes; your choice of appliances and fixtures also plays a crucial role. EPA’s Energy Star program certifies energy-efficient appliances that save significant amounts of water and electricity throughout their lifespan.

Energy-efficient dishwashers, for example, use less than half the water of washing dishes by hand. Modern washing machines have also improved tremendously; models with efficiency ratings can save up to 20 gallons of water per load compared to older units.

When choosing fixtures such as toilets or faucets, look for those carrying WELS (Water Efficiency Labeling & Standards) ratings. The higher the rating or stars, the better its efficiency – lower water usage equates to significant savings on your utility bills over time.

eco-friendly commercial plumbing solutions

Effective Leak Detection and Repair

Water leakages are one of the primary causes of water wastage in homes. A minor leak might not seem like much, but a faucet dripping once every second can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water in a year.

Regular checks for leaks should be a part of your routine maintenance to ensure your plumbing system remains eco-efficient. This includes checking for dripping faucets, running toilets, and inspecting exposed pipes for any signs of leakage or moisture.

A professional plumber who specializes in leak detection can also help identify less obvious leaks within your walls or underground. Once detected, it’s essential to prioritize repairs to prevent further loss of water and potential damage to your property.

While this might seem like a daunting process, think about the potential water and money savings that could result from it – these repairs pay for themselves over time.

Energy-Efficient Water Heaters

A conventional water heater can represent a significant percentage of your utility bill. That’s why it’s worth considering switching to energy-efficient versions that can help you save both energy and money. These heaters range from solar ones, which generate heat from the sun’s radiation, to heat pump versions, using heat from the air or groundwater.

Solar systems are especially valuable during sunny seasons, as they can meet up to 100% of a household’s hot water needs. In turn, heat pump systems utilize the fact that compressing any gas increases its temperature – it’s a part of a thermodynamic cycle used in refrigerators as well. Professionals such as Dan’s Plumbing can advise on practical heating options.

Savings on your utility bills aren’t the only benefit of these devices – you’ll also be reducing the amount spent on maintenance since they typically have longer service lives than traditional models. Installation costs can be initially high, but the subsequent savings will eventually outweigh any upfront investment.

Insulating Pipes for Energy Conservation

Heating and cooling loss through uninsulated pipes can increase your energy consumption quite substantially. Insulation is a simple and cost-effective way to reduce your energy costs and improve the system’s overall efficiency, especially in cold climates where heat loss could be significant.

For hot water lines, insulated pipes can keep the water hot longer, meaning your water heater works less, and you don’t waste potable water while waiting for it to get hot. For cold lines, winterizing your home with insulation can prevent the pipes from freezing and bursting, which would lead to water waste and expensive repairs.

Glass fiber, foam, or rubber are standard materials used for pipe insulation. When rightly installed, the insulation could reduce up to 70% of heat loss.

Low-Flow Toilets and Showerheads

Switching to low-flow toilets and showerheads can contribute significantly towards conserving water. These fixtures maintain the same level of comfort while using fewer gallons per flush or minute.

The modern low-flow toilets consume only around 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf), much less compared to older models that use anywhere from 3.5 to 7 gpf. There’s also an option of dual-flush toilets allowing you to use different flush volumes depending on need – liquid wastes require less water compared to solid wastes.

Low-flow showerheads also help cut down on both your water and energy usage by limiting flow rates without compromising the performance. You still enjoy efficient showers but with substantially less resource consumption.

ecofriendly tankless heater

Sustainable Practices for Maintenance

A well-maintained plumbing system is critical for sustainability. Regular checks help detect leaks early, potentially saving thousands of gallons of water over time – not to mention avoiding unnecessary increases in your water bills.

Regular drain cleaning can help maintain optimal flow rates and prevent major clogs that could lead to back-ups or overflows. Being mindful of what you flush down the drains can also prevent blockages and potentially damage your plumbing system.

Don’t forget to also regularly check your sump pump, especially prior to wet seasons, ensuring its effectiveness during heavy rains. Sump pump failure could spell costly water damage to your house.

To Summarize

In a world where sustainability is continually growing in importance, every effort counts. Employing eco-friendly practices in your plumbing systems is an excellent start to this cause.

With the detailed benefits explained, it’s clear how these actions not only conserve these precious resources but also save money in the long run. So, why not make the switch today and contribute towards a greener future?

Building Businesses with Purpose: Social Entrepreneurship

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Although profit margins often dominate business discussions, a new wave of entrepreneurs is emerging, driven not only by financial success but by a deeper sense of purpose. Social entrepreneurship has taken root as a powerful means of positive change, emphasizing a fusion of profit-making with social impact. In this article, we delve into the key characteristics of social entrepreneurship. So, let’s explore how the business landscape is being reshaped by enterprises built with purpose.

Characteristics of Social Entrepreneurship

Defining Social Entrepreneurship

At its core, social entrepreneurship is about creating sustainable and scalable solutions to address pressing social and environmental challenges. Unlike traditional entrepreneurship solely focused on profit, social entrepreneurs leverage innovative business models to effect positive change. They identify gaps in society, develop innovative solutions, and build enterprises that prioritize social, environmental, and economic impact.

Examples of Social Entrepreneurship in Action

Social entrepreneurship can take many forms. Some of the common initiatives include microfinance institutions, fair trade organizations, renewable energy projects in underserved communities, and enterprises providing employment opportunities for marginalized groups.

Key Characteristics of Social Entrepreneurship

To help you understand all that goes into becoming a social entrepreneur, below are top five characteristic that are seen within organizations practicing social entrepreneurship.

1.  Mission-Driven Approach

Social entrepreneurs are guided by a clear and compelling mission to address a specific social or environmental issue. This mission becomes the driving force behind every business decision, aligning the company’s values with its impact objectives.

2. Innovative Solutions

Social entrepreneurs are known for their ability to think creatively and develop innovative solutions to complex problems. Whether it’s through technology, business models, or service delivery, these individuals seek transformative approaches to drive positive change.

how companies can become more eco-friendly

3. Triple Bottom Line

While traditional businesses focus on profit as the sole bottom line, social entrepreneurs adopt the triple bottom line approach. They measure success not only by financial profitability but also by social and environmental impact, creating a well-rounded evaluation of their enterprise.

4. Collaborative Ecosystems

Social entrepreneurship thrives on collaboration. Successful social entrepreneurs actively engage with diverse stakeholders, including governments, non-profits, businesses, and communities. Building a supportive ecosystem is crucial for scalability and sustained impact.

5. Sustainable Business Locations

Social entrepreneurs design business models that prioritize long-term sustainability. In their brick and mortar locations, they often strive to reach net zero emissions by a combination of efforts including: Utilizing renewable energy sources (such as installing a solar panel system), adding double or triple paned windows, switching to energy efficient lighting (such as replacing fluorescent lights with LED), and choosing energy efficient heating and cooling methods (such as a geothermal pump system).

Ways to Make Your Business Eco-Friendly

6. Measurable Impact

Social entrepreneurs are committed to quantifying and measuring the impact of their initiatives. Through metrics and key performance indicators, they track the progress of their mission, ensuring transparency and accountability to stakeholders.

7. Adaptability and Resilience

The social entrepreneurship landscape is dynamic and often challenging. Successful social entrepreneurs exhibit adaptability and resilience, embracing setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow. Their ability to navigate obstacles is crucial for the longevity of their impact.

Making an Impact, Not Just an Income

In a world faced with complex social and environmental challenges, social entrepreneurship stands out as a beacon of hope. Building businesses with purpose goes beyond profit margins; it involves a commitment to creating positive change and leaving a lasting impact on society. As more entrepreneurs adopt the key characteristics of social entrepreneurship, we can anticipate a transformative shift in the business landscape—one where purpose-driven enterprises become the norm rather than the exception.

The Problem of Plastic Pollution in the UAE and Possible Solutions

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Plastic pollution is a serious global issue. The United Nations Environment programme highlights that each day, “the equivalent of 2,000 garbage trucks full of plastic are dumped into the world’s oceans, rivers, and lakes”. Annually, this translates into some 19-23 million tons of plastic waste leaks into aquatic ecosystems and pollutes lakes, rivers and seas. According to data collected by Greenpeace, the MENA region has the world’s highest per capita plastic footprint. On average, “residents in MENA contribute more than 6 kg of plastic waste to the surrounding marine environment every year, as per World Bank report estimates, published in May, 2023. Meanwhile, plastic pollution continues to be a real problem in the UAE due to it affluence, increase in population, and growing consumerism.

plastic trash on a beach in the UAE

The scale of the UAE’s plastic pollution problem has both pragmatic and lasting consequences.  According to an Environment Agency Abu Dhabi survey, it is estimated that the average person in the UAE uses around 500 single-use plastic bottles per year, which is far above the global average. The effect of plastic pollution on the UAE’s environment is deadly as plastic ends up deposited in the ocean and harms marine life and ecosystems across the wider Persian Gulf. In 2022, Dubai officials found out that nine in ten turtles found dead near the UAE coast had plastic in their stomachs. From both an ethical and environmental perspective, it seems imperative to curb plastic pollution, otherwise the UAE’s marine life is at risk.

Realizing the risks and challenge plastic pollution poses to the environment, the UAE government is working to promote sustainable solutions to address this issue. The COP28 climate change conference in Dubai, which gathered thousands of environmental scientists, policy makers and activists from across the globe, has put added significance to the measure taken by the UAE.

The Plastic Free Pacific conference, which focused on plastic pollution in the Asia-Pacific region and globally, presented at COP28 and advocated for a paradigm shift to reduce the problem of plastic pollution and find solutions. COP28 raised the alarm, however looking at the damage plastic doing, there is need for highlighting the relationship between the world’s emissions of fossil fuels, as plastic production in manufacturing and consumption of goods is a high carbon emission activity.

Primary plastic polymers are essential to the manufacture of plastics, and some 98% of them are derived from fossil fuels. The move from plastic pollution in the form of plastic bags, cutlery and utensils and towards sustainable materials only makes sense if fossil fuels are phased out. This is as phasing out fossil fuels leads to decarbonizing plastic production and even reducing overall plastic production and the quantity of plastic deposited in the UAE’s beaches and oceans.

The UAE government, big business and NGOs are working together as part of the Rebound Plastic Exchange (RPE) project. The RPE project encourages people and businesses to recycle plastic waste, thus diverting plastic from ending up in landfills, incinerated or deposited in the UAE’s oceans. Therefore, through the RPE initiative the UAE seeks to reduce the amount of marine debris, and damage to marine life and ecosystems by plastic pollution. The RPE initiative will reduce the overall plastic consumption and curb the throwaway culture, thereby helping to preserve marine life and vulnerable ecosystems like coral reefs. The government and the civil society should work together to implement proactive measures such as responsible waste management practices, enhanced recycling systems, strict regulations on waste disposal and raising waste awareness.

The UAE government ordinance which plans to charge for and phase out disposable plastic bags is a seen as a pragmatic step in the right direction. Such efforts coincide with the focus on the UAE Circular Economy Policy, to promote better waste management to protect fragile ecosystem of the country.

plastic-waste-middle-east

Plastic waste pose a serious threat to marine life in the Middle East

In addition, the UAE has implemented other policies to curb plastic pollution. Abu Dhabi implemented a ban on single use plastics back in 2022, and to date 450,000 single-use plastic bags have been saved in the area. Sarah Goldsmith, writing for Borg and Overstrom, highlights the role of public policy with the ‘Dubai Can’ initiative. This initiative solves the problem of plastic pollution in Dubai by encouraging residents to use re-fillable water bottles and installing water dispensers and stations across the city. In turn, this policy decreases plastic pollution as the use of re-fillable water battles reduces the demand for plastic water bottles, much of which ends up in landfills to the detriment of wildlife and people because of the carcinogenic effects of plastic pollution.

Furthermore, the UAE government, charities and civil society have taken active steps to curb plastic pollution. The UAE government has banned plastic bags effective since the beginning of 2024. The UAE government has proposed a ban on the importation of plastic cutlery, cups, Styrofoam and boxes effective January 1, 2026.  When the UAE government’s decisive action on plastic pollution is evaluated in line with policy recommendations by businesses and charities, it can be argued that the UAE is mobilizing to tackle plastic pollution and find solutions to the issue. Putting in context the risk to environment, animal and human life, controlling plastic pollution has to be part of public awareness. Legislations and laws need public support to be successful.

Besides the direct impact of environment, plastic pollution negatively impacts the health of people as plastic. The influential environmental think tank, the Geneva Environment Network, has conducted research into the relationship between high levels of plastic pollution and human health and wellbeing. Some of the scientifically proven health implications of plastic pollution include higher levels of cancer, changes in human hormone activity (endocrine disruption) and reproductive, growth and cognitive impairment. In turn, the harmful effects of plastic pollution on human health also impact the UAE and its residents due to high levels of plastic pollution in this region. This is especially important given the scale of plastic pollution in the UAE. In a 2019 report, the World Bank estimated that some, “11 billion single-use plastic items in the UAE are consumed annually, an average of 4.8kg per person”.

Therefore, the health effects of plastic pollution in the UAE, especially given the UAE’s large plastic footprint, are alarming. The trophic transfer of micro-plastics into human food chain is an established fact. Since one animal eats another, micro-plastics move through the food chain, thereby endangering the lives of many animals and eventually having consequences for human health. Researchers Dr. Marcus Eriksen, an environmental scientist, and Dr. Ulrich Wernery, a veterinary microbiologist, both work in the UAE and have discovered that 1% of camels died due to the ingestion of plastic that amassed over time in their digestive tracts. These plastics kill ill camels slowly by blocking their intestines, tearing at internal organs and creating conditions for bacterial infection.

camel eating plastic wastes

Large numbers of camels in the Middle East die every year due to plastic ingestion

Plastic pollution has a serious impact on marine life, and this links with the need to find alternatives to plastic. Derek Baldwin, writing for Gulf News in 2016, notes, “Small fish prefer to eat the plastic and gorge themselves on tiny plastic pieces smaller than five millimeters” and this leads to stunted growth and greatly increased mortality rates. This has practical outcomes, too, and “divers in the UAE confirm that plastics witnessed in recent dives in local waters pose deadly hazards for fish and sea turtles that ingest the pollution believing the debris to be food”.

Overall, plastic pollution is a serious global problem and one that also affects the UAE. The rise of a consumer society, international trade and a growing population have led to an increase in plastic pollution. However, recent years have seen UAE society move towards policies that effectively curb plastic pollution, like Rebound Plastic Exchange (RPE) and the ‘Dubai Can’ initiative help reduce plastic consumption and encourage reusing plastic items rather than a throwaway culture. This is very important given the UAE’s tourism based economy and overreliance on the hospitality sector, and so reducing plastic pollution is important to keep the tourist industry running.

As the UAE is popular with tourists due to its beaches, diving and marine activities, plastic pollution can harm tourism prospects and lead to falling revenue from tourism. However, it is only if further legislation is passed by the UAE government that plastic pollution can be controlled in the long-term, as when the UAE government shifts policy then residents, NGOs and civil society will respond.

السياحة البيئية في سلطنة عُمان

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eco-tourismالسياحة والسفر والرحلات البرية والبحرية في العالم باتت ركيزة أساسية في كل مكان. وأصبحت محط أنظار الاقتصاديين في استغلال المكونات الطبيعية و التراثية الثقافية لرفع اقتصاد أي دولة في العالم. و تطورت السياحة في العالم الغربي بشكل كبير, و تزايدت اعداد السياح في العالم مما أدى إلى ظهور مكاتب مسؤولة عن السياحة في كل دولة لحساب عدد السياح من الجانب المحلي الإقليمي والدولي. و تطورت السياحة إلى حد كبير وتعددت أنواعها و مقاصدها؛ حيث وجدت السياحة الطبيعية، الرياضية، العلاجية، التعليمية، الثقافية الحضارية، الخضراء و المستدامة. وكل هذه الأنواع المختلفة من السياحة ضلت في ازدهار مستمر.

 حتى ظهر مصطلح السياحة البيئية في عام 1983، و قد تم إعلان العام 2002 عام السياحة البيئية في كيبيك في كندا، حيث زادت نسبة السياحة البيئية بحوالي 10-15% من إجمالي الإنفاق السياحي العالمي، و وفقاً لمنظمة السياحة الدولية فقد قام حوالي 30 مليون سائح دولي برحلات سياحة بيئية. و في هذا النطاق أحتلت جمهورية كوستاريكا الأمريكية  المرتبة الأولى عالمياً في تنمية قطاع السياحة البيئية.

وقد عرفت السياحة البيئية  من قبل الصندوق العالمي للبيئة بأنه "السفر إلى مناطق طبيعية لم يلحق بها التلوث ولم يتعرض توازنها الطبيعي إلى الخلل، وذلك للاستمتاع بمناظرها ونباتاتها وحيواناتها البرية وحضاراتها في الماضي والحاضر. و بمعنى آخر كذلك تعرف السياحة البيئية أيضا بأنها زيارة  إلى مناطق طبيعية غير معرضة نسبيًا لأية أضرار، وذلك للتمّتع بالطبيعة وأية معالم ثقافية حاضرة وماضية ترافقها. و يكون السائح مسؤولاً بيئيًا بحيث يحافظ على الموقع الطبيعي، و بأحداث أقل قدر من الضرر على الطبيعة ومواردها.

و تتمركز السياحة البيئية العمانية في عدة مكونات طبيعية منها؛ أولاً، جبال السلطنة الشمالية حيث تبرز جمال المناظر الطبيعية الخلابة مدعومة بالحياة البرية. و تتصف أنشطة السياحة البيئية في الجبال بشيء من المتعة والمغامرة، حيث  تقام رياضة تسلق الجبال، و المشي بينها، التخييم الجماعي، اكتشاف المغارات و الكهوف، و تتبع مجاري الأودية للوصول لمناطق ذات جمالية طبيعية. ثانياً، الصحاري إحدى أهم المواقع السياحية في السلطنة و من أهمها صحراء رمال وهيبة و صحراء الربع الخالي المرتبطة بالمملكة العربية السعودية من جهة الغرب. وفيها تقام أنشطة التخييم، مشاهدة النجوم ليلاً و المشي في الكثبان الرملية الذهبية. ثالثاً، المناطق الساحلية و البحرية التي تعد مواقع غنية بالتنوع الإيحائي،  ويتضح ذلك في منطقة رأس الحد في المنطقة الشرقية حيث تعشش أربعة أنواع من السلاحف ناهيك عن الشعاب المرجانية الموجودة في بحار السلطنة. و في هذا المجال قد طرحت السلطنة مشاريع  لتنمية السياحة البيئية ومنها عُمان تحت الماء و مشروع مشاهدة السلاحف. و قد عرفت المحميات الطبيعية في السلطنة مواقع سياحية بيئية.

و في عام 2010م حصلت السلطنة المركز الأول عالمياً في مجال السياحة البيئية، التي تمنحها صحيفة برلينا تاج زاوتون الالكترونية الالمانية المتخصصة. تعتبر الجائزة مؤشراً إيجابياً على سلامة النهج الذي تنتهجه السلطنة في مجال حماية وصون البيئة والذي يرتكز بشكل أساس على مبدأ تحقيق التوازن بين متطلبات التنمية الشاملة وحماية وصون الموارد الطبيعية.

و في هذا النطاق  تتميز السياحة البيئية في عُمان عن غيرها من الدول، حيث تعطي السائح طابعاً مميزاً، و تترك في ذاكرته جمال الطبيعة العمانية و عراقة التراث و التاريخ و سماحة العمانيين في استقبال السياح.  و بذلك يتحقق مطلب هذا النوع من السياحة لتبقى الاستدامة في المرتبة الأولى وبذلك تصان البيئات المختلفة و تبقى الموارد الطبيعية في استخدام متوازن للأجيال القادمة.

5 Ways To Keep Your Home Warm This Winter

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The year’s coldest and bitterest season can have us scrambling for room heater, extra jumpers, blankets and coats even within the comfort of our own homes. But it certainly doesn’t have to be the case. By making a number of incredibly simple changes, you can quickly replace the chill enveloping your home during the winter season with a welcomingly warm glow.

1. Eliminate draughts

A warm home isn’t just the result of an excellent source of heat; it is also contingent on its ability to retain heat. This is where insulation comes in. To prevent heat escaping, vulnerable areas like windows and doors need to be shored up.

draught proofing your home

Thankfully, these draughts can be eliminated inexpensively. You can buy a draught excluder for a few pounds; or, depending on your aptitude for DIY, you can even make one on your own – all from materials you more than likely have lying around the house.

2. Effective heating with domestic hot water circulators

Installing a circulating pump is a wise investment for a number of reasons. Not only will it provide your home with an instant supply of hot water, it will also more efficiently heat and distribute water around your home than a conventional boiler.

Central heating pumps from Pump Sales Direct are equipped with electric controlled wet rotor pumps, which allow the pump to intelligently adapt to your system’s changing demands to maintain maximum efficiency at all times.

3. Curtain call

A heat-saving change that won’t cost you a penny, opening and closing your curtains in tandem with the sun’s appearance is something you can’t afford not to take advantage of. It is important to use as much of the natural heat energy provided by the sun as possible and opening your curtains during daylight hours is an important heat-saving solution.

Keeping your curtains closed after the sun has gone in is equally important. The thicker your curtains, the more heat will be saved.

4. Stop heat escaping through chimney

Easily overlooked, chimneys can be a significant source of heat loss within the home. They can however, just as easily be closed over. Chimney balloons, relatively inexpensive at around £20, can be placed within the chimney hole, out of sight, and inflated until they occupy enough space to shut out incoming cold air and trap escaping heat.

5. Retain heat from your radiators

Usually reserved for wrapping up your lunch, tin foil can also be used as a heat-saving device. Positioned behind radiators, aluminium foil will reflect heat back into the room instead of allowing it to escape through walls.

ground source heat pump

The tin foil you’d find in your kitchen cupboards will make a difference, but if you want to see a more pronounced impact, you’ll have to shell out for specially designed foil. Still, at under £10, it represents excellent value for money.

Final Words

As you’ve hopefully learnt, keeping your home warm doesn’t require a gargantuan effort; it just requires some minor, easy-to-make changes. More effectively and efficiently heating your home also has a monetary benefit. If just having a warmer home wasn’t reason enough to make some changes, the added financial incentive should be more than enough of a motivator.

Solar Energy in Qatar

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Qatar’s solar energy future is steadily developing. With average daily sunshine of around 9.5 hours, low-cloud cover conditions and plentiful space, there is great scope for small, medium as well as large-scale solar power projects in the country. Qatar’s global horizontal irradiance is 2,140 kWh per m2 per year which makes it well-suited for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.

The country is geographically well-positioned to tap its tremendous solar energy potential and has set an ambitious target of 2 percent renewable energy contribution in the national energy mix by 2022. Solar energy has multiple advantages for Qatar in the form of energy security, improved air quality, reduced GHG emissions, employment opportunities, apart from augmenting water and food security.

solar-qatar-foundation

In addition to solar PV, Qatar has very good potential for concentrated solar power (CSP) as its direct normal irradiance (DNI) value is around 2,008 kWh per m2 per year which is above the minimum threshold of 1,800 kWh per m2 per year. Qatar’s concentrated solar power potential can be effectively utilized in seawater desalination processes as well as large-scale power generation.

CSP offers an attractive option to power industrial-scale desalination plants that require both high temperature fluids and electricity. CSP can provide stable energy supply for continuous operation of desalination plants, based on thermal or membrane processes, in Qatar. Leading CSP technology companies are taking a keen interest in Qatar solar market and rapid developments are expected in the coming years.

Major Developments

Qatar’s foray in solar sector has been boosted by its emergence as regional R&D hub and ongoing transformation into a knowledge-based economy. Currently, efforts have focused on developing solar capacity in the country through research centers, universities, utilities and pilot projects, and a number of institutions including Kahramaa, Qatar Foundation, QNFSP and QSTP are actively working on this front. Infact, the number of institutions and companies in Qatar’s solar sector has rapidly multiplied in recent years.

The state electricity and water utility Kahramaa is spearheading efforts to transform Qatar into a regional solar hub. Kahramaa’s first solar power facility, to be setup in Duhail over 100,000 m2 area, is expected to be operational by 2016 with a generation capacity of 15MW. Kahramaa has targeted a generation capacity of 200MW solar power at 60 sites across the country by 2020.

To make up for Qatar’s space constraints, the company plans to install solar panels on redundant surfaces such as roofs of power stations and water reservoirs, thereby utilizing existing power transmission lines which will substantially reduced construction costs.

Qatar Foundation has the largest pipeline of PV installations in the country and is producing around 85 percent of Qatar’s total solar energy. It recently announced the launch of one of the Gulf region’s first Energy Monitoring Centre (EMC) to manage its smart grid and monitor solar power generation across all sites within Education City. The EMC is part of the recently completed Solar Smart-Grid Project that added a total of 1.68MW of new solar photovoltaic (PV) systems at various facilities within the QF campus. The project is also the first commercial PV project in Qatar to be granted approval for grid connection from Kahramaa.

QNCC was the first LEED certified project in Qatar and remains its largest rooftop solar system installed to date. QSTech, a polysilicon plant owned by Qatar Foundation and SolarWorld, is nearing completion and will produce 8,000 tonnes per annum of high grade polysilicon for export to the world’s solar energy markets. QSTec is also constructing a 150 MW Solar Module manufacturing facility and a 1.4MW solar farm at Ras Laffan.

Qatar National Food Security Programme (QNFSP) has placed a strong emphasis on solar power as part of its master plan to devise a holistic solution to food security. QNFSP’s efforts are motivated by the objectives of Qatar’s National Vision 2030, which aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, in addition to achieving environmental sustainability. Desalination powered by solar energy will not only ensure affordable, sustainable and secure freshwater supply but will also help increase the capacity for farming.

The performance of photovoltaic systems is affected by local geographical and climatic challenges, including high temperature, humidity and soiling. Qatar Science & Technology Park and Chevron have established a test facility at QSTP which will evaluate ten to twenty different solar technologies, both photovoltaic and thermal. It is part of Chevron’s $20 million Center for Sustainable Energy Efficiency at QSTP, which will also evaluate solar air conditioning and low-energy lighting technologies. The aim is to provide local organisations with reliable data that will help them conduct solar feasibility studies, compare different technologies, and select the right products.