Build your Own Homemade Solar Panels with Home Solar Kit for Solar Energy
Time has come, when we all need to be quite vigilant in the use of electric devices and other electronics, to save as much on electrical consumption as mush we can. It not only helps us saving quite much on our electric bills but, also leave you with the environment that will be better for you and for your family. The experts are already busy in manufacturing the solar system kits for you. The decision is your while going for anyone of them but, DIY home solar kit is the best one to buy, as they it saves you great amount of money. These kits are quite easy to use as they are sold with instructions along that make it quite easy for you to install the system at your home.
You might get the feeling by looking at the kit that, it is impossible to assemble to get it start working but, it just needs a little bit of patience at your side and the right way to follow the instructions. Along with the kit you would also have to be buy some related material which you can buy from your nearest hard wear store or can buy it online from any website offering such services. Being a beginner, you can use the kit with smaller systems like TV, lighting and once you get to have some experience with it and it starts working for them, you can move on to bigger systems like AC and slowly and gradually bringing entire system working on the basis of it. If you want to try your hand at it for the entire home right from the beginning, you can take a help from any of your friend, provided if he/she has already gone through the same experience of using the kit to utilize the solar energy.
If you did not like this idea of homemade solar panels then you have a great choice in the market with companies giving out there services to install the systems at your home. They just have to be informed of the approximate consumption of the electricity and they will manufacture the right home solar kit for you. Only, you have to be careful while choosing the company or the service provider, so that you come to give this task to some reliable company, which will perform the task in the best manner.
This solar system saves you up to 70 % on electrical consumption and with just $200 you would be able to do this. This has given quite a boost to its sale and now it is being sold in different countries like UK and South Africa and many more. So, it is the right time to avail such an opportunity either by making use of the home solar kit or by any service provider, as with time the demand for it will definitely get increased hence leading the system to reach the rates that might not remain affordable to you after sometime anymore.
About the Author
Reynold Powers is an author of spheralsolar.com, One of the best Solar Panels & Home Power Kits company. He has been writing on home solar kit for a many years.
It's Easy Bein' Green: 16 Simple Steps to More Eco-Friendly Living
Here are 16 easy steps you can take to green up your home, without spending a lot of energy, time, or money.
1. Unplug appliances when you aren't using them. Some electrical items will actually continue to use energy when they are in "standby" mode. So you can save energy (and money on your utility bill) by getting in the habit of unplugging them when you are finished using them for the day.
Consider plugging your large appliances, such as the TV, VCR and stereo into a single power strip, so you can unplug everything at once.
Also, make sure you unplug all of your chargers (for your phone, ipod, laptop, etc.) when they aren't in use.
2. Call your local utility company to request an energy audit. Many local companies will set up these free assessments to give you a better idea of the amount of energy you use and how you can resolve to use less.
3. Reduce. Then Reuse. Then recycle. It's great to be in the habit of recycling things, but you can make a much bigger impact by reducing the goods you consume in the first place. Once you have bought something, see how many times you can reuse it before finally tossing it into the recycling bin.
4. Buy consumables in bulk. This can really minimize the amount of packaging that you are reusing and recycling. Avoid buying things with excess packaging.
5. Recycle everything you can. Make a game out of how little trash your family can produce. You might be surprised at the number of things that can be recycled. Take a trip to the local recycling center as a family, and take notes on all the different types of material they accept.
6. Install a programmable thermostat, so you can save money and energy on your heating and cooling bills.
7. Make sure to turn off the lights every time you leave the room. And make sure your front and back porch lights are off during the day.
8. As your standard light bulbs burn out, replace them with compact fluorescent bulbs, which are energy efficient and have a longer lifespan.
9. As your appliances wear out, replace them with Energy Star appliances.
10. Run appliances only when you need to. Run the washing machine only when you have a full load. Run the dishwasher only when it's full.
11. Hang clothes outside to dry (if your homeowners' association permits it).
12. Don't buy plastic water bottles. Purchase only BPA-free water bottles and reuse, reuse, reuse.
13. Instead of putting your computer in hibernation mode each night, turn it off, and unplug it.
14. Check your tire pressure. When your tires are at the proper level of inflation, you'll get optimal fuel efficiency.
15. Use cloth instead of paper when you can – for diapers and napkins, for example.
16. Purchase products made from recycled material, when available. You really can make a difference with your dollars. Think of each dime you spend as a kind of vote for the type of businesses, enterprises, and causes that you wish to support.
Being green won't take a lot of extra work, and will actually save you money in the long run, with lower utility bills and fuel costs.
It's easier than ever to adopt a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle. With our society's growing awareness of energy and conservation issues, there has never been more information, technology, or energy-saving gadgets to help us green up our lives.
What's more, the costs for these eco-friendly solutions are decreasing as more people are jumping on the green bandwagon. And because we're paying our own utility bills, our energy conservation efforts can benefit both our planet and our pocketbook.
For many of us, environmentally friendly decisions are now just a part of everyday life. Plus, if you have children at home who see you modeling a green lifestyle, your decisions will likely be passed on to the next generation - and beyond.
Here are 16 easy steps you can take to green up your home, without spending a lot of energy, time, or money.
<b>1. Unplug appliances when you aren't using them.</b> Some electrical items will actually continue to use energy when they are in "standby" mode. So you can save energy (and money on your utility bill) by getting in the habit of unplugging them when you are finished using them for the day.
Consider plugging your large appliances, such as the TV, VCR and stereo into a single power strip, so you can unplug everything at once.
Also, make sure you unplug all of your chargers (for your phone, ipod, laptop, etc.) when they aren't in use.
<b>2. Call your local utility company to request an energy audit.</b> Many local companies will set up these free assessments to give you a better idea of the amount of energy you use and how you can resolve to use less.
<b>3. Reduce. Then Reuse. Then recycle.</b> It's great to be in the habit of recycling things, but you can make a much bigger impact by reducing the goods you consume in the first place. Once you have bought something, see how many times you can reuse it before finally tossing it into the recycling bin.
<b>4. Buy consumables in bulk.</b> This can really minimize the amount of packaging that you are reusing and recycling. Avoid buying things with excess packaging.
<b>5. Recycle everything you can.</b> Make a game out of how little trash your family can produce. You might be surprised at the number of things that can be recycled. Take a trip to the local recycling center as a family, and take notes on all the different types of material they accept.
<b>6. Install a programmable thermostat,</b> so you can save money and energy on your heating and cooling bills.
<b>7. Make sure to turn off the lights every time you leave the room.</b> And make sure your front and back porch lights are off during the day.
<b>8. As your standard light bulbs burn out, replace them with compact fluorescent bulbs,</b> which are energy efficient and have a longer lifespan.
<b>9. As your appliances wear out, replace them with Energy Star appliances.</b>
<b>10. Run appliances only when you need to.</b> Run the washing machine only when you have a full load. Run the dishwasher only when it's full.
<b>11. Hang clothes outside to dry</b> (if your homeowners' association permits it).
<b>12. Don't buy plastic water bottles.</b> Purchase only BPA-free water bottles and reuse, reuse, reuse.
<b>13. Instead of putting your computer in hibernation mode each night, turn it off</b>, and unplug it.
<b>14. Check your tire pressure.</b> When your tires are at the proper level of inflation, you'll get optimal fuel efficiency.
<b>15. Use cloth instead of paper</b> when you can – for diapers and napkins, for example.
<b>16. Purchase products made from recycled material</b>, when available. You really can make a difference with your dollars. Think of each dime you spend as a kind of vote for the type of businesses, enterprises, and causes that you wish to support.
Being green won't take a lot of extra work, and will actually save you money in the long run, with lower utility bills and fuel costs.
About the Author
Visit <a href="http://Susies-Coupons.com">Susies-Coupons.com</a> to find discounts and coupons on energy-star appliances. And check <a href="http://office-supply-coupons.com">Office Supply coupons</a>to find discounts on green office supplies.
Build a Water Powered Mill
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Green and growing. Hiatt joins the Board of Directors of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) New Hampshire Chapter
Hampton Falls, NH…
Jeff Hiatt, managing member Performance Business Solutions, LLC has joined the Board of Directors of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) New Hampshire Chapter. Hiatt works with accountants, attorneys, and other experts to determine the best way for clients to reduce costs, with a special focus on energy, and increase profits.
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is a non-profit organization composed of leaders from across the building industry working to advance buildings that are environmentally responsible, profitable and healthy places to live and work. Driving its mission to transform the built environment is the Council's LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) green building certification system. LEED is a third party certification program and the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high performance green buildings. LEED is accessible on-line and supported by a robust LEED Workshop program and the LEED Professional Accreditation program.
USGBC supports a rich education and research agenda, including Greenbuild - the largest international conference & expo focused on green building. The Council also supports an aggressive education and advocacy program delivered at the local level through 78 chapters and affiliates across the U.S.
Since its founding in 1993, USGBC has been focused on fulfilling the building and construction industry's vision for its own transformation to high-performance green building. Today, it includes more than 15,700 member companies and organizations. In testament to its leadership, in the past five years alone, USGBC's membership has quadrupled and over 3.6 billion square feet of building space are involved with the LEED program. The annual U.S. market in green building products and services was over $7 billion in 2005 and is now over $12 billion.
Industry-led and consensus-driven, the Council is as diverse as the marketplace it serves. Membership includes building owners and end-users, real estate developers, facility managers, architects, designers, engineers, general contractors, subcontractors, product and building system manufacturers, government agencies, and nonprofits. Leaders from within each of these sectors participate in the development of the LEED certification system and the direction of the Council through volunteer service on USGBC's open committees.
"It is an honor and a pleasure to serve on the board of the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) New Hampshire Chapter," noted Jeff Hiatt, managing member Performance Business Solutions, LLC. He added, "The organization is making great strides in communicating an environmentally sound message to the building community and creating a forum to exchange ideas and methods to create buildings that are environmentally friendly, profitable to manage and healthy, safe places to live and work."
About the Author
For more information on the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) New Hampshire Chapter, contact www.usgbcnh.org.
Performance Business Solutions, LLC is located at 87 Lafayette Rd. Suite 11, Hampton Falls, NH 03844. The company helps businesses nationwide reduce expenses in a variety of areas. Jeff Hiatt of Performance Business Solutions, LLC, works with accountants, attorneys, and other experts to determine the best way for clients to reduce costs and increase profits.
For additional information, contact Jeff Hiatt, (508) 878-4846,jdh@revenuebanking.com, www.revenuebanking.com.
Solar Systems CEO Nathan Thompson Explain The Green Affiliate Program
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India will enter jupiter dasa in 2011 after mai. There will be a big change in India after the month of mai. The month of mai and before mai might be very disturbing.
For more than 16 years, India was running rahu dasa. Rahu is illusion, materialism, dirty, black magic, manipulation and extreme corruption, meat, oil. Jupiter is the reverse, a positive change. The change will be very big. The first half of jupiter dasa wich is the house of pisces ruler neptune.Neptune is in the 7th house combined with mars and ketu. Mars is ruling the 2th house.
The nakshatra of India is Aswini, the lord is ketu. This is the main reason why India is the country of the Gods. Indians no doubt are the most spiritual and religious people in the world.
Every god and religion is welcome in India. Ketu also means learning and suffering and rising after the suffereing. The Gods themself protect India. The hymalaya is the house of the Gods and very sacred.
The water from the spring of the Ganges is extremely powerfull. Many indians wrongly think the poluted water in Varanasi has miraculeus properties. Indians sadly have very little respect for the holy rivers and don"t keep the river clean.
The divine water from the Ganges and other rivers could do miracles in India and feed many.
India will become wealthy, business will soar. There will be a spiritual wind in India. There will be happiness Buddhism, christianity and Islam will grow and merge with Hinduism . Prince Sidharta was after all a hindu-prince. India experiened ultimate happiness for the people under the rule of king Ashoka. It was the golden period of India.
The father of the state India Gandhi but also Nelson Mandela both Practised the Indian dharma and forgave their enemies. Both were succesfull in liberating their country without violence.
In 2011 Indians will turn to ancient vedic knowledge. The vedic sciences are supreme, for example vedic mathematics is much more advance than old fashioned mathematics.
Materialism will be less important, or should I say the quest for materialism, since India will prosper more than now..people will be truly happy. The ruler of the 7th house uranus in the 4th. Many houses will be build. New high tech cities will build based on vastu shastra the comming years..
India will be a happy place again. The gods will be worshipped, People will learn the ancient vedic sciences. Cities will be turned in green paradises. There will be a new rule to keep your houses and surrounding clean and green.
The unreal material world will be less important. Many people might loose their job in 2012 when the second half of jupiter will be more important.
It will be very hot and dry in India after 2013, it is now time to take precaution before it is too late and India will face a terrible drought. Canals should be constructed from the hymalaya. Snow should be melted and trough tubes been transported to the rest of India. The desserts and dry parts could be green again with the help of snowwater. Rainwater should be stored in mountains and wells.
There will be huge tensions in the world and India might have it share. War will loom between east and west, but India will not take part in it. Others will try to create war between Pakistan and India. But India will not react as they hardly reacted during the Kargill conflict, Export might be affected, imports as well. The merchant navy in danger.
Still India should stay out of troubles and not enter any war. Instead India should play the role of mediator and peacemaker. Since India has always been a real neutral country, nowdays withouth enemies.China nor Pakistan wants war with India and both understand that India wants peace with every one.
India has a mighty army and has become one of the leading superpowers, though they will never show it. The defence technology is so advanced that many discoveries are been sold to foreign countries. The Arihant submarine is the most advanced in the world. The Arjun battletank unbeatable. The LCA so small and mavouvrabe that it is truly stealthy. The LCA-tejas is made of a secret composite materials and cannot been shot down.
India has the doctrine peace backed by force. In this violent world a non-violent nation can only be guaranteed with a strong technological advanced army.
There is however a catch. The blackmoon and the jacobson lilith are both in the second house. India could be seduced by lillith, the dark force wich comes seductive. Lillith is comming in orbit to India"s Iillith in the horoscope. When ever lillith in orbit comes to your birth lillith it means you will meet some one who has a very strong sexual effect on you.
For example a passionate love affair wich turns out to be destructive, lilith wants to destroy by seducing. Many hidden sexual love affairs start with the lillith lillith transit. Secret enemies will aproach India with seductive proposals, but everything what looks too good to be true, is always bad.
In 2011 it will rain much more in India because the moon in the progressed horoscope will enter its own sign cancer Parts of India might be flooded. It will also snow. Beautifull babies will be born, pet animals will be the new fashion, in particular dogs and singing birds. It is believed in the scriptures that singing birds and white pidgeons are the messengers of the gods and bring luck. Garuda is the king of birds, the Garuda Purana a beautifull verse.
Dogs are lucky for Indians since the ruler of the nakshatra of India Aswini is ketu. Dogs when well taken care for bring wealth and happines, most wealthy indians have petdogs. It is not without reason that Holland and the USA are soo rich. They treat dogs as they treath their own children.
The moon also rules the 5th house of the Indian horocope. Love and Romance will be on the rise in 2011. Indians who are single will find their real love. Those who are married will have more romance.
Indian boys and girls will not longer get married because of material reasons but only because love and romance, after all the Kama sutra is from India. There are no differences when real loves comes between race, cast and religion.
There were is real love Laksmi comes and the house will have wealth, abundance and happiness.
The best example is Sharukh Khan (muslim), he married Gauri(hindu) when he was poor, but the godness Laksmi helped them in a startling way.
Prepare for the worst
When the big war starts between the west and the fundamentalists and the far east the world economy will enter a new phase. The downfall will be very severe.
It is advisable to stockpile food, drinks, waterfilters and everything you need, minimum a year or even 3 years.
Stocks and options wil loose value, the stockexhange even cease to exist. Don"t invest in those things. They are part of the old world and even a scam as Satyam was..
Invest in yourself and those around you and stockpile food and other materials wich you might need.
Sell everything wich you don"t need and give away wich you don"t need. It is bad to store clutter.
Strengten the ties with friends, neighbours and familymembers. The world will be in severe turmoil. It is time to have real friends and neighbours as friends.
Invest in your own microwindmill and solarcells. Energy will be a costly affair in the future. Or should I say already in 2011 your electricity bill will go up. In 2012 and beyond India might face very high oil prices.
Sell your gold wich you don"t need. Gold is a bad investment, you will get only half of wich you have paid for.
Repair everything. Always have your car and scooter fueled.
Store some fuel for emergency.
Invest in agriculture and start planting, the world will be short in food. India could become the major foodsuplier in the world.
Adopt -a-poor-farmer, invest in a poor farmer and buy back the crops. Poor farmers sadly still don"t have acces to normal investors. Investing in a poor farmer will give you a save return and the blessings of the gods.
The backboon of India are the more than 800.000 villages. If a poor farmer has 100 rupees a day more to spend that amount would have a huge positive effect on the indian economy in the whole.
The real economical growth will come from the million villages and not from abroad.
Light coloured amethist in the indexfinger wich relates to pisces.
Wearing amethist makes you unresistable and lucky in India
Red garnet gives power and drive and improves your lovelife very much when you are married
Diamond, white saphire and substitutes.
Lucky colours for clothes cars and buildings: all shades of green, all shades of pink, all shades of purple, white. From mai onwards yellow and yellow, safron, light blue.
Wearing purple will make a guy extremely handsome.
Sleep till 2 hours before sunrise. Take a shower without chemical soap and shampoos, never use toothpaste with fluor. Oil your body every wednessdays and saturday (never on another day) luck love and happiness will come to you.
Light the sacred fire in the south east of your house and stare in it for a few minutes.
Practise yoga for 10 minutes and your day will be lucky.
In your house never keep clutter and keep your house clean, clean with salty water. Store water or a aqaurium in the north east, keep the centre open, have a ghee candle in the south east. Place heavy objects in the southwest of your house. Sleep with your head pointing east or south, never to the north. Always sleep with a window open so fresh prana can enters your house.
Have singingbirds in your house and plants wich bring luck in your house.
The Gods of all religions are with you
Be ready for the new world, be ready for the change.
http://www.martinrai.com
About the Author
Martin Rai is a vedic astrologer with extensive knowledge of other vedic sciences such as vastu shastra, vedic maths and other interesting vedic knowledge.
You can contact Martin Rai for more information on his website.
green mountain energy - Top reps use the funded proposal
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It’s been getting easier to make your home more green energy friendly. The technology has gotten so much better for using solar and wind for power that it has become much more easy to build your own systems.
In a green energy home you can use solar hot water heaters to heat all of hot water needs. It not only heats it, you can store it in a holding tank for later use. You would install solar collector panels with photovoltaic cells to convert the sun to energy. If you go with purchasing a system and having it installed for you it could be kind of pricey, but you would recoup your investment over a period of years. You could build and install it yourself if you have any mechanical ability and save some money.
If you are in the process of building your home you could have it take advantage of the sun by implementing a passive solar design using the south facing side of the house for heating and cooling. If you have highly efficient windows and heat retaining materials you could reduce your heating bill in the winter by using the suns energy.
Another use of green energy is to use windmills. This will allow you to take advantage of the wind to generate some electricity. Of course if you live in an area that does not have many windy days this may not be the route for you. Otherwise windmills are a very efficient way to supplement your power. You can buy windmills from retailers and have them installed or buy kits and build and install them yourself.
The ultimate scenario would be if you could take advantage of both of these methods of green energy to power your home. By using the wind and sun to generate electricity you are looking not only at huge savings with the possibility of profits from your electricity usage, but you would truly have a green home as each of these options will contribute little to global warming.
About the Author
Discover how you can build your own energy friendly home at Green Energy Home . Josh Stevens is an energy savings enthusiast interested in solar power.
alternative power, use constant and renewable energy
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Sungazing House Knocks the Socks Off Green Building Standards: Passive House, Net Zero Energy, LEED
Sungazing House, winner of the Green Builder Media's Green Home of the Year 2010 award, creates big shows to fill for aspiring green builders and homeowners everywhere. Located at an altitude of 6,900 feet in Park City, Utah, Sungazing House experiences average annual temperatures around 35 degrees and over 10,000 Heating Degree Days per year. Undaunted by the challenge of sub-zero weather, architect Jean Yves Lacroix managed to design a home so efficient that it meets the requirements of the gamut of energy efficient building standards: Passive House, Net Zero Energy, LEED Platinum for Homes and NAHB Emerald.
Owner Kevin O'Meara drew inspiration from the Passive House standard and its ambitious goal of reducing energy consumption by 90% compared to an average home. O'Meara challenged Lacroix to combine the highest level of energy efficiency with luxury and livability; in his own words, "We wanted to build something energy efficient and attractive at the same time."
The result: a gorgeous, 3,800 square-foot home that produces more energy than it consumes and sits perched on the southern slope of the Wasatach Mountains with breathtaking views of the Swaner Nature Preserve.
Key Design Features:
• Building envelope: an airtight, well-insulated building envelope is the starting point for any energy-efficient home. Sungazing House keeps its warmth in and the cold out with insulated 12" walls and 16" ceilings. The super-insulated SeriousWindows employ suspended film technology and high-quality fiberglass frames to deliver high R-values and low air infiltration and to minimize unwanted heat loss/gain.
• Passive solar heating and site orientation: Sungazing House sits on the South-facing slope of the Wasatach Mountains. The combination of large expanses of South-facing windows and strategic overhangs allows the low winter sun to heat the home during the cold months and prevents overheating in summer. Sungazing House features custom-tuned Series 925 windows from Serious Materials with high solar heat gain on the windows with southern exposure and low solar heat gain on East and West-facing windows.
• Efficient ventilation: a Heat Recovery Ventilator (HRV) provides the home with well-conditioned fresh air without losing large amounts of energy in the outgoing air and expending energy on heating the incoming air.
• Onsite solar power: Sungazing House is so efficient that it does not require any gas for space or water heating. A rooftop solar array both generates electricity and heats water for the home.
• Efficient Appliances: ENERGY STAR rated appliances minimize energy consumption.
Cati O'Keefe, editorial director at Green Builder Media, explains, "We chose this project as our Green Home of the Year because of the way it marries sleek European design with high performance."
O'Meara's main focus was simple - in his own words, "I was all about energy efficiency."
About the Author
High performance SeriousWindows can play an integral role in the success of passive solar design.SeriousWindows are top-of-the-line windows that use suspended film technology and inert gas fills for optimal insulation performance. They feature high R-Values, low air infiltration and a full range of glazing packages to customize solar heat gain. Find out more about SeriousWindows .
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Did You Know How You Can Build Your Own Solar Panel
Today people everywhere over the world are looking for information about solar panels and how to build them. Solar power is one of the most cost effective forms of energy because of the rising popularity around the globe.
Solar energy now allows us to be able to power our houses and power electronic devices very efficiently. We can call on professionals to install solar panels to our homes but being able to build your very own solar panels is becoming all the rage.
Buying solar panels outright can be extremely expensive, especially since you would probably need more than the one. You would be amazed at how many $1000's you can save just by learning how to build your own solar panels.
Is it possible, can anyone really build their own solar panels, and believe me its not really that difficult to assembly one of your own. Researching is your next step, you want to be searching for guides that will illustrate how this can be done in the simplest way. A great guide will come with a step by step manual.
Building your own solar panels can be fun, but the cost can be one of the most exciting parts. With the required materials such as, copper wiring, glass, plywood, etc you would be amazed at what you can put together in a day. If you have all the materials, a great easy to follow kit with clear instructions it is very possible to be able to build a 100 watt solar panel in a day. A section of a small shop or a small electronic gadget can be powered with one of these 100 watt solar panels.
If you decided to go ahead and purchase one of these diy solar energy guides, you would have to make sure this guide offers a step by step manual, with clear instructions and illustrations. With all of these you would have no problems in assembling your very own solar panel.
Believe it or not some of these guides will show you how to build an efficient solar panel for less than $200. So not only would you be saving a fortune in installation on solar panels, $1000's in electricity by having your own solar panels, but you would also be saving our enviroment too. I certainly recommend getting online and checking our some product name reviews, these are people that have successfully constructed their very own solar energy system and are kind enough to share their experiences and results with the rest of us. Go for it, make it a fun thing, do it with the kids, learn how to build your own solar panel and save $1000's.
About the Author
Justine is a professional woman researching the benefits of Solar Energy Systems Solar Energy is certainly the way of the future, especially in the home, building your own solar energy system is really not that difficult, here is a fantastic article with everything you need to know about DIY Solar Panels The initial Cost Of Solar Energy is a must read also.
Race Solar Cars With Your Kids
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Energy suppliers and their general characteristics which make them who they are
It is impossible to live without electricity and gas, especially in these recent times when so much development has occurred. This is why everybody somehow has energy suppliers for the different types of energy they need at home and at the work place. Since there are so many uses for electricity and gas in our homes, energy suppliers are becoming more and more each day as the demand and the competition increases. There are some energy suppliers in the United Kingdom who have very affordable rates and very simple and friendly terms of service. Finding energy suppliers has never been easier, especially with the internet at hand. You can find many energy suppliers online, so that you get the chance to compare each one of them. It is in such sites that each one of the energy suppliers posts their portal so that you are able to view their d8ifferent rates before making a decision. Their services are also displayed on their sites,. Therefore, the internet is a better place to search for the best energy suppliers for your energy needs at home. However, you need to reduce cost by looking for energy suppliers that are around your area. Therefore, you need to search them by category and by putting in your address so that the list of energy suppliers in your area is visible to you. In order to know more about a certain energy supplier, you should look at what the customers say about the supplier. This way, you will get a clearer picture about this supplier. When you are settled about the energy suppliers you want, just send in an online application by filling the form they provide online and send it over to them. Once this is done, wait for their response, which will either be by mail or by calling you. Once they respond, you should get a quotation and a subscription from them. In the UK, you will have absolutely no problem finding good energy suppliers because they are there in plenty. Because of that, you will have a range of tariffs to choose from, which are offered by the different energy suppliers. You also do not have to worry about convenience, because nowadays the energy suppliers have made their services better so that you are able to operate you electricity account via the internet. Gas supplies are just a click of a mouse away or a phone call away, but the payments are made online so that you can still operate your gas account online. The other advantage to customers is that energy suppliers have become more aware of the environment, and they now give energy in forms that are more and more environmentally friendly. Therefore, this is a consideration you should make when looking for energy suppliers. Do the energy suppliers supply Green Energy in forms of biogas and other "green" forms of energy? The energy suppliers should also help you conserve energy by being actively helpful and by giving important information and tips to you. About the Author
First Utility are one of the UK's leading energy suppliers providing the best prices on gas and electricity . If you are looking to compare electricity or gas prices please feel free to contact us.
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REDD as a mechanism to combat deforestation and climate change impacts in Darel and Tangir Valleys in Pakistan: A Review
Introduction
Gilgit – Baltistan previously named Northern Areas with an area of 72,496 sq kms is a Federally administered territory sharing borders with China and Afghanistan. The region where three highest mountain ranges (Karakoram, Himalya and Hidukush) converge is known for its spectacular geographical landscape, rocky and rugged mountains, glaciers, snow covered high mountain peaks including K2, Concordia and Nanga Parbat famous for international tourism and mountaineering. River Indus joined by many tributaries draining from inner valleys flow through the entire mountainous tract before entering into Tarbela reservoir in NWFP. Mixed dry temperate coniferous forests with pine, oak, juniper and scrub forests, rich high alpine flora, aromatic medicinal plants, wild ungulate species like Markhor, Ibex, Snow leopard, Brown bear, Blue sheep and Marco-Polo sheep make the region a biodiversity hotspot of immense national and global significance.
Khunjrab National Park north of Gilgit shares its borders with Qaxkargan National Park in China. Fragility of the mountain ecosystem, high altitudinal and climatic variability make Gilgit - Baltistan an excellent place to study the impacts of global climate change. Moreover, ethnic, lingual and cultural diversity of tribal population settled in distinct niches and remote valleys make it a unique geographical entity on planet earth. Its population thinly scattered over six administrative districts of Gilgit, Ghizar, Diamir and Astore in Gilgit Division, Skardu and Ghanche in Baltistan Division has surged to about 1.2 million in 2009 from 8,70,347 in 1998. Only 10 % population live in towns, remaining 90% population live in villages located in remote valleys.
Natural forests, legally classified as "protected" and "private" in Gilgit - Baltistan cover an area of 2,81,600 ha making 4% of the total land area. The private forests are mostly located in Chilas, Darel and Tangir valleys covering an area of 217,088 ha, remaining protected forests are scattered in small pockets in Astore (30,720 ha), 24,576 ha in Gilgit, Punial and Nagar, and 9,216 ha in Baltistan. The Forestry Sector Master Plan (FSMP, 1992) estimates 381,000 ha scrub forests in addition to natural forests which if included make the total forest cover as nine percent. Dry temperate forests comprising of Deodar, Kail, Chalghoza, Fir, Spruce, Oak and six Juniper species with scanty underground vegetation exist in pure and mixed stands adapted to very rugged terrain in remote valleys. Walnut, Birch and Taxus, Acer species have almost vanished from the natural forests due to over-exploitation and excessive grazing.
No land settlement has ever taken place in Darel and Tangir, even after partition in 1947.As such forests are not demarcated on ground, local tribal communities claiming defacto ownership of private and protected forests. During last two decades, these forests forming watersheds of Indus River, performing ecosystem functions and services as well as sustaining local livelihoods have been subject to ruthless deforestation through timber mafia. A recent National Forest and Range Resources Assessment Study (NFRRAS), 2004 conducted through Pakistan Forest Institute, Peshawar using satellite imageries has reported highest rate of -10% deforestation in Gilgit – Baltistan during the period 1997-2002 as compared to other provinces.
Darel and Tangir Valleys
Darel and Tangir valleys contain the contiguous blocks of precious natural forests that are confronted with heavy socio-economic pressures and climate change impacts. The British called Indus River Valley below Chilas and its tributary valleys like Darel and Tangir as "Yagestan" land of the free. Traditional Silk route used by tradesmen of Central Asian countries and Buddhist missionaries during 4th century B.C. passed through Darel. Buddhist art carvings on big rock boulders along roads and remnants of a Bhuddist University still existing in Phuguch village in Darel thus depicting rich historic and archaeological significance of these areas. Most important villages of lower Darel include Gayal, Phuguch, Somigal Bala, Somigal Pain which are not densely forested. However, Upper Darel which comprises the villages of Manikiyala Bala, Manikiyala Pain, Padyal, Yehshoot have comparatively dense forests. Lower Darel does not receive snowfall whereas upper Darel receives heavy snow fall.
Darel and Tangir valleys which acceded to Paksitan in 1952 are very rich in water, pasture and forest resources. Fresh water from snowmelt in permanent snow fields,glaciers and alpine pastures flow through the entire length of these valleys. Most of the villages settled along river with rock terrace agriculture fields are primarily dependent on agro-pastoral farming system as source of livelihood supported by cash income from forests and horticulture crops walnut, cherry, apple, grapes, mulberry and apricots. Cultivation of potatoes and peas has recently picked up as a cash crop. The commissioning of 840 km Karakoram Highway in 1978 and development of valley link roads have opened remote villages to uninterrupted down country marketing networks, thus enhancing their household income, and facilitating easy procurement and transportation of food and other essential commodities from down country. In Tangir, it is fascinating to see a contiguous block of evergreen oak forest well protected by the villagers for green fodder during winter months. It is common to store dry grass and haystack over chopped branches of old trees. During summer (May onwards) tribal communities take their livestock to high pastures in Ko Nallah, Khanbari, Biaree Nallah, Chila Nallah etc and stay there for five months till end of October. Illiterate young boys and girls are mostly responsible for grazing of livestock in pastures.
In the absence of land settlement and boundary demarcation, local people in Darel and Tangir claim defacto ownership of the agriculture and forest lands. In Darel 80 to 90 % people have ownership while in Tangir less than 50 % own private forests. As a thumb rule, the first settlers of this area are "Malikans" or owners of the forest, while those who migrated later on from other areas like Kohistan, Kashmir etc are not right holders. Generally the ethnic groups Shin, Yashkund and Kamin have ownership while in some areas Sayyeds also have ownership. The system of commercial harvesting of private forests in Daril and Tangir started in 1973 under working scheme which is basically a harvesting plan. A committee comprising of one member from each clan normally sells the forest to contractors. An agreement is drawn between the committee and the contractor and endorsed by the Assistant/Deputy Commissioner. The system is not transparent as most of the time the Committee is blamed by the owners of taking commission from the contractor.
In private forests, marking of dry, dead, diseased and mature trees is conducted by the Forest Department under selection-cum-improvement working circle. After marking, the contractor would pay Royalty and Malkiana. Royalty, a type of fee on the extraction of timber from forests is realized from the contractor on converted timber. Once the converted timber reaches to a specified place or depot, the Forest Officials do the measurements to estimate the royalty. The contractor then deposits the estimated amount in DFO's account and subsequently he releases the 50 % community share to Deputy/Assistant Commissioner for distribution to the communities, remaining 50 % is retained by the GBFD. At present. Royalty is Rs 40/cft for deodar, Rs 30/cft for Kail and Rs 19/cft for fir.and spruce. The rules of distributing Royalty is different in different areas. In some areas it is distributed among all the population (male, female and children). Yet in other areas royalty is distributed among male members only. But in most cases it is distributed among all the members of the population. In addtion to royalty owners aslo get malikana. The malikana is fixed when the agreement is drawn between the owners commiittee and contractor. Malikana is determined on the basis of market rates of timber and it changes with the passage of time. Malikana is also paid on converted timber on per cft basis. Currently the average malikana is Rs. 300 to 400/cubic feet for Deodar and it all goes to owners and forest department has nothing to do with it.
Informal discussions with the forest staff,of Chilas and Darel Tangir Forest Divisions at Babusar village on 26 7-2009 revealed that prior to 1988, the commercial exploitation under working schemes progressed well without any significant illegal damages to forests. After 1988 due to sectarian conflict in Gilgit - Baltistan and the subsequent imposition of ban on commercial harvesting of forests, illegal cutting of forests proceeded on a massive scale. Darel and Tangir being purely a Sunni religious sect, taking advantage of the weakness of civil administration and its inability to enforce writ of the government some of the influential community elders as owners of the private forests solicited support of timber contractors operating in whole sale timber market in Dargai Mandi and Swat and resorted to illegal cutting of forests. After massive illegal cutting of private forests in 1988, these unscrupulous contractors using corrupt practices were successful in getting the permission to release 0.3 million cft illegal timber and sell it in the Dargai timber market. This decision paved way and led to an unending process of illegal cutting of the private forests to the extent of 1.0 million cft in 1992, 3.00 million cft in 1998. Presently it is estimated that another 4.0 million illegally cut wood is awaiting decision for disposal.
Massive illegal cutting of forests from fragile upper Indus River catchments and dumping of illegal timber in scattered stacks all along the Karakoram highway from Chilas to Dasu in Indus Kohistan presents a pathetic scene to the incoming and outgoing tourists travelling on this road who are unable to understand the source of these timber supplies in the backdrop of desolated, sun scorched rocky mountains devoid of any vegetation. While the foot-prints of old civilizations that passed through these areas are preserved as art carvings on rocks, the foot prints of modern civilization are visible in the form of ruthless deforestation.
In the present situation, Gilgit- Baltistan Forest Department has become a defacto organization to promote the interests of the timber mafia rather than advance its basic mandate of the sustainable management of forests. The Department has no power or authority to take management decisions based on technical principles. Its territorial staff all the times remain entangled in illegal harvesting practices by the vested interests, all the year round, with no time to spend in the forests contributing towards forest protection, conservation and natural regeneration. All the year round, FD staff remains busy in illegal harvesting practices by the vested interests, and in making inventories of the illegally wood dumped in desolate roadside depots all over the Karakoram highway and hauled all the way down from once dense lush green forests in Thore, Thack, Hudor, Khiner and other valleys. If the Gilgit-Baltistan Forest Department is delegated the authority to manage the private and protected forests in NA, then it would require capacity building and institutional strengthening through induction of additional staff for better management planning and technical decision making.
The prevailing notion that primitive tribal communities in Darel and Tangir are responsible to illegally cut and sell their forests to earn their livelihood is not true. The concept of conservation is not alien to tribal culture. They have been living in these areas since centuries and are quite aware of the importance of natural assets and their vulnerabilities. About 95 % of the communities owning these forests are not involved in the massive deforestation. There appears a trust-deficit between the local communities and the owners. As per customary law and the 1952 accession deed, all forests in Darel and Tangir are the property of the communities and not the government, this needs to be honored in true letter and spirit. Given the existing uncertain situation, and continuous ban on commercial harvesting, the best way of managing these forests is to involve custodian communities in their management. This would require a new legal and regulatory framework that empowers local communities to be at the forefront of decision making process related to all aspects of forest management, protection, conservation, natural regeneration and commercial exploitation. Gilgit Baltistan Forest Department has neither the capacity nor the authority to enforce proper management and governance of the natural forests. Local communities owning these forests have to be made part of the decision making processes
Summary
Private, dry temperate forests in Diamir district in Gilgit – Baltistan as per 1952 Accession Deed are the property of the local communities with technical management assigned to the Forest Department. Prior to 1988, commercial exploitation of these forests under working schemes (a sort of harvesting plan) progressed well without any massive cutting except for local bonafide uses. After 1988, sectarian conflicts in the region weakened law enforcement and governance by the line agencies including Forest Department. This together with the imposition of ban on commercial harvesting induced timber contractors to resort to massive illegal cutting in connivance with few community owners, and then manipulating its release from the Federal Government.
As climate change is unfolding severe impacts on water, agriculture, biodiversity, and the many other factors that provides a basis for people to survive in such climatically vulnerable areas, consolidated efforts are needed at local, regional and global levels to protect total disappearance of remaining forests. The first policy step at national level towards this would be to stop disposal policies of illegal timber issued by the Federal Government that have helped the forest contractors and a minor fraction of community elites to become the key drivers of massive deforestation.
Forests and biodiversity resources in Gilgit Baltistan are important natural assets of national and global significance because of species richness and their strategic location in a very unique geologic setting. This makes these areas as open biological laboratories for not only testing the impact of climate change but apply innovative global financial mechanisms like REDD, PES to generate continuous flow of global benefits and improve the socio-economic conditions of the local communities. As majority of community forest owners (95%) are not benefitting from the massive deforestation which is being pocketed by forest lessees, middlemen and government officials or goes to government exchequer, there is an apparent community readiness in some areas to forgo their demand for commercial exploitation if some compensation mechanisms like PES, REDD are introduced. Other related interventions aiming at reducing the dependence of local communities on forests include: development of alternate energy resources, income generation through skills enhancement, investment on social sectors like education, health, poverty and other local area development initiatives integrated in the overall development plan specific to these areas. However, the promotion of novel financial mechanisms like REDD, PES etc at landscape level would require capacity building of many institutions and stakeholders at the national and local levels.
References
Babar Shahbaz."Dilemmas in Participatory Forest Management in Northern Pakistan, Human Geography Series/Schriftenreihe Humangeographie, Vol.25.2009.
Government of Pakistan and IUCN, 2003. Northern Areas State of Environment and Development. IUCN Pakistan, Karachi.xlvii +301 pp
Iglesias, A., L. Erda, and C. Rosenzweig. 1996. "Climate change in Asia: A review of the vulnerability and adaptation of crop production," Water, Air, and Soil Pollution, Vol. 92, pp. 13-27.
Nasir Jamal. "Peoples' Rights Movement. Dir-Kohistan Forest Royalty issue" Sungi development Foundation, Islambad. 2005 pp 1-71.
Pakistan Forest Institute Peshawar, 2004. "National Forest and Range Resources Assessment Study (NFRRAS), 2004
Government of Pakistan, Ministry of Environment. "Rehabilitation of denuded forest areas through sowing and planting and development of farm forestry/social forestry with community participation in Northern Areas".PSDP Project, 2007.
Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD): An options Assessment Report prepared for the Government of Norway, by Meridian Institute,2009 available at http//www.REDD-OAR.org.
Sharma, Keshav P., Charles J. Vorosmarty, and Berrien Moore III. 2000. "Sensitivity of the Himalayan Hydrology to Land-Use and Climatic Changes," Climatic Change, Vol. 47, No. 1-2, October, pp. 117-139.
Siddiqui, K. M., Iqbal Mohammad, and Mohammad Ayaz. 1999. "Forest ecosystem climate change impact assessment and adaptation strategies for Pakistan," Climate Research, Vol. 12, No. 2-3, pp. 195-203.
Wescoat, Jr, James L. 1991. "Managing the Indus River basin in light of climate change: Four conceptual approaches, Global Environmental Change, Vol. 1, No. 5, December, pp. 381-395.
About the Author
Dr. Bashir Ahmed Wani
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One Women’s Experience: a Look Into Costa Rican Rejuvenation
With the powerful ride of our daily lives, sometimes creating vertigo, our search for an
emotional and physical break, and a combined rationalization to justify it, will continue to rise. Though the ride of life will continue, there are some things we can do to make it smoother from time to time.
For the past few years, I have had the assorted delight of exploits and objection of living in a
small resort town in Costa Rican, one of foreign tourism’s most sought destinations. In my
endeavors in the spa industry both here and in the US, I have found varying assumptions, real life
options, along with what works for that illusory thing we call rejuvenation.
Costa Rica, a country comparable to the size of West Virginia is, in and of itself is a Mecca
of natural wonders made for revivification. With my own inner desire to seek out some renewal for
myself, and being right here in “Mecca land” I decided to take it upon myself to find out what is out there not only for me, but for those around me who look to me for knowledge in this area.
Hundreds of auspicious companies now acknowledge the commitment needed to redirect the
unhealthy and unhappy workforce created by the demands of the job. Many are realizing that these
sedentary and high pressure positions may be causing employees a loss of physical health, leading to further preoccupations and overworked psyches. The return, high cost healthcare, and less productivity. Health oriented firms are taking advantage of this shift by craftily applying well planned, results oriented programs to increase worker productivity and reduce stress, while setting markers to measure goals and savings. Firms will work one on one with your company to implement on site healthcare facilities, work out centers, meditation rooms, weekly massage, nutrition and stress management classes, among other incentives. Giving back to the employee and acknowledging they are more than a 9 to 5. This provocation of our spiritual search and looking into our own behavioral patterns and how they lock us into our external lives is increasing. Our need to reclaim our behavior is a reason to seek places of divine retreat.
We seek rejuvenation centers for solace, to manage stress, detoxify, find alternative healthcare or for motivation for a lifestyle change, all while satisfying our craving for euphoria. What if we could bring about a radical change within ourselves, and let that ebb and flow in our daily lives. What is that worth to us?
From coastal plains to rugged mountains, and over 100 volcanic cones, several that are active, the humble country of Costa Rica depends on tourism to bring in foreign income that allows them to tackle environmental and social issues. The past year has brought that tourism, and foreign direct investment, over 480 million dollars of it. It has also brought advancement, with spas popping
up in rapid succession, and a seeming rush to beat out the next guy. According to the Coyle
Hospitality Group, a New York based market leader in quality assurance, the average person, 57% of
us in fact, have visited a resort or hotel spa 1-5 times in the past year. With spas at almost every edge of Costa Rica, from the south end of the Osa Peninsula, to the far north where you can visit a Four Seasons, I agree we will see our share of the 59% of consumers who now want more time to explore their spiritual side, according to the 2001 Leisure Travel Monitor.
R &R Resorts is the management operation of three well known and highly sought international wellness centers with spa and retreat villas. Providing the total “mind, body, spirit”
connection before it was trendy to include this slogan on every youngling spa brochure. One of their three facilities, aptly named Pura Vida, or Pure Life, a national anthem and frequent greeting for the Costa Rican People, symbolizing to take it easy and enjoy life. In other words most things can wait until tomorrow, not a mentality easily ingrained into our work harder, get more,
puritan roots.
I decided it was time to take advantage of my location and experience this for myself. As I passed through a small country town, they call Cerrysel, I am amazed at how much of this small country still remains for me to see. High green mountains, surrounded by coffee fields,
and winding small roads that lead to a remote hilltop location, needing a little navigation, almost as if you need an exclusive password for the privilege of the location. A seeming world away from my four hour drive from the coast, with fog misted mountains and a quiet calm, I looked forward to sharing with the staff. Having previously arranged a meeting with the general manager and marketing coordinator, I knew I only had the day to enjoy this getaway, because of my schedule.
Promising myself I would make a return visit for the much talked about week of transformation.
Upon my arrival I was greeted with a warm welcome by Manrique Gomez, the GM here for the past
three years with 20 years of management experience. I was immediately taken through the grounds, as we discussed the types of accommodations, classes, treatments and pricing they have to offer.
The walk was colder than I am used to, quiet, with only the wind moving the palm and almond trees
with a perpetual breeze, and a refreshing clear view of the valley and surrounding hills. With a
review of the 22,000 square meter grounds, of comfortable sturdy “toldos” or tents, and pagoda
style villas, 53 in all, I was invited to lunch. In the Garden Restaurant a cozy cafeteria style center, I sat down with some very sincere and enthusiastic staff. More rightly referred to as part of the community, at least that is how they like to view themselves. I was pleased to find some of my favorite combinations, tofu dishes, lots of fresh vegetables, cheeses, fruit juice and salad. A light healthy fare, that blends well with a weeks retreat of healing therapies from Bioenergetics, Watsu, Inner Guidance, Thai, Reflexology, Reflective time and all other customary treatments you may think of.
Everyone I spoke with was honest and open, not at all excessively protective of their
proprietary works as some who shrink from the interest of other trade professionals. Proud of their success and innovative programs they were happy to share. With members of the “community”
from Israel, Australia, USA, Germany, Britain, and of course Costa Rica, they have no shortage of
people who seek a chance to live and work here. Isvari, a Sanskrit word for the feminine of God, is the name the resident yoga instructor takes. Trained in Kripalu, Holistic Nutrition, Danskinetics, and Iyengar theories, she brings an open minded vision to her teaching. When I asked another member, what she enjoyed most here, the response was “touching hearts”, which is what she sees in the responsive and physical difference in her clients, at weeks end. Trained in Israel, Switzerland, and India, she has a friendly face, wide, clear eyes, and a true dedication to her work. Management, instructors, therapists, enthusiasts, solace seekers, and Pura Vida regulars all eat, live, practice, and
heal together.
Built on an old coffee farm, significantly more developed than when it was purchased 20
years ago by the founding couple of R & R Resorts, Pauline and Michael Klegg.
Now a prosperous company, it is comprehensibly managed by a couple of “corporate refugees”,
Rakesh and LuAnn. Based in Dahlonega, Georgia, near the Pura Vida USA wellness center, they
travel monthly to their sister properties in Tulum, Mexico, and Alejuela, Costa Rica. Rakesh, a former corporate financier, and LuAnn a lawyer by training, make for a well designed management
team. For two and a half years they have been behind the properties and programs you can find
available. In speaking with the management team I was able to relate to the dedication and skill it
takes to keep these wellness centers going. With my own recent work in boutique, and resort spa
start up on the Pacific Coast, I’d had my days of rewards and set-backs. The couple, having visited
the Costa Rican property three years ago on vacation, decided to modify their lives and upon their return, applied with R& R Resorts, later finding themselves heading up the project. Attracted to the wellness industry by a desire to do something more thrilling than the routine corporate world, and I’m guessing a little healthy self-interest to do something for themselves, they took it on with enthusiasm. With no misconceptions about the industry, they admit, it is just as hard, if not more, to manage these properties, as it was in high demand jobs. Travel is frequent and quality checks are consistent, along with ensuring that each property reflects and represents what they advertise, and is homogenous with the whole body connection put into place at the original MayaTulum property 20 years ago. The founding couple had some healthy discernment in bringing together yoga, and spa awareness when it was not mainstream, an became an inspiration to others.
LuAnn tells me there are no immediate plans for expansion on the Costa Rica property, but
that they are always looking to improve the look and “deepen their offerings” to the guests, and
leave them with something to take home. As we all know, our guests can be the greatest reward, and
the greatest challenge, all at the same time. The reason they always look for staff with the ability to deal with the public, and amongst it all, smile! A pre-requisite to be a staff member, I am told, is quality training, knowledge, and of course the right attitude. As I’ve heard throughout my career from therapist, to manager, through development and consulting, people can be trained, but if they are inherently unhappy, that will reflect in their work.
It must be working, as LuAnn informs me they consistently receive compliments from
clients around the world on the positive fulfillment of expectation and forceful energy of Pura Vida retreats. From experience I know how hard it can be to execute countless biddings, the feeling to out perform, and surpass your guests expectations. In this aspect LuAnn put it so objectively, “Some may have better rooms than us, others may have better treatments, but it is what we put into it, and the service and caring that our clients receive that make it an experience to remember.”
This is the attitude that has made this one of the most popular destination locations in Central
America, and the management awareness is key.
With the average vacation being 10-14 days out of 365, some of us, myself included prefer a new experience during our time away, where our personal needs will be addressed,
and you can really take some, YOU time. Sometimes that takes seclusion, and lifestyle change,
which is part of what Pura Vida does in taking pride in raising a level of consciousness for their clients, and creating a safe space for transformation to happen. Where as one staff member put it, “giving them time to return to the beautiful person they have forgotten they are”
LuAnn maintains a belief that nature has a way of healing us, if that is the case, then this is
a perfect tropical location to begin your renewal. Not only a popular spa with 9 mountain view
rooms dedicated to treatments and a private Watsu pool. Their wellness center can also be reserved
for yoga teacher trainings, therapist CEU’s, and seminars for all types and levels of the trade.
Destination spas are one of the things people think of when looking for a much needed
escape and to allow our overworked minds to be swept away, to contemplate a recent change, a
divorce, work, or life. Each of us will look to have a different expectation filled, seeking our own path, transcending age, health and circumstance. We all need, and deserve to function at our best physiologically and emotionally. Personally I look forward to taking them up on an invitation to return and participate in their wellness program and trying out the ‘Unwrap Journey Paradise” package , floating from massage to wrap to detox steam and facial. Exploring the boundries of my yoga stretches, and taking some time for introspection of my own to re-direct some goals that may have slipped off track.
Costa Rica can be a place where your daily rejuvenation rituals and healthy habits may be
challenged, you certainly will be hard pressed to find a turkey burger or raw foods juice bar,
especially disadvantageous to those of us living day to day lives here. Whether we are traveling or a long term guest in a foreign location, our well being is within our reach. Inside the borders of this little country I currently call home, I now have one more channel to access in my personal search for the sometimes misleading or unbridled spirit. Rejuvenation is deeply personal to each of
us, as we create our rituals to get through the day, deep breaths when needed, a private minute for a mantra, or scanning trade and travel magazines for the next get away. We find our way.
I look up as I am writing this, into a tranquil ocean cove, a friends’ sloop moored below, the
sun is setting, soon I will see the capricious pattern of shades on the horizon, a bird swoops
in to pick up a wandering gecko, and I move to the sounds of distant titi monkeys, and a subtle
background beat of a locally bought c.d., ‘Sounds of the Coffee Lands’. An echo of breaking surf
moves up the hill, like a chant, a sound that has always been my soul rejuvenation, that wraps me in
contentment. I guess this is the beginnings of my dream, my chance to re-invent myself and
capture the empowerment to appreciate it, and what enables me to provide a center of renewal
for myself and those around me. So my daily ride, once a roller coaster has slowed to a tranquil
merry go round, with an exceptional view… at least for the time being. After all I am working the controls.
About the Author
Lotus Effects LLC, Spa College, and Lucid Learning were founded by Liz Galloway, professional wellness consultant, speaker and spa industry trainer. With location and teams in both the US and Costa Rica she continues to provide precision business and mentoring for spa start up's and turn arounds, while bringing new levels of patent pending training options to the healing arts industry.
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Solar panels, Electrical or Gas? What brand do you think is the best model? Volume= 80, 000 lts.
Solar is always going to be safest, in terms of possible fire or shock.Depending on where you live though, it may not be efficient as a primary heat source. For example, here in Ontario, most will use it as supplemental heat during the summer season only. It's pretty useless during spring and fall. It's a passive source, so the only cost after initial installation is powering the control box, which is minimal. Enersol is my favorite in this category. Parts are easy to get in all of North America, the material is durable and a good install makes winterizing easy. The unit is geared towards a consumer installation and comes with easy to understand documentation. They also include the automatic control valve made by Jandy. In my opinion, one of the best automatic valves in existence. Gas delivers more BTU per buck and is a quick way of heating a pool from scratch or maintaining heat during spring and fall. But, there's also a risk of fire or explosion, however slight. In 15 years I've only seen 2 Cabana fires directly related to a gas heater and these were ultimately the home owner's fault by placing combustible material on top of the heater and by doing their own gas hook up. For that size pool you're looking at a 250,000 BTU heater. Hayward, Ray Pak and Teledyne Laars all make reliable gas heaters that are high efficiency. Personally, steer clear of the Pent Airs heaters if it's offered. Nothing but trouble with heat fusible links, poor pilot checking design and doors that are just a pain to open. Electric, well, it's expensive to run. Watching the hydro meter when it's on will make you dizzy. For that size pool, you're looking at a 50 kW heater. I've never heard of anyone getting zapped by one, but it's always possible with a bad installation. No favorite here, they're all pretty much the same.
Homemade Swimming Pool Solar Heating System
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[simpleaffiliate source="chitika" results="0"][/simpleaffiliate] Going solar: please share your experiences! Like to install solar HWS, heating etc. Live in Victoria Australia?
We're about to move to a 5 acre bush block outside Daylesford. The house is rendered brick double storey. It has an electric HWS and wood heater. We'd like to install solar panels on the roof to power everything but cannot afford this at all now. We thought we could start off with a solar combined hydronic heating and HWS but don't know much about it. If anyone has experiences with this, or in general about solar power it would really help us decide the best way to make our new home more sustainable. Thanks for any help offered!
Solar Hot Water would be worth having (and not too expensive), solar panels probably aren't worth it.
You should ignore those who suggest paying extra for electricity from the grid as that is pretty much just a fraud (it has been known to sell more power from 'renewables' than was actually generated) leaving aside the whole problem of wind not being able to actually replace coal.
Installing Solar Power Technology for Your Home
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By Jahangir Alam Akash: Graz, was once the cultural city of Austria. It is in Europe. In 2003, European Community (EEC) had declared it so. After the capital, Vienna, it is the second biggest city. It is just like a scenic playground of natural beauty with green woods and hills. It is also a ‘world heritage' declared by UNESCO. The fascinated place of this city is Schlossberg. This is a hill. The Clock tower or ‘Uhrturm' on this hill is the main attraction of Graz. There is an old house besides the clock in beautiful and solitary environment. This house is named ‘Chrrinni Schlossel' where the invited authors of ‘International Haus Der Autoren Graz (IHAG)' live now. It is built in 1820. It is a cultural network project operated by Kulturvermittlung Steiermark (a region of Austria). IHAG has given me an opportunity for living one year with my family. Before I came here, I ived in Germany as a guest of Hamburg Foundation which organizes shelter and treatments for the politically tortured person. This stay was ended in may, 2009. As I can't go back to my country because of uncertain situations, I was to finish my German-living and came in this beautiful city in Austria. The historical City of Graz is full of arts and culture. The people of various languages and culture live here. Graz is renowned as the multicultural and for different educational institutions. In Germany I used to live in a bigger house in Hamburg than to the accommodation here in Graz. Though the house is small, it is in a very peaceful environment. Besides, this house is also historical. Living on a hill is a special opportunity to enjoy the nature. There is no sound of vehicles and other usual noises of a city nearby. Specially, after dusk there comes a total silence, just like a grave! In fact, it is a right and beautiful place for poets, authors, and artists. We can see the total Graz-city from our house. The sunlight can easily enter into the room through the window-glass. We wake up in the morning in the soft light of the dawn. We can see Moon-light at night from our bed. The drops of rain enter into the room through the open window even during a little rainfall. We can see from the room the various formations of clouds. Sometimes we can hear the loud sound of thunder. The house has also a charming flower garden. There is a beautiful garden of grapes at the main door of ‘Cherrini Schloss'. The sweet grapes are within the reach of the hand. There is a thick forest beside the house. In the forest many kinds of unknown birds play with the wild cats and in the trees. As it is the famous tourist spot, thousands of people gather here everyday. The most beautiful corners of the city can be seen from the Clock tower. Our homesickness is low after we see these. The natural environment of this place always keeps us delighted. We have passed about two months in Graz, a place of natural beauty. On July 19, 2010 from, I received a mail from Luise Grinschgl. She is a worker of Kulturvermittlung Steiermark. She informed me tells me that a cultural organization has organized a `Mountain Program'. Are we interested (my family) to take part in this program? I thought, we have not yet walked up the mountain. There is a big similarity between the valleys and the nature around. The nature-lovers join such kind of programs. I have never taken part in this type of program in my life. However, I agreed to take part my wife and child. So I sent my ok to her. Luise informed me the program-organizer would send me detail information. The Organizer of the Mountain program is ‘Der grazer Kunstverein'. Luise Kloos, the Director of this Organization phoned me. She informed me about the program. A group of artists from many countries would take part in this program. I am included an author in the group and is to be ‘Seetaler Alpen' from July 26 to 30. I , my wife Farhana and son, Fiman have started to join the Mountain program on 26 july from the ‘Cherrini Slooss'. From the Tram-station, Luise Kloos has taken us in car to Luise's house. Andriz and other six fine artists from Croatia and Britain were present there. The Croatians were Nica, Josef, Martina and British were Nancy, Tim and Rawley. We took tea and started for „Seetaler Alpen" at 6.15pm. Under the leadership of Luis close the number participants were ten including my child Fiman. Three cars began to run fast. We were Luise's car. Luise has drives car very carefully and heartily. Nica and Josef have followed her. Green forests were in both the sides of the road. Something in distance, we have visualized as a fort. . We reached at ‘Huette (Hut)'. It was the place of our residence, a small cottage, made of wood. Such kinds of cottages are generally made for the Summer season. From outside it seemed, it was not possible to sleep nine adult persons in this small cottage. After the entry, my doubt was gone. There was a big bed room in the first floor of the two storied cottage. Toilet-bathroom, kitchen and dining room were all attached to this cottage. There were also some small bed room up stare. The cottage was in the inner part of the valleys. The weather was very cold. But a fine hitting system was there. We have gathered there, the people of different culture and environment from Austria, Britain, Croatia and Bangladesh. We were to sleep in the first floor of the cottage and for others were is in the upper floor. Next day at 11.30 am we had our breakfast and started for rising the mountain. I walked with my son Fiman on my shoulder. There were green jungle and different kinds of trees. The cattle were grazing on the green field. The rings around the shoulders of the animals rang with their movements. There were crowds of nature-lovers on the sides of the road. There were heaps of earth, stones and the fountain here and there. Farhana felt pain to walk. But Martina accompanied and encouraged her. We crossed the path in two hours amidst many calamities. After that we had a short interval. There was a small Bar named "Hothaidenhuette".We had our lunch there. The Bar worker Cristina served us drinks according to our liking. After lunch we could gather some energy again. The struggle for rising the highest part of the mountain began again. The goal was to rise up at"Zirbitzkogel". After walking half an hour from Hothaidenhuette, Luise told me that Farhana could not go further with us up to the apex. She was tired with pains in her feet. We have decided that Farhana would have to go back to the cottage. After that Farhana, Fiman and some others returned to cottage. Luise. Nika and I began to rise up to "Zirbitzkogel". The apex is 2394 meter from the plane. We were walking through rough path. I became enchanted seeing the natural beauty. Sometimes I felt an urge to take photographs and also to take moving pictures in video. I had no experience of climbing a mountain. Naturally I was left behind. At a time Nika and Luise went far beyond my eyes. Then I became anxious. I thought that the desire of my climbing in the mountain would not be fulfilled. But I began walking to reach the apex of „Zirbitzkogel". Sometimes it seemed to me that the joints of my knee would be broken. I felt pain in my shoulder and legs. My lips became fractured for the cold wind. I felt thirsty. But I did not lose courage and mental strength. Lastly I reached at "Zirbitzkogel" at 4.30 pm. I could touch cloud with my hand. I got the chance to enjoy the natural beauties from there. My mind was filled up with peace observing the scenery. There was a small bar at "Zirbitzkogel". The bar was operated by the aged pair, Frang and Malita. I drank my favorite Bier. Franz told me that near about two thousand people used to gather here in a week. That day, July 27, till 16.30 pm there were about three hundred people did arrive here. Franz and Malita had to climb up the mountain two hundred times a year to maintain the bar! In summer, every where in the valleys are dark green. The overlapping of the clouds and the valleys make a wonderful scene. In winter everything in the valleys become white with snow and ice. The scenes of the valleys attract the nature-loving people. Now, the time was to return from „Zirbitzkogel". We took a new path. Luise kloos found the more attractive way to return to the cottage. From the apex, strait below, there were beautiful lake and fountain. But I could not move my legs. Before going down to the lake, I took a little rest sitting in the green woods. Then we started walking, it had no end! Around us there were forests, jungle, grass, flowers and fountains. A blowing breeze was created on the confrontations of the heads of the long trees of the big thick forest. They were hit by the air. Sometimes I heard chirping of various kind of birds. The scene of the sun set, the sound of water flowing from the fountain, had an immense attraction. The nature and the animals surroundings received us with plenty of love. Luise and Nika again went far away. I could not see them. I was alone on the way. There was no sign of life! Darkness was coming near. Big forests were on the both side of the path. I became very frightened. I was walking with being afraid. But the path seemed to be much longer! Sometimes birds chirped. Then I got my courage back. At last Huette came in the front. I was out of fear and hesitation. I reached at the cottage at 7.45pm. About one hour before, Luise and Nika came back. At the cottage I felt a big pain my body. It was my first such experience. Kind e Martina gave me pain killer tablet. In the deep sleep, I could not realize when the sun rose in the next morning. For some reasons, we were late to go out on July 28. We were all tired. After breakfast, our team was divided into two groups. Josef, Tim and Nika were in one group. Luise, Martina, Nancy, Rolley and I were in another. But Farhana and Fiman stayed in the cottage. Walking with Fiman was very difficult. That day's program was to visit the lake near Naturfreundes Haus. We finished our lunch at "Hothaidenhuette". We reached at „Naturfreundes Haus" after walking a long time through the forest. There was a beautiful lake beside Naturfreundes Haus. We started to see it the second lake after drinks. It was more beautiful. We all bathed there in cold water. From Naturfreundes Haus, we returned to the cottage by car. We went to visit Benediktinerstift St. Lambrecht Museum on July 29. The weather was bad. It was not possible to go anywhere. The Museum Officer Mr. P. Gerwig Romirer showed us the whole museum. There were many significant articles of arts and culture in the museum. We finished our lunch at the park near the Museum. It had been raining heavily. As a result we were bound to back to "Huette". We driank bear at the "Huette" bar. Young Cloudia, the worker of the bar told me that about 200 people come here to drink and had their meals everyday. There were 14 rooms for the tourists. All the rooms are booked at the weekend. Additional rooms are needed for some weekend. Luise Kloos had taken foods and drinks with him for a week. Everyday many people gathered there and took part in lovely gossipings. Cooking for night meal were done as in a picnic. One evening Luise prepared special and tasty item of foods and also did the same in another evening. Rolley, Tim, Nancy, and Farhana helped Luise in cooking. A function of songs was arranged one night after dinner. Nancy sang English song and Farhana Bangla folk. The function was a total success! July 30 the last day of climbing on the mountain, we got out of the cottage by car. Then we went to Naturefreundes Haus. Farhana and Fiman remained there, because, they were sleeping. We others went to visit the third lake. As we rose up the mountain, the clouds touched our bodies. Form that peak down to the ground, we found a big lake. Truly, this lake was divine-beautiful. The great mixture of chanting lake with clouds, valleys attracts any person who would be there! There were indications on the trees, in the forests and in the valleys, shadows of living beings! Here none should be loud. It is forbidden. The animals could be afraid of. The path was marked by the rings on the trees.. They are for the tourists and the nature-lovers so that they do not lose their ways. Next day July 31, we have visited Kunst House in the island of Graz city. With this sight-seeing, we have finished our tour. This mountain Program will be a living memory in my life. Thanks a lot to Luise Grinschgl and Luise Kloos.
About the Author
For the last two decades Jahangir Alam Akash has been writing intensively and courageously on the matters of Islamic Militancy, murders extra judiciary, state-persecution, tortures on religious minority and indigenous people, corruption, political terror, the women-mishandlings and last not the least for the common and helpless people who suffer without rights and justice. As a School boy he has entered the domain of journalism due to his conscious realisations of the superstitions of the society, corruption, injustice, lawlessness and affliction of strong over weak. His mission is to attract the attention of social and governmental machineries for the healing of these humiliations. Taking enormous risks for his own life he is advancing onwards with the strong belief to establish democracy, peace, human-rights, equality, and fraternity and for a secular society. Akash is strong in mind for an independent people's media: Owing to this he has become victim of harassments and tortures many times by the state, Islamic militarism, independence-opposing circle, opportunist political groups and corrupt-gangs. Attempts were made to stop him through cases, physical attacks and Threats. On professional causes, with fictitious political and exasperated charges he was imprisoned two times so far. But he could not be tamed. He is writing till now as before. He was born in far north nof Bangladesh where Himalaya begins. His birth place is village: Shatkhamar, under Balarampur Union of Atoari Upozila within Panchagharh District. His parents are father, Safiuddin Ahmed and mother, late Sahida Khatun. They are 5 brothers and 3 sisters. His number is 7. Journalism is his profession and addiction! He has passed the Bachelor of Arts (B.A. honours) and Master of Arts (M.A.) in Philosophy from Rajshahi University. From the same University he obtained the degree of post-graduation in civic-journalism. He worked for the Foreign Service German Radio (Deutsche Welle, as a freelancer) in Bengali section, in CSB, the first 24 hours TV-Channel of Bangladesh. He took also the special trainings on TV and Radio and Newspaper-journalism from the Bangladresh Centre for Development Journalism Communication (BCDJC). His many works on Human rights were much praised. He attended various workshops of Asian Human Rights Commission, ‘Odhikar' (Rights), Bangladesh Manabodhikar Bastabayan Shangstha (Bangladesh Human Rights Materialisation Organisation) and Bangladesh Rehabilitation Centre for Trauma-victims like different Human rights groups. Presently he is editing the Bengali newspaper on press freedom and human rights 'Euro Bangla' in Online. The spectral of his works: Dainik Sangbad, Dainik Bangla, Dainik Banglar Bani, Dainik Ajker Kagoj (4 Bengali dailies in Bangladesh), Radio German Deutsche Welle, The new Nation, The Newsday, The Morning Sun (3 English dailies in Bangladesh), Ekushey TV, CSB News (2 TV-Channels). He was also attached with Associated Press of Bangladesh, the Editor online Newspaper, Daily Testa, Daily Uttar Bangla (Daily Newspapers) and many other News media's. From 2004 to 2008, he worked as Free-lance journalist of German Radio Deutsche Welle from the Rajshahi Area of Bangladesh. He was the first journalist who first covered the activities of Islamic Militants and ‚murders without trials' in Bangladesh and drew the attentions of national and international media. On these grounds he became the target of State and Militancy. He got the ‚International Human rights-day prize of 2008' sponsored by the the private organisation, Christian Development Alternative as a recognition of his courageous journalism and his special contributions towards the human rights. His research against the Islamic-Militants and fearless journalism, he got the ‘Nongor Shahitya Puroshkar (Anchor-Literary Award)' in 2005. Besides, the European branch of Hindu-Buddhist-Christian Unity Committee has given him the 2010 Human rights award as recognition to his investigating journalism on the minority-oppression in Bangladesh. His Bengali books are: ‘Andhokare 15 Ghanta (15 hours in total darkness)', ‘Bichar Bohirbhuto Hattyakando ebong Pritihingsha (Extra judicial killings and revenge)', ‘Jongi Godfather o Annanya Prooshongo, (Militant Godfathers and other Issues)', ‘Udichi Theke Pilkhana (From Udichi to Pilkhana)'. His English books are 'Struggle for Peace' and 'Away from Home'. During the past interim-Government of Bangladesh an unusual Rule of Emergency went on. He became then a combined victim of the Rapid Action Battelion (RAB), Army and a vicious politically influential circle. He was arrested unlawfully and put to inhuman tortures. In the Rajshahi Central Jail he passed 28 dark-days. After release, facing incessant threats to his life, he was forced to leave the country. As a politically oppressed journalist, he has lived in one year in Germany. Now he is living in Austria through a programm under 'Writer in exile' with his family. He was a member of Rajshahi University Press Club, the elected General Secretary of Rajshahi Journalist Union and also an executive member of Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ)' Association, the highest organ of Journalists. Apart from this, he was the Publicity Secretary of Rajshahi District Udichi, the forerunner cultural Association of Bangladesh. He has travelled to Germany, Switzerland, Netherlands, Austria, Denmark, Sweden, Italy, India and Hong Kong.
Winona LaDuke - Building a Green Economy
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