Send2Press Newswire

Environmentally Minded Developer Appointed to Oversight Board of Controversial Landfill

Mon, 02 Jun 2008 19:58:49 GMT

LOS ANGELES, Calif., June 2 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Los Angeles business leader and environmental sustainability advocate David S. Honda has been appointed to the Sunshine Canyon Landfill Local Enforcement Agency (SCL-LEA). SCL-LEA is a recently created joint powers authority (JPA) formed in part to adjudicate operating issues surrounding the controversial urban landfill at Sunshine Canyon as they arise, while overseeing ongoing permit applications by owner-operator Browning Ferris Industries. Sunshine Canyon straddles a northern boundary of the City of Los Angeles and an unincorporated portion of Los Angeles County.

As SCL-LEA moves through the certification process and defines its enforcement methods, municipalities and state governments across the U.S. are watching closely. Sunshine Canyon Landfill Local Enforcement Agency may serve as a national model for similar JPAs in communities struggling with the complex issue of waste management.

Mr. Honda was appointed by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, and will serve the interests of the people of the County of Los Angeles.

"I am humbled by the trust and faith the Board of Supervisors have vested in me in regard to Sunshine Canyon," Honda said. "And I'm especially grateful to Supervisors (Mike) Antonovich and (Zev) Yaroslovsky for the opportunity to serve my fellow citizens of Los Angeles in this critical capacity."

Mr. Honda says his goal as a member of the local enforcement agency is to bring 21st-Century ideas to the landfill in order to make it an energy asset, and "more than just a dump." His ideas for the future of Sunshine Canyon Landfill range from introducing revolutionary methods of carbon sequestration, to refuse-decomposition-based energy production.

"We also need to ensure and enhance the integrity of the innovative double-liner at the landfill, which residential neighbors fought so hard to win," Honda added. "The landfill must not contaminate the water table beneath it."

David Honda is a resident of the City of Los Angeles, living in the neighborhood community of Northridge. He is president of D.S. Honda Construction and D.S. Honda International, LLC.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Sunshine Canyon Landfill Local Enforcement Agency, environmental sustainability advocate

Episcopal Diocese Considers Selling Camp - Preservation Group Alarmed

Wed, 28 May 2008 19:19:22 GMT

APPLETON, Wis., May 28 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- According to a preservation group called PreserveCW, the Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee, unless convinced otherwise, may sell an ecologically diverse camp property in Waushara County to commercial developers. Consideration of a sale has begun just five months after ceasing operation of Camp Webb at the Wautoma, Wisconsin property. Camp Webb had been a religiously-based camping program there since 1961. The camp property of 135 acres contains a diverse mixture of deciduous woods, pine woods, beachfront, swampland, grasslands and prairie fields.

The diocese's Executive Council discussed the possibility of sale in early May after receiving a report from diocesan officials who had met with a commercial developer to discuss potential development of condominiums. A formal vote to put the camp up for sale is the first agenda item for June 5th Executive Council meeting. After learning of the situation, PreserveCW, a group formed to preserve the camp, asked supporters to contact Bishop Steven Miller and Executive Council members to ask that they seriously consider non-commercial options for the camp before considering sale to commercial interests.

"We don't question any right of the Diocese to sell the camp" stated Matthew Payne, Chair of the PreserveCW Steering Committee and former Camp Webb board member, staff member and camper. "Our concern is the Diocese's fiduciary duty, especially as a church and not-for-profit corporation in the State of Wisconsin. To consider sale to commercial interests before giving due consideration to non-commercial options is both irresponsible and careless and may have possible legal ramifications. Until and unless the Diocese of Milwaukee has exhausted all avenues of non-commercial options, it should not consider sale of the camp to any commercial interest."

Steering Committee member Connie Ott who has been connected to the camp since 1966 is also a current member of the Executive Council. She noted that, "This ecologically sensitive land should be preserved for generations to come. Any hope for preservation would be destroyed by a sale to any commercial interest."

PreserveCW was also recently informed that a proposal it made to lease the property to resume camp operations was rejected categorically by the Diocese. In a letter dated May 14th, the Diocese provided the reason that it did not consider it in their best interest to lease to "any other group or organization."

For more information or to request an interview, contact Matthew Payne at (920) 279-6267. Also visit www.preservecw.org.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, PreserveCW preserve Camp Webb, Episcopal Diocese of Milwaukee

Visionsoft Improves Carbon Footprint and Saves Businesses Money

Wed, 02 Apr 2008 13:45:32 GMT

MOUNTAIN LAKES, N.J., April 2 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Soaring gas prices, a looming recession, and higher energy bills all add more pressure to businesses to effectively make money. However, Visionsoft is doing their part to help these businesses to save energy while positively affecting their bottom line.

Many companies have good intentions when it comes to energy saving and reducing their carbon footprint, but often there's a reluctance to invest in technology that is simply for green purposes. That's why Visionsoft have slashed their Site License price from $1,000 to $199 for their PowerOut software.

PowerOut puts the control into the hand of the business owner, not the electric company. It allows businesses to set a time of day that they want all their unused PCs to safely and automatically shut down. Without such a service, energy is needlessly being wasted and does not make sense from an environmental or fiscal perceptive.

Why waste energy and money on powering unused PCs throughout the night and weekends?

Managing Director and CEO for Visionsoft, Richard Ward, explains that, "The good news is that companies deploying PowerOut not only save up to $150 for every PC that regularly gets left on, but they also inherit all their green credentials at the same time."

60 percent of users never switch off their PCs. So, apart from a massive reduction in carbon, PowerOut also saves companies a fortune. On average, the savings can represent a large part of a firm's overall energy bill.

"In fact," Ward says, "the only way a company won't save money is if their PCs don't run on electricity."

PowerOut has a host of energy-saving features built in and essential PCs like servers can easily be excluded from the energy-saving deployment. Normally, an efficient energy policy is in place within just minutes.

Established in 1989, Visionsoft is a privately-owned company with a wealth of experience in providing essential audit and PC management software.

To learn more about PowerOut and how it can save businesses money while improving their carbon footprint, visit: www.visionsoft.com/save.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Visionsoft PowerOut software, reduce business carbon footprint

Pledge to Tote Green on Earth Day

Tue, 25 Mar 2008 07:42:52 GMT

The Beleaf Tote ... the First in a Line of Organic and Recyclable Fabrics Stitched with Purpose(TM) - One Percent of Sales Donated to 1% For The Planet

MANASQUAN, N.J., March 25 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- It may not be fashionable to be seen sporting paper or plastic, but making a statement with ecofashion is in. Americans throw away 100 billion plastic bags a year, recycling less than one percent of them, according to the Worldwatch Institute, an environmental research and advocacy group in Washington. Perfect for Earth Day and beyond, the new Beleaf tote solves the paper or plastic dilemma and makes it easy for earth-savvy shoppers to take a plastic bag out of circulation and promote the reduction of deforestation. Plus, one percent of all sales are donated to the non-profit organization, 1% For The Planet.

Made with 100 percent organic cotton and imprinted with water-based inks, the oversized tote was designed to promote sustainability. The bag was designed by Beleaf's creative director, Keith Rizzi, who also heads up Rizco Design, an award-winning, green design firm located in Manasquan, New Jersey. Beleaf is earth-friendly fashion that is Stitched with Purpose(TM). "The bag was designed to encourage everyday people to make one simple change that can make a difference," says Keith Rizzi. "Helping to reduce the number of biodegradable-resistant plastic bags is something we all can do to benefit Earth."

Proceeds from the sale of Beleaf are being donated to the non-profit organization 1% For The Planet. Founded in 2001, 1% For The Planet is an alliance of companies that recognize the true cost of doing business and donate one percent of their sales to environmental organizations worldwide. Beleaf's annual donations are directed to the Consolidated Graphics Division of American Forests(R) which focuses on reducing deforestation caused by the design and printing industry due to increased paper consumption.

The bag features the Beleaf logo, along with a free-flowing design of a butterfly pattern made from repeated Beleaf logos. The butterflies communicate evolution and a sense of change. Additionally, the colors of a butterfly's wings are made to match their surroundings because the environment naturally provides its inhabitants with protection, as well as nourishment and sustainability. That is the premise behind Beleaf: in order to achieve balance, and ensure the planet's future, we must do the same for our environment.

The Beleaf tote retails for $36 and is available at www.beleaf.com. It is the first item launched from the collection. Additional pieces will be introduced by late 2008.

About Beleaf
Launched in 2007, Beleaf is a relaxed, urban clothing collection comprised of high quality organic and recyclable fabrics that combine energetic design and sophisticated detail that embody green learnings, which are shared to show how small changes make a big impact. The first accessory introduced from the collection is the reusable tote. One percent of the sales of Beleaf will be donated to 1% For The Planet.

For more information, visit www.beleaf.com.

All trademarks acknowledged.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Beleaf organic cotton tote, One Percent For The Planet

Executive Recycling Has the Solution for 250 Million Analog TVs Soon to Be Obsolete

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 09:20:49 GMT

DENVER, Colo., March 24 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Executive Recycling, Inc., facing the challenge of a glut of TVs soon to be on the market, announces that they are ready for action. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) recently mandated that all TV transmission be digital by February 19, 2009 - so what's the problem? The problem is that there are approximately 250 million analog TVs in the U.S. that are not equipped for digital. People can choose to purchase converters, or toss out their old TVs, but how can they do this safely?

According to the team at Executive Recycling, the materials used in TVs are very toxic.

"Toxic materials include lead, cadmium, and mercury," Tor Olson, the company's director, said. "If not properly recycled, these items can lead to air and ground contamination."

Executive Recycling has put a plan in place to help people dispose of useless TVs in an environmentally safe manner. They have planned 21 recycling drop-off events for 2008 that will allow the public to bring in their old TVs, and other electronic devices.

To meet this challenge head on, the company has purchased a CRT glass-cutting machine, allowing for glass-to-glass recycling. They hope to have the equipment up and running within the next month; the machine is capable of processing 30-40 CRT tubes per hour.

The glass will be separated into two parts: funnel glass which contains the leaded glass; and the panel glass which contains no lead. This material will then be cleaned and processed and sent off to a CRT manufacturer to be used in the production of new CRT tubes for TVs and monitors.

Recycling electronics is a complex process and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has fines in place for improper disposal. Executive Recycling helps to protect people and companies from liability issues while protecting the environment at the same time.

Executive Recycling, Inc., based in Englewood, Colorado, combines over 20 years of IT experience, extensive knowledge of current EPA requirements, and a dedication to world-class service.

For more information, visit: www.ExecutiveRecycle.com.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, analog TV recycling Denver, Executive Recycling Inc

F and M Tool and Plastics Announces Opening of Smartware Products Division

Tue, 18 Mar 2008 11:09:15 GMT

FRESNO, Calif., March 18 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- F & M Tool and Plastics Inc., in Leominster Mass., a molding firm specializing in manufacturing eco friendly products, has announced the opening of Smartware Products, a division of F & M Tool and Plastics, a sales and distribution center in the Central Valley of California.

Smartware Products is a resourceful GREEN solutions company that produces and distributes American made pots, whiskey barrels and landscape timbers, along with a vast line of products that carry a minimum 20 year warranty.

"It is our job and our duty to recycle post consumer products to help the planet," said Chris Dondero. "And we recognize California's commitment to 'green' products."

Chris Dondero has been appointed West Coast Division Sales Manager and Terry Dondero, Director of Product Development.

Local offices can be reached at: 516 Villa Avenue, Ste. 28 Clovis, Calif. Telephone Number: 1-(559)-324-0300.

More information: www.smartwareproducts.com.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Smartware Products California, Recycled products green manufacturers

AERC Bolsters Com-Cycle's 'HIPAA Data Compliance' Services with Key Acquisition

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 12:47:59 GMT

FLANDERS, N.J., Feb. 26 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- AERC.com, Inc., the nation's leading full-service secure data management and recycling company, announces the expansion of its secure data destruction and disposal operations as a result of assets acquired Monday, January 7, from DynTek, a leading technology services provider.

The acquisition, which includes proprietary secure asset management software and related intellectual property, is part of an aggressive investment strategy that will allow Com-Cycle, AERC's wholly owned subsidiary and its electronics recycling business unit, to focus on rising data security and recycling concerns in industries such as health care. Improper management of medical records and hazardous materials holds serious legal and ethical implications, resulting in severe fines and penalties.

"This new acquisition greatly enhances both the technical capabilities and service offering of Com-Cycle," said Peter J. Jegou, Chief Executive Officer of AERC and Com-Cycle. "The investment not only strengthens our ability to meet these escalating security threats in health care and other sectors, but it provides a secure audit trail for compliance with HIPAA and similar regulations."

Lindsay Landmesser, Vice President of Sales, added, "In industries such as health care, confidentiality and privacy are at stake. Protecting the confidential records of these companies - and their patients and customers - is of utmost importance. The new software program and end-of-market asset management software offer new options for research centers, medical centers, hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, patient service centers, and health care clinics with concerns about data security and waste hazard risks."

Com-Cycle offers compliance with federal, state, and local regulations through an array of services built on a take-everything policy. "The Zero-Waste-to-Landfill Policy, when combined with our regulatory compliance, expert consulting, and investment in technology, is an important market differentiator," noted Ms. Landmesser.

About AERC / Com-Cycle

Com-Cycle, a wholly owned subsidiary of AERC Recycling Solutions, has become an industry leader through partnerships with clients by providing unmatched convenience, compliance, and consulting to handle unit waste issues. The company was founded in 2001 by AERC to service customers with computer and electronics recycling needs.

Com-Cycle provides a spectrum of services including secure data management and destruction, total asset management, and end-of-life electronics management, along with a "Zero-Waste-to-Landfill" policy.

With its fleet of GPS-tracked trucks, the company provides delivery confirmations and in-house management of logistics for its clients, creating an audit trail for compliance with data security and environmental laws, including HIPAA regulations. Com-Cycle offers "chain of custody" assets for clients with coverage throughout all major markets in the United States, with plans to open 3 new strategically located facilities within the next 12 months.

Please visit www.com-cycle.com to learn more.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, AERC Com Cycle DynTek, environmental electronics recycling

Martha Rose Construction, Inc. Joins U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Bodman to Launch Builders' Challenge in Orlando, Fla.

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 09:43:04 GMT

National building performance program to feature new E-Scale

ORLANDO, Fla. - Feb. 14 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Martha Rose Construction, Inc., joined today with U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman to announce a new national energy-saving initiative - the U.S. Department of Energy's Builders Challenge. Martha Rose was at the Builders Challenge kick-off event held at the International Builders Show in Orlando, Florida.

"For Marsha Rose Construction building high-performance homes has been a core business model for the last 4 years," said Martha Rose. "We welcome this voluntary initiative for builders, and look forward to working with DOE to build consumer awareness of the benefits for buying highly energy efficient homes."

The EnergySmart Home Scale, or E-Scale, will serve as a tool for marketing energy-efficient homes. Consumer interest has been increasing in the top energy-performing homes, and now there is a tool that clearly allows builders to differentiate their products in the marketplace.

"Martha Rose believes it is possible to build new homes that are more efficient than code by 30 percent or better at little or no net cost," continued Martha Rose. "Achieving these efficiencies does require sophisticated design and installation techniques that go beyond standard industry practice, but the competitive advantage of these homes with their high quality means faster sales. And, we believe this kind of high-performance building is the right thing for our nation, our natural environment, and our customers."

The challenge program encourages U.S. home builders to adopt the E-Scale on a voluntary basis, and also to utilize best practices for home design and construction. The initiative seeks to accelerate use of successful whole-house design and construction practices that have been developed and verified through DOE research in its Building America program.

About Martha Rose Construction, Inc.
Martha Rose Construction has come to lead the Puget Sound region in Building not-so-big, zero-energy use homes in low-impact developments. "Building high performance homes makes us part of the solution when it comes to our world's energy challenges. Working with the Building America Team insures that we accomplish this goal with clarity and efficiency." More information: www.Martharoseconstruction.com.

About the U.S. Department of Energy's Builders Challenge
The U.S. Department of Energy has posed a challenge to the homebuilding industry - to build 220,000 high performance homes by 2012. Homes that qualify for the Builders Challenge must achieve a 70 or better on the EnergySmart Home Scale (E-Scale), meaning that they will use at least 30% less energy than a typical new home built to code. The E-Scale allows homebuyers to understand - at a glance - how the energy performance of a particular home compares with others. Through the Builders Challenge, participating homebuilders will have an easy way to differentiate their best energy-performing homes from other products in the marketplace, and to make the benefits clear to buyers.

Through industry partnerships and existing programs, the Builders Challenge will promote the use of market-tested and cost-effective energy efficiency strategies. The Challenge will support, recognize, and reward builders for achieving higher levels of energy efficiency. DOE's goal is that, by 2030, new home buyers will have the option to buy a cost-effective Net-Zero Energy Home (NZEH) anywhere in the United States. Learn more at: www.buildingamerica.gov/challenge.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Martha Rose Construction, Department of Energy Builders Challenge

SolarReserve Announces Appointment of Top Power Plant Development Expert

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 12:39:21 GMT

Kevin Smith Joins as Chief Operating Officer to Head Development Activities

LOS ANGELES, Calif. - Jan. 18 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- SolarReserve, the Los Angeles-based solar thermal company that has recently commercialized an innovative heat storage technology that provides utility-scale solar power on demand, today announced that Kevin Smith has been hired to serve as Chief Operating Officer and Head of Development.

"Kevin's expertise in developing and building power plants from the ground up is unparalleled," said Terry Murphy, President and Chief Executive Officer of SolarReserve. "We are fortunate to have his experience and track record of success in all sectors of the energy industry - wind, natural gas, oil and biomass. He will now be applying that expertise to the solar energy industry with SolarReserve's breakthrough technology."

Smith has more than 20 years of experience in power plant development, acquisitions, financing and construction, having developed and built more than forty power facilities worldwide. Prior to joining SolarReserve, Smith was Senior Vice President of Development at Invenergy LLC. While there, he led the development of Invenergy Wind from a startup company in 2004 to one of the largest privately-owned renewable energy businesses in the world just three years later. By the end of 2007, Invenergy had projects in operation and construction with capital costs estimated at more than $2.0 billion.

"Working for SolarReserve will be a tremendous opportunity," said Smith. "I look forward to using my skills to expand this renewable and dispatchable technology developed by United Technology's subsidiary, HS Rocketdyne. The process of using molten salt to store solar energy for later use is essential to meeting the growing demand for power - and achieving energy independence at the same time."

Prior to his work at Invenergy, Smith founded and was President of Insight Energy, Inc., was Chief Operating Officer of London-based Rolls-Royce Power Ventures, and was General Manager & Vice President of Indeck Energy. At Rolls-Royce Power Ventures, he led the company's aggressive growth from a startup to a leader in the international development of industrial power projects by building an international team and constructing projects in ten countries.

Smith earned an MBA in Finance from the University of Chicago and a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University and is a registered Professional Engineer.

About SolarReserve
SolarReserve is a collaboration between United Technologies Corporation (UTC), a Dow 30 conglomerate, and US Renewables Group, a private equity firm focused exclusively on renewable energy. SolarReserve holds the exclusive worldwide license to build state-of-the-art Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) plants that use equipment manufactured by HS Rocketdyne, a subsidiary of UTC. Rocketdyne, in partnership with the US Department of Energy, has invested $100 million in the design and manufacture of these components to date, and brings a broad base of experience in space, power, and other programs to support the further development and implementation of the CSP technology.

SolarReserve's CSP plants harness and store the sun's power by concentrating energy from thousands of heliostats, or mirrors, that track the sun. The concentrated heat is captured in a receiver and used to heat molten salt to temperatures exceeding 1000 degrees Fahrenheit. The heated molten salt then flows to a tank where it is stored and later pumped into a steam generator. The steam then drives a turbine that generates electricity.

This process is revolutionary because it allows renewable and dispatchable energy generation at a utility scale, with SolarReserve's plant capable of providing consumers with a reliable and predictable source of energy at peak hours. The heat storage technology is a critical breakthrough as it allows the matching of electricity generation with electricity demand while maintaining 98% thermal efficiency. The process does not require any fossil fuels to maintain the system integrity, and therefore, has zero harmful emissions.

As countries seek to promote clean, renewable, independent energy resources at a utility scale, SolarReserve offers a breakthrough technology that is economically competitive with modern fossil fuel plants, and which is sheltered from future increases in the price of oil, natural gas, coal, and other fuels.

For more information about SolarReserve, please visit www.solar-reserve.com.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, SolarReserve solar thermal company, green power solar power plant

Local Jewelry Manufacturer Recognized for being Environmentally Conscious

Wed, 09 Jan 2008 11:00:52 GMT

Relios Jewelry receives Two Awards from City of Albuquerque for Pollution Prevention

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. - Jan. 9 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Relios Jewelry, a company nationally recognized for its customer focus, merchandising teamwork, innovation, and operational excellence, now has more accolades to boast - this time in the arena of "Good Environmental Practices." The Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Department's Pollution Prevention Staff has awarded America's largest manufacturer of authentic American-made jewelry with not one but two prestigious honors: 1) Pollution Prevention (p2) Award, and 2) 5 PPM Silver Award.

The Pollution Prevention (p2) Award recognizes the company's efforts to reduce waste, dedication to pollution prevention practices, and education. A letter from City Pollution Prevention staff outlines a number of specific "Best Management Practices" used by Relios ranging from practicing good housekeeping to proper management of waste.

The 5 PPM Silver Award distinguishes Relios for its efforts in reducing silver bearing waste(s) - acknowledging that the company has been a vital partner in helping to reduce silver discharges to the sanitary sewer system.

"Relios is very proud to be recognized for being a good environmental partner," says company President Bill Pollack. "These honors speak to the level of dedication and care that our employees exercise at work every single day. Whether it's in the creation of our jewelry or the attention to pollution prevention, our staff really goes the extra mile, and it shows."

Relios, which has been designing and manufacturing contemporary sterling silver and genuine gemstone jewelry since the 1970's, will go through seven tons of silver this year, and ship more than 700,000 finished pieces of jewelry throughout the world. That's three pieces of jewelry for every woman in Albuquerque!

Corporately responsible and "green-friendly," Relios maintains a strong commitment to quality control and trust. Every single piece of Relios jewelry is manufactured in the U.S. and is lead-free and nickel-free. Additionally, Relios uses only recycled precious metals in its manufacturing processes.

The major television network jewelry supplier recently more than doubled its size with a move into a 25,000-square-foot factory in Albuquerque. The new building boasts a large well-lighted factory space, along with offices, conference rooms, and designer work-spaces to accommodate its 140-employees.

Relios Jewelry designs and manufactures more than 100 new items per season from their Albuquerque, New Mexico facility. Their moderately priced, American jewelry styles can be found online at www.relioswholesale.com.

Contact: Kelly Walter, Relios Marketing and Creative Director, (505) 345-5304, ext. 201.

Copyright © 2008 Send2Press® Newswire, a unit of Neotrope®
TAGS: Send2Press Newswire, Pollution Prevention Award p2, reducing silver bearing waste

The Green Scene's Merchants of Venice - The New Eco-preneurs

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 14:14:19 GMT

VENICE, Calif. - Dec. 12 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- So, what's the buzz about the "Al Gore-ified" products and services that have been popping up on the Los Angeles business scene? Java Juice(R), Inc., a Venice-based coffee extract company, talks about the green scene and the upcoming Eco Gift Expo being held at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium, December 15-16.

Java Juice(R) (www.JavaJuiceExtract.com), one of the companies scheduled to appear at the Expo, supports numerous programs designed to improve coffee quality, and social responsibility for individuals and communities working in all aspects of the coffee industry.

"Being a part of the Expo allows us to share in creating a business environment that is ethical and sustainable," A. Karno co-owner of Java Juice, said.

Tommy Rosen, the force behind the first annual Expo (www.EcoGift.com), is something of a green innovator. Richard Karno, originator of Java Juice Inc. is one of Los Angeles' most innovative eco-preneurs. Rosen and Karno have also had a large impact on the green scene, but the two have never met, despite their close proximity of less than a mile. Will they meet at the Expo?

Rosen focused his marketing prowess on conjuring the greenest of the green Expos to enhance the holiday experience. He gathered together 150 companies to sell high-quality, eco-friendly gifts.

"The emphasis is on de-stressing the season," Rosen said. "I wanted to create a holiday shopping experience that could serve a dual purpose - re-energizing relationships and giving back to the environment."

Many areas of the community are getting involved. The Los Angeles Times is sponsoring an eco-gift wrapping station where shoppers can have gifts wrapped in the newspaper section of their choice; Whole Foods Market is providing reusable shopping bags; and groundwork(TM), L.A.'s largest organic coffee roastery (www.GroundworkCoffee.com), will be sampling Java Juice(R) as well as selling pounds of its organic whole-bean Holiday Blend.

What is Java Juice? It's a new, machine-less, (just add water) coffee extract made from 100-percent organic, shade grown, kosher, premium-grade Arabica coffee.

"It goes with me when I'm on the road. Without it I've got bupkis," coffee barista, Alisabeth Brown, and assistant manager at Karno's flagship store on Rose Avenue in Venice, quipped.

Java Juice(R) requires no brewers, grinders, or recyclable filters. Popular in the outdoor retailer industry because of its 0.5-ounce size, Karno notices it becoming equally as popular in urban settings.

"We'll be demonstrating how to 'rip it, drip it, and sip it,'" Karno said.

Karno, a second-generation native Angelino, became a "hometown hero" by growing his business while other mom and pop cafe's were feeling the squeeze of heavily financed, corporate coffee chains. More than fifteen years later, Karno's passion for organic and sustainable coffee has grown his business to six coffee houses and Java Juice(R) is sold on three continents.

Both businessmen hope that local sponsors take notice of their resident tastemakers. Will Karno, the seasoned eco-pro and Rosen, the new pioneer meet in the green trenches? Whatever the outcome, the Expo will be a meeting place for like-minded Southern Californians. Family entertainment and an organic food court will also be available.

Drought: Think Before You Flush! Says BioLet USA

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 14:09:47 GMT

NEWCOMERSTOWN, Ohio - Nov. 6 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- There are many ways to conserve your valuable water supplies. Now could be the time to take a closer look at your toilet system, says BioLet USA, Inc. With the extreme low levels of rainfall and the already low water tables, many homeowners and residents of drought affected states are concerned with the growing drought conditions and the effects it will have on their daily lives.

Many families are, justifiably, looking for ways to conserve their valuable water supplies that are rapidly declining during this drought situation. One aspect people start taking a closer look at is their flush toilet.

A Report released by the EPA, "How to Conserve Water and Use It Effectively" states: "Residential demands account for about three-fourths of the total urban water demand. Indoor use accounts for roughly 60 percent of all residential use, and of this, toilets (at 3.5 gallons per flush) use nearly 40 percent. ... More than 4.8 billion gallons of water are flushed down toilets each day in the United States. The average American uses about 9,000 gallons of water to flush 230 gallons of waste down the toilet per year."

This report also states that replacing 3.5 gallons per flush toilets with 1.6 gallons per flush toilets will result in a 34 percent savings in household water consumption. However, Jim Weaver, Operations Manager of BioLet USA in Newcomerstown, Ohio states: "BioLet has a product that will further reduce this usage to zero!" BioLet is the US distributor for a Swedish manufactured toilet system that requires no water, no sewer or septic hookup. BioLet toilets need no chemicals and produce no offensive odors.

BioLet composting toilets are an innovation developed over 30 years ago in Sweden to remedy the country's increasing water problems. BioLet toilets work closely with Mother Nature: In warm weather, naturally occurring aerobic bacteria transform organic material into a safe, non-offensive soil component called "humus." Humus is a valuable additive that conditions the soil by supplying vital nutrients. BioLet unites this natural process with modern technology and advanced engineering to accelerate and optimize the decomposition of solids and evaporation of liquids. The finished material is collected in the bottom of the unit, while any odors and water vapors are exhausted through the ventilation system. This entire process is completed within a toilet that is easy to install, simple to maintain and economical to operate.

Another report by the EPA, "Water Efficiency Technology Fact Sheet: Composting Toilets" states: "Public health professionals are beginning to recognize the need for environmentally sound human waste treatment and recycling methods. The composting toilet is a non-water carriage system that is well-suited for (but is not limited to) remote areas where water is scarce, or areas with low percolation, high water tables, shallow soil, or rough terrain. Because composting toilets eliminate the need for flush toilets, this significantly reduces water use and allows for the recycling of valuable plant nutrients."

With many governmental agencies and organizations including; The US Forestry Service, US Coastguard, Tennessee Valley Authority, Girl Scouts of America, University of Texas, Westminster College, North Jersey Water Supply Commission and many more using BioLet's composting toilets, it is clear to see that they are a viable option for replacing conventional toilets and conserving water! Since BioLet toilets have become more common to use, they are now available nationwide through Home Depot and other fine retailers.

On October 30, 2007, the National Drought Mitigation Center in Lincoln, NE states in its National Drought Summary: "For the longer period, the updated seasonal drought outlook indicates that drought will persist or even expand across the Southeast, Gulf Coast, and the Southwest...."

Therefore, next time you think about what you can do about the drought, think before you flush!

Further information about composting toilets can be obtained by contacting BioLet USA at 1-800-524-6538, visiting their web site at www.biolet.com, emailing them at info@biolet.com or writing to them at PO Box 548, Newcomerstown, OH 43832.

Boston's Grille Zone is Nation's First Certified Green Fast-Casual Restaurant

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 19:26:26 GMT

BOSTON, Mass. - Nov. 1 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Boston's Grille Zone is the first fast-casual restaurant in the nation to be certified green by the Green Restaurant Association. The Boston restaurant, which opened in June of 2007, is the first of several locations. Founders Ben Prentice and Barry Baker are currently entertaining investor inquiries to support plans for four additional locations in Boston and five in Albany over the next five years.

Prentice and Baker developed Grille Zone's eco-focused business model based on a goal of zero-waste and 100% sustainability. In order to reduce its carbon footprint, Grille Zone utilizes 100% compostable cups, plates, and cutlery, sources food items locally, and utilizes the most energy efficient restaurant equipment available. As a result, Grille Zone's Boston location currently produces an average of no more than 15 lbs of waste per day, which fills about one half of a standard 55 gallon trashbag.

According to the Green Restaurant Association, the average restaurant produces around 275 lbs of waste each day. "There are no trashcans in our eating area," explains Prentice. "We have a compost receptacle and a recycling receptacle; everything a customer needs to 'throw away' fits into one or the other. We don't even own a dumpster."

"Grille Zone produces as close to zero waste as a restaurant can - and that's pretty incredible," said Michael Oshman, Executive Director of the Green Restaurant Association. "There are very few restaurants in the country that can even approach being zero-waste businesses."

Grille Zone's affordable Americana menu features super-fresh (never frozen) food items, most of which are locally sourced. The menu includes freshly ground Certified Hereford Beef(TM) hamburgers, fresh hand cut French Fries (cooked in zero tans fat oil), super premium frappes, authentic German frankfurters, sodas made with real sugar cane and locally baked artisan rolls and buns. Grille Zone burgers are priced at $5.95. The typical check average is about $10.

Grille Zone is a fast-casual restaurant establishment. Fast-casual restaurants offer a higher quality menu, more upscale environment, and higher style of service than typical fast food restaurants. The fast-casual food delivery timeframe is slightly longer than fast food restaurants, but substantially shorter than full-service restaurants.

Grille Zone's Boston location is located at 1022 Commonwealth Ave in Boston, MA. More information: www.grillezone.com.

Sedona Citizens Fight to Save Starry Skies

Fri, 17 Aug 2007 15:45:00 GMT

SEDONA, Ariz. - Aug. 17 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Over two hundred Sedona citizens overflowed City Hall Chambers on August 15, to plead with City Council members and the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) to preserve their renowned dark and starry skies. Led by Keep Sedona Beautiful, Inc.(KSB), a local conservation organization, Sedona residents enlightened their leaders "on alternatives to putting up 76 sodium light poles that would add to global warming and cancer, while turning this magnificent town into a Las Vegas strip," according to Native Voices Foundation co-chair, Olympian Suzy "Chapstick" Chaffee.

Councilman Rob Adams was cheered for apologizing for not conducting more of a public process before approaching ADOT to find solutions to reduce accidents on the city's two mile strip of highway 89A in West Sedona. Over a three year period, six pedestrians were hit at night, (most alcohol impaired), crossing the five-lane highway.

*(Photo Caption: Satellite photos compare U.S. light pollution NOW compared to 1992! Why Sedona Residents are enlightening leaders about alternatives to erecting 76 light-polluting poles. Photo courtesy of NASA.)

"The pedestrian fatalities took place in an identified stretch of road which warrants a traffic signal," said Barbara Litrell, President of KSB, which has been praised by Governor Janet Napolitano for their innovations over 35 years. "76 street lights are overkill, and the economic, aesthetic and environmental impacts must be carefully evaluated in order to protect the values of this small town. Safety can be improved using other solutions," Litrell added. "

With America being the biggest energy guzzler and global warmer, raising awareness that preserving the starry skies of communities is another monumental way that Green Sedona is lighting the way toward reducing our gigantic carbon footprint, besides switching to natural cleaning products.

"We also considered the health impact, since one 250 watt bulb lit from dawn to dusk on 76 street lights, would emit 47 tons of CO2 per year, as well as a blanket of acid rain and chemicals like mercury, from Arizona coal used to electrify them," said environmental scientist Matthew Turner, Green Sedona(.org) founder. "ADOT needs to catch up with greener states like New Mexico that converted to solar lighting over 10 years."

"90% of Americans can't see their magical star filled skies because they live in overly lit areas. Even dark sky cities like Flagstaff need to work hard to reduce light pollution. "Flagstaff's Lowell Observatory is locating more of their telescopes out of town to avoid city's light pollution," said Bob Carabell, KSB Vice President and International Dark Skies Assoc member (ida.org).

By night's end, ADOT and the Council agreed to consider speed limit reduction from 40 to 30 mph, a traffic light where the fatal accidents happened, and other solutions such as solar lighting for crosswalks and sidewalk.

"With American and world cities vying for Green Leadership, the lessons and awareness from this battle could ripple... If thousands more cities reduced their night lights, all our children would have a brighter future, including preserving snow sports and the Winter Olympics," said Chaffee.

Native Voices Foundation(.org) is a Colorado non-profit 501C3 partnership of Olympians whose mission is to "create joyful unity through sports and education to heal Mother Earth for all our children."

Native American Olympic Sponsor Wins World Clean Energy Oscar(R)

Mon, 02 Jul 2007 23:21:00 GMT

Intertribal COUP's 'Native Wind' honored in Switzerland

BASIL, Switzerland - July 2 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- "At the first World Clean Energy Awards in Basel's Congress Center, Intertribal COUP's NativeEnergy, a partnership of 12 Great Plains Tribes, was honored as 'one of the world's premier projects promoting large-scale use of renewable energies,'" according to Native Voices Foundation's Tex Hall, former President of the National Congress of American Indians.

"As a proud sponsor of the Native American Olympic Teams, Intertribal COUP/Native Wind(.org) is happy to help lower America's giant carbon footprint to also help strengthen the future of snow sports and Winter Olympics," said Secretary Robert Gough, on returning from accepting the award with President Patrick Spears.

*(Photo Caption: L-R - Intertribal COUP's Patrick Spears and Bob Gough receive "World Clean Energy Courage Award" in Basel.)

A high-profile jury of experts picked nine winners from Abu Dhabi, China, India, Kenya, Sweden; and American Indians won the "Special Award for Courage" for their innovative Demonstration Environmental Justice Revitalization Project Plan, initiated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe to build utility scale wind projects on Great Plains reservations.

Andre Schneider, Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of the World Economic Forum said, "Jurors were struck with the innovations involved with mainstreaming utility scale wind power onto America's western transmission grid and the collective work of American Indian Tribes whose cultural and spiritual values underscore respect for, and the protection of Earth and her resources."

Intertribal COUP includes: Cheyenne River; Flandreau Santee; Lower Brule; Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara; Omaha; Rosebud; Sisseton; Spirit Lake; Pine Ridge and Standing Rock Sioux Tribes. Home to America's richest wind resources and poorest communities, led to COUP acquiring NativeEnergy.

"We are deeply honored and humbled by the world's recognition coming from Tribes seeking to build sustainable economies with good paying jobs for healthy futures for our children," said Spears.

"While making America more energy and weather secure, tribes can help meet Kyoto's renewable energy goals of ICLEI and U.S. Conference of Mayors' cities," said Gough.

Last winter NativeEnergy(.com) partnered with students at Vermont's Middlebury College to create the world's first Zero Carbon Ski Area, Middlebury Snow Bowl. Vice President Gore even supports NE's Carbon Offsets model.

Native Voices Foundation is a Colorado 501(c)3 non-profit partnership of U.S. Tribal leaders and Olympians to "create joyful unity through sports to heal Earth for all our children."

More information about NVF: www.nativevoices.org/

All trademarks acknowledged.

The cost of this news announcement was donated to the NVF by the staff of Neotrope® and Send2Press®.