Beyond mountains of waste, a sustainable economy is seen
The linear economy has persisted domesticly and worldwide. Until recently, democracies, monarchies, and totalian regimes have all followed the same economic model. Drawing the line This model has served many generations, yet it endangers future generations. Some of the consequences are piled in front of us today. Others drift in the oceans, pollute our air, […]
The lower-carbon future of coal-fired power plants
Conversion to natural gas In the 1980’s, horizontal drilling and fracking had become common practice. Natural gas prices plummeted. Those lower costs, and the reduced carbon dioxide emissions of natural gas, caused many coal-fired power plants to be converted to natural gas. Power plant owners minimized transition costs, using the existing power grid without having […]
Utility cost savings begin with benchmarking
In the U.S., buildings consume an estimated 40% of the country’s energy.[1] Large commercial buildings also use a an estimated 2.3% of the public water supply.[2] Consumption of energy and water utilities at that volume has environmental, social, and balance sheet impact. The impact can and should be managed. Benchmarking can be a starting point for that initiative. […]
How a wider scope brings better focus to purchase decisions
ecoPreserve is pleased to bring you this guest article from Sheila Sheridan, IFMA Fellow, CFM, Retired. We are further honored to participate in the panel that Sheila will moderate at this year’s IFMA World Workplace (October 26-28, 2021 in Kissimmee, Florida). The panel, Today, Tomorrow and Beyond – Waste Management, will explore circular economy strategies […]
Keeping recyclables three steps away from landfills
Approximately 4.5 trillion pounds of trash is generated annually, and it’s getting worse. Annual trash accumulation is expected to reach 7.5 trillion pounds by mid-century. Landfill trash pollutes water supplies and the atmosphere. Methane emissions from landfills are often overlooked yet they emit more Greenhouse Gas than 21.6 million passenger cars. To achieve the nation’s […]
Here’s where hospitals find energy cost savings
Energy costs at U.S. hospitals average $1.67 per square foot for electricity and 48 cents per square foot for natural gas. Lighting, heating, and hot water typically represent 61-79% of total energy use. The numbers vary with climate. Regardless, energy cost savings can be claimed in every state, in any season.[1] Quick fixes The return […]
Climate change solutions can serve social needs
Ever-increasing numbers of weather and climate disasters have brought tragedy all too often. In 2020 alone, no fewer than 262 lives were lost. Property damages exceeded $95 billion. Each of those 22 disasters claimed or impacted lives while disrupting business and commerce.[1] Low-wealth communities were hardest hit by storms, floods, and fires. Those same cities […]
Better Solid Waste Management (SWM) in a circular economy
In a circular economy, recycling keeps waste materials out of landfills. Instead, the materials are available for valuable repurposing and reuse. Plastic packaging is seen along grocery store aisles, worldwide. One of the largest consumer products companies, Unilever, brings familiar brands to about 190 countries. In the U.S., their Dove, Hellmann’s, and Seventh Generation brands […]
Three routes to resilient communities
In 2020, 16 of the weather and climate disasters in the U.S. each brought losses exceeding $1 billion. Eleven severe storms devastated lives and properties in more than 30 states. Further billion-dollar losses were the result of fires, drought, and cyclones.[1] Warnings of these climate change impacts have been published – and at times disputed, […]
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