The Vancouver Convention Center should serve as a shining example of the kind of “green” development communities should undertake when faced with the challenge of new construction. The incorporation of sustainable features, like green roofs, into the design of new buildings can reward municipalities with more than just aesthetic benefits.
There’s something about seeing all this green atop an urban building that is downright inspirational. The roof pictured here was designed by the Canadian green roofing firm Flynn Canada and DA/MCM + LMN Architects and built by PCL Westcoast Constructors.
Green roofs control storm water run-off, provide urban green spaces, lower heating and cooling costs and can provide recreational areas that expand the usable footprint of a structure. And one more thing…they look great.
The city of Miami will formally introduce its first hybrid-powered, “eco-friendly” solid waste truck on Wednesday, September 15th. Miami Mayor Thomas Regalado will be joined by reps from the EPA and the vehicle’s manufacturing partners, Autocar and Parker Hanafin.
The Autocar E3 – powered by an innovative hybrid-drive system developed by Parker-Hannifin – features the most advanced hybrid technology and energy recovery system available. The vehicle’s RunWise Advanced Series Hybrid Drive, increases fuel savings up to 50 %, lowers carbon emissions up to 38 tons per year and reduces noise levels and overall operating costs. The garbage truck was acquired through the National Clean Diesel Funding Assistance Program, from which the City obtained a grant to purchase the truck. The vehicle is 1,000 lbs lighter than competitive trash vehicles and is designed to be highly maneuverable in tight urban traffic situations.
It’s always an eco-friendly plus when a former waste by-product gets an extended life as a item. These colorful bowls are created from the coconut shell that remains after the coconut meat and milk have been harvested. Coconut palm is a fast-growing, renewable tropical plant, much like bamboo.
Each unique bowl features the naturally irregular shape of the individual coconut from whence it came – a nice departure from the usual symmetrical plastic shapes that dominate the modern household. Every bowl is cleaned and polished, then finished with a durable food-safe PU lacquer and bright, tropical color.
A set of 4 will run you $58 @ re-modern
If you’re like me, you have several boxes, drawers and assorted containers holding a jumbled mess of precious accessories. Here’s a solution for storing and displaying that mound of tangled earrings, bracelets and whatnot on your dresser…a retro-looking jewelry rack created from a repurposed printer’s drawer.
A perfect DIY project for anyone with access to antique desks, flea markets, or auctions, a working knowledge of hardware stores and a modicum of talent with tools.
Easier solution – buy one of the many racks sold @ birdblueheaven’s etsy shop (pictured above)
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