Sustainable Living Archives - Page 5 of 6

5 Dec, 2011 By Mary

Dreaming of a Green, Green Christmas.

Christmas is a time of the year when lots of waste is generated and our energy consumption overall is greatly increased. It is a time for celebrations and with a little thought and imagination we can help reduce the environmental impact of the festive season.

Here are some Green Christmas tips that’ll help you to save money, reduce your Christmas carbon footprint and won’t cost the Earth!

Although plastic Christmas trees are reusable from year to year, real trees are the more sustainable choice. Plastic trees are made mostly of plastic and use up resources in both the manufacture and shipping. While artificial trees theoretically last forever, research shows that they are typically discarded when repeated use makes them less attractive. Discarded artificial trees are then sent to landfills, where their plastic content makes them last forever.

Live trees, on the other hand, are a renewable resource grown on tree farms, that are replanted regularly. They contribute to air quality while growing, and almost ninety percent are recycled into mulch. Live trees are usually locally grown and sold, saving both transportation costs and added air pollution.

Go to your local council’s website after Christmas for details on tree recycling and collection.

Visit your local garden centre and buy a live Irish grown tree in a large pot. This will allow you to reuse the tree for a few years without having to plant or re-pot the tree. If you have a spacious garden the tree can be planted out after Christmas where it can be enjoyed for many years and also help the environment.

We all like to decorate our Christmas trees and the exterior of the house with hundreds of those little twinkling lights and you don’t have to stop doing that to go green. However, you do need to replace those traditional Christmas lights from years past with the newest kid on the block – LED (light emitting diode) Christmas lights.

They use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent Christmas lights. Beyond the decrease in energy usage, these LED lights produce very little heat which significantly reduces the risk of fire and they last about 10 times longer than traditional lights (about 200,000 hours).

Look for locally made gifts – many gifts today come from halfway around the world, and the impact of transportation, the raw materials, manufacturing ethics, use of toxic chemicals etc contributes significantly to greenhouse emissions and global warming. Local markets, craft fairs and artisan shops are a good source for gifts that come without the added costs of transportation.

Choose gifts made from recycled sources – many individuals and small businesses have developed great products using recycled materials. Supporting these businesses helps reduce the waste stream while promoting the concept of making best use of available materials.

Why not consider the gift of a tree for someone special this Christmas. Planting a tree can be a very touching gift as it will last a lifetime. Trees are also very beneficial for the environment and help set off our carbon footprint.

Alternatively you may know someone who would like to start growing their own vegetables but just don’t know where to start. By growing vegetables in your own back yard, you directly reduce the demand for produce shipped from remote locations and thereby, reduce your own carbon footprint. So, whether they have a sunny windowsill, a small back garden or a few acres why not contact Greenside Up in Carlow and Aisling Designs in Wexford who, with their expertise can point them in the right direction to realise their dream.

Just imagine going out into your own garden on Christmas morning to harvest your own organically grown vegetables that ‘taste’ like vegetables should!

Remember to wrap your gifts in an eco-friendly way and try to avoid using foil or plastic wrapping, plastic ribbons and sellotape. Try wrapping your presents in brown or recycled paper, recycled foil or newspaper, and using string or raffia (made from bark which regenerates) to tie it up. Better still find inspiration from things lying around the house and get creative. Wrap presents with old maps, calendars, the comics section of newspaper, or children’s artwork. Once you start looking at material as potential gift wrapping aids, the possibilities are endless.

Candles add a lovely festive touch to the home. Paraffin candles are made from petroleum residue and are not good for your health or for the environment. Only buy candles made from soy, beeswax or natural vegetable-based wax are more eco-friendly because they biodegrade and are smoke-free.

‘Deck the halls with boughs of holly…’ Take a look around the garden and countryside and you will discover an abundance of natural materials to decotate your home. Evergreens, berries, fruit, twigs, pine cones, holly, mistletoe, bark, and moss can all be used to create an amazing festive feel throughout your home. Mantle pieces, door wreaths, centre pieces, swags, the list is endless, the list is endless and remember it won’t have cost the Earth!

Sending Christmas cards to friends, family, neighbours and co-workers is a tradition in most Irish families. This year, try to buy cards that have been made from recycled paper or from sustainable forests or better still send an e-card where possible. The amount of cards sent every year places a huge demand on natural resources not to mention the transport emissions from moving these cards through the post!

Making homemade cards is a fun activity for the family. They may not be as professional as shop bought cards, but they are more personal and just as appreciated.

Instead of throwing the cards that you have received in the bin at the end of the season, recycle them or better still cut them up to make gift tags for next year’s presents.

Finally, buy cards from a charity that uses the funds to make a difference. Charity cards bought in major retailers do not raise a lot of cash for the charities whose names are on them. As little as 10 per cent of the sale price of some cards actually goes to the cause. If a card is bought directly from the charity, closer to 80 per cent of the total price goes to the charity.

2 Sep, 2011 By Mary

The light continues to go out on incandescent light bulbs

From 1st September 2011, shops won’t be able to buy in new stocks of clear 60 watt traditional light bulbs under EU rules. They are no longer allowed to order new stocks of clear 60W bulbs but can however sell whatever remaining stock they have and manufacturers will have to stop supplying them.

Initially, Ireland’s National Climate Change Strategy wanted the government to issue a levy for low-efficiency bulbs. In December 2007 Ireland went one step further and became the first country in the EU to introduce new legislation to ban the sale of energy-wasting incandescent lightbulbs by 2009.

It was later announced that all member states of the EU agreed to a progressive phase-out of incandescent light bulbs by 2012.

From 1st September 2012 it will be lights out for the incandescent light bulb when the 40W incandescent light bulb will be finally banned. As in 2011 shops can sell their remaining stock and manufacturers will have to stop supplying them. This will be a big change for people as the incandescent light bulb makes up about 60% of the Irish market.

As part of an EU directive, traditional light bulbs will be replaced by more energy-efficient types — halogen bulbs, which are 30% more energy-efficient, and the CFL long-life bulbs, which are 80% more energy-efficient.

Before the legislation to ban incandescent lightbulbs was drafted, different bulb technologies were assessed in an extensive study, to determine their potential environmental benefits and impact on consumers and the light bulb industry. The EU decided to phase out conventional incandescent bulbs to reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 15 million tonnes a year.

The use of traditional lightbulbs can account for as much as one-fifth of household electricity consumption. The electricity used over the lifetime of a single incandescent bulb costs 5 to 10 times the original purchase price of the bulb itself. Replacing 3 x 100W incandescent lightbulbs with CFLs using 3 hours of electricity per day can save an average household up to €43 per annum.

The EU phase-out started in 2009 when 100W bulbs stopped being sold, while last September saw the phase-out of 75W bulbs. All remaining clear incandescent bulbs on the market, including 40W and 25W varieties, will be phased out in September 2012.

A traditional incandescent lightbulb and a compact fluorescent light (CFL)

CFL bulbs, or compact fluorescent lightbulbs :

CFL bulbs, or compact fluorescent lightbulbs are designed to replace incandescent, halogen and other electric lights around your house, use between 60% and 80% less energy than their incandescent counterparts, making them an increasingly popular way to cut energy use without having to make any radical changes. CFLs can be applied nearly anywhere that incandescent lights are used. Energy-efficient CFLs can be used in recessed fixtures, table lamps, track lighting, ceiling fixtures and porchlights.

While the purchase price of an integrated CFL is typically 3 to 10 times greater than that of an equivalent incandescent lightbulb, the extended lifetime and lower energy use will more than compensate for the higher initial cost.

CFL’s are made of glass tubes filled with gas and a small amount of mercury. The amount is so small that an old-fashioned glass thermometer holds 100 times as much mercury as one CFL bulb. No mercury is released when the bulbs are intact or in use, but CFLs can release mercury vapour when broken. It is important that you are aware of the steps to follow when cleaning up a broken CFL.

Light is emitted when mercury molecules in a CFL bulb become excited by electricity running between two electrodes at its base. The mercury emits an invisible ultraviolet light that becomes visible when it hits the white coating inside the CLF bulb.

It’s important that you know how to dispose of Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs because, as already stated they contain mercury, a hazardous chemical. In Ireland (possibly the whole EU) as part of the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipement (WEEE) directive, retailers must take back used CFL bulbs for free when a new bulb is bought. It is important that these are recycled and not just thrown out. The environment and cost benefits of CFL bulbs make them and excellent eco-friendly option for lighting. They can also be brought to Civic Amenity sites and disposed of free of charge.

LEDs – light emitting diodes.

The other option to replace incandescent bulbs are LEDs – light emitting diodes. They are becoming increasingly popular in homes and the most common uses of LED lights are in bulbs, shop displays, flashlights, traffic lights, Christmas lights and much more.

LED bulbs last up to 10 times as long as compact fluorescents, and far longer than typical incandescents. They offer the advantages of CFLs — lower power consumption and longer lifetimes — without the downside of toxic mercury.

LEDs do not have a filament, they are not damaged under circumstances when a regular incandescent bulb would be broken. LED light bulbs use only 2-17 watts of electricity (1/3rd to 1/30th of Incandescent or CFL). LED bulbs used in fixtures inside the home save electricity, remain cool and save money on replacement costs since LED bulbs last so long.

26 Jan, 2011 By Mary

Alurad – The Perfect Radiator.

Combining efficiency, style, and choice, ALURAD radiators really are the Perfect Radiator. ALURAD radiators are manufactured from high grade aluminium and offer you the chance to build your own heating system customised to both your heating and interior design needs.

ALURAD radiators are available in a range of different sizes and styles to suit every application and there are a number of towel rail options also.

The HSE recommended surface temperature of radiators in health and social care facilities is 43°Celsius. ALURAD radiators work well at these lower temperatures and are well suited to use with renewable heating systems such as heat pumps as well as more traditional systems such as oil and gas boilers. ALURAD radiators are ideal for hospitals, nursing homes, care centres, schools, public buildings, offices and homes.

By reducing the water content of your central heating system by over 50%, Alurad save energy and provide instant-response heating.

Klas Chrome Model — The vertical Klas are perfect for kitchen/dining areas where wall space for a radiator is tight.

The vertical Klas are perfect for kitchen/dining areas where wall space for a radiator is tight. Alurad has developed the Klas model by using the “Cross Air Flow” principle and the very popular narrow profile. The high temperature achieved through Crosss Air Flow radiates into spaces rapidly and homogenously ensuring high levels of heating comfort.

Mistral 1 — Mistral – timber effect model

The Mistral models are a popular choice with renovators looking for a neater, more sleek radiator. Reflecting modern design techniques and with its soft contours, Mistral offers a different sense of aesthetics for the user. Mistral’s narrow segments, curved casing and heating power distinguish it from other radiators.

Alurad have combined the high efficiency of Klas with the unique aesthetics of Mistral to develop the Meltem model.

Alurad Kemer is different from other radiator models as it is designed for embedded installations and/or to be used as a baseboard.

Alurad Kombi – Created by combining two Alurad Klas radiators, Alurad Kombi is a perfect free-standing option for open spaces where high levels of heat output are required. kombi can be floor or wall mounted.

Alurad Atlantis are designed to offer clear, sharp lines as per the preference of many architects and engineers. ATLANTIS look great with a splash of colour on one or two segments, enabling you to boldly match your room’s colour scheme.

Except for very large rooms, ALURAD bathroom towel rails will provide all the heat you need in your bathroom. There is no need for a separate radiator.

Alurad high efficient radiators are available in 10 models and with up to 15 colour options, can be tailored to any interior design scheme. Alurad will be approximately 40-50% smaller than conventional radiators, to provide the same heat output.

ALURAD – High heat efficiency

Alurads use approx 80% less water than conventional rads and heat up 4 times faster, used in conjunction with modern heating controls Alurads will save on your energy bills. Steel radiators heat up relatively slowly and will stay warm for some time after the heating is turned off – this heat is surplus to requirements and therefore a waste of energy. In contrast, Alurad will heat up almost instantly bringing your entire house up to temperature rapidly. When the desired temperature is reached, the Alurad cool down relatively quickly. There is no waste of excess heat.

They are 30 to 50% smaller than conventional rads to provide the same heat output due to their high heat transfer as a result of their design and efficiency. They also save wall space of course because of their superior heat transfer per unit area.

Efficiency is a productivity metric, for example quantity or speed, whereas Effectiveness is a quality metric. Alurad are more effective in heating a space compared to conventional rads due to their high efficiency as explained above.

The raw material and design superiority of Alurad provides excellent heat efficiency.

See online brochure at https://www.ecoevolution.ie/alurad_flash.html , page 26 explains the operation principle of cross air flow that is used in some of the Alurad products.

22 Sep, 2010 By Mary

Nissan have turned over a New LEAF!

We were invited to come along to the Nissan LEAF Roadshow in Kilkenny to test drive the world’s first affordable, mass produced electric car, the Nissan LEAF. This was one of only two in Europe and was a left hand drive version.

They were very sceptical, another electric bubble car, how would this one differ? Arriving at the Roadshow they were very surprised to see that the Nissan LEAF looked like a normal 5-seater family car, but this was no normal car. It is a car that runs on 100% electricity, a car with no fuel tank, no mechanically propelled engine and no exhaust pipe and is therefore a zero emissions car. Mechanics may not be over the moon about its arrival as it is the dawn of a new breed of vehicle that does not have the associated high service and maintenance costs that we have come to accept. In fact the average annual running costs for the Nissan LEAF, based on 12,000 miles or 19,200 kms, are expected to be in or around €232, or less than €20 per month. With the LEAF the standard service intervals of a normal car are a thing of the past with replacement tyres now probably being the biggest maintenance cost.

This is a sleek looking mid-size family car with a very eye catching appearance and a surprisingly spacious interior; four adult males were easily and comfortably accommodated. No key in the ignition, no clutch and no gear stick, just a press of a button and the car is started, but shut your eyes and you wouldn’t realise as the only indications are visual ones. The Nissan LEAF has the performance of a 1.6 litre petrol engine and is very quick and smooth in acceleration, it drives like an automatic but much more responsive and without the associated gear change shunts and roaring engine. Power is delivered via an 80kW a.c. motor that develops enough torque to reach a maximum speed of over 140 km/h. Acceleration from a standstill is very impressive indeed and the LEAF floats on seemingly effortlessly and silently. The LEAF is so silent that below 30km/h it emits an audible beep to alert unsuspecting pedestrians and cyclists of its presence.

Charging socket under the Nissan badge just in front of the bonnet.

The electric motor is powered by a bank of lithium-ion batteries that are mounted under the seats and floor of the LEAF thus giving a low centre of gravity and balanced weight distribution resulting in excellent handling and ride comfort. The latest generation lithium-ion batteries used in the LEAF are manufactured by Automotive Energy Supply Corporation (AESC), a joint venture company between Nissan and the Japanese electronics company NEC. These batteries are more efficient, more powerful and faster to recharge than anything gone before. The batteries can be recharged to 80% battery capacity in about 25 minutes from a fast charging point but the more normal method is a slower overnight charge. A full charge delivers a capacity of about 160kms but is very dependent on driving habits. The charging socket is under the Nissan badge just in front of the bonnet. ESB will install home charging points free of charge to the first 2,000 electric vehicle customers.

Under the bonnet Nissan have provided a mock engine but this space could have been put to better use. There is a standard 12V DC battery also to cater for starting and instrumentation on the dash, there is a small solar photovoltaic (PV) panel on top of the boot door that provides some level of recharge to the 12V battery. The boot is just adequate, certainly wont be carrying your full set of golf clubs in there. For a car with the latest generation lithium-ion batteries whose thinner structure and distribution around the vehicle allows for more room inside the vehicle itself, it is a pity that the lack of a conventional engine does not mean pucks of cargo space as well. But this is the only real negative in what is otherwise a breath of fresh air to the automotive industry and a real credit to Nissan.

086 — Small solar photovoltaic (PV) panel located on the boot

The Nissan LEAF that will be available in Ireland will come fully equipped with features such as 16” Alloy Wheels, fully automatic Climate Control, Satellite Navigation that doubles up as a screen for the Rear Parking Camera, Cruise Control and a quick charge socket. Safety equipment such as Driver, Passenger, Side and Curtain airbags will be standard along with Electronic Stability Control. Equipment will also include the very distinctive LED headlamps which is a first for Nissan.

According to Nissan innovative smart phone connectivity will allow an owner to control many elements of the LEAF’s functions remotely, including telling the car when to re-charge, to heat or cool the interior of the car before starting a journey and many more innovative features. The Satellite Navigation on the LEAF can connect directly to a Global Data Centre via the Telematics System giving owners updates on charging points, driving patterns and so on.

Road tax is €104 per year but should these state of the art zero-emissions vehicles be exempt from road tax?

Nissan have certainly set the bar extremely high indeed and for this they must be applauded. The LEAF is certainly suited to city driving and low mileage driving but as technological advances extends the range of these vehicles they will become the vehicle of choice for all types of customers.

093 — Test drive the Nissan Leaf at a branch near you!

Thanks to Liam Martin, Wexford Car Centre for the invitation to test drive this great piece of technology. It was a truly unexpected surprise. Test drive the LEAF at a branch near you!

All photographs copyright of Eco Evolution

10 Sep, 2010 By Mary

Cabragh Wetlands Visitor Day

We were invited to come along to Cabragh Wetlands to speak about renewable energy products and how they can benefit homeowners and businesses. There was great interest on the day and homeowners, farmers and businesses alike were all interested in ways to reduce their energy costs.

Cabragh Wetlands are committed to the three-fold vision of conservation, education and recreation. A wide variety of activities are offered on an ongoing basis to the general public, with the aim to create a greater awareness to the conservation and appreciation of our natural environment.

The Cabragh Wetlands Trust was registered in 1993 in an effort to save a vast area of wetland habitats from destruction after the filling-in of the settling pools by the Thurles Sugar Factory during its closure. These lagoons used to be an oasis of wildlife, particularly birds. The Trust was formed and acquired the land adjacent to the filled-in lagoons to ensure the continuation of this resting place for migratory birds.

Funding was made available through the LEADER programme and this enabled the necessary work to be carried out. Over a couple of years fencing was put in place, ponds were excavated, two bird-hides were built and walkways developed, a car park was laid out and finally a Visitor-cum-Education centre was built.

The Centre is run by a group of committed volunteers who provide exciting field trips for children of primary school age. The Wetlands have no less than 15 different habitats including ponds, reed swamps, hedgerows, streams and wild flower meadows. Footpaths and raised walkways with beautifully illustrated information boards as well as a large bird hide make an ideal place for school children to discover the sights and sounds of nature in a safe and child friendly environment.

Sculpture 'Man on Wire II' made by a local artist. — Sculpture ‘Man on Wire II’ made by a local artist.

The Cabragh Wetlands Trust is a charity organisation and is relying solely on the goodwill of benefactors and volunteers for the maintenance and development of the centre. With the conservation of the site and the essential infrastructure in place, the Trust is now focusing on its second main aim, namely education. Although Cabragh Wetlands has the magnificent outdoors to offer and a beautiful information centre further work needs to be done.

Samples of Wildlife — Samples of local wildlife at the centre

A wide variety of activities are offered throughout the year to the general public to help create a greater awareness of conservation and also appreciation of our natural environment. During the Summer months a number of guided walks take place through the wetland with pond dipping and identifying wild flowers, trees, bugs and birds as well as workshops on a number of topics including bird box making and planting hedgerows. A series of Winter lectures are also held each year with topics ranging from ‘The Cosmic Walk’, ‘Bee-keeping’, ‘Nature and the First World War’ to ‘Heritage and the Tipperary Landscape’.

Educational display — One of the many educational displays which can be viewed at the centre.

Primary schools can avail of the following educational field trips: Exploring a Hedgerow & Exploring a Pond. The children will have a chance to watch birds from the hide, go pond dipping, identify the creatures they have caught and visit the nature table at the centre. Students in second level education participating in young scientist projects are more than welcome to come along to explore and utilise Cabragh Wetlands as a source of data collection. Advanced field trips are available for second level students also.

An amazing display of ‘recycled’ art.

Locally grown fruit, vegetables, juices and home baking were also on display.

We would like to take this opportunity to wish Cabragh Wetlands all the best in the future and well done on the great achievements to date.

Photographs copyright of Eco Evolution

23 Jun, 2010 By Mary

Visit to Daikin Manufacturing Plant – Bruges, Belgium

We were invited by Daikin to visit their manufacturing plant in Bruges, Belgium. Daikin has more than 50 years of experience with heat Pumps and provides more than a million of them to homes and commercial applications each year. Daikin Altherma is a total domestic heating and hot water system based on air source heat pump technology. It represents a flexible and cost-effective alternative to a fossil fuel boiler, with a cooling option. The inherent energy efficiency characteristics of Daikin Altherma make it an ideal solution to reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions.

People are becoming more and more aware of the cost of heating. Traditional heating systems and boilers use fossil fuels, making them an expensive and non sustainable option for the environment. Nobody wants to waste their money. Since two thirds of the heat generated by the Daikin Altherma air source heat pump system is free of charge and maintenance is minimal, the perfect solution is just around the corner.

Daikin Altherma air-to-water heat pump quickly creates an optimal room temperature for you and your family. You enjoy a comfortably warm environment in just 3 steps.

The heat pump extracts free low temperature heat from the outside air.
The system raises the temperature of the recovered heat
This greater warmth is then distributed throughout your home via heating emitters

10062010(002) — Daikin Air-to-Water Heat Pumps

The Daikin Altherma is the ideal choice for both New Build and Renovations. It is available in both a Low Temperature and a High Temperature Heat Pump option.

For New Build there is the Split Option or the Monobloc Option.

Split Option: Consists of an Outdoor Unit and an Indoor Unit. The Outdoor Unit extracts heat from the outside air and raises its temperature to a level high enough to supply heating. This heat is then transfered to the indoor unit through refrigerant pipes. The compact outdoor unit is easily installed, and no drilling or excavation work is required, it can also be installed in flats and apartments.

The Indoor Unit heats the water that circulates through low temperature radiators, floor heating systems or fan coil units and also provides domestic hot water. If you opt for the combination of heating and cooling, then the indoor unit can also decrease the water temperature to distribute a refreshing coolness.

Monobloc Outdoor Unit: All in one. In addition to Daikin Altherma indoor and outdoor unit systems, Daikin has introduced a Monobloc version in which all hydraulic parts are located within the outdoor unit. In this system the water pipes, rather than refrigerant lines, run indoors from the outdoor unit. The monobloc can be used for both heating and cooling.

Advantages of Low Temperature Heat Pumps:

Cost effective low energy consumption
Ideal system for Underfloor heating and Alurad High efficient radiators
Heating and Cooling
Eco-label for low temperature split

The Daikin High Temperature Heat Pump for Renovations consists of an indoor and outdoor unit. The outdoor unit extracts heat from the outside air and raises the temperature to a level high enough to supply heating. This heat is transferred to the indoor unit via refrigerant piping. The indoor unit then increases the temperature, allowing water temperatures up to 80 degrees Celsius for heating through traditional steel radiators and for domestic hot water use.

Advantages:

Heating up to 80 degrees Celsius without electric heater
Easy replacement of existing boiler, without changing heating pipes.
Combinable with high temperature radiators
Low energy consumption: best COP levels in its class (up to 3.08)

Daikin was the first company to obtain the Eco-label for its Daikin Altherma air-to-water heat pumps. The EU awards an Eco-label to a heat pump when its evaluation shows it to be more energy efficient than the average for heat pumps without an Eco-label. In being awarded the Eco-label, Daikin Altherma was assessed in a range of categories: heating and cooling efficiency, refrigerant global warming potential (GWP), noise, training, documentation, availability of spare parts and detailed information at point of sale.

https://www.ecoevolution.ie/air-to-water.html

12 Apr, 2010 By Mary

ELECTRIC CARS A REALITY FOR IRELAND

– Government announces €5,000 incentive for electric vehicles

– ESB to roll out 3,500 charge points and 30 fast charge points

– Renault-Nissan Alliance to provide Ireland with supply of electric cars

electric-cars-lg — Electric Cars # Photo Credit – ESB

DUBLIN (April 12, 2010), The Irish Government, the ESB and the Renault-Nissan Alliance today announced a comprehensive partnership to position Ireland as a European leader in electric transport.

Today’s Definitive Agreement includes the development of a nationwide electric car charging infrastructure by ESB, the supply of electric cars by the Renault-Nissan Alliance from 2011, as well as Government policies and incentives that will support the widespread adoption of such vehicles.

Those who purchase electric cars can avail of the €5,000 grant, which the Irish Government announced today. Irish buyers of electric vehicles will be exempt from Vehicle Registration Tax.

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources Eamon Ryan described today’s announcement as on-the-ground delivery of Government policy. “The Programme for Government announced our intention to transform the Irish energy and transport sectors. We have made great strides in renewable energy, energy efficiency and now we begin the electrification of our transport fleet.

The Irish Government’s target is for 10% of Ireland’s vehicles to be electric by 2020. Today’s Agreement with Nissan-Renault will see 2,000 cars on Irish roads by 2011. This keeps us firmly on track to achieve, if not exceed, our goals.

Those purchasing an electric vehicle will be grant aided by the Government to the tune of €5,000 and exempt from VRT. The ESB will provide the charging infrastructure in the homes of the new owners of electric cars.

Irish motorists can look forward to the cash, cars and charging points that will make the electric car the smart choice for the Irish motorist.”

Under the agreement, ESB will roll out 3,500 charge points nationwide by December 2011. The rollout has already begun in Dublin and charging points will also be installed in Cork, Galway, Waterford and Limerick. ESB also plans to install 30 fast charge points across Ireland by the end of 2011, with nine expected to be set up by the end of this year.

ESB Chief Executive Padraig McManus described today’s announcement “as another important milestone on the road to develop an emissions-free transport system.”

“ESB is currently rolling out a nationwide infrastructure to support the widespread use of electric cars. Ireland will be one of the first countries in the world to have a nationwide electric charging network which will offer opportunities for enterprise and job creation, as well as the obvious environmental benefits of ultimately having a decarbonised transport fleet” he said.

Nissan will supply its all-electric, five-seater LEAF hatchback to Ireland in early 2011 while Renault will launch its light commercial electric vehicle, Kangoo Z.E., later in the year. By the end of 2011, Renault will also supply 100 pre-production Fluence Z.E.s for a pilot project in Ireland. Fluence Z.E., an electric sedan for both private and professional use, will go on sale in Ireland in 2012.

All three vehicles will be fitted with the latest generation of lithium-ion batteries produced by Automotive Energy Supply Corporation (AESC), a joint venture between Nissan, NEC and NEC Tonkin.

Philippe Klein, executive vice president of planning and control at Renault SAS, said: “The Renault-Nissan Alliance’s commitment to the global mass marketing of electric vehicles requires the close cooperation of many partners around the world. . Thanks to Ireland’s determination to be a leader in electric mobility transport, the necessary conditions – including incentives and infrastructure – are being put in place in this country to allow for the successful adoption of electric vehicles in the near future.”

Pierre Loing, vice president of product strategy and planning of Nissan International SA and head of the company’s zero emission business unit in Europe, said: “Renault and Nissan look forward to providing Irish customers with affordable, all-electric vehicles that are built to the same high standards in terms of performance, roominess, comfort and quality that customers expect from both brands.”

ESB is designing an infrastructure that will ensure open access to all car manufacturers and all energy suppliers. Trials and pilots will be conducted by ESB to test the infrastructure and collect the data necessary to examine driving trends, usage patterns as well as the new electric car lifestyle experience.

Today’s Definitive Agreement follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed by the three parties last April to study the promotion of electric vehicles in Ireland.

“Nissan Ireland is delighted to be part of such an historic occasion for the motor industry in Ireland and Europe. We look forward to delivering a new and emission-free driving experience to Irish customers with Nissan’s electric vehicles starting with LEAF in early 2011,” said Gerard O’Toole, chairman of Nissan Ireland.

Eric Basset, managing director of Renault Ireland, said: “Due to its relatively small size, Ireland is ideally suited for the introduction of electric vehicles and as a pilot for the rest of Europe, As the population of Ireland is predominantly centered around the major urban areas of Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford, and with the average vehicle covering approximately 75 km per day, electric vehicles are ideally suited to address the every day needs of both private and business use.”

Renault and Nissan are among the leaders in development of pure electric vehicles and together have announced global production capacity of 500,000 units per year. To date, the Alliance has entered into more than 50 partnerships worldwide with countries, cities, organisations and other key stakeholders to prepare the markets and infrastructure for the successful adoption of electric vehicles around the world.

Source: http://www.dcenr.gov.ie/Press+Releases/ELECTRIC+CARS+A+REALITY+FOR+IRELAND.htm

18 Mar, 2010 By Mary

ALURAD Perfect Radiator

ALURAD radiators are available in a range of different sizes and styles to suit every application and there are a number of towel rail options also. Due to their efficiencies, ALURAD tend to be 40-50% smaller than conventional radiators and therefore you don’t need to give up a lot of wall space to the typical large white radiator. ALURAD radiators are available in a selection of heights, from 160mm to 2250mm, enabling placement in any type of room.

ALURAD is an unrivalled brand with its patented special designs, its diversified colours and models, and its accessories conforming to EU standards.

10 Superior Features of ALURAD:

Unique Aesthetics: Its perfect design occupies minimum space.
High Heat Efficiency: Its raw material and design superiority provides high heat efficiency.
Flexible dimensions: Can be produced in different sizes in line with different requirements.
Variety of colours: Adds harmony and colour to the spaces.
Comfortable heating: Its unique design provides rapid and homogeneous heat distribution.
Energy Saving: Provides energy saving due to use of less amount of water.
Resistance to pressure: It is resistant to high hydrostatic pressure and it is very reliable.
Seamless structure: Its seamless structure provides high quality and long service.
Lightweight advantage: It is easy to install.
Resistance to corrosion: It is resistant to corrosion due to pre-installed special inhibitor.

Contact us today and we will work with you on your heating and design requirements to provide you with a customised ALURAD quote.

9 Mar, 2010 By Mary

National Tree Week 2010

‘Fiche is a Deich – Cuir Crainn Arís’ ~ ‘Twenty Ten – Plant Again’

National Tree Week will take place from 7-13 March. The theme is ‘Twenty Ten – Plant Again’. We are asking people to make a renewed effort to go out and plant more trees during the week.

The aim of National Tree Week is to raise awareness about trees and encourage local communities and local authorities to participate in over 300 events which will take place around the country during the week. Events are organised all over the country which include forest walks, tree planting ceremonies, workshops, talks, competitions and even tree plantathons!

This year 15,000 trees, sponsored by Coillte will be distributed to community groups by local authorities all over the country – contact your local council for a supply of trees.

Every year a poster competition is held, this year’s winner is Fiona Cooney as student of NCAD, Thomas Street. Posters for the competition will be presented on Wednesday 3 March at Charleville Mall Public Library, North Strand by Éanna Ní Lamhna.

Despite the great advances in the past 100 years, Ireland remains one of the least wooded countries in Europe with only 10% of our land planted with trees compared to the European average of 40%. approx. This initiative will provide thousands of new jobs build our forestry industry and help improve our environment.

Why plant more trees?
• The forest industry is worth €1.65 billion annually.
• It is estimated that more than 10,000 people are employed in the industry mainly in rural Ireland.
• More than 17,000 farmers own and manage farm woodlands.
• Forests absorb carbon dioxide and give us oxygen
• The non timber benefits of forestry include bio-diversity, carbon sequestration, wood biomass energy and recreation.
• Ireland’s forests provide an opportunity to conserve bio-diversity at local and national level.
• Ireland’s forests provide a potential for wood to displace fossil fuels.
• Over 20 million visits are made annually to Irish forests.
• Over 200,000 people use forest trails for exercise.
• Trekking through forests is an important aspect of ‘Walking Tourism’ which attracts 500,000 visitors who spend €138 million annually.
• Wood is uniquely renewable among building material.

Do not despair, even if you have very little space to plant. By doing something as simple as planting one tree, you can play your part in helping the environment.

By thinking locally, we can act globally!

All Tree Week events are free and everyone is welcome to attend.

Source: http://www.treecouncil.ie/tree_council_programmes.htm#National

26 Feb, 2010 By Mary

Over 100,000 Irish homes assessed under the Building Energy Rating scheme (BER)

Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) Press Release 21 February 2010

Figures released today (21 February 2010) from Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) reveal that over 100,000 Irish homes have had Building Energy Ratings (BERs) completed to date, the majority of which were completed since January 2009, the first year for full implementation of the BER scheme. Introduced in 2007 as part of a European Directive to improve the energy performance of homes, the rate of BER publications has steadily
increased in 2009 , averaging 300 per day, and indicating an increasing awareness of, and compliance with, the legislation.

Initially the scheme only applied to new homes, but since 1 January 2009 all homes being sold or rented are also required to have a BER certificate that shows prospective buyers or tenants the energy performance of the home. Research shows that landlords are the group most aware of the need for a BER certificate, with awareness now at 76%. While awareness is improving in most quarters, tenants looking to rent are the least aware of their entitlement to get a BER cert with awareness only at 38%. Commenting on the BER programme, Minister for Communications, Energy, and Natural Resources, Eamon Ryan TD said: “The BER Scheme is a practical scheme which helps current and prospective homeowners make informed choices when selecting or upgrading a property. The success of the scheme last year shows that the energy performance and efficiency of a property is becoming increasingly important for Irish homeowners. ” Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, John Gormley TD said: “The systems now in place and the increasing consumer awareness will be important factors in the continuous improvement of the energy performance of our building stock. This will help underpin future Building Regulation changes and efforts to upgrade existing buildings. ” Professor Owen Lewis, Chief Executive SEI, said: “Putting aside the difficult economic conditions in 2009, the first year of full operation of the BER scheme has been a successful one. However, there are many homes for sale or rent out there that have not yet been assessed, and need to be, if they are not to fall foul of the regulations. SEI is calling on people who are looking to buy or rent homes to insist upon receiving a BER certificate as their right, so they are fully informed of the energy performance before finalising any property transactions. ”

Source: http://www.sei.ie/News_Events/Press_Releases/100,000_BERs_issued.html

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Category Archives: Sustainable Living