Natural Microsystems

By James Nash

Carbon Offsetting involves paying an organisation to neutralise the climate impact of your own activities, thereby making those activities “carbon neutral” or “climate neutral”. Some offset schemes focus on reducing future emissions by, for example, giving out low-energy lightbulbs in the developing world or buying renewable electricity credits. Others focus on sucking CO2 directly out of the atmosphere - usually by planting trees.

The planting of trees clearly has a positive effect in the fight against global warming: the destruction of rainforests across the tropics is a significant contributor to climate change, accounting for roughly a fifth of recent human produced CO2 emissions. Tropical forests hold nearly half of the carbon present in vegetation around thew world. When they”re burned to clear land, the trees, soil and undergrowth release CO2. In addition to the CO2 from the fires, bacteria in the newly exposed soil may release more than twice the usual amount of another greenhouse gas, nitrous oxide, for at least two years. Brazil’’s National Institute for Amazon Research estimates that deforestation puts four times more carbon into the atmosphere than the nation’’s fossil-fuel burning does.

Rainforests also coll the climate on a more local level, their canopy helping to trap moisture and allow it to slowly evaporate, providing a natural air-conditioning effect. When the rainforest has been slashed and burned over large areas, hitter and dryer conditions often set in, although the exact strength of this relationship is difficult to quantify. Across eastern Brazil, where nearly 20% of the Amazon rainforest has been destroyed, 2005 saw the region’’s worst drought in a century, perhaps related to changes in the nearby Atlantic and to rain-suppressing smoke from fires as well as to the deforestation itself.

Yes, despite it being one of the more populist approaches to tackling global warming, tree-planting has also become one of the more controversial - especially in the context of carbon offsetting. It’’s true that trees soak up CO2 as they grow. Two or three dozen can be enough to absorb an entire household’’s emissions. However, at snow-prone higher altitudes, trees can actually accelerate climate change, according to a 2006 study led by Govindasamy Bala of the US Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. That’’s because their CO2 absorbing benefit is outweighed by the impact of their dark colour, which in wintertime absorbs sunlight that might otherwise be reflected to space by bright snow cover atop barren ground.

In snow-free warmer climates, and especially in the tropics and subtropics, the dark colour of trees isn”t a problem. But there are other catches. First, when a tree dies, much of its stored carbon returns to the atmosphere. So the offset will only be permanent if each tree planted is replaced by another - and so on. Second, there are quicker, cheaper and longer lasting ways to fight climate change, such as distributing low-energy technologies to displace fossil fuels.

For all these reasons, many offset schemes have switched from tree-planting to energy-saving. That said, unless you live in a snowy region, planting a few trees in your garden is still unlikely to be beneficial for the climate - at least for the crucial coming decades.

A separate, and altogether more pressing, approach is protecting the forests that are already standing. That’’s not so much because of the CO2 that mature forests absorb. It’’s because deforestation, and in particular the destruction of tropical rainforests, is one of the very largest sources of greenhouse emissions.

About The Author

James Nash is a climate scientist with Greatest Planet. Greatest Planet is a non-profit environmental organization specialising in carbon offset investments. Greatest Planet’’s website can be found at http://www.greatestplanet.org

James Nash is solely responsible for the contents of this article.

By Bill Williams

If you are trying to save money on a water-fuel conversion or thinking about helping the environment with cleaner gas emissions from your vehicle your water-to-fuel conversion system will do both. However the benefits don”t end there; by converting your vehicle to run with a water additive ( the water is a supplement to the petrol/diesel fuel of the car), you are actually cleaning the engine out and in doing so enabling your car to run smoother.

It is 100 years ago this year that Henry Ford rolled the first Model T Ford off the production line in America, since then the car has been a part of our daily lives , with solid tyres giving way to pressurized ones, motorised wipers replacing hand held sliding ones, heaters radios and CD players now standard for entertainment, sat nav and speed-radar detectors as driver options and safety features such as safety belts and airbags are now compulsory. Car makers say they are forever looking for more lightweight materials to install, windtunnels to test bodystyling for reduced airdrag, in fact any method they can to modernise and improve new cars which they can sell in their showrooms.

Car makers are rather more secretive about keeping us informed of some of the “extras” that are under the bodyshell of the car. By law every vehicle should have a catalyctic converter fitted. Firstly, what is a catalyctic convertor, a “cat” is designed to burn or reduce the carbon gas emissions and unburned fuel in the exhaust system, it is a fact that it is not successful in doing this, therefore overall it has to be taken as a clear admission of resulting poor engine design. When you couple it with the deficiences of the E.M.S. ( engine management system), a computerized fuel control system which is programmed to PREVENT any permanent improved m.p.g. this system is partially controlled by a sensor fitted in front of the catalyctic convertor that can adjust the air-to-fuel ratio which affects the fuel consumtion. See what I mean.

In a nutshell while all technology has advanced during the last 100 years the car makers have succeeded in keeping the m.p.g .of cars to a level that they are happy with, as it is in their industries interest to keep the oil flowing to the refineries and on to the petrol station and finally the vehicle via the pumps.

Today we have sky high fuel prices and global warming partly caused by carbon gas emissions from cars which is a huge danger to the environment. Each of these problems can be overcome with a water-fuel conversion system which will lower gas emissions resulting in a cleaner air environment and smoother engine running thus helping to reduce global warming and also increase your cars m.p.g. to save you loads of money and its available NOW

About The Author

Bill is now retired but as a keen motorist has driven on most continents of the world and has a keen interest in environmental issues, these account for only a couple of his many varied interests.For further info on the Water4gas fuel conversion system please visit..http://www.the-car-hub.co.uk/

By Rodrigo Pocius

Ethanol fuel is already here. Ethanol provides a viable alternative to rising Gasoline prices. In the U.S., ethanol is currently mixed with the Gasoline at the pump, offering higher octane value and a renewable supplement to Gas.

Currently, the automobile industry is producing vehicles capable of burning a product known as ”E85” which is a mixture of 85% Ethanol and Gasoline. The ability to burn 100% Ethanol is not far off, and there are many kits available online which claim to convert any Gas engine to burn pure Ethanol as well. Take caution, however, and refer to your automotive policies before converting as conversion could void your particular warranty.

Ethanol is a renewable fuel, which can be made from various feed stocks of plant matter. Current Ethanol production relies on Sugar cane and Corn stocks. The use of Corn has it’’s controversies, primarily concerned about the impact on Corn based ethanol on food supply. Admittedly, this is an area of concern, and other non-food sources should be considered..

In Brazil, Ethanol makes up a large chunk of the Fuel Economy and it’’s large Sugar Industry is making Brazil a major supplier of Global Ethanol.

Getting ready for Ethanol

Ethanol can be produced at home with the right materials, and there already exists many home-brewing kits for sale online. It is also encouraged by the Government with special cash incentives and tax breaks.

There is a company called ”E-fuel”, and they are currently taking orders for a unique system which can be placed in the back-yard and produces Ethanol. Known as the ”Micro-Fueler”, it is the size of 2 washing machines, comes with a station style hand pump, and can produce Ethanol at about $1.25/ Gallon when taking into account various sources of base materials and Government incentives. This system will produce ethanol from sugar and can also make Ethanol from waste alcohol. The machine can produce about 5 gallons of Ethanol a day. The company is currently accepting orders and expects shipments by the fourth quarter of 2008.

Current Ethanol Use

Currently, the ethanol formula in wide use in the United States is called ”E-10”, which is a mixture of 10% Ethanol and 90% Gasoline. This mixture produces less C02 emissions, but more can be done. With car manufacturers making new technologies available and cars being designed to burn E-85 mixture, we are looking at a future getting closer to a goal- E-100.

Future of Ethanol

Using Ethanol fuel is a wise choice now and for the future. Ethanol can be produced cheap and in large quantities. Granted, more work is needed by auto industry to make vehicles attain higher miles per gallon, but action is also required by the individual. Ethanol offers a solution that the homeowner can also invest in, thus allowing people access to their own renewable source of Ethanol. Government incentives are already in place to encourage the switch. Action combined on all these fronts will go a long way to lowering prices of oil due to decreased demand.

Food supply issues should be considered in ethanol use. There are solutions which do not affect food supply and more investment is needed. Ethanol is easy to make. It is made from sugar, and the planet offers many renewable sources for Ethanol production.

We need to pursue a ”green” future, and Ethanol is one step in the right direction.

About The Author

The time is now to act. Rising fuel prices demand a change in the status quo. You can learn more about alternative fuels and sources of energy at http://www.thenextfuels.com

By Moe Tamani

Tanzania is situated in East Africa, and its economy runs primarily on tourism. It is a country of geographical extremes like the highest point being the Mount Kilimanjaro peak and the lowest point being the lake bed in Lake Tanganyika.

It also shares a part of Lake Victoria, which is the largest lake on the continent. But Tanzania has much more to offer than this and one such place is the Serengeti. The Serengeti is a national park and a haven for animal lovers as you can spot the big 5′’s of Africa and the fastest animal on the plant: the Cheetah.

Why Volunteer In Tanzania
Although tourism is good in Tanzania but it is still stricken with poverty and children often die in the formative years due to malnutrition, AIDS and other diseases. A beautiful country, Tanzania needs help from volunteers to preserve their wildlife, which also seems to be depleting due to extensive poaching.

As a volunteer in Tanzania, you will be able to get close to the heart of Tanzania, their people and their lives. You will be able to get access to some of the most spectacular landscapes from Mount Kilimanjaro to the wide grassy savannahs that teem with wildlife, and above all, you will be able to know more about the Masaai woman and the tribe.

Types Of Projects Available
As a part of volunteering in Tanzania, you will get to choose the kind of project you are interested in. The different types if projects available include:

- Cultural Experience: As a volunteer in Tanzania, you can be a part of the culture of the country and take back with you immeasurable cultural experiences. As a part of this project, you will be able to speak with the local people, mingle with them and collect data for enabling research on the Tanzania people and society.

- Internships: There are different types of internships available in Tanzania, which can vary from medical training to community trainings and are normally of a longer duration than most of the other programs. The internship programs can be from 9 weeks to a year depending on the nature of the project.

- Soccer coaching: Soccer is the new craze in Tanzania and they have been preparing for the FIFA world cup for a long time. In fact soccer is the chosen sport in most of the urban and rural schools. So if you are a soccer player or have played the game at any level then you can volunteer for this specific program. It will be grueling as well as fun and present a new way of looking at the younger generation of Tanzania.

- Teaching in schools: Most of the Tanzania teaching programs are for schools situated in the rural areas. As a volunteer in Tanzania, you can teach different subjects in rural schools from English to mathematics, science, economics and others. Most of the rural schools don”t have proper building structure and lack educational infrastructure. As a volunteer, you can assist the existing teaching staff and also teach.

- Women’’s development: There is a lot of work going on in Tanzania to uplift the status of the Masai women. The Masai tribe is the original people of Tanzania but they have been left out for a long time. As a volunteer, you can impart your experience and teaching and help in strengthening the Masai women for the future.

- Cheetah Conservation: Cheetah is the fastest mammal on earth and exists only in the African wilderness. There are some interesting Cheetah conservation projects for which you can volunteer. Cheetah’’s are almost on the brink of extinction and these conservation projects help with the breeding in wild and captivity for cheetahs and also take care of educating the African farmers so that they don”t end up killing any more of this beautiful animal.

Volunteer in Tanzania Requirements
Age: The minimum age for volunteering in Tanzania should be 16 or older.
Duration: The duration of the projects can vary from 4-12 weeks depending on the nature of volunteer activity

Volunteer in Tanzania-Fee and Other details:
There is a fee attached to each of the projects that you volunteer for. The fee is charged in advance and is charged for the following:

1. Accommodation
2. Food/meals
3. Transportation within the region
4. All types of training material

Conclusion
Volunteering in Tanzania is an opportunity that can”t be missed because Tanzania needs us and we can”t let them down.

About The Author

Moe Tamani is a copywriter for:
http://www.globalcrossroad.com
http://www.ifrevolunteers.org
http://www.seo-services-expert.com

By James Monahan

Because humans are losing too much of the natural, it is time to change the way people think about preservation. Stop thinking about what it would benefit the human race if this sea life is protected. To preserve the sea life, you should know the value of nature and all of its aspects without thinking of your own interests. Since people have been brought up to the belief that every living thing has the birthright to exist in this environment, sea life should be preserved. And this will start as soon as you give a little extra effort for this cause.

Are you ready to participate in achieving a better conservation of the sea environmental life? Are you ready to spread information and educate other people about the dangers and harm humans cause the sea life?

Since majority of the oceans have been devastated by development and industry in the past century, it is never too late to start now. By following these 6 simple steps, you could make a change.

1. Learn to manage skills. Because two minds is better than one, recruit people that would support you in your preservation of sea life. Each person has a unique skill that could be made of use. Learn to use these skills for the common good.
2. Learn to make finances out of nothing. Because non-profitable programs do not have funds to get money from, learn to collect these funds on your own. After receiving the money, be able to manage it and circulate the finances for programs and other events.
3. Learn to plan strategically. Although your group is working for a cause, it wouldn”t harm you to plan the preservation of sea life in an organized manner. The vital key in supporting your program is by maintaining the sufficient financial matters and by producing a long-term plan for your group.
4. Learn to inform correctly. For people to be aware on the conditions of the coral reef, the endangered species of the sea life, the laws regarding fishing, and many other issues on the preservation of sea life, be ready to educate the people. Research and educate the people about the basics of sea life conservation and simple techniques that minimize harm to fish when engaging in catch-and-release angling. To lessen uninformed people, educate them on the correct disposal of wastes on seas, keeping the seawater pollution-free, and exercise ethical behavior in using aquatic resources. Be a role model and this may even cause people to start aiding for the preservation of sea life.
5. Learn to handle markets. To be able to catch your target attention, learn to deal with great advertising. Produce fliers, banners and posters that would attract people to read and be interested. Organize and implement a seminar on the dangers the sea life is currently experiencing due to human’’s waste. Make a fund-raising to support other organizations which specifies on sea life preservation.
6. Learn to weigh impacts. After analyzing which programs about sea life preservation you would include and after education people with fliers, posters and much needed information, you must learn to weigh for impacts. You must be sensitive enough to know whether or not your program is having an effect on the environment or on the people.

Don’t hesitate to act for a change. Anyone could help preserve the sea life. You could save the planet.

About The Author

James Monahan is the owner and Senior Editor of http://www.SealifeSearch.com and writes expert articles about sealife.