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Recycling is not just something that makes consumers feel good about being eco-friendly; it is also something that the earth requires. With limited resources, we must utilize materials to their highest potential. Plastic is a great example. Much can be done to increase the percentage rate of recycled plastics, especially when careful attention is paid to using recycled plastics in supply chain management. It is easily reused and recycled, cost-effective, light, durable and can be easily molded and modified to fit supply chain needs.

The China Effect

Until recently, the UK has relied on China to process plastic recyclables. The processing in China is now more rigorous due to world-recognition through the Beijing Olympics, increased global pressure on China to improve their human rights and news releases that exposed the poor quality plastics which were sent from the UK. This change is good in the long run as it forces the UK to review its general criteria in plastics.

The key complaint regarding any recyclable plastic is that it is contaminated, which causes higher transportation and storage costs that deal with rejected material. To bypass these challenges, the UK will need to: 1) differentiate plastic types with better control, 2) increase effective sorting of plastics, 3) improve awareness of types, amounts and quality, 4) educate supply chain members on specifics in the plastic trade, 5) and improve production runs and methods of packaging.

Milk Bottles = UK Success

While the plastic road to China may be riddled with obstacles, milk bottle recycling in the UK stands as a shining example of plastic recycling possibilities. Seventy-six percent of HDPE milk bottles were recycled in 2010, a rise from 2009′s seventy-two percent. This recycling rise is partly attributed to higher curbside collection rates. Still, the remaining percentage of unrecycled bottles does contribute to landfill costs while causing losses of up to eight million Euros in potential recyclable sales. This shows the great potential in recycling plastics at a high rate of efficacy, and that still more can be done.

What We Can Do

If we think about supply chain economics, we can apply the basic principle that products will pass through stages along the chain. The ability for products to complete the cycle equates to “closing the loop” of the chain. By closing supply chain loops, businesses can secure economic benefit while providing true social value. Closing the loop necessitates avoidance of damage or spoilage of the materials.

The different types of recyclable plastics include polyethylene terephthalate, high density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, low density polyethylene and polypropylene. These plastics are used for soft drink bottles, milk jugs, shrink wrap, trash can liners and meat trays, respectively, and numerous other uses. Currently, the infrastructure for separating these plastics can be improved. Also, many recyclable plastics are not collected at all—for instance, in 2008, only 13.2% of recyclable plastic waste was collected in the U.S.

Closing the Loop

In order to optimize recycling potential, we need to appropriately label products within their differentiated plastic categories, which requires more focused management of the recycling supply chain in every community. This will offset some of the waste which currently takes place. Also, we need to support investment in recycling in order to build infrastructures for complex recyclables like plastics. The infrastructures play a key role in separating plastics and seeing that they move along the appropriate route in the chain. With organized effort, we can ensure that most major plastics achieve a full life cycle from inception to use to re-use such that our reliance on materials coincides with our reliance on the earth.

University Alliance submitted this article on behalf of The University of San Francisco’s online program. The University of San Francisco provides all the tools and resources necessary to gain a sustainable supply chain management certification online. For further information please visit .

Article by:

Kaity Nakagoshi

Bisk Education |University of San Francisco

9417 Princess Palm Avenue Tampa, FL 33619

(866.442.6587 x7269

*E-mail Me

Rather than dispose of the Clay Roof Tiles in the local  landfill I choose to “Recycle” the roof tiles and am happy to report that they went to a good home and will be re-installed on future roofs by: “Old World Roofing Company Slate and Tile Specialists“

Mound City Clay Roof Tiles Recycled by Scotts Contracting

While I was at Old World Roofing Company and speaking with the business owner, Mr. Hagerty.  We discussed the aspects of his business that has his business backlogged with future projects into 2012.  I jumped at the opportunity to discuss and learn the various aspects that have made his business a success.  And was thrilled to learn that the things that have made his business a success are the same principles that I incorporate into my small business:

“Honesty and hard work, prompt customer service, keeping the customer informed of the progress on the job, and providing quality work!”

We also discussed the aspects that make the Clay Roofing tiles a Green and Sustainable product.  Clay Roofing Tiles-

• are traditionally made from locally available materials such as clay.

• Clay as a building material is one of the oldest building materials on Earth, among other ancient, naturally occurring geologic materials such as stone and organic materials like wood. Between one-half and two-thirds of the world’s population, in traditional societies as well as developed countries, still live or work in a building made with clay as an essential part of its load-bearing structure.re-posted from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clay#Clay_as_a_building_material

• Clay minerals are typically formed over long periods of time by the gradual chemical weathering of rocks, usually silicate-bearing, by low concentrations of carbonic acid and other diluted solvents. These solvents, usually acidic, migrate through the weathering rock after leaching through upper weathered layers. In addition to the weathering process, some clay minerals are formed by hydrothermal activity. Clay deposits may be formed in place as residual deposits in soil, but thick deposits usually are formed as the result of a secondary sedimentary deposition process after they have been eroded and transported from their original location of formation. Clay deposits are typically associated with very low energy depositional environments such as large lakes and marine deposits.re-posted from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clay

In keeping with the Title of the Article: “ Recycling is not just for Cans ” I’d also like to point out that recycling also saves:

“Landfill Space, Reducing the Energy to manufacture new products ie: Reducing Global Warming, and re-using building products in the construction industry will also save you money.” 

I encourage everyone to Re-use and Re-cycle!  If you are interested in recycling options on your next building project (St Louis Area) Scotts Contracting offers many options for recycling the building materials  and many times are tax deductible for added savings on your project.  Feel free to drop me a quick note by using the Contact form below and Scotty, Scotts Contracting will return your request asap.

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Guest Post by: Ms Sally Davison 

When it comes to sustainable home construction and renovation, fire safety should also be a concern. Preventing fires is a green practice in itself, because fires present a serious threat to the environment in terms of emitting toxic smoke and chemicals and creating hazardous debris and waste. Firefighters also have to use a considerable amount of water to fight a fire, and this water can turn into dangerous runoff containing various chemicals.

Here are some areas of green home renovation that will make your home fire-resistant.

Insulation – Spray-foam insulation uses green products, saves energy, and resists fire. It is made from agriculturally based materials like soy and doesn’t emit toxic vapors. It creates a perfect seal with no gaps in the wall, which keeps heat from leaking out and mold from growing. The materials are fire-resistant, and the  air-tight seal keeps out oxygen that could feed a fire.

Natural Lighting – The use of natural lighting such as skylights and large windows can reduce the need for electric lighting in the day time. This saves energy and reduces the risk of something catching on fire near a hot light bulb.

Appliances – Old and poorly-maintained appliances pose a significant fire risk. Appliances that use lots of heat such as stoves, dryers, and microwaves should be in good working order. You may want to consider replacing some of your appliances with Energy Star certified ones, as these will use less energy and pose less of a fire risk.

Carpeting – Normal carpet fibers can quickly ignite from just a dropped cigarette or match. However, wool carpeting is flame retardant, difficult to ignite, and has low heat-release properties. It also emits fewer toxins and is a biodegradable, renewable resource.

Windows – Windows made with heat-reflective glass can significantly reduce the amount of heat that enters the home, which saves energy. They can also reflect up to 90 percent of the heat from a raging wildfire outside the home.

Roofing – Metal roofing made from materials such as aluminum or steel are sustainable and fire-safe. These types of materials are non-combustible and will not support a fire. They will also last a lifetime. Vegetative roof systems, which have a layer of soil and vegetation on the roof, can be fire-resistant if they are watered regularly. However, a roof with dry vegetation will actually increase the fire risk for a home.

Landscaping – Just by establishing a fire-safe landscape around your home, you will create a “green belt” to protect you from outside fires like wildfires. Remove all dead trees, shrubs, and plants at least 30 feet around your home. Eliminate low-hanging branches and shrubs growing under trees. Replace highly flammable plants and trees with fire-resistant ones like succulents, hedging roses and honeysuckles, and hardwood trees. Keep your landscape well-watered, especially during the dry season.

This article was written by Sally Davison. She owns the site Fire Science Degree Sally is an experienced EMT and loves to write various articles about health and safety.

Guest Post Provided by: Scotts Contracting-St Louis Renewable Energy

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Seeking Assistance to bring this design to market.  

Please use Contact Form Below and

Scotty, Scotts Contracting will reply to your message ASAP.

Concentrated Solar Power with Heat Recovery Unit Designed by Scotts Contracting 11/01/2011

Updated Concentrated Solar Power Photovoltaic Design with Added Automatic Heat Recovery Unit for Dual Energy Savings

This is an update on the CSP (Concentrated Solar Power) design with Heat Recovery Unit for added Energy Savings.

Design Features:

• Parabolic Trough Focuses the Suns Rays onto the Receiver

• Photovoltaic Receiver creates Electricity and

• Energy via the Automatic Heat Recovery Unit

• Heat Recovery Unit incorporates an automatic air handler set by thermostat for transferring climatically controlled air movement.

Seeking Assistance to further Develop this CSP Design2.  Please use the Contact Form Below for additional info and Scotty, Scotts Contracting will reply ASAP.

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Word Press Links:Concentrated Solar Power, CSP, energy,Parabolic trough, Renewable, Solar, and Solar power

Image via Wikipedia

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Whether it is downturn of economy or people choosing to save money, many of my clients are choosing to “Repair rather than Replace” the materials used in the construction of their home or business.

If you decide that this type of DIY concrete repair is more than you can handle on your own.  Scotts Contracting is available to assist you in your project.  Fill in the form (provided below) and Scotty will respond asap to your request.

In the photos you can see:

1. How the prior concrete patch job had deteriorated and made the Concrete Steps a Safety Issue for the homeowner.
2. Quick and Easy Concrete Form for Repairing Concrete Walkway
3. Materials used to Repair / Resurface the Concrete Steps (Home Depot Products)
   

   Image via Wikipedia

• Rapid Set Cement – Multi-Purpose Construction Material

• Quikrete 1-Gallon Concrete Bonding Adhesive

• Quikrete 1 qt. Acrylic Fortifier

• Concrete Reinforcing-#4 Rebar- 1/2 in.
4. Tools needed to accomplish Concrete Step Repair
• Darby
• Hammer-Drill w/ 1/2 Concrete Bit and Flat Bit
• Concrete Floats and Edgers
• Screw Gun
• Clamps
• Wire Brush
• Buckets
• Broom/Brush

Before Photo of Concrete Step Repair

Before Walkway Repair

Photo 3)

Concrete Form for Repairing Concrete Walkway

Inexpensive Concrete Form used to repair edge of Concrete Walkway.

1) Concrete Form consisting of 2- 1×4 or 1×6 Screwed together and clamped to edge of Walkway

Photo 4)

View #2 Edge View for Concrete Form for Repairing Edge of Concrete Walkway

Edge View of Concrete poured into the Concrete Form used to repair edge of Walkway

Note: Before concrete was poured into the form it is suggested by the manufacture to:

1) Clean Area completely of any substances that will inhibit the new concretes adhesion properties.

2) After cleaning and prepping area: Apply a surface bonding agent (Concrete Glue) to the area with an old paint brush; carefully working the Adhesive into all cracks and crevices.

Photo 5)

Repaired Concrete Step

Notes:

Photo 6)

Close Up of Repaired Concrete Step

Notes: Notice how the Fast Dry Cement Patch is drying ( white areas compared to grey area )

Broom finish used for traction on the steps and the finished texture

Photo 7)

View #2 After Repair

This photo was included to point out the transition between the Step and Landing zone.  The area was filled with concrete to inhibit future seep-age of water from entering the area and further deteriorating the Foundation of the Home.

Hints and Suggestions:

1. To increase the life expectancy of this concrete patch and increase the adhesive properties.  (A)An acrylic bonding agent ____ was used in the mixture of Concrete and Water. (B) Surface Bonding Agent applied to clean surfaces before patch was installed.   The working time for the patch will be under 15 mins.  Only mix enough patch to work small areas ( 1/4 of a 5 Gal Bucket at a time )
2. When repairing steps if at all possible start at the top step and work down
3. Clean Hand Trowels often to remove adhesive from the Acrylic Agent for a smooth finish that can later be worked into the finished texture (Broom Finish or Swirl Finish)

If you decide that this type of DIY concrete repair is more than you can handle on your own.  Scotts Contracting is available to assist you in your project.  Fill in the form (provided below) and Scotty will respond asap to your request.

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Weatherizing your Building will Save $ Money $ on your Heating Costs

POll-How can I help you Save Money on your Winter-Time Heating Bills?

[contact-form]

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CAD Diagram explains how to Build and Air Tight Electrical Junction Box located in most Attics

Sealing Air Leaks

Warm air leaking into your home during the summer and out of your home during the winter and can waste a lot of your energy dollars. One of the quickest dollar-saving tasks you can do is caulk, seal, and weatherstrip all seams, cracks, and openings to the outside. You can save on your heating and cooling bill by reducing the air leaks in your home.

Hint: Use Fire Rated: 5/8″Fire Rated Drywall or Sheetrock with Fire Proof Caulking to Create the Air Tight Seal

Fire Proof /Air Tight Electrical Junction Box Cover used in Attics

Tips for Sealing Air Leaks

re-posted from:http://www.energysavers.gov/tips/insulation_sealing.cfm

How Does the Air Escape?
Air infiltrates into and out of your home through every hole and crack. About one-third of this air infiltrates through openings in your ceilings, walls, and floors.

• First, test your home for air tightness. On a windy day, carefully hold a lit incense stick or a smoke pen next to your windows, doors, electrical boxes, plumbing fixtures, electrical outlets, ceiling fixtures, attic hatches, and other locations where there is a possible air path to the outside. If the smoke stream travels horizontally, you have located an air leak that may need caulking, sealing, or weatherstripping.
• Caulk and weatherstrip doors and windows that leak air.
• Caulk and seal air leaks where plumbing, ducting, or electrical wiring penetrates through walls, floors, ceilings, and soffits over cabinets.
• Install foam gaskets behind outlet and switch plates on walls.
• Look for dirty spots in your insulation, which often indicate holes where air leaks into and out of your house. You can seal the holes with low-expansion spray foam made for this purpose.
• Look for dirty spots on your ceiling paint and carpet, which may indicate air leaks at interior wall/ceiling joints and wall/floor joists. These joints can be caulked.
• Install storm windows over single-pane windows or replace them with more efficient windows, such as double-pane. See Windows on page 18 for more information.
• When the fireplace is not in use, keep the flue damper tightly closed. A chimney is designed specifically for smoke to escape, so until you close it, warm air escapes—24 hours a day!
• For new construction, reduce exterior wall leaks by installing house wrap, taping the joints of exterior sheathing, and comprehensively caulking and sealing the exterior walls.
• Use foam sealant around larger gaps around windows, baseboards, and other places where warm air may be leaking out.
• Kitchen exhaust fan covers can keep air from leaking in when the exhaust fan is not in use. The covers typically attach via magnets for ease of replacement.
• Replacing existing door bottoms and thresholds with ones that have pliable sealing gaskets is a great way to eliminate conditioned air leaking out from underneath the doors.
• Fireplace flues are made from metal, and over time repeated heating and cooling can cause the metal to warp or break, creating a channel for hot or cold air loss. Inflatable chimney balloons are designed to fit beneath your fireplace flue during periods of non-use. They are made from several layers of durable plastic and can be removed easily and reused hundreds of times. Should you forget to remove the balloon before making a fire, the balloon will automatically deflate within seconds of coming into contact with heat.

Sources of Air Leaks in Your Home
Areas that leak air into and out of your home cost you lots of money. Check the areas listed below.

Dropped ceiling Recessed light Attic entrance Sill plates

Water and furnace flues All ducts Door frames Chimney flashing

Window frames Electrical outlets and switches Plumbing and utility access

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