Energy efficient refrigerators

A corollary to life cycle analysis is life cycle cost analysis. Not only must all of the impinging factors on product or component life be considered, but also a reasonable assessment must be made of the immediate, short-term, long-term and sometimes hidden costs of that life. It is quite possible that a prohibitive disposal cost at the end of service life may make the calculus of low initial cost or efficiency untenable (think asbestos, for example).

Our culture is a "catch phrase" culture. Words like sustainability make great sound bites. This cultural phenomenon is annoying but before we allow ourselves to be annoyed lets think about this idea. It has often been pointed out that the corporate world is under so much pressure to make the next quarter's earnings report look good, that it is difficult to make short term sacrifices for long term benefits. We can all agree that this is unhealthy.

Next on our list is energy efficiency. As kitchens house more power-sucking appliances than almost any other room in the home, we would be wise to seek the most energy efficient refrigerators, ranges, ovens, dishwashers, microwaves, grilles, etc. that we can find. Look to daylighting to supplement or replace powered lighting wherever possible, and consider lighter surfaces and finishes that reflect and enhance available light. Well-placed and well-designed lighting fixtures employing efficient bulbs, dimmers and occupancy sensors can greatly improve overall energy efficiency. It may also help to zone lighting, so that not all lights have to remain on at the same time.

As anyone who has traveled through humid climate can attest, air can hold a lot of moisture (or water vapor), especially warm air. water molecules carried on moving air can thus get a ‘free ride’ into a building’s interior. It is estimated that more than 95% of all moisture that penetrates most buildings is carried within on free-moving air. That is why the best slogan for preventing water intrusion is “build it tight, ventilate right.”

"Though somewhat counterintuitive, you come to realize that you actually get people more focused using telepresence than in a normal meeting because the technology makes you more self-aware than an in-person meeting," said Rodgers. "And, you can read the room as well or better than in a live meeting: You become more aware of a fidget, a furrowed brow or even the sneak peek at the BlackBerry. Once we got past the guilt feeling like we should have been on a plane going to see the client, we couldn't imagine having had to do it any other way."