Monday, November 7, 2011

New Florida Nutrient Propsed Rules

“If adopted, these rules will be the most comprehensive nutrient pollution limitations in the nation, and will serve to protect our rivers, lakes, streams, springs and estuaries,’’ DEP Secretary Herschel Vinyard said.
“The proposed rule reflects significant progress in protecting the state’s critical aquatic resources and we are hopeful that it will be fully enacted without modification,’’ said EPA regional administrator Gwendolyn Keyes Fleming.
But environmentalists accused both agencies of “capitulating’’ to powerful industries and political pressure from both parties in Washington and Tallahassee in crafting rules they charge already contain too many loopholes.

Read more: http://www.miamiherald.com/2011/11/02/2484522/environmentalists-cry-foul-on.html#ixzz1d1quK6GS

Friday, November 4, 2011

Chattanooga' Second LEED Fire Station

Check out Chattanooga's second LEED Gold Fire Station.
Below are some of the Green features of Station 4:

Energy conservation measures include: ultra-efficient mechanical systems, appliances and lighting, heat reflective roofing, natural light and occupancy sensors

Energy efficient measures should equate to a 23 percent savings in utility costs compared to a standard fire station

Water conservation measures include the use of dual flush toilets, low flow faucets, and pint flush urinals. Consumption of potable water was reduced by 47 percent below standard fixtures. Two bioswales and a landscape swale were installed to retain the rainwater. Even the run-off from the truck washing area is channeled into the bioswale.

A cistern is used to capture rainwater from the roof and then pumped to a spigot for the purpose of washing the fire trucks. Using this system is estimated to save more than 14,000 gallons of water each year.

All interior finishes and cabinetry have little-to-no volatile organic compound (VOC) content

Landscaped with native trees and plants to reduce watering needs

The roof has a highly reflective surface and insulation was added to reach a total R value of 30.

http://www.chattanoogan.com/articles/article_212672.asp