Did you know that only three percent of dams in the United States create electricity? What a waste. I heard this factoid a few months ago and was curious if anyone was trying to capture all that unused power. Yesterday a story I wrote on the subject was published at Ecomagination. [...]
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In August 2011, I visited New York City in search of its most interesting and attractive green roofs. Here are the best in one entertaining video slideshow. Based on research and visits, I believe the five sites captured here represent the best green roofs in New York, and by “best” I mean I the most unique, diverse and beautiful. If there is a fabulous planted roof in New York that I missed, or another unforgettable spot elsewhere in the country that deserves attention, please let me know in the comments. [...] Geothermal energy — or drilling down to trap the earth’s internal heat — is an exciting source of clean power because it exists everywhere and could supply a steady and reliable source of energy. But what does it look like, that power under our feet? In order to create the idea behind the infographic for the latest “Innovate” column in Sierra magazine, I had to dig down and find my inner sketchist. [...] While in South India last month I had the chance to visit the charming offices of the Centre for Wind Energy Technology, the Indian government’s brain trust on wind power. [...] A thought experiment to help an American understand what it would be like to be an Indian, in terms of the energy we use. [...] Vortex induced vibration is a terrifically destructive force that that has just recently been tapped as a source of renewable energy, in the form of the VIVACE converter. One day this new type of generator might electrify entire cities. But the phenomenon of vortex induced vibration has intrigued and bedeviled engineers since the days of Leonardo da Vinci. [...] My latest “Innovate” column explores the mysteries of gathering electricity from the tides. [...] BP axes Tony Hayward, McDonald’s cooks up some localwashing, NASA gives us a pop quiz…. and more of the latest sustainability news. [...] On Wednesday I have an interview at the Pentagon with Jackalyne Pfannenstiel, who is in charge of a hugely ambitious program to green the Navy. What should I ask her? [...] It is July in Washington D.C., and my new lawn is scorching to death. Watering it seems unfair because the problem isn’t a lack of water: the problem is that the water is in the wrong place. The air has a lavish, abundant 86 percent water content that makes sweat burst from my brow when I open the door to get the mail. It just refuses to fall on my lawn. [...] |
 David Ferris is managing editor of the Matter Network. As journalist and columnist, he explores the role of business and technology in making our world more sustainable. Learn more. |
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