Author: Sean Si

Climate change is one of the alarming situations the Earth is facing. The country has been experiencing various effects of climate change, such as floods, droughts, stronger typhoons, and rising of the sea level that directly affects the environment and the economy.

Fortunately, several establishments and households are now embracing the sustainable lifestyle, especially through the use of solar energy since there are many reasonable prices of solar panels in the Philippines. Solar energy has been one of the most popular and fastest-growing sources of renewable energy not only in the country but in different parts of the world as well. Apart from the solar energy, there are other forms of renewable energy that can be used as an alternative source of electricity. Read on and let’s take a look at the different types of renewable energy.

 

Biomass Energy

Biomass energy is one of the most used renewable energies in the world. Biomass refers to the use of organic materials and converting them into their other forms that can be used as energy. One of the largest sources of biomass energy is wood and other forest residues, such as branches, dead trees, and tree stumps. The burning of woods has been the oldest form of biomass, however, there are newer methods that do not produce carbon dioxide. With this, utilizing biomass energy is definitely clean and reduces the carbon dioxide emission. Moreover, sustainably grown biomass can produce up to four times the global electricity needed by 2050.

 

Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy is a thermal energy gathered from the heat found underneath the Earth’s surface, commonly from hot springs, magma conduits, and hydrothermal circulation. Geothermal hot water is often used to dry out fish and crops, heat buildings, and raise plants in greenhouses.

In the Philippines, Leyte is one of the provinces that produced geothermal energy. There are also geothermal power plants in Luzon, Negros, and Mindanao. With this, geothermal energy provides the country with almost 27% of its total electricity production.

 

Hydrogen Energy

Water is about 800 times heavier than the air, making it capable of producing considerable amounts of energy. There are many forms of water energy, such as hydroelectric power, small hydro systems, and run-of-the-river hydroelectricity.

 

Wind Energy

Did you know that wind technology can provide 9% of global electricity by 2030? Wind energy is a clean and non-polluting source of electricity. It uses a wind turbine, a device that can convert the wind’s kinetic energy into electrical power. Wind turbines rotate either by horizontally or vertically and typically place in areas with higher wind resources, such as offshore. Bangui Wind Farm and Burgos Wind Farm in Ilocos Norte are some of the big developments of wind energy in the Philippines.

 

Over the years, people have relied almost entirely on coal and natural gases for energy. Today, there are many alternatives in which we can get electricity. In fact, our country has several possibilities of getting clean yet cheap energy. Good thing, various environmental organizations and even the government are utilizing such possibilities to finally switch to the sustainable lifestyle and make the world a better place to live in.

 

 

Solar panels in the Philippines can be now seen on the roofs of various establishments, farms, and even households. Another popular trend are green roofs, wherein grass and plants are grown on the rooftops. Green roofs typically consist of a waterproofing membrane, growing soil, and plants. These have become a trend among architects and urban planners due to the various benefits it brings to both private and public sectors.

Just how good are they for the environment and for the people in and out of the establishment? Let’s consider the benefits they bring.

 

Decreases outside Noise

A green roof system can serve as a sound barrier against the exterior noises. It provides good sound insulation, minimizing the outside noise coming in and the inside noise getting out. This is especially useful if the house or building is located in an urban area. 0041 green roof can reduce eight decibels of outside noise compared to the traditional roof.

 

Energy Efficient

Since green roofs provide great insulation, it can reduce the needed amount of energy to cool down the living space. It can help in the reduction of energy consumption significantly during summer, when we tend to turn up the a/c just to stay cool.

 

However, the outcome may vary depending on the climate condition, thickness of the insulation, and type of the building or construction.

 

Improved the Quality of Air

The plants on green roofs clean the air by capturing the airborne pollutants and atmospheric deposition. A green rooftop can also filter the noxious gases, which are harmful to all living things. It also helps in reducing the hazardous waste in the air we breathe in.

 

Increases Solar Panel’s Efficiency

The efficiency of solar panels will increase since green roofs can help them in absorbing the heat easily, thus, making them more effective.

 

Reduction of Carbon Dioxide

Carbon Dioxide is one of the major causes of global warming. By creating a green roof, you reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the air. Moreover, every year, 1m2 of a green roof can absorb for about five kilograms of carbon dioxide.

 

Storm water Management

One of the major benefits of green roof technology is its ability to manage the rainwater. A green space can absorb up to 80% of rainwater, thus, reducing the chance of flooding. It also decreases the storm water runoff that flows to the gutter and sewer, thus, reducing the stress on sewer system and peak flow period. Moreover, the storm water becomes

 

Opportunities for Urban Agriculture

Urban agriculture is known to contribute in community building, food security, and economic development. Creating a green roof can create more opportunities for urban agriculture. Utilizing your roof as a farm or garden can be a solution in reducing your community’s carbon footprint when creating a local food system.

 

Are green roofs really good for you? Definitely yes! Planting your rooftops definitely brings many benefits to private, public, social, and economic sectors. Join the green movement, turn your house into a green home, and consider a green roof!

 

Solar panels in the Philippines have greatly contributed to the green movement. If you are among those who have begun using solar panels in their home, CONGRATULATIONS! You’re doing the world a great service. If you’re not, it’s not too late to get those solar panels!

There are many other ways you can reduce your carbon footprint. You could get your hands on these really cool solar-powered gadgets, find alternatives for certain household appliances, and/or start doing the following sustainable DIY projects at your home.

 

Composting

Composting is a method of using decayed organic material as a plant fertilizer, which will help in decreasing the landfill waste. It is a practical way to save the environment and save money as well since you do not need to buy artificial fertilizers for your plants. Follow the instructions below to help you achieve your composting goals!

 

1. First, distinguish what are the possible kitchen scraps that can be composted. Scraps, such as fruit and vegetable peelings, egg shells, coffee grounds, and grass clippings are efficient soil enhancers. Processed foods, dairy, and meat are not appropriate for composting.
2. Before putting in the composting pile, make sure that the things you will compost are small and shredded.
3. You can keep your composting pile inside your kitchen. By this, you can fill it right away with scraps every after meal. Take it outside if it is already full.
4. Every now and then, slightly add water to your compost pile to maintain its moisture.
5. Also, make sure that your compost pile is on even level so that it will drain properly.
6. Maintain an even amount of green and brown scraps in your compost pile. Both types of compost are essential in maintaining the nutrients of your compost pile. The green compost provides nitrogen while the brown scraps gives carbon to the compost pile.
7. Avoid including grass clippings or leaves that have been treated with pesticides and other chemicals into your compost pile.

 

DIY Household Cleaners

Reduce your exposure to various chemicals by using your own household cleaners. Majority of the ingredients in making such cleaners can be found in your pantry. Ditch the chemical products and start using natural household cleaners instead!

 

Air Freshener

Mix baking soda and vinegar will help reduce the foul odor around the house.  You can also use coffee grounds to keep your kitchen counter fresh.

Carpet Stain Remover

In a spray bottle, mix an even amount of water and white vinegar. Spray the mixture directly into the carpet. Leave it for about 15 to 20 minutes. Then, clean it with a brush and soapy water.

Deodorizer

To deodorize your food containers and storage, soak them in baking soda and warm water. Leave it overnight. To deodorize an in-sink garbage disposal unit, grind up an orange peel or lemon in it.

Oil and Grease Spot Remover

Use baking soda and wet brush when cleaning stains on the floors or walls in your house. Mix 3 to 4 tablespoons of baking and 1 cup of water.

Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Mix 1 cup of vinegar and ¼ cup of baking soda. Pour the mixture into a basin and leave it for few minutes. Then, brush the toilet bowl using the mixture and rinse off.

Window Cleaner

Mix 1 liter of water and 2 teaspoons of white vinegar. Use a cotton cloth when applying the mixture into the window glass.

 

The renewable energy industry in the country has recorded an incredible growth in the last few years, evidenced by the availability of affordable prices of solar panels in the Philippines. There has also been an increase in the number of solar farms in the country.

Did you know that Philippines can receive an average of 5.1 KWh per square meter per day? Because the country lies near the equator, solar energy resources in the Philippines are significantly large. With the given high amount of sunlight, utilizing solar energy would not be difficult for both public and private purposes.

Many Filipinos may not realize it but the country already has several milestones with regards to the use of solar energy.

 

2014

In 2014, SM North Edsa (Quezon City) became the world’s largest solar-powered mall. This gigantic mall has 5,760 solar panels and 60 inverters outfitted on its parking building, enough power to energize 1000 households. The 1.5-MW plant’s capacity is expected to operate for the next 25 years and predictable to offset an approximated 40,000 tons of carbon dioxide emission, which is about equivalent to planting 200,000 trees.

Manuel L. Quezon University (Quiapo, Manila) also begun using solar power by installing 320 solar panels on its rooftop. The solar panels can produce about 96 kilowatts of electricity. The solar project can lower the school’s electricity consumption by 20% for its continuous operation. Moreover, MLQU is the Manila’s first solar-powered university.

 

2015

Currently, Robinsons Palawan runs its elevators, escalators, and light fixtures with the 4,710 solar panels installed on its rooftop. The solar panels can cover about 20% of the mall’s electricity consumption. Apart from its Palawan branch, Robinsons will also set up solar panels on three of its branches in Visayas.

 

2016

The Calatagan Solar Farm has been starting to generate power last March 2016. The solar farm is a 63.3 MW solar power plant located in Calatagan, Batangas. It has 200,000 panels and has a 160 hectares (500 acres) land area. Instead of being used for growing crops such as corn or rice, the land was converted to a large solar farm to generate enough energy to provide power to the whole western Batangas. With continuous operation (over three decades), the solar farm is expected to offset beyond 1 million tons of carbon dioxide emission. This is equivalent to planting over 5 million trees! Calatagan Solar Farm is considered to be the largest solar facility in the country to date.

On March 2016, 3 more solar power plants have begun to be operational. These are the 135-MW solar power plant in Negros Occidental, 50-MW solar project in Tarlac, and 29-MW solar project in Davao. This will add 214 MW to the country’s electrical supply.

 

Solar energy and other renewable energy projects have been around for many years. Fortunately, many households and establishments are embracing the green revolution by using various renewable resources, such as solar energy.

 

Increasing the usage of solar panels in the Philippines is well and good, but that’s only the beginning. There are even more adjustments you can make in your home that could decrease excessive use of energy and decrease the rate of global warming. Join the green movement and start building a green home by following the practical tips below.

 

For the Living Room

 

• Big Windows in your living room and other parts of the house will increase the insulation and optimize sunlight throughout the room. It will also lessen the use of light and electric fans or air-conditioning.
• Replace Bulbs with compact fluorescent light (CFL) bulbs and light-emitting diode (LED) to save up to 66% more energy. Switching to such types of bulbs will reduce the greenhouse gas emissions of your house by 400 pounds.
• Unplug home appliances, such as TV and computer when they are not in use.
• Power Strips are great for plugging groups of home appliances and gadgets. It reduces power usage AND makes it easy for you to unplug several electronics at once.

 

In the Bedroom

• Grow houseplants to improve the quality of air in your bedroom. In some cases this can also lessen your usage of electric fans or air conditioner.
• Don’t overcharge your mobile phones, tablets, and other gadgets. You should particularly avoid charging your gadgets before going to sleep as this will uses up more energy. You may want to start using solar-powered gadgets as well.
• Use a ceiling fan instead of the regular electric fan. A ceiling fan uses only 2% of the energy compared to its standing counterpart.

 

In the Bathroom

• Turn off the tap when you are brushing your teeth or applying facial wash, et c.
• Inspect for possible leaks, as leakage in your tap can waste up to 182 liters of water every year. Regularly inspect your faucet and all other plumbing to ensure that it is free from any leakage.

 

In the Kitchen

• Switch to non-toxic cleaning products and ditch your regular cleaning products. Kitchen ingredients, such as baking soda and lemon are some of the natural cleaners you can use.
• Compost kitchen scraps as this could serve as your instant organic fertilizer. You will also reduce the amount of solid waste sent to the landfill.
• Avoid Plastic Containers when buying your toiletries or kitchen condiments. Instead, opt for glass containers, as you can reuse the glass containers afterwards.

 

In the Laundry Area

• Hang clothes to dry instead of using the dryer, which could produce 2 to 3 kilograms of carbon emissions. Hang your clothes on a clothesline instead to reduce the carbon emissions and save energy at the same time.
• Use cold water for washing clothes (unless hot water is necessary) as heating water can use up as much 85% to 90% of energy.

 

 

These are practical tips and sustainable habits you and your family can apply in your own home. Start doing the simple tips mentioned above and you’ll know you’re doing your part in making our environment a better place to live in. After all, the environment is everyone’s responsibility.