If we want our children and grandchildren and our great grandchildren to still be able to enjoy nature and breathe comfortably, we need to start acting NOW. Some people have been embracing the greener lifestyle by integrating green technology at their home. Others reduce their carbon footprint by choosing to walk or commute instead of bringing their vehicles to work every day. The use of solar energy is now more feasible thanks toprice of solar panels. In the Philippines, many cities now are adapting different green practices to achieve a sustainable lifestyle.

As a citizen of the world, how can you live sustainably? Here are a few ideas to help you get started.

 

Create an Efficient Waste Management System

According to the studies conducted by the National Solid Waste Management Commission, a single person in the Metro Manila can produce for about 0.5 kilogram of waste daily. This would generate 4,762,720 kilogram of trash daily if it is multiplied with 10.5 million people living in the metro. Because of this, solid waste is becoming one of the worst problems not only in the Metro Manila but in the surrounding areas as well..

Creating an efficient waste management system would be the best way to prevent this growing problem from getting any worse. Start by sorting your trash into organic waste, biodegradable, non-biodegradable, and residual trash. Homeowners like you are also encouraged to practice the 3 R’s at your home. These 3 R’s are reduce, reuse, and recycle. This significantly reduces the amount of trash thrown in the landfill. Simple habits such as reducing your consumption of certain goods, reusing shopping bags, recycling bottles and jars, and repurposing old containers are quick steps to start living a sustainable life.

 

Consume Organic Food

Opting for organic food is not only beneficial for your health but for the environment as well. The production of organic food keeps both animals and plants healthy since there are no toxic chemicals involved in producing such kind of food. Moreover, this also helps the environment as no pollution and topsoil erosion occur when producing organic food. If the thought of giving up certain foods already makes you want to skip this part, don’t fret. You can simply substitute at least some of your meals daily instead of going cold turkey.

 

Opt for Alternative Energy

Our country has various sources of clean alternative energy. These alternative energies may come in the form of geothermal, hydrogen, solar, and wind energy. Using alternative energy helps reduce the cause of climate change and people’s dependence on the fossil fuels, which contribute to acid rain and formation of various harmful matters.

If you choose to use the traditional source of energy, you can still make a difference by utilizing appliances that consume less energy. Examples are dryers and washing machines that can run on LPG and inverter-type of air conditioners. Switching to LED and CFC bulb light also help reduce your energy consumption.

 

Create a Water Management Plan

Just like in solid waste management, water management should also be practiced at every person’s house. Things you can implement on your household are:

• Taking shorter showers.
• When brushing your teeth, use a glass of water instead of letting the water run from the faucet.
• Have a regular check-up of all the faucets and toilets at your home. Leaky faucets and toilets can waste up to 182 liters of water every day.
• If possible, install a grey water system. It is a tank that collects rainwater and used water from drains.

 

Going green is quite challenging, however, it does not have to be difficult. With careful and organized planning, going green can be just any normal routine.

The availability of affordable prices of solar panels in the Philippines makes it easier for people to make the decision of trying it out. If you are one of these people, congrats!

However, making the purchase is only the beginning. You need to correctly install it at your roof and maintain its performance by cleaning it regularly. Here’s a quick guide to cleaning and maintaining your solar panels.

 

Cleaning Hacks for Solar Panels

 

Purchase solar panels cleaning kit

The process of cleaning solar panels is not the same as cleaning other home furniture. You’ll need to use a specific cleaning kit for these things! The kit should contain liquid soap, a wiper, and different size of brushes (some may come with longer handles.) If the need is urgent and you know what you’re doing, then car cleaning tools may do.

Combine the liquid soap with water

Mix the liquid soap and water in a bucket. Refer to the liquid soap’s label on the amount that you need to mix in with water.

Soak the brush into the mixture and rub it on the solar panels

Dip the brush into the mixture so it absorbs the soap. Rub this gently on the solar panels. If your solar panels have smaller arrangements, use smaller brushes. If you have a larger one, use brushes with longer handle.

Wipe the solar panels

Once done brushing the solar panels, use the wiper to get rid of the excess liquid. Doing this will prevent the soap from drying on the solar panels, which can block the amount of the sunlight that it can absorb.

Don’t use harsh cleaners

Do not use cleaning supplies other than the recommended solar panel cleaning tools. Abrasive scrubbers and pressure washers can damage your solar panels.

Hire a professional solar panel cleaner

If in any case that you can’t clean all the areas of the solar panels or are unsure of how to go about it, you can seek the help of a professional team. You may also contact your solar panel company to ask if they offer cleaning services. This is the safest bet as you can be sure they can handle your solar panels properly and safely.

 

Maintain and Monitor the Performance of your Solar Panels

 

Install a monitoring system

A monitoring system keeps you regularly on the loop regarding the performance of your solar panels. The monitoring system can alert you if there are any areas of the solar panel system in need of repair.

Log the solar panel’s everyday performance

Develop the habit of regularly checking the performance of your solar panels. Every day, list down what the solar panel system has produced.

 

One of the many advantages of solar panels is its durability. Typically, a solar panel system has a 20-year warranty and can last up to 40 years. Having a regular cleaning and maintaining routine can help extend the life and efficiency of your solar panels. Make yours last long by following the easy cleaning and maintaining tips above.

 

With all the available low-cost solar panels in the Philippines, going solar is definitely within reach. There are different types that cater to different preferences of people. Knowing which of type of solar panel suits your need will enable you to choose the right solar panel for your home and can make the most out of it. Here are some of the types of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to guide you on right type of solar panels that you will install on the roof of your house.

 

Amorphous Silicon Solar Cell

Among all the types of solar PV panels, amorphous solar cells are the cheapest and easiest type of solar cell to produce. Amorphous solar cells are often used for low power equipment, such as pocket calculators and watches since it produces less efficient solar cells. However, with recent innovations in manufacturing this type of solar cell (called stacking), amorphous solar cell can produce high efficient solar cells by combining several layers of silicon cells. The advantages of using an amorphous solar cell are 1.) it’s flexible since the layer of its silicon is thin, and 2.) they are effective in low light levels.

 

Hybrid Solar Cell

Hybrid solar cell is not a natural type of a solar cell rather than a combination of amorphous silicon solar cell and monocrystalline solar cell.   This type of solar cell is the recent development in photovoltaic, which composed of a high electron transport material and an organic material. The combination of these two materials makes the power conversion efficient and generates better output. Moreover, hybrid solar cell perform its best when place in sunnier climate, which temperature can reach up to 25 degree Celsius, thus, producing more electricity.

 

Monocrystalline

Monocrystalline solar PV cell is the most efficient type of solar PV cell because despite its small appearance, it can produce the same amount of electricity that is produced by its counterpart solar cells. This type of solar PV cell is made from thin wafers of silicon, which is cut from an artificially grown crystal, thus, making it the most expensive among all the types of solar PV cell.

The monocrystalline rod is removed from melted silicon and it is sliced into thin plates, producing smaller solar cells. The production of this solar cell type guarantees to produce high efficient silicon. Moreover, a monocrystalline solar PV cell works best in bright and cool condition.

 

Polycrystalline

Just like the monocrystalline solar cell, a polycrystalline solar cell is made from thin wafers of silicon, which is cut from an artificially grown crystal. However, this type of solar cell is made from several interlocking silicon crystals, thus, making them cheaper to produce compared to its counterpart. Moreover, polycrystalline solar panel has been the most popular choice among consumers.

 

Whether your reasons for going solar are economic, environmental, or personal, going solar is definitely a good move. Spend some researching and learning which types of solar PV panels will suit your needs before buying your solar panels.

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.