Green energy is becoming more popular than ever. Whether it’s solar panels, wind turbines, or other methods, 18% of all electricity in the United States is now created using renewable resources.

Although its legality has differed from state to state, the Rainwater Collection Act means Californians can now begin harvesting rainwater.

What is Rainwater Harvesting?

Rainwater harvesting is the process of collecting rainfall into large containers and using it for household tasks and irrigation. Collection systems can vary from household to household; some residences have a simple barrel placed beneath a downspout while others have elaborate collection vats connected by a series of pipes. With areas of northern California receiving an average of 40 inches per year, there is plenty of opportunity for homeowners to take advantage of this resource.

What are the Advantages of Rainwater Harvesting?

The primary goal of rainwater harvesting, as outlined by communities like Berkeley, is to provide an alternative water supply for landscape irrigation. The average summer temperature can reach highs of 92℉, so lawns and gardens can become parched if left unwatered for too long. This problem is only further exacerbated by California’s recent droughts.

Rainwater harvesting is not only a great way for homeowners to save money, but also to preserves local aquifers in case of future emergencies. It also limits the amount of stormwater that would normally runoff through the property. Stormwater picks up dangerous pesticides and pollutants while passing to the ocean, and can contaminate pristine areas and bodies of water. By gathering this stormwater and using it, you will preserve these areas and restrict pesticides to an enclosed and manageable environment.

CREED LA fights to ensure that developers pay fair wages to all the hard-working construction professionals throughout the industry while simultaneously providing them with quality health care, continued training, and trustworthy retirement plans. To learn more about how our non-profit organization supports those building a better, greener world for us all, contact CREED LA online or at (877) 810-7473.

The construction industry is going through a profound transformation as the world becomes more aware of the importance of sustainability. Concepts like green engineering are gaining popularity whereas old practices that harm the environment are fading away. The result is the rise of a new generation of buildings that are economically viable, environmentally friendly, and energy-efficient.

What is Green Engineering?

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines green engineering as “the design, commercialization, and use of processes and products in a way that reduces pollution, promotes sustainability, and minimizes risk to human health and the environment without sacrificing economic viability and efficiency.”

Green engineering is not a new technology but it is a mindset shift. Not so long ago, construction companies used to build without worrying about CO2 emissions or water management. They would do anything to maximize their profits regardless of the consequences for the environment.

Fortunately, the times are changing.

Environmentally-Friendly Buildings

In this very interesting article, BBC talked to people who are contributing to building a greener future. One of them is Scott Moran, senior director of exhibits and architecture at California Academy of Sciences.

Scott has helped design the building’s green systems over the past 15 years. Some of the features include a living room with nearly 1.7 million plants, insects, and birds; solar panels; hydroelectric power generation; and automatic skylights. “Buildings need to be designed and used in a way to save as much energy and water as possible”, he says.

Buildings like the California Academy of Sciences are expected to become more popular in the near future. According to the International Labor Organization, environmentally-friendly buildings will generate more than 6.5 million jobs by 2030.

If you want to help build a greener future, we can work together!

CREED LA fights to ensure that developers pay fair wages to all the hard-working construction professionals throughout the industry while simultaneously providing them with quality health care, continued training, and trustworthy retirement plans. To learn more about how our non-profit organization supports those building a better, greener world for us all, contact CREED LA online or at (877) 810-7473.