Water

New software speeds detection of contaminants in drinking water

Scientists from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy have collaborated in developing new water quality software that enhances a water system’s ability to detect when there has been intentional or unintentional contamination. Officials said the software, called Canary, can help detect a wide variety of chemical and biological contaminants, including pesticides, metals, and pathogens. Once contamination is detected quickly, a water utility could issue a “Do Not Drink” order to prevent customers from ingesting the water.

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Showering: The McGregor Method

By now, you probably know that taking showers rather than baths is better for the environment. But that doesn’t mean you’re all clear for a long, hot shower. Showers should be no more than five minutes (come on, you can do it!) or even three minutes if you’ve got the will power (an egg timer helps).

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Pepsi will fund ideas to help Gulf states

From Green Right Now Reports

Pepsi said it plans to award more than $20 million this year to fund good ideas — big and small — that help refresh our world. Beginning this week, it is accepting idea submissions from individuals and organizations to make a positive impact on communities in the Gulf states. Idea submissions for The Pepsi Refresh Project: Do Good for the Gulf will close on Friday, July 16, at 11:59 a.m. or when Pepsi receives 1,000 submissions, whichever occurs first, the company said.

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Thirsty front lawn? Get smart about conserving water outdoors

Using less water at home is a snap indoors if you have the cash. Just install modern low-flow toilets, a state-of-the-art washing machine and dishwasher and a conserving water heater. Outdoors, where 50 to 75 percent of residential water is consumed, the solution is trickier. Most people over-water their yards, but watering less may not be enough.

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Consumer Reports picks best water filters to replace bottled water

There’s good news for consumers when it comes to clean drinking water.  Consumer Reports says water filter manufacturers are producing products that effectively remove impurities, not just improve taste and appearance. Filters costing as little as $30 can provide cleaner, better-tasting water, according to the consumer magazine’s latest water filter tests. Consumer Reports tested 38 carafe, faucet, countertop, reverse osmosis, and undersink water filters. The results appear in the May issue and online.

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White House to host conservation summit

From Green Right Now Reports

Mindful that natural areas continue to disappear in the wake of pollution and urban sprawl, the Obama Administration is inviting a cross-section of interested parties to a summit on conservation to be held in Washington, D.C. on April 16.

The White House Conference on America’s Great Outdoors will promote local leadership rather than programs on the federal level. The guest list is scheduled to include sportsmen, environmentalists and others with an interest in finding a way to manage and protect our connection with our natural resources.

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A North Carolina McDonald’s goes McGreen

By Barbara Kessler

When Ric Richards recently acquired an aging McDonalds in Cary, N.C., he knew the place needed an overhaul.  The 25-year-old store was fraying at the edges.

Richards decided to give these particular golden arches a green touch.

Once he’d decided that the building needed replacing, the decision to go eco-friendly was not difficult. Richards knew it made sense from a business standpoint – it would cut energy costs dramatically – and he figured it would resonate with the educated customers living in the Research Triangle region, especially those interested in lower-carbon living.

“I felt it was the right thing to do,’’ said the owner-operator whose green restaurant celebrated its grand opening this winter. “We all need to be more geared for sustainability as we move into the future. We need to build buildings or live at home using fewer resources.”

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MIT program will help companies develop sustainable supply chains

From Green Right Now Reports

MIT’s Center for Transportation & Logistics will launch the Global LEAP (Leaders in Environmental Assessment and Performance) research consortium at its annual Crossroads Conference on March 25, in Cambridge, Mass.

Chiquita Brands and Lockheed Martin are the first commercial organizations to sign up for this new project to design supply chains that meet the sustainability goals that are redefining the way companies operate. Inaugural members have pledged comprehensive support for the new consortium including a financial commitment, in-kind resources, thought leadership, and active participation.

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Navy initiates green development policies

From Green Right Now Reports

With 40 installations in the Chesapeake Bay watershed alone, the United States Navy has an enormous environmental impact on the region. New construction and regular improvements of existing facilities pose a major challenge in terms of limiting damage to the local ecosystem.

Development in the region is increasing the number of impervious surfaces (roofs, driveways, parking lots, etc.) at a rate four times greater than population growth. As a result, stormwater runoff has become a major threat in terms of polluting the Bay.

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Quenching your thirst: Bottled water vs. tap water

By Sarah Beck

Drinking enough water each day prevents dehydration and helps our bodies function. With all of the water options available to help keep us hydrated — from tap water to a variety of bottled water brands — it’s difficult to decide which option is better for your health. And, is bottled water better for you than tap water?

Water varies by taste and quality, as well as other factors. That said, if your tap water meets the standards of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or your bottled water meets U.S. Federal Drug Administration standards, it generally is safe to drink.

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