An artwork that gives new meaning to a dead tree

Nature speaks for itself, while art amplifies whatever nature has to say. Artist Luca Gnizio has cut a niche for himself in amplifying the communications of nature. His latest project, Forsoultree, speaks more than words could. Yet, it is a project that goes beyond the creation of an artist. It features more than a hundred years of nature’s work ingrained in a dead tree trunk.

The project started with the accidental discovery of a century-old Holm Oak tree trunk that had been brought down by nature. Located at the grounds of Villa San Michele, the trunk sits on part of the Monumental Park of Monte Ceceri —where Leonardo da Vinci did tests for his flying machines.

Related: Pine Bark Hut resembles an actual tree in a forest

Unlike Leonardo’s art, which has often left us with thousands of unanswered questions, Forsoultree was documented right from the start. From the moment the trunk was found, deliberate efforts to preserve and document started. The decision to call in Luca Gnizio was immediate. When he was called in, he immediately thought of giving the dead trunk some life.

Forsoultree tries to create life and meaning out of a dead tree by merging it with the surrounding environment. Over the past decade, Gnizio has made a name for himself, establishing a whole new form of art that collaborates with nature. In his work, he focuses on three Rs: reduce, reuse and recycle.

The Forsoultree takes on various aspects of his artistic approach. The aim of this project was not only to reuse but also to preserve and give life. The reason for trying to give life to a dead trunk can only be seen through the work itself. Anyone looking at the scene can be fooled into thinking that it is scripted. 

Traditionally, this type of wood would be considered waste. To Gnizio, what most people call waste can be repurposed to give more meaning to life. He has managed to create new levels of beauty with the trunk, merging it with the natural environment and using it as the focal point. 

Notably, it is the conversion of parts of the trunk into seats. He has managed to create two unique seats with the trunk still in its primary location. One seat gives an admirable view overlooking Florence while the other stares directly into the old quarry’s rocky walls. All around the trunk itself are breathtaking views of the park for any lover of the natural space.

If you think sitting on a dead trunk will be boring, what about bathing? Well, for now, the water is imaginary, but the basin is real. Gnizio has managed to carve out a deep basin with sufficient resting space. An adult can lie on the floor of the basin looking upwards and enjoy the serene surrounding nature. Unfortunately, the basin is only for artistic purposes. You may not be able to bathe in it, but you will surely enjoy the views.

“Forsoultree speaks of beauty and respect and reminds us that nothing belongs to us on this earth, where we are simply passing guests,” explained Luca Gnizio. “By physically entering the tree, we can establish an intimate and sensory dialogue with that part of us that is innate.”

Born in 1981 in Lodi, Gnizio inspired many through his unique sense of art. He uses what could be termed as rejects in the traditional sense and turns them into meaningful art. Since 2009, he has introduced a new field of art known as ECOSOCIAL. This new field is now internationally recognized and is often used by fellow artists to communicate different issues in society. Most of his work is made of recycled materials pushing many to be ecologically and socially conscious.

Gnizio art offers an opportunity for us to learn more about our environment and also appreciate life as it is, saying, “Forsoultree takes us into the depths of things, where primitive sensations are born, and connects us through our senses with a piece of eternity.”

+ Luca Gnizio

Images via Alessio Guarino and Luca Gnizio

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The most sustainable building in Germany is a timber beauty

Germany’s most sustainable building is in Berlin, and it’s a beauty. The EDGE Suedkreuz Berlin is a seven-story office complex consisting of two buildings comprising 32,000 square meters of floor space. It has been built by TCHOBAN VOSS Architekten using sustainable, climate and resource-saving techniques. Plus, it has a modular hybrid-timber construction that makes this hybrid-timber building one of the largest in Europe.

The German Sustainable Building Council (DGNB) certified the EDGE Suedkreuz Berlin project Germany’s most sustainable building in 2022. Since the summer of 2022, the building has served as the new German headquarters for energy supplier Vattenfall.

Related: Oregon green building design embraces timber throughout

This project was placed in a new urban district of Berlin that has mixed use buildings designated for housing, work, commercial outlets and cultural events. The larger of the two buildings is shaped like a trapezoid with an irregular footprint, and the second building has an elongated structure. The two buildings together form a street front facing Hedwig-Dohm-Strasse, including a new urban plaza with seating and green space outside.

The larger Carre building contains a light-filled atrium of 26 meters and two-story lobby of sever meters that faces the front plaza. The atrium is covered by a transparent ETFE foil roof supported by wood trusses. Glazed entrance area and panoramic windows complement the building’s floor-to-ceiling office windows for bright views from every angle, also helping to save on energy costs.

Additionally, under the foil roof are four tree trunk-shaped columns of lamellate spruce wood that stretch floor to ceiling like a greenhouse. At the base of each column is green space, surrounded by community and food areas. The “trees” carry platform structures for recreation and leisure at various heights. Filigree steps with white railings link the platforms and lead to office floors. On the fifth floor is a sky lounge with views and an exterior terrace overlooking the city. Wood is used throughout the building to act as support beams and decorative accents, giving the complex a true hybrid appearance. This design concept was developed by de Winder Architekten Berlin.

Moreover, the smaller Solitaire building of the EDGE complex also has a two-story lobby, with offices on floors two to seven located above a ground floor of eateries, and commercial spaces. You can access this second building through the plaza or by way of a central core with safety staircase and two elevators. Outside is a garden landscaped roof deck.

Both buildings are modular in layout for future proofing their functionality, the design avoiding load-bearing interior walls in favor of a circular space with a variety of possible uses. The pillars also house energy systems, including heat and power. The office spaces are air-conditioned via suspended smart ceilings. A basement garage makes space for 218-e-mobility spaces for tenants and 100 bicycle parking spaces with 32 additional exterior spots. All spaces are designed to be barrier free and accessible. Facades use weather resistant glass-fiber concrete panels, making them lightweight and recyclable. The facades also absorb CO2 in their thinly ground cement top layer, which decarbonizes the air around the facility.

EDGE Suedkreuz Berlin is the first project in Germany to be recorded for building construction with a 100% match on the MADASTER material database, with materials that can be reused and recycled. Prefab building panels and modules made construction more efficient with reduced construction waste and time. The hybrid combination of wood and concrete from CREE-Buildings can save up to 50% of CO2 per square meter of floor area compared to a traditional building. Even the roof of the Carre building was designed to be lightweight foil with filigree wood components to ensure better lighting inside and reduced material use while still withstanding wind loads of up to 100 kg.

EDGE Suedkreuz Berlin received the DGNB Platinum certificate with the highest score ever achieved in Germany of 95.4%. The complex was certified with DGNB Diamond for its outstanding design and architectural quality. The project also received a WELL v2 Platinum certification.

+ TCHOBAN VOSS Architekten

Images via HG ESCH and TCHOBAN VOSS Architekten

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Nescaf prefab Brazil store is a 3D-printed spectacular

Designed by Estudio Guto Requena, the Dolce Gusto Neo Flagship store is a temporary commercial space located in a public park in São Paulo, Brazil. The project was created for the launch of Nescafé’s Dolce Gusto “Neo” coffee machines and pods, which feature recycled ocean plastics and biodegradable capsules.

The flagship store was designed using parametric design and fabricated using biodegradable 3D-printed materials. Parametric design used computer software that employed algorithms to create complex, intricate geometries. One such example of this is the building’s base, which uses a parametric waffle form that is milled using a Computerized Numerical Control (CNC) machine. Because of these features, this building is the first of its kind in Latin America.

Related: 3D-printed recycled waste can be turned into insulated walls

The prefab structure is made of glue-laminated timber (GLT) made of pine. These were carefully cut to minimize waste. This was then capped with a lightweight 3D-printed shell. After the building serves its purpose in the next two years, it will be dismantled. The wood will be recycled and the biodegradable plaster shell will be crushed. This nutrient-rich powder can then be used as an agricultural fertilizer and will provide soils with calcium and sulfur to boost plant growth.

Moreover, the design stems from the coffee flower’s five petals, which come together to create a dome that is formed along five axes. In the center of the space, a round skylight brings in natural light and creates an atmosphere reminiscent of a temple with a biomimetic form. This creates a space with five entrances, equal in size and hierarchy. The entrances are flanked with glass to offer 360 degrees views out to the surrounding park.

To organize the interiors, the five “flower petals” that create the overall form serve as spaces for product displays. A circular screen made up of five LED panels showcases digital content.

Through its construction and location in a public park, the space achieves two key design intentions. Firstly, the project is accessible to the public and open to all. Secondly, the project’s design showcases the vast possibilities of sustainable design. The space encourages observers to reflect on how we design for the future, especially given the current climate crisis. This includes the use of innovative technologies and renewable materials.

+ Estudio Guto Requena

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Did you know these surprising solar panel facts?

Solar panels are by far the best applicable technology for converting solar energy to usable electricity today. With the sun available to us around the year, it is only reasonable to consider taping its energy for domestic use. Even so, the currently available photovoltaic solar cell technology is still not as efficient as desired. The cells used in most solar panels have an efficiency of about 15% to 20%. This means that only about 20% of the sun rays that reach the panel are converted to electricity.

While solar panels are still quite inefficient, they are the most affordable source of renewable energy. Further, they can be installed on a small scale, something that cannot be said about wind, geothermal or other renewable energy options. With this perspective in mind, individuals, governments and policymakers continue to push for the use of solar panels to achieve the net-zero target.

Related: Incredible new solar cells are thinner than human hair

There are many interesting facts about solar panels and solar energy at large that most people do not know. According to Eco Watch, solar power holds the largest potential of all renewable energy technologies. Consequently, it must be accorded a multi-sectoral approach to bring this potential to life. Individual electricity consumers have a role to play in the journey of adopting solar energy. If you are interested in learning more about solar panels, here are nine interesting facts you should know.

Fact #1 The earth receives a continuous supply of 173,000 terawatts of solar

Even on a cloudy day, the Earth still receives an enormous amount of solar energy. Given that the sun is centrally positioned with respect to the Earth, it never stops shining. At every given point in time, the sun is releasing 173,000 terawatts of energy to the Earth. In just one hour, the energy supplied by the sun could cover the energy needs of the entire world for a year.

With this factor in view, companies are coming up with technologies for capturing solar energy for efficient home cooking. For as long as the sun shines, solar energy technologies will continue to evolve.

Fact #2 Solar panels technology is almost 150 years old

Solar panels are just starting to take root in most regions. You might be fooled to think that solar panel technology is new. On the contrary, solar panels have been around since 1883. In fact, the first photovoltaic (PV) effect was demonstrated as early as 1839 by French scientist Edmond Becquerel. 

Although scientists started working on solar technology much earlier, it was until 1883 that the first solar cell was created by French scientist Charles Fritts. In 1884, the scientist installed the first solar panel on a roof in New York. In 1922, Albert Einstein was recognized with the Nobel Prize for his work on the photovoltaic effect, which revolutionized solar panel technology. However, the development of solar panels has taken a slow pace. For a long time, the world preferred fossil fuels and hydroelectric power. It was until 1954 that the first practical solar cell was developed by Bell Laboratories.

Even with the development of workable solar cells, the world has still been slow to adopt solar technology. 

Fact #3 Solar panels have more uses other than just lighting

We mostly know solar panels for their ability to convert sunlight into electricity for lighting. This line of thought has made it quite difficult for most people to use solar panels. It is often thought that the electricity supplied by solar panels is not sufficient to run other domestic purposes.

Contrary to this belief, solar panels have diverse uses. They can be used to heat water for domestic use and even charge electric cars. Ideally, solar panels can perform all functions your grid connection does. However, the functions performed by a solar panel will depend on the size of your panels and location.

Fact #4 Solar panels are now a popular home improvement

Solar panels are now considered one of the most popular home improvements. A Pew Research Center survey shows that up to 39% of U.S. homeowners are considering installing solar. In the previous year, up to 8% of homeowners had installed solar panels. Interestingly, even those under the age of 30 hold a similar perspective. This is an indication that both the young and the old value solar panel installation as part of their property development.

Fact #5 You do not need planning permission to install solar panels in most regions

Due to the need to speed up solar uptake, most jurisdictions allow the installation of solar panels without the need for planning permission. However, this is only applicable to small-scale installations such as domestic roof solar. If you intend to install a commercial-scale solar system you must undergo approvals. 

In most cities across the U.S., installing solar panels is not considered a new construction but rather a home remodeling project. For most such projects, you may not need planning permission.

With that in mind, some solar installation projects may need permission. For instance, if you are developing a new house with a solar panel roof, you must get a planning permit. In the U.K., solar panels are listed under Permitted Developments. In other words, you can install solar panels in the U.K. without obtaining planning permission in most localities. Even so, it is necessary to confirm with your local authorities before embarking on a solar remodeling project.

Fact #6 The solar panel industry has created millions of jobs

According to the United Nations, the renewable energy sector created over 700,000 new jobs globally in the year 2022 only. These figures are a complete contrast to what those who oppose of renewable energy tend to portray. One of the reasons why technologies such as solar panels have waited so long to be adopted is the myth that renewable energy causes the loss of jobs.

The U.K. expects to create up to 60, 000 new jobs by 2035  in the solar energy sector alone. This goes to show that solar panels do not only reduce carbon emissions but also create employment. 

Fact #7 Global solar panel costs continue to drop

As the world rushes to adopt clean energy, there have been efforts to lower the cost of renewables. One area that has benefited is the solar panels sector. There are several factors that have resulted in these price drops. According to an IRENA report, solar panels have dropped in price by up to 82% in the past decade due to advanced production technology, incentives and funding from financial institutions.

Although solar panels have already experienced a significant price drop, they may still see further drops. Many institutions and governments are now funding studies that are revealing alternatives to traditional solar cells. With new and cheaper solar cell technologies coming up, it is only a matter of time before solar becomes even more efficient and cheaper.

Fact #8 Installing a solar boosts your home value

Solar panels are not only popular due to the energy they provide but also for the value they add to a home. Most people who install solar panels also think about the value it adds to their homes. A recent study by RICS  on properties in the U.K. found that homes with solar panels attracted up to a 2% increase in value. The same study also found that it takes approximately 10 years to repay your solar system. Considering that most people stay in their homes for more than 10 years installing solar offers financial benefits as well. Homeowners who do not resell their homes within a decade can enjoy more than 10 years of electricity free of bills.

Fact #9 Solar panel recycling is possible 

Solar panels are considered one of the best clean energy sources except for the fact that they are not fully recyclable. Most panels end up in landfills once they come to the end of their lifespan. More perturbing is the fact that they contain some toxic substances such as lead and cadmium that can harm the environment. However, solar panels are predominantly made up of silicon, which can be recycled. New findings now show that solar panel recycling is possible if necessary steps are taken.

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5 unique and sustainable fencing options for your garden

Gardening is one of the most ecologically conscious projects that most people can practice. With concepts such as net-zero gardening taking shape, gardeners go to unimaginable lengths to avoid harming the environment. The one aspect most gardeners never consider is that a garden fence can have negative environmental effects and must be installed with consciousness. Creating a sustainable garden only to install an unsustainable fence negates the entire purpose of your project. Interestingly, installing a sustainable fence is easy and often more affordable than traditional options. 

While we cannot pin the term sustainable to any single act, you may already have an idea of what a sustainable fence entails. Essentially, it is any fence that is ecologically and environmentally sensitive. In this view, even the slightest efforts to cut down greenhouse gasses, reduce water wastage and preserve nature are welcome.

Related: What do you need to know about plant walls?

To build a sustainable garden fence, consider using materials that are less harmful to the environment. For a long time, gardeners have relied on plastic and wood fences. In our sustainably sensitive society, things have changed. Gardeners now use biodegradable materials or those that are at least produced with minimal greenhouse pollution. Sustainable fencing also considers options that are less energy-consuming and ones that save natural resources such as water.

Given that sustainability is a multifaceted subject, make your decisions very carefully. For instance, going for a living fence made out of plants can help reduce atmospheric carbon pollution. However, if you plant trees that are water-thirsty on your fence, you may also end up hurting the limited water resources. It is therefore important to balance all aspects of sustainability as you build your garden fence.

With these factors at the back of your mind, here are five ideas for a sustainable garden fence.

1. Bamboo wood fence

Bamboo is one of the world’s fastest-growing plants. Some species of bamboo can grow by as much as three feet per day, according to One Tree. Note that bamboo is actually grass and not a tree and hence the fast growth rate. Interestingly, bamboo can grow up to 90 feet tall at maturity. For a plant that is easy to grow, using it as a fence is a sustainable step.

When it comes to fencing, bamboo is really among the top sustainable options. It boasts natural patterns that make it a beauty to behold. Secondly, it is one of the hardest and most durable plants on earth. When used on fencing, you should expect a considerably long lifespan of up to 20 years without any signs of weakness.

On the downside, bamboo might not be readily available in a market near you. If this is the case, consider growing your own. Bamboo is well tolerant to different types of climates and grows pretty fast. 

2. Rustic stone fence

A stone fence offers plenty of benefits apart from being sustainable. First, it is probably one of the most durable fencing options. Stones can last for centuries as long as they are well-installed. While you might need to use cement in some cases, there are stone fences that can be built entirely without introducing concrete. Stones are natural and will not introduce any chemicals to the environment.

Secondly, even if you decide to bring down the stone fence at some point, the final waste is natural earth. You will not have any foreign matter polluting the surface. Most importantly, stones are cheaper than most of the other fencing materials used.

You have several stone options to choose from, including travertine, marble and granite. Choose a stone color that blends easily with your garden for aesthetics. 

3. Biocomposite fencing material

Today, there are many types of biocomposite building materials. These are mainly fencing or construction materials made from fully or partially organic compounds. These materials act as a replacement for traditional construction options that do not pay much attention to sustainability. Some examples are Natures Composites fencing made from a combination of used plastic and natural wheat straw. Recycled Plastic Concrete can also fall under this category. 

The best part is that you get access to diverse colors for your fence beautification. The other advantage of such materials is that they are stronger and way more durable than plastic. The downside of such a fence is that it may be slightly more costly. Traditional materials such as wood and plastic are easily available. On the other hand, special composite materials may be slightly costly.

4. Plant a living fence

The living fence is one of the oldest ideas of fencing. Before humans started fencing their compounds with steel and concrete, plants were used to decorate and protect homes. The same idea is still widely applicable and can be used in your garden. The best part of using a living fence is that you do not have to introduce any non-organic material.

With the living fence, all you have to do is find a plant that covers the spaces well. Some plants that do well on the fence are the Leyland cypress, boxwood and honeysuckle. When choosing a plant to use on the fence, go for one that is attractive but also efficient in water consumption. Avoid plants that are water hungry such as white cedar and river birch if you will be using your tap water to irrigate. For those in regions that receive plenty of precipitation, there is no need to worry about water consumption.

Although the living fence ticks so many boxes in terms of sustainability and costs, it requires patience. Some green fencing plants could take as long as five years before taking shape. This means that you must be patient as you wait for your fence to mature. You must also be extra careful so that your tender plants do not get damaged by animals and humans.

The other key component of a living fence is the need to get rid of pests. Avoid planting trees or flowers that are susceptible to pests. Such may require using too many pesticides to the detriment of the environment.

5. Reclaimed lumber fencing

Recycling and reusing are part of sustainability. Reclaiming what would have become waste is one way to reduce clutter in the environment. If you have unused wood at home, work on them to make a fence. There are also timber yards that sell reclaimed lumber. This type of wood is much cheaper than purchasing fresh timber. Secondly, using reclaimed wood helps reduce deforestation in the long run.

Fencing with reclaimed wood has its disadvantages. One of the main factors that come out is the durability of the fence. Reclaimed wood has a much shorter lifespan than fresh wood. Even so, with appropriate treatment to fend off pests, the fence could last. Reclaimed wood is, therefore, best used in regions that are not commonly affected by wood-eating pests.

Final Take

If you are considering a sustainable garden fence, there are many options to choose from. However, they are not without their disadvantages. When installing a sustainable fence, consider its value to the environment, the cost of installation and its durability. Always weigh the negatives against the positives. At the end of the day, sustainability is a matter of making choices and accounting for their consequences.

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All-encompassing hotel in San Francisco is quality ecotourism

San Francisco has long been a destination for those who enjoy natural wonders. The incredible bay and sandy beaches, the towering redwoods, the mountains, it all gives this city a look that no other place has. And now, finally, the Bay Area will have a sustainable hotel that celebrates the environment of San Francisco with 1 Hotel San Francisco.

Reclaimed wood, terracotta and stones were used throughout this design. You will also see native California greenery all over the hotel. Repurposed and locally-soured materials were used throughout. That includes redwood salvaged from the Old San Francisco Bay Bridge and recycled rubber.

Related: A luxury resort was designed for conservation and protection

Moreover, an on-site herb garden provides ingredients for sustainable cocktails. There’s also an apiary for bees on site. The hotel food menu is full of farm-to-table options. The food and cocktails make use of sustainably sourced, organic ingredients. Some of them come from the hotel’s rooftop garden.

The restaurant has a green ceiling made up of 100% preserved plants. Reclaimed timber was used for the dining chairs. All rugs in all public spaces in the hotel are hand-woven by artists in underdeveloped counties. Meanwhile, the linens are sustainably sourced. You will find driftwood sculptures in the bathrooms. The decorative baskets were hand-woven in India and there is beautiful wood, art and greenery everywhere you look. The house cars are Audi E-Tron, all-electric cars.

The list of features and amenities goes on. The point is, this is a gorgeous, sustainable hotel that puts eco-tourism right at the forefront. San Francisco is a perfect destination for those who love the natural world and believe in preserving its beauty. This hotel is a showcase of just how that natural beauty can be preserved and celebrated.

In one 2020 research study, San Francisco was rated as the most eco-friendly city in the world for tourists. That’s a big claim to fame and there’s obviously a big need in the city for sustainable hotels like this one. The city is chock-full of vegan restaurants and eco-friendly tours. There are also more parks and wildlife preserves here than any other city in the world. In other words, this is the perfect place to celebrate the natural world.

+ 1 Hotel San Francisco

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Castelar 75 building is green inside and out

Castelar 75 is a boutique building designed by the renowned architect Fernando Donis. The building is located in Polanco, an exclusive residential area in Mexico City, and is considered to be one of Mexico’s most state-of-the-art edifices. The architecture is a revamp of the typical commercial building and features large spaces for offices, reception areas and parking. Its colossal size covers a floor area of 1207 m2, which amounts to 18,314 m2 that is spread out vertically over 17 floors. Besides its immense size, it is well-designed and features several environmentally-friendly design elements that make it an elegant yet practical contemporary building.

From its conception, Castelar 75 was designed with sustainability at the core. Now, it has achieved LEED Gold Certification. To achieve this prestigious award, the Green Business Certification Inc. (GBCI) assesses how sustainable a building is. Credits are awarded for sustainability throughout the life cycle of the space, not just once it is built. This includes everything from the design, construction and running of the building.

Related: Biophilic Belgian Pavilion features futuristic sustainable design

A functional, biomimetic façade

One of the key features of Castelar 75’s design is the façade. It serves as one of the building’s primary sustainable strategies. The façade comprises of a brise-soleil created by angled vertical panels, which front the windows. This amplifies the shading provided by the brise-soleil, as the windows use low-emission double glazing to further minimize solar gain. The brise-soleil also shades ventilated terraces on each floor. Through these three elements, the building is protected from harsh sunlight and is provided with cross-ventilation, while featuring views to Lincoln Park. 

The brise-soleil is made from large Laminam slabs from the I Naturali collection. These slabs are reminiscent of natural stone and improve the building’s thermal insulation. Despite their large size, they are very lightweight and do not affect load-bearing structures. They are also very eco-friendly and recyclable. In fact, by using this material, the designers were able to earn more LEED credits. This is because the Laminam panels contributed to the building’s recycled material use, which totaled over 20%. 

Visually, the modules created on the facade are biomimetic, as they are an abstraction of the fractal nature of honeycombs. Each of the trapezoidal cells created by the Laminam slabs host pockets of greenery. Their playful, visually-pleasing nature creates a dynamic facade that reveals the character of the modern building.

+ DONIS

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Making this wedding season an eco-friendly one for all

Wedding season is upon us, and thanks to a slowly retreating pandemic, there seems to be more than ever. Whether you are attending a wedding this year or planning one for next year, it is important to recognize the environmental impact that such an event can have. There is an average of two million weddings a year in the U.S., and they are some of the most expensive parties thrown around the world. Between travel, single-use objects and food waste, weddings produce 400 pounds of trash and 63 tons of carbon dioxide per event.

The most environmentally-friendly option: do not have a wedding. But that is not the most fun option or even what you might want to do. Instead, there are a few changes you can make to your big day or to your wedding attendance that can limit your impact on the planet while still having fun.

Related: From rings to cards, here’s how to make your wedding eco

Stay local with your venue and the companies you buy from

Though it may not be your first choice, staying close to home — within an hour’s drive of most guests — can cut carbon emissions by a lot. Many people may choose to drive in for the day and will not need to spend money on a hotel. Others may choose to stay close to the venue to walk or carpool over. Regardless of specifics, reducing travel time can make a big difference.

Of course, this may not be possible if you live far from your loved ones. The next best option is choosing venues that champion sustainability. These include LEED-certified buildings and even simply having a wedding outdoors and using nature as your backdrop. Additionally, hosting the ceremony and reception in the same or nearby places reduces travel time even more.

Whether close to home or not, a wedding brings people into an area, and it can be a boost to local businesses if you choose catering, photographers and florists close to the venue. This reduces their travel time, and you can encourage your guests to shop locally while they are in town as well.

Use recycled, reused or rented materials for decorations and invites

While it can take more time to thrift the exact dress or linens for your big day, it significantly reduces water waste and transportation emissions by doing so. Renting dresses and suits has never been easier, and there is a chance you can even borrow friends’ or family members’ clothes for the day. Your venue may have decorations you can use, or you can choose to decorate with potted plants to keep the space green.

When it comes to invitations, sending physical invites made of recycled paper is a good choice, but directing folks to your wedding website or sending digital invitations is even better. By having an online RSVP, people can more easily update their RSVP and you can stay informed. You reduce the amount of paper circulating and make it easy to find information leading up to the event, even if they do lose the original invite.

Invite fewer people

As stressful as it can be deciding who to invite and who not to, how many plus ones you are able to feed and whether to allow children, reducing the number of people in attendance is the easiest way to reduce waste. If you need more convincing: smaller weddings are on trend.

Smaller gatherings make your big day more intimate while reducing the amount of food that needs to be prepared and the size of the space you need to celebrate. With fewer people, they may even feel comfortable carpooling together.

If you are attending someone else’s wedding:

1. Stick to the gift registry

The bride and groom have spent many hours building their registry, whether it is for charity donations or specific things they want for their home. Please stick to that list. Just like when you receive a gift that you do not really want, they are unlikely to keep or use a gift they did not ask for. If you know the wedding party well, you can suggest guests contribute to their honeymoon fund or allow for digital gift cards. If you do wrap a physical gift, wrap it in brown paper or another material that can be easily recycled or reused.

2. Thrift, rent, reuse or borrow your clothes

If you have attended a different wedding, holiday party or fancy gathering in the last few years, chances are you already have something to wear. If you still want something new to you, try borrowing from a friend, renting or thrifting. These methods significantly reduce the amount of raw material and can save up to thousands of gallons of water. They also happen to be more budget-friendly and encourage you to pass your thrifted dress along to another friend later.

If you do end up with a new outfit for the occasion, try to search for environmentally-friendly materials such as hemp-based silk, organic cotton and other Fairtrade materials. Better yet, pick an outfit that you will wear again. Unless your friend’s wedding is black tie, it is likely that you can get away with an outfit that is reusable for brunch and date night, extending the life of the outfit.

3. Carpool, if you can

Especially if you know other people going to the wedding, try to carpool. This allows for more drivers to take turns driving if it is a long drive and reduces the number of cars on the road. Take advantage of group transportation if it is available. It is a fun way to meet other guests and reduce the driving you do all in the name of the environment. If you need to move yourself between the hotel, ceremony and reception, carpool if possible. Parking can be a pain, and with one car and several people, you can easily designate a driver to remain sober.

Eco-friendly options at weddings can appear to be more expensive at first glance, but a few small changes can be good for the planet as well as your budget. You do not have to give up your environmentalism for your big day, and who knows, you may even encourage others to incorporate sustainable practices into their weddings.

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Will AI be important to the future of eco construction?

Global construction is one of the biggest consumers of resources and one of the biggest polluters. According to AI Magazine, construction is responsible for 38% of global energy consumption, and the building sector alone accounts for almost 55% of final energy use. Buildings also account for 40% of global final energy consumption and 33% of greenhouse gases. It’s also well known that concrete and steel account for excessive emissions and material waste in building construction.

Because of this enormous challenge, the future of sustainable construction may lie with AI. AI is able to analyze building efficiency performance by sorting through massive amounts of data to pinpoint the best opportunities for sustainable design and optimal material usage. With a tool like AI, the future of sustainable construction could advance much faster than in the past and help architects and designers work with new design tools, sustainable materials and methods to create our sustainable buildings and cities of the future. For example, construction 3D printing guided by AI can recommend alternative building materials to save money and waste by replacing wasteful and expensive materials like concrete and steel, and plan out how construction materials could be recycled.

Related: AI reveals how climate change will impact our cities

AI analyzes data sets to find sustainable construction opportunities

LinkedIn recently ran an article that had this to say in praise of AI as a tool for sustainable construction and said, “In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a promising tool for architectural design. AI algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data on building performance, climate conditions and user behavior to optimize building systems for energy efficiency, water conservation, waste reduction and other sustainability objectives.”

AI can also predict battery failures and optimize energy loads on the grid or within buildings. It can help predict or detect faults in building construction for earthquake zones or other areas prone to natural disasters such as hurricane-proof building design for coastal regions.

Think about the sustainable design process and how many factors play in to a sustainable building. You not only are building a system that is LEED certified and integrates sustainable efficient water and electrical systems or passive solar and heat retention. A designer also needs to plan the building for its environment. That means accounting for optimal use of sustainable construction materials for the local environment that are locally sourced or sustainably harvested. It also means minimizing shipping carbon emissions, hiring local workers where possible and working with flexible modular interiors to future-proof the building or using insulation and placing windows or glazed facades for balanced heat retention and ventilation.

Water harvesting or recycling can reduce water waste. Permeable pavers could help minimize runoff pollution to nearby streams. Many countries that are growing hotter from climate change have also started berming buildings to reduce A/C use. AI can help with all of this decision making and more. It’s likely that AI and designers guiding its analysis of sustainable construction methods and systems will create best practices for each climate zone of the world. Thereby, simplify the sustainable construction process for builders as green building becomes standard practice required by law to meet SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action) global emissions goals.

How AI can make a difference in global emissions?

AI can continue to be used after construction to analyze how occupants use a building or community space, and to plan around occupant needs to minimize emissions. For example, AI can be used to automatically adjust heat and cooling levels according to how occupants use a building or based on time of day, or adjust building systems and warn occupants of excessive use according to seasonal droughts to reduce water waste and achieve SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) clean water goals. According to TS2.space, AI can additionally be used to monitor for problems that avoid costly building repairs, and can help retrofit older buildings with the most efficient energy upgrades to help building owners maximize efficiency without breaking the bank.

To promote circularity and reduce construction waste or building maintenance, AI can predict the best construction materials for a particular location or building use and plan out the most efficient shape, construction method or timeline for building in an efficient way.

Nokia says that 78% of telcos are relying on AI to improve the energy efficiency of their network energy use.

“From the originally produced energy in power plants only 90% ‘arrive’ at the network so there is already a loss of 10% during energy transmission,” said Nokia. “From this remaining energy about 80% is consumed by the radio access, the rest by transport, core and OSS. Thirty percent of that network energy (35% of the original energy) is consumed by auxiliary passive components such as air conditioning and power systems, so that only 70% (65% of the original energy) is consumed by the network elements itself.”

Finally, there are green spaces to plan and quality of life to consider for achieving SDG 15 (Life on Land) goals. AI can help plan out local landscaping plants, help improve air quality, and plan out how to integrate green spaces to connect surrounding building spaces and communities.

What if AI becomes our new robot overlords?

I’ve got good news for you. AI is a tool like any other computer that recognizes patterns and is particularly good at analyzing massive data sets, but for the moment it is not remotely conscious and still requires the oversight of intelligent and ethical human beings to guide its work. AI can be used to speed up the future of sustainable construction to construct sustainability standards for the construction industry, as well as make construction more efficient and affordable. All of that has to be handled with respect for humans, so it’s really up to us to make it work.

What do you think about the future of sustainable construction using AI? It might come down to how much faith you have in human nature and intelligence guiding the development of the technology and its potential uses, but that is true of every technology. Let us know your take in the comments.

Via AI Magazine

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A natural personal care brand that gives back to communities

Soapbox is a company dedicated to providing meticulously-crafted personal care products that focus on the health of humans and the environment. 

With a product line that includes hand care, hair care and bath and body care items, Soapbox targets two fundamental aspects. The first is creating high-quality personal care products that are cruelty-free, vegan and free from parabens, sulfates and silicones. The second is giving back to communities around the globe by making philanthropy effortless.

Related: Nourish your body and the planet with Gut Glow

In addition to their dedication to natural products, Soapbox embarks on an inspiring humanitarian initiative. For each product purchased, Soapbox donates a soap bar through their network of nonprofit partners, both domestically and internationally, to communities in need. By doing so, the company ensures that basic hygiene essentials are accessible to everyone. This commitment has allowed Soapbox to donate over 30 million bars of soap.

The company’s mission revolves around empowering consumers to make a positive impact through their everyday purchases. Soapbox believes that by providing an effortless way to give back, they can significantly improve the lives of others. Furthermore, they strive to protect the environment by utilizing natural ingredients and supporting local economies. A shining example of this dedication is displayed in how the company goes about giving back. Bars of soap aren’t just shipped from the manufacturing plant in the U.S.

Instead, Soapbox aims to empower communities to create their own solutions by supporting localized soapmaking efforts through training and resource management. To deepen the sustainability of these soap-making endeavors, it creates a circular economy by using recycled or otherwise locally derived soaps. Soapbox achieves these goals on a global level by partnering with organizations who actively address environmental and humanitarian challenges. Some of these nonprofits include Clean the World Foundation (CTWF), Ecosoap Bank, Rise by Sundara, World Vision and the Carter Center. 

Sustainability lies at the heart of Soapbox’s business practices, both in the hunt for ingredients and when goods are shipped out. This is seen through the use of recycled materials for packaging. It maintains transparency in its ingredient lists, proudly outlining the function of all ingredients on its FAQ page. It also freely discusses the use of lye, glycerin and sustainably-sourced palm oil. Soapbox products are gluten-free, cruelty-free and made in the USA.

As an added level of transparency, each Soapbox product comes with a unique Hope Code, which is an alpha-numerical code stamped on the bottle. The Hope Code allows customers to track which project their purchase is supporting. By entering the code, customers can see photos from that project and more information about the work being done.

Soapbox products can be found online or in beauty supply stores, pharmacies and retail establishments across the country. The company takes pride in delivering exceptional customer service and offers a satisfaction guarantee on all their products.

Soapbox products personal review

Following our initial contact, the company offered to provide samples for review. As a result, they sent a full-size bottle of shampoo, conditioner, body wash and a hair-strengthening treatment. The family got involved for this review, using the products for a few weeks in order to provide feedback. 

Collagen and Fruit Enzymes Repairing Shampoo and Conditioner

This specific shampoo and conditioner is intended to repair damaged hair and improve the health of the strands. Overall, I’m not sure I can speak to the effectiveness of each product in this respect, but combined with the product reviewed below, the course of treatment seems to be working for my situation. 

The shampoo and conditioner offer a pleasant scent, but not one that overbearingly clings to the hair. The shampoo provides a nice suds and rinses clean, while the conditioner offers a satisfying richness and smooth application. 

Let’s Bond Hair Strengthening Treatment

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this product since it’s often difficult to establish a measurement of effectiveness. However, I’m happy to report a noticeable difference in the health of my hair. For some background, we have well water and use shower filters in an attempt to sift out harsh minerals that do a number on my hair. I do not color my hair, yet often struggle with damage and dryness. After a few weeks of using Let’s Bond, I noticed my hair felt softer. Surprisingly, it also reduced oil build up in between washings. I’m guessing this is in alignment with the philosophy that properly-moisturized hair doesn’t respond by producing excessive oil in the same way dry hair does. Whatever the biology behind it, it’s been an unexpected bonus.

Watermelon and Peony body wash

Our daughter quickly adopted the body wash, happy to provide feedback in exchange. She reports an appealing but somewhat intense scent, appropriate consistency for application, and a soft, moisturizing finish. 

+ Soapbox 

Images via Soapbox 

Editor’s Note: This product review is not sponsored by Soapbox. All opinions on the products and company are the author’s own.

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Yoga Design Lab combines mindfulness with eco-friendly

As our awareness of how our actions impact the environment grows, it becomes increasingly important to integrate sustainability into all aspects of our lives. This includes the materials we choose for yoga gear. Yoga Design Lab offers a range of products that not only enhance the yoga experience, but also prioritize eco-friendly materials.

One example of Yoga Design Lab’s offerings is their eco-friendly travel mat (1.5 mm), which is crafted from natural tree rubber and bonded with a microfiber suede surface. It eliminates harmful materials such as PVC, silicone and phthalates.

Related: Kane Footwear program upcycles your shoes into yoga mats

Yoga Design Lab places a strong focus on sustainability through the use of recycled materials. Their lightweight microfiber towels are made from post-consumer recycled plastic bottles, exemplifying the brand’s commitment to reducing waste and promoting a circular economy. These towels are lightweight, absorbent and quick drying, making them ideal for yogis on the move. 

In addition, the company incorporates recycled PET into a variety of their other products, including combo mats, bags and bolsters. By repurposing plastic waste into functional yoga accessories, Yoga Design Lab not only keeps plastic out of oceans and landfills, but also provides products that perform when measured for grip, absorption and softness.

Cork, another natural material, is also a star player in Yoga Design Lab’s product lineup. Their cork mats, wheels and blocks are derived from the outer bark of the cork oak tree, employing a sustainable harvesting process that allows each tree to regenerate fully. Unlike other materials, cork is naturally antimicrobial, ensuring odors and bacteria won’t linger. It also becomes grippier as it warms up, providing stability and support during yoga sessions. 

Yoga Design Lab’s commitment to sustainable materials extends beyond their core products. They use non-toxic, water-based inks to print their designs and are actively working to update their packaging, employing recycled kraft paper labels and boxes while minimizing waste. By focusing on every detail, the brand ensures their dedication to sustainability is present throughout the entire product experience.

+ Yoga Design Lab

Images via Yoga Design Lab 

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