‘We’re all cheering for her’: time is ticking for Canada’s stranded orca orphan | Whales

In the early 1960s, Canada’s fisheries ministry installed a .50-calibre machine gun on an island in British Columbia. The weapon, typically used against armoured vehicles and low-flying aircraft, was mounted with the sole purpose of killing orcas. The high-powered gun was never used, but the message was clear: the whales, derisively called “blackfish”, were the enemy.

Now, six decades later and less than 100 miles away from where the gun was mounted, that same ministry has joined residents of a remote community in a frantic attempt to rescue a stranded orca calf.

For the last two weeks, the two-year-old calf has been trapped in a lagoon off the wind-battered west coast of Vancouver Island. Immense resources from Indigenous communities and Canada’s federal fisheries department have been marshalled to rescue the calf, which has been named kʷiisaḥiʔis (pronounced kwee-sahay-is), by local First Nations – a name that roughly translates to Brave Little Hunter. Amid the intensifying effort to free her, the outpouring of community support highlights a dramatic shift in public perceptions of the whales, from nuisances to be culled into beloved individuals worthy of a challenging and costly rescue.

The Vancouver Island lagoon where the orca calf is stranded. Photograph: Canadian Press/REX/Shutterstock

The saga began on 23 March when residents of a coastal community along the north-western reaches of Vancouver Island spotted an orca trapped on shore. It is unclear why the orcas entered the lagoon, but the remains of a harbour seal nearby suggest to experts the stranding may have been the result of a hunt gone wrong. Locals worked, unsuccessfully, for hours to rescue the 14-year-old mother, named Spong, who was trapped in a trough-like depression on the shore. Kʷiisaḥiʔis watched helplessly as her mother struggled, and cries of distress were heard from hydrophones placed in the water. Glen McCall, one of the first on scene, called the immense emotional and physical toll of the failed rescue an “absolutely horrible” experience.

In the weeks since, every attempt to lure her out, including the use of vocalisations from family members, banging metal pipes and laying ropes with floats attached, have all failed. But the calf desperately needs nutrition. While she seems healthy, experts caution that her health could decline quickly in the coming days.

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In the days since Spong’s death and the collective rescue effort, kʷiisaḥiʔis has carried the weight of a community’s hope. Every few minutes, her narrow black dorsal fin breaks the surface of the lagoon near the village of Zeballos. What follows is a misty exhalation from the orca – and a collective sigh of relief from the dozens of experts glued to her every movement, and from the global audience heavily invested in the whale’s plight.

“I was out there the day the mother got stranded, and it really left a mark on me,” said Chris Copeland, who uses the Facebook page of a local inn to chronicle the health of the calf. The updates, he’s learned, are read all over the globe. “With the way the world is these days, I think people just really want something to hope for. We’re all cheering for the little whale.”

On the bridge that separates the lagoon from the Little Espinosa Inlet, cedar boughs hung by the Ehattesaht First Nation highlight the high cultural stakes of the rescue: the origin stories of the Nuu-chah-nulth people tell of a killer whale coming on to land and transforming into a wolf, which itself transforms into a human.

Last week, the Ehattesaht First Nation, alongside the neighbouring Nuchatlaht First Nation, launched a canoe into the lagoon in an attempt to draw the calf closer with their drumming, a “powerful” moment on the water. “Every discussion and the resulting decisions are guided by one single principle: what is the safest for [the calf] and has the most probability for success,” the Ehattesaht chief and council said on Thursday.

Paul Cottrell, one of the country’s most experienced whale rescuers, told reporters he had never worked on a mission so “difficult and complex” as the attempt to free kʷiisaḥiʔis.

“Time is of the essence for this calf, we know that, and the planning is well along, but we do have a little bit more planning, equipment and logistics to work out,” he said.

On Thursday, Cottrell and Ehattesaht chief Simon John announced a plan to trap kʷiisaḥiʔis next week if the whale doesn’t escape the lagoon on her own. Using seine nets, the team would probably guide the calf into a sling, transporting her on a truck and then releasing her into an open-water pen – a series of carefully orchestrated movements that cannot take longer than a few hours.

Flowers for a pregnant orca mother who died after being caught when the tide went out are left next to the lagoon off Vancouver Island. Photograph: Canadian Press/REX/Shutterstock

But rescuing the calf from the lagoon is only the first step. Once safe, she needs to be reunited with family in order to survive in the open ocean. The rescue team plans to hold her in a pen used for salmon farming until relatives are close enough for a release.

While dozens of experts, including vets and drone operators, closely monitor the calf’s health, the team is also drawing on communities and whale-watching boats on Vancouver Island’s west coast in an attempt to locate the family. Whale research group Bay Cetology has opened to the public its online AI-assisted photo database of all the region’s whales in an attempt to track the calf’s relatives.

The ability to identify whales by distinct markings, a technique developed more than half a century ago, marks a pivotal moment for how the public began to understand orcas as distinct, highly intelligent and social mammals, says John Ford, a leading expert and scientist emeritus with the federal fisheries department.

“Over the years, they were feared by fishermen in the region just because they’re a large, dangerous-looking animal with big teeth,” he said. Hastily devised plans like the machine gun reflected both the frustration and fear the whales elicited. “But once you could start identifying every whale along the coast, they became individuals.”

Despite the overwhelming odds against the rescue attempt, Ford sees glimmers of hope. Brave Little Hunter is a Bigg’s killer whale, an ecotype of the species that has different social structures than the endangered southern resident whales. With movement of Bigg’s whales to different pods, the calf might be able to link up with members of its extended family if it can leave the inlet.

The tireless efforts to save the calf don’t come as a surprise to Ford, who has assisted on previous local rescue attempts. “For an individual to be orphaned and on its own, people feel empathy and want to help. It’s just human nature,” he said. “This is not just a generic whale stuck inland. We know who it is and where it should be. And many people would like to see it back with its family.”

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2020 at The Green Project—Looking back on a momentous year — the Green Project

In 2020, despite being closed for 4.5 months, we reclaimed…

  • 1,879 doors

  • 15,027 linear feet of lumber

  • 14,761 linear feet of molding

  • Over 500 windows

  • 4,121 pieces of tile

  • 2,855 gallons of paint

And much, much more! Tab through the slideshow above to see more of our progress and accomplishments in 2020.

As we wrap up this year, we are immensely thankful for the support of our community—from our customers, to donors, to financial contributors. Without you, there is no Green Project. Thank you for your continued support over the past 26 years. Here’s to a new year, hope, growth and joy!

With gratitude,

Hailey Allison
Executive Director

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The Benefits of Joining a Sustainable Living Association

Are you looking to make a positive impact on the environment and live a more sustainable lifestyle? Joining a sustainable living Association could be the perfect way to start your journey towards a greener future. The Benefits of Joining a Sustainable Living Association are numerous and can have a lasting impact on both the planet and your own well-being.

One of the key benefits of joining a Sustainable Living Association is the sense of community and support that comes with being part of a like-minded group. By connecting with others who share your passion for sustainability, you can exchange ideas, resources, and tips for living a more eco-friendly lifestyle. As environmental activist Greta Thunberg once said, “We need everyone to join together and take action to protect our planet.” By joining a Sustainable Living Association, you can be a part of this collective effort to make a difference.

Another benefit of joining a Sustainable Living Association is the educational opportunities that come with membership. Many associations offer workshops, seminars, and other events that can help you learn more about sustainable living practices and how to incorporate them into your daily life. By educating yourself about the benefits of sustainable living, you can make more informed choices that have a positive impact on the environment. As renowned environmentalist Jane Goodall once said, “What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”

In addition to the sense of community and educational opportunities, joining a Sustainable Living Association can also provide you with access to resources and discounts that can help you live more sustainably. Many associations partner with eco-friendly businesses to offer their members special deals on products and services that promote sustainability. By taking advantage of these resources, you can make it easier and more affordable to adopt green practices in your everyday life.

If you’re ready to take the next step towards living a more sustainable lifestyle, consider joining a Sustainable Living Association today. By connecting with like-minded individuals, educating yourself about sustainable living practices, and accessing valuable resources, you can make a real difference for the planet and future generations. Join the movement for sustainable living and start making a positive impact today!

For more information on sustainable living and how you can get involved, visit the Planetary Citizens website at sustainable living. Together, we can create a more sustainable future for all.

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10 Easy Ways to Adopt Sustainable Living Practices

Are you looking to make a positive impact on the environment? One way to do this is by adopting sustainable living practices. By making small changes in your daily routine, you can help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. In this article, we will discuss 10 easy ways to adopt sustainable living practices.

1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: One of the simplest ways to live sustainably is by following the three Rs – reduce, reuse, and recycle. By reducing your consumption, reusing items whenever possible, and recycling materials, you can minimize waste and conserve resources.

According to environmentalist and author, Bea Johnson, “By practicing the three Rs, we can significantly reduce our impact on the planet and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.”

2. Conserve Energy: Another important aspect of sustainable living is conserving energy. You can do this by turning off lights and electronics when not in use, using energy-efficient appliances, and installing programmable thermostats.

As energy expert, Amory Lovins, suggests, “By being mindful of our energy consumption, we can reduce our carbon emissions and lower our utility bills at the same time.”

3. Use Eco-Friendly Products: When shopping for household items, look for eco-friendly alternatives. Choose products that are made from sustainable materials, such as bamboo or recycled plastic, and are free from harmful chemicals.

According to sustainability advocate, Lauren Singer, “Switching to eco-friendly products is a simple way to support companies that prioritize environmental responsibility.”

4. Eat a Plant-Based Diet: Adopting a plant-based diet is not only beneficial for your health, but also for the planet. By reducing your meat consumption and incorporating more fruits, vegetables, and grains into your meals, you can reduce your carbon footprint and support sustainable agriculture.

Renowned chef and environmentalist, Jamie Oliver, explains, “Eating a plant-based diet is one of the most effective ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.”

5. Compost Food Waste: Instead of throwing away food scraps, consider composting them. Composting is a natural process that breaks down organic matter into nutrient-rich soil, which can be used to fertilize gardens and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers.

As per composting expert, Marion Owen, “Composting food waste is a simple and effective way to divert organic materials from landfills and create a closed-loop system for nutrient recycling.”

6. Support Local Farmers: When shopping for groceries, try to buy locally grown produce and support small-scale farmers in your community. By doing so, you can reduce the carbon emissions associated with transportation and help sustain local agriculture.

Environmental economist, Elinor Ostrom, emphasizes, “Supporting local farmers not only promotes food security and economic resilience, but also fosters a sense of community and connection to the land.”

7. Reduce Water Usage: Conserving water is another key aspect of sustainable living. You can do this by fixing leaky faucets, taking shorter showers, and installing water-saving fixtures in your home.

According to water conservationist, Peter Gleick, “By using water more efficiently, we can protect this precious resource for future generations and ensure a sustainable supply for all.”

8. Opt for Public Transportation: Instead of driving everywhere, consider using public transportation, biking, or walking whenever possible. By reducing your reliance on cars, you can lower your carbon emissions and reduce air pollution.

Urban planner, Jan Gehl, states, “Promoting sustainable transportation options is essential for creating livable cities and reducing congestion, emissions, and noise pollution.”

9. Support Renewable Energy: Investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, is a great way to support sustainable living. By generating clean energy on-site or purchasing renewable energy credits, you can reduce your reliance on fossil fuels and support the transition to a low-carbon economy.

Renewable energy advocate, Bill McKibben, believes, “Transitioning to renewable energy is crucial for addressing climate change and creating a more sustainable energy system for future generations.”

10. Educate Yourself and Others: Finally, one of the most important ways to adopt sustainable living practices is by educating yourself and sharing your knowledge with others. Stay informed about environmental issues, participate in community initiatives, and inspire those around you to take action.

As environmental activist, Greta Thunberg, famously said, “The climate crisis is a global emergency that requires urgent action from all individuals and governments. We must educate ourselves and demand change for a sustainable future.”

By following these 10 easy ways to adopt sustainable living practices, you can make a positive impact on the environment and contribute to a more sustainable future for all. For more information on sustainable living and environmental conservation, visit Planetary Citizens.

References:

– Johnson, B. (2013). Zero waste home: The ultimate guide to simplifying your life by reducing your waste. Simon and Schuster.

– Lovins, A. (2011). Reinventing fire: Bold business solutions for the new energy era. Chelsea Green Publishing.

– Singer, L. (2019). Zero waste essentials: Simple steps for a joyful and sustainable life. Ten Speed Press.

– Owen, M. (2007). Chicken soup for the gardener’s soul: Stories to sow seeds of love, hope and laughter. HCI.

– Ostrom, E. (1990). Governing the commons: The evolution of institutions for collective action. Cambridge University Press.

– Gleick, P. (2018). The world’s water volume 8: The biennial report on freshwater resources. Island Press.

– Gehl, J. (2010). Cities for people. Island Press.

– McKibben, B. (2018). Falter: Has the human game begun to play itself out?. Macmillan.

– Thunberg, G. (2019). No one is too small to make a difference. Penguin.

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Free Paint for New Orleans Residents — the Green Project

For the fourth year, The Green Project is partnering with the City of New Orleans Department of Sanitation on a Paint Reclamation Project at Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Materials Collection Day.

At the City’s Annual HHW Materials Collection Day (scheduled for Saturday, May 8, 2021 from 8:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at 2829 Elysian Fields Ave.), Orleans Parish residents drop off a significant amount of paint.

The project diverts usable paint from disposal; provides residents with usable paint, free of charge; offers New Orleans residents a way to recycle some household hazardous waste; and protects our environment.

HOW IT WORKS

Usable water-based and oil-based paint will be reclaimed, sorted into like colors, and available for the community to pick up for free. Open to all residents in Orleans Parish. No sign up required; drop in during the hours listed below:


FREE PAINT PICK UP LOCATION, DATES & TIMES

Tuesday, May 18th – Saturday May 22nd
9:00AM – 1:00PM
2829 Elysian Fields
**First come, first served. No sign up required!

GUIDELINES

  • Paint can only be picked up during the days and times listed above.

  • Once taken off-site, paint cannot be returned to the Recycling Drop Off Center or The Green Project.

  • It is the responsibility of those picking up paint to check for final quality and color determinations, based on their needs.

ABOUT HHW COLLECTION DAY

Saturday, May 8th | 8am-1pm | 2829 Elysian Fields

Paint can only be dropped off to the Department of Sanitation on designated HHW Collection Days.

The May 8th HHW drop off day is for Orleans Parish residents only. Businesses and organizations cannot drop off paint. For information on the event and other Department of Sanitation programming, visit the Department of Sanitation’s Website or email [email protected].

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Scientists confirm record highs for three most important heat-trapping gases | Greenhouse gas emissions

The levels of the three most important heat-trapping gases in the atmosphere reached new record highs again last year, US scientists have confirmed, underlining the escalating challenge posed by the climate crisis.

The global concentration of carbon dioxide, the most important and prevalent of the greenhouse gases emitted by human activity, rose to an average of 419 parts per million in the atmosphere in 2023 while methane, a powerful if shorter-lasting greenhouse gas, rose to an average of 1922 parts per billion. Levels of nitrous oxide, the third most significant human-caused warming emission, climbed slightly to 336 parts per billion.

The increases do not quite match the record jumps seen in recent years, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (Noaa), but still represent a major change in the composition of the atmosphere even from just a decade ago.

Through the burning of fossil fuels, animal agriculture and deforestation, the world’s CO2 levels are now more than 50% higher than they were before the era of mass industrialization. Methane, which comes from sources including oil and gas drilling and livestock, has surged even more dramatically in recent years, Noaa said, and now has atmospheric concentrations 160% larger than in pre-industrial times.

Noaa said the onward march of greenhouse gas levels was due to the continued use of fossil fuels, as well as the impact of wildfires, which spew carbon-laden smoke into the air. Nitrous oxide, meanwhile, has risen due to the widespread use of nitrogen fertilizer and the intensification of agriculture.

“As these numbers show, we still have a lot of work to do to make meaningful progress in reducing the amount of greenhouse gases accumulating in the atmosphere,” said Vanda Grubišić, director of Noaa’s global monitoring laboratory.

The increasing presence of greenhouse gases is spurring a rise in global temperature – last year was the hottest ever measured worldwide – and well as associated impacts such as floods, droughts, heatwaves and wildfires.

It is also pushing the world into a state not seen since prior to human civilization. Carbon dioxide levels today are now comparable to what they were around 4m years ago, Noaa said, an era when sea were around 75ft higher than they are today, the average temperature was far hotter and large forests occupied areas of the now-frozen Arctic.

Because of a lag between CO2 levels and their impact, as well as the hundreds of years that the emissions remain in the atmosphere, the timescale of the climate crisis is enormous. Scientists have warned that governments need to rapidly slash emissions to net zero, and then start removing carbon from the atmosphere to bring down future temperature increases.

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10 Sustainable Living Innovations That Are Changing the World

sustainable living is more important now than ever before, as our planet faces increasing environmental challenges. Fortunately, there are many innovative solutions being developed that are changing the world for the better. In this article, we will explore 10 sustainable living innovations that are making a positive impact on the planet.

One of the key sustainable living innovations that is gaining popularity is the use of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power. According to a report by the International Energy Agency, renewable energy is the fastest-growing energy source in the world and is set to overtake coal as the largest source of power by 2025. This shift towards renewable energy is crucial in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change.

Another important sustainable living innovation is the development of eco-friendly transportation options, such as electric vehicles and public transportation systems. Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular due to their lower carbon emissions and lower operating costs compared to traditional gas-powered vehicles. According to a report by Bloomberg New Energy Finance, electric vehicles are expected to make up 57% of all passenger vehicle sales by 2040.

In the realm of sustainable living, sustainable agriculture is also a key focus area. Sustainable agriculture practices such as organic farming, crop rotation, and water conservation help to protect the environment and ensure the long-term viability of our food supply. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, sustainable agriculture is essential for feeding the world’s growing population while preserving natural resources.

One of the most exciting sustainable living innovations is the development of smart home technology. Smart home devices such as energy-efficient appliances, smart thermostats, and solar panels help to reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. According to a report by the International Energy Agency, smart home technology has the potential to reduce energy consumption by up to 30%.

Water conservation is another important aspect of sustainable living. Innovations such as rainwater harvesting systems, water-efficient fixtures, and drought-resistant landscaping help to reduce water waste and preserve this precious resource. According to the World Wildlife Fund, water scarcity affects more than 40% of the global population and is projected to worsen in the coming years.

In the realm of sustainable living, waste reduction and recycling are also key focus areas. Innovations such as composting, recycling programs, and zero-waste initiatives help to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, recycling one ton of paper saves 17 trees, 7,000 gallons of water, and 463 gallons of oil.

Another important sustainable living innovation is the development of sustainable fashion. Sustainable fashion brands use eco-friendly materials, ethical production practices, and fair labor standards to create clothing that is better for the planet and the people who make it. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, the fashion industry is one of the largest polluters in the world, but sustainable fashion has the potential to change that.

In the realm of sustainable living, green building practices are also gaining momentum. Green buildings use energy-efficient materials, passive design strategies, and renewable energy systems to reduce their environmental impact. According to the U.S. Green Building Council, green buildings can reduce energy consumption by up to 50% and water consumption by up to 40%.

Food waste reduction is another important sustainable living innovation. Innovations such as food sharing apps, composting programs, and kitchen waste recycling help to reduce the amount of food that ends up in landfills. According to the World Food Programme, one-third of all food produced globally is wasted, which has a significant environmental and social impact.

In conclusion, these 10 sustainable living innovations are just a few examples of the many ways that individuals and organizations are working to create a more sustainable future for our planet. By embracing these innovations and making sustainable choices in our daily lives, we can all make a positive impact on the environment and help to create a more sustainable world for future generations.

For more information on sustainable living and how you can get involved, visit Planetary Citizens at sustainable living. Let’s work together to change the world for the better!

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Sustainable Living Festival 2024: Celebrating Eco-Friendly Living

The sustainable living Festival 2024 is just around the corner, and eco-conscious individuals are gearing up to celebrate all things green and sustainable. This annual event is a gathering of like-minded individuals who are passionate about living a more eco-friendly lifestyle. From renewable energy solutions to zero-waste practices, the festival showcases the latest innovations in sustainable living.

According to environmental expert, Jane Goodall, “The Sustainable Living Festival is a wonderful opportunity for people to come together and learn how they can make a positive impact on the planet. It’s inspiring to see so many individuals dedicated to creating a more sustainable future.”

The festival will feature interactive workshops, informative panels, and engaging activities for attendees of all ages. From composting demonstrations to upcycling workshops, there will be something for everyone to learn and enjoy. Key figures in the sustainability movement will also be in attendance, sharing their insights and expertise on how to live a more eco-friendly life.

One of the highlights of the Sustainable Living Festival 2024 will be the eco-friendly marketplace, where attendees can shop for sustainable products and connect with local vendors who are committed to reducing their environmental impact. From organic skincare products to ethically-sourced clothing, there will be a wide range of eco-friendly goods available for purchase.

“We are thrilled to be a part of the Sustainable Living Festival 2024,” says eco-conscious entrepreneur, Sarah Smith. “It’s a great opportunity to showcase our sustainable products and connect with like-minded individuals who share our passion for eco-friendly living.”

As we look towards a more sustainable future, events like the Sustainable Living Festival play a crucial role in raising awareness and inspiring positive change. By coming together to celebrate eco-friendly living, we can create a more sustainable world for future generations to enjoy.

If you’re interested in learning more about sustainable living and how you can make a difference, be sure to check out the Sustainable Living Festival 2024. For more information, visit the official website at [Planetary Citizens](https://planetarycitizens.org/). Let’s celebrate eco-friendly living together!

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Shower power: Australian bathrooms are wasting energy and increasing your costs | Energy efficiency

A long shower at the end of the day might be a relaxing escape from reality, but there is a reason to stay alert. Energy efficiency experts say the way Australian bathrooms are being built will drain your wallet – and the environment.

Alan Pears, a senior industry fellow at RMIT who helped develop Australia’s appliance energy star ratings, describes showers as “almost perfectly designed to waste energy and make you feel uncomfortable”. He says bathrooms lack “basic design principles” and are often cold and poorly ventilated, which exacerbates hot water use.

When cold air enters shower cubicles, hot air rises, he says, resulting in a “slightly hotter top half, making you feel even colder because your legs are freezing”.

Under changes to the national construction code introduced in 2022, exhaust fans will be required to continue to run for 10 minutes after the lights are turned off, in order to ensure moisture and odours are removed after a person leaves the room. Though some states are yet to introduce the changes, they should all be in line by next year.

The amendment was introduced to reduce condensation buildup and its associated risks, like mould, in bathrooms, affecting major renovations and new builds. But the requirement will make bathrooms colder and therefore increase hot water use, particularly if exhaust fans are located near the tops of shower cubicles, Pears says.

Tim Forcey, an energy efficiency adviser and author, says “there’s nothing less comfortable than having to have a shower in a big open space on a cold winter morning”. The solution, he says, is to better contain heat in shower cubicles.

Showerdomes, a New Zealand invention, are essentially a lid placed on top of a shower. They eliminate the need for additional heating or cooling of a bathroom by preventing warm air from being sucked up into the ceiling exhaust fan and into the roof.

Forcey, who has one in his home in Melbourne’s Bayside, says with a dome “you’re warm in a split second”. They cost about $300, provided you install it yourself.

Showerdome converts are effusive in their praise, but some users say the devices make their bathroom “feel like a sauna”.

Though Forcey says a Showerdome – or something similar to it, made of Corflute – could negate the need for bathroom exhaust fans, Gary Rake, the CEO of the Australian Buildings Code Board, says it would not be enough to waive the requirements.

Instead, an assessment could be sought to determine whether or not the Showerdome satisfies ventilation requirements.

According to Pears, problems relating to excess moisture, such as the growth of mould and mildew, have escalated over the last 20 years due to houses being less “leaky”.

To cut energy use and save money, Forcey and Pears advise against heated towel rails, ducted heating and heated floors. They recommend using a more energy-efficient radiator to heat bathrooms when needed and for shower walls to be built with thinner insulating material (instead of glass) to ensure walls warm up faster.

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Pears attributes poor bathroom design to building codes which focus on water temperatures instead of preventing cool air from entering shower cubicles. He says this is due to an Australian culture of “regulations that cover the bare minimum”.

For instance, there is no requirement that showers have a properly sealed door – or a door at all – which would prevent cold air from mixing with hot air and producing steam.

In the process of attempting to solve problems, some solutions have created some of their own. Prompted by the need to reduce water use during droughts, the mandatory shift to energy-efficient shower heads has incidentally led people to increase their energy consumption.

More energy-efficient shower heads release less hot water a minute, producing less heat, which Pears says prompts people to shower at higher temperatures.

According to researchers from Monash University, those who used five-star rated shower heads increased their shower temperatures by one to two degrees. The authors wrote in the Conversation that “shower head manufacturers … aren’t promoting efficient shower heads because they don’t respond to demand”.

“A lot of people in the building industry are opposed to making buildings work better … [seeing changes] as an extra cost on the homebuyer and more complications for the builder to have to meet,” Pears says.

He also criticises the siloed nature of government, which he says is ineffective in improving housing, which requires a multifaceted effort.

“Upgrading housing is about social justice, it’s about health care, it’s about saving carbon emissions,” he says.

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Passing the torch — the Green Project

To our Green Project community,

This June, I will say farewell to The Green Project as I embark on a new adventure in Columbus, OH. 

I started at the organization in 2018 as Communications Coordinator and a part-time cashier. I had the privilege of getting to know our customers, hear their stories and how they planned to use the materials they found. I got to know our vibrant staff and the creative culture that makes The Green Project the inspiring place that it is. 

With a background in nonprofit administration, I moved into a Communications & Development Manager position after a few months and was later granted the opportunity to lead the organization as Executive Director. I’ve dedicated much of my time to developing systems and strategies that help staff execute their roles and help the organization thrive. 

We’ve faced numerous challenges over the past two years, but today have an amazing, committed staff and are in a stronger position than before. I’m thrilled to pass the torch to another qualified candidate that will build upon this foundation and take the organization to new heights (see the position posting here).

It has been a privilege to serve The Green Project and the community in this capacity. I look forward to what TGP’s future holds. 

With gratitude,
Hailey Allison

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