Dec, 2022

Sanitation By Phytodepuration: Advantages And Disadvantages

Phytodepuration is a method of wastewater treatment without a septic tank. Used for more than 20 years, this ecological sanitation is adapted to grey water and black water. Designed to treat domestic wastewater, this method goes far beyond the septic tank because of its advantages. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this blog and learn some of the things you need to know about sanitation by phytodepuration.

Ecological

We only have one habitable (as far as we know) planet in our solar system, but we treat it as if we have other backup plans. We need to start treating it properly before it is too late. Phytodepuration allows the collection of water to come straight from the toilet, the bathroom, and the kitchen. 100% ecological, this natural mechanism uses planted filters. Plant species are carefully selected to naturally treat the nitrates and phosphates in the wastewater. The roots of these plants take care of the absorption and digestion of the polluting loads.

With the phyto-purification system, the pollution of the surface and the groundwater is reduced by itself. As no energy is needed, the water cycle is reintroduced into our daily life. Even for watering the vegetation above the pond, you can use the naturally filtered water in the second pond.

Low maintenance

Easier to maintain and less expensive than a conventional septic tank, this device has a long life span: 40 years. Unlike a septic tank that requires annual emptying, it requires only simple gardening work such as pruning, mowing, and weeding. As for maintenance, you only need to remove the sludge composted on the surface of the filter every ten years.

In addition, this type of sanitation is eligible for the eco-loan at zero rates. As this method does not need electrical energy to operate, it is not energy-consuming.

Beautiful to see

As part of the installation of sanitation by phyto-purification, the technician plants a mix of aquatic plants. In the hands of an excellent landscaper specialized in the design and creation of green spaces, your garden will keep its greenery while adding the color of reed flowers, cattail, yellow iris, scented acore, sedge, common rush… These vegetations will ensure the treatment of large particles, pollutants, and composts.

Few risks

As the bacteria work in good condition, there is no risk of smelling bad odors with this sanitation. Installed in the open air, this device even produces organic matter. It is true that you will smell some odors at the beginning of the operation of this installation, but they will disappear once the reeds invade the surface of the filter.

You also won’t attract flies and mosquitoes. Mosquitoes only lay eggs and breed on standing water, whereas in a wetland, not even a drop of water is visible. Since a safety grate is installed on the wetland, there is no risk of children or pets drowning.

Large area required

A septic system is not for everyone, especially for city dwellers whose homes and subdivisions are connected to the sewer system. A small piece of garden, about 3 m², is, in fact, necessary for the installation of the device. However, it takes up less space than a sand filter because the sewage garden requires 10 m² per filter.

Nevertheless, the inhabitants of villages that do not benefit from collective sanitation can take advantage of this individual sanitation device. After two years of use, they even have the possibility to recover the compost from the pond for their ornamental plants. As for the older homes with septic tanks, the presence of a specialist in phytodepuration is essential. Moreover, the installation of a phyto-purification system is ideally placed on sloping ground. If there is no slope, a lifting pump is necessary.

Sound off in the comments section below, and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about sustainability.

Oct, 2022

How to Explain Global Warming to Children

There are indisputable facts, and there are embellished facts for children. Many adults don’t know how to talk about global warming with young children. When words are lacking, then the right gestures must be passed on because they often explain better than words.

After years of neglect and opulence, we are living in a world of transition where ecology is now taking an important place. Our children will be the first generation to suffer the consequences of our actions. As such, they need to know and understand what global warming is and what it does. Here is how to talk to them about the ecological emergency.

Don’t scare them, but make them understand the magnitude of things.

Are they aware of the current situation? How do they live it?

Fires are blazing all over the planet; drought is getting more intense every summer; storms are becoming more and more numerous; icebergs are melting in plain sight… Children see it and suffer from it too.

Talking about the end of the world or the extinction of the human race does not make sense. Indeed, to make a child panic will only frighten him and probably make him do nothing. On the contrary, explaining that there are simple steps to take is essential. The ones you already practice in your daily life, for example. Please explain why you sort your waste, why there is so much plastic in the ocean, why it is crucial to avoid single-use plastic, etc.

Books to help parents find the right words

Some parents think that children are too young to understand the importance of global warming. On the contrary, they will be the first to be concerned and must understand the situation’s stakes very early on.

Far from demonizing things, global warming is explained with accurate and straightforward words. Hearing about disasters all the time can also quickly worry children in the wrong way. Positive communication is the key. They respond better to a message, even if it is disturbing when explained with plenty of solutions.

How will you do this?

Tell a story. Ideally, this is the best way to capture their attention and help them put together the puzzle between real life and fiction. For example, you can start by explaining to children the importance of ecosystems. The fact that even though they are different, they work together to create a real balance.

Older kids tend to take it to the next level by directly asking the question, “What is global warming? “. To illustrate, tell them that the Earth is sick and has a fever. So is he when he is in the same situation. The planet has a temperature, so it is scorching; this is called global warming.

It’s a safe bet that the next question will be, “Why?” Again, the answer is to explain that it’s mostly our fault because our lives generate too many greenhouse gases. You won’t have to do a monologue. Children understand very well and often lead the questioning. You have to find stories and metaphors to picture things in their minds.

Reassure children, but make them aware that their behavior is important.

After painting a rather bleak picture of the situation, it’s time to explain that they have a role to play in remedying this and healing the planet.

They also must be reassured that adults and children worldwide are working together to improve things and protect the planet. There are things we can do on our own and things that need to be done on a more significant level.

Drawings to express their feelings

Many children express their thoughts and feelings through drawings. It is, therefore, essential to let them express themselves through this medium.

Remember to set a good example.

Children adore their parents and often take them as an example. In this sense, show them the model to become a superhero of the planet. Sort, compost, limit car trips, pick up paper from the ground, buy less plastic, etc.

Apr, 2022

5 Most Sustainable Countries In The World

Now more than ever, more and more people and nations are concerned about the future of our planet; as far as most of us know, Earth is the only planet that is habitable to human beings, and we need to start treating it as such. Going green is something that all of us should strive to achieve, and this is why countries are being held responsible for their actions.

It is primordial for all countries to move towards going green and reverse the effect of global warming as much as humanly possible. The counties are ranked according to the EPI or the Environmental Performance Index. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this blog and learn more about some of the most sustainable countries around the globe.

1. Sweden

It is considered by far the most sustainable country in the world and has the highest renewable energy usage in the world, and is among of one the countries that have the lowest carbon emission. Sweden is also known to have one of the best educational systems in the world, and environmental consciousness is one thing that they are taught.

By 2045, Sweden has vouched to reduce their carbon emission by 85 to 100%. More than half of the energy consumption in the country is produced by renewable energy, and it has lowered its emission through the use of electric buses, urban farming, and smart roads. They have also achieved sustainability by having food banks, gender equality, recycling systems, and housing for vulnerable people.

2. Japan

In my opinion, Japan is one of the most beautiful countries out there, and it is known for its innovations. It has planned to have 50% of its new cars produce zero carbon emissions within the next 10 years. Vehicles are one of the main creators of carbon emissions in the world, and this is why more and more countries are turning towards hybrid and electric cars to try to reduce this.

Japan’s biggest cities are also trying to cut down on their carbon emission, and they are aiming to be 100% carbon emission-free by 2050. Japan also has one of the best recycling systems around the world, and it currently has around 10 different categories of recyclable. Japan is slowly paving its way to the top of the ladder when it comes to the sustainability ladder.

3. Canada

It is one of the most diverse countries in the world and is currently working to become one of the most sustainable countries in the world. It aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emission by 30% by 2030. It is also committed to researching sustainable living, energy solutions, and environmental sustainability.

One thing about being a sustainable nation also includes treating your workforce and citizens equally and not putting one group on a pedestal. This is seen in Canada’s governance and how it is trying to be a more sustainable nation. Canada is also continuously trying to improve its social sustainability with a decrease in poverty and a push towards sustainability.

4. Denmark

It is one of the more sustainable countries around the globe and is currently the leader in wind power. More than half of the energy produced in the country is thanks to wind power, and this is because you can find wind turbines throughout the country, and it is almost like a landmark of this particular sustainable nation.

Copenhagen is also considered one of the largest green cities in the world, and it plans to be completely carbon neutral by 2025. Denmark also has around half of its energy supplied by renewable sources, and this is due to the usage and rise in popularity of bikes across the nation; thanks to this, the country’s carbon emission has decreased.

5. Norway

Norway is another one of the most sustainable countries around the globe, and its parliament has pledged to be entirely carbon neutral by 2030. It also has one of the most efficient recycling systems in the world, second only to Japan, and has even incorporated composting into its agenda. It also uses hydroelectricity to power itself, which works especially well due to its rainy climate.

Sound off in the comments section below and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about the most sustainable countries in the world.

Apr, 2022

Waste Recovery: Taking Care Of The Planet And Its Wallet

The safeguarding of the planet is nowadays at the heart of all discussions. Indeed, several actions are carried out in this direction by the leaders in the world. These actions have led to the creation of innovative techniques whose role is to ensure the protection of the planet. This is the case of waste recovery. If, like many, you do not know what is the recovery of waste and its usefulness, no need to worry. Discover in this article some answers.

What is waste recovery?

The definition of this technique varies from one recycling specialist to another. Also known as waste reclamation, this technique is a set of processes aimed at transforming waste into another material usable by humans. Indeed, this waste can be changed into any type of material and energy product.

According to ADEME (Agency of Environment and Energy Management), the recovery of waste is subject to another definition. It considers a technique promoting the reuse and recycling of waste, reusable materials, and energy. For this agency, waste recovery is quite economical in raw materials and respects the environment.

The law that introduced waste recovery came into force on July 13, 1992. Since then, this method has been extremely successful. There are several reasons for this. The main one is that this method brings an added value to the waste by removing it from the collection and treatment circuits. Thus, the recovery of waste is totally opposed to its elimination.

What are the different types of waste recovery?

Over time, waste recovery has improved. Indeed, it knew some contributions and modifications. Today, this technique is declined in various forms. To be more precise, it exists under three types: material recovery, organic recovery, and energy recovery. In a few lines, here is a presentation of each of these varieties of waste recovery.

The material recovery

The material recovery takes into account partially or entirely a material (waste). This type of waste recovery inserts the said material into a new production process. For example, let’s take the example of used plastic bottles. These are melted down in order to be transformed into synthetic fibers. This waste is used for a different purpose.

Organic recovery

Organic recovery is a technique that works in a slightly different way. Indeed, it uses two methods, composting and methanization. The waste is transformed into compost and is used to regenerate the soil. This waste can also be transformed into methane. Methane can be used as natural gas.

Energy recovery

Like organic recovery, energetic recovery has a particular way of working. In this case, the waste is incinerated in specially designed furnaces. The heat from this combustion is used to supply heating systems. It can even be used to supply electricity to homes.

What is the purpose of waste recovery?

As you can already imagine, waste recovery has many advantages. To begin with, it allows us to protect the environment and save the planet on which we live. Indeed, this technique allows reducing the quantity of waste present on earth considerably. Some studies estimate its reduction rate at 70%.

The recovery of waste allows us to save the planet; it guarantees better health to its inhabitants. This technique is also economical. It allows reducing the amount of fuel bills since it produces fuel. In summary, we can say that waste recovery is a beneficial technique on various levels. Indeed, it takes care of the planet and its wallet.

Thrift

Second-hand does not have the bad image it had 20 years ago. The shame of wearing clothes already used by others is over, and this act has become trendy from a clothing point of view, ecological and political. Fed up with overconsumption, let’s change things!

You will find vintage stores everywhere that offer you nuggets at very (very) affordable prices. Go to second-hand bookstores, where you will find the latest Marc Levy, the first Balzac, and lost pockets that are just waiting for you to relive their stories. This is a trend that has been accelerated by the health crisis, as people are becoming more and more aware.

Spend an hour on online resale sites before going to the store to buy a new TV, there are probably people who are reselling theirs and will go buy another one, but with the one you’re taking back, that’s still one less in the garbage.

Sound off in the comments section below and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about being eco-friendly.

Mar, 2022

Top 5 Things Everyone Can Do To Save Our Planet

As far as we are concerned, there is only one planet with a livable atmosphere that can sustain human life, but we are out there acting like we have several options if this planet dies out. We only have one planet, and we need to start to act like it and start taking steps to be more ecologically friendly. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this blog and learn some of the things that everyone can do to save other Earth.

1. Eat local and in season

It sounds silly when you say it like that, but eating oranges in July or strawberries in winter is not normal. So let’s stop trying to satisfy our desires with impunity and get back to a natural rhythm: let’s eat tangerines in December and strawberries in May (with whipped cream). You will have only benefits, both in terms of your health (fruits and vegetables will have more vitamins), your taste buds (more taste in foods that had seen the sun when they needed it), and your ecological conscience (no need to bring strawberries from Kenya and pollute the planet excessively).

2. Repair rather than throw away

Programmed obsolescence has changed the way we consume. If our grandfathers and grandmothers used to repair their socks with holes and their washing machines, today we throw away and buyback. The big companies have managed their business well and charge more for a repair part than for a new machine. Let’s unite against this obsolescence that pollutes everything, and let’s repair what we can.

Let’s relearn how to sew a button, a piece of sock. Let’s repair our bikes in the many cafés and workshops that offer them. Let’s take care of our stuff, so we don’t have to replace it every 6 months. Some major brands have understood that the overconsumption of fashion is starting to weigh on many customers. For example, to reduce waste, Nike will resell slightly used shoes.

3. Reduce waste

On average, 345 kg of food is wasted per year per person in Belgium! We are rarely aware of our waste, but it is a sad reality. It’s time to change things and put new habits in place. If you never finish your plates and half of the dish goes in the garbage, maybe you should reduce the quantities. Buying (glass) Tupperware to take your leftovers to work or school the next day is a good idea to avoid waste.

Waste doesn’t just happen at home; there’s also a lot of it in restaurants and supermarkets. The Too Good to Go app allows retailers and restaurant owners to offer last-minute resale products that are no longer available in stores/restaurants at a lower cost. You reserve a basket/meal and can pick it up once the merchant’s day is over. You can have delicious surprises and receive a basket of vegetables for a small fee!

4. Buy second hand

5. Reduce your consumption of meat and fish

Even if it will not solve the climate crisis, meat production remains one of the biggest sources of planetary pollution: huge use of water, surface (deforestation), energy, fuel. On top of that, animal abuse is sometimes unbearable (who hasn’t seen videos of chicks being crushed?) and tends to influence more and more people on the way they consume.

You don’t necessarily have to become vegan tomorrow, but you can reduce your meat and fish consumption while favoring organic and local sources; after some time of market adaptation, things will eventually change.

Sound off in the comments section below and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more ways in which you can save our planet.

Tag Archives: planet

Dec, 2022

Ecological

Low maintenance

Beautiful to see

Few risks

Large area required

Oct, 2022

Don’t scare them, but make them understand the magnitude of things.

Books to help parents find the right words

How will you do this?

Drawings to express their feelings

Remember to set a good example.

Apr, 2022

1. Sweden

2. Japan

3. Canada

4. Denmark

5. Norway

Apr, 2022

What is waste recovery?

What are the different types of waste recovery?

The material recovery

Organic recovery

Energy recovery

What is the purpose of waste recovery?

Thrift

Mar, 2022

1. Eat local and in season

2. Repair rather than throw away

3. Reduce waste

4. Buy second hand

5. Reduce your consumption of meat and fish