Make it something special to do with family or friends.
AP
www.AquaProSolutions.com, www.AquaEnvi.org, www.AshevilleGreenPlumbing.com,
Monday, March 22, 2010
Earth Hour Is March 27th at 8:30pm. Please participate!
Earth hours is a worldwide community participation event that helps raise awareness to environmental issues, particularly climate change. Participation it is voluntary. Will you participate? I hope so. On march 27th at 8:30 pm, turn off all your lights and send a message of support for global warming initiatives to our governments.
Make it something special to do with family or friends.
AP
www.AskAquaPro.com
AquaPro@AskaquaPro.com
www.AquaProSolutions.com, www.AquaEnvi.org, www.AshevilleGreenPlumbing.com,
Make it something special to do with family or friends.
AP
www.AquaProSolutions.com, www.AquaEnvi.org, www.AshevilleGreenPlumbing.com,
Sunday, March 21, 2010
TOXIC SUBSTANCE CONTROL RECORDS BECOME PUBLIC INFORMATION
This is very big news!! For the first time since the creation of the EPA's Toxic Substance Control Act, these once secret records are now available for public viewing. Below is the EPA press release I received on March 15th. My apologies for the delay in posting this information. It has been a very busy week in AquaPro World. Please take advantage of the opportunity to educate yourself on what manufacturers have until now been able to keep out of the public domain. Some 84,000 chemicals can now be reviewed. There are still over 17,000 chemicals that remain unreleased in the EPA list due to manufacturers "proprietary information". But this is a huge step in the right direction for the public's right to know.
Sent: Monday, March 15, 2010 2:06 PM
Subject: EPA News Release (HQ): EPA Makes Chemical Information More
Accessible to Public
CONTACT:
Dale Kemery
kemery.dale@epa.gov
202-564-7839
202-564-4455
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 15, 2010
EPA Makes Chemical Information More Accessible to Public
For the first time, TSCA chemical inventory free of charge online
WASHINGTON - As part of Administrator Lisa P. Jackson's strong
commitment to increase information on chemicals, for the first time, EPA
is providing web access, free of charge, to the Toxic Substances Control
Act (TSCA) Chemical Substance Inventory. This inventory contains a
consolidated list of thousands of industrial chemicals maintained by the
agency. EPA is also making this information available on Data.Gov, a
website developed by the Obama Administration to provide public access
to important government information. This action represents another
step to increase the transparency of chemical information while
continuing to push for legislative reform of the 30 year old TSCA law.
"Increasing the public's access to information on chemicals is one of
Administrator Jackson's top priorities," said Steve Owens, assistant
administrator for EPA's Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic
Substances. "The American people are entitled to easily accessible
information on chemicals, and today's action is part of a series of
ongoing steps that EPA is taking to empower the public with this
important information."
Until now, the consolidated public portion of the TSCA Inventory has
only been available by purchase from the National Technical Reports
Library or other databases. By adding the consolidated TSCA Inventory
to the Agency's website and to Data.Gov, EPA is making this information
readily available to the public at no cost.
Currently, there are more than 84,000 chemicals manufactured, used, or
imported in the U.S. listed on the TSCA Inventory. However, EPA is
unable to publicly identify nearly 17,000 of these chemicals because the
chemicals have been claimed as confidential business information under
TSCA by the manufacturers. Under Administrator Jackson's leadership,
EPA has already begun a series of aggressive steps to provide greater
transparency on chemical risk information, including an announcement in
January that signaled EPA's intent to reduce a certain type of
confidentiality claim, or Confidential Business Information (CBI) claim,
on the identity of chemicals
In the coming months, EPA will take further steps to increase
transparency and make more information available to the public,
including adding TSCA facility information, and the list of chemicals
manufactured to the Facility Registry System (FRS). FRS is an integrated
database that provides the public with easier access to EPA's
environmental information and better tools for cross-media environmental
analysis. The addition of TSCA facility and chemical databases to FRS
will provide the public with information on the facilities in their
communities using industrial chemicals.
For information about EPA's increasing transparency on chemical risk
information see
http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/
7/
[or http://tinyurl.com/yhegw6l ]
For access to the entire TSCA Inventory, please visit
http://www.epa.gov/oppt/
AP
www.AskAquaPro.com
AquaPro@AskaquaPro.com
www.AquaProSolutions.com, www.AquaEnvi.org, www.AshevilleGreenPlumbing.com,
Sent: Monday, March 15, 2010 2:06 PM
Subject: EPA News Release (HQ): EPA Makes Chemical Information More
Accessible to Public
CONTACT:
Dale Kemery
kemery.dale@epa.gov
202-564-7839
202-564-4455
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 15, 2010
EPA Makes Chemical Information More Accessible to Public
For the first time, TSCA chemical inventory free of charge online
WASHINGTON - As part of Administrator Lisa P. Jackson's strong
commitment to increase information on chemicals, for the first time, EPA
is providing web access, free of charge, to the Toxic Substances Control
Act (TSCA) Chemical Substance Inventory. This inventory contains a
consolidated list of thousands of industrial chemicals maintained by the
agency. EPA is also making this information available on Data.Gov, a
website developed by the Obama Administration to provide public access
to important government information. This action represents another
step to increase the transparency of chemical information while
continuing to push for legislative reform of the 30 year old TSCA law.
"Increasing the public's access to information on chemicals is one of
Administrator Jackson's top priorities," said Steve Owens, assistant
administrator for EPA's Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic
Substances. "The American people are entitled to easily accessible
information on chemicals, and today's action is part of a series of
ongoing steps that EPA is taking to empower the public with this
important information."
Until now, the consolidated public portion of the TSCA Inventory has
only been available by purchase from the National Technical Reports
Library or other databases. By adding the consolidated TSCA Inventory
to the Agency's website and to Data.Gov, EPA is making this information
readily available to the public at no cost.
Currently, there are more than 84,000 chemicals manufactured, used, or
imported in the U.S. listed on the TSCA Inventory. However, EPA is
unable to publicly identify nearly 17,000 of these chemicals because the
chemicals have been claimed as confidential business information under
TSCA by the manufacturers. Under Administrator Jackson's leadership,
EPA has already begun a series of aggressive steps to provide greater
transparency on chemical risk information, including an announcement in
January that signaled EPA's intent to reduce a certain type of
confidentiality claim, or Confidential Business Information (CBI) claim,
on the identity of chemicals
In the coming months, EPA will take further steps to increase
transparency and make more information available to the public,
including adding TSCA facility information, and the list of chemicals
manufactured to the Facility Registry System (FRS). FRS is an integrated
database that provides the public with easier access to EPA's
environmental information and better tools for cross-media environmental
analysis. The addition of TSCA facility and chemical databases to FRS
will provide the public with information on the facilities in their
communities using industrial chemicals.
For information about EPA's increasing transparency on chemical risk
information see
http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/
7/
[or http://tinyurl.com/yhegw6l ]
For access to the entire TSCA Inventory, please visit
http://www.epa.gov/oppt/
AP
www.AquaProSolutions.com, www.AquaEnvi.org, www.AshevilleGreenPlumbing.com,
Friday, March 5, 2010
WaterSense News: Approved Showerheads Coming Soon!
Good news for water efficiency is on the horizon. On March 4, EPA WaterSense division announced the final specification for showerheads. Manufacturers can now submit showerheads for testing to qualify for the WaterSense label. Consumers will soon be able to renovate their bathrooms utilizing a full suite of WaterSense labeled products.
If every household in the United States U.S.
Standard showerheads use a minimum of 2.5 gallons of water per minute (gpm). WaterSense labeled showerheads will have been tested and to demonstrate that they use no more than 2.0 gpm. As with all WaterSense specifications, EPA included performance criteria to ensure a good shower experience. EPA worked with a variety of stakeholders—including consumers who tested various showerheads—to develop criteria for water coverage and spray intensity. Independent laboratories test showerheads for these attributes before certifying them to earn the WaterSense label.
Whether they are replacing an older, inefficient showerhead or simply looking for ways to reduce water use and utility bills in the home, consumers can look for the WaterSense label on showerheads, faucets, aerators and toilets to help identify models that save water and conform to the WaterSense guidlines for quality and performance. EPA encourages partners and interested to help raise awareness about WaterSense labeled showerheads when they begin to hit the marketplace in April! For more information, please visit www.epa.gov/watersense.
If manufacturers have questions about joining WaterSense or having products tested for WaterSense labeling, please contact the WaterSense Helpline at (866) WTR-SENS (987-7367) or e-mail watersense@epa.gov.
Stop by again soon,
www.AquaProSolutions.com, www.AquaEnvi.org, www.AshevilleGreenPlumbing.com,
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Why Conserve Water?
Why should I conserve water? There is plenty of it...right?
I'm going to touch briefly on how, I believe, people actually think (or don't think) about the subject of water conservation. Lets agree that, for the most part, the average citizen in this country is not concerned with water conservation for whatever reason and that awareness needs to be heightened about the environmental issues that plague this planet due to lack of drinkable water in some parts of the world. We won't even get started on the subject of pollution. Lets save that for another discussion.
That being established, I will attempt to relate the importance of water conservation to the environmentally unconcerned on a level we can all relate to... MONEY. By sharing my own journey to awareness, hopefully I will inspire others to make an effort.
As a boy, and even as a young adult, living in my parents home, my main concern regarding water was that the shower head in my bathroom felt like someone opened a fire hydrant on my back and that the toilet tank dumped enough water into the bowl that I wouldn't have to reach for the plunger. I didn't pay the water bill.
Now its a different story. While living in an apartment in West Asheville, I was reminded that the city expected me to pay for the water I used. After a couple of $90 - $ 100 water bills I installed water efficient aerators on all the faucets, a water efficient shower head, and a
high efficiency Flapperless toilet (HET); all of which were EPA Water Sense recommended products. I could see a noticeable difference in the amount of MONEY I was spending for water. It didn't cost much to make these changes, I could see tangible and immediate results and they all worked great. The Niagara Flapperless toilet by the way, is an incredibly smart and simple design that flushes better than most tank toilets I have used.
These days, I own a home. I pay $25 per month to a Home Owners Association for my water and for road maintenance. Great! I can use as much water as I want... right?... Wrong. This home has a septic system. All that great low fixed rate water I use dumps directly into it. Said septic system is 23 years old and has some issues with roots so all the money I save (and then some) by not paying the city for water or sewer goes straight into having a repair field installed for my overworked and over saturated septic system. Even if there were no root issues, a family of 5 can saturate an aging drain field in no time. Now what?
You guessed it. Water efficient aerators on all the faucets, water efficient shower heads in both showers, and water efficient toilets in both bathrooms. 2 of the 4 inch lines going to my leach field are still clogged with roots leaving me only one 4 inch leach line but my septic system is functioning just fine and should continue to do so until the spring when I can dig it up and replace the root impacted sections of pipe. I'll probably never have to install a repair field as long as I continue to be mind full of conserving water in my home. That saves me MONEY ($ 2300 to be exact).
If I'm unsuccessful at changing the world and how it thinks with regards to being environmentally conscious, and being a good steward of the planet, by appealing to peoples sense of social responsibility then I'll do it by showing them how conserving water will save them MONEY.
PB
www.AskAquaPro.com
AquaPro@AskaquaPro.com
http://www.aquaprosolutions.com/, http://www.aquaenvi.org/, www.AshevilleGreenPlumbing.com,
I'm going to touch briefly on how, I believe, people actually think (or don't think) about the subject of water conservation. Lets agree that, for the most part, the average citizen in this country is not concerned with water conservation for whatever reason and that awareness needs to be heightened about the environmental issues that plague this planet due to lack of drinkable water in some parts of the world. We won't even get started on the subject of pollution. Lets save that for another discussion.
That being established, I will attempt to relate the importance of water conservation to the environmentally unconcerned on a level we can all relate to... MONEY. By sharing my own journey to awareness, hopefully I will inspire others to make an effort.
As a boy, and even as a young adult, living in my parents home, my main concern regarding water was that the shower head in my bathroom felt like someone opened a fire hydrant on my back and that the toilet tank dumped enough water into the bowl that I wouldn't have to reach for the plunger. I didn't pay the water bill.
Now its a different story. While living in an apartment in West Asheville, I was reminded that the city expected me to pay for the water I used. After a couple of $90 - $ 100 water bills I installed water efficient aerators on all the faucets, a water efficient shower head, and a
high efficiency Flapperless toilet (HET); all of which were EPA Water Sense recommended products. I could see a noticeable difference in the amount of MONEY I was spending for water. It didn't cost much to make these changes, I could see tangible and immediate results and they all worked great. The Niagara Flapperless toilet by the way, is an incredibly smart and simple design that flushes better than most tank toilets I have used.
These days, I own a home. I pay $25 per month to a Home Owners Association for my water and for road maintenance. Great! I can use as much water as I want... right?... Wrong. This home has a septic system. All that great low fixed rate water I use dumps directly into it. Said septic system is 23 years old and has some issues with roots so all the money I save (and then some) by not paying the city for water or sewer goes straight into having a repair field installed for my overworked and over saturated septic system. Even if there were no root issues, a family of 5 can saturate an aging drain field in no time. Now what?
You guessed it. Water efficient aerators on all the faucets, water efficient shower heads in both showers, and water efficient toilets in both bathrooms. 2 of the 4 inch lines going to my leach field are still clogged with roots leaving me only one 4 inch leach line but my septic system is functioning just fine and should continue to do so until the spring when I can dig it up and replace the root impacted sections of pipe. I'll probably never have to install a repair field as long as I continue to be mind full of conserving water in my home. That saves me MONEY ($ 2300 to be exact).
If I'm unsuccessful at changing the world and how it thinks with regards to being environmentally conscious, and being a good steward of the planet, by appealing to peoples sense of social responsibility then I'll do it by showing them how conserving water will save them MONEY.
PB
www.AskAquaPro.com
AquaPro@AskaquaPro.com
http://www.aquaprosolutions.com/, http://www.aquaenvi.org/, www.AshevilleGreenPlumbing.com,
Monday, March 1, 2010
Water Quality Today: Iron
IRON IN DRINKING WATER
Iron is one of the most troublesome elements in water supplies. Making up at least 5 percent of the earth’s crust, iron is one of the earth’s most plentiful resources. Rainwater as it infiltrates the soil and underlying geologic formations dissolves iron, causing it to seep into aquifers that serve as sources of groundwater for wells. Although present in drinking water, iron is seldom found at concentrations greater than 10 milligrams per liter (mg/l) or 10 parts per million. However, as little as 0.3 mg/l can cause water to turn a reddish brown color.
Iron is mainly present in water in two forms: either the soluble ferrous iron or the insoluble ferric iron. Water containing ferrous iron is clear and colorless because the iron is completely dissolved. When exposed to air in the pressure tank or atmosphere, the water turns cloudy and a reddish brown substance begins to form. This sediment is the oxidized or ferric form of iron that will not dissolve in water.
Health
Iron is not hazardous to health, but it is considered a secondary or aesthetic contaminant. Essential for good health, iron helps transport oxygen in the blood. Most tap water in the United States supplies approximately 5 percent of the dietary requirement for iron.
Taste and Food
Dissolved ferrous iron gives water a disagreeable taste. When the iron combines with tea, coffee and other beverages, it produces an inky, black appearance and a harsh, unacceptable taste. Vegetables cooked in water containing excessive iron turn dark and look unappealing.
Stains and Deposits
Concentrations of iron as low as 0.3 mg/l will leave reddish brown stains on fixtures, tableware and laundry that can be very hard to remove. When these deposits break loose from water piping, rusty water will flow through the faucet.
Iron Bacteria
When iron exists along with certain kinds of bacteria, problems can become much worse. Bacteria feed on the iron, leaving behind a reddish brown or yellow slime that can clog plumbing and cause an offensive odor. This slime or sludge is most noticeable in the tank of the toilet when the lid is removed.
Organic Iron
Iron combines with different naturally occurring organic materials; it may also exist as an organic complex. The combination of naturally occurring organic material and iron can be found in shallow wells and surface water. This type of iron is usually yellow or brown but may be colorless.
Test Your Water
If there is an iron problem with the water supply, the first step is to determine the source. The source of iron may be from the corrosion of iron or steel pipes or other components of the plumbing system where the acidity of the water, measured as pH, is below 6.5.
A lab analysis of water to determine the extent of the iron problem and possible treatment solutions should begin with a test for iron concentration. A water sample kit can be obtained from a certified laboratory. The laboratory’s instructions for collecting the water sample should be followed. Collect the sample as close to the well as possible.
If the source of water is a public water system and you experience iron-related problems, it is important to contact a utility official to determine whether the red water is from the public system or from the home’s plumbing or piping.
Treatment Considerations
Before choosing a water treatment method or device, answer the following questions:
1. What form of iron do I have in my water system?
2. According to the water test results, will the water treatment unit remove the total iron concentration? (Total iron includes both soluble and insoluble iron.)
3. Will the treatment unit treat the water at the flow rate required for my water system?
4. Will the pH have to be adjusted prior to a particular treatment?
5. Would the construction of a new well or the reconstruction of an existing well be more cost effective than a long-term iron removal treatment process?
Iron water is one of those conditions that will need to be addressed or the long term effects will create additional problems later. Don't put it off.
AP
www.AskAquaPro.com
AquaPro@AskaquaPro.com
www.AquaProSolutions.com, www.AquaEnvi.org, www.AshevilleGreenPlumbing.com, www.H2oEasy.com
Iron is one of the most troublesome elements in water supplies. Making up at least 5 percent of the earth’s crust, iron is one of the earth’s most plentiful resources. Rainwater as it infiltrates the soil and underlying geologic formations dissolves iron, causing it to seep into aquifers that serve as sources of groundwater for wells. Although present in drinking water, iron is seldom found at concentrations greater than 10 milligrams per liter (mg/l) or 10 parts per million. However, as little as 0.3 mg/l can cause water to turn a reddish brown color.
Iron is mainly present in water in two forms: either the soluble ferrous iron or the insoluble ferric iron. Water containing ferrous iron is clear and colorless because the iron is completely dissolved. When exposed to air in the pressure tank or atmosphere, the water turns cloudy and a reddish brown substance begins to form. This sediment is the oxidized or ferric form of iron that will not dissolve in water. Health
Iron is not hazardous to health, but it is considered a secondary or aesthetic contaminant. Essential for good health, iron helps transport oxygen in the blood. Most tap water in the United States supplies approximately 5 percent of the dietary requirement for iron.
Taste and Food
Dissolved ferrous iron gives water a disagreeable taste. When the iron combines with tea, coffee and other beverages, it produces an inky, black appearance and a harsh, unacceptable taste. Vegetables cooked in water containing excessive iron turn dark and look unappealing.
Stains and Deposits
Concentrations of iron as low as 0.3 mg/l will leave reddish brown stains on fixtures, tableware and laundry that can be very hard to remove. When these deposits break loose from water piping, rusty water will flow through the faucet.
Iron Bacteria
When iron exists along with certain kinds of bacteria, problems can become much worse. Bacteria feed on the iron, leaving behind a reddish brown or yellow slime that can clog plumbing and cause an offensive odor. This slime or sludge is most noticeable in the tank of the toilet when the lid is removed.
Organic Iron
Iron combines with different naturally occurring organic materials; it may also exist as an organic complex. The combination of naturally occurring organic material and iron can be found in shallow wells and surface water. This type of iron is usually yellow or brown but may be colorless.
Test Your Water
If there is an iron problem with the water supply, the first step is to determine the source. The source of iron may be from the corrosion of iron or steel pipes or other components of the plumbing system where the acidity of the water, measured as pH, is below 6.5.
A lab analysis of water to determine the extent of the iron problem and possible treatment solutions should begin with a test for iron concentration. A water sample kit can be obtained from a certified laboratory. The laboratory’s instructions for collecting the water sample should be followed. Collect the sample as close to the well as possible.
If the source of water is a public water system and you experience iron-related problems, it is important to contact a utility official to determine whether the red water is from the public system or from the home’s plumbing or piping.
Treatment Considerations
Before choosing a water treatment method or device, answer the following questions:
1. What form of iron do I have in my water system?
2. According to the water test results, will the water treatment unit remove the total iron concentration? (Total iron includes both soluble and insoluble iron.)
3. Will the treatment unit treat the water at the flow rate required for my water system?
4. Will the pH have to be adjusted prior to a particular treatment?
5. Would the construction of a new well or the reconstruction of an existing well be more cost effective than a long-term iron removal treatment process?
Iron water is one of those conditions that will need to be addressed or the long term effects will create additional problems later. Don't put it off.
AP
www.AquaProSolutions.com, www.AquaEnvi.org, www.AshevilleGreenPlumbing.com, www.H2oEasy.com
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Toxic Waters - Clean Water Laws Are Neglected, at a Cost in Suffering - Series - NYTimes.com
I have been following this NY times series for some time. It is directly relevant to the growing water quality concerns in the US. Great information, very well researched. Stay informed!
Toxic Waters - Clean Water Laws Are Neglected, at a Cost in Suffering - Series - NYTimes.com
AP
www.AskAquaPro.com
www.aquaProSolutions.com
www.AquaEnvi.org
Toxic Waters - Clean Water Laws Are Neglected, at a Cost in Suffering - Series - NYTimes.com
AP
www.AskAquaPro.com
www.aquaProSolutions.com
www.AquaEnvi.org
Saturday, February 6, 2010
A Growing Problem, A Global Concern
Along with the continuing population growth we experience an ever increasing demand on finite freshwater resources around the globe. To avoid a crisis, many countries must improve water efficiency, minimize pollution, manage supply and lessen demand.
As populations in developing countries grow, the demand on fresh water supplies will grow with them. Rising demands on limited and increasingly polluted water supplies has created deadly power struggles and fierce competition over the allocation and control of water resources needed to supply agricultural demands, domestic consumption and industrial growth.
Already 31 countries, including the United States experience chronic shortages of freshwater. Studies indicate that in less than 15 years, nearly 3 billion people, accounting for 35% of the worlds projected population, in over 48 countries will face similar conditions.
In much of the world polluted water, improper waste disposal, and poor water management cause serious public health problems. Water-related diseases kill millions of people every year. Millions more suffer from heath disorders and cancer caused by exposure to chemical and pharmaceutical toxins commonly found in municipal and private water supplies. Overuse, mismanagement and pollution of water resources are also taking a heavy toll on the environment and pose devastating risks to nature. For many species of life it is already too late.
AP
www.AquaEnvi.org
www.AquaProSolutions.com
As populations in developing countries grow, the demand on fresh water supplies will grow with them. Rising demands on limited and increasingly polluted water supplies has created deadly power struggles and fierce competition over the allocation and control of water resources needed to supply agricultural demands, domestic consumption and industrial growth.
Already 31 countries, including the United States experience chronic shortages of freshwater. Studies indicate that in less than 15 years, nearly 3 billion people, accounting for 35% of the worlds projected population, in over 48 countries will face similar conditions.
In much of the world polluted water, improper waste disposal, and poor water management cause serious public health problems. Water-related diseases kill millions of people every year. Millions more suffer from heath disorders and cancer caused by exposure to chemical and pharmaceutical toxins commonly found in municipal and private water supplies. Overuse, mismanagement and pollution of water resources are also taking a heavy toll on the environment and pose devastating risks to nature. For many species of life it is already too late.
AP
www.AquaEnvi.org
www.AquaProSolutions.com
Monday, November 30, 2009
Wine To Water: Now Thats My Kind Of Hero
If you know me, you know that the preservation of our natural fresh water resources is my passion and that I believe clean healthy water is a birth right for all living creatures on this planet. Today I came across a news story that touches my heart. Doc Hendley is a resident of Blowing Rock, NC with whom I share a passion, a dream and a hope. For me this story hits close to home in many ways; literally and figuratively.
Mr. Hendley is the creator of an organization called Wine to Water that provides clean water to people in developing countries through funds raised at wine tasting events. That’s right folks you can have your wine and save lives by doing so; brilliant! Wine to Water is a nonprofit dedicated to achieving sustainability through education and empowerment of local community members, training them to install, maintain and repair their own water systems. I will be reaching out to Mr. Hendley in support of his efforts and I hope you all will do the same.Check out this video from CNN News.
Video Embed
BRAVO Doc. My hat is off & my hand is out. Keep up the hard work.
AquaPro
AquaPro@AquaEnvi.org
AquaPro@AskAquaPro.com
www.AquaProSolutions.com
Mr. Hendley is the creator of an organization called Wine to Water that provides clean water to people in developing countries through funds raised at wine tasting events. That’s right folks you can have your wine and save lives by doing so; brilliant! Wine to Water is a nonprofit dedicated to achieving sustainability through education and empowerment of local community members, training them to install, maintain and repair their own water systems. I will be reaching out to Mr. Hendley in support of his efforts and I hope you all will do the same.Check out this video from CNN News.
Video Embed
BRAVO Doc. My hat is off & my hand is out. Keep up the hard work.
AquaPro
AquaPro@AquaEnvi.org
AquaPro@AskAquaPro.com
www.AquaProSolutions.com
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Can I Save My Old Toilet or Should I Buy A New One?
Here's a great question submitted to AskAquaPro.com on Nov 3, 2009.
Ron Whitworth asked;
"Can I make my existing toilet more water efficient rather than throwing it away?"
Well Ron the short answer is, I hope you can.
I am a big fan of minimizing the amount of waste that goes into our landfills, and converting/upgrading your existing toilet rather than throwing it away is one thing I definitely encourage; under the right circumstances. There are plenty of “do it yourself tricks” out there that can be much more trouble than benefit so do your home work before deciding on what will work best for you. The good news is there are viable, effective, affordable options for improving the efficiency of a toilet rather than throwing it away and spending $$$ for a new High Efficiency Toilet (HET or UHET).
A couple things to consider;
a) If the current toilet uses more than 3.5 gallons of water per flush you should bite the bullet and get a new toilet. You will recover the cost of buying a new toilet pretty quickly by replacing these old water hogs. Get rid of it.
b) If you have a pressured assist toilet it can not be modified.
One of the most cost effective ways to improve water efficiency in a toilet is to convert it to a dual-flush. The Dual Flush Pro toilet conversion kit makes this easy to do and cost’s less than $55. This kit comes with everything you need to turn your existing toilet into a Dual Flush water saver toilet in about thirty minutes. The handle has a dual function; push one way for ½ flush to remove liquid waste and push the other way for full flush to remove solid waste.
For most major brand 1.6 gallon per flush toilets the kit is pretty well set up right out of the box to provide a 0.8 gallon half flush and 1.6 gallon full flush. Not all toilets are created equal. Some models will require adjustments to the factory settings of whichever kit you decide to use. These adjustments are simple with the Dual Flush Pro kit.
Thanks for asking,
AquaPro
AquaPro@AskaquaPro.com
Aqua Environmental Resource Center
Ron Whitworth asked;
"Can I make my existing toilet more water efficient rather than throwing it away?"
Well Ron the short answer is, I hope you can.
I am a big fan of minimizing the amount of waste that goes into our landfills, and converting/upgrading your existing toilet rather than throwing it away is one thing I definitely encourage; under the right circumstances. There are plenty of “do it yourself tricks” out there that can be much more trouble than benefit so do your home work before deciding on what will work best for you. The good news is there are viable, effective, affordable options for improving the efficiency of a toilet rather than throwing it away and spending $$$ for a new High Efficiency Toilet (HET or UHET).
A couple things to consider;
a) If the current toilet uses more than 3.5 gallons of water per flush you should bite the bullet and get a new toilet. You will recover the cost of buying a new toilet pretty quickly by replacing these old water hogs. Get rid of it.
b) If you have a pressured assist toilet it can not be modified.
One of the most cost effective ways to improve water efficiency in a toilet is to convert it to a dual-flush. The Dual Flush Pro toilet conversion kit makes this easy to do and cost’s less than $55. This kit comes with everything you need to turn your existing toilet into a Dual Flush water saver toilet in about thirty minutes. The handle has a dual function; push one way for ½ flush to remove liquid waste and push the other way for full flush to remove solid waste.
For most major brand 1.6 gallon per flush toilets the kit is pretty well set up right out of the box to provide a 0.8 gallon half flush and 1.6 gallon full flush. Not all toilets are created equal. Some models will require adjustments to the factory settings of whichever kit you decide to use. These adjustments are simple with the Dual Flush Pro kit.
Thanks for asking,
AquaPro
AquaPro@AskaquaPro.com
Aqua Environmental Resource Center
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Arsenic linked to Diabetes
In my efforts to stay in touch with the global water situation I have noticed a resurgent “buzz” on the topic of Arsenic in drinking water. The topic is always worth discussing. Arsenic is a known carcinogen and is a major contributor to many forms of cancer and illness. In a 2008 article posted in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA-PDF or HTML)evidenced a link between Type 2 Diabetes & low level exposure to inorganic Arsenic.
Arsenic is a metalloid that exists in both organic and inorganic forms; the later of which is the most troublesome. A common source of organic Arsenic is Fish and Seafood and for the most part it passes through the body. Arsenic was discovered in 1250 and quickly gained notoriety as an extremely poisonous metalloid and human carcinogen. It is known to cause bladder, lung and skin cancers, and may cause kidney and liver cancer. The chemical attacks the central and peripheral nervous systems, damages the heart and blood vessels, and causes serious skin problems. It also may cause birth defects and reproductive problems.
Arsenic is commonly found in drinking water supplies all over the world. In its two forms, organic and inorganic; the inorganic form is more dangerous. Inorganic arsenic occurs naturally. In addition, at least six million pounds of arsenic are released into the environment of the U.S. each year through several unnatural processes including mining, burning coal, copper and lead smelting, wood-preservative treatments, municipal incinerators and the use of common pesticides.
Currently in the US, the maximum arsenic concentration allowed by the EPA is 10 parts per billion (ppb). This is also the recognized limit by the World Health Organization. Before January 2006, 50 ppb was considered acceptable in many states across the country. There is evidence for concern that levels even below 10ppb are dangerous. Recent studies have associated these lower amounts with increased levels of skin cancer. The negative effects of continuous low dosage exposure to arsenic can take years to become apparent.
All sources of drinking water should be checked. Arsenic is an element of the earth's crust and can be released from the sediment into the groundwater. Most water sources are Direct Draw from some kind of ground source; including municipally treated and distributed water.
Never blindly trust the source of your drinking and bathing water. Test your water & filter it if uncertain or remain at risk; you decide.
AquaPro
AquaPro@AquaEnvi.org
www.H2OEasy.com
www.AquaProSolutions.com
Arsenic is a metalloid that exists in both organic and inorganic forms; the later of which is the most troublesome. A common source of organic Arsenic is Fish and Seafood and for the most part it passes through the body. Arsenic was discovered in 1250 and quickly gained notoriety as an extremely poisonous metalloid and human carcinogen. It is known to cause bladder, lung and skin cancers, and may cause kidney and liver cancer. The chemical attacks the central and peripheral nervous systems, damages the heart and blood vessels, and causes serious skin problems. It also may cause birth defects and reproductive problems.
Arsenic is commonly found in drinking water supplies all over the world. In its two forms, organic and inorganic; the inorganic form is more dangerous. Inorganic arsenic occurs naturally. In addition, at least six million pounds of arsenic are released into the environment of the U.S. each year through several unnatural processes including mining, burning coal, copper and lead smelting, wood-preservative treatments, municipal incinerators and the use of common pesticides.
Currently in the US, the maximum arsenic concentration allowed by the EPA is 10 parts per billion (ppb). This is also the recognized limit by the World Health Organization. Before January 2006, 50 ppb was considered acceptable in many states across the country. There is evidence for concern that levels even below 10ppb are dangerous. Recent studies have associated these lower amounts with increased levels of skin cancer. The negative effects of continuous low dosage exposure to arsenic can take years to become apparent.
All sources of drinking water should be checked. Arsenic is an element of the earth's crust and can be released from the sediment into the groundwater. Most water sources are Direct Draw from some kind of ground source; including municipally treated and distributed water.
Never blindly trust the source of your drinking and bathing water. Test your water & filter it if uncertain or remain at risk; you decide.
AquaPro
AquaPro@AquaEnvi.org
www.H2OEasy.com
www.AquaProSolutions.com
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Save 1200 plus gallons of water a day.
Here is a creative short video that shows the value of water to our everyday life. . I bet you had no idea how much water it take to get you through the day. Every aspect of every day life is somehow connected to water. Conservation and efficiency should be on everyone's mind every day. The sooner we change our habits the better. I would love to hear how you are doing your part. Comments anyone?
AP
AquaPro@AskAquaPro.com
www.aquaprosolutions.com
AP
AquaPro@AskAquaPro.com
www.aquaprosolutions.com
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Robert Glennon; Unquenchable, and genuine
I recently had the pleasure of meeting Robert Glennon, the author of Unquenchable: America's Water Crisis and What To Do about It. He has recently been a guest on The Daily show. He was a guest speaker at Warren Wilson College as part of their new environmental lecture serious. Mr. Glennon provided some unique insights for consideration. I am very thankful for his efforts and devotion to educate the public and bring attention to the state of the water situation in the US. He is very passionate in his attempts to “wake up" the American public to this potential crisis without being alarmist. I found his points of view and expectations very realistic and well researched. I recommend his book as “well worth reading”.
AP
www.AquaEnvi.org
www.AquaProSolutions.com
Monday, September 28, 2009
The Stealth Toilet Is Taking Gravity Flush Toilets Too The Next Level of Water Efficiency
Once again the ingenuity and forward thinking of the folks at Niagara Conservation has produced a toilet design that is sure to establish a new standard in the industry. While most manufactures are pressing to produce Dual Flush toilets as their next big push in the HET market, Niagara Conservation is introducing a single flush toilet that uses 0.80 gallon per flush. That’s right a gravity flush toilet that only uses ½ the water of a standard 1.6 gallon toilet to evacuate both liquid waste and solid waste. Niagara reports to us that the Stealth toilet performs as well if not better than most 1.6 gallon toilets on the market.
The Niagara Stealth toilet utilizes the ingenuity of a pressurized trap system. Essentially the flushing mechanism forces air into the trap while the bowl is refilling. The air is trapped between to water seal, one at the top of the trap and one at the bottom of the trap. A positive pressure pocket of air is created behind the water in the bowl thereby requiring less water to create the siphon need to evacuate the bowl.
The Stealth toilet by Niagara Conservation is currently only available for limited distribution. We have been informed that it will be available for retail distribution by the end of October 2009. Retail price is expected to be in the $375.00 range. The Stealth toilet will be available for advanced order from AquaPro Solutions online store in mid to late October 2009.
Aqua Environmental Resource Center is conducting an in house test analysis of the stealth toilet at our new Asheville, NC facility.
Stay tuned for our report or call for information
877-4321-H2O (426) toll free
828-255-0772 local
AP
AquaPro@AskAquaPro.com
AquaPro@AquaEnvi.org
www.AquaProSolutions.com
Congratulation Warren Wilson College Eco Dorm
Here is some well deserved recognition for a local Western North Carolina College. The Eco Dorm on Warren Willson College campus is a model of efficiency. Kudos y'all.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/27/magazine/27Ecodorm-t.html?_r=1
AquaPro
C Hanson
AquaPro@AquaEnvi.org
www.AquaProSolutions.com
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/27/magazine/27Ecodorm-t.html?_r=1
AquaPro
C Hanson
AquaPro@AquaEnvi.org
www.AquaProSolutions.com
Thursday, September 3, 2009
who controls the flow of water?
NY Times GreenInc, blog post
AquaPro posted reply:
I am concerned that we continue to witness advancements in the control of fresh water resources by for-profit corporate entities. I am of the opinion that this is not in the best we can do. As one of the three things we cannot survive without (Air, Water, Food) I am perplexed by our complacency with the idea that fresh water isn’t provided as a basic human right. For-profit ventures that contribute too or result in the control of fresh water supplies by for-profit entities is something we should be very worried about.
That's what I think, what do you think?
AquaPro
AquaPro@aquaenvi.org
www.aquaenvi.org
www.AquaProSolutions.com
AquaPro posted reply:
I am concerned that we continue to witness advancements in the control of fresh water resources by for-profit corporate entities. I am of the opinion that this is not in the best we can do. As one of the three things we cannot survive without (Air, Water, Food) I am perplexed by our complacency with the idea that fresh water isn’t provided as a basic human right. For-profit ventures that contribute too or result in the control of fresh water supplies by for-profit entities is something we should be very worried about.
That's what I think, what do you think?
AquaPro
AquaPro@aquaenvi.org
www.aquaenvi.org
www.AquaProSolutions.com
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