SEI Design Group BlogBlog about news, information, happenings and mojo at SEI Design Group

Ever wonder how green some technology companies are?

Apple

Have you purchased an Apple laptop and opened the box to see the computer suspended in “mid air”?  This is part of Apple’s plan to reduce packaging materials and help to save the environment.  Apple has also been promoting that since their products are thinner and lighter, there is less material use.

Google

Google uses photovoltaic cells for some of it’s electric consumption.  They also shuttle people to the Googleplex and reward those who come via self power (bike, walk, etc.).  You can read more here.

Check out this blog, Living Root Bridges.  Incredible, and a very green idea!  Be sure to click to enlarge to see the detail.  What other natural architectural phenomenons have you seen?  Leave your answers in the comments.

As always, we want to be sure you are celebrating Earth Day.  Earth Day is s a day designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth’s environment.   You can find numerous activities and information on the Earth Day Official Government site.  The U.S. Green Building Council (we are a proud member) is another resource for education and information and you can also visit Earth Day Network.

A recent post from Architecture.MNP (a favorite site of SEI) describes some solar shades made for school playgrounds. This design is a collaboration of Victorian Eco-Innovation Lab and Buro North and was planned for Australian schools. Another idea for points for LEED certification?

Voters in South Lewis approved an $18.7M Capital Project that includes roof replacement, pool restoration work, exterior wall rehabilitation, technology, and bus garage renovation. Of particular note, the District has many green/ energy saving initiatives including installing a new biomass (wood chip) boiler at the Middle School/High School and bus garage, and also, a peak demand shaving generator will be included to cut electric usage at the MS/HS facility. The heat given off will be captured and transferred to heat the pool water. Congratulations to all!    Additional photos: Photo1, Photo 2

As a member and supporter of the USGBC and Green Projects, SEI was glad to see that one city (Los Angeles), is being proactive in requiring that any new building project over 50,000 SF be LEED certified. In a city known for smog and traffic, this could reduce carbon monoxide emissions the equivalent of taking 15,000 cars off the road.

It’s time to celebrate Earth Day.  Here are some links to get you in the Green Earth Day mood:

• Activities for Teachers
• EPA sponsored events
• Earth Day Crafts
• Global Earth Day Network
• Earth Day History