Tag: California

Rent a living Christmas tree in California

You can go to a site or go online, order the tree and pick it up or if if possible have it delivered. A live tree doesn't shed needles after a few weeks and it's obviously the ecological choice to cutting down millions of 7 to 15 year old trees every year.

Inflatable concrete homes: a California and Ontario case study

Across Ontario and California, builders are rethinking concrete housing through inflatable-shell design—an approach that replaces wooden formwork with air and innovation. A 1,000-square-foot low-carbon concrete shell, insulated with hempcrete, can be erected in a day and cost far less than conventional construction. Over time, the savings in energy, materials, and mortgage costs make this model a realistic response to rising living expenses and climate stress. With low-carbon cement, hempcrete walls, and renewable energy, inflatable concrete homes show how even the world’s most carbon-heavy material can become part of a sustainable future—if built smartly, and within local building codes.

Rewilding the Suburb: Lagoon Valley’s Profound Plan for Conservation Community in California–– An Interview with Developer Curt Johansen

Lagoon Valley developers have set aside a remarkable 85% of its total land for open space, trails, and protected habitats—a rare move in an era of unchecked development. This isn’t just a nod to green space; it’s a full embrace of a conservation community model, where nature isn’t a backdrop but a partner.

SpaceX and SETI Partner to Protect Alien-Hunting Telescopes—But What About the Rest of the Sky?

SpaceX has taken steps to address concerns, including darker satellite coatings and directional signal shielding. But critics argue that without enforceable global standards, voluntary measures may not go far enough. Meanwhile, scientists at SETI and other institutions continue developing tools to protect the last wild frontier: the cosmic spectrum.

Would You Live In These 10 Regions of California?

California has always been known for big dreams and bold lifestyles. From sunny beaches to scenic mountains, buzzing cities to peaceful suburbs, every corner of the state offers something a little different and a lot to love.

PG&E’s $15 Billion Deal Could Mean Higher Energy Costs and More Blackouts for Californians

A little-known $15 billion deal between PG&E and the Department of Energy is raising concerns for California residents. The agreement, which will expand hydropower, also includes shutting down the Ivanpah solar plant, which has been providing energy to 140,000 homes. Without this reliable source of clean energy, California's already overburdened power grid will struggle, leading to higher energy costs and more frequent blackouts. Critics argue that while PG&E benefits financially, everyday Californians will be left paying the price with increased bills and an even less reliable power system. Questions are also being raised about possible conflicts of interest with key players in the deal, making it even more controversial. We spoke with one of the main investors of the Ivanpah plant to learn more. 

Ivanpah’s Sunset: Why the Collapse of a $2.2 Billion Solar Dream Threatens the Future of Renewable Energy

California is shutting down its Ivanpah CSP (Concentrated Solar Power) project, raising concerns about the future of CSP investments. Moshe Luz, a key scientist in the field, spoke to Green Prophet to address misconceptions and share insights. He argued that claims of bird deaths from CSP are myths and that Ivanpah's closure could hinder future renewable energy projects by discouraging investors from taking risks. Luz emphasized the need for bold investments to advance renewable technology.

California wildfires will hurt your lungs as toxic burnt building pollution drifts

For those with pre-existing conditions, cardiovascular diseases can be exacerbated after inhalation exposure to this smoke. That could mean symptoms such as elevated blood pressure and chest pain.

Build a fire-proof home with hemp blocks

Researchers tested the fire safety and strength of hemp blocks, a sustainable building material made from hemp, lime, and water. The study, published in the Journal of Building Engineering, found that Hemp blocks don’t catch fire with open flames but instead smolder slowly, producing very little smoke. In fact, walls made of hemp blocks stayed structurally intact for 2 hours during fire tests.

This plastic is made from corn

The global push for environmentally sustainable materials positions CornNext-17 to capitalize on increasing regulatory support and consumer demand for green products. Its adaptability, cost-effectiveness, and eco-friendly properties provide a competitive edge in addressing the growing plastic pollution crisis.

Drip irrigation systems: the history, the benefits and the problems

Imagine a controlled system comprising valves, pipes, emitters, and tubing orchestrating water delivery with precision to plant roots. Unlike traditional methods that often waste water, drip irrigation is a gentle and efficient method.

Abu Dhabi’s Masdar buys 50% stake in American renewables Terra-Gen

The Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company known as Masdar in the UAE has bought a 50 percent stake in Terra-Gen, one of the largest independent renewable energy producers in the United States, from Energy Capital Partners. Masdar is the same company that created the ambitious but failed zero-energy city outside of Abu Dhabi.Â