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Atmospheric Layers

March 14, 2015, 9:43 am
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Atmospheric Layers
Although air is well mixed throughout the atmosphere, the atmosphere itself is not physically uniform but has significant variations in temperature and pressure with altitude, which define a number of atmospheric layers. These include the troposphere (0 to 16 km), stratosphere (16 to 50 km), mesosphere (50 to 80km) and thermosphere (80 to 640km). The boundaries between these four layers are defined by abrupt changes in temperature, and include respectively the tropopause, stratopause and mesopause. In the troposphere and mesosphere, temperature generally falls with increasing altitude, whilst in the stratosphere and thermosphere, temperature rises with increasing altitude.
In addition to temperature, other criteria can be used to define different layers in the atmosphere. The ionosphere, for example, which occupies the same region of the atmosphere as the thermosphere, is defined by the presence of ions, a physico-chemical criterion. The region beyond the ionosphere is known as the exosphere. The ionosphere and the exosphere together make up the upper atmosphere (or thermosphere). The magnetosphere is the region above the Earth's surface in which charged particles are affected by the Earth's magnetic field.
Another well-known layer of the atmosphere is the ozone layer, occupying much of the stratosphere. This layer is defined by its chemical composition - where ozone is especially abundant.
Layers of the Atmosphere

Atmospheric Layers
Troposphere
The lowest layer of the atmosphere is called the troposphere. It ranges in thickness from 8km at the poles to 16km over the equator. The troposphere is bounded above by the tropopause, a boundary marked by stable temperatures. Above the troposphere is the stratosphere. Although variations do occur, temperature usually declines with increasing altitude in the troposphere. Hill walkers know that it will be several degrees cooler on the top of a mountain than in the valley below.
The troposphere is denser than the layers of the atmosphere above it (because of the weight compressing it), and it contains up to 75% of the mass of the atmosphere. It is primarily composed of nitrogen (78%) and oxygen (21%) with only small concentrations of other trace gases. Nearly all atmospheric water vapour or moisture is found in the troposphere.
The troposphere is the layer where most of the world's weather takes place. Since temperature decreases with altitude in the troposphere, warm air near the surface of the Earth can readily rise, being less dense than the colder air above it. In fact air molecules can travel to the top of the troposphere and back down again in a just a few days. Such vertical movement or convection of air generates clouds and ultimately rain from the moisture within the air, and gives rise to much of the weather which we experience. The troposphere is capped by the tropopause, a region of stable temperature. Air temperature then begins to rise in the stratosphere. Such a temperature increase prevents much air convection beyond the tropopause, and consequently most weather phenomena, including towering cumulonimbus thunderclouds, are confined to the troposphere.
Sometimes the temperature does not decrease with height in the troposphere, but increases. Such a situation is known as a temperature inversion. Temperature inversions limit or prevent the vertical mixing of air. Such atmospheric stability can lead to air pollution episodes with air pollutants emitted at ground level becoming trapped underneath the temperature inversion.
Stratosphere
The stratosphere is the second major layer of the atmosphere. It lies above the troposphere and is separated from it by the tropopause. It occupies the region of atmosphere from about 12 to 50 km, although its lower boundary tends to be higher nearer the equator and lower nearer the poles.
The stratosphere defines a layer in which temperatures rises with increasing altitude. At the top of the stratosphere the thin air may attain temperatures close to 0°C. This rise in temperature is caused by the absorption of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun by the ozone layer. Such a temperature profile creates very stable atmospheric conditions, and the stratosphere lacks the air turbulence that is so prevalent in the troposphere. Consequently, the stratosphere is almost completely free of clouds or other forms of weather.
The stratosphere provides some advantages for long-distant flight because it is above stormy weather and has strong, steady, horizontal winds.
The stratosphere is separated from the mesosphere above by the stratopause.
Mesosphere
The mesosphere (literally middle sphere) is the third highest layer in our atmosphere, occupying the region 50 km to 80 km above the surface of the Earth, above the troposphere and stratosphere, and below the thermosphere. It is separated from the stratosphere by the stratopause and from the thermosphere by the mesopause.
Temperatures in the mesosphere drop with increasing altitude to about -100°C. The mesosphere is the coldest of the atmospheric layers. In fact it is colder then Antarctica's lowest recorded temperature. It is cold enough to freeze water vapor into ice clouds. You can see these clouds if sunlight hits them after sunset. They are called Noctilucent Clouds (NLC). NLCs are most readily visible when the Sun is from 4 to 16 degrees below the horizon.
The mesosphere is also the layer in which a lot of meteors burn up while entering the Earth's atmosphere. From the Earth they are seen as shooting stars. The dark blue layer next to the blackness of space in the image below is the mesosphere. In fact the upper atmosphere extends much further out, into the thermosphere.
Mesosphere
Thermosphere
The thermosphere (literally "heat sphere") is the outer layer of the atmosphere, separated from the mesosphere by the mesopause. Within the thermosphere temperatures rise continually to well beyond 1000°C. The few molecules that are present in the thermosphere receive extraordinary amounts of energy from the Sun, causing the layer to warm to such high temperatures. Air temperature, however, is a measure of the kinetic energy of air molecules, not of the total energy stored by the air. Therefore, since the air is so thin within the thermosphere, such temperature values are not comparable to those of the troposphere or stratosphere. Although the measured temperature is very hot, the thermosphere would actually feel very cold to us because the total energy of only a few air molecules residing there would not be enough to transfer any appreciable heat to our skin.
The lower part of the thermosphere, from 80 to 550 km above the Earth's surface, contains the ionosphere. Beyond the ionosphere extending out to perhaps 10,000 km is the exosphere or outer thermosphere, which gradually merges into space.
Ionosphere
The ionosphere is a layer of ionized air in the atmosphere extending from almost 80 km above the Earth's surface altitudes of 600 km and more. Technically, the ionosphere is not another atmospheric layer. It occupies the same region of the upper atmosphere as the thermosphere. In this region of the atmosphere the Sun's energy is so strong that it breaks apart molecules and atoms of air, leaving ions (atoms with missing electrons) and free-floating electrons. The ionosphere is the region of the atmosphere where the aurorae occur.
Ionisation of air molecules in the ionosphere is produced by ultraviolet radiation from the Sun, and to a lesser extent by high-energy particles from the Sun and from cosmic rays.
Aurora
On certain nights at high latitudes shifting patterns of light may been seen in the sky. These are the aurorae. The bright lights are caused by high-energy particles streaming out from the Sun - the solar wind - striking the Earth's upper atmosphere or ionosphere. Energy from these electrically charged particles is converted into light, forming visible glows, rays, arcs, bands and veils. This light is usually greenish, but is sometimes red as well. The charged particles are attracted by the Earth's magnetic field. Near the magnetic poles, the Earth's magnetic field becomes much stronger. Consequently, it is nearer the magnetic poles that the aurorae are most frequently witnessed.
The power of aurorae depends mostly on the strength of the solar wind. During an intense solar storm, the wind can intensify very strongly, and aurorae may be seen at lower latitudes further from the magnetic poles. Every 11 years, at the peak of the sunspot cycle there is an increase in intensity of the solar wind, and with it, an increase in frequency and intensity of auroral displays.
Aurorae occur in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. In the Northern Hemisphere, the display is known as the aurora borealis, or northern lights. In the Southern Hemisphere, it is called the aurora australis, or southern lights. The term aurora polaris, polar lights, is a general name for both. Aurorae are usually visible from within the Arctic or Antarctic circles - Antarctica, Greenland, Iceland and Northern regions of Canada, Alaska, Scandinavia and Russia. During times of more intense activity on the Sun, auroral storms can be viewed at lower latitudes such as northern Scotland and most of Norway, Sweden and Finland. Very rarely displays can be seen from northerly parts of Europe and the United States.
Aurora Borealis
The large number of free electrons in the ionosphere allows the propagation of electromagnetic waves. Radio signals - a form of electromagnetic radiation - can be "bounced" off the ionosphere allowing radio communication over long distances.
Exosphere
The exosphere is the highest layer of the atmosphere. Together with the ionosphere, it makes up the thermosphere. The exosphere extends to 10,000 km above the Earth's surface. This is the upper limit of our atmosphere. The atmosphere here merges into space in the extremely thin air. Air atoms and molecules are constantly escaping to space from the exosphere. In this region of the atmosphere, hydrogen and helium are the prime components and are only present at extremely low densities. This is the area where many satellites orbit the Earth.
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Atmospheric Composition

March 14, 2015, 9:45 am
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Atmospheric Composition
Air
Air is a mixture of gases and aerosols that composes the atmosphere surrounding Earth. The primary gases of air include nitrogen (78%) and oxygen (21%). Trace gases and aerosols make up the remaining 1% of air. The trace gases include the noble gases argon, neon, helium, krypton and xenon; hydrogen; and the greenhouse gases. The aerosols are solid or liquid particles having diameters in the region of 0.001 to 10 microns (millionth of a metre), and include dust, soot, sea salt crystals, spores, bacteria, viruses and a plethora of other microscopic particles, which may be natural or man-made.
Earth maintains an atmosphere through its gravitational pull. Consequently, most air is found in the lowest 10 kilometres of the atmosphere. Experienced mountain climbers are aware of how thin the air becomes, and may carry oxygen tanks to assist breathing at high altitudes. Within the lower atmosphere, however, air remains remarkably uniform in composition, as a result of efficient recycling processes and turbulent mixing in the atmosphere.
Atmospheric Gases
There are a number of atmospheric gases which make up air. The main gases are nitrogen and oxygen, which make up 78% and 21% of the volume of air respectively. Oxygen is utilised primarily by animals, including humans, but also to a small degree by plants, in the process of respiration (the metabolism of food products to generate energy).
The remaining 1% of the atmospheric gases is made up of trace gases. These include the noble gases, very inert or unreactive gases, of which the most abundant is argon. Other noble gases include neon, helium, krypton and xenon. Hydrogen is also present in trace quantities in the atmosphere, but because it is so light, over time much of it has escaped Earth's gravitational pull to space.
The remaining trace gases include the greenhouse gases, carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, water vapour and ozone, so-called because they are involved in the Earth natural greenhouse effect which keeps the planet warmer than it would be without an atmosphere.
Oxygen
The gas oxygen (O2), composed of molecules of two oxygen atoms, occupies 21% of the Earth's atmosphere by volume. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Oxygen also comprises 86% of the oceans and 60% of the human body, and is the third most abundant element found in the Sun. Almost all plants and animals require oxygen for respiration to maintain life.
Oxygen is very reactive and oxides of most elements are known. A chemical reaction in which an oxide is formed is known as oxidation. The rate at which oxidation occurs varies with the element with which oxygen is reacting. Rust, or iron oxide, for example forms relatively slowly, over days or weeks. Burning or combustion, however, involves a very rapid oxidation. Carbon in fossil fuels, for example, can be quickly oxidised to carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide, with a considerable amount of heat being given off. We can convert this heat into useful energy for heating, electricity and locomotion.
Within the stratosphere, oxygen molecules combine with free oxygen atoms to form ozone (O3). Ozone absorbs ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the Sun, and protects life on Earth from its damaging effect. Although abundant between 19 and 30 km altitude, the air at these levels in the atmosphere is thin. If all the ozone in the stratosphere was compressed to ordinary atmosphere pressure at ground level, it would occupy a layer only 3 mm thick.
Nitrogen
The gas nitrogen (N2), composed of molecules of two nitrogen atoms, occupies 78% of the Earth's atmosphere. It is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. Nitrogen is as important as it is common. It's essential to the nutrition of plants and animals. Nitrogen is a constituent in all proteins and in the genetic material (DNA) in all organisms.
The low content of nitrogen in most soils exists in stark contrast to the abundance of nitrogen in air. This is because gaseous nitrogen molecules have very strong bonds linking the atoms together, making the gas chemically stable and unusable by most biological organisms. Some species of bacteria absorb nitrogen from the air and convert it into ammonium, which plants can use. This process, called nitrogen fixation, is the principal natural means by which atmospheric nitrogen is added to the soil. Legumes, such as beans, can fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. This is accomplished by nitrogen-fixing bacteria living in nodules on the plant roots.
Nitrogen molecules in the atmosphere can also be broken by the energy generated by lightning strikes and volcanic action. Whenever lightning flashes in the atmosphere, some nitrogen combines with oxygen and forms the gas nitric oxide (NO). This nitric oxide is converted to nitric acid, which is highly soluble in water and falls to the ground in rainwater, to be absorbed by soils. Globally, however, nitrogen-fixing bacteria are a far more significant source of fixed nitrogen.
Trace Gases
Most of our atmosphere is made up of nitrogen (78% by volume) and oxygen (21% by volume). The remaining 1% of the atmospheric gases are known as trace gases because they are present in such small concentrations. The most abundant of the trace gases is the noble gas argon (approximately 1% by volume). Noble gases, which also include neon, helium, krypton and xenon, are very inert and do not generally engage in any chemical transformation within the atmosphere. Hydrogen is also present in trace quantities in the atmosphere, but because it is so light, over time much of it has escaped Earth's gravitational pull to space.
Despite their relative scarcity, the most important trace gases in the Earth's atmosphere are the greenhouse gases. Most abundant in the troposphere, these gases include carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, water vapour and ozone, so-called because they are involved in the Earth natural greenhouse effect which keeps the planet warmer than it would be without an atmosphere. Apart from water vapour, the most abundant greenhouse gas (by volume) is carbon dioxide. Despite being present in only 380 parts per million by volume of air, carbon dioxide and the other greenhouse gases help to keep the Earth 33°C warmer than it would otherwise be without an atmosphere. Through emissions of greenhouse gases however, mankind has enhanced with natural greenhouse effect which may now be leading to a warming of the Earth climate.
Whilst ozone behaves like a greenhouse gas in the troposphere, in the stratosphere where its abundance is most significant within the ozone layer, it helps to filter out the incoming ultraviolet radiation from the Sun, protecting life on Earth from its harmful effects. Air within the stratosphere is thin however. If all the ozone in the stratosphere was compressed to ordinary atmosphere pressure at ground level, it would occupy a layer only 3 mm thick.
Other trace gases in the atmosphere arise from natural phenomena such as volcanic eruptions, lightning strikes and forest fires. Gases from these sources include nitric oxide (NO) and sulphur dioxide (SO2). In addition to natural sources of nitric oxide and sulphur dioxide there are now many man-made sources, including pollutant emissions from cars, agriculture and electricity generation through the burning of fossil fuels. During the 20th century other man-made processes have put completely new trace gases into the atmosphere, for example the chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) which damage the ozone layer.
Aerosols
Aerosols are solid or liquid particles dispersed in the air, and include dust, soot, sea salt crystals, spores, bacteria, viruses and a plethora of other microscopic particles. Collectively, they are often regarded as air pollution, but many of the aerosols have a natural origin. They are conventionally defined as those particles suspended in air having diameters in the region of 0.001 to 10 microns (millionth of a metre). They are formed by the dispersal of material at the surface (primary aerosols), or by reaction of gases in the atmosphere (secondary aerosols). Primary aerosols include volcanic dust, organic materials from biomass burning, soot from combustion and mineral dust from wind-blown processes. Secondary aerosols include sulphates from the oxidation of sulphur-containing gases during the burning of fossil fuels, nitrates from gaseous nitrogen species, and products from the oxidation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Although making up only 1 part in a billion of the mass of the atmosphere, they have the potential to significantly influence the amount of sunlight that reaches the Earth’s surface, and therefore the Earth's climate.
Although the abundance of aerosols varies over short time scales, for example after a volcanic eruption, over the long term the atmosphere is naturally cleansed through mixing processes and rainfall. Cleansing is never complete however, and there exists a natural background level of aerosols in the atmosphere. The average time spent in the atmosphere by aerosols is dependent upon their physical and chemical characteristics, and the time and location of their release. Natural sources of aerosols are probably 4 to 5 times larger than man-made ones on a global scale, but regional variations of man-made aerosol emissions may change this ratio significantly in certain areas, particularly in the industrialised Northern Hemisphere. At certain times of the year, the natural background level of aerosols may increase, for example, during the growing season, when large quantities of pollen are released into the atmosphere
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Climate Change

March 14, 2015, 9:47 am
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Climate Change
The greenhouse effect
The types of radiation transfer and nature of the greenhouse effect are explained in detail in lesson 1. Here, an overview is included in the context of climate change. The Sun emits energy in the form of visible light and ultra-violet (UV) radiation, which travels towards the Earth. Some of this energy is absorbed by the atmosphere and some is reflected by the clouds back into space. The rest heats the Earth's surface. The Earth is much cooler than the Sun and re-radiates this heat as infra-red (IR) radiation. Some of this IR radiation is trapped by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, making the Earth warmer than it would be without an atmosphere. This is called the greenhouse effect.
Representation of the greenhouse effect.
The enhanced greenhouse effect
Increasing the concentrations of the greenhouse gases will make the natural greenhouse effect more powerful. Some of mankind's activities have resulted in an increase in the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. These extra greenhouse gases are trapping more of the heat trying to escape from the Earth and this is causing the atmosphere, and consequently the Earth's surface, to heat up. So what is commonly called the greenhouse effect is really the increase of the natural greenhouse effect due to human pollution, and should be called the "enhanced" greenhouse effect.
The key greenhouse gases and their main sources.
Man-made emissions of greenhouse gases come from a variety of sources including the burning of coal, oil and gas (the fossil fuels), destruction of the world's forests, vehicle exhausts fumes and aerosols. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is released when fossil fuels are burnt, and also through the destruction of the world's forests. Although CO2 is not the most powerful greenhouse gas it has the greatest concentration in the atmosphere after water vapour. Since 1765, its concentration has increased by 30%. Methane (CH4) emissions come mainly from modern farming methods, but also from coal mining, natural gas production and waste landfill sites. Methane concentrations have increased over 100% since 1765. Nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions come from the productions of fertilisers, nylon, chemicals and the burning of fossil fuels. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are used in air conditioning units, plastic foams and aerosol cans. CFCs are very powerful greenhouse gases compared to CO2. Even though the concentrations of CFCs in the Earth's atmosphere are very small, their total effect is significant, because they trap much more radiation than CO2. CFCs also destroy the ozone layer. Water vapour (H2O) is the most abundant greenhouse gas. It plays a role in maintaining a stable temperature on Earth through the production of clouds.
Temperature trends
Temperature records show the Earth has warmed by 0.5ºC during the 20th century. This is shown below.
Global average temperatures 1861 to 1995 relative to 1951-1980 average.
Temperature varies naturally from decade to decade and even from century to century. How can one be certain that the rise in temperature that is now occurring is due to mankind's enhancing of the Earth's natural greenhouse effect and not due to natural changes in the climate?
Scientists use computer models to simulate man-made climate change. The results show that the warming over the past 100 years is most likely to be due to mankind, and that if we continue to emit greenhouse gases at the present rate the Earth will continue to warm by 1.5ºC every 50 years. This does not sound like much, but it is useful to remember that the Earth warmed by only 5ºC at the end of the last ice age; this warming took several thousands of years.
Reducing the threat of global warming
Most greenhouse gases stay in the atmosphere for many tens of years and continue to affect the climate long after being released. If emissions of greenhouse gases stopped today, those already in the atmosphere would continue to affect the climate.
The effects of climate change could have serious impacts on the world. Sea levels may rise, affecting many low-lying coastal regions. Changes in the amount of rainfall will affect agriculture. The most at risk will be those least able to adapt to changes. To minimise these impacts, we must reduce emissions of the greenhouse gases.
There is much uncertainty about how climate change will affect us, but scientists and governments believe that we must start reducing greenhouse emissions now. The Framework Convention on Climate Change (FCCC) represents a first step to achieve this goal. Signed in June 1992 at the Rio Earth Summit, by 162 Governments, the FCCC aimed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by the year 2000. In 1997, Governments drew up the Kyoto Protocol which now commits nations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 5% from 1990 levels by the year 2012.
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Local Weather Report and Forecast For: Kakinada Dated :Mar 14, 2015

March 14, 2015, 6:42 pm
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Local Weather Report and Forecast For: Kakinada    Dated :Mar 14, 2015
Kakinada
Past 24 Hours Weather Data
Maximum Temp(oC)34.4
Departure from Normal(oC)1
Minimum Temp (oC)21.0
Departure from Normal(oC)-2
24 Hours Rainfall (mm)NIL
Todays Sunset (IST)18:11
Tommorows Sunrise (IST)06:10
Moonset (IST)12:11
Moonrise (IST)00:33
Today's Forecast:Sky condition would be partly cloudy. Maximum and minimum temperatures would be around 35 & 21 degrees celsius respectively.
Date Temperature ( o C ) Weather Forecast
Minimum Maximum
15-Mar 21.0 35.0 Partly cloudy sky
16-Mar 21.0 35.0 Partly cloudy sky
17-Mar 22.0 35.0 Partly cloudy sky with Thundery development
18-Mar 22.0 35.0 Partly cloudy sky with Thundery development
19-Mar 22.0 35.0 Partly cloudy sky with Thundery development
20-Mar 22.0 35.0 Partly cloudy sky with Thundery development

 Weather History Graph  of 14.03.15

Daily Weather History Graph



Actual
Average
Record
Temperature

Mean Temperature
28 °C
-

Max Temperature
34 °C
-
- ()
Min Temperature
21 °C
-
- ()
Cooling Degree Days
16


Growing Degree Days
31 (Base 50)


Moisture

Dew Point
21 °C


Average Humidity
63


Maximum Humidity
83


Minimum Humidity
38


Precipitation

Precipitation
0.0 mm
-
- ()
Sea Level Pressure

Sea Level Pressure
1014.88 hPa


Wind

Wind Speed
0 km/h ()


Max Wind Speed
0 km/h


Max Gust Speed
-


Visibility
7.0 kilometers


Events





T = Trace of Precipitation, MM = Missing Value
Source: Averaged Metar Reports








Hourly Weather History & Observations   
Time (IST)Temp.Dew PointHumidityPressureVisibilityWind DirWind SpeedGust SpeedPrecipEventsConditions
2:30 AM22 °C20 °C83%1014 hPa4 kmCalmCalm-- Clear
5:30 AM21 °C18 °C77%1014 hPa4 kmCalmCalm-- Clear
8:30 AM26 °C19 °C54%1017 hPa10 kmCalmCalm-- Scattered Clouds
11:30 AM33 °C23 °C46%1016 hPa10 kmCalmCalm-- Scattered Clouds
2:30 PM34 °C21 °C38%1014 hPa10 kmCalmCalm-- Scattered Clouds
5:30 PM31 °C21 °C46%1013 hPa10 kmCalmCalm-- Scattered Clouds
8:30 PM27 °C23 °C75%1015 hPa4 kmCalmCalm-- Scattered Clouds
11:30 PM25 °C22 °C81%1016 hPa4 kmCalmCalm-- Scattered Clouds

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Neelkanth Mahadev Temple near sarpvaram junction , Kakinada , EAST GODAVARI ANDHRA PRADESH

March 14, 2015, 10:28 pm
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Maha Shivaratri is the most prominent festival celebrated in the temple and lots of devotees flock to the temple during the festival. The devotees who pay a visit to Neelkanth Mahadev make an offering of Bael leaves, coconut, flowers, milk, honey, fruits and water to the Lord Shiva. The temple observes two fairs that are held annually on the occasions of Maha Shivratri (Feb-Mar) and Shivratri of Shraavana (month of Hindu calendar) (July-Aug) during which the devotees (Kawarias) trek from Haridwar to Neelkanth Mahadev Temple

Shiva (Sanskrit: Śiva, meaning "The Auspicious One"), also known as Mahadeva ("Great God"), is a popular Hindu deity. Shiva is regarded as one of the primary forms of God and also the ruler or king of gods. He is the Supreme God within Shaivism, one of the three most influential denominations in contemporary Hinduism.He is one of the five primary forms of God in the Smarta tradition, and "the Destroyer" or "the Transformer"among the Trimurti, the Hindu Trinity of the primary aspects of the divine.

At the highest level, Shiva is regarded limitless, transcendent, unchanging and formless. Shiva also has many benevolent and fearsome forms. In benevolent aspects, he is depicted as an omniscient Yogi who lives an ascetic life on Mount Kailash,as well as a householder with wife Parvati and his two children, Ganesha and Kartikeya and in fierce aspects, he is often depicted slaying demons. Shiva is also regarded as the patron god of yoga and arts.

The main iconographical attributes of Shiva are the third eye on his forehead, the snake Vasuki around his neck, the crescent moon adorning, the holy river Ganga flowing from his matted hair, the trishula as his weapon and the damaru as his instrument. Shiva is usually worshiped in the aniconic form of Lingam.

































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Environment degradation, climate change key challenges for mankind: Hamid Ansari

March 14, 2015, 11:21 pm
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Environment degradation, climate change key challenges for mankind: Hamid Ansari (Left to right) Chief Justice of India H.L. Dattu, minister of state for environment, forest and climate change (independent charge) Prakash Javadekar, Vice-President Hamid Ansari, attorney general for India Mukul Rohatgi and chairperson of National Green Tribunal Justice Swatanter Kumar at the inauguration of the “International Conference on Global Environment Issues”, in New Delhi on Saturday. Photo: Manvender Vashist/PTI New Delhi: Highlighting environment degradation and climate change as the foremost challenges confronting human civilization, vice-president Hamid Ansari on Saturday said India needs to pay greater attention to the management of all natural resources through eco-friendly policies, regulatory frameworks, pricing of natural resources and making pollution costlier for the polluter. “For us in India, the challenges of arresting the pace of degradation of environment are formidable due to the imperatives of maintaining high economic growth, increasing trends of urbanization, population growth, industrialization, unmet basic needs, life style changes and biotic pressures,” said Ansari at the inauguration of the “International Conference on Global Environment Issues” organized by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), along with the Union ministry of environment and forests (MoEF), the Indian Law Institute and industry lobby Ficci. Ansari said that to address global environmental concerns, India prefers an “aspirational” rather than a mandatory or “prescriptive” approach, “but whatever our respective national positions on these issues, the protection and preservation of environment is the common responsibility of all humanity.” Chief Justice of India H.L. Dattu, environment minister Prakash Javadekar, NGT chairperson Swatanter Kumar were among the judges, environmentalists, scientists, lawyers, experts and members of the civil society who took part in the conference. Javadekar, while speaking at the conference, said the government advocates development without destruction and is working towards amending policies in line with environment protection. “The international conference has brought together the three pillars of Indian democracy—executive, judiciary and legislature—under one roof. The three bodies should work in tandem and respect the aspirations of India’s poor and work towards achieving a sustainable development model,” said Javadekar. The comments are significant as the environment ministry and the judiciary, including NGT, has been at loggerheads over the latter’s decisions that have stalled several projects the government had been pushing for India’s growth on account of environmental concerns. He also said his ministry had been working till recently without a single advocate, but corrective measures have been taken. “Everyday when newspaper clippings come...and I see directions coming from different courts. This is a regulatory ministry without a single advocate. I am correcting the situation in-house and I ensure that next time these people will be more prepared to inform the courts,” he added. Javadekar also said the government has proposed to launch ‘Fresh Air is a Birthright’, a campaign, through public-private partnership on serious concerns over worsening air pollution in the capital and other cities. Justice Dattu said the global community was united on the issue of protection and prevention of environment. He said every citizen has a right to live with dignity and the judiciary “is forging its way ahead to provide this fundamental right to all its citizens”. “Therefore, the need is to address environmental issues prudently and urgently,” he said while citing instances where the judiciary had taken up a pro-active role to protect and preserve the environment. The chief Justice also stressed on the problem of e-waste and quality of water, while emphasizing on the importance of rehabilitating and re-location of people who were displaced owing to these decisions. Justice Swatanter Kumar said “climate change, global warming and natural disasters are a wake-up call to humanity that they should stop polluting the earth and the need of the hour is to strive a symbiotic relationship with the environment through sensitive and researched environmental management, adaptation, mitigation and risk reduction”. Mukul Rohatgi, attorney general for India, also highlighted the role of the judiciary in the protection and prevention of environment.

Read more at: http://www.livemint.com/Politics/Dq1agHpxY6O38TSPLFIbWJ/Environment-degradation-climate-change-key-challenges-for-m.html?utm_source=copy





Environment degradation, climate change key challenges for mankind: Hamid Ansari
Left to right) Chief Justice of India H.L. Dattu, minister of state for environment, forest and climate change (independent charge) Prakash Javadekar, Vice-President Hamid Ansari, attorney general for India Mukul Rohatgi and chairperson of National Green Tribunal Justice Swatanter Kumar at the inauguration of the “International Conference on Global Environment Issues”, in New Delhi on Saturday. Photo: Manvender Vashist/PTI

Read more at: http://www.livemint.com/Politics/Dq1agHpxY6O38TSPLFIbWJ/Environment-degradation-climate-change-key-challenges-for-m.html?utm_source=copy
Left to right) Chief Justice of India H.L. Dattu, minister of state for environment, forest and climate change (independent charge) Prakash Javadekar, Vice-President Hamid Ansari, attorney general for India Mukul Rohatgi and chairperson of National Green Tribunal Justice Swatanter Kumar at the inauguration of the “International Conference on Global Environment Issues”, in New Delhi on Saturday. Photo: Manvender Vashist/PTI

Read more at: http://www.livemint.com/Politics/Dq1agHpxY6O38TSPLFIbWJ/Environment-degradation-climate-change-key-challenges-for-m.html?utm_source=copy
(Left to right) Chief Justice of India H.L. Dattu, minister of state for environment, forest and climate change (independent charge) Prakash Javadekar, Vice-President Hamid Ansari, attorney general for India Mukul Rohatgi and chairperson of National Green Tribunal Justice Swatanter Kumar at the inauguration of the “International Conference on Global Environment Issues”, in New Delhi on Saturday. Photo: Manvender Vashist/PTI

New Delhi: Highlighting environment degradation and climate change as the foremost challenges confronting human civilization, vice-president Hamid Ansari on Saturday said India needs to pay greater attention to the management of all natural resources through eco-friendly policies, regulatory frameworks, pricing of natural resources and making pollution costlier for the polluter. “For us in India, the challenges of arresting the pace of degradation of environment are formidable due to the imperatives of maintaining high economic growth, increasing trends of urbanization, population growth, industrialization, unmet basic needs, life style changes and biotic pressures,” said Ansari at the inauguration of the “International Conference on Global Environment Issues” organized by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), along with the Union ministry of environment and forests (MoEF), the Indian Law Institute and industry lobby Ficci. Ansari said that to address global environmental concerns, India prefers an “aspirational” rather than a mandatory or “prescriptive” approach, “but whatever our respective national positions on these issues, the protection and preservation of environment is the common responsibility of all humanity.” Chief Justice of India H.L. Dattu, environment minister Prakash Javadekar, NGT chairperson Swatanter Kumar were among the judges, environmentalists, scientists, lawyers, experts and members of the civil society who took part in the conference. Javadekar, while speaking at the conference, said the government advocates development without destruction and is working towards amending policies in line with environment protection. “The international conference has brought together the three pillars of Indian democracy—executive, judiciary and legislature—under one roof. The three bodies should work in tandem and respect the aspirations of India’s poor and work towards achieving a sustainable development model,” said Javadekar. The comments are significant as the environment ministry and the judiciary, including NGT, has been at loggerheads over the latter’s decisions that have stalled several projects the government had been pushing for India’s growth on account of environmental concerns. He also said his ministry had been working till recently without a single advocate, but corrective measures have been taken. “Everyday when newspaper clippings come...and I see directions coming from different courts. This is a regulatory ministry without a single advocate. I am correcting the situation in-house and I ensure that next time these people will be more prepared to inform the courts,” he added. Javadekar also said the government has proposed to launch ‘Fresh Air is a Birthright’, a campaign, through public-private partnership on serious concerns over worsening air pollution in the capital and other cities. Justice Dattu said the global community was united on the issue of protection and prevention of environment. He said every citizen has a right to live with dignity and the judiciary “is forging its way ahead to provide this fundamental right to all its citizens”. “Therefore, the need is to address environmental issues prudently and urgently,” he said while citing instances where the judiciary had taken up a pro-active role to protect and preserve the environment. The chief Justice also stressed on the problem of e-waste and quality of water, while emphasizing on the importance of rehabilitating and re-location of people who were displaced owing to these decisions. Justice Swatanter Kumar said “climate change, global warming and natural disasters are a wake-up call to humanity that they should stop polluting the earth and the need of the hour is to strive a symbiotic relationship with the environment through sensitive and researched environmental management, adaptation, mitigation and risk reduction”. Mukul Rohatgi, attorney general for India, also highlighted the role of the judiciary in the protection and prevention of environment.







New Delhi: Highlighting environment degradation and climate change as the foremost challenges confronting human civilization, vice-president Hamid Ansari on Saturday said India needs to pay greater attention to the management of all natural resources through eco-friendly policies, regulatory frameworks, pricing of natural resources and making pollution costlier for the polluter. “For us in India, the challenges of arresting the pace of degradation of environment are formidable due to the imperatives of maintaining high economic growth, increasing trends of urbanization, population growth, industrialization, unmet basic needs, life style changes and biotic pressures,” said Ansari at the inauguration of the “International Conference on Global Environment Issues” organized by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), along with the Union ministry of environment and forests (MoEF), the Indian Law Institute and industry lobby Ficci. Ansari said that to address global environmental concerns, India prefers an “aspirational” rather than a mandatory or “prescriptive” approach, “but whatever our respective national positions on these issues, the protection and preservation of environment is the common responsibility of all humanity.” Chief Justice of India H.L. Dattu, environment minister Prakash Javadekar, NGT chairperson Swatanter Kumar were among the judges, environmentalists, scientists, lawyers, experts and members of the civil society who took part in the conference. Javadekar, while speaking at the conference, said the government advocates development without destruction and is working towards amending policies in line with environment protection. “The international conference has brought together the three pillars of Indian democracy—executive, judiciary and legislature—under one roof. The three bodies should work in tandem and respect the aspirations of India’s poor and work towards achieving a sustainable development model,” said Javadekar. The comments are significant as the environment ministry and the judiciary, including NGT, has been at loggerheads over the latter’s decisions that have stalled several projects the government had been pushing for India’s growth on account of environmental concerns. He also said his ministry had been working till recently without a single advocate, but corrective measures have been taken. “Everyday when newspaper clippings come...and I see directions coming from different courts. This is a regulatory ministry without a single advocate. I am correcting the situation in-house and I ensure that next time these people will be more prepared to inform the courts,” he added. Javadekar also said the government has proposed to launch ‘Fresh Air is a Birthright’, a campaign, through public-private partnership on serious concerns over worsening air pollution in the capital and other cities. Justice Dattu said the global community was united on the issue of protection and prevention of environment. He said every citizen has a right to live with dignity and the judiciary “is forging its way ahead to provide this fundamental right to all its citizens”. “Therefore, the need is to address environmental issues prudently and urgently,” he said while citing instances where the judiciary had taken up a pro-active role to protect and preserve the environment. The chief Justice also stressed on the problem of e-waste and quality of water, while emphasizing on the importance of rehabilitating and re-location of people who were displaced owing to these decisions. Justice Swatanter Kumar said “climate change, global warming and natural disasters are a wake-up call to humanity that they should stop polluting the earth and the need of the hour is to strive a symbiotic relationship with the environment through sensitive and researched environmental management, adaptation, mitigation and risk reduction”. Mukul Rohatgi, attorney general for India, also highlighted the role of the judiciary in the protection and prevention of environment.

Read more at: http://www.livemint.com/Politics/Dq1agHpxY6O38TSPLFIbWJ/Environment-degradation-climate-change-key-challenges-for-m.html?utm_source=copy











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16 Vehicles You Will Only Spot On Incredible India's Streets

March 15, 2015, 4:02 am
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16 Vehicles You Will Only Spot On Incredible India's Streets

1. Looking for a ride on a helicopter rickshaw?

rickshaw
Image Credit: imgur

2. If you're royal, your ride has to be royal too.

car

3. When a two-seater becomes a six-seater.

scooter
Image Credit: imgur

4. When a cycle and a rickshaw combine, you get this.

rickshaw
Image Credit: imgur

5. One of India's greatest jugaads. 

car
Image Credit: Guardian

6. Ain't this the coolest 'baail gaadi' ever?

Bullock cart
Image Credit: imgur

7. Drive and snap pictures at the same time.

camera car
Image Credit: autorevolution

8. When carousels become a mode of transport.

rickshaw
Image Credit: imgur

9. Now you can ride a burger too.

Burger
Image Credit: imgur

10. How do we protect ourselves from the sun while driving?

cycle
Image Credit: imgur

11. What gold.

shoes
Image Credit: myindianpictures.com

12. A drive to break the habit.

cigarrete
Image Credit: imgur

13. Heels which can kill.

shoes
Image Credit: imgur

14. A ghoda-car-gaadi.

car
Image Credit: myindianpictures.com

15. A torture chamber on wheels.

school
Image Credit: myfunnyindiapictures.com

16. Tuk Tuk (version 2.0)

car
Image Credit: imgur

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What is the Energy Crisis?

March 15, 2015, 6:22 am
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What is the Energy Crisis?

The energy crisis is the concern that the world’s demands on the limited natural resources that are used to power industrial society are diminishing as the demand rises. These natural resources are in limited supply. While they do occur naturally, it can take hundreds of thousands of years to replenish the stores. Governments and concerned individuals are working to make the use of renewable resources a priority, and to lessen the irresponsible use of natural supplies through increased conservation.

The energy crisis is a broad and complex topic. Most people don’t feel connected to its reality unless the price of gas at the pump goes up or there are lines at the gas station. The energy crisis is something that is ongoing and getting worse, despite many efforts. The reason for this is that there is not a broad understanding of the complex causes and solutions for the energy crisis that will allow for an effort to happen that will resolve it.

According to the Wikipedia,
“An energy crisis is any great bottleneck (or price rise) in the supply of energy resources to an economy. In popular literature though, it often refers to one of the energy sources used at a certain time and place, particularly those that supply national electricity grids or serve as fuel for vehicles. “

Energy-crisis
How Real is the Energy Crisis?

During election years there is a renewed debate on how “real” the energy crisis is in the world. One side will always say it is based on faulty science and politics; the other will say that the other side is basing their findings on junk science and political interests. The best way to sum up the reality of the energy crisis is that you cannot have growing demands on limited resources without eventually running out of the resource. That is just common sense. What is really at play in the discussion about how real the energy crisis is concerns the perception of responsibility for the future. There is no real energy crisis if you are not concerned about life after your time on Earth is gone. There is a very real energy crisis if you care about the future that the next generations will inherit.
Causes of the Energy Crisis
It would be easy to point a finger at one practice or industry and lay the blame for the entire energy crisis at their door, but that would be a very naive and unrealistic interpretation of the cause of the crisis.

1. Overconsumption: The energy crisis is a result of many different strains on our natural resources, not just one. There is a strain on fossil fuels such as oil, gas and coal due to overconsumption – which then in turn can put a strain on our water and oxygen resources by causing pollution.

2. Overpopulation: Another cause of the crisis has been the steady increase in the world’s population and its demands for fuel and products. No matter what type of food or products you choose to use – from fair trade and organic to those made from petroleum products in a sweatshop – not one of them is made or transported without a significant drain on our energy resources.

3. Poor Infrastructure: Aging infrastructure of power generating equipment is yet another reason for energy shortage. Most of the energy producing firms keep on using outdated equipment that restricts the production of energy. It is the responsibility of utilities to keep on upgrading the infrastructure and set a high standard of performance.

4. Unexplored Renewable Energy Options: Renewable energy still remains unused is most of the countries. Most of the energy comes from non-renewable sources like coal. It still remains the top choice to produce energy. Unless we give renewable energy a serious thought, the problem of energy crisis cannot be solved. Renewable energy sources can reduce our dependance on fossil fuels and also helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

5. Delay in Commissioning of Power Plants: In few countries, there is a significant delay in commissioning of new power plants that can fill the gap between demand and supply of energy. The result is that old plants come under huge stress to meet the daily demand for power. When supply doesn’t matches demand, it results in load shedding and breakdown.

6. Wastage of Energy: In most parts of the world, people do not realize the importance of conserving energy. It is only limited to books, internet, newspaper ads, lip service and seminars. Unless we give it a serious thought, things are not going to change anytime sooner. Simple things like switching off fans and lights when not in use, using maximum daylight, walking instead of driving for short distances, using CFL instead of traditional bulbs, proper insulation for leakage of energy can go a long way in saving energy.

7. Poor Distribution System: Frequent tripping and breakdown are result of a poor distribution system.

8. Major Accidents and Natural Calamities: Major accidents like pipeline burst and natural calamities like eruption of volcanoes, floods, earthquakes can also cause interruptions to energy supplies. The huge gap between supply and demand of energy can raise the price of essential items which can give rise to inflation.

9. Wars and Attacks: Wars between countries can also hamper supply of energy specially if it happens in Middle East countries like Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Iran, Kuwait, UAE or Qatar. That’s what happened during 1990 Gulf war when price of oil reached its peak causing global shortages and created major problem for energy consumers.

10. Miscellaneous Factors: Tax hikes, strikes, military coup, political events, severe hot summers or cold winters can cause sudden increase in demand of energy and can choke supply. A strike by unions in an oil producing firm can definitely cause an energy crisis.

EnergyCrisis
Possible Solutions of the Energy Crisis

Many of the possible solutions are already in place today, but they have not been widely adopted.

1. Move Towards Renewable Resources: The best possible solution is to reduce the world’s dependence on non-renewable resources and to improve overall conservation efforts. Much of the industrial age was created using fossil fuels, but there is also known technology that uses other types of renewable energies – such as steam, solar and wind. The major concern isn’t so much that we will run out of gas or oil, but that the use of coal is going to continue to pollute the atmosphere and destroy other natural resources in the process of mining the coal that it has to be replaced as an energy source. This isn’t easy as many of the leading industries use coal, not gas or oil, as their primary source of power for manufacturing.

2. Buy Energy Efficient products: Replace traditional bulbs with CFL’s and LED’s. They use less watts of electricity and last longer. If millions of people across the globe use LED’s and CFL’s for residential and commercial purposes, the demand for energy can go down and an energy crisis can be averted.

3. Lighting Controls: There are a number of new technologies out there that make lighting controls that much more interesting and they help to save a lot of energy and cash in the long run. Preset lighting controls, slide lighting, touch dimmers, integrated lighting controls are few of the lighting controls that can help to conserve energy and reduce overall lighting costs.

4. Easier Grid Access: People who use different options to generate power must be given permission to plug into the grid and getting credit for power you feed into it. The hassles of getting credit of supplying surplus power back into the grid should be removed. Apart from that, subsidy on solar panels should be given to encourage more people to explore renewable options.

5. Energy Simulation: Energy simulation software can be used by big corporates and corporations to redesign building unit and reduce running business energy cost. Engineers, architects and designers could use this design to come with most energy efficient building and reduce carbon footprint.

6. Perform Energy Audit: Energy audit is a process that helps you to identify the areas where your home or office is losing energy and what steps you can take to improve energy efficiency. Energy audit when done by a professional can help you to reduce your carbon footprint, save energy and money and avoid energy crisis.

7. Common Stand on Climate Change: Both developed and developing countries should adopt a common stand on climate change. They should focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions through an effective cross border mechanism. With current population growth and over consumption of resources, the consequences of global warming and climate change cannot be ruled out. Both developed and developing countries must focus on emissions cuts to cut their emission levels to half from current levels by 2050.
What is Being Done Today?

There are many global initiatives that are working towards resolving the energy crisis. This has taken the form of increased regulation and restriction on carbon emissions, the promotion of greener manufacturing and construction projects, the funding of research into hybrid technologies and more sustainable technologies and more. Locally, more communities are seeing beyond the recycle bin and recognizing that how the community uses their local resources is important too. More community gardens, parks and farmer’s markets are springing up not only as a means of introducing more sustainable elements into people’s, but as an important part of educating the public about the importance of resources.
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151 Ways to Save Energy

March 15, 2015, 6:25 am
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151 Ways to Save Energy
The consumption of fossil fuels has been going at a steady pace since last century and has contributed much to the degradation of our environment. Climate change, global warming, extinction of several endangered species, depletion of ozone layer, increase in air pollution are few of the effects from which our environment is suffering. Although many countries have taken steps to move toward clean and green energy sources like solar energy, wind energy and geothermal energy to save energy, still there is long way to go before we can leave fossil fuels behind and depend on these natural sources of energy for our daily needs.
Below are 151 ways that you can use to save and conserve energy and make this planet a better and clean place for our future generations to come.
Heating Systems
1. Inspect windows and ductwork for any air leakage. If you do feel air leaking at duct joints, use duct tape to seal them. Winterize windows with weather stripping (for all movable parts) and caulk (for non-moving parts). Eliminating these leaks can reduce heating costs up to 10%.
2. Use kitchen, bath and other ventilating fans sparingly. Leaving them on too long will suck away a tremendous amount of household heat. Turn them off when their job is complete.
3. Turn down your thermostat at night or when you’re away for more than four hours during the day. Do not turn off your heating system entirely as this may cause pipes to freeze.
4. Keep heating supply registers and cold-air return registers clear of draperies and furniture to maintain proper air circulation.

5. Keep drapes and shades open during the day to let the sunshine in; close them at night.
6. Dust or vacuum radiator surfaces frequently. Dust and grime impede the flow of heat.
7. Keep lamps, TVs and other electrical appliances away from the thermostat. Heat from these appliances is sensed by the thermostat and could cause your furnace to shut off too soon and restart frequently.
8. Dress warmly to help retain body heat. Wear closely woven fabrics. Dressing in layers retains more heat than a single thick piece of clothing.
9. Keep garage doors closed in winter. An open garage door is just a giant hole that sucks warm air out of your home and lets cold drafts in.
10. When having company, turn down the thermostat before your guests arrive. Their collective body heat will add to the room temperature.
11. Warm with a space heater. A portable space heater can heat a single room without using your furnace to heat the whole house. Using a space heater to heat all or most of your home costs more. Always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions when operating space heaters.
12. Use natural gas for heating. Consider switching to a natural gas heating system. Natural gas is less expensive than other heating fuels.
KITCHEN
13. Boil water in a kettle or covered pan; the water will boil faster and use less energy.
14. Keep range-top burners and reflectors clean. They will reflect heat better and you will save energy.
15. Match the size of the pan to the heating element. More heat will get to the pan, and less will be dissipated.
16. Turn off the stove or oven five to 10 minutes before cooking time is up and let trapped heat finish the cooking.
17. Avoid opening the oven door repeatedly to check food while it cooks. This allows heat to escape and requires more energy to complete the job. Use a timer to let you know when food is ready.
18. Use small electric cooking appliances (such as portable grills and skillets) for small meals rather than the stove or oven.
19. Don’t preheat the oven unless absolutely necessary and then for no more than 10 minutes.
20. Avoid using the broiler as much as possible; it uses a great deal of energy.
21. Thaw frozen foods thoroughly before cooking.
22. Barbecue outside as much as possible during warm weather months.
23. Cook during cooler hours (early morning and late evening) whenever possible.
24. Use a microwave to cook meals whenever possible; it uses about half the energy of a conventional oven.
25. Use crock pots and slow cookers; they can be as much at 75% more energy efficient than stoves and ovens.
26. After using your oven, leave it open a crack to let warm air escape into your kitchen. (Don’t do this if you have children or pets around).
27. Use smaller kitchen appliances whenever possible. Microwaves, toaster ovens and slow-cookers can use 75 percent less energy than a large electric oven.
28. Water heaters should be close to kitchen so that it does not have to travel through a long distance of pipe and lose its heat.
WATER HEATER
29. Purchase an energy-efficient model. The initial cost may be more but operating costs are less in the long run. Consider a tank less or instantaneous water heater, which uses energy only when hot water is needed, rather than maintaining 40 gallons or more of hot water all the time.
30. Purchase the correct size. Consider your family’s hot water needs. If your water heater is too large, it uses more energy than needed. If it is too small, you may run out of hot water.
31. Purchase a natural gas water heater. If you currently have an electric water heater, consider replacing it with a natural gas water heater. When it comes to heating water, natural gas is less expensive than electricity, and it heats more water faster during heavy use. Consider a sealed combustion or an on-demand water heater. Both types use less energy.
32. Install your water heater near the kitchen. The kitchen is where you use the hottest water. When the water heater is located near the kitchen, hot water doesn’t have to travel as far and less heat is lost.
33. Insulate water pipes. Use half-inch foam or pipe tape for insulation wherever pipes are exposed. On cold water pipes, insulate four to five feet nearest to the water heater. Pipe insulation can save you up to $25 annually.
34. Set the water temperature to 120° F. It takes less energy to heat water to a lower temperature. If you have an electric water heater, you’ll have to remove the cover plate of the thermostat to adjust the temperature. For safety reasons, remember to turn off the water heater at the circuit breaker/fuse before changing the temperature.
35. Repair dripping faucets promptly. If the faucet leaks hot water, the energy used to heat it is costing you money. (One drop a second can waste up to 48 gallons a week!)
36. Install a heat loop or in-line trap. If you add a new water heater to your home, consider having a heat loop or in-line trap installed. These mechanisms can be inexpensive to install and keep hot water from moving into the piping system when you are not using hot water. Ask your plumbing contractor for details.
37. Insulate the outside of your electric water heater with an insulation blanket to reduce heat loss; this can easily save you $10 to $20 per year.
38. Turn down your hot water heater to its lowest setting when you go on vacation or are away from the house for an extended time period.
39. Drain a bucket of water out of the hot water heater once a year to remove sediment and dirty water and improve heating efficiency.
FANS & LIGHTING
40. Use Energy Star compact fluorescent light bulbs. Energy Star compact fluorescent light bulbs last longer and use up to 75 percent less energy than standard light bulbs.

41. Use halogen light bulbs for outdoor lighting (spot lights, flood lights, security lights). They use about 25% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.
42. Turn off lights in any room not being used. Turn on outdoor lights only when needed.
43. When using incandescent bulbs, use the lowest wattage possible or convenient. In many cases a lower wattage bulb can be substituted for the one currently being used.
44. Light-zone your home to save electricity. Concentrate lighting to areas where needed for reading, work and safety. Reduce lighting in little used areas.
45. Install lighting dimmer switches; they save energy by reducing the lighting intensity in a room.
46. Keep light bulbs dust-free. Dust on bulbs could be reducing your light output by 50%.
47. Use timers, motion detectors, heat sensors or photocell controls for light fixtures when possible.
48. Use satin or semi-gloss paint on your walls will reflect more light and allow you to use lower watt bulbs.
49. Put your computer to sleep instead of using a screen saver.
50. Laser printers use an incredible amount of energy. Switch to ink-jet printers.
51. Get rid of your CRT monitor. CRT monitors are energy hogs. Get an LCD monitor for your computer instead.
52. Dump your desktop computer. Laptops use a fraction of the electricity that desktop use.
ROOM AIR CONDITIONER
53. Don’t over-cool. The ideal thermostat setting is between 75°F and 78°F. Every degree you raise your thermostat can result in a 5% savings on the cost of cooling your home.
54. Keep lamps, televisions and other heat sources away from the air conditioner thermostat. Heat from these sources may cause the air conditioner unit to run longer than it should.
55. Make sure that no furniture or other obstacles are blocking ducts or fans. This will enable cooled air to circulate more freely.
56. When selecting a central air conditioning unit, be sure to choose one that is sized appropriately for your home and uses the minimal amount of electricity to complete its task. Air conditioners with high Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratios (SEERs) – such as 13.0 SEER and above – provide the greatest energy efficiency.
57. Install a ventilating fan in your attic or in an upstairs window to help dissipate hot air and cool down your home.
58. Don’t set your thermostat at a colder setting than normal when you turn your air conditioner on. It will not cool the room any faster, but it will use more energy.
59. Use a ceiling fan in conjunction with your air conditioner to spread cooled air to other rooms.
60. Clean the outside air conditioner condenser coil once a year. Turn off the unit and spray the coils with water at a low pressure to remove dirt, dust, leaves and grime.
61. Use duct tape to seal the cracks between each section of an air duct on your central air conditioning or forced heating system.
62. Close your blinds, curtains and shades during the hottest part of the day. Keep out the daytime sun with vertical louvers or awnings on the outside of your windows.
63. Keep lights low or off when not needed. Electric lights generate unnecessary room heat.
REFRIGERATORS & FREEZERS
64. Vacuum the coils on your refrigerator at least every three months. Dust and dirt build-up makes the refrigerator work harder and uses more energy.
65. Set the refrigerator thermostat at 38 degrees F for fresh food compartments and 5 degrees F for the freezer compartment.
66. Regularly defrost your freezer. Frost buildup increases the amount of energy needed to keep the refrigerator at its proper temperature. Never allow frost to build up more than one quarter of an inch.
67. Don’t place your refrigerator or freezer in direct sunlight or near the stove.
68. Make sure your refrigerator door seals airtight. Test them by closing the door on a piece of paper or dollar bill so it is half in and half out of the refrigerator. If you can pull the paper or dollar out easily, the hinge may need adjusting or the seal may need replacing.
69. Keep the refrigerator door closed. Each time you open the refrigerator, up to 1/4 of the cold air inside can leak out. Stop making unnecessary trips to the fridge.
70. Purchase an Energy Star model. When buying a new refrigerator or freezer, look for the Energy Star label. Energy Star refrigerators and freezers can save you hundreds of dollars on your electric bill over the life of the appliance. Remember, older refrigerators and freezers use two to three times more electricity than ones that are 10 years old or less.
71. Select the right size. Determine your household’s needs before purchasing a refrigerator or freezer. One that is too large wastes energy.
72. Only use one refrigerator or freezer. You can spend up to $120 in electricity per year using a second refrigerator or freezer. If you want to use a second refrigerator or freezer during holidays or for special occasions, turn it on one to two days before you need it.
73. Defrost a manual-defrost unit regularly. Frost makes your unit work harder and wastes energy. Don’t allow more than one-quarter inch of frost to build up.
74. Stay away from direct heat. Place the refrigerator or freezer away from direct sunlight and other heat sources such as ovens or ranges. Heat will cause the unit to use more energy to stay cold.
DISHWASHER
75.When buying a dishwasher, look for an energy-efficient model with air power or overnight dry setting. These features automatically turn off the dishwasher after the rinse cycle. This can save you up to 10% of your dishwashing energy costs.
76. Scrape dishes and rinse with cold water before loading them into the dishwasher. Avoid using the dishwasher’s pre-rinse cycle.

77. Don’t use the “rinse-hold” on your machine for just a few soiled dishes. It uses several gallons of hot water each time you use it.
78. Run full loads. Always wait until you have a full load before running your dishwasher. Full loads use the same amount of hot water and energy as smaller loads. You run fewer loads and save energy.
79. Use short cycles. Select the shortest cycle that properly cleans your dishes. Shorter cycles use less hot water and less energy.
80. Skip rinsing the dishes. If you do rinse, use cold water.
81. Clean the filter. If your dishwasher has a filter screen, clean it regularly. A clean appliance runs more efficiently.
82. Don’t bother pre-rinsing dishes with the idea that your dishwasher will work less hard.
BUYING NEW APPLIANCES
83. Remember that it pays to invest in energy efficiency. In some cases, the money you save in energy costs can pay back the purchase price in just a few years.
84. Always read the Energy Guide label carefully, and make sure you’re comparing “apples to apples.” Energy use can range significantly even within a single brand.
85. Choose the capacity that’s right for your family. Whether it’s a furnace or a refrigerator, it doesn’t pay to purchase a unit that’s too large or too small.
86. In almost every case, a natural gas appliance is more economical to use than an electric model. The $50-75 price difference can be paid back in energy savings in less than a year.
87. Replace inefficient appliances – even if they’re still working. An aging water heater or refrigerator could be costing you much more than you think. If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, replacing it with a high-efficiency new unit will cut your summer electric bills by about one-third.
88. Shop during the off-season. Many heating and cooling manufacturers offer significant rebates during seasonal sales promotions, and dealers may charge less for installation.
89. Investigate new technology carefully. Some innovations, like convection ovens or argon-filled windows, may save energy and make life more convenient; others, such as commercial-grade kitchen appliances, might be merely expensive cosmetic enhancements.
90. Look for the “Energy Star” logo. This designation from the Environmental Protection Agency means that the appliance exceeds minimum federal energy- use standards, usually by a significant amount.
91. Don’t forget to ask about warranties, service contracts, and delivery and installation costs.
WASHER, DRYER & LAUNDRY
92.Wash clothes in warm or cold water instead of hot water. Rinse in cold water; this can save you about $50 per year.
93. Put a dry towel in the dryer with each load of wet clothes. The towel will absorb dampness and reduce drying time, thus saving energy and money.
94. Fill washers and clothes dryers but do not overload them.
95. Clean the lint screen after each load of laundry and check the exhaust regularly. Clogged, dirty lint screens and exhausts can increase drying time and energy usage.
96. Use a front-loading washing machine; they require less water and energy than other washing machines.
97. Use less detergent and skip the extra rinse cycle on your washing machine to save water and time. If your clothes need to be rinsed twice, you’re using too much soap.
98. Adjust the water level. If you have a washer that allows you to control the load’s water level, adjust the level according to laundry load size. You can save energy by using less hot water for small loads.
99. Run full loads. Always run a full load in your washer or dryer. Running a partial load uses the same amount of energy as a full load – but you get less done. Running full loads allows you to run your washer or dryer less often.

100. Dry your clothes on an outside clothesline whenever possible
101. Rinse in cold water. Rinse water temperature has no effect on cleaning. Rinsing with cold water saves money by heating less water.
102. Place the washer close to the water heater. Water loses heat as it flows through pipes. When the washer is located near the water heater, hot water doesn’t have to travel as far to reach the washer, and less heat is lost. Insulating the pipes between the water heater and washer helps retain heat, too
FOR TRAVELERS
103. Put indoor and outdoor lights on timers.
104. Don’t leave your lights on 24/7 while you’re away.
105. Put water heater on the vacation setting, if it has one.
106. Choose green-rated hotels when travelling for business or pleasure.
107. Pull the plug on my battery chargers. Laptops, cell phones and digital cameras always draw power if they’re plugged in.
108. If you travel at 65 mph instead of 55, you are penalized by lowering your mileage 12.5 percent. If you get your vehicle up to 75 mph, you’re losing 25 percent compared with mileage at 55 mph.
109. A loaded roof rack can decrease an SUV’s fuel efficiency by 5 percent and that of a more aerodynamic car by 15 percent or more.
110. Stick with regular. If your car’s manufacturer specifies regular gas, don’t buy premium with the thought of going faster or operating more efficiently.
111. After starting the car in the morning, begin driving right away; don’t let it sit and “warm up” for several minutes.
112. If your windows don’t have a low-E coating, consider applying a self-adhesive film on the glass.
113. Use reusable containers for food storage instead of wrapping food in foil or plastic wrap.
114. Be aware of your paint you use – Use latex paint instead of oil-based paint. Oil-based paint is highly toxic.
AT OFFICE
115. Train myself or an employee to become an Energy Conservation Officer.
116.Making conservation someone’s responsibility will set your business on the path of saving energy.
117. Participate in an OPA commercial demand response program.
118. Install effective automatic door closer. Doors can’t save energy if they’re not closed
119. Educate and encourage employees who identify and implement energy savings.
120. Reward the people who work with me for their innovative, money-saving ideas.
121. Celebrate the implementation of successful energy efficiency measures.
122. Ensure meeting rooms are equipped with light switches.
AT WORK- EMPLOYEES
123. Turn off meeting room lights when not in use.
124. In the summer, unnecessary lighting can increase air conditioning load.
125. Dim, turn off or remove lights near windows in the daytime.
126. Use efficient task lighting where needed.
127. Unplug coffeemakers, toasters and microwaves. Make sure they’re unplugged on weekends and before shutting the office down for the holidays.

128. Use the stairs instead of taking the elevator. It not only saves energy, it’s good exercise too.
129. Consider double-sided printing, re-using paper, and using e-mail instead of mailing or faxing documents.
WHILE DRIVING
130.When driving, avoid quick breaking and starting as it decreases mileage.
131. Don’t start the car before settling well in it. Read more on gas saving tips.
132. Avoid as much as possible getting stuck in traffic jams as they also decrease mileage.
133. Keep your tires properly inflated-under-inflated tires will reduce mileage.
134. Use premium unleaded gasoline because it is more efficient, although it’s debatable.
135. Use air conditioning only when it is necessary.
136. Open window or close them to adjust the heat instead of using the air conditioner.
137. Park in a shade to prevent your car from overheating and reliance on air-conditioning.
138. Service your air conditioner to ensure it works efficiently and it does not leak CFC’s.
139. Do not turn off your engine if you are stopping for less than 30 seconds.
140. Drive slowly, my mile-per-gallon indicator runs at highest efficiency at 55 mph speed on high ways.
OTHER ENERGY SAVERS
141. Get rid of spare refrigerators or freezers. An extra appliance can add more than $100 to your energy bills every year, and it’s a safety hazard for small children.
142. Keep outdoor hot tubs covered when not in use. If you have a pool, use a solar cover to use the natural warmth of the sun to heat the water.
143. Keep waterbeds covered with quilts or blankets to help retain their heat. You might also want to insulate the bottom with a sheet of rigid foam insulation.
144. Keep the garage door closed, especially during the winter.
145. If you need a new lawn mower, consider an electric model. They’re less expensive to operate (about three cents of electricity per use), 75 percent quieter, and they significantly reduce toxic emissions.
146. Instead of air-polluting and expensive charcoal or propane, try an electric or natural gas grill. They’re more economical and more convenient – you’ll never run out of fuel.
147. Unplug any electrical device that’s not being used. Many appliances, especially computers, televisions and VCR’s draw power even when turned off.
148. Place humidifiers and dehumidifiers away from walls and bulky furniture. These appliances work best when air circulates freely around them. Be sure to clean the unit often to prevent unhealthy mold and bacteria from developing.
149. If your home has no sidewall insulation, place heavy furniture like bookshelves, armoires and sofas along exterior walls, and use decorative quilts as wall hangings. This will help block cold air.
150.When you take a vacation, don’t forget to give your appliances a rest too. Turn off and unplug everything you can, set your water heater to the lowest setting and shut off the water supply to the dishwasher and washing machine.
151. Use public transit whenever possible.
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Natural Gas Pros and Cons

March 15, 2015, 6:47 am
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Natural Gas Pros and Cons

Natural gas is one of the big three fossil fuels that the world runs on. In recent decades, there has been more of an effort to move away from coal and gas when it comes to providing heat and power as they produce high levels of pollution. The reserves for coal and natural gas are also being swiftly depleted, Natural gas is the obvious choice for replacing them as a major energy source, but there are many pros and cons of natural gas use.

Proponents of both sides, when it comes to talking about the pros and cons of natural gas have a tendency to only stick to isolated facts in promoting their view. The real scientific evaluation of the viability of an energy source comes in seeing both sides together. In order to decide how viable natural gas is for power, you have to consider the pros and cons of natural gas at the same time.

Natural-gas-pros
Pros of Natural Gas

1. Produces Less Soot:  Natural gas is always pointed towards when it comes to producing less pollution than other fossil fuels in its production as its byproducts are in gaseous form. It burns cleaner than gasoline or diesel. It releases 45% less carbon dioxide than coal and 30% less than oil and has therefore less impact on the environment.

2. Abundant Supply: It is abundant and available worldwide. There are over a trillion barrels of natural gas reserves in the US alone that have not been harvested. Just like oil and coal, natural gas is a finite source that has to be conserved to be a viable power source. In the coming years, many sites are waiting to be discovered.

3. Infrastructure in Place: The technology to produce natural gas already exists as the same is used to harness fossil fuels. The familiarity with the current technology makes it easier for us to harness natural gas in the same way. It is used extensively for power generation and heat.

4. Cheaper: Natural gas vehicles are far more energy efficient, as are other engines powered by it – which makes them cheaper to run. Given that most of the engines in the world of all types are gas based, the cost of converting or replacing them is prohibitive. It is most common used fuel in homes for heating and cooking purposes.

5. Transportation: Natural gas can be easily transported via ships, tankers and pipes. It is lighter and easier to transport in terms of carbon footprint. This makes natural gas a viable option to be used in residential homes. One of the main benefit of natural gas is that it is used to make plastics, chemicals, fertilizers and hydrogen.

Natural-gas-cons
Cons of Natural Gas

1. Highly Inflammable: Natural gas is a highly flammable substance that can cause significantly more damage should there be an accident. Natural gas leaks can cause fires or explosions, if not handled carefully. It is colorless, tasteless and odorless and cannot be detected by smell unless an odorant is added to it.

2. Greenhouse Gas Emissions: When natural gas is burnt, it releases carbon-dioxide, monoxide, and other carbon compounds in the atmosphere. These gases transfer carbon from the earth to the atmosphere, thus contributing towards greenhouse effect.

3. Non-Sustainable: Natural gas is non-renewable and will eventually expire one day like other fossil fuels. It is not a sustainable form of energy and is not an answer to ever growing energy crisis problem that this world is facing. The need is to look beyond that and invest heavily is renewable form of technologies.

4. Not Easy to Use: To use natural gas, all the components except methane have to be extracted. This results in several byproducts such as hydrocarbons (ethane, propane, etc.), sulfur, water vapor, carbon dioxide, and even helium and nitrogen.

5. Expensive Pipelines: The infrastructure needed to use natural gas is very expensive as long pipes, specialized tanks, and separate plumbing systems need to be used. Long distance transmission and transportation requires extra cost. Fixing of leaking pipes add to the running cost.

As you can see, nothing is easy when it comes to balancing the pros and cons of natural gas. While it hasn’t been as heavily used as other fossil fuels, and therefore there is a greater supply of it – it is also a limited resource. By switching to a heavier demand on that resource, it can become just as depleted as our other fuel reserves. It also has its own downsides when it comes to environmental damage and pollution.

In weighing the main 5 pros and cons of natural gas it is important to remember that the decision that has to be made is one that seeks balance. As a world, we need to relieve our demand on the already strained resources of coal and oil, and natural gas may be the perfect way to do that in the short term. You can’t lose sight of the long term impact of increased natural gas use. The pros and cons of natural gas need to always stay at the forefront of any initiative to further advance the development of sustainable and renewable energy sources too.

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BEAUTIFUL NATURE

March 15, 2015, 8:58 am
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Local Weather Report and Forecast For: Kakinada Dated :Mar 15, 2015

March 15, 2015, 6:31 pm
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Local Weather Report and Forecast For: Kakinada    Dated :Mar 15, 2015
Kakinada
Past 24 Hours Weather Data
Maximum Temp(oC)34.3
Departure from Normal(oC)0
Minimum Temp (oC)22.0
Departure from Normal(oC)-1
24 Hours Rainfall (mm)NIL
Todays Sunset (IST)18:11
Tommorows Sunrise (IST)06:09
Moonset (IST)13:08
Moonrise (IST)01:28
Today's Forecast:Sky condition would be Partly cloudy. Maximum and minimum temperatures would be around 34 & 22 degrees celsius respectively.
Date Temperature ( o C ) Weather Forecast
Minimum Maximum
16-Mar 22.0 34.0 Partly cloudy sky
17-Mar 22.0 34.0 Partly cloudy sky with Thundery development
18-Mar 22.0 34.0 Partly cloudy sky with Thundery development
19-Mar 23.0 34.0 Partly cloudy sky with Thundery development
20-Mar 23.0 35.0 Partly cloudy sky with Thundery development
21-Mar 23.0 35.0 Partly cloudy sky with Thundery development

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For World Water Day 22 March

March 16, 2015, 5:32 am
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If you think about it, water links to almost everything in the world. Health. Nature. Urbanization. Industry. Energy. Food. Equality.
In 2015, the world will agree on how we want to shape our sustainable future. And for this future to happen we need water and sanitation



Humanity Needs Water
A drop of water is flexible. A drop of water is powerful.
A drop of water is in demand.
Water is at the core of sustainable development. Water resources, and the range of services they provide, underpin poverty reduction, economic growth and environmental sustainability. From food and energy security to human and environmental health, water contributes to improvements in social well-being and inclusive growth, affecting the livelihoods of billions




Water is health
Clean hands can save your life.
Water is essential to human health. The human body can last weeks without food, but only days without water. Water is essential to our survival. Regular handwashing, is for example one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others. Up to one trillion germs can live in one gram of poop. 
As for the human body, in average it is made of  50-65% water. Babies have the highest percentage of water; newborns are 78% water.  Every day, every person needs access to water for drinking, cooking and personal hygiene. Water is essential for sanitation facilities that do not compromise health or dignity. The World Health Organization recommends 7.5 liters per capita per day will meet the requirements of most people under most conditions. A higher quantity of about 20 liters per capita per day will take care of basic hygiene needs and basic food hygiene.
Despite impressive gains made over the last decade, 748 million people do not have access to an improved source of drinking water and 2.5 billion do not use an improved sanitation facility. Investments in water and sanitation services result in substantial economic gains. The return on investment of attaining universal access to improved sanitation has been estimated at 5.5 to 1, whereas for universal access of improved drinking-water sources the ration is estimated to be 2 to 1.To cover every person worldwide with safe water and sanitation is estimated to cost US$ 107 billion a year over a five-year period.
share:

Water is nature
Ecosystems lie at the heart of the
global water cycle. 
Ecosystems – including, for example, forests, wetlands and grassland – lie at the heart of the global water cycle. All freshwater ultimately depends on the continued healthy functioning of ecosystems, and recognizing the water cycle is essential to achieving sustainable water management. Yet most economic models do not value the essential services provided by freshwater ecosystems. This leads to unsustainable use of water resources and ecosystem degradation. For example, the Okavango river in Africa is one of the last unspoilt ecosystems on earth. Pollution from untreated residential and industrial wastewater and agricultural run-off also weakens the capacity of ecosystem to provide water-related services.
There is a need to shift towards environmentally sustainable economic policies that take account of the interconnection between ecological systems. One challenge is to maintain a beneficial mix between built and natural infrastructure and provision of their respective services.
Economic arguments can make the preservation of ecosystems relevant to decision-makers and planners. Ecosystem valuation demonstrates that benefits far exceed costs of water-related investments in ecosystem conservation. Valuation is also important in assessing trade-offs in ecosystem conservation, and can be used to better inform development plans. Adoption of ‘ecosystem-based management’ is key to ensuring water long-term sustainability.
share:

Water is urbanization
 
Every week, one million people
move into cities. 
Today, one in two people on the planet live in a city. And the world's cities are growing at an exceptional rate – 4 people moved to cities in the time it took you to read this sentence. 93% of the urbanization occurs in poor or developing countries, and nearly 40% of the world's urban expansion is growing slums. Projections show that another 2.5 billion people will move to urban centres by 2050. 
The 2014 report of “World Urbanization Prospects” by UN DESA’s Population Division notes that the largest urban growth will take place in India, China and Nigeria.
“Managing urban areas has become one of the most important development challenges of the 21st century. Our success or failure in building sustainable cities will be a major factor in the success of the post-2015 UN development agenda,” said John Wilmoth, Director of UN DESA’s Population Division.
Thousands of kilometres of pipes make up each city’s water infrastructure. Many antiquated systems waste more freshwater than they deliver. In many fast-growing cities (small and medium-sized cities with populations of less than 500,000), wastewater infrastructure is non-existent, inadequate or outdated.
share:

Water is industry
 
More water is used to manufacture
a car than to fill a swimming pool.
Every manufactured product requires water. Some industries are more water-intense than others. 10 litres of water are used to make one sheet of paper. 91 litres are used to make 500 grams of plastic. 
Industrialization can drive development by increasing productivity, jobs and income. It can provide opportunities for gender equality and youth employment. However, industry’s priority is to maximize production rather than water efficiency and conservation.
Global water demand for manufacturing is expected to increase by 400% from 2000 to 2050, which is much larger than other sectors. The main increases will be in emerging economies and developing countries. Many large corporations have made considerable progress in evaluating and reducing their water use and that of their supply chains. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are faced with similar water challenges on a smaller scale.
The business case for water efficiency frequently requires a financial trade-off. Investment in efficient water treatment technology or cooling processes may have longer payback periods than the immediate returns of alternative short-term investment in production. 
Technology and smart planning reduce the use of water, and can improve the quality of wastewater. Some progressive textile manufacturers have introduced technology that ensures the water coming out of the mill is as clean or cleaner than the water coming in from the town's drinking water. Large beverage companies are also improving their water use efficiency and have over the past 10 year substantially reduced the water used in their manufacturing plants. 
share:

Water is energy
 
Water and energy are inseparable
friends.
Water and energy are natural partners. Water is required to generate energy. Energy is required to deliver water. 
Today over 80% of power generation is by thermal electricity. Water is heated to create steam to drive electrical generators. Billions of gallons of water are also needed for cooling. This requires limiting construction and use of the least efficient coal-fired power plants. Worldwide hydropower accounts for 16% of global electricity production  - an expected 3700 major dams may more than double the total electricity capacity of hydropower within the next two decades.
New energy production should use widely adopting dry-cooling or highly efficient closed-loop cooling technologies. Using alternative water sources, such as sea or wastewater, offers a great potential for reducing the pressures on freshwater resources.
Renewable energy comes from resources which are naturally replenished such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, waves and geothermal heat. These do not require large quantities of fresh water. Yet at today’s rate of adoption, renewable energy will remain marginal at the global scale. 
share:

Water is food
To produce two steaks you need 
 
15 000 liters of water.
Each American uses 7,500 litres of water per day—mostly for food. One litre of water is needed to irrigate one calorie food. Inefficient water use can mean 100 litres are used to produce one calorie. Irrigation takes up to 90% of water withdrawn in some developing countries. Globally, agriculture is the largest user of water, accounting for 70% of total withdrawal.
By 2050, agriculture will need to produce 60% more food globally, and 100% more in developing countries. 
Economic growth and individual wealth are shifting diets from predominantly starch-based to meat and dairy, which require more water. Producing 1 kilo rice, for example, requires about 3,500 litres of water, while 1 kilo of beef some 15,000 litres. This shift in diet is the greatest to impact on water consumption over the past 30 years, and is likely to continue well into the middle of the twenty-first century. 
The current growth rates of agricultural demands on the world’s freshwater resources are unsustainable. Inefficient use of water for crop production depletes aquifers, reduces river flows, degrades wildlife habitats, and has caused salinization of 20% of the global irrigated land area. To increase efficiency in the use of water, agriculture can reduce water losses and, most importantly, increase crop productivity with respect to water.
With increased intensive agriculture, water pollution may worsen. Experience from high income countries shows that a combination of incentives, including more stringent regulation, enforcement and well-targeted subsidies, can help reduce water pollution.
share:

Water is equality
Every day women spend 200 million 
 
hours carrying water.
In developing nations the responsibility for collecting water every day falls disproportionately on women and girls. On average women in these regions spend 25 percent of their day collecting water for their families. This is time not spent working at an income-generating job, caring for family or attending school. Investments in water and sanitation show substantial economic gains. Every dollar invested shows a return between US$5 and US$28. 
Climate change negatively impacts fresh water sources. Current projections show that freshwater-related risks rise significantly with increasing greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating competition for water among all uses and users, affecting regional water, energy and food securities. Combined with increased demands for water, this will create huge challenges for water resources management.
Natural hazards are inevitable but much can be done to reduce the high number of death and destruction tolls. Ill-advised human activity can both create and accelerate the impact of water-related disasters. These water threats have been increasing with climate change and human activities, in the North and South of our planet, from East to West. But, with preparedness and planning, fatalities and destruction can be decreased. The global community has committed itself to the principles of coherent disaster prevention and response. The need is now for concrete and significant changes to make this happen.


22 March

World Water Day 2015

Water and Sustainable development

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Local Weather Report and Forecast For: Kakinada Dated :Mar 16, 2015

March 16, 2015, 5:57 pm
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Local Weather Report and Forecast For: Kakinada    Dated :Mar 16, 2015
Kakinada
Past 24 Hours Weather Data
Maximum Temp(oC)33.8
Departure from Normal(oC)-1
Minimum Temp (oC)22.8
Departure from Normal(oC)0
24 Hours Rainfall (mm)NIL
Todays Sunset (IST)18:11
Tommorows Sunrise (IST)06:08
Moonset (IST)14:07
Moonrise (IST)02:22
Today's Forecast:SKY CONDITION WOULD BE PARTLY CLOUDY. MAXIMUM AND MINIMUM TEMPERATURES WOULD BE AROUND 34 AND 22 DEG CELSIUS RESPECTIVELY.
Date Temperature ( o C ) Weather Forecast
Minimum Maximum
17-Mar 22.0 34.0 Partly cloudy sky
18-Mar 22.0 34.0 Partly cloudy sky
19-Mar 23.0 34.0 Partly cloudy sky
20-Mar 23.0 35.0 Partly cloudy sky with Thundery development
21-Mar 23.0 35.0 Partly cloudy sky with Thundery development
22-Mar 23.0 35.0 Partly cloudy sky with Thundery development





Actual
Average
Record
Temperature

Mean Temperature
28 °C
-

Max Temperature
33 °C
-
- ()
Min Temperature
22 °C
-
- ()
Cooling Degree Days
18


Growing Degree Days
32 (Base 50)


Moisture

Dew Point
23 °C


Average Humidity
71


Maximum Humidity
89


Minimum Humidity
48


Precipitation

Precipitation
0.0 mm
-
- ()
Sea Level Pressure

Sea Level Pressure
1015.12 hPa


Wind

Wind Speed
1 km/h ()


Max Wind Speed
6 km/h


Max Gust Speed
-


Visibility
7.0 kilometers


Events
 



T = Trace of Precipitation, MM = Missing Value
Source: Averaged Metar Reports

Daily Weather History Graph

Daily Weather History Graph





Monthly Weather History Graph

Monthly Weather History Graph



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ENVIRONMENT RELATED TOPICS AND LINK

March 17, 2015, 7:38 am
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List of environmental issues

 This is an alphabetical list of environmental issues, harmful aspects of human activity on the biophysical environment. As such, they relate to the anthropogenic effects on the natural environment, which are loosely divided into causes, effects and mitigation, noting that effects are interconnected and can cause new effects.


 Effects

Mitigation

Ecosystems— Anoxic waters• Biodiversity• Biosecurity• Coral bleaching• Edge effect• Habitat destruction• Habitat fragmentation• In-situ leach
Fishing— Blast fishing• Bottom trawling• By-catch• Cetacean bycatch• Gillnetting• Illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing• Environmental effects of fishing• Marine pollution• Overfishing• Whaling
Forests— Clearcutting• Deforestation• Illegal logging
Natural resources— Resource depletion• Exploitation of natural resources
Species— Endangered species• Genetic diversity• Habitat destruction• Holocene extinction• Invasive species• Poaching• Pollinator decline• Species extinction• Threshold host density• Wildlife trade• Wildlife disease
Energy conservation• Efficient energy use•
Renewable energy• Renewable energy commercialization•



Air pollution— Environmental impact of the coal industry• Environmental impact of hydraulic fracturing• Indoor air quality• Smog• Tropospheric ozone• Volatile organic compoundAtmospheric particulate matterCFC• Biological effects of UV exposure
Light pollution• Visual pollution•
Noise pollution•
Soil pollution— Alkali soil•Brownfield• Residual Sodium Carbonate Index• Soil conservation• Soil erosion• Soil contamination• Soil salination• Superfund• Superfund sites
Space debris• Interplanetary contamination * Ozone depletion
Water pollution— Acid rain•Agricultural runoff•Algal bloom• Environmental impact of the coal industry• Eutrophication• Environmental impact of hydraulic fracturing• Eutrophication• Fish kill•Groundwater contamination• Groundwater recharge• Marine debris• Marine pollution•Mercury in fish• Microplastics• Ocean acidification• Ocean dumping• ocean pollution•Oil spills• Soda lake•Ship pollution• Thermal pollution• Urban runoff• Wastewater
Consumerism— Consumer capitalism• Planned obsolescence• Over-consumption
Fishing— Blast fishing• Bottom trawling• Cyanide fishing• Ghost nets• Illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing• Overfishing• Shark finning• Whaling
Logging— Clearcutting• Deforestation• Illegal logging
Mining— Acid mine drainage• Environmental impact of hydraulic fracturing• Mountaintop removal mining• Slurry impoundments
Water (depletion)— Anoxic waters• Aral Sea• California Water Wars• Dead Sea• Lake Chad• Water scarcity




With best regards,
(2015)
Dr. AMAR NATH GIRI
EHSQ , NFCL
M.Sc. -Environmental Science,Ph.D -Environmental Science law& DIPLOMA AS - P.G.D.E.P.L,CES, DCA,
EX IIM LUCKNOW FELLOW, EX RESEARCH SCIENTIST
IGIDR-MUMBAI 
9912511918
amarnathgiri@nagarjunagroup.com
http://www.nagarjunagroup.com
http://www.nagarjunafertilizers.com 
EHSQ BLOG : http://dramarnathgiri.blogspot.in/?view=magazine
http://dramarnathgiri.blogspot.in/2013/10/curriculum-vitae-of-dr-amar-nath-giri.html?q=BIO+DATA
http://dramarnathgiri.blogspot.in/2012/05/nagarjuna-management-services.html
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Search

Lists of environmental topics

March 17, 2015, 7:50 am
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Category:Lists of environmental topics

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The main article for this category is Lists of environmental topics.

Subcategories

This category has the following 7 subcategories, out of 7 total.

C► Climate change-related lists‎ (17 P)

F►Forestry-related lists‎ (2 C, 13 P)

L►Lists of biota by conservation status‎ (6 C, 5 P)

P►Pollution-related lists‎ (2 C, 10 P)

R► Lists of Ramsar sites‎ (19 P)

S► Sustainability lists‎ (7 P)

U►United States environment-related lists‎ (3 C, 27 P)

Pages in category "Lists of environmental topics"

The following 47 pages are in this category, out of 47 total. This list may not reflect recent changes (learn more).

 Outline of environmentalism

BList of environmental books

DList of environmental degrees

EList of countries by ecological footprint

GOutline of green politics

HList of environmental health hazards

IList of international environmental agreements

JList of environmental journals

LList of anti-nuclear advocates in Germany

MList of ministers of the environment

NLists of nuclear disasters and radioactive incidents

OList of environmental organisations topics

PList of environmental periodicals

RRachel Carson Prize (environmentalist award)

SList of songs about the environment



List of environmental organisations topics


See also

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    Environment, Biodiversity Material for UPSC Civil Services Main Exam

    March 17, 2015, 8:10 am
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    They are:
    • Conservation
    • Environmental Pollution and Degradation
    • Environmental Impact Assessment
    • Disaster and Disaster Management
    Materials For Above Topics:

    I. Conservation

    1. Biodiversity Conservation 
    2. Conservation of other Natural Resources 
    3. Conservation of Soil and Land 
    4. Water and Energy Conservation 
    5. Water Conservation at Different Levels 
    6. Energy Conservation 

    II. Environmental Pollution and Degradation

    1. Environmental Pollution 
    2. Pollution – Very Basic
    3. Environment and Health
    4. National Environmental Issues
    5. Global Environmental Issues 
    6. Environmental Pollution – Technical

    III. Environmental Impact Assessment

    1. Environmental Legislation 
    2. Environmental Impact assessment 
    3. Environmental Related Institutions and Organisations

    IV. Disaster and Disaster Management

    1. Disasters and their Management 
    2. Yojana on Disaster Management.
    3.  Disaster Management Report (read very selectively)
    These materials are sufficient for preparing of static part of the environment related topics given in the syllabus.
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    Local Weather Report and Forecast For: Kakinada Dated :Mar 17, 2015

    March 17, 2015, 5:22 pm
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    Local Weather Report and Forecast For: Kakinada    Dated :Mar 17, 2015
    Kakinada
    Past 24 Hours Weather Data
    Maximum Temp(oC)33.9
    Departure from Normal(oC)-1
    Minimum Temp (oC)22.0
    Departure from Normal(oC)-2
    24 Hours Rainfall (mm)NIL
    Todays Sunset (IST)18:11
    Tommorows Sunrise (IST)06:07
    Moonset (IST)15:08
    Moonrise (IST)03:15
    Today's Forecast:Sky condition would be partly cloudy. Maximum and minimum temperatures would be around 34 & 22 degrees celsius respectively.
    Date Temperature ( o C ) Weather Forecast
    Minimum Maximum
    18-Mar 22.0 34.0 Partly cloudy sky
    19-Mar 22.0 34.0 Partly cloudy sky
    20-Mar 23.0 34.0 Partly cloudy sky
    21-Mar 23.0 35.0 Partly cloudy sky with Thundery development
    22-Mar 23.0 35.0 Partly cloudy sky with Thundery development
    23-Mar 23.0 35.0 Partly cloudy sky with Thundery development


     ActualAverage Record
    Temperature 
    Mean Temperature28 °C -  
    Max Temperature33 °C - - ()
    Min Temperature22 °C - - ()
    Cooling Degree Days17  
    Growing Degree Days32 (Base 50)  
    Moisture 
    Dew Point23 °C  
    Average Humidity72  
    Maximum Humidity92  
    Minimum Humidity52  
    Precipitation 
    Precipitation0.0 mm - - ()
    Sea Level Pressure 
    Sea Level Pressure1013.38 hPa  
    Wind 
    Wind Speed1 km/h ()  
    Max Wind Speed6 km/h  
    Max Gust Speed -   
    Visibility7.0 kilometers  
    Events    
    T = Trace of Precipitation, MM = Missing ValueSource: Averaged Metar Reports

    Daily Weather History Graph

    Daily Weather History Graph

    TILL 17 MARCH MONTHLY WEATHER REPORT

    		MaxAvgMinSum
    Temperature 
    Max Temperature36 °C33 °C24 °C
    Mean Temperature30 °C28 °C27 °C
    Min Temperature24 °C22 °C19 °C
    Degree Days 
    Heating Degree Days (base 65)0000
    Cooling Degree Days (base 65)201716297
    Growing Degree Days (base 50)353230549
    Dew Point 
    Dew Point25 °C22 °C15 °C
    Precipitation 
    Precipitation0.0 mm0.0 mm0.0 mm0.00 mm
    Snowdepth - - - -
    Wind 
    Wind7 km/h0 km/h0 km/h
    Gust Wind - - -
    Sea Level Pressure 
    Sea Level Pressure1017 hPa1014 hPa1009 hPa

    Monthly Weather History Graph

    Monthly Weather History Graph




    ↧

    Item # 6402, Monolec® R & O Compressor / Turbine Oil 6402

    March 18, 2015, 7:35 am
    $
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    Item # 6402, Monolec® R & O Compressor / Turbine Oil 6402

    Versatile Oil Provides Long-Term Anti-Wear Protection

    Monolec® R & O Compressor / Turbine Oil is a versatile, heavy-duty oil designed to prolong equipment life by combating the effects of high temperatures, water, contaminants and heavy loads that accelerate wear. Available in seven different viscosity grades, it is ideally suited for use in all types of air compressors and oil circulating systems.

    This long-lasting, nonfoaming, turbine-quality oil provides peace of mind by ensuring that your equipment works when it is needed, whether you run it intermittently or continuously. With its superior resistance to heat, oxidation and moisture, Monolec R & O Compressor / Turbine Oil significantly outperforms ordinary commercial air compressor and turbine oils. It contains Monolec, LE’s exclusive wear-reducing additive, as well as highly effective rust and oxidation inhibitors.

    Benefits and Recommendations

    Beneficial Qualities

    		Provides Long-Lasting Protection
  • Provides long oil service life under high heat conditions
  • Extends oil drains by four to six timesvs. ordinary oils
  • Reduces maintenance costs
  • Makes it easier to trace leaks due to red color
  • Prolongs equipment life

    Reduces Wear, Operating Temps & Energy Use
  • Possesses exceptional film strength,protecting moving parts from wear and scuffing
  • Minimizes viscosity changes as temps vary, resulting in better separation of metal surfaces
  • Maintains uniform lubricant layer due to highly effective foam suppressant that breaks up air bubbles as they form
  • Eliminates overheating and automatic shutdowns
  • Reduces frictional drag, lowering power consumption

    Protects Against Water, Rust & Corrosion
  • Separates rapidly from water, allowing excess water to accumulate for easy drain-off
  • Provide exceptional resistance to moisture, particularly effective duringperiods of shutdown when cooling may cause condensation
  • Protects metal surfaces against rust and corrosion, even in sensitive silver, copper and copper-lead bearings

    Minimizes Carbon, Varnish & Sludge
  • Inhibits carbon formation and deposits
  • Reduces acids and insoluble products caused by oil oxidation
  • Prevents sludging during service
  • Keeps systems clean and operating smoothly

    • Proprietary Additives

    		LE’s proprietary additivesare used exclusively inLE lubricants. Monolec®R & O Compressor / TurbineOil contains Monolec.

    Monolec® wear-reducing additive creates a single molecular lubricating film on metal surfaces, vastly increasing oilfilm strength without affecting clearances. An invaluable component in LE’s engine oils, industrial oils and many of its other lubricants, Monolec allowsopposing surfaces to slide by one another, greatly reducing friction, heat and wear.

    Performance Requirements Met or Exceeded

    • AGMA 9005-D94
    • Baker Perkins 69-D (6401)
    • Cincinnati Machine [P-68 (6401)] [P-69 (6403)] [P-70 (6402)]
    • Diamond Power Soot Blowers (6401)
    • General Mills “B” Lubricants
    • USDA H2
    • Xerox 36-0028 (6401)

    Typical Applications

    • Air compressors
    • Air line oilers
    • Bearings
    • Blowers
    • Circulating & splash systems
    • Gearboxes
    • Industrial turbines
    • Vacuum pumps

    Available Container Size

    		5 gal
    55 gal
    275 gal disposable tank
    550 gal returnable tank

    Reliability Solution Products

    		Reliability Solution Products

    Customer Testimonials

    		6402 Continental Machining Co
    6402 Country Pure Foods
    6402 King Soopers Meat Plant
    6402 Union Sanitary District


    Physical Characteristics - Typical

    Color

    		Red

    ISO VG / SAE Grade

    		46 / --

    AGMA Grade

    		--


    Performance Test Results

    Gravity, ºAPI ASTM D1298

    		31.1

    Viscosity @ 100°C, cSt, ASTM D445

    		6.72

    Viscosity @ 40°C, cSt, ASTM D445

    		45.23

    Viscosity Index ASTM D2270

    		95

    Flash Point °C(°F), (COC), ASTM D92

    		216 (420)

    Pour Point °C(°F), ASTM D97

    		-24 (-11)

    Rust Test 4 hrs @ 60ºC (140ºF), Sea H2O, ASTM D665B

    		Pass

    Copper Corrosion 3 hrs @ 100ºC, ASTM D130

    		1b

    Oxidation by RPVOT @ 150ºC, minutes, ASTM D2272

    		700




























    http://products.lelubricants.com/item/viscosity-46/monolec-r-o-compressor-turbine-oil-6401-6407/6402?&bc=100|1155|1156x
    ↧

    Local Weather Report and Forecast For: Kakinada Dated :Mar 18, 2015

    March 18, 2015, 5:59 pm
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    Local Weather Report and Forecast For: Kakinada    Dated :Mar 18, 2015

    		ActualAverage Record
    Temperature
    Mean Temperature29 °C -
    Max Temperature36 °C - - ()
    Min Temperature22 °C - - ()
    Cooling Degree Days20

    Growing Degree Days34 (Base 50)

    Moisture
    Dew Point22 °C

    Average Humidity65

    Maximum Humidity91

    Minimum Humidity37

    Precipitation
    Precipitation0.0 mm - - ()
    Sea Level Pressure
    Sea Level Pressure1010.88 hPa

    Wind
    Wind Speed1 km/h ()

    Max Wind Speed6 km/h

    Max Gust Speed-

    Visibility7.0 kilometers

    Events 

    T = Trace of Precipitation, MM = Missing ValueSource: Averaged Metar Reports

    Daily Weather History Graph

    Daily Weather History Graph 
     
    Hourly Weather History & Observations




    Time (IST)Temp.Dew PointHumidityPressureVisibilityWind DirWind SpeedGust SpeedPrecipEventsConditions
    2:30 AM24 °C22 °C86%1010 hPa4 kmCalmCalm--
    		Clear
    5:30 AM23 °C22 °C91%1010 hPa4 kmCalmCalm--
    		Scattered Clouds
    8:30 AM26 °C24 °C78%1013 hPa10 kmCalmCalm--
    		Scattered Clouds
    11:30 AM33 °C22 °C43%1012 hPa10 kmSW5.6 km/h /  --
    		Scattered Clouds
    2:30 PM35 °C23 °C40%1010 hPa10 kmSW5.6 km/h /  --
    		Scattered Clouds
    5:30 PM34 °C20 °C37%1009 hPa10 kmCalmCalm--
    		Scattered Clouds
    8:30 PM28 °C23 °C70%1011 hPa4 kmSW5.6 km/h /  --
    		Scattered Clouds
    11:30 PM26 °C23 °C74%1012 hPa4 kmCalmCalm--
    		Scattered Clouds
    Local Weather Report and Forecast For: Kakinada    Dated :Mar 18, 2015
    Kakinada
    Past 24 Hours Weather Data
    Maximum Temp(oC)36.0
    Departure from Normal(oC)1
    Minimum Temp (oC)22.8
    Departure from Normal(oC)-1
    24 Hours Rainfall (mm)NIL
    Todays Sunset (IST)18:12
    Tommorows Sunrise (IST)06:07
    Moonset (IST)16:10
    Moonrise (IST)04:58
    Today's Forecast:Sky condition would be partly cloudy. Maximum and minimum temperatures would be around 36 & 23 degrees celsius respectively.
    Date Temperature ( o C ) Weather Forecast
    Minimum Maximum
    19-Mar 24.0 36.0 Partly cloudy sky
    20-Mar 24.0 36.0 Partly cloudy sky
    21-Mar 24.0 36.0 Partly cloudy sky
    22-Mar 24.0 36.0 Partly cloudy sky
    23-Mar 24.0 36.0 Partly cloudy sky
    24-Mar 24.0 36.0 Partly cloudy sky








    Monthly average till 18 march

    Max
    Avg
    Min
    Sum
    Temperature

    Max Temperature
    36 °C
    33 °C
    24 °C
    Mean Temperature
    30 °C
    28 °C
    24 °C
    Min Temperature
    24 °C
    22 °C
    19 °C
    Degree Days

    Heating Degree Days (base 65)
    0
    0
    0
    0
    Cooling Degree Days (base 65)
    20
    17
    11
    328
    Growing Degree Days (base 50)
    35
    32
    26
    609
    Dew Point

    Dew Point
    25 °C
    22 °C
    15 °C
    Precipitation

    Precipitation
    0.0 mm
    0.0 mm
    0.0 mm
    0.00 mm
    Snowdepth
    -
    -
    -
    -
    Wind

    Wind
    7 km/h
    1 km/h
    0 km/h
    Gust Wind
    -
    -
    -
    Sea Level Pressure

    Sea Level Pressure
    1017 hPa
    1014 hPa
    1009 hPa







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