 What does 'environmentally friendly' mean?
'Environmentally friendly' is a term often used to refer to a product that is considered to inflict minimal harm on the environment. However, without justification this term is meaningless and can often be used in error.- What is the difference between recycling, recyclable and recycled?
Recycling is the act of taking a used product and processing it into something that can be used again. Many communities now have recycling programmes that collect selected recyclable items (those items that have the potential to be recycled). Although most products have the potential to be recycled not all are. Recycling facilities are often marked with the recyclable symbol below. Recycled products are those, which are made from some recycled fibres or materials that were once considered waste.
- What does 'biodegradable' mean?
Biodegradable refers to the ability for natural (plant, animal or natural mineral-based) products to break down into their simpler components, safely and relatively quickly, with the aid of micro-organisms and under natural conditions. However, as with recycled products, the environmental benefit of these products will not be felt unless they are disposed of in the correct manner. The natural conditions required for biodegredation do not exist in modern landfills.
- What is a 'carbon footprint'?
A carbon footprint is a measure of the impact on the environment in terms of the amount of greenhouse gases produced, measured in units of carbon dioxide.
- What does 'sustainability' mean?
Sustainability is the practice of using resources in an efficient and responsible manner, to protect the environment, allow continued economic growth and development of social equity. It is a way of giving consideration to future generations.
- What does carbon offsetting mean?
Carbon offsetting allows organisations or individuals to indirectly reduce their carbon footprint through the purchase of carbon credits associated with emissions reduction projects (such as energy efficiency and renewable power) that have occurred elsewhere, typically in developing countries. There are many considerations that need to be taken into account to ensure that the offset projects that are being developed will result in an overall reduction in carbon emissions. The idea of additionality is central to this, as it is the term used to describe carbon offset emissions reductions as those that occur in addition to business as usual.
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Last Updated on Monday, 09 May 2011 12:59 |
Environment Information 
