#greenhouse industry

[vintagehomecollection]

The design options displayed in this kitchen include a magnificent industrial stove which surprisingly doesn't seem out of place in a room whose robin's-egg blue and eggshell white coloring give the whole space a delicate, feathery weightlessness. Observe how naturally the size and bulk of a stainless-steel commercial stove fits right in, suggesting that the sheer bulk of large appliances need not limit the design concepts used.

Beyond The Kitchen: A Dreamer’s Guide, 1985

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from Grist:

Recent data analysis conducted by a human rights advocacy organization found that nearly a dozen international finance institutions directed over $3 billion to animal agriculture in 2023. The majority of those funds — upwards of $2.27 billion — came from development banks and went towards projects that support factory farming, a practice that contributes to greenhouse gas emissions as well as biodiversity loss. 

The researchers behind the analysis are calling on the development banks — which include the International Finance Corporation, or IFC, part of the World Bank — to scrutinize the climate and environmental impacts of the projects they fund, especially in light of the World Bank’s climate pledges.

The analysis comes from the International Accountability Project, which reviewed disclosure documents from 15 development banks and the Green Climate Fund, established in 2010 at COP16 to support climate action in developing countries. Researchers found that 10 of those development banks, as well as the Green Climate Fund, financed projects directly supporting animal agriculture. The data serves as the basis for a new white paper from Stop Financing Factory Farming, or S3F, a coalition of advocacy groups that seeks to block development banks from funding agribusiness, released last month. 

The International Accountability Project, which advocates for human and environmental rights, hopes that its findings will pressure international financial institutions like the World Bank to see the contradiction in financing industrial animal agriculture projects while also promising to help reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions.

Agriculture accounts for a significant portion of global greenhouse gas emissions, so much so that research has suggested limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit) is not possible without changing how we grow food and what we eat. Within the agricultural sector, livestock production is the main source of greenhouse emissions — as ruminants like cows and sheep release methane into the atmosphere whenever they burp. 

[notwiselybuttoowell]

Former officials in the UN’s farming wing have said they were censored, sabotaged, undermined and victimised for more than a decade after they wrote about the hugely damaging contribution of methane emissions from livestock to global heating.

Team members at the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) tasked with estimating cattle’s contribution to soaring temperatures said that pressure from farm-friendly funding states was felt throughout the FAO’s Rome headquarters and coincided with attempts by FAO leadership to muzzle their work.

The allegations date back to the years after 2006, when some of the officials who spoke exclusively to the Guardian on condition of anonymity wrote Livestock’s Long Shadow (LLS), a landmark report that pushed farm emissions on to the climate agenda for the first time. LLS included the first tally of the meat and dairy sector’s ecological cost, attributing 18% of global greenhouse gas emissions to livestock, mostly cattle. It shocked an industry that had long seen the FAO as a reliable ally – and spurred an internal clampdown by FAO hierarchy, according to the officials.

“The lobbyists obviously managed to influence things,” one ex-official said. “They had a strong impact on the way things were done at the FAO and there was a lot of censorship. It was always an uphill struggle getting the documents you produced past the office for corporate communications and one had to fend off a good deal of editorial vandalism.”

Serving and former FAO experts said that between 2006 and 2019, management made numerous attempts to suppress investigations into the cow/climate change connection. Top officials rewrote and diluted key passages in another report on the same topic, “buried” another paper critical of big agriculture, excluded critical officials from meetings and summits, and briefed against their work.

"There was substantial pressure internally and there were consequences for permanent staff who worked on this, in terms of their careers. It wasn’t really a healthy environment to work in,” said another ex-official.

Scientists also expressed concern about the way the FAO’s estimate of livestock’s overall contribution to emissions is continuing to fall. The 18% number that was published in 2006 was revised downwards to 14.5% in a follow-up paper, Tackling Climate Change Emissions in 2013. It is currently being assessed at about 11.2% based on a new “Gleam 3.0” model.

But many scientists plot farm emissions on a very different trajectory. One recent study concluded that greenhouse gas emissions from animal products made up 20% of the global total and a 2021 study found that the figure should be between 16.5% and 28.1%.

[wachinyeya]

[aisling-saoirse]

Geothermal heated greenhouse and world famous tomato based restaurant Friðheimar - Reykholt, Iceland

[indizombie]

Tobacco already kills eight million people every year, and, irrespective of any impact of newer products like e-cigarettes, the huge global burden of tobacco mortality and morbidity can be expected to remain for decades to come. Tobacco growing, manufacturing, distribution, and use, all contribute to global warming through the emission of greenhouse gases. In fact, the tobacco product life cycle releases an estimated 80 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent every single year. The tobacco industry’s emissions are larger than those for entire countries, including Denmark, Croatia and Afghanistan, and are comparable to emissions from the oil, fast fashion and meat industries.

‘Plastics, the Environment and the Tobacco Industry’, Tobacco Tactics

[toyastales]

The Best of Both Worlds

A blend of greenhouse design elements mixed with industrial architecture is a winning combination.

[commiepinkofag]

[Greenhouse 100 Polluters Index, 2023 Report/Based on 2021 Data]

#6 US Military/Government

[feckcops]

Hot air: five climate myths pushed by the US beef industry

“While fossil fuel consumption has done the most to put us on our dangerous path to climate catastrophe, a widely cited 2020 study in the journal Science argued that we can no longer avoid the worst of the climate crisis by cutting fossil fuels alone. Staying below the average global temperature rise of 2C – a threshold that scientists say will lead to systems collapse, mass extinctions, fatal heat waves, drought and famine, water shortages and flooded cities – will require ‘rapid and ambitious’ changes to food systems.

“The single most impactful food-related change we can make, according to their findings, is not increasing yields, ramping up agricultural efficiency or cutting food waste, though those approaches all would help. It’s adopting a plant-rich diet.

“While building out energy infrastructure can take years, changing our diet is something we can work toward today.”

[minglana]

autocad my beloathed (i will be saying this a lot more this coming semester)

[always-a-slut-4-ghouls]

I think someone put the brain of a mouse or maybe a squirrel inside my head at some point because all winter I was like “I crave nuts and seeds” and now that it’s getting warmer and brighter out my brain keeps going “it’s fruit time”

Like, modern transportation has made it possible to move many fruits all over the world (in theory) all the time! But the primal early plesiadapiform part of my brain is like “you must eat what is available this season”

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from Canary Media:

The world’s biggest decarbonization challenge comes not from cars, planes, or power plants, but from the highly polluting heavy industries at the heart of modern society.

New data from the Rhodium Group shows that, worldwide, no sector emits more planet-warming carbon dioxide than industry. That fact is not projected to change in the decades to come.

Cement, steel, petrochemicals, and various other mass-produced industrial metals and materials, from aluminum to glass, are ubiquitous. 

They also make up an enormous and rising share of the world’s carbon dioxide emissions.

In 2022, the industrial sector accounted for 31 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. By 2050, Rhodium forecasts that the industrial sector could emit as much CO2 equivalent as the power, transportation, and building sectors combined.

The biggest driver of industrial emissions is oil and gas production. The manufacturing of cement and other non-metallic minerals is the next-biggest contributor, followed by steel and iron production.

Emissions from oil and gas production mostly stem from the enormous amount of ​“fugitive” methane that escapes into the atmosphere: 80 percent of the sector’s emissions take this form.

In cement production, there are two key sources of emissions: high-heat, gas-fired kilns and the limestone used as an ingredient in Portland cement, which releases CO2 when heated up. Steelmaking emissions mainly come from the use of coal-fired blast furnaces to make iron.

Many of these industrial sectors have historically been described as ​“hard-to-decarbonize,” but in recent years experts have pushed back on that label as new pathways to cleaning up heavy industry have emerged or been proven out.

Rhodium, for its part, sees the oil and gas industry’s fugitive methane problem as solvable thanks to ​“cost-effective mitigation solutions that exist today,” the report notes. Plus, if global fossil-fuel consumption falls due to the rise of clean energy, heat pumps, and EVs, those emissions will follow suit.

The report also sees a solid pathway for the steelmaking sector to become less carbon-intensive by increasing both the use of electric arc furnaces, which use electricity to recycle scrap steel, as well as an alternative, coal-free ironmaking process called direct reduction, which can be fueled by fossil gas or hydrogen.

The research firm is less optimistic about cement emissions in the near term, citing a lack of mature technologies. Major cement producers and startups are working on different techniques to chip away at emissions, and companies are also devising ways to produce low-carbon Portland cement, but the industry is still far from the wholesale transformation needed to radically reduce emissions.

[notwiselybuttoowell]

Critics point out that the production of LNG, when drilling, production and burning are considered, is a major driver of the climate crisis. Studies have shown that while gas emits less carbon dioxide than coal, it often also involves the leaking of large quantities of methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

“This is a carbon mega bomb,” said Jeremy Symons, a former Environmental Protection Agency official, of CP2, which has requested a permit to operate until 2050, a point when Biden aims for the US to have zeroed out its emissions. “The scale of the project is almost unfathomable and it locks us into a fossil fuel dependency for the next 30 years. If all we do is shift from coal to gas, we are cooked.”

According to calculations by Symons, who runs his own consultancy, the CP2 project would cause 197m tons of planet-heating gases each year once fully operational, including emissions from the production of the gas and its eventual burning overseas, which isn’t counted in the US’s own emissions tally.

This scale of emissions is 20 times greater than the controversial Willow oil project in Alaska, which was approved by the Biden administration despite a huge outcry from Democrats, tribes and climate campaigners earlier this year.

Should several dozen other proposed gas-export facilities along the Gulf of Mexico also be built, then the overall emissions toll would be gargantuan, according to figures Symons shared with the Guardian. If all planned terminals go ahead, it would result in an extra 3.2bn tons of greenhouse gases each year, he found, close to the annual emissions of the entire European Union and severely imperiling hopes of avoiding catastrophic global heating.

“It’s an unbelievable amount of pollution and it would spell game over for a livable planet as we’ve known it,” said Symons. “We would double LNG production just with the gas terminals that have been proposed, meaning we are just shifting emissions overseas even as we act on climate here in the US. We’ve left the back door wide open, and profit-seeking oil-gas companies are taking full advantage.”

The CP2 project is awaiting permission from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (Ferc), which regulates pipelines, as well as the US Department of Energy. Several Democratic lawmakers have criticized Ferc, and the Biden administration, for repeatedly approving huge gas projects despite concerns over damage to the climate as well as to the air and water of nearby communities, already overburdened by a tangle of oil and gas infrastructure along the Gulf coast.

Ferc has been “captured by the fossil fuel industry”, complained the US senator Jeff Merkley, an Oregon Democrat, after the agency approved a separate gas plant in the Pacific north-west last week. “Ferc may be an obscure federal agency to most people, but there are important decisions on the horizon at Ferc that will determine whether the world meets its climate goals,” he said. “With projects such as the Calcasieu Pass 2 LNG export terminal on the horizon, right now, the signs aren’t good.”

[plethoraworldatlas]

When it comes to taking the blame for climate change, the energy sector absorbs most of the heat. But more and more, the public is learning about animal agriculture’s substantial role. The raising of animals for slaughter produces 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, approaching half of the energy sector’s 34%. One species in particular looms large in this picture: Around 10% of all global greenhouse gas emissions are produced by the cattle industry.

As awareness grows around the eco-impact of raising cows for meat, the beef industry has been working hard to maintain public confidence. At the center of its efforts is a push to sell consumers on the idea of “climate friendly” or “low-carbon” beef. Tyson’s new Brazen Beef is advertised as a “climate smart” innovation; while the banner of “regenerative beef” — claimed to actually benefit the land — has been taken up by McDonald’s and Walmart.

But what do these buzzwords actually mean? Can beef ever be “climate friendly”?

Tyson Foods is one of the largest meat processing companies in the world. In recent years, it has found itself under pressure to cut eco-impacts and improve its sustainability efforts. It has responded with the introduction of Brazen Beef, which uses cattle “enrolled in Tyson Foods’ Climate-Smart Beef Program for emission reduction from pasture to production,” according to the product’s website. The baseline and metrics needed to measure this 10% reduction, however, is far from clear. “There’s no way that the math even works out,” says Jan Dutkiewicz, a political economist who studies the agriculture industry.

...

In an investigation for Vox, Kenny Torrella reached a similar conclusion. “Tyson’s climate-friendly beef website is full of earnest marketing phrases like this one: ‘If we’re showing up for the climate, then we’ve got to show our work.’ Yet that ‘work’ is nowhere to be found,” he noted.

Tyson told the Progressive Grocer that the company is “trying to be upbeat and different” with a campaign that speaks definitively to younger millennial and Gen Z consumers, the market sector most concerned with the impacts of climate change. The Brazen Beef website is packed with imagery of young adults being active, social and happy.

Launching products like Brazen Beef, says Dutkiewicz, is largely about landing some good press — without much fear of being called to account. “The average food consumer doesn’t spend time studying food,” he says.

...

Land use is also already a major concern when it comes to beef production, making the scalability of regenerative agriculture difficult to conceive. Cattle farming occupies 41% of all land in the U.S., even though 99% of livestock are raised on factory farms. Over 40 million cattle and calves are slaughtered for food annually in the U.S. Transitioning that number of cows to eating grass, says Carter, would require 270% more land. Making regenerative beef viable as a climate-friendly solution would also require significant reduction in overall beef consumption. Decreased consumption, however, rarely appears in the discourse around regenerative agriculture.

...

Re-wilding is the practice of restoring natural habitats ravaged by animal farming by reintroducing native flora and fauna, including native ruminants such as bison. “Cattle can be considered an invasive species,” says senior food campaigner for the Center for Biological Diversity, Jennifer Molidor. Where regenerative ranchers attempt to minimize impacts with rotational patterns and smaller grazing herds, “they fall far short of promoting biodiversity compared to native animals, and more often than not have severe impacts on soil health, water quality and make a monumental contribution to accelerating climate change.”Improving ecosystem integrity is an important part of re-wilding, Molidor explains. It’s also one, she says, “many food producers overlook or misunderstand when attempting to farm in better harmony with the land.” Re-wilding “can heal soil that has been harmed by agricultural degradation and pollution and restore native habitat and improve wildlife connectivity.” But that process is fundamentally incompatible with the cattle industry in its current size and form. Concludes Molidor, “The more cattle we produce, the more the land suffers.”

[tubetrading]

Common Applications of GI Pipes in Construction and Infrastructure

In the dynamic landscape of construction and infrastructure development, the role of Galvanized Iron (GI) pipes has become increasingly significant.  As Tube Trading Co., a leading GI Pipe Dealer, Distributor, and Supplier in Gujarat, we understand the pivotal role that GI pipes play in various construction applications.  In this blog post, we will explore the common applications of GI pipes and shed light on why they are the preferred choice in the construction and infrastructure sectors.

Understanding GI Pipes

Galvanized Iron pipes are steel pipes that have been coated with a layer of zinc to prevent corrosion.  This process, known as galvanization, not only protects the pipes from rusting but also enhances their longevity.  The combination of durability and cost-effectiveness makes GI pipes a popular choice for a wide range of applications in the construction industry.

Water Supply Systems

One of the primary applications of GI pipes is in water supply systems.  The corrosion-resistant nature of these pipes makes them ideal for transporting potable water over long distances.  As a GI Pipe Dealer in Gujarat, we have witnessed a surge in the demand for these pipes in municipal water supply projects and rural water distribution networks.

Plumbing Installations

GI pipes are widely used in plumbing installations due to their versatility and ease of installation.  Whether it's residential, commercial, or industrial plumbing, GI pipes provide a reliable solution for conveying water and other fluids.  Their strength and resistance to corrosion ensure leak-free plumbing systems, making them a preferred choice for plumbers and contractors.

Irrigation Systems

In agricultural settings, where water distribution is crucial for crop growth, GI pipes find extensive use in irrigation systems.  The zinc coating protects the pipes from the elements, ensuring a longer lifespan even when exposed to varying weather conditions.  As a GI Pipe Distributor in Gujarat, we have supplied pipes for irrigation projects that contribute to sustainable agriculture practices.

Structural Support in Construction

The strength and durability of GI pipes make them suitable for providing structural support in construction projects.  From scaffolding to framework structures, these pipes offer the required strength without compromising on safety.  As a GI Pipe Supplier in Vadodara, we have collaborated with builders and contractors who appreciate the reliability and structural integrity that GI pipes bring to their projects.

Fencing and Handrails

In the realm of infrastructure, GI pipes are frequently used for fencing and handrails.  The corrosion resistance and robustness of these pipes make them an ideal choice for creating secure and long-lasting barriers.  Whether it's for highways, bridges, or industrial facilities, GI pipes contribute to the safety and security of these structures.

Oil and Gas Pipelines

The oil and gas industry relies heavily on robust pipelines to transport resources from extraction sites to processing facilities.  GI pipes, with their corrosion-resistant properties, are employed in these pipelines, ensuring the efficient and safe transport of oil and gas over long distances.  As a trusted GI Pipe Supplier in Gujarat, we have been a part of projects that facilitate the energy infrastructure of the region.

Fire Sprinkler Systems

Fire safety is a critical aspect of any building, and GI pipes play a vital role in fire sprinkler systems.  The corrosion-resistant coating ensures that these pipes remain reliable even when not in constant use.  This makes GI pipes a preferred choice for fire protection systems in residential, commercial, and industrial buildings.

Greenhouse Structures

In the realm of agriculture and horticulture, GI pipes are utilized in the construction of greenhouse structures.  The ability to withstand varying climatic conditions, coupled with their durability, makes GI pipes an excellent choice for creating the framework of greenhouses.  This ensures a conducive environment for plant growth and protection against external elements.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the applications of GI pipes in construction and infrastructure are diverse and crucial for the development of resilient and long-lasting structures.  Tube Trading Co., as a prominent GI Pipe Dealer, Distributor, and Supplier in Gujarat, takes pride in contributing to the growth and sustainability of the region's construction and infrastructure sectors.  Whether it's supplying pipes for water supply, plumbing, irrigation, or structural support, GI pipes continue to be the preferred choice for builders, contractors, and engineers alike.

If you are in need of high-quality GI pipes for your construction projects, look no further than Tube Trading Co.  Our commitment to providing top-notch products and excellent service has made us a trusted partner in the construction and infrastructure industry.  Contact us today for all your GI pipe requirements in Gujarat and Vadodara.

[greenhousechronicles]

Lizard Hotel

Went into the greenhouse and something literally sped right in front of me like a blur. At first I thought it was a small rodent. I thought, yay! Another guest!

I got out my camera and started to search for the little critter, but because he is so speedy, all I caught was this:

It's not Alligator Lizard, but it is a lizard. A different kind of lizard. I think it might be a Western Fence Lizard.

That got me to thinking, maybe the greenhouse is not a Lizard House, so much as a Lizard Hotel. Maybe I shouldn't be as sad about Alligator Lizard leaving, because it was only a hotel visit in the first place. It wasn't meant to be like a condo, or even a rental apartment. Just a hotel.