#solar light tower australia

[earthtrackgroup]

Are you tired of dealing with unreliable worksite lighting that requires constant maintenance?

Our Solar Light Towers from Earthtrack Group are the perfect solution for flexible, reliable, and durable worksite lighting. Designed and constructed in Australia, these solar powered lighting towers are trusted by top Australian mining companies, as well as civil and industrial sites.

With our Solar Light Towers, you can enjoy powerful lighting without the hassle of high maintenance. Made to withstand the harsh conditions of Australia's remote outback, our light towers provide energy-efficient lighting that is perfect for roads, construction sites, carparks, and more. Plus, they offer off-grid solutions to make your site carbon neutral.

Browse our signature range of energy efficient solar light towers today and contact our team at 1300 410 485 to find out how you can make your site more efficient with solar-powered solutions. Don't miss out on this opportunity to upgrade your worksite lighting!

[vizona-australia]

When selecting the best colour temperature for LED floodlighting in sports fields, tennis courts, and other recreational areas, a range of 5000K to 5700K is ideal. This colour temperature replicates daylight, providing bright and clear illumination, which enhances visibility and reduces eye strain for players and spectators alike. 

Read more here: https://www.vizona.com.au/blog/what-is-the-right-colour-temperature-for-sports-field-lighting/

[archupnet]

The Top Sustainable Buildings of 2024: Architectural Marvels Driving a Greener Future In an era where sustainability is more than just a trend, some buildings across the globe have emerged as paragons of green architecture. These structures embody an innovative blend of design, technology, and environmental consciousness, proving that our built environment can co-exist harmoniously with nature. Here’s a look at some of the most sustainable buildings of 2024, each contributing uniquely to a greener world. 1. Powerhouse Brattørkaia, Trondheim, Norway - Location: Trondheim, Norway - Completed: 2019 - Features: Powerhouse Brattørkaia is a stellar example of energy-positive construction. Located in the Norwegian city of Trondheim, this office building produces more energy than it consumes over its entire lifespan, including during the production of building materials, construction, and deconstruction. Equipped with solar panels that generate 485,000 kWh annually, this building actively contributes to the local power grid, setting a high bar for what the future of sustainable architecture can look like. - Design Insight: The building’s unique sloping roof is designed for optimal solar energy capture, while its insulation ensures that energy demand is minimized. The smart systems for temperature regulation and energy monitoring have proven that buildings can be a net positive for the environment. 2. The Edge, Amsterdam, Netherlands - Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands - Completed: 2015 - Features: Widely recognized as one of the "smartest buildings" globally, The Edge has maintained its place as a benchmark for sustainability well into 2024. Awarded a 98.36% BREEAM sustainability score, it is a key example of how technology can drive green architecture forward. - Sustainable Features: The Edge uses LED lighting powered by a network of 28,000 sensors to track movement, light levels, temperature, and humidity. These sensors automatically adjust the building’s environment, cutting energy use by up to 70% compared to traditional office structures. The integration of rainwater harvesting systems also helps minimize water consumption, while solar panels on the roof power a significant portion of the building’s energy needs. 3. Bosco Verticale, Milan, Italy - Location: Milan, Italy - Completed: 2014 - Features: Bosco Verticale, or the "Vertical Forest," is a visionary residential development that integrates nature into urban life. Each of the two towers is covered with over 20,000 trees, shrubs, and flowering plants, providing a total of 50,000 square meters of plant coverage, equivalent to a hectare of forest. - Environmental Impact: The vegetation contributes to air purification, produces oxygen, and creates a natural sound barrier. The building maintains its biodiversity by attracting over 1,600 species of birds and insects. These towers symbolize how greenery can be integrated into urban environments to combat pollution and enhance residents' quality of life. Bosco Verticale remains a beacon for cities worldwide trying to increase biodiversity and combat the urban heat island effect. 4. One Central Park, Sydney, Australia - Location: Sydney, Australia - Completed: 2014 - Features: One Central Park is a mixed-use development characterized by its striking green wall and innovative sustainable design. The building features a vertical garden developed by botanist Patrick Blanc, boasting 250 different plant species across 1,200 square meters of green façade. - Technology Integration: The building also features automated sun-tracking mirrors, which reflect light deep into the residential units to reduce the need for artificial lighting. The inclusion of renewable energy systems, such as a tri-generation power plant and a blackwater recycling plant, has led to a 25% reduction in energy use compared to conventional buildings. 5. Punggol Digital District (PDD), Singapore - Location: Singapore - Scheduled Completion: 2024 - Features: Singapore’s first smart district, Punggol Digital District, is being designed to be a model for urban sustainability in the country. PDD integrates energy-efficient buildings, solar panels, and a centralized district cooling system that lowers energy consumption. - Green Goals: The district aims to achieve net-zero energy, setting a precedent for large-scale urban developments. The public spaces are designed for walkability, with shared green areas fostering community interaction. The buildings are expected to achieve Green Mark Platinum, Singapore’s highest environmental rating, ensuring that the district’s carbon footprint remains minimal. Conclusion The year 2024 has seen a continuation of the trend towards energy-efficient, eco-friendly, and smart architecture. From Norway's Powerhouse Brattørkaia to Singapore's Punggol Digital District, these sustainable buildings demonstrate the potential of blending technology with green principles. They are pioneering the movement towards sustainable living, minimizing the impact of construction on the environment, and offering a blueprint for the future of urban development. These exemplary buildings embody not just advancements in architecture, but a change in mindset—one that views sustainability as an integral part of design, construction, and urban living. As the world continues to battle the climate crisis, such architectural innovations are leading the way towards a more sustainable and harmonious future. https://archup.net/woha-and-patricia-urquiolas-tropical-skyscraper-eco-friendly-and-voluptuous/ Read the full article

[seonewnest]

8 Most Sustainable Buildings Around the World

As climate change grips the planet, the need for sustainable solutions has never been greater. One area experiencing a radical transformation is architecture, with innovative minds crafting “greener buildings” that minimize environmental impact and prioritize renewable energy. These architectural marvels showcase not only cutting-edge technology but also a deep respect for the planet.

Bosco Verticale, Milan, Italy

The Bosco Verticale, or Vertical Forest, stands as a testament to Italy’s commitment to sustainable living. Designed by Stefano Boeri Architects, this pair of residential towers in Milan is adorned with lush greenery, hosting over 20,000 trees and nearly 5,000 shrubs. Not only do these green towers enhance the city’s skyline, but they also act as natural air purifiers, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.

One Central Park, Sydney, Australia

The Edge, Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam takes the lead in smart sustainability with The Edge, a futuristic office building. Designed by PLP Architecture, this energy-efficient marvel incorporates solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and smart lighting controls. The Edge has redefined the workspace, demonstrating that green buildings can be both environmentally friendly and technologically advanced.

The Crystal, London, United Kingdom

The Change Initiative, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai, known for its opulent skyscrapers, also houses The Change Initiative, a building dedicated to promoting sustainable living. This retail and office space, designed by HOK, incorporates energy-efficient systems and eco-friendly materials. The Change Initiative serves as a beacon in the desert, proving that sustainable practices can thrive even in the most challenging environments.

The Edge, New York City, USA

Bahrain World Trade Center, Manama, Bahrain

Bahrain takes a unique approach to sustainability with the Bahrain World Trade Center. This iconic structure, designed by Atkins, integrates three massive wind turbines between its twin towers. Harnessing the power of the wind, the turbines generate a significant portion of the building’s energy needs, showcasing an innovative way to incorporate renewable energy sources into urban development.

The Pixel Building, Melbourne, Australia

Greener Buildings for a Green Future

These are just a few examples of the incredible strides being made in sustainable architecture. From self-sufficient powerhouses to biophilic havens, these buildings showcase the immense potential of green design to create healthier, more resilient communities. As we move towards a more sustainable future, let these architectural marvels inspire us to build smarter, greener, and leave a lighter footprint on our planet.

[ajisaienergy]

Solar Surpasses Wind: A Bright Turn in Australia's Energy Landscape

Australia, known for its vast landscapes and scorching sun, has witnessed a remarkable shift in its energy dynamics. The sun, once merely a source of light and warmth, has now outshone its breezy counterpart, wind, in the realm of power generation. Let's embark on a journey through this solar evolution, exploring how it has surpassed wind energy and illuminated a sustainable future for Australia.

Our green energy initiatives are not tied down to merely harnessing solar or wind power but in sparking human consciousness towards greener alternatives. With ground-breaking advancements in battery technology and grid-level energy storage solutions, we aim to make renewable power an everyday reality. A quest that fuels our untiring commitment at AJISAI Energy & Tion Renewables - shattering boundaries and lighting up lives with emanated rays from nature's own resources.

The Rise of Solar Energy

Solar energy, once a niche player in Australia's power game, has risen to prominence, capturing the imagination of households and industries alike. The abundant sunlight across the continent has made solar panels a common sight, adorning rooftops and open fields.

Winds of Change: Australia's Wind Power Era

Wind power had its heyday, with towering turbines spinning gracefully across the Australian landscape. However, recent times have witnessed a shift, as solar energy takes the lead in the renewable energy race.

Solar's Surpassing Efficiency

In the quest for efficiency, solar panels have become more adept at converting sunlight into electricity. The efficiency of solar technology has surpassed that of wind, making it a more reliable and viable source of power.

Harnessing the Sun: Solar Technology Unveiled

The technology behind solar energy has evolved significantly, with innovations like photovoltaic cells and concentrated solar power systems. These advancements have propelled solar energy to the forefront of the renewable energy revolution.

Wind Energy Challenges and Limitations

Despite its grace, wind energy faces challenges such as intermittency and geographical limitations. Solar, with its consistent exposure to sunlight, has overcome these hurdles, making it a more dependable energy source.

Environmental Impact: Solar vs. Wind

In the battle for environmental friendliness, solar emerges as a cleaner option. The manufacturing and maintenance of solar panels have a lower environmental footprint compared to the massive structures and manufacturing processes associated with wind turbines.

The Economic Aspect: Solar's Cost Efficacy

As technology advances, the cost of solar panels has steadily declined, making solar energy more economically viable. This cost efficiency has played a pivotal role in its widespread adoption across Australia.

Government Initiatives Driving Solar Growth

Government initiatives and policies promoting clean energy have bolstered the solar industry. Incentives, subsidies, and supportive regulations have paved the way for a solar-powered future.

Community Adoption: Solar Panels on the Rise

Communities are embracing solar energy, not just as a means to cut down on electricity bills but as a collective effort towards sustainability. Rooftops adorned with solar panels signify a community-driven commitment to a greener future.

Future Trends: What Lies Beyond for Solar

The future holds exciting prospects for solar energy. Advancements in energy storage technology, grid integration, and innovations in solar panel efficiency promise an even brighter tomorrow.

Read more: 10 Benefits of Wind Power Renewable Energy in Australia

Addressing Concerns: FAQs on Solar Dominance

FAQ 1: How did solar surpass wind in Australia?

Solar's ascendancy in Australia can be attributed to advancements in technology, consistent sunlight availability, and government support. The efficiency of solar panels and their decreasing costs have made them a preferred choice for both individuals and industries.

FAQ 2: Is wind power still relevant?

While wind power remains relevant, the spotlight has shifted towards solar due to its increased efficiency, lower environmental impact, and cost-effectiveness.

FAQ 3: What are the environmental benefits of solar?

Solar energy is environmentally friendly, producing no emissions during operation. The manufacturing and maintenance processes, though not entirely without impact, are generally considered less harmful than those associated with wind energy.

FAQ 4: How does the government support solar energy?

Governments support solar energy through incentives, subsidies, and favorable regulations. These measures encourage individuals and businesses to invest in solar technologies, fostering a sustainable energy landscape.

FAQ 5: Can individuals contribute to the solar revolution?

Absolutely! Individuals can contribute by installing solar panels on their rooftops, reducing their carbon footprint, and advocating for sustainable practices. Small actions collectively lead to significant positive impacts on the environment.

In conclusion, the sun has risen not just in the sky but also in Australia's energy hierarchy, overshadowing wind power with its efficiency, economic viability, and environmental benefits. As solar panels dot the landscape, they symbolize not just a shift in energy sources but a commitment to a cleaner, brighter future for Australia. Embracing solar energy is not just a trend; it's a step towards a sustainable tomorrow.

Follow more: AJISAI Energy & Tion Renewables au.enrollbusiness callupcontact wordofmouth pininthemap zumvu

[alyssamonah]

Choosing the Right Standing Solar Lights for Your Garden

When it comes to illuminating your garden, standing solar lights have become an increasingly popular and eco-friendly choice. Not only do they provide soft and ambient lighting to enhance your outdoor space, but they also harness the power of the sun to do so, reducing your electricity bills and environmental footprint. However, with a wide variety of standing solar lights available in the market, choosing the right ones for your garden can be a daunting task. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the factors to consider and provide you with a selection of the best standing solar lights to brighten up your garden.

Why Choose Solar Lights for Your Garden?

Before diving into the selection process, it's essential to understand why solar lighting towers Australia are an excellent choice for your garden.

Eco-Friendly Lighting

Solar lights are powered by renewable energy from the sun, making them an eco-friendly lighting option. By using solar lights, you reduce your reliance on traditional electricity sources, which typically rely on fossil fuels.

Energy and Cost Savings

Since solar lights draw their energy from the sun, they are cost-effective and can significantly reduce your electricity bills over time. Once installed, they require minimal maintenance and operate free of charge.

Easy Installation

Most solar lights are designed for easy DIY installation. They don't require complicated wiring or an electrician's expertise, making them accessible to everyone.

Enhanced Outdoor Aesthetics

Solar lights add an enchanting touch to your garden or outdoor space. They provide soft, warm, and atmospheric lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetics of your landscape.

Automatic Operation

Many solar lights are equipped with light sensors that automatically turn them on at dusk and off at dawn, ensuring your garden is well-lit without any manual intervention.

Now you understand the benefits of solar lights, let's delve into the key factors to consider when choosing the right standing solar lights for your garden.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Solar Lights

Lighting Type

There are various types of solar lights available, each with its own purpose:

Pathway Lights: Designed for illuminating walkways and paths.

Accent Lights: Used to highlight specific garden features, like statues or plants.

Floodlights: Provide broad, intense light and are suitable for larger garden areas.

String Lights: Add a festive touch to your outdoor space and are ideal for events and gatherings.

Consider the primary purpose of your solar lights and choose the type that suits your needs.

Brightness and Lumens

The brightness of solar lights is measured in lumens. Higher lumens mean brighter light. Decide how much brightness you need for your garden, keeping in mind that pathway lights may require fewer lumens than floodlights.

Battery Capacity and Runtime

Solar lights have built-in batteries to store energy during the day for use at night. Check the battery capacity and runtime to ensure the lights can provide illumination throughout the night.

Charging Time and Solar Panel Efficiency

The solar panel's efficiency affects how quickly the lights charge during the day. Look for solar lights with efficient panels, especially if your garden doesn't receive direct sunlight for extended periods.

Material and Durability

Since solar lights are exposed to the elements, choose lights made from durable materials, such as stainless steel or weather-resistant plastic, to ensure they can withstand various weather conditions.

Design and Aesthetics

Consider the design of the solar lights and how well they match your garden's aesthetics. Some lights come in various styles and finishes to complement your outdoor decor.

Installation and Maintenance

Check if the lights are easy to install and whether they require regular maintenance. Most solar lights are designed for hassle-free installation and minimal upkeep.

Price and Warranty

Set a budget for your solar lights and compare different options within your price range. Additionally, check for warranties to ensure you have some protection in case of defects or malfunctions.

Top Standing Solar Lights for Your Garden

To make your selection process easier, here are some of the top-standing solar lights available in the market, catering to different needs and preferences:

GIGALUMI Solar Pathway Lights

Type: Pathway Lights

Brightness: 12 lumens

Battery Capacity: 600mAh

Charging Time: 6-8 hours

Material: Stainless Steel

Price: Budget-Friendly

GIGALUMI's Solar Pathway Lights are an excellent choice for those looking to illuminate garden paths and walkways. With a stainless steel construction and automatic on/off functionality, they offer both durability and convenience.

MAGGIFT Solar Garden Lights

Type: Accent Lights

Brightness: 15 lumens

Battery Capacity: 600mAh

Charging Time: 6-8 hours

Material: Plastic

Price: Affordable

MAGGIFT Solar Garden Lights are perfect for adding a charming touch to your garden. They come with a stake for easy installation and are designed to highlight specific garden features.

URPOWER Solar Flood Lights

Type: Floodlights

Brightness: 800 lumens

Battery Capacity: 2200mAh

Charging Time: 6-8 hours

Material: Plastic

Price: Mid-Range

URPOWER Solar Flood Lights provide ample illumination for larger garden areas. They are equipped with motion sensors for added security and come with adjustable brightness settings.

Brightech Ambience Pro Solar String Lights

Type: String Lights

Brightness: 3,000K soft white light

Battery Capacity: N/A (powered by solar panel)

Charging Time: 6-8 hours

Material: Weatherproof plastic

Price: Mid-Range

Brightech Ambience Pro Solar String Lights create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your garden. They are perfect for outdoor events, parties, and gatherings.

Conclusion

Selecting the right standing solar lights for your garden is a decision that should be based on your specific needs, preferences, and budget. Consider the type of lighting you require, the brightness level, battery capacity, solar panel efficiency, durability, and aesthetics. By keeping these factors in mind and exploring options like GIGALUMI, MAGGIFT, URPOWER, and Brightech, you can transform your garden into a beautifully illuminated oasis that's both eco-friendly and cost-effective. Enjoy the enchanting ambience of your garden while knowing that you've made a sustainable choice for both your outdoor space and the environment.

[lordeemailarchive]

:-(

EXCLUSIVE EMAIL TO FANS IN OCEANIA

(10/11/2021) (Solar Institute Bulletin No. 9.5) (From New York City)

Hello sweet ones, So you may have heard by now about the postponement of the Australia and NZ Solar Power shows. No words can tell you how gutted I am by this. The reality of a developing COVID management system in both countries just means there’s too much uncertainty for the promoters to feel confident we wouldn’t be at risk of last-minute show cancellations due to possible lockdowns. I’m well aware (and hopeful) restrictions could be stable and workable by February, but we don’t know that for sure, and the pressure was on to make a decision so our crew could find other work and our venues and promoters could properly re-book our shows. This is not me being a flake, this is not me being pregnant (you dweebs it was a EUPHEMISM I’M NOT PREGNANT HAHA), this is me and the whole team who planned this tour being no match for a really complex public health situation. I am absolutely devastated to let you down. I feel physically ill typing this. I wanted so badly to be the light at the end of this lockdown hell tunnel for you guys. I think about gorgeous angels like Courtney in NZ, or Josiah and Maddie in Australia, people who have been there supporting me since the beginning, people who have tickets and accommodation plans already, and my stomach just drops. I hope you know how deeply I value your commitment to me as an artist, and the relationships we all have, and I’d NEVER take them for granted. Please know that if there’d been ANY way to avoid this, I would have. Some slightly brighter news: We’ve been able to add second shows in Wellington, Brisbane and Perth so that’s sick! That presale is available Wednesday using strangeairlines as your special code. And some wider tour news: I’m very jazzed to announce that I’m taking the delicious Remi Wolf on the US tour. I absolutely adore Remi’s buzzy smart pop tunes and you should definitely listen to her a lot in preparation. I first was introduced to her via my bandmate Jimmy who played ‘Shawty’ at every party one summer, but her recent EP and new album Juno slap also. And in Europe and the UK, the magnificent Marlon Williams will be joining us!!!!! Marlon is basically God’s gift to ears and also a really great hang and super funny. He’s a towering presence live, he’s gonna fuck you up and also make you fall in love… because have you seen him… We’re partial to singing together when we can so you might be treated to an impromptu song or two. We still haven’t chosen the Aus and NZ supports, partly because of the developing situation. I am hard in the brainstorm zone… Email me if you think of anyone who would be rad, but I promise to bring you some amazing openers in ‘23. Anyway. I hope you can understand the shitty situation. It’s ok if you’re mad at me, I’m mad at me too. Just know I did everything I could. The new dates are in full below. I’ll see you there, Ella xxxxxxxxx

(source: forwarded email by u/Glittering_Feeling45)

[flirting-with-psychology]

Bold all the things you’ve done:

1) You’ve gone skydiving. 2) You’ve kissed someone. 3) You’ve gone on a road trip. 4) You’ve gone streaking. 5) You’ve stayed up all night to watch the sun rise. 6) You’ve been on a roller-coaster. 7) You’ve been snorkeling. 8) You’ve been scuba-diving. 9) You’ve learned to play an instrument. 10) You’ve learned to speak another language.

11) You’ve fallen in love. 12) You’ve done something charitable. 13) You’ve purchased a physical CD and/or record. 14) You’ve been to Disneyland and/or Disney World. 15) You’ve been to a different country. 16) You’ve had a pet. 17) You’ve seen your favorite band/artist perform live. 18) You’ve done something crazy to your hair. 19) You’ve slept on a beach. 20) You’ve seen the Northern Lights.

21) You’ve wished upon a shooting star. 22) You’ve observed a solar eclipse. 23) You’ve learned something crazy and/or awesome about your family’s history. 24) You’ve ordered everything on the menu at an amazing restaurant. 25) You’ve eaten at the best restaurant in the world. 26) You’ve met your idol. 27) You’ve made the news. 28) You’ve run a marathon. 29) You’ve learned how to ride a bike. 30) You’ve learned how to water-ski.

31) You’ve climbed a mountain. 32) You’ve thrown an amazing party. 33) You’ve gone skinny-dipping. 34) You’ve been to a protest/rally. 35) You’ve voted. 36) You’ve lived on your own. 37) You’ve assembled IKEA furniture on your own successfully. 38) You’ve been to prom. 39) You’ve been on a safari. 40) You’ve been to the Grand Canyon.

41) You’ve been camping. 42) You’ve cooked an entire meal, including dessert. 43) You’ve achieved closure with an ex. 44) You’ve spent a paycheck on something frivolous for yourself. 45) You’ve stayed at a fancy hotel. 46) You’ve been to a fancy spa. 47) You’ve spent all day in bed, just because. 48) You’ve scored your dream job. 49) You’ve ridden a horse. 50) You’ve played hooky from work and/or school.

51) You’ve been to The Metropolitan Museum of Art. 52) You’ve seen an opera. 53) You’ve seen a ballet. 54) You’ve been to a Broadway show. 55) You’ve learned how to drive a car. 56) You’ve tried sushi. 57) You’ve swam in the ocean. 58) You’ve driven across the country. 59) You’ve traveled solo. 60) You’ve traveled with friends.

61) You’ve learned how to play a sport well. 62) You’ve learned how to dance. 63) You’ve been to all 50 states. 64) You’ve been to the Eiffel Tower. 65) You’ve been to the Great Wall of China. 66) You’ve tried a really fancy wine. 67) You’ve written a book. 68) You’ve written a screenplay. 69) You’ve been to a religious ceremony not of your faith. 70) You’ve crashed a party.

71) You’ve been in a wedding. 72) You’ve attended a black-tie affair. 73) You’ve been in a band. 74) You’ve visited the white house. 75) You’ve read a book in one sitting. 76) You’ve set a Guinness World Record. 77) You’ve communicated with someone who doesn’t speak the same language as you. 78) You’ve been to North America. 79) You’ve been to South America. 80) You’ve been to Asia.

81) You’ve been to Australia. 82) You’ve been to Africa. 83) You’ve been to Europe. 84) You’ve been to Antarctica. 85) You’ve won a contest. 86) You’ve run for some sort of leadership position. 87) You’ve been on TV. 88) You’ve been skiing. 89) You’ve been surfing. 90) You’ve been ice skating.

91) You’ve had a surprise party. 92) You’ve cultivated a hobby. 93) You’ve made a best friend. 94) You’ve had your 15 minutes of fame. 95) You’ve climbed a tree. 96) You’ve been in a hot air balloon. 97) You’ve won an award. 98) You’ve given a speech. 99) You’ve learned to swim. 100) You’ve been rollerskating.

101) You’ve gotten a tattoo. 102) You’ve tried a food you were nervous to eat. 103) You’ve told someone you love them. 104) You’ve gotten lost somewhere on purpose. 105) You’ve been on a game show. 106) You’ve hooked up with someone “famous”. 107) You’ve been mistaken for a celebrity. 108) You’ve gambled in Las Vegas. 109) You’ve made a religious pilgrimage. 110) You’ve hooked up with someone outside your age range.

111) You’ve gotten drunk. 112) You’ve gotten high. 113) You’ve made a bucket list. 114) You’ve felt alive. 115) You’ve lived your life to the fullest.

[vidurbharadwaj]

"Top 5 Sustainable Architects in the World"

In today's time, the environment is fighting with several issues humans have caused due to their irresponsibility and ignorance. But all thanks to Sustainable Architects who are doing hard work in protecting our planet.

and Green Buildings

Sustainable Architectures are those which we make with the help of renewable resources and recyclable materials. It reduces the total energy consumption and the amount of waste. The most significant role of sustainable architecture is that it reduces the hazardous impact of the building on the surrounding environment.

Sustainable Architectures never end with the completion of a building, but it goes on forever! When we mean forever, it tells us that a building's design should be in a way that it can prevent heat and cold, uses solar panels for the reduction of energy, consumes natural light, and has a tremendous eco-friendly environment.

In a Green Building, architects use resources that are healthy to surrounding, resulting in a good building atmosphere.

Why are they So Important?

These things are important so that we can save our planet Earth from various kinds of issues. As humans, we have used plenty of Earth's resources. That's why it's time to wake up and try to save our environment.

Sustainable Architects

To save our environment and make the buildings in an eco-friendly way, numerous architects have brought sustainability to their designs. In this article, we will list the "Top 5 Sustainable Architects In The World". They all have gigantic knowledge about the architectural industry and are experts in their own ways.

Without further ado, let's begin!

1.Vidur Bhardwaj

With his immense knowledge in the field of Sustainable Architecture, the director of "The 3C Company, Noida"- Mr. Vidur Bhardwaj, a consummate professional artist has made an example for others to follow. Graduated from the School of Planning and Architecture in Delhi, he has got numerous awards for himself and The 3C Company, Noida.

Mr. Vidur Bharadwaj, an architect par excellence, has produced unique Green Buildings like The Patni Campus, Noida, and Wipro Technologies in Gurugram that have been certified as Green Buildings by the USGBC, USA. His Real Estate Company, The 3c Company, Noida, has shaken hands with the very well-known Resort, the Four Seasons. Due to his vast knowledge and stupendous skills, Vidur Bhardwaj, an outstanding personality, is Advisor for the Hong Kong Development Group.

The director of The 3c company, Noida, not only believes in Green Buildings but also in Green Living!

No doubt that his project for Wipro Technologies was the biggest Eco-friendly Building in the World! In 2005, Vidur Bharadwaj, a phenomenal architect, received an award for the same. This great respect was given to him by none other than the Missile Man -Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, itself (then President of India). Besides a renowned sustainable architect, Vidur Bhardwaj is also a fantastic painter. We look for more futuristic projects by this superlative artist.

2. Ken Yeang

Mr. Ken Yeang is a sustainable architect coming from a small place in Malaysia, but this hasn't stopped him from achieving big things! He has been featured in the article 'One of the 50 People That Could Save the Planet' of the famous newspaper 'The Guardian.'

Some of the renowned Sustainable Architecture built by him includes Solaris Tower, Singapore, and Eco Tower, London. Mr. Ken Yean never competes with nature for getting the desired space, but he does his creativity in the limited place assigned to him. One of the most considerable contributions made by him is the Bioclimatic Skyscraper. Indeed, aspiring architects should learn from his marvelous works.

3. Renzo Piano

Born in a family with an ancestral history of astounding builders, Mr. Renzo Piano is a superb sustainable architect. He includes green and natural materials in his designed buildings, making them unique besides environment friendly. Renzo Piano has contributed a lot to nature with his aim of making Green and Sustainable Architectures.

The New York Times Building, New York, and the Shard, London are some of the Piano's notable achievements. An outstanding example of his architectural creativity is The California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco! This building, designed by Mr. Renzo Piano, uses natural lights in at least 90% of the total space, which is quite impressive. Renzo's Sustainable Architectures are a must-watch thing.

4.Glenn Murcutt

Without a second thought, Mr. Glenn Murcutt is definitely an extraordinary sustainable architect. For his Green Works, he has won innumerable awards, such as the Pritzker Architecture Prize and the American Institute of Architects Gold Medal. Mr. Murcutt got inspired by the traditional architects of his country, which led him to begin his career in architecture. This sustainable architect hailing from Australia has received his graduation degree from the University of South Wales Technical College.

Inspired by the woolshed's principle, he has built houses with proper heating and cooling systems that also have open floors for excellent air circulation. Mr.Glenn Murcutt's major sustainable works include Australian Islamic Centre, Newport, and Moss Vale Education Centre, Moss Vale. His creativity and unlimited talent inspire everyone to be responsible towards their surroundings.

5.William McDonough

Mr. William McDonough is America's top green architect. As he has received the most reputable award- The Presidential Award for Sustainable Development, there is no doubt that he is a talented sustainable architect.

Prominent architectures such as the Ford Rouge truck plant and Adam Joseph Lewis Center for Environmental Studies at Oberlin College are the two noteworthy Green Structures designed by William McDonough.

Mr. William McDonough has also come up with Brad Pitt for the establishment of 'Make It Right Foundation. This foundation aims at building green and storm-resistant homes at a reasonable price. His extraordinary Green Works make us proud.

The Bottom Line:

As we have come to the end, there is only one thing to say that these Sustainable Architects have played an important factor in saving the environment with their world-class designs and wonderful construction ideas. From Mr. Vidur Bharadwaj, an ambitious green architect, to Mr. William McDonough, who is compassionate about his work, every sustainable architecture mentioned in the article is remarkable.

[earthtrackgroup]

🌞 Illuminate your worksite with Earthsolar Light Towers! Made in Australia for durability and reliability, our solar-powered lighting towers are trusted by top mining companies and industrial sites. Choose from our MAXI, MEGA, ELION, and MINI series for powerful off-grid lighting solutions. Browse our range and make your site carbon neutral today! Contact us at 1300 410 485. 🌟 #SolarPower #GreenEnergy #Worksites #LightingSolutions

[vizona-australia]

In the realm of urban development, Local Governments and Councils constantly seek ways to balance budgets while ensuring sustainable infrastructure. LED lighting emerges as a cost-efficient solution, providing long-term financial benefits for municipalities. This blog explores how Local Governments can save money by investing in LED lighting and how Vizona can be a guiding partner in making informed choices.

Read more: https://www.vizona.com.au/blog/vizona-guide-to-long-term-savings-with-led-lighting-for-local-governments/

[fedgovwhistleblower]

United States Secret Space Solar Warden Program Waste, Fraud, Abuse of US Taxpayers Dollars

Secret Space Program and the Missing Quadrillions October 26, 2012 - UFOs and Space Anomalies - Tagged: ET, NASA, nazi, paperclip, secret space program, technology, UFO The Quadrillion dollar question: Where did all our money go and why are we in such debt globally? There is a separate space program, which you guys are paying for and they’re not telling you anything about it, and as a result, NASA is a bit of a joke. We have a special space program and it is apparently known as the United States Aerospace Command and it is a joint service agency. That means it includes Navy, Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, and it also includes the British Aerospace Command. It’s basically where all the missing 100′s of Trillions , sorry Quadrilions went. (our calculator doesn’t have enough digits to work it out). Robert “Bob” Dean worked for NASA for over 30 years. In 2009 he thought it about time to reveal the origins a NASA photographic library “lost footage” and evidence of a USSS fleet (detailing a transfer of admiralty from the USSS Curtis Lemay and USSS Roscoe Hillencotter) captured on film during the Apollo 13 Mission. Nasa maintains they had lost 40 rolls of film with 1000′s of shots from the mission documenting this but a Japanese scientist, had a copy of everything from the sixties due to ever space agency involved having copies of the Secret Space Program and public Space Program Missions. USSS Hillenkoetter Beamship Scout Carrier : Solar Warden S.S.P. September 14, 2015 Commissioned 1988 Built by Northrup (funding B-2 Stealth Bomber Boondoggle) http://transmissionsmedia.com/secret-space-program-and-the-missing-quadrillions 9/11 and Star Wars: Billions on Missile Defense Can't Stop Four Airliners on 9/11 130 billion of our tax dollars were poured into developing that system. It was designed to detect and intercept missiles fired from an unknown destination traveling at well over 10 times the speed of a commercial airliner, and to shoot them down in 15 minutes or less, before they reached their US targets. According to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) website, "a defensive system may need to hit a warhead smaller than an oil drum that is traveling above the atmosphere at speeds greater than 13,000 miles per hour." The CBO report states that missile defense and intercept systems must take down an ICBM in a matter of minutes or it is all over. You may remember that before 9/11, there were a number of tests of the "Star Wars" missile defense systems. Some tests failed, while others succeeded. But there is an important question here. If these sophisticated military systems were designed to detect missiles fired from unknown locations at over 13,000 mph and shoot them down in mere minutes, why on 9/11 could they not detect any one of the four large airliners traveling at a mere 600 mph, especially when two of them were known to be lost for over 40 minutes before they crashed? This question applies especially to Flight 77, which crashed into the Pentagon. The first plane hijacking on 9/11 was reported at about 8:20 AM (see NY Times article), well over an hour before Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon at 9:38. According to the Times article, Flight 77 was reported lost at 8:56 A.M., 42 minutes before it crashed. Even if the FAA radar systems completely failed and FAA officials failed to alert the military, all military leaders certainly knew within minutes that the World Trade Center had been hit at 8:46. By 9:03, when the second tower was hit, they certainly knew there were big problems. How is it possible that the Pentagon's highly touted missile detections systems could not locate Flight 77 in the 42 minutes it was known to be lost before it crashed into the heart of the defense system of the U.S.? The missile detection systems did not depend on FAA radar and were programmed to pick up any unaccounted for objects and raise alarms immediately, as mentioned on the CBO website. https://www.wanttoknow.info/911starwars Sept 24, 2019. Huge TR-3B Video Of 9/11 Direct Energy Weapon Type Explosions Caught Hidden From General Public Around The World.. All Validate whistle-blowers claims of "Solar Warden, Radiant Guardian TR-3B, TR6 Telos". Which I believe scares United Nations, Congressional Members, Governments around the World. Published on Apr 6, 2016 Breathtaking UFO Attack Video | Terrible UFO Attack Caught on Camera | Latest UFO Sighting Subscribe US : https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNuf... More UFO Videos Breaking-UFO Attack Caught Over Syria | UFO Attack Video 2016 | UFO Sightings https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8T6v... Real UFO Attack Caught on Camera Over New Guinea | UFO Sightings 2015 | Real UFO Footage https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anbUo... Scariest UFO Video | Flying Angel Captured During Major Lightning in Los Angeles https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x_02b... UFO Sightings | UFO caught on Tape over Dubai | UFO Sightings 2015 | Real UFO Videos https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wrlgk... UFO Sightings | UFO caught on Tape over Dubai | UFO Sightings 2015 | Real UFO Videos https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l5B4-... Real UFO Sightings | Strange Mysterious lightnings And UFO in the Sky | UFO Sightings 2015 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zi_rP... Real UFO Sightings | Plane Escorted By Triangle Shaped UFO | Latest UFO Cases https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jMI3x... Real UFO Sightings | 3 Strange, Mysterious Lights Rotating In The Sky | Latest UFO Case https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NnMjO... Real UFO Sightings 2015 | Black Triangle UFO Caught on Camera | UFO Caught On Tape https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuKYJ... As per Wikipedia alien definition is ‘Alien is a person in a country who is not a national of that country’. Many people around the world noticed UFO-Aliens sightings. Space research agencies like NASA, ESA, ROSCOSMOS, ISRO are still doing research on possibility of life in other planet. Many countries like USA, Canada, Australia, India, Russia and China are doing research on the same.

[solarbeee]

Using Solar Power to Generate Electricity

Usingsolarpower, energy can be generated from the sunlight. There are many ways to harness this energy. You can generate electricity with the help of solar architecture or you can use solar thermal energy.

Concentrated solar power

Using concentratedsolar power Batemans Bay(CSP), the energy produced from the sun can be stored for use during cloudy days or overcast days. The stored thermal energy can then be used to generate electricity. This technology has become more affordable and has increased in popularity.

There are three main types of CSP systems: power tower, dish Stirling, and fresnel reflectors. Each technology works differently. Power tower systems are expected to grow in popularity because of their ability to store energy. The dish Stirling system uses a similar technology to a satellite dish, but uses no water.

The dish Stirling system consists of a parabolic concentrator, a Stirling engine, and a solar light receiver. Its design is different from other concentrating technologies. The heat produced by the sun drives the heat engine, which in turn powers a steam turbine to generate electricity.

Photovoltaic cells

Several types of solar cells are used to harness solar energy. They include polycrystalline, monocrystalline, and thin film. They can be arranged in an array to generate higher currents. They can also be used to supplement conventional electric power sources. Some of the solar energy is stored in batteries, while some is used to generate hydrogen gas for fuel cells.

Most modern solar cells are made of silicon. However, thin film solar cells are rapidly growing in popularity. This technology can be simpler to manufacture. It also tends to be less efficient than silicon cells.

In terms of cost, manufacturing a monocrystalline PV cell is more expensive than a polycrystalline one. The efficiencies are generally about 15% to 18%.

The 'photovoltaic effect', which is the name given to the chemical reaction that converts light energy to electrical energy, was first studied in 1954 by Bell Labs. The first practical applications of a photovoltaic cell were in telecommunications.

Concentrated solar thermal energy

During the last decade, the concentrated solar thermal (CST) industry has seen an exponential growth. While some countries have developed plants, most of the development has taken place in the United States and Spain. Despite these developments, the CST industry has fallen behind other alternative energy systems.

The technology has evolved from the earliest attempts to use mirrors to focus the sun's rays. Archimedes used mirrors to focus light and heat on his enemy's ship. Today, regular solar thermal technology is used to power hot water systems in Australia. These systems use mirrors to direct sunlight and heat to a receiver.

The first concentrated-solar plant was built in California in the 1980s. It used a design similar to that of today's power tower plants. The plant produced 1 MW of electricity with superheated steam. Other plants were built in California, Spain, Japan and the United States.

Building-integrated photovoltaics

Increasing awareness of clean energy security, rising demand for zero emission buildings and government norms for sustainable buildings are expected to drive the market growth. The market is expected to witness a CAGR of 14.5% from 2017-2021, according to a recent report by Future Market Insights.

The European market is expected to lead the global market due to the favorable outlook for renewable energy. Germany and Italy are among the countries that promote the use of solar energy. These countries have also passed several regulations to support the growth. Moreover, the government has encouraged building-integrated photovoltaics systems across various projects.

The market growth is also driven by the increasing focus of consumers on energy efficiency. As a result, more and more consumers are opting for homes with integrated photovoltaics.

Recycling

Using asolar panelto generate electricity is a green, clean, and renewable source of energy. It can be used at homes, schools, and commercial and industrial facilities. The panels are installed at private commercial and industrial facilities.

As the technology advances and the cost ofsolar panelsdeclines, the demand for recycling of used panels will increase. The value of recycled PV materials will rise to more than $80 billion by 2050.

The solar industry is developing new technology that will make recycling easier. For example, a company called Solarcycle claims it can extract 95 percent of high-value metals from a solar panel. However, it faces tough economics. Its cost of recycling a panel is between $20 and $30.

Other recycling initiatives are making steady progress. In the US, Solaria and First Solar have manufacturing facilities in the United States, and Veolia has one factory in France.

[tweedheadsaustralia]

Invigorating Coastal Lifestyle

[imjustthemechanic]

Natalie Jones and the Golden Ship

Part 1/? - A Meeting at the Palace Part 2/? - Curry Talk Part 3/? - Princess Sitamun Part 4/? - Not At Rest Part 5/? - Dead Men Tell no Tales Part 6/? - Sitamun Rises Again Part 7/? - The Curse of Madame Desrosiers Part 8/? - Sabotage at Guedelon Part 9/? - A Miracle Part 10/? - Desrosiers’ Elixir Part 11/? - Athens in October Part 12/? - The Man in Black Part 13/? - Mr. Neustadt Part 14/? - The Other Side of the Story Part 15/? - A Favour Part 16/? - A Knock on the Window Part 17/? - Sir Stephen and Buckeye Part 18/? - Books of Alchemy Part 19/? - The Answers Part 20/? - A Gift Left Behind Part 21/? - Santorini Part 22/? - What the Doves Found Part 23/? - A Thief in the Night Part 24/? - Healing Part 25/? - Newton’s Code Part 26/? - Montenegro Part 27/? - The Lost Relic Part 28/? - The Homunculinus Part 29/? - The End is Near Part 30/? - The Face of Evil Part 31/? - The Morning After Part 32/? - Next Stop Part 33/? - A Sighting in Messina Part 34/? - Taormina Part 35/? - Burning Part 36/? - Recovery Part 37/? - Pilgrimage to Vesuvius

Where has Newton gone next?  It’s a pun.

By morning, the smoke had cleared and the volcano was quiet.

This was definitely not what anyone had expected.  As the group ate breakfast in the hotel’s little restaurant, the news playing on the television above the bar was all about the sudden cessation of the eruption.  An anchorwoman said in Italian, with rather poorly-translated English subtitles for the tourists, that scientists were puzzled but Etna seemed to have gone back to sleep.  If the volcano remained quiescent for twenty-four hours, the evacuated Sicilians would be allowed to return to their homes on the slopes.  There were interviews with several people who expressed their gratitude to God that their farms were not going to be destroyed, and their eagerness to go home.

“They did something,” said Sam, pointing a fork at the TV.

Natasha had been thinking the same thing.  Desrosiers must have come here because she knew Newton would go to an erupting volcano to get geothermal energy from it… maybe that was where the enormous heat in his gauntlet had come from.  Somehow, he’d convinced her to help him make the philosopher’s stone, and now that they had the notebooks, they’d returned to the volcano to drain the rest of its energy.

“Do they have everything they need now?” she wondered aloud.  “Are they ready to just make the philosopher’s stone?”  Maybe they were working on it right now, down in the bowels of the volcano… or would it still be too hot in there?  “Where’s our Voynich book?”

Sharon pulled it out of Sir Stephen’s backpack.  “We still can’t read it,” she said.

“Yeah, but there might be something to give us a hint,” said Nat.

That seemed pretty unlikely, even to Nat, but for the moment nobody had any better ideas.  They flipped through the softcover facsimile.  There were no pictures of volcanoes anywhere in the book, but Nat supposed any form of energy would do.  Solar, geothermal, wind… ancient alchemists might have even tried to do it with fire.  The Minoan alchemists on Santorini had used the volcanic heat of Thira.  Heaven knew what Rasputin had found in the middle of Siberia, maybe one of the powerful Russian rivers.  Of course, if Newton could drain energy from a volcano to store and move it, he could go anywhere he liked.

Even so, she was pretty confident now that Newton was not going to Australia.  The simple fact that he’d gone out of his way to mention it seemed evidence enough of that.  She glanced at the book again, as Sharon idly turned pages, and then something caught her eye.

“Wait,” said Nat, and turned back a page or two.

It was an illustration of a plant – this entire section of the book was drawings of plants.  Notes in the margins said that botanists believed it might be a sunflower, which suggested that the book was about the plants of the Americas.  Somebody had even offered the theory that its alphabet was an attempt to record a native American language in a way that would be intelligible to Europeans.  But Natasha, thinking of volcanoes, had noticed something else.

Taormina was full of volcano-related souvenirs and merchandise right now, and as she and Jim had walked down the street yesterday, they’d seen multiple versions of an illustration showing a cross-section of the mountain.  The posters, postcards, and t-shirts depicted many fissures branching off a big central well that brought lava to the surface, where it erupted from the vents and gave off steam that rose into a tower with billows at the top.  Everything in alchemy was recorded in codes and metaphors.  This was not botany.  This was geology.

“Etna,” said Natasha.  She put her finger at the top of the page, where a heading was written: five of the mysterious letters, the first and last the same.  The name of the mountain in Greek was Aetna.

“No way,” said Sharon, turning the book to face her again.  “Really?”

“Somebody get a pen,” Nat ordered.

A waitress was walking by.  Jim snatched her notebook and pen from her.  “Sorry, need this,” he said, and sat back down to copy out the four letters that were A, E, T, and N.  These were fairly common letters in Greek, so they were soon able to get to work on the rest of the page.  The results were disappointing: they found things that might have been words, but many more seemed like random groups of letters.  Some were repeated multiple times, some appeared to be backwards or to have had the letters arranged in alphabetical order.  There must be layers and layers of code and cipher here, Nat thought, and without the key they didn’t know what to look for where.  Figuring it out might take years.

“If the sunflower is a diagram of the mountain,” Nat said, “maybe these labels are places to say where to best collect its energy for alchemical purposes.”  Unfortunately, it was hardly a map to scale.  Without being able to read the text, they couldn’t tell where to look for Newton and Desrosiers.

Sharon turned the page.  There was another plant… was this one also a volcano?  The second letter of its name was an E, but the rest weren’t ones they’d figured out.  Nat counted them, and made some guesses.  The headings were the most simply encoded parts, and letters one and five in this word were the same.  If those were Greek beta, then the whole name might be…

“Vesuvius,” said Jim, before Nat could speak.  “We gotta go to Mount Vesuvius.”

“Not necessarily,” said Sam.  He reached over to flip a few more pages.  “The Mediterranean’s full of volcanoes.  What about Stromboli or Kolumbo?”

“No, he’ll go to Vesuvius,” said Jim.  “I’m sure.  Trust me.”

A piece suddenly fell into place.  “He’s right,” said Nat.  “He’s got to be.”

“You’re biased,” said Clint.

“No,” Nat insisted.  “It’s a word game!  Alchemy is all in puzzles, codes, and puns.  Newton in German is Neustadt, and in Greek it’s Neapoli.  That’s the area in Athens where his apartment was.  What’s the city below Vesuvius?” she asked, and waited expectantly.  One by one, she saw her companions’ expressions change as the light dawned.

“All right,” said Sam, as Sharon closed the book.  “Naples.”

With the evacuees returning in droves, it was no problem to get a ferry to the mainland.  In Calabria they got on a train heading north to Termini in Rome, where they transferred to one bound for Naples.

It was a hot day when they arrived, but it wasn’t like the pounding dry heat of Santorini or Athens.  Naples was drowning in a thick, humid heat that sweating did nothing to help because there was no wind to make it evaporate.  Locals didn’t seem to mind, but the tourists walked around fanning themselves, their faces red and glistening from exertion.  Shops selling bottled water and gelato did very brisk business.

They reached Naples late in the afternoon, and as the train entered the city they could see a cruise ship in port.  Nat caught Clint peering at it, trying to figure out whether it was a familiar one.

“It’s not,” she said.  “Wrong company.  See the logo on the superstructure?”

Clint nodded and looked back down at the screen of his phone.  He’d just typed in the question would you like anything from Naples?  A flashing icon suggested that Laura Francis, back home in Nottinghamshire, was typing her reply.

“What are you looking for?” asked Sam.

“I don’t know yet,” said Clint.  “She hasn’t answered.”

“No,” Sam said, “I mean, why were you looking at the boat?”

“He thinks the Scorpio II is following us,” said Nat.

Clint shook his head.  “Next time we are definitely doing this on a cruise ship,” he said.  “If I’m going to hop from island to island around the Mediterranean without ever having time to stop and see anything, I’m gonna do it with room service.”

“Foot massages,” said Sharon.

“Wi-fi,” said Natasha.

“Cold beer,” Jim agreed.

“That’s it.”  Sharon nodded.  “When we get back, we’re telling Fury and the Queen that from now on we only travel by cruise ship.”

Nat grinned as she imagined that conversation.  Fury would roll his eye, fully aware that they were joking and determined not to dignify it with an acknowledgement.  The Queen, on the other hand, might just take them seriously.  She spent her own vacations in Monte Carlo and a series of palaces, so why not?

Clint’s phone vibrated.  He took a look.  “Oh, great,” he groaned.

“What’s it say?” asked Nat.

He turned the phone around to show them.  Laura’s reply said simply, surprise me.

Sam whistled.  “You’re being tested now, my man,” he declared.

“I know,” Clint said.  “And I don’t think one of those glitter-covered panda figures is going to do it.”

The moment they stepped out of Napoli Centrale, they were bombarded by vendors offering them tours and trinkets.  Nat kept her head down and tried not to make eye contact, but she did have to look where she was going and the Neapolitans were happy to follow the group out into the street.  Brochures, maps, hats, and sunglasses were all thrust into her face in quick succession, and it was very difficult to keep a hold on the instinct telling her to throw these people across the road.

“I have changed my mind,” Sir Stephen announced, as they shooed the last of them away.

“About what?” asked Sharon.

“About whether this is like going on pilgrimage,” he said, and turned to wave away a man offering tour tickets.  “No, thank you, Sir, we do not want to visit Positano!”  Returning his attention to Sharon, he went on: “this is exactly the sort of thing that greets a pilgrim in Canterbury.”

“Canterbury didn’t become a place of pilgrimage until the late twelfth century,” said Natasha, but she wasn’t going to worry about it much.  Sir Stephen’s world was not one that concerned itself with historical accuracy.

From the city, there was a clear view of Mount Vesuvius.  Mount Etna in Sicily was surrounded by other peaks, all of which had once been exit points for the volcano but were now extinct.  Vesuvius stood alone.  From this angle only one of its two cones was visible, covered with green woods all the way to the snow line.  There hadn’t been a major eruption since 1944, leaving the vegetation plenty of time to recolonize the slopes.

Even so, the mountain looked almost exactly like how a child might draw a picture of a volcano: a steep conical hill with a crater in the top.  Nat had to wonder how the people of Pompeii and Herculaneum had ever thought this was a good place to live.  Then again, she observed, here they were nearly two thousand years later, with people still living in Naples and Sorrento.  The very reason this city was called Napoli was because it was the New City, founded after an eruption had destroyed the older one.

Volcanic soil was excellent for wine grapes.  Maybe in Italy, that was enough to make people stay.