Green Jobs for Florida

Vestina Crayton Pinellas County Extension Specialist, Urban Sustainability

With the adoption of clean energy legislation and policies, Florida will not only reap the benefits of less pollution, reduced greenhouse gas emissions and energy efficiency but also the creation of up to 78,000 jobs over the next ten years.

To discuss some of these policies and legislation, the Green Jobs for Florida delegation will be participating in the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen Denmark December 7th-18th. International leaders will be discussing the limiting of greenhouse gas emissions. These discussions are critical to creating jobs and boosting our economy. Participating in the conference are representatives from Raymond James, St. Petersburg and Hogan Law Group, Tampa who are among the 25 members of the Green Jobs for Florida delegation.

With the introduction of green jobs in the coming years, this is the perfect opportunity to educate yourself on the green economy. To help you get started, sign up for Pinellas County Extension’s Solutions in 30 Webinar Green Jobs on Wednesday, January 20, 2010, 12:15pm- 12:45pm. This presentation will describe what a green job is, what training is required, and where to apply.

For more information on this news item click here

President Obama’s Job Summit

On December 3rd, over 100 leaders from across the nation representing the business community, educational system, local governments and others met at the White House to discuss new and innovative ways to create jobs. There is still much work to be done to get people back to work even though the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a decline in the unemployment rate of 10.2 to 10. Although slight, this is one of the most encouraging reports since the economic decline in December 2007.

After the half-day workshop, although many ideas were discussed, the following six areas of opportunities were compiled and presented to the Obama Administration:

• Give employers incentives to hire
• Create green energy jobs with a “cash for caulkers” program
• Boost credit availability for small firms
• Boost infrastructure spending or aid to states
• Expanding exports
• Use the TARP fund as a pool of jobs money. (source: CSMonitor.com)

President Obama is encouraging leaders at the local level to organize forums in their own communities to discuss ways the business community can expand and create jobs. The President emphasized the need to include local academic and training institutions in these discussions. This will ensure there are resources in place to prepare individuals to fill the positions as they become available.

STEM, Science, Technology Engineering and Math, is one initiative that connects the workforce community with the educational community. Created by Workforce Florida and Enterprise Florida, this program was designed to provide students with the skills to meet the needs of some of today’s fastest growing industries such as alternative energy, aerospace engineering and information technology. “This collaboration is the right opportunity at the right time for Florida,” said Allan Bense, Vice Chairman of Enterprise Florida. “Florida’s success in the 21st Century economy will depend greatly on our ability to train, retain and retrain a ready workforce of problem solvers and innovators who are well skilled in STEM fields.”

Visit this blog frequently to receive timely information on what is happening in our community.

District Asks Homeowners to "Skip a Week" of Irrigation this Winter

The Southwest Florida Water Management District recently launched a new campaign to encourage residents who irrigate their lawns to "Skip a Week" of watering during the cooler months of December, January and February.

According to research by the University of Florida, grass doesn't need to be watered as often during the cooler months. In fact, one-half to three-quarters of an inch of water every 10–14 days is sufficient.

“Over-watering in the winter can encourage pests and disease in your lawn," said Sylvia Durell, Florida-friendly landscaping project manager. Skipping a week of watering is as easy as “off” for residents with irrigation timers. “Turn the timer to ‘off’ for the week that you want to skip, and ‘on’ for the week that you want to water,” said Durell.

Homeowners can determine when their grass needs water when:

• Grass blades are folded in half lengthwise on 30 percent of the lawn
• Grass blades are blue-gray
• Footprints remain on the lawn for several minutes after walking on it

Skipping a week of irrigation will help conserve drinking water supplies. Following the “Skip a Week” plan saves water that the public needs for other critical uses during the dry season.

In addition to entering the dry season, the region is experiencing the effects of a four-year drought. All 16 counties within the District are under one-day-per-week lawn watering restrictions through the end of February.

For more water conservation tips, information about the drought and the current water restrictions, please visit the District's web site at WaterMatters.org/skipaweek.

Florida EnergyStar Appliance Rebate Program

On May 19, 2009 Governor Crist signed House Bill 167. This bill marks a continuation of his commitment to increasing energy efficiency and stimulating the economy. House Bill 167 enables the Florida Energy and Climate Commission (FECC) to develop and manage guidelines, consistent with federal regulations, designating eligible appliances, rebate amounts and the process for issuing rebates. The rebate program will help Floridians buy appliances at discount rates, lower utility costs, and benefit Florida businesses by stimulating sales of energy-efficient appliances.

Pending final approval from the United States Department of Energy, there will be six residential appliances that qualify for Florida’s 20% ENERGY STAR Appliance Rebate Program:

• refrigerators
• freezers
• washing machines
• dish washers
• room air conditioners, and
• gas tankless water heaters

Florida’s program is anticipated to last for ten days in April 2010 and run in conjunction with Florida’s Earth Day events.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the purpose of this program?
The United States Congress approved the ENERGY STAR Appliance Rebate Program to assist consumers in replacing their old energy inefficient appliances for ones that use less energy and water. This program was funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and is designed to stimulate the economy by encouraging consumers to purchase new appliances. Purchasing new appliances will help create jobs for appliance manufacturers and retail stores. The program also encourages consumers to save energy, and to lower their monthly bills through the use of a more efficient appliance.

How much money did the State of Florida receive from the United States Department of Energy to conduct an ENERGY STAR Appliance Rebate program?
Florida received $17,585,000 to conduct the Florida ENERGY STAR Appliance Rebate program. A small portion will be used administer the program and the remaining will be used to provide consumer rebates on purchases of ENERGY STAR appliances and for incentives to recycle old appliances.

What is so special about ENERGY STAR appliances?
To qualify for the ENERGY STAR label an appliance must meet rigorous energy efficiency and water efficiency standards set by the Federal government. These appliances use less energy and less water than regular appliances and thus help the consumer save money each month on their utility bills.

Who can apply for these rebates?
Anyone residing in the state of Florida may purchase an appliance for their personal use in their home.

I own an apartment building, why can’t I qualify for these rebates?
We represent a condo association, why do we not qualify for these rebates?
The Guidance Documents provided to the state by the United States Department of Energy were very specific that the program is intended for personal use in a residence and is not to be used for commercial purchase. They believe that commercial business owners have other opportunities to save money at retailers that are not available to regular consumers.

When will the ENERGY STAR Appliance Rebate Program occur?
To qualify for the rebate the ENERGY STAR appliance must be purchased during the time period from April 16 through April 25, 2010. There are no retroactive rebates.

Am I guaranteed a rebate if I purchase an appliance during the program open period?
No guarantee of a rebate is given; appliances will be rebated on a first come first serve basis as long as the money lasts.

Why are you waiting until April 2010 to run theENERGY STAR Appliance Rebate Program?
We are waiting until April 2010 at the request of the appliance manufacturers and retail stores. Because the economy has been in a slump many manufacturers have had to cut back on production and many retailers have reduced their inventory. With every state in the United States offering this ENERGY STAR appliance rebate the manufacturers and retailers need time to ramp up production and stock the stores before the program launch date.

Why is the program only 10 days long?
Based on our nation’s experience with the Cash for Clunkers program, the retailers and manufacturers have requested we limit the time of the initial program to ensure those who really want to take advantage of this program have the opportunity to do so. If there is money left over, another smaller rebate program will be offered six months later.

Which appliances qualify for theENERGY STAR Appliance Rebate Program?
Florida will offer rebates on the following ENERGY STAR appliances: (1) Refrigerators, (2) Freezers, (3) Washing machines, (4) Dishwashers, (5) Room air conditioners, and (6) Gas tank-less hot water heaters. These six appliances were selected because they offer consumers in the state the largest energy and water savings and there are no other state rebate programs on these particular appliances.

How much of a rebate will I receive for each appliance?
The rebate will be 20% of the purchase price before taxes. The total amount of rebates and recycling fees that a residential address may receive is capped at $1,500.

How many appliances can I receive a rebate on?
Consumers may receive a rebate on the purchase of one of each type of appliance. They can receive a rebate on each appliance if they purchase 1 refrigerator, 1 washing machine, 1 dishwasher, 1 freezer, 1 room air conditioner, and 1 gas tankless water heater.

How do I apply for the rebate?
The rebate application will be a paper application to be mailed in along with the original purchase receipt.

What do I have to do to prove I purchased the appliance?

You must submit an original purchase receipt. Most stores will provide you with two receipts, one to save for warranty work and the other to use for the rebate.

Is this program like the automobile cash for clunkers where I have to turn in my old appliance?
No, you are not required to trade in your old appliance to receive the rebate, however, we strongly encourage you to do so and we will pay you an additional $75 on top of your rebate if you do. On the same rebate application there will be a section to indicate that you wish to take advantage of the recycling bonus. You must also provide evidence of having recycled your old appliance by providing a receipt from your retailer indicating that they will deliver your new appliance and take away your old appliance. Or you may take your old appliance to any certified landfill in the state of Florida and get a receipt from them indicating the type of appliance you are recycling, the serial number, the date it was delivered, and their signature as confirmation.

Source:

Florida Energy & Climate Comission

Florida Awarded $1.25 M Grant

Courtesy of the American Reinvestment Recovery Act 2009 (ARRA), Florida has received a grant for $1.25 million to conduct a statewide survey to identify green job opportunities. Once this information is compiled, the jobs will be listed on Florida’s online job bank Web site. This is just one of the many ways the stimulus dollars will be used to move Florida toward being more sustainable. Click here for more details on this story.

For more information about what is happening with ‘green’ jobs locally, register for the Green Job Market in Pinellas County Webinar at www.pinellascountyextension.org.

Pinellas Green Business Partnership: Writing Your Green Policy

Mary Campbell, Extension Director and Urban Sustainability Agent

It is an exciting time for green businesses. Green building is on the rise, the auto industry is racing to produce electric cars and major corporations are starting to assess the environmental impacts of their products and operations. Businesses are setting goals on waste reduction- Wal-Mart pledges to reduce global plastic shopping bag waste by an average of 33% per store by 2013; use of alternative energy is on the rise and businesses are tracking their carbon footprint.
Greenbiz.com does an annual report on green business efforts and the progress towards more sustainable business models. The report provides some optimism, but also indicates we have a long way to go. For businesses that are working to be greener, there can be many benefits, such as attracting customers, reducing costs, and providing healthier working conditions for employees. So how does a business move forward on a plan to be green? There needs to be a long-range view of the overall mission for the business. Some businesses are creating positions for a Sustainability Coordinator that can be a point person to move the effort forward and provide resources. St. Petersburg College offers a degree program in Sustainability Management. If a new position is not created, companies are forming employee teams to promote activities like recycling, waste reduction, green purchasing and energy conservation.

A good place to start is by writing a company environmental policy statement. This statement is a set of goals that helps a company put its commitment into practice. Sound environmental policies can reduce overhead and be a valuable tool in efficiency. A policy statement should be developed with the participation of employees and include legal compliance, product stewardship, continual improvement and involvement with employees and customers.

To support local efforts for businesses to go green and provide recognition to companies that meet specific criteria, Pinellas County Extension has developed a Green Business Partnership assessment. Over the next few months, a series of articles will outline that program and how any business can begin the exciting process of being a green business. The new website provides information and resources.
Sign up for the Introduction to the Green Business Partnership, December 15, 2009 to learn more: www.pinellascountyextension.org On Line Registration
Resources:
Walmart’s Sustainability Efforts

State of Green Business 2009

St. Petersburg College Bachelor of Applied Science in Sustainability Management

Business.gov Green Business Guide

Business.gov Environmental Planning

Pinellas County Extension’s Green Business Partnership

Developing an Environmental Policy Statement

Florida Climate Change Action Plans

Mary Campbell, Extension Director and Urban Sustainability Agent

Many communities in Florida have already taken the positive step of developing actions plans to curb greenhouse gas emissions. As we know, these greenhouse gases that come from the burning of fossil fuels for transportation and energy are impacting our environment by changing our atmosphere, which is in turn changing our climate. Scientists now agree with a 90% certainty that these human processes are a contributor to the environmental changes we are now experiencing (warmer atmospheric and ocean temperatures, changes in rainfall, sea level rise, movement of pests and diseases).

Climate Change Action plans usually consist of the following:

1. Calculating the emissions of greenhouse gases (baseline) for a business or operation.
2. Setting a target for reduction of gases.
3. Developing a plan for how that target will be reached.
4. Tracking and monitoring the success of the program.

Here are a few of the action plans that will help Florida reduce greenhouse gas emissions:

State of Florida Energy and Climate Change Action Plan

Florida COOL CITIES Programs

Orange County Climate Change Plan

City of Miami Climate Action Plan

Join us for an online Climate Change Webinar Tuesday, November 17

The Basics of Climate Change

We can all do our part through energy conservation, recycling and other green practices:

Take the Pledge!

UF Extension Service Launches New Statewide Energy-Conservation Campaign

GAINESVILLE, FLA. --- As more consumers struggle with record-breaking energy costs and rapid urban growth puts a strain on Florida’s natural resources, the University of Florida’s Extension service's new public awareness campaign promotes the effective use of energy and discourages all forms of energy waste.

Initiated by UF’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS), the statewide campaign--aimed at the state’s current and future residents--kicked off April 22, 2008, during the annual Earth Day event.

"Everyone is concerned about soaring energy costs and water conservation, but the problem is more challenging here in Florida because our population continues to increase by more than eight hundred residents every day," said Pierce Jones, director of UF’s Program for Resource Efficient Communities. "That kind of growth--along with the needs of our existing population for energy and water--is taking a tremendous toll on the state’s natural resources."
The UF Extension service is developing a catalogue of fact sheets on energy efficiency, water conservation, and environmental protection for homeowners. The first set of documents in the "Energy Efficient Homes" series--Air Conditioning, Ceiling Fans, and The Duct System--were released on April 22, 2008.

Additional publications on topics such as lighting, insulation, water heaters, irrigation, climate change, and reducing the "carbon footprint" will be released by UF Extension over the next two months. For more information about energy efficiency, conservation, and sustainability, see the Sustainable Living section of SolutionsForYourLife.com.

Jones--who is working with the Florida Energy Office to develop the information campaign--said many residents come from states with different climates and ecosystems, and they may not be aware of Florida’s fragile environment. "Much of the damage to the state’s natural resources is due to a simple lack of awareness about our ecosystems and how homes interact with the environment," he said. "There are many ways that people can save energy and water in their homes and landscapes, which will help not only the state’s natural resources, but their own economic situations as well."

Jones said UF’s Program for Resource Efficiency Communities was established in 2004 to promote adoption of the best design, construction and management practices that measurably reduce energy and water consumption as well as environmental degradation in new residential developments.
After years as the nation’s fourth-largest state, Florida is poised to become the nation’s third largest state--after California and Texas--sometime in the next few years, underscoring the urgent need for energy and water conservation now, he said.

Adapted from:
UF Extension Service launches new statewide energy-conservation campaign, UF/IFAS News (4/2008).

Written by:
Chuck Woods, (352) 392-0400, cwoods@ufl.edu

Source:
Pierce Jones, (352) 392-8074, piercejones@ufl.edu

Green Jobs

Vestina F. Crayton, Pinellas County Extension Specialist, Urban Sustainability.

What exactly is a ‘green’ job? There has been much debate about this question. Workforce Florida, Inc. defines a green job as ‘” a green job increases the conservation and sustainability of natural resources for the benefit of Floridians. This includes jobs that reduce energy usage or lower carbon emissions, and protect Florida’s natural resources. Green jobs should provide worker-friendly conditions, pay sustainable wages and offer opportunities for continued skill training and career growth.”

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 was created and nearly 800 billion dollars were allocated to help reenergize the economy and to support the need for our nation to become more sustainable.

Employers are diligently working to secure funds from these stimulus dollars to create jobs as well as design and implement training programs that will develop and enhance the skills of existing employees in targeted industries such as energy efficiency and renewable energy.

To learn more about the ‘green’ job industry, such as where are the stimulus dollars going, what jobs are being created, what training is required, and what the experts are saying about the employment forecast for this industry, register for the “Green Jobs” Webinar on Thursday, October 22, from 12:15 pm – 12:45 pm.

USGBC Florida Gulfcoast Chapter Green Living Expo

Join us on October 24th for the US Green Building Coalition's Green Living Expo.

Presented by the USGBC, St. Petersburg College, Progress Energy and the Science Center of Pinellas, this Expo will feature speakers on topics related to living green.

This event will be held at the Science Center of Pinellas, located at 7701 22nd Avenue North, St. Petersburg , FL 33710 Phone: (727) 384-0027 (click here for map) from 10:00 - 3:00

Throughout the day, various educational sessions will be held. These 30-minute mini-classes will provide information from local experts on a variety of topics. Here is the program:

Session Start	Topic	Presenter
10:00	Florida’s Future; Climate Change and Coastal Communities	Mary Campbell UF/IFAS Pinellas County Extension
10:30	Home Energy Savings and Financial Incentives	James Stevenson UF/IFAS Pinellas County Extension
11:00	It’s Not Just About the Environment	Vestina F. Crayton UF/IFAS Pinellas County Extension
11:00	Energy Efficiency	Steve Masi Progress Energy
11:30	Greening your home’s interior	Darren Brinkly Real Building
11:30	Rain Harvesting	Wilma Holley UF/IFAS Pinellas County Extension
12:30	Wading through the Mire(Tax credits and Incentives	Deborah Cerminaro Eldridge, Esq. St. Petersburg College
1:00	Rainwater Harvesting	Brian Gregson Rainwater Services
1:00	Cleaning Your Way to a Greener Life	Sarahpage Bauguss Babygirl Products
1:30	Micro-Irrigation & Greening your home’s exterior	Jo Reese Mister Landscaper
2:00	Saving Your Health and Your Planet With Your Purchases.	Mary Ann Bowie, FAICP Eco Trans Alliance

In addition to the educational sessions, local middle-school students will be displaying Sustainability Projects on: Personal Carbon Footprint Reduction, Carbon Sequestration, Water Conservation, Composting and Energy Conservation.

For more information, contact Deborah Eldridge (727) 341-3092 email: Eldridge.Deborah@spcollege.edu

Green Funds Available, But Hurry!

Construction & Alternative Energy (Green): Funding To Promote Career Ladder, Business Retention & Skills Upgrade Training For Employed Workers

Deadline: Ongoing Until Funds Obligated Or Oct 15, 2009

WorkNet Pinellas, Inc. is requesting sealed proposals from qualified construction and alternative energy (green) employers for the provision of training for their existing workforce. WorkNet’s Employed/ Incumbent Worker Training programs are designed to assist employees in developing higher skills and receiving increased wages along with promoting business retention for existing Pinellas County businesses.

Download RFP
Construction & Alternative Energy RFP

Contact email: kdailey@worknetpinellas.org

Packaging Matters

Mary Campbell, Pinellas County Extension Director, Urban Sustainability Agent

Did you know that up to one out of every $11 you spend at the store pays for packaging? Also, when all packaging is accounted for, it adds up to about one-third of all the trash that's thrown away in the United States. By shopping carefully you can reduce excess packaging that you would throw away. Packaging protects products from contamination, damage during shipping and provides detailed product information. Some products need packaging that is tamper-evident and child-resistant. But is all packaging necessary?

Manufacturers are responding to pressures to reduce packaging or make a product more "environmentally-friendly," but you still pay for packaging every time you purchase a product. If this concerns you, there are ways you can reduce costs and waste. Not every strategy will fit every lifestyle, but you should be able to find one or more ideas to use from the following suggestions. Keep track of what you save each time by making smart packaging choices when you shop. It may not seem like much at first, but within several months you'll see a difference.

When practical, buy in bulk.
Choose reusable or recyclable packages.
Avoid excessive packaging.
Pay for the product, not the package.

When you shop, you can use strategies to reduce unwanted packaging. You can buy products in large sizes or in bulk quantities. You can select products with packaging that can be recycled or reused. You can purchase products that don't have excessive packaging and get more of the product for the price you pay. And you can "personalize" smart shopping strategies to your own lifestyle and family needs. Shopping with packaging options in mind can make a difference for natural resource conservation and at the check-out counter.

And always remember – take reusable bags to the store! Take the Pledge and be part of the over 500 people in Pinellas County who have pledge to reduce the use of plastic bags.
Click here to make your commitment!


Resource:
Consumer Choices can Reduce Packaging Waste

Is it Working?

New information has been released from the US Department of Energy on the consumption of energy in the United States over the past year. The results are certainly worth pondering and are certainly due to a combination of a variety of factors, but the net results show a DECREASE in energy usage overall.

Energy consumption is generally measured by the amount of energy produced by the various providers throughout the country. The net generation in the US dropped overall by 6.8 percent between June 2008 and June 2009.

Consumption of coal for power generation was down 11.8 percent this June compared to last.

Despite this, the average retail price of electricity for June 2009 was 1.0 percent lower than the same time last year.

Of course there are many factors involved in these statistics, which only show a snapshot of the bigger picture of energy consumption in our country. But wouldn’t it be great to think that as more and more of our citizens become re-aware of the literal value of electricity, that we once again are beginning to conserve it, rather than squander it away?

Pinellas County Extension is involved in the development of an Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy for our county. Once this strategy has been completed we will be eligible for more of the ARRA (stimulus) funds to implement energy conservation measures throughout the county.

Pinellas County Extension plans on using some of the funds to develop an educational program that will provide citizens not only information about energy conservation in the home, but actual materials to make those changes.

There will be more on this later, but we just thought we’d give you a heads-up to stay tuned!

Reference:
US Energy Information Adminsitration

Healthy Home, Healthy Family Workshop Sniffs Out Indoor Air Problems with Help from Local Experts

Wonder if there’s something foul floating in the air at home? If indoor space seems stagnant, has odors, high humidity or if mold is found, a Healthy Home, Healthy Family Workshop will help citizens identify problems, their sources and solutions.

The two-hour information-packed workshop is set for Saturday, Sept. 12, from 10 a.m. to noon at Pinellas County Extension in Largo. Extension is teaming up with experts from the Pinellas County Health Department and HealthyHome.com, Inc. in St. Petersburg to present the workshop. The cost is $15 per person, and pre-registration is required by Friday, Sept. 11.

Here are a few special opportunities surrounding the new workshop:

The first 20 pre-registered citizens arriving at the workshop will receive a voucher from the Pinellas County Health Department for one free indoor air quality sampling. The voucher includes a tape lift sampling, coordinated through the Health Department, which will reveal known triggers of respiratory ailments in the home. Typically, the sampling and interpretation cost $25. This is a rare free offering for citizens who pre-register and show up early.

Participants can bring common household cleaning products to the workshop. Those products will be analyzed for free for the level of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted when products are used.

Participants can bring to the workshop bed pillows or linens to be tested for particle emissions. This may be of special interest for asthmatics.

At the workshop, citizens explore how the indoor air quality of homes impacts everyone’s health. They will learn where pollutants come from, how their lives are affected and how to make homes healthier places. After all, the EPA says that most indoor air qualifies as being more polluted than the air outdoors in the world’s most industrialized cities.

To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Sustainable Living” tab. Citizens may also call (727) 582-2100.

Extension is located at 12520 Ulmerton Road in Largo. Citizens must sign up by Friday, Sept. 11. Please note that no registration or payments will be accepted the day of the event. Be sure to register now and get in line early at the workshop for the chance to get a $25 tape lift sampling voucher free courtesy of the Pinellas County Health Department.

Microscopic photo of a dust mite courtesy of Pinellas County Health Department

Incentive Programs for Energy Efficiency

James Stevenson, Pinellas County Extension Specialist, Urban Sustainability

Raise your hand if you’d like some free money.

OK, you can put it down now. By taking simple steps to improve the energy efficiency of your home you may qualify for local and Federal incentives to help defer the cost.

Our local energy provider, Progress Energy, offers many and varied incentives. The key to unlocking them all is the Home Energy Check. This is an audit of your home’s bit and pieces that contribute to energy demands. The resulting report is the baseline for efficiency improvements.

The Home Energy Check can be done online as a self-assessment, through a telephone conversation with a Progress Energy Representative, or an in-person walkthrough.

After completing the Home Energy Check, there are several inspections that can lead to cash incentives. One is a Duct Test, for this a Progress Energy certified contractor inspects your attic ductwork for leaks, breaks, etc. (a chilly attic in summer is usually a good sign that there is a leak somewhere…)

Following the Duct Test, if a repair is needed, the cost of that repair can be offset by as much as $150—a gift from your energy provider!

There are other Progress Energy incentives, including a Heat Pump Check/Repair, Insulation Check and Replacement, Window/Skylight/Door Replacement and even cash towards replacing an inefficient roof with a more reflective type. Please note that these inspections will only qualify for incentives if a Home Energy Check is completed first.

Federal incentives, combined with local incentives make taking that step toward energy-efficiency retrofits even more appealing. Some Federal incentives cover at least 30% of the cost of the project, some max out at $1500, and for others there is NO upper limit. Make sure you read the fine print some only cover installing the changes, while others cover installation and the cost of materials, and other just the cost of materials.

The Federal incentives are paid in the form of tax credits. Not, cash in hand. A draft of the IRS form for filing to claim your credits can be found here.

We are offering a free, 30-minute webinar on this subject that delves a bit deeper into these topics.

Join us on Wednesday, August 26 and/or Wednesday, September 2nd for “Solutions in 30 – Financial Incentives for Home Energy Savings” from 12:15-12:45. To register for this live presentation, visit pinellascountyextension.org, click the ‘Online Registration' button and follow that link to the “Solutions in 30” tab.

Reference: Energy Efficient Homes: Incentive Programs for Energy Efficiency

Don't Let the Sun Set on this Class!

Solar energy is Florida’s most abundant domestic energy resource. Citizens can join local energy leaders and learn how to make good use of this free and renewable energy source that surrounds Pinellas County in sunshine.

Solar Power in the Sunshine State – Combining Free Solar Energy with Other Techniques for High Efficiency workshop is planned for Saturday, Aug. 22, at Pinellas County Extension in Largo. The information powerhouse workshop takes place from 9 a.m. to noon and costs $15 per person. Registration is required by Friday, Aug. 21, as space is limited.

The workshop kicks off with local businesses displaying products and services available to homeowners. Lecturers include Progress Energy specialists who will provide information on incentives and programs that are aimed at improving energy efficiency and getting citizens the most value for their money. Solar Source Institute representatives will reveal the many solar options available. They will also talk about how to take advantage of benefits in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (Stimulus) to help get citizens on the road to energy efficiency. A question and answer period rounds out the morning.

To register, visit pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then the “Sustainable Living” tab. Citizens may also call (727) 582-2100. Extension is located at 12520 Ulmerton Road in Largo

Pinellas County Small Business Lending Fair

Pinellas County Small Business Lending Fair

September 24, 2009 from 12:00 noon - 2:00 p.m.

at the EpiCenter, 13805 58th Street North, Clearwater, Convention & Meeting Room 1-453

Hosted by the Pinellas County Business Development Center & Gulf Coast Business Finance

Featuring exhibits by over 25 business lenders, this event offers entrepreneurs and business owners the opportunity to discuss their needs with loan officers or just browse among the many lending options available for business growth and expansion. A buffet lunch will be provided by Gulf Coast Business Finance.

Advanced registration is preferred, but walk-ins are welcome. Please register online at pced.org/calendar, by email at businesshelp@pced.org or by phone at (727) 453-7200.

“The Lending Fair was a terrific experience.
With so many lenders in one place, it was easy
to shop for the option that worked best for us.”
- Sean Dorisinski,
Dorisinski Campbell Design Associates

How To: Save Money, Go Green I: Air Conditioning

James Stevenson, Pinellas County Extension Specialist, Urban Sustainability

The summer air is buzzing with the sound of cicadas, signaling that we are well-into the sultry days. The air is also buzzing with the sound of a million air conditioning units, doing their best to keep us cool and collected in our homes and businesses.

It should be no surprise that in Florida air conditioning (AC) consumes more energy than any other electrical appliance. In fact, AC accounts for 40% of your monthly energy bill.

Would you like to see your energy bill shrink? There are three ways to cut costs that are easy, affordable and can make a BIG difference.

Start by making sure your AC unit is working at its utmost efficiency level. An annual inspection and cleaning of both the indoor (air handler) coil and outdoor (condenser) coil. Dirt and debris make these gizmos work harder and draw on more energy.

Check your refrigerant charge. The “blood” of your system has to be maintained at a certain pressure. Higher or lower can cause problems (this requires a professional inspection.)

Reduce the cooling load to the structure by providing shade or drawing blinds on east and west-facing windows.

Don’t invite trouble! Keep doors and windows shut tightly.

Use ceiling fans, but use them wisely. In summer ceiling fans work best when operated in a counter-clockwise rotating position. Ceiling fans work by making inhabitants FEEL cooler. They do not actually COOL a room; only run them when the room is occupied. In fact, ceiling fans can make the room feel 4 degrees F cooler.

Consider upping the setting on your system. 76 degrees F is the “sweet-spot” where the most energy is conserved, comfort is not sacrificed and mold/mildew is not encouraged.

Finally, consider installing a programmable thermostat. These inexpensive devices can save you hundreds of dollars a year. Simple to use, you can control the times of operation with as many settings as you wish (depending on the model.) We recommend using a model that has been certified by Energy Star® as evidenced by carrying its distinctive logo.

OK, here is your list of things-to-do, we will be contacting you in a month’s time to see if you made any of these changes in your home/office. Everyone saving just a little energy will add-up to a huge impact now and for the future. But in the meantime, you might just like those few extra dollars in your pocket!!

Build Stronger Families with 4-H Teening-Up Workshop

Families with teenagers have their own set of unique challenges to deal with on the home front. To help families with youth ages 11 to 17 tackle these issues, Pinellas County Extension 4-H Youth Development is holding a two-day Family Teening-Up Workshop to help build stronger relationships. Parents, caregivers and youth should plan on attending both days of the workshop together.

The workshop is planned for Saturday, Aug. 8, and Saturday, August 15, and will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on both days. It will be held at Pinellas County Extension centrally located at 12520 Ulmerton Road in Largo.

The workshop is a group learning program to help parents, caregivers and teens learn about and understand the normal development of teenagers and improve their family communication. Practical information and resources with hands-on learning activities to enhance family relationships will be shared.

Saturday, Aug. 8, Day One provides practical information and resources with hands-on learning activities that can enhance the family relationship while focusing on the teen brain, transitions in adolescence and positive discipline.

Saturday, Aug. 15, Day Two targets talking with teens about issues that affect their daily lives, understanding teen anger while managing yours and empowering teens to build assets. Families must attend Day One of the workshop to be eligible for this one.

Families receive a Family Resource Binder complete with all program information to take home. The cost for the two-day workshop and materials is $50 per family.

Registration is required for this 4-H Family Teening-Up Workshop. To register, visit www.pinellascountyextension.org, click on the “Online Class Registration” button and then click on the “Family Programs” tab. Citizens may also call (727) 582-2450 to register. Please be sure to register before Saturday, Aug. 1.

Please note that this program is not designed to offer therapy or other services for teens and families with more serious problems. For services available in Pinellas County, please call Tampa Bay Cares at 211 or visit www.211tampabay.org for more in-depth information.

Green Travel Made Easy

James Stevenson, Pinellas County Extension Specialist, Urban Sustainability

Have you had enough yet? Ready to get out of Dodge? If you are “Leaving on a Jet Plane….” this summer, it is possible to “offset” the carbon cost of your journey with the help of some of the largest travel companies.

Ofsetting refers to projects that compensate for emissions by providing for “sinks” that will absorb the equivalent amount of carbon. Many of these projects involve funding re-forestation projects, both domestically and abroad, with the majority in developing countries.

Check out Expedia’s “traveler’s guide to going green” Travelocity has partnered-up with TerraPass who offer bundles that fund clean energy production, methane mitigation strategies for farmers and landfill gas capture. These offsets are only a few dollars and can be added to the price of your ticket with one quick click.

Orbitz has engaged Carbonfund.org and offers links and information at their microsite, eco.orbitz.com. From there, you can purchase offsets for both domestic and international flights (a flat-fee for each.) According to their website, Carbonfund.org makes it easy and affordable for everyone to offset their carbon footprint with high-quality, 3^rd party verified renewable energy, energy efficiency and reforestation projects.”

Travelocity offers access to GoZero carbon emission offsets through their “travel for good” program. This program not only helps travelers offset carbon emissions, but also offers access to socially-responsible travel options and options that support our domestic economy. Don’t forget, being green is not JUST about the environment!

We’d love to hear about your green travel adventures this summer. Either use the “comment” option below or send us an email to sustainability@pinellascounty.org and we’ll post a selection in the coming months. Enjoy your green trip!

Green Business Practices

Mary Campbell, Urban Sustainability Agent, Pinellas County Extension

Becoming a more environmentally- friendly business is a choice that can reap big rewards. Green Business practices can help save money, attract customers, enhance your reputation and help make a business more efficient. A company policy of environmental stewardship or mission that includes sustainable practices will help create the vision. There are three main areas where a business can become more green and sustainable:

Improve energy efficiency and water conservation
Changes in work practices
Recycling and waste reduction

Improve Energy Efficiency and Water conservation
There are simple ways to reduce energy and water use and save money at the same time. An energy audit can be done by Progress Energy to review where there may be easy impacts to reduce energy use, as well as long-term investments for the future.

Implement staff guidelines for turning off computers, peripherals, as well as office and meeting room lights. Water conservation in outdoor landscapes can save thousands of gallons of water each year (see Florida Yards and Neighborhoods ).

Changes in Work Practices
To become a green business, employees need to be a part of the practice changes that will make it successful. Creating a green committee that promotes these new practices will be a good start, as well as educational programs for staff. Discussing green purchasing practices, energy conservation, double- sided copying, green meetings , reduction of paper use through electronic sharing, telecommuting and other innovative sustainable practices will help the team get started. Start small and build on these practice changes gradually until they become habits. Develop a staff pledge program and rewards around the new practices (take the Check Your Green Commitment At Work Pledge to get started).

Recycling and Waste Reduction
Reducing waste in an office can make a positive impact on the bottom line as well as reduce your carbon footprint. Get a waste assessment to determine strategies and options from Pinellas County Utilities Solid Waste.

Develop an Action Plan

1. Evaluate environmental programs that fit well with your vision and mission.
2. Communicate your environmental initiatives to customers and staff.
3. Report successes and get feedback.

Resources:
Ten Steps to Green Business Practices

Keeping Your Family Healthy Room by Room

Vestina F. Crayton, Pinellas County Extension Specialist, Urban Sustainability.

Your family’s health is a top priority for most. One way to keep your family healthy is by understanding and managing the sources that affect their indoor air quality. Since the average person spends approximately 90% of their time indoors, it is important to take a closer look at the areas or items that may compromise the quality of your indoor air environment. Depending on the level of exposure to certain indoor air pollutants, acute or chronic health concerns can occur that may range from mild eye irritation to death. Research has shown that air pollutants indoors can be greater than those found outdoors.

This chart highlights some of the common indoor air pollutants, associated health effects and control measures (reactions vary from person to person)

Indoor Air Pollutant	Health Impacts	Control Measures
Mold	Sneezing, Coughing, Asthma	Keep house cool, dry and clean
Carbon Monoxide	Symptoms similar to flu: nausea dizziness; brain damage	Install a CO alarm
Lead	Slows physical, behavioral, and learning development	If your house was built in 1978 or earlier have it tested by a professional
Radon Gas	Lung Cancer	Have house tested Call 1-800-SOS-Radon
Asbestos	High levels can cause lung problems	Consult a professional for testing, repair and removal
Tobacco Smoking	Second hand smoke increase the risk of disease and death in children and non-smokers	Eliminate or reduce exposure
Formaldehyde	Watery, burning eyes, breathing problems	Eliminate or reduce exposure to pressed-wood products
Volatile Organic Compounds	Dizziness nausea; neurological and reproductive disorders	Follow the instructions on proper use and store appropriately
Pesticides	Dizziness nausea; neurological and reproductive disorders	Follow the instructions on proper use and store appropriately

Take a tour through the US Environmental Protection Agency virtual home to learn about some of the most common sources of indoor air pollutants.

If you would like to test the levels of indoor air pollutants in your home, contact your local health department.

For more in-depth information about how to minimize indoor air toxins to create a healthier indoor environment, Pinellas County Extension will be offering a Healthy, Home, Healthy Family seminar September 12, 2009. Please check back for more details and to register at Pinellas County Extension.

References

Hyun-Jeong Lee, Audrey Norman, “My Florida Home Book 2.2: Keeping Your Home Healthy”FCS3294

United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Web site 

Join us for a Webinar on June 11

This is an introductory program on the basic facts about climate change. Scientists now show evidence of ongoing impacts such as sea level rise, warming of the oceans and air, and changes to our environment. Learn about impacts to Florida and our coastal regions.

Title:  The Basics of Climate Change

Date:  Thursday, June 11, 2009

Time:  12:00 PM - 1:00 PM EDT 

After registering you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the Webinar. 

System Requirements
PC-based attendees
Required: Windows® 2000, XP Home, XP Pro, 2003 Server, Vista 

Macintosh®-based attendees
Required: Mac OS® X 10.4 (Tiger®) or newer 

Space is limited.
Reserve your Webinar seat now at:

https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/646458202

Marine Agent Offers Information for Pinellas County Residents

Mary Campbell, Pinellas County Extension Director, Urban Sustainability Agent

As summer provides more opportunities to enjoy our beaches and waterways, Extension has valuable information available to residents to promote safe and environmentally-friendly ways to enjoy the marine environment.

A big part of the quality of life we enjoy is through our water-related activities that are provided by the 588 miles of coastline around Pinellas County.  Boating, swimming, bird watching, fishing and enjoying the beach are all a part of the recreational opportunities available. 

Through the Sea Grant Marine Extension program, information is available on a variety of topics to help us protect our marine environment and stay up to date on various programs and policies related to protecting this resource.

Pinellas County Extension utilizes the expertise of the Marine Agent located in Manatee County, our neighbor to the south. John Stevely is the Sea Grant Marine Agent in Manatee County and he is available to provide the latest information on marine issues. Access to his newsletter, the Marine Scene, is now available from the Pinellas County Extension website and his webpage is available to provide a variety of resources. 

Florida Sea Grant uses research, education and extension to create a sustainable coastal economy and environment.

Whether you are an avid fisherman or enjoy kayaking, Sea Grant has information that supports our marine resources and helps to make sure this resource is around for future generations to enjoy.

Email Mr. Stevely using the link above or visit Manatee County Extension to learn more.

Emergency Energy Assistance Available For Seniors

Pinellas County Health and Human Services Department provides emergency energy assistance of up to $600 to senior citizens unable to pay their power bills. 

Funds from the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco/Pinellas Inc. can help residents age 60 and older who are in danger of having their power disconnected during the designated cooling and heating seasons when demand and bills are higher than normal. 

Eligible seniors must have a crisis with a delinquent notice from the utility company or a notice that power has been shut off to be considered for help. They may also qualify to receive repairs to a cooling unit or a voucher for fans, heaters and blankets. Applications are now being accepted. 

Eligible seniors can receive help up to twice a year during each high-demand season. Health and Human Services staff members screen applicants to determine if they meet income limits. The income limit is 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guideline. For a household of one, the limit is $16,245 a year. For two people, the income limit is $21,855 (add $5,610 for each additional member of family units with more than eight members.) 

Prospective clients can either stop by a Health and Human Services office or call for 

an appointment and information.  Call or email Annie Shaw at (727) 464-8400 in Clearwater or Ann Eicher at (727) 582-7781 in St. Petersburg.  Health and Human Services offices are located at 2189 Cleveland St., Suite 230, Clearwater and at 647 First Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 

Assistance is provided without discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, age, disability, religion or national origin. 

This program is funded by Area Agency on Aging of Pasco/Pinellas, Inc. 

Pinellas County Health and Human Services

Area Agency on Aging

 

OOPS! What to Do With a Broken Compact Fluorescent Light

James Stevenson, Pinellas County Extension Specialist, Urban Sustainability

A broken CFL has the capacity to release the small amount of mercury contained within it in the form of a gas. Should you accidentally drop a CFL, follow the EPA’s “Cleanup and Disposal Guidelines for Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs – June 2008” linked below.

First and foremost, as soon as the break happens, clear out. Get pets and people away from the area and shut off the AC or heat. Open a window or windows if possible and allow at least 15 minutes for ventilation to occur.

If the break occurs on a hard surface, use stiff cardboard to scoop-up fragments (don’t sweep—this can cause bits to go airborne—or vacuum) and place in a glass jar or a sealed plastic bag. Use strong tape such as fibrous duct tape to collect the rest of the glass fragments and powder. Finally use a damp cloth to clean the area. Place all the items used during the clean-up process into the glass jar or sealed plastic bag being used for collection.

If the break occurs on carpeting or a rug, carefully collect fragments and place them in a jar or plastic bag, and use strong tape for the tiny bits. If you choose to vacuum, dispose of the vacuum bag or canister contents in the jar or plastic bag. It is important to ventilate the room where the break occurred for the next several times you vacuum.

Now that you’ve got your jar/bag of hazardous waste, what to do next? In Pinellas County, “We want people to bring broken bulbs and associated cleanup materials to HEC3 (Pinellas County Solid Waste), not put them in the regular trash,” says Andy Fairbanks, Waste Reduction Program Supervisor, Pinellas County Utilities Solid Waste Operations.

See links below for more information. Hey, accidents happen. The good news is CFLs do not need to be handled very often (only seven years in some cases!), so the odds of a mishap are greatly reduced.

Cleanup and Disposal Guidelines For Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) June 2008

Information on Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) and Mercury
July 2008

Pinellas County Household Electronics & Chemical Collection Center