The Popularity Of Natural Perfume

Natural perfume, also known as botanical perfume, is the name given to any perfume that contains only natural ingredients. This means that the product does not contain artificial ingredients of any kind. The idea behind this product is that it is kinder to the skin and to the environment.

Modern living and political outlooks have paved the way for the natural perfume to become increasingly popular. However, the idea of it has always been around, and until the 1800s when synthetic materials were created, natural perfume was the only option. The synthetics were a breakthrough in modern science, and offered a valuable commodity for perfume makers. It enabled the product to have a longer shelf life and could also create more effects and blends.

Synthetic perfume is still excellent quality, but there is a modern trend for trying to recapture the essence of all things natural; and this includes with perfume. Botanical perfume is created from raw organics and rare aromatics, with natural extraction processes used. The aromatics are obtained through tincturing, enfleurage, infusion and distillation, and then added to a combination of carrier oil and water or a natural alcohol base. These bases are less severe than their synthetic counterparts and so it is less likely to cause an allergic reaction.

Allergies are a common reason why people are turning to botanical perfume. The high levels of pollution have made many people more sensitive and intolerant to many chemicals that would previously have produced no adverse affect. Natural perfume ingredients are in their purest form, and so the absence of chemicals creates less irritants and skin pollutants.

Another reason for the popularity of natural perfume is that it can be used to create a signature blend. In the modern world where mass production is the norm, many people are turning to the unique and rare to recapture a sense of identity. Natural perfume enables this. Firstly, synthetic perfumes are mass produced, and so it is down to the taste of the buyer as to whether they are purchased, whereas natural perfumes can be made bespoke.

These bespoke perfumes are created in relation to the tastes of the buyer, and are available for that buyer only. Many natural perfumeries are opening across the globe, where clients can go in for a whole experience which includes answering questions about tastes to determine a particular classification such as oriental, citrus, marine or floral. Then different base scents are tested, and those liked are then combined to create a signature fragrance, usually stored on a database for future purchases.

The ingredients are also a key factor. Natural perfumes often contain rare aromatics that would be too expensive to use in mass production. Therefore, it can offer a wider variety of fragrances. Another element to consider is the concentration of the blend. Synthetic perfumes have strict concentrations of perfume per alcohol and water base, which must be adhered to. Natural perfumes can step outside of these conventions, and create a strength that suits your requirements. Certain perfume may be based upon aromatherapy and aromacology theories also, to try and help assist with mood and health.

Of course, natural perfume does have its disadvantages also. For instance, the absence of any chemical fixative in the perfume, similar to the preservatives found in food produce, means that it is evanescent or short lasting. The ingredients in botanical perfume may separate also, as they contain no chemicals that bind, but this can be resolved with a gentle shake, so not too much of a problem but worth remembering. Natural perfumes are generally inexpensive and a pleasant change from the norm. Ultimately, however, they need to suit your requirements and needs; so weight the pros and cons and make an informed choice before purchasing.

About the Author

This article can be accessed in portuguese from the Article section of page www.polomercantil.com.br/perfume-fragrancia.php
Roberto Sedycias works for www.PoloMercantil.com.br

Source: www.articopia.com

Carbon Emission Trading, The Basics Explained

 

The Kyoto Protocol is a UN-led international agreement reached in 1997 in Kyoto Japan to address the problems of climate change and the reduction greenhouse gas emissions. The Kyoto Protocol went into force on February 2005.

Signatory countries are committed to moving away from fossil fuel energy sources - oil, gas, and coal, to renewable sources of energy such as hydro, wind and solar power, and to less environmentally harmful ways of burning fossil fuels. Greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide are mainly generated by burning fossil fuels. Higher levels of greenhouse gas emissions cause global warming and climate change.

The Protocol commits 38 industrialized countries to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 2008-2012 to overall levels that are 5.2 percent below 1990 levels. Targets for greenhouse gas emissions reduction were established for each industrialized country. Developing countries including China and India were asked to set voluntary targets for greenhouse gas emissions.

The Canadian target for Kyoto is to reduce by 2012, greenhouse gas emissions by six percent below their 1990. The United States did not ratify the Kyoto Protocol, and in February 2002 introduced the Clean Skies and Global Climate Change initiatives, in which targets for reduction in greenhouse gas emissions are linked directly to GDP and the size of the U.S. economy.

Trading of carbon emissions is linked to a program called Cap-and-Trade. Understanding this concept is necessary to begin effective trading. A central authority (usually a government or international body) sets a limit or cap on the amount of emissions discharged into the atmosphere. Companies that exceed the cap may be subject to fine or regulatory sanction. Therefore, those who find they cannot meet the conditions of the cap will look to buy credits from those who pollute less.

Many older established companies are forced to spend considerable sums of money modernizing plants. In many instances this takes time, usually years to achieve. In contrast to new generation technologies which are not faced with up-grading facilities to comply with 1990 emission standards. Trading emission credits is a way for low emission companies such as wind farms to sell credits to benefit higher emitting companies. Cap-and-trade programs ultimately aid in being a net benefit to the host country by enabling it to meet it's commitment to the Kyoto Protocol Agreement.

From the very beginning, this first phase of the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme, or EU-ETS, was intended to be a learning period to work out the kinks and entice major greenhouse gas emitters on board.

On January 1, 2005, the EU-ETS came online with the cap-and-trade program covering approximately 12,000 installations including electricity production and some heavy industry. These 27 member countries of the European Union represents roughly 45 percent of total European CO2 emissions.

Now three years later, amid a flurry of expectations and public controversy, the European Union has credible results to back up its claim of success. Recently, a Massachusetts Institute of Technology analysis of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) affirms that despite rather unstable beginnings, the system has been an unprecedented success. More importantly, it opens the door for skeptical countries like the United States to follow suit.

The United States would have been required to reduce its emissions 7 percent below 1990 levels had it accepted ratification of Kyoto. Instead, U.S. emissions have now risen more than 16 percent between 1990 and 2005.

The Bush administration and Republican lawmakers opposed to emission caps have been touting the Asia-Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate, which consists of Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, and the United States. The aim of the initiative, which began in 2005, is to foster cooperation on ways to improve clean energy development and lower emissions without global mandates. But since the initiative started, the United States, India, and China have come under increased domestic pressure to move toward mandatory emission controls. California is among several U.S. states that have entered into partnerships or passed laws for controlling greenhouse gas ahead of the federal government, leading to a showdown with congressional lawmakers. Major U.S. cities have also instituted a host of policies designed to cut greenhouse gases.

Without the United States entering into a binding commitment, it is feared that several developing countries which have not yet signed plus some Kyoto signatories may be unwilling to agree to additional international commitments.

About the Author

Dwayne Strocen is a registered Commodity Trading Advisor specializing in analyzing and hedging Market and Operational Risk using exchange traded and OTC derivatives. Website: http://www.genuineCTA.com.
View in depth information about greenhouse gases and carbon emissions trading.

Source: www.articopia.com

 

Different Types of Green Jobs

There are hundreds of types of green jobs that are available. People get far too caught up on just one or two types such as alternative energy, and forget or overlook all the other green careers that are available to them. Keep your mind open and be creative! Here are just a few ideas for those of you looking for something a little different.



Conservationist

Being a conservationist means that you help the government or landowners figure out how to protect the environment. This includes keeping track of what is going into the air, water, and the ground. As a conservationist you can help raise officials' awareness of pollution in their area or how the ecological balance can be protected. You may be asked to find ways to do this in the most inexpensive way possible.

These green jobs generally require at least a Bachelor's degree. Agriculture, environmental science, natural resource management, ecology, or biology are common degrees people get if they want to get one of these green careers.



Geoscientist

Being a geoscientist is very much what it sounds like. You are a scientist who studies the earth, such as its structure, composition, physical aspects, and basically how it works. These scientists commonly help other scientists learn more about the environment, how to protect it, and how to fix what damage has been done to it. These green jobs require a Master's degree in a field such as earth science or geology.



Regional Planner


Those who have green careers as regional planners work hand in hand with developers and the community. They help communities figure out what the best ways to use space and resources is, while keeping growth and future change in mind. If you would love knowing that you helped to shape your community and make it a good place for the present and future, this would be a great job for you. A Master's degree in regional planning is generally required.



Landscape Architects

Green jobs like this also affect the community and how it is formed. They help design many important areas in the community, such as schools, parks, malls, and golf-courses. If you get a job like this, you would be responsible for making sure that the areas you work on are made to be functional and great to look at, while still being environmentally friendly.

One of the very best things about all these jobs is that they pay very well. You have to have a lot of schooling in order to be eligible for most of them, but it is well worth it. Once you have your degree, you can get a job in a field you are passionate about and be paid well for your efforts to improve the world we live in.

About the Author

For additional information on green jobs visit the Environmental portal of Wind and Solar education.

Source: www.articopia.com

Backyard Bird Watching Is A Breeze

 

One of the best places for aspiring bird watchers to get their feet wet is in their own backyard. Backyard bird watching is an inexpensive and relatively easy way to get involved in birding as a hobby. While your interest may one day carry you to far away places in search of rare species, many find that they are more than satisfied by keeping track of the local bird life and enjoying the birds that live right under their noses.

You will want to do some research on what types of feeders are best for the birds that you are hoping to attract. Several styles meet the needs of many species. Some birds, however, require a specific type of feeder. You may find it best to construct your backyard bird watching area in a way that allows you to utilize several different feeders. Make sure you research how far away from each other the feeders should be.

Another decision that you will have to make as you are beginning your hobby of backyard bird watching is what to feed them. There is a wide range of feed available. Just like the feeders, the food that you select should depend in large part on what type of birds you are hoping to attract and where you live. Some of the more common types of bird feed are sunflower seeds, cracked corn, and thistle.

Often found in a mix, pour this type of seed into a hopper type feeder to meet the needs of several different species at one backyard bird watching station. If you hope to attract some of the more fickle species, like bluebirds, then you will need to do some research on what type of fruit or nuts make up the diet of bluebirds in your area.

When you are setting up your area for backyard bird watching, you should ensure that you have good view of the feeders from the area that you anticipate using for observation. If you have any low hanging branches that may block your view, cut them away before you begin your project. If you wait until you already have a contingent of hungry customers to do so, the sudden change in environment may disrupt the feeding and behavior patterns that they have established.

Now that you are ready to begin your observations, you will find that you need some kind of magnifying device in order to see the birds better. A basic pair of binoculars is usually sufficient for beginners, though you may find it better to mount a spotting scope near a bird watching picture window in your home. These optical devices will greatly increase your ability to identify birds and to get to them by their distinct markings and behaviors.

About the Author

Mike Selvon is the owner of various niche portals. Our bird feeder portal is a great resource for more information on backyard bird watching. While you are there don't forget to claim your free gift.

Source: www.articopia.com

 

Indoor Air is 2-5 Times More Polluted than Outdoor Air! Is Yours?

It probably is. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that the air in our homes and offices is two to five times more polluted than the outdoor air. The EPA has ranked indoor air pollution as a high priority public health risk. The World Health Organization and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute have also concluded that preventing exposure to environmental allergens and irritants may help prevent asthma. If you're like most people, you spend up to 90% of your time indoors. If you can find a way to reduce airborne pollutants and allergens that you breathe, you may be able to increase your vitality and health and reduce allergies and asthma attacks.

According to the American Lung Association (ALA), air pollution in our homes can be reduced in three different ways, by controlling the source of pollution, by increasing ventilation and by cleaning the air. These are listed in their order of effectiveness, so this means that it is most important to reduce the amount of pollution you are creating or bringing into your home.

We don't always think of the following as sources of air pollution, but depending on the type of product, all of these can be significant sources of pollution and irritation in our homes: paints & varnishes, furniture, insulation and building materials (especially particle board and plywood), carpets, combustion appliances (gas heaters, stoves, etc.), smoking, cleaning and personal care products, pets, dust mites, mold and fine particulate matter from outdoor pollution and forest fires.

In order to control the sources of pollution in your home, you need to do as many of the following suggestions as possible:

Use low emission paints, varnishes, carpets and furniture, including beds, mattresses and bedding items
Use only non-toxic, natural, cleaning and personal care products
Vacuum and clean regularly to keep the level of dust mites down
Maintain low humidity in your home, by using exhaust fans or opening windows after a bath or shower
Replace wall-to-wall synthetic carpeting with tile, hardwood floors or some other natural, non-toxic, hard flooring
Service your combustion appliances regularly so as to decrease combustion emissions such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides
Get rid of combustion appliances if at all possible, especially if your are chemically sensitive
Keep doors and windows shut when outdoor pollution levels are at unhealthy levels from smog and/or forest fires
Banish your pets to the outside or garage if pet dander is troublesome

Although all of the above are excellent suggestions, it is very difficult and very expensive to control all of the sources of pollution in our homes. Building and furnishing "green" homes is definitely a wave of the future, but most people don't have a non-toxic "green" home today and don't have the money to redo their house in a totally "green" way. Also, there are some things like forest fires and smog that we don't have much day-to-day control over.

So the second suggestion to help you reduce indoor air pollution is increasing ventilation. In other words, get more fresh air into your home! Open windows and doors, turn on kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans and mechanical ventilation systems, such as the fan on your central heat and air system, if it is vented to the outside.

This biggest problem with this second suggestion is that both the weather and the outdoor pollution do not always make it feasible to bring in outside air.

Cleaning the Air

The third suggestion for reducing the pollution in your home is to use an air purification device to clean the air. Even though air cleaners by themselves are not the best solution to keeping your indoor air clean (source control is the best!), they can definitely be a part of the solution.

According to the American Lung Association, air cleaning is recognized as one of the three strategies to improve indoor air quality. It has become increasingly popular as more and more people are developing asthma, allergies and sinus problems. For example, it is estimated that over 17 million people now have asthma, and the mortality rate due to asthma has almost doubled in the past decade (according to the ALA). Air cleaning has been widely used in industrial settings to control particulates, gases and vapors, and is now increasingly being turned to for use in residential settings. However, there is a big difference in air purifiers, and the inexpensive ones simply do not do a good job of cleaning the air.

In conclusion, most of us are breathing polluted air in our homes and offices for most of the day. You can reduce this indoor air pollution by reducing the sources of pollution, by opening windows and bringing in fresh air, and by using a high quality air purifiers.

About the Author

Karen Pijuan is the owner of several health-related websites and has written numerous articles about healthy living, whole food supplements, natural weight loss and more. Find out more by visiting EcoViva or The Truth About Vitamins

Source: www.articopia.com