About The Sustainable Furniture Council

Unless you’re involved in the interior design or furniture manufacturing industry or are deeply involved in the green movement, you may not have heard of the Sustainable Furniture Council.  However, they are an organization worth getting to know.

The Sustainable Furniture Council (recently renamed the Sustainable Furnishings Council) is a non-profit group of suppliers, manufacturers, retailers, and designers formed to promote sustainable practices in their industry.  Members of the SFC believe that we’re facing dangerous global climate changes and it’s our responsibility to take action.  They believe in taking steps to minimize carbon emissions, waste stream pollutants, un-recyclable content and primary materials from unsustainable sources.

The SFC Life Cycle Assessment 

The Life Cycle Assessment, or LCA, is a system of requirements that must be met to qualify for FTC environmental marketing guides and attorney general green guides.  Meaning, you cannot say you’re environmentally friendly without having gone through a life cycle assessment to prove you are.  It’s a standardization process to make sure all claims are valid and all products are equal.

So What is a Life Cycle Assessment?

In order to obtain sustainable product certification, the LCA identifies twelve environmental benefits or impacts including:

Streamlined Life Cycle Assessment Matrix for all alternatives (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

1. Global Warming
2. Acidification
3. Ozone Depletion
4. Eutrophication, (the effect on our water supply when it receives too many nutrients from chemical fertilizers and run off)
5. Photochemical Smog
6. Human Health
7. Ecological Toxicity
8. Fossil Fuel Depletion
9. Habitat Alteration
10. Criteria Air Pollutants
11. Water Intake
12. Solid and Hazardous Waste

How does the LCA affect the SFC? 

The SFC believe that the LCA is the best method for analyzing the environmental impact of their products, which include all the materials that go into their products.  They have goals that include:

* Raising awareness of the sustainability issue
* Assisting companies in adopting good practices
* Serving as an information clearing house for sustainability
* Creating a symbol of assurance for consumers (companies and products can obtain an SFC member certification to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and environmentally-friendly practices)

The SFC really does support what they call the triple bottom line of PEOPLE - PLANET – PROFITS.  They’re leaders in the industry and are setting the standards in sustainable furniture and design manufacturing. You can find more about them on their website: http://www.sustainablefurnishings.org/

Why Global Warming & Climate Change Can and Should Impact Your Life

Global warming is defined as the warming of the earth’s temperature.  This rise in temperature is attributed to greenhouse gases.  Unfortunately, global warming involves a lot more than just a slight rise in the earth’s temperature.  For that reason, global warming is an issue that should cause you concern.

Scientific studies on climate helped establish a consensus. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

As previously stated, global warming involves a lot more than a slight rise in temperature.  Although the effects of global warming are widely debated, as many of these changes can also be attributed to other causes, our planet is changing.  In many aspects, it is changing relatively quickly. (This is partly why the term "climate change" has in many cases replaced "global warming", as it more accurately describes what is going on.)

When it comes to global warming, many individuals wonder why they should be concerned.  If you are one of those individuals, you will want to take a close look at the changes in which we are already seeing.  Many of these changes have been attributed to global warming.  For starters, we will focus on the temperatures.

In recent years, we have noticed a steady rise in temperatures.  From 2006 through 2012 in the United States, many cities and towns (and even whole states) have seen record breaking temperatures.  Many are also seeing a later arrival of winter weather.  For example, some areas are seeing snowfall later than normal.  These same areas are also experiencing fall and even summer like temperatures, when it should be freezing outside.

In keeping with the temperature changes, there is some confusion.  Although many areas of the United States have experienced record breaking temperature increases, others have not.  This is what leads to the confusion.  Since global warming focuses on the rise of temperature, many wonder why that isn’t always the case.  And here's why. Part of global warming involves instability in the atmosphere.  This instability can not only lead to higher temperatures in certain areas, but it can lead to erratic weather in other areas.

Graph summarizing some of the expected impacts of Global Warming according to IPCC. Temperature deviations from 1990 readings. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Although a rise in temperature is enough to make many people believe in global warming, many others wonder what else they can expect.  Most of us will not see the drastic and horrific affects that global warming can have on the earth.  This, however, does not mean that global warming isn’t important or that it is an issue that should be pushed aside.  Even though you may not experience the full impact of global warming, your children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren may.  So, the approach that you take to global warming should be a proactive one.

When it comes to being proactive, in terms of global warming, there is a lot that you can do.  Many experts believe that the sooner we stand united and take action, the sooner we can end the threat of global warming or at least reduce the impact of it.  Your goal, especially as a parent, should involve reducing the amount of carbon dioxide and other pollutants that you, yourself, put into the air.  The best way to do this is to take a look at your home and your vehicle.  Can you purchase energy saving items, such as a car, household appliances, or even light bulbs?  These are just a few of the many steps that you can and should take.

As outlined above, global warming is starting to really show its effects now.  Even those who debate global warming cannot avoid the changes that are occurring.  These changes, whether or not they are directly related to global warming, can have an impact on the earth for years to come.

The Potential Effects of Global Warming

With all of the press and celebrity attention that surrounds global warming, there is a good chance that you are at least relatively familiar with this widely debated issue.  Yes, you may know that the earth’s temperature is rising and you may even know that rise is at least partly due to toxins in the environment, but do you know the affects that global warming can have on our planet, the economy, and human life in general?

Mean surface temperature change for 1999–2008 relative to the average temperatures from 1940 to 1980 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

When it comes to global warming, there are many individuals who choose to believe that it is simply a myth or an untrue theory.  This is mostly due in part to the effects of global warming.  We aren’t currently seeing the horrific consequences that many predictions call for.  With that in mind, it is important to remember that many of us will not notice a lot of changes in our weather or our environment right away.  We will notice some, but many of the effects of global warming will not be seen for years to come.

As for the effects of global warming that we notice right now, we are beginning to see stronger storms. Of course, we will never forget Hurricane Katrina and the impacts it had on the Gulf Coast or even the whole country for that matter.  I'm sure many of you are also noticing an increase in stronger thunderstorms and more devastating tornadoes.

Just think of Joplin, Oklahoma, and many of the other areas that have seen absolutely devastating storms just over the past couple of years. Although stronger storms may be related to global warming, many are curious as to the numbers.  Yes, these storms, especially hurricanes, are actually decreasing in numbers, but when they do hit, many are causing far more damage than ever before.

Another affect of global warming that we are noticing now is the melting of icecaps and other glaciers. While this melting is something that has always been predicted, it is happening at a much faster rate than expected.  Many computer models predicted that the melting we are currently seeing today wouldn’t happen for at least five more years. 

Droughts are another affect of global warming that many are experiencing firsthand.  In the summer and early fall of 2007, as well as, who could forget - the record-breaking heat of 2012, many southern states, in the United States, such as Tennessee and Georgia, experienced devastating drought conditions.  In fact, these conditions are still currently a problem.  Even with water restrictions and bans, many cities, towns, and counties were concerned with the drought and their current state of having water.  In fact, many feel that they will run out of water soon if a solution is not found.

As for the future affects of global warming, we are likely to see a change in sea and wildlife.  In fact, we are starting to notice a few changes now.  This is most commonly seen with polar bears and the melting icecaps.  Many are finding it difficult to get food, as there is less ice for them to rely on.  In the future, many scientists and wildlife experts predict that polar bears will become extinct in certain areas of the world.  Until that point in time, we likely will notice changes in the ways that polar bears and other animals hunt for food.

Temperature predictions from some climate models assuming the SRES A2 emissions scenario. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Flooding is also a major concern with global warming.  To many, however, flooding seems a bit ironic, especially with droughts listed as a global warming effect above.  When it comes to flooding, coastal areas are the ones that will see the changes.  The flooding predicted is likely to leave many coastal areas unlivable.  The rise in waters along many coastal areas is due in part to a combination of factors, including warming temperatures, the expansion of water, as well as the melting of glaciers and icecaps.

As previously stated, it is important to remember that global warming and the effects it can and will likely have on the earth will come in stages.  Just because you may not notice significant changes in temperature patterns or the economy right now, it does not mean that global warming does not exist or that it is an issue that we shouldn’t worry about.  The good news is that these slow moving stages may give us more time to take steps to stop global warming or at least lessen its impact.

Video - Why The Global Warming Debate Is Moot

This must-see video demonstrates why the debate over global warming is a moot point and a waste of time. Whether it is real or not, taking measured and responsible action is the reasonable choice, and when you watch this, you'll see why. Can't we all work together and stop arguing and instead look at solutions? What do you think?  Do you feel lucky?

The Most Terrifying Video You'll Ever See
Over 8 million total views. Now there's a book: "...superbly crafted...A must read." -Gen. Anthony Zinni, US CENTCOM Commander (Ret.) "This book trumps most of our accounts of the global warming crisis." --author Bill McKibben "Al Gore should share h...



Some Other Recent Videos on Climate Change You May Want to Check Out: 
"Do We Even Need Our Air Conditioners Next Year?"
Scientist Changes Mind on Global Warming
Discovery Channel - Global Warming, What You Need to Know, with Tom Brokaw

Global Warming Myths & Facts

As global warming continues to receive more exposure on the internet, the television, and the radio, you may start to pay more attention.  If global warming is an issue that you are concerned about or if it is an issue that you would like to explore more, you will want to continue reading on.  A few interesting and occasionally devastating global warming facts are outlined below, as well as some common myths about global warming.

Temperature predictions from some climate models assuming the SRES A2 emissions scenario. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Fact: Global Warming Is Real.  Although there is a lot of opposition and debate that surrounds global warming, scientific proof shows that global warming is real.  This is something that cannot be ignored much longer, even by those who oppose global warming or claim it is a sham.  The earth’s temperature is rising.  With that in mind, this aspect of global warming isn’t always debated as much as the affects of global warming are. (This recent article highlights some of the impending dangers of the warming of our planet - the effects of which are becoming frighteningly evident lately: http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/news/global-warmings-terrifying-new-math-20120719)

Myth:  Humans Are the Sole Cause of Global Warming
While humans do have a significant impact on global warming, as well as the emission of greenhouse gases, we are not the only cause.  Many scientists claim that the earth’s temperature has always been on the rise, albeit a slight rise.  Although the exact cause of global warming or is under debate, there is absolutely no proof that humans are the sole cause of it.

Ha ha - cute! (Photo credit: mirjoran)

Myth:  Global Warming Isn’t True, As It Is Cold Outside
If you live in the north, you are likely to experience cold and chilly winters.  In fact, even during the summertime, you may experiences a slight decrease in temperature.  This decrease in temperature is what often leads people to believe that global warming is just an untrue theory.  Despite opposition, many scientists do believe that global warming does exist and that it will have a serious impact on the future.  As for the temperature, global warming summarizes planetary weather patterns, not just individual events; therefore, you will likely experience a wide range of temperatures and other weather patterns, regardless of where you live.

Fact: Glaciers and Polar Icecaps Are Melting.  This is another fact of global warming that we should all be well aware of.  While there is debate that surrounds this fact, this melting is occurring.  Generally speaking, the debate surrounding the melting of glaciers concerns the causes of it.  Global warming is causing glaciers and icecaps to melt at a faster rate of speed, but it is not the sole cause. 

Myth:  Global Warming is the Sole Reason for Glaciers Melting
Many global warming activists, including Al Gore, claim that global warming is what is causing the glaciers and ice masses in the north and in the extreme south to melt.  Yes, it is true that global warming does have an impact on glaciers melting, but it is not the only cause.  There are a number of scientific studies that show that the melting and shifting of glaciers and other ice masses has been happening for years now.  This means that global warming is not the only cause of ice melt and the possible rise in sea level because of it.

Decline in thickness of glaciers worldwide over the past half-century (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Fact: In keeping with the melting of glaciers, icecaps, and snowcaps, this melting is having a profound affect on sea and wildlife.  For starters, polar bears are the animals experts are most concerned about.  Polar bears rely on glaciers and icecaps as a way to travel and find food.  As these important masses continue to disappear, polar bears are likely to find it more difficult to travel and find food.  In fact, many will die because of this difficulty. 

In addition to melting ice and snow, the increase in the earth’s temperature will also have an impact on water. This is most commonly the case with coral reefs. Coral reefs are suffering due to the steady rise in water temperature.  This change with coral reefs is commonly referred to as bleaching.  This when coral reefs lose their beautiful, vibrant colors.  Unfortunately, this can have a negative impact other sea life, as many rely on coral reefs for food, shelter, and protection.

Fact: The melting of glaciers and icecaps will also have an impact on coastal flooding in the future.  This fact is supported by much independent research and many computer generated models.  As for the impact this important global warming fact can have on the coastal areas, it can and will be devastating.  Many coastal residents will be displaced.  Those in the United States who are most like to be impacted by this flooding are those who reside in low-lying coastal regions such as Louisiana and Texas, as well as some parts of California, but potentially all coastlines could be impacted.

Myth:  Computer Models that Predict Global Warming Are UnreliableOne of the many debates that surround global warming is the use of computer generated weather models.  It is no secret that scientists and meteorologists use computer models to predict the weather.  Although these weather models are not right all of the time, they do have a pretty high success rate.  In fact, numerous weather predicating computer models basically show that global warming is real and that it does have the probability to become a huge problem in the future.

If you are still unsure as to whether or not global warming is a real problem, now is the time to do some research.  Many individuals think that global warming prevention steps are just a waste of time and energy if global warming does not exist.  That is why researching the facts that surround global warming are important.  In fact, you may also want to encourage your friends, family members, neighbors, and coworkers to do the same. See the article referenced above to get you started, and be sure to check back for other helpful resources as well.

Global Warming: Fact or Fiction?

When it comes to global warming, you will find no shortage of information.  Whether you look online, turn the television on, or pick up a newspaper, you are likely to see something on global warming.

Global warming is a topic that is becoming “hot”  (pun intended).  :-)   Most of the information that you will read or see on television concerns the negative affects that global warming will have on our planet, such as coastal flooding, erratic weather, and the faster spread of diseases. Another popular global warming topic is prevention.  You are also likely often presented with ways that you can help to stop or at least lessen the impact of global warming.  These ways often include purchasing energy efficient appliances, cars, and light bulbs.

The Great Global Warming Swindle (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Although much attention and focus is placed on what global warming is and what we can do to stop it, you will also find opposition.  In recent years, we have learned just how much opposition the global warming theory has.  Global warming is no longer a cause for environmentalists; it is also a big cause for debate.  This debate circles around a number of different viewpoints, such as the one that global warming is just a scam to collect money for environmental organizations and the view that the changes we are seeing aren’t directly related to global warming, as they have been anticipated for years now.

So what does all this debate mean for you and other Americans?  It often means uncertainty.  Do you believe in global warming?  If you are uncertain, do you at least feel that it is an issue that needs to be discussed more?  If so, you are not alone.  Many Americans would like to see more information and proof on global warming.  The good news is that you can easily find this proof online or with television and movie documentaries, such as An Inconvenient Truth.  The internet is another tool that you may want to use, when giving global warming a closer look.  In fact, you may want to take the time to research both sides of the global warming debate. 

Even if you do not officially believe in global warming, you may still be concerned with the environment.  As outlined above, some opposition believes that the earth’s temperature would rise anyways, as it has been doing so for years now.  The same can be said with sea level, as a rise has always been anticipated.  Even if global warming isn’t the cause of these changes, they can still cause alarm.  The one thing that many experts agree on, whether or not they can agree on global warming, is that some of the prevention tips suggested are ones that can do no harm.  These tips include carpooling when possible and reducing as much energy in your home as possible, such as by turning off all unused lights and appliances. For more tips on saving energy, be sure to keep your eye on this blog, and browse through the archives as well.

Video - Climate Change: Man Vs. Nature

This video is a bit longer than we usually post, but it is worth a watch. If you are not that familiar with the climate change debate, this is a good one to check out, as it does explain the problems and issues in a way that is easy to understand.

A brief warning - don't expect it to give you all the answers, though - climate change involves the whole planet and everything (and everyone) on it, so it is quite a complex issue, with a variety of factors to consider. But this video does give a good overview of where we are, how we got here, what to expect in the future, and what (if anything) we can do about it.

Climate Change, Man vs. Nature on HOUSTON 8
Our climate is changing -- no doubt about it. Heat waves are sweeping the continent, drought is devastating the south, yet floods have destroyed much of the Mississippi River Valley... and across the globe tsunamis, hurricanes and tornadoes are racki...

Climate Changes Due To Global Warming

There is no doubt that the earth's climate is constantly changing.  Some people feel that it is part of the normal cycle of events on this planet.  Yet, most scientists agree that there are drastic changes occurring that are due to unnatural global warming. 

Image via WikipediaThe weather is getting decidedly warmer.  For the most part, the United States has already warmed up some.  In some places, the average rise in temperature is around four degrees Fahrenheit.  However, all the states show some degree of warming. 

The first and second warmest years on record were 1998 and 2006, respectively.  In fact, every year from the first to the second warmest years, ranked within the warmest 25 years in the US.  In 2006, the annual average temperature was 55 degrees Fahrenheit.  Recent warm years point to a climate change being brought on by global warming. 

Climate changes due to global warming can be seen in the prevalence of drought.  Years are becoming drier in recent decades due to global warming.  This is caused by the heat that is building up around the earth's surface.  Excessive evaporation intensifies drought even more during the spring and fall. 

Global warming has upped the level of drought.  A major drought in the US lasted from 1999-2002.  There were only two other droughts in the last forty years that were so widespread and devastating.  Crops were damaged or would not grow at all, thus shortening the food supply. 

Image via WikipediaThere have been more and more frequent droughts in the West in recent years.  The last 30 years in particular have seen numerous droughts.  These droughts have spawned wildfires that set new records in 2006 for number of fires and of acres burned.  Further proof of global warming is seen in these destructive wildfires. 

While the overall effect of global warming is heat followed by drought, there are still storms.  Since global warming energizes the atmosphere, these storms will be different.  When all is going well, a gentle rain will soak into the earth gradually, causing no more than a minor inconvenience to people.

Lately however (as most in the South and mid-western states are experiencing first-hand), storms are becoming more destructive.  While there have certainly been droughts, rainfall totals have risen in the past century.  This surprising fact is due to the fact that when the rain comes, it comes in rapid downpours.  The sky opens up and dumps water on the earth very quickly in many cases.  This is followed by dry periods. 

The number of times it rains in a year has increased during the last 50 years.  What is more, global warming is causing storms to intensify.  Storms which would have been ordinary thunderstorms in the past are morphing into raging tempests.  Hurricanes have been rated higher in recent years as global warming affects their intensity. 

Global warming is responsible for many climate changes.  It is quite likely that some or our actions help to cause the increase in global warming that precipitates these changes.  If people could make it a common goal to cut down on activities that promote global warming, the earth would be a much more stable environment. 

The Fight Against Global Warming Starts in Your Home

Are you concerned with the potential effects of global warming?  If you are, you are definitely not alone.  As more political figures, scientists, and celebrities voice their concerns about global warming, more Americans are beginning to take notice.  

Image via WikipediaAlthough global warming is an issue that is widely debated, it is an issue that still causes concern.  For example, the predictions state that the weather will become more erratic in the future (hence the recent shift in terminology away from "global warming" and towards "climate change," which is a more relatable way to describe the effects of global warming - which may not seem all that "warm" to some of us).  We may experience horrific coastal flooding and drought will become (and is already becoming in some areas) a big concern.  In 2005, Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast and this storm is not one that we will ever forget.  In the summer and fall of 2007, southern states, such as Georgia and Tennessee experienced life changing drought conditions, which resulted in the strict enforcement of water bans and water restrictions.

Even if you do not be sure whether you believe in the concept of global warming, you may still be concerned with the changes that you are seeing. The good news is that there are a large number of ways that you can help.  If you are interested in doing your part to help stop or lessen the impact of global warming or even just improve the environment, you will first want to start in your own home.

Since carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases are a big cause of global warming or at least the rise in the earth’s temperature in general, we need to limit these emissions from our home.  One of the biggest ways to do so is to turn down your heat.  Even a few degrees can make a huge difference with the toxins that are emitted from our homes.  Simply put on a sweatshirt or invest in a thermostat with a programmable timer.  A programmable timer will enable your homes temperature to be lower when you are not there, but you can set it to turn your heat on right before you arrive home from work.

Image via WikipediaIt may also be a good idea to have your home updated or at least inspected by a professional.  Many individuals have no idea how much heat escapes from their home.  This is most often caused by poor insulation or leaky window seals.  If it seems that your house cannot get warm enough, no matter how high the heat is, you likely have a problem that needs to be addressed.  Although it will cost you money to reinsulate your home or to repair your windows, these repairs should pay for themselves over time, due to a reduction in heating costs.

It is also important to examine your electricity use.  The less electricity you use, the better it will be for the environment.  In fact, did you know that by reducing your electricity use, you can not only help to save the environment and combat global warming, but you can also save yourself a considerable amount of money each year?  You can.  Ways that you can reduce electricity in your home include switching all or most of the light bulbs in your home to energy efficient ones, and using energy efficient appliances, as well as making sure that all lights and appliances are turned off when they are not in use. Many appliances also use some energy even when turned off (these are often called "vampires"). To combat this, plug appliances into a power strip, and simply switch the strip off every time you turn off your appliances.

Other additional ways that you can help to stop the affects of global warming and help the environment in general involves limiting your dishwasher use and putting a hot water heater blanket on your heater.  Hot water heater blankets are affordably priced and they are designed to keep your heater insulated.  When properly used, hot water heater blankets can enable you to lower the temperature.  This can also save you time running the water (another savings), as well as reduce the emissions from your home.  As for your dishwasher, only run it when you have a full load and hand wash any dishes that you may need right away.  This simple step can also help to save you money, especially over time.

The above mentioned easy steps are just a few of the many simple ways that you can take to join the fight against global warming.  While it is important to remember that our homes are not the only cause of carbon dioxide emissions, we must all start somewhere.  What better place then inside our homes?

Climate Change: What Does the Future Hold?

Image via WikipediaWhichever side you fall on the climate change issue, this is a very interesting article. With all the debate going on from many different angles, this address the two most common - the scientific vs. the economic. So what do you think?

The end is nigh? - Climate change, Climate models, Economic growth ...
When scientists and economists try to predict the future, their answers don't always agree.
Publish Date: 03/05/2011 3:00
http://www.terrapass.com/blog/posts/the-end-is-nigh

I think I agree with the article's conclusion - whichever side you fall on, really the best time to act is now. As that old African proverb goes, "The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago; the second best time is today." Let's plant some trees, people!