Is Amazon Rainforest On the Verge of Dying?

There are no other ways but to present to you one of the most important discussions that we can share with you. This article is cut in to three portions so that we can be able to relay to you important points of this topic. As we write this article, we cannot help but empathize and feel not only for the immediate victims but for the entire earth. Imagine destroying your lungs… How can we be able to breathe? That is what the world is experiencing right now…

They are the first to suffer from forest fire

Hold Up! The whole world knows what happened with the Amazon rainforest. Yes, you are right, the world’s largest lung is about to die. Nobody knows what truly transpired with the fire. No one can really pinpoint what is the cause and reason of the catastrophe. All we know is that not only the Amazon rainforest is damaged, but the entire humanity as well.

Some of us might not experience the impact of the increasing wildfire especially in terms of their ferocity and frequency. But the truth of the matter is, they consume forests and destroy lives. Is there a more efficient way to battle them? Could the circular bio-economy aid in saving the dying Amazon?

While it is true that some parts of the world may not feel the impact, slowly, it is getting in to our very nerves in terms of economy and sustenance to the forest’s natural resources.

Wood, for instance is in extreme shortage because of what happened. Not to mention the animals and other plant species that has been in extinction because of wildfire. Mind you, more than 60 percent of the Amazon rainforest has been eradicated in the world map. What was once green in shade can now be seen as grayish charcoal in the satellites and can barely be seen in clear because of smoky sights that somehow transcends loss of life, did you see it?

Animals, for instance and different kinds of species are also damaged and wiped out without express aid. How about the tribes and ethnic groups that settles and wanders throughout the rich forest? How are they going to cope with this disaster?

Well, these are the major points of discussion that can be lingered on not only  now, but in the generations of tomorrow. How can fight these occurrences that happen naturally, or intentionally, as we speak? Common fire management practices are equipped with several solutions. Controlled fires which were broadly restricted by colonialist authorities had long been utilized by indigenous and ethnic groups to manage their forests and lands and to secure their group and community from huge scale wildfires.

The next part of this discussion focuses mainly on how the Brazilian Environmental authority has done to battle and cure this endemically natural disaster that cut lives and resources all over the globe. Is there still a way to mend the broken lungs? If there is, how long can we be able to attain its richness and beauty? Will it be on this lifetime?

The first part of this discussion has shown the cause and effects and all the questions that might arise in this phenomenon. This time, we will pay close attention to the meat of this topic. And on how the people, nation, and bodies directly affected by the large-scale wildfires are acting.

In the past few years, the Brazilian Environmental Authority has been working with the aid of ethnic and indigenous peoples. They have been acquiring knowledge from seniors in terms of battling fire, employing ethnic firefighters and putting budget in the application of these best practices on a wide scale. This practice has evolved in to a concrete and stable Fire Management technique with the use of prescribed burns at specific times of the calendar so as to stay away from big scale destruction when the dry and hot wildfire seasons say hello. Common know-how is the framework of all the exercises of prescribed burns in the Amazon territories and is already being practiced in seven Brazilian States namely ROraima, Mato, Grosso do Sul, Grosso, Maranhao, Tocantins, Goias, and of course, the Amazonas. We are speaking of eleven million hectares.

As to this writing, more than sixty percent has been damaged because of large scale wildfires. The construction and furniture industries are crying in terms of shortage. According to statistics, almost fifty five percent of furniture makers and companies all over the globe are getting their supplies and resources in the Brazilian region of the Amazon rainforests. There has been somehow a retard in the production of wooden furniture. On the other hand, construction industries all over the globe, especially in the European region are somehow affected on this.

Hold up! We are only talking on one facet of the problem. And we have yet to tackle the entire economy in terms of other resources which are obtained and acquired in the Amazon rainforest.

Unimaginably, communities across the world will surely struggle in dealing with the increasing impacts of climate change in relation to sustainable development. At this crucial juncture, in our entire humanity, we as a person need to learn, listen, support and respect ethnic traditional knowledge.

Basically, the circular bio-economy is a fast growing approach for more sustainable and industrial development. It is a fusion of twin key sustainability principles. First, it involves utilizing more bio-based and renewable resources for value added items like energy, wooden materials, food and chemicals by utilizing organic waste streams from agriculture and forestry. On the other hand, biodegradable products are taken back to the environment and thereby re-inserting as part of the entire cycle.

By this regard, we can be able to eliminate wildfires even during dry months simply because fires are taken out in the equation. We are to make sure that we make no room for fires. Easier said than done, but it is doable.

The last installment of this discussion is the culmination of the ultimate solution which is bio economy. Let’s continue to read and be educated.

As we have discussed, there were twin key sustainability principles and we still owe you the second one. Well, it keeps those sustainable products and materials in use longer by means or recycling, remanufacturing, sharing and reusing. Instead of throwing them away for sole a sole purpose, might as well make another life out of it. In that regard, we can be able to make the forest be cured in a faster way because we will not need that much. Meaning, we will not also be getting that much. And the end goal is here is for the forest to recover faster than the usual.

In the past article, we asked you if the Amazon can still recover during our lifetime. The answer is yes. And the ultimate solution to that is the most essential part of a circular bio economy which is cascading the utilization of biomass resources.  In relation to this, the main purpose of cascading is to enhance resource efficiency by capturing the significant embodied in materials while decreasing demand for fresh primary items and materials. This idea can be efficiently applied to cascading the use of wood items, paper, and a lot more.

Direct burning of rainforest resources, as we have witnessed in Brazil over the last few months, is the direct opposite of cascading utilization. It destroys not only essential natural habitats but is ultimately wasteful and inefficient from an overall foresight. A swift transition in to a circular bio economy could reinforce a strong innovation development and environment of new high value items like food, supplements and wooden products.

Artistic creation of wild fire

But, to be able for Brazil to take advantage from the rich genetic resources of the Amazon rainforest, it will require protocol and policies in order to preserve the biodiversity of the rainforest to be able to make sure functioning ecosystem in using the natural resources in a sustainable development.

For those of you who have been following us for the past months, this is ultimately what we are talking about in terms of sustainable development. Even before the wrath of the Amazon wildfire occurred, we are already talking about sustainable development. If only our discussion reached the persons affected of such disaster, we may have the chance to prevent it or at the very least, minimize the situation.

But the damage has been done. And we are not stopping from here. We should move forward and embrace what can be done to be able to let the Amazon rainforest in the most efficient and fastest possible time. At the end of the day, we want to see that rich green back in to the picture from up above. There is still a solution. We just have to strictly abide by it.

Truly indeed, the Amazon rainforest it the world’s last rich rainforest. It serves as a lung to our habitat. I cannot imagine the world without it. So, while there is still a solution, we contribute in our little own way.

Industrial Woodworking Machinery at its Finest: A Cut Above the Rest

If you are on the verge of looking for the best woodworking tool, it may seem like the price is the significant difference between a piece of hardware and a further similar make. But the price difference between equipments basically enunciates where the real distinction lies upon: in the grade construction of the equipment.

Based on studies, woodworking equipments are manufactured in three distinctive grades; each having an inferior quality and production capability as compared to the next grade. These are hobby grade, mid grade and industrial grade. If you are in a high volume woodworking business, you will eye industrial woodworking equipments. It basically supplies the most intense and highest production efficiency and rate. It also possesses the most significant resale value and lifespan.

Our factory supervisor Pak Sukra carefully selecting every single plank

HOW THESE GRADES DIFFER

While the difference might be obvious, one should not be blinded on purchasing the wrong type of woodworking machine. Further, the mishandling is because of selecting an inferior grade of equipment in hopes of cutting significant amount of money. However, it can also lead from over investing in hardware that supplies exaggerating capacity, not to small.

Woodworkers are recommended to take a short course on how each grade of woodworking equipment are dealt with before they buy it. As its name applies, hobby grade equipment is destined for hobbyists, which work is not mass produced. To add, it does not need that the tools are overly capable like the ability to cut on ten sheets. The resale value is also restricted because of its lifespan, hobby grade equipments are always purchased in brand new. Furthermore, in relation to capacity of its production, this is a very crucial factor in its distinction from mid-grade to industrial grade.

Preparing plug

Mid grade working equipments possesses a restricted capabilities and a much shorter lifespan. However, their capabilities may be enough to answer for short term industrial basis. Simply put, a mid grade router may attain the rate of production of an industrial model but it may be on a limited span of time because of intense operation. This might also lead to significant breakdowns since it is not destined absolutely for these types of operations. Although the use of mid grade equipment in lieu of industrial machines is cost effective in the long term, the cost of the latter tempts people to utilize a lesser grade of woodworking equipments.

Ergo, the proper equipment is crucial to produce high quality work. Although mid grade and hobby grade equipments is cost efficient as compared to industrial equipments, neither their capabilities in production gives freedom for one to produce similar volume and quality of work at a given time vis-a-vis industrial equipment. When the cost of the equipment is a hindrance in getting the equipment one requires, purchasing the equipment as used is a practical choice than utilizing an insufficient grade of equipment just to cut costs.

Our 6 spindles molding machine ready to shape our ironwood

At Kaltimber, all our machines have been chosen with care and our team highly train to guarantee a great final result to enjoy for generations.

For a more comprehensive approach you should read this fabulous woodworking guide of our friends at DIY garden.

Other source: https://www.thespruce.com/power-tools-woodworkers-should-have-3536541

Three Unique Types of Treated Wood and How to Use Them

Planning a new project or renovation? If your project includes wood, you need to determine what type of wood is best to use. Should you opt for modified wood or treated wood? What type of modified or treated wood is ideal for your particular project? It helps to have an overview of the different wood types available today. Among other things, choosing the wrong wood can sabotage your project, detracting from its longevity and structural integrity. Use this guide to get an idea of treated and modified woods and their uses.

Understanding the Basics of Wood Types

 While there seems to be an astounding variety of wood types and products on the market today, what you really need to know are these three categories:

·         Untreated Wood

·         Modified Wood

·         Treated Wood

Untreated Wood

 Untreated wood is the raw material—plain old wood or lumber. Certain kinds of wood are endowed with natural properties that make them better for certain types of projects. Cedar and teak, for example, have properties that make them naturally better at standing up to moisture. That’s why people often choose them for outdoor projects like decks and railings.

Modified Wood

 Modified wood typically refers to wood that’s been heated. You’ll often hear it referred to as thermally modified wood. This type of wood is increasing in popularity because it’s both functional and eco-friendly. Usually, no chemicals are used to treat the wood. Instead, it is heated in a 400-plus degree, oxygen-free environment. It’s literally cooked. The heat treatment permanently changes some of its characteristics, making it more durable and more ideal for various uses. 

 Many people use modified wood for their decking, home siding, or even their flooring. Keep in mind that the term modified wood can occasionally refer to wood that has also been chemically treated. If you want thermally modified wood or modified wood with no chemical treatments, be sure you understand what you’re buying.

 Treated Wood

 Treated wood is when manufacturers apply a substance to the wood that alters its characteristics. For instance, the treatment (often a preservative) can help the wood stand up to moisture, rot, and pests. Pressure-treated wood falls into this category. During the treatment process, intensive pressure is applied to the wood to remove oxygen. Then, it’s infused with chemical preservatives to protect it from rot and pests.

 Treated wood is used for projects that can include pier pilings, decks, interior framing, outdoor wooden walkways, porch railings, fencing, and more. Your contractor can help you choose the ideal treated wood for the project you have in mind.

 While modified and treated woods won’t last forever, they are popular options because they last longer and perform better under various conditions. Use the following information to help you select a wood type for an upcoming project or home renovation. 

What is Charred Wood/Shou Sugi Ban?

 Charring wood is a weatherproofing treatment that helps protect the wood from moisture and insects. This practice originated from the Japanese technique of shou sugi ban, which chars the woods exterior using a light open flame. The Japanese have been using this technique since roughly the 18th century. They tend to use cedar for the procedure because it’s always endowed with natural moisture-resistance properties.

 Shou sugi ban and charred woods in general function well when it comes to standing up to moisture and insect pests. However, they’re often favored because of their aesthetic appeal. In fact, many interior designers and architects around the globe are opting for charred wood because of its unique appearance.

 Typically, charred and shou sugi ban woods are used for siding panels. Just keep in mind that not all woods are ideally suited to this technique. Open-celled timbers tend to work best. Also, be sure you purchase from a distributor that is experienced in this practice. If the charring process is performed incorrectly, the wood won’t weather properly. In Japan, examples of shou sugi ban have withstood outdoor elements for more than 50 years, but it’s not quite certain how long other charred woods can hold up without information from the manufacturer.

 If you’re planning to use this wood to side your home, garage, shed, or other outdoor structure, it’s a good idea to consult your contractor. It’s clear that sourcing this wood from a reputable vendor is key to the success of a project. If you intend to use this practice to treat wood for a piece of furniture or other indoor feature, DIY is a viable option.

Charred wood

What is Shiplap Wood?

 Because it’s commonly misidentified, shiplap is another wood type best sourced from your contractor. Shiplap is a type of wooden board that is most commonly used as exterior siding, but it can also be featured indoors as paneling. You’ve most likely seen shiplap adorning barns, sheds, and various types of outbuildings. Rustic and affordable, shiplap is a popular option for people who favor rustic or early American styles.

 Shiplap is celebrated for its ability to stand up to weather conditions. This is why it’s often featured in areas with four-season climates or coastal areas like Miami that are subject to sea storms. The wood can expand and contract without much effort, so it’s a great choice for outdoor projects. Shiplap is typically installed in horizontal planks and fastened with rabbet notches. The boards slightly overlap, which is why this wood has a reputation for being “watertight” and historically featured on ships.

 If you intend to use shiplap as a waterproof barrier, be weary of shiplap imitators. Planks that aren’t installed with rabbet notches and nailed in place don’t deliver a watertight barrier and are not true shiplap. If you’re planning to install this in your living room as a part of a new piece of furniture or interior design feature, you may be able to get away with a DIY installation. However, if you’re installing it on your exterior or in a moisture-rich setting like a bathroom, it’s a job that’s best left to professionals.

Shiplap reveal

What is Reclaimed Barn Wood?

 Reclaimed wood is a trendy option for home design today. However, unlike trends that come and go, reclaimed barn wood has staying power. Salvaged from other buildings, the wood has stood the test of time and frequently boasts a rich patina that enhances its antique look. It is essential to choose wood that isn’t warped. Also, many vendors today sell reclaimed wood that’s been heat-treated to make it even more durable and pest resistant. Today, people use reclaimed barn wood for both interior and exterior projects. It’s ideal for porch posts, mantelpieces, stair rails, flooring, and more.

 If you’re still uncertain about what type of wood to choose for your upcoming renovation, consult with your contractor. A professional who works with these types of wood can advise you about the best options for your project. You can also rely on your contractor to source wood for you. It’ll often be at a cheaper rate than you can find on your own.

 Remember, it’s important to select the right type of wood for your project or you risk it failing. There are many, many options available today. It’s important to understand what you need for a successful project outcome.

Barn wood interior design

Originally Published on Redfin

The Amazon Rainforest: An Abundance of Wildlife

One article is not enough for this topic. We all know that a lot of you guys turn their eyes wide when they read topics such as this. We try to picture what it is like to be in the Amazon Rainforest. This two-part article focuses mainly on what the place has to offer. But hey, aside from literally being in the forest, there is no better way than to read this and have your imaginations work for you.

The Amazon rainforest is a habitat to several numbers of species that composes twenty (20) percent of those found on planet earth. With an area of two and a half million square miles, which basically represents almost seventy (70) percent of South America, The Amazon Rainforest broadens and traverses into nine countries namely: Colombia, Brazil, Ecuador, Peru, Guiana, Suriname, Venezuela and French Guiana.

Verily, the Amazon rainforest is being regarded to be the globe’s biggest natural resource, constitutes more than fifty (50) percent of the Earth’s entire rainforests. Regarded as the Earth’s lungs, it basically produces more than twenty (20) percent of the Earth’s oxygen; more than any other sole source having said that, the Amazon Rainforest is a crucial source of the air that we now breathe.

It’s canopies are habitat to tie world renowned Toucan with its thick, large colorful beak and short neck in fusion of blue, white, red and blue. Further, the Amazon Rainforest caters over thirty three (33) percent of the total bird species that can be found on Earth. A lot of which are considered to be endangered species because of man’s encroachment as well as the deforestation of the rainforest.

Further to its plentiful and copious avian population, the Amazon Rainforest is regarded as home to the capybara. Weighing at about a hundred pounds and at about two feet in height, the capybara is considered to be the world’s biggest rodent. Regarded as an endangered species, it is an efficient swimmer. It spends most of its existence underwater. The capybara mainly exists on a diet of melons, grass, squash, and water vegetation.

The Amazon Rainforest’s biggest mammal is not a land animal, as you might assume, but exists in the Amazon River as well as its tributaries, the Amazonian Manatee. It is more commonly known as sea cows because of its herbivorous attitude and spending most of its days grazing. Some are also contending that they saw mermaids when encountering the Amazonian manatee.

Recognized as one of the prettiest of all the Amazon Rainforest’s creatures, is the mythical Amazon pink river dolphin that is suffering from the effects of development. The Amazon pink river dolphin is an extreme endangered species because of the pollution of its habitat from mining and agriculture industry. Local fisher folks do not witness the dolphin for its beauty because of its discipline of tearing holes in their nets to steal their catch.

The second part of this article discusses the different predators that roam around the wildlife of the Amazon Rainforest.

Meanwhile, the Jaguar is considered as beautiful but deadly Amazon Rainforest settler. An efficient hunter and an excellent athlete/runner, the jaguar grows up to seven feet long and can weigh in as much as two hundred fifty pounds. The jaguar is naturally adept on water or land and can climb trees and run while hunting its prey in no time. They swim after aquatic prey like the turtles or pirarucu.

On the other hand, one of the largest predators in the Amazon rainforest is the resident black caiman. It is less attractive and as equally dangerous as the jaguar. With no natural foes, other than man, it can grow to as huge as twenty feet in length and can weigh in as much as four thousand pounds. It has been known to eat creatures like capybara, rover otters and even humans.

And without all people knowing, with its broad animal population, the Amazon Rainforests is home not only to huge predators but is also a habitat for small and microscopic creatures. One of the deadliest small creatures is the poison arrow frog. Harmless if left alone it has the most powerful poison that is known to man. Its toxin poison can kill as much as one hundred and fifty people. The Amazon Indians have long harvested the frog because of its poison, which they utilize on the tips of their arrows when hunting.

The Amazon Rainforest is a healthy habitat for the fabled and dangerous anaconda, which grows its entire existence. The biggest ever caught was about thirty feet long with the girth of forty five inches and is assumed to approximately weigh five hundred pounds.

The most infamous of all the wildlife in Amazon Rainforest is undoubtedly the piranha. The best known and most feared of all the creatures in the Amazon is the red bellied piranha. Feeding in huge schools they can converge upon, and munch with their razor sharp teeth, such pres as jaguars, anacondas, and caimans. However, contrary to famous beliefs, attacks on humans never occurred.

Hundreds of species of wood are also prevalent in this area. Some are endangered while others are being utilized by the locals mainly for construction of houses and barns and other settling structures. However, abusive people are starting to cut trees for commercial purposes. We have to do something in order for us to sustain the habitat and we should not let this dissipate. Let us prevent these illegal loggings so that not only the beauty but also the abundance of the rainforest can be preserved and maintained to the highest and optimum productivity.

At the end of the day, you cannot do anything but to appreciate nature’s blessing that people can avail of. Truly indeed, the Amazon Rainforest has a lot of things to offer, from the plant species, to animals and even wood!

Is Eco Friendly Wallet Friendly?

A lot of us nowadays haven’t touched the issue on climate change. Many are paying close attention to industrialization in relation to lucrative changes for the betterment of society. But time will come that mother earth will have its day of reckoning. She will get back on each of us. We have to be remembered that industrialization is as fast as a lightning. The rapid growth of technology as a way to forget the benefit of nature is slowly conquering eco-friendly system. While we still have time, we need to have a balance between industrialization and sustainable development.

But the truth of the matter is, people will not even bother to know more about it. Many will just say that it is a system of recycling. They are wrong. Recycling is just a piece of the pie. There is more to eco-friendly system in sustainable development. But hey, don’t get me wrong here. I am not telling you to turn your back on technological advancements and focus your sight in nature and its benefits alone. What I am saying is that we have to make a balance between two forces so that mother earth will sustain its life. Remember, we only have one home, and that is our planet.

The first issue that one can face is the fact of price. Is it wallet-friendly? Mind you, it is! It is way cost-efficient as compared to the other force. As a citizen, there is nothing better than starting with your home. What can be recycled should be used to optimize its purpose. So, there you go; the bottom line is you do not need substantial amount of money to activate eco-friendly system.

From the recycling of jars, cans to composting your leftover food and planting your own vegetable at home, I bet you there is more to that. In terms of redesigning or remodeling your home, you can use old hardwood floors for rustic designs. Now, tell me, how pricey it is? Just always remember that there is more to life. There is more than meets the eye. Just look around you and you will surely contribute to eco-friendly system. There are a lot of things that you can do without spending a lot of money. For example, if you have a backyard, you can plant your own vegetables. If you have not, then there is a system where you can plant on pots. See, being “green” is not bad at all. Another one that can be productively applied is water recycling. With a win-win situation, you can save right amount of money and you can help conserve water.

At the end of the day, you will realize that being an eco-friendly is wallet friendly as well. No amount of money can be measured if one can simply contribute to perpetuate the life of the mother earth and sustain the generation of today and tomorrow. True enough being eco-friendly is truly friendly, in nature, and in your wallet.

Reasons for Choosing a Small Swimming Pool

This article focuses mainly on one’s contribution to sustainable development. And one solution is not to construct a large swimming pool.

It is a known fact that having a large tract of land with swimming pools is considered as status symbol for one’s community. Especially if your pool is as big as it can cater many people, your status is above regular. However, when benefits come, these are also coupled with other disadvantages and loopholes. Having a large swimming pool at home is a bit of a complex to maintain and operate. In coherence with sustainable development, other disadvantages of having a large swimming pool outweigh its benefits.

Meaning, we cannot sacrifice the many downsides of having a bigger swimming pool just for our own personal benefit. We need to jive with the community and the world at large. Yes, having a large swimming pool can be an eye candy. It will surely cater big parties and lots of people. Having a large area to swim is truly a de-stressing kind of activity and can be regarded as therapy for a week’s stressful work load.

But yes as well, before you think of building a large swimming pool, let me first discuss to you the downsides and disadvantages of having one.

·         It is not cost efficient. Of course, we cannot deny the fact that the larger your pool  is, the bigger your construction cost will be; as simple as 123. And mind you, that will not stop there. The bottom line is, do not construct or build a large pool if after building it, you have nothing left with you. How about its maintenance and operation? It also entails expenses. I mean you cannot just pour water in to it, without treating it. You cannot just swim at it without knowing that the water you used is clean. That is only some of the things that you need to know. Having a large swimming pool is having large continuous expense by which you are not sure whether you can sustain it.

But wait! Do not ever tell me or yourself that you have all the money in the world for the construction and maintenance of your large swimming pool inside your residence. Now, it is being self-serving. You might have the resources but where did you get it? Be responsible and contribute to sustainable development by not being self-serving. I know you know what I mean.

As you see, the construction itself posits a very alarming state in terms of your finances. It is truly a quandary in your pocket. At the onset, we should not be blinded by the fact that this will result in shelling out significant amount of money.

The next part or this intriguing article will pay close attention to the intrinsic disadvantages which cannot be seen by the naked eye. Thus, we need to put our eyes on the next set of disadvantages to lure you out from constructing large area of swimming pool.

·         Maintenance and operation is complex. The operation and maintenance of your  large swimming pool is expensive as well. Unless you are a professional, you will surely spend significant amount of money for your swimming pool’s maintenance.  Each pool owner understands the requirement of installing a filter in their swimming pool. It maintains the clean water and fit for bathing. There are specifically four classes of filtration system that are utilized for cleaning swimming pools. These are sand filtration method, cartridge inground method, Diatomaceous filtering method and Activated charcoal filtering method.

The point of this matter is, whatever system you use for your filters, you will still spend significant amount of money on a regular basis. If you are to filter large volume of water, surely, you will shell out large amount of money as well. 

Not only that, you will too spend with treatment and cleaning. So, how was that?

·        Release and outlet of water is a problem. Considering your large swimming pool, when it is time for you to release and replace your water, large amount of water will be a dilemma for your neighbors and community if you do not possess a proper release method for this. Water recycling can be an idea of solution but we will also go back to the first disadvantage, it will be costly for sure.

·         Soaring water utility bills. Of course, when you construct a large swimming pool, it is very sure that you will spend for large amount of water utility bills. Needless to say, the larger the volume of water consumption is, the bigger your water expense will be; as simple as that.

·         You are not contributing to sustainable development. This is regarded as the very important parameter that anyone could ever imagine. Sustainable development is a responsibility that everyone should contribute to be able to sustain and maintain the earth’s resources. Imagine a large volume of water being used and being damped after. Instead of a lot of people can utilize water resources, a big chunk of it goes to your pool for you to enjoy. How self-serving is that, right? If you are thinking of tomorrow, I suggest that your building of small swimming pool is a significant contribution to sustainable development. Be sensitive enough to know the needs of the population of tomorrow.

Overall, we can further state that the disadvantages overshadow and prevail over the advantages of having a large swimming pool. If you are on the verge of building a swimming pool inside your home, you need to consider its adverse effects not only to your family and purse, but more importantly, to the community and the world at large.

At the end of the day, you can sacrifice some advantages but experience what it is like to have a swimming pool. It is best recommended to construct a small swimming pool just right for you and suitable for your needs.

You can add the final long lasting beauty touch and install one of our reclaim Ulin ironwood decking around it!

The Anti-bacterial Characteristics of Wood should be Influenced in Construction

The capability to keep moisture intact, the advantageous acoustic elements and thermal conductivity are famous properties of wood. But at this point, researchers are becoming focused in wood’s antibacterial components. Say for example, a contrast of cutting boards has been discovered that it repelled bacteria as compared to plastic boards.

A lot of materials contain voltaic organic elements, more commonly known as VOCs, which are regarded to be health hazards. The volatile compound of wood has been found to have some antibacterial benefits. Based on clinical studies, the scent of a lot of wood elements is harmful to bacteria itself but not human. It was compared how well bacteria survived on untreated wood surfaces when compared to glass which is basically regarded as hygienic. When the volume of growth of bacteria on several surfaces were compared and cultured in a laboratory, both listeria and e-coli gradually died on the wood surface but it survived on the glass plate serving as a control.

Wood extracts have also been found to be sufficiently efficient against hospital bacteria. It can be said that surfaces of a lot of wood compounds have antibacterial elements and that pine a bigger antibacterial effect than spruce. A lot of dozens of several wood extracts have been found to possess antibacterial properties as the lignin that binds the fibers together possesses an antibacterial effect. Further, wood surfaces quickly dry and this dryness of the wood puts bacteria at a loss.

Based on research, it was stated that there has been a minimal study into the effects of wood on well-being. Say for example, surveys of residents performed in wooden constructed building do not cause allergies in settlers in the same manner that a lot of materials possess as well.

The underlying anti-bacterial elements of wood do not originate from a sole substance but are the product of a well-functioning entirety of several substances. If a change of materials can retard the spread of hospital bacteria, we should capitalize the opportunity. And now that antibacterial research on wood has initialized, it would be an effective concept to appropriately study the effects of antibacterial wood in hospital and homes.

There are a lot of practical applications that leverage the antibacterial components of wood. Some companies manufacture a wide array of hygiene products from wood ranging from skin agents to rugs and chopping boards. They have enhanced the woods inherent anti bacterial features in their products and more.

It is best to know that all parts of wood have medicinal benefits. If antibacterial materials can be utilized in contact surfaces in public spaces, we will decrease or retard the transmission of several infectious diseases spread by hand. There are a lot of ideas and practical considerations that can be modified from these antibacterial characteristics. The only limit is our imaginations.

Truly indeed, wood brings wonder to lives of people. All the benefits are just there, and what we should do is to optimize its use to the fullest without abusing such.

A Wonder Medicinal Plant: Quinine, a cure for Malaria

Quinine still manages to be an essential anti-malarial drug almost four hundred (400) years after its emergence was initially recorded. But, its continued use is challenge by its weak tolerability, weak compliance with dosing components, and the availability of more successful anti-malarial drugs.

Quina, an active ingredient which is considered to be one of the most effective way of treating malaria in the early times, is propagated and commercialized as quinine nowadays, as a medicinal wonder that cures the same. However, the role of rectal quinine has not been exploited effectively, but it still remains as a promising tool.

Cinchona, or more commonly known as quina quina tree, is where Quina is derived. People use the bark to make the medicine. This is also used in enhancing appetite, modifying the release of digestive juices. It also uses to treat bloated stomachs, and other stomach issues. More importantly, it is also being used to treat malaria. It can be taken as a tea, by boiling the bark of the quina quina tree.

But because of medicinal development, it has evolved in to a wonder drug known as quinine. Malaria has been a menace in the early 1900s up to the Second World War. And a lot of people died because of malaria. The emergence of quinine has been a blessing to humankind. Quinine continues to play a crucial role in the treatment of malaria, especially in the early stages, and it will remain a major component of treatment until safer alternatives become prevalent.

True enough, the answer to one’s problem in treating diseases can be found everywhere. The nature has its own way of communicating to people and showcasing what can be used to fight such diseases.

At this point in time, quinine remains as an essential anti-malarial medicine that came from the timber quina, almost four hundred years after Jesuit priests initially documented its wonder. The 2010 World Health Organization (“WHO”) parameters recommend a mixture of quinine plus doxycycline, clindamycin and tetracucline as second line of defense for simple malaria and quinine plus. A significant amount of people have perished during the Second World War and estimated to be six hundred thousand soldiers and civilians. Moreover, the toll dropped to almost negligible in the present times and malaria can now be identified not as deadly. This is because of the help of quinine.

If only Cinchona was propagated during the Second World War and the Jesuit’s discovery has given significant attention, the world will not suffer from enormous amounts of death because of malaria. However, the world also has a way to teach us the importance of nature. That is why there is a need to take care of our vast forests to be able to have an abundant stock of Cinchona tree. This leads us to sustainable development as a system that links nature to man and its surroundings.

Believe me when we say this, all the answers to our problem can be seen and witness in our nature. You just have to develop it.

Top Ten “not-so-famous” woods you never heard of - 2/2

The second part of this article will cover top five down to our finest pick. Enjoy

Making it to the coveted 5th spot is the DESERT IRONWOOD with a scientific name of Olneya Tesota. If you are knife-maker, this may probably be familiar to you. The rest of the world has no clue, I guess. This wood is extremely dimensionally stable to the point that it is almost scary. It is ultimately sturdy. It also has appealing grains, colors and is excellent for turning.

The tree grows crooked and very small that is why pieces are so limited and not cost economical. This wood can be utilized for your small special projects.

On the fourth spot is PISTACHIO WOOD, with scientific name as Pistacia Vera. Appeal and aesthetic is very good. Features an interesting color with tons of variation, and stripes that would make the zebra put to shame. People wanted the fruit more than the desired wood. They do not have the plan to cut them because there are some available out there that has the same features as the pistachio wood.

On the precious third spot is the BLACK LOCUST WOOD, with a scientific name of Robinia Pasudoacacia. Actually this is a common wood, that is why I am confused as to why more people do not have any idea about it and use it. Mostly, it is prevalent in the European Continent. This is an efficient substitute for common hardwood. This is tough and built to last unlike the regular commercial wood you always see on the market.

One notch lower to our top spot is KATALOX, with scientific name of Swartzia Spp. Just like ebony but differ in prices, then you will surely adore katalox. Some pieces can be just as dark as legit ebony, with a shade of purple. Other pieces can showcase a shade of reddish brown with black lines. So many elements in the Swartzia family - however, it is not frequently imported, and a lot of boards have an outrageous amount of Sapwood in them. So you really have to look for the best pieces. This is an excellent substitute for ebony if you are eyeing for a darker tone in your pieces.

Last, but definitely not the least, making it on our top spot is the MACACAUBA, with scientific name of Platymiscium spp. This wood exudes a colorful palette, with a lot of pieces having rich oranges and red with a fusion of black veins and darker brown of sophistication and exquisiteness. Some woods are adored for their color, other are loved for the grains and stripes on the wood. Well, Macacauba features both, and mind you, it is not expensive!

This appealing wood has the best of both worlds in terms of strength and color. Some notable names for this wood also include Macawood, Coyote, and Hormigo. Commercially, it is quite known as “Orange agate”.

Truly indeed, there are a lot of wood species that can be utilized and not only those which are famous. You just have to come up with a research and make a few clicks.

Top Ten “not-so-famous” woods you never heard of - 1/2

Hardwoods are easy to find, but do you know each features? There are other hardwoods that you never heard yet. This two-part article will show you some woods that are never heard as well as some of their features. Let us take a look at ten of the unusual hardwoods all over the globe:

Garnering the 10th spot is MOPANE, with a scientific name of Colophospermum mopane. This hardwood has stellar acoustic features which has lots of potentials. It is highly dense and can produce appealing grain and color patterns. It is a bit hard to find because it is only available in minimal chunks and blanks. To add, it is a bit costly and a lot of people are not up to spending significant amount of money on a wood that they have never heard.

Covering the ninth 9th spot is PAULOWNIA with a scientific name of Paulownia tomentosa. Among the definitive lightest woods there is in the world but not as foamy as the balsa wood. It is regarded as one of the most stable woods in relation to humidity and has very low movement in service. Grows like a weed, the paulownia are plantation grown.

Picture source paulownia.pro

The Japanese tend to utilize it all before anyone can lay hands on it. Paulownia is prices in the Japanese region and utilized for all classes of things.

On the eighth 8th spot is the GREENHEART with a scientific name of Chlorocardium  Rodiei. Greenheart is recognized as a wood of extremes. Entirely, it probably the sturdiest wood all over the globe, with off the charts MOR and MOE and crushing strength. It also possesses a stellar weathering features and rot resistance, more applicable in marine environment.

On its downside, this wood is a bit of a complex to work with. It is complicated to fasten and glue. It is also hard to saw.

On the seventh 7th spot is the CHAKTE VIGA, with a scientific name of Caesalpinia platyloba. There is so much to love about this wood. It has an exceptional tonal and acoustic features; it has a subtle iridescence that accumulates sophistication to any item. But overall, pieces with reddish or orange-ish coloration can be found. The color actually lasts as compared to other woods.

It is also more commonly known as Paela Wood. It is not cost-efficient as it is a bit hard to find.

The sixth spot is the BURMESE BLACKWOOD, with scientific name of Dalbergia Cultrata. This wood is easy to love as it exudes undue appeal. The grain pattern is basically extraordinary and a bit complicated to replace or imitate with another type of wood. This is in closes competition with pheasant wood.

This is quite never heard of because it is seldom available in the market. And when there is a chance, it is usually expensive. People never regard it as an ebony knockoff for that matter, but it is basically entirely different species.

The next article will feature the next five spots that will complete the magic ten.