"A prescription for survival in this gorgeously illustrated and accessible guide to the future of farming." —Albert Bates, author of The Biochar SolutionGrow vegetables year-round in a greenhouse powered only by solar energy!Originally developed in China to feed millions, Chinese greenhouses are earth-sheltered, solar-heated, east-west oriented, intelligently glazed, and well-insulated. They have proven highly effective in growing warm-weather vegeta...

For builders of natural homes (straw bale, cob, adobe, rammed earth, and other natural materials), this unique step-by-step guide takes the confusion out of choosing, mixing, and applying natural plasters.From principles to practicalities, and with every stage of the process illustrated, The Natural Plasters Book details the entire process of plastering with earth, lime, and gypsum for a long-lasting and durable finish. Starting with an overview and history of the natural building ...

A guide to choosing and using solar electricity systems from "the man who launched a thousand rooftop solar arrays . . . the essential go-to manual" (John D. Ivanko and Lisa Kivirist, coauthors of ECOpreneuring).As we look for safer, more economical, and more sustainable ways to meet our needs for electricity—and as more and more electric cars hit the road—solar has become an increasingly popular option. With Solar Electricity Basics, renewable ene...

From the author of Power from the Sun, the complete guide to switching to clean, affordable, renewable energy resources.Energy bills have skyrocketed in the United States, and traditional energy sources can be as damaging to the environment as they are to your pocketbook. The Homeowner's Guide to Renewable Energy will show you how to slash your home energy costs while dramatically reducing your carbon footprint.Completely revised and updated...

Author Dan Chiras is the director of the Evergreen Institute where he teaches and models sustainable living and building practices.The author has published over 30 books which have sold 100 000’s of copiesThis is the first book to give safe, practical advice on ecologically sound ways to recycle human waste based on years of personal experience and research.The increasing demand for water and water shortages in the southern states and elsewhere is creating interest i...

Skyrocketing energy costs and constant reminders of the impacts of conventional energy sources are making homeowners and businesses look at different ways to use energy more efficiently and to generate their own electricity to reduce fuel bills and their carbon footprint.Power From the Wind is the completely revised and updated edition of the go-to guide for individuals and businesses interested in installing small wind energy systems. Written for the layperson, this prac...

Wind energy is the fastest growing source of energy in the world, and by the year 2020 it is projected to supply at least 12 percent of global electrical demand.Wind Power Basics provides a clear understanding of wind and wind energy systems, including turbines, towers, inverters and batteries, site assessment, installation, and maintenance requirements.Whether you’re considering your own small-scale wind energy system or just want a straightforward, detailed intro...

Our automobile culture is devastating for the environment, but private passenger vehicles are unlikely to disappear from our roads anytime soon. Greener cars and fuels will be a necessity for many years to come.Green Transportation Basics is a guide to greening your personal driving habits by dramatically improving the efficiency of an existing vehicle using simple measures such as trip planning and regular maintenance to improve fuel economy. This handy guide also explor...

Heating water with the sun is a practice almost as old as humankind itself. Solar Water Heating , now completely revised and expanded, is the definitive guide to this clean and cost-effective technology.Beginning with a review of the history of solar water and space heating systems from prehistory to the present, Solar Water Heating presents an introduction to modern solar energy systems, energy conservation and energy economics. Drawing on the authors' experie...

The ultimate guide to the art of cleaning, this reference is packed with professional secrets for getting maximum results through minimum results through minimum effort. Discover how to save time, money, and elbow grease on every cleaning problem, as well as how to prevent housework with surprising tricks of the trade. From aluminum siding to zoom lenses, this alphabetical index covers every job, big and small.

A guide to fiber reinforced plastic materials, including fiberglass, Kevlar, and carbon fiber. It also includes sections on mold making, plugs, materials, structures, gel coats, advanced building techniques, tools and equipment.

“If your garden fantasies involve chickens, Jessi Bloom is here to make those dreams come true.” —The New York TimesMany gardeners fear chickens will peck away at their landscape. But you can keep chickens and have a beautiful garden, too! In this essential handbook, award-winning garden designer Jessi Bloom offers step-by-step instructions for creating a beautiful and functional space while maintaining a happy, healthy flock. Free-Range Chicken Garden...