When you relocate between cities or countries, you may find yourself inadvertently comparing the two. You find yourself drawing a comparison list in your head with each observation you make in your new surroundings. Relatively recently, I relocated from Vancouver to Toronto, and I’ve notice quite a few differences between the two Canadian cities. Besides the greater population, non-mountainous horizons, and taller city buildings, I’ve noticed a lack of designated bicycle lanes and cyclists on the road. This is annoys me. Why? I have a relatively long explanation, that I'll try to summarize for you.
Solar Simplified
The first two thoughts that come to mind when the word ‘sustainability’ is mentioned, are, the colour green, and solar energy. Solar energy and its systems are new enough to be classified as relatively recent, yet old enough to be discussed with Agatha over tea and crumpets. Most of us know what it is, but when asked to describe the mechanisms used to capture it; well, we’d rather stare at the sun rather than explain the magical space fireball, to save face. Not anymore! This article aims to boost your knowledge and confidence in discussing solar energy to which point, you’d be tempted to refer to yourself as ‘The Solar One’. Excited? Me too.
Step One: The Amendment of Apathy
As a relatively irritable person, I use the phrase “You know what really irks me?” far too often. So, it only seems fitting to begin an op-ed on an environmental issue with that very phrase. You know what really irks me? The current rate of progress toward attaining sustainability in much of the world. Allow me to elaborate.
A New Guide
If you are familiar with the magnificent works of Douglas Adams' "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy - Trilogy of Four," you may know where this is heading. (If not, for the sake of mankind, expose yourself to those wondrous works and thank me later). Part of the allure of present day is the rate at which technological and research advancements are being made. Sunlight can be used to power houses, machines can make up their own language, and spinach can be transformed into functioning heart tissue! If you struggle to keep updated with everything that's going on, your face might reflect that glorious renaissance meme above. However, never fear, for I am here!
Relatively Recent Research 