Green Dictionary Definitions – S

Energy generation from gas captured in waste water plants. Sewage gas is biogas produced by the digestion and incineration of sewage sludge. This biogas can be used to generate energy. As biogas is a source of energy with no net carbon emissions it has an important role to play in the reduction of greenhouse gases. Sewage gas is a mixture of methane, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, hydrogen and hydrogen sulphide. The anaerobic digestion of sewage sludge involves fermenting it in tanks at a temperature between 32 and 36 degrees centigrade for about 25 days. The temperature in the digestion tank is kept constant using energy generated by a Combined Heat & Power unit. The biogas produced is then compressed and purified before a being transformed into mechanical and thermal energy. It can also power a generator to produce electricity.

Linking together various buildings on a site/campus to best utilise the energy/load requirements throughout the day.

An advanced electrical meter for domestic use that shows you how much energy you are using at any given time. They can show you which household appliances are costing the most to run, and save you money on your energy bills.

Photo Voltaic is a form of renewable energy that works by converting light into electricity through solar cells that have a layer or two of a semi conducting material such as silicon, creating an electric field.

Panels or tubes which absorb the sun’s heat and uses it to directly heat water systems.

A clear glass coating that prevents solar heat gain whilst maintaining a good degree of daylight level.

A 700 page report written by Sir Nicholas Stern for the British Government on the global economic effects of climate change and global warming. The report has been adopted worldwide.

Economic development that meets the needs of the present, without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Sustainable Urban Drainage relies on ensuring that rainwater can permeate into the ground rather than directing it to storm drains. This reduces the rate at which the rainwater reaches the natural water courses and maintains natural levels.