Archive for the ‘Environment’ Category
Tuesday, January 3rd, 2012
Every year after Christmas, the streets are lined with orphaned Christmas trees awaiting their fate as the garbage trucks slowly make their rounds. In the past few years, New York City has been urging people to recycle their trees with Mulchfests. What this entails is that for two days after Christmas the city sets up centers in parks around New York and the five boroughs where people can bring their trees to be shredded into wood chips for free. Tree owners have the option of taking the wood chips home with them in a biodegradable bag provided by the city, or leaving them for the city’s use.
This year the Mulchfest will take place on January 7 and 8 in 70 sites around the city. 35 of the sites will be chipping sites, where the wood is shredded on the spot, and the other 35 will be drop-off sites, from where the city will collect the trees to be recycled. Last year, close to 17,000 Christmas trees were recycled, and New York officials hope to beat that number this year.
The Mulchfest is just one of the ways that the U.S. federal and state governments are trying to bring awareness to the importance of recycling and reusing. While wood chips have many practical uses, in some ways rubber mulch trumps wood. Rubber chips are also recycled, made from old tires. They are more durable than wood, lasting many years, and are great for use in playgrounds, horse arenas, and gardens.
Those who take part in the Mulchfest are trying to do their part to help clean up our planet. In the same vein, it is worthwhile to look into the many uses of rubber mulch, and continue the chain of recycling.
Tags: Mulchfest, recycled tires, rubber mulch
Posted in Environment, landscape, Mulch, Parks, playground flooring, Rubber, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle, tire mulch | Comments Off
Thursday, December 1st, 2011
Tires are big, bulky objects with nowhere to go once they are past their prime. Slowly, people are becoming aware of their usefulness in the form of recycled rubber mulch, but there is still much to be done to achieve the recycling of the majority of tires. Andrew Horsman, executive director of Ontario Tire Stewardship, is giving his all to get more tires recycled.
OTS, a non profit organization, works with nine companies that manufacture recycled rubber products, such as rubber mulch flooring for playgrounds and landscaping. Now he is working to bring awareness to the construction industry. Products that can be made from rubber tires include roof shingles, mouse pads, soaker hoses, and more. Last summer, OTS reported the 25th million tire recycled in Ontario.
Horsman says that in the construction industry tires can be used more than once because they are retreaded. However, awareness has been slower because unlike regular consumers who get their tires changed at Wal-Mart, many of the construction companies work with other companies who take care of all their tire and mechanical needs.
While Horsman is doing his best to make a change for the better in Canada, the change must spread throughout the U.S., too. Thousands of tires that have nowhere to go could be put to good use by recycling them and using them in new and improved products.
It’s the responsibility of mechanics and retailers who deal with tires worldwide to put these changes into effect. Major retailers such as Costco, Wal-Mart, AutoZone, and other, have the power to recycle thousands of tires, helping to manufacture safe and eco-friendly rubber mulch. It takes just a little bit of effort to cause everlasting change.
Tags: eco-friendly mulch, recycle rubber tires, recycled rubber mulch
Posted in Environment, Mulch, Rubber, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle, Rubberecycle Manufacturer, tire mulch | Comments Off
Thursday, November 10th, 2011
As discussed in the previous post, grass takes a huge toll on the environment, as well as your wallet. Groundcover, rubber mulch, and ornamental grasses were discussed as good alternatives to natural grass. There are a few more options that will also take the place of grass at a lower cost financially, and to the planet.
Clover is a leafy plant that comes in various forms. It is used to condition soil and to choke out weeds. It is a good alternative to grass because it needs little watering or mowing, and no fertilizer. It also stays green throughout the summer, and costs little to purchase. The plant only grows to about four to eight inches high. It should not, however, be used in play areas or areas of constant use.
Flower and shrub beds are an excellent option for areas of low usage, and are great for sloping, hard to mow areas. Shade-loving flowers can be planted beneath trees or overhangs, areas where grass may have a hard time growing. They will also add to the aesthetic appeal. When planting flower beds, it is important to mulch around the plants. The mulch will keep the soil moist, and protect it from weeds. You can choose from a variety of options, including rubber mulch for landscaping, leaf mold, sawdust, and other options. Flower and shrub beds should be planted raised, and with a small variety of flowers.
There are many great alternatives to grass in a garden or lawn that will retain a pretty effect, with benefits to all involved parties. The specifics will be individualized to the garden in question, but in almost any area, some of the grass can be eliminated with creative alternatives.
Tags: garden mulch, landscape mulch, rubber mulch
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Tuesday, November 1st, 2011
Large, beautiful lawns of grass bring beauty to any area, but they can cost the environment greatly, aside for monetary expenses. Lots of fuel must be used for lawn mowers, lawns consume lots of water, and there are toxic emissions, among other concerns. There are many excellent alternatives to grass that will provide a beautiful garden or lawn without using natural grass.
Groundcovers are plants which spread across the soil, but do not grow high. They can be used as a form of mulch, and they are usually chosen for texture, density, and how well they prevent weeds. Unlike grass, these plants require little or no maintenance. Common forms of groundcover are flowers such as perennials and evergreens, and edible forms, such as strawberries.
Rubber mulch is excellent for permanent walkways, pathways, and driveways. It is also used around plants. Landscape mulch is aesthetically pleasing to the eye, and is commonly used in backyards and playgrounds. Rubber mulch comes in numerous colors to fit and enhance any landscaping design. Because of its synthetic nature, the rubber surfacing also needs little or no maintenance, resulting in no cost to the environment. In fact, it is made out of recycled tires, benefitting the environment.
Ornamental grass comes in many forms, and is synthetically produced. The grass is drought resistant, and requires little maintenance, utilizing a lot less fertilizer and water. Ornamental grass looks exactly like naturally grown grass, with less cost to the environment.
Rubber mulch is one of many excellent alternatives that can keep lawns beautiful, easily maintainable, and eco friendly.
Tags: fake grass, Gardening, landscape mulch, rubber mulch
Posted in Environment, Gardening, Garening, landscape, Mulch, Playsafer mulch, Rubber, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle, Rubberecycle Manufacturer, tire mulch | No Comments »
Monday, September 19th, 2011
Autumn is one of the few seasons when injuries in children are at a lower rate. There is no ice for kids to slip on, and no risk of dehydration, drowning, heatstroke, and sunburns. With the weather crisp and cool, many a child revels in jumping in freshly raked piles of leaves and feeling the wind in their hair as they speed down the street on bikes. With other preoccupations aside, it’s the perfect time to take stock of your backyard playground and ensure that it is as safe as can be.
The first thing to consider is playground flooring. The White House has led by example in showing that the most eco friendly flooring option that is also at the top in playground safety is rubber mulch. Rubber mulch playground floors come in many different forms and colors. In fact, the White House playground boasts green Playsafer rubber mulch. With an extra measure of shock absorbency, rubber chips help prevent injuries in children at play.
Do some research to determine whether you require rubber wear mats, rubber mulch bonding, or rubber mulch chips. Each has benefits for specific situations. Rubber mulch will offer your playground a cheerful, fresh look, while keeping your children safe.
The next thing to look at is the age of the playground equipment. Rust can be a cause on infection. Rusty parts should be oiled and cleaned. If the rust persists, it’s time to say good bye. Old toys can also be weak and dangerous to play on. Check that screws are tight, and that the playground equipment easily holds your full weight before allowing your child to play on it.
Although you may not have noticed it, children grow, and their needs change as they develop. You may want to consider updating your playground toys with more age appropriate apparatus in order to further enhance your child’s development. As long as it’s in good condition, you can easily sell your old playground equipment on Craigslist, Ebay, etc.
Playground equipment that has been neglected and broken with time must be gotten rid of, as it poses a safety hazard. You never know when your child may decide to reminisce about his younger years in an old playground toy. This is asking for trouble.
Tags: Playground flooring, playground safety, rubber mulch flooring
Posted in commercial playgrounds, Environment, Mulch, Parks, playground flooring, Playground safety, playground surface, playground surfacing, Playsafer mulch, Rubber, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle | Comments Off
Thursday, August 25th, 2011
Playgrounds are meant for children to play in and enjoy, but that doesn’t mean that they have to be eyesores. There are companies devoted to designing the most aesthetically pleasing playgrounds for the area, as well as providing the best that playground equipment has to offer.
The first step for any playground is the purchase of rubber mulch. Rather than the wood chips or blacktop of old, rubber mulch is the playground flooring of the future. Constructed from recycled rubber, the chips are made to resemble wood, with an extra shock absorbing quality that makes them the best option for playground safety. Unlike wood, rubber mulch also does not freeze in the winter, maintaining a cushiony softness that is the perfect texture for children’s antics.
From a design perspective, the playground flooring comes in a variety of colors, including green, orange, rust, and many more. Rubber mulch is also odor free, and is non-staining and non-abrasive. The color does not fade over time, maintaining a healthy, vibrant look. It is important to coordinate the color of the rubber mulch with the surrounding fence of the play area, if there is one, and its relation to the rest of the playground gear. Depending on the area, it may be a good idea to cordon off one section of the playground with rubber mulch, and landscape the rest with grass, or vice versa.
Playground equipment is constantly being improved, with more creative ways for children to play, and innovative designs that keep the equipment pleasing to the eye. The options are endless, with jungle gyms in futuristic designs and color codes to match any design specifications. There are playground sets that also come with thematic elements, boasting a wood look, futuristic appeal, and much more. It is important to take into account the wishes of the children who will actually use the playground in question.
If this is an option, it is always nice to design the playground in tandem with the surroundings, taking into account the landscaping. Bushes and natural hedges are a classic way of encircling the play area, with rubber mulch surrounding the center jungle gym.
The options when designing a playground are endless, and as a considerable investment, it’s worth taking the time to do thorough research. Rubber mulch is a staple in any playground, and then the rest will follow.
Tags: Gardening, landscape, playground safety, rubber mulch
Posted in commercial playgrounds, Environment, Gardening, landscape, Mulch, Parks, playground flooring, Playground safety, playground surface, Playsafer mulch, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle, tire mulch | Comments Off
Thursday, August 25th, 2011
Clovis schools Superintendent Terry Myers shared the following vision and provided an update on district projects:
Our focus is on student performance in our classrooms. Every child is important and must succeed in our schools. Every child — every time will be our standard.
We also appreciate the continued support of our community. The quality education we provide for our children in Clovis would not be possible without this support. We hope to continue to provide a quality education for our children at CMS. It is our sincere desire to set the standard, in and outside of the classroom for public schools in New Mexico.
We are pleased to continue to honor our construction commitment to our community. Major construction is nearing completion at Marshall Middle School and La Casita Elementary.
A first-day-of-school visit to La Casita Elementary’s ribbon-cutting ceremony represented so well the sheer joy that comes with new beginnings. While much of the major construction is still under way inside blocked-off wings of the main building, student enthusiasm remained undimmed. The ribbon-cutting was to celebrate the official opening of the new playground equipment, installed on a bed of Playsafer rubber mulch, providing a soft and safe playground surface under the equipment, a great use of 21st century resources and frequently used on school and public playgrounds http://www.rubberecycle.com/.
The prospect of the completed new playground was clearly tantalizing for students. As the ribbon was cut, students surged forward, cheering in delight as they charged onto the play area, grade by grade, and attacked the attractive recreational equipment. It was one of those laugh-out-loud moments, watching the utter joy of those students.
Robert Brault said, “Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.”
source: http://www.cnjonline.com/news/forward-44703-looks-superintendent.html
Tags: Commercial playgrounds, playground safety, playground surfacing, rubber mulch, School Playgrounds
Posted in commercial playgrounds, Environment, playground flooring, Playground safety, playground surface, playground surfacing, Playsafer mulch, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle, Rubberecycle Manufacturer, Schools, tire mulch | Comments Off
Monday, June 27th, 2011
If you own a gardening or landscaping company or enjoy gardening and want to go into the business, this article is for you!
As a gardener (or to-be gardener), you’ve probably heard lots about Rubber Mulch. You’re probably pretty devoted to your costumers and would like to satisfy them too. In order to fully satisfy your costumers, you’ve got to learn the basics about Rubberecycle rubber mulch. You may have had plenty of unanswered questions, and you may be interested in hearing the truth about rubber mulch.
Gardeners and Landscapers will be thrilled to hear about the latest and greatest product on the market! Rubber Mulch is convenient and easy for gardeners to install. A huge plus is that you can mulch and keep your hands clean too! The mulch is rubber, and therefore involves no dirt or soil. It’s also weather resistant, which is a great way to catch the costumers eye. Rubber Mulch will stay through wind, rain, or shine! No matter what the weather, your Mulch is bound to stay in place! Also, plenty of people complain about the odor of Mulch and Rubber Mulch is odor-less (!!!) which makes it all much better. It’s also non – toxic which will keep you totally safe.
As the Gardener, you probably would appreciate if it took less time and got the same results. And that’s exactly what Rubber Mulch is! It’s quick and easy to install. You have to be sure to get the right amount and you’re set. Your costumers will be thrilled that it’ll take you so quick, and so will you! Rubber Mulch also fights weed growth which will leave you with half the job. It comes in a few different colors which is nice too.
Your costumers will love that and they’ll definitely be pleased. So Gardeners and Landscapers, and all those who plan on it, you should think about Rubberecycle Playsafer Rubber Mulch. Do it for yourself and for your costumers. You’ll both be thankful.
Tags: Environment, Gardening, landscape
Posted in Environment, Gardening, Garening, landscape, Mulch, playground surface, Playsafer mulch, Rubber, rubber mulch, tire mulch | Comments Off
Tuesday, June 21st, 2011
America’s Best Idea – the national parks – gets even better with several fee-free days at more than 100 national parks that usually charge entrance fees.
Today is the first day of summer and it’s fitting to get in free at U.S. National Parks, as part of the park system’s free entrance program. The park service is waiving fees to over 100 parks around the country. Find Free Entrance Days – Participating Parks (by state)
With one or several ecosystems not materially altered by human exploitation and occupation, where plant and animal species, geomorphological sites and habitats are of special scientific, educative and recreative interest or which contain a natural landscape of great beauty.
The highest competent authority of the country has taken steps to prevent or eliminate exploitation or occupation as soon as possible in the whole area and to effectively enforce the respect of ecological, geomorphological, or aesthetic features which have led to its establishment. Visitors are allowed to enter, under special conditions, for inspirational, educative, cultural, and recreative purposes.
A national park is a reserve of natural or semi-natural land, declared or owned by a government, that is restricted from most development and is set aside for human recreation and environmental protection.
In 1969 the IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources) declared a national park to be a relatively large area with particular defining characteristics.
The first effort by any government to set aside such protected lands was in the United States, on April 20, 1832, when President Andrew Jackson signed legislation to set aside four sections of land around what is now Hot Springs, Arkansas to protect the natural, thermal springs and adjoining mountainsides for the future disposal of the US government. It was known as the Hot Springs Reservation. However no legal authority was established and federal control of the area was not clearly established until 1877.
The next effort by any government to set aside such protected lands was, again, in the United States, when President Abraham Lincoln signed an Act of Congress on June 30, 1864, ceding the Yosemite Valley and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias (later becoming the Yosemite National Park) to the state of California.
Have a Happy Summer
Tags: Environment, Free Parks
Posted in Environment, landscape, Parks | Comments Off
Tuesday, May 31st, 2011
With the weather turning warm, we tend to be spending less time indoors, and more time outdoors. No matter what you do out there, there’s no denying the sense of relaxation the outdoors brings. For all those gardeners out there and even those who don’t like gardening, or just don’t have time, but still want their yard to look nice, this is your time of year! Some of us put hours into our gardens while some of us wish to but don’t have time and energy. It can also be quiet costly if you think about everything that goes into gardening.
One thing that’s been around for a while, and plenty of gardeners are pretty busy with, is mulching. Mulching is simple and could give a real nice look to you garden. The latest rubber mulch, is all the rage these days- and for good reasons! With tons of happy users, Rubber Mulch is taking over the gardening industry and changing it for the better. Being that it’s rubber, it’s clean and easy to handle. There’s no mess involved and it’s quick and easy to install.
Rubberecycle manufacturer of Playsafer that creates Rubber Mulch and on their web site they have a convenient Rubber Mulch Calculator. It’s basically the smartest way to insure that you purchase the right quantity, thereby avoiding a waste of your money. Rubber Mulch it’s great for our environment, just needs to be installed once and it’ll be good for years to come. Playsafer Rubber Mulch is maintenance free! It comes in a variety of different colors which can add some beautiful life to your garden and landscape. What’s more, your garden will stay put through all weather conditions, will not blow away or freeze during the winter month.
You can place the playsafer mulch in the summer and come winter, it’ll look as good as new. It’s also worth the price if you calculate how much it would be to go through with all the gardening supplies and even wood mulch, which you have to replace every so often. Rubber Mulch will also keep out weeds and keep only good nutrient in, which is fabulous for your garden. No matter what flooding , rain or snow storms, or wind, you can rest assured your garden will look lovely when the sun comes out.
Rubberecycle
I f you would like to find out more info regarding recycled rubber mulch you can contact
Rubberecycle.com
at
888-436-6846
732-363-0600
Fax: 732-370-4247
info at rubberecycle.com
Tags: Garden, Gardening, landscape, playsafer, rubber mulch, Rubberecycle
Posted in Environment, Gardening, landscape, Mulch, Playsafer mulch, Rubberecycle Manufacturer, tire mulch | Comments Off
