Eco Worrier - Times Online - WBLG

Energy for all

Q: My roof is unsuitable for solar panels or a wind turbine. Are there any other options for making energy in the home?

You do-it-yourself energy generators don't give up easily, do you? Well, you're in luck. Not only is there is a new kind of micro-generator on the bloc, sending ripples through eco-circles (which, one way or another is all of us, these days), but there are also numerous ways of saving energy. Think laterally and this is only a small step away from making it; it certainly enables you to wear a large green badge, should you so wish. The point is you end up burning less fossil fuels while keeping your house functioning as cooler weather creeps closer.

Micro-generating

Q: I want to make my own energy. Is this feasible?

Such creative urges command respect. There are enough things to make at home (beds, suppers, packed lunches) without starting on energy generating. But when you consider that half of the electricity generated at remote plants is lost either in heat or in transmission, it makes sense to do the job at home.

How can I help Lebanon?

Q: I want to make a donation to help the situation in Lebanon. Any tips on choosing a charity?

Most of the big-name charities in the UK are now running Middle East crisis appeals, aimed at providing relief for people across the region, in Gaza and Israel as well as Lebanon. They distribute according to need, though, leaving politics at the door. To refine your choice, there is a lot to be said for supporting a children's charity, since almost half of those killed or injured in Lebanon have been children.

Hot and thirsty

Q: Help! I’ve become dependent on handy-sized bottles of mineral water.

Don’t sweat it. At this time of year, the best of us find ourselves eyeing up Evian bottles in chilled refrigerators. That, though, is the point at which we are supposed to whip out an equally refreshing refilled bottle of tap water from our handbags (or manbags) and turn on our heels, patting ourselves on the back for saving our pennies as well as our planet.