Oil from Algae?

There was recent news about the discovery of 200 marine dead zones all over the world. These dead zones occur when water becomes devoid of oxygen because algae have consumed it. The algae create the oxygen deficit because of their ability to prosper in polluted water that kills off all other marine life but them. With no competitors or predators to curb their numbers, the algae are free to grow uncontrolled and consume oxygen.

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Columbia Forest Products Introduces Formaldehyde-Free Plywood Panels

PORTLAND, Ore. – Columbia Forest Products has launched a new line of cost-competitive formaldehyde-free hardwood plywood panels called PureBond™.

“PureBond panels are cost-neutral with urea formaldehyde-manufactured plywood, and they offer better moisture resistance,” Columbia President of Plywood and Veneer Brad Thompson said. “We’re currently producing PureBond full-time in our three standard veneer-core facilities and are converting the rest of our plants to do the same. All should be completed by year-end.”

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First LEED Gold Hospital In U.S. Opens in Oregon

NEWBURG, Ore. — The recently completed Providence Newberg Medical Center here is the first LEED gold certified hospital in the United States. New Jersey-based contractor Skanska USA Building Inc. estimates that the “build green” portion of the $70 million project will take 14 months to amortize, and that the facility will save nearly 26 percent in annual energy costs.

The contractor provided additional value to the hospital owner through construction-related techniques that included:

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Rainforest Alliance Offers Guide to Green Building Wood Sources

WASHINGTON — To assist architects and contractors in finding green wood building products, from doors and decking to flooring and furniture, the Forest Stewardship Council has compiled the “SmartGuide to Green Building Wood Sources.” The guide, a comprehensive listing of all FSC-certified suppliers in North America, including contact, company and product information, can be downloaded for free at www.rainforestalliance.org/greenbuilding.

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Denver Museum Breaks Ground, Aims for LEED Gold

DENVER —The Museum of Contemporary Art broke ground on its new $15 million building set to open in June 2007.

The 27,000-square-foot facility, designed by architect David Adjaye, will house five galleries on two levels, which will hold exhibits from local, regional, national and international artists of the 21st century. Two additional spaces will be designated for educational purposes, one on the roof, with a garden, and one on the lower level. Mortenson Construction will manage construction of the facility.

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