Going Green 2021 by Ian Coles

BERMUDA’S FIRST GUIDE TO A GREENER LIFESTYLE cc GoingGreen

GoingGreen Priceless

fourteenth edition 2021

Why aren’t we driving more electric vehicles? Fast fashion and the environment The destruction of Mangrove Lake

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GoingGreen contents

Contents Page 3

Water The better choice for Bermuda Page 4

Go Green 13 simple steps Page 10

Electric Cars What’s holding Bermuda back?

4 Page 16

16 Page 14

Destruction of Mangrove Lake Controversy over Judkin Lane development

Going Green 14th edition 2021 Publisher: Ian Coles Director of Marketing: Lissa Fisher Art Director: Tim Parker Writers: Peter Backeberg, Tim Smith

Fossil Fuels Can Bermuda ever quit fossil fuels? Page 20

Fast Fashion How it’s hurting the environment Published by Bermuda Media, 8 Par la Ville Road, Hamilton HM 11, Bermuda. Tel: 441-292-7279. Email: hello@bm.bm www.bermudamedia.bm.

Printed in the US on paper approved by the Forest Stewardship Council with mixed content Views expressed within are those of the respective contributors and not RIGIWWEVMP] WLEVIH F] XLI QEKE^MRI SV WXEǺ Associated Media: Bermuda Business Visitor, New Resident Guide, Your Future, Bermuda Real Estate Handbook, Building Bermuda, House Garden Kitchen and 'EXL =SYV 4ǽGI MR 'IVQYHE -IEPXL 'IEYX] 8LI 'IVQYHE (LERRIP

Going Green 2021

water GoingGreen

Bottled Water that’s Better for Bermuda

another decorative option. All of these models dispense water at a pleasant room temperature. Bermuda Waterworks also provides piped metered water, 100% of which is manufactured by reverse osmosis. This process requires electricity. However, over time, new and energy-efﬁcient equipment has been installed in order to reduce our consumption of fossil fuels. The company encourages residents to use its utility water wisely as a top-up supply. A new self service vending machine has been installed. It dispenses Pure Water and Pure Ice. Clients can bring their reusable empty bottles and purchase water. Clients can even reuse their cap if they wish. Going green made easier with budget friendly options. For more than 85 years, Bermuda Waterworks has manufactured water to meet the island’s growing needs. The company will continue to do its part in making water production as green and efﬁcient as possible.

Bermuda Waterworks explains why its bottled water is an excellent choice for those concerned about our environment

he bottled water industry was going green long before the term became popular. Through its home and office segment, the industry has demonstrated a significant impact on reducing pollution through the repeated use of its bottles until their life cycle is completed. Bermuda Waterworks manufactures bottled water in reusable 3- and 5-gallon containers. The company repurchases used bottles in order to encourage clients to return them in good condition for a full credit on their next transaction. Empty bottles should only be refilled with Pure Water. They are not meant to hold trash or other liquids such as drink mixes — a popular choice at picnics. A bottle that has been used for drink mix cannot be reused by Bermuda Waterworks. The company encourages clients to contact them if they need rejected

Going Green 2021

bottles for any sports or fundraising events. Bermuda Waterworks’ most popular water cooler is Energy Star rated. These coolers help residents and businesses reduce their energy bills, and can help make a difference for the environment. This is because products that earn the Energy Star prevent greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efﬁciency guidelines set by the US Environmental and Protection Agency. These energy efﬁcient coolers are available in room temperature/ cold and hot/cold models. The company also sells water-dispensing equipment that do not require any electricity. There is the very popular dolphin pump, where water is manually pumped out of the bottle. There is also the compact cradle and valve that sit perfectly on any counter. The ceramic crockpot is

HOURS OF OPERATION

GoingGreen environmental cc impact

Go green with these 13 simple steps Use energy-efﬁcient window treatments, such as ﬁlm that rejects heat, install awnings and shutters on the outside, and consider planting trees and bushes that will provide shade on your property.

The oldest trick in the book is to turn off lights and other devices when you leave a room. Not only do we mean turning off consumer electronics and appliances but also unplugging everything so they don’t draw vampire power. This includes charging devices for your phone, laptop, smart watch, and other electronics.

Set your water heater at a lower temperature: 120-degrees Fahrenheit is often suggested as the maximum temperature at which the thermostat should be set. Try a lower setting if you can.

Save energy by switching all your lightbulbs to LED. They use 25% – 80% less energy than traditional incandescents.

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If you drive a car or scooter to work, ﬁnd a buddy to carpool, use public transport, or even ride a bicycle. If your place of work is only a mile or two from home, challenge yourself to walk once a week.

If possible, dry your washing outside. Condo complexes in Bermuda often do not allow this, and of course the weather doesn’t always cooperate. But when you can, ditch the indoor dryer.

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Embrace meatless Mondays. You don’t have to become a vegetarian or vegan but committing to a few plantbased meals each week can help reduce your carbon footprint. The cattle raised for human consumption are substantial drivers of climate change. Reducing dairy in your diet will also help the environment.

Don’t let your dishwasher automatically dry your dishes. Turn off the heated dry option, open the dishwasher door, and let them dry naturally.

8 ȟ

Run your clothes wash in cold water. There are several detergents made speciﬁcally for this purpose. Going Green 2021

Tide is running a #TurnToCold campaign and claims you will save a considerable amount of money on your electricity bill by doing so.

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GREEN 10

Don’t preheat your oven before cooking. Only a few foods need to be hit with a high level of heat right off the bat – bread, for example. Casseroles, roasts, vegetables, and many other dishes can be put in the oven before it’s heated. Simply adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Tops Ltd is demonstrating a strong commitment to adopting a greener workplace and we encourage other companies to do the same for our environment.

16 Mill Creek Road, Pembroke

T. 292-5500

Reuse, recyle, reduce. We are fortunate to have several “thrift” stores on the island. Don’t throw away anything they will accept. Likewise, don’t shop for anything new until you visit and see if they have what you need.

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Pay all your bills online. Online bill paying saves paper – no check, stamp, envelope, or bill in the mail – and it avoids the use of fossil fuels to deliver the mail.

F. 292-6200

E. info@topsltd.bm

www.tops.bm

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Choose cloth over paper. Stop using paper towels and invest in brand-new and super-durable cloth towels. Or use recycled old T-shirts. You can also use cloth napkins instead of paper.

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Going Green 2021

GoingGreen environmental solar energy impact

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olar Gard’s window ﬁlm rejects heat and keeps interior temperatures stable, allowing you to cut cooling costs and energy consumption. By adding this ﬁlm to your windows, you can reduce

cooling costs by up to 30%. Costs Installing Solar Gard’s ﬁlm on your windows costs a fraction of replacing them, making this one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce energy consumption

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and increase the comfort inside your home or office. On average, installing this window film is four times less costly than installing new windows. Carbon Cost The carbon cost of one square metre of Solar Gard’s window film is less than 10 kilograms. By comparison, a low-e, wood-frame window has a carbon cost of approximately 444 kilograms per square metre. Greenhouse Gases According to independently verified research, Solar Gard’s window film saves 100 times more greenhouse gas emissions from entering the atmosphere than are used or created during the film’s manufacturing. UV Protection Solar Gard’s window film filters visible light and blocks more than 99% of the harmful ultraviolet (UV) light associated with premature aging and skin cancer. With an SPF of 285+, this film can also protect furnishings, carpets and other household items from fading and damage due to UV exposure. Solar Gard’s film is also a good choice for your office, whether your goal is to reduce operating costs, decrease carbon emissions or create a more comfortable and productive environment for your staff. A building’s windows offer one of the best opportunities for a solid return on investment for energy savings. Solar energy enters through windows and causes heat to build up inside the building, leading to uncomfortable hotspots and an increased need for air conditioning. With proven heat-rejection properties, Solar Gard’s film can help your business reduce energy for cooling by up to 30%. The film will keep interior temperatures more stable and reduce the need for air conditioning while moderating peak usage and allowing your cooling system to operate more efficiently. Less costly than installing new windows and more efficient than low-e coatings at rejecting solar heat, Solar Gard’s film transforms standard office glass into highperformance windows. Going Green 2021

environmental impact GoingGreen

A New Green Paving System for Bermuda

orsfield Landscape & Design Ltd. has been installing modular concrete pavers for commercial and residential driveways, walkways, patios and plazas for more than 40 years and has recently introduced new paver technology from hydroPAVERS® to the island. hydroPAVERS® are permeable pavers made from recycled crushed ceramic tiles and a natural bonding agent that allow water to permeate through the entire paver surface. They can absorb a ¼” rain event and the ground underneath the pavers will become a source of water storage. This is revolutionary as surfaces using concrete, asphalt of modular concrete pavers are not free-draining, which can create puddles and flash flooding after heavy rain fall. General Manager of Horsfield Landscape & Design Ltd. Kevin Horsfield say “ We are delighted to become the local dealer and bring this green product to the island. hydroPAVERS® are a truly remarkable paving system that has many benefits: Rainwater seeps through them into the base below the pavers assisting hydration of surrounding plants. No puddles or flash flood drainage issues anymore.

Going Green 2021

Another beneﬁt is that the porous structure of the pavers reduces noise, thus they are ideal for urban areas. Porous pavers also reduce heat especially after heavy rainfalls in the summer. The pavers are attractive, come in many different colours and styles. They are non-slip, perfect for around swimming pools, patios, walkways driveways and parking lots. Due to the ceramic nature of the pavers, clean-up of tire marks or oil stains is easily accomplished which we see as bonus especially in commercial applications.” Walter Hermann, President of hydroPAVERS® Inc. says ”We are delighted to welcome Kevin Horsﬁeld as our hydroPAVERS® representative in beautiful Bermuda. Kevin brings with him dedication and a wealth of experience and knowledge. We are already working together in Bermuda providing advanced solutions

and benefits of a true permeable/ pervious technology.” Horsfield’s first commercial installation using hydroPAVERS® is located at the BUE showroom on Mills Reach Lane in Pembroke, and the result of a design concept by Jennifer Davidson, Chartered Landscape Architect at OBMI (bermuda.obmi.com). Jennifer selected the product as they were “the perfect choice for the parking spaces outside the new BUE showroom because hydroPAVERS® addressed the stormwater management concerns in the flood prone area. The hydroPAVERS® allow any rain to be absorbed on site rather than contributing to the problem.” In addition to the product’s water absorption features, Jennifer was influenced by the recycled aspect of the pavers along with the design and colour options, and its durability. For more information visit hydropavers.bm, kevin@hydropavers.bm or www.horsfieldlandscape.com

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Commercial & Residential

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solar energy GoingGreen

Bermuda’s largest solar installer keeps growing A

ES has long been the largest provider of solar energy on the island, with more solar PV capacity installed than all other local providers combined. And in the past 12 months has increased its capacity by more than 30%, with several Government and other commercial contracts adding another 1 MW (megawatt) to its portfolio of installations. AES will shortly be installing solar panels on the Government Administration Building on Parliament Street and the adjacent Post Ofﬁce building on Church Street. But perhaps the most interesting installation is at the Bus Garage on Palmetto Road. “The Department of Public Transport is purchasing a ﬂeet of electric buses and the solar panels on the roof of the garage will be used for charging the electric buses” says Tim Madeiros, founder and CEO of AES. “We believe this will lead to a dramatic decrease in operating expenses. By using solar energy, and not BELCO, the DPT will enjoy considerable cost savings in charging the electric bus batteries. The roof of the garage is large enough for us to install panels that

The largest commercial solar installations on the island supplied and installed by AES WEDCO 585kW Gorhams 500kW 1MRHSƶW O; ,SWPMRKW O; Saltus 70kW BELCO 70kW Greybar Building 70kW :EPPMW 'YMPHMRK O; BVS 15kW Aquarium 11kW

Going Green 2021

AES solar panels on the roof of the bus garage [MPP GLEVKI XLI RI[ ǼIIX SJ IPIGXVMG FYWIW 5MGXYVI shown for illustration purposes only. Actual buses and how they are charged will vary)

will produce almost 500kW, which will make it one of the top three or four of the largest installations on the island.” Asked why AES is so successful in winning the largest and most prestigious solar contracts, Mr. Madeiros says that the SunPower panels speak for themselves. “We have done real world comparisons with other panels over the years, and the SunPower systems return double the investment over other panels. Compared with SunPower, other panels degrade quite considerably more over time, generating less and less power each year. Like anything, it’s the quality of the product — you get what you pay for. For example, other manufacturers try to lower their costs, and some may promise the panels will perform in the long term, but when they don’t deliver over 10 or 15 years, there’s no real recourse for the purchaser. So buying cheaper panels may

be tempting, but over time the return on investment is very often signiﬁcantly less than the SunPower panels we use at AES. That’s because the cheaper panels degrade over time and end up not producing the power they promise. SunPower have been in the solar manufacturing business for 40 years and have a stellar track record.” SunPower provides a 25-year warranty on power output, plus workmanship. “In other words” says Mr. Madeiros, “the SunPower warranty covers not only the power output, but the entire panel. So if the panel somehow loses its structural integrity — which I have not seen in my 13 years of installing these systems — it’s completely covered by the warranty. You truly get a 25-year warranty that includes shipping to Bermuda and the labour to replace. No other manufacturer offers this coverage, and no other company in Bermuda is able to offer this value”. 9

GoingGreen electric cars

Why is Bermuda so slow to take up electric car adoption? If electric vehicles are the future, is it public hesitancy, auto dealers or TCD who are holding back progress? Tim Smith investigates.

t may be frequently touted as an ideal location for a green revolution, but the road towards electric vehicles has proved far from smooth in Bermuda. Major carmakers Ford and Jaguar in Europe have promised all-electric vehicle line-ups within the next decade as international regulators clamp down on emissions, while in the United States the electric Tesla has surged in popularity to become the most valuable car company in the world. Yet the roads in Bermuda – chieﬂy populated by residents making trips of no more than 10 miles for whom electric vehicles might seem perfect – remain packed with internal combustion engine cars and bikes. The reason for the slow progress, according to energy experts at the Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI), has been a combination of availability, cost and customer behaviour since electric vehicles started to emerge in the 1990s. But according to one dealership manager, the failure to go green on the island in recent times has not been because of a shortage of demand. Glen Smith, the Managing Director at Auto Solutions in Pembroke, says: “Every day, we get clients coming in asking for electric cars. They know what cars are on the market, they see it in the UK, they see it in Europe and they say, ‘Why can’t we get it here?’” Smith argues a minor adjustment to size restrictions imposed by the Bermuda Government would instantly allow a ﬂurry of electric vehicles on to the market at a price many would be prepared to pay. “I get it – we are only 21 square miles and the roads are so narrow,” he says. “However, that’s the issue. 10

“Millennials and the Generation Ex are pretty conscientious about the environment and anyone with an income of $200,000 and up is interested in electric vehicles because they see the value of the savings.” The Bermuda Automobile Dealers Association has lobbied the Government to increase the maximum size allowed by two inches in length and one inch in width to accommodate electric vehicles currently deemed too large. “We would have access to three full electric vehicles to line up in our showroom,” Smith says. The Government suggests the request is under consideration. “We can advise that the speciﬁcations for electric vehicles are included in the review that the Transport Control Department is carrying out as part of the Modernisation of the Motor Car Act 1951,” a spokeswoman says. Auto Solutions imported ten electric Nissan Leafs three years ago and sold them all quickly for between $40,000 and $50,000. However, in 2019, manufacturers increased the car’s length by less than an inch –

enough to take it over Bermuda’s limit. “It’s been a very popular model worldwide and would have done well in our inventory line-up,” Smith says. “Very frustrating.” An alternative electric car, the Ioniq Hyundai, is also too long and too wide by less than an inch. Auto Solutions hopes later this year to release the Hyundai Kona, which ﬁts within the existing restrictions, but says it is in the hands of manufacturers who have grouped Bermuda with Latin America and the Caribbean, where there has been less interest in electric vehicles than Europe. Stephen Davidge of Eurocar Ltd. says manufacturers are increasing the wheelbase of cars in order to create room for batteries that are typically nestled along the length of the chassis ﬂoor. “Because ‘range anxiety’ is an issue in most countries — but not in Bermuda of course — the larger batteries that can be installed, the greater the range. Which is why we’re seeing the size of the electric versions of the cars we typically import to the island increase slightly, relative to the gas

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Going Green 2020

electric cars GoingGreen 8LI 7IREYPX >SI SǺIVIH F] *YVSGEV 1XH

versions. Size changes have been discussed with TCD and hopefully they will recognise this issue and accept that the size restrictions for electric vehicles will have to be increased if we are to fully embrace electric vehicles in Bermuda. For example, the Mercedes-Benz EQA is the smallest EV it produces and is too big under the existing size restrictions.” Eurocar Ltd. currently offers the Renault Zoe, that has been around for a few years, but Davidge says the new model is proving more and more popular. “This year’s model has had a facelift and many added features such as leather upholstery and a more luxurious interior. It also has front and rear sensors, rear camera, push button start, keyless entry, and many other very high-end spec’s. We also have the Kangoo EV for commercial use. We will also have the electric Renault Twizy arriving soon for sale as a TCD ‘A’ class car. Plus new models of the Clio and Captur in hybrid versions.” Going Green 2020

Davidge says Eurocar Ltd. has been approached by many customers who would like to see the electric Twizy licensed as a motorcycle to keep younger riders safer on the road, but currently it is regarded as a quadricycle by TCD. Another electric vehicle has also been available through entrepreneur Richard Simon, who imported ten ECO EV1 vehicles in March. In February this year, 514 electric vehicles and 63 hybrids were licensed in Bermuda – about 1 per cent of the total number of cars, vans, trucks and bikes. These included 235 private cars, an increase of 33 per cent in the past year, as well as 33 e-vans and 53 bikes or scooters. Lawrence Scott, the Transport Minister, announced in March that the ﬁrst of 30 electric buses was scheduled to arrive in Bermuda this year, but the Government could not provide further details until a contract is signed. In its Transport Green Paper in

2019, the Government announced it would develop a strategy for Bermuda to transition all internal combustion engine vehicles to electric vehicles. At that time, it pledged to consider incentives over price, fees, insurance and duty. Asked for an update, a Government spokeswoman says more details would be released in its Mobility Strategy this summer. EJ Klock-McCook, a carbon free mobility expert at the RMI, which has been advising the Government on its energy plans, says: “There’s been a lot of challenges around electric vehicles’ availability in the market. “What’s available through supply chains and what’s available throughout the world are not necessarily the same thing. “Having those vehicles on the ground and easily available for purchase potentially makes a difference.” Chuck Ray, another carbon free mobility expert at the RMI, believes 11

GoingGreen electric cars demand is now growing. “Some of the technology has been unknown so that’s going to inhibit demand,” he says. “I think we are seeing proof in the market. People are seeing their friends and families using vehicles and talking about them. “It’s as much psychological as anything. To try something new is a bit of a risk. If you just want a car to get you from Point A to Point B, you don’t want to change your habits.” The move towards electric motorcycles has not been any easier. World Distributors, which leads the way in electric bikes on the island, has sold between 50 and 70 in the past two years. It did, however, introduce the twobattery new V-Moto CPx in March, a 125cc bike which can hit a top speed of 70 miles per hour. Eugene Bothello, President of World Distributors, says: “Bermuda is a hilly place. A few years ago electric bikes didn’t have the lifting and battery for Bermuda’s hills.

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“But all the technology is progressing quite rapidly. The V-Moto CPx is one of the more cutting-edge models that are out there. I think we are in a new age now. The technology is there for city driving or for an island of our size. “Everybody wants what they want. You are still going to get the individual that wants to purchase a petrol power bike just because of the style or because that’s what they are used to. “As a business owner you have

to be sure that the models you are importing are attractive to your market. “But now you have people who are more aware of the impact on the environment, especially the younger generation. With the style improving and the range improving, I think we are going to see more and more people buying electric bikes.” Dealerships themselves will face transition as electric vehicles become the norm, and some of it may be painful. Auto Solutions staff have already been trained to deal with the Nissan Leaf and a full electric vehicle servicing room is set up. “Electric vehicles really beneﬁt the purchaser,” Smith says. “You don’t need to come in twice a year for oil change. You just need to tweak it with a computer, change the brake shoes, rotate the tyres. That’s about it. “The reality is we won’t need as many technicians as we have here now. But if we want to be progressive, we have to embrace change.”

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Going Green 2021

environment cc GoingGreen

Cool your space green A Wayne Clapham of HVAC Shack explains why a SEER rating is important

n average of 35% of electricity consumption in homes goes to airconditioning. So how can you save money and help the planet? One way is to invest in a high SEER-rated air-conditioner, but what is a SEER rating? SEER is the abbreviation for Seasonal Energy Efﬁciency Ratio, and it is calculated from the cooling output during a typical cooling-season divided by the total electric energy input during the same period. It is important to distinguish that it is the

average calculated over a season and is ﬁgured out under laboratorysimulated conditions. It is likened to the mpg (miles per gallon) ratings on cars, and, although mpg can vary depending on how you drive, it does offer a clear indication of

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the fuel efficiency possible. You can have the highest SEERrated air-conditioner on the island, but, if it has dirty filters, blades, or coil surfaces, it will not achieve those energy savings. Regular maintenance is critical for continued high efficiencies. You will find that higher SEER-rated systems come with a higher price tag. But often, within two to three years, the initial extra expense is recovered through lower running costs that not only save money but also contribute to a greener, cleaner planet. www.hvacbda.com. Tel: 234 6227

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Going Green 2021

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GoingGreen environmental impact

The destruction of Mangrove Lake Karen Border, President of the Bermuda Audubon Society on the Judkin Lane controversy

he Bermuda Audubon Society is very disappointed to learn that the Minister of Home Affairs, Walter Roban, has once again decided to overturn a decision of the Development Applications Board, this time to allow a private individual, Nelson Cordeiro, to build a large house and pool on lands zoned Woodland Reserve on Judkin Lane, near Mangrove Lake. This decision goes directly against the recommendations of his own planning department and the recommendations of the independent planning inspector brought in to review the appeal. When the minister granted Mr. Cordeiro permission to quarry the site for slate a year ago — again against the recommendation of a (different) independent planning inspector — he cited “national interest” as the reason for his decision. National interest cannot justify his approval for a large private house, with pool and other structures, described by the inspector as a case of “extreme overdevelopment which is not sensitive to the importance placed on this conservation area”. The approved development serves only the developer’s interest; everyone else loses. This once-forested hillside lot sits amid one of the largest areas of natural open space in Bermuda. What was a supposedly a protected area of Woodland Reserve was allowed to be completely deforested, then turned into an open scar through quarrying, and now will be almost wholly covered in man-made structures. Why does this matter? Large

swaths of continuous open space are critical for the health and sustainability of our natural flora and fauna. Trees absorb carbon and help to mitigate climate change. Woodlands also form wind breaks, protect agricultural fields and help to cool our island. They form a significant part of the natural beauty of Bermuda, providing enjoyment for both Bermudians and those who come to visit our special island. Conservation zonings were put in place to protect just such areas. To ignore these zonings and override the expert advice of both local and independent planners makes a travesty of Bermuda’s entire planning framework. The existing Bermuda Plan gives the Development Applications Board discretion to allow a single detached house in a conservation zone such as Woodland Reserve, so that the property owner would not suffer significant economic loss owing to the conservation zoning. However, the plan requires that such a development be kept to a practical minimum and that the siting, scale

and massing would be sensitive to the Conservation Area status of the lot and surrounding area. The present approval has no regard for these limitations, as noted by the independent inspector. Indeed, since Mr Cordeiro has already benefited economically from the lot through quarrying, he could have been reasonably denied permission to build on it at all, and been required to remediate it to a natural state. In the future, we hope that government ministers will see that it is in Bermuda’s national interest to adhere to the conservation objectives of our planning legislation. We cannot afford to continue to lose more of our conservation lands. Allowing a few individuals to profit economically at the expense of our natural environment is an offence to the majority of Bermudians who must abide by planning legislation, and a betrayal of future generations. We urge the public to speak up, talk with their MPs and join us in the fight to protect what is left of our natural heritage. Going Green 2021

Immune support GoingGreen

Boost your immune system naturally Tania Kowalski says look to the bees and Lindo’s to boost your immunity to infectious diseases

id you know that bees line their hives with a resinous mixture called propolis which is known as the immune system of the hive? Propolis is known as ‘bee glue’ which literally holds the hive together, sealing holes and cracks in the hive while protecting the bees from outside germs. Propolis contains more than 300 compounds known for supporting immunity. Studies show that propolis has antifungal, antibacterial, antiseptic, anti-inﬂammatory, and immune enhancing properties. My grandfather was a beekeeper and was always expounding the wonders of bees and their natural compounds, so bee products are near and dear to my heart, which is why I’m extra excited to share a new product line that Lindo’s has just recently introduced by Beekeepers Naturals. I’ve been using and loving the Beekeepers products for a few years now and am thrilled to have them here in Bermuda to share with you. The lineup includes; a Propolis Throat Spray for daily immune support and to soothe a sore or scratchy throat, B Powered Superfood Honey for non-caffeinated energy, and B.Chill honey with hemp to induce a sense of calm and better sleep. Another two of my very faves are the Bee Pollen for energy and recovery (great for around your workout) and B.LXR for brain fuel,

Going Green 2021

focus, and productivity (yes please). What else can we do to boost immunity? BEE Kind. Bees are an incredible example of teamwork. In a single colony, there can be thousands of bees that need to work together in order to survive and thrive. Ensure that you have a supportive network of friends and family in your life, connection is so important to good health. It’s also very important to be kind to yourself — to give yourself some love and compassion. I promise that you are not alone in experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions during this time. Give yourself permission to BE, to FEEL, and to FORGIVE yourself for anything that you may be holding onto so that you can move through your emotions. BEE Happy. Identify what you’re doing when you’re truly feeling your best. What foods are you eating? How are you moving? How are you reducing and working through stress? What activities are you making time for? Be sure to make the time to do more of the things that make you feel good long term. BEE Healthy. What is the status of your sleep and how can you improve it? Alcohol, stress, caffeine, screens/blue light… these can all wreak havoc on your sleep. Identify your barriers to deep, dreamy, restorative sleep and work to remove

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them. Busy bees need good quality sleep. Choose nutrient dense foods and eliminate nutrient deficiencies. Bee pollen, royal jelly, and propolis are some of nature’s most nutrient dense foods. Bee pollen is loaded with a wide variety of antioxidants to reduce inflammation, to help to fight infections, and to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. Choose pre and probiotic foods to nourish your gut and improve immunity. Bee pollen and royal jelly have also shown to stimulate important probiotic gut bacteria. This COVID pandemic is yet another important reminder of the importance of boosting immunity through our lifestyle choices. When you’re focused on balanced nutrition and fitness, improving sleep, keeping stress in check, and having a support network of supportive family and friends in your hive, you’re well on your way to increased immunity, better energy, better health, and an overall happier life. 8ERME 0S[EPWOM MW E LIEPXL GSEGL ERH [IPPRIWW GSRWYPXERX JSV 1MRHSW Facebook: www.facebook.com/taniakfitness/. Instagram: www.instagram.com/taniakfitness/ Lindo’s Facebook: www.facebook.com/LindosBermuda/ Lindo’s Instagram: www.instagram.com/lindosbermuda/ Beekeepers Facebook: www.facebook.com/BeekeepersNaturals/ Beekeepers Instagram: www.instagram.com/beekeepers_naturals/

GoingGreen energy

Can Bermuda ever quit fossil fuels? Peter Backeberg explores the past, present, and future of fossil fuels

udging by the actions of Bermuda’s policymakers and regulators, it would appear that transitioning away from a fossilfuel-powered energy system is a fait accompli, more a matter of when rather than if. But what does this mean for the Island? With so many of our everyday processes and conveniences deeply influenced by the use of fossil fuels, not to mention the impact on our economy – from the delivery of goods and services to government revenue and energy sector jobs – this transition will be felt across the community. When we think of fossil fuels in the modern context, we are usually referring to oil, coal, and natural gas, which is extracted from the earth and refined to drive all sorts of internal combustion engines, big and small. In Bermuda, we don’t consume coal or liquefied natural gas (LNG). We also don’t produce oil products, so we must import and store enough petrol, diesel, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to power our homes, offices, and automobiles and to cook our food. The origin of fossil fuels is quite fascinating and the name literal. Coal, crude oil, and natural gas are all considered fossil fuels because they were formed from the fossilised, buried remains of plants and animals that lived millions of years ago; as a result, fossil fuels have a high carbon content. That ancient and decayed life is the energy source of modern life

could be viewed as fittingly cyclical. The problem, while still debated but generally accepted in scientific circles, is that burning mass amounts of carbon-heavy materials is throwing our atmosphere and oceans out of balance at a rate that is considered at least dangerous and at worst catastrophic. Unfortunately for Bermuda, this global impact is generated by consumption that happens beyond our shores and out of our control. This does not mean local reliance on fossil fuels is of no concern for Bermuda’s residents. For instance, the notoriously fickle nature of oil prices and supply are considered a threat to Bermuda’s energy security. If we were to buck the international trend toward renewable energy sources, would this decrease the reliability of our energy supply? Additionally, there is the local impact on air quality and threat to biodiversity, not to mention a sense of responsibility to be part of a movement to ensure life as we know it. In 2019, with Bermuda’s energy future in mind, the Regulatory Authority (RA), which regulates the local electricity sector, released an integrated resource plan (IRP) with a clearly stated intention of achieving 85% renewable energy sources by 2035. This document is already having an impact. When BELCO considered transitioning part of its plant to LNG, which is considered the “cleanest” of the fossil fuels, the IRP did not include LNG as a future energy option for Bermuda.

Subsequently, the company upgraded with 56MW of new fuel oil capacity. These new engines will continue to provide “baseload” capacity as the transition occurs and also allow BELCO to decommission its older and less-efﬁcient engines. For now, Bermuda remains heavily reliant on fossil fuels. According to a 2015 report to the Bermuda government by Castalia Strategic Advisors (exploring the viability of Going Green 2021

energy GoingGreen

LNG in Bermuda), Bermuda imports oil products (e.g., 1.6 million barrels in 2014) to meet nearly all of its energy needs. Electricity generation accounts for 54% of oil use, and the transportation sector consumes another 44%. Heavy fuel oil accounts for 40% of these imports, diesel 36%, premium gasoline 12%, and jet A1 fuel 9%. Of course, all that oil does not come cheap, with Bermuda spending Going Green 2021

approximately $100 million each year on imported fuels, and retail fuel prices in Bermuda among the highest in the world. In February 2012, the average retail price for a litre of gasoline was $2.06; by comparison, in the United States it was $0.92, and that ratio has not improved in recent years. A reasonable portion of that cost is government tax. At present, that tax sits at $0.75/litre of gasoline and

$0.55/litre of diesel, so any major reduction in fuel use will have an impact on government revenue. With vehicular trafﬁc consuming 44% of imported fuels and at signiﬁcant cost, a move to electrical vehicles (EVs) would seem logical for the Island’s residents. Adoption in this area, however, is proving slow. As of February this year, of the 48,944 licensed vehicles on Bermuda’s roads, there are only 514 EVs and 17

GoingGreen energy 'IVQYHEƶW ǻVWX PEVKI WGEPI WSPEV JEVQ

63 hybrids. This despite a 0% duty rate on EVs that keeps their prices relatively competitive and the cost of powering EVs (fuel purchase vs charging batteries) being about onethird for the EV. Cost is not the only consideration for vehicle choice, with the Department of Energy and National Resources (DENR) data indicating the clear impact of fuel combustion on the quality of air in Bermuda. Interestingly, the lockdown and other restrictions due to the COVID pandemic have illustrated quite clearly the impact of fuel combustion '*1(4 LEW VIGIRXP] MRWXEPPIH RI[ SMP JYIPIH IRKMRIW

on local air quality. In the summer 2020 edition of DENR’s EvironTalk newsletter, DENR environmental engineer Dr. Geoff Smith highlighted the contrasts in measured chemicals in the air from March 2020 compared with the same period in 2019. The article reads: “With the signiﬁcant reduction in vehicular trafﬁc during the COVID-19 shelter in place the concentrations of nitrogen dioxide at East Broadway showed a dramatic reduction. This data suggests that vehicles at the busy road area of East Broadway

are a major source of NO2, but the concentrations fall within the hourly, 24-hourly and annual limits of Bermuda’s regulations.” Measurements of sulphur dioxide at the same location found even greater variance from year to year with “with concentrations rising by a factor of 70.” Again, the article says these levels fall within Bermuda’s Clean Air Regulations 1993, “suggesting that the current sulphur limits in fuel for vehicles is sufficient to ensure that sulphur dioxide is not a significant health concern from road traffic in Bermuda.” The DENR conducts similar monitoring of the smoke stacks at the Belco facility to ensure that, despite the ongoing impact on the surrounding neighbourhoods, the emissions are within current regulations and that Belco meets its obligations accordingly. Clearly, fossil fuels are a significant factor in life in Bermuda. Currently, new policies and practices are taking shape that will see Bermuda transition to more reliance on renewable sources, and the impacts of that transition will be felt for generations to come. Going Green 2021

recycling cc GoingGreen

Zurich Bermuda on a mission An environmental mission, that is, to help the Island and the planet

e’ve all heard about reducing our carbon footprint. Zurich Bermuda is achieving this by literally reducing the footprint of its office space, focusing on sustainability and meeting the needs of the present without impacting the environment for future generations. Office manager Laurie Hudson says, “By reducing the size of our office, we’re simultaneously reducing our energy use and so much more.” Hudson points out that, although the physical space is being reduced, the head count at Zurich Bermuda remains the same. “With the help and advice of Commercial Interiors Group (CIG), we carefully examined our use of space, and, while keeping in mind the need to social distance due to COVID, our floor space is being more efficiently configured.” Although some furniture and the carpet needed to be replaced due to normal wear over the years, wherever possible, Zurich is repurposing and recycling. “We determined that we are able to reuse all of the millwork, frames, doors, glass, and some other items,” says Hudson. “And the items we are discarding are first offered to staff then to charities, so we hope that they can continue to be put to good use.” The lighting is being replaced with energy-saving LED, and all individual trash bins are being removed from under desks and replaced with a few larger central bins. Zurich estimates that this could save up to 25,000 plastic bin liners a year. This follows on from an earlier initiative to reduce the volume of Going Green 2021

printing and paper by removing personal, individual printers from staff desks and installing two larger sophisticated printers in central areas, to which staff send their documents for printing.

Last year, Zurich Bermuda removed all disposable and singleuse paper and plastic plates, coffee cups, utensils, and other items from its kitchen and replaced them with china and silverware. Single-use water bottles were also removed from the office and meeting rooms. Instead, staff were offered their own 24-oz stainlesssteel water bottles, which they can refill from either the larger Pure Water coolers or filtered water from a faucet in the kitchen. Outside of its office, Zurich Bermuda is supporting environmental efforts in the wider community as well. Last year, volunteers helped plant dozens of trees at Eve’s Pond in Hamilton Parish. This summer, if COVID restrictions allow, it will plant dozens more and work with KBB on a marine clean-up day. “These are just some of the ways Zurich Bermuda is helping to enrich our island,” adds Hudson, “with more initiatives on the way.”

Sustainability for our future.

GoingGreen environmental impact

Fast Fashion Anneke Wolf, a member of the Hiscox Green Team looks at XLI HIXVMQIRXEP IǺIGXW SR XLI IRZMVSRQIRX

ast Fashion is a manufacturing, design, and marketing method adopted in the late 1990s and early 2000s that focusses on rapidly producing high volumes of clothing. The fashion year used to comprise of four seasons (spring, summer, autumn, and winter), and now there are as many as 52 micro-seasons a year. Companies like Zara, Boohoo, H&M, and Gap push a new line on a weekly basis, encouraging shoppers to see clothes as disposable items. The ability to quickly replicate runway trends and the utilisation of low-quality materials enables companies to bring inexpensive products to the public at an alarming rate. Why wear what you wore last week when you can have something new? With the rise in these trendy, cheaply made garments, there has been an industry-wide push toward overwhelming quantities of consumption. Inevitably, this has

harmful and far-reaching impacts on the environment, garment workers, and ultimately peoples’ wallets. Production rates are so high that mountains of clothes are burned when they cannot be sold, even at ludicrously low prices. In 2015 alone, the fashion industry produced 100 billion items of clothing for 7 billion people. The rise of synthetic fabrics in Fast Fashion has cascading negative effects for the environment. They are manufactured using unsustainable oil-based products that take thousands of years to break down. Toxic chemicals and dyes are used, which make their way into water supplies and landﬁll. The average American generates 82 pounds of textile waste a year, adding up to 11 million tons of discarded clothing annually, just from the United States alone. These items will be here for thousands of years, releasing chemicals into the air and

surrounding environment as they decay. Even synthetic fabrics we love and use regularly are negatively impacting the environment. A single load of regular household laundry can release up to 700,000 synthetic microfibres into the water. These fibres make their way into the oceans, where they have been found from pole to pole. Unfortunately, natural fabrics are not always an eco-friendly alternative. Almost half of all clothing made today uses cotton fibres. Cotton is a thirsty crop, using vast amounts of water. Mass produced cotton not only takes a lot of space and water but heavy doses of herbicides and pesticides. Cotton production is now responsible for 18% of worldwide pesticide use and 25% of total insecticide use. These chemicals are polluting areas surrounding factories and their effects on the land and human health are largely untested. Organic cotton offers a more environmentally friendly option, but there are better alternatives that require less water and space, such as bamboo and hemp. There are also brands that use recycled plastics to create a less wasteful fabric, such as Bermudian run NOVAH, which offers a beautiful Ecoluxe line of suits made with recycled plastic collected from the oceans and landfill. Another of my favorites is Finisterre, a UK-based company that prides itself on creating pieces that last, made by workers who are treated fairly. The company also provides its very own repair service to enable you to get everything you can from your clothes. There are also quick and easy ways to mend clothes at home, as you don’t need to be a sewing master to re-attach a button or close a small hole. A small sewing kit should do the trick. For bigger holes or stains, try patches of funky or elegant fabric. If repairing it on your own feels intimidating, try a local tailor or seamstress – your mama or granny probably knows a thing or two. For stained items, try the good old classic tie-dye, which is a great afternoon activity for kids and grown-ups alike. If something is beyond repair, Going Green 2021

environmental impact GoingGreen breathe new life into it with a new role – think pillow cases, scrunchies, or even cleaning rags. There are some great tutorials on YouTube. Perhaps you could replace the wasteful paper towel in your kitchen with a stack of recycled, washable cloths. Clothes can be recycled, too. Why not buy second-hand? I ﬁnd most of my wardrobe at The Barn, The Bargain Box, or the Red Cross. This is a great way to avoid Fast Fashion and donate to charity at the same time. The other bonus is that they have a larger selection than is available in stores on the island. If second-hand isn’t your thing, you can shop consciously and buy items that are made with environmentally friendly fabrics from fair-trade companies – items designed to last.

Staple items that you can work into multiple outﬁts. When buying a new item for your wardrobe or home, ask yourself these questions: Where is it coming from? What is it made of? Who is making it? Quality items cost more for good reason. Fast Fashion isn’t free – someone, somewhere, is paying. Small choices make a big difference. When Hiscox moved

to our new offices in Chesney House, we implemented new ideas to help keep the office green. One that may not at first seem like a green initiative is our “Dress for Your Day” mentality. Our new smart casual view gives people more freedom to wear clothes from their everyday wardrobe, leaving show-stopper outfits for special meetings and occasions, thus reducing the need to expand our wardrobes. Disposable masks are wasteful and have already caused a new wave of pollution, as they are discarded every day in the thousands. Re-usable masks are a great alternative. Hiscox provided all staff with high-quality, washable, masks that will last and last. Whether running a business or a household, take a minute to think green.

COMMITTED TO OUR GREEN AGENDA.

Hiscox Ltd, 4th Floor, Wessex House, 45 Reid Street, Hamilton HM 12, Bermuda T +441 278 8300 F +441 278 8301

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Committed to a sustainable path As one of the world’s largest multiline property and casualty insurers, Chubb has a responsibility to control our ecological footprint in the communities in which we work and live. By introducing numerous environmental initiatives, we strive to reduce our impact on the local environment and are committed to promoting a healthy and sustainable planet.

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The Chubb Building in Bermuda is LEED Platinum® and is using the LEED Dynamic Plaque™ to manage its building performance. The LEED Dynamic Plaque measures and displays current building performance data spanning energy, water, waste, transportation and human experience. Learn more at LEEDon.io. ©2021 Chubb. Coverages underwritten by one or more subsidiary companies. Not all coverages available in all jurisdictions. Chubb®, their respective logos, and Chubb. Insured.SM are registered trademarks.