Detergents are cleaning products manufactured from synthetic chemical compounds, as opposed to soap, which originates with natural substances like lye and plant saponins. Detergents figure in an extensive array of industrial and home cleaning applications, including laundry and dishwasher detergents.

Photovoltaic and solar-thermal panels generate free electricity by converting sunlight into electricity or transferring the sun's heat to heating and ventilation systems. The use of solar panels to generate energy provides many benefits, which include reductions in the costs associated with generating electricity.

Disposable diapers are a popular consumer product, especially in the U.S. Although they offer convenience, they do have several dangerous environmental drawbacks.

Solar panels, or photovoltaic panels, are designed to collect sunlight and turn it into energy. They don't rely on the power grid to work. If there's a power outage, solar panels will continue to work.

Recycling diverts waste from landfills and helps protect the environment. Many recycled materials also offer indirect economic benefits by keeping prices low on popular products. In addition, it's possible to earn cash from your local recycling center by collecting items ranging from aluminum cans to scrap paper.

Ceiling fans are a simple luxury that can help you feel more comfortable in your home. Unfortunately, this luxury can come at a high cost if you suffer from dust mite allergies. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI), dust mites are the most common allergy triggers.

Water is necessary for the sustenance of human life. While the supply seems abundant, water is not a limitless resource, particularly the fresh potable water most necessary to human survival. Without conservation efforts, this vital supply of water may be exhausted.

Using a softball to play basketball or a handball during a tennis match doesn't make sense. Different sports require differently designed balls. The size and the material making up a ball matter a great deal, and a lot of scientific research goes into developing the right bounce for the right ball.

The disposable cup has come a long way since the first paper cup made its debut in the early years of the 20th century. Both paper and plastic cups offer the convenience of on-the-go consumption without the worry of cleanup.

Enzymes are proteins that speed up chemical reactions. They are present in nearly every living thing, and are necessary to biological reactions. Enzymes are also useful in cleaning. The proteins "eat" odor and stain-causing bacteria, a feat normally accomplished with synthetic, chemical cleansers.

Whether it is molded into a different shape, sitting in a landfill or destroying a natural habitat, virtually all of the plastic we have ever used is somewhere on the planet. And the environmental effects are disastrous.