While many are seeking to climb the material ladder in life, others have reached the upper rungs and found out it's not all it's cracked up to be; choosing to set a different course - downshifting. For others, particularly in this economic climate, downshifting is more a forced phenomenon. Either way, downshifting means less consumption - and that's good for the environment.

A solar power system is made up of just a few components, but each is critical in its operation. For example, the voltage from a panel is different to mains power; so how is it converted? With an inverter - learn more in this article in my continuing series on renewable energy options.

There are lots of things in nature that are downright unhealthy or even lethal to humans; so it's something to be aware of when examining products claiming to be green or trying out green tips.