Because, investing in water can not only help you invest in an important resource, but also contribute to sustainable economic growth and responsible resource use.

UN Conference in New York

This year’s UN conference in New York focused on a pressing question: What happens when water becomes scarce? Numerous German politicians were on hand to get an idea of the current situation and to discuss possible solutions.

When water becomes scarce: Causes

German Environment Minister Steffi Lemke was particularly committed to the event, calling for more decisive global action against the water crisis. As measures, she proposes a modern and safe infrastructure by 2050 to combat water shortages.

In fact, water scarcity is already a major problem in many regions of the world. Droughts, pollution and often poor supplies of clean water are just some of the causes. Agriculture and industrial material carriers are also often partly responsible for increased water consumption. To counteract the water shortage, the raw material water must be redistributed. Innovative technologies and responsible use are essential for this.

What was NYC specifically about?

Let’s start with António Guterres’ opening speech and then move on to the content of the conference.

Opening speech by António Guterres

Opening address by António Guterres, UN Secretary-General, at the 1st plenary session of the UN Water Conference 2023.

Water Conference: Contents

Water plays an important role in the Sustainable Development Goals and in the health and prosperity of people and the planet. Yet progress on water-related goals and targets falls alarmingly short of expectations, putting the entire sustainable development agenda at risk. That’s why United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres is calling for a bold water agenda that gives the vital element the attention it deserves.

3 pillars of development

Water is a fundamental component of all aspects of life and is inextricably linked to the three pillars of sustainable development. It integrates social, cultural, economic and political values and supports the achievement of many sustainability goals through close links with climate, energy, cities, environment, food security, poverty, gender equality and health, among others.

The conference, hosted by the governments of Tajikistan and the Netherlands, will feature six plenary sessions and five multi-stakeholder interactive dialogues. In addition, a number of special events and side events will be organized by member states, the UN system and other stakeholders.

Results of the conference

The outcome of the conference will be a summary of the conference events and new commitments, pledges and actions by governments and all stakeholders to achieve SDG 6 and other water-related goals and targets that will be summarized in the Water Agenda.

Investing in water: shares

International companies buy wells to secure fresh water access.

But, can you invest in “water” with less money?

Investments in “water stocks” that are involved in water treatment, distribution and purification are rising in perception. These companies benefit from large deals and contracts related to providing clean water for consumption.

Veolia: water treatment and purification

An example of a company that specializes in water treatment and purification is Veolia from France. The company also offers water recycling services, which makes it possible to use water several times.

Water Works: water treatment and purification

Water Works in the USA is also a major player in water distribution and purification. The company operates a large number of water treatment plants and supplies clean water to millions of people in the USA.

Xylem: pumps, filters and meters

Xylem Water Solutions & Technologies, also from the USA, is a leading manufacturer of pumps, filters and measuring equipment for monitoring water quality and salinity. The company is also active in the development of innovative solutions for water utilization.

Evoqua: Made in Germany

Another company specializing in water treatment and purification is Evoqua, formerly part of Siemens. The company offers a wide range of water treatment solutions, including membrane filtration, disinfection and chemical treatment.

List: 4 “Water shares

4 companies you should know:

• Veolia (France)
• Water Works (USA)
• Xylem (USA)
• Evoqua (Germany)

Investing in water: ETF

Another way to invest in water is to invest in water ETFs (exchange traded funds). Here are some examples:

IShares Global Water ETF

The iShares Global Water ETF comprises 50 international stocks from the water industry. The ETF offers investors access to companies active in water treatment, distribution and purification.

Invesco Water Resources ETF

The Invesco Water Resources ETF is another water ETF that offers investors access to companies that operate in the water industry. The ETF includes companies from various industries such as agriculture, energy and infrastructure that are relevant in terms of water use and resources.

L&G Clean Water ETF

Another water ETF is the L&G Clean Water ETF, which focuses on companies that specialize in providing clean water. The ETF includes companies from various industries, including water treatment, distribution, purification and technology.

Water ETFs can be a great way to invest in the water sector as they offer broad diversification and are an easy way to bet on global growth potential in the water industry.

List: 3 “Water ETFs

3 ETFs you should know:

• IShare gloal Water – 50 shares international from sector
• Invesco Water Resources ETF
• L&G Clean Water

Not investment advice or a recommendation to buy.

All information provided here does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation to buy. All statements are my general published opinion. I have obtained the information from my experience as a private investor. This experience report cannot and is not intended to replace personal investment advice from professionals.

The basics – fireplace as a feel-good zone and focal point of the living space

A fireplace requires a certain amount of expertise that should not be underestimated. Especially when deciding which fireplace is the right one for your home, you should inform yourself in detail about the different types of fireplaces and how they are used.

General knowledge of fireplaces – flue, emission values & the ecological balance sheet

First of all, you should know that every fireplace needs a flue. Without a flue, also a chimney, a fireplace is not a fireplace. The absolute exception are bioethanol fireplaces, but since these do not cause smoke and therefore do not require a flue, they are strictly speaking not considered a fireplace. The district chimney sweep clarifies what a flue has to look like. He is also responsible for the acceptance of the finished fireplace. If you want to install a chimney in the house you have bought, you must first find out exactly whether a flue was installed during construction. If this is not the case, the whole thing is more difficult than thought and they may have to resort to an outdoor vent.

Tip! Heating system in comparison

Save up to 55% costs (heat energy)? Tip! Not only already, but practically? Save energy with the heating system in your property. Use the next time for renovation or your upcoming new building. Here you will find our guide heating systems: solar, oil, gas, heat pump, pellets in comparison and as extra, state subsidies. Continue reading here:

• Heating system: comparison

Fireplace in modern condominium(Berlin):

Fireplace integration country house(Mallorca)

The next question is whether to choose a fireplace with or without a door. This has not only optical differences but is crucial for the functionality of the fireplace. To use a fireplace without a door only for the purpose of the crackling effect is far from modern and should be avoided not only for the protection of the environment but also for your own health. These fireplaces have not only a shocking fine dust emission but also a very bad ecological balance. Because of this, it will no longer be permitted to own a fireplace without a door from 2024. By then, a fireplace must not only have a door and a filter against fine dust, but also proper emission values. This is prescribed by the regulation BImSchV (Federal Immission Control Ordinance). So if you are thinking about a fireplace now, you don’t need to consider a version without a door. Fortunately, there are still great alternatives to not lose the crackling effect.

Fireplace models – a question of taste & functionality

There are many different fireplace models, but when choosing a fireplace, you should not limit yourself to the visual aspect and also consider the different functions of a fireplace. Which fireplace model best suits your property therefore depends on many different factors and your requirements.

Glass fireplace – cosiness factor and campfire atmosphere

Of course, the rule with fireplaces is ‘the more you see of the fire, the higher the cosiness factor’. Therefore, a glass fireplace is a great alternative to a fireplace without a door, as it has almost the same effect. A glass fireplace looks most cosy with three open sides, as this way the fire can not only be seen from every side, but also the cosy light spreads everywhere. Such a glass fireplace is made of special glass in the form of glass ceramic. This gives the same effect as a campfire. There are such fireplaces even without a visible handle on the glass window, which makes the whole thing even cozier. For this, however, the fireplace must be installed in a recessed position.

Hanging fireplace – individual and danger reducing

A hanging fireplace is also an alternative that should not be underestimated. This model originally comes from Scandinavia and offers a great variety, as it is not bound to one corner in the room. The fireplace can be mounted anywhere in the room on a wall and thus also heat all around. In addition, the risk of burns to children and animals is greatly minimized as the fireplace is not hanging within their reach. Firing, stoking and cleaning is also easier with this model, as you don’t have to bend down to the floor, but can work at eye level – you’ll even be spared the backache.

The Danish fireplace – the classic with personalization

The Danish fireplace is the last model that has already established itself as a classic in just a few years. It is the continuation of the ordinary stove and is now available in many variants. It has been equipped with a larger viewing window, which creates more cosiness. It also has a new modern technology, a combustion chamber that increases the efficiency and self-closing doors. A big advantage of this stove is that it is not permanently installed, so it can even be moved. Danish fireplaces are now available for turning, with an additional heating plate, but also some that can be heated with pellets, gas, brown coal or hard coal. An all-rounder that is suitable for every house and can be individually adapted to the needs.

Fireplaces as heating systems – stoves, tiled stoves and gas fireplaces

Of course, you don’t just want to use your fireplace to warm your soul and your living room. A fireplace can be used in many other ways. This includes, among other things, heating the whole house and not just one room. Of course, this includes special pipes, pipes – and energy supply systems.

Pellet stove as a heating system – energy efficient and environmentally conscious

The first way to use your fireplace as a heating system is the pellet stove, in which you heat not with wood but with pellets. Such a fireplace is particularly suitable for energy-saving houses. It is heated with wood pellets which are made from wood waste such as sawdust. They have a much higher efficiency, because they burn longer than the same amount of wood. To heat the whole house with such a fireplace, it must be connected to the hot water supply. The advantage is quite clear that a fireplace with a heating function not only protects the environment, but also the household budget. Unfortunately, the installation of such a fireplace is very costly, which is why the appearance is often neglected and there is only a small window. The coziness falls by the wayside, but it is always nice and warm everywhere and without a guilty conscience. Complementary to such a heating system is a solar system on the roof, which can heat the water in the summer. For such a system, a hot water tank with a minimum capacity of 1000 liters is needed, but it fits well in the basement.

Gas fireplace as a heating system – modern and uncomplicated

But also with a gas fireplace it is possible to heat the whole house and this even offers some advantages. For one thing, the cozy factor is not lost, because the flame can flicker peacefully behind a glass door and delight her heart. Behind the façade, however, there is a sophisticated system of ventilation heating that can be used throughout the entire house. This fireplace is operated with natural gas as well as with propane gas, which may be installed in a liquid cartridge with up to 11 kilograms. According to the manufacturer, this lasts up to 25 hours and provides heat. Another advantage not to be sneezed at, however, is that the fireplace and the air remain clean. There is no soot, the fireplace rarely needs to be cleaned and there is virtually no fine dust. And despite all this, not even the efficiency suffers, because it is at a respectable 70 percent. An alternative that you should definitely think about.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bfyops-FvtU/?tagged=gasfireplace

The tiled stove as a heating system

Probably the oldest model among the stoves is the tiled stove. However, its history proves its effectiveness, because it can heat up for between 12 and 24 hours and thus provide cosy warmth. Wood, pellets or even coal are burned here. In the meantime, even windows can be found in the tiled stoves, as the feel-good feeling has simply become too important and consumers can no longer do without it. The efficiency can also be seen, because a tiled stove burns its fuel completely. In addition, tiled stoves have the reputation of being particularly comfortable, as the radiant heat is even and the air layers are not confused by it. So the tiled stove should also be considered if you are looking for a fireplace with heating function for the whole house.

Outdoor fireplace

Firewood: Do-it-yourself, chopping & stacking

Firewood & Fireplace Wood Storage – Larger quantities of firewood, are often stored on properties. The garden or a barn are often used for storage. Larger quantities of firewood, once stored on a property, must be stored in a fire protected location. This measure is regularly inspected by a chimney sweep. In this article you will find tips and videos on storing, DIY, stacking and chopping firewood for your fireplace:

• Tip: Firewood + Storage

Build your own fireplace?! Video tutorial: Installation

So you can also build and connect your fireplace yourself.

Heating guide: types, prices & comparison

Heating & Types – The topic of heating is not only interesting for builders, but also for property owners. After all, heaters are not only necessary in a property, they are also required by law. Which types of heating are there, how do they have to be maintained and are there legal subsidies for the construction of certain types of heating or do the costs have to be paid completely by the owner? Especially when building a house or renovating and modernising, the heating system plays a decisive role, because a large part of the later running costs depend on it, for you or for your tenants.

When deciding on a heating system, a number of things need to be considered, as there are major differences. Depending on the property, it must be decided individually which system is best suited to efficiently heat the entire property. The systems differ not only in environmental friendliness, but also in efficiency and price. Solar, oil, gas, heat pump, pellets:

• Heating: Comparison & Costs

Efficient heating with environmental energy – the heat pump makes it possible

The heat pump is one of the newest renewable energies that can be used to heat buildings. In addition to solar energy and the environmentally friendly alternatives with biogas and bio fuel oil, the heat pump offers a CO2-neutral option for builders and property owners.

Functionality – how the heat pump works

The heat pump uses the thermal energies already stored in the environment to convert them into usable heat for heating. The special thing about this technology is that nothing is burned here, as with wood, gas or oil heating systems, but a technical process converts the thermal energies into heat. The principle is the same as in a refrigerator. Thermal energy with low temperatures are to be raised to a higher level. With the heat pump it works only the other way round. The environmental heat can therefore not only be used in the heating system, but also to provide hot water for the household.

The energy sources of the heat pump – air, earth & water

The heat pump uses different energy sources to generate heat. The brine-to-water heat pump uses the earth as an energy source, the water-to-water heat pump uses the water as an energy source and the air-to-water heat pump uses the air as an energy source. Which heat pump is best for your property depends on a variety of factors, but especially on the location of the property.

The air-to-water heat pump – thermal energy from the air

The energy source air is the easiest to use by the heat pump. The heat pump works with a simple system that sucks in and blows out the air. For this purpose, the heat pump uses the outside air, which is always available and is therefore one of the renewable energies. But even if the heat pump works with outside air, it can be placed inside the house. It then uses ducts to draw in air from outside. But it is also possible to place the system outside the property. There is no need for ducts as the system directly uses the air that is in the surrounding area. However, it is important with a heat pump that works with air that it is always kept free of frost in winter. Since the system has to work with air temperatures below zero, it becomes increasingly difficult to convert the cold air into usable heat. The colder the air, the more difficult the conversion. To keep the efficiency of the heat pump as high as possible, regularly clear it of frost and make sure it is properly maintained.

The brine-to-water heat pump – Earth as an energy source

Thermal energy is also stored in the ground, which the brine-to-water heat pump uses to generate heat for heating. For this purpose, pipes are installed in the ground in which a mixture of water and antifreeze circulates. The liquid, also called brine, extracts heat from the earth and transports it to the heat pump, which feeds it into the heating system. Each metre of ground provides thermal energy of approximately 50 watts that the brine fluid can extract from it. For a normal building, an average of around 150 metres of depth is required, which can, however, be divided into several boreholes. Depending on the individual circumstances of the property, deep boreholes or shallow collectors can be installed. The deep boreholes go up to 100 metres deep into the ground and therefore require special permits and are also not permitted in every area. With this method, plastic pipes (probes) are then installed in the ground.

If this variant is technically or legally not possible, the variant of flat plate collectors can be used. Here, similar to underfloor heating, pipes are laid at a depth of 1.50 m, which can extract 25 watts per square metre. A modern single-family house needs about 350 square meters of pipes to provide heating. The big advantage over the air-water heat pump is that the heat can be extracted all year round without any loss. This fact increases the efficiency of the heat pump and thus reduces the electricity costs incurred. See also: money guide.

The water-to-water heat pump – thermal energy in groundwater

Thermal energy can also be found in the groundwater, which can be used to generate heat. The water-to-water heat pump has a relatively simple mode of operation, as it has two wells that transport the groundwater to the water-to-water heat pump and back again. The wells must be installed in the direction of flow of the groundwater with a minimum distance to prevent the groundwater, which has already cooled down, from entering the heater again.

However, before installing a water-to-water heat pump, the groundwater must be tested. Good water quality is a prerequisite for installation, because chemical ingredients can put a great strain on the heat exchanger and thus limit efficiency enormously. In addition, the use of groundwater in a water-to-water heat pump is subject to approval and is not permitted everywhere. However, the thermal energy that can be used from groundwater is the most constant throughout the year, as the temperatures in the groundwater are not subject to large fluctuations. The water-to-water heat pump is one of the most effective variants of the heat pump.

The cost of a heat pump – installation, operation and energy source

The costs involved in installing a heat pump are generally divided into three areas. The cost of the energy source, i.e. the extraction of thermal energy from the air, earth or water, the cost of the system itself and the cost of operation and maintenance. Depending on which system is suitable for your property, the costs differ depending on the model and the system.

Costs for the extraction of environmental energy from air, earth or water

The choice of thermal energy from which the heat is to be extracted decisively determines the costs. An air-source heat pump, for example, requires hardly any additional technology, whereas with a brine heat pump, the drilling and additional materials must also be paid for. The cost of one metre of deep drilling is around 60 to 80 euros, while one square metre of surface collector costs 10 to 20 euros. The water heat pump also requires costs for the drilling, because the two wells must be laid to the groundwater and back. The costs here amount to about 5000-6000 euros for both wells. Depending upon condition of the environment and situation of the real estate the prices can deviate however also. An exact offer can only be made by a specialist.

Costs for the heat pump itself

The heat pump itself consists of the same components, regardless of the energy source itself, and can be combined with all three options. Depending on the size, installation costs range from 8000 to 12000 euros. However, the installation of a heat pump can be subsidised by various grants. Again, depending on the size required and individual circumstances of the location, prices may vary. For precise prices, request a quote from a specialist company.

Costs for the operation of the heat pump

All heat pumps operate electrically and require electricity to convert the thermal energy into heat. However, the level of these operating costs is highly variable. They depend on the selected energy source, the energy status of the property and the type of heat transfer to the various rooms. It is therefore not possible to give an exact price here and it must be calculated individually for each property.