Green

Growing Green Curtains Reduces Energy Usage

A Japanese company, Kyocera, a ceramic manufacturer, has devised a new way of reducing their air-conditioning usage; draping their exterior walls and windows with vegetables and plants. Attached to a grille, they block direct sunlight to the factories and offices of the company. This ensures cooler temperatures within the organization reducing the usage of air conditioning even in summer months.

Kyocera has adopted this green technology in 12 of their factories across the country. Some of their factories have stopped using air conditioning during the morning hours altogether due to the coolness provided by the green curtains. However, the concept is not just about cutting energy bills. The greenery and plants provide a relaxing environment for the factories employees to work in. The concept has been so successful that many of the employees have adopted it in their own homes. The company’s employees also harvest the vegetables that grow on these vines and use them in special summer recipes prepared in the company’s cafeteria.

Kyocera’s employees take pride in their green, living curtains and enjoy the coolness that the plants bring. While the money spent on energy is being saved employees can make use of the organic and fresh vegetables as well as a comfortable and relaxing work environment. A win-win situation for all.