SAN FRANCISCO, 22 July 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Gradient, a company founded by thermal scientists to reimagine HVAC and create products that are good for the planet and great for cooling and heating homes, announces the development of its first product, a replacement for the window air conditioner. Gradient will replace the traditional window air conditioner with a more efficient, space-saving, and better-designed solution that keeps homes cool using advanced heat pump technology and a climate-friendly refrigerant. Customers can now sign up for the exclusive beta program at Gradientcomfort.com.

Air conditioning is essential to quality of life and work productivity, yet the basic design of window air conditioners hasn't changed in 50 years. All too often, the very same air conditioning systems that make life bearable in hot weather are also contributing to climate change; heating and cooling systems are responsible for 20% of global CO2 emissions.

“Gradient is on a mission to cool the world by redesigning every home to be more comfortable and healthier for the people who live there – without compromising the environment. We believe we can build a better home air conditioning solution while fighting climate change,” said Vince RomaniCEO of Gradient. “Air conditioning is one of the most important amenities to keep people comfortable and productive in a warming world, but too many people struggle with outdated window air conditioners that are clunky, noisy, heavy and inefficient. Gradient offers beautiful, intuitive design, a more efficient, sleek, quieter air conditioning experience and climate-friendly refrigerants. Building better air conditioning is one of the most effective ways to help people stay comfortable at home while reducing carbon emissions from HVAC systems.”

The Gradient is easy to install and doesn't block the view like a traditional window air conditioner. It offers the benefits of a professional heat pump system at a fraction of the cost. It can cool and heat all year round and is easy to operate via a mobile app.

Founded in 2017, Gradient has raised over $13 million in venture capital. Investors include Ajax Strategies, At One Ventures, Prime Coalition, Incite Ventures, Autodesk Foundation, Urban WeMagic Hour and leading Silicon Valley angels. The company has also received over $9 million in government grants from the U.S. Department of Energy, the California Energy Commission, and the California Strategic Growth Council.

“Residential air conditioning is an underestimated aspect of the general climate change discussion, and we see a great opportunity for Gradient to shake up the residential air conditioning and ventilation space by developing a significantly improved, climate-friendly replacement for the traditional window air conditioner,” said Milo WernerPartner of Ajax Strategies. “Millions of Americans need air conditioning, but their options are limited to outdated window and floor units that block their view, make a lot of noise, and contribute to climate change. Current technology hasn't improved in decades. With more people working from home, there is a higher level of consumer interest in a quality home air conditioner that really works. Gradient has a great product and an outstanding team that is thinking creatively about meeting the needs of this market with a beautiful, intuitive, consumer-focused solution.”

Gradient emerged from Otherlab, a private research and development laboratory in San Francisco which has leveraged over $40 million in government grants to create hardtech companies in manufacturing, energy, and robotics. Founded by thermal scientists and engineers and backed by talent from giants like Tesla and Nest, the Gradient team is uniquely qualified to solve this problem.

The Gradient solution will be available for sale nationwide in spring 2022. In the meantime, you can learn more and sign up for Gradient's exclusive beta program at GradientComfort.com.

About Gradient

Gradient is rethinking HVAC. We build products that are good for the planet and keep your home comfortable, starting with a replacement for the window air conditioner. Gradient was founded by thermal scientists and engineers and backed by talent from giants like Tesla and Nest, all behind the mission to cool the world. Gradient aims to reduce carbon emissions from heating and cooling systems, which account for 20% of global emissions. With the support of Otherlab, Gradient has over $9 million in non-dilutive grants and $13 million in venture capital. For more information visit GradientComfort.com

Media contact for Gradient:

Rebecca SillimanWhipsmart PR
(510) 254-7615
315022@email4pr.com

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SOURCE Gradient

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Though keeping our domestic spaces warm this winter is essential, so is the even flow of fresh air. These products guarantee that this can occur in the healthiest ways possible.

Courtesy LG

LG Art Cool Premier Wall Mount Split System with LGRED
LG

With one of the highest SEER ratings in the industry, the LG Art Cool Premier Wall Mount Split System with LGRED offers AEC professionals a design-forward solution that doesn’t compromise on energy efficiency. This inverter variable split system seamlessly connects with the LG ThinQ app providing remote cooling and heating controls.

(Courtesy Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US)

PKFY-NLMU Wall Mounted Indoor Unit
Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US (METUS)

Perfect for tight spaces, the PKFY-NLMU Wall-Mounted Indoor Unit by Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US is whisper-quiet, running at just 22 dB(A). Connected to the CITY MULTI®R2-Series, Y-Series, WY-Series, WR2-Series, and S-Series VRF zoning systems, the unit uses the least amount of energy needed to maintain an area’s desired set point.

(courtesy Bosch)

CDi Series: SM Rev C
Bosch

Bosch’s leading geothermal solution, the CDi Series: SM Rev C residential water source heat pump meets the highest ENERGY STAR standards. Available in two sizes, the system incorporates a two-stage scroll compressor, an ECM constant air monitor for superior comfort, and connects to Bosch’s EasyStart diagnostics app.

(courtesy 3M)

Filtrete Elite Allergen Reduction Healthy Living 2200 filters
3M

The Filtrete Elite Allergen Reduction Healthy Living 2200 Filter by 3M is perfect for keeping a wide array of HVAC units hygienic and hypoallergenic. The insert captures microscopic particles like pet dander, smoke, bacteria, viruses, and odors but also larger fragments like mold spores, dust, and pollen.

Courtesy Carrier

infinity
carriers

Third-party testing has demonstrated that Carrier’s new and improved Infinity air purifier can inactivate 99% of the murine coronavirus. Its MERV 15 rated filter treats the airflow flowing through most HVAC systems by creating a cloud of electrically charged ions that attach, pull apart, and eliminate airborne dust, pollen, viruses, and germs.

(Courtesy Uponor North America)

Stainless Steel Manifold
Uponor North America

The brand new Stainless-Steel Manifold application by Uponor North America is a corrosion-resistant alternative for cooling and heating application. Available in two sizes, the manifold comes preassembled for faster install. Both variants include full-port ball valves with temperature gauges and integrated flow meters.

The post Enhanced HVAC options be certain that interiors keep protected and hygienic appeared first on Los Gatos News And Events.

By Jason Gillis

Indoor air quality (IAQ) has dominated the news cycle for the past two years due to the ongoing COVID pandemic. Developing clean air inside schools became a top priority due to the airborne nature of COVID and other pathogens. While providing clean air is still pivotal, one area that has been overlooked is the importance of indoor environmental quality (IEQ).
For K-12 schools, IEQ plays a key role in the experience of both students and faculty, alike.

The primary goal of any school is to create an environment that promotes a healthy learning environment for students and an enjoyable workspace for employees. To reach these goals, IEQ should be a focal point for facility managers.

Mechanical HVAC units can help enhance IEQ within a school by focusing on two major factors: IAQ and noise reduction. The air students and faculty breathe contribute heavily to the environmental quality due to the need for clean, comfortable air. Noise contributes to the students’ ability to concentrate in a learning environment.

It is critical for facility managers and school leaders to create a strategy that promotes positive IEQ using HVAC solutions as the catalyst.

Reduce HVAC noise

Imagine being a student right in the middle of a major test. You’re trying to concentrate on a tough question only to be distracted by a loud HVAC unit. This does not promote a comfortable learning atmosphere. Therefore, having the proper HVAC solution to help reduce noise is important to IEQ. To find the right solution to reduce HVAC noise, facility managers need to understand what affects sound within a classroom.

There are two main areas of focus when understanding how noise will affect a particular space: sound pressure and sound power. Sound pressure is the force of sound on a surface area and is predicated on the characteristics of the room. Sound power is the energy of sound per unit of time and is dependent on the sound source alone. With sound power, the construction of the room and the location of installation are less important. Understanding these two areas can help school leaders determine the proper location and HVAC solution for the school.

In addition to selecting the proper HVAC system, there are also upgrades that can be added to an existing unit to help reduce noise. Upgrading to an improved acoustic insulation with a barrier can help decrease noise, while a redesigned acoustic plenum will reduce noise by up to 7db.

Enhance air quality

While IAQ has been an important topic regarding the COVID pandemic, it is also a major factor in IEQ. Poor air quality can be detrimental to IEQ for both students and faculty. Mechanical HVAC units are best suited to improve IAQ for K-12 schools. These units have the capabilities to create fresh clean air while also enhancing comfort for students. There are three main areas pertaining to IAQ: ventilation, filtration, and dehumidification. Addressing each one of these areas will provide students and faculty with the air they need.

Bringing clean outdoor air into a facility is a must. HVAC units allow facility managers to control ventilation and determine how much outdoor air is pushed into an interior space. It is important to determine how much outside air is best for the interior space. While fresh, clean air is being pulled inside, the HVAC unit is also pushing old, contaminated air outdoors.

While bringing in fresh air is vital, filtering out pathogens within that air is just as important. This can be done by utilizing the proper MERV filters for your unit. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers recommends using MERV 13 filters for most applications, if compatible with the unit. This allows for more particulates to be filtered out of the air. Other options that can be added to HVAC systems to increase filtration include UV lights and needlepoint bipolar ionization solutions.

Humidity within a space plays a vital role in IAQ and IEQ as well. If relative humidity levels are too high or too low, the air can be uncomfortable to breathe for occupants. In addition, relative humidity can also contribute to the growth of bacteria, mold and mildew. The relative humidity inside a space should stay between 40% and 60% to ensure satisfaction from students and faculty.

Improve IEQ

Mechanical HVAC equipment can be the catalyst for improving IEQ inside a K-12 facility. When it is time for students to learn, creating a space that sustains and promotes a positive, healthy environment is paramount. Enhancing IAQ and reducing HVAC noise throughout the building will go a long way in developing positive IEQ. With fresh air to breathe and a quiet atmosphere to learn in, facility managers will be helping both students and faculty succeed inside the classroom and throughout the building.

Gillis is a regional sales manager at Modine Manufacturing Company. Having been with the company for over 18 years, he once served as its sales engineer. Modine specializes in thermal management systems and components, bringing highly engineered heating and cooling components, original equipment products, and systems to diversified global markets through its four complimentary segments: CIS; BHVAC; HDE; and Automotive.

Click here for more insight about Indoor Air Quality.

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SAN FRANCISCO, July 22, 2021 /PRNewswire/ — Gradient, a company built by thermal scientists to rethink HVAC and build products that are good for the planet and great at cooling and heating homes, is announcing the development of its first product, a replacement for the window AC. Gradient will replace the conventional home window AC with a more efficient, space-saving, better-designed solution that keeps homes cool with advanced heat pump technology and a climate-friendly refrigerant. Customers are invited to sign up now for the exclusive beta program at Gradientcomfort.com.

Gradient will replace the conventional home window AC with a more efficient, space-saving, better-designed solution that keeps homes cool with advanced heat pump technology and a climate-friendly refrigerant.

Gradient will replace the conventional home window AC with a more efficient, space-saving, better-designed solution that keeps homes cool with advanced heat pump technology and a climate-friendly refrigerant.

Air conditioning is essential to quality of life and work productivity, but the basic design of window air conditioners has not changed in 50 years. Too often, the very same air conditioning that makes life tolerable in hot weather is also contributing to making climate change worse; heating and cooling systems are responsible for 20% of global carbon emissions.

“Gradient has a mission to cool the world by transforming every home to be more comfortable and healthy for the people who inhabit it — without compromising the environment. We believe we can build a better home air conditioning solution while fighting climate change,” said Vince Romanin, CEO of Gradient. “Air conditioning is one of the most essential amenities to keep people comfortable and productive in a warming world, but too many people are struggling with antiquated window AC units that are clunky, noisy, heavy, and inefficient. Gradient offers a beautiful, intuitive design , a more efficient, sleek, quiet air conditioning experience, and climate-friendly refrigerants. Building a better air conditioner is one of the most effective ways to help people stay comfortable at home while helping to slash carbon emissions from HVAC systems.”

The Gradient is designed to be easy to install and does not block the view like a traditional window AC unit. It provides the benefits of a professional-grade heat pump system at a fraction of the cost. It can provide cooling and heating year-round and is easy to use via mobile app.

Gradient was founded in 2017 and has raised over $13MM in venture funding; investors include Ajax Strategies, At One Ventures, Prime Coalition, Incite Ventures, Autodesk Foundation, Urban Us, Magic Hour, and leading Silicon Valley angels. The company has also received over $9MM in government grants from the US Department of Energy, California Energy Commission, and California Strategic Growth Council.

“Home air conditioning is an underrated aspect of the overall conversation around climate change, and we see a big opportunity for Gradient to disrupt the home HVAC space by developing a much-improved, climate-friendly replacement for the traditional window unit AC,” said Milo Werner, Partners with Ajax Strategies. “Millions of Americans need an air conditioning solution, but their options are limited to out-of-date window and floor units that block their view, make a lot of noise, and contribute to climate change. The current technology has not improved in decades .As more people work from home, there is a higher level of consumer interest in getting a high-quality home air conditioner that really works.Gradient has a great product and an excellent team who are thinking creatively about addressing the needs of this market with a beautiful, intuitive, consumer-focused solution.”

Gradient spun out from Otherlab, a private R&D lab in san francisco that has leveraged over $40MM in government grants to incubate hard tech companies in the manufacturing, energy, and robotics industries. Founded by thermal scientists and engineers, flanked by talent from juggernauts like Tesla and Nest, the Gradient team is uniquely qualified to solve this problem.

The Gradient solution will be available for sale nationwide in Spring 2022. In the meantime, you can learn more and sign up for Gradient’s exclusive beta program at GradientComfort.com.

About Gradient

Gradient is rethinking HVAC. We build products that are good for the planet and great at keeping your home comfortable, starting with a replacement for the window AC. Gradient is founded by thermal scientists and engineers and flanked by talent from juggernauts like Tesla and Nest, all aligned behind a mission to cool the world. Gradient aims to reduce the carbon emissions from heating and cooling systems, which represent 20% of emissions globally. Backed by Otherlab, Gradient has secured over $9M in non-dilutive grants and over $13M in venture funding. To learn more, visit GradientComfort.com

Media Contact for Gradient:

Rebecca SillimanWhipsmart PR
(510) 254-7615
[email protected]

SOURCE gradient

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On June 24, the San Francisco Foundation held a donor briefing lifting up solutions to reducing homelessness. A panel of SFF grantee partners discussed the initial results from the Bay Area’s “Point-In-Time (PIT) count” of people who are unhoused. In the first official count taken since the pandemic began, the initial numbers show that the Bay Area staved off the catastrophic increases in homelessness that were feared due to the pandemic. Although the numbers from the count are better than anticipated, homelessness continues to be our region’s biggest challenge, with root causes preceding the pandemic. The panel stressed an important takeaway message:

We know how to solve homelessness. It’s time to double down on investing in and implementing the solutions we already know work.

SFF’s Senior Program Officer for Policy and Advocacy, Christa Brown moderated the conversation with All Home, Bay Area Community Services (BACS), and the Eviction Defense Collaborative (EDC).

Joanne Karchmer, Chief Impact Officer at All Home, kicked off the event with a summer reminder of how interconnected many social and environmental issues are. The day of our event was the day Roe v. Wade was officially overturned, with that decision being certain to have the greatest impact on the same folks who are already struggling and finding themselves in the precarious position of facing eviction and potential homelessness. The decision impacts our ability to deal with issues beyond just reproductive health and justice—for instance, it will have profound implications for housing insecurity and poverty.

Joanne provided an overview of the initial numbers from the PIT count across the region. Pandemic response investments into programs like Roomkey and Homekey, as well as eviction moratoria and emergency rental assistance programs, helped keep people housed and move families back into housing. These responses proved we can move quickly, cutting red tape to invest at a new scale in order to protect thousands of our neighbors—bringing them off the streets and helping them keep their homes. A regional press release from All Home is available and includes links to individual county press releases.

Martina Cucullu Lim, Executive Director of the Eviction Defense Collaborativeshared the policies and programs that contributed to a decrease in homelessness in San Francisco, for example, the Right to Counsel Program, legal services, and emergency rental assistance, many of which took years to build up, and resulted in keeping families housed in the crisis.

Jamie Almanza, CEO of Bay Area Community Servicesshared the successes of programs like Keep Oakland Housed and highlighted their work to get enough permanent supportive housing built in the region to ensure everyone has a healthy, affordable place to call home.

The panel discussed solutions, challenges, and bright spots across the Bay Area, and recognized that, while it can feel like our homelessness challenges are getting worse, it’s important to recognize the solutions that have already proven they work. We know how to solve homelessness, so now it is a matter of doubling down on investing in implementing and expanding those solutions.

Watch a recording of the June 24 donor briefing.

SFF has taken an all-in approach to the Bay Area’s housing crisis through our policy work, grantmaking, partnerships, and program-related investments. With people of color comprising nearly three fourths of the region’s tenants who are behind in rent, it is clear that our housing crisis is also a racial justice crisis. We encourage our donors to support on-the-ground organizations working at the intersections of these challenges.

Here are ways to help:

The post Options to Decreasing Homelessness -The San Francisco Basis appeared first on Los Gatos News And Events.

Why is homelessness increasing in California but decreasing in every other state in the country? California is home to more than 151,000 people who are now homeless across the state – a 31% increase from 2015 – according to the Independent Institute, a public research and education organization.

The flagship of homelessness in California is the San Francisco Bay Area, where housing and homeless crises will not be resolved until policymakers and service providers stop relying on conventional approaches that don’t work, says the Independent Institute.

“The cause of this tragic surge is mainly due to failing state and local government policies fueled homelessness, ”says the Independent Institute. “That includes channeling funding almost entirely to Housing First, a unified approach to homelessness. Applying this approach to every homeless person in California would be prohibitive ($ 75 billion) and studies show Housing First does not reduce homelessness. Meanwhile, an immense government regulation regime for housing is preventing and hampering the construction of any housing, which is fueling the affordable housing crisis. “

Homelessness increased in CA while it decreased in all other states. (Map: www.beyondhomeless.org/our-work/

“Homelessness across the country decreased from 647,000 in 2007 to about 568,000 in 2019 (a decrease of more than 12%), and in California it continued to increase, from about 139,000 to over 151,000 in the same period (an increase of almost 9 percent), “the institute’s Beyond Homeless reports.

And the San Francisco Bay Area is Ground Zero:

“In San Francisco, homelessness has increased 17% since 2017 (31% if you use a broader definition that includes those in prisons, hospitals, and inpatient treatment centers). During that time, homelessness rose 40% in San Jose and 47% in Oakland. “

However, the Independent Institute doesn’t just point the finger – it proposes well-researched solutions in a new report. The institute thoroughly analyzes the causes of homelessness, criticizes current homelessness and housing policy and gives realistic recommendations for solving the housing and homeless crisis.

Beyond Homeless: Good Intentions, Bad Outcomes, Transformative Solutions, by Mary LG Theroux, Adam B. Summers, Lawrence J. McQuillan, Jonathan Hofer, Hovannes Abramyan, and Scott Beyer, examines housing policy and concludes that California’s housing crisis will be resolved must, not just for the homeless, but for all Californians. The report also shows that significant progress can be made in eradicating homelessness before housing expansion.

The Globe spoke to Mary Theroux, co-author of the report and director of the Beyond Homeless initiative. Theroux has also been a member of the Board of Directors of the Salvation Army for many years, which advocates the services of addicts, those in need and many others.

Theroux said the report doesn’t expect the government to fix homelessness or provide funding, but it does require government approval for redevelopment projects aimed at affordable housing.

“Homelessness is complicated, and the causes are unique to each individual,” said Theroux. “So a one-size-fits-all approach will never be effective. But this is how homelessness will continue to be addressed. “

The report found:

• The most common self-reported cause of homelessness was job loss (26 percent)
• Alcohol or drug use was the second most common reason (18 percent)
• Eviction (13 percent)
• Thrown out after an argument with family or friends (12 percent).

This is no surprise in San Francisco, California, one of the most expensive housing markets in the country.

The report takes up the flawed “Housing First” policy of the Obama administration. “By dictating Housing First as the universal solution to homelessness, government agencies have effectively cut public funding for programs with alternative approaches. This has been particularly punishing for the type of longer term support programs that have been shown to help the homeless reach their full potential. “

State and local governments are failing to adequately address the homelessness crisis by simply allocating more and more funds to it. “Governments across California are spending record amounts of taxpayers’ money on homelessness, but the problem continues to grow. This suggests that the failure to adequately tackle homelessness is not due to a lack of government programs or insufficient taxpayers’ money, but rather to poorly designed strategies and programs with the wrong priorities. “

“In San Francisco alone, the city spent $ 365 million on homelessness in fiscal year 2019-20, an 84 percent increase over the past six years. With the addition of funding from state and state governments, along with contributions from private corporations, foundations, and the approximately 100 Bay Area nonprofits that provide services to the homeless, the total comes closer to $ 1 billion a year. “San Francisco has 873,965 inhabitants.

The Independent Institute highlights successful programs that get the homeless off the streets, provide comprehensive services and treatments, and help bring many back into a productive society.

Recommendations include:

• Abolition of prevailing wage laws that increase average construction costs for affordable housing projects by 10 to 25 percent – and increase total project costs by up to 46 percent;
• Optimize or Eliminate CEQA;
• Revision of the laws on the preservation of monuments;
• Minimize development impact fees;
• Easing zoning restrictions, removing limits to urban growth and improving property rights;
• Eliminate the requirements for inclusion zones (affordable housing) and rental controls.

You can read the report on Beyond Homeless.

The Independent Institute also has an accompanying documentary, Beyond Homeless: Finding Hope, which will be released in early 2022.

The post New Report on San Francisco Homelessness Gives Actual Coverage Options appeared first on Los Gatos News And Events.

Months after breakfast service was temporarily canceled on some campuses in the Unified School District in South San Francisco due to staff shortages, officials were offered a range of solutions on how to improve and potentially rebuild the overstretched meal service program.

Fran Debost, the district’s former director of food services and distribution, spoke to the district trustees during a study session Thursday, October 21, explaining the disruption the district was facing when it tried to hit thousands of daily Students to use since the state has introduced free meals for all students regardless of household income

The district saw a 27 percent increase in meal service attendance. The increase was most noticeable in middle and high schools, where comparing current consumption with the 2018/19 school year, the number of lunches served increased by 44% and 75%, respectively.

This influx of participation, coupled with a staff shortage, caused the district to temporarily suspend breakfast service at its six middle and high schools. Debost, realizing that she has long been a champion of breakfast services, called the decision heartbreaking but necessary.

The small 40-person team, without three drivers, has nine vacancies and three people who are ill for a long time. We urgently need four part-time site managers who can oversee operations and handle the paperwork, as well as four part-time assistants.

Filling the roles was also made difficult by a test requirement that largely disqualified non-English speaking candidates who have difficulty passing the test. To bypass the test, the California School Employee Association would have to vote to remove the district merit classification, which requires employers to select the best candidate through a rigorous performance process.

The burden is supplemented by a vacant director position, which is temporarily occupied by nutrition service supervisor Teri Inocencio.

“This year has been a tough year for all of the nutrition services departments in all of the districts. Staffing is an issue everywhere, ”said Debost, adding that he will remain available to support the district as long as necessary.

The part-time positions are the hardest to fill, she said, encouraging the district to consider increasing salaries for food service workers. Previously, a 13% raise was raised to attract staff, but these additional funds were contingent on adequate funding from the canteen fund.

A sharp decline in catering participation during the pandemic forced the district to scrap the extra dollars. Debost suggested that greater participation now might justify scaling back the increases, especially given the government funding the program is now supporting.

The district has benefited from a partnership with the Adult Transition Program, which connects 18-22 year olds with developmental disabilities with businesses and organizations to develop professional skills. With nutritional services, Debost said, students prepare and serve the food, and then do the cleaning.

Trustee John Baker, who shared the great disappointment with the district’s suspension of breakfast service, suggested that other students might be able to work for the program before or after school for pay or work experience. Dr. Jay Spaulding, assistant director of human resources, said the district is already considering the idea.

In addition to additional employees and better pay, Debost pleaded for improvements to the infrastructure that could lead to better efficiency. A $ 75,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture has enabled the department to purchase ovens and tilt pans.

But the district is still in need of additional equipment and is seeking up to $ 100,000 in grants from the Second Harvest Food Bank. Additional equipment, like two ovens in each kitchen, would enable lunch staff, who often work alone in smaller schools, to better respond to the growing number of meals requested, Debost said.

Cafeterias are also not designed to serve more than a number of students at a time, forcing staff to serve about 33 students per minute from a single file. Queues have moved slowly this year, as students reported, but could end up moving even more slowly when staff start collecting student PIN information for future exams next year.

Ted O, deputy superintendent of Business Services, said his staff had started looking for an architect who could review the cafeteria facilities for possible improvements, but it would “take a long time to find and hire someone”.

To deal with queues on short notice, Debost said the district could also move a two-lunch system that would split high school students into two 30-minute meals. Spaulding said the idea has received strong support from students, parents and staff, but requires additional work to account for class time.

As a long-term solution, Debost said the district could adopt a food court model rolled out in other districts that would allow students to serve and check out a variety of items at stations.

No formal decision was made during Thursday’s study session, so it remains unclear which of these actions the district will take. Still, the trustees praised Debost for returning with ideas to improve the program, despite no longer working with the district.

The two trustees Patricia Murray and Chialin Shieh also praised Debost for thinking of innovative solutions.

“I appreciate that you are always looking for new and better ways to do things,” said Murray. “No idea is too big to look up.”

Vaccination orders, teacher remuneration

During the study session, district officials also discussed a potential COVID-19 vaccine mandate for college students that would require the vaccinations ahead of the state’s schedule. Without a localized mandate, students would be covered by state requirements that will require vaccination for anyone aged 16 and over from Jan. 1, as the Pfizer vaccine has full state approval.

If full state approval for students 12 years and older is not approved before the end of the year, compulsory vaccination for younger students will begin on July 1st. If it comes before the end of the year, the date of January 1st will apply.

Students ages 11 and under are still not allowed to get a vaccine, but officials expect an emergency permit will be issued in November, with full approval next spring.

The district would have to build the infrastructure to implement the mandates, regardless of whether it is ahead of the state or not. Spaulding said it would take the district at least a month to develop a vaccine tracking system and remote options for students with religious or medical exemptions.

The district teachers used the discussions as an opportunity to rally for higher wages, arguing that in addition to safe schools and decent meals, students also need good quality teachers to run the classrooms.

The district offers teachers a salary range from $ 58,043 to $ 108,128, depending on experience and educational level. But educators cited the past nearly two years of working amid the pandemic and the rising cost of living as evidence that they deserved and deserved pay increases.

The post South San Francisco colleges weigh options to meal service points | Native Information appeared first on Los Gatos News And Events.

California-based mining technology company Lilac Solutions is looking to get more involved in the lithium business and recently signed an agreement to acquire a stake in the Kachi asset in Argentina and is in the process of raising funds to ramp up its brine lithium extraction technology.

Lilac’s technology relies on ion exchange to extract lithium from brines without using the evaporation ponds required for traditional lithium extraction and far less environmentally friendly reagents and materials. This means that project development can be accelerated and recovery increased, while at the same time causing far less environmental damage.

BNamericas takes a look at the partnerships and agreements the US company entered into in South America last year to strengthen its activities in this sector.

Sea resources

Earlier this month, Lilac and Australian junior mining company Lake Resources entered into an earn-in partnership with approximately $ 50 million in technology and funding to develop the $ 544 million Kachi project in the northern Argentine province of Catamarca.

Lilac can acquire up to 25% of the project through a three-step operation. The first 10% will be earned through the commitment to finance the completion of the technology tests in the project, a further 10% through the fulfillment of the test criteria with the demonstration plant, which will be built at the site in Q1 22, and a further 5% through the achievement of high standards regarding the chemical product with certain potential acceptance partners.

“As soon as Lilac has earned its 25% stake, Lake and Lilac will contribute proportionally to the financing of the development of the Kachi project,” said the US company in a press release.

Kachi’s final feasibility study and environmental impact assessment is expected to be completed in Q2 22. The project aims to produce 25,500 tons of lithium carbonate per year from 2024.

Lithium South development

The Vancouver-based junior company is working with Lilac to test Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) processes on the 93 million. In April, the company reported 99% lithium recovery with very low reagent consumption in tests.

The company is also evaluating the use of the DLE processes developed by Florida-based technology company Eon Minerals and Chinese company Chengdu Chemphys Chemical Industry.

Alpha lithium

Since April, Lilac has also been working with Alpha Lithium from Vancouver on the Tolillar project in the Argentine province of Salta.

The mining technology company will evaluate 2,000 liters of raw brine from the Tolillar Salar. In late June, Alpha Lithium said in a press release that raw brines “have finally cleared customs in San Francisco and arrived at Lilac’s California laboratory testing facility,” but the results have not yet been reported.

Enami

In 2020, Lilac also held talks with Chile’s national mining company, Enami, to test its technology on brines from the Infieles and Aguilar salars in the country’s Atacama region.

BNamericas contacted Enami to see the status of these conversations, but no one at the company was available for comment.

financing

Lilac recently raised $ 150 million to ramp up production of its ion exchange system, expand its facilities and employees on site, and deploy its technology in other countries.

Investors from Breakthrough Energy Ventures, led by Bill Gates, are involved in the financing. Last year the fund made a $ 20 million investment in the company.

Photo credit: Lithium South

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SAN FRANCISCO, July 22, 2021 / PRNewswire / – Gradient, a company founded by thermal scientists to rethink HVAC and create products that are good for the planet and great for cooling and heating homes, announces the development of its first product, a Replacement for the window air conditioner. Gradient will replace traditional window AC with a more efficient, space-saving and better designed solution that uses advanced heat pump technology and a climate-friendly refrigerant to keep houses cool. Customers are invited to sign up now for the exclusive beta program on Gradientcomfort.com.

Gradient will replace traditional window AC with a more efficient, space-saving and better designed solution that uses advanced heat pump technology and a climate-friendly refrigerant to keep houses cool.

Gradient will replace traditional window AC with a more efficient, space-saving and better designed solution that uses advanced heat pump technology and a climate-friendly refrigerant to keep houses cool.

Air conditioning is essential for quality of life and work productivity, but the basic design of window air conditioners has not changed in 50 years. Too often, the same air conditioning system that makes life bearable in hot weather also contributes to exacerbating climate change; Heating and cooling systems are responsible for 20% of global CO2 emissions.

“Gradient’s mission is to cool the world by making every home more comfortable and healthier for the people who live in it – without harming the environment. We believe we can build a better air conditioning solution for the home while fighting climate change, ”said Vince Romanin, CEO of Gradient. “Air conditioning is one of the most important things to add to comfort and productivity in a warming world, but too many people struggle with antiquated window AC units that are clunky, noisy, heavy and inefficient. Gradient offers a beautiful, intuitive design, a more efficient, leaner, quieter air conditioning system and climate-friendly refrigerants. Building a better air conditioner is one of the most effective ways to help people feel comfortable at home while reducing CO2 emissions from HVAC systems. ”

The Gradient is designed to be easy to install and not block the view like a traditional window AC unit. It offers the benefits of a professional heat pump system at a fraction of the cost. It can cool and heat all year round and is easy to use via a mobile app.

Gradient was founded in 2017 and has raised over $ 13 million in venture funding. Investors include Ajax Strategies, At One Ventures, Prime Coalition, Incite Ventures, Autodesk Foundation, Urban us, Magic Hour and Leading Silicon Valley Angels. The company has also received over $ 9 million in government grants from the US Department of Energy, the California Energy Commission, and the California Strategic Growth Council.

“Home air conditioning is an underrated aspect of the general discussion about climate change, and we see a great opportunity for Gradient to disrupt the HVAC space at home by developing a much improved, climate-friendly replacement for the traditional AC window unit,” said Milo Werner, Partnership with Ajax strategies. “Millions of Americans need air conditioning, but their options are limited to outdated window and floor units that block their view, make a lot of noise, and contribute to climate change. Current technology has not improved in decades. ” As more people work from home, consumer interest in a high quality home air conditioner that really works increases. Gradient has a great product and an excellent team that are creatively thinking of meeting the needs of this market with a beautiful, intuitive, consumer-centric solution. ”

Gradient from Otherlab, a private research and development laboratory in San Francisco who has used over $ 40 million in government grants to found hard-tech companies in the manufacturing, energy, and robotics industries. Founded by thermal scientists and engineers, flanked by talents from giants like Tesla and Nest, the Gradient team is uniquely qualified to solve this problem.

The gradient solution will be offered for sale nationwide in spring 2022. In the meantime, you can learn more at GradientComfort.com and sign up for Gradient’s exclusive beta program.

About gradient

Gradient is rethinking HVAC. We build products that are good for the planet and keep your home comfortable, starting with a window air conditioner replacement. Gradient was founded by thermal scientists and engineers and was flanked by talents from giants like Tesla and Nest, all of whom are behind the mission to cool the world. Gradient aims to reduce CO2 emissions from heating and cooling systems, which make up 20% of global emissions. With the support of Otherlab, Gradient has over $ 9 million in non-dilutive grants and above $ 13 million in risk financing. To learn more, visit GradientComfort.com

Media contact for gradient:

Rebecca Silliman, Whipsmart PR
(510) 254-7615
[email protected]

SOURCE gradient

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Gradient, developed by thermal scientists and executives at Tesla and Nest, replaces traditional window AC units with a revolutionary design: quiet, efficient, year-round cooling and heating without blocking the window; Gradient reinvents HVAC to combat climate change

SAN FRANCISCO, July 22, 2021 / PRNewswire / – Gradient, a company founded by thermal scientists to rethink HVAC and create products that are good for the planet and great for cooling and heating homes, announces the development of its first product, a Replacement for the window air conditioner. Gradient will replace traditional window AC with a more efficient, space-saving and better designed solution that uses advanced heat pump technology and a climate-friendly refrigerant to keep houses cool. Customers are invited to register now for the exclusive beta program on Gradientcomfort.com.

Gradient will replace traditional window AC with a more efficient, space-saving and better designed solution that uses advanced heat pump technology and a climate-friendly refrigerant to keep houses cool.

Air conditioning is essential for quality of life and work productivity, but the basic design of window air conditioners has not changed in 50 years. Too often, the same air conditioning system that makes life bearable in hot weather also contributes to exacerbating climate change; Heating and cooling systems are responsible for 20% of global CO2 emissions.

“Gradient’s mission is to cool the world by making every home more comfortable and healthier for the people who live in it – without harming the environment. We believe we can build a better air conditioning solution for the home while fighting climate change, ”said Vince Romanin, CEO of Gradient. “Air conditioning is one of the most important essentials for a comfortable and productive life in a warming world, but too many people struggle with antiquated air conditioning with windows that are clunky, noisy, heavy, and inefficient. Gradient offers a beautiful, intuitive design, a more efficient, leaner, quieter air conditioning system and climate-friendly refrigerants. Building a better air conditioner is one of the most effective ways to help people feel comfortable at home while reducing CO2 emissions from HVAC systems. “

The story goes on

The Gradient is designed to be easy to install and not block the view like a traditional window AC unit. It offers the benefits of a professional heat pump system at a fraction of the cost. It can cool and heat all year round and is easy to use via a mobile app.

Gradient was founded in 2017 and has raised over $ 13 million in venture funding. Investors include Ajax Strategies, At One Ventures, Prime Coalition, Incite Ventures, Autodesk Foundation, Urban us, Magic Hour and Leading Silicon Valley Angels. The company has also received over $ 9 million in government grants from the US Department of Energy, the California Energy Commission, and the California Strategic Growth Council.

“Home air conditioning is an underrated aspect of the general discussion about climate change, and we see a great opportunity for Gradient to disrupt the HVAC space at home by developing a much improved, climate-friendly replacement for the traditional AC window unit,” said Milo Werner, Partnership with Ajax strategies. “Millions of Americans need air conditioning, but their options are limited to outdated window and floor units that block their view, make a lot of noise, and contribute to climate change. Current technology has not improved in decades. ” As more people work from home, consumer interest in a high quality home air conditioner that really works increases. Gradient has a great product and an excellent team that are creatively thinking of meeting the needs of this market with a beautiful, intuitive, consumer-centric solution. “

Gradient from Otherlab, a private research and development laboratory in San Francisco who has used over $ 40 million in government grants to found hard-tech companies in the manufacturing, energy, and robotics industries. Founded by thermal scientists and engineers, flanked by talents from giants like Tesla and Nest, the Gradient team is uniquely qualified to solve this problem.

The gradient solution will be offered for sale nationwide in spring 2022. In the meantime, you can learn more at GradientComfort.com and sign up for Gradient’s exclusive beta program.

About gradient

Gradient is rethinking HVAC. We build products that are good for the planet and keep your home comfortable, starting with a window air conditioner replacement. Gradient was founded by thermal scientists and engineers and was flanked by talents from giants like Tesla and Nest, all of whom are behind the mission to cool the world. Gradient aims to reduce CO2 emissions from heating and cooling systems, which make up 20% of global emissions. With the support of Otherlab, Gradient has over $ 9 million in non-dilutive grants and above $ 13 million in risk financing. To learn more, visit GradientComfort.com

Media contact for gradient:

Rebecca Silliman, Whipsmart PR
(510) 254-7615
315022@email4pr.com

Gradient will replace traditional window AC with a more efficient, space-saving and better designed solution that uses advanced heat pump technology and a climate-friendly refrigerant to keep houses cool.

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SOURCE gradient

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