Whether too much or not enough, the world needs a smarter way to think about water

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Whether too much or not enough, the world needs a smarter way to think about water

When Neil Armstrong saw the Earth from the Moon, it appeared blue!
This is because water covers more than two-thirds of the Earth's surface. But fresh water represents less than 0.5% of the total water on Earth. The rest is either in the form of seawater or locked up in icecaps or the soil.

Global Water Usage:
Global agriculture wastes is estimated upto 60% of the 2,500 trillion liters it uses each year. Municipalities lose as much as 50% of their water supply through leaky infrastructure. And there are nearly 53,000 different water agencies in the United States alone, each managing a short stretch of river or a handful of reservoirs.
Amidst this inefficiency, one in five people still lacks access to clean, safe drinking water, and the United Nations predicts that nearly half the world's population will experience critical water shortages by the year 2080.

Hydrologic cycle depicting the relationship between We -The People and Management of Water

Why to manage water?

Water is one of the world’s most abundant substances. However, it is also fast becoming one of the planet’s most stressed resources.

Escalating pressures from citizens and environmental groups for cleaner rivers, lakes, and natural water supplies has highlighted the need for government at all levels to manage their water bodies carefully and address overall water quality and availability concerns more holistically.

Local agencies and authorities tasked with implementing water related legislation are facing issues in the areas of limited capacity, shortages of expertise, lack of resources, and rising stakeholder coordination costs.

Global economic development is creating more and more competition for the limited water resources.

The answer is to rethink the way the world works and make it work smarter.

What has caused the need for Smarter Water Management?

As water management issues continue to mount and costs continue to increase, information Technology and collaborative innovation will play an instrumental role helping communities, Businesses and governments deal more effectively with the tremendous complexity ahead.

The combination of volumes of data, the need for mining across different and new data types and the demand for real-time responses will require a new kind of water management intelligence and models that encompasses scalable, statistical algorithms, and massively parallel approaches.

Current data infrastructures limited in scalability and interoperability inhibit timely and effective decision making across departments and organizations.

Next generation water management systems need to be more flexible while providing more robust real-time analytics, modeling, and decision support capabilities.

Issues surrounding India’s water scarcity

More than two billion people worldwide live in regions facing water scarcity and in India this is a particularly acute crisis. Millions of Indians currently lack access to clean drinking water, and the situation is only getting worse. India’s demand for water is growing at an alarming rate.

India currently has the world’s second largest population, which is expected to overtake China’s by 2050 when it reaches a staggering 1.6 billion, putting increase strain on water resources as the number of people grows. A rapidly growing economy and a large agricultural sector stretch India’s supply of water even thinner.

Extremely poor management, unclear laws, government corruption, and industrial and human waste have caused this water supply crunch and rendered what water is available practically is useless due to the huge quantity of pollution.

In managing water resources, the Indian government must balance competing demands between urban and rural, rich and poor, the economy and the environment. However, because people have triggered this crisis, by changing their actions they have the power to prevent water scarcity from devastating India’s population, agriculture, and economy.

Key Challenges associated with managing water resources

I. Demand and Usage
In 2006 between the domestic, agricultural, and industrial sectors, India used approximately 829 billion cubic meters of water every year, which is approximately the size of Lake Erie. By 2050 demand is expected to double and consequently exceed the 1.4 trillion cubic meters of supply.

Water Demand by Sector

  • Domestic - India’s 1.1 billion people need access to clean drinking water. The demand for drinking water is divided between the urban and rural populations, and comprises about 4-6% of total water demand.
  • Agricultural - India’s agricultural sector currently uses about 90% of total water resources. Irrigated agriculture has been fundamental to economic development, but unfortunately caused groundwater depletion.
    Due to water pollution in rivers, India draws 80% of its irrigation water from groundwater.
  • Industrial - Water is both an important input for many different manufacturing and industrial sectors and used as a coolant for machines, such as textile machines.

According to the Ministry of Water Resources, industrial water use in India stands at about 50 billion cubic meters or nearly 6 per cent of total freshwater abstraction.  This demand is expected to increase dramatically in the next decade, given the enormous forecasts of 9% growth for 2007 alone.

Utilizable water, demand, and available water

II. Supply

Surface water and groundwater are the sources of India’s water supply. Other sources, such as desalination, are negligible because they are not cost effective.

Surface Water, Groundwater Over Time

Surface Water: India receives an average of 4,000 billion cubic meters of rainfall every year. Unfortunately, only 48% of rainfall ends up in India’s rivers. Due to lack of storage and crumbling infrastructure, only 18% can be utilized.

Groundwater: India possesses about 432 bcm of groundwater replenished yearly from rain and river drainage, but only 395 bcm are utilizable. Of that 395 bcm, 82% goes to irrigation and agricultural purposes, while only 18% is divided between domestic and industrial. Total static groundwater available is approximately 10,812 bcm.

III. Climate Change
Climate change is exacerbating the depleting supply of water. As the climate warms, glaciers in the Himalayas and the Tibetan Plateau have been melting. According to the IPCC, global temperatures have warmed by .76 Celsius over the last 100 years

This will result in increased flooding initially, especially during the monsoon season when rainfall is already at its heaviest.

Climate change also has an effect on rainfall patterns, but, how it will affect them is still uncertain. Ultimately rainfall may be more erratic and cause unpredictable weather.

IV. Pollution
Given that India does not regulate water usage, it should come as no surprise that there is also little regulation on pollution and even less enforcement of what regulations do exist. Millions have been spent on pollution clean-up, but no one knows where it went because no changes have been seen.

Over 21% of transmissible diseases in India are related to unsafe water. Millions of the poorest are affected by preventable diseases caused by inadequate water supply and sanitation.

V. Water Management

The tragedy of India’s water scarcity is that the crisis could have been largely avoided with better water management practices. There has been a distinct lack of attention to water legislation, water conservation, efficiency in water use, water recycling, and infrastructure.

Historically water has been viewed as an unlimited resource that did not need to be managed as a scarce commodity or provided as a basic human right.
These attitudes are changing in India; there is a growing desire for decentralized management developing, which would allow local municipalities to control water as best needed for their particular region.

Solution – To manage water in a better way


An immediate solution to India’s water crisis is to change water management practices by regulating usage with effective legislation.

Another proposed solution to the water crisis is the privatization of water. Proponents claim that a privatized water supply would prevent waste, improve efficiency, and encourage innovation.

India is also considering large-scale engineering projects, similar to those adopted in China, such as the South-to-North Water Diversion Project. The most talked about project is the $112 billion Interlinking of Rivers project. The ILR was approved by the president in 2002 and is due to be completed in 2016. This project will link all 37 rivers by thousands of miles of canals and dozens of large dams. This project is intended to increase the amount of water available for irrigation and would add 34,000mw of hydropower to the national pool.

The Indian government is already trying to get states to start rainwater harvesting in order to more efficiently tap into the huge quantity of monsoon rain.

Conclusion:

Water scarcity in India is predominantly a manmade problem; therefore if India makes significant changes in the way it thinks about water and manages its resources soon, it could ward off, or at least mollify, the impending crisis. India has had success with water infrastructure development, which allowed the country to take advantage of its water resources in the first place and achieve food security.

India needs to make water supply a national priority the way it has made food security and economic growth priorities in the past. India’s need for a comprehensive management program is so severe because of its rapidly depleting water supply, environmental problems, and growing population.

Finally, India could become the stage for major international water wars because so many rivers that originate in India supply water to other countries. India has the power to avoid this dark future if people take action immediately: start conserving water, begin to harvest rainwater, treat human, agricultural, and industrial waste effectively, and regulate how much water can be drawn out of the ground.

Remember!
Today's rain water is tomorrow's life saver!
Save water it will save you later!
 

Source :
http://www.ibm.com/ibm/ideasfromibm/us/smartplanet/topics/water-management/20090316/index.shtml
http://www.arlingtoninstitute.org/wbp/global-water-crisis/606#
http://edugreen.teri.res.in/explore/water/watintro.htm
http://www-304.ibm.com/easyaccess/fileserve?contentid=182044

 
 
 
Christmas Pudding
Ingredients:
Refined flour (Maida) 80 grams Sultanas 90 grams
Salt a pinch Cherries 60 grams
Bread crumbs 90 grams Candied orange peel or mixed fruit peels, finely chopped 45 grams
Butter 60 grams Almonds, blanched and peeled, chopped 30 grams
Cinnamon powder 1/2 teaspoon Carrot, peeled and chopped, finely 120 grams
Nutmeg powder 1/2 teaspoon Apple, peeled and chopped, finely 270 grams
Mace powder 1/2 teaspoon Eggs, beaten 3
Lemon rind 1/2 teaspoon Orange juice 1/2 cup
Vegetarian suet 120 grams Sherry 60 milliliters
Brown sugar, dark 120 grams Beer 90 milliliters
Currants 120 grams    


Method
:
Sieve flour and salt together. Mix in breadcrumbs with the flour. Rub in butter into the flour and breadcrumb mixture. Add spice powders, lemon rind, suet, sugar, dried fruits, candied peels and nuts. Add carrot, apple, lightly beaten eggs and orange juice. Add sherry, beer and leave it covered overnight. Next day transfer the batter into two basins, cover with greaseproof paper and foil and then steam in a double boiler continuously for seven hours at a steady temperature. When done cover and keep it overnight in a cool place. Reheat for atleast two hours before serving.

Recipe taken from : http://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe.aspx?RecipeId=2719&Header=Searched%20Recipe&MenuId=0

 
Gajar Halwa
Ingredients:
Carrots 8-10 medium Milk 2 cups
Cashewnuts 5-6 Green cardamom powder 1/4 teaspoon
Almonds 5-6 Mawa (khoya) 1 cup
Raisins 10-15 Sugar 3/4 cup
Pure ghee 3 tablespoons Silver warq 1 sheet
 
Method:
Peel, wash and grate carrots. Chop cashew nuts. Blanch almonds in half a cup of hot water for five minutes. Drain, cool, peel and slice them. Wash raisins and pat them dry. Heat pure ghee in a thick-bottomed pan; add grated carrots and sauté for five minutes. Add milk, green cardamom powder and cook on medium heat for five to six minutes or until the milk evaporates and the carrots are cooked. Stir in the grated khoya and sugar and cook for two to three minutes or till the sugar melts and mixes well, stirring continuously. Continue to cook for two minutes more. Garnish with chopped cashew nuts, sliced almonds and raisins. Decorate with silver warq. Serve hot or at room temperature.

Recipe taken from : http://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe.aspx?RecipeId=3538&Header=Indian%20Recipe&MenuId=9#

 
Chocolate Cake
Ingredients:
Self raising flour 250 grams Powdered sugar 250 grams
Baking powder 2 teaspoons Eggs 4
Salt a pinch Buttermilk 1 cup
Cocoa powder 3-4 tablespoons Vanilla essence 1 teaspoon
Butter /margarine 250 grams    

Method:

Preheat oven to 180º C. Grease an eight inch round tin. Sieve self-raising flour with baking powder, salt and cocoa powder. Mix together softened butter with sugar and beat well with a wire whisk or electric beater till light and fluffy. Mix in one egg at a time.Fold in flour and cocoa mixture two to three spoons at a time, taking a little of buttermilk to make a smooth batter. Lastly mix in vanilla essence. Pour batter in prepared cake tin and bake at 180º C for thirty five to forty minutes.
Recipe taken from : http://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe.aspx?RecipeId=3326&Header=Indian%20Recipe&MenuId=9
 
Nachos

Corn chips layered with baked beans and cheese and salsa sauce are poured on it.

Ingredients:
Tortillas 16 Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Baked beans 1/2 cup Salt to taste
FOR SALSA   Cheese sauce  
Onion , chopped 1 medium Oil 1 tablespoon
Tomatoes, chopped 3 large Garlic, crushed 5-6 cloves
Yellow capsicum, chopped 1/2 White sauce 1/2 cup
Jalapeno, chopped 1 small Milk 1/4 cup
Green chillies, chopped 2-3 Mozzarella cheese, grated 1 cup
Fresh coriander leaves, chopped 2 tablespoons    
Method:
Mix ingredients for salsa sauce. Set aside in a bowl. For cheese sauce, heat oil in a pan. Add crushed garlic and sauté. Add white sauce and milk to dilute. Mix well and add grated processed or mozzarella cheese. Stir. Spread the corn chips on a serving plate. Spread a layer of baked beans. Pour cheese sauce and top it with salsa sauce. Serve the remaining salsa sauce separately in a bowl.
Recipe taken from :
http://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe.aspx?RecipeId=2476&Header=Searched%20Recipe&MenuId=0
http://www.channel4.com/food/images/mb/Channel4/4Food/recipes/delicious/1186_3.jpg
Sizzling Brownie with Vanilla Ice-cream

A unique sizzling dessert served topped with chocolate sauce

Ingredients:
Brownies 4
Vanilla ice cream 4 scoops
FOR CHOCOLATE SAUCE  
Dark chocolate, grated 1 cup
Fresh cream 1 cup
Almonds, chopped 8 - 10
Walnuts, chopped 8 - 10
Method:  
Heat a sizzler plate. Place grated dark chocolate in a Microwave bowlMelt it on Microwave HIGH (100%) for two minutes. Remove and mix in fresh cream. Add chopped almonds and walnuts. Pour chocolate sauce in a beaker. Layer the sizzler plate carefully with aluminium foil. Place one brownie on it. Place one scoop of vanilla ice cream on the brownie. Cover generously with chocolate sauce. Let it sizzle on the hot plate. Serve immediately. Repeat the same with other brownies.
 
Recipe taken from :
http://www.sanjeevkapoor.com/Recipe.aspx?RecipeId=1776&Header=Searched%20Recipe&MenuId=0
 
 

The all-in- one that’s one of kind

Apple introduced the first iMac more than a decade ago. And the design philosophy remains the same:
an all-in-one computer that’s as powerful as it is beautiful.
 

Big, beautiful displays

  • 21.5-inch and 27-inch displays
    The new iMac has come a long way from the first 15-inch iMac. Take one look and you’ll see just how far. A 21.5-inch or 27-inch display with edge-to-edge glass covers nearly the entire front of the enclosure. When all you see is the display, nothing gets between you and what’s onscreen. Movies, TV shows, websites, photos — everything looks stunning on the new 16:9 widescreen iMac display.
  • LED backlighting. One bright idea
    Full brightness with no waiting. That’s the big advantage of the LED-backlit iMac display. Unlike most displays that take time to warm up before they reach maximum brightness, an LED-backlit display is instantly on and uniformly bright. LED backlighting also gives you greater control over screen brightness. So you can finely tune the iMac display to suit the ambient light in even the dimmest room.
  • More pixels. Better picture
    The new iMac offers some prime pixel real estate. The 21.5-inch, 1920-by-1080 display has 17 percent more pixels than the previous 20-inch iMac. The 27-inch, 2560-by-1440 display has a whopping 78 percent more pixels than the 21.5-inch iMac. And a 1000:1 contrast ratio gives you more vibrant colors and blacker blacks. All that in a widescreen display with a 16:9 aspect ratio — the same as an HD TV.
  • IPS technology
    The iMac display is designed to look great from almost any angle. A technology called in-plane switching (IPS) makes this possible. Whether you’re sitting in front of the display or standing off to the side, you’ll get a perfect picture with superb color consistency and no loss of detail.

All-in-one simplicity

  • Evolution of iMac
    It was a great idea then, and it’s a great idea now. The all-in-one design of the first flat-panel iMac cleaned up the desktop. It put everything you need — display, processor, graphics card, hard drive, optical drive, memory, and more — inside one simple enclosure. New technology inside and out makes the new iMac a worthy addition to the all-in-one dynasty.
  • Cool, quiet components
    The wider iMac display allows more room to separate the two hottest components, the CPU and the GPU. This keeps things cool inside the iMac enclosure. Apple engineers also implemented an intelligent control system that monitors temperatures and delivers just the right amount of airflow to critical components. And the three fans inside iMac have been tuned to be ultraquiet. The result of all this tinkering with heat and sound? A system that operates at 18 decibels when idle — so quiet, you hardly know it’s on.*
  • Faster processors
    Quad-core power

    The available quad-core Intel Core i5 or Core i7 “Nehalem” processor in the 27-inch iMac puts four processing cores on one die, so data doesn’t have to travel far to get from core to core. This boosts application performance up to 2x over the previous-generation iMac.1 And unlike systems that connect memory to the processor through a separate controller, these quad-core processors connect memory directly to the processor, improving memory bandwidth up to 2.5x.2

    Turbo Boost
    A quad-core iMac also benefits from Turbo Boost. If you’re using an application that doesn’t need every core, Turbo Boost shuts off the idle cores while simultaneously increasing the speed of the active ones.

    Built for more cores
    Mac OS X Snow Leopard is designed to take advantage of this advanced processor architecture, so every Intel processor reaches its full potential on iMac.
  • Faster graphics
    Start with advanced graphics.

    The 21.5-inch iMac offers great graphics performance with the integrated NVIDIA GeForce 9400M graphics processor or the ATI Radeon HD 4670.
    The 27-inch iMac comes with dedicated high-performance ATI graphics across the line.

    Upgrade to top-of-the-line graphics.
    The ATI Radeon HD 4670 graphics processor delivers up to 4x faster performance than the NVIDIA GeForce 9400M — ideal for 3D games and graphics-intensive applications.3 For the ultimate in graphics performance, choose a 27-inch iMac with the ATI Radeon HD 4850 graphics processor.
  • iMac does more, faster
    Viewing and editing photos

    The new iMac is faster at importing photos and performing basic editing tasks — things  like removing red-eye and erasing small blemishes — in iPhoto. If you’re a photo fanatic who loves the power and precision of more professional applications, the 2.8GHz quad-core iMac gives you up to 2x faster performance with Aperture.

    Video editing
    Shot some video you want to edit fast and share with friends? Large iMac displays and powerful processors are perfect for editing and stabilizing shaky video in iMovie. For more complex editing and encoding tasks, upgrade to the 2.8GHz quad-core processor and get up to 2.3x faster performance with Final Cut Studio.

    Playing games
    Games scream on iMac, thanks to advanced ATI graphics. The discrete ATI Radeon HD 4670 processor delivers up to 4.4x faster performance than the integrated NVIDIA GeForce 9400M processor.3 That’ll keep you on your game, even inside the complex 3D environments of Call of Duty 4 or Doom 3. Or choose the ATI Radeon HD 4850 processor for the ultimate in iMac graphics performance.

  • Built-in Wi-Fi

    High-speed 802.11n wireless technology is built into iMac. And with Time Capsule or the AirPort Express Base Station, every computer in every room can wirelessly connect to iMac, the Internet, and each other.³ Over this network, everyone can print, surf the web, and play music on iTunes through your home stereo — wirelessly.

    The world’s first Multi-Touch mouse - Wireless Magic Mouse

    Every iMac comes with the wireless Magic Mouse: the world’s first Multi-Touch mouse. Use it once and you’ll wonder how you ever used anything else. There’s no scroll ball, no clunky wheel, no cord, and no visible button. Instead, Magic Mouse uses Multi-Touch technology to let you control everything with simple gestures. Give them a try and you’ll find that Magic Mouse changes the way you interact with your computer. Built-in software lets you configure Magic Mouse any way you want. Its smooth, seamless design is ambidextrous, and it supports two-button clicking - without buttons. Like magic.



    Wireless keyboard


    iMac banishes desktop clutter completely with a wireless keyboard to go with the wireless Magic Mouse. This low-profile keyboard takes up less desk space - 24 percent less - than larger keyboards. There’s no numeric keypad, so you can place your mouse comfortably next to the keyboard. And built-in Bluetooth means there are no cables to connect.

    The incredibly thin Apple Wireless Keyboard sits on your desk surrounded by nothing but glorious space. It’s cable-free, so you’re free to type wherever you like - with the keyboard in front of your computer or even on your lap. Not only does the Apple Wireless Keyboard come standard with the new iMac, it’s perfect for any Bluetooth-enabled Mac.

    The Bluetooth connection

    Your Mac works with the Apple Wireless Keyboard through Bluetooth capabilities built into both. Just follow a few simple steps to pair them. Then you can move your keyboard anywhere within range and wirelessly type away.One less battery. All the difference.

    An iSight camera, hidden in plain view. iSight camera.

    Look closely: Hidden behind the glass display at the top of iMac is an iSight camera. Use it with iChat, and you can be anywhere without actually being there. Video chat with up to three of your friends, share a video with a colleague, or present to a client.4 Use iSight with Photo Booth for fun photo effects. And there’s no need to waste valuable primping time installing software or configuring the camera. Like everything Mac, iSight just works.

    iMAC and the environment

    Apple designs products with the environment in mind. That’s why iMac is energy efficient, free of many harmful toxins, and highly recyclable.
    • Efficient power supply
      iMac includes a highly efficient power supply that reduces the amount of power wasted when bringing electricity from the wall to your computer. Lower power consumption reduces energy bills and lessens the environmental impact of greenhouse gas emissions from power plants.
    • Recyclability
      Because iMac is made from materials such as aluminum and glass, it’s more likely to be recycled and reused at the end of its long, productive life.
    • The EPEAT Gold rating
      Through its innovative and environmentally friendly design, iMac has earned the highest rating of EPEAT Gold. The Electronic Product Environmental Assessment Tool, or EPEAT, evaluates the environmental impact of a product based on how recyclable it is, how much energy it uses, and how it’s designed and manufactured.
Source : http://www.apple.com/imac/
 
 
BMW Z4 Roadster

The exterior of the BMW Z4 Roadster.
A roadster designed the way only BMW can: the classic proportions of the stretched bonnet and short overhangs are complimented by the low seats near to the rear axle to grant the driver a perfect feel for the road. The modern shape, an interplay of striking contours and soft mergers, fully captures the character of this vehicle from its characteristic kidney grille to the powerful wheelarches at the rear. However, it's the way this roadster effortlessly negotiates straights and bends that makes it truly like no other.

The interior of the BMW Z4 Roadster.
A perfect fit that leaves plenty of room for exploration. Like a well-tailored suit, the BMW Z4 Roadster is expertly customised to meet the needs of the driver. From the asymmetrical centre console to the optimally positioned instruments and round control elements that echo the legendary BMW Z8, a journey inside this vehicle offers a new discovery in elegance every time. Even with the roof closed, the overwhelming feeling of freedom remains and the bond between the driver, the vehicle and the road is as close as ever.

The retractable hardtop of the BMW Z4 Roadster.
The first BMW roadster with a hardtop. Its sophisticated design means the characteristic low-slung appearance remains unaltered even with the top down. This is possible thanks to the optimal folding of the two aluminium roof shells in approximately 20 seconds. With the top closed, the roof line of the roadster adopts a coupé-style silhouette, and the generous side and rear windows ensure captivating panorama views. Whether you choose to drive with the roof open or closed, it's never a question of style but always of the moment.

Engines and Chassis

The straight six-cylinder petrol engines in the BMW Z4 sDrive35i.
Why does a roadster have an elongated bonnet? To accommodate six cylinders in a row. This is because only straight six-cylinder engines provide the perfect combination of weight and power coupled with dynamic balance and sophisticated smoothness. And in the BMW Z4 sDrive35i, High Precision Injection and Twin Turbo help release up to 225 kW (306 hp) on command.

Dynamic Driving Control in the BMW Z4 Roadster.
How would you like to drive today? Dynamic Driving Control gives you total control to meet your or your passengers' needs. The system enables you to vary the set-up of the car at the touch of a button. One touch is all it takes to switch to the Sport+ mode to noticeably change the character of the vehicle. The engine is more responsive, steering and the adaptive M suspension become tauter, and the sport automatic transmission reacts quicker. And if you want to step off the pace a little, all you have to do is push the button for Normal mode. With three modes to choose from, the BMW Z4 Roadster offers a complete package to suit every driving mood.

BMW Effectient Dynamics
BMW EfficientDynamics in the BMW Z4 Roadster
Behind BMW EfficientDynamics lies a package of intelligent features which considerably reduce emissions and improve fuel consumption while, at the same time, boosting performance. They ensure that the BMW Z4 Roadster sets new standards in terms of the efficiency and economy of its engine thanks to Brake Energy Regeneration, Electric Power Steering and a host of intelligent, technological modifications. Together, they solve the "power vs. fuel consumption" dilemma in a way that's never been seen before.

Electric Power Steering (EPS) in the BMW Z4 Roadster
To give you more bends per litre, an electric motor is used to assist the steering. The advantage compared to traditional hydraulic systems is that it only needs electricity when the car is actually changing direction. If the car is travelling in a straight line or round a corner at a constant angle, the electric motor is idle and does not draw any power.

Aerodynamics on the BMW Z4 Roadster
The two-part hardtop makes it possible to combine a unique roadster experience with outstanding aerodynamics. A comprehensive and sophisticated concept that takes even the smallest detail into account and ensures that all components, from the air intake valves to the boot door, work in harmony to reduce air resistance and thus fuel consumption - especially at high speeds. Make the wind work for you and not against you.

Ergonomics and Safety
Run-flat tyres on the BMW Z4 Roadster

Say goodbye to roadside tyre changes. Thanks to special side-wall reinforcement, the BMW Z4 Roadster's standard run-flat tyres are capable of being driven a further 250 km even after a puncture. The benefits make themselves felt far beyond that. The need for a spare tyre is eliminated, reducing weight and freeing boot space on every single journey. In addition, the standard Tyre Pressure Indicator (TPI) warns the driver whenever there is a fall in tyre pressure

Adaptive Headlights with variable light distribution on the BMW Z4 Roadster.
On a winding road at night, Adaptive Headlights move in harmony with the bend ahead: the beams of the BMW Z4 Roadster's headlights stay on the road and the light beam is adapted according to the vehicle's speed. When driving in the city, a low beam is used to better illuminate the road immediately ahead without dazzling oncoming drivers. And when driving at higher speeds, the Xenon headlights are raised to increase visibility. The result: outstanding illumination and a more relaxed driving experience.

Safety systems in the BMW Z4 Roadster.
A precisely-designed network of suspension, engine management, brakes and tyres, plus Dynamic Stability Control - all with one single objective: to keep the BMW Z4 Roadster safely on track, even in the most demanding situations. The head-thorax airbags are ideally positioned in the seats and are deployed as needed to deliver split-second protection for the vehicle's occupants, should a collision be unavoidable. And the particularly rigid side sills efficiently distribute energy in the case of a side impact.

BMW Z4 Roadster specification sheet
The BMW Z4 Roadster specification sheet contains the standard profile and optional equipment offered in India.
To Download the BMW Z4 Roadster Specification Sheet Click Here

Equipment and Accessories

Exterior Equipment
Foldable wind stop for the BMW Z4 Roadster.
The wind stop on the BMW Z4 Roadster has been specially designed to offer the driver and passenger maximum protection even at high speeds. Thanks to the easy-to-use lever, draft in the cockpit can be reduced and comfort increased. Driver and passenger are free to choose their individual roadster feeling by adjusting the side windows, and the wind stop can be folded and stored easily when not in use.

Interior Equipment
Sports seats for the BMW Z4 Roadster.
Ergonomic and aesthetic: the optional sports seats were developed for drivers with performance on their minds. Integrated air cushions adjust the backrest width to optimally suit your body and driving style. And at the touch of a button, you can adjust the optional four-way lumber supports so that the horizontal and vertical air cushions provide the perfect contact surface between the seat and your back - contact that allows you to experience true roadster driving in pure comfort.

Communication
USB/audio interface for the BMW Z4 Roadster.
How do you navigate through a library of 10,000 songs? Preferably on the road using the multifunction steering wheel or iDrive button. Almost all common MP3 players, USB sticks and iPods can be integrated effortlessly with the audio system. The title of the track being played is displayed either in iDrive or on the radio display. The internal hard drive operated via a USB 2.0 interface is integrated in the glove compartment, and players and iPhones can be operated directly using the USB connection in the central console.

Source : http://www.bmw.in/in/en/newvehicles/z4/z4/2009/introduction.html
 
 
How To Keep Your Car Gleaming New... All The Time!
1) A Wash A Week Keeps Your Car Clean & Slick

  • Much as you wish that your car will remain clean by itself, it just won’t happen. Dust will accumulate even if you just keep it in your garage.
    • There’s only one thing to do. Wash your car ! It’s very important that you wash your car especially after you’ve driven in the rain. If you let the water droplets dry naturally, especially under the hot sun, there will be tough-to-remove watermark stains on your
      paintwork.
    • The first thing you need to wash your car is a clean and soft terry cloth. Alternatively, you can use cloth diapers as well. You can get these easily at the baby’s section in your local departmental store. They’re cheap and it works.
    • Start off by hosing down your car to remove any dirt, mud or grime. Then mix 3 caps-full of shampoo with around 20oz (a small bucket) of water. Apply the shampoo mixture to your car using the cloth/diaper. Hose off the shampoo once you’ve finished shampooing the car. Use a cloth under running water to wipe off any remaining shampoo residue. It is VERY important that you wipe your car dry with another clean terry cloth/diaper. Make sure your entire car is wiped dry.
    • Next, clean the rims of your car. Brake dust normally accumulates there and cleaning it will make a huge difference in how your car looks. It’s pointless to have clean paintwork when your car rims are dirty. It’s also advisable to vacuum the inside of your car every week or every other week. You spend your time inside the car, so cleaning the interior just makes sense.

2) A Monthly Wax Keeps The Shine To The Max

  • Waxing your car will keep your paintwork gleaming new. You can either send it to an auto detailer or do it yourself. It’s actually not that difficult to wax your car. If you have an hour or so of spare time, then try waxing your car yourself.
  • It’s important that you wash and wipe dry your car before waxing.
    NEVER wax your car before washing/drying it! It’s best to park your car under in a shady area when waxing.
  • Use the included sponge and apply the wax in a small circular motion. Wax your car one section at a time, remembering which section you started with.
    Finish applying wax on the entire car.
  • Wipe off the excess wax using a soft terry cloth/cloth diaper. Start with the first panel that you applied the wax and continue from there. You’ll find the wax residue accumulating on your cloth. Shake it off periodically and continue to remove excess wax until you’ve finished all panels.
  • Look carefully and check for remaining wax residue. Use your cloth to clean any remaining residue.
  • To prepare your cloth for your next wax, wash it with a liquid softener. It’s fine to use the liquid softener that you use for your clothes.
  • This guarantees there isn’t any remaining dirt/grime that may scratch your car during your next waxing session.

3) Wax Your Tyre Next O’ Sire

  • For that shiny, wet look, wax your tyres after every wash/wax.
  • The trigger spray makes it easy to apply. You literally need less than 5 minutes for this but applying tyre spray/wax makes a big difference.

4) Condition That Leather To Help It Fight The Weather
  • Make sure you clean and condition your leather seats at least once every 2 months if you car comes with leather seats.
  • Apply the conditioner with a clean cloth/cloth diaper, leave for 15 minutes and wipe off excess conditioner.

    Your leather will look and smell like new if you do this every month.
    This maintains the interior looking like new.

 5) Your Car’s Now Shiny So You Can Be Happy

  • Your car will look like it’s brand new if you follow this routine. Friends and family will think you’ve just bought a new car even though it’s 3 years old.
  • The best thing is when it comes time to sell your car. A car with gleaming new paintwork and a clean interior makes a strong impression and will automatically raise the selling price of your car!
Source :
http://news.carjunky.com/exterior_car_care/how_to_keep_your_car_new_looking.shtml#
http://www.autoindia.com/Column/ColumnArticle.aspx?id=526
 
 

Tips for Better Work-Life Balance

1. Figure Out What Really Matters to You in Life

Getting your priorities clear is the first and most essential step toward achieving a well-balanced life.
Take a couple days off from work to contemplate the following series of questions:

  • If my life could focus on one thing and one thing only, what would that be?
  • If I could add a second thing, what would that be?
  • A third?
  • A fourth?
  • A fifth?

Typical top-five list might include some of the following:

  • Children
  • Spouse
  • Satisfying career
  • Community service
  • Religion/spirituality
  • Health
  • Sports
  • Art
  • Hobbies, such as gardening
  • Adventure/travel

"Split your time and your mind so that you're thinking about work when you're at work and you're paying attention to the baby when you're with your family."

2. Drop Unnecessary Activities

By making a concrete list of what really matters to you, you may discover you're devoting too much time to activities that aren't a priority, and you can adjust your schedule accordingly.

3. Protect Your Private Time

You would probably think twice before skipping out on work, a parent-teacher conference, or a doctor's appointment. Your private time deserves the same respect. "Carve out hours that contribute to yourself and your relationship".
Protecting your private time often leads to "greater satisfaction in both work life and personal life, greater productivity, and more creativity."

4. Accept Help to Balance Your Life

Allow yourself to rely on your partner, family members, or friends -- anyone who can watch the kids or run an errand while you focus on other top priorities.

"Try tag-teaming,"

Hobfoll suggests, "One spouse works out before dinner, one after dinner, while the other watches the kids."

Tag-teaming is a great way to create extra free time," Hobfoll says.



5. Plan Fun and Relaxation

Fun and relaxation are an essential part of living a well-balanced life "Remember, you make time for what you want to make time for,"

Fortgang says, If something is important to you, don't brush it aside with a dismissive
"I don't have time for that."
You are in charge of your own schedule - it's up to you to make time.
 
Source : www.webmd.com/balance/guide/5-strategies-for-life-balance
 
 
Certain Facts about Christmas
Names of Santa Claus Around the World  

Santa Claus, a jolly fat old man with a white beard and a red suit, is a legendary bearer of gifts to children at Christmas Eve (December 24) around the world.

He is well known by many other names such as Saint Nicholas, Saint Nick, Father Christmas, Santa, Santy and Kris Kringle.

Santa Claus being the personification of the spirit of Christmas is a well known gift-giving figure in various cultures around the world and as such, there are different names that he is also known by in different locations or countries in the world.

Where the Tradition of Christmas Trees came from?

Saint Boniface, a monk from Crediton, Devonshire, England who established Christian churches in France and Germany in the 7th Century, one day came upon a group of pagans gathered around a big oak tree about to sacrifice a child to the god Thor. To stop the sacrifice and save the child's life Boniface felled the tree with one mighty blow of his fist. In its place grew a small fir tree.

The saint told the pagan worshipers that the tiny fir was the Tree of Life and stood for the eternal life of Christ.

It is also fascinating to know that Christmas trees are grown in all 50 states including Hawaii and Alaska?

The first Christmas trees

The first reference of a fir tree decorated for Christmas is at Riga in Latvia in 1510. In 1521, the Princess Hlne de Mecklembourg introduced the Christmas tree to Paris after marrying the Duke of Orleans.

The Christmas tree was introduced to the United States by German settlers and by Hessian mercenaries paid to fight in the Revolutionary War. In 1804, US soldiers stationed at Fort Dearborn (Chicago) hauled trees from surrounding woods to their barracks.

Britain was introduced to the Christmas tree in 1841, when Queen Victoria's German husband, Prince Albert brought a Christmas tree to Windsor Castle for the Royal family.

Christmas tree decorations
Trees were decorated with apples, cakes and candies for many centuries.
Martin Luther was the first to use candles on trees in the late 16th Century.
In 1842, Charles Minnegrode introduced the custom of decorating trees to the US in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Source: http://www.didyouknow.org/christmas/trees.htm

 
 
 

Water Harvesting Initiatives in BPCL

Rain water harvesting is the technique of collection and storage of rainwater at surface or in sub surface aquifer before it is lost as surface runoff. The augmented resource can be harvested in the time of need. Rain water harvesting schemes for underground bore well recharge have been implemented for various buildings in BPCL Staff Residential Colony at Azizbaug, Chembur, Mumbai  in two phases by collecting water from terraces. Water from roof tops have been diverted through a network of PVC pipelines to the seven percolation pits whereby rain water collected is added to the ground water. The estimated quantity of water harvested through this system is 250 lakhs litres per year. A scheme of rain water harvesting also has been implemented in the co-generation power plant cooling tower pump house area at the Mumbai Refinery of BPCL. Roof water collected at Kochi refinery of BPCL would be around 10,000 Kl/Annum. The total investment involved is around Rs.25 Lakh.

We are also harvesting rain water fall on the land area of our kochi refinery. The surface runoff from around 8 lakhs sq. m of land area routed through open drains is collected in a large detention pond. The topography of this land is ideal for collecting the entire surface runoff to a low lying area without expending much on constructing drains or diversion canals etc. low lying wetland was indentified for the construction of the pond and earthen bund was constructed all around the low-lying area to hold the surface run off.  We are now collecting around 1,25,000 kl of water during the monsoon period through the total surface runoff generated in this area is much more than the capacity of the detention pond. The work was completed at an overall cost of Rs.150 lakh.

At Manmad BPCL hit upon a novel idea to construct a water reservoir with HDPE lining which is basically a low cost alternative.
With this sheet in place, within two days our 250 kl water reservoir was complete and it was a very economical alternative to conventional methods of rain water harvesting.

Rain water harvesting system is used to recharge the ground water system at our Retail outlets. The rain water collected from canopy roofs and the Sales building roof our petrol pumps of BPCL is directed to the percolation pit provided at the pump premises. The water thus collected is filtered and allowed to percolate down to reach the substrata. This system has been done at more than 100 Retail Outlets in Southern Region. Thus BPCL is on its way to becoming a water positive company by taking more and more such initiatives.