A new guide providing an overview of how environmental technologies work and their suitability for different applications has been published by the National Skills Academy for Environmental Technologies (NSA).
Introduction to Environmental Technology Systems is designed as resource material for those studying the level 3 QCF Award in the Fundamental Principles of Environmental Technology Systems, available through the Skills Academy, but can also be purchased as a stand-alone document.

NSA said: 'This is ideal for anyone interested in the basic principles of the main technologies, such as businesses considering a move into renewables installation, or sales and service teams who need to advise customers.'

The material covers the fundamentals of micro-renewable and water conservation technologies, including:

· the working principles of these technologies
· the building location/building features required for potential installation
· regulations surrounding each technology
· typical advantages and disadvantages associated with these systems.

Technologies covered are solar thermal hot water, heat pumps, biomass, solar photovoltaics, micro-wind, micro-hydropower, micro combined heat and power, rainwater harvesting and grey water re-use.

The guide joins a series of documents from the Skills Academy - including a guide to tendering and support on completing a pre-qualification questionnaire - aimed at helping businesses take advantage of low carbon business opportunities.

'This booklet provides a comprehensive overview of the main environmental technology systems, essential reading for non-technical employees or businesses interested in this growth area,' said Cathryn Hickey, executive director of the Skills Academy. 'We hope that through these guides we can help support small businesses in getting to grips with environmental technologies and the new avenues of work they present.'

Introduction to Environmental Technology Systems is available to buy in either booklet or loose-leaf ring binder format, priced £19.99 from www.nsaet.org.uk/products

The National Skills Academy for Environmental Technologies is a network of low carbon and renewables training. Consisting of 21 hubs, supported by a further 120 other spoke providers located nationwide, businesses can access the Skills Academy in a location close to their business.