Are ghost estates a problem? — Top green building products — Solar hybrid technology launched

Here's a few stories that might distract you somewhat from the economic doom that surrounds us. Actually though, if you want to be totally distracted, maybe ignore the first two.

On big currencies and big banks New Economics Foundation

Work begins on Europe's largest straw bale building The Guardian

Energy efficiency adds just $800 to the cost of a home, according to US research American Solar Energy Society

Are these the top ten green building products of 2010? Jetson Green

272kW hybrid solar installation launched in California Jetson Green

Green building priority number one — reduce energy use Green Building Advisor

China's coal consumption continues to grow New York Times

Five reasons electric cars will catch on The Infrastructurist