And they are for the boys, aren't they: Job offer: CEO of Renewable Fuels Agency
Yup. Saw that.
And I wondered just how many folk there are already out there in quangoland, and being joined daily by those whose skills and experience make them worth the £100k of public funds (plus dental) to make vast differences, such as one can appreciate from 'Working closely with the Board and Government Departments to ensure that key targets and statutory obligations are met and exceeded.'
I feel better about my kids' futures already.
Monday, March 17, 2008
PROF's POSER - Clinging to the right notion?
Smug alert!
As I write, I am tucking into the remnants of yesterday's Sunday lunch. Basically all the bits the boys didn't fancy, microwaved for 2 glorious minutes.
Now, here's the thing.
It was mircowaved in one of the containers that yesterday's pie came in. Makes sense.
Thing is, that combo lurked in the fridge (once it had cooled down outside first... I know my stuff. Well, some of it) overnight, sealed away under a wrapping of... clingfilm!
Now, I don't know about you, but the very idea of tearing of a strip of extra plastic these days was about as far from my mind as possible.
But my wife, bless her, gave me pause. Because, as she pointed out, I was going to transfer the left-overs from the tray to a plate or Tupperware, and in the latter case then tip onto a plate to heat up. And once all that was over, there was going to be some hot water washing required.
So my poser for the day is... which has the better enviROI? The consequences of 1 sqft of thin plastic (now in the recycling bin, where it will doubtless not be appreciated - see LABELLING), or the couple of cups of hot water to clean the crockery?
This oen is up there with storing PDFs vs. printing and deleting.
As I write, I am tucking into the remnants of yesterday's Sunday lunch. Basically all the bits the boys didn't fancy, microwaved for 2 glorious minutes.
Now, here's the thing.
It was mircowaved in one of the containers that yesterday's pie came in. Makes sense.
Thing is, that combo lurked in the fridge (once it had cooled down outside first... I know my stuff. Well, some of it) overnight, sealed away under a wrapping of... clingfilm!
Now, I don't know about you, but the very idea of tearing of a strip of extra plastic these days was about as far from my mind as possible.
But my wife, bless her, gave me pause. Because, as she pointed out, I was going to transfer the left-overs from the tray to a plate or Tupperware, and in the latter case then tip onto a plate to heat up. And once all that was over, there was going to be some hot water washing required.
So my poser for the day is... which has the better enviROI? The consequences of 1 sqft of thin plastic (now in the recycling bin, where it will doubtless not be appreciated - see LABELLING), or the couple of cups of hot water to clean the crockery?
This oen is up there with storing PDFs vs. printing and deleting.
EVENT - National Downshifting Week
No, not an attempt by Top Gear to squeeze a few more G's and reduce the mpg's by dropping a gear to take each corner sideways! Much more mellow... and green.
I came across Tracey Smith as a like-minded soul just trying to do her bit, and sharing stuff in a slightly more practical, less dogmatic way than most.
And we've stayed in touch off and on ever since. Well, thanks to my getting my digit out and sending off the newsletter, we ended up having a chat, one thing lead to another thing, and...
Well, for a start, she buttered me up big time by asking for a 'celebrity' (I'm gunning to get into the alphabet at all, but am happy and flattered and honoured to be in the company of some eco- 'A' listers there) quote for her site. Which I was happy to provide.
Then she interviewed me for her forthcoming book - 'The Book of Rubbish Ideas' - which we will of course be promoting all round when it hits the streets. With Junkk.com's strap line being 'Rubbish doesn't have to be a dirty word' there's a clear fit!
And finally, she has asked for a mention of her forthcoming 'National Downshifting Week' . From the lady herself:
'It's fast approaching the next National Downshifting Week, or should I say InterNational! Following on from polite and welcome pressure from friends and organisations in countries around the world, I decided to make this little awareness campaign fully inclusive, so that everyone who wants to can take part.
So what's the event all about? Well, in a nutshell, the simple living suggestions contained within the campaign can help you 'slow down and green up', live more sustainably and get a better work and life balance. It takes place between the 19th and 25th April and to take part, all you have to do is dip your toes into one of the ideas. If you like it and how you feel about having tried it, why not try another on day 2, day 3 and so on through the week.
IDW differs from a few other campaigns because there's not an ounce of guilt in sight! You are 'positively encouraged' to embrace living with less and to find your comfort level of downshift and every single change you make as a result of leaning towards the green will make an enormous collective difference, so believe that you're changing the world, because you are and join in with the 'thousands' of others who are focused on a bit of simple, green living this year too. Last year saw just under 11,000 people taking part worldwide - this year, with your help to spread the word too, it will easily top it, so take a look at the website and see what you fancy sinking your teeth into first!'
I came across Tracey Smith as a like-minded soul just trying to do her bit, and sharing stuff in a slightly more practical, less dogmatic way than most.
And we've stayed in touch off and on ever since. Well, thanks to my getting my digit out and sending off the newsletter, we ended up having a chat, one thing lead to another thing, and...
Well, for a start, she buttered me up big time by asking for a 'celebrity' (I'm gunning to get into the alphabet at all, but am happy and flattered and honoured to be in the company of some eco- 'A' listers there) quote for her site. Which I was happy to provide.
Then she interviewed me for her forthcoming book - 'The Book of Rubbish Ideas' - which we will of course be promoting all round when it hits the streets. With Junkk.com's strap line being 'Rubbish doesn't have to be a dirty word' there's a clear fit!
And finally, she has asked for a mention of her forthcoming 'National Downshifting Week' . From the lady herself:
'It's fast approaching the next National Downshifting Week, or should I say InterNational! Following on from polite and welcome pressure from friends and organisations in countries around the world, I decided to make this little awareness campaign fully inclusive, so that everyone who wants to can take part.
So what's the event all about? Well, in a nutshell, the simple living suggestions contained within the campaign can help you 'slow down and green up', live more sustainably and get a better work and life balance. It takes place between the 19th and 25th April and to take part, all you have to do is dip your toes into one of the ideas. If you like it and how you feel about having tried it, why not try another on day 2, day 3 and so on through the week.
IDW differs from a few other campaigns because there's not an ounce of guilt in sight! You are 'positively encouraged' to embrace living with less and to find your comfort level of downshift and every single change you make as a result of leaning towards the green will make an enormous collective difference, so believe that you're changing the world, because you are and join in with the 'thousands' of others who are focused on a bit of simple, green living this year too. Last year saw just under 11,000 people taking part worldwide - this year, with your help to spread the word too, it will easily top it, so take a look at the website and see what you fancy sinking your teeth into first!'
Alternative views
The Indy Letters page is always a worthy scope: 'Fuel cards' to fight climate change
Often good suggestions, pithily posed (for some reason they never print mine - even when i try a do pithy)
Take the one on fuel cards. Soul of reason. What's not to like?
Thing is, I stumble with the pure 'tax fuel' notion because it doesn't seem to take into account those who live and work where a car is needed a lot more than places where it is not.
It's a complex interaction, from manufacture through purchase to use and duration to disposal that cannot be reduced so simplistically. And then there are the related issues of alternatives. You simply can't equate an Islingtonista with a Prius for the weekend jaunt to Devon, with a Midlander who has a Fiesta for the daily 100 mile round trip to the factory.
Meanwhile, as I read on to the issue of watercress (next ban?)...
... watercress has been sourced from the US for more than 20 years, many of the farms being British owned. The watercress is air-freighted on passenger-scheduled airlines, so as to reduce carbon emissions.
Try as I might, I can't see how air-freighting something reduces carbon emissions. At least without some qualifier to explain the possible alternatives.
Often good suggestions, pithily posed (for some reason they never print mine - even when i try a do pithy)
Take the one on fuel cards. Soul of reason. What's not to like?
Thing is, I stumble with the pure 'tax fuel' notion because it doesn't seem to take into account those who live and work where a car is needed a lot more than places where it is not.
It's a complex interaction, from manufacture through purchase to use and duration to disposal that cannot be reduced so simplistically. And then there are the related issues of alternatives. You simply can't equate an Islingtonista with a Prius for the weekend jaunt to Devon, with a Midlander who has a Fiesta for the daily 100 mile round trip to the factory.
Meanwhile, as I read on to the issue of watercress (next ban?)...
... watercress has been sourced from the US for more than 20 years, many of the farms being British owned. The watercress is air-freighted on passenger-scheduled airlines, so as to reduce carbon emissions.
Try as I might, I can't see how air-freighting something reduces carbon emissions. At least without some qualifier to explain the possible alternatives.
Amazing what gets missed...
I quite like Raymond Snoddy of the BBC's Newswatch programme.
Even on the on-air show he does seem to try, and though the whole format (a 'mea culpa' stuck on at dawn on the weekend to 'atone' or 'explain' (though sulky editors saying they don't see what the fuss is about hardly counts as either) for high-profile boo-boos in the peak hours seems contrived at best, just to tick a 'we're listening' box. Few complaints get followed up and fade away.
But in print he seem even more diligent, though it now occurs to me that I thought BBC journos were not supposed to write outside of Auntie to avoid accusations of... well, anything.
Anyway, check out the bit halfway down his Indy column, entitled Emily gets short shrift
I'm sorry I missed it.
Because, speaking of being tucked away, as HRH might say, one's gob is smacked that stuff is been created and broadcast that purports to be 'based on' factual, when it is nothing of the sort. It's just agenda dressed up as news, or information.
And if they can do this here, well, New York, New York, they can do it anywhere.
But then, this is a Corporation where 'staff somehow also managed to mislay champagne worth a total of £818...'.
Now I see why my licence fee must go up.
Even on the on-air show he does seem to try, and though the whole format (a 'mea culpa' stuck on at dawn on the weekend to 'atone' or 'explain' (though sulky editors saying they don't see what the fuss is about hardly counts as either) for high-profile boo-boos in the peak hours seems contrived at best, just to tick a 'we're listening' box. Few complaints get followed up and fade away.
But in print he seem even more diligent, though it now occurs to me that I thought BBC journos were not supposed to write outside of Auntie to avoid accusations of... well, anything.
Anyway, check out the bit halfway down his Indy column, entitled Emily gets short shrift
I'm sorry I missed it.
Because, speaking of being tucked away, as HRH might say, one's gob is smacked that stuff is been created and broadcast that purports to be 'based on' factual, when it is nothing of the sort. It's just agenda dressed up as news, or information.
And if they can do this here, well, New York, New York, they can do it anywhere.
But then, this is a Corporation where 'staff somehow also managed to mislay champagne worth a total of £818...'.
Now I see why my licence fee must go up.
I wonder what road tax they pay?
There's a trend afoot, epitomised by this: Lexus hybrid woos Sainsbury's chief
First we had Sir Stuart Rose in his 6 litre hydrogen 7 Series Beemer, now this.
Now I'm all for encouraging better environmental practice, but our national broadcaster doing commercials (it was on the main page - doubtless to show how 'we' can stop glaciers melting) for retailers and makers of high end greener-ish luxury motors, sorry, limos, doesn't seem the best way to bring it home to the masses. At least, in ways that might be taken in the inspirational way that will doubtless be claimed.
I'm opening a book on Sir Terry or (actually the others don't seem to have the PR direct dial to the BBC these others do, so don't get on that often for their names to register) being covered roller-skating (£17.99 a pair, with 10% off to viewers) over the Atlantic to visit the US operation.
First we had Sir Stuart Rose in his 6 litre hydrogen 7 Series Beemer, now this.
Now I'm all for encouraging better environmental practice, but our national broadcaster doing commercials (it was on the main page - doubtless to show how 'we' can stop glaciers melting) for retailers and makers of high end greener-ish luxury motors, sorry, limos, doesn't seem the best way to bring it home to the masses. At least, in ways that might be taken in the inspirational way that will doubtless be claimed.
I'm opening a book on Sir Terry or (actually the others don't seem to have the PR direct dial to the BBC these others do, so don't get on that often for their names to register) being covered roller-skating (£17.99 a pair, with 10% off to viewers) over the Atlantic to visit the US operation.
...But some jobs are more important than others
Real Climate is a good source of factual information (if pretty high end) on climate change.
Though it's pretty safe to say that the overall thrust of the forum is that it is happening, for the worst... and that man is more than probably responsible.
But I am not so sure many favours are being done, message vs. messenger-wise, by pieces such as this: Venus Unveiled
Whilst not one (it's about another planet) of the more overt 'we're all doomed and you're to blame' efforts that can grace its pages, especially in rebuttal of more climate optimistic pronouncements, I just found the overall tone interesting... and unfortunate.
One has to accept that it is inevitable, makes sense and is perfectly fair enough that professionals in such industries need to travel to meet and exchange notes. However I do always note that there is a slight trend to viewing one's job in such areas as 'different' in the emissions consequences imposed than those of others taken to task. It's not what you do, but what you get paid to do (and say, in the case of many media) that matters.
However, I have to say this is the first time to see it top and tailed quite so overtly with a less than 'sensitive', nay, irony-free review of the holiday aspects in complement. I have often teased that many selectively-green commentators, who advocate bans for quite trivial enviROI+ measures at the drop of a hat, seem to be rather less self-searching when it comes to hitting the slopes of a weekend. But I have wondered if I was being quite fair as this seemed an extreme. Perhaps not.
Maybe the forum members might have some suggestions as possible causes of the weather patterns that lead to the lack of good snow on the trails?
Though it's pretty safe to say that the overall thrust of the forum is that it is happening, for the worst... and that man is more than probably responsible.
But I am not so sure many favours are being done, message vs. messenger-wise, by pieces such as this: Venus Unveiled
Whilst not one (it's about another planet) of the more overt 'we're all doomed and you're to blame' efforts that can grace its pages, especially in rebuttal of more climate optimistic pronouncements, I just found the overall tone interesting... and unfortunate.
One has to accept that it is inevitable, makes sense and is perfectly fair enough that professionals in such industries need to travel to meet and exchange notes. However I do always note that there is a slight trend to viewing one's job in such areas as 'different' in the emissions consequences imposed than those of others taken to task. It's not what you do, but what you get paid to do (and say, in the case of many media) that matters.
However, I have to say this is the first time to see it top and tailed quite so overtly with a less than 'sensitive', nay, irony-free review of the holiday aspects in complement. I have often teased that many selectively-green commentators, who advocate bans for quite trivial enviROI+ measures at the drop of a hat, seem to be rather less self-searching when it comes to hitting the slopes of a weekend. But I have wondered if I was being quite fair as this seemed an extreme. Perhaps not.
Maybe the forum members might have some suggestions as possible causes of the weather patterns that lead to the lack of good snow on the trails?
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Off his trolley
Experiment time!We're very lucky to live in the centre of town, certainly within walking distance of most things one might need to visit.
And despite the boys now walking to school most definitely without me in tow, I can still 'pop' out daily to get a bit of this and that whilst grabbing some exercise. So a lot of fresh shopping is possible, and I usually remember a couple of hemp bags to do it with.
However, Sunday is usually when I do a dump run, and en route back pop into the supermarket for the weekly 'big' shop. Things like 24-packs of Coke, 5 kg washing powders and a few dozen juices. These, frankly, are rather beyond my shoulder to bear.
So I decided on an experiment. And you see the main feature of this pictured.
Combining a full-size dustbin and golf trolley, I cobbled together about the biggest person-powered device possible to carry out the task in one shot. And off I went.
Now there were only a few minor issues en route. One was the fact that our pavements are woeful, so it was almost impossible to get over some hazards and though others. The other was that all out and about looked at me like I was barking. Fortunately I am long past worrying about my reputation.
The shopping was also not too bad, especially as I did not get turfed out by the staff. But a few more serious issues did become clear. Firstly, whilst loading it up as I went around made sense to ensure that what I bought would fit, it was hard not to crush things as I piled stuff in. And, most of all, I fear this still ended up only about 1/4 of my normal shopping at best. A car boot can hold a fair bit.
The trip back was OK, but I am glad I had the lid on as it started raining. Also that I was strong enough to manage the load.
Yes, it was worth it, and worthy to be sure. But I have to say that one must have sympathy with those (and I am sure there are many) who through salary or circumstance don't have the time or money to contemplate much beyond grabbing a quick weekly stop at the local supermarket in their cars to get all they can in one bulk, BOGOF shot.
Something those spouting off from under their green halos would do well to bear in mind before they come out with their next smug pronouncement on what 'we' 'should' or 'should not' need to do by way of conducting our lives.
Few enjoy the idyllic lifestyle espoused by a few, who pedal gaily in the sunshine past Jethro milking his cow en route to mid-morning Pilates prior to jetting off for a weekend's diving in Dubai, able to request a quick pint squeezed fresh into the jug in the wicker pannier to sip whilst lathering up the next big eco-issue.
But it's nice to know our family at least can lug a bit more than some home on Shank's Pony for when 'they' get round to banning cars to all but those who get their travel paid for on expenses (MPs, BBC journalists, NGO directors' wives, etc).
ps: D'Uh! Spellcheck is back and I hadn't twigged 'til now.
ADDENDUM 1:
Daily Telegraph - Rehabilitate the shopping trolley! - Saw it on the BBC news, and now here. Nice to see I am ahead of the curve. I think mine is more 'cool'. The downsides remain, sadly.
Budge it?
Hasn't been a green (or any) winner, really. Here's a pretty good set of views: Talk is cheap: Round-up of Budget comments
Observer - Green budget? Don't get me started
Indy - Attack on gas-guzzling cars and plastic bags fails to satisfy environmentalists
Observer - Green budget? Don't get me started
Indy - Attack on gas-guzzling cars and plastic bags fails to satisfy environmentalists
Well, fancy that. Few do.
Public finds green warnings a bore
Hard to blame 'em, really. Note the key qualifier: '..endless green talk that is never translated into action'. Quite.
I'd love to figure out what the TV area is of the 4% who live in caves and have heard nothing.
Hard to blame 'em, really. Note the key qualifier: '..endless green talk that is never translated into action'. Quite.
I'd love to figure out what the TV area is of the 4% who live in caves and have heard nothing.
IDEA - Clad all over
One doesn't really expect to find reuse ideas on a literary site, but hey: Robin Hood was Clad in Green
I have of course, gone hunting, successfully, I am glad to say... and show... and share.
I have a very deep green car
One of the greenest you can imagine.
However, that refers mainly to its colour. Though, by being a Volvo, when I bought it over a decade ago I do recall it having soem eco-bits even then.
Sadly, being petrol, its 1.9L engine is no longer that great on any front, but I can't afford a new one and will just have to soldier on keeping it as tippy-top with servicing as I can for safety, reliability and efficiency.
Ditto my wife's 1.4L Volks, which we inherited from my Mum.
So, come the budget, I was expecting some bad news and some good news. The Volvo would get upped for its 32mpg, but the Golf would go down for its 45+.
Er, no. Both go up. The Golf by a lot.
I am trying to get to grips with the logic of this on any basis, but especially environmental. It's all academic as we need (well, I guess she could get to work other ways, but there would be consequences we cannot afford. And I need an estate to shunt around the stand, for instance. No excuses, but fair explanations) them. So all stays the same, but a load more money from us goes... where? This is futher screwed up governemnt par excellence.
Especially as, to quote the Taxpayer's Alliance: 'The notoriously un-green Hummer incurs a rise of 14%, whereas the humble Nissan Micra will rise up to 24%. That's hardly a downsizing message.' Quite.
However, that refers mainly to its colour. Though, by being a Volvo, when I bought it over a decade ago I do recall it having soem eco-bits even then.
Sadly, being petrol, its 1.9L engine is no longer that great on any front, but I can't afford a new one and will just have to soldier on keeping it as tippy-top with servicing as I can for safety, reliability and efficiency.
Ditto my wife's 1.4L Volks, which we inherited from my Mum.
So, come the budget, I was expecting some bad news and some good news. The Volvo would get upped for its 32mpg, but the Golf would go down for its 45+.
Er, no. Both go up. The Golf by a lot.
I am trying to get to grips with the logic of this on any basis, but especially environmental. It's all academic as we need (well, I guess she could get to work other ways, but there would be consequences we cannot afford. And I need an estate to shunt around the stand, for instance. No excuses, but fair explanations) them. So all stays the same, but a load more money from us goes... where? This is futher screwed up governemnt par excellence.
Especially as, to quote the Taxpayer's Alliance: 'The notoriously un-green Hummer incurs a rise of 14%, whereas the humble Nissan Micra will rise up to 24%. That's hardly a downsizing message.' Quite.
You've got to hand it to him
This is from the Dilbert Blog, by Scott Adams : On the Other Hand
Worth a read, whether you agree or not, to get a worthwhile set of extra views upon which to make a decsion. Which is kinda his point.
And at least I now know what 'cognitive dissonance' is.
And just look at the feedback!
Worth a read, whether you agree or not, to get a worthwhile set of extra views upon which to make a decsion. Which is kinda his point.
And at least I now know what 'cognitive dissonance' is.
And just look at the feedback!
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Playing with words. And fire?
I like writing. And I love what you can conjure up with words. So I am always interested in learning more on using them. Hence I subscribe to a nice little site called Daily Writing Tips.
You do learn a lot. Usually it's more factual stuff but, in this case, they delved into an area more concerned with the writer's lot: telecommuting.
And my interest was further piqued by the point made about the environmental advantages conferred.
However, as it is a rather critical aspect of the way these issues get discussed, explained, etc, I rather dangerously (these guys are literature experts) decided to pose a question and offer a thought as something didn't read right:
‘Global warming is a benefactor of telecommuting!’
Just chewing this over and wondering (which is why I read and value the tips posted), but isn’t it more the other way round: that ‘telecommuting is a benefactor to global warming mitigation’?
I do believe that ‘global warming’ (though I prefer the longer, but perhaps more accurate ‘probably man-worsened climate change’, as often the negative effects of climate change can result in colder conditions. And there is also still some credible debate on whether ‘man’ is responsible exclusively, though we sure are not helping anything much) is not a good thing, and hence for preference should be in some way dealt with through positive environmental actions on our parts. Hence the value of some qualifying descriptor.
So, might one suggest:
‘Reduced global warming is another beneficial result (or can a process be a beneficary?) of telecommuting!’
Just playing with the words. What is for sure is that reducing our need and/or desire to travel will certainly go a long way in helping lower our negative environmental impacts!
I just hope I was correct or I am going to get soooo flamed!
You do learn a lot. Usually it's more factual stuff but, in this case, they delved into an area more concerned with the writer's lot: telecommuting.
And my interest was further piqued by the point made about the environmental advantages conferred.
However, as it is a rather critical aspect of the way these issues get discussed, explained, etc, I rather dangerously (these guys are literature experts) decided to pose a question and offer a thought as something didn't read right:
‘Global warming is a benefactor of telecommuting!’
Just chewing this over and wondering (which is why I read and value the tips posted), but isn’t it more the other way round: that ‘telecommuting is a benefactor to global warming mitigation’?
I do believe that ‘global warming’ (though I prefer the longer, but perhaps more accurate ‘probably man-worsened climate change’, as often the negative effects of climate change can result in colder conditions. And there is also still some credible debate on whether ‘man’ is responsible exclusively, though we sure are not helping anything much) is not a good thing, and hence for preference should be in some way dealt with through positive environmental actions on our parts. Hence the value of some qualifying descriptor.
So, might one suggest:
‘Reduced global warming is another beneficial result (or can a process be a beneficary?) of telecommuting!’
Just playing with the words. What is for sure is that reducing our need and/or desire to travel will certainly go a long way in helping lower our negative environmental impacts!
I just hope I was correct or I am going to get soooo flamed!
Heavens Above
While it's good that all sectors of society are seeing that there is value in advocating changing our ways 'for the better' (though definitions may vary), some may not be going about it in the best way.
Newsnight
Kudos to Mr. Newell.
With the calibre of 'leader' and 'guide' we the people now have, from Church to state to media, I rather despair that we will see anything worth a damn by way of meaningful word or sensible, let alone consistent deed when it comes to the small matter of 'the biggest single issue the human race faces'.
At least if there is the slightest chance of a decent distraction, vote or rating to be had diving off on something trivial at the expense of the real issues.
Heck, next thing we'll find is some pol without a single green bone in his body is up for 'climate czar'...
Oh.
BBC - Blair wants 'climate revolution'
Newsnight
Kudos to Mr. Newell.
With the calibre of 'leader' and 'guide' we the people now have, from Church to state to media, I rather despair that we will see anything worth a damn by way of meaningful word or sensible, let alone consistent deed when it comes to the small matter of 'the biggest single issue the human race faces'.
At least if there is the slightest chance of a decent distraction, vote or rating to be had diving off on something trivial at the expense of the real issues.
Heck, next thing we'll find is some pol without a single green bone in his body is up for 'climate czar'...
Oh.
BBC - Blair wants 'climate revolution'
Friday, March 14, 2008
Nice one
Couldn't resist. Credit the Green Party (well, at least one of their 'principal speakers') for this: IF BLAIR COULDN'T CUT UK'S EMISSIONS IN 10 YEARS, WHAT HOPE THE WORLD'S?
As provided:
Green Party Principal Speak Dr. Derek Wall today labelled Tony Blair
as "no friend of the earth", and attacked the former Prime Minister's
"woeful record" on carbon emissions reduction in the decade he was
Prime Minister of the UK, questioning whether he is the right man to
lead the new global initiative to tackle climate change by cutting the
world's emissions.
Dr. Wall highlighted the fact that despite 3 manifesto pledges to
decrease emissions to 20% of 1990 levels by 2010, a year before Tony
Blair resigned as Prime Minister in 2007 the UKs carbon dioxide
emissions were the highest they have ever been under Labour - 2.2%
above 1997 levels. To be on track to meet the 2010 target, emissions
should have been around 10% lower than 1997 levels by then.
Dr. Wall said
"Tony Blair is an insane choice for climate change czar. His woeful
record in 10 years of Government saw an expansion of CO2 levels and a
criminal neglect of renewable and sustainable energy policies in
favour of more roads, more carbon intensive international trade and a
dangerous new nuclear energy programme.
"His first call should be for an end to the expansion of Heathrow and
short haul flights, a stop to the investment and promotion of
agrofuels, and a greater emphasis on renewable energy production.
"Blair is trying to create a niche in international environmental
negotiations based on an appalling record of disregard for the cause
of climate change.
"Tony Blair is no friend of the earth and everyone knows this."
I merely re-iterate my very small drum banging on the choice of messengers for such critical messages as those that will require 'selling' to the the voting public in times to come. I am afraid that anything inspired by TB on matters enviro is tainted from the off.
ENN - Britain's Blair takes on climate change - Or, cut and pasting it another way...
Greenbang - Tony Blair fancies himself as climate change saviour
I share your... um... optimism?
If ever there was a messenger who has all the heft of a lifetime of having done what he says, for the tricky task of bringing others (not yet so secure in the post-needing votes, mega-$ book tour thing) round to doing things that may not be so palatable to career, profit, economy...
Well, like you say, good luck with that.
As provided:
Green Party Principal Speak Dr. Derek Wall today labelled Tony Blair
as "no friend of the earth", and attacked the former Prime Minister's
"woeful record" on carbon emissions reduction in the decade he was
Prime Minister of the UK, questioning whether he is the right man to
lead the new global initiative to tackle climate change by cutting the
world's emissions.
Dr. Wall highlighted the fact that despite 3 manifesto pledges to
decrease emissions to 20% of 1990 levels by 2010, a year before Tony
Blair resigned as Prime Minister in 2007 the UKs carbon dioxide
emissions were the highest they have ever been under Labour - 2.2%
above 1997 levels. To be on track to meet the 2010 target, emissions
should have been around 10% lower than 1997 levels by then.
Dr. Wall said
"Tony Blair is an insane choice for climate change czar. His woeful
record in 10 years of Government saw an expansion of CO2 levels and a
criminal neglect of renewable and sustainable energy policies in
favour of more roads, more carbon intensive international trade and a
dangerous new nuclear energy programme.
"His first call should be for an end to the expansion of Heathrow and
short haul flights, a stop to the investment and promotion of
agrofuels, and a greater emphasis on renewable energy production.
"Blair is trying to create a niche in international environmental
negotiations based on an appalling record of disregard for the cause
of climate change.
"Tony Blair is no friend of the earth and everyone knows this."
I merely re-iterate my very small drum banging on the choice of messengers for such critical messages as those that will require 'selling' to the the voting public in times to come. I am afraid that anything inspired by TB on matters enviro is tainted from the off.
ENN - Britain's Blair takes on climate change - Or, cut and pasting it another way...
Greenbang - Tony Blair fancies himself as climate change saviour
I share your... um... optimism?
If ever there was a messenger who has all the heft of a lifetime of having done what he says, for the tricky task of bringing others (not yet so secure in the post-needing votes, mega-$ book tour thing) round to doing things that may not be so palatable to career, profit, economy...
Well, like you say, good luck with that.
Innovation Nation
That's the name of a Gov white paper published yesterday as reported in Latest Science News.
As I read this piece I was smiling, thinking to myself, this is another initiative launch which will achieve nothing other than create another raft of gilt edged pensioned quango jobs. It seems like I'm not the only only to look upon the announcement with more than a hint of sarcasm. This from The Register makes for hilarious reading.
Go on, read it and have a good laugh.
As I read this piece I was smiling, thinking to myself, this is another initiative launch which will achieve nothing other than create another raft of gilt edged pensioned quango jobs. It seems like I'm not the only only to look upon the announcement with more than a hint of sarcasm. This from The Register makes for hilarious reading.
Go on, read it and have a good laugh.
A few thank you's
The ECOPACK '08 show at which Junkk.com exhibited and I was a speaker ended yesterday afternoon.I intend to do a re:view, but frankly I am still struggling to get my head around where to start and on what since getting back in the wee small hours of last night.
I am just grabbing a breather between catching up on the 1000 emails in my in box in just 3 days (not a single spam, but mostly newsletters and press releases, and hence postponable, if not ignorable, but still requiring a lot of sifting for actual gold). Plus all the follow-up from the show, plus getting the stand out the car and stowed neatly for the next.
Oh, and a bunch of stuff on Junkk.com.
I really don't know where to start. But RE:tie must take priority, as this looks like our best shot at income, and if we can get a stream then we can look at getting in a few more bodies to help run this show, which is in danger of drowning in its own success by failing to serve the needs of all those who are interested in being a part, as either a user or business.
So before dashing back to all the priorities above and beyond this blog, I need to make a few thank-you's.
To Peter, a vastly expereinced F&B/FMCG marketing and sales guru who is keen to help me make RE:tie and Junkk.com realise their commercial potential, and who came to help me man the stand on both days even though he is is still just trying to understand the business enough to see if he can add value as our commercial front man. I truly hope that your belief will be more than rewarded. If the comments we had during the last two days are anything to go on, I trust you feel it will be.
To Frank and his team at BCU, who delivered the protoptypes (pictured - including a large demo version) in the nick of time, and without which we'd have been struggling to get the concept of the RE:tie across to the passing audiences. If a picture is worth a 1000 words, being able to take a cap off a bottle, peel a RE:tie off a cap, and then tie-up a bin-liner with it was about as clear a demo of the concept as one could have hoped.
And then there's all the nice folk who couldn't come to the show but wished us well, and especially those who did come to the stand and my seminar talks, and said such nice things about what we're trying to do and... more importantly... encouraged us that we look set to succeed in doing well with our site and the invention we're trying to market, that is the first real commercial embodiment of the Junkk.com philosophy of reuse in packaging, and preferably designed-in!
Oh, and Dave of Solarventi, who has kept this blog, and hence the Junkk.com front page, ticking over while I have been AWOL. And, as it transpires, may well be for a while yet as I look into the in-tray!
Let them eat cake
In a world where grain prices are rising rapidly due to shortages and the agricultural move towards growing crops for bio-fuels, and where the threat of climate change seems likely to make crop growing even more of a risk, the last thing mankind needs is a new disease strain to threaten one of our basic foodstuffs.
Unfortunately, as this from The Telegraph reports, that is exactly what we have. UG99 is a strain of stem rust that can reduce wheat yields by 40% to 70% and has already spread far faster than scientists expected.
The only saving grace for us in Europe is that it is believed that Europe is too cold for UG99 to survive. But with the onset of climate change?
The £5 gallon (£1.10/litre) of fuel is here already. How long before the £5 loaf of bread?
Unfortunately, as this from The Telegraph reports, that is exactly what we have. UG99 is a strain of stem rust that can reduce wheat yields by 40% to 70% and has already spread far faster than scientists expected.
The only saving grace for us in Europe is that it is believed that Europe is too cold for UG99 to survive. But with the onset of climate change?
The £5 gallon (£1.10/litre) of fuel is here already. How long before the £5 loaf of bread?
Just like a rubber ball....
.... he keeps bouncing back into the picture. Who, you ask? The one and only Tony Blair, until recently our PM for some 10 years, during which he did absolutely sweet fanny adams about climate change.
So what's he up to now? He's morphed into a bright green eco friendly Environmental Flash Gordon and he's going to save the planet. Yes it's true, it's reported in Reuters and in The Guardian.
"The fact of the matter is that if we do not take substantial action over the next two years, then by 2020 we will thinking seriously about adaptation rather than prevention."
This from the man who achieved nothing (well, OK, you're right, there was lots of spin, hot air, empty promises, commitments [not met], targets set [and neatly avoided] etc. etc.) to alleviate climate change whilst in power. I despair.
So what's he up to now? He's morphed into a bright green eco friendly Environmental Flash Gordon and he's going to save the planet. Yes it's true, it's reported in Reuters and in The Guardian.
"The fact of the matter is that if we do not take substantial action over the next two years, then by 2020 we will thinking seriously about adaptation rather than prevention."
This from the man who achieved nothing (well, OK, you're right, there was lots of spin, hot air, empty promises, commitments [not met], targets set [and neatly avoided] etc. etc.) to alleviate climate change whilst in power. I despair.
Tax hikes behind a green smokescreen
Having read reams of analysis since the budget on Wednesday, I have to say that I was left with a feeling that we had just had a talk by the Chief Steward on the Titanic about re-arranging the deck chairs, yet again.
This article by the British Retail Consortium from TheRetailBulletin is just about the most concise and informative summary I have come across. The term 'green smokescreen' just about sums it up perfectly, don't you think?
This article by the British Retail Consortium from TheRetailBulletin is just about the most concise and informative summary I have come across. The term 'green smokescreen' just about sums it up perfectly, don't you think?
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
On Budget Day....
.... the genius that is Matt of The Telegraph yet again manages to say it all in a simple cartoon!
It will probably be irrelevant in the chancellor's overall scheme of things but I include a link to an article from back in January that highlights the parlous state of the British Beer industry.
Those of you that do enjoy a pint or two, and even, perhaps, those that don't, probably don't realise that pubs are closing at the rate of 55+ per month; and no, not the big town centre outlets associated with weekend drunk and disorderly behaviour, but the local village pubs, that are often the only local centre of the community, are the ones that are disappearing. And you certainly won't be aware that "Beer sales for pubs are now at their lowest since the Great Depression of the 1930s." and that "In the UK, beer is already the most expensive form of alcohol that money can buy."
"Unlike wine, brewing is a homegrown industry, employing 20,000 people with an annual turnover of £19 billion. Britain’s pubs employ 600,000 people. Current tax policy is encouraging the move to stronger, and often foreign produced, drinks such as wine - and from pubs to supermarkets."
As it would seem that our Gov's intention is to close down all village pubs, my guess is that the chancellor will take not a blind bit of notice.
Addendum:
Post budget: Another 4p a pint!! That will be 6p by the time it reaches the handpulls. And on top of the brewery rises last month, for most averaging 10p per pint. Our chancellor has probably just ordered the boarding up of another 1000+ village pubs!
Cheers! (Extremely sarcastically!)
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
DEFRA .....
..... seems to have been running up some quite extraordinary travel bills over the last few years, as reported in the Western Daily Press.
"The Government agency responsible for leading Britain's campaign against climate change has been slammed by a West MP for spending £2.3 million on exotic trips abroad."
So just why would DEFRA send staff to exotic locations such as the Caribbean, the Cayman Islands, Barbados, the Seychelles, Mozambique, Brazil and Ghana? Beats me.
Oh, but they've been offsetting all the carbon costs involved. "All emissions from Defra ministerial and official flights have been offset since 2005 and from road and rail travel since 2006."
Bless.
Addendum: (12/3/08)
But they ARE going to help local authorities to fight climate change according to DEFRA's own website, by providing monies to "spread existing best practice on climate change among local authorities, and provide training and mentoring to help them reduce emissions and adapt to the already unavoidable effects of climate change." (Sorry, but I'm struggling not to laugh out loud here.)
The programme will "be tailored to local needs and priorities, with delivery being co-ordinated at a regional level." Hahahahahahaha!!! Sorry, I couldn't help it.
Sounds to me like more 'jobs for the boys' and an additional waste of £4 Million!
Coming on top of the DBERR 'committed' proclamation (see post below), I have to say that if it wasn't so ridiculously sad, I'd reckon they've employed a comedy script writer.
Oh, look, eGov Monitor explains it all.
"From April, councils' success in cutting carbon dioxide emissions will be measured as part of a new performance framework. They will also be assessed on their efforts to adapt to the effects of climate change, and to tackle fuel poverty. Many councils are expected to set specific targets to lead the drive to cut back on carbon emissions in their areas."
So, it's all about setting targets, and then measuring performance against them. Yet again! What do you call it when you experience the same 'deja vu' repeatedly? Surely it ceases to become deja vu?
"The Government agency responsible for leading Britain's campaign against climate change has been slammed by a West MP for spending £2.3 million on exotic trips abroad."
So just why would DEFRA send staff to exotic locations such as the Caribbean, the Cayman Islands, Barbados, the Seychelles, Mozambique, Brazil and Ghana? Beats me.
Oh, but they've been offsetting all the carbon costs involved. "All emissions from Defra ministerial and official flights have been offset since 2005 and from road and rail travel since 2006."
Bless.
Addendum: (12/3/08)
But they ARE going to help local authorities to fight climate change according to DEFRA's own website, by providing monies to "spread existing best practice on climate change among local authorities, and provide training and mentoring to help them reduce emissions and adapt to the already unavoidable effects of climate change." (Sorry, but I'm struggling not to laugh out loud here.)
The programme will "be tailored to local needs and priorities, with delivery being co-ordinated at a regional level." Hahahahahahaha!!! Sorry, I couldn't help it.
Sounds to me like more 'jobs for the boys' and an additional waste of £4 Million!
Coming on top of the DBERR 'committed' proclamation (see post below), I have to say that if it wasn't so ridiculously sad, I'd reckon they've employed a comedy script writer.
Oh, look, eGov Monitor explains it all.
"From April, councils' success in cutting carbon dioxide emissions will be measured as part of a new performance framework. They will also be assessed on their efforts to adapt to the effects of climate change, and to tackle fuel poverty. Many councils are expected to set specific targets to lead the drive to cut back on carbon emissions in their areas."
So, it's all about setting targets, and then measuring performance against them. Yet again! What do you call it when you experience the same 'deja vu' repeatedly? Surely it ceases to become deja vu?
Monday, March 10, 2008
Even renewables may have their environmental downsides
As this article from the Washington Post highlights.
Polysilicon is a core component in any photovoltaic cell, and its manufacture is quite a toxic process, with one of the major by-products being silicon tetrachloride, an extremely noxious and poisonous chemical that is difficult to handle, and even more difficult to recycle back into the manufacturing process. The capital equipment costs simply to handle this one chemical is one of the main reasons why the production of polysilicon is so expensive in the Western world.
Now many manufacturers source their polysilicon from China. I hope, if they read this, they may think again.
See, by trying to manufacture as cheaply as possible, even something as green as a photovoltaic cell can be highly toxic to the environment.
Polysilicon is a core component in any photovoltaic cell, and its manufacture is quite a toxic process, with one of the major by-products being silicon tetrachloride, an extremely noxious and poisonous chemical that is difficult to handle, and even more difficult to recycle back into the manufacturing process. The capital equipment costs simply to handle this one chemical is one of the main reasons why the production of polysilicon is so expensive in the Western world.
Now many manufacturers source their polysilicon from China. I hope, if they read this, they may think again.
See, by trying to manufacture as cheaply as possible, even something as green as a photovoltaic cell can be highly toxic to the environment.
We are committed to tackling climate change
Oh, really? You could have fooled me.
That post heading is the response by a spokesman from the DBERR (it used to be the DTI), to an accusation that the government itself places hurdles in the way of simple, and relatively cheap, energy saving domestic solar hot water installations, as reported in the Telegraph.
A few years back, you could easily get a grant of £400 towards the installation of solar water heating, providing the chosen kit was on the approved list (tested and checked out for free) and you used an approved installer (simple capabilities assessment). The grant is still available, but nowadays you have to be equivalently as lucky as to have won the national lottery jackpot to have a chance of getting it. Contrast that with Northern Ireland, where under the control of the assembly, the grant is £1100, and is very easily available.
"we have been disappointed, indeed astonished, to find that we face a host of obstacles from government, despite the rhetoric on combating climate change and the commitment to renewable energy". That's a comment from Hugh Synge, founder of a solar water heating business. And he's quite correct, the grant system is now an utter shambles; now the installers have to pay £1800 to be registered as approved (a lot for any small business); and now to get any solar water heating model approved by the BRE costs some £6000+ (a hurdle my own business simply cannot afford to get over as yet). And we haven't even mentioned the dog's breakfast of obstacles that planning permission puts in the way of any installation, despite multiple promises that planning permission requirements will be waived for renewable energy installations.
This would be so simple to sort out, and the savings for the consumer, and the planet, would be extremely significant. But, of course, that would require some real action, not just 'commitment', and a load of sickly green bullsh*t. Let's face it, there is so much more mileage, kudos and good publicity in jumping on easy things like the banning plastic bags bandwagon, isn't there? And all this at a time when we see headlines like 'Climate change could spark war' from Metro, and 'Millions of climate change migrants will overwhelm Europe', from the Mail on Sunday.
Committed? If you ask me, the whole lot of them ought to be!
That post heading is the response by a spokesman from the DBERR (it used to be the DTI), to an accusation that the government itself places hurdles in the way of simple, and relatively cheap, energy saving domestic solar hot water installations, as reported in the Telegraph.
A few years back, you could easily get a grant of £400 towards the installation of solar water heating, providing the chosen kit was on the approved list (tested and checked out for free) and you used an approved installer (simple capabilities assessment). The grant is still available, but nowadays you have to be equivalently as lucky as to have won the national lottery jackpot to have a chance of getting it. Contrast that with Northern Ireland, where under the control of the assembly, the grant is £1100, and is very easily available.
"we have been disappointed, indeed astonished, to find that we face a host of obstacles from government, despite the rhetoric on combating climate change and the commitment to renewable energy". That's a comment from Hugh Synge, founder of a solar water heating business. And he's quite correct, the grant system is now an utter shambles; now the installers have to pay £1800 to be registered as approved (a lot for any small business); and now to get any solar water heating model approved by the BRE costs some £6000+ (a hurdle my own business simply cannot afford to get over as yet). And we haven't even mentioned the dog's breakfast of obstacles that planning permission puts in the way of any installation, despite multiple promises that planning permission requirements will be waived for renewable energy installations.
This would be so simple to sort out, and the savings for the consumer, and the planet, would be extremely significant. But, of course, that would require some real action, not just 'commitment', and a load of sickly green bullsh*t. Let's face it, there is so much more mileage, kudos and good publicity in jumping on easy things like the banning plastic bags bandwagon, isn't there? And all this at a time when we see headlines like 'Climate change could spark war' from Metro, and 'Millions of climate change migrants will overwhelm Europe', from the Mail on Sunday.
Committed? If you ask me, the whole lot of them ought to be!
Recycle or go to hell!
A sign of the times perhaps? Or a bit of oddball religious CSR? The headline is taken from the Telegraph reporting on the Vatican's modern reassessment of the seven deadly sins.
Gone are sloth, envy, gluttony, greed, lust, wrath and pride; these are said to have a "rather individualistic dimension". (Strange, I always thought they were supposed to apply to the individual?) The new list includes "genetic modification, carrying out experiments on humans, polluting the environment, causing social injustice, causing poverty, becoming obscenely wealthy and taking drugs".
You have been warned - reuse or recycle your plastic bags - if not be prepared for eternal damnation!
Gone are sloth, envy, gluttony, greed, lust, wrath and pride; these are said to have a "rather individualistic dimension". (Strange, I always thought they were supposed to apply to the individual?) The new list includes "genetic modification, carrying out experiments on humans, polluting the environment, causing social injustice, causing poverty, becoming obscenely wealthy and taking drugs".
You have been warned - reuse or recycle your plastic bags - if not be prepared for eternal damnation!
In case you can't afford to go Galactic
Branson Helps You Hire a Private Jet - Virgin Charter
Maybe one engine flies on bio-fuel?
I am road-testing a new acronym: HI-AW (Pronounced 'Hee-aw', like a donkey braying).
It means 'Having It All Ways'.
Maybe one engine flies on bio-fuel?
I am road-testing a new acronym: HI-AW (Pronounced 'Hee-aw', like a donkey braying).
It means 'Having It All Ways'.
CATEGORY - ROAD PRICING
Should have started this before now.
To kick off:
Indy Letters - It's time to adopt national road pricing
let the debate begi... hit gridlock!
To kick off:
Indy Letters - It's time to adopt national road pricing
let the debate begi... hit gridlock!
No.. really?
Travellers ignore pleas to curb air travel amid growing stampede for long-haul mini-breaks
It's worth mentioning to remind 'us' that 'we' are pretty selective about what major enviro-issues will get 'us' excited, but I had to laugh at this po-faced first sentence:
'Holidaymakers are ignoring environmentalists' calls to limit their air travel and are taking more "indulgent" long-haul mini-breaks than ever before.'
Closely followed by this:
'Despite recommendations that they holiday closer to home...'
I'd have to say a lot of folk, from 'evironmentalists' (whoever they may be) to the media (when they choose to be green for a few column inches) are a little up 'emselves if this is the best they can do.
The critiques just comes across as plain silly and petty. And that is going to persuade no one.
It's worth mentioning to remind 'us' that 'we' are pretty selective about what major enviro-issues will get 'us' excited, but I had to laugh at this po-faced first sentence:
'Holidaymakers are ignoring environmentalists' calls to limit their air travel and are taking more "indulgent" long-haul mini-breaks than ever before.'
Closely followed by this:
'Despite recommendations that they holiday closer to home...'
I'd have to say a lot of folk, from 'evironmentalists' (whoever they may be) to the media (when they choose to be green for a few column inches) are a little up 'emselves if this is the best they can do.
The critiques just comes across as plain silly and petty. And that is going to persuade no one.
Saturday, March 08, 2008
More CIF Peak Oil Argument
As ever, any article on Peak Oil in The Guardian's CIF section attracts a huge barrage of proponents from the extremes at both ends, and this is no exception.
Now I cannot understand why the concept of Peak Oil can be regarded as a 'doomsday cult' as the author implies. Likewise, in response to "And there is a grain of truth to peak oil theory. Oil is a finite reserve, so the more we extract, the closer we come to exhausting the resource."; A 'grain of truth'! It's an inescapable fact! Look, crude oil is a finite resource that human beings risk exhausting to their own detriment, as our modern industrial civilization is based almost entirely upon it!
No-one, other than a handful of real doom-mongerers, is suggesting that Peak Oil implies a sudden and disastrous disappearance of petroleum as a resource. However, it is entirely clear that over the coming decades the amount of easily available and recoverable sweet (i.e. easily usable) crude is without doubt going to decline. It may decline slowly over several decades, or it may start to decline at an accelerating rate some time in the future, but decline it inevitably will.
As for Peak Oil's proponents being "a rag-bag of geologists, green activists, Malthusians, and people who yearn for a return to some pre-industrial idyll", well, the only one of those monikers I can hold my hand up to is that I am (well, was) a trained Geologist (Geo-Chemist actually).
And comparing the cost of a barrel of oil with a barrel of Coca-Cola - well, that has to be one of the most spurious comparisons I have ever seen!
Perhaps, as one of the CIF posters suggests, we should term the problem that is now starting to confront us as Cheap Oil, rather than Peak Oil. Maybe more people will be able to understand that description.
Whatever side of the argument that you sit on, it is abundantly clear that: in conjunction with [Likely] Man Worsened Climate Change (with its associated loss of water supplies and harsher crop growing conditions); an already rapid increase in the prices of staple foodstuffs; the ever increasing population of our little lump of planetary rock; our continuing destruction of native environments in the pursuit of earning a few bucks; our rape of the oceans already highly depleted resources; Peak (OK then, Cheap) Oil, is simply one problem in a long list of issues that humanity needs to address urgently.
Now if that makes me subject to being termed a 'Malthusian' then so be it. Sorry, but to me, it seems little more than basic common sense. Remember what happened to the population of Easter Island?
Friday, March 07, 2008
Oxymoron of the month?
Eco-Bentley. Now there's a term I'll bet you never expected to see! But, according to this from ThisIsCheshire, Bentley are indeed trying to implement a "far-reaching environmental strategy to reduce CO2 emissions and improve fuel economy."
"A new powertrain will be introduced by 2012, delivering a 40% reduction in fuel consumption, while maintaining current levels of performance. And all engines across the range will become compatible with the use of renewable fuels by 2012, with the initial rollout beginning by next year."
OK, maybe I've been a little sarcastic, and perhaps I even owe them an apology; but I do find it quite hard to equate luxury, extremely expensive vehicles, that only the top 1 or 2 percent of the wealthiest amongst us can even contemplate buying, with the word Eco.
Green stretched limo anyone?
Addendum:
Bentley maybe going to do Eco-Cars, but Rolls-Royce do it up in the stratosphere with their updated Trent 'Eco-Engine'! No, I'm being unfair, I made that up, but how long before we see RR marketing claiming the updated engine actually is eco-friendly because it consumes 30% less fuel? I'll give it three months tops.
"A new powertrain will be introduced by 2012, delivering a 40% reduction in fuel consumption, while maintaining current levels of performance. And all engines across the range will become compatible with the use of renewable fuels by 2012, with the initial rollout beginning by next year."
OK, maybe I've been a little sarcastic, and perhaps I even owe them an apology; but I do find it quite hard to equate luxury, extremely expensive vehicles, that only the top 1 or 2 percent of the wealthiest amongst us can even contemplate buying, with the word Eco.
Green stretched limo anyone?
Addendum:
Bentley maybe going to do Eco-Cars, but Rolls-Royce do it up in the stratosphere with their updated Trent 'Eco-Engine'! No, I'm being unfair, I made that up, but how long before we see RR marketing claiming the updated engine actually is eco-friendly because it consumes 30% less fuel? I'll give it three months tops.
The pending food crisis.....
..... is much more of an immediate problem than climate change, according to the government's new chief scientist, Professor John Beddington, as reported in The Guardian.
"price rises in staples such as rice, maize and wheat would continue because of increased demand caused by population growth and increasing wealth in developing nations. He also said that climate change would lead to pressure on food supplies because of decreased rainfall in many areas and crop failures related to climate."
"Some of the biofuels are hopeless. The idea that you cut down rainforest to actually grow biofuels seems profoundly stupid." Quite!
"Global grain stores are currently at the lowest levels ever, just 40 days from running out."
Rapidly rising prices, all those extra mouths to feed and insufficient land and water. Things aren't looking too promising. Maybe it really is time to start tackling the issue that dare not speak its name?
"price rises in staples such as rice, maize and wheat would continue because of increased demand caused by population growth and increasing wealth in developing nations. He also said that climate change would lead to pressure on food supplies because of decreased rainfall in many areas and crop failures related to climate."
"Some of the biofuels are hopeless. The idea that you cut down rainforest to actually grow biofuels seems profoundly stupid." Quite!
"Global grain stores are currently at the lowest levels ever, just 40 days from running out."
Rapidly rising prices, all those extra mouths to feed and insufficient land and water. Things aren't looking too promising. Maybe it really is time to start tackling the issue that dare not speak its name?
NEWS/Commercial PR - Michelin Energy Saver Tyres
This is passed on as per PR supplied, so I cannot vouch for the claims, but as a major brand one has to assume they are sincere and sound (mind you, the ASA site is a weekly jaw-dropper).
I just find things like this so much more significant in the great scheme of things, not just for major e-benefits, but also possible (there is a pay-back period to consider, which has been suggested) pocket-related ones, too.
But what's the betting they don't make a low-profile set for my Volvo!
New Michelin Energy Saver tyres
The new Michelin Energy Saver is the Company’s fourth generation of “green” car tyres that replaces the existing Energy range.
The technology deployed in the Michelin Energy Saver range improves rolling resistance by nearly 20%* thereby reducing the amount of energy needed to propel the vehicle. By generating fuel savings of nearly 0.2 litres per 100 km* it reduces CO2 emissions by 4g per km and the cost of a full tank of fuel by almost €2. As a result, if you fit four Energy Saver tyres to your car the fuel savings will be enough to pay for one of the tyres after just 45,000km**.
In wet-road tests conducted by TÜV SÜD Automotive, a car equipped with the Michelin Energy Saver has a braking distance three metres shorter than the same vehicle fitted with the previous-generation tyres. The same study showed that, in identical wet-road conditions, the Michelin Energy Saver also has a shorter braking distance than the average of the major competitor tyre brands***.
In addition to enhanced fuel efficiency and exceptional safety performance the Energy Saver also offers very long tread life. According to a study by TÜV SÜD, the Michelin Energy Saver delivers on average 40% more mileage than other leading brand-name tyres in the three most widely used sizes*. Where a competitor’s tyre may reach its limit, for example, at 30,000 km, the Michelin Energy Saver – in identical conditions of use – could cover more than 40,000 km. Based on average annual driving distances in Europe, this means nearly an additional year of driving.
By combining lower fuel consumption, shorter braking distances and greater longevity the Michelin Energy Saver provides users with a host of benefits. The tyres really do enable motorists to drive further, safely, while spending less.
The Michelin Energy Saver has been designed to equip as many cars in the market as possible – including small city cars, saloons, coupes and MPVs. The tyre will initially be available in 29 sizes and that will increase to 42 by mid-2008. By the end of the year, the range will cover 90% of existing sizes with a T-speed rating, 82% with an H-rating, and 80% with a V-rating.
*ISO test conducted by TÜV SÜD Automotive in 2007 on store-bought 175/65 R14, 195/65 R15 and 205/55 R16 tyres produced by five major-brand manufacturers.
**Based on a diesel-powered vehicle that consumes around 6 litres per 100 km with fuel priced at an average of €1.20 a litre.
IDEA - Jacob's Twiglet's game
A timely reminder to me to get my act together and add more ideas to the main site.I am grateful to Junkketeer Valerie of Wyenet, our super ISP provider (happy to reccomend and link to them... see how easy this 'share the idea, share the love' can be?), who just handed this to me.
It's frankly more an 'A' for effort on the part of maker Jacob's, but I am simply encouraged that they are thinking not only in reuse terms, but also helping customers with the process by suggesting ideas.
It's true that many items, such as this, are hard to really get too inspired by, but you never know who may coem up with what that is simply awesomely neat... which is all part of the fun.
QUOTE OF THE DAY - A little bit of honest pragmatism
From Glastonbury's Michael Eavis:
'...if you switched off everything that created carbon, we'd be bored to tears.'
Enough, indeed, for me to add the label below of 'The Two E's'.
But something I wish a few who would impose their rather utopian, and indeed often selective, view on matters green would pause to consider.
The tricky part, of course, is at what point we switch from acceptably not being bored and unacceptably consuming to excess. And who sets, or thinks they should set that tipping point, and to what degree of consistency and fairness.
'...if you switched off everything that created carbon, we'd be bored to tears.'
Enough, indeed, for me to add the label below of 'The Two E's'.
But something I wish a few who would impose their rather utopian, and indeed often selective, view on matters green would pause to consider.
The tricky part, of course, is at what point we switch from acceptably not being bored and unacceptably consuming to excess. And who sets, or thinks they should set that tipping point, and to what degree of consistency and fairness.
Thursday, March 06, 2008
Why such stupidity?
That was my initial and pretty much only thought on reading this from The Telegraph yesterday. But the story sort of stayed stuck in the back of my mind, and I feel moved to comment on it.
The strange thing about the arson attack is that it appears it was carried out by ELF [Earth Liberation Front], an ultra extreme green faction that seems to regard destruction and arson as reasonable political weapons, yet the target was a set of 'environmentally friendly' new buildings.
Now I could sort of vaguely get my head around it, but still never condone it, if they were targeting things like petrol stations or oil refineries and the like; but to burn down new houses built to a quite high eco standard is just insanity! It's eco-terrorism of the worst and most stupid kind. Sorry, but groups like ELF are a major millstone to the vast majority of people with 'green' leanings and I, like many others I am sure, can never countenance wanton destruction in the name of green politics.
So, to any groups like ELF; please go away and leave the stage to people with brains, common sense and some scrap of human decency. Displays of such stupid, wanton and unnecessary destruction means you are basically unfit to call yourself human beings.
Addendum (from Junkk Male) - Worth adding this post, and the responses it got (the notion seems to be that something needs to be done, but when it comes to doing it is seldom creating positives that get first priority, in favour of primarily non-action-related negatives) , as it is related: Enough Pious Eco-Snobbery - But What Next?
The strange thing about the arson attack is that it appears it was carried out by ELF [Earth Liberation Front], an ultra extreme green faction that seems to regard destruction and arson as reasonable political weapons, yet the target was a set of 'environmentally friendly' new buildings.
Now I could sort of vaguely get my head around it, but still never condone it, if they were targeting things like petrol stations or oil refineries and the like; but to burn down new houses built to a quite high eco standard is just insanity! It's eco-terrorism of the worst and most stupid kind. Sorry, but groups like ELF are a major millstone to the vast majority of people with 'green' leanings and I, like many others I am sure, can never countenance wanton destruction in the name of green politics.
So, to any groups like ELF; please go away and leave the stage to people with brains, common sense and some scrap of human decency. Displays of such stupid, wanton and unnecessary destruction means you are basically unfit to call yourself human beings.
Addendum (from Junkk Male) - Worth adding this post, and the responses it got (the notion seems to be that something needs to be done, but when it comes to doing it is seldom creating positives that get first priority, in favour of primarily non-action-related negatives) , as it is related: Enough Pious Eco-Snobbery - But What Next?
Glimmers of sense, if not hope
Crunch time for social enterprises
A great piece, with some excellent links. Thank you.
A few years back I was invited as a guest at one of these shindigs. Usual suspects. Different minister. Same platitudes.
http://junkk.blogspot.com/2006/08/asking-for-thirds.html
I wasn't there (see below), but one thing that I do sense has not moved on is the acknowledgement of those in high office of the sheer breadth and scope that can be brought under this vast umbrella that is 'social enterprise', or even if anyone has yet managed to come up with a decent definition of what one actually is. Maybe that is the problem, there cannot be 'one'. Especially as we all, inevitably, end up competing to survive.
Because I for one find it very hard to lump together those doing invaluable work with, say, drug addicted street kids - which by any measure hardly seems a consumer group likely to lead to a self-sustaining business model any time soon - and compare it with what I'm up to. And that can have an effect. It does often rather feel that the truly vocational are also placed side by side with those who have a for-profit model when it comes to awards and funding, but with unspoken agendas at play which can lead to vast commitments of time and funds which often stand no chance of success from the off.
I had a rummage and some might find this - a purely personal view from one at the sharp (and, it seems, usually wrong) end interesti... well, another view, at least:
http://junkk.blogspot.com/2007/03/beam-me-up.html
There is a lot of good to be done, and businesses to be run, successfully, doing it, but I do fear that at the moment the thrust of support and guidance given is not from the best qualified or able, and even if with the best intentions, perhaps not with the best results. Especially in terms of value for money/ROI to those doing the investing or those in theory intended to benefit.
Addendum:
SEC - Response to BERR's enterprise strategy
A great piece, with some excellent links. Thank you.
A few years back I was invited as a guest at one of these shindigs. Usual suspects. Different minister. Same platitudes.
http://junkk.blogspot.com/2006/08/asking-for-thirds.html
I wasn't there (see below), but one thing that I do sense has not moved on is the acknowledgement of those in high office of the sheer breadth and scope that can be brought under this vast umbrella that is 'social enterprise', or even if anyone has yet managed to come up with a decent definition of what one actually is. Maybe that is the problem, there cannot be 'one'. Especially as we all, inevitably, end up competing to survive.
Because I for one find it very hard to lump together those doing invaluable work with, say, drug addicted street kids - which by any measure hardly seems a consumer group likely to lead to a self-sustaining business model any time soon - and compare it with what I'm up to. And that can have an effect. It does often rather feel that the truly vocational are also placed side by side with those who have a for-profit model when it comes to awards and funding, but with unspoken agendas at play which can lead to vast commitments of time and funds which often stand no chance of success from the off.
I had a rummage and some might find this - a purely personal view from one at the sharp (and, it seems, usually wrong) end interesti... well, another view, at least:
http://junkk.blogspot.com/2007/03/beam-me-up.html
There is a lot of good to be done, and businesses to be run, successfully, doing it, but I do fear that at the moment the thrust of support and guidance given is not from the best qualified or able, and even if with the best intentions, perhaps not with the best results. Especially in terms of value for money/ROI to those doing the investing or those in theory intended to benefit.
Addendum:
SEC - Response to BERR's enterprise strategy
Paranoia, and KNOWING there's sod all you can do
It's a bit of a rant, but with a glimmer of a sensible point inside.
I just had a gander at a major social enterprise award I entered yonks ago.
It is heading for the finals, so the publicity machine is well and truly out.
So I was checking the semi-finalists in the several categories to try and see what's 'in' and what's 'no-win' when it comes to judges and/or funders.
Now there were the usual highly local magazines and groups, which are fine, but often seem a stretch when it comes to the expandability and sustainability criteria that mostly, and sensibly (if more in theory than practice) get imposed.
But what brought me up short were two entries, which were pretty much exactly what I had put in as developments of Junkk.com in need, and worthy of support. Not brand new by any means, but with unique twists that really made them seem different. One in the area of reuse matchmaking and the other in car sharing.
Now it's all pretty academic, and of course any good idea can be matched and/or pipped by the same one.
But it did get me to wondering about the actual levels of protection and degrees of confidentiality one might need vs. get in such cases. You only go in for such things because you need help, but how often does one apply the same level of non-disclosure as one would to, say, an investor?
Tricky, as in most cases one is not talking a 'thing' that you can patent or trademark or copyright, and a good idea is only as good as you getting it to market first.
I just had a gander at a major social enterprise award I entered yonks ago.
It is heading for the finals, so the publicity machine is well and truly out.
So I was checking the semi-finalists in the several categories to try and see what's 'in' and what's 'no-win' when it comes to judges and/or funders.
Now there were the usual highly local magazines and groups, which are fine, but often seem a stretch when it comes to the expandability and sustainability criteria that mostly, and sensibly (if more in theory than practice) get imposed.
But what brought me up short were two entries, which were pretty much exactly what I had put in as developments of Junkk.com in need, and worthy of support. Not brand new by any means, but with unique twists that really made them seem different. One in the area of reuse matchmaking and the other in car sharing.
Now it's all pretty academic, and of course any good idea can be matched and/or pipped by the same one.
But it did get me to wondering about the actual levels of protection and degrees of confidentiality one might need vs. get in such cases. You only go in for such things because you need help, but how often does one apply the same level of non-disclosure as one would to, say, an investor?
Tricky, as in most cases one is not talking a 'thing' that you can patent or trademark or copyright, and a good idea is only as good as you getting it to market first.
Nuclear power!
That's the only realistic way forward according to this most surprising of sources, The Guardian.
The piece is quite well argued and I find it difficult to disagree with the author. But, I'm staggered to see that it's in The Guardian, a bastion of the anti-nuclear lobby! It's a good job that it is not on CIF, there would be the most horrendous set of ranting posts building up already!
Perhaps, in Bob Dylan's words, 'the times, they are a-changing'?
The piece is quite well argued and I find it difficult to disagree with the author. But, I'm staggered to see that it's in The Guardian, a bastion of the anti-nuclear lobby! It's a good job that it is not on CIF, there would be the most horrendous set of ranting posts building up already!
Perhaps, in Bob Dylan's words, 'the times, they are a-changing'?
Meanwhile, much more importantly...
There's a little slot at the end of the BBC morning news.
It's reserved for Yummy Mummies (and, it seems, dozy, slobby, homeworking Dads) having a wee moment having kicked the kids off to school, the spouse to real work and just finshed sorting the debris all this has left.
It's usually celeb-lite time.
But, in keeping with Auntie's new civic awareness, the PR's pushing their clients forward usually need a bit more to sweetn the deal than they act in some soap. And a cause is always a good one. I just wish all concerned were not so naked in what the real reasons for appearing are, and scoot so superficially over the theoretical actual reason for them being on.
So today we had one Tamsin Outhwaite on matters 'green'. I seem to recall her being on in this regard before*, so she has a bit of form. But for a moment it looked promising. Something about green heroes and awards, and a woman in Wandsworth who has created a site called Nappy Valley to help with reuse (Good luck. I rather think that, as with JunkkYard, FreeCycle has kind of been there and done it).
But before I could jot anything down it was on to her new TV series, a gritty drama based....
Which is, I'm betting, what the site will be on about (actually, it's on ITV, so maybe not), rather than sharing her insights on not leaving the TV on standby, not having a bath, etc.
*Addendum - found it. To be fair, the same cause. Different, though brand new, career event though.
It's reserved for Yummy Mummies (and, it seems, dozy, slobby, homeworking Dads) having a wee moment having kicked the kids off to school, the spouse to real work and just finshed sorting the debris all this has left.
It's usually celeb-lite time.
But, in keeping with Auntie's new civic awareness, the PR's pushing their clients forward usually need a bit more to sweetn the deal than they act in some soap. And a cause is always a good one. I just wish all concerned were not so naked in what the real reasons for appearing are, and scoot so superficially over the theoretical actual reason for them being on.
So today we had one Tamsin Outhwaite on matters 'green'. I seem to recall her being on in this regard before*, so she has a bit of form. But for a moment it looked promising. Something about green heroes and awards, and a woman in Wandsworth who has created a site called Nappy Valley to help with reuse (Good luck. I rather think that, as with JunkkYard, FreeCycle has kind of been there and done it).
But before I could jot anything down it was on to her new TV series, a gritty drama based....
Which is, I'm betting, what the site will be on about (actually, it's on ITV, so maybe not), rather than sharing her insights on not leaving the TV on standby, not having a bath, etc.
*Addendum - found it. To be fair, the same cause. Different, though brand new, career event though.
'Green gold' or problems untold?
Neat headline from a decent and objective analysis of biofuels from CNN International, that clearly and concisely provides a great deal of useful information without the hysterics that our British media tend to add in.
If you take natural habitat and convert it to growing crops for biofuel, it's all about carbon debt that ensues. Some are obviously unacceptable.
"The worst land to convert is tropical peatland rainforest (creating a carbon debt of 840 years) or Amazonian rainforest (320 years) with the lowest carbon debt of 17 years created by converting the wetter woodland-savannahs of Brazil's Cerrado."
Well worth a perusal.
If you take natural habitat and convert it to growing crops for biofuel, it's all about carbon debt that ensues. Some are obviously unacceptable.
"The worst land to convert is tropical peatland rainforest (creating a carbon debt of 840 years) or Amazonian rainforest (320 years) with the lowest carbon debt of 17 years created by converting the wetter woodland-savannahs of Brazil's Cerrado."
Well worth a perusal.
Wednesday, March 05, 2008
Volt face?
How to earn money from your roof
Sadly, I am finding anything originating with our government, even if it arrives having passed through multiple eminent media organs, to be immediately suspect - especially if it is transmitted as '...under proposals to be announced'.
When it's '...commitments that have now been honoured and initiated' I'll take note and cheer.
A while ago the majors and then even the local media told me that secondary schools (like ours) would be offering our kids Mandarin. Then... nothing. So I checked to see what progress there was, only to be told that they were having trouble finding enough teachers to handle French, let alone another, more complex language. In fact I was made to feel silly for not realising that such guff is put out with no intention of delivery, and is mostly copied from a press release and left unchallenged by most media with pages to fill, as all assume it just gets forgotten about anyway.
I also concern myself that if 'Householders will be able to make money by fitting solar panels or mini wind turbines to their roofs, under proposals to be announced in the Budget next week', I do trust the various pros and cons will be clearly shared to ensure the 'long-term financial security to homeowners who instal the expensive electricity generation equipment.' promises are deliverable.
No way to run a country. Or a coherent renewable energy policy. Or, too often, the odd medium.
Sadly, I am finding anything originating with our government, even if it arrives having passed through multiple eminent media organs, to be immediately suspect - especially if it is transmitted as '...under proposals to be announced'.
When it's '...commitments that have now been honoured and initiated' I'll take note and cheer.
A while ago the majors and then even the local media told me that secondary schools (like ours) would be offering our kids Mandarin. Then... nothing. So I checked to see what progress there was, only to be told that they were having trouble finding enough teachers to handle French, let alone another, more complex language. In fact I was made to feel silly for not realising that such guff is put out with no intention of delivery, and is mostly copied from a press release and left unchallenged by most media with pages to fill, as all assume it just gets forgotten about anyway.
I also concern myself that if 'Householders will be able to make money by fitting solar panels or mini wind turbines to their roofs, under proposals to be announced in the Budget next week', I do trust the various pros and cons will be clearly shared to ensure the 'long-term financial security to homeowners who instal the expensive electricity generation equipment.' promises are deliverable.
No way to run a country. Or a coherent renewable energy policy. Or, too often, the odd medium.
Return to sender
Dilemma time again.The mail has just arrived, and it was telling that the majority of it was from those, in theory, on the side of green. And unsolicited.
So a few things did stand out more.
First up, it seemed necessary to send us stuff by mail. Maybe they didn't have our emails, but this was erring on the excessive, especially as both were essentially pitching for money, either to 'the cause' by filling out and sending back a survey (FoE) or via a free magazine copy to try and get us to sign up for a sub.
Which brings me to the importance of list management. Not always easy, but both did come 'a deux', which is what rather made my eyebrow raise.
Insane?
Every now and again you find something that attempts justification which is very difficult to comprehend, occasionally you come across something where such attempted justification appears insane. This from Reuters is one such. It attempts to justify whaling because the CO2 emissions associated with whaling are less than those associated with rearing beef!
What's next? Someone suggesting cannibalism as a low CO2 emission activity? Mind you, (tongue firmly in cheek), the planet is rather overpopulated isn't it?
Whale meat again,..... don't know where,.... don't know when..........
What's next? Someone suggesting cannibalism as a low CO2 emission activity? Mind you, (tongue firmly in cheek), the planet is rather overpopulated isn't it?
Whale meat again,..... don't know where,.... don't know when..........
The friend of my enemy is no longer my friend?
The green betrayal
It needed commentary.
Sorry to be flip, but I did wonder to what extent our media report on government based on stances taken in other media.
Because I do suspect that while he may have scored a hit with a greater readership (if not votership), our Dear Leader's grasping the nettle of the massive environmental issue that is plastic bags may have not gone down quite as well elsewhere as it did in the Daily Mail.
Rightly so. And though the audience base in papers such as the Indy does not compare, their front pages do get a lot of on-air profile.
And that headline doesn't mince words.
What is worrying is what follows - Green lobby turns on Government over failure to curb air and road travel - as that smacks of something divisive, which often means divide and, well, if not rule, fail to persuade.
However, the facts are clear, and don't make impressive reading, especially for a spin-obsessed government.
Trying to balance environmental imperatives and economic drivers is not an enviable task, but may trying to appear (whilst cynically not even attempting to 'be') all things to all people, such substance-lite, spin-over-decision fudge (what I think you get trying to mix Brown and green) is proving to be nothing to anyone.
Indy - Brown bowls a no-ball - Read and weep. This is what our national followership has brought us to.
Indy - Darling has the chance to practise what he preaches - Note the last section.
Indy - Rural dwellers are the victims of betrayal - And no one said it would be easy. Most eco-initiatives, especially regarding making us pay to travel (which we are either forced by circumstance, or addicted to) will hit hardest where?
It needed commentary.
Sorry to be flip, but I did wonder to what extent our media report on government based on stances taken in other media.
Because I do suspect that while he may have scored a hit with a greater readership (if not votership), our Dear Leader's grasping the nettle of the massive environmental issue that is plastic bags may have not gone down quite as well elsewhere as it did in the Daily Mail.
Rightly so. And though the audience base in papers such as the Indy does not compare, their front pages do get a lot of on-air profile.
And that headline doesn't mince words.
What is worrying is what follows - Green lobby turns on Government over failure to curb air and road travel - as that smacks of something divisive, which often means divide and, well, if not rule, fail to persuade.
However, the facts are clear, and don't make impressive reading, especially for a spin-obsessed government.
Trying to balance environmental imperatives and economic drivers is not an enviable task, but may trying to appear (whilst cynically not even attempting to 'be') all things to all people, such substance-lite, spin-over-decision fudge (what I think you get trying to mix Brown and green) is proving to be nothing to anyone.
Indy - Brown bowls a no-ball - Read and weep. This is what our national followership has brought us to.
Indy - Darling has the chance to practise what he preaches - Note the last section.
Indy - Rural dwellers are the victims of betrayal - And no one said it would be easy. Most eco-initiatives, especially regarding making us pay to travel (which we are either forced by circumstance, or addicted to) will hit hardest where?
GREENSTRETCHING
I thought I'd float it.
It's another 'green'-prefixed descriptor that might be applied to behaviour (often of the celeb kind) when 'greenwashing' or 'greencloaking' as applied to products/services and their pr/marketing messages really doesn't apply.
I can actually see it as part of a sequence, starting with 'greenspinning' and maybe ending with 'greensnapping'?
What has inspired this?
Well, it was just watching the BBC News with HRH Prince Charles, missus and entourage on their latest visit (I am sure there is a better word for its function) to somewhere a long way away, hot and sunny.
Anyway, it seems the big news is that to make the effort more eco, and PR it in that way, they are going to tour the area in a yacht.
So... let's get this straight. In the unlikely event I win the lottery (or RE:tie inspires a big cheque next week) and fulfill my dream of a Greek Island-hopping holiday (several years either in a wet tent or visiting relatives beginning to pall), I can actually claim I've gone eco because a bit of it is swanning about on a boat with sails?
It's another 'green'-prefixed descriptor that might be applied to behaviour (often of the celeb kind) when 'greenwashing' or 'greencloaking' as applied to products/services and their pr/marketing messages really doesn't apply.
I can actually see it as part of a sequence, starting with 'greenspinning' and maybe ending with 'greensnapping'?
What has inspired this?
Well, it was just watching the BBC News with HRH Prince Charles, missus and entourage on their latest visit (I am sure there is a better word for its function) to somewhere a long way away, hot and sunny.
Anyway, it seems the big news is that to make the effort more eco, and PR it in that way, they are going to tour the area in a yacht.
So... let's get this straight. In the unlikely event I win the lottery (or RE:tie inspires a big cheque next week) and fulfill my dream of a Greek Island-hopping holiday (several years either in a wet tent or visiting relatives beginning to pall), I can actually claim I've gone eco because a bit of it is swanning about on a boat with sails?
A name only a mother (of 4) could love
EU directive to ban BOGOF promotions
This... is a dilemma.
As any who read this will know, I am not exactly pro-ban, especially when it comes to peripheral tinkering, but here's a case where market forces seem to be at odds with genuine enviROI common sense. Leaving what... as an alternative?
We have a normal (well..) family of four. And we do like our fruit and veg. So on my big weekly shop and the odd mid-weekers I am always on the hunt for a bargain. And, by any measure, BOGOF might be tempting.
Thing is, we have noticed that two nets of satsumas usually does not get consumed before the last few have gone West.
What to do...what to do?
It really seems there are no winners here. Well, save the supermarketers, who must do it because it works. But if it was possible, I'd vote for half price on smaller portions guys.
All that said, reading the thrust of the piece, the main issue seems to be the use, or not, of the word 'free'. With the only outcome being the end of an unlovely acronym.
This... is a dilemma.
As any who read this will know, I am not exactly pro-ban, especially when it comes to peripheral tinkering, but here's a case where market forces seem to be at odds with genuine enviROI common sense. Leaving what... as an alternative?
We have a normal (well..) family of four. And we do like our fruit and veg. So on my big weekly shop and the odd mid-weekers I am always on the hunt for a bargain. And, by any measure, BOGOF might be tempting.
Thing is, we have noticed that two nets of satsumas usually does not get consumed before the last few have gone West.
What to do...what to do?
It really seems there are no winners here. Well, save the supermarketers, who must do it because it works. But if it was possible, I'd vote for half price on smaller portions guys.
All that said, reading the thrust of the piece, the main issue seems to be the use, or not, of the word 'free'. With the only outcome being the end of an unlovely acronym.
Tuesday, March 04, 2008
So just what is the point?
You do your bit by carefully separating out the glass, the newspaper (no polythene mind!), and the recyclable plastics (if you are lucky enough to live in one of the few areas that collect it). You put it it the provided bins and bags and along comes the collection wagon to take it all away for a second use.
It has become something of a weekly ritual for a great many of us, and it does make you feel as if you are contributing in your own small way. But, and it is a big but, you take it on trust that your local council/authority is doing the right thing. Well, according to this from the weekend's Telegraph, something like one in eight of the items that you've carefully sorted and put out for recycling collection, actually end up in landfill anyway!
"Around 240,000 tons of paper, glass and plastic is either dumped or burned after being collected in green bins and bags by local council staff"
Just why do we bother?
It has become something of a weekly ritual for a great many of us, and it does make you feel as if you are contributing in your own small way. But, and it is a big but, you take it on trust that your local council/authority is doing the right thing. Well, according to this from the weekend's Telegraph, something like one in eight of the items that you've carefully sorted and put out for recycling collection, actually end up in landfill anyway!
"Around 240,000 tons of paper, glass and plastic is either dumped or burned after being collected in green bins and bags by local council staff"
Just why do we bother?
So is the congestion charge working?
Not according to this research from Direct Line, reported in Money Extra.
Research "reveals that 1.2 million (16%) motorists who intend buying a car over the course of the next year will purchase either a people carrier or 4X4 'Chelsea tractor'. In fact, motorists are four times more likely to buy a less fuel efficient vehicle than the more environmentally friendly hybrid or 'eco' cars this year."
"The research also reveals that despite the London congestion charge, 27% of Londoners are planning on buying a car in the next year, compared to just 20% of those living in the Midlands and 21% of Northerners."
Looks to me like the congestion charge makes absolutely zero difference to the purchasing habits of the Islingtonistas. But then again, banning plastic carrier bags is far more important for the future of the environment, isn't it?
Research "reveals that 1.2 million (16%) motorists who intend buying a car over the course of the next year will purchase either a people carrier or 4X4 'Chelsea tractor'. In fact, motorists are four times more likely to buy a less fuel efficient vehicle than the more environmentally friendly hybrid or 'eco' cars this year."
"The research also reveals that despite the London congestion charge, 27% of Londoners are planning on buying a car in the next year, compared to just 20% of those living in the Midlands and 21% of Northerners."
Looks to me like the congestion charge makes absolutely zero difference to the purchasing habits of the Islingtonistas. But then again, banning plastic carrier bags is far more important for the future of the environment, isn't it?
Monday, March 03, 2008
Lovelock - all gloom and doom
Now I have a lot of respect for James Lovelock, maverick or not; he has always made a lot of sense to me. (OK, so I'm a nutter then!). This from Saturday's Guardian contains a few gems of gloomy prediction which seem to even surpass what he's said before.
"Lovelock believes global warming is now irreversible, and that nothing can prevent large parts of the planet becoming too hot to inhabit, or sinking underwater, resulting in mass migration, famine and epidemics. Britain is going to become a lifeboat for refugees from mainland Europe, so instead of wasting our time on wind turbines we need to start planning how to survive."
And I wholeheartedly agree with him on Carbon Offsetting and plastic bag bans too!
Me? I'm finishing work before 7pm for once and I'm off to the pub whilst decent beer is still an available (albeit less and less affordable) commodity! [Work has always been the curse of the drinking class!]
Addendum:
Some interesting letters in response in Tuesday's Guardian.
Addendum 2 (from Junkk Male): Lighten up, Lovelock
"Lovelock believes global warming is now irreversible, and that nothing can prevent large parts of the planet becoming too hot to inhabit, or sinking underwater, resulting in mass migration, famine and epidemics. Britain is going to become a lifeboat for refugees from mainland Europe, so instead of wasting our time on wind turbines we need to start planning how to survive."
And I wholeheartedly agree with him on Carbon Offsetting and plastic bag bans too!
Me? I'm finishing work before 7pm for once and I'm off to the pub whilst decent beer is still an available (albeit less and less affordable) commodity! [Work has always been the curse of the drinking class!]
Addendum:
Some interesting letters in response in Tuesday's Guardian.
Addendum 2 (from Junkk Male): Lighten up, Lovelock
A Global Warming Denier's Conference
I had a sneaking suspicion that something like this might eventually happen, and it has, and is, as reported by The Raw Story.
Now I have no problem with opposing sides of any argument being put, but the acid test comes in the figures provided, and in the large majority acceptance of the underlying science. Fox and friends argue that "We just did a report looking at how the network news shows have covered climate change. ... 13 to one, the people they put on are on one side saying it's not a debate. ... On CBS it's 38 to one."
Sorry guys, but those sort of numbers simply reflect the numbers of scientists who genuinely believe in (Probably and/or Likely) Man Worsened Climate Change, versus those who don't.
And, interestingly, how would you like to take a guess at just who some of the friends of Fox News are funded by? Seems that Big Oil has some very long tendrils of influence.
Addendum:
More on this conference from Daily Kos.
Now I have no problem with opposing sides of any argument being put, but the acid test comes in the figures provided, and in the large majority acceptance of the underlying science. Fox and friends argue that "We just did a report looking at how the network news shows have covered climate change. ... 13 to one, the people they put on are on one side saying it's not a debate. ... On CBS it's 38 to one."
Sorry guys, but those sort of numbers simply reflect the numbers of scientists who genuinely believe in (Probably and/or Likely) Man Worsened Climate Change, versus those who don't.
And, interestingly, how would you like to take a guess at just who some of the friends of Fox News are funded by? Seems that Big Oil has some very long tendrils of influence.
Addendum:
More on this conference from Daily Kos.
I don't get it...
Roll up! Roll up! for London's used newspaper house
The other title I toyed with was... 'But is it art?'.
At £15,000 for 5 days, it certainly makes some kind of statement.
I'm just not sure that we need any more awareness on waste, but maybe a tad more spent on dealing with it.
The other title I toyed with was... 'But is it art?'.
At £15,000 for 5 days, it certainly makes some kind of statement.
I'm just not sure that we need any more awareness on waste, but maybe a tad more spent on dealing with it.
Doesn't Add Up
Taxpayer hit again
Re; Please tell me there was a misprint
Sadly, I'm guessing not.
And what is amazing to me is how little noticed or commented upon this has been.
It's almost as though certain folk have been compensated for buying certain other folk more time to further waste more of our money... with our money.
When I ran my ad agency there was once a notion of 'pitching fees' to prevent flippant clients getting all and sundry to contribute, but it never happened.
This was... what... two or three bidders? Bidding to make bazillions. And they take even less risk just having a go and getting rafts of PR and paid work... on our money.
The world has gone mad.
Impudently, if prudently, yours...
Re; Please tell me there was a misprint
Sadly, I'm guessing not.
And what is amazing to me is how little noticed or commented upon this has been.
It's almost as though certain folk have been compensated for buying certain other folk more time to further waste more of our money... with our money.
When I ran my ad agency there was once a notion of 'pitching fees' to prevent flippant clients getting all and sundry to contribute, but it never happened.
This was... what... two or three bidders? Bidding to make bazillions. And they take even less risk just having a go and getting rafts of PR and paid work... on our money.
The world has gone mad.
Impudently, if prudently, yours...
N.B
The Prime Minister's green credentials are not in the bag
As interesting for the comments. But still all pretty depressing.
Guardian - Tesco versus Daily Mail: which will Gordon choose? - Well, he made 'a' decision, at least.
Daily Mail - Now eco-friendly Prince Charles teams up with supermarket chain to wage war on the bags
Great. First M&S. Then Gordon. Now Charles. And, er, Booths. The Daily Mail really is rallying a crack team here. All glowing examples to follow. And boy have they inspired everyone, if the comments here are anything to go on.
As interesting for the comments. But still all pretty depressing.
Guardian - Tesco versus Daily Mail: which will Gordon choose? - Well, he made 'a' decision, at least.
Daily Mail - Now eco-friendly Prince Charles teams up with supermarket chain to wage war on the bags
Great. First M&S. Then Gordon. Now Charles. And, er, Booths. The Daily Mail really is rallying a crack team here. All glowing examples to follow. And boy have they inspired everyone, if the comments here are anything to go on.
CATEGORY - ECO-HOMES & TOWNS
Indy - Buying an eco-home: Finally something's clicked
Indy - Better than new: Give you home an eco facelift
As I have created the category already, but now need to add a complement (though creating a more eco house is very different to an entire new custom town, there are obvious similarities):
ECO-TOWNS
Guardian - Eco-towns are the greatest try-on in the history of property speculation
Indy - Protesters' fury as ecotown shortlist targets 'unsustainable' locations
Guardian - Now that's my kinda town - good point on the tokenism of the ten.
Times - Just the spot for a new Milton Keynes - I still take some persuading a town is better than no town in purely enviro terms.
Times - Government must clarify its eco town policy - As do these guys
Indy - We're ready to rise up against eco-towns - I'm guessing 'not keen'
Times - Whitehall to force through eco-towns - May the force be..?
Times - Ecotowns: for and against
Indy - What are eco-towns, and how green are they in reality? - Looking at the 'Yes' and 'No' summary above, and comparing them with the main body text, it seems more that 'where there is a 'will there's a 'may'', and even that downward spiral of confidence in the enviROI can be soon extrapolated downwards as those with boxes to tick adjust their targets.
The Register - Tories pledge to flush away eco slums - Safe to say they are not keen.
Telegraph - Time to talk about eco-towns
BBC - Eco-towns plan 'may be unlawful' - From driving to knives, and now this, it rather worries me, as a law-abiding citizen, when those who might be expected to know better about what consitutes breaking 'em use words like 'may'.
BBC - Newsnight - tip off from poster. Missed it and may not get time to catch up, but the blog might point places.
COI - Eco-towns set to face toughest ever green standards
Gaurdian - Put away your prejudices - ecohomes are not ugly - Must be today (5 Aug 08) but all the Guardian Greens are knocking spots off each other for being not green enough or too rich to care about what it costs... odd).
Telegraph - Government paid charity to produce eco-town 'fact' leaflets - Now I have pretty much put anything on a leaflet on the high-irony side of eco-awareness already, but such as this does rather expand the list of those I wouldn't trust even further.
Indy - Eco-town's green benefit exaggerated, ASA rules - The ASA weekly list is a good, if depressing source of Grenwash. I almost passed on this, but as the Indy did not...
No mention of how 'eco' it might really be, mind.
Gaurdian - Green and unpleasant - Still not feeling the love
Gaurdian - We are not nosy parkers - we simply need to measure success - '...we simply need to measure success' . I merely ask, but is that how the way studies work is phrased?
I know bonuses depend on meeting targets, and meeting targets mean pointing at 'success', but wouldn't it be better to set out to discover what the overall enviROI of these things is, good... or.... not so much?
FT - Only one eco-town site classed as suitable - Bearing in mind what has already been consumed to get to this point, is this ratio... acceptable as a measure of the ongoing competencies of those who would claim to lead in these areas?
Gaurdian - Red faces over green towns
Guardian - Eco-towns' death throes - The headline invites a Twainian response, but.... oops! I wonder how many well-meaning folk and how much money was suckered into this one?
Telegraph - Eco-towns bill soars to more than £3m before a house is built - but think of the boxes that got ticked!
Telegraph - NEW - Country diary: the folly of eco towns
Indy - Better than new: Give you home an eco facelift
As I have created the category already, but now need to add a complement (though creating a more eco house is very different to an entire new custom town, there are obvious similarities):
ECO-TOWNS
Guardian - Eco-towns are the greatest try-on in the history of property speculation
Indy - Protesters' fury as ecotown shortlist targets 'unsustainable' locations
Guardian - Now that's my kinda town - good point on the tokenism of the ten.
Times - Just the spot for a new Milton Keynes - I still take some persuading a town is better than no town in purely enviro terms.
Times - Government must clarify its eco town policy - As do these guys
Indy - We're ready to rise up against eco-towns - I'm guessing 'not keen'
Times - Whitehall to force through eco-towns - May the force be..?
Times - Ecotowns: for and against
Indy - What are eco-towns, and how green are they in reality? - Looking at the 'Yes' and 'No' summary above, and comparing them with the main body text, it seems more that 'where there is a 'will there's a 'may'', and even that downward spiral of confidence in the enviROI can be soon extrapolated downwards as those with boxes to tick adjust their targets.
The Register - Tories pledge to flush away eco slums - Safe to say they are not keen.
Telegraph - Time to talk about eco-towns
BBC - Eco-towns plan 'may be unlawful' - From driving to knives, and now this, it rather worries me, as a law-abiding citizen, when those who might be expected to know better about what consitutes breaking 'em use words like 'may'.
BBC - Newsnight - tip off from poster. Missed it and may not get time to catch up, but the blog might point places.
COI - Eco-towns set to face toughest ever green standards
Gaurdian - Put away your prejudices - ecohomes are not ugly - Must be today (5 Aug 08) but all the Guardian Greens are knocking spots off each other for being not green enough or too rich to care about what it costs... odd).
Telegraph - Government paid charity to produce eco-town 'fact' leaflets - Now I have pretty much put anything on a leaflet on the high-irony side of eco-awareness already, but such as this does rather expand the list of those I wouldn't trust even further.
Indy - Eco-town's green benefit exaggerated, ASA rules - The ASA weekly list is a good, if depressing source of Grenwash. I almost passed on this, but as the Indy did not...
No mention of how 'eco' it might really be, mind.
Gaurdian - Green and unpleasant - Still not feeling the love
Gaurdian - We are not nosy parkers - we simply need to measure success - '...we simply need to measure success' . I merely ask, but is that how the way studies work is phrased?
I know bonuses depend on meeting targets, and meeting targets mean pointing at 'success', but wouldn't it be better to set out to discover what the overall enviROI of these things is, good... or.... not so much?
FT - Only one eco-town site classed as suitable - Bearing in mind what has already been consumed to get to this point, is this ratio... acceptable as a measure of the ongoing competencies of those who would claim to lead in these areas?
Gaurdian - Red faces over green towns
Guardian - Eco-towns' death throes - The headline invites a Twainian response, but.... oops! I wonder how many well-meaning folk and how much money was suckered into this one?
Telegraph - Eco-towns bill soars to more than £3m before a house is built - but think of the boxes that got ticked!
Telegraph - NEW - Country diary: the folly of eco towns
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