My deep appreciation of bureaucracy is , to any who read this blog, well known.
Especially when in complement to grants that seem more designed to put money in the pockets of those tasked to dole 'em out than actually getting anything worthwhile to the beneficiary.
So when a chicken comes home to roost, especially on a Friday afternoon, I am soooo onside already.
However, when it kicks off 'You are required to take part in the programme evaluation ...' I feel less than inclined to jump to it. And as it didn't come registered, I feel I might just stick it where de sun don' shine until asked again. Maybe more pleasantly ('We'd appreciate your help with... as agreed when the award was made...'). But that, I doubt.
What really gets me is the majority of the form is stuff they have already had from me, scores of times. And almost none has any bearing on the key aim as suggested by the line 'it is important that we continue to highlight the positive impact [the programmes] have on local companies.'
How pointless is that?
There's no opportunity to give any qualitative analysis, so they are simply designed to get in ticked box form what they want to hear to justify their existence.
So many things these days seem to operate on this idiotic basis. Surveys that take as gospel the word of a person saying they don't smack their kid whilst recycling 110%. Job references that forget that a glowing positive might not just mean they're keen to pass on a deadweight, or a negative might mean a good candidate has fallen foul of an idiot boss. Or the 101 times that an honest reply means censure where lying through your teeth gives a clear pass.
These things are totally self-serving, and offer no value to the recipients or those who pay for all this. The only thing they do is keep make-weights in fruitless nirvana.
Friday, April 18, 2008
It's amazing what needs looking at*. By whom. And for how much.
Thing is, who pays?
It's from a post on a blog in the Guardian, and hence for now is unconfirmed:
'Natural England spent 233 Million pounds last year. 90 million was salaries. And you think that there is no monetary benefit to accepting AGW?'
Just wondering, and all the more when I notice the ROI and enviROI suggested by the (Natural England spent 233 Million pounds last year. 90 million was salaries - unconfirmed) funding numbers above, what form(s) all these efforts into looking at 'climate change' and its effects on stuff will take, to what end, and whether or not a bunch of other equally green largesse-blessed folk are not doing pretty much the same thing(s)?
Also will the impacts of a entity that spreads like wildfire, requiring new ecotowns and affordable homes and hybrids and trips to Antarctica (I'm sure you'll find an ad banner around here somewhere), be part of the bigger picture... or broken out separately as another issue?
Yes, what we punt out globally is well worth concerning ourselves with, but what we stomp on in our own back yard must not be ignored.
I am just trying to get my head around those numbers, but especially if they are duplicated, as I am sure they are, around lord knows hwo many other NGOs, quangos, etc, 'in the name of green'.
* In politics, it means 'Getting caught having done b-all, and now buying some time talking to continue doing b-all'.
It's from a post on a blog in the Guardian, and hence for now is unconfirmed:
'Natural England spent 233 Million pounds last year. 90 million was salaries. And you think that there is no monetary benefit to accepting AGW?'
Just wondering, and all the more when I notice the ROI and enviROI suggested by the (Natural England spent 233 Million pounds last year. 90 million was salaries - unconfirmed) funding numbers above, what form(s) all these efforts into looking at 'climate change' and its effects on stuff will take, to what end, and whether or not a bunch of other equally green largesse-blessed folk are not doing pretty much the same thing(s)?
Also will the impacts of a entity that spreads like wildfire, requiring new ecotowns and affordable homes and hybrids and trips to Antarctica (I'm sure you'll find an ad banner around here somewhere), be part of the bigger picture... or broken out separately as another issue?
Yes, what we punt out globally is well worth concerning ourselves with, but what we stomp on in our own back yard must not be ignored.
I am just trying to get my head around those numbers, but especially if they are duplicated, as I am sure they are, around lord knows hwo many other NGOs, quangos, etc, 'in the name of green'.
* In politics, it means 'Getting caught having done b-all, and now buying some time talking to continue doing b-all'.
Stocks and scares
And I don't mean the trendy Big City variety!
No, it seems to be time to get medieval on our a**es.
This from Dave at Solarventi:
Definitely one for you.
Bit scary though as in the ultimate sanction that Bromley uses…. “residents who don't recycle face not having their rubbish collected”. Now that’s a big stick but it just might make people recycle more readily! Wonder how they enforce it?
Somewhat tied to this was my eyebrow cranking on the subject of cost when there seem to be hordes of waste officers running about. Is this solving a problem or creating a self-funding new empire? I have a rather jaundiced view that those who are not of a cooperative bent may find others ways to deal with their waste.
It is a problem, but there seem to be a lot of well-funded sticks around and not many equally well funded solutions or benefits in complement.
No, it seems to be time to get medieval on our a**es.
This from Dave at Solarventi:
Definitely one for you.
Bit scary though as in the ultimate sanction that Bromley uses…. “residents who don't recycle face not having their rubbish collected”. Now that’s a big stick but it just might make people recycle more readily! Wonder how they enforce it?
Somewhat tied to this was my eyebrow cranking on the subject of cost when there seem to be hordes of waste officers running about. Is this solving a problem or creating a self-funding new empire? I have a rather jaundiced view that those who are not of a cooperative bent may find others ways to deal with their waste.
It is a problem, but there seem to be a lot of well-funded sticks around and not many equally well funded solutions or benefits in complement.
CATEGORY - GREEN MEDIA - E-Links
International
climateandenvironmentmedia.com - formerly, but now still including, EAST Journal
greenyour - US-based
EU
UK
National
greenfinder.co.uk - nice, simple info source, with links. Plus a free newsletter.
smartplanet - ditto
Regional
Local
Gloucestershire
glosgreenguide.co.uk - to be reviewed. Their blurb - A comprehensive Guide to green businesses and services in Gloucestershire. With over 300 entries it features a wide variety of organisations and acts as an invaluable tool for the environmentally conscious individual. The online guide also provides beneficial services to green organisations; including a webpage hosting facility and a Featured Supplier page.
It boasts an easy to use search facility, whereby businesses and services are divided into easy to navigate categories. It also provides an opportunity for users to 'Suggest a Supplier' - so if you know of a green business/service provider/environmental organisation or initiative in Gloucestershire log on today to get them included! - HINT HINT!!!!
Yeah, I know, there are scag-loads. I'm just drowning so I'll do 'em as they crop up, I get time... or you prompt me:)
Industry
businessgreen.com - NEW
greenercomputing.com
renewableenergyworld.com
Talking Retail
Wave Energy Today -
climateandenvironmentmedia.com - formerly, but now still including, EAST Journal
greenyour - US-based
EU
UK
National
greenfinder.co.uk - nice, simple info source, with links. Plus a free newsletter.
smartplanet - ditto
Regional
Local
Gloucestershire
glosgreenguide.co.uk - to be reviewed. Their blurb - A comprehensive Guide to green businesses and services in Gloucestershire. With over 300 entries it features a wide variety of organisations and acts as an invaluable tool for the environmentally conscious individual. The online guide also provides beneficial services to green organisations; including a webpage hosting facility and a Featured Supplier page.
It boasts an easy to use search facility, whereby businesses and services are divided into easy to navigate categories. It also provides an opportunity for users to 'Suggest a Supplier' - so if you know of a green business/service provider/environmental organisation or initiative in Gloucestershire log on today to get them included! - HINT HINT!!!!
Yeah, I know, there are scag-loads. I'm just drowning so I'll do 'em as they crop up, I get time... or you prompt me:)
Industry
businessgreen.com - NEW
greenercomputing.com
renewableenergyworld.com
Talking Retail
Wave Energy Today -
Fingers crossed .......
.... that genius cartoonist Matt of the Telegraph is just not too prescient!
Another very thought provoking article...
.... from Mother Jones (US based journalism website) on the approaching energy crisis, and more. Coming on the day after crude oil hit a new record of $115 a barrel, very worthwhile of a couple of minutes reading.
"Greenhouse gases, geology, and geopolitics give us no choice but to change our ways."
Shame the current US leadership team doesn't seem to have recognised this as yet, even though the cost of fuel is already hurting the American economy big style.
"Greenhouse gases, geology, and geopolitics give us no choice but to change our ways."
Shame the current US leadership team doesn't seem to have recognised this as yet, even though the cost of fuel is already hurting the American economy big style.
Language of the Beeb
Had BBC News 24 on the goggle-box briefly last night. There was a wonderful piece of horrendous English grammar on the scrolling headline news ticker.
It was reporting on Ol' Golden's visit to see Dubya, just after "Gordon Brown met with both three candidates for president."
Looks like the Beeb is moving to a street-talk style of English. Maybe Ali G am doin' strap lines for da nooz ticka?
It was reporting on Ol' Golden's visit to see Dubya, just after "Gordon Brown met with both three candidates for president."
Looks like the Beeb is moving to a street-talk style of English. Maybe Ali G am doin' strap lines for da nooz ticka?
Snap Happy
Not directly enviro, but as we are moving towards increased monitoring and fines as regards such as rubbish disposal, it does become pertinent.
I just watched a BBC piece on a photographer who was taking street scenes, and was approached by a Community Support Officer who required him to delete the images because what he was doing was 'against the law'.
There was some discussion, with, all of all people, the editor of a shutterbug magazine, but no input from more relevant possible interviewees on the much more critical issues... IMHO.
Hence I have been moved to write:
Regarding the police support officer requiring someone to act against their wishes and rights by invoking a non-existent 'law'...
What is are the consequences, especially as regards this officers' career in enforcement and the greater issue of how the public responds to official instruction?
Personally , I now feel even less inclined to listen to and/or comply with anything from some jobsworth in a hi-vis jacket, which could lead to some less than helpful confrontations, but possibly useful precedent come a court case.
Come on BBC, we need answers and advice beyond a little 'outrage' human interest flutter. This goes to the heart of how the individual works with the state.
I certainly have concerns that there is an expanding class of individual who seem to think they can wield 'the law', with little tangible comeback from those they are meant to be serving if this is abused. If someone doesn't know the law, they should not be given the opportunity to enforce it.
I just watched a BBC piece on a photographer who was taking street scenes, and was approached by a Community Support Officer who required him to delete the images because what he was doing was 'against the law'.
There was some discussion, with, all of all people, the editor of a shutterbug magazine, but no input from more relevant possible interviewees on the much more critical issues... IMHO.
Hence I have been moved to write:
Regarding the police support officer requiring someone to act against their wishes and rights by invoking a non-existent 'law'...
What is are the consequences, especially as regards this officers' career in enforcement and the greater issue of how the public responds to official instruction?
Personally , I now feel even less inclined to listen to and/or comply with anything from some jobsworth in a hi-vis jacket, which could lead to some less than helpful confrontations, but possibly useful precedent come a court case.
Come on BBC, we need answers and advice beyond a little 'outrage' human interest flutter. This goes to the heart of how the individual works with the state.
I certainly have concerns that there is an expanding class of individual who seem to think they can wield 'the law', with little tangible comeback from those they are meant to be serving if this is abused. If someone doesn't know the law, they should not be given the opportunity to enforce it.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Storing renewable energy for a cloudy day,
or even just for use that same night, has been the holy grail of the renewables industry for years. Generating power from the sun when it is shining is a doddle, storing that energy in a usable form for later has been the nightmare side of things.
Yet this, from The New York Times, suggests that the technologies for storing the energy from solar systems are moving on apace. Molten salt in an insulated tank seems to be one method that shows high promise.
"a coffee thermos and a laptop computer’s battery store about the same amount of energy"
"The thermos costs about $5 and the laptop battery $150".
So its a really big thermos flask full of molten salt. Hmmmm, I wonder if they need to add vinegar?
Yet this, from The New York Times, suggests that the technologies for storing the energy from solar systems are moving on apace. Molten salt in an insulated tank seems to be one method that shows high promise.
"a coffee thermos and a laptop computer’s battery store about the same amount of energy"
"The thermos costs about $5 and the laptop battery $150".
So its a really big thermos flask full of molten salt. Hmmmm, I wonder if they need to add vinegar?
Drop when you shop?
Watching BBC News, which is pitching a 'brilliant idea' to deal with plastics recycling: the introduction of a 10p deposit on bottles.
Now, while I am not sure this hasn't been mooted before, I look forward to the details as it seems fine in principle. Trouble is, as of 7.09am the detail is a bit shy. In fact all we do know is there is some resistance (yay!..controversy!), and 'the food and drinks industry has yet to comment'.
I'd also be interested in comment from retailers and the authorities, as to work there needs to be a bunch of new relationships and logistical routes established.
Because at the very least, when you take your bottle of HDPE 37 to the till, it will need to be identified, stored and then transported. And you will need to engage in a financial transaction (receipt...VAT... tax???).
It has been done, and seemed to work before. I recall collecting cans and bottles for pocket money (maybe getting the community on board... for money... would be a plan? Junkk.com stands ready to help).
But on past and present evidence, why do I see this as a quick, flip punt by the media on a few-day 'eco-issue', with a benign nod from the authorities as it takes the pressure off all their failings to sort things out.
Addendum - 7.41am
'Experts' Neil Hamilton (green sceptic) and the BBC's Newsnight Ethical Man and now One Show reporter Justin Rowlatt 'debate' the issue. Er... one says it's a daft idea and one says it isn't. Big surprise: an extremes twofer. I continue to await the detail on... HOW IT WILL WORK.
At least... by the end the consensus had admitted that the variety of plastics was not, as such, exactly helping the enviROI. In fact the only clear winner, and reason for it all, seemed to be the anti-litter brigade. Seems a lot of money and unclear systems being alluded in going to help reduce a target... if a worthy one.
Still nobody who knows anything tangible about the issue to be seen or heard.
Newsnight - Are supermarkets to blame?
This morning, on BBC Breakfast TV, there was a piece about a proposal to bring back the deposit system, this time with plastic bottles.
At least we now have two protagonists how might be able to shine a tad more informed light on the issue beyond 'experts' Neil Hamilton (green sceptic) and ex-Ethical Man and now One Show reporter Justin Rowlatt, who 'debated' the issue. That is... one said it's a daft idea and one said it isn't. Big surprise: an extremes twofer. I continue to await the detail on... HOW IT WILL WORK?
Now, accepting that this has been mooted before, I look forward to the details promised earlier, as it seems fine in principle. All I have so far is that there is some resistance (yay!..controversy!), and 'the food and drinks industry has yet to comment'.
So I am interested in answers from retailers and the authorities, who are even more at the coalface of this proposal (being where we consumers come in and who ends up with what we drop off) as to what there is in place... and needs to be doen in getting a bunch of new relationships and logistical routes established.
Because at the very least, when you take your bottle of HDPE 37 and 3/4 to the till, it will need to be identified, assessed, separated, stored and then transported (at what enviROI?). And will you then need to engage in a financial transaction (receipt...VAT... tax???).
It has been done, and seemed to work before. I recall collecting cans and bottles (what about metal and glass?) for pocket money (maybe getting the community on board... for money (if this stuff has value, then let's share the end-benefits:)... would be a plan? My organisation stands ready to help).
But on past and present evidence, why do I see this as a quick, flip punt by the media on a few-day 'eco-issue', with a benign nod from the authorities as it takes the pressure off all their failings to sort things out in the totality of the whole recycling chain?
PRW - UK litter campaigners want 10p deposit on plastic bottles - I am not sure saying 'it's going to make our lives difficult/expensive' is the stance I would have adopted, mind.
PRW - Bill Bryson's deposit plan fails to sway drink makers - Well, hardly unexpected, really.
117 April, 17.44 - Newsnight - just watched the piece with Justin King and the Govt. Minister. Not sure any questions posed on the blog were actually shared. Nor any answers given. Mr. Paxman gave all sides a pretty tough time, and there were a few occasions when Sainsbury's could have spun a better tale, but the key questions on what, when and how we get our stuff recycled here...woeful.
The new blog posting system is also in, and it does look like a great improvement. No more 502 Errors, but a lot of BIG issues taking over.
Now, while I am not sure this hasn't been mooted before, I look forward to the details as it seems fine in principle. Trouble is, as of 7.09am the detail is a bit shy. In fact all we do know is there is some resistance (yay!..controversy!), and 'the food and drinks industry has yet to comment'.
I'd also be interested in comment from retailers and the authorities, as to work there needs to be a bunch of new relationships and logistical routes established.
Because at the very least, when you take your bottle of HDPE 37 to the till, it will need to be identified, stored and then transported. And you will need to engage in a financial transaction (receipt...VAT... tax???).
It has been done, and seemed to work before. I recall collecting cans and bottles for pocket money (maybe getting the community on board... for money... would be a plan? Junkk.com stands ready to help).
But on past and present evidence, why do I see this as a quick, flip punt by the media on a few-day 'eco-issue', with a benign nod from the authorities as it takes the pressure off all their failings to sort things out.
Addendum - 7.41am
'Experts' Neil Hamilton (green sceptic) and the BBC's Newsnight Ethical Man and now One Show reporter Justin Rowlatt 'debate' the issue. Er... one says it's a daft idea and one says it isn't. Big surprise: an extremes twofer. I continue to await the detail on... HOW IT WILL WORK.
At least... by the end the consensus had admitted that the variety of plastics was not, as such, exactly helping the enviROI. In fact the only clear winner, and reason for it all, seemed to be the anti-litter brigade. Seems a lot of money and unclear systems being alluded in going to help reduce a target... if a worthy one.
Still nobody who knows anything tangible about the issue to be seen or heard.
Newsnight - Are supermarkets to blame?
This morning, on BBC Breakfast TV, there was a piece about a proposal to bring back the deposit system, this time with plastic bottles.
At least we now have two protagonists how might be able to shine a tad more informed light on the issue beyond 'experts' Neil Hamilton (green sceptic) and ex-Ethical Man and now One Show reporter Justin Rowlatt, who 'debated' the issue. That is... one said it's a daft idea and one said it isn't. Big surprise: an extremes twofer. I continue to await the detail on... HOW IT WILL WORK?
Now, accepting that this has been mooted before, I look forward to the details promised earlier, as it seems fine in principle. All I have so far is that there is some resistance (yay!..controversy!), and 'the food and drinks industry has yet to comment'.
So I am interested in answers from retailers and the authorities, who are even more at the coalface of this proposal (being where we consumers come in and who ends up with what we drop off) as to what there is in place... and needs to be doen in getting a bunch of new relationships and logistical routes established.
Because at the very least, when you take your bottle of HDPE 37 and 3/4 to the till, it will need to be identified, assessed, separated, stored and then transported (at what enviROI?). And will you then need to engage in a financial transaction (receipt...VAT... tax???).
It has been done, and seemed to work before. I recall collecting cans and bottles (what about metal and glass?) for pocket money (maybe getting the community on board... for money (if this stuff has value, then let's share the end-benefits:)... would be a plan? My organisation stands ready to help).
But on past and present evidence, why do I see this as a quick, flip punt by the media on a few-day 'eco-issue', with a benign nod from the authorities as it takes the pressure off all their failings to sort things out in the totality of the whole recycling chain?
PRW - UK litter campaigners want 10p deposit on plastic bottles - I am not sure saying 'it's going to make our lives difficult/expensive' is the stance I would have adopted, mind.
PRW - Bill Bryson's deposit plan fails to sway drink makers - Well, hardly unexpected, really.
117 April, 17.44 - Newsnight - just watched the piece with Justin King and the Govt. Minister. Not sure any questions posed on the blog were actually shared. Nor any answers given. Mr. Paxman gave all sides a pretty tough time, and there were a few occasions when Sainsbury's could have spun a better tale, but the key questions on what, when and how we get our stuff recycled here...woeful.
The new blog posting system is also in, and it does look like a great improvement. No more 502 Errors, but a lot of BIG issues taking over.
New $1Billion polysilicon plant in China
As reported in The Engineer, LDK solar is building a huge new polysilicon plant in Xinyu City, China. Polysilicon is the primary starting material for the production of solar photovoltaic cells. Hopefully, mass production on this sort of scale will lead to a reduction in the costs of PV arrays for power generation.
Just one little caveat. Please, please, please, don't handle the toxic waste materials such as silicon tetrachloride in the manner that other polysilicon plants in China appear to do.
Just one little caveat. Please, please, please, don't handle the toxic waste materials such as silicon tetrachloride in the manner that other polysilicon plants in China appear to do.
Places to visit before they disappear
Sounds crazy doesn't it? But the list as provided by Independent Traveller makes for interesting reading.
There is "an ethical dilemma for travelers looking to see the world without harming it."
Can't disagree with that at all.
"Can the benefits of travel outweigh its environmental impact? What questions should you consider when deciding whether to visit an endangered destination? And if you do decide to travel, how can you minimize your environmental footprint?"
Good questions ..... not too many answers provided though!
I'm sure that there are a lot more places on our little planet that they could have considered, but perhaps they should have included Bangladesh too?
There is "an ethical dilemma for travelers looking to see the world without harming it."
Can't disagree with that at all.
"Can the benefits of travel outweigh its environmental impact? What questions should you consider when deciding whether to visit an endangered destination? And if you do decide to travel, how can you minimize your environmental footprint?"
Good questions ..... not too many answers provided though!
I'm sure that there are a lot more places on our little planet that they could have considered, but perhaps they should have included Bangladesh too?
More on the Dubya emissions announcement
We mentioned the leak about Dubya's pronouncement on greenhouse gas emissions the other day. This time, a very funny view from the Daily Kos. Just love the task force team members.
As for what Dubya actually said: "I am announcing a new national goal: to stop the growth of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by 2025".
Well, its a start, I suppose.
Oh, and here's the Guardian's take on what Dubya had to say. It has already attracted the usual crowd of 'tis'/'tisn't' poles apart views.
As for what Dubya actually said: "I am announcing a new national goal: to stop the growth of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by 2025".
Well, its a start, I suppose.
Oh, and here's the Guardian's take on what Dubya had to say. It has already attracted the usual crowd of 'tis'/'tisn't' poles apart views.
CATEGORY - Advertising & Resources
A lot of 'eco' involves advertising, so I thought I'd kick off a category of some useful links in this regard.
Can't hurt, eh?
ASA Adjudications - though it is worth bearing in mind that in most cases where found against, the ad is long gone and the whole thing is more of a wrist slap.
AirportWatch - shows how over-egging can undermine
AMEC plc t/a AMEC Wind Energy - it was cleared, but I share just to show how complex the issues are.
Renault (UK) Ltd - how many 'eco-logos' are there are now?
__________
RESOURCES
brand republic - gateway to several other 'republics': creative, design , media, retail. Sends out daily updates
Creative Bulletin - TVC links, etc
Gorkana - PR & journalist exchange
Indy - NEW - 'Best in show' Featured ads
journalisted.com - Track down who wrote/writes what... well useful!
mad.co.uk-
marketingweek -
utalkmarketing.com -
utalkmarketing.com - creative showcase
thinkbox.tv - tv commercial archive
veryfunnyads - NEW - Tin. Does. Says. What.
________
NEWS
Mad - UK marketers form green alliance - Sure it will help.
I'll add 'em as I find 'em. Or get told. It's good to share.
Can't hurt, eh?
ASA Adjudications - though it is worth bearing in mind that in most cases where found against, the ad is long gone and the whole thing is more of a wrist slap.
AirportWatch - shows how over-egging can undermine
AMEC plc t/a AMEC Wind Energy - it was cleared, but I share just to show how complex the issues are.
Renault (UK) Ltd - how many 'eco-logos' are there are now?
__________
RESOURCES
brand republic - gateway to several other 'republics': creative, design , media, retail. Sends out daily updates
Creative Bulletin - TVC links, etc
Gorkana - PR & journalist exchange
Indy - NEW - 'Best in show' Featured ads
journalisted.com - Track down who wrote/writes what... well useful!
mad.co.uk-
marketingweek -
utalkmarketing.com -
utalkmarketing.com - creative showcase
thinkbox.tv - tv commercial archive
veryfunnyads - NEW - Tin. Does. Says. What.
________
NEWS
Mad - UK marketers form green alliance - Sure it will help.
I'll add 'em as I find 'em. Or get told. It's good to share.
Quote of the day - Shining knights... and high horses?
President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva of Brazil weighs into the biofuel 'debate':
"Food is expensive because the world wasn't prepared to see millions of Chinese, Indians, Africans, Brazilians and Latin Americans eat. We want to discuss this not with passion but rationality and not from the European point of view."
Whether you agree or not, it is refreshing to see a statesperson actually say something that does raise the issue of some often pretty sanctimonious finger wagging with often equally suspect motives.
"Food is expensive because the world wasn't prepared to see millions of Chinese, Indians, Africans, Brazilians and Latin Americans eat. We want to discuss this not with passion but rationality and not from the European point of view."
Whether you agree or not, it is refreshing to see a statesperson actually say something that does raise the issue of some often pretty sanctimonious finger wagging with often equally suspect motives.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Brilliant!
Matt, genius cartoonist of the Telegraph, manages to sum up two key stories in one simple brilliant cartoon, yet again!
PROF'S POSER - Soap Stars
The following query was submitted to the Junkk website:
'I work for a company that produce toiletries and guest amenities for hotels around the world! I had an enquiry from a customer today as to whether we have anything organised in regards to half-used soaps, she used to work at a hotel that gave there used soaps to charity but we are struggling to find any where that can help us and we are very interested, do you have any ideas??'
This... is a call for a Prof's Poser!
So far, from me:
'Short answer... none (A scope on the site didn't do that great:( . Medium answer... yet. Longer answer... to come, hopefully.
As an initial thought... have you guys thought of taking them back when you deliver new ones and then 'recycling' them as an 'eco' range?
I am sure there are hygiene, health and safety and consumer resistance issues (though what soap is originally made of might put some off) but let's try and think laterally. Maybe dog grooming salons: The Rex Salon Luxury Grooming Bar?
Depending on how you charge, the PR might it worth doing just as a CSR 'loss leader'.
Let's see what else folk might have to suggest.'
'I work for a company that produce toiletries and guest amenities for hotels around the world! I had an enquiry from a customer today as to whether we have anything organised in regards to half-used soaps, she used to work at a hotel that gave there used soaps to charity but we are struggling to find any where that can help us and we are very interested, do you have any ideas??'
This... is a call for a Prof's Poser!
So far, from me:
'Short answer... none (A scope on the site didn't do that great:( . Medium answer... yet. Longer answer... to come, hopefully.
As an initial thought... have you guys thought of taking them back when you deliver new ones and then 'recycling' them as an 'eco' range?
I am sure there are hygiene, health and safety and consumer resistance issues (though what soap is originally made of might put some off) but let's try and think laterally. Maybe dog grooming salons: The Rex Salon Luxury Grooming Bar?
Depending on how you charge, the PR might it worth doing just as a CSR 'loss leader'.
Let's see what else folk might have to suggest.'
Peter the Meter
Just got our water rates advice: almost £700!!
Hence I am on a mission. So this will be an ongoing post, updated at intervals as events, dear boys and girls, events... transpire.
First action was to call the customer support line for Welsh Water.
Couldn't have been simpler. I asked for a water meter. The nice girl ignored that completely and took me through an 'assessment'. Number of people, washing machine, outdoor tap... no swimming pool, etc. No mention that slug 'n slug (the twins) currently bathe only with the full moon. And we operate a 'let it mellow' policy with the loos when Mum is out of sniffing range.
The result? Well, it seems my bill could be halved. Halved!!!? Why on earth was this option not mentioned a decade ago? That would be a saving, already, of a few thousand pounds!!!!!
So... when do I get the meter? Don't know. What I am getting... is 'a pack'.
The story unfolds...
14/April/08
... and not with the best of starts:
Times - Consumers shoulder cost of leaky pipes - This does not make encouraging reading, especially as (and I forgot to mention that, as a consequence of getting the pack and making a call), the surveyor turns up on Wednesday to assess the house for conversion! Next...
Times - MPs want water meters in every UK house to conserve water - Older piece, but I just chanced upon it.
16/April/o8
I have taken the risk. The engineer/surveyor turned up and it took, oh, about 30-40 seconds.
We located the outdoor stopcock and swapped a screw cap on a plastic junction box (which I suspect must have been quite new and hence ready and waiting... some may not be so receptive) with a single unit.
The meter then looks up at you. All the usual numbers. Plus a little gizmo in the middle that spins if there is a drip. Hence we ascertained there were no leaks. I guess we are lucky that the distance to the house interior was but a metre, and we are then responsible for all that happens inside. So if there was a leak, we'd know about it.
Now... let's see about the next bill. Gulp....
Hence I am on a mission. So this will be an ongoing post, updated at intervals as events, dear boys and girls, events... transpire.
First action was to call the customer support line for Welsh Water.
Couldn't have been simpler. I asked for a water meter. The nice girl ignored that completely and took me through an 'assessment'. Number of people, washing machine, outdoor tap... no swimming pool, etc. No mention that slug 'n slug (the twins) currently bathe only with the full moon. And we operate a 'let it mellow' policy with the loos when Mum is out of sniffing range.
The result? Well, it seems my bill could be halved. Halved!!!? Why on earth was this option not mentioned a decade ago? That would be a saving, already, of a few thousand pounds!!!!!
So... when do I get the meter? Don't know. What I am getting... is 'a pack'.
The story unfolds...
14/April/08
... and not with the best of starts:
Times - Consumers shoulder cost of leaky pipes - This does not make encouraging reading, especially as (and I forgot to mention that, as a consequence of getting the pack and making a call), the surveyor turns up on Wednesday to assess the house for conversion! Next...
Times - MPs want water meters in every UK house to conserve water - Older piece, but I just chanced upon it.
16/April/o8
I have taken the risk. The engineer/surveyor turned up and it took, oh, about 30-40 seconds.
We located the outdoor stopcock and swapped a screw cap on a plastic junction box (which I suspect must have been quite new and hence ready and waiting... some may not be so receptive) with a single unit.
The meter then looks up at you. All the usual numbers. Plus a little gizmo in the middle that spins if there is a drip. Hence we ascertained there were no leaks. I guess we are lucky that the distance to the house interior was but a metre, and we are then responsible for all that happens inside. So if there was a leak, we'd know about it.
Now... let's see about the next bill. Gulp....
A metaphor for the age
No, not Terminal 5.
I refer to the BBC forums comment system. As the licence fee has gone up, so every aspect of our national broadcaster has plummeted. I'd like my money back, but that's not an option.
It started with a comment by invitation:
Going Carla crazy
It's too much to hope that the current (0) comments is anything more than yet another glitch in the moderating system, or maybe my fellow commentors have so far managed to resist (at 1820 GMT) where I cannot. If so... bravo!
And good on the Gallic diplomat!
You and your lot really have lost the plot.
If 'In the Newsnight office Carla Bruni has.. been the most talked about subject of the week', then I weep for serious news journalism ever taking place again. Are you all just in demob mode for the Olympic jolly or what? Will it just be the trainees and temps running the show, getting their story ideas from Heat magazine?
ps: I don't think it is just the Daily Mail who have had trouble deciding whether it is plastic bags or this lady who are of most importance to the future of news, the governance of the world or the future of the planet.
Of course, I was too prescient from the outset. After a few days of retrying, I might have to give up. But have tried another tack:
Friday 28 March, 2008
Excuse being off topic, but as this little bit still works (for now) I am just experimenting with this posting system, which was either a) created by the T5 designers on an off day or b) has given up any pretence of being an open, free and objective forum and is now in the hands of highly selective moderation. Or maybe the BBC is just trying to grind us into submission to accept yet another fee hike?
Free the 502 commenters from their limbo hell!
Shambles is too good a word for the whole sorry bunch. Like they care. What's the worst that can happen to them? Probably all en route to Beijing already.
Addendum 1:
I have been moved to send the above to Newswatch, for all the good that will do. Though Ray Snoddy may find one grumpy editor to say 'who cares?' on Sunday at dawn.
Why does the BBC bother with forums for audience comments?
I just ask, as after yet another frustrating few days trying to deal with the woeful system that we have all paid for, I have had to resort to a few other blogs that actually seem to work, including my own: [as above]
Addendum 2:
At time of writing (Sunday 7.20pm) nothing has changed. And no reply has yet been received, at least here... even to my complaint. Other than being mightily miffed personally, I am now even more concerned that any pretence at free and objective news and debate is now dead. Other than my little isolated outpost being outraged, the silence is pretty effective. Don't like the opinion? Ignore it! And ignore any follow up. What you don't see won't hurt you. But if you have an agenda you can let a few selected 'acceptable' thoughts slip through. It really is extraordinary. Where, if I could be bothered, do I go next? A registered letter to the BBC Trust? Sadly the compromise of that final word has rendered the ultimate avenue nonsense a long time ago. Even if this was a genuine glitch, just like the T5 debacle there has been no attempt to concede there even is a problem and PR an explanation at least.
Daily Mail - Fury of BBC over Cameron's £250m bid to end its public service monopoly -
"Once you take away part of the licence fee you break the trust between the BBC and the licence-fee payer," said a senior BBC executive. "The viewer won't know who on earth their money is going to and will say, 'why on earth should I pay this any more?'
Oh... will I?
Addendum - An answer.. of sorts. Unlike some, as I get 'em, they go up:
Thank you for your email. I can confirm that the problems you are
experiencing are due to technical difficulties that we are aware of and
working on. We intend to revamp the blog system in the next couple of
weeks which will end these problems. Until then I can only apologise for
the inconvenience caused and thank you for your patience.
Had to reply as yet again I have been thwarted:
Dear Team Assistant,
Thank you for your reply.
I am aware that there are technical difficulties. And would be amazed if the BBC had not been aware of them since they cropped up (which was when? It seems like months... or more).
I do note, with optimism, the confidence that these will be fixed, though am cautious on the vague timeline.
Having just tried, unsuccessfully , AGAIN, I am intrigued as to what has been causing these errors, and in so selective a manner. Evidently some are blessed with access and some are not.
Is it because I is Mac?
I am unsure if they will get the Ali G allusion.
BBBC - NEW - 'If you get error 502 you are probably blocked (as I am) from posting. They block your IP address. the BBC do this all the time.'
'Is this verified/able?
I currently get a 502 on every post (to Newsnight, Editor's Blogs, etc. Even, ironically, to the exchanges about them 'fixing' a system they 'admit' is 'broken'). That said, some get through, though most get 'lost'. Therefore a blanket 'ban' is hard to credit. Even a 'moderating' (sorry for all the quotes, but there is a lot that raises 'questions') stance is tricky to grasp as often many I offer up are not that complimentary of the guys who have kicked off the post either.
In fact I am exchanging pleasantries with a junior munchkin in some fob-off department as we speak. Not sure she liked my 'Is it 'cos I is Mac' comment, bless her. It's not... er.. supposed to be, by the way.
But if I get the merest whiff that such selectivity to agenda is taking place with an entity I co-fund, and especially when I have devoted good time at their request to contribute, I will be... grumpy.
And, like the Incredible Sulk, they won't like me when I'm grumpy.'
I refer to the BBC forums comment system. As the licence fee has gone up, so every aspect of our national broadcaster has plummeted. I'd like my money back, but that's not an option.
It started with a comment by invitation:
Going Carla crazy
It's too much to hope that the current (0) comments is anything more than yet another glitch in the moderating system, or maybe my fellow commentors have so far managed to resist (at 1820 GMT) where I cannot. If so... bravo!
And good on the Gallic diplomat!
You and your lot really have lost the plot.
If 'In the Newsnight office Carla Bruni has.. been the most talked about subject of the week', then I weep for serious news journalism ever taking place again. Are you all just in demob mode for the Olympic jolly or what? Will it just be the trainees and temps running the show, getting their story ideas from Heat magazine?
ps: I don't think it is just the Daily Mail who have had trouble deciding whether it is plastic bags or this lady who are of most importance to the future of news, the governance of the world or the future of the planet.
Of course, I was too prescient from the outset. After a few days of retrying, I might have to give up. But have tried another tack:
Friday 28 March, 2008
Excuse being off topic, but as this little bit still works (for now) I am just experimenting with this posting system, which was either a) created by the T5 designers on an off day or b) has given up any pretence of being an open, free and objective forum and is now in the hands of highly selective moderation. Or maybe the BBC is just trying to grind us into submission to accept yet another fee hike?
Free the 502 commenters from their limbo hell!
Shambles is too good a word for the whole sorry bunch. Like they care. What's the worst that can happen to them? Probably all en route to Beijing already.
Addendum 1:
I have been moved to send the above to Newswatch, for all the good that will do. Though Ray Snoddy may find one grumpy editor to say 'who cares?' on Sunday at dawn.
Why does the BBC bother with forums for audience comments?
I just ask, as after yet another frustrating few days trying to deal with the woeful system that we have all paid for, I have had to resort to a few other blogs that actually seem to work, including my own: [as above]
Addendum 2:
At time of writing (Sunday 7.20pm) nothing has changed. And no reply has yet been received, at least here... even to my complaint. Other than being mightily miffed personally, I am now even more concerned that any pretence at free and objective news and debate is now dead. Other than my little isolated outpost being outraged, the silence is pretty effective. Don't like the opinion? Ignore it! And ignore any follow up. What you don't see won't hurt you. But if you have an agenda you can let a few selected 'acceptable' thoughts slip through. It really is extraordinary. Where, if I could be bothered, do I go next? A registered letter to the BBC Trust? Sadly the compromise of that final word has rendered the ultimate avenue nonsense a long time ago. Even if this was a genuine glitch, just like the T5 debacle there has been no attempt to concede there even is a problem and PR an explanation at least.
Daily Mail - Fury of BBC over Cameron's £250m bid to end its public service monopoly -
"Once you take away part of the licence fee you break the trust between the BBC and the licence-fee payer," said a senior BBC executive. "The viewer won't know who on earth their money is going to and will say, 'why on earth should I pay this any more?'
Oh... will I?
Addendum - An answer.. of sorts. Unlike some, as I get 'em, they go up:
Thank you for your email. I can confirm that the problems you are
experiencing are due to technical difficulties that we are aware of and
working on. We intend to revamp the blog system in the next couple of
weeks which will end these problems. Until then I can only apologise for
the inconvenience caused and thank you for your patience.
Had to reply as yet again I have been thwarted:
Dear Team Assistant,
Thank you for your reply.
I am aware that there are technical difficulties. And would be amazed if the BBC had not been aware of them since they cropped up (which was when? It seems like months... or more).
I do note, with optimism, the confidence that these will be fixed, though am cautious on the vague timeline.
Having just tried, unsuccessfully , AGAIN, I am intrigued as to what has been causing these errors, and in so selective a manner. Evidently some are blessed with access and some are not.
Is it because I is Mac?
I am unsure if they will get the Ali G allusion.
BBBC - NEW - 'If you get error 502 you are probably blocked (as I am) from posting. They block your IP address. the BBC do this all the time.'
'Is this verified/able?
I currently get a 502 on every post (to Newsnight, Editor's Blogs, etc. Even, ironically, to the exchanges about them 'fixing' a system they 'admit' is 'broken'). That said, some get through, though most get 'lost'. Therefore a blanket 'ban' is hard to credit. Even a 'moderating' (sorry for all the quotes, but there is a lot that raises 'questions') stance is tricky to grasp as often many I offer up are not that complimentary of the guys who have kicked off the post either.
In fact I am exchanging pleasantries with a junior munchkin in some fob-off department as we speak. Not sure she liked my 'Is it 'cos I is Mac' comment, bless her. It's not... er.. supposed to be, by the way.
But if I get the merest whiff that such selectivity to agenda is taking place with an entity I co-fund, and especially when I have devoted good time at their request to contribute, I will be... grumpy.
And, like the Incredible Sulk, they won't like me when I'm grumpy.'
More cause for concern
Bisphenol A is a chemical substance used widely around this planet in food and drink packaging, as it is a common component in many widely used plastics, including those used for bottled water. It a a basic monomer used in polycarbonates, and is also utilised in polyesters and polyether ketones. At one time it was actually used as an anti-oxidant in foodstuffs, so those of us a little longer in the tooth have probably eaten it for years, because it had always been regarded as having a low acute toxicity. It is still used in the products used to line the insides of canned foods so there is still a potential direct food contamination possible from this source.
So why the concern? Again from RedOrbit, it appears that Bisphenol A mimics oestrogen, the primary female sex hormone. A quick web search finds that some research also suggests Bisphenol A is potentially carcinogenic and may be linked to breast cancer, could be a cause of lower sperm counts, and it has even been linked to Schizophrenia.
Yes, there are a lot of 'may' and 'could' words in there, but whilst the Canadian Gov appears to be doing something about it, as in a major revue of the chemical and its possible effects on humans, I'll bet our Gov does nothing for years!
Addendum:
More on this story and the effects the information has had on the plastic bottled water industry from the Financial Post.
So why the concern? Again from RedOrbit, it appears that Bisphenol A mimics oestrogen, the primary female sex hormone. A quick web search finds that some research also suggests Bisphenol A is potentially carcinogenic and may be linked to breast cancer, could be a cause of lower sperm counts, and it has even been linked to Schizophrenia.
Yes, there are a lot of 'may' and 'could' words in there, but whilst the Canadian Gov appears to be doing something about it, as in a major revue of the chemical and its possible effects on humans, I'll bet our Gov does nothing for years!
Addendum:
More on this story and the effects the information has had on the plastic bottled water industry from the Financial Post.
Just maybe, perhaps, .....
More on sea levels ......
..... from RedOrbit, and quite worrying it is too.
"According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the average rise in global sea levels will be 28 to 43 centimeters (1 – 1.4 feet) by 2100. However, according to a new scientific analysis this predicted number is substantially low, and sea levels could actually rise by nearly one and a half meters (almost 5 feet) in that same time frame."
Yes, I know it contains that nasty little word 'could', but bearing in mind that a one metre rise (let alone 1.5 metres) would put millions at risk, that's quite a cause for concern, especially to countries like Bangladesh.
"Eighty to 90% of Bangladesh is within a meter or so of sea level, so if you live in the Ganges delta you're in a lot of trouble; and that's an awful lot of people."
"According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the average rise in global sea levels will be 28 to 43 centimeters (1 – 1.4 feet) by 2100. However, according to a new scientific analysis this predicted number is substantially low, and sea levels could actually rise by nearly one and a half meters (almost 5 feet) in that same time frame."
Yes, I know it contains that nasty little word 'could', but bearing in mind that a one metre rise (let alone 1.5 metres) would put millions at risk, that's quite a cause for concern, especially to countries like Bangladesh.
"Eighty to 90% of Bangladesh is within a meter or so of sea level, so if you live in the Ganges delta you're in a lot of trouble; and that's an awful lot of people."
Oooooops!!
This from The Times highlights an issue that is going to really stress producers, refiners and the retail outlets of all within the fuel industry. Just how can you guarantee that the Gov's requisite content of biofuel (2.5% as of tomorrow) comes from sustainable sources?
"An investigation by Greenpeace found that 30 per cent of the biofuel in Tesco diesel came from palm oil. A litre of Tesco diesel typically contains 5 per cent biofuel."
Oh, its not Tesco's fault though ..... "Tesco said that the concentration of palm oil in its biodiesel was the responsibility of Greenergy, its supplier."
"A spokeswoman for Greenergy also initially denied using palm oil but later said: 'It’s a very, very small proportion of our feedstock mix.'"
Interesting to note that Tesco actually owns 25% of Greenenergy though. Isn't it amazing just how incestuous big business is nowadays?
"An investigation by Greenpeace found that 30 per cent of the biofuel in Tesco diesel came from palm oil. A litre of Tesco diesel typically contains 5 per cent biofuel."
Oh, its not Tesco's fault though ..... "Tesco said that the concentration of palm oil in its biodiesel was the responsibility of Greenergy, its supplier."
"A spokeswoman for Greenergy also initially denied using palm oil but later said: 'It’s a very, very small proportion of our feedstock mix.'"
Interesting to note that Tesco actually owns 25% of Greenenergy though. Isn't it amazing just how incestuous big business is nowadays?
The heat is on..........
Ok, it's a poor title, but I couldn't resist it. The song was on radio 2 yesterday, and has been running around in my head ever since.
The 'Heat Project' from Enact Energy is the first that I have found that clearly and concisely sets out exactly what is (and isn't) available to householders in terms of insulation grants that are now managed under the Gov's CERT scheme. (You know, the scheme where they make the energy utility companies pay for it!)
Interesting to note that the actual grants were available pre-CERT, under the Home Energy Conservation Act, as far back as 1996! Can't recollect seeing too much publicity about them back then. Perhaps that was because the grants were handled by our local authorities?
The 'Heat Project' from Enact Energy is the first that I have found that clearly and concisely sets out exactly what is (and isn't) available to householders in terms of insulation grants that are now managed under the Gov's CERT scheme. (You know, the scheme where they make the energy utility companies pay for it!)
Interesting to note that the actual grants were available pre-CERT, under the Home Energy Conservation Act, as far back as 1996! Can't recollect seeing too much publicity about them back then. Perhaps that was because the grants were handled by our local authorities?
Friggin' with the riggin'
Or... when bad polls go bad.
Thing is, I'm pretty sure we all do it, or would if we could. I have.
That is, tried to manipulate a poll result. Heck, I just did it recently with our last newsletter when I asked the Junkk.com readership to bung us a big up in the Observer Ethical Awards. But somehow I doubt our current readership, no matter how high quality, would quite compare to some others doubtless (well, I know they were, 'cos I only found out about the thing by one I'm signed up to asking me to vote for them) doing the same thing.
I was reminded of this last night, when I got an appeal from the owner of a big, respected music blog to help tip the balance in favour of his daughter in some music competition or other so she could win a car. The appeal of her music, or abilities, seemed vaguely irrelevant.
And if one wins such things, for sure you go on to milk it big time in PR. Whether it's Strictly Come Dancing or the BBC's 'Have Your Say' ('See... x% of those moderated in agreed...').
I'd say that a panel of judges is a much better bet for real expert assessment and objectivity, but these days what counts as an expert is often rather 'creative' at best. And even with 'pros' some agendas can often be held up to scrutiny.
I guess the best thing is to treat it just as a big game. But sadly, few do. Too much, including fame and fortune, hinges on these things. And with the inevitable influences of the vast , manipulable audiences on the internet available at the stroke of a key, it looks set to spiral ever higher. In entertainment value for sure, but as to real value... probably not so much.
Another MOTA (Metaphor Of The Age)?
Thing is, I'm pretty sure we all do it, or would if we could. I have.
That is, tried to manipulate a poll result. Heck, I just did it recently with our last newsletter when I asked the Junkk.com readership to bung us a big up in the Observer Ethical Awards. But somehow I doubt our current readership, no matter how high quality, would quite compare to some others doubtless (well, I know they were, 'cos I only found out about the thing by one I'm signed up to asking me to vote for them) doing the same thing.
I was reminded of this last night, when I got an appeal from the owner of a big, respected music blog to help tip the balance in favour of his daughter in some music competition or other so she could win a car. The appeal of her music, or abilities, seemed vaguely irrelevant.
And if one wins such things, for sure you go on to milk it big time in PR. Whether it's Strictly Come Dancing or the BBC's 'Have Your Say' ('See... x% of those moderated in agreed...').
I'd say that a panel of judges is a much better bet for real expert assessment and objectivity, but these days what counts as an expert is often rather 'creative' at best. And even with 'pros' some agendas can often be held up to scrutiny.
I guess the best thing is to treat it just as a big game. But sadly, few do. Too much, including fame and fortune, hinges on these things. And with the inevitable influences of the vast , manipulable audiences on the internet available at the stroke of a key, it looks set to spiral ever higher. In entertainment value for sure, but as to real value... probably not so much.
Another MOTA (Metaphor Of The Age)?
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Quote of the day - The real issue is jobs, boys... Fore!
I hope he won't mind. From a poster called Bob on an eco-forum I frequent, when sharing a link:
Speech made by John Hutton, Unite Conference, BAFTA, London, 26 March 2008
'Shows how the government is selling new nuclear power - not as a necessary addition to our energy supply, but as a b***dy great gravy train for the engineering industry and selected parts of academia. If they are not subsidising the industry, where is all the money for new Chairs, National Skills Academy coming from? '
It's also inspired a new label/acronym/category: JOBS4BOYS
Speech made by John Hutton, Unite Conference, BAFTA, London, 26 March 2008
'Shows how the government is selling new nuclear power - not as a necessary addition to our energy supply, but as a b***dy great gravy train for the engineering industry and selected parts of academia. If they are not subsidising the industry, where is all the money for new Chairs, National Skills Academy coming from? '
It's also inspired a new label/acronym/category: JOBS4BOYS
Bye bye bio?
Gosh, it's a stirring pot. And the question is, does the totality of the biofuel industry deserve to get tarred by what's looking like a very broad brush?
The responses to such pieces can often be insightful as the story itself...
Newsnight - Unsustainable world? -
Newsnight - Biofuel -
Newsnight - Unsustainable world? -
I noted one biofuel advocate in understandable Mandy Rice Davis mode as saying 'We can't do nothing about climate change' which, some have stated (including Mr. Paxman) without qualification as being 'man-made'. I have some problem with this definition purely as being an easy source of distraction to climate optimists. I prefer instead 'Probably man-worsened negative CC', and accepting that the prudent course in case it's true is to accept some evils as lesser, and cut back more and waste less.
But we need to be confident that what gets done is being done correctly and for the right reasons. Which brings us to competency and trust. From government to the agenda and abilities of some so-called objective media, both seem in short supply.
This was a thought-provoking piece, but unfortunately I, as a member of the consuming, but caring public, remain none the wiser.
It appears that our government, at the behest of the EU, has foisted something on us 'in the name of green' that, on current levels of information and 'expert' contribution, has at the very least a poor enviROI, and hence is serving our kids' futures very poorly.
Just a short time ago I admit to lusting after a SAAB biodiesel as a mitigating 'solution' to my family's needs/desires to travel, and the impact this has on the overall carbon impact we impose. Now it looks more likely to get keyed by an activist as a Hummer.
Currently the only winners still look like being a ratings hungry media. I note the piece that followed the biofuel one. I am no fan of Mr. Brown and his cabal of all the talents in representing this country's lead...er...followship, but it's an unenviable task to try and square economic growth and environmental impacts. Especially with a global population of 6B and growing.
Indy - Biofuel: the burning question - a critical extra point to note when it comes to consumer influence: the lack of clear provenance to help in making a purchase decision.
Gaurdian - Blow to introduction of greener fuel as oil firms face production delay - When they say 'greener' fuel...
BBBC - NEW - A worthy eyebrow-crank at the 'reporting' of the BBC, with a good link to the perils of allowing our lives to be guided by lobbyists and those under their spell (.. on ex's in a nice company condo in Marbella).
The responses to such pieces can often be insightful as the story itself...
Newsnight - Unsustainable world? -
Newsnight - Biofuel -
Newsnight - Unsustainable world? -
I noted one biofuel advocate in understandable Mandy Rice Davis mode as saying 'We can't do nothing about climate change' which, some have stated (including Mr. Paxman) without qualification as being 'man-made'. I have some problem with this definition purely as being an easy source of distraction to climate optimists. I prefer instead 'Probably man-worsened negative CC', and accepting that the prudent course in case it's true is to accept some evils as lesser, and cut back more and waste less.
But we need to be confident that what gets done is being done correctly and for the right reasons. Which brings us to competency and trust. From government to the agenda and abilities of some so-called objective media, both seem in short supply.
This was a thought-provoking piece, but unfortunately I, as a member of the consuming, but caring public, remain none the wiser.
It appears that our government, at the behest of the EU, has foisted something on us 'in the name of green' that, on current levels of information and 'expert' contribution, has at the very least a poor enviROI, and hence is serving our kids' futures very poorly.
Just a short time ago I admit to lusting after a SAAB biodiesel as a mitigating 'solution' to my family's needs/desires to travel, and the impact this has on the overall carbon impact we impose. Now it looks more likely to get keyed by an activist as a Hummer.
Currently the only winners still look like being a ratings hungry media. I note the piece that followed the biofuel one. I am no fan of Mr. Brown and his cabal of all the talents in representing this country's lead...er...followship, but it's an unenviable task to try and square economic growth and environmental impacts. Especially with a global population of 6B and growing.
Indy - Biofuel: the burning question - a critical extra point to note when it comes to consumer influence: the lack of clear provenance to help in making a purchase decision.
Gaurdian - Blow to introduction of greener fuel as oil firms face production delay - When they say 'greener' fuel...
BBBC - NEW - A worthy eyebrow-crank at the 'reporting' of the BBC, with a good link to the perils of allowing our lives to be guided by lobbyists and those under their spell (.. on ex's in a nice company condo in Marbella).
You say tomato
What's in a name?
I've always wondered what the distiction between 'Pollution' and 'Emissions' was.
The former has obvious connotations of nasty stuff that shouldn't be there, but thne so does the latter in one form, whilst in another is just the consequecne of 'stuff' taking place.
But in the great AGW/PMWNCC scehme of things you rarely hear of pollution, as the big issue is CO2... emissions. So it was interesting to see this headline mixing the two in a form if have rarley seen before:
China 'now top carbon polluter'
It also riases a few legintimate qustions about how such massive influnces on the possible negative impacts to the planet's ecosphere get encouraged to join in the mitigation drives.
I've always wondered what the distiction between 'Pollution' and 'Emissions' was.
The former has obvious connotations of nasty stuff that shouldn't be there, but thne so does the latter in one form, whilst in another is just the consequecne of 'stuff' taking place.
But in the great AGW/PMWNCC scehme of things you rarely hear of pollution, as the big issue is CO2... emissions. So it was interesting to see this headline mixing the two in a form if have rarley seen before:
China 'now top carbon polluter'
It also riases a few legintimate qustions about how such massive influnces on the possible negative impacts to the planet's ecosphere get encouraged to join in the mitigation drives.
Monday, April 14, 2008
CATEGORY - Social Enterprise
Another day, another category. This one seems ripe for my new evolving sub-sections archive plan:
ARTICLES
Times - Make a profit by doing good - Fair start, though I'd say the definitions of what SE is are still erring more on the charity/NGO end of the curve
GRANTS
INFORMATION
'SUPPLIERS'
From the Times piece. Many links don't work, so Google for now.
acf.org.uk
businesslink.gov.uk
cdfa.org.uk
j4bcommunity.co.uk
socialenterprise.org.uk
triodos.co.uk
unltd.org.uk
Check the labels below for other links
ARTICLES
Times - Make a profit by doing good - Fair start, though I'd say the definitions of what SE is are still erring more on the charity/NGO end of the curve
GRANTS
INFORMATION
'SUPPLIERS'
From the Times piece. Many links don't work, so Google for now.
acf.org.uk
businesslink.gov.uk
cdfa.org.uk
j4bcommunity.co.uk
socialenterprise.org.uk
triodos.co.uk
unltd.org.uk
Check the labels below for other links
Just fill out these forms, Mr. Edison...
Exhibition of Inventions: Where crackpot meets genius
It seems so long ago...
I wonder which I was (still am?) last year when I won a Gold Medal (with Jury Congrats)* at the same event.
Even when your 'ideas' are quite down to earth, practical and may even stand a chance of making money as well as 'things better', you do tend to face a steep slope.
But James Dyson is right, the system doesn't make it easy once you start on the journey up, as Jeremy Clarkson also agrees on another page of this edition. Even before you really start, at events such as this.
Because I also recall funding every aspect of my trip by virtue of being English. Meanwhile over the way the lovely, helpful (to me, too.. ta, boyos) chaps on the Welsh Development Agency stand were basking in all the benefits of well-coordinated (and funded) efforts to support and sell both innovation and the consequently valuable IP.
* Check the green RE:tie to see with what.
Times - Time to save the world again, lads
I got my Engineering degree a few years after Brunel, and on the strict understanding that I didn't use it to make anything. I figured this didn't apply to inventing some stuff, which was lucky, as it is how I came to win a Gold Medal at The Geneva Inventions Show mentioned in the complementary InGear Gizmo article to this. It was nice, but hasn't made life too much easier.
I wish I was young enough** to be eligible to catch James Dyson's eye, as the the system doesn't make it easy at any age once you start on the journey to market.
Because I also recall funding every aspect of my trip by virtue of being English. Meanwhile over the way the lovely, helpful (to me, too.. ta, boyos) chaps on the Welsh Development Agency stand were basking in all the benefits of well-coordinated (and funded) efforts to support and sell both innovation and the consequently valuable IP.
I wonder if the Yanks may fancy it? Don't know how they stack up in the originality stakes, but they sure know how to make an idea not only work, but also some money.
**Maybe I could lie about my age? Nah... that wouldn't be legal. And anyway as readers of this blog will gather from my adventures to date, it's only certain folk who can have ideas or need help with 'em, apparently.
It seems so long ago...
I wonder which I was (still am?) last year when I won a Gold Medal (with Jury Congrats)* at the same event.
Even when your 'ideas' are quite down to earth, practical and may even stand a chance of making money as well as 'things better', you do tend to face a steep slope.
But James Dyson is right, the system doesn't make it easy once you start on the journey up, as Jeremy Clarkson also agrees on another page of this edition. Even before you really start, at events such as this.
Because I also recall funding every aspect of my trip by virtue of being English. Meanwhile over the way the lovely, helpful (to me, too.. ta, boyos) chaps on the Welsh Development Agency stand were basking in all the benefits of well-coordinated (and funded) efforts to support and sell both innovation and the consequently valuable IP.
* Check the green RE:tie to see with what.
Times - Time to save the world again, lads
I got my Engineering degree a few years after Brunel, and on the strict understanding that I didn't use it to make anything. I figured this didn't apply to inventing some stuff, which was lucky, as it is how I came to win a Gold Medal at The Geneva Inventions Show mentioned in the complementary InGear Gizmo article to this. It was nice, but hasn't made life too much easier.
I wish I was young enough** to be eligible to catch James Dyson's eye, as the the system doesn't make it easy at any age once you start on the journey to market.
Because I also recall funding every aspect of my trip by virtue of being English. Meanwhile over the way the lovely, helpful (to me, too.. ta, boyos) chaps on the Welsh Development Agency stand were basking in all the benefits of well-coordinated (and funded) efforts to support and sell both innovation and the consequently valuable IP.
I wonder if the Yanks may fancy it? Don't know how they stack up in the originality stakes, but they sure know how to make an idea not only work, but also some money.
**Maybe I could lie about my age? Nah... that wouldn't be legal. And anyway as readers of this blog will gather from my adventures to date, it's only certain folk who can have ideas or need help with 'em, apparently.
NEWS/GO3 PR - Stats, darn stats, and those inconvenient humans
This just in from the Office for National Statistics - Attitudes to the environment still mixed Social Trends
PR as received, edited with a few comments (that might be answered by reading the report, but life's too short:
Domestic energy consumption has risen as a third of adults admit they find
it hard to change their habits and go green.
These facts and others appear in a new edition of Social Trends, the ‘state of the nation’ statistical digest from the Office for National Statistics which is launched this year with a theme of societal well-being.
The new edition brings together a wide range of statistics on the environment, including figures which show that energy consumed by lighting and appliances in the UK increased by 136 per cent between 1971 and 2005 (well... D'uh. I'm amazed it wasn't more. With luck, low energy bulbs and better efficiencies may show a result in the last 3 years).
The data also show that carbon dioxide emissions attributable to transport saw a 101 per cent increase between 1970 and 2005 while the number of motorists in Great Britain increased by more than 14 million (from ?) between 1975/76 and 2006.
Figures from 2007 also indicate that 33 per cent of adults in England strongly agreed or tended to agree that they found it hard to become (what does 'become' mean) more environmentally friendly (er... ditto) , while 28 per cent said the environment was a low priority for them.
The same study also showed that 29 per cent of adults didn’t believe their behaviour and lifestyle contributed to climate change (how was the question asked, bearing in mind the precise nature of PMWNCC is not yet known?).
Available free (hey, we do get stuff for our taxes!) on the National Statistics website.
PR as received, edited with a few comments (that might be answered by reading the report, but life's too short:
Domestic energy consumption has risen as a third of adults admit they find
it hard to change their habits and go green.
These facts and others appear in a new edition of Social Trends, the ‘state of the nation’ statistical digest from the Office for National Statistics which is launched this year with a theme of societal well-being.
The new edition brings together a wide range of statistics on the environment, including figures which show that energy consumed by lighting and appliances in the UK increased by 136 per cent between 1971 and 2005 (well... D'uh. I'm amazed it wasn't more. With luck, low energy bulbs and better efficiencies may show a result in the last 3 years).
The data also show that carbon dioxide emissions attributable to transport saw a 101 per cent increase between 1970 and 2005 while the number of motorists in Great Britain increased by more than 14 million (from ?) between 1975/76 and 2006.
Figures from 2007 also indicate that 33 per cent of adults in England strongly agreed or tended to agree that they found it hard to become (what does 'become' mean) more environmentally friendly (er... ditto) , while 28 per cent said the environment was a low priority for them.
The same study also showed that 29 per cent of adults didn’t believe their behaviour and lifestyle contributed to climate change (how was the question asked, bearing in mind the precise nature of PMWNCC is not yet known?).
Available free (hey, we do get stuff for our taxes!) on the National Statistics website.
What does the team think?
This is a headline with a double meaning.
It's about such a situation, but also I'd be keen to find out if any who read this have any views.
It is an interesting insight into the dilemmas posed all the time by, to and from those in the media game.
What surprised me was that I was in the minority in my advocacy. But I also had an unwelcome reminder of what in reporting shapes the story. If they can find a downside... they will. So if you have a commercial imperative, you risk no critique, no matter what the cost.
It was a sincere question to a press/PR Forum about a dilemma. Here's the question (and a follow up, out of sequence, having had some input):
'Just wanted to get general feedback on this from some journalists and
PRs.
I had a press pack printed last week, both on CD and a paper version, it is
for a product launch which is now subject to a delay of a week or 10 days
(still to be confirmed) BUT the press pack contents which were printed last
week have the original launch date on them.
My question - is it acceptable to send the pack out with a note highlighting
the launch date change or do I bin everything and start again.
My head tells me to bin, my heart tells me to send out with a revision note
(hate to see the waste) but I am worried it will make me and the client look
incompetent.....'
'....I guess the sticker route might be an option, will try out and see how it
looks. This leaves me with just the duplication of the CDs which is a
minimal effort to get redone.
The packs are being sent out with product, so having hard copy of the press
information makes sense rather than the launch being communicated online.
The client is in an industry which is vulnerable to launch setbacks so it
may not look too dodgy/unprofessional to go with the sticker revision.'
Tally so far...
PRO
'Just a thought, but can you get stickers printed to go over the old date?'
'The professionalism/image side of me sees how a reprint is the only
option.
It rather depends on context. These days things change in a
heartbeat... which is why doing stuff online is a breeze. I used to
hate looking at pallets of scrapped brochures in the printers' yard
just because the overseas CEO dropped in after all had been signed off
and wanted their way of spelling used. Which is what set me off doing
as much as possible via the web.
But in this day and age I think there is almost merit in sticking with
it so long as the change is done well via a slick (as suggested )
sticker, Addendum insert, etc.
It's just a date. You hadn't sent it out yet. Nothing else is wrong.
Heck, it may even be an opportunity to make it stand out more!
Go with your heart.'
'No pressure... but I am keen to get you to see the possible advantages
of going over to the green side:)
Fully appreciate the hard copy situation... sometimes the whole eco
thing can do your head in a bit weighing creativity and 'doing the
job' vs. a purist's approach to all things enviro.
If the industry is prone to moving targets on dates then I'd say
that's a vote in favour of the sticker.
If you want to email me off list on info [at] junkk.com maybe we can
swap numbers and have a wee chat on possible options if it's not
confidential that make a silk purse out of this sow's ear (well, if
we're talking a few thousand it might get sticky. But I did something
very similar with a brochure, a hole punch, letter stamp, a bottle cap
and a ring pull)? I have a whole website with fun notions on this very
topic at my disposal!'
CON
'I would do it properly, start again...
Sending out old information will just raise questions and create more work.'
'I would get everything re-printed – it looks bad otherwise and might make
people [wonder] why there was a delay...'
'Just write yourself the headline "[client] SUFFERS DELAY" a few times and
see how you feel about it. Change the date.'
'Tough call...I totally understand your reticence to reprint but think it's
the best option. Environmentally sounder to add an addendum or put a sticker
over it, but from a PR point of view I think it's better to do the reprint
and avoid raising questions and/or potentially looking unprofessional.
Can you use the paper for something else...exciting scrap pads??!'
At least that last was trying for a positive.
At the end of the day it's their client, and product, in an industry they must know, reported on by a trade press whose tendencies must be clear. At least they tried. And if the client changed the date after an agreed production schedule and cost estimate then it's their wallets. I guess the planet may lose a little, but it's understandable in the face of such 'pressures'. Pity.
It's about such a situation, but also I'd be keen to find out if any who read this have any views.
It is an interesting insight into the dilemmas posed all the time by, to and from those in the media game.
What surprised me was that I was in the minority in my advocacy. But I also had an unwelcome reminder of what in reporting shapes the story. If they can find a downside... they will. So if you have a commercial imperative, you risk no critique, no matter what the cost.
It was a sincere question to a press/PR Forum about a dilemma. Here's the question (and a follow up, out of sequence, having had some input):
'Just wanted to get general feedback on this from some journalists and
PRs.
I had a press pack printed last week, both on CD and a paper version, it is
for a product launch which is now subject to a delay of a week or 10 days
(still to be confirmed) BUT the press pack contents which were printed last
week have the original launch date on them.
My question - is it acceptable to send the pack out with a note highlighting
the launch date change or do I bin everything and start again.
My head tells me to bin, my heart tells me to send out with a revision note
(hate to see the waste) but I am worried it will make me and the client look
incompetent.....'
'....I guess the sticker route might be an option, will try out and see how it
looks. This leaves me with just the duplication of the CDs which is a
minimal effort to get redone.
The packs are being sent out with product, so having hard copy of the press
information makes sense rather than the launch being communicated online.
The client is in an industry which is vulnerable to launch setbacks so it
may not look too dodgy/unprofessional to go with the sticker revision.'
Tally so far...
PRO
'Just a thought, but can you get stickers printed to go over the old date?'
'The professionalism/image side of me sees how a reprint is the only
option.
It rather depends on context. These days things change in a
heartbeat... which is why doing stuff online is a breeze. I used to
hate looking at pallets of scrapped brochures in the printers' yard
just because the overseas CEO dropped in after all had been signed off
and wanted their way of spelling used. Which is what set me off doing
as much as possible via the web.
But in this day and age I think there is almost merit in sticking with
it so long as the change is done well via a slick (as suggested )
sticker, Addendum insert, etc.
It's just a date. You hadn't sent it out yet. Nothing else is wrong.
Heck, it may even be an opportunity to make it stand out more!
Go with your heart.'
'No pressure... but I am keen to get you to see the possible advantages
of going over to the green side:)
Fully appreciate the hard copy situation... sometimes the whole eco
thing can do your head in a bit weighing creativity and 'doing the
job' vs. a purist's approach to all things enviro.
If the industry is prone to moving targets on dates then I'd say
that's a vote in favour of the sticker.
If you want to email me off list on info [at] junkk.com maybe we can
swap numbers and have a wee chat on possible options if it's not
confidential that make a silk purse out of this sow's ear (well, if
we're talking a few thousand it might get sticky. But I did something
very similar with a brochure, a hole punch, letter stamp, a bottle cap
and a ring pull)? I have a whole website with fun notions on this very
topic at my disposal!'
CON
'I would do it properly, start again...
Sending out old information will just raise questions and create more work.'
'I would get everything re-printed – it looks bad otherwise and might make
people [wonder] why there was a delay...'
'Just write yourself the headline "[client] SUFFERS DELAY" a few times and
see how you feel about it. Change the date.'
'Tough call...I totally understand your reticence to reprint but think it's
the best option. Environmentally sounder to add an addendum or put a sticker
over it, but from a PR point of view I think it's better to do the reprint
and avoid raising questions and/or potentially looking unprofessional.
Can you use the paper for something else...exciting scrap pads??!'
At least that last was trying for a positive.
At the end of the day it's their client, and product, in an industry they must know, reported on by a trade press whose tendencies must be clear. At least they tried. And if the client changed the date after an agreed production schedule and cost estimate then it's their wallets. I guess the planet may lose a little, but it's understandable in the face of such 'pressures'. Pity.
CHEAPIE ALERT- Franking, Scarlett, can't be licked
This... is a necessary version of FREEBIE ALERT, because I still think it might be worth sharing if something is not, as such, free... but still may save (money, kids' futures, etc):
WHEN: Now.. 'til the 30th of April
WHAT: Pitney Bowes are currently offering a 30 day no obligation free trial of their entry level franking machines - with. £20 free postage credit to get you started. Plus built-in logo.
WHAT... MORE?: Via the URL. Franked Mail is cheaper than Stamped Mail - Royal Mail are delivering a strong message to businesses by providing discounted postal rates for franked mail. Whether First or Second Class, all mail is cheaper if you frank it rather than stamp it!
HOW MUCH: Well, you do need to sign up and stay with, so your volumes need to make sense
URL: http://www.pitneyworks.co.uk/w304/
COMMENTS: Shop around! This is not the only one I have ever heard about. I have been tempted just to spare myself the hassle of stamps (and some possible eco-aspects... hard to weigh vs. a machine, delivery, ink, 'lekky... might be worth a Prof's Poser), especially with all the new rules, but our volumes just don't warrant it.
WHEN: Now.. 'til the 30th of April
WHAT: Pitney Bowes are currently offering a 30 day no obligation free trial of their entry level franking machines - with. £20 free postage credit to get you started. Plus built-in logo.
WHAT... MORE?: Via the URL. Franked Mail is cheaper than Stamped Mail - Royal Mail are delivering a strong message to businesses by providing discounted postal rates for franked mail. Whether First or Second Class, all mail is cheaper if you frank it rather than stamp it!
HOW MUCH: Well, you do need to sign up and stay with, so your volumes need to make sense
URL: http://www.pitneyworks.co.uk/w304/
COMMENTS: Shop around! This is not the only one I have ever heard about. I have been tempted just to spare myself the hassle of stamps (and some possible eco-aspects... hard to weigh vs. a machine, delivery, ink, 'lekky... might be worth a Prof's Poser), especially with all the new rules, but our volumes just don't warrant it.
Quote of the day - worthy of doublespeak, too
Actually a quote of a quote of a quote (so it may or may not be verifibale, but rings true).
From the Reader's Digest quoting a lady from Campaign for Better Transport about The Treasury on the apparent inability of such as the Highways Agency to actually get a job done on time and within estimate/budget: 'A tactic to gain ministerial approval for projects via low estimates that is so common, it is given the term 'optimism bias'.
See also lying, defrauding...
From the Reader's Digest quoting a lady from Campaign for Better Transport about The Treasury on the apparent inability of such as the Highways Agency to actually get a job done on time and within estimate/budget: 'A tactic to gain ministerial approval for projects via low estimates that is so common, it is given the term 'optimism bias'.
See also lying, defrauding...
Don't get mad...get even
It's going to be a must watch: Don't get mad...get even: Dom Joly gets his own back
And before I get accused of drifting from the topic of matters green, read down to the end and see there is an episode where he/they investigate the rubbish of of those who would fine others for not being precise with how they deal with theirs.
Small victories are all we can look forward to these days.
And before I get accused of drifting from the topic of matters green, read down to the end and see there is an episode where he/they investigate the rubbish of of those who would fine others for not being precise with how they deal with theirs.
Small victories are all we can look forward to these days.
The pain with trains is starting to show the strains
I usually quote articles. But often the letters in response to them are more revealing. And sensible.
Take these to an Indy piece on trains: Train blame
I was mainly attracted by the one about the 'Gee whizz' reporting on growth on usage.
As with waaaay too much these days, and it doesn't matter if it's making a case for good or bad, up or down, it seems oddly facile to me that too many journos and editors seem to have a slight blind spot to the fact that there are a lot more of us doing stuff year on year, and that will often explain a lot much more simply than some of the notions that they attempt to gush over or spin into a headline.
Take these to an Indy piece on trains: Train blame
I was mainly attracted by the one about the 'Gee whizz' reporting on growth on usage.
As with waaaay too much these days, and it doesn't matter if it's making a case for good or bad, up or down, it seems oddly facile to me that too many journos and editors seem to have a slight blind spot to the fact that there are a lot more of us doing stuff year on year, and that will often explain a lot much more simply than some of the notions that they attempt to gush over or spin into a headline.
All the news that's fit to be... branded
BBC Mark II: Mr Byford gives the corporation's journalism a makeover
A long piece. I am sure that in there, somewhere, amongst the MBA-speak and brand-babble, there might be something about using funds in addressing the quality of the actual journalism.
Your licence fee at work.
Coincidentally on the matter of our public-service news reporting, I listen to a BBC News reader ask the CEO of the travel company (whose coach was rammed by a rogue truck driver) 'Should we be asking if our children can be safe when they travel overseas?'.
From the ridiculous, I move to this:
PR: The dark history of spin and its threat to genuine news
So if they are not being stupid or acting as agenda-driven mouthpieces, they are being bought (Fancy buying a toy that makes the sound of bubble-wrap? The solution, according to the BBC, is to buy bubble wrap. Or... and here's thought, keep all that you get sent and reuse it when required... with a few stress relief pops at the edges (so it still functions) as you re-wrap).
But sorry, that's all we have time for. Now, back to the skateboarding turtle...
Addendum:
The Register - Earth to Ofcom: They're our airwaves. Give them back - Priceless, if depressing.
Times - BBC rings changes with news revamp - universal appeal. Not.
A long piece. I am sure that in there, somewhere, amongst the MBA-speak and brand-babble, there might be something about using funds in addressing the quality of the actual journalism.
Your licence fee at work.
Coincidentally on the matter of our public-service news reporting, I listen to a BBC News reader ask the CEO of the travel company (whose coach was rammed by a rogue truck driver) 'Should we be asking if our children can be safe when they travel overseas?'.
From the ridiculous, I move to this:
PR: The dark history of spin and its threat to genuine news
So if they are not being stupid or acting as agenda-driven mouthpieces, they are being bought (Fancy buying a toy that makes the sound of bubble-wrap? The solution, according to the BBC, is to buy bubble wrap. Or... and here's thought, keep all that you get sent and reuse it when required... with a few stress relief pops at the edges (so it still functions) as you re-wrap).
But sorry, that's all we have time for. Now, back to the skateboarding turtle...
Addendum:
The Register - Earth to Ofcom: They're our airwaves. Give them back - Priceless, if depressing.
Times - BBC rings changes with news revamp - universal appeal. Not.
Sunday, April 13, 2008
CATEGORY - HOME
I'm evolving a new format for stuff I come across or get sent. Let's see how it goes. I quite like how it's shaping up.
Articles
Grants
Information
US Department of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy - Don't ask. It is what kicked me off on this new category. I found it useful. Now I must get some from the UK!
Suppliers
See labels below for previous notes. If you have anything to add to the headings above... share 'em! Direct to info[at]junkk.com or via the comments on the blog.
Articles
Grants
Information
US Department of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy - Don't ask. It is what kicked me off on this new category. I found it useful. Now I must get some from the UK!
Suppliers
See labels below for previous notes. If you have anything to add to the headings above... share 'em! Direct to info[at]junkk.com or via the comments on the blog.
What's better than waste? Duplicated waste!
Government ignores energy-efficiency policy
It would be interesting, if likely depressing, to get a handle on the sheer number of well staffed gov. departmental and quango empires there are, plus massive associated comms budgets, deployed in 'environmental' pursuits, and what the actual enviROI the public and planet derives from them. Especially, as suggested here, many are either overlapping or even competing.
It would be interesting, if likely depressing, to get a handle on the sheer number of well staffed gov. departmental and quango empires there are, plus massive associated comms budgets, deployed in 'environmental' pursuits, and what the actual enviROI the public and planet derives from them. Especially, as suggested here, many are either overlapping or even competing.
Lest 'we' forget
I mean those of 'us' of a green bent, who do get some compo for our efforts:
EcoLogical
At least the little things you, and I, do can lead to a bit of text that can (as writers) go towards our paying for stuff. I'm guessing you get paid for these pieces, and I have high hopes for Google Adsense on my site and blog.
So let's spare a thought to all those being exhorted to join 'us' in our eco efforts, but whose reward stays very much in their hearts, and often at some cost, as you point out.
EcoLogical
At least the little things you, and I, do can lead to a bit of text that can (as writers) go towards our paying for stuff. I'm guessing you get paid for these pieces, and I have high hopes for Google Adsense on my site and blog.
So let's spare a thought to all those being exhorted to join 'us' in our eco efforts, but whose reward stays very much in their hearts, and often at some cost, as you point out.
Charitable Aims
A slightly 'easier' day newswise, as the BBC seems to have ditched all in favour of the London Marathon.
I think I might give it a miss. Barely started, and the 24/7 news-gathering machine is already struggling to find things to talk about.
But I just watched one piece of some interest, which was a noble group of Masai warriors here to run and raise money for their village. I recall these fine chaps from news several days ago.
However one thing did strike me. They are hoping to raise £600, a more than modest aim, and amazing what it will achieve back home. I am also pretty sure that, with such coverage, they will get a wee bit more than that... if they can find a use.
Thing is, bearing in mind there were a good few of them, I couldn't help but wonder how that amount equates to the flying and accommodation costs.
This does crop up quite a lot. I have been invited to sponsor charity runs/rides, etc in all sorts of exotic places, and the funding seems to kick in only after the participant's costs are covered. Many times that seems like me paying for someone to have a fairly nice holiday with a bit of exercise on top.
I am sure these guys were/are sponsored, but one does have to wonder what the chaROI is in many cases. It is not so satisfying and community bonding 'n all, not to mention no coverage means no PR means no support in the first place, but in terms of getting the maximum amount to where it will do most good you have to wonder whether the aims are being best met for those one presumes it's all intended for.
I'd like to see what the numbers are. Maybe it's all better than nothing as without an event there would be no contributions at all, but it would be interesting to see who the beneficiaries are for each pound generous souls contribute.
Times - The ego marathon - only to show I am not alone on the chugger deal when a sunny clime is involved.
Times - e-mail chuggers, take a hike
I think I might give it a miss. Barely started, and the 24/7 news-gathering machine is already struggling to find things to talk about.
But I just watched one piece of some interest, which was a noble group of Masai warriors here to run and raise money for their village. I recall these fine chaps from news several days ago.
However one thing did strike me. They are hoping to raise £600, a more than modest aim, and amazing what it will achieve back home. I am also pretty sure that, with such coverage, they will get a wee bit more than that... if they can find a use.
Thing is, bearing in mind there were a good few of them, I couldn't help but wonder how that amount equates to the flying and accommodation costs.
This does crop up quite a lot. I have been invited to sponsor charity runs/rides, etc in all sorts of exotic places, and the funding seems to kick in only after the participant's costs are covered. Many times that seems like me paying for someone to have a fairly nice holiday with a bit of exercise on top.
I am sure these guys were/are sponsored, but one does have to wonder what the chaROI is in many cases. It is not so satisfying and community bonding 'n all, not to mention no coverage means no PR means no support in the first place, but in terms of getting the maximum amount to where it will do most good you have to wonder whether the aims are being best met for those one presumes it's all intended for.
I'd like to see what the numbers are. Maybe it's all better than nothing as without an event there would be no contributions at all, but it would be interesting to see who the beneficiaries are for each pound generous souls contribute.
Times - The ego marathon - only to show I am not alone on the chugger deal when a sunny clime is involved.
Times - e-mail chuggers, take a hike
CATEGORY - Doublespeak
Indy - Brown: I am staying away from Olympics opening ceremony – but it's not a boycott -
ie: 'ceasing or refusing to deal with something as a protest, and to force it to become more acceptable'.
Reuters - U.N. chief will miss Beijing Olympic ceremony - seems GB is not the only world, er, 'leader' who didn't know about the Olympics this year and didn't RSVP properly to the party ('scuse pun) invite properly with first checking his diary.
BBC - Curiouser and curiouser
Ah well, he's not alone I guess. Looks like other World Leade...er, um, ers, such as the Head of the UN didn't check their MySpace calendar well enough either to avoid a schedule clash to give a proper RSVP to the party ('scuse pun) invite.
So it seems were all confused, still. I certainly am. The British government seems to be. And our media. Even the BBC...
To infinity... and beyond!
But many posters are right, this pales into insignificance compared to such vital high-profile prime ministerial outings on pressing issues such as football manager selection, plastic bags, George Clooney and US charity phone ins.
Guardian - The accidental hero - It's getting rather fun, in a tragic comedic way, swapping between various partisan media (Nick Robinson and Mihir Bose of the BBC and their blog threads are currently tying themselves into Gordian Knots!) to see just what was and wasn't said by whom, and when... as none seem to able to agree! But this is the leaders of countries and national reporting organs, remember!
Guardian - Opening comments - Gordon Brown and the Beijing Olympics
Indy - When is a boycott not a boycott?
The Times - Junior culture minister Gerry Sutcliffe and his adroit U-turn over alcohol taxes - which are either far too high or about right, depending on when you catch him - and his deft explanation for the apparent difference: “My comments do not accurately reflect my views.”
Indy - NEW - Defence Secretary Des Browne, pressed by Jon Humphrys on troops who have died in Iraq and Afghanistan because of inadequate equipment: "Well all of those cases have been examined and in each case which has been examined where the lessons have been learned we have learned those lessons."
I can see this category becoming a bit of a feature.
ie: 'ceasing or refusing to deal with something as a protest, and to force it to become more acceptable'.
Reuters - U.N. chief will miss Beijing Olympic ceremony - seems GB is not the only world, er, 'leader' who didn't know about the Olympics this year and didn't RSVP properly to the party ('scuse pun) invite properly with first checking his diary.
BBC - Curiouser and curiouser
Ah well, he's not alone I guess. Looks like other World Leade...er, um, ers, such as the Head of the UN didn't check their MySpace calendar well enough either to avoid a schedule clash to give a proper RSVP to the party ('scuse pun) invite.
So it seems were all confused, still. I certainly am. The British government seems to be. And our media. Even the BBC...
To infinity... and beyond!
But many posters are right, this pales into insignificance compared to such vital high-profile prime ministerial outings on pressing issues such as football manager selection, plastic bags, George Clooney and US charity phone ins.
Guardian - The accidental hero - It's getting rather fun, in a tragic comedic way, swapping between various partisan media (Nick Robinson and Mihir Bose of the BBC and their blog threads are currently tying themselves into Gordian Knots!) to see just what was and wasn't said by whom, and when... as none seem to able to agree! But this is the leaders of countries and national reporting organs, remember!
Guardian - Opening comments - Gordon Brown and the Beijing Olympics
Indy - When is a boycott not a boycott?
The Times - Junior culture minister Gerry Sutcliffe and his adroit U-turn over alcohol taxes - which are either far too high or about right, depending on when you catch him - and his deft explanation for the apparent difference: “My comments do not accurately reflect my views.”
Indy - NEW - Defence Secretary Des Browne, pressed by Jon Humphrys on troops who have died in Iraq and Afghanistan because of inadequate equipment: "Well all of those cases have been examined and in each case which has been examined where the lessons have been learned we have learned those lessons."
I can see this category becoming a bit of a feature.
Will the next target please step up...
Because you're worth it...
Can't disagree. A ton of marketing to flog a very small amount of goo that is of questionable use. Thing is, it all rather smacks of another tokenistic 'Planet Ban-it'. In the example I allude to below, the total of my aftershave commitment (no other regime for this old-age male, bar soap, shampoo and toothpaste... all packaging under constant Junkk-potential probing) is about ten small glass bottles. Plus a few cardboard boxes that got recycled. In the great totality of all waste, I am not too sure this is up there priority-wise...again.
Mind you, this one might be fun, as I rather suspect it will see quite a few luvvies on board with these rather puritan advocacies finding things hitting home... or at least the mud-pack-coated weekend retreats this bunch seem to be able to afford.
A wee check in the bathroom cabinets of those (male and female) often very vocal in other 'green' related ban-advocacy might indeed be interesting. Maybe they are just lucky to be able to afford very good skin.
As to my Fahrenheit aftershave, after several years' loyalty I almost have enough empty bottles to make my bathroom mirror light shade surrounds.
Indy - Cosmetics and Excess Packaging
I'm sorry, but I think in this case the best way is to allow the consumer to decide, but provide such as Lush and Body Shop every opportunity to promote their less impactful options. As I will.
Mind you, I still need a few more of those Fahrenheit bottles to finish my mirror! Oh, the dilemma.
Can't disagree. A ton of marketing to flog a very small amount of goo that is of questionable use. Thing is, it all rather smacks of another tokenistic 'Planet Ban-it'. In the example I allude to below, the total of my aftershave commitment (no other regime for this old-age male, bar soap, shampoo and toothpaste... all packaging under constant Junkk-potential probing) is about ten small glass bottles. Plus a few cardboard boxes that got recycled. In the great totality of all waste, I am not too sure this is up there priority-wise...again.
Mind you, this one might be fun, as I rather suspect it will see quite a few luvvies on board with these rather puritan advocacies finding things hitting home... or at least the mud-pack-coated weekend retreats this bunch seem to be able to afford.
A wee check in the bathroom cabinets of those (male and female) often very vocal in other 'green' related ban-advocacy might indeed be interesting. Maybe they are just lucky to be able to afford very good skin.
As to my Fahrenheit aftershave, after several years' loyalty I almost have enough empty bottles to make my bathroom mirror light shade surrounds.
Indy - Cosmetics and Excess Packaging
I'm sorry, but I think in this case the best way is to allow the consumer to decide, but provide such as Lush and Body Shop every opportunity to promote their less impactful options. As I will.
Mind you, I still need a few more of those Fahrenheit bottles to finish my mirror! Oh, the dilemma.
Getting Fry'd
A Google ad link popped up on site (hence, I guess, paid for):
Stephen Fry on Climate Change
I know he's just another celeb. But he's bright lad and I rate his intellect. His piece is too short and very simplistic, but the main plea he makes resonates well, if not addressing how one deals with some of the other consequences of such advocacy (which sort of proves the problem, and his point, by providing an angle for those who would do nothing to highlight. Hence I think one has to at least tip to the 'Economics vs. Environment' balances). Sadly these are the down sides of what some say must be done (or not), and are in the hands of our hapless pols.
Interesting comments in reply, pro and con, though following my recent thoughts on where moderation becomes censorship, and the need for some rules, I do note the system on Friction.tv does seem to allow some comments to stay up that I would not.
The % agree/neutral/disagree bar is a surprise. Without letting my own bias intrude, I would have thought it would reflect more sympathy to this view, and makes one wonder about the value of such things (if used to explain or justify anything, but certainly 'CO' vs. 'CP' views, as all too often can happen in news hungry 24/7 media environments) as valid, viable information tools. One is, after all, talking a base of... 31 (at time of writing). As one thread contributor posed, in light of his popularity, and as this has been up 4 months, it is surprising how few have engaged, especially in support. I had heard of Friction tv, and am signed up I think, but it has not passed my radar for a long while.
Stephen Fry on Climate Change
I know he's just another celeb. But he's bright lad and I rate his intellect. His piece is too short and very simplistic, but the main plea he makes resonates well, if not addressing how one deals with some of the other consequences of such advocacy (which sort of proves the problem, and his point, by providing an angle for those who would do nothing to highlight. Hence I think one has to at least tip to the 'Economics vs. Environment' balances). Sadly these are the down sides of what some say must be done (or not), and are in the hands of our hapless pols.
Interesting comments in reply, pro and con, though following my recent thoughts on where moderation becomes censorship, and the need for some rules, I do note the system on Friction.tv does seem to allow some comments to stay up that I would not.
The % agree/neutral/disagree bar is a surprise. Without letting my own bias intrude, I would have thought it would reflect more sympathy to this view, and makes one wonder about the value of such things (if used to explain or justify anything, but certainly 'CO' vs. 'CP' views, as all too often can happen in news hungry 24/7 media environments) as valid, viable information tools. One is, after all, talking a base of... 31 (at time of writing). As one thread contributor posed, in light of his popularity, and as this has been up 4 months, it is surprising how few have engaged, especially in support. I had heard of Friction tv, and am signed up I think, but it has not passed my radar for a long while.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
To blog, or not to blog, that is the question?
Many of my blogs here are as a result of my writing on other blogs. A kind of e-BOGOF, for me anyway.
I can pop a promo for Junkk in another place, and end up with content for here.
Moderation considerations aside, I have had almost no issues at all with the technicalities of posting. They can happen, and indeed have on the Junkk Forum, for instance when I managed to kill something with my Mac O/S!
But on the whole, they work pretty well. Why not? They need not be too complex.
Except, it seesm, those deployed, at vast expense, with hordes of staff, by the BBC. It was getting almost impossible to post, or know if your post got through.
But what really got to me was how cavalier they have been over the last several months, especially when I know others beside me must have been keeping them well apprised of what is going wrong.
Yes, I have had the odd 'Thank you for your feedback; we're sorry (but really couldn't care less... what can you do about it? Withdraw your patronage or payment?) and we're working on a fix'. But at no time have I seen anything remotely like an advice to explain what might happen and where they are doing something.
Well, now we have. Worth reading the replies, too:
Blog problems - a solution is nigh
I can pop a promo for Junkk in another place, and end up with content for here.
Moderation considerations aside, I have had almost no issues at all with the technicalities of posting. They can happen, and indeed have on the Junkk Forum, for instance when I managed to kill something with my Mac O/S!
But on the whole, they work pretty well. Why not? They need not be too complex.
Except, it seesm, those deployed, at vast expense, with hordes of staff, by the BBC. It was getting almost impossible to post, or know if your post got through.
But what really got to me was how cavalier they have been over the last several months, especially when I know others beside me must have been keeping them well apprised of what is going wrong.
Yes, I have had the odd 'Thank you for your feedback; we're sorry (but really couldn't care less... what can you do about it? Withdraw your patronage or payment?) and we're working on a fix'. But at no time have I seen anything remotely like an advice to explain what might happen and where they are doing something.
Well, now we have. Worth reading the replies, too:
Blog problems - a solution is nigh
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