Call it grumpy Tuesday. End in sight?
The sad thing is I actually agree that there is a need for stirring imagery to motivate. I just am getting weary of a new class of eco-warrior who see it as their job to educate the rest of us in the error of our ways, but seem immune to the slight irony behind much of what they do for fun and/or employment being pretty much what the rest of us are being told we mustn't any more.
And, if true, when there turns out to be sting in the tail (there would appear to be another story about the plight of the village in the picture), it rather sets the more moderate causes back a tad.
I guess I'll get a slapping from the 'but you're missing the point (of flying the world to share this)' crowd, but it all rather smacked of 'them' and 'the rest of us'. Like doco makers who 'do' the Caribbean or dive shop owners in the Red Sea getting their knickers in a twist about plastic bags as the main priority. Hence:
Just wondering, but from what was that picture of Kivalina taken?
Passing plane, fine(ish - but it rather begs who is in it going where and why), but if someone went up in a helicopter I'm guessing that will be ok because 'it's their job', and there was a need to 'raise awareness'.
The way it's going I think the Antarctic will have set up a pub at the airport to handle all the journos popping up there to do a piece to camera about, well, all of this being caused by other folk flying hither and thither... if not to do a piece to or with a camera.
But as our new climate savour TB would say, 'it's not like, really practical for HIM not to fly'.
I guess some just have more green cred to blow than others.
So here's a wheeze for all those in the 'meedya' popping off for a weekend's skiing while the snow holds this Easter: when you're taking your happy snaps off piste, just claim it's for a piece on the effects of global warming.
Seems to work. And nice if you can get it.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
NEWS/LOCAL - UK - HR area- Litter pick, Hereford, April 1st
Hmmn. This needs thinking about.
It will work fine on the main site (only all those from overseas using my advised HR9 postcode will get a lot of stuff that may be a tad beyond an easy commute... sorry:() when we start popping stuff up there again.
Here, well, all of you are getting it. For now, if you see a 'LOCAL' heading and the title and/or locale doesn't appeal... please ignore.
But if it does, read on MacDuff!
As taken from their PR:
Some local worthies are planning on doing a litter pick in Hereford city on April 1st. (I am assuming this isn't, well, you know... a leg pull. But check!).
The plan is to meet at M&S in High Town at 5 pm, pick for an hour or so and then retire to the pub.
It's not a substitute for the Council, but a way to bring concerned people together and draw attention to the problem while actually cleaning up some of the mess in the City.
They are looking for a few more volunteers. If you'd like to come along, do let them know. Or if you know of others who would like to come along, please encourage them (as Junkk.com is doing here) to get in touch, via jesse4hereford@gmail.com. They have some kit already but need to know numbers in order to locate more.
Civic share, over and out.
It will work fine on the main site (only all those from overseas using my advised HR9 postcode will get a lot of stuff that may be a tad beyond an easy commute... sorry:() when we start popping stuff up there again.
Here, well, all of you are getting it. For now, if you see a 'LOCAL' heading and the title and/or locale doesn't appeal... please ignore.
But if it does, read on MacDuff!
As taken from their PR:
Some local worthies are planning on doing a litter pick in Hereford city on April 1st. (I am assuming this isn't, well, you know... a leg pull. But check!).
The plan is to meet at M&S in High Town at 5 pm, pick for an hour or so and then retire to the pub.
It's not a substitute for the Council, but a way to bring concerned people together and draw attention to the problem while actually cleaning up some of the mess in the City.
They are looking for a few more volunteers. If you'd like to come along, do let them know. Or if you know of others who would like to come along, please encourage them (as Junkk.com is doing here) to get in touch, via jesse4hereford@gmail.com. They have some kit already but need to know numbers in order to locate more.
Civic share, over and out.
NEWS/Commercial PR - It's what you leave behind that counts
This blog and the site both have categories devoted to the sensitive issue of eco-funerals, so I am happy to add this PR to the blog to kick off as it's in keeping.As received, with a few edits and comments:
Daisy Coffins bury taboos at Retirement Show 2008
Daisy Coffins will be at the Retirement Show will demonstrate how sustainable and attractive natural coffins can be, which are 100% natural made from water hyacinth and banana leafs.
The handcrafted coffins are a real alternative to the main stream wood chip veneer products and are getting noticed by many funeral directors, as more and more requests for sustainable coffins come flooding in.
RE:VIEW - ECOPACK '08
Once you have done a few, you come to realise that there are certain inevitabilities about tradeshows.One is that in the last few hours of the event, a smart, besuited lad or lass (or three) will saunter up and be incredibly concerned about how well it has all gone, and hence interested 'how it was for you?'. It's was only after a a couple I sussed that these were the advance guard for next year's sales.
I suspect my stock answer is hard to read, being 'I'll tell you when the cheque clears...'. Because you sure as heck are not going to commit until you figure out if being there resulted in anything to cover the time and money it cost... plus a bit on top to make it worthwhile.
And I defy most to know that, short of a guy whipping out his chequebook on the stand and making a purchase on the spot.
The best one gets (or at least I do), is 'a sense'.
So... what was my sense here? Short answer: No idea.
Unless you are odd, you are there to get in front of a person who will like your product or service enough to want to buy it. And I am pretty odd, having done several of these with such a vague offering (Junkk.com) that it was hard for anyone to know what to do with it. At least this time we had RE:tie. And in combo they did great. Our Steptoe-like stand was like no other, and certainly attracted many who were intrigued. This presented the opportunity to chat on re:use in general, and then close with the RE:tie. And one has to presume anyone who devotes the time and cost to visit 'Innovative Packaging/ECOPACK' must be quite keen on, well, innovative or eco-packaging.
Being 'co-located', there were in fact three distinct but complementary events running concurrently. At one end was Innovative Packaging, at the other ECOPACK, and in the middle
Packtech & Contract Pack. Hence our main interest was our end and t'other end, as the bit in the middle was mainly big machines sticking stuff on or in things. And we presumed our audience would come to us for the same synergistic reasons.
So... who came? Well, the reason for the stand was to capture the Heads of Marketing, PR, Production and CSR of the likes of Tesco, Unilever and Kelloggs. Sadly, they did not seem to make it. But all those companies' logos are on the cards of folk who did stop by. The key is whether they are senior or motivated enough to turn their interest and enthusiasm (which all were... very) into actual follow-up. But it's a start. There were also the mysterious one. These are folk who don't wear their badges. I have a theory that they are either big shots not wanting to be pestered or minnows who don't want to be seen for what they are so they can nick a free pen and mint. At least one hopes there were some big shots breezing by. Then it's a case of fingers crossed they see what you are doing and bear you in mind. Unlikely.
And finally the media. Not good. I did not get the impression the show was very well attended by anyone, even from the trades, much less the nationals. Which, bearing in mind the interest in packaging these days is odd... and sad. We did get a few visits, but all from overseas design magazines!
As to fellow exhibitors, I was pretty disappointed. Though there were lots of nice folk, there were very few products to float my boat. In the innovative bit there were a few cute designs, but nothing special. And in ECOPACK about 99% were bio/compostable trays. Some worthy... some not so sure. A less than inspiring collection, at least in a reuse sense.
I am having a definite rethink on our ideas-packed stand. Great for educational shows, but to attract a business visit maybe it's time to invest in one of those pull-up Nimlock jobbies and just stick it up with one message and a sample on the table. KISS.
Was it worth it? Hard to say. Between the stand and my speaking there were several score who loved what we're about and with whom who knows what may transpire. And all it takes is one nugget to turn things around and cover the costs.That's the trouble with the old digging for gold thing... unless you keep digging you may miss the seam that lies just a few more feet ahead.
Frankly, our thinking is that it's now time to go personal, and pick up the phone and make appointments. One thing the stand did show was that when people get the 30' elevator they 'get' it and like it. And a phone call and a warm-lead trip is a lot better than standing in a 3x4m void hoping. And for several thousand pounds paid for the stand and logistics, you can make quite a few sales calls.
On an 'in-passing note' , what was interesting is that the NEC has recycling bins in the foyer with four choices of separation (no glass, oddly). Inside, there were a few token cardboard jobs for paper, but as to the rest... chuck it in the bin mate!
There was also a repeat at the end of what I witness time and again with events that claim to be green. With no excuse, but plenty of fair reason in a world dominated by time and cash pressures. As soon as the end bell rang everything got thrown away in the dash to strike stands as quickly as possible and get gone with as little to weigh one down. Of course every part of ours was/is reusable, so I was one of the last to leave. I even tried to get our press kits back, mainly because they are reusable and expensive to make up, but of course they were already in a skip. Frustrating.
And maybe a fair metaphor for the show. A bit too much trying to look green and not enough actually wanting to really be it. But maybe one or two of those visitors will make it worth our whiles to have gone... and us being their the same for them.
No suprise at all
Given that our Gov cannot even decide what actual CO2 emissions are (see previous post), it comes as no surprise, too, that they are failing to meet their own internal CO2 emission reduction targets, as reported in the Guardian.
"Apart from the Ministry of Defence, which significantly reduced its emissions in 2005/6 following a part privatisation, central government now emits 22% more than it did in 1999, according to the sustainable development commission."
Looking good to achieve the set targets then? (Even though they are probably not sure what the targets actually are.). I think not!
"It recommends that each department urgently reduces its annual energy budget and only uses air travel when there is no alternative."
Hahahahahahaha! Sorry, I'm rolling about laughing at that one! It seems to me that when it comes to the great and good in our Gov, air travel IS the chosen option at ALL times EXCEPT when there is no flight available to a specific destination.
To be fair, sometimes there really is no option; after all, it a damned long way by train from Kings Cross to Bali or Washington.
ADDENDUM 1 (from Junkk Male):
To be fair, it seems they are on the case. PR as provided in full, with a few highlights and comments by yours truly:
New centre of expertise for cutting carbon emissions across Whitehall
Government response to Sustainable Development Commission's Sustainable Development in
A new Centre of Expertise is to be set up to help Whitehall departments achieve their targets for reducing carbon emissions and waste across the government estate.
Details of the Centre of Expertise for Sustainable Procurement (CESP) were unveiled as the Government published its response to the Sustainable Development Commission's latest report on how the Government is meeting its own sustainable objectives for tackling climate change.
Today's annual Sustainable Development in Government (SDiG) report by the independent watchdog and adviser on sustainability shows a small improvement in the Government's overall performance against its key ‘eco’ commitments – including a four per cent fall in carbon emissions across the estate by the end of 2006/7. However, the Commission called on departments to urgently build on initiatives already taken to ensure targets can be met and to demonstrate that the Government is leading by example on sustainability.
The CESP will be set up within the Office of Government Commerce (OGC) alongside the Government's Chief Sustainability Officer – a new post to be appointed to take forward a culture of change across all departments in sustainable operations and procurement.
Cabinet Secretary Sir Gus O'Donnell, who took personal charge of work in this area last March, has made sustainability of the government estate one of his four priorities for the civil service. Sir Gus said:
“The Civil Service must be fully committed to sustainable working, reflecting the increasing priority placed on environmental responsibility by the public we serve. We must find new and innovative ways of raising the bar for sustainable working, planning and procurement.
“There is still a long way to go but the establishment of the Centre of Expertise for Sustainable Procurement marks the culmination of significant progress over the last twelve months. This central co-ordination and guidance will help all government departments work to deliver sustainable working practices for the future.”
Environment Secretary Hilary Benn said:
“In the year that has elapsed since the period covered by this report, departments have been working to cut emissions, waste and water use and to increase recycling levels.
“The measures we're announcing today will help us to do better in the year ahead.”
Nigel Smith, Chief Executive of OGC, also spoke about the way forward to ensure sustainable practice and procurement. He said:
“Government is taking the issue of sustainability very seriously, but we recognise that we need to do a lot more in order to meet the targets we have set ourselves. We can only do this if we build on the best practice that exists across Government, and if we have good and robust information, so that we know what's happening, what impact our actions are having and where the gaps are. I'm therefore delighted that the new Centre for Expertise is to be established in OGC, and that all Departments are committed to supporting its work.
“OGC has a strong track record in achieving quantifiable results across Government, based on robust data, clear standard-setting, and close and collaborative working with Departments to achieve delivery. We believe we are now well-placed to lead real change.”
The Government accepts in principle all the recommendations made by the SDC, and among the steps that will now be taken are the following:
* From April 2008 all departmental heads will have a specific objective to meet Sustainable Operations on the Government Estate (SOGE) targets, against which their performance will be assessed
* A major Green Government IT programme will be launched in the summer - Another one?
* From 2010 all central Government departments will be included in a pioneering emissions trading scheme, the Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC), which will compel them to improve their energy efficiency. This mandatory emissions trading scheme will cover around 5000 public and private organisations, including government departments, retailers, banks and local authorities, which combined account for 10 per cent of the UK economy's emissions
* Action to achieve the work space efficiency standard of 12 square metres per FTE will be published in April 2008
* From this summer all new vehicles used by ministers and permanent secretaries (except a small number exempt for operational reasons) will have carbon emissions below 130g/km
* The use of bottled water for meetings and other official business is to be phased (er, can't they just, um, stop?) out across the whole government estate by the summer
In its response to the report, the Government accepts the need for more better and more accurate data against which the progress of departments can be measured. A major validation exercise to upgrade the quality of data provided to the SDC and the baselines used to assess performance has been undertaken in the past two months.
1. The 2007 Sustainable Development in Government (SDiG) report, published today, assesses the performance of central Government operations for 2006/07 against the targets of the Framework for Sustainable Operations on the Government Estate (SOGE).
2. The Government's formal response to the 2007 SDiG report can be found at
I must confess that I only just got around to this by virtue of rolling on the floor laughing silly at the notion of the creation of another 'Centre of Expertise', mind. That those highly talented, highly paid folk in various departments need yet more folk in new ones to help them all do, er, less, is choice.
Addendum 2: (Dave)
Ooooo-errr. A response from Hilary Benn, no less, to an earlier article claiming that our Gov was issuing 'misleading' figures on the overall UK's CO2 emissions. "It is nonsense". So that's OK then.
"Apart from the Ministry of Defence, which significantly reduced its emissions in 2005/6 following a part privatisation, central government now emits 22% more than it did in 1999, according to the sustainable development commission."
Looking good to achieve the set targets then? (Even though they are probably not sure what the targets actually are.). I think not!
"It recommends that each department urgently reduces its annual energy budget and only uses air travel when there is no alternative."
Hahahahahahaha! Sorry, I'm rolling about laughing at that one! It seems to me that when it comes to the great and good in our Gov, air travel IS the chosen option at ALL times EXCEPT when there is no flight available to a specific destination.
To be fair, sometimes there really is no option; after all, it a damned long way by train from Kings Cross to Bali or Washington.
ADDENDUM 1 (from Junkk Male):
To be fair, it seems they are on the case. PR as provided in full, with a few highlights and comments by yours truly:
New centre of expertise for cutting carbon emissions across Whitehall
Government response to Sustainable Development Commission's Sustainable Development in
A new Centre of Expertise is to be set up to help Whitehall departments achieve their targets for reducing carbon emissions and waste across the government estate.
Details of the Centre of Expertise for Sustainable Procurement (CESP) were unveiled as the Government published its response to the Sustainable Development Commission's latest report on how the Government is meeting its own sustainable objectives for tackling climate change.
Today's annual Sustainable Development in Government (SDiG) report by the independent watchdog and adviser on sustainability shows a small improvement in the Government's overall performance against its key ‘eco’ commitments – including a four per cent fall in carbon emissions across the estate by the end of 2006/7. However, the Commission called on departments to urgently build on initiatives already taken to ensure targets can be met and to demonstrate that the Government is leading by example on sustainability.
The CESP will be set up within the Office of Government Commerce (OGC) alongside the Government's Chief Sustainability Officer – a new post to be appointed to take forward a culture of change across all departments in sustainable operations and procurement.
Cabinet Secretary Sir Gus O'Donnell, who took personal charge of work in this area last March, has made sustainability of the government estate one of his four priorities for the civil service. Sir Gus said:
“The Civil Service must be fully committed to sustainable working, reflecting the increasing priority placed on environmental responsibility by the public we serve. We must find new and innovative ways of raising the bar for sustainable working, planning and procurement.
“There is still a long way to go but the establishment of the Centre of Expertise for Sustainable Procurement marks the culmination of significant progress over the last twelve months. This central co-ordination and guidance will help all government departments work to deliver sustainable working practices for the future.”
Environment Secretary Hilary Benn said:
“In the year that has elapsed since the period covered by this report, departments have been working to cut emissions, waste and water use and to increase recycling levels.
“The measures we're announcing today will help us to do better in the year ahead.”
Nigel Smith, Chief Executive of OGC, also spoke about the way forward to ensure sustainable practice and procurement. He said:
“Government is taking the issue of sustainability very seriously, but we recognise that we need to do a lot more in order to meet the targets we have set ourselves. We can only do this if we build on the best practice that exists across Government, and if we have good and robust information, so that we know what's happening, what impact our actions are having and where the gaps are. I'm therefore delighted that the new Centre for Expertise is to be established in OGC, and that all Departments are committed to supporting its work.
“OGC has a strong track record in achieving quantifiable results across Government, based on robust data, clear standard-setting, and close and collaborative working with Departments to achieve delivery. We believe we are now well-placed to lead real change.”
The Government accepts in principle all the recommendations made by the SDC, and among the steps that will now be taken are the following:
* From April 2008 all departmental heads will have a specific objective to meet Sustainable Operations on the Government Estate (SOGE) targets, against which their performance will be assessed
* A major Green Government IT programme will be launched in the summer - Another one?
* From 2010 all central Government departments will be included in a pioneering emissions trading scheme, the Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC), which will compel them to improve their energy efficiency. This mandatory emissions trading scheme will cover around 5000 public and private organisations, including government departments, retailers, banks and local authorities, which combined account for 10 per cent of the UK economy's emissions
* Action to achieve the work space efficiency standard of 12 square metres per FTE will be published in April 2008
* From this summer all new vehicles used by ministers and permanent secretaries (except a small number exempt for operational reasons) will have carbon emissions below 130g/km
* The use of bottled water for meetings and other official business is to be phased (er, can't they just, um, stop?) out across the whole government estate by the summer
In its response to the report, the Government accepts the need for more better and more accurate data against which the progress of departments can be measured. A major validation exercise to upgrade the quality of data provided to the SDC and the baselines used to assess performance has been undertaken in the past two months.
1. The 2007 Sustainable Development in Government (SDiG) report, published today, assesses the performance of central Government operations for 2006/07 against the targets of the Framework for Sustainable Operations on the Government Estate (SOGE).
2. The Government's formal response to the 2007 SDiG report can be found at
I must confess that I only just got around to this by virtue of rolling on the floor laughing silly at the notion of the creation of another 'Centre of Expertise', mind. That those highly talented, highly paid folk in various departments need yet more folk in new ones to help them all do, er, less, is choice.
Addendum 2: (Dave)
Ooooo-errr. A response from Hilary Benn, no less, to an earlier article claiming that our Gov was issuing 'misleading' figures on the overall UK's CO2 emissions. "It is nonsense". So that's OK then.
Monday, March 17, 2008
If we don't know what our emissions are now ....
... how the hell can we commit to set reduction targets?
This from Public Servant Daily defines the problem. It seems our Gov is consistently using two different measures for calculating CO2 emissions, neither of which agree with each other (by as much as 12%!!). Sooooo, OK, just how on earth are we supposed to achieve our targets then?
Oh well, they are only targets, aren't they. And targets, being entirely movable, malleable and stretchable, don't seem to be of much relevance (other than in self promotion and in the 'crowing' stakes) in the great Gov scheme of things nowadays.
I suppose if you are not even sure where the football pitch is, it doesn't really matter how much you move the goalposts.
This from Public Servant Daily defines the problem. It seems our Gov is consistently using two different measures for calculating CO2 emissions, neither of which agree with each other (by as much as 12%!!). Sooooo, OK, just how on earth are we supposed to achieve our targets then?
Oh well, they are only targets, aren't they. And targets, being entirely movable, malleable and stretchable, don't seem to be of much relevance (other than in self promotion and in the 'crowing' stakes) in the great Gov scheme of things nowadays.
I suppose if you are not even sure where the football pitch is, it doesn't really matter how much you move the goalposts.
It's jobs, Jim, but not as we know it.
And they are for the boys, aren't they: Job offer: CEO of Renewable Fuels Agency
Yup. Saw that.
And I wondered just how many folk there are already out there in quangoland, and being joined daily by those whose skills and experience make them worth the £100k of public funds (plus dental) to make vast differences, such as one can appreciate from 'Working closely with the Board and Government Departments to ensure that key targets and statutory obligations are met and exceeded.'
I feel better about my kids' futures already.
Yup. Saw that.
And I wondered just how many folk there are already out there in quangoland, and being joined daily by those whose skills and experience make them worth the £100k of public funds (plus dental) to make vast differences, such as one can appreciate from 'Working closely with the Board and Government Departments to ensure that key targets and statutory obligations are met and exceeded.'
I feel better about my kids' futures already.
PROF's POSER - Clinging to the right notion?
Smug alert!
As I write, I am tucking into the remnants of yesterday's Sunday lunch. Basically all the bits the boys didn't fancy, microwaved for 2 glorious minutes.
Now, here's the thing.
It was mircowaved in one of the containers that yesterday's pie came in. Makes sense.
Thing is, that combo lurked in the fridge (once it had cooled down outside first... I know my stuff. Well, some of it) overnight, sealed away under a wrapping of... clingfilm!
Now, I don't know about you, but the very idea of tearing of a strip of extra plastic these days was about as far from my mind as possible.
But my wife, bless her, gave me pause. Because, as she pointed out, I was going to transfer the left-overs from the tray to a plate or Tupperware, and in the latter case then tip onto a plate to heat up. And once all that was over, there was going to be some hot water washing required.
So my poser for the day is... which has the better enviROI? The consequences of 1 sqft of thin plastic (now in the recycling bin, where it will doubtless not be appreciated - see LABELLING), or the couple of cups of hot water to clean the crockery?
This oen is up there with storing PDFs vs. printing and deleting.
As I write, I am tucking into the remnants of yesterday's Sunday lunch. Basically all the bits the boys didn't fancy, microwaved for 2 glorious minutes.
Now, here's the thing.
It was mircowaved in one of the containers that yesterday's pie came in. Makes sense.
Thing is, that combo lurked in the fridge (once it had cooled down outside first... I know my stuff. Well, some of it) overnight, sealed away under a wrapping of... clingfilm!
Now, I don't know about you, but the very idea of tearing of a strip of extra plastic these days was about as far from my mind as possible.
But my wife, bless her, gave me pause. Because, as she pointed out, I was going to transfer the left-overs from the tray to a plate or Tupperware, and in the latter case then tip onto a plate to heat up. And once all that was over, there was going to be some hot water washing required.
So my poser for the day is... which has the better enviROI? The consequences of 1 sqft of thin plastic (now in the recycling bin, where it will doubtless not be appreciated - see LABELLING), or the couple of cups of hot water to clean the crockery?
This oen is up there with storing PDFs vs. printing and deleting.
EVENT - National Downshifting Week
No, not an attempt by Top Gear to squeeze a few more G's and reduce the mpg's by dropping a gear to take each corner sideways! Much more mellow... and green.
I came across Tracey Smith as a like-minded soul just trying to do her bit, and sharing stuff in a slightly more practical, less dogmatic way than most.
And we've stayed in touch off and on ever since. Well, thanks to my getting my digit out and sending off the newsletter, we ended up having a chat, one thing lead to another thing, and...
Well, for a start, she buttered me up big time by asking for a 'celebrity' (I'm gunning to get into the alphabet at all, but am happy and flattered and honoured to be in the company of some eco- 'A' listers there) quote for her site. Which I was happy to provide.
Then she interviewed me for her forthcoming book - 'The Book of Rubbish Ideas' - which we will of course be promoting all round when it hits the streets. With Junkk.com's strap line being 'Rubbish doesn't have to be a dirty word' there's a clear fit!
And finally, she has asked for a mention of her forthcoming 'National Downshifting Week' . From the lady herself:
'It's fast approaching the next National Downshifting Week, or should I say InterNational! Following on from polite and welcome pressure from friends and organisations in countries around the world, I decided to make this little awareness campaign fully inclusive, so that everyone who wants to can take part.
So what's the event all about? Well, in a nutshell, the simple living suggestions contained within the campaign can help you 'slow down and green up', live more sustainably and get a better work and life balance. It takes place between the 19th and 25th April and to take part, all you have to do is dip your toes into one of the ideas. If you like it and how you feel about having tried it, why not try another on day 2, day 3 and so on through the week.
IDW differs from a few other campaigns because there's not an ounce of guilt in sight! You are 'positively encouraged' to embrace living with less and to find your comfort level of downshift and every single change you make as a result of leaning towards the green will make an enormous collective difference, so believe that you're changing the world, because you are and join in with the 'thousands' of others who are focused on a bit of simple, green living this year too. Last year saw just under 11,000 people taking part worldwide - this year, with your help to spread the word too, it will easily top it, so take a look at the website and see what you fancy sinking your teeth into first!'
I came across Tracey Smith as a like-minded soul just trying to do her bit, and sharing stuff in a slightly more practical, less dogmatic way than most.
And we've stayed in touch off and on ever since. Well, thanks to my getting my digit out and sending off the newsletter, we ended up having a chat, one thing lead to another thing, and...
Well, for a start, she buttered me up big time by asking for a 'celebrity' (I'm gunning to get into the alphabet at all, but am happy and flattered and honoured to be in the company of some eco- 'A' listers there) quote for her site. Which I was happy to provide.
Then she interviewed me for her forthcoming book - 'The Book of Rubbish Ideas' - which we will of course be promoting all round when it hits the streets. With Junkk.com's strap line being 'Rubbish doesn't have to be a dirty word' there's a clear fit!
And finally, she has asked for a mention of her forthcoming 'National Downshifting Week' . From the lady herself:
'It's fast approaching the next National Downshifting Week, or should I say InterNational! Following on from polite and welcome pressure from friends and organisations in countries around the world, I decided to make this little awareness campaign fully inclusive, so that everyone who wants to can take part.
So what's the event all about? Well, in a nutshell, the simple living suggestions contained within the campaign can help you 'slow down and green up', live more sustainably and get a better work and life balance. It takes place between the 19th and 25th April and to take part, all you have to do is dip your toes into one of the ideas. If you like it and how you feel about having tried it, why not try another on day 2, day 3 and so on through the week.
IDW differs from a few other campaigns because there's not an ounce of guilt in sight! You are 'positively encouraged' to embrace living with less and to find your comfort level of downshift and every single change you make as a result of leaning towards the green will make an enormous collective difference, so believe that you're changing the world, because you are and join in with the 'thousands' of others who are focused on a bit of simple, green living this year too. Last year saw just under 11,000 people taking part worldwide - this year, with your help to spread the word too, it will easily top it, so take a look at the website and see what you fancy sinking your teeth into first!'
Alternative views
The Indy Letters page is always a worthy scope: 'Fuel cards' to fight climate change
Often good suggestions, pithily posed (for some reason they never print mine - even when i try a do pithy)
Take the one on fuel cards. Soul of reason. What's not to like?
Thing is, I stumble with the pure 'tax fuel' notion because it doesn't seem to take into account those who live and work where a car is needed a lot more than places where it is not.
It's a complex interaction, from manufacture through purchase to use and duration to disposal that cannot be reduced so simplistically. And then there are the related issues of alternatives. You simply can't equate an Islingtonista with a Prius for the weekend jaunt to Devon, with a Midlander who has a Fiesta for the daily 100 mile round trip to the factory.
Meanwhile, as I read on to the issue of watercress (next ban?)...
... watercress has been sourced from the US for more than 20 years, many of the farms being British owned. The watercress is air-freighted on passenger-scheduled airlines, so as to reduce carbon emissions.
Try as I might, I can't see how air-freighting something reduces carbon emissions. At least without some qualifier to explain the possible alternatives.
Often good suggestions, pithily posed (for some reason they never print mine - even when i try a do pithy)
Take the one on fuel cards. Soul of reason. What's not to like?
Thing is, I stumble with the pure 'tax fuel' notion because it doesn't seem to take into account those who live and work where a car is needed a lot more than places where it is not.
It's a complex interaction, from manufacture through purchase to use and duration to disposal that cannot be reduced so simplistically. And then there are the related issues of alternatives. You simply can't equate an Islingtonista with a Prius for the weekend jaunt to Devon, with a Midlander who has a Fiesta for the daily 100 mile round trip to the factory.
Meanwhile, as I read on to the issue of watercress (next ban?)...
... watercress has been sourced from the US for more than 20 years, many of the farms being British owned. The watercress is air-freighted on passenger-scheduled airlines, so as to reduce carbon emissions.
Try as I might, I can't see how air-freighting something reduces carbon emissions. At least without some qualifier to explain the possible alternatives.
Amazing what gets missed...
I quite like Raymond Snoddy of the BBC's Newswatch programme.
Even on the on-air show he does seem to try, and though the whole format (a 'mea culpa' stuck on at dawn on the weekend to 'atone' or 'explain' (though sulky editors saying they don't see what the fuss is about hardly counts as either) for high-profile boo-boos in the peak hours seems contrived at best, just to tick a 'we're listening' box. Few complaints get followed up and fade away.
But in print he seem even more diligent, though it now occurs to me that I thought BBC journos were not supposed to write outside of Auntie to avoid accusations of... well, anything.
Anyway, check out the bit halfway down his Indy column, entitled Emily gets short shrift
I'm sorry I missed it.
Because, speaking of being tucked away, as HRH might say, one's gob is smacked that stuff is been created and broadcast that purports to be 'based on' factual, when it is nothing of the sort. It's just agenda dressed up as news, or information.
And if they can do this here, well, New York, New York, they can do it anywhere.
But then, this is a Corporation where 'staff somehow also managed to mislay champagne worth a total of £818...'.
Now I see why my licence fee must go up.
Even on the on-air show he does seem to try, and though the whole format (a 'mea culpa' stuck on at dawn on the weekend to 'atone' or 'explain' (though sulky editors saying they don't see what the fuss is about hardly counts as either) for high-profile boo-boos in the peak hours seems contrived at best, just to tick a 'we're listening' box. Few complaints get followed up and fade away.
But in print he seem even more diligent, though it now occurs to me that I thought BBC journos were not supposed to write outside of Auntie to avoid accusations of... well, anything.
Anyway, check out the bit halfway down his Indy column, entitled Emily gets short shrift
I'm sorry I missed it.
Because, speaking of being tucked away, as HRH might say, one's gob is smacked that stuff is been created and broadcast that purports to be 'based on' factual, when it is nothing of the sort. It's just agenda dressed up as news, or information.
And if they can do this here, well, New York, New York, they can do it anywhere.
But then, this is a Corporation where 'staff somehow also managed to mislay champagne worth a total of £818...'.
Now I see why my licence fee must go up.
I wonder what road tax they pay?
There's a trend afoot, epitomised by this: Lexus hybrid woos Sainsbury's chief
First we had Sir Stuart Rose in his 6 litre hydrogen 7 Series Beemer, now this.
Now I'm all for encouraging better environmental practice, but our national broadcaster doing commercials (it was on the main page - doubtless to show how 'we' can stop glaciers melting) for retailers and makers of high end greener-ish luxury motors, sorry, limos, doesn't seem the best way to bring it home to the masses. At least, in ways that might be taken in the inspirational way that will doubtless be claimed.
I'm opening a book on Sir Terry or (actually the others don't seem to have the PR direct dial to the BBC these others do, so don't get on that often for their names to register) being covered roller-skating (£17.99 a pair, with 10% off to viewers) over the Atlantic to visit the US operation.
First we had Sir Stuart Rose in his 6 litre hydrogen 7 Series Beemer, now this.
Now I'm all for encouraging better environmental practice, but our national broadcaster doing commercials (it was on the main page - doubtless to show how 'we' can stop glaciers melting) for retailers and makers of high end greener-ish luxury motors, sorry, limos, doesn't seem the best way to bring it home to the masses. At least, in ways that might be taken in the inspirational way that will doubtless be claimed.
I'm opening a book on Sir Terry or (actually the others don't seem to have the PR direct dial to the BBC these others do, so don't get on that often for their names to register) being covered roller-skating (£17.99 a pair, with 10% off to viewers) over the Atlantic to visit the US operation.
...But some jobs are more important than others
Real Climate is a good source of factual information (if pretty high end) on climate change.
Though it's pretty safe to say that the overall thrust of the forum is that it is happening, for the worst... and that man is more than probably responsible.
But I am not so sure many favours are being done, message vs. messenger-wise, by pieces such as this: Venus Unveiled
Whilst not one (it's about another planet) of the more overt 'we're all doomed and you're to blame' efforts that can grace its pages, especially in rebuttal of more climate optimistic pronouncements, I just found the overall tone interesting... and unfortunate.
One has to accept that it is inevitable, makes sense and is perfectly fair enough that professionals in such industries need to travel to meet and exchange notes. However I do always note that there is a slight trend to viewing one's job in such areas as 'different' in the emissions consequences imposed than those of others taken to task. It's not what you do, but what you get paid to do (and say, in the case of many media) that matters.
However, I have to say this is the first time to see it top and tailed quite so overtly with a less than 'sensitive', nay, irony-free review of the holiday aspects in complement. I have often teased that many selectively-green commentators, who advocate bans for quite trivial enviROI+ measures at the drop of a hat, seem to be rather less self-searching when it comes to hitting the slopes of a weekend. But I have wondered if I was being quite fair as this seemed an extreme. Perhaps not.
Maybe the forum members might have some suggestions as possible causes of the weather patterns that lead to the lack of good snow on the trails?
Though it's pretty safe to say that the overall thrust of the forum is that it is happening, for the worst... and that man is more than probably responsible.
But I am not so sure many favours are being done, message vs. messenger-wise, by pieces such as this: Venus Unveiled
Whilst not one (it's about another planet) of the more overt 'we're all doomed and you're to blame' efforts that can grace its pages, especially in rebuttal of more climate optimistic pronouncements, I just found the overall tone interesting... and unfortunate.
One has to accept that it is inevitable, makes sense and is perfectly fair enough that professionals in such industries need to travel to meet and exchange notes. However I do always note that there is a slight trend to viewing one's job in such areas as 'different' in the emissions consequences imposed than those of others taken to task. It's not what you do, but what you get paid to do (and say, in the case of many media) that matters.
However, I have to say this is the first time to see it top and tailed quite so overtly with a less than 'sensitive', nay, irony-free review of the holiday aspects in complement. I have often teased that many selectively-green commentators, who advocate bans for quite trivial enviROI+ measures at the drop of a hat, seem to be rather less self-searching when it comes to hitting the slopes of a weekend. But I have wondered if I was being quite fair as this seemed an extreme. Perhaps not.
Maybe the forum members might have some suggestions as possible causes of the weather patterns that lead to the lack of good snow on the trails?
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Off his trolley
Experiment time!We're very lucky to live in the centre of town, certainly within walking distance of most things one might need to visit.
And despite the boys now walking to school most definitely without me in tow, I can still 'pop' out daily to get a bit of this and that whilst grabbing some exercise. So a lot of fresh shopping is possible, and I usually remember a couple of hemp bags to do it with.
However, Sunday is usually when I do a dump run, and en route back pop into the supermarket for the weekly 'big' shop. Things like 24-packs of Coke, 5 kg washing powders and a few dozen juices. These, frankly, are rather beyond my shoulder to bear.
So I decided on an experiment. And you see the main feature of this pictured.
Combining a full-size dustbin and golf trolley, I cobbled together about the biggest person-powered device possible to carry out the task in one shot. And off I went.
Now there were only a few minor issues en route. One was the fact that our pavements are woeful, so it was almost impossible to get over some hazards and though others. The other was that all out and about looked at me like I was barking. Fortunately I am long past worrying about my reputation.
The shopping was also not too bad, especially as I did not get turfed out by the staff. But a few more serious issues did become clear. Firstly, whilst loading it up as I went around made sense to ensure that what I bought would fit, it was hard not to crush things as I piled stuff in. And, most of all, I fear this still ended up only about 1/4 of my normal shopping at best. A car boot can hold a fair bit.
The trip back was OK, but I am glad I had the lid on as it started raining. Also that I was strong enough to manage the load.
Yes, it was worth it, and worthy to be sure. But I have to say that one must have sympathy with those (and I am sure there are many) who through salary or circumstance don't have the time or money to contemplate much beyond grabbing a quick weekly stop at the local supermarket in their cars to get all they can in one bulk, BOGOF shot.
Something those spouting off from under their green halos would do well to bear in mind before they come out with their next smug pronouncement on what 'we' 'should' or 'should not' need to do by way of conducting our lives.
Few enjoy the idyllic lifestyle espoused by a few, who pedal gaily in the sunshine past Jethro milking his cow en route to mid-morning Pilates prior to jetting off for a weekend's diving in Dubai, able to request a quick pint squeezed fresh into the jug in the wicker pannier to sip whilst lathering up the next big eco-issue.
But it's nice to know our family at least can lug a bit more than some home on Shank's Pony for when 'they' get round to banning cars to all but those who get their travel paid for on expenses (MPs, BBC journalists, NGO directors' wives, etc).
ps: D'Uh! Spellcheck is back and I hadn't twigged 'til now.
ADDENDUM 1:
Daily Telegraph - Rehabilitate the shopping trolley! - Saw it on the BBC news, and now here. Nice to see I am ahead of the curve. I think mine is more 'cool'. The downsides remain, sadly.
Budge it?
Hasn't been a green (or any) winner, really. Here's a pretty good set of views: Talk is cheap: Round-up of Budget comments
Observer - Green budget? Don't get me started
Indy - Attack on gas-guzzling cars and plastic bags fails to satisfy environmentalists
Observer - Green budget? Don't get me started
Indy - Attack on gas-guzzling cars and plastic bags fails to satisfy environmentalists
Well, fancy that. Few do.
Public finds green warnings a bore
Hard to blame 'em, really. Note the key qualifier: '..endless green talk that is never translated into action'. Quite.
I'd love to figure out what the TV area is of the 4% who live in caves and have heard nothing.
Hard to blame 'em, really. Note the key qualifier: '..endless green talk that is never translated into action'. Quite.
I'd love to figure out what the TV area is of the 4% who live in caves and have heard nothing.
IDEA - Clad all over
One doesn't really expect to find reuse ideas on a literary site, but hey: Robin Hood was Clad in Green
I have of course, gone hunting, successfully, I am glad to say... and show... and share.
I have a very deep green car
One of the greenest you can imagine.
However, that refers mainly to its colour. Though, by being a Volvo, when I bought it over a decade ago I do recall it having soem eco-bits even then.
Sadly, being petrol, its 1.9L engine is no longer that great on any front, but I can't afford a new one and will just have to soldier on keeping it as tippy-top with servicing as I can for safety, reliability and efficiency.
Ditto my wife's 1.4L Volks, which we inherited from my Mum.
So, come the budget, I was expecting some bad news and some good news. The Volvo would get upped for its 32mpg, but the Golf would go down for its 45+.
Er, no. Both go up. The Golf by a lot.
I am trying to get to grips with the logic of this on any basis, but especially environmental. It's all academic as we need (well, I guess she could get to work other ways, but there would be consequences we cannot afford. And I need an estate to shunt around the stand, for instance. No excuses, but fair explanations) them. So all stays the same, but a load more money from us goes... where? This is futher screwed up governemnt par excellence.
Especially as, to quote the Taxpayer's Alliance: 'The notoriously un-green Hummer incurs a rise of 14%, whereas the humble Nissan Micra will rise up to 24%. That's hardly a downsizing message.' Quite.
However, that refers mainly to its colour. Though, by being a Volvo, when I bought it over a decade ago I do recall it having soem eco-bits even then.
Sadly, being petrol, its 1.9L engine is no longer that great on any front, but I can't afford a new one and will just have to soldier on keeping it as tippy-top with servicing as I can for safety, reliability and efficiency.
Ditto my wife's 1.4L Volks, which we inherited from my Mum.
So, come the budget, I was expecting some bad news and some good news. The Volvo would get upped for its 32mpg, but the Golf would go down for its 45+.
Er, no. Both go up. The Golf by a lot.
I am trying to get to grips with the logic of this on any basis, but especially environmental. It's all academic as we need (well, I guess she could get to work other ways, but there would be consequences we cannot afford. And I need an estate to shunt around the stand, for instance. No excuses, but fair explanations) them. So all stays the same, but a load more money from us goes... where? This is futher screwed up governemnt par excellence.
Especially as, to quote the Taxpayer's Alliance: 'The notoriously un-green Hummer incurs a rise of 14%, whereas the humble Nissan Micra will rise up to 24%. That's hardly a downsizing message.' Quite.
You've got to hand it to him
This is from the Dilbert Blog, by Scott Adams : On the Other Hand
Worth a read, whether you agree or not, to get a worthwhile set of extra views upon which to make a decsion. Which is kinda his point.
And at least I now know what 'cognitive dissonance' is.
And just look at the feedback!
Worth a read, whether you agree or not, to get a worthwhile set of extra views upon which to make a decsion. Which is kinda his point.
And at least I now know what 'cognitive dissonance' is.
And just look at the feedback!
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Playing with words. And fire?
I like writing. And I love what you can conjure up with words. So I am always interested in learning more on using them. Hence I subscribe to a nice little site called Daily Writing Tips.
You do learn a lot. Usually it's more factual stuff but, in this case, they delved into an area more concerned with the writer's lot: telecommuting.
And my interest was further piqued by the point made about the environmental advantages conferred.
However, as it is a rather critical aspect of the way these issues get discussed, explained, etc, I rather dangerously (these guys are literature experts) decided to pose a question and offer a thought as something didn't read right:
‘Global warming is a benefactor of telecommuting!’
Just chewing this over and wondering (which is why I read and value the tips posted), but isn’t it more the other way round: that ‘telecommuting is a benefactor to global warming mitigation’?
I do believe that ‘global warming’ (though I prefer the longer, but perhaps more accurate ‘probably man-worsened climate change’, as often the negative effects of climate change can result in colder conditions. And there is also still some credible debate on whether ‘man’ is responsible exclusively, though we sure are not helping anything much) is not a good thing, and hence for preference should be in some way dealt with through positive environmental actions on our parts. Hence the value of some qualifying descriptor.
So, might one suggest:
‘Reduced global warming is another beneficial result (or can a process be a beneficary?) of telecommuting!’
Just playing with the words. What is for sure is that reducing our need and/or desire to travel will certainly go a long way in helping lower our negative environmental impacts!
I just hope I was correct or I am going to get soooo flamed!
You do learn a lot. Usually it's more factual stuff but, in this case, they delved into an area more concerned with the writer's lot: telecommuting.
And my interest was further piqued by the point made about the environmental advantages conferred.
However, as it is a rather critical aspect of the way these issues get discussed, explained, etc, I rather dangerously (these guys are literature experts) decided to pose a question and offer a thought as something didn't read right:
‘Global warming is a benefactor of telecommuting!’
Just chewing this over and wondering (which is why I read and value the tips posted), but isn’t it more the other way round: that ‘telecommuting is a benefactor to global warming mitigation’?
I do believe that ‘global warming’ (though I prefer the longer, but perhaps more accurate ‘probably man-worsened climate change’, as often the negative effects of climate change can result in colder conditions. And there is also still some credible debate on whether ‘man’ is responsible exclusively, though we sure are not helping anything much) is not a good thing, and hence for preference should be in some way dealt with through positive environmental actions on our parts. Hence the value of some qualifying descriptor.
So, might one suggest:
‘Reduced global warming is another beneficial result (or can a process be a beneficary?) of telecommuting!’
Just playing with the words. What is for sure is that reducing our need and/or desire to travel will certainly go a long way in helping lower our negative environmental impacts!
I just hope I was correct or I am going to get soooo flamed!
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