COMPETITION - Innovative Uses of Waste Material

COMPETITION - 

Oops. I haven't posted (FaceBook yes, so if not signed up, get on down there!) in a loooong while. Sorry. This looks a worthy revisit.

WHEN: Now to March 16

WHAT: Waste Management World Big Picture Contest

WHAT... MORE?: Seems pretty straighforward. Submit pictures of reuse ideas, art, etc.

HOW MUCH: Looks free, just as we like it. Though the prize seems more to err on glory, so fair enough.

URL: http://www.waste-management-world.com/big-picture-contest.html

COMMENTS: Not many entries thus far, so may be worth a punt. I may pop in a few of our greatest hits if only to get noticed over the pond.

COMPETITION - Get creative with old plastic Coca-Cola bottles

COMPETITION

PR is a funny game. Seems every day I get an invitation to try out some 5* eco resort in Peru which, while nice, may just cross a few ethical boundaries I may have on enviROI grounds.

Yet a genuine, local, consumer reuse story I have to stumble across in, of all things, a trade website!

Whatever tracky things the PR industry uses need a tweak.

WHEN: Six weeks, from now to Sept 30.

WHAT: Get creative with old plastic Coca-Cola bottles

WHAT... MORE?: The http://www.dontwastecreate.co.uk/ site seems a bit of a zoo, so here from the original summary:

The online initiative, in collaboration with supermarket Sainsbury’s, will “encourage consumers to use their waste packaging at home in a fun and useful way, while also pledging to recycle”.

Parents will be asked to submit recycling ‘pledges’ – such as turning used bottles into products such as bottle bird-feeders or self-watering bottle plant pots – and those taking part will receive money-off vouchers for CCE products and the chance to win a ‘glamping’ holiday in France.

“Through utilising an accessible online mechanic, the campaign helps us to reach a wide audience, allowing us to communicate to customers across the UK how easy it is for them to play their part.”

I will have to ponder that last paragraph a while to grasp what it means. Maybe I need a small child to translate.

HOW MUCH: Free! As always, just as we like it. 

URL: http://www.dontwastecreate.co.uk/

COMMENTS: It will probably freak them out that to 'How often would you say you recycle in the home?' I opted for 'Never' because, of course, we don't recycle, we reuse.

And, immodestly, most ideas already on Junkk.com using their stuff are a whole lot better than what they are putting up in example.

Also, as a bit of geeky web input, it's rather disconcerting to fill it all out, hit 'Pledge' and get nothing other than a return to the blank form. I'm also not sure what I downloaded from the ideas button, as nothing happened bar getting an instruction PDF.

Still, for my name & email, a chance at a glamping holiday may be worth it still.

I wonder how sincere they are about reuse, though?

COMPETITION - Waste•smART – creative competition

COMPETITION

WHEN: The deadline for submissions is 30 September 2013 at 12:00 Central European Time

WHAT: What does waste look like? Photo, cartoon and video competition

WHAT... MORE?: From the site:

Waste•smART is a new competition from the EEA, inviting entries in three categories – photography, cartoons and short films. The best entry in each category will win € 500, and there will be a further € 500 ‘youth prize’, given to the best entry from someone born between 1989 and 1995. The competition is open to citizens of the all EEA member and cooperating countries. All participants must be 18 or older.

Entries could touch on a variety of themes. For example, your entry could be a photograph illustrating wasted food, construction waste, landfills, and recycling. Or perhaps you have an idea for a cartoon showing how we can better reduce, re-use or recycle waste. If you are a filmmaker, you could make a video about how waste policy could be improved, or the resources and energy needed to maintain wasteful lifestyles. However, these are just a few ideas, entrants are encouraged to come up with their own angle.

HOW MUCH: Free! Just as we like it. Do check the rules

URL: http://www.eea.europa.eu/highlights/what-does-waste-look-like?

COMMENTS: Seems pretty clear cut and I'm happy to share. Mind you, as a cartoonist, photographer and even short videographer there is the temptation to enter too... and this as always rather increases the competition! 

So, if you win and beat me out... do at least doff a hat to Junkk.com at the awards! Good luck.

COMPETITION - SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING CHALLENGE

COMPETITION

WHEN: Open-ended
WHAT: SUSTAINABLE PACKAGING CHALLENGE
WHAT... MORE?: From the site:

Do you have an idea for a new type of packaging with paper, pulp or cardboard as the material used? Maybe an idea on how we can be smarter at handling packaging? We want you to put your idea to the test in our Sustainable Packaging challenge, the first open innovation challenge in the Wood for Sweden arena.

Several large companies in the paper and packaging industry in Sweden are supporting the challenge and they want to hear your ideas. The best ideas are presented to a jury and will be given the opportunity to be presented to the market. If your idea wins, it will enter the development process and you might one day see it in regular use.

Although Swedish-based, we have been assured the contest is open to anyone and everyone no matter where they live, and the commitment to creating an English language version now confirms this.

HOW MUCH: Free! Just as we like it*
URL: http://idemotorn.se/english
COMMENTS: *Note the FAQ/rules, especially bearing in mind IP issues. This will be open-source, so any patents, etc will be forfeit. There is a chance of winning an iPad, but a great idea can of course lead to a lot more than that.

Can stand the competition...

... plus bottles, jars, cartons, etc.

On matters triple bottom line, I noticed this story and asked for the Press Release (much too lazy to rejig much as it doesn't need it). Seems some can make green out of, well... green:

‘Innocent’ named as most admired brand for its environmental approach to packaging

Packaging professionals have named ‘Innocent’ their most admired brand for its environmental approach to packaging according to a new survey released today.

The survey, put together by packaging trade show specialist’s easyFairs, questioned 289 packaging professionals, asking them a number of questions, of which one was to openly name a brand that they really admired for its green packaging approach. In response 10% suggested the ‘Innocent’ brand, followed by ‘Marks & Spencer’ (7%) and ‘Kenco’ (5%).

Matt Benyon, managing director at easyFairs UK and Ireland comments: “Innocent have made tremendous steps over the last few years in making their packaging better for the environment, from using food grade recycled plastic in their bottles, to making their cartons from 100% Forest Stewardship Council certified material. They also have a very strong sustainable packaging policy in place.”

He continues: “What impresses me most, is that we asked all those surveyed to name any brand they like, so to have 10% come back saying ‘Innocent’ is quite amazing, and just shows how Innocent get things right in not only the green packaging side of things, but conveying their green message across to its peers and consumers. A lot of companies are doing great things out there, just they don’t tell us, which is a real shame.”

Indeed, over a quarter (27%) surveyed, admitted that they were doing lots when it comes to environmental packaging but not shouting about it.

However, when asked what is driving their packaging decisions at the moment, top of the list was cost, with a huge 69% stating this. Over half (58%) also said that the tougher economic climate means they are less likely to introduce more environmentally sound packaging unless it saves them money as well.

This shows that there is still a battle between keeping costs to a minimum and improving environmental performance of packaging for most professionals working in the industry.

Matt explains: “Our survey showed that 46% are interested in greener materials, but it’s paying that bit extra for these materials that is the problem. It’s that catch 22, companies need to keep costs down, but also understand the importance of having a proactive approach to environmental packaging. At the moment too many companies are still afraid to take that risk to switch to a greener solution, unless it costs them less, which in most cases is unlikely. We all know that Innocent is not the cheapest of products on the market, but it has educated the market place on environmental issues and how purchasing their products can help, which is why they have become so successful.”

Without a doubt, and issues that many professionals identify and agree with. For example over a third (35%) said that it is the brand owner’s responsibility to educate consumers on the positive effect that environmental packaging has. 75% of those surveyed also admitted that it is the customer who is driving them to improve their green packaging and 66% said that their environmental performance was important to their consumers of their products. It’s just delivering at a cost that works for them.

Matt comments: “I do think we’ve come along way, and packaging professionals are doing a lot more than they ever have done compared to previous years to meet the ‘green’ demand from consumers. For example, we asked our respondents to be truly frank, and rate on a scale whether they could be doing any more to reduce the environment impact of their packaging, where 10 meant they couldn’t be doing anything more. 65% wrote down either 7 or above, which is very promising.”

Elsewhere the survey also showed that the toy industry is the most guilty of over-packaging, with 26% thinking this. Whilst 61% thought that the cosmetics/perfumery/toiletries industries were the most innovative when it comes to packaging.

Now this is all very interesting, given Junkk.com's ongoing efforts to promote RE:tie, especially given the latter's latest research to show that there are ways that consumer can be delivered eco-innovation that also translates into sales. Extra and/or sucking share from competitors.

By sheer coincidence, Innocent, or at least one of its founders, has cropped up today with a competition we have been invited to enter: BBC's 'Be Your Own Boss'

Now, I have entered too (sadly Innocent have shown no interest in RE:tie, despite its obvious relevance to their brand and environmental commitments, so no point rehashing that route. Luckily, Yoda-like, 'there is another') so if, in sharing this you enter and kick me off... at least put in a good word!

COMPETITION - Lufthansa Air Cargo Innovation Contest

Oo-er, it's been a while.

Not strictly reuse-related (but it could be), but an opportunity to get a prize for a nice eco-idea*:

COMPETITION

WHEN: The contest is accepting proposals through December 19, 2011.
WHAT: Lufthansa Cargo Looking for Good Green Ideas -  Air Cargo Innovation Contest
WHAT... MORE?: From the PR blurb:


Lufthansa Cargo is holding a contest inviting people to use their imagination and present their “Green Solutions” and ideas for “Add-On Services” to help reduce the cargo company’s environmental impact and improve their services.



Lufthansa Cargo will award three winners with a trip to Frankfurt, Germany where they will get to present their proposals to engineers and management and disuss how their ideas may be implemented.  Winners will also receive flight training with a Lufthansa Cargo Flight Captain and up to 25,000 Miles and More Miles. In addition, a Most Valuable Participant will be awarded 25,000 Miles and More Miles, based on activity in the contest, quality of contributions and support for other members.



Ideas are posted online where people can review and comment openly.  Proposals can cover any aspect within the Lufthansa Air Cargo Supply Chain (Sales, Handling, Transport, Customer Service) that fall within the categories of Green Solutions and/or Add On Services.  Candidates get the opportunity to receive feedback and exposure from people all over the world.

The contest is open to anyone and everyone no matter where they live.
HOW MUCH: Free! Just as we like it
URL: http://innovation.lufthansa-cargo.com
COMMENTS: Actually a nice contest site set up.

*However, note the rules, especially regarding IP: 'By entering the Competition, participants irrevocably and unconditionally assign, to the extent legally possible, to LUFTHANSA CARGO any and all intellectual property rights'

COMPETITION - myplasticidea.co.uk

A great lead kindly provided by Junkeeter Anita of Writing Services:

COMPETITION

WHEN: Entry D/L Jan 22 2011
WHAT: From their blurb:

This competition is aimed at creatives and students of all ages who are resident in the UK. Using Priplak polypropylene you are asked to create a product, an innovative packaging solution or a promotional incentive. Part of the brief is to think about re-usability, durability, multi-usage and multi-functional.

The designs may be an innovative solution to an existing product or common everyday item, but will be judged on creativity, originality, and functionality, cost effectiveness and use of the material.

WHAT... MORE?:

There will be three categories: My Plastic ‘Packaging’ Idea, My Plastic ‘Product’ Idea and My Plastic ‘Incentive/Promotional’ Idea. First prize for each category is £500 cash and the overall winner will receive an additional £500. Shortlisted finalists will get showcased at an exhibition in May in front of potential clients. In addition, the organisers will be scanning all entries looking for potential opportunities for products or incentives to be developed to market on a royalty arrangement basis.

HOW MUCH: My fave... no mention of money!
URL: http://www.myplasticidea.co.uk/
COMMENTS: Possibly somewhat restricted by having to focus on reuse (and sussing out the plastic specified in the brief), we will for sure be having a go here. But if you do enter via us telling you... and win... make sure to give us a mention at least:)

COMPETITION - Sustainability Now Social Media Awards

COMPETITION

WHEN: Deadline Friday 5th November
WHAT: Sustainability Now Social Media Awards
WHAT... MORE?: Their blurb:

The Sustainability Now Social Media Awards will highlight the very best social media focusing on the creation and sustainability of a green built environment. We’re looking to highlight the most engaging, informative, innovative or simply entertaining sustainability based social media, wherever it may be found.

The theme of the awards is sustainability, but this doesn’t mean it has to be the main focus of these social media efforts; it could be a recurring element among many different discussion areas, or a single tweet, an individual blog post, or the primary subject matter.

The categories:

We have seven categories available for the awards this year. These are open to individuals as well as branded company accounts. Entries and nominations for the Awards close on Friday 5th November.

Nominate yourself or your company in 350 words or less for any of the following categories

Best social media community group
Best Tweeter
Best Blogger
Best brand social media use
Best social media individual

HOW MUCH: Don't see a fee, so 'Weeeeeee!'
URL: http://www.ukvirtualevents.com/virtual-events/sustainability-now/social-media-awards/
COMMENTS: Now, who do we know worthy...:)

COMPETITION - Letswasteless.com

Actually, it's a competition to intro a new website.

http://www.letswasteless.com/cms/community/competition.aspx

And it's one in our 'hood - Herefordshire & surrounds.

Not sure how well populated it is, as a lot of folk (including Junkk.com) are not included who could/should be), so it's also an opportunity to bring 'em up to speed.

Tell 'em Junkk.com sent you. Maybe they'll realise we're here... and have been for a while.

And here to help:)

COMPETITION - Virgin - Pitch.tv - @richardbranson

@richardbranson

COMPETITION(ish)

WHEN: Ongoing
WHAT: Virgin Pitch.tv
WHAT... MORE?:
HOW MUCH: Free
URL: http://www.virgin.com/richard-branson/blog/calling-all-entrepreneurs-take-part-in-pitchtv
COMMENTS: Again, more of an opportunity to gain PR/interest/investment. But... why not? It isn't like many airborne captains of industry are flying BA at the moment

COMPETITION - Sustainable Brands innovation Open

COMPETITION(ish)

WHEN: Deadline May 1
WHAT: Sustainable Brands innovation Open
WHAT... MORE?: From their blurb:

Sustainable Brands Innovation Open (SB Innovation Open) is not another Clean Tech event. This new venture showcase is focused on identifying and promoting innovative new consumer brands, AND ventures that support existing corporations in achieving their sustainable brand innovation goals.

Submissions will be considered in two categories: Idea Stage – must have a complete business plan and no more than $100k in invested friends and family money, or Early Venture Stage – must have no more than $1M in external capital invested.

HOW MUCH: Free!
URL: http://www.sustainablelifemedia.com/events/sb10/innovation-open
COMMENTS: Might be US-only. More an investment doo-dad. Might pass here, but still in the pile.

COMPETITION - Barclays - 'Take one smal step'

COMPETITION

WHEN: Deadline 16 May
WHAT: Barclays Take One Small Step
WHAT... MORE?: From their blurb:

The aim of the Barclays Business Take One Small Step Competition is to find people with ambition, passion and, most importantly, a great business idea.

The brief is open — it could be a lifelong ambition or a recent brainwave. It could be a personal experience or a distant dream. Even a revolutionary concept that changes the world. It’s an open invitation and anyone with a great business idea and the drive to make it happen could win.

Got a great business idea? From start-ups to existing businesses, anyone can pitch for the chance to turn a great idea into an even better reality.
Want to show your support? Do your bit for businesses. Get behind the competition and prepare to vote for your favourite idea.

£50k in the pot. That hires a lot of folk to help me upload such as this in future:) Leaving me free to go off and crank eyebrows, test enviROIs and invent odd stuff.

HOW MUCH: Free!!!!!
URL: https://www.takeonesmallstep.co.uk/
COMMENTS: See you at the awards:) And if you are not entering... vote for us!

COMPETITION - M&S - 'Your Green Idea' - @marksandspencer

@marksandspencer

Sorry about sticking that @ thing in the Title and first line, but I am testing a plan to see if I can make this also of more use once the blog post gets rewteeted on twitter. Not sure how it pops up.

Anyway, without further ado (bar acknowledging that, like the No 38 bus, you get nothing for ages then a ton at once), here we go...

COMPETITION

WHEN: Deadline May 16
WHAT: Your Green Idea
WHAT... MORE?: from their blurb:

Think green, and think big. Is it something that could change the way our customers shop with us for the better?

If your brainwave is picked as the ultimate green idea it could be seen by 21 million people, every week at over 700 M&S stores. And, what's more, you could win £100,000 for your favourite organisation to spend on its green initiative. It could be for a school, local community project, a small business or charity... it's up to you.

HOW MUCH: How we like it: free
URL: http://www.yourgreenidea.co.uk/?extid=fb09
COMMENTS: Good luck. But we are pitching here too, so may the best reuse website, second use product design, etc...win. And if we don't, and you found out about it here, mention us at the awards ceremony!

COMPETITION - 'Here's One I RE:made Earlier'

3rd TIME'S A CHARM?

Crossing everything, after almost a month of the 'wrong kind of snow' (ie: several feet deep either here or there, or on both) we hope at long last to soon be seeing the bench arrive in Ross On Wye.

As the last of the snow melts away, this Friday (30th Jan, 2010), there will be a lunchtime photocall for the press as BRP hands over the donated prize bench to local dignitaries/council representative.

STOP PRESS!

22/12/200

And then, as can so always be the way, it gets a little less better.

STOP PRESS is apt, as that is what I had to do in a mad-panic yesterday morning. Sadly our co-hero (the bench) was stuck in a snowdrift in Yorkshire, so we had to call off the photocall. And that was a lot of phoning around, as many folk were due to attend from far and wide as the story was one the media seemed to like the sound of.

Won't say it was not a big disappointment.

However, the good news is that all (bar one... apparently the big producer in Brum didn't think it a 'hot' enough story so they were not coming anyway, so muhr) I contacted were really great about it, very understanding and, best of all, keen to be invited back next year for what is still a great, heart warming story.

Just not one to op of the year, but now one to kick of 2010 in high spirits.

One door closes...:)

18/12/2009

It just gets better.

The council(s) (there are actually some details to iron out between town and county) are more than happy to accept the kind donation by these inspirational youngsters.

Better yet, the sponsors are so inspired that they are going to bring the bench down for a handover photocall in the town centre this Monday.... weather cooperating. They were going to come today but are snowed in! But they are confident they can get here in good time if they leave at crack of dawn for lunchtime.

The mayor, judges and other representatives (of council, kids, etc) will be there to receive it, and with luck it will be covered by local and possibly even regional media.

It is, after all, a very festive feelgood story of giving for this time of year.

It has certainly made my Christmas.

14/12/2009

WE HAVE OUR FINAL, AND GRAND... WINNER.... S!!!!!!!

Well, the weekend has at last seen the final winner presented.

However, there was a development.

I was contacted by the person who submitted the winning entry.

But, it's more of a 'they'.

Some students from a local (to Ross-on-Wye, who found out about the competition via all the PR I engaged in subsequently to drive awareness - even as an international media Junkk.com has a very high sign-up locally due to my efforts) school have got in touch to say it was actually a joint effort.

I had a few exchanges, and we've agreed that as the prize cannot be split, and in any case it's not really something they could use or want to have, they are happy to donate it to a good cause.

As it's all a bit unusual they want to remain anonymous but would like it to be a gift from the kids to the community to show they do care about the future and are not all hanging about at street corners doing nothing (actually not quite what they said, but I think this sums it up best).

The organisers and sponsors are all cool on the notion.

I have now contacted the town council to see if this is possible, and the signs are positive and wheels are in motion.

I think it is the best solution and reflects well all round, being a lovely way to round up the competition, and the year, at this festive time of giving.

As to the runner-up prizes, the organisers have now been provided with the addresses of these winners, and will be arranging delivery with the sponsors asap.

********* Previously********

This just in: Blog post from prize sponsor

Wow, is the internet quick or what?

We have already been contacted by all our runner up winners. Lovely ladies, too.

No word yet from our grand prize winner. Hope they are 'on line' over the next few days to learn the good news. One 'quirk' of our system is that it is difficult, if not impossible to actually trace folk, even from our admin system. All we have is usernames and they are kept in a separate log to actual names and emails. And if someone changes their e-mail... that's it:(

Latest In:

It took a while, but at long last the judges were convened recently to review the entries.

At least that gave me an opportunity to make some of the entries up to help 'visualise', especially for those where no pictures were provided.

I had to excuse myself as a judge, and was not present during the judging.

There were two who kindly offered their services.

Dennis Humble of EnviroAbility, both man and organisation highly awarded in the country in the field of just about re:verything

Neil Carroll is a renowned creative force locally, nationally and indeed internationally, having been chosen as the main visual artist to represent Wales at The Festival Interceltique

They were asked to consider the entries as follows:

Marks out of 10 for creativity (is this an inspired reuse of plastic?)

Marks out of 10 for consumer appeal (will the public go... yeah... I'd do that!)

Marks out of 10 for eco-impact (will it move stop some plastic hitting the bin and/or landfill)

Fortunately, there were no 'ties'. As no kids' entries were submitted we added another adult to the list.

Runners up (in no order) were:

Houseofstrauss - slug collar - http://www.junkk.com/junkkdetail.asp?slevel=0z622&parent_id=622&renleewtsapf=1931

swirlyarts - earrings - http://www.junkk.com/junkkdetail.asp?slevel=0z622&parent_id=622&renleewtsapf=1917

bveacoker - bathroom rubbish bin - http://www.junkk.com/junkkdetail.asp?slevel=0z622z1080&parent_id=1080&renleewtsapf=1919

And the grand prize winner was:

junkktween1 - cup stack - http://www.junkk.com/Editidea.asp?slevel=0&parent_id=0&EditID=1928

The judges were impressed with the standard of entries, especially appreciating how difficult it is to 'see' what can be done with 'junk' that most people see only as good for the bin... and landfill.

All were simple, but still effective. And, in a one case, very stylish.

The grand prize winner was chosen for its high marks across all the criteria. Said the judges: 'This is an idea we can see many people take advantage of, and benefiting from, especially where space is tight, for instance in flats, caravans or boats'.

Junkk.com will be contacting the winners directly to get addresses to send the prizes to, but also via here and the newsletter, as all we have is usernames and a data protected internal messaging system!

Hope no one has changed their emails in the interim.

*******

28/09 - LAST WEEK!!!!!!!!!!!!

Had to arrive eventually. And it is time to reward the patience, and ideas of those who did enter.

11/08 - Final, that's it, there will be no more, no, I'm serious.... extension

Due to a confluence of circumstances, ranging from Junkk.com shutting down for summer break for a few weeks, to the fact that the UK has evidently been on holiday since June anyway, I am extending the deadline one last time to include September. Back to work, back to school, back in the shed. Plus a final month to really plug it all over the shop. There have been some goodies, but I know there are more! Get thinking... and applying.

24/07 - New Judges Please -

In addition, whilst staying on as organiser/Chairman of the judging committee, I am standing down as a judge. This is because, thanks to some promotions in our local media and via the Junkk.com newsletter, I may be familiar with the User Names some of the possible entrants inspired to take part, from such as the Forum, etc.

05/07

Due to ever popular demand (and the fact that, while there are a couple of nifty ideas in now, we really are still hoping to inspire a few more to justify those great prizes, especially as some great ones are still coming in. Plus, having promoted it, some media are only now mentioning it), with the agreement of the organisers and sponsors, the competition entry deadline has now been extended again to the end of Aug. This will also allow uploaders to use the new, easier upload features we have now active.

08/05

Superceding the PDF (which I'll leave here as an option for those so formatically disposed), I am happy to post here the URL to the online insert page turner. I am actually getting quite impressed with these. I am sure there are server farm 'leccy/heat consequences, but I presume there to be eco advantages too.

06/05

After a brief flurry sign-ups now quieter. May need to make it clearer that you don't need to submit an idea to sign up to the site and roam [Ed - Done - hope it's not too late!]

Here's a URL to the insert PDF. Link to online page-turner coming. Check out the smoothie on p12!

Previous Post (05/05 6.10am)

And today is the day.

Here's what it is all about.

Here's how we launched it with the latest newsletter.

BBC News doing a piece on social networking. By using it I don't have a good sense of my identity. Apparently:(

That's a pity, as I'm off now to add updates to FaceBook, twitter, etc. Which will add a lot more value I'd have thought.

Off soon to the newsagents to buy my first copy of the paper with the insert in.

[In a deep voice] 'Previously, on Junkk.com'
(pondering reversing updates newest at the top this way in future):

Sorry this is blank for now.

Next week all will be revealed.

Watch this space... seriously:)

Neee...Oh.... Daaaaaad!

A while ago a writing competition was posted.

This is my entry:

To : My sons, as you approach adulthood

My Dear Sons,

I have always told you that the most we can expect is that you do your best, for all, and in support of all the right reasons.

What I have before now neglected to add was that you must never stop doing it. Follow those two principles and while you may never get rich monetarily, at the very least you will find a sense of purpose and rewards in other ways with, if you are lucky, the bonus of a legacy to be proud of.

But you only have one life, so don’t beat yourselves up on it; live it to the full as best you can, whilst you try and DO the best you can.

Now considering the topic theme I would like… need to make an apology. Not for anything I have done (though there are many things for which I am sure I should), but I am sorry to have been part, so far, of an ongoing failure.

It is the failure of my generation, plus one at least above (and a few below) to have sensibly managed very well this precious planet that all our futures so depend upon.

At one time I could offer the reason, if not excuse, of ignorance, and even less credibly, being ‘too busy’. This can no longer be true, of me or any in a position to effect necessary changes; from voters to those in, or seeking power with their blessing. Plus all those who also are attached to and can influence the process of local, national and global governance. Media, activists, etc. You know who your are.

Where the message is so key, so many messengers, often self-appointed, have failed with the importance of getting it through. Yet still so few seem able, or willing, to look inward and cease blaming others for failing to understand, but instead to hold them…ourselves to account for being so poor at explanation and/or persuasion.

It’s not enough to believe, you need also to convince by the power and skill of argument. Turning incomprehension or the shake of a head into a nod is an art, and a very rewarding one to cultivate. Do it well and you not only create converts; you make new friends. Always a plus.

Sadly, despite my best efforts at self-education, I must confess to still remaining confused on much of what to do for the best. And I fear the human condition, and all its manifestations, today, are simply too much for one person or even ‘leaders’ to get fully to grips with global issues sensibly in any form to simply hand me the answers on a platter. I don’t think most 'know', or can 'know' either. There is a strong case for admitting ignorance, so long as you show commitment to filling that gap quickly.

All I am aware of is that there is much that seems very broken, and hence needs fixing. And that we as individuals are well equipped in this regard, with our minds and our hands, to tackle the challenges ahead.

I give my pledge therefore to do my best to help support all laudable aims based upon just causes. It is all I can do to live up to what I have tried to inspire in you. And that is to do our best to spare humanity going to waste.

I might fail, at least in my lifetime. I hope not. But at least I will know I tried. So I invite you to join me. Always follow the positive path if you can, but don’t be afraid, especially of outside and especially peer pressure, to challenge what you feel is wrong. And remember, a question is not a threat (or should not be) if it invites an answer that moves the discussion along. Stay true to your instincts, but never be too proud to find out more, or admit error… and then be quick to change. And evolve. Seek to inspire rather than suppress; you may win arguments but hearts and minds can be much more sensitive, and hence of great value to win on side. And don’t be afraid to lose, so long as it has been for the right reasons. That said, see merit, and no shame in sticking to your guns to gain victory. People love, and support winners. And we all need the support of those around us.

Most of all, whilst there can and will be valleys to balance the peaks, only do what you do if you truly enjoy it. Bitterness or frustration are poor companions on the road to success. And while I do no decry words alone (this is a letter after all), never forget the value of setting examples, especially through DOING. The result of the smallest effort in this regard can place you way ahead and above the loftiest pronouncement or claim, no matter how high the author’s perceived pedestal.

If nothing else, this notion is something, I hope of value, that I can give to you now: not just to hope, but to try as best you can to make the world a better place.

If we do, others might. And in banding together we can make anything happen. Who knows, this may even register with a few in power too, if enough of us walk the walk as well as expecting that we all talk sense, and with honesty.

Never miss the opportunity to take pause to listen... every step of the way. Broadcast-only devices make poor communicators.

Oh, and if you can get to wangle decent careers to support you families whilst doing all that, your Mum says she will be thrilled to.

With love,

Dad.

Not sure I dare show it to the little sods yet, mind. Their new XBox game has just arrived.

COMPETITION - AltUse Packaging Promo

COMPETITION

WHEN: Now to 10 Feb, it looks... Correction: 2 Oct! that US/UK thing.
WHAT: A RE:use blog is offering munny for the best, and most ideas.
WHAT... MORE?: Not really. As the sign-up is passworded, can't access. It's on the Home Page.
HOW MUCH: Free, I hope.
URL: http://www.altuse.com/index.php?index=1
COMMENTS: Now, how many can I enter? And... will non-US be accepted? Hey-ho. but at least all you lovely US sign-ups are now vindicated:)

COMPETITION - Offoo Laureate

COMPETITION

WHEN: Deadline 31 December 2009
WHAT: Ooffoo Laureate Annual Writing Competition 2010
WHAT... MORE?: from the blurb: 'looking for an inspiring letter that you would write to a world leader or somebody of global or significant influence. The award will go to the person who is judged to have written the most impressive and inspiring letter - one that offers hope or encouragement and is aimed at helping to change things for the better. '
HOW MUCH: My favourite... FREE! For writing a letter!
URL: http://www.ooffoo.com/listing/Ooffoo-Laureate-Annual-Writing-Competition-2010.aspx
COMMENTS: Tempted to enter myself, as an opinionated sod, but... as a pro writer, what if I end up last? Er... £1000 prize swings it.

COMPETITION - iawards 09

COMPETITION

WHEN: Deadline This Wednesday, 16th Sept
WHAT: iawards09
WHAT... MORE?: from blurb - Launched by the Government to recognise and celebrate the best of British science, innovation and technology, the iawards are backed by Science and Innovation Minister Lord Drayson and leading businessman James Caan.
HOW MUCH: Hard to tell without looking through in detail, but I think free
URL:http://www.iawards.org.uk
COMMENTS: Two words: 'Oh, bu**er'. Yet another that I can't resist (if it is indeed free), as much for getting us under the noses of judges if not doing well and hence gleaning PR, but why oh why do I only hear about them with two days to go... and doubtless a ton of preparation (the entry notes PDF is 21 pages!) required!!!!

This deserves its own post...

Wit thanks to good chum/honourary Junkketeer Paul, whose overnight Far East timezone caught it first and alerted me (he recognised the twins' vocal talents, but not mine as I shoved a weed up a pole inside a plant pot as a video camera ran), our entry on the recent '1 minute to save the world' competition noted yesterday is currently on their home page.

Too early and peaked. Or get in right away to drum up support?

Time, will tell.

I am now trying to figure ot how on earth you do drum support as for the life of me voting seems unclear. Anyhoo, we have to October.

However, should you feel inspired now to add your vote (5* has a nice feel:).... link, and/or pass on to your chums. Ta very much!

COMPETITION - One minute to save the world

COMPETITION

WHEN: Now, deadline
WHAT: One minute to save the world
WHAT... MORE?: Hat tip: Five of the best short films from the One minute to save the world competition
HOW MUCH: Free! But with munny at the end... er... if you win:(
URL: http://www.1minutetosavetheworld.com/
COMMENTS: I had a bumper sticker made once that said 'Copywriters have to do it in 30 secs or less'. Didn't seem to get many girls, mind. See how ours does. It does have kids, and is for sure 'amateur' in production, but might suffer from a more gritty message of realism.