Certain things you steer well clear of. The McCanns (and what's the poor wee missing kid's name again?). Religion. Heather Mills-Macca.
So I have/am/will. Save to say with regards to the latter that, before I switched off the 'news' when it wallowed in how the news of the news of this news was handled, I heard a clip of her make a very fair point: the correction should be as big and as immediate as the thing that led to it.
So here is mine... ish. All full blog's worth.
A while ago I read that the Spice Girls were each getting their own Lear Jet, and while one was bad enough, five just seemed... excessive. And I was moved to make that comment a few times subsequently.
Now it seems I may have been wrong, in a BBC 'well we got it off the PA wire so it's not our fault as a multi-billion media organisation of thousands who can and should check before running it' kinda way. Or, indeed, I, and the place I got it from, may yet be correct.
All I know is that it looks like they may have slightly more modest travel plans: Virgin Atlantic in Spice Girls deal
And that may not involve any Lears. Sorry.
Bte they'll be offsetting the poodle's hair stylist seat too.
Thursday, November 01, 2007
Waste... of food, that is
Well, it's here, as promised: Food Waste is Environmental Sleeping Giant Says WRAP
And as it is so significant, putting plastic bags and 4x4s, etc, into the shade, enviROI-wise, I will try and make the most of it on the site. And even here.
However, this is my blog, and I must get a few points off my chest first.
'A new Government backed campaign that reveals...' - unless I missed it in all the blurb I'll have to await seeing it. But the word 'campaign' fills me with dread already. How much? saying What? To whom? With what intention? Measures? And hence what hope of conversion for the money? The word 'reveals' fills me also with foreboding that what we will get is 90% scraping stuff into the bin and, possibly, 10% some celeb (free or funded?) saying 'don't do that' and then the Daily Mail finding what's in their restaurant skip the week after.
"... for every three bags of shopping we bring home, we effectively put one straight in the bin.' This IS staggering. I just hope the way it gets put across is designed to actually move folk to reduce it to zero.
In addition to press advertising and a supporting PR campaign that features celebrity chefs, home economists and well known personalities, the Love Food Hate Waste campaign features a website (How much to create? And run? And promote? And what bonusses paid on hits?unique visitors?) which gives advice, ideas on preparation, storage, portioning and recipes. - I've been to it. Are you as inspired as I am?
Key findings of our recent research on the nature, scale and causes of household food waste can be found here - worth a gander, for sure.
Indy Letters - Worth sharing (well, or not... you know what I mean)
With the usual sound of banging stable doors, after the 2001 foot-and-mouth outbreak, Defra forbade the use of waste food for feeding to pigs. Traditionally ,of course, the cottager's pig had been fed in this way (and then recycled completely except for its squeak) and commercial herds had been supplied by army canteens and the like.
Not now. If I feed so much as a stale crust or a faded cabbage leaf from my kitchen to my pigs I am liable to be thrown in jail for two years. So into landfill, or maybe in some enlightened circles into compost, waste food must go – and there always will be some waste.
Of course the animal feed manufacturers have benefited hugely from this diktat. The organic pig nuts I buy have soared in price and are likely to go on doing so as the price of grain rises irrevocably. I think the public will soon begin to notice that cheap bacon butties and Philip Hensher's £3 chicken are things of the past. Which is probably good, but doesn't solve the landfill problem unless councils are able to set up composting facilities for all biological waste.
ADDENDUM - Well, I was wrong. No plate scrapings. And I like the line. However, and I simply ask as I think I may be too close as an enviro guy and an ad man, do these immediately make you want to stop wasting as you have been for the last X years? Shoo-ins for next year's Green Awards, though. I am... saddened.
As reported in the Indy : Britain's colossal food waste is stoking climate change
Well, any 'waste' is, by definition, adding to the processes that can possibly/probably cause climate change, so OK. This is the latest 'topic du jour'. And it's important.
So... does this sell it to you... 'Britons must swap their wasteful habits ... shoppers were warned yesterday'?
I was well on board by the second line. No, really.
If 'Most waste arose because people had "over-shopped" as a result of not planning; because they failed to keep their fridge cold enough, allowing food to go off; or because food had passed its "best by" date. ', then surely we need to inject ideas and effort into dealing with these facts and issues. A crying tomato doesn't do that, sorry.
And, while telling and true, tackling the consumer is not going to address "buy one get one free" deals in supermarkets.
And I am stumped as to how this campaign can address the habits of those with fluid work and social patterns. This 50 year-old homeworker works 6 -7 daily to make ends meet, as does his wife. We don't have much time to faff about. But at least I am in the house at lunch to deal with last night's leftovers. I'd say few others are. Plus I have the motivation. I'd say few others have. There are certain realities of a 24/7, stressed and oppressed society, and no amount of 'slots' on a cooking show (it's already smacking of a green special in the fashion rags) is going to change the facts of our leife demands.
You can't make people eat something without first making it seem tasty. And that applies to ads as much as food.
Indy - Our throwaway culture
The food and supermarket industries need to reform their practices. They should cease using spurious "best before" dates that are designed to encourage people to waste edible food. - This I didn't know. I thought it was legislation/litigation drive. If not, it should be stopped.
The Government should be treating this issue with a little more urgency too. Hahahahahahaha. Love that word 'should'.
Joan Bakewell: What a waste! Why can't we all be more thrifty...
Bless.
And what is 'the Waste Reduction Agency'?
She's right of course.
What we need is a good example – in modern jargon "best practice". If we are to take the trouble to turn off electrical switches in our homes, what about those towering city offices that burn with lights throughout the night, even though the workers have long gone home? What about shops windows in every city centre blazing away at times when only a few lingering souls are about to see them?
Plus many, many more. Good examples, that is. Not payroll/pension parasites ticking another comms budget box.
Otherwise we're just tinkering round the edges.
Quite.
Telegraph - Where's the cream?
No leftovers then?
I just ask, because 'we' are getting a multi-lord-alone-knows how much ad/PR/media assault, including the 'contributions' of many celebs, to advocate this in the cause of reducing food waste.
Rated about a day on Aunty's menu, I think.
Amid job cuts, BBC meals come with whine
RWM
Maybe it's all yet to come, but has anyone seen any of this after the first day flurry?
Go Figure
Democracy is a complex, fragile thing.
I have been following a 'debate' in/on a medium, that revolves around protagonists that I would roughly say fall under the (if they can ever be fair) categories of 'Liberal elite' and 'educated Right'.
The problem seems to have been the former rather see themselves (and in many ways I'd stick myself in a liberal camp, if not elite, much as I might on occasion be in the Right camp, if not too educated) as those who speak for the majority and/or know what's best for them. The other side I rather think feel the same way, but usually at least err on not being quite so smug in their presumption of pedestal power. Or at least acknowledge the value of personal choice.
This post is merely to share some info that was brought to bear to a LE advocate claiming that most of the population was now onside with 'their' way of looking at things.
Now it is just newspapers, but I have to say this list was... interesting, and surely would give anyone in Islington with a modicum of analytical grasp some pause for thought, at least when it comes to claims of representing the majority:
ABC's circulation statistics:
News of the World -- 3,446,476
The Sun -- 3,213,756
The Daily Mail -- 2,365,499
The Mail on Sunday -- 2,348,982
Daily Mirror -- 1,584,742
Sunday Mirror -- 1,451,980
The Sunday Times -- 1,244,218
The Daily Telegraph -- 890,973
Daily Express -- 814,921
Daily Star -- 803,726
Sunday Express -- 727,439
The People -- 722,148
The Times -- 654,482
The Sunday Telegraph -- 644,828
Sunday Mail -- 512,115
Daily Star - Sunday -- 485,415
The Observer -- 472,252
Financial Times -- 441,219
Daily Record -- 412,332
Sunday Post -- 410,804
The Guardian -- 367,546
Evening Standard -- 291,150
The Independent -- 251,470
Independent on Sunday -- 213,566
Sunday Sport -- 92,912
Now, am I comfortable with the notion that this country should be run be the dictates of those who 'write' for or 'read' the News of the World? Not really, but no more than I am by those who only read the Guardian or Indy shaping key policy either.
That's where this democracy thing gets tricky.
I have been following a 'debate' in/on a medium, that revolves around protagonists that I would roughly say fall under the (if they can ever be fair) categories of 'Liberal elite' and 'educated Right'.
The problem seems to have been the former rather see themselves (and in many ways I'd stick myself in a liberal camp, if not elite, much as I might on occasion be in the Right camp, if not too educated) as those who speak for the majority and/or know what's best for them. The other side I rather think feel the same way, but usually at least err on not being quite so smug in their presumption of pedestal power. Or at least acknowledge the value of personal choice.
This post is merely to share some info that was brought to bear to a LE advocate claiming that most of the population was now onside with 'their' way of looking at things.
Now it is just newspapers, but I have to say this list was... interesting, and surely would give anyone in Islington with a modicum of analytical grasp some pause for thought, at least when it comes to claims of representing the majority:
ABC's circulation statistics:
News of the World -- 3,446,476
The Sun -- 3,213,756
The Daily Mail -- 2,365,499
The Mail on Sunday -- 2,348,982
Daily Mirror -- 1,584,742
Sunday Mirror -- 1,451,980
The Sunday Times -- 1,244,218
The Daily Telegraph -- 890,973
Daily Express -- 814,921
Daily Star -- 803,726
Sunday Express -- 727,439
The People -- 722,148
The Times -- 654,482
The Sunday Telegraph -- 644,828
Sunday Mail -- 512,115
Daily Star - Sunday -- 485,415
The Observer -- 472,252
Financial Times -- 441,219
Daily Record -- 412,332
Sunday Post -- 410,804
The Guardian -- 367,546
Evening Standard -- 291,150
The Independent -- 251,470
Independent on Sunday -- 213,566
Sunday Sport -- 92,912
Now, am I comfortable with the notion that this country should be run be the dictates of those who 'write' for or 'read' the News of the World? Not really, but no more than I am by those who only read the Guardian or Indy shaping key policy either.
That's where this democracy thing gets tricky.
One (more) from the pot
My eyebrow is now so high that it joined my receding hairline.
I'm going to get political here.
Having spent waaaay too much of yesterday in the company of local authority senior persons, and having watched latest rabbit-in-headlights performance by a succession on Government Ministers I wouldn't trust with the pay booth of a municipal carpark, I glanced at this but then studied it: Councils want extra money for migrants
After a decade (or in the case of some LAs kept in power by giving those who don't contribute anything to the pot anything they want for their votes) of misrule, the various ways the whole sorry lot are trying to screw money out of tax and ratepayers is getting laughable. Especially in light of the remuneration that gets immediately steered to the very numpties that caused all these problems in the first place.
First it's climate change as a means of dealing with the waste problem. And now it's immigrants suddenly being discovered as being here, doing half the new jobs but remitting most of the dough back to the homeland.
Tell you what, I'd let most of these hard working, talented types try a few new jobs if we could just flush the whole sorry lot who claim to be serving us. Fat cats. Fat chance.
I'm going to get political here.
Having spent waaaay too much of yesterday in the company of local authority senior persons, and having watched latest rabbit-in-headlights performance by a succession on Government Ministers I wouldn't trust with the pay booth of a municipal carpark, I glanced at this but then studied it: Councils want extra money for migrants
After a decade (or in the case of some LAs kept in power by giving those who don't contribute anything to the pot anything they want for their votes) of misrule, the various ways the whole sorry lot are trying to screw money out of tax and ratepayers is getting laughable. Especially in light of the remuneration that gets immediately steered to the very numpties that caused all these problems in the first place.
First it's climate change as a means of dealing with the waste problem. And now it's immigrants suddenly being discovered as being here, doing half the new jobs but remitting most of the dough back to the homeland.
Tell you what, I'd let most of these hard working, talented types try a few new jobs if we could just flush the whole sorry lot who claim to be serving us. Fat cats. Fat chance.
No chance in the UK!
This small article from Autos.Canada.com caught my eye this morning; its a bit of an aaaaahhhh story, about the small Sicilian town of Castelbuono, which has replaced its four garbage collection trucks with donkeys.
Castelbuono's mayor claims using the donkeys saves money and is more environmentally friendly. And who can argue with that?
So could it catch on here in the UK? No chance whatsoever! All our donkeys are already in full-time employment ............. as councilors and politicians!
Eeee-awwww, eeee-awwww, eeee-awwways laughs at his own silly jokes.
One rule for us, another for big business and pols
If you, like I, thought that it was the major European motor manufacturers who had done all the lobbying with the EU about relaxing the proposed limitations on CO2 emissions for new vehicles, then think again.
According to today's Times, our own transport secretary has also been part of the lobbying exercise and is suggesting that the EU relaxes it's "target of 120g/km by 2012, which would require immediate action by the car industry to reduce engine size and the weight of vehicles" and replaces it with a new longer term target of 100g/km by between 2020 & 2025.
In my entire life, if I've been set a target, I've regarded it as a rule to be followed and I have always striven to meet it; but it seems if you are big business or a pol then that same rule doesn't apply.
Just what use are targets if they are continually to be ignored, slipped or amended?
According to today's Times, our own transport secretary has also been part of the lobbying exercise and is suggesting that the EU relaxes it's "target of 120g/km by 2012, which would require immediate action by the car industry to reduce engine size and the weight of vehicles" and replaces it with a new longer term target of 100g/km by between 2020 & 2025.
In my entire life, if I've been set a target, I've regarded it as a rule to be followed and I have always striven to meet it; but it seems if you are big business or a pol then that same rule doesn't apply.
Just what use are targets if they are continually to be ignored, slipped or amended?
Bags of fun
This is an eyebrow-cock. I just watched a full BBC news splash about a town that has banned plastic bags.
Rather intriguingly, it was headed 'If you want to save the planet, then come and shop in Modbury'. OK, I'll let the logic of that one pass.
Now I admire any and all eco-efforts and wish only the best for those who use the media to push their cause. But... enviROI?
The issue of the cotton bags shipped over from India was quickly glossed over.
And it seems that 25,000 bags have been spared. I believe that's one tenth of the saving of driving one Volks Bluemotion in a year. I am unclear as to what else they do, or don't do there, which might actually help the planet as much as the PR industry. I saw a few shops in the background ablaze with lighting, which I am sure is down to CFLs. And for sure no doors open as heaters blast away inside?
I look forward to the story on the town where all the retailers club together and put insulation in the pensioners' homes. And the media cover it.
And as I look now at the next 'slot', I'm sure all the reporters will get there in chauffeured Mercs by way of example.
Addendum - Just watched it again at lunch. Something about the core of it all being biodegradable bags. Well, I am about to stroll to my local Somerfield (let's not get into the small shop thing here) and they have 'em. thing is, what are the consequences of these things biodegrading again?
Rather intriguingly, it was headed 'If you want to save the planet, then come and shop in Modbury'. OK, I'll let the logic of that one pass.
Now I admire any and all eco-efforts and wish only the best for those who use the media to push their cause. But... enviROI?
The issue of the cotton bags shipped over from India was quickly glossed over.
And it seems that 25,000 bags have been spared. I believe that's one tenth of the saving of driving one Volks Bluemotion in a year. I am unclear as to what else they do, or don't do there, which might actually help the planet as much as the PR industry. I saw a few shops in the background ablaze with lighting, which I am sure is down to CFLs. And for sure no doors open as heaters blast away inside?
I look forward to the story on the town where all the retailers club together and put insulation in the pensioners' homes. And the media cover it.
And as I look now at the next 'slot', I'm sure all the reporters will get there in chauffeured Mercs by way of example.
Addendum - Just watched it again at lunch. Something about the core of it all being biodegradable bags. Well, I am about to stroll to my local Somerfield (let's not get into the small shop thing here) and they have 'em. thing is, what are the consequences of these things biodegrading again?
Blah, blah, blah.
Newsnight asked. I have replied.
To your specific questions: 'Do these reports do any good or are they counter-productive? If two-thirds of all cancers have nothing to do with lifestyle, is it wrong to give the impression that we can control the disease?
Constant, evolving research and hence further understanding of anything to do with something as impactful on the human condition as cancer is both vital and helpful.
However, rushing out every small step on the way, almost as raw data, to a news media that only understands and hence wants tomorrow's headline, is indeed counter-productive.
The moment I watched BBC Breakfast News and was greeted with 'red meat, even in small doses, can be...' I switched off. I am an omnivore living in a supermarket society in 2007 where meat is legal to produce and widely promoted. This information served no purpose as presented. Other than perhaps making me more likely to dismiss the next, possibly more worthy attempt at shaping our lifestyles as yet more spin being turned into hype.
And as for 'impressions' of 'control'. As with any science, when it can be done and is verifiable, then share it. The media culture of rushing out the next 'might one day', half-considered and always open to rebuttal, simply weakens the credibility of those doing the work and, if that's possible, the media acting as the conduit for such pointless messages.
BBC - Be thin to cut cancer, study says
Guardian - Stay trim and stop eating bacon, cancer report declares
To your specific questions: 'Do these reports do any good or are they counter-productive? If two-thirds of all cancers have nothing to do with lifestyle, is it wrong to give the impression that we can control the disease?
Constant, evolving research and hence further understanding of anything to do with something as impactful on the human condition as cancer is both vital and helpful.
However, rushing out every small step on the way, almost as raw data, to a news media that only understands and hence wants tomorrow's headline, is indeed counter-productive.
The moment I watched BBC Breakfast News and was greeted with 'red meat, even in small doses, can be...' I switched off. I am an omnivore living in a supermarket society in 2007 where meat is legal to produce and widely promoted. This information served no purpose as presented. Other than perhaps making me more likely to dismiss the next, possibly more worthy attempt at shaping our lifestyles as yet more spin being turned into hype.
And as for 'impressions' of 'control'. As with any science, when it can be done and is verifiable, then share it. The media culture of rushing out the next 'might one day', half-considered and always open to rebuttal, simply weakens the credibility of those doing the work and, if that's possible, the media acting as the conduit for such pointless messages.
BBC - Be thin to cut cancer, study says
Guardian - Stay trim and stop eating bacon, cancer report declares
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Hard to s...ustain
I was at a 'do' at Hereford's Shire Hall.
It's the same place I attended for a previous council sponsored event, for Herefordshire's Hydro power future. And yet again I was truly inspired by the organisation behind it all.
For a start, I only learned of it in a local paper last week, in a section for a market town to the North of the county, labelled "Let's Go Greener". It had an email to sign up, which I did, but I never heard back. So I risked a trip anyway. Fortunately it was still happening. Unfortunately I'd got the impression it was a day-long exhibition I got pop into (who can take all day off???), when in fact it was a bunch of speeches and huddles to try and 'understand' what sustainability and social enterprise meant. Plus the main speakers had apparently come, spoke and scooted off so no one-on-one there. So I am in no real position really to comment too much.
What I do know is that the acoustics pretty much meant no one could hear anyone else. And the A/V was almost impossible to view which, in light of my PowerPoint phobia, may have been a good thing.
For the bit I arrived at it seems the county suffers from a lack of engineers and trained staff. By some coincidence, that very same evening I was at a Ross-based event where a whole load of guys in suits turned up to say how awful things were because of X,Y & Z but they were all here and listening.
One thing that has struck me is that when it comes to the rather popular catch-all of social enterprise, it is simply too broad to make any reasonable comparison between those who fall under it and what they are trying to do. When it comes to delivery and funding and discussion and, etc...how can, say, Junkk.com be equated to a guy on a grant helping with housing for drug addicts? Yet at such events we are lumped together and competing to be heard. Daft.
And one thing I would mention to some of those who 'work' for entities that do not operate to generate enough value that they can make a profit: frankly if you don't, or can't, make at least a small profit, it would be hard to call any business sustainable. So why being 'for profit' often precludes entry to/partcipation in mnay evnts in the name of sustainable communities is hard to grasp.
Not very nice work. But very getting very nice pay.
Here's a job title to strike fear into anyone who cares about... well... anything really: management consultant.
If my Mum used to be too ashamed to tell folk I worked in advertising and so claimed I worked as the piano player in a brothel, then these were the guys in the rooms upstairs. And billing it at £300+/hr, no result-all fee, for a further bunch of senior, experienced, 'can't do without the talent pool' numpties to pass on to the hapless bunch they claim to serve.
I was en route to a do just now and caught the Jeremy Vine show on BBC R2. Always good for a popped blood vessel or three.
The topic seems to have been inspired by the news that said hourly rate was going to a merry crew to advise the Royal Mail, and £65M had been set aside to cover per diems.
And in a classic twofer we had the lady boss of the Institute of bloodsucking makeweights and an ex-practioner. Both, amazingly, had written books, which by sheer coincidence were mentioned more than the story.
Now I can only presume the lady was a relative of Mr. Vine's, as he pretty much followed each one of her statements with 'well, that's nailed that one!'.
Her opponent was actually rather good on facts, but very poor on presentation. So you can see how this went down in one of our premier news debate shows.
I kind of gave up hoping for balance when this bloke quoted the lady from her own book as saying 'most management consultancy is a total waste'. And she was then allowed to adjust it to 'well, some might be less than...' and move on.
And then a series of utter disasters, mainly public service, costing us a fortune and doing diddly squat, was raised and then dismissed as exceptions. NHS, Tax Credit, Child Support... you name the triumph of sod all, management consultancy was at its core. And still got paid.
What amazed me was this cocky bird couldn't seem to quote a single case (I presume there must be many) where the consultants had actually made a positive difference. She even tried to claim they'd had the 'idea' of putting MOTs online or something... with the DVLA. That's it???? And as the bod pointed out, even that didn't quite work as well as claimed.
Next she'll be saying the got an award for the crinkly bits around Norway (you'll have to know your Hitch-hikers Guide)
And barely discussed was the role of the even more venal crew who hire these guys. If they can't manage, why are they hiring others in to mis-manage for them? I am being rhetorical. Layers confer prestige and/or offer protection come the 'review'.
Sickening. Enjoy the bubbly-bath, guys. There is a wall ready and wait when the revolution comes.
Indy - Are drug treatment programmes a waste of taxpayers' money? - Speaking of total wastes of money. I can't do the maths, but it seems that it's costing hundreds if not thousands per person, to reach fewer addicts.
If my Mum used to be too ashamed to tell folk I worked in advertising and so claimed I worked as the piano player in a brothel, then these were the guys in the rooms upstairs. And billing it at £300+/hr, no result-all fee, for a further bunch of senior, experienced, 'can't do without the talent pool' numpties to pass on to the hapless bunch they claim to serve.
I was en route to a do just now and caught the Jeremy Vine show on BBC R2. Always good for a popped blood vessel or three.
The topic seems to have been inspired by the news that said hourly rate was going to a merry crew to advise the Royal Mail, and £65M had been set aside to cover per diems.
And in a classic twofer we had the lady boss of the Institute of bloodsucking makeweights and an ex-practioner. Both, amazingly, had written books, which by sheer coincidence were mentioned more than the story.
Now I can only presume the lady was a relative of Mr. Vine's, as he pretty much followed each one of her statements with 'well, that's nailed that one!'.
Her opponent was actually rather good on facts, but very poor on presentation. So you can see how this went down in one of our premier news debate shows.
I kind of gave up hoping for balance when this bloke quoted the lady from her own book as saying 'most management consultancy is a total waste'. And she was then allowed to adjust it to 'well, some might be less than...' and move on.
And then a series of utter disasters, mainly public service, costing us a fortune and doing diddly squat, was raised and then dismissed as exceptions. NHS, Tax Credit, Child Support... you name the triumph of sod all, management consultancy was at its core. And still got paid.
What amazed me was this cocky bird couldn't seem to quote a single case (I presume there must be many) where the consultants had actually made a positive difference. She even tried to claim they'd had the 'idea' of putting MOTs online or something... with the DVLA. That's it???? And as the bod pointed out, even that didn't quite work as well as claimed.
Next she'll be saying the got an award for the crinkly bits around Norway (you'll have to know your Hitch-hikers Guide)
And barely discussed was the role of the even more venal crew who hire these guys. If they can't manage, why are they hiring others in to mis-manage for them? I am being rhetorical. Layers confer prestige and/or offer protection come the 'review'.
Sickening. Enjoy the bubbly-bath, guys. There is a wall ready and wait when the revolution comes.
Indy - Are drug treatment programmes a waste of taxpayers' money? - Speaking of total wastes of money. I can't do the maths, but it seems that it's costing hundreds if not thousands per person, to reach fewer addicts.
Edited to adjust the message?
Here's yet another (alleged) example of the media making selective edits in order to slant a story closer to the line that they want to take.
As reported by Raw Story, this piece tells of the anger of students who appeared on a Fox Channel special which was aired directly in response to CNN's 'Planet in peril' show. Its almost a perfect mirror of the 'An Inconvenient Truth Vs. The Great Global Warming Swindle' debate.
Looks to me like 'adjusting the message' is fast becoming the norm across the mainstream media. Whatever happened to honest reporting?
(Come on Peter, calm down, you can stop rolling around laughing now!)
As reported by Raw Story, this piece tells of the anger of students who appeared on a Fox Channel special which was aired directly in response to CNN's 'Planet in peril' show. Its almost a perfect mirror of the 'An Inconvenient Truth Vs. The Great Global Warming Swindle' debate.
Looks to me like 'adjusting the message' is fast becoming the norm across the mainstream media. Whatever happened to honest reporting?
(Come on Peter, calm down, you can stop rolling around laughing now!)
Credit Crunch
As a smug, self-satisfied eco-warrior, each action I take of course brings its own reward.
Today was more so than many.
I just flushed a loo that only required a lightning strike to create life in its bowl.
I put out bin liner only half full of various nasties from a family of five in a week.
I exchanged cheery badinage with the nice man from the kerbside collection service, who happily took my letter to his boss to save on post cost and energy.
Now I am switching all off in the house that is not required to attend a council event in the big city. OK, I'm driving. You can't win 'em all.
Thing is, I happily do these because I don't see why not and nothing much hurts (though the missus is not big on the mellow loo notion, especially with 3 males in the house).
But I do wonder about others.
Especially as there is no incentive to do any of these things. No penalty to be sure, but no nudge to the cause of eco-righteousness.
My water is unmetered. I can put out as many bags as I like. No one insists I put out the RE:Box. And no one cares much if I drive to the city at the same time as another attendee (I have the solution!!!!!! If anyone would like to help me develop it!!!!!!)
And that seems to me to be barking.
ADDENDUM - I attended a local meeting the same evening. Our Environment Cabinet Member has told us that 'we' will not have bi-weekly rubbish collections imposed. No eco or financial reasons, either. In a refreshing bit of honesty he admitted it was because very councillor had told him it was not going to happen and he wanted to keep his job, along with theirs. Ah... democracy.
Today was more so than many.
I just flushed a loo that only required a lightning strike to create life in its bowl.
I put out bin liner only half full of various nasties from a family of five in a week.
I exchanged cheery badinage with the nice man from the kerbside collection service, who happily took my letter to his boss to save on post cost and energy.
Now I am switching all off in the house that is not required to attend a council event in the big city. OK, I'm driving. You can't win 'em all.
Thing is, I happily do these because I don't see why not and nothing much hurts (though the missus is not big on the mellow loo notion, especially with 3 males in the house).
But I do wonder about others.
Especially as there is no incentive to do any of these things. No penalty to be sure, but no nudge to the cause of eco-righteousness.
My water is unmetered. I can put out as many bags as I like. No one insists I put out the RE:Box. And no one cares much if I drive to the city at the same time as another attendee (I have the solution!!!!!! If anyone would like to help me develop it!!!!!!)
And that seems to me to be barking.
ADDENDUM - I attended a local meeting the same evening. Our Environment Cabinet Member has told us that 'we' will not have bi-weekly rubbish collections imposed. No eco or financial reasons, either. In a refreshing bit of honesty he admitted it was because very councillor had told him it was not going to happen and he wanted to keep his job, along with theirs. Ah... democracy.
Go West!
That was the cry of early US settlers once the passes through the rockies to the green and pleasant California lands were opened. Well, those green and pleasant lands appear to be fast becoming a barren desert.
This, from the Guardian, reports on the Californian wild fires and what is likely to be the main underlying problem, a distinct lack of rainfall (and snowfall) and rapidly falling man-made reservoir and natural aquifer levels. It does not point directly at climate change, but to the fact that this part of the world is arid by nature, and man's continued excessive use of available water supplies is depleting what is already a scarce resource.
"The people who move to the west today need to realise they're moving into a desert. If they want to live in a desert, they have to adapt to a desert lifestyle."
I think I'll stay put in cold and damp Shropshire!
Meanwhile, Australians are also suffering from appalling drought problems. This from NineMSM caught my notice, not least because I have a 'Drizabone' golf waterproof outfit, and brilliant it is too, but it looks like the bottom has rather fallen out of their outback market.
"with farmers telling of toddlers outgrowing their gum boots before needing them and their cattle becoming skittish at the unaccustomed pitter-patter of rain on their backs, Drizabone days are now scarce".
Now this article does point directly at climate change. Interesting to note that the Australian government is now offering large grants to farmers to leave the land as the billabongs slowly disappear!
This, from the Guardian, reports on the Californian wild fires and what is likely to be the main underlying problem, a distinct lack of rainfall (and snowfall) and rapidly falling man-made reservoir and natural aquifer levels. It does not point directly at climate change, but to the fact that this part of the world is arid by nature, and man's continued excessive use of available water supplies is depleting what is already a scarce resource.
"The people who move to the west today need to realise they're moving into a desert. If they want to live in a desert, they have to adapt to a desert lifestyle."
I think I'll stay put in cold and damp Shropshire!
Meanwhile, Australians are also suffering from appalling drought problems. This from NineMSM caught my notice, not least because I have a 'Drizabone' golf waterproof outfit, and brilliant it is too, but it looks like the bottom has rather fallen out of their outback market.
"with farmers telling of toddlers outgrowing their gum boots before needing them and their cattle becoming skittish at the unaccustomed pitter-patter of rain on their backs, Drizabone days are now scarce".
Now this article does point directly at climate change. Interesting to note that the Australian government is now offering large grants to farmers to leave the land as the billabongs slowly disappear!
AFFRONT TO NATURE - The Batter Blaster
I think I already had this notion, but under another name.
Now Blogger has nifty archive stuff I am resurrecting under ATN - Affront to Nature!
It's for those 'innovations' that if you have even a modicum of e-mpathy you just go.... 'why????'
But the Batter Blaster dispenses a mix that is 'organic', so that is Ooooook, then.
Treehugger - I wonder who was 1st?
Now Blogger has nifty archive stuff I am resurrecting under ATN - Affront to Nature!
It's for those 'innovations' that if you have even a modicum of e-mpathy you just go.... 'why????'
But the Batter Blaster dispenses a mix that is 'organic', so that is Ooooook, then.
Treehugger - I wonder who was 1st?
Making more Friends and influencing people
ITV to drop subscription model for Friends Reunited
OK. Now I will join. 'nuff said about online models?
Did I mention Junkk.com is free? Always has been:)
Brand Republic - Google to fight back in battle of social networks - Meanwhile....
OK. Now I will join. 'nuff said about online models?
Did I mention Junkk.com is free? Always has been:)
Brand Republic - Google to fight back in battle of social networks - Meanwhile....
Try googling bandwagon
Google goes green with carbon footprint project
Weeee! The more the merrier. Actually, I'm thinking of launching a web-based project that enables people to calculate which carbon calculator to use.
Hey, any info on sensible reduction is fine. However, one does have to wonder what most will make of it and hence whether the money could have been directed in areas more tangible in reducing emissions to a decent enviROI+ level.
And is this the coolest job title in the world or what: geospatial technologist. Beat my Spellcheck even.
Good luck to 'em. With their resources and pooling the info as indicated I think they may be in with a better chance than most of making a difference. Just... how many people and how much time is overlapping in this sector now?
I have already been through the horror of the ActONCo2 effort and never went back. Now, at first click/glance, I am faced by yet another truly inspirational landing page that really looks an effort.
Weeee! The more the merrier. Actually, I'm thinking of launching a web-based project that enables people to calculate which carbon calculator to use.
Hey, any info on sensible reduction is fine. However, one does have to wonder what most will make of it and hence whether the money could have been directed in areas more tangible in reducing emissions to a decent enviROI+ level.
And is this the coolest job title in the world or what: geospatial technologist. Beat my Spellcheck even.
Good luck to 'em. With their resources and pooling the info as indicated I think they may be in with a better chance than most of making a difference. Just... how many people and how much time is overlapping in this sector now?
I have already been through the horror of the ActONCo2 effort and never went back. Now, at first click/glance, I am faced by yet another truly inspirational landing page that really looks an effort.
What's the German for 'Well, D'Uh!"
Limiting growth
The only chance of solving the challenge of global climate change is to decouple economic growth from energy consumption and emissions.
Ignoring population expansion in complement is cute, too, unless this is an attempt "...By mid-century, the lives of seven billion people might be governed by its laws.' People consume.
So...'The only chance of improvement is to decouple economic growth from energy consumption and emissions. This must happen in the emerging countries, and even more urgently in the old industrial economies.' Yup. Got it. But I'm guessing a few billion plus are about to ditch the Raleigh 3-speed and looking at a nice hatchback as we debate.
And if any sentient being on the the planet is labouring under illusion that pollution is cost-free then maybe the question is more on the message and the current crop of messengers... as the consequences ain't getting through in any persuasive way!
Changes are needed. But the powerful do tend to be better placed to avoid being losers. Equally those entrenched and well-placed self-appointed (well, to be fair, I'm presuming Mr. F is voted in to do so by some) saviours of the planet who have done so poorly to make much difference to date. Mainly by cherry-picking what they fancy that's easy to score a lucrative gig.
I need a bit more now from poltical leadership than nice words.
The only chance of solving the challenge of global climate change is to decouple economic growth from energy consumption and emissions.
Ignoring population expansion in complement is cute, too, unless this is an attempt "...By mid-century, the lives of seven billion people might be governed by its laws.' People consume.
So...'The only chance of improvement is to decouple economic growth from energy consumption and emissions. This must happen in the emerging countries, and even more urgently in the old industrial economies.' Yup. Got it. But I'm guessing a few billion plus are about to ditch the Raleigh 3-speed and looking at a nice hatchback as we debate.
And if any sentient being on the the planet is labouring under illusion that pollution is cost-free then maybe the question is more on the message and the current crop of messengers... as the consequences ain't getting through in any persuasive way!
Changes are needed. But the powerful do tend to be better placed to avoid being losers. Equally those entrenched and well-placed self-appointed (well, to be fair, I'm presuming Mr. F is voted in to do so by some) saviours of the planet who have done so poorly to make much difference to date. Mainly by cherry-picking what they fancy that's easy to score a lucrative gig.
I need a bit more now from poltical leadership than nice words.
Getting the hacks: no problem. But 3 boffins!!!
Reporting News. Or Making It?
I just have to shake me heads when the bouffant and the blonde stare solemnly at the camera and intone '...and what can be done about it?'.
Nothing, my loves, for now you have jumped on the bandwagon it has gathered so much steam it will never be stopped. One the rabble are roused, you can never put the cork back in.
My two 11 year-olds have pestered 'til we gave in, and are going out with some chums tonight trick or treating. They have made costumes and, as far as I can tell, just hope to score some candy. There are no fireworks or flour bombs in the basement. And they have had dire warnings from us and the school about any bad behaviour. I have also cautioned them that not all whose doors they may knock will be inspired by their cute outfits, so just move on if it seems they are unwelcome.
Which, if anyone watched the TV slot I just saw, they will be. Hooded late teenagers with no hint of Halloween make-up or spirit simply out to make trouble. Police vans and threats of ASBOs. Neighbourhood collapse.
It was there on screen so I guess it must happen. Though from the way the muppet with the mic was prompting one had to wonder just how outraged some were before being pushed to respond ion a useful soundbite manner.But there was also no balance... at all. Nice, young, happy kids engaging in a bit of social activity around the neighbourhood for one evening in the year. I have some candy for any that call here. But I will also be taping up the letterbox now.
How sad is that? And with news reports like this it will never improve.
I just hope my boys have as good a time as they are hoping. Fingers crossed.
Guardian - I'm a Halloweenie - Meanwhile in Planet CiF. Some worthy 'facts', though. As a Scot I now don't feel so suckered.
Might Help
Telegraph - Hallowe'en bashers need to lighten up
In the morning I watched a BBC 'report' on the 'state of the crisis' filmed in a sink estate with late teens whose only costumes seemed to be hoodies. Posters from the local plod were shown making a plea to retailers not to sell eggs or flour to any youths for fear of a nasty outbreak of pancake batter-y.
My dear old Mum therefore locked herself upstairs in fear of this feral assault.
That night my two 11-year-olds went out with their mates dressed in costumes they'd made. For 3 hrs they toured the town, had a ball, got a ton of candy from generous, well-prepared neighbours.
I think I know who really needs to sort themselves out.
Nothing, my loves, for now you have jumped on the bandwagon it has gathered so much steam it will never be stopped. One the rabble are roused, you can never put the cork back in.
My two 11 year-olds have pestered 'til we gave in, and are going out with some chums tonight trick or treating. They have made costumes and, as far as I can tell, just hope to score some candy. There are no fireworks or flour bombs in the basement. And they have had dire warnings from us and the school about any bad behaviour. I have also cautioned them that not all whose doors they may knock will be inspired by their cute outfits, so just move on if it seems they are unwelcome.
Which, if anyone watched the TV slot I just saw, they will be. Hooded late teenagers with no hint of Halloween make-up or spirit simply out to make trouble. Police vans and threats of ASBOs. Neighbourhood collapse.
It was there on screen so I guess it must happen. Though from the way the muppet with the mic was prompting one had to wonder just how outraged some were before being pushed to respond ion a useful soundbite manner.But there was also no balance... at all. Nice, young, happy kids engaging in a bit of social activity around the neighbourhood for one evening in the year. I have some candy for any that call here. But I will also be taping up the letterbox now.
How sad is that? And with news reports like this it will never improve.
I just hope my boys have as good a time as they are hoping. Fingers crossed.
Guardian - I'm a Halloweenie - Meanwhile in Planet CiF. Some worthy 'facts', though. As a Scot I now don't feel so suckered.
Might Help
Telegraph - Hallowe'en bashers need to lighten up
In the morning I watched a BBC 'report' on the 'state of the crisis' filmed in a sink estate with late teens whose only costumes seemed to be hoodies. Posters from the local plod were shown making a plea to retailers not to sell eggs or flour to any youths for fear of a nasty outbreak of pancake batter-y.
My dear old Mum therefore locked herself upstairs in fear of this feral assault.
That night my two 11-year-olds went out with their mates dressed in costumes they'd made. For 3 hrs they toured the town, had a ball, got a ton of candy from generous, well-prepared neighbours.
I think I know who really needs to sort themselves out.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
SITE - greenprocurementcode.co.uk
I'm sure there's a default to change, but it's a pity this posts at the point it was drafted and not published.
I have not reviewed this site yet but feel the urge to share as this is a definite 'why not?'. It didn't start well as I tried to sign up (may be a Mac/Safari thing) and it wouldn't work. I've told them and no word yet.
Here's the PR blurb that went with:
Mayor of London launches extended service to help London businesses buy greener
The Mayor of London has nnounced that his Green Procurement Code is being updated and extended. It will now offer businesses specialist procurement advice to buy low carbon products in addition to the traditional focus on buying recycled products.
Previously, the Mayor of London's Green Procurement Code, focused on stimulating demand and creating markets for recycled products. Since its launch in 2001, members of the programme have spent £548.7 million on recycled products and diverted 1.8 million tonnes of waste from landfill. Using recycled materials in new products prevents the disposal of that material to landfill, which reduces emission of carbon dioxide. Over the last two years, 391,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions have been saved through the purchase of recycled products.
To build on this success, the free support service, funded by the London Development Agency will now provide businesses with procurement advice on an extended range of green products including low carbon, water saving and sustainable technologies.
Part of the new service will be interactive to reach the greatest possible number of businesses, including London's small and medium enterprises (SMEs). There is now a dedicated green procurement website www.greenprocurementcode.co.uk and organisations delivering the biggest environmental impact through their purchases can also receive five to seven days of dedicated one-to-one support.
Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone, said: "I have updated my [oo, get you - for once I'd feel the 3rd person my have scanned better] Green Procurement Code so that more businesses can get specialist support to buy green products. In order to tackle climate change we have to take decisive action right now to cut our emissions of greenhouse gases. My new Green Procurement Code will help businesses to become energy efficient and use their resources more efficiently ultimately helping them to cut their carbon emissions."
The Mayor of London's new Green Procurement Code is the only service of its kind in Europe. The launch of the new service enables London to retain its leadership in the UK on green procurement.
London Remade will continue to deliver the service with new partners, Action Sustainability and Mouchel Parkman.
I have not reviewed this site yet but feel the urge to share as this is a definite 'why not?'. It didn't start well as I tried to sign up (may be a Mac/Safari thing) and it wouldn't work. I've told them and no word yet.
Here's the PR blurb that went with:
Mayor of London launches extended service to help London businesses buy greener
The Mayor of London has nnounced that his Green Procurement Code is being updated and extended. It will now offer businesses specialist procurement advice to buy low carbon products in addition to the traditional focus on buying recycled products.
Previously, the Mayor of London's Green Procurement Code, focused on stimulating demand and creating markets for recycled products. Since its launch in 2001, members of the programme have spent £548.7 million on recycled products and diverted 1.8 million tonnes of waste from landfill. Using recycled materials in new products prevents the disposal of that material to landfill, which reduces emission of carbon dioxide. Over the last two years, 391,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions have been saved through the purchase of recycled products.
To build on this success, the free support service, funded by the London Development Agency will now provide businesses with procurement advice on an extended range of green products including low carbon, water saving and sustainable technologies.
Part of the new service will be interactive to reach the greatest possible number of businesses, including London's small and medium enterprises (SMEs). There is now a dedicated green procurement website www.greenprocurementcode.co.uk and organisations delivering the biggest environmental impact through their purchases can also receive five to seven days of dedicated one-to-one support.
Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone, said: "I have updated my [oo, get you - for once I'd feel the 3rd person my have scanned better] Green Procurement Code so that more businesses can get specialist support to buy green products. In order to tackle climate change we have to take decisive action right now to cut our emissions of greenhouse gases. My new Green Procurement Code will help businesses to become energy efficient and use their resources more efficiently ultimately helping them to cut their carbon emissions."
The Mayor of London's new Green Procurement Code is the only service of its kind in Europe. The launch of the new service enables London to retain its leadership in the UK on green procurement.
London Remade will continue to deliver the service with new partners, Action Sustainability and Mouchel Parkman.
Do you buy it?
I got quite excited when I read this BBC and Guardian launch new eco sites
More nifty ways to find out things to do to help the planet, I thought.
What I was not quite prepared for was the flogging stuff part when I got there.
My fault, I guess, I just have a different idea in mind when I think 'eco-site'. And it's not 'shop'. Or 'car salesroom'.
Now, the Guardian can do what it likes. But I'd love to have explained to me how 'leading media group' Aunty gets to flog a Ford Focus and still stay credible on reporting climate change... under the same brand name at least.
I am sure all will indeed be extremely successful in the run-up to Christmas, but just not quite so sure as to how it all helps the planet vs. not buying stuff. Instead of the LCD, OK, but what's the betting most in the demographic fancy both, plus a quick trip to Verbier to avoid the crowds. While the snow lasts. There's always the Rockies next year.
More nifty ways to find out things to do to help the planet, I thought.
What I was not quite prepared for was the flogging stuff part when I got there.
My fault, I guess, I just have a different idea in mind when I think 'eco-site'. And it's not 'shop'. Or 'car salesroom'.
Now, the Guardian can do what it likes. But I'd love to have explained to me how 'leading media group' Aunty gets to flog a Ford Focus and still stay credible on reporting climate change... under the same brand name at least.
I am sure all will indeed be extremely successful in the run-up to Christmas, but just not quite so sure as to how it all helps the planet vs. not buying stuff. Instead of the LCD, OK, but what's the betting most in the demographic fancy both, plus a quick trip to Verbier to avoid the crowds. While the snow lasts. There's always the Rockies next year.
Star bucks
It's down to time. And money. And money is time.
I just watched a thing on the news about train travel. All I can say is great. If it takes roughly the same time and costs roughly the same amount... why wouldn't you?
Take my trip to Brussels next month.
I'm staying over at a London chum's again after a weekend event, and taking the Eurostar. Brillo. And £60 door to door. No plane to match it.
And even the timing is great, even factoring in the getting to's and fro's. Coming back not so great, but at £12.50 for London to Gloucester (please let it run!!) I can live with the 2hr bus trip back home.
No brainer for next to no money. And the time is on par. When it works, it works (now, please work.... pretty please:)
I just watched a thing on the news about train travel. All I can say is great. If it takes roughly the same time and costs roughly the same amount... why wouldn't you?
Take my trip to Brussels next month.
I'm staying over at a London chum's again after a weekend event, and taking the Eurostar. Brillo. And £60 door to door. No plane to match it.
And even the timing is great, even factoring in the getting to's and fro's. Coming back not so great, but at £12.50 for London to Gloucester (please let it run!!) I can live with the 2hr bus trip back home.
No brainer for next to no money. And the time is on par. When it works, it works (now, please work.... pretty please:)
The elephant in the room. I guess we eat that first.
Humankind at risk as resources dry up
True and true.
However, it always surprises me how often and to what degree population increase is not even acknowledged, much less any intelligent discussions taking place about its potentially deleterious effects. Especially in conjunction with the human demands on resources during periods of economic growth that are matching that of our race's numbers.
I just wonder what will be the point when those theoretically in charge look at the finite land area (and sea volume) there is to support an ever-increasing human footprint.
True and true.
However, it always surprises me how often and to what degree population increase is not even acknowledged, much less any intelligent discussions taking place about its potentially deleterious effects. Especially in conjunction with the human demands on resources during periods of economic growth that are matching that of our race's numbers.
I just wonder what will be the point when those theoretically in charge look at the finite land area (and sea volume) there is to support an ever-increasing human footprint.
Is there anything dumber than really simple?
'Cos I have... er... this freind.
And he...ok... I am trying to get a handle on, amongst many other IT things, RSS.
Because I know I am missing more tricks than a lady of easy virtue leaning against the Vatican walls.
I'm hoping this (which seems very helpful, which is why I URL it your way) may help... if I can understand it any batter than what I know already.
I already have an APB out for a teenager to help with MySpace, etc. I think I need another. If I can say that in public still. I'm not sure I can wait for my two to get that old.
Bloglines
The Ultimate RSS Toolbox
RSS Field Descriptions
The RSS Blog
Digital Point XML/RSS Discussion Forum
RSS Specifications Submit RSS Feeds
The MillionRSS Project
RSS Compendium RSS Resources
RSS Advertising - Pheedo
Feedburner
And he...ok... I am trying to get a handle on, amongst many other IT things, RSS.
Because I know I am missing more tricks than a lady of easy virtue leaning against the Vatican walls.
I'm hoping this (which seems very helpful, which is why I URL it your way) may help... if I can understand it any batter than what I know already.
I already have an APB out for a teenager to help with MySpace, etc. I think I need another. If I can say that in public still. I'm not sure I can wait for my two to get that old.
Bloglines
The Ultimate RSS Toolbox
RSS Field Descriptions
The RSS Blog
Digital Point XML/RSS Discussion Forum
RSS Specifications Submit RSS Feeds
The MillionRSS Project
RSS Compendium RSS Resources
RSS Advertising - Pheedo
Feedburner
Ready, steady...er...
Rubbish charging given go-ahead - Confused? You will be:)
You put your green glass in. They take the PEP 1 out. You put your compost in. They take the Tetrapak out. And you shake it all about (actually, there's a fine for that). You do the ok-dokey and you tick a box... that's what it's all about!
You put your green glass in. They take the PEP 1 out. You put your compost in. They take the Tetrapak out. And you shake it all about (actually, there's a fine for that). You do the ok-dokey and you tick a box... that's what it's all about!
Forget me not
It's not enviro, but I'm posting anyway as it goes to the core of how we are mis-governed - NHS pariahs
Oh, yes, I am angry.
My Mum has mild but deteriorating Alzheimer's. She is also quite comfortable financially. When she was no longer able to manage in her own home we moved her to a cottage next to ours where i could keep an eye on her hourly. It has worked well so far. Yes, there was some official interest (more visits and clipboards than I could count in a short period), but once it was appreciated that she had family looking after her this evaporated. Priorities. Fair enough. And we are grateful for the non means-tested attendance allowance that helps us to look after her more intimate needs via private carer visits.
However soon it may be that her medical needs will require her to go into a home, and while this will be a sad day for all there is really no option. Fortunately she is well prepared for this, and we will ensure that she has the best her money can buy.
So why I am I angry? Because, with the exception of the attendance allowance, thanks to her and my deceased father's prudence and thrift she has been near zero a burden on the state or its coffers. Helped in a small way by her family rallying round.
But when the time comes and she passes on, should she yet be able to leave some funds to ease the personal, familial and national burden of geriatric care for future generations, it first has to run the gamut of IHT so the government can suck out as much as it can to fund useless box-tickers and gold-plated civil service pensions.
And yet in defence of this all I see is smug Brown babes and comfy Islington media luvvies trying to claim it is just to redistribute wealth to prevent rich landed gentry spoiling their heirs.
Where is the incentive to save for your old age and the benefit of others who may play a great part in making its consequences less onerous... for all concerned???!
Oh, yes, I am angry.
My Mum has mild but deteriorating Alzheimer's. She is also quite comfortable financially. When she was no longer able to manage in her own home we moved her to a cottage next to ours where i could keep an eye on her hourly. It has worked well so far. Yes, there was some official interest (more visits and clipboards than I could count in a short period), but once it was appreciated that she had family looking after her this evaporated. Priorities. Fair enough. And we are grateful for the non means-tested attendance allowance that helps us to look after her more intimate needs via private carer visits.
However soon it may be that her medical needs will require her to go into a home, and while this will be a sad day for all there is really no option. Fortunately she is well prepared for this, and we will ensure that she has the best her money can buy.
So why I am I angry? Because, with the exception of the attendance allowance, thanks to her and my deceased father's prudence and thrift she has been near zero a burden on the state or its coffers. Helped in a small way by her family rallying round.
But when the time comes and she passes on, should she yet be able to leave some funds to ease the personal, familial and national burden of geriatric care for future generations, it first has to run the gamut of IHT so the government can suck out as much as it can to fund useless box-tickers and gold-plated civil service pensions.
And yet in defence of this all I see is smug Brown babes and comfy Islington media luvvies trying to claim it is just to redistribute wealth to prevent rich landed gentry spoiling their heirs.
Where is the incentive to save for your old age and the benefit of others who may play a great part in making its consequences less onerous... for all concerned???!
But carry a big pointy stick
Tread Lightly is a new(ish Guardian blog site. Some nice ideas and useful debate.
Trouble is, I'm having a problem working it as will be gathered by my posting on the section. However, I have my reasons.
EnvironmentEditor Comment No. 76060October 29 16:17 Blimey, what fantastic tips...
Yes, tips are good. Long may they be shared.
And this looks like a good place to share them. However I must confess to having a few navigational problems.
This thread, obviously, is about light bulbs. And I have more I'd like to share on other things in other enviro-areas. But this is not so easy.
Take my main area of reuse. There is a link to a more promising zone of the Tread Lightly Section, Waste, but when I tried to read more and contribute to Reuse or throw away? the link didn't work and comments were closed (so please go to http://www.junkk.com/ideas.asp?slevel=0z622&parent_id=622 to get some hopefully useful options by way of a contribution to that section).
Is it possible to keep such things archived and open a bit longer?
Trouble is, I'm having a problem working it as will be gathered by my posting on the section. However, I have my reasons.
EnvironmentEditor Comment No. 76060October 29 16:17 Blimey, what fantastic tips...
Yes, tips are good. Long may they be shared.
And this looks like a good place to share them. However I must confess to having a few navigational problems.
This thread, obviously, is about light bulbs. And I have more I'd like to share on other things in other enviro-areas. But this is not so easy.
Take my main area of reuse. There is a link to a more promising zone of the Tread Lightly Section, Waste, but when I tried to read more and contribute to Reuse or throw away? the link didn't work and comments were closed (so please go to http://www.junkk.com/ideas.asp?slevel=0z622&parent_id=622 to get some hopefully useful options by way of a contribution to that section).
Is it possible to keep such things archived and open a bit longer?
Reality Bites Again... Literally
Malaria moves in behind the loggers
As most will know, I have a bee in my bonnet about deforestation. Mainly revolving around the logic of cutting down mature trees that are doing what carbon offset saplings may manage in 40 years.
However this adds more to my advocacy.
I have often seen certain insect borne diseases springing up in various locations being put down to global warming. Logically of course, if it does get warmer then the environment will be more appealing. So yes, it is an inevitable consequence.
But I think much more real, and immediate, is all the negative effects of man simply doing what comes unnaturally. Flying from a hotbed of nasties in a sealed tube and in two hours being in a climate-controlled building halfway around the world. With unwelcome co-passengers in the blood stream alkready, or about to get some.
Or, as in the case above, simply trashing the joint.
As most will know, I have a bee in my bonnet about deforestation. Mainly revolving around the logic of cutting down mature trees that are doing what carbon offset saplings may manage in 40 years.
However this adds more to my advocacy.
I have often seen certain insect borne diseases springing up in various locations being put down to global warming. Logically of course, if it does get warmer then the environment will be more appealing. So yes, it is an inevitable consequence.
But I think much more real, and immediate, is all the negative effects of man simply doing what comes unnaturally. Flying from a hotbed of nasties in a sealed tube and in two hours being in a climate-controlled building halfway around the world. With unwelcome co-passengers in the blood stream alkready, or about to get some.
Or, as in the case above, simply trashing the joint.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Bums and seats (I'm the former)
A little while ago I was asked by our local enviro-community group, EnviroAbility, if I could help them with some design work for a new service, rather entertainingly called 'Take A Pew".
Basically it is a furniture reuse project that aims to place reclaimed custom-prepared church pews in new homes. Once it is fully up and running I'll be sharing more on it, both here and on the main site.
I am happy to say that my design was liked and accepted, and even more so that the strapline suggested was too. Shows there is a thick vein of fun still to be found in secular parts!
I wish them well and will do all I can to help. It was great fun, and the results, I hope, are, and will be, worth it.
AWARDS - MediaGuardian Innovation Awards
WHEN: By Friday, 2 Nov
WHAT: MediaGuardian Innovation Awards
WHAT... MORE?: Blurb: If you, your company, or your colleagues have taken part in a truly innovative, forward-thinking project this year or if you’ve pushed the boundaries or pioneered a different way of thinking then you could triumph at the awards ceremony at the O2 arena in March 2008. The MediaGuardian Innovation Awards are open to media owners, clients, agencies and individuals in the UK and feature a high-profile panel of judges from many disciplines and backgrounds who will work hard to select the worthiest winners. If you’ve been part of something that deserves recognition, get your entry in now. But hurry, this is the last call for entries.
HOW MUCH: There's the rub. Not cheap (well to me). £200 + VAT per category. And I could easily enter half a dozen.
URL: mediaguardian.co.uk/awards
COMMENTS: I was going to blow it out, but getting Junkk.com, and RE:tie, and what we're trying to do in front of some heavy hitters judging-wise is tempting. But oh lord, how can you trust it even gets to them?
WHAT: MediaGuardian Innovation Awards
WHAT... MORE?: Blurb: If you, your company, or your colleagues have taken part in a truly innovative, forward-thinking project this year or if you’ve pushed the boundaries or pioneered a different way of thinking then you could triumph at the awards ceremony at the O2 arena in March 2008. The MediaGuardian Innovation Awards are open to media owners, clients, agencies and individuals in the UK and feature a high-profile panel of judges from many disciplines and backgrounds who will work hard to select the worthiest winners. If you’ve been part of something that deserves recognition, get your entry in now. But hurry, this is the last call for entries.
HOW MUCH: There's the rub. Not cheap (well to me). £200 + VAT per category. And I could easily enter half a dozen.
URL: mediaguardian.co.uk/awards
COMMENTS: I was going to blow it out, but getting Junkk.com, and RE:tie, and what we're trying to do in front of some heavy hitters judging-wise is tempting. But oh lord, how can you trust it even gets to them?
And that's all we have time f..
I'll be brief. I have seen some pieces that put the state of government in sharp contrast. This is a small but telling piece on the state of our media: Today for ever
It's actually in the Times' Radio review section, when frankly I think it should be the front page. Especially as 'Today remains the indispensable soundtrack to all that activity for some 6m people.' That's 10% of the population. Or half who vote... ish.
And I do see, and express real frustration at its weakness. No, not everything can be covered in three minutes. And if it cannot, it should not be attempted. Or excused.
It's actually in the Times' Radio review section, when frankly I think it should be the front page. Especially as 'Today remains the indispensable soundtrack to all that activity for some 6m people.' That's 10% of the population. Or half who vote... ish.
And I do see, and express real frustration at its weakness. No, not everything can be covered in three minutes. And if it cannot, it should not be attempted. Or excused.
It's big. It's not so bad. Is it?
Airbus A380 - the complete guide
All I could do was wonder how many media outlets that spend a % of their time (and sincerity) on climate change were on board, simply being taken for a ride. Like their readers.
All I could do was wonder how many media outlets that spend a % of their time (and sincerity) on climate change were on board, simply being taken for a ride. Like their readers.
Recommended maximum alcohol intake
figures issued 20 years ago were numbers that were scientifically ............. plucked entirely out of thin air!
OK, so this is neither eco nor enviro, but it is another example of hogwash 'targets' being set without any scientific basis whatsoever, and then being used to bash the man in the street into changing his habits. See TimesOnline.
Me, I think I'll go along with the World Health Organisation figures, they look much more realistic! Anyone fancy a pint after work?
OK, so this is neither eco nor enviro, but it is another example of hogwash 'targets' being set without any scientific basis whatsoever, and then being used to bash the man in the street into changing his habits. See TimesOnline.
Me, I think I'll go along with the World Health Organisation figures, they look much more realistic! Anyone fancy a pint after work?
'Ah did not have relations with them honours'
In light of the words vs. actions of those who would govern us, this is worth sharing: Aha, the getaway map for anyone planning a cash for honours caper
Times - A sharp little piece of honesty getting under Whitehall’s skin
I'm about ready for a 'why don't the public trust us/engage with politics' chestbeat any time soon.
Oh, then there's this: Brown rewards the PC brigade, not the diligent
Gosh, I am sooo glad I'm trying to found my own business using my savings.
Times - A sharp little piece of honesty getting under Whitehall’s skin
I'm about ready for a 'why don't the public trust us/engage with politics' chestbeat any time soon.
Oh, then there's this: Brown rewards the PC brigade, not the diligent
Gosh, I am sooo glad I'm trying to found my own business using my savings.
Trust me, I'm your leader. I know stuff.
The words of the then Environment Minister still resonate as I read this: Eat your words, all who scoff at organic food
So, who do we believe now? On anything?
All I am sure of is that the organic counter at the local supermarket will be doing a nice new surge of custom.
Times - Official: organic really is better - Depends rather on which official, mind
Guardian - Organic's better. Admit it
So, who do we believe now? On anything?
All I am sure of is that the organic counter at the local supermarket will be doing a nice new surge of custom.
Times - Official: organic really is better - Depends rather on which official, mind
Guardian - Organic's better. Admit it
The Hummer H2...Oh
Mass-market hydrogen car is ready to roll
I always have to start these critiques with 'but I do like the idea of hydrogen'.
Two things. The car may be ready to roll. Getting the fuel into the car in any way that saves the planet... less so.
Plus, let's not forget that car makers don't really want us to travel any less. And whichever way you cut it, it's the travelling that uses the fuel that is simply energy that has to be created somehow.... that, for now, means CO2.
But it's a nice thing to look at for the future. Just let's be careful with the zero emissions claims, eh?
Times - Fuel cells drive into the future -
Times - Up, up and away – the hydrogen car is here
I always have to start these critiques with 'but I do like the idea of hydrogen'.
Two things. The car may be ready to roll. Getting the fuel into the car in any way that saves the planet... less so.
Plus, let's not forget that car makers don't really want us to travel any less. And whichever way you cut it, it's the travelling that uses the fuel that is simply energy that has to be created somehow.... that, for now, means CO2.
But it's a nice thing to look at for the future. Just let's be careful with the zero emissions claims, eh?
Times - Fuel cells drive into the future -
Times - Up, up and away – the hydrogen car is here
RE:PAIR - Car bodywork dings
Another Aunty sent me this; this time all the way from Singapore.It was a video, but I'm too tight to gobble up several Meg on Google cache, so you get just a frame. Ain't brain surgery.
Now, there are a few caveats. I have no clue where you get dry ice. And it looks dangerous if the thickness of that glove is anything to go on.
Plus it may not work, but seemed to on the video (like those are always true). Certainly I can see who creating localised colling would pull the metal tighter.
Call this one a 'possible'. I'll await confirmation before putting it on site.
One good turn...
How do you resist someone who writes to say how nice your site is... and would you mind helping her help others get on TV?
Well, you don't (plus it looks like a nifty show - just watch out for what is said will be shot, what is shot... and what ends up on the cutting room floor).
Karma, I am keeping my fingers crossed.
Climate change bill to be 'stronger'?
Every now and then something the government does surprises me, and this is no exception. The original draft climate change bill has been out for public consultation since last March, something that almost inevitably results in a major watering down of the proposed measures.
But, as reported in the Guardian this afternoon, in this case not; the amended proposals have actually come back with the recommendations potentially strengthened!
For example, they are now talking about including the emissions from the aviation and shipping industries (and quite right too!), and "the revised bill also raises the possibility of raising the emissions reductions further". (Oh, that's spoiled it a little for me, there's that word 'possibility' again.)
"The bill will make the UK the first country to put reducing carbon emissions into law. The bill, to be published next month, will put a legal duty on the government to cut emissions by at least 60% by 2050".
Well, let's see, if we cannot meet the 20% from renewables by 2020, I see it getting rather more difficult to meet a target of reducing ALL emissions by 60% by 2050. But then, of course, this lot won't be in power, and it will be a different government who has to meet (or, of course, lower to something that is achievable) that historically set target.
Addendum:
The proposed bill now also includes for some statutory powers for local councils to "pilot incentives for household waste minimisation and recycling." As reported by letsrecycle.com. And, yes, you've guessed correctly, what that almost certainly means is the introduction of pay as you throw schemes.
However, the statement "Any new schemes must be revenue neutral and should not lead to an increase in the overall cost to local residents." rather fills me with dread. In my experience, 'revenue neutral' normally means I finish up paying more for the same services!
Addendum 2:
There is now a useful Q&A section on the climate change bill in the Guardian too.
But, as reported in the Guardian this afternoon, in this case not; the amended proposals have actually come back with the recommendations potentially strengthened!
For example, they are now talking about including the emissions from the aviation and shipping industries (and quite right too!), and "the revised bill also raises the possibility of raising the emissions reductions further". (Oh, that's spoiled it a little for me, there's that word 'possibility' again.)
"The bill will make the UK the first country to put reducing carbon emissions into law. The bill, to be published next month, will put a legal duty on the government to cut emissions by at least 60% by 2050".
Well, let's see, if we cannot meet the 20% from renewables by 2020, I see it getting rather more difficult to meet a target of reducing ALL emissions by 60% by 2050. But then, of course, this lot won't be in power, and it will be a different government who has to meet (or, of course, lower to something that is achievable) that historically set target.
Addendum:
The proposed bill now also includes for some statutory powers for local councils to "pilot incentives for household waste minimisation and recycling." As reported by letsrecycle.com. And, yes, you've guessed correctly, what that almost certainly means is the introduction of pay as you throw schemes.
However, the statement "Any new schemes must be revenue neutral and should not lead to an increase in the overall cost to local residents." rather fills me with dread. In my experience, 'revenue neutral' normally means I finish up paying more for the same services!
Addendum 2:
There is now a useful Q&A section on the climate change bill in the Guardian too.
IDEA - SpagScale
Having been prodded to do what I really should more (ie: what I'm good at, making stuff down me shed), I have at last added this to the site.
Interesting, but...
I know there's a certain irony in this ad banner being on my site unpaid, let alone at all but hey-ho. Maybe it will be next year's winner?Any Rowan & Martin Laugh-inophiles out there? I give you: Honda Racing F1 takes top accolade at Green Awards
I haven't gone to and through, it all yet, but this time there can be no sense of unsweetened grapes 'cos this year we didn't enter. The small matter of what won last year being 'odd' (to this ex creative-judge adman) and the more major fact that our money was taken to then have two sets of categories subsequently 'amalgamated'. So our modest concept found itself judged against mega-£ quango-funded monsters (who probably have a staffer to enter such things, paid with...?). No change there then, though it looks they +/- £100k categories stayed this time.
And, so, of all the things to laud, it was... an F1 car. All seen that have we? Noted and acted? Reappraised you relationship with F1 have we? Bernie? I'm sure it will stand out well in Singapore as they race all night under burning arc lamps.
'The judging panel awarded the Grand Prix to the campaign which it believed exemplifies an outstanding environmental message and has the greatest capacity to raise awareness among the general public.' I beg to differ. Or, if so, the rest must have been woeful (as always, it will be interesting to see what the comparisons were/are - more often than not you don't get to see).
Apparently, if 1% of fans who follow Formula 1 were to switch to energy saving light bulbs, according to a Honda spokesperson, the resulting energy savings would mitigate the emissions produced over three seasons by Honda's racing team. Or... if you drive a Volks Bluemotion you can use 25,000 plastic bags. But whatever you do, don't stop driving guys! And fast!
As to the rest, I hope you remember them well and were persuaded to act. Were you?
ADDENDUM - Winners - shame we can't see 'em. I'm sure linking to their sites will get you there.
Best Press Advertisement under 100k : Sustrans
Best Press Advertisement over 100k: DEFRA
Best Radio Advertisement: Capital Radio
Best Outdoor Advertisement: Transport for London
Best Website: The Carbon Trust
Best New Media: ECOutlet
Best Direct Mail: Worcestershire County Council - they won last year. Wonder what this one was?
Best Use of Copy: Stop Climate Chaos
Best use of Art Direction: London Borough of Islington
Best CSR Report: The Guardian
Best Internal Communications under 100k: MCM Architecture
Best Internal Communications over 100k: Marks & Spencer - internal... over £100k!
Best Audio Visual under 100k: Stop Climate Chaos
Best Audio Visual over 100k: Central Office of Information and DEFRA
Best Packaging Design: Greenbottle Ltd
Best PR campaign under 100k: Radio Taxis
Best PR Campaign over 100k: Honda
Best Integrated Campaign under 100k: London 21
Best Integrated Campaign over 100k: British Sky Broadcasting
Media Week - Big ads pick up green awards
Times - Bernie Ecclestone holds £10m garage sale
Guardian - Strictly Come Dancing: what would John Stuart Mill make of it? - I pop this in simply to show that even the notion of the 'popular' vote has its limitations. Actually, mixing 'professional' judges with the public seems now to be about as bad a combo as you can get. If only because as a contestant you cannot opt on a strategy that can be directed to please both, and hence will likely fall between the two.
Weather, climate and man inter-related? Never!
A fascinating lightning image I was sent over the weekend by one of my colleagues was a real eye-opener!
And, just for fun, here's a link to a video on You Tube which argues that inaction is not a viable option on climate change. Quite persuasive!
Painting into corners before building the room
I just saw this and saw red: More heat than light
We cannot allow institutions like the World Bank to impose ill-conceived carbon-based energy reforms on developing nations.
Not so much with what was being said, but the presumption of the way it was laid out, and how that played with me and hence mmight with others... such as those who may well need to be persuaded to rethink.
Whatever the merits (or not) of the subsequent piece and its arguments, I would have to opine that anything that starts 'We cannot allow...' rather sets up a few issues of sensible negotiation practice.
Such as who the heck is 'we'? And who put 'you/(or is it presuming...)us' in charge? And in what way are 'we' in a position to 'allow' anything? And doesn't it all rather suggest a mindset that is 'our way is the only way' which doesn't establish a very helpful basis to effect change?
I'll go read it now.
We cannot allow institutions like the World Bank to impose ill-conceived carbon-based energy reforms on developing nations.
Not so much with what was being said, but the presumption of the way it was laid out, and how that played with me and hence mmight with others... such as those who may well need to be persuaded to rethink.
Whatever the merits (or not) of the subsequent piece and its arguments, I would have to opine that anything that starts 'We cannot allow...' rather sets up a few issues of sensible negotiation practice.
Such as who the heck is 'we'? And who put 'you/(or is it presuming...)us' in charge? And in what way are 'we' in a position to 'allow' anything? And doesn't it all rather suggest a mindset that is 'our way is the only way' which doesn't establish a very helpful basis to effect change?
I'll go read it now.
Yet another 'green' quango?
According to the Guardian, Hilary Benn, now of DEFRA, is looking at creating yet another government advisory service to inform citizens just how to 'green' their homes.
They are going "to create a one-stop "green homes service", making it easier for householders to change their lifestyles by offering advice, installation services and loans for equipment such as solar panels".
Now isn't that pretty much the identical remit that the Energy Savings Trust already has? On top of them we have Low Carbon Buildings, ActOnCo2, Blue Skies, the BRE, the Carbon Trust, Sustainable Development Gov. and Envirowise, as well as multiple regional and local council initiatives.
Sorry, but I can help feeling that this is just yet another example of something that our government can shout about - 'look what we've created to help out' - that is simply replicating exactly what's gone before, and achieving, well, probably, absolutely nothing! Not to mention creating another raft of civil servant, gilt-edged pensioned jobs-worth roles, controlled by a set of meaningless and ever changing targets, where promotion is earned and rewards are granted for doing sod all, and where 90% of the funding goes on staff, administration and internal projects!
Everything is talk, quangos, advisory services and waffle.
Where the hell is the DOING?
Addendum:
Even the civil servants themselves reckon the government is failing on climate change!
And, "half-hearted measures are as dangerous as the 1930s appeasement of Hitler".
Addendum (Junkk Male) - When in doubt (and having screwed up with what you have already), hire more: MPs in call for new climate body BBC
They are going "to create a one-stop "green homes service", making it easier for householders to change their lifestyles by offering advice, installation services and loans for equipment such as solar panels".
Now isn't that pretty much the identical remit that the Energy Savings Trust already has? On top of them we have Low Carbon Buildings, ActOnCo2, Blue Skies, the BRE, the Carbon Trust, Sustainable Development Gov. and Envirowise, as well as multiple regional and local council initiatives.
Sorry, but I can help feeling that this is just yet another example of something that our government can shout about - 'look what we've created to help out' - that is simply replicating exactly what's gone before, and achieving, well, probably, absolutely nothing! Not to mention creating another raft of civil servant, gilt-edged pensioned jobs-worth roles, controlled by a set of meaningless and ever changing targets, where promotion is earned and rewards are granted for doing sod all, and where 90% of the funding goes on staff, administration and internal projects!
Everything is talk, quangos, advisory services and waffle.
Where the hell is the DOING?
Addendum:
Even the civil servants themselves reckon the government is failing on climate change!
And, "half-hearted measures are as dangerous as the 1930s appeasement of Hitler".
Addendum (Junkk Male) - When in doubt (and having screwed up with what you have already), hire more: MPs in call for new climate body BBC
Light weights
Light bulbs - making the switch
davenorfolk - Anyone have suggestions for other useful uk sites on the same subject?
If you are into reuse as a positive, proactive notion you may fancy http://www.junkk.com/
For complements to the light ideas of this thread, there's such as this:
http://www.junkk.com/newsarticle.asp?slevel=0z608&parent_id=608&renleewtsapf=97
Plus discussion, too. I am grateful to the share of the sust-it site.
There may be one already, but when it comes to listings and comparisons, on low-energy I am keen to find an easy to weigh long-life measures, too.
I find a lot of shops will sell something that seems a good deal but serves pockets and planet poorly by blowing within months.
So far the key is to write the date of installation on the body and point out the maths of the lifespan to the retailer if they fail well before time. Not ideal, but may encourage a move to better standards of reliability which will also help the global enviROI of the industry too.
davenorfolk - Anyone have suggestions for other useful uk sites on the same subject?
If you are into reuse as a positive, proactive notion you may fancy http://www.junkk.com/
For complements to the light ideas of this thread, there's such as this:
http://www.junkk.com/newsarticle.asp?slevel=0z608&parent_id=608&renleewtsapf=97
Plus discussion, too. I am grateful to the share of the sust-it site.
There may be one already, but when it comes to listings and comparisons, on low-energy I am keen to find an easy to weigh long-life measures, too.
I find a lot of shops will sell something that seems a good deal but serves pockets and planet poorly by blowing within months.
So far the key is to write the date of installation on the body and point out the maths of the lifespan to the retailer if they fail well before time. Not ideal, but may encourage a move to better standards of reliability which will also help the global enviROI of the industry too.
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