Just had to pop this up, if only because I thought disco went out when I was in wide lapels.
PR as provided, E&OE: World's First Eco Disco Launches This Thursday!
CLUB4CLIMATE THIS THURSDAY FOR THE LAUNCH OF
THE WORLD’S FIRST ECOLOGICAL NIGHT CLUB
GRAND OPENING OF SURYA AND LAUNCH OF TEN POINT MANIFESTO
THURSDAY 10TH JULY @ SURYA, KINGS CROSS, LONDON
Each week millions upon millions of exuberant human beings head out of their houses and into nightclubs to expend large amounts of energy on the dance-floor. Mobilising vast social groups each and every week clubbing remains one of the few areas of society untouched by the green message. All this is about to change as Dr. Earth plans to launch the world’s first eco-disco and unveil a 10 point manifesto for all club owners and promoters across the world to adopt and do their bit, however small, towards saving the planet.
On the evening a number of green ambassadors will take to the decks to support Dr. Earth. Jade Jagger needs no introduction. She is the fashion designer du jour and has also stamped her mark on the music industry whilst her partner Dan Williams has been described as ‘the best party DJ ever’ by credible music industry heads such as Bestival’s Rob Da Bank and Radio 1 DJ Pete Tong. World renowned DJ’s, Coldcut whose anti – corporate, anti – authoritarian, ecological vision is well documented have created a special eco AV set for the evening. Queens of Noize unique, chaotic and cool delivery of disco tracks have assured their regal status amongst the current school of Rock n’ Roll DJ’s whilst Nathan Detroit has toured the world with his mix of mash-up music as Fatboy Slim’s support DJ.
Club4Climate and its figurehead Dr. Earth will launch Surya in King’s Cross as the world’s first ecological club, creating a green-print for others to follow. Surya itself will go beyond the concept of sustainability and into the realm of ecology, generating surplus energy to power not only the club but also neighbouring properties. Recognising the need to engender a ‘gentle revolution’ Club4Climate support the notion that it is better to include millions and not just ‘the few’ and that we each have our part to play.
Surya will put its stake in the ground as the first ever-ecological club on the planet, a flagship venture and a pioneer of ecological excellence.
The club will have a unique dance-floor, combining materials such as quartz crystals, ceramics, cutting edge technology and the dancing motion of clubbers to generate part of the club’s energy requirements.
· A wind turbine and a solar energy system will make the club fully sustainable
· An advanced alternative energy system so effective that it will produce a surplus of electricity, which will be freely donated to the private residents closest to the building.
· The club will also be installing the latest air flush, waterless urinals, low flush toilets and automatic taps to ensure maximum water saving plus the latest innovations in ecological air conditioning units.
I'm guessing the water being chugged all night still might not be tap, mind. Can't have everything, I guess.
And I'll be impressed if a Kings X roof and turbine crank up enough juice to have a surplus. I'll be fascinated to check out the system.
Have to be before 10pm, of course. Waaaay past my bedtime.
Greenbang - NEW - London gets eco nightclub - Seems others got the release, too.
Tuesday, July 08, 2008
REPAIR - The trouble is you'll soon fancy another
I pass this one on as it's certainly worth a try.
My lovely Singapore auntie has passed on a cutting that links to a Yahoo group that I can't access or figure out, so you'll just have to take my version.
Basically if you drop anything electronic - mobile, iPod, Blackberry - in water it's pretty much a goner.
However... there is a last ditch solution: rice.
If it isn't already, switch it off and get it in sealed container of rise asap.
24 hrs later you may find you're back to being good to go.
I am guessing that a container of silica gel will work even better, but you can't eat it afterwards, whereas, depending on where you dropped the thing (loo or a puddle probably not a good idea you might want to risk it.
I figure salt water is pretty much a killer any which way.
My lovely Singapore auntie has passed on a cutting that links to a Yahoo group that I can't access or figure out, so you'll just have to take my version.
Basically if you drop anything electronic - mobile, iPod, Blackberry - in water it's pretty much a goner.
However... there is a last ditch solution: rice.
If it isn't already, switch it off and get it in sealed container of rise asap.
24 hrs later you may find you're back to being good to go.
I am guessing that a container of silica gel will work even better, but you can't eat it afterwards, whereas, depending on where you dropped the thing (loo or a puddle probably not a good idea you might want to risk it.
I figure salt water is pretty much a killer any which way.
Save the trees. And reading.
Ignoring the whole 'servers cooking the planet' counter-argument (which they kinda are/will whatever), this is an interesting thread on paper vs. online.
ONLINE VERSIONS OF MAGAZINES - GOOD? BAD? JUST PLAIN WRONG?
I have note weighed in on the eco aspects as this is not what it's about, but I have to say there is another aspect.
And that is, of the several digital efforts I have subscribed to, I have yet to read one. Just can't seem to get the mood to work with the tech. Yet on a Sunday PM in the garden I hoover through a good dozen.
Go figure.
ONLINE VERSIONS OF MAGAZINES - GOOD? BAD? JUST PLAIN WRONG?
I have note weighed in on the eco aspects as this is not what it's about, but I have to say there is another aspect.
And that is, of the several digital efforts I have subscribed to, I have yet to read one. Just can't seem to get the mood to work with the tech. Yet on a Sunday PM in the garden I hoover through a good dozen.
Go figure.
Monday, July 07, 2008
PR OPPORTUNITY - Ch 4 Show 'Dream Farms'
I've had a call from my chum Tracey at Downshifting Week passing on a potential PR opportunity for any green-minded folk who might fit this bill.
It's from Rachel of production company 'betty':
I am currently researching a 6 part series for Channel 4 called: Dream Farms (working title). The aim of the series is to follow a number of people as they pursue their dreams of leaving city life and stresses behind, in favour of setting up a small holding, or farm. The series would aim to film over the course of a year– so key moments in the farming calendar would be captured. Its early days, but we are very keen to speak to anyone who may be about to embark on such a venture. All types of agriculturally related projects are of interest, from the traditional, to perhaps the more obscure (or becoming less so) Alpaca farming.
Throughout the series we will be looking to enlist an expert, or range of experts, who will be able to offer practical support and guidance to individuals, as they attempt to get their projects off the ground.
As you can tell, it’s quite broad brushed at the moment and I am very open to new ideas and thoughts. Any conversations would initially be for research purposes.
If you think you may meet the brief and are interested, email her direct at Rachel.Hellings@betty.co.uk
It's from Rachel of production company 'betty':
I am currently researching a 6 part series for Channel 4 called: Dream Farms (working title). The aim of the series is to follow a number of people as they pursue their dreams of leaving city life and stresses behind, in favour of setting up a small holding, or farm. The series would aim to film over the course of a year– so key moments in the farming calendar would be captured. Its early days, but we are very keen to speak to anyone who may be about to embark on such a venture. All types of agriculturally related projects are of interest, from the traditional, to perhaps the more obscure (or becoming less so) Alpaca farming.
Throughout the series we will be looking to enlist an expert, or range of experts, who will be able to offer practical support and guidance to individuals, as they attempt to get their projects off the ground.
As you can tell, it’s quite broad brushed at the moment and I am very open to new ideas and thoughts. Any conversations would initially be for research purposes.
If you think you may meet the brief and are interested, email her direct at Rachel.Hellings@betty.co.uk
AWARD/COMPETITION - The PICNIC Green Challenge 2008
WHEN: Deadline July 31
WHAT: The PICNIC Green Challenge 2008
WHAT... MORE?: From the site. SAVE THE PLANET AND WIN €500,000!
The PICNIC Green Challenge is for people who can instigate change- creative and innovative thought leaders and their organisations. Take the challenge!
We're looking for products and services that contribute to an eco-friendly lifestyle, directly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and score highly on convenience, quality and design.
HOW MUCH: Looks free.
URL: http://www.greenchallenge.info/
COMMENTS: I think we tried last year. Can't hurt. Make sure you have any IP sorted!
WHAT: The PICNIC Green Challenge 2008
WHAT... MORE?: From the site. SAVE THE PLANET AND WIN €500,000!
The PICNIC Green Challenge is for people who can instigate change- creative and innovative thought leaders and their organisations. Take the challenge!
We're looking for products and services that contribute to an eco-friendly lifestyle, directly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and score highly on convenience, quality and design.
HOW MUCH: Looks free.
URL: http://www.greenchallenge.info/
COMMENTS: I think we tried last year. Can't hurt. Make sure you have any IP sorted!
Look Out Soup Dragon! Duck Tobermoray!
WALL-E
Looks a hoot. Might even spark a few more Clangers and Wombles.
Indy - Wall-E: One giant beep for mankind
Looks a hoot. Might even spark a few more Clangers and Wombles.
Indy - Wall-E: One giant beep for mankind
Saturday, July 05, 2008
Taking the strain. Or is the p*ss?
Agendas to set. Boxes to tick. Targets to meet.
Eurocrats demand police protection from real world
Our policymakers in action. Note the comment about it being set up to look green but probably acting in addition and parallel to still doing something that is not.
Eurocrats demand police protection from real world
Our policymakers in action. Note the comment about it being set up to look green but probably acting in addition and parallel to still doing something that is not.
Friday, July 04, 2008
AWARD/COMPETITION - Data Mashup
WHEN: The competition will close at the end of September and the winner will be announced in the second week of October.
WHAT: From their site. This is a competition about information, about communication and above all about making government information more useful.
The government produces masses of information on what is happening around the UK. Infomation on crime, on health, on education. However, this information is often hidden away in obscure publications or odd corners of websites. Data tucked away like this isn't of use to the ultimate owner of that information YOU.
The Power of Information Taskforce want to hear your ideas on how to reuse, represent, mashup or combine the information the government holds to make it useful.The next best thing is to point you at the explanation in the Guardian, where I found it first.
WHAT... MORE?: Check the site.
HOW MUCH: Looks free. With a £20k prize!
URL: http://www.showusabetterwayentryform.co.uk/
COMMENTS: If you have some use for data, and the measn to put it to good use, as Junkk.com does, might be worth a punt! Mind you, this story - UK.gov launches data mash-up competition - from the Register, spins it another way.
Addendum: Had a quick scope and have a few first thought:
Tempting.
However, I am a little concerned about IP/idea protection.
Yes there is the potential of a £20k prize, but if it's a goodie then surely the idea will be worth/generate a lot more?
The FAQ on the site clearly outlines the first, and most major danger in this regard, namely (and unlike a patent or trademark) an 'idea' a lot trickier to protect.
It's one thing to be viewed by a limited number of judges (though in the case of some gov/quango efforts I have been part of, possibly even worse), but here your concept is laid out raw and ready to rip.
And I'm hard pressed to think how many decent notions involving the use and/or manipulation of data won't be essentially web-based ideas and rather open to... 'homage'.
The trick would seem to be to tempt in the submission enough to generate a bite, but without giving away too much.
WHAT: From their site. This is a competition about information, about communication and above all about making government information more useful.
The government produces masses of information on what is happening around the UK. Infomation on crime, on health, on education. However, this information is often hidden away in obscure publications or odd corners of websites. Data tucked away like this isn't of use to the ultimate owner of that information YOU.
The Power of Information Taskforce want to hear your ideas on how to reuse, represent, mashup or combine the information the government holds to make it useful.The next best thing is to point you at the explanation in the Guardian, where I found it first.
WHAT... MORE?: Check the site.
HOW MUCH: Looks free. With a £20k prize!
URL: http://www.showusabetterwayentryform.co.uk/
COMMENTS: If you have some use for data, and the measn to put it to good use, as Junkk.com does, might be worth a punt! Mind you, this story - UK.gov launches data mash-up competition - from the Register, spins it another way.
Addendum: Had a quick scope and have a few first thought:
Tempting.
However, I am a little concerned about IP/idea protection.
Yes there is the potential of a £20k prize, but if it's a goodie then surely the idea will be worth/generate a lot more?
The FAQ on the site clearly outlines the first, and most major danger in this regard, namely (and unlike a patent or trademark) an 'idea' a lot trickier to protect.
It's one thing to be viewed by a limited number of judges (though in the case of some gov/quango efforts I have been part of, possibly even worse), but here your concept is laid out raw and ready to rip.
And I'm hard pressed to think how many decent notions involving the use and/or manipulation of data won't be essentially web-based ideas and rather open to... 'homage'.
The trick would seem to be to tempt in the submission enough to generate a bite, but without giving away too much.
'It must be good; we spent millions on it'
I am grateful to Dave of Solarventi for this link to one the greater 'Well, d'uh's' of the year:
Government ads for climate change need a new approach
And just how much has been blown on massive green-related comms efforts to date, until just now coming to the realisation that 'The 3 'E's' (entertainment, engagement and end-benefit) are more likely to work than nanny, nag, guilt, fine or fear?
Any nitwit can do a 'we're all doomed/look how awful things are' ad and stick a 'well don't do it' finger wag and URL in the final 5 seconds to log a box tick for 'awareness'.
To effect change, the tricky bit is actually motivating folk to turn from screen and act differently... whilst not minding at all. That ain't so easy, and takes a bit of thought... but it can be done.
As almost no one currently blowing vast budgets trying seems to have managed, maybe we need new bloods commissioning, creating and approving beyond the current crop of unaccountable Gov depts, open-chequebook quangos and their generous SoHo post-strategy dining hosts... and production/media budget beneficiaries (with doubtless some truly spectacular offsetting at work here as well come invoicing time)?
Government ads for climate change need a new approach
And just how much has been blown on massive green-related comms efforts to date, until just now coming to the realisation that 'The 3 'E's' (entertainment, engagement and end-benefit) are more likely to work than nanny, nag, guilt, fine or fear?
Any nitwit can do a 'we're all doomed/look how awful things are' ad and stick a 'well don't do it' finger wag and URL in the final 5 seconds to log a box tick for 'awareness'.
To effect change, the tricky bit is actually motivating folk to turn from screen and act differently... whilst not minding at all. That ain't so easy, and takes a bit of thought... but it can be done.
As almost no one currently blowing vast budgets trying seems to have managed, maybe we need new bloods commissioning, creating and approving beyond the current crop of unaccountable Gov depts, open-chequebook quangos and their generous SoHo post-strategy dining hosts... and production/media budget beneficiaries (with doubtless some truly spectacular offsetting at work here as well come invoicing time)?
Just one teensy-weensy question ......
.... are all the prospective guests traveling there by sailboat?
I can't help asking this. Starting eco-friendly holiday resorts seems to be becoming all the rage at the moment, as this from the Sydney Morning Herald exemplifies. It just seems rather incongruous that the only way of reaching Branson's proposed resort on Mosquito Island will be to fly there.
Perhaps they will only be using Virgin aircraft powered solely on bio-fuel?
I can't help asking this. Starting eco-friendly holiday resorts seems to be becoming all the rage at the moment, as this from the Sydney Morning Herald exemplifies. It just seems rather incongruous that the only way of reaching Branson's proposed resort on Mosquito Island will be to fly there.
Perhaps they will only be using Virgin aircraft powered solely on bio-fuel?
Thursday, July 03, 2008
Nice jugs... or a big boob?
When I was an avid ad-man I was involved (at the very end) of many a new product launch.
By my point all was sorted, save the bit that told the consumer what the thing was, how it worked and why they could not now live without it.
All this was in the creative brief, which had the key points, but also usually came supported by telephone directories of other guff such as customer research and consumer trial data.
You don't make a massive investment in a brand new product, requiring all sorts of new kit, and then advertise it, requiring all sorts of munny, without first making sure it works.
Or... possibly... not.
Wal-Mart’s New Milk Jug Cuts Costs, Customers Cry Over Spilt Milk
Interesting to see how this new 'eco-inovation' is shaping up.
New ‘Green’ Milk Jugs Not Cutting it with Consumers
By my point all was sorted, save the bit that told the consumer what the thing was, how it worked and why they could not now live without it.
All this was in the creative brief, which had the key points, but also usually came supported by telephone directories of other guff such as customer research and consumer trial data.
You don't make a massive investment in a brand new product, requiring all sorts of new kit, and then advertise it, requiring all sorts of munny, without first making sure it works.
Or... possibly... not.
Wal-Mart’s New Milk Jug Cuts Costs, Customers Cry Over Spilt Milk
Interesting to see how this new 'eco-inovation' is shaping up.
New ‘Green’ Milk Jugs Not Cutting it with Consumers
Wednesday, July 02, 2008
Looking out for your neighbours?
Or going beyond the limits of acceptability? This is not enviro related but is one of those stories that makes you think "what if it had happened here?".
The full report is from ABCNews, and concerns a certain Joe Horn, who shot and killed two burglars attempting to break into his neighbour's house.
Now here in the UK, Joe Horn would already be serving a long sentence for manslaughter; over the other side of the pond, a grand jury actually declined to indict him, so he will not even be facing trial.
Here you can be 'done' for putting the wrong recyclables into the incorrect recycling bin. It rather makes you think, doesn't it?
The full report is from ABCNews, and concerns a certain Joe Horn, who shot and killed two burglars attempting to break into his neighbour's house.
Now here in the UK, Joe Horn would already be serving a long sentence for manslaughter; over the other side of the pond, a grand jury actually declined to indict him, so he will not even be facing trial.
Here you can be 'done' for putting the wrong recyclables into the incorrect recycling bin. It rather makes you think, doesn't it?
Red flag!
Petrolheads take to life in the slow lane
Just noticing a few comments in the main piece and thread that seem to suggest that the solution to getting back up to speed is just to go 'alternative', such as electric/hybrid.
How are these 'free' sources of non-polluting, carbon-neutral energy generated again?
I do believe it's what it takes to get the wheels turning that matters for pocket and planet; not what goes in the tank.
Just noticing a few comments in the main piece and thread that seem to suggest that the solution to getting back up to speed is just to go 'alternative', such as electric/hybrid.
How are these 'free' sources of non-polluting, carbon-neutral energy generated again?
I do believe it's what it takes to get the wheels turning that matters for pocket and planet; not what goes in the tank.
C... ohhhh... too?
This deserves its own little slot. Hey, what's £100B amongst chums?
How the government fluffed its renewables numbers
Frankly it should be front page.
'Apparently somebody got carbon and CO2 mixed up, said an official.'
'But the subsequent point tells a more interesting and worrying story: reductions in 2020 are interesting, but surely the total reduction in greenhouse gas emissions the UK buys with its £100bn is even more important. The government, it seems, is worried about ticking boxes in Brussels, but has lost sight of the big picture.'
How the government fluffed its renewables numbers
Frankly it should be front page.
'Apparently somebody got carbon and CO2 mixed up, said an official.'
'But the subsequent point tells a more interesting and worrying story: reductions in 2020 are interesting, but surely the total reduction in greenhouse gas emissions the UK buys with its £100bn is even more important. The government, it seems, is worried about ticking boxes in Brussels, but has lost sight of the big picture.'
Tuesday, July 01, 2008
Oh.... scrapstore
Computer autocorrects surname "gay" to.. no, you guess
On my little enviro site we often have occasion to use the word 'scrapstore'.
Sadly we have a cheap and cheerful, but rather unsophisticated 'naughty word' filter that means this very useful resource is very hard to refer to;(
I'm guessing there may well be others, too.
On my little enviro site we often have occasion to use the word 'scrapstore'.
Sadly we have a cheap and cheerful, but rather unsophisticated 'naughty word' filter that means this very useful resource is very hard to refer to;(
I'm guessing there may well be others, too.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Battery recycling coming to the UK
Well, the collection of used batteries is - the actual recycling will be undertaken in Le Havre, France.
Odd that we don't seem to have the means or intentions to recycle them on our side of the channel. I wonder if they are going to ship back over the outputs which "can then be used in smelting works, cement factories and also as road building materials"?
Full story from Letsrecycle.com.
Odd that we don't seem to have the means or intentions to recycle them on our side of the channel. I wonder if they are going to ship back over the outputs which "can then be used in smelting works, cement factories and also as road building materials"?
Full story from Letsrecycle.com.
Worried about Peak Oil?
And wondering what plans our Gov has to account for the forthcoming oil supply crunch?
Well, rather surprisingly, our Gov seems to think that oil supplies will not be a problem and that our economy will continue to sustain and grow as the UK's demand for oil continues to grow too.
Most experts within the oil business itself believe that peak oil will create a major economic headache for the western world and most western governments are actually making contingency plans - well, except ours.
Not compulsory, of course, but if you would like to lobby our Gov to actually DO something please feel free to sign up to the following Downing Street petition.
Well, rather surprisingly, our Gov seems to think that oil supplies will not be a problem and that our economy will continue to sustain and grow as the UK's demand for oil continues to grow too.
Most experts within the oil business itself believe that peak oil will create a major economic headache for the western world and most western governments are actually making contingency plans - well, except ours.
Not compulsory, of course, but if you would like to lobby our Gov to actually DO something please feel free to sign up to the following Downing Street petition.
JUNKK - Festivals
ARTICLES
Guardian - Heading for the green fields
For what it's worth, 'The Big Green Gathering' (located not too far from Glastonbury in Somerset) seemed to have its heart in the right place and has a nice vibe. My wife was asked to perform with her band so we decided to make it a family camping break. I was just keen to scope what might be out there in the world of enviro stuff. A few fun stalls but I'd have to say a few DIY/Home shows at the NEC I've been to probably covered more, more thoroughly.
As the piece indicates, I did also have slight trouble reconciling a bunch of folk traveling from all over the place basically to consume (no matter how 'greenly'), especially as most of us were getting there in cars (reason, if not excuse: ours was packed to the gunnels with camping and muso kit). And looking at the number of belching old campers and/or brand new pristine 4x4s in the car park I'd say the rest of the new age/new green brigade had decided to live with the irony.
Frankly I am rather feeling most festivals/concerts should just get on with doing what they were mainly designed to do, and as best they can meet some common sense, practical and reasonable CSR obligations (minimal impact, leave it as you found it (or better), the various 'R's). Mitigation is of course great, and to an extent worth sharing, but I'd also try and avoid too much sanctimonious planet-pushing if the enviROI of having it is higher than not.
Especially if the excuse for the shortfall is 'awareness'. A few too many folk are make a wee bit too much money pumping out extra CO2 in the name of reducing it, and that does not add up to me.
INFO
agreenerfestival.com
Biggreengathering
sunrisecelebration.com
Guardian - Heading for the green fields
For what it's worth, 'The Big Green Gathering' (located not too far from Glastonbury in Somerset) seemed to have its heart in the right place and has a nice vibe. My wife was asked to perform with her band so we decided to make it a family camping break. I was just keen to scope what might be out there in the world of enviro stuff. A few fun stalls but I'd have to say a few DIY/Home shows at the NEC I've been to probably covered more, more thoroughly.
As the piece indicates, I did also have slight trouble reconciling a bunch of folk traveling from all over the place basically to consume (no matter how 'greenly'), especially as most of us were getting there in cars (reason, if not excuse: ours was packed to the gunnels with camping and muso kit). And looking at the number of belching old campers and/or brand new pristine 4x4s in the car park I'd say the rest of the new age/new green brigade had decided to live with the irony.
Frankly I am rather feeling most festivals/concerts should just get on with doing what they were mainly designed to do, and as best they can meet some common sense, practical and reasonable CSR obligations (minimal impact, leave it as you found it (or better), the various 'R's). Mitigation is of course great, and to an extent worth sharing, but I'd also try and avoid too much sanctimonious planet-pushing if the enviROI of having it is higher than not.
Especially if the excuse for the shortfall is 'awareness'. A few too many folk are make a wee bit too much money pumping out extra CO2 in the name of reducing it, and that does not add up to me.
INFO
agreenerfestival.com
Biggreengathering
sunrisecelebration.com
New NASA Climate Change Website
NASA has launched a new climate change website - see NASA Website.
The site provides a plethora of data, including some quite scary time series flash animations (click on the Climate Time Machine tag), plus loads of very considered but reasonably concise documentation.
Well worth a visit.
The site provides a plethora of data, including some quite scary time series flash animations (click on the Climate Time Machine tag), plus loads of very considered but reasonably concise documentation.
Well worth a visit.
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Gordon the green engine .......
OK, Gordon the 'green' PM. As he today announced a 'green revolution' of measures including the development of thousands more wind turbines and a push for much more energy from other types of renewables as part of a £100bn plan to boost renewable energy across the UK. Full story from the Beeb.
£100 Billion - now that's a serious wad of cash - how is the Gov going to fund it? Oh, "Household bills are expected to increase as a result of the measures". Ahhh, I see, we are all going to pay for it.
And who will manage the 'plan'? Well, I've just read it again and it is not really a plan, it's more of a 'vision' or even a 'strategy'.
So it all looks yet again like another vapour-ware initiative - all sound bites and no actual 'doing'. Not so much a 'green engine', more of a wisp of 'green hot air'.
Been there, done that, got the T-shirt; anyone else getting that old 'Deja Vu' feeling?
£100 Billion - now that's a serious wad of cash - how is the Gov going to fund it? Oh, "Household bills are expected to increase as a result of the measures". Ahhh, I see, we are all going to pay for it.
And who will manage the 'plan'? Well, I've just read it again and it is not really a plan, it's more of a 'vision' or even a 'strategy'.
So it all looks yet again like another vapour-ware initiative - all sound bites and no actual 'doing'. Not so much a 'green engine', more of a wisp of 'green hot air'.
Been there, done that, got the T-shirt; anyone else getting that old 'Deja Vu' feeling?
The image of rubbish
As an ad man I think I am pretty much aware of most 'techniques' used, and also what might and might not work.It often depends on context, and the interplay of words and image, but I am not a big fan of negatives.
Look at this ad.
It's actually about a very good, positive thing: a consultation (here - if your are in HR and interested) on the provision of waste collection services in our fair county .
But really, given what you see here, would you want to be part?
Why of why is the comms aspect of our green agendas so expensive (that a full-page, full colour ad), yet so woeful?
All the unfounded opinion that's unfit to broadcast
To the BBC:
I today on BBC Breakfast News watched a possibly sincere but lightweight attempt at dealing with a serious issue: fuel costs and mitigating actions.
In the course of my morning viewing I saw two of the slots devoted to this.
In one a 'reader's tip' was read out to suggest I ran my car with a half-empty tank on the possibly rational explanation that one is lugging less weight.
Later on, another read out flatly contradicted this, saying the void left encouraged evaporation.
To be fair, the hapless reporter and studio reporters did rather lose it and suggest that 'maybe they need to find out'.
Much as I know the BBC is addicted to viewers' input, may I suggest that on matters of subjective fact, as a supposed news programme you blooming well find out what is the correct information FIRST before broadcasting it?
Or at least have informed, educated moderators to hand to put things in context?
Any commuter who left without seeing any clarification at the end of the programme (if there was I missed it) will now be either ill-informed or totally confused.
Which is about right for the state of green-related reporting and editorial on the BBC these days.
It's serious. Treat it so. And hire guys who know what they are on about.
I today on BBC Breakfast News watched a possibly sincere but lightweight attempt at dealing with a serious issue: fuel costs and mitigating actions.
In the course of my morning viewing I saw two of the slots devoted to this.
In one a 'reader's tip' was read out to suggest I ran my car with a half-empty tank on the possibly rational explanation that one is lugging less weight.
Later on, another read out flatly contradicted this, saying the void left encouraged evaporation.
To be fair, the hapless reporter and studio reporters did rather lose it and suggest that 'maybe they need to find out'.
Much as I know the BBC is addicted to viewers' input, may I suggest that on matters of subjective fact, as a supposed news programme you blooming well find out what is the correct information FIRST before broadcasting it?
Or at least have informed, educated moderators to hand to put things in context?
Any commuter who left without seeing any clarification at the end of the programme (if there was I missed it) will now be either ill-informed or totally confused.
Which is about right for the state of green-related reporting and editorial on the BBC these days.
It's serious. Treat it so. And hire guys who know what they are on about.
CATEGORY - CYCLING
Issues
BBC - Parents 'stop children cycling' - Heart says yes; had says 'nice try, gov/media combo'. Took the boys out for a jaunt and almost got mown down. They will not cycle without me (not that I would have afforded much beyond a source of blood) until much older.
BBC - The bicycle backlash unfolds - The law of unintended consequences? Or just rubbish planning?
Guardian - The wheel of generosity - As interesting for where it is printed as what it is saying. And, if true, the numbers quoted in the post and subsequent comments do give cause to cock an enviROI eyebrow.
Times - Try cycling the wheelbarrow to work - an option, if you have the money and surroundings
Indy - NEW - Back in the saddle: Why the Government wants more children cycling to school
Sites
UK
bikeability.org.uk
bikeit -
cyclingengland.co.uk
Media
BBC Green - Biking for beginners
Sunday Times - Bike Clinic & Backpedaller
Sunday Times - Webwise: everything you wanted to know about cycling - Well, a fair bit maybe, but not all.
Sunday Telegraph - Maybe Cameron should take a taxi? - I include this less as something to add to any info on the joys and options of cycling, but more to show how, like Climate Change, it has become polarised (if not politicised) beyond any rational discourse.
BBC - Parents 'stop children cycling' - Heart says yes; had says 'nice try, gov/media combo'. Took the boys out for a jaunt and almost got mown down. They will not cycle without me (not that I would have afforded much beyond a source of blood) until much older.
BBC - The bicycle backlash unfolds - The law of unintended consequences? Or just rubbish planning?
Guardian - The wheel of generosity - As interesting for where it is printed as what it is saying. And, if true, the numbers quoted in the post and subsequent comments do give cause to cock an enviROI eyebrow.
Times - Try cycling the wheelbarrow to work - an option, if you have the money and surroundings
Indy - NEW - Back in the saddle: Why the Government wants more children cycling to school
Sites
UK
bikeability.org.uk
bikeit -
cyclingengland.co.uk
Media
BBC Green - Biking for beginners
Sunday Times - Bike Clinic & Backpedaller
Sunday Times - Webwise: everything you wanted to know about cycling - Well, a fair bit maybe, but not all.
Sunday Telegraph - Maybe Cameron should take a taxi? - I include this less as something to add to any info on the joys and options of cycling, but more to show how, like Climate Change, it has become polarised (if not politicised) beyond any rational discourse.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Know your [insert relevant noun here]
Prey? Enemy? Target? In most forms, not my favourite group.
Can the lobbyists be stopped?
And to know 'em, is to, well, know 'em.
Some interesting replies already. Mine:
A register. That'll do it.
Just like not requiring a DoB on a CV will prevent ageism-related employment practices.
Gotta love the notion that if it's on paper it can't be circumvented in a millisecond in other ways.
Guardian - Confusing politics with science - I was looking for a place to stick this. As the word is used, I guess here'll do. As well as noting the public interest possibly not being served by most 'sides' arguing over our futures. At least a few in the thread see that being 'right' doesn't mean diddly if the public doesn't get on board.
Can the lobbyists be stopped?
And to know 'em, is to, well, know 'em.
Some interesting replies already. Mine:
A register. That'll do it.
Just like not requiring a DoB on a CV will prevent ageism-related employment practices.
Gotta love the notion that if it's on paper it can't be circumvented in a millisecond in other ways.
Guardian - Confusing politics with science - I was looking for a place to stick this. As the word is used, I guess here'll do. As well as noting the public interest possibly not being served by most 'sides' arguing over our futures. At least a few in the thread see that being 'right' doesn't mean diddly if the public doesn't get on board.
Interesting, but...
I stumbled across this en route to another piece.
Long hours and obsession with minutiae. No 10's private man
It could so easily have been passed over as yet another in the endless series of chatterati-calls drones we get subjected to these days, but my eye alighted on the first 'example' cited - 'whether the government should impose a deposit on bottles of soft drinks and beer, to encourage people to return them.'
Sadly, I for now remain none the wiser. It is to be hoped that, at some stage, an answer, and a good decision, may ensue. But maybe a newer process will take precedence over actually delivering any result. Another POOR - Show (Process Over Obvious Result, mainly for show). It seems to be a trend.
Long hours and obsession with minutiae. No 10's private man
It could so easily have been passed over as yet another in the endless series of chatterati-calls drones we get subjected to these days, but my eye alighted on the first 'example' cited - 'whether the government should impose a deposit on bottles of soft drinks and beer, to encourage people to return them.'
Sadly, I for now remain none the wiser. It is to be hoped that, at some stage, an answer, and a good decision, may ensue. But maybe a newer process will take precedence over actually delivering any result. Another POOR - Show (Process Over Obvious Result, mainly for show). It seems to be a trend.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
This is going to hurt!
And that applies to all of us. It will be of little surprise to everyone that energy bills are going to rise again later this year; but it may come as a surprise to anyone already struggling with household bills that the level of increase may be in the region of 30% to 40%! Full story is from the Telegraph.
Strewth! A rise of that ilk is going to push a hell of a lot more people into 'fuel poverty' (the Gov's rather quirky term for those that cannot afford to pay to keep themselves warm).
And while oil prices do not seem to be showing any indication of coming down, despite some key analysts claiming the current price is 'spiked' due to speculators, the value of your house looks set to plummet!
Everything is beginning to look like complete doom and gloom! Yet I keep hearing people from our Gov scoffing every time anyone mentions the 'Recession' word!
Strewth! A rise of that ilk is going to push a hell of a lot more people into 'fuel poverty' (the Gov's rather quirky term for those that cannot afford to pay to keep themselves warm).
And while oil prices do not seem to be showing any indication of coming down, despite some key analysts claiming the current price is 'spiked' due to speculators, the value of your house looks set to plummet!
Everything is beginning to look like complete doom and gloom! Yet I keep hearing people from our Gov scoffing every time anyone mentions the 'Recession' word!
EVENT - Bristol Design Festival/Eco-Design Show
UPDATED INFO
WHEN: From the now 'til at least July 6, if not a bit longer, like the 18th (tbc - now confirmed!)
WHAT: Bristol Design Festival - Eco Design Show
WHAT... MORE?: The Bristol Design Festival is an annual celebration of creativity, design and innovation in Bristol and the South West. Presented by a group of volunteers who believe passionately about design and the city of Bristol. They believe it is about time Bristol and the South West got the recognition it deserves as a region of design excellence and a hub of creativity. The Eco-design show is pretty much a 'does what it says on the tin' 'off-broadway' event around this. And offers a nice RE-use complement to the predominantly RE-cycle theme of the venue.
HOW MUCH: Free
URL: http://www.bristoldesignfestival.com/
COMMENTS:
As part of this, Junkk.com is proud to have been invited to have a presence at the 'Eco-design' show.
This runs from now to Friday 18 July, 9-18.00. Best to call first. 0117 925 0505
It is located at The CREATE Centre, Smeaton Road, Bristol BS1, 6XN
As you'll see, ours more of a small demo stand, but there are bits and bobs, and some other nifty stuff. Frankly, not worth a city to city jaunt for the show alone, but as the pictures will show, the centre itself is in a heck of a nice setting, easy to access and has (I know, tsk) good parking. Well worth a call if you are a Bristol resident to see you tax dollars and LA-greenophilia at work.
Prof's Poser - Strike a light?
BBC News is doing a report on the National Trust replacing all its light bulbs... 'which has an immediate environmental benefit'. Does it?
I have written, simply to ask;
I have just watched your piece on the National Trust replacing 40,000 lights in their properties with low energy variants. Obviously much better for energy consumption and financial savings (after the initial costs, unless sponsors Philips - nice ad - are covering that. Shame the public does not get this advantage).
I'd just like to ask whether this also represents an immediate environmental saving whilst the report indicates the old bulbs 'will be recycled'. That would suggest perfectly good, if inefficient bulbs are to be discarded.
It would be interesting to know what the break-even points - environmentally, if not financially - there are used to help judge the most effective courses.
Is the BBC stating categorically, on advice, that it is better environmentally (allowing for 'costs' of manufacture, etc), to swap to low energy bulbs right away, rather than let them expire naturally and replace at this point?
If so, this is well worth promoting further.
My point (if not by me) has been made, with the blonde and bouffant saying it is a good one. Why do I suspect that this will be as far as an important issue of enviROI is passed over... again?
I'd simply like to know what to do that is best. Not to make a cute piece of PR puff.
Telegraph - About time National Trust moved to energy -saving lightbulbs
I have written, simply to ask;
I have just watched your piece on the National Trust replacing 40,000 lights in their properties with low energy variants. Obviously much better for energy consumption and financial savings (after the initial costs, unless sponsors Philips - nice ad - are covering that. Shame the public does not get this advantage).
I'd just like to ask whether this also represents an immediate environmental saving whilst the report indicates the old bulbs 'will be recycled'. That would suggest perfectly good, if inefficient bulbs are to be discarded.
It would be interesting to know what the break-even points - environmentally, if not financially - there are used to help judge the most effective courses.
Is the BBC stating categorically, on advice, that it is better environmentally (allowing for 'costs' of manufacture, etc), to swap to low energy bulbs right away, rather than let them expire naturally and replace at this point?
If so, this is well worth promoting further.
My point (if not by me) has been made, with the blonde and bouffant saying it is a good one. Why do I suspect that this will be as far as an important issue of enviROI is passed over... again?
I'd simply like to know what to do that is best. Not to make a cute piece of PR puff.
Telegraph - About time National Trust moved to energy -saving lightbulbs
Monday, June 23, 2008
Common sense?
Or politically correct madness? I'll leave that up to you, the reader, to decide.
This from the Telegraph highlights a study undertaken by a group of scientists on what may happen if the EU follows through with proposals to ban a number of commonly used herbicides, insecticides and fungicides.
I actually worked on a project directly related to biocides and the amount of time and effort taken up in chemical risk and hazard assessment was simply extraordinary. Plus, as far as I was aware, ALL chemicals used in biocides known to pose ANY sort of toxicity threat were withdrawn from use during the 1970's & 1980's.
"A ban on chemical products used to control disease, pests and weeds would create food shortages, lead to soaring prices and increase Britain's dependence on imports."
"The yields of staples foods such wheat, potatoes and green vegetables would all be severely hit if the majority of pesticides, herbicides and fungicides, all of which have been certified as safe and which are commonly used by farmers - are banned."
OK, so reducing the number and amount of chemicals used in agriculture does seem, at first glance, to be a pretty sensible idea. But, and this is the big question, at a time when basic food prices are going through the roof, and we probably need to actually increase yields, a blanket ban that might actually reduce crop yields by between 25% to 50% seems to me to be rather questionable.
Having some friends who have just come back from holiday in Spain and who have pointed out that over there, individual bar owners can decide whether their premises are smoking or no smoking, what's the betting that the UK would be yet again the only member of the EU to take any notice of a ban on the use of biocides anyway?
This from the Telegraph highlights a study undertaken by a group of scientists on what may happen if the EU follows through with proposals to ban a number of commonly used herbicides, insecticides and fungicides.
I actually worked on a project directly related to biocides and the amount of time and effort taken up in chemical risk and hazard assessment was simply extraordinary. Plus, as far as I was aware, ALL chemicals used in biocides known to pose ANY sort of toxicity threat were withdrawn from use during the 1970's & 1980's.
"A ban on chemical products used to control disease, pests and weeds would create food shortages, lead to soaring prices and increase Britain's dependence on imports."
"The yields of staples foods such wheat, potatoes and green vegetables would all be severely hit if the majority of pesticides, herbicides and fungicides, all of which have been certified as safe and which are commonly used by farmers - are banned."
OK, so reducing the number and amount of chemicals used in agriculture does seem, at first glance, to be a pretty sensible idea. But, and this is the big question, at a time when basic food prices are going through the roof, and we probably need to actually increase yields, a blanket ban that might actually reduce crop yields by between 25% to 50% seems to me to be rather questionable.
Having some friends who have just come back from holiday in Spain and who have pointed out that over there, individual bar owners can decide whether their premises are smoking or no smoking, what's the betting that the UK would be yet again the only member of the EU to take any notice of a ban on the use of biocides anyway?
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Words & Deeds
It's a survey, so we grab that pinch of salt now. But, considering it's in the Observer, one does tend to take note:
Poll: most Britons doubt cause of climate change
Especially as it does rather serve what I bang on about. Which as an aside shows how polls, and consequent editorialising, can easily be selective.
I don't propose to argue one way or t'other about CC, or even the ProbablyManWorsenedNegative variant I subscribe to, but this does beg the question as to the credibility and effectiveness of all those who have taken to 'educate'/influence the public in this matter. And ask why 'they' (well, to an extent, 'we') are proving so poor in getting their messages across. Which leads me to their qualifications to be allowed to carry on, not in freedom of speech terms, but when vast amounts of public money are consumed to fund these efforts.
On my other blog I have expressed some concern at the ongoing attempts by a few in the political and chatterati firmament to blame everybody but themselves in polls that did not go the 'right' way, often taking it to the extreme of suggesting 'other' views should be suppressed and/or that the general public is not qualified to judge. Hence I crank an eyebrow at this: 'Some environmentalists blame the public's doubts on last year's Channel 4 documentary The Great Global Warming Swindle, and on recent books, including one by Lord Lawson, the former Chancellor, that question the consensus on climate change.' That's 'a' programme and 'a' book, both widely dissected by those of a more climate pessimistic nature with frankly vast resources. And the notion is the people are being seduced by such as these? There is a worrying similarity with the recent and ongoing Irish EU situation, where by having a contrary opinion there seem a really rather ugly group think being engaged upon against those who do not conform with the 'consensus'. Faced with such as this my nature is almost to kick back just for the naked obnoxiousness of the stance being taken and the uncritical homage demanded.
I have to say I have sympathy with this form Bjorn Lomborg, who '..said politicians and campaigners were to blame for over-simplifying the problem by only publicising evidence to support the case.' Of course this is a critique that can apply to (and I hate such generalist terms) other 'sides'.
Hence I find this from the Department for the Environment to be making a key point: 'The IPCC... concluded the scientific evidence for climate change is clear and it is down to human activities.' Unless there's a bit left out, is it that clear, definitive... and certain? It's all due to human activity? I remain unsure, don't recall it be proven, and hence such claims do rather cause me to crank an eyebrow at anything else such entities may come up with.
Meanwhile such as this does not help either: '...six out of 10 agreed that 'many scientific experts still question if humans are contributing to climate change'.
It all seems so all or nothing, 'if you are not for us, you are against us'. And history has shown how well those stances have served.
So here is a worrying, but frankly unsurprising finding: 'More than half of those polled did not have confidence in international or British political leaders to tackle climate change'.
Whatever the message is or should be, I remain firm in my belief the current crop of messengers need to be reviewed.
Poll: most Britons doubt cause of climate change
Especially as it does rather serve what I bang on about. Which as an aside shows how polls, and consequent editorialising, can easily be selective.
I don't propose to argue one way or t'other about CC, or even the ProbablyManWorsenedNegative variant I subscribe to, but this does beg the question as to the credibility and effectiveness of all those who have taken to 'educate'/influence the public in this matter. And ask why 'they' (well, to an extent, 'we') are proving so poor in getting their messages across. Which leads me to their qualifications to be allowed to carry on, not in freedom of speech terms, but when vast amounts of public money are consumed to fund these efforts.
On my other blog I have expressed some concern at the ongoing attempts by a few in the political and chatterati firmament to blame everybody but themselves in polls that did not go the 'right' way, often taking it to the extreme of suggesting 'other' views should be suppressed and/or that the general public is not qualified to judge. Hence I crank an eyebrow at this: 'Some environmentalists blame the public's doubts on last year's Channel 4 documentary The Great Global Warming Swindle, and on recent books, including one by Lord Lawson, the former Chancellor, that question the consensus on climate change.' That's 'a' programme and 'a' book, both widely dissected by those of a more climate pessimistic nature with frankly vast resources. And the notion is the people are being seduced by such as these? There is a worrying similarity with the recent and ongoing Irish EU situation, where by having a contrary opinion there seem a really rather ugly group think being engaged upon against those who do not conform with the 'consensus'. Faced with such as this my nature is almost to kick back just for the naked obnoxiousness of the stance being taken and the uncritical homage demanded.
I have to say I have sympathy with this form Bjorn Lomborg, who '..said politicians and campaigners were to blame for over-simplifying the problem by only publicising evidence to support the case.' Of course this is a critique that can apply to (and I hate such generalist terms) other 'sides'.
Hence I find this from the Department for the Environment to be making a key point: 'The IPCC... concluded the scientific evidence for climate change is clear and it is down to human activities.' Unless there's a bit left out, is it that clear, definitive... and certain? It's all due to human activity? I remain unsure, don't recall it be proven, and hence such claims do rather cause me to crank an eyebrow at anything else such entities may come up with.
Meanwhile such as this does not help either: '...six out of 10 agreed that 'many scientific experts still question if humans are contributing to climate change'.
It all seems so all or nothing, 'if you are not for us, you are against us'. And history has shown how well those stances have served.
So here is a worrying, but frankly unsurprising finding: 'More than half of those polled did not have confidence in international or British political leaders to tackle climate change'.
Whatever the message is or should be, I remain firm in my belief the current crop of messengers need to be reviewed.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Friday, June 20, 2008
Big Oil returning to Iraq?
I have to confess I wondered how long it might be before the big oil boys started to try to get back into Iraq. This from the Independent reports that they are already negotiating their return with the Iraqi government.
So overthrowing Saddam was, hmmmmmm, solely about weapons of mass destruction? Methinks likely not.
Addendum:
Looks like I'm not the only one pondering that last statement - see this very enlightening article from ukwatch.net, which suggests that peak oil concerns were the primary reason for the war in Iraq.
So overthrowing Saddam was, hmmmmmm, solely about weapons of mass destruction? Methinks likely not.
Addendum:
Looks like I'm not the only one pondering that last statement - see this very enlightening article from ukwatch.net, which suggests that peak oil concerns were the primary reason for the war in Iraq.
The new Mercedes Smart 'ForTwo' ...
... model looks set to be arriving in the UK in 2009.
Although it only has a lowly 45bhp common rail diesel engine, it will be another vehicle joining the C.C.D.C. (Congestion Charge Dodging Club) as it only emits 88g/km of CO2 per kilometre. But probably the best thing about it is that it manages a staggering 85mpg fuel economy!
Full story and more detail from Autocar.
Although it only has a lowly 45bhp common rail diesel engine, it will be another vehicle joining the C.C.D.C. (Congestion Charge Dodging Club) as it only emits 88g/km of CO2 per kilometre. But probably the best thing about it is that it manages a staggering 85mpg fuel economy!
Full story and more detail from Autocar.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
More on Arctic Ice
Or perhaps that should read 'less of'?
Although this last winter the Arctic ice extent was greater than that of 2007, during which a record year for summer ice minimum coverage was established, it would appear that this year may also break that record.
This from BBC News reports on how the melting of the Arctic ice appears to be accelerating faster than ever.
Interestingly, some ice research groups are now predicting an ice free Arctic summer as early as 2013! How long before big oil's exploration rigs start to move in?
Although this last winter the Arctic ice extent was greater than that of 2007, during which a record year for summer ice minimum coverage was established, it would appear that this year may also break that record.
This from BBC News reports on how the melting of the Arctic ice appears to be accelerating faster than ever.
Interestingly, some ice research groups are now predicting an ice free Arctic summer as early as 2013! How long before big oil's exploration rigs start to move in?
Car-mort
I feel like Earl Hickey in 'My Name is Earl'. We're talking karma.
First the bad... then the good.
Today I set off mid afternoon for an eco-networking event in London. Actually two, and that seemed, well, too good not to combo.
As it was finishing quite late I figured driving, at least most of the way, was the only option to be able to get back home. Karma disagreed.
I could have trained in from Gloucester. I could have opted for the more motorway-friendly (if thirstier) Volvo. But no, I nicked the missus' Golf to eke out the juice.
Unfortunately this was not a good plan. At least, it was great until Reading. Then things went the shape of the pear in the form of a water pump exploding.
But Karma then smiled. I managed to get off the motorway. Thanks to mobile technology and sensible insurance I simply popped the bonnet and called up the RAC and waited. Ralph appeared within 15 minutes.
And he went the extra mile... literally. All the way back to Ross, and beyond his radius. But as he agreed, it would have been bad for the planet to call a truck to take us back when it made much more sense for him to tow me then and there.
Hence I write this now and not midnight. Thank you Ralph. However, Karma, you are a feisty minx. Maybe there was a reason I was meant to miss that event. But there'll be another. I even managed to get the host on the horn and tell him my plight, and he was cool.
It could have been better, but also a lot worse.
Addendum - Now, why did I have to rush to print. No more smile like the pic above;(
The garage just called. I dod the right thing in driving on a bit to get out the fast lane and stick the car off motorway asap, but in so doing killed the engine. Totally. So now I either scrap a perfectly good shell or pop in a replacement. Actually one option I'm thinking is popping in a more frugal engine.
Anyway, driving tip:
When the water temp warning goes on, as soon as it is safe to do so...STOP! And don't be tempted to move any more.
Addendum 2 - Sheesh, Karma is toying with me. Dan, of Greenbang.com, whose event I was headed for, has kindly offered to do a story on Junkk.com and RE:tie in his very good, very widely read publication.
Swings... roundabouts.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Red top in the morning, global sheperd's warning
A nice link I have been sent: ‘Ye Olde Hot Aire’*: reporting on human contributions to climate change in the UK tabloid press
Brilliant, but shame it did not have a management summary!
Addendum -
No sooner posted than sorted. A kind addition from a fellow forum member. A lot better, but still, a mouthful:
IOP PUBLISHING ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH LETTERS
Environ. Res. Lett. 3 (2008) 024002 (8pp)
Abstract
This letter explores daily print media coverage of climate change in four United Kingdom (UK) tabloid newspapers: The Sun (and News of the World), Daily Mail (and Mail on Sunday), the Daily Express (and Sunday Express), and the Mirror (and Sunday Mirror).
Through examinations of content in articles over the last seven years (2000–2006), triangulated with semi-structured interviews of journalists and editors, the study finds that UK tabloid coverage significantly diverged from the scientific consensus that humans
contribute to climate change. Moreover, there was no consistent increase in the percentage of accurate coverage throughout the period of analysis and across all tabloid newspapers, and these findings are not consistent with recent trends documented in United States and UK ‘prestige press’ or broadsheet newspaper reporting. Findings from interviews indicate that inaccurate reporting may be linked to the lack of specialist journalists in the tabloid press. This study therefore contributes to wider discussions of socio-economic inequality, media and the environment. Looking to newspapers that are consumed by typically working class readership, this article contributes to ongoing investigations related to what media representations mean for ongoing science–policy interactions as well as potentialities for public engagement.
Sorry if I missed it if it was in there. Sadly not always the time to go through all such things in detail, which is kind of the whole problem suggested. Though I suspect many tabloid editors do go through... and then choose to take certain directions anyway.
There is of course the base stance being taken as read as well. I'd also note in passing that though the audience for this is specialist, there may be an argument to try and package key points in a way to get the desired message across a tad more easily.
My old mantra of the fault being not so much with those you don't convince, but with you for failing to convince them.
Brilliant, but shame it did not have a management summary!
Addendum -
No sooner posted than sorted. A kind addition from a fellow forum member. A lot better, but still, a mouthful:
IOP PUBLISHING ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH LETTERS
Environ. Res. Lett. 3 (2008) 024002 (8pp)
Abstract
This letter explores daily print media coverage of climate change in four United Kingdom (UK) tabloid newspapers: The Sun (and News of the World), Daily Mail (and Mail on Sunday), the Daily Express (and Sunday Express), and the Mirror (and Sunday Mirror).
Through examinations of content in articles over the last seven years (2000–2006), triangulated with semi-structured interviews of journalists and editors, the study finds that UK tabloid coverage significantly diverged from the scientific consensus that humans
contribute to climate change. Moreover, there was no consistent increase in the percentage of accurate coverage throughout the period of analysis and across all tabloid newspapers, and these findings are not consistent with recent trends documented in United States and UK ‘prestige press’ or broadsheet newspaper reporting. Findings from interviews indicate that inaccurate reporting may be linked to the lack of specialist journalists in the tabloid press. This study therefore contributes to wider discussions of socio-economic inequality, media and the environment. Looking to newspapers that are consumed by typically working class readership, this article contributes to ongoing investigations related to what media representations mean for ongoing science–policy interactions as well as potentialities for public engagement.
Sorry if I missed it if it was in there. Sadly not always the time to go through all such things in detail, which is kind of the whole problem suggested. Though I suspect many tabloid editors do go through... and then choose to take certain directions anyway.
There is of course the base stance being taken as read as well. I'd also note in passing that though the audience for this is specialist, there may be an argument to try and package key points in a way to get the desired message across a tad more easily.
My old mantra of the fault being not so much with those you don't convince, but with you for failing to convince them.
At a loss for... anything really
For the second time today, I have noted a strange absence of activity where I would have expected... hoped for more.
One was a self-serving piece of tosh from Tony Blair, upon which I decided to make a brief comment if only to highlight that all it warranted was a brief comment (OK, none would have been more eloquent, but I don't believe I was going to be the only one, and so in true Prisoner's Dilemma fashion broke ranks first - at least the consequences of that action will not be as serious as other compromises (that have been) made).
Now there is this: Ten green bloggers
But so far (10.48am, mind-morning)... nothing. Maybe there is nothing to say. I must say I am a bit stumped and so have opted, for now, to write nothing (well, excepting this). But this a big issue, with some big names... in the biggest online UK green media-friendly blog.
It says 'The next stage of the campaign is spreading the word. The blogosphere is already buzzing with the story'. O....k.
Thing is, I guess by sharing I have done a bit, but I am not sure what it is, and without going back or re-reading am not too sure what that might be anyway. Oh... this might help: canvassyourmp.com
Catchy.
Is that the best ways forward? Hmmmn. I noted it more because of how it hadn't been noted. Anyway, it seems worthy enough (though I will need to assess what is being asked. I might sign up for the newsletter, and hope this will not be counted as offering support... yet... for anything that I might not be so keen on, by simply showing an interest). Anyway... enjoy.
I'll pop a note in to come back subsequently to check and see. Maybe it's a slow burner.
One was a self-serving piece of tosh from Tony Blair, upon which I decided to make a brief comment if only to highlight that all it warranted was a brief comment (OK, none would have been more eloquent, but I don't believe I was going to be the only one, and so in true Prisoner's Dilemma fashion broke ranks first - at least the consequences of that action will not be as serious as other compromises (that have been) made).
Now there is this: Ten green bloggers
But so far (10.48am, mind-morning)... nothing. Maybe there is nothing to say. I must say I am a bit stumped and so have opted, for now, to write nothing (well, excepting this). But this a big issue, with some big names... in the biggest online UK green media-friendly blog.
It says 'The next stage of the campaign is spreading the word. The blogosphere is already buzzing with the story'. O....k.
Thing is, I guess by sharing I have done a bit, but I am not sure what it is, and without going back or re-reading am not too sure what that might be anyway. Oh... this might help: canvassyourmp.com
Catchy.
Is that the best ways forward? Hmmmn. I noted it more because of how it hadn't been noted. Anyway, it seems worthy enough (though I will need to assess what is being asked. I might sign up for the newsletter, and hope this will not be counted as offering support... yet... for anything that I might not be so keen on, by simply showing an interest). Anyway... enjoy.
I'll pop a note in to come back subsequently to check and see. Maybe it's a slow burner.
CATEGORY - Metering
Usage based charges. What could be fairer? Or better to help reduce consumption?
I have dabbled in the past (check the labels below), but feel this needs be given its own section... and sub-sections.
ELECTRIC
Guardian - Pay as you glow? - A vexed issue, evidently. And yet again, something superficially simple seems more convoluted between consumer, corporations and those who would govern.
Guardian - Shock tactics
GAS
WATER
I have dabbled in the past (check the labels below), but feel this needs be given its own section... and sub-sections.
ELECTRIC
Guardian - Pay as you glow? - A vexed issue, evidently. And yet again, something superficially simple seems more convoluted between consumer, corporations and those who would govern.
Guardian - Shock tactics
GAS
WATER
Sharing the love
I stumbled across this from our ex-PM.
Blair: what my charity work taught me
Ignoring, for now, the content, it seemed a pity that, at time of writing, no one had written a thing, I thought I'd add a few words of encouragement and appreciation as only one truly inspired by his words and deeds, past and present, can be: Good luck with all of that.
I am sure it will be money well spent. Well, in know it's charity and all, but there will be expenses, etc, to cover first. And 7 mortgages plus daily global criss-crossing don't cover themselves, you know.
Blair: what my charity work taught me
Ignoring, for now, the content, it seemed a pity that, at time of writing, no one had written a thing, I thought I'd add a few words of encouragement and appreciation as only one truly inspired by his words and deeds, past and present, can be: Good luck with all of that.
I am sure it will be money well spent. Well, in know it's charity and all, but there will be expenses, etc, to cover first. And 7 mortgages plus daily global criss-crossing don't cover themselves, you know.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
'Tax to go ahead' shock
I was looking through this: Microchip bin tax scheme to go ahead despite failures (front page in the Mail)
It's all worth a read, but in light of what is clear by the facts have to wonder if it's all the best use of scarce funds.
It's all worth a read, but in light of what is clear by the facts have to wonder if it's all the best use of scarce funds.
Buddy, can you spare a lime?
Crunch-hit consumers restricted by price of green products, report says
Well, there's a thing.
After my initial 'Well, d'uh!', there are a few interesting aspects to note.
'.... widespread dissatisfaction over the variety of green products offered by retailers,' is one I was not aware of.
'...shoppers on average paid 45% more for environmentally friendly and fair trade goods.' is one that amazed me.
'Shoppers said they are only willing to pay a premium of about 20% for greener products.' made me think there are a lot of folk with a lot of money.
"Consumers want to make sustainable choices, but are hampered by unclear messages. Confusion, coupled with high prices, leads to a lack of trust...'' comes as no surprise.
While 'More than 6 in 10 consumers questioned said reducing the amount of packaging on products was the most important action retailers and consumer goods companies could take to help the environment' makes me wonder why Junkk.com and RE:tie are proving real challenges to get across with the business community.
I really am starting to think the marketers and business brains in this country would would miss an opportunity even if it folded itself in neat notes in their wallets.
Well, there's a thing.
After my initial 'Well, d'uh!', there are a few interesting aspects to note.
'.... widespread dissatisfaction over the variety of green products offered by retailers,' is one I was not aware of.
'...shoppers on average paid 45% more for environmentally friendly and fair trade goods.' is one that amazed me.
'Shoppers said they are only willing to pay a premium of about 20% for greener products.' made me think there are a lot of folk with a lot of money.
"Consumers want to make sustainable choices, but are hampered by unclear messages. Confusion, coupled with high prices, leads to a lack of trust...'' comes as no surprise.
While 'More than 6 in 10 consumers questioned said reducing the amount of packaging on products was the most important action retailers and consumer goods companies could take to help the environment' makes me wonder why Junkk.com and RE:tie are proving real challenges to get across with the business community.
I really am starting to think the marketers and business brains in this country would would miss an opportunity even if it folded itself in neat notes in their wallets.
AWARDS & EVENTS CATEGORY TEMPLATE
Helping us help you promote your award/competition/event:
WHEN: Deadline/closing date for awards, when it's taking place for events
WHAT: Title
WHAT... MORE?: A little bit of blurb is always worth it
HOW MUCH: We like free. But can live with a fee if it's worth it
URL: http://www.[yourURLhere]
COMMENTS: This bit we keep for us... we know stuff:)
Now just fill in and fire off to info@junkk.com, and if it looks like a plan we'll pop it up.
WHEN: Deadline/closing date for awards, when it's taking place for events
WHAT: Title
WHAT... MORE?: A little bit of blurb is always worth it
HOW MUCH: We like free. But can live with a fee if it's worth it
URL: http://www.[yourURLhere]
COMMENTS: This bit we keep for us... we know stuff:)
Now just fill in and fire off to info@junkk.com, and if it looks like a plan we'll pop it up.
Musing on a motorway
Yesterday I was travelling to and from a VC-pitch contest in Bristol (more on this later).
First up I was not doing it in the Volvo. And this is a car designed to lollop along motorways.
No, I was in the missus' Golf, while she took mine.
The reason was simple: cost (and this, plus time, was why I wasn't in a train). I don't happen to like it as there is no way I can afford to get a car that does what The Volvo does, only cheaper, but my actions were shaped by market forces.
The other was not on the motorway. Just after Gloucester I got on the road that takes one back to Ross. And on my tail, the whole way, mostly through countryside, I was bang on 50, 40 and 30mph.
After 15 miles I had a tailback of 20 cars. Ironically, if the police car had been at the front I suspect we'd all have got there a lot quicker. And safer.
Because, despite having a Road Angel, without cruise control I had my eye glued on the speedo the whole time, as the merest blip on the gas or downward slope was taking me over the limit, even by the 10% allowed'.
This was... is...plain stupid. Rules vs. common sense. Box-ticks vs. desired result. And from the look on the police driver's face as I checked along the route, he thought so to.
First up I was not doing it in the Volvo. And this is a car designed to lollop along motorways.
No, I was in the missus' Golf, while she took mine.
The reason was simple: cost (and this, plus time, was why I wasn't in a train). I don't happen to like it as there is no way I can afford to get a car that does what The Volvo does, only cheaper, but my actions were shaped by market forces.
The other was not on the motorway. Just after Gloucester I got on the road that takes one back to Ross. And on my tail, the whole way, mostly through countryside, I was bang on 50, 40 and 30mph.
After 15 miles I had a tailback of 20 cars. Ironically, if the police car had been at the front I suspect we'd all have got there a lot quicker. And safer.
Because, despite having a Road Angel, without cruise control I had my eye glued on the speedo the whole time, as the merest blip on the gas or downward slope was taking me over the limit, even by the 10% allowed'.
This was... is...plain stupid. Rules vs. common sense. Box-ticks vs. desired result. And from the look on the police driver's face as I checked along the route, he thought so to.
NEWS/Commercial PR - RE-USB
I like to reward sincere efforts.A wee while ago I was sent the PR that follows.
Actually, this is a product I am happy enough to endorse as I bought several and, frankly, what's not to like?
These are rechargeable batteries, which is already nifty in my book, but they can also be recharged in the USB slot of your lappy, which makes 'em downright, well, space-saving (no need to lug along a charger for one, well, assuming you are taking a lappy along. And who doesn't have a slot you can borrow at destination?) at the very least.
Thing is I was feeling a bit eyebrow-cranky, and alighted on the bit about the actual longevity.
Prove that, I said, and you will get a slot on the blog and even in the next newsletter (April's is looking good for July at the 'mo).
Well, bless 'em, they have. Maybe not 'proof' as such, but a very firm claim from the horse's mouth: 'You enquired whether the rechargeable battery would last forever. I contacted the inventor Simon Daniel who said that the USBCELL battery can be recharged up to 500 times before the in-battery chemistry degrades. Normal rechargeable batteries can be re-used on average under 10 times, so the comparison is very impressive.'
Now I blooming well hope the various other reusables last a bit more than 10 times (I must check their small print now. See a press release I study; a pack in Maplins I don't), but I have decided to bite. Here it is, E&EO:
Re-usable USBCELL Battery could save UK Landfill and Recycling Fines
Recycling Week began badly with news that Britain faces millions of pounds of fines for not collecting and recycling batteries. However, renewable power specialist Moixa Energy has the answer – with their award winning USBCELL , which is already saving millions of batteries from future UK Landfill.
Says Moixa CEO and founder Simon Daniel. “Our USBCELL Batteries can be ‘Recharged Anywhere’ by simply plugging them into one of the billions of USB ports on desktops, laptop or games devices”.
“The solution is not just consumers recycling more (how many people even know about Recycling Week) [I certainly forgot , even if I did. Nice to see all those quango comms £'s hard at... er.. work - Ed], it is the responsibility of all companies and designers to rethink entire product categories to become more re-usable and sustainable.
Batteries are a clear example of waste, with over 15 billion (equivalent to a column to the moon and back), made and thrown away each year. Traditional rechargeable batteries require a charger/adaptor to be made, found and carried – so sadly are on average only ever re-used under 10 times before being discarded.
USBCELL batteries solve this by embedding a compact USB connector and circuitry inside the battery so that no separate charger is needed. Each USBCELL can save over 3kg of landfill and 7kg of C02, in basic re-use, and significantly more if fully re-used. Whilst government departments, BBMA (British Battery Manufacturers Association) and environmental groups debate how to raise UK collection from the current 2-3% to the 25% required under the EU Batteries Directive, USBCELL has already saved the UK several jumbo jets' worth of future landfill.
USBCELL is also soon to be available in other battery formats (e.g. AAA), and is also being developed for application with leading mobile phone brands.
The first of a new generation?
Or maybe, perhaps, just a clever "aren't we being green" marketing ploy? Full story from the Telegraph.
I'll leave it to you to make up your own mind, and perhaps I'm being overtly cynical, but producing only 300 of the new Honda FCX Clarity, their new zero-emission hydrogen fuel-cell car, does seem rather pointless to me, especially when you read that they are only going to 'selected' celebs and media luvvies.
I hope I'm wrong, but if they are that convinced of the technology, which does rather sound like a viable and fairly environmentally friendly way forward to me, then surely they would have plans to scale up to mass production far quicker than on a ten year horizon?
Marketing Blog - Low cost commuting & free parking in London - JM Addendum - As we're on a roll:)
Monday, June 16, 2008
Mind your Ps, Qs, and now Cs
NESTA will launch its latest research report ‘The 7Cs, Why we need positive messages to sell low carbon living.’
Catchy.
And selling via positives is a definite step in the right direction.
But just wondering what the 7Cs might be? I guess they are part of 'low carbon living', but couldn't seem to find any more.
Shame I can't make it all that way, but I hope the report will be shared online.
Plus that it will recognise actual realities and practicalities, rather than idealistic or self-fulfilling notions, especially at official level.
I'm still getting research that tells me that 98% of people, when asked, think doing our best to save the planet is worth considering (making me wonder about the mindset of the 2% not in favour) as some kind of awareness box tick. Yet often it is associated with poor actual deliverables. No point asking a question in a way that gives a desired answer.
Often these things, and the results they derive, are works of beauty only report writers and niche industry insiders could love.
If this really tries to get under the skin of what the public/consumer audience thinks and how it responds to various campaigns it will indeed be worth reading. And acting upon. Too many messages, and waaay too much in comms budgets, is blown on ticking a box and making a committee headed by a Minister happy than actually reaching out and effecting change.
Process has often supplanted result.
It also helps if the consumer has mechanisms put in place that they can easily respond to once motivated. I have followed today's news reports on new co-mingled collections getting in the tonnages but not delivering useful recyclate with interest.
Addendum - Thanks to a fellow poster on another forum, I now have a link to the report. At first glance it looks like a bit of a trawl will be required to suss out much of use (maybe I will get to find out what the 7 C's are at last. Hope it's worth it. Fingers crossed there may have been some real communicators involved and not just a bunch of academics, researchers and civ. servs., otherwise it's valeu will be rather suspect), whilst agreeing with the basic premise, as I did when first I got wind of it.
Plus I am concerned at a trend I notice that is epitomised by their featuring a device in their study 'The Disrupters'. Whilst this is a worthy and stylish piece (there are many, more basic and cheaper versions for those who may feel energy monitoring to be a useful aspect of reducing their footprints - I have to say I stopped checking mine ages ago as it really told me little I felt I could do much about), it is also well beyond the budgets of most normal folk outside a Gaurdianesque lifestyle bubble.
Communication on matters environmental does need to be many things, and especially positive and proactive, but it should not be driven by the interests and ambitions of an affluent elite and/or paid/interested niche sector, or it will at best stay remote from the general public and hence remain practically irrelevant, but at worst risks creating an 'it's alright for them' kickback from those less able to indulge in such trendy aspects of carbon mitigation. Frankly not a major issue by the media buying trends I have noticed in complement to most creative executions so far. Colour ads in quality Sunday supps and 90' high budget (and 'brow' concept) TV indulgences placed in low rating (and hence niche) shows designed more for the awards ceremony than communication to any audience other than the advertiser's mates at the wine bar. We need to reach and motivate Fiesta family... not just amuse and get nods of approval from Prius person.
Catchy.
And selling via positives is a definite step in the right direction.
But just wondering what the 7Cs might be? I guess they are part of 'low carbon living', but couldn't seem to find any more.
Shame I can't make it all that way, but I hope the report will be shared online.
Plus that it will recognise actual realities and practicalities, rather than idealistic or self-fulfilling notions, especially at official level.
I'm still getting research that tells me that 98% of people, when asked, think doing our best to save the planet is worth considering (making me wonder about the mindset of the 2% not in favour) as some kind of awareness box tick. Yet often it is associated with poor actual deliverables. No point asking a question in a way that gives a desired answer.
Often these things, and the results they derive, are works of beauty only report writers and niche industry insiders could love.
If this really tries to get under the skin of what the public/consumer audience thinks and how it responds to various campaigns it will indeed be worth reading. And acting upon. Too many messages, and waaay too much in comms budgets, is blown on ticking a box and making a committee headed by a Minister happy than actually reaching out and effecting change.
Process has often supplanted result.
It also helps if the consumer has mechanisms put in place that they can easily respond to once motivated. I have followed today's news reports on new co-mingled collections getting in the tonnages but not delivering useful recyclate with interest.
Addendum - Thanks to a fellow poster on another forum, I now have a link to the report. At first glance it looks like a bit of a trawl will be required to suss out much of use (maybe I will get to find out what the 7 C's are at last. Hope it's worth it. Fingers crossed there may have been some real communicators involved and not just a bunch of academics, researchers and civ. servs., otherwise it's valeu will be rather suspect), whilst agreeing with the basic premise, as I did when first I got wind of it.
Plus I am concerned at a trend I notice that is epitomised by their featuring a device in their study 'The Disrupters'. Whilst this is a worthy and stylish piece (there are many, more basic and cheaper versions for those who may feel energy monitoring to be a useful aspect of reducing their footprints - I have to say I stopped checking mine ages ago as it really told me little I felt I could do much about), it is also well beyond the budgets of most normal folk outside a Gaurdianesque lifestyle bubble.
Communication on matters environmental does need to be many things, and especially positive and proactive, but it should not be driven by the interests and ambitions of an affluent elite and/or paid/interested niche sector, or it will at best stay remote from the general public and hence remain practically irrelevant, but at worst risks creating an 'it's alright for them' kickback from those less able to indulge in such trendy aspects of carbon mitigation. Frankly not a major issue by the media buying trends I have noticed in complement to most creative executions so far. Colour ads in quality Sunday supps and 90' high budget (and 'brow' concept) TV indulgences placed in low rating (and hence niche) shows designed more for the awards ceremony than communication to any audience other than the advertiser's mates at the wine bar. We need to reach and motivate Fiesta family... not just amuse and get nods of approval from Prius person.
Nods all round
(well, except for the obit on my theoretical day job)
Advertising is Dead, Long Live Packaging
Works for me!
May I suggest a slight addition?
It's in light of the perceived negatives of packaging environmentally. There is now a fair old desire, if not demand, by consumers for brands to up their game in this regard, pushed by media and legislative bodies as well.
Hence... think reuse! Trust me, be it 'accidental' but most certainly when designed in (Junkk.com is getting more and more great examples daily), there are opportunities aplenty for fun and profit all round. Plus the planet doesn't do too badly either:) Win, win... win...
Advertising is Dead, Long Live Packaging
Works for me!
May I suggest a slight addition?
It's in light of the perceived negatives of packaging environmentally. There is now a fair old desire, if not demand, by consumers for brands to up their game in this regard, pushed by media and legislative bodies as well.
Hence... think reuse! Trust me, be it 'accidental' but most certainly when designed in (Junkk.com is getting more and more great examples daily), there are opportunities aplenty for fun and profit all round. Plus the planet doesn't do too badly either:) Win, win... win...
Glass act
Just watched a BBC News item on recycling.
Very interesting. Basically the trend is now away from collecting via skips (and, one presumes, kerbsides, which I know is the case in my area*) and on to what they call 'co-mingled waste', which is basically all in one and let a central station sort it all out.
Trouble is, this system means that while lost of stuff is collected, most of the resultant recyclate is useless, especially when it comes to such as glass.
And as a sign off, the reporter says that when it comes to recycling, 'we' are no longer any good.
Now I know some aspects of these collection systems will encourage greater numbers, but what use if the stuff you collect is of less value.
I have written..
You're talking at and pointing to the wrong folk with the 'we' when referring to how this is not very good environmentally.
Consumers are much less to blame than incoherent, uncoordinated national policy, and an obsession with meeting targets that rewards process more than sensible result.
*Addendum: I have written to my local paper:
The issue of waste collection and, with luck, sensible recycling as a consequence is a hugely worthwhile, but still very complex one.
There are EU fines looming, consequent national pressures and of course regional and local variations 'in the mix'.
There can be no doubt of course that Ross' RE-Box scheme has been ahead of its time, and shining example across the board, not just as a recycling initiative, but also as a social enterprise and, perhaps more than anything, as a catalyst for individual and community cooperation and participation in the cause of environmental good practice.
But there are other issues at play, and these need to be understood and appreciated in assessing what is proposed for the future as part of bigger pictures.
With this in mind, I have noted a very interesting story on the national news this week. Mirroring our local experience the trend is apparently now away from collecting via skips, bottle/can banks (and, evidently, kerbsides) and on to what they call 'co-mingled waste' collections, which is basically all in one bag from our bins, and then on to let a central station sort it all out.
Trouble is, it seems that while this system means that perhaps more 'stuff' is collected, most of the resultant recyclate is of much less use than before, especially when it comes to such as glass.
Now I can see the advantages of these collection systems working with perhaps 'less co-operative' human nature (but certainly not around here, evidenced by the RE-Box success) will encourage greater numbers, but what use is this to the 'bigger picture' of carbon footprints/CO2 release if the stuff you collect is of less or no value?
RE-Box has shown that when engaged with in a sensible way, consumers are much less to blame than incoherent, uncoordinated national policy, and I just hope what we are not seeing is more an obsession with meeting targets that rewards process more than sensible result.
Oh, and just saw an amplified BBC report. Seems it stays as 'we' who are no longer as green as we shoudl be.
Very interesting. Basically the trend is now away from collecting via skips (and, one presumes, kerbsides, which I know is the case in my area*) and on to what they call 'co-mingled waste', which is basically all in one and let a central station sort it all out.
Trouble is, this system means that while lost of stuff is collected, most of the resultant recyclate is useless, especially when it comes to such as glass.
And as a sign off, the reporter says that when it comes to recycling, 'we' are no longer any good.
Now I know some aspects of these collection systems will encourage greater numbers, but what use if the stuff you collect is of less value.
I have written..
You're talking at and pointing to the wrong folk with the 'we' when referring to how this is not very good environmentally.
Consumers are much less to blame than incoherent, uncoordinated national policy, and an obsession with meeting targets that rewards process more than sensible result.
*Addendum: I have written to my local paper:
The issue of waste collection and, with luck, sensible recycling as a consequence is a hugely worthwhile, but still very complex one.
There are EU fines looming, consequent national pressures and of course regional and local variations 'in the mix'.
There can be no doubt of course that Ross' RE-Box scheme has been ahead of its time, and shining example across the board, not just as a recycling initiative, but also as a social enterprise and, perhaps more than anything, as a catalyst for individual and community cooperation and participation in the cause of environmental good practice.
But there are other issues at play, and these need to be understood and appreciated in assessing what is proposed for the future as part of bigger pictures.
With this in mind, I have noted a very interesting story on the national news this week. Mirroring our local experience the trend is apparently now away from collecting via skips, bottle/can banks (and, evidently, kerbsides) and on to what they call 'co-mingled waste' collections, which is basically all in one bag from our bins, and then on to let a central station sort it all out.
Trouble is, it seems that while this system means that perhaps more 'stuff' is collected, most of the resultant recyclate is of much less use than before, especially when it comes to such as glass.
Now I can see the advantages of these collection systems working with perhaps 'less co-operative' human nature (but certainly not around here, evidenced by the RE-Box success) will encourage greater numbers, but what use is this to the 'bigger picture' of carbon footprints/CO2 release if the stuff you collect is of less or no value?
RE-Box has shown that when engaged with in a sensible way, consumers are much less to blame than incoherent, uncoordinated national policy, and I just hope what we are not seeing is more an obsession with meeting targets that rewards process more than sensible result.
Oh, and just saw an amplified BBC report. Seems it stays as 'we' who are no longer as green as we shoudl be.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
QUOTE OF THE DAY - The TERRA PHILES
Not a quote but a 'mis-hearing' I quite liked.
The commentariat seem to be quite excited, and negative about all that involves 'terror files' and their slippery retention in the right/wrong hands.
I just first mis-heard and happily put myself, positively, in the camp of those who find being a terraphile a good thing.
The commentariat seem to be quite excited, and negative about all that involves 'terror files' and their slippery retention in the right/wrong hands.
I just first mis-heard and happily put myself, positively, in the camp of those who find being a terraphile a good thing.
Left Hand. Right Hand. Clunking Hand.
Giant coal-fired power plant gets green subsidies
Oh, b.....less.
How long ago was the excellent ST Magazine expose of this government's oversight of our nation's green talk at home vs. our murky walking overseas?
Oh, b.....less.
How long ago was the excellent ST Magazine expose of this government's oversight of our nation's green talk at home vs. our murky walking overseas?
CATEGORY - QUANGO'S JOLLY GOOD FELLOWS
Got to be done:
BBC - Questions raised over quango fees
BBC - FSA fesses up on Rock - I don't know if they are a quango or not. Or care. We are country 'run' by over-compensated, irresponsible fools who oversee other highly-paid, unaccountable fools to not protect us from totally immune charlatans.
epolitix.com - Carbon Trust
Guardian - Remploy bosses opt for top-end company cars - I'd love to see this one explained away... but it will be.
Guardian - Is that all, Mr Pocklington? - Priceless
Guardian - Satirists once had real bite. Not any more - from an odd direction. But telling.
Greenbang - Carbon Trust gets government slap down over targets - plus direct link to report. Yes that's a report. Now, what the heck gets done?????!
Indy - Ministers allowed officials to 'hit the jackpot' in MoD privatisation
Indy - Quangos' spending kept secret - A pretty well kept secret in itself
Times - English Heritage
Times - DEFRA - Going to pot
Times - Government spending on quangos soars
Times - Consultants cash in on state works - I really don't know why we put up with paying numpties to outsource paying other numpties to do their jobs. And how that manages “to do something for the good of the community”
Times - - Waste mounts as £100 billion web of quangos duplicates work - Not funny; not funny at all. And they don't mention the half of it
Times - It could be you – if you’re a lottery quango
Sunday Tel - How much do you think the head of Transport for London is paid? - Worth it for a useful link at the end, plus the comment on what these highly paid folk spend their money on, which often doesn't square with a reducing or mitigating lifestyle.
WRAP - there are a few. Just use the label search for others under 'WRAP' or Quango
Telegraph - WASTE WATCH - NEW
There will be more, trust me... because I, sadly, do not trust 'them' any more.
BBC - Questions raised over quango fees
BBC - FSA fesses up on Rock - I don't know if they are a quango or not. Or care. We are country 'run' by over-compensated, irresponsible fools who oversee other highly-paid, unaccountable fools to not protect us from totally immune charlatans.
epolitix.com - Carbon Trust
Guardian - Remploy bosses opt for top-end company cars - I'd love to see this one explained away... but it will be.
Guardian - Is that all, Mr Pocklington? - Priceless
Guardian - Satirists once had real bite. Not any more - from an odd direction. But telling.
Greenbang - Carbon Trust gets government slap down over targets - plus direct link to report. Yes that's a report. Now, what the heck gets done?????!
Indy - Ministers allowed officials to 'hit the jackpot' in MoD privatisation
Indy - Quangos' spending kept secret - A pretty well kept secret in itself
Times - English Heritage
Times - DEFRA - Going to pot
Times - Government spending on quangos soars
Times - Consultants cash in on state works - I really don't know why we put up with paying numpties to outsource paying other numpties to do their jobs. And how that manages “to do something for the good of the community”
Times - - Waste mounts as £100 billion web of quangos duplicates work - Not funny; not funny at all. And they don't mention the half of it
Times - It could be you – if you’re a lottery quango
Sunday Tel - How much do you think the head of Transport for London is paid? - Worth it for a useful link at the end, plus the comment on what these highly paid folk spend their money on, which often doesn't square with a reducing or mitigating lifestyle.
WRAP - there are a few. Just use the label search for others under 'WRAP' or Quango
Telegraph - WASTE WATCH - NEW
There will be more, trust me... because I, sadly, do not trust 'them' any more.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Can the can?
To Save Fuel, Airlines Find No Speck Too Small
I wonder if they are still lugging litre upon litre and kilo upon kilo of duty frees and cuddly toys to and fro in hope of a sale?
Or putting out newspapers with such crucial sections as today’s classifieds or appointments?
But I guess the public gets what the public…can.
I wonder if they are still lugging litre upon litre and kilo upon kilo of duty frees and cuddly toys to and fro in hope of a sale?
Or putting out newspapers with such crucial sections as today’s classifieds or appointments?
But I guess the public gets what the public…can.
Would the gent glowing at the back like to speak
(DEFRA) Government invites communities for 'no commitment' discussions on hosting geological disposal facility* for radioactive waste
I'd love to be a 6' fly sitting cross-legged on a chair, taking notes and multi-tasking on his non-mutated Blackberry at that one!
If only to see who lobs up.
*dump
I'd love to be a 6' fly sitting cross-legged on a chair, taking notes and multi-tasking on his non-mutated Blackberry at that one!
If only to see who lobs up.
*dump
42 Days is a long time ......
.... to be held without charge.The genius that is Matt of the Telegraph strikes again!
The thing is, there was a heated debate about the 42 days for suspect terrorists yesterday evening in my local. Now I didn't read or hear this, but two people were absolutely adamant that the way that the Bill was worded, it effectively gave the police the powers to hold anybody for 42 days whatever the offense! I've had a quick browse and cannot confirm this one way or another. Can anyone out there cast any light on this?
So, if it is true, whether you are a potential terrorist, or naughty enough to have put the wrong plastic in the wrong recycling bin, beware!
COMPETITION - Our first...
Well, the genesis of one at least. Its working title is... 'Whizz. No Bang'.
Because it's funny how things pan out.
I subscribe to many feeds and forums and lists to not only gain knowledge but also debate with knowledgeable others on various issues, often with a view to getting a... well, view... that might go beyond these pages and on to the site and newsletter. At least in a form that in being shared objectively may help others.
I am in the middle of one currently about the state (and it is sorry) of our nation's flood systems, warning and public comms. Interestingly, I had to go 'off grid' because one of those who know, or think they know better bemoaned having to put up with the input of mere mortals who often cop the sharp end of their highly-resourced conferences, consultations, research and trips all over the shop. And I can find their pronouncements from on high a crock of 'potential energy-from-biomass material'.
However, having gone off grid a while (sadly, you can't get profile and the good stuff without being noticed above parapet), I have found myself in highly productive discussions with some on an other area, namely wind farms.
The reason I am posting here, and hence also in the next newsletter, is that as a result of one conservation I am pondering a competition.
This is to see if there is/can be a low tech, low cost way of preventing bird strikes on wind farm turbine blades that simply make Jonathan Livingstone Eagle avoid the things, and hence at least get this 'yes highly important, yet pretty minor and distracting' issue (in the great scheme) off the cons list for a lot of folk, especially all major media with an eye to what sells papers and generates ratings, if not actually addressing pressing issues.
Thing is... first... we need a prize.
Suggestions?
Offers?
If juicy enough we will then ged our heads round the competition structure and on to as much PR as we can crank up. You never know... it may get spun (geddit?) to greater prominence by those with the media muscle to do so.
Because it's funny how things pan out.
I subscribe to many feeds and forums and lists to not only gain knowledge but also debate with knowledgeable others on various issues, often with a view to getting a... well, view... that might go beyond these pages and on to the site and newsletter. At least in a form that in being shared objectively may help others.
I am in the middle of one currently about the state (and it is sorry) of our nation's flood systems, warning and public comms. Interestingly, I had to go 'off grid' because one of those who know, or think they know better bemoaned having to put up with the input of mere mortals who often cop the sharp end of their highly-resourced conferences, consultations, research and trips all over the shop. And I can find their pronouncements from on high a crock of 'potential energy-from-biomass material'.
However, having gone off grid a while (sadly, you can't get profile and the good stuff without being noticed above parapet), I have found myself in highly productive discussions with some on an other area, namely wind farms.
The reason I am posting here, and hence also in the next newsletter, is that as a result of one conservation I am pondering a competition.
This is to see if there is/can be a low tech, low cost way of preventing bird strikes on wind farm turbine blades that simply make Jonathan Livingstone Eagle avoid the things, and hence at least get this 'yes highly important, yet pretty minor and distracting' issue (in the great scheme) off the cons list for a lot of folk, especially all major media with an eye to what sells papers and generates ratings, if not actually addressing pressing issues.
Thing is... first... we need a prize.
Suggestions?
Offers?
If juicy enough we will then ged our heads round the competition structure and on to as much PR as we can crank up. You never know... it may get spun (geddit?) to greater prominence by those with the media muscle to do so.
Tides of Opinion
I am aware on various issues regrading the controversial Severn Barrage tidal proposal; too much to hope our national news will help clarify matters sensibly.
I have written:
I have just watched the BBC Breakfast News 'report' on the Severn Barrage. Being already aware of the ecological objections I was keen to learn more objective information on the claim that it makes no economic sense, but this only amounted to a member of the RSPB saying so (if based on a 'report'). Hardly in depth. Or objective. 'Balance' was provided by an 'expert' who was quoted more on what the alternatives, specifically wind, would involve... to wildlife. What about the economic arguments we were promised? Or any hint as to this scheme's potential in reducing greenhouse emissions effectively?
I am also intrigued at the comment passed that governments should not be involved in huge energy projects. Er... do what?
Is the BBC just a mechanism to read out press releases, or can we ever hope to get news and analysis in forms these days that allow sensible understanding of the issues?
BBC - Concern over tidal barrage cost
I have written:
I have just watched the BBC Breakfast News 'report' on the Severn Barrage. Being already aware of the ecological objections I was keen to learn more objective information on the claim that it makes no economic sense, but this only amounted to a member of the RSPB saying so (if based on a 'report'). Hardly in depth. Or objective. 'Balance' was provided by an 'expert' who was quoted more on what the alternatives, specifically wind, would involve... to wildlife. What about the economic arguments we were promised? Or any hint as to this scheme's potential in reducing greenhouse emissions effectively?
I am also intrigued at the comment passed that governments should not be involved in huge energy projects. Er... do what?
Is the BBC just a mechanism to read out press releases, or can we ever hope to get news and analysis in forms these days that allow sensible understanding of the issues?
BBC - Concern over tidal barrage cost
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