David Miliband sets out to shock on global warming tour
When I saw the picture, I thought he was going to come up on delegates and go 'Boo!'
But no.
David Miliband will address EU, French, Swedish and Danish foreign ministries, to date unaware of the spectre of a 4C warmer world, with alligators basking off the coast of Sweden, a vast desert surrounding the Mediterranean and a largely uninhabitable mainland Europe.
That should have them reeling in the isles.
Maybe they will, as they are foreign ministries and this is from the climate side of things, and not all have brothers who know such things.
If not... He then travels to New York.
Bless.
I am sure they will all give Miliband. D a Gold Star for his latest effort. What is itabout the man that everything comes across as an 11+ project?
Addendum 1:
Meanwhile, at another token effort near you, our pols show just how much they have grasped not just the issues, but the public mood:
Brown turns down heat and Mandelson gets on his bike to support 10:10
When the readership of the Guardian is pretty much unanimous in their distain, you have to wonder whether they could tie their shoelaces without falling over.
Read the pledges, and what folk think of them.
Addendum 2:
Just heard the Director General of the Government's climate change task force (a title like that's got to be £150kpa minimum) taken apart by Eammon Homes (not an interviewer of great surgical skill you'd have thought) over some pretty daft claims. And it certainly didn't help his case when he tried to mollify those he seems to have told 'must' cut 90% of their emissions to keep their air industry going, by then saying he and his brood were off several times a year and might knock a couple of their international flights out in future to chip in.
I can see how that might have gone down with both the staycation brigade and those who could only afford a wet weekender in Tenby.
And talk about shifty. You could almost see him trying to scoot off stage left to get to the warm embrace of a BBC studio asap.
Addendum 3:
Live Q&A: David Miliband on the Copenhagen summit
Yes, that is the picture I would have chosen, too. A leader to follow to the ends of the earth, indeed.
Addendum 4:
BBC Newsnight - A stark message from the Milibands on climate change - 'a double act with a certain air of the hastily convened about it' - This from the BBC. They really are throwing the A team at this.
How the heck are we going to inspire coherent action from the majority of the population, when those few 'leaders' we have who do seem to have some inkling that this might be worth addressing (one hopes with the right reasons in mind) are either numpties, crooked, rampant hypocrites or (worst in my book) plainly incapable of a) understanding science (they all seem to have got z's in Politics at Oxford and seem to take verbatim whatever lobbysist - pro or anti climate-cause - who walks in their door as gospel) or b) identifying with the hopes, fears, aspirations and willingness to help of the vast majority of real folk just a tad fed up with being patronised, fined or cheated by a totally out of touch elite.
Times - NEW - Climate change talks ‘in danger’, warns David Miliband - And I quote: Mr Miliband refused to say how much the British Government was willing to contribute to the $100 billion (£61 billion) that Gordon Brown, the Prime Minister, said in June should be paid each year by developed countries to poorer nations to help them to cope with climate change.
Tuesday, September 08, 2009
Washing machine blues
A while ago our dishwasher packed in.
And in getting it going again, I managed to spin out a blog post. I have of course now lost it, but as a consequence of chatting with an engineer at the sharp end, I learned a few things, one of which was cold water washes may save on the water heating, but may not be that great on enviROI due to pipes getting bunged up through hot water not scouring them .
Well, it has happened again, and I am faced with a a similar dilemma on the price, if not principle of insurance.
Tricky. Stuart, the engineer, says it is a good model with loads of life in it, so I am tempted to keep on. But it is really a bet with the actuaries. 3 more years and I could buy a brand new one on the annual fee. Not a Miele, of course, but still...
Anyhoo, a few tips to pass on. All as a result of that rather nasty collection in the picture.
First up, change is very bad. Do try and ensure you do not leave any in. Thanks to the boys we did end up with enough for a pint, but it could have been at major cost. If the coin does not slide to the trap and gets wedged... major.
The other tip is as a result of the main blockage culprit, namely cord ties.
It is well worth putting any garment with flappy bits in a net bag first. Saves the bits being ripped off and the resulting strands starting a healthy bung.
Saturday, September 05, 2009
IN THE NEWS - From zero to hero?
What a nice way to wake up on one's wedding anniversary*
Fellow green Blogger Mrs. Green and her MyZeroWaste site have run a feature on reuse, and kindly bigged up Junkk in the process: National zero waste week - reuse something.
Let the mutual complementing commence!
* Especially when the missus has forgotten. Out to the garden to pick some posies to pop on the breakfast-in-bed tray for soon (etched glass sake bottle makes a lovely vase - drink the sake first), and I am in major brownie points for a while:) And before any accusations of an excess of thrift, we have three annually (it's an East West thing), plus I'm guessing we're headed for Yaks & Yetis for Nepalese fare tonight. Doubtless with the kids in tow. Something about 17 years seems to temper the romance somewhat.
Fellow green Blogger Mrs. Green and her MyZeroWaste site have run a feature on reuse, and kindly bigged up Junkk in the process: National zero waste week - reuse something.
Let the mutual complementing commence!
* Especially when the missus has forgotten. Out to the garden to pick some posies to pop on the breakfast-in-bed tray for soon (etched glass sake bottle makes a lovely vase - drink the sake first), and I am in major brownie points for a while:) And before any accusations of an excess of thrift, we have three annually (it's an East West thing), plus I'm guessing we're headed for Yaks & Yetis for Nepalese fare tonight. Doubtless with the kids in tow. Something about 17 years seems to temper the romance somewhat.
Friday, September 04, 2009
CampCon 5
There will be a few posts as a consequence of our Eurocamping trip.
Let's start with a lighthearted one.
It was inspired by two weeks of near perfect (if often too hot) weather in France and Italy, which made for easy pitching and striking.
With the staycation caution of arriving back at Plymouth to grey drizzle which persisted all the way home, from whence I looked out over the field opposite with drenched, hooded figures trying to set up or leave a campsite.
In homage to the US nuke threat system, I hence propose the following:
CampCon 1 - arrive in the dry, set up in the dry, stay in the dry, strike and leave in the dry.
CampCon 2 - arrive in the dry, set up in the dry, stay in all sorts, strike and leave in the dry. (Though in a way, sleeping under canvas in rain is fun... IF it then dries before you leave).
CampCon 3 - arrive in all sorts, set up in the dry, stay in all sorts, strike and leave in the dry.
CampCon 4 - arrive in all sorts, set up in all sorts, stay in all sorts, strike and leave in the dry.
CampCon 5 - arrive in all sorts, set up in the wet, stay in all sorts, strike and leave in the wet.
There are other factors - such as wind, red ant nests and previous tenant-bestowed dog poos - that could run this to many more. But suffice to say that getting you gear up and back in the dry is about the closest to nirvana as one can hope.
Thursday, September 03, 2009
Words and deeds
India's middle class must cut its hot air emissions
30-plus degree heat, 74 per cent humidity
Inside, their air-conditioners run 24/7
India's middle class must cut its hot air emissions
Just juggled those 3 sentences around a bit, whilst reflecting on how lucky we are here to have the ability to use almost no energy on adjusting our surrounding room temperatures for more than half the year.
And then considering how, if means and money are available, being told one must not use them will go down.
So the notion of our Ministers flying hither and thither in the attempt seems, at best, quaint.
In writing the above and posting it on the blog, I was of course pondering my own experiences in Singapore (32 degrees, 99% humidity, 24/7), and the odds of me not using a/c whenever possible (actually, we did only use fans in our home). And on our recent camping trip round Southern Europe (40 degrees, if low humidity) I was the first to concede that, without it, we'd have died in the car (plus reducing the mpg by having the windows open, he hopes, guilt-stricken).
But I have been moved to coin another descriptive phrase; that of the the Monotonous Meddlers. These guys seem not only to have an addiction to sticking their oars in everywhere and all the time, but also do it with little appreciation for actual realities, consequences or, most tellingingly, the rampant hypocrisies of their often selective and too often arrogantly stated positions.
And if they are p*ssing me off, when I agree with the basic premise they are promoting if not the manner, then lord knows how their pronouncements go down with their targets and/or those not quite so enamoured with the rightness of their causes as they are.
30-plus degree heat, 74 per cent humidity
Inside, their air-conditioners run 24/7
India's middle class must cut its hot air emissions
Just juggled those 3 sentences around a bit, whilst reflecting on how lucky we are here to have the ability to use almost no energy on adjusting our surrounding room temperatures for more than half the year.
And then considering how, if means and money are available, being told one must not use them will go down.
So the notion of our Ministers flying hither and thither in the attempt seems, at best, quaint.
In writing the above and posting it on the blog, I was of course pondering my own experiences in Singapore (32 degrees, 99% humidity, 24/7), and the odds of me not using a/c whenever possible (actually, we did only use fans in our home). And on our recent camping trip round Southern Europe (40 degrees, if low humidity) I was the first to concede that, without it, we'd have died in the car (plus reducing the mpg by having the windows open, he hopes, guilt-stricken).
But I have been moved to coin another descriptive phrase; that of the the Monotonous Meddlers. These guys seem not only to have an addiction to sticking their oars in everywhere and all the time, but also do it with little appreciation for actual realities, consequences or, most tellingingly, the rampant hypocrisies of their often selective and too often arrogantly stated positions.
And if they are p*ssing me off, when I agree with the basic premise they are promoting if not the manner, then lord knows how their pronouncements go down with their targets and/or those not quite so enamoured with the rightness of their causes as they are.
Wanted: One Napoleonic general.
Is successful innovation just dumb luck?
I am not sure who to credit this with, but I'll accord it to my old business partner who used it in my hearing first: 'Too many are content to be the first to be second. It's safer. The real excitement, and potential rewards, come from those who are determined only to be the first'.
Throw enough money, or people, at something, and it just might stick.
The real skill, and fun... and profit... is to come up with a great idea on a shoestring, and then get it to market on not much more.
I'm still working on the latter.
So I guess I'll accept whatever might help next. Even luck:)
But I'd also settle for a few less gatekeepers whose main function is to secure their positions by taking no risks, but also ensuring no one else around them might succeed where they dare not tread.
'No one got fired...' phoey. Think of what may have been if that attitude was stuck in a big blue hole.
I am not sure who to credit this with, but I'll accord it to my old business partner who used it in my hearing first: 'Too many are content to be the first to be second. It's safer. The real excitement, and potential rewards, come from those who are determined only to be the first'.
Throw enough money, or people, at something, and it just might stick.
The real skill, and fun... and profit... is to come up with a great idea on a shoestring, and then get it to market on not much more.
I'm still working on the latter.
So I guess I'll accept whatever might help next. Even luck:)
But I'd also settle for a few less gatekeepers whose main function is to secure their positions by taking no risks, but also ensuring no one else around them might succeed where they dare not tread.
'No one got fired...' phoey. Think of what may have been if that attitude was stuck in a big blue hole.
Well, it's nice to know we were, are and will be in good hands
Prescott: cutting emissions by 80% will not be enough
Sadly, it would seem that some do not feel this messenger to be the best for such a message.
For my part, I seem to recall a person who engineered a trip, with full entourage, mainly to get a suntan, when in a position of real power and responsibility.
Which rather shapes my views on him, his government, and the media who still accord them any shred of credibility.
Sadly, it would seem that some do not feel this messenger to be the best for such a message.
For my part, I seem to recall a person who engineered a trip, with full entourage, mainly to get a suntan, when in a position of real power and responsibility.
Which rather shapes my views on him, his government, and the media who still accord them any shred of credibility.
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
Going to the polls
You know how much I love 'em:)
Britain admits it is not green enough, reveals poll
Oddly, I do not recall being asked.
Especially such gems as this: 20%, even claim they would not mind a nuclear plant being built in sight of their house.
A rather clear sign this was conducted amongst those who have a fairly good notion that such a thing would never happen in their neck 'o the woods.
Beyond the presumption, there is more than a danger of some out there over-parodying themselves.
Britain is not green enough. But those who see themselves as the ones to do it with soem truly bonkers ideas are coming across as total numpties. And now, of all times, we need messengers who can convey the messages beyond the comfort zone of a very small readership.
Britain admits it is not green enough, reveals poll
Oddly, I do not recall being asked.
Especially such gems as this: 20%, even claim they would not mind a nuclear plant being built in sight of their house.
A rather clear sign this was conducted amongst those who have a fairly good notion that such a thing would never happen in their neck 'o the woods.
Beyond the presumption, there is more than a danger of some out there over-parodying themselves.
Britain is not green enough. But those who see themselves as the ones to do it with soem truly bonkers ideas are coming across as total numpties. And now, of all times, we need messengers who can convey the messages beyond the comfort zone of a very small readership.
CATEGORY - ALT ENERGY/GEO-ENGINEERING
A comment to a posting has inspired me to create this new category.
I will give pride of place to Dave of Solarventi, who had this to say:
Re: The BBC bit on the apparent failure of the iron filings experiment in the southern ocean (Under Geo-Engineering).
So the iron filings successfully caused a phytoplankton bloom. But, the phytoplankton were rapidly eaten up by voracious copepods, which were themselves then eaten by larger amphipods.
Now, please will someone correct me if I'm wrong here. I know that the CO2 sequestered by the phytoplankton was supposed to go to the bottom of the ocean as they died, but as all the CO2 that they took on board has been reused (digested!) higher up the food chain, and will either be sequestered to the ocean floor sediments as dead exoskeletons (the amphipods and copepods) or as their faeces, surely this is going to tie up the carbon in the ocean sediments just as well?
Hasn't the carbon sequestered by the phytoplankton actually gone into the food chain to be locked up elsewhere? Or am I missing something blindingly obvious here?
...about this:
ARTICLES
BBC - Setback for climate technical fix - I think Dave has a point! I still caution on these macro-manipulations, but a bunch of dead stuff heading ocean floorwards, taking carbon with it, seems a lot better than many ideas I've seen and heard.
Guardian - Obama climate adviser open to geo-engineering to tackle global warming
Guardian - The climate engineers - Can't say finding out is such a bad thing. But the comments so far are less than stellar. Hence I bailed.
BBC - Climate fixes 'pose drought risk' - Erk. Die of climate change, or lack of water? Mess with Mother with caution...
BBC - NEW - Plan B for Planet Earth - With a very scary graph. I had to look up Afforestation just to be sure. Or... don't cut down in swathes those that currently exist and do a pretty good job. Just a thought.
I will give pride of place to Dave of Solarventi, who had this to say:
Re: The BBC bit on the apparent failure of the iron filings experiment in the southern ocean (Under Geo-Engineering).
So the iron filings successfully caused a phytoplankton bloom. But, the phytoplankton were rapidly eaten up by voracious copepods, which were themselves then eaten by larger amphipods.
Now, please will someone correct me if I'm wrong here. I know that the CO2 sequestered by the phytoplankton was supposed to go to the bottom of the ocean as they died, but as all the CO2 that they took on board has been reused (digested!) higher up the food chain, and will either be sequestered to the ocean floor sediments as dead exoskeletons (the amphipods and copepods) or as their faeces, surely this is going to tie up the carbon in the ocean sediments just as well?
Hasn't the carbon sequestered by the phytoplankton actually gone into the food chain to be locked up elsewhere? Or am I missing something blindingly obvious here?
...about this:
ARTICLES
BBC - Setback for climate technical fix - I think Dave has a point! I still caution on these macro-manipulations, but a bunch of dead stuff heading ocean floorwards, taking carbon with it, seems a lot better than many ideas I've seen and heard.
Guardian - Obama climate adviser open to geo-engineering to tackle global warming
Guardian - The climate engineers - Can't say finding out is such a bad thing. But the comments so far are less than stellar. Hence I bailed.
BBC - Climate fixes 'pose drought risk' - Erk. Die of climate change, or lack of water? Mess with Mother with caution...
BBC - NEW - Plan B for Planet Earth - With a very scary graph. I had to look up Afforestation just to be sure. Or... don't cut down in swathes those that currently exist and do a pretty good job. Just a thought.
CATEGORY - WATER
I think until now I'd stuck this under Utilities. It's bigger than washing your car of a Sunday. So here's a dedicated category.
To kick off:
ARTICLES
Nature - Water special
Indy - Forget carbon: you should be checking your water footprint
Indy - The big turn off: Could you drink, bathe and clean using just 20 litres a day? - usual stuff, but with some interesting stats
Guardian - What's in your tap water? - When it comes to a fairly fundamental aspect of what keeps me & mine ticking, I don't really feel a healthy interest (or, if you prefer, 'worrying') constitutes an unreasonable notion, and certainly a worthy, if not more necessary action , rather than diversion versus the latest chatterati cause-mongering. But it is true that I do find myself 'worrying' a lot, and more often than not it is down to the media. So rack up another rating point. Now, where the heck do I find out what is in my Ross-on-Wye Springs via the blue tap? That's the trouble with just turning something on and leaving it open. There can be a lot wasted as a consequence.
Gaurdian - Forecast: dry, becoming drier -
Nature - Hydrology: India running on empty - Groundwater in northwestern India is being depleted at an unsustainable rate, which could lead to severe water shortages and reduced agricultural productivity. The reduction in groundwater cannot be attributed to natural climate variability, but is probably caused by excessive consumption from irrigation and other human uses. Satellite-based estimates of groundwater depletion in India -
I have accepted that 'we' are not helping nature (as in Mother, and trying to do what I can to help/mitigate), and nature is certainly not helping the climate. However, I think this highlights why we need to look across all aspects 'man's' endeavours before hanging all our hopes on 'solving' climate change with certain high-profile, low enviROI quick fixes. Especially to the exclusion (though climate does play a major role) of other pretty hefty aspects, water being high on the list.
BBC - India's unsustainable lesson -
WATER METERING
I think this deserves it's own slot, too. I do have a few references already, coinciding with our meter installation, but this will serve for other archiving.
Telegraph - NEW - Hang on Boris: who would be penalised by compulsory water meters? - Not the best of starts, mind.
INFORMATION
waterfootprint.org
DirectGov - Saving water in the garden
SUPPLIERS
freewateruk.co.uk -
To kick off:
ARTICLES
Nature - Water special
Indy - Forget carbon: you should be checking your water footprint
Indy - The big turn off: Could you drink, bathe and clean using just 20 litres a day? - usual stuff, but with some interesting stats
Guardian - What's in your tap water? - When it comes to a fairly fundamental aspect of what keeps me & mine ticking, I don't really feel a healthy interest (or, if you prefer, 'worrying') constitutes an unreasonable notion, and certainly a worthy, if not more necessary action , rather than diversion versus the latest chatterati cause-mongering. But it is true that I do find myself 'worrying' a lot, and more often than not it is down to the media. So rack up another rating point. Now, where the heck do I find out what is in my Ross-on-Wye Springs via the blue tap? That's the trouble with just turning something on and leaving it open. There can be a lot wasted as a consequence.
Gaurdian - Forecast: dry, becoming drier -
Nature - Hydrology: India running on empty - Groundwater in northwestern India is being depleted at an unsustainable rate, which could lead to severe water shortages and reduced agricultural productivity. The reduction in groundwater cannot be attributed to natural climate variability, but is probably caused by excessive consumption from irrigation and other human uses. Satellite-based estimates of groundwater depletion in India -
I have accepted that 'we' are not helping nature (as in Mother, and trying to do what I can to help/mitigate), and nature is certainly not helping the climate. However, I think this highlights why we need to look across all aspects 'man's' endeavours before hanging all our hopes on 'solving' climate change with certain high-profile, low enviROI quick fixes. Especially to the exclusion (though climate does play a major role) of other pretty hefty aspects, water being high on the list.
BBC - India's unsustainable lesson -
WATER METERING
I think this deserves it's own slot, too. I do have a few references already, coinciding with our meter installation, but this will serve for other archiving.
Telegraph - NEW - Hang on Boris: who would be penalised by compulsory water meters? - Not the best of starts, mind.
INFORMATION
waterfootprint.org
DirectGov - Saving water in the garden
SUPPLIERS
freewateruk.co.uk -
O....k
Is it just me, or does this headline kinda state the obvious?
I am also intrigued that, in porting this over, blogger has imported a typeface for the first time.
Let's also see how it deals with his gem:
Are you concerned about the spread of the fire?
All those not concerned about the spread of killer wildfires being?
Superb reporting and editorial. Just superb.
Let's also see how it deals with his gem:
Are you concerned about the spread of the fire?
All those not concerned about the spread of killer wildfires being?
Superb reporting and editorial. Just superb.
Monday, August 31, 2009
EVENT - IP - Greenfest 09
EVENT
WHEN: Tuesday Sept 22
WHAT: Greenfest 09, West Suffolk College
WHAT... MORE?:
HOW MUCH: Free, I think
URL: Not sure yet... try this: http://www.westsuffolk-ac.co.uk/general/contact_us.php
COMMENTS:Cripes, doesn't time pass quickly. Junkk is going to be there as an exhibitor, and it was an age ago that we were kindly invited. Yet here it is upon us. If you are in the vicinity, and allowed (I'm sure it is open to all)* do come and say hi, and see our latest reuse ideas on show.
*Ooops. It isn't. At least not yet. Just back from hols to note comment from organiser Amy. Sorry for the mis-info.
WHEN: Tuesday Sept 22
WHAT: Greenfest 09, West Suffolk College
WHAT... MORE?:
HOW MUCH: Free, I think
URL: Not sure yet... try this: http://www.westsuffolk-ac.co.uk/general/contact_us.php
COMMENTS:Cripes, doesn't time pass quickly. Junkk is going to be there as an exhibitor, and it was an age ago that we were kindly invited. Yet here it is upon us. If you are in the vicinity, and allowed (I'm sure it is open to all)* do come and say hi, and see our latest reuse ideas on show.
*Ooops. It isn't. At least not yet. Just back from hols to note comment from organiser Amy. Sorry for the mis-info.
Friday, August 14, 2009
CATEGORY - WIND
As with any renewable, I love the idea. I just cast an engineer's eye around the enviROI in practice in many cases.
Try and make your own mind up. Though between most media and governments I'd say you'd often be struggling to be totally clear.
Articles
Guardian - Big oil to big wind: Texas veteran sets up $10bn clean energy project
FT.com - Setback for UK wind farm push - Were it me, I'd have gone for 'Blow to...' Especially when one reads this: 'The large subsidies paid by electricity users to fund the drive towards wind power are generating profits for existing wind farm owners – without producing many new turbines'
Indy - Save peatlands from wind turbines - More facts than I have seen anywhere in a while. Thing is... are they accurate? I am guessing we'll not hear more as the caravan rolls on.
The Register - Shell pulls out of Thames Estuary mega-windfarm -
Telegraph - Shell disappoints with wind farm withdrawal - I merely note the competencies and responsibilities and agendas of those 'disappointed', but look also at this: Quite simply, the costs of wind farms are spiralling out of control. I think in terms of enviROI+, but most talk seems to be of image. Which is better for our kids?
Indy - Shouldn't local people have a say on wind farms? - There are many factors to be considered here; and most are important, if often different ones to different people.
However what often gets lots is clear data on the actual deliverables of energy to meet these 'targets'.
With expanding economies, and populations, there are frankly going to be demands of land and resources for all sorts of reasons.
In making tricky choices my major concern is that whatever else is going on, we are allowed to assess the merits of these alternative energy options on clear issues of ROI and enviROI (environmental benefits to our kids' futures), and not certain narrow, short-term definitions that are more to help box-tickers' careers, lobbyists bonus payments and contractors' subsidy-supported profits.
Telegraph - Wind Weekend to celebrate wind power - Another week/end, another feature/celebration of stuff that is 24/7, 365/365. I guess it must be good for PR with lazy media. Like me! I'll confess to having linked but not read.
The Register - Research: Wind power pricier, emits more CO2 than thought - I have been asking for more meaningful data, especially on enviROI as well as deliverables, for a while. Ta-da! However, doubtless there will soon be a ton more that totally contradicts this. Seems a heck of a lot of uncertainty still to be pinning £100B and the country's energy needs on.
Telegraph - Wind won't solve energy gap - A piece from a 'side', so the real value is in the thread replies.
Times - Giant turbines to make north Windy Central - 'Each could [my italics] generate up to 7.5 mega-watts of power, enough for 4,000-5,000 homes.' What, I wonder, do we know they can... and will generate. Why is this always left unknown? I am keen to be convinced, but such reporting leaves me always wondering.
Telegraph - Homeowners living near windfarms see property values plummet - A problem, but also something to bear in mind before accusing some of unthinking, unreasonable NIMBYism.
Telegraph - When the wind stops - the other side of the wind turbine argument - Some science (if from a clear 'side' - check the comments in reply. One only, so far)
Gaurdian - A blot of turbines - With a title like that...
Greenbang - Wind power: “Expensive and unreliable” - worth reading on as the headline is not all there is to it
The Register - Greenpeace: UK gov trying to strangle wind power - Um, why? I don't say they are not, but they say they are in favour. Confused?
Guardian - Report finds US is world's top wind producer
Times - Host of new pylons to carry wind farm power
Greenbang - UK wind: only for the rural - Now there's a thing. Who'da thunk and why did no one mention this before? Could have spared all sorts of eco-savvy folk money and looking like enviROI-numpties... like our next PM, for instance. Arthur, bring up more coal from the bunker, if you please! George, throw a few more rods in the reactor! Gives me a warm glow (I hope that's all it is) just thinking of the brain power being deployed on our behalves.
The Register - Carbon Trust: Rooftop windmills are eco own-goal
Times - Country out-performs towns in household wind turbine trials
Gaurdian - Wind farms are not only beautiful, they're absolutely necessary - Just gotta love objective headlines
RenewableEnergyWorld - Software Predicts Electricity Output for Wind - Now this looks more promising, but note reply
ASA - Interesting insights via ad complaint
Telegraph - Giant Upside Down Kitchen Whisks (GUDKW) to save the planet? - Can it be beaten? Personally I'd have gone for 'Blender Blades'... snappier.
Times - Wind turbines generate bonus for homeowners
Guardian - Spinning to destruction - Not anticipated by whom (Whilst being cautiously in favour, as an ex- Civ. Eng I recall wondering how a gearbox in the North Sea stood up), and when, exactly? At what cost? (ROI & enviROI?) And why?
BBC - When the wind doesn't blow - I read this as I read about a chap who 'saves' by using the energy from his next door neighbours' homes to radiate into his. Not too sure this system works too well.
EU Referendum - Trouble at t'grid
Inhabitat - Groundbreaking Energy Ball Wind Turbine for Home Power - Interesting comments and links to this
EU Referendum - Candour from the Beeb - I am starting to sense that not only has the cart been put before the horse, no one actually seemed to figure out that first you need a path to follow. This lack of informed foresight, intelligent planning and sensible, objective, agenda-free media oversight from major public media with immense resources is nothing short of a scandal.
Telegraph - Wind farms, hot air and spin , Wind farms fail to deliver value for money, report claims -
I tend to share most of the concerns articulated here, especially (ignoring a few other pertinent parameters) those of the actual enviROI.
But as an ideal I want the idea to succeed and remain ready to be persuaded. The advocates have not yet, at least in many UK locations, but may win me round.
However, in the same way, those in favour of nuclear also still have a job ahead, at least for this microscopic jury of one.
'...nuclear energy is the most realistic option for meeting our long-term energy needs.'
May be true economically (though I have seen rather scary numbers on simple ROI here, at least without subsidy - which comes from whom?), but I'd hazard that to tick my environmental boxes as well, a few questions need to be answered. Especially... long term... I'd like to have more confidence that there's a better notion of what will be done with the waste, beyond hoping that eventually a solution will be found.
Daily Mail - A load of hot air: Why spending £100bn on windfarms to please the EU is Labour's greatest act of lunacy - Caution: as the title might suggest, this is not what you might call a 'Pro' stance. I also query the claim; Labour might have had a hand in a few other odd and fiscally unwise efforts to challenge this assertion.
And no mention of enviROI.
Times - Wind power plans may be blown off course - Having just watched a YouTube of one that sounded quite noisy, before it exploded, I wonder what rpm was meant when the guy says 'You can easily hold a conversation under the blades as they whizz around'?
Guardian - Wind farms must be nearer coast to meet targets, says report - I always thought they had to be out there to get the wind (or they could all be stuck on David Cameron's roof) , but nearer at least improves the enviROI of maintenance.
Observer - UK wind farm plans on brink of failure
Times - Shell pulls out of its last UK wind farm project
Guardian - UK overtakes Denmark as world's biggest offshore wind generator
Newsnight - Some interesting, if unproven and possibly partisan comments in the comments at the end.
Indy - Winds of change: A beacon of optimism
Greenbang - Wind energy “capacity” - just hot air?
So, here’s a surprise. In one corner a pretty extreme climate optimist. And in the other the leader of our country, a very smart man… who spins on his own axis pretty much whenever the political winds shift. Currently a bastion of ‘green’. Who to believe? No help from the Telegraph. Any experts out there who can help. It’s just numbers after all.
Max/min/average ratings. Wind speeds. Efficiencies. Maintenance schedules. Lifespans. Etc.
With a few less clear influences as work: Targets. Bonusses. Subsidies. Fines. Lobbying. Etc.
So… what delivers an enviROI from construction through to decommissioning that has an enviROI my kids’ futures can depend on?
Anyone?
Times - Wind investment at a standstill
Indy Letters - I missed the piece that inspired it, but I reprint this with my usual caveats about being impressed by titles and concerns that today's major media seem quite content to share black and white in sequence, without really being too concerned that teh reader aquires any sense of subtle shades of green...
When the wind does not blow
It is all very well for Michael Meacher to call for a higher proportion of electricity to be supplied by renewables (Letters, 3 December) but he ignores the main objective of the supply industry: to provide low-carbon electrical power continuously, on demand.
Wind is intermittent and variable. The "cube law" is hardly ever mentioned. (When a 30 mph wind falls to 10 mph, the power output falls by 96 per cent.) The deficiency usually has to be made up by gas or coal generators. Other countries do not have to rely so heavily on carbon credits. The Scandinavian countries have available hydro-electricity. Germany can import electricity from up from up to nine countries. We have one cross-channel cable.
Professor Charles Hughes, FREng
Guardian - Spinning to destruction - Actually an old one I just stumbled across. My main concern with reliability is how it affects the enviROI (gearboxes and salt air don't seem happy bedfellows), but safety is also a maintenance-related issue and concern, too. However, the failure rate, so far, still seems low.
Telegraph - Do you really want a wind turbine? - Oo, facts. There's a novelty.
Guardian - Keep the blades of wind power turning
Guardian - Opposing wind farms should not be socially unacceptable
Telegraph - Wind Farms: the death of Britain - Wind still grabbing the headlines, and not always good ones. And this is a good (bad?) example. Between the piece and the comments in reply the divide makes a climate change discussion seem almost an exercise in polite compromise. It is important, as there is so much money involved. And my main concern remains the enviROI. What beggars my belief is that we have got to this point and there seems still no clear cut trustworthy, objective facts. And when those making the most noise are a target-obsessed government I wouldn't trust to build a sandcastle vs. an often very reactionary press, the issue remains downright obscure. Criminally so.
Telegraph - When wind power blows, jobs will fall - Can't comment on the objectivity of the facts (see above) but certainly a sober outline of some critical issues. Can't help be suspect that an article from a more supportive source would paint a different picture.
Telegraph - How can wind turbines generate so much lunacy? - Ditto. I guess you need to review the comments for 'balance'. But I do prefer cold, hard numbers. And the examples of how badly some media can apparently get them wrong...is concerning.
Guardian - Live Q&A: George Monbiot on wind power - It's a shame, but I rather find the Grauniad and Torygraph to be bookends when it comes to eco-objectivity, so at least this is likely to provide some 'balance' and maybe even facual considerations to the last few I have come across. I hope. I'd pose a question or two, but seom blogs are now too flamey for comfort. but worth a gander IMHO tomorrow.
Indy - Wind power plan blown off course - Don't know where the Indy rates for objectivity, but that headline doesn't bode well.
BBC - Newsnight - The iPlayer is only good for a week. But the follow up comments offer an interesting mix of viewpoints. I think the BBC really needs to address the qualifications of its 'reporters' in what is a very science/engineering-dependent topic (with a fair mix of enviROI economics in the mix - preferably without box-ticking targets and or subsidy-addicted lobbyists skewing decisions). Both to understand the issues and, as important, share them both objectively AND understandably.
Guardian - Wind power: Local difficulty - an interesting debate sparked and, indeed, still brewing, especially as more on the 'Two E's' aspects come out.
Guardian - Wind power: the silent majority must speak out, says Miliband - Always a tad concerned when minority groups (esp: pols) invoke the majority. Even more when mandates are presumed.
Guardian - A wind farm is not the answer - Get the feeling this is topical... and about as polarised as climate change? How is it that there seem yet to be few numbers that anyone can trust, and hence agree upon?
Grants
Information
BERR - UK Windspeed Database -
UK Wind Speed Database -
EERE - Wind Powering America - Its a start. An odd one; but interesting.
energy4all.co.uk - For setting up community projects
warwickwindtrials -
windpowertv.com - NEW - Clear advocates, but lots of useful information to add the knowledge base
Carbon Trust - Small-scale wind energy
Suppliers
allsmallwindturbines.com - Looks useful!
encraft.co.uk -
windandsun.co.uk -
weatherworks.co.uk
See labels below, especially under 'Alt. Energy' for previous notes. If you have anything to add to the headings above... share 'em! Direct to info[at]junkk.com or via the comments on the blog.
Useful Media
renewableenergyworld.com -
Try and make your own mind up. Though between most media and governments I'd say you'd often be struggling to be totally clear.
Articles
Guardian - Big oil to big wind: Texas veteran sets up $10bn clean energy project
FT.com - Setback for UK wind farm push - Were it me, I'd have gone for 'Blow to...' Especially when one reads this: 'The large subsidies paid by electricity users to fund the drive towards wind power are generating profits for existing wind farm owners – without producing many new turbines'
Indy - Save peatlands from wind turbines - More facts than I have seen anywhere in a while. Thing is... are they accurate? I am guessing we'll not hear more as the caravan rolls on.
The Register - Shell pulls out of Thames Estuary mega-windfarm -
Telegraph - Shell disappoints with wind farm withdrawal - I merely note the competencies and responsibilities and agendas of those 'disappointed', but look also at this: Quite simply, the costs of wind farms are spiralling out of control. I think in terms of enviROI+, but most talk seems to be of image. Which is better for our kids?
Indy - Shouldn't local people have a say on wind farms? - There are many factors to be considered here; and most are important, if often different ones to different people.
However what often gets lots is clear data on the actual deliverables of energy to meet these 'targets'.
With expanding economies, and populations, there are frankly going to be demands of land and resources for all sorts of reasons.
In making tricky choices my major concern is that whatever else is going on, we are allowed to assess the merits of these alternative energy options on clear issues of ROI and enviROI (environmental benefits to our kids' futures), and not certain narrow, short-term definitions that are more to help box-tickers' careers, lobbyists bonus payments and contractors' subsidy-supported profits.
Telegraph - Wind Weekend to celebrate wind power - Another week/end, another feature/celebration of stuff that is 24/7, 365/365. I guess it must be good for PR with lazy media. Like me! I'll confess to having linked but not read.
The Register - Research: Wind power pricier, emits more CO2 than thought - I have been asking for more meaningful data, especially on enviROI as well as deliverables, for a while. Ta-da! However, doubtless there will soon be a ton more that totally contradicts this. Seems a heck of a lot of uncertainty still to be pinning £100B and the country's energy needs on.
Telegraph - Wind won't solve energy gap - A piece from a 'side', so the real value is in the thread replies.
Times - Giant turbines to make north Windy Central - 'Each could [my italics] generate up to 7.5 mega-watts of power, enough for 4,000-5,000 homes.' What, I wonder, do we know they can... and will generate. Why is this always left unknown? I am keen to be convinced, but such reporting leaves me always wondering.
Telegraph - Homeowners living near windfarms see property values plummet - A problem, but also something to bear in mind before accusing some of unthinking, unreasonable NIMBYism.
Telegraph - When the wind stops - the other side of the wind turbine argument - Some science (if from a clear 'side' - check the comments in reply. One only, so far)
Gaurdian - A blot of turbines - With a title like that...
Greenbang - Wind power: “Expensive and unreliable” - worth reading on as the headline is not all there is to it
The Register - Greenpeace: UK gov trying to strangle wind power - Um, why? I don't say they are not, but they say they are in favour. Confused?
Guardian - Report finds US is world's top wind producer
Times - Host of new pylons to carry wind farm power
Greenbang - UK wind: only for the rural - Now there's a thing. Who'da thunk and why did no one mention this before? Could have spared all sorts of eco-savvy folk money and looking like enviROI-numpties... like our next PM, for instance. Arthur, bring up more coal from the bunker, if you please! George, throw a few more rods in the reactor! Gives me a warm glow (I hope that's all it is) just thinking of the brain power being deployed on our behalves.
The Register - Carbon Trust: Rooftop windmills are eco own-goal
Times - Country out-performs towns in household wind turbine trials
Gaurdian - Wind farms are not only beautiful, they're absolutely necessary - Just gotta love objective headlines
RenewableEnergyWorld - Software Predicts Electricity Output for Wind - Now this looks more promising, but note reply
ASA - Interesting insights via ad complaint
Telegraph - Giant Upside Down Kitchen Whisks (GUDKW) to save the planet? - Can it be beaten? Personally I'd have gone for 'Blender Blades'... snappier.
Times - Wind turbines generate bonus for homeowners
Guardian - Spinning to destruction - Not anticipated by whom (Whilst being cautiously in favour, as an ex- Civ. Eng I recall wondering how a gearbox in the North Sea stood up), and when, exactly? At what cost? (ROI & enviROI?) And why?
BBC - When the wind doesn't blow - I read this as I read about a chap who 'saves' by using the energy from his next door neighbours' homes to radiate into his. Not too sure this system works too well.
EU Referendum - Trouble at t'grid
Inhabitat - Groundbreaking Energy Ball Wind Turbine for Home Power - Interesting comments and links to this
EU Referendum - Candour from the Beeb - I am starting to sense that not only has the cart been put before the horse, no one actually seemed to figure out that first you need a path to follow. This lack of informed foresight, intelligent planning and sensible, objective, agenda-free media oversight from major public media with immense resources is nothing short of a scandal.
Telegraph - Wind farms, hot air and spin , Wind farms fail to deliver value for money, report claims -
I tend to share most of the concerns articulated here, especially (ignoring a few other pertinent parameters) those of the actual enviROI.
But as an ideal I want the idea to succeed and remain ready to be persuaded. The advocates have not yet, at least in many UK locations, but may win me round.
However, in the same way, those in favour of nuclear also still have a job ahead, at least for this microscopic jury of one.
'...nuclear energy is the most realistic option for meeting our long-term energy needs.'
May be true economically (though I have seen rather scary numbers on simple ROI here, at least without subsidy - which comes from whom?), but I'd hazard that to tick my environmental boxes as well, a few questions need to be answered. Especially... long term... I'd like to have more confidence that there's a better notion of what will be done with the waste, beyond hoping that eventually a solution will be found.
Daily Mail - A load of hot air: Why spending £100bn on windfarms to please the EU is Labour's greatest act of lunacy - Caution: as the title might suggest, this is not what you might call a 'Pro' stance. I also query the claim; Labour might have had a hand in a few other odd and fiscally unwise efforts to challenge this assertion.
And no mention of enviROI.
Times - Wind power plans may be blown off course - Having just watched a YouTube of one that sounded quite noisy, before it exploded, I wonder what rpm was meant when the guy says 'You can easily hold a conversation under the blades as they whizz around'?
Guardian - Wind farms must be nearer coast to meet targets, says report - I always thought they had to be out there to get the wind (or they could all be stuck on David Cameron's roof) , but nearer at least improves the enviROI of maintenance.
Observer - UK wind farm plans on brink of failure
Times - Shell pulls out of its last UK wind farm project
Guardian - UK overtakes Denmark as world's biggest offshore wind generator
Newsnight - Some interesting, if unproven and possibly partisan comments in the comments at the end.
Indy - Winds of change: A beacon of optimism
Greenbang - Wind energy “capacity” - just hot air?
So, here’s a surprise. In one corner a pretty extreme climate optimist. And in the other the leader of our country, a very smart man… who spins on his own axis pretty much whenever the political winds shift. Currently a bastion of ‘green’. Who to believe? No help from the Telegraph. Any experts out there who can help. It’s just numbers after all.
Max/min/average ratings. Wind speeds. Efficiencies. Maintenance schedules. Lifespans. Etc.
With a few less clear influences as work: Targets. Bonusses. Subsidies. Fines. Lobbying. Etc.
So… what delivers an enviROI from construction through to decommissioning that has an enviROI my kids’ futures can depend on?
Anyone?
Times - Wind investment at a standstill
Indy Letters - I missed the piece that inspired it, but I reprint this with my usual caveats about being impressed by titles and concerns that today's major media seem quite content to share black and white in sequence, without really being too concerned that teh reader aquires any sense of subtle shades of green...
When the wind does not blow
It is all very well for Michael Meacher to call for a higher proportion of electricity to be supplied by renewables (Letters, 3 December) but he ignores the main objective of the supply industry: to provide low-carbon electrical power continuously, on demand.
Wind is intermittent and variable. The "cube law" is hardly ever mentioned. (When a 30 mph wind falls to 10 mph, the power output falls by 96 per cent.) The deficiency usually has to be made up by gas or coal generators. Other countries do not have to rely so heavily on carbon credits. The Scandinavian countries have available hydro-electricity. Germany can import electricity from up from up to nine countries. We have one cross-channel cable.
Professor Charles Hughes, FREng
Guardian - Spinning to destruction - Actually an old one I just stumbled across. My main concern with reliability is how it affects the enviROI (gearboxes and salt air don't seem happy bedfellows), but safety is also a maintenance-related issue and concern, too. However, the failure rate, so far, still seems low.
Telegraph - Do you really want a wind turbine? - Oo, facts. There's a novelty.
Guardian - Keep the blades of wind power turning
Guardian - Opposing wind farms should not be socially unacceptable
Telegraph - Wind Farms: the death of Britain - Wind still grabbing the headlines, and not always good ones. And this is a good (bad?) example. Between the piece and the comments in reply the divide makes a climate change discussion seem almost an exercise in polite compromise. It is important, as there is so much money involved. And my main concern remains the enviROI. What beggars my belief is that we have got to this point and there seems still no clear cut trustworthy, objective facts. And when those making the most noise are a target-obsessed government I wouldn't trust to build a sandcastle vs. an often very reactionary press, the issue remains downright obscure. Criminally so.
Telegraph - When wind power blows, jobs will fall - Can't comment on the objectivity of the facts (see above) but certainly a sober outline of some critical issues. Can't help be suspect that an article from a more supportive source would paint a different picture.
Telegraph - How can wind turbines generate so much lunacy? - Ditto. I guess you need to review the comments for 'balance'. But I do prefer cold, hard numbers. And the examples of how badly some media can apparently get them wrong...is concerning.
Guardian - Live Q&A: George Monbiot on wind power - It's a shame, but I rather find the Grauniad and Torygraph to be bookends when it comes to eco-objectivity, so at least this is likely to provide some 'balance' and maybe even facual considerations to the last few I have come across. I hope. I'd pose a question or two, but seom blogs are now too flamey for comfort. but worth a gander IMHO tomorrow.
Indy - Wind power plan blown off course - Don't know where the Indy rates for objectivity, but that headline doesn't bode well.
BBC - Newsnight - The iPlayer is only good for a week. But the follow up comments offer an interesting mix of viewpoints. I think the BBC really needs to address the qualifications of its 'reporters' in what is a very science/engineering-dependent topic (with a fair mix of enviROI economics in the mix - preferably without box-ticking targets and or subsidy-addicted lobbyists skewing decisions). Both to understand the issues and, as important, share them both objectively AND understandably.
Guardian - Wind power: Local difficulty - an interesting debate sparked and, indeed, still brewing, especially as more on the 'Two E's' aspects come out.
Guardian - Wind power: the silent majority must speak out, says Miliband - Always a tad concerned when minority groups (esp: pols) invoke the majority. Even more when mandates are presumed.
Guardian - A wind farm is not the answer - Get the feeling this is topical... and about as polarised as climate change? How is it that there seem yet to be few numbers that anyone can trust, and hence agree upon?
Grants
Information
BERR - UK Windspeed Database -
UK Wind Speed Database -
EERE - Wind Powering America - Its a start. An odd one; but interesting.
energy4all.co.uk - For setting up community projects
warwickwindtrials -
windpowertv.com - NEW - Clear advocates, but lots of useful information to add the knowledge base
Carbon Trust - Small-scale wind energy
Suppliers
allsmallwindturbines.com - Looks useful!
encraft.co.uk -
windandsun.co.uk -
weatherworks.co.uk
See labels below, especially under 'Alt. Energy' for previous notes. If you have anything to add to the headings above... share 'em! Direct to info[at]junkk.com or via the comments on the blog.
Useful Media
renewableenergyworld.com -
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Sometimes a headline just warrants a post
The Underwear That Saved the World
The story is worth it, too.
Now, where's those scuzzy skivvies down the back of the laundry pail?
The story is worth it, too.
Now, where's those scuzzy skivvies down the back of the laundry pail?
CATEGORY - Climate Change
Still on a refiling roll. So check anything with CLIMATE for more until I collate.
I rather like the c0lour coding idea (Lord help us if I get into trying to accord shades). Let's go for Climate Optimistic and Climate Pessimistic
ARTICLES
Times - Understanding climate change - well, understanding it better, which still isn't very much, more like.
Greenbang - NEW - Psych! Climate change messes with our heads - A lot of this is, like D'Oh, but I prefer attempts at understanding to fights on fixed views.
INFORMATION
antigreen - CO -
climateaudit - CO -
climatedenial.org - CP - Nice catch on daft car ads
climatesci - CO -
omniclimate - that's a CO, safe to say
icecap - NEW -
Spiked - CO - Global warming: the chilling effect on free speech - I might just leave this up front out of alphabetical order. While one may or may not agree with it, I have to agree that in the cause of striving to make a point, very often the spirit of free debate is too often hijacked by pejoratives.
Oops. must have missed the link. Now, how to find it?
I rather like the c0lour coding idea (Lord help us if I get into trying to accord shades). Let's go for Climate Optimistic and Climate Pessimistic
ARTICLES
Times - Understanding climate change - well, understanding it better, which still isn't very much, more like.
Greenbang - NEW - Psych! Climate change messes with our heads - A lot of this is, like D'Oh, but I prefer attempts at understanding to fights on fixed views.
INFORMATION
antigreen - CO -
climateaudit - CO -
climatedenial.org - CP - Nice catch on daft car ads
climatesci - CO -
omniclimate - that's a CO, safe to say
icecap - NEW -
Spiked - CO - Global warming: the chilling effect on free speech - I might just leave this up front out of alphabetical order. While one may or may not agree with it, I have to agree that in the cause of striving to make a point, very often the spirit of free debate is too often hijacked by pejoratives.
Oops. must have missed the link. Now, how to find it?
Radio Silence is Golden... for a while
Just to say the Junkk empire is off on hols.
Gremlins permitting, the site should tick over while we're gone.
And the blog will be a tad thinner perhaps, though Dave of Solarventi might be able to plug the void with his as always worthy shares.
We might be in range of a WiFi spot on occasion, so you never know, the odd post or tweet might yet sail in.
And upon our return, we hope to share the joys of camping and driving an LPG car round France.
The only thing I am pre-dreading is the in-box here upon my return.
Au revoir!
My last task is to point you at the latest newsletter, and now to hit... post.
Gremlins permitting, the site should tick over while we're gone.
And the blog will be a tad thinner perhaps, though Dave of Solarventi might be able to plug the void with his as always worthy shares.
We might be in range of a WiFi spot on occasion, so you never know, the odd post or tweet might yet sail in.
And upon our return, we hope to share the joys of camping and driving an LPG car round France.
The only thing I am pre-dreading is the in-box here upon my return.
Au revoir!
My last task is to point you at the latest newsletter, and now to hit... post.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Buy one, eat one. Yes... FREE!
Not big on bans, but I have to say that this possible one is an exception:
The End of Buy One, Get One Free in the U.K.?
I have a study somewhere from my ad days that shows 'FREE' is by far and away the most potent word in the lexicon.
But it also had a breakdown of the other 'tricks', such as 'half price', two-for-one', etc.
Even the most ruthless and cynical seem powerless to resist.
But there really is no excuse between the two above. The result to the consumer is the same, and the amount of money per 'unit' of produce is no different, but one wins over the other through other factors. And they usually mean profits winning and planets losing.
I have a bee in my bonnet already on storage, especially in back of the fridge, and as we run down ours for our hols this is even more front of mind.
I really think we should try to get used to buying little, more often, and pay a fair price for doing so. And, if the right enviROI boxes can be added... locally.
That all said, the few comments in reply do bear consideration. Funny it's a US site talking about the UK.
Addendum - Supermarket offers and food waste targeted in goverment's food strategy
Aha... spoke too soon!
Telegraph - NEW - Food security cannot be debated properly without considering population density - Meanwhile, back at the more pragmatic, less box-tickophilic end...
The End of Buy One, Get One Free in the U.K.?
I have a study somewhere from my ad days that shows 'FREE' is by far and away the most potent word in the lexicon.
But it also had a breakdown of the other 'tricks', such as 'half price', two-for-one', etc.
Even the most ruthless and cynical seem powerless to resist.
But there really is no excuse between the two above. The result to the consumer is the same, and the amount of money per 'unit' of produce is no different, but one wins over the other through other factors. And they usually mean profits winning and planets losing.
I have a bee in my bonnet already on storage, especially in back of the fridge, and as we run down ours for our hols this is even more front of mind.
I really think we should try to get used to buying little, more often, and pay a fair price for doing so. And, if the right enviROI boxes can be added... locally.
That all said, the few comments in reply do bear consideration. Funny it's a US site talking about the UK.
Addendum - Supermarket offers and food waste targeted in goverment's food strategy
Aha... spoke too soon!
Telegraph - NEW - Food security cannot be debated properly without considering population density - Meanwhile, back at the more pragmatic, less box-tickophilic end...
Turning a new leaf... into energy?
This... is solar power (with a dash of geoengineering) I can get behind:
Scientists explore how the humble leaf could power the planet
Certainly a tad better than concreting over green belts for 'affordable housing' for certain voting blocs to cope with runaway population increases, and then fretting about 'food security'.
Scientists explore how the humble leaf could power the planet
Certainly a tad better than concreting over green belts for 'affordable housing' for certain voting blocs to cope with runaway population increases, and then fretting about 'food security'.
EVENT - LONDON - British Invention Show 09
EVENT
WHEN: 14-17 Oct
WHAT: The 9th British Invention, Innovation & Technology Show
WHAT... MORE?: From the blurb:
Inventions from around the globe are set to battle it out at the World Invention Awards & Exhibition in London. Entries already include a diverse array of unique ideas.
The three-and-a-half-day show, now in its ninth year, is run in association with the British Inventors Society and enjoys support from government partners including the IPO (Formally the UK patent office) and business link.
A panel of 18 judges from the British Inventor’s Society will put ecological and social benefits to mankind, as well as design, ingenuity and originality to the test, culminating in the presentation of the coveted British Invention, Innovation and Design of the Year Awards.
HOW MUCH: Various - for what it is, more than reasonable. See site:
URL: http://www.britishinventionshow.com/show/index.html
COMMENTS: And the best bit is... Junkk.com will be there, with the RE:tie. They have now kindly designated a 'green ideas' section. This is a great event. We attended once before, and even picked up a gong. But what makes it special is the atmosphere. There are all manner of folk with all manner of ideas. And the last time I was there I met many new chums... and useful contacts.
WHEN: 14-17 Oct
WHAT: The 9th British Invention, Innovation & Technology Show
WHAT... MORE?: From the blurb:
Inventions from around the globe are set to battle it out at the World Invention Awards & Exhibition in London. Entries already include a diverse array of unique ideas.
The three-and-a-half-day show, now in its ninth year, is run in association with the British Inventors Society and enjoys support from government partners including the IPO (Formally the UK patent office) and business link.
A panel of 18 judges from the British Inventor’s Society will put ecological and social benefits to mankind, as well as design, ingenuity and originality to the test, culminating in the presentation of the coveted British Invention, Innovation and Design of the Year Awards.
HOW MUCH: Various - for what it is, more than reasonable. See site:
URL: http://www.britishinventionshow.com/show/index.html
COMMENTS: And the best bit is... Junkk.com will be there, with the RE:tie. They have now kindly designated a 'green ideas' section. This is a great event. We attended once before, and even picked up a gong. But what makes it special is the atmosphere. There are all manner of folk with all manner of ideas. And the last time I was there I met many new chums... and useful contacts.
NEWS/Commercial PR - A wind up
I share this having had a PR just in, for no better reason (and it's a good one, IMHO) than I like wind up 'leccy gizmos. My supply of same is growing, and as we pack for our camping trip a veritable clockwork cavalcade is being created.Which has, just now... sparked an idea of my own.
Blurb (E&EO) from PR:
Slik Stik was invented by Denise Anstey - 2009 British Female Inventor of the Year. Following a major motoring accident leaving her significantly disabled, Denise set about designing an aid to overcome her personal challenges and in the process created an Eco friendly walking stick. Slik Stik is the perfect eco solution to anyone that uses a walking stick.
Fully rechargeable from mains and wind up
Slik Stik folds flat, but "pops up" as soon as you need it
Integrated front "search lights" and integral red strobe lights ensure that the user can see and be seen
Integrated alarm for attracting attention
Soft grip handle with integrated magnet for picking up dropped keys
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
It's in the Gaurdian so it must be true
Hard to figure the best category, so I'll give it its own post.
BBC accused of wasting £406,000 of public money a year on bottled water
'The broadcaster said it was assessing the "health issues" of switching from bottled to mains-fed water.'
The comments are also... choice. 'How dare you critique Aunty. This is like the Daily Mail....!' Interesting rationale.
Tries hard to keep straight face....
BBC accused of wasting £406,000 of public money a year on bottled water
'The broadcaster said it was assessing the "health issues" of switching from bottled to mains-fed water.'
The comments are also... choice. 'How dare you critique Aunty. This is like the Daily Mail....!' Interesting rationale.
Tries hard to keep straight face....
This deserves its own post...
Wit thanks to good chum/honourary Junkketeer Paul, whose overnight Far East timezone caught it first and alerted me (he recognised the twins' vocal talents, but not mine as I shoved a weed up a pole inside a plant pot as a video camera ran), our entry on the recent '1 minute to save the world' competition noted yesterday is currently on their home page.
Too early and peaked. Or get in right away to drum up support?
Time, will tell.
I am now trying to figure ot how on earth you do drum support as for the life of me voting seems unclear. Anyhoo, we have to October.
However, should you feel inspired now to add your vote (5* has a nice feel:).... link, and/or pass on to your chums. Ta very much!
Monday, August 10, 2009
COMPETITION - One minute to save the world
COMPETITION
WHEN: Now, deadline
WHAT: One minute to save the world
WHAT... MORE?: Hat tip: Five of the best short films from the One minute to save the world competition
HOW MUCH: Free! But with munny at the end... er... if you win:(
URL: http://www.1minutetosavetheworld.com/
COMMENTS: I had a bumper sticker made once that said 'Copywriters have to do it in 30 secs or less'. Didn't seem to get many girls, mind. See how ours does. It does have kids, and is for sure 'amateur' in production, but might suffer from a more gritty message of realism.
WHEN: Now, deadline
WHAT: One minute to save the world
WHAT... MORE?: Hat tip: Five of the best short films from the One minute to save the world competition
HOW MUCH: Free! But with munny at the end... er... if you win:(
URL: http://www.1minutetosavetheworld.com/
COMMENTS: I had a bumper sticker made once that said 'Copywriters have to do it in 30 secs or less'. Didn't seem to get many girls, mind. See how ours does. It does have kids, and is for sure 'amateur' in production, but might suffer from a more gritty message of realism.
JUNKK CATEGORY - FOOD-RELATED
This is 'in progress', too.
General
Times - Waste not want not, Gordon Brown tells families - Dear Leader on another winner. The BBC says he is 'urging' us. This suggest 'tells'. Whilst an encouragement to waste less is fine, I rather suspect this is not garnering the reaction intended.
Indy - Britain declares war on food waste - Ok, now it's 'Britain'
Guardian - UK is wasting far too much food - Brown - Fascinating to see how the same report is headlined. I wonder if anyone took a gander at the scrapings in the bins at the summit kitchens? Perhaps a luxury resort not the best locale to talk about conspicuous consumption & waste?
BBC - What's in your basket?
Guardian - Waste not ... A slightly more positive piece in response, though some of the tips do seem more geared to Guardian readers of a certain income level than most in the country.
Telegraph - Gordon Brown puts the spotlight on supermarket food waste - Good word.. risible
Guardian - The real waste is to reduce a historic study to soundbites
Guardian - What not to put in your fridge
Planet Green - How To Preserve Garden Produce Without Freezing or Canning!
Guardian - Government accused of buying food that damages people and the planet - What's good for the Go...ose?
Newsnight - NEW - Interesting follow-up comments. Any debate on food that ignores population and (in the case of a finite bordered area)/or immigration is, at best, 'selective'
Fish
Guardian - Is it time for fish rations? - Soylent Green is but a blink away!
Food Waste
lovefoodhatewaste.com
Guardian - Our culture of wasting food will one day leave us hungry - it has provoked a reply from a source I often have cause to respect. Like him, citing WRAP did not inspire confidence:
Bishop Hill - Importing food - Whilst I have seen some merit in the industrial-related areas of their remit, almost all directed at the consumer seem to be the worst examples of quangocracy, with vast budgets driving massive comms budgets designed more to meet artificial recycling/waste reduction targets so box-tickers can accord each other bonuses.
Which, as far as I am concerned, is a massive waste of money that could be directed much more productively to tangibles. Not to mention what seems to me a conflict of interest. If I am paid by shifts in public awareness, where will I direct my spend?
Pesticides
foodnews.org - The Shopper's Guide to Pesticides. Hat tip small footprints (link RHS opposite - I wish Blogger would let you run two windows so you can cut and waste URLs from other pages) for the heads up. More on the menu than we thought?
Salad
Guardian - Freshly prepared, bagged salads are a healthy convenience food - Brave lass
GRANTS
localfoodgrants.org -
General
Times - Waste not want not, Gordon Brown tells families - Dear Leader on another winner. The BBC says he is 'urging' us. This suggest 'tells'. Whilst an encouragement to waste less is fine, I rather suspect this is not garnering the reaction intended.
Indy - Britain declares war on food waste - Ok, now it's 'Britain'
Guardian - UK is wasting far too much food - Brown - Fascinating to see how the same report is headlined. I wonder if anyone took a gander at the scrapings in the bins at the summit kitchens? Perhaps a luxury resort not the best locale to talk about conspicuous consumption & waste?
BBC - What's in your basket?
Guardian - Waste not ... A slightly more positive piece in response, though some of the tips do seem more geared to Guardian readers of a certain income level than most in the country.
Telegraph - Gordon Brown puts the spotlight on supermarket food waste - Good word.. risible
Guardian - The real waste is to reduce a historic study to soundbites
Guardian - What not to put in your fridge
Planet Green - How To Preserve Garden Produce Without Freezing or Canning!
Guardian - Government accused of buying food that damages people and the planet - What's good for the Go...ose?
Newsnight - NEW - Interesting follow-up comments. Any debate on food that ignores population and (in the case of a finite bordered area)/or immigration is, at best, 'selective'
Fish
Guardian - Is it time for fish rations? - Soylent Green is but a blink away!
Food Waste
lovefoodhatewaste.com
Guardian - Our culture of wasting food will one day leave us hungry - it has provoked a reply from a source I often have cause to respect. Like him, citing WRAP did not inspire confidence:
Bishop Hill - Importing food - Whilst I have seen some merit in the industrial-related areas of their remit, almost all directed at the consumer seem to be the worst examples of quangocracy, with vast budgets driving massive comms budgets designed more to meet artificial recycling/waste reduction targets so box-tickers can accord each other bonuses.
Which, as far as I am concerned, is a massive waste of money that could be directed much more productively to tangibles. Not to mention what seems to me a conflict of interest. If I am paid by shifts in public awareness, where will I direct my spend?
Pesticides
foodnews.org - The Shopper's Guide to Pesticides. Hat tip small footprints (link RHS opposite - I wish Blogger would let you run two windows so you can cut and waste URLs from other pages) for the heads up. More on the menu than we thought?
Salad
Guardian - Freshly prepared, bagged salads are a healthy convenience food - Brave lass
GRANTS
localfoodgrants.org -
But at least they can tick the 'target met' box!
According to this from the Telegraph, the cost of the Gov's plans to move us to using more 'green' energy is not exactly going to provide much of a return on investment.
Cost: £57 to £70 Billion
Benefit: £4 to £5 Billion
That doesn't seem to make much sense to me, whether ROI or even enviRoi. No surprise that the numbers were buried deep within the strategy document then.
Hmmmm, I wonder who is footing the bill?
Cost: £57 to £70 Billion
Benefit: £4 to £5 Billion
That doesn't seem to make much sense to me, whether ROI or even enviRoi. No surprise that the numbers were buried deep within the strategy document then.
Hmmmm, I wonder who is footing the bill?
O/T, but I had to...
Those who engage with Junkk.com I often include with myself as Junkketeers.
So close...
Junketeering
But, that extra special K, not in a good way:)
So close...
Junketeering
But, that extra special K, not in a good way:)
CATEGORY - PLAYERS
I see all sorts of lists on these bods.
Who's who, who is more powerful, influential, etc
So when I see a profile in profile in future, I'll share.
And in a small tilt to an opinion, I'll also where relevant indicate whether they are, IMHO, climate positive or negative (though of course we get to the 'man-made' complication, and matters of degree - I do also note that I have rather flipped the common meaning/association of the word green in this context)
Bjorn Lomborg - TIMES - lite green (ironically), as he does, I believe see the climate changing as a threat, but is less committed to the man-made aspects, and especially the commitment of funds being espoused as a consequence.
Who's who, who is more powerful, influential, etc
So when I see a profile in profile in future, I'll share.
And in a small tilt to an opinion, I'll also where relevant indicate whether they are, IMHO, climate positive or negative (though of course we get to the 'man-made' complication, and matters of degree - I do also note that I have rather flipped the common meaning/association of the word green in this context)
Bjorn Lomborg - TIMES - lite green (ironically), as he does, I believe see the climate changing as a threat, but is less committed to the man-made aspects, and especially the commitment of funds being espoused as a consequence.
Sunday, August 09, 2009
.eco centric? Or 'tistical? Or just greedy?
Not sure that picture does one strapped greenie many favours.
Rivals bid to snatch green domain
Domaination!
.eco could be used as a labelling system to endorse companies with green credentials.
Uh-huh. And who decides? Not sure a bevvy of rules and fees will help much either.
This already looks like a race with the losers already decided, including the planet amongst them.
Rivals bid to snatch green domain
Domaination!
.eco could be used as a labelling system to endorse companies with green credentials.
Uh-huh. And who decides? Not sure a bevvy of rules and fees will help much either.
This already looks like a race with the losers already decided, including the planet amongst them.
Awwwwww
In keeping with my ongoing cowardice on certain issues, I merely share a view:
Baby emissions fuel global warming
Junkk Male
Father of... twins (coincidentally)
Baby emissions fuel global warming
Junkk Male
Father of... twins (coincidentally)
Saturday, August 08, 2009
CATEGORY - The 'Er' Files
A while ago I penned a headline that sums certain trends up.
So I have decided to log in a new Category when I see what may well be better in a green sense, but still really hardly qualifies as 'green' in the absolut. Professional journalists please take note:)
Telegraph - Bentley goes green leads to - Bentley Continental Super Sports review - The copy does at least qualify the home page headline.
Friday, August 07, 2009
Journeying with Veronique. Now our life is a gas, gas gas.
So we embark on a new and, I hope, interesting journey.Not long ago, our 'lean, green, Junkk machine' met an untimely end (the insurance nightmare, incuding the 'economic repair' consequences are another story).
Of course, it was green in colour only.
And while its unexpected exit from the roster was not what the doctor ordered, as one door closes (or should that be 'as one bonnet crumples'?), another opportunity arises.
Cutting a complicated series of circumstances short, meet our new main method of transport: Veronique, a Volvo V40 Estate (again... kids, safety, reliability, space etc), 1.8 (no more 200BHP... life does involve compromise)....... bifuel.
Yes, we figured that this was the best opportunity we'd get to practice what we preach (though we had planned to convert the previous one, at around £1500, which ironically would have made it 'worth' about what we ended up paying for our 'new' car... lpg inc. And imagine if we'd done all that and then 'lost' it?), and see what the pros and cons are of trying to be greener as we travel. And, with luck, save some money too, to further inspire the 'save green, make green' mantra.
I'll append this as a story under the Auto>Fuel>LPG section as well, but the aim is to be an ongoing 'living with' story, warts and all, of the personal journey we take with our new workhorse. It's not going to be a comprehensive view of the genre, as it is but one (2nd hand) model being used by one person, but the process and experiences may, I hope, be instructive.
The Purchase
Anyone who buys new must be rich, or bonkers. Or both. I know. I was... am. My last Volvo was purchased for £25k 12 years ago. It lost 1/3 of that as the wheels left the forecourt. And now, after much haggling (not an experience with a major insurer I expected, or enjoyed), it was deemed to be worth £1650. That was what I had to put towards the new one.
But if the market was dire for my 'selling' (or at least getting compensated), so was/is it once becoming a buyer. Except, of course, when it comes to bi-fuels. Despite everything, they are still pretty rare, and no one seem to have a real idea of 'worth'.
However, they are out there. There are sites. Such as the one that made the connection, ecocars.
We chose the Volvo mainly because it is factory fitted. A few garages we had spoken with did that teeth-sucking thing at the prospect of a conversion. No idea if that's fair or not, but it swung us as reliability was... is... key.
However, whatever you do, the law of sod will get you. Small tip on buying... it is worth having a possible purchase checked. If you can (not practical in our case as I had to train to Nottingham to see/get it. Though now I hear you can get an AA check at the purchase location). No problem with the engine (crossed fingers), but a lot of other twiddlies... tyres, brakes, suspension... that totted up to another £800. Caveat emptor.
Fuel Economy/Range
First impressions are good... and bad. I had a much more powerful model, and it gave me 32mpg on average. This has managed 34mpg on petrol and 25mpg on gas so far. Hardly inspiring. Now at 50p a litre (though it seems to be as low as 37p in some places I am nowhere near!!) that 'equates' to 50mpg, which is heaps better for sure, but somehow disappointing still. A 1.8 turbodiesel I suspect would deliver a lot more. However, there is what comes out of the pipe to consider. But I may just have the tuning looked at by an expert in case it's drinking too much for a reason other than my lead foot.
I was told that it would do 200 miles on a tank. Yeah, right. I'm looking at 150 if lucky. But so far I have done mostly motorway cruising and it's possible that is thirstier than a combo cycle, but I doubt it. There is of course an entire petrol tank there to use if you want, at the flick of a switch (seamlessly automatic when the tank runs dry), but lugging extra weight around is not a great idea if you can help it. You do need some to fire up, so I aim to keep a 1/4 tank in there, but we are resigned to stopping to fill up a lot more often.
There are pluses and minuses to this, and they are many and varied.
Of course there are not as many LPG stations around as other fuels, but nowadays plenty enough, spread evenly all round the country. And at the price you tend not to be so worried at variations, even at motorway premiums, though even these seem less hiked. They are easily found and or signposted. The internet is worth using to check the home area and destination (a trip to London will now require a fill before and there to get back), and there is a guide go-autogas.com or online options: lpgmap.co.uk, getlpg.org.uk, autogas.ltd.uk
I have also applied for a local scheme via countrywide, that may be more economical, and will report on this as it takes shape. (Addendum - It's all come through, and so far is proving more than worth it. Sadly the scheme is only regional, but at 39p a litre (vs. 10p more elsewhere) what's not to like? And it does rather offset the rather woeful consumption. In financial terms at least I'm getting about the equivalent of 60mpg).
The process takes a wee bit of getting used to but is not too bad, if a little off putting. The input nozzle is standardised in the UK (though not abroad, so some conversion pieces are required - keep them safe!), though the delivery mechanism can vary a tad. Basically you present a bulky nozzle to the input, slide it over a bayonet fitting (like a lightbulb), twist and then pull a big lever to 'connect'. This is all necessary because you are dealing with a pressurised gas in liquid form, so the seal needs to be tight. The delivery then is easy, involving simply pushing and holding down a button. It is disconcertingly quiet, and I have yet to try anything other than a complete top up, which cuts out automatically when full. Not really an issue when you are looking at £25 tops.
The removal is a bit of a palaver, and again disconcerting. You know the blowback hiss and spray you get after charging a lighter with gas, or disconnecting the camping bottle? Try that plus a few thousand %. It's clean, but smelly, nosy and visually 'exciting' . Many pumps do provide a shroud, but I have already found they make connection tricky as they interfere with the fuel cap flap. So I have been removing these.
Addendum 7 Aug : Good news everyone, though the cost per litre has risen in line with fuel prices, the government has increased the tax differential period from 3 to 5 years.
Living With a Bi-Fuel
The one immediate compromise, and hence negative, is the reduction in space. You buy a car like an estate not just to shift you and yours, but 'stuff'. Many is the early morning at the NEC when I have been unloading stand materials from a packed, floor to ceiling boot with the rear seats folded down.
Trouble is, now there is a dirty great bump poking up, swallowing a good 50 litres of space (well, much is down in the spare wheel well... another issue). This is the LPG fuel tank.
And the lack of a spare is worth noting in its own right. What there is, is a rather innocuous looking can of foam with a tube. I am prepared to be convinced, but I am none too sure about this. Maybe it will work fine as a 'get you to the tyre place', but I can think of a few of the few punctures I've had where that may not cut it. And especially whether my wife will cope. That said, while she may still be able to manage the jack, the wheel nuts have always defeated her, so this may be better. I am also told that using this stuff renders the tyre unrepairable, which could be expensive and wasteful. We'll see. I am wishing the insurers would have let me take the 'get you home' from the old car.
Congestion Charge
One bonus is this car should permit me to swan about London free of the CC. Not going to happen a lot, but the other night I had few choices but to drive as the event ended at midnight. Sadly, I entered before the evening cut-off and still had to pay. Why? Well, there is one heck of a lot of hurdles you have to jump first, and 'they' don't make it easy, because 'they' are pencil-pushers. For a start you have to apply, in writing, with all sorts of forms, which require you to access all sorts of silly websites that are poorly designed and/or don't work. And there are many departments, from Transport for London through the Congestion guys to the Energy Trust, all of whom point, and contradict each other. Plus you have to fork out a £10 'fee'.
Why all this, I don't know. If I drive in with a 'naughty' car, the cameras send the registration to the DVLA, who say it's naughty and they fine you. Can't the same be done with my 'nice' car, whose registration document clearly states its niceness. All I can say is I am glad I have factory fitted, as the post-conversion hoops look even longer and more arduous, involving Certificates of Compliance and other fun stuff.
Watch this space. I have not been 'approved' yet. It takes up to 10 days, apparently.
Addendum - Well, we knew this wasn't going to be easy. I have been rejected, because my make is not on the list. No matter that bigger bi-fuel Volvos that emit more, the S60 and V70, are. Or a backstreet conversion guy can manage it. So now I am in a nightmare between TfL, the Congestion Charge guys, Volvo and the Energy Savings Trust.
Addendum -
Volvo Car UK challenges the Mayor of London to Emissions Equality - via hat-tip tweet and tweet
Insurance
Maybe we should have checked with others, but when you are one car down and need another pronto you tend to go with the easiest, fastest option. And we were.. are.. hostage to the no claims protection. Yes it is newer, but a lot less quick, so I was again disappointed a bit to only see a £30 drop.
Come renewal, with more time to think, we may start looking at the eco-options that abound, and report back.
Car Tax
As we will with this. With the crunch, one suspects the heavy impositions on gas-guzzlers will not be happening, though one still hopes for an eco-concession. It will inevitably be relatively less.
That's it for now. As with all the blogs, this is meant as a journey, and one I'll share as and when.
First posted 16 Jan 09.
Also check Junkk - Auto, which has a section there
'Could' news - smokin'
'Cloud ship' scheme to deflect the sun's rays is favourite to cut global warming
Hmnnnn. Addendum - At last, man-made climate change is a threat - engineered by the global-warming fanatics themselves - Not a fan, then. But then, also not a scientist (noted in the replies). Geoengineering is another area I think I will observe, but avoid too close a contact with.
Hmnnnn. Addendum - At last, man-made climate change is a threat - engineered by the global-warming fanatics themselves - Not a fan, then. But then, also not a scientist (noted in the replies). Geoengineering is another area I think I will observe, but avoid too close a contact with.
CATEGORY - CSR (Corporate Social Responsiblity)
Another that needs its own category now. The good, the bad, and the ugly springs to mind.
ARTICLES
Corporateresponsibility.net - What does CSR really mean? A definition. There will be others.
GreenBiz - New - What's the Point of Corporate Responsibility Rankings? - And the winner is... Miss. Direction!
EVENTS
So many. And they cost soooo much (usually). I'll post the new ones in future.
INFORMATION
corporateresponsibility.net - New blog that claims to address the issue. Good start! More dedicated than here any road up.
I am also aware there is other stuff already on site, scattered about, that needs bringing under here, plus new things I'll add as and when. Check Labels (below) for now.
ARTICLES
Corporateresponsibility.net - What does CSR really mean? A definition. There will be others.
GreenBiz - New - What's the Point of Corporate Responsibility Rankings? - And the winner is... Miss. Direction!
EVENTS
So many. And they cost soooo much (usually). I'll post the new ones in future.
INFORMATION
corporateresponsibility.net - New blog that claims to address the issue. Good start! More dedicated than here any road up.
I am also aware there is other stuff already on site, scattered about, that needs bringing under here, plus new things I'll add as and when. Check Labels (below) for now.
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