The problem with online experiments is that the positives can be matched equally by the negatives.
So for all the advantages of speed, ease of creation, etc, there is that slight worry that the minute you hit 'send', it's out there, for all to see, with its flies open.
And one thing I have discovered is that few in the blog, and especially twitosphere seem of a mind to sidle up and say 'Psst... actually, this doesn't really work [for this reason....]. Maybe time to think of a wee review?'
Anyway, nothing ventured, etc.
Following some truly appreciated support, I am beta-testing (ok, trying out) a new twitter regime.
Basically, I am going to use the new twitter retweet button to scoot throught what comes my way, morning, noon and night. And as the system permits no comments, I can't and hence won't. So if the content delights... or enrages... with luck the twitocrats will realise that to get context they need to follow the trail, to bouquet or brickbat the authors accordingly for their <140 masterpieces.
Meanwhile, the plan is for me to go back over the day (if I have time... most likely next morning) and do a quick review of those that tickled my fancy.
Working title: TWEET 'N LOWDOWN (see who salutes:)
Well, that's the theory.
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
The issue.. as some would have it?
Just heard on the BBC as the talking head reads out what he's told to ask Prof. Sir David King: 'the issue is that a large number of people are saying there is nothing to be concerned about'.
Is this true?
Or is this how the government and its media shills would wish to see 'the debate' framed?
Anyone who thinks there are no issues of concern regarding PMWNCC is a) not being too rational and b) in a very small minority. Hence why play that up?
My concern, and I suspect that of others, is that 'climate' gets used as an excuse by already mediocre minds to try and compensate for fiscal failures elsewhere that will have zero or, worse, negative enviROI impacts on my kids' futures.
I smell straw men, and the media using them to frame...more like steer the issues stinks.
At least the talking head raised the contradictory point of Ed. Miliband shrieking about reductions whilst the government he is part of is advocating a 3-fold increase in air travel.
Addendum:
My first foray into how the print media complement the narrative:
http://www.independent.co.uk/environment/climate-change/we-wont-let-sceptics-hijack-climate-talks-1836029.html
Good to have standards. Not to have them as doubles
But this is an MSM that seems to see the US EPA and its timely actions as somehow unconnected with media management in a new era of command and control by big government.
And is one that also doesn't 'do' irony.
At least, watching today's broadcast news as I now catch up on the print.
Dancing to the tune of PROs of your mates and issuing news by press release does the BBC (or any medium) little credit. Especially when it is contradictory.
You either think greenhouse gasses are a here and now issue, or you don't.
Stick Ed Miliband and Richard Branson up together on this and I think most environmental correspondents' brains would freeze as anything either comes out with gets shared with zero critical thinking attached by our star-truck, government-slavish media.
Is this true?
Or is this how the government and its media shills would wish to see 'the debate' framed?
Anyone who thinks there are no issues of concern regarding PMWNCC is a) not being too rational and b) in a very small minority. Hence why play that up?
My concern, and I suspect that of others, is that 'climate' gets used as an excuse by already mediocre minds to try and compensate for fiscal failures elsewhere that will have zero or, worse, negative enviROI impacts on my kids' futures.
I smell straw men, and the media using them to frame...more like steer the issues stinks.
At least the talking head raised the contradictory point of Ed. Miliband shrieking about reductions whilst the government he is part of is advocating a 3-fold increase in air travel.
Addendum:
My first foray into how the print media complement the narrative:
http://www.independent.co.uk/environment/climate-change/we-wont-let-sceptics-hijack-climate-talks-1836029.html
Good to have standards. Not to have them as doubles
But this is an MSM that seems to see the US EPA and its timely actions as somehow unconnected with media management in a new era of command and control by big government.
And is one that also doesn't 'do' irony.
At least, watching today's broadcast news as I now catch up on the print.
Dancing to the tune of PROs of your mates and issuing news by press release does the BBC (or any medium) little credit. Especially when it is contradictory.
You either think greenhouse gasses are a here and now issue, or you don't.
Stick Ed Miliband and Richard Branson up together on this and I think most environmental correspondents' brains would freeze as anything either comes out with gets shared with zero critical thinking attached by our star-truck, government-slavish media.
IRONY ALERT - We have standards; at least double most
Just had to pop this one in to Aunty and SKY:
Watching today's news.
Some entirely welcome, and valid coverage on Copenhagen, and the issues at stake.
Then a few more pieces, followed by a commercial for favoured son Richard Branson and his next moneymaking scheme taking the uber-rich into space for a quick Kodak moment.
But it's all ok it seems, as the design of the craft is, according to the [at least in the case of the BBC, astoundingly] reporter, 'fuel efficient'.
Dancing to the tune of PROs of your mates and issuing news by press release does the BBC little credit. Especially when it is contradictory.
You either think greenhouse gasses are a here and now issue, or you don't.
Stick Ed Miliband and Richard Branson up together on this and I think your brains would freeze as anything either comes out with gets shared with zero critical thinking attached.
To be fair (if conceding two wrongs makes an MSM consenus) SKY had the same double standards as well. Who gives a sod about the planet if you get invited [to the Mojave Desert] by a ratings-cert Celeb billionaire to play with his rocket?
News generation by PRO and reporting by press release. Unique.
Addendum:
Having taken the broadcast media to task (and found that what was troubling viewers more... at least as claimed by those who select the emails... was a ban on 'pink'. Go figger), it was interesting to move on to their print cousins:
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/branson-unveils-his-spaceship-1836142.html
'The environmental impact would be minimal, Branson said.
"It's almost zero carbon output. We can put people into space for less carbon output than say, a flight from New York to L.A. and back, and that's for your particular seat on the flight from New York to L.A. and back," he said. "And I think in time, we will almost definitely be able to get to zero carbon output."
That is almost definitely a meaningless crock of... unsettling science.
Apt as the various debates around reducing GHG's swirl like contrails from a plane taking off from one of Gordon Brown and his government colleagues' (esp. Miliband. E) expanded airports.
But saying that would seem to make me a denier, or maybe saboteur? Too the too-cosy double-standard world some in the politico-media bubble live in, perhaps. Welcome to a Britain where the media is managed, and barely managing professionally it seems, other than via 'news' from press release by government or corporate PRO.
Meanwhile back at Copenhagen...
Telegraph - NEW - Virgin spaceman's flight of fancy
Watching today's news.
Some entirely welcome, and valid coverage on Copenhagen, and the issues at stake.
Then a few more pieces, followed by a commercial for favoured son Richard Branson and his next moneymaking scheme taking the uber-rich into space for a quick Kodak moment.
But it's all ok it seems, as the design of the craft is, according to the [at least in the case of the BBC, astoundingly] reporter, 'fuel efficient'.
Dancing to the tune of PROs of your mates and issuing news by press release does the BBC little credit. Especially when it is contradictory.
You either think greenhouse gasses are a here and now issue, or you don't.
Stick Ed Miliband and Richard Branson up together on this and I think your brains would freeze as anything either comes out with gets shared with zero critical thinking attached.
To be fair (if conceding two wrongs makes an MSM consenus) SKY had the same double standards as well. Who gives a sod about the planet if you get invited [to the Mojave Desert] by a ratings-cert Celeb billionaire to play with his rocket?
News generation by PRO and reporting by press release. Unique.
Addendum:
Having taken the broadcast media to task (and found that what was troubling viewers more... at least as claimed by those who select the emails... was a ban on 'pink'. Go figger), it was interesting to move on to their print cousins:
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/branson-unveils-his-spaceship-1836142.html
'The environmental impact would be minimal, Branson said.
"It's almost zero carbon output. We can put people into space for less carbon output than say, a flight from New York to L.A. and back, and that's for your particular seat on the flight from New York to L.A. and back," he said. "And I think in time, we will almost definitely be able to get to zero carbon output."
That is almost definitely a meaningless crock of... unsettling science.
Apt as the various debates around reducing GHG's swirl like contrails from a plane taking off from one of Gordon Brown and his government colleagues' (esp. Miliband. E) expanded airports.
But saying that would seem to make me a denier, or maybe saboteur? Too the too-cosy double-standard world some in the politico-media bubble live in, perhaps. Welcome to a Britain where the media is managed, and barely managing professionally it seems, other than via 'news' from press release by government or corporate PRO.
Meanwhile back at Copenhagen...
Telegraph - NEW - Virgin spaceman's flight of fancy
Monday, December 07, 2009
A time for RE:appraisal
Yesterday was my birthday.
And amongst a few nice things (my wife has been active on FaceBook and reconnected with some old friends who it was lovely to hear from) there was one, truly horrible one.
Which, though it affected me badly, and still is a matter of upset, might have been the best thing that could have happened in a long time.
It was a truly awful, personal 'tweet' on my twitter page.
This person had got a very wrong end of a stick, and instead of thinking for a few seconds had sought offence which, as I am oft prone to quote, if you are looking for in any way, it will happily present itself easily whenever required.
I was shocked by the passion and the bile. All in 140 characters or less. And all because we are in a time poor world where people react rather than think, and cheap talk has more value than considered actions.
Well, and here's the 'good' bit, after 24hrs pondering, I have decided enough's enough.
I enjoy debate. I think I am good at it. And I do think what I say can have value.
But talk can also be very cheap. And pointless. I have valued Twitter for the information it has brought my way, but 9 times out of 10 it has been in a form that is hard to trust and hence needs a lot of checking.
But not just Twitter. At the other end of the communication spectrum, even the so-called 'MSM' (main stream media) is now so corrupted by agenda, dubious affiliations and the seduction of career-driving ratings in an already facile 24/7 'news' environment, nearly all 'reporting' now is commentary, and all commentary is only as good as the person passing it. And that, these days, is near zero.
I have seen Copenhagen as an iconic event, much as many other sincere, idealistic folk. But now it has arrived I think it will just be another jamboree of tribalism and hypocrites jockeying for personal gain, be it monetary, career or ego-boosting legacy coverage.
Maybe there will be 'a deal', and maybe it will involve some positive aspects. If so, great.
But I cannot see the juggernaut that is the various competing global lobbying groups being influenced one jot by what I might think, say or even if the latter resonates with the few I share my views with.
So all the Twittering, blog-surfing and contributing has to stop. It was, is, and I suspect will be mere exercises in futility.
To make a difference I have to get back to doing, even if it is just in the smallest of ways. Because a deed that is appreciated and inspires can lead on to more, bigger and maybe even better ones.
So to that very sad, angry person: thank you. But I am not above hoping that by your words I will be returned to actions that will one day come back to haunt you and what you stand for.
'A great person makes others feel small. A truly great person makes others feel great'
Words to live by. And act upon.
And amongst a few nice things (my wife has been active on FaceBook and reconnected with some old friends who it was lovely to hear from) there was one, truly horrible one.
Which, though it affected me badly, and still is a matter of upset, might have been the best thing that could have happened in a long time.
It was a truly awful, personal 'tweet' on my twitter page.
This person had got a very wrong end of a stick, and instead of thinking for a few seconds had sought offence which, as I am oft prone to quote, if you are looking for in any way, it will happily present itself easily whenever required.
I was shocked by the passion and the bile. All in 140 characters or less. And all because we are in a time poor world where people react rather than think, and cheap talk has more value than considered actions.
Well, and here's the 'good' bit, after 24hrs pondering, I have decided enough's enough.
I enjoy debate. I think I am good at it. And I do think what I say can have value.
But talk can also be very cheap. And pointless. I have valued Twitter for the information it has brought my way, but 9 times out of 10 it has been in a form that is hard to trust and hence needs a lot of checking.
But not just Twitter. At the other end of the communication spectrum, even the so-called 'MSM' (main stream media) is now so corrupted by agenda, dubious affiliations and the seduction of career-driving ratings in an already facile 24/7 'news' environment, nearly all 'reporting' now is commentary, and all commentary is only as good as the person passing it. And that, these days, is near zero.
I have seen Copenhagen as an iconic event, much as many other sincere, idealistic folk. But now it has arrived I think it will just be another jamboree of tribalism and hypocrites jockeying for personal gain, be it monetary, career or ego-boosting legacy coverage.
Maybe there will be 'a deal', and maybe it will involve some positive aspects. If so, great.
But I cannot see the juggernaut that is the various competing global lobbying groups being influenced one jot by what I might think, say or even if the latter resonates with the few I share my views with.
So all the Twittering, blog-surfing and contributing has to stop. It was, is, and I suspect will be mere exercises in futility.
To make a difference I have to get back to doing, even if it is just in the smallest of ways. Because a deed that is appreciated and inspires can lead on to more, bigger and maybe even better ones.
So to that very sad, angry person: thank you. But I am not above hoping that by your words I will be returned to actions that will one day come back to haunt you and what you stand for.
'A great person makes others feel small. A truly great person makes others feel great'
Words to live by. And act upon.
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
Monday, November 30, 2009
The value of that cranked eyebrow
Been a bit quiet here of late.
More than I'd like.
It's just that, on top of the day job, I have been trying to stay on top of some rather hairy bits and bobs swirling around the blogosphere regarding the science of climate change.
And it's still swirling, at least in some quarters.
Which makes a little episode I was involved in today all the more pertinent.
From this blog:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/ethicalman/2009/11/a_guide_to_making_your_fortune.html#comments
It's all up there (for now... excuse me if I have some concerns about stealth editing from on high in certain quarters) so I'll just past the last one:
Further to my last post, I have now heard again from the BBC, and as it is not fully referred to in the note above, feel the explanation is worth sharing:
We owe you an apology.
The post as originally published did indeed contain a mistake, which was
corrected on Sunday morning.
We have now published an update to the blog, which makes this clear.
The reason we confidently informed you that no amendments had been made
to the blog was that we believed only one person on duty on Sunday had
the privileges required to make changes to Justin Rowlatt's blog - and
that person made no changes the copy. We have since discovered that
there was another person on duty with the ability to change the blog,
and this person made the change referred to in the blog comments.
Apologies again for getting it wrong in our first reply to your
complaint.
To which I have replied:
But I think you may owe the guy who spotted it more of one, and thanks for catching it. Which kind makes the general point I was making about a policy of flagging changes even more pertinent.
Order, for now, one trusts, is restored. But it does show the value of checking, and persistence. On top of not being above a cranked eyebrow when things do not seem to be adding up.
Indeed.
More than I'd like.
It's just that, on top of the day job, I have been trying to stay on top of some rather hairy bits and bobs swirling around the blogosphere regarding the science of climate change.
And it's still swirling, at least in some quarters.
Which makes a little episode I was involved in today all the more pertinent.
From this blog:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/blogs/ethicalman/2009/11/a_guide_to_making_your_fortune.html#comments
It's all up there (for now... excuse me if I have some concerns about stealth editing from on high in certain quarters) so I'll just past the last one:
Further to my last post, I have now heard again from the BBC, and as it is not fully referred to in the note above, feel the explanation is worth sharing:
We owe you an apology.
The post as originally published did indeed contain a mistake, which was
corrected on Sunday morning.
We have now published an update to the blog, which makes this clear.
The reason we confidently informed you that no amendments had been made
to the blog was that we believed only one person on duty on Sunday had
the privileges required to make changes to Justin Rowlatt's blog - and
that person made no changes the copy. We have since discovered that
there was another person on duty with the ability to change the blog,
and this person made the change referred to in the blog comments.
Apologies again for getting it wrong in our first reply to your
complaint.
To which I have replied:
But I think you may owe the guy who spotted it more of one, and thanks for catching it. Which kind makes the general point I was making about a policy of flagging changes even more pertinent.
Order, for now, one trusts, is restored. But it does show the value of checking, and persistence. On top of not being above a cranked eyebrow when things do not seem to be adding up.
Indeed.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Take the rest of the day off
Decisons, decisions...
Needing get back on the old blog horse more.
And as it's Friday, maybe ease in with lighter fare.
Amongst my worryingly burgeoning twitter follow list is this fine fellow, who I tracked back to his blog to share:
Reusable Bag Roundup
‘Which reusable bag is your favorite ?’
Still, gotta be… the one I made…:)
http://bit.ly/2e2qDL
And as it's Friday, maybe ease in with lighter fare.
Amongst my worryingly burgeoning twitter follow list is this fine fellow, who I tracked back to his blog to share:
Reusable Bag Roundup
‘Which reusable bag is your favorite ?’
Still, gotta be… the one I made…:)
http://bit.ly/2e2qDL
A subject dear to my heart
In so many ways!
Waste is a potential resource, not a problem
As a passionate advocate of reward over fine, nanny, guilt, scare, etc, all of which have worked so well with the public so far, I have to concede a cautious welcome to the principle at least.
But... shopping vouchers? To go and buy yet more stuff to throw away?
As some here have raised, reduction and reuse remain ahead of recycling in the waste hierarchy, so at the very least make the incentives as pertinent as they should be tangible. Discounts on energy saving schemes or items, maybe. Points towards big ticket items that lead to further savings, such as:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=17149
Or, if legal, allow aggregation and/or transferability, for compo or as a donation. I'd be happy to allow my 'points' go to buying a match-funded boiler for a pensioner over most tax-gouging redistribution schemes in the name of green that seem to be flying about (or to Copenhagen) from many in high office and held in low esteem at the moment.
Also encourage reuse at every turn:
http://junkk.blogspot.com/2007/10/reuse-exchange-sites.html
Better yet, encourage getting it designed-in:
http://junkk.blogspot.com/2009/09/idea-multi-use-large-container.html
All IMHO, better than an addiction to recycling which, as a last resort, is fine, if done properly:
http://junkk.blogspot.com/2009/10/bye-bye-rebox-hello-wheelie.html
I remain unclear on where all this box-ticking, target meeting recyclate ends up. Better than landfill to be sure, but... where?
Waste is a potential resource, not a problem
As a passionate advocate of reward over fine, nanny, guilt, scare, etc, all of which have worked so well with the public so far, I have to concede a cautious welcome to the principle at least.
But... shopping vouchers? To go and buy yet more stuff to throw away?
As some here have raised, reduction and reuse remain ahead of recycling in the waste hierarchy, so at the very least make the incentives as pertinent as they should be tangible. Discounts on energy saving schemes or items, maybe. Points towards big ticket items that lead to further savings, such as:
http://www.edie.net/news/news_story.asp?id=17149
Or, if legal, allow aggregation and/or transferability, for compo or as a donation. I'd be happy to allow my 'points' go to buying a match-funded boiler for a pensioner over most tax-gouging redistribution schemes in the name of green that seem to be flying about (or to Copenhagen) from many in high office and held in low esteem at the moment.
Also encourage reuse at every turn:
http://junkk.blogspot.com/2007/10/reuse-exchange-sites.html
Better yet, encourage getting it designed-in:
http://junkk.blogspot.com/2009/09/idea-multi-use-large-container.html
All IMHO, better than an addiction to recycling which, as a last resort, is fine, if done properly:
http://junkk.blogspot.com/2009/10/bye-bye-rebox-hello-wheelie.html
I remain unclear on where all this box-ticking, target meeting recyclate ends up. Better than landfill to be sure, but... where?
IRONY ALERT - Timing is all
Forbes - Will The World Go Shopping? - today
And tomorrow?..... Buy Nothing Day
Addendum: Buy Nothing day is only the beginning for a new counter-consumer culture
Guess this one (from top right on the page) won't be operational tomorrow:)
http://www.guardian.co.uk/green-shopping
Addendum 2:
Brand Channel - Today's Consumer Is [Insert Adjective]
And tomorrow?..... Buy Nothing Day
Addendum: Buy Nothing day is only the beginning for a new counter-consumer culture
Guess this one (from top right on the page) won't be operational tomorrow:)
http://www.guardian.co.uk/green-shopping
Addendum 2:
Brand Channel - Today's Consumer Is [Insert Adjective]
Reuse gaining favour again?
I have Dave of Solarventi to thank for this:
An £800,000 programme has been launched to ensure more household goods will be reused and recycled across Scotland.
Recycling agency WRAP Scotland has been given the cash from the £7.5 million INCREASE III fund to encourage community organisations to improve infrastructure for collecting and reusing furniture, white goods, carpets and other household items.
Grants can cover up to 50% of the eligible project costs and will be focused on innovative ideas that:
Work in partnership with local authorities to recover items for reuse from civic amenity sites, such as household waste and recycling centres.
Fill gaps in current service provision, either geographically or by type of household item.
Announcing the new fund, Environment Secretary Richard Lochheart said:
“Reusing furniture and household goods is a perfect example of a simple, cost-effective step that can be taken to help us reach our goal of a Zero Waste Scotland.
“This latest round of investment will specifically target areas where reuse facilities are not up to scratch, encouraging the public to reuse and recycle rather than dump their furniture and household goods which are often still in working order.”
Funding will be allocated through a single bidding round. Applications must be submitted by 8 January 2010.
For further information about the programme, visit the WRAP Scotland website (opens a new window)
Source: Scottish Government, 13/11/2009
Not certain quangos I cold mention, who have in the past done their best to ignore me, and my efforts, even to help them in theirs. But I shall persevere.
An £800,000 programme has been launched to ensure more household goods will be reused and recycled across Scotland.
Recycling agency WRAP Scotland has been given the cash from the £7.5 million INCREASE III fund to encourage community organisations to improve infrastructure for collecting and reusing furniture, white goods, carpets and other household items.
Grants can cover up to 50% of the eligible project costs and will be focused on innovative ideas that:
Work in partnership with local authorities to recover items for reuse from civic amenity sites, such as household waste and recycling centres.
Fill gaps in current service provision, either geographically or by type of household item.
Announcing the new fund, Environment Secretary Richard Lochheart said:
“Reusing furniture and household goods is a perfect example of a simple, cost-effective step that can be taken to help us reach our goal of a Zero Waste Scotland.
“This latest round of investment will specifically target areas where reuse facilities are not up to scratch, encouraging the public to reuse and recycle rather than dump their furniture and household goods which are often still in working order.”
Funding will be allocated through a single bidding round. Applications must be submitted by 8 January 2010.
For further information about the programme, visit the WRAP Scotland website (opens a new window)
Source: Scottish Government, 13/11/2009
Not certain quangos I cold mention, who have in the past done their best to ignore me, and my efforts, even to help them in theirs. But I shall persevere.
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
RE:PAIR - If it rains, this reigns
A little repair to the missus' brolly I am quite proud of.
And very 'Junkk', as it saved us £15 on a new one, and cost no more than a few moments of my time.
QUOTE OF THE DAY - 'World Leaders' Say The Funniest Things
“‘The fact that I flew here to sit on a panel for one and a half hours, then I´m flying straight back to the US, is an example of our commitment to environmental sustainability,’ boasts Indra Nooyi, CEO of PepsiCo, blissfully unaware of the irony of her statement.”
Taking Care Of Business
I have been quiet...er, here, of late.
Lots of reasons.
The main one is the sheer volume of information one can get, and needs to process, can overtake the ability to actually DO anything.
But I have also been subdued by 'events'.
The sheer incompetence of our political classes still astounds even as it exceeds one's worse expectations and fears. Matched only by the superficiality at best, equal incompetence and complicity at worst, of most major media... which frankly depresses.
And then, there are the rest. From activists to big business, as typified by that quote above.
Yes, I am keen to learn all I can and DO more to make the world a better place for my kids.
But the sheer, rank, hypocrisy of those who have set themselves up, and above 'us' is proving very hard to stomach... much less try and work around (as 'with' seems only to occur to them if there is money to be made, careers to enhance or a target to be met).
I love the resource that is twitter (and upon which this will appear in the net 24 hrs), but even with only a few hundred folllowees I can no longer do justice to following and re-tweeting (on sharing) what they post.
Hence a pause is called for.
Equally here, though I see more value to the 'causes' of Junkk.com, RE:tie and, by extension 'proactive, pragmatic, enviROI+ green advocacy' to popping out the odd post to maintain a presence. Probably more around my thoughts than on specific topics, as I simply do not have the time, or support, to do each one the justice it requires.
To get to that happy stage I need to earn some money. First up to feed the family. But then, if it flows as I hope it will again, to enable me to invest in what I need to make Junkk.com, and all that surround it, all I have always hoped it can be.
Taking Care Of Business
I have been quiet...er, here, of late.
Lots of reasons.
The main one is the sheer volume of information one can get, and needs to process, can overtake the ability to actually DO anything.
But I have also been subdued by 'events'.
The sheer incompetence of our political classes still astounds even as it exceeds one's worse expectations and fears. Matched only by the superficiality at best, equal incompetence and complicity at worst, of most major media... which frankly depresses.
And then, there are the rest. From activists to big business, as typified by that quote above.
Yes, I am keen to learn all I can and DO more to make the world a better place for my kids.
But the sheer, rank, hypocrisy of those who have set themselves up, and above 'us' is proving very hard to stomach... much less try and work around (as 'with' seems only to occur to them if there is money to be made, careers to enhance or a target to be met).
I love the resource that is twitter (and upon which this will appear in the net 24 hrs), but even with only a few hundred folllowees I can no longer do justice to following and re-tweeting (on sharing) what they post.
Hence a pause is called for.
Equally here, though I see more value to the 'causes' of Junkk.com, RE:tie and, by extension 'proactive, pragmatic, enviROI+ green advocacy' to popping out the odd post to maintain a presence. Probably more around my thoughts than on specific topics, as I simply do not have the time, or support, to do each one the justice it requires.
To get to that happy stage I need to earn some money. First up to feed the family. But then, if it flows as I hope it will again, to enable me to invest in what I need to make Junkk.com, and all that surround it, all I have always hoped it can be.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Funny what arrives in the mail
For obvious reasons, I try and figure out, or collect uses for RE:tie.
Helps when folk say... 'but who would use it, and what for?'
So it's nice when things fall in your lap.
Helps when folk say... 'but who would use it, and what for?'
So it's nice when things fall in your lap.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Neee...Oh.... Daaaaaad!
A while ago a writing competition was posted.
This is my entry:
To : My sons, as you approach adulthood
My Dear Sons,
I have always told you that the most we can expect is that you do your best, for all, and in support of all the right reasons.
What I have before now neglected to add was that you must never stop doing it. Follow those two principles and while you may never get rich monetarily, at the very least you will find a sense of purpose and rewards in other ways with, if you are lucky, the bonus of a legacy to be proud of.
But you only have one life, so don’t beat yourselves up on it; live it to the full as best you can, whilst you try and DO the best you can.
Now considering the topic theme I would like… need to make an apology. Not for anything I have done (though there are many things for which I am sure I should), but I am sorry to have been part, so far, of an ongoing failure.
It is the failure of my generation, plus one at least above (and a few below) to have sensibly managed very well this precious planet that all our futures so depend upon.
At one time I could offer the reason, if not excuse, of ignorance, and even less credibly, being ‘too busy’. This can no longer be true, of me or any in a position to effect necessary changes; from voters to those in, or seeking power with their blessing. Plus all those who also are attached to and can influence the process of local, national and global governance. Media, activists, etc. You know who your are.
Where the message is so key, so many messengers, often self-appointed, have failed with the importance of getting it through. Yet still so few seem able, or willing, to look inward and cease blaming others for failing to understand, but instead to hold them…ourselves to account for being so poor at explanation and/or persuasion.
It’s not enough to believe, you need also to convince by the power and skill of argument. Turning incomprehension or the shake of a head into a nod is an art, and a very rewarding one to cultivate. Do it well and you not only create converts; you make new friends. Always a plus.
Sadly, despite my best efforts at self-education, I must confess to still remaining confused on much of what to do for the best. And I fear the human condition, and all its manifestations, today, are simply too much for one person or even ‘leaders’ to get fully to grips with global issues sensibly in any form to simply hand me the answers on a platter. I don’t think most 'know', or can 'know' either. There is a strong case for admitting ignorance, so long as you show commitment to filling that gap quickly.
All I am aware of is that there is much that seems very broken, and hence needs fixing. And that we as individuals are well equipped in this regard, with our minds and our hands, to tackle the challenges ahead.
I give my pledge therefore to do my best to help support all laudable aims based upon just causes. It is all I can do to live up to what I have tried to inspire in you. And that is to do our best to spare humanity going to waste.
I might fail, at least in my lifetime. I hope not. But at least I will know I tried. So I invite you to join me. Always follow the positive path if you can, but don’t be afraid, especially of outside and especially peer pressure, to challenge what you feel is wrong. And remember, a question is not a threat (or should not be) if it invites an answer that moves the discussion along. Stay true to your instincts, but never be too proud to find out more, or admit error… and then be quick to change. And evolve. Seek to inspire rather than suppress; you may win arguments but hearts and minds can be much more sensitive, and hence of great value to win on side. And don’t be afraid to lose, so long as it has been for the right reasons. That said, see merit, and no shame in sticking to your guns to gain victory. People love, and support winners. And we all need the support of those around us.
Most of all, whilst there can and will be valleys to balance the peaks, only do what you do if you truly enjoy it. Bitterness or frustration are poor companions on the road to success. And while I do no decry words alone (this is a letter after all), never forget the value of setting examples, especially through DOING. The result of the smallest effort in this regard can place you way ahead and above the loftiest pronouncement or claim, no matter how high the author’s perceived pedestal.
If nothing else, this notion is something, I hope of value, that I can give to you now: not just to hope, but to try as best you can to make the world a better place.
If we do, others might. And in banding together we can make anything happen. Who knows, this may even register with a few in power too, if enough of us walk the walk as well as expecting that we all talk sense, and with honesty.
Never miss the opportunity to take pause to listen... every step of the way. Broadcast-only devices make poor communicators.
Oh, and if you can get to wangle decent careers to support you families whilst doing all that, your Mum says she will be thrilled to.
With love,
Dad.
Not sure I dare show it to the little sods yet, mind. Their new XBox game has just arrived.
This is my entry:
To : My sons, as you approach adulthood
My Dear Sons,
I have always told you that the most we can expect is that you do your best, for all, and in support of all the right reasons.
What I have before now neglected to add was that you must never stop doing it. Follow those two principles and while you may never get rich monetarily, at the very least you will find a sense of purpose and rewards in other ways with, if you are lucky, the bonus of a legacy to be proud of.
But you only have one life, so don’t beat yourselves up on it; live it to the full as best you can, whilst you try and DO the best you can.
Now considering the topic theme I would like… need to make an apology. Not for anything I have done (though there are many things for which I am sure I should), but I am sorry to have been part, so far, of an ongoing failure.
It is the failure of my generation, plus one at least above (and a few below) to have sensibly managed very well this precious planet that all our futures so depend upon.
At one time I could offer the reason, if not excuse, of ignorance, and even less credibly, being ‘too busy’. This can no longer be true, of me or any in a position to effect necessary changes; from voters to those in, or seeking power with their blessing. Plus all those who also are attached to and can influence the process of local, national and global governance. Media, activists, etc. You know who your are.
Where the message is so key, so many messengers, often self-appointed, have failed with the importance of getting it through. Yet still so few seem able, or willing, to look inward and cease blaming others for failing to understand, but instead to hold them…ourselves to account for being so poor at explanation and/or persuasion.
It’s not enough to believe, you need also to convince by the power and skill of argument. Turning incomprehension or the shake of a head into a nod is an art, and a very rewarding one to cultivate. Do it well and you not only create converts; you make new friends. Always a plus.
Sadly, despite my best efforts at self-education, I must confess to still remaining confused on much of what to do for the best. And I fear the human condition, and all its manifestations, today, are simply too much for one person or even ‘leaders’ to get fully to grips with global issues sensibly in any form to simply hand me the answers on a platter. I don’t think most 'know', or can 'know' either. There is a strong case for admitting ignorance, so long as you show commitment to filling that gap quickly.
All I am aware of is that there is much that seems very broken, and hence needs fixing. And that we as individuals are well equipped in this regard, with our minds and our hands, to tackle the challenges ahead.
I give my pledge therefore to do my best to help support all laudable aims based upon just causes. It is all I can do to live up to what I have tried to inspire in you. And that is to do our best to spare humanity going to waste.
I might fail, at least in my lifetime. I hope not. But at least I will know I tried. So I invite you to join me. Always follow the positive path if you can, but don’t be afraid, especially of outside and especially peer pressure, to challenge what you feel is wrong. And remember, a question is not a threat (or should not be) if it invites an answer that moves the discussion along. Stay true to your instincts, but never be too proud to find out more, or admit error… and then be quick to change. And evolve. Seek to inspire rather than suppress; you may win arguments but hearts and minds can be much more sensitive, and hence of great value to win on side. And don’t be afraid to lose, so long as it has been for the right reasons. That said, see merit, and no shame in sticking to your guns to gain victory. People love, and support winners. And we all need the support of those around us.
Most of all, whilst there can and will be valleys to balance the peaks, only do what you do if you truly enjoy it. Bitterness or frustration are poor companions on the road to success. And while I do no decry words alone (this is a letter after all), never forget the value of setting examples, especially through DOING. The result of the smallest effort in this regard can place you way ahead and above the loftiest pronouncement or claim, no matter how high the author’s perceived pedestal.
If nothing else, this notion is something, I hope of value, that I can give to you now: not just to hope, but to try as best you can to make the world a better place.
If we do, others might. And in banding together we can make anything happen. Who knows, this may even register with a few in power too, if enough of us walk the walk as well as expecting that we all talk sense, and with honesty.
Never miss the opportunity to take pause to listen... every step of the way. Broadcast-only devices make poor communicators.
Oh, and if you can get to wangle decent careers to support you families whilst doing all that, your Mum says she will be thrilled to.
With love,
Dad.
Not sure I dare show it to the little sods yet, mind. Their new XBox game has just arrived.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Cry Havoc, too often, in the wrong way, and...
Storm winds batter Britain
No looking good, to be sure.
Then this arrived:
A Flood Warning has been issued for the River Wye from Hereford To Ross On Wye area. Flooding of homes and businesses is expected. Act now!
The Environment Agency advises you to act now:
- Ring Floodline on 0845 988 1188 for up to date flooding information
- Stay tuned to radio and television weather, news and travel bulletins
- Keep a watch on water levels
- Move family, pets and valuables to safety
- Help neighbours
- Use sandbags or flood boards to block doors and airbricks
- Don't drive through flood water
- Be prepared to turn off gas and electricity supplies
- Find more information at www.environment-agency.gov.uk/floodline
Above all - be careful. The Environment Agency cannot be held responsible for any accidents, injuries, or losses, financial or otherwise, which occur as a result of this email. Forecasts cannot be guaranteed.
I don't know the best answer, but this cannot be it. Yet again, the footy field next to the river ended up waterlogged.
First time I move the family. Second time we glanced out the window. Fool me once...
Now we feel they are more making sure they can say they tried to avoid criticism rather than being sensible about helping folk make decisions. Box ticking. Target meeting. I called to suggest that this was losing value rapidly by being such a blanket alert and why not be more honest on the limits of the system and parameters. I was advised to unsubscribe.
Is there a metaphor here?
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Distract and rule
And rule seems to mean licence to gouge without check or balance.
Plus a few worrying stirrings on democratic process and freedom of speech. From the top, plus some less exalted, but oddly on message sources.
As it is still relatively small, usually civilised and may get read by the powers that be, I still invest in the Newsnight blogs (some BBC ones, like Richard Black's, are now beyond parody, as are most via such as the Guardian, which is a pity as they seem to wield influence out of all proportion to their readership numbers).
My big issue, as we barrel up to Copenhagen, is not so much whether there are climatic issues happening (though pertinet), but what the enviROI of proposed impositions being rushed through actually represent. Sensible, tangible global GHG curbs are one thing; giving every lobby-funded chump with a box-ticking wheeze the keys to the exchequer for a comms budget quite another.
I have thrown my hat into the ring on a few occasions in the last 24 hrs. A sampling:
Guardian - Should climate deniers be allowed to speak on the Today programme?
The exclusion of the barking to the biased from 'the oxygen of publicity' would be interesting, especially from entities that are happy to allow even terrorists to make their case. The trick seems to be inviting the right kind of 'unbalanced' individual on just enough to show 'balance', bit still follow agenda whilst not putting the glee club offside.
BBC - The Editors: A balanced approach to climate change
From the title on it tends to go downhill
BBC - Newsnight Thursday
BBC - Ethical Man Blog
And I fear I am not alone in my concerns about the trend
Iain Dale's Diary: Climate Change Poll: Britons Are Unconvinced
There also seems to be this odd notion that it is a wing' thing. For the life of me I cannot fathom how or why. Except where it comes to relative comfort with state, and state media levels of control.
Plus a few worrying stirrings on democratic process and freedom of speech. From the top, plus some less exalted, but oddly on message sources.
As it is still relatively small, usually civilised and may get read by the powers that be, I still invest in the Newsnight blogs (some BBC ones, like Richard Black's, are now beyond parody, as are most via such as the Guardian, which is a pity as they seem to wield influence out of all proportion to their readership numbers).
My big issue, as we barrel up to Copenhagen, is not so much whether there are climatic issues happening (though pertinet), but what the enviROI of proposed impositions being rushed through actually represent. Sensible, tangible global GHG curbs are one thing; giving every lobby-funded chump with a box-ticking wheeze the keys to the exchequer for a comms budget quite another.
I have thrown my hat into the ring on a few occasions in the last 24 hrs. A sampling:
Guardian - Should climate deniers be allowed to speak on the Today programme?
The exclusion of the barking to the biased from 'the oxygen of publicity' would be interesting, especially from entities that are happy to allow even terrorists to make their case. The trick seems to be inviting the right kind of 'unbalanced' individual on just enough to show 'balance', bit still follow agenda whilst not putting the glee club offside.
BBC - The Editors: A balanced approach to climate change
From the title on it tends to go downhill
BBC - Newsnight Thursday
BBC - Ethical Man Blog
And I fear I am not alone in my concerns about the trend
Iain Dale's Diary: Climate Change Poll: Britons Are Unconvinced
There also seems to be this odd notion that it is a wing' thing. For the life of me I cannot fathom how or why. Except where it comes to relative comfort with state, and state media levels of control.
Friday, November 13, 2009
There's saving votes, and there's saving...
How scrappage is reviving the world economy
If not the world environment.
'Green' was so yesterday... and might be tomorrow. But for now....
Just popped in a wee plug for one of those odd win-win notions I happen across that just don't seem to tick the right boxes for the target bonus brigade.
Talking of such things… and (anthro) global warming (which we weren’t, but some in high places often do, as and when it suits):
http://reheatbritain.org.uk/
If not the world environment.
'Green' was so yesterday... and might be tomorrow. But for now....
Just popped in a wee plug for one of those odd win-win notions I happen across that just don't seem to tick the right boxes for the target bonus brigade.
Talking of such things… and (anthro) global warming (which we weren’t, but some in high places often do, as and when it suits):
http://reheatbritain.org.uk/
Life
It applies in many ways:
The PR job
As my family is prone to saying these days: 'Profile! It's good for !@#$! profile???! We cannot eat $%^& profile!'
The PR job
As my family is prone to saying these days: 'Profile! It's good for !@#$! profile???! We cannot eat $%^& profile!'
Lock and load
Libertarian I may be, but this has 'moved' me.
Telegraph - The Dartz Prombron Monaco Red Diamond Edition armoured car sells for one million euros. It has gold plated bulletproof windows, pure tungsten exhausts, speed gauges encrusted with diamonds - and seats made from whale penis leather...
If some human pr*ck still in touch with their foreskin drives past on one of these, they'll need the armour, and need to be pretty confident I have not whipped up an RPG from Junkk.
22/10/09
Result: Sorry, No More Whale-Penis Leather for You - though I suspect the maxim that 'there is no such thing as bad publicity' applies on the remaining still obscene mode of transport
Telegraph - The Dartz Prombron Monaco Red Diamond Edition armoured car sells for one million euros. It has gold plated bulletproof windows, pure tungsten exhausts, speed gauges encrusted with diamonds - and seats made from whale penis leather...
If some human pr*ck still in touch with their foreskin drives past on one of these, they'll need the armour, and need to be pretty confident I have not whipped up an RPG from Junkk.
22/10/09
Result: Sorry, No More Whale-Penis Leather for You - though I suspect the maxim that 'there is no such thing as bad publicity' applies on the remaining still obscene mode of transport
Thursday, November 12, 2009
PR OPPORTUNITY - Making the best of it
The Telegraph has kindly published a list of:
Best Green websites
Oddly Junkk.com was not in the top 10... of green websites. For shame.
I have, however, done the next best thing... blagged!
So far... poll position.
Best Green websites
Oddly Junkk.com was not in the top 10... of green websites. For shame.
I have, however, done the next best thing... blagged!
So far... poll position.
PR OPPORTUNITY - Here come de judge
Like I always say, as he asked...
'Take a look at Mashable’s list of 75 green tweets and see how many you would really want in your Twitter window every day.'
Green web awards: upwards, onwards
I was grateful for that list, and pleased to add a few more I did not already have.
But you are right, a few really didn't seem to float my boat at all. Not to say some were not sincere or well done, but I found many that resided at the two extremes that frustrate me most (other than the two at each end of (A)GW), either preaching to a very faithful hairshirt flock in such a way as to repel 'liter' greens still keen to find out and change, to high-end fashionistas way above my pay grade. I am more Fiesta Family on a Friday Tesco run for the whole week rather than Prius Person using the wicker basket bike to get organic veg for a dinner do at the weekend Devon retreat.
Personally (and flying a wee selfish, self-promo flag here), I think (and hope) the future is in the hands of those who seek to inspire rather than hector, reward rather than punish and educate/entertain rather than strike fear or promote guilt.
It's a great world. We should enjoy every moment of making it even better, even when we are rolling up our sleeves to help support it while in need.
Thinking back, I believe I entered Junkk.com. Hope this little effort hasn't scr*wed our chances
'Take a look at Mashable’s list of 75 green tweets and see how many you would really want in your Twitter window every day.'
Green web awards: upwards, onwards
I was grateful for that list, and pleased to add a few more I did not already have.
But you are right, a few really didn't seem to float my boat at all. Not to say some were not sincere or well done, but I found many that resided at the two extremes that frustrate me most (other than the two at each end of (A)GW), either preaching to a very faithful hairshirt flock in such a way as to repel 'liter' greens still keen to find out and change, to high-end fashionistas way above my pay grade. I am more Fiesta Family on a Friday Tesco run for the whole week rather than Prius Person using the wicker basket bike to get organic veg for a dinner do at the weekend Devon retreat.
Personally (and flying a wee selfish, self-promo flag here), I think (and hope) the future is in the hands of those who seek to inspire rather than hector, reward rather than punish and educate/entertain rather than strike fear or promote guilt.
It's a great world. We should enjoy every moment of making it even better, even when we are rolling up our sleeves to help support it while in need.
Thinking back, I believe I entered Junkk.com. Hope this little effort hasn't scr*wed our chances
Not a lot, little 'Ern, not a lot
A wee while ago I raised the notion of 'Survival of the Selfish'
This is a worthy evolutionary addition to that:
What use is evolution to environmentalists?
The question of course depends on what aspect of environmentalism one is referring to, but outside of nature's self (as far is she is able without man's malign influence)-regulation, if it's to do with the bigger picture of (A)GW and various global hoo-haas/negotiations I fear that is a boat long since sailed.
There is a certain irony that, to read the full text, you have to pay. That is life, if not one Nature had factored in, perhaps.
This is a worthy evolutionary addition to that:
What use is evolution to environmentalists?
The question of course depends on what aspect of environmentalism one is referring to, but outside of nature's self (as far is she is able without man's malign influence)-regulation, if it's to do with the bigger picture of (A)GW and various global hoo-haas/negotiations I fear that is a boat long since sailed.
There is a certain irony that, to read the full text, you have to pay. That is life, if not one Nature had factored in, perhaps.
The TOL Bar - e-will
Still grappling with an unhealthy addiction to twitter.
It's just that it... is... so... darn... useful for new info, usually linked.
Soooo hard to resist.
And, often, soooo hard not to either RT or draft a reply, which with a total of 140 characters (inc. original) can be a challenge; one that takes time.
But I know it is detracting from here.
The solution, I think is a compromise (for now): I'll keep up with both, but cut down on the rehashing (#re - that is more apt than you think) as frankly a lot of folk just shunt the same info or opinion around endlessly, and try and focus on adding value.
I cannot claim to get hold of much original 'news', so this means, mainly, data and/or ideas.
As here, in the latest 'Thinking Out Loud" label post.
It has been inspired by this:
What happens to email after you die
Inspired but, ironically, little actually to do with its main premise, more on personal privacy.
I'm thinking the 'cost' of online existence.
Already, I daily 'enjoy' gigabytes of stuff flowing in, much of which I don't even look at at all much less skip. I tend to keep 'em all 'cos I'm hoarder by nature, but also the 'missing the nugget in the tailings' fear. I should cancel many... most, but don't. Just in case. And, heck, they might appreciate the numbers on the ratings board.
But what about when I pop off or, as seems more likely, one day suffer info overload rage and decide to really get back to my shed and hope a passing airship full of VCs and journalists passes over head and sees my latest creation?
Plugs may well get pulled, but I doubt that much will happen to the outpouring, though the size of in-box caches may well eventually lead to a blockage. Maybe even a 'full' sign that properly washed mailings will pick up on and self-cancel.
But for the rest...?
Maybe the creation of some kind of e-will of things to cancel might leave a legacy that helps the planet as well, if in a small way? It might need some effort to set up and carry out, plus the scary notion of post-mortem access to passwords, but I wonder if it may be worth it?
It's just that it... is... so... darn... useful for new info, usually linked.
Soooo hard to resist.
And, often, soooo hard not to either RT or draft a reply, which with a total of 140 characters (inc. original) can be a challenge; one that takes time.
But I know it is detracting from here.
The solution, I think is a compromise (for now): I'll keep up with both, but cut down on the rehashing (#re - that is more apt than you think) as frankly a lot of folk just shunt the same info or opinion around endlessly, and try and focus on adding value.
I cannot claim to get hold of much original 'news', so this means, mainly, data and/or ideas.
As here, in the latest 'Thinking Out Loud" label post.
It has been inspired by this:
What happens to email after you die
Inspired but, ironically, little actually to do with its main premise, more on personal privacy.
I'm thinking the 'cost' of online existence.
Already, I daily 'enjoy' gigabytes of stuff flowing in, much of which I don't even look at at all much less skip. I tend to keep 'em all 'cos I'm hoarder by nature, but also the 'missing the nugget in the tailings' fear. I should cancel many... most, but don't. Just in case. And, heck, they might appreciate the numbers on the ratings board.
But what about when I pop off or, as seems more likely, one day suffer info overload rage and decide to really get back to my shed and hope a passing airship full of VCs and journalists passes over head and sees my latest creation?
Plugs may well get pulled, but I doubt that much will happen to the outpouring, though the size of in-box caches may well eventually lead to a blockage. Maybe even a 'full' sign that properly washed mailings will pick up on and self-cancel.
But for the rest...?
Maybe the creation of some kind of e-will of things to cancel might leave a legacy that helps the planet as well, if in a small way? It might need some effort to set up and carry out, plus the scary notion of post-mortem access to passwords, but I wonder if it may be worth it?
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
A site for sore eyes, ears...
Every so often a site comes along that I just like.
This is one such: unclutterer.com
For no better reason than that, I am happy to share:)
This is one such: unclutterer.com
For no better reason than that, I am happy to share:)
Climate of confusion
Newsnight is one of the more significant news/current affairs programmes we have in this country.
That's not saying a lot.
I watched this, and the protagonists selected, with my jaw on the ground.
How much has changed?
Just watched the chat... 'legally-binding' came up a lot. Lot of eggs in the kitchen?
I just hope that, whatever does get discussed, agreed, and bound up, most people will move beyond the fact that a treaty has been established to what it's actually committing folk to and with what in mind.
With the current level of global boxtickocracy and short-term legacy jockeying, I'll be fascinated whether emissions actually get reduced, or just shunted around a lot more as various interested parties take their cut.
Monday 9 November 2009
Just now watched Mr. Rowlatt's kitchen cabinet meeting.
If this is the calibre of political heft and serious journalism surrounding this huge, complex, vital issue that we may expect... oh.
I do indeed now expect that President 'only if it's going to look good' O will swing by to bestow blessings on a bit of a thing... and no one present, observing or hoping to be adequately informed will end up having the slightest clue who has committed to what and whether it will make a blind bit of difference - save to boost business and first class seat uptake, convention hotel and 5 star restaurant bookings, and a few folks' golf handicaps. These things always seem to happen, a lot, in nice places.
Meanwhile populations will grow, economies will need to expand, forests will be felled, green fields will turn first brown and then get concreted over, affordably, runways will be added, nukes will get commissioned... and a BBC 'science' moppet will point at the business end of a Tesla as others will Copenhagen and declaim 'Look... it's not emitting, and meeting all sorts of lovely bonus-driving, fine-avoiding, lobby-pleasing targets'. So long as such things make sense environmentally and practically in complement with other socio-economic parameters, fine. If not, its just a silly game, with the only winners being those on the pitch and a few in the sponsors' and media boxes, with the rest paying.
However, it is not enough to observe and/or critique, so when the opportunity presents I will grab it:
Update on your questions for Ed Miliband
What will be the outcome to total global emissions of a 'successful' outcome?
Then... where from? Up or down? Country by country, industry by industry. Plus cost impositions... or gains, as a consequence.
And of these what % will be tangible, practical, genuine enviROI+ reductions, and what % redistribution or redesignation?
How, with expanding populations encroaching or dependent on ever more territory and resources can the growing economy mantra from all governments to support these be satisfied without further increases in consumption and hence pollution vs. in the situation suggested, held and reduced?
There is no such thing as a free lunch. What, honestly, is going to have to give? In terms a worker in a factory making stuff to sell and be consumed can relate to job wise, to the lifestyle-centric mind of a student with an eye on the latest iPhone or LCD TV from John Lewis (non-list) can relate to. For good or ill.
In committing all efforts and funds to avoiding/mitigating the potential consequences of (A)GW, has any thought been given to the possibility that it is (now/already, as claimed by some in high office) unavoidable (whatever the cause) and contingencies made to support best practice coping mechanisms?
Or are all bets on 'man' being the sole cause, and hence all efforts by our race should be committed to reversing our impacts?
In case this proves incorrect, and/or the efforts made prove ineffective/insufficient, what will be the consequences to this country?
I am hoping he might answer some, and the key ones, and not waffle. Or choose a distracting line.
I have tried to be careful to avoid any hint that my concern is on whether PMWNCC is happening as per any 'line' or fact to prevent the inevitable extreme artillery barrages. My interest is in what he and his merry crew have actually considered or, and equally important, not considered around the consequences of a 'warming' planet.
I just had a mate call me up in a rage. He took the now redundant RE:boxes to the bring site as his new green wheelie has arrived to improve things. They wouldn't take it and suggested he pop over the road and pop it in the landfill skip. Somewhere a box is binned and another is ticked or a target in one area is met that is not counted against one lost in another. And a planet weeps another tear.
But I will never stop trying to find tangible, practical, enviROI+ solutions wherever and whenever I can. Always have (wow, was it 5 years ago? And those boxes had years left in them yet). Always will. If I am able.
That's not saying a lot.
I watched this, and the protagonists selected, with my jaw on the ground.
How much has changed?
Just watched the chat... 'legally-binding' came up a lot. Lot of eggs in the kitchen?
I just hope that, whatever does get discussed, agreed, and bound up, most people will move beyond the fact that a treaty has been established to what it's actually committing folk to and with what in mind.
With the current level of global boxtickocracy and short-term legacy jockeying, I'll be fascinated whether emissions actually get reduced, or just shunted around a lot more as various interested parties take their cut.
Monday 9 November 2009
Just now watched Mr. Rowlatt's kitchen cabinet meeting.
If this is the calibre of political heft and serious journalism surrounding this huge, complex, vital issue that we may expect... oh.
I do indeed now expect that President 'only if it's going to look good' O will swing by to bestow blessings on a bit of a thing... and no one present, observing or hoping to be adequately informed will end up having the slightest clue who has committed to what and whether it will make a blind bit of difference - save to boost business and first class seat uptake, convention hotel and 5 star restaurant bookings, and a few folks' golf handicaps. These things always seem to happen, a lot, in nice places.
Meanwhile populations will grow, economies will need to expand, forests will be felled, green fields will turn first brown and then get concreted over, affordably, runways will be added, nukes will get commissioned... and a BBC 'science' moppet will point at the business end of a Tesla as others will Copenhagen and declaim 'Look... it's not emitting, and meeting all sorts of lovely bonus-driving, fine-avoiding, lobby-pleasing targets'. So long as such things make sense environmentally and practically in complement with other socio-economic parameters, fine. If not, its just a silly game, with the only winners being those on the pitch and a few in the sponsors' and media boxes, with the rest paying.
However, it is not enough to observe and/or critique, so when the opportunity presents I will grab it:
Update on your questions for Ed Miliband
What will be the outcome to total global emissions of a 'successful' outcome?
Then... where from? Up or down? Country by country, industry by industry. Plus cost impositions... or gains, as a consequence.
And of these what % will be tangible, practical, genuine enviROI+ reductions, and what % redistribution or redesignation?
How, with expanding populations encroaching or dependent on ever more territory and resources can the growing economy mantra from all governments to support these be satisfied without further increases in consumption and hence pollution vs. in the situation suggested, held and reduced?
There is no such thing as a free lunch. What, honestly, is going to have to give? In terms a worker in a factory making stuff to sell and be consumed can relate to job wise, to the lifestyle-centric mind of a student with an eye on the latest iPhone or LCD TV from John Lewis (non-list) can relate to. For good or ill.
In committing all efforts and funds to avoiding/mitigating the potential consequences of (A)GW, has any thought been given to the possibility that it is (now/already, as claimed by some in high office) unavoidable (whatever the cause) and contingencies made to support best practice coping mechanisms?
Or are all bets on 'man' being the sole cause, and hence all efforts by our race should be committed to reversing our impacts?
In case this proves incorrect, and/or the efforts made prove ineffective/insufficient, what will be the consequences to this country?
I am hoping he might answer some, and the key ones, and not waffle. Or choose a distracting line.
I have tried to be careful to avoid any hint that my concern is on whether PMWNCC is happening as per any 'line' or fact to prevent the inevitable extreme artillery barrages. My interest is in what he and his merry crew have actually considered or, and equally important, not considered around the consequences of a 'warming' planet.
I just had a mate call me up in a rage. He took the now redundant RE:boxes to the bring site as his new green wheelie has arrived to improve things. They wouldn't take it and suggested he pop over the road and pop it in the landfill skip. Somewhere a box is binned and another is ticked or a target in one area is met that is not counted against one lost in another. And a planet weeps another tear.
But I will never stop trying to find tangible, practical, enviROI+ solutions wherever and whenever I can. Always have (wow, was it 5 years ago? And those boxes had years left in them yet). Always will. If I am able.
Monday, November 09, 2009
RE:PAIR - Want tips with that?
Top 10 Clever Fixes for Your Broken Stuff
And if you ever need a place to go to find stuff to fix things with....
And if you ever need a place to go to find stuff to fix things with....
Sunday, November 08, 2009
The SADIM Touch
You'll need to think about it a tad (hint, in every direction)
Just seems some have it, and the rest of us are cursed that they do.
Inspired by some noting a certain person did not wish 'bon voyage' to the UK World Heavyweight boxing (now) champ.
Just seems some have it, and the rest of us are cursed that they do.
Inspired by some noting a certain person did not wish 'bon voyage' to the UK World Heavyweight boxing (now) champ.
Friday, November 06, 2009
We need more good news today
Freiburg lights way to energy savings
We don't say: 'Reduce your mobility.' What we try to do is create better alternatives," explained Dieter Wörner, the city's environment chief.
We don't say: 'Reduce your mobility.' What we try to do is create better alternatives," explained Dieter Wörner, the city's environment chief.
CATEGORY - FOOD WASTE DISPOSAL
I engaged in a wee mission a while ago in complement. To try and get a better structure across the topic from now on:
ARTICLES
Sink your waste
Comparison of Carbon Footprint - bear in mind this is from the site of a company that advocates putting stuff in it's products.
Recycling & Waste World - WRAP’s food waste report comes under fire - I do believe Junkkly eyebrow was cokced a while ago in this regard. Mind you, I also had an issue with some aspects of their critic's products (which also apply to any composter), namely the caution on inhaling fungal spores.
Indy - Waste watchers: Save cash and the environment
Times - NEW - Shanks builds first anaerobic digestion plant to harness potato peel power
INFORMATION
ARTICLES
Sink your waste
Comparison of Carbon Footprint - bear in mind this is from the site of a company that advocates putting stuff in it's products.
Recycling & Waste World - WRAP’s food waste report comes under fire - I do believe Junkkly eyebrow was cokced a while ago in this regard. Mind you, I also had an issue with some aspects of their critic's products (which also apply to any composter), namely the caution on inhaling fungal spores.
Indy - Waste watchers: Save cash and the environment
Times - NEW - Shanks builds first anaerobic digestion plant to harness potato peel power
INFORMATION
GREEN TIP - Make your tumble dryer more energy efficient
From espares
'Course, not having one at all can be even better.
We are managing using a combo of dryer stands in the sun in the spare room and a new 'zone' created over the emmersion heater.
'Course, not having one at all can be even better.
We are managing using a combo of dryer stands in the sun in the spare room and a new 'zone' created over the emmersion heater.
A good share is a joy forvever...
'Thought this might appeal to you'
It did, has and thank you Solarventi:
- a museum constructed out of, and using exhibits of, recycled/reused materials.
See http://www.citymuseum.org/about.html
Having to use a 'related' Label 'til I can figure out how to purge or exceed the Blogger 2k (a lot of labels!) limit
It did, has and thank you Solarventi:
- a museum constructed out of, and using exhibits of, recycled/reused materials.
See http://www.citymuseum.org/about.html
Having to use a 'related' Label 'til I can figure out how to purge or exceed the Blogger 2k (a lot of labels!) limit
Thursday, November 05, 2009
RE:trograde steps
Been a bit distracted of late. Sorry.
Mainly on a major competition entry, though after the last few I am not sure why I bother; where green judges heads are seem seldom the same planet I am operating to save.
The intense nature of this has meant my only 'blog breaks' have been scattered and short, so I have vented more on the twitter page. Worth staying abreast.
However, here I return, and not with good news... at least of others.
When you beaver about town on foot or bike you notice a lot more, and can stop more easily.
And so I have come to mourn the passing of some iconic re:initiatives this week.
First up Spokes, who old me the very bike I use now. A great idea for both planet and local employment.
Then RE:Box, to whom I contributed name and design. Sadly no more.
But there are glimmers of green shoots. 'The Can Do Crew!' is a force to be reckoned with, and rethreads are out and about and collecting textiles still, which new systems can or will not.
Both proudly using the names I coined and logos I created for them.
For a looooong time more, I do hope.
Monday, November 02, 2009
AWARD - Green Web Awards
AWARD
WHEN: Now, until, er, later
WHAT: Green Web Awards
WHAT... MORE?: From the blurb: annual awards for the best green websites, social media and digital activity, run by Nigel’s Eco Store .
In 2008 they asked some of the web’s leading environmental bloggers and social media users [not asked for some reason, guess I'm not 'leading'...yet;)]to name their favourite green sites in twelve categories. We wanted to celebrate the best and worst of the green web.
This year, following some great feedback on our blog, they’ve decided to make the awards a tad more democratic. [Must check out that great feedback that resulted in such a welcome enhancement]
HOW MUCH: FREEEEEEE!
URL: http://www.nigelsecostore.com/green-web-awards/
COMMENTS: Modesty prevents and all that.... but if a kind person or two would feel so disposed to put in a good word. I note we still have leading green judges from many previous awards of note, so this blog has a hope in hell, but the Junkk.com site deserves to get a fair crack
WHEN: Now, until, er, later
WHAT: Green Web Awards
WHAT... MORE?: From the blurb: annual awards for the best green websites, social media and digital activity, run by Nigel’s Eco Store .
In 2008 they asked some of the web’s leading environmental bloggers and social media users [not asked for some reason, guess I'm not 'leading'...yet;)]to name their favourite green sites in twelve categories. We wanted to celebrate the best and worst of the green web.
This year, following some great feedback on our blog, they’ve decided to make the awards a tad more democratic. [Must check out that great feedback that resulted in such a welcome enhancement]
HOW MUCH: FREEEEEEE!
URL: http://www.nigelsecostore.com/green-web-awards/
COMMENTS: Modesty prevents and all that.... but if a kind person or two would feel so disposed to put in a good word. I note we still have leading green judges from many previous awards of note, so this blog has a hope in hell, but the Junkk.com site deserves to get a fair crack
Friday, October 30, 2009
CATEGORY - CARBON CAPTURE
A new one that looks to be topical. As always, share and share alike.
Articles
The Register - Brown gov will make 'big commitment' to carbon capture - Big as in small - Nowt like backing a winner!
Greenbang - Carbon capture as much use a chocolate teapot: Greenpeace - Bless
Guardian - Can technology save the climate?
Indy - UK's climate change plans incoherent, says scientist - Oi, Gordon, I think a tabloid has another plastic bag opp for you to devote your energies to.
Greenbang - Think tank gives roadmap for carbon capture in the UK - So the technology is sound...phew. It's just how it gets specified, used, subsidised, traded and all round abused by the cabal of dodgy pols and venal corporates after a quick target-tick and/or short-term £reebie that are the problem.
So I can see all that changing right away. Not.
Gizmag - Carbon Capture: a bridging technology too far?
Guardian - Wicks: All is lost on global warming without clean coal - Feeling secure, are we?
Times - How carbon capture and storage (CCS) could make coal the fuel of the future - Ah, 'could' it?
Greenbang - Is carbon storage really all good? -
FT - EU split on carbon capture intensifies
Guardian - Live Q&A: George Monbiot on clean coal - While I might query the 'leading green commentator' bit, it's a debate, and may be worth following.
FT - The carbon-capture challenge
FT - NEW - Carbon capture and storage in very, very expensive shock
Information
Articles
The Register - Brown gov will make 'big commitment' to carbon capture - Big as in small - Nowt like backing a winner!
Greenbang - Carbon capture as much use a chocolate teapot: Greenpeace - Bless
Guardian - Can technology save the climate?
Indy - UK's climate change plans incoherent, says scientist - Oi, Gordon, I think a tabloid has another plastic bag opp for you to devote your energies to.
Greenbang - Think tank gives roadmap for carbon capture in the UK - So the technology is sound...phew. It's just how it gets specified, used, subsidised, traded and all round abused by the cabal of dodgy pols and venal corporates after a quick target-tick and/or short-term £reebie that are the problem.
So I can see all that changing right away. Not.
Gizmag - Carbon Capture: a bridging technology too far?
Guardian - Wicks: All is lost on global warming without clean coal - Feeling secure, are we?
Times - How carbon capture and storage (CCS) could make coal the fuel of the future - Ah, 'could' it?
Greenbang - Is carbon storage really all good? -
FT - EU split on carbon capture intensifies
Guardian - Live Q&A: George Monbiot on clean coal - While I might query the 'leading green commentator' bit, it's a debate, and may be worth following.
FT - The carbon-capture challenge
FT - NEW - Carbon capture and storage in very, very expensive shock
Information
A new day, a new website
Waste
I'll share it, despite it still seeming to think Freecycle is the only swap site in town and Direct.gov knowing all about (and kindly promoting if not in the best section) reuse and Junkk.com's role for years. Lord knows how much will be ploughed into 'promoting' this one.
Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs - E&EO
WE NEED TO RETHINK THE THREE R’S – BENN LAUNCHES NEW WASTE CAMPAIGN
We are all being urged to rethink our approach to waste, in a new campaign launched by Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) today.
The new campaign, part of the Government’s Act On CO2 campaign, looks at everything from food waste to furniture recycling and encourages consumers to ‘Remember. Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.’
A new website offering tips and advice to consumers on making better use of the things we all too often put straight in the bin or take to the dump, also launches today at www.direct.gov.uk/waste.
Research published recently by Defra showed that an additional 500,000 tonnes of household waste could be saved from landfill by doing more to reuse it or find another home for it. And if every household in the EU recycled one electrical or electronic item such as a mobile phone or iPod, 73,000 tonnes could be diverted from landfill – the same as 9,500 round the world flights.
Environment Secretary Hilary Benn said:
“I set out recently what the Government will do to help the country on its path to becoming a zero waste nation. Making better use of everything around us will really help us to tackle the impact our waste has on climate change, and save us money too. That’s why our campaign is encouraging everyone to rethink what they might think of as ‘waste’ and ‘recycling’ – we can all do things like put our old sofa on Freecycle rather than taking it to the dump, or recycle our old mobile if we get a new one.”
I'll share it, despite it still seeming to think Freecycle is the only swap site in town and Direct.gov knowing all about (and kindly promoting if not in the best section) reuse and Junkk.com's role for years. Lord knows how much will be ploughed into 'promoting' this one.
Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs - E&EO
WE NEED TO RETHINK THE THREE R’S – BENN LAUNCHES NEW WASTE CAMPAIGN
We are all being urged to rethink our approach to waste, in a new campaign launched by Defra (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) today.
The new campaign, part of the Government’s Act On CO2 campaign, looks at everything from food waste to furniture recycling and encourages consumers to ‘Remember. Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.’
A new website offering tips and advice to consumers on making better use of the things we all too often put straight in the bin or take to the dump, also launches today at www.direct.gov.uk/waste.
Research published recently by Defra showed that an additional 500,000 tonnes of household waste could be saved from landfill by doing more to reuse it or find another home for it. And if every household in the EU recycled one electrical or electronic item such as a mobile phone or iPod, 73,000 tonnes could be diverted from landfill – the same as 9,500 round the world flights.
Environment Secretary Hilary Benn said:
“I set out recently what the Government will do to help the country on its path to becoming a zero waste nation. Making better use of everything around us will really help us to tackle the impact our waste has on climate change, and save us money too. That’s why our campaign is encouraging everyone to rethink what they might think of as ‘waste’ and ‘recycling’ – we can all do things like put our old sofa on Freecycle rather than taking it to the dump, or recycle our old mobile if we get a new one.”
Thursday, October 29, 2009
\:( - RIP?
Waste industry speaks out about WRAP 'super body' plans - UPDATE 2 this
On the one hand I have been an advocate of amortisation to reduce the rampant waste through overlapping quangos. So... cautious welcome.
One the other... the lead is....WRAP???????
And what is it about 'superbodies' that gets my eyebrow cranking (new icon in headline) big time?
These are the guys that demanded my business plan, told us 'reuse was not of interest', and then copied a ton of stuff we had done, were doing, are doing and will do using no public money on driving 'not for profit' board member bonusses up in pretty darn near conflict of interest ways via box-ticking, target-meeting 'awareness' campaigns.
The outfit that figured giving huge amounts to vastly-profitable international companies to help them make more money on their packaging was a good deal.
Enough on the various interest groups surrounding this huge industry speaking out; what about the public and consumers being required to plough millions into all this with near zero say or representation?
On the one hand I have been an advocate of amortisation to reduce the rampant waste through overlapping quangos. So... cautious welcome.
One the other... the lead is....WRAP???????
And what is it about 'superbodies' that gets my eyebrow cranking (new icon in headline) big time?
These are the guys that demanded my business plan, told us 'reuse was not of interest', and then copied a ton of stuff we had done, were doing, are doing and will do using no public money on driving 'not for profit' board member bonusses up in pretty darn near conflict of interest ways via box-ticking, target-meeting 'awareness' campaigns.
The outfit that figured giving huge amounts to vastly-profitable international companies to help them make more money on their packaging was a good deal.
Enough on the various interest groups surrounding this huge industry speaking out; what about the public and consumers being required to plough millions into all this with near zero say or representation?
Can't hurt to revisit
Simple, painless steps cut carbon and save money, a new study shows
And such as here great places to do it.
Not via endless multi-million £ 'awareness' box-ticking campaigns from overlapping quangos with too much of our money for the sense they possess.
And such as here great places to do it.
Not via endless multi-million £ 'awareness' box-ticking campaigns from overlapping quangos with too much of our money for the sense they possess.
POOH CORNER - Whiff-fi
OK, it's not quite 'pooh', but related enough:
The methane makers
And interesting.
Especially, in these recessionary times, how the chart matches our family meat purchase trends, though we have drawn the line at cannibalism. For now.
The methane makers
And interesting.
Especially, in these recessionary times, how the chart matches our family meat purchase trends, though we have drawn the line at cannibalism. For now.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
According to Plan?
Suitably 'inspired', I go off message...
Hey, what's the worst that could happen? They've ignored all my efforts at trying to engage thus far.
Marks & Spencer describes its journey from corporate social responsibility to sustainability
I'd like to think many brands/retailers are committing to environmentally sound initiatives and practices for more than pure bottom line as opposed to more laudable triple bottom line reasons. But the realities are few and far between.
Sadly, from personal experience, I have found too many managers (at least at mid, gatekeeper level) exist solely on what makes a margin. The talk from on high may be there, but the walkers lower down ain't hearing... or, frankly, being encouraged much.
And the retail world especially seems to make the Russian military look like a Woodstock reunion: the climate of fear at every level is palpable, from worrying about what might not make money to wondering if they guy above will get miffed at not having had a good idea.
The odd thing is that it IS possible to make green not just for the planet, but also your consumers AND yourselves.
Just stop thinking like buzz-word marketers and start empathising as human beings with shared values.
Marks & Spencer creates 'virtual patchwork quilt' for Copenhagen Climate Summit drive - Looking for tangibles... finding few. I imagine the presentation of the patch will attract a fair bit of PR come the day, mind.
Hey, what's the worst that could happen? They've ignored all my efforts at trying to engage thus far.
Marks & Spencer describes its journey from corporate social responsibility to sustainability
I'd like to think many brands/retailers are committing to environmentally sound initiatives and practices for more than pure bottom line as opposed to more laudable triple bottom line reasons. But the realities are few and far between.
Sadly, from personal experience, I have found too many managers (at least at mid, gatekeeper level) exist solely on what makes a margin. The talk from on high may be there, but the walkers lower down ain't hearing... or, frankly, being encouraged much.
And the retail world especially seems to make the Russian military look like a Woodstock reunion: the climate of fear at every level is palpable, from worrying about what might not make money to wondering if they guy above will get miffed at not having had a good idea.
The odd thing is that it IS possible to make green not just for the planet, but also your consumers AND yourselves.
Just stop thinking like buzz-word marketers and start empathising as human beings with shared values.
Marks & Spencer creates 'virtual patchwork quilt' for Copenhagen Climate Summit drive - Looking for tangibles... finding few. I imagine the presentation of the patch will attract a fair bit of PR come the day, mind.
Don't just DO it...
Actually... DO do it. At least... as well, if not first.
B&Q chief launches tirade against government Act on CO2 ad
He's bang on. They are only talking to a narrow demographic that a very narrow-minded bunch feel comfortable with. All urban 'Prius person' vs. the vast national majority spread that is 'Fiesta family'.
And it's insulting to figure the latter don't care about their kids' futures or have an interest in the various arguments still being had (despite what this ad claims, so the ASA verdict on the VO text will be 'interesting').
Plus I could suggest a ton better places for £6m to go that would "DO" a lot more good than yet another box-ticking awareness campaign from one of scores of over-lapping climate quangos.
Starting with a boiler scrappage scheme that will keep jobs in the UK AND reduce emissions!
B&Q chief launches tirade against government Act on CO2 ad
He's bang on. They are only talking to a narrow demographic that a very narrow-minded bunch feel comfortable with. All urban 'Prius person' vs. the vast national majority spread that is 'Fiesta family'.
And it's insulting to figure the latter don't care about their kids' futures or have an interest in the various arguments still being had (despite what this ad claims, so the ASA verdict on the VO text will be 'interesting').
Plus I could suggest a ton better places for £6m to go that would "DO" a lot more good than yet another box-ticking awareness campaign from one of scores of over-lapping climate quangos.
Starting with a boiler scrappage scheme that will keep jobs in the UK AND reduce emissions!
Bye bye RE:Box, hello wheelie
A long time ago, in a land, well, right here, I helped with the creation of a kerbside scheme:
The RE:Box
Worked pretty well.
However, we are now at the end of an era (must remember to mark on the site pages).
Not to mention 20,000 blue plastic boxes (seems we get to keep them. Yeah, right. Other than me I can see everyone keeping a bunch of additional dirty, smelly containers. Look out landfill!)
Because we are all getting wheelies.
Or not.
Because, in advance of 'W-day' in November, I got a ton of literature (all of which seemed to say the precise same thing - I guess they want to kick off the paper recycling with a bang) and... a 2kg roll of plastic bags.
So far, so 'Huh?'.
Then I read one of them.
No textiles... no problem (The Can Do Crew and REthreads - two other Junkk-assisted local services are alive, well and serving the community still... until the box tickers descend here too, when their mates see some profit in this no doubt).
But... glass?
As ardent reusers, this is the one category we do recycle a lot, simply because of the volume generated and lack of major reuses we can think of... yet.
Now, it seems this all arises due to a confluence of circumstances.
First up, though we have a big house and grounds, it is 'on the street'. Which apparently means our wheelie would block the pavement. How putting out a bag wouldn't, and RE:Boxes didn't before...?
Then there is the 'elfinsaftee of glass in the bag.
So.... a ton of plastic boxes are being scrapped (I presume) to make way for a ton more plastic boxes most in the town or flats can't use, so we end up with plastic bags that won't accept glass.
This is not making much sense to me at present on any level. I have demanded a wheelie and will have to resolve access to it on collection day.
The only positives (so far) are that they will take (some) plastics and there will not (for now) be a trained sniper across the way should we pop the wrong thing in by accident.
But I do note they don't want them squashed. So a big truck is still moving 95% fresh air?
I am looking further into this. There is the council website. No mention of reuse or Junkk.com I can see. Ta, guys!
And, having called to ask what happens to all this carefully sorted recyclate, and being told it is on the above site (not yet, it seems), there is this fun fellow to trawl: http://www.envirosort.co.uk/
Another blog later, I think.
Going off the rails?
No, nowt to do with trains.
I am just wondering what has got into some sections of our political classes, and their notions of advocacy.
First we have the government just getting more bizarre in its kamikaze scorched earth end game, with such as Presidente for Life Blair and David 'sod this I need a better job than the one I'm supposed to be doing' Miliband vying for who can sell the UK out quicker to score a top EU job.
And then we have Lord Stern on climate duty, getting all fence sitters onside:
Climate chief Lord Stern: give up meat to save the planet
Of course he is right in that going veggie will make more efficient use of available food resources.
It'll make sod all difference to 'the planet'.
So 'we' give up meat (betting an all vegan diet is unlikely in the 1st class flights to Copenhagen and at all the banquets).
This buys us how long before 'we' simply expand to occupy the space and time that buys us?
Then what do 'we' forgo?
Wrong bloke. Wrong time.
And in one fell swoop he has rather tainted any possible good he might have been associated with in the past.
I am just wondering what has got into some sections of our political classes, and their notions of advocacy.
First we have the government just getting more bizarre in its kamikaze scorched earth end game, with such as Presidente for Life Blair and David 'sod this I need a better job than the one I'm supposed to be doing' Miliband vying for who can sell the UK out quicker to score a top EU job.
And then we have Lord Stern on climate duty, getting all fence sitters onside:
Climate chief Lord Stern: give up meat to save the planet
Of course he is right in that going veggie will make more efficient use of available food resources.
It'll make sod all difference to 'the planet'.
So 'we' give up meat (betting an all vegan diet is unlikely in the 1st class flights to Copenhagen and at all the banquets).
This buys us how long before 'we' simply expand to occupy the space and time that buys us?
Then what do 'we' forgo?
Wrong bloke. Wrong time.
And in one fell swoop he has rather tainted any possible good he might have been associated with in the past.
Monday, October 26, 2009
A load of cobblers?
Hey, this is billed as a rubbish site... what do you expect? Shakespeare?
A toe-curling maintenance/repair post from Make it and Mend it worth sharing:
Greener shoes – mending footwear
A toe-curling maintenance/repair post from Make it and Mend it worth sharing:
Greener shoes – mending footwear
IRONY ALERT - Warning... nothing to do with 'green'
One man's exclusive interview is another's ratings score
Col. Gaddafi, eh?
Imagine if they had invited him on Question Time.
Red carpet, I'd guess.
Not like he did, or advocated anything 'serious'.
Funny old world.
At least he was elec... er...
What gets cut down...
...usually takes a while to grow back up.
Rainforest treaty 'fatally flawed'
Which rather goes to my concern at the competence and commitment of those in power currently shouting the odds on 'climate change' (esp. various methods of influencing the possibly man-worsened aspect) and how to 'solve' 'it'.
By coincidence...
SKY - rainforestrescue.sky.com - along with Cool Earth (noting a slight proliferation in diverse efforts) worth considering, especially at 50p in the £.
Rainforest treaty 'fatally flawed'
Which rather goes to my concern at the competence and commitment of those in power currently shouting the odds on 'climate change' (esp. various methods of influencing the possibly man-worsened aspect) and how to 'solve' 'it'.
By coincidence...
SKY - rainforestrescue.sky.com - along with Cool Earth (noting a slight proliferation in diverse efforts) worth considering, especially at 50p in the £.
Friday, October 23, 2009
CATEGORY - AUTO
Advice
Indy - How to buy a greener car
Motortorque.com - The sub-100 Club
Gaurdian - How to drive a bargain
Articles
Indy - Why is the world so slow to produce environmentally-friendly cars? - Interesting summary
Times - Beat the Brown car tax swipe - Well, until the rules change again, at least
Indy - The latest affordable automobiles are as eco-friendly as hi-tech hybrids
Driving
drive55.org - US-based tips
Guardian - Life in the green lane
uk-roadsafety.co.uk -
EPA - Fuel economy
Biofuels
Ecologist - NEW - Biofuels rather than electric cars to meet renewables target - Paging Messrs Mandleson, Milibands, etc
Electric
The Register - SF's green mayor dreams of electric car heaven - With the comments an interesting breakdown of pros and cons
trendhunter - 32 Electric Cars
sahkoautot.fi - early days, but looks fun. Could answer some of my concerns on 'new' models and testbeds that are none too practical.
Times - Brown plugs into future of electric cars - Where does 'government money' come from?
BBC - Electric dreams: Taking to the road in a G-Wiz - '...to see just how easy it is to join the green revolution... because it has no exhaust emissions... to wean us off our addiction to expensive and increasingly scarce fossil fuels and to save the planet.. for this clean[ER] and cheap form of motoring'. It may be bett[ER], but I would dearly love just one of our national broadcaster's reporting elite and editorial agenda setters to get their heads around the fact that, unless you go solar or nuke to generate 'leccy, the polluting/emitting pipe is simply in another place. This seems to have passed by the other great brain on the case, our Dear Leader, too.
Guardian - What is going to power our cars?
Times - Tesla Roadster - More for the 'discussions' in reply
BBC Ethical Man - The car is dead... long live the car - Worth reading for some of the comments. Not sure most journalists are up to the task of sharing the issues sensibly.
Indy - Boris jumps on board France's 'hire an electric car' scheme
- The great environmental attraction of the scheme is that electric cars produce no CO2 emissions -
Until we have sensible-enviROI methods of 'leccy generation (and even then nukes or renewables still produce some Co2 from construction through operation to disposal).... oh yes they do! The exhaust pipe is, for now, simply elsewhere.
There are many merits, especially in crowed urban settings, for such options, but please don't trot out tripe.
ps: Didn't a host of the French bikes get nicked? At least in this case the ID of borrower will be more thoroughly checked one hopes, but the opportunities for waste through attrition still seem high.
Indy - Vindication!!!! (the system wouldn't 'accept' my comment yesterday) - But what will power Boris's electric cars? - I merely think 'better' would be a more accurate first stance, and even this needs proving.
Telegraph - How to drive fast, have a good time - and still save the planet - [Oddly, my comment was not one of those published.]
...assuming not making a new car and/or not running one are out as options, one presumes.
'It has no exhaust pipe.'
'...this car was producing no more noxious vapours than a dandelion in an alpine meadow.'
Please be more careful. You even allude to it yourself, but by failing to be clear others have had to do so, and raise the spectre of, how to say, 'optimistic' reporting requiring certain facts to be checked before one rushes to commit to the purchase of a brand new car in the cause of green (look up some rather poor-enviROI notions being promoted under the term 'scrappage'. I did. And it seems that instead of buying an '02 LPG Volvo the brainwave is that I should have waited get funded to buy a 6 litre Jag to help Mr. Tata).
There is much merit in much of what you share... BUT...
There IS an exhaust pipe. It is just in another location.
And from it, in the main, there is just as much noxious gunk going skywards here in the UK. Just... not where your voters are, or indeed anywhere close to where many other luvvie 'reporters' are within hailing distance of a tube train. Hence more BBC moppets than you can shake a taxi-fare at gurgling away at the rear-end of a G-Wiz.
So before we have 'my other car is a Prius' and vice versa on the Tesla sticker-printing, whilst ignoring the Aston and the Range Rover in the 4-car garage, let's get the full story please.
Especially the bits about the subsidies and lobbyist-fodder and PR-spin than flies about to so easily turn a young blonde's head at the expense of what's actually good for my kids' futures.
ps: Any chance of helping me get my V40 bi-fuel on the TfL congestion charging list? It doesn't count vs. bigger and more polluting cars 'cos 'computer says no'. Nothing like a good box tick, or not, eh?
Low Tech - Who killed the electric grid? - Worthy read
The Register - Tata to release UK's first 'serious' electric car - Worth it for the comments
Times - Electric Car survey - hey, when you're getting A £5K bung from other taxpayers...
Guardian - UK powers up plans for world's largest electric car trial - ignoring the enviROI of the power source, if you do see merit in electric, at least there's a better choice.
Indy - Batteries included: Are eco-friendly cars any good? - Looks like it's a Tesla then. And no mention of enviROI.
Indy - Is Britain going to be at the centre of the 'green car' revolution? - Well, if we are going to be gadding about in electric cars this is good news. I just hope they have the source of energy side sussed by then. Electric is only green if it is produced and delivered in a green way. And the battery tech has a long way to go in all fronts.
High mileage
Sharkride - aptera
EPA - Gas Saving and Emission Reduction Devices Evaluation - Yes it is, obviously, US-centric. But we do now have a global readership and I am aware some of what I include is often irrelevant to those in other parts. Call it sharing the love. In any case, some of these products may make it here, plus the site is worth a gander anyway.
Hydrogen
BBC - Hydrogen refuel station unveiled
Guardian - It drives well, but are hydrogen cars the future?
It may just be the name, but why does it seem to be a 4x4?
I have also been intrigued as to why, all other arguments aside, most other H2 outings seem to involve honking great bits of tin still.
Arnie's Hummer. Sir Rosie's 7-Series.
I guess it's part test-beds and part 'awareness' (like we need any more), but when are we going to get something like a normal 2/4 seat family saloon like a Fiesta so the plebs and those who only need it for work and or shopping can get enthused. Electrics, too. I'm afraid a G-Wiz or Tesla won't match my needs. At least hybrids are trying.
But that enviROI of what gets to turn the wheels is a biggie on the planet-saving front for a while, plus whatever the Chancellor decides to rake in trying to balance tax income with looking green that week.
For now I am trying to figure out how to get an R-reg Golf with 40k on the clock back on the road affordably having killed the engine when the water pump blew on the M4. Just getting it to safety was all it took to do the nasty,
At the 'mo I a staring at around £3k for a recon combo'd with an LPG conversion.
Might still be worth it 'til the next generation newbies are common and I can get a 2nd hander.
The Register - EU parliament says yes to hydrogen cars - Dontcha just love having our kids' eco-futures decided by guys driven round in 7-litre cars? Next thing you'll be telling me is Arnie uses a Hummer.
Times - Hydrogen future a long way off
Telegraph - NEW - Mazda RX-8H review - And it looks nice, too.
LPG
Meet Veronique - Junkk has bought an LPG car. This will track our journey.
Guardian - Driving lessons
eequality campaign - hat tip Adam Vaughan
Hybrids
thehybriddebate.com
Times - PRIUS: THE TRUTH - I should really get the original that inspired this letter, but it does show that the whole data/stats issue is very much open for debate. You might also notice a mention of a "Peter Martin"... another doppleganger!
Guardian - Is the Chevy Volt just hype? - any one say enviROI?
Scrapping
Guardian - Government may offer cash-back to owners who scrap old cars - Well, there's that 'may' word again. Interesting, but I hope they have worked out the enviROI between manufacture and operation.
Sites
eta -
vcacarfueldata.org.uk - check your car's CO2 rating... if you dare!
volkswagen - their vision of the future
Indy - How to buy a greener car
Motortorque.com - The sub-100 Club
Gaurdian - How to drive a bargain
Articles
Indy - Why is the world so slow to produce environmentally-friendly cars? - Interesting summary
Times - Beat the Brown car tax swipe - Well, until the rules change again, at least
Indy - The latest affordable automobiles are as eco-friendly as hi-tech hybrids
Driving
drive55.org - US-based tips
Guardian - Life in the green lane
uk-roadsafety.co.uk -
EPA - Fuel economy
Biofuels
Ecologist - NEW - Biofuels rather than electric cars to meet renewables target - Paging Messrs Mandleson, Milibands, etc
Electric
The Register - SF's green mayor dreams of electric car heaven - With the comments an interesting breakdown of pros and cons
trendhunter - 32 Electric Cars
sahkoautot.fi - early days, but looks fun. Could answer some of my concerns on 'new' models and testbeds that are none too practical.
Times - Brown plugs into future of electric cars - Where does 'government money' come from?
BBC - Electric dreams: Taking to the road in a G-Wiz - '...to see just how easy it is to join the green revolution... because it has no exhaust emissions... to wean us off our addiction to expensive and increasingly scarce fossil fuels and to save the planet.. for this clean[ER] and cheap form of motoring'. It may be bett[ER], but I would dearly love just one of our national broadcaster's reporting elite and editorial agenda setters to get their heads around the fact that, unless you go solar or nuke to generate 'leccy, the polluting/emitting pipe is simply in another place. This seems to have passed by the other great brain on the case, our Dear Leader, too.
Guardian - What is going to power our cars?
Times - Tesla Roadster - More for the 'discussions' in reply
BBC Ethical Man - The car is dead... long live the car - Worth reading for some of the comments. Not sure most journalists are up to the task of sharing the issues sensibly.
Indy - Boris jumps on board France's 'hire an electric car' scheme
- The great environmental attraction of the scheme is that electric cars produce no CO2 emissions -
Until we have sensible-enviROI methods of 'leccy generation (and even then nukes or renewables still produce some Co2 from construction through operation to disposal).... oh yes they do! The exhaust pipe is, for now, simply elsewhere.
There are many merits, especially in crowed urban settings, for such options, but please don't trot out tripe.
ps: Didn't a host of the French bikes get nicked? At least in this case the ID of borrower will be more thoroughly checked one hopes, but the opportunities for waste through attrition still seem high.
Indy - Vindication!!!! (the system wouldn't 'accept' my comment yesterday) - But what will power Boris's electric cars? - I merely think 'better' would be a more accurate first stance, and even this needs proving.
Telegraph - How to drive fast, have a good time - and still save the planet - [Oddly, my comment was not one of those published.]
...assuming not making a new car and/or not running one are out as options, one presumes.
'It has no exhaust pipe.'
'...this car was producing no more noxious vapours than a dandelion in an alpine meadow.'
Please be more careful. You even allude to it yourself, but by failing to be clear others have had to do so, and raise the spectre of, how to say, 'optimistic' reporting requiring certain facts to be checked before one rushes to commit to the purchase of a brand new car in the cause of green (look up some rather poor-enviROI notions being promoted under the term 'scrappage'. I did. And it seems that instead of buying an '02 LPG Volvo the brainwave is that I should have waited get funded to buy a 6 litre Jag to help Mr. Tata).
There is much merit in much of what you share... BUT...
There IS an exhaust pipe. It is just in another location.
And from it, in the main, there is just as much noxious gunk going skywards here in the UK. Just... not where your voters are, or indeed anywhere close to where many other luvvie 'reporters' are within hailing distance of a tube train. Hence more BBC moppets than you can shake a taxi-fare at gurgling away at the rear-end of a G-Wiz.
So before we have 'my other car is a Prius' and vice versa on the Tesla sticker-printing, whilst ignoring the Aston and the Range Rover in the 4-car garage, let's get the full story please.
Especially the bits about the subsidies and lobbyist-fodder and PR-spin than flies about to so easily turn a young blonde's head at the expense of what's actually good for my kids' futures.
ps: Any chance of helping me get my V40 bi-fuel on the TfL congestion charging list? It doesn't count vs. bigger and more polluting cars 'cos 'computer says no'. Nothing like a good box tick, or not, eh?
Low Tech - Who killed the electric grid? - Worthy read
The Register - Tata to release UK's first 'serious' electric car - Worth it for the comments
Times - Electric Car survey - hey, when you're getting A £5K bung from other taxpayers...
Guardian - UK powers up plans for world's largest electric car trial - ignoring the enviROI of the power source, if you do see merit in electric, at least there's a better choice.
Indy - Batteries included: Are eco-friendly cars any good? - Looks like it's a Tesla then. And no mention of enviROI.
Indy - Is Britain going to be at the centre of the 'green car' revolution? - Well, if we are going to be gadding about in electric cars this is good news. I just hope they have the source of energy side sussed by then. Electric is only green if it is produced and delivered in a green way. And the battery tech has a long way to go in all fronts.
High mileage
Sharkride - aptera
EPA - Gas Saving and Emission Reduction Devices Evaluation - Yes it is, obviously, US-centric. But we do now have a global readership and I am aware some of what I include is often irrelevant to those in other parts. Call it sharing the love. In any case, some of these products may make it here, plus the site is worth a gander anyway.
Hydrogen
BBC - Hydrogen refuel station unveiled
Guardian - It drives well, but are hydrogen cars the future?
It may just be the name, but why does it seem to be a 4x4?
I have also been intrigued as to why, all other arguments aside, most other H2 outings seem to involve honking great bits of tin still.
Arnie's Hummer. Sir Rosie's 7-Series.
I guess it's part test-beds and part 'awareness' (like we need any more), but when are we going to get something like a normal 2/4 seat family saloon like a Fiesta so the plebs and those who only need it for work and or shopping can get enthused. Electrics, too. I'm afraid a G-Wiz or Tesla won't match my needs. At least hybrids are trying.
But that enviROI of what gets to turn the wheels is a biggie on the planet-saving front for a while, plus whatever the Chancellor decides to rake in trying to balance tax income with looking green that week.
For now I am trying to figure out how to get an R-reg Golf with 40k on the clock back on the road affordably having killed the engine when the water pump blew on the M4. Just getting it to safety was all it took to do the nasty,
At the 'mo I a staring at around £3k for a recon combo'd with an LPG conversion.
Might still be worth it 'til the next generation newbies are common and I can get a 2nd hander.
The Register - EU parliament says yes to hydrogen cars - Dontcha just love having our kids' eco-futures decided by guys driven round in 7-litre cars? Next thing you'll be telling me is Arnie uses a Hummer.
Times - Hydrogen future a long way off
Telegraph - NEW - Mazda RX-8H review - And it looks nice, too.
LPG
Meet Veronique - Junkk has bought an LPG car. This will track our journey.
Guardian - Driving lessons
eequality campaign - hat tip Adam Vaughan
Hybrids
thehybriddebate.com
Times - PRIUS: THE TRUTH - I should really get the original that inspired this letter, but it does show that the whole data/stats issue is very much open for debate. You might also notice a mention of a "Peter Martin"... another doppleganger!
Guardian - Is the Chevy Volt just hype? - any one say enviROI?
Scrapping
Guardian - Government may offer cash-back to owners who scrap old cars - Well, there's that 'may' word again. Interesting, but I hope they have worked out the enviROI between manufacture and operation.
Sites
eta -
vcacarfueldata.org.uk - check your car's CO2 rating... if you dare!
volkswagen - their vision of the future
Lord, hear our share
I guess how many votes might be in it.
Eh, Peter? Whadyareckon?
Scrap old gas appliances says the Corgi trust
Recognising that the advocacy group might have a vested interest, it makes a heck of a lot more sense to me than paying a person £2k to by a new Beemer motor car.
IMHO.
Addendum:
And not just me.
This from the ever well-informed and cutting-edge Dave of Solarventi:
http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/boilerscrappage/
Addendum 2:
Edie - The minister tasked with battling climate change has backed calls for the government to create a boiler scrappage scheme. - Maybe instead/in favour of car schemes and/or £6m 'awareness' campaigns in danger of being.. er.. scrapped due to falling foul of objectivity rules?
Addendum 3: http://reheatbritain.org.uk/help - with that petition link if you find merit:)
After all the negativity of the recent 'climate awareness' nonsense, we might point our talking heads in more productive directions for their money, emissions-wise?
Eh, Peter? Whadyareckon?
Scrap old gas appliances says the Corgi trust
Recognising that the advocacy group might have a vested interest, it makes a heck of a lot more sense to me than paying a person £2k to by a new Beemer motor car.
IMHO.
Addendum:
And not just me.
This from the ever well-informed and cutting-edge Dave of Solarventi:
http://petitions.number10.gov.uk/boilerscrappage/
Addendum 2:
Edie - The minister tasked with battling climate change has backed calls for the government to create a boiler scrappage scheme. - Maybe instead/in favour of car schemes and/or £6m 'awareness' campaigns in danger of being.. er.. scrapped due to falling foul of objectivity rules?
Addendum 3: http://reheatbritain.org.uk/help - with that petition link if you find merit:)
After all the negativity of the recent 'climate awareness' nonsense, we might point our talking heads in more productive directions for their money, emissions-wise?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)