According to this from YahooNews, Britain comes pretty close to the bottom of the table when compared to other countries in terms of per capita CO2 emissions.
Our per capita emissions were more than double the worldwide average in 2004; worse still, even though many of us point the finger across the water at their apparent profligate use of energy, we even finish behind the United States!
Surely its time for someone in power to take the bull by the horns and do something to sort things out?
Friday, October 05, 2007
I'm virtually ecstatic!
I have been meaning to write about my feelings (hey, it's Friday) on the subject of e-publication for a while, and now I have had the perfect prompt *(see below).
PRW is an excellent resource for folks like me (however in it's full monty title of Plastics and Rubber Weekly, a majority of Junkk.com readers may pass). It not only is an easy read, but very topical. And I get pots of good leads. I've even been known to write in.
And, as you'll gather, on top of a nifty way of making a silk purse from a sow's ear they have come up with a cunning marketing wheeze: an e-version.
I already get several. And some I pay for. In a few cases quite a lot. The Ecologist is one. Trouble is, having got to my annual renewal reminder, I have realised I have never read it... online at least. On a few occasions I have even bought a copy at the newsstand - on top.
It may just be me, but I can't get into them. I think part of it is that when I work 12 hrs a day in front of a screen anyway, adding to that eye and RSI-strain a second further with my background reading is not an appealing prospect. Because I have to remain rooted here to do it.
No deckchair in the sun. No quick few pages in the small room (excuse the image that may have created). No catch up in the train (I don't do power-exec lappy space hogging).
I know it's not perhaps very eco to admit it, but it just doesn't appeal in comparison to having a page that I can fold, tear or highlighter-pen... and then stuff in my pocket... to hand. Sorry.
So I'll look forward to my copy in the mail (while the GPO are still in business - at which point I may have no choice, and trees may breathe CO2 easier). But meantime this is a nice complement.
*Unfortunately, the postal strike is likely to delay the delivery of your copy of PRW magazine this week.
However, you can view the latest edition right now by clicking here.
The full issue is available on-line.
The digital edition is exactly the same as the printed issue, which will reach readers next week when the strike ends.
PRW is an excellent resource for folks like me (however in it's full monty title of Plastics and Rubber Weekly, a majority of Junkk.com readers may pass). It not only is an easy read, but very topical. And I get pots of good leads. I've even been known to write in.
And, as you'll gather, on top of a nifty way of making a silk purse from a sow's ear they have come up with a cunning marketing wheeze: an e-version.
I already get several. And some I pay for. In a few cases quite a lot. The Ecologist is one. Trouble is, having got to my annual renewal reminder, I have realised I have never read it... online at least. On a few occasions I have even bought a copy at the newsstand - on top.
It may just be me, but I can't get into them. I think part of it is that when I work 12 hrs a day in front of a screen anyway, adding to that eye and RSI-strain a second further with my background reading is not an appealing prospect. Because I have to remain rooted here to do it.
No deckchair in the sun. No quick few pages in the small room (excuse the image that may have created). No catch up in the train (I don't do power-exec lappy space hogging).
I know it's not perhaps very eco to admit it, but it just doesn't appeal in comparison to having a page that I can fold, tear or highlighter-pen... and then stuff in my pocket... to hand. Sorry.
So I'll look forward to my copy in the mail (while the GPO are still in business - at which point I may have no choice, and trees may breathe CO2 easier). But meantime this is a nice complement.
*Unfortunately, the postal strike is likely to delay the delivery of your copy of PRW magazine this week.
However, you can view the latest edition right now by clicking here.
The full issue is available on-line.
The digital edition is exactly the same as the printed issue, which will reach readers next week when the strike ends.
Thursday, October 04, 2007
In the dark on green lighting
I am signed up to a doo-dad that means I get sent HMG press releases. And very useful they can be.
And because my 'patch' covers the UK, I have signed up to all, so often a few that can get duplicated according to regions that enjoy the same story.
So it was with interest in noted the following, which covered more than one area: Multi million PFI upgrade for Sheffield's [and others] streetlights
Sheffield's streets are set to benefit from £79.3million in Private Finance Initiative investment, Transport Minister Rosie Winterton announced today.
The funding will allow Sheffield City Council to secure a private sector partner to upgrade 59,000 of Sheffield's streetlights over the next 25 years.
Rosie Winterton said:"Experience shows that better streetlighting helps improve road safety, as well as reducing crime and the fear of crime. I am very pleased that Sheffield is using this PFI arrangement to deliver real benefits to motorists and pedestrians alike. "
Government support of PFI credits for local authorities has been endorsed by the interdepartmental Project Review Group (PRG). A full list of the schemes approved by PRG can be found on the website of the Department for Communities and Local Government.
Now this is all very woo-pee-doo. Why am I blogging it?
Well, there's another aspect to lighting that usually doesn't get a look-in, and that's the eco-aspects. Now it may well be that it is in there somewhere (time precludes), but I can't help but feel that if it was they'd be crowing about it.
Which means there is a slim chance that there is a lot of light... but also hot air... being given off here.
And because my 'patch' covers the UK, I have signed up to all, so often a few that can get duplicated according to regions that enjoy the same story.
So it was with interest in noted the following, which covered more than one area: Multi million PFI upgrade for Sheffield's [and others] streetlights
Sheffield's streets are set to benefit from £79.3million in Private Finance Initiative investment, Transport Minister Rosie Winterton announced today.
The funding will allow Sheffield City Council to secure a private sector partner to upgrade 59,000 of Sheffield's streetlights over the next 25 years.
Rosie Winterton said:"Experience shows that better streetlighting helps improve road safety, as well as reducing crime and the fear of crime. I am very pleased that Sheffield is using this PFI arrangement to deliver real benefits to motorists and pedestrians alike. "
Government support of PFI credits for local authorities has been endorsed by the interdepartmental Project Review Group (PRG). A full list of the schemes approved by PRG can be found on the website of the Department for Communities and Local Government.
Now this is all very woo-pee-doo. Why am I blogging it?
Well, there's another aspect to lighting that usually doesn't get a look-in, and that's the eco-aspects. Now it may well be that it is in there somewhere (time precludes), but I can't help but feel that if it was they'd be crowing about it.
Which means there is a slim chance that there is a lot of light... but also hot air... being given off here.
And I still have all my teeth!
Junkk.com costs a lot of money. And time. So only today I was at a networking bash trying to drum up some work for the other thing I do - copywriting - to pay a few bills.
I am therefore not encouraged by this: THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM IN ADVERTISING
I print it all here as there are some key bits I need to highlight:
Don't look away. I'm not covered with boils or zits. I am not unwashed or uneducated. I don't shout, play my mobile phone loudly, or leak spittle onto my chin. I don't put my feet onto the seat in front of me. I don't rabbit on about Iraq, the common market or Cherie Blair's mouth.
(Perhaps I should?) I am not the ugly man on the Victoria train begging for money, who always gets off at Brixton.
It's just that I'm old. No, please don't look away.
It's a cardinal sin in advertising- especially in London. Everybody knows about it, and nobody does anything about it. I've been to all the headhunters, and as soon as they see me, they have said, one after another, "it's ageism, I'm sorry, it's London. I can't do anything about it. It's just the way it is." Is there anywhere a copywriter in their 40's? Their 50's? What about an art director in their late 50's? With awards, too?
Talking about headhunters? Yes 39 of them - that takes in pretty much everyone, doesn't it? I've yet to hear from any of them. Are they useless or plain *****ing useless, or are they just following orders? And I still apply for stuff all over the world on the net, but as you know, of a 100, only two ever bother to reply, months later, to say that job has been cancelled.
The law supposedly banning ageism came into force in 2006.There was even an ad campaign by BBH. Did anybody register a slightest difference? No.
Another Labour whitewash. There are agencies with bean bags, that resemble kindergartens. Specially geared to the young, obviously. It's deliberately difficult for anyone over 30 to get up from those. Although I've stopped putting my date of birth on the CV, it doesn't take a genius to work out your age.
What was my biggest sin? I went abroad. In that time, the swallowing up of agencies happened. Everyone was bought up, or wanted to be bought up, and they still do. Everyone I ever worked with, is and has been, out of work for decades. Talented people. Big shots. People who were my creative directors, with awards and fancy cars. They're existing on their spouses' salaries- women always manage to get work somewhere, it seems. That's of those I've managed to trace. The rest have disappeared. They're probably running antique shops, dog obedience academies, accordion schools or have become driving instructors.
The biggest insult? Today I got a mailer from Sun Life- there's an irony- about a funeral plan
RE: THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM IN ADVERTISING
by: BR team
Unfortunately, the facts support Beverly’s experience. According to the IPA census report published in January, the mean age of the 17,367 people working in creative and media agencies is 33.4, with 47.5% of the permanent workforce aged 30 or under. Only 13.2% are aged 31-40 and only 4.6% are aged 51-60 (or 795 people in the whole industry. And for that fast growing UK age demographic of 60+? Only 94 people or 0.5% work in advertising.
So I wrote in:
I hear you (amazingly, without the need for a hearing aid, too).
It's odd, isn't it? All those committees and talking heads spouting off about legalisation and all, but when push comes to shove there's an awful lot that needn't happen between CV and interview post sound-bite. But a equal-opp box is still ticked each second, I'm sure.
Me....? I was thinking of knocking at least a decade off (as my kids are not even teenagers yet), investing in some Grecian 2000 and lying through my teeth to get at least to a point in a personal mano-a-munchkin exchange in which 'their' overt ageism will be worse than 'my' fibbing on a form. Who dares, wins... compo! I really don't understand what the problem is in their heads. As a a twenty-something writer my loyalty was about as reliable as my attention span and I'd jump for a tenner more, or less if there was a chance at tee-vee. What do they think we mature types are going to do - croak pulling an all-nighter or leave within a year?
Or maybe I'll just work virtually, as really it what you can do that matters, not who you are. The porty, after all... is all, right? Or, from what you say, perhaps not.
What was that movie about the McCarthy era when those with talent and experience had to hire 'acceptable' faces to 'be' them just to get work: The Front?
I'm thinking it might be a wheeze to create a virtual agency of hip young things who don't need to be paid so much on what they can do as how they look, all 'fed' by the real brains who don't fit the image but can still crank out great work (that also works for clients' bottom lines every bit as much as Ivy-envy-generating awards) from the comfort of home.
Make a heck of a reality TV show... if any chrome-dome, Specsavers-sporting yoof types in broadcasting are up for a real idea with some legs:)
Failing which, well, looking on the bright side, my car insurance is getting cheaper!
Sorry, Junkk-regulars, that this is not too much on eco-mode, but I needed to vent a bit on the state of how things get run, and it does extend to government and beyond, so it could well extend to how this planet is gettingmis-managed by hype over experience at a stretch.
ADDENDUM
The incendiary tax?
In the 'fight back', I have noticed the well-trained..er.. briefed cabinet clones and supporting sympathetic/sycophantic media are spinning this as applicable to a very small number of folk and dependents who don't deserve 'it'.
I'll have to leave the reality of that to the lies, damn lies and political number crunchers to fight over.
All I know is that when my Mum hit 75 she could no longer look after herself. So we sold her big house and popped her in a small one next to ours so I could keep an eye on her. Ten years on the system still seems to be working out OK but we're hitting end point soon I fear.
At no point has she been a real burden on 'society' as the family has looked after her, and her own funds have kept her comfortable and helped us in doing so too.
Thing is, at 50, and having worked from home for a decade, with my old CV, any attempt to hit the workforce as a consequence of various downturns, combined with the farce that is the equal opportunity legislation on any practical application (ask anyone over 40 - who admits to it - how a CV gets treated), means I am looking at a very long creek ahead and a very short paddle.
What's left of Mum's legacy would go a long way to mitigating that and help me feel a bit better about where my future will be placed without being a burden on the kids or society either.
So to all those well paid and golden pensioned Ministers and media luvvies who can't see how this might play well with those who do work hard and try and keep things in the family, I have a very short phrase for you: at least I still have my vote.
I am therefore not encouraged by this: THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM IN ADVERTISING
I print it all here as there are some key bits I need to highlight:
Don't look away. I'm not covered with boils or zits. I am not unwashed or uneducated. I don't shout, play my mobile phone loudly, or leak spittle onto my chin. I don't put my feet onto the seat in front of me. I don't rabbit on about Iraq, the common market or Cherie Blair's mouth.
(Perhaps I should?) I am not the ugly man on the Victoria train begging for money, who always gets off at Brixton.
It's just that I'm old. No, please don't look away.
It's a cardinal sin in advertising- especially in London. Everybody knows about it, and nobody does anything about it. I've been to all the headhunters, and as soon as they see me, they have said, one after another, "it's ageism, I'm sorry, it's London. I can't do anything about it. It's just the way it is." Is there anywhere a copywriter in their 40's? Their 50's? What about an art director in their late 50's? With awards, too?
Talking about headhunters? Yes 39 of them - that takes in pretty much everyone, doesn't it? I've yet to hear from any of them. Are they useless or plain *****ing useless, or are they just following orders? And I still apply for stuff all over the world on the net, but as you know, of a 100, only two ever bother to reply, months later, to say that job has been cancelled.
The law supposedly banning ageism came into force in 2006.There was even an ad campaign by BBH. Did anybody register a slightest difference? No.
Another Labour whitewash. There are agencies with bean bags, that resemble kindergartens. Specially geared to the young, obviously. It's deliberately difficult for anyone over 30 to get up from those. Although I've stopped putting my date of birth on the CV, it doesn't take a genius to work out your age.
What was my biggest sin? I went abroad. In that time, the swallowing up of agencies happened. Everyone was bought up, or wanted to be bought up, and they still do. Everyone I ever worked with, is and has been, out of work for decades. Talented people. Big shots. People who were my creative directors, with awards and fancy cars. They're existing on their spouses' salaries- women always manage to get work somewhere, it seems. That's of those I've managed to trace. The rest have disappeared. They're probably running antique shops, dog obedience academies, accordion schools or have become driving instructors.
The biggest insult? Today I got a mailer from Sun Life- there's an irony- about a funeral plan
RE: THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM IN ADVERTISING
by: BR team
Unfortunately, the facts support Beverly’s experience. According to the IPA census report published in January, the mean age of the 17,367 people working in creative and media agencies is 33.4, with 47.5% of the permanent workforce aged 30 or under. Only 13.2% are aged 31-40 and only 4.6% are aged 51-60 (or 795 people in the whole industry. And for that fast growing UK age demographic of 60+? Only 94 people or 0.5% work in advertising.
So I wrote in:
I hear you (amazingly, without the need for a hearing aid, too).
It's odd, isn't it? All those committees and talking heads spouting off about legalisation and all, but when push comes to shove there's an awful lot that needn't happen between CV and interview post sound-bite. But a equal-opp box is still ticked each second, I'm sure.
Me....? I was thinking of knocking at least a decade off (as my kids are not even teenagers yet), investing in some Grecian 2000 and lying through my teeth to get at least to a point in a personal mano-a-munchkin exchange in which 'their' overt ageism will be worse than 'my' fibbing on a form. Who dares, wins... compo! I really don't understand what the problem is in their heads. As a a twenty-something writer my loyalty was about as reliable as my attention span and I'd jump for a tenner more, or less if there was a chance at tee-vee. What do they think we mature types are going to do - croak pulling an all-nighter or leave within a year?
Or maybe I'll just work virtually, as really it what you can do that matters, not who you are. The porty, after all... is all, right? Or, from what you say, perhaps not.
What was that movie about the McCarthy era when those with talent and experience had to hire 'acceptable' faces to 'be' them just to get work: The Front?
I'm thinking it might be a wheeze to create a virtual agency of hip young things who don't need to be paid so much on what they can do as how they look, all 'fed' by the real brains who don't fit the image but can still crank out great work (that also works for clients' bottom lines every bit as much as Ivy-envy-generating awards) from the comfort of home.
Make a heck of a reality TV show... if any chrome-dome, Specsavers-sporting yoof types in broadcasting are up for a real idea with some legs:)
Failing which, well, looking on the bright side, my car insurance is getting cheaper!
Sorry, Junkk-regulars, that this is not too much on eco-mode, but I needed to vent a bit on the state of how things get run, and it does extend to government and beyond, so it could well extend to how this planet is gettingmis-managed by hype over experience at a stretch.
ADDENDUM
The incendiary tax?
In the 'fight back', I have noticed the well-trained..er.. briefed cabinet clones and supporting sympathetic/sycophantic media are spinning this as applicable to a very small number of folk and dependents who don't deserve 'it'.
I'll have to leave the reality of that to the lies, damn lies and political number crunchers to fight over.
All I know is that when my Mum hit 75 she could no longer look after herself. So we sold her big house and popped her in a small one next to ours so I could keep an eye on her. Ten years on the system still seems to be working out OK but we're hitting end point soon I fear.
At no point has she been a real burden on 'society' as the family has looked after her, and her own funds have kept her comfortable and helped us in doing so too.
Thing is, at 50, and having worked from home for a decade, with my old CV, any attempt to hit the workforce as a consequence of various downturns, combined with the farce that is the equal opportunity legislation on any practical application (ask anyone over 40 - who admits to it - how a CV gets treated), means I am looking at a very long creek ahead and a very short paddle.
What's left of Mum's legacy would go a long way to mitigating that and help me feel a bit better about where my future will be placed without being a burden on the kids or society either.
So to all those well paid and golden pensioned Ministers and media luvvies who can't see how this might play well with those who do work hard and try and keep things in the family, I have a very short phrase for you: at least I still have my vote.
COMPETITION - Ben & Jerry's Climate Change College
WHEN: October 30
WHAT: Ben & Jerry's Climate Change College
WHAT... MORE?: If you are 18-30 with an idea to lick global warming, then join us on an expedition to the Arctic to study the effects of climate change on our planet
HOW MUCH: Free!
URL: http://www.climatechangecollege.org/home.php
COMMENTS: Not too sure about clips I saw. Looks less than constructive. And more like a party in the Arctic. But as I am ineligible it's academic (geddit?).
What go me here was a thing on a social enterprise site that said 'The Climate Change College consists of a nine month business mentoring programme and a £5000 grant for each successful candidate to launch an entrepreneurial project to tackle climate change.' If you can find it... good luck!
I've written to them:
A little intrigued by the website - have you watched it?
I was not to clear about how the money is dispersed.
But also noted the first project seemed to be vandalising 4x4s.
The second seemed to be saying saving the planet requires travelling (er, how?) to the icy wastes to have parties.
Not against fun (noting it is a very ageist effort as well - why 30 as a cut off?), but if this is what is being promoted, as I can't honestly endorse it much.
ADDENDUM:
I have had a very thorough reply, thanks to the press office:
I checked out the website before putting it in the newsletter and feel confident that it has a responsible attitude. The students do go to the Arctic but their travel is offset through a carbon offsetting scheme and they go to learn the effects of climate change firsthand to be successful ambassadors.
As for the funding, I think this par covers it roughly:
The College consists of a 9 month business mentoring programme (worth €21,000 per student) and a €7,000 monetary grant to launch a unique project. The programme is largely virtual with a 1-1 mentor, except for a 3 day workshop in Brussels in February and a two week scientific field trip to the Arctic in April. All travel is covered by Ben & Jerry’s and is offset through Cool Your Jets which invests in renewable energy projects.
The videos do have a comic aspect (incl the partying in the arctic bit) because they are trying to appeal to young people, and its very much in a Ben and Jerry’s style. The vandalising 4x4s is a jokey ad that ends with the words – There are better ways to fight climate change.
I do take your point about ageism but hundreds of programmes are directed purely at ‘youth’ including a number of government funded programmes (for example the Make Your Mark Campaign) that we are involved in.
And while I can concede most, I did have to make the following points:
My main concern was the 4x4. I honestly missed the end because it went on a bit and I thought it was not something I could support so I clicked off.
I wonder how many others might have done the same?
I made the ageism comment more on a personal basis having been excluded from a Guardian cartoon competition on the same basis.
For 'youth'.... 16 no problem. 18 ok. 21 at a stretch. 30? Next thing I'll find I can't go 18-30 clubbing any more.
Sorry. That's just cynical market demographics at work.
The Currently Can't Reasonably Really Abide Any Party Party
It is a real quandary: What greener politics?
I empathise.
Having toyed with Jedi Knights, NOTA (None of the above) and my most recent favourite, the Currently Can't Reasonably Really Abide Any Party Party, I am faced with the unpalatable fact that any 'protest' I may wish to make that they all suck simply gets dismissed as 'spoiled'.
The alternative is equally unappealing, especially if we enter the realms of 'tactical' voting. Some clown who gets 20% of the 20% who can be bothered to turn out pops up next day to claim a several year 'mandate from the people'.
If you do care about matters green, then the name does lend itself to one choice. But along with the planet I have kids to educate, a dotage to fund, etc, so it's looking like, for me, the lesser of three weevils.
BBC - Green agenda of conference season
I empathise.
Having toyed with Jedi Knights, NOTA (None of the above) and my most recent favourite, the Currently Can't Reasonably Really Abide Any Party Party, I am faced with the unpalatable fact that any 'protest' I may wish to make that they all suck simply gets dismissed as 'spoiled'.
The alternative is equally unappealing, especially if we enter the realms of 'tactical' voting. Some clown who gets 20% of the 20% who can be bothered to turn out pops up next day to claim a several year 'mandate from the people'.
If you do care about matters green, then the name does lend itself to one choice. But along with the planet I have kids to educate, a dotage to fund, etc, so it's looking like, for me, the lesser of three weevils.
BBC - Green agenda of conference season
Having it all ways?
No, I am not trying to get banned.
It's just what popped into my head when the ever-excellent Ecologist quoted the usually excellent Friends of the Earth on the matter of the Severn barrage (I'll pop in a link if I can find one):
"To seriously damage and important wildlife site to generate less than 1% of the UK's energy is not the way to lead the world in sustainable development'.
Hmnn. I can see a literal point being made here, but surely it is outweighed by a host of practical ones.
The big issue is nature vs. man (as if we are not part of the ecosystem as an organism, and were designed by...?). Yes, this will trash yet more green and pleasant to provide a less than essential commodity to feed such must-haves as the PC upon which I write.
But I am darned if I can see what the FoE expect. Even without Global Warming polar bears would eventually be consumed by Club Nome, as our population expands without check.
I'm afraid that, on a a pragmatic basis at least, if there is going to be a demand for energy that is currently fulled by carbon, I fear 99 more wildlife reserve may have to be sacrificed to meet it.
Or... we could just cut back. Odds?
It's just what popped into my head when the ever-excellent Ecologist quoted the usually excellent Friends of the Earth on the matter of the Severn barrage (I'll pop in a link if I can find one):
"To seriously damage and important wildlife site to generate less than 1% of the UK's energy is not the way to lead the world in sustainable development'.
Hmnn. I can see a literal point being made here, but surely it is outweighed by a host of practical ones.
The big issue is nature vs. man (as if we are not part of the ecosystem as an organism, and were designed by...?). Yes, this will trash yet more green and pleasant to provide a less than essential commodity to feed such must-haves as the PC upon which I write.
But I am darned if I can see what the FoE expect. Even without Global Warming polar bears would eventually be consumed by Club Nome, as our population expands without check.
I'm afraid that, on a a pragmatic basis at least, if there is going to be a demand for energy that is currently fulled by carbon, I fear 99 more wildlife reserve may have to be sacrificed to meet it.
Or... we could just cut back. Odds?
Wednesday, October 03, 2007
Greedy me is happy. Green me, however...
This just in from HMG: UK - Singapore air services agreement (no link - think it must be my Mac - so in full).
The UK and Singapore have initialled a landmark aviation agreement on air services.
The new liberalising deal removes all restrictions on air services between the two countries. It opens access to each country's aviation market for the other country's airlines, including flights to onward destinations in other countries, and applies state aid rules to ensure fair competition. It also finalises a new treaty that liberalises arrangements on a wide range of further issues including codesharing, fair competition, and groundhandling.
Aviation Minister Jim Fitzpatrick said:
"I am delighted by this new deal, which will be good for passengers and for the aviation industry both in the UK and Singapore. It is the most liberal agreement of its type, and I hope it will set the standard for other comparable agreements in the future. This is a major step towards extending the benefits of open aviation agreements that travellers already enjoy within Europe."
The new deal will allow the airlines of both sides to operate services between the other country and any third country. It is the first agreement that gives unfettered access to the London-US market to a non-EU or US airline.
In summary, this means it's now easier (and cheaper) all round to fly between here and Singapore? Good for visiting MaMa and Kong Kong I guess, but in that 12,000 mile trip just how much gets emitted? I'm guessing there is some trading weasel involved on targets.
The UK and Singapore have initialled a landmark aviation agreement on air services.
The new liberalising deal removes all restrictions on air services between the two countries. It opens access to each country's aviation market for the other country's airlines, including flights to onward destinations in other countries, and applies state aid rules to ensure fair competition. It also finalises a new treaty that liberalises arrangements on a wide range of further issues including codesharing, fair competition, and groundhandling.
Aviation Minister Jim Fitzpatrick said:
"I am delighted by this new deal, which will be good for passengers and for the aviation industry both in the UK and Singapore. It is the most liberal agreement of its type, and I hope it will set the standard for other comparable agreements in the future. This is a major step towards extending the benefits of open aviation agreements that travellers already enjoy within Europe."
The new deal will allow the airlines of both sides to operate services between the other country and any third country. It is the first agreement that gives unfettered access to the London-US market to a non-EU or US airline.
In summary, this means it's now easier (and cheaper) all round to fly between here and Singapore? Good for visiting MaMa and Kong Kong I guess, but in that 12,000 mile trip just how much gets emitted? I'm guessing there is some trading weasel involved on targets.
Europe's 20% target needs tougher legislation
The European Renewable Energy Council (EREC) yesterday recommended that Europe's commitment to realizing 20% of energy from renewables target requires tough legislation.
As reported in Renewable Energy World, EREC calls on the European Commission to "give itself the means to impose fines on Member States if it becomes clear that they will not reach their national binding target".
"Efforts to downplay the renewable energy target by stressing the greater significance of the greenhouse gas reduction target - for instance by including nuclear energy to count towards the renewables target - need to be turned down".
Perhaps our lamentable progress in the UK so far, and the apparent attempt to play down the significance of the target, as we commented on back in August, could see our own government having to pay big fines in the coming years?
As reported in Renewable Energy World, EREC calls on the European Commission to "give itself the means to impose fines on Member States if it becomes clear that they will not reach their national binding target".
"Efforts to downplay the renewable energy target by stressing the greater significance of the greenhouse gas reduction target - for instance by including nuclear energy to count towards the renewables target - need to be turned down".
Perhaps our lamentable progress in the UK so far, and the apparent attempt to play down the significance of the target, as we commented on back in August, could see our own government having to pay big fines in the coming years?
Shape of things to come?
Netherlands to launch carbon-based packaging tax
And why not? Can only help Junkk.nl. Add value to the pack to make its tax worthwhile:)
Though it is claimed that previous experience "shows that it is impossible to compare fairly all of the environmental factors of each packaging material, let alone the packaging produced from those materials".
But one has to wonder who an agreement was reached between the country's environment ministry, local authorities and industry. Whilst here....
No mention of the poor old punter, mind.
Packaging association warns against environmental taxes
How to make sense of packaging regulations
And why not? Can only help Junkk.nl. Add value to the pack to make its tax worthwhile:)
Though it is claimed that previous experience "shows that it is impossible to compare fairly all of the environmental factors of each packaging material, let alone the packaging produced from those materials".
But one has to wonder who an agreement was reached between the country's environment ministry, local authorities and industry. Whilst here....
No mention of the poor old punter, mind.
Packaging association warns against environmental taxes
How to make sense of packaging regulations
How a headline can mislead
Now when I saw this headline in today's Times - 'U-turn on showing of Al Gore climate change film in school' - I thought, oh, they have stopped schools from showing the film to their pupils, I wonder why.
So I read the article, only to discover that far from not stopping the film being shown, schools have simply been issued with new guidance about how to present the film, because some thought that the film was 'brainwashing' and 'too political'.
Now I'm all in favour of things being balanced, and of all sides and points of view being presented equitably, which the new guidance is supposedly going to assist with; but a headline like that is, to say the least, rather misrepresentative of the underlying story.
I'll bet that sometime before this day is over, someone will tell me that they've stopped showing 'An Inconvenient Truth' in schools; "it's definitely true, I saw it in The Times".
ADDENDUM (From Junkk Male) - I agree on the headline. But still have to wonder about the logic behind it all and how it has been handled, especially with many more up to date accounts soon on offer (on this very blog).
Telegraph - Al Gore's 'An Inconvenient Truth' can be shown to schools
BBC - Climate film allowed in schools
So I read the article, only to discover that far from not stopping the film being shown, schools have simply been issued with new guidance about how to present the film, because some thought that the film was 'brainwashing' and 'too political'.
Now I'm all in favour of things being balanced, and of all sides and points of view being presented equitably, which the new guidance is supposedly going to assist with; but a headline like that is, to say the least, rather misrepresentative of the underlying story.
I'll bet that sometime before this day is over, someone will tell me that they've stopped showing 'An Inconvenient Truth' in schools; "it's definitely true, I saw it in The Times".
ADDENDUM (From Junkk Male) - I agree on the headline. But still have to wonder about the logic behind it all and how it has been handled, especially with many more up to date accounts soon on offer (on this very blog).
Telegraph - Al Gore's 'An Inconvenient Truth' can be shown to schools
BBC - Climate film allowed in schools
Well, they did ask
Crude awakening
Why aren't more people talking about the imminent oil supply crisis?
Possible Ans: Maybe because the political leader and the political leadership (in theory) looking ahead at how best to lead this country usually have a few other things on their minds right now (emphasis on right now, which will apply to anything that can be grabbed for a bit of spin so that anything awkward can be deferred at least until the gold-plated pension kicks in).
Thanks for the heads up on the doco. Sounds like it's well worth a scope.
Why aren't more people talking about the imminent oil supply crisis?
Possible Ans: Maybe because the political leader and the political leadership (in theory) looking ahead at how best to lead this country usually have a few other things on their minds right now (emphasis on right now, which will apply to anything that can be grabbed for a bit of spin so that anything awkward can be deferred at least until the gold-plated pension kicks in).
Thanks for the heads up on the doco. Sounds like it's well worth a scope.
No wonder the Arctic ice melt was a record
This from today's Independent reports that scientists on Melville Island, usually one of the coldest places within the Arctic circle, recorded a summer temperature of 22C. This is where the daily summer temperature rarely goes above 5C.
Now 22C is about as warm as I can remember it getting where I live in the UK this summer! Whether or not you believe global warming is man-made, man-enhanced or just simply a natural cycle, an Arctic circle temperature of 22C is pretty damned significant evidence, along with a record ice melt year, that something rather strange is happening to the climate of our little lump of planetary rock.
ADDENDUM (by Junkk Male) -
I'll be impressed that any can deny that something darned odd isn't happening!
However, just to show that the causes (enviROI+ mitigation being a given, at least on this blog) may not be so clear cut... yet: Carbon Dioxide Did Not End The Last Ice Age, Study Says
What I loved was the Google ad:
Global Warming
If you are aged 11-18 you can win a trip to see the impact first hand
climatechallenge.gov.uk/competition
That'll sort it!
Real Climate - Cosmic rays don’t die so easily - now that little lot takes some wading through!
Now 22C is about as warm as I can remember it getting where I live in the UK this summer! Whether or not you believe global warming is man-made, man-enhanced or just simply a natural cycle, an Arctic circle temperature of 22C is pretty damned significant evidence, along with a record ice melt year, that something rather strange is happening to the climate of our little lump of planetary rock.
ADDENDUM (by Junkk Male) -
I'll be impressed that any can deny that something darned odd isn't happening!
However, just to show that the causes (enviROI+ mitigation being a given, at least on this blog) may not be so clear cut... yet: Carbon Dioxide Did Not End The Last Ice Age, Study Says
What I loved was the Google ad:
Global Warming
If you are aged 11-18 you can win a trip to see the impact first hand
climatechallenge.gov.uk/competition
That'll sort it!
Real Climate - Cosmic rays don’t die so easily - now that little lot takes some wading through!
A Greenie's home is their piggy bank
As an example of Junkk's mission statement of 'save (or make) money as well as the environment', this 'un is hard to fault: Self-built house voted greenest in Britain is sold for profit of £625,000
Good on 'em. Maybe all the consultants being hired in the gov, local gov and quango field should be at least pointed their way and asked (at tax payer's expense) to write on one side of A4 a justification how this family can do it and they couldn't join up two LEGO blocks without a 6-year consultation.
Good on 'em. Maybe all the consultants being hired in the gov, local gov and quango field should be at least pointed their way and asked (at tax payer's expense) to write on one side of A4 a justification how this family can do it and they couldn't join up two LEGO blocks without a 6-year consultation.
Time to renew our vows!
If the missus will have me... 'to have and to hold, for richer or greener... so long as the days can go on' - Tories use green taxes to promote marriage
'...money raised from the taxes would be placed in a "family fund" to ensure increases are matched pound-for-pound by reductions in the taxation burden elsewhere.'
Sounds a good match to this?: CARBON LEGACY
'...money raised from the taxes would be placed in a "family fund" to ensure increases are matched pound-for-pound by reductions in the taxation burden elsewhere.'
Sounds a good match to this?: CARBON LEGACY
Tuesday, October 02, 2007
Funny if it got better ratings than most we watch
World's most boring TV show to measure energy use
Actually, I find this pretty fascinating: 'The power needed by a television for the images varies according to the type of programme broadcast.'
So maybe we get taxed on whether it's EastEnders or X Factor?
Now, I'd switch off were it not for this darned laziness.
Actually, I find this pretty fascinating: 'The power needed by a television for the images varies according to the type of programme broadcast.'
So maybe we get taxed on whether it's EastEnders or X Factor?
Now, I'd switch off were it not for this darned laziness.
Arctic ice thaw may represent a 'tipping point'
There's that word again, may, it occurs an awful lot in anything where climate change is being discussed, so, at least for now, let's stick to the facts that we actually know.
We do know that the albedo effect can be scientifically measured; the white ice cover reflects an awful lot of solar energy back into space, whilst open sea water absorbs a lot more heat energy; therefore the less Arctic ice cover exists, the more heat energy is absorbed by the sea, thereby contributing to warming.
What we don't know is if there is any sort of 'tipping point', beyond which the ice will disappear far more rapidly, allowing far more heat into the Arctic Ocean and contributing significantly to global warming.
However, there is a lot of talk about theoretical tipping points, so when some 'experts' are suggesting that we are already past, at, or at least rapidly reaching the 'tipping point' for the Arctic Ice cap, then perhaps its time to start worrying. This, from PlanetArk, reports on the comments of the 'experts' involved.
"The reason so much (of the Arctic ice) went suddenly is that it is hitting a tipping point that we have been warning about for the past few years"
"In Germany, the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research says Arctic sea ice has 'already tipped'."
"I'd say we are reaching a tipping point or are past it for the ice. This is a strong indication that there is an amplifying mechanism here"
Three different 'experts', three slightly different conclusions, but all enough, perhaps, to give us all some cause for concern.
The thing is, the disappearing Arctic ice will barely affect sea levels at all, but if the Greenland ice sheet follows in the steps of the Arctic ice cap at anything like the same pace, and there are some initial indications that this is happening, as we have already mentioned, then mankind is going to be facing some very serious problems over the coming decades.
"It is a very good lesson, because the ice sheets (on Greenland and Antarctica) have their own tipping points, somewhat harder to get started but far more dangerous for humanity around the globe"
The Greenland ice sheet holds enough fresh water to raise sea levels by about 7 metres if it all melts; that, I read somewhere recently, would do for over half of this planet's major cities.
Anyone fancy a trip to Arks'R'Us?
Addendum:
Cameron could have a bit of a tough time on the subject of climate change; it looks like the Tories' Freedom Association thinks that climate change is all a load of bull. See 'Tory climate change sceptics' from the Guardian.
We do know that this summer a record for the melting of the Arctic ice cap occurred; well, at least as far as accurate human modern records go back; "The Arctic summer sea ice shrank by more than 20 percent below the previous 2005 record low in mid-September to 4.13 million sq km (1.6 million sq miles), according to a 30-year satellite record."
We do know that the albedo effect can be scientifically measured; the white ice cover reflects an awful lot of solar energy back into space, whilst open sea water absorbs a lot more heat energy; therefore the less Arctic ice cover exists, the more heat energy is absorbed by the sea, thereby contributing to warming.
What we don't know is if there is any sort of 'tipping point', beyond which the ice will disappear far more rapidly, allowing far more heat into the Arctic Ocean and contributing significantly to global warming.
However, there is a lot of talk about theoretical tipping points, so when some 'experts' are suggesting that we are already past, at, or at least rapidly reaching the 'tipping point' for the Arctic Ice cap, then perhaps its time to start worrying. This, from PlanetArk, reports on the comments of the 'experts' involved.
"The reason so much (of the Arctic ice) went suddenly is that it is hitting a tipping point that we have been warning about for the past few years"
"In Germany, the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research says Arctic sea ice has 'already tipped'."
"I'd say we are reaching a tipping point or are past it for the ice. This is a strong indication that there is an amplifying mechanism here"
Three different 'experts', three slightly different conclusions, but all enough, perhaps, to give us all some cause for concern.
The thing is, the disappearing Arctic ice will barely affect sea levels at all, but if the Greenland ice sheet follows in the steps of the Arctic ice cap at anything like the same pace, and there are some initial indications that this is happening, as we have already mentioned, then mankind is going to be facing some very serious problems over the coming decades.
"It is a very good lesson, because the ice sheets (on Greenland and Antarctica) have their own tipping points, somewhat harder to get started but far more dangerous for humanity around the globe"
The Greenland ice sheet holds enough fresh water to raise sea levels by about 7 metres if it all melts; that, I read somewhere recently, would do for over half of this planet's major cities.
Anyone fancy a trip to Arks'R'Us?
Addendum:
Cameron could have a bit of a tough time on the subject of climate change; it looks like the Tories' Freedom Association thinks that climate change is all a load of bull. See 'Tory climate change sceptics' from the Guardian.
Mr. Deeds and Mr. SME go to town
Small firms’ strategies include going green
At least they qualified the 85% figure with the rather necessary word...'claim'.
My faith in research of this sort is well-known, and this is one of those where you wonder who of the remaining 15% , on being asked 'are you going to go more enviro-friendly?' decided on a 'nah'.
More worthy of note is that qualitatively, the majority of these firms do not feel they are being supported by the government in their efforts. They want government advice on best practice. That would be advice... from our government... on the best way to handle this? Hmmn.
At least they qualified the 85% figure with the rather necessary word...'claim'.
My faith in research of this sort is well-known, and this is one of those where you wonder who of the remaining 15% , on being asked 'are you going to go more enviro-friendly?' decided on a 'nah'.
More worthy of note is that qualitatively, the majority of these firms do not feel they are being supported by the government in their efforts. They want government advice on best practice. That would be advice... from our government... on the best way to handle this? Hmmn.
Hot 'n 'Am I bovvered?'
This just in from HMG - Homeowners to get green boiler rating
The link didn't work, again, so I'm afraid it's a full print of the PR... again
On balance this seems like a welcome opportunity to improve one's green awareness, though for some there may be a less than welcome sting in the tail (I'm guessing most of those old , inefficient boilers may be owned by those ill-equipped to do much about an upgrade - maybe a better source for funds blown on box-ticking comms efforts? One wonders how much this bit of news will be shared around to those most able to benefit). And, these days, what you know soon gets known by who else? HIP, hip... who levies rate charges again?
Here's the full piece, without the talking head puff, but do go through to the end as there are links to some useful bits and bobs:
From today homeowners can ask for a free A-G energy rating for their boiler with advice to help cut fuel bills, when the engineer visits.
Heating and hot water bills are the biggest energy costs households face each month, yet many people are unaware the average boiler is 'E' rated and could produce over 50 per cent more heat - making the recommended improvements could cut fuel bills by hundreds of pounds and reduce carbon emissions.
The energy assessment includes a checklist of efficiency improvements. For example, a family could save nearly £100 a year just by taking a few a simple steps like getting a 75mm water cylinder jacket, installing heating controls and insulating the hot water pipes.
Longer term measures such as changing from a low G rated boiler to an A rated one could save over £200 a year and cut up to 2.7 tonnes of carbon off a household's carbon footprint.
According to the Heating and Hot Water Industry Council there are still around 4 million old, very inefficient boilers in use in homes, most of which will still be operating in 2010. Replacing these would save two and half a million tonnes of C02 each year by 2010.
Most businesses have rising energy costs. The Carbon Trust estimates that hot water accounts for about 60% of total energy bills for commercial and industrial buildings. [I was surprised at this].
Four year energy efficiency loans of up to £100,000 pounds are available to eligible small and medium companies (SMEs) to help them make changes sooner rather than later. It is also possible to apply for tax relief via enhanced capital allowances - if a business invests in energy-saving machinery it can write off the whole cost of the equipment against taxable profits in the year of purchase.
Only 20% of new gas boilers installed in 2003 were A or B rated. The Government has raised the energy performance standards for new and replacement central-heating boilers - now 95% of new gas boilers installed now are A or B rated condensing boilers.
Peter Thom, President IDHEE said:
"The Institute of Domestic Heating and Environmental Engineers fully support this initiative to raise awareness of how inefficient and wasteful old boilers are. Faithful boilers can last longer than 15 years, but they have a detrimental effect on the environment. Installing a modern condensing boiler with new controls can save up to 40% on fuel bills and carbon dioxide emissions and don't forget that over 80% of energy used in the home is for heating and hot water" [Which seems to make it very sensible to look at getting government and loan bodies' heads together on an even greater, and better publicised (to those below) package where all who can benefit do so asap].
More information on Enhanced Capital Grants
More information on interest free energy - efficiency loans
The link didn't work, again, so I'm afraid it's a full print of the PR... again
On balance this seems like a welcome opportunity to improve one's green awareness, though for some there may be a less than welcome sting in the tail (I'm guessing most of those old , inefficient boilers may be owned by those ill-equipped to do much about an upgrade - maybe a better source for funds blown on box-ticking comms efforts? One wonders how much this bit of news will be shared around to those most able to benefit). And, these days, what you know soon gets known by who else? HIP, hip... who levies rate charges again?
Here's the full piece, without the talking head puff, but do go through to the end as there are links to some useful bits and bobs:
From today homeowners can ask for a free A-G energy rating for their boiler with advice to help cut fuel bills, when the engineer visits.
Heating and hot water bills are the biggest energy costs households face each month, yet many people are unaware the average boiler is 'E' rated and could produce over 50 per cent more heat - making the recommended improvements could cut fuel bills by hundreds of pounds and reduce carbon emissions.
The energy assessment includes a checklist of efficiency improvements. For example, a family could save nearly £100 a year just by taking a few a simple steps like getting a 75mm water cylinder jacket, installing heating controls and insulating the hot water pipes.
Longer term measures such as changing from a low G rated boiler to an A rated one could save over £200 a year and cut up to 2.7 tonnes of carbon off a household's carbon footprint.
According to the Heating and Hot Water Industry Council there are still around 4 million old, very inefficient boilers in use in homes, most of which will still be operating in 2010. Replacing these would save two and half a million tonnes of C02 each year by 2010.
Most businesses have rising energy costs. The Carbon Trust estimates that hot water accounts for about 60% of total energy bills for commercial and industrial buildings. [I was surprised at this].
Four year energy efficiency loans of up to £100,000 pounds are available to eligible small and medium companies (SMEs) to help them make changes sooner rather than later. It is also possible to apply for tax relief via enhanced capital allowances - if a business invests in energy-saving machinery it can write off the whole cost of the equipment against taxable profits in the year of purchase.
Only 20% of new gas boilers installed in 2003 were A or B rated. The Government has raised the energy performance standards for new and replacement central-heating boilers - now 95% of new gas boilers installed now are A or B rated condensing boilers.
Peter Thom, President IDHEE said:
"The Institute of Domestic Heating and Environmental Engineers fully support this initiative to raise awareness of how inefficient and wasteful old boilers are. Faithful boilers can last longer than 15 years, but they have a detrimental effect on the environment. Installing a modern condensing boiler with new controls can save up to 40% on fuel bills and carbon dioxide emissions and don't forget that over 80% of energy used in the home is for heating and hot water" [Which seems to make it very sensible to look at getting government and loan bodies' heads together on an even greater, and better publicised (to those below) package where all who can benefit do so asap].
More information on Enhanced Capital Grants
More information on interest free energy - efficiency loans
'Dere was dese tree fella's...
Amazon jungle could be lost in 40 years, say campaigners
OK, there's 'could' and 'campaigners' in there to add a slight eyebrow kink, but really, can we ignore this at the expense of some of the petty nonsense that usually gets obsessed about?
OK, there's 'could' and 'campaigners' in there to add a slight eyebrow kink, but really, can we ignore this at the expense of some of the petty nonsense that usually gets obsessed about?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)