A link sent to me by a friend (thanks Dave) about recycling in my home town of Hull. Apparently much of it is transported up to 250 miles away to be sorted.
Which begs the question: is it worth it? Are the air miles and energy required for recycling really good for the environment, or just a PR exercise to sooth troubled consciences (as so many environmental initiatives are)?
You can read the full article here:
County's recycled rubbish will be shipped hundreds of miles to be sorted
Thursday, 12 August 2010
Friday, 6 August 2010
Washing up vs dishwashers
A quick search on google yields a list of results that indicate dishwashers are more environmentally friendly than washing up.
Now, being a cynical soul, (as well as one who believed beyond doubt that washing up was more environmentally friendly until a month ago) I was initially inclined to believe that this myth had been circulated by the people who wanted us to believe it the most - people who sold dishwashers.
But after looking more carefully, I can see that this is actually true - provided the following:
- the dishwasher is new (ish) and energy efficient - don't just go for the cheap option
- you only run it when it's full
- you don't rinse dishes beforehand
- you don't utilise the drying option
But how is this possible? Surely using our free, natural and environmentally friendly hands has GOT to be more environmentally friendly than powering a machine?
Apparently not. There's an interesting article on it here: Diswashers vs hand washing (on what is, incidentally, an excellent site called green living tips).
The energy required to heat up the water, coupled with the amount of water used (especially if rinsing before and after) and the frequency of completion means that washing up is generally more environmentally damaging - with a few clauses:
- The energy and materials required to manufacture a dishwasher are much greater than that required to manufacture a sink (and our hands!)
- Dishwasher tablets are, apparently, more damaging to the environment than most washing up liquid brands
- Running it frequently or when it's not full can be very damaging - which means it can be difficult if you just need to wash a few things to cook with (especially if you have no draining board, as is the case in our new flat!)
All in all, I am still fairly cynical about the environmental credentials of any machine. It stands to reason that if you do one lot of washing up per day and you are sensible with water, it would be more environmentally friendly. For many people however, especially with families, this isn't possible and so a dishwasher would be a better choice.
There is also the fact that it saves on time and makes room for other (usually environmentally damaging) activities. Such as watching TV, going on the computer, writing blog posts...
Now, being a cynical soul, (as well as one who believed beyond doubt that washing up was more environmentally friendly until a month ago) I was initially inclined to believe that this myth had been circulated by the people who wanted us to believe it the most - people who sold dishwashers.
But after looking more carefully, I can see that this is actually true - provided the following:
- the dishwasher is new (ish) and energy efficient - don't just go for the cheap option
- you only run it when it's full
- you don't rinse dishes beforehand
- you don't utilise the drying option
But how is this possible? Surely using our free, natural and environmentally friendly hands has GOT to be more environmentally friendly than powering a machine?
Apparently not. There's an interesting article on it here: Diswashers vs hand washing (on what is, incidentally, an excellent site called green living tips).
The energy required to heat up the water, coupled with the amount of water used (especially if rinsing before and after) and the frequency of completion means that washing up is generally more environmentally damaging - with a few clauses:
- The energy and materials required to manufacture a dishwasher are much greater than that required to manufacture a sink (and our hands!)
- Dishwasher tablets are, apparently, more damaging to the environment than most washing up liquid brands
- Running it frequently or when it's not full can be very damaging - which means it can be difficult if you just need to wash a few things to cook with (especially if you have no draining board, as is the case in our new flat!)
All in all, I am still fairly cynical about the environmental credentials of any machine. It stands to reason that if you do one lot of washing up per day and you are sensible with water, it would be more environmentally friendly. For many people however, especially with families, this isn't possible and so a dishwasher would be a better choice.
There is also the fact that it saves on time and makes room for other (usually environmentally damaging) activities. Such as watching TV, going on the computer, writing blog posts...
Tuesday, 3 August 2010
Good Living on Facebook
Good Living has a group on Facebook - if you're a facebook geek (like me) you might be interested in joining :-)
You can find it here: Good Living: Facebook group
You can find it here: Good Living: Facebook group
Sunday, 1 August 2010
Planting trees to offset carbon - what's wrong with it?
It's human nature: we like to fix problems after they've happened. There's no impetus to do so beforehand, because we cannot comprehend the scale of the damage until we have to face it.
That's how I see carbon offsetting.
Many scientists are in agreement that we are currently at a tipping point: it's not too late to solve the problem of climate change, but it will be soon.
But because we like our cosy lifestyles (I'm not knocking it - I'm just as bad) we'd rather invest time and energy on a quick fix than alter our lifestyles and expectations.
So we invented carbon offsetting to try and manipulate the carbon cycle to our advantage.
The carbon cycle consists of carbon pools (where carbon is stored, for example vegetation, the ocean etc) and carbon flows, by which carbon flows between these pools. Plants naturally remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis (converting carbon dioxide into new plant tissue) causing carbon dioxide to flow from the atmosphere into vegetation.
Therefore, by planting extra trees, we can supposedly offset the negative effects of excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, and carry on polluting at will. This idea is promoted by many companies as a way to ease the conscience of ethically sensitive consumers.
Sounds good, yes? Surely it's better to do something than nothing.
But that completely misses the point.
If people are encouraged to offset carbon emissions, then they are receiving the message that it's OK to pollute. The burden can be passed onto someone else (usually a poor community which is charged with the responsibility of maintaining the forest).
The facts are clear to see: this is not acceptable. Something must be done to reduce climate change emissions as well as mitigating them. The situation is too urgent to simply carry on as we are.
Not only this, but carbon offsetting schemes are very often flawed P.R. exercises:
- Carbon offsetting forests are often forced on poor communities which lack either the knowledge or the skills to maintain them. Such communities can even be displaced by such schemes.
- These forests can consist of trees which are alien to the environment in which they are planted, therefore damaging the local ecosystem and descreasing biodiversity.
- The lifespan of a tree is not guaranteed: it can be killed by disease, deforestation or climate change itself, therefore eliminating any benefits. We all remember the debacle of the Coldplay Forest (Telegraph article: The Coldplay Forest).
- Sometimes old trees can be cut down in order to plant trees to supposedly offset carbon!
- There is a lack of accountability.
- They deflect attention away from reducing carbon emissions.
Don't get me wrong - planting trees is obviously a good thing.
In the face of widespread deforestation, and climate change, tree planting is an extremely positive activity and one that can indeed reduce carbon emissions in the atmosphere.
However, it should not be viewed as 'offsetting' - it is something that should be done as well as reducing emissions.
It is telling that the firest travel company to introduce the idea of carbon offsetting to mitigate the effects of flying (Responsible Travel) were also the first to get rid of it (you can read why here:http://www.responsibletravel.com/Copy/Copy101331.htm)).
Friends of the Earth are also strongly opposed to the idea of carbon offsetting (you can read why here: http://www.foe.co.uk/resource/briefing_notes/dangerous_distraction.pdf)
So for the sake of the planet, please don't make the mistake of using companies that offer carbon offsetting, or promoting such companies to others.
Prevention is better than cure.
That's how I see carbon offsetting.
Many scientists are in agreement that we are currently at a tipping point: it's not too late to solve the problem of climate change, but it will be soon.
But because we like our cosy lifestyles (I'm not knocking it - I'm just as bad) we'd rather invest time and energy on a quick fix than alter our lifestyles and expectations.
So we invented carbon offsetting to try and manipulate the carbon cycle to our advantage.
The carbon cycle consists of carbon pools (where carbon is stored, for example vegetation, the ocean etc) and carbon flows, by which carbon flows between these pools. Plants naturally remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis (converting carbon dioxide into new plant tissue) causing carbon dioxide to flow from the atmosphere into vegetation.
Therefore, by planting extra trees, we can supposedly offset the negative effects of excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, and carry on polluting at will. This idea is promoted by many companies as a way to ease the conscience of ethically sensitive consumers.
Sounds good, yes? Surely it's better to do something than nothing.
But that completely misses the point.
If people are encouraged to offset carbon emissions, then they are receiving the message that it's OK to pollute. The burden can be passed onto someone else (usually a poor community which is charged with the responsibility of maintaining the forest).
The facts are clear to see: this is not acceptable. Something must be done to reduce climate change emissions as well as mitigating them. The situation is too urgent to simply carry on as we are.
Not only this, but carbon offsetting schemes are very often flawed P.R. exercises:
- Carbon offsetting forests are often forced on poor communities which lack either the knowledge or the skills to maintain them. Such communities can even be displaced by such schemes.
- These forests can consist of trees which are alien to the environment in which they are planted, therefore damaging the local ecosystem and descreasing biodiversity.
- The lifespan of a tree is not guaranteed: it can be killed by disease, deforestation or climate change itself, therefore eliminating any benefits. We all remember the debacle of the Coldplay Forest (Telegraph article: The Coldplay Forest).
- Sometimes old trees can be cut down in order to plant trees to supposedly offset carbon!
- There is a lack of accountability.
- They deflect attention away from reducing carbon emissions.
Don't get me wrong - planting trees is obviously a good thing.
In the face of widespread deforestation, and climate change, tree planting is an extremely positive activity and one that can indeed reduce carbon emissions in the atmosphere.
However, it should not be viewed as 'offsetting' - it is something that should be done as well as reducing emissions.
It is telling that the firest travel company to introduce the idea of carbon offsetting to mitigate the effects of flying (Responsible Travel) were also the first to get rid of it (you can read why here:http://www.responsibletravel.com/Copy/Copy101331.htm)).
Friends of the Earth are also strongly opposed to the idea of carbon offsetting (you can read why here: http://www.foe.co.uk/resource/briefing_notes/dangerous_distraction.pdf)
So for the sake of the planet, please don't make the mistake of using companies that offer carbon offsetting, or promoting such companies to others.
Prevention is better than cure.
Saturday, 31 July 2010
Food waste in the US worth more than offshore drilling
Very interesting link sent to me by a friend in 'New Scientist'. It's worrying how much food waste costs - especially when you consider the attention paid to offshore drilling at the moment - not just in absolute monetery terms but in environmental terms, not to mention the financial and human cost imposed on the third world. You can read the article here: 'New Scientist' - Food waste in the US costs more than offshore drilling.
For ways to reduce the amount of food you and your family waste, you can read my post here and for further information on what's wrong with food waste, you can read my post here if you're interested!
For ways to reduce the amount of food you and your family waste, you can read my post here and for further information on what's wrong with food waste, you can read my post here if you're interested!
Quiet Environmentalist
Great website I've come across - focuses on green issues in the news, especially the political nature of environmental agreements, and how to counteract consumerist/capitalist culture. Much more indepth than my humble little site, and a great read for anyone keen to learn more.
You can find it here: http://www.quiet-environmentalist.com/
You can find it here: http://www.quiet-environmentalist.com/
Friday, 30 July 2010
How ethical is Starbucks?
A friend of mine recently leant me a pullout from The Guardian entitled 'A Guide to Ethical Living'. Whilst the guide was extremely interesting (and no doubt the source of many future posts), what intrigued me was the fact that it was produced 'in association with Starbucks.'
Now, I'm no expert on irony.
But I do know that the various ethical people I've had the pleasure to be friends with would not consider Starbucks to be a guru in the field of ethics (rightly or wrongly.)
I do know that Starbucks serves 100% fairtrade coffee (which is excellent) and has various charity initiatives (for example donating 5p for every cup of coffee sold to the Global Fund for World AIDS Day) - which is also excellent.
However, I also know that Starbucks have been heavily criticised for:
- forcing the closure of other coffee shops, both independent and those of rival chains
- having environmentally damaging policies (for example having taps constantly running to ensure utensils are clean)
- having a draconian approach to trademarking (for example, Starbucks refused to let Ethiopia trademark its coffee, which according to Oxfam cost the country £47million per year). Ref - http://tinyurl.com/5hkpae.
According to a survey carried out by The Times in 2008, the ethical record of Starbucks was rated as worse than any other chain apart from McDonalds, KFC and Burger King.
Now I know that a survey is not always accurate, and those surveyed may be basing their answers on perceived reputation rather than fact. But surely Starbucks has no right positioning itself as an ethical preacher in the face of such perception?
Call me cynical, but Starbucks appears to be playing the ethical card for PR purposes, at the expense of genuine ethics and social responsibility. While it is a step in the right directiong that 100% of Starbucks coffee is fairtrade, it doesn't take much of a mental leap to compare the (some would say astronomical) prices of a Starbucks cup of coffee with the amount paid to coffee farmers - fairtrade or not.
What does everyone think about this? Has Starbucks had a moral change of heart? Or is it simply trying to promote an ethical image to appease ethically sensitive customers?
Now, I'm no expert on irony.
But I do know that the various ethical people I've had the pleasure to be friends with would not consider Starbucks to be a guru in the field of ethics (rightly or wrongly.)
I do know that Starbucks serves 100% fairtrade coffee (which is excellent) and has various charity initiatives (for example donating 5p for every cup of coffee sold to the Global Fund for World AIDS Day) - which is also excellent.
However, I also know that Starbucks have been heavily criticised for:
- forcing the closure of other coffee shops, both independent and those of rival chains
- having environmentally damaging policies (for example having taps constantly running to ensure utensils are clean)
- having a draconian approach to trademarking (for example, Starbucks refused to let Ethiopia trademark its coffee, which according to Oxfam cost the country £47million per year). Ref - http://tinyurl.com/5hkpae.
According to a survey carried out by The Times in 2008, the ethical record of Starbucks was rated as worse than any other chain apart from McDonalds, KFC and Burger King.
Now I know that a survey is not always accurate, and those surveyed may be basing their answers on perceived reputation rather than fact. But surely Starbucks has no right positioning itself as an ethical preacher in the face of such perception?
Call me cynical, but Starbucks appears to be playing the ethical card for PR purposes, at the expense of genuine ethics and social responsibility. While it is a step in the right directiong that 100% of Starbucks coffee is fairtrade, it doesn't take much of a mental leap to compare the (some would say astronomical) prices of a Starbucks cup of coffee with the amount paid to coffee farmers - fairtrade or not.
What does everyone think about this? Has Starbucks had a moral change of heart? Or is it simply trying to promote an ethical image to appease ethically sensitive customers?
Thursday, 29 July 2010
Good Living is now on Twitter!
Well, as the title says, Good Living is now on twitter...
If you're a twitter fan (frankly I'm finding it a little confusing) you can find me here:
https://twitter.com/Goodliving_blog
If you're a twitter fan (frankly I'm finding it a little confusing) you can find me here:
https://twitter.com/Goodliving_blog
Should you give money to beggars?
Say you're out and about, and you see a man in a doorway, arms oustretched, asking you to spare some change.
What do you do?
There is a huge amount of conflicting advice, which polarises those who are in agreement on many other subjects. Some say that if you give money, you're a mug fuelling a drug habit or perpetuating a sham lifestyle; others say that if you don't, you have no compassion.
So I want to know: what do you do?
From a brief glance at a variety of articles on the subject, I have established the following points both for and against giving money.
Reasons NOT to give money to beggars:
- They will potentially spend it on drugs, alcohol or cigarettes rather than food, clothes etc
- It may perpetuate a begging lifestyle, rather than forcing them to find a route out of their situation (such as by selling the Big Issue, which I've written about here: http://goodliving-blog.blogspot.com/2010/07/big-issue.html).
- There is the possibility that, if you give money to a beggar, you are giving money to a fraud who doesn't actually need the money. In my opinion this is a grave crime because it casts doubt over the many genuinely needy people there are.
- It could be said it is better to give to homelessness charities such as Shelter, who will give the appropriate assistance by means such as providing food, shelter and assistance in finding housing and employment.
Reasons TO give money to beggars:
- For some people, it is the only option other than to descend into crime
- It could be argued that whatever they spend it on is their own choice. There is nothing to say that if you give money to your plumber, or bartender, or accountant, that he or she will not spend it on drugs and alcohol. I know that the problem is more rife among the homeless population than elsewhere; but it is patronising to say that, just because someone is poor, he or she cannot be responsible for spending responsibly.
- Giving to beggars and giving to charity are not mutually exclusive.
- Although there are some frauds, is it not better to lose some money to a few of those, than risk allowing the genuinely needy to go without?
- 'There but for the grace of God (or Fate) go I...' This saying is particularly true during today's troubled financial times, when we are all having to tighten our belts. Remember there are always people worse off.
- By not giving to beggars, we are showing a level of callousness that damages self esteem, confidence etc as well as finances. How would you feel?
And me? You've probably guessed from my ever-so-slightly biased account that I am in favour of giving.
However, I am not 100% decided. I hate the idea of giving money to people which they will ultimately spend on a habit which is ruining their lives.
I suppose I have to be honest and say, generally, I use my wildly prejudiced and incorrect impression of people to determine whether they are genuine or not. A terribly misguided way of doing things, but the only way I have.
At the same time, I buy the Big Issue whenever I can, which I think should be the natural option for many homeless people.
So let me know - what do you do? What are your thoughts? Answers on a postcard :-)
What do you do?
There is a huge amount of conflicting advice, which polarises those who are in agreement on many other subjects. Some say that if you give money, you're a mug fuelling a drug habit or perpetuating a sham lifestyle; others say that if you don't, you have no compassion.
So I want to know: what do you do?
From a brief glance at a variety of articles on the subject, I have established the following points both for and against giving money.
Reasons NOT to give money to beggars:
- They will potentially spend it on drugs, alcohol or cigarettes rather than food, clothes etc
- It may perpetuate a begging lifestyle, rather than forcing them to find a route out of their situation (such as by selling the Big Issue, which I've written about here: http://goodliving-blog.blogspot.com/2010/07/big-issue.html).
- There is the possibility that, if you give money to a beggar, you are giving money to a fraud who doesn't actually need the money. In my opinion this is a grave crime because it casts doubt over the many genuinely needy people there are.
- It could be said it is better to give to homelessness charities such as Shelter, who will give the appropriate assistance by means such as providing food, shelter and assistance in finding housing and employment.
Reasons TO give money to beggars:
- For some people, it is the only option other than to descend into crime
- It could be argued that whatever they spend it on is their own choice. There is nothing to say that if you give money to your plumber, or bartender, or accountant, that he or she will not spend it on drugs and alcohol. I know that the problem is more rife among the homeless population than elsewhere; but it is patronising to say that, just because someone is poor, he or she cannot be responsible for spending responsibly.
- Giving to beggars and giving to charity are not mutually exclusive.
- Although there are some frauds, is it not better to lose some money to a few of those, than risk allowing the genuinely needy to go without?
- 'There but for the grace of God (or Fate) go I...' This saying is particularly true during today's troubled financial times, when we are all having to tighten our belts. Remember there are always people worse off.
- By not giving to beggars, we are showing a level of callousness that damages self esteem, confidence etc as well as finances. How would you feel?
And me? You've probably guessed from my ever-so-slightly biased account that I am in favour of giving.
However, I am not 100% decided. I hate the idea of giving money to people which they will ultimately spend on a habit which is ruining their lives.
I suppose I have to be honest and say, generally, I use my wildly prejudiced and incorrect impression of people to determine whether they are genuine or not. A terribly misguided way of doing things, but the only way I have.
At the same time, I buy the Big Issue whenever I can, which I think should be the natural option for many homeless people.
So let me know - what do you do? What are your thoughts? Answers on a postcard :-)
Wednesday, 28 July 2010
Green (Living) Review
A quick post telling you about another fantastic blog called 'Green (Living) Review' - which reviews all things to do with the environment and sustainable living. Packed full of hints and tips, information about items in the news, green products and lots of more. I found it while surfing for related blogs and I ended up staying for ages - a very interesting read for people interested in the environment.
You can find it here: http://greenreview.blogspot.com/
You can find it here: http://greenreview.blogspot.com/
Sunday, 25 July 2010
Why free range eggs aren't as ethical as you think
Let me begin by saying that free range eggs are much, much better than battery eggs.
This is something we all know - and most people who care about ethics opt for the free range option every time. Battery hens are crammed into a miserable existence, unable to raise even a single wing; in contrast, free range hens are allowed at least some movement and outside access.
But is the free range option actually more damaging to chickens, the environment and the animal rights movement in general?
Or would it be better to avoid eggs altogether?
Here are a few facts
1. Free range hens are usually kept in cramped, indoor conditions. The only legal requirement is that they have some access to the outdoors. However, this often means a few holes cut in the walls, through which only a handful of chickens will ever go. This 'outside' area is often a tiny patch of bare earth.
2. Free range hens undergo painful and inhumane procedures - including being 'debeaked', which involves having the ends of their beaks cut off without anaesthetic.
3. For every free range hen born, a male chick is born. As male chicks are unable to lay eggs they are usually killed soon after birth by a range of methods including gassing, strangulation, crushing or live shredding. Those that are not killed are raised for meat, with none of the benefits that free range hens enjoy.
4. Free range hens are killed as soon as their egg-laying starts to wane - usually after about twelve months (their natural lifespan could be six-seven years). This involves a long trip to a slaughterhouse without food or water, where they are killed using the same methods as non-free range hens.
5. While free range hens undoubtedly live in better conditions than battery hens, the existence of free range hens gives a 'conscience soother' to those people who would otherwise avoid eggs. Therefore, like many other ethical 'tickets', such as carbon offsetting, it is diverting attention away from the real problem which is: the egg industry is cruel, no matter how it is carried out.
6. All eggs, free range or otherwise, are packed full of cholesterol.
7. Free range eggs still damage the environment - in fact more so, as more land and energy are required. The meat industry is extremely damaging to the environment - more so than the world's entire transport system including aviation.
8. Free range labels provide a smoke screen for farmers who actually engage in cruel activities. An image is projected of happy, natural hens roaming the land, and ethically concerned consumers are deceived into believing they are making the humane choice. If these labels did not exist, these same ethically concerned consumers would probably avoid buying eggs altogether.
Obviously, if you are going to buy eggs at all, free range eggs are the preferable option. But if the demand for eggs remains so high, then supply has to match it - and the only way to ensure adequate supply is by cramming as many hens as possible into as small a space as possible.
Demand has to drop in order for supplies to drop - which is the only way to ensure hens are not subjected to horrific cruelty.
So next time you're shopping, why not consider avoiding eggs, free-range or otherwise?
This is something we all know - and most people who care about ethics opt for the free range option every time. Battery hens are crammed into a miserable existence, unable to raise even a single wing; in contrast, free range hens are allowed at least some movement and outside access.
But is the free range option actually more damaging to chickens, the environment and the animal rights movement in general?
Or would it be better to avoid eggs altogether?
Here are a few facts
1. Free range hens are usually kept in cramped, indoor conditions. The only legal requirement is that they have some access to the outdoors. However, this often means a few holes cut in the walls, through which only a handful of chickens will ever go. This 'outside' area is often a tiny patch of bare earth.
2. Free range hens undergo painful and inhumane procedures - including being 'debeaked', which involves having the ends of their beaks cut off without anaesthetic.
3. For every free range hen born, a male chick is born. As male chicks are unable to lay eggs they are usually killed soon after birth by a range of methods including gassing, strangulation, crushing or live shredding. Those that are not killed are raised for meat, with none of the benefits that free range hens enjoy.
4. Free range hens are killed as soon as their egg-laying starts to wane - usually after about twelve months (their natural lifespan could be six-seven years). This involves a long trip to a slaughterhouse without food or water, where they are killed using the same methods as non-free range hens.
5. While free range hens undoubtedly live in better conditions than battery hens, the existence of free range hens gives a 'conscience soother' to those people who would otherwise avoid eggs. Therefore, like many other ethical 'tickets', such as carbon offsetting, it is diverting attention away from the real problem which is: the egg industry is cruel, no matter how it is carried out.
6. All eggs, free range or otherwise, are packed full of cholesterol.
7. Free range eggs still damage the environment - in fact more so, as more land and energy are required. The meat industry is extremely damaging to the environment - more so than the world's entire transport system including aviation.
8. Free range labels provide a smoke screen for farmers who actually engage in cruel activities. An image is projected of happy, natural hens roaming the land, and ethically concerned consumers are deceived into believing they are making the humane choice. If these labels did not exist, these same ethically concerned consumers would probably avoid buying eggs altogether.
Obviously, if you are going to buy eggs at all, free range eggs are the preferable option. But if the demand for eggs remains so high, then supply has to match it - and the only way to ensure adequate supply is by cramming as many hens as possible into as small a space as possible.
Demand has to drop in order for supplies to drop - which is the only way to ensure hens are not subjected to horrific cruelty.
So next time you're shopping, why not consider avoiding eggs, free-range or otherwise?
Friday, 23 July 2010
50 ways to save energy...
Here goes... *deep breath*
1. Turn lights off when you leave the room
2. Turn appliances off when you're not using them (don't leave them on standby)
3. Use energy-saving lightbulbs
4. Only charge appliances (such as phones) for as long as they need
5. Don't drive when you can walk/cycle/use public transport
6. Only fill the kettle as much as you need (or have a cold drink)
7. Only use the washing machine when you have a full load
8. NEVER tumble dry - put clothes on the line if it's nice, or use a clothes drier indoors and open the window.
9. Have cooler (and shorter) showers
10. Put a jumper on before you turn the heating on
11. Take a layer off before you put the air conditioning/fan on
12. Turn your thermostat one degree lower
13. If the weather's nice, go to the park instead of watching TV/listening to music/playing computer games
14. Turn your washing machine to 30 degrees (or lower, if it'll let you)
15. Go for a run instead of to the gym
16. Get an energy meter/monitor installed to keep track of how much you're using
17. Invest in energy efficient equipment if you can - such as the boiler, washing machine, dishwasher etc. These things are expensive but save money in the long run.
18. Insulate your loft
19. Get double glazing
20. Don't leave the fridge door open if it's unnecessary
21. Allow food to cool before putting it in the fridge
22. Match the size of the pan to the size of the ring on the hob (this prevents heat from being lost either side of the pan)
23. Open the window before you put the extractor fan on
24. Insulate your hot water tank
25. Fit draught proofing products to your doors, windows and keyholes
26. Accelerate and brake smoothly when driving
27. Switch to a renewable energy company (doesn't necessarily save energy, but it doesn't damage the planet so I'm keeping it in)
28. Don't put furniture in front of radiators as it will block the heat
29. Turn the thermostat on your hot water tank down to 60 degrees
30. Put the plug in the basin when running water (especially hot water)
31. Put a lid on saucepans to stop heat escaping
32. Keep your fridge in a cooler room such as the garage
33. Defrost your freezer regularly
34. Put a mirror opposite a large window - it'll make maximum use of natural light
35. Use thick curtains
36. Put rugs on the floor
37. If you're going on holiday, turn the thermostat down (but not completely off in order to prevent pipes freezing.) Be thoughtful towards pets: don't turn the heating down if you are leaving them at home.
38. Don't overload the fridge/freezer
39. Only use the dishwasher for a full load.
40. Don't open the oven door too often when cooking food
41. Use the microwave instead of the conventional oven when you can
42. Leave enough space between your fridge and the walls - trapped heat can affect efficiency
43. Decorate with pale colours. This means lower lighting is required.
44. Keep light bulbs clean
45. Go to bed earlier in the summer. This means you will be awake for a smaller portion of the time it's dark, and so will use less electricity.
46. Insulate your hot water pipes
47. Unplug your laptop when the battery is charged to 100%
48. Turn down the brightness setting on your computer so it uses the battery more slowly
49. Put an extra quilt on the bed instead of using an electric blanket/hot water bottle
50. And finally... any of the tips from my article '20 ways to save water' (here: http://goodliving-blog.blogspot.com/2010/07/20-ways-to-save-water.html) will also help save energy, which is used in transporting the water to your taps, and also for heating it up.
Phew. That was tiring. Think I'll have to switch the kettle on and watch a bit of telly...
1. Turn lights off when you leave the room
2. Turn appliances off when you're not using them (don't leave them on standby)
3. Use energy-saving lightbulbs
4. Only charge appliances (such as phones) for as long as they need
5. Don't drive when you can walk/cycle/use public transport
6. Only fill the kettle as much as you need (or have a cold drink)
7. Only use the washing machine when you have a full load
8. NEVER tumble dry - put clothes on the line if it's nice, or use a clothes drier indoors and open the window.
9. Have cooler (and shorter) showers
10. Put a jumper on before you turn the heating on
11. Take a layer off before you put the air conditioning/fan on
12. Turn your thermostat one degree lower
13. If the weather's nice, go to the park instead of watching TV/listening to music/playing computer games
14. Turn your washing machine to 30 degrees (or lower, if it'll let you)
15. Go for a run instead of to the gym
16. Get an energy meter/monitor installed to keep track of how much you're using
17. Invest in energy efficient equipment if you can - such as the boiler, washing machine, dishwasher etc. These things are expensive but save money in the long run.
18. Insulate your loft
19. Get double glazing
20. Don't leave the fridge door open if it's unnecessary
21. Allow food to cool before putting it in the fridge
22. Match the size of the pan to the size of the ring on the hob (this prevents heat from being lost either side of the pan)
23. Open the window before you put the extractor fan on
24. Insulate your hot water tank
25. Fit draught proofing products to your doors, windows and keyholes
26. Accelerate and brake smoothly when driving
27. Switch to a renewable energy company (doesn't necessarily save energy, but it doesn't damage the planet so I'm keeping it in)
28. Don't put furniture in front of radiators as it will block the heat
29. Turn the thermostat on your hot water tank down to 60 degrees
30. Put the plug in the basin when running water (especially hot water)
31. Put a lid on saucepans to stop heat escaping
32. Keep your fridge in a cooler room such as the garage
33. Defrost your freezer regularly
34. Put a mirror opposite a large window - it'll make maximum use of natural light
35. Use thick curtains
36. Put rugs on the floor
37. If you're going on holiday, turn the thermostat down (but not completely off in order to prevent pipes freezing.) Be thoughtful towards pets: don't turn the heating down if you are leaving them at home.
38. Don't overload the fridge/freezer
39. Only use the dishwasher for a full load.
40. Don't open the oven door too often when cooking food
41. Use the microwave instead of the conventional oven when you can
42. Leave enough space between your fridge and the walls - trapped heat can affect efficiency
43. Decorate with pale colours. This means lower lighting is required.
44. Keep light bulbs clean
45. Go to bed earlier in the summer. This means you will be awake for a smaller portion of the time it's dark, and so will use less electricity.
46. Insulate your hot water pipes
47. Unplug your laptop when the battery is charged to 100%
48. Turn down the brightness setting on your computer so it uses the battery more slowly
49. Put an extra quilt on the bed instead of using an electric blanket/hot water bottle
50. And finally... any of the tips from my article '20 ways to save water' (here: http://goodliving-blog.blogspot.com/2010/07/20-ways-to-save-water.html) will also help save energy, which is used in transporting the water to your taps, and also for heating it up.
Phew. That was tiring. Think I'll have to switch the kettle on and watch a bit of telly...
Thursday, 22 July 2010
Random Acts of Kindness
Before I drag myself off to work i just wanted to quickly draw your attention to an utterly fantastic website called 'The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation'.
The idea behind it is simple: by committing small and random acts of kindness for strangers, we nourish not only others but ourselves. A bit pretentious? I really don't think so - in a world dominated by 'how does this benefit me' thinking, anything that promotes doing good things just, well, for the hell of it really, is a fantastic thing by my book.
For more information and ideas for random acts of kindness, please pay a visit to http://www.actsofkindness.org/.
The idea behind it is simple: by committing small and random acts of kindness for strangers, we nourish not only others but ourselves. A bit pretentious? I really don't think so - in a world dominated by 'how does this benefit me' thinking, anything that promotes doing good things just, well, for the hell of it really, is a fantastic thing by my book.
For more information and ideas for random acts of kindness, please pay a visit to http://www.actsofkindness.org/.
Tuesday, 20 July 2010
Green Issues Blog
Just wanted to let you know about a great environmental blog that I stumbled across, which contains both snippets of green advice as well as more analytical posts concerning items of news. If you're interested, you can find it here: http://green-issues.blogspot.com/
Sunday, 18 July 2010
Wake up and smell the (fairtrade) coffee
Ah, coffee.
What would the world be without you?
OK scrap that: what would my world be without coffee? A dark and terrible place, I’m telling you. The working day would probably pass in a sleep-induced haze (either that or I would lose my mind in a fit of withdrawal symptoms).
But what about the world outside my rather limited, caffeine-driven one? How does coffee affect it? You might not think it is very important in the scheme of things.
The fact is that coffee is extremely important – and every time you buy a jar, you are making a decision that could affect millions of vulnerable and marginalised farmers across the world.
How does coffee affect people?
The fact is, traditional coffee trading is deeply unfair.
OK, I know most of us realise this – but how many of us really think about it? Really?
For products that are not fairly traded, there are no standards in place. When you buy such a product, you may be paying for:
- child labour
- sweatshops
- unfair and unstable wages
- exploitation
- damage to the environment
- and a whole lot more.
How many of us want to pay for those things? Not me.
Since 2001, the World Trade Organisation has been holding discussions about how to change the world trade system to benefit the poor. But countries such as mine (the UK), other EU countries and the US (among others) have resisted these changes. This means the growth of the fair trade movement is critical.
So why fair trade?
When you buy a fair trade product, the producer receives not only a fair and stable price, but in many cases a premium to invest in their community. This could go on anything from schools, food, tools, technology, water wells, healthcare and a whole lot more. The fair trade logo also gives a guarantee that social standards are in place, and that coffee production does not adversely affect the environment. It also guarantees producers have not been exploited, and no child labour has been used.
How do you know if a product is fair trade?
Many fair-trade products carry the international Fairtrade Mark, which looks like this:
It is awarded by the Fairtrade Labelling Organisations. Look for it next time you shop. Many fair trade products are the same price, or a little more expensive, than non-fair trade products. Those extra few pennies could make a world of difference.
And trust me – as a coffee fanatic, fair trade coffee tastes every bit as good as the unfairly traded equivalent. Examples of major fair trade brands include:
- Clipper
- Percol
- Cafedirect
- Traidcraft
- Equal Exchange
Most supermarkets stock their own fair-trade coffee, and some supermarkets (for example The Co-Operative and M&S) have the fair-trade logo on their entire stock of own label coffee. Other brands, such as Nescafe, also produce a fair-trade range.
In ’50 Reasons to Buy Fair Trade’ (which you can buy here...
http://www.amazon.co.uk/50-Reasons-Buy-Fair-Trade/dp/074532584X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1279536908&sr=8-1 I do not get any commission for a sale)
... Nicaraguan coffee grower Blanca Rosa Molina is quoted as saying that fair-trade ‘makes the difference between whether my family eats or does not eat.’
For the sake of a simple choice in the supermarket, what reason is there not to buy fair trade?
ARE there any reasons not to buy fair trade?
The fair trade system has received criticism from both ends of the spectrum. Some say that it is an artificial system which impedes growth and could lead to over production, and at the other end, others claim it does not go far enough in protecting vulnerable workers.
My thinking is: the fair trade system is not perfect (nothing ever is), but a world without it, would be a world that accepts brutal and unfair conditions. Just so we can have a cup of coffee in the morning.
I don’t want to be part of a world like that. Who would?
Martin Luther King is credited with saying:
‘When we arise in the morning... at the table we drink coffee which is provided for us by a South American, or tea by a Chinese, or cocoa by a West African; before we leave for our jobs we are already beholden to half the world.’
We are beholden to half the world. I truly believe we are forever indebted to the poor of the world; it is the unfair balancing of the trading system which means we in the west can live the luxurious lifestyles we do.
So next time you’re in the supermarket – take a minute to browse the shelves, take a minute to consider where your coffee is coming from, and who you could benefit with your choice.
It could be the most important thing you do all day.
What would the world be without you?
OK scrap that: what would my world be without coffee? A dark and terrible place, I’m telling you. The working day would probably pass in a sleep-induced haze (either that or I would lose my mind in a fit of withdrawal symptoms).
But what about the world outside my rather limited, caffeine-driven one? How does coffee affect it? You might not think it is very important in the scheme of things.
The fact is that coffee is extremely important – and every time you buy a jar, you are making a decision that could affect millions of vulnerable and marginalised farmers across the world.
How does coffee affect people?
The fact is, traditional coffee trading is deeply unfair.
OK, I know most of us realise this – but how many of us really think about it? Really?
For products that are not fairly traded, there are no standards in place. When you buy such a product, you may be paying for:
- child labour
- sweatshops
- unfair and unstable wages
- exploitation
- damage to the environment
- and a whole lot more.
How many of us want to pay for those things? Not me.
Since 2001, the World Trade Organisation has been holding discussions about how to change the world trade system to benefit the poor. But countries such as mine (the UK), other EU countries and the US (among others) have resisted these changes. This means the growth of the fair trade movement is critical.
So why fair trade?
When you buy a fair trade product, the producer receives not only a fair and stable price, but in many cases a premium to invest in their community. This could go on anything from schools, food, tools, technology, water wells, healthcare and a whole lot more. The fair trade logo also gives a guarantee that social standards are in place, and that coffee production does not adversely affect the environment. It also guarantees producers have not been exploited, and no child labour has been used.
How do you know if a product is fair trade?
Many fair-trade products carry the international Fairtrade Mark, which looks like this:
It is awarded by the Fairtrade Labelling Organisations. Look for it next time you shop. Many fair trade products are the same price, or a little more expensive, than non-fair trade products. Those extra few pennies could make a world of difference.
And trust me – as a coffee fanatic, fair trade coffee tastes every bit as good as the unfairly traded equivalent. Examples of major fair trade brands include:
- Clipper
- Percol
- Cafedirect
- Traidcraft
- Equal Exchange
Most supermarkets stock their own fair-trade coffee, and some supermarkets (for example The Co-Operative and M&S) have the fair-trade logo on their entire stock of own label coffee. Other brands, such as Nescafe, also produce a fair-trade range.
In ’50 Reasons to Buy Fair Trade’ (which you can buy here...
http://www.amazon.co.uk/50-Reasons-Buy-Fair-Trade/dp/074532584X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1279536908&sr=8-1 I do not get any commission for a sale)
... Nicaraguan coffee grower Blanca Rosa Molina is quoted as saying that fair-trade ‘makes the difference between whether my family eats or does not eat.’
For the sake of a simple choice in the supermarket, what reason is there not to buy fair trade?
ARE there any reasons not to buy fair trade?
The fair trade system has received criticism from both ends of the spectrum. Some say that it is an artificial system which impedes growth and could lead to over production, and at the other end, others claim it does not go far enough in protecting vulnerable workers.
My thinking is: the fair trade system is not perfect (nothing ever is), but a world without it, would be a world that accepts brutal and unfair conditions. Just so we can have a cup of coffee in the morning.
I don’t want to be part of a world like that. Who would?
Martin Luther King is credited with saying:
‘When we arise in the morning... at the table we drink coffee which is provided for us by a South American, or tea by a Chinese, or cocoa by a West African; before we leave for our jobs we are already beholden to half the world.’
We are beholden to half the world. I truly believe we are forever indebted to the poor of the world; it is the unfair balancing of the trading system which means we in the west can live the luxurious lifestyles we do.
So next time you’re in the supermarket – take a minute to browse the shelves, take a minute to consider where your coffee is coming from, and who you could benefit with your choice.
It could be the most important thing you do all day.
Friday, 16 July 2010
London!
Just to let you know, I'm away for a couple of days in London so my next post will probably be some time on Monday (if I'm not recovering from my hangover...)
Thursday, 15 July 2010
Be green at work
10 ways to be green at work
I'm going to assume, like me, you are a lowly commuting employee, rather than the owner of a business or someone with real input into the company's environmental management system . If you are the owner of a business, an entirely different post is required (something which I intend to look into at some point.)
However, my fellow dogsbodies, there is plenty you can do to make your experience at work an altogether greener one.
1. Commute by foot / bike / public transport / car share. An obvious one, but overlooked by many. Your environmentally friendly day can start before you've even arrived.
2. Once you arrive at work, use your own mug for tea and coffee - rather than disposable plastic ones. Unelss you absoltuely can't go without your caffeine kick (like me, sadly), try having a cool drink instead.
3. Turn off lights when you leave the room. Well, duh.
4. Don't print emails unless you absolutely have to. If you need to show an email to another member of staff, forward it on. Put a line in your email signature saying 'please do not print unless absolutely necessary.'
5. Surround your desk with plants - this helps remove toxins from the air and generally create a pleasant working atmosphere.
6. Turn taps off tightly when you have finished using them, and turn any off that you see dripping.
7. Switch off your computer monitor when you are not using it (even if you are just nipping out).
8. Use paper that has been printed on as scrap paper. Similarly recycle lever arch files, archive boxes, file dividers, and anything else you can possibly re-use!
9. Make that trip to the recycling bin. Many offices these days have a central paper recycling facility. While some workers are lucky enough to have recycling bins under their desks (I have worked in one such place), most places require you to get up and walk. So: even if the temptation of putting it in the bin under your desk is difficult to resist, get up and make that walk. You'll feel better, I promise.
10. And finally (if management will allow it) put a jumper on before you turn on that heater; and take it off before you turn on that fan. Electrical temperature manipulators should always be a last resort - that's what clothes were invented for!
GUILTY CONFESSION: I do not keep to all these. Sometimes, in a bad mood, I might screw up some paper and toss it in the bin under my desk. Or I accidentally leave my computer on standby. I'm only human (aren't we all).
So now we've got that out of the way... what other ideas do you have?
I'm going to assume, like me, you are a lowly commuting employee, rather than the owner of a business or someone with real input into the company's environmental management system . If you are the owner of a business, an entirely different post is required (something which I intend to look into at some point.)
However, my fellow dogsbodies, there is plenty you can do to make your experience at work an altogether greener one.
1. Commute by foot / bike / public transport / car share. An obvious one, but overlooked by many. Your environmentally friendly day can start before you've even arrived.
2. Once you arrive at work, use your own mug for tea and coffee - rather than disposable plastic ones. Unelss you absoltuely can't go without your caffeine kick (like me, sadly), try having a cool drink instead.
3. Turn off lights when you leave the room. Well, duh.
4. Don't print emails unless you absolutely have to. If you need to show an email to another member of staff, forward it on. Put a line in your email signature saying 'please do not print unless absolutely necessary.'
5. Surround your desk with plants - this helps remove toxins from the air and generally create a pleasant working atmosphere.
6. Turn taps off tightly when you have finished using them, and turn any off that you see dripping.
7. Switch off your computer monitor when you are not using it (even if you are just nipping out).
8. Use paper that has been printed on as scrap paper. Similarly recycle lever arch files, archive boxes, file dividers, and anything else you can possibly re-use!
9. Make that trip to the recycling bin. Many offices these days have a central paper recycling facility. While some workers are lucky enough to have recycling bins under their desks (I have worked in one such place), most places require you to get up and walk. So: even if the temptation of putting it in the bin under your desk is difficult to resist, get up and make that walk. You'll feel better, I promise.
10. And finally (if management will allow it) put a jumper on before you turn on that heater; and take it off before you turn on that fan. Electrical temperature manipulators should always be a last resort - that's what clothes were invented for!
GUILTY CONFESSION: I do not keep to all these. Sometimes, in a bad mood, I might screw up some paper and toss it in the bin under my desk. Or I accidentally leave my computer on standby. I'm only human (aren't we all).
So now we've got that out of the way... what other ideas do you have?
Wednesday, 14 July 2010
Spotlight on charity: Amnesty International
One thing I want to do from time to time is focus on a particular charity which is close to my heart. I will give a few details, explain why I think it is important and give information on how to donate / help in other ways.
Today I want to look at Amnesty International, a British human rights charity.
The phrase 'Human Rights' has a stigma attached for many people (thanks to certain tabloid newspapers which will remain nameless!) but if you strip away the stigma, what it means is protecting the basic rights that everyone on the planet has, whether they know it or not.
Amnesty International operates in two ways: by conducting research, and promoting action and mobilisation among ordinary people to prevent and end violations of human rights.
They often focus on individual cases - for example, they put pressure on governments to release political prisoners, or to end torture, to ensure a fair trial or to prevent the death penalty.
In my opinion they are the last life line for people all over the world who face situations most of us can't even imagine. They are the thorn in the foot of tyrannical dictators the world over and they must be supported in their work.
Just remember the phrase 'There but for the grace of God (or fate) go I...'
If you want to help - either by signing a petition, sending a letter or making a donation - please visit their website at http://www.amnesty.org.uk/content.asp?CategoryID=10009
Thanks.
Today I want to look at Amnesty International, a British human rights charity.
The phrase 'Human Rights' has a stigma attached for many people (thanks to certain tabloid newspapers which will remain nameless!) but if you strip away the stigma, what it means is protecting the basic rights that everyone on the planet has, whether they know it or not.
Amnesty International operates in two ways: by conducting research, and promoting action and mobilisation among ordinary people to prevent and end violations of human rights.
They often focus on individual cases - for example, they put pressure on governments to release political prisoners, or to end torture, to ensure a fair trial or to prevent the death penalty.
In my opinion they are the last life line for people all over the world who face situations most of us can't even imagine. They are the thorn in the foot of tyrannical dictators the world over and they must be supported in their work.
Just remember the phrase 'There but for the grace of God (or fate) go I...'
If you want to help - either by signing a petition, sending a letter or making a donation - please visit their website at http://www.amnesty.org.uk/content.asp?CategoryID=10009
Thanks.
Tuesday, 13 July 2010
20 Ways to Save Water
...and energy... and money
Due to climate change, and a growing population, we are using more water than the environment can cope with. Not only this, but the treatment and transport of water to our taps is using energy, which contributes to climate change.
We all know we need to use less water - not just for environmental reasons, but to save a few pennies in this tough economic climate - but how? Here are a few ideas I've come across...
1. Check for leaks in the house - just imagine how much water you are wasting if a drop of water comes out of a leak every five seconds (I once had a leak under the sink which filled a pint glass every few hours).
2. Put a bottle full of sand/water into the cistern to reduce the amount of water used with each flush
3. Buy a water butt to collect rain water from the roof, and use it to water the plants / wash outside areas / wash the car
4. Shower instead of having a bath
5. Talking of showers, make them short. Wet yourself, then turn the shower off; lather up, then rinse it off.
6. Don't leave the tap running when brushing your teeth / washing your face
7. Always make sure the washing machine has a full load before turning it on
8. Leave a bottle of chilled water in the fridge so you don't have to run the tap cold (especially with this hot weather!)
9. When washing dishes, don't let the water run - only use it for rinsing
10. Don't flush rubbish (such as face wipes) down the toilet
11. Fill the kettle for only as much as you need (try filling the cup first and pouring it into the kettle)
12. Use buckets and a sponge to wash your car, not a hose
13. Choose water efficient washing machines and dish washers
14. Water your plants when it's cooler (eg the evening) so water is not lost through evaporation. Also choose drier plants that do not need as much water, and do not over-water them.
15. Start mowing the lawn so it is an inch or two higher: this helps retain water
16. Collect the water used for rinsing vegetables, and use it to water house plants
17. Cut down on your washing up by using one glass throughout the day, or refilling a water bottle. Also refill mugs for tea and coffee etc.
18. Turn off taps tightly after use - and teach your kids to do the same
19. Find out where the master water shut off valve for your house is located - in the case of a burst pipe, or serious leak, this could save a huge amount of water and money (I know this from experience - let's just say i didn't know where the valve was, and one flooded kitchen later, now I do...)
20. Finally, so you have any idea of how much water you are using (and can start to save money) have a meter installed, and only pay for the amount you use (rather than a set amount). Contact your water supplier for information on how to do this.
If you have any more ideas, do let me know!
Due to climate change, and a growing population, we are using more water than the environment can cope with. Not only this, but the treatment and transport of water to our taps is using energy, which contributes to climate change.
We all know we need to use less water - not just for environmental reasons, but to save a few pennies in this tough economic climate - but how? Here are a few ideas I've come across...
1. Check for leaks in the house - just imagine how much water you are wasting if a drop of water comes out of a leak every five seconds (I once had a leak under the sink which filled a pint glass every few hours).
2. Put a bottle full of sand/water into the cistern to reduce the amount of water used with each flush
3. Buy a water butt to collect rain water from the roof, and use it to water the plants / wash outside areas / wash the car
4. Shower instead of having a bath
5. Talking of showers, make them short. Wet yourself, then turn the shower off; lather up, then rinse it off.
6. Don't leave the tap running when brushing your teeth / washing your face
7. Always make sure the washing machine has a full load before turning it on
8. Leave a bottle of chilled water in the fridge so you don't have to run the tap cold (especially with this hot weather!)
9. When washing dishes, don't let the water run - only use it for rinsing
10. Don't flush rubbish (such as face wipes) down the toilet
11. Fill the kettle for only as much as you need (try filling the cup first and pouring it into the kettle)
12. Use buckets and a sponge to wash your car, not a hose
13. Choose water efficient washing machines and dish washers
14. Water your plants when it's cooler (eg the evening) so water is not lost through evaporation. Also choose drier plants that do not need as much water, and do not over-water them.
15. Start mowing the lawn so it is an inch or two higher: this helps retain water
16. Collect the water used for rinsing vegetables, and use it to water house plants
17. Cut down on your washing up by using one glass throughout the day, or refilling a water bottle. Also refill mugs for tea and coffee etc.
18. Turn off taps tightly after use - and teach your kids to do the same
19. Find out where the master water shut off valve for your house is located - in the case of a burst pipe, or serious leak, this could save a huge amount of water and money (I know this from experience - let's just say i didn't know where the valve was, and one flooded kitchen later, now I do...)
20. Finally, so you have any idea of how much water you are using (and can start to save money) have a meter installed, and only pay for the amount you use (rather than a set amount). Contact your water supplier for information on how to do this.
If you have any more ideas, do let me know!
Monday, 12 July 2010
Staples in paper recycling: OK or not?
I recently had an argument (well heated discussion) with somebody about whether it is OK to leave staples in paper before putting it into the recycling bin. I thought it was fine; she thought it was bad etiquette and just gave the good folks at the recycling plant more work to do.
Well, after some research, I have discovered the truth.
It is, in fact, fine to leave staples in. During the recycling process, paper is reduced to a mushy pulp and a strong magnet is used to pluck out staples and other bits of metal.
So there is no need to sit ripping all the corners off millions of bits of paper.
Now, I will go and glow in my self righteousness... :-)
Well, after some research, I have discovered the truth.
It is, in fact, fine to leave staples in. During the recycling process, paper is reduced to a mushy pulp and a strong magnet is used to pluck out staples and other bits of metal.
So there is no need to sit ripping all the corners off millions of bits of paper.
Now, I will go and glow in my self righteousness... :-)
Sunday, 11 July 2010
Potential badger cull: what's your view?
I was reading today about the badger cull that may be taking place in Wales imminently. The Badger Trust has launched an appeal against this, and the Welsh Assembly will consider it next week.
Initially, I thought the whole idea of the cull was horrific. And, if the level of protest is anything to go by, a lot of people feel the same.
Most farmers, however, believe that the cull is necessary.
This is because of ramptant TB (tuberculosis) among cattle, a chief cause of which is badgers (or so it is claimed). In order to manage this crisis, farmers say there needs to be a drastic and immediate cull of badgers.
So what's your view? As far as I can see, the argument can be divided as follows:
Reasons for the cull:
I think the problem with this is that badgers have a sort of 'cuddly' image, which make it hard to be objective. But at the same time, a decision to start deliberately culling a species should never be taken lightly.
Me - I'm uncertain about this. I would have to do a lot more research before I could make a decision. But I'd be interested to know what anyone else thinks.
Initially, I thought the whole idea of the cull was horrific. And, if the level of protest is anything to go by, a lot of people feel the same.
Most farmers, however, believe that the cull is necessary.
This is because of ramptant TB (tuberculosis) among cattle, a chief cause of which is badgers (or so it is claimed). In order to manage this crisis, farmers say there needs to be a drastic and immediate cull of badgers.
So what's your view? As far as I can see, the argument can be divided as follows:
Reasons for the cull:
- cattle have as much right to live as badgers
- once the epidemic has been brought uner control, the badger population can be allowed to flourish again
- the death of cattle has a knock on effect - it can infect the entire herd, which can be financially devastating to farmers
- those badgers that remain after the cull would be healthier, and the level of TB among both badgers and cattle would be reduced
- It may ruin the reputation of north Pembrokeshire (where the cull is due to take place) for being a haven for wildlife
- There may be other options such as vaccinating badgers
- The depth of feeling may divide the community and create an ongoing conflict
- Some (including the RSPCA) claim that the threat from badgers is minimal, and they are being used as a scapegoat
I think the problem with this is that badgers have a sort of 'cuddly' image, which make it hard to be objective. But at the same time, a decision to start deliberately culling a species should never be taken lightly.
Me - I'm uncertain about this. I would have to do a lot more research before I could make a decision. But I'd be interested to know what anyone else thinks.
The Big Issue
I’ve been focusing on environmental issues so far (as an environmental student I have to admit to a special interest in environmental topics) but I wanted to branch away for today to another topic I am interested in: homelessness.
It’s an extraordinarily broad and complex subject that I couldn’t possibly scratch the surface of in one post (or even several). So I wanted to take a look specifically at The Big Issue.
For anyone who doesn’t know, the Big Issue is a magazine that is bought by homeless people and sold on the street for a profit.
In my opinion it is one of the best social business initiatives ever embarked upon and helps bridge that gap between homelessness and reintegration into society.
The problem is usually that you can’t get a job without an address, but you can’t get an address without a job. So selling the Big Issue provides that vital mid step of earning an income and gaining self respect. Without it, there would be little to do for homeless people other than beg – and I can’t begin to imagine what a miserable existence that would be.
So what I want to know is: how often do people buy the Big Issue? And if you don’t, do you acknowledge the vendor or hurry on past? (I’m not judging – everyone has to make their own decisions regarding these things.)
Also, if you have bought it, what do you think of the content? The Big Issue has been criticised for being too commercial in content and appearance, but in my opinion, the better the magazine is, the more people will want to buy it – and who can argue with that?
Finally, before I go, if you want to make a donation to the Big Issue Foundation (which helps homeless people find their feet, obtain housing and generally reintegrate into society) you can donate here: http://www.bigissue.com/Support_Us_7.php
Or if you want to do one thing today that helps another person, spend a couple of quid by buying The Big Issue. Not only will it help someone in ways most of us cannot imagine, I promise you it'll give you a warm glow.
Thanks for your time :)
It’s an extraordinarily broad and complex subject that I couldn’t possibly scratch the surface of in one post (or even several). So I wanted to take a look specifically at The Big Issue.
For anyone who doesn’t know, the Big Issue is a magazine that is bought by homeless people and sold on the street for a profit.
In my opinion it is one of the best social business initiatives ever embarked upon and helps bridge that gap between homelessness and reintegration into society.
The problem is usually that you can’t get a job without an address, but you can’t get an address without a job. So selling the Big Issue provides that vital mid step of earning an income and gaining self respect. Without it, there would be little to do for homeless people other than beg – and I can’t begin to imagine what a miserable existence that would be.
So what I want to know is: how often do people buy the Big Issue? And if you don’t, do you acknowledge the vendor or hurry on past? (I’m not judging – everyone has to make their own decisions regarding these things.)
Also, if you have bought it, what do you think of the content? The Big Issue has been criticised for being too commercial in content and appearance, but in my opinion, the better the magazine is, the more people will want to buy it – and who can argue with that?
Finally, before I go, if you want to make a donation to the Big Issue Foundation (which helps homeless people find their feet, obtain housing and generally reintegrate into society) you can donate here: http://www.bigissue.com/Support_Us_7.php
Or if you want to do one thing today that helps another person, spend a couple of quid by buying The Big Issue. Not only will it help someone in ways most of us cannot imagine, I promise you it'll give you a warm glow.
Thanks for your time :)
The Environment Site
Just wanted to let you know about a great forum I've just discovered called 'The Environment Site' http://www.theenvironmentsite.org/ which has an amazing wealth of topics from recycling to GM crops, so it might be worth checking out for anyone who's interested in green issues.
Saturday, 10 July 2010
How can we reduce food waste?
A quick follow up...
I've been reading over my posts so far and realised I've got off to a rather downbeat start. Of course there are plenty of depressing things to focus on, but I'm sure anyone visiting this forum also wants to know how they can help as well as what's wrong in the first place.
So as a follow up to my post 'What's wrong with waste?' I want to give a few thoughts on how to cut down.
In my experience, there are many simple ways to reduce waste, and most of them start in the supermarket. Try planning the week’s meals and writing a list of ingredients - this can help avoid impulse purchases which only end up in the bin.
Also bear in mind the difference between ‘best-before’ and ‘use-by’ – best-before dates are just a guide and food is usually in an acceptable condition for some time after this date. Try and avoid ‘2-for-1’ offers unless you would genuinely buy and eat two of them without the offer.
When buying fruit and vegetables, consider buying those with an odd shape; there is a good chance no one else will buy these ones, so snapping them up can help reduce supermarket waste.
Finally, we’ve heard it before but try not to shop on an empty stomach, which can make the most unlikely items seem appealing. Shop when you are full, with your sensible head on. It’ll save you time, money and maybe a few inches off your waist.
Once the food is home, make a mental (or physical) note of what is in the fridge so forgotten items don’t rot in the back.
Freeze what you can: most foods will keep almost indefinitely this way (but regularly check what’s in there). Plan to have meals involving easily-perishable goods (such as salad) early in the week and save frozen meals until everything in the fridge has gone.
Finally, as nice as it is, try not to eat out too often. Restaurants often serve enormous portions which end up going to waste.
Hmmm... I've just checked my fridge and found a couple of mouldy peppers in the back. Oops.
I've been reading over my posts so far and realised I've got off to a rather downbeat start. Of course there are plenty of depressing things to focus on, but I'm sure anyone visiting this forum also wants to know how they can help as well as what's wrong in the first place.
So as a follow up to my post 'What's wrong with waste?' I want to give a few thoughts on how to cut down.
In my experience, there are many simple ways to reduce waste, and most of them start in the supermarket. Try planning the week’s meals and writing a list of ingredients - this can help avoid impulse purchases which only end up in the bin.
Also bear in mind the difference between ‘best-before’ and ‘use-by’ – best-before dates are just a guide and food is usually in an acceptable condition for some time after this date. Try and avoid ‘2-for-1’ offers unless you would genuinely buy and eat two of them without the offer.
When buying fruit and vegetables, consider buying those with an odd shape; there is a good chance no one else will buy these ones, so snapping them up can help reduce supermarket waste.
Finally, we’ve heard it before but try not to shop on an empty stomach, which can make the most unlikely items seem appealing. Shop when you are full, with your sensible head on. It’ll save you time, money and maybe a few inches off your waist.
Once the food is home, make a mental (or physical) note of what is in the fridge so forgotten items don’t rot in the back.
Freeze what you can: most foods will keep almost indefinitely this way (but regularly check what’s in there). Plan to have meals involving easily-perishable goods (such as salad) early in the week and save frozen meals until everything in the fridge has gone.
Finally, as nice as it is, try not to eat out too often. Restaurants often serve enormous portions which end up going to waste.
Hmmm... I've just checked my fridge and found a couple of mouldy peppers in the back. Oops.
Friday, 9 July 2010
What's wrong with wasting food?
When I was little, my mum would tell me not to waste food because of 'all the starving children in the world'. I have to admit, I was baffled by this logic; I wondered how the starving children benefitted from my dinner being in my stomach as opposed to the bin.
After some research, however, I can see that she was actually right about this (I can almost hear her saying, 'Mum knows best!')
Due to the fact that we operate in a global market, any food we buy is literally taken away from those who need it the most. And if we continually buy more than we can eat, we are wasting food that could have been eaten by the world's poor.
This is obviously a simplistic look at a complex situation, but the fact remains that a criminal amount of food is wasted in the west.
Consider this:
- According to WRAP (the Waste and Resources Action Programme) nearly 8.3million tonnes of food are thrown away in the UK every year (the weight of 1,137 Eiffel Towers!)
- The average family loses over £420 per year as a result of wasted food
- According to the Love Food Hate Waste campaign (http://www.lovefoodhatewaste.com/) if food waste was eliminated it would be the equivalent of taking 1 in 4 cars off the road
- Finally (last statistic, I promise), according to the Food Ethics Council, eliminating food waste could lift almost a billion people out of hunger.
Food for thought, eh?
So the next time someone asks you what's wrong with wasting food (or you even wonder yourself), just think of these reasons.
Furthermore, cutting down on food waste can help us save a packet - and who can argue with that?
After some research, however, I can see that she was actually right about this (I can almost hear her saying, 'Mum knows best!')
Due to the fact that we operate in a global market, any food we buy is literally taken away from those who need it the most. And if we continually buy more than we can eat, we are wasting food that could have been eaten by the world's poor.
This is obviously a simplistic look at a complex situation, but the fact remains that a criminal amount of food is wasted in the west.
Consider this:
- According to WRAP (the Waste and Resources Action Programme) nearly 8.3million tonnes of food are thrown away in the UK every year (the weight of 1,137 Eiffel Towers!)
- The average family loses over £420 per year as a result of wasted food
- According to the Love Food Hate Waste campaign (http://www.lovefoodhatewaste.com/) if food waste was eliminated it would be the equivalent of taking 1 in 4 cars off the road
- Finally (last statistic, I promise), according to the Food Ethics Council, eliminating food waste could lift almost a billion people out of hunger.
Food for thought, eh?
So the next time someone asks you what's wrong with wasting food (or you even wonder yourself), just think of these reasons.
Furthermore, cutting down on food waste can help us save a packet - and who can argue with that?
Hello :)
We'd all like to do a bit more. Be a bit greener, a bit more socially aware, a bit more ethical, a bit kinder. But most of us know we don't do enough - I'll be the first to hold up my hands and say I can be lazy and dare I say it (I'll whisper it instead) a bit selfish.
But aren't we all?
How many of us can say we always put the third world first, or the environment, or the homeless? How many of us do something for someone else every day? Plenty, I'm sure. And those people have my endless admiration. But for the rest of us, we want to do more, but let's face it, we want to enjoy our lives too.
So I've set up this blog. It's mainly a place for me to put down my incoherent ramblings, but hopefully other people will find it valuable too. Hopefully it will become a welcoming, inclusive community for people who care about the world, and we can share tips for leading a more ethical life (and maybe have a bit of banter at the same time).
I'm certainly no expert. This will be a learning experience for me as well as anyone else who reads this. Please feel free to leave any comments and I will always try and reply.
But aren't we all?
How many of us can say we always put the third world first, or the environment, or the homeless? How many of us do something for someone else every day? Plenty, I'm sure. And those people have my endless admiration. But for the rest of us, we want to do more, but let's face it, we want to enjoy our lives too.
So I've set up this blog. It's mainly a place for me to put down my incoherent ramblings, but hopefully other people will find it valuable too. Hopefully it will become a welcoming, inclusive community for people who care about the world, and we can share tips for leading a more ethical life (and maybe have a bit of banter at the same time).
I'm certainly no expert. This will be a learning experience for me as well as anyone else who reads this. Please feel free to leave any comments and I will always try and reply.
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