Permaculture Out West

Archive for November, 2009

Beans, baby beets, beetroot, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, Chinese greens, cucumber, eggplant, kale, kohlrabi, lettuce, spring onions, parsnip, potatoes, pumpkin, radish, rhubarb crowns, silverbeet, squash, sweet corn, tomato, watermelon, zucchini.

Herbs: basil, fennel, nasturtium, parsley, salad burnet.

IN THIS EDITION

GREEN ACTION NEWS
Issue 9, Spring/Summer 2009
In this edition:
* A brand new look and new website, but still the same old Environment
Victoria
* Happy Birthday! Victorians still changing their world, 40 years on
* Our new Green Action campaign gears up
* At last! A federal renewable energy target
* A win for northern rivers
* Reaping the rewards of sustainable living
And much more
Click here to download the Spring/Summer 2009 edition

Vicki Kyriakakis
Communications Coordinator
Environment Victoria

I believe we’re changing the world, one Green Action at a time. Are you in?

DIRECT: (03) 9341 8125 MOBILE: 0421 761 943
RECEPTION: (03) 9341 8100 FAX: (03) 9341 8199

STREET ADDRESS: Level 2, 60 Leicester Street, Carlton, Victoria 3053
POST: PO Box 12575, A’Beckett Street, Carlton, Victoria 8006

Environment Victoria is mobilising 5 million people to take Green Action.

So what do you say? Are you in?
www.environmentvictoria.org.au

http://www.vision6.com.au/em/mail/view.php?id=1647617964&k=f935b69″>

Klimaforum09 Newsletter # 4,
24th of November

Climate collaboration for the future

Thousands of people and organisations will soon be descending on Copenhagen for the climate summit, some at COP15, others at Klimaforum09.

As the politicians and their advisers struggle to reach important agreements, the rest of society has the opportunity to ensure that what needs to be done is done, in support of political leadership and independent of the political outcome. In this context, Klimaforum is teaming up with the 2020 Climate Leadership Campaign to facilitate coherent, fast, follow-through action.

Many organisations and communities today are working for a sustainable future. Each has its own perspective, focus, goals and resources. In order to make the impact we all want to make, it is essential that we begin to see who holds which piece of the puzzle, that we make the existing solutions visible and that we focus our creativity and commitment on the things matter most. By working in alignment, the effectiveness of all of our work can be greatly magnified.

With so many people and initiatives coalescing in Copenhagen at this moment in time, the climate change movement has the opportunity to take a leap ahead in coherence, collaboration and synergy and to speak and act with unity and clarity both nationally and globally.

Supporting Coherent Action in Copenhagen and Beyond is the Climate Solutions Meshwork, through which you can exchange knowledge, develop climate action relationships and share resources which means you will be able to make a much greater impact. To learn more about the meshwork, contact: meshwork@klimaforum.org

Elementary school, deliver us from evil

The Elements are the young superheroes of Klimaforum09. To save humanity from the destructive plans of the evil Dr. Ego, Gaia, Windy, Solar Boy and H2Otto take up the fight against Coalman, Gazolina, Mr. Voltage and Consuma Excess. Follow the action at the world wide wide and see how it all ends at Klimaforum09…
Follow the Elements at www.klimaforum09.org and on Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/user/homeoftheelements

From Shanghai Post to CNN and New York Times

The forum is subject to huge media interest. The Klimaforum09 press team is in contact with journalist and editors from all over the world. Both electronic and print media are showing considerable interest in covering the forum, hopefully conveying the many stories and perspectives on climate change found among the participants.

The forum will have a press centre with workstations and wireless internet for journalists to work from. It will also be possible for participating organizations and groups to set up press conferences in the Klimaforum09 press centre. A booking system will be up an running soon. In the meantime please contact Press Coordinator Thomas Bækgaard at thomas@klimaforum09.org

Programme prepared for publication

A youthful team of volunteers lead by newcomer editor Lisbeth Urfe has been structuring the material for the colourful printed version of the Klimaforum09 programme.

The printed programme will provide a free, handy overlook of the 300 plus purposeful and enjoyable events that await Klimaforum09 attendants this December. Soon the printed version of the programme will be made available to our guests through distribution in cafés, hotels, shops etc. Any future changes made in the programme can be seen in the daily updated web version:

http://www.klimaforum09.org/Programme

Chill out at the climate cinema

The programme covers a variety of cultural events, including a number of entertaining and thought-provoking films. Take your buddy to see The Age Of Stupid, a futuristic film in which Pete Postlethwaite ponders about why we didn’t act on climate change, while we had the chance. Or bring your kin on a trip around the world with the ocean acidification documentary A Sea Change. Check out the web version of the programme for more info on films showing at Klimaforrum09: http://www.klimaforum09.org/Programme

Take the red pill

Read draft one of the declaration, which is now ready for launch. The purpose of the declaration is to deliver a positive and forward looking document illuminating the need for change on all levels: the individual level, the local, regional and the systemic, global level. The main purpose of the declaration is to become a cornerstone in the foundation of a movement of movements beyond Copenhagen working actively for a sustainable future. Go see draft one at: www.klimaforum09.org/Draft-from-declaration-process-and

Raindrops in the drought

The funding pool for transportation and accommodation of Klimaforrum09 participants from the Global South is empty. The means have been allocated, and we are funding 82 participants from a number of organizations that will be arranging workshops at Klimaforum09. Regrettably, we have only been able to fund a fraction of the applicants.

Weathering through

The registration deadline for visa invitation letters has expired. The Klimaforum09 visa unit has been working overtime for the past month, processing some 500 applications for visa invitation letters from participants from countries that require visa. Up ahead, further correspondence awaits visa coordinator Lærke Carlsen and her tireless twosome of volunteer helpers as hopeful Klimaforrum09 participants receive answers from consulates and embassies.

A rejuvenating tour around Copenhagen

Experience Copenhagen presented by Danish students!

Local high school students with a special interest in global agendas would like to show you their perspective on their city and culture. They offer an alternative version of Copenhagen in exchange for a dialogue on cultural differences.

The tours will depart from the DGI-byen conference centre on Monday December 7th at 12 pm and will have a duration of approximately two hours. Sign up here: studenttours@klimaforum09.org before December 1st, 2009.

The student City walks include:

Copenhagen Classic: A traditional tour of some of Copenhagen’s most well-known sights, with a focus on culture and history.
Copenhagen with a twist: A tour around some less traditional sights – for example locally on Vesterbro.
Copenhagen Climate tour: A tour which focuses on climate and Copenhagen as a sustainable city.

Be all you can be
We need more supervisors and volunteers.
The supervisors are the pivotal points of our volunteers organisation, and will be leading our Force of volunteers in the field. New Klimaforum09 jackets will keep our supervisors warm and visible during the summit. Supervisors must be prepared to work for at least 40 hours during the summit and be ready to coordinate and lead the groups of volunteers. If you would like to become a supervisor or know someone who might, send an email to: asmund@klimaforum09.org

450 of the 850 volunteers needed have already joined us, and about 20 new volunteers are registering every day.

If things continue according to plan, the number registering will increase during the last week, as we will intensify the mobilisation of volunteers.

If you have an email network, through which you can forward the latest volunteer’s newsletter, you will be helping us a great deal.

Please send an email to: lisbeth.urfe@klimaforum09.org, describing briefly, in 10 words or so, your network, and we will send you the latest newsletter.

Sign up for volunteer work at http://klimaforum09.org/Volunteer

Linguists, look no further

We need more Danish volunteer interpreters. Klimaforrum09 is a unique chance to be working with professional interpreters during an international event of great significance. Boost your resume and help facilitate the communication when the world’s focus is fixed on Denmark. If you are fluent in Danish and English or French, and have any simultaneous interpretation experience, we need you. For further information and to volunteer for interpretation at the summit, please contact yours truly, Tobias, at: interpretation@klimaforum09.org.

Get the latest info on Facebook and Twitter

If your are interested in getting the latest news from your climate conference, join us on Facebook and Twitter. We regularly bring news stories and updates on both platforms. Follow the links below to become fan or follower.

Facebook

Twitter

Contact Klimaforum09

Kulturstaldene, Onkel Dannys Plads 1
DK-1711 Copenhagen V
Denmark

E-mail: klimaforum09@klimaforum09.org

Phone: +45 33 253 253

THE OFFICIAL WEEKLY E-NEWS OF THE GREENPAGES ISSUE NUMBER 110 | NOVEMBER 2009

NEWS EVENTS PRODUCTS TIPS

HEALTH – More Mozzies Needed To Eliminate Malaria?

A new approach in the battle to eliminate malaria could see the deliberate release of more mosquitoes.With climate change threatening to expand the ecosystems where malaria flourishes, some kind of mosquito controls are needed. Insecticides only kill a percentage of the disease-carrying mosquitoes they target and they leave behind a population of mosquitoes that’s potentially resistant to them. A new study offers a novel alternative. Read more

PRODUCT – Earth Greetings

For every ‘Peace On Earth’ Christmas card pack Earth Greetings sell, a donation of $1.65 is made to Trees For Life to plant one tree. Peace On Earth Christmas cards are printed carbon neutral, in Australia, with vegetable ink on 100% post-consumer recycled paper and they come with unbleached 100% post-consumer recycled envelopes. Click for more

TECHNOLOGY – The Green IT eBook

The Australian Information Industry Association (AIIA) has developed Australia’s most comprehensive and current industry resource on Green IT. It reflects a commitment from AIIA and the Australian Technology industry to engage closely with the business community on the transformational role of ICT – working together to fashion a low carbon economy. Read more

EVENT – Brisbane Walk Against Warming

On Saturday 12th December, concerts and rallies will be held in cities around the world to promote the need for a safe climate agreement at the UN Climate Change Meeting in Copenhagen. Brisbane’s Walk Against Warming! event will unite people across Brisbane through the opportunity to walk against warming together and then enjoy a concert in King George Square with top entertainers and speakers. Read more

SPORT – America’s First Green Pro Sports Team

The newly re-branded Maryland Greenhawks have gone green, changing their name, attracting green-friendly sponsors like Honest Tea and Sweet Green and CarbonFund.org, and are promising a bamboo court, hemp nets and uniforms made from either recycled plastic or recycled bamboo. Read more.

NEWS – Airbus ‘Sharklets’ Take A Bite Out Of Fuel Burn

Airbus unveiled a much-anticipated advance to its A320 family this week when it launched a program to develop new wingtip devices called “Sharklets.” The new devices will improve fuel burn on the A320 family by 3.5 percent on “longer” sectors, corresponding to an annual CO2 reduction of some 730 metric tons per aircraft. Read more

NEWS – NSW Solar Owners Hit The Jackpot

The New South Wales Government has announced that it is showing the way to building a much stronger solar industry for Australia, by introducing a gross feed-in tariff for its state’s rooftop solar systems. Households and small businesses in NSW can now take advantage of the sunshine that falls on their rooftops by earning 60 cents per kiloWatt hour for all electricity generated. Read more

BUSINESS – Meeting the Business Standard

The Australian Centre for Corporate Social Responsibility has announced the fourth annual conference, “Meeting the Standard: the Post-GFC World of Responsible Business Practice”. To be held in Melbourne on 19 February, 2010, the conference will discuss what a new global standard on social responsibility principles, topics and practices will mean for the business world. Read more

NEWS – Marriott To Expand ‘Green’ Hotels By 1000%

Marriott has announced that it will expand its green hotel portfolio ten-fold over the next five years by introducing a green hotel prototype. The green hotel prototype, which will be available in April 2010, will save owners approximately $100,000 and six months in design time, and reduce a hotel’s energy and water consumption by up to 25 percent. Read more

GIVEAWAY – ‘Peace On Earth’ Christmas Cards

The Earth Greetings range of 100% Earth Friendly cards and stationery is stocked in over 350 locations throughout Australia and you can search here for the stockist nearest you. The first 25 subscribers who can answer the question: “Who offers the most Earth friendly range of greeting cards in Australia?” wins a pack of ‘Peace On Earth’ Christmas cards valued at $14.95.

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The Big Green Idea is a new funding initiative from the British Council designed to help put eco-visionary ideas into action. Five project grants of AU$10,000 each are on offer to people who will make a real contribution to Australia’s environmental future.

With urban centres expanding rapidly throughout the world, the challenge of making them sustainable becomes even more pressing. The Big Green Idea is designed to assist initiate new projects that motivate people to minimise their own climate change impacts.

The British Council are looking for eco-entrepreneurs with savvy ideas that will help address some of the biggest sustainability challenges for urban communities while making a positive impact on the way people live.

Specifically, funded projects should address the following urban issues:
waste reduction and efficiency
transport and travel
energy reduction
water efficiency
sustainable design

Applications are now open and close Friday 4 December 2009.

For further information visit: www.biggreenidea.com.au

THE OFFICIAL WEEKLY E-NEWS OF THE GREENPAGES ISSUE NUMBER 109 | NOVEMBER 2009

NEWS EVENTS PRODUCTS TIPS

NEWS – Hot Models Strip For 350 Degrees

Is there a more attention-grabbing way to highlight a cause than to have a selection of the world’s hottest supermodels strip on video? That’s exactly what the 350.org climate change initiative has done, featuring runway who vow to take it all off if we lobby politicians to reduce CO2 emissions down to 350 parts per million in the atmosphere. Well, it got your attention! Click here for the video…

PRODUCT – Margaret River Hemp

Margaret River Hemp Co has been selling hemp clothing and body care for the last 10 years. One of the most versatile plants in the world, hemp breathes well and resists fading. Hemp seed oil is a natural plant product described as ‘nature’s perfect moisturiser’. Highly unsaturated, it is a non-greasy oil that is rapidly absorbed into the skin. Margaret River HempCo’s hemp seed oil is from Tasmania and their body care range is made in Margaret River. Natural luxury and excellent value for money. Read more

NEWS – The Big Green Idea

The Big Green Idea is a new funding initiative from the British Council designed to help put eco-visionary ideas into action. For the first time, in 2009 there are five project grants of AU$10,000 available to people who will make a real contribution to Australia’s environmental future. Read more

PRODUCT – Eco Child ‘Green to Grow’ Glass Baby Bottles

Green to Grow glass baby bottles are a safe, stylish, and sophisticated choice for parents concerned about toxins in plastics. Made in the USA and tested in both the US and in Eurpoe, they are designed for comfort, with a modern, ergonomic shape. Graduated measurements are embossed into glass in ounces and millilitres. 2 bottles per pack (120ml or 240ml), and includes a beginner (slow flow, 0-3 months) nitrosamine-free silicone teat. Read more

EVENT – 2009 Melbourne Bicycle Film Festival

The Bicycle Film Festival returns to enliven the streets of Melbourne with bicycle-themed revelry of every kind. Celebrating its third year in Melbourne, the BFF has now firmly established roots in the cycling community, with more than 10,000 bike-lovers attending festival events over the last two years. Over 250,000 people are expected to attend the BFF in 2009. So much more than a film festival, the BFF is a community and cultural festival. Read more

PRODUCT – Enviro Saver Home Health Checks

Renowned environmentalist and Australian of the Year Dr Tim Flannery is supporting Enviro Saver’s Home Health Check program, which provides free assessments for Australian home owners looking to reduce their carbon footprint and energy bills. Home owners who sign up for the free program will receive a visit from a qualified and government endorsed home sustainability assessor. Read more

TECHNOLOGY – The Recycle-able Computer

The recycle-able computer uses recycled paper or pulp material for a nature-friendly solution to the problem of disposability, while each of its separate layers can easily be replaced if broken or damaged. Likewise, if the casing becomes damaged or worn, it too can be recycled as it’s made of the same recycled paper and pulp material, instead of plastic and metal. Read more

NEWS – Revamped News Stand Becomes Eco-Shop

An old news stand pillar right in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD opened its doors this week as a revamped showcase of innovative eco-products. Stocking all locally made, environmentally responsible products, gifts and art, the Eco Innovators Showcase Shop will be open for six months to promote local designers who are going green. Read more

NEWS – ANZ Launches Interest-Free Green Loans

ANZ has launched its interest-free Green Loans for Australian households to invest in solar, water saving, and energy-efficient products to help reduce their energy and water bills as well as their impact on the environment. For eligible customers, the ANZ Green Loan is available for amounts from $3,000 to $10,000 over four years. Read more

NEWS – Coca-Cola Amatil’s Sustainable Distribution Centre

Coca-Cola Amatil (CCA) has opened its new distribution centre at Eastern Creek, which is partly powered by nearly 700 solar panels on its roof. The $1.2 million 110 kilowatt solar photovoltaic system will generate 148 megawatt hours of clean renewable energy every year, translating into a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of 148 tonnes annually and providing more than 15% of the distribution centre’s energy needs. Read more

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Associations & Certifications
Carbon Trading & Offsets
Design & Marketing
Environmental Services &
Consultants
Finance
Industrial Water Products
Landscape
Office Products & Fitout
Printing & Paper
Professional Training
Recycling & Waste
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Eco Retail Stores
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Products
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Weddings & Events
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Celebrating ATA International Project Group’s activities in East Timor for 2009

When: Thursday 3 December
Time: 6pm onwards for a 6:30pm start
Where: Space 39, Level 2, 39 Little Collins St, Melbourne (the gallery located above ATA’s office)
Details: Refreshments including Timorese coffee will be served. This is a free event although donations are very welcome.
RSVP: Email Wendy Clarke at wendy@ata.org.au or ph:(03) 9631 5407

ATA’s International Projects Group (IPG) has had an exciting and busy year in 2009. Join us at a relaxed and informative evening to learn about our latest projects in East Timor. We’ll also be thanking the volunteers involved and looking to inspire others to think about joining us next year.

Format for the evening
6:00 – 6:30pm Arrive and mingle.
6:30 – 7:30pm Presentations on IPG’s latest project works by ATA project manager Anton Vikstrom and other volunteers.
7:30 – 8:30pm Join IPG volunteers for refreshments and a yarn about their latest adventures in East Timor.

ATA’s International Projects Group is a volunteer group that undertakes renewable energy projects in Timor Leste and other countries in the region. IPG has been working with East Timorese communities since 2003 in the promotion, training and installation of solar power.

You have received this email because you are an ATA member or subscriber to ReNew magazine or Sanctuary magazine.
ATA advocates on behalf of its members who are making sustainable choices in their own homes and who benefit from the experience of others in the ATA network. ATA publishes ReNew: technology for a sustainable future, and Sanctuary: sustainable living with style magazines which are read by 120,000 people across Australia.

If you don’t want to receive bulletins like this from time to time, please let us know. Ph (03) 9639 1500 or email maddie@ata.org.au
ATA – Alternative Technology Association
A not-for-profit organisation promoting renewable energy, sustainable building and water conservation since 1980.
ABN: 57 533 056 318
Level 1, 39 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000
Reception: (03) 9639 1500
Fax: (03) 9639 5814
ata@ata.org.au
www.ata.org.au

Well there is definately tension in the air … when will the apricots and plums ripen?

And what effect will the scorching heat and then buckets of rain have on their progress?!

I am sure many of you are dusting your bottling and jamming (and maybe drying?) technology – enjoy the abundance of summer and stone fruits
(and good luck not over-indulging!)

Hope you can make it to the december WESTSIDE swapmeet with whatever goodies you have growing or cooking or jamming at the moment

Saturday 5th December
Same time, same place
10-11.30am (always first saturday of every month)

211 Nicholson St, Footscray (Grasslands)

Whatever you’ve got growing or to share – everyone and anything is welcome -

greens, citrus, eggs, honey, manure, coffee grinds, preserves, jam, homemade sourdough bread or biscuits, companion plants, herbs (think small bunches or root stock), seedlings, scones, smiles, and fruit and veg of course!

Hope to see you and your little urban harvest swappers for some community bonding and a great chat!

As part of the Memorybyrnong Wave Your Flag celebration, Permaculture Out West will be celebrating its formation. Come join us on the banks of the Maribyrnong River at the Pipemakers Park, to share, learn and be inspired. We’ll be having a picnic.

The main POW celebration is from 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM, where we’ll introduce ourselves and get to know you!

BYO Picnic

Wave your Flag is a celebration to come together, share, learn and be inspired. Join us!
LOCATION: Community Garden, LMW Pipemakers Park, Maribyrnong (Mel Ref: 28 B10)