Friday, April 09, 2004
Environment / Nature / Events - Nordegg, AB
Sacred Spaces Conference - May 7 - 9, 2004
EDMONTON, AB, Apr. 08, 2004 (APIRG) - The Conference of Global, Environmental and Outdoor Education Council (GEOEC) of ATA May 7 - 9, 2004 at Goldeye Centre, Nordegg, Alberta. The conference includes keynote speakers, workshops, field trips and outdoor activities which address the challenges we face in the areas of global, environmental and outdoor education and our role as educators, both formal and informal, in creating a more healthy, just and peaceful world. Keynotes are: Courtney Milne, photographer, author, journalist, teacher and inspirations speaker John Acorn, the "nature nut", an author, actor, entertainer and nature enthusiast Sr. Maureen Wild, Earth Centered presenter and founder of the Centre for Earth and Spirit. For
full information see www.geoec.org/conference/index.html . For more information contact Conference Co-Director Suzanna Wong at conference@geoec.org .
Sacred Spaces Conference - May 7 - 9, 2004
EDMONTON, AB, Apr. 08, 2004 (APIRG) - The Conference of Global, Environmental and Outdoor Education Council (GEOEC) of ATA May 7 - 9, 2004 at Goldeye Centre, Nordegg, Alberta. The conference includes keynote speakers, workshops, field trips and outdoor activities which address the challenges we face in the areas of global, environmental and outdoor education and our role as educators, both formal and informal, in creating a more healthy, just and peaceful world. Keynotes are: Courtney Milne, photographer, author, journalist, teacher and inspirations speaker John Acorn, the "nature nut", an author, actor, entertainer and nature enthusiast Sr. Maureen Wild, Earth Centered presenter and founder of the Centre for Earth and Spirit. For
full information see www.geoec.org/conference/index.html . For more information contact Conference Co-Director Suzanna Wong at conference@geoec.org .
Global Village Overview / Science & Technology
Digital Storytelling
CARDIFF, Wales, Apr. 9, 2004 (Cardiff School of Journalism, Media & Cultural Studies) - The digital storytelling project is led by Daniel Meadows and funded by BBC Cymru/Wales. Daniel has been seconded to the BBC to work as creative director of Capture Wales, a project in which the latest tools of new media production are offered to those who might formerly have regarded their relationship with BBC Wales as being merely to provide it with an audience. The Centre has recently appointed Ms Jenny Kidd to research and evaluate this project as part of her PhD Dissertation. Capture Wales .
Digital Storytelling
CARDIFF, Wales, Apr. 9, 2004 (Cardiff School of Journalism, Media & Cultural Studies) - The digital storytelling project is led by Daniel Meadows and funded by BBC Cymru/Wales. Daniel has been seconded to the BBC to work as creative director of Capture Wales, a project in which the latest tools of new media production are offered to those who might formerly have regarded their relationship with BBC Wales as being merely to provide it with an audience. The Centre has recently appointed Ms Jenny Kidd to research and evaluate this project as part of her PhD Dissertation. Capture Wales .
Our Shifting Focus / Sustainable Future Views
WeMoonSpirit Celebrates Women's Connectivity
WEBSITE Reference, Apr. 09, 2004 (Heart of the Earth) - We women cycle along with the moon, sharing certain experiences, opportunities and trials in common. Because we cycle as the moon cycles, we are inextricably tied to the natural world, and to the Yin aspect of Light. WeMoonSpirit celebrates this inherent commonality with other women and with the natural world. The Spirit of WeMoon is the belief that the evolution of all women, individually and collectively should be encouraged, enhanced, and supported by women. It is the belief that we should both learn from and teach each other, that all things are connected, and that we are ready to understand and act on that connection. http://www.wemoonspirit.com/ .
WeMoonSpirit Celebrates Women's Connectivity
WEBSITE Reference, Apr. 09, 2004 (Heart of the Earth) - We women cycle along with the moon, sharing certain experiences, opportunities and trials in common. Because we cycle as the moon cycles, we are inextricably tied to the natural world, and to the Yin aspect of Light. WeMoonSpirit celebrates this inherent commonality with other women and with the natural world. The Spirit of WeMoon is the belief that the evolution of all women, individually and collectively should be encouraged, enhanced, and supported by women. It is the belief that we should both learn from and teach each other, that all things are connected, and that we are ready to understand and act on that connection. http://www.wemoonspirit.com/ .
Science & Technology / Our Shifting Focus
Internet Watchdogs
OTTAWA, ON, Apr. 09, 2004 (CIPPIC) - The Canadian Internet Policy and Public Interest Clinic (CIPPIC) was established in fall of 2003 at the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, Common Law Section. CIPPIC seeks to ensure balance in policy and law-making processes on issues that arise as a result of new technologies. Upper year law students work under the supervision of the Clinic director on projects and cases involving the intersection of law, technology and the public interest. http://www.cippic.ca/ .
Internet Watchdogs
OTTAWA, ON, Apr. 09, 2004 (CIPPIC) - The Canadian Internet Policy and Public Interest Clinic (CIPPIC) was established in fall of 2003 at the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, Common Law Section. CIPPIC seeks to ensure balance in policy and law-making processes on issues that arise as a result of new technologies. Upper year law students work under the supervision of the Clinic director on projects and cases involving the intersection of law, technology and the public interest. http://www.cippic.ca/ .
Sunday, April 04, 2004
Youth / Jobs / Community Building
Taking IT Global
CALGARY, AB, Mar. 8, 2004 (U of C, Campus Greens) - TakingITGlobal is pleased to inform Canadian members of details of our exciting International Internship Program: We have seven internships in 2004 funded through the Canadian Department for Foreign Affairs and International Trade's Young Professionals International program. These internships provide an incredible opportunity for young Canadians (ages 18-30) looking to gain experience to build a career in international development through work in key positions within high-profile initiatives. To Apply, download, complete, and send the Application Package available at: http://interns.takingitglobal.org/ Application deadline: April 15th, 2004.
Taking IT Global
CALGARY, AB, Mar. 8, 2004 (U of C, Campus Greens) - TakingITGlobal is pleased to inform Canadian members of details of our exciting International Internship Program: We have seven internships in 2004 funded through the Canadian Department for Foreign Affairs and International Trade's Young Professionals International program. These internships provide an incredible opportunity for young Canadians (ages 18-30) looking to gain experience to build a career in international development through work in key positions within high-profile initiatives. To Apply, download, complete, and send the Application Package available at: http://interns.takingitglobal.org/ Application deadline: April 15th, 2004.
Youth / Jobs / Community Building
Youth Mine Action Ambassador Program
CALGARY, AB, Mar. 8, 2004 (U of C, Campus Greens) - The Youth Mine Action Ambassador Program (YMAAP) is pleased to announce recruitment for up to eight placements in its Young Professionals International Mine Action Program in 2004 - 2005. This program is made possible through the Government of Canada's Youth Employment Strategy (YES). Please visit http://www.dangermines.ca/ for more information and details on the application process.
Youth Mine Action Ambassador Program
CALGARY, AB, Mar. 8, 2004 (U of C, Campus Greens) - The Youth Mine Action Ambassador Program (YMAAP) is pleased to announce recruitment for up to eight placements in its Young Professionals International Mine Action Program in 2004 - 2005. This program is made possible through the Government of Canada's Youth Employment Strategy (YES). Please visit http://www.dangermines.ca/ for more information and details on the application process.
Socially Responsible Agriculture / Stewardship
Hilda's Story
WATKINS GLEN, NY, Apr. 2, 2004 (Farm Sanctuary) - Hilda, the first animal rescued by Farm Sanctuary was found discarded on top of a pile of dead animals at Lancaster Stockyards. Thrown just inches from a rotting carcass, flies and maggots were crawling all over her seemingly lifeless body. When she picked up her head, we lifted her into our van and rushed her to the nearest veterinarian. Hilda had collapsed because of the brutal transportation conditions — she was not suffering from any injuries or diseases.
http://www.farmsanctuary.org/adopt/hilda.htm .
Hilda's Story
WATKINS GLEN, NY, Apr. 2, 2004 (Farm Sanctuary) - Hilda, the first animal rescued by Farm Sanctuary was found discarded on top of a pile of dead animals at Lancaster Stockyards. Thrown just inches from a rotting carcass, flies and maggots were crawling all over her seemingly lifeless body. When she picked up her head, we lifted her into our van and rushed her to the nearest veterinarian. Hilda had collapsed because of the brutal transportation conditions — she was not suffering from any injuries or diseases.
http://www.farmsanctuary.org/adopt/hilda.htm .
Conferences / Events / Calgary, AB
Experiments in Reconciliation
CALGARY, AB, Apr. 01, 2004 (Project Ploughshares) - Experiments in Reconciliation - a workshop with DEREK G. EVANS, Director, Naramata Centre for Continuing Education - "Peace does not just happen. How can we create the conditions under which Peace can be built after conflict? Does a "just peace" always begin with individuals or local action? Evans, former director of Amnesty International Ltd. will draw on his direct experience, notably in North Korea, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and elsewhere to propose effective frameworks for reconciliation." CO-SPONSORED BY: PROJECT PLOUGHSHARES CALGARY AND PARKDALE UNITED CHURCH, Saturday, May 1, 2004; 8.30 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. BEST WESTERN VILLAGE PARK INN, Charleswood Room, 1804 Crowchild Trail, N.W. Calgary. Free underground parking. ALL WELCOME. Deadline for registration: April 26th or call 270-7366. www.ploughsharescalgary.ca .
Experiments in Reconciliation
CALGARY, AB, Apr. 01, 2004 (Project Ploughshares) - Experiments in Reconciliation - a workshop with DEREK G. EVANS, Director, Naramata Centre for Continuing Education - "Peace does not just happen. How can we create the conditions under which Peace can be built after conflict? Does a "just peace" always begin with individuals or local action? Evans, former director of Amnesty International Ltd. will draw on his direct experience, notably in North Korea, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and elsewhere to propose effective frameworks for reconciliation." CO-SPONSORED BY: PROJECT PLOUGHSHARES CALGARY AND PARKDALE UNITED CHURCH, Saturday, May 1, 2004; 8.30 a.m.- 4.00 p.m. BEST WESTERN VILLAGE PARK INN, Charleswood Room, 1804 Crowchild Trail, N.W. Calgary. Free underground parking. ALL WELCOME. Deadline for registration: April 26th or call 270-7366. www.ploughsharescalgary.ca .
Social Responsibility / Our Shifting Focus
Looking for Press Kit about the hit film “The Corporation”?
VANCOUVER, BC, Apr. 2, 2004 (Big Picture Media Corporation) - Help get the word out about the film! As independent filmmakers, we are always trying to offset the cost of our documentary. Canadian and US versions. Take action Volunteer Form also available. http://thecorporation.tv/splash.php .
Looking for Press Kit about the hit film “The Corporation”?
VANCOUVER, BC, Apr. 2, 2004 (Big Picture Media Corporation) - Help get the word out about the film! As independent filmmakers, we are always trying to offset the cost of our documentary. Canadian and US versions. Take action Volunteer Form also available. http://thecorporation.tv/splash.php .
Science & Technology / Alternate Fuels
McDonalds runs its vehicles on Kompogas
VICTORIA, BC, Apr. 2004 (EcoNews - http://www.earthfuture.com/econews/ ) – “In Europe… 18 Kompogas plants turn kitchen scraps into compost and fuel. In Zurich, Switzerland, 1200 cars and trucks run on the climate-friendly gas, producing 80% fewer smog-forming chemicals then regular gas. Even McDonalds runs its vehicles on Kompogas. Analysis shows that if all the world's organic wastes were treated this way (instead of rotting in landfills), 10% of the world's vehicle fleet could run on Kompogas. Now there's a thought.” See http://www.kompogas.ch/en/ .
McDonalds runs its vehicles on Kompogas
VICTORIA, BC, Apr. 2004 (EcoNews - http://www.earthfuture.com/econews/ ) – “In Europe… 18 Kompogas plants turn kitchen scraps into compost and fuel. In Zurich, Switzerland, 1200 cars and trucks run on the climate-friendly gas, producing 80% fewer smog-forming chemicals then regular gas. Even McDonalds runs its vehicles on Kompogas. Analysis shows that if all the world's organic wastes were treated this way (instead of rotting in landfills), 10% of the world's vehicle fleet could run on Kompogas. Now there's a thought.” See http://www.kompogas.ch/en/ .
Science & Technology / Transportation
Compressed Air Car
VICTORIA, BC, Apr. 2004 (EcoNews - http://www.earthfuture.com/econews/ ) - For several years, people have been talking about the compressed air car, which the French racing car test driver Guy Negre has been developing (see http://www.theaircar.com). The idea is simple: the cars uses compressed air at 5000 lbs per square inch to drive its pistons, using a small amount of electricity to refill it. The prototype CityCAT has been on the road, and investors have put up $13 million US to build 35 manufacturing plants around the world. It sounds exciting, but in real life, the car only goes 37 miles before it runs out of air. For local city use, 37 miles would be just fine, and a recharge could be done commercially in 3-4 minutes (3-4 hours at home), but the limitation is enough to put a hold on production. Guy (Dauncey) is now looking at redesigning the car as a gas/compressed air hybrid.
Compressed Air Car
VICTORIA, BC, Apr. 2004 (EcoNews - http://www.earthfuture.com/econews/ ) - For several years, people have been talking about the compressed air car, which the French racing car test driver Guy Negre has been developing (see http://www.theaircar.com). The idea is simple: the cars uses compressed air at 5000 lbs per square inch to drive its pistons, using a small amount of electricity to refill it. The prototype CityCAT has been on the road, and investors have put up $13 million US to build 35 manufacturing plants around the world. It sounds exciting, but in real life, the car only goes 37 miles before it runs out of air. For local city use, 37 miles would be just fine, and a recharge could be done commercially in 3-4 minutes (3-4 hours at home), but the limitation is enough to put a hold on production. Guy (Dauncey) is now looking at redesigning the car as a gas/compressed air hybrid.
Global Village Overview / Our Shifting Focus
Reinventing Money for Economic Democracy, Self-determination and Global Harmony
WEBSITE Reference, Apr. 2004 (Reinventing Money) - It is my personal mission to demystify money, banking, and finance, to show how flaws in the existing structures are the cause of so much unnecessary suffering, and to design and implement better systems of exchange and need satisfaction. This website is the culmination of more than a quarter century of research, study, and experimentation by Thomas H. Greco, Jr. http://www.reinventingmoney.com/index.php .
Reinventing Money for Economic Democracy, Self-determination and Global Harmony
WEBSITE Reference, Apr. 2004 (Reinventing Money) - It is my personal mission to demystify money, banking, and finance, to show how flaws in the existing structures are the cause of so much unnecessary suffering, and to design and implement better systems of exchange and need satisfaction. This website is the culmination of more than a quarter century of research, study, and experimentation by Thomas H. Greco, Jr. http://www.reinventingmoney.com/index.php .
Science & Technology / Zero Waste
Sanyo & Mitsui Make Biodegradable CDs From Corn
WEBSITE Reference, Apr. 02, 2004 (SustainableBusiness.com News) - Most of 26 billion CDs currently in circulation will end up in landfills. The polycarbonate they are made from doesn't degrade. Sanyo and Mitsui Chemicals have developed a product dubbed "MildDisc", a CD and jewelcase made from polyactic acid derived from corn resin that is entirely biodegradable, breaking down into water and carbon dioxide over about 50 years. Sanyo already has orders for MildDiscs and has applied for GreenPla status, a kitemark given to environmentally sound products by the Biodegradable Plastics Society. http://www.sustainablebusiness.com/news/sbnews.cfm?ID=3560 .
Sanyo & Mitsui Make Biodegradable CDs From Corn
WEBSITE Reference, Apr. 02, 2004 (SustainableBusiness.com News) - Most of 26 billion CDs currently in circulation will end up in landfills. The polycarbonate they are made from doesn't degrade. Sanyo and Mitsui Chemicals have developed a product dubbed "MildDisc", a CD and jewelcase made from polyactic acid derived from corn resin that is entirely biodegradable, breaking down into water and carbon dioxide over about 50 years. Sanyo already has orders for MildDiscs and has applied for GreenPla status, a kitemark given to environmentally sound products by the Biodegradable Plastics Society. http://www.sustainablebusiness.com/news/sbnews.cfm?ID=3560 .
Sustainable Industry / Social Responsibility
Business Ethics
WEBSITE Reference, Apr. 2004 (SustainableBusiness.com)The oldest, most comprehensive publication on corporate responsibility. The mission of Business Ethics is to promote ethical business practices, to serve that growing community of professionals striving to live and work in responsible ways, and to help create financially healthy companies in the process. Bimonthly, $29 per yr. http://www.business-ethics.com Subscribe: 1-800-601-9010; email: bizethics@aol.com .
Business Ethics
WEBSITE Reference, Apr. 2004 (SustainableBusiness.com)The oldest, most comprehensive publication on corporate responsibility. The mission of Business Ethics is to promote ethical business practices, to serve that growing community of professionals striving to live and work in responsible ways, and to help create financially healthy companies in the process. Bimonthly, $29 per yr. http://www.business-ethics.com Subscribe: 1-800-601-9010; email: bizethics@aol.com .
Stewardship / Our Shifting Focus
Espousing Sustainable Use of the Planet in an Age of Instant Gratification
DALLAS-FORT WORTH, TX, (UNT, CPS, Sustainable Communities Review, Spring / Summer 2002, Volume 5, No. 1) – “Sustainable use of the planet requires societal and individual behaviours compatible with multi-generational preservation of natural capital. However, citizens of the United States and many other developed countries “want it all right now.” The instant gratification of perceived needs without regards for future consequences is totally incompatible with sustainable use of the planet, which espouses preservation of ecosystem health and integrity.” Scroll to page 7.
Espousing Sustainable Use of the Planet in an Age of Instant Gratification
DALLAS-FORT WORTH, TX, (UNT, CPS, Sustainable Communities Review, Spring / Summer 2002, Volume 5, No. 1) – “Sustainable use of the planet requires societal and individual behaviours compatible with multi-generational preservation of natural capital. However, citizens of the United States and many other developed countries “want it all right now.” The instant gratification of perceived needs without regards for future consequences is totally incompatible with sustainable use of the planet, which espouses preservation of ecosystem health and integrity.” Scroll to page 7.
Stewardship / Global Village Overview
The Nature Audit
NORTH SHUSWAP, BC, Apr. 2004 (Pesky Skeeter, Vera Gottlieb) - A groundbreaking report that examines the state of nature in Canada and reveals, for the first time, the cumulative impact of industry and population growth over the past 400 years… Some of the priority actions needed: * conserve the virtually untouched north; * better manage northern forests; * restore habitats to aid species recovery; * develop conservation plans to address the needs of long-lived species that reproduce slowly; * limit urban sprawl and promote public transit. Things that you can do: * purchase locally grown food to reduce pollution from food transportation; * purchase organically grown products; * purchase products that require little or no energy to operate. (Source: WWF-Working for Wildlife-Summer 2003; www.wwf.ca )
The Nature Audit
NORTH SHUSWAP, BC, Apr. 2004 (Pesky Skeeter, Vera Gottlieb) - A groundbreaking report that examines the state of nature in Canada and reveals, for the first time, the cumulative impact of industry and population growth over the past 400 years… Some of the priority actions needed: * conserve the virtually untouched north; * better manage northern forests; * restore habitats to aid species recovery; * develop conservation plans to address the needs of long-lived species that reproduce slowly; * limit urban sprawl and promote public transit. Things that you can do: * purchase locally grown food to reduce pollution from food transportation; * purchase organically grown products; * purchase products that require little or no energy to operate. (Source: WWF-Working for Wildlife-Summer 2003; www.wwf.ca )
Science & Technology / Wind Power
Dutch courage
NORTH SHUSWAP, BC, Apr. 2004 (Pesky Skeeter, Vera Gottlieb) - The Netherlands is leading the world in the innovative use of wind power by installing turbines on the roofs of buildings in metropolitan areas. Amsterdam, Tillburg, Twente and The Hague all plan to install roof windmills this year, at a cost of $5,000 to $12,000 each. One windmill already installed on the roof of a school is capable of generating about 5,000 kilowatt-hours of energy per year - enough for an average Dutch family’s needs, although only about half of what an average Canadian household uses. (Source: The CCPA Monitor-Aug.2003; www.policyalternatives.ca )
Dutch courage
NORTH SHUSWAP, BC, Apr. 2004 (Pesky Skeeter, Vera Gottlieb) - The Netherlands is leading the world in the innovative use of wind power by installing turbines on the roofs of buildings in metropolitan areas. Amsterdam, Tillburg, Twente and The Hague all plan to install roof windmills this year, at a cost of $5,000 to $12,000 each. One windmill already installed on the roof of a school is capable of generating about 5,000 kilowatt-hours of energy per year - enough for an average Dutch family’s needs, although only about half of what an average Canadian household uses. (Source: The CCPA Monitor-Aug.2003; www.policyalternatives.ca )
Sustainable Industry / Alternative Energy
Green Power and Green Business Make a Match
US Dept. of Energy, Apr. 2004 (Smart Communities Network News ) - Green Power and Green Business Make a Match, Says Columnist http://www.solaraccess.com/news/story?storyid=6389 . Energy consultant Kevin Hagen explored the relationship between green power and green business in a recent column for Solar Access.
Green Power and Green Business Make a Match
US Dept. of Energy, Apr. 2004 (Smart Communities Network News ) - Green Power and Green Business Make a Match, Says Columnist http://www.solaraccess.com/news/story?storyid=6389 . Energy consultant Kevin Hagen explored the relationship between green power and green business in a recent column for Solar Access.
Conferences / Renewable Energy / Sustainable Future Views
Renewable Fuels Workshops - May 24-28, 2004 - Carbondale, Colorado
WEBSITE Reference, Apr. 03, 2004 (Solar Energy International) - Register now! Learn the fundamentals of creating a renewable fuels economy. The workshop will cover all types of renewable fuels and alternative transportation. Experts from the field will discuss how we can move away from a gasoline economy, and rely less on foreign oil. A biodiesel vehicle, electric vehicle, and other forms of alternative transportation will be on site. Topics Include: Safety, Biodiesel, Straight Vegetable Oil conversion, Gas/Diesel Electric Hybrid Vehicles, Ethanol, Compressed Natural Gas, Biogas for Gasoline Engines, Bio Motor Oil, Hydrogen Vehicles, Electric Vehicles, Solar Electric Vehicles / Racers, Compressed Air Vehicles, Recumbent Human / Electric Bikes. http://www.solarenergy.org/workshops/workshop.php?id=12 .
Renewable Fuels Workshops - May 24-28, 2004 - Carbondale, Colorado
WEBSITE Reference, Apr. 03, 2004 (Solar Energy International) - Register now! Learn the fundamentals of creating a renewable fuels economy. The workshop will cover all types of renewable fuels and alternative transportation. Experts from the field will discuss how we can move away from a gasoline economy, and rely less on foreign oil. A biodiesel vehicle, electric vehicle, and other forms of alternative transportation will be on site. Topics Include: Safety, Biodiesel, Straight Vegetable Oil conversion, Gas/Diesel Electric Hybrid Vehicles, Ethanol, Compressed Natural Gas, Biogas for Gasoline Engines, Bio Motor Oil, Hydrogen Vehicles, Electric Vehicles, Solar Electric Vehicles / Racers, Compressed Air Vehicles, Recumbent Human / Electric Bikes. http://www.solarenergy.org/workshops/workshop.php?id=12 .
Municipalities / Environment / Community Development
New Scorecard to Measure Quality of Life Trends in the Northwest
US Dept. of Energy, Apr. 2004 (Smart Communities Network News - http://www.sustainable.doe.gov/ ) Northwest Environment Watch has released the Cascadia Scorecard, a new gauge of regional progress that monitors seven key trends that are shaping the region's future. The Scorecard looks at how changes in health, economy, population, energy, sprawl, forests, and pollution affect Cascadia, the region encompassing British Columbia, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and western Montana. http://www.northwestwatch.org/scorecard/ .
New Scorecard to Measure Quality of Life Trends in the Northwest
US Dept. of Energy, Apr. 2004 (Smart Communities Network News - http://www.sustainable.doe.gov/ ) Northwest Environment Watch has released the Cascadia Scorecard, a new gauge of regional progress that monitors seven key trends that are shaping the region's future. The Scorecard looks at how changes in health, economy, population, energy, sprawl, forests, and pollution affect Cascadia, the region encompassing British Columbia, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, and western Montana. http://www.northwestwatch.org/scorecard/ .
