Posts Tagged ‘climate change’
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Around the world in 12,000 solar panels
By Astrit Muzliukaj
Solar Impulse, the unmanned solar powered aircraft made its longest in air flight reaching a height of 28,000 feet and landing after 26-hours. The aircraft powered up the day before and set off during the night managing to surpass its expected air-time of 24 hours to an impressive 26 hours. It is powered by 12,000 solar cells and managed to reach a speed of 70 MPH. The makers’ aim is to circle the globe by 2013.
Ensuring that this technology improves, we could possibly see commercial airliners equipped with such technology. This symbolic flight is a first for humans and, besides the obvious benefits for the airline industry, could see the reduction in fossil fuel usage and possibly usher in a new way of aviation travel. However, some speculate that the solar panels may not be efficient enough to power such a huge aircraft or may need special servicing to keep the solar panels working. In addition to this there is the obvious fact that some flights are carried out during the night and need to be constantly replenished with sunlight to power them up.
(Image courtesy of BBC)
This type of technology is sure to have implications in our flying. Firstly, the low demand for fuel is good news not only for the environment and also a fantastic saving for companies such as Boeing and Airbus. This then has implications on customers as the savings are brought down to travellers in the form of lower fares. This would be a huge benefit for travellers as they could afford more holidays and see more places across the globe for a much lower price of what is spent today.
The possibilities that this experiment brings are endless. The use of solar panels on planes could have knock on effects for other events. An example is the world cup which could see a reduction in overall carbon emissions as a result of spectators flying in solar powered planes. Avid travellers also see it as a perfect way of reducing their individual carbon footprint and doing their bit for the planet. This surely is a great piece of technology and must be supported through to ensure that future generations of planes have solar panels fitted inside them.
In summary, there are three clear winners if this kind of technology really gets into gear. There’s the environment benefiting from low fossil fuel usage and less air pollution. Next, the airline companies such as Airbus and Boeing will benefit through savings because they no longer need to power up their planes using fuel - just simple sunlight. And finally there’s the public. All those great savings that airliners make will pass onto you in a neat little low fare package (in the long run)… hopefully if they are not too greedy.
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Part 1 ~ United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
Bonn in Germany is famous for a couple of reasons – Beethoven, Haribo, being the capital of West Germany and for being the home of many a UN Intercessional.Last December, the latest craze within the media and the environmental world was Copenhagen and the climate talks. Everyone was hoping for a deal to be placed on the table which would save the world from future climate change, for every country represented in the UN to agree on a certain percentage to cut down their carbon emissions by. – For there to be a moment, that would change history and would become as significant as the fall of the Berlin wall or man walking on the moon.
However- we know this did not happen, for what ever reason no country could agree on a percentage of carbon cuts. At the end of this conference we were left with defining images of human failure.
But what next? Climate issues may not grab the front headlines like it did in December anymore, but that does not mean talks are still happening.
The meetings are giving the catchy abbreviation of UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) and they happens roughly 3 times a year, in the lead up to a huge convention in December a.ka. Copenhagen.
Though this year, it shall be moving to Cancun in Mexico.
These intercessionals, are so much more important then the big end of year events – As it is within Bonn where the little things are sorted out, which can make or break a fantastic climate deal.
It is monotonous as all they do is talk about stuff that makes no sense to a novice or they talk about whether a comma is in the right place of a document statement.
Maybe a metaphor will help in this instance
The UNFCCC is like baking a cake. In December you get the finished product of that years baking. However if you did not put in the right amount of eggs, flour, sugar, or baked it thoroughly – you end up with a sodden mess that no one practically likes.
Youth love cake! Thus it is no surprise to find youth attending the UNFCCC bake of.
Aiming to make it a delicious, sugary mess. That ever nation – developed, developing, small island can enjoy.
But how you ask? What do the youth do?
That shall be answered in blog 2
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New Voters, New Politics
By John Northall
On the evening of Tuesday 27 April Climate Squad joined fourteen organisations and 500 student activists to debate with senior figures from all the major political parties. Young people were there having their say about the issues that matter: international development, human rights, global health, climate change, corporate responsibility and democratic participation.
The event organiser, Adam O’Boyle, says that:
“We need a new politics and to get it we must turn to a new generation, because if you want to do something different, you have to be different”
The debate ran just like BBC’s Question Time. With questions directed from young and new voters to senior figures from all the major political parties, including Hilary Benn (Labour), James Brokenshire (Conservative), Simon Hughes (Liberal Democrats) and Darren Johnson (Green Party).
We picked up on some of the main topics which we felt relevant. One young person asked the parties how they will increase the youth vote. Hilary Benn from Labour told of little initiative saying “it’s easy to be cynical it’s hard to get involved”. However, Simon Hughes for Lib Dem spoke of “reducing the voting age to 16 to coincide with school leavers” and went on to encourage youth involvement with politics through local internships and volunteering.Another important question asked “as the Government now owns the Royal Bank of Scotland, what will your party do to stop the bank investing in climate change causing business? For example the tar sands in Canada.” Tar sands are a method of extracting oil which emits four times more greenhouse gases than conventional methods. Darren Johnson responded for the Green Party first saying that they would “turn the RBS into a leading ethical investor thus increasing taxpayer’s money in efforts to tackle climate change.” However James Brokenshire for Conservative flat out denied responsibility for the investment choices of Government owned banks. Lib Dem representative Simon Hughes went on to pledge assistance with ethical decisions of investors but to not enforce them.
The atmosphere at the debate was dynamic with the Lib Dems enthusing the young voters, whereas Conservative came across disengaged completely. Labour received mixed reaction and the Green Party managed to receive little reaction at all.
The debates nationwide continue up until the Election on May 6th and it truly looks to be a close race. However, if more young people were persuaded to vote I am certain some parties would be left by the way side.
If you are interested in this style of event, taking action on climate change and creating a positive vision to drive individuals and political leaders to take notice of young peoples aspirations, keep an eye out for “Greenprint to 2050 - the Climate Squad vision”…coming soon!
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Documentary Photography Workshop - By Alexandra Gater
Documentary Photography Workshop,
Saturday 17th April 2010, Covent Garden
By Alexandra Gater
On Saturday, ten Climate Squad photography volunteers were given the opportunity to attend a documentary photography workshop taught by Bryce Bennett, artistic director of Small Guerilla.
Although the ten of us involved with the workshop had varying years of experience with photography, it was clear when we introduced ourselves to each other that we all had a passion for the art form. Bryce delivered information that catered to the passion for photography that we all shared; this meant that we could all take something out of the workshop regardless of our level of experience.
In the morning Bryce introduced us all to documentary photography through visuals and explanation. Although we couldn’t learn everything there is to know about documentary photography in one morning, Bryce did a really good job of delivering us the basics in which we could build on in the future. We then got the chance to use what we had learnt that morning by taking photographs in Covent Garden (it was a beautiful sunny day!). Although this practical session made me realize that documentary photography is very challenging, I found myself inspired to let my guard down and take photos of subjects that I would have been hesitant to shoot in the past.
In the afternoon Bryce combined what we had learnt that morning about documentary photography with helpful tips that have prepared us for any future events we may capture for Climate Squad. We were also taught how to narrow down our best images quickly which I found extremely helpful. We had yet another chance in the afternoon to practice everything we had learnt throughout the day and though it was challenging, I felt myself beginning to get more comfortable with the basics.
Bryce continually stated during the workshop that the key to getting better at photography is to, like anything, practice and try new things. The workshop has given me the tools and inspiration to practice documentary photography in my own time and will be something that I continue to explore.
Photographs by Alexandra Gater
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Meeting Nick Rosen
Meeting Nick Rosen,
By Climate Squad intern, Liam Bolton
Tuesday was a very exciting day for me. I was due to meet the famous author Nick Rosen. He is mainly known for writing ‘How to live Off-grid’, a guide to living without mains water or electricity. Moreover, he has a new book coming out in summer called ‘Off-grid America’.
I was star-struck to say the least and dreading making a fool of myself. However, he was a really nice fella. He essentially wants me to take control of the twitter/facebook side of things and write an article on his website. I also talked to him about Climate Squad (trying to find links between living off-grid and Climate Squad’s general message). He seemed really enthusiastic about meeting the Climate Squad team and discussing further how he could be of service. We agreed that he could write a blog for us on our blog website so watch this space!
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London EcoBarbie #8 The minty ‘treat’ choc
LONDON ECO BARBIE –
Life’s not fair but at least my pants are..#8 The minty ‘treat’ choc
By Amy WhitneyHumans have chewed gum for millennia but only recently has it become the hi-tech plastic, minty ‘treat’ choc full of preservatives that it is today
Next time you consider reaching for the gum before a hot date please consider the impact of your chewing gum addiction on the environment. Chewing gum takes years to biodegrade in the environment, plus millions are spent in taxes cleaning it off our streets which could be spent on new hospitals and schools. Chewing gum is not digestible by animals and many birds have died eating the stuff!! Next to cigarette butts chewing gum is the second largest littering item in the world.
Arguably unnecessary when we have good access to toothbrushes and plus you’ll be quids in after a few weeks of quitting. 5 packs of gum a week equals £4.00 saved which could be put towards new clothes or even an extra clubbing night with friends.
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London EcoBarbie #7 Brick Lane
LONDON ECO BARBIE –
Life’s not fair but at least my pants are..#7 Brick Lane
By Amy WhitneyTime spare for a lazy London afternoon? Head down to Brick Lane Sunday up market and support the local fashion talent. Up and coming designers from hot institutions such as Central St. Martins, London College of Fashion and prestigious Courtauld Institute host stalls with a wealth of on trend bargains. Not only does this reduce the extent large corporations make excessive profits but proves sustainable in the long term as money is reinvested in the local community. The area a growing culture hub has been gentrified over the last few years.
Brick lane market gives you the opportunity to explore fresh cuisine from places all around the globe- hellenic, malaysian, japanese, mexican- you name it and it’s guaranteed stall holders are making it. Healthier than shop brought food, fresher and minus the plastic wrapping. It’s easy to organise more environmentally friendly consumption habits when you plan ahead.
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London EcoBarbie #1 Ethical shopping habits
LONDON ECO BARBIE –
Life’s not fair but at least my pants are..By Amy Whitney
Climate change and human environmental impact, raised at Copenhagen 2009, are the most pressing issues facing humanity. Climate change requires restructuring of societies resource distribution; in this diary I analyse my own habits. Accepting we’re not tree-hugging, bicycle-riding eco-centric warriors is the first step in rising to the challenge to cut carbon, waste and water consumption.
Today, I concentrate on ethical shopping habits. A West Hampstead trip results in charity shopping; helpful staff, cheap and fantastic quality. A fur hat, lace shirt and pashmina in the name of S/S ‘10′, entirely unnecessary but spitting images of Topshop versions. ‘I cannot believe more students aren’t onto this!!’ “Vintage fashion is a viable, attractive and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional fashion” (Vintage fashion guild 2010). Simply by researching where to shop consumption patterns can be adjusted to benefit the local community and environment.
Starbucks, simple, convenient and never disappointing yet we’re surrounded by locally run coffee houses. In todays’ society it’s all about image. However Starbucks are the largest Fair Trade coffee buyer on the planet (Fair Trade 2010), commendable in a world where many companies engage in less than ethical business practices.
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UK Aware 16th-17th April
Liam Bolton
In an age of environmental awareness and protection, it is increasingly important to showcase sustainable and ethical ways of living.
UK Aware is a ray of hope in a sea of darkness (i.e. environmental ignorance and destruction). UK Aware is essentially an exhibition dedicated to finding ideas for a greener way of living. Indeed, they are showcasing a green and ethical lifestyle exhibition at Olympia in London on the 16th and 17th of April.
There will be an area just for kids, so the whole family can get involved, as well as a green business start-up surgery if you want to start your own ethical business!
And, of course… We’ll be there! We have our own space which will be filled with our EcoInteractive exhibits and a workshop area. We’ll deliver training, host debates, run competitions and allow people to express how they’re feeling on a walking COPArt wall… plus hold a daily Global Action Plan pub quiz.
Buying a ticket through Global Action Plan costs £6 (as opposed to £10 on the website and £15 on the door). This is a fun-filled, family-friendly event with lots of activities for you to get involved in. Buy your ticket now and we look forward to seeing you there.
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#1 The Traffic of Delhi, India
“India – a LEDC (less economically developed country) with very little concern, if any at all, over the effects its development could have on the environment from increasing levels of CO2 emissions. The USA and UK, to name a few, have exploited resources for means of their own economic development whilst being ignorant of the consequence to the climate, which has become hauntingly apparent over the past decade. Perhaps we could use what we have learnt to prevent developing countries from following the same path?”
Well, this is what I thought before actually visiting India. Whilst being out there I realised that what I thought about India’s attitude towards climate change had, not really surprisingly, been moulded from what I had read about in the media and at university. Actually, it appears we have a lot to learn as Kevin McCloud also highlighted in his “Slumming It” series on Channel 4.
Arriving in Delhi was a shock, even if I spent a day trying to describe the chaos of traffic everywhere, you wouldn’t be able to understand unless you went there yourself. However, despite being so chaotic people actually got to where they wanted without much of a problem. Whilst being driven in a Rickshaw for the first time I was overwhelmed by the heat being emitted from the exhausts of large rickety looking trucks and the volume of traffic meant that you could’nt escape this man-made heat. After addressing this with some friends who actually live in Delhi, they explained that the problems with pollution in Delhi have actually led to the development of a large scale project to try and reduce it. 10 years ago a law was passed whereby all heavy weight vehicles must be fuelled with CNG (compressed natural gas). At this time there used to be thick heavy smog that sat over the city making it difficult to see a reasonable distance in front of yourself. However, since this law was passed the levels of pollution have actually dropped considerably over the 10 year period which, despite the small rise again over the past year or so, is a step in the right direction!
When you actually see the large trucks with “Propelled By Clean Fuel” and “Delhi Transport Corporation, Worlds Largest Eco-friendly CNG Bus Service”, you do wonder how such a large, battered, old looking vehicle can possibly be what it states. But it is the mindset and intentions which are just as valuable for a positive movement towards action on climate change.
In addition to CNG, Delhi is currently undergoing a massive construction project to create a huge metro network across the city. There is no doubt that this will be anywhere near complete for the Common Wealth Games in 2010 of which the structure itself leaves a lot for the imagination. The Delhi Metro network will become a large supplier of public transportation and once complete will hopefully reduce the volume of motor Rickshaws around that city that emit damaging fuel. As a result, we hope for a decline in pollution levels across the city…I guess we shall see!
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