​EcoHub exists to make the future sustainable. Through every step of our business we add value by delivering sustainable solutions to our partners.

Why a hub? The centre of a wheel (aka a hub) holds together each crucial spoke of the wheel, reduces friction in the process of the journey and facilitates transmission of useful energy in providing forward motion (from the drivetrain to the traction surface). The industrial revolution brought about the mechanisation of man's processes, this has evolved to the degree at which we have the potential to adversely impact the planetary scale processes that sustain us. At that stage human kind was battling for survival against the adversity of  nature. We were successful in that battle and at a point after the second World War, we were so efficient at the fight against nature that we began to overwhelm the system that produces our vital needs, to the point that the global ecosystem needs our support so that it can continue to support us. We have a real and urgent need to have a cumulative positive impact on our environment so that it continues to sustain us and the rest of Earth's biodiversity.

What do we mean by eco? In our modern existence, depending on technology and economy for our day to day wellbeing, it is easy to forget that the basic essentials of life; wholesome food, clean water and oxygen in the air, are provided to us by ecosystems. We have facilitated the domination of the man made agronomic ecosystem to the detriment of other natural systems that provide us with a chemically balanced atmosphere and hydrosphere. Water is the blood, rivers are the veins and vegetation is the skeleton that supports the Earth systems that supports us and all other life upon this planet. Eco is short for ecological and we are inextricably part of the human ecosystem, it must provide a place for all of the organisms that will support us an future generations. 

In short, current human systems are unsustainable because they do not take into account the necessity for a non-economically beneficial, but absolutely essential ecosystem services. Einstein famously said "We can't solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them". We will not detract from the huge benefit that technology and mechanisation has provided us, but we now must begin to consider the necessity of ecosystems in providing us a healthy environment in which to live. In essence, that is why ecohub.com.au exists. To facilitate a collaborative and innovative approach to making systems socially and environmentally sustainable, while providing economic growth. This is facilitated by sustainable project management.

Our focus is simple. We will have a positive cumulative impact delivered through proactive sustainable project management. We will modernise accepted practices and normalise sustainability in the broader community. Our goals to this end are:

1. Conservation of biodiverity
2. Increasing atmospheric oxygen and reducing greenhouse gasses
3. Increasing habitat abundance and complexity
4. Conservation of marine ecosystems
5. Reducing contaminants in water and air
6. Increasing wellbeing of indiginous people
7. Conservation of soil resources

Australia’s unique reptiles – including lizards and snakes – face severe threats from invasive species and climate change, with 7% of them threatened with extinction, reveals the latest update of The International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species, published today (05/07/2018). The Red List now includes 975 Australian reptile species – almost all of Australia’s reptiles, the majority of them endemic to the continent. 


Key points:

• A 1°C increase in temperature is likely to result in a loss of 50% of the population of some Australian reptiles. 
• Invasive species are the main threat to the survival of over half of these threatened reptiles.
• Cats alone are estimated to kill about 600 million reptiles each year.

Check back here for articles on neutralising your carbon footprint and implementing safe and humane management of  invasive species to conserve Australian native species.

Note: IUCN Red List now includes 93,577 species, of which 26,197 are threatened with extinction. More information from the original article here. 

Environmentally proactive wine grower recognised in 2013 Australian Rural Women's Award
posted 20 Oct 2013, 21:55 by Toby Roscoe

Anna Hooper is a pioneering wine maker from Mount Benson, South Australia, who has a vision to see the Australian Wine industry become a world leader in environmental performance. Since 2003 Anna has been developing the first Biodynamic wine range of the Limestone Coast area at Cape Jaffa Wines. Certified since 2006, this winery has received the South Australian Wine Industry Association Environmental Excellence Award Certificate of Merit and the South Australian Sustainability Award from 2009-2011. 

As a pioneer in the industry with a passion for science and the environment, Anna has worked in a wide range of disciplines in a number of different countries, from grape growing and winemaking, to global markets. She has seen first-hand how the market reacts to environment credentials in wine and has specialist skills that can enhance biodynamic and organic management. 

Anna has a strong belief in the importance of women in rural business and has taken on positions with the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources as a member of the South East National Parks and Wildlife Consultative Committee; has been Treasurer and President of the Mount Benson Vignerons Association; is a representative on the South Australian Wine Industry Association Regional Forum and the Limestone Coast Grape and Wine Council, and more recently has become a board member on the South East Natural Resource Management Group. Anna’s award ambition is to investigate and improve the environmental performance of Australian wine compared with its global competitors. See Cape Jaffa biodinamic wineries 
Via  

46% Energy Effieciency Boost from Terawatt Solar Thermal Tracking System
posted 15 Oct 2013, 20:04 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 15 Oct 2013, 20:39 ]
Terawatt solar thermal tracking technology maximises its ability to capture the Sun's energy by tracking the Sun's movement through the sky to maintain its solar collection area at the optimum angle. The system consists high performing evacuated solar tubes and a tracking system that manoeuvres approximately 15° every hour and returns to a starting position at the end of the day, ready to capture the maximum energy the following morning. In 2010, in conjunction with the Dundalk Institute of Technology (DKIT), Terawatt demonstrated that a 46% increase in solar energy conversion to thermal is achieved from the Terawatt Sun tracking system in comparison to a conventional system, where solar panels are in a fixed position. For more information please contact es@terawattltd.com 

Green Deal: energy saving for your home or business (UK)
posted 16 May 2013, 17:56 by Eco Hub

For those readers who haven't heard of the British Government's Green Deal, here is some simple information and the Government information portal.The Green Deal makes it possible for homeowners and businesses to enjoy the financial and environmental benefits of energy-saving improvements without having to pay all the costs. Eligible emissions reducing and zero emissions energy production technologies include: insulation - eg. loft or cavity wall insulation, low carbon, energy efficient heating, draught-proofing, double glazing, photo voltaic (solar) panels or wind turbines. 
If you are interested in finding out more information, or you wish to apply for the benefits of the Green Deal, please follow this link.

Energized young Cubans help resolve climate change and much, much more - you can too! - donate!
posted 11 Apr 2013, 06:58 by Eco Hub   [ updated 11 Apr 2013, 07:08 ]

EcoHub had an email yesterday from Gioel and Handy, two international citizens living in Montreal, Canada. Gioel and Handy's project is just so fantastic that we had to share it with you! They have applied for a grant for CA$24,900, but are looking to raise another CA$23,770 for linking and energizing environmental projects in Cuba.
Cuba was devastated by hurricane Sandy in 2012. Ferocious and deadly tropical hurricanes (cyclones) like hurricane Sandy are increasing in frequency, range and intensity as a result of anthropogenically induced climate change - Gioel and Handy are determined to do something about the impacts of these storms. In their words:
"Our mission is to connect Cubans working on climate change adaptation, especially youth, to help them find and share solutions to this daunting problem."
There is a great opportunity to work, right now, to leverage the great work on climate change adaptation that is happening across Cuba.  There is an opportunity not only to ignite community -and especially youth- participation in tackling this challenge, but also to create a forum that can facilitate capacity building and learning between different stakeholders, a platform that creates opportunities for best practices on climate change adaptation to be shared widely across the country. Read more about the campaign and donate here!
Also see the websites of their local partners : www.uclv.edu.cu www.cemzoc.edu.cu www.cyen.org www.teatroloselementos.cult.cu 

Green Architecture Day at Brighton Permaculture Trust
posted 2 Apr 2013, 21:12 by Eco Hub

Brighton Permaculture Trust is hosting the annual Green Architecture Day on Saturday 27th April 2013 - 9:45am to 5pm, Sallis Benney Theatre, Brighton. Green Architecture Day hosts a day of illustrated talks; designers, practitioners and professionals will showcase cutting edge sustainable building techniques for aspiring self builders. From passive design to straw bale construction, Green Architecture Day is an educational and inspiring event tailored for an individual wanting to build an affordable home, to a co-housing group seeking to create a community space. Should you wish to attend, simply register online. 

Blue Eco Homes
posted 17 Mar 2013, 15:31 by Eco Hub

As a family-owned and operated Australian company, Blue Eco Homes is committed to the environment, and to delivering the highest levels of building craftsmanship and client service. Their focus is building environmentally-sound homes that are sympathetic to and supportive of the Australian environment, and that embody the client’s specific requirements and style. "In our constructions, we use building products and finishes that are ecologically-friendly. Our environmental commitment does not mean any reduction in quality – we use superior quality products in all our homes. The Blue Eco Homes approach ensures a house that is environmentally sustainable." For more information about Blue Eco Homes please visit their website: http://blueecohomes.com.au/

Eco City World Summit 2013 Nantes, France.
posted 5 Oct 2012, 12:01 by Eco Hub

The city of Nantes, France, will host the 10th ECOCITY summit as part of "Nantes European Green Capital 2013". The ECOCITY 2013 exhibition will be staged in the Great Hall of La Cité Nantes Events Center, designed as the ideal place to showcase solutions for Sustainable Cities. Following on from Montreal, Istanbul, San Francisco, Bangalore, Shenzhen, Curitiba, Dakar, Adelaide and Berkeley, it will be the first edition to be held in the European Union. ECOCITY is the cross-disciplinary World Summit on Sustainable Cities supported by the NGO Ecocity Builders.The ECOCITY concept is designed to: 
- Facilitate exchanges among local, regional and governmental decision-makers, researchers and the civil society
- Bring together all the different disciplines on sustainable cities
- Enable citizens to play a role.

Green Deal Summit: The definitive conference on the Green Deal (UK)
posted 4 Oct 2012, 13:27 by Eco Hub

The Building Research Establishment (BRE) estimates that 26 million homes and 1.8 million commercial properties will be eco-renovated in the UK over the next 30 years to improve their energy efficiency performance and thermal comfort. The Green Deal presents opportunities to rapidly grow the retrofit market, and accelerate progress towards the Carbon Reduction Commitment. It will improve people’s lives, providing warmer homes and more comfortable working environments, and generate significant business opportunities across the supply chain. BRE is hosting a three day Green Deal Summit with a superb lineup of 85 speakers who are leading the retrofit revolution. For more information on Retro-Expo and the Green Deal Summit, visit www.retro-expo.co.uk

An Extraordinary Journey with The Nature Conservancy in China
posted 25 Sep 2012, 11:34 by Eco Hub   [ updated 25 Sep 2012, 11:39 ]

For three lucky city-dwellers, it began online. But their journeys ultimately took them far from their computers, far from their cites, and deep into the Chinese countryside for some conservation adventure.By recording video auditions and submitting them via Chinese social media to The Nature Conservancy, three urbanites — Iris (Beijing), Jenny (Shanghai), and Jared (Chengdu) -- won a chance to visit and help conserve some of China's most important natural areas. Iris, for example, followed a monitoring and patrol team in wildlife-rich northern Sichuan's Motianling Land Trust Reserve, tracing the steps of wild pandas and even catching a glimpse of one on an infrared camera trap.
For her part, Jenny traveled over a thousand miles upstream from Shanghai to a nature reserve where she saw firsthand the tremendous threats facing the Yangtze's fish, and worked with reserve staff and fishermen to restore these important waters. And in the home of the Yunnan golden monkey, Jared sits in on community meetings on how to protect the local environment and hikes deep into some of China's last remaining primary forests with a ranger who has spent two decades protecting the elusive monkey.

RSPB Insa Marshes Appeal (UK)
posted 25 Sep 2012, 11:02 by Eco Hub   [ updated 25 Sep 2012, 11:04 ]

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is focussing on a rare opportunity to protect an even rarer wetland ecosystem, most of which have been impacted on since man made drainage was expanded into them for modern agriculture centuries ago. The RSPB says "Set within the stunning Cairngorms National Park in the Scottish Highlands, the Insa Marshes are one of the best pieces of wetland in the whole of the UK and is home to an amazing array of birds, buzzing insects and fragrant flowers.... Parts of the wetland on the Dell are overgrown with scrub and are much drier than they should be. We'll use our expertise in managing wetlands to improve the area for wildlife. Away from the wetland, we'll plant aspen trees that will eventually connect woodland on our current reserve with existing clumps of aspen on the Dell..... For the first time in 60 years, we have a fantastic opportunity to secure that missing piece of the landscape – a pocket of land called the Dell of Killiehuntly – and complete the reserve." They are asking for donations to help purchase the Dell of Killiehuntly, you can find out how to help them do that by clicking here.

 Planet Green E-waste Recycling
posted 6 Sep 2012, 16:28 by Eco Hub
Planet Green Recycling are based in Sydney, Australia and their solution to E-waste (electronic waste, such as old TVs and computers) aims to be a step towards a cleaner, greener world for everyone!
What happens to the plastic put out for recycling? Step 1 - Separation. Plastic containers are removed from the recycling stream and sorted into polymer types at the Materials Recycling Facility (MRF). Step 2 - Baling and contaminant removal. Bales of different types of plastic are transported to factories for reprocessing where large contaminants are removed. Step 3 - Processing. The plastics are either shredded, chopped or ground and then washed to remove further contaminants. The plastic is melted and pushed through an extruder, a bit like an old fashioned mincer or a spaghetti maker. It is then cooled and pressed through a die and chopped or pelletised into granules. It is then ready to be made into new products. Planet Green will also issue you with a certificate to prove that your E-wast has been recycled responsibly. If you or your company are in Sydney and you're looking for a solution to your E-waste issues then why not give Planet Green Recycing a call on 1300 731 044 or visit their website planetgreenrecycling.net.au for more information

Brighton Energy Coop - largest installed solar PV system in the UK
posted 20 Jun 2012, 09:44 by Eco Hub   [ updated 20 Jun 2012, 09:50 ]

Brighton Energy Coop is currently working on the largest installed solar PV system in the UK at the Shoreham Port project in the South of England. "Forty of our solar panels were installed today at Shoreham Port. These are the first of our community-owned solar array at the Hove Enterprise Centre; 200 more will go on our five roofs there in the next few weeks. Together they will form the largest solar system in the county." says Brighton Energy Coop's Will Cottrell. Brighton Energy Coop are currently raising funds to install solar PV systems on four buildings in the Brighton area. To do this we invite you to join Brighton Energy Coop by buying shares. We aim to raise £200,000 – investors receive a 4% return on their investment as well as the potential for a further 30% EIS tax relief and the opportunity to kickstart further community energy projects. Click to download Brighton Energy Coop's share invitation and application form.

My Organics - Australian nuts, fruit, beans and museli
posted 18 Jun 2012, 16:55 by Eco Hub   [ updated 18 Jun 2012, 16:58 ]

MyOrganics is as nature intended from the farm to your pantry. Our body is only one of the beneficiaries from organic nutrition. The environment is as critical to us as our own bodies. The environment has been effected detrimentally for many years from artificial chemicals used in agriculture and horticulture. Anything we can do as individuals to minimise this degradation must be good for the planet. Organic farmers work with nature to build and replenish the nutrients in the soil through crop rotation, composting and cultivation.As in most areas of business it is critical to ensure that organic products are what they say they are. MyOrganics products are certified from the farm to your pantry.
• We ensure all our organic suppliers comply to our Approved Supplier Programme
• To protect and confirm the organic chain is not broken our Brisbane facility is organically certified
• We pack all the foods at our Brisbane facility under strict organic  packing requirements
GreenMark sustainable packaging

posted 18 Jun 2012, 08:18 by Eco Hub
Make a difference today by switching to sustainable packaging! Choosing products made from renewable resources and that can be composed helps reduce the amount of waste in landfills, reduce our dependency on oil and cut greenhouse gas emissions. GreenMark are committed to considering the full cycle of their products. 
Made from sugarcane bagasse, a plant based renewable resource that is biodegradable in 60-90 days, GreenMark tableware not only utilizes annually renewable plant fibers but also reduces the general waste stream. Bagasse is in itself an agricultural waste, it is represented as 100% recycled material. GreenMark tableware range reduces your environmental impact while providing the full functionality of traditional packaging, all at affordable price.
See these sustainable products at http://www.greenmarkpack.com.au/

EcoChoice cups
posted 18 Jun 2012, 08:08 by Eco Hub
EcoChoice paper cups and lids are an environmentally friendly option for your hot beverages. Made using PLA, which is derived from corn starch, EcoChoice  cups and lids are biodegradable and compostable in an adequate composting environment. PLA has reduced greenhouse gas emissions and reduced usage of fossil fuels. It is odourless, taste-neutral and heat resistant up to 100°C. Available as single or double wall, our EcoChoice paper cups and lids are the perfect GREEN alternative for all hot beverages on the move.

Biciclando - passing on the sustainability message in South America from the saddle of a bicycle
posted 18 Jun 2012, 07:43 by Eco Hub   [ updated 18 Jun 2012, 07:44 ]

Biciclando are a mobile community of eleven young visionaries from five different countries, who travel by bicycle through the magnificent South American continent. They visit alternative and rural communities to share knowledge related to sustainable ways of living, which are harmonious and respectful with planet earth.
"We believe that the best way to inspire change is through action. Therefore, we use bicycles in our journey since they are an excellent form of sustainable transport that minimises our carbon footprint. In addition, Biciclando facilitates workshops, conferences and environmental awareness activities, providing people with simple tools that not only make their daily duties easier but also more sustainable." Check out their amazing journey and track their progress at biciclando.org

Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation Expands in Africa
posted 11 Dec 2011, 16:21 by Eco Hub   [ updated 11 Dec 2011, 18:26 ]

Recently at the COP17 UN Climate Change Meetings in Durban, South Africa, new plans to extend the UN's Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) programme into Africa were released. REDD+ refers to national and international policies and actions focused on reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries, as well as enhancing the crucial role that forests play in providing basic ecosystem services (notably water resources, soil protection, and biodiversity) and in improving the living conditions of populations in tropical forest countries. Central African and Donor Partner Countries Announce a Joint Declaration of Intent on REDD+ in the Congo Basin. Meanwhile the IUCN’s National Committee of the Netherlands, represented by their Senior Advisor on Energy and Climate, Carl Königel, are also in Durban launching the African Terrestrial Carbon Centre (ATCC), their new initiative on REDD+ in Africa. Mr. Raymond Mbitikon, Executive Secretary of the Central African Forests Commission (COMIFAC), added that “Central African countries have a solid track record of cooperation and coordination on forest conservation in the Congo Basin. We look forward to the opportunity to accelerate our efforts as a result of the transparent, sustainable, predictable, and results-oriented support we will receive from our development partners.” Excellent news for Central African forests and their people if the system will work. We hope to bring you more on this in the near future. via www.iucn.org and www.un-redd.org

Greenfleet Australia
posted 9 Dec 2011, 15:20 by Eco Hub

Since the Greenfleet program commenced in 1997, Greenfleet have planted more than 7 million (7,000,000) native trees, across more than 400 sites, on behalf of our individual and business supporters. The ultimate reason for planting these trees is to create healthy forests that recapture carbon from the atmosphere. Greenfleet works to create forests in areas of environmental concern, putting back (where possible) the mix of native species that would have been present in the local area prior to land clearing.  In addition to absorbing greenhouse gases, these forests also help to: reduce salinity and erosion, improve water quality in rivers and streams, provide habitat for native wildlife and provide windbreaks and shelter for crops and livestock.

For more information see www.greenfleet.com.au

CO2 Australia
posted 9 Dec 2011, 10:14 by Eco Hub

CO2 Australia is the Australian market leader in the establishment and management of forest carbon sinks intended for registration under formal emissions reduction schemes.  Australia is a world leader in dedicated carbon forest sink plantings. While the world is talking about carbon trading, carbon credits and carbon offsetting, Australia is forging ahead. CO2 Australia is the country's largest provider of dedicated forest carbon sink plantings managing over 22,000 hectares of carbon plantings across three states, grossing over 33 million trees.

See www.co2australia.com.au for more detailsBioBanking
posted 5 Dec 2011, 10:03 by Eco Hub   [ updated 11 Dec 2011, 18:09 ]

The New South Wales (NSW) Government has introduced the Biodiversity Banking and Offsets Scheme (or 'BioBanking') to help address the loss of biodiversity values, including threatened species. BioBanking is a market-based scheme that provides a streamlined biodiversity assessment process for development, a rigorous and credible offsetting scheme as well as an opportunity for rural landowners to generate income by managing land for conservation. 

The conservation of our endangered animals, plants and ecosystems is one of the greatest environmental challenges facing Australia today. The key reason for the historically high extinction rate of these animals, plants and ecosystems is habitat degradation and loss, initially from over-grazing and clearing for agriculture, and more recently from the clearing of native vegetation for urban development. BioBanking enables 'biodiversity credits' to be generated by landowners who commit to enhance and protect biodiversity values on their land through a biobanking agreement. These credits can then be sold, generating funds for the management of the site. Credits can be used to counterbalance (or offset) the impacts on biodiversity values that are likely to occur as a result of development. The credits can also be sold to those seeking to invest in conservation outcomes, including philanthropic organisations and government. For more info visit: http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/biobanking/ or http://www.biobank.com/

EU Ecolabel
posted 24 Nov 2011, 13:21 by Toby Roscoe

The European Ecolabel is a voluntary scheme, established in 1992 to encourage businesses to market products and services that are kinder to the environment. Products and services awarded the Ecolabel carry the flower logo, allowing consumers - including public and private purchasers - to identify them easily. While the logo may be simple, the environmental criteria behind it are tough, and only the very best products, which are kindest to the environment, are entitled to carry the EU Ecolabel.

The EU Ecolabel is a rapidly growing brand. Many producers wanting to sell their products across Europe have realised the benefits that the European Ecolabel brings. Products bearing the Flower logo can be marketed throughout the European Union and the EEA countries (Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein).
What is more, this is a label that consumers can genuinely trust. The criteria are agreed at European level, following wide consultation with experts, and the label itself is only awarded after verification that the product meets these high environmental and performance standards. 
www.ecolabel.eu

New Koala Conservation Strategy (Australia)
posted 20 Nov 2011, 13:50 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 11 Dec 2011, 18:11 by Eco Hub ]

Gold Coast City Council is implementing a koala conservation project for the East Coomera area, in accordance with the provisions of a Scientific Purposes Permit issued by the Queensland Department of Environment and Resource Management. This project involves a number of immediate measures, as well as longer-term initiatives to help protect koalas and to protect and restore habitats away from areas of urban development.

Council will be preparing a citywide Koala Conservation Plan that will include programs to help inform the community about threats to our local koala population, and engage local residents in conservation efforts.

The koala is one of Australia's most loved and iconic animals. The Federal Environment Minister is currently considering whether to add the koala to the list of nationally threatened species. Koalas are already listed as vulnerable across the South East Queensland Bioregion and New South Wales.

Across Queensland, koala numbers continue to decline as a result of habitat loss and increasing threats such as dog attacks, road fatalities and disease. More info and koala links available at http://www.goldcoast.qld.gov.au/t_standard2.aspx?pid=6935

Renewable Technologies Training from BPEC (UK)
posted 12 Nov 2011, 18:22 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 11 Dec 2011, 18:12 by Eco Hub ]

BPEC (Training) Ltd is a registered charity commited to identifying the education and training needs of those who work in the Building Services Engineering Industry and providng innovative solutions to address these needs. In an era of increased government and european legislation and also rising energy bills, renewables technologies are becoming increasingly important as the homeowner looks to alternative ways to heat their homes and provide hot water. BPEC offers the plumbing and heating engineer a range of renewable energy courses and will continue to update and add to this portfolio of products.
BPEC offer training in the following: Solar Thermal Hot Water, Heat Pumps, Rainwater Harvesting & Greywater Recycling, Solar Photovoltaic, Woody Biomass Heating, Renewable, Energy Awareness, Warm Water Underfloor Heating, Domestic Ventilation Systems, Rainwater Harvesting & Greywater Recycling, Solar Photovoltaic, Woody Biomass Heating, Renewable Energy Awareness, Warm Water Underfloor Heating, Domestic Ventilation Systems

How to make a bat box
posted 12 Nov 2011, 15:51 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 11 Dec 2011, 18:21 by Eco Hub ]

How to make a bat box and provide bat habitats in your back garden. Bat boxes are artificial roosts, usually made of wood or woodcrete (a mixture of wood chips and concrete). They are designed to provide bats with alternative resting places to replace natural ones in tree holes, and also to encourage bats into areas where there are few such natural sites. Bat boxes have a useful place in bat conservation, but it should be remembered that bats take to boxes less readily than birds.

The Bat Conservation Trust (BCT) is working towards a world where bats and people thrive in harmony, to ensure they are around for future generations to enjoy. Your support will make a big difference to what we are able to achieve. Download a fact sheet from the Bat Conservation Trust here.

Eco Friendly Tiles (UK)
posted 12 Nov 2011, 15:21 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 11 Dec 2011, 18:16 by Eco Hub ]

Eco Friendly Tiles sources its distinctive tile and stone products ethically and responsibly, working only with manufacturing partners who share our passion for the built environment and the natural world.

As the first CarbonNeutral® tile company in the UK, we celebrate product beauty, quality, innovation and sustainability. There is no need for compromise; no need for greenwash. Just a better way of sourcing tile and stone - and a better way of doing business, together.

For more information see http://www.ecofriendlytiles.co.uk/

Cooks of Country Markets Website Launched
posted 26 Dec 2010, 08:59 by Eco Hub

Demand for homemade food has grown enormously in response to the increasing interest in real food, made by real people in real places. The Cooks of Country Markets preserve, bake and make products in their own home kitchens to sell within their local communities. Country Markets are funded by the Making Local Food Work Project, a £10 million Big Lottery Fund supported programme that aims to reconnect people with the land by increasing access to fresh, healthy local food. Now, in an exciting new initiative, The Cooks of Country Markets are selling their products in local community stores, village and farm shops and garden centres. You too can become a Cook for your local Country Market group! 

More information can be found at: http://www.cooksofcountrymarkets.co.uk/ or http://www.country-markets.co.uk/

Passivhaus Awareness
posted 17 Dec 2010, 08:01 by Eco Hub   [ updated 17 Dec 2010, 08:24 ]

According to UK government figures, around 50% of Britain's energy related CO2 emissions are due to energy consumption to heat and light buildings. Modern sustainable building design is a great way to cut these emissions. If you're interested in eco friendly buildings then this free half day seminar is for you!The Passivhaus Standard is the fastest growing low energy standard in Europe with over 20,000 building realised to date, with many more currently being designed and constructed. Passivhaus buildings have a high level of indoor air quality and roughly achieve a 75% reduction in space heating requirements compared to the standard practice for UK new build.This event is aimed at raising awareness of the Passivhaus standard amongst those with an interest in low-energy design, and construction. It introduces the delegates to the Passivhaus standard, highlighting the basic characteristics of Passivhaus buildings, the certification requirements and how to set about designing a building to the standard. The morning will finish with a demonstration of the Passivhaus Planning Package (PHPP), the design and certification tool used to model Passivhaus.
Click on the event dates to see more:11 January 2011 - CUBE, Manchester
24 March 2011 – CUBE, Manchester

Communities and Climate Action Conference January 2011
posted 6 Dec 2010, 08:11 by Eco Hub   [ updated 6 Dec 2010, 08:20 ]

LCCN are propsoing to hold a unique national conference, to be run by LCCN for the Communities and Climate Action Alliance on January 16th/17th in London. This is a Sunday and Monday: the Sunday will be a gathering of community and grass roots activists to discuss the issues, obstacles and ways forward for effective local action with the aim of producing key points to inform the 2nd day of the conference on the Monday, which will be more of a multi-sector event with a wide range of workshops etc.. More at http://lowcarboncommunities.net/2010/11/09/communities-and-climate-action-conference-january-2011/

Australian Rainforest Foundation News November 2010
posted 20 Nov 2010, 08:50 by Eco Hub   [ updated 20 Nov 2010, 09:00 ]

    This edition of the ARF newsletter features:

    -  4000th tree planted in Cape Tribulation    -  New Cancer drug from rainforest seeds
    -  Natural Instinct homecare products – supporters of ARF
     -  ARF Board in the field
    -  Trees planted in the Forest of Life for soldiers   
    -  Give a gift that gives twice this Christmas, new products in our online shop
       
Download the newsletter here  http://www.arf.net.au/newsandmedia/newsletters/newsletter_11_10.pdf
The best Gift that you can give  www.forestoflife.com.au
​
Southern Solar (UK)
posted 18 Nov 2010, 07:02 by Eco Hub   [ updated 18 Nov 2010, 07:18 ]
Southern Solar are specialists the installation of solar thermal and solar electric systems. They have built a strong reputation for delivering a high quality service to commercial, public sector and domestic clients, having successfully completed thousands of solar projects across the South of the UK.
Currently with five regional bases in Sussex, London, Bristol, Hereford and South Wales - our regional teams survey, specify, install and maintain solar systems within a 100 mile radius of each base. Southern Solar is in the process of setting up a new office in Oxford. 
"At Southern Solar we are passionate about renewable energy and the state of our world. We believe that renewable energy and energy efficiency have a big role to play in helping the UK to reduce its' dependency on fossil fuels and its' impact on the environment. We are keen to see a world that is fit for future generations to inhabit, and are actively doing our bit to help make it so.
We feel that humanity has some massive challenges ahead of it both from climate change but also from resource depletion, and the potential economic problems that will follow. Instead of being paralysed by what appear to be large and insurmountable problems we have decided to get on and make some changes - one house at a time.
Helping people across the south to understand whether renewable energy will work for them and more specifically, what renewable energy will work for them, is part of our daily work. We have always offered a range of products and systems as we find that one size does not fit all!"
Visit www.southernsolar.co.uk for more information.

Organic Cosmetics from Denmark
posted 18 Nov 2010, 06:48 by Eco Hub   [ updated 18 Nov 2010, 07:20 ]

All skincare products from Pure Shop are organic, plant-based products without substances that are synthetic or harmful to the environment and without drugs, such as endocrine disruptors. These products have no ingredients from animals and contains no synthetic preservatives, - color or fragrance.

Visit Pure shop in our two stores in Grønnegade 31 & 36 in Copenhagen - Denmark's largest organic perfumery specializing in organic skincare, haircare and makeup. Our flagship shop on two floors of No. 36 has a large and wide assortment of famous brands such as. The Organic Pharmacy, suki skincare, Logona, Dr. Hauschka, Weleda, Jane Iredale makeup, Organic Glam, John Masters Organics, Nascent Organics, Bio Beauté city Nuxe, Huiles A Baum, Honore des Prés, Flora Cent, Anthousa, Precision nail polish, etc.

We have constructed a large organic makeup department on the first floor where we are at peace and tranquility can treat our customers with professional and individual advice on makeup. We also have organic products for mens care, baby and child care and organic fragrances, etc

Visit http://www.pureshop.dk/

The Sustainability Awards 2010
posted 15 Nov 2010, 07:11 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 18 Nov 2010, 06:59 by Eco Hub ]

“The Sustainability Awards really are the awards that showcase the fantastic achievements of UK industry, in embracing the sustainability challenge. The standards are increasingly high and this year UK-GBC is delighted to be working with UBM to really ensure that the story of those shortlisted entries can be told. This is not just about the winners – important as that is – this is about all of us learning from and sharing that best practice.” UK-GBC
  The Sustainability Awards recognise and reward outstanding achievement in Sustainability in the built environment and are a key benchmark for achieving best practice in the sector. The 2010 awards will provide a fresh slant on green practice in construction & architecture with new categories and furthermore opportunities to shine in this competitive industry.
This year’s Sustainability Awards will see an important shift away from the traditional awards evening.  In this joint venture between the UK-GBC and Building magazine, our combined mission is to facilitate a 10 week educational, innovative awareness campaign that places a prolonged spotlight on all shortlisted sustainability pioneers and those sponsors endorsing their unique achievement.
Visit http://sustainabilityawards.building.co.uk/  for more information.
Royal College of Physicians London, 30th November 2010

The Nature Conservancy
posted 23 Oct 2010, 03:28 by Eco Hub

The mission of The Nature Conservancy is to preserve the plants, animals and natural communities that represent the diversity of life on Earth by protecting the lands and waters they need to survive.We address the most pressing conservation threats at the largest scale. Thanks to the support of our more than 1 million members, we’ve built a tremendous record of success since our founding in 1951:

• We've protected more than 119 million acres of landand 5,000 miles of rivers worldwide — and we operatemore than 100 marine conservation projects globally.
• We work in all 50 states and more than 30 countries — protecting habitats from grasslands to coral reefs, from Australia to Alaska to Zambia. See where we work.
• We address threats to conservation involving climate change, fresh water, oceans, and conservation lands. Visit http://www.nature.org/  for more information or show your support.

Environmental Sustainability in the Workplace Workshop
posted 21 Oct 2010, 06:11 by Eco Hub
Want to improve the environmental sustainability of your organisation? Wondering if there is more to it than simply recycling paper? Need help puttingyour good ideas into practice? This thought provoking training day is designed to help you to gain a detailed understanding of the issues surrounding environmental sustainability and develop a meaningful action plan that will have a real and positive impact on your organisation and the environment.
Date:

Thursday, October 28, 2010 Time: 10:00-16:00Location: St. Ethelburga’s, 78 Bishopsgate, London EC2N 4AG

 For full details and further information, please visit: www.talkaction.org or call +44 20 7324 4774.

Wildlife trees
posted 21 Oct 2010, 05:18 by Eco Hub

The Wildlife Tree Committee (WTC) of British Columbia is a multi-agency committee composed of representatives from the provincial Ministry of Forests and Range, and Ministry of Environment, the B.C. Workers’ Compensation Board, industry and labour, and public interest groups from across the province. Formed in 1985, the WTC is the advisory body acting on behalf of the three signatory agencies and representing all wildlife tree matters in British Columbia. The Wildlife Tree Committee mandate is:
"To promote the conservation of wildlife trees and associated stand-level biodiversity in a safe and operationally efficient manner, in forest, park and urban environments."
Three major objectives of the WTC are:

• to ensure the maintenance and enhancement of wildlife trees in order to sustain the species dependent on them (about 80 species, or 15% of the province's birds, mammals and amphibians); and
• to foster cooperation and understanding between the various interest groups.
• to provide a wildlife/danger tree assessment procedure and appropriate training opportunities that will provide a high standard of worker safety.
• The WTC believes that managed forests, high standards of worker safety, and maintenance of valuable habitat for wildlife tree-dependent species are mutually compatible if cooperative action is taken to integrate these goals.

HSBC Climate Partnership
posted 20 Oct 2010, 08:14 by Eco Hub   [ updated 20 Oct 2010, 08:37 ]

HSBC Climate Champion Steve Hackett (photo left) proudly holds his certificate awarded for completing the joint HSBC and Earthwatch Institute Climate Champions field programme at their regional training centre at Edgewater, Maryland, USA. During the field course selected HSBC employees are given the knowledge and skills to champion climate change solutions within HSBC and their local community.

HSBC's key environmental programme is The HSBC Climate Partnership, which supports some of the world's leading charities to tackle the causes and impacts of climate change.  The HSBC Climate Partnership aims to combat the urgent threat of climate change by promoting action by individuals, businesses and governments in some of our major markets. Launched in 2007, HSBC is working with The Climate Group, Earthwatch, Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute and WWF to:

• Engage individuals. Educate and inspire employees and public to address climate change at home and at work, by engaging them in volunteering and research projects
• Engage decision-makers. Work with government and corporations in China, India, USA and UK to create cleaner, greener cities and promote them as models for the world.
• Protect major rivers. Make the Amazon, Ganges, Thames and Yangtze  - and the millions of people who depend on them - less vulnerable to climate change
• Improve understanding of forests. Help combat climate change by enabling scientists' to improve their understanding of how forests interact with carbon and the climate.
• Make our business more sustainable. Make our employees more aware of the business implications of climate change. Help build their general capabilities, confidence and commitment to HSBC.

Naked Soap Works
posted 20 Oct 2010, 08:03 by Eco Hub   [ updated 20 Oct 2010, 08:13 ]

"Naked products are 100% natural. we do not use synthetic colours, scents, stabilizers, emulsifiers or preservatives. in fact, naked® ingredient lists look like something you’d find in a gourmet market: essential oils of lemon from Italy, rosemary from spain, and geranium from egypt; ratanjot spice from india; rich callebaut cocoabutter; local honey, and cold-pressed olive oil. we strive for minimal packaging, in fact, our soaps aren’t packaged at all." Naked Soap Works are based on the beautiful Bowen Island, near to Vancouver, British Colombia. They can be found at http://nakedsoapworks.com/ 

Sustainability Live 2011 @ National Exhibition Centre Birmingham
posted 20 Oct 2010, 07:33 by Eco Hub

powersmart.ca
posted 11 Oct 2010, 06:45 by Eco Hub
Powersmart.ca experiment in downtown Vancouver (photos available here), in which two pods are lived in, one by an energy efficient client and the other is lived in by an energy waster. This project is an interesting illustration of how different lifestyles can save energy and the planet, or cost you more and it's all just so simple! Check it out online and if you're a Vancouver resident then sign up today.

Green Lighting Ltd
posted 21 Sep 2010, 19:49 by Eco Hub   [ updated 11 Oct 2010, 06:40 ]
Green Lighting Ltd are dedicated energy efficient light fitting specialists based in Worcester, U.K. Their contact details are: 

Unit A, The commercial complex,
Sherriff Street, Worcester, WR4 9AB, UK
T. 01905 610 200 - F. 01905 612 192 - E. enquiries@greenlighting.co.uk W. www.greenlighting.co.uk

Want a free listing on ecohub.org for your eco company? email us at solutions@ecohub.org

Investigating Greenland's Melting Glaciers
posted 17 Sep 2010, 02:59 by Eco Hub   [ updated 17 Sep 2010, 03:12 ]
While in Grenland this summer EcoHub was lucky enough to meet with researcher Fiamma Straneo from the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute and Greenpeace biologist Iris Menn - check out the video explaining their interesting arctic research! Photos from the fieldwork are available here.

Greenland photos now available!
posted 12 Aug 2010, 10:56 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 11 Sep 2010, 21:58 by Eco Hub ]
EcoHub's Toby Roscoe has been in the Arctic this summer and we now have some fresh photos of Greenland's stunning Kangerlussuaq region on the East Coast. This is Toby's third consecutive summer gathering information and images from the the World's largest island, which is more than 90% covered in permanent ice. You can see the new fieldwork images by clicking here

The Fold Eco Cafe - Worcestershire
posted 25 Jun 2010, 20:40 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 25 Jun 2010, 20:46 ]

"Our buffet style menu is based on fresh, seasonal, local, organic and fair trade ingredients with a health conscious bias, lovingly prepared under the guidance of Shamanic Chef David with support from Monica and the team in our theatre Kitchen. We source our ingredients as locally as we can and whilst we do use ingredients from further a field, such as spices, grains and pulses, we source these from Europe where possible and work with our suppliers to ensure our ingredients have not been flown in. 
We are a supporter of Slow food and the Slow Food movement." More info here.

Slow Food UK
posted 25 Jun 2010, 20:37 by Toby Roscoe

Slow Food UK works to ensure good, clean and fair food is a right for everyone. By good, clean and fair we mean that our food should taste good, that it should be produced in a clean way which fully respects the environment, human health and animal welfare, and that food producers are paid a fair wage. More here.

Solar Fusion
posted 25 Jun 2010, 20:27 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 25 Jun 2010, 20:29 ]

"Solar Fusion are a Government accredited company specialising in the installation of the very latest solar thermal hot water heating systems and solar photovoltaic ( PV ) electricity systems. With a firm commitment to excellent customer service, quality products and clean energy, Solar Fusion provides the most cost effective and easy to install solar energy systems that will reduce your energy bills and your carbon footprint." More info here.

Australian Conservation Foundation
posted 22 Jun 2010, 21:59 by Eco Hub   [ updated 22 Jun 2010, 22:02 ]

"The Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) is committed to inspiring people to achieve a healthy environment for all Australians. For over 40 years we have been a strong voice for the environment, promoting solutions through research, consultation, education and partnerships. We work with the community, business and government to protect, restore and sustain our environment." More info at http://www.acfonline.org.au

The Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside
posted 19 Jun 2010, 01:05 by Eco Hub

"Through monitoring and collecting data, we demonstrate an accurate picture of habitats and species that need our protection and we have developed a reputation for our objectivity and knowledge. The Wildlife Trusts campaign for better protection of our precious wildlife and habitats, raising the awareness of the public and government to wildlife threats is central to our role.  We are local wildlife experts, with a national voice and a passion for nature we love to share. The Trust monitors all planning applications within its area and makes comments where appropriate on the potential effect of the proposals on nature conservation. It provides advice to landowners, from members of the public to farmers, businesses and local authorities, on how best to manage their land for wildlife. In addition, it works in partnership with key agencies to ensure that the necessary legislation and policies are in place to conserve and enhance the region's biodiversity." Visit their site here.

Energy Solutions Expo 6&7 October 2010 London Olympia
posted 19 Jun 2010, 00:59 by Eco Hub

Click for more info on the Energy Solutions Expo


Zero carbon Britain report by the Centre for Alternative Energy
posted 19 Jun 2010, 00:54 by Eco Hub   [ updated 25 Jun 2010, 20:24 by Toby Roscoe ]

Zero carbon Britain report by the Centre for Alternative Energy: Click image to visit site.

​Brighton Energy Coop.
posted 19 Jun 2010, 00:46 by Eco Hub

The UK has a sorry lack of renewable energy. Yet recent subsidies mean renewables are both profitable and positive for the planet.

BRIGHTON ENERGY CO-OPERATIVE aims to become part of that. We are a new collective project to generate renewable energy in Brighton and Hove . Co-op membership is open to anyone - come to our meeting (right) to discover how to get involved in our pioneering £350,000 Brighton solar installation. 

PUBLIC MEETING:
17 June, 7.30pm, Free
Pheonix Community Centre, 2 Phoenix Place, Brighton, BN2 9NDLearn about: how solar works, how communities can earn money through government Feed in Tariffs and how we're going to set up Brighton's largest renewable system.
Speakers: 

Howard Johns (Southern Solar),
John Stevens, (Solar Century)
Will Cottrell (Brighton Energy Co-op)
More info here. Via: http://twitter.com/deal_withit

POLYCITY sustainable development
posted 19 Jun 2010, 00:38 by Eco Hub   [ updated 19 Jun 2010, 00:45 ]

POLYCITY is a project of the CONCERTO initiative, co-funded by the European Commission. In the course of the POLYCITY Project, three large urban areas in Germany, Spain and Italy will be developed, particularly in the field of energy optimisation and the use of renewable energies. 

The German project is the Scharnhauser Park in Ostfildern, a former military area. The most important measure in the Scharnhauser Park is the optimisation of a new biomass plant (combined heat and power). One of the targets is to use the residual heat to cool the office buildings in summer. Furthermore, all buildings will be equipped with optimal heat insulation to minimise heat loss in winter. It is planned to realise all measures between 2005 and 2010.

Beside the Scharnhauser Park there are two more urban areas involved: Cerdanyola del Vallès - a development area planned for 50.000 inhabitants north of Barcelona – and the Arquata in Turin, a labour district which will be restored with regard to ecological criteria. 

Each project is embedded in a network of regional Partners and further observer communities. This will guarantee a sustainable development of the projects and an effective exploitation of the results. More info available here. Via Euronews.

Earth’smart Green Office Seeks to Create Eco Hub in Sacramento
posted 15 Jun 2010, 08:26 by Eco Hub

Studios Architecture has designed a new green office, meeting, and exhibition space that aspires to become a hub of sustainability in the Sacramento area. Dubbed the Earth’smart building, the center would be an ideal place for individuals to converge in order to discuss, plan and work towards increased sustainability in the fields of construction, public policy, industry, investment, design, and education.

by Bridgette Meinhold of inhabitat.com - Full article available here.

Will Ford's Electric Car Strategy Succeed?
posted 15 Jun 2010, 08:05 by Eco Hub

Ford's strategy will allow it to easily switch between making conventional gas-powered cars and a range of other, different designs: diesel-powered cars, hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and electric vehicles. Rather than making a distinct plug-in hybrid electric vehicle model, as General Motors is doing with the Volt, which it will start selling at the end of this year, Ford plans to make a variety of electric propulsion options available on all of its top-selling cars worldwide.
"Going down the same assembly line, you can do battery electric, a plug-in hybrid, a hybrid, an efficient petrol, or an efficient diesel vehicle," says Nancy Gioia, Ford's director of global electrification. "That makes it very robust to what undoubtedly will be a volatile market for the next 10 years." Full article available at treehugger.com.

Local food and climate change report launched.
posted 14 Jun 2010, 10:15 by Eco Hub   [ updated 15 Jun 2010, 07:41 ]

Making Local Food Work launches new research report - 'Local food and climate change - The role of community food enterprises'. "Food accounts for at least a fifth of UK greenhouse gas  emissions and the sector faces the daunting challenge of reducing emissions by more than two thirds within the next forty years. Until recently, the focus of public and political debate around the contribution food makes to climate change was on transport. This saw local food become closely associated with tackling climate change and other environmental problems. A succession of life cycle assessments and scientific reviews over the past decade have highlighted that other factors besides transport, such as the use of energy intensive farm inputs or even cooking in the home, make a bigger overall difference to climate change." Download the report from Making Local Food Work

World’s Largest Concentrating Solar Power Plant to Come Up in Abu Dhabi
posted 14 Jun 2010, 10:09 by Eco Hub   [ updated 14 Jun 2010, 10:12 ]

A consortium of some of the most renowned energy companies in the world would construct the world’s largest concentrating solar power plant near Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. The plant would have a capacity of 100 MW.France’s oil company Total, one of the six ’super major’ oil companies in the world, and Spain’s Abengoa Solar will join hands with Abu Dhabi-based alternate energy company Masdar to build this power plant which would span 2.5 square meters ( one square mile). The project will be located in Madinat Zayed, about 120 kilometres (75 miles) southwest of Abu Dhabi. Read the full article here

This week's climate news from ISIS
posted 14 Jun 2010, 09:59 by Eco Hub   [ updated 14 Jun 2010, 10:06 ]

"This week’s News Scan which is a weekly summary of the major climate-change related science, technology, and policy advances of direct relevance to the B.C. (British Colombia) provincial and the Canadian federal governments and more generally to businesses and civil society. The News Scan focuses on cutting edge climate issues and solutions gathered by the fellows and faculty of ISIS, a research centre at the Sauder School of Business, in partnership with the Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS)." Note from EcoHub: Definitely worth a read! Click here for the full article. via http:twitter.com/climateconsult 

Environmental Sustainability Knowledge Transfer Network
posted 14 Jun 2010, 09:49 by Eco Hub

KTNs have been set up by the Technology Strategy Board to drive the flow of knowledge within, in and out of specific communities. KTNs are funded to bring together diverse organisations and provide activities and initiatives that promote the exchange of knowledge and the stimulation of innovation in these communities.  Their goals are to accelerate the UK’s transition to a low carbon, resource and energy efficient economy by connecting businesses, universities, other research organisations and government agencies, and catalysing innovation across a wide range of environmental technologies. The Environmental Sustainability Knowledge Transfer Network has four key priority action areas: 1. water management, 2. land management and food production, 3. resource efficiency and waste management and 4. renewable energy and carbon sequestration. More info is available from their website here.

Greenshoots: Towards Sustainable Cheltenham Festivals
posted 14 Jun 2010, 09:41 by Eco Hub   [ updated 15 Jun 2010, 07:53 ]

Greenshoots is Cheltenham Festivals project to create a more festival. "We want to reduce our environmental impact, research and adopt best practices, work with our partners and share our ideas as we embark on our journey towards greater sustainability." "Through our events we strive to be both entertaining and innovative, always exploring new ideas, always moving forward. It’s equally important to us that we challenge our environmental impact and explore ways to do things in the most sustainable manner." More information available here. See our photos of electric vehicles at the Cheltenham Festival by clicking here.

Team Green Britain Bike Week
posted 12 Jun 2010, 04:55 by Eco Hub

Team Green Britain Bike Week is an annual opportunity to promote cycling and show how cycling can easily be part of everyday life. Demonstrating the social, health and environmental benefits of cycling, the week aims to get people to give cycling a go all over the UK. This year we aim to make 'everyday cycling for everyone'!

More info available here

Battle of the Batteries: Comparing Electric Car Range, Charge Times
posted 9 Jun 2010, 01:36 by Eco Hub   [ updated 9 Jun 2010, 01:39 ]

Your mileage will vary — that’s one of the basic truths about driving, and it’s not about to change for electric vehicles. Depending on the climate, terrain, your driving style, vehicle maintenance and other factors, you can eke out, more or less, miles per gallon of gasoline. With electric vehicles, these factors will affect how far you can drive before it’s time to plug in and juice up.

With a gas station always at hand, it’s easy not to sweat how many miles you get on a full tank of gas. But with the upcoming generation of plug-in vehicles, automakers are battling what’s commonly referred to as “range anxiety” — prospective buyers’ valid concern that they might get stuck with a fast-depleting battery without a charge point in sight. As these vehicles have progressed through the development process, some data and anecdotes have emerged about how real-world performance compares to the range promised for various models. Full article from earth2tech.com here

Today is World Oceans Day! 7 Actions You Can Take Without Leaving Home
posted 9 Jun 2010, 01:25 by Eco Hub

Last year, the United Nations officially declared June 8 as World Oceans Day. It took 16 years, but it finally happened. And now, there's more reason than ever to make a big hubbub over the event. Our shorelines are undergoing some especially heartbreaking struggles thanks to the Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.

The theme for 2010 is “Our oceans: opportunities and challenges” -- we know so many of the challenges that face us. So today, let's take advantage of some opportunities to help.

More on World Ocean Day and Caring for Our Seas
Vote for Everyday Heroes Helping the Oceans...Last Chance!
9 Ways We Can Save the Ocean, and Save Ourselves
Oceans of Change: Protecting the Planet's Life Support System

Read the full article here

Just Enough
posted 8 Jun 2010, 20:46 by Eco Hub

Lessons in Living Green from Traditional Japan.

Just Enough, more than anything else, is about a mentality that once pervaded Japanese society and that can serve as a beacon for our own efforts to achieve sustainability today.

From these pages, readers will gain insight into what it is like to live in a sustainable society: how larger concerns can guide daily decisions and how social and environmental contexts shape our courses of action. The book illustrates the environmentally related problems that the people in both rural and urban areas faced, the conceptual frameworks in which they viewed these problems, and how they went about finding solutions. Included at the end of each section are a number of lessons in which the author elaborates on just what Edo period life has to offer us in the global battle to reverse environmental degradation.

More info here

ecotainer® Hot Cups and Lids
posted 8 Jun 2010, 20:16 by Eco Hub   [ updated 8 Jun 2010, 20:33 ]

The award winning ecotainer® hot cup is part of a revolutionary new line of foodservice packaging that provides a more environmentally sensitive alternative to traditional disposable packaging.  The new PLA (corn-based) coating makes this cup compostable in municipal and commercial composting facilities in comparison to traditional plastic coated disposable paper cups.
The new hot cup lid joins the ecotainer® family of products.  International Paper is the first company to market with a compostable cup and lid package produced completely in the United States.
Certified by the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, Biodegradable Products Institute, Din Certco, ASTM D6400 and the FDA.
More info here

New South Wales Government Greenhouse Gas Reduction Scheme latest news letter released
posted 8 Jun 2010, 10:12 by Eco Hub   [ updated 8 Jun 2010, 20:16 ]

"On 27 April the Commonwealth Government announced that it would delay the implementation of the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme until at least the end of Kyoto commitment period which finishes at the end of 2012. For some time now the NSW Government has advised that GGAS would continue until there is a national scheme introduced with similar objectives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.  In the absence of this, GGAS will continue until 2020 and beyond...."

Download the news letter: http://www.greenhousegas.nsw.gov.au/Documents/Newsletter_Issue16_June10.pdf

More info at: http://www.greenhousegas.nsw.gov.au

The Globe Eco-Hub, Modiin, Israel
posted 8 Jun 2010, 09:30 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 8 Jun 2010, 09:40 ]

"The Globe Eco-Hub uses eco means to demonstrate its targets. Smart sensors will control varied natural light via main south façade, for different effects on the exhibitions. Photo-voltaic cells are framed within the grass covered the cap of the main volume, reducing energy expenses. By submerging onto the site soil, a use of natural coolness while ventilating the inner spaces is achieved. Drinking & washing water will be used for irrigation of the landscape surrounded the site.
The hub is planned as a multi-use urban venue and on-going endeavor, using various means for both locals as visitors."
From / more info at http://www.worldarchitecturenews.com/index.php?fuseaction=wanappln.projectview&upload_id=12094

Futerra
posted 8 Jun 2010, 09:22 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 8 Jun 2010, 09:34 ]

"Futerra is a communications agency. We do the things great agencies do; have bright ideas, captivate audiences, build energetic websites one day and grab the attention of opinion formers the next. We're very good at it.But the real difference is that since our foundation in 2001, we’ve only ever worked on corporate responsibility and sustainability.

Sustainability, green, climate change, fair trade, ethical, CSR, eco-chic.
Lots of words for the biggest and most exciting thing happening right now. Unless you've been living on Mars you can't avoid the conversations that are currently taking place. Whether it's the biggest challenge of our lives, climate change, or the massive opportunities presented by the new 'ethical consumer', what Futerra's been doing for over eight years is hot.
Communications matter. Walking the talk is crucial, but you need to talk a bit more too. Professionalism and creativity are key to making this work. Futerra takes very seriously what we do, but serious doesn't mean dull.
Traditional and accepted messages tend to fail on this new issue. We don't want to re-invent the wheel, but in an era when car manufacturers have to totally re-think their engineering perhaps even wheels are in question. We know when a standard marketing 'product' will work, and when something totally new is needed."
From / more at http://www.futerra.co.uk/

Ecolite Technology Ltd
posted 8 Jun 2010, 09:11 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 8 Jun 2010, 09:34 ]

Ecolite Technology Ltd are Low Energy LED Lighting Specialists. "We are one of the UK’s leading specialists in low energy LED lighting products and systems. Our energy saving products provides equivalent light output to halogen lamps with up to 90% saving in energy consumption.  This means that our customers electricity costs are dramatically reduced along with their carbon footprint. We typically work with Retailers, Industry, SME's, Hotels, Offices, Government, B2B and many more."

More at http://www.ecolitetechnology.co.uk/

EcoLabs propose EcoHub for Transition Town Brixton
posted 4 Jun 2010, 07:20 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 8 Jun 2010, 09:38 ]

EcoLabs intend to make the first EcoHub in Brixton central square in front of Lambeth Town Hall (South London, UK). EcoHubs need to be visible, accessible and intriguing physical spaces. EcoLabs has launched this project hoping to attract architects who will help us design and then build a low cost, open-source community hub for Transition Town Brixton. 

EcoLabs aims to nurture whole systems thinking, foster ecological literacy, and create an alternative cultural vision that will drive transformational change to meet the goals of a fully sustainable society. We are a not for profit network ofdesigners and visual artists who create materials, projects and programs that support ecological literacy. We aim to:
- Engage diverse audiences with environmental information with visual displays.
- Investigate issues lying at the root of our ecological crisis and suggest solutions.
- Visualize global warming in compelling ways and communicate a sense of urgency.
- Embed ecological literacy into the cultural, communications and design industries.
- Provide a resource, network and a platform for engaged designers and visual artists.
More at: http://www.eco-labs.org/dev/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=98&Itemid=86

YouGen
posted 3 Jun 2010, 19:35 by Eco Hub   [ updated 8 Jun 2010, 20:52 ]

YouGen is here to make it easy for you to improve the energy efficiency of your home, find a suitable renewable energy technology and buy with confidence. Use the site to:

Find out the truth about renewable energy from an independent source. We assess the latest research and compile information from a wide range of sources, so it’s easy for you to choose the right technology for your home. Read the tips from our Energy Experts, ask one a question and learn from other people’s comments. Help others by sharing your experience of renewable energy or recommending your supplier. Find people who have already installed the technology you’re interested in or find a local supplier to install it for you. Add information about your company, so that it will appear in search results and customers can recommend you.

Microgeneration (whether it’s a solar panel, wind turbine or biomass boiler) looks increasingly attractive as energy prices rise, climate chaos threatens, and we rely on fewer countries to supply our oil and gas. Wind, sun, and water are abundant and free sources of renewable energy. It just makes sense to use them to make your own heat and power.

From http://www.yougen.co.uk/

Dinner in the Rainforest with the Australian Rainforest Foundation
posted 2 Jun 2010, 22:03 by Eco Hub   [ updated 8 Jun 2010, 09:36 by Toby Roscoe ]

The Australian Rainforest Foundation is hosting a fundraising dinner at the Daintree Drifter's Rainforest Retreat in the Daintree Rainforest, Tropical Far North Queensland, Australia.  Tickets are AUD250 per head. This is sure to be a spectacular occasion!!

A flyer for the event can be downloaded below. 

You can call the Australian Rainforest Foundation on +61 (0) 7 4051 2000 or see http://www.arf.net.aufor more info.

| Attachments:  Rainforest dinner.pdf
BRE Innovation Park
posted 2 Jun 2010, 21:37 by Eco Hub   [ updated 8 Jun 2010, 09:39 by Toby Roscoe ]

The BRE Innovation Park is a world leading and ground breaking demonstration development designed to give a glimpse of how the future delivery of sustainable buildings and communities can be achieved not only in the UK but around the world.It features seven of the world's most sustainable houses (built to the Code for sustainable homes), a health centre of the future and over 300 different construction innovations and emerging technologies as well as a state of the art community landscape design.
Collectively these projects demonstrate diverse and innovative approaches to sustainable design and construction. They each share the common goal of having a low impact on the environment but a high impact on the quality of life of building and community occupants and CO2 emissions reduction.
More at http://www.bre.co.uk/page.jsp?id=634


Win a set of pillow cases in 100% organic cotton
posted 2 Jun 2010, 21:24 by Eco Hub   [ updated 8 Jun 2010, 09:39 by Toby Roscoe ]

Fou furnishings Facebook Competition
Win a set of pillow cases in 100% organic cotton from organic bedding specialists, fou furnishings. To see more details and enter, simply visit www.foufurnishings.com home page and click on the competition banner then read on to find out how to enter.
 
Answer a simple question and email the answer to info@foufurnishings.com. Let us know that you like our Facebook organic bed linen page and that you are attending the competition. All answers are strictly confidential. The closing date for the competition is the 21st of June. The lucky winner will be drawn out of an 'organic' hat and informed by email by the 22nd of June.

The Green Providers Directory
posted 2 Jun 2010, 21:20 by Eco Hub   [ updated 8 Jun 2010, 09:38 by Toby Roscoe ]

The Green Providers Directory is the UK's leading resource for finding green, organic and fair trade products and services. We are a not-for-profit directory whose aim is to encourage more people to buy from ethical and sustainable sources. All the companies listed in our directory have been vetted so that you can be sure of their eco-friendly credentials. Our directory is free and easy to use - providing everything you need for sustainable living under one roof!

From http://www.search-for-me.co.uk/

New support programme for local action from Low Carbon Communities Network
posted 2 Jun 2010, 21:15 by Eco Hub   [ updated 8 Jun 2010, 09:40 by Toby Roscoe ]

LCCN is launching a new training and support programme open to any group. We aim to use existing skills within Low Carbon Communities across England and focus on sharing those skills through Mentoring and ‘Buddying’.

Mentoring is a proven system for building skills and avoiding burn-out. Buddying is a simpler system where someone coordinating a group is linked with someone in a similar role and supported to discuss their work, share ideas etc..

We’re looking for:

People who would like to be mentors for people who are new (or newish) to running local climate action / low carbon groups. If you’ve been involved for some years and would like to share and refresh your skills this could be for you!

People who would like to be mentored. If you’re relatively new to local action and would like some one-to-one support and advice for a few months, then this is for you.

People who’d like to be ‘buddys’. Buddying is about putting two groups in touch with one another, getting them to understand what each other are doing, share ideas and even problems, and maybe plan some joint activities.

From http://lowcarboncommunities.net/2010/06/01/new-support-programme-for-local-action/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+LowCarbonCommunities+%28Low+Carbon+Communities%29

Eco-Hub Proposed for Gamlingay, Bedfordshire, UK.
posted 2 Jun 2010, 19:18 by Eco Hub   [ updated 6 Jun 2010, 23:42 ]
The Gamlingay Eco-Hub, so named for the use of its new and inspiring environmental and ecological technologies and design is a project led by Architect, Dan Jones from CIVIC Architects.
The project is both exciting and inspiring and hopes to breathe back new life into the growing village of Gamlingay by regenerating an area once (and currently still) thought of as delapidated and underused.
The new scheme boasts 4 large multi-functional spaces which can be used for a whole host of diverse functions; from Ballet, dance, pillates and badminton to business conferences, quiet reading, internet research and toddler pre-school uses.
The project owes itself to a much needed array of facilities which have surpassed the currently condemned and exhausted building which currently resides off Stocks Lane, Gamlingay.
From http://gjlonline.co.uk/eco_eco-hub.htm

Sustainable Promotional Products from Eco Incentives
posted 2 Jun 2010, 19:05 by Eco Hub   [ updated 6 Jun 2010, 23:52 ]
Eco Incentives bring a fresh approach to promotional merchandise, supplying promotional items and business gifts that are ecologically sound and environmentally aware.
Corporate Social Responsibility is high on the agenda, with many organisations having environmental targets to meet. Eco Incentives make it a simple one-stop shop, with promotional products made from recycled, organic, sustainable or ethically sourced materials. Never before has such a comprehensive range of environmentally friendly promotional items been available from a single source.
More info at http://www.ecoincentives.com

Thompson Habitats
posted 2 Jun 2010, 19:01 by Eco Hub   [ updated 6 Jun 2010, 23:53 ]

Thomson Habitats undertakes all ecological contracting projects. We design, create, and restore habitats for wildlife. This includes creating hibernacula for reptiles and ponds for great crested newts, replanting trees and hedgerows, developing wetland areas following civil engineering work and dealing with invasive plants such as Japanese knotweed and giant hogweed.We are a team of experienced professionals focussing on the practical realisation of projects and we are backed by the well respected ecology expertise and GIS mapping capability within Thomson Ecology.
Together we are a one stop shop for all ecology services. Our concern is to meet your needs.
We believe that there is a requirement for a specialist ecological contracting company that has genuine sensitivity to and understanding of seasonal and other constraints when working with wildlife and habitats. Thomson Habitats fills this gap. 
More info at: http://www.thomsonhabitats.com

1% for the Planet
posted 2 Jun 2010, 18:54 by Eco Hub   [ updated 2 Jun 2010, 18:59 ]

Not long ago, a mountain climber and a fisherman realized they had a lot more in common than a disdain for wearing a suit to work. Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, and Craig Mathews, owner of Blue Ribbon Flies, were also passionate environmentalists that happened to be running successful businesses. More important, they understood it was good business to protect the natural resources that kept them in business.

1% for the Planet exists to build and support an alliance of businesses financially committed to creating a healthy planet. In 2010 there are more than 1,200 members in 38 countries. 

Check out  http://www.onepercentfortheplanet.org for more info.

New .eco domain proposed!
posted 2 Jun 2010, 18:41 by Eco Hub   [ updated 2 Jun 2010, 18:44 ]

Sometime in the next two years, hundreds of new domain name endings will be created, so in addition to .com or .org you'll be able to choose from many options, including an eco-friendly option, when you want to buy a domain name.
What are the rules for .eco names? Who can get one? When can we take it away? Is there a .eco foundation? What should the money be used for? 
These are tough questions, and they need good answers. We could keep these rules secret until we apply for dot eco, but instead we've posted them up here for anyone to read.
It's our way of saying we care about transparency, and are stronger with your input. So have at us! Click the below to find out and discuss what .eco should be. 
The third draft of dot eco policies is now available for review and public comment. Comments will be summarised and shared with the Dot Eco Stakeholder Council. This round is open until Friday, May 28, 2010. THIRD DRAFT DOT ECO POLICIES
1. Principles: the core principles that define .eco;
2. Names: how the .eco registry handles premium, controversial and other names;
3. Registration: how users register .eco names and the questions they are asked;
4. Accountability: covering how trust in .eco is maintained and enforced; and
5. Foundation: covering how the philanthropic arm of .eco functions.
This is part of a global policy development process to build a consensus for stewardship of the Dot Eco TLD. The process will seek to comply with the ISEAL Code of Good Practice for Setting Environmental and Social Standards.
From http://doteco.info/

Greenopolis
posted 1 Jun 2010, 10:18 by Eco Hub   [ updated 1 Jun 2010, 10:22 ]
Greenopolis makes a very simple – yet powerful – promise to you, our user:
We are about doing good.Specifically, our goal is to provide you with information and tools to:

• Help you to recycle easily
• Help to save our natural resources for our children’s children
• Track conservation through recycling and re-use
• Educate and reward conservation

Through both our On-Line site of Greenopolis and our physical, On-Street presence of Greenopolis Recycling Kiosks, we allow our customers to do actual, “trackable” good for the planet. We also try to make your everyday life better by offering rewards for helping the world and changing the way we handle natural resource and recyclables.
Our overriding desire is to actually make the world a better place rather than just pointing out problems. To that end, you’ll find a new tone to the content you find on Greenopolis. Whether it’s a blog post, video, infographic, podcast, tweet or email message, our content will be:

• Positive – We don’t want to fall into the trap of always trashing others and offering no real solutions. We embrace individuals, organizations and businesses who are working to make a difference in the world. We offer positive solutions, opinions and documentation to help change the world in a real and meaningful way.

• Focused on Recycling, Reusing, Repurposing, Waste-to-Resource or Conservation – We can’t be all things to all audiences, so we must tighten our focus onto what we do best, and onto what works best with our online/offline/real-time capabilities. We also recognize the world is changing – and that means the green customer is changing – and we promise to serve the needs of you, our audience.

• Fun to read – Rather than being earnest and negative, we strive to make our content entertaining. This doesn’t mean all of our content is humorous, but rather that it’s something you enjoy reading or watching. For instance, our recent story of converting SUVs into baby incubatorswas a serious story about a very serious subject, but the tone of the writing and inclusion of an uplifting video created an enjoyable experience.

• Visually interesting – Our stories are paired with beautiful pictures, arresting videos and presented in an attractive and easy-to-use format. We believe the visual cues and information for all content is as important as the words on the page.

• Provide links to more information – If, as we state above, that we can’t be all things to all people, then we owe you an easy way to find out more. That’s why we offer links to content on other sites that will help you to understand the story more fully.

By always keeping you in mind and working to include these five components in every piece of content we create, we can ensure that a Greenopolis story always feels like a “Greenopolis Story.” We believe this is the only way we can protect the trust you place in us and to earn your business everyday.
More at http://greenopolis.com

EcoHub, Inc. is being launched to serve the immediate needs of San Diego’s clean-tech start-up companies
posted 1 Jun 2010, 10:02 by Eco Hub   [ updated 1 Jun 2010, 10:09 ]

EcoHub, Inc., a subsidiary of EINI, Inc., plans to develop infrastructure in the form of office space and provide essential business services to green startups to foster innovation and show the world how to make money from the growing market demand for these services. The address is 4542 Ruffner Street, Suite 170, San Diego, California, 92111. Please call 1-888-277-6304 and dial "0" to leave a message, and a representative will contact you shortly. This is the office space of choice for small environmental ventures.

More at: http://ecohub.groupsite.com/main/summary

Eco-hub facility in Southend-on-Sea
posted 1 Jun 2010, 09:57 by Eco Hub   [ updated 1 Jun 2010, 10:00 ]
With the help of the Southend YMCA, young, disadvantaged entrepreneurs will be given a fighting chance, thanks to the conversion of a dilapidated building into a brand new eco-hub facility providing affordable workspace, meeting rooms and conference facilities.

Visit http://westclifftransition.wordpress.com/2010/03/28/eco-hub-facility-in-southend-on-sea/ for more details.

Eco-hub for disadvantaged entrepreneurs in East of England
posted 1 Jun 2010, 09:49 by Eco Hub   [ updated 1 Jun 2010, 09:53 ]
Setting up your own environmentally-friendly business can be challenging enough, but in a tough economic climate, and little experience, success can be even harder to achieve.
However, with the help of the Southend YMCA, young disadvantaged entrepreneurs will be given a fighting chance, thanks to the conversion of a dilapidated building into a brand new eco-hub facility providing affordable workspace, meeting rooms and conference facilities.The old St John's Stables, in Southend, are set to be transformed into the new eco-hub, which will provide vital support to help fledgling businesses during a crucial stage in their development.
From http://www.eeda.org.uk/4777.asp

Australian Rainforest Foundation
posted 1 Jun 2010, 09:14 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 1 Jun 2010, 09:26 by Eco Hub ]

The Australian Rainforest Foundation (ARF) is an incorporated not-for-profit organisation dedicated to education, research and habitat rehabilitation for Australia's rainforests.
The ARF builds global awareness and support for Australia's rainforests by funding enhancement programs made possible through investment, sponsorship and donations from corporate and private citizens.
Although endorsed and supported by the Commonwealth and Queensland Governments the ARF believes that Australia's Rainforests can not survive without the help of 'every day' citizens from Australia and around the world.
From http://www.arf.net.au

Bic Eco Plastic Solutions
posted 28 May 2010, 19:18 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 1 Jun 2010, 08:46 by Eco Hub ]

Bic is now offering eco stationary and shaving solutions! Wheck out http://www.ecolutions.com for more details:Shaving:BIC®, as an expert in precision plastic molding, has been developing alternatives to oil-based plastics for years.  BIC® ecolutionsTM  shaver is our first step towards a greener, environmentally-friendly shave.BIOPLASTIC

• After five years of extensive research and development, BIC® identified a natural renewable material (Bioplastic) from which we were able to produce our precision shaver handle without compromising our product’s quality.
• Bioplastic, a common name for PLA (Poly Lactic Acid), is made from corn without oil-based additives.
• BIC® is further developing additional renewable and sustainable raw materials that can be used toward minimizing environmental impact.

BIO-PIGMENTS

• Bio-pigments of vegetable origin give this shaver a distinct green color.

LONG-LASTING PERFORMANCE

• With its three telomer-coated blades each BIC® ecolutionsTM shaver offers up to 10 great shaves.

Stationary:
BIC® ecolutions™ products are a new line of stationery products - specifically designed using recycled materials. But, for BIC, we have long maintained a commitment to the environment - which can be seen across many of our existing products. Being light (less use of raw materials) and refillable are just a couple of the ways BIC has made a commitment to the environment.
A “Light & Long Lasting” product is a product that is fundamentally light weight and also has a very long write out. This value is evaluated by the calculation of dividing the total weight of the product by its writing length. If the resulting ratio is less than 3 g/km, the product can be called “Light & Long Lasting
 From: http://www.ecolutions.com 

Simply Pure Eco Smart Washing
posted 28 May 2010, 10:58 by Eco Hub   [ updated 28 May 2010, 11:06 ]

Simply Pure Eco Smart Washing could talk forever about their green credentials and ask you to take our word for it. But we think an independent opinion is much more persuasive. So we asked for an unbiased view from the very top – and that’s how we got the thumbsup from the European Union and Defra.

Check out these links for more info:
http://www.simplywashing.com/eco_label/
http://www.simplywashing.com/simply_green/
http://www.simplywashing.com/vegan/
KeepCup
posted 28 May 2010, 10:06 by Eco Hub   [ updated 28 May 2010, 10:08 ]

What's wrong with disposable cups?
Most disposable paper cups are not recyclable.
The paper cup is made from a composite of materials: kraft bleached paper sprayed with a polyethylene coating. Paper cups are often impregnated with toxic dyes which make them difficult to recycle. The plastic lining in disposable paper cups means they are not recyclable.
In arid regions like Australia, biodegradation of a paper cup can take 50 years or more.
It's not just the cup and lid that go into landfill. On average, each disposable cup contains 5% of the raw materials involved in the process of making and delivering it.
It is a choice. We can destroy fewer trees and reduce landfill, CO2 and energy output.
Small acts can make a big difference - for better and for worse. The environmental impact of all single use items is great. Through good design and a little effort we can easily incorporate reuse into our daily routine.
From http://www.keepcup.com.au

Manchester Environmental Resource Centre initiative
posted 27 May 2010, 23:42 by Eco Hub   [ updated 28 May 2010, 10:10 ]

We are an independent charity (established in 1996) working to turn ideas into action for a more sustainable future - by this, we mean a future that is greener, safer, healthier and more equitable.You can help to create this future by volunteering with us, holding your meetings and conferences at Bridge 5 Mill, working in partnership with us, renting office space at Bridge 5 Mill, participating in our projects and spreading the news.
Bridge 5 Mill is Manchester's first Centre for Change. This converted mill in Ancoats provides a focal point for debate and action around sustainability. It is home to a range of charities, campaign groups and green businesses. The centre provides community resources including conference and meeting rooms, a library, equipment hire and offices for voluntary groups and social enterprises.

From http://www.merci.org.uk/


The Eco Village
posted 27 May 2010, 23:37 by Eco Hub   [ updated 27 May 2010, 23:40 ]

Kent County Show

Sarah's Fleeces
posted 27 May 2010, 23:29 by Eco Hub   [ updated 28 May 2010, 11:07 ]

Lowering our carbon footprintWe also like to make our products as eco-friendly as possible which is why we use fleece as it's partially made out of recycled water bottles! How cool is that? We also use address labels that are donated by a local factory, they're end of line unprinted labels that would otherwise be recycled. Our postage bags are made out of recycled plastic. We are always looking for more ways to reduce, re-use and recycle without compromising on quality.

Ethical Employment
I have a passion for providing ethical employment, particularly for those wanting to get back into work after having had children or who might otherwise find regular employment difficult for whatever reason. We have people who work from home making their own hours according to how much they can take on. This means that we can work around our other commitments without being tied to strict working hours. The idea is to empower people to be able to earn their own income without the constraints of child care, school holidays, disability, prejudice etc.

So by buying from us you can rest assured that you are helping provide good ethical employment and getting a green product.
From http://www.sarahsfleeces.co.uk

Contact:

Sarah@SarahsFleeces.co.uk

Customer Services Tel - 01424 422457

The Greener Company
posted 27 May 2010, 23:18 by Eco Hub   [ updated 27 May 2010, 23:28 ]

The Greener Company we boast one of the biggest Wood Burning stoves & Multifuel stove showrooms in the UK offering over 100 displays aiding you in understanding the size, quality, finish and texture of our products better and helping you make the right decisions best suited to you and your home. Below is just a glimpse of our wall to wall wood burning stoves, it really is worth a trip.

Becoming Greener Inc.
posted 27 May 2010, 23:13 by Eco Hub   [ updated 27 May 2010, 23:16 ]

BecomingGreen, Inc.™ was founded by two entrepreneurs wanting to make a difference and do the right thing. After owning an Interior Design firm and a Kitchen and Bath design firm, Tina Chaphe and Isa Antepara, believe that the signs of the economic and environmental times require us to act now.Most training programs are taught by business professionals with training backgrounds. Chaphe and Antepara recognized their responsibility to contribute to the sustainable design awareness, proficiency and innovation. With design experience and an enormous amount of Green Education, they realized the need for a training program that would truly help others implement their ideas and beliefs in their work and home environments while launching or enhancing an exciting career.
We may all want to Go Green, but most don’t know where to start. The maze of web programs, books, and products to help people go Green proves to be confusing and, oftentimes, overwhelming. There is great demand, but proper training is lacking.
Our Green Consultants train professionals and provide the sources that will help the consumer make environmentally helpful choices and see that every green action they take has a measurable impact on the environment.
From http://www.becominggreeninc.com

Glebe Cottage... the eco-friendly card company
posted 27 May 2010, 22:55 by Eco Hub   [ updated 27 May 2010, 22:58 ]

Glebe Cottage
We are a family run business and specialise in publishing high quality eco-friendly greetings cards. We select distinctive artwork, and hope you and your customers sense and share the inspiration we find in these images. We also undertake select bespoke commissions for organisations such as English Heritage, The Forestry Commission and many charities.

Blazing a trail
Over the last few years we have been blazing a trail for an environmentally responsible greetings card industry. In October 2007 we were invited to speak to the Greeting Card Association AGM about how and why we became the leading publisher of eco-friendly greetings cards. 

Long-standing commitment
On a personal level, we’ve always had a passion for the environment and much of our inspiration is quite literally drawn from nature. In business we started our environmental journey back in the mid 90’s when we switched to the exclusive use of 100% recycled envelopes. The logic was simple; why cut down trees to make envelopes that will only make one journey before they are ripped open, screwed up and thrown away? 

Holistic approach
We have moved on a long way since then. We were the first publisher to switch to compostable packaging back in 2006, and the first direct-to-retail publisher to obtain FSC certification. We have made wide ranging eco-commitments that apply to all of our products; these include the elimination of pollutants like industrial alcohol, and the use of green energy. In 2008, we became the UK’s first CarbonNeutral® greetings card company and won Gold for environmental best practice in printing and publishing at the Green Apple Awards. We are always looking for ways to minimise our environmental impact and have recently started using a compostable laminate on some of our stationery lines and compostable cellulose labels. 

Dispelling myths
Through the high quality of our products we want to dispel any lingering myths that environmentally responsible publishing has to equate to dull colour and poor quality, or that it has to look recycled, or be more expensive. We have no doubts that the greeting card industry can be cleaner and greener; and that in turn, it can encourage a greener print industry. The environmental genie is definitely out of the bottle and environmental awareness is greater than ever; the question is, how will the greeting card industry respond? 

Positive choices
We are offering card buyers positive environmental choices, because we think they have a really exciting role to play in encouraging a greener card industry. Naturally there have to be green products in the market place before consumers can make green choices; and that is the choice that we are making possible. 

Changing the world
We are not experts on green issues and we know we are not perfect. But we are very positive about the future because we believe consumers can change the way that businesses think about the environment. In essence, everyone can help to make the world a little bit greener, even if it is just one card at a time!

From http://www.glebecottagestudio.co.uk/

Jigsawzbitz
posted 27 Apr 2010, 05:03 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 1 Jun 2010, 09:04 by Eco Hub ]

Made from environmentally friendly recycled paper components which can then be recycled again!
Sturdy but light, these honeycomb core structures can be customised with water based paints and varnish, solvent free digital printing and more.
Jigsawzbitz products are part of a green design programme using materials made from recycled paper. It is itself recyclable.

• Its fire retardant treatment does not harm the environment.
• The partially visible honeycomb pattern is a unique decorative element.
• It’s easy to assemble.
• Comes in several standard pieces or bespoke work undertaken to your specification.
• Made from 100% recycled paper fibres which can then be 100% recycled.
• It’s unique and fun. A statement of your commitment to sustainability and ethical awareness.

Green Drinks
posted 11 Apr 2010, 01:52 by Eco Hub   [ updated 11 Apr 2010, 01:56 ]

Every month people who work in the environmental field meet up at informal sessions known as Green Drinks.
We have a lively mixture of people from NGOs, academia, government and business. Come along and you'll be made welcome. Just say, "are you green?" and we will look after you and introduce you to whoever is there. It's a great way of catching up with people you know and also for making new contacts. Everyone invites someone else along, so there’s always a different crowd, making Green Drinks an organic, self-organising network.
These events are very simple and unstructured, but many people have found employment, made friends, developed new ideas, done deals and had moments of serendipity. It's a force for the good and we'd like to help it spread to other cities. Contact your local node to get the latest info about coming along.
If there is no Green Drinks near you, you might want to set up a Green Drinks in your City.
http://www.greendrinks.org 

Ecohip.org
posted 11 Apr 2010, 00:17 by Eco Hub   [ updated 11 Apr 2010, 00:23 ]

EcoHip has a simple philosophy – to offer you to the best natural products around, so you can maintain a chemical-free home, body and spirit.
And the name EcoHip? Founder Steve Chasan explains: “The word hip means ‘now’ or ‘happening’. We believe the time is right to come together and start a green revolution.”
Because EcoHip is about more than just selling products. It’s a new way of looking at the world, believing that small steps gradually add up to making a big difference.
EcoHip is the brainchild of Steve and Gabrielle Chasan. When Steve and Gabsy got together back in 1995, they discovered that they not only shared an interest in environmental issues but had also suffered from allergies in the past. Dissatisfied with the soaps and detergents on the market, they decided to do something about it.

C-Change
posted 28 Mar 2010, 04:01 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 28 Mar 2010, 04:03 by Eco Hub ]

The Project C-Change has three thematic strands, community engagement, open space adaptation and influencing spatial planning. Each theme has a dedicated 'work package' and a programme of transnational learning activities involving all partners. The project was officially launched in September 2009, visit the launch conference page for more information and photos of the event.
C-Change is a transnational territorial cooperation project funded under priority 4 of the European Union's INTERREG IVB Programme.
The C-CHANGE Partnership incorporates national, regional and local government players representing city regions with major economic significance in Europe. It is led by Groundwork London, an NGO internationally recognised as an expert in the field of engaging communities in sustainable development through environmental action.

Earth Hour 2010. 8.30pm 27 March
posted 15 Feb 2010, 08:34 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 11 Apr 2010, 00:42 by Eco Hub ]

On Saturday 27 March 2010 at 8.30pm, we want a billion people around the world to switch off their lights for one hour – WWF’s Earth Hour. Show you care about climate change.
Sign upto support people and wildlife threatened by climate change. Watch the WWF-UK video below to find out more...
Why WWF cares
Climate change is one of the most serious threats facing people and nature, and demands urgent global action. Unless we prevent average temperatures rising 2°C above pre-industrial levels, we face a high risk of severe and irreversible changes in the planet’s natural systems. Find out more.
Global impact

Watch the video below to see how Earth Hour has grown into a global event and hopes to be even bigger and better in 2010.
Get involved!
Sign up, switch off and spread the word.

You can register as an individual, organisation, school or business.And once registered, you will receive information on what you can do to become more involved in WWF’s Earth Hour, including useful resources and tips.
​
The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
posted 15 Feb 2010, 08:03 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 15 Feb 2010, 08:24 by Eco Hub ]

The IUCN Species Programme working with the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC) has for more than four decades been assessing the conservation status of species, subspecies, varieties, and even selected subpopulations on a global scale in order to highlight taxa threatened with extinction, and therefore promote their conservation. Although today we are operating in a very different political, economic, social and ecological world from that when the first IUCN Red Data Book was produced, the IUCN Species Programme, working with the Species Survival Commission and many partners, remains firmly committed to providing the world with the most objective, scientifically-based information on the current status of globally threatened biodiversity. 

​International Year of Biodiversity: 2010
posted 15 Feb 2010, 07:58 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 15 Feb 2010, 08:09 by Eco Hub ]

The United Nations declared 2010 to be the International Year of Biodiversity. It is a celebration of life on earth and of the value of biodiversity for our lives. The world is invited to take action in 2010 to safeguard the variety of life on earth: biodiversity.
http://www.cbd.int/2010/welcome/

The Countryside Council for Wales
posted 15 Feb 2010, 07:05 by Toby Roscoe   [ updated 15 Feb 2010, 07:44 by Eco Hub ]
The Countryside Council for Wales is the Government's statutory advisor on sustaining natural beauty, wildlife and the opportunity for outdoor enjoyment in Wales and its inshore waters.

CCW champions the environment and landscapes of Wales and its coastal waters as sources of natural and cultural riches, as a foundation for economic and social activity, and as a place for leisure and learning opportunities. We aim to make the environment a valued part of everyone's life in Wales.

http://www.ccw.gov.uk/