Climate Change
Big in the news this week are the floods that are affecting part of the country. Isn’t this what was predicted as part of climate change? Are we worried enough to do anything about it yet? And are we doing enough?
Green Initiatives
In Scotland, Lothian Buses have just put 15 eco-friendly buses on the road, and are planning more.
North London’s Brent borough has seen the opening of three new branches of Streetcar “car club”. This gives people the option of using a car when they need one, but not having to have the fuss of owning a car, and relieving traffic congestion and pressure on parking spaces. Access to a “car club” has been the deciding factor for some in their decision not to buy their own car, or to buy a second car in the case of some families.
Cranleigh in Surrey is planning to help its residents shop green by introducing a special Cranleigh re-usable shopping bag, available from local retailers, and promoting local shopping. Their inspiration has come from Modbury in Devon, a town that has become something of a tourist attraction since their ban on plastic bags.
On the subject of packaging, Tesco’s consumer poll has shown that cereal boxes are considered to be the most eco-friendly form of packaging. The poll also showed that 77% would be willing to pay a refundable deposit, and 60% would use refillable containers. Imagine if supermarkets offered those options, wouldn’t it be great?
New York City has just opened its first green theatre complete with recycled glass tiles, bamboo plywood, low flush toilets, rooftop solar panels and energy-efficient glass windows. They are even serving organic beer and wine during interval.
Green Technology
ASUS has launched the EcoBook, an eco-friendly laptop made of bamboo. (via Traends! blog)
Competition
The Federation of Master Builders is looking for East Anglia’s greenest builder. Householders who have had building work carried out and who think that their builder knows his insulation from his solar panels can nominate him (or her) for the energy efficiency category of the Master Builder of the Year awards. If the builder that you nominate wins, you will win a holiday worth £3,000. Enter here.
Green Gifts that other bloggers have recommended this week
Keetsa! Blog likes recycled bottle cap fridge magnets by Love Eco.
If you’re looking for wedding present or house-warming gift for a lucky someone, check out this recycled stainless steel cutlery set, as featured on Hippy Shopper.
That’s all for this week folks! Wishing you all a terrific weekend.