DIGIMAG
simply
ISSUE 1 • 2014
REVOLUTION
3D
solar & energy solutions
earth hour
Cape Town World Design Capital 2014
FOR OF water Waterwise Kids
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SG 2
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10 l 20 enta nm sm iro nali v En our ard J Aw er nn Wi
Inside
ican Afr ited uth Lim e So ies Th er Brew
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News
Building & Home
10 General
36 Bruce Kerswill – GBC 40 The house that sustainability built 45 The AR9000 Air Conditioner 50 LED lighting design 52 Building News
Design 18 Cape Town World Design Capital 2014 22 3D revolution 27 Inspire Design 30 Nanotech update
Water & Conservation
simply Leading the eco-lifestyle www.simplygreen.co.za • admin@simplygreen.co.za Cape Town Office • P O Box 30946, Tokai, 7966 Tel 27 (0) 21 713 0018 or 27 (0) 21 712 4665 082 579 7915 • Fax 27 (0) 21 715 2809 SG 4
DIGIMAG
56 Why worry about water?
64 Project 90x2030 68 Intaka Island 74 For the love of water 76 Water News 80 Orange River Project 172 Biodegradable plastics
Energy & Solar 86 CSP in SA 90 Solar News
Publisher & Executive Editor Chris Erasmus publisher@simplygreen.co.za
Assistant Editor Lenard Roos studio1@simplygreen.co.za
Consulting Editor Nicole Sherwin editor@simplygreen.co.za
National Sales Consultant Kyle Villet kyle@simplygreen.co.za
Creative Director Silke Erasmus admin@simplygreen.co.za
Studio Manager Kevin Rule studio2@simplygreen.co.za
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Issue 1 • 2014 Volume 7 No.1 •
68 56 95 Solar products 106 Sustania 112 SAEEC winners 116 Energy News 118 Motoring News 122 Woolworths eco-label
Food & Health
131 Coconut products 134 Food products
Garden 138 Jane Griffiths 162 Chameleons & honeybees 168 Garden News 169 Growing for life
Fashion
Regulars
143 Eco-fashion 148 Levi's
150 DSTV green shows 79 Eco-Apps 178 Green Listings 176 Book reviews
Kids 152 On Safari 158 Waterwise kids
126 Coconut & you
GS
Webmaster Garry Doel web@simplygreen.co.za
GREEN SPACES PUBLISHING
Publishing House Green Spaces Publishing House
Disclaimer Opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publishers or staff.
Webdesign Michael-Ray Erasmus webdesign@simplygreen.co.za Accounts Tracy Lee Nash accounts@simplygreen.co.za
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and is copyright protected worldwide. Material published in Simply Green, including all artwork, may not be reproduced without the permission of the editor. ISSN 1998-1309
2/20/2008 3:51:48 PM
SOUTH AFRICA'S ENVIRONMENTAL CAMPAIGN www.indaloyethu.co.za
Flagship Member
5 SG
PUBLISHEr's VIEW SG 6
There's a lot going on in the world right now.
But anyone who isn't obsessing on one of a half-dozen global news stories (at the time of writing, these include a mysteriously missing passenger plane, a geopolitical showdown in the Crimea and a murder trial of tragic proportions) will surely have noticed the growing background drumbeat of weather, weather, weather. That's because the weather has, in its own right, become the single most dominant news story more or less anywhere on the planet that you are located. Right now, you may be having or just had record cold, heat, rain, snow, floods, droughts, hurricanes, typhoons or other storms and/or a range of other weather-related events. Your local news will be full of it, but beyond the odd mention here and there, you would struggle to realise – should you be a visitor from another planet, say, and you were trying to figure out what was going on globally with our weather – just what was happening. The very short answer is something is happening almost everywhere. Something unusual, that is. Obviously, there are places on the planet where not much has happened recently, or even in thousands of year. But they are very few and very far apart. Everywhere else, from North America to Europe and Asia, from Central and South America (the latter is having a record drought over the Amazon's watershed, in case you didn't know) to sundry parts of Africa (the south-eastern part, including a section of Namibia and SA's Limpopo province, primarily, are having record rains, with accompanying floods) and Australasia are all in the grip, or have recently been so, of some or other type of 'atypical' weather. Indeed, the weather has graduated from being the default topic to which one may turn when the conversation becomes stilted or dries up (excuse the pun), to being a 'hot' topic, given the extremes we are seeing. And the reason is really very simple. After some 7 500 years or so of stable climate, with a few odd spot exceptions here and there, the planet's long weather 'quiet spell' is over. This long-term and, from a geological and ice core sample data perspective, rather unusual period of stability is rapidly coming to an end, if it has not already done so. Whatever else may be behind the end of what we might in the future call modern mankind's 'kind weather millennia', we ourselves are part of what's driving the weather into a more disturbed, less predictable and more extreme pattern. The National Climate Data Centre in the US has recently released a report which confirms everything that the latest Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has also pointed to. Human inputs into the climate, primarily through greenhouse gases like CO2, methane and a few others, are at least in part to blame. The more we look at climate and weather patterns, the better our computer models get and the faster we can process the huge volumes of data being captured daily in temperature, wind, currents, solar radiation absorption and the many other parameters being closely watched by thousands of scientists worldwide, the more we understand that humankind is playing and has played a major role in the situation now before us. There are those who talk about a 1m sea level rise by the end of the 21st century. That may seem a long way off, though it really isn't when one understands that there's a decades-long lag effect between what we do now and how that plays out in global patterns. But putting aside what may be in 80 or so years' time, it's what's coming this year, the next one and one after that which is our immediate concern. Globally, food production is becoming harder. This is because commercially farmed land is getting harder and harder to exploit more productively using 20th century-style techniques such as nitrogen-based fertilisers, insecticides and herbicides. The soil in many places where such techniques have been used for several decades is, to all intents and purposes, 'dead', having become a plant growth medium with little to fractional nutrient contribution towards the plants' health. Rainfall patterns have changed, become unreliable and in many places increasingly scarce, driving desertification at a greater pace than we have ever witnessed it. In other places, water is all too plentiful, causing repeated and frequent floods. In counties where it snows, they have had season after season since the 21st century began with poor to little snow, punctuated by seasons – such as has just passed in the Northern hemisphere – where some places that literally have no records of ever having snow (at least, not since the last Ice Age) have been piled high with the powdery white stuff, and not just once but repeatedly. Large areas of England have had floods; much of Siberia has suffered the heaviest snowfalls in memory or on record, followed by an early spring bringing widespread flooding, followed by heat waves bringing widespread wildfires (releasing yet more methane into the atmosphere in huge volumes as permafrost which has been frozen for
many millennia thaws) and then by another round of super-intense snowfalls. Something wild and weird And so it goes, almost everywhere you can point to on the globe. is going on with the weather It's not the places one can list, from Ghana, Brazil, Greenland and Russia to Australia or wherever else that counts. It's that something wild and weird is everywhere – and just about going on with the weather everywhere – and just about everyone knows it. everyone knows it. And yet And yet governments worldwide are for the most part unwilling, in these tough governments worldwide are economic times, to bite the bullet and deal with carbon and other outputs while taking steps to confront what the weather is bringing us. for the most part unwilling, We've said it before but it's worth repeating: the issue isn't that we need to 'save in these tough economic the planet'. The planet was just fine before humans, having survived various assaults and catastrophes over its long life. And it will be fine long after we're times, to bite the bullet and gone, should we fail to get through the current challenges before us as a deal with carbon and other species, which may sound alarmist but really isn't. It's humankind – along with many other species – that's in real trouble. With outputs while taking steps just over 7.2 billion people on the planet we produce enough food – and have to confront what the weather been for the last decade or more – to feed everyone, with some to spare. And is bringing us. yet nearly a billion people live under the adequate food intake line. So we have organisational, political and other issues to solve, just to begin with. How much harder will it be for us to feed everyone in, say, 10 years time when we are into the 7.5b approaching 8b population zone, and when, in all probability based on what's going on with the weather, our water and food security will be that much more unpredictable and insecure? What do you think will happen, when people are not getting enough to eat? Do you think that the weather, then, will be a big enough story to lead every news item, as now it should be if we were to rate news by its overall significance to the widest number of people? Or perhaps it will be the many and rapidly escalating 'food and water' wars that will be triggered once we fall below some critical thresholds in terms of food supply and access to drinkable water? It is not for us to predict such things, but for you, our good readers, to think on them – and perhaps come to some conclusions about what each one of you in your own lives can do to help us not get into that awful position. Some say it is already too late, which is all the more reason, we'd argue, for urgent action on as many fronts as we can manage. Others believe that widescale action by many millions of motivated people can help head off the worst of the 'weather wars' by avoiding the most extreme disturbed weather patterns which are escalating right now in terms of their deviation from the 'norm' to which we've grown accustomed over many generations – and which some people still wrongly think that somehow things will miraculously 'come right' without some serious collective effort towards that end. We will not prescribe to anyone. That is not our job. Ours is to honestly inform, while offering practical, doable steps that almost everyone can take, whether they be individuals or major corporates. Some of the latter are indeed engaged in 'fighting the good fight', and you will see some of them in these pages. Others are doing the 'other thing' involving the head in the sand bit. But all of us will face what we have made, or made worse, depending on your emphasis on what role mankind has had in changing the weather. There is no escaping it; there's no planet B; and, in many cases, there's not even a 'Plan A', let alone a 'Plan B', when it comes to key decision-makers actually doing something meaningful. So we hand this collectively baked hot potato over to each one of you who reads this. Forward this article to others; copy and paste the link and send it to everyone on your email address (it's not spam, that's for sure). Make placards and protest in the streets, if you think that will help. But whatever you do, please do not just read this and say, either, 'Oh, well, we're screwed, nothing to be done, so let's party hardy until the end,' or alternatively, 'Well it's all too big for me/my company to handle, so I'll just leave it to others, the government, activists, Greenpeace or someone, anyone else but me.' We hope everyone reading this will realise that such responses just don't cut it any more. We hope all of you will feel compelled to do something – even if it's only to share this article (and the rest of our magazine, since that's where all the 'what to do' stuff is to be found). So, people, in the words of one of the struggle poets who fought against the oppression that once stalked this land, 'Bopa, let's do something!'
Chris & the team
7 SG
GreenViews SG 8
Dear Simply Green, I would like to compliment you on your magazine. I hope that it gets people off the chair and working towards finding solutions to the ever-increasing energy problems that surround us. It is my belief that the worst one is that of using oil to produce petrol and diesel fuels which are then burned and produce pollution. People simply have to understand that oil is a finite resource that will eventually run out, and when it does, we will not only lose fuel, but also lose all the other by-products such as lubricants and plastics. In addition to this, is the fact that we simply cannot keep removing thousands of tons of oil from one side of the Earth and moving it to the other without disturbing the balance of the Earth even further than it is at the moment. This imbalance is the cause of the earthquakes and tsunamis which are increasing in frequency lately. By far the largest consumer of oil and its products is the internal combustion engine, and we need to concentrate on finding alternate power sources as soon as possible. One possible replacement is the electric motor, but this has a few problems of it’s own: it requires a battery to operate it; a whole new infrastructure would have to installed in order to be able to charge it anywhere in the country; changing a car to use an electric motor would involve major changes in the suspension and braking systems, at significant cost; the weight of the battery and its size would be a big problem; a battery of the required size would be a significant safety problem, especially if it is a lead-acid battery. It is my opinion that the answer lies in the use of hydrogen gas produced from water, in a process known as Hydrogen On Demand, or HOD. In this process, the gas is produced as needed by the vehicle from water which is carried on board. In this way, no dangerous gas is ever stored and is therefore very safe. In addition to this, the vehicle’s engine does not have to be replaced, as it is merely modified to run on the hydrogen gas, mixed with air as it normally is, and can easily be reconverted if desired. There is an additional huge benefit, and that is the one of zero pollution. The emissions from the exhaust pipe are water and oxygen. How much better than that can it get? There is a problem associated with using hydrogen as a fuel, and that is the separation of it and oxygen from the water. This process requires energy which cannot be obtained from
the car’s battery or engine, because it uses more energy than it produces. A separate battery can be used of course, which is charged at home, but this uses power coming from Eskom which burns coal to produce it, so it achieves nothing. I believe that the answer will be found by a group of people who work together and share ideas. In this way a lot of time will be saved, as well as the environment. If anyone shares my feelings in this matter, please feel free to contact me at my home: Jonri@tiscali.co.za, 011 849 6849 – John Collin SG: John, many of your points are valid. Some are less so, though. For instance, it makes more sense to allow and encourage the development of hybrid (fuel and electric) engines and EVs and put pressure on Eskom to move away from fossil fuels to sustainable and renewable high-capacity power production systems such as Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) as discussed in this issue on page 86. Also the movement of fuel around the planet, while representing a significant volume and mass, is still miniscule compared to the planet's mass and therefore is no need for concern on this particular point, in our view.
FACEBOOK POSTS I love the work you all do – blessings for 2014 – may you soar high and may you receive abundant blessings daily; keep up the great work. – Belinda Joubert I have just read this article in your latest edition. I was surprised that you are reporting on such a controversial topic from such a one-sided perspective. The argument presented is so old and so tired. I don't accept that argument: hunting does not conserve and does not pay for conservation – it has resulted in the erection of fences across wild landscapes and money going into pockets (not into conservation). I think you need to present all sides to this argument if you're going to report on it – it's too hot a topic not to. What I should add, however, is that your magazine is wonderful – it covers so many issues. Love it. – Julie Carlisle SG: Hi Julie. Controversial debates are, well, controversial, and you cannot please everyone all the time. Your points on hunting are particularly pertinent to 'canned hunting', in which context you should have a look at Odyssey Magazine Issue 6, 2013, Simply Green's sibling publication, which among other things, looks a white lions, canned hunting thereof (and other species with them) and is more in line with where you stand. Also, we would invite you to send us a piece offering your perspective on the conservation / hunting story, to offer balance to what you are objecting too.
Advisory Board Sean Doel is the founding editor of Simply Green. A Technical Director at WSP, specialising in contaminated land investigations and remediation. He is also passionate about what we can all do to address climate change.
Jeunesse Park established ProGreen, SA’s first environmental communications and public relations company, as well as Food & Trees for Africa and has won many awards.
Liz Eglington (Western Cape Woman Farmer of the Year for 2005/2006) owns Buffelshoek Farm, is Chairperson of Terra Madre SA and Director and Secretary of the SA Organic Sector Organisation.
Cormac Cullinan is an enviro-attorney and governance expert who has worked on environmental issues in more than 20 countries and founded the specialist enviro-governance consultancy, EnAct.
Prof Bruce Hewitson is the director of the Climate System Analysis Group (CSAG) and was the co-ordinating lead author on regional climate projections for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).
Prof Mark Swilling is an internationally-recognised expert in sustainable development and is Academic Director of The Sustainability Institute, University of Stellenbosch.
Roger Metcalfe is a freelance journalist/ photographer specialising in the environment, technology and medicine. He is an ex-diplomat, and former TV producer and currently runs his own alternative energy business 'Solar Connect' which advises architects and developers on alternative energy designs.
Dr Pat Garratt is Managing Director of the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town, currently sits on the Steering Committee of the International Aquarium Congress and is vice-chair of the International Aquarium Forum.
Contributors Jane Griffiths is a
TV producer, writer, artist and traveller who has been growing organic vegetables and herbs for more than 15 years. Her best-selling book, Jane's Delicious Garden has led to a vegetable revolution in SA, with thousands of home growers now following in her green footsteps. Her second book, Jane’s Delicious Kitchen, is a collection of delicious recipes for making the most of seasonal abundance.
page 138
Eminè Mehmet is The Global Sustainability Ambassador. She believes Sustainability should be easily accessible to everyone, not just the experts. Focusing on 'spreading the word', Eminè helps decipher the green maze, bringing it back to 'grass roots' level through colourful and practical formulas. With a long career in interior design, she has worked for companies such as developer Meriton Apartments in Sydney and Queensland and International Architecture and Design Firm, Woods Bagot, in Sydney and Canberra.
page 98
Carole Knight is an investigative writer with more than 25 years experience. She writes
across different media platforms including print media and online editions of national and international magazines. She is known for her fresh, innovative and impeccably researched pieces. Carol is known for pushing boundaries, thinking out of the box and for presenting work with maximum style and visual impact.
page 40 & 69
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N ews
Vertical cemetery
A Royal Danish School of Architecture student created this proposed vertical graveyard to provide a solution to the growing demand for burial space in Norway. The tower is encased within a metal exoskeleton and it has graveyards on every floor that provide space for eternal rest in the sprawling urban sky. The design is an entry in a contest launched by the Nordic Association for Graveyards and Crematoria last year to develop innovative solutions to providing future burial space. This modern design blends in seamlessly with the urban landscape, appearing like any other downtown skyscraper. The vertical graveyard is topped with a permanent crane, so more and more floors can be added as needed. Each floor would be dedicated to a specific religion and would address the need for different customs. Although the competition into which it was entered, the flexible high-rise could have a place in the future as cemetery plots fill up. It gives new meaning to the idea of a final resting place in the sky.
Reincarnating into a tree?
These days, burial seems to be the preferred method of providing a home for our lifeless bodies. However, in a world where access to land is ever-shrinking, the process can be expensive and, in some senses, wasteful. Cremation is becoming an increasingly popular alternative for a number of reasons, from cost and practicality, to the desire to be able to have one’s remains for memory's sake. Now, a product called Bios Urn, allows for you, after cremation, to be buried in a bio-degradable urn that contains the seed of a tree which will one day grow into a towering tree, using your ashes for nutrients in years to come. Bios Urns essentially complete the cycle of life, from death to life, by giving a tree the opportunity to grow strong and tall from your remains. You can even select the species of tree to which you wish to give life. Imagine a cemetery evolving from a forest of stones, crosses and angels, to a forest of living breathing trees, supporting the natural environment, growing from the remains of once living creatures. It’s an odd concept, but quite beautiful nonetheless.
Scotland home to world's 1st self-sufficient island
Scotland’s Eigg Island might just be the world’s greenest island – and not only because of its pristine untouched landscape. The tiny isle off the country’s northwest coast boasts a broad array of sustainable strategies and, depending on weather conditions, gets up to 90% of its energy from renewable sources. Solar panels, wind turbines and hydroelectric schemes scattered all over the island meet the energy requirements of almost all of its residents. The island’s $2.64m electricity grid was switched on in 2008 and runs across the entire 31km2 land mass. As the gird operates independently of the UK's national grid, the island hasn’t been able to bring in big energy companies, which means its electricity prices are higher than the cost on the mainland. Its residents are forced to keep their energy usage under 5kW at a time, while the limit for business is 10kW. This limitation has prompted the islanders to use their electricity economically. Thanks to its geographic location and harsh weather conditions, the island benefits from an abundance of wind and sun energy and has even put free heating into public spaces, churches and its community centre. In '97, the residents bought the land from its previous owner – making Eigg the first Scottish island to be owned by its inhabitants. This empowering trend extends to newcomers as well – anyone who lives on the island for more than six months can become a member of the residents' committee. Some of the islanders familiar with the logistics and technicalities of installing renewables claim that the success of the island’s electric scheme owes to the fact that the system allowed each inhabitant to have a say in the decision to install solar panels, wind turbines and other sustainable mechanisms. S G 10
WATCH THIS!
1st test for Venice Moses project
Venice's $7b Moses Flood-Protection System passes 1st test
Venice just successfully tested its ambitious $7 billion flood-protection project for the first time. The Moses system for defense against high water is being constructed at the city’s lagoon inlets where the lagoon meets the sea. The gates are designed to reduce the intensity of tidal currents and protect the city from flooding. The system being tested in Venice could potentially provide protection for other coastal areas and communities threatened by rising sea levels. Venice is affected by dramatic 'high water events' up to seven times per year. Back in 1969, flood levels in the city reached 1.94m – 80% of the city was under water and 5 000 people were left homeless. As one of the coastal communities most exposed to the rising sea levels in the world, Venice was called 'the sinking city.' The project aims to protect the city and control sea levels. When a tide higher than 1m is forecast, its floodgates will empty of water that keeps them on the sea bed, rise and block three inlets. Once the water levels in the lagoon and the sea are equalised again the gates will fill with water and return to their original position. The system has been under construction for 10 years, but was slowed down by the country’s economic crisis. Only 78 gates have been constructed so far and needs an immediate $800m cash infusion to proceed, according to the head of the construction consortium. The project is scheduled for completion in 2016.
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A society is defined not only by what it creates, but by what it refuses to destroy. John Sawhill
WATCH THIS!
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NASA | Six Decades of a Warming Earth Sustained Long-Term Climate Warming Trend http://go.nasa.gov/1eQlZ1Z
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China's pollution crosses the Pacific Ocean to the Western US
Main: A smoggy LA skyline • Right: China's smog problem makes wearing masks a necessity
WATCH THIS!
EcO3Spray Sanitizing Spray Bottle
Turns water into ozone, enabling it to kill all known bacteria. It was selected from 300 entries as one of the Top 20 Most Viable Water Technologies at the 2013 Global Water Summit.
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The massive pollution that covers China has been making its way to the western US. A new study has shown that pollution from China’s burning of fossil fuels can account for a whopping 25% of sulfate pollution along the West coast of the US. The clouds of pollution travel across the Pacific Ocean, before settling over cities like LA. China is already known for its thick smog in cities like Beijing, but new studies have found that the country can also be blamed for extra smog days in far away LA. The acid rain-inducing sulfate that is a byproduct of burning fossil fuels in China is now being attributed as a contributor to the nitrogen oxide and CO2 smog that hovers over LA, in addition to pollutants such as black carbon. Both pollutants, which are linked to cancer, emphysema and heart disease, catch a ride to the US on westerlies – strong global winds that can carry the chemicals across the vast Pacific Ocean. Some experts say that China is not entirely to blame, but instead the global thirst for cheaply made products, which are exported from China. Scientists have estimated that one-third of these pollutants come from products made for export, with one-fifth of those headed for the US. Neighbouring countries like Japan and South Korea have already experienced effects from China’s pollution. Experts say that trans-boundary pollution can only be solved by adjusted trade regulations and demands.
Pope Francis addresses enviro-issues
Income inequality isn't the only important issue Pope Francis is taking on. Add enviro-protection to the list as the Argentinian-born leader of the world's 1.2b Roman Catholics has begun drafting an encyclical on ecology, according to the Vatican. A Papal encyclical – a letter addressing some form of Catholic doctrine – carries much weight in the religion, and addressing man's relationship to the environment could have a major impact in global efforts to address climate change. Jorge Mario Bergoglio has a history of addressing enviro-issues, starting with the fact that he named himself after St Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment. Francis spoke about why he chose the name shortly after his election, saying the saint 'teaches us profound respect for the whole of creation and the protection of our environment, which all too often, instead of using for the good, we exploit greedily, to one another's detriment'. The pope has also reduced his carbon footprint by riding the bus and publicly opposes fracking.
European cities enveloped by Aurora Borealis-like glow
The Aurora Borealis has brought visitors to Northern Europe for years, especially Finland, but these lights may find competition thanks to a new man-made phenomenon. Photographer Mika Wist captured photos of these new 'urban light pillars' from his balcony when temperatures plunged to -19°C recently. What's most surprising is that the artificial light show is actually caused by a combination of excessive light pollution and pillars of ice crystals trapped in the air. NASA's Tony Phillips at Spaceweather explains how the light pillars are a very different breed from Aurora Borealis: 'No solar activity is required for the phenomenon. The only ingredients are ice and light pollution. Moreover, it's possible that the subzero spotlights could form in your own city – provided you have excessive light pollution and a frigid climate, of course. In particular, you should keep an eye out for mini-light pillars that form in the glow of streetlights.'
Life-saving boot detects landmines 2m away
Bogota-based design firm Lemur Studio has designed a life-saving boot insert which can detect landmines from a distance of 2m. SaveOneLife was created with soldiers in mind, but civilians and farmers living in areas littered with active mines can also benefit from this groundbreaking technology. The boot sole acts as a metal detector with a built-in radio transmitter and processor which pick up electromagnetic fields produced by large metal objects. Colombia’s fields and jungles are full of active landmines which have, in the last 24 years, killed 2 000 people and injured about 10 000 more. With the goal of saving both soldiers and innocent civilians, Lemur Studio created a boot sole that detects land mines within a radius of 2m, and alerts the wearer of danger. Embedded within the soles are microprocessors and radio transmitters that send a signal to a wristband interface, which shows the mine’s exact location. Lemur Studio’s designers have received numerous awards for their life-saving design, including the Red Dot Design Singapore Award. SaveOneLife is also one of the contestants for the World Design Impact Prize, the winner of which was the ABC Syringe. The team is currently pitching their concept to the military and seeking additional funding.
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New greenhouse gas 7 000 times more potent than CO 2
Yellowstone Park Supervolcano
By now most people know that Yellowstone National Park lies on top of a massive supervolcano which has the potential to unleash a planet-altering eruption. However a team of researchers from the University of Utah just discovered that the volcano’s magma chamber is about 2.5 times bigger than earlier believed. It is estimated to be over 88km in length, containing over 200-600km3 of molten rock. The team mapped the magma chamber using a network of seismometers that were situated around the park. Dr Jamie Farrell, from the University of Utah, said: 'We record earthquakes in and around Yellowstone, and we measure the seismic waves as they travel through the ground. The waves travel slower through hot and partially molten material – with this, we can measure what’s beneath.' The last major eruption, which occurred 640 000 years ago, sent ash across the whole of North America, affecting the planet’s climate. It is unclear when the Yellowstone supervolcano will erupt again, but scientists believe we are overdue for an eruption by at least 60 000 years.
WATCH THIS!
Yellowstone's Super Volcano Discovery Channel
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Scientists at the University of Toronto say that a gas called perfluorotributylamine (PFTBA) is 7 000 times more potent than CO2 over a 100-year time period. Used in the electrical industry, each PFTBA molecule has a lifespan of 500 years and no known method of sequestration. According to The Guardian, PFTBA has been used in the electrical industry since the 20th century and does not occur naturally. While its levels in the atmosphere are relatively small compared to CO2, its potential to warm the Earth is so great that even the slightest amount could exacerbate the climate crisis. In Toronto, researchers found PFTBA concentrations of 0.18 parts per trillion, compared to 400 parts per million CO2. Although the researchers consider CO2 emissions from fossil fuels to be of primary concern, the revelation of a powerful new chemical serves as a warning that other potentially more damaging and unregulated gasses may be endangering the planet. 'PFTBA is just one example of an industrial chemical that is produced but there are no policies that control its production, use or emission. It is not being regulated by any type of climate policy,' said Angela Hong, a co-author of the study published in Geophysical Research Letters. PFTBA is one of an entire group of molecules whose climate implications are not understood. As humans struggle to control global warming, they ought to carefully test all new chemical creations before releasing them into the atmosphere. Otherwise, models attempting to predict the future of global weather patterns and efforts to contain hazardous compounds will continue to be out of sync with reality.
WATCH THIS!
New greenhouse gas identified Next Media
Events March Against Monsanto
Saturday, May 24, 2014, Cape Town. Join the fight for our food. Contact Rean 076 624 0687 or 087 944 4552, Chloe 071 454 3425 or Brent 072 377 7835 for more info. There will also be a pre-march meeting to make placards and banners and share ideas. Click here.
Global Cannabis March
Saturday, 3 May, Cape Town, Cnr Keizergracht & Chapel St South Africans who support the review and reform of the current cannabis laws will gather for the annual march to celebrate global unity and support for the cannabis plant's re-integration into our society and to demand a review and reform of the current cannabis laws. Click here.
International Forum on Payments for Enviro-Services of Tropical Forests 7-10 April, Hotel Crowne Plaza Corobici, San José, Costa Rica Click here.
9-10 April, Cape Town, Southern Sun Cape Sun Hotel South Africa’s first and only commercially dedicated wind energy summit will focus on how to procure, construct and deliver successful wind projects. Click here.
8-9 April, Cape Town Now in its 3rd year, the event has grown to become the central meeting point for the industry, where local and international experts help you overcome key financial and technological challenges. Click here.
World Urban Forum 7
5-11 April, Plaza Mayor Convention and Exhibition Center, Medellin, Colombia The WUF7 is a global city event involving the whole community and, at the same time, allowing participants to enjoy cultural life in Medellín. Click here. 15 S G
The 2014 Cape Town Eco Film Festival will take place at the Labia Theatre on Orange Street in Cape Town from Thursday the 27th of March to Sunday the 31st of March.
This exciting inaugural event brings the best local and international documentary films focusing on enviro-issues to Cape Town. The Festival offers Capetonians the opportunity to enjoy the latest crop of world-class enviro-documentaries, many of which are very unlikely to ever make it onto the commercial cinema circuit in SA. Documentary films represent a powerful medium for communicating the growing ecological challenges with which we are faced today – from climate change and pollution to plummeting biodiversity and diminishing natural resources. The films selected for the Festival programme offer revealing – often shocking – insights into these crises while presenting inspiration for change and encouraging audiences to tackle them in their own lives. Many of the films featured expose ugly problems, but also suggest solutions and encourage action.
The Cape Town Eco Film Festival is a project of While You Were Sleeping, an NPO dedicated to bringing documentary films with important environmental, social and political messages to SA audiences.
Press contact Andreas Wilson-Späth Andreas_Spath@yahoo.com | 021 671 4364 | 084 749 9470 Dougie Dudgeon dougie@butterflyeffect.co.za | 021 424 1313 | 082 560 2296
Venue: Labia Theatre, 68 Orange Street, Cape Town. All films will be followed by an informal audience discussion or Q&A session.
www.greenpop.org | www.exploringconsciousness.org.za | www.kalaharitomboy.co.za | www.cozitcounts.co.za | www.reliance.co.za simply Leading the eco-lifestyle
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Festival partners
www.capetownecofilmfestival.com
www.simplygreen.co.za | www.jojotanks.co.za | www.hemporium.com | www.sustainable.co.za | www.90x2030.org.za
PROGRAM Thursday 27 March
Saturday 29 March
6pm
Gasland Part II SA Premiere!
6:00pm
(US | 2013 | 125min | Dir: Josh Fox)
(US | 2013 | 52min | Dir: Linda Booker & Blaire Johnson)
8:30pm
GMO OMG
(US | 2013 | 85min | Dir: Jeremy Seifert)
Screens with Complicit (Ireland | 2013 | 5 min | Dir: Gavin Hoffman)
Screens with Groningen: The World’s Cycling City & Cape Town: Better by Bike
8:30pm
Earth Hour
Friday 28 March
Sunday 30 March
6pm
The Last Ocean SA Premiere!
2pm
(NZ | 2012 | 88min | Dir: Peter Young)
In Organic We Trust SA Premiere!
Screens with Amazing Grace
Blackfish SA Premiere!
8:30pm
(US | 2013 | 82min | Dir: Gabriela Cowperthwaite)
Screens with First Light
Saturday 29 March
Op Theefontein
(Afrikaaans with English subtitles | SA | 2012 | 53min | Dir: Johann Botha)
4pm
(US | 2012 | 82min | Dir: R. Kiplin Pastor)
Screens with Bicycle Anecdotes from Amsterdam
6pm
More Than Honey
(Switzerland | 2012 | 92min | Dir: Markus Imhoof)
Screens with The Buzz for Food
Amazon Gold SA Premiere!
Monday 31 March
(US | 2012 | 53min | Dir: Reuben Aaronson)
(NZ | 2013 | 74min | Dir: Simon Lamb & David Sington)
Screens with Damocracy
Screens with A Wave Ahead
SA Premiere!
The Carbon Rush SA Premiere!
2pm
Op Theefontein
Bringing It Home SA Premiere!
(Turkey | 2012 | 35min | Dir: Todd Southgate)
& Siwe’s Journey
4pm
In Transition 2.0
6:00pm
Thin Ice
8:30pm
(Canada | 2012 | 84 min | Dir: Amy Miller)
Screens with The Story of Cap &
Trade
(UK | 2012 | 69min | Dir: Emma Goude)
Screens with The Story of
Solutions
Antoinettte Pienaar and her Karoo herbalist teacher in Op Theefontein
Events
Sustainable Housing A multidisciplinary service-learning project. The project designs and constructs a fully functional model-house with alternative and sustainable building materials, using building methods which are suitable for owner-building and cheaper, with increased energy efficiency and quality than conventional building, for local
We take a look at some of the eco-initiatives involved in the Cape Town Design Capital 2014.
people to experience. #WDC662 scotta@cput.ac.za
Better Living Challenge The Better Living Challenge aims to gather and showcase the best home-improvement solutions
Affordable
DOO.co-lab
ECO-LIVING
Housing
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for low-income living. We are
DOO.co-lab is a design-platform,
We have a solution for the backlog
partially funded by Sweden, focusing
of houses. We have an Alternative
on
Building
is
joins designers and stakeholders
clean, green, safe, affordable,
globally with live projects, adapting
easy and quick to assemble. This
strategies for design and social
alternative building method can
innovation to a majority world
be implemented in residential,
context for sustainable change in
commercial and industrial projects.
Cape Town.
#WDC664 harold@imaginet.co.za
#WDC440 danielle@dooco.co.za
Technology
that
sustainable
urban
living.
It
calling upon manufacturers, designers, inventors, students and entrepreneurs to submit products, services and systems that are innovative, affordable and green. Stand a chance to win a bespoke support package – all the support you need to get your idea into production or expand the reach of an existing product. Finalists will be exhibited in an interactive
City
Development
demonstration site launching September 2014.10 winners
a
will receive bespoke support
to
in 2015 and 2016. The Better
showcase and bring forward
Living Challenge will promote
the latest advancements and
the development of sustainable
technological innovations in
housing solutions that improve
urban planning and city infrastructure development. This platform brings
lives, are affordable and offer
together insights and highlights from key experts and experienced
people
specialists to share and update the participants on how to manage
solutions. #WDC204 fran.cox@
sustainable development. #WDC677 JascintaL@marcusevanskl.com
ccdi.org.za
City
Development
well-designed
is
arena
choices
in
housing
'A big part of willpower is having something to aspire to; someting to live for.'
Mark Shuttleworth
PROJECTS Being a recognised project is an opportunity to put the global spotlight on your creativity. Cape Town will be a focal point for the international design community in 2014, with design-focused projects and events hosted in the city throughout the year. As an officially recognised project:
You'll
be included in the program for the
year and get meaningful exposure through our integrated communication efforts
You'll get access to key local and global players
in the creative industries, providing opportunity for collaboration, networking and mentorship. Visit www.wdccapetown2014.com
Green Space Factor Tool This tool for the City of Cape Town addresses
The Amani Initiative Their
intention
is
to
encourage
optimisation of ecosystem services, energy,
sustainable migration to rural areas by
water, and food security in urban development and
training migrants in their eco-building
regeneration areas. The Green Space Factor is a targeted,
and permaculture programs in Cape
project-based tool for systematically increasing greening and
Town, and facilitating the controlled
sustainability of the city and working towards mitigating the effects of
relocation onto commercially viable
climate change. The aim is to guide future development in the city to
organic farms.
create a resilient and adaptable city in the future.
#WDC594 mijkle@rocketmail.com
#WDC330 kirsten@argdesign.co.za
Micromune Better sanitation equals better education. Sanitation World manufactures Micromune, an organic liquid that accelerates the decomposition of sewage, destroys fly/mosquito larvae, harmful bacteria and eliminates odour. Tried and tested successfully in Africa and India in pit-latrines and septic tanks, application of Micromune transforms communities. #WDC661 pragasen@sanitation-world.com 19 S G
The Frame Foundry
Agriprotein Sustainable
feed
The project bridges the gap between
production
using
today
transport
bioconversion Agriprotein use fly
challenges by upskilling a generation
larvae to digest organic wastes and
with the skills to build and maintain
produce a valuable, sustainable
bicycles. This investment today, in a
feed protein. The technology is
design oriented skill, will benefit future
so unique that it can even be
generations by providing a sustainable
used to improve sanitation by
transport infrastructure.
digesting toilet waste. #WDC589
itsaboutabike@paperplanefuture.com
glen@agriprotein.com
and
tomorrow's
Integrated
waste
Waste to
Sustainability Awareness System
Food
The system is an integrated
vermicompost. Waste to Food
online
Converting valuable
waste
resource,
into
a
namely
and
will process food and food
rewards based system, used
processing wastes that are no
to compile a database on
longer safe for consumption
sustainable living practices.
into
data
collection
high
quality
organic
The database will be used by an administrative body
products. The project will avoid negative enviro-impacts
to view area statistics and improve infrastructure
associated with disposal, create enviro-beneficial
around sustainable living.
products and enterprise development opportunities.
#WDC609 bronwen.impey.smith@gmail.com
#WDC581 roger@waste-to-food.co.za
The Philippi
Village
A major brownfield site in the middle of Philippi will be re-developed by committed role players in the private sector to provide a major socio/cultural and economic hub along the ethos of sustainable urban development in order to shift opportunity to the Cape Flats. #WDC310 philip@philipbriel.com S G 20
protein
Bossa Nova Instant House The Bossa Nova Instant House is a transitional emergency shelter structure for post-disaster sites and displaced communities. The bamboo geodesic framework and eco-friendly fabric cladding can be assembled by community members without the need for tools or construction skills. #WDC665 waspdesign@gmail.com
City of Eden across a network of existing sites
Maboneng Lalela Project Experience 2014
including Woodstock, Greenpoint,
A unique partnership aimed at
Khayalitsha and Oceanview. It
converting private homes and
will establish visually lush, high
public spaces in townships
yielding, mostly self-sustaining
into art galleries and art
food-ecosystems. GCX's collective
performance
skills
introducing an art experience
A Food Forest Network using design based on forest ecology
include
architecture,
landscape
into
permaculture,
the
events,
thus
communities,
as
workshop facilitation, training
well as creating skills and
and social work.
development and sustainable
#WDC601 anna@gcx.co.za
employment.
#WDC503
ohjaygee@me.com
WATCH THIS!
WaSP Waterless
Sanitation Project
The aim of this project is to develop and produce, through communityempowering
initiatives,
Lookout for these tags around the city indicating a Design Capital event.
economic
waterless toilet units for primary use at the WDC pavilion and other WDC public venues and secondary use as public and private toilets in underprivileged
Ecosan toilet South Africa
communities. #WDC637 waspdesign@ gmail.com 21 S G
ď ź
Tech
I started the collection by looking at nature. Nature is extremely adept at combing different materials and the 'jelly like' beauty of underwater creatures made a contribution. I also studied shoes, fashion and art and of course the Objet500 Connex3.
ď ź
Classic Serpent Shoe
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future Garden of Eden 'I am a designer, artist and engineer and 3D printing allows me to seamlessly combine these seemingly disparate interests where I'm able to explore my creative passions and try my hand at many different disciplines. I have designed lighting, jewellery; created acclaimed artworks and have done a post doctorate degree in medical implant design. This year I became a fashion designer,' says Michaella Janse van Vuuren. This is her story.
I
live in SA, my home is in the bushveld and I work independent of any corporate or academic structures. My window to the world is the
internet – with 3D printing I have become part of the
software supply chain, where digital files instead of physical objects are traded. The fashion pieces were brought to life by a virtual collaboration over three continents. The project took over six months and many hours of hard work doing the 3D digital sculpture and CAD designs in SA. Dr Daniel Dikovsky and Tal Ely from Stratasys worked on the Objet500 Connex3 in Israel, and Turlif Vilbrandt from Uformia
WATCH THIS!
The Rocking Springbuck Michaella Janse van Vuuren
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New York Fashion Week 2014
Extreme Serpent Shoe
Extreme Serpent Shoe
Stained Glass Corset
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The Fish in Coral and Fish in Lillies bracelets use a mechanical hinge method to bend the bracelet around the wrist – the fish scales are placed on top of each hinge
What I loved about the project was that communication was facilitated by my drawings – that art is used to fluidly communicate ideas between the different disciplines of design, materials engineering and software creation.
(www.uformia.com) on customisation in Norway. The pieces made their debut at the first 3D Print catwalk show at the New York 3D Printshow during New York fashion week February 2014. From the beginning it was clear that to use the Objet500 Connex3 technology to its full capacity would require a new way of thinking, a different approach to how I usually design for 3D printing. I have made many designs for different 3D printing processes, from Direct Metal laser, sintering the selective laser sintering machines. What makes the Objet500 Connex3 different is the ability to control both the material properties and the colour. In the
Inspired by Eden My inspiration was the biblical story of creation where Eve is seduced by the serpent and brings about the fall of paradise and conveys punishment and suffering upon all her descendants. In this collection I reinvent her as the master of the Serpent. Free, powerful, sexual and in control. So, whether she chooses to only wear her classic serpent shoes with her business suit, or chooses to go extreme, she can be anyone she wants to be, as the author of her destiny. And as the collection is customisable, both in colour pallet and fit, it does not matter what
same 3D print you can have very rigid and rubber parts and all the strengths in between. The parts can vary from opaque to clear and colour can be used to
WATCH THIS!
create beautiful pallets. The possibilities are endless. I started the collection by looking at nature. Nature is extremely adept at combing different materials and the 'jelly like' beauty of underwater creatures made a contribution. I also studied shoes, fashion and art and, of course, the Objet500 Connex3. What I loved about the project was that communication was facilitated by my drawings – that art is used to fluidly communicate ideas between the different disciplines of design, materials engineering and software creation.
The Horse Marionette Michaella Janse van Vuuren
25 S G
The Objet500 Connex3 Color Multi-material 3D Printer My fashion accessories were all printed on the new Objet500 Connex3 Color Multi-material 3D printer from Stratasys. A game-changer for product design, engineering and manufacturing processes, this 3D printer features a unique triple-jetting technology that combines droplets of three base materials to produce parts with virtually unlimited combinations of rigid, flexible, and transparent colour materials as well as colour digital materials – all in a single print run. This ability to achieve the characteristics of an assembled part without assembly or painting is a significant time-saver. It helps product manufacturers validate designs and make good decisions earlier before committing to manufacturing, and bring products to market faster. The material properties were adjusted to be more 'rubbery' to facilitate the bending.
shape or size she is – from waif to voluptuous. It will always be a perfect fit with colours to match her mood.
Stained Glass Corset The
Stained
glass
corset
was
designed
in
collaboration with Stratasys and Turlif Vilbrandt of Uformia who added customisation options. The Uformia software imports scanned body data and automatically 'fits' the corset to the body scan data.
Above: The beautiful variations in colour that are possible using one design • Below: Michaella's design sketch drafts
Tal Ely of Stratasys developed a custom pallet that consists of vero clear, magenta and tango black to create the beautiful stained glass effect and purple/ pink colouring. I have only scratched the surface of the possibilities with the Connex3. Not only is this technology able to replace traditional methods of manufacturing, but it enables one to manufacture in a completely new way. The ability to include different material properties and beautiful jewel-like colours in a single print run is absolutely ground-breaking. Like paint on canvas, the Connex3 is a powerful tool
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for engineering and creative expression – I cannot
Visit http://nomili.co.za and Stratasys 3D printing
wait to see the objects that this technology will
SA: PR Connections • Alison McDonald, Tel
enable.
011-468-1192 • alison@pr.co.za
SG
ODYSSEY SA's leading integrated living mag
Every business should have a CEM ®
DIGIMAG
Odyssey Magazine, SA's oldest and leading integrated lifestyle magazine, now in its 36th year, has arrived in the digital realm, and is FREE of charge.
A Certified Energy Manager (CEM®) has the knowledge and skills to ensure sustainable energy savings for any business
Contact Cape Town Head Office Tel 27 (0) 21 713 0018 or 712 4665 082 579 7915 • Fax 715 2809 info@odysseymagazine.co.za www.odysseymagazine.co.za
ODYSSEY The Mother Archetype Caroline Myss Barbara Marx Hubbard Hildegard of Bingen
Passing over with dignity Health Tips For optimal living Animal Whisperer
Earth Guardian
A 12-year-old activist speaks
Movement Medicine
Nature's Blueprint for the Economy BUMPER LAUNCH EDITION
Options & insights for people seeking practical steps towards integrated living in the 21 Century st
An Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) qualification programme presented in Southern Africa by the AEE's sole approved training partner for the region, the Energy Training Foundation (EnTF).
SA's leading integrated living mag April 2013
Issue 1 here Issue 2 here Issue 3 here Issue 4 here Issue 5 here Issue 6 here
CEM® is an intensive 4-day training course followed by an examination that requires a 70% pass-mark, after which the candidate may apply for international certification which is recognised in 90 countries. Note that re-certification is required every 3 years.
DYSSEY DIGIMAG
•
EnTF is also EWSETA accredited and a training provider of the SAEE.
Tel: +27(0) 87 942 5513/4 Cell: +27(0) 76 401 3881/2 info@entf.co.za | www.entf.co.za R
The Association of Energy Engineers
inspire design
C ompetition
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T
Last year the GfK Consumer Trends report questioned consumers on what innovation meant to them, with the overwhelming response being that it means an easier or faster way of doing something.
he relationship between consumers and technology
is
continually
changing
as
advancements are made at a rapid pace.
However,
innovation
does
not
always
mean
reinventing the wheel – sometimes it means finding a smarter way to do the same thing. Michelle Marketing
Potgieter, and
Director
Communications
of at
Corporate Samsung
Electronics SA, says innovation cannot simply be based on raw functionality or external beauty. 'Innovative technology must add value to people's lives, always responding to, or anticipating their changing needs. While aesthetics are a key part of the consumer choice, products must also be designed for ease of use, efficiency and be sustainable'. Potgieter says Samsung's approach to product design is continually evolving, and in recent years
Michelle Potgieter, Director of Corporate Marketing and Communications, Samsung Electronics SA
has developed towards a new way of thinking that places the user experience at the very centre of the design conversation. Samsung's design approach, 'Make it Meaningful' is one that places great importance on whether a product provides value and fulfilment beyond purely aesthetic or functional considerations. The core principles of this methodology are based on designing products that eliminate redundant features, deliver simplicity and ease of use, are closely attuned to the users' environments and lifestyles, and take the planet into consideration by designing products that are longer-lasting, more energy-efficient and sustainable. It is this desire to always strive to do better that has led Samsung to continually revolutionise in all areas of its business. 'Innovative designs should not dominate the space in which we live but should rather complement and enhance our quality of life. Often a concept that will stand the test of time will be one that combines the best elements of design, functionality and effortlessly address the consumer's need,' says Potgieter.
search program in SA, based on the company's global strategy to strengthen its commitment to unleash the dreams, passions and potential of individuals with brilliant ideas through innovative technology. In order to ensure the success of this initiative, Samsung has partnered with some of the country's most esteemed designers in the creative space to help identify talent. The campaign aims to unearth creative talent across five design categories: fashion, furniture, industrial, homeware and décor – and was launched during Africa's first international design fair The GUILD, at the CTICC.
The four judges chosen to search and ultimately choose SA's best emerging design talent include successful jewellery designer Kirsten Goss, premium artist in homeware and décor, Susan Slee of Maneki, internationally celebrated fashion designer, Shaldon Kopman of Naked Ape, and CEO of premium furniture store Bakos Brothers, Ryan Bakos. The search will unfold in two phases: the national recruitment, entry and judging process will take place between March and May. The four judges
MAKE IT MEANINGFUL
will then select 10 winners – comprising the top two designs in each category of the five disciplines.
Inspire Design is a new campaign launched by
These candidates will then have the opportunity of a
Samsung Electronics SA – with the purpose of
lifetime to showcase their talent through extensive
discovering SA's best up-and-coming designers from
media exposure and network with distinguished SA
a spectrum of creative industries and helping to
buyers.
SG
turn their dreams into a reality. Samsung will run its first-ever design talent
www.samsung.com/za/inspire_design
29 S G
Tech
S G 30
the
nanotech: You & earth Scientists at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) have developed a multi-purpose nano material to tackle enviro-challenges. We take a look.
TiO2 nanotech fibres seen through a microscopic
31 S G
S
cientists in Singapore have developed a single revolutionary
multifunctional
nanomaterial
with a plethora of uses – the remarkable
material, known as multi-use titanium dioxide (TiO2),
can desalinate water, be used as flexible water filtration membranes, can help to recover energy from desalination waste brine, be moulded into flexible solar cells and can double the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries. And with bacteria-killing properties, it can also be used in new antibacterial bandages.
TiO2 is an inexpensive and
abundant material, which has been scientifically proven to have the ability to accelerate a chemical reaction (photocatalytic) and is also able to bond with water (hydrophilic).
Led by associate-professor Darren Sun, scientists at NTU have succeeded in developing this multi-functional
nanomaterial, which is low in cost as compared to existing technology, such as using platinum as a catalyst. This breakthrough has taken professor Sun five years to develop.
The tech Multi-use titanium dioxide is formed by turning titanium dioxide crystals into patented nanofibres, which can then be easily fabricated into patented flexible filter membranes that include a combination of carbon, copper, zinc or tin, depending on the specific end-product needed. Titanium dioxide is an inexpensive and abundant material, which has been scientifically proven to have the ability to accelerate a chemical reaction (photocatalytic) and is also able to bond with water (hydrophilic). 'With the world's population expected to hit 8.3 billion by 2030, there will be a massive increase in the global demand for energy and food by 50%, and 30% for drinking water.' *
An all-in-one solution? Undeniably,
such
a
low-cost,
easily-produced
nanomaterial is expected to have immense potential to help tackle ongoing global challenges in energy and enviro-issues. Prof Sun said: 'While there is no single silver bullet to solving two of the world's biggest challenges – cheap renewable energy and an abundant supply of clean water – our single multi-use membrane comes close, with its TiO2 nanoparticles being a key catalyst in discovering such solutions.' He added that, with the unique nanomaterial, they hope to be able to help convert today's waste into tomorrow's resources, such as clean water and energy.
S G 32
Nanotech materials have made it possible for previously unbondable materials to be bonded together
Multi-use TiO2, can desalinate water, be used as flexible water filtration membranes, can help to recover energy from desalination waste brine, be moulded into flexible solar cells and can double the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries. And with bacteria-killing properties, it can also be used in new antibacterial bandages.
multi-use tiO2 can:
Concurrently produce both hydrogen and clean water when exposed to sunlight;
Be made into a low-cost flexible filtration membrane that is anti-fouling; Desalinate water as a high-flux forward osmosis membrane; Recover energy from waste desalination brine and wastewater; Be made into a low-cost flexible solar cell to generate electricity; Double battery life when used as anode in a lithium-ion battery; and Kill harmful microbes, leading to new antibacterial bandages.
How it was found Prof Sun had initially used titanium dioxide with iron oxide to make anti-bacterial water filtration membranes to solve biofouling – bacterial growth that clogs up the
WATCH THIS!
TiO2 - Renobond with EcoClean
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The highly porous nature of multi-use TiO2 can be seen in these various stages of magnification. Its molecular structure is also visualised above.
pores of membranes, obstructing water flow.
said Prof Sun.
While developing the membrane, Prof Sun's team
'As of now, we are achieving a very high
also discovered that it could act as a photocatalyst,
efficiency of about three times more than if we had
turning wastewater into hydrogen and oxygen
used platinum, but at a much lower cost, allowing
under sunlight while still producing clean water.
for cheap hydrogen production. In addition, we can
Such a water-splitting effect is usually caused by
concurrently produce clean water for close-to-zero
platinum, a precious metal that is both expensive
energy costs, which may change our current water
and rare.
reclamation system over the world for future liveable
'With such a discovery, it is possible to
cities.
concurrently treat wastewater and yet have a much
'Hydrogen is a clean fuel which can be used for
cheaper option of storing solar energy in the form
automotive fuel-cells or in power plants to generate
of hydrogen so that it can be available any time, day
electricity.'
or night, regardless of whether the sun is shining or not, which makes it truly a source of clean fuel,'
The next step Prof Sun and his team of 20, which includes
WATCH THIS!
six undergraduates, 10 PhD students and four researchers, are now working to further develop the material while concurrently working on a start-up company to commercialise the product. They are also looking to collaborate with commercial partners to speed up the commercialisation process.
SG
Source: www.ntu.edu.sg * 2030: The Perfect Storm Scenario, published by the Population Institute.
Visit www.ntu.edu.sg
CBCNews - Green Science
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8655/E
WE DIDN’T CRY TEARS OF PRIDE AS HER SON RECEIVED HIS DEGREE We didn’t cheer wildly at her son’s first football game We didn’t cut the cake on her wedding day We didn’t spot her future husband in the crowd at the annual town dance
WE DID HELP CREATE THE COMMUNITY CENTRE WHERE IT ALL STARTED CREATING POSSIBILITIES
With the planet as one of our core values, we assess the carbon footprint of each and every one of our operations and products while actively striving to drive down our impact on the environment.
www.afrisam.com
35 S G
Buildings
SA Green appointe of S G 36
ď ź
Buildings globally consume about 40% of the world's energy, and green buildings typically reduce consumption by 50-70%, so that sector has a massive impact in reducing greenhouse gases.
ď ź
Bruce Kerswill, Executive Chairman of the Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA) and the pioneer who led the charge in the formation of the local Council, has been elected as the Chairman of the World Green Building Council (WGBC).
K
erswill, who has been involved with the World GBC Expo since 2009, is passionate about
green building and, having recognised that
the lack of knowledge about green building in SA was limiting our efforts in terms of limiting global warming and applying international best practice, championed the initiative to set up the GBCSA. Since then the GBCSA has become recognised as the 'lead' organisation in green building in SA, and is now one of the most active councils
globally. Kerswill's involvement with the World GBC also affords the GBCSA continued and improved Kerswill has had a long career in the commercial property industry
n Leader ed Chair WGBC
access to international resources, information, insight and skills. The World GBC aims to facilitate the global transformation of the building industry towards sustainability, and currently has 100 Green Building
Councils
from
other
countries
as
members. Buildings globally consume about 40% of the world's energy, and green buildings typically reduce consumption by 50-70%, so that sector has a massive impact in reducing greenhouse gases. The WGBC assists new national GBCs and promotes interaction in its network, as well as providing leadership on common global issues. During
his
involvement
with
the
WGBC,
Kerswill has championed the cause for social and enviro-impacts to be included in the concept of green building for developing countries, and has played an integral role in facilitating the formation of the Africa Regional Network of Green Building Councils.
37 S G
During his involvement with the WGBC, Kerswill has championed the cause for social and enviro-impacts to be included in the concept of green building for developing countries, and has played an integral role in facilitating the formation of the Africa Regional Network of Green Building Councils.
'I look forward to my role as Chairman of the World GBC: there is a real magic to over 100 countries all working in synch to address some of global society's greatest problems. WGBC has over 28 000 companies, including some of the world's largest, who are members of its constituent GBCs. I believe it is one of the most effective organisations in addressing climate change, effecting change on the ground and in people's behaviour – and all done in a great spirit of camaraderie.' Bruce Kerswill Kerswill has had a long career in the commercial
integral role in the formation and listing of the
property industry. A town and regional planner
Tower Property Fund, the first fund to list on
and MBA by training, he moved into property
the JSE under the REIT structure. He is currently
development and housing, and then into property
Managing Director of Spire Property Group, which
asset management and corporate strategy. With
provides property management services to private
partner Rodney Squire-Howe, he co-founded Spire
and corporate clients.
Property Group and assembled the Paramount Property Fund, listing it on the Joburg Stock Exchange in 2001. Most recently he played an
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SG
Visit www.worldgbc.org
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See pg 112 for more
Home 'What do you do if you own a magnificent property at the base of a mountain in the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, right in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom, but you need a home and have a limited budget with which to acquire one? Well, you might decide, as my husband, Clive, and I did, to become first-time owner-builders. And if, like me, you are an enviro-writer deeply immersed in the principles of sustainable development, you may also decide to build in a way that is as sustainable as possible.' Carole Knight shares her story of how they built their own sustainable house.
the house sust S G 40
tainability built 41 S G
S
ustainability is a mindset, and in terms of
However, as a sustainable building material they have
construction it can be interpreted in diverse
the advantage of being extremely durable, affording
and highly individualistic ways. For Clive and
a maintenance-free lifecycle which eliminates future
I, building sustainably started way before the first
The high thermal mass of clay bricks means that
our property in the context of its unique location and
they optimise the thermal performance of walling
deciding to be sensitive to the fynbos vegetation that
envelopes, maintaining temperatures at a constant
covered it, developing only as much of the stand as
level especially in solar heat gain environments like
we absolutely needed to. For while we are aware that
SA, which reduces the need for artificial cooling or
fragmentation or islandisation of any ecosystem,
heating and, in turn, reduces the country's electricity
however small, is harmful in terms of biodiversity
generation load. They also ensure zero-emission
impoverishment, we felt partial development of the
interiors.
site was better than complete eradication of the pristine fynbos.
Because we were building out of pocket our house was designed to be built in a modular way as
Developing only half of our 1  800m2 property
funds became available. However, in order to ensure
means that today our garden is an undisturbed
the stability or integration of the eventual structure,
portion of fynbos with glorious yellow pincushion
we built the foundations in one hit even though we
proteas providing a spring feast for stunning
knew we would initially only be building part of the
bird species like the Cape sugarbird and lesser
house.
doublecollared sunbird when the flowers are in full
Also, as we are at the bottom of a high mountain
bloom, while visiting baboon troops enjoy a meal of
we felt we couldn't take the chance of one day being
the flowerheads when they have died off later in the
flooded out when a heavy downpour came gushing
season.
down the slopes behind our house, so we made
An array of interesting residents also live on the
the decision to go up one brick more around the
property among the fynbos. As the summer sun
perimeter of the foundations than was stipulated on
rises, a Cape francolin mother hen busily gathers
the plan. This might not sound like a big deal but
her clutch of fluffy chicks around her in preparation
with the added costs of bricks, cement, brick force,
for the day's foraging. A mongoose family regularly
labour, and so on, it was a major decision, especially
patrols the perimeter of the building in the cool of
as we were building on such a tight budget.
early evening and spectacular bird species like the
Because of the house's modular design most
jackal buzzard, cape eagle owl, yellowbilled kite and
of the inner walls are double walls which give the
rock kestrel can sometimes be seen soaring in the
house unsurpassed strength, but because we opted
heights above our house.
to go for unplastered and undressed clay brick in
Another important early consideration was the
the main living area, we saved considerably on the
building material we would use as we knew our
overall amount of cement used, which, of course,
house would have to stand up to everything the
has important sustainability implications.
Cape of Storms could throw at it. During the dark
Septic tanks, soak-aways and French drains are
months of deep winter we are directly in the path of
not permitted in the Overberg area. Our sanitation
fierce north-westerly winds that come whistling like
system, therefore, consists of two 2 500l capacity
a freight train through a wind tunnel at the base of
plastic conservancy tanks embedded in a rock-lined,
the mountain. At gale force strength this wind is a
underground chamber at the bottom of the property,
living entity, something that has to be experienced
which are regularly pumped out by the rather
to be believed, and we felt that only the most robust
euphemistically termed 'honey sucker', as the mobile
materials could withstand these severe weather
waste-water tank is called. As we have no formal
conditions. Our obvious choice, therefore, lay with clay bricks. I have a personal preference for the warmth and earthiness of clay bricks and I particularly like the 'industrial chic' look they impart to interiors.
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carbon debt associated with building maintenance.
digger-load of earth was turned. It began with seeing
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: The walls going up; Clive inspecting the steel mesh and plastic sheeting of the foundations; Installing windows on the north side; Fitting a door; The tiles that nearly did Clive in; Clive checking measurements against the plan.
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While owner-building a sustainable house is not for everyone, for those with the necessary will and skillset, there is immense satisfaction in knowing that you are creating your home in such a way that it is not contributing to any unsustainable planetary load, carbon or otherwise. garden to water we do not need a grey-water system
labour and commissioned building professionals such
and so have not made provision for one.
as our architect, structural engineer, surveyor and
With urbanisation increasingly encroaching on
electrician from neighbouring areas. We also made
natural areas in the Western Cape we certainly didn't
nearly everything ourselves on site, including 14
want a house of heroic proportions, and consequently
large, exposed wooden rafters.
there is not a centimetre of wasted space on our
In practical terms, because we were initially more
building plan, which came in at 240m2, including two
idealistic than experienced, many of our decisions
terraces and a combined double garage and workshop.
had to be revised along the way. We found it
This means that there are no extra-long passages
necessary to adapt to the varied and extreme weather
and extraneous or over-large rooms. Our house has
conditions, eventually coming to terms with our
been designed specifically for our comfortable, yet
nemesis, the north-westerly wind. We also learnt to
modest lifestyle. But because of the easy flow and the
solve unanticipated dilemmas with unexpectedly
five-metre high ceiling in the main living area, there
creative solutions such as using solid stone pine
is a wonderful feeling of light and space.
sustainably harvested from the slopes of Table
We made the decision to passively cool the house by having glass sliding doors strategically placed on
Mountain as lintels instead of conventional cement ones.
opposite north and south facades of the main living
While owner-building a sustainable house is not
area, which means that we can take advantage of sea
for everyone, for those with the necessary will and
breezes coming off the sea 500m away simply by
skillset, there is immense satisfaction in knowing
opening the sliding doors. These glass facades also
that you are creating your home in such a way that
allow even the most meagre of winter sunshine to
it is not contributing to any unsustainable planetary
come directly into the house, passively warming it.
load, carbon or otherwise. There is also the delight
Apart from these steps, where possible we bought
of getting things just the way you want them. For us
Proudly SA, sourcing most of our material from local
it was the solution to a major problem but we also
suppliers in order to keep the funds generated by the
managed to have fun along the way.
SG
project in our community – buying tiles, for example, from the potter directly in front of us. We hired local
with the lintels 'Builder Bob' looking pleased
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For more on this story visit www.caroleknight.co.za.
Our heavy-duty exposed rafters
45 S G
Tech
The AR9000 Air Conditioner
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ď ź
ď ź
We are relentless in our pursuit of innovation and we are particularly proud of the advanced technology and design of this air conditioner that manages to address the needs of consumers before they are even realised. Michael McKechnie, Business Leader for Digital Air Solutions at Samsung Electronics SA
Samsung Electronics announced the launch of the new Samsung Air Conditioner engineered to deliver exceptional cooling, comfort and hygienic benefits with a striking triangular design at Samsung Forum 2014 in Malaga, Spain, recently. This innovative design allows for a wider inlet, wider outlet and bigger fans while maintaining a compact exterior profile to enhance the overall air conditioning experience. We take a look.
47 S G
T
he unit's unique triangular design delivers
to cool any room quickly. It then automatically
improved performance by circulating cool
changes the mode to Comfort Cool to maintain the
air faster, further and wider while Samsung's
desired temperature. Users won't feel cold and don't
Digital Inverter Technology provides significantly
have to keep manually changing the settings or
greater energy efficiencyii. In addition, the Virus
turning the air conditioner on and off.
i
Doctor and Easy Filter eliminate dust, contaminants, allergens, bacteria and virusesiii. 'R&D and design play a key role in how we develop our products as we're always focused on improving our customers' day to day experience with technology,' said Michael McKechnie, Business Leader for Digital Air Solutions at Samsung Electronics SA. 'We are relentless in our pursuit of innovation and we are particularly proud of the advanced technology and design of this air conditioner that manages to address the needs of
Capacity control Energy efficiency is a key purchasing decision for consumers nowdays. The Samsung Air Conditioner's Single User mode uses less compressor capacity, reducing power consumptionv, while still providing a cool and comfortable environment. This ensures that users won't have to worry about the electricity bill even as the only person in a room.
consumers before they are even realised. The unique
Designed for the family
design and cooling capabilities bring the ultimate in
The new unit features Samsung's exclusive Virus
comfort to our customers, while embedded smart
Doctor that keeps families healthy and comfortable
features ensure that this is a convenient smart
through innovative air purifying technology, which
appliance with a long lifespan. That's the definition
neutralises harmful contaminants in the air. Virus
of true innovation.'
Doctor has received various accolades including a 2010 AHR Expo Innovation Award in the indoor
Changing the flow Designed to be exceptionally efficient, its unique triangular design has a wider inlet, wider outlet and a bigger fan to ensure that air is cooled and expelled faster (26%), further (14m metres) and wider (2x wider)iv – reaching every corner of a room.
Digital inverter technology The new air conditioner features an energy-efficient Digital Inverter Technology with EER of 10.1. It can maintain the desired temperature without frequently shutting off, so it consumes less electricity. The Digital Inverter Technology helps users to stay cool for long periods of time, while using the minimum amount of energy. The Fast Cool mode allows the air conditioner
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air-quality category, a 1st Air Day Minister of the Environmental Award, and the Jang Young Sil Award. Virus Doctor and Easy Filter eliminates dust, dangerous airborne contaminants and allergens, as well as bacteria and viruses, including the Influenza A and Corona viruses – firstly using a filter and secondly with Virus Doctor. The Easy Filter is located outside, on the top, for easy maintenance.
Stylish & smart The pure Crystal Gloss finish and uniquely curved design of the Samsung Air Conditioner deliver a premium look. Like aerodynamic, high performance sports cars, every aspect of its streamlined body is encased in dual-injected, transparent material for an elegant finish that blends seamlessly into any modern household or office. Using an application1 on a smartphone, the
ď ź
The unique design and cooling capabilities bring the ultimate in comfort to our customers, while embedded smart features ensure that this is a convenient smart appliance with a long lifespan. That's the definition of true innovation.'
ď ź
Michael McKechnie, Business Leader for Digital Air Solutions at Samsung Electronics SA Using an app on a smartphone, the Smart Wi-Fi function lets users remotely control the settings of the Samsung Air Conditioner to schedule its operation.
Smart Wi-Fi function lets users remotely control the settings of the Samsung Air Conditioner to schedule its operation. In any location with a wireless network, users can instantly turn it on and off, select the operating mode and temperature. Additionally,
the
air
conditioner
is
able
to
communicate operational time and electricity usage as well as providing filter cleaning reminders. The unit even remembers preferred operational settings and cooling preferences.
Smart monitoring The Smart Installation is a self-diagnosis feature that ensures the air conditioner is installed perfectly by the service engineer. It automatically checks for installation faults that can cause problems when using the air conditioner. The Smart Check automatic error-monitoring system detects and diagnoses problems and provides easy troubleshooting solutions using a smartphone application2, saving users time and preventing unnecessary costs prior to a service callout.
SG
Visit www.samsung.com
*Tested in Kitasato Environmental Science Center (Japan) & Yonsei Univ. (Korea)/Korea test lab (FITI/KEMTI) and Japan test lab (ITEA). Effective on four viruses, including Subtype H1N1, and certain bacteria. Data has been measured under specific testing conditions and may differ based on enviro-actors. *The availability of each service may differ by country. *All functionality, features, specifications and other product information provided in this document including, but not limited to, the benefits, design, pricing, components, performance, availability, and capabilities of the product are subject to change without notice or obligation. 1 Available on Android and iOS devices. 2 Available on Android and iOS devices. This function operates for certain error mode only and is not substitute for periodic service checkup. i Tested on AR09HSFSBWK model. Compared with Samsung conventional model AQV09TWS. ii Tested on AR09HSSDAWK/EU. Compared with Samsung conventional model AQ09TSB. iii Tested in Kitasato Environmental Science Center (Japan) & Yonsei Univ. (Korea)/Korea test lab (FITI/KEMTI) and Japan test lab (ITEA). Effective on 4 viruses, including Subtype H1N1, and certain bacteria. Data has been measured under specific testing conditions and may differ based on environmental factors. iv Tested on AR09HSFSBWK model. Compared with Samsung conventional model AQV09TWS. v Tested on AR09FSSSCWK/SA. Based on accumulated power consumption of normal mode vs. single user mode.
49 S G
Home
LED lighting We take a look at transforming your space from 'blah' to 'ahhh' with LED strip lights.
easy to install, it is extremely energy-efficient and versatile. It is particularly popular in kitchens and baths, where task lighting in multiple areas is needed. Depending on which brand you buy, LED strip lights are often available in different coloured strips
I
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and there are usually options for the colour of the n this photo of a beautifully lit kitchen, LED strip
light itself, ranging from warm white to cool white
lights – also called LED tape lights, LED ribbon
or even RGB colour-changing.
lights and LED rope lights – were used for under-
Many interior designers and DIY homeowners
and over-cabinet lighting as well as to illuminate the
are now discovering the versatility and usefulness
counter tops and cabinet toe-kicks.
of LED strip lights. They are a great option when
Like the look? You can create it yourself with
you want to create accent lighting, which adds
LED strip lights. These thin strips of tiny LED lights
drama to a room by creating visual interest. As
come with an adhesive backing for peel-and-stick
part of an interior design scheme, accent lighting
installation. This type of LED lighting is not only
is used to draw the eye to specific areas or objects
design
LED strip lights are often available in
different coloured strips and there are usually options for the colour of the light itself, ranging from warm white to cool white or even RGB colour-changing.
such as houseplants, paintings and other prized possessions. When tucked into bookshelves, above cabinets and inside coves, the LED strip light disappears, leaving targeted areas awash in light to aid in task work or highlight architectural features. Another popular use for LED strip lights is for
under-cabinet
lighting,
which
illuminates
countertops in the kitchen as well as vanities and mirrors in the bathroom. In bathrooms, LED strip lights can be tucked behind mirrors, under cabinets, above a tray ceiling and under the toe-kick to leave targeted areas awash in light and highlight architectural features. Most LED strip lights are dimmable, making them an energy-efficient and money-saving alternative.
Dimming is a great element to add to your lighting design because it creates different layers of light, which adds depth and dramatic impact to your space. Because they make a big impact on how your space looks, it's important to invest in good-quality LED strip lights. When it comes to lighting, quality
is key. Also, in the long haul, high-quality LED strip lights pay for themselves in terms of performance, durability, longevity and energy savings, let alone being a more enviro-conscious option.
SG
For more info see advert below.
If you are looking to buy LED Lights for your home or business you have come to the right place! We ship our LED Lights nationwide, as well as provide LED Lighting services in Cape Town, Johannesburg,
Durban and Pretoria. In 2009, we started looking at solutions for people and businesses to reduce their electricity consumption. We realised then that even if half the claims that LED Lighting manufacturers were making were true, if would result in massive energy- and cost-savings for individuals and businesses alike. With the idea of providing cost-effective lighting solutions we took the plunge in what was still a fledgling market in South Africa with regards to LED Lighting, and we are still driven to provide cost-effective, high-quality and energy-efficient lighting to help save South African's as much money as possible and to protect them from annual electricity hikes!
o o o o o
T8 LED Tubes
2,3,4 & 5 Foot options, Eskom Approved, 3 Year Warranty, 50% electricity saving, 50,000 hours lifespan compared to 6,000 for a fluorescent tube
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5W LED Downlight
o 50W Halogen replacement, o 90% electricity saving o 50,000 hour lifespan o Eskom Approved, o 3 Year Warranty, o 3 Colour Options, o Dimmable option
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Building N ews
The proposed Greenstar Floating Hotel and Conference Center, Maldives by architect Koen Olthuis Waterstudio.NL/Developer Dutch Docklands – www.dutchdocklands.com
Floating cities
A Dutch architect leads the way: Koen Olthuis and his Waterstudio.NL (The Hague) focus on planning and realising water-based architectural projects; the results are often floating cities that drift on the surface in scattered arrangements. His reasons for building on water are twofold. Low-lying Holland is an artificial creation and constantly battling the incursion of water, making it high time to find new solutions. 'We need to develop proactive, not defensive solutions to these issues. When the water starts to threaten you, you build on it,' states Olthuis. On a different note, there is a global demand for alternative urban development visions beyond high-rise constructs and expansive blueprints with a large footprint. In future, metropolises will grow beyond the boundaries of terra firma. Built from buoyant concrete to allow these floating houses to adjust to the tides and imminent flooding, the resulting habitations don’t quite meet onshore standards yet. They certainly lack green spaces. It will take a strong and seismic social shift to turn water-based living into a mainstream choice and encourage decision-makers to back sizeable investments into this living concept and attract more people to a life on the waves. One thing remains certain: future city planning will undergo some drastic changes – and people will simply have to adapt to new and unknown circumstances.
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50 th Green Star certified building in SA The Green Building Council SA (GBCSA) developed a series of Green Star SA rating tools that set the standards for green building and provides clear guidelines on what constitutes a 'green building'. The Green Star SA tools allow for certification of buildings based on the following levels of achievement: 4 Star Green Star SA Certification – Best Practice 5 Star Green Star SA Certification – South African Excellence 6 Star Green Star SA Certification – World Leadership
Government building to achieve Green Star SA status are: Department of Environmental Affairs Head Office; Pretoria, Gauteng – 6-Star
SANRAL Corporate Head Office; Pretoria, Gauteng – 4-Star (2012)
Sisonke District Offices; Ixopo, Kwazulu Natal – 5-Star (2012) City of Cape Town Electricity Services Head Office; Cape Town, Western Cape – 4-Star (2012) Human Settlements Contact Centre, Manenberg; Cape Town, Western Cape – 4-Star (2012) Agrivaal Building National Department of Public Works; Pretoria, Gauteng – 4-Star (2012) Government Communications and Information Services Head Office; Pretoria, Gauteng – 4-Star (2013) SANRAL Western Region Office; Cape Town, Western Cape –
4-Star (2013) Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University’s Business School; Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape – 4-Star (2013) Department of Environmental Affairs Head Office; Pretoria, Gauteng – 6-Star (2013) Vodafone Site Solutions building; Midrand; Gauteng- 6-Star
Other Green Star SA certified buildings are: Vodafone Site Solutions building; Midrand, Gauteng- 6-Star (2011) 40-On-Oak; Melrose Arch, Gauteng – 4-Star (2011) DSTV City; Randburg, Gauteng – 4-Star (2013)
Alice Lane Phase 1 & Phase 2; Sandton, Gauteng – 4-Star (2013) National English Literature Museum (NELM); Grahamstown, Eastern Cape – 5-Star (2013) Hyundai Head Office; Bedfordview, Gauteng – 4-Star(2013) Chevron Project CORE building; Cape Town, Western Cape – 5-Star (2013) Lakeside Office Park; Centurion, Gauteng – 4-Star and also awarded SAPOA Innovative Excellence Award (2013) No 1 and No 2 Silo buildings; Cape Town, Western Cape – 6-Star and 4-Star respectively (2013) No 1 Silo building; Cape Town – 6-Star
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Tiny pod-shaped house designed for the 21st century nomad
2014 Green Building Megatrends Green building in North American will continue its strong growth in 2014. The focus on energy efficiency in all buildings will continue to grow, as will the role of building automation for energy-efficiency using cloud-based systems. The design and operation of net-zero-energy buildings will continue to grow. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) – a green building program – will attract competitors as never before. The green building industry’s focus will continue to shift from new construction to existing buildings. Green building performance disclosure will spread rapidly. Healthy building products, product disclosure declarations, and various 'red lists' of chemicals of concern will become increasingly contentious. Solar power use in buildings will continue to grow. Awareness of the scarcity of water and an associated growing crisis in fresh water supply will increase globally. Source: Green building consultant Jerry Yudelson (pictured above).
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Green Mountain College students are redefining the American dream with a tiny 'living system' home that offers a mobile lifestyle with a reduced enviro-footprint. Created as part of professor Lucas Brown's Renewable Energy and Ecological Design (REED) class, the 7.3m2 pod-shaped house includes a sleeping area, rainwater collection, and a 120W solar powered electrical system. Nicknamed OTIS (Optimal Traveling Independent Space), this self-sufficient mobile home was built with reclaimed materials whenever possible. The semester-long design and build project measures 2.46x3.7m and was custom built to comfortably fit one person. Brown’s 16 students were divided into separate teams to design and construct the house's water, energy, heat, and building envelope systems. 'The appeal of living a more nomadic lifestyle represents a new take on the American Dream, especially among students in this millennial generation,' says Brown. 'The students aren’t interested in being tied down with rent or a mortgage right after college. Something about having their own living space which is very low maintenance and very mobile suggests a different set of priorities.' To cut down on the waste stream, the students also installed a composting toilet and rainwater catchment system that independently supplies the bath and kitchen. The lightweight living quarters can be easily loaded up and towed on a standard 1.54x2.46m trailer. The unit is currently for sale in the $8 000-10 000 range.
Tiny house made of mushrooms
The Material Science Company has built the frame of their 'Mushroom Tiny House' out of wood but filled it with a material made of mushrooms, making it one of the first mycelium-based abodes in the world. The Mushroom Tiny House isn't a behemoth. With a footprint of 3.7x2.15m, it’s more of an Enoki than a full-grown Portabello. But what the home lacks in size, it makes up for with its impressive use of green materials. Unlike traditional houses, which are often lined with petroleum-based foam insulation, the wooden walls of the Mushroom Tiny House are lined with mycelium (or mushroom 'roots'). This mushroom insulation forms an airtight seal and excellent thermal protection. According to Ecovative, it is also affordable, fire resistant and has low or no VOCs. In addition to naturally-grown insulation, the house also has ceiling tiles made of mushroom material. 'At its core, our vision in the building industry is to offer architects, builders and consumers the ultimate solution for eco-friendly, energy-efficient construction at a price that is far less costly to our health, the environment and our wallets,' said Ecovative Co-Founder Eben Bayer.
Gorgeous solar geodesic dome crowns cob house in the Arctic Circle
Fans of the Northern Lights will drool over the Nature House, a gorgeous geodesic dome home located on the Sandhornøya island of northern Norway. Built by Solardome Industries, the glass and aluminium dome crowns the Hjertefolger family's recently completed three-level cob home. In addition to its ability to withstand extreme Arctic winds and temperatures, the eco-friendly abode includes solar panel technology, recycled building materials, and even a garden for growing produce. The Solardome Pro single-glazed geodesic dome was finished in just three weeks to provide shelter to the Hjertefolgers as they built their cob home out of sand, clay, water and other organic natural materials. The newly completed home features five bedrooms, two bathrooms, a lounge, kitchen, dining space and even a garage. By building into the earth, the cozy, yet spacious home minimises the loss of heat provided by the log burning stove and solar panels. 'Our house is amazing – we have been blown away by the magnificence of the dome and the life it is helping us to lead,' says the Hjertefolgers. 'We have all worked really hard to create our eco-friendly home, our dream, and our little sustainable bubble that supports our eco values and that will allow our family to grow up in a beautiful, ecological and healthy environment. We are excited about the years ahead.' In hopes of inspiring others with their self-build project, the Hjertefolgers plan to hold classes, tours, workshops and concerts at the Nature House. They also intend to build additional natural cabins to accommodate yoga retreats and family summer camps.
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Home Global water consumption has risen almost tenfold since 1900
W
hile water supply limits are being reached, SA's
demand for fresh water is increasing. Previously unserviced communities are gaining access to
and water supply capacity is now
piped water for the first time, and rising income levels
being reached in many parts
increase the demand for swimming pools, green lawns and
of the world. SA's freshwater
other water-reliant luxuries. It is estimated that 11 of the country's 19 water
supply is particularly vulnerable
catchment areas will not be able to supply enough water
because of its location in a
to meet demand by 2025. As supply runs short and
region with low and unreliable rainfall. Annual rains are often not enough to replenish the dams and other sources of fresh water that supply our taps between rainy seasons. On top of that, climate change is likely to bring about a combination of rising temperatures and reduced or more erratic rainfall, placing further pressure on already constrained water supplies – particularly to the west of the country. And then most of SA's available water sources are already fully utilised and there are limited options available for increasing water supply. Nedbank's Green Living Guide outlines the many steps we can all make, at home or at work, to help make our water cleaner, fresher and last longer. Here are some of the key points.
demand grows, water prices are beginning to rise, tracking energy prices higher. Alternative sources of water, such as desalination, are highly energy-intensive and expensive, so shifting behaviour to minimise water wastage and achieve more from the country's remaining water resources is crucially important. Another threat to SA's limited freshwater supplies is contamination by human activities and wastes. Most homeowners do not think about what happens to their sewage once it is flushed away. However, in many parts of the country improper management of wastewater causes these wastes to leak from pipes or overflow from treatment facilities, polluting freshwater sources. A recent report on the country's wastewater treatment works found that 44% of those monitored were categorised as being 'high risk' or 'critical risk', while only 26% were considered to operate within desirable parameters. Water bodies are further polluted by the runoff of oil and other pollutants from roads and driveways, chemical fertilisers and pesticides from gardens, and salts and chlorine from pool backwash water.
What then to do? The ultimate goal for fresh water is to make the best use of every drop. This means that wastage is minimised, pollution is eradicated and ecosystems are allowed to continue to provide water-filtering services. Nature can clean water at a much lower cost than mechanised treatment works. Every household – particularly in higher-income brackets – should save water. We can do this by reducing water leaks and wastage, improving water use efficiency and re-using lower grades of water, such as grey water and pool backwash water, for non-potable purposes.
why worry a S G 56
Alternative sources of water, such as desalination, are highly energy-intensive and expensive, so shifting behaviour to minimise water wastage and achieve more from the country's remaining water resources is crucially important.
about water ? 57 S G
Dishwashing by hand If you keep the basin water to only a few centimetres deep, washing by hand can be the most waterand energy-efficient method for small loads of dishes. Fill the second basin or a tub to a shallow level with water for rinsing – don't leave the tap running. Washing items in the order from least dirty (glasses) to most dirty (pots and pans) helps to keep your water cleaner for longer. Remember to use non-toxic, biodegradable and phosphate-free dishwashing liquid to protect our water resources and the ecosystems that depend on them.
Dishwashing machines
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to use ecologically-friendly dishwasher powder and skip the rinse aid altogether – most dishwasher powders are sufficient on their own.
Reducing toilet flush capacity Toilet flushing is one of the biggest wastes of fresh water, yet it has become a norm to which most of the world aspires and is unlikely to be replaced any time soon. Standard SA toilets use nine or more litres of fresh drinking water to remove human wastes, yet in many cases the same result could be achieved with much less water. A simple way to reduce the amount of water
If you regularly need to wash large loads, using a
required for each flush is to adjust the height of the
dishwasher can be more water- and energy-efficient
float in the cistern so that the water in the cistern
than washing dishes by hand. Choose a dishwasher
refills to a lower level after each flush. Alternatively,
with an energy rating of A or A+ that uses 20l
some of the volume of the water in the cistern can
of water or less per cycle (older models use an
be displaced through the installation of a brick or
average of 30-53l). Make sure it is properly loaded
closed 2l bottle filled with water in a corner that
and completely full before switching it on and use
does not affect the toilet mechanisms. Some new
economy wash settings or short cycles.
toilets have cisterns as small as 6l, and it is worth
Skip the drying cycle and let the dishes dry
considering a smaller cistern when purchasing a
naturally by leaving the dishwasher door open once
new toilet as a means of conserving water. Nedbank
the rinse cycle has ended. Once again, remember
worked with the organisation Dry Planet to produce
A recent report on the country's wastewater treatment works found that 44% of those monitored were categorised as being 'high risk' or 'critical risk', while only 26% were considered to operate within desirable parameters. Water bodies are further polluted by the runoff of oil and other pollutants from roads and driveways, chemical fertilisers and pesticides from gardens, and salts and chlorine from pool backwash water.
Future Flush, its own version of a water-saving device that fits in the toilet cistern.
Grey-water toilets For a more substantial investment in water saving there are systems available in SA that allow for
Dual-flush and multi-flush mechanisms Many modern toilets have a two-button or dual-flush mechanism that allows one to choose between a full flush for solids and a half flush for liquids. Multi-flush systems have a handle-flushing mechanism, but only release water for as long as you hold down the handle, ensuring that you do not use all the water in the cistern for each flush. When installing a new toilet, consider one with
grey-water re-use. This means that water from the shower, washing machine, basins and bath can be collected, partially treated and supplied to the toilet cistern for flushing. Considering that 20-70% of household water use is for toilet flushing, re-using grey water to flush toilets is one of the best ways to reduce household fresh water demand. Although the plumbing requirements can be challenging and it is not always possible to convert an existing toilet to a grey-water system, flushing with grey water allows for money to be saved throughout the year because it reduces water and sewage bills.
a dual-flush or multi-flush mechanism. If your toilet already has one of these installed, it is important to educate its users on how to use it to save water when flushing. Alternatively, if you already have a conventional handle flushing mechanism installed, remember to
Water- and energy-saving bathing tips Water is essential for keeping clean, but small
lift the handle after enough water has been released
changes can help to reduce your use of hot water,
into the bowl. This means that the whole cistern
saving both water and electricity:
does not need to be refilled after every flush.
A five-minute shower uses 38-60l of water
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your master water shutoff valve is located. This (depending on the efficiency of the shower
could save litres of water and prevent damage
head), while a conventional bath can use
to your home should a pipe burst.
150-200l of water. To save water you could have a short shower (five minutes or less) instead of a bath.
If you have a solar water heater, ensure that you shower at the end of the day when the water is still hot from the sun rather than in
If you are wasting water waiting for the shower
the morning, when additional electricity may be
or bath water to heat up, collect it in a bucket
required to increase the water temperature.
or similar container for use in the garden or for toilet flushing rather than letting it run down the drain. Turn taps off properly to ensure that they do not drip and replace the washer on any taps that continue dripping. A leaking tap can waste around one litre of water per hour. Ensure that everyone in your home knows where
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Water-saving fittings A well-designed shower head allows for a comfortable shower without needlessly wasting water. Wasteful shower heads release 15l or more of water per minute, while more efficient low-flow shower heads release about 9-10l per minute at full power. A simple test of your current shower head would be
Every household – particularly in higher-income brackets – should save water. We can do this by reducing water leaks and wastage, improving water use efficiency and re-using lower grades of water, such as grey water and pool backwash water, for non-potable purposes.
air-conditioning unit attached to the exterior of the building and is typically connected to a geyser inside. As heat pumps do not require roof space or direct sunlight, they are easier to incorporate into the design of buildings than solar water heaters. However, their overall life cycle costs make them more expensive than solar water heaters for household applications. A heat pump's ability to heat water is limited by the temperature of the surrounding air, so it typically draws a small amount of electricity each day to raise temperatures to desired levels.
to see how long it takes to fill a 2l jug – if it takes 12 seconds or less at full power it is wasting water.
Visit www.eskomidm.co.za to find out more about Eskom rebates on heat pumps.
When less hot water is used per shower, less cold water is released into the geyser to replace it, so water-saving shower heads can help to conserve electricity as well as water. Similarly, tap aerators help to reduce the amount of water used in hand basins by adding air to the flow of water. Many modern taps come with aerators, but they can also be retrofitted to some existing taps.
Food & gardens Food gardens can be tailored to suit virtually any living situation: you don't need to have your own piece of ground or even lots of space. Fresh produce can be grown in containers on a balcony or rooftop. Vertical gardens, which make use of trellises, brackets or shelves with rows of pots, are another
Sit tubs
space-saving option. If none of these suits you,
As a general rule, shower whenever possible – a
nearby and enjoy the community aspect of growing
large amount of water and energy is needed to fill
food alongside others.
consider renting a space in an allotment garden
a bathtub. The amount of water and energy used
Watering your garden with a hose or irrigation
to fill a bath is largely due to its size and although
system connected to the water mains uses far more
SA homeowners tend to install full-length baths
potable water than necessary. Re-using potable
averaging 1.6-1.9m in length, there are shorter
water or capturing rainwater saves the energy
options available that allow for a relaxing bath
required to treat water to drinking quality and pump
using less water.
it to your home. It also avoids the wasting of water
If you are installing or replacing a bath, consider
through leaks in the water supply system.
installing a 'sit tub' as an alternative. These baths
Using grey water and harvesting rainwater are
are around 1.1-1.2m in length. While you probably
therefore two ways in which you can reduce your
won't be able to stretch your legs fully, they require
usage of potable water, while still giving your
less than half the volume of water for bathing than
garden the hydration it needs.
a full-length bathtub would. To find out which household activities use the most water and where you can save you can conduct a water audit using the spreadsheet at www. capetown.gov.za/en/KeepSavingWater/Pages/ Doyourwateraudit.aspx.
Heat pumps Water can be heated through the extraction of
Drip irrigation system The only part of a plant that needs water is the roots, and any water left on stems, leaves and flowers simply evaporates. Unlike a traditional irrigation system, which wastes water by spraying everything within a certain radius, a drip irrigation system waters plants at the soil level just above the roots, or waters the roots directly.
warmth from the air by means of a heat pump,
A medium to large garden would benefit
which uses 50%-70% less electricity than a traditional
from a piped system, which could be installed by
electric geyser. A heat pump resembles a small
professionals or purchased from a garden centre.
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If you have a small garden, you could skip pipes
options such as gravel or bark chips or raised
and instead re-use plastic water bottles with holes
wooden decking that allows water to pass between
punched in the sides and bottom, buried next to
the slats. Permeable brick pavers are also an option
the plant's roots with the bottle's neck exposed. The
and are particularly useful for high-traffic areas,
plant can then be watered by hand or you can hose
such as driveways or parking areas. They can even
the water directly into the bottle, with no waste of
be used in conjunction with a built-in rainwater
water due to evaporation.
harvesting system that collects the runoff from
Grey-water system
See www.savingwater.co.za/2011/06/01/09/
Water that has been used in one or two applications,
harvest-rainwater-and-use-it-in-the-home for more.
but is still of sufficient quality to use for another purpose, usually toilet flushing or irrigation, is described as grey water. For example, water from your hand basins, washing machine, bath or shower can be redirected into your toilet or onto your lawn instead of being wasted down the drain. Grey-water systems can be installed by professionals or
Pools Pool pumps and filtering systems can contribute to as much as 11% of a household's electricity consumption. The following tips can help you to save electricity when maintaining your pool:
you could install one yourself. The price varies
If your pool pump and filtering system is
according to the size of the system. Local suppliers
currently running for more than six hours per
have reported a payoff period of three years as a
day, rather adjust it to operate on two cycles
result of reduced water and sewage bills. If you
per day totalling six hours. If this is insufficient,
are using grey water in your garden, remember to
try increasing the filtering time by increments
use non-toxic, biodegradable soap products or you
of 30 minutes until the water remains clear and
could damage your plants and contaminate local
chemically balanced.
water sources.
Rainwater harvesting Capturing rainwater off your roof (or by means of permeable paving) is another way to save potable water. The rainwater is directed into a tank, which can be placed above ground, out of sight or buried.
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underneath the pavers.
During winter reduce your pool pump time to around three hours per day or consider turning it off for a few days at a time. Set your pool pump to run outside of the 5-9pm period to reduce your household's contribution to peak energy demand.
The optimum tank size depends on the roof
Clean your pool filters regularly, but make sure
catchment area and can be as small as 260l or up
you don't dispose of your backwash water into the
to 27 000l for large properties.
stormwater system. One of the greatest losses of
Harvested rainwater can be used to flush toilets
water from a swimming pool occurs as a result of
or water vegetable gardens, plant beds and lawns.
evaporation when the sun warms the surface of the
Again, there are several reputable local companies
water. Covering your pool or part of it when it is
that can install rainwater harvesting systems, or you
not in use can reduce the amount of water lost to
could try to install one yourself.
evaporation by up to 80% and cut the amount of
The overuse of hard surfaces, such as concrete
electricity required for cleaning and heating. Those
and asphalt, in urban and suburban areas means
with heated pools can reduce the cost of energy
that storm water is prevented from filtering through
required to heat the pool by up to 80% by covering
the soil and recharging underground water sources,
it when it is not in use. Impervious pool covers
called aquifers. Also, the pollutants that are usually
prevent heated surface water from escaping into
removed from the storm water when it passes
the atmosphere as water vapour and help to keep
through the soil end up polluting rivers.
pools clean by acting as barriers against dirt and
Instead of laying concrete or solid brick pavers
leaves. This means that the pool does not have to
for your outdoor entertainment area, use permeable
be topped up as often and the filter does not need
to run as often or as long. All you really need is a sheet of floating plastic to cover a pool, but for safety and aesthetic reasons it is worth having a cover professionally fitted. There are a number of different designs and materials on the market, but the most important requirement is that it does not allow water vapour to escape. A pool net will not suffice for this purpose.
Backwashing Swimming pools with granular or sand filters need to be backwashed regularly so that the dirt, bacteria, chemicals and other pollutants can be flushed from the filter. These substances are harmful to aquatic ecosystems and human health. It is now a legal requirement that discarded backwash water must be disposed of into the sewage system for further treatment, instead of into stormwater systems that lead directly to rivers and the sea. Many pools are not set up to cater for the disposal of backwash water into the sewer, and arrangements need to be made to allow for this in compliance with the law. As an alternative, systems are available in SA that allow for backwash water to be stored and treated on the premises so that it can be re-used for non-potable purposes. This saves fresh water and reduces pressure on overburdened sewage systems.
Natural pools SA has approximately 650  000 swimming pools
containing
32.5bn  l of
our
country's
scarce
freshwater resources. In addition to losing a lot of this water to evaporation, swimming pools require a great deal of energy to clean. Also, the chemicals or salts they use to keep the water clear are energy-intensive to produce and can pollute aquatic ecosystems. Natural pools use ecosystems to purify and clean
the water surface) or be situated elsewhere in
pool water, eliminating the need for chemicals and
the garden. A wide range of attractive designs
making the water more pleasant and healthier to
can be accommodated. The water in the pool is
swim in. Water is pumped between the swimming
enviro-friendly and is safe to use in your garden if
area and a constructed indigenous wetland, where
required as it does not contain salt or chemicals.
aquatic plants act as filters to remove and dissolve
Some swimming pools can be retrofitted to
nutrients in the water before it is returned to
operate as natural pools. It can, however, be
the deeper swimming area. The planted filtration
difficult to achieve the right ecosystem balance to
zone can be integrated with the pool (separated
keep the water clear. Rather consult a natural-pool
from the swimming zone with a wall beneath
specialist than trying to do this yourself.
SG
These pages were made possible with the kind assistance of Nedbank
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Energy
Powe behind the s S G 64
er scenes
If must be rather funny if you are a clown fish, or a jagged-tooth shark, at the Two Oceans Aquarium. When the doors open every morning, you will be greeted by adoring wide-eyed fans, anxious to take photos with you; people standing in pure awe and shaking their heads in disbelief that they have just met some of the world's most famous inhabitants. But what a lot of those fans are not aware of, is all the activity that goes on behind the scenes to keep the likes of the butterflyfish and loggerhead turtle in top form. Dr Hin Wah Li, Communications Programme Manager at Project 90 by 2030, reports.
I
n addition to the dedicated team at the Two Oceans Aquarium, there are many systems in place, including energy and water systems,
which run continuously so that the aquarium fan walk is as enjoyable and educational as possible. The aquarium first teamed up with Project 90 by 2030 in 2010, when Project 90 by 2030 set off on a journey to make renewable energy awareness more accessible to South Africans. As an organisation, Project 90 by 2030 seeks to inspire as many South Africans as possible to shift gears and change how they engage with their environment. This journey led to renewable energy and energy-efficiency
installations
and
awareness
campaigns in key public education footholds around the country – including the Johannesburg Zoo, the National Zoological Gardens in Pretoria, Durban
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Botanic Gardens, Sci-Bono Discovery Centre in
Maine, the technical manager at the Aquarium, and
Johannesburg, and, of course, the Two Oceans
his team. Essentially what the system consists of
Aquarium in Cape Town. Installations included
is a box partially submerged in the exhibit. At one
solar-powered golf carts at Johannesburg Zoo
end of the box is a tube with a turbine fitted inside.
and the National Zoological Gardens; and, a solar
With every up and down movement of the wave, air
tracking system at the Durban Botanic Gardens.
is either being pushed out or drawn into the box.
The initiative also took Project 90 by 2030 to more remote locations in KwaZulu-Natal, such as
This movement of air turns the turbine, which in turn generates electricity.
the Reichenau Mission Station where a hydroelectric
The electricity generated is used to power
system was installed to provide energy to the nearby
educational materials on the initiative. For a more
community, and rural households in the Marianhill
in-depth look into this innovative initiative, see
area, which were fitted with solar home lighting kits.
video at the bottom of the page.
The collaboration with the Aquarium as a leading sustainability and education institution, led to the installation of a vertical wind turbine, located at the entrance, and a series of solar panels. These were installed to offset some of the electricity consumption of the Aquarium's administrative offices. Fast track to 2013, and Project 90 by 2030's work had expanded to include more water-saving initiatives (at the Aquarium, Johannesburg Zoo – including the installation of rainwater harvesting units and a solar-powered water purification unit – and enhancing water security in two rural villages in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal). Last year, the Aquarium and Project 90 by 2030 teamed up once again to extend the renewable energy and energy-efficiency installations and water saving initiative – but this time with a few innovative twists. This phase of the project saw the installation of heat exchangers – which all sounds rather technical,
The turbine (see pic above) has been clocked with wind speeds of over 100km per hour. The wave turbine project is an example of sustainable human innovation working in sync with nature. Our hope is for human-nature synergies to be the way of the future.
SG
but essentially what the system does, is to cool the air-conditioning chillers at the aquarium using seawater. While the system itself does save energy, the biggest saving is on water – approximately
For more information about Project 90 by 2030, visit www.90by2030.org.za or contact Hin Wah Li at hinwah@90x2030.org.za
4 000l of water (a limited or finite resource) on a daily basis. On top of this, the capacity of the existing solar panel system was also expanded.
WATCH THIS!
The most talked about and innovative aspect of the collaboration was the design and building of a wave turbine – which captures the wave energy from the kelp forest exhibit. Since the opening of the Aquarium, some 19 years ago, a wave has been generated in the kelp forest exhibit around the clock via a plunger system, to keep the kelp and other plants alive. The wave turbine was the brainchild of Mike de
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A Wave Ahead
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Buildings
Intaka Island S G 68
Intaka had an 8ha ephemeral pan declared a conservation area and an adjacent 8ha re-designed and constructed wetland to perform the natural role of a wetland, being water purification.
sland
Intaka Island in Century City, Cape Town, has been described as 'the co-existence of nature conservation and property development'. Leandri Van der Vyver reports.
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I
ntaka Island is a hidden gem of Cape Town that has come about through a novel collaboration of property development and nature conservation.
In '96 the development of Century City faced the combined challenge of conserving the wetland ecosystems of the area as well as maintaining the clean and safe waterways that were incorporated into the precinct design. The solution was inspired
Collectively across the island there is a rich diversity of both fauna and flora – 213 species of indigenous plants. Twenty four of these plants are rare and threatened with extinction.
by nature, with an 8ha ephemeral pan being declared a conservation area and an adjacent 8ha re-designed and constructed wetland to perform the natural role of a wetland, water purification. The inception of the island was guided by the Intaka Island Blouvlei Environmental Committee. This
committee
was
made
up
of
various
representatives including the Century City Property Owners Association (CCPOA), an enviro-manager, enviro-specialists that included the chairperson from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), a botanist, an ornithologist, and an enviro-manager from the City Of Cape Town. This group met on a monthly basis and provided their expertise in the creation and implementation of the Environmental Management Plans for the various phases of Intaka Island. This committee still meets every month and advises the CCPOA on the current management issues. The enviro-management objectives set out for Intaka Island were as follows: Conserve rare and threatened vegetation types. Conserve a rare type of wetland habitat. Provide a habitat for birds, especially breeding water birds. Cleanse the water which is used in the network of canals at Century City. Provide Century City with a beautiful and healthy 'green lung'. Provide the people of Cape Town with a recreational and educational amenity.
The Island
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pond different natural cleaning processes take place using indigenous plants, imitating one of the many crucial functions of natural wetlands: water filtration. Not only does this play a vital role in maintaining the water quality of the canals, but this part of the island also serves as a habitat for breeding water birds, as well as the recreation and education of visitors. The eastern half of the island consists of seasonal pans. These pans are representative of how the Cape Flats looked 200 years ago. The salt pans fill up with water in the wet winter season and then slowly dry up through evaporation during the summer. It has typical salt marsh vegetation adapted to the high salinity in summer. The terrestrial areas are covered with a rare subtype of fynbos known as sand plain fynbos, as well as strandveld vegetation which manages to survive in the challenging environment of deep, nutrient-poor sandy soils, as well as strong winds and drought. Collectively across the island there is a rich diversity of both fauna and flora. There are 213 species of indigenous plants that can be found on Intaka, many of which produce attractive flowers from late winter to early summer. Twenty four of these plants are on the red data list as they are rare and threatened with extinction. Intaka is one of the few places in Cape Town where one can still find this type of vegetation. Despite its relatively small size and urban location, the Intaka supports some 120 species of regular and annual occurring birds. On any visit a number of different bird species can be found. The
To get a better understanding of Intaka Island it
main factors that enable Intaka to be so rich in bird
is best to look at its two 'halves' separately. The
species are its seven different primary habitats that
western half of Intaka Island is made up of what
have been created. These included both wetland
is called the reconstructed wetlands. The water
and dry land habitats. Man-made heronries were
in the 7.5km of Century City's canals is pumped
also constructed on Intaka to attract birds for
into the reconstructed wetland and by gravity,
breeding and roosting. These heronries have been
makes its way through the different ponds of the
recognised internationally for both their simple
wetland before re-entering the waterways. In each
construction and success at attracting birds.
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The education centre Intaka Island has enjoyed healthy growth over the years and to facilitate the long-term showcasing of this inspiring solution, as well as adding to the educational and recreational experience of the wetland, the need for a visitors centre was identified. In 2010 construction of the Environmental Education Centre commenced with support from the Century City developer, Rabie Property Group, and surrounding community. This centre is a multi-purpose visitor centre that showcases the environment, sustainable living and green technologies. The building design necessitated meeting the multifunctional needs of a reception area, office space, ablution, kitchen facilities and abiding by green building standards. The opening of the Eco Centre at the end of 2010 has seen a marked increase in visitors to Intaka, including the number of schools. Close to 25 000 people visited the Island in 2013, with more than 100 schools undergoing the educational programs last year. The educational team strives to give curriculum relevant programs, that are both fun and outside the classroom. This, alongside the showcasing of sustainable living methods, has led to the concept of creating an Energy Classroom. This classroom was designed with this theme in mind and is envisioned to be kitted out in interactive displays pertaining to sustainable energy to give learners a hands-on feel on the elusive concept of energy. The unique building comprising of polystyrene bricks, green walls and solar energy was completed late 2013 and the vision this year is to source both funding and state-of-the-art educational exhibits to complete the experience at the Eco Centre. Intaka has not been without its challenges, ranging from balancing predator-prey relationships within an enclosed wetland system, to a number of invasive water plants. But all-in-all, every day Intaka gains new followers and becomes a place of escape for the local businessman or a place of adventure for the young biologist and is home to many more than just the birds and the fish in the ponds.
SG
Visit www.intaka.co.za
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Intaka supports some 120 species of regular and annual occurring birds. The main factors that enable Intaka to be so rich in bird species are its seven different primary habitats that have been created.
Intaka hasn't been without challenges – for instance, balancing predator-prey relationships within an enclosed wetland system 73 S G
Community
Be In 'My Name is Justin Friedman and I am for the love of water – based on the fact that we are made up of over 70% water. What I am really saying is that I am for the love of you, me and this planet. What a powerful idea. If we had to integrate this into our day-to-day lives how much care, respect and love there would be for each other and the environment? Isn't this the collective shift we would like to see for ourselves and other species?'
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F
flowforms, along with branching flow
LOW is indeed about just such a
patterns that water takes, is actually
collective shift. It was designed
the lowest energy pathway or the
as an open source concept to
provide a platform to unify different
path of least resistance. Are you
sectors of society around water
going with the flow in your life? Are
– including government, local
you following the synchronicities
provincial and national, media and
and being attuned to the path of
civil society, in a decentralised
least resistance? What's fascinating
approach, using nature as our
is to explore this in your own life. If
model, measure and mentor.
you listen you can feel when there are barriers to flow and how to be
If we unify around our love for
water,
this
serves
as
more attuned to the flow and find
a
your way.
stepping-stone to live a more heart-based way of living. Water is
What does it mean, to be in flow
the ultimate leveler and reminds
in your life? Are you spinning in a
us how vulnerable we are. FLOW
vortex? Are you stuck in an eddy?
also seeks to bring awareness to
Are you piled up with debris? Are
the systemic nature of water and
you rushing along in a smooth
how it connects all segments of
current? As soon as you can release
life including our modern day
the need for control and trust in the
development,
whole perhaps then we are in flow?
manufacturing,
health, sanitation and agriculture.
Bruce Lee said: 'Be like water
FLOW is not just an opportunity
making its way through cracks. Do
to unify around our love for water.
not be assertive, but adjust to the
We can also take it one level
object, and you shall find a way
deeper to see what we can learn
around or through it. If nothing
from water specifically in terms
within you stays rigid, outward
of its qualities. For example how
things will disclose themselves.
does water actually FLOW?
Empty your mind, be formless. Shapeless, like water. If you put
Vortex flowform
water into a cup, it becomes the
Water moves in a natural vortex
cup. You put water into a bottle and
flowform and so does the blood
it becomes the bottle. You put it
in our bodies as it moves to and
in a teapot, it becomes the teapot.
from our heart and around our
Now, water can flow or it can crash.
bodies. If you look at the patterns that our blood
Be water, my friend.'
makes moving into and out of our hearts – it's very
And so recognising that our natural state is FLOW
similar to the patterns you find in the flow of water in
requires a deep trust and alignment – and a realisation
natural water courses. The movement or flow of water
that we are indeed a part of nature, in resonance with
and the flow of blood in our hearts is in resonance
nature. The flow of water on earth and in our blood is
through these forms. So we may deduce that our heart,
reflected in unity by the patterns of flow of the large
where our love is centred, is in resonance with the flow
and small in our universe. Most of all it is reflected in
of water in our earth.
the flow through our hearts – reminding us all that in
We are, then, quite effortlessly at one and in love with water. This same pattern is revealed in the spiral galaxies and the movement patterns of electrons that make up the atoms of our being.
love, we are very much in unity and in the harmonious flow of life. I invite you to share your story of FLOW in your life using the #forloveofwater handle.
The flow of water reveals more about flow in our lives too. Constructal theory shows that the vortex
For more info visit forloveofwater.co.za
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N ews WATCH THIS! The Journey Of Water
Know your footprint Do you know where your water comes from? Visit www.journeyofwater. co.za to find out where your water comes from wherever you are in SA. This site will also provide you with information on the threats facing your water source and what you can do to save water at home.
Top 10 Water Tips 1 Be aware of your direct water footprint. Conduct a water audit at home, determine your monthly water use from your municipal bill and set goals to become more water-efficient. Monitor your use and keep track of your progress. 2 Fix leaks at home and report public water leaks to your local
municipality. An estimated 37% of water is lost from leaks in urban supply systems and, last year alone, water leaks costs SA about R7.2bn. 3 Make your garden water-wise by planting indigenous, drought-resistant plants which require minimal watering. Additionally, only water your garden very early in the morning or after sunset to reduce unnecessary evaporation. 4 Channel rain water from gutters into your garden and swimming pool and invest in a rain water tank. Using rain water minimises the losses from piped systems and this is untreated so has a lower carbon-footprint. 5 Install a grey-water system and recycle water at home. Generally, 40-60% of household water is used for non-essential purposes, such as watering gardens and filling swimming pools. 6 Ditch the bottled water. It takes 3l of tap water to make 1l of bottled water. Overall, SA has world-class quality drinking water so only drink bottled water if you are travelling or unsure about the quality of water in your area. For more info on the quality of water in your town, visit www.dwa.gov.za/bluedrop 7 Do not pour toxic paint, solvents, chemicals, poisons or pesticides into stormwater, sewer drains or normal rubbish. Find out where your nearest hazardous waste site is and dispose of polluting substances responsibly. 8 Identify and remove invasive alien vegetation from your garden and local wetland. Protect and keep your local freshwater ecosystems pollution-free. If you see someone polluting water call the Blue Scorpions. 9 Be water-wise and purchase water-efficient devices and water-saving appliances. Use the economy cycle on your dishwasher and washing machine to save water and energy. 10 Cut down your food waste. We consume most water we use, indirectly, through the food we eat and things we buy. For instance: to produce one kilogram of beef requires 50 000-100 000l of water. A glass of beer requires 170l water to be produced, a litre of milk 1 000l and a pair of jeans 11 000l.
www.waterfootprint.org/yourwaterfootprint See pages 56 and 100 for more on water-saving tips and other efforts to secure SA's water future.
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The Looper The Looper challenges the idea of a greenhouse and leverages one very simple concept: the growing of plants inherently cleans an ecosystem. The Looper repurposes an existing river barge into a greenhouse which collects, uses, filters, and returns water to the river in a remediated state – a loop. The 'building' was designed in accordance with the Living Building Challenge Standards and addresses each principle – site, water, energy, health, materials, equity and beauty – to create a zero-impact design. At the heart of the vessel is a 'living machine' that distributes filtered river water to an aquaponics system growing both plants and fish. As the greenhouse barge moves along the river, it is able to restore water and habitat, serve multiple communities with access to fresh produce and act as a floating classroom for an ecologically abundant future. Click here for more info.
What is Earth Hour? Earth Hour, a World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) initiative, started in Sydney, Australia, in 2007 when 2.2 million households turned off their lights for one hour to make a stand against climate change. Today, Earth Hour is so much more than simply switching off lights for an hour once a year. It’s a growing international movement of citizen-driven action for the environment.
When is Earth Hour? This year’s campaign culminates on Saturday, 29 March 2014 at 8.30pm when South Africa joins others around the world – individuals and organisations – in turning off the lights for an hour as an act of symbolic unity. It is a time to reflect on, renew and celebrate your commitments to protecting our planet beyond the hour.
What is this year’s Earth Hour campaign about? Centred on a powerful call to action – ‘How do you honour the Earth?’ – WWFSA is asking everyone to make a promise to honour the Earth by thinking about the choices we make around our food, water and energy use, and what our impact is on the environment. We want people to share these promises online (www.wwf.org.za). Each time someone makes a promise, the virtual planet is restored – from degraded to beautiful.
As citizens of the planet, we challenge you to do more than just switch off your lights for Earth Hour between 8.30pm and 9.30pm on 29 March 2014. What are you prepared to do, as an individual or group, to contribute to a harmonious co-existence with nature?
Show your commitment to the planet by visiting www.wwf.org.za
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World Water Week 2014
2014/01/24 10:45 AM
World Water Week (WWW) takes place in Stockholm, 31 August-5 September and is hosted and organised by the Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI). World Water Week has been the annual focal point for the globe's water issues since '91. Every year, SIWI provides a platform for over 200 collaborating organisations to convene events at the event. In addition, individuals from around the globe present their findings at the scientific workshops. www.worldwaterweek.org and www.siwi.org Download the Overarching Conclusions of the World Water Week 2013, here.
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Cry. Forgive. Learn. Move on. Let your tears water the seeds of your future happiness.
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Steve Maraboli
Anders Berntell, Director, Stockholm International Water Institute, Sweden 77 S G
N ews Aquascapes These dreamlike underwater landscapes were created by experts in the art of aquascaping. It requires knowledge of marine biology and a knack for design and art. It can take months to complete a single piece, although some of these look like ancient landscapes that have been growing underwater for centuries. Hundreds of aquascaping experts from around the world submit their designs to the annual International Aquatic Plants Layout Contest (IAPLC), which awards the most inventive landscaping projects. Top slots are usually dominated by Asian and Eastern European countries. Visit their site for more info on how to enter.
Freshwater reserves discovered under the ocean Scientists discovered vast aquifers of fresh water underneath the sea. A study published in the December edition of the journal Nature reveals the existence of nearly 120 000 cubic miles of low-salinity water beneath SA, North America, Australia, and China. This figure amounts to a volume 100 times greater than all of the fresh water used since the beginning of the 20th century. According to the UN, half of the globe will be struggling to find clean, fresh sources of water by 2030. As countries begin to ramp up their efforts to build desalination plants, the discovery of fresh water below the sea may help ease the pressure on exploding populations. The water became trapped in its present location hundreds of thousands of years ago back when oceans were not nearly as deep. Scientists hypothesise that rainwater could have seeped through the ground and deposited itself into aquifers. When the polar ice caps began to melt around 20 000 years ago, the level of the sea rose and layers of either clay or sediment protected the reservoirs from salty contamination. Accessing the water may prove difficult, however. Drilling comes with a whole host of enviro-concerns including ecosystem damage and salt intrusion. The reserves would also need to be used sparingly, because once they are tapped they will not be replenished until sea levels drop once more.
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Adv e r t or i a l
POCKET RECYCLING ASSISTANT The local plastic recycling rate of 19.6% is set to increase with the help of SA’s first recycling centre locator app for smartphones from Tuffy brands.
'M
any South African’s don’t take the time to recycle mainly
He explains: 'The more people recycle, the more consistent
because they just don’t know where to take their rubbish,'
the supply of materials will be, which allows companies
says Rory Murray, Marketing Director, Tuffy Brands.
like Tuffy to produce product from 100% recycled material,
'This is especially true for those people who live in areas where
providing major benefits to the industry with more product to
door-to-door collections are non-existent.'
recycle. But most importantly, environmentally, recycling is the
With the help of the new app, people will be able to easily locate the recycling centre closest to them out of the 215
right thing to do and simple to execute when people are given the right tools.
centres listed. 'We are hoping that by having this app freely
'There is a huge demand for good quality waste, which
available at the push of a button, more South Africans will
currently exceeds supply, which is why we believe that by
begin to contribute to recycling which is important because
providing tools to consumers to assist will go a long way in
it is better for the environment, better for our economy and
elevating the recycling rate and ensuring we continue to see
better for job creation,' says Murray. 'Getting more consumers
growth of the 20.7% of plastic waste diverted from landfill
to recycling centres will also help elevate our plastic recycling
sites,' he adds.
levels and the overall recycling of glass, paper and metal waste.' According to the latest plastic recycling survey by SAPRO,
It also helps to create jobs. 'The plastics industry has a combined turnover of approximately R50b and employs over 60 000 formal and informal workers,' he says.
while there has been an increase in the amount of plastic
Murray says that the main feature on the app is the GPS
tonnage recycled at 9.3% from the previous year, the plastics
recycling centre locator, which includes integration of Google
industry is aiming for a 40% recycling rate, 5% more than the
maps to navigate consumers to the site and each location listed
current global maximum recycling rate.
provides the user with a list of what they recycle as well as
Murray says that consumers can play a huge role in helping
their contact details. 'You can search by region, and in the near
to reach this target. 'To put it in perspective, the latest plastic
future we will include integration to social channels, so people
recycling report, stated that if one million families each add
can share their recycling activities with their friends.'
a 1l yoghurt tub every second week to their recyclable waste, the plastics packaging in the waste stream will start decreasing significantly.'
The Tuffy Recycling app is free and available on iTunes, Google Play and Android stores. For more info click here.
Tuffy is the only South African refuse bag manufacturer to be fully certified 100% recycled.
For more info visit www.tuffy.co.za, or join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter
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Event
The source of the Orange River
On 10 December 2013, 33-year-old Capetonian Ray Chaplin became the first person to riverboard the entire 2 400km length of the Orange River, SA's longest river, from source to sea all in the name of raising awareness of SA's water quality and the volume of litter along the river. This is the 2nd longest river-boarding expedition in the world to date and the longest on a production riverboard in Africa. We take a look.
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The first flowing waters of the River
Ray's daily gearing-up ritual
Did you know? Ray progressed 18-20km on a normal day on his board, which weighs 9.5kg His longest day was 29km and the shortest day was 5km due to cold weather His average daily diet consisted of 100g oats for breakfast, 2 snack bars or 100g of peanuts and raisins during the day, 165g of pasta with 75g soya mince for dinner, and a powdered drink 'I weighed 100kg when I left Johannesburg to start, and weighed 84kg when I arrived home after finishing,' says Ray.
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lastics|SA Sustainability Council met at the
Representing the various sectors of the plastics
Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town in
industry, Plastics|SA plays an active role in the
February 2014. The main sponsors of the
growth and development of the SA plastics industry.
Plastics|SA and Nampak Rigid Plastics Orange River
They provide training and expertise to the industry,
Project, Anton Hanekom of Plastics|SA and Johan
and look after the image of plastic in SA, specifically
de Smidt of Nampak Rigid Plastics, congratulated
driving the industry's enviro-initiatives. Nampak
Ray on his tremendous feat and spoke of how they
Rigid Plastics is one of the largest converters of
got involved with and supported this record-setting
plastic in SA.
achievement.
Plastics|SA runs several campaigns, competitions
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Ray cooking breakfast before setting off
A trace of man's presence
A reminder of the frailty of life
and clean-ups every year to promote the responsible disposal, collection and recycling of plastic. In 2013 their theme was 'Plastics: An Adventure – let's explore'. They were looking for a suitable adventure to align to the 2013 campaign when Ray's proposal
Plastics|SA runs several campaigns, competitions and clean-ups every year to promote the responsible disposal, collection and recycling of plastic.
arrived. Ray wanted to riverboard the length of the Orange River, alone, becoming the first man in SA to do so. techno-geek with all the portable communications gadgets
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encountered large volumes of litter almost from the
Being passionate about the environment and a necessary
to
correspond
while
source of the river.
Ray also undertook to do school talks, community
on
clean-ups and generate as much exposure as possible
expedition, Ray proposed that he would post regular
in each town as he progressed. He presented to over
updates on social media of what he observed in
9 500 students along the river with over 5 500 bags
the river as he progressed. The idea was to draw
of litter being collected through clean-ups, and with
attention to and awareness of pollution in the river
many more follow-up clean-up days already being
and the need to reduce it.
co-ordinated by schools and communities.
Plastics|SA approached Nampak Rigid Plastics
'Right from the start I wanted to use my
to co-sponsor the attempt and on Tuesday 9
knowledge and background to try to share how
April 2013, high in the mountains of Lesotho, Ray
important the sustainability of life and of the
began his riverboarding attempt and, unfortunately,
environment are, but especially with the younger
Teaching local school kids about recycling
A sad state of affairs
Ray celebrates the completion of the project
generation. I want to let them know that a sustainable
having not only successfully completed 2 460km of
future is possible, and that they have a huge part to
riverboarding but also 21 school presentations, two
play in it. I want to try and educate actively, through
community meetings, one recycling indaba, one
experience. Kids are tired of classroom teaching,
International Marine Debris Summit, two expos and
they want to see someone go out and do what they
11 radio interviews to spread the word that plastics
teach,' says this eco-adventurer.
are too good to throw away. Ray promoted the
Ray riverboarded the Orange River alone, with
collection of all litter in SA's rivers and in particular
no back-up crew or support vehicles. He carried his
plastic packaging such as HDPE bottles, PET bottles,
own tent, kit and food with him, weighing around
HDPE closures (bottle tops), crates and drums that
35kg. When asked about the amount of days he
can be recycled.
spent in the water, he replied that he was trying to
Consumers who purchase products in plastic
not think about it. In the event, Ray spent 57 days
packaging decide how to dispose of it later. Through
out of the water after one too many falls resulted
these efforts the champions of recycling are hoping
in two broken ribs and severe spinal injury, making
that consumers will think twice about throwing
it too painful and risky for him to continue. 'I got
away those plastic bottles as recycling not only
out the water on Tuesday 25 June, and got back in
preserves SA's beautiful waterways but it will provide
on Wednesday 21 August, even though the doctor
much-needed recyclable plastic for the packaging
suggested six to nine months off,' explains Ray.
industry.
SG
At 246 days after departing from the source, Ray arrived in Alexander Bay on the Atlantic coast
Visit his Facebook page for more.
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R eport B ack
It was good to see first-hand the importance of these projects, and the importance of waste management and recycling.
white wate 'As you head down a rapid, bouncing around and
trying to manoeuvre yourself so that you don't go
being offered the opportunity to head down the Orange River for a couple
headfirst into the rocks, gripping the handles of
of days with some of the people who
the river-board so tight that you are unable to feel
project such as this possible. When I
your fingers any more, you can only imagine what
have made an incredible eye-opening heard about this initiative, there was no doubt that the importance of what Ray,
Ray Chaplin has gone through since he started his
Nampak and Plastics|SA were doing was
journey down the full length of the Orange River,
our country's waste management – and
source to sea, in April last year.' Simply Green staffer Kyle Villet reports on a recent recycling/ adventure trip that brought together some of SA's
extremely important in the effort to get especially that of plastics – right. As we travelled to Khamkirri Lodge, we saw a variety of developments taking place such as schools and hospitals being refurbished, and in particular,
most stunning natural splendours with the need
solar farms being erected. It was good
to remove waste, plastics in particular, from our
projects, and the importance of waste
precious riverine systems.
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I
t was such an amazing experience
to see first-hand the importance of these management and recycling. The amount of litter and waste lying around was
sustainability and growth, the importance of creating
astonishing. Khamkirri is something of a little-known gem. Hills surround the farm, where you will find horses, geese
awareness and support, all were common factors with everybody there.
and ducks. This is definitely a place I could kick back
When we took a relaxed paddle down the river
in, I decided within moments of arriving. As we were
one morning, with the sun starting to peak and light
shown to our tents, the excitement for what is about to
shimmering across the water, the fish were jumping,
come built upon itself. We headed down to the boma
and buffalo on their stroll, one had a deep sense
where Gawie Nieuwoudt, the property's owner, and his
of appreciation of what nature has to offer, and the
staff had amazing meals set out for us to enjoy while
beauty that surrounds us when we take time to look.
staying there.
That couple of hours on the river will stay with me for
Straight after lunch we all decided it was time to go
a long time to come.
and see what the river had to offer. We headed upriver
When we took off back to Cape Town, I had a
for about 20 minutes and unloaded the equipment.
deep sense of satisfaction, despite our short time
Wetsuits and boardies on, life jackets and helmets, two
on the water, but with a fantastic memory of a good
per kayak, and off we went. The water was amazing –
time with friends. And an even deeper sense of the
crystal clear, flowing perfectly and just waiting for us
urgency which lay behind Ray's inspiration to bring to
to have a great time.
awareness the need for our waterways, few as they are
One really got to see what a great group of
in SA, to be cleaned, protected and maintained so that
people were involved in this trip. The passion for
we have a natural environment – and unpolluted water
both products and the project itself, the love for
– to enjoy in the future.
SG
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CSP i
South Africa's draft Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) revision (update report 2013) is out for review. A significant development is the proposed increase in Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) capacity from the initial 1200mW to 3300mW. CSP industry players are advocating increased CSP megawatt allocation to achieve economies of scale, and it is expected that the possible increase in CSP will be a welcome development. Annabel Eaton of CSP Today reports.
in SA
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D
ue to changes in consumption patterns and technology costs, it is essential that the IRP is adaptable and is updated regularly.
Paul Gauché, Sasol Senior Researcher & Director, Solar Thermal Energy Research Group (STERG) at Stellenbosch University, supports the proposed increase. In an interview with CSP Today he outlines what he believes are the reasons behind the proposed base case increase. 'The IRP allocation is based on systems modelling where optimisation is done on the system based on prescribed constraints. The base case seems to account for a number of learnings in the last few years where among others, SA has realised the role CSP can play in resolving the evening peak.'
Two projects have been allocated in the third bidding round of SA's Renewable Energy Independent Power Producer Procurement Programme (REIPPPP) for this purpose, and a very favourable evening peak tariff ceiling was introduced. 'The base case also updates a number of assumptions on cost and risk. The assumptions on lead times and cost of nuclear as well as the cost vulnerability of coal and gas have caused those to drop, and CSP is likely the beneficiary of
localisation, industrialisation and job creation
this situation due to the technology's ability to be
of Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) infrastructure
flexible,' comments Gauche.
projects in South Africa – a 2030 vision for CSP',
The draft IRP refers to there being a wide
The study was undertaken by Enolcon and EY on
the different scenarios with a range of options
behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry, the
clustering around 8 000MW capacity in 2050. When
German Development Corporation and the Southern
asked what he thinks should happen going forward,
Africa Solar Thermal and Electricity Association
Gauche comments:
(Sastela).
'We would like to know more about the scenario
The advantages of an increase CSP capacity and
modelling and believe that improved assumptions
the roll-out of further CSP plants in SA would include:
on cost and behaviour of CSP are needed in the
cost reduction potential;
models. Our own analysis using detailed solar and
enhanced socio-economic benefits;
weather data shows that both wind and PV have
development of local production.
virtually no firm capacity even together.' Gauché continues: 'We have completed a study
Cost reduction potential:
showing that 3.3gW can be deployed now to drop
'Assessment of the localisation, industrialisation
the cost of electricity for the evening peak. If we
and job creation of CSP infrastructure projects in SA
implemented this, we could help drive the learning
– a 2030 vision for CSP' states: 'Given the relatively
rate.'
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which was launched last month.
range of outcomes for CSP development under
early stage of CSP compared to other renewable energy technologies (such as PV or wind), CSP's
In-depth CSP study launched
cost reduction potential remains significant. It is
Also advocating increased CSP allocation are the
estimated that in the region of 28%-40% of overall
findings of an in-depth study, 'Assesment of the
CSP investment costs could be reduced by 2030.'
'The only way to get the cost of CSP down in South Africa will be to significantly increase the CSP allocation in the REIPPPP and thereby facilitate at least some convergence to only one or two CSP technology suppliers. We trust that an additional allocation will be forthcoming for round four. In future we need 10 to 20 CSP projects and an allocation of 1gW or more.' Professor Wikus van Niekerk The study adds that the level of cost reduction
underpinning it. The current CSP MW allocation
would be due largely to economies of scale as a
is considered as being too low to allow for the
result of increased plant capacities.
Enhanced socio-economic benefits
development of manufacturing plants to supply CSP components.'
With increased CSP megawatt allocation and a
Additional allocation for round four?
committed pipeline of projects 'CSP can add valuable
Succinctly summing up the CSP scenario in SA
economic benefits through the creation of new
is Professor Wikus van Niekerk, Director of the
jobs, GDP growth, international trade and energy
Centre for Renewable & Sustainable Energy Studies
security'.
at Stellenbosch University, who along with other
Speaking at the launch, Sastela chairperson,
academics and industry players believes the CSP
Ayanda Nakedi, commented further on the topical
allocation in round three of only 200mW was too
issue in SA of energy security and grid stability:
small.
'South Africa's electricity supply is getting more and
'The only way to get the cost of CSP down in
more constrained and the unique storage benefit of
South Africa will be to significantly increase the
CSP could assist with this. This is currently the only
CSP allocation in the REIPPPP and thereby facilitate
technology that offers the storage option South
at least some convergence to only one or two CSP
Africa needs.'
technology suppliers. We trust that an additional
Development of local production According to the study: 'Developing a local CSP
allocation will be forthcoming for round four. In future we need 10 to 20 CSP projects and an allocation of 1gW or more.'
manufacturing capacity will require a stable policy framework and a significant CSP market size
For more info visit http://social.csptoday.com
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news
revolutionising solar energy During a winter hiking trip, 13-year-old Aidan Dwyer noticed something unique about tree branches – he discovered a spiral mathematical formula in trees based on the Fibonacci sequence. When he recognised this design in the placement of tree branches, he began applying this pattern to solar panel designs. He found that this discovery could maximise solar panel sunlight collection in new, efficient ways. Logging data on voltage and current, Aidan ran tests on the spiral design and on a flat panel design for several design was much more efficient than flat panel designs.
a cleaner Japan
The spiral patterns collect, on average, 20% more open
On November 4, 2013, the Kyocera Corporation
current voltage and absorbs just over two more hours
officially launched Japan’s largest offshore solar
of sunlight per day. Even more exciting were his results
power plant, the 70MW Kagoshima Nanatsujima
during the winter solstice when the sun is at its lowest
Mega Solar Power Plant.
months. He found out that the Fibonacci solar panel
point in the sky. During this time, the Fibonacci design collected 50% more sunlight than flat panel designs.
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Located
in
the
Kagoshima
Prefecture,
Kyocera partnered with six other companies to
'My results suggest that the Fibonacci pattern can
develop the solar plant with the hope that this
improve solar panel arrays in several ways. It collects
latest offshore venture will set a precedent for
more sunlight when the sun is at a low angle in the
a cleaner Japan, especially in light of the 2011
sky. This is useful during winter months and in extreme
Fukushima disaster. The solar plant is designed
latitudes,' Aidan explained.
to inspire and encourage Japan to make the
Other benefits of the spiral design, he says, are that
switch to more renewable energy sources. The
it will take up less room in urban areas, and would not
plant will not only provide clean energy but
collect as much rain and snow as well as being more
also generate greater awareness of renewable
weather-resistant than rooftop flat panel designs.
energy’s numerous benefits.
rawlemon Over the last few years, Rawlemon has been impressing people with their innovative concepts for concentrated solar power (CSP) generation. First it was the Barcelona-based startup company's spherical solar energy-concentrating globe. Like a giant crystal ball, the prototype was capable of concentrating sunlight up to 10 000 times – making it significantly more efficient than traditional photovoltaic (PV) designs. Then, in 2013, they released a new and improved prototype called the Betaray (pictured left, below) that harnesses solar energy from all sources, even the moon and on cloudy days. Encouraged by the positive reaction to the design, Rawlemon launched a crowdfunding campaign on Indiegogo that will allow the start-up to move from research to development. Those who contribute have a chance to get their hands on the company’s 1/500th scale version of the Betaray, called the Beta.ey (pictured left, above), that can be used to charge your phone. Like the full scale version, the Beta.ey concentrates light onto a multi-junction cell that 'is mounted on our patent pending micro dual axis tracking system. This feature allows the cell to follow the sun’s path for the 27.5Whr battery to charge, making us unique in the mobile device accessory market,' say the designers. For more info click here
Israel plans massive solar power station Being blessed with abundant sunshine, Israel has long been a pioneer in solar energy, and with construction starting this year on the 121mW solar power station, it will aim to produce 10% of its energy from renewable sources by 2020. The Ashalim power plant will be located in the Negev Desert near Kibbutz Ashalim south of the city of Be’er Sheva, and when it’s completed in 2016 it will be the biggest solar power station in Israel with enough capacity to power 40 000 homes. The new solar station is being developed by Megalim Solar Power – a joint venture between US-based solar power company Brightsource Energy and French power and transport company Alstom. The BrightSource-Alstom Megalim plant is one of three projects at the Ashalim site which will generate 250MW of electricity at full capacity – that’s enough to cover 2.5% of Israelis' energy consumption.
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news
the lighthouse future In an unexpected turn of events, it seems lighthouses are leading the way to more powerful solar panels in outer space and here on earth. Key to this discovery is the Fresnel lenses that enabled lighthouses of old to focus a beam of light over vast distances. Nowadays, they are being used by NASA engineers to improve space-borne solar power, and just
recently, scientists created a miniature PV system called the SolarVolt that can concentrate the sun’s rays 20 times. Entech Solar and NASA‘s Glenn Research Center co-developed the SolarVolt system, which uses tiny Fresnel lenses that allow the 'multi-junction' solar panel array to absorb concentrated light energy on a much smaller cell area while producing the same amount of electricity as a larger cell area under un-enhanced light. This technology could greatly enhance the efficiency of the world’s largest solar plants.
Ivanpah turns on The Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System uses proven solar thermal technology and a low enviro-impact design to power California’s clean energy economy with cost-competitive and reliable solar power, and, just recently, officially started generating energy for the state's electric grid. Located just southwest of Las Vegas, the massive solar facility can produce a whopping 392MW of solar energy to power 140 000 California homes with clean energy – the equivalent of removing 400 000 metric tons of CO2 from the air every year. Despite these impressive numbers, however, Ivanpah has been mired in controversy for its high operating costs and for reportedly killing and scorching alarming numbers of the local wildlife. Stretching across five square miles in the Mojave desert, the massive solar project consists of three 40-storey tall towers surrounded by 350 000 garage-door-sized mirrors. Each reflective heliostat focuses solar energy onto the boilers atop the towers to create steam to power turbines. The Ivanpah plant, however, has come under fire from various critics. According to the Wall Street Journal, the clean energy generated by Ivanpah will cost about four times as much as the electricity generated by conventional natural gas-fired plants. Ivanpah will also produce less electricity than conventional sources and require more land to operate. Animal activists have also been alarmed by the number of birds that have been scorched and killed around the solar plant towers, which can generate temperatures as high as 500°C.
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lighting the way Whether for a private home, a commercial business or a wine farm, you can draw smart energy from the sun for less.
Tel: +27 (0) 21 852 7333 Email: r.jacklin@soventix.com www.soventix.co.za
Soventix SA (Pty) Ltd, a subsidiary of Soventix GmbH in Germany is involved with the development and realisation of roof top and carport solar photovoltaic plants from residential to agricultural as well as large scale solar farms. Whether you finance the solar plant yourself or sign a power purchase agreement, Soventix will ensure you’re protected from the rising costs of energy for the next 30 to 40 years. Not only will you be saving on your energy bills, but you’ll also be contributing to a more sustainable environment. Renewable energy is the future and is more affordable than energy from non-renewable sources. becoming mo 93 S G
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news
German performance Despite Germany's long and dark winter, solar panels keep lining German residential rooftops, and, according to SMA Solar Technology, the country has just set another world record in solar energy production. SMA’s interactive PV performance monitoring tool (pictured) shows that Germany’s PV electricity production hit a record 23.4gW on June 6, 2013, and with a full 0.5gW increase, peaked at 23.9gW. The massive solar electricity output is attributed to about one million solar power systems installed across the country, with over eight million people living in buildings which incorporate solar systems to produce electricity.
enviro-friendly solar cells One of the downsides to solar technologies is
the
use
of
not-so-enviro-friendly
materials that are used to make them (rare earth metals being chief among them), but researchers from University of Maryland, the South China University of Technology and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln have developed a new type of paper made from wood fibres that is 96% transparent and could ultimately replace the plastic substrates that solar cells are made on.
Swiss designer Fabienne Felder
This would not only make solar cells more
has worked with University of
enviro-friendly, but they'd be cheaper to
Cambridge scientists Paolo
make and possibly perform better.
Bombelli and Ross Dennis to
As the researchers explain, the reason
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moss FM
develop a way of using plants as
for the paper's ultra transparency is that
'biological solar panels'. The team
it is nanoporous rather than microporous
has prototyped the world's first
like traditional paper – the difference being
moss-powered radio to illustrate
less cavities in the material that scatter
the potential of its Photo
light. The team was able to create this
Microbial Fuel Cells (Photo-MFCs).
special paper by treating wood fibres with
Moss was chosen because its
a process called TEMPO that causes the
photosynthetic process makes
fibres to swell and collapse into tightly
the plants particularly efficient
packed structures. The team tested the
at generating electricity. The
paper by coating it onto a silicon slab.
radio is the first time Photo-MFCs
Experiments showed that the paper coated
have been used to run an object
solar cell could collect light with 10%
demanding more power than a
more efficiency. The laminating technique
LCD screen. 'We may assume that
could be used on existing solar cells and
in five years the technology will
could be used to up the efficiency of solar
be applicable in a commercially
panels, windows and roofs.
viable form,' they said.
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green africa initiatives
With a passion for the planet and the people of Africa, Green Africa Initiatives together with World Panel is forging ahead with their combined vision for powering the exploding mobile communications wave sweeping the African continent. They believe that by distributing World Panel products to provide communities with mobile electricity, they can improve the lives of millions of people across Africa. Green Africa Initiatives is focused on sustainable energy solutions based on photovoltaic technology for the African continent. Designed and tested in the Sub-Saharan communities of Africa, World Panel's range of innovative solar panels can charge virtually any phone, tablet or other electronic device that uses a standard USB cable as quickly as plugging it into the wall socket. www.greenafricainitiatives.co.za
EnerGcare For many South Africans, 2014 is the year for celebrating innovative design. It therefore seems like no co-incidence that Cape Town-based EnerGcare is harnessing some of the world’s greatest designs to address the problem of energy poverty. This includes the Little Sun, a solar-powered LED lamp designed by artist Olafur Eliasson; and the Philips clean burning efficient wood stove. EneGcare is the official product brand of Restio Energy. Vvisit www.energcare.co.za or www.restio.co.za for more info. Email info@energcare.co.za and Tel 021 850 0771 for correspondence.
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off the
P ress
SHACURITY At the recent WWF Renewable Energy Festival in Cape Town, i Power SA launched a solar powered shack fire prevention kit that is triggered either by a panic button or an optical smoke detector. The Shacurity kit is a professionally designed solar lighting system that incorporates specially designed low-power consumption electronic circuitry enabling the smoke detector and alarm. Having been aware that solar lighting is a viable alternative to candles, which are so often the cause of fires, and being passionate about sustainable community upliftment solutions, the Shacurity kit was designed to be expandable, maintainable and easily installed. www.ipowersa.co.za
ECOBOXX
Powered by unique lead crystal battery technology, EcoBoxx is highly durable with double the lifespan of conventional alternatives. With benefits spanning lifestyle, recreational, business and industrial, EcoBoxx is poised to answer Africa’s pressing energy problems and provide much needed social empowerment on the continent.
WAKA WAKA
This could be the world’s most efficient portable solar powered lamp and (phone) charger. High-tech, low-cost solutions for those without electricity in both the developing world and the West. For more info on these products visit www.switch2psp.com
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The Tshisa Box This low-cost alternative to conventional solar water heaters requires no domestic running water system and can be used if you live in the suburbs, in an RDP house or a rural traditional house. It can heat 10l of water once a day – reaching its highest temperatures at about 4pm (cloudless days only). On a good day, it can take up to five hours to get warm. Visit www.tshisasolar.co.za page to see test results, user's views and information from the suppliers.
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O pinion
Sustain ability
?
Will we wait until the tipping point
While South Africa cries out for sustainability, Australia unites for defunct carbon commission. Eminè Mehmet, a Fellow of the Design Institute of Australia, reports.
R
ecently, I travelled to the UK and SA to
a home, food and education, to have opportunities
promote The Big Shift Sustainable Design
and a future. We are all patriots and love our
Competition. On this trip, I met with
country. We look to our government for leadership,
and
courage and vision and to create and influence
sponsors to lay foundations for the competition.
positive change for generations to come, not just
Along the way, I developed new understandings on
for their time in office.
exhibitors,
design
industry
associations
the world, people and sustainability.
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I believe that it is within our power as people
I found that, fundamentally, we are all the same.
to develop sustainability internationally. This is the
We all want the same things: to feel secure, to have
vision I have for my work; to promote the use of
Imagine not having to think about whether something is sustainable or not. Imagine everything from a toothbrush to your lounge had to come with information about its sustainability. Where it came from, how it was made, what it was made of, who made it and what to do with it when its life is over. Wouldn't that make things so much easier?
household items, food and general goods, building materials, alternative power – to attempt to live more sustainably. Beyond governments and advocates, designers have the power to influence consumer behaviour. Sustainability won't work unless it is practiced by everyone, not just corporates and industry. We need to talk about it on a level everyone can understand. Sustainability isn't hard to interact with, and maintaining the environment should be desirable, even sexy. Aspects like sustainable furniture and homewares can be incredibly beautiful. If they were given more air time, this would be a reality for everyone. It should be easy too.
sustainably-made materials, ideas and ways of living
Imagine not having to think about whether
by making it more accessible, more desirable and
something is sustainable or not. Imagine everything
more understood.
from a toothbrush to your lounge had to come with
I met a young woman from Zimbabwe who
information about its sustainability. Where it came
moved to SA to find work and support her family;
from, how it was made, what it was made of, who
supporting them not by sending money, but by
made it and what to do with it when its life is over.
sending food. Scarcity of food is not something we
Wouldn't that make things so much easier?
see much of in Australia – it's a far away concept.
In SA, they are crying out for a sustainable solution
But the sustainability of food supplies is a very real
to their electricity supply problems, something we are
world-wide concern not discussed often enough.
lucky enough not to have experienced in Australia.
Food shortages in Zimbabwe and other parts of the
Many South Africans want to be sustainable, to use
world are very real and are happening now.
organic food and low- or non-toxic products, but
To have a future anywhere in the world, we need
these have been priced out of reach of most of the
to embrace sustainability and stop navel gazing at
population. I think it is appalling that a developing
only our personal realities. In Australia, we act like
nation such as South Africa care more about their
we invented sustainability and it would seem we're
sustainable future than we do in Australia.
leading the world. But in other parts of the world, it
It's fair to say that governments are not always
is ingrained in their way of life. Europe in particular
solution providers. They are often corrupt, cash
does it well, where light timers and sensors and
poor and hindered by laws and policies. I believe
water control in public spaces are the norm; the
governments need to engage more heavily with
brown paper bags and 'bring your own shopping bag'
large corporations and industry to make sustainable
concept is widespread. It is easy to be drawn into
solutions accessible and affordable. The people
'the lucky country – young and resource-rich' state of
need to take more responsibility and action when
mind; consideration of the future wasn't always our
it comes to creating a sustainable future, as in the
first priority. Lack of public ownership of sustainable
recent crowd sourcing to keep the Climate Change
issues and reliance on our government to fix things
Commission in Australia running demonstrates.
are a clear demonstration of how disjointed the
Sustainability is about community and collaboration;
Australian public are from the issue of sustainability.
this means we all share and contribute.
Likewise, in the UK the sustainable movement
I'm proud to be the founder of The Big Shift
is strong, but there is still a disjoint between
Sustainable Design Competition. My global work
the practice of sustainability by industry and by
and travels have led me to the conclusion that
the public. The message is not filtering down to
the competition is not just a sustainable design
the general population. This is a problem I have
competition, it has proven to be a platform for
observed worldwide: the experts get it, but the
worldwide collaboration and provides people of the
population doesn't have enough access to easy
world an opportunity to be involved in something
information on readily available and desirable
that supports the world moving forwards towards a
resources like furniture, homewares, everyday
sustainable future.
SG
99 S G
S ustainable B usiness
I
n the past, SA has invested heavily in water infrastructure and this is, in part, why the country has enjoyed a false sense of water security. However, the country is fast approaching full
utilisation of available surface water yields, and is fast running out of suitable sites for new dams. In any case, water supply issues cannot be solved merely by building more dams or creating more infrastructure. Instead, our future water security relies heavily on rehabilitating, maintaining and conserving the natural areas which form the critical catchments and 'water factories' for the country. Superimposed onto this, climate change models predict changes to both rainfall and temperature in SA, which will negatively affect water storage. In short, SA needs to think innovatively about new ways of
reducing water demand and making water available, outside of the traditional engineering solutions of infrastructure development, if it wishes to sustain economic growth and maintain healthy freshwater ecosystems.
SA needs to think
innovatively about new ways of reducing water demand and making water available, outside of the traditional engineering solutions of infrastructure development, if it wishes to sustain economic growth and maintain healthy freshwater ecosystems.
Water risk Private sector investment in water security should not be viewed as only a benevolent act, but rather a sound decision to contribute towards risk mitigation. Water scarcity poses serious risk to both individuals and corporates in numerous ways, including supply chain failures, operational crises, increasing costs, brand management as well as broader corporate social responsibility, for corporations, while for individuals water scarcity is literally a matter of life and death, as well as being a key foundation to quality of life.
Nedbank & water In response to the water crisis facing SA, Nedbank water stewardship commitment is both internally and externally focused with concerted efforts to reduce consumption across the group, combined with the support and facilitation of various SA water security projects. Further signifying its commitment to
water stewardship, Nedbank was the first SA bank to become a signatory to the international CEO Water Mandate. From a water access point of view, Nedbank Capital has played a major funding (R2bn) and advisory role in various, high-profile water infrastructure projects in Africa, including the Komati Water Scheme Augmentation Project. The Nedbank Foundation has provided R4.6m in funding for the distribution of hundreds of 90l Hippo Water Rollers to rural communities across the country. These rollers enable residents to collect and easily transport water across all types of terrain. The Foundation also funded the sinking of boreholes for a number of communities. Through its more than 20 year partnership with WWF-SA through the WWF-SA Nedbank Green Trust, Nedbank has provided
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wise
According to WWF-SA, South Africa is a chronically water scarce country with huge economic development pressures and social upliftment challenges. Water availability is one of the most decisive factors that will affect the economic, social and enviro-wellbeing of SA over the next decade, and its supply is already precariously limited. We take a closer look.
about water 101 S G
A Hippo Water Roller in action
nearly R150m for a variety of enviro-projects, many
to make investments back into the catchments
of which are water-focused.
and water provisioning ecosystems that underpin
By way of also addressing its own water demand
our common well-being. Such investments should
and usage levels, Nedbank Group has implemented
also have some relationship to the status of the
several internal initiatives. These include: black
water-user. In other words, it would be appropriate
and grey water treatment systems that recycle
for large water-users to make a proportionally
up to 50% of wastewater, dual-flush toilets, and
greater investment than smaller users.
water-saving devices like hydrotaps and aerators.
The participation in the WWF-SA Water Balance
Water considerations are also a key to its leading
Programme by Nedbank is another way in which the
decisions. The bank also encourages its staff
bank is playing it's part in addressing water quality
members to save water at home. Every employee
and quantity.
received water-saving devices to insert into their
Nedbank decided to make an investment,
toilet cisterns at home - saving up to one litre of
in proportion to its operational water use, into
l of water
the WWF-SA Water Balance Programme. This work
per year. A partnership with Unilever SA saw each
encourages water users to take ownership of
water with every flush and up to 100m
staff member receiving a bottle of Skip liquid
SA's common water challenge by going beyond
detergent with zero phosphates, thereby promoting
reducing their own water demand to also making an
the quality element of Nedbank's water strategy.
investment back into water provisioning ecosystems.
WWF-SA Water Balance
years, links high-level commitments (such as the CEO
This substantial investment, of R9m over five
Programme
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Water Mandate) to tangible on-the-ground outcomes in some of the highest water yield ecosystems in
Fundamentally, as one of the leading conservation
the country. This investment will aid in improving
and natural enviro-protection bodies at work in the
the country's water supply through rehabilitating,
country, the World Wide Fund for Nature, South Africa
maintaining and conserving the natural areas which
(WWF-SA) believes that water-users should be seeking
form the critical catchments and 'water factories'
Quest for water Funded water projects
1.
Green Trust projects Water balance activities
Funded water projects
2.
1. Mokolo Crocodile River Water Augmentation Project: Project Value – R1,8bn
4.
1.
3.
2. Vaal River Eastern Subsystem Project: Project Value – R2,2bn
2.
3. Vaal River Eastern Subsystem Project: Project Value – R2,2bn
SOUTH AFRICA
4. Befesa Water Desalination Project: Project Value – USD126m
3.
Green Trust projects 1. Lakes District Project: Project Value – R2,1bn (over 3 years)
2. Enkangala Project: Project Value – R1bn (over 2 years) 3. DUCT Project: Project Value – R2bn (over 3 years)
for the country. Without investing in the ecosystem,
any additional social benefits that can be achieved
dams and other infrastructure will be rendered
(biomass will be used to create secondary markets
useless - water does not come from dams.
wherever possible, for example). The underlying
In addition to increasing water supply, these investments
into
the
WWF-SA
Water
Balance
Programme will also improve water quality, create jobs and contribute to climate change adaptation and resilience. Only 8% of SA's land area generates more than half of our surface water resources. If we can prioritise water provisioning and compatible land-uses in this 8% we can go a long way to ensuring water security. Several critical water catchments are recognised in SA as the country's 'water factories' based on the high water yield of those catchments. These catchments also supply some of the country's important economic hubs with water. WWF-SA has identified four nodes in which these catchments lie and where the programme will focus its broader water stewardship efforts.
philosophy is based on the realisation that having a focused effort yields greater results where it counts the most for the country.
The prioritised nodes include the following: The Grasslands (Mpumalanga – North Central KZN and Gauteng supply )
Umgeni (KwaZulu Natal – Durban/PMB) Upper reaches of the Berg and Breede Catchments (Western Cape – Cape Town supply) Garden Route, George to Plettenberg Bay (Western Cape) Nedbank's investment is improving catchment health in each of the nodes, however, is primarily invested in the Grasslands and Umgeni nodes.
Proportionate investment
This prioritisation is based on several other factors,
WWF-SA believes that there may be several ways
including high biodiversity benefits; other existing
in which to determine the required proportionate
WWF-SA initiatives which can be leveraged; as well as
investment a water user should make back into the
103 S G
rehabilitation and stewardship of water provisioning ecosystems. However, as a start, WWF-SA has concentrated its efforts on the quantification of water made available through the removal of invasive alien plants. The large amount of data available on the topic through the current and historic experiences of the Working for Water Programme made this an obvious first choice. To facilitate the calculation of the proportionate investments to be made by the water user, WWF-SA has collaborated with scientists to estimate the water used by various invasive alien plant species and the national norms for the costs to clear such species.
There are three principal input values used when determining the Rand value of the proportionate investment: The water-user's operational water use; The national average amount of water 'replenished' through the clearing of a hectare of invasive alien plants and maintaining it in a natural infestation-free state; and The average cost of clearing a hectare of invasive alien plants and maintaining it in an infestation-free state. The Rand value of the proportionate investment is calculated by the water-user's operational water use being divided by the average 'replenishment' through alien clearing, multiplied by the average cost of such clearing. On this basis, Nedbank has made a substantial R9m investment over five years to balance its annual operational water use of 550 000k l.
Work to date Nedbank's investment assisted the establishment of two of the priority nodes – the Umgeni and Garden Route node. In the former, it leveraged a further R1.6m being invested in the area through a partnership with the Critical Ecosystems Partnership Fund, which enabled dedicated capacity to be appointed to secure land into stewardship as well as implement the Water Balance Programme. Starting a node where no former WWF-SA in-field presence has established relationships requires many hours of stakeholder engagement before one can even Clearing alien invasive trees
S G 104
begin implementing the Water Balance Programme . Despite this time taken during initial engagement
begun with one landowner who committed his land into stewardship, and engagements with several other interested landowners are taking place simultaneously. In the more established Grasslands node, Nedbank's investment has already resulted in some 222ha being cleared, preventing approximately 461 000k l of water being lost to
with relevant stakeholders, clearing has already
Through its more than 20 year partnership with WWF-SA through the WWF-SA Nedbank Green Trust, Nedbank has provided nearly R150m for a variety of enviro-projects, many of which are water-focused.
invasive plants and supporting the work of five dedicated farmers. The clearing which was done in the first half of 2013, together with the first year of clearing, has created 3 203 person days of work
exportation, SA's economy is heavily reliant
and has added to secondary economies with 648
on the availability of freshwater. Less water in
tons of charcoal and 345 tons of pulp wood.
a catchment poses serious risk for economic
In the Garden Route (Keurbooms catchment)
development in that catchment, so risk is
a dedicated, conservation-minded landowner has
reduced by investing in these catchments.
completed 10ha of his 30ha target, which he has
When one considers the cost of alternative
done to an excellent standard and has created 354
methods of increasing water supply, such
person days of work.
as the building of dams (increased storage capacity) or desalination plants, investing in
Alien invasive trees & vegetation
maintaining our natural infrastructure – the
The clearing of invasive alien species has been
water provision. Some of the biomass created
identified as one of the most important water
through the clearing process will also create
supply-side interventions we can make at a national
economic benefits through the secondary
environment – is often the cheapest and best long-term solution to ensuring continued
scale (National Water Resource Strategy 2004).
industries established.
Beyond water benefits, invasive alien clearing is a
Invasive alien plant clearing is labour
desirable intervention as it holds much promise in
intensive work, creating many person-days
delivering enviro-, economic and social benefits,
of work, while additional jobs can be created
including:
through the secondary industry dealing with
A positive impact on water quantity
the biomass. Additionally, investing in the
(availability) and quality by contributing to
ecosystems to ensure the continued provision
the healthy functioning of riverine systems;
of water has obvious social benefits from a
reduced risks of wildfires and the severity of
water provision point of view.
both fire and flood events should they occur;
The clearing component of the WWF-SA Water
and providing other biodiversity benefits by
Balance Programme is used to support WWF-SA's
enabling natural vegetation to re-establish.
land stewardship work and hence clearing efforts
By maintaining these areas in an indigenous
occur on private land found within the prioritised
state, vital ecosystem services such as flood
nodes. This support serves as an incentive for
mitigation and water retention services are
landowners to conserve biodiversity through
restored to riparian areas. Healthy, functioning
stewardship agreements in order to receive
ecosystems are vital to ensuring resilience to
financial assistance to subsidise their invasive alien
climate change.
plants – clearing costs while achieving long-term
WWF-SA recognises how essential water is for
commitment to maintaining their land free of
economic development and as such encourages
invasive alien plants. Through this innovative
the nation to plan for future development
approach, the WWF-SA achieves the holistic view of
with the importance of water in mind. Overly
water supply management greatly needed in our
dependent on raw material extraction and
country.
SG
These pages were made possible with the kind assistance of Nedbank
105 S G
S eries
eneRGy
S G 106
The people behind 'Guide to Sustainia': Sustainia Founding Partners Realdania, DNV, Novo Nordisk, DONG Energy and Monday Morning
In this series, we republish HEALTH excerpts from Guide to Sustainia: Guide Exploring the Sustainable Society to nd SuStainia of Tomorrow (2 edition). Text and research by international sustainability institute, Sustainia. Sustainia Knowledge Partners
Microsoft, Philips Lighting, VELUX, General Electric, Vestas, Tetra Pak, UBS Investment Bank, Rambøll, IKEA, SAS, Cisco, Gehl Architects Executive Director, Sustainia
& Editor of 'Guide to Sustainia' Laura Storm
Project Manager of 'Guide to Sustainia' Jakob Anker Hansen Lead Writers
Laura Storm (Welcome to Sustainia, Cities & Homes), Jakob Anker Hansen (Health), Justin
Gerdes (Transportation), Morten Jastrup (Energy & Homes), Jakob Riiskjær (Energy), Solvej
Karlshøj Christiansen (Fashion), Jonas Eder-Hansen (Fashion), Summer Rayne Oakes (Fashion)
SUSTAINIA
Proofread
Justin Gerdes
Design of 2nd edition
Lisa Haglund & Tine Vognsen Acknowledgement
Claire Hamer (ASOS), Christian Smith (ASOS), Aaron Bolte (Future Fashion Guides), Marie
Engberg (Future Fabrics), Mark Bannister (Echo Sourcing), Gauden Galea (WHO/Europe), Andy Haines (London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine), Bjarne Bruun Jensen (Steno Dia-
betes Center), Christina Warren Schnohr (University of Copenhagen), Buvana Chinnaswamy (Novo Nordisk), Ray Pinto (Microsoft), Charles Nielsen (DONG Energy) The secretariat of Sustainia
SuStainia
Monday Morning
BUILDING THE WORLD OF TOMORROW
explorinG the SuStainable Society of tomorrow
Valkendorfsgade 13, P.O. Box 1127
2nd edition
DK-1009 Copenhagen K Phone: +45 33939323
Email: Sustainia@mm.dk www.sustainia.me www.facebook.com/sustainia
SUSTAINIA
Printed in Denmark 2013 Sustainia is initiated by Monday Morning, Scandinavias largest 54
1P ri
n t e d m atter
45
7
independent think tank and monthly magazine.
"eLeCtRiC "eLeCtRiC PoWeR PoWeR iS iS eVeRyeVeRyWHeRe WHeRe PReSent PReSent in in unLiMited unLiMited quantitieS quantitieS and and Can Can dRiVe dRiVe tHe tHe WoRLd'S WoRLd'S MaCHineRy MaCHineRy WitHout WitHout tHe tHe need need FoR FoR CoaL, CoaL, oiL oiL oR oR GaS". GaS". niKoLa niKoLa teSLa teSLa 107 S G
Welcome to the energy system in Sustainia
In Sustania, energy poverty is not accepted. We strive to use energy efficiently and source clean renewable energy from the wind, the sun, waste, the oceans and rivers, and the heat of the earth.
Energy is life – we need it to survive. It gives us warmth, light, and the power to create goods needed for daily life. It gives us mobility and communication. We use energy all day – from when we get up in the morning till we go to bed at night. Even asleep, we use energy to keep our houses warm or cool. Some appliances and facilities – freezers and refrigerators, hospitals and data centers – use energy 24 hours a day. We are addicted to energy, but luckily there is more of it around us than we will ever need . It’s easy to tap in to, it’s clean, and 1
it’s largely local. In Sustainia, we live in rooms with comfortable
sustainable nor reliable. More than 60% of global greenhouse gas emissions were associated with energy production and consumption2, not even counting transportation. Scientists warned we were on a catastrophic path towards climate disaster and resource depletion. Realising that neither lowering energy consumption nor changing the energy supply to more sustainable sources alone were sufficient, we developed a broad approach that has served as a
indoor temperatures, we travel, and we use
driver for a change of the energy system:
communication technologies extensively. And we
•
recognise the right for all to do the same. Energy poverty is not accepted. We strive to
and rivers, and the heat of the earth. In Sustainia, we even extract greenhouse gases
•
and forestry waste. As most of our energy is locally or regionally produced, we don’t worry much about security of supply.
Arguments for change A transformation of our energy system had to happen. The path we were on was neither
S G 108
Supporting the development and deployment of promising sustainable energy technologies, creating new industries and job opportunities.
from the atmosphere by capturing and storing carbon from power plants running on agricultural
saves money that can be reinvested in further efficiency or new cleaner energy sources.
use energy efficiently and source clean renewable energy from the wind, the sun, waste, the oceans
Investing in energy-efficiency creates jobs and
•
Working to include the real costs of pollution
•
Highlighting the benefits of sustainable energy
into energy prices.
to create greater public demand.
We now enjoy cleaner air and a blue sky. And we love not having to worry about supply. The sun will always shine and the wind always blows.
SG
1
Renewable Energy Sources and Climate Change Mitigation – Special Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate 2 World Resources Institute, World Greenhouse Gas Emissions: 2005.
Change (IPCC), 2012 •
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sUstAInIA energy energy sUstAInIA prInCIples prInCIples
111 EnErgy EnErgy EnErgyaCCEss aCCEss aCCEssfor for forall all all
134 134 134
In Sustainia, we even extract greenhouse gases from the atmosphere by capturing and storing carbon from power plants running on agricultural and forestry waste. As most of our energy is locally or regionally produced, we don’t worry much about security of supply. aCCEss for all
sUstAInIA energy prInCIples
y
1 2 3 4 5
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109 S G
powered by nAtUre
world energy sUpply (2008)
492 EJ per year
CleAn energy soUrCes CAn CreAte FAr more energy thAn we wIll need
Renewable energy sources can cover enRenewable energy sources can our cover ergy times over.times The graph our needs energymany needs many over.shows The the potential created from sixcreated sources graph showsenergy the potential energy of renewable energy if used in a way that from six sources of renewable energybalif anced the aneed energy with thethe technical used in wayforthat balanced need and social limitations; all, weand don’tsocial want for energy with the after technical solar panels everywhere – and wewant don´t solar have limitations; after all, we don’t to. panels everywhere – and we don't have to. Regions thethe world havehave accessaccess to differRegionsofof world to ent resources and must find the optimal mix of different resources and must find the clean energy optimal mixsources. of clean energy sources.
data source: renewable energy sources and Climate Change mitigation – special report of the Intergovernmental, panel on Climate Change (IpCC), 2012. the graph shows the middle value of the technical potential identified in the report for the six sources of energy. the illustration is made with inspiration from ‘daylight & Architecture’ published by the velUx group
S G 110
renewAble energy resoUrCes
hydro 51 EJ per year
oCeAn 169 EJ per year
bIomAss 275 EJ per year
solAr 25,706 EJ per year
wInd 332,5 EJ per year
geothermAl 774,5 EJ per year
111 S G
Event
The 8th Southern African Energy Efficiency Convention (SAEEC) held at Emperors Palace in Johannesburg in November 2013, was a 'stellar success' with delegates and visitors 'raving about the event'. We report.
S G 112
T
his home brewed convention showcased the latest products, projects and services while
addressing
policies
through
a series of plenary sessions, workshops and an inter-active exhibition area. It featured 28 speakers, 35 exhibitors and 350 delegates for a day of synergy and sharing of best-practice in the SA energy industry urging one another
Co-generation attracted the most interest at the event with both international and local speakers addressing the inefficiencies of applications and exploring new opportunities for generation of power. mines and industry while trying to reduce losses and unlock the potential of the applications. The M&V tracked case studies of projects and the opportunities available with a strong emphasis on towards the development of sustainable solutions
the credibility of M&V and the systematic approach
for the nation and in addressing its challenges.
to consistent reporting.
Opening the SAEEC was Member of Parliament
Co-generation attracted the most interest at the
S J Njikelana, the Chairperson for the portfolio
event with both international and local speakers
committee on Energy addressing governments
addressing the inefficiencies of applications and
priorities going forward as a nation, before Eskom's
exploring new opportunities for generation of
senior general manager Andrew Etzinger gave an
power.
update on the electricity system and the role of
The progress of the fast-growing Renewable and
energy efficiency in ensuring adequate supply in SA.
Alternative Energy industry in SA was showcased in
Dr Stephen Roosa, account executive from Energy
the final track, stating the case for the efficiencies
Systems Group in the US, looked at the linkages
of solar, wind and nuclear.
between sustainability policies and renewables
Karel Steyn, President of the SAEE said: ‘The
– where these applications are changing global
2013 SAEEC was another great success and a
markets as wind power is currently now 'cheaper
very positive injection into the energy industry in SA. Special thanks must go to the following
than dirt' in the US. The afternoon sessions were broken up into
companies who continue to support and lead the
four tracks addressing financing and tax, energy
cause for energy efficiency in SA: Gold sponsors
management, energy efficiency in buildings and
– SA National Accreditation System www.sanas.
energy saving case studies.
co.za, Yingli Green Energy Africa www.yinglisolar.
The SAEE awards were in four categories: Energy
com and the Industrial Development Corporation
Newcomer of the Year; Energy Project of the Year;
www.idc.co.za. Other sponsors included Complete
Energy Patron of the Year and Energy Company of
Exhibitions www.compex.co.za and Easigas www.
the Year. Bursary winners, best exhibition stands at
easigas.co.za.
the event and the prestigious SAEE Hall of Fame were also announced. The second day of the event switched focus to practical workshops in areas of measurement and verification, cogeneration, mining and alternative energy. Four
tracks
'Can I urge all South Africans to reduce their energy use and switch off lights, machines and
were
facilitated:
Mining
and
Industrial efficiency; Measurement and Verification (M&V); Cogeneration and Renewable; and Alternative
Energy. With SA’s continued reliance on coal, the Mining track focused on increasing efficiencies in our
appliances when they are not needed and together we can secure the energy future of our country.’
AWARDS 1. The SAEE Energy Company of the year 2013 went to Toyota Toyota SA Motors is the largest vehicle manufacturer, exporter, employer and investor in SA. As a full affiliate of Toyota Motor Corporation, the world’s leading green vehicle manufacturer, it has set
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Past President of the SAEE L J Grobler presented the Energy Company of the Year award to Arden Wessels from Toyota SA
SAEE President Karel Steyn presented the SAEE Hall of Fame inductee 2013 to Dieter Kruger
aggressive enviro-targets for its manufacturing and
efficiency. He then joined Africon (now Aurecon) in
retail divisions, including the reduction of energy
2006 as a project manager.
usage, vehicle emissions and waste, the re-use of
His lifelong interest in energy and energy
packaging and other materials and the recycling of
conservation is evident in his day-to-day activities
waste and end-of-life vehicle components. Toyota’s
commitment
to
the
and passion in energy-related work. He represented
environment
SA on several national and international forums on
reaches beyond its daily operations to its corporate
energy, including International Committee for Coal
support for enviro-protection initiatives, including
Research (ICCR), World Energy Council (WEC, through
animal breeding and protection projects and
SANCWEC, the SA National Committee of the WEC)
the International Barcode of Life project for the
and the SA National Committee for Energy Research
protection of fauna and flora.
(NCER).
Toyota SA Motors received the global award
He is also the secretary of the SA Association
for best energy reduction plant in the Toyota
of Energy Services Companies (SAAEs) since its
Group worldwide during 2012. This is largely
formation in 2005 and a part-time consultant for
due to their energy projects, the behavioural
BBEnergy.
changes with respect to energy usage improvement
Dieter has been an asset to the SA energy
by the workforce and strong focus from senior
efficiency industry since very early in his career
management.
when he first became co-ordinator of the CSIR’s National Energy Program in '83.
2. The SAEE Hall of Fame inductee 2013 winner went to Dieter Kruger
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Dieter Krueger is a professional engineer and a
3. The 2013 SAEE Energy Newcomer of the Year winner went to BBEnergy
Certified Energy Manager. As project manager for E L
BBEnergy was formed in 2011 as an Energy Saving
Bateman he was responsible for various construction
Company operating in the mining sector, focusing
projects in the coal mining and processing sector.
on compressed air, refrigeration, pumping and
He was later appointed as director of the CSIR’s
ventilation energy-efficiency projects. Today it
Division of Energy Technology and in 2002 he
boasts a staff compliment of 39 which includes 33
joined North West University as senior lecturer in
engineers with three PhDs, eight Masters, two MBAs,
the Faculty of Engineering, where he supervised MSc
12 CEMs and three CMVPs. BBEnergy has completed
and PhD students and published several engineering
projects with Eskom M&V verified savings of 40mW,
articles focusing on energy optimisation and
currently executing projects for 30mW and 35mW
The Energy Newc Jurgen Prange from
comer of the Year award was presented to m BBEnergy
The Energy Newcomer of the Year award went to Esbe Van Zyl from Wispeco Aluminium
of projects proposals submitted under adjudication.
The Energy Newcomer of the Year award went to Stephan Allen from Magnet Electrical Supplies
around 1000 people throughout SA.
BBEnergy has contracts for five 1mW Solar PV
following in this year. BBEnergy clients now include
5. The SAEE Energy Project of the Year was awarded to Magnet Electrical Supplies
projects and has designed and implemented a 150kW Linear Fresnel plant with a 600kW plant all SA’s large mining companies and services cover
Magnet Electrical Supplies are suppliers of quality
every high-energy intensity process in hard-rock
branded
mining.
instrumentation, as well as abrasive materials
electrical
equipment
and
industrial
and have become one of the country’s leading
4. The winner for the Energy Patron of the Year went to Wispeco Aluminium
specialists in energy-saving project management.
Wispeco Aluminium is the leading aluminium
dramatically over the years, most notably in the area
extrusion company in SA and offers a one-stop-shop
of energy-efficient projects.
Since it was founded in '72, Magnet has grown
in the supply of mill finish – powder-coated
Under the leadership of Managing Director
and anodised aluminium extrusions for various
Brian Howarth, Magnet has maintained its leading
applications in a variety of industries – such as
position in this highly competitive industry because
building and construction, transport, energy,
of its commitment to optimum quality, on-going
agricultural, general engineering, automotive and
assessment of market requirements and expert
others.
service delivery.
The company consists of four main operating
No doubt Magnet’s greatest strength is its team
units – Billet Casting, Aluminium Extrusion, Surface
of loyal, technically competent individuals. One
Finishing and Aluminium Systems Development.
such individual is Magnet’s Technical Director,
Wispeco Aluminium operates eight extrusion
Stephan Allen, who has built up an impressive
presses, six powder coating lines and three
repertoire of energy-saving projects for numerous
anodising lines at three different manufacturing
reputable companies over the decade he has spent
sites throughout SA, with the manufacturing and
at Magnet.
SG
distribution capability and capacity to meet market requirements. Wispeco strives to deliver excellent levels
Visit www.convention.saee.org.za
of quality, service and responsiveness, price competitiveness and technical support and employs
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Energy
news
Scientists find radioactive fracking waste in Pennsylvanian stream
A group of Duke University scientists have found concentrations of radium, a highly radioactive substance, in a stream near a facility that treats wastewater left over from hydraulic fracturing. The concentrations are 200 times higher than background levels – and they're in the water supply. If you aren't aware, fracking is the practice of pumping chemical-laced liquids underground at high pressure to help bring gasses, like methane, to the surface for extraction. But these chemicals are known to seep into groundwater in some cases. And the high-pressure fluids usedmay be causing earthquakes. In Pennsylvania, there are 74 facilities that treat fracking wastewater – water that eventually makes its way back into local streams. But there's no national set of guidelines that oversee and regulate this treatment process. What's more, scientists have performed few studies of the wastewater to ensure that it's safe after treatment. 'Even if, today, you completely stopped disposal of the wastewater,' says Avner Vengosh, an Earth scientist from Duke, 'there’s enough contamination built up that you’d still end up with a place that the US would consider a radioactive waste site.' Thanks to the Duke researchers, it's clear that without proper controls, the wastewater is being returned to the environment in a state that poses a genuine risk for local residents. And indeed, at least one plant – about an hour's drive east of Pittsburgh – is releasing this radioactive effluent into the watershed that supplies the city's drinking water.
WATCH THIS!
Unearthed: The Fracking Facade
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Top: Earth scientist, Avner Vengosh
Stanford's pomegranateinspired super batteries
Pomegranates are a superfood for humans, and now they’re inspiring scientists to make super batteries for your smart phone and other devices. Researchers at Stanford University have taken inspiration from the pomegranate to design a supercharged anode battery. Working in collaboration with the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, the team used the pomegranate's unique seed design to make a battery that can store 10 times more charge than a standard rechargeable lithium-ion battery. The pomegranate project could lead to smaller and lighter silicon anode batteries. The silicon anodes could store 10 times more power than traditional graphite anodes, operating at 97% capacity even after being charged and used 1 000 times. Clustered like pomegranate seeds, the silicon anodes are light and powerful, encased in carbon shells that conduct electricity. Traditional graphite anodes are also grouped in clusters, but during the cycling process they form 'gunk' which gradually deteriorates the life of the battery. The silicon anodes are smaller than their carbon outer casing, which enables more leeway when cycling, and prolongs the life of the battery. As the silicon is charged, it expands within its carbon shell, which keeps the anode safe and intact and acts as a perfect path for electrical currents. The scientists are currently working on perfecting the process, and sourcing lower-priced silicon nanoparticles to make the battery affordable for the consumer market.
Researchers discover +-6 000 natural gas leaks in Washington, DC
Left, top: Silicon nanoparticles are encased in carbon 'yolk shells' and clustered like seeds in a pomegranate. Each cluster has a carbon rind that holds it together, conducts electricity and minimises reactions with the battery’s electrolyte that can degrade performance. Left, bottom: Silicon nanoparticles swell during battery charging to completely fill their yolk shells; no space is wasted, and the shells stay intact.
A street-by-street survey of the District of Columbia has found nearly 6 000 natural gas leaks in the city’s aging pipes. A dozen of those leaks were found beneath manholes, where methane has accumulated to potentially explosive levels. Even after warning Washington of the exposed gas at dangerous levels in those locations, retesting four months later revealed eight of the 12 locations were still at potentially dangerous concentrations. Locations near leaks tested positive for levels of gas many times what would be found in the environment. While most of these leaks disperse quickly into the air and pose no threat to human health, the same can’t be said for the environment – or for consumers' wallets. The gas emissions leaking into the atmosphere are know to contributing to climate change. In 2000 and 2003, explosions in Georgetown and other parts of the city sent manhole covers flying through the air. While there were no injuries as a result, it cost $30m to upgrade infrastructure in the affected areas. Gas lines aren't the only pipes in the District that are having trouble with leaks, either; the city and its suburbs are plagued by ageing water mains which have been known to rupture during cold weather, resulting in outages. Many older cities struggle with the same issue of ageing pipes, from Boston to locations as far-flung as Rio de Janeiro. In the US alone, natural gas pipeline failures cause an average of 17 fatalities and $133m in property damage every year. While the District’s Public Service Commission claims that its ordered Washington Gas to aggressively replace cast-iron mains and pipe couplings, it's clear from these findings that there remains much work to be done to bring the city up to modern standards.
WATCH THIS!
Above: By precisely controlling the process used to make them, Stanford and SLAC researchers can produce pomegranate clusters of a specific size for silicon battery anodes. Microscopic clusters can be seen to form a fine black powder that can be coated on foil to create an anode. In this close-up of a cluster on th far right, a silicon nanoparticle can be seen inside its yolk shell, with space to swell during battery charging.
Natural Gas Leak Study
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Mobility News Nissan update Leaf best-selling EV
Earlier this year, the 100 000th all-electric Nissan LEAF was bought by a customer in the UK. The Nissan LEAF, the world’s first mass-produced zero-emissions vehicle, remains the best-selling EV in history with a 45% market share.
e-NV200
After leading the era of electrification in passenger vehicles with the LEAF, Nissan will in 2014 bring an all-electric light commercial vehicle to market. The e-NV200 will go on sale in Europe and Japan bringing the benefits of quiet, cost-efficient, zero-emissions mobility to businesses.
Fastest EVs compete
In June 2014, Nissan will participate in the 24 Hours of Le Mans with the NISSAN ZEOD RC and aims to set a record for the fastest all-electric, zero-emissions lap of the circuit. Nissan is committed to using the EV platform to break new ground in both the commercial-vehicle and motorsports arenas.
World's 1st Solar Family Car Takes Prize at World Solar Challenge
The votes are in for the most practical solar-powered vehicle to compete in this year’s 3 000km World Solar Challenge, and the winner is the Stella, a four-seat family vehicle created by the Dutch Solar Team Eindhoven. Unlike a traditional race, the WSC this year judged contestants in two classes: the Challenger class, where vehicles compete on sheer speed, and the Cruiser class, created to reward designers for developing practical vehicles that meet road regulations and can hold at least one passenger. With enough room for three passengers, cargo space for hauling groceries, and the ability to parallel park, the Stella was the clear winner. It also had one more big advantage over the competition: it was the only car in the race to have a license plate and legal road registration. Eindhoven students carefully developed the Stella over the course of a year and a half, placing solar panels on the roof and rear. The Stella has a top speed of 120km/h and an average speed of 67km/h. Because the car uses only about half the power that the solar cells generate, it can actually give surplus power back to the grid when stationary.
Tesla Supercharging Stations from LA to NY
For the first time, Tesla Model S drivers can travel from coast to coast at no charge, thanks to a network of 'superchargers' stretching across a number of major US cities, offering up to 270km of charge in just 30 minutes. The best part? Use of the stations is absolutely free.
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Mercedes Band M-Class: enviro-champions
Elio Motors' two-seater P4 vehicle: 29km/l & costs $6 800
Today's top of the line hybrids and electric cars feature expensive systems under the hood that place them out of reach for many buyers, but Elio Motors could change all that with their new P4. The vehicle is a small vehicle that only measures 4m long with a 2.75m wheelbase, but Elio Motors says the vehicle was designed to fit a 1.8m, 100kg person. The tallest person to fit in the P4 was 2m, and the largest person weighed 165kg. The vehicle has room for two passengers that sit in tandem, meaning that the second passenger sits behind the driver. The P4 is expected to get the government’s highest 5-star safety rating thanks to its reinforced roll cage and three airbags. Under the hood, the vehicle is powered by a 0.9l three-cylinder engine with 55 horsepower. Buyers can choose from a five-speed manual or automatic transmission, and the P4 has a range of 1 075km with a 29km/l highway rating. In the city, the vehicle is rated at 21.2km/l Elio Motors is now accepting reservations for the vehicle, which is going to be built at its plant in Shreveport, LA. Elio Motors has already received over 8 000 reservations, and production is expected to kick off soon.
Ford's 1st solar car debuts at International CES Show 2014
The new C-MAX Solar Energi concept is based on the C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid, but the addition of solar panels means that it can harness the power of the sun to provide emissions-free driving. According to Ford, the vehicle concept can convert a day’s worth of sunlight to deliver the same performance as the conventional C-MAX Energi plug-in hybrid, which draws its power from the electric grid. The vehicle concept is estimated to have the same total range as a conventional C-MAX Energi of up to 992km, including up to 33.6 electric only kilometres. Additionally, the vehicle still has a charge port. It hasn’t been announced if the C-MAX Solar Energi concept will ever be produced, but Ford and Georgia Tech have begun testing the vehicle in numerous real-world scenarios for viability.
Mercedes-Benz B 200 Natural Gas Drive and Mercedes-Benz ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC are AUTOTEST Environmental Champions 2014. The two models took first place for the Compact Van and SUV categories respectively in the enviro-ranking which the AUTOTEST product-testing magazine of the German AutoBild Group carries out annually together with the ÖKO TREND institute for enviro-research. The independent Wuppertal-based institute delves beyond the vehicle's fuel consumption, examining the entire life cycle – from production through to recycling. B 200 Natural Gas Drive: alternative for high-mileage drivers The B 200 Natural Gas Drive boasts reduced CO2 emissions, markedly cleaner emissions than with petrol or diesel and fuel costs which are some 50% lower than those of a comparable petrol car. When running on natural gas, the fuel consumption of the 115 kW (156 hp) B-Class stands at only 4.2kg/100km (CO2 emissions of 115g per/km). The vehicle operates according to the monovalent+ principle. This means that its engine generally runs on gas. For emergencies, however, there is a small 12l petrol tank on board. For info on the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, see our coverage in Simply Green, Issue 3, here.
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100 autonomous cars set for Sweden's public roads in 2017
TABBY: DIY open source EV,
assembles in under an hour
In an effort to make cars more accessible, affordable, and efficient, OSVehicle created the TABBY and Urban TABBY EV chassis. Available in two or four-seat versions, the DIY cars can integrate a hybrid engine or fully electric drivetrain. The OSVehicles are capable of accommodating either a conventional combustion system, integrated hybrid engine, or a fully electric motor. Finished models possess a price tag of around $5 445 to $8 168. The TABBY is OSVehicle’s original design, and while not street legal according to its current blueprints, it can be easily modified to adhere to local laws. The Urban TABBY is the fully compliant progression of the TABBY, and is equipped with all of the elements it needs to keep it within the limits of safety. Most importantly, the directions are available for download through the OSVehicle site, and can be modified to satisfy just about any builder’s imagination. Parts for the TABBY are up for pre-order, and fully assembled vehicles complete with electric stock motors are expected to roll out some time around Spring 2014. The OSVehicles not only make building a commuter vehicle affordable and interactive, but also helps to put the production of personal transportation back into the hands of the consumer.
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The Drive Me project will see 100 autonomous vehicles take to the streets of Gothenburg, Sweden in 2017. The cars will traverse 48km of public roads while encountering heavy commuter traffic, pedestrians and shifting highway conditions. While 'non-drivers' will be behind the wheel during standard trips, Volvo anticipates that the cars will be able to seek out a parking spot, and park without the presence of a driver. The $76.2m pilot project is a collaboration between Volvo, the Swedish Transport Administration, the Swedish Transport Agency, Lindholmen Science Park and the City of Gothenburg, and it's expected to place Sweden at the fore of autonomous driving technology and infrastructure development. While other companies, most notably Google, Toyota and Mercedes have been developing their own self-driving systems, tests on public roads have so far been limited to a small number of vehicles. Volvo's autonomous cars will travel at a maximum speed of 70km/h, and will have specially trained 'non-drivers' behind the wheel who will be able to assume control of the vehicle when needed. According to Physorg, the autonomous technology features 360° cameras, GPS and additional sensors to act as the 'eyes and ears' of the vehicle, enabling the car to operate fully automated. By launching a test of these vehicles on this scale, Volvo hopes to demonstrate the safety and efficiency of these cars. Part of Volvo's overall goal is that no one be killed or seriously injured in any of their cars by 2020.
Hamburg announces plans to become car-free in 20 Years
The city’s proposed Green Network will create pedestrian and cycle paths to connect the city’s existing, substantial green spaces, and provide safe, car-free commuter routes for all residents. The network will be constructed over the next 15-20 years, and it will create car-free paths between all major parks, playgrounds, community gardens, and cemeteries in Hamburg. The resulting network will cover 40% of Germany’s second-largest city, and it should enable commuters and tourists alike to navigate the once-car-dependent city entirely by bicycle and on foot. The goals of the network are multiple. On one end, Hamburg recognises the need to change in the face of global warming; in the past 60 years the city’s median temperature has increased by 1.2°C to 9°C, and sea levels have risen by 20cm – and they're expected to increase another 30cm by 2100. While a car-free city will undoubtedly do much to lower CO2 emissions, the expanded green spaces that will fall along the new, green paths will also help to alleviate flooding in the event of heavy rainfall or superstorms. Additionally, such a network will contribute to the overall health of the city and its inhabitants. Says city spokesperson Angelika Fritsch: 'It will offer people opportunities to hike, swim, do water sports, enjoy picnics and restaurants, experience calm and watch nature and wildlife right in the city. That reduces the need to take the car for weekend outings outside the city.' Copenhagen has also undertaken perhaps the most ambitious of these plans with the construction of 26 bicycle 'superhighways', that extend out from the city centre as part of the city’s goal to become carbon neutral by 2050.
Photosynthesis Bike Purifies the Air as You Ride
Biking to work is about to get a whole lot greener. Not only are bicycles better for the Earth than driving and a great way to keep in shape – but a new bike concept recently unveiled by Bangkok-based Lightfog Creative & Design Company could actually purify polluted air as you pedal around the city. The bike’s aluminium frame is designed to generates oxygen through a 'photosynthesis system' that initiates a reaction between water and electric power from a lithium-ion battery. Right now a prototype of the bike hasn’t yet been developed, but that didn’t stop the innovative new design from recently winning a Red Dot award. While many of the technical details aren’t completely fleshed out yet, the frame itself would convert sunlight into energy to run the oxygen-producing fuel cell battery. A filter placed between the handlebars would strip particulate matter from the air and release clean air toward the rider. The bike would even be able to continue releasing clean air while it’s parked, using battery power. It’s going to be exciting to follow this concept’s progress in the future as it becomes a reality.
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Cycle
recycling customer-friendly
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In an industry first, Woolworths has initiated and introduced a new on-pack recycling label (OPRL), intended to assist recycling efforts by making it easier for customers to recycle correctly, while stimulating the growth of the recycling sector. We take a look.
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W
oolworths was motivated to develop the new recycling labels after feedback from customers revealed that the industry
symbols currently used on packaging are confusing. To date, recycling labels across the sector have been designed to assist waste collectors and waste separators, and not customers. Further feedback showed that most customers assume that all packaging is recyclable as long as it has a material symbol on the label, which is of course not the case. The SA recycling sector doesn't yet have the appropriate technology and infrastructure to recycle certain materials, and current labels do not share information on what is
by reducing customer confusion and replacing the
and isn't being recycled.
current symbols with standardised icons on its
In other instances, customers were not aware
products.
that despite their efforts to recycle, they were
The new OPRL provides customers with simple
contaminating recyclable material streams through
icons and messaging showing each component of
incorrect disposal. For example, they weren't
the packaging; the type of material it is made from
aware that certain packaging components should
(including what sustainable materials have been
be separated from the pack in order for other
used in the packaging); and the likelihood of each
components to be recycled successfully. The lack of consumer-friendly recycling labels,
element of the packaging being widely recycled in SA, or not.
insufficient information for customers and high
'Using the same icons on packaging designs
levels of contamination result in lower rates of
across the retail and waste management sector will
recycling with too much recyclable material still
improve the rate of recycling by making it easier
making its way to landfill sites. According to the
for customers to participate. Our aim is for the
Department of Environmental Affairs' (DEA) National
design of the Woolworths on-pack recycling label to
Waste Information Baseline Report released in 2012,
become the adopted standard for all packaging in
about 108 million tons of waste is generated in
South Africa,' says Kiril Dimitrov, Woolworths Foods
SA. Of that, only about 10% was recycled and the
Packaging Manager.
remaining 90% disposed at landfill.
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The lack of consumer-friendly recycling labels, insufficient information for customers and high levels of contamination result in lower rates of recycling with too much recyclable material still making its way to landfill sites.
'Currently too much recyclable packaging still
WastePlan, a SA recycling company, reports
makes its way to landfill. By giving customers the
that of the 150  000 households that participate
information they need to take action, we can ensure
in their recycling program, more than 10% of
that more of the materials that can be recycled,
recyclable material become non-recyclable due
are in fact recycled. This label gives consumers the
to contamination. According to Bertie Lourens,
information they need to make the right choices
Managing Director of WastePlan: 'We've seen many
when they sort and dispose of recyclable products.
kerb-side recycling initiatives in the sector fail due
Most of our customers want to recycle; these
to increasing transport and labour costs which
labels make it easier for them to make informed
combine to make the service uneconomical. As
decisions,' Dimitrov adds.
customers become more informed about recycling,
The Woolworths on-pack recycling label was
more people will participate and the quality of
launched in November 2013 and can already be
material collected will improve. Initiatives such as
seen in-store on a select number of product lines.
consumer-friendly recycling labels will help to boost
Woolworths aims to have at least 20% of its
the local industry.'
products displaying the new label by March 2014.
Woolworths believes that SA's recycling and
Introduction of the new on-pack recycling label will
resource recovery rates can be significantly improved
be phased in as designs change or new product
and beyond what is expected of them to support
lines are introduced. 'Our approach to packaging is about achieving
customers' environmental efforts. We're encouraged
the right balance between ensuring that products
to see Woolworths taking the first step and calling
remain protected and, in the case of food, that the
on the rest of the industry to follow suit.'
product remains safe and hygienic. Our packaging
The design of the Woolworths on-pack recycling
also extends the shelf life for as long as possible
label is currently supported by a number of industry
so that additional food waste is not created. This
associations, including PACSA, PRASA, Plastics|SA,
means that we are committed to using packaging
SAPRO, Collect-a-can, The Glass Recycling Company,
responsibly,' Dimitrov concludes.
PETCO, POLYCO, Wasteman and WastePlan.
SG
Charles Muller of the Packaging Council of South Africa (PACSA) says, 'This new label design
For more info visit
shows leading retailers are prepared to go above
www.woolworths.co.za/goodbusinessjourney
These pages were made possible with the kind assistance of Woolworths
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Health
Coconut oil:
A True Superfood part i
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Coconut (Cocos nucifera) belongs to the palm family (Arecaceae). Grown in abundance in Malaysia, Polynesia and southern Asia, Spanish explorers named them cocos, meaning 'grinning face', because of the three little eyes on the base which they thought resembled a monkey. Once rare and exotic, coconut in its various forms is now easily and widely available. Coconut oil, it turns out, is one of nature' true superfoods. We take a closer look.
DID YOU KNOW?
In the past, there was strong propaganda by the corn and soy oil industries against coconut oil because it was hurting their business and their profits. Their allegations were that due to coconut oil's high saturated fat content it was harmful to one's health. Yet this oil has been used extensively in tropical countries like the Philippines, Thailand, and India for generations with no known adverse side-effects.
C
lassed as a fruit and frequently confused as being a 'nut', the coconut, despite its name, is actually a one-seeded drupe.
In Sanskrit, the coconut palm is known as kalpa vriksha – or 'tree which gives all that is necessary for living' – because nearly all parts can be used including its 'water', milk, flesh, sugar and oil. Even the husks and leaves are used as materials in furnishings and decoration. Palm trees produce coconuts up to 13 times a year and although it takes a year for the coconuts to mature, a fully blossomed tree can produce between 60-180 coconuts in a single harvest. In the past, there was strong propaganda by the corn and soy oil industries against coconut oil because it was hurting their business and their profits. Their allegations were that due to coconut oil's high saturated fat content it was harmful to one's health. Yet this oil has been used extensively in tropical countries like the Philippines, Thailand, and India for generations with no known adverse side-effects. Coconut oil was also very popular in the western countries like the US and Canada but they succumbed to the propaganda and cut back on its use, though this trend began to reverse in the last decade during which the anti-coconut propaganda was questioned and seriously looked into. What was discovered under close scientific review has brought back coconut oils' popularity.
Benefits So what's so good about coconut, and more particularly its oil? For one thing, it's a great source of natural electrolytes, fibre, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. The health benefits of coconut oil are truly numerous, and there is not a single valid reason not to incorporate this amazing superfood into your diet. Let's begin with the propaganda mentioned
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The health benefits of coconut oil are truly numerous, so be sure to incorporate this amazing superfood into your diet
is
diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV and
different from that in animal products, because
cancer, as well as improved dental care and bone
it is plant-based. Used raw, unheated and sans
strength.
above.
The
saturated
fat
in
coconut
oil
cholesterol, it's the perfect replacement for butter
The benefits of coconut oil are derived in part
in recipes. And, when heated, it has a high smoke
from the presence of lauric, capric, and caprylic acids
point, which means it won't break down during
in it and the antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifungal,
normal heating. Therefore, less carcinogens are
and antibacterial properties inherent within the oil.
produced as well, as compared to many other oils.
Our bodies convert the lauric acid into monolaurin,
Coconut oil also improves digestion and is valuable
which fights the viruses and bacteria associated
to your immune system due to its antiviral and
with herpes, flu, HIV, listeria, and giardia. Despite
antifungal properties. The fatty acids in coconut oil
coconut oil being more than 90% saturated fat, most
are medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are
of which are medium-chain triglycerides, the lauric
easily metabolised and used as energy by the body.
acid is the chief contributor to its assimilation. It
Research suggests that these fatty acids may boost
also is rich in linoleic acid, oleic acid, polyphenols,
your metabolism, promote weight loss, and increase
which are responsible for its fragrance and taste,
HDL, the 'good', protective cholesterol in your body.
vitamin E, vitamin K, iron, and organic sulphur.
The many professed benefits and applications of
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In particular, rather than posing a heart and
coconut oil also include hair care, skin care, stress
cardiovascular
relief, increased immunity, proper digestion and
propaganda, coconut oil offers protection against
risk,
as
per
the
anti-coconut
metabolism, relief from kidney problems, heart
high cholesterol and heart disease. In general,
consumption of coconut oil is linked to healthy cholesterol levels in that it tends to increase HDL cholesterol levels, while lowering 'bad' LDL cholesterol levels. Lauric acid in coconut helps in preventing heart problems, high blood pressure and in reducing injuries in the arteries thereby effectively preventing atherosclerosis.
Energy & weight loss Coconut oil is extremely easy for you to digest due to the medium chain fatty acids, which are digested differently than other fats, and don't require much strain or use of the pancreas. The nutrients and energy from coconut oil are quickly absorbed and put to use, making it an efficient energy source. The antimicrobial properties of coconut oil eliminate the bad bacteria in our digestive tract, allowing for stability and relief from constipation problems, including IBS. Rather than having to be mixed with bile from the gallbladder in order to be digested and assimilated, MCTs are absorbed directly by the liver, which converts them into a substance known as ketones, or ketoacids, that feed the brain and protect against brain atrophy. Besides helping to boost energy levels naturally, these same ketones
Coconut milk can be used as a milk substitute by those with lactose intolerance. It's a popular choice with vegans and makes a great base for smoothies, milkshakes or as a dairy alternative in baking. and parasites such as tapeworm, eases acid reflux, aids in regular bowel function, lowers the risk of haemorrhoid episodes, heals and relieves intestinal symptoms, soothes earaches, and protects against liver degeneration.
Anti-cancer food A 2006 study published in the journal Food Chemistry found that regular consumption of virgin coconut oil can significantly increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes inside the body. This study and others have identified polyphenol compounds present in coconut oil as the likely active ingredient responsible for this action, which renders coconut oil as a powerful anti-cancer food.
are also believed to promote fat loss and help in
Liver & kidneys
the absorption of other nutrients like vitamins,
Coconut oil reduces the work load on the liver and
minerals and amino acids. The only time the body
prevents the accumulation of fat; it helps dissolve
produces ketones is when you fast or consume MCTs,
kidney stones; it is useful in treating pancreatitis;
which is why coconut oil is uniquely suited to help
helps with mental fatigue by massaging the head
you naturally achieve your weight-loss goals while
with it; it is effective in utilising blood sugar, thereby
simultaneously boosting energy levels. It is a win-win
preventing and treating diabetes; because it facilitates
situation for those who are overweight or obese,
the body's absorption of calcium, it strengthens the
and few foods besides coconut oil provide this dual
teeth and stops decay.
benefit. Coconut oil promotes healthy functioning of the thyroid gland as well.
Immune system
Brain Contrary to popular belief, saturated fats from coconut and other sources are not unhealthy, but
Coconut oil is also a powerful immune booster, aiding
are in fact needed by the body to prevent and treat
the body in natural regeneration and healing from
neuro-degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and
a variety of ailments without the need for drugs or
Parkinson's disease. Paediatrician and caregiver Dr
surgery. Coconut oil contains the antimicrobial fats,
Mary Newport, MD, knows first-hand how important
lauric, capric, and caprylic acids, which is converted
saturated fats are for healthy brain function, having
into monolaurin and that, in turn, is used for
published a study in 2008 documenting her successes
treating Candida albicans, fungal infections, athlete's
in treating her husband's brain degeneration with
food and also bacterial infections such as measles,
coconut oil. 'Our cells can use ketone bodies as
influenza and hepatitis C. Through its antifungal,
an alternative fuel when glucose is not available,'
antibacterial, and antiviral properties, coconut oil
explains Dr Newport in her groundbreaking paper.
also protects against cancer and HIV, kills bacteria
'Brain cells, specifically neurons, are very limited,
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more limited than other cells, in what kinds of fuel
Coconut flesh (the white part) is grated and soaked
they can use to function and to stay alive. Normally,
in hot water. The coconut cream rises to the top
they require glucose (sugar), but they can also use
and can be skimmed off. The remaining liquid is
ketone bodies.'
squeezed through a cheesecloth to extract a white
It is argued that coconut oil can stop dementia
liquid that is coconut milk. By repeating this process,
and Alzheimer's disease and maybe even reverse
the coconut milk becomes thinner. The thicker
many other neuro-degenerative disorders by simply
version is used for desserts and rich sauces. Thin
eating coconut-related foods. It is all backed by
coconut milk is used for cooking curries and soups.
scientific research and touted by many natural
Unlike cow's milk, coconut milk is lactose-free so can
healthcare professionals like Dr Bruce Fife and Dr
be used as a milk substitute by those with lactose
Russell Blaylock.
intolerance. It is a popular choice with vegans and
The scientific data is crystal clear – coconut foods can dramatically improve brain chemistry and
makes a great base for smoothies, milkshakes or as a dairy alternative in baking.
cognitive function. Consuming coconut oil will not only help improve the functioning of the brain, it can also help boost memory. Memory loss and mental disorders are caused by chronic inflammation and excess oxidative stress, all of which is combated effectively with coconut oil.
Cooking
DIY coconut milk Try making your own coconut milk from desiccated coconut, using just water and unsweetened coconut flakes. Heat the water (make sure it doesn't boil), add the flakes and blend. Pour through a colander to filter out the coconut pulp, then squeeze through a cheese cloth to filter out the smaller pieces of
Coconut oil is also a healthy oil to use for cooking, as
coconut. Use immediately or store in the fridge for
it won't turn to a harmful, cancer-associated trans-fat
3-4 days.
at high temperatures. Being an oil and not something that would be consumed frequently in more than minute quantities, coconut oil is extremely beneficial over a long period of time. One can easily buy cold-pressed organic coconut oil and take around 20ml daily; you can add it to smoothies or mix it into yogurt.
Coconut milk
Coconut water Coconut milk is different to coconut water. The latter has received a great deal of attention for it's perceived health benefits, and is an important treatment for acute diarrhoea in the developing world. Research suggests the clear liquid has the same electrolyte balance found in isotonic drinks,
Creamed coconut and coconut milk are made in a
proving useful for rehydration or after long periods
way surprisingly akin to their dairy counterparts.
of intensive exercise.
WATCH THIS!
Coconut flour is a healthy way to add decadent
Coconut flour coconut flavour to baked goods. As for the health benefits of coconut flour, it packs a whopping 5gms of fibre per two tablespoons (with only 2gm of total fat). Coconut flour has health benefits for people with diabetes, as adding coconut flour to baked goods lowers the resultant food's glycemic index. S G For more info, see Dr Mary Newport's book Alzheimer's Disease: What If There Was A Cure?
Therapy for Alzheimer's Treatment Dr Mary T Newport at TEDxUSF
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In our next issue we will focus on some of the many other benefits of coconut oil and related products as we look at their application to hair, beauty and general household uses.
Wellness Coconut Blossom Sugar is made from the sugary sap of the coconut palm. It's a lower-GI alternative to cane sugar that gives you an anti-ageing antioxidant boost. Click here.
Coconut Products
Coconut Blossom Sugar
Coconut Water Quinn's Pure Coconut Oil
Refined coconut oil is the safest and most effective cooking oil. Use coconut oil to moisturise skin, and remove blemishes and on your hair to combat dandruff and condition. Consume coconut oil in its recommended quantities to boost energy levels and it may even assist with weight-loss. Refined coconut oil (RBD – refined, bleached and deodorised) can be used to replace vegetable oil for cooking and baking. With RBD oil all the phytonutrients have been removed so it is tasteless and odourless. Product of Mozambique. www.quinnspurecoconutoil.co.za
Dis-chem Lifestyle Food
Dis-Chem Coconut Oil, available in 400ml. http://dischemonline.co.za
Coconut water is the clear liquid that comes from the inside of whole, young green coconuts with hints of natural sweetness and nutty flavours. It is loaded with vital nutrients, amino acids, minerals and has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has a distinct coconut flavour and aroma, and is a creamy, solid oil highly adaptable with many applications. Cholesterol free. Add to curries, salads use as a substitute for butter or add to smoothies, shakes and yogurt. Click here.
Coconut Flour
Naturally low in carbohydrates and high in nutrient content, coconut flour is a healthy alternative for baking and cooking. Coconut flour is made from the meat of the coconut that has been dried and ground into four. Click here &
Coconut Shreds & Desiccated Coconut
Organic, fine desiccated coconut and coconut shreds that can be used in baking, as a snack and in cereals or other foods. Click here &
Products here are available from www.wellnesswarehouse.com 131 S G
Trek Cocoa Coconut Protein Flapjack
Organic Coconut Milk Powder
Mix this Organic Coconut milk powder with water to make a nutritious vegan milk. Free of lactose, gluten, soya and cholesterol. Subtle, delicious and perfect for smoothies, hot drinks or on its own. Recommended for all ages. Consists of 50% partially defatted coconut pulp, acacia fibre (prebiotic), dehydrated rice syrup, natural vanilla and coconut flavours, and coconut flower nectar. Certified organic and proudly South African. Click here.
Treat yourself to a healthy and nutritious snack with this natural cereal bar made from real coconut chips, gluten-free oats, protein crunch and a dash of dark chocolate. Trek Protein Flapjacks are deliciously healthy, giving you an energy boost and keeping you fuller for longer. Couple that with a coconut and cocoa flavoured snack break and you have a yummy tropical delight. What’s more they’re all handmade, gluten and diary-free. Natural and made overseas. Click here.
Amaizin Organic Coconut Milk
Top seller of 2013
This organic coconut milk is dairy-free and full of flavour; perfect for various dishes, desserts ad cocktails. Very thick and rich flavour. You only need to use a small amount in a dish. Unlike anything from the supermarket. Certified organic and made overseas. Click here.
Crede Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
Virgin coconut oil (also known as coconut butter), cold-pressed from the white 'meat' of the coconut, consists almost entirely of the saturated fatty acids lauric acid and myristic acid. Its unusual fatty acids profile means that coconut oil cannot contain harmful transfats, since these can only be created out of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids. The high content of saturated fats makes coconut oil ideal for frying, since it is extremely stable at high temperatures. Coconut oil also has a very long shelf life (up to two years). Certified organic and proudly South African. Click here.
Products on these pages are available from www.faithful-to-nature.co.za and are suitable for vegans
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Good Life – Organic Toasted Coconut Chips
Coconut chips are great for snacking, baking or as an ingredient in granola, trail mix, and so on. These chips are made from 100% organic coconut with nothing else added. No sulfites, sugar or preservatives. Certified organic and made overseas. Click here.
Earth Products Coconut Desiccated Organic Coconut Blossom Sugar
Produced from coconut palm blossoms, coconut sugar is a great tasting, mineral rich, low-GI cane sugar alternative. It's certified organic and unrefined and has a rich toffee like flavour. Coconut sugar can be used 1:1 as a replacement for brown sugar in any recipe. Certified organic and made overseas. Click here.
Crede Milled Coconut Flour
This pure coconut flour from Crede is the gluten-free baker's best friend. Simply use it as a substitute for ordinary flour, and whip-up a range of wholesome wheat-free baked goods your family and friends will love. Made from freshly milled coconut meal, this low-GI flour is the perfect diabetic-friendly alternative to ordinary wheat flour, and it’s suitable for those with gluten intolerance. The mild coconut flavour also makes it a firm favourite with health-conscious bakers everywhere. Natural and proudly South African. Click here.
This desiccated coconut is a product of Sri Lanka. Desiccated coconut is a rich source of lauric acid – antifungal, and antimicrobial; it's also a rich source of dietary fibre. A natural product. Click here.
Kapruka Organic Virgin Coconut Oil
Kapruka Organic Virgin Coconut Oil is one of the healthiest oils you'll find on the market, thanks to its high levels of essential fatty acids and enzymes. It's a nutritious alternative to butter, margarine and ordinary cooking oil, and it has a wonderful unique taste that makes it a favourite in the kitchen. It's also a potent natural beauty treatment for the hair and skin. Certified organic and made overseas. Click here.
Cocopure Coconut Flour
Introducing a new natural and delicious alternative to wheat and grain that is full of dietary fibre, is low-GI and is a good source of protein. Cocopure flour is the finest flour, which provides fantastic health benefits and guarantees the tastiest, low in carbohydrates baked food. Contains 31% more fibre than wheat bran and three times as much as wheat flour. Certified organic and proudly South African. Click here.
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H ot
off the
P ress
SCHECKTER ORGANIC ENERGY DRINK Toby Scheckter, former racing driver and son of South African Formula One Legend Jody Scheckter, launched the world’s first organic and vegetarian certified energy drink, Scheckter’s OrganicEnergy in SA. Already available in many markets around the world, Scheckter’s international success comes from the product itself being organic, ethical, trustworthy and simply delicious. The world’s number one selling organic energy drink is now proudly Fairtrade certified too. The organic sugar used in it is sourced from small-scale Fairtrade certified farmers in the Caribbean. There are currently 93 Fairtrade certified sugar cane producers in the world representing over 40 000 small-scale farmers across 15 countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America. In addition to the Fairtrade sugar, Scheckter’s OrganicEnergy contains a mix of the finest Sicilian organic lemon, Iranian organic pomegranate and German and Austrian elderberry juices. The active caffeine ingredient is Brazilian Guarana raw green coffee bean extract and organic green tea; which give a more sustained release of energy than other energy drinks. Ginseng is finally added which helps mental performance and provides additional energy and support for the body’s immune system. Available from Woolworths, Wellness Warehouse, Kauai, Engen QuickShops and selected Pick n Pay, Spar, Shoprite, Checkers, Fruit & Veg City, Foodlover’s Market as well as other quality food retail and convenience food outlets nationwide.
Stellar Organics Well-known for its innovative approach, Stellar has achieved a number of firsts in the wine industry. It was the first organic winemaking operation in the world to gain Fair Trade certification and the first wine cellar in Africa to produce commercially viable no-sulphur-added wines. Stellar has subsequently become the largest producer of these wines in the world and is the number one organic wine brand in the UK. Through innovative techniques that Stellar Winery has perfected over the last 10 years, they are able to offer a No Sulphur Added (NSA) wine range. No sulphur is added at any stage of the NSA wine-making process. This is made possible through minimising exposure to oxygen, keeping the grapes cool, high standards of cellar hygiene and the use of good quality, healthy grapes. Not adding sulphur allows for a more natural wine, with the flavours coming through as cleaner and more transparent. It also allows for a richer red wine colour as sulphur dioxide can act as a bleach. www.stellarorganics.com.
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Audacia Wines launches world first: 'No Sulphites or Preservatives Added' Merlot made with Rooibos Wood This highly distinctive, uniquely South African wine provides those allergic to traditional preservatives used in wine with a brilliant alternative. Created using indigenous Rooibos and Honeybush woods, Audacia’s 2013 Merlot is the first of an exciting range. Audacia wine maker Michael van Niekerk (pictured), who has been instrumental in pioneering this innovation, says: 'We regard this as the launch of a totally new and unique category of wine. It allows people who are allergic to sulphur dioxide or other preservatives to enjoy a glass of wine without the normal side effects.' The wine boasts intense aromas and a bouquet of sweet cherries, fynbos, roses and Turkish delight. For more info visit www.audacia.co.za
We have 12 bottles of Audacia valued at R180 each to give away. Email here with your full name and postal address by 30 April 2014 to stand a chance to win.
12
Foraging fun at Delheim’s Wild Mushroom Hunts Join a small group of avid fungi foragers, eccentric hobbyists and amateur mycologists, when Delheim Estate sets foot in the forest for its exclusive Wild Mushroom Hunts, in search of these elusive, seasonal delicacies on 16 & 17 June, 2014. While many fungi fans remain tight-lipped about their favourite hunting spots, Delheim’s Nora Sperling-Thiel welcomes foraging fans to join her and Gary Goldman – an enthusiastic mushroom expert and cultivator who goes by the moniker 'Mushroom Guru' – for a walk on the ‘wild side’ on this legendary Stellenbosch wine estate to indulge in some mushroom magic. The hunt starts at 10.30am and tickets cost R350 per person, which include the short-course in mushroom identification. Pre-booking is essential and given the intimate nature of these events, no group bookings are allowed. For more info contact Charlotte Terblanche at Tel: 021 888 4600 or send an email to info@delheim.com.
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THE KIRSTENBOSCH TEA ROOM COOKBOOK Pamela Shippel-Granoth 978 0 6205 8897 3
The Hungry Student Vegetarian Cookbook Charlotte Pike Quercus 978 1 7820 6008 6
Never mind essays and exams – one of the biggest challenges you'll face at university is fending for yourself in the kitchen, especially if you're vegetarian. This cookbook will take you from freshers' week to graduation, all on a seriously tight budget. You'll never have to resort to a can of baked beans again. Whether you want a simple dinner, a quick lunch between lectures, exam fuel or a slap-up meal to impress your housemates, these easy-to-follow recipes are designed specially for students and include all your favourites. Enjoy veggie lasagne, bolognese, fajitas and chilli, as well as ideas for soups, casseroles, pasta bakes, jacket potatoes and homemade dips. Plus morning-after breakfasts and simple but knockout desserts and sweet treats, such as chocolate fudge brownies, sticky toffee pudding and lemon cheesecake. With photographs to show what you're aiming at, advice on equipment and stocking your cupboard (even in a tiny shared kitchen), and essential hints and tips – including how not to poison your friends – you won't want to leave home without The Hungry Student Vegetarian Cookbook.
Gluten-Free Bread: More than 100 Artisan Loaves for a Healthier Life Ellen Brown Running Press • 978 0 7624 5005 3
With the adaptation of a gluten-free diet, simple meals of toast or peanut butter and jam are suddenly far out of reach for many people. While larger grocery stores are beginning to stock gluten-free packaged breads, nothing replaces the comforting taste of home-baked bread hot from the oven. This book includes gluten-free baking techniques plus 60 all-purpose bread recipes for brioche, sandwich bread, multi-grain varieties, quick breads, and more. Gluten-free baking can have a steep learning curve for anyone who is accustomed to baking with conventional wheat flours. Author Ellen Brown has developed precise combinations of protein-packed soy and bean flours with yeasts and all-natural baking aids to recreate the familiar flavours of conventional bread. These loaves will satisfy any craving for warm home-baked bread: you’d never know they’re gluten-free.
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This new book proves that at the Kirstenbosch Tea Room Restaurant, there are no secret recipes. Rather, it shares the fun and experience of Pamela Shippel-Granoth’s 10-year Kirstenbosch Tea Room adventure, following 25 years spent over a ‘hot stove’. The recipes in this book have all become firm favourites with both the local and overseas patrons of the restaurant. The easy-to-follow, step-by-step home cooking recipes include a selection of favourites from the restaurant’s main menu as well as Shippel-Granoth’s most sought-after recipes for entertaining friends at home. This book is deliberately simple, yet practical. It is a functional souvenir of both the Tea Room Restaurant and Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden that will sit comfortably on a kitchen counter and fit easily into a suitcase. The book is well-illustrated with photographs as well as anecdotal comments from regular patrons.
The Natural Effect
How natural is your 'natural' food? Most people believe that 'natural' products are free of pesticides and genetically-engineered ingredients. And some people believe that 'natural' food is actually better for the environment than organic food. But the truth is a whole other matter. In fact, many of the products that claim to be 'natural' are filled with stuff you would never find in nature – including chemical additives, high fructose corn syrup and genetically modified organisms. It turns out that 'natural' and 'organic' mean very different things. Even though this video is a spoof, it makes a very important point and people could benefit from having this info.
VINEGAR TIPS Enjoying a salad with a tangy vinaigrette dressing is one of the most popular ways to use vinegar in the kitchen. But that’s just the beginning. Regular and flavoured vinegars are versatile recipe ingredients that add flavour and distinction, and can also contribute to good health. To make basic vinaigrette salad dressing use 1 part white distilled vinegar to 4 parts oil. Make creamy vinaigrette by adding some plain or whipped cream (or dairy alternative) to a mixture of 1 part white distilled vinegar to 3 parts oil. Tenderise meat with white distilled vinegar. Use it in marinades or when slow cooking any tough, inexpensive cuts of meat. When poaching eggs, add a little white distilled vinegar to the water. The whites stay better formed. For extra tenderness with boiling ribs or stew meat add a tablespoon of white distilled vinegar.
The power of words
Most people have heard of or seen Masaru Emoto's experiments with water where he claims that human consciousness has an effect on the molecular structure of water. But what about on food stuffs? A recent experiment in the States sure has the internet buzzing with interest. The sceptical family boiled white rice and put it into clean, glass canning jars. After tightly twisting on the lids, they labelled the jars 'love' and 'hate' in black permanent marker. Every day for two months they spoke to the jars conveying the emotion that was labelled on them. Phrases such as 'you are such pretty, white rice' and 'we are so glad you live here' to the jar labelled 'love', and in cruel, hateful voices said, 'you are ugly' and 'we don’t like you', among other harsh things, to the 'hate' jar. At the end of the two months, the 'love' rice was still fluffy and white – not a single trace of the black rot, but the mean, unkind, callous words turned the 'hate' rice into a soupy, disgusting mini-swamp. So how was the rice affected? The vibrations of their voices carried through the glass jar to the water in the rice and the rice responded. It sure is an eye-opener to just how very important our words are. A thoughtless word can linger in the memory, replayed over and over. Fortunately, so can a word of encouragement or praise. Both, the negative and the positive, take their effects and leave their marks.
To add a zesty new taste to fresh fruits such as pears, cantaloupe, honeydew, or others, add a splash of rice or balsamic vinegar. Serve immediately to prevent the fruit from becoming mushy. Freshen wilted vegetables by soaking them in cold water containing a spoonful or two of white distilled vinegar. When boiling or steaming cauliflower, beets or other vegetables, add a teaspoon or two of white distilled vinegar to the water to help them keep their colour. This will also improve their taste, and reduce gassy elements. This also works when cooking beans and bean dishes. Make pasta less sticky and reduce some of its starch. Add just a dash of white distilled vinegar to the water as it cooks. Give some extra zest to your white sauce by adding ½ teaspoon of white distilled vinegar. Remove kitchen odours that come from burnt pots or when cooking certain foods by boiling a small amount of water with ¼ cup white distilled vinegar so that the steam circulates throughout the room. Make onion odours disappear from your hands by rubbing with white distilled vinegar. For more tips visit www.vinegartips.com/Scripts/
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Garden
E
dible rhizomes, roots and tubers come from different families, however they all have one thing in common: they are subterranean
growers. The first thing to understand when growing these underground edibles is that growing fat and succulent roots is not top of the list as far as they are concerned. This is a luxury for them and only happens in ideal conditions. When faced with adverse circumstances, a plant's first priority is survival and this means devoting all its energy to respiration and increasing photosynthesis by growing leaves. Only when growing conditions are nearly perfect, will plants turn their energy away from survival and begin storing up extra carbohydrates in plump, juicy roots.
Cool weather root crops Beetroots, carrots, parsnips and radishes are the most commonly grown root vegetables in home gardens over winter. All root crops require loose, friable soil in order for the taproot to grow long and strong. If the soil is compacted or lumpy, the roots will be stumpy and misshapen. A rich soil is preferable, along with plenty of compost to provide all the elements they require. However, a soil with too much nitrogen will encourage hairy feeder roots to grow on the sides of root crops. Carrots are particularly susceptible. If you have grown a legume cover crop as a green manure, wait for about six months before planting a root crop. Avoid using fresh manure for any root crops as it can cause them to become misshapen and, with carrots especially, to fork. All of these, except beetroot, prefer being sown directly where they are to grow and don't like being transplanted. When harvesting root vegetables, cut off the top growth immediately, otherwise the leaves will continue to pull nutrients out of the root.
Beetroot Beetroot is a multiuse vegetable, great for small gardens. Baby leaves can be snipped off a few at a time for salads and larger leaves used in stir-fries. As long as enough leaves remain to feed the plant, you will still be able to harvest the root. Unlike most other root crops, beetroot doesn't mind being transplanted, provided the seedlings are small and kept moist during transplanting. They can also be directly seeded where they are to grow. You will notice that the seed looks like a clump – it is actually a seed cluster containing a few seeds. Once they germinate, they need to be thinned out. They can be left to grow in a group, provided they have enough space to spread sideways. Encourage beetroot to grow fast so the roots remain sweet and tender. They don't like dry weather and need regular moisture otherwise they can become stringy and tough. On the flip side, too much rain can also damage them. If it is too wet, lift them before they
rot, even if they are
small. They also don't like competition from weeds. Cutworms, birds, slugs and snails will all try to nibble your beetroot, especially when young, so protect them accordingly. Beetroot grows well with lettuces and most greens, as well as any members of the cabbage family. It is a good soil improver and addition to the compost, with the leaves containing high levels of magnesium and other elements.
Carrots Apart from the increased nutritional benefits, freshly pulled carrots from your garden taste far superior to anything you can buy. Carrots, more than any other root vegetables, need a soil free of any rocks or big clods of earth. A loose, sandy, loam soil is ideal. It helps carrots tremendously if you add earthworm casts to the soil. Carrots can be sown almost all year
going under S G 138
der
Some of the tastiest vegetables grow underground. But harvesting root vegetables can be a bit of a disappointment. After nurturing them and watching the above-ground sections flourish, often, all you get when you pull them up are lumpy misshapen roots – and sometimes, not even that. Jane Griffiths, author of Jane's Delicious Garden, dishes the dirt on how to grow delicious underground crops this winter.
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round, except for the hottest midsummer month
them green and makes them bitter. If this starts
and the coldest midwinter months. Make sure the
happening, gently draw the soil up over them to
surface is as smooth as possible. Carrots don't do
completely cover the shoulders. To harvest carrots,
well with weeds competing for space, so cover the
loosen the soil around the shoulders and firmly pull
entire area with weed-free seedling soil. Carrots
them up.
can be grown in rows or in groups. Mix sand with
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the seeds to help sow them evenly. Sow in shallow
Parsnips
drills, about 6-8 mm deep and cover. The seeds take
Parsnips like deep, rich, well-drained soil. If it is
longer than most seeds to germinate so don't be
too cold and moist or too hot and dry, they will
impatient if they aren't up in five days. Thin them
not germinate well. Spring and autumn are the
out, leaving enough space for each one to develop
best times for sowing. Seed them where they
into a good-sized carrot. Or leave them closer and
are to grow. Because the germination rate of
harvest some a little later as baby carrots. Short
parsnips is mediocre, use fresh seed and sow it
round varieties can be sown closer together.
relatively thickly. Make sure the seeds are pressed
A successful combination planting for carrots is
down firmly. Sowing together with radishes helps
to sow seeds of rocket and radish at the same time.
mark the rows and shades the emerging parsnip
The rocket germinates earlier and its leaves provide
seedlings. The radishes will be harvested before the
just the right amount of shade to keep the young
parsnips need the space. Thin parsnip seedlings by
carrots moist. The radishes germinate very quickly
snipping off the tops of the crowded ones. Pulling
and will be pulled and eaten by the time the carrots
the roots out will disturb the remaining plants.
need the space. When the first carrots start coming
Quick-growing lettuces and Asian greens are good
up, begin mulching with grass to prevent weeds
companions. Keep well watered throughout their
and to help keep them moist. Once the carrots
growing season. Parsnips taste best harvested
reach a certain size, they tend to start sticking
in early spring, when the stored starches begin
their shoulders up out of the ground, which turns
turning into sugar in preparation for new growth.
Harvest them before they start sprouting new
They are good companions with all members of
green growth otherwise they will lose their flavour.
the cucurbit family. They also grow well with other
Harvest parsnips by loosening the soil with a fork
brassicas, lettuces and spinach. I have read that
and lifting them, rather than pulling them
radishes are good companions because they repel
Radishes
beetles. However, in my experience they work as companions because the beetles prefer eating
If you have a gap anywhere, plant a radish. Radishes
radish foliage and the other plants are left alone.
are the easiest and quickest of all vegetables to
Beetle-nibbled radish leaves don't seem to affect
grow. From sowing to eating can take as little as
the development of the root, so it is a win-win
three weeks. Radishes are part of the brassica
combination. If left to go to seed, they produce
family and do better in the cooler months. During
edible pale pink and white flowers, which the bees
hotter months they tend to produce spongy, hot
and other beneficial insects love. Once these turn
roots. They are easily sown from seed and benefit
into seedpods, choose the fattest seeds for your
from being buried slightly below the surface: about
next planting. Radishes are good vegetables to
1-1.5 cm deep. This encourages them to grow fatter
use as a gauge for your soil and moisture. As with
roots. Thin them out so they have space to grow
all root vegetables, they only put their energy into
into a decent size. Keep them well watered and
fattening up their roots once all their requirements
harvest them as soon as they are big enough. If left
for survival have been met. If your radishes only
in the ground for too long they go woody and lose
produce thin roots, then something is lacking –
their crisp flavour. If you want regular radishes, sow
either the soil is not rich enough or they are not
seeds every week because they mature so quickly.
receiving enough sun or water.
SG
Visit Jane's Delicious Garden at www.janesdeliciousgarden.com or email Jane on info@janesdeliciousgarden.com Photographs: Jane Griffiths & Keith Knowlton. SOURCES: Jane's Delicious Garden, Sunbird Publishers, a division of Jonathan Ball Publishers.
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Endorsed by:
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www.simonsays.co.za | 5647
E co - fashion
With the world of recycling and up-cycling, there are many things we can do to lessen the load on our planet, as well as have a good conscience about how we as individuals can have a positive impact on a global level. We take a look at a items that will be turning heads in the 'eco-world' in 2014, as well as a few predictions of trends in 2014 we can look forward to from leading members of the fashion world.
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TRENDZ 143 S G
Healthy Seas
Art Becomes Fashion
Can you imagine how much trash and debris are
Australian designer Don Pezzano has turned a few
in our oceans? Every year, approximately 640 000
abandoned paintings he found on the side of a road
tons of fishing nets are abandoned in the oceans,
into sci-fi-inspired jackets. After returning to his
accounting for one-tenth of all marine litter.
studio with the paintings where he cut them down
With this in mind, a new syndicate of European
to size, Pezzano laundered the scaled-down sections
companies and NGOs have a plan in place to collect
piece by piece. Soon the inky blacks and stormy
this debris and recycle it. With the help of the
grays of the original paintings dissipated into
European Centre for Nature Conservation (ECNC),
mottled, ghost-like images. From there, Pezzano
plastics manufacturer Aquafil and sock maker Star
created four one-of-a-kind men's jackets. Pezzano
Sock have announced a new initiative that will
has appropriately named his collection 'Apparition'.
collect debris, especially fishing nets, and transform
He says, 'I like that the fabric was found and has
them into new nylon for textiles. Since 2011,
a unique history, that the jackets are one-off,
The 'Healthy Seas, a Journey from Waste to Wear'
handmade, and come with a deep sense of mystery.
initiative has already collected 16 000 tons of pre-
In a flash, I knew exactly what those canvases
and post-consumer waste and turned it into new
should be. A frenzy of washing and savage cutting
polymers and yarns. The bulk of their work though
reduced them to a pile of pieces, only to emerge a
is to physically collect and recycle the ocean debris.
week or so later as four jackets.'
To this end, Aquafil created a new product, Econyl, a nylon product from recycled plastics. Econly can be used in a variety of applications, including fibre for synthetic carpet, textiles for apparel and for injected moulded plastics. They are also identifying methods to discourage abandoning fishing equipment and encouraging responsible use. Finally the group will share their findings with governments and other organisations to encourage best practices.
'Upcycling is even better than recycling because less energy is being consumed. Tread lightly? This is zero treading. Reverse treading even.' - Don Pezzano
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Sign of the times
RAW FOR THE OCEANS
A general lack of understanding of sign language
One of the most sought-after music producers,
among people with good hearing can create
Grammy award winner Pharrell Williams, is turning
difficulties when someone needs to use signs to
his creative attention to a new enviro-friendly denim
communicate with them. The Sign Language Ring
collection. RAW for the Oceans is a collaboration
(one of the winners of the 2013 Red Dot Design
between Dutch fashion label G-Star RAW and
Award) is a translation device in the form of a
eco-thread company Bionic Yarn, where Pharrell is
bracelet with detachable rings that was created
creative director. The jeans, which will be available
by students at Asia University. When worn on the
in August, are made from yarn that consists of
fingers of the person using sign language, the
plastic litter from the ocean. Pharrell announced
rings detect and track the signing motions, which
the collaboration at New York Fashion Week, saying
are then translated to voice, which is emitted by
that he had been looking for an 'in' to fashion and
the bracelet. The user can pre-record their signing
this opportunity was the first that 'made sense'.
movements and assign the appropriate words,
He said to the Wall Street Journal that 'everyone
which allows the system to be customised to the
has jeans in their closet. Bionic Yarn is a company
user's particular gestures. Inspired by Buddhist
built around performance, and denim is the perfect
prayer beads, the system also translates voice into
category to show the world what Bionic Yarn can do.
text, which is displayed on a screen on the top of
To make RAW For The Oceans a reality, G-Star turned
the bracelet.
its entire supply chain upside down, replacing mills with extraction companies like Bionic Yarn, Parley
'My hope and expectation is 2014 will be the year that we start to see these tools and partnerships translate into impacts on the ground such as improved environmental efficiency in factories and investments that improve the lives and safety of workers in Bangladesh.'
for the Oceans and the Vortex Project, all of which actually remove plastic from the water. 'Look, I'm not a huge activist or anything,' said Pharrell of his move into fashion-ecology, 'I'm just playing my little part because I think each drops counts.'
- Jason Kibbey, Executive Director, Sustainable Apparel Coalition; Co-Founder, Pact
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THE KING IS NAKED
THE PEOPLE HAVE SPOKEN
You might be surprised to discover that though
British luxury brand Burberry has committed to rid
luxury fashion may be exclusive, hazardous
their clothes and manufacturing processes of toxic
chemicals are not. Greenpeace has revealed that it
chemicals, all thanks to people putting pressure on
doesn't matter how much you pay – these beautiful
the brand by taking to the streets and tweeting for
clothes are hiding an ugly truth. The results of
yet another people-powered victory on the runway
Greenpeace International's latest investigation show
to a toxic-free future. Thousands of people took
that many of these products are not what they
action online, or on the high streets in cities around
claim to be. While the advertising behind these
the world, calling on Burberry to commit to 'Detox'.
clothes portrays them as pristine and exclusive,
In a three-day social media storm, Greenpeace
the levels of hazardous chemicals found in many
supporters, parents and fashion fans alike sent
were no different to those found in fast fashion and
Burberry the Detox message loud and clear. First,
sportswear brands. The concentration of a certain
over 10  000 people tweeted @Burberry to stop
hazardous chemical (nonlyphonol ethoxylates or
their use of hazordous chemicals, then the brand's
NPEs) in some items labelled as 'Made in Italy' may
Facebook wall flooded with calls for them to clean
even raise the question as to whether these clothes
up their act, and, finally, Instagramers used the
were entirely manufactured in Europe. All the
platform to spell out the message to the brand in
children in the world deserve clothes that are free
pictures. At the same time, Greenpeace volunteers
of the same hazardous chemicals that can impact on
in six countries visited Burberry shops to reveal
this vulnerable group's development once released
the toxins hiding in their tartan check, and called
into the environment. The accused brands are toying
on the brand to stop using toxic chemicals in its
with our children's future by using these hazardous
clothes. All this pressure led to Burberry joining
chemicals to make our clothes and allowing the
18 other big brands which have also committed to
continued release into our rivers, lakes and seas all
'Detox' their clothes and manufacturing processes.
over the world. Creating a toxic-free future for our
These commitments are proof that when people join
children is not only urgent, it is possible.
together we can bring about real change.
'The next generation has the right to grow up with access to clean water and clothes free of hazardous chemicals, and people around the world have the power to make that a reality. 2014 will see the global movement of fashion-lovers, shoppers, and bloggers continue to grow, pressuring the industry to take the urgent steps we need to build a toxic-free future.' Ilze Smit, Detox Campaigner at Greenpeace International S G 146
could also improve the life of individuals with
'Fashion and politics have been bedfellows since textiles were first traded, but this relationship starts to take on a new form in 2014. Progressive governments like France and Canada are beginning to become more involved, introducing legislation around Extended Producer Responsibility to encourage and enforce upcycling and recycling of clothing and textile products. Companies with extended foresight will be disclosing measurable environmental impacts in preparation for future transparency requirements via the Securities and Exchange Commission, and city centres that have vibrant textile and clothing manufacturing centres will continue to work with organisations and companies to ensure that local fashion businesses and manufacturers have the necessary benefits available to thrive.' Summer Rayne Oakes, Model;
motor disabilities.S G
Author; Co-Founder of Source4style
GREAT SCOTT ! Looks like Marty McFly's self-lacing sneakers from Back to the Future II might be arriving right on schedule, at least, if Nike designer Tinker Hatfield isn't just joshing us. Speaking at a press conference in New Orleans recently, the man behind many iconic Nike shoe designs affirmed that the so-called 'power laces'. which made a memorable appearance in the '89 movie's fictional 2015 universe, could be a reality next year. 'Are we gonna see power laces in 2015? To that, I say "yes",' Hatfield was quoted by Sole Society as saying. Nike hasn't given its official word on the matter, but the futuristic kicks aren't beyond the realm of possibility. In 2009, the sportswear giant filed a patent for an 'automatic fastening system' composed of a set of straps that 'automatically (open and close) to switch between a loosened and tightened position of the upper'. Two
years
later,
Nike
auctioned
1  500 replicas of the trainers, albeit with old-fashioned manual laces. All proceeds (over R60m) benefited the Foundation for Parkinson's Research, which Michael J Fox, who portrayed McFly in the time-travel trilogy, founded after he was diagnosed with the disease. Can't wait until 2015? You can make your own less-polished version by following San Francisco-based inventor Blake Bevin's directions on Instructables. Bevin's 2010 Kickstarter campaign noted that self-lacing shoes aren't just cool for cool's sake; they
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LESS IS MORE
Adv e r t or i a l
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Levi Strauss & Co has a long history of caring – both for the communities in which they work and live, as well as for the environment. It is a strong-held belief of theirs that you make your mark in the world not just by what you do, but also how you do it. With this in mind, when you buy Levi’s clothing, you’re also buying into the progress they’re making as a company by doing more and using less. And with their 'water<less' campaign (launched in March 2012), they are striving to achieve just that: making less of an impact on the planet for the greater good of all.
T
he Water<Less collection of jeans (among other products) are made using significantly less water. In fact, the designers challenged themselves to reduce the amount of water used during the finishing process for a pair of jeans from an average of 42l right down to as little as 1.5l. With the same great styles and finishes that fans of the brand enjoy, they have used the same materials and techniques, but have simply found new ways to apply them to drive their sustainability objective – fewer wash cycles in the process and less water. In that past, Levi's added stones to washing machines full of water to achieve a certain finish. Now, with the new process, only the stones are added to the washing machines without water. The result is just as effective, but, obviously, far more efficient. Additionally, we also reduced the number of washing machine cycles by combining multiple wet cycle processes into a single wet process. Further to this, at certain factories they have also incorporated ozone processing into the washing process, which does a final clean of the fabric without a wash cycle.
Why these new techniques & collection? As a company, Levi's is working to build sustainability into everything they do by working hard to reduce the impact their products have on the planet. Of course, this collection is just one aspect of a comprehensive commitment to water leadership. Having been early leaders in water quality standards (implementing their first requirements for suppliers in 1994), their ongoing commitment to enviro-sustainability has seen them push for pioneering strategies on protecting clean water as a natural resource and focusing on reducing their overall water consumption – from the fields where cotton is grown to supplier laundries.
Photo Phillip Angert, courtesy of Levi’s Men’s Publicity
How much water is really saved? According to Levi's, the water<less products have saved 770 million litres of water. To put this number into perspective, that's roughly 308 Olympic-size swimming pools, three billion glasses of water and 25 million average-length showers. Due to the nature of the water<less process, there's no way of really providing an average water savings per jean number they can provide. This is because each product, depending on style and finish, has a different water savings. But, overall, this innovative new collection reduces the water consumption by an average of 28% and up to 96% for some new products in the line.
How can consumers help make a difference? Your laundry habits can also make a huge difference on the environment. On average, almost 60% of the climate impact comes during the consumer-use phase. There are a few things we can do to help, such as washing our clothes in cold water, line drying – rather than machine drying, and donating our clothes when they are no longer needed. It’s also important to wash clothes less regularly. In fact, if you wash your jeans once every two weeks, instead of once a week, you could save up to 21.6l of water.
8 BOTTLES – 1 JEAN Another one of Levi’s initiatives is called 'Waste<Less', and these jeans are the result of their latest design innovation. Each piece features a minimum of 20% post-consumer recycled content, from an average of eight plastic PET bottles. It is an embodiment of the company's sustainability ethos to design with greater impact awareness.
Made of progress Levi's are striving to leverage their iconic brands to drive positive, sustainable change and profitable business results. By making products that have greater shelf-life, they’ve taken a serious approach to sustainability by building on 140-year legacy with a scientific approach to making their products' life cycle even more sustainable. Ultimately, it takes more than one company to make a difference. By sharing these approaches with other companies – and vice versa – they can work together to move the industry forward while reducing their impact on the planet. Through collaboration and co-operation with governments, NGOs, suppliers and even competitors, people everywhere can benefit. And that is what true progress is all about.
For more info click here.
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your green tv show guide The must-see shows for all things green, organic & healthy on the home front. MARCH-MAY 2014 Property Virgins Mon 11.30am • Tues 3.30pm • Thurs 7.30pm • Fri 10pm • Sat
Dinner Dash With Hilary Biller (Local)
1pm & 9pm • Sun 8am & 5pm
Mon 10am • Tues 2pm • Thurs 6pm, • Fri 11pm • Sat 7.30am &
Location? Budget? Lifestyle? These are just some of the tough questions facing first-time homebuyers as they prepare to plunge into the real estate market. There’s plenty of action – and lots of expert advice – as these Property Virgins dive in headfirst.
4pm • Sun 11.30am & 6pm
Colin & Justin's Home Heist
Live Here Buy This
Mon 9pm • Tues 9am • Wed 1pm • Thurs 5pm
Mon 3.30pm • Wed 7.30pm • Thurs 10pm • Fri 11.30am • Sat 2pm
Britain’s most outrageous decorating duo are back with Season II of their mission to overhaul Canada’s tackiest interiors. They hijack hideous houses and put the tasteless owners under house arrest until they atone for their sins by redecorating to Colin and Justin's new design.
& 10pm • Sun 9am & 7pm
There’s no need to spend hours in the kitchen after a busy day. With the right mix of store-cupboard ingredients, and a little bit of imagination, Sunday Times food editor, Hilary Biller will you how to get dinner on the table in no time.
What if you up and sold everything? Where could you afford to live and how? Live Here, Buy This tantalises homeowners with enviable properties around the world that match the cost of their current home.
My House Your House Mon 12pm • Tues 4pm • Thurs 8om • Fri 8am
The kids have grown up and want a house. The parents hold the purse strings. But they can’t agree on the perfect home. With house prices skyrocketing more buyers are flocking to the bank of mom and dad. But everybody knows mixing family and finances can be a recipe for disaster.
MY DREAM HOME
Design Superheroes Mon 7.30pm • Tues 10pm • Wed 11.30am • Thurs 3.30pm
While design alone won’t ‘save the world’, it can certainly solve problems, enhance life and even create new opportunities and possibilities. Design Superheroes takes an in-depth look into the wide-ranging impact that design has on everyday life.
Dear Genevieve Tues 7.30pm • Wed 10pm • Thurs 11.30am • Fri 3.30pm • Sat 2.30pm & 10.30pm • Sun 9.30am & 7.30pm
Home designer Genevieve Gorder comes to the rescue of homeowners stuck in a design rut. Genevieve provides the answers with creative solutions and design ideas, she will help homeowners fall back in love with their home!
Martha Stewart's Cooking School Tues 6pm • Wed 11pm • Thurs 10am, Fri 2pm • Sat 8am
martha stewart's cooking school
• Sun 12pm
From boiling an egg to baking a fool-proof soufflé, Martha will arm you with the essential tips and techniques every cook should know. Whether it’s roasting or poaching, braising or blanching – you’ll learn the skills to tackle every recipe with confidence.
My Dream Home Tues 8pm • Wed 8am • Thurs 12pm • Fri 4pm • Sat 3pm • Sun 8pm
Drew Scott is the handsome estate agent who tracks down hidden gems with potential. His twin brother Jonathan is the handy contractor who transforms the fixer-uppers into the ultimate budget-friendly dream home.
dinner dash with hilary biller
The Gardener (Local) Tues 9pm • Tues 9am • Wed 1pm, Thurs 5pm • Sat 10am
the gardener
& 7pm • Sun 3pm & 10pm
SA's favourite gardener Tanya Visser is back again. This practical and informative gardening show will inspire you to get creative in your garden with easy-to-do projects. From containers and hanging baskets to sowing seeds and dividing perennials to replant for spring, Tanya has the know-how to get it just right.
Extract taken from On Safari by Nadine Clarke, published by Struik Nature, an imprint of Random House Struik
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153 S G For info or to purchase visit www.randomstruik.co.za. Also visit www.getbushwise.com, or visit the 'Get Bushwise' facebook page
Extract taken from On Safari by Nadine Clarke, published by Struik Nature, an imprint of Random House Struik
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155 S G For info or to purchase visit www.randomstruik.co.za. Also visit www.getbushwise.com, or visit the 'Get Bushwise' facebook page
Extract taken from On Safari by Nadine Clarke, published by Struik Nature, an imprint of Random House Struik
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157 S G For info or to purchase visit www.randomstruik.co.za. Also visit www.getbushwise.com, or visit the 'Get Bushwise' facebook page
F amily
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Being a
Photo JoJo Tanks
Waterwise Family Freshwater is soon going to be the single most sought after commodity on Earth. Experts predict that by 2050, a third of the people on Earth may lack a clean, secure source of freshwater, and SA will be no exception. How did this happen? The amount of moisture on Earth has not changed; the water the dinosaurs drank millions of years ago is the same water that falls as rain today. But the thing is, our planet has become more crowded, and a privileged minority abuses this limited resource to the detriment of all. Petra Vandecasteele, editor of Kids of Nature, looks at why, these days, water is playing such a crucial role in our decision-making when moving houses.
W
most
ater covers two-thirds of the Earth's surface, but only 2.5% of this is freshwater of which
remains
inaccessible,
and
the
majority of what is available goes into the controversies of agriculture. So, our first concern when looking for a new home is long-term access to water. We wouldn't want to find ourselves in an area that faces drought in a decade or two. Nor would we want the property to be flooded. The next step is to gear our home towards sustainable practices, because abundance shouldn't equate liberal use. My
children
and
I
love
natural
swimming ponds. Yes, I mean 'pond'. As it appears, we're not the only ones crazy about them, and swimming ponds are in high demand, understandably. They're beautifully integrated in the landscaping of the garden and these delightful ponds are not only an absolute pleasure for the eye and the soul, they're functional wetlands in their own right. It's all about balance and working with nature, and a healthy pond doesn't require any chemicals, nor maintenance other than cutting the odd dead leaf and chasing the herons away from the koi. Leisure aside, I'd like to find a property
159 S G
All too often we buy to ease our conscience and conveniently choose not to know what's involved in the process. And as long as we keep on doing this, green means no more than effective marketing. in a water-rich location, but most importantly, how can we design our home in a way that is sustainable? In the end, it's not just about me. The Earth is (very nearly) a closed-circuit and too often we underestimate the interrelatedness of the land and the people who live on it. Sustainability doesn't stop with me, it starts with me. Whatever I do has an impact on people I may not even know, today and all the days hereafter. And vice versa. I want to leave a beautiful legacy for my grandchildren and the generations to come. I want future generations to be able to look back with a smile on my turtle steps that contributed to save their bountiful world. I wouldn't want to be co-responsible for stealing the birthright of future generations to nature, and more specifically, freshwater. I want to be part of the solution, not the problem. And so, I decide to have a critical look at our current property and take stock of the pros and cons in terms of water management:
In the garden The solar panels that heat the swimming pool are a great energy-saver, but contribute to increased evaporation of the water. Also, the view from the overflow is awesome, but exposes the pool to the wind, causing more loss of water. Landscaping is appropriate for our climate, using waterwise indigenous plants and grasses that are best suited to natural rainfall. Control of alien plants that suck our garden dry. Sprinklers and irrigation by droplet in summer to water the plants in the patio and closest to
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Photo Petra Vandecasteele
Photo www.PaulGodard.com
the house. Done after sunset and before sunrise
I also feel strongly about looking beyond the
(coolest times to avoid evaporation) for a
green outcome of a new product or appliance.
maximum of 10 minutes each. No irrigation on
Shouldn't we be a little more critical and check what's
windy and rainy days.
involved in the actual manufacturing process? At the
Leaks are immediately repaired.
end of the day, how green is my green solution?
Gutters catch rainwater (poured into a Jojo
I find it difficult to make the right choices in this
tank): one to top-up the swimming pool, the
complex world of sustainability. All too often we
other to harvest drinking water.
buy to ease our conscience and conveniently choose not to know what's involved in the process. And
In the house
as long as we keep on doing this, green means no
Installation of low-flow shower heads and faucet
more than effective marketing. So, for our next home, I definitely want a
aerators on all taps. Toilets are 'home-made' low-volume (block
swimming pond rather than a swimming pool. I also
the floater halfway or put a brick in the water
want to know more about the latest innovations in
container) and we mostly flush only halfway
composting toilets and, depending on where we
through.
will live, investigate fog harvesting as an alternative
Leaks are immediately repaired.
source of potable water. We'll be growing our
Dishwasher and washing machine are energy-
own vegetables, so I'd like to learn more about
and water-efficient.
enhancing soil properties for moisture retention. And, the other thing we haven't investigated yet is
But there is no doubt that we can do better. I want to hear what experts have to say on new
waste water management. One turtle step at a time is all it takes to become a waterwise family.
SG
technologies and I want to learn from other people's experiences. Ignorance is bliss, but not when it comes to water.
For more info see ad below.
EASY & TIME-SAVING COOL TIPS for FAMILIES family travel! things-2-do!! lifestyle ! nutrition! health! parenting ! art-in-nature! reviews
www.kidsofnature.com
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Garden
ď ź
Did you know? To a chameleon a large lawn is like a desert, without food, protective cover or perches, that they have to cross.
ď ź
www.jordanwines.com
Nurturing chame nourishing hon in your S G 162
The survival of chameleons is at risk because we have invaded their habitat and changed it and broken it up with our houses, roads, factories and farms.
eleons & neybees r garden
At this year's Botanical Society Kirstenbosch Plant Fair â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12 & 13 April 2014, Cape Town â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the focus is on making your garden bee- and chameleon-friendly, and growing plants that will attract and feed them. The Plant Fair has had a comprehensive makeover and gardeners will be choosing from a limited range of specially selected plants from Kirstenbosch, as well as from a wide range of indigenous plants offered by many other growers who will be exhibiting their wares, under their own banner, for the very first time. The catalogue has metamorphosed into an indigenous gardening handbook that will help gardeners pick out the plants best suited to their gardens. Alice Notten reports. 163 S G
I
n the greater Cape Town area there are three species of chameleon to be found, the most common being the Cape dwarf chameleon
(Bradypodion pumilum). The survival of chameleons is at risk because we have invaded their habitat and changed it and broken it up with our houses, roads, factories and farms. Gardeners can help chameleons by turning their gardens into suitable
If you can persuade enough of your neighbours to go chameleon friendly too, you can create a series of linked gardens giving them enough of a habitat to maintain a healthy wild population.
habitats to sustain them. Chameleons need a fairly large area in which to roam, which is a problem if yours is the only chameleon-friendly garden in
and Cape stock-rose (Sparrmannia africana). Bad
the neighbourhood. However, if you can persuade
news is that the lawn will have to go, or be
enough of your neighbours to go chameleon-friendly
drastically reduced â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but that's actually good news
too, you can create a series of linked gardens giving
for your water bill. To a chameleon a large lawn
them enough of a habitat to maintain a healthy wild
is like a desert, without food, protective cover or
population. (Please note that indigenous chameleons
perches, that they have to cross. Replace it with
are protected and buying or selling them, or keeping
more garden beds or groundcovers and low-growing
them as pets, is illegal.)
shrubs such as the lilac carpet geranium (Geranium multisectum), wild violet (Monopsis unidentata) and
How to create a chameleon-friendly garden Vegetation
Food The final vital ingredient is food. Chameleons eat small insects, including flies, fruitflies, moths, butterflies and small grasshoppers. This means that to provide food for chameleons you have to
Chameleons need good vegetation cover and a mix
make your garden friendly to insects too. Stop
of plants of different sizes to provide perches for
using insecticides and allow your garden to achieve
juveniles and adults. Small shrubs with thin branches,
a natural balance between predators and prey. Lay
like the Kluitjieskraal false buchu (Agathosma ovata),
down biodegradable mulch, such as woodchips,
the Tygerberg spiderhead (Serruria aemula var
leaves, or partially decomposed compost, and keep
congesta), the ninepin heath (Erica mammosa), the
a compost heap, both of which provide food and
pink sage bush (Ocimum labiatum, until recently
breeding places for insects. Also grow indigenous
known as Orthosiphon amabilis) or restios such
plants that have flowers or fruits that attract insects.
as the Namaqua thatching reed (Thamnochortus
By making these changes, in addition to providing a
bachmannii) will provide small perches for the
home and food for chameleons, you are increasing
youngsters. Larger shrubs such as the box-leaf
local biodiversity, and aiding beneficial insects, such
phylica (Phylica buxifolia), golden pagoda (Mimetes
as honeybees, by providing them with food.
chrysanthus) and dune crowberry (Searsia crenata,
no undergrowth or low-hanging branches is not
Plants to feed honeybees in the garden
good for chameleons. Overcome this problem by
Honeybees are also facing threats to their survival.
thinning the trees and planting an understorey of
The amount of land available to them to forage for
shade-loving perennials and shrubs, such as the
pollen and nectar is continually reducing, mainly
silver spurflower (Plectranthus oertendahlii), cwebe
due to the expansion of cities and towns, with the
asparagus fern, (Asparagus densiflorus, or cwebe),
result that they cannot find enough food to sustain
fireball lily (Scadoxus multiflorus ssp katharinae)
their colonies. Bees are also attacked by pests and
until recently known as Rhus crenata) will provide more sturdy perches for the bigger chameleons. A garden with many large or mature trees with
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Tyson's euryops (Euryops tysonii).
www.richtersveldtours.com
http://alphacoders.com
What you're looking to create is an indigenous and biodiverse environment attractive to chameleons and honey bees
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It's so simple that all you need do is introduce plants with flowers into your garden that are rich in nectar and/or pollen that provide food for honeybees
Bees visit and feed on a wide variety of flowers, so there are hundreds of plants to choose from. Next time you walk through Kirstenbosch, or on the mountain, take note of which flowers they visit and add them to your garden.
Food Bees love most buchus (Agathosma species), and they feed on many Cape heaths (Erica species). Many members of the protea family are excellent bee plants, particularly the spiderheads such as (Serruria aemula), golden pagoda (Mimetes chrysanthus) and conebushes, such as the spicy conebush (Leucadendron tinctum), as well as most proteas
diseases, and killed by pesticides. Honeybees are pollinators of thousands of wild plants, as well as many of our food crops. Without them, many indigenous plants would be unable to set seed and survive into the next generation, and we'd have to go without many fruits, nuts and vegetables â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and, of course, there would be no honey.
(Protea
spp)
and
pincushions
(Leucospermum
species). Restios, such as the thatching reeds (Thamnochortus spp), are wind pollinated and the male flowerheads produce masses of pollen that is busily collected by the bees. Bees also feed on the flowers of asparagus species, white ironwood (Vepris lanceolata), sour fig (Carpobrotus deliciosus) and many vygies (Lampranthus, Drosanthemum,
Vegetation
Ruschia), many daisies including dune daisy (Felicia
Gardeners can help honeybees by planting more
the list goes on and will be available at the Fair (see
plants with flowers rich in nectar and/or pollen
below for more info).
echinata), silver lace-leaf ursinia (Ursinia sericea) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SG
that provide food for them. Bees visit and feed on a wide variety of flowers, so there are hundreds of plants to choose from. Next time you walk through Kirstenbosch, or on the mountain, take note of which flowers they visit and add them to your garden. Also
References and further reading: PlantZAfrica http://krystaltolley.wix.com/krystaltolley www.sanbi.org/programmes/conservation/pollination-andhoneybees
try to choose plants that flower at different times to spread the availability of food throughout the year.
The Botanical Society Kirstenbosch Plant Fair This popular event on the Cape Town calendar is primarily a fund raiser for the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Food, entertainment and a program of not-to-be-missed talks and demonstrations will be on offer. One of the aims of the fair is to promote the conservation of indigenous plants through horticulture. Conservation and education will feature prominently: in addition to the demo garden, workshops and talks will be run throughout the event and it will have a variety of enviro-friendly garden-related products on sale. It promises to be a wonderful family outing with a strong green theme.
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â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Water Wise Gardeningâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Contact us Website Water Wise Gardening
Water Wise gardening is not only great for the environment and water conservation, it is kind on your pocket too: using less water means spending less money on water.
There are eight basic Water Wise principles to follow: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Grow water wise plants, specifically those that are naturally drought-tolerant. Follow the natural rainfall patterns of your area when designing your garden or adding new plants. Group plants according to their water requirements i.e. hydrozoning. Improve the quality and water-holding capacity of your soil by adding compost to it. Use mulch over the soil in your garden to prevent excessive water loss from the soil. Reduce the amount of lawn in your garden by using low water use ground cover and permeable paving instead. Water your garden correctly, namely during the cooler parts of the day and according to the soil type and plant needs. Capture and re-use rainwater in your garden where possible to reduce the amount of tap water required.
Water Wise indigenous gardens are also attractive to birds and bees, increasing biodiversity in your area. For more, visit www.plantzafrica.co.za.
For more information on Water Wise gardening, please visit www.randwater.co.za and click on the Water Wise logo or contact us on 0860 10 10 60. 167 S G
N ews Light-producing plants Taking a cue from fireflies, scientists have created the world's first light-producing plant. Bioglow's autoluminscent plant, the Starlight Avatar, glows in the dark and could usher in a new era of living lights â&#x20AC;&#x201C; engineered to produce its own light. Missouri-based Bioglow has been working on light-producing plants for a number of years. Starlight Avatar is an auto luminescent plant that generates light through its own pathways and does not require UV light or chemical additives. The plant was made by taking an ornamental Nicotiana alata plant and introducing the light-emitting pathway from marine bacteria into its chloroplast genome. The modified plant then glows a soft blue-green in the dark, although not bright enough to read by. Bioglow foresee a time when the plants are used as decorative landscaping that could eliminate the need for night-time lighting and decrease electricity use. The plants will come in their own cultivation boxes and are expected to produce light through their life-span, which lasts about from two to three months.
Staquaponics 'Urban Farming is a growing trend, and with people now more worried about the produce they consume, the ability to grow your own non-GMO organic vegetables in a viable way has become more attractive for people. Living in an urban area leaves limited space for people to utilise, so my idea of creating a modular and stackable system was born,' says Steve Cordova about his new creation: a small, self-contained fish tank and aquaponic planter with the hopes that it will get people interested in urban farming and growing their own produce. For the
The Kirstenbosch Boomslang To mark the centenary of Kirstenbosch in 2013, a raised walkway is being built through the Arboretum, which is nestled between the Protea Garden, Cycad Amphitheatre, the Dell, Mathews Rockery and the Concert Lawn. Inspired by a snake skeleton, it is a low-maintenance, low-impact sculptural walkway that goes up and through the complex collection of trees that make up the Arboretum. This raised walkway will give visitors a unique opportunity to experience through and above the canopy, giving spectacular 360° vistas of Table Mountain, Garden and Cape Flats. If all goes well it should be finished mid-April 2014. Follow Kirstenbosch on Facebook for progress reports.
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full story on this neat little design click here.
U rban
garden
As a futurist and environmental writer, when Carole Knight wrote her book Miracles of Hope: Surviving and Thriving in the 21st Century, she put forward the hypothesis that there could come a time when the mega cities of the world expand into an ecumenopolis â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a continuous urban sprawl of buildings, factories, roads, highways, malls and parking lots stretching from north to south and east to west, covering the habitable land surface of the globe in its entirety. With the human population expected to increase to 8.4bn people by 2030, 9.5bn by 2050, and 11bn by the end of the century, this hypothesis is by no means far-fetched. She explains.
GROWING4LIFE 169 S G
E
very year we are adding 80 million people to the planet, which is the equivalent of 10 New York cities and by 2030, 50% more energy
and food and 30% more water will be needed. Urban growth and the number of mega cities will rise exponentially and by 2050 it is believed that two-thirds of the world's people will be living in urban areas with most of the increased population being absorbed by the less developed regions of the world â&#x20AC;&#x201C; that is Asia and Africa. With 62% of this future urban growth expected to be slums, life for most of the world's people will be a daily struggle for survival. By the end of this century, which is within the lifetime of our youngest generations, the planet will
Pat Featherstone, the founder and driving force
have changed beyond recognition. Urban density
behind Soil for Life, has a vision of Africa as a 'green
will have a horrendously deleterious effect on the
continent'. In other words, a continent where food
world's people and, because tomorrow's children
gardens abound and Africa's people grow enough to
will in all probability be completely disconnected
feed themselves through enviro-sound technologies
from anything natural or wild, theirs will be an
that are learnt and, in turn, passed onto others in a
extinction of experience.
'mushrooming effect'.
More worrying, however, is how the world will
Certainly, I found a day in the field with Soil for
feed itself as we are currently appropriating 40%
Life Senior Trainer, Sandi Lewis, to be a wonderfully
of Net Primary Production (NPP) on land and within
inspirational experience as I met people who are
60 years this figure could rise to as much as 80%,
working to improve their lives by taking control
which means there will be little space for the plants
of food security for themselves, their children and
that produce food.
others around them.
According to the UN FAO, already some 870
Suelyla Dya lives in a small shack in a sandy,
million people are going hungry despite the world
windswept and impoverished corner of the Cape
producing enough food to feed everyone. If we are
Flats. It is an area beset by apathy, unemployment
to avoid even wider-spread hunger in the future,
and substance abuse, yet, within this unpromising
every factor that relates to food security will require
environment, Suelyla has created a small miracle.
our utmost attention. Ultimately, however, the
From a tiny garden around the perimeter of her
global war on hunger will be waged in our hearts
home she grows enough vegetables for the needs
and minds, through our intentions and attitudes
of herself, her husband and their five children,
and the questions we ask and answer.
whose ages range from 19 to a year. With the eggs
Sam Bickersteth, Chief Executive of the Climate
provided by the family's chickens, she says they are
& Development Knowledge Network, has said: 'The
self-sufficient, food wise. She is also proud of the
world faces a serious challenge: how to produce
fact that everyone in her family is in good health.
more, nutritious food for a growing population, in a
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Suelyla
is
an
example
of
the
power
of
changing climate, with least enviro-impact.' Soil for
resourcefulness as a countermeasure to adversity,
Life, a NPO based in the Western Cape, may have an
growing her crops of brinjals, spinach, broccoli,
answer, as by teaching people to grow healthy food
beetroot, carrots, tomatoes and other veggies in
in a cheap and sustainable manner, the organisation
the most imaginative of containers. With her eagle
enables them to establish their own productive
eye for what others consider to be junk, she has
home gardens and food growing enterprises, using
assembled an astounding assortment of containers
whatever means are at their disposal and any
that include an old computer case, the drum of
available space, no matter how small.
a washing machine, paint tins, a vacuum cleaner
There is no doubt that addressing future global food insecurity will require a monumental effort and a multitudinous approach. In the meantime, by just getting back to the basics of caring for the soil and growing the plants that feed us, it is possible for each of us to take matters into our own hands, ensuring that we have at least a measure of food security.
drum and an old bath. With this little garden and her boundless enthusiasm, Suelyla was awarded second place in
model of peace, order and nurturance. For gardener, Levona Kleinsmith, it is a place for 'sharing love'; however it has a more prosaic function.
a Soil for Life gardener of the year competition in
As a fully-functioning nursery, the Levana Food
2013, winning a washing machine for her efforts.
Gardening Enterprise serves as a resource centre,
She also won a microwave oven in 2012 for the best
providing seedlings and compost to the many home
container garden of the year.
gardeners in and around its surrounding areas of
Soil for Life fieldworkers consider Charles Mathlay
Lavender Hill, Seawinds, Steenberg and Retreat. It
to be a 'Green Hero' as he has single-handedly
also generates income through the sale of produce
turned what was essentially a desert into his own
to parents of pupils at the Levana Primary School as
little oasis. It is easy to pick Charles's house out
well as to the teachers.
from others that neighbour it as the flower-beds on
Gardeners, Michael and Hilda Parsons-Abrahams,
his carefully manicured pavement lawn advertise
at the Mandolin Retirement Village in Steenberg are
his home as being his pride and joy, his own
yet another example of people who are able to
'Kirstenbosch' as he calls his little patch of heaven.
take sustenance from the smallest space and most
On the day I visited Charles, a car stopped
limited resources. Theirs is a combined effort with
outside his house and the driver hooted and gave
Michael digging in the vegetable garden, which he
him a thumbs-up in admiration for his beautiful
says keeps him fit and which he finds therapeutic,
garden, which is in stark contrast to an empty piece
while Hilda 'harvests'. The vegetables they grow
of land across the road that has become a smelly
are sufficient for their needs and often they have
and unsightly dump for the community's rubbish.
enough left over to share with other residents of the
Charles has a hard-lived look about him and
retirement village.
his weather-beaten face tells of a life that has
There is no doubt that addressing future global
been anything but easy, but when he starts to talk
food insecurity will require a monumental effort
about his compost heap or plans for his garden he
and a multitudinous approach. In the meantime, by
waxes lyrical. It is also possible to see the poetry
just getting back to the basics of caring for the soil
in his soul in his choice of quirky containers and
and growing the plants that feed us, it is possible
miniature container gardens. Like Suelyla, Charles
for each of us to take matters into our own hands,
grows enough vegetables to feed himself and he
ensuring that we have at least a measure of food
'sometimes even has kale, spinach or cabbage over
security. This could be vital for survival in the time
to sell to foreigners', as he proudly told me.
ahead.
SG
With fencing topped with razor-wire telling the story of rampant crime in the area, the Food
For more info visit www.soilforlife.co.za and
Gardening Enterprise at Levana Primary School is a
www.caroleknight.co.za.
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CLARIFYINGPLASTICS
Cycle
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Plastics|SA, the mouthpiece and umbrella body representing the South African plastics industry, together with the South African Plastics Recycling Organisation (SAPRO), have clarified their position on degradable, bio- and oxo-degradable plastics. We take a look.
A
ccording to the official position paper on this topic, Plastic|SA's Executive Director, Anton Hanekom says they welcome and
support any innovations that enable plastic products to meet the required high quality performance standards. 'However, a lot of confusion still exists around the enviro-claims made by the manufacturers of degradable plastics. The general perception is that degradable plastics will dissolve and disappear over time versus conventional plastics that will be around forever. Unfortunately, it is not that simple,' Hanekom says.
Seeing the wood from the trees Plastics|SA stresses the importance of understanding that bio-based plastics are not always biodegradable and that biodegradable plastics are not always bio-based. 'It is possible to make biodegradable polymers from fossil raw materials. It is essential to
make
this
distinction
in
order
to
avoid
confusion when addressing different societal and enviro-concerns of bioplastics. It is also essential that those who use the additives consider the sustainability implications of these additives on the recyclability of plastics,' Hanekom warns.
What's in a name? The general term 'bioplastics' is wrongly used to describe different concepts, which often leads to
'One of the challenges faced by the plastics recycling sector over the past decade has been that of building confidence in recycled material and demonstrating its ability to perform as a viable alternative to virgin plastics. We have worked very hard to address these concerns by improving the quality and standards of recycled plastic material. Today, recycled plastics are in huge demand in SA and recyclers cannot produce enough material to meet the demand. Recycled plastic is finally enjoying the recognition it deserves and is seen as a top-quality material that is a consistent and reliable raw material source.' plants or living organisms. Not all biodegradable materials meet compostable criteria. 'Materials which do not fulfil these criteria
confusion. The biodegradability and compostability
may
of material properties are regulated by international
enviro-conditions. To ensure that waste treatment
still
be
biodegradable
under
specific
standards. Plastics|SA and SAPRO say they distinguish
facilities work properly, only plastic waste which is
between the following:
compliant with the standards and requirements of
Biodegradable plastics are degradable
the respective facility enters composting streams,'
due to the action of micro-organisms and
Hanekom explains.
enzymes. The aerobic or anaerobic decay of
Bio-based plastics are plastics derived entirely
biodegradable plastics by micro-organisms is
or partially from renewable resources, such
the conversion of the organic matter into carbon
as vegetable fats and oils, corn or starch.
dioxide (or methane), mineral salts and water
Fossil-fuel plastics are derived from petroleum.
under specific enviro-conditions, either through
The use of renewable resources as feedstock in
processes in nature or man-made (degradation
the production of bio-based materials is seen as
in industrial composting plants, anaerobic
a way of educating the dependency on oil.
digestion plants, and the like).
Explains Hanekom: 'Bio-based plastics made
Compostable plastics are degradable due to a
from renewable resources can be used in a variety
biological process occurring during composting
of applications and complement currently-used
and are converted into carbon dioxide, water,
fossil-based products. Bio-based plastics can offer
mineral salts and biomass. There are no toxic
similar, additional or even better functionality
side-effects like toxic residue in water, soil,
depending on their composition.'
173 S G
Making the case for plastics
recycling sector, is the impact degradable materials
While it agrees that there are certain uses and applications that could potentially be ideally suited to degradable plastics, Plastics|SA warns that by introducing bio-plastics to the country's burgeoning and
well-developed
recycling
industry
would
contaminate the recycling streams with disastrous and costly consequences. 'Plastics don't litter, people do. Biodegradable plastic should not be seen as a quick-fix solution to our country's litter problem. Instead, we are calling for more money and resources to be spent on educating the public about recycling and putting proper recycling infrastructures in place to support the plastics recycling industry which has in recent years become an integral part of SA's economy. Last year alone, 264 758 tons of plastic were collected and recycled, providing formal jobs to 5 047 people and informal employment to more than 44 000 people,' Hanekom explains. Of real concern to the plastics industry and its
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will have once this plastic is recycled and used in second and successive applications. 'As an industry, our concern is what will happen when the polymer molecules used in degradable, biodegradable and oxo-biodegradable plastics break down during the expected service life? Recycled plastic waste is used to make many new long-term plastic products such as refuse bags, agricultural and building products (such as water pipes, builder's film, fencing and decking), as well as carpeting, to geo-textiles, strapping, plastic timber – all products that are made to last for many years to come. Introducing biodegradable plastics that are meant to decompose after a certain amount of time would have disastrous consequences if introduced into the recycling stream,' Hanekom explains. A second major concern about degradable, biodegradable and oxo-biodegradable packaging, is that the products are composed of non-renewable fossil fuel-based inputs and there is little difference
in regards to energy and resource usage when
is seen as a top quality material that is a consistent
compared to conventional disposable packaging.
and reliable raw material source.'
If biodegradable and oxo-biodegradable packaging
Plastics|SA and SAPRO recommend that any
are meant to break down in a landfill environment,
product's enviro-impact should be measured against
the products will not be recovered through waste
comprehensive Life Cycle Assessments together
management and recycling initiatives, resulting in
with costs evaluations. As such, it is not correct
a loss of resources (the energy embedded in, for
to assume that oxo-biodegradable or bio-based
example, plastics) in the same way these resources
plastics have by definition a lower enviro-impact.
are lost if they are not recycled.
It is crucial that any enviro-claims are backed by sound science and standards. All enviro-claims such
Looking ahead
as biodegradability, compostability or the bio-based
Plastics|SA is committed to achieving its objective
content are in compliance with appropriate standards
of sending 'zero plastic to landfill', as determined
such as ISOâ&#x20AC;&#x2030;14021.
by the Waste Management Act. In line with this
It must be emphasised that market requirements
objective, the association and its members therefore
will remain a determining factor in choosing the
recommend that oxo-biodegradable products are
plastic grade with the desired property profile.
not used as packaging alternatives to traditional
The choice is therefore directly related to the
plastic, as these would contaminate the recycling
functionality and not to the raw material base of the
waste stream and reduce the value and recycling
plastic which can be either fossil or bio-based.
rates of plastic. If, however, further scientific
Plastics|SA seeks to build confidence in the
evidence shows that there are other benefits to the
technical integrity of recycled material that is
use of oxo-biodegradable products, Plastics|SA will
able to demonstrate its ability to perform as a
reconsider its position.
viable alternative to virgin plastics. If a proportion
'One of the challenges faced by the plastics
of recycled plastic contains oxo-biodegradable
recycling sector over the past decade has been
material, it could change the characteristics of the
that of building confidence in recycled
material and may lead to a failure of products as
material and demonstrating its ability
degradation occurs, resulting in the hindering of
to perform as a viable alternative to
market acceptance which will lead to reduced value
virgin plastics. We have worked very hard to address these concerns by improving the quality and
of recycled material in SA.
Conclusion
standards of recycled plastic
'As a result of insufficient or incorrect information,
material.
recycled
consumers often base their decisions on foreign,
plastics are in huge demand
poorly researched or emotional articles. Each
in SA and recyclers cannot
country needs to find its own unique solutions
produce enough material to
to litter, municipal solid waste and poor human
meet the demand. Recycled
behaviour,' Hanekom concluded.
Today,
plastic is finally enjoying the recognition it deserves and
For more info: www.plasticsinfo.co.za
It is crucial that any enviro-claims are backed by sound science and standards. All enviro-claims such as biodegradability, compostability or the bio-based content are in compliance with appropriate standards
175 S G
Shelf E ditor ' s C hoice green is the new red: An Insider's Account of a Social Movement Under Siege Will Potter City Light Books • 978 0 8728 6538 9 Will Potter is an award-winning independent journalist based in Washington, DC who focuses on 'eco-terrorism', the environmental and animal rights movements, as well as civil liberties post-9/11. In this, his second book, he discusses the modern era as a time when everyone is going green and most people are unaware that the FBI is using anti-terrorism resources to target environmentalists. The book, although set in the fictional world of the main character Daniel McGowan, is a guided tour into an underground world of radical activism and an introduction to the shadowy figures behind the headlines, but it is also the story of how everyday people are prevented from speaking up for what they believe in. Much like the 'Red Scare' in the early to mid-1900s, this 'Green Scare' is about fear and intimidation, and Potter outlines the political, legal and public relations strategies that threaten even acts of non-violent civil disobedience with the label of 'eco-terrorism'.
the big list of things that suck: An Essential Encyclopedia of Eco-Information to Help You Shop, Talk & Live Better, Without Annoying All Your Friends Rachel Lincoln Sarnoff CreateSpace • 978 1 4936 7851 8 For author Rachel Sarnoff, it all started out as a short list of factoids that she kept for her own reference while writing articles about eco-focused fashion, beauty, parenting and lifestyle. She then broadened her research and discovered things such as the amount of pesticides that go into conventional cotton production, why hemp shirts might just save the world and how to figure out if your moisturiser can cause cancer. It was only after she started adding in a few of her own tidbits (such as 'sustainabully' – a person who makes others feel guilty for perceived eco-sins) that this book was given life. This is a hip, humourous encyclopedia of essential eco-information that is as entertaining as it is empowering.
sacred species & sites: Advances in Biocultural Conservation Edited by Gloria Pungetti, Gonzato Oviedo & Della Hooke Cambridge • 978 0 5211 2575 8 It is being increasingly recognised that cultural and biological diversity are deeply linked and that conservation programs should take into account the ethical, cultural and spiritual values of nature. With contributions from a range of scholars, practitioners and spiritual leaders from around the world, this book provides new insights into biocultural diversity conservation. It explores sacred landscapes, sites, plants and animals from around the world to demonstrate the links between nature conservation, spiritual beliefs and traditions. Key conceptual topics are connected to case studies, as well as modern and ancient spiritual insights, guiding the reader through the various issues from fundamental theory and beliefs to practical applications. It looks forward to the biocultural agenda, providing guidelines for future research and practice and offering suggestions for improved integration of these values into policy, planning and management. S G 176
geology: Off the Beaten Track Nick Norman Struik Nature • 978 1 4317 0082 0
This book follows on the success of author Nick Norman’s earlier work Geological Journeys (co-authored with Gavin Whitfield), which has sold more than 20 000 copies in the last six years. This new book helps readers understand and interpret the geology along SA’s regional and other less-travelled roads. It features 13 detailed routes across the country, taking in geologically interesting areas such as the Richtersveld, Cape winelands and the Valley of Desolation near Graaff-Reinet. The text is richly illustrated with photos and explanatory diagrams, making it suitable for armchair travellers too. Maps for all the routes indicate key geosites, with GPS readings to pinpoint their location. This is a must-have handbook for travellers to the regions above, or for anyone wanting to know more about our rocks and landforms.
100 edible & healing flowers Margaret Roberts Struik Nature • 978 1 7758 4037 4
Margaret Roberts is a well-known proponent for the use of natural products to enhance health and wellbeing. In this hands-on, practical book, she instructs how and when to plant, grow and harvest flowers, and supplies recipes that harness the medicinal, cosmetic and edible nature of these plants. The accessible, down-to-earth text is spiced with personal anecdotes and information about the historical use of flowers in herbalism. Colourful photographs aid identification, and Margaret’s delicate line drawings add an appealing touch of whimsy to this elegant book. An indispensable guide for anyone interested in health, wellness, organic gardening and using flowers to enhance their cooking and health.
herb journal Margaret Roberts
Struik Nature • 978 1 7758 4063 3
This beautifully designed journal taps into Roberts' well known talents, both for wholesome, natural health products and for her delicate drawings of the plants and flowers that are the tools of her trade. The lined pages invite journalkeeping, note-taking and the like, and are lightly decorated with small drawings, quick recipes and interesting tips about flowers and their properties.
south african flowering trees Rob Wood Print Matters • 978 0 9870 2935 5
Many books are written about trees, but few give a complete picture: what do they look like? Where do they come from? How do they grow? What are their uses for man, animals, birds and insects? How did they get these names and how have their names changed over time? This book, however, acknowledges the many brave and resourceful early users and describers of the trees, plant collectors and explorers, whose intense interest has contributed to what we know today. The histories in this volume refer primarily to the written record, but wherever possible, tribal knowledge of trees – originally passed on by word of mouth – is included, specifically, uses for food, fuel, protection, medicine and 'magic'. This book should excite anyone interested in SA's natural heritage, whether they’re botanists, dendrologists, art lovers, Africana enthusiasts, historians, nature lovers or simply curious about their natural environment.
177 S G
Listings
To advertise contact adverts@simplygreen.co.za • Rate: R11.25 per word, minimum 20 words, includes image.
KIDS
ECO-PRODUCTS
Naturalwise online shop and blog. Great products to promote and support a healthier, eco-friendlier, chemical-free lifestyle. Fast delivery throughout South Africa. Tel: 086 110 6329 or 011 705 1607, Email: sales@naturalwise.co.za, Blog: www.naturalwise.co.za, Shop: www.naturalwise.co.za/cart/
SOLAR COOKING Olympus Flower Cookers With solar cooking you use the cleanest, most enviro-friendly energy source. Sunbeams are converted to heat on the surface of a dark pot. 'Mirror Of Hope'. Using the energy of our free sun. www.olympusflower.com, helga@eshelbypianos.com Ray: 072-235-1385, Helga: 082-735-0830
metal bender stoves High quality wrought iron stoves for cooking & warmth Rocket stove: made from recycled gas bottles. It uses very little wood and takes a single pot/kettle. www.olympusflower.com helga@eshelbypianos.com Phone during office hours: Ray: 072-235-1385 Helga: 082-735-0830
MEADOWSWEET
Meadowsweet products – free of toxins and synthetic fragrances, a quality range of therapeutic natural body care products with the recommended medicinal dosage of essential oils. Our products include a range of hand and body lotions, body scrubs, sore muscle soak, bath milks, bath salts, spritzers, essential oils, body butters, soaps, shampoo, body wash and massage oils. Our ethos is centered on truth, beauty and goodness in all areas of our lives.
083 454 9123 • Email • Website • Facebook
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The Tipi Tannie
the tipi tannie
No harsh chemicals are used in the making of the tipis from The Tipi Tannie. I use 100% cotton canvas, 100% linen and 100% hemp canvas and as far as possible, untreated bluegum poles. If poles are treated, it is with linseed oil. Many design extras can be added and each tipi is unique. Prices start from as little as R690 for a 4ft tipi for little ones age 3-5 and go up to R2 600 for a 7ft tipi with 11 poles, for ages 3-15. Canvas is treated with anti-fungus. Call 081 408 3912, email or
Grow A Tree Grow A Tree is a small social enterprise founded in 2008 working across the country and aims to make tree planting fun. Their main aim is to grow 1 000 000 indigenous trees from seed. Through their website you can buy their starter pack so that you can plant a tree in a comminty area and come back in 20 years to say its progress. You can also sponsor a tree or volunteer to help out at events.
Media Pack 2012
www.growatree.co.za • info@growatree.co.za