Leading the eco-lifestyle
Greening your baby
bmw active e
Nature's maths
al gore on the future
DIGIMAG
simply
maY • 2013
living off the grid insulation:
polystyrene
toxic fashion vs natural dyes
hot new trends eco-graffiti 3d printing eco-mimicry building biology
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SA's leading eco-lifestyle magazine, Simply Green has arrived in the digital realm, and is FREE of charge.
At least 12 (monthly) completely new and independent digital magazines scheduled per year. Readable or downloadable on any digital platform.
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Simply Green Digimag has a reach of over 3.6 million at launch via existing channels, with this expected to increase rapidly through our partners and viral distribution.
Simply Green Digimag as you've never seen it, using the reach of the web, the flexibility of being able to download to your PC, smartphone, tablet or any other digital device.
A whole new audience is now introduced to the values and benefits of a sustainable lifestyle, and is encouraged to interact with Simply Green's growing community through the power of social media. Contact Cape Town Head Office Tel 27 (0) 21 713 0018 or 712 4665 • 082 579 7915 • Fax 715 2809 info@simplygreen.co.za • www.simplygreen.co.za howzit SG 2
digimag
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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.
At least 12 (monthly) completely new and independent digital magazines scheduled per year. Readable or downloadable on any digital platform.
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ODYSSEY
SA's leading integrated living mag
Subscribe to our FREE mailer.
Odyssey Digimag has a reach of over 3.6 million at launch via existing channels, with this expected to increase rapidly through our partners and viral distribution.
Odyssey Digimag as you've never seen it, using the reach of the web, the flexibility of being able to download to your PC, smartphone, tablet or any other digital device.
digimag
click here
A whole new audience is now introduced to the values and benefits of an integrated lifestyle, and is encouraged to interact with Odyssey's growing community through the power of social media. 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 howzit
3 SG
10 l 20 enta nm sm iro nali v En our ard J Aw er nn Wi ican Afr ited uth Lim e So ies Th er Brew
Inside
100
News
Energy
40 Living off the grid 43 Energy Barometer Survey
14 Al Gore on the future 18 Eco-mimicry 22 Ups & downs of going green 26 3D Printing 30 Eco-graffiti 32 Merging Nature 34 Ecomo homes
Buildings
44 Insulation: Polystyrene 48 Building Biology 50 From the ground up
Mobility
56 Mercedes A Class 64 BMW ActiveE
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
10 General
Features
34 82 Health
70 Reconnection
Fashion
72 Toxic fashion vs natural dyes
Home
80 Silver ain't just pretty 82 Eco-heating this winter
Family
84 Greening your baby
Publisher Chris Erasmus publisher@simplygreen.co.za Editor Nicole Sherwin editor@simplygreen.co.za Creative Director Silke Erasmus admin@simplygreen.co.za Assistant Editor Lenard Roos studio1@simplygreen.co.za
National Sales Consultants Kyle Villet websales@simplygreen.co.za Tamzen Scoulelis adverts@simplygreen.co.za Studio Manager Kevin Rule studio2@simplygreen.co.za
May edition 2013
84 62
Volume 6 No.2 •
70 60 98 Nature's math
Conservation
Tech
118 Rhino Knights
Food
122 Deskbags
Pet
126 Winter wonderland 130 Grow your own 135 How to avoid mosquito bites
93 App attack
100 Kitchen makeover 106 How to read nutritional labels
114 Mush it up 116 News
Regulars
Community Gardening & Outdoors
67 Wellness Warehouse 68 Hot off the press 94 On Safari 137 Listings 140 Books & CDs
Webmaster Garry Doel web@simplygreen.co.za
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Copyright
Green Spaces Publishing House
Simply Green is a registered trademark and is copyright protected worldwide. Material
Webdesign Michael-Ray Erasmus webdesign@simplygreen.co.za Accounts Tracy Lee Nash
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published in Simply Green, including all
Opinions expressed in this magazine are not
artwork, may not be reproduced without the
necessarily those of the publishers or staff.
permission of the editor.
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5 SG
editor's note
OUR STATS
The March Digimag's direct reach via Issuu in a month was 6 675, with this extended via the Simply Green website and social media to over 45 000. Total exposure, reads, views & downloads was +52 000*.
* As of going live
WELCOME!
We would like to welcome our new National Sales Consultant, Kyle Villet, to the Simply Green Digimag team. Contact him here. 'After years of being involved with "energy publications" it feels good to work with a publication promoting a positive and practical outlook on eco awareness. I look forward to working with a fantastic award-winning team as we take this path into the new digital era.'
SG 6
With the emerging global hot topic of sustainable consumption and within the widening sustainability debate, there is an increasing amount of dialogue appearing through various mediums that focuses on our 'values systems' – the relatively stable, psychological ‘floor plan’ that represents core elements of our self-concept and, more generally, who we are. With some form of clear logic, we need to somehow encourage our intrinsic values in order to bring about mass-scale behavioural change that is mindful and appreciative of others (be that people, communities, the environment and the planet). The sustainable consumption issue – sustainable behaviour, for instance – is firmly in focus, and for good reason. There is a clear pattern and the focus is consistently on the individual consumer having to re-appraise the situation (maybe with help, be that a nudge or a prompt) and consciously reconnecting with their intrinsic values. In our 2nd Digimag issue we focus on many different topics, ideas and possible solutions to connecting with our own intrinsic values and helping to counter-act pollution, the reduction of natural recourses and giving more healthy options for product purchasing and lifestyle changes with a more conscious intent, and of course having lots of fun along the way. We want to praise Earth Hour that happened recently on 29th March, which grew from one city to 152 countries and inspires a global community of millions, and Earth Day on the 22nd April, supported by 192 countries and community of millions, but more than that, we want to urge you to make every hour your earth hour, every day your Earth Day, or at the least make each week your earth week. This is an on-going campaign, which we support all year round and hope you will join us in this support. I hope you enjoy our free 2nd Simply Green digimag, please share it with friends, colleagues and family. We’d also love to hear your feedback, so please feel free to like our page on facebook and post a comment – . Wishing you happy, eco journeys.
Consciously yours, Nicole Sherwin
Please note that Nicole will be taking up the position of Consulting Editor from the next issue – Chris Erasmus will add Executive Editor to his current Simply Green portfolio as Publisher.
Contributors Roger Metcalfe is a writer specialising in the environment, technology and medicine. He is an ex-diplomat and produces marketing films for the corporate sector. Roger is a partner in Solar Connect – his own solar energy business, offering a cost-free advisory service to architects and developers regarding energy efficient buildings. Dr Marc Sher is currently studying for a diploma in Implantology, a new branch of dentistry focussing on the reconstruction of missing teeth and their supporting structures with natural or synthetic substitutes. He practices from The Dental Practice in Sea Point, Cape Town, which boasts a team of highly skilled dentists and oral hygienists. Ben Chapman is a mechanical engineering student at Olin College whose summer internship is based at TechShop SF. He is working on designing, building, and sharing a series of projects that explore the use of Autodesk software for do-it-yourself projects relating to sustainability.
Jane Griffiths has been growing organic vegetables and herbs in her Johannesburg garden for more than 15 years. She has published a few books and now shares her knowledge and tips with Simply Green readers.
SG 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. Raj Lochan is CEO of the Rose Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to the recycling of used oils in South Africa, and has served on the regional committee of the Wildlife and Enviro-society of SA. 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.
Energy Training 2013 for optimal sustainable development Certified Energy Manager (CEM ) 5 CPD credits for ECSA Understand the full spectrum of energy efficiency by identifying significant energy savings opportunities and implementing effective solutions for continued sustainable energy management programs in all industries. Attain international professional status through the AEE in the energy engineering industry that recognises ethical fitness and competence in 89 countries. Cpt 11-15 March 2013 Jhb 20-24 May 2013 Jhb 14-18 October 2013
Certified Measurement and Verification Professional (CMVP ) 3 CPD credits for ECSA Set industry required energy baselines, and measure and verify energy savings in compliance with international (IPMVP and EVO) and local standards, legislation and regulations. This AEE course uses protocols, methodologies and tools to quantify and manage the performance risks and benefits associated with end-use energy efficiency, renewable energy and water efficiency. PE 11-13 March 2013 Jhb 22-24 May 2013 Jhb 16-18 October 2013
Fundamentals for Energy Management Training (FEMT) 3 CPD credits for ECSA Learn the basics of electrical, mechanical, thermal systems and energy management fundamentals. An ideal course to invigorate technical knowledge and provides sufficient tools and knowledge to identify the correct technologies for your applications.Training is aimed at preparing delegates for the comprehensive CEM® and CMVP® training courses and examinations. Cpt 12-14 February 2013 Jhb 16-18 April 2013 Dbn 23-25 July 2013 Bloem 13-15 August 2013 Jhb 17-19 September 2013
Energy Management Systems Implementation (EnMSI) 2 CPD credits for ECSA Developed with DQS SA and Certification Europe the EnMSI is an ideal starting point to gain the knowledge and understanding to implement an energy management system, in accordance with ISO50001:2011 and EN16001:2009, using case studies and practical exercises. Jhb 20-21 May 2013 Jhb 16-17 October 2013
Customised and on-site training available.
The EnTF is the approved Southern African trainer of the US-based Association of Energy Engineers (AEE) and the SAEE in South Africa for CEM and CMVP.
Contact: Lydia Marais lydia@entf.co.za 076 401 3881/2 www.energytrainingfoundation.co.za
a division of Energy Cyber netics
GreenViews SG 8
Face of Esse For the past two years Esse has run a successful “Face of Esse” campaign where every month a candidate is selected by public vote to be a finalist and thus a chance at winning the Face of Esse title. The campaign spread virally and as a result been instrumental in Esse’s increased public recognition and has helped the company develop key contacts through the campaign’s sponsors. Each month’s winner in 2012 was given incredible gifts by these prestigious brands: Simply Green magazine, Hellooow handmade jewellery, African Organics, Citizen Eco-Drive, Jane Iredale make-up and Mahlathini Organics.
Well done this is fabulous!!! Kind regards, Jeunesse Park Climate Reality Leader & Founder
Congratulations. I am amazed at how easy it is to read and how functional it is. Nice issue. Lyn Ras
It's excellent. Thanks. Lots of useful articles and very informative. Andrew Jones-Phillipson
Thanks so much for your email and informing me on all the changes – I wish all the best for Simply Green and hope going digital will spur things off in the right direction for the mag. We had a lovely response to the article on our Face Book page, which I am sure would have redirected many of our followers to issuu’s page. I will definitely be in touch should we want or need to collaborate again. Kind regards, Louise Mary Alexander
Wonderful Green Digimag, thank you Chris & team. Marina & Yoga Teachers' Fellowship.
I love your new magazine and definitely want to continue receiving it. Thanks so much. Kind regards, Dianne O'Connor
SG HAS GONE DIGITAL
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N ews
Reforest Fest
For the third year running, Greenpop and Reliance Compost will be hosting The Reforest Fest in Platbos forest, close to Gansbaai. This initiative has seen over 3 000 indigenous trees being planted in SA since 2010. This year Greenpop plans to host two strong reforestation efforts during May and aims to plant 4 000 trees. Greenpop is a social enterprise that believes greening and sustainable living can be fun, polar and accessible for all. The initiative aims to protect and grow the Platbos forest through two reforestation festivals, where treeplanting efforts are coupled with fun activities (and parties for the 'Friends' event) and opportunity for volunteers to experience and enjoy the forest. Platbos, a relic forest with trees of over 1 000 years of age, forms part of one of the rare and endangered ecosystems of the Western Cape and has a unique mix of indigenous trees from coastal and mountainous regions (www.platbos.co.za, click here for maplink). Like many natural forests around the world, parts of Platbos have been cleared over the past decades for cultivation. Today, many of these cleared areas are being taken over by dense invasive alien vegetation, which pose a serious fire risk to the forest. In response to this issue, Melissa and Francois Krige of Platbos have launched the Trees for Tomorrow reforestation program. Through this, endemic seeds are harvested from the forest, reared in a nursery close-by and then replanted to extend and grow the forest. It’s important to plant these endemic trees because they are adapted to drought and serve as an important food source for the bird and animal species that live here. The event is split in two: the Family Fest (weekend of 10, 11 and 12 May), and the Friends Fest (weekend of 17, 18 & 19 May). Until 20 March tickets will be R495 (children under 12, R300). Thereafter it is R550 (children under 12, R350). Camping, meals, music, tools, fun activities and trees for the initiative, included. In bookings of 6 the cheapest ticket will be free. People who are unable to afford a ticket are encouraged to raise Trees for Tickets by setting up an activist portal on GivenGain and raising 10 trees for their ticket – email tickets@greenpop.org. Book here: http://goo.gl/s8MQZ. Become a tree sponsor - email kate@greenpop.org or call 021 461 9265.
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activist makes a difference
Back in 2010, the citizens of Concord, Massachusetts, made efforts to ban the use of plastic water bottles in their city: The effort was lead by Jean Hill, an 82-year-old activist, who lobbied neighbours and officials alike on the consequences of plastic bottles filling landfills and polluting local waters. 'All these discarded bottles are damaging our planet, causing clumps of garbage in the oceans that hurt fish, and are creating more pollution on our streets,' said Hill. It has taken a few years for the ban to take effect, but as of 1 January 2013, Concord became among the first US communities to ban single-serving plastic water bottles.
WATCH THIS!
Plastic bottle ban Concord, Massachusetts
World's 1st organic country
South Africans see the value of switching off
More South Africans than ever must have enjoyed candlelight dinners during Earth Hour recently as Eskom reported a drastically reduced energy usage on the night. They switched off and 'achieved a massive 629MW average reduction on their electricity usage compared to 402MW at last years event,' said Eskom.
2nd International Convention of Enviro-Laureates
The 2nd International Convention of Enviro-Laureates was staged recently by the European Enviro-Foundation EEF in Freiburg, Germany where a declaration in which the participating enviro-laureates urging a fundamental change in environmental and climate policy was signed. What distinguishes this conference and summit from others is the diversity of its participants – 80 winners of internationally renowned enviro-prizes came together from 44 countries.
By shunning all but organic farming techniques, the Himalayan state of Bhutan will cement its status as a paradigm of sustainability. Bhutan plans to become the first country in the world to turn its agriculture completely organic, banning the sales of pesticides and herbicides and relying on its own animals and farm waste for fertilisers. 'The decision to go organic was both practical and philosophical,' said Pema Gyamtsho, Bhutan's minister of agriculture and forests. 'Ours is a mountainous terrain. When we use chemicals they don't stay where we use them, they impact the water and plants. We say that we need to consider all the environment. Most of our farm practices are traditional farming, so we are largely organic anyway. We are Buddhists too, and we believe in living in harmony with nature. Animals have the right to live, we like to see plants happy and insects happy,' he said.
Kungwini Guest House certified by FTTSA
Kungwini Guest House in Bronkhorstspruit is the fourth tourism business in the Dinokeng area to become certified by Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA) through the Gauteng Tourism Authority (GTA) project 'Travel with a Conscience'. This campaign is aimed at positioning Dinokeng as a responsible tourism destination.
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US anti-fracking
community join forces with SA
Following the Goldman Enviro-Prize ceremony in Washington recently, Ms Darcey O’Callaghan, International Director of American-based enviro-group Food & Water Watch (FWW), accepted a South African flag from global anti-fracking campaigner Jonathan Deal, 2013 Goldman Prize recipient for Africa, and chair of the South African activist organisation Treasure Karoo Action Group. The symbolic swapping of flags was part of an initiative between Deal and Americans Against Fracking (AAF), a coalition of Americans and organisations representing those opposed to shale gas mining. AAF counts among its board members such personalities as Josh Fox (Gasland producer), singer Natalie Merchant, actor Mark Ruffalo, and more than 200 organisations collectively representing millions of people opposed to fracking. Deal added that adding momentum to the movement was recent news coverage about attorneys representing applicants to mine shale gas in South Africa, expressing doubt about the likelihood of exploration licenses in 2013, specifically because of environmental appeals. 'Our hard work and campaigning is starting to pay off. Fracking is a global issue, driven by a global oil and gas conglomerate. Those of us who stand for a clean and healthy environment need to mount a global response. We have started that,' he said.
WATCH THIS!
Jonathan Deal: 2013 Goldman Enviro-Prize Winner
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Earth University
Costa Rica
Located in the forests of Guanacaste, Costa Rica, Earth University is an institution of education, innovation, and exploration. Earth University is an international NPO founded in 1987 with the first classes taking place in 1990. A small, but prestigious school, Earth University hand-picks its 418 students in order to identify the most focused and determined leaders for a sustainable future. As American-born Kristine Jimenez, Director of Communications for the university said: 'Change from within is the most effective' which is why Costa Rica took the lead in creating the region's first enviro-centered institution of this kind. The university is further unique in that it focuses on a balance between student-centred learning and field experience. With a focus on agronomics, it encourages students to work with locals and educates them to expand their productivity and maintain enviro-friendly farming practices. Most of their projects involve self-sustainable farming such as free-range pastured poultry, using recycled materials to grow plants, and a massive recycling initiative. The plants grown on the 3.3ha campus supply the majority of the university's own food. Also, the institution exports crops to North America, including bananas to whole foods grocery stores with great success. Earth University is a model university which strives to combat poverty, promote peace and foster a better value of life. A prominent aspect of this university is its urban farming initiative for those with little space to grow food. The plants grown (in vertical structures) can support a variety of populations ranging from single households to whole communities.
WATCH THIS!
Trekking For Trash episodes
Trekking for Trash
Monsanto vs AVAAZ
Grassroots activist group Avaaz has set its sights on biotech giant Monsanto, alleging that the global corporation wants to 'own the patent rights to key varieties of everyday vegetables and fruits like cucumber, broccoli and melons, forcing growers to pay them for seed and risk being sued if they don’t'. Avaaz says companies like Monsanto 'have found loopholes in European law to have exclusive rights over conventional seeds', setting a 'dangerous global precedent'. Avaaz and other anti-GM groups say they are hoping that key countries like Germany, France and the Netherlands – where opposition is already growing – will step in to call for an EU vote to stop Monsanto’s plans. Avaaz claims that 'many farmers and politicians' are against this development and are mobilising within the EU and globally to focus consumer and producer resistance – 'we need to bring in people power to pressure these countries to keep Monsanto’s hands off our food', they say. Visit www.avaaz.org for more.
Michael Baretta and Camilla Howard have recently walked almost 2 000km along SA's coast, starting at the Namibian border and will have finished their trek as you read this. What do they have to say on the status of SA's beaches? 'Durban's are the dirtiest; PE had 900kg of rubbish in a 1km stretch and Cape Town's beaches were the cleanest.' Visit www.facebook.com/Trekking For Trash to find out more.
Aiding cancer research
Olyfberg and the Cancer Association of SA (CANSA) joined hands in the battle against cancer, recently. Olyfberg will donate R2 to cancer research for every litre of their extra virgin olive oil sold.
UN Forum on
of the world's land covered by solar panels could meet all the global electricity needs in 2050
Forests Short Film Awards (Africa) Winner
Greenpop's media partner, Makh3ulu, won the award. The winning film was made during Greenpop's first Trees for Zambia project last year. Lloyd Manyana, around whom the film revolves, was a tree-cutter and charcoal burner in Livingstone, Zambia, before becoming a tree grower and starting his own tree nursery. He is now one of Greenpop's tree suppliers and partners for their Trees for Zambia project.
WATCH THIS!
Biofuel to take off in US
The US is now ready to take second generation biofuel technologies, such as cellulosic ethanol production, to the market on the same scale and level as the Brazilian model, said Dr James McMillian from the US National Renewable Energy Laboratory, during the 20th International Symposium on Alcohol Fuels held in Stellenbosch, recently.
Deforestation in Zambia documentary winner
13 S G
The Future
According to Gore S G 14
Nobel Laureate and former US Vice President Al Gore has written a new book, The Future. This extract is from the introductory chapter of that book and tells us in broad sweeps what he and other experts and futurists see coming for the human race in the near to medium term.
L
ike many fulfilling journeys, this book began
markets, and national governments than in the past;
not with answers but with a question. Eight
A planet-wide electronic communications grid
years ago, when I was on the road, someone
connecting the thoughts and feelings of billions
asked me: 'What are the drivers of global change?'
of people and linking them to rapidly expanding
I listed several of the usual suspects and left it
volumes of data, to a fast growing web of sensors
at that. Yet the next morning, the question kept
being embedded ubiquitously throughout the world,
pulling me back, demanding that I answer it
and to increasingly intelligent devices, robots, and
more precisely and accurately – not by relying on
thinking machines, the smartest of which already
preconceived dogma but by letting the emerging
exceed (some) capabilities of humans and may soon
evidence about an emerging world take me where it
surpass us in manifestations of intelligence we have
would. The question, it turned out, had a future of
always assumed would remain the unique province
its own. I started an outline and spent several hours
of our species;
listing headings and subheadings, then changing
A completely new balance of political, economic,
their rank order and relative magnitude, moving
and military power in the world that is radically
them from one category to another and filling in
different from the equilibrium that characterized
more details after each rereading.
the second half of the 20th century, during which
As I spent the ensuing years raising awareness
the USA provided global leadership and stability –
about climate change and pursuing a business
shifting influence and initiative from West to East,
career, I continued to revisit, revise, and sharpen
from wealthy countries to rapidly emerging centres
the outline until finally, two years ago, I concluded
of power throughout the world, from nation states
that it would not leave me alone until I dug in and
to private actors, and from political systems to
tried to thoroughly answer the question that had
markets;
turned into something of an obsession.
Rapid unsustainable growth – in population;
What emerged was this book, about the six most
cities; resource consumption; depletion of topsoil,
important drivers of global change, how they are
freshwater supplies, and living species; pollution
converging and interacting with one another, where
flows; and economic output that is measured and
they are taking us, and how we as human beings –
guided by an absurd and distorted set of universally
and as a global civilisation – can best affect the way
accepted metrics that blinds us to the destructive
these changes unfold. In order to reclaim control
consequences of the self-deceiving choices we are
of our destiny and shape the future, we must think
routinely making;
freshly and clearly about the crucial choices that
A revolutionary new set of powerful biological,
confront us as a result of the emergence of:
biochemical, genetic, and materials science
A
economy
technologies that are enabling us to reconstitute
that increasingly operates as a fully integrated
the molecular design of all solid matter, reweave
holistic entity with a completely new and different
the fabric of life itself, alter the physical form,
relationship to capital flows, labour, consumer
traits, characteristics, and properties of plants,
deeply
interconnected
global
15 S G
animals, and people, seize active control over evolution, cross the ancient lines dividing species, and invent entirely new ones never imagined in nature; and A radically new relationship between the aggregate power of human civilisation and the Earth's ecological systems, including especially the most vulnerable – the atmosphere and climate balance upon which the continued flourishing of humankind depends – and the beginning of a massive global transformation of our energy, industrial, agricultural, and construction technologies in order to re-establish a healthy and balanced relationship between human civilisation and the future. There is a clear consensus that the future now emerging will be extremely different from anything we have ever known. It is a difference not of degree but of kind. There is no prior period of change that remotely resembles what humanity is about to experience. We have gone through revolutionary periods of change before, but none as powerful or as pregnant with the fraternal twins – peril and opportunity – as the ones that are beginning to unfold. Nor have we ever experienced so many revolutionary changes unfolding simultaneously and converging with one another. The positive and negative sets of trends (mentioned above) are occurring simultaneously. The fact that some are welcome and others are not has an effect on our perception of them. The unwelcome trends are sometimes ignored, at least in part because they are unpleasant to think about. Any uncertainty about them that can be conjured to justify inaction is often seized upon with enthusiasm, while new hard evidence establishing their reality is often resisted with even stronger denial of the reality the
Tim Berners-Lee, inventor
evidence supports.
of the World Wide Web
Just as naïve optimism can amount to self-deception, so too can a predisposition to pessimism blind us to bases for legitimate hope that we can find a path that leads around and through the dangers that lie ahead. Indeed, I am an optimist – though my optimism is predicated on the hope that we will find ways to see and think clearly about the obvious trends that are even now gaining momentum, that we will reason together and attend to the dangerous distortions in our present ways of describing and measuring the powerful changes that are now under way, that we will actively choose to preserve human values and protect them, not least against the mechanistic and destructive consequences of our baser instincts that are now (greatly) magnified by powerful technologies. I have tried my best to describe what I believe the evidence shows is more likely than not to present us with important choices that we must consciously make together. I do so not out of fear, but because I believe in the future.
Available now from all leading bookstores nationwide at a recommended retail price of R275, or click here to order.
S G 16
'Whether he's discussing cyberspace, the environment, science, or the economy, Al Gore presents in this book, with impressive breadth and well-researched depth, the challenges we have to meet to ensure that they become opportunities rather than threats. If you are concerned about the massive changes the world is just heading into, then you should read this book. If you aren't, then you must read it.'
17 S G
Biz
economy With proper care and respect, the earth can provide a high quality
oil drilling, hydraulic fracturing, natural gas extraction and mountaintop-removal coal mining are but examples
of life for all people in perpetuity.
of the insanity that short-term, quick-fix economics produce. These
Yet, we devastate productive
rapidly diminishing, non-renewable fossil-energy reserves, disrupt
highly profitable choices deepen our economic dependence on
lands and waters for a quick
the generative capacity of the earth’s living systems and accelerate
profit, a few temporary jobs or a
A global economy dependent on this nonsense is already failing
one-time resource fix. How did we
and its ultimate collapse is only a matter of time. For a surprisingly
end up with Wall Street's version
we are outside of, superior to, and not subject to, the rules of nature.
of 'profit at any price', when
S G 18
O
ur current expansion of tar sands oil extraction, deep-sea
climate change.
long time, we humans have successfully maintained the illusion that We do so, however, at a huge cost and payment is coming due. To secure the health and happiness of future generations, we
models for a healthy economy are
must embrace life as our defining value, recognise that competition
all around us and what would a
restructure our institutions to conform to life’s favoured organising
is but a subtext of life’s deeper narrative of co-operation and
'down-to-earth economy look like?
principle of radically decentralised, localised decision-making and
David Korten reports.
has learned about the organisation of complex living systems over
self-organisation. This work begins with recognising what nature
great cycles of regeneration.'
billions of years.
Nature surrounds us with expressions of
Our Original Instructions
So how
the organising principles that make possible
would nature
life’s exceptional resilience, capacity for
design an
the
adaptation, creative innovation and vibrant
'original instructions'. Chief Oren Lyons, of
abundance. Earth’s biosphere and the human
economy?
the Onondaga Nation, summarises the rules
body are two magnificent examples.
An economy is nothing
I’m talking about for all human beings, are
The Economy of the Biosphere
to get along with (nature’s) laws and support
Earth’s exquisitely complex, resilient and
them and work with them. We were told a long
continuously evolving band of life – the
system for
time ago that if you do that, life is endless.
biosphere – demonstrates on a grand scale the
allocating
It just continues on and on in great cycles
creative potential of the distributed intelligence
of regeneration. If you want to tinker with
of many trillions of individual self-organising,
resources to
that regeneration, if you want to interrupt it,
choice-making,
that’s your choice, but the results that come
in concert, they continuously regenerate
back can be very severe because the laws are
soils, rivers, aquifers, fisheries, forests and
absolute.'
grasslands, while maintaining climatic balance
presumably,
and the composition of the atmosphere to
in support of
Some
indigenous
people
speak
of
in 'Listening to Natural Law' in the anthology original Instructions: 'Our instructions and
Decision-making would be local & the system would organise from the bottom up
living
organisms.
more than a
Acting
serve the needs of the earth’s widely varied
productive activity –
life forms. So long as humans honour the
life. In fact,
original instructions, the biosphere has
nature is an
an extraordinary capacity to optimise the
Modern neuroscience affirms that the human
capture, organisation and sharing of Earth’s
economy,
brain evolved to reward co-operation and
energy, water and nutrients in support of life
with
service. In other words, nature has hard-wired
– including human life.
material and
the original instructions into our brain.
In nature, species and individuals earn
Extreme individualism, greed and violence
a right to a share in the bounty of the
information
are pathological and a sign of physical,
whole as necessary to their sustenance
developmental, cultural, and/or institutional
through their contribution to the well-being
exchange,
system failure. Caring relationships are the
of the whole. Over the long-term, those that
saving,
foundation of healthy families, communities
contribute, prosper and those that do not
and life itself.
contribute, expire. The interests of the whole
investment,
We are living out the consequences of
are protected against rogue behaviour by
production
our collective human failure to adhere to
natural limits on the ability of any individual
the original instructions – the organising
or species to monopolise resources beyond
and
principles of healthy living systems readily
its own need to the exclusion of the needs
consumption
discernible through observation of nature
of others.
– all functions
at work. These are the principles by which
Individuals and species may compete
we must rethink and reorganise human
for territory and sexual dominance, but the
we associate
economies.
amount of territory or number of mates
with
So how would nature design an economy?
nature allows an individual or species to claim
An economy is nothing more than a system
is local, limited and subject to continuous
economic
for allocating resources to productive activity
challenge. Until humans began to create the
activity.
– presumably, in support of life. In fact, nature
imperial civilisations characteristic of our
is an economy, with material and information
most recent 5 000 years, the idea that any
exchange, saving, investment, production and
species, let alone a few individual members of
consumption – all functions we associate with
a species, might claim control of all of Earth’s
economic activity. Absent human intervention,
living wealth to the exclusion of all others was
as Lyons says, 'It just continues on and on in
beyond comprehension.
19 S G
economy, she would surely apply the same principles she applies in natural systems. Her goal would be a global system of bioregional living economies that secure a healthy, happy, productive life for every person on the planet in symbiotic balance with the non-human systems on which we humans depend for breathable air, drinkable water, fertile soils, timber, fish, grasslands and climate stability. Each bioregional economy would meet its own needs for energy, water, nutrients and mineral resources through sustained local capture, circular
The Economy of the Body The human body is a more intimate demonstration of the creative power of life’s organising principles. The individual human body comprises tens of trillions of individual living cells, each a decision-making entity with the ability to manage and maintain its own health and integrity under changing and often stressful circumstances. At the same time, each cell faithfully discharges its responsibility to serve the needs of the entire body on which its own health and integrity depend. Working together, these cells create and maintain a self-organising human organism with the potential to achieve extraordinary feats of physical grace and intellectual acuity far beyond the capability of any individual cell on its own. Each decision-making, resource-sharing cell is integral to a larger whole of which no part or system can exist on its own. Together they create regulatory mechanisms internal to the whole that work to assure that no part asserts dominance over the others or monopolises the body’s stores of energy, nutrients and water for its exclusive use. Resources are shared based on need. All the while, the body’s cells self-organise to fight off a vast variety of viruses, cancer cells and harmful bacteria, adapt to changing temperatures and energy needs and variations in the body’s food and water intake, heal damaged tissues and collect and provide sensory data to our conscious mind essential to our choice-making. Another of the many impressive expressions of the body’s capacity to self-organise is the process by which our cells continuously regenerate while maintaining the body’s integrity as a unified organism. The cells lining the human stomach have a turnover of only five days. Red blood cells are replaced every 120 days or so. The surface of the skin recycles every two weeks. The cells of the body are constantly reproducing, growing and dying.
A Human Economy Based on Nature If nature were in charge of creating an enduring human S G 20
flow, utilisation and repurposing. Decision-making would be local and the system would organise from the bottom up. Diversity and redundancy would support local adaptation and resilience. This should be our goal and vision. With the biosphere as our systems model, we would design our economic institutions and rules to align with nature’s rules and organising principles. We would replace GDP as the primary measure of economic performance with a new system of living system indicators that assess economic performance against the outcomes we actually want – healthy, happy people and healthy, resilient natural systems. These indicators could be based on Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness Index. We would redirect the time, talent and money we currently devote to growing GDP, material consumption, securities bubbles and 'Wall
Street bonuses' to producing the outcomes we really want. We would favour local, co-operative ownership and control. Organising from the bottom up in support of bioregional self-reliance, our economic institutions would support local decision-making in response to local needs and opportunities. Cultural and biological diversity and sharing within and between local communities would support local and global resilience and facilitate life-serving system innovation. The result would be an economy based on a love of life that honours the original instructions and conforms to the organising principles of nature, real markets and true democracy. The challenge is epic in its proportion and long overdue. We are Earth’s children; she is our mother. We must honour and care for her as she nurtures and cares for us. Together we can forge an integral partnership grounded in the learning and deep wisdom of her 3.8 billion-year experience in nurturing life’s expanding capacities for intelligent self-organisation, creative innovation and self-reflective consciousness.
SG
First published 17 Jan, 2013 by YES! Magazine www.commondreams.org/view/2013/01/17-11
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Eco-management & consulting
The ď ˜ups & downs of
going green
E
nviro-sustainability is not a short-term project to be implemented in an isolated department
These can be grouped into the following categories:
for box-ticking purposes. Due to the increasing
cost savings; risk management; economic sustainability;
importance of non-financial indicators, and the increasing direct and indirect economic impacts these indicators point to, sustainability requires significant change across the entire organisation – especially to mindsets.
S G 22
due to a number of drivers.
brand; and reputation.
Legislation In SA legislation will soon require companies to account
It is also important to note that sustainability is
for their carbon emissions as well as other non-traditional
no longer on the fringe – it is now on the agenda
data such as energy, sustainability efforts, environmental
and among the top priorities of most developed and
performance and corporate social investment. This is
developing countries, along with a growing number of
in accordance with the SA National Climate Change
business organisations, from big to small. Accordingly,
Response White Paper, released in October 2011, which
sustainability strategies are being increasingly adopted
announced that carbon budgets would become the norm
Every organisation is unique, with its own structure, operations and goals. When it comes to 'going green', or in corporate terms becoming environmentally sustainable, there is no 'one size fits all' solution. Anna Shevel, of Global Carbon Exchange SA (GCX), reports. within the next two years, as well as specific reporting
decisions. Non-financial data reporting is subject to
formats which will be phased in over a similar period.
the same materiality rules as financial information. As a result, data integrity is imperative when reporting on
Carbon Tax
environmental and social indicators.
When the SA carbon tax is implemented, one ton of
The scope of work and level of expertise required
CO2 emitted over your limit will cost you approximately
with
R120, according to the Treasury's Carbon Tax Discussion
grossly underestimated. It includes developing policy
cross-cutting
depth
of
knowledge
is
often
Document 2010. Carbon taxation is set to start in the
and strategy, as well as energy-efficiency, water,
financial year of 2013/2014 and large emitters are first
waste, pollution and carbon management. Effective
on the list to be regulated. However, by 2014/2015
communication via integrated reporting is crucial.
most businesses in SA will be required to report on their
There are three approaches most commonly employed
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. 2013 is already well
by companies. The specific method to take is often
upon us; if you haven't started planning, this is your cue.
dictated by the company size and structure (practicality). For SMEs through to the Top 100 corporates, the most
Integrated Reporting
effective strategy is to work with consultants. Some
Businesses now require a new kind of business intelligence
consultancies have a specialist team that make up a
to manage their energy, carbon and environmental
broad spectrum of environmental services, while other
performance. Effective reporting of this non-financial data
consultancies specialise in specific expertise.
requires the measurement, management and disclosure
Creating a dedicated sustainability department is
of this information. According to GCX Sustainability
advisable for very large multinational organisations
Strategist Kevin James, 'Companies face major challenges
which would prefer to do everything themselves. This
in terms of data integrity and transparency, particularly
approach is usually not effective unless your company
regarding non-financial data required to measure
is of the size of a major international which needs
organizational, product and supply chain footprints, which
highly specialised sustainability teams, protocols and
have not traditionally been measured and monitored by
has allocated large budgets towards sustainability.
most organisations.' He proposes that the objective of
The approach for small companies that only have a
integrated reporting, being how effectively a company
few staff members, but view environmental stewardship
integrated sustainability into its core business strategy,
as an important part of company culture, is for staff
has significant transformational value in improving
members to attend training and voluntarily take on
business efficiencies, shaping business opportunities
sustainability roles additional to their core function. Regardless
and improving competitiveness.
of
whether
consultants
are
used
The most common reporting platforms are the
or not, however, it is imperative that the internal
Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), the Global Reporting
sustainability staff – and, ideally, some other key staff
Initiative (GRI), and the Sustainability Reporting Index
within the organisation – are trained and are at the
(SRI).
least environmentally literate. This ensures that any
Investors & Stakeholders
outsourced work can be managed effectively and if external consultants require information or insight into
With asset management increasingly leaning toward
the company, the trained individual will assist effectively.
incorporating
investing)
Many companies conduct annual reports with assistance
frameworks, investors are depending on more than just
from a consultancy or use consultants to verify strategy,
financial information on which to base their investment
actions or reports.
SRI
(socially
responsible
23 S G
Most
companies,
even
PIC: www.consus.fr
The biggest challenge large
multi-national organisations, often have at most only one dedicated sustainability
employee
(if
that)
to manage the entire scope of the company's requirements. Added to this there is often a vast disconnect between the rest of the company and the sustainability manager's functions, which are often sidelined and seen as outside of the company's imperatives. The
biggest
challenge
when
assessing environmental performance (either
via
conducting
a
carbon
footprint, a water audit, or whatever) is not the calculation itself, but the fact that data is so difficult to access. The primary reason for this is that companies are not geared towards reporting on non-financial data and do not yet have the systems in place that capture and log this data for carbon accounting purposes. Meaningful is
of
and
paramount
underpinning
reliable
data
importance
in
decision-making.
It
also facilitates the development of a practical environmental strategy, which should be executed across the organisation. Imagine if the CEO of
The biggest challenge when assessing environmental performance (either via conducting a carbon footprint, a water audit, or whatever) is not the calculation itself, but the fact that data is so difficult to access. The primary reason for this is that companies are not geared toward reporting on non-financial data and do not yet have the systems in place that capture and log this data for carbon accounting purposes.
a major multinational corporation instructed his accountant to come in
integrity of the data is often compromised and the process is seen as an
once a year to prepare their annual P&L
annually stressful burden resulting in low confidence in the final product.
and balance sheet and then directed
Changing perceptions in the organisation is therefore the key. This is done
him to a container full of invoices and
through planned stakeholder engagement, skills and awareness training. It's
other source documents as a basis for
important to match up the right roles in the company with the right skills
this process.
training, but as this is a relatively new field in SA it is often difficult for the
This is the reality of sustainability officers who are expected to prepare
individual, the HR manager or the employer to figure out which courses will be of benefit to which staff members.
carbon footprint, GRI and sustainability
If you are embarking on this journey for the first time, up-skilling the key
reports without any formal processes,
staff that will be involved in the process is an imperative first step. It will
human resources, software tools,
reduce the amount of time taken by trial and error, which can often be years
and, most importantly, without an
if unsupported by expert knowledge and experience.
SG
executive mandate. Often
these
and
Global Carbon Exchange SA (GCX), is a leading local environmental sustainability
spend
consultancy and training provider whose clients include SMEs, major corporates,
too much time chasing up others
NGOs, NPOs, government departments, municipalities, carbon project developers and
in the organisation for accurate and
individuals or corporate teams seeking green skills development.
complete data sets. As a result, the
See www.gcx.co.za for more.
misunderstood
S G 24
overworked individuals
Switch/A101697/enviroment/print
Find partnerships in unlikely places. Since 1993, we have collected no less than 950 000 tons of cans from our surrounding environments. By partnering with Collect-a-Can, we can increase this recovery rate and further conserve and sustain the environment. To find out how we can keep our country beautiful contact us on (011) 466 2939 or visit www.collectacan.co.za. Recycle cans today. Sustain tomorrow.
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Tech
3D 3DECO S G 26
I 3D printing, also known
have been using 3D printing for several of my projects recently and I've had many conversations about the interplay between 3D
printing and the environment. It's been claimed that small-scale, distributed, 3D-printed, on-demand
as desktop fabrication or
manufacturing will (eventually) help eliminate
additive manufacturing,
transportation impacts, eliminate wasted inventory,
is a prototyping process whereby a physical object is created from a digital design. It has the potential to revolutionise the way we manufacture things – especially in the medical market. Ben Chapman looks at exploring 3D printing in a sustainable context.
waste and carbon emissions. It would help reduce and allow people to share the digital 'recipe' files for all kinds of useful items. In its current state, 3D printing hasn't reached those goals yet, and it has a lot to do with the way that people use the technology.
DIGITAL DESIGNS TO PHYSICAL JUNK Much of the time, people print out little toys, trinkets, sculptures or other things with little or no useful value. While it's true that these can be completely customised and may not be forgotten and thrown away as soon as store-bought toys are, they tend to be more fragile than the store-bought alternative due to their material structure. From an environmental outlook, it is probably not beneficial to use 3D printing to make swanky plastic trinkets. However, if you do, you should print with polylactic acid (PLA) – a biodegradable corn-plastic – rather than the non-degradable oil-based plastics like ABS.
3D PRINTING VS STORE BOUGHT On another level, there are also many functional items being printed. They have some useful value, and in many cases, there are store-bought things that serve the same purpose, but the 3D printed ones are more wacky, creative, or personalised. There is no clear general answer on whether or not to print when there's a store-bought alternative. On one hand, your 3D printed item didn't need to be shipped to you and you may continue to value it longer since it is more personalised and unique (leading to less waste). On the other hand, it may take three tries of printing it to get it exactly right (meaning lots of wasted plastic), and depending on your material and your design, a store-bought item might be more durable or less toxic. If you are printing these kinds of items, I'd suggest prototyping your design in PLA, so that you can compost the test versions Photo A 3D resin print from Shapeways with the original 3d model shown on screen by Dolf Veenvliet.
that don't work out.
27 S G
3D PRINTING: REPAIR & UPCYCLING
to produce, and would have been thrown away.
Two areas where, environmentally, it does make
With his device, he prolongs the life of the jar and
sense to 3D print are repair and upcycling. For
eliminates the need to manufacture another orange
repair, you may be able to print a small part that
juicer.
isn't readily available from the manufacturer. This
S G 28
can extend the life of that product, which may have
THE FUTURE
had a lot of environmental impact in its production.
According to Christopher Barnatt (a futurist, author,
For example, a friend of mine had an old
videographer and Associate Professor of Computing
lawnmower that had a broken gas-cap that he
and Future Studies in Nottingham University Business
couldn't buy a replacement for. He 3D printed a new
School): 'Whether or not they arrive en masse in the
cap instead of discarding the lawnmower and buying
home, 3D printers have many promising areas of
a new one. So, in his case, the environmental cost
potential future application. They may, for example,
of printing the plastic part was offset by eliminating
be used to output spare parts for all manner of
the need for manufacturing a lawnmower. I've
products, and which could not possibly be stocked
done an example of using 3D printing to repair the
as part of the inventory of even the best physical
handlebar-mount for my bike light.
store. Hence, rather than throwing away a broken
Upcycling is another area where 3D prints come
item (something unlikely to be justified a decade or
out as a net benefit. These are scenarios where we
two hence due to resource depletion and enforced
print items that add new functionality and lifetime
recycling), faulty goods will be able to be taken to a
to objects, especially ones that will be thrown
local facility that will call up the appropriate spare
away. In one example, designer Samuel Bernier
parts online and simply print them out. NASA has
made an attachment that turned a glass jar into
already tested a 3D printer on the International Space
an orange-juicer. The glass jar took a lot of energy
Station, and recently announced its requirement for
WATCH THESE!
compounds, including new ones. They first concept printed chemical reaction vessels, then use the printer to squirt reactants into them as 'chemical inks' which would then react. They have produced new compounds to verify the validity of the process, but have not pursued anything with a particular application. They used the Fab@Home open source printer, at a reported cost of US$2  000. Cornell Creative Machines Lab has confirmed that it is possible to produce customised food with 3D Hydrocolloid Printing. The use of 3D scanning technologies allows the replication of real objects without the use of moulding techniques that in many cases can be more expensive, more difficult, or too invasive to be performed, particularly for precious or delicate cultural heritage artifacts where direct contact with the moulding substances could harm the original object's surface. Objects as ubiquitous as smartphones can be used as 3D scanners: Sculpteo unveiled a mobile app at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show that allows a 3D file to be generated directly via smartphone. An additional use being developed is 'building printing', which could allow faster construction for lower costs, and is currently being investigated for
a high resolution 3D printer to produce spacecraft
construction of off-Earth habitats.
SG
parts during deep space missions. The US Army has also experimented with a truck-mounted 3D printer capable of outputting spare tank and other vehicle components in the battlefield.'
SOURCES Autodesk • Explaining the Future
As of 2012, 3D printing technology has been studied by biotechnology firms and academia for
Photos: Above left, examples of 3D printing. Below, a 3D printer with example.
possible use in tissue engineering applications in which organs and body parts are built using inkjet techniques. In this process, layers of living cells are deposited onto a gel medium or sugar matrix and slowly built up to form three-dimensional structures including vascular systems. Several terms have been used to refer to this field of research: organ printing, bio-printing, body part printing, and computer-aided tissue engineering, among others. 3D printing can produce a personalised hip replacement in one pass, with the ball permanently inside the socket and is available in printing resolutions that don't require polishing. A proof-of-principle project at the University of Glasgow, UK, in 2012 showed that it is possible to use 3D printing techniques to create chemical
29 S G
Community
Moss graffiti, also called eco-graffiti or green graffiti, replaces spray paint, paint-markers or other such toxic chemicals and paints with creatively-applied moss that can grow on its own. As people become more eco-friendly and environmentally aware, the idea of making living, breathing graffiti has become an interesting green, inspired outlet for graffiti artists. We looks at how it's being done.
INGREDIENTS
STEPS
•
One or two clumps (about a small handful) of moss
•
Gather up as much moss as you can find or buy
•
2 cups of buttermilk
•
Wash the moss to get as much soil out of the roots
•
You can also substitute with yoghurt (vegan yoghurt can be used)
•
2 cups of water
•
½ tsp sugar
•
Corn syrup (optional)
as possible. •
place in blender. •
A paint brush
•
A blender
•
Moss
Add the buttermilk/yoghurt, water and sugar. Blend the mixture until completely smooth. You'll want it to have a paint-like texture. (If the mixture is at
THINGS YOU'LL NEED •
Break the moss apart into manageable pieces and
a consistency where you feel it will drip, add corn syrup until the consistency you desire is reached.) •
Use a paintbrush to apply the moss-paint to the surface on which you wish your design to grow.
•
If possible, check back weekly to either spray the design with water (to encourage moss growth, especially if you live in a dry environment) or apply
Graffiti art, unless done with a public art permit, is probably not legal in your area. This article does not endorse illegal art, but does suggest that the graffiti can be done in or around your home or with a permit.
S G 30
more moss-paint. SOURCE: www.wikihow.com/Make-Moss-Graffiti
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WATCH THESE!
Photo bumtheary.com
Photo inspirates.net
E co
estate
mergingnature Eco-estate development is the latest buzz-phrase in the real estate industry. However, the drive towards sustainable development and the responsible preservation of our natural heritage is not a new concept. A number of successful developments in South Africa have been implementing the core values of creating and maintaining real estate projects to the benefit of both the environment and the investor. We take a look at one such estate that is an example of a successful enviro-restoration project through responsible development.
O
riginally launched in 2003, Cathkin Estates is the
considerations were on the top of the agenda during
result of a long-term vision and determination to
the planning stages and still form the core of the
transform a cattle ranch into an eco-estate. The
entire project. The development was designed to be
Stockil family have farmed in the Winterton area for over
energy-efficient and water-sensitive, without impacting
130 years where they initially leased the farm, but bought
on the functionality of the units. All water is supplied
it in 1962 and successfully farmed in this frost-free
from dams on the property through a gravity-fed system,
enclave in the Drakensberg for many years. With time, the
and each unit has its own septic tank, and the use of
dream of establishing an eco-friendly estate on the farm
anaerobic sewage systems is encouraged.
grew into the success story of today.
S G 32
The estate, with its high biodiversity, is controlled
Brothers Pete and Mark initiated the process in 1986.
by a detailed Environmental Management Plan (EMP) to
Despite encountering their fair share of resistance,
protect its rich natural heritage. This grassland biome is
they persisted with the project planning. Environmental
one of SA's most endangered habitats with less than 1% of
the grasslands officially protected. Apart from a 100-year
and unsightly satellite dishes are hidden from view. Home
old oak forest, a timber plantation and some other relics
owners can garden around their properties, but may
of the past owners, such as an old farmhouse and a fruit
only use indigenous plants. They are also encouraged to
orchard, the estate consists of natural bush and veld only.
install solar panels for water heating.
All farming-related land has been rehabilitated.
The establishment of Cathkin Estates is not only an
Cathkin Estates is divided into five villages – each with
environmental success, but also a great employment
a unique character and location. All stands are on the
opportunity story. The estate provides jobs to many
western slopes of the ridges and spread out so that the
of the local villagers. Building, maintenance, cleaning,
villages are separated from each other's view. Each stand
gardening and security are all newly created and sorely
has unobstructed views of the Berg. Villages 1-3 formed
needed jobs in a rural area.
part of the initial launch and were sold out within months, while Villages 4 and 5 are now ready for release.
A variety of services as well as an array of activities is on offer, not just on the estate but also in the Valley.
The design of homes is governed by guidelines
Apart from the numerous activities such as biking, trout
allowing individual expression within a generic Berg
fishing, hiking and horse riding, the developers are also
theme, while minimising disruption to the environment.
planning two Bush Camps to allow property owners
The architectural guidelines form the basis of the
the option of a night's camping in the bush in a safe
environmental considerations and include specifications
environment.
for exterior home finishes to ensure all homes blend in
Offering
exceptional
lifestyle
and
investment
with the natural environment. Rustic natural materials are
opportunities, the Cathkin Estates story makes this a truly
encouraged, with sandstone, rock and roughened plaster
unique South African investment opportunity.
SG
used to blend into the surroundings. Colours are planned For more information on investment options contact
recessed, shaded or tinted windows minimise reflection,
0861 002 444, www.cathkinestates.com, or see ad below.
ED
CH
UN
LA
JU
ST
VI
LL
AG
E4
&5
to harmonise with nature's palette. Matt surfaces and
THE SUMMIT OF BERG LIVING
Land | Home Packages | Co-Ownership Units Nestled up against the Drakensberg World Heritage Site is Cathkin Estates, a 1000 hectare residential estate that provides a feast of wildlife, berg views and outdoor activities. With a variety of freehold land and home options, this is the family estate of your dreams. Only 2.5 hours from Durban and 4 hours from Gauteng.
E s t at e A t t r ac t i on s Mountain biking • Trout fishing • Game viewing • Running and walking trails Bird hides • Community facilities and kids entertainment Close proximity to a variety of facilities in the Champagne Valley
0861 002 444 I www.cathkinestates.com
33 S G
Home
ecomo homes Eco-homes have projects in Franschhoek (pictured here), Paarl and Stanford in the Overberg.
The ecomo home is a compact home designed for modern, simple living in collaboration with nature. We take a look.
S G 34
Eco-mobile The Eco-mobile is a 40 foot (13m) container size steel frame manufactured in its entirety off-site.
C
lad with wooden panels and timber flooring, this unit consists of a bedroom with bathroom and a kitchenette with living space. Various panels can be flipped down to create outdoor areas and also increase the living space towards the outside. The hybrid energy and the bio-toilet component allow this unit to be placed anywhere and be completely self-sufficient. This temporary structure doesn’t require foundations. Instead, footings will anchor the unit to the ground in a non-invasive and easy removable manner.
T
he design behind ecomo homes is based on basic sustainable, green design principles. The home offers
a low-maintenance, modern, well-designed green housing alternative – an innovative solution to the residential market in that it responds and adapts to the changing modes of living related to the modern condition. In an age of sensory overload it is important for many to be able to escape the concrete jungle and enjoy time in natural surroundings. It was with this at heart that the ecomo was conceived. The home affords a wider group of people this luxury and creates spaces that
ď ™
are earth- and human-friendly. 'With a
35 S G
'Architecture and Nature are the two guiding principles behind Ecomo. Its goal is not to separate these two elements but rather to synergise them to create designs that are coherent with the environment.' Ximena Farfan
ď ™
responsible approach to intrinsic design aspects and to the environment in which we live, the ecomo home is the best solution to a conscious lifestyle,' says the company. The ecomo system commits to creating flexibility for the user while still responding to larger enviro-responsibilities, and all within a contemporary international quality setting. The home concept consists of three units: 5m x 5m modules can be arranged to the client’s need or some of these elements can simply be added at a later stage. This offers a big freedom to simply increase the size of the house when needed. The ecomo home is a predesigned, prefabricated, customised home, offering numerous options in layout, size and finish. These custom designs allow unique solutions for unique sites and are sustainable, thoughtfully designed, modular systems. This guarantees high levels of quality as construction takes place at an off-site factory and offers a truly streamlined process, as well as predictable timeframes and costs for their clients. Further, through factory-based construction, impact on the new home-site is minimised.
SG
For more info, visit here.
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CONTRIBUTORS ADVISORY
37 S G
A d v er t o r i a l
Remotely Track and Switch Your Energy Devices in Real-Time Ok, so you know that we are all under pressure to cut our energy usage, both to head off rolling blackouts and to cut down on expensive energy wastage. But, practically speaking, when you are at work, how do you ensure that the energy being used at home is in line with what is most cost- and energy-efficient for you? Well, there's an answer for that – and it's dead easy too.
n Australian company with local offices in Johannesburg, carbonTRACK, has come up with a 'remote intelligent data device', run by a computer-based 'visually smart control portal', which allows you to switch key components in your home on and off remotely. And it's super-easy to use and understand, no high-end programming required. carbonTRACK has also partnered with a local distribution company, SASSA, the Solar Academy of Sub-Saharan Africa, with a nation-wide franchise network for ease of access to its product, a dedicated call centre and after-sales service. The company has localised some of the components and there are also plans to set up a local assembly line in the near future. This company says its solution to optimising home energy usage is 'suitable for the medium – to high-income residential market, assisting in improving end-user energy-efficiency, for both renewable and conventional energy devices'. carbonTRACK's solution features a 'savvy, consumer-orientated interface'. This allows for energy-efficient living without the sweat, giving the user a pathway to more sustainable living in a smart, visible, transparent manner. As a controller, it makes operating and using energy devices like hot water geysers, solar water heating systems, pool pumps and even air conditioners, convenient and seamless, thereby saving energy and providing households with control. The carbonTRACK solution keeps your energy device settings at your fingertips, making energy data personal and transparent. Here are some of its key benefits:
A
1 Real-time monitoring and data reporting access Intrinsic to its capability, home-owners and service providers will have real-time access to various data parameters which are continuously measured and monitored; these include power used or generated, tank temperature and time usage settings.
2 Pre-emptive maintenance and under-performance carbonTRACK also has the option of flood alert sensory and leak detection functionality, which can assist in preventing collateral damage in the event of geyser failure. An alert can be sent via the GSM/GPRS network from carbonTRACK to service providers about the geyser failure, providing the householder with peace of mind. carbonTRACK, with its remote sensing capabilities, can signal service providers if certain critical parameters are exceeded.
3 Behaviour change platform carbonTRACK provides consumers with transparent energy usage patterns to help them manage electricity consumption. Families and businesses have access to real-time information about their usage patterns, helping them to save money. The real-time data display can have a significant effect on the energy-use behaviour of individuals, families and businesses. Behaviour change is encouraged by real-time energy information and feedback via the carbonTRACK interface, driving greater energy and environmental savings.
4 Reduced auditing costs Installers and suppliers can access any problems remotely and notify end-users of any imminent problems, thereby reducing call-out fees.
5 Convert existing hot water systems into smart systems carbonTRACK is an incremental step in terms of adopting a low-carbon lifestyle. Your existing hot water system can utilise the features of carbonTRACK to not only save you money, but also give you greater transparency of your energy usage patterns.
6 Optimised for multiple interfaces: engaging and user-centric The carbonTRACK interface is optimised for various mobile, desktop and web platforms with data displayed in a visually appealing, consumer-orientated manner. Our user-centric design makes for a uniquely engaging experience; historical performance data is easily accessible from the interface.
7 Early warning leak detection With carbonTRACK's remote alert functionality, end-users will know immediately if water is collecting in their geyser's drip tray signalling geyser leakage. This real-time alert can assist in avoiding collateral damage from a damaged or leaking geyser.
8 Push notifications, real-time communications gateway Service providers and installers will find the online interface an effective communications channel with their customers. carbonTRACK can assist end-users by providing them with the latest news and tips and offers on electricity savings. As a result, customer relationships may be considerably strengthened; the carbonTRACK interface improves communication with end-users as they receive pertinent information, like electricity price signals, via the interface. The system allows for unique 'push' notifications which may be used for education and real-time alerts, as well as product and service offerings. End-users may access smart visualised information on their phones, tablets or the web. The online interface is a cost-effective marketing channel, complementing other communications channels like media, radio and web.
9 Modular scalability: control and monitoring of other electrical and household appliances The installation and operation is intuitive and therefore calculates a large number of application scenarios. Via carbonTRACK's expansion ports, end-users can choose to control selected energy devices via tablets, smartphones or the web; individual program settings are also possible.
10 Timer & switching functionality carbonTRACK is capable of adjusting to various blocks of ON or OFF timer settings in response to peak and off-peak periods as well as holiday mode. Built into its intelligence, its switching capability is able to control energy using systems such as solar water heating systems, pool pumps and more, from the convenience of a phone or tablet.
11 Switch off energy devices during peak load times The built-in timer settings will assist end-users to switch energy devices off during peak load times and thus complement public awareness campaigns like those encouraging stabilisation of the grid.
For info: www.carbontrack.co.za, 011 513 4060 or irvan@carbontrack.com.au
O ff
the grid
A PV installation by AM Solar at Woodlands International School in Impala Park, Benoni • A diagram of the Solar Window design
A large PV array using 230W SolarWorld Solar Panels and using the SolarWorld mounting. racks.
A typical Power Room: Hoppeke 2v Battery Cells, Victron 15kW Grid Inverters and SMA SunnyBoy PV String Inverters.
Alastair from AM Solar programming the PV system.
Silent Sun
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A silent revolution is taking place in the world of electrical energy. Roger Metcalfe reports.
T
he price of quality electrical components is
themselves charged by sunlight, and work like a
dropping, even as Eskom prices continue
large UPS back-up system, supplying after-hours
to rise. This means that for an increasing
power to such items as lights, security system and
number of applications, solar electric or photovoltaic
computers.
power (PV) is now making increasing financial sense.
Electrical engineer Alastair Armstrong's system
We keep hearing about solar water heaters and
is similar in principle to those small garden LED
heat pumps, yet few think about generating their
lights with a small PV panel on the top. During the
own electricity using PV. But this technology is fast
day sunlight charges the batteries via the small
emerging into the light.
photovoltaic panel. At sundown these fully charged
When PV is mentioned, it's immediately written off as unrealistic and too costly. But the wheel turns and for many reasons which I unpack below, it's now becoming more viable and proven in the field.
batteries then power the light throughout the night. Why did the owner of this school opt to go the PV route might you ask?
There are many reasons.
But what exactly is PV? This is where a silicone-based solar (photovoltaic) panel converts sunlight directly into electricity. On a sunny South African day one photovoltaic
Benefits of a well-designed PV system: Cheaper than Eskom, especially in the medium to long term.
panel of 1m2 can generate around 1KW of electrical
A fairly high capital investment but a short
energy, enough to boil a kettle of water in two
payback period of 1.9 years, thereafter totally
minutes. This is astounding and proves the
free electricity from the sun.
extremely high solar radiation we enjoy at this
A saving over 20 years of over R3m.
southern tip of Africa. This is quite different to a solar water heating
A performance warranty of 20 years or more (Service Level Agreement).
panel which contains water heated by the sun. The
Energy security and energy independence. An
dual use of the term 'solar panel' is what confuses
asset in itself.
most non-technical people.
Immunity from future Eskom price increases.
The truth is too few are capitalising on the
Immunity from Eskom power outages.
phenomenal power of our African sun to generate
Increased value of the 'green' property (5-10%
electric power.
according to the American Appraisal Institute).
But it's happening. Take a look.
A low-carbon footprint/tax and compliance with
Not many people realise for example that there
enviro-ethics.
exists a primary school on the East Rand that
Totally silent system with low maintenance.
operates purely on solar energy – it doesn't even
Aesthetically acceptable panels, especially when
have a power line from Eskom.
mounted flush on a north-facing roof.
This is energy security and energy independence at its best. The array of photovoltaic (PV) panels
Virtually zero running costs once the capital has been repaid.
powers the whole school during the day and there
PV as a market differentiator. 'Green' businesses
is a small battery bank to run the operation when
simply sell better.
the sun no longer shines. These batteries are
A financial 'no-brainer'.
Revolution 41 S G
The beauty of green design
during the day, and a PV system can take the company
Any technician with a bakkie can install panels on
computers, copiers, lights, security systems and more.
your roof, but if the entire energy picture is not taken
If more power is needed, then more panels are simply
into consideration, it can be a costly, unreliable affair.
installed on the roof and inverters reprogrammed to
This is why a 'green rational design' is so important.
power assist.
In fact, system design is critical to reliability and to cost-effectiveness.
off Eskom power to a lesser or greater degree. PV can power all appliances including air-conditioners,
Before he installs any solar power generating system, Alastair first takes a good look at the
The problem is that true specialists are few and
establishment. As every building is different, he does
far between – engineers capable of integrating the
a site assessment for solar orientation plus a load
multi-level parameters, able to design cost-effective,
assessment.
reliable PV systems.
In order to design the system correctly, Alastair
If such specialist engineers exist, then ladies and
compiles and delivers an initial Sustainability and
gentlemen, please stand up and be counted, for your
Energy Analysis Report. He calculates countless
time has arrived.
variables including solar orientation and what sort of
Alastair Armstrong, owner of AM Solar, is already
loads his PV system will be subjected to.
standing, and like a surfer he's beginning to ride
PV installations. These he monitors remotely and
Solar energy modelling
wirelessly. The installations are in the form of blue PV
Before designing his solar generating system, Alastair
icons on his map.
never fails to addresses the building's passive energy
the solar energy wave. On Google map he monitors his growing number of off-grid and grid-interactive
Off-grid
means
zero
Eskom
power,
while
grid-interactive (or grid-tied) means Eskom is used
aspects. For example, how can energy inefficiencies be minimised or eliminated?
only as back-up. Grid-interactive is often a most
Insulation, which is comparatively cheap, is a good
practical, cost-effective compromise, certainly cheaper
example of how to manage passive energy intelligently.
than batteries and less noisy and smelly than diesel
A well-insulated, well-ventilated building does not get
generators.
hot from the sun (solar gain) meaning air-conditioners
If the PV icon on Alastair's Google map changes
need to work less, if at all. And if the building is able
from blue to red he knows, even before his client does,
to warm itself in winter (through solar gain), then
that attention is needed. He can not only diagnose
heaters are unnecessary. Lighting is also addressed.
issues remotely, but can solve many problems from
Together these are big consumers of electrical energy,
his mobile laptop. But to date he's only seen blue PV
particularly in a commercial environment.
icons spreading across his Gauteng map. PV Systems,
When these factors are taken into consideration,
especially when intelligently designed, are virtually
the result is a financially attractive, reliable, highly
zero-defect, highly reliable systems.
sustainable on-roof PV solution.
His marketing thrust is now aimed more at
Only once the building's energy profile has been
financial decision makers and business owners rather
calculated, does Alastair design his PV system for
than at technical decision makers. He has already
optimum performance. This can be in either single or
demonstrated the viability of his systems to previously
three phase, depending on the load. Peak loads are
skeptical, heavy-weight electrical engineers. And his
also taken into consideration. This shows how good
secret lies in what he terms his 'rational green designs'.
design translates into an efficient, high performance
Due to economies of scale Alastair's designs are
solar electrical energy.
financially more attractive to the commercial rather
It's time engineers, architects, developers and all
than to the residential sector where the payback period
those in the construction industry shift their thinking
is slightly longer. However, his domestic designs
and start harnessing the awesome solar power with
remain highly effective and owners are more than
which we are so blessed in SA.
SG
satisfied with their energy independence. The reality is that most commercial businesses operate mainly
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Contact Roger roger@global.co.za for more info.
A step in the right direction
Photo www.energyet.com
The Energy Barometer Survey, run by Energy Cybernetics, is an annual event to create an awareness of company's energy consumption levels and their emissions footprint, with a view to become more enviro-aware. We take a look at the latest results.
T
he top performers in the National Energy Barometer Survey for 2011 are: Central Energy Fund (CEF) House, for a second consecutive year, the winner
of the Head Office category, runner-up is Exxaro Corporate Centre and in third place, Anglo Gold Ashanti. We take a look further. Categories assessed in the 2011 survey included Head Offices, Hospitals, Hotels, and Motor Car Dealers, however due to non-disclosure agreements not all winners in all categories may be announced. Three Cities Group of Hotels had three hotels that performed top of the Group and took 1st to 3rd place, while Mediclinic in the Hospital category entered purely to assess its own internal portfolio to assist them in making informed energy-efficiency investment decisions. Optimising a building envelope through standards and regulations is only a step in the right direction. The National Energy Barometer Survey encourages companies to become aware of their energy consumption levels when operating a building and to assist them to optimise their energy usage. The results improve profits, contribute to the national economy, while providing a platform for comparison and learning. The Energy Barometer process poses no risk to a participant as they will never be 'named and shamed' and company-specific information remains confidential. It is up to each participant to decide what may be disclosed. The Energy Barometer is a useful tool to steer energy managers in the right direction and is being used by many companies to decide which buildings in their portfolios will deliver the most significant impact from energy management perspectives. When considering embarking on the energy efficiency road, the question usually asked is 'Where do we start?' With building portfolios, the Energy Barometer is the answer to benchmark a portfolio of buildings against each other so that the building with the most potential to deliver energy savings can be identified as a starting point.
SG
Visit www.energycybernetics.com for more.
43 S G
Buildings
Energy Usage in Buildings Explained T
he NERSA (National Energy Regulator of
guideline setting out the design requirements
South Africa) agreement, granting Eskom
for energy efficiency in buildings and building
significant tariff increases per year over
SANS 204 stipulates the R-values – the measure
clear position – energy saving must be implemented
of resistance to heat transfer – required for all
now as a priority. The incorporation of passive
elements in the building envelope, including
energy-efficiency measures in new buildings, homes
floors, walls, roofs and ceilings.
and retrofits, is the most obvious starting point.
Recommendations for the ‘R-value' are based on
This is one of the initiatives being driven by the
the climatic conditions in particular locations.
national Department of Trade and Industry, with
The deemed-to-satisfy provisions are based on
the aim to reduce the country’s current energy
climate zones, including dry bulb temperatures,
consumption levels. In doing so, greater efficiencies
thermal neutrality, humidity and southern
on a long-term basis may be achieved as more time
coastal condensation risk.
will be made available for new-build power stations to reach their full operational capacity, thereby changing energy usage patterns.
WHAT IS SANS 10400-XA?
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services.
three years also places building owners in a very
OBJECTIVE OF SANS 10400-XA The objective of SANS 10400-XA is to encourage and enforce the saving of energy in buildings – which are big users of energy at residential,
SANS 10400-XA, to a large extent, is based
commercial and industrial scale.
on and refers to SANS 204, which was first
SANS 10400 – XA essentially tackles how
introduced in 2008 as a voluntary best practice
buildings are designed and built by addressing
Image gogreencyclopedia.blogspot.com
The urgency for substantial new power-generating capacity, as well as the reduction of current energy consumption levels in South Africa, has become exceedingly evident over time. The newly legislated SANS 10400-XA: 2011 (November 2011) – which forms part of the National Building Regulations – is set to change the way we build in South Africa by governing energy usage in buildings. We take a closer look. and providing guidelines for minimum
building refurbishments where the window area
requirements for things such as glazing,
amounts to more than 15% of the net floor
insulation, shading, orientation and building
area are dependent on the projects’ compliance
services, including air-conditioning, hot water
with the requirements of SANS 204 and SANS
and lighting.
10400-XA.
The regulations will eliminate the structural
Evidence of compliance requires the backup of
constraints which resulted in a major
recognised certificates of performance from the
disconnect between what was in the best
manufacturers of respective products.
interests of building developer clients (in other
Compliance must be substantiated with any
words, fundamentally to build for the least cost
building plan submitted to a municipality for
and to rent for the most possible) and on the
plan approval.
other hand undiscerning tenants and building purchasers, who are unaware that they are purchasing energy-inefficient buildings and burdening their businesses in the future.
HOW THE OBJECTIVE OF SANS 10400-XA WILL BE REACHED This is done by imposing regulations to ensure
REQUIREMENTS OF SANS 10400-XA Regulations are compulsory and applicable to all new buildings and building refurbishments. Buildings with a window area of up to 15% of the net floor area are exempt, affording some leeway specifically for low-cost and government-
buildings are built more energy-efficient,
subsidised housing.
Plan approvals for all new buildings and
All new buildings erected after the 10th of
45 S G
the amount of energy required for heating and cooling; Image wide-wallpapers.net
Fenestration (windows & frames) which are appropriately orientated and sized with protection from winter heat loss and summer heat gain, allowing for cross-ventilation in summer for cooling; Thermal insulation in roofs, ceilings, walls and floors; Good draught proofing; November 2011 must comply with the new
Efficient hot water system and fittings, located
Energy Efficiency Regulations. Buildings will be
close to user station;
classified according to the area in which they
Efficient lighting and appliances;
are to be built.
Landscape design that assists in modifying the
In accordance with these areas, a thermal rating
microclimate for more comfortable conditions.
must be acquired. This will be done by sealing
New building products and materials are already
the structure and applying thermal insulation.
being developed, and existing products are
All SANS 204 requirements are classified in
being modified and improved, to meet or better
terms of six different climatic zones across the
the performance requirements set out in SANS
country, and vary accordingly.
204 and SANS 10400-XA.
Zone 1, described as 'cold interior', includes Johannesburg and Bloemfontein as major centres falling into this zone
BENEFITS OF SANS 10400-XA New buildings in SA will be some 30–50% more
Zone 2 is described as 'temperate interior' and
efficient than those built prior to 2012.
includes Pretoria and Polokwane.
These buildings will cost more as a result of
Zone 3 covers centres such as Louis Trichardt
the regulations being applied, but the extra
and Nelspruit and is described as 'hot interior'.
cost would have a financial pay-back which was
Zone 4 being 'temperate coastal' and includes
measured in a few months to a few years.
areas such as Cape Town and Port Elizabeth.
Under the National Energy Act, 2008
Zone 5 is described as 'sub-tropical coastal' and
Regulations on the allowance for
this would include Durban, Richards Bay and East
energy-efficiency savings, companies can
London.
submit certificates of energy savings, issued by
Zone 6 is described as 'arid interior' and covers
accredited persons, to SARS for a credit on their
areas such as Kimberley and Upington.
tax return. This government initiative further
The use of solar geysers and/or heat exchange
incentivises SA businesses to reduce their
units will become compulsory.
energy consumption. Interested parties will need to register with the
HOW IS ENERGY-EFFICIENCY ACHIEVED?
(SANEDI) and then appoint a measurement and
While each of the six climate zones have
verification professional to compile a comprehensive
different heating and cooling needs, the same
report on the energy-efficiency savings achieved.
principles of energy efficient design apply,
South African National Energy Development Institute
This report will then be submitted to SANEDI who
with their application varying slightly, requiring
will issue that organisation with a certificate that
different levels of insulation or thermal mass.
can then be submitted to SARS who calculate the
Building orientation – main living areas to the
relevant tax return.
SG
north to receive unobstructed winter sun; Internal planning to create zones which reduce
S G 46
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Buildings
Building Biology
Turning Your Home Green & Healthy From The Inside Out
Building Biology originated in Germany during the '70s in reaction to all the toxic contaminants introduced into the built environment. From there it spread to the rest of Europe, North America and Australia where it is now an established and recognised practice. In its true sense, Building Biology is a green building philosophy that concerns itself with the indoor environment and focuses on how people react to building materials, indoor air pollution, radio magnetic radiation and geopathic stress. It also looks at the impact the home and household have on the environment. Wynand Koch breaks it down for us.
M
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ost people have the misconception that
Control and Prevention (2011), indoor air pollution
air quality outside is far more polluted
now kills 2.2 million young Chinese annually.
than indoors, but according to current
Many of the building materials, finishes and
research, indoor air can be up to ten times more
furniture we use nowadays give off volatile organic
polluted. According to the China Center for Disease
compounds that are detrimental to our health
If we truly want to go green we have to start where we as individuals can have the greatest impact – our homes. Any person who is concerned about the environment and the health of their family should look at how they live and start making the changes necessary to lead healthier lifestyles and to limit our impact on the environment.
the home, or building, in order to identify any indoor air pollutants, radio magnetic radiation and geopathic stress. Recommendations are then made to ensure good indoor air quality, and all building materials and furniture are tested for volatile organic compounds. Electromagnetic radiation is measured with various instruments and where these cause 'hot spots', recommendations are made on how to avoid them. Where necessary, shielding is also applied. The building biologist will also test for any geopathic stress, whereafter furniture such as beds and seating areas will be moved to safer areas. In some cases, and if necessary, an appropriate
and the environment. One of the most common is
remedy will be applied.
formaldehyde; the same chemical scientists use to
The final step in the Building Health Assessment
preserve dead bodies. Formaldehyde is a known
would be to turn the home, or building, green and
carcinogen (cancer-causing chemical), but is still
organic by introducing organic and enviro-friendly
widely used as a preservative and binding agent in
household
almost every household product.
materials and furniture. Our greatest exposure
products,
personal
care
products,
Radio magnetic radiation includes electromagnetic
to harmful substances is right in our own homes
fields and electromagnetic waves. Electromagnetic
and these are found in the cleaning products and
fields are found around all electrical appliances
personal care items we use, even the food we eat.
and electrical wiring in the walls of buildings. Any
Every day we use household products that contain
equipment that uses cordless transmission, such as
harmful chemicals. Most people assume that the
mobile phones and the internet, uses microwaves,
ones used in our soaps, cosmetics and food have
a source of electromagnetic waves. We cannot see,
been proven safe for the environment, our families
feel or hear these waves, yet they continuously
and children. Unfortunately, that assumption is
surround us. They are unnatural and have a very
wrong. There are basically none or very limited
short wavelength, and because of this they create
laws that require analysis for the chemicals we use.
a biological risk for all of us. The effect that these
Further, according to the Environmental Working
fields and waves have on the immune and nervous
Group (a non-profit organisation providing useful
systems is especially concerning. With a suppressed
and scientific resources to assess a wide array of
immune system come more colds, coughs, longer
toxic contaminants), chemicals found in the built
illnesses, depression, fatigue and a higher chance
environment are now linked to serious long-term
of infectious disease and cancer.
health effects, from childhood cancer and autism
Geopathic stress is the general term for energies
to learning deficits, infertility and heart disease. We
emanating from the earth that causes discomfort and
also need to remember that in the end every toxic
ill health in people. Some of these occur naturally
product we use in our homes ultimately ends up in
such as deposits of particular types of minerals in
the environment.
the ground and some are caused by the interference
If we truly want to go green we have to start
of humans on the environment by disruptions
where we as individuals can have the greatest
in the earth's magnetic and gravitational field
impact – our homes. Any person who is concerned
through building construction, mining, construction
about the environment and the health of their family
of dams, excavations, and so forth. Because of their
should look at how they live and start making the
detrimental effect, they are often known as negative
changes necessary to lead healthier lifestyles and to
earth energies. These negative energies directly
limit our impact on the environment.
affect our body's ability to fight infection and
Home is where the heart is, and it is now the
disease. Insomnia, hyperactivity and chronic illness
time to look after the health of our homes and start
are all indications of negative energies.
healing them from all the toxic contaminants – and
In building biology, the building biologist will conduct a 'Building Health Assessment' of
by doing this we ultimately heal ourselves and the earth we all call home.
SG
49 S G
Buildings 'We have a responsibility as a company, as an employer and as a visitor on this planet to live as sustainably as possible. This is the only way we can survive long-term and hand over to our children in a responsible manner.'
from the ground up Mario and Annemarie Delicio of Dematech are the owners behind Hotel Verde – Africa's greenest hotel. Dedicated and passionate about sustainability, they have transformed what was initially just a sensible business proposition into a showcase for some of the most advanced environmentally-conscious technological installations as well as construction and operation practices in the world. We take a look.
C
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onstruction on Hotel Verde,
And the team at Hotel Verde have
which is a part of the recently
gone to the greatest extent yet seen
launched BON Hotels group,
on the continent – from locally-sourced
began over a year ago just outside Cape
suppliers to sustainable practices on the
Town International Airport, with a team
building site to multiple ways in which
of contractors and experts dedicated to
they can generate their own electricity
finding the alternative. 'If you look at what
and reduce waste to almost zero.
can be done from a green angle you look
'We have an advantage because we
at energy, water and waste reduction,'
are starting from scratch. We could
Delicio explains. 'You then take each
go from choosing recycled bricks and
of these areas and work out how to
insulation, to installing a geothermal
implement alternatives, generating your
field, coupled to ground-source heat
own electricity for example. Then you
pumps. When you build new you can
need to explore the extent to which you
plan much more than if you retrofit an
can go.'
existing building.'
and
cleverly positioned to provide shade as well as
founder of Ecolution Consulting, is a trained
power. 'They are mounted on the north façade of
mechanical engineer and the expertise behind
the building so as to not only generate electricity
some of the more technical aspects of the building.
but create shading for the windows that get the
Having spent 15 months at the South African
most sun.'
André
Harms,
Sustainability
Manager
Research Centre in Antarctica, Harms knows what it
Another step is to dramatically reduce the
is to value everyday resources and is applying this
amount of concrete required by utilising Cobiax void
dedication to each facet of the project. 'We have
formers – recycled plastic balls placed strategically
the opportunity to change the status quo here,' he
within the concrete slabs that are required for
says. 'We have looked at different ways of doing
the various floors. They displace the concrete,
everything, right from the word go.'
saving approximately 535m3 or 1 284 tons while
This includes the photovoltaic (solar) panels
maintaining the structural integrity.
51 S G
Hotel
Verde
also
boasts
a
sophisticated
grey-water recycling plant that will contribute towards a 37% reduction of potable water use. 'We have run a network of pipes through the building in order to reticulate the grey water, collect it and supply it to the toilets,' Harms explains. They will also be utilising a rainwater filtering and capture system to provide water for the car wash and irrigation. The elevators will run on a regenerative drive, which will allow for about 30% of the input energy to be recaptured and fed back into the building, and double-glazed windows with spectrally selective glass will filter out hot rays, so less heat enters the building reducing the need for air-conditioning.
ABOVE: Guy Stehlik (left), founder of Bon Hotels, the company appointed to manage the Hotel Verde, with Samantha Annandale, Hotel Verde GM; and Mario Delicio, the man behind the development of what is said to be Africa’s greenest hotel.
In order to bypass the need for standard air-conditioning systems, traditionally one of the biggest energy consumers, Hotel Verde will utilise
thrilled to be involved in a project of this nature.'
ground source heat pumps made by 100 holes drilled
Despite the fact that this is the first of its kind,
about 76m into the ground, where the temperature
the Hotel Verde team doesn't want it to be a secret;
is a consistent 19ÂşC. Renowned German supplier
they want to share their convictions with anyone
AGO Energy will install a complex network of piping
who'll listen. 'We might have the slogan 'Africa's
and equipment specifically designed for Hotel Verde
Greenest Hotel' right now, but we hope it won't
that uses the earth as a heat source in winter and
be for long,' says Harms. 'We want to show the
'heat sink' in summer, boosting efficiency and
continent what can be done. We want to challenge
dramatically reducing operational costs.
the industry as a whole.'
'There is no other hotel in Africa that has gone
SG
to the extent that we are hoping to achieve,' Delicio
ABOUT BON Hotels
says. 'But going green is not just about the building,
BON Hotels was founded in 2012 by Guy Stehlik
it's about every aspect of the operation; zero waste
who, along with the handpicked management team,
to landfill for example. We might never reach that,
have 100 years of collective experience in hospitality.
but with the ideas we have in mind we will come
They focus on every aspect of hotel management and
pretty close.'
operation, with the specific needs of the owners in mind.
Open to the public in August 2013, the hotel
By structuring a partnership with hotel owners, BON
plans to incentivise guests with credit notes and bar
Hotels delivers above average market-related returns
tabs for those who utilise towels more than once,
and improved viability. BON Hotels seeks to only take
for example, or don't use the air-conditioning. 'It's
on those hotels they are convinced they can add value
about getting customers involved and making them
to, which will mean that their growth is relatively gradual,
a part of the whole green thinking philosophy,'
however, this approach, along with their excellent
Delicio explains.
management infrastructure and unique fee structure,
Guy Stehlik, founder of BON Hotels, who will
will result in ethical, transparent long term business
manage and operate Hotel Verde, says that the
relationships. With BON Hotels on board for a property
value of being involved in a project of this nature,
opening or major repositioning, clients are guaranteed
plus its learning in terms of future hotels, is
to work alongside hotel management experts with years
invaluable. 'The three cornerstones of BON Hotels
of experience in development, opening and ongoing
are: Good People; Good Thinking; and Good Feeling.
operational procedures.
Hotel Verde and the philosophy behind it is where
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the good thinking lies. This is definitely one of the
FOR MORE INFO: www.bonhotels.co.za,
most innovative hotels in the country and we are
www.hotelverde.co.za
'People tend to focus on the here and now. The problem is that, once global warming is something that most people can feel in the course of their daily lives, it will be too late to prevent much larger, potentially catastrophic changes.' - Elizabeth Kolbert
Leaks and leak fixing ‘Toilets’ A worn-out washer at the outlet port or flush valve from the cistern to the bowl can cause leaks into the toilet bowl.
Website Website Contact Leaks Faulty washers at the side intake valve to the cistern can cause water to leak into the cistern, which over time can cause an overflow of water into the toilet bowl.
A misaligned filler float or floating arm can cause an overflow of water into the cistern, which can cause wasted water to spill over into the toilet bowl.
http://howjunction.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/Top88.bmp
For more information on how to fix these toilet leaks click on the ‘Leaks’ link above.
For more information on being Water Wise® please visit www.randwater.co.za and click on the Water Wise logo or contact us on 0860 10 10 60.
Keith Anderson | Chairman keith@ewasa.org www.ewasa.org Mobile Office Fax2Email Skype
27 82 553 0373 27 31 575 8100 27 86 625 9913 keitha1909
Suite 304, Granada Square, 16 Chatwell Drive, Umhlanga Roacks, 4320, SA Postnet Suite 160, Private Bag X01, Umhlanga Rocks, 4320, SA
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Building News
Vodacom breaks SA solar panel record
Vodacom has recently unveiled the largest solar array of panels on a single building in Africa at its offices in Century City, Cape Town. The installation of the solar array is part of Vodacom’s ongoing drive to help reduce the amount of energy the company consumes. The solar array is expected to provide up to 75% of all electricity power required by the building during peak activity. The electricity produced will feed into the two main distribution boards and a display panel, installed in the reception area of the building, and will display instantaneous power produced (yield), energy yield and carbon emission savings. Vodacom’s Chief Officer: Corporate Affairs, Maya Makanjee, says: 'Vodacom recently became a voluntary signatory to the Energy Efficiency Leadership Network which aims to help improve energy-efficiency in SA. This commitment complements our existing environmental and sustainability efforts to reduce carbon emissions within the organisation by 5% per annum until 2014.' In keeping with Vodacom’s commitment to investment in local communities, all the roof tiles that were removed were donated to a community centre project in the Delft area, ensuring that the roof tiles were re-used.
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Green building for beginners
If you are in the planning stages to build a green home, here are the basics you need to consider: A green home is conventionally small. Reduce air leakage – airtight construction methods are essential. Specify insulation with a higher R-value than the minimum values required by the GBCSA (Green Building Council SA). Most recommended insulation materials can be used. Specify windows with the right type of glazing to improve energy-efficiency. The ductwork must be located inside your home’s thermal envelope. Do not allow your designer or builder to locate ducts in a vented crawl space or a vented attic. Air-tight homes need a mechanical ventilation system. Research the best option to suit your needs. When it comes to domestic hot water, design a compact piping setup: bathroom close to your kitchen, and so on. Make sure that your ceilings are high enough (around 3m) and your roof overhangs are adequate/wide enough. When doing the finishes, although purely aesthetic, bamboo flooring and earth plaster will complement the other eco decisions you've made around your home nicely.
New rating tool released
Funded by the Construction Industry Development Board, an agency of the National Department of Public works, the Green Star SA – Public & Education Building rating tool enables the GBCSA to rate public spaces, such as community centres, libraries, museums, places of worship, indoor sports centres, entertainment, exhibition and convention centres and public transport terminal buildings, regardless of whether these buildings are publicly or privately owned. The rating tool extends to education buildings such as schools and tertiary education facilities.
1 st Green Building Council 5 Star award for Gauteng
Bryprop recently unveiled its 5 Star green rated office building in Sandton. Buoyed by this success, the company is developing another building next door targeting a 6 Star GBCSA rating. Bryprop, one of Johannesburg’s niche sectional title property development firms, is enhancing its focus on sustainability, an area expected to deliver both cost savings and greater comfort for building occupants, as well as revenue-generating opportunities in the market. The company has just become the first firm in Gauteng to receive a Green Building Council 5 Star award for its development of Block E, Upper Grayston, SA’s first smaller building to hold this accolade.
Eco-prefab home
The WFH concept is a patented modular building system, using 13m high standard modules as the structural system. The structure can be adapted to local challenges such as climatic or earthquake issues. It is the first prefabricated housing system that meets the demands in the international enviro-building standard, Active House, and it can be configured to meet many different purposes, multi-storey, townhouses, cluster houses or individual villas. It features a top class indoor climate, low energy consumption and is built with enviro-sound materials. The WFH has a very short construction period and is demountable for recycling or relocation. Online customisation tools give clients the possibility to decide their own version of the house concerning layout, size, facade, interior, and so on.
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A-Class Mercedes-Benz
M obility
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Apparently being a top designer at Mercedes-Benz doesn’t guarantee that you get to design the next super-car in their fleet. In fact, it’s incredibly competitive and once there is a brief from the top, all the MB designers set to work separately to try and create the masterpiece that goes on to win them the head of design platform. This is exactly the experience that Mark Fetherston, chief exterior designer of the new, sexy A-Class Mercedes-Benz went through. Nicole Sherwin reports.
D
efined edges and tautly drawn
indicators.
surfaces mark out the exterior
The perfect interplay of dynamic
design of the new A-Class. The
design and excellent aerodynamics is
constant interplay between concave and
nowhere more apparent than in the roof,
convex surfaces creates a characteristic
with its smooth surfaces and taut, arcing
play of light, particularly along the sides
curve. The silhouette reveals smooth,
of the car, which contributes to its unique
flowing lines finishing in a flat edge. The
appearance. Typical features of the long,
roof spoiler, which conveniently hides all
sporty front are its pronounced V-shape,
the aerials, provides an extra sporty touch
the separate headlamps, the radiator grille
and gives structure to the roof assembly.
with central Mercedes star and double
The broad emphasis of the tail end is
slats to either side of the star, as well as
revealed in an interplay of convex-concave
the additional air intakes on the sides.
surfaces and edges. The tail lights continue
The 'dropping line' apparent in the side
the line of the muscular shoulders back
profile dissipates towards the vehicle's
towards the rear, while their horizontal
front end. The design of the headlamps
orientation emphasises the car's powerful
together with the configuration of the light
width. The light functions are provided
functions within them, are key elements
optionally by fibre-optic cables
of the design concept. The light modules
and LED modules. Here,
and LEDs behind the headlamp cover
too, the interaction
glass have been arranged in such a way
between design
as to create the characteristic 'flare effect' for the daytime driving lights and
WATCH THIS!
With the new A-Class, Mercedes-Benz is opening up a new chapter in the compact segment: markedly emotive in design, with powerful engines, fuel consumption down by up to 35% compared to comparable preceding models and extremely efficient with emissions.
Mercedes-Benz: The new A-Class and aerodynamics is very clear: the surface finish
emotive exterior and an exceptionally high-quality
of the tail lights is not only an interesting design
feel to the interior.
feature, but also improves the airflow around the
'Mercedes-Benz is becoming the most dynamic
vehicle thanks to defined airflow break-away edges
premium brand in the world. As part of this
in the rear section.
development, the A-Class represents an important
Standing as much as 16cm lower on the
milestone. The A-Class is completely new, right down
road than the preceding model, the new A-Class
to the last detail. It’s not often you get the chance
communicates design and dynamism at the very first
to start with a clean sheet of paper in automotive
glance. This radical form language, presented and
development. Our designers and engineers have
enthusiastically acclaimed around the world with
made the very most of that opportunity and it also
the Concept A-Class, was consistently implemented
speaks volumes in fuel efficency,' says Dr Martin
in the series production car. The appearance of the
Zimmermann, President and CEO, Mercedes-Benz
new A-Class reflects this new Mercedes-Benz design
SA.
strategy. The result is what is known as a two-box
With the new A-Class, Mercedes-Benz is opening up
design with a distinct character of its own, a sportily
a new chapter in the compact segment: markedly emotive in design, with powerful engines ranging from 80kW to 155kW, extremely efficient with emissions from just 98g of CO2/km and a best-in-class drag coefficient of 0.27. At the same time the new model underlines that for Mercedes-Benz, safety is not a question of price – the standard specification includes, among other things, the radar-based Collision Prevention Assist system, Attention Assist and Pre-Safe. A wide choice of petrol and diesel engines meets every power requirement and reaches new heights in terms of efficiency and enviro-compatibility: the A 180 CDI will be the very first Mercedes-Benz to emit only 105g of CO2 per/km. Moreover, the A 220 CDI already meets the Euro 6 emission standard which only comes into force in 2015. All engines of the
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The new A-Class' distinct character of its own with an exceptionally high-quality feel to the interior.
new A-Class feature the ECO start/stop function as
WATCH THIS!
standard. The engines can be combined with the new six-speed manual transmission or optionally with the 7G-DCT dual clutch automatic transmission, which ideally combines comfort and sportiness. Fuel consumption down by up to 35% compared to comparable preceding models, accompanied by a considerable power increase: these are the salient features of the engine range for the new A-Class.
Diesel & Petrol Engines: 3 efficient power bands The new basic engine in the OM 607 series develops 80kW, delivers 260Nm to the crankshaft and with a manual transmission consumes 3.8l per 100 km, corresponding to 98 g of CO2/km. This is a 22% improvement over the only 60kW preceding model, the A 160 CDI, which consumed 4.9l. The new top diesel, the A 220 CDI, is no less than 25% better than its predecessor: it develops an output of 125kW and 350Nm of torque, and in combination with
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Geneva Roadshow feature but consumes only 5.4l/100km (127g CO2/km – figures for the 7G-DCT), which is 26% less than its predecessor (100kW, 185Nm, 7.4l/100 km, 174g CO2/km). Even the new top model – the A 250 Sport – with the 7G-DCT and producing 155kW and 350Nm is considerably more efficient with a consumption of 6.1l and CO2 emissions of 148g/km.
the 7G-DCT automatic dual clutch transmission it
iPhone integration
consumes only 4.3l/100km (provisional figure). The
The seamless integration of the iPhone into the
figures for the preceding A 200 CDI were 103kW,
vehicle, in conjunction with the new revolutionary
5.7l, and 149g CO2/km.
user interface design, means that Mercedes-Benz
Petrol Engines: turbocharging & direct injection
natural home on four wheels in the guise of the new
A comparison between the new and previous A
lifestyle services and content into the vehicle.
200 demonstrates what has been achieved with the
Highlights include advanced navigation software
petrol engines: with 115kW and 250Nm of torque,
from Garmin, the Audio 20 CD. This features a
the new engine delivers superior performance
twin tuner and mp3-capable CD player as well as
is now able to offer the Facebook generation its A-Class. Along with Facebook and Twitter, together with the Daimler app concept, brings further digital
The sportily emotive exterior of the new A-Class, designed by Fetherston (pictured below)
'My design inspiration comes from studying nature and the environment. The way the sand dunes curve and flow after a wind storm, the lithe lines of a large cat predator or the sleek, hard, angular lines of a shark, gliding effortlessly through the water.' Mark Fetherston, chief exterior designer
a Bluetooth interface with hands-free function and audio streaming. The colour display measures 14.7cm diagonally. The Becker MAP PILOT makes a low-cost 3D navigation function, which can also be retrofitted, available for the Audio 20 CD radio. The navigation system boasts voice-controlled input of destinations and an intuitive user interface.
The Becker MAP PILOT makes a low-cost 3D navigation function. The navigation system boasts voice-controlled input of destinations and an intuitive user interface.
The multimedia system COMAND Online now provides internet access via a web-enabled mobile phone, plus various Mercedes-Benz services on
position by virtue of their performance, high
the move. These include weather information and
efficiency and very low emissions. They impress
a special destination search via Google, as well as
with their smooth, superior power delivery and offer
the option of downloading a route that has been
customers refinement at the highest level,' adds Dr
previously configured on a PC using Google Maps
Zimmermann.
and sent to the car. A new feature is the 'News'
The new A-Class is reinventing and redefining
app which enables news on politics, finance and
it’s target audience to include up and coming,
technology to be called up online in the vehicle.
fashion forward folk who enjoy the luxury while still
Information is displayed in such a way that it is
being able to be kinder to the environment.
SG
clearly legible while on the move. 'The new A-Class is the heartbeat of a new generation at Mercedes-Benz. The new four-cylinder
Visit here for more.
models from Mercedes-Benz occupy a leading
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Motoring News
i-ROAD
Personal mobility vehicle
New tech Toyota’s new and intuitive Active Lean (AL) tech is the key to i-ROAD’s high levels of stability, safety, comfort and fun-to-drive character. The system uses a lean actuator and gearing mounted above the front suspension member, linked via a yoke to the left and right front wheels. An engine control unit calculates the required degree of lean based on steering angle, gyro-sensor and vehicle speed info, with the system automatically applying lean angle to counteract the centrifugal force of cornering. No special skills are needed to pilot i-ROAD; the AL system offers the enjoyment of riding a two-wheeler, without the need for the driver to put their feet on the road surface at any time. It is fitted with a safer, weatherproof, closed body and doesn't require a helmet.
Toyota’s new i-ROAD personal mobility vehicle (PMV) made its world debut at the Geneva motor show recently, a new, flexible form of transport designed for city streets. Seating two in tandem and under cover, i-ROAD is an electric vehicle with a range of up to 50km on a single charge. Using ‘Active Lean’ technology, it is safe, intuitive and enjoyable to drive. While hybrids, plug-in hybrids and FCVs are ideal for mainstream use over medium to long distances, Toyota believes in the feasibility of EVs to serve as a main mode of transport for short urban journeys, and has 10 years’ experience in the research and development of PMVs. People using this kind of vehicle want something that is more comfortable, offers better weather protection and is safer than a two-wheeler such as a scooter or motorcycle, but has similar benefits of low running costs, easy parking and around-town manoeuverability. The ultra-compact, three-wheel i-ROAD measures 2.3m long and 1.4m high and has a 1.7m wheelbase. Its most significant dimension, though, is its width: at only 85cm, it is no wider than a conventional two-wheeler. Not only does this make for easy manoeuvering through congested traffic, it also means four can be parked in a single parking bay. This zero-emission, EV powertrain uses a lithium-ion battery to power two 2kW motors mounted in the front wheels, giving brisk acceleration and near-silent running. Driving range is around 50km, after which the battery can be fully recharged from a conventional domestic power supply in three hours.
WATCH THIS!
Future cities Toyota envisages its i-ROAD concept has the potential to play a significant role in reducing urban traffic congestion and air pollution. Commuters can make their way to urban perimeter transportation hubs where they will transfer to the i-ROAD to enter the city centre.
Toyota's new i-ROAD
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Webbing Catcher
TRW Automotive Holdings Corp revealed
a new and innovative seat belt in collaboration with Rinspeed. The new tech features a 'webbing catcher', instead of a seat belt buckle and tongue making buckling semi-automatic. The seat belt concept is being introduced on the microMAX vehicle concept that is designed to travel short distances and features unconventional upright seats. Rather than the driver needing to physically couple the belt, this concept allows people to get in the vehicle and the webbing enfolds around them. The concept is likely to be implemented in the later half of this decade, or later.
Eyes-free voice recognition
Opel’s ADAM (pictured below) is said to be the best connected small car on the market. Its IntelliLink infotainment system is compatible with both iPhones iOS and Android smartphones and integrates many of their functions into the car. With Siri Eyes Free voice recognition and apps like TuneIn for global radio streaming (70 000 stations and over 2 million on-demand programs), the ADAM continues to extend its technological leadership with additional IntelliLink features. Many other apps are also available for ADAM’s IntelliLink system, including Stitcher global podcast internet radio and BringGo navigation for Western and Eastern Europe. Everything is clearly displayed in the car via IntelliLink’s seven-inch touch-screen display.
new tech
A selection of new tech concepts released at the recent 83rd International Geneva Motor Show.
The microMAX concept seen as the future of inner-city commuting
Cyclist & pedestrian detection
Described as an extension of existing detection and auto-braking technology, the system can detect cyclists and apply braking if it detects an incident might be about to happen. All Volvo cars equipped with pedestrian detection will also incorporate cyclist detection. The system comes in three parts, with a camera fitted in front of the interior rear view mirror, a radar integrated into the front grille and a central control unit.
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GREEN VISION
A selection of the green cars* of the recent 83rd International Geneva Motor Show. Exhibitor
Model
Fuel
CO2 Status
Honda
FCX
FC
0
S
Honda
Civic 1.6 i-DTEC
D
94
S
Honda
Insight 1.3i Hybrid
H P/E
96
S
Honda
Jazz 1.3 i Hybrid
H P/E
104
S
Honda
CRZ Hybrid
H P/E
116
S
Opel
Ampera
H P/E
27
S
Opel
Corsa 1.3 ecoFLEX
D
88
S
Toyota
Auris Touring H P/E Sport HSD
88
PS
Toyota
Prius+ Wagon
H P/E
96
S
Toyota
Prius Hybrid
Plug-in H P/E
49
S
Toyota
Aygo
P
99
S
Toyota
Yaris HSD
H P/E
79
S
Toyota
IQ
P
99
S
Toyota
Auris HSD
H P/E
87
S
Toyota
Prius
H P/E
89
S
KIA
Optima Hybrid 2.0
H P/E
125
S
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG electric E
0
S
Mercedes-Benz A
180 CDI D BlueEFFICIENCY
98
S
Nissan
Nissan Euro LEAF
E
0
S
Nissan
Nissan Micra
P
95
S
Nissan
Resonance Concept
H P/E
0
C
BMW
BMW 116d D Efficient Dynamics
99
S
BMW
BMW i3
E
0
C
BMW
BMW i8 (plug-in hybrid)
P
66
C
drive
*The judge's determination for a 'green' vehicle is one powered by alternative technologies or with less than 100g/km CO2 emissions.
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Key H
Hybrid
S
Production car
FC
Fuel Cell
PS
Pre-production
P
Petrol
C
Concept
E
Electric
For the full-list of the eco-vehicles at the show, click here.
WATCH THIS!
Geneva Motorshow's Green Cars
Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG electric drive
KIA Optima hybrid
Nissan Resonance concept
Honda FCX
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M obility With the world premiere of the BMW Concept ActiveE at the beginning of 2010, just a year after presenting the MINI E, the BMW Group underscored the rapid and consistent continuation of its intensive research and development activities in the field of electric mobility. This concept has now become a perceptible and tangible reality in the form of the BMW ActiveE. We take a look.
BMW ActiveE T
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he BMW ActiveE is the BMW Group's next
mobility solution for congested urban areas. For
systematic step towards an emission-free,
this purpose, the BMW Group is conducting field
mass-produced electric vehicle (EV). Within
tests on an internationally unparalleled scale for the
the framework of 'project i', the BMW Group is
use of purely electrically driven vehicles in everyday
carrying out research and development work on
road traffic.
the realisation of electrically-powered vehicles. The
Ongoing field tests in the US and Europe involving
main focus is on the concept of a Megacity Vehicle
more than 600 MINI E cars are already providing vital
(MCV) that meets the demands of a sustainable
knowledge about the demands on future electrically
On the way to sustainable, CO2-free mobility, the BMW Group presented the next major milestone – the BMW ActiveE. Following the MINI E, the BMW ActiveE is the BMW Group's second electric prototype.
WATCH THIS!
BMW Concept Active Tourer
EfficientDynamics With EfficientDynamics the BMW Group has for some time now been very successful in reducing fuel consumption and emission levels through new and highly-efficient engine generations, enhancement of aerodynamics, the use of innovative lightweight construction and intelligent engine management – and with better performance into the bargain. For instance, CO2 emissions of the entire vehicle fleet were reduced by around one third in the years 1995 to 2009. Thanks to EfficientDynamics, the company is now able to realise additional economy advantages through the further electrification of the drive train and hybridisation. In the medium term, the BMW Group is developing vehicle concepts for emission-free mobility in larger urban areas. In the long term, EfficientDynamics means the transition to emission-free mobility – using both battery power and regeneratively produced hydrogen. Following the MINI E, the BMW ActiveE is the BMW Group's second electric prototype. With a power output of 125kW and maximum torque of 250Nm, the car accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 9 seconds, demonstrating the dynamic and agile characteristics of a BMW, and as is typical of EVs, straight from a standstill. At the same time, newly conceived powered production vehicles, started in 2011 in the US, Europe and China, with a test fleet of over 1 000 BMW ActiveE vehicles, produced at the Leipzig plant.
The feedback from customers testing the MINI E and the BMW ActiveE will be fed directly into series production of the MCV, which the BMW Group will be launching under a new sub-brand during 2013.
lithium-ion energy storage units facilitate a vehicle range of around 160km in everyday operation. Just like the MINI E, the BMW ActiveE is a conversion car, an electric vehicle based on the body shell of a vehicle with a combustion engine. The BMW ActiveE integrates all-electric drive components
such as an energy storage unit, electric motor and power electronics in a vehicle body that was not
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WATCH THIS!
BMW ActiveE. Everyday utility.
The three energy storage units of the BMW ActiveE takes up around half of the construction space normally occupied by the combustion engine.
originally intended for this purpose – and without
is integrated into the front end of the vehicle at
compromising on space or comfort in the interior.
the cowl. There, one of the three energy storage
Therefore, the BMW ActiveE is the BMW Group's
units of the BMW ActiveE takes up around half of
first EV to offer four fully-fledged seats and a 200l
the construction space normally occupied by the
luggage compartment.
same high safety standards as a BMW 1 Series
BMW 1 Series CoupĂŠ with regard to available interior
with combustion engine, fulfilling not only crash
space. Driver and front-seat passenger as well as
safety requirements stipulated by the government,
passengers at the rear have the same amount of
but also the stringent BMW corporate demands on
space at their disposal.
passive safety, some of which are even higher than
Crash safety The car fulfils the same high standards with regard to crash safety, construction space and comfort as the original vehicle with a combustion engine. One of the major challenges in this respect was the intelligent integration of the energy storage units and drive components into the space made available due to the omission of combustion engine components. At the same time, it was necessary to ensure that the three large energy storage units located at the front end as well as the tunnel and tank could not be damaged or destroyed. The front end: crash structure and energy storage units instead of a combustion engine. In order to achieve the best possible range, the BMW ActiveE is the first limited production EV in which part of the high voltage storage units
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combustion engine. The BMW ActiveE meets the
The BMW ActiveE corresponds to a conventional
those required by law.
Weight optimisation The BMW ActiveE have managed to achieve the best possible reduction in weight. Throughout the entire development process, all new components were constantly optimised with regard to function and weight. Consequently, the BMW ActiveE offers the best possible solution in terms of weight reduction within the framework of a conversion concept. However, weight-optimised electric mobility can only be demonstrated in the form of a purpose-built car such as the MCV, as it is ideally adapted to the conditions and requirements of electric mobility. The design: clearly a BMW, clearly a very special concept.
SG
Visit here for more.
Image: www.amelieandfriends.com
Wellness corner
Mother's Day is a fabulous time to acknowledge the selfless service mums give to their kids. A thoughtful gift is the perfect way to show mum you care. Here are some beautiful gift ideas to inspire you. MAKE MUM SOME TEA
KEEP IT COSY
Pukka Revitalise Tea is a blend of warming herbs like organic cinnamon, cardamom and ginger. It also has clove, elderflower and orange peel resulting in a formula with fantastic invigorating properties. The recipe is based on Ayurveda – the ancient art of living wisely.
LIGHT UP HER LIFE A soy candle isn't just an ordinary candle. Once a pool of wax has collected, it can be used as a fabulous body moisturiser. Warm soy wax rubbed into the skin makes it beautifully soft and nourished. This Lavender soy candle has a beautiful fragrance, is made from 100% soy wax and quality essential oils.
SPOIL HER WITH STRAWBERRY Strawberry salt scrub is enriched with dead sea salts and has organic olive oil added to essential oils for an effective natural formula. Use it to remove dead skin cells and feel rejuvenated and glowing.
Antjies hand-made cotton slippers are embellished with crocheted flowers and made by women as part of a community initiative. They are hand-knitted and make a wonderful cosy winter gift.
ADD AN INCENTIVE Most people need an incentive to remember to drink enough water. This Grip and Go glass water bottle is a fabulous prompt. Re-using the same water bottle means saving on the wastage generated from throwaway containers.
STORE LOCATIONS Wellness Warehouse Kloof: Lifestyles on Kloof, 50 Kloof Street, Cape Town 021 487 5420 Wellness Warehouse Cavendish: Cavendish Square, Claremont, Cape Town 021 673 7200 All products are available from Wellness Warehouse
Brought to you by Robyn Wilkinson – Editor of Wellness magazine for Wellness Warehouse.
0800 live life / 548 3543 www.wellnesswarehouse.com
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Hot off the press I Scream & Red
This planet-friendly company is trying to make the world a better place by creating bags that are made from recycled seatbelts, reused car/homestead upholstery and recycled car parts. They source all their materials within the vicinity of their factory to qualify their products as a complete environmentally-friendly item with no carbon emissions spent on production. Their screen printings are done with non toxic pastes and the bags are bound with organic or natural fibres. They also teach people with disabilities or from rural areas to make these items in order improve and inspire their own lives.
Beaucience
New innovations in natural anti-ageing products has inspired the creation of a natural, affordable, highly-effective, safe range for both men and women.
http://beaucience.co.za/ We have TWO Beauscience hampers worth R1 400 each to give away. Send your full contact details HERE by 25 May to stand a chance of winning.
5
www.iscreamandred.co.za
2
welness warehouse
Wellness Warehouse has just launched its Wellness Herbal Tinctures Range. The products are concentrated liquid extracts of a single herb or a combination of herbs either from the roots, leaves, seeds or whole plants, preserved in alcohol and sugar-free.
The Wellness Tinctures range is available in stores and online at www.wellnesswarehouse.co.za. We have FIVE pairs of Cold & Flu Remedy and Echinacea to give away. Send your full contact details HERE to stand a chance of winning.
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woolworths
If you’re concerned about the products you use around the house and for your family every day, you’ll be happy to know that the Earth Friendly range of household cleaning, personal care and baby toiletry products are back – and even better. The household cleaning range is made with biodegradable cleaning ingredients and contain essential oils that are all sourced from nature. They contain no artificial colours and, in line with our sustainability principles, contain no animal ingredients and are not tested on animals. The Earth Friendly beauty range also includes a range of toiletries for the whole family, now with a fresh new look. Each product is made with naturally derived, biodegradable ingredients and contains no artificial colours. The entire range has been dermatologically tested and is suitable for sensitive skin. Like all Woolworths beauty and skin care products, the Earth Friendly toiletries are not tested on animals and are endorsed by Beauty Without Cruelty.
www.woolworths.co.za
3
We have THREE Woolworths hampers to give away. Send your name and address details HERE to stand a chance of winning.
5
HOT TODDY
The Hot Toddy range has been developed from remedies passed down through generations, incorporating secret recipes families have faithfully relied on for centuries for curing colds and flu. Today we have the convenience of
having these remedies carefully made for us to meet our family's needs in the Hot Toddy range of products. The range, which consists of eight products, has been formulated to be tough on cold & flu bugs but gentle on the body with delicious tasting products that can help to soothe and ease aches and pains during times of colds & flu. Hot Toddy products do not contain any aspirin or caffeine and are complimentary with other treatments or as an alternative. The range is suitable for the whole family, from children through to the elderly.
For info contact cindy@urbanhousemedia.co.za We have FIVE Hot Toddy Hampers valued at R195 each consisting of soothing drink, cough discs, hot Toddy Tea, lollies, fast recovery and cold & flu relief effervescents to give away. Send your full contact details HERE to stand a chance of winning.
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H ealing
modality
A
breakthrough new study by researchers at the University of Arizona has shown definitively
that people who have a range of motion limitations in their arms and shoulders show a significantly greater level of healing and pain reduction with a 10-minute one-time session of Reconnective Healing than when treated with physical therapy. This study, coupled with a highly acclaimed segment with Reconnective Healing discoverer Dr Eric Pearl on the Dr Oz Show, has pushed this revolutionary
form
of
alternative
healing into the public consciousness and to the forefront of exciting new healthcare options. Reconnective comprehensive, easy-to-learn,
Healing yet
is
simple
healing
a and
approach,
which completely transcends 'energy healing' and its complex rituals and techniques. It accesses vibrational frequencies that are self-correcting by nature and are accessible to everyone.
the forefront of
information Medicine
So you don't need a scientific degree, a medical license or even medical insurance to take advantage of this remarkable new opportunity to heal from chronic pain or serious illness – you can learn how to heal others and heal yourself in just one weekend. Without physically touching people, Reconnective Healing frequently has been associated with 'instantaneous' and life-lasting results for individuals with range of motion limitations, cancers,
depression,
AIDS-related
diseases, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, chronic fatigue syndrome, rheumatoid
A new scientific study shows Reconnective Healing has significantly greater healing impact on people with a range of motion limitations than physical therapy. We take a look. S G 70
and osteoarthritis, chronic pain and muscle aches, and more. According to researchers who call it the forefront of 'Information Medicine',
Reconnective
Healing
is a healing power that transcends imagination and the limitations of previously conceived human ability
WATCH THIS!
Without physically touching people, Reconnective Healing is said to have instantaneous and life-lasting results for many individuals with a range of medical conditions.
the world's leading university scientists specialising
Dr Eric Pearl on the Dr Oz Show
in bioenergetic research, Dr Kontantin Korotkov, chronicles many studies that show that this form of Reconnective Healing is scientifically measurable
and that some scientists say even has the power to
and a powerful tool in the hands of practitioners.
transform DNA. Reconnective Healing practitioners
The founder of Reconnective Healing, Dr
interact with a bandwidth of vibrational frequencies
000 people Eric Pearl, has taught more than 75
that convey corrective information to the body and
how to become catalysts for healings – both for
mind. Stanford Professor Emeritus Dr William Tiller
themselves and others. Dr Pearl is the author of
says, 'When information carried through these
The Reconnection: Heal Others, Heal Yourself – an
frequencies is introduced, it creates coherence and
international bestseller now translated into 36
order within the field and the body itself.'
languages – a book that relates his transformation
The result: dramatic reports of regeneration
from a highly successful Los Angeles chiropractor
instead of degeneration and account after account
into the first Reconnective Healer when his patients
of seemingly unexplainable healings. A book,
began reporting sudden healings even though he
Science Confirms Reconnective Healing, from one of
physically had not touched them.
SG
71 S G
did you know?
The future of fresh water It is no overstatement that, water is life, and making small concessions now, or turning a blind eye to the fact that fresh water sources are under threat, will lead to states of emergency for future generations over something that the previous generation took for granted. Be part of the conscious few who strive to keep drinkable water of quality available at the twist of a tap. See the box in this article for more info on what you can do.
Dawn Ellams, PhD textile student at the University of Scotland, has developed an enviro-friendly denim made from the pulp of eucalyptus trees. The traditional method of making one pair of jeans out of cotton is said to require around 42l water and uses harmful dyeing chemicals. Dawn turns tencel – a material created from treated woodchips – into jeans that use one-fifth of the resources of cotton alternatives. Once the jeans are created, digital printers colour and recreate treatments such as stonewashing or tea-staining.
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Photo www.elegantidiosyncrasy.com
'Wooden' Jeans
Have you ever thought that the clothes that you wear compromise water availability for future generations? Mary Francois takes a look.
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I
t
has
been
predicted
that
by
the
year
2050, the demand for water will exceed its supply. As citizens of Africa, we have surely
witnessed evidence of this eventuality, having seen distressing images of villagers, many of them children, attempting to get water from potentially contaminated sources. From this we see how the
According to Greenpeace, you can tell what the 'in colour' for the next fashion season will be by looking at the colour of the rivers in China and Mexico.
availability of drinkable water is closely related to the quality of water consumed. This alone has changed people's attitude towards this essential resource, and habits have been shifted towards doing such things as: turning off taps when we're not using the water while brushing our teeth; showering instead of bathing; and using water-saving dishwashers, among various other steps. However, have you ever thought that the clothes that you wear compromise water availability for future generations? Now, we are not suggesting
Water purity testing at many clothing manufacturer's water outlets tends to reveal shocking results.
that in order to be a conscious consumer, one has to leave your home in the nude. Rather, the point is to bring your attention to the destructive effects of dye processes that go into making our clothes, and to begin holding clothing manufacturers to account for depleting the water supply. According to Greenpeace, you can tell what the 'in' colour for the next fashion season will be by looking at the colour of the rivers in China and Mexico. The reason is that the by-product of dye factories are often discarded into drains, flowing untreated through sewer systems only to be re-introduced in water supplies or river tributaries. This has a devastating effect on water quality and will eventually lead to the 'death' of rivers. What this means is that the flora and fauna which are part of the eco-system of a river cease to
Clothing manufacturing plants – especially in the East – often have bad track records when it comes to their envirostatus.
exist because by introducing hazardous chemicals involved in dyeing into the water, we are making the
if you have ever had to do laundry you'll know that
water undrinkable, and toxic.
colours must be washed separately because some
Further evidence of this downward spiral is the chronic disease that results from working in dye
will result in the rest of our clothes being stained.
factories. That is, even before the excess dyes are
SA's water is some of the cleanest and safest to
discarded into water systems, their damaging effects
drink in the world and, given the above threatening
are already being felt by those in direct contact with
evidence, perhaps it is worth asking ourselves if
these chemicals. To illustrate, in the long-term,
this is what dye can do to the rest of my clothes,
workers risk contracting oesophageal cancer as
where does it end up? And how does it affect my
has happened to 68-year-old Wang Changgen from
water supply?
Sanjiang, China. How does this affect us here in SA, though? Well,
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newly-bought garments contain excess dye which
In an effort to create awareness around this issue and impose a censure on retailers whose
clothes were supplied by 'toxic' manufacturers,
Greenpeace
SA
recently organised a flashmob at Johannesburg's Bright Water Commons. This was driven by the fact that a previous attempt to call a certain clothing label into account had
resulted
getting
in
this
successfully international
brand to commit to detox its manufacturing processes. This achievement made it somewhat less challenging to get the culprits next on the list to clean up their act, demonstrating that with industry leaders pledging to incorporate enviro-friendly practices as part of their company strategy, the rest will have to follow suit if they are to survive in the future market. Having said this, it is true
What can you do? It is up to us all to ask ourselves, 'what can I do to lessen my impact on, and maintain the quality of, our water supply?' ď “ Familiarise yourself with where your preferred clothing labels are manufactured
ď “ Boycott brands that use toxic dye processes ď “ Spread awareness on this issue to those around you Unlike the foods we eat, clothing does not come with a label of ingredients, but in spite of this, it is important to explore our choices as consumers and know that there are options throughout SA for those looking to purchase enviro-friendly clothing.
also that although there still are a number of retailers who need more persuading than others, and which have not committed as yet to cut down on their contribution to
industrial
is
growing
pollution, pressure
to
there find
alternative ways of producing products that are less harmful to the planet. Apart from these successes in
terms
of
preserving
this
indispensable natural resource that is water, there remains a large number of less recognised brands
WATCH THIS!
which continue to purchase from countries where dye factories operate
in
manner,
a
an
un-regulated
detrimental
trend
which is likely to endure as long as there is no intervention at government level to correct this problem which has both local and regional ramifications.
SG
For more info, visit www.smartplanet. com and www.greenpeace.org
Greenpeace urges brands to detox A Greenpeace ad campaign to bring awareness to toxic dye in the fashion industry and its downstream consequences.
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Photo www.njcharters.com
C rafting
Natural dye prepared in a traditional way from turmeric
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http://paigegreen.files.wordpress.com
http://onesmallstitch.wordpress.com
Below: The art of natural dyeing can be an extremely rewarding experience given the freedom in making creative 'mistakes'
Ever wondered how to make natural dyes from plants and other materials? Dyeing fabric and fibre with materials found in nature can be a fun project for the whole family. There are myriad options for colour when one uses the earth's palette as inspiration. We show you how.
ecodyEing Y
ou'll be surprised by what colour some
& maple tree bark
materials yield when applied to fabric; often
Brown – oat bark, juniper berries, tea bags, birch
it is far removed from the source material.
bark & walnut hulls.
That is what makes this way of experimenting with dyes so enjoyable, so we welcome you to try something new.
Natural materials for dyeing Red – Red-dandelion root, beets, rosehips, chokecherries, blackberries & hibiscus Orange – sassafras, onion skin, carrot root, turmeric & pomegranate Yellow – marigold, burdock, celery leaves, tea, dandelions & sunflowers Green – spinach leaves, nettle, red onion, yarrow, foxglove & sorrel Blue/purple – mulberries, red cabbage, hyacinth
Get crafting When you are dyeing yarn, open it into a big circle while keeping it wound in its skein. Tie it loosely at many points to hold it in its skein while applying the dye process. These instructions will work well for items that aren't washed too often, for example: play silks, scarves, yarn for knitting, and other playthings. If you want colour to withstand much washing, try using synthrapol as a prewash, as well as a postwash to help set the fabric better.
What you'll need Vegetables, plants, or herbs for dyeing
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NOW AVAILABLE IN SOUTH AFRICA
material A large stockpot (2 pots are better)
MANUKA HONEY & ALPINE MANUKA ESSENTIAL OIL
White vinegar Blank fabric or undyed fibre (cotton, wool, and silk will work well; polyester is more difficult to dye) Mesh strainer
What to do
1
Fill a large pot with water and heat until boiling. Add 3 cups of white vinegar.
Add your fabric or yarn to the pot (make
*Leptospermum scoparium
sure the fabric moves freely in the pot; you
Mature, wild growing Manuka* from the rugged East Coast of New Zealand’s North Island forms the essential ingredient of our oil and honey. Alpine Manuka Oil and Manuka Honey offer effective healing properties for a variety of conditions including: MRSA, infections, cuts, athlete’s foot, acne and other bacterial and fungal skin imbalances. Even the most resilient bacteria are no match for the unparalleled antimicrobial properties and being all-natural products, they have no negative side affects.
may need to save the rest for another time). Remove the pot from the heat. Let the pot sit until it reaches room temperature. Remove the fabric/yarn and wring it lightly to remove some of the water. Throw away the vinegar solution.
2
Prepare your dye bath by again filling the pot with water. Add your dye materials, and be sure to stir well. Heat to boiling, and maintain a boil for round about 30 minutes. Use the mesh strainer to remove the vegetable/plant material in the water (if you are using a powdery material, or something contained, like tea bags, they can stay in, which will make for a richer colour).
3
Add the vinegar-soaked fabric/ yarn to the pot. Add another 1 cup of vinegar. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and stir often. Check the fabric/yarn periodically to check the colour and determine when you think it's ready. Depending on what you're using and how intense you'd like the colour, this can be from 30 minutes to 1 hour.
100% Alpine Manuka Oil
15+ Manuka Honey
This essential oil is easily absorbed and non-sticky. Available in 10ml.
The honey can be taken orally or applied topically to affected areas. Available in 250g and 500g.
Visit our website for a list of stockists and information
www.manukahoneyafrica.com
4
When the colour is saturated to your liking, remove the pot (which is still covered) from the heat. If you'd still like the colour to be richer, leave the fabric/yarn in until it reaches room temperature.
5
Remove the fabric/yarn, and rinse it under cold tap water. Hang to dry.
Happy dyeing.
SG
Contains excerpts from The Rhythm Of Family by Amanda Blake Soule.
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Photo http://atelierom.blogspot.com
www.hellohydrangea.com http://almostunschoolers.blogspot.com
Clockwise from top left: the brilliant pigment in red cabbage, a natural source of blue and purple • Pomegranate seeds – for sourcing the colour orange – among other natural ingredients, seen here in a traditional dyeing setting • Flowers and herbs to brighten up our lives
79 S G
A silver crystal under magnification
Most people have little to no idea about many of the materials they encounter in everyday life. A good example is silver. We take a closer look at this amazing metal and some of its many uses.
Silver ain't just pretty L
et's begin at the beginning: Silver is a soft, white metal with chemical symbol Ag and the atomic number 47 (meaning it has 47 protons
in its atomic nucleus). It has the highest electrical conductivity of any element and is profoundly useful for this aspect alone. It is most commonly found naturally as an alloy with other metals such as gold
No-one knows who discovered silver, or even when. All that is known is that this metal – or references to it – have been around for millennia.
and copper. Indeed, ores of copper, copper-nickel,
for silver in this form has dropped dramatically.
lead and lead-zinc often contain large amounts
Electrical & electronic products – high-quality
of silver, so the early miners of these other ores
sound equipment and musical instruments as well
inevitably encountered silver while seeking the
as your PC's keyboard, for example.
riches of the earth. No-one really knows who discovered silver, or even when. All that is known is that this metal – or
A catalyst in chemical reactions – such as the production of formaldehyde from methanol and air .
references to it – have been around for millennia. It
Nuclear Reactor Rods – to regulate the fission
is mentioned in the book of Genesis and virtually all
chain reaction in pressurised water nuclear
known ancient languages have a word for 'silver'.
reactors.
Most of us are familiar with the use of silver
Medicinal purposes – to kill most bacteria,
for jewellery and fine homewares such as cutlery
viruses, algae and fungi. It is used as a topical
and dishware. However, silver has many other
treatment in gels and bandages because of its
applications as well.
antimicrobial effects.
Uses of Silver
having short-term catheterisation in hospitals.
Catheters – in reducing bacteraemia in adults
Currency – there is a resurgence in the number
In clothing fabrics & materials – used in
of people purchasing silver bars due to unstable
clothing and carpeting to inhibit the growth of
economics.
bacteria and fungi and employed in both home
Mirrors – used to be utilised as the reflective
and office.
metal behind the glass, before aluminium was
So the next time your eye is caught by the bling of
utilised.
a silver pendant or ring, give it a little more thought
Solar reflectors – as with mirrors
than making a mental note of how pretty it looks
Tooth fillings – used in this role as part of
– you are looking at one of the key materials that
amalgam, which also includes rather unhealthy
has allowed human beings to develop the advanced
metals like mercury.
technological culture we now enjoy worldwide.
Photography – in prints, although since the introduction of digital photography,the demand S G 80
See advert opposite for more.
SG
81 S G
A d v er t o r i a l
Are you looking to save money on your heating bill and reduce your carbon footprint at the same time? If so, you’ll then want to know more about our traditional wood-burning and fully-automated central heating pellet fireplaces. Calore heating solutions report.
eco-heating this winter Built-in fireboxes (above) are also a considerate choice to the environment, due to their reduced carbon emissions and low wood usage.
Calore pellet stoves and built-in firebox units use a unique
O
system, Multifire, which ur company Calore, through the promotion
distributes heat evenly from floor to
ceiling. The system draws of wood-based biofuel technology, has
hot air from the ceiling level and
Calore guarantees a continuous and consistent supply of green fuel impact on the local sustainable energy industry. To view Calore’s innovations in pellet stoves and built-in fireboxes to their customers in the form of The real strength of our product, and the reason visit us at one of the stores listed below. it is a truly sustainable alternative energy source, is biomass wood pellets sourced from that we use a natural waste product from sustainable alien vegetation. distributes it via a fan on the floor level. Most models can also
embarked on a journey to make a lasting
circulate warmth to nearby rooms via air ducts.
EXCLUSIVE AGENTS OF
wood plantations as our fuel. This is in the form of logs and wood pellets. Wood pellets are a biofuel manufactured from compressed sawdust and wood waste sourced from the off-cuts and waste wood from South Africa's timber industry and alien vegetation. Our wood pellets are produced in SA, guaranteeing continuous and consistent supply of green fuel to CAPE a TOWN JOHANNESBURG Italcotto Centre our customers. Christiaan Barnard Street Cape Town Tel: +27 21 425 4192
Unit 64 Northlands Deco Park Cnr Witkoppen and New Market Roads Northriding, Randburg Tel: +27 11 796 5098
The Multifire System Our range of fireplaces include both built-in and freestanding
wood-burning
closed
combustion
systems and pellet fireplaces. To enhance this already efficient system our supplier, Piazzetta of Italy, has developed the patented Multifire System. The Multifire System distributes heat evenly throughout the room, maintaining an even and ideal temperature from floor to ceiling, thus maximising the available heat at a level you can appreciate. The system draws hot air from the ceiling level and distributes it via a fan at floor level. It also allows for the hot air to be distributed to multiple rooms via ducting – up to 10m away from the unit for the wood burners and 16m for the pellet fireplaces.
Pellet Fireplaces LIVE WARM. LIVE GREEN. Pellet
Fireplaces
are
fully-automated
with
an
automatic ignition and self-feeding system making them extremely easy to use. This means you don't have to do much at all in order to keep your home warm this winter. Pellet Fireplaces also provide over 90% efficiency, with extremely low carbon emissions www.calore.co.za 71 S G compared to other fossil fuels.
Wood pellets are pre-packed in handy 15kg bags making them clean and easy to store. The quality of the manufactured pellets can be maintained and guaranteed, assuring you of constant heat-efficiency for your home or office. Piazzetta's high quality build technology and simple-to-follow cleaning and servicing schedule, guarantees that your fireplace will provide you and your family with the warmth you need this winter and for many winters to come. Can you afford not to install a Calore fireplace this winter? Visit a Calore store or go here for more.
LIVE WARM, LIVE GREEN AND SAVE.
Join the Green Revolution to save our planet, electricity and money. The price of electricity and gas are steadily increasing. Their
heating. It costs less than half to run than electrical heating
availability can be annoyingly erratic, especially during peak
and the energy is always there when you need it.
winter times. Biomass, in the form of wood and wood pellets, is
Live warm, live green and join the Green Revolution this winter.
the latest alternative green heating solution in South Africa.
Find out more at www.calore.co.za or visit one of the Calore
Biomass is a highly effective fuel for both spatial and water
stores listed below.
LIVE WARM. LIVE GREEN. facebook.com/calorefireplaces
twitter.com/caloresa
Cape Town: Italcotto - 021 425 4192
Port Elizabeth: Selective Lighting - 041 365 2636
Johannesburg: Calore Jhb - 011 796 5098
Namibia: Calore Namibia - +264 61 246 021
George: Stiles - 044 871 3222
Bloemfontein: Opening Soon
Knysna: Metelerkamp’s - 044 382 0274
Hermanus: Opening Soon
www.calore.co.za 83 S G
Image www.petitmom.co.uk
Kids
greening your baby S G 84
Try using nappies made with plant-based biodegradabl plastics, rather than conventional disposable nappies.
Painting the nursery When selecting paint to decorate your baby-to-be’s nursery, think very carefully about what will be lining the walls that your baby will eat, drink and
www.acutezmedia.com
Bringing up a green, healthy baby is becoming top of mind these days as the health and wellness industry is now leading the charge and moms and dads to-be are opting for more natural, organic and eco-friendly paths. Eco Diva Nicole Sherwin offers tips to get you started.
sleep in for its first appearance into the world. Typical household paint contains up to 10 000 chemicals, of which 300 are known toxins and 150 have been linked to serious illness. Some of the most harmful chemicals found in paint are volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. So rather opt for eco friendly, low VOC paints that won’t harm your precious newborn.
If you have the choice and can produce milk naturally, it’s proven to be the best choice for both mom and baby.
200-500 years for disposable nappies (diapers) to decompose. This is an alarming statistic. If you can afford to, try using nappies made with plant-based plastics (also known as bioplastics), these nappies
Breast feeding
are non-petroleum based and are also compostable.
Breastfeeding choices are also another interesting
under landfill conditions, there are other options to
debate, but if you have the choice and can produce
compost them such as using a composting toilet, an
milk naturally, it’s proven to be the best choice
earthworm system, or a highly active and properly
for both mom and baby. First of all it’s free, then
conditioned composting area.
While these have been found not to break down
there are numerous health benefits for both, as well as incredible bonding experiences. Also, opt for natural nipple creams or make your own with organic olive oil and coconut oil, which are soothing and calming. If you are one of the not so lucky moms who can’t produce your own, rather choose organic, natural infant formulas – there are some wonderful products on the market.
Baby products The markets are saturated with baby products, and knowing what is healthy for your baby is quite a minefield. Always look at the labels to find out what the ingredients are and choose products that only contain natural ingredients Alternatively you can make your own homemade products which are
Disposable or biodegradable nappies
healthy, easy to make, less expensive and work just
According to various studies, it takes between
See here for recipe options.
as well.
SG
85 S G
Hot off the press Eco Baby Naturalmente
Children’s epidermis is very fragile because it does not produce lipids necessary for the hydration of their skin. Naturalmente created the Bio Baby range to cleanse, moisturise and nourish this delicate skin throughout childhood, from birth to pre-teen
1
years. Bio Baby consists of a Mandarin shampoo with a pH of 5.5 making it gentle on scalp and skin, as well as Nutrient Body Oil and Nutrient Body Cream which both contain soothing chamomile and calendula.
www.naturalmente.co.za We have ONE Bio Baby hamper (with a treat for mom too) to give away. Send your name and postal address HERE by 25 May to stand a chance of winning.
bema baby
Certified organic by ICEA and made in Italy – Bema Baby
takes care of your baby’s skin and wellbeing. Our products are free of additives, preservatives, GMOs and colouring agents. Dermatologically tested, BEMA baby is gentle, protective and naturally fragranced. Use daily to nourish your baby’s delicate skin without disturbing the natural balance.
www.deaorganics.com We have ONE Bema Baby hamper worth R870 to give away. Send your name and postal address HERE by 25 May to stand a chance of winning.
1
Better Life
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No more child-proof caps and ‘hazard’ warnings on your
specialised surfactants made from sugar, starch and
cleaning products. Harmless House* has just launched
amino acids. All are safe, manufactured from natural
Better Life, a range of cleaning products that uses
ingredients and are free of sulphates, ethoxylates,
only non-toxic plant-based ingredients and essential
fragrances, SLS, phosphates, ammonia, bleach, dyes,
oils for fragrance. The entire range – from all-purpose
and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as glycol
cleaners to speciality surface products – blends highly
ethers and alcohols.
www.harmlesshouse.co.za
ECO.KID
eco.kid South Africa also has a body care range to complement the existing 'Green-Haircare' range. These hypo-allergenic body products are formulated with ingredients which match the oils and amino acids found naturally in the skin. The range includes TLC hypo-allergenic wash, which is a ‘no tears’ hair and body wash for ultra-sensitive skin, Call Me Bubbles hypo-allergenic bubble bath and Potion Lotion hypo-allergenic body lotion.
www.ecokid.co.za
LOVE ME BABY
Inspired by a baby and created by a mommy, Love Me Baby prides itself on the softest, purest, whitest baby clothes. Brand new to the market, Love Me Baby is the embodiment of a parent’s passion to give their child the very best. All Love Me Baby apparel is GOTS – (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified, which is the leading organic standard worldwide. A GOTS certification also comes with minimum social criteria for factory workers, which means no sweat shops and no child labour. With many products today claiming to be organic, it is easy to overlook key details. Always make sure you buy 'certified organic'.
www.lovemebaby.co.za
Smarticle
There seems to be a challenge to find the perfect toys for children to play with. Finally, shopping for that special toy is a simple and fun experience with Smarticle, a recently launched online toyshop that offers a boutique range of educational products hand-picked as the best examples of green design. With their belief that toys should be natural, safe, eco-friendly, non-violent and sourced from manufacturers who provide safe and nurturing environments for their employees – Smarticle toys really are the smartest choice.
www.smartlcle.co.za
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Hot off the press Eco Baby
PURE BEGINNINGS
Loving your baby is not just about hugging and cuddling them, it is also about caring what you put onto and into their bodies. The new Gentle Bamboo Baby Wipes are made from bamboo fibre, not only making them biodegradable but also from a highly sustainable source, thus making them better for the environment.
www.purebeginnings.co.za
woolworths
If you’re concerned about the products you use around the house and for your family every day, you’ll be happy to know that the Earth Friendly range of household cleaning, personal care and baby toiletry products are back – and even better. Their improved baby toiletry range includes specially formulated products for your little one’s delicate skin, made with biodegradable, naturally derived ingredients. The range includes Baby Barrier Cream with nourishing vitamin E panthenol & zinc oxide, gently cleansing Baby Bath Wash, Baby Lotion with soothing sweet almond oil & vitamin E and Baby Calming Oil with lavender & chamomile.
www.woolworths.co.za
Made with love. Kind to baby and kind to the Earth.
Give your baby a loving start with baby products that care as much as you do.
Certified organic by ICEA and made in Italy – Bema Baby takes care of your baby’s skin and wellbeing. Our products are free of additives, preservatives, GMOs and colouring agents. Dermatologically tested, BEMA baby is gentle, protective and naturally fragranced. Use daily to nourish your baby’s delicate skin without disturbing the natural balance. For more info on BEMA visit www.deaorganics.com or email info@deaorganics.com Stockists: Wellness Warehouse Kloof Street, Cape Town • The Spa Shop www.thespashop.co.za Faithful to Nature www.faithful-to-nature.co.za • Allure Cosmetics www.allurecosmetics.co.za
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'Future generations may well have occasion to ask themselves, "What were our parents thinking? Why didn't they wake up when they had a chance?" We have to hear that question from them, now.' - Al Gore
Eco Diva’s Recipes for
Mom & Baby Eco Diva Baby Bum Cream Ingredients: ½ cup coconut oil 2 Tbls shea butter 2 Tbls sweet almond oil
Eco Diva AntiStretchmarks Belly Butter Ingredients: ½ cup cocoa butter
Eco Diva VitaminEnriched Baby Lotion Ingredients:
2 tablespoons wheat germ
½ cup organic olive oil or
oil
1 tspn beeswax pellets
sweet almond carrier oil
2 teaspoons sweet almond
5 drops lavender essential
2 Tblsp organic coconut oil
oil
2 capsules of Vitamin E oil
10 drops vitamin E oil
oil
2 capsules of omega 3,6,9
5 drops chamomile essential
5 drops lavender essential
oil
oil
oil Directions:
4 teaspoons grated
5 drops roman chamomile
beeswax
essential oil
Put coconut oil, beeswax pellets
5 drops sandalwood
and shea butter in pot or double
essential oil
boiler. Melt on low heat until
5 drops neroli essential oil
smooth and oily. Pour into mixing bowl. Add sweet almond oil, vitamin E oil and essential oils. Mix well. Decant into recycled jar and store in a cool, dry place.
Directions: Melt the coconut oil on a low heat until liquid and pour into a mixing bowl. Add in the olive
Directions: Measure all ingredients into a
oil and pierce the Vitamin E
heavy saucepan. Warm mixture
capsules with a needle or pin
over low heat, until cocoa butter
and squeeze out the oil. Pour
and beeswax have melted
in the essential oils and mix
(two to five minutes). Stir well.
thoroughly. Decant into a jar
Remove from heat and stir in
and add your own label.
essential oils. Cool briefly then pour into jar. Leave lid off and
NB. The liquid will harden
allow to cool completely (this
slightly to form more of a lotion
should take about an hour).
when cool due to the coconut oil consistency.
Contact Nicole on Twitter 89 S G
Kids Dr Marc Sher (pictured), OTC Pharma SA consultant, shares his top tips for optimum dental care for newborn babies and toddlers all moms need to know.
teething &baby 1 2 Breastfeeding makes baby strong. The action of sucking and swallowing is very
important for your baby as it
helps promote the growth of the jaw and face bones.
'Milk teeth' or the primary dentition start erupting from the 6th-8th month after birth. By the
time the child is 3-years-old
all the 'milk' teeth should have erupted. A total of 20 teeth in the upper and lower jaw is normal. Looking after the primary dentition is crucial for
the preparation and reserving room
for
the
permanent
dentition.
3
Not every baby has trouble with teething. There should be no cause for concern if your little one feels the
cutting
process.
Some
symptoms of teething include;
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loss of sleep, little appetite, restlessness, temperature,
4 5
diarrhoea and skin rash.
Babies will put anything in their mouths to relieve the pressure pain caused by teething. The most suitable aids
are teething rings made of silicone and cooling dental sticks. Keep them in the fridge (never freezer) so the cold effect helps relieve the pain even further.
As soon as the first teeth appear they should be brushed. Using either a baby toothbrush or a cloth over your finger and a small amount of baby toothpaste (never use adult toothpaste) brush the erupted teeth once a day (before bed) for the first two years. After which brushing should be done twice a day, morning and night.
6
Only from a primary school age do kids develop the ability to brush independently. Up until that time assisted brushing is required to make sure they are cleaning their teeth correctly. Always encourage your child to brush on their own as the sooner they learn this the better. The brushing stroke must be in circular movements for the sides of the teeth, and a gentle scrubbing for the tops of the teeth. Only a pea-sized toothpaste is required.
7
The toothbrush should have as small a head as possible, with
www.mommasjewels.com
amount of
The most suitable aids are teething rings made of silicone and cooling dental sticks.
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Avoid giving your child a bottle for long periods – especially if the drink is sweetened with sugars. When children
continuously drink from the bottle their teeth are always coated with this fluid and this prevents
Making the brushing experience interactive and part of the daily routine is very important.
rounded soft bristles and a thick firm grip. Specially-made kids toothpaste must be used as it has just the right amount of fluoride for your child. Try and get them to brush in front of a mirror as this helps develop good
8
techniques.
saliva from protecting the teeth and leads to rampant tooth decay.
Giving fluoride at this young age is not essential (0-3). It is very difficult to
determine the amount of fluoride that a young child ingests on a daily basis as many of them swallow their toothpaste. Overdosing on fluoride is very dangerous and can be harmful. Just by
Children will always follow what grown-ups do and this is especially true when it comes to brushing. Being in a positive mood when you brush your teeth while
and they will do the same. Making the brushing experience interactive and part of the daily
routine is very important. Using colouring charts
or nursery rhymes or creating games around brushing can all help in making the experience
9 10
toothpaste is perfect. Once older, their dentist can decide on the necessity to provide additional fluoride in the way of a daily supplement or
13
letting your child watch you will raise curiosity
enjoyable for your little one.
them brushing with a recommended children's
Dental floss is not important at this stage. However, an introduction to floss and
setting the example by flossing your own teeth in front of your child is very important.
Diet is all important at this early stage. Limiting the amount of sugar is essential, especially surgery drinks. The more natural the food, for example, fruit and raw food, the more
topical application.
The first visit to the dentist can be as early as two and a half or three years. This is purely to familiarise your child with the dental environment. I encourage mothers to bring their little ones in as early as two and a half, just for 5-10 minutes to 'play' in the chair and get used to the sights and smells. A lot also depends on the attitudes parents display at home about the dentist. Giving the child negative feedback and being apprehensive about the dentist will only build up unnecessary fear. Building trust between your child and the dentist is crucial, so when the time comes for that first filling or any other treatment, there is already that element of trust and a traumatic experience can be avoided.
hard chewing has to be done and the more thoroughly the teeth will clean themselves. A well-balanced diet is essential and should include lots of cereal and wholemeal products, fruit and vegetables (preferably raw or quickly blanched) yogurt, milk and cheese and a little meat and fish on a regular basis with limited fats and oils and very little sweets. If sweets are going to be given, it should be once a day and brushing the teeth
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2
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We have 2 super children’s health hampers valued at R 3 100 to give away courtesy of OTC PHARMA SA. Email your details, name and postal address here: giveaways@simplygreen. co.za by 25 May 2013 to stand a chance to win. For more info visit www.otcpharma.co.za or call 011 516 1700
Photo http://familytimemagazine.blogspot.com
11 12
straight away should be encouraged.
Tech
APPATTACK We share a few more apps this edition to help make going green easy and on the fly. TREEHUGGER Media outlet TreeHugger's app features the latest news
Whole Foods Market Recipes
on sustainability, access to the website's podcasts, and
Looking for healthy and delicious food? Search Whole
updates from TreeHugger's Twitter account. TreeHugger
Foods Market Recipes for recipes featuring the finest
puts an eco-spin on science and tech, business and
natural and organic foods. You can search recipes by
politics, cars and transportation, design and architecture,
ingredients and dietary preferences such as gluten-free,
travel, fashion and beauty, food, health, and even
low fat, and vegetarian/vegan. Every Whole Foods Market
celebrity news.
recipe includes nutritional information and cooking
ECO CHEF
instructions. You can also enter up to three items you have on hand to find recipes using those ingredients.
Eco Chef Bryan Au shows you via step-by-step instructions,
Add ingredients to your Shopping List from a recipe
photo sequences and dozens of instructional videos,
automatically, including quantities so you don't buy too
filmed in HD, on how to prepare all of his recipes in
much. You can also add items by hand, edit, rearrange,
under 10 minutes. Some recipes take as little as 2-5
and send your list via email. Use the app's store locator
minutes to prepare. Learn all the health benefits of this
to find Whole Foods Market stores near you. Each store
new organic cuisine and how to use some of Chef Bryan’s
page includes links to the store website and specials of
favourite high-tech kitchen gadgets. This app includes
natural and organic foods on sale at your local Whole
over 100 unique recipes with even more videos and
Foods Market.
recipes being added each and every week. Many totally new never before seen recipes were invented and created
iGreenpeace
by Chef Bryan exclusively for this special must-have Eco
Fun for kids, this Greenpeace app helps support various
Chef App. The recipes are all modelled to look and taste
Greenpeace campaigns with Alex the Penguin, a character
just like all of your favourite junk foods, comfort foods
who loves good food, friends, playing games and saving
and fast foods, but now are all natural, organic and truly
the planet. He lives at the South Pole and is experiencing
are the most delicious and healthy possible while being
problems due to global warming, and is trying to create
good for you and the planet.
change. Kids can have fun using the Penguin Clap Game. Tap and clap with Alex the Penguin and see how long
ECOKI
you can last. Other users can update Greenpeace news
The Ecoki Reader brings you the best in sustainable
from around the world, find the tools to be an online
lifestyle news, tips, vegan recipes, and hands on reviews.
activist, and have opportunities to donate to support
Sit back with a cup of green tea and the Ecoki Reader and
Greenpeace campaigns to save people, penguins, and
enjoy the best eco-news delivered to you daily.
the planet. 93 S G
Extract taken from On Safari by Nadine Clarke, published by Struik Nature, an imprint of Random House Struik
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For info or to purchase visit www.randomstruik.co.za. Also visit www.getbushwise.com, or visit the 'Get Bushwise' facebook page 95 S G
Extract taken from On Safari by Nadine Clarke, published by Struik Nature, an imprint of Random House Struik
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For info or to purchase visit www.randomstruik.co.za. Also visit www.getbushwise.com, or visit the 'Get Bushwise' facebook page 97 S G
Kids
Eco-Experiments
MATHEMATICS IN NATURE
Every daisy and sunflower is a window on the infinite, as are apple blossoms and the flowers of other trees and bushes bearing edible fruits. These grow according to the pattern of the pentagon and its extension, the pentagonal star or pentagram. Apples and pears, when cut through their girth, reveal the pentagonal star pattern in their seed structure, inherited from their original flower pattern. In this issue, Sharon Levy investigates the design of the pentagon and pentagram.
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THE PENTAGRAM Each of the triangles in the pentagonal star have two equal sides that relate to the third side as 8:5 or 1.618:1 as seen in the golden rectangle.
THE PENTAGON The Pentagon consists of 10 right-angled triangles whose sides approximate 3-, 4- and 5-unit lengths. This 3-4-5 triangle is at times referred to as the Pythagorean triangle because it illustrates the Pythagorean theorem (the square of the hypotenuse of a right angled triangle is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides).
intersects with the circle to produce point (3).
With the point
of the compass at (3) swing an arc down from (4) at the top of the circle to give (5).
With the point at
(4) swing through (5) to give two points of the pentagon.
With the point of
the compass on these new points in turn, swing from the top to find the last two points of the pentagon.
DODECAHEDRON A dodecahedron is a Platonic solid comprising 12 pentagrams.
Using Euclid's Method to Construct a Pentagon This method of constructing a pentagon first appeared in the last book of Euclid's
Elements, 2 500 years ago. Draw a horizontal line with a circle on it Keeping the compass fixed, place the point of the compass at (1) and draw the vesica through the centre of the cirle. Open the compass wide and draw arcs from (1) and (2) to cross above and below the circle. Use a ruler to draw a vertical line through the centre of the circle. Draw the vertical through the vesica where it
How to Construct a Dodecahedron Firstly, construct a golden rectangle: Draw a circle from the centre of a square's base touching the opposite corners of the square. This will produce the golden section's proportions along both sides of the extended base line. A dodecahedron can be constructed by taking three golden rectangles and assembling them at 90º angles. The figure formed in 3D has twelve corners which are also the 12 centres of each of the 12 pentagons that form the faces of the dodecahedron.
SG
Sharon Levy is a science and mathematics teacher with a keen interest in the inter-relationships between science, education and society. She co-founded The Institute for Leadership and Education and currently runs Maths-is-Easy, offering individual and group tuition in mathematics to primary and secondary school learners.
99 S G
K itchen
Makeov Do's + Don'ts Eating healthy, with fresh and safe foods, starts with good habits in the kitchen. These simple eco-friendly tips will help you green your kitchen and keep you and your family in great shape.
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Photo http://beautifulkitchensblog.co.uk
organically grown and free of toxins – unless you frequent an establishment that is overtly organic and boasts toxin-free foods. But if you eat in, make your own food and start using fresh, organic ingredients, you can be certain that the food you eat works for you instead of against you.
Make room for vegetables A good rule of thumb is to stock bulk grains and legumes, and flavour with fresh seasonal vegetables. A key recommendation is to fill at least half your plate with vegetables at every meal, as well as making room for fruits.
Don't buy toxic-laden food Not all vegetables are grown to the same safe standards. Modern agriculture uses lots of toxic pesticides, and the residue from those chemicals remains on many foods – even after you've washed them at home. Buy organic foods as often as possible to avoid residue of pesticides. There
akeover
are some foods which are particularly vulnerable to toxic residues, including peaches and other deciduous fruits, celery, berries, sweet peppers, most leafy greens and numerous others. These days organic fresh foods are available almost everywhere and are hardly more costly than their intensive-farming grown variants, so buy and eat organic only, if possible. If not, all leafy and fruiting edibles should be thoroughly washed, soaked in fresh water and given a good rubbing down before any processing for the table.
Filter your tap water Tap water in some places in SA is safe, elsewhere, not so much. But most tap water contains a lot of trace elements that we could best do without, from
T
pesticides
through
to
micro-organisms.
Chlorination takes out most microbes, but produces
he first step toward a healthier and more
by-products (chloramines and trihalomethanes) that
earth-friendly diet is to cook. There's a
are unhealthy. Pharmaceuticals and some other
reason you have a kitchen, though many
contaminants are usually not filtered out, even
people eat out as a choice over home cooking. But
by modern water treatment plants. Also, you may
eating out doesn't mean you are eating food that's
be one of those relying on local borehole water –
101 S G
Photo https://nwish.s3.amazonaws.com
Fruit are particularly vulnerable to toxic residues. Wash fruit well and choose organic produce when possible – ie, pesticide free.
capable of stopping both microbes getting into your
Don't use nonstick cookware
drinking water and unwanted chemicals making
While super-convenient and easy to clean, most
their way into your body.
nonstick cookware is made with chemicals that can
but even that is vulnerable to contamination. The answer to all the above is a good quality filter,
degrade at high temperatures. When this happens
Don't believe marketing hype
(say a frying pan is unintentionally left on a hot
When shopping, look for third-party certifications
kill pet birds. Scratched-up pans are also more
you can trust, like organic certification, Fair Trade,
likely to leach chemicals into your food. Aluminum,
Rainforest Alliance and FSC (in the case of paper
too, can leach into foods if you cook acidic foods
and wood products). Don't be fooled by marketing
like lemon- or tomato-based sauces. Better options
masquerades. For instance, fact-check phrases like
include: stainless steel and 'clad' cast iron; anodised
'made with whole grains' and 'made with real fruit'
aluminium (which is more stable and less likely to
against the ingredient lists. Often, less ethical
leach into foods); glass and porcelain.
plate too long) the air in the kitchen rapidly fills with acrid smoke, sufficient in some instances to
companies will use such marketing hype to induce
uncommon to find whole grains listed after refined
Choose meat carefully
white flour on the products contents' list, and
A rule of thumb for green eating is to eat as low on
that 'fruit' really means 'fruit juice concentrate' – a
the food chain as possible; and the counter-point
euphemism for plain-old sugar with flavouring which
is to reduce your consumption of foods that
once had a passing association with something
come from higher up the food chain, especially
fruit-like. Look for free-range labels on chicken and
livestock and poultry. So the formula is more
other livestock foods. Always try for organic and
fruits, vegetables, grains and beans than chickens,
realise that the word 'natural', without appropriate
cows and pigs. Raising livestock, which often
certification, has no legal standing and essentially
involves clear-cutting pristine forests for pasture,
could mean anything and therefore signifies not
is one of the world's largest sources of greenhouse
very much.
gas emissions. The animals themselves contribute
you to buy their products in the belief that they are healthier, when they may well not be. So, it's not
S G 102
Photo www.bluepractice.com
Be sure to use eco-cleaning products in your home to avoid being exposed to harmful chemicals.
many millions of tons of the super greenhouse gas methane (20-30 times the potency of carbon dioxide in terms of global warming effects) every year. Beyond that, generally, the smaller the animal, the less enviro-intensive it is to raise for food; a chicken requires less feed and water than a cow to produce a kilo of meat. Choosing humanely raised, organic meats ensures that artificial hormones, antibiotics, toxic pesticides or inhumane conditions aren't a part of your diet.
fish,
choosing
wisely
Compost Once you're eating more vegetables, you're certainly creating more veggie scraps. Don't throw them in the garbage, where they'll just rot. Rather consciously compost them. Composting is a natural process that transforms organic wastes like vegetable scraps, coffee grinds, eggshells and yard waste like grass clippings and leaves into rich, nutrient-dense earth – perfect for potting plants, gardening or
Fish is good, sometimes For
complete collapse or extinction.
is
fertilising the lawn. This is easier if you have a yard, but there have been great innovations in odourless difficult.
Many
popular species, like tuna and swordfish, tend to
composting indoors.
toxic chemicals; some farm-raised species (tilapia
Don't pollute your indoor air
and barramundi) tend to be raised sustainably,
The US Environmental Protection Agency estimates
while others (salmon) tend not to be. Meanwhile,
that indoor air can be as much as five-times more
some wild-caught fish are harvested sustainably
polluted than the air outdoors. Several potential
(wild Alaskan salmon, Arctic char), but a great
sources of indoor air pollution originate in the
many (Atlantic cod, bluefin tuna) are not, and
kitchen, so be mindful and you can prevent asthma
seafood overfishing is one of today's most pressing
attacks or other more serious lung illnesses. Some
enviro-issues around the world. Use the SASSI
common sources of indoor air pollution in the
green-orange-red list to determine if the fish you
kitchen include: gas ranges (make sure they're
want to eat is on the green list, avoiding the orange
properly vented); cleansers (choose non-toxic,
where possible and the red list species altogether
green options, or make your own); newly installed
as the latter are in severe decline and danger of
cabinetry (steer clear of particle board containing
be contaminated with mercury, PCBs and other
103 S G
formaldehyde glues if you're remodelling); paints (choose low- or non-VOC paints, and be wary of lead-based paint lingering in older homes); and pesticides (use non-toxic alternatives and integrated
Buy Energy Star appliances Refrigerators, dishwashers and ovens can be among the biggest energy hogs in the house, costing you every time they're in use. When the time comes to replace older appliances, choose Energy Star-labelled options so you know that you're buying a product that uses relatively little energy – and
Photo www.royaldesign.com
pest management).
Did you know that many nonstick cookware is made with chemicals that can degrade at high temperatures? Choose cookware that ensures your safety in this regard.
costs you relatively little to run.
Use appliances wisely When using kitchen appliances, do so wisely. Use the smallest cooking device for the job; a microwave is the most energy-efficient cooking option, for instance, and a toaster oven is more efficient than an oven. Don't run your dishwasher unless it's full, and choose the economy setting to reduce its water and energy use. Particularly if it's the height of summer, run appliances at night (later, say after 9pm, is generally better) when demand for electricity is lower and power plants have excess capacity.
Green your pantry From safe, non-toxic food storage and green cleaning to the basics of whole bulk foods and integrated pest management, your pantry is as important as your kitchen, so apply what you are doing in the kitchen to your pantry.
S G 104
have in them words you cannot pronounce and/or don't recognise as these are the most likely to be over-refined and denatured.
Use non-toxic food storage containers Choose glass, ceramic and stainless steel over plastic whenever possible (unless the plastic is specified as safe for use with foods). These materials are long-lasting, can often be transferred directly from the pantry or fridge to the oven or microwave, and – most importantly – they won't leach chemicals into your food.
Don't overstock canned foods Unfortunately,
some
plastics
aren't
the
only
packaging types that leach chemicals into foods. The lining of cans also contains the suspect chemicals
Stock bulk whole foods
bisphenol-A (BPA) and phthalates, both of which can
The pantry is the place for go-to foods you need
chemicals by more than 50% simply by steering
to make meals. Most of your stores should be real
clear of canned foods, like soups, tuna and beans.
foods – unprocessed whole foods, like grains, root
Canned foods are an important part of emergency
vegetables, legumes, dried fruit and nuts – and
preparedness, though, so you'll probably want to
minimally processed foods like pastas. Don't buy
keep some on hand just in case. Some brands are
foods that have long ingredient lists and which
BPA- and phthalates-free, so look out for these.
mimic human hormones. A recent analysis found that families can reduce their exposure to these
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AEG UltraPerformerTM GREEN is our green bagless vacuum cleaner delivering perfect cleaning results with less effort. This model delivers a 40% energy saving compared to a 2000W (nominal) vacuum cleaner and has the dust pickup of an average 2000W vacuum cleaner. The UltraPerformerTM Green is made from 55% recycled plastic and its packaging from 100% recycled paper. 92% of this vacuum cleaner can be recycled. AEG JetMaxxTM GREEN is our green bagged vacuum cleaner with high speed dust removal. This model delivers a 33% energy saving compared to a 2000W vacuum cleaner and has the dust pickup of an average 2000W vacuum cleaner. The JetMaxxTM Green is made from 55% recycled plastic and its packaging from 100% recycled paper. 92% of this vacuum cleaner can be recycled. The JetMaxxTM GREEN uses a disposable Green s-bag (dust bag) which is made from only natural renewable materials with no performance compromise. AEG ErgoRapidoTM GREEN is our cordless stick vacuum cleaner with excellent dirt pick up off any floor. This model has an auto-off charger that switches off the charging system when the battery is full and also has low power consumption when on standby. The ErgoRapidoTM Green is made from 70% recycled plastic and its packaging from 100% recycled paper. 85% of this vacuum cleaner can be recycled.
3
GIVEAWAY
1 of 3 JetMaxx™ Green valued at R1300 ea. 1 x ErgoRapido™ Green valued at R950 1 x UltraPerformer™ Green valued at R2300
1
Send your full name and contact details HERE by 25 May 2013 to stand a chance of winning one of these great prizes.
The entire range of high-quality AEG Green vacuum cleaners is available exclusively from selected retailers. For more information visit www.aeg.co.za.
1
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How you should read nutrition
 labels
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'My food lifestyle has truly evolved, from one loaded with sugary foods with no nutritional value to one focused on green vegetables and nourishing, whole foods. With that shift, I've also changed the way I read nutrition labels. In fact, grocery shopping for me can be high-involvement, even when buying what should be considered low-involvement purchases, like jam or jelly.' Aimee Hoefler asks if this is a waste of time or even necessary.
M
y new food lifestyle and new way of reading nutrition labels may take more time, but it
Where do the key ingredients fall in the list?
helps to ensure I know what's going
For example, I'd want the first ingredient
into my body and helps me to better
in strawberry jam to be 'strawberries'. Yet,
understand my own food choices. Plus,
often sugar is the first ingredient listed,
once you figure out the foods that work
which then means there is more sugar
for you and get into your own rhythm, it
than fruit. Be aware of the order in which
doesn't have to take so long.
those ingredients appear. They're listed in
Let's face it, every new diet or fad
order of abundance.
tells you that fat is the only concern you are the only indicators. Yet, why not begin
Choose the less processed option
with source, the ingredient list itself?
By
Here are some considerations to keep
'unrefined' or even choosing to use whole
in mind the next time you buy any food
ingredients, you ensure you're consuming
at the grocery store:
a product as close to its natural state
should have or that cholesterol or sodium
How long is the ingredient list?
looking
for
products
that
are
as possible. Now, this can be a difficult step, so all I'm asking you to do is take it small. Start with one ingredient. For
Especially when looking at the ingredients
example, I strive to avoid corn syrup or
for something as simple as jam or jelly.
high fructose corn syrup. It's a highly
Does it really need to contain added sugar
processed sugar that always leaves me
or natural flavourings?
wanting more and more. For me, a wiser
Does sugar need to be on that list?
choice would be coconut sugar or even honey. Know yourself and your patterns and accommodate accordingly.
From corn syrup to anything ending in Photo mamashealth.com
-ose, such as fructose or glucose, is the added sugar really necessary?
Can you pronounce the ingredients and/or know what each ingredient actually is?
Above all, know that every day doesn't have to be perfect Trying your best is a step in the right direction. Know that being conscience of what you are putting into your body by beginning with the ingredients listed on
Often, the simpler the better when it
the product, will mean you are conscience
comes to an ingredient list. Just think
of sodium, sugars, fats, etc., without even
about our body for a moment, and if we
realising it.
can't pronounce an ingredient, do you
Lastly, remember this is part of your
think your body was designed to properly
food lifestyle, so take it one day at a time
digest it? Just be aware that if you have a
and know there is always tomorrow to
choice: go for the item whose ingredients
give it another go.
SG
you can pronounce.
107 S G
Who are you & what do you want? To bring you the best magazine in cyberspace – or anywhere – we want to know more about you and what you like. Click this hyperlink and it will take you to our Mystery Box Lucky Draw Competition* page of our website:
www.simplygreen.co.za *The draw will take place 25 May 2013 at the Green Space Publishing office and the winner will be notified.
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3
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Go to www.oceanbasket.com or www.facebook.com/daoceanbasket for more information
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Grower's Cup Coffee is the energy source that fuels our drive, our creativity and our alertness. It has become the daily stimulus that brings about a smooth, dynamic and open-minded interaction between busy people. Whenever we get together as friends in a social context, or as professionals in a business context cofee plays a key part. Whereas the 'normal' coffee experience is often black, bitter and not really tasty, the Grower's Cup experience will be rich, pleasant and tasteful. Grower's Cup is a solution for a great many situations as it combines single serve convenience with premium quality. Whether you are climbing a mountain, working in an office with a poor coffee choice, doing long-distance travelling, as long as you have access to hot water, Grower's Cup allows you to brew tasty and refreshing coffee anywhere, anytime. With an effort of going green, they have carefully designed the packaging involving materials that present a minimum impact on the environment. The pouch is made from PE (6,6 g) and a minimal amount of PET (1,6 g). PE is basically coal (C) and hydrogen (H2), both are a natural part of out environment and therefore not harmful. The paper is sourced from reforested Swedish woods.
www.growerscup.co.za 109 S G
? KN OW YO U
DI D GlassDharma Glass Straws bring a new definition to 'Sipping Responsibly'. There are so many ways to green your lifestyle. Incorporating healthier foods, removing potentially toxic items from your house and growing a garden of organic foods are major changes that might seem daunting, but sometimes can make a big difference. GlassDharma straws are made from borosilicate glass – the safest and strongest glass commercially available. They are dishwasher and microwave safe, and also come with a lifetime guarantee thanks to their promise that if your straw breaks, it will be repaired or replaced. Not only do glass straws replace their toxic plastic counterparts, their beauty and style are really fun to add into your green living toolbox.
The straws are: Great for both hot and cold drinks
Caturra has entered the increasingly
ISBN 978 184949 300 0
launch of their espresso capsules to be
Anjum has been seen on BBC and has written several books. This is a a pleasing book even if you are not particular about Indian Cookbooks, but have been wanting to try this fresh and flavoursome food for yourself. While content is king the pictures matter a lot when it comes to delighting in cook books per se; and in this case the recipes are brought to life with the help of the pictures. I also find this recipe book easy to handle, easy to understand and easy to enjoy. Go ahead, Now enjoy the taste.
sold nationwide at leading supermarket chain, Checkers. Caturra's
Nespresso-compatible
range consists of a number of exciting blends. The coffee is sealed within moments of being ground to guarantee freshness. With each capsule boasting a unique character and aroma, it's almost like becoming your own barista. 'As the trend for coffee capsules grows, we've received many enquiries from our valued clients and customers for capsules that are compatible with leading coffee machines and extractors. To meet this need we've developed a product that is not only practical, convenient and economical, but also guarantees a perfect cup of coffee every time,' says Klaus Becker, Caturra Managing Director. In line with the brand's environmentally-conscious
Different sizes for different drinks:
capsules are made from biodegradable
policies,
the
bubble teas, iced drinks, shakes and
plastic and are packaged in a home
smoothies
compostable pouch. With many industry
cafes Helpful for those worried about tooth
ANJUM'S INDIAN FOOD Anjum Anand
attractive coffee capsules market with the
Kid-friendly and safe
Beautiful accessory for cocktails or
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Caturra launches coffee capsule range
studies showing that coffee is amongst the most popular beverages in the world, an environmentally friendly alternative is
staining: try with wine, coffee and
of particular importance in the context of
tea
daily global consumption.
"
People’s experience of eating Indian food in the west is not a true reflection of the real food we eat at home, which is lighter, fresher and far more well balanced than the offerings at Indian restaurants. I try to showcase the true face of Indian food. But, mostly, I cook food which fits into our hectic lives today and helps us work towards our ideals of being healthy.
"
20416S Spur_April 2013 SASSI
SUPPORTING SASSI
John Dory’s takes pride in its relationship with The Southern African Sustainable Seafood Initiative (SASSI), realising how vital responsible fishing practices are to our depleted ocean resources. Vist www.johndorys.co.za for more info.
SPUR CORPORATION:
FISHING FOR THE FUTURE John Dory’s Fish, Grill & Sushi strives to support sustainable, well-managed fisheries and responsible aquaculture, through the assistance of Spur Corporation’s (Spur Steak Ranches; Panarottis Pizza Pasta; John Dory’s and DoRego’s) procurement commitment. The Spur Corporation believes it is critical that we maintain healthy and productive marine ecosystems, species and livelihoods, as well as sustainable business practices. John Dory’s de¬fines sustainable seafood as: seafood which originates from a ¬fishery or farm which could continue to operate inde¬finitely without reducing the target species’ ability (or any other species in the marine ecosystems) to maintain a viable population. A SUSTAINABLE SPECIES SHOULD: • Not be a species that is regarded as endangered or threatened • Be caught in a well-managed fishery • Be caught/farmed using responsible fishing or farming methods • Be traceable from ‘boat to plate’
John Dory’s overall goal is to increase the availability of sustainable seafood and promote responsible ¬ fishing practices within its restaurants. They recognise that a signi¬ficant proportion of the world’s fisheries/aquaculture facilities do not currently meet internationally accepted standards of sustainability. For these operations, rather than simply discontinue sourcing, they would rather use Spur Corporation’s buying power to provide both an incentive and a path to become sustainable. John Dory’s is further committed to providing consumers with accurate information about the sustainability of their seafood choices through making information available on their menu and website as well as through well-trained staff and management.
Know your seafood! SMS the name of the fish to 079 499 8795 to check on the sustainability of the species. Visit www.wwfsassi.co.za
Visit www.spurcorporation.co.za
111 S G
your green tv show guide The must-see shows for all things green, organic & healthy on the home front. maY 2013 Get It Done
Local Series: New Season Tues: 7.30pm • Wed 10pm • 11.30am • Fri 3.30pm • Sat 2.30pm & 10.30pm • 9.30am & 7.30pm
Our DIY experts Annelien and Peter are back with more great projects for you to tackle. From cupboards to garden chairs, wine racks to bookshelves, they’ll show you what you need, how to do it and what mistakes to avoid. DIY for people who don’t.
Colin & Justin Home Heist Mon 8pm • Tues 8am • Wed 12pm • Thurs 4pm • Sat 12pm & 5pm • Sun 7am & 1pm
Britain’s most outrageous decorating duo are on a mission to overhaul Canada’s tackiest interiors and bring good taste and design to all. They hijack hideous houses and put the tasteless owners under house arrest until they atone for their design sins by redecorating to Colin and Justin’s new design. From boring bedrooms and calamitous kitchens, to S G 112
delinquent dens and dreary dining rooms, Colin and Justin seek out the worst infractions, and then they strike. While still reeling from the ambush pertinent homeowners are forced to undo their style crimes under supervision from the experts.
The Arrangement Mon 6pm • Tues 11pm • Wed • 10am • Thurs 2pm
The Arrangement showcases the amazing skills of accomplished floral designers, each with their own story and unique point-of-view. With Head Judge Eric Buterbaugh of the Four Seasons Beverly Hills and bestselling author Host Gigi Levangie Grazier, The Arrangement is must-see-TV for the entire family. Week after week, the designers put the petal to the metal for a chance to stay in The Arrangement and prove that they are the best floral designer in the nation. Our floral design expert judges, along with celebrity guests like Nancy O’Dell, LaLa Vasquez, Omarosa, Antonio Sabato Jr, and Shanna Moakler, will critique each arrangement, determine a winning design, and eliminate one person per episode.
The Gardener
Local Series: Season 12 Tues 9pm • Wed 9am • Thurs 1pm • Fri 5pm • Sat 10am & 7pm • Sun 3pm & 10pm
SA’s favourite gardener Tanya Visser is back again. This practical 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. She’ll also tackle some bigger DIY garden projects that you can really get your back into as well as save you money, like a pebble creating a water feature and sleeper steps.
Garden Angels Tues 9.30pm • Wed 9.30pm • 1.30pm • 5.30pm • Sat 11.30am & 8.30pm • Sun 4.30pm & 11pm
This brand new series presented by eminently qualified horticulturalists Melissa King, Jody Rigby and Linda Ross. The Garden Angels will help you bring the confidence you feel inside your home out into the garden. Whether you’re an absolute beginner or simply want ideas and inspiration this series will show you how to get out into your garden, get your hands dirty and start growing.
garden angels
Leave it to Bryan Mon 7pm • Tues 10.30pm • Wed 11am • Thurs 3pm • Sat 1.30pm & 9.30pm • Sun 8.30am & 5.30pm
Homeowners get a much needed reality check in the ultimate reno tug of war between wants and needs. Couples pitch veteran contractor Bryan Baeumler the spaces they want renovated most, but leave Bryan with the final verdict. With Bryan making his choice based on the biggest need, priorities clash and reno dreams are put on pause. Watch as homeowners are forced to re-evaluate their reno expectations and how Bryan takes their renovations from gut to glory.
Extreme Clutter Mon 5pm • Wed 9pm • Thurs 9am • Fri 1pm
colin & justin home heist get it done
Organisational expert Peter Walsh is on a mission of helping families whose lives are dramatically affected by the overwhelming presence of clutter. He encounters the biggest, most extreme problems and forces these families to face the truth about the damaging effects of possessing too much stuff. Peter guides families through the emotional journey of overcoming attachment to their stuff. He pinpoints the root of the clutter problem, restores structure, and provides them with practical tools needed to live a clutter-free and more fulfilling life.
Great Taste No Money Mon 10pm • Tues 11.30am • Wed 3.30pm • Fri 7.30pm • Sat 10.30am & 7.30pm, Sun 3.30pm & 10.30pm
Great Taste/No Money delivers great design for little cash, as it spins through design do’s and don’ts by re-organising ordinary people’s houses with opinions, energy, shopping expeditions and other antics. Humorous and inspiring sequences reveal just how easy and accessible good taste and flair can be.
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Pet
Mush It Up A
s with most people, I have always known of
frustrated if they don't release their energy by sledding
the breed of dogs we collectively call huskies.
in a positive way – in a pack. The evidence is irrefutable
It was around five years ago when we got
for my wife and I have seen first-hand the positive effect
our first husky and came to the realisation of how
S G 114
of sledding on huskies.
misunderstood these animals were. My wife and I had a
In the past five years, we have done roughly 7 200
look at training schools and we ended up at a sledding
sledding sessions with groups of four to even 24
club for huskies. This is where we learnt the basics of
huskies in a group. In these teams we have huskies from
sledding huskies on dry land. It was a one-day-a-week
just about any background. Re-homed huskies, huskies
course for sledding our huskies, leaving at 4am in the
that have never been exercised, huskies used for dog
morning every Sunday for a year, but we soon realised
fighting, huskies from kennels, the great escape artists,
that one sledding session a week for these animals just
the less socialised husky, abused huskies, and the list
wasn't enough. In my eyes they are the single most
goes on. In all these cases we have had great success by
misunderstood animals in SA.
introducing sledding to these amazing creatures. They
There are many unwanted huskies out there purely
socialise, have fun, burn energy, learn commands and
because people get them for their beauty and all the
ultimately destress by doing what they were born and
wrong reasons, but people soon realise how much of a
love to do.
handful they are to own. The reason for that is that most
Huskies are extremely intelligent animals, but they
people don't do their homework and therefore don't
have a mind of their own. The only way to get through
realise that these incredible creatures are born to work
to them is if their energy is spent and the only way to
and pull sleds. They are working animals and get easily
do that, in our experience, is to take them sledding.
Sam Gunter shares his story of becoming part of the pack of a misunderstood breed. There are alternatives to sledding such as bikjoring and
they truly are a unique breed and worlds apart from your
canicross (were you run with them for a few kilometres),
normal everyday canine. If you are considering owning a
but sledding in a large group with other huskies is what
husky please do your homework first and consider the
they love the most, and has the most impact you would
fact that they chew your clothing, couches, dig up your
like to see on your husky. It's a combination of working
garden, jump your wall, howl, demand lots of attention
and socialising as a team as they sled while running in
and, most importantly, are sled dogs.
a controlled and safe environment.
Huskies are wonderful additions to your family
It's sad that this breed is so misunderstood and that
and you couldn't ask for a better companion and
most husky owners don't realise that sledding exists in
child-friendly pet, providing they are well fed and
SA. That is why it is so important to create awareness
exercised regularly. If you do all of the above you will
about the proper needs of these amazing animals, such
have a friend for life like no other.
SG
as training and proper diet. The saying 'you are what you eat' has never been more true in this circumstance, as by feeding them a specially formulated raw food
For anyone needing information on how to train your husky,
diet designed strictly for huskies we have seen better
you can contact Sam on facebook or alternatively email
results in their happiness levels. They are not meant to
mush.it.up@gmail.com. They are more than willing to help
eat the 'traditional' kibble as they need specific needs of
with any issues you might have with your husky, they offer
a high-protein diet, vegetables and water in its natural
training, equipment and the correct diet, factors that are
form for maximum absorption in their system.
conducive to having a healthy and happy husky, so lets all
By working with these animals we have realised that
make a difference together. 115 S G
Pet
Awaken a Part of Your Soul The World of Dogs and Cats & Pet Expo (WODAC) which takes place from 19-21 July at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand is a magical gateway to discovering the joys, responsibilities and rewards of pet ownership. It’s the perfect place to search for and find that pet that will complement and complete your family. If you want to add this magic to your life or reward your pets for their love and loyalty, bring family and friends to shop for special treats, and experience the many ways in which pets of all kinds can enrich your life. Meet the breeds, talk to the breeders, shop for pet-related products, consider adopting a pet, speak to experts in animal nutrition, behaviour, optimal healthcare and well-being. This year’s expo will feature such fan-favourites as the halls of dogs, cats, birds, fish, exotic pets and reptiles and the National Cat Show, where you’ll meet the full array of fabulous and fascinating feline breeds. Horse lovers will be spellbound by 2013’s exciting, expanded equine attractions with a program devoted completely to The Magic of Horses. Delight in a packed and entertaining program for the whole family with events like the Dogs of the World Parade; Dog Agility; Canine Survivor; Flyball; Dog Carting Display; 60-Weaving Pole Challenge; the Dancing with Dogs SA Champs; and the WODAC Dog Show. Anatole France, winner of the 1921 Nobel Prize in Literature, once said: 'Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.' Come awaken a part of your soul at the World of Dogs and Cats & Pet Expo 2013. For more info visit www.dogscats.co.za
Shampoos and Scrubs
'As custodians of the planet it is our responsibility to treat all species with kindness, love and compassion. That these animals suffer through human cruelty is beyond understanding.
Please help to stop this madness.' - Richard Gere
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Shampooing your dog or cat should be done very seldom. In fact, a healthy pet, with healthy skin and good bacteria does not need to be washed often. One still needs to avoid shampoos that are chemically-based as these can aggravate the skin. Rather treat your pets using natural shampoos, scrubs and oils.
EU bans cosmetic testing on animals
After years of petitions and delays, animals will no longer be used to test makeup, skin care products and other products in the EU. After 23 years, the European Coalition to End Animal Experiments (ECEAU) has succeeded in banning the use of animals in cosmetics testing in all member countries of the EU. All personal-care products, from high-end to drugstore brands, will be subject to the rules, which means that final products cannot be tested on animals and neither can any of a given products' ingredients. For some time, the long pushed-for ban has been debated and put off, and according to the ECEAU, its final success was due to the work of Tonio Borg, the new European Commissioner for Health and Consumer Policy. 'The former European Commissioner in charge of the EU's cosmetics regulations had been considering recommendations to delay or weaken the ban, allowing the cosmetics industry to continue testing cosmetic products and ingredients on animals until they could find alternative methods,' details the ECEAU, but it went through, thanks to Borg's urging. Cosmetics will still be tested for safety by the companies that make them, using agreed-upon methods of non-animal testing. The group's next goal is to end the use of animals in scientific experiments (12 million animals a year are used in Europe for this purpose). Do you think animal testing is different today than what you may have heard about in the '90s when this issue received a lot of attention? According to the Humane Society's excellent FAQ on animal testing in the US: Although they are not required by law, several tests are commonly performed by exposing mice, rats, rabbits, guinea pigs and other animals to cosmetics ingredients. This can include: skin and eye irritation tests where chemicals are rubbed onto the shaved skin or dripped into the eyes of restrained rabbits without any pain relief; repeated force-feeding studies lasting weeks or months to look for signs of general illness or specific health hazards such as cancer or birth defects, and widely condemned 'lethal dose' tests, in which animals are forced to swallow large amounts of a test chemical to determine the dose that causes death. At the end of a test the animals are killed, normally by asphyxiation, neck-breaking or decapitation. Pain relief is not provided. In the US, a large percentage of the animals used in such testing (such as laboratory-bred rats and mice) are not counted in official statistics and receive no protection under the Animal Welfare Act. Do you think a ban on animal testing for cosmetics is possible in the US, SA and the rest of the world? Tell us what you think and let's see what increased awareness can achieve. Email us your comments HERE.
My Life with Leopards: Graham Cooke's Story Fransje Van Riel Penguin • 978 0 1435 3029 9 This is a truly touching and inspirational book for any animal lover and non-lover alike. It is the journey of one man's connection with two very different leopard siblings as they grow and learn through his guidance and protection. It takes us from their very first meeting to finally letting them go to live the life of wild animals. The beautifully written words let you feel as if you are connected to the cubs as they explore the world. The real story was that of trust and letting go, something that animals know instinctively. Maybe if we all just learned a little from our four-legged friends life would not seem as complicated.
Save Me From The Lion’s Mouth James Clarke Random House Struik • 978 1 9205 4475 1 If you are looking for an easy read on a Sunday afternoon then this is definitely not the book for you. It is, however, an extremely honest account of the battle between humans and wildlife written in a journalistic style. This book suggests that many are blind to the seriousness of the situation that we face daily, how rural communities living near game reserves are becoming resentful of the animals. There is a lot of history blended in with amazing insight, so if learning about what is really going on in the world is something that interests you then James Clarke is an author you will enjoy.
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Conservation
Rhino
'On 4 May the Rhino Knights team, myself, my husband Lloyd and my sister Raphaela will head out from Durban towards Cape Town on a 10 000km campaign around Southern Africa. Our mission is to
I
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n early 2009, the entire population of 11
Cape we synchronistically met Dr Ian Player who
rhino were killed at our horse trail business
has since become our mentor and friend guiding
based in the former Transkei. Four were shot
us in our quest to find ultimate purpose in life –
with a permit and the rest were poached within
'Rhino Knights' under the banner of our NPO, Earth
a year. Overpopulation by man hungry for food,
Awareness, was the result. Earth Awareness is
space, power and more has led to a dwindling
about creating awareness of self, others and the
animal and plant kingdom. Every 12 hours about
environment which ultimately creates greater care
2 000kg of rhino life is slaughtered for about 5kg
for our planet and the living.
of horn weight. With all that is being done rhino
During the Rhino Knights campaign every day on
poaching is still very much on the increase and
the move I will run a half marathon (21kms); cycle
at this current rate our children will not lay their
55kms and, on the same day, horse ride an entry
eyes upon this species as adults. A demand for
level endurance event of 25kms. Some parts of the
horn in Asian countries has caused symptoms of
journey may be done without the horse component
large-scale slaughter, poaching, violence, greed and
and the travelled distance on foot and bicycle
corruption. When we moved away from the Eastern
will therefore increase. Covering a daily distance
Knights ď ™
solve the Rhino poaching problem through global awareness and action creating a collective conservation consciousness. By saving this species we believe that the world makes a standpoint to protect this planet and preserve its biodiversity,' says Isabel Wolf-Gillespie. She reports. of on average 100kms, our route will take us through some beautiful, yet harsh and very remote countryside in SA, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe
and Mozambique, and back to Durban. Assisted by a support vehicle, Lloyd, Raphaela and I will cover the distance in about five months. During the campaign we will network with as many conservation organisations and individuals from reserves and parks to show our support and, through a survey, gain knowledge and information on the current rhino situation. The publicly involving social media awareness drive aims to cover the world with Rhino
'The publicly involving social media awareness drive aims to cover the world with Rhino Knights, uniting our voices as one for Rhino. Along our route we have arranged educational talks at schools to motivate and inspire the next generation, and encourage people to run and cycle with us on our route.'
Knights, uniting our voices as one for rhinos. Along our route we have arranged educational
generation. To show support for the remaining and
talks at schools to motivate and inspire the next
future rhinos we are asking the public to run and
119 S G
WATCH THIS!
Riding for Horses equine outreach The team's previous project
It is so easy to get caught up in life, trying to fight daily battles that we don't notice how nature and its bountiful wildlife is being destroyed and exploited in front of our eyes; which reminds me of what Gandhi said: 'Earth provides enough for every man's needs but not for every mans greed.'
cycle with us along our route, fun runs and events are
rhino are in fact in a crisis. A country flooded by rubbish
being set up to raise funds and involve the sporting
and litter, 668 dead rhino last year and 204 dead this
community. Information on dates, times, and so on can
year already, a list of endangered species worldwide
be found on our website www.earthawareness.co.za.
that continuously grows, and natural resources being
Funds raised during this campaign will be allocated
used beyond the limits. I ask you the question, how
to the Lawrence Anthony Earth Organisation and the
many more facts or signs do we actually need? The
Magqubu Ntombela Foundation, an initiative of Dr
signs and facts are plain to see but we have to choose
Ian Player's, for their Anti-poaching, intelligence and
to see them and respond to them.
educational initiatives. Through this campaign, we are
Writing this article I tell myself to look up from my
encouraging real social change that's needed for the
desk to see the beauty outside my office door that
better of our planet.
opens out onto the garden. Nature offers us generously
As I write this I have just returned from my daily
and without asking for anything in return. It is so easy
two-hour training run and each and every day I am
to get caught up in life, trying to fight daily battles that
inspired by the beauty surrounding me while I am
we don't notice how nature and its bountiful wildlife
out there. I exercise at dawn every morning and an
are being destroyed and exploited in front of our eyes.
incredible amount of birds in all colours are flying
I listen, I see and I hear nature's desperate cry for help.
and chirping around me, the sun is shining warm on
Suddenly I remember again why I have made this
my face and the trees and branches sway gently back
my life and purpose – I don't want this beauty being
and forth in the wind. In preparation for this journey
destroyed, irreversibly.
I have put myself on a hard exercise schedule. Each
I remember the feeling of being outdoors on
morning I run passed the gogos and gardeners who
a camping trip in the Drakensberg or in the bush
are on their way to work and by now we recognise each
somewhere surrounded by nature and all that lives.
other. Along with their hearty smiles and waves I often
The trees, the birds, the plants, the wildlife – sitting on
receive comments like, 'Hau! Young lady now you are
my office chair I allow myself to feel the connection,
fit enough to run the marathon' or 'Eish Ma, mustn't
the freedom and the happiness they bring. In our
gym when it's raining'. They speak with disbelief and
own private capacity we all have the power to make a
at the same time admiration and few others can lift my
difference.
SG
spirits as much they do. The preparation and organisation of this campaign
As a Rhino Knight I urge you to become a voice for the rhino, join
has been exceedingly challenging, filled with daily
us on the road, become a donor or support the campaign by
disappointments and successes. I get so caught up in
becoming a sponsor. If you would like to be involved in any way
the stresses and the pressure of this that I sometimes have to remind myself why I actually want to do this. Not too long ago I attended a meeting and a person
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please contact me on 076 577 1936 or isabel@ridingforhorses. co.za. Follow our journey on the Rhino Knights Facebook page and through the weekly video upload of Rhino Knights on Youtube. Donations can be made via our website www.
there glossed over the rhino crisis situation making out
earthawareness.co.za, on Givengain or Donate R10 by SMSing
that there are not enough obvious facts and signs that
the word RHINOKNIGHTS to 48716.
SWIPE YOUR WORLD
BEAUTIFUL
WITH MYPLANET
WHEN YOU SHOP, GIVE SOMETHING BACK!
WITH A MYPLANET CARD YOU CAN RAISE FUNDS FOR THE EWT RHINO FUND WITHOUT COSTING A CENT! GIVING BACK IS NOW EVEN MORE REWARDING...
Simply get a free MySchool MyVillage MyPlanet card and select the EWT MyPlanet Rhino Fund as your beneficiary. Then, every time you swipe your card at our retail partners (such as Woolworths, Waltons, kalahari.com, Reggie’s, Toys R Us, Engen Foodstops and many more) they will donate a percentage of what you have spent to the charity of your choice, on your behalf. Every swipe counts!
GET YOUR CARD NOW at any Woolworths store, at www.myplanet.co.za or call 0860 100 445.
C orporate
social initiative
I
n
the
modern
companies
of
business all
age,
sizes
are
beginning to realise the tangible
and sustainable value that dedicated involvement
in
Corporate
Social
Investment (CSI) brings. In the South African context, this involvement is even more important, owing to the delicate socio-economic situation that prevails in the country, with millions of people in urgent need of basic services that will uplift them, and offer an opportunity of a better life. Besides the value that will be provided to local communities and the legacy for SA, engaging in CSI projects has the capacity to engender a considerable difference to the short- and long-term prosperity of any organisation, whether they are a major banking institution, or a small-to-medium enterprise. Companies that align themselves to an effective CSI program will find that business benefits accrue in the form of brand recognition, increased sales, return on investment (ROI), tax benefits, and, most importantly, fostering trust with employees and the general public. Businesses are already acutely
deskbags
aware
of
the
implementing
importance public
of
relations
messages that are consistent with the organisation's core values and ethos. Supporting a CSI initiative is the most effective way for these companies to formulate a message that their concerns as a business
The concept of corporate social investment (CSI) or corporate social responsibility (CSR), is often misinterpreted in that it is thought that only large corporate companies should contribute to community needs through large investments, as a social duty. Madelain Roscher, Managing Director of communications firm PR Worx, and originator of educational CSI product, DeskBags, elaborates. S G 122
extend beyond their own prospects. Essentially, they will be able to communicate that they are cognisant of the wider societal benefits that can result from heightened involvement in worthy public causes. Perhaps
one
of
the
best
examples of an initiative that creates a lasting value for both society and companies is DeskBags, a school bag that provides a portable desk solution. This CSI initiative, which is
Supporting a CSI initiative is the most effective way for these companies to formulate a message that their concerns as a business extend beyond their own prospects. the brainchild of PR Worx, is uplifting educational standards in Africa. DeskBags offers an innovative solution to the prevailing desk shortage problem being experienced in rural areas throughout Africa, with research showing that over 4m scholars in SA require school desks. DeskBags provides a definitive but temporary answer to this problem, by producing a product that not only serves a purpose as a functional and eco-friendly school bag, but when folded open, it also provides instant desk support. As the bags are made from recycled vinyl billboard materials, and the flap is reinforced with ABS plastic sheeting, the product is so durable that if looked after well, one can last an entire school career. These bags are also waterproof, reflective and light enough that even pre-primary scholars can use them. Schools in need of a temporary desk solution, can apply to DeskBags to receive the product free of charge as corporate companies help sponsor the production costs thereof. Once companies have placed an order for DeskBags, whether it is for 100 or 100 000 bags, they are provided with a list of schools or areas in need of support. All arrangements, including the hand-over, media liaison and photography are managed on their behalf, and they simply need to be present on the day of the hand-over to represent their company, and witness the children's appreciation. Companies that have participated in this CSI initiative have not only made a considerable difference to the lives of children, but have also significantly enhanced their own corporate image. These companies have been able to display their branding prominently on the DeskBag, thereby clearly demonstrating their support for a meaningful CSI and educational cause. Considering the numerous benefits that accrue from heightened involvement in CSI causes, both large corporates and small and medium enterprises should seriously consider partnering with an effective CSI partner such as DeskBags, and ultimately create
on-the-ground change in SA. Committing wholeheartedly in this regard will also encourage a host of other companies to replicate these efforts, and help achieve a positive legacy for our country. SG
123 S G
A griculture
Photo www.la-motte.com
The gradual decline in farm numbers, coupled with an increase in average acreage, is by no means unique to SA.
Is bigger really better for
SA agriculture? While farms are growing and consolidating, this is not necessarily having an overly positive impact on the effectiveness of SA's agriculture on the global stage. We take a look.
W
the
unique to SA. It's a trend that has been gathering pace
sustainability of agriculture in South Africa
in some of the largest agricultural markets around the
hile
it
is
widely
accepted
that
relies in large part on the willingness of
world. In the US, there were 6.6m farms employing
commercial farmers to nurture and support emerging
13.5m workers in 1910. A century later, the number
smaller farmers, it would appear that the space
of US farms is down to 2.18m, employing fewer than
available for smallholders in SA is rapidly diminishing.
3m workers.
The main culprit behind this is the increasing
While it could be argued that, given SA's increasing
recognition of the value of economies of scale for the
urbanisation, the country will still get by with fewer, but
viability and profitability of the commercial farmer –
significantly larger, commercial farms, but balancing
with the result that many are effectively ‘elbowing out'
such consolidation with government's commitment
small and medium-sized enterprises.
to redress in terms of historic land issues will require
The numbers tell the story. In the last decade,
exceptional political and economic insight.
the number of commercial farms in SA fell by more
What is vital, however, is that stakeholders
than 13% from 45 800 in 2002 to 39 900 in 2007,
acknowledge that the consolidation of farming in SA
according to the Census of Commercial Agriculture
is inevitable and irreversible in the long term. While
published by Statistics SA. That's a long way down
such consolidation may raise concerns about SA's
from the estimated 58 000 such commercial farms in
ability to retain its position as a net food exporter in
the country twenty years ago.
decades to come, the country's agriculture sector has
But while farms are growing and consolidating, this
a strong history of being able to adapt and change;
is not necessarily having an overly positive impact on
and it certainly has the resources and expertise to do
the effectiveness of SA's agriculture on the global stage
the same again in the future and continue to deliver a
– because only around 8% of our commercial farms are
valuable contribution to the country's social upliftment
actually large enough to compete internationally.
and economic development imperatives.
This gradual decline in farm numbers, coupled with an increase in average acreage, is by no means
S G 124
Visit http://blog.nedbankcapital.co.za for more.
SG
we’re on the right track.
Nedbank is the Sustainable Bank of the Year for Middle East and Africa. We were recently awarded the title ‘Sustainable Bank of the Year for Middle East and Africa’. Nedbank took top honours in the sustainability sector at the Financial Mail/International Finance Corporation Sustainable Finance Awards 2012 ceremony in London. The 2012 achievement is our third accolade in this category and an acknowledgement that the sustainability journey we began over 20 years ago has positioned us well to support our clients as we transition to a greener economy. Forging ahead we will continue to lead by example today for a better tomorrow. For more information on our green journey visit www.nedbankgreen.co.za.
Nedbank Ltd Reg No 1951/000009/06, VAT Reg No 4320116074, 135 Rivonia Road, Sandown, Sandton, 2196, South Africa. We subscribe to the Code of Banking Practice of The Banking Association South Africa and, for unresolved disputes, support resolution through the Ombudsman for Banking Services. We are an authorised financial services provider. We are a registered credit provider in terms of the National Credit Act (NCR Reg No NCRCP16).
purpleberry 0912/7264
Earning accolades for our sustainability effort tells us
Garden
PREPARING FOR A
WINTER WO S G 126
F
or many years I only grew herbs and a few greens in my vegetable garden during winter. Summer vegetables seemed easier (and more fun) and winter became a
time of dormancy for me and my garden. That all changed after I planted broccoli for the first time. It quickly grew into a luscious bed of edible heads. But the best surprise was how long they lasted. As long as I kept snipping off the newly developed side shoots before they flowered, we ate nutritious broccoli for months. Since then I have grown many members of the Brassica family and along the way I've fallen in love this prolific and interesting family.
Brassica Basics Kale, mustard, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and many more are all Brassicas. Probably the only other vegetable family with a wider diversity of shapes and sizes is the Cucurbit or squash family. As Brassicas are heavy feeders, enrich the soil with compost and add a slow release, balanced fertiliser before planting. All Brassicas prefer more alkaline soil and benefit from some lime being added before planting. This helps prevent club root, a fungal disease affecting the Brassica family. Rhubarb leaves, which are very high in oxalic acid, also help to prevent club root. Water the ground with a rhubarb drench before sowing seeds or transplanting seedlings. Crop rotation also reduces chances of club root developing. Brassicas should not follow one another in the same spot for at least two years. Birds are one of the biggest pests for Brassicas. Your patch of cabbages and cauliflowers can be wiped out in one afternoon by a hungry flock of mousebirds or loeries. Especially as there is little else for them to eat in the middle of winter. Once they discover your garden they come back year after year. The only way to really protect your plants is to cover them with netting – and to supply the birds with a food source as far away from your Brassicas as possible.
Brassica Secrets Some Brassicas, such as kale and mustard, are leafy greens and can be grown as such. Others – particularly broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and cabbage – require a little more care. These vegetables all develop buds, either a large single one like cabbage, or a mass of them, like broccoli. These Brassicas have four stages of growth. In the early stages they concentrate on developing their roots and leaves. During the second stage, the outer leaves develop. The third stage is the most important, as this is when the plant builds up nutrients in the outer leaves. The third stage is the time that Brassicas most appreciate being fed some extra food. Once sufficient nutrients are stored, the plant transfers them from the older outer leaves to the internal buds, which develop very quickly during the fourth stage. Feeding Brassicas during the fourth stage won't make much difference as the growth is too fast for the roots to keep pumping nutrients to the heads. All the growth is drawn from the outer leaves. So we need to feed our Brassicas with a balanced diet before the heads start developing. They require a balanced organic fertiliser, such as Talborne Vita Veg, as this will help build large, healthy heads and buds.
ONDERLAND 127 S G
When Brassicas have finished bearing, pull the entire plant out, roots and all, and compost it. Leaving the stumps in the ground encourages club root. Why grow ordinary white cauliflower or green broccoli? There are many interesting varieties available from local seed companies. Wow your dinner guests with purple broccoli or green spiraled Romanesque cauliflower.
Planting tips Most Brassicas prefer cooler weather and will produce the
Brassica
biggest and sweetest heads during the coldest months. They take four to five months to reach maturity, so time your sowing accordingly. Because they take a while to reach transplanting size, sow seeds in seed trays rather than in situ. When transplanting seedlings press the ground down firmly. Most Brassicas are heavy by the time they reach maturity and benefit from their roots being in firm soil. All Brassicas love growing alongside aromatic and flowering plants such as rosemary, sage and calendula.
Cabbage Cabbage is one of the easiest Brassicas to grow, as it is not too fussy about climate or soil. It comes in a variety of colours and shapes, from compact red ones to large frilly green ones. Although it prefers cooler weather, it can be grown almost throughout the year – however, avoid cabbages maturing in midsummer or sowing seeds in midwinter. Although cabbages
Cabbage
consist of a mass of green leaves, don't make the mistake of thinking they need a nitrogen-rich soil. Too much nitrogen makes the inner leaves grow too quickly and causes the heads to split. Cabbages like full sun and consistent moisture throughout their growing period. A good way to protect cabbages from leaf-eating bugs is to sprinkle tansy, feverfew, artemisia or pyrethrum in amongst their leaves. More than most vegetables, cabbages benefit from polyculture plantings instead of monoculture. Interplanting with dill, coriander, anise, oregano, borage, nasturtium, sage and thyme will repel leaf-eating insects and camouflage the distinctive shape of
Kale
the cabbage.
Kale Kale is a quick-growing leafy vegetable. It is very similar to cabbage except it doesn't form a head in the middle. It is hardy, easy to grow and is subject to very few pest attacks or diseases. It prefers growing during cooler months and likes moist conditions. Kale is easily grown from seed and isn't too fussy about
Broccoli &Cauliflower S G 128
its soil. It prefers full sun, except during the hotter months, when it benefits from some shade. It needs consistent watering and well-mulched soil. Kale grows well with strong-flavoured herbs such as basil, parsley and sage. Kale is not a delicate green, like spinach, which only needs to be cooked for a short time. Kale benefits from being thoroughly cooked, particularly the tougher, curly-leafed varieties.
Broccoli Broccoli is a superhero when it comes to packing a
Brussels sprouts
nutritional punch. It contains high levels of vitamins, calcium, beta-carotene, potassium and iron. When buying seedlings, choose compact ones rather than tall leggy ones, as these will transplant more smoothly. If you crowd the plants closer, the heads will be smaller. Keep an eye out for leaf-eating bugs which can damage the central growing point, especially when the seedlings are small. Harvest the central head while compact, even if it's quite small. If it starts looking loose, cut it immediately otherwise the buds will open and flower. Cut it at an angle about 10 cm below the head. As the weather becomes cooler it will continue producing side shoots. Harvest them before they flower, otherwise the plant will stop producing more shoots.
Cauliflower Unlike broccoli, which continues to produce side heads after the first harvest, cauliflower is a once-off deal. Despite this, it is worth planting a few in a small vegetable garden as freshly picked cauliflower has a flavour and crunchiness far surpassing your average supermarket offering. Cauliflower needs constant moisture, rich soil and just the right temperatures to form a good head. Different varieties have differing lengths of maturity, head sizes and resistance to warmer weather. They must be transplanted very gently with as little disturbance to the roots as possible. They produce better heads if grown in a firm soil. When the heads are a good size (6.5-10cm in diameter) cover them with some bigger outer leaves to keep them from being sunburned. Simply tie a few large leaves together over the top of the head. Check every few days after doing this to see if they are ready – once they start forming they grow big quickly. Heads should be cut when they are compact and firm. Don't let them become loose or develop individual florets.
Brussels sprouts Brussels sprouts are one of the most challenging of the Brassicas to grow, especially in a home vegetable garden where they take up quite a bit of space. Freshly picked sprouts, which have been steamed for a few minutes, are crisp and delicious. If you have the space and are feeling adventurous, try growing them. Brussels sprouts like cool, moist weather. They need firm soil, so press the ground down well before transplanting seedlings. Keep them moist and mulched throughout their growing season. When their top growth starts filling out, pull the mulch and soil up around the base of their stems to support them. It helps to grow them in groups of three and, once they are nearly fully-grown, tie their tops together to form a tripod. Aphids love Brussels sprouts so keep an eye out for them. Spraying with a garlic/soap spray will get rid of them. As the plant matures, the bottom leaves turn yellow. Remove them by cutting or pulling them gently downwards. Start harvesting sprouts when they are a decent size and firm. Pick them from the bottom of the stem first. After the last sprouts are harvested, cut off the top leafy growth and cook it like cabbage. Thanks to Brassicas I am now as active in my garden in winter as summer and my garden rewards me by producing an endless supply of delicious winter vegetables.
SG
Brassica sources The Gravel Garden www.thegravelgarden.com Livingseeds www.livingseeds.co.za The Goode Garden Shoppe www.organicseeds.co.za Sought after Seedlings www.soughtafterseedlings.co.za Mahlathini Organic Seeds mahlathini@gracenet.co.za
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.
129 S G
â– www.wallpapersdesign.net
Food
growurown
S G 130
When we hear that, as quoted at a Global Alliance to Improve Nutrition (GAIN) conference, one in six children are malnourished and are disease-susceptible, we assume this would be due to food not being equally distributed and available across the globe. That assumption is not wrong, but what you probably didn't know is that children are very often malnourished, not because they are living in poverty, but because the food that we eat shockingly does not necessarily contribute in a substantial way to our nutritional needs. Linda and Gilda Galvad report.
I
t is estimated that around 50 000 species of
The corporate propaganda machine, however,
plants are edible, but modern agriculture is
works very hard to negate what has proven to be
currently only using about 50 – this is about
exactly what Dr Clements feared. In 1992 an FDA
0.5% of available plant species. Dr Joel Fuhrman
law paper stated the GMO foods were safe. Let's
has done a huge amount of research into the
remember that the FDA's Michael Taylor also said
value of the food we eat and has found that
that DDT and agent orange were also safe. We
people are consuming too many macro-nutrients
need to ask why, when Arpad Pusztai, a reputable
and not enough micro-nutrients which results
and highly regarded scientist, reported that GM
in us developing food addictions, as our bodies
(genetically modified) foods caused serious health
are not really being fed, so to speak. Calories,
problems in rats, he was muzzled and fired. It
which we obtain from macro-nutrients, without
has now come to light that because of genetic
micro-nutrients create toxins. We all eat loads of
modification, entire gene sequences are now so
macro-nutrients and then need medication to fight
foreign to our bodies, that our bodies cannot
the toxins. The latter may make us feel better, but
recognise them. Our immune systems attack these
because we continue eating the same things, we
foreign substances, causing inflammation and
are not getting better. Micro– and macro-nutrients
disease, it has been reported.
are chemical substances which all living organisms
In March 2001, the New York Times quoted the
require for their survival. Macro-nutrients are
Centre for Disease Control as saying that food is
acquired from fat, carbohydrates and protein, which
responsible for twice the number of illnesses in the
provide the fuel for our bodies. Micro-nutrients
US compared to the seven preceding years. At least
include the vitamins and minerals that our
80% of food-related illnesses are caused by viruses
bodies need. These are the electrolytes and aid
or pathogens that scientists cannot even identify.
physiological processes such as digestion, tissue
Obesity, diabetes, lymphatic cancers and more
building and the like.
diseases rocketed, roughly corresponding in time
To add to this troublesome state of affairs, in
to the start of consumption of GM foods. There are
the 1970s scientists found a way of inserting or
all kinds of recorded findings showing that rats
splicing different genes of different species into
fed GM food suffered damaged immune systems;
host chromosomes, with damage to the DNA of
organs related to the immune system also showed
that species being inevitable.
damage via the thymus and spleen. Others had
Dr Geoffrey Clements of The Natural Law
less-developed brains, livers and testicles. There
Party of the UK says, 'the genetic modification of
was partial atrophy of the liver. Moreover, there
food is intrinsically dangerous. It involves making
was significant structural change and proliferation
irreversible changes in a random manner to a
of cells in the stomach and intestines, showing an
complex level of life, about which little is known.
increased potential for cancer. Tests are done on
It is inevitable that this hit-and-miss approach
rats because the effects shown in 10 days relate to
will lead to disasters. It must disrupt the natural
the number of years in human life.
intelligence of the plant or animal to which it is
Geese that visited a field of soy bean after season
applied, and lead to health-damaging side-effects.'
were observed to then completely avoid the fields 131 S G
that had been newly-planted
co.za to read up on the near-endless possibilities to grow
with GM soy beans. And so the
your own exciting and varied food. All of the Franchi
list goes on.
Sementi seeds on offer are heirloom seeds – the varieties
It is time to do your own research if you are not yet
are simply amazing – and are produced by a family-owned company that is over 200 years old. Enough said?
convinced. There are many
Growing your own food can be done anywhere: in your
advocates warning us of the
garden, in a specific area or better still among your flowers,
danger. Seeds of Deception
on your balcony in pots, in recycled containers anywhere
by Jefferey M Smith, Genetic
you can or even on the floor of any room where there is a
Roulette:
of
patch of sun. In other words, make a plan. Using heirloom
Stephens'
seeds that carry an unadulterated DNA of the plant which
(President of Nature's Path
has developed over many years, which will withstand
Foods
www.naturespath.
disease, adverse conditions and provide us with the
com) book Journey to the
nutrition they were designed to provide, is the only answer.
Luminous and Why Organic?
Ask yourself: 'Do I know everything I need to know to make
by Wanda Otto will all make
the right choices?' Otherwise, just follow millions of people
very interesting reading.
over thousands of years and stick to the
our
The
Lives,
Gamble
Arran
The light at the end of the tunnel So many of us are blessed to be in a position to grow our own food, yet we resist doing this for a number of reasons: 'I can't grow anything', 'it takes too long', 'it's too messy', 'I haven't got time', 'I live in an apartment high up in the sky', and so on. Well guys, if I haven't convinced you that your health and nutritional well-being is not in your hands unless you do something about it, then you need to do a lot more reading and enquiring into the subject. The
only
way
to
good
nutrition and good health is to eat the right food. We need not only vitamins (which we think we can provide by simply swallowing some pills) to live, we also need phytochemicals and
antioxidants
which
can only be found in fresh foods, in their natural state. Simple everyday things like cabbage, kale and broccoli are superfoods that will keep you well and your systems nourished and balanced. Check out www.soughtafterseedlings. S G 132
purity of using heirloom seeds.
SG
Don't know where to begin? Contact Linda on 082 365 0050 to enrole for her amazing Organic Vegetable Gardening course in your area, or click here to register online.
A d v er t o r i a l
Be a post-consumer, consumer The words 'recycled', 'recycle' and 'please recycle', are a part of our everyday language these days. However, people still remain unsure of what it actually means. By thinking a little about the products you choose, you can promote recycling and make a big difference to the environment.
P
How can you make a difference?
re-consumer waste is a material that was discarded before it was ready
• Buy products with high
for consumer use and involves
post-consumer recycled content
the reintroduction of manufacturing
• Buy products with
scrap (such as trimmings from plastic
production,
pre-consumer and
paper
post-consumer waste
production, and defective
recycled content (always
aluminum cans, etc) back into
the
process.
look at the level of
manufacturing
post-consumer content in
Pre-consumer
a product)
waste is commonly used in
• Look out for the
manufacturing industries,
difference between
and is often not considered
‘recycled’ and ‘please
recycling in the traditional
recycle’ signs
sense.
• Recycle me does not mean
Post-consumer waste, on
it was made from recycled
the other hand, is material
material.
discarded after someone uses it. In other words it has served
Tuffy black bags are made from
its intended purpose, passed through
100% recycled content, with the highest
the hands of a final consumer, and has
percentage of post-consumer waste possible,
been discarded for disposal or recovery. Quite commonly, it is simply the garbage that individuals routinely discard, either in the rubbish bin or a dump, or by littering. Post-consumer waste in this example would be the plastic bag that was bought, used to carry shopping and then discarded.
which means the majority of the content is physically cleaned out of the environment and off landfill sites. Some 350 tons of waste are diverted from landfill sites every month by choosing Tuffy refuse bags.
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 133 S G
How to avoid mosquito bites
When the Dalai Lama was asked the single most important thing to teach children, his response was (reportedly) 'teach them to love the insects'. However, even he is reported to have OK'ed the squishing of mosquitos – but after giving them two chances first by swatting them away, of course. While admirable, this may not be practical or safe. The folks at www.greenlivingtips.com look into preventing mosquito bites, the earth-friendly way. S G 134
M
osquitos spread all sorts of diseases such as malaria which kill or sicken millions every year. Even non-life threatening diseases spread by
mosquitos can be debilitating for a lifetime. It's not just humans who are impacted. The mosquito-borne West Nile virus that has killed dozens of people in the USA in recent years has also killed hundreds of thousands of birds. Currently, the USA is experiencing its worst West Nile virus season to date. In Texas alone, where a state of emergency has been declared, 10 people have died and hundreds have been infected. Since West Nile virus was discovered in the USA in 1999, there have been 30 000 human cases with over a thousand fatalities.
The human helper Unwittingly, human activity has given the mosquito a helping hand, not just through the sheer numbers of two legged meals available, but also increasing the availability of the medium they need to breed – water. From large man-made expanses such as reservoirs to just a few teaspoons worth accumulated on plastic rubbish, these are all breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Photo www.myrmecos.net
mozzies & you
As with most pest problems we face, we tend to use nasty poisons. Back in the mid-20th century, DDT was hailed as a solution to mosquito control and declared 'safe'. I remember seeing archive footage of kids dancing around in clouds of the stuff. It was highly effective for a while, but then the mosquitoes started becoming immune. To make matters worse, it was discovered that DDT decimated bird and aquatic life and
while it was mostly banned in the USA by 1972; lingering effects are still being felt today – and it is still being detected in animals as far away as Antarctica, where it was never actually used.
'Safe' repellents? That brings us to modern artificial insecticides and repellents – those that are deemed 'safe' too. Are we possibly putting ourselves and the wider environment in danger by applying lashings of personal repellent and other insecticides? One
of
ingredients
the in
most
widely
repellents
is
used
DEET
–
N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide. With the use of DEET, like many things produced in our
laboratories, moderation is important and abstinence is even better if you can manage it. A survey by the Extension Toxicology Network at Cornell University in 1997 found:
'Everglades
employees
having
National
Park
extensive
DEET
exposure were more likely to have insomnia,
mood
disturbances
and
impaired cognitive function than were lesser exposed co-workers.' There's a variety of other possible side-effects as well and DEET has also been found to be slightly toxic to birds, fish and aquatic invertebrates. So it would seem that while artificial repellents play a very important role in protecting us (and given the situation in some areas, it's riskier not to use them), there need to be other measures in place to make these substances the last line of defence wherever possible – for the sake of our health and the environment.
More mosquito avoidance tips Cover up:
Wear long-sleeved clothing where possible. There is a great deal of conflicting information on clothing colour; even on reputable medical sites – some say mozzies are attracted to light clothes, others say the same for dark clothes.
Essential oils:
Some swear by essential oils such as lemongrass, lemon eucalyptus, peppermint and pure vanilla extract as repellents, others say they are entirely ineffective. As so many oils are recommended, are quite expensive to buy and can cause irritation if not mixed properly, before buying up a supply of essential oils to trial, give a commercial ready-to-go natural product a whirl – these will usually contain a mixture of oils. Try doing an online search on 'natural mosquito repellent', and read reviews from others on particular brands. Also, check the label of any such product carefully – 'natural' can be a rather rubbery term.
Fragrances: Mosquitoes are attracted by many fragrances, such as those found in shampoos and sunscreens, so try using fragrance-free products.
From dusk 'til dawn:
Most mosquitoes are active between dusk and dawn, so avoid being outside between those times and doing particularly heavy exercise during the darker hours as mosquitoes are attracted to body heat, the scent of sweat and sources of high levels of CO2.
Citronella candles: If you are outside, such as when entertaining guests, try lighting a few citronella candles upwind of where you are. Citronella is a natural repellent and is the active component of lemongrass.
Fly screens: A small hole is a gaping gateway for these unwelcome visitors.
Restful sleep: Even if they don’t bite you, there’s nothing more annoying than the sound of a mosquito buzzing while you’re trying to sleep. A mosquito net placed around and over your bed will help ensure a peaceful and bite-free sleep. Mosquito netting draped over a wide brimmed hat can also be an option for protecting your face when engaged in some outdoor activities.
135 S G
Listings The big one – standing water Probably one of the most important tips is to get rid of any
To advertise contact adverts@simplygreen.co.za Rate: R11.25 per word, minimum 20 words, includes image.
ECO-PRODUCTS
standing water you have around your yard – whether it's rain collected in old tyres, a discarded plastic container hiding under a shrub or water sitting in a drain or roof gutter; mosquitos are a 'just add water' type of critter. We had a pond and while we had turtles in it, I was hardly bothered by mozzies; but within a couple of weeks of removing the turtles I became mosquito dinner. While turtles aren't for everyone, there are some hardy
GreenGimmiX.co.za responsible design in mind Eco Lifestyle products for Eco Lifestyle products for home, office & leisure home, office & leisure www.greengimmix.co.za www.greengimmix.co.za
types of fish that can live in small ponds that are very effective in controlling mosquitoes. But ensure that, if the fish aren't indigenous, they aren't released or accidentally flushed into natural waterways.
online shopping
Another good way to discourage mosquitoes in ponds is to have the water moving through the use of a small fountain – mosquitos require still water for egg laying. But just because you address standing water in your own yard, it doesn't mean your neighbours will be quite
Naturalwise online shop and blog. Great products
as thorough. Mosquitoes can travel over 1km from where
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/
they emerged, so ínevitably you'll need some extra protection.
SG
SOLAR COOKING
Natural Mosquito Repellent Ingredients 30ml witch hazel 30ml grape seed oil 35 drops citronella essential oil 20 drops eucalyptus essential oil 15 drops lemon essential oil 15 drops lemongrass essential oil 15 drops cedar essential oil
Instructions Combine all ingredients in a small bowl or directly into a small spray bottle. Shake well before use. Reapply often, up to every 1-2 hours as needed. Watch the episode of Expresso where Nicole featured this recipe HERE Follow Nicole on Twitter
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Olympus Flower Cookers Ray Eshelby. The most environmentally-friendly energy source. Ray 072 235 1385 and email sales@olympusflower.com website www.olympusflower.com
kids' product The Tipi Tannie Children’s Tipis provide a cool-in-summer and warm–in-winter conical shelter to play in – easily erected and packed away – used indoors or in nature. Made from canvas and up-cycled materials – poles are locally sourced and made from invader trees. Our design philosophy incorporates creativity, fun, attention to detail, durability and respect for the environment. Suitable for children ages 3-12 years. Contact cell 081 408 3912 or visit www.thetipitannie.co.za
tel +27 (0) 28 341 0209 or +27 (0) 28 341 0168 | info@kiwinet.co.za | www.kiwinet.co.za 2 Queen Victoria Street, STANFORD, South Africa
We have TWO traditional, sleeve-suspended king size mosquito nets (each with a bamboo frame) valued at R2 150 to give away*. Send your full name and address details HERE by 25 May to stand a chance of winning. *Delivery in RSA only.
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P ublisher ' s C hoice
Shelf Earth: The Power of the Planet Iain Stewart & John Lynch BBC Books • 978 0 5635 3914 8 It’s not normal for us to choose what may easily pass as a coffee-table style book for this spot. But this is not your usual coffee-table book, despite the gorgeous imagery, excellent layout and the high-quality information, all of which you might expect from a better quality, eye-candy style book. The reason is that this is the print accompaniment to the BBC series of the same name. With Iain Stewart as one of the co-authors, you may be assured that this is no lightweight breeze through the Earth as we know it, but a synthesised and deeply intelligent perspective on how our planet works and why it is such a special place (just in case you didn’t already know that which, if true, is indeed alarming). There’s a lot that could be said but perhaps this is sufficient: firstly, buy this book and keep it around where everyone – especially the younger generations – can get their hands on it and absorb what it has to offer, both visually and in terms of information. Secondly, there’s little more to offer than the back jacket cover promo, which is a direct quote from the book and with which we couldn’t agree more: ‘The human race appears to be forcing changes that are straining the planet’s defences. This fragility seems curiously at odds with Earth’s long-standing resilience. Daily we are bombarded from all quarters about the need to “save the planet”, but in this book we pose an even more fundamental question: is it the planet that needs saving from us or the other way round?’ Enough said.
Eco-ThRIFty: Cheaper, Greener Choices for a Happier, Healthier Life Deborah Niemann New Society Publishers • 978 0 8657 1715 2
This is a book for this time. Endorsed by eco-activists like Hollywood star Ed Begley Jr, this one aims to help you do all the little things that together add up to a lot when it comes to living more sustainably. So the mantra of this one is that Grandma knew best: use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without – and re-use everything. There are many aspects to the broad reach of topics covered but general categories include personal care products, health & fitness, babies, clothing, food, home, gardening, entertainment, transportation and a great chapter on ‘free or practically free’. If you’re really into being more sustainable and earth-friendly, then this one is a must.
Family Planting Kimerer L LaMothe
O Books • 978 1 8469 4410 9
This is a memoir, not a handbook, though it can be used for the latter. LaMothe moved to a farm after years teaching and writing at Harvard University. In doing so, she faces not merely the challenges of an entirely new lifestyle, close to the earth instead of far removed from it in academic ‘ivory towers’, but deep challenges to her close personal relationships. In her struggle to figure out all the issues that this gives rise to, she comes to a radical conclusion: we humans are born to love and be loved, but don’t necessarily know how – and that her experience of reconnecting with the earth and learning to loved her new life led her to breakthroughs in her personal life. We really are one with the earth, our mother; realising that, and putting to use what we are taught through reconnecting with the Earth, makes us better, more adapted and happier people. Some folks have always known this; others may never learn it. The rest of us can take something useful from this little book. S G 138
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In The Pursuit of Solitude
Adam Cruise
Self-published • 978 1 4679 8471 3
This book is the story of a personal quest in search of the conflict between humanity and the earth on which we live and depend. Cruise describes himself as horse-like in being a ‘flight animal’ whose response to the banes of our social existence was to run away, leave the seething masses of humanity far behind and take solace in the open and untouched spaces which Africa still boasts. It is the tale of his journeys, having persuaded his wife Amanda to give up their urban lifestyle in Cape Town, cats and all, and go off on an extended six-month 4x4 sojourn through Southern Africa, with no particular plan in mind except to stay away from people as much as possible. This they manage, encountering a slice of African wildlife with all the usual (animal) suspects involved, but in the process also discovering a harmonious and balanced world beyond the one that humans have forged; one that is also under constant threat from the ravages of human advancement and mistreatment. If you love the soul of Africa, the wildlife and wild places of this ancient continent of ours, then you’ll love this book. A must-read. This book is not available in bookshops and must be individually ordered. Go to www.travel-hack.com, email adam@travel-hack.com or order through Kalahari, Loot or Amazon.
Global Sustainability: A Noble Cause Edited by Hans Joachim Schellnhuber et al Cambridge University Press • 978 0 5217 6934 1
We humans of the early part of the 21st century face many of the challenges of our forebears through the ages – and some new ones of our own making. These include food and water security, climate changeability and energy. Projecting forward just a couple of decades or so, the editors of this scholarly work see what is needed for some nine billion of us to live together, leading relatively decent lives that are sustainable over the long term. In an attempt to address the issues raised by this goal, the first Interdisciplinary Nobel Laureate Symposium on Global Sustainability was held in Potsdam. It brought together many of the world’s leading thinkers and experts on a wide range of related topics. This books is the result of the synthesis of their ideas and inputs and is extremely valuable as a thought and potential action resource around virtually every issue connected with sustainability. It is presented as a mix of thought-provoking essays and scientific texts designed to capture the attention and imagination of those already committed to sustainability or for those whose task it is to grapple at local, regional, state and global levels, with the issues that arise from the need for humans to live more sustainably on this planet. It has all the obvious stuff: latest research data and conclusions on climate change (it’s very real and happening way faster than anyone thought just a few years back); environmental economics (complex but doable); energy resource analysis (we need to do something different for our energy needs than we have to date, which has largely been to utilise carbon-based fossil fuels and nuclear – or pay an appalling price in short order); ecosystems science and a range of related topics. This is not light reading, but a serious endeavour to get to grips with some really crunchy issues. For the fully engaged, or for those whose careers and work depend on information in this zone, this is a required read. For the rest of us, we may want to dip into it here and there, but as an effort to get to the heart of the sustainability conundrum, it is more than a worthy effort.
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