Nektarina (S)pace June 2013 Issue by Nektarina Publishing

ISSN 1847-6694

NEKTARINA (S)PACE

June 2013

Food for Thought In this issue: Tara de Porte, Kevin Buckland, Rianna Gonzales, Anam Gill, Bettina Nada Fellov and many more

Nektarina (S)pace June Flavours NEKTARINA (S)PACE IS A WEBMAGAZINE PUBLISHED MONTHLY BY NEKTARINA NON PROFIT, A NON PROFIT, NON GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATION. WWW.NEKTARINANONPROFIT.COM ISSN 1847-6691 2

Nektarina (S)pace, Web Magazine Year 2, Issue # 10, June 2013 Published by Nektarina Non Profit ISSN 1847 - 6694 Under Creative Commons License

Working together towards a sustainable future. www.nektarinanonprofit.com Nektarina Non Profit is a non governmental, non profit organization, and most of our projects are based on volunteer work. Our articles are a compilation of data (where we always provide the source) or articles / opinion pieces (in which case there is a by-line). We come from different backgrounds, and English is not the first language for any of us, so there might be an occasional flop :). If you are using any of our content, it would be great if you could link it back to us, and if you are using other peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s content (that you found in this magazine) please make sure to copy the source links we provided. Thank you!

This issue has been done in A4 format, and it is printable. However, we urge to consider your environmental responsibility before printing. Choose reading it online, or download it for free to your device and read it offline.

Wrung up by: Publisher: Nektarina Non Profit Founder; Creative Director & Editor-In-Chief: Sandra Antonovic Editor-at-Large: Bettina Nada Fellov Contributors for June issue: Amanda Jane Saurin Kevin Buckland Tara DePorte Jean Paul Brice Affana Soronela Renita Elena Livia Minca Liberty Oseni Syd Baumel Anam Gill Zeljko Jelavic Camilla LĂŚrke LĂŚrkesen Anne Vaergman

A very special â&#x20AC;&#x153;thank youâ&#x20AC;? to : Rianna Gonzales Joaquim L. Pimpao Nihad Penava Syd Baumel and Llewelyn Jones for sharing their thoughts and photographs with us Cover page photograph: Grated carrots; Copyright Sandra Antonovic Photo credits: Page 3 Sandra Antonovic Pages 8/9 Zeljko Jelavic Pages 88/89 Denis Martini Pages 90/91 Sandra Antonovic Pages 252/253 James Strong Pages 302/303 Zeljko Jelavic Contributors: This could be you! If interested, email us to space@nektarinanonprofit.com Nektarina (S)pace is a volunteer project.

A letter from the editor: Throwing out the rundown By Sandra Antonovic When you are in the media and news delivering business, the rundown is pretty much your bible. It tells you what goes when, who does what, and how the whole thing is supposed to look like at the end of the day. It gives you the imaginary feeling of safety. Sometimes you end up throwing out the rundown it means that something has happened and that it’s worth changing everything last minute. You don’t feel safe any more, you feel exhilarated, you feel like you are about to do a parachute jump. Every now and then we throw out the rundown of our own lives too, I should know - I did it more than once. You jump, and then you figure out things as you go along. Sometimes it works out, sometimes it doesn’t, and one 10

of my favourite quote sums it up rather well: “...so, never refuse an invitation, never resist the unfamiliar, never fail to be polite, and never overstay your welcome...just keep your mind open, and suck in the experience...and, if it hurts, it was probably worth it.. “ Our May issue ended up having over 1,3 million views - the amount of love and gratitude it fills me up with is impossible to describe. THANK YOU. I threw out the rundown for this issue a week before it’s publishing date. I did what I usually do in life—listen to everyone, then do it my own way (and probably end up driving many people crazy). I can’t really explain why I decided to throw out the rundown - I just knew we need to do it. So many people wanted to contribute to this issue, and things were magically falling together, and I fell in love with every little bit of this issue, every line, every photograph. I am incredibly grateful to all contributors - most of us never met in real life, yet we managed to produce something really beautiful, inspiring and educational. We connected and we transformed that connection into this issue - like magic, only better :). I would also like to thank: Nick for being The Little Prince and The Alchemist, Alun and James for being true gentlemen, Grant for inspiring me when I lost my inspiration, Michel for reminding me of my duty, and Tasneem for reminding me that we should never judge people, but we should try to understand them. A very special “thank you” together with my deepest love and respect goes to Philip, who decided to call me Aleksandra, and I let him. Enjoy reading! 11

In this issue: A letter from the editor World Oceans Day The Woman of Substance: Rianna Gonzales These Melting Mountains, photo essay: Kevin Buckland Captivating Cameroon, photo essay: Jean Paul Brice Affana Ecovillages change life in rural communities World Environment Day Being Vegan: Syd Baumel Ethical Eating Education for Sustainability Project Moldova, Quo vadis?

Llewelyn Jones: Youth, music, environment Tara DePorte: I am an artist Bettina Nada Fellov: Why did I get that crazy idea of establishing a gallery Gallery Art Fellov June Programme Dragør - a pittoresque village with a strong local community Anne Vaergman: A childhood dream comes true. I am now an author Zeljko Jelavic: Inspiring River, photo exhibition Amanda Jane Saurin: Daphne odora aureomarginata – my favourite flower…ever Joaquim F. L. Pimpão: On Portugal, Budapest, music, art and the world of social networking Nihad Penava: Regarding Media Anam Gill vs Pakistani Elections Fighting cancer: Relay for Life Sommerluk campaign Bettina Nada Fellov: The sink if the bin for water

Embracing Oceans 14

The Woman Of Substance : Rianna Gonzales Interviewed by Sandra Antonovic Photos copyrights Rianna Gonzales 18

After Priti Rajagopalan and Jill MacIntyre Witt, who were featured in our April and May issue as the women of substance, this month we talked to Rianna Gonzales, a young Trinidadian greatly involved in promotion of youth participation in environmental issues as the Regional Coordinator of the Commonwealth Youth Environment Network and the National Coordinator of the Caribbean Youth Environment Network. *** Nektarina (S)pace: You studied environmental and natural resources management. How would you say we (as a society) are managing our natural resources and why do we manage them the way we do? Rianna Gonzales: Everyone seems to be aware that the environment and its natural resources are important, however in their bid to grow and become financially independent, countries, companies, and individuals alike blindly sacrifice and exploit every possible resource. The repercussions are known, however as a habitual being, humans across the globe continue to pillage the forested lands, mountains, sea and atmosphere to satisfy the wants of the many. Since the industrial era, the drive for development has resulted in the majority of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s forests to be destroyed. The idea of development and prosperity has always been towards large skyscrapers, industrial and manufacturing centres, paved areas and fast living. China for example, was listed as the highest carbon dioxide emitter in 2008, with an estimated annual emission of seven million tonnes. Haiti was once called the Jewel of the Antilles and was the richest colony in the entire world around 1750. Presently, Haiti is plagued with disastrous soil erosion annually during the rainy season. This is as a result of 200 years of exploiting the natural forest without replanting. The trees were used primarily for fuel, and earning a living. 20

The need to provide for a growing population is becoming increasingly stressful on our natural resources. There has to be a greater appreciation amongst the people and understanding that our natural resources are limited and that we need to sustainably manage them so that future generations can also benefit from them.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yes there are numerous laws, treaties, conventions, rules and standards but some of these lack the infrastructure to be implemented, others are just not properly structured or even known to the citizens of the country or seem to be biased.â&#x20AC;?

Nektarina (S)pace: You have a double minor - in Marine Ecology and Zoology. If you'd meet someone who has no idea what those two are, how would you explain it to him/her? Rianna Gonzales: Look on any map, over 70% of the Earth is covered by water. Marine Ecology is the scientific study of marine-life, the habitats and populations of plant and animal life as well as the interaction among organisms and the surrounding environments. This field not only looks at the relationship among the organisms in the sea but also the impact of human 21

activities such as land development, fisheries and agriculture on the marine habitat. It is amazing when you can link your random everyday activities to issues that affect creatures and ecosystems miles away from you. For instance, the plastic bag that is used to carry your groceries can actually, if not disposed of properly can be taken for a jellyfish the main food source for marine turtles and can lead to suffocation and death. As a diver and having experienced the life above and below the water there is a desire to explore and also a connection to the underwater world and its inhabitants.

“Imagine, we humans have explored more of the moon’s surface than the depths of the ocean.” Zoology, is the study of all animals, their structure, physiology and evolution. Personally, I’m not a dog person, or a cat person or a people person. I am an animal person. I love animals and I’m amazed by their behaviours and uniqueness. This area lets you get inside the body of animals and figure out how their systems work. How they eat, reproduce, breathe, move, everything. One of my favourite courses was Animal Behaviour; because it made me see how closely linked animal interactions are to modern human behaviour. The concepts and reasons of why we do certain things, our choices are deeply animalistic in nature. The way animals chose their mates, protect their young, find food, assert dominance is very similar to the actions we execute every day. 23

Zoology, for me, started as the love of animals and the curiosity of wanting to know everything but it also helped me to understand the behaviour of my fellow humans.

Studying the way animals work and function lured me

towards veterinarian studies at one stage in my life, but the diverse field of the environment and environmental management won over me. Nektarina (S)pace: You live in Trinidad and Tobago. What is specific, in terms of marine biodiversity, to TnT and Caribbean / West Indies in general? Rianna Gonzales: Trinidad and Tobago is home to a wide variety of coastal and marine ecosystems including, coral reefs, seagrass beds, sandy beaches, estuarine systems and open the sea. According to our most recent biodiversity assessment, we have over 950 species of marine fish and 41 species of corals (40 of which are found in the Buccoo Reef), 7 species of mangroves, 4 species of sea grasses and 198 species of marine algae.

The Buccoo Reef is the only marine protected area in Trinidad and Tobago and represents one of the largest and most popular coral reefs on the island. The Buccoo Reef Marine park consists of five fringing reefs (Buccoo Reef to the north), and a mangrove-fringed Bon Accord Lagoon (with a seagrass community). In 2006 the Marine Park was also designated a protected area under the internationally recognised RAMSAR Convention. Another unique feature in Tobago is that it is home to the largest Brain Coral in the world found at Speyside. The Leatherback Turtle, which is an endangered species, nests on the shores of Trinidad and Tobago. This is a matter of national pride to us since we have one of the largest nesting populations in the world. The turtles are protected locally under our laws and by a number of community groups which also collect data on these turtles.

Nektarina (S)pace: When we are talking about sustainable seas and oceans what would you say are priorities, what should be the primary focus? Rianna Gonzales: There are so many issues in our oceans and seas but I would say that pollution, loss of habitat and biodiversity, overfishing and unsustainable fishing methods as well as climate change are some of the major areas of concern. I would say that first priority for sustainable seas and oceans is cleaning them up! The Sea Education Association (SEA) found that the average concentration of plastics collected from the ocean was about 20,300 pieces per square kilometre. In addition SEA found that, the concentration of plastics is not increasing with time and suggested that the plastics may be breaking down into such small pieces; sinking or being eaten by organisms.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;If marine organisms are consuming plastics, then as their predators, we may also be poisoning ourselves.â&#x20AC;? In Trinidad and Tobago, the priority would also be to clean up the oceans and seas. However, this would also mean cleaning up our rivers since most of the marine-based issues are due to land-based pollution which are transported to the oceans and seas via the 69 river systems on this twin island state.

Nektarina (S)pace: You are now working for the Water Resources Agency. Could you talk a little bit more about your work? Rianna Gonzales: The Water Resources Agency as the name suggests we focus on water, mainly freshwater resources. The Agency is charged with the responsibility of monitoring, maintaining and conserving the freshwater resources of Trinidad and Tobago. Our island is blessed with an abundant supply of naturally occurring water; however the quality of the water may not always be perfect. There are many anthropogenic impacts that adversely affect our water courses. My responsibilities at the Agency, include watershed assessments, water quality monitoring, rainfall trend analysis, coordinating the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) Stakeholdersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Forum, public education and community development. From these areas I contribute to the effective and efficient water resources management process both from the bottom-up as well as from the top down. The field is very demanding but also very fulfilling. I love my job and I think, that is the most important. Nektarina (S)pace: You are currently completing your MSc in coastal engineering and management. Could you talk a little bit about why you chose that area, what inspired you and why. Rianna Gonzales: I have always had a curiosity and passion about the marine life and the ocean and the way in which humans have an impact upon it. After my first dive off the coast of Tobago and while conducting research and mapping coral reefs around the island, marine and coastal issues became to the forefront of my mind. We as a small island state depend upon our beaches and coral reefs for so much and yet very little was being done to protect it and learn more about it. I had just finished my Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and was deciding on a 29

Masters program and this was when I decided to continue in the coastal and marine area. Coastal engineering is a relatively new area especially in the Caribbean where there are very few persons with this specialization but even less with an environmental background since most coastal engineers come from a civil engineering field. When I chose this Masters program it was my aim to merge the two areas so as to ensure that there is a balance. I also wanted to expand my knowledge in the processes and dynamics of oceanography. I already had the basis on the ecology and biology but knew very little on the ocean itself. This program filled that gap and also gave me the insight on the engineering side of things. As a Small Island Developing State we only have so much land and most of our economies and inhabitants live within the coastal zone. Interestingly, by some definitions our entire island can be defined as a coastal zone and with the emerging issues of coastal erosion and sea level rise i hope to bridge environmental sciences and engineering to have a more integrated approach to the design and development of coastline protection as well as the management of the coastal zone. Nektarina (S)pace: You were involved in a coastal cleanup (Beautify Trinidad and Tobago projects). What was your experience? Rianna Gonzales: There are several coastal cleanups that I partake in throughout the year but the two main ones would be in March for the launch of the Leatherback turtle nesting season and in September for the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC). The support is overwhelming as people come out in the thousands to participate in these events to remove garbage 32

found on our beaches. One of the achievements is ensuring that the garbage collected is sorted and recycled. However, there has to be a connection with the activity itself and the change that you would like to achieve. We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to have to clean up the same beach every year; we would like to see a reduction in the garbage but

trying to change a peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture is difficult and that change wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t come unless the people themselves want to change. 33

Nektarina (S)pace: You are a member of UWI Biological Society. Could you talk about the Society's activities, and could you explain turtle protecting activities to our readers? Rianna Gonzales: As an undergraduate, I was part of the UWI Biological Society and one of the main activities conducted was Leatherback Turtle education and protection activities. There are five species of sea turtles found in the Caribbean, Leatherback Turtles (Dermochelys coriacea), Green Turtles (Chelonia mydas), Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata), Loggerhead (Caretta

caretta) and the Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea).

Trinidad and Tobago is home to the second highest population of nesting the endangered Leatherback turtles in the world. The nesting season starts from March 1st to August 31st during these months the nesting beaches are protected under law and persons are not allowed to walk the beaches without permits. There are four protected areas in Trinidad â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Matura, Grand Riviere Toco Region,Fishing Pond and Tobago. During the nesting season we would go out on nightly patrols (since this is when the turtles come on the beach to nest) and conduct tours to educate the public on the Leatherbacks and the threats they face. Some of the major threats include; being caught in the nets of fishermen, poachers and natural predators. On patrols we work with the wildlife section of the Ministry of Forestry to ensure that no one is on the beaches without permits as well as to protect against poachers. During the night we also tag turtles with flipper tags so they can be identified anywhere in the world. These activities are conducted from late nights to early mornings walking miles of beaches to ensure that they can lay their eggs in peace for proliferation of the species. One Leatherback Turtle can lay up to 80 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 100 eggs at one time but also comes to shore at least 7- 10 times during nesting season, that is over 1000 eggs from one mother. Unfortunately statistics shows that only about two hatchlings reach maturity due to natural predation, fishing nets and poachers. This is why there is a need to protect these prehistoric.

Nektarina (S)pace: Why are coral reefs important and what can we do to protect them? Rianna Gonzales: Coral reefs also known as the rainforests of the sea, they are not only beautiful but hold important roles in the environment. They are crucial to fisheries since they are a nursery ground for many species of fish such as snappers, groupers and other organisms. They provide a source of income to many families as tour guides and also contribute to tourism. They are the first line of coastal defence against storm surges and high intensity waves, dissipating the energy and reducing the damage that can be caused landward. An assessment completed in 2006 in gave an estimate of US$120 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 170 million as the economic value of coral reefs in Tobago derived from services provided. As much as they contribute these underwater forests are also very sensitive and only survive within a small range of specific conditions. These include light, temperature, clear and shallow waters. When these conditions are compromised the results can be deadly. Changes in these conditions can come both naturally (climate change and sea level rise) and by human activities. One of the most significant human induced issue is from land based sources of pollution, such as sewage, urban runoff and industrial effluent. These affect the temperature and clarity of the water and eventually reducing the amount of light available for the photosynthetic zooxanthellae found within the corals. Other issues are persons walking on the reef and boat anchors smashing down on them.

To protect the reefs work has to be done to reduce the amount of urban runoff and educate locals and tourists on their impact on the corals. 36

Nektarina (S)pace: How do you see sustainable development in Trinidad and Tobago? Rianna Gonzales: I am an optimistic person and I think that there have been valuable strides to a more sustainable approach to development. Trinidad and Tobago is a relatively young republic but we have come a long way, and there have been a thrust to a more holistic approach to the management of resources. We have a very strong environmental civil society that ensures that the government are kept on their toes but also creates a platform for the education of the public. As the Regional Chair of the Caribbean Youth Environment Network (CYEN) we also play our part in ensuring that the youth, who are the inheritors of the earth and the future decision makers, are knowledgeable on the issues and are given the opportunity to express their concerns.

Sustainability, it is not a one shot project or something that happens over night but a way of life that we must all adapt too.

Sustainable development means meeting the needs of today without compromising the needs of the next generation.

Rianna holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies and Natural Resource Management with Minors in Marine Biology and Zoology, from The University of West Indies, where she graduated at St Augustine Campus, with honours. Rianna is currently pursuing her Msc. In Coastal Engineering and Management. She worked as a Research Assistant at the Trinidad and Tobago Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Marine Resources and at University of West Indies. Since 2009 she works at the Water Resources Agency in Trinidad and Tobago.

To learn more about oceans, please visit http://ocean.goodplanet.org

Arctic Love

Kevin Buckland: These Melting Mountains A photo essay 46

By Kevin Buckland

These photographs were taken as I was part of the Cape Farewell Expedition, a project that brings artists and scientists to the frozen Arctic frontier to reflect on how to communicate the science and reality of climate change. The beauty I saw there is indescribable: icebergs drifting across a mirror sea like clouds, the glacier's edge is a cascade of blues, the singing streams laugh out from beneath the mountains of ice. I spent the first two weeks enamored with the scale of the Arctic's beauty.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Something occurred to me then: I am not here to send back photographs of the endangered beauty I have seen, but to tell you of the beauty I have not seen.â&#x20AC;? Then I took a walk. The clouds were hanging low like curtains when our boat arrived at a rocky shore. We stepped onto land and clambered slowly upwards, placing each step carefully on the slippery and broken stones. We arrived at a sharp ridge and peered down upon the cracked white glacier we had come to see. From that height we were staring back in time, looking at water that had been frozen thousands of years ago. I snapped a few photos in an attempt to record the majesty of ice. But when I brought my camera down, I looked at what was beyond the frame of my photographs. There were stones all around the snow, and a shallow lake at the base, and then more and more mountains of stones. It looked like a construction site, after the bulldozers have destroyed everything but before anything is built. The glacier didn't even reach the ocean anymore. Something occurred to me then: I am not here to send back photographs of the endangered beauty I have seen, but to tell you of the beauty I have not seen. The place where I was standing was where a glacier should have been. Only a few years ago this would have all been frozen. The beauty changed for me then, and the ice became a cold, hard truth. 61

The icebergs that drift in the waves are not sculptures but the very real face of sea-level rise. The singing streams are the glaciers melting. Quickly.

I have come to see the glaciers as windows in time. Their blue lines show us the story of water, gathered over thousands of years. Looking at them we can see the past, frozen before our eyes. These melting mountains can also show us a vision of the future - they show us how quickly things can change, and how quickly beauty can disappear. But this future is only one possible vision, one possible story. We are writing this story ourselves and it is time to begin a new chapter.

The Sami Community These photographs were taken on two journeys One journey on a boat with the CapeFarewell Project to Svalbard, an island in the arctic; the other by train to Northern Sweden, to spend time among the Sami community there.

The Sami are the native peoples of northern Scandinavia, and like many indigenous communities they have found themselves on the front line of the climate crisis. When we think about the losses imposed by â&#x20AC;&#x153;developmentâ&#x20AC;? and

climate change, we often think in terms of biodiversity and natural resources loss. But the staggering diversity we have as a species, exists in our incredible array of cultures. As recently as 300 years ago, almost every region had its own way of dress, its own language, its own customs and its own culture suited perfectly to their climate. When we talk about the losses of climate change- we also risk losing the stories, the songs, the designs, and the very languages of our own past.

The Sami reply, ‘Why did you put your roads where our reindeer walk? The reindeer were here first’”. The Sami risk losing the beautiful details of their culture: the colorful clothing that makes a room glow, the melodious songs that flow like water, and the endless carving of reindeer antlers. As the “progress” invades the territorial land of the Sami, their culture changes. Many can no longer follow traditional migrations, as dams have flooded the rivers their reindeer used to swim across. Highways and train-tracks dissect their territories like a calculating surgeon, drawing impassible lines. It is not practical to cross a 4 lane highway with 2,500 reindeer, as it only breeds anger among those who cannot get their cars through the living herd. One youth joked to me “They say ‘Why do your reindeer have to walk where our roads are?’ but the Sami reply, ‘Why did you put your roads where our reindeer walk? The reindeer were here first’”. 64

As the trees in that area are harvested, the moss goes too â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and the reindeer walk different paths. As mines come in the berries are dug up with the uranium, the roads pave over the mushrooms. Each culture is like a recipe, a mixture of pieces of past that combine into the most delicious and creative ways. As we start removing ingredients, we start to forget the recipes. Many of the details of a culture and the stories that sustain it, are in fact the stories of sustainability- tricks that help the potatoes to grow and unwritten laws that keep the fish populations safe. This knowledge that has grown with the land has in many places been forsaken by the bright lights of progress. Yet, it still is alive in places like the glowing snows of the Artic and in it is alive in the stories our elders tell us. As we look forward towards an endless future, we see so far that we are looking into our own past.

Kevin Buckland - (Kevin@350.org) is an artist, artivist organizer and the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Arts Ambassadorâ&#x20AC;? for the grassroots global network 350.org. He works with many different aspect of the global movement for climate justice, from inside the halls of the UNFCCC to mass mobilizations, to promote creative communication and beauty in the call for climate justice across the globe. Harkening to the call that resistance can be prefigurative, he aims to make this movement as beautiful as the world we are fighting to save. He employs comedy, tragedy, farce, satire, poetry and a great deal of cardboard in his attempts to end empire and globalize justice. Videos, writings, and participatory projects can be seen at www.ctrlartshift.org.

AFRICA Bold and Beautiful

Captivating Cameroon Photography by Jean Paul Brice Affana

Ecovillages change life in rural communities Compiled by Audu Liberty Oseni Photos by Jean Paul Brice Affana

Ecovillage system is an approach adopted for rural people to put together acceptable social setting with a minimal-impact lifestyle. To make this a reality, they put together different facets of ecological designs ranging from permaculture and ecological building, through green production and alternative energy, to community building practices, etc.

Interventions on this are seen across West African communities, Earth Rights Institute is developing ecovillage at Odi community at Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The fundamental aim of the project is to put in place a novel form of design, refurbishment and urban planning after the community has been ravaged by war. The project is tagged â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Green City Programâ&#x20AC;? for Odi. The project would in its first phase provide 5,000 households with inexpensive housing for more than a 5-year time. The project will bring together all stakeholders to take part in planning how this initiative can achieve equitable growth and bring healthy community.

In Senegal, Mbackombel linked with ecovillages breathe new life into rural communities. This initiative has brought about solar power and an irrigation scheme that are transforming rustic areas into a model. The Mbackombel project has brought new innovation to farming and herding practices, putting in place water and energy supply. Demba Mamadou Ba, Director of Senegalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s National Agency for Ecovillages, said ecovillage will transform villages into modern and this represents an investment of a million dollars. In a similar development, Alouise Thiaw said rural-urban migration has been reversed in Mbackombel as many youth are making income from ecovillage project. To him, he was apprenticed to a mason in Dakar, the launching of ecovillage project made him to return and he is making profit working in the ecovillage. He earns 55,000 CFA francs (106 dollars) monthly.

Ecovillage system is an approach adopted for rural people to put together acceptable social setting with a minimal-impact lifestyle.

The ecovillage project in Senegal was commenced in 2008 with a 4.5 million-dollar support from the Global Environment Facility and the United Nations Development Programme. The project was initiated and is being jointly implemented by the Africa Enterprise Development Agency. The ecovillage project is the best poverty reduction strategy and is a facilitating means of attaining the Millennium Development Goals. 84

This was affirmed when Bachir Camara, the president of the monitoring council for the national ecovillage agency, revealed that Senegal has arranged to put in place 14,000 ecovillages by the year 2020, within the framework of poverty reduction strategy. There is also the Senegal Ecovillage Microfinance Fund created to tackle poverty by making available affordable business loans to the poor. The fund is meant to support small scale business holders who do not have access to the commercial banking system. Specifically the fund is to aid the very poor villages that are part of Senegal's Global Ecovillage Network (GEN).

In Gambia, the ecovillage in Tumani Tenda Community has been transformed into a full blown tourism centre that brings visitors from all over the globe. Money gotten from tourist visits to the ecovillage goes to the Village Development Fund which is used for the provision of facilities and family needs in the village. At the moment, funds gotten from the eco-tourism camp have made it possible to pay the taxes for the entire village, support community project and provide health for the village by buying medicines for the village dwellers. In Liberia, a group known as the Groundwork is partnering with the government on its plan to build a new community that will provide about 500 86

families with housing which it tagged the Ultra-low-cost Ecovillage. Similarly, Reciproka, a regional organization based in Burkina Faso, is working with local community participants to put in place an ecovillage. Apparently, efforts for sustainable development should not rely on government alone; it can be achieved if communities are adequately engaged in designing and implementing their development model. There is urgent need to start rebuilding villages via ecovillage model which in the meantime can be transformed into inclusive city. At present many villages in West Africa lack basic necessities of live and as a result there is great rural-urban migration which heightens urbanisation and urban unemployment. This is likely to be the case for years to come as governments in West Africa are yet to prioritise development of villages. Obviously, ecovillage is one of options for poverty reduction as it will address

village

poverty;

enhance

economic

change,

environmental

sustainability, check massive rural-urban migration by providing jobs for youth in the villages. With impact of ecovillage across villages in West Africa, if the required funds and supports needed to develop numerous of their kinds are met, many villages in the region are likely to be transformed by the year 2020 and this should reduce the pressure on urban cities across the region.

To learn more about West Africa, please visit West Africa Insight.

In our July issue we bring you the interview with its founder, Audu Liberty Oseni.

Eating sense 90

A recent study has revealed that

The Think.Eat.Save campaign of

about one third of all food

the Save Food Initiative, is a

production world-wide gets lost or

partnership between UNEP, FAO

wasted in the food production and

and Messe DĂźsseldorf, and in

consumption systems, amounting to

support of the UN Secretary-

1.3 billion tonnes. In industrialized

Generalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Zero Hunger Challenge,

nations, retailers and

consumers

which seeks to add its authority and

discard around 300 million tonnes

voice to these efforts in order to

that is fit for consumption, around

galvanize

half of the total food squandered in

regional and national actions,

these regions. This is more than the

catalyze more sectors of society to be

total

aware and to act, including through

Sub-Saharan Africa and would be

exchange of inspiring ideas and

sufficient to feed the estimated 900

projects between those players

million people hungry in the world.

already involved and new ones that

net

food

production

widespread

global,

are likely to come on board. 92

Syd Baumel: Being Vegan Canadian writer, editor, composer, artist, animal rights activist and a long time vegan, Syd shares his views on ethical eating, animal food industry and PETA. Interviewed by Sandra Antonovic All photo copyrights Syd Baumel

Nektarina (S)pace: When and why did you become vegan? Syd Baumel: I began following a mostly vegetarian diet in 1980 when I was 27. Back then it was quite easy for a compassionate, politically progressive person to be blissfully ignorant of the animal abuse that makes the joys of pizza, hamburger and milkshakes possible. But I was a heavy reader and eventually that took me to vegetarianism. I liked what I read. As soon as I was convinced it was a safe and healthful choice, my conscience said “you're gonna have to eat this way, too.” I didn't become a by-the-book vegetarian. Perhaps self-servingly, I reasoned that the life of a very small, primitive animal might not be more “worthy” or even sentient than a whole flowering plant, so I allowed myself to enjoy some shrimp or scallops once a week or so. I also was – although I didn't know the 94

word then – a "freegan": if leftover animal food was destined for the garbage, I ate it. To throw it out, I felt (and still do), would merely add insult to injury. I also sought out free-range eggs, because I knew about the abusive battery cages where hens were stuffed like sardines all their laying lives. But when it came to milk and cheese, I was either ignorant or in denial about the suffering dairy cows commonly endure. Nor for a long time did I get the memo about veal, the decadent byproduct of modern milk production. Within days of birth (sometimes just hours), the cow's male calves are wrenched away from her either to be slaughtered immediately to make “bob veal” or after a few months tied up alone inside a wooden crate. How sweet. Neither did I have a clue that the hatcheries where hens come from (even free-range hens) regard male chicks as waste. One of several common cruel fates for these newborns is to be tossed down a chute, still alive and chirping, into the welcoming blades of a high-speed industrial grinder. Again, such sweetness and light. These fully legal standard operating practices were common knowledge among informed vegans, but I was not yet one of them. Worse, as I would learn years later while doing a feature article on Canada's egg industry, the very same horrible fate awaited many of the hens when they, having laid all the eggs they had in them, also became a waste disposal problem for Canada's good egg producers. By 2000, I had absorbed a lot of this information, but it took the sudden illness and death of a very, very dear pet cat to push me “over the edge” into veganism. Somehow, my love for this fluffy piece of my heart was generalized to all animals. My cat Erik had not, by his very nature, been capable of being anything other than a carnivore. I had more options. I embraced a fully vegan diet – with the exception of those freegan transgressions of the letter, but not the spirit, of veganism as I interpret it. I also began sparing the invertebrates. 95

Nektarina (S)pace: In 2003 you wrote an article about ethical eating (that was published in The Aquarian and we are now featuring in this issue) and a year later you created eatkind.net. Could you tell us a little bit about both the article and the website/blog, what prompted you to do them and what did you hope to achieve? Syd Baumel: Erik's death didn't just push me into veganism, it made me ask myself if it was enough just to follow a humane diet without actively urging others to do too. I decided it wasn't. Soon an offer to produce the Winnipeg Vegetarian Association newsletter came up, and I took it. That was my gateway drug to several years of intense activism and advocacy, including co-founding and co-directing a local animal advocacy group. 96

But, as I wrote in that Aquarian editorial, it didn't take long for me to realize that giving people an all-or-nothing moral ultimatum to "go veg!" makes it all too tempting for most people to say “no thanks” and carry on eating their – typically – ethically unexamined diet. So I decided to reframe the message from "go veg" to "eat ethically." Eating ethically includes veganism as an option, but a whole lot less and a whole lot more too. It invites people who eat meat to – as the Humane Society of the United States puts it - “reduce, refine and replace” the animal foods in their diets. But it also challenges vegans to care more about the sustainability and social responsibility of how their plant foods are produced. “Does your vegan chocolate include brutalized children in its supply chain?” For a while I thought about writing a book about ethical eating, but the announcement of a new book by vegan philosopher Peter Singer on what looked to be the same subject (The Way We Eat) and the subsequent publication of Michael Pollan's hugely successful The Omnivore's Dilemma led me to follow the path of least resistance and not attempt such an ambitious project. Instead, I created eatkind.net. Initially I planned to make it a source of information and commentary centred around a global directory of links to sellers of ethical food and related information and advocacy websites. Alas, traffic was weak and I've since neglected the site. But recently I've become quite active on my associated ethical eating blog http://eatkind.blogspot.ca/. My goal, whether through eatkind.net, my published writings and other media and advocacy is to help move the goal posts away from cruelty and closer to kindness, particularly to food animals, because they suffer so much and in such overwhelming numbers. Sixty billion farmed animals are bred and slaughtered every year.

Nektarina (S)pace: Could you explain to our readers the correlation between climate change and our food / dietary choices? Syd Baumel: It's a tremendously consequential correlation. Several years ago, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization estimated that the livestock industry is responsible for 18% of the world's human-caused greenhouse gas emissions [http://www.fao.org/ag/magazine/0612sp1.htm]. Separately, scientists from the University of Chicago calculated that switching from the typical American diet to a vegan diet would reduce a person's emissions by one and a half tonnes a year. Another study from Carnegie Mellon University estimated that replacing beef and dairy with vegan alternatives for just one day a week reduces emissions more than eating locally sourced food all week [http:// www.newscientist.com/article/dn13741-food-miles-dont-feed-climate-change-meat-does.html].

Thanks to these and other studies, there's a growing

realization among climate experts that meat-eating is to diet what SUVs and jetliners are to transportation. Quite literally, because about 4 to 15 times as much oil and natural gas are used to produce a pound of animal protein vs a pound of plant protein. That's not all. Some animals – notably ruminants, like cattle and sheep – convert a great deal of the carbon in their forage and feed into methane, which is a much more potent greenhouse gas. Finally, manure gives off nitrous oxide gas, an even more potent GHG. As a result of this hard knowledge, more and more experts, from the authors of top-drawer scientific papers to leading climate science personalities – people like the famous climatologist, James Hansen; Rajendra Pachauri, head of the IPCC; and the influential climate change economist Lord Nicholas Stern – are advocating that people who care about climate change should slash their animal food consumption (if it's high), even "go veg," as Stern has. Pachauri, an observant Hindu, always has been. 99

Still, it should be said that from an ethical eating perspective, it's wrong to focus entirely on animal foods. Traditionally produced rice, for example, is also a significant contributor because the paddies give off lots of methane. Eating locally can make a difference, as can some sustainable agriculture practices, whether you're growing turkeys or tofu. I'm excited to see initiatives, as in Sweden, to label every food with its carbon footprint so consumers can make enlightened choices . We need much more of that.

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Nektarina (S)pace: Could you share with us how you see PETA's activities? What would you like them focus on more (or less)? Syd Baumel: I believe PETA has changed the world. And in more ways than most people realize. There's a tendency to see PETA as a narrow veganadvocacy organization, with some saucy anti-fur campaigning on the side. But among PETA's many achievements, it practically invented hard-hitting, pedal-to-the-metal farm animal welfare activism. We are inheriting a world in which the worst practices of factory farming are falling away under the harsh light of PETA-led or inspired scrutiny. Factory farming is becoming a pariah industry. My impression is that PETA has done more than any other organization to

initiate this jihad for farm animal welfare and – at least

until recently, as other great groups have, arguably, overtaken it – to wage that holy war. Every time someone goes vegan or eats less meat thanks to the work of PETA and thousands of organizations large and small that have followed in its wake, farmed animals are spared lives not worth living and gruesome, sometimes horrifying deaths. But, perhaps even more importantly, billions of animals who continue to be farmed are living less cruel and degrading lives and dying less horrifying deaths thanks to PETA et al. So all I can say to PETA is "sure, you've done some loopy things on occasion, but, overall, keep up the great work." Nektarina (S)pace: How difficult / easy is it to find vegan-friendly restaurants, hotels, clothes, shoes etc stores? Why would you say that is? Syd Baumel: Even in a mid-sized North American city like Winnipeg, one's options eating out vegan-style are pretty constrained. For clothes – as a man – 101

the biggest challenges are decent shoes and belts. Being a vegan consumer in a city like Winnipeg is very doable – with help from mail-order shopping – but it could be a lot better. On the other hand, we swim in a culture of omnivorism. Inducements to eat meat are everywhere. There's never a hint of the animal abuse that makes most of it possible. Kind people who adopt cats from shelters go home to enjoy a pork roast from a month's-old pig and ice cream from a worn out, osteoporotic cow that had to limp into the truck to the slaughterhouse and be dragged and prodded off of it – but none of this crosses their minds. The disconnect – the denial – is awesome. It's the opposite of ethical eating. As a civilization, our moral compass is only beginning to point to these moral contradictions. Most of us still cling to blindness and ignorance. But I am hopeful we will let go of those illusions, perhaps sooner than one might think. Social revolutions are gradual at first. But eventually a sea change comes, and usually it comes quite suddenly.

Nektarina (S)pace: What do you eat? For example what did you eat yesterday? Syd Baumel: I love my vegan diet. And I'm someone who would gladly stuff his face with meat, milk, eggs, cheese etc. if they grew on trees. Part of the reason I love my vegan diet is because it's becoming easier and easier to satisfy those acquired animal flavour cravings with vegan imitations. The other part is that once you've removed the real animal stuff from your menu, suddenly all the other foods stop being so ... "second fiddle." Here in North America, for most people meals still centre around animal protein, and my theory is that the intensely gratifying aromas and flavours of animal foods make them the crack cocaine of the kitchen in the same way that sweet and 102

fatty pastries and snack foods reliably tempt taste buds away from sweet and healthy fruits, nuts and seeds. But if you banish the animal cocaine from your diet, you begin to appreciate protein-rich plant foods with clean, rehabilitated taste buds. Not only do the plant-based staples - legumes, grains, even root vegetables, not to mention nuts and seeds - taste much better now, you find yourself in hot pursuit of more of them. A broad, diverse cuisine opens up to you - as deliciously demonstrated by Nektarina's own culinary publications that also supercharges your diet with essential nutrients and healthpromoting phytochemicals. Basically, I eat a lot of beans and grains as my primary protein sources as well as a serving or two most days of faux animal foods, some nuts and seeds, a broad "spectrum" (literally) of vegetables, some fruit and usually some sweets like ethically sourced chocolate, vegan ice cream or pie. Last night I made myself a really satisfying pizza, something I never could do until a Canadian company called Daiya recently came up with vegan cheese wedges that -

finally - taste like the real thing (and melt like it). If I may digress, Daiya's wedges represent an ethical quandary for ethical eaters. A main ingredient is palm oil. Normally, palm oil is a no-no because the industry is destroying precious rainforest and habitat for Indonesia's endangered orangutans. Daiya, however, claims to source its palm oil from sources in Brazil who grow their palm without destroying new rainforest. For now, I'm erring on the side of trusting Daiya and pleasing my taste buds.

Nektarina (S)pace: Any recipes you'd like to share? Syd Baumel: As you know, I'm just not a recipe guy. It's constraining, and I naturally cook the way I paint and make music â&#x20AC;&#x201C; by improvising and 103

imagining. This is easy to get away with because usually I'm the only one who has to eat what I cook, although my cat Jasmine thinks everything on my plate was meant for her. Nektarina (S)pace: You are an editor, writer, composer...Do you have any plans on writing a book about veganism? Syd Baumel: I bet if I searched for "vegan" on Amazon, I would find at least 100 books. Although I've only read a few of them, they've all been very good to excellent. So no books on veganism are needed from this guy. There's a remote chance I might follow up on an idea I've had for a while to write a book tentatively titled "The End of Meat (As We Know It)." But, like ethical eating, that would go well beyond the confines of veganism. And I might write it as a blog instead of a book. Nektarina (S)pace: How would you encourage other people to become vegan? Syd Baumel: That's a tough question. One on one, I basically try and encourage people to eat more ethically, to take whatever the next conceivable step seems to be for them. For some people that is becoming vegan. I always urge them to get high quality information about how to do it right (I recommend the website veganoutreach.org). Myself, I would probably be unable to follow a vegan diet if I didn't take a carnitine supplement. All vegans need to take B12 or get plenty from fortified food. Details like that are important, but mostly they're just â&#x20AC;&#x153;set and forget.â&#x20AC;?

In my writings, I

necessarilly pitch my messages to a more diverse audience. For readers of this publication, for instance, I would simply encourage them to be more conscientious about the food they eat, to read and study food politics, to endure those horrible (but real) videos from PETA and hundreds of other brave undercover investigators â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and let their conscience do its work. 104

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Ethical Eating It's time to extend our sphere of moral concern to include the lives that sustain us By Syd Baumel

A little over a year ago, two years into my transition from mild-mannered vegetarian to in-your-face vegan, I came to the conclusion that most people don't want to buy what I have to sell. I was failing in my would-be mission as an advocate for the nearly 50 billion farm animals slaughtered every year around the world. The goal posts of vegetarianism, much less veganism, were set far too high for most people â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and some questioned the goal itself. Might there be a better way, I wondered, for my ethical vegetarian colleagues and I to reach the resistant masses? It has always been anguishingly obvious to people like us that most nonvegetarians do love animals; yet . . . they still eat them. I found myself meditating on this challenge at the lake that summer, and quickly a vision of another strategy took shape. 106

Compromise. Tell people any change is better than no change at all. Get people and organizations of influence – movie stars, political and spiritual leaders, scientists, intellectuals – to speak up with one voice for ethical eating. Reframe the message from all-or-nothing veganism to anything-is-better-thannothingism and the-more-the-betterism. As I was later to write in a letter to The New York Times Magazine, the opposite kind of all-or-nothing reasoning by the magazine's food columnist – that "if you cannot be merciful to all edible animals, you needn't be merciful to any" – "is a recipe for moral indifference. Every act of mercy is a sufficient act of kindness unto itself." In other words, I wanted myself, my activist colleagues, and others not yet even involved in this inclusive mass movement to send people an alternative message about food: you don't have to be ethical all the time (or according to other people's standards) to be ethical. You don't have to be the Dalai Lama to be a good guy – indeed, even the Dalai Lama eats meat every other day.* You're probably not a vegetarian either. Only about 4% of Canadians are. But I bet you're concerned about issues related to your dietary choices – issues like protecting the environment, supporting farmers and other people in the food production chain, being kind to animals, and eliminating world hunger. Perhaps you're buying organic food more often because it's better for the environment, for farmers and public health, and typically for animals too. Perhaps you're eating more humane-certified, free range, or grazed/pastured animal products because you believe any animal that puts food on your table ought to be treated with at least a little compassion. 107

Perhaps you oppose genetically modified crops because you believe they pose a threat to biodiversity – and therefore to the world's food security – or because you worry that GMOs threaten public health. Perhaps you drink fair trade coffee or tea or eat fair trade chocolate so as not to support the exploitation of impoverished farmers in the developing world – even child slaves, in the case of chocolate. Perhaps you give generously to aid agencies or donate to food banks so that others can eat too.

If you do any of these things, you're part of a burgeoning, spontaneous, and so far nameless movement (I would call it the ethical eating movement, a subset of ethical consumerism) of people who strive to eat not just what's good for number one, but what's good for everyone. You are extending your sphere of moral interest to include the very food chain that sustains you. You are co-authoring a new chapter in the moral awakening of humanity. Ethical eating, like ethical living, is not about absolutes. It's about doing the best you're willing and able to do – and nurturing a will to keep doing better.

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Inspiring and yummy recipes from Mediterranean countries for vegetarians and vegans! Browse online or download the cookbook for free http://www.issuu.com/nektarinapublishing/docs/ low_carbon_and_delicious

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Education for Sustainability Education for Sustainability is an international project created and launched by Nektarina Non Profit in 2011. To learn more about the project please visit www.education4sustainability.org This interview was done in May, for the Moldovan environmental magazine â&#x20AC;&#x153;Naturaâ&#x20AC;? with the Project Leader Sandra Antonovic.

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Soronela Renitsa: How

was the idea of

the project

”Education for

Sustainability” born? Sandra Antonovic: In September 2011 we participated in an international conference that touched quite a few subjects related to sustainability and sustainable future. As we were sitting there, listening to amazingly inspiring, but also very rational lectures and discussions, our main thought was: „Why isn’t this taught in schools? Wouldn’t it be easier to tackle all environmental, social and economic sustainability issues if we were aware of them early on, if we studied (early on) challenges, practices, positive examples but also mistakes? Within weeks we attended the Schumacher Centenary Festival and we spent a few days in Stockholm on a Professional Study Visit organized by the City of Stockholm, where we learned more about their efforts to become more sustainable. What we found really interesting and useful was that the city of Stockholm actually likes to present their mistakes – not to brag about them, but to help understand what went wrong, why, how it was remedied, and what were the lessons learned. This approach was so very much different from what one usually sees – presented good outcomes, with little or no in-depth analysis of mistakes and challenges, and we found it to be very constructive and pragramtic. „Every problem contains its own solution.” was something we heard many times during those weeks, and we wanted to help in creating a solution. We turned back to basics- Nektarina’s basics too – educate, connect, inspire – if we can help educate young people on sustainability, if we can facilitate a platform or a way for them to connect, exchange experiences, thoughts, learnings, ideas and practices, we could create a base that would 113

inspire others to think in a more sustainable way when it comes to ...well, to everything, really. Soronela Renitsa: How did you get involved in the project, what are your responsibilities as project leader and why ”Education for Sustainability”? Sandra Antonovic: The birth of the project was a team effort, really, and when I say „a team effort” I don’t mean just the Nektarina team (we never had more than a few people on board anyway), I mean a whole lot of other people, all of whom, knowingly or unknowingly, helped crystalize and develop this idea. The thing with ideas is that they usually need a katalyst, sometimes more than 114

We, as individuals (and consequently as a society) need to become bold enough to think new thoughts, in a new way. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a process, and this project is a part of that process. one. If you keep them to yourself, eventually you will suffocate them. If you let them out in the public, discuss them, ponder about them, you will virtually see them breathe, evolve, grow, disolve, re-emerge, change, develop. Ideas, and consequently projects, nowadays are extremely organic, they are like a living organism â&#x20AC;&#x201C; while their essence remains the same, they change many forms as they try to fit into local circumstances, mindsets, opportunities and difficulties. A project leader working on an international project needs to understand that the project cannot be implemented in the same way in Poland and in Pakistan â&#x20AC;&#x201C; numerous external factors, from political, economic, ethnic to religious, cultural and historical tend to impact the course of the project implementation, and one of the things a project leader does is assesing all these outside factors, in order to create a localized approach and in project implementation. Furthermore, a project leader follows current events on educational policies, developments from decision making organizations like European Commision, United Nations and similar, in order to help evaluate and determine the next steps, possible ways forward, advocating positions, coherent argumentation etc. 115

Why „Education for Sustainability”? I suppose the simplest explaination would be that we will never reach a needed level of sustainabble living unless we educate ourselves – it doesn’t necessarily need to be a formal education, but it needs to be a deeply comprehensive one, a truly pragmatic one and a highly applicable one. We need to understand the cause and effect, we also need to understand the need to act, not just dwell on theory. We also need to blend a global with a local – sustainability in Bangladesh is very much different from sustainability in Canada, but Canada’s actions impact very much even countries as (geographically) remote as Bangladesh. A sense of global inter-dependancy is present, but it needs to become main stream. One way to do it is to change the way we educate children, youth, people.

A sense of global inter-dependancy is present, but it needs to become main stream. Einstein once said that you cannot solve a problem by applying the same logic that was used when the problem was created. We cannot solve our environmental, social and economic problems (as a society) by teaching our descendants in the same way we were taught. The way we learn needs to change, fundamentally. The internet, social media, blogs, independent media etc are helping that change, but we need to bring it to the higher level. We need to change, evey one of us, in order to create a global (positive) change. We, as individuals (and consequently as a society) need to become bold 116

enough to think new thoughts, in a new way. It’s a process, and this project is a part of that process.

When you know that you changed something, but you were also changed, moved in a different direction, your way of thinking got challenged, or just widened - that’s when you know that, however difficult your days may get, you will try again tomorrow. Soronela Renitsa: What do you enjoy most in your job, and what do you find to be the most difficult part of it? Sandra Antonovic: I’d say fundraising is the most stressful and the most challenging part. Talking to people, listening to their views, experiences, ideas – that’s , by far, the best part of my job. When you feel your thoughts merge with the thoughts from someone from Pakistan, or India, or Moldova, or Dominican Republic, when you know that at the end of each working day you changed something, you moved something forward, but you were also changed, moved in a different direction, your way of thinking got challenged, or just widened - that’s when you know that, however difficult your days may get, you will try again tomorrow, and you will keep moving forward. 117

Soronela Renitsa: From the feedback you have had, how are the ”decision makers” from various countries reacting to this initiative? Sandra Antonovic: The „decision makers” are, more often than not, politicians. When we get lucky enough to enter into a dialogue with a politician, who is, at the same time, an expert in something else (other than pure politics), be it education, or economy, or sustainability, or environmental or social sciences, we tend to get a more promissing response. In order for this project to move forward, we need to engage (and maintain) a dialogue with the governing bodies. At the same time, because we are a non profit, non governmental organization, we have an obligation to the society we are serving to question things, to challenge, to demand, to argue, to advocate. Balancing the two is never easy, but, as my former boss used to say: „Every challenge is a window of opportunity.”

Soronela Renitsa: How do you persuade people to think and act globally, not simply locally? How do you make them understand the necessity of ”Education for Sustainability” in this process? Sandra Antonovic: Unfortunately, the nature is doing it for us – severe environmental issues we have been facing and will continue to face are showing us the interdependency I talked about earlier. It is becoming more and more evident that extracting tar sands impacts not only Canada, but the world as a whole (through higher carbon emissions). Huge oil spills do not impact only places where they occur, they become international, global ecological disasters. 118

Soronela Renitsa: From your point of view, how does a developing country with rather unsustainable practices become sustainable? What are the stages it has to go through, and approximately how much time do you think it can take? Sandra Antonovic: I read recently that the US changed most of its economy from a „regular economy” to a „war economy” in a matter of months at the beginning of the second world war. Hence, a huge change, a serious shift, can be achieved, if you have a governmetal consensus. Sadly, governments tend to adapt to change quicker when it suits them, or when the circumstances are extremely severe (as was WW II), but the main point here is that societies are capable of changing. 119

Once we are „grown-up” as a society, as a mind set, we will make more sustainable choices, starting with choosing the governments focused on the sustainable future. When it comes to sustainability, we still need a government consensus. We can all recycle, and change light bulbs, and live low carbon lives, but if we cannot get our governments to change things on a national, regional and global level, not much will change. How do we do that? How do we get our governments to make more sustainable decisions and choices? I don’t think there is one formula that we could just copy/paste from country to country. I think we need to be more careful of who we elect to power. I think we, as citizens, as voters, need to look at the big picture, we need to think about what would be the impact of things occurring today on the lives of our children. Building pipelines may open a few hundred jobs, but at what (longterm) price? It is not easy for us, as citizens, to think in those (longterm) terms, as we are mainly struggling with economic issues most of the time, so we tend to focus on fast, short term solutions that will help our own individual situation, rather than choosing the solutions that may be harder short term, but would be more beneficial long term. My feeling is that once we are „grown-up” as a society, as a mind set, we will make more sustainable choices, starting with choosing the governments focused on the sustainable future. 120

Soronela Renitsa: What would your message be for the ”decision makers” from Moldova (the Ministry and Departments of Education, Schools’ Councils and Boards...), as well as for all its citizens, the people who would potentially benefit from an education in a sustainable manner and its results? Sandra Antonovic: Think forward, think longterm. That would be my message. Kennedy said long time ago that we all cherish our children’s future, and it is true, we all do. Thinking in sustainable terms today means that we will manage to leave something for our children, not in material terms, but in terms of natural environment, biodiversity and a (potential) for reaching an economic and social stability.

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Moldova Quo vadis? 122

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Moldova – Quo Vadis? (On its path to sustainability through education)

By Sorenela Renita

Two years ago, whilst I was an exchange pupil in Great Britain, the Senior Master of “Sedbergh School” took interest in my country, and asked me to make a presentation on it. There are three significant moments that I recall from that experience. First of all, I discovered that the question “Where is Moldova?”, which I was frequently asked, became the title of a board game, due to England and Moldova’s match on September 1st 1996. This also represented what I believe to be a “catchy” introduction to my talk. Secondly, even though I was slightly nervous at the beginning, when the images of the slideshow came up, I caught myself wondering how it is possible for such places to remain unknown, and unappreciated, still. Therefore my motivation grew stronger. Then, an hour later, teachers approached me saying: “With its ups, and downs, Moldova seems wonderful…we want to visit it one day!” At the end of this article, I am hoping that you will come to the same conclusion as my professors did. Thus, by evaluating its ability to evolve, the 124

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necessity to contribute to this state’s education in a sustainable manner will be perceived better. In the process we shall mention later on Nektarina’s partner – the Ecological Movement of Moldova.

Grape-shaped on the map, in the South-Eastern part of Europe, with its mother country Romania in the West, surrounded by Ukrainian borders in the North, East and South, Moldova is a book waiting to be written, a book waiting to be read. Entering its picturesque lands, could be easily confused with a “journey” through Sisley, Pissarro or Monet’s paintings, although the roads that lead to its beauties can be rather damaged. However, once arrived at the destination, you will feel that the pain was worth the reward. An “encounter” with Chisinau, the capital, home to approximately 780,000 people, could serve as a starting point to one’s exploration, but it would be a pity not to go beyond its “walls”. Moldovan landscapes are far from being dull – there is colour (5513 species of plants) and dynamic (15000 species of animals) in our centuries-old woods, fields cut across by chains of hills with steep slopes, abrupt or smooth hillocks, valleys, miniature “canyons”, meandering rivers… Visiting Tapova, Socola, Japca, Saharna, Soroca, Tighina, The Old Orhei (Orheiul Vechi), Rudi-Arionesti, Napadova, Trifauti, Duruitoarea, Pererita, etc. you shall have a taste of all these various elements. 129

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But besides the locations mentioned above, our 5 scientific reserves need to be highlighted briefly. “Lower Prut” (“Prutul de Jos”) is a wetland where white and yellow (!) water lilies cover large surfaces of its multiple lakes (such as Beleu, which occupies 626 ha, 1/3 of the reserve), and pelicans, egrets, storks, herons, cormorants find a place to rest their wings. It is indeed a romantic scenery, especially if you have the possibility to admire a sunrise or sunset here. Furthermore, not far away, at Giurgiulesti, a portion of the Danube (600 m) traverses our territory, which makes us consider Beleu a small Delta. “Land of Beech” (“Plaiul Fagului”) is a forest of “elegant” beech trees over 150 years old, and 40 meters high. Not only will you hear the sound of Korsakov’s bumble bees in this area, but you will notice them seeking the rare lady’s slipper orchid. And in 5642 ha, there is a lot of searching to be done… “The Royal Forest” (“Padurea Domneasca”) is one of the most complex reserve, identified with 200-250-year old oaks, European bison, mute swans, wild boars, and of course “The Land of Herons” (“Tara Batlanilor”) with over a thousand grey herons. But “The Royal Forest” would also be incomplete without “The Big Rock” (“Stanca Mare”) - a natural monument saved from destruction by the Ecological Movement of Moldova, “The One Hundred Mounds” (“Suta de Movile”) - more than a hundred little mysteries, and “The Coral Limestone Reefs of Prut” (“Toltrele Prutului”) – 15-20 million years old, almost unique in the world.

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In the same region, of the Middle Prut Valley, few can imagine that below the ground they step on hides... the “Emil Racovita” Cave. This is a100 km “labyrinth” (out of which 86 km are mapped). This fact makes it the 3rd largest gypsum cave in Europe, and the 7th on the Planet. To a certain extent, it resembles Jules Verne’s fantastic descriptions, as if it was an underground Palace with chambers (the Waiting Room, the Penguin Room, The Cinderella Room) and…crystal-clear lakes (Blue Lake, Nautilus Lake, The Lake of “Natura” Magazine). Coming next is “Codru” with its monasteries (Capriana, Condrita, Hancu). Unlike the other reserves, this one is the closest to Chisinau – 30 km away from it. In the zone, noble deer and wild cats enjoy making their appearance, so keep your eyes wide open… Unfortunately, “Iagorlac’s” 836 ha of land and 270 ha of water are less accessible to us, being situated on the left bank of the Nistru River, “controlled” by Transnistria. All these places are included in the 4,65% State Protected Areas that we have (as against a minimum of 15% in other European states). These and many more are part of our breath-taking heritage. They make us understand what we have, and what we could lose. They remind us, that in order to preserve our valuable environment for generations, we need to adopt a sustainable attitude. Sustainability does not revolve only around our habits, and practices, but first of all around what generates them – our mentality, life philosophy, level of information etc.

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In the given context, the Ecological Movement of Moldova, a nongovernmental organisation founded on November 15th, 1990, through education, access to information, trainings, manages to raise public awareness and contribute to forming an opinion, an attitude concerning the environment, and the issues related to it. EMM is “committed to restoring the natural balance of the environment in Moldova through sustainable development, conservation of natural resources and preservation of important ecological sites and monuments”. For instance, the EMM is founder of the national magazine “Natura”, and through it as well as other media sources, the Ecological Movement has organised campaigns in favor of saving the national forests, the natural monument “The Big Rock”, the natural reserve “Saharna”, the “Emil Racovita” Cave, the “Danube Delta” ( about the Bystroye Canal problem) etc. and has succeeded. Moreover, its work has been acknowledged by the World Conservation Union (IUCN) and since 1995 it has become one of its members. Besides such campaign events, the NGO has also initiated and been responsible for expeditions on the Nistru, Prut Rivers, where the young had the chance to get closer to the environment, and apprehend the need for sustainability. The Ecological Movement of Moldova considers that the awareness raising and the education of youth to live in an equilibrium with the nature, to protect the wealth that we have is an imperative for our further existing as human beings! 138

List of photos used: Raut River Meanders «Emil Racovita» Cave. Gypsum Rocks Beleu Lake Socola «Emil Racovita» Cave. Natura Magazine's Lake Nistru River at Soroca Orhei National Park 8utesti Rocks. Celebration of Nature

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The Australian Sustainable Schools Initiative (AuSSI) Compiled by Livia Minca

The Australian Sustainable Schools Initiative (AuSSI) is a partnership of the Australian Government, all state and territory governments and the Catholic and Independent school sectors, that seeks to support schools and their communities to become sustainable. AuSSI provides practical support to schools and their communities to live and work more sustainably. It engages participants in a whole-of-school approach, to explore through real-life learning experiences, improvements in a school's management of resources and facilities including energy, waste, water, biodiversity, landscape design, products and materials. It also addresses associated social and financial issues and integrates these activities with teaching and learning across the curriculum. By participating in a learning by doing process, students achieve a better understanding of the world in which they live, and have opportunities to help create a more sustainable future. 142

The Initiative's vision is for all Australian schools and their communities to be sustainable. Because of the holistic nature of this vision, a wide range of individuals and groups can play a valuable role in AuSSI's success, including students, school leaders, principals, teachers, other school staff, parent groups, community members, businesses, local government and non-government organisations.

AuSSI helps to build sustainability knowledge, skills and motivation by supporting training of school staff, whole school planning, development of teaching materials and use of tools for measuring and reporting on sustainability outcomes. Furthermore, AuSSI does not replace other environmental or sustainability education activities in schools; rather it links to and complements existing programs already being implemented within schools.

Participating in AuSSI provides many benefits to schools, including: → the opportunity to fulfil curriculum requirements in key learning areas in new and engaging ways → reduced consumption of resources and improved management of school grounds and facilities → teachers and students working on real life problems with real outcomes → professional development opportunities for all school staff → the school becoming a model for sustainability within the local community → students being empowered to make positive change in their communities 143

â&#x2020;&#x2019; students improving their understanding of the complexity of the world in which they live by developing their knowledge, critical thinking skills, values and capacity to participate in decision making about environmental, social and economic development issues.

AuSSI provides practical support to schools and their communities to live and work more sustainably. AuSSI is coordinated by the Australian Government Department of the Environment, Water, Heritage and the Arts. It is being implemented in each state and territory using a variety of different models and is currently operating in almost 3000 schools, in all states and territories.

AuSSI involves an action learning cycle and a whole-school approach, both of which engage all members of the school community and ensure that sustainability is embedded in all aspects of the school's operations and management. An AuSSI school typically engaged in an action learning cycle involves: â&#x2020;&#x2019; making a whole school commitment to become more sustainable â&#x2020;&#x2019; auditing and collecting baseline data on its use of resources, its management of facilities and grounds and its approaches to teaching and learning 144

→ developing an action plan, including targets (often called a School Environmental Management Plan) → actively implementing, monitoring and evaluating its plan → critically reflecting on progress and revising plans for the future.

Effective education for sustainability is not just a curriculum issue. It requires the involvement of the whole school and pervades all aspects of the school operations, curriculum, teaching and learning, physical surroundings and relationships with the local community.

A whole school approach to education for sustainability emerges from the school vision and is articulated in all facets of school life in: → the way the school is organised and operates → building design (within the limitations of existing structures) → the development and management of school grounds → improved management of resources (water, energy, products and materials) → enhanced connections between the school, its community and other educational institutions → the conservation and protection of natural and heritage values in the school buildings and grounds → reorientation of the curriculum and teaching and learning methods towards sustainability. 145

AuSSI supports schools in their growth from awareness through to leadership in education for sustainability and sustainable living. It fosters school ownership and empowerment and focuses on student involvement, leadership and learning. The Australian Government provides support to AuSSI partners through national coordination facilitation and funding of networks. Support is provided to AuSSI schools by state and territory governments including: → best practice and quality curriculum support → the integration of sustainability activities and their outcomes into the curriculum → coordination and guidance in implementing AuSSI → audit tools to manage resources and track progress → ideas for projects and ways to involve the local community as well as encourage a shift in the broader community towards more sustainable practices and processes → networking and clustering opportunities for schools → professional development and mentoring opportunities for all school staff → strategies to develop an overall, long term plan for sustainability for the school →encouragement for effective community partnerships. AuSSI is a broad framework incorporating a wide range of activities which help schools and their communities to become more sustainable. Individual schools may choose to focus on certain areas that are of most relevance and 146

interest to their school community. Actions and projects in each of the areas below can be incorporated into a variety of curriculum areas including science, technology, geography, English, mathematics, history and the arts. Action areas which can be incorporated into AuSSI are: Energy, Waste, Water, Biodiversity, Climate change, Transport, Health and Wellbeing, Spirituality and Values, Indigenous knowledge, Teaching and Learning, Community, Sustainable purchasing. In 2010, the Australian Government evaluated the governance arrangements and the operational effectiveness of AuSSI. The Programme has made a significant impact on education for sustainability in schools over the six years it has been operating, with a modest investment from the Australian Government. AuSSI achievements include: → Almost 30% of Australian schools are now AuSSI schools, including public, catholic and independent schools (both primary and secondary). → AuSSI schools are achieving immediate and measurable improvements in their use of resources, grounds and facilities. Participating schools have reported reductions in waste collection of up to 80%, reductions in water consumption of up to 60%, and savings on energy consumption of 20% with commensurate reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. → Schools are achieving broad social, wellbeing and educational benefits from increased school pride and interest in learning. → Families of AuSSI school students across Australia have been influenced by their children's participation in AuSSI. 147

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Llewelyn Jones: Youth, Music, Environment Llewelyn Jones studied Architecture: Advanced Energy and Environmental Design. He lives and works in London, UK, where he is active in many projects involving youth, music, art and environment.

Nektarina (S)pace: Music is a very important part of your life. Could you talk a bit about how your life is intertwined with music, whether and how the music inspires you and what it means to you. Llewelyn Jones: Music has been a constant and consistent platform for me to express how I feel about the world we live in, it is also an escape from reality and a solace or remedy to the frustrations many people have about the planet. From personal experiences with people and place close to my heart to the realities of local and global struggles it gives me an outlet. Sometimes music and performance is a chance to describe dreams and aspirations, this is my 150

main focus right now as I am frustrated with the lack of energy and motivation in society towards thinking big and looking at solutions rather than problems. Living in the thick diversity of London is inspirational and has started a major shift in style and delivery: @lionmc 151

Music has been a constant and consistent platform for me to express how I feel about the world we live in, it is also an escape from reality and a solace or remedy to the frustrations many people have about the planet. Nektarina (S)pace: In Vocal Motion you brilliantly combined People, Music, Theatre and Environment. Could you explain to our readers what Vocal Motion is, how you came up with that idea and how does it look (and feel) to be involved in a project like that. Llewelyn Jones: After working for 8 years as a freelance youth worker, musician and builder I felt that I needed to join the different threads of my life together. After identifying a need for the provision and delivery of creative theatre, music and multimedia workshops in rural Wales I founded Vocal Motion in 2005. Since then the business has developed programmes of youth music and theatre workshops delivered across 20 countries. I love devising an exciting range of projects that act as empowering vehicles for expression and learning. During Summer 2012 I combined this workshops with promoting sustainable transport by travelling to workshop venues and transporting the studio equipment by bicycle across northern Europe. I have been lucky enough to work in places as diverse as a prison in Milan delivering beat boxing workshops, an identity and diversity project in South African countries and as a Commonwealth Youth Forum climate change facilitator in Trinidad and Tobago. 152

Nektarina (S)pace: You work with youth a lot. Many say that working with youth is both challenging and rewarding. What are your experiences? Llewelyn Jones: Young people bring fresh ideas, enthusiasm and can bring the change, so many of us believe is necessary. Working with adults is positive too but the impact of positive changes seem to run deeper with young people. They are often more willing to take a risk and throw themselves in at the deep end, pushing their creative and emotional boundaries. Many young people hold a massive amount of anger and frustration, this is often a result of their family and community life but in the UK is partly an anger with education and the systems adults impose on them. A big part of my work is to instill some trust in participants that adults make many of the mistakes that young people do and that life is about growing no matter what your age.

I love devising an exciting range of projects that act as empowering vehicles for expression and learning. Nektarina (S)pace: You studied architecture - advanced energy and environmental design. Are we, as a society, managing to make our urban areas more sustainable? What are we doing right and what are we doing wrong? Llewelyn Jones: We are certainly trying, there are fantastic low tech and high tech solutions to deal with waste and attempts to meet current energy demands, to name a few; urban farming, closed loop systems to com-modify waste products, solar desalination, well planned cycle infrastructure, green roofs, 153

sustainable urban drainage and the development of the ecosystems infrastructure concept http://ec.europa.eu/environment/nature/ecosystems/. So the concepts and plans are there but pace of change resulting from a lack of political will and short term economic planning make the changes that should have been happening yesterday painfully slow moving. Ultimately urban populations are exploding and we need fast strategic, global, integrated action. Whether it is high embodied energy, high tech solutions that Masdar is implementing or the practical low tech historical solutions like Tokyo when it was know as Edo or a comfortable half way house we all need to take action and responsibility for the change.

Ultimately urban populations are exploding and we need fast strategic, global, integrated action. Nektarina (S)pace: Many countries have "green schools", "solar schools", "sustainable schools" projects, that aim to involve schools, pupils/students and their parents and communities. Sometimes it is challenging to make old/ existing school buildings more "low carbon", more energy efficient. More often than not it seems that creativity and "thinking out of the box" are essential. What do you think? Llewelyn Jones: Creativity when it comes to retro fitting and improving existing educational buildings for me is the best place to start. Over the last year I have been working as a carpenter/builder with a company called Made From Scratch who engage with students (of all ages) to design and build fantastic play spaces in schools and adventure playgrounds. The sense of empowerment created by the young people from the participating in the design 154

process is huge. We build play spaces and adaptable indoor and outdoor spaces for participants to play and learn in creative ways. If we want to improve our educational buildings a sense of play and the connection to the natural world is vital to inspire children and young people to understand how the built environment works, especially with relevance to the impact of buildings on the environment and energy use. Writing my Msc thesis partly on Post Occupancy Evaluation of community buildings really intrigued me â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this is an effective building management tool to empower occupants to make major reductions in energy usage through creative logical steps but is sadly under used. POE can be adapted to be in tune with the way children and young people think to empower them to take responsibility so the buildings they use. There is a massive opportunity for children to learn all about sustainability and take control of the buildings they spend so much of their time in. Nektarina (S)pace: This months we are talking about cultural diversities. You lived in Ireland, Estonia, and UK. What is similar and what is different between these three countries, when it comes to cultural diversities? Llewelyn Jones: Experiencing living and working other countries than your place of birth should be a human right. The feeling of being the outsider and the insider within a new country or community was not something I chose as a child but is something that I love and want to experience more of as an adult. The consistent norms that I noticed were a warm and welcoming nature in people, strong and clear opinions about the strengths and weaknesses of their societies, a respect and openness to the arts and a big concern about the environment. The cultural differences between the countries I have lived in, and traveled to are small but I think the sense of freedom felt by people to be 155

open and confident in themselves varies. Ownership, identity and involvement citizens have within their culture also varies greatly. Some countries hold a greater sense of national identity and express this through their arts others seem more lost and un aware of their countries culture, consuming and remixing a multitude of cultural influences. There is no right or wrong here but cultural diversity only thrives when boarders: physical, economic and cultural are as open as possible. I am very frustrated with the UK governments position on reducing immigration and believe that we need more not less mobility in Europe and the rest of the world.

There is no right or wrong here but cultural diversity only thrives when boarders: physical, economic and cultural are as open as possible. Nektarina (S)pace: In 2011 you participated in London to Amsterdam cycle for cardboard citizens. Could you explain a little bit what that was about, and talk about your experience Llewelyn Jones: Simply; Forum Theatre/Theatre of the Oppressed is the most powerful medium I know of to empower individuals and communities to solve problems and find practical solutions to challenging issues. Through working with Theatre Fforwm Cymru I became aware of Cardboard Citizens work and being in London meant that I could support them directly, I did so by fundraising for every KM of the trip, calling on all of the generous and amazing people I know. 156

We all need to have the confidence to work together in logical integrated ways. Nektarina (S)pace: Where should be the next steps for us, as a society? Live a more holistic life? Embrace nature? Embrace culture? Slow down? What are your thoughts on this? Llewelyn Jones: My answer to this question are some more questions: Why do we not publicly discuss how we could achieve some level of practopia? Why are there no public clearly communicated political or academic conversations about how we as a species are going to adapt to the challenges facing the biosphere and the needs of our exploding population. Why do we not plan our population growth sustainably and why are we so afraid of asking people to reduce their consumption? My answer to the question is: a globally agreed 500 year plan to control population dynamics, allow nature to dictate the rules of consumption and resource management - as painful as this might be it could boil down to; defining conservatively the resources we have - food, energy and raw materials, then dividing the amounts by the number of people in the world. Create a logical plan to give every person the same. I know this is just a random dream but with the global challenges we are facing, like it or not this is the reality if we want to avoid the results of our species uncontrollable exploitation of the planet and each other. This shift is up to massive political will at a high level, incorporating enough confidence to stand up to big business. On a personal and community level we all need to have the confidence to work together in logical integrated ways, grow food, share resources, challenge wasteful behavior and attempt to change our local culture in positive ways. 157

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Tara DePorte: I am an ARTIST

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Tara founded the Human Impacts Institute in 2010, seeing a need for creative approaches to sustainability and global coalition building. The NYC Climate Coalition grew out of her experience of the climate and environment communities in NYC and their lack of comprehensive dialogue and collaboration. She has also been a global representative of Al Gore's The Climate Project since 2006, presenting to thousands of people about the impacts

and

solutions

climate

change.

Tara’s

international

accomplishments include the development and coordination of capacity building trainings for international women participating in United Nationssanctioned environmental conferences, representing women’s environmental leadership at the United Nations and working with lead officials on gender and environmental international policy development. As her environmental work reaches out to the surrounding world, Tara’s artistic work turns inwardly to direct expressions of self. Often interpreted as discomforting, yet intriguingly beautiful, her artistic works deal with womanhood, the many faces of the individual, and the complexities of social relationships. With formal training from the University of Virginia, NYC School of Visual Arts, SPÉOS Photographic Institute, and numerous Parisian artist studios, Tara has focused personal expression through the visual arts her entire life. She was chosen as a copyist at the Louvre, Paris, while studying techniques of European Masters. Furthermore, in 2007 she helped to form the Grand Street Artist’s Collective, a studio and exhibition space for herself and seven other emerging, international artists. Her work has been exhibited extensively in solo and groups shows, including galleries in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Virginia, Berlin, Vienna, Natal (Brazil) and Paris. 163

As an artist who pursues mixed-media work in painting, sculpture, photography, and installations, Tara pulls simultaneously from the narrative and the abstract. Her works include items like found objects, paints, plaster gauze, and human hair, creating a combination of vibrant colors, disjointed brushstrokes, strong lines drawing and collage. Tara’s works often fulfill a desire to “leap” off of the canvas, literally and figuratively. In the past few years, Tara has also been exploring performance, video and public art. To purchase artwork, inquire about commissions, or see more of Tara's work, please

visit:

TaraDePorte.com

contact

Tara

TaraDePorteArt@Gmail.com

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Artwork presented in this issue: Poisonous Mothering; 2012; 30 x 40 Acrylic on Paperboard Martyr Missile; 2012; 30 x 40 Acrylic on Paperboard Seeds of Change; 2012; 40 x 48 Shedding Dead Ends; 2012; 30 x 40 Hanging On; 2009 Limited Access to Information; 2011, 20 x 16 Stuck Without a Dialogue; 2011; 20 x 16 The Two Sides; 20 x 30 Collage Acrylic on Paperboard The Unknowns; 2013; 40 x 48 Acrylic on Paperboard Unzipping; 2012; 48 x 40 Seedlings; 2008 (shown below)

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Bettina Nada Fellov: Why did I get that crazy idea of establishing a gallery? Photo credits Bettina Fellov, Camilla Fellov, Annie Fellov, Miriam Thybo Moller, Lisbeth Jensen 180

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From idea to decision The idea about having a gallery came 7th of April and as I was working with my niece Camilla Fellov to open a new business. The idea was not very welcome and Camilla told me “No – we are going to focus on the other projects we are working on”. On 9th of April she called me and said: Let us talk about the gallery but only talk. I started to move out some of my furniture from my living room. On 15th of April we emptied my living room, my dining room and my small hall too. On 17th of April we decided to transform my home to Gallery ART Fellov and the hard work began seriously as we decided to open the gallery with a vernissage on 4th of May. We had three weeks to transform a house into a gallery and besides that to make events in the gallery, get artists to exhibit and plan a vernissage and opening reception of the Gallery. We decided that we could do it fast, if we really wanted to create a gallery, and so we did.

The opening and our first vernissage We succeeded to get three different artists with very short notice to cover our first exhibition in the gallery and we even managed to make a slim program for events in the gallery for May. We were amazed that 170-200 people showed up to our opening and the vernissage of our three artists. What a wonderful day! We had both lost several kilos the last weeks working to get the gallery ready for the opening and we were very tired but it did not matter, we were happy. We did succeed. We got a crazy idea a month ago and we worked hard for it and we managed to do it. 182

Why did we make a gallery? Can you image to make a place where your job is nourishing magic of people? Magic in the sense of people meeting, interacting, sharing knowledge and art â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a room which fundament should be built by the energy of people entering the room. If you can image that, you know why we made a gallery. You will know why we want to do courses and lessons here, exhibit art and have events for people. You will know that interaction between people, the willingness to learn from each other and to explore peoples habits, their reasons of doing what they do and the force of acceptance of different ways of life and ways of seeing life. This gallery wants to nourish curiosity, to be open minded and we do want to show that through an access to our artists, people attending courses and people attending og performing our event by welcoming them to our gallery whoever they are and whatever they do with the best we can give; equality! Welcome to Galleri ART Fellov. Follow Galleri ART Fellov on facebook : https://www.facebook.com/GalleriARTFellov Galleri ART Fellov is situated 9 kilometer from Copenhagen airport in a small village named Dragoer. You can read more about Dragoer in this magazine.

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Program in Gallery ART Fellov Exhibitions In May we started up with three artists and of cause Camilla owner of the gallery started exhibiting her art. She paints popart and started painting as she as student did not have money to buy birthday presents for her family and friends. She has made four portraits the last she finished in November and decided that she would continue painting as she got so good responses on her paintings. Exhibiting her paintings in gallery ART Fellov gave her a lot of new orders.

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Ulla Gerhardt one of the other artists decided to exhibit her art one month more in gallery as she says: “There is so much energy in the gallery that I would like to make new paintings and exhibit them in your gallery. Ulla´s paintings in June will be of women in warm yellow and redish colors. It seems that Ulla´s paintings are inspired by ceramics performed by the Danish designer Bjørn Wiinblad though her paintings are much more detailed and has its own composition and the colors are amazingly warm. 185

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Gallery ART Fellov has a kids corner. The intention with the kid corner is that kids can welcome in our gallery and need to have something to look at and play with while their parents or grandparents visit our gallery. Tine Milton Skotte was the first artist to exhibit in the kid corner. She makes small potato like figures which are meant for very small children as gifts for babies and small children. She works with vintage and decoupage too.

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June exhibitions

Suzana Profeta will be one of our exhibiting painters in June. She has been painting for many years and has studied Fine Arts at Art Acadamy “Licius de Artes e Oficios, Sao Paolo, Brazil 1986-1990 and at “Academia Brasileria de Artes” in 1991. Suzana Profeta has exhibited her art several places in Brazil and in Denmark amongst those are: “Um Grande Moviemento de Artes Plasticas II”, October 1990, Sao Paulo “Commemorativo Exhibition of Liceu de Artes e Oficios”, December 1990 Café Strandstræde, March-June 2004, Copenhagen, Denmark Café Diverso, December 2006, Copenhagen, Denmark

Suzana Profeta have had a break from painting for several years and has just started up painting again and her exhibition at Galleri ART Fellov is her come back as painter. Suzana Profeta works with elements of graphism and popart and is insipired by Sigmar Polke, Manabu Mabe og Tomie Ohtake.

Ulla Gerhardt seems to be happy exhibiting in Galleri ART Fellov as she has chosen to be here in June too. Galleri Art Fellov is happy having Ulla´s paintings as they are very warm and colorful. Working with Ulla is a bonus as she spreads energy and good karma.

Zophie Isabella Nielsen is a young and hopeful artist who will have her first exhibition at Galleri ART Fellov. Zophie´s artist name is Art of Zin. Zophie works with acrylic paintings and she experiments with popart. 192

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Events in Gallery ART Fellov in June Good Bye Anxiety of Exams 2nd of June Pernille Stockfleth and Bettina Fellov will do a course about how to skip anxiety before and during exams. Pernille has been teaching at Dragoer youth school for many year as well as she has worked setting up theater plays with young people and Bettina Fellov works as external censor at Metropolitan University College of Copenhagen and has besides that been training staff in face to face communication . The course will be about body language, respiration and how to enter a room. June 2nd.

Trim the sail and join the adventure Did you ever dream about making your dreams come through, well that is what Annie and Steen Larsen did, as they retired for work life they sail out to explore the world. Annie and Steen Larsen started their adventure in Turkey in 2001 and came back to Denmark in 2011. Annie Larsen has written a book about their adventure and both Annie and Steen is coming to Gallery Art Fellov to tell about their fantastic journey. The book has just been published and is one of four books. The book is written in Danish and is named â&#x20AC;&#x153;Piranhas and palm whistlingâ&#x20AC;?. June 6th. 196

How can parents help youth studying to exams? Youth study differently compared to how their parents used to study for exams. Nowadays youth study often while being on facebook, hearing music and playing a game on the television. In the old days studying for exam meant to be seated by a table in absolutely quietness while everybody else in the house tiptoes around not to make noise. Pernille Stockfleth worked with young people through decades and follows youth habits living and studying and will reveal to parents how they can support their children in studying for their exams.

Living in a monastery in Thailand amongst monks Caroline Rulis, 21 years old, left Denmark and her comfort zone to volunteer teaching English in a temple in Thailand. Caroline got the opportunity to live in the temple for three months and she is coming to Gallery ART Fellov to share her experiences and to tell about how life is in a monastery. Being in the monastery Caroline had the opportunity to meet Thailand`s Prime Minister, the grandmother Queen of Bhutan and some of Bhutan`s princesses as they visited the temple while Caroline was there. June 11th.

Horse whisperer and shaman Soeren Carlsen works with horse whispering and shamanism using skull secral therapy. SĂ¸ren is visiting the gallery 13th of June and as he will show how he works with horses we are having two horses in the garden surrounding the gallery. One of the horses sometimes gets in a bad mood so we are looking forward to see if Soeren can figure out why. After the horse whispering session Soeren will continue talking about energy fields in humans. 197

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Poetry from my secret draw Bettina Fellov has secretly been writing poems the last 30 years and as the gallery planned the program of June, coworkers in the gallery, overhearing that Bettina wrote a lot of poems, convinced her to read her poems. The poems are of different kinds though a lot of them are political, about religion and integration. Some poems are from everyday life and even there are some erotic poems. June 16th.

Facebook for the first time Facebook is the way of communicating with family and friends especially if distances in between is long. Children and grandchildren often travel and it can be hard to be kept in the loop of their lives if one is not using modern communication. This course will introduce beginners to Facebook enable people to follow their friend and family on Facebook. June 18th.

Learn how to get in shape with arthritis and other ailments Orthopedic surgeon Henrik Aagaard will be telling about how to make exercises in the gym or fitness center without adding more pain or more damage to knees, the back that already have problems. June 20th.

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DragĂ¸r - a pittoresque village with a strong local community Dragoer is an idyllic village just outside Copenhagen and even closer situated to Copenhagen airport. Dragoer can easily be visited by bus, cycle or car from Copenhagen or from the airport. Prepared by Bettina Nada Fellov Photos by Poul Hein and Bettina Fellov

The center of Dragoer is the old harbor serving as a gathering point for the locals as the harbor always is busy of people working in old fishing boats, in the boatyard, serving from restaurants or selling traditional Danish ice creams. Beside the working people many local can be found in and around the harbour as they are kayaking, sailing, shopping, buying fresh fish from the fishing boats or sailing on surfboard. In the middle of the old harbor you will notice the old Pilot Tower, which actually is the oldest building of its kind in Denmark and now serves as a museum. Dragoer is situated in the entrance to the Sound from the Baltic Sea so piloting boats has been a huge part of Dragoer`s history. 202

Shipping Town since 1200 “Dragoer is already mentioned in Saxo’s Chronicles of Denmark (Saxonis Grammatica Historia Danica). In the Middle Age the town was the centre for the great herring adventure in the Baltic Sea.

At the beginning a poor fishing village – later ever-richer and bigger on trading with the outside world. In the 18th century Dragoer was the biggest shipping town in Denmark - second only to Copenhagen. But the war with England in 1807 cost the town a large part of its ships, and it was never as before. With the steamships at the end of 19th century the days of glory of Dragoer were over. 203

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During the Second World War many Jews fled to Sweden hidden in fisher boats – one of which, the cutter K571 Elisabeth of Dragoer, now being a museum ship and is seen in the harbour. Three museums portray Dragoer: Dragoer Museum with the Maritime history and beautiful interiors, the Pilot Museum in the oldest pilot station in Denmark at the harbour, and the maritime painter Christian Mølsted’s Museum. The military strategic location of Dragoer by the always busy Baltic Sea has implied that Dragoer has two forts – Dragoer Fort close by the town and Kongelundsfortet far south by Kongelunden. Both forts are open to the public.” ( Source: Extracts from tourist brochure in Dragoer”)

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The old town Walking through the pedestrian street to the harbor the old town will be on the right hand and visiting the town is really worthy as the cottages are beautiful, all yellowish with red tiles and some even have thatched roofs. Walking through the small alleys of the old town, you will notice that many of the inhabitants in the old part of Dragoer decorate there cottages on the outside with holyhocks which give the street a special beautiful and calm atmosphere. People living in the old part of Dragoer sometime tell stories about tourists who believe that the old town is a museum town and suddenly they appear in the living room of the cottage owners.

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Goose Republic Dragoer has its own “Goose Republic” which is situated near the “Grand Mam beach” and the Sea bath. The Goose republic is housing around 300 geese and other poultry. All poultry is grazing on salt meadows and the ducks have access to the sea. In the old days all geese were sailed to Saltholm an island in the Sound to spend the summer. The Goose Republic with the all the poultry “houses” draws kids to the Republic, the beach or the Sea bath.

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The locals As Dragoer is a small village everybody knows everybody or a least everybody knows somebody who knows somebody else. Being a village with a lot of children it is quiet safe as we all look after each other children. Should a child have an incident or accident it is always easy to get hold of the parents even you donÂ´t know them, somebody in your network will know the parents. Raising teenagers it is always nice to know what they are doing and how they behave and that we do know in Dragoer as parents are networking to support the teenagers in the transition from being a child to be a grown up. On the other hand teenagers are not always satisfied by the parents networking. 211

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Anne Vaergman is a debuting author and had her reception in Gallery ART Fellov. Asking Anne Vaergman why she decided to become an author, she answered is has always been my dream to become an author. Anne has written her story, which we are sharing here. Anne´s book is written in Danish

though

will

translated

English

demands.

A childhood dream comes true. I am now an author. By Anne Vaergman

My name is Anne Værgman, born in 1961 in H.C Andersen’s home country of Denmark. It all began when I was a teen taking a stroll with a classmate in Dragør, a small Danish fisherman town. As we walked into a park area we found a book. We looked for a name to find the owner, but there was no name. I opened the book on a random page. It was a romantic book. Even though I only read a page or two, I forgot all about my surroundings and was completely taken by the feelings described in the book. I lowered the book and said to myself. “I want to become an author. I want to bring this same feeling to readers”. Being a teen and maybe a bit naive as to how much work it would require to become an author I did not doubt my dream would come true. I felt determined and wanted to become an author at some point in my life. 214

Previously, before this stroll, as a young child I told my sisters and friends ghost stories when we had nothing else to do. I told the stories from my imagination. During my childhood we only had one childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s TV program once a week and we had no computers. For many years I did not write. I studied and put the authoring dream on hold, but when my daughter was born I signed her up to become members of a book club. She was 6 months old and I read and read to her because in my opinion it strengthened the bond between us. I had also heard that if you read a lot to your child, she/he becomes a stronger reader. I also told my daughter stories making them up as I went along. I let her be a part of the story which she enjoyed very much. It would take until 2013 for my childhood dream to come true, and what a nice feeling living out my dream. My hope is that my book will make others forget about their surroundings just like my experience so many years ago when I was a teen. 215

When my daughter was in grade two or three I joined her class for an event. We were to take the train, but standing on the platform we got an announcement that the train was delayed. My author gene came up, and I asked the kids if they wanted to hear a story (so that they would stand quiet and not run around on the platform). They said yes and I told stories as they stood still and listened carefully. I used their names and the children became part of the story as I knew it would catch their attention even more. The train arrived and off we went. On the way back they asked if I could tell more stories. I said yes, and stories I told. When I came home, I felt the time was ripe to start wri-ting stories instead of just telling them. However, a few years went by. With a full time job it was hard to find time to write, however I felt it was now or never. My husband, my daughter and I took a year leave of absence and went to live in Ottawa, Canada. I wrote two books, a children’s ghost story and a book about our stay. Back in Denmark, I was very fortunate to find a publisher who agreed to publish my children’s book and later my other books (www.livskilden.dk). The publisher liked the children’s book because it is a sweet ghost story with a hint of humor. In the book the reader follows a ghost family. As a harmonic family they work together with respect and love, even though there are a few scary parts in the beginning of the story. But it has a happy ending. The family enters the real world through an hollow old oak tree, and almost each member helps a person in the real world, except one family member who scares people in the real world until he gets scared himself. The father of the ghost family was a pirate when he was alive, and he tells a story from his real life. My book is titled “Matte Family – My becomes a family member”. My is two years old, and happily enters the ghost family and fits in perfectly.

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Photo Exhibition Zeljko Jelavic “Inspiring River”

Photos taken at Slavonski Brod, Cr

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Wellgreen Lewes A skincare ideology

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Daphne odora aureomarginata – my favourite flower…ever By Amanda Jane Saurin

I have been watching my Daphne for weeks like a mother hen waiting for her eggs to hatch and finally, this morning most of the flowers were fully open. For those unfamiliar with this little treasure, the foliage is green with a margin of yellowy gold (hence the aureomarginata bit) and the flowers appear in tight clusters – pink buds give way to white flowers and the scent is stunningly lovely. It is sweet but not sickly, heady and intensely floral with a delicious lemony back-note. 233

I have wanted to try to distil this flower for several years but couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t source enough flowers to play with â&#x20AC;&#x201C; however this year my own plant has produced enough to fill my little tester Alembic Still. I have a particular love for this unassuming plant because my friend Susie Swan gave me a tiny twig of it when it was in full bloom which I took to the hospital with me for the birth

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of my 6th child. The whole room sang with the scent and filled me with joy. My daughter is named Flora in part because of this plant. This morning I set about picking the flowers by sitting on the path and very carefully cutting away the flower panicles. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve left one or two because it seemed mean to take them all. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t describe the scent as I picked, it was wonderfulâ&#x20AC;Ś Having completed the picking, the little pile of flowers was sorted through removing any grotty bits and then it was all loaded into the little Alembic Still. I decided to add in the green sepals as an experiment - in rose distilling I pick off every bit of green to ensure that it is only a perfect rose petal scent but in this instance I thought the sepals would add a green note.

I loaded the whole lot into the Alembic and added just enough water to comfortably cover the flowers and then closed her up, sealed the joints with rye flour and lit the burner. I ran the Still on a low heat to start with, gradually increasing the heat until the steam started to flow and the distillate started to drip into the bottle.

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The moment the flower water starts to emerge is thrilling, especially with a new flower. It is incredibly difficult not to immediately start sniffing the contents but patience at this stage is a virtue.

The distillation took a couple of hours and I got about 200mls of wonderful flower water. It smells green and floral and as you inhale the final note is lemony and earthy. Wonderful! Now I need about 20 bushes to fill the big Alembic – anybody got any spare flowers to swap for soap I’ve made? ___________________________________________ Interested in reading more lovely posts? Visit www.wellgreenlewes.com

Wellgreen Lewes is based in the beautiful County town of Lewes in East Sussex. Our whole range of skincare is made in a beautiful historic house dating from 1542 nestling right underneath Lewes Castle. Amanda joyfully distills flowers, herbs, leaves and even roots in her Alembic Still which are used in the whole skincare and perfume range. She is also a Homeopathic, mother of 6 and the driving force behind Wellgreen Lewes in East Sussex. She makes top quality skin nourishment full of lovely ingredients without any additives. harmful preservatives or artificial scents or colours. As much as possible is locally sourced and everything is selected for its freshness and quality. Many of the flower waters and essential oils are made by Amanda in her huge Copper Alembic Still – a truly stunning handcrafted delight. The results are beautiful, environmentally sustainable and responsibly handmade soaps, creams, body butters, salt scrubs, flower waters and lip balms. 236

website www.wellgreenlewes.com facebook https://www.facebook.com/WellgreenLewes twitter @wellgreenlewes phone +4479 799 26831 237

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Joaquim F. L. Pimp達o: On Portugal, Budapest, music, art and the world of social networking 240

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Nektarina (S)pace: You grew up in Portugal, and you moved to Budapest when you were 20, and you've lived there for 30 years. How would you compare the two countries, their cultures, people, what you love about them? Joaquim F. L. Pimpão: I was born in Portugal, in a small village, Amiais de Baixo. When I was seven years old I moved to the city of Santarém and at 21 I came to study to Budapest. So am Portuguese but my city is Budapest. I often say that Budapest has adopted me and happy, I let be adopted by this beautiful city in Central Europe (Mitteleuropa). I am a lucky man, I live in my city and my job here is to promote my country… The Portuguese culture is “more facing the sea, the ocean”, to the other continents. Portugal received (receive) many influences from outside Brazil, Africa, the Far East (Asia) Hungarian culture and tradition is more focused on this (huge) region of Europe. Hungary has a culture and history “more European”. We know that do not everything that is (was) Europe is good, if we recall the two world wars, the social convulsions, policies, the dismemberment of empires ... Hungary suffered greatly from this, in terms of human lives, destruction of the country, the heritage, etc.. Portugal from the Napoleonic invasions (1811) does know what it is to have war on its territory. It shows in our heritage, our history is intact. For this and many other things the Portuguese are more open than the Hungarians. The story was more "stepmother" with the Hungarians than the Portugueses. Nektarina (S)pace: You wrote a blog for four years (2008 - 2012). Why did you start a blog, what did you write about, and what it meant to you? Joaquim F. L. Pimpão: Yes it is true is called the blog, but in reality it isn’t. I explain, my pseudonym - I had others when I was correspondent in Budapest for Portuguese 243

newspapers - for poetry, for “Palavras”('Words') is Pedro Assis Coimbra. (PAC). So when I finish a new work, I put. I share on my "blog" but I don’t to use as a means of regular communication . Nektarina (S)pace: You have over 3,700 facebook friends, and you inspire them daily with your posts related to culture, art and music. How do you see your "facebooking"? How do you decide what to post each day, which music to share and which art / photography / other cultural topics? Joaquim F. L. Pimpão: I recognize that the FB has become important to me. Yes there are many "friends" from FB and among them are my best friends in real life. The FB is a way for me to convey my messages with my ideas, my tastes, my doubts, my protests, my quest for a better and more beautiful world. My activity on FB is a “mix”. Every day when I drive to my office and usually listen to classical music on radio, I think of what I will post. Naturally I turn to Google to find out who was born in this day, etc.. On the other hand, it is an exercise in improvisation when I'm on the network and see an interesting post and I decide to share. But even so I always try to put an "extra" with “my style”. Yesterday for example I saw a painting of a Russian painter and the other a Persian painter (both woman), So I decided to share enclosing an excerpt from a poem of the poetess Anna Akhmatova and Forough Farrokhzad. Nektarina (S)pace: You are a poliglote. Would you say it is easier to understand a nation's culture if one speaks that language? Joaquim F. L. Pimpão: Really I am not a polyglot, indeed I must confess that I speak bad (or badly) the various foreign languages that I know. But it is also true that I can communicate, to understand andto make me understand. On the other hand, being able to read in several languages is a great advantage. 244

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Having the ability to compare, deepen, "fly in the original” gives me immense pleasure Nektarina (S)pace: Many people say that social networks tend to be impersonal, yet in your interactions on your wall you are very friendly and personal with everyone, greeting them etc. How do you see the world of social networks? Joaquim F. L. Pimpão: Real life is real life. The virtual world is very important, increasingly important but it can not replace the daily life, family, friends, work, smells, tastes, touching the skin, caressing the face, hand in hair, etc. Okay, it is also true that social networks are now an essential means of communication, contact persons, make friends, find new passions and new loves…increase knowledge., etc etc..Normally I do for being a. friendly person - In Portugal we say "Pay-if it be a bad mood or a good mood, be nice or being nasty, the price is the same” ... so why not try to be" gentleman"? Nektarina (S)pace: Is there an artist and/or composer that you find particularly inspiring and why? Joaquim F. L. Pimpão: It is one question that I would give for a very very long answer. So I just can to answer "partially and in pairs." If the painting I have to mention 2 Gustav - Klimt, with his innovation, rupture, darin…and Courbet by the intensity of its realism… In classical music,Liszt played by Cziffra and Paganini by Perlman. In both cases for being the long plain that precedes the marvelous feeling of paradise.. In “other” music, I will confine myself for the French language, by Piaf and Cantautor (Singersongwriter) Brel….I love both. When I listen them I am always moved I don’t know what else I can say more… In the photograph again two, Robert 246

Doisneau and Capa. They photographed the life, people, day to day, the war, te death… uniquely and so personal…and I could continue with the cinema, poetry, football ... Nektarina (S)pace: What is your favourite bit of Budapest? Why? Joaquim F. L. Pimpão: Budapest is a city that is beautiful by its splendor "per si", with Danube river separating and uniting Buda and Pest.. In Budapest I like the margins on the Danube, the green spaces and architecture. I would highlight the Castle with its view of the city and its classical setting, the living memory of the "Belle Époque".

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Nihad Penava: Regarding media

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Nihad graduated from the BBC High School of Broadcasting and he has been a journalist since 2000. He worked as a producer and correspondent for Deutsche Welle. Nihad currently works as a communication and production advisor and is based in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Interviewed by Sandra Antonovic Photo credits and copyrights Nihad Penava

Nektarina (S)pace: Would you say that in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world of internet, social networks and social media people are better informed that 10 or 15 years ago, or not? Nihad Penava: We have many more possibilities, sources and rescues to be better informed today. Internet, social networks and social media are able to react very quickly, producing and transiting news immediately, even all over the world. These contemporary forms of media are powerful, often spreading a strong impact around. They are able to produce and transmit plenty and plenty of information, useful or less useful. Do we lose news quality, being that productive and quick? Sometimes yes. Do these media educate enough? They could educate more, but of course, they do provide high level of democracy, particularly providing us with open forums, and encourage civic journalism at the same time. Are people better informed today? Hard to answer precisely. I would say yes, but also more confused, being attacked by so many media compared to 10 or 15 years ago. At least, we have a choice today. 251

Media transparency is not just important, it is crucial. Nektarina (S)pace: How important is transparency in news and media in general? Is there transparency in media at all? Nihad Penava: Media transparency is not just important, it is crucial to survive all influences and pressures nowadays. It is one of the most important fact defending media independence and professionalism. At least, it should be right like that. At the same time, we are witnesses of many opposite cases that are often, unfortunately, subjects of aggressive lobbies, marketing, the global crisis, different hidden interests etc. Media transparency exists, but it is still measured by tiny values.

Nektarina (S)pace: Many news outlets seem to be losing credibility (CNN is one example), usually for very basic things like not checking the source of information, not checking the facts. Why would you say that is? The need to be â&#x20AC;&#x153;a fast delivery news outletâ&#x20AC;?, slipping professionalism or has sensationalism won over the investigative journalism? Nihad Penava: Quantity often does not work with quality, as well, speed often does not work with professionalism and credibility. If we can keep all of these things it would be excellent, but it is not easy, particularly having so many parallel sources. Commercial media often do run for exclusivity and sensationalism and that is understandable, because it often sells a piece of media work, especially if they are going to present true information, covered by 252

relevant facts, but trying to be a quickest - they often simply do not have enough time to check its source, one or more, that is surely a huge risk and danger for their professional existence and potential bad audience feedback. Audience is the most important judge. Concerning "investigative journalism", it seems it is very posh today to try to sell any piece of journalism as investigative. It sounds rich.

Media transparency exists, but it is still measured by tiny values.

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Nektarina (S)pace: Is the (mainstream) media more biased than it used to be, or not? There are biased and ethical media, it doesn't matter whether they are mainstream or not.

Nektarina (S)pace: You worked for Deutsche Welle, and you also had a chance to spend some time at BBC. How would you compare the two? What were your experiences? Nihad Penava:

I graduated at the London's BBC High School of

Broadcasting Journalism in 2002, which aims for students to learn and follow high standards and guidelines of broadcasting journalism that have been developed and recognized since 1922. Regarding the Deutsche Welle, my experience there is as a producer, based in Cologne and Bonn, as well as a correspondent from the Balkans. BBC and DW have almost a same mission, strengthening independent journalism worldwide in more than 30 languages, including education, particularly during wars, crisis and different conflicts where media are often corrupted and powerless.

Nektarina (S)pace:

What would you say is the main difference in how

information is presented in the Western World media and in the Arab World media? Nihad Penava: The Arabic World is facing a rapid expansion that also includes media expansion. Many economic analysts say they are even escaping the global economic crisis all the time, but professional media are professional media, based in Doha or London for example. 255

Nektarina (S)pace: What is mainstream media today? With the huge reach of socialnetworks would you say that they are becoming the mainstream media, or are things (a bit) different? Nihad Penava: It is more a philosophical thesis, less a media one. "Mainstream" is sometimes a relative measure and mainstream media are often not connected with their number of readers or origin. It is possible to say that social networks are currently getting these mainstream values right.

"Mainstream" is sometimes a relative measure. Nektarina (S)pace: Can we talk about independent media today? How do you see independent media today? Nihad Penava: All media belongs to anybody, directly or indirectly, that has its or their missions, goals, interests... Their media are their property and they are unfortunately often the easiest way to realize their goals, even sometimes trying to manipulate audience into getting their attention. The answer is clear, I would say. Seriously now, the situation is getting worse, but there are still enough independent media, luckily.

Nektarina (S)pace: Many people see PR as â&#x20AC;&#x153;controlling the information (flow)â&#x20AC;?. Would you agree? Why? Nihad Penava: It is even possible to say that is kind of their job or, at least, a part of their job. They defend colours of their profession.

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Anam Gill vs Pakistani elections “If voting changed anything, they’d make it illegal” 260

By Anam Gill

With the election fervor at its peak, various political parties blowing their trumpets, people dreaming and hoping for change, I am once again caught in the oblivion. I watch this spectacle with the detachment of an anatomist or the imperturbable spectator. I watch it with a thousand questions and feelings of rage assailing me, with a hope of understanding in what way; these people determine my destiny, our destiny. Our destiny, does it depend on universal laws or on a few individuals or nothing else? Being exposed to these vigorous election campaigns, playing on the idea of change and justice, I am reminded of the saying by Emma Goldman “if voting changed anything, they’d make it illegal.” Here one cannot overlook the sacrifices of those innumerable individuals who marched hand in hand for democracy. But is democracy that simple definition we learnt in school? Who is there to say that they did not teach us lies at school? Or is it about making democracy a reality, a reality I long to live. It’s an old dilemma, which no one has resolved or ever will. It is like that trap where each answer carries within itself its own contradiction. 261

Bertrand Russell once wrote “Whether the populations of the world are to live or die rests with the decisions of Khrushchev, Mao Tse Tung and Mr. John Foster Dulle, not with ordinary mortals like ourselves. If they say “die”, we shall die. If they say “live” we shall live.” Maybe he is wrong but I cannot exclude the idea that our existence is decided by a few people, their dreams and will. I do not understand the mechanism of power by which some men or women become invested with the right to rule over others and punish them if they do not obey. Of course to avoid chaos a group requires a governing authority but the tragic part is the need for an authority to be governed. Those who determine our destiny are not really better than us. They can be more ambitious and enterprising but they are neither more intelligent, nor enlightened nor stronger than us. I do understand those who criticise and rebel against power imposed by brutality. I do understand the silence of those who do not react or who suffer at the hands of these powers, mostly misled and fooled by them. Whether power comes from a treacherous general or an adored leader, I see power as a hateful and inhuman phenomenon. We, the young population, everywhere in the world are viewed as impatient, disobedient and dissenters. There are some who acknowledge our thirst for justice, a word that has been exploited a lot; a word that is so utopian. Strolling on the Muhammad Mahmoud street in Egypt after the revolution and seeing the graffiti of all those young martyrs filled me with regret, a young person born in the year 1995 lost his life for what? He had a right to dream and discover. 262

Sadly, I don’t have any solutions. Anyone who has the solution in their pocket is a presumptuous fool. I only have an opinion which can be summed up in two letters NO. No to the vulgar disparities I witness every day. No to the false promises being made. I don’t want to be misled or fooled by the power structures which are so deep-rooted that I will be lost even if I try to trace that path. I want to think. People don’t think anymore, they feel. “Watch your thoughts for they become words, watch your words for they become actions, watch your actions for they become habits, watch your habits for they become character and watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.”

Anam is a student of media studies, passionate and committed toward issues of human rights and social justice.

An interview with Anam Gill can be read in our May issue.

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Living loving life experiencing…. By Bettina Fellov and Camilla Lærke Lærkesen Photos by Bettina Fellov and Frederik Rogren A friend called me, asking if I would walk for cancer at midnight and one hour ahead 25th of May as she had signed up and was prevented joining the walk. So off I went to experience a wonderful walk and such cozy atmosphere in the school yard of Dragoer School. People were gathered in the yard while a band, Bloody Merry was playing and some people was walking or running the distance. In front of the stage there were many paperback lights which I heard of before but never had the fantasy to imagine how it looks and it looks amazing. 266

Starting walking my distance which was lighted by paperback lights, I decided to know more about the Relay For Cancer and contacted Camilla LĂŚrke LĂŚrkesen one of the people arranging this event to ask details of what it all was about. You can read her story here:

Relay For Life Relay For Life is one of the biggest non-profit fundraising events in the world, however most people have never heard of it. The concept is difficult to understand and I often experienced that as soon as people heard that it is a 24 hour event of relay race they stopped listening. It was too weird. Too much time to spend on an unclear task. Originally the Relay was invented of an American doctor in 1985 who wanted to do something for his cancer patients. He rented a sports stadium where friends and family could donate 25 dollars to come and run with him. More people came to participate or watch and he raised 27.000 dollars that day. Today there are more than 5000 relays in America and relays in more than 20 different countries on different continents. I did not know all of this when I got involved. I am 21 years old and back then I was in need of a job. It was quite a coincidence that I saw a notice in a shop window in my town. I went to a meeting and before I knew it, I was head of the team coordinator group. Not long after two women joined me. It turned out they were more clueless than I, because they thought they had signed up for a relay race and now we were planning it. We even had one of the most important roles: find participants. The challenge was to convince others to spend 24 hours of their weekend on an event we had not been to ourselves and what was described as something you cannot explain, because it has to be experienced. 267

It is both fundraising and relay. It is a celebration of life and yet it is too hard for some people to be involved. The guests of honor are called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Fightersâ&#x20AC;?. They are current or previous cancer patients. They are here to be praised. They are here because they are not alone. Participating with a team is a way of showing the Fighters that they are not fighting alone. Walking through day and night is a struggle that we can only manage together. We lift the burden together because that way it is a little easier. We give one day of our lives to those who may not have many left and we do it to show that we care and that we are there for them. What I like most about the experience is all of its elements. It is a fundraising but it is not the most important thing. The Fighters are guests of honor but you do not need to be or know a Fighter to be there.

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We expected between 10 and 15 teams with about ten participations on each this first year the Relay For Life came to Dragoer. In the beginning it was slow but as the word spread more and more teams signed up and we ended up with 20 teams and more than 300 people. Every team is fundraising in their own name. Some sold homemade cookies, some brought therapists to sell massages, there were face paint, lemonade, lottery and so much more. In the end all the money is donated altogether. Most teams also find a sponsor who donates an amount of money per round. It motivates the teams to keep going and includes the local businesses in the fundraising in a fun way. Personally I made a lottery and I was amazed to get 46 donated gifts to this purpose. The support and interest from local sponsors were massive. Each team is supposed to have at least one person out walking or running at all times. The rest gathers in tents on camping furniture enjoying the music, entertainment and activities going on. They are cheering for their teammates, dancing to the music, eating together and enjoying each otherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s company. There is a light and happy atmosphere and yet a hint of seriousness in the good way from all the people counting their rounds, raising as much money as they can for the good cause. Everybody was focused and laborious in the middle of all the fun, the laughing and the quality time. I think that is why it went so well. Everybody had an interest in being there and doing their best while having an amazing time. During the 24 hours of the event there are a few ceremonies both festive ones and sad ones. My favorite one is the first; all the Fighters get a balloon as the event opens after the opening speeches and on the count of three they let it go. Hundreds of colorful balloons fly op in the air symbolizing the Fighters letting go of the cancer. Hereafter all the Fighters in matching, bright yellow t-shirts lead on in the first round of Relay For Life and all the rest of us follow them. The Fighters looked so happy and proud. It was beautiful. At night there is a 269

ceremony of light. For months we had sold paperbags for people to decorate and write to our loved ones. We write to those who fight and to the ones who lost their fight. We write to the ones we miss and the ones we do not want to lose. We write all the things that are too hard to say. When it is dark we light a candle in each bag and place it in front of the scene. We listen to beautiful live music and take time to think of all these people with their names on the bags. Then we place the bags around the route to light for us during the night. It was clear to me that in the morning time there was a spirit of peace, satisfaction, relief and happiness as the sun went up and the teams had made it through the night. It is indeed true that Relay for Life cannot be explained but has to be experienced and all of the skeptics came to me and told me how thankful they were for being there and that they would be back next year. And of course we have already set the date for 2014.

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Saving Energy

HOFOR (formerly known as Københavns Energi) and 10:10 Danmark together took the initiative in 2012 to initiate the campaign ’Sommerluk.dk’ which should put focus on the big potential of saving energy and CO2 by shutting the district heating system correctly down for the summer. This year we are running the campaign once again. It is estimated that more than half of the Danish district hearting users do not close their district heating system down for summer, or are doing it wrong. This means a lot of wasted money and a lot of CO2 in the atmosphere that could be avoided. That is why HOFOR contacted 10:10 Danmark and together we took the initiative for the Sommerluk.dk campaign. 276

The goal for the campaign is to make a national campaign amongst energy delivering companies/utilities and interest groups, to put focus on the big energy savings and the optimized use of the heating, which can be reached by closing the district heating system correctly for the summer. We want to make the ‘Sommerluk.dk’ campaign a recurring event and make a network, which puts focus on district heating. Also the campaign has as a goal to work together with plumbing services, to make them make their customers aware of turning down the heating system for summer time, so a lot of the effort to save energy by the energy delivering companies/utilities is taken into account. Additionally the campaign has as a goal to make a network where knowledge and experience can be shared.

The method for the campaign is a broad cooperation between HOFOR and 10:10 Danmark and all interested organizations and companies. To make it easier to get the message of the campaign broadly spread, there has been produced material about the campaign that is free for anyone to use. There is also a website with information and a video, which tells how a typical “summer closure” is done (www.sommerluk.dk). Furthermore we have as a target to be present in the media, with the help of press releases, advertisements, using the social media, and our own website. We have already reached a lot of media coverage, both in national and regional television, newspapers, etc. The campaign in 2012 was a success. It made a lot of people think and talk about “summer closing” the district heating system. This is why we want to repeat the campaign this year too. It will start the 15th of May 2013. 277

How to prepare your heating system for the summer As the weather turns warmer, and you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel that the heat from your radiators is needed anymore, you should turn off your heating system. For many people the 15th of May is the right time, while others find it more appropriate to wait until early June. Regardless the time there will be energy savings to obtain. Turn off the circulation pump and the valve for the heat exchanger To turn off your heating system for the summer you have to turn off the circulation pump for the radiator system and close the heating systems valve for the heat exchanger. Be aware that not all district heating systems are alike. If you have any doubts, contact your local utility or plumber/heating and sanitary engineer. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be able to answer your questions. 278

Avoid problems with the circulation pump For the circulation pump for the radiator system it isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t appropriate to stand still for a longer period of time. For that reason the pump has to be turned on for ten seconds once a month. By doing this youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll avoid the pump from sticking. Pay attention to humidity/moisture When turning off the circulation pump and the valve for the heat exchanger for the summer, it is important to ensure regular ventilation, as a lot of newer buildings are so well isolated that a lack of ventilation can result in humidity/ moisture problems. This is especially relevant if the summer is relatively cold. If you normally have the heat turned on in the basement to avoid humidity/ moisture you shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t turn off your heating system unless you have found other ways to ensure a proper dehumidification. We generally recommend that you maintain a good indoor climate. Dew on the window panes can be an indication of humidity/moisture problems. There is a risk of humidity/moisture problems if The summer is cold You live in a newer, well isolated house You do not ventilate properly

Photo and visuals credits Sommerluk campaign.

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The sink is the bin of water. By Bettina Nada Fellov

Water is the only product that we throughout in the same moment that we buy it. Imagine to go shopping in a supermarket buying eggs and through them out in a bin as soon as you paid for the eggs. That would never happen but that is actually how we treat the product water. Opening for the tap we buy water and through it out as the water disappear in the sink and out the sewer system. How come we value eggs higher than water? Production of eggs takes only half a year from the chicken leaves its egg shell. Production of clean water from the underground takes between 20 years and up to several hundred years depending on the composition of the underground. The average domestic water consumption per person per day is 117 liter in Denmark having investigated the internet for average consumption of domestic water throughout the world gives quiet a good idea that within water consumption there are huge potentials of saving water and thereby contribute to diminish CO2 emissions due to heating of the water, producing the water and treatment of water in sewage systems. Starting up with the realizing that the 282

sink is the bin of water you will already start changing your habits using water . as you knowing that you through water out every time you open the tap. Next step is to find out how much water that is running out your tap. To

figure that out you need a measuring jug, then you open your tap and

hold the measuring jug under the running water for 6 seconds. The amount of deciliters of water in the jug is the same amount of liters per minute when multiplied with 10. If the amount of water is 8 liter or les it is all right. If your tap runs with higher amount of liters you can change the aerator to a aerator that save water. The same exercise you can perform with your shower. Shower given they are

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water saving shower should not let more water out than maximum 8 liters, if they lead out more water, you can save a lot of water exchanging the showerhead. Being in the bathroom you can check out if your toilet is leaking water. Grab a piece of toilet paper and fold it to put it on the back of the inside of the toilet, see photo. If the toilet paper gets wet from the top, your toilet is leaking water. Often leaking toilets are due to small limestone on the edge of the flushing channel in the buttom of the cistern. Emptying the cistern for water and adding in vinegar overnight usually fixes the problem with the leaking toilet. Now next step is addressing habits using water and of cause the tap should be closed while tooth brushing and cleaning vegetables should be done in bowls of water instead of cleaning them in running water. As the personal hygienic is a mayor post in water consumption, letÂ´s look into showering habits starting with mine. I shower daily three or five minutes, as I wash my hair every second day I need five minutes in the showers and days where I do not wash my hair I need three minutes, sometimes les depending on how busy I am.

My shower head send out 7 liter of water per minutes, so some day s my shower result in consumption of 21 liter and other days 35 liters. In average 4 minutes per day and 28 liter per day. Beneath you can find a table in which I have calculated water consumption during showering with different showers and with different length of showering. The table posted here

calculates the prices for

the water consumption while showering in Denmark, though I have put out the table on facebook for you to download being able to change the currency to the currency of your country. 284

Water consumption showering and prices in Dragør, Denmark 2013 Shower consumption per minute in this row

7 liter

10 liter

15 liter

Minutes in this column

M 4 5 6 10 15 20 30

10 13 15 26 38 52 77

EUR 76 95 114 190 286 384 571

15 18 22 37 55 73 110

EUR 109 136 163 272 408 544 816

22 27 33 55 82 110 164

20 liter

EUR 163 204 245 408 612 816 1224

29 37 44 73 110 146 219

EUR 218 272 326 544 816 1088 1632

Besides the consumption of water there is a pricing on heating the water. Assuming that the tap water without heating will be around 10 °C we will need the water to be heated to around our body temperature 37°C, meaning we need energy to heat the water 27°C. Using the heat transfer equation Q = m∙c∙Δt ; Q is the energy needed to heat a matter from one temperature to a wanted temperature, in our case heating our shower from 10°C to 37°C; m, the amount in Kilo ; c, is the heat capacity of the matter to be heated ; ∆t, is the temperatur change the matter has to be heated: t1-t2. Using this equation we are able to calculate energy consumption we need to shower with different shower heads and at different showering time. See table below.

Heating of water from 10ºC to 37ºC consumption and economy in Dragør, Denmark 2013

- energy

Calculations are based on heating with natural gas Shower consumption per minute in this row 7 liter Minutes in this column kWh EUR 4 321 36 5 401 44 6 481 53 10 802 89 15 1203 133 20 1617 179 30 2406 266

10 liter kWh EUR 458 51 573 63 688 76 1146 127 1719 190 2292 254 3438 381

15 liter kWh EUR 688 76 859 95 1031 114 1719 190 2578 285 3438 381 5157 571

20 liter kWh EUR 917 101 1146 127 1375 152 2292 254 3438 381 4584 507 6876 761

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Forget tumble drying, reduce your carbon footprint and save energy by becoming a part of 286

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Coming up in July issue

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Interview with Tara DePorte, founder of the Human Impacts Institute Interview with Kevin Buckland, Art Ambassador for 350.org Interview with Zeljko Serdar, founder of the Croatian Center of Renewable Energy Sources Jean Paul Brice Affana: Experiencing Cairo Volga Svorinic: Saving a City Online Exhibition: Radomir Kujundzic The Adriatic Love Affair Flemming Brylle, local artist at the age of 78 Torslunde Festival Summer, actually

and much more

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Image sourcesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; links https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=455411464533734&set=a.140461122695438.35463.134756069932610&type=1&theater https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=455138481227699&set=a.140461122695438.35463.134756069932610&type=1&theater https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=453655878042626&set=a.140461122695438.35463.134756069932610&type=1&theater https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=452488891492658&set=a.140461122695438.35463.134756069932610&type=1&theater https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=450399058368308&set=a.140461122695438.35463.134756069932610&type=1&theater https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=449678981773649&set=a.140461122695438.35463.134756069932610&type=1&theater https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=448142028594011&set=a.140461122695438.35463.134756069932610&type=1&theater https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=435252739882940&set=a.140461122695438.35463.134756069932610&type=1&theater https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=433655073376040&set=a.140461122695438.35463.134756069932610&type=1&theater https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=430720737002807&set=a.140461122695438.35463.134756069932610&type=1&theater https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=408752015866346&set=a.140461122695438.35463.134756069932610&type=1&theater https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=399953960079485&set=a.140461122695438.35463.134756069932610&type=1&theater http://edudemic.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/art-inspiration.png http://www.tobagohotspots.com/sites/default/files/coral.jpg http://i1296.photobucket.com/albums/ag11/Aidan_Brady/Posts/Aerial_zpsed081005.gif http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tQA-JxQYIRo/Tlut0D8QH1I/AAAAAAAAADs/fxrPHwwptBs/s1600/ BsMw5.jpg http://we.mpact.it/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/859400_459874407416265_56480307_o.jpg http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_BCushMrFOS4/TRBUbL3IgsI/AAAAAAAAACw/JnEbTT0qL7M/s1600/ ocean3.jpg 294

http://animal-backgrounds.com/lion/lion-wallpapers-hd.html https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=356635381078010&set=a.140461122695438.35463.134756069932610&type=1&theater http://www.jambonewspot.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Oped.jpg https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=10151487905612535&set=a.429311047534.229621.85271652534&type=1&theater https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=478242452252816&set=a.477273645683030.1073741826.477271112349950&type=1&theater https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=382561221848964&set=a.162734817164940.27911.129370207168068&type=1&theater http://media1.teenormous.com/items/www.hipsoul.com/social-white-white06.gif http://blog.us.cision.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/word-cloud.jpg http://ak3.picdn.net/shutterstock/videos/2490347/preview/stock-footage-pakistan-flag-waving-grungelook.jpg http://worldoceansday.org/celebration-ideas/marketing-kit/ http://www.globalocean.org.uk/resources/ http://www.british-assessment.co.uk/images/sized/static/images/articles/photo-five-steps-to-sustainabilityhttps://fbcdn-sphotos-f-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/463985_373612749425510_812771456_o.jpg https://www.facebook.com/photo.php? fbid=595178503848933&set=a.545133395520111.131122.212514318782022&type=1&permPage=1

Nektarina (S)pace is a web magazine published monthly by Nektarina Non Profit, a non governmental, non profit organization registred in Croatia. ISSN 1847-6694 www.nektarinanonprofit.com 295

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