Life in Balance issue 7

life in balance

redefine your thinking – one person can make a difference your free copy

ISSUE 7 N ove mb e r 09

02

news & innovations pa per t ra i l s, wi nni ng wo rds

04

design Forest creations, black chilli desi gn, f ree fo l d f ur ni t ure

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living t he go o dness of Go edgeda cht , pro j ect 90 x 203 0

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travel Pug h to swi m M o unt Everest , st ra nge pl a ces, pha nto m fo rest

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food & drink ea t i ng sm a r t , zi ngy dressi ngs f i ve-m i nute fo o d

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products & wellness jeans & iron trees, clean cosm et i cs & gi veaways

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art & books bo o ks, Dave M a t t hews CD downl oa d, events a nd cl a ssi f i eds

02 news

welcome The C words about to be on everyone’s lips are ‘Climate Change’. In the lead up to the big meeting in Copenhagen at the end of the year and likely deadlocks in carbon emission agreements, we can at least exercise personal choice and begin at home by doing our bit to reduce our carbon footprint. One person can make a difference and two initiatives stand out in their bid to educate and motivate us all to do our bit for the planet. In the Living page you will read about Project 90 x 2030 and in books we review ‘Bending the Curve’ which is South Africa’s guide to tackling climate change. I’m surprised at how easy it has been to do what I can and how much (in a relatively short period of time) has been achieved in my home by composting, recycling and re-using items. I significantly have reduced what I throw away for collection and dumping in a landfill and growing seeds on my window sill brings me a daily reminder of nature’s magic as they strive to grow. By not buying bottled water or juice I have saved at least 100 bottles that may have ended up as landfills. Over a lifetime this will add up. We all have a carbon footprint and it won’t be any government that will alter an individual’s carbon footprint.

Personal responsibility develops when there is an active understanding of what can be done by one person to help ease the collective load on this fair planet we live on.

October 24th was an international day of action dedicated to creating an equitable global climate treaty that lowers carbon dioxide below 350PPM. We went to press before the event but visit www.350.org to see what happened around the world. Enjoy this issue and may the news and stories inspire you. melissa@lifeinbalance.co.za

our contributors

winning words

talking garbage

All that is required of entrants into the draws for our popular giveaways, generously sponsored by the companies concerned, is an email with the specific giveaway in the subject line.

Even so, many of the entries contain a message in the body.

Now, while winners are subject only to the luck of the draw, every so often I receive an entry that makes me consider, however briefly, awarding the prize based purely on the entertainment value of the message itself.

The following are just a few of the entries that have brought a smile to my day or had me laughing out loud. Enjoy.

paper trail

The chocoholics were unanimous: - I too believe chocolate is good for the soul.

- A healthy one sure will be helpful.

- As a blatant ‘chocoholic’ I would love the opportunity of winning this prize As were the beer lovers: - I live in Jozi and you can’t get any JBB up here so would really like to win please.

- Please may I have some beer? Pretty please.

As a coffee lover I could identify with these: - Name: Coffee Connoisseur (or junkie) Religion: Double Macchiato - I love coffee!

Some enter all the giveaways: - Hi again…

- Here I am again!

Wendy Hardie started TV life at the BBC in London and is currently researching how our food is produced, for a possible TV series.

Si Ekin is a life coach whose mission is to help people to do what they say so they get what they want.

Thank you to all our entrants. Keep them coming; your turn to win may be next.

Sandy Barlow studied Fine Arts, and worked in the magazine industry as a journalist. She and her brother and a friend started Seattle Coffee Company 12 years ago.

Jean-Pierre Le Roux has studied health and nutrition for the last 23 years, with an emphasis on consciousness.

Publisher: Michael Beatham michael@lifeinbalance.co.za Editor: Melissa Baird melissa@lifeinbalance.co.za Assistant Editor and subscriptions: Michele Beatham michele@lifeinbalance.co.za Art director: Elinore de Lisle elinore@iafrica.com Production manager: Janine Weaver janine@lifeinbalance.co.za 021 481 1836 Printing: Ultra Litho Printer Printed using soya based inks on 80 gsm Bond Paper Cover photograph www.istockphoto.com © Life in Balance is published 10 times a year by Green Publishing (Pty) Ltd, 210 on Long Street, Cape Town, South Africa. Tel: 021 481 1836 All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the prior written consent of the publishers is strictly prohibited. All prices correct at time of going to press, but subject to change. The publishers cannot accept responsibility for any unsolicited materials. It is assumed that any images taken from sources which are widely distributed, such as on the Internet, are in the public domain.

However, since such images are passed freely between sources such as websites, the original source is not always possible to trace. It is possible that copyrighted material has ended up being treated as public domain as a result.

If you see a graphic or image in this publication which is not public domain please contact Green Publishing.

Please recycle

While recycling has been around for thousands of years, it is generally accepted that the modern environmental movement was born in the 1960s and 1970s, heralded specifically by the first Earth Day on 22 April 1970.

Around the same time, a US paperboard company, The Container Corporation of America, already involved in recycling and knowing it was an effective method of conserving natural resources, sponsored a competition for a logo that could represent paper recycling and identify recyclable products as well as those manufactured from recycled content.

The three arrows of Gary Dean Anderson’s winning entry, inspired by MC Escher’s Mobius Strip, would go on to become the internationally recognised, and used, recycling symbol.

Paper recycling in South Africa may not have as illustrious a history, but it is a story of success and growth.

The Paper Recycling Association of South Africa (PRASA) tells us that for every ton of paper recycled, 3m² of landfill space is saved, 17 trees are put to other uses, coal-based emissions are reduced by one ton, electricity-based emissions are reduced by 1.8 tons, and the energy savings would power 512 homes for a year (something to consider in these times of spiralling costs and continued interruptions).

The fact is that 40% less energy is needed to OSUMO 126 x 182.5 FA 30/9/08 10:28 Page 1 manufacture paper from recycled paper and

Others are to the point: - Hi. Please pick me!

- August is my birth month. Blatant begging!

And finally, the appreciated compliments: - So delightful to see these kinds of publications. Thank you.

- I’ve just come across life in balance.

It’s great - full of upbeat green info and beautifully laid out - thanks.

Tara and Brad Hale started Wild Organic Foods five years ago. The company distributes organic fruit, vegetables and herbs.

by michele beatham

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We give you the paper free of charge via our distribution partners and if all the copies are gone you can read it online at www.lifeinbalance.co.za.

Should you wish to receive a personal copy then please email janine@lifeinbalance.co.za. All you will be asked to do is pay for the postage costs to get it to you.

event review Getting on board the eco-journey

From the varied interdisciplinary presentations and high level of dialogue between audience and speakers, at least two facts were abundantly clear at the conclusion of the Santam Ecocentric Journey Conference, which took place in Cape Town from 15-17 September 2009. Sustainability is becoming a strategic necessity for business: participants were not preparing for the downside nor the upside of the green economy. The speed of this switch to a greener economy is a key driver of the future landscape for all businesses. thanks to our distribution partners...

Composite

emissions are reduced by 70%. Equally as important, it has directly and indirectly resulted in 20 000 jobs and in these economically challenging times, it is vital to not only create more jobs, but to maintain current employment levels.

In 2008, 58.64% (or 1,030,000 metric tons) of recyclable paper was recovered. According to PRASA, if all household paper and cardboard were recycled, we’d save a massive 750 000m³ of landfill space per annum. Given than one cubic meter is equal to 1000 litres, it’s a staggering figure.

While a 100% of households recycling rate does seem inconceivable, if each of us were to look closer to home, a 100% recovery rate in one household doesn’t seem quite as impossible.

big thought for the month...

Our generation’s greatest challenges – in environment, demography, poverty and global politics – are also our most exciting opportunity. Ours is the generation that can end extreme poverty, turn the tide against climate change and head off a massive, thoughtless and irreversible extinction of other species. Ours is the generation that can , and must, solve the unresolved conundrum of combining economic wellbeing with environmental sustainability. We will need science, technology and professionalism, but most of all we will need to subdue our fears and cynicism.

– Jeffrey Sachs, Director, Earth Institute at Columbia University.

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news & innovations 03

news & innovations Joburg City Parks wins

Johannesburg City Parks has been awarded a certificate by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) for its contribution to the Billion Tree Campaign.

It recognises particularly City Parks’ Greening Soweto project, which started at Shomang Primary School in Orlando West in 2006, when 6 000 trees were planted on pavements, streets and road. The overall aim is to plant 200 000 trees and with 165 300 planted so far, the target is very close to being reached.

Plant for the Planet: The Billion Tree Campaign has already exceeded its goal of planting 7 billion trees worldwide before the end of 2009. www.unep.org/billiontreecampaign

The project focuses on conserving sensitive ecosystems, preventing general environmental degradation and promoting the province’s heritage by establishing heritage sites and expanding pollution-free environments – all of which foster job creation.

In celebration of Arbor Month, a further 500 fruit and indigenous shade trees were donated to the community of Hluvukani on 11 September, adding to the 10 150 already distributed and planted in the Bushbuckridge District.

Not such a ‘Scilly’ Idea

The 2000 residents of five of the islands that make up the Scilly Isles were recently asked to switch off any electrical items they did not need and to monitor their consumption closely for a full 24 hours – to mark E-day (Electricity Saving Day) 2009 and as an experiment to show that cutting fuel bills and consumption are easily achieved.

And while the school chose that morning to bake scones, the final results were remarkable: consumption among families was cut by over 50% and the school still managed to reduce its consumption by 8.3%.

Full details can be found at www.e-day. org.uk, which includes real-time meters for the Scilly Isles and the whole of the UK. R60 million PET achievement

Greening Mpumalanga

Since the launch of the Heritage Greening Mpumalanga and Tourism Flagship Programme in 2007, residents have to date received 139 440 fruit and indigenous trees for their homes. This initiative makes Mpumalanga the first province to not only recognise the social, economic and environmental benefits of greening, but to set aside a substantial budge for implementation.

The PET plastic industry in South has injected R60 million into recycling, effectively doubling recycling tonnage in the past four years, and PETCO, the PET recycling company was largely instrumental in initiating these achievements.

Even 2008, with challenges that included the global recession, fluctuating oil prices and local electricity cuts – all factors that affect the PET industry reaching recycling targets – saw a continued rise in recycling.

2008 saw a growth in members of PETCO to nearly 40, as well as the collection and recycling of 22 737 tones of post consumer PET– equivalent to 757 million bottles and representing 28% of beverage

In Climate Change the Personal is Political By Lance Greyling, MP The historic Climate Change negotiations that are to take place in Copenhagen are less than two months away and there are still a number of issues that need to be resolved if we are to get a fair, ambitious and binding deal that will have any hope of avoiding catastrophic climate change.

For most people these negotiations are something far removed from their daily lives and many of us feel powerless to influence the global forces that are deadlocking these negotiations. Unfortunately our own government’s recent media statements on the issue have not been particularly helpful by claiming that we will not take on any reduction targets as we have our own development priorities. While I agree with the official negotiating stance that developing countries should not at this stage be forced to take on specific reduction targets, we must avoid creating the impression that we are not willing to take any responsibility for South Africa being the 14th biggest emitter of greenhouse gases in the world. This must be reflected both in our domestic climate change policies as well as in the attitude of our own citizens.

We cannot lament the lack of progress in

PET in South Africa.

PETCO also added Cape Town as a collection base and created an estimated 12 000 to 14 000 jobs in the process.

According to Cheri Scholtz of PETCO, although participation is voluntary, the industry is pulling together and incorporates all members of the PET value chain, including raw material members, making them unique. www.petco.co.za

climate change negotiations if we refuse to find ways of bringing down our own personal carbon footprints. Unfortunately the Deputy Minister of Environmental Affairs has not shown any leadership in this regard through her recent purchase of a 4.8 litre BMW X5 that emits an horrendous 299 g of Carbon Dioxide per kilometre travelled. The fact that none of the houses in the parliamentary village currently have solar water heaters is a further indication that we are not leading from the front on this issue. I am the first to recognise that there are many areas of my own life in which I can drastically reduce my carbon footprint, but it is a process that I am at least committed to. I think it is high time that all of us, including our leaders, take personal responsibility for reducing our carbon and ecological footprints regardless of the outcomes of the Copenhagen negotiations. In that way at least, we can exert some power in preventing catastrophic climate change.

Lance is Chief Whip of the parliamentary caucus and the National Policy Convenor. Email: lance@id.org.za

Ed’s note: Read Bending the Curve – Your guide to tackling climate change in South Africa - review on pg 15.

Corporate heroes

Big brands starting to do their bit and making changes towards ethical practices. climate wise

As a member of global insurance interest group Climate Wise, Santam is participating in and making its voice heard in the bigger picture of activism and action towards sustainable business practice and will participate in the forthcoming UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen in November. Through events like the Ecocentric Journey Conference, more executives and organisations are urged to take action before it is too late.

15 Years in a Day

shark savers

Despite being vital for maintaining marine balance, shark populations worldwide continue to decrease, mainly due to over fishing. In Palau, President Toribiong declared its waters a National Shark Sanctuary and banned all commercial fishing of sharks; this despite calls earlier in the year to make Palau’s waters available to large fisheries.

Founder of the Palau Shark Sanctuary, Dermot Keane, has no doubt that the petition organised by Shark Savers played an important part in this legislation. As a result an e-card thank you campaign was recently launched to thank the President.

Visit www.sharksavers.org to send a card, read more about Shark Savers’ work worldwide, including South Africa, and sign their petitions.

Through sponsors such as Old Mutual and Nedbank, this year’s Do It Day on 18 September saw 3 862 South African join hands to paint, plant, clean, read, teach, share and empower communities. It contributed a staggering 30 896 volunteer hours – a combined total of 15 years! GreaterGood South Africa is already planning for Do It Day 2010, a significant day in a significant year for the country. www.doitday.co.za Sustainable business practises do good

Metrofile, an information and records management company, maintains a strong sustainability and outreach policy, including donating a 15-seater bus to the Paarl School for Neurally Handicapped Children. Also committed to the environment, they recycle waste at the all of their premises, including 650 tons of paper every month, and offer the same service to all clients.

04 design

forest creations With three preceding generations of master craftsmen, sculptors, artists and boat builders, it may seem less than surprising that Grant and Craig Bramwell work with wood today.

Although Forest Creations was born in 1993, their respective journeys before finally joining forces permanently in 2006 were more circuitous, and included studies in analytical chemistry, travels around Europe and the US, and fatherhood.

Inspired by the natural curves, colours and shapes of trees, Grant, Craig and their team create unique products to the highest standard of craftsmanship. Their extensive ranges include décor items, furniture and fittings and architectural items, as well as timber supply and services, with every piece crafted in such a way as to enhance the colours and forms of

local and exotic timbers such as yellow wood, camphor, wild olive, cypress and more.

Even more impressive is that every item is made using only the wood from dead, fallen or storm-damaged trees.

Grant and Craig work from premises in Wetton, Cape Town, which they built over two years, almost entirely from recycled materials, including all the timber and roof sheeting.

Theirs is without a doubt an eco-friendly business in almost every possible way and proof that one does not have to harm the environment in the pursuit of beauty.

View the showroom at 1202 Bloemhof Street, Wetton or contact 021 703 7082. www.forestcreations.co.za

competition free folded furniture Design 2010 - Live

The Western Cape Furniture Initiative is calling for entries for Design 2010. This innovative competition aims to promote design as one of the key tools for a furniture manufacturer to improve its competitive edge and stimulate economic growth.

The theme is LIVE, which seeks to inspire a creative take on furniture that forms part of living environments, e.g. tables, chairs, couches, beds or any furniture that fulfils the living theme, be it indoors or out. Any material can be used, including wood, steel, plastic etc.

The competition has two categories: an open division for any individual, group or business in the Western Cape and a closed division for registered Western Cape architecture, design and cabinet making students.

Entries close 19 February 2010.

Finalists and awards will be presented at Decorex Cape Town from 24 to 27 April.

For full details and a downloadable entry form visit www.capefurniture.za.org or call Bernadette Isaacs on 021 448 4436

In an attempt to “counter mass superficiality and ecological absurdity”, Foldschool offers an innovative selection of children’s furniture – free of charge! Designed by Swiss-based architect Nicola Enrico Stäubli, the patterns, as well as detailed instructions and advice, for these sturdy, easy-to-assemble cardboard creations are available for download at www.foldschool.com.

The possibilities for use – from bedrooms to playschools - and decoration are endless. We applaud Foldschool’s philosophy of providing affordable products through smart design.

hot stuff

Design with a re-purpose

By Aslam Mahommed from Black Chilli Design

My design for Decorex 2009 was to show that sustainable design can be sleek and urban and prove that well designed products do not have to cost a fortune. Inspiration came from the vibrancy of Johannesburg, which reflects a cultural diversity as varied as its inhabitants.

In the design, simple, elegant lines fuse with a flow of organic shapes while the space depicts everyday life, rather than over-prepared “flair without flash” displays. The entire stand was designed by re-using items to create new, practical, eco-friendly pieces.

The table was a collaboration piece by Adaptations Décor and Black Chilli Design. The table top used to be an artwork by Adaptations, and the idea to turn it into a table was formed during informal discussions. Black Chilli designed the legs and glass panel system, which was recycled from old shop fitting doors that were going to be thrown out by the contractors.

Students at Greenside Design Centre designed the two cardboard chairs and with Black Chilli input were taken from concept to working prototype. Mia Jordon’s floral chair was inspired by a flower and spider web while

Jacques Eybers’ chair with red tubes explored a newer construction method.

The other six chairs were crates made from recycled plastic, the idea for which came from Joburg CBD hawkers who use the crates for a variety of purposes. In the design, they serve as dining chairs, with alternative uses as storage or stools.

The crockery was hand blown from recycled glass by South African glass blower Mike Hyam and each piece is unique, while the vase, formed from old fashion magazines, was designed by Lori, a second-year student at Greenside. She uses a plastic core in the centre.

The crate and wall cushions, designed and manufactured by Adaptations, are filled with a material made from recycled plastic bottles and covered in 100% polyester with a fused print. Custom orders are possible.

Black Chilli custom made the Joburg skyline artwork by using off-cuts of white vinyl from a signage company. The concept was to showcase the city through art.

19-21 Feb 2010

CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE show hours Friday 19 Feb Saturday 20 Feb Sunday 21 Feb

10h00 -18h00 10h00-18h00 10h00-17h00

admission R50.00 per person

Can you afford not to install Solar Power?

With a planned increase of 146% in electricity rates, visit the Green Home Exhibition and make your living space affordable and sustainable •

See the latest products and technology that will inspire you to embrace solar and wind energy

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Understand the new developments in LED lighting

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Minimize water use with state-of-the-art taps and shower heads

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Drip irrigation will be the future for your garden

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Garden furniture and decking from recycled plastics

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New ideas from composting and recycling solutions to eco wall paints and chemical free cleaning products

Be sure to visit the Green Home Exhibition and find unique solutions to green your home!

Be inspired & informed to make better choices at the 7th Natural & Organic Products Exhibition.

PRODUCTS EXHIBITION 2010

Call SE Shows & Events on 021 671 0935 for more information www.naturalandorganic.co.za

06 travel

going local responsibly By michele beatham

Do the terms fair trade, eco and sustainable tourism evoke images of primitive facilities far from civilisation, where cold-running water is considered a luxury and the closest thing to romance is sharing your sleeping bag with the local arachnid and insect populations?

Think again.

Whatever your idea of the perfect holiday – whether the sights and sounds of nature or the buzz of urban culture – it is possible to holiday in style and meet the criteria of responsible tourism.

While the Fair Trade movement dates back to Europe in the 1960s, formalisation in South Africa is far more recent, with Fair Trade in Tourism certification launched in 2002.

A year later the first four certified establishments were announced and as at September this year, the number had grown to 59.

So what exactly is Fair Trade in Tourism?

Fair Trade in Tourism South Africa (FTTSA), a non-profit organisation that promotes sustainable tourism development, endorses establishments that meet stringent criteria under six basic principles: fair share, respect, democracy, reliability, transparency and sustainability.

These include safe working conditions and practices, gender equality, protection of young workers, understanding and tolerance of socio-cultural norms, conservation of

biodiversity and natural resources, recycling consumption of water and energy, as well as reducing, reusing and recycling waste. Other criteria could include capacity building, partnerships, and support of historically disadvantaged entrepreneurs.

For travellers, FTTSA offers advice and tips for responsible travel, provide links to operators and activities and of course show case certified accommodation.

And when it comes to responsible travel, one of the easiest ways is to go local; reducing travelling distance reduces emissions, we experience the breathtaking beauty of our own country and our hard earned money directly benefits fellow citizens.

Certified establishments in any of six provinces include backpackers’ lodges such as Lebo’s in Soweto, Coffee Shack in the Eastern Cape or The Backpack in Cape Town.

If game viewing appeals, the Kruger Park offers a number of certified lodges, as does Amakhala in the Eastern Cape or Madikwe in North West Province.

Plan an interactive tour with Andulela, or one with no limits through AWOL. Opt for ocean adventures from Plettenberg Bay, or wander the mazes at Soekershof.

All of us seek peace whilst on holiday, but by travelling responsibly, we get the added benefit of peace of mind.

Visit www.fairtoursimsa.org for a full list of establishments and operators.

strange places While some consider language difference an unusual or exotic holiday, others demand nothing short of unique, unusual and downright mysterious. From www.aqiziam.com we share a few of their ten strangest places to visit.

The incredible terraced pools of Pamukkale in Turkey, now closed to tourists, were formed thousands of years ago when earthquakes created fractures that allowed hot springs to bring calcium carbonate-rich water to the surface. This chalkey material condensed as the water evaporated, giving rise to layer-upon-layer of Travertine.

The Blue Holes of the Bahamas, found on land and in the ocean, are deep cavities that are often entrances to large cave networks.

Aquatic creatures new to science have been reported by divers, as well as stalactites and stalagmites only formed in dry caves, considered proof that sea levels in the Bahamas rose substantially after the last ice age.

newsflash Human Polar Bear to swim on Mount Everest As part of a climate change education and awareness initiative, South Africa’s largest retailer, Pick n Pay, will partner with pioneer swimmer Lewis Gordon Pugh as he undertakes the first-ever symbolic swim in a lake under the summit of Mount Everest in April 2010. The aim of this key event is to raise public awareness internationally, in Africa and particularly in South Africa regarding the devastating impact of climate change.

Pugh, who is also known as the ‘Human Polar Bear’, will be the first person to swim in the freezing conditions of Mount Everest – at an altitude of 5 600 metres above sea level in a temperature of one degree celsius. This will indeed be his most challenging swim to date.

Remarkably he has pioneered more swims around famous landmarks than any other

swimmer in history, and is the only person to have completed a long-distance swim in every ocean in the world. Since being the first person to undertake a long-distance swim in the freezing waters of the North Pole, he has dedicated his life to campaigning for the protection of the environment.

Pugh says “The swim across the North Pole completely changed me. I feel incredibly invigorated; and believe I have earned the right to approach world leaders to tell them what’s happening up there. We can protect this place, we can cut our carbon emissions; we can leave this world in a better state than it was in when we received it.”

Currently more than one-billion people are dependent on water flowing from the Himalayas, and experts say the Himalayan glaciers are melting at an alarming rate. Glaciers in the Himalayas, a 2 400 kilometre (1 500 mile) range that sweeps through Pakistan, India, China, Nepal and Bhutan, provide headwaters for Asia’s nine largest rivers, a lifeline for the 1.3 billion people who live downstream.

point to ponder The spherical Moeraki boulders on Koekohe Beach on the Otago coast of New Zealand, formed on the sea floor from sedimentary deposits in the same way a pearl forms around a particle of sand can weigh several tons and be up to three metres wide.

Maori legend attributes their origin to the arrival of the first ancestors.

Green principles and sustainability are becoming essential elements in our polluted world.

One tree must be planted somewhere in exchange for each traveller on an aircraft.

our friend: the tree

The growing awareness around the importance of trees is encouraging a global drive to planting more of them in an attempt to offset carbon emissions. While they are the lungs of the planet the majesty of trees do more for us than just clean the air. Resting under the shade of an ancient silent tree brings peace to the most ragged traveller. In India sacred Banyan trees were planted along roadside to give shade to pilgrims on their journey. They are quiet reminders to pause along the road of life, to take shelter. These and many other precious trees worldwide are threatened because of development and the demand for paper products. Consider the wood for the trees and plant a tree for every major journey you take. Life in Balance has been journeying the country and abroad and here are a selection of trees that have stood out along the way...

The little known Island of Suqatra off the coast of Yemen is home to some of the most bizarrely-shaped plants, the most famous of which is the Dragon’s Blood Tree. The sap is used to make crystals that can allegedly be used as an aphrodisiac.

Baobab

Feverfew

Oak

Giant Sequoia, California, USA

Giant Bearded Ficus

flight flash Project Green, launched in May 2008 by Kulula and Food & Trees for Africa, aims to plant trees and grass to benefit disadvantaged communities and schools. The R838 800 raised so far allows Kulula passengers to help others by offsetting their travel carbon emissions.

travel 07

phantom forest Hanging out in the trees takes living to another level and is a delightful way to get away from it all. Knysna offers many charming ways to explore nature and Phantom Forest, which won leading ecotourism destination at the World Travel Awards two years ago and was recognised for excellence in ecological endeavour last year, is one.

Nestling within a private nature reserve of 147 ha, it consists of three biospheres: Afromontane Forest, Cape Coastal Fynbos and Estuarine wetland. Conservation is run and funded through a Trust, which serves as a model of preservation in an area of natural beauty. A professional member of Cape Nature Conservation sits on the board, ensuring the future of this reserve.

Before building began, alien vegetation was cleared by hand and large Australian gum, blackwood and wattle felled, planked and kiln dried to create beautiful flooring, chairs, tables

By melissa baird

and doors. Strong eco-friendly methods were used to construct the ‘tree-suites’ and all small plants were removed from under the decks for later re-planting. Pine and poplar became roofs, decks and supports and end-cut ‘wavy’ pine planks became roof shingles. At the time of building these planks were ‘throw away’ and now have new value!

Poplar trees are massively thirsty and have little commercial value, but farmers in the neighbouring Little Karoo were willing to sell live trees to the builders, which were, after debarking and cleaning, turned into roof beams. This timber seems to be unpalatable to bugs, can be used ‘green’, and gets harder and stronger each year. The wood used in this way creates beautiful ‘hats’ for the tree-suites, a win-win situation!

Water is recycled, pumped back to reed beds and filtered naturally back into the ground as clean, re-usable water for all, flora and

fauna included. Only bio-degradable cleaning products are used and water quality is regularly checked and tested. Apparently it’s good enough to be sold as bottled water!

The policy of ‘touch the earth lightly’ is taken literally here. Over one kilometre of boardwalks minimises any impact on the ecology of the forest, and often wildlife is seen using the boardwalks to move easily around their habitat!

The principle of sustainable development is an ongoing process through community involvement, with training throughout the lodge, sending newly acquired skills into the marketplace. Buying organic produce from small growers is another important aspect of empowerment.

Seriously good work is being done so that you can relax and in the silence listen to the trees, as if whispering voices are imparting secrets through the leaves. Phantom Forest does whisper a special magic. Expect to touch your senses and restore your spirit in a wonderland of nature.

The legend of the

marula tree

In a land commonly held to be the ‘cradle of humankind’ grows the venerable Marula tree.

Steeped in legend and tradition, this wild tree is revered by African tribes as the marriage tree under whose fertile branches many an African princess has been married.

Indigenous to sub-equatorial Africa. these wild, uncultivated, unique trees, with their erect trunks and rounded crowns are characterized by grey mottled bark and their medicinal qualities.

Only the female Marula tree bears the succulent and rare flavoured fruit which ripens at the height of the African summer, filling the air with an intense tropical fragrance.

Tribal tradition has it that a woman is more likely to become pregnant after eating Marula fruit and powdered bark is used to determine the gender. The tree is often regarded as the spiritual centre for local villagers who gather under its shade-bearing boughs.

With the desertification of Africa happening at an ever increasing rate, the conservation of these trees takes centre stage and on how vital these trees are to the local communities who derive an income from its fruit.

08 living

The great goodness of

Goedgedacht

By melissa baird

What do a fog harvester, olive trees and wonder bags all have in common? They are either products or projects of the Goedgedacht Trust, which operates from a 1704 farm of that name on the Kasteelberg in the Cape. The spirit and vision of Anne and Peter Templeton has slowly and surely been transforming the landscape and positively changing the lives of many of the rural children who live there.

Goedgedacht is possibly best known for its Olive Grove Peace Plan which has enabled the planting over 11 000 olive trees. These trees were bought by South Africans and international visitors to the farm as reminders of any of the significant life events we get to enjoy like births and marriages. They were also chosen to mark the passing of time and satisfy the need for a legacy. Gifts and memories aside the longer term vision contained a gift for mother earth and for the farm worker community growing out of its association with the farm. Their delicious range of olives and olive oils are produced from the Olive Peace Grove marketed under the Goedgedacht label and the oil is so good and the fruit inspired dressings so unique, that Pick ‘n Pay – with the support of the Ackerman foundation is now giving up valuable shelf space in their stores to stock produce from the farm as well as other delicious produce from small farmers around the country. The profits from these products are re-absorbed by the Goedgedacht Trust and this enables a sustainable operation that keeps on growing. There are no ‘flash in the pan’ ideas here. Anne is a no nonsense lady, who gets things done and is not in the habit of giving up.

As we have been saying for some time, one person can make a difference but here is an example of just how much a collective can achieve. Here is a living example of how one farm can make a difference. Goedgedacht is

an example of a public benefit organisation , which basically means they are a collective of concerned individuals who – while they were talking about how to change the world, got out there and started doing it, one hectare at a time. Seventeen years ago, the wreck of a farm was donated to the Goedgedacht Trust and Peter and Anne began began replacing the vines with olives as a climate change crop.

They have now added kiwi fruit, figs and pomegranates to their repertoire as well as lavender and aloes and the cheekily named num nums, an indigenous fruit bearing bush.

When they arrived in the region the evidence that surrounded them of seriously disadvantaged children made them look for ways to help the children of farm workers escape generations of poverty. The Path out of Poverty is a model development programme that looks at health, education, personal development and a love of the planet in its key approach to upliftment. Two hundred and fifty children have already been a part of this programme and currently there are 1000 children enjoying the support and nourishment of POP. The Trust tirelessly supports a very disadvantaged community group and for the first time ever, the pre-children school have a school of their own to enjoy, helping to break some of the key realities of poverty; lack of proper nutrition and enabling educational stimulus.

The POP programme is already eleven years old and some of the children have been with the programme from 3 years old and they show remarkable show remarkable confidence and ability as teenagers. Whilst I was chatting to Anne, listening

project 90 x 2030 The vision – to motivate the people of South Africa to contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 90% by the year 2030. All that needs to happen is habits have to go out the window and individual responsibility has to become a key driving force in getting the collective to change too. Five steps to get you going: Conduct an energy audit in your home. Upper income groups share a collective carbon footprint far higher than that of low income groups, yet these are the people most at risk from the effects of climate change.

Improve energy efficiency. Use less automated systems to manipulate the temperatures in doors. If is cold dress warmly. If its hot, handle it or use a hand held fan. Don’t turn on all the lights and use energy efficient light bulbs Reduce waste, recycle and start your own compost bin.

Car pool, walk and plan trips to be as energy efficient as possible. www.90x2030.org.za. Read Bending the Curve (reviewed on pg 15)

to the birds and occasional buzz of the engineer putting in a solar panel, a young collector from the Savings Group called by to collect Anne’s daily contribution, and the total is kept aside for a happy day.

Looking ahead to the onset of much drier and hotter conditions for this region the planting of olives has been a key focus, especially for its revenue generating opportunities and the effect on the land. Olive trees are important carbon emission absorbers but it seems the Spekboom bush’ is taking centre stage for now and Peter and Anne are doing their best to promote its planting. This indigenous, easy growing bush is just one of the conversation points of our meeting and Peter assures me the Spekboom is a marvel of nature because it sucks up more carbon dioxide than any other tree. Elephants also seem to be drawn to taking care of the bigger bushes and are known to prune them almost delicately as opposed to uprooting them but don’t let a goat near one, goats eat everything!

Climate change is happening and is a hotly debated topic, but the Templetons are not waiting around for surprises. Their climate change crops project - 3C’s - is preparing small farmers for climate change and helping them discover drought resistant crops other than olives. They have set up a fog harvester to show how water vapour from mist can be collected and re-used. They are creating a climate change walking path to further demonstrate the effects of a hotter climate and in their quest for zero carbon emissions, the farm runs off its own gas, thanks to the biodigester and solar panels are on all farm cottage roofs.

To participate in the Goedgedacht Olive Peace Grove Plan contact jeannegoedgedacht@telkomsa.net or call 022 482 4369. Visit www.goedgedacht.org.za

eco-doodle A new handy journal complete with 2010 calendar and extensive resource guide, including hints and tips to guide you on your green journey. An ideal gift for friends, family or yourself. Five different designs to choose from.

Cost: R150 excluding postage Order yours now!

Email michael@lifeinbalance.co.za

farm 215 fynbos reserve sustainable & luxurious accommodation in the southern overberg

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food 09

eat smart for StreetSmart

R5 may not buy a loaf of bread but it can make a huge difference to the lives of thousands of children. However, while money given to a homeless child may provide some sort of immediate relief, it doesn’t change the fact that he/she is homeless, with little or no chance of changing this in the future.

All we need to do to help is eat out. StreetSmart South Africa, a non-profit organisation under the patronage of Archbishop Desmond Tutu, works with participating restaurants to raise money for established charities with the experience and facilities to help children living on the streets and offer them a viable future. It has raised R1 939 000 to date.

Participating restaurants display a StreetSmart card on the table informing patrons that a voluntary R5 donation will be added to their bill, with the option to give more (or not at all).

As Bishop Tutu says, “This is a simple idea resulting in restaurant patrons feeling good about giving, restaurants feeling good about contributing to society and homeless children benefiting.”

Visit www.streetsmartsa.org.za or call 021 418 0621 for participating restaurants, or ask your favourite restaurant to sign up.

zingy dressings

seasonal eating

world egg day

Made from fruit-infused vinegar, this range offers tantalising flavours that leap about in your mouth and add a whole new dimension to salads for summer. Try the lime dressing over a potato salad or the pineapple dressing over a carrot and cabbage salad. The strawberry dressing transforms a tomato salad.

They taste so good you don’t even need a salad to charm them, I ended up with a teaspoon at a time marvelling at the flavours I can only imagine how good home-made pickled onions would taste with one of these vinegars.Yum. Available at Pick ‘n Pay stores.

Recipe supplied by Brad Hale from Wild Organics

Rice Noodles & Sugar Snap Peas

Did you know?

It takes about 2 400 litres of water to produce one 150g hamburger patty?

Ingredients Oil for shallow frying 5 shallots, thinly sliced (or red onions) Flour for dusting 1 clove garlic, peeled & crushed Lemon juice - just a squirt 2 tbsp soft brown sugar 1 tbsp fish sauce 180g thin rice noodles 3 carrots, peeled and shredded 100g sugar snap peas, sliced lengthways 3 spring onions, sliced 1 small red chilli, sliced 15g coriander 15g mint

Method Heat oil in a wok.

Toss shallots in a little flour, shake off excess and fry for around 1 minute until golden.

Drain on paper towels, sprinkle with salt, set aside.

Mix garlic, lemon juice, sugar and fish sauce.

Put noodles in a large bowl, pour boiling water over and leave them for 1 minute or until just tender then rinse under cold water.

Drain on kitchen towel and put back in bowl.

Add carrot, peas, spring onion, chilli and herbs.

Pour the dressing over, mix and sprinkle the shallots over.

Kwalapa

People around the world celebrated World Egg Day in many weird & wonderful ways

by Wendy Harvie

‘Activist’, in conjunction with ‘Compassion in World Farming SA’, staged a provocative installation at UCT with women dressed in egg-yolk-yellow swimsuits, inside cages, holding egg shaped placards, calling for an end to battery eggs in South Africa.

50% of eggs in the UK are currently free range and in 2012 EU legislation will ban battery cages for egg laying hens, meanwhile only 3% of eggs in South Africa are free range. Why is this?

Exactly what are you eating when you sit down to that delicious egg breakfast? Ask the question why are battery eggs cheaper, instead of why are free range eggs more expensive?

Conscious eaters the world over are calling for a stop to battery egg farming and for supermarkets & restaurants to sell and use only free range eggs in all their products.

Consumers do have power but we forget it as we operate on automatic most of the time.

Sign the petition and only buy free range eggs. www.activist.co.za/campaigns/2009/ ethicaleggs.php There is a 2nd petition for Woolworths customers - asking Woolworths to only use free range eggs in all their pre-prepared food. www.activist.co.za/campaigns/2009/ woolworths.php

Locavore to the core

Sheltered under the arms of a giant bearded ficus on the wooded Montebello Design Estate in Newlands, Kwalapa (Xhosa for local) is a new organic wholefoods store, deli and food design centre out to make a difference.

Kwalapa supports the growth of urban agriculture and are actively involved in its development though Kwalapa Development Initiative. Self-described as “locavores to the core” they aim to supply as much produce as possible from local farmers and studios.

Kwalapa is open Mondays to Saturdays, 8:30am to 4:30pm. email emily@kwalapa.com or patrick@kwalapa.com.

10 wine & coffee

La Motte

More than just a wine farm

The La Motte Nabot farm in the Walker Bay coastal region has been developed as an organic production operation, eliminating the use of pesticides and chemicals in winemaking. Nabot’s organically-grown grapes are reserved for the production of a Sauvignon Blanc wine that is a consistent award winner and of course absolutely delicious to drink.

However it is not only their range of La Motte Pierneef Sauvignon Blancs that are organic. The farm in Franschhoek produces vines as well as essential oils and these oils were certified organic by SGS South Africa

barista

Take notice of the excellent Barista Pinotage 2009 As delectable as the aroma of fresh coffee is in the morning, the temptation to replace the morning cup with a glass of Barista Pinotage was somewhat heightened after tasting it for the first time, this is a wine you could wake up to and it tastes as goods its aroma.

Val de Vie, situated on the Berg River near Paarl, has launched the maiden vintage of their ‘coffee pinotage’, the Barista Pinotage 2009. And the man who conceived and created the first ‘coffee pinotage’, Bertus ‘Starbucks’ Fourie, is convinced that the Barista Pinotage 2009 is the top ‘coffee pinotage’ he has yet produced.

The burst of intense, rich coffee and chocolate aromas with ripe nuances of mulberry, plum and Maraschino cherries are enhanced by sweet aromas of vanilla and butterscotch. This foodfriendly wine with its ripe luscious tannins is ready to be enjoyed now. “Barista Pinotage is the most controversial style of pinotage in the world. Most people crave it once they’ve tasted it. The wine does not speak of terroir, as oak plays the dominant role, accounting for its coffee and chocolate flavours – the richness of coffee beans and the smoothness of creamy chocolate.”

Bertus produced that Barista Pinotage 2009 in the Robertson

on 28th Feb 2009. They harvest geranium oil, buchu, thyme, lavender and Cape snowbush used mostly in the perfume industry but you can also buy a few bottles for your own use when you visit the farm.

Disa orchids are cultivated on the farm in Franschhoek they have successfully cultivated new hybrids in specifically designed greenhouses, creating a rare explosion of colour. There are approximately 125 known species of disas and the best-known one is the disa uniflora. The sole pollinator of the disa uniflora is the majestic meneris tulbaghia or Mountain Pride butterfly.

The best season to acquire disas from the farm is from mid-October until mid-February.

know your beans RWANDA MARABA BOURBON – juicy, sweet lemon with cocoa and red cherry tones by sandy barlow

Winery cellar, using pinotage grapes from the Robertson district only. In his research he discovered that the pinotage grapes from Robertson, with their vines grown in dark, deep-red soils, yield the best grapes for this style of wine.

Where do the coffee aromas come from?

This is the magic and the mystery. What we do know for certain is they are a combination of the effects of a specific yeast strain, specific toasting, specific oak type and of course, pinotage grapes. Further than that he won’t elaborate because of course there are some trade secrets, which, in fact, have now been patented. But the remarkable thing is that only pinotage grapes produce these coffee flavours.”

What’s in a name?

The name ‘barista’, originated from Italian and is unashamedly pure coffee nomenclature. A barista is one who is highly skilled in coffee preparation, with a comprehensive understanding of coffee and coffee blending. Baristas are known for their signature styles of coffee. The term ‘barista’ has been expanded to one who might be called a ‘coffee sommelier’. This is most appropriate because the name coffee is derived from the ancient Arabic phrase ‘qahwat al-búnn’, meaning ‘wine of the bean’.

And in ancient Eritrea, where coffee was probably first discovered, the Tigrinyan (language) word for coffee was ‘búnn’ also meaning ‘wine of the bean’.

Visit Val de Vie’s tasting room from Monday to Saturday: 09h00 to 17h00, Sundays and public holidays: 10h00 to 16h00. Cellar tours by appointment only. Walks, hikes and mountain bike trails are offered. The Sabrage Restaurant, serving Italian food, opens soon. www.valdevie.co.za

!s bottle of IN W u io c re p away ne

e o ge to giv mail We have a Pinota E t r. is e r d a a B 2009 Town re h ky Cape lance.co.za wit c lu a to inba t line. c fe li je b @ u le s miche y” in the er 2009 giveawa Novemb “Barista close 25 s ie r t n E

While Rwanda has grown coffee commercially for many years, it is not until recently that they’ve produced beans of gourmet quality.

Rwanda Maraba Bourbon, from the Abahuzamugambi Bakawa Cooperative in the Maraba district, has changed this by recently earning the prestigious Cup of Excellence Award (www.cupofexcellence.com).

This single origin coffee is produced from beans harvested from a rare coffee tree variety, the Arabica Bourbon. The trees produce a lower yield than many modern varieties and are seldom grown today, but the taste is wonderfully smooth with a sweet fruity nature and rich full body. The beans are handpicked, washed in mountain spring water and fully sun-dried.

Maraba Bourbon represents Rwanda’s rapid ascent into one of the most quality conscious countries in East Africa. The Rwanda Cup of Excellence competition mobilised farmers throughout Rwanda to produce exemplary coffees to meet the rigorous standards so that Rwanda was the first country in Africa to conduct this distinguished competition.

Roasters have worked closely with the United States Agency for International Development to develop a sustainable partnership and promote international marketing under Fairtrade certification. Since its launch in 2003, Rwanda Maraba Bourbon has helped fundamentally change the local district with a medical centre, school, bank and even hairdresser where there was once only despair.

Purchasing a bag of Seattle’s Rwandan whole bean coffee benefits these amazing farmers who, while still recovering from the genocide all those years ago, are now producing some of the finest beans in the world.

We continue to offer long-term support to the co-operative at Maraba so that the farmers can generate a sustained income.

wellness 11

food matters

What you eat is more important than you think!

By JP Le Roux

We live in a mysterious world, presently dealing with many ecological, social, political and personal difficulties. Our ability to meet these challenges with sensitivity, intelligence, courage, grace and power is what will ensure not just our survival, but our fundamental happiness together here. what does this have to do with food?

Food is about survival, sensual pleasure, bodily health. In our growing awareness, we also ask how our diet affects global ecosystems? What is the “footprint” of our lunch?

Another view is: Our abilities to observe, think, feel, communicate and act arise within the biology of our body-mind systems. We are what we eat. Literally! Our blood, bones, muscles, organs, brain tissue and enzyme systems are created from the disassembly and reassembly of components of our diet.

There is more going on, like alchemical transmutation of elements, bacterial creation of nutrients and biological changes caused by our thought, but fundamentally it is food that is being reformed into everything that we are.

Including our neurochemistry. Our levels and ratios of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, acetylcholine, serotonin and many others have a profound (almost absolute) effect on consciousness, affecting our moods, thoughts and balance. They govern how we feel and function in our relationships. Anyone who has been drunk, painfully hungover, stoned or otherwise “adjusted” by any number of recreational or pharmaceutical mood drugs (including caffeine, sugar and nicotine) knows how profoundly we are affected by the simple forces of chemistry!

If we wish to know the world, make good decisions, communicate with subtlety, and act with strength, compassion and wisdom then we must become responsible for what we take into ourselves.

What creates the optimum bodily terrain for the most pristine and artful expression of consciousness?

• The cleanest water possible – preferably from a natural spring or mountain stream, or secondarily, well water, rain water, or re-energised and re-structured RO filtered or distilled water. Hydrate yourself deeply everyday. The brain is about 80% water.

• A highly-mineralized, natural, predomi nantly plant-based diet. Organically grown.

Never sprayed with pesticides, herbicides or fungicides. Never irradiated, pasteurised, or homogenized. No junk. Ideally eat non hybridised heirloom varieties grown in rich soils full of natural compost, earthworms and soil bacteria. Leafy greens are our perfect food. Highly alkaline, they will balance our bodily pH which is necessary

for proper functioning. Eat maximally raw. Heating food above 40° C destroys enzymes, placing biochemical load on the body and decreasing capacity for neurotransmitter synthesis.

• Wholefood-based natural supplementation – for removal from the body of what should not be there and for deeply nourishing the body with everything that should be there.

Ideally whole, living, enzymatically active and energetically and bio-electrically living.

Not dead, inorganic, isolated, inert, syn thesized or complexed with toxic excipients.

Life is only begotten by that which is itself living. To create life your food and your

supplementation must be full of life-force.

Make delicious raw food smoothies with organic greens, highest quality raw super- food powders, good water and a little fruit for sweetness. Maximise these perfectly complete meals in your life.

• Clean air, breathed deeply, in forests, walked barefoot. Regularly!

It is very simple. Eating this way will regenerate your life. And it will feel very good.

Pleasurable feeling in the body is a primary marker for deep levels of health. And when we feel good, and the mind is clear and the heart is open, then we can more ably create the kind of world we choose to live in.

Get busy livin’ or get busy dyin’ – Morgan Freeman in the Shawshank Redemption Blink. And you miss it. A bit like life really.

It is also the title of a great book by Malcolm Gladwell in which he talks about the power of thinking, without thinking. We all have one unique talent that we are the undisputed world class champs of; no one can even compete with us on it; it would be pointless. Some are clearer than others and we need to find or hone what ours is.

He gives examples: a relationship counselor who can look at a video of a couple and determine whether they will still be together in seven years; a tennis coach who can accurately predict a double foot fault at the highest level with similar accuracy; a very rare occurrence.

So, what’s your “Blink?” In the last edition I mentioned the power of “Doing what you say gets you what you want.”

I think that it becomes a lot easier to

do what you say if you are clear on your unique talent; it becomes your guide, your vision, your values; all is clear.

To aid your discovery I can recommend reading Marcus Buckingham; one of his books is “Now, discover your strengths.”

Also, check out Wealth Dynamics www.xlwealthdynamics.org and take the wealth profile test. It will help you determine the best way to build wealth and in so doing find your unique talent.

Some questions and tips that might help you: What would you do if you did not need the money? What drives you crazy with frustration and if you could, you would change it? What gets you totally excited? Ask your parents and close friends what they think your unique talent is. The answers may surprise you!

Share your discovery. I would love to hear from you.

Visit www.siekin.com, email si@siekin.com or call 082 565 0765

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While these principles might seem novel, they are in fact as old as the earth itself. We are nourished by whole foods, not isolated

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For Optimum Mental and Physical Performance

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Soma Whole Life Elements supply the highest quality health supplements in the world - that are totally natural, 100% organic, completely raw, made exclusively with whole, living foods and produced through a process called Pure Manufacturing.

chemicals, so if we choose to supplement, which is generally required in these times of our compromised and minerally depleted food supply (and our tendency to not eat optimally all the time), we should use supplements based on living food sources to do so.

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12 products happy bodies This range consists of everyday personal hygiene products that will leave you feeling naturally revitalized and fresh. Great care has been taken in formulating products that are luxurious and effective whilst using the highest quality natural and certified organic ingredients. They do not contain petrochemical, parabens, synthetic fragrances, aluminium or animal products and the range is endorsed

by Beauty Without Cruelty.

Products include: Body Wash (250ml) R65.

Body Lotion (250ml) R76. Shampoo (250ml) R85. Conditioner (250ml) R85. Shave Créme with cooling effect (150ml) R68. Crisp Mint toothpaste with Xylitol (100ml) R40. Living Eco roll-on deodorant 75ml fragranced R59, fragrance-free: R54. Available at selected healthshops nationwide. Visit online store at www.purebeginnings.co.za or call 031 764 4049

did you know?

Certified Organic Ingredients are ingredients that are

grown without the use of synthetic fertilisers, insecticides, herbicides and fungicides and are approved by international organic certification organisations. You are assured that they are non toxic and the environment has not been affected in their production

vegan dog?

TrionZ

Prepared with great insight into the nutritional requirements for human or pet, meat or vegan, Vondis have created dog food that is totally balanced and nutritious and will leave your best friend healthier and stronger than ever. Some of the ingredients include brown rice, millet, lentils, peas, barley, wheat germ, rolled oats, beetroot, butternut, sweet potato, carrots and a variety of freshly picked herbs. Calcium gluconate, zinc gluconate, taurine, yeast, lecithin, kelp, dandelion and vitamin C are added extras.

Available from selected stockists in Cape Town and Gauteng. www.vondis.co.za

TrionZ is the worlds first sport therapy band.

These magnetic bracelets combine medicalgrade magnets and minus-ion producing minerals to increase blood flow and circulation. They also counteract the effects of excessive positive-ion build up from physical activity, exposure to UV rays and prolonged exposure to electronic equipment. www.trionz.co.za

Vitaderm Vitaderm’s five Aromatic Complexes are the ultimate in skin conditioning, can be slotted into any skin care regime and are especially beneficial at change-of-seasons. 100% preservative–free and plant-based, with a base of grape seed, almond, marula and macadamia oils (skin type depending), they may be applied over or mixed with one’s usual day or night cream. Essential oils help increase micro-circulation thereby oxygenating the skin, leaving the complexion soft and supple, with renewed vitality. Choose from Soothing, Regenerating, Clarifying, Stimulating or Hydrating.

Visit www.vitaderm.co.za or call 021 914 3777

wonder oil EcoProducts organic baobab seed oil is easily absorbed into the skin and does not leave an oily residue. It is known for its Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids and is a rich and nourishing oil with excellent skin rejuvenating properties. It softens, encourages regeneration of cells and improves the elasticity of the skin.

As a tissue oil, it can be apply to scars and stretch marks and it is safe for pregnant women. The oil also has healing properties and is being used by sufferers of eczema, psoriasis, sun spots, scaly skin disorder and skin cancer.

EcoProducts baobab Oil is available in 5ml, 30ml, 50ml and 100ml glass amber bottles.

Available at selected health shops around the country. See www.ecoproducts.co.za for a stockist near you.

what’s news?

Award-winning designer Lungi Sokhulu’s stunning range of fashion accessories and décor items is back in Cape Town! Crafted from old newspapers, her sought after designs are durable, heat and water resistant and perfect for those who appreciate unique, handmade, functional and eco-friendly products. Available at The Green Shop at Cape Quarter, de Waterkant or online at www.thegreenshop.co.za

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PHTHALATES, absorbed through the skin, act as hormone disruptors, especially risky during pregnancy. All perfumes contain varying concentrations.

Cosmetics containing ‘parfum’ are also affected. Vitaderm has never used artificial fragrances.

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CYCLOMETHICONE and its derivative cyclopentasiloxane are light and increasingly popular due to the velvety after-feel, despite concern that both can penetrate the dermis. Research is underway to determine the toxicity. Evidence already shows that cyclopentasiloxane is toxic to our waterways.

Although not considered harmful as such, Vitaderm excludes the following two ingredients due to concerns: MINERAL OIL, a by-product of the petrol refining process that often leads to dehydration and sensitivity.

ISOPROPYL MYRISTATE, a popular thickener, has suspected comedogenic (pore-clogging) effects, especially in teenagers.

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products 13 no paper or CDs

If you’re wondering what to do with all your back up CDs and have experienced finding the crucial one lost, just when you need it most then this may be for you. Save yourself the freak out and consider that if IronTree users weren’t already saving their data online, there would be a pile of CDs 1 ½ times as high as Table Mountain in a year!

Online back up saves on the manufacture of CDs, DVDs, Magnetic Tapes, labels etc and in addition tape devices, removable hard drives and other backup devices need never be bought or recycled.

Register online for a 14 day free trial at www.irontree.co.za/lifeinbalance

happy feet Lovely to walk in and extremely light these are super shoes for outdoor adventurers. The outsoles provide shock absorption whilst the comfortable foot bed also offers essential support and it is fully washable. The microfibre fleece used in many Terrasoles® styles is manufactured from recycled materials. The cotton used is organic, and the canvas, cork and rubber are recycled. The packaging and all Terrasole® promotional materials are also made from recycled materials, using soy inks.

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our stamp of approval

100% recycled levis

Made from post-industrial cotton so no new cotton was needed to be grown these jeans are more than a little different. Even the buttons and rivets are recycled so basically old has been transformed into new. Clever Levi’s and great to know an ‘old’ brand can certainly learn new tricks.

Available at selected Levi’s stores. www.levi.co.za

Pro Nature The ideal kit to ‘jazz up’ your outdoor furniture or decking for the summer!

The box contains a 100% natural plant oil based furniture cleaner and sealer plus all the tools you need to apply the products!

Life in Balance readers can take advantage of this special offer. Kits cost R120 which includes free shipping to your doorstep! Offer valid until 31 December.

To order email orders@pronature.co.za with the subject: ‘LIB special’ or phone 0860 105 299. Visit www.pronature.co.za for further product details.

LIB gives a big thumbs up to Dr Hauschka’s Intensive Treatment 04. It truly is a miracle mist transforming dull skin overnight.

! n i w

d re Woo oNatu . Email r P 5 ve way We ha a give a e.co.z ets to s la e r a a b nc C ” in y e f a li eaw le@ miche oNature giv tries r n P E with “ t line. subjec mber 2009 in the e v 25 No close

Terrasoles® retail from R699 to R799, and are available at the following Outdoor Warehouse branches: CT: Willowbridge (021) 914 1357 JHB: Centurion: (012) 663 1450, Boksburg: (011) 823 3110

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Apologies!

In issue 6 we said how much we liked it but then showed you the wrong product. This is the correct picture in case you were confused.

Our new website will be going live within the next two weeks and the electronic newsletter, which is a mini version of the paper, has been re-designed. Sign up to receive your double dose of lifestyle news and we will give the first 10 people who do a hemp shopping bag and eco-doodle. Send your requests to michele@lifeinbalance.co.za

14 art & books

paper passions It was her artist mother that sowed the seeds of Cathy Stanley’s passionate love for paper – a passion that has seen her involved in all aspects of paper making, at many levels, from assisting in tertiary education to establishing ‘craft’ projects and of course her personal journey as an artist.

Her stunning, abstract works result from a constant exploration of the physical nature of paper, its textures, surface design and forming processes, resulting in pieces that are

modern yet timeless, and reflecting a refined internalised sense of colour and idealistic beauty.

The immediacy and translucency of the colours, obtained through dyes, model and express light. An instinctive colourist, Cathy composes living chords of colour that retain the beauty and original freshness of colour.

Cathy believes her work should be perceived purely aesthetically rather than searched for meaning, although it does carry

inferred meanings through the heritage of paper and the history of its invention and use.

It is the works themselves, their scale and lightness, their placement, that bestow a sense of purity and emotional force, resulting in durable, original and affordable works of art.

While Cathy prefers working alone on her pieces, she is helped with the tea light lanterns and paper strings by Brigit Pyoos and Veronika, local Xhosa ladies.

on the shelf

Cathy’s work is on display at the Artisan Gallery, 344 Florida Road, Morningside, Durban, www.artisan.co.za and Cathy is contactable via the gallery on 031 312 4364.

Bending the Curve Edited by Robert Zipplies From conferences to dinner tables, the topic of climate change is becoming increasingly unavoidable. It’s not difficult to explain why – climate change is happening. And we know it, which is why this book is both timely and important. Aimed at those with a special interest in the subject, be it specific or general, Bending the Curve is a comprehensive and accessible reference that answers all manner of questions about climate change. It has been written with South African conditions in mind and gives both individuals and organisations practical advice on how to interpret and deal with this serious environmental issue. Each chapter is written by various specialists in the relevant field, and their contributions range from speculation on the impacts of human population growth, migration and refugees to facts about greenhouse gases and biofuels. ISBN: 978-0-620-42572-8 Purchase it in bookstores or online at www. africageographic.com (special price R175, including VAT and delivery in South Africa).

R3 million so much to save for South Africa’s best photos

In a bid to bring awareness to the importance of photography in media and society and inspire passion for the art, the largest photographic competition ever is open for entries until 30 March 2010 and with a prize pool of R3 million, the Africa Photographic Awards (APA) is deemed to be the largest and most prestigious of its kind.

All proceeds will benefit The Tomorrow Trust, an independent trust offering vital support structures to HIV/Aids orphans, assisting them through primary school, right up to tertiary education.

Full details can be found at www.africaphotographicawards.co.za.

Entry fees start at R10 per entry for learners to R200 for portfolio entries.

The multi-award winning Dave Matthews Band has a deep and long-standing commitment to environmental and other issues.

In fact, their first public appearance, before they even had a name, was at the Earth Day concert in 1991. In 2006 the Dave Matthews Band announced their plan to offset 100% of CO2 emissions from their touring activities since 1991, with NativeEnergy and Clean Air-Cool Planet.

During their 2008 tour, the band encouraged fans to reduce their carbon footprint by 8.5 million pounds – by carpooling to the

Free CD download

show, recycling and more – and this year, already famous for giving away their music, announced the So Much To Save campaign, whereby those who recycled at the show would receive a download code for the So Much to Save 2009 album.

Those unable to attend were not ignored.

All you need to do to download the album is visit www.somuchtosave.org, commit to any one (or all) of five simple eco-actions and follow the instructions.

For more on the band, their work and music visit www.davematthewsband.com

The Wind Farm Scam

By John Etherington The spectre of global warming and the political panic surrounding it has triggered a goldrush for renewable energy sources without an open discussion of the merits and drawbacks of each. In The Wind Farm Scam Dr Etherington argues that in the case of wind power the latter far outweigh the former. Wind turbines cannot generate enough energy to reduce global CO2 levels to a meaningful degree; what’s more wind power is by nature intermittent and cannot generate a steady output, necessitating back-up coal and gas power plants that significantly negate the saving of greenhouse gas emissions.

In addition to the inefficacy of wind power there are ecological drawbacks, including damage to habitats, wildlife and the farfrom-insignificant aesthetic drawback of the assault upon natural beauty and the pristine landscape, which wind turbines entail.

Dr Etherington argues that wind power has been, and is being, excessively financed at the cost of consumers who have not been consulted, nor informed that this effective subsidy is being paid from their bills to support an industry that cannot be cost efficient or, ultimately, favour the cause it purports to support.

ISBN-10: 1905299834 ISBN-13: 9781905299836

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To advertise here email: michele@lifeinbalance.co.za Tel: 021 788 1733 or 076 270 6658

Mother Nature Products Great products for green moms & babies!

Shop Online for Natural & Organic Products Food, Health, Beauty and Personal Care Good for You. Good for the Earth.

www.greengrocer.co.za

Serving independent health and wholefood stores and delis with a wide range of certified organic food products.

Trade enquiries: 031 765 4370 or info@goodlife.co.za

life in balance

your monthly green solution to natural & eco-friendly living

what’s happening?

7 & 8 NOVEMBER Johannesburg Summer Food Festival: sample delicious delicacies and premium wines while the kids are kept occupied at the children’s entertainment area at the Zoo Lake Sports Club Fields. Celebrate the best of what the country has to offer, including music and entertainment. www.jhbfoodfest.co.za, 011 326 4861

See stockists or agents or download order sheet at www.mothernatureproducts.co.za Tel: 021 782 9117

Does your dog itch?

We have the solution...

Natural Pet Remedies www.vondis.co.za (021) 439 1784

Laibach proudly presents The Ladybird, a SGS certified, organic red wine. A unique individual expression of organically grown fruit combined with the art of our winemaker.

TEL: +27 (0) 21 88 44 511 FAX: +27 (0) 21 88 44 848 info@laibachwines.com www.laibachwines.com

28 – 30 OCTOBER The Western Cape Wetlands Forum hosts the 2009 South African Wetlands Indaba at Club Mykonos. Anyone with an interest in wetlands, from any perspective, is encouraged to attend and participate. Contact philippa@wessa. co.za for more information. http://fantasiaconferences.co.za/newsletter.htm 29 OCTOBER – 1 NOVEMBER Gugulethu, one of Cape Town’s vibiest townships invites you to come and have a jol: taste over 300 wines; celebrate the township; shop for township art & craft at the iTownship Wine Fest at Vukuhambe Centre adjacent to the new Gugulethu Square Mall. www.itownshipwine fest.co.za, jeannie@itownshipwinefest.co.za, 021 424 8149 29 OCTOBER - 1 NOVEMBER Eat, be entertained, learn, shop, sip and sample the good things in life at the Good Food & Wine Show at the Coca Cola Dome, Jo’burg.

Entrance ticket entitles you to a wonderful range of free food and wine samplings, as well as fantastic prizes, giveaways and special offers. www.gourmetsa.co.za, 021 797 4500 30 0CTOBER – 1 NOVEMBER The inaugural Khayelitsha Festival celebrates Khayelitsha’s 25th Anniversary with entertainment, a Youth Expo, fashion shows, and a host of activities and promotions for all ages. www.khayelitshafestival.co.za, toby@adelelucas.co.za, 011 646 5630

DR HAUSHCKA THERAPIST Organic & Holistic Facial Treatments Therapeutic Massage Also stock Victorian Garden Organic Cosmetics

30 OCTOBER – 8 NOVEMBER Franschhoek Christmas Market, Town Hall: Buy Handmade. This very popular annual market returns with something for everyone, from African games to gourmet goodies. Light meals & drink in the gardens. Plenty of parking & restrooms; credit card facilities available. amelia.schwenke@gmail.com, 072 254 7722

Carri: 021-7125656 carrifree@gmail.com (Bergvliet)

30 OCTOBER – 8 NOVEMBER The UNICA Christmas Market: shop early while supporting the Association of Autism and Unica School. Over 250 exhibitors from around the country offer a huge variety of quality products at reasonable prices at the Rembrand Hall, University of Pretoria. Enjoy tea or refreshments overlooking the lake. Plenty of safe parking. www.unicaschool.co.za, autism@mweb.co.za, 012 905 6531

www.organixsa.co.za Lizelle Barnard: 083 264 3011 Lizelle@organixsa.co.za

organic baobab seed oil Known for its Omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids this is a rich and nourishing oil with excellent skin moisturizing properties. Apply to scarred or stretched skin.

Safe during pregnancy.

This oil has healing properties and is used for eczema, psoriasis, sun spots, scaly skin disorder and skin cancer. www.ecoproducts.co.za

All component stainless steel handrail railing systems 012 653 0053/3955 Graham: 083 302 1841 dspsag@telkomsa.net www.dspaa.co.za

Jimmy Symmonds, holistic veterinarian, and Cara Wlliams, animal behaviourist, this free workshop promises to add a new dimension to your relationship with your dog. Cape Town area. www.beingwithanimals.org 073 747 1119 for more info or to book.

31 OCTOBER A new monthly Food Market at the Hellenic Community Centre in Durban North features suppliers who make, grow, or supply KZNproduced food, produce, herbs, meals, drinks, beers, wines and liqueurs, as well as food related products and everything organic.

Contact Karen@matatumarketing.co.za or telephone 083 777 5633 31 OCTOBER What does your dog really need? Explore common misconceptions associated with dog behaviour and discover essential needs for a happy and healthy dog. Co-presented by Dr

8 NOVEMBER Music at the Lake at Durban Botanical Gardens: featuring Goldfish. Starts at 2:20pm; tickets available through www.tunegum.com R70 for adults, R20 for children 6 – 12 if booked in advance. www.durbanbotanicgardens.org.za 14 NOVEMBER Insects for Children: Bernice Aspoas, an entomologist, shows children insects readily inhabiting the region and providing useful and interesting information at the Kloofendal Nature Reserve, a small reserve in the West Rand that features pristine Highveld vegetations and quartzite outcrops. Booking essential. Contact Karin Spottiswoode 011 674 2980 14 NOVEMBER Enjoy a Victorian Tea Party with a difference to celebrate the Durban Botanic Gardens’ 160th anniversary, from 10am to noon. Dress in grand Victorian style and win prizes for the best Victorian outfit, hat or parasol. Tickets from Friends of the Durban Botanic Garden 031 202 5819 22 NOVEMBER Johnny Clegg, an icon of South African music, kicks off the Old Mutual Summer Sunset Concerts at Kirstenbosch. R95 or R85 for Botanical Society members; scholars R80; from www. webtickets.co.za on sale from the Tuesday preceding the event. Information 021 799 8783 28 NOVEMBER Hout Bay Green Faire: a fun, fundraising and awareness raising day for the whole family, with music, games, movies, wholesome food, interesting stalls and a wide range of alternative, practical, healthy and eco friendly products and services are offered. www.envirochild.org, 072 797 0904 28 & 29 NOVEMBER Walk of Art Festival: exhibits, supplies, workshops, graffiti wall, chalk art, auctions, jazz, buskers, theatre, food & drink, and a kiddies play park are just some of the attractions of one of the best Art Festivals Cape Town has ever experienced, where exhibitors and visitors celebrate the creative spirit of the city. www.walk-of-art.co.za, 079 548 8485 29 NOVEMBER Family Fun Day 11am – 3pm: take a picnic basket, brollies and blankets for an afternoon of activities for all ages, including live music, an amazing race, giant adventure ball and more at the Maritime Bushveld eco estate. Visitors are asked to bring a Christmas Day picnic hamper for disadvantaged families.

Contact Zelna Lawrence on (011) 022 5997 for more information.

29 NOVEMBER Christmas Market at Stonehaven on the banks of the Vaal: buy unique Christmas gifts, enjoy light meals, a braai or buffet and river cruises, and be part of the official lighting of the Tree of Remembrance by buying a bulb in memory of someone you have loved and lost. A Rotary initiative. www.stonehaven.co.za 016 982 2951/2

in November 31 October National Picnic Day 1 November World Vegan Day 6 November International Day for Preventing

the Exploitation of the Environment

in War and Armed Conflict 16 November International Tolerance Day 21 November World Hello Day 27 November International Buy Nothing Day

one person can make a difference – life in balance

There are so many small steps that you can take every day that end up making a huge difference to your impact on the planet. By making small changes in your daily purchasing habits and the way you use water, electricity and the way you recycle, you collectively impact the whole – in a positive and sustainable way.

recycle Recycle every piece of paper you can: For every ton of paper recycled, 17 trees are saved.

Recycling paper uses 50% less water than paper that is made from wood pulp.

Recycle your plastic: Eleven recycled plastic bottles can make a pair of men’s trousers when recycled into polymers.

Recycling tins and cans saves about 95% of the energy needed to make a new can from iron ore.

water A leaking, dripping tap at 1 drop per second will waste 30-60 litres of water. Don’t run the tap when you brush your teeth.

CO2 footprint Improve your CO2 footprint, beautify your surroundings and plant trees: For every 5 new trees planted in the right environments that live for 50-100 years, 1 ton of CO2 (carbon dioxide) is offset. Different trees absorb different amounts of CO2 and older trees offset greater amounts than younger ones.

waste Keep three bins in your home: Labelled with Plastic, Paper and Glass.

Once full take them to be recycled at your closest depot.

Feed your organic waste to a worm bin: They are surprisingly easy to set up, don’t smell and all the organic waste goes back to where it should, to the worms. This then becomes food for the soil and lessens landfill.

electricity Use less electricity: Most of South Africa’s energy comes from coal, a non-renewable resource. Our electricity is generated from coal burning, and large amounts of CO2 (carbon dioxide) are released into the atmosphere when it is burned. South Africa produces about 8 tons of CO2 per person each year. This is twice as much as the global average of 4 tons per person; and the rest of Africa only produces, on average 1,1 tons of CO2 per person each year.

did you know?

It takes 16 trees to supply enough oxygen for one persons life...

what can I do?

Turn off your geyser for a few hours every day • Switch off your lights and only use what is necessary • Install dimmer switches to reduce electricity consumption and create atmosphere • Reduce paper by asking for electronic statements where possible. Most service providers offer this option • Shut down computers overnight and use power saving options. Leaving your monitor on overnight wastes enough energy to laser print 800 A4 pages • Turn off the tap. Leaving the tap running while brushing your teeth can waste 20 litres of water. Shaving wastes another 45 litres of water • Always turn off unnecessary lights during the day and turn off all lights at night.

Lighting an empty office overnight can waste the amount of energy required to heat water for 1 000 cups of coffee! download this chart at www.lifeinbalance.co.za