Green Issue by PUSH Magazine

THE FIRST BUSINESS & EMPOWERMENT MAGAZINE FOR WOMEN IN THE MIDDLE EAST

May 2011

THINK GREEN!

GREEN INITIATIVES IN THE MIDDLE EAST An inside look

HOW GREEN ARE YOU? Test your eco-knowledge

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EDITOR'S NOTE

GREEN NOT GREED

sksolh@pushmag.me

With all the noise and clutter around us on daily a basis continuously seeping into our subconscious without us even realizing it, what we want and what we need can get a little foggy. As the human race we must take a step back and observe what we are doing to our home: Mother Earth. We have to realize that we are on a suicidal path that if not dealt with immediately will reach the point of no return. The generations ahead (your children and grand children included) will suffer the consequences. Other than doing our part by recycling, turning off the sink while brushing our teeth and being eco-conscious; we need to go one step beyond that and we have to reconsider our whole system of living. Take a second and think about what most people are striving for; more money, status, and grandeur. Instead of striving for peace of mind, stress free living, and enjoying our days on this planet with family and friends. I used to blame governments and financial institutions, but now I’m blaming us, the people. Its 2011, we’re not as gullible as we were in the past. We should know better and not participate in this charade. And for the few who have gone though a shift in their perception of the world, it is their duty to pass the message on. If we don’t take steps towards maintaining the health of our ecosystem, we will be marching towards our end, with a smile on our face holding an Ipad in the left hand and a coke in the right. With the technology we already have, we can live a far more abundant life while doing the minimum damage to our earth. We are now fully capable of sustaining our lives using solar and wind energy, electric cars, green homes, green infrastructure, green business practices in different industries and much much more. And only ONE thing is standing between us and utopia, money! Money to buy more disposable things that are built NOT to last, so we can keep buying and replacing so the cycle can continue. Let us work on breaking the cycle; do your homework and research products you purchase. Deal only with eco-friendly products for your home and business. The only language that the world understands now is money, so let us get their attention by using their language.

Samia El-Solh Editor-In-Chief

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FEATURE

030 WOMEN UNITED: Their voices have been heard; their presence has tipped the scale. But will women reap the rewards of their involvement in recent revolutions?

MAY - ISSUE 6 - THE GREEN ISSUE 008 012 014 016 018 020 022 042 044 048 049 024 028

Arab Women NGOs Taming the Male Ego at your Workplace Inside the Mind of Gen Y Outlasting Your Competition (and getting their customers!) Notorious Flops Are you Change Resistant Quiz Through the Grapevine: Word-of-Mouth Marketing Capturing Hearts and Minds Money Madam Woman of the Month Book of the Month Tweet and Let Tweet Spreading the Word with or without the Net

FEEDBACK feedback@pushmag.me

I have got your magazine copies at the "Decisions Make Destinies" seminar and fell in love with it, it's exactly the type of magazine that I would like to read more often. Therefore, would you please send me details on the subscription. Thank you and keep up the good work!

FOR OUR MAMAPRENEURS 034 Censoring the News 038 Signing Off on Motherhood

LAST BUT NOT LEAST 054 055 056 061 062 065 066 067 068

Small Talk Recipe Social Pages Not so FAQ Your Chinese Horoscope Brain Gym Conferences Exhibitions Classifieds

Best regards, Nadine, Lebanon

Publisher/Editor-in-Chief UAE Chief Bureau Samia El-Solh Rym Ghazal Managing Director Dania Boustany Operations Manager Manal Nakhle Responsible Manager Ali Zeineddine International Liaison Rania Tabbah

Contributing Writers Hania El-Solh Hala Abi Saleh Haya Hashem AbuLaila Farhaa Xha Mazen H. ABBOUD Ola Eliwat Dalal Farah Nadine Krikorian Miral Maalouf Jocelyn Cortez Dania Boustany

Senior Graphic Designer Ralph Waked

Media Representatives Beirut Ahmad Bawab ahmad@pushmag.me Dubai Advance Media samar@advancemena.com evelyn@advancemena.com Regional Sales sales@pushmag.me Printer Raidy | www.raidy.com

I read all your editors notes in PUSH... Quite interesting, but how could they not be? For me at least, when most of what they talk about is basically my field! Actually, lots of interesting articles... keep up the good work I'm already a PUSH reader. Take care Wael Abou Hamze, Social Psychologist, Lebanon I was really happy to attend the decisions make destinies seminar and was super happy about women's self empowerment. I live by this code and started from scratch and I respect everyone who did so. Thank you again and will enjoy reading Push magazine, extra motivation for me :) Zeina K, Lebanon

Alias Publishing accepts no liability for any unsolicited material. Opinions and views contained in PUSHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s editorial content are not necessarily those of the publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s or the magazine. No Part of this publication in whole or in part there of can be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without the permission of the publisher in writing.

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THE PUSH MANIFESTO It was once believed that the Earth was flat and that we would fall off if we ventured beyond its limits. As time changes, different limits, rules, regulations and beliefs are set. Yet, some outdated norms and traditions set by society remain unchanged. As educated women of the 21st century, we are aware of these limits. We feel them. We are affected by them. We now live in a world where physical strength is no longer the main factor for survival. We live in a world where culture, education, politics and intellectual skills are revered and admired. We declare that we are ready to embrace our destinies and to take matters into our own hands. We are mothers, daughters, wives; we are ambitious businesswomen. We are citizens of the Arab region and of the world. We believe in dreams and passions. We believe in the relentless search to know who we are and what we stand for. We believe in self-awareness and the never-ending pursuit of self-improvement. PUSH will be the platform for a new community â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a sisterhood of empowered women, who are ready to claim their place in the world and ready to make a change. We are ready to pave our own paths and follow our own dreams. We are ready to pay our dues and create our ideal life. To inspire and be inspired is what we live for. To motivate and be motivated are what fuel our drive. We are all members of this movement. We strive to achieve as well as give in return, and we speak up for those whom are without a voice.

We are all of this and much more. Are you one of us?

Abu Dhabi 2011

Supported by

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ARAB WOMEN NGOs IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Highlighting amazing initiatives taken by NGOs across our region By Pierce Benedict

DEFINITION OF AN NGO

A non-governmental organization (NGO) is any nonprofit, voluntary citizens’ group, which is organized on a local, national or international level. NGOs perform a variety of service and humanitarian functions, bring citizen concerns to governments, advocate and monitor policies and encourage political participation through provision of information. Some are organized around specific issues, such as women rights, environment, human or health. They provide analysis and expertise; serve as early warning mechanisms and help monitor and implement international agreements. It is with the notion of liberating and empowering women in this part of the world that regional NGOs and Women Associations have been sprouting for the past forty years or so. And the results have been real, tangible and substantial. Individually and collectively, NGOs have become catalysts for change by bringing women’s concerns to the forefront. Moreover, their impact has affected the local/regional business arena. PUSH magazine has identified eleven associations, which span the entire region – from Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan and Syria to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Iraq and the UAE. They all deserve the mention and truly merit the spotlight, for they have all tirelessly worked (and working still) towards identifying, training, coaching and assisting the inevitable placement of Arab women in the boardrooms – and not in the bedrooms. In this issue, we shed light on two of these NGOs

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PIRATES COLLECTION

w w w. g e m m e s j e w e l r y. c o m ABC Department Store Achrafieh L0 t +961 1 212 888 ext 2052 . Beirut Souks gold souk sector t +961 1 999 331

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EGYPT - THE ARAB BUSINESSWOMEN COUNCIL History The Arab Businesswomen Council is a nongover nmental and non-profitable economic association convened under the auspices of the Arab League. It includes civil societies, committees, unions and Arab businesswomen companies. Aims

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES EMIRATES BUSINESSWOMEN COUNCIL History The Federation of the UAE Chambers of Commerce and Industry has adopted the idea of establishing a businesswomen council to help businesswomen achieve their hopes of working side by side with businessmen without any discrimination.

The Arab Businesswomen Council attempts to strengthen the relevant ties between all women in the Arab world and create an environment of cooperation and coordination amongst them in order to give them a greater role to explore opportunities.

Aims

Achievements

• Encouraging the participation of women in the different economic sectors besides boosting their role in the different commercial activities and providing the required training programs and studies.

• Organizing an Arab Businesswomen Economic Forum every year titled “Arab Businesswomen Economic Meeting”. • Evaluate the possibility of holding a colloquium to determine sector-by-sector assignments on specific businesses for more coordination between Arab businesswomen, who work in different fields. • Building strong cooperation and coordination relationships between Arab businesswomen associations and unions and Arab institutions concerned with investment and trade development. Contacts Website: www.abwoc.org, www.womengateway.com E-mail: almoayyed@almoayyed.com

• Boosting the interests of the UAE businesswomen and helping them overcome the difficulties and problems they encounter in their commercial, industrial and service work.

• Boosting relations and cooperation with the local, regional and international women organizations to benefit from the exchanged expertise and information. Achievements • EBWC realize its laurels by providing all women involved with a networking platform for knowledge sharing and contribute business ideas between the businesswomen and different organizations. • EBWC consultancy services offers professional advice and counsel for women-owned businesses and professionals in UAE. • EBWC has also introduced its Event Management Services. It offers an A-to-Z approach in terms of planning, organizing, promoting, delegate recruitment, and marketing efforts. Contacts Website: www.uaebwc.ae E-mail: info@uaebwc.ae

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Express yourself and do it with style KSA: Al Rasha International, S.T. Dupont Boutique (Jeddah & Al Khobar), Tanagra UAE: S.T. Dupont Boutique (Dubai Festival City), Tanagra, Al Jamal (Abu Dhabi) Kuwait: S.T. Dupont Boutique (Avenues Mall), Tanagra Oman: Capital Stores Bahrain: S.T. Dupont Boutique (City Centre & Seef Mall), Yaquby Stores, Tanagra Qatar: Ali Bin Ali, S.T. Dupont Boutique (Royal Plaza), Tanagra Egypt: S.T. Dupont Boutique (City Stars & Mohandeseen), Beymen Jordan: Abu Shakra Trading Yemen: MAM International Iran: Kafi Stores

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INTRODUCING SANJOUB, LEBANON PROJECT TITLE:

Mascot for Awareness on Forest Fires in Lebanon

OBJECTIVES: 1- Develop a fictional character/mascot similar to "Somkey

TOGETHER WE CAN PREVENT FOREST FIRES

Bear" of the US. 2- Spread awareness among youth and the local community about the damaging forest fires in Lebanon. 3- Inform about the environmental, social, and economic impact of forest fires in Lebanon.

OUTPUTS:

Opening Session held in August included 60 participants from various sectors to brainstorm for the Mascot. Mascot chosen was the squirrel to represent dense forests. Launching of mascot to the public through media. Public awareness events in 5 districts: 5 events in municipalities and local communities 5 events in public and private schools Promotional items and educational resources such as T-shirts, posters, pins, and children activity books distributed during events. Media messages, advertisements, TV spot.

DURATION:

One year from July 2009 till July 2010 Mascot will continue to spread awareness thereafter.

TARGET:

Children, youth and local community.

SANJOUB THE LEBANESE SQUIRREL

After a huge fire started to spread through the forest, Sanjoub, the squirrel, escaped to the city on a fire truck that came to his home to put out that fire. He went to the city with a mission, to share his story: "Hey people, you are destroying our forests that have been here for thousands of years, before any of us were born. The forest has provided us with food, shelter, and community. My home was an oak forest, however, my relatives and friends used to dwell in forests from the South to the North of Lebanon. That was a long time ago, now more than half of the forests are gone. One by one the trees were cut or went up in smoke. What are you waiting for? We must act now or we will lose all our trees and our livelihoods."

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2011 IS THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF THE FORESTS For Volunteering info visit: www.afdc.org.lb

For Nature... For Life

Association for Forests, Development & Conservation (AFDC) building 26, 1st Floor, Sagesse Street 7 Jdeideh, Lebanon Tel/Fax: 9611898475/6

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ADVICE FOR WOMEN IN MANAGEMENT FROM

.COM’S MANAGEMENT GUIDE, JOHN REH

Women entering management is no different than the chubby child who gets picked last for a sports team on the playground.

Is management right for you? Find out from About.com’s Management Specialist, John Reh, who shares his unique advice to Push readers about the advantages and downsides of management.

PUSH: What is management and why should women in any country and capacity care to reach such a post?

b u s i n e s s k n o w - h o w, i n t e rpersonal or other tips?

REH: Management is the skill of getting a group of people to produce more as a team than they are capable of producing as individuals. It is both art and science in that some parts can be codified, but others are just by feel. It is a profession that requires a lot of patience, excellent communication skills, an ability to reach outside yourself, and a blend of humility and arrogance.

REH: The first step toward landing a management job is doing a good job at the job you have. Then, do your homework and find out what managers do. Research the subject, read everything you can, watch the managers where you work, and talk to them about what they do. Work on developing your people skills. Managers accomplish goals through the efforts of others so you have to be good at it. Take every opportunity you can to practice your skills in this area, whether at work or in what you do away from work. There is no more important skill for success in management.

If you are successful as a manager, it can be rewarding both personally and financially. PUSH: How should one decide if management is the right direction for her? REH: To decide whether a career in management is right for you, you have to weigh the pros and cons. You have to decide what's best for you, not what matters to someone else. If power, pay, and prestige are important to you, you may want to consider a career in management. However, if you don't like being legally or financially responsible for the actions of others, management may be a bad choice. In the real world, it's not going to be that cut and dried. There will be some things about management that appeal to you and others that don't. You have to weigh all the factors and decide. The bottom line is that management as a career path is not right for everyone. You have to like responsibility. You have to enjoy working with people. You have to be able to deal with uncertainty and making decisions when you never seem to have all the facts in time. You probably will get paid more, but you'll earn it. PUSH: For Push Magazine readers who are considering becoming managers, how would you advise them to go about it and what knowledge would you arm them with, either in terms of

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PUSH: Since the dawn of humanity, women and men have been compartmentalized; men to hunt and women to manage the homestead; so historically we can assume that the female gender has been sufficiently trained in this area; yet in our complex era, the global status of women in professional managerial positions doesn’t seem to have progressed very much, why do you think this is still the case and what can we all do about it? REH: The skills required to manage a team of hunters is

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WORK ON YOUR PEOPLE SKILLS

DON’T GIVE UP

different than that required to manage a home. Neither group understands what the other does or how they do it. As a result, they downplay the value of what the other group does. More management is required as an organization grows in size. Business, the military, and the churches were the organizations [in the United States] that grew most quickly, so that’s where management developed. Women began to gradually enter these male-dominated organizations, but they have been active participants for a comparatively short period of time in the life of the organizations. This is gradually changing as more women enter the workforce and stay there longer. They are changing from isolated individuals to small groups to even majorities, in some professions. Women are proving to be just as capable as men in many different jobs, including management. They are also proving that

there are many different styles, many different ways of getting things done. The communicationscentered, collaborative management style used to manage a homestead of gatherers can work as well as the directive-based style used by the hunters. As these new approaches gain credence, as more businesses discover the results that collaborative management produces, women as managers are seen as more successful and more acceptable. This expands the opportunities for other women. The challenge now is to continue to build on these pioneers, the first wave of women managers. Every woman who wants a management position is going to have to work hard to get it. When she gets it, she is going to have to work hard to do so well at it that she gets promoted. Each such promotion puts more women into upper management and creates another opening for an entry-level female manager. Remember that when you are different you have to prove yourself. Women entering management is no different than the chubby child who gets picked last for a sports team on the playground. The rest will assume you can’t do as well as they, so you have to prove them wrong by doing better. Good enough just is not good enough. PUSH: Could you describe the economic benefits of women’s participation in the workforce?

REH: L e t ’s n o t o v e r l o o k o r downplay the role of women in producing and nurturing the children who will be the future employees. It is a unique gift. Yet, when women enter the workforce, by choice or out of economic necessity, they should have the same opportunities as any other worker. With women making up approximately half of the potential workforce on the planet, it would be foolish to ignore that resource. The differences within either gender are greater than the differences between the genders so there is no valid justification for treating them differently. It is in the best interest of any employer to select the worker who can do the job the best. If the job requires lifting 100 pound sacks all day from the floor to a loading station four feet higher, the employer wants to hire someone with the physical strength to do that. In most

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cases, that will be a man, but there are many women who are capable of doing that job as well. If the job requires sitting at a desk and inputting data into a computer there is no gender restriction on the hiring so you pick the candidate who can do it best.

DON’T REINVENT THE WHEEL Don’t reinvent the wheel – learn from what others ahead of you have done. Read everything you can about managers you want to be like, male or female.

PUSH: The “pink ghetto” and “glass ceiling” terms represent the restrictions of women’s entry into management and their forced stagnation into mainly assistance jobs, and only in a limited number of industries. While these impediments are being addressed in some parts of the world, in other areas, progress has been slow. What do you think it would take for women, globally, to break free from these stereotypes and enter into leadership positions? What are their responsibilities and what are their respective societies’ responsibilities? REH: It’s tough being the first. [In the United States], Jackie Robinson was the first black player in Major League baseball. He had the skills. He had played baseball before. He just needed an opportunity to prove that he was as good as everyone else. When he got that opportunity, he proved that he was not only as good as everyone else, he was better than most. More and more blacks were hired into Major League baseball. This also opened the doors for Hispanic and Japanese players. The same applies to women entering management. They have to be given a chance, and this is beginning to happen. Then they have to prove themselves by doing the job as well or better than their counterparts. Maybe this means starting in a female-dominated field, but experience garnered there prepares them for similar positions in other industries. Sometimes making a lateral move, from a first-level management position in a female-dominated profession to a firstlevel management position in a different business, can increase career opportunities more than taking a promotion in the same company. Progress has been slow and will continue to be slow, and uneven, until cultural changes take place. The pace and timing of these changes cannot be predicted because they depend on social and moral factors in addition to economic ones. For women trying to accelerate these changes, the best guidance is history. Learn how others made the leap. What did they do to encourage the changes? How did they achieve their successes? How did they deal with their setbacks? Then they can emulate those successes in their own country and industry. If you cannot lead the effort to

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change, even within your own career, how can you expect anyone to trust you to lead a business or a part of it? PUSH: In terms of equal pay for equal work, how would you advise companies to end this sort of discrimination? REH: Work has a value. Employers pay for that work at the lowest rate they can and still obtain the productivity they need. We see this kind of discrimination at every level of a company and across many different characteristics. We know from studies that taller men earn more for the same work than shorter men; that “pretty” people earn more than those deemed less attractive. Gender is another of those differentiating characteristics. My article “Why Men Earn More” (link listed at the end of the article) examines author Warren Farrell’s book “Why Men Earn More: The Startling Truth Behind the Pay Gap-and What Women Can Do About It”. His book suggests that the pay gap is not the result of rampant discrimination, but rather because of career choices women (and men) make. He notes, for example, that a man’s choice to marry or remain single has a major impact on his income. The pay difference between married men and never married men actually is bigger than that between men and women. He points out that many women make career choices that give them a better balance between work and life and he tells women how they can actually make more money than their male counterparts if they are prepared to make the same choices as men.

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Farrell claims, "It's all about tradeoffs. You earn more money; you usually sacrifice something at home." His research into jobs data found that higher-paying jobs are more likely to require longer commuting times, safety risks, frequent travel, long hours and other factors that, in his tests, men are more likely than women to choose. He identifies 25 different choices men and women make in their careers that affect their income. To each of these 25 choices he attaches specific ways women can earn higher pay and includes the research to support the claim. Says Farrell, "If you are making personal decisions, then you can choose to change them if you wish to. The great news is that there are 90 fields that pay women more than men." Companies will continue to pay the minimum they can for the labor resources they need. Women who want to earn higher salaries will make the choices that put them in roles where they are more valuable to an employer. Women (and men) who want or need a more balanced life will make other choices. Editor’s note: some of the information referencing Warren Farrell’s books relates to a s p e c i fi c t y p e o f r e s e a r c h and geographic location and therefore must not be taken to refer to a wider regional scope or area of study, without specific, localized research. PUSH: How would you advise women who are retur ning to the workplace, specifically to a management post, after m o t h e r h o o d ? REH: When anyone has been out of the workforce for any length of time they need to be

prepared to explain that absence to the potential employer and convince the employer that there is no risk of that happening in the future. Employers dislike the risk of an uncertain workforce because it costs money. When a resume shows a gap in employment, the hiring manager wants to know why. Was the individual on a sabbatical? Did they take time off to return to school? Did they take a trip around the world to increase their cultural sensitivity? Or did they just goof off for a year? The answer to that question will determine whether the individual is considered for the job. The employer needs reassurance that the individual is committed to working and isn’t going to cause staffing problems by taking off again. Women who reenter the workforce after having children face a similar task. They need to convince the employer of their commitment to working. That doesn’t mean they can’t leave again to have another child. It just means there needs to be a clear understanding between the employer and the employee of what the employer can expect. As long as both the woman and the employer have a clear and common understanding of what commitment the woman is making to the job, there should not be any impediment to her going after any higher position for which she is qualified, including management. PUSH: Any final comments? REH: Management is not for everyone. If you decide it is for you, the most important things to remember are: • Don’t reinvent the wheel – learn from what others ahead of you have done. Read everything you can about managers you want to be like, male or female. • Get better at people skills – the single most important trait of a manager is the ability to lead and motivate people. Practice whenever you can, at work, at home, out with friends, or at the supermarket. The more you practice the better you will get. • Don’t give up – keep trying and whenever you encounter a setback keep after your goal. It’s not always easy so you have to work hard through the rough spots. People will put roadblocks in your path, sometimes on purpose and sometimes by accident, but you have to overcome all of them.

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Management is the skill of getting a group of people to produce more as a team than they are capable of producing as individuals.

LINKS TO RELATED ARTICLES BY JOHN REH: "IS MANAGEMENT FOR ME?” LISTS THE PROS AND CONS OF TAKING A MANAGEMENT PATH IN ONE’S CAREER: HTTP://MANAGEMENT.ABOUT. COM/CS/YOURSELF/A/ MANAGEMENTFORME.HTM “GETTING A FIRST MANAGEMENT JOB” DESCRIBES WHAT ONE NEEDS TO DO TO GET A FIRST MANAGEMENT JOB: HTTP:// MANAGEMENT.ABOUT.COM/ CS/BEGINTOMANAGE/A/ FIRSTMGTJOB.HTM “WHY MEN EARN MORE” HTTP://MANAGEMENT. ABOUT.COM/OD/ WOMENMINORITIES/A/ MENEARNMORE2005.HTM

By Hala Abi Saleh

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GREEN INVESTING

By Jocelyn Cortez-Young

CEO and Portfolio Manager www.minervacapitalgroup.com

Green investing has been a dichotomy. The most prudent investor will clearly understand the difference between a dream and reality. There are three forces that need to come together in order to make it worth an investment. The first is disruptive technolog y. Does the company have the technology with the ability to scale up and offer the same value and price, megawatt for megawatt without stopping? Meaning, for the provider that would add the â&#x20AC;&#x153;substituteâ&#x20AC;? technolog y has to confirm that there is no risk of down time or malfunction.

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The second comparative is economies. You need to understand where is the price of oil, electricity, and coal which are the existing technologies to understand the mathematics as to when it is cost efficient to switch. For example, if the price of oil goes to $150 then the market price for the alternative energy becomes a stronger viable option. The third and just as important is legislation. It is important to be on top of the role of governments in dictating how green technologies will be implemented. For example, in 2010 we saw governments request changing light bulbs which contain about a 4% release in mercury content. Fluorescent light bulbs release about 70% less than that versus incandescent bulbs (older technology). So far, Australia and Argentina implemented this change in 2010 and Europe is expected next to implement this change next year. Lastly, what most investors tend to forget is the psychology of the market at the moment. For example, with the nuclear spinout in Japan, we have seen a surge of European countries making drastic decisions on energy policies based on the earthquake in Japan. Whether this is a good idea is still to be determined.

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Here are my picks given the market pricing at the moment, be aware that many of stocks in this theme tend to be very volatile because you have lots of funds flow in and out of the sector as well as market behavior sentiment may cause many opinions and consequently price to drastically change.

for high capacity grid-based electricity storage (SodiumSulfur) that can sustain the most severe operating conditions such as heavy contamination and earthquakes. You need this technology (i.e. battery) to integrate all alternative sources of energy such as wind, solar, etc.

But this has also created many opportunities…fundamentally you need something that is fail proof as an alternative option for nuclear energy and that is natural gas, solar, and wind.

LDK – LDK Solar (www.ldksolar. com) China Arguably, they are the world’s largest producers of solar wafers. Due to their dramatic c rate they have incurred a lot of debt to finance their expansion and acquisitions. Even though the debt is justified, making sure the costs of the raw material does not go up which would eat up their margins. They are looking to have a $1 billion IPO in Hong Kong at the end of this year which I think will be very successful.

Tokyo 5333 – NGK Insulators (www.ngk.co.jp) This company is located in the south of Japan and was not substantially affected by the earthquake and they are perfectly situated to help rebuild the north. They have the technology

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Keep in mind that the Chinese government intends to get 15% of their country’s energy requirement from renewable sources by 2020. The country currently consumes about 4 trillion kilowatt per year so think of how much will be conserved just by switching to solar energy. VWDRY – Vestas Wind (www.vestas.com) Denmark When looking for Wind Power companies, you should go Danish! The Danish government has been very aggressive in implementing policies for wind and alternative energy since the 1980’s. The result is that today about 20% of the electricity produced in Denmark is from wind power. Even though they had a very difficult period with the economic crisis, they definitely have the business model to sustain future growth albeit with lesser margins. Make sure you familiarize yourself with the requirements, currency risk and exposure when you invest in a global portfolio.

DISCLAIMERS:

At times, I might have in my portfolio some of the names mentioned here. Please familiarize yourself with all the requirements, currency risk and exposure you take, in addition to company risk and exposure when you invest in a global portfolio. In extreme scenarios (such as the financial crisis we saw in 2008), all of these names could have a correlation of 1 – meaning that they can all go down at the same time regardless of the health status of the company. Like people, if one gets the flu then it is very likely that many others will contract the virus as well.

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I have seen women in Gucci sunglasses throwing garbage out of their BMW PUSH sits with Ester Lascar and Karen Maalouf, two foreign women married to Lebanese men and living in North America. When their husbands experienced that great ancestral pull of the land, that so many Lebanese seem to possess, they moved to Lebanon from the US and Montreal with their husbands.

It seems absurd and obscene that a foreigner like me has the privilege to go to Edde Sands when an average salaried Lebanese cannot afford this privilege

How did the ‘Adopt A Beach’ idea come about? Well, a great topic of conversation amongst us Foreigners here is the garbage that is everywhere. I live in Kferhebeb in a rather affluent area and I have gone in front of my building on numerous occasions to physically clean up the garbage myself. And I know it’s not the workers who are throwing their Starbucks coffee on the streets. I mention this because it seems to be a general malaise to delegate the blame in Lebanon. I have seen woman in Gucci sunglasses throwing garbage out of their BMW. Mindboggling. Karen and I decided that inertia was as much to blame as the actual litterbugs. ‘Litterbugs’ is too cute a term for the Garbage Offenders who have no respect for my home, and more importantly, their home.

Explain the idea to us… This idea is modeled after the popular Adopt-A-Highway programs that are throughout North America. The idea of our program is that we will sponsor to clean and maintain a free beach for one summer season. Even though we are a very small company, we still be able to do this. We are hoping that with our success we can galvanize other large companies to do the same. Our project with be composed of phases. Phase I is to Clean the beach we are adopting and Keep it clean. In Phase II we are hoping to create a proper access to the beach, plant flowers, and install the ‘Eloo Toilet.’ The Jamhour Scouts have already donated a volleyball net. With donations like these we could eventually have a small safe playground for children. That is our vision and we want all of this to be available to the public for free. What has the reaction been from your friends and family? People have asked us why we are doing this and what we are going to profit from this project.

What beach do you got to in Lebanon? I was a member of Edde Sands and I wrote a letter proposing that Edde Sands should charge more for membership fees and allocate the difference to clean the free beach. It seems absurd and obscene that a foreigner like me has the privilege to go to Edde Sands when an average salaried Lebanese cannot afford this privilege.

Ester: Well, in my case it will save me a trip to India searching for Inner Peace and Fulfillment. So I am already a winner. Karen: I believe that you lead by example. It is important for me to demonstrate to my children how much we can accomplish by working together. I had a great example in my life. My father, Mark Urlich, donated a large expanse of land to the US Government for a Park Reserve in Ohio. He also was involved in erecting walkways and public bathrooms for hikers and much more.

Is going to a clean, safe, and free beach a privilege? We realize that cleaning a beach is not going to amend minimum wages, help women’s right or revolutionize the country but it is what we are able to do.

Do you work as well? Yes, we own a company called Beach Body Tan, we offer spray tanning services. And so we feel that it is only right that our efforts should be directed at a Beach. PUSHMAG.ME

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ADOPT-A-PUBLIC BEACH-PROGRAM

BYBLOS WHAT IT IS: Be Seen To Clean Day WHEN: Sunday May 15, @ 10:30 am - dusk WHERE: Byblos Beach, on the right of Byblos Marina. DRESS: Dress to work! WHO: For everyone who wants to participate. A Grill Barbeque for the volunteers will be served Beach Prizes will be awarded to the most industrious volunteers Baseball caps will be given to the first 100 arrivals Water will be offered Plastic Gloves to clean will be given Red Cross on premis LOOK FOR UPDATES ON FACEBOOK: Adopt-A-Beach Lebanon

KEEP LEBANON CLEAN ... ONE PEACE AT A TIME PUSHMAG.ME

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BEACH IS IN NORTH BYBLOS. Right hand side of Byblos Marina

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PUSH MAGAZINE’S GREEN CONTRIBUTOR, HAYA HASHEM, CONDUCTS AN INTERVIEW WITH MAHA MATRAJI, PROJECT MANAGER AT MASDAR CITY, ABU DHABI.

Hello Maha, thank you for taking part in this interview. So, tell me a little about yourself – education, family, work. Where are you from? I am an architect of Syrian nationality. I graduated from Tishreen University in Latakia, and in 1990, I relocated to the UAE to be with my family. I started my career in Abu Dhabi, and for the past 20 years I have worked in design coordination, construction management and project management among contractors, design consultants, and project management firms. Two years ago, I joined Masdar. I am a mother of two children. My daughter, Sarah, is 16 years of age, and my son, Jad, is 10 years old. What exactly is your position at work and what kind of duties do you fulfill in this position? I am currently a project manager at Masdar, the global renewable energy company located in Abu Dhabi which invests in renewable energy and clean technologies. I am m a i n l y i n v o l v e d i n p ro j e c t management as well as construction management. My role is basically to assure that projects under Masdar’s wing are met at the assigned deadline and budget while maintaining all quality, health, s a f e t y, a n d s u s t a i n a b i l i t y standards. In addition, I assist my colleagues in hosting tours for VIPs and other well-known individuals who are interested in knowing more about Masdar. How did you get into this type of field? I am by nature an adventurous and challenging person. I love to work in unique and specialized a re a s , s u c h a s M a s d a r, a company full of challenging

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opportunities and adequate place for research. Do you feel that your line of work is important? Why? Of course I do. A project like Masdar City requires several people with a similar experience as mine. We put it a lot of effort since we are building one of the most sustainable cities in the world, providing the highest quality and work environment with the lowest possible Carbon footprint. Along those lines, what do you think is the most important aspect of your job? The most important aspect of my job is the interaction with my team along with team members from other units in order to develop and successfully complete a project at hand. Has your work changed you? And in that respect, has being a working mother changed you? Yes, my type of work has definitely made an impact on my lifestyle. For example, I have become quicker at making decisions, even if they are somewhat risky. Being a mother allows me to transfer these leadership and decisionmaking skills onto my children. Furthermore, it has taught me to create and maintain a balance between myself, my children, and my career, for not only do I spend a lot of time working, but I also allocate some of my time for sports and for education.

Do you think that it is important for women to take part in your line of work? And if so, how do you think women can help contribute to the sustainability issue? Yes I do; I cannot imagine a workplace that is dominated by one gender. I believe both men and women are essential towards a successful and healthy work environment. Women contribute in a variety of ways, teaching, researching, and communicating among them. This communication may take place at work, at home, with family and friends. An example would be opening a discussion about the principle of reduce, reuse and recycle with your friends and how to implement it. Do you feel that being a woman has influenced or affected your role as project manager? If so, how? Not at all. In Masdar, we have both a male and a female project manager. They are both treated the same way and share equal responsibilities and achievements towards the project. How do you balance being a working mother and a full-time career woman? As I have previously mentioned, I have learned to manage my time between work, my kids, and myself. I work a great deal Sunday through Thursday. I see my children every night and even have some time to help my son with his assignments. I spend one of the two days of the weekend entirely with my family and kids, while the other day is a combination of personal time, time with friends, and time with the kids.

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achievements are for the betterment of future mankind. Where do you see your future in terms of career? That’s a very ni§ce question. Well, I can’t say that I see myself somewhere other than where I am right now. Currently, I am in the process of completing my MBA in order to develop my career. Every day we learn something new and there is no shame in admitting that. I live by the saying, “Live, laugh, and love as if today were your last day.” Thank you very much Maha. This has been a very interesting and enlightening discussion. We wish you the best of luck in all your endeavors.

Are your children interested in what you do? Have they been impacted in any way? My daughter is especially interested in my job. She enjoys talking about it with her friends and encourages her school to visit Masdar. In addition, my work has inspired her to choose environmental engineering as her university major. Do you think that it is important for your children to be conscious of the kind of work you do? Yes, it is essential. I believe that my children should be aware that their mother’s current work PUSHMAG.ME

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The Brand called

Caroline Assaf, Head of Strategies at Strategyca, a boutique branding agency. If you are interested in branding and brand strategies, follow brands4life on Twitter or “Strategyca” Groups on Facebook & Linkedin.

When you meet someone, the following things happen: • In one-quarter of one second, a person makes up his or her mind about you. • In the first five seconds, a person’s first impression of you flips back and forth an average of eleven times. • Your first impression is more important than your next five combined.

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of it as a picture of the person you want to be and work towards that image. The first step to creating a personal brand is to figure out what you want to do, keeping in mind that you will need to do heavy soul searching to find out what you truly want. A lot of times, when we give ourselves time to consider our options in depth, we find out that what we truly want and what we think we want are two different things. So you can start by setting goals for yourself and your business. For your business you can write a mission statement that outlines what you can do and what services you offer. The message? Your fate could be sealed even before you utter a single word. That’s why personal branding is vital. A personal brand is not something you can choose to have. Many people think that it is just for celebrities but everyone has one. Whether the Personal Brand is positive, negative or neutral is up to you. The term personal brand is believed to have first appeared in the August 1997, in an article by management guru and author Tom Peters. He wrote, "we are CEOs of our own companies: Me Inc. To be in business today, our most important job is to be head marketer for the brand called ‘You’."

A common mistake people make when writing their mission statement is failing to invest enough time and effort into themselves. They neglect to think of what makes them stand out from the crowd. So when you are creating yours, make sure to ask yourself “what do I stand for?” or “what can I offer that is better than everyone else in my field.” Devoting enough time to yourself will make your brand more personal therefore more effective.

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"We are CEOs of our own companies: Me Inc."

One of the main keys to success is to be passionate about what you do. Other than giving yourself time to think and reflect, you will also need to be armed with as much research and knowledge about the subject as possible. Take the time to perform self-assessments to ensure you know where your brand is heading. And of course always remember, you have a very important asset at your disposal: YOU! By Caroline Assaf, Strategyca

If you’re searching for a job or thinking about a career change, this would be a perfect time to create your personal brand. Think

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ARE YOU

ECO-FRIENDLY?

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Take this quiz to test your knowledge on environmental preservation.

2 How long does it take carbon dioxide to disperse in the atmosphere? a. 50 years b. 75 years c. 100 years d. 150 years 3. Which of the following items lasts in the environment the longest? a. Glass b. Plastic c. Leather d. Disposable Diapers 4. What percent of global energy comes from non-renewable resources? a. 26% b. 45% c. 65% d. 92% 5. True of False Climate change due to increased global warming pollution will cause more severe weather patterns in years to come.

6. Which of the following statements is true according to the American Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)? a. Indoor air pollution is two to five times higher than outdoor air pollution levels b. Outdoor air pollution is two to five times higher than indoor air pollution levels c. Indoor and outdoor air pollution levels are equal 7. What is the most common reason that an animal species becomes extinct? Is it because: a. Pesticides are killing them b. Their habitats are being destroyed by humans c. There is too much hunting, or d. There are climate changes that affect them? 8. Which country is the â&#x20AC;&#x153;greenest"? a. Germany b. Switzerland c. Japan d. Spain 9. Which company tops the list of greenest companies in the world? a. Proctor & Gamble b. Starbucks c. Dell d. Microsoft

1. a 4. d 7. b 2. c 5. True 8. b 3. a 6. a 9. c

1. Which of the following light bulbs is the most energy efficient? a. Compact Fluorescent b. Incandescent c. Halogen

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[Cool Green The revolving door

The Revolution Door is a c o n c e p t f ro m N e w Yo r k designers Fluxxlab that puts otherwise-wasted kinetic energy from a revolving office door to good use—generating power. Fluxxlab’s idea behind all this is that humans exert a chunk of their own energy when pushing a revolving door and it may as well be captured via gears and an electricity generator. If you think about the thousands of doors across the country spinning around all day, every day, that could be a whole lot of energy produced.

Cell phone strap

Running out of power on your cell phone while having an important conversation really sucks, but thankfully there are impromptu add-ons like this cell phone strap from Strap-Ya that features a tiny solar cell which is capable of harnessing the power of the sun to charge your handset.

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Green bike

Available in two color choices, cream to green and deep to a golden orange, everyone on the road will definitely be able to see you comin’. Looks like a great day to go green and stay safe all in the same stroke. Forget the yellow vest and invest in a bike that will keep you glowing. $1600

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Gadgets] Spin charger

Designer Mikhail Stawsky came up with the Mechanical Mobile, a concept cell phone that can be charged by spinning it around your finger. Touchscreen technology meets the Wild West? This design might be for the modern day cowboy. Like gunslingers of old, the quickest draw to twirl and power their phone wins?

Eco cup

The Eco Cup is a reusable cup made from porcelain with a silicone lid and sleeve. The cup will help keep your beverages hotter for longer and by using the cup for take away drinks or even to take drinks in from home you help to reduce the amount of paper cups that go to landfill daily.

Coke phone

Daizi Zheng designed a cell phone to run on Coke. Her design has the potential to operate three to four times longer on a single charge than conventional lithium batteries. She wrote, “The concept is using bio battery to replace the traditional battery to create a pollution free environment. Bio battery is an ecologically friendly energy generates electricity from carbohydrates (currently sugar) and utilizes enzymes as the catalyst. By using bio battery as the power source of the phone, it only needs a pack of sugary drink and it generates water and oxygen while the battery dies out.”

Scratch and scroll

T h e S c r a t c h N S c ro l l Mousepad is an ingenious way to ensure you are always prepared to make notes. The mousepad provides a great surface to use a mouse on while allowing you to make notes on it. Once you are done with the note it can be removed by simply lifting the top surface.

Solar Cellphone

Designer Aleksandr Mukomelov created a sleek, thin cell phone concept that sports two touch screens. One is a traditional screen and the second is a flexible OLED screen that stiffens when you unroll it. The Mobile Script phone has most any feature you might want, like internet access, documents on the go, games, communication, and mobility. Can it get any better? Oh yes. You don’t ever need to recharge this phone. The case is coated with a photo sensitive nano material that converts sunlight into energy.

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SNACK ON GREENS Feeling hungry at work but you’re petrified of adding on calories? Well, put your worries at ease because, as a dietician, I’ve helped many shed that excess weight while still enjoying a good snack.

We usually consume 5 to 6 meals a day, including snacks. Snacking usually comes in between breakfast and lunch, lunch and dinner, or after dinner. But often times we find ourselves munching on sugary and fatty foods while we sit at our desks or when we’re watching TV. To solve this, you should plan your choice of snacks ahead of time. This only takes a few minutes to do and it can save you a lot of money. Not to mention will leave you feeling satisfied and healthy. Now, let’s go over few of the snacks you can prepare at home. Starting with the majesties of snack items I represent to you, fruits and vegetables. You can prepare bitesize pieces of raw vegetables such as cucumber, carrots, celery, pepper strips, cauliflower, or broccoli. These items can be made into a salad, topped with low-calorie dips in a small Tupperware. Or can be chopped up and eaten alone. How about a cup of fruit salad of fresh apples, strawberries, bananas and orange juice the next day, for a change? Another suggestion is a low-sugar, high fiber breakfast cereal with low-fat or skimmed milk. If your office has a refrigerator, give this idea a try. You can also pack some delicious dried fruits such as apricots, prunes, raisons, figs and don’t forget to add some nuts for an extra crunchy flavor. Another good idea is to pack your snacks in reusable packages instead of new bags which will be thrown away after every use. Enjoy your life with these healthy light snacks. Go green, go healthy! By Maysa Hammoud

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A GREEN STATE OF MIND

hen I was young, I had a neighbor who used to collect empty soft drink bottles, used papers and mineral products from everyone around the neighborhood. When I asked him why, he said he wanted to resell them. My friends and I used to laugh and call him a stingy old man.

We must also depend less on fuel because it is costly and harms the environment by substituting it with natural resources (like wind power and solar energy). And finally to be become more efficient in production, fewer raw materials should be used to make better end products.

We also had another neighbor, auntie Jalili, who used to tailor her familys’ old items to generate new ones and I used to pity her because she could not afford new clothes.

Making your business green takes time and energy, but the rewards we gain are worth all the trouble.

When I was a boy I used to hate when my grandfather urged me to switch off the lights in the room when I wasn’t using them or when he yelled at me for leaving the sink running while brushing my teeth. I also used to dislike how he cooked vegetarian food for lunch, dinner and snacks. When I used to be a small boy, my family prepared reserves for the wintertime, like drying fruits and vegetables and preparing an assortment of jams. This was done instead of heading to the grocery store every week.

Mazen ABBOUD is an environmentalist, businessman, and a member of the International Press Institute (IPI). He is also an alternate member of the Mediterranean commission on Sustainable Development of the United Nation Environmental Program (MAP) & an Environmental consultant to it. E-Mail: abboudmaz@gmail.com

In the old days, we used to design traditional houses in a way that would allow wind to circulate in kitchens and bed rooms, and light to get in their rooms; we depended on wood, soil and stones to build homes; thus, they were well isolated from heat and cold. Moreover, people used to depend less on fuel; they used to cooperate more to reduce the use of one’s car to get to a certain location. To “go green” is to make use out of every item you have and to learn how to reuse the waste you generate.

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To sustain your business economically, investment in green technology is a must. Becoming green maybe costly in the short run; but it is the only way to survive financially in the long run. To become green also means to change our attitude as consumers. Use energy efficient cars; buy less non recyclable items; depend more on raw and vegetarian food; reuse our old unwanted items; manage our domestic wastes at home and at work; and finally minimize the purchase of unnecessary items. Water, air, and solar energy are considered by many economics as non scarce resources; however, this would not be the case in the future. Due to excessive human polluting activities, we have made every meter of fresh water and fertile soil very scarce. Becoming green should be a practical course for all homes and businesses in the Middle East. It should also stop being a theoretical academic yearning for the elite. And for us to really be “green,” people have to become models of change and share their knowledge and know-how with others. By Mazen H.ABBOUD

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s the saying goes “ i f i t w e re e a s y, everyone would do it”. But when it comes to going green, it really is that easy. We’re all aware of the startling statistics on how our carbon-foot print is hurting the environment, but what are we doing to help reduce it? For most of us, the answer would be nothing. Yet, by changing only a few habits in our daily routine, we can ensure a healthy and eco-friendly living, while saving a few extra bucks in the process.

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HAVE A GREEN SUMMER!

If you are worried about the deteriorating state of the environment and would like to do your part, then this summer, go green!

Instead of cranking up the air conditioner, try using lowenergy fans around the areas you most spend time in, like the living room or bedroom. If you live in an area where the sweltering heat proves unbearable, you should keep the AC at a high temperature and use the fan to create a light breeze. Remember, fans cool people, not spaces. Make sure they are turned-off before you leave the room. Kitchen appliances can make food preparation easy but they can be hard on the

electricity bill. Try using manual alternatives for can openers, juicers and vegetable dicers. Not only would they cost less, but this will decrease your electricity consumption.

The American Food and Drug Administration has strict rules on what companies can call “organic”; while the term “natural” can be used quite loosely. When it comes to produce or poultry, and even clothing, search for a clearlymarked organic label.

Hot and arid weather makes moisturizing a very important skin-care regimen

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and we tend to generously apply face creams and sun-blocks wherever we go. But what exactly are we smearing on our bodies? Well, according to the back of my moisturizer: Trisodium EDTA, Cyclomethicone and other scarysounding chemicals. Switching to organic cosmetics is healthier and better for the environment. Organic means the products are non-toxic and can easily be broken down by other living organisms (i.e. biodegradable). Cosmetics stores, like Sephora and the Body Shop, have a wide array of products to choose from.

driving, walk to locations t h a t a re l e s s t h an 2 miles.

Manufacturing companies spend millions of dollars on making their products aesthetically pleasing to the consumer. But all the extra materials used in the process wastes a lot paper, ink and plastic. When shopping, buy products with little or no packaging.

By Hania El-Solh

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Going green is no longer just an “inconvenient” fad. It is very much a reality and it is here to stay. Yo u r a c t i o n s w i l l h a v e a n everlasting positive effect on the environment and on the people around you, especially children. By following a few simple steps, like the ones mentioned above, you can help sustain the planet for future generations.

Burning fossil fuels, such as gasoline, contributes to the raise in CO2 levels, which in tur n causes global warming. And while gas prices are at a staggering high, it is in everybody’s best interest to curb vehicle dependence. When it comes to using the car, try to be as conservative as possible. If you live next to co-workers, offer to start carpooling. This will help decrease CO2 levels while saving you money on gas. Instead of

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GREEN INITIATIVES

“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children” – A proverb

big and small, around the Middle East The Middle East has been wrongfully accused of being sluggish when it comes to the environment. Fortunately, PUSH magazine discovered that most Middle Eastern countries are already working on increasing their environmental and sustainability initiatives. Take an inspiring journey through the Arab world and have a look at how nations are aiming for a cleaner, healthier future.

LEBANON ORGANIZATION: Holy Spirit University of Kaslik (USEK) in Mount Lebanon ACTION: To become the first carbon-neutral university in the Middle East. STRATEGY: • Implementation of a new educational requirement – mandatory environmental awareness classes for all majors. • Shifting behaviour of students towards more sustainable behaviour by advising them how to be environmentally- aware. • Building Leed-certified buildings: daylight saving windows, retrofitting of solar technology on old buildings, planting of trees and gardens to create a cooler, shaded environment. • Transportation: create a car-free campus by relocating the parking lot to underground locale and transporting passengers by hybrid shuttles to the campus. Placed on top of the parking lot will be an “eco-garden”. • Sustainability Operations: waste will be separated and given to companies which can reuse it, reusable materials

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(such as non-disposable plates in the kitchen) will be utilized as well as recycled paper, environmentally safe pens, biodegradable bags, energy saving materials such as long life light bulbs and solar energy. MOTIVATION: The project is expected to take 15 years to complete and will cost approximately 81 million US dollars. Capital will come from the University itself and private donations. Part of the impetus to strive to be the world’s first totally green university comes from the fact that universities are strong role models for the general community and it is hoped that they will influence other universities and organizations to be more environmentally- friendly. For more information on this topic please visit the University website at: www.usek.edu.lb. Or visit Now Lebanon at: www.nowlebanon.com.

JORDAN ORGANIZATION: F r i e n d s o f E n v i ro n m e n t S o c i e t y (F.O.E.), an independent, non-profit, non-governmental organization aimed at increasing environmental awareness through education.

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ACTION: • To educate the next generation of children in regards to the environment and encourage them take a more active role in conserving their natural resources. • E n c o u r a g e t h e p r i v a t e s e c t o r to become more environmentally conscious. They can do so by implementing strategies that reflect their concern for preserving the environment. STRATEGY: • Annual Environment Competition: Competition between students from different schools around Jordan where participants will find a permanent solution for a local environmental problem. • Drawing contest for children under the age of 15. Students must portray their environment as they see it. Post cards and other items are then created and sold. • Getting involved with Jordan’s Heritage and Environmental Coalition • Creating the Dialogue Program: FOE initiates dialogue with students internationally and regionally in order to help keep all students abreast with latest environmental issues across the globe. MOTIVATION: Friends of Environment strive to “create an environmentally aware generation, encourage the participation of the private sector, cooperate with other environmental societies, promote constructive dialogue between students and give students environmental conservation skills in the field of natural resources specially water”. FOE is funded by donations from the private sector, individuals, national and international organizations as well as offers paid memberships. For more information of Friends of Environment, please visit their website at: www.foe.org.jo.

PALESTINE ORGANIZATION: The Agricultural Development Association (PARC), a non-profit, non-

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ACTION: To contribute in achieving sustainable and integrated rural development in the Palestinian Territories while focusing on women’s roles in the sector.

supplies, and credit. Due to the occupation, Palestinian farmers cannot export their produce and therefore are forced to sell locally. At the same time, the Israeli agriculture sector is highly subsidized, therefore undercutting the prices of Palestinian goods. PARC was formed as a solution to help maintain a competitive market.

STRATEGY: PARC has six main areas of focus to help achieve its goals:

For more information on PARC, please visit their website at: www.pal-arc.org

• P a r t i c i p a t i o n a n d p r o m o t i o n of ownership – by gathering the stakeholders and having participatory exchanges of ideas and partnerships. “The feeling of ownership for the action’s outcomes at the local partner level is practically very high and will ensure the sustainability of the program”.

EGYPT

governmental group which works to support rural development and women’s empowerment.

• Policy support – the Palestinian Reform and Development Plan (PRDP) and the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) will collaborate to provide policy support. • Appropriate technology – using gained experience to adapt farmers to new technologies, and to incorporate their social norms and customs in society. • Environmental protection – by protecting land and water resources, PARC will discourage the use of fertilizers and pesticides and promote community participation. • Gender equality – women play a large role in agriculture in many countries but are rarely recognized for it. PARC aims to increase women’s participation and awareness while at the same time narrowing the gender gap and giving them greater access to resources. MOTIVATION: PARC was created to help achieve two critical objectives: 1) To protect Palestinian land from being illegally confiscated by the Israeli occupation forces. Land perceived as being unused was an easy target and usually got confiscated – therefore a movement to invigorate farmers to keep their land used was created as a way of protection. 2) To provide Palestinian farmers with agricultural extension services such as advice, techniques, knowledge,

ORGANIZATION: Ministry of the State for Environmental Affairs and the Ministry of Communications and Technology have joined together for this venture. ACTION: Create a green Information and Communication Technology (ICT) initiative aiming to be worldwide leaders the environmentalist sector. STRATEGY: • R e d u c e t h e u s e o f e n e r g y b y implementing tactics such as purchasing laptop computers rather than desktop computers, turning on the power of devices such as printers, scanners and speakers only when needed, switching from a paper-based to an electronic workflow — creating, editing, viewing and delivering documents in digital rather than printed form, sending documents as email attachments rather than as faxes, using teleconferencing, video-conferencing and area-wide learning platforms to reduce travelling. • Creating a location for the excesses of hardware thrown away each year such as mobile phones, computers, printers, batteries and gadgets. MOTIVATION: The ICT sector makes up about 7% of global GDP and emits approximately 2-2.5% of all greenhouse emissions. While other sectors emit higher levels PUSHMAG.ME

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of greenhouse gases, the ICT sector can serve as a role model to encourage other industries to implement green strategies. According to Taha Khalifa of Intel Egypt, “Sustainability is a business imperative and this was echoed at Cairo ICT this year”. In addition to reducing the sector’s carbon footprint, reducing energy consumption is also cost saving to individual companies. For more information on this initiative please visit: www.xing.com/net/egypt/news249716/the-green-revolution

IRAQ ORGANIZATION: G re e n M a d a ’ i n A s s o c i a t i o n f o r Agricultural Development (GMAAD), is an Iraqi farmer cooperative. ACTION: To help revive Iraq’s agricultural sector after the war. STRATEGY: to provide farmers with: • Free technical assistance for various t e c h n o l o g i e s r a n g i n g f ro m f a r m equipment to office supplies, training in farming techniques, animal husbandry. • Membership benefits: b e n e fi t t i n g f r o m t h e G M A A D ’s infrastructure work, such as building drip irrigation systems and greenhouses, for its members throughout the region. • Seed, fertilizer, pesticides, machinery, animal feed and other farming supplies • GMAAD provides low-interest lines of credit to purchase or rent agricultural equipment and supplies and to secure needed farm services. This is possible due to the fact that the co-op, as a large organization, has lower costs than an individual farmer. MOTIVATION: Due to long term war circumstances, much of Iraq’s agricultural sector has PUSHMAG.ME

either been damaged or neglected, resulting in badly-managed industry. Due to the efforts of the co-op, it is becoming a dynamic force in the development of modern, sustainable agricultural practices in Mada’in Qada. The co-op received assistance from the USDA Provincial Reconstruction Team both in knowledge and financial assistance. “With the funding we obtained from the U.S. Department of State, we were able to systematically take the cooperative through the steps it needed to follow to become a sustainable organization,” says John Ellerman, USDA PR T agricultural advisor. Detailed information about this project can be found in a PDF file named “Rural Cooperatives” – a USDA/Rural Development publication. It can be found at: http://www.rurdev.usda.gov.

MOTIVATION: Kuwait’s oil sector has contributed to some environmental changes. However the country is keen on protecting the environment. “These initiatives prove Kuwait's comprehensive commitment to the environment,” Sheikh Jaber Al Sabah, Chairman of EPA said. “By continuing to implement new environmental programs, we help ensure our children will grow up in a Kuwait that continues to enjoy clean air, clean water and a bright future”. For more information please visit: http://www.environmental-expert. com/resulteachpressrelease. aspx?cid=36822&codi=229726

OMAN

KUWAIT ORGANIZATION: Environment Society of Oman (ESO), founded by Omanis representing different professional backgrounds from different regions. ORGANIZATION: Environment Public Authority (EPA) ACTION: • Kuwait organizes and hosts GCC events relating to wildlife natural habitat protection and environmental coordination across the Gulf.

ACTION: to help preserve Oman’s national heritage and raise environmental awareness. STRATEGY: • To publish educational and awarenessraising material for the public;

• One example of the events they host is REUSE 4.0 Exposition where environmentalism is combined with art, music and technology. The purpose of the Exposition was to show Kuwaitis the endless possibilities and benefits of making the cultural shift toward sustainable living.

• To organize participatory events that allow the public to become actively involved in conservation activities;

STRATEGY: The plan includes: construction of a legislative frame of the complete environment directory; controlling emissions produced by polluters; observing and supervising the marine environment using radar technology; evaluating the coral reef; conducting field surveys of all areas to gain as much information on biodiversity in natural reservations as possible.

• To foster cooperation between scientific, educational, public and government organisations to promote the conservation of both marine and terrestrial habitats in Oman.

• To provide a forum for the exchange of ideas and information related to the environment in Oman.

• To a c t i v e l y re s e a rc h t h e m a n y a s p e c t s o f O m a n ' s e n v i ro n m e n t to help provide the necessary information for conservation and education initiatives.

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MOTIVATION: Oman is historically well known for its diverse plant and animal life. Its rich environment is part of its national heritage and ESO strives to maintain it for today and for future generations. “We are careless with our environment because we can be and because it is easy but mainly because we do not think ahead. It is our job to nurture this ability… the rest will follow”, HH Sayyid Tarik Bin Shabib Al-Said, Patron of the Environment Society of Oman.

SAUDI ARABIA & BAHRAIN

To learn more about ESO’s projects and activities, please visit their website at: environment.org.om

QATAR ORGANIZATION: Vodafone (Qatar) launches ‘green drive’ ACTION: Two new initiatives launched by Vodafone in Qatar include: • Reload and Recycle Bins – collection bins will be available in a range of outlets for customers to toss their used recharge cards. These cards will then be recycled for re-use. • Energy Saving stickers – “Tur n Me Off” stickers will serve to remind people to tur n off their electrical devices when not in use in order to save electricity and reduce carbon put into atmosphere. The stickers will be given to customers when they make purchase at a Vodafone store. MOTIVATION: "We take protecting the environment, specifically the aim to make Qatar a greener country, very seriously”, Hesham Aly, Commercial Manager of Vodafone Qatar’s Retail. For more information on this topic, please visit: http://www.gulfbase.com/site/ news/Vodafone-Launches-GreenInitiatives-in-Qatar_142554.aspx

ORGANIZATION: Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) ACTION: A strategic partnership between the GCC members to invest in green initiatives and green technologies in order to help reduce greenhouse gases, leading to poverty reduction in least developed countries (LDCs). STRATEGY: There are four main objectives in this collaboration: • Gulf States will invest in green technologies and innovations in clean energy. This will help provide the technology needed to expand clean energy markets in LCD’s at lower costs. • Expand the clean energy market through policy – by creating networks and training people which will increase human resources and building institutions and research centres. • To take a global leadership role in the sustainability movement by forging global agreements on clean energy initiatives and helping to transition the global community towards a sustainable society. • A i d a n d s u p p o r t s t r a t e g i c partnerships between the North and the South, which can be facilitated by the United Nations to develop capacities in developing countries MOTIVATION: According to the UNDP, over 3 billion people around the world use outdated forms of equipment for domestic

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purposes, particularly cooking devices. By contributing to the output of green technology and sustainable living practices, the GCC will enable more people in poverty stricken regions to access this technology and live healthier lives. The GCC states can also contribute to delivering affordable electricity to those regions, helping to further reduce poverty. The Gulf States have the opportunity to provide leadership in encouraging member states to become involved in clean energy investments. For more information on this initiative, please visit: http://www.arabclimateinitiative. org/Countries/bahrain/Abdel_gelil_ report_bahrain_mtg_with_cover_ FINAL.pdf or http://www.mediaglobal.org/ article/2010-03-18/gulf-countriesto-invest-in-green-initiatives-forthe-reduction-of-poverty-in-ldcs

SYRIA ORGANIZATION: Coordination between the Ministry of Local Administration and Environment (NEX) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Agrarian Reform ACTION: Biodiversity Conservation and Protected Area Management Project for three locations in Syria. These areas are protected thanks to the involvement of local communities in the conservation of biodiversity process. STRATEGY: Three main strategies for accomplishing biodiversity conservation: • Development of protected area management systems through training, provision of technology and advice from local and outside sources. • Create a data management system where information on all protected PUSHMAG.ME

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areas is being stored, monitored and compared for study purposes. • Raise public awareness in Syria about biodiversity conservation MOTIVATION: The project put forth will provide long term sustainability of biodiversity in the three areas. It will be built following international standards and criteria for biodiversity conservation in order to ensure that these areas will continue to provide current and future needs for the Syrians. For a fully detailed report on this project visit: http://www.undp.org.sy/ files/227%20Biodiversity%20 Conservation%20and%20 Protected%20Area%20 Management.pdf

YEMEN

local and inter national firms. The main zones will include: resource use zone, general use zone and nature sanctuaries.

a n d s u s t a i n a b i l i t y. A l s o i n d u s t r y leaders and producers will have an arena in which to meet, exchange ideas, and create partnerships.

• SCDP Coordination Unit – created to ensure long term, continuous conservation and sound development on the islands by coordinating all high level and low level stakeholders, creating working groups at all levels, develop reporting cycles an assist international agencies and donors.

• Pilot programme established to attempt to adapt LEED certification

MOTIVATION: Known as the "Galapagos of the Indian Ocean", the Archipelago of Socotra is considered a special conservation a re a o f h i g h g l o b a l i m p o r t a n c e . Hundreds of rare and spectacular large plants and cryptic small animals can be seen there, which can be found nowhere else in the world. Marine life is rich and colourful and home to several rare species which are almost extinct elsewhere. For more information on this unique initiative, please visit their website at: http://www.socotraisland.org

ORGANIZATION: Socotra Conservation Archipelago Conservation and Development Programme (SCDP), created by the Republic of Yemen. ACTION: To conserve and develop the island of Socotra and the two neighbouring islands in a sustainable way which will serve to protect and nurture the rich, diverse plant and animal life, much of which can only be found on the island. STRATEGY: • Creation of GEF UNDP/UNOPS Project (Socotra Biodiversity Project) where the main goal is the conservation of plant and animal biodiversity found in the island. • Biodiversity Conservation Zoning Plan – to integrate development and conservation of natural resources and biodiversity through the use of zoning maps, local backgrounds of differing people and their livelihoods, scientific work and consultation by PUSHMAG.ME

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES ORGANIZATION: Emirates Green Building Council, ACTION: To advance green building principles for protecting the environment and ensuring sustainability in the UAE. STRATEGY: • Government initiatives combined with EGBC rating system will give the impetus for builders to follow sustainability and energy saving solutions. • Many developers in the country are already following LEED guidelines • FM Expo held in Dubai to showcase Dubai’s commitment to green building

MOTIVATION: The UAE has ambitions of being among the top five leaders in sustainability worldwide. The country has grown significantly in a short period of time and they wish to demonstrate that while cities can grow fast, they can also grow green. To help accomplish this goal, Emirates Green Building Council was created. EGBC mission statement: “Emirates Green Building Council is an independent forum that helps in shaping policies for the built environment and facilitates collaborative solutions to promote sustainable practices in the UAE”. For more information on this initiative, please visit EGBC’s website at: http://www.emiratesgbc.org/egbc/ By Haya Hashem AbuLaila

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BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER - Qatar

Female/Male, Bilingual, University Degree (BA/MA) preferably in Business Administration, Ability to identify and develop business opportunities for the Company’s creative solutions as well as the Company’s services in the Trading & Contacting or Real Estate Development or Retail (furniture) Experience: Minimum five years Reference: BDMS201

BUSINESS OPERATIONS MANAGER - Qatar

Female/Male, Bilingual, University Degree (BA/MA) preferably in Business Administration, Ability to manage and oversee all the organization’s operations activities and present accountability for meeting goals and objectives of all subsidiaries through planning, directing, managing and overseeing the activities, operations, resources, and providing high level of support to these subsidiaries to ensure achieving their scheduled/targeted objectives and goals. Minimum of ten years experience in the Trading & Contacting or Real Estate Development or Retail (furniture) Reference: BOMS202

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT (Lebanon) Female, Bilingual, University Degree (BA/MA) preferably in Business Administration Responsible for managing and coordination of projects, schedules, and tasks of the General Manager At least 10 years experience in a similar position Reference: EAIP203

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ADVERTISING SALES CONSULTANTS (Lebanon) – 2 OPEN POSITIONS Senior and intermediate positions in sales of advertising. Several years of experience in outside sales in advertising or other businessto-business sales such as office equipment, training, insurance, etc. Experience in Lebanon required. Background in FMCG or medical product sales is not suitable Reference: ASCIP205 RESEARCH PROJECT MANAGER (Lebanon) – 2 OPEN POSITIONS Responsible of conducting market research projects, liaising with fieldwork department, and reporting to department head. Defining needs, designing questionnaires, analysis of data, report writing. Graduate in economics or business (Masters a plus) from a reputable university, with at least five years experience, good knowledge of statistics and quantitative methods, versatile in basic computer tools, good writing skills in English. Excellent knowledge of market research Reference: RPMIP206 REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT MANAGER (Lebanon) Ability to handle all marketing and purchasing related activities pertaining to a specific line of Products, Manage one or two Junior Brand Managers, Handling a portfolio of brands, in the Lebanese market Trilingual, Graduate in Marketing or any equivalent degree, minimum 2 years experience in a similar position Reference: RDMF207 HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGER (Lebanon) Ability to participate in the development of the overall HR strategy and the formulation of the HR and Personnel policies and procedures Trilingual, BA in Business Administration, MBA is a plus, Minimum 6 8 years experience in HR Generalist function including 3 years in a similar managerial position; HR experience in FMCG environment is a plus. Reference: HRMF208 ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER (Lebanon)

Ability to maintain premises, fleet, etc. in the best way, to ensure the Company’s assets and premises, in addition to providing the Company with the proper security and safety conditions, maintenance and cleaning services. Bilingual (French is a plus), BS in Engineering or Business Administration, At least 3 years experience in similar position Reference: AMF209

Please send your CV with the reference number of the job you are interested to apply for to:

jobs@standards-hrc.com +961 1 791841 - +961 7052 7033

www.standards-hrc.com

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FEATURE

THE SCOOP ON ORGANICS Organics, organics, organics! From food, to diapers, to clothes, to soaps, to paper, to beauty products, it seems that almost everything these days is organic. Societies everywhere have been persuaded to buy into the ‘organic trend.’ However, do we really understand what organic products are all about? Are we buying into smoke and mirrors? Here we take a look at the scoop on organics – what it means, why it’s important, how to get into it and last but not least, the myths and truths about organics. WHAT IS “ORGANIC”?

In short, organic farming basically means that crops are grown in soil which has zero soluble mineral inputs or synthetic herbicides or pesticides. It favors natural inputs to enrich the soil such as earth worms, manure and ground up organic matter such as leaves, fruits and roots. Therefore, any food grown in this type of soil is considered to be organic, any animal which eats these organic foods can be considered organic, and any product that is made using these organic foods and animals can be considered organic. That leaves us with the following question: why are we encouraged to “go organic?” There have been indirect links made between synthetic farm inputs (pesticides and fertilizers) and various health disorders. On the mild side these can include skin irritations, vomiting and diarrhea, while on the more acute side they can include respiratory and nervous system disorders, cancer, reproductive disorders and developmental disabilities in children. In addition to health concerns there is the environmental damage created in polluted soil and waterways, which are then passed onto the plants and animals, who survive off of those, and eventually destroying our precious resources. It would only seem logical then, that we would choose PUSHMAG.ME

to diminish these health and environmental risks by choosing to purchase products that are not grown using synthetic inputs – in other words, organic products. The next question that stands before us is: How do I know that what I’m consuming is actually organic? Of course there is the obvious indicator – the sign on the package which brags its “organic-ness”. While we would all love to believe that every company out there works on high standards of ethics and honesty, unfortunately this is not always the case. While many products may brag about being organic, the reality is that some may not actually be certified by a legitimate certifying organization. It is important to check the label for a certification of organic quality and you may find it useful to know the primary certifying agencies in the countries where the products are produced. Certifying agencies should be federally accredited to be considered legitimate and trustworthy. An online check will provide information on the certifying agencies for any organic products that you purchase. For those of you with ‘green thumbs’ (those who enjoy gardening) there a few important things to know if you want to

THE GREEN ISSUE

get started in organic farming. Whether it is for personal or commercial use there are three criteria for organic farming:

1. No synthetic pesticide or fertilizer use. This means any pesticide or fertilizer synthesized from chemicals and minerals in a lab is not allowed. Natural types of fertilizers include the use of compost (fruit and vegetable skins, leaves, roots, egg shells, etc.) animal manure and live animals in the soil. The use of earth worms and other live animals will make the soil very healthy and productive as they turn nutrients into a state which the plant roots can easily uptake. Live animals also allow for air and water to pass easily through the soil as they tunnel around foraging for food. Natural pesticides can be made from ingredients in your home such as burning coffee grinds, watering the plants with tobacco soaked water and other easy to find homemade solutions. A quick internet search will provide you with an array of natural pesticides which are safe on the plants. For a more sophisticated pesticide use, you can introduce insects which eat other insects that live on the fruit and vegetable plants you are planting. This may take considerable research to do it properly and avoid a host of strange and bothersome pests flying around your home! 2. The seeds used must be organic. Taking seeds from produce which has not been grown organically will not qualify as organic farming. The best thing to do is buy organic produce and save the seeds for replanting later. Another option is to buy organic seeds, but again making sure that it is a legitimate, federally accredited certifying agency which approved the seeds as organic. 3. The crops must be grown in an organic fashion for a minimum of two years. This two year time frame will ensure that any synthetic or non natural materials in the soil will have time to make their way out of the system. If you are trying to start an organic farm for commercial use, it is important to contact the certifying agencies from the beginning of your endeavor. This way they can guide you step by step through the process and help you make sure that all of the products you are using are legitimately organic products from the start.

MYTHS AND REALITIES ON ORGANIC FARMING AND FOODS Myth: Organic farming is the way to make the environment cleaner and healthier, leading to growing healthier crops, and in doing so will also make humans able to live a longer, healthier lives. Reality: The organic industry has become just that, an industry. Organic farming works off of ideals: all natural farming, healthier earth, healthier foods, and healthier people. In an ideal world this is exactly the case, however we do not live in an ideal world. For one, the produce has to be transported. Transportation in itself is a huge pollutant, especially when the produce is being exported. So the fact that the veggies are organic really doesn’t make a difference because pollution caused by transportation is still occurring. Often times, stores and other produce pushers will spray the produce with substances to make them stay fresher longer. This is definitely inorganic! So all that effort to produce actual organic food just went down the drain. Consider organic paper, organic bags, clothes, candles – how do these items being organic actually benefit us? At the end of the day they still have to be manufactured and the manufacturing (industry) has caused the biggest amount of pollution, leading to global warming and the harming of the atmosphere in general. There is no benefit to manufacturing with organic products. Myth: Organic foods taste better and are healthier than non organic foods. Reality: It is strictly an opinion that organic foods taste better, not a fact. As far as organic foods being healthier, logically speaking yes, that argument can be made based on the farming technique. However the reality is that it is almost impossible to make a link between a disease that someone has and the non organic vegetables that they have been eating for the past 30 years. While, ideally, organic

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foods should be healthier, it could be that the farming technique used actually causes more harm than regular farming techniques. So don’t worry if you typically eat non organic produce, the chances are you’ll be fine! GOING ORGANIC THE RIGHT WAY Organic farming and foods play an important role in our lives. We should try to remember that while ideally organic is the way to go – being organic in itself should not be the end goal. What I mean is that the big picture should be considered, not just finding organic fruits and vegetables. A FEW TIPS ON GOING ORGANIC: Try to find organic produce that has been grown locally, this will tell you that transportation of the produce has been at a minimum. Try to buy fruits and vegetables during their season, this will help avoid produce which has been sprayed or treated in some way for preservation. Plus they are usually tastier when in season. Try to avoid falling into the trap of buying anything that says “organic” on it. Do a bit of research first to find out if the product was manufactured in an environmental and sustainable way. Then you can feel good about knowing that the materials gathered where grown in a safe way, the way it was manufactured was safe, and so the final product is safe too. Carry on the organic trend post-use of the product. Get into composting, recycling and reusing materials. Remember, it is the big picture which is what organics is about, not the final end product. Get into organics yourself! Try potting some fruits and vegetables, if you have the space and time, in your own home. This way you will be sure that what you are consuming is wholly natural, it will cost you less in the long run and it will provide you with peace of mind. By Miral Maalouf PUSHMAG.ME

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Teaching

s parents, we tend to use the word “respect” when talking to our kids about their behavior towards others: A teacher, an uncle, or a neighbor. But seldom do we use it encourage behavior towards our environment: An animal, a beautiful garden, or clean water from a spring. R e s p e c t i n g n a t u re d o e s n ' t come naturally to children. It takes an understanding of the affects that their behavior has on the environment. Even though they might learn this over time, it is our responsibility as adults to teach them how deter damage they may unknowingly cause. Here are a few tips on how to do that: Start Early: Habits form at an early age; so a child who learns to turn off the tap water while brushing his teeth as part of “the brushing routine”, then he will probably end up doing so all his adult life. Talk Trash: Teach your children to ALWAYS throw their garbage in the trash PUSHMAG.ME

can. Inform them that the trash destroys the plants and can pose a hazard to animals that might eat it. Tell your kids if a trash can isn't available to put it in their pockets or hold on to it until they can find one. Feed Them Not: Educate your children on the effects that feeding wild animals can have on the environment. Feeding wild animals entices them to invade campsites or homes, putting them at risk for capture or killing by angry or scared people. It also teaches animals that it is easier to beg for food from humans than it is to catch their own. Stay Off the Grass: Inform your children about staying on trails when hiking or going for a walk. Walking off trail crushes plants and flowers native to the area and may ruin the den of wild animals. Staying on the trail also protects your children by lessening the likelihood that they will get lost or bitten by a snake, insect or wild animal. No Picking: Talk to your children about the damage that picking plants or flowers can have on nature. Plants that they pick may drop seeds in different areas, causing them to grow in another area. The transplanted foliage may not be native to the area and can overpower the ones that need to grow there to sustain the local habitat. Your Home Is Not Their Home: Help your children to understand the affects of removing an animal from his home. Animals set up home in an area where they can find food and

provide natural benefits to the environment, such as keeping the insect population under control. In order to show respect for nature the animals must remain where you find them do benefit the ecosystem. Constant Contact: Get the kids OUTDOORS as often as you can. The culture of children playing outside is almost gone and their everyday life has shifted to the indoors. As a result, children's opportunity for direct and spontaneous contact with nature is a vanishing experience of childhood! They are losing the understanding that nature exists in their own backyards and neighborhoods, which further disconnects them from knowledge and appreciation of the natural world. Research is clearly substantiating that a n a f fi n i t y t o a n d l o v e o f nature, along with a positive environmental ethic, grow out of children's regular contact with and play in the natural. By Dania Boustany

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An Ancient Beauty Secret and the richest natural ingredient for your skin! Honey

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FACIAL SCRUB 1 tbs honey 1 tbs sugar (or crushed almond) A squeeze of lemon

EYES 1 tsp honey Cucumber juice Lemon juice

DIRECTIONS: Mix the ingredients together and place the scrub on your face & neck from 10-15 minutes. Best done twice a week.

DIRECTIONS: Mix the ingredients above and use as an eye mask. Its helps remove dark circles and nourishes the eye area. Best done twice a week

HAIR 2 tbs of honey 4 glasses of water

FACIAL MASK 1 tbs honey 1 egg white 1 tsp glycerine (optional) 1/4 cup flour DIRECTIONS: Mix the ingredients to form a paste. Place on face and neck for 10-15 minutes. This will cause your skin to become firm and vibrant. Best done twice a week.

DIRECTIONS: Mix 2 tbs of honey with 4 glasses of water and use as the last rinse in your shower. It will leave your hair naturally shiny and alive. Best done twice a week. SKIN Honey Mashed Banana Lemon juice and margarine Add your regular body cream

HANDS & FEET 1 tbs Honey 1 Avocado 1 tbs Lemon Juice DIRECTIONS: Mash the avocado and mix it with the honey and lemon juice. Place on your hands and feet. This will help remove the cracks and it will soften these areas. If you need to walk around for those 10-15 minutes, use saran wrap.

DIRECTIONS: Make a paste with the ingredients above and place it all over your body before you take a shower. Wait 10 -15 minutes. It will nourish and smooth your skin giving it a beautiful glow.

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MONEY MADAM

THE SPRING BUG S

PUSHMAG.ME

o here we are ladies. The month of May, the cusp of summer as spring brings the warmth of the sun. I like to think of May as the perfect month for detoxing your life – eradicating months of excessive eating , finding yourself with the urge to organise your drawers, throwing away senseless objects and scraps of paper that wriggled their way into your life under cover of winter. Of course, it is easy to overhaul your living space, touching tangible objects and chucking them in the bin. But what about more serious matters in life? Yes, I am talking about your bank account and credit card sins. In fact, a financial detox and a strict diet of environmentally friendly investments do not make a bad combination. It’s a bit like going on a diet and promising yourself a new lifestyle of healthy consumption within the world of organic produce and less toxic household cleaning products.

humid conditions inside. Egypt is also playing the eco-sustainability game via a 5 year project starting in 2012. It plans to build a $700 million 100MW solar power plant, with the aim of establishing the country as one of the leading developers of utility scale solar plants, targeting to supply 20% of its energy from renewable resources in 2020. One point to note is that this is Egypt’s second major solar plant.

If you are looking for inspiration, you need look no further than you or your neighbour’s back yard. I am proud to present Abu Dhabi’s initiative within the foray of Masdar City. The government has ambitions to develop it as an environmentally sustainable city via solar power initiatives. Another contender is Jordan’s Sahara Forest Project Foundation/Screenergy. The project aims to turn the arid desert land into a green oasis, enabling the production of fresh water, food and renewable energy. The main elements being used are saltwater greenhouses, concentrated solar energy and the cultivation of traditional and energy crops. The process involves using evaporated seawater from grilles in front of greenhouses to create cool

There are many good reasons for thinking about taking a longterm investment view on green technology. The advent of oil’s gradual depletion of reserves and subsequent high price (currently $112 a barrel at the time of writing), due to Middle Eastern political instability and the nuclear issues facing Japan’s recent natural disasters points to a need to look at renewable energy once again.

From this, and many other smaller projects, we are seeing a shift in the Middle Eastern psyche, with an appreciation for the benefits and potential of green technology. Considering densely populated regions like Egypt and the high demand for power, it is a positive step in cleaning up the region of highly polluting machinery, providing cleaner air and a better opportunity for good health. The trickle down effect in the long run will hopefully lead to better health for the individual on the street.

Water is another fundamental problem that requires contemplation, as populations explode within emerging countries whose infrastructure requirements demand further planning and investment. A perfect example is Kenya, which relies on hydro-electric generation for 60% of its energy.

Guerlain Idylle EDT_FPC Eng Ad_PUSH Magazine Sz (210 x 280 mm).ai

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The country has faced difficulties during severe droughts, leading to supply problems. As a result, it has plans to significantly increase its reliance on renewable energy resources by 2013. So how can you profit from this rising trend? If you are not sure of the performance of individual companies, you can spread your risk via investing in funds like the PowerShares Global Clean Energy (NYSE:PBD) and iShares S&P Global Clean Energy Index (Nasdaq:ICLN). Let us take a closer look at PowerShares Global Clean Energy. In the chart below, you can see an overall upward trend in the PowerShares Global Clean Energy Fund listed on the New York Stock Exchange. This fund was initially set up on June 13, 2007, with current net assets of $211 million. The fund normally invests at least 80% of its total assets in securities of companies engaged in the business of the advancement of cleaner energy and conservation, including ADRs (American Depositary Receipts*). It is based on stocks in the Wilderhill New Energy Global Index, which it uses as its performance benchmark. By this we mean that the aim of the fund is to perform at least as well as the Wilderhill New Energy Global Index, if not better. This means that in the evaluation process, if the PowerShares Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) produces a better return than the overall performance of the Wilderhill New Energy Global Index, it has done its job for the investor, who benefits from the higher returns. Every fund in existence chooses a relative index as a performance benchmark to compare itself to. Some funds track the UK FTSE Indices, others the S&P 500 in the US, CAC 40 in France, DAX 30 in Germany and so on – depending on the stocks the fund has chosen. Its year to date market return has been a positive 12.61%. As an investor, you should be aware of the risks involved w i t h re g a rd s t o i n v e s t i n g . PUSHMAG.ME

Source: Yahoo! Finance

* An American Depositary Receipt (abbreviated ADR) represents ownership in the shares of a non-U.S. company that trades in U.S. financial markets. The stock of many non-US companies trade on US stock exchanges through the use of ADRs. ADRs enable American investors to buy shares in foreign companies without the hazards or inconveniences of cross-border & cross-currency transactions. ADRs carry prices in US dollars, pay dividends in US dollars, and can be traded like the shares of US-based companies.

For example PowerShares is an exchange traded fund (ETF). These Funds hold baskets of assets such as stocks, commodities or bonds. Shares within the fund are sometimes not actively managed. The ETF is then traded as a single entity on exchanges. Although investing in ETFs is a cheaper way to gain access to a wider range of stocks, a wise investor should find out what are the individual components that make up the basket of assets. Just imagine the consequences if the fund manager has more of the portfolio invested in volatile stocks than your risk appetite can cope with. I would always suggest you research not only sectors, but investment instruments such as ETFs and how they work before committing your funds. You can do this by going into their individual websites and reading about the fund manager’s portfolio strategy, performance benchmark, management fees and so on. The more technical understanding you have of each fund and the sector as a whole, the clearer the picture becomes, allowing you to make an informed decision. By investing your money in E T F s i n i t i a l l y, k e e p i n g a n eye out on the news and researching the components of the basket, you will begin to profile the green technology

sector better and increasingly find single stock investment opportunities in the process. The crux of the matter here is that there is money to be made as nations re-visit their renewable energy policies on the back of multiple issues – particularly in the wake of the J a p a n e s e n u c l e a r t r a g e d y. Analysts are even taking the view that this field could become mainstream this year. The World Economic Forum has reported a 2010 increase of 30% in global spending within Cleantech and renewable energy vs the previous year’s $186 bln spend. Investment across Europe, the Middle East and Africa rose to $94.4 billion, while the Americas saw a rise of $17 billion. Since 2004, the clean energy sector has seen a 630% growth in investments and project financing. This trend is expected to continue despite the lack of a federal climate or energy bill in the United States (the world’s leading economy) and any potential reduction in feedin tariffs. Analysts predict that high and rising traditional energy costs will ultimately increase demand for renewable sources, as scalability makes this arena more profitable for investors.

You can now follow TheMoneyMadam on twitter or contact her at moneymadam@pushmag.me

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WOMAN OF THE MONTH Margaret Sanger

Birth control pioneer and social reformer Famous for advocating birth control and women’s health, Margaret Sanger originally studied to become a nurse and practiced the profession for several years. Through the interaction with poor and underprivileged women, she came to realize the devastating effects of unplanned pregnancies. In fact, Sanger’s mother suffered from health problems because she had given birth to 11 children. Hence, Sanger became convinced that birth control (a term she coined) is of utmost importance to the health and wellbeing of all women. She quit her work as a nurse in 1912 to dedicate her time and effort to spreading birth-control information to woman. And so, Sanger contributed health articles to the Socialist Party paper. And in 1913, she founded the paper ‘Woman Rebel’. However, she had to flee to Europe when she was indicted for “mailing obscenities” – the indictment was later withdrawn. In 1914, she founded the National Birth Control League. Then in 1916, Sanger established the first birth control clinic in the United States. She was arrested and prosecuted several times, and this led ultimately to vital changes in laws. Consequently, physicians were granted the permission to dole out birth control advice and, later, birth control devices to patients. Sanger also played an instrumental role in organizing the first World Population Conference in Geneva in 1927. She also wrote several books and articles on the topics of birth control and marriage, in addition to an autobiography. Nowadays, those who oppose abortion and birth control attack and slander Sanger. But there are those who also support her movement and consider the accusations against her to be false.

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THE GREEN ISSUE

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BOOK

OF THE MONTH THOMAS L. FRIEDMAN Hot, Flat, and Crowded

n this brilliant, essential book, Pulitzer Prizewinning author Thomas L. Friedman speaks to America's urgent need for national renewal and explains how a green revolution can bring about both a sustainable environment and a sustainable America. Friedman explains how global warming, rapidly growing populations, and the expansion of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s middle class through globalization have produced a dangerously unstable planet--one that is "hot, flat, and crowded." In this Release 2.0 edition, he also shows how the very habits that led us to ravage the natural world led to the meltdown of the financial markets and the Great Recession. The challenge of a sustainable way of life presents the United States with an opportunity not only to rebuild its economy, but to lead the world in radically innovating toward cleaner energy. And it could inspire Americans to do something we haven't seen in a long time--nation-building in America--by summoning the intelligence, creativity, and concern for the common good that are our greatest national resources. Hot, Flat, and Crowded is classic Thomas L. Friedman: fearless, incisive, forward-looking, and rich in surprising common sense about the challenge--and the promise--of the future.

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THE GREEN ISSUE

SAUDI ARABIA:

Towards a Green Lifestyle

Massive public sector spending and salary bonuses recently announced by the Saudi government will leave consumers with higher disposable income by the end of each month. Food and cosmetics are key areas where a proportion of income will be spent. But the key question is - in what kind of food and cosmetics?

Saudi Arabia consumes 75% of fast food in the Gulf and is home to 29 of the 60 fast food factories in the region. It has also invested $325 million in the production of process food in 2005 (GOIC). 45 % of women and 34 % men are obese (KSFHRC). These figures are a ticking-time bomb and if we in this generation do not empower ourselves and make smart choices, we will continue to produce a ‘processed’ generation for the next decades. Women in the kingdom also spend among the highest per capita sum on cosmetics in the world - In 2009, the sum was around $2.4 billion. As consumers we are less concerned to check if cosmetics we are purchasing and using are expired or not - let alone if they are organic – though, we are consciously aware what we put on our skin eventually end up inside our bodies. Like organic food, organic beauty products are made with superior ingredients which have less harmful affect on our bodies. I do not hope to take readers on a guilt-ride! And I am definitely not going to write ‘stop eating fast food’ or processed food, but I am passionately going to encourage ‘start buying organic food’, prepare ‘slow food’ and be conscious when purchasing cosmetics.

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Experiment and observe - yourself and your family and then decide. More importantly, treat your bodies as an asset as you do with a financial, tangible or a social asset since, “Those who think they have no time for healthy eating will sooner or later have to find time for illness.” – Edward Stanley. “We are what we eat”, says Mona Dabbagh, a biochemistry major and promotes natural, health and non-toxic lifestyle in Saudi via her facebook group. “If we want to be physically, mentally and emotionally healthy and live with more vitality and greater sense of well being – we must have a great source to obtain the energy we need, by consuming natural, organic, nonprocessed, non-chemical food and being in harmony with the environment. Let every individual and institution now think and act as a responsible trustee of Earth.”

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Inaya not only seeks to provide healthy alternatives but also passionately aims to educate ordinary people. They plan on holding talks, courses, seminars and workshops delivered by internationally-renowned experts in health, nutrition and education on the nutritional content of food and Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs.)

Organic firms BioBEST is the first complete organic store in Saudi Arabia based in Riyadh. It was launched in order to tap into a market where products often lack the daily nutrition our bodies require. The business serves three sections including variety of food products covering almost anything one would find in a supermarket e.g. cereals, fruit jams, honey, tea, grain powder, lentils, beans, pasta, spices, soups and sauces and much more! It also has a section on organic beauty products catered to women, men and infants. “BioBEST is not just a health store, it’s much more than that - it’s a lifestyle’ says Munawar Khan, business development manager at BioBEST. The firm deals with world renowned companies and experts, making the best out of organic skincare.

‘Eating healthier obviously leads to better health and ultimately lesser hospital bills!’ exclaims Khan. ‘The difficult task for us is to educate the public - as the general view on organic is that it’s expensive. It is, certainly - but you get better value from goods as well. We hear fruits are high in vitamins, but do we know an apple available in the supermarket has less than 30% of its nutritional value as compared to organic apple? We don’t actually carry apples and that’s due to one major challenge we face; the lack of organic farming in the Kingdom.” He adds. Other category includes natural supplements including macrobiotic, gluten-free and Diet. Gluten-free products are essential requirement in diet for children suffering from autism. “Instead of preparing boring rice products for children, mothers can get a huge variety of products providing variety for their children and so their diet doesn’t look different.” says Khan. Inaya Organic Ltd for example also provides highquality nutritious foodstuffs, food supplements, household cleaning and beauty products to the Saudi market. Based in UK and led by Mounir Torabi, a qualified homeopath with a broad international clientele and Keir Giles, the director of Oxford School of Reflexology.

“We are trying to show that healthy food can be just as tasty and exciting as the highlyprocessed, high-fat, high-sugar alternative.’ Says kier ‘ Women have a key role to play in this educational process, since working with children is a vital aspect, the dietary habits we lay down in early years tend to stay with us throughout life. So it’s important to get it right from the beginning.” He adds. One of the hardest things in life is to alter buying habits, be it food, cosmetics or other products. Adapting to new way of life is challenging and requires effort. When switching to the healthier and safer options as consumers, do not let yourself be overwhelmed by the amount of things you need to consider before buying a product. But at the same time you must realize that the time invested is worth the trouble because your new education and lifestyle will impact your life, your family and your community. By Farhaa Xha PUSHMAG.ME

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THE GREEN ISSUE

Being green conscious has become a deeply held cause embraced by many of HollywoodĂs elite. A wide array of stars have made it an avocation to champion their favorite environmental and green causes. Many are advocates for every aspect of saving the environment while some lend their names and influence to specific areas.

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JULIA ROBERTS Seven years on from her Oscar-winning portrayal of real-life environmentalist Erin Brokovich, Julia Robertsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s concerns for saving the planet have evolved beyond the confines of the movie screen. The actress cites motherhood as the inspiration for her green crusade, which extends from building a solar-powered home for her family to campaigning for the use of biodiesel on state school buses.

BRAD PITT Actor Brad Pitt is helping to rebuild Katrina-ravaged New Orleans - and donating $5 million of his own money - to Make It Right (makeitrightnola.org), an adopt-a-green-home campaign that he hopes will help restore the still storm ravaged Lower 9 th Ward. For every $150,000 that comes in, a family will get a home. And not just any house - these will be so eco-friendly and disasterproof, they'll even float!

THE GREEN ISSUE

PENELOPE CRUZ Over the past few years Penélope Cruz has become an active force in mobilising the Hollywood community to campaign on issues ranging from world poverty (RED and One campaign) to human rights and, more recently, she has joined the ecological debate. A supporter of Global Green, she launched the Red Carpet/Green Cars Oscar campaign and is a leading advocate of its Greenest City challenge, which sees cities across the US compete to win a fleet of eco-friendly cabs.

LEONARDO DICAPRIO Leonardo DiCaprio has long been the most outspoken celebrity about environmental issues. He even encouraged other celebrities to arrive at the 2007 Oscars in hybrid vehicles. In 2010, his environmental work earned DiCaprio a nomination for the VH1 Do Something Award. This year, Leo is releasing a documentary on global warming titled 'The 11th Hour.'

SIENNA MILLER Eco princess Sienna Miller has offered her celebrity clout to the Global Cool initiative. As their ambassador, she p ro m o t e s t h e i r 1 0 - y e a r campaign to encourage people to reduce their CO2 emissions by one ton. Taking part in the charity’s SMS initiative, Sienna, along with other celebrities, will reward subscribers in Britain and the United States with two text messages a month offering tips on saving energy.

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PIERCE BROSNAN Pierce Brosnan and his wife Keely Shaye are committed e n v i ro n m e n t a l i s t s , w i t h interests that include clean air and water campaigns, marine mammal and wetland protection, and opposing environmentally disruptive projects such as the Cabrillo Port Liquefied Natural Gas facility being proposed off the coast of Malibu. One of Pierce’s environmental passions has been working w i t h t h e e n v i ro n m e n t a l advocacy group the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) in their efforts to stop the Navy deployment of sonar systems that have been shown to kill whales, dolphins, seals and other marine mammals.

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THE GREEN ISSUE

GREEN CLOTHES Green is now the new black. The words ‘eco-friendly’ and ‘green fashion’ are reverberating throughout the hautest of fashion circles. From hot shots like Versace, Jil Sander & Narciso Rodriguez to rising stars such as Linda Loudermilk, Kate O'Connor, Sara Kirsner and Anna Cohen, eco-aware designers are on the forefront of moving both fashion design and the global fashion industry toward more sustainable practices that support environment and social justice!

HUMANITARIAN AND ROCK STAR BONO AND HIS WIFE ALI HEWSON: In 2006 they launched their EDUN clothing line. Edun specializes in organic and ethically-sourced clothing. Edun uses certified organic cotton that was grown, ginned, milled, and stitched entirely in sub-Saharan Africa, meaning the value chain remains there and helps to create jobs and a higher standard of living.

KATE MOSS, JADE JAGGER, AND GWYNETH PALTROW: They launched an eco-edgy collection for The Climate Change Project. The L.E.N.Y (Limited Edition New York) tee shirts are designed by them in an effort to raise awareness about global warming and environmental issues. Made from recycled materials, these T-shirts have no chemical finishes, with part of the proceeds going to the project.

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THE GREEN ISSUE

STELLA MCCARTNEY: Sport an enviro-friendly bag this season from LeSportSac. Renowned designer, Stella McCartney has teamed up with LeSportSac to create an eco-trendy accessories line embodying her lifestyle for the woman-on-the-go. Recycled materials such as nylon and scrap fabric make these bags versatile and durable enough to carry your groceries, yet superchic and sleek for a night out on town. Grab an everyday tote which is roomy enough to fit a laptop or the small bowling bag which has a great zip-around-bottom for shoes or even cosmetics. Who said luxury couldn’t be practical, and green?

JOHN PATRICK: The designer of Organic, which he founded in 2004. His production—from spinning and weaving to dyeing and sewing—is based mostly in Peru and uses organic materials. "I realized that I could make things I loved, not just racks of products that were disposable after one season."

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PHILLIP LIM: His new collection for Barneys New York, Go Green Go, uses high-quality, undyed organic fabrics. Lim's easy, streamlined, totally unboring clothes bring a certain sleekness to the organic realm.

LINDA LOUDERMILK: Linda Loudermilk has been credited with the introduction of luxury eco-friendly clothing. She has been acclaimed for designing and creating p o l i s h e d a n d r e fi n e d clothes manufactured form hundred percent organic f a b r i c s m a d e f ro m s e l f sustaining and exotic plants like soya, sea cell, sasawashi and bamboo. Protecting and conserving nature becomes simple, easy and beautiful with Loudermilk’s lovely clothes. She has truly changed the way that designers see organic clothing.

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THE GREEN ISSUE

pring is here, and you know what that means: spring cleaning! For most of us, it’s a nuisance, but it can be cathartic to rid of yourself of old clothes and other items cluttering your environment.

WE COULDN’T HELP BUT WONDER…

Some claim the origins of spring cleaning date back to the Persian New Year, or Iranian Norouz, which falls on the first day of spring. Iranians practice "khooneh tekouni" which literally translates to "shaking the house". This is when everything in the house is thoroughly cleaned, like the drapes, carpets, cupboards and furniture. In Greece, and other Orthodox nations, it is traditional to clean the house either before or during the first week of Great Lent, which is referred to as Clean Week. This also corresponds with the Julian New Year, or April 1.

Spring cleaning tips: Work each room from the top down, inside to outside, to avoid getting what you already cleaned dirty again. Do one room at a time to avoid unfinished jobs. The satisfaction of seeing one room done will motivate you to keep going When tidying up, reduce trips around the house by temporarily depositing items in one spot. This will not be their permanent location but it will be en route to their final destination. If you're naturally gifted at fixing things, do so. Otherwise, hire someone. Invest in good rubber or vinyl gloves to protect your skin and nails. Carry the tools you use often, like glass cleaner or a cloth, to save time and energy. Hang supplies from your belt or vacuum, keeping everything you need at your fingertips. This tip may sound odd, but it's one of the best for saving time. Let the tools and chemicals do the work. You would be surprised how many people rush this step and don't get as much benefit from cleaning products. Read the labels and use exactly as directed to get the best results. You can also buy one product that can clean several different things; doing this will eliminate two extra bottles from your cleaning kit. Analyze the job and do two things at once. While a chemical is working on the bathroom tile, shine the glass mirror. While you are vacuuming, use a microfiber cloth and duster to dust and vacuum simultaneously. You can also clean the microwave by zapping a cup of hot water until it boils inside the microwave oven—the steam will work on any spills inside—then wipe the microwave clean with a cloth. Adding lemon juice to the water leaves a fresh scent, and the lemony steam helps cut grease. While that's working, clean the kitchen cabinets. Spring cleaning can be fun but can be a lot of work. But if you follow these tips, you would be cleaning smart, not hard. Have a Clean Spring!

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Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs

CHANGE YOUR HABITS, NOT YOUR NATURE

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LAST BUT NOT LEAST

“The best time to plant an oak tree was 25 years ago. The second best time is today.” James Carville

NERDY FACTS In the late 15 th century Leonardo da Vinci already conceived of an industrial use of solar power b y e m p l o y i n g c o n c a v e m i r ro r s t o h e a t w a t e r. There are many benefits of recycling objects. Recycling aluminum can save enough electricity to power a television for three hours. If one ton of paper gets recycled, it saves 4,100 kilowatts of energy, 17 trees and 60 pounds of air pollution. If a ton of glass gets recycled, it can save 9 gallons of oil.

TERM OF THE MONTH TREE HUGGER

A derogatory term for environmentalists who support restrictions on the logging industry and the preservation of forests PUSHMAG.ME

Due to global warming and the population boom, most Asian countries will face acute water shortages by the year 2025. Still, many people waste water as if there is plenty available. But the truth is that less than one percent of world’s fresh water is available for human consumption. D e f o re s t a t i o n i s o n e o f t h e m a i n c a u s e s o f atmospheric carbondioxide; burning and cutting millions of acres of trees each year, it is responsible for 20-25 percent of all carbon emissions. Enough sunlight falls on the earth's surface every hour to meet world energy demand for an entire year. Every time we burn oil, coal and gas to generate electricity and power, we produce the heat trapping gases that cause global warming It takes half a barrel of crude oil to produce the rubber for just one truck tire. Australia has enough unused geothermal power to provide energy for thousands of years. Only one percent of the available geothermal power in Australia can provide energy for 26,000 years.

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41% of young Arabs say they never heard of climate change or global warming Energy saved from one recycled aluminum can will operate a TV set for 3 hours, and is the equivalent to half a can of gasoline. Every day 50 to 100 species of plants and animals become extinct as their habitat and human influences destroy them. Every ton of recycled office paper saves 380 gallons of oil. Over 40% of the world’s oxygen is produced by rainforests. Only 2.5 of all the water on Earth is fresh- and about two-thirds of that is frozen. That leaves less than one percent to grow our crops, cool our power plants, and supply drinking and bathing water for households.

ECO SHOPPING: KNOW WHAT YOU ARE BUYING! Key terms you need to know when purchasing environmentally conscious products: Fair Trade refers to products created ethically—with sustainable (see below) farming methods, support for local communities' economic development, and safe, equitable working conditions. Reclaimed or recycled materials are rescued from the garbage dump and turned into new products (plastic bottles reborn as fleece jackets; old magazines become packaging).

such as solar or wind power instead of nonrenewable oil, or fast-growing plants like bamboo. Sustainable practices do no lasting harm to the Earth's resources, valuing the survival of future generations over immediate needs. Vegan is a form of vegetarianism that excludes all animal ingredients or byproducts such as leather and wool.

Renewable resources can be replenished, so they're not permanently depleted—alternate-energy sources

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LAST BUT NOT LEAST

Organic Barbeque Chicken

rganic free range chickens simply have more flavor, and are healthier for you. Try this organic barbeque chicken recipe; use organic free range chickens for the best result. Preparation

Preheat oven to 500 degrees F. In a small saucepan, over medium heat, mix the first six ingredients to form a sauce. Season to taste with mustard, oregano, chili powder, salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce for 15 minutes. Place the chicken thighs into a baking dish and pour the sauce over them. Cover tightly. Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven and then reduce the temperature to 300 degrees F. Bake for one hour. Remove cover. Drizzle pan sauce over chicken and bake uncovered for 15 minutes. Organic free range chickens provide a delicious flavor, a healthier food, and a bit of ecological awareness as well.

3 tablespoons apple juice 3 tablespoons ketchup 3 tablespoons molasses 2 tablespoons white vinegar 1 tablespoon lemon juice 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce 1 teaspoon dry mustard 1 teaspoon oregano 1 teaspoon chili powder 1 whole organic chicken, cut up Note: Most, if not all of these spices and flavorings are available in a certified organic form, available in any organic food stores.

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THE GREEN ISSUE

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DECISIONS MAKE DESTINIES

“Decisions Make Destinies” took place at the Theater of the UNESCO Palace, March 30th. “This seminar is unique in Lebanon, in terms of its motivational approach,” said Ms. Samia El-Solh, “and is one of the first to be delivered by a professional life coach, Dr. Hady Safa, author of a book by the same title. We believe that the collaboration between our two entities will be a great asset to our combined audiences and I’m honored to be taking part in this exceptional event.” Dr. Safa, also a talent management specialist, explained that “this seminar aims to improve the way people think about themselves, and their environment, to overcome their limitations and to step toward success, making [life] a journey and not a destination.” Featured speakers will include other self-made individuals who will share their personal experiences and success stories, like Mr. Edmund Haddad, lead anchor of Ein-Stein, the general information trivia program, and a successful writer and comedian; and Mr. George Khabbaz, the successful actor, director and comedian.

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LAST BUT NOT LEAST

Networking Breakfast At Fiona's

Beirut- April 16, 2011 The Lebanese League for Women in Business met with its members and new members at Fiona's restaurant in downtown Beirut. The members networking breakfast was to announce the LLWB's collaboration with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization through Enterprise Development & Investment Promotion Program. For more information on how the Arab Regional Center For Entrepreneurship And Investment Training program can help you and your business call 01-353390 Ext. 301

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ARE YOU ON THE LIST

THE NEW FEMININE FRAGRANCE 212areyouonthelist.com

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LAST BUT NOT LEAST

LEBANON’S CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY (CSR) CONFERENCE “Unveiling the Moral Purpose of Business”

Under the High Patronage of His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Lebanon, General Michel Sleiman, World Trade Center – Beirut (WTC) and United Management Bureau (UMB) had the pleasure to launch the Lebanon’s annual Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) conference, “Unveiling the Moral Purpose of Business” on Thursday April 14, 2011, at the Moevenpick Hotel Beirut. The conference was attended by representatives of Lebanese companies and a number of international experts and ambassadors in Lebanon.

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THE GREEN ISSUE

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NOT SO

Is it appropriate business etiquette to decorate my working area? I have a lot of personality, and I like to show it. Hala K., Lebanon

I despise name tags. Wearing them during business functions makes me feel odd, and it ruins my clothes. What should I do? Lama. R. Jordan

Dear Miss Personality, We s p e n d a l o t o f t i m e i n o u r work areas and sometimes a little personalization ads comfort to the experience. Having said that, there are limits to what you can do. While it's your personal space, it is still part of a larger office and you must project a positive image of yourself and your company. The best course of action to take is to look around the office. If framed pictures, drawings and “knickknacks” are the norm, then sprucing up your desk isn’t an issue. But use moderation; you don't want your cubicle to stick out like a circus booth. Another way to approach this is by taking cues from upper-management. Observe how they dress, how they interact with other employees and, in your case, how they decorate. This will not only help your problem but can also give you a competitive advantage over your fellow co-workers.

Dear Lama. R., Name tags have their uses, like saving you the embarrassment of not knowing the name of the person you’ve been working with for years. But that peel-and-stick paper can be a hassle to remove. One the other hand, not wearing one could send the wrong message making you seem less than a team player and more like the office Scrooge. For the next event, suggest tags that clasp on your clothing magnetically. Or propose tags that go around the neck. As a business woman, you will have to endure this pain every now and again, so my advice is if you have to wear one, wear it right. Place the paper in on top of you pectorals, which is the area below the collar bone and above the chest. And, for heaven’s sake, when you write your name, write it legibly, or else, what’s the point?

For general business advice or office etiquette questions, email us to: feedback@pushmag.me

I work at a small architectural firm. If the receptionist is on the other line or is at lunch, the rest of us have to pick up the phone within two rings. I think it should roll to voicemail because then we can ensure that everyone gets the message. And what’s worse is that, instead of having a computerized telephonic message retrieving system, we use memo pads! Half the time, it would be an angry caller complaining about something or the other. HELP! Dear M.H., Yes, too many small offices still use message pads because they are cheaper than a phone system with multi userinterfaces. As for the rest of your question, I suspect the problem is your attitude. You don’t want to answer the phone because it is not for you. Well, so what? You may learn something: It could be an engineer, or a city planner. Or it could be a prospective client with an impressive project. It could be an opportunity ringing and all you have to do is pick up! Having a call go straight to voice mail sometimes aggravates clients. The more time you spend on the phone with a caller, the more he or she will remember your name. And such good customer service will be greatly appreciated. In short, you should lose the ‘tude! Demonstrating good office etiquette could set you apart from your co-workers. PUSHMAG.ME

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LAST BUT NOT LEAST

OX RAT

Born in the year: 1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008

WORK:

Facing financial problems head on might be something you are dreading. Bear in mind that you have far more capabilities than you think you do. Don’t sell yourself too short because you can persevere, even in bleak circumstances. To be successful you must turn every disadvantage into an opportunity and that takes confidence in yourself and your abilities. If you are waiting on a promotion, or a big project, don’t force it; let the situation mature at an even pace.

LOVE: In most relationships, it is easy to allow little problems to

overshadow the positives. Don’t rush a “quick fix” because these issues need time to fully resolve. In the meantime, do your best to focus on life's joys, like family and friends. Having a winning attitude can change your negative perspectives.

HEALTH:

With major events altering your life, getting a “fresh start” doesn’t seem possible right now. But you should think of the pot at the end of the rainbow. Try to remove yourself from the slump otherwise you will miss out in the astonishing events the coming weeks bring your way.

TIGER

Born in the year: 1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010

WORK: Powerful changes are suddenly

reshaping your life and your environment. You will find yourself in new social situations that will prove amazingly useful for your career. You are not willing to tighten your belt which may lead to some unpaid bills at the end of the month. Fortunately, you'll have a completely unexpected money entry.

LOVE: The amount of drama you faced last month would bring

anyone to their knees. There are deep personal issues which need to be dealt with. And that requires the kind of reflection that is challenging. This will be demanding, but where you reach afterwards will justify the effort.

HEALTH:

This month you seem to be making your health a priority. Keep up the good work, even when maintaining a healthy living proves difficult. This is a perfect time to go on a diet, start excising and changing your eating habits because your failures and sufferings will surely pay off. PUSHMAG.ME

Born in the year: 1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009

WORK: Go ahead and take chances.

The worst that can happen is that you will learn something; the resulting experiences could also lead to amazing breakthroughs. A project that you really have your heart set on will require a lot of effort, but success is guaranteed.

LOVE: Your love affair is on a roller coaster. You indulging somebody

you care about or pretending things are solid when they are not. Whatever the case you will realize what must be done. Challenging as this is, it is the first step to shedding unnecessary obligations and freeing yourself for new discoveries. Look forward to life and try adopting positive attitudes.

HEALTH:

You will have a relaxing atmosphere in your home this month which will give you time to explore intriguing new ideas that could substantially alter your thinking and priorities. Closely watch over your children's health; make sure they are up-to-date with their vaccinations.

RABBIT

Born in the year: 1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999

WORK:

Don't be too demanding towards other people; be aware that nobody's perfect, not even you! Your family financial status will be problematic; try to be diplomatic and authoritarian at the same time; bring the others back to common sense. If you find yourself in a financial fix, make out your accounts and draw up a tight budget. Momentary disagreement with your partner about money will arise but will be resolved shortly.

LOVE: When you commit to a relationship, you give it your all. Currently that same unshakeable focus could cause you real problems. The basis on which commitments were made is likely to change direction at a radical place. You will be more sensible at the end and make the right choice.

HEALTH: Just when you thought certain promising arrangements

were in place, things begin to fall apart. However at almost the same moment, new and far better options appear. Get used to this combination of gains and losses during this period. Each will alter your perspective on what is in your best interests. What you learn will change your thinking and ultimately your life.

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SNAKE

Born in the year: 1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001

WORK: Last minute changes are likely

DRAGON

Born in the year: 1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000

WORK:

Even when your views differ from others, you are able to conduct constructive exchanges. But you are better off stepping back, avoiding hazy scenarios. Let others make their choices and when the dust settles later in the month, rejoin them to discuss the future and bring the situation again. Financial matters will require all your attention; get back what people owe you.

LOVE: Many of your doubts about your romance will be dealt with

by the end of the month. What you feel you can tolerate now will soon become unbearable. Even worse, your situation could interfere with remarkable new developments that are approaching.

to annoy you this month. However you may need to get used to it during this period. The disruptive events that are reshaping your way of living and working and those of others will prove worthwhile. For now expect chaos and be well prepared. Knowing that, you will ensure even the simplest of plans is flexible enough to ride the storm. Play at some game of fortune by choosing numbers 5, 6, 8, and 9. Avoid taking important steps, going on a long trip, or starting a big project.

LOVE: Recently you have observed those closest to you are making

bizarre decisions. You are being supportive but you are keeping your thoughts and concerns to yourself. Your silence is being interpreted as approval and trust. The payoff will come and rather spectacularly around the middle of the month. Recent romantic disappointments have discouraged you in the past but this month, an encounter will take place.

HEALTH: Life may have ups and downs, but none of that upsets

you. Events are simultaneously thrilling, but sometimes can be disruptive. Don’t waste your time analyzing; just take each day as it comes. Be polite and listen when others advise caution, yet it is vital to follow your heart. If you don't have time or the desire to practice a sport, you'll imperatively have to do some exercise every day; do some jogging or hiking, which activate blood circulation, breathing, and reinforce your abdominal muscles.

HEALTH: You are battling to keep certain arrangements afloat and ignoring professional advice from others. Soon, certain events will take place that will make those necessary changes on your behalf and you will realize just how wrong you were. Try not to let personal pride hinder the positive approaches for your well-being. Also, Stop rehashing your problems; learn how to benefit fully from the present moment.

GOAT

Born in the year: 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003

WORK:

HORSE

Born in the year: 1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002

WORK:

Recent financial or practical challenges have forced you to alter certain rather exciting arrangements. While this is frustrating, you will come up with something better. Changes are frequent and for this works to your advantage. Even though you are struggling you may need to give others a helping hand. You will be amazed how your little effort may help to improve the lives of others.

LOVE: Many of your unanswered questions will not be resolved

before the end of the month. That’s why it is best to focus on the journey rather than the outcome. Who and what you encounter will then prove to be extraordinary. You are in a favorable climate when it comes to the matter of the heart and your emotional relations will evolve in a good direction. Positive changes will take place in your life: you'll make new encounters or will start more enriching activities.

In the past, new people, places and ideas appeared in your life and enchanted you. You have even built strong relationships with many, it’s time now use your networking professionally. If you are employed, great meticulousness in performance can give your work a new and positive orientation. Your ideas will be good this month just don't hesitate to show audacity. Organize your budget better and resist buying any electronics.

LOVE:

While those around you are merrily altering plans with virtually no discussion, arrangements you have struggled with have reached a frustrating stalemate. Obviously you are displeased but these delays are preventing you from getting into situations that you would regret. Amuse yourself by exploring various intriguing options and you will soon spot something far more worth your effort.

HEALTH: You will be experiencing setbacks this month. But what

is labeled a “minor setback” is actually an indication of changes in the landscape of your health, life, and work. Luckily, you will overflow with drive, energy, and enthusiasm which will make these revolutionary changes less challenging.

HEALTH: This month's events will perplex you. You will find that your logical side will wrestle with your emotional side. You should stay away from over-analyzing the situation and let nature take its course. Do the bare minimum this month; strange as this strategy might seems, you will soon recognize its wisdom.

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076

LAST BUT NOT LEAST

ROOSTER MONKEY

Born in the year: 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004

WORK: Somebody who is vital to your

plans dislikes one particular scheme, so much so that they are now refusing to discuss it, preventing you from exploring things further. It seems you are accustomed to touching base with them when you’re exploring your actions. Avoid dealing with any kind of litigious matter by requesting more time. Events will be favorable to you on the professional plane; nevertheless, intensify your efforts if you want to achieve your goals.

LOVE: when conflicts arise this month, you will encourage frank discussion instead of sparing the feelings of others. Still, you will acquire a far better understanding of situations and more importantly of each other. Your love life will suddenly bloom. This month is also ideal to take the relationship to the next level.

HEALTH: Nobody is more supportive when others are struggling

than you. After evaluating problems and discussing potential solutions, you expect your advice to be heeded by the recipient. This is unlikely which both frustrates and inflames you. Back off until you are feeling less irritable. No serious health problem to be coped with; you'll have a good appetite, but don't abuse sweet things.

Born in the year: 1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005

WORK:

Nothing irritates you more than people doubting decisions you make. Explain your intentions clearly and then busy yourself with matters you have been putting off. Luck will be on your side in a joint venture or a financial deal; this time, you can take risks.

LOVE: You find people who refuse to be direct very irritating. Things

get worse when an influence from a third-party seems to fuel the fire. You are perfectly capable of dealing with this situation and doing so will make your life and relationship a lot easier. A gust of jealousy will agitate your love relationships; try to control the situation.

HEALTH: You are usually patient with moody friends and you even

do your best to cheer them up. This month, don’t. Their grumpiness has nothing to do with you. This may sound harsh but you should ignore them and focus on getting your own life in order. You will soon realize how much you have neglected yourself while you have been catering to others.

BOAR

Born in the year: 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007

WORK:

Born in the year: 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006

This month's unexpected encounters which may have induced chaotic developments will prove to lead you somewhere positive. This should somehow comfort you because now you can patiently do what you know is right, and soon your efforts should pay off handsomely. Put your business in order; this month is a great opportunity sort out your projects and plans?

WORK: Lengthy discussions at work are

LOVE: You have avoided certain issues in hopes of avoiding the

DOG

keeping you from getting out and about. Keep yourself open to propositions from parties that express interests in your services. Financial difficulties are to be foreseen; it would be better to postpone trivial purchases.

LOVE: This month, you will want to explore your romantic options. If you feel something new and interesting, show it. But try to avoid making any commitments you cannot get out of later. The chances are great for a significant sentimental encounter. If your present relationship is lackluster, don't hesitate to provoke a break-up.

HEALTH: Be prepared for changes that manifest themselves in a

completely unexpected manner. Usually you would try to manage the unknown, but this time it will be impossible; destiny has a far better idea as to what is in your best interest.

PUSHMAG.ME

tedious discussions. However, uncompromisingly honest discussions will inevitably expose the facts that you have been ignoring. Don’t put it off any longer; discussing it now will clear the air on this subject for good. This month, you'll have a very good chance to satisfy your heart's deepest aspirations.

HEALTH: You are not only able to make wise decisions about

your own life but are also able to advise others. However, the circumstances you are in are difficult to deal with, even for you. Letting go may be completely out of character but you will have no choice but to allow destiny to take its course. Your reflexes will be slower and less precise: be careful in your gestures.

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077

SUDOKU

THE GREEN ISSUE

6 1

Bridges (also known as Hashiwokakero) is a logic puzzle with simple rules and challenging solutions. The rules are simple. Bridges is played on a rectangular grid with no standard size. Some cells start out with numbers from 1 to 8 inclusive; these are the islands. The rest of the cells are empty. The goal is to connect all of the islands into a single connected group by drawing a series of bridges between the islands. The bridges must follow certain criteria: They must begin and end at distinct islands, travelling a straight line in between They must not cross any other bridges or islands They may only run orthogonally At most two bridges connect a pair of islands The number of bridges connected to each island must match the number on that island.

PUSHMAG.ME

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LAST BUT NOT LEAST

CONFERENCES LEBANON

May 25-27 Beirut International Franchise Forum & Exhibition Al-Iktissad Wal-Aamal Group 961 1 780 200 info@iktissad.com www.iktissad.com June 14 The Lebanon Summit Four Seasons Hotel Economist Conferences 44 20 75768550 cemearegistrations@economist.com mea.economistconferences.com June 14-15 Green Business Opportunities Movenpick Hotel Infopro Events 961 1 739.777 events@infopro.com.lb www.opportunities.com.lb/green

INTERNATIONAL DUBAI May 10-11 Trade Tech Middle East Worldwide Business Research 971 4 365 4103 jeniffer.sy@wbresearch.com www.wbresearch.com May 17-18 Sixth Annual Syndicated Loans Middle East Conference Euromoney Seminars 44 2077798729 www.euromoneyseminars.com www.terrapinn.com May 21-25 Seventeenth GCC eGovernment and eServices eConference Datamatix Group 971 4 3326688 info@datamatixgroup.com www.datamatixgroup.com May 23-24 Middle East& North Africa Insurance Summit Fleming Gulf Conferences 971 4 3902764 events@jacobfleming.com www.fleminggulf May 23-25 Sixth Annual Human Assets Expansion Middle East Summit Naseba 971 44330692 samirs@naseba.com www.humanassetsmideast.com

PUSHMAG.ME

May 24-25 GCC Retail Industry Challenges Conference Datamatix Group 971 4 3326688 info@datamatixgroup.com www.datamatixgroup.com May 25 Loan and Mortgage Industry Challenges and Opportunities Conference Datamatix Group 971 4 3326688 info@datamatixgroup.com www.datamatixgroup.com Jun 15 GCC Retail Banking Future Datamatix Group 971 4 3326688 info@datamatixgroup.com www.datamatixgroup.com Jun 16 GCC Job Localization Challenges Conference Datamatix Group 971 4 3326688 info@datamatixgroup.com www.datamatixgroup.com ABU DHABI May 17-18 Digital ID World Middle East 2011 Terrapinn 44 20 7092 1000 enquiry.me@terrapinn.com www.terrapinn.com May 22-25 Fifth Annual Cost-Effective Sustainable Design& Construction Middle East IQPC Middle East 971 4 3642975 enquiry@iqpc.ae | www.iqpc.aes May 23-25 Arabian World Construction Summit 2011 MEED Conferences 971 4 3900699 www.meed.com www.terrapinn.com May 29- Jun 1 Process Industry Engineering& Maintenance Summit Mena 2011 IQPC Middle East 971 4 3642975 enquiry@iqpc.ae | www.iqpc.ae QATAR May 16-17 Seventh Annual Project Finance Forum 2011 Fleming Gulf Conferences 971 4 3902764 events@jacobfleming.com www.fleminggulf

May 16-19 Customer Service Excellence Summit Doha IIR Middle East 971 4 3352437 register@iirme.com | www.iirme.com Sep 18-21 Second Annual District Cooling Qatar Summit IQPC Middle East 971 4 3642975 enquiry@iqpc.ae | www.iqpc.ae JORDAN May 20-22 World Economic Forum on the Middle East World Economic Forum 41 22 8691212 middleeast@weforum.org www.weforum.org EGYPT May 29-Jun 2 HR Summit Cairo IIR Middle East 971 4 3352437 register@iirme.com | www.iirme.com SAUDI ARABIA June 4-7 Saudi Brand and Communications Summit IIR Middle Easts 971 4 3365161 info@iirme.com | www.iirme.com June 4-7 Third Annual Saudi HR Summit IIR Middle East 971 4 3352437 register@iirme.com | www.iirme.com KUWAIT May 8-11 Third Annual Production Optimization Middle East Summit IQPC Middle East 971 4 3642975 enquiry@iqpc.ae | www.iqpc.ae May 15-18 PPP Investment Summit Kuwait IQPC Middle East 971 4 3642975 enquiry@iqpc.ae | www.iqpc.ae

THE GREEN ISSUE

EXHIBITIONS LEBANON:

May 18-22 Beirut Boat Show La Marina Joseph Khoury International Fairs & Promotions (IFP) 961 5 959 111 info@ifp.com.lb www.ifpexpo.com May 20-22 Made in Lebanon 2011 QUALITY INN Hotel - Tripoli Exporise Fairs 961 6 425555 info@exporise.com www.exporise.com May 24-28 The Garden Show and Spring Hippodrome de Beyrouth Hospitality Services 961 1 480 081 info@hospitalityservices.com.lb www.hospitalityservices.com.lb May 31-Jun 3 Project Lebanon BIEL International Fairs & Promotions (IFP) 961 5 959 111 info@ifp.com.lb www.ifpexpo.com May 31-Jun 3 Energy Lebanon 2011 BIEL IFP Lebanon 961 5 959111 info@ifpexpo.com www.ifpexpo.com Jun 22-26 Outdoor Lebanon BIEL IFP Lebanon

INTERNATIONAL: DUBAI May 10-12 Dubai International Property and Investment Exhibition &Conference Dubai World Trade Centre 971 4 3321000 info@dwtc.com www.dwtc.com May 17-19 The Office Exhibition 2011 Dubai World Trade Centre 971 4 3321000 info@dwtc.com www.dwtc.com

079

May 17-19 The Hotel Show 2011 Dubai World Trade Centre 971 4 3321000 info@dwtc.com www.dwtc.com

May 16-19 Saudi Communications Riyadh Exhibitions Company 966 1 2295604 info@recexpo.com www.recexpo.com

31 May-2 June China Sourcing Fair 2011 Dubai World Trade Centre 971 4 3321000 info@dwc.com www.dwtc.com

May 21-24 Faรงade Design and Engineering Saudi Arabia IQPC Middle East 971 4 3642975 enquiry@iqpc.ae www.iqpc.ae

Jun 13-15 Luxury World Middle East 2011 Terrapinn 971 44402500 enquiry.me@terrapinn.com www.terrapinn.com ABU DHABI May 16-18 MECOM 2011 IIR Middle East 971 (0) 24935168 info@iirme.com www.iirme.com May 17-18 Digital ID World Middle East 2011 Terrapinn 974 44402500 enquiry.me@terrapinn.com www.terrapinn.com May 17-18 Mobile Money World Middle East 2011 Terrapinn 974 44402500 enquiry.me@terrapinn.com www.terrapinn.com May 17-18 Prepaid Cards Middle East 2011 Terrapinn 974 44402500 enquiry.me@terrapinn.com www.terrapinn.com

June 11-13 Cityscape Jeddah IIR Middle East 971 4 3365161 info@iirme.com www.iirme.com QATAR May 22-25 Stadium and Venue Design and Development Qatar IQPC Middle East 971 4 3642975 enquiry@iqpc.ae www.iqpc.ae EGYPT May 10 -13 Wood World Arabian Group for Development 202 3037 257| info@agdexhibitions.net | www.agdexhibitions.net KUWAIT May 25-Jun 2 Kuwait International Trade Fair Kuwait International Fair 965 25387100 info@kif.net www.kif.net

May 22-25 Fifth Annual Cost-Effective Sustainable Design& Construction Middle East IQPC Middle East 971 4 3642975 enquiry@iqpc.ae www.iqpc.ae May 30-31 The Financial Technology Market Media Generations Exhibitions 44 1423524545 info@meftec.com www.meftec.com KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA May 16-19 Gitex KSA 2011 Riyadh Exhibitions Company 966 1 2295604 info@recexpo.com www.recexpo.com

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LAST BUT NOT LEAST

Connect with companies about your CSR Project! YAWE WANTS TO HELP YOU PITCH YOUR CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IDEA TO COMPANIES! To submit your project, or for more info, Please email us at: csr@yawe.org

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES: The Cisco Entrepreneur Institute is a global initiative to help entrepreneurs start, grow and IT-enable their business. It provides:

• Entrepreneur-specific business

training developed by Cisco® in cooperation with Stanford University, Cornell University, and My Own Business, Inc.

• A resource center where

entrepreneurs can find sound business advice, mentoring, and services

For investment inquiries or to enlist your project email: bizops@pushmag.me 1- E-commerce: An online interactive website that targets men & women of all ages. Great earning potential, minimum risk! For more info refer to code 001FD 2- Brand Launching: Retail/Franchising opportunity! Unique “theme” Boutique. Original concept & design. Looking for investors/agents/ distributors in the MENA area. For more info refer to code 001IC 3- Investors Needed for a High End Bridal Center- A Dream Come True for every bride! Bridal services, from A to Z. Design, concept & execution completed & ready for execution. Looking to open in Lebanon by 2011. For inquiries refer to code 001RT

• Internet business solutions • A connected community of

entrepreneurs in Lebanon, the region, and around the world

Workshops offered by the Cisco Entrepreneur Institute at AMIDEAST/Lebanon: Starting a Business Growing a Business iExec Enterprise Essentials iExec Public Sector Essentials Entrepreneurial Mindset Career Essentials Computer Literacy

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PUSHMAG.ME

BRAIN GYM SOLUTION

1 6 8 3 4 2 7 9 5 7 3 9 1 5 6 2 4 8

SUDOKU SOLUTION

For more information: Allyson Jerab Email: ajerab@amideast.org Phone: 01-989901 ext: 234 Web: amideast.org/lebanon

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