Environmentality on 98.9 North West FM

Summer solstice - Engineers Without Borders

2012-01-03T17:58:00.000-08:00

Dear Environmentality listeners,

On the 21st of December we had not only the summer solstice to celebrate but also our last show for the year, and Alicia had lined up an excellent guest to mark this momentous occasion.

Daniel A'Vard combines his job as a Sustainability Consultant with a volunteer position as the Victorian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Engagement Champion at Engineers Without Borders Australia. By the way, check out their website, it is one of the best looking ones I have seen in a long time!

To be completely honest with you all, I must confess that I was a little bit off my game and I felt that not enough justice had been done to Daniel, who despite all this was able to convey his passion for community development and social and environmental justice, and to talk about the great work that Engineers Without Borders Australia does. Hopefully we can have him in the studio sometime in 2012.

As you may have noticed, we have taken a holiday break for the last two weeks but we will be back on the 11th of January...

Listen to the show!

Live and Learn - 14 December 2011

2011-12-27T16:49:00.000-08:00

Dear Environmentality listeners,

Our regular blog coordinator is in Madagascar and as you can see we are struggling to keep up her good work. However after hearing Christian Nielsen speak again while I was editing the show this morning I decided it was time to share our guest's amazing enthusiasm and knowledge with all of you!

Christian is the Executive Director of Live and Learn Environmental Education, an organisation that I had never heard about until our lovely Pre-Production Coordinator Alicia organised the interview.

It would be fair to say that both Smokey and I were blown away by the amazing work that this organisation does in countries as diverse as Cambodia, Vietnam or Australia, and a little bit ashamed about our lack of knowledge.

One of the parts of the interview that particularly struck me was Christian's comment that the general Australian public is asleep when it comes to action on environmental sustainability. I probably had not thought about it in those terms but I have to say that I tend to agree with him. What do you think?

I see, you have not listened to the show yet... what are you waiting for?

Listen to the show!

Two shows in one article! 23 November and 7 December

2011-12-13T15:29:00.000-08:00

Dear Environmentality listeners,

A few technical hiccups made us lose a bit of momentum with our schedule of weekly uploads and articles but hopefully we will be back on track by the end of the week.

On the 23rd of November we had a very pleasant chat with Marcelle Holdaway from Hume City Council, who was sharing the news of an exciting community environmental program called Environmental Champions Program. It's a great opportunity for Hume residents so if you are interested do apply as they still have a couple of free places!

Marcelle also talked to us about one of her areas of expertise, Social Accounting; and about an environmentally friendly house that she built many years ago.

Two weeks later we had a fantastic telephone interview with Rebecca Gillin from Planet Ark. Rebecca gave us an overview of the fantastic programs carried out by Planet Ark and she showed an impressive amount of knowledge about recycling and its benefits. We also learnt about Planet Ark's campaign for the festive season: the 12 Do's of Christmas.

Clearly this three paragraph summary does not do any justice to our two fantastic guests so why don't you listen to the shows?

Environmentality 23 November - Hume City Council

Environmentality 7 December - Planet Ark

Wednesday 30th November 2011

2011-11-29T17:25:00.000-08:00

When Jaime's away, the Smokey will play!

No guests, no main man, so I've got a nicely self-indulgent music selection going (Jenny Odoline is the whole marvellous 18 minute album version)

I try to do a bit of environmentality stuff, even my ideas on what the word means. Hint: it's a state-of-being, an unconcious aversion to waste & mindless consumption; it's cycling to get somewhere, not cycling on a machine at the gym watching Channel Seven with the sound loud enough to annoy, but not to hear)

I'm playing:
Sunny sundae smile / My Bloody Valentine
How soon is now / The Smiths
When you sleep / The Field Mice
Jenny Odoline / Stereolab
Is there anyone out there for me? / Mighty Mighty
Karen / The Go Betweens
Baby honey / The Pastels

2011-11-22T02:22:00.001-08:00

Dear Environmentality Listeners,

We bounce down this week with Darren Cook from the North Melbourne Football Club. In partnership with The Huddle, The Squeaky Wheel, Victoria Police, City of Melbourne, and the University of Melbourne, My Bike Project aims at raising awareness and education to culturally and linguistically diverse young people in Melbourne’s inner-north. To find out exactly whats involved and how to register in the future tune into the podcast. Darren would love it if our listeners could also check out their facebook page . Comments and suggestions are welcome. And for all our footy fan followers, Jaime also asked Darren the all important question 'What are your tips' for next season?

Eve Archibald, the Nursery Manager at CERES Community Environment Park also provided some cracking tips for the garden. Sales in the nursery have been dominated by vegetable seedlings of late as people begin to embrace the up coming summer months. Jaime took this opportunity to ask Eve about non-toxic, safe alternatives to control snails in your garden. All we will say is that it involves shouting your snails a round of 'Beer'! Eve then went on to clearly describe just what Permaculture is and great ideas to better integrate strategies into your lifestyle. Head to the podcast for all the details.

And don't forget to check out all the up coming workshops and events at CERES over the summer.

What are your best eco-friendly Snail Slaying methods?

Leave your suggestions in our comments.

Listen to the show!

Environmentality, 09 November 2011

2011-11-09T04:31:00.000-08:00

Dear Environmentality Listeners,

We have returned with a scientific bang! This week we were joined by Roger Jones, Professorial Research Fellow at the Centre for Strategic Economic Studies, Victoria University. One of Rodgers aims is to bring Science and Policy together. As the senate passed the Carbon Tax this week such a relationship can be seen to be of great importance.

Roger Jones has a background in Earth Science, Environmental Science, Indigenous Nurseries and completed his PhD in the History of Crater Lakes. It is from this foundation that Roger works towards and greatly informs his approach in the adaptation to Climate Change. Social justice and environmental security are just a few of the morals and ethics woven through this weeks show. Along with estimations and conversions from Roger that will help our listeners to better visualize the potential real world effects in the reduction of carbon emissions.

Image courtesy of Independent Media Centre Australia

Climate policy is highlighted as an important step in tackling Climate Change. As is the efforts of the individual. Roger is quick to point out that the actions of an individual can provide global benefits. And it is with this that we end another great show.

Environmentality has another way for the individual to take action...Simply tune in to the show each week and listen out for our Listeners Challenge! This weeks prize consists of Enviroshop vouchers AND movie tickets. First listener to leave the correct answer as instructed by Jaime WINS!

So come on Environmentality Listeners take action!

Environmentality, 02 November 2011

2011-11-03T17:35:00.000-07:00

Apologies to our listeners, unfortunately the show this week was cancelled. But don't worry, we will be back next week with another great show.

Environmentality, 26 October 2011

2011-11-03T17:04:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentatlity listeners,

Walking through the shops the other day I had the sneaking suspicion something was about to change. Thats right listeners, the change of Christmas is upon us! During the festive season consumerism has a reputation for going into over drive and for many people christmas becomes a stressful time of year. But never fear, Enviromentality is here! With the help of our guests this week we will change you from a Christmas Consumer into a Conscious Consumer. Ease your festive fears with some some great tools to inform your purchasing and support your sustainable practices.

Our first guest was Nick Ray from the Ethical Consumer Group. Not only do they provide a handy Ethical Consumer Book (2012 issue due out in a few weeks) but they have also just released a shop ethical iphone app. Nick then introduced a new initiative kicking off in February at the Sustainable Living Festival. The new project aims to provide outside options to industrial produce that can be search by simply entering your postcode. Hopefully we will get Nick back on the show closer to its release. In the meantime head to the web site localharvest.org.au

Get the App!

Great gift ideas for the conscious consumer...

Get the Book!

Our second guest, Dominic Eales also aims to support consumer based desicions. The ATA - Alternative Technology Association has introduced a fantastic online tool that 'calculates what size rainwater tank best suits your needs'. The Tankulator is free and offers independent, expert advice. A rain water tank could very well be the perfect Christmas gift... Dominic went on to mention the involvment the ATA have had in developing wind technology and solar energy through council projects. To find out the conclusions to a 13 month trial of a wind tower with the Brimbank City Council, head to our podcast and listen to the show.

Environmentality, 19 October 2011

2011-10-20T20:54:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners,

Summer is just around the corner and the recent warm barmy nights have made this weeks guests very timely indeed. Sieta Whitehead, CERES facility Manager, has some great upcoming events to kick off your summer activities. And if that's not enough this weeks 'mystery guest' presents listeners with a great oppotunity to get on their bikes and ride off into the sunset.

With the completion of stage 3 in sustainable buildings at CERES the Van Raay Centre is just one of the great venues that can be hired and enjoyed. We were lucky enough to have Sieta Whitehead on the phone this week to inform our listeners of all the fantastic facilities CERES has to offer.

Image courtesy of CERES official website.

From small group meetings, fully catered functions and even weddings. Ceres could be just the space you were looking for. For more information check out the great interview with Sieta on our podcast or follow this link to the CERES website. While your there check out all the upcoming Festivals and Events. This month its the Rainbow Urban Gathering and the Sacred Kingfisher Festival. Kicking things off on Friday 21st October, is an out door film night. Featured film 'Play again'.

Image courtesy of 'Play Again' official website.

Some exciting new development are also happening at the Banksia Gardens Community Centre. Stephen Hiley is no stranger to the show and has joined forces with Banksia Gardens and the Healthy Hume project to initiate the Broadmeadows Bicycle hub. The purpose built facility will encourage transportation alternatives whilst recycling and reusing old bicycles. Steven is hoping to recruit 5 or 6 volunteers who will be trained and supported by the CERES Bike Shed staff. So lets get those wheels of interest turning! Anyone is welcome to attend the information night at Banksia Gardens on the 9th November 6:30 till 8pm, food and drink provided. What a great chance to support the community.

We ended the show with some thought provoking analogies involving a boiling pot of soup and the predictability of climate change. And Jaime referenced an intriguing video about Quantum Locking but not before wishing Andrew Raphael a big Happy birthday form the Environmentality team.

Please feel free to comment on any of the topics in this weeks show. We love to hear form our listeners.

Check out the podcast and enjoy.

Environmentality, 12 October 2011

2011-10-18T15:18:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners,

Last weekend it was World Food Day so our Research Coordinator Alicia decided to dedicate the show to food, which Smokey and I did not mind at all!

To start we had a very interesting chat to Arabella Forge. Arabella is a blogger, cooking teacher, published writer and, most of all, a passionate Frugavore. Haven't you heard this word before? Don't worry, we hadn't before either!

So Arabella explained that being a frugavore is about utilising the best quality foods, but wasting nothing as you go. This means that money can be saved on groceries – not by buying cheaper produce, but by using better quality, local produce more wisely, and connecting directly to the source of our food and preparing items from scratch. If you are interested in finding out more about the Frugavore Lifestyle, you can visit Arabella's website.

The interview with Arabella finished with a couple of recipes from her cookbook that she kindly shared with us. The recipes were fantastic but Smokey and I spent the rest of the show very hungry!

After this we had a chat to Zoe Whyatt, National Manager of SecondBite, an NGO that is committed to making a positive difference to people by identifying sources of nutritious surplus fresh food and produce that might otherwise go to waste and facilitating its safe and timely distribution to agencies and people in need.

Zoe explained how SecondBite worked and we were amazed to hear how in a few years it has grown from a small operation to an organisation that will move 1 million kilograms of food this year! While this is fantastic and it shows what a fantastic organisation they are, it also points out to a huge need for emergency relief in Australia, which is a worrying notion given that we are one of the richest nations in the World!

The music selection was Smokey through and through, although he did include a couple of modern tracks. You got to hear:

No one wants a lover by Josh Pyke

The sum of it all by The Herd

Born Alive by Wilco

Nowhere fast by the Smiths

When I first met your Ma by Paul Kelly

Listen to the show!

Environmentality 5 October 2011

2011-10-09T14:55:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners,

As some of you may know, the last two weeks have been challenging for North West FM and for us too, as the station is experiencing some major technical difficulties (a broken transmitter).

However, this has not had any impact on the quality of our guests, and this week we had someone who we described on air as a "heavy weight" in terms of environmental activism.

His name is John Merory and as he quite humbly puts it, he is a neurologist with a great interest in environmental matters. The list of environmental organisations in which he has or has had an active role is most impressive, including Men of the Trees, the Riverland Conservation Society, several Bicycle User Groups, Beyond Zero Emissions, Doctors for the Environment and Transition Banyule, to name a few.

We had a very interesting chat with John, who brought some music that unfortunately we were not able to play (more technical issues!!). Luckily his daughter Sam brought some that we could play. In her selection, we particularly enjoyed a band called Otouto.

For the last few minutes, we connected with Georgina Murphy, Environment Education Officer at Hume City Council. Georgina told us about the event that council is preparing for National Ride to Work Day - 12 October 2011 and about some Environmental Workshops coming up in the next few weeks.

The podcast for this show is not available due to the problem with the transmitter, which is a shame. However, that gives us an excuse to have John again soon. We look forward to that!

Environmentality 28 September

2011-09-28T21:54:00.000-07:00

Dear listeners,

Today we spoke to Claire Rayner, a volunteer with Wildlife Victoria. Claire told us about her roles as a volunteer carer, transporter and rescuer which she has been carrying out for many years. Wildlife Victoria is always in need of volunteers and they definitely could do with a few more in the northern suburbs of Melbourne.

In order to start collaborating with the organisation, prospective volunteers need to take part in some comprehensive training and, if they are planning to become carers, they also need to obtain a licence from the Department of Sustainability and Environment. There are training sessions coming up in October, so why don't you check out the dates?

But there is more to Claire than meets the eye! She combines her volunteer and paid roles at Wildlife Victoria with a busy life as a musician, currently as part of a band called Deja. So for a few minutes we abandoned our Environmental theme and we had a chat to Claire about her life as a musician, which was very interesting and quite refreshing! We got to play quite a bit of her music, a welcome break from our selection, which tends to be stuck in the 80's or 90's if we are lucky!

So, all in all, today's show was a great one despite a few difficulties. While Claire was stuck in we played some Australian music courtesy of AirIt - Amrap.

Unfortunately there is no podcast of the show due to some problems with the North West FM transmitter that should be fixed by next week!

Environmentality, 21 September 2011

2011-09-21T14:42:00.001-07:00

After a five week break due to Jaime's holiday in Spain and unfortunately without Peter, who has moved to Benalla (good luck with the new live, Peter!) today we had the pleasure of sharing the Environmentality hour with Chris Cook, Nathan Wong and Tiffany Inglis, from Trust for Nature.

During the interview, we learned about this organisation that has protected more than 80,000 hectares of native vegetation in Victoria. This includes more than 1000 private properties protected by conservation covenants, 111 properties purchased by Trust for Nature (51 currently retained and 60 transferred to the Crown for inclusion in the reserve system); and 43 properties sold through the Revolving Fund.
Apart from talking about the organisation, we also learned a little bit about how Hadfield looked before it became the suburban area that it now is, thanks to Nathan's impressive knowledge about the local biodiversity.

Tiffany told us about a couple of events that are coming up and invited our listeners to join their Facebook Page. We have already Liked it, what are you waiting for?

Chris also brought quite a lot of top quality music that Smokey was able to include into his selection, so all in all it was another great show!

Listen to the show!

Environmentality 17 August 2011

2011-08-18T16:26:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners.

With Jaime away on holiday for five weeks and Peter leaving the show after today for his move to Benalla today's show was the last until about the 21st of September. Assisting us in the studio today was Alicia who does all the guest research and organisation to get them on the show and was a great help today in getting our guests on the phone during the show.

Our first guest was Sarah Day from Ross House and eco-shout. Our second guest was Damien Moyse from the Alternative Technology Association who brought us up to date with the ATA's concerns about possible moves by the Victorian Government to change the premium feed in tariff for grid connected solar photo voltaic systems.

Sarah told us about Ross House and its influence in supporting over 50 small non-profit groups working towards environmental and social justice by providing affordable, accessible office space. The heritage listed building is situated at 247 - 251 Flinders Lane in the heart of Melbourne. It is easily accessible by the many groups who use its facilities. Ross House also offers affordable meeting room hire and other resources to anyone who might like to use them.

The Big Picture film nights presenting social justice and environmental docos are back at Ross House. Held on the first Tuesday of the month the next film is Tapped which investigates the role of the bottled water industry and its effects on our health, climate change, pollution, and our reliance on oil. Hosted by DO SOMETHING on Tuesday 6 September at the Hayden Raysmith Room, 4th floor at Ross House, 247 Flinders Lane, Melbourne. Entry is by donation and all proceeds go towards environmental campaigns.

Ross House is part of the Melbourne City Councils “1200 Buildings” sustainability initiative. See Sarah and Michael Griffiths, the Facility and Sustainability Officer talking about Ross House sustainability actions on you tube.

Sarah is also runs her own Ross House organisation called eco-shout which is a catalyst to action for anyone who wants to be part of creating environmental and social justice in Australia. See herstory about eco-shout. You can use Eco-shout any way you can to lighten your footprint and get involved: from ethical shopping to joining a group, to launching your own campaign.

The eco-shout active groups search engine is a listing of groups searchable across nearly 30 categories from active spaces to wetlands. You can promote your own group by being added to the active group directory.

Anyone with a sustainable product or service can be listed on the eco-shout green directory. All listings are scrutinized to ensure listings meet sustainability criteria to avoid green washing.

Visit eco-shout to learn more about environmentl issues and see how you can help environmental and social justice organisations or get help for your own actions.

Thanks to Sarah for telling us about Ross House and her own organisation eco-shout.

Our second guest was Damien Moyse energy projects and policy manager from the Alternative Technology Association which is Australia’s leading not-for-profit consumer-based organisation promoting renewable energy, sustainable building and water saving. The ATA understands the Victorian Government is on the verge of making an announcement to slash the feed-in tariff, which has supported the boom in solar power systems across the state and is calling on the Victorian Government Coalition to honour its 2010 election commitment and hold off on making major changes to the Victorian feed-in tariff for rooftop solar systems before an independent review is held. See the ATA's media release on this issue.

Damien spoke to us about how the feed in tariff works and its use in assisting the development of a renewable solar energy industry. The early phasing out of the tariff would be a blow for the industry reducing the incentive for people to install home pv systems and pushing out the time when solar generated renewable power is on a price parity with fossil fuel based non-renewable power.

In keeping with our tradition of asking our guest to select some music Sarah provided us with two songs to choose from by two Melbourne based bands; Qwest by Combat Wombat, and Moment of Truth by Blue King Brown. Unfortunately we could only play Moment of Truth which Alicia brought into the studio.

With Smokey’s selections you got to hear:

Can’t Be Sure by Sundays
Moment of Truth by Blue King Brown
Gold Lion by Yeah Yeah Yeahs
Cowboys by Portishead
When I First Met Your Ma by Paul Kelly
Chills by Ben Lee

Another great show with two interesting guests. Thank you to Alicia for coming into the studio and assisting Smokey and Peter produce today's show.

Listen to or download the show!

Remember the show is in recess until about September 21st.

Environmentality 10 August 2011

2011-08-10T20:06:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners.

Our guest today was Chris Ennis the Manager of the Organic Farm and Fair Food project at the CERES Environment Park.

CERES is situated on a reclaimed quarry and landfill site on the banks of the Merri Creek in Brunswick. The park is 30 years old next year.

CERES is funded from a number of sources including philanthropic and government support but also the day to day efforts of its own enterprises such as a nursery, organic market and shop, fair food project and restaurant.

Chris told us about how the Fair Food system works. Produce is seasonal, organic and resourced locally mostly within Victoria except for a couple of months in spring when interstate produce might be sourced. CERES packs the produce into a range of boxes which can be ordered online and picked up from one of about 50 local distribution hosts in Melbourne. There are up to 3000 customers and CERES packs about 600 to 700 boxes per week.

Seven different boxes are produced; small ($35) medium ($49.50) and large ($68) mixed vegetables and fruit, and four $30 boxes; fruit only, veg only, a basic box and a juices box. At each host there is a swap box where you can leave produce you might not use and exchange it with something left by other customers.

An additional benefit of the system is that you might get to meet some neighbours!

Read The Age review of CERES Fair Food.

CERES aims to get produce for the best price it can directly from organic farmers. Profits support the organisation. CERES uses people from disadvantaged backgrounds to pack the boxes which can improve their employment prospects and assist engagement with the community.

Another CERES project Chris told us about is Aquaponics which produces vegetables and fish by growing plants on waste from fish. Not unlike hydroponics except that nutrients for the plants come from the waste produced by fish. Led by CERES Green Technology Designer Stephen Mushin and Biologist Dr Wilson Lennard, construction of the first prototype aquaponics system began in June 2010 and is now in the final stages of testing. It is hoped that the systems can be produced as a unit which could even be run by schools and provide income from the sale of produce.

Finally Chris told us about the CERES organic farm. CERES has two certified organic market gardens located over two sites, Honey Lane Market Garden and the Merri Creek Market Garden. Volunteers assist with the gardens. The gardens are also used for training purposes by students doing Certificate II in both Horticulture and Hospitality. They get to grow and harvest the food and cook it!

Thanks to Chris for being on the show and providing us with a great insight into the work CERES is doing around food production and distribution. Click on links in the blog or go to the CERES website to find out more.

Smokey provided us with another selection of music which began with a 60’s song dealing with anarchy, its selection being influenced by the recent mob riot outbreak in the UK.

You got to hear;

Big A Little A by CRASS

Gigantic by The Pixies

The Red Telephone by Love

The Stars of Track and Field by Belle and Sebastian.

Our listener challenge for today was “what is the title of Chris’s position at CERES?” Correct answers sent by SMS during the show to 0447 777 989 receive a $10 gift voucher from the EnviroShop or answers can be left on our blog at www.environmentality989.blogspot.com.

The show closed after a short discussion about organic foods, peak oil, and the impact of reduced consumption on our economic system.

Listen to the show!

Northwest FM is now streaming online so you can listen to the Environmentality broadcast on your computer. Go to www.northwestfm.org for instructions about listening online.

Environmentality 3 August 2011

2011-08-03T11:51:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners.

Unfortunately the guest we had organised for today was unable to make it to the show. Instead Jaime took the opportunity to discuss some of the issues around the proposed carbon tax from the Australian Governments Clean Energy Future document “What a carbon price means for you” which many of us received in the mail yesterday. You can download this and other documents in the series from the Governments Clean Energy Future website.
At the end of the show Jaime presented a surprise guest we often hear about near the end of the show but today we invited into the studio to hear from personally.
During the week we had an email from Allison Fogarty the Shop Manager at CERES Community Environment Park, who we recently had on the show on July 6th advising us they were judging the winner of their market and shop logo competition this Tuesday with Marc Smith editor of the Moreland Leader. They are going to announce the winner at a special celebratory Market this Saturday the 6th of August. There will be live music and face painting for the kids. The market is on from 9 am to 2 pm.

The listener challenge question proposed by Jaime was “in what decade was Smokey born”? Correct answers sent by SMS during the show to 0447 777 989 receive a $10 gift voucher from the EnviroShop. Answers can also be left on our blog at www.environmentality989.blogspot.com.

Jaime proceeded to highlight information from “What a carbon price means for you” with input from Smokey our resident economist.
Why is Australia cutting its carbon pollution?

Australians generate more pollution per person than any developed country.
Climate change is happening and risks damaging Australia’s environment and way of life.
The world is moving to a clean energy future.
The Government has a comprehensive plan to build a clean energy future which includes:

Introducing a carbon price.
Promoting innovation and investment in renewable energy.
Encouraging energy efficiency.
Creating opportunities in the land sector to cut pollution.

The proposed carbon price is $23 per ton and will be paid by 500 of our largest polluters. This provides an incentive for these companies to reduce their emissions of greenhouse gases. The tax will increase the cost of operation for these companies which will lead to increases in consumer prices such as electricity costs.
However the Government is going to use the tax to compensate many in the community so that pensioners and low to middle income people will be fully compensated for cost increases expected from the tax. These cost increases are also expected to provide a cost signal to householders to save on their bills by reducing the unnecessary consumption of electricity for instance. Millions of household will be better off when the carbon tax is introduced.

Some of the revenue from the tax will be used to fund tax cuts for millions of people. The tax free threshold is to be increased from $6000 to $18,200 which means wage earners in this bracket get to keep all their pay packet and may not need to lodge a tax return.
In general the panel felt the idea of using the carbon tax to compensate people and to fund projects to improve energy efficiency and develop renewable energy was a good way of reducing carbon pollution.
In addition to providing some economic insights behind the carbon tax Smokey also played another great selection of music during the show.
We got to hear:

Harmony in my head by the Buzzcocks
Cannonball by The Breeders
Starbright Boy by Bis
Troubled Waters by Cat Power
I found a reason by Cat Power
Sweet Disposition by Temper Trap

Our surprise guest was Andrew from Spending Some Time With Andrew, the show which follows Environmentality running from 1:00 to 4:30 pm each Wednesday. Andrew introduced us to his own special guest Gareth Kegan who has appeared in the Rocky Horror Show, Jersey Boys and Next to Normal. Andrew gave us some of his own environmental observations on how we are already dealing with environmental issues, such as waste, recycling and changing light bulbs.

Another great show providing some commentary on the soon to be legislated carbon tax.

Listen to the show!

Northwest FM and Environmentality can now be listened to online. Go to the stations website at http://www.northwestfm.org/ for instructions on listening live online!

Environmentality 27 July 2011

2011-07-27T05:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners!

Today our studio guest was Amy Amato who is the Development Manager at Wildlife Victoria. After working in the tourism industry Amy became involved with Wildlife Victoria after the Black Saturday bushfire's when she assisted with the rescue of native animals injured by the fires. She commenced working for the organisation as the Marketing and Fundraising Manager.

Wildlife Victoria is a not for profit, volunteer based organisation that has been at the forefront of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation in Victoria since its formation in 1989. They provide a 24 hour, 7 day a week wildlife rescue and information service.

Anyone discovering an injured native animal can contact the Wildlife Victoria Emergency Phone Service on 13000 94535 or 13000 WILDLIFE (13 “000” WILDLIFE) to obtain assistance and Amy suggests people put this number in their mobile phone in case they need it. Calls are answered by a call centre which will assist getting the animal to a licensed wildlife shelter, foster carer or veterinarian. Typically the call centre takes 60,000 calls per year.

Wildlife Rescuers

Volunteers are a critical part of the organisation. After satisfactorily completing a one day training program anyone can become a volunteer rescuer. The next training day is in Melbourne on the 1^st of October. The cost is $20 for non-members or $10 for members. Wildlife Victoria membership costs $30. Volunteers can nominate the times they would like to be available.

Being a self-funded non-profit donations are important to the financial survival of Wildlife Victoria. You can donate online and anyone able to donate on a regular monthly basis becomes a WildFriend. Another fund raising effort is Wildlife Victoria's association with Goodwill Wines who produce a vegan wine labelled with the Wildlife Victoria logo. Goodwill Wines are based in the Yarra Valley and 50% of the profit on sales goes to Wildlife Victoria. The wine can be ordered online.

An important activity of Wildlife Victoria is the Wildlife Education Program which has been designed for schools. The main purpose of the program is promoting a more harmonious way of living with the unique creatures that share this land with us.

In keeping with our tradition of playing some music selected by our guest Amy brought in the album of her friend Adam Dunning called Sunset Monkeys which has an environmental theme. Adam has a passion for wildlife conservation and he supports Wildlife Victoria. We had problems with one of the tracks but you can listen to the album online.

Music you heard today;

One Note Samba by Stereolab
Emma’s House by Field Mice
Sunset Monkeys by Adam Dunning
Cattle and Cane by The Go Betweens
Mount Eliza by Adam Dunning

The SMS challenge for today was “what organisation does our guest Amy Amato come from?” Correct answers sent by SMS to 0447 777 989 win a $10 gift voucher to the EnviroShop. Answers may also be left on our blog at http://environmentality989.blogspot.com/.

And today we received a correct answer by SMS from a listener who will receive a couple of $10 gift vouchers from the EnviroShop.

Thank you to Amy for being on the show and telling us about the great work being done by Wildlife Victoria.

Listen to the show!

Environmentality 20 July 2011

2011-07-20T18:12:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners.

Environmentality is now available via internet streaming. Go to the North West FM home page for instructions on listening to the program online.

Our guest today was Simon Branigan from the Victorian National Parks Association. During the show Simon provided us with an insight into the VNPA and its activities. Simon is an experienced radio presenter having been involved with the Grass Roots Eco Radio show on Edge Radio 99.3 FM based at the University of Tasmania. From the hospitality industry Simon has worked his way up the environmental industry finally completing a Master’s Degree in Environmental Management.

The VNPA is 60 years old next year and is the oldest conservation group in Victoria. The group is an independent non-profit membership based organisation and its aim is to improve the protection and management of the natural environment in both marine and land based national parks. Although the main focus is marine national parks the group has a broad interest in protecting the natural environment. For instance the group has also been campaigning about alpine grazing.

VNPA performs a range of work including a bush walking and activities and campaigns protecting the natural environment. Simon’s main role is the marine environment and coasts and raising awareness of these natural environments. For instance he is looking at issues in Westernport Bay and Alcoa expansion at Anglesea.

The group is based in the 60L Green Building located in 60 Leicester Street Carlton near Victoria Market and employs about 19 people including part time staff.

Simon informed us that the south coast of Victoria has a unique and diverse marine environment having about 12,000 plant and animal species. This is larger than the marine environment we are more familiar with in Queensland and the Great Barrier Reef. Like land based environment’s marine environments are also threatened by invasive species such as the Northern Pacific Sea Star and Undaria Japanese Kelp in Port Philip Bay. Undaria has now infested Apollo Bay Harbour.

Every 3-4 years VNPA conducts a professionally based Nature Conservation Review in both land and marine environments which assesses environmental conditions and threats and proposes steps to be taken to protect these environments. A recent review was Protectig our Seas and Shores. Campaigns VNPA conducts are based on science. The groups structure is based on an executive director and board. Simon is involved with the Conservation Committee.

Recreational fishing was discussed and although marine parks are no take areas they are still available for certain water based activities. There is some evidence that marine parks support larger and more diverse marine populations and that there may be a spill over into areas outside the parks. There is a need for more marine parks.

Simon told us about a new VNPA website www.exploreunderwatervictoria.org.au which can be used to explore Victoria's marine environment, without getting wet! The site provides information, photos, video and information about local environment groups for many Victorian marine sites.

On the VNPA website are fact sheets about a range of environmental issues with a particular emphasis on marine parks.

Anyone wishing for more information on VNPA campaigns can email vnpa@vnpa.org.au. VPNA also has available a Marine Action Pack which is filled with educational materials, a marine sticker, letter writing kit and postcards to help you become a marine defender and can be obtained at the same email or by phone on 03 9347 5188.

The show finished with a brief discussion of the political ramifications of the carbon tax.

You got to hear;

My Baby Portable Player Sound by Pizzicato Five
Swim by Madder Rose
De-luxe by Lush
Sugar Hiccup by Cocteau Twins
Over and Over by Morcheeba

Our mystery question for today was “what organisation does Simon represent?” Correct answers SMS to 0447 777 989 during the show receive a $10 gift voucher to the EnviroShop. Or answers can be left on our blog at http://www.environmentality989.blogspot.com/

Another great show. Thank you to Simon for all the information on our marine environment in particular and telling us about the VNPA. You need to listen to the show for all the details!

Listen to the show!

Environmentality 13 July 2011

2011-07-14T18:56:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners.

Today we spoke to De Grebner who is project manager at TreeProject. TreeProject is a non-profit community organisation dedicated to revegetating the Victorian landscape with indigenous trees, shrubs and grasses. De explained to us how the organisation works with farmers, Landcare groups, park authorities, government authorities and hundreds of volunteers to grow and supply local indigenous plants.

TreeProject relies on volunteer growers to germinate and grow local indigenous plants to supply requests for plants from farmers and Landcare groups. The seeds are obtained from local seed banks.

The TreeProject commenced in 1986 when Maggie McLeod and her friend decided to do something for the environment. They saw trees as being a symbol of life for thousands of years and by propagating and planting them they could tackle many of today’s environmental problems. With the help of friends the first plantings took place in April 1989.
The group’s vision was to plant 1 million trees. Growing about 100,000 per year they estimate they have now planted 2.2 million. TreeProject provides plants in lots of 500 for $140 plus $30 for the cost of the seeds.
Registered volunteers grow the plants after receiving a kit. The kit is made up of seven foam fruit boxes that contain all the materials for growing around 350 seedlings. A kit can fit in a car boot and can be picked up at depots in Melbourne, Geelong and Bendigo. To grow the seedlings volunteers need to provide a nice sunny spot of about 2 square metres, preferably on a raised bench. Other than time, growers need to provide the water and daily care.

There are two growing seasons; the first round commences in late November with plants ready for planting in March while the second season commences late January producing plants ready for planting in June.

Please visit the TreeProject website for more details about the organisation and information about becoming a volunteer grower. To register as a volunteer email info@treeproject.asn.au or phone 03 9650 9477.

The program finished with a short discussion about the carbon tax with the general feeling the tax was a reasonable start to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and tackling climate change.

Today our guest also provided a great selection of music for the show. You got to hear:

Parakou by Angelique Kidjo
Water Dragon by Circle of Rhythm
Al likindoy by Miguel Angel Corte`s
Gravity by Ricky Lee Jones
The Wolf Sky by Wendy Rule

Our SMS question for today was “what organisation does our guest De Grebner come from?” Anyone texting the correct answer during the show to 0447 777 989 wins a $10 voucher to the EnviroShop. Answers can also be left on the blog.

Listen to the show!

Environmentality 6 July 2011

2011-07-06T17:26:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners.

Today we spoke to two guests from CERES Organic Market and Shop; Allison who is the Shop Manager and Kate who is the Market Manager.

Allison and Kate provided some general information about CERES. CERES stands for Centre for Education & Research in Environmental Strategies. It is a non-profit environment and education centre and urban farm located by the Merri Creek in East Brunswick, Melbourne. The Centre was built in the 1980’s on an old landfill site.

CERES plays a vital role in the local food network selling local organic produce harvested from its own organic gardens and other small sustainable growers within Victoria.

The Organic Market and Shop opening hours are;
Market
Wednesday 9am-2pm
Saturday 9am-2pm
Friday 9am-2pm (mini market)
Shop
Wednesday 9am-2pm
Thursday 9am-5pm
Friday 9am-5pm
Saturday 9am-2pm

One program run by CERES is Fair Food which is based on a food host system for the ordering and delivery of organic produce. Orders are placed online and delivered to a local food host where you can pick up your order. Foods are organic, seasonal and local. To find out more click on the Fair Food link above or on the CERES home page.

In season at the moment are citrus and root vegetables. Heirloom varieties provide additional interest to the selection.

Jaime provided listeners with a question to win a $10 gift voucher from the EnviroShop. The question was “What are the names of today’s guests?” A correct reply by SMS to 0447 777 989 during the show wins a voucher.

Some coming events at CERES include;

A logo competition for the market and shop. This is running during July with the winner announced at CERES on Saturday 6^th August. The winner receives a month’s supply of vegetables. The tag line for the logo is "Where Food Benefits Community".
July 20^th, book launch, Permaculture Pioneers.
July 29^th, film night at the Merri Restaurant & Café, Garbage Warriors.
There are also a range of festival celebrations including the The Autumn Harvest Festival and the Return of the Sacred Kingfisher Festival. Details.

Kate and Allison provided some insights into the benefits of organic farming and permaculture such as reducing soil impacts and localising the food system.

To finish the show Smokey provided some political commentary around the upcoming announcement of the federal government’s carbon tax legislation this Sunday.

Smokey also played a great selection of music. You got to hear;

While you wait for the others by Grizzly Bear
Science of fear by The Temper Trap
Greatness and perfection of love by Julian Cope
Letter by Dan Sutton
Coach station reunion by Field Mice

Another informative show reminding us of the wonderful organisation that CERES is. Thank you to the EnviroShop for providing the $10 gift vouchers. Listen during future shows to win a voucher. Remember to click on the links to find out about CERES and products and services offered by the EnviroShop.

Listen to the show!

Environmentality 29 June 2011

2011-06-30T15:54:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners.

We had two guests on the show today. As the next edition of the Alternative Technology Associations magazine ReNew has just come off the press we caught up with the magazine’s editor Jacinta Cleary. We first spoke to Jacinta on the 20th of April.

Jacinta reminded us of how the ATA began following the first major oil crisis in the 1970’s. ATA has an emphasis on technology for sustainable homes and a greener environment. ATA produces two magazines; ReNew which has a focus on technology and Sanctuary which deals with sustainable homes.

This edition of ReNew magazine has a range of articles about technology and sustainability issues for the home. Some of the feature article’s we asked Jacinta about were; Fielding’s passing shot-the wind farm enquiry, 2020 tech: what’s coming next to lead the way in a low carbon world, a home insulation buyers guide, an update on the competition for ideas about recycling you CRT TV, and the mud brick circle house built using passive solar design principles.
All up this edition of ReNew has 11 feature articles plus a home hydronic heating special covering 12 pages. The regular features and advertising also provide a wealth of sustainable technology information.

Our second guest was Elliot Fishman from the Institute for Sensible Transport. The Institute grew out the hike in oil prices following Hurricane Katrina. The organisation hopes to stimulate a better debate about transport options and solutions to reduce the need for us to get in our cars.

One project Elliot told us about was working with local councils about dealing with increased costs associated with oil depletion. Councils can reduce the oil intensity of services delivered to the community such as waste collection and disposal, meals on wheels and transport. Some councils now purchase 4 cylinder cars over 6 and 8 cylinder ones.
Another project we spoke to Elliot about is public bike schemes. A key finding has been that users of the schemes tend to be people who are walking rather than car users. The incentive needs to be there to encourage use by car users. And it is politically difficult for government to encourage bike use over car use.
Elliot also provided some insights into Melbourne’s transport system including the idea for a train service to the airport.
As Smokey was not able to be at the show today Jaime looked after the music selection with another great selection from his jazz collection.
You got to hear:

Bird Land by Weather Report
My Song by Keith Jarrett
Pianola Roll by Dave Graney
Stay, Please Stay by Oh Mercy

Another very informative show. Find more information about today’s guests and their organisations by clicking on the links in the above text.
Listen to the show!

Environmentality 22 June 2011

2011-06-22T20:38:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners.

We had another interesting show today. Prior to interviewing today's guest Smokey told us about some of his thoughts about his recent trip to Bali from an environmental perspective.

We also took the opportunity before our guest rang the studio to interview two students from the Craigieburn Secondary School who happened to be visiting the studio. We spoke to Ben Leavey and Ben Chambers and after introducing themselves they answered a few questions about environmental sustainability. From their answers to these questions we felt the students had a very informed view of environmental issues and knowledge of possible solutions.

Our principal guest for today was Travis Scicchitano who is the Woodlands Project Officer from Conservation Volunteers Australia.

Woodlands Historical Park is in Greenvale near Tullamarine Airport and Travis explained how he has been restoring the park in preparation for the re-introduction of the Eastern-Barred Bandicoot to the park.

By 1991 the bandicoot was on the brink of extinction through habitat loss (for agriculture and development) and predation by introduced foxes and cats. In preparation for the release of 50 Bandicoots from a breeding program into Woodlands, Conservation Volunteers and Hume City Council have been removing weeds, replanting natives and fencing the Woodlands site.

Anyone wishing to volunteer to assist with the program can do so by attending Woodlands on a Thursday. Contact the West Melbourne office at 162 Aderley St, WEST MELBOURNE VIC 3003, Phone 03 9326 8250 or email melbourne@conservationvolunteers.com.au for details.

Travis also told us about another project he has been involved with at Conservation Volunteers; Green Gym. The Green Gym Project is based on the idea that volunteering for activities in Parks is a great form of exercise and also is a social activity and an opportunity to learn new skills and knowledge about the natural environment. As Travis mentioned we use three times more energy standing up than sitting down.

With Smokey back on deck today Jaime only got to play one more Jazz track from his Jazz collection.

You got to hear;

Round Midnight from the George Russell Sextet

Sensitive by The Field Mice

Children of The Revolution by T-Rex

From the Flagstones by the Cocteau Twins

I walk the Line by Johnny Cash.

Listen to the show!

Environmentality 15 June 2011

2011-06-15T17:41:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners.

Today we spoke to Cate Lawrence from Green Renters. Cate and her partner started the organisation some years ago after finding there was little information available to assist people in rented accommodation live more sustainably.

The organisation delivers workshops, runs projects and the website is full of tips, tutorials, product reviews and inspiring stories, all specifically geared to renters.

Some upcoming workshops include Living Sustainably in Rental Accommodation (June 29), a Green Renting Workshop (June 30) and DIY Natural Cleaning (October 22).

In 2007 Cate also launched Polka Dot Rabbit which represents Cate's creative side where she reclaims once loved items, recreating them to be loved all over again.

As we waited for Cate to arrive at the studio Jaime began the show by mentioning the opening of the Hume Eco Living Centre at Banksia Gardens Community Centre last Wednesday which is why we did not have a show last week.

The Centre has been built using environmentally sustainable principles including passive solar design and has transformed the facilities at Banksia. The following photos show how the centre has been transformed.

Before

After

Jaime at opening ceremony

Uncle Stan performing traditional opening.

Some external and internal views of the centre.

As Smokey is away in Bali Jaime did a great job looking after the music for today’s show. We got to hear a track from Kat Lavers the guest on our previous show two weeks ago and also one from Cate our guest today along with some great jazz from Jaime's collection.

You got to hear;

Six Seasons Rap by Ilan Abrahams (Selected by Kat Lavers our previous guest)
Meet B.B. by Count Basie and his orchestra
So What by Miles Davis
Golden Brown by The Stranglers (Selected by Cate)
My favourite things by John Coltrane

Another great show providing some great information from an organisation dedicated to sustainable green renting. Listen to the show!

Environmentaility 1 June 2011

2011-06-01T18:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners.

Today we spoke to Kat Lavers from Transition Darebin which is part of the worldwide Transition Network.

The organisations vision is a relocalised and resilient Darebin that is liveable for current and future generations. Key drivers for the initiative is peak oil and dealing with climate change.

Kat highlighted the negative media scenarios which have been presented about climate change and peak oil. However by imagining the type of future we desire the Transition Network can assist planning for the transition to a sustainable future. Darebin has produced an excellent document “Climate Change and Peak Oil Adaptation Plan” about these issues and an adaptation strategy.

The organisation is run by volunteers and has a doing and fun attitude to building resilience and adaption in the community to these pressing environmental issues. They are trying to localise food production which relies heavily on oil inputs and have a local food directory and community supported agriculture scheme.

An interesting transport initiative was the shifting of a home’s furniture and contents using bicycle transport raising the question that if bikes can be used to shift a house is an SVU required to get the milk?

A key them to the Transition initiative is Permaculture which is about sustainable design; reducing resource use, reducing waste production and observing natural cycles.

On Saturday June 4 Transition Darebin has organised the “Darebin Urban Harvest Fruit and Vegie Swap”, 10am – 12pm at the Northcote Uniting Church.

We heard an interesting selection of music from Jaime, Smokey and Kat. You got to hear;

Sweet Disposition by The Temper Trap.
Shuck by You Am I.
Cinnamon Girl by Diesel.
Happy Guy by Stephen Cummings
A track from Kats disk by the artist Tim Scanlon.
Someone to Watch Over Me by The Conglomerates, compliments of Kat.
Days Like These by Diesel.

An upbeat and entertaining show showing how Darebin is tackling environmental sustainability.

And a great effort by Kat to get to the show using public tranport and her bike!

Listen to the show!

Environmentality 25 May

2011-05-25T05:42:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners.

Today we had a conversation with Nina Bailey who is one of the Sustainable Living project managers at Victoria’s peak non-profit environmental organisation Environment Victoria, not to be confused with the Victorian Government's department Sustainability Victoria.

Environment Victoria represents environmental groups in the state such as friends groups and other grassroots organisations. Their aim is to reach all 5 million Victorians engaging everyone to help protect the environment.

After a brief introduction about the organisation, Nina spoke to us about the GreenTown program, an initiative that reaches out to different cultural groups in the community to inform and educate their members about sustainable living. Nina was telling us that in the process, very often they find that many people in these groups also have much to contribute from their own cultural experience to sustainable living.

Smokey played more great music including a track selected by Nina. You got to hear;

The most beautiful girl I the room (live) by Flight of the Concords.
A century of fakers by Belle and Sebastian
Hold on my heart by Sarah Blasko
Elephant Gun by Beirut (Nina’s selection)
Celia Ann by the Pixies.

We found ourselves quickly running out of time for this show as Nina proved to be another truly fantastic guest!

Listen to the show!

Environmentality 18 May 2011

2011-05-19T00:54:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners,

Today we spoke to Jenen Taylor who is the Media Officer at the E. W. Tipping Foundation. The foundation is a prominent service provider in disability, children, youth, families and aged across Victoria. The foundation has taken significant steps to improve its environmental footprint by reducing its water energy and waste impacts through the implementation of its SustainAbility project. The organisation has been nominated for the 2011 Premiers Sustainability awards in the Community Sector.

The foundation is working with people it supports and staff to save water, energy and waste in its group homes which showed consumption figures up to three times the Victorian average. As part of the program the foundation developed a SustainAbility Star-ter Kit which is a complete tool kit of information, activities, and resources for people with disability living in group homes, and their support staff and service providers, to implement household sustainability.

An important feature of the program has been the 6 Star Accreditation Program where a house is awarded a star for signing up for the program and a star each for committing to achieve improvements in the areas of Energy, Water, Waste and Shopping, Transport and Community Involvement.

Unfortunately we did not receive an SMS answer to our listener question for the day; “What award has the E. W. Tipping Foundation been nominated this year”? So listeners stay tuned next week as there may be another question so that we can give away our remaining box of chocolates! Remember, our SMS number for questions, comments during the show is 0447 777 989.

To complete the show Jaime presented a range of interesting articles from the latest CSIRO magazine ECOS which can be viewed on the magazines website. Some of the articles mentioned included; Greenland, Antarctic ice sheets melting faster than predicted, Towards baseload solar thermal power, and Rising CO2 plants and biodiversity.

As usual Smokey presented an eclectic selection of music for the show. You got to hear;

Business time by Flight of the Concords
Alright by Supergrass
Do you want to by Franz Ferdinand
Common people by Pulp
Roxanne by Katie Noonan and Kerin Schaupp
There she goes by The LA’s
I’m a believer by the Monkees

Next week we hope to play our guest Jenen Taylors request, something from Lady Gaga!

Listen to the show!

Environmentality 4 May 2011

2011-05-04T19:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners,

Today we decided to take advantage of a great article in the New Internationalist Magazine and we went through a number of myths and misconceptions that are often used by Climate Change deniers to argue their case. Smokey was put on the spot and he definitely rose to the challenge by providing eloquent arguments to counter these myths, and Jaime added a few additional facts from the article.

Some of the myths questioned were;

CO2 is not a greenhouse gas
Warming increases before CO2 increases
Some scientists do not agree with the scientific consensus
Arctic North West passage now navigable
The world isn’t really warming
The world cooled between 1940 and 1970
Climate change data has been manipulated
Our winters are colder
There are other effects greater than humans
Climate change caused by the sun
Climate change can have good effects

We were also happy to hear from Helen, a listener from Craigieburn who responded to our challenge and came up with an artist who has gone better solo than with a music group. Helen will receive a box of chocolates in the next few days.

Remember listeners that you can send SMS questions or comments while the show is on air to 0447 777 989, at the cost of a normal SMS.

So all in all, it was nother chilled out show with music selected by Smokey. You got to hear;

There is a light that never goes out by The Smiths
Radio by Teenage Fanclub
Imitation of Life by REM
Wonderwall by Oasis.

Listen to the show!

Environmentality 27 April 2011

2011-04-27T19:47:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners,
Today Jaime conducted our environmental quiz challenge asking Smokey and Peter a range of questions about climate change issues.
Smokey managed again to mention the desalination plant and at the end of the quiz pipped Peter at the post to win the competition scoring 11.5 to Peters 9.5.

Download the quiz!

Smokey provided another great selection of music. You heard;

Village green preservation society by The Kinks
Lover of a gentle kind by Country Town Collective
If white America told the truth for one day its world would fall apart by Manic Street Preachers.
War by Rats vs Possum
Do you realise? by Flaming Lips
Derwent river star by The Paradise Hotel

Another entertaining and informative show.

Listen to the show.

Environmentality 20 April 2011

2011-04-20T03:57:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners,

Today we spoke to Jacinta Cleary who is the editor of the Alternative Technology Associations ReNew magazine and Jim Green anti-nuclear campaigner at Friends of the Earth.

Jacinta gave us some general information about the ReNew magazine and also provided details about some of the articles in the current edition. ReNew has been published since 1980 and is a great resource of articles about making your home more sustainable. There are four issues per year and additional online information. ATA members are also able to download all 115 ReNew editions. The ATA also publishes the Sanctuary magazine which is about sustainable building design.

Jaime asked Jacinta about a competition being run in the April June edition where ideas are sought from readers about how to recycle TVs, e.g. as a fish bowl! We also heard about the church converting to solar. While the article “Getting the dope on hemp building” resulted in humorous comments about smoking your house we also gained an appreciation of hemp as a building material. Some interesting tips on maintaining your renewable systems in poor weather conditions; and looking after yourself. The Eco-Cubby project by regional Arts Victoria teaches kids about sustainable building design. The final article discussed was about double glazing and the benefits it provides in maintaining the temperature and energy efficiency of the home. Jacinta provided us with a great insight into the ReNew magazine highlighting its excellence as a source of information about renewable energy technologies, and sustainable systems.

Jim Green our second guest brought us up to date with developments after the Fukushima nuclear accident. There has generally been a cessation of radiation leakage from the plant. TEPCO the plant operator has outlined its immediate plans to contain the plant and then begin decommissioning which could take decades and billions of dollars. Jim felt the Fukushima accident probably means nuclear power is off the agenda in Australia for many years. Nuclear and renewable powers are of comparable price but more expensive than coal so that if we are going to decarbonise our economy, given the problems of nuclear we are better of going for renewable. Given the costs involved it is likely that the Fukushima clean-up costs will be carried by the government. Friends of the Earth are campaigning to highlight Australian mining companies’ culpability in supplying TEPCO and in the problem of nuclear weapons proliferation. After the Fukushima site is cleaned up local fishing and agricultural industries will be affected for many years.

Smokey gave us a great selection of music, we got to hear;

She kissed me (It felt like a hit) by Spiritualized
Life on Mars by Neil Hannon and Yann Tiersen
A Forest (acoustic version) by The Cure
All tomorrow's parties by Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds
Help! by The Damned

Listen to the show!

Environmentality 13 April 2011

2011-04-14T13:35:00.000-07:00

Dear Environmentality listeners,
The team went into panic mode today as we arrived at the studio to find it locked, running on auto pilot because Barry the previous presenter was away. Environmentality just made it to air on time after frantic efforts to get the keys to unlock the studio and retrieve alarm security codes.
This week as we had no guests on the show we discussed some environmentally themed articles from the media. And there is no shortage of them at the moment particularly around climate change and the carbon tax.
Jaime first brought us up to date with the escalation of the Fukushima disaster with an article from The Age, Disaster at Fukushima now as bad as Chernobyl. The article follows Japan increasing its assessment of the accident at the No. 1 nuclear power plant from a rating of 5 to the worst rating of 7. It is felt this will have consequences for the global nuclear industry showing that current safety standards may be inadequate.
In a second article Labor to ease carbon squeeze from the Weekly times Jaime described how the Government plans to compensate households for the carbon tax. Our general consensus was that it is important that compensation does not remove the price signal from power bills to reduce consumption.
Peter presented another article from The Age; Climate change link to earthquakes. The article suggests long-term climate change could be responsible for moving the Earth’s tectonic plates and may influence earthquakes. Scientists have found that as monsoons in the area of the Indian tectonic plate increased the plate moved by almost one centimetre a year. The scientists are studying what caused plate motions to change and which regions are more prone to large earthquakes. This observation means that the scientists may also need to consider climate over the last million years.
The final media article discussed was from the ABC Lateline program; Woodside signals war over carbon tax. The panel discussed the problems of lobbying in our political decision making process as recently demonstrated by the mining industry and the super profits tax. In this case Woodside are claiming that gas is a clean energy source and should not be penalised by a carbon tax. Smokey pointed out that a carbon tax would give LNG a competitive advantage over coal. On the Landline program Piers Verstegen from the Conservation Council of WA pointed out that on a life cycle basis after accounting for the high energy requirements to liquefy natural gas LNG is not much cleaner than coal.

Smokey again presented a great selection of music despite our rushed commencement to the show and raiding of the stations music library. We got to hear;
1. The full version of our Environmentality theme song, the theme from Get Carter by Stereolab.
2. Strawberry Fields Forever (Love Remix) by The Beatles
3. Sao Paulo by Morcheeba
4. Karmacoma by Massive Attack
5. Happy City by Steve Cummings.
The program stimulated some interesting discussions about carbon tax, political lobbying, and our impact on the environment.
Next week we have two guests; Jim Green anti-nuclear campaigner from Friends of the Earth, and Jacinta Cleary ReNew magazine editor from the Alternative Technology Association.

Listen to the show!