Oxfordshire ClimateXchange update #59 – May ’10
The latest news and upcoming events from ClimateXchange. Also available on www.climatex.org
With election reaching fever pitch, here’s a selection of news and upcoming events to keep your feet on the ground. There’s good news from North Leigh, and details of the new £99 insulation deal and upcoming trainings from the Energy Saving Trust, plus an increasing number of events. Happy reading, and I wish you all a relaxing May weekend.
jo
1. IN THE NEWS
1.1 EMAIL YOUR PARLIAMENTARY CANDIDATES RE CLIMATE CHANGE & HEALTH
Disappointed by the low profile of climate change in the election campaigning? Now you can contact your Prospective Parliamentary Candidates at a time when they might just listen. The Campaign for Greener Healthcare has teamed up with 38 degrees so that you can quickly and easily ask your parliamentary candidates about their views on climate change and what steps they will take to address this threat to health. It only takes about two minutes to do, click here http://www.38degrees.org.uk/page/speakout/HealthcareClimat to go to the 38degrees website.
This campaign has been organised by the Green Health Coalition, formed of the Campaign for Greener Healthcare, Medact, Medsin and the Climate and Health Council *www.greenerhealthcare.org*
1.2 Over 170 Candidates from all Parties sign the Simpol Pledge
With only a week to go to the general election, a record number of candidates from all the main UK political parties have so far signed the Pledge to implement the Simultaneous Policy (Simpol), a range of measures to solve global problems like climate change, financial market regulation, global poverty, and other issues where global cooperation is needed. For further information visit www.simpol.org (global site) and/or www.simpol.org.uk (UK site)
1.3 Live blog: Ed Miliband and Franny Armstrong's green election road-trip
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/blog/2010/apr/29/green-election-miliband-armstrong-roadshow
1.4 Tiempo magazine – weekly magazine covering climate and development
http://www.tiempocyberclimate.org/newswatch/
1.5 Crowd-sourced energy
A London-based architectural research firm, Facility: Innovate, is developing an energy harvester for crowded areas such as sports arenas and shopping centres. The technology will be invisible to the people it feeds on: they will simply walk over what looks like a normal floor tile. But their steps will push down on a pneumatic device that drives air through a turbine to generate electricity. The company plans to install its first device later this year in a US shopping centre, with a UK site to follow soon after. See:
http://www.the-facility.co.uk/innovate/
1.6 Goldman Environmental Prize - videos
The U.S.-based Goldman Environmental Prize is the world's biggest award for grassroots environmentalism. The prize was begun in 1990 by philanthropists Richard and Rhoda Goldman to encourage environmental protection. Check out what this year’ s prize recipients have to say, by clicking on their profiles:
http://www.goldmanprize.org/recipients/current
- RESOURCES
2.1 Check out the new imeasure web-interface when you put in your meter readings this week! http://www.imeasure.org.uk/
2.2 Introducing: SMEasure www.smeasure.org.uk
SMEasure’s energy monitoring website is free and has been specially designed for small and medium sized businesses. The site comes from the Energy Research Group at the Oxford University’s Centre for the Environment so all data also contributes towards research undertaken by the University, whilst illustrating where businesses can save energy, reduce carbon emissions and essentially, cut bills.
SMEasure will provide you with an indication of your building's energy overuse/under-use and overspend/under spend and provide you with a free A-G rating which will provide an excellent indication of the rating you would likely receive with an official DEC, without the investment.
2.3 Travel planning
Going on holiday? See the LoCO2 10:10 travel planning tool here:
http://loco2travel.com/cutting-your-10-for-1010/
2.4 Oxford Cycle Challenge
The Oxford Cycle Challenge is a fun and free workplace based challenge that encourages people to give cycling a go! The CTC has selected a handful of cities to take part in the Workplace Challenge, and Dan from Oxford Cycle Workshop is coordinating the challenge for Oxford. The challenge is based on workplaces and departments signing up and their employees recording their cycling journeys as you all compete for some exciting prizes (including a beautiful bike worth £600). Organisations across Oxford will compete from Monday 7 to Sunday 27 June 2010 to see who can get the most staff to ride a bike for just 10 minutes or more. See more: http://www.oxfordcyclechallenge.org.uk/
2.5 Beyond the Pole
A fun film which looks worth watching: http://beyondthepole.com/
2.6 Ecomodo
Ecomodo is a new online service that enables people to lend and borrow
everyday objects, skills and spaces. www.ecomodo.com . It's free to register and open to everyone in the UK. Please sign up and invite all your friends, colleagues and neighbours to join in too.
2.7 Go for the green quiz!
Take the green quiz here:
http://planetgreen.discovery.com/games-quizzes/tom-green-quiz-game.html?campaign=th_nav_quiz
- COMMUNITIES UPDATE
3.1 Challenge North Leigh scoops £20,000
If you haven’t already heard the fantastic news – North Leigh has reduced its energy consumption by 10% and met the target set by Challenge North Leigh. Scottish and Southern Energy have agreed to pay the £20,000 prize money. Well done to all parishioners and keep up the good work! Further info: http://www.challengenorthleigh.org/
3.2 Beechcroft Road DIY Streets
Beechcroft Road residents Association has been given the go-ahead to implement their DIY Streets scheme – including cycle racks and trees. Further info: www.beechcroftroad.org.uk
3.3 Green Communities newsletter
See the latest Green Communities Newsletter: www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/cafe
3.4 Sustainable Witney: Check out their website on: http://sustainablewitney.org.uk/
3.5 Transport Funding Available
An opportunity has arisen to secure £5000 of funding for a transport specific community based project. The judges are looking for original ideas in three areas: Vehicles and Fuels, Smarter/Eco Driving and Reducing Car Use.
If you think your community has some good ideas or projects I would encourage you to apply. Further info: www.lowcvp.org.uk/communitychallenge .
3.6 Garden Guardians wanted
Barracks lane gardens is looking for more Garden Guardians so we can ensure the garden is open every weekend from Easter to autumn. Could you offer 3 hours of your time, once a month? If so, contact Julieanne at barrackslanegarden@yahoo.co.uk or 01865 236 088 for further information Further info: http://www.barrackslanegarden.org.uk/
3.7 CALLING ALL LOCAL ENVIRONMENT GROUPS
Are you looking for more volunteers? v involved Oxfordshire can help you recruit volunteers aged 16-25 to help! We promote part time / full time and one off events to our volunteers county wide! + if you would like support to develop volunteering opportunities for young people FREE support & training is available. For more information contact Claire Jones - Youth Volunteer Development Manager - Claire.jones@ocvys.org mailto:Claire.jones@ocvys.org 07825 232 500 / 01865 600983 (from ONCF update)
- ECO-RENOVATION
4.1 £99 Insulation Deal
For a limited period, local homeowners and private tenants can get cavity wall or loft insulation fitted for a standard price of £99 each. At this low price insulation pays for itself fast in reduced energy bills.
The Council’s £99 deal is subject to funding and is being managed exclusively by Cocoon, a long standing partner of the Council. You may have to pay more if your property is larger than average for the number of bedrooms, or access to walls or loft is restricted or extra vents are required.
To find out more, call 0800 8048 777 and ask for the ‘Oxon Deal’ or visit www.cocoonyourhome.co.uk
4.2 Energy Auditing for Old and listed Buildings
Sustainable Charlbury have arranged training by EST on Tuesday 25th May from 9.45 – 4.30 pm. You will need to be registered as Green Communities members before the course. You can do this by going to http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/cafe/Green-Communities/About-us/Become-a-Member-or-Update-Profile . There are a limited number of places available to external delegates and these will be offered on a first come first serve basis. Please fill out the application form which can be accessed here: http://climatex.org/articles/news/community-events-may/ and forward to greencommunities@est.org.uk. For further information please call 0844 848 0077.
4.3 Energy Auditing for Community Buildings
The Energy Auditing for Community Buildings will take place in Oxford on 26th May, led by an expert from EST Green Communities head office. There are 20 spaces available, and final details are presently being confirmed. Please email Mathew.Roberts@est-tvs.org.uk if you’re interested in attending, and he will email you final details and booking information
To subscribe to the Oxfordshire Eco-renovation Mailing List email jo@climatex.org with ‘Ecoren_subscribe’ in the subject line
4.4 Researcher seeks households who have considered renewables
Wanted: - Some who tried to put renewables in their house, began to think about it and then stopped because of several reasons. (I need to find around 5 to 10 households in this case)
-Households who did it while a refurbishment (those are the most important number in my research,that is to say around 20)
I would like to understand why they chose to put a renewable, what does it reveal from their interests, how they did and what happened before, during and after the installation. Also, I would like to understand throughout the process, who can have help them, or at the opposite, slow the installation.
It is possible for me to call them, or to see them wherever they want, I don't want to enter in their privacy so I would perfectly understand if they prefer me not to come in their house, but to see them in a public area.
If you care interested, contact: Marjorie FILLIASTRE mj.sorbonne@gmail.com 07500 805 800
4.5 The Ideal Green Home Show went well last weekend. You can check the details of exhibitors, and download the newly updated Oxfordshire Eco-renovation Directory here http://climatex.org/articles/eco-renovation/ideal-green-home-show/
A big THANK YOU to all the volunteers and stall holders, and to North Aston Organics and Veg In Clover for help distributing info.
4.6 Sheffield's green roof safaris: audio slideshow
The Yorkshire city has started a programme of 'green roof safaris' to show how topping new and regenerated buildings can improve the environment and encourage biodiversity
See the video at:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/audioslideshow/2010/apr/08/sheffield-green-roof-safari
4.7 Ecoworkshops http://www.ecoworkshops.co.uk/
Going Green: Re-inventing Family Homes and Lifestyles
This workshop is perfect for homeowners undertaking their own home redesign or briefing builders or Architects. Use SEED-groups professional knowledge and years of experience to help inspire and inform your eco design. This is a unique opportunity to ask eco advisers questions; meet like minded people and build your network of sources and recommendations.
Price £65.00 Book this workshop by choosing a date below:
4.8 Renewable energy coalition releases 12 step manifesto
With the general election approaching, nine of the UK’s leading renewable energy trade associations have signed up to a joint Manifesto, outlining proposals for the timely delivery of 2020 targets and urging the Government to act now on the looming energy and climate crisis. The 12 proposals would help ensure Britain delivers 15% of its energy from renewables by 2020, fulfilling its EU obligations and building a thriving ‘green collar’ industry sector in the process.
For the full text of the manifesto, see:
http://www.scottishrenewables.com/admin/Application/DocumentEditor/MultimediaGallery/64ee4adb-0286-45c0-b807-ba408359d85a-1.pdf
4.9 Build Your own wind turbine Oxford, 14-18th June
An introductory, hands-on course for anyone thinking of building their own turbine, as well as some hands on fun for anyone interested in wind. Delivered by www.v3power.co.uk
Further info: http://climatex.org/media/attachments/early_2010_courses.pdf
- JOBS
5.1 New post: Energy Officer at Cherwell District Council.
Closing date 6th May, full details here: http://www.environmentjobs.co.uk/job.cfm?id=7934 or contact jo.colwell@cherwell-dc.gov.uk
- UPCOMING EVENTS
More events on www.climatex.org/ and a full list of Environmental lectures available here: http://www.eci.ox.ac.uk/oxfordenv/index.php
| 6.1 Mayday Plant Swap, Saturday 1st May |
|
1pm-4pm. This Local food event is for novice and expert gardeners alike. Please bring excess seeds, seedlings or plants to exchange. Don’t worry if you have no plants to swap, just make a donation. There will be a presentation about some methods for plant propagation at 2pm. Entry by donation. There will some refreshments available.
6.2 Feeding Oxford - Tues 4th May
Come to a debate on food supply: Feeding Oxford: Investing in a Food Supply Fit for the Future. Speaker: Mark Winne
Tuesday 4th May, 8pm at Vaults and Garden, Radcliffe Square, Oxford
Admission is Free, but space is limited, so RSVP to: Ruth West info@CampaignForRealFarming.org (see attached flier for more details)
6.3 SCIENCE OXFORD LIVE CLEAN AND GREEN FESTIVAL
Events on Thursday evenings, further full info on:
www.scienceoxfordlive.com/
Thurs 6th May 7.30 pm – An ABC of the Climate
Thurs 13th May 7.30 pm – Earth’s Changing Climate
Thurs 20th May 7.30 pm – Climate Change and the Developing World
Thurs 27th May 7.30 pm – The Future of Farming
6.4 Wolvercote Wander – Sun 9th May
On Sunday 9th May, come with neighbours & friends on the Wolvercote Wander. See http://www.wolvercote.org/LowCarbonWolvercote/LCW.htm . It's a celebration of the small, low-tech things, as well as the big projects so if you have any ways you're living a lower carbon life, tips, stories, etc - please tell Michael Buck (tel: 515777; e-mail: sheilabuck@btinternet.com ) so that they can be mentioned, and perhaps pointed out, during the Wander. http://bit.ly/awolvercotewander
6.5. 7th - 9th May 2010 Power – Up London: 2010, A training weekend on the planning system and your legal rights
For full details go to: http://www.foe.co.uk/community/news/power_up_22627.html
Power Up is a weekend of workshops and networking to empower people to make a difference.
Find out how to use the system effectively. Learn how to confidently use legal and planning knowledge and share your ideas with others. Gain
the tools, confidence and contacts to help make your community a cleaner, healthier, fairer place to live.
6.6 Monday 10th May 2010 Book Launch: Requiem for a Species: Why We Resist the Truth About Climate Change, by Clive Hamilton
Location: Blackwell’s Bookshop Oxford, 48-51 Broad Street, Oxford OX1 3BQ (map) Time: 6:45 for 7pm Speakers: Clive Hamilton and Chris Goodall
Tickets: £2*
Full info: http://www.earthscan.co.uk/Portals/0/pdfs/Oxford_10th_May_2010.pdf
A talk by CLIVE HAMILTON will be followed by a live interview of Clive by CHRIS GOODALL (author of How to Live a Low-carbon Life – now in its second edition), and then Chris will chair a Q & A with the audience.
Are we all climate denialists...?
It’s easy to ridicule the conspiracy theories of denialists, but how many of us have truly faced up to what the scientists are telling us? If we accept what the experts say then it’s the end of progress as we know it and we are heading into a very unpleasant future...So what are we doing about it?
This event is with tickets only. Please quote ‘Requiem event’. Tickets cost £2 and can be obtained by visiting the Customer Service Department on the Second Floor of Blackwell Bookshop, by phoning 01865 333623, or e-mailing oxford@blackwell.co.uk.
6.7 Wednesday 12 May CAN NUCLEAR POWER SAVE THE PLANET?
Blake Lapthorn Solicitors, Seacourt Tower, West Way, Oxford, OX2 0FB
Free 7.30 am reg for 8am business
Speaker: Mark Lynas, climate change specialist.
The aim of the Green Breakfasts is to encourage a discussion of environmental issues and opportunities surrounding climate change in a lively and relaxed forum. For bookings, contact kelly.benfield@bllaw.co.uk or call 01865 253268
6.8 Lubbock Lecture & Open Day
Professor David MacKay FRS The Department of Engineering Science is delighted to announce that its 36th Maurice Lubbock Memorial Lecture entitled "Sustainable Energy - without the hot air," will be given by Professor David J C MacKay FRS, Chief Scientific Advisor to the Department of Energy and Climate Change. The Lecture will take place on Thursday, 13th May 2010.
Further info: http://www.eng.ox.ac.uk/events/lubbock/
6.9 Climate Reach 14 MAY and 21 MAY 9.15am - 12.15pm
The Old Music Hall, 106-108 Cowley Road, Oxford
What is it? Climate Reach is a crash course in climate change using creative learning approaches to engage people, increase awareness and support positive action on something that affects us all.
Call ReachAbility on 01865 403 129 or email us at info@reachability.co.uk. We need to receive your payment at least one week in advance. These 2 sessions are linked so we encourage you to attend both if you can. However, it’s still OK to take part if you can only make one morning.
See directions on the Contact Us section in our website www.reachability.co.uk
6.10 22-23 May NURTURING HOPE IN A TIME OF FALLING LIGHT
Weekend workshop facilitated by Nick Totton , Grove House in Iffley. Further info: http://www.grovehouse.info/
How do we accept the unacceptable? How do we come to terms with the imminence of irreversible change facing our world? Suddenly it feels as if time is running out, and that no one knows what to do – or rather, it’s obvious what to do, but we seem unable to do it. This workshop, at a brightening time of the year and a darkening time for the planet, is a space to think, feel and talk about these issues that are so close to our hearts. A space to grieve, rage, feel terrified, immobilized; to find creative energy and to move forward. See event flier: http://climatex.org/media/attachments/Nick_FallingLight_72.pdf
6.11 Fri 28th May: Oxford Nappy Free Baby Workshop:
Create a unique bond with your baby learning how to recognise and respond to baby's toileting needs. Find out more about this eco -friendly ( and baby-friendly) alternative to full - time nappies. Last Friday in month at Barracks Lane Community Garden. For more info see www.oxfordnappyfreebaby.co.uk or contact Amber Hatch at amberkhatch@yahoo.co.uk
6.12 Oxford Energy Futures
11 June Rewley House, Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JA
A conference focusing on cutting-edge energy topics given by researchers at Oxford University and with contributions from scientists and practitioners at other organisations and businesses. Cost: Full fee £75, students £40. Free places available to Oxford postgraduate students who present a poster (poster space limited). Fees include refreshments and lunch.
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For further info and to get involved, contact info@climatex.org
Email upcoming events to info@climatex.org or upload them yourself: http://climatex.org/whats-new/
Subscribe to this update by sending a blank email to: climatex-subscribe@climatex.org
Jo Hamilton
ClimateXChange Coordinator
Environmental Change Institute
Oxford University Centre for the Environment
Dyson Perrins Building
South Parks Rd
Oxford OX1 3QY
t: 01865 275 856
e: jo.hamilton@ouce.ox.ac.uk
www.climatex.org
Come to the Ideal Green Home Show 23-24th April 2010, Oxford Town Hall. Full details: http://climatex.org/articles/eco-renovation/ideal-green-home-show/
See our latest update: www.climatex.org/whats-new/
Subscribe to our fortnightly email updates : send a blank email to: climatex-subscribe@climatex.org
