Environmental Tipping Points

We must act now to avoid the tipping points of runaway global warming. A tipping point occurs when climate changes pass a "critical threshold at which a small change in human activity can have a large, long-term consequence for the Earth's climate system." As opposed the gradual, long-term warming trend, such a tipping point could accelerate or change the effects already being perceived due to global warming. Researchers have identified nine possible tipping points: The Indian summer monsoon; Arctic sea ice, the Sahara and Sahel in Africa could change dramatically, the Amazon rainforest could die back significantly, the Boreal Forest could die back, the Atlantic thermohaline circulation, the El Nino Southern Oscillation, he Greenland ice sheet and the West Antarctic ice sheet.

The Zayed Future Energy Prize for Renewable Energy and Sustainability

The Zayed Future Energy Prize for renewable energy and sustainability began in 2008 and has been awarded annually to large corporations, individuals, small businesses and non-government organizations that have displayed evident effort in advancing renewable energy and sustainable technologies. The 2013 edition of the Zayed Future Energy Prize for renewable energy and sustainability will for the first time offer a special prize for high schools starting to engage in the sustainability business. Renewable energy prize opens $500,000 award in the high school category.  This new category will award $500,000 to be divided among five regions – the Americas, Europe, Asia, Africa and Oceania.

NABCEP Sales Certification

On July 16, 2012 the NABCEP Sales Certification training will be taking place at Atlantic Cape Community College, Mays Landing Campus East from 6pm – 9pm. The fee is $1,299 (Tuition $499, Materials $250, Lab $550). This NABCEP approved training is a PV Entry Level Exam based on a set of learning objectives developed by NABCEP Committee of PV subject matter experts. Concepts will include: Qualify the Customer; Site Analysis; Conceptual Design; Financial Costs, Incentives and Savings; Financial Benefit Analysis and Financing; Nonfinancial Benefit Analysis; Performance Analysis; and Preparing Proposals.

Clean Energy Week in Sydney Australia

On the 25th of July to the 27th of July, Clean Energy Week will take place in Sydney Australia. This three day long event includes a dynamic, industry-driven conference program, a huge trade exhibition, a schools' program and events for the general public.Clean Energy Week is Australia's largest event for the renewable energy and energy efficiency industries, incorporating ATRAA (Australia's largest solar conference)

Transforming the UK's Electricity Market (Event)

The event Transforming the UK's electricity market deals with the situation one year on from the Reform White Paper and the Ofgem Review. It will take place on July 12, 2012. Delegates will assess the ongoing transformation of the UK's electricity system. Planned sessions focus on the progress that is being made, and the next steps in delivering the key elements of the market reform package including discussion on taking forward the Emissions Performance Standard and Carbon Price Floor for decarbonising electricity, and the proposed Capacity Mechanism for ensuring the future security of electricity supplies. In the context of market regulation, the agenda also includes discussion on the extent to which the regulatory environment has been strengthened since the Ofgem Review, as well as the further work that is required to ensure the protection of consumers and that investment in the energy sector is cost-effective.

London Cleantech Cluster (Event)

London Cleantech Cluster is produced by Rushlight Events. It will take place in London, UK. This event will provide a platform to bring together all the various initiatives, activities and programmes undertaken by organisations throughout the region to support the development of cleantech businesses and to facilitate the deployment of sustainable alternatives.

Four Training Events From the Green Power Academy

Here are four events taking place in London UK produced by the Green Power Academy. They will be taking place between the 13th and the 18th of July 2012. These four events involve renewable technologies, economics and financing. For more information and registration information see below:

Foresight NEXT Professional Development Program (Sustainability Courses)

Foresight NEXT is a unique program that combines interactive seminars and dynamic speakers with engaging site visits. This program is designed to help professionals integrate sustainability into their companies’ operations. This approach delivers the judgment, economics, strategies and communication necessary to affect positive change.

Annual US SRI Conference for Responsible Investors (Event)

The largest and longest running annual US SRI Conference moves to east coast for 2012. Early bird registration rate savings have been extended to July 10th for The SRI Conference on Sustainable, Responsible, Impact Investing. The event will take place October 2-4, 2012 at the Mohegan Sun Conference Center in Connecticut.

Biomimicry in Action: Janine Benyus on Design (Video)

Janine Benyus has a message for inventors: When solving a design problem, look to nature first. There you'll find inspired designs for making things waterproof, aerodynamic, solar-powered and more. Here she reveals dozens of new products that take their cue from nature with spectacular results. A self-proclaimed nature nerd, Janine Benyus' concept of biomimicry has galvanized scientists, architects, designers and engineers into exploring new ways in which nature's successes can inspire humanity.

Canada has the Dirtiest Oil on Earth (Video)

In June, the Sierra Club released The Dirtiest Oil on Earth, an animation on the dangers of tar sands crude and pipelines transporting the world’s dirtiest oil from Alberta, Canada, through the US The animation illustrates the dangers of spills, destruction of natural areas, contamination of air and water supplies and political influence exerted by the oil industry to build pipeline projects designed to transport tar sands across the US to reach foreign markets.

Video on the Global Environment Outlook (GEO-5)

The fifth edition of the Global Environmental Outlook (GEO-5), launched on the eve of the Rio+20 Summit, assessed 90 of the most-important environmental goals and objectives and found that significant progress had only been made in four.

Video on the Hopeful Elements in the Global Environmental Outlook (GEO-5)

The fifth edition of the Global Environmental Outlook (GEO-5), assessed environmental goals and objectives. Despite the fact that nations have fallen far short of the pledges they have made, there are some glimmers of hope. GEO-5 also reveals which strategies work best and policies that offer real solutions. Some of the successes involve community based conservation efforts, biological corridors, new farming methods, recovery of degraded lands, market based mechanisms, wetlands conservation, marine protected areas, sustainable fishing, recycling, feed in tariffs, and adaptation strategies. If these initiatives were scaled up they could help put economic and social development on a sustainable footing.

Montreal Protocol - Global Environmental Outlook (GEO-5)

The fifth edition of the Global Environmental Outlook (GEO-5) was published on June 6, 2012. This United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report indicates that the Montreal Protocol has been very effective in elimination the use of Ozone depleting substances. The world has nearly eliminated the production and use of ozone depleting substances, under the Montreal Protocol.

It is estimated that implementation of the Protocol will result, in the United States alone, in 22 million fewer cases of cataracts in people born between 1985 and 2100, and 6.3 million fewer skin cancer deaths by mid-century.

Ecofreek Reuse Search Engine

Ecofreek.com is a search engine that searches the web for free and 'for swap/trade' items people no longer need from over 15+ major sources. Ecofreek provides the most diverse and accurate results anywhere in the world. They also encourage people to exchange and re-use items though their search engine and also our 'places to give things away' section. Ecofreek is funded by donation and they offer packages including shirts, cloth grocery bags, stickers etc in exchange for donations. To go to ecofreek click here.

Air Pollution in the Global Environmental Outlook (GEO 5)

The fifth edition of the Global Environmental Outlook (GEO-5) was published on June 6, 2012. This United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report indicates there are major issues related to air pollution. Air pollution is among the main causes of premature deaths and health problems, especially in children.Indoor air pollution from particulate matter is responsible for nearly 2 million premature deaths annually - including 900,000 deaths in children under the age of five.

Out-door particulate matter may be responsible for around 3.7 million deaths annually. Ground-level ozone is responsible for 700,000 respiratory deaths, over 75 per cent of which occur in Asia.

Biodiversity Global Environmental Outlook (GEO-5)

The fifth edition of the Global Environmental Outlook (GEO-5) was published on June 6, 2012. This United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) report indicates there are major issues related to biodiversity. The world failed to reach the Millennium Development Goal (MDG) target of a significant reduction in the rate of biodiversity loss by 2010. Around 20 per cent of vertebrate species are under threat. The extinction risk is increasing faster for corals than for any other group of living organisms, with the condition of coral reefs declining by 38 per cent since 1980. Rapid contraction is projected by 2050.

Key Findings of the Global Environmental Outlook (GEO-5)

The fifth edition of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Global Environmental Outlook (GEO-5) was published on June 6, 2012. Some to the reports key findings include projections that see substantial GHG and temperature increases. The report also covers air and water pollution, economic implications, agricultural impacts, extinction risks, and fishing. Here are some key facts and figures from the report:

Under current models, greenhouse gas emissions could double over the next 50 years, leading to rise in global temperature of 3 degrees Celsius or more by the end of the century.

Independence Day 2012: Declaration of Freedom from Fossil Fuels

Two hundred and thirty six years ago, the colonies freed themselves from the injustice of British rule, now America needs to free itself from the injustice of fossil fuels. The United States' Declaration of Independence is a statement adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. On that day, thirteen American colonies proclaimed their freedom from Great Britain. On the fourth of July 2012, America needs a declaration of freedom from fossil fuels.

A few years after the American revolution, the industrial revolution dawned, beginning America's meteoric rise to global dominance. However, fossil fuels are the engine that drove this growth and they are also the leading cause of climate change.

The 10 Greatest Social Entrepreneurs of All Time

While it is admirable to build a successful business of any kind, some entrepreneurs do more than just make a profit with the fruits of their labor. Some actually help others, bringing resources, opportunities, training, and other assets to those who need them most. These social entrepreneurs use their know-how and business savvy to make the world a better place, combining a traditional business model with a pressing social mission in ways that have been helping to make big changes in places around the world for decades. Here, we highlight just a few of the standout social entrepreneurs who're showing that successful businesses don't have to just watch the bottom line and can truly be socially and environmentally conscious.

Best Foreign Corporations with Operations in Canada

Here is a list of the top non-Canadian corporations with operations in Canada as compiled by Corporate Knights. Corporate Knights “is a media, research and financial products company focused on quantifying and animating clean capitalism drivers for decision makers.” Corporate Knights Capital is a source for objective, data-driven ‘clean capitalism’ ratings for over 2000 companies globally.  To be on this list the companies must also “be listed on the Financial Post 500, and rank among the top 10 per cent of 4500 global companies according to the Global Sustainability Research Alliance (GSRA).” The GSRA is one of the “world’s largest sustainability research consortiums. According to GSRA and Corporate Knights the top Foreign Corporations operating in Canada:

Canada's Best and Worst Green Cities

According to a 2011 index sponsored by Siemens, Vancouver is the greenest city in Canada and Montreal is the least green. The index measured and rated the environmental performance of 27 cities in the US and Canada in nine categories: CO2, energy, land use, buildings, transport, water, waste, air and environmental governance. The index was a project run by the Economist Intelligence Unit, an in-house research unit of the British magazine The Economist. Cities were selected independently rather than through requests from city governments to be included. A panel of global experts in urban environmental sustainability advised the unit in developing methodology for the index.

Four European Environmental Events in July (Part One)

In the first half of July 2012 there are four notable environmentally themed events that will be taking place in Europe. The first is a summer course on European Environmental Law, the second is an environmental finance event, the third is an event focusing on sustainable development, and the fourth is an event focusing on carbon finance for renewable energy.

Water Pollution 2012 (Event)

On the 10th to the 12th of July, an event titled "Water Pollution 2012" will be held in Wessex, UK. This is the 11th International Conference in the series on Modelling, Monitoring and Management of Water Pollution. The meeting, which started in 1991, has always been very successful and provides a forum for the discussion and exchange of information between scientists, managers and academics from different areas of water contamination. The conference creates an international venue for interdisciplinary discussion and dissemination of work related to water quality and environmental problems caused by the increase of pollutant loads and the inappropriate management of water resources.

Building the Water Agenda 2012 (Event)

On the 9th to the 10th of July an event will take place at Chatham House in London, UK titled Building the Water Agenda. The opening session will outline the challenges associated with water and its links to other global policy agendas: climate change, economic growth, agriculture, environment, human needs and foreign policy. It will also address the challenges of addressing water security at policy levels and the concrete and tangible pathways for policy and action that are needed.

International Conference on Waste Management and the Environment 2012 (Event)

On the 4th to the 6th of July in New Forest, UK, an event will take place titled the International Conference on Waste Management and the Environment. The event is organised every two years by the Wessex Institute of Technology in collaboration with other renown institutions. Waste management is becoming one of the key problems of the modern world, an issue that is intensified by the volume and complexity of waste discarded by society's domestic and industrial activities. Unfortunately, many of the practices adopted in the past were aimed at short-term solutions without sufficient regard or knowledge for long term implications on health, the environment or sustainability and this, in many cases, leads to the need to take difficult and expensive remedial action.

Independence Day: Environmental Action Now!

Our nation has always been defined by innovation and a fiery will to overcome adversity. Our lives today are defined by the sacrifices, ideas, and most importantly the actions of our predecessors. They overcame colonial oppression and two World Wars, and heeded one President's call to reach for the stars. Millions now fight and die to secure what they achieved. But a new challenge is on the horizon. Climate change threatens to undo some of the progress that they made possible. And yet, we are at a crossroads, one that could lead us to a new and innovative future of clean energy and stewardship of the planet, or one that could lead back into ignorance and pollution. What will define your generation? What will future historians say about your time? The actions of our predecessors overcame tyranny from afar and built a nation of honor, innovation, and leadership. Will yours?

Related Post
Independence Day: Declaration of Freedom from Fossil Fuels

A Positive Environmental Message

It is easy to be overwhelmed with the plethora of fear inspiring environmental news. That is why it is so important to craft messages that encourage people to do something positive rather than merely ruminate on all the bad news. This simple message from the Mississippi Valley Conservancy is a positive message for those who want to prevent environmental catastrophe and save precious natural areas.

Canada's Clean 50 from Delta Management Group

The Clean50 list was compiled by Delta Management Group. In order to ensure that The Clean50 embraced all sectors, a total of 16 categories were constructed and then at least two people were recognized in each category, based primarily on their impact within the last two years.  Delta Management Group is a twenty year old boutique search firm with a growing practice in clean tech, corporate social responsibility and sustainability professionals. Formed in 1992, Delta has a long track record of building exceptional teams, and working closely with management and stakeholders on a long-term basis as a trusted advisor and true business partner.

Canada's Green Provincial Report Card

As reported in the Miratel blog here is the third bi-annual Green Provincial Report Card published by Corporate Knights. Corporate Knights “is a media, research and financial products company focused on quantifying and animating clean capitalism drivers for decision makers.” The criteria they used for the 2012 Green Provincial Report Card was: air and climate, water, nature, transportation, waste, energy and buildings, and innovation. In addition to these seven categories, they reviewed some 35 indicators to help analyze the environmental performance of each province and territory.

Best CSR Business Rankings from Miratel Blog

Miratel blog has published an impressive number of posts on corporate social responsibility (CSR) including a series of lists that rank the best companies in Canada and the world. Here is a brief summary of some of the rankings published in the Miratel blog in 2012.

Top Canadian Corporate Citizens (2012)

Here is the eleventh annual Best 50 Corporate Citizens in Canada in 2012 as reviewed by the Miratel blog. The list was compiled and published by Corporate Knights. Corporate Knights “is a media, research and financial products company focused on quantifying and animating clean capitalism drivers for decision makers.” Corporate Knights is a source of objective, data-driven ‘clean capitalism’ ratings for over 2000 companies globally.”

There is growing recognition among the country’s biggest companies that business-as-usual isn’t a sustainable option over the long term” Tyler Hamilton, Editor-In-Chief Corporate Knights.

Canada an Environmental Pariah at Rio+20

Canada has once again attracted attention for its environmental contempt. At Rio+20 Canada along with nations like Venezuela and Saudi Arabia tried to undermine a motion calling for a phasing out of fossil fuel subsidies. Even though the International Institute for Sustainable Development estimates that the federal government could save more than $1.3 billion per year if it phases out all of the existing subsidies for the oil and gas industries. Canada's federal government is fighting hard to do all it can for dirty sources of energy while US President Barack Obama has called for an end to oil and coal subsidies, and the European Union has called for a firm commitment to phase-out of fossil fuels altogether.

Three Solar Power Events (June 2012)

Solar Investment Forum 2012 in Munich On the 13th of June a solar investment forum will be held in Munich, Germany. Returning for its 5th year the 2012 Solar Investment Forum is an official Side Event of Intersolar Europe which will bring together leading experts from across the solar sector for a day of unrivalled networking and the opportunity to hear about the latest financing opportunities and developments in the solar sector. For more information or to register click here.  

Three Wind Power Events in London (June 2012)

Global Offshore Wind 2012 in London: On the 13th and 14th of June a conference will be held on wind energy in London, UK. This event is the world's first truly global offshore wind energy conference and exhibition. For more information or to register click here.  

Introduction to Wind Resource Risk in London: On the 25th of June a conference will be held Green Power Academy in London, UK. This one day conference will address the introduction to the economics, practical challenges and technological solutions to quantifying and mitigating wind resource risk. For more information click here.  

Siemens is Grooming Sustainability Leaders Through Students for Sustainability

Siemens is the world's largest provider of environmental technologies and they are helping to develop a new generation of sustainability leaders. Siemens brought six international student teams to Rio de Janeiro in order to present their sustainability-ideas to a panel of renowned experts. The winning teams will get assistance from Siemens in implementing their projects in their home country. The "Students for Sustainability" event is a joint effort by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), Rio-based COPPE/UFRJ University and Siemens AG.

Green Growth and Developing Countries OECD Consultation

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) launched a consultation titled 'Green Growth and Developing Countries', was launched on June 17 at the Fair Ideas Forum, a Rio+20 side event, organized by the International Institute for Environment and Development. It involved high level discussions on a green economy draft document. Although the concept of a green economy has been heavily criticized by some developing countries, the goal is to reconcile the environment with economic growth and poverty reduction.

40 Eco-Apps that Put Technology to Work for the Environment

Technology may not be a panacea to solve the climate crisis, but green applications (eco-apps) are helping to drive awareness and foster responsible action. There was a time when eco-apps did little more than provide lists of so-called “green” products and services. Now green-themed apps have turned mobile devices into portals for environmental education and sustainable action. The smartphone market share is now estimated to be more than 40 percent in the U.S. Around the world, smartphones are proliferating and green apps are growing along with them. Eco-apps can help people be more efficient and reduce their energy consumption.

Mandatory Emissions Reporting on the UK Stock Exchange

Starting in 2013, UK companies will have to report their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. At the Rio+20 conference in Rio, UK Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg announced that starting next April, companies that are listed on the London Stock Exchange will be required to publish their GHG emissions in corporate earnings reports. The rule affects about 1.800 businesses and in 2015, it will apply to all 24.000 large corporations based in the UK. Companies will be required to publish annual GHG emissions, measured in tons of carbon dioxide equivalent.

Rio+20 Sustainable Transport Agreement

One of the many announcements related to stimulating green development at Rio+20 involves a sustainable transport scheme. The Rio+20 meeting saw well over one hundred points of agreement from financial institutions and business groups. The sustainable transport agreement that occurred on the fringes of the conference involves $175bn fund. The group of international finance institutions involves eight international development banks led by the Asian Development Bank. The fund will go towards boosting sustainable transportation over the next decade.