S & L – Issue 25
Salt and Light
Issue Twenty Five (May 2012)
Five Leaf Church Greening Initiative Newsletter
“We believe that Creation Care is a core Christian responsibility”
The aim of this newsletter is to provide a supportive and informative link between individuals and groups that share a care and Christian responsibility for our environment. You are on this newsletter list because you have expressed an interest in the Five Leaf Eco-Awards program or have communicated with the National Coordinator – Jessica Morthorpe.
Contents
l Letter from the Editor
l Church Greening News
l Grants and Opportunities
l Feature Article
l Monthly Action Tip
l Resources
l Eco-Tips for Newsletters
l Eco-Recipe
l Inspiring Quotes
l Church Conservation Action Survey
l Events
Letter from the Editor:
Hi everyone,
Sorry it’s been a while – you will get an idea of why when you have a look at our news section J.
There is a lot going on at the moment. Don’t forget that June 5th is World Environment Day, making this Sunday, June 3rd the time when many churches will be celebrating this important day together. If you haven’t already planned your service using the Uniting Justice World Environment Day Resources (http://www.unitingjustice.org.au/environment/information-and-action-resources/item/846-world-environment-day-2012-resources) then try to sneak in an eco-prayer or some mention of the event. I’ll be celebrating by giving a talk on the Five Leaf Eco-Awards at the Wembley Downs Uniting Church First Sunday Forum.
There are lots of great things for you in this issue, including heaps of exciting church greening news, some grant info for those setting up community gardens, some eco-tips for those who have been asking me for something to put in their pew sheets each week, a link to a really yummy vegan cupcake recipe, and a host of events from around the country.
I want to draw particular attention to the God’s Earth, Our Care event on the 2nd of June (this Sat) in Melbourne. The wonderful Ms. Leeanne Keam, Peace Project Co-ordinator at Warrandyte Uniting Church will be there running a workshop on the Five Leaf Eco-Awards and the whole event will be well worth attending.
For those in Perth, if you haven’t already attended one of the EmpowerWA – Christian Perspective training workshops then please register for the one on Saturday the 16th of June.
Also, the Green Steps program is advertising for participants again. I completed this program in 2006/2007 and it led to many important and exciting opportunities opening up for me so I very highly recommend it.
Please also spread the word about our new website www.fiveleafecoawards.org and our PRAY campaign (see below for details). Thanks!
Yours Sincerely,
Jessica
—
Jessica Morthorpe
Founder and Director
Five Leaf Eco-Awards
Church Greening News
FIVE LEAF ECO-AWARDS NEWS
Perth Five Leaf Eco-Awards Presentation Ceremony
Jessica Morthorpe (centre) with representatives of each of the award winning churches
The first Five Leaf Eco-Awards Presentation Ceremony in Western Australia was held with great success on the 12th of May. Around forty guests including representatives of major political parties and the four church traditions receiving awards witnessed the presentation and enjoyed chatting with each other about all things church greening over refreshments.
The following five churches were presented with awards and special commemorative plaques to mark the event and recognise them as the first churches in Western Australia to receive the awards.
St Denis Catholic Parish in Joondanna
Congratulations to St Denis Catholic Parish Joondanna who were presented with the Five Leaf Eco-Awards Basic Certificate.
This award was presented with the assistance of Fr Peter Porteous OSM, the Parish Priest of St Denis, Chair of the Catholic Archdiocese Ecumenical Affairs Committee and Catholic Archbishop Timothy Costelloe’s chosen representative at the event for his leadership of the Greening commitment. It was accepted on behalf of the church by Mrs Maureen and Mr Roy Lundy, who are members of the St Denis Greening Committee.
St Denis’ achievements include completion of a Catholic Earthcare energy audit, installing solar panels on both the parish house and the church, establishing a greening committee, recycling Jarrah wood from the church into a range of furniture, holding an Eco-Spirituality presentation with teachings, prayers and displays, providing displays for the congregation on installing solar panels, water tanks, efficient irrigation and recycling wood, doing tours of the site and inviting people to get involved through a community newsletter and greening their gardens with a new water tank, irrigation design and native plant design. They are also currently completing extensive renovations of the church in which the greening group is very involved.
Church of Christ Wembley Downs
Congratulations to the Church of Christ Wembley downs who were presented with the Five Leaf Eco-Awards Basic Certificate and Eco-Worship Award.
These awards were presented with the assistance of Tania Watson, Executive Minister of the Churches of Christ in Western Australia and accepted on behalf of the church by the Rev. Dennis Ryle.
Church of Christ Wembley Downs established an Environment Policy in November 2008 outlining a range of actions they wanted to take to become more environmentally friendly. The policy was launched with a celebration, and range of posters and consensus from the congregation. Actions taken since include establishing an Environment Committee, changing to energy efficient lighting, installing solar panels, printing their newsletter in duplex, promoting environmental events, recycling batteries, light globes and toner/ink cartridges, PeaceChurch meetings focused on environmental issues, regular environment themed services and participation in Sustainable September.
Victoria Park and Districts (Star Street) Uniting Church
Congratulations to Star Street Uniting Church who were presented with the Five Leaf Eco-Awards Basic Certificate and Eco-Worship Award.
These awards were presented with the assistance of Rosemary Hudson-Miller, Associate General Secretary (Justice and Mission) of the Uniting Church in Australia, WA and representative of the Moderator of the Uniting Church in Western Australia. Alison Atkinson-Phillips accepted the award on behalf of the church.
Star Street Uniting Church was recognised for its work doing an energy audit, running a Green Christmas project, getting their congregation to create a ‘green tree’ by writing an ecologically responsible action commitment on a paper leaf, collecting glasses, batteries and egg cartons, holding a solar panel breakfast and screening of the film Age of Stupid and helping people to be more sustainable through their weekly op-shop connected to the Carlisle Food centre. They have also run multiple environment themed worship services as part of participation in Sustainable September.
Ross Memorial Uniting Church
Congratulations to Ross Memorial Uniting church who were presented with the Five Leaf Eco-Awards Basic Certificate and Advanced Eco-Outreach Leaf Award.
These awards were also presented with the assistance of Rosemary Hudson-Miller, Associate General Secretary (Justice and Mission) of the Uniting Church in Australia, WA and representative of the Moderator of the Uniting Church in Western Australia and accepted on behalf of the church by Maureen Black.
Ross Memorial Uniting Church’s environmental work has included switching to energy efficient lighting, recycled paper products, installing a dual flush toilet, recycling batteries, using environmentally friendly cleaning products, holding an environment themed Blessing of the Animals service, providing information sheets and flyers to their congregation, inviting Perth City Farm to teach their congregation how to build a worm farm and grow cuttings organically and running a series of events each year to coincide with Sustainable September. At their opening concert last year you had to bring a piece of e-waste to gain entry.
This small church has also had an extensive and impressive focus on environmental outreach. Forums held last year included talks on sustainable transport, the Green Street in Fremantle, and Men of the Trees. In September last year, along with the other Uniting Church in the City congregations, Ross Memorial was involved in a “Stop the watts” campaign and challenged the synods to reduce their energy use. As a result of this, the UCIC office reduced its energy use by 30%. The church also often uses its forecourt for a range of events, including stalls by the World Wildlife Fund and the City of Perth’s Living Smart Program.
St Luke’s Anglican Parish Mosman Park
Congratulations to St Luke’s Anglican Parish who were presented with the Five Leaf Eco-Awards Basic Certificate and Eco-Worship award. Our wonderful hosts were presented with their awards with the assistance of His Worship Mr. Ron Norris, Mayor of the Town of Mosman Park. The Rev Angela Webb and Rev Pamela Turner accepted the award on behalf of the church.
At St Luke’s both Rev Angela and Rev Pamela have electric bikes and spoken at synod about the importance of sustainable transport. Each year they hold their award winning community Eco-Fair and I hope that many of you were here last Saturday to see this year’s. Last year they also held an Earth Mass to follow the Eco-Fair. They complete Sustainable September each year, have energy efficient lights, an op shop, water tanks, make a range of resources from the Mosman Park Town Council available to their congregation, host the swap-a-lot free of charge and have a beautiful community garden I hope you have all had the chance to explore.
Announcing the launch of our new website and logo
Another exciting event on the 12th of May was the launch of our new Five Leaf Eco-Awards website and logo. Volunteer Hannah Robinson has kindly put in the work to make both possible and we are very excited to be able to send people to the new website address when they want to know more about the program. Please spread the word.
The new website can be found at www.fiveleafecoawards.org
Here is the new logo:
PRAY Campaign off to a start in Perth
A new Five Leaf Eco-Awards program aimed at encouraging Christians to get involved in action for endangered species in Western Australia has also started in Perth.
The PRAY Campaign, encouraging people to Plant, Respond, Advocate and Yell for Black Cockatoos, Numbats and Bilbies is open to any Christian individual in WA who wants to make a difference for these species. Action will be rewarded with the presentation of one of these great new badges (see left) and churches can also be recognised for having multiple members of their congregation participate.
Please encourage your friends and family in Western Australia to visit https://fiveleafecoawards.org/churches-for-conservation/pray/ for more information and start PRAYing!
NEWS FROM OUR CHURCH GREENING NETWORK
Wayside chapel’s new rooftop garden
There’s a writeup on the new roof top public garden at the Wayside Chapel on page one of the South Sydney Herald. The Wayside Chapel provides love, care and support for people on and around the streets of Sydney’s Kings Cross, and is about to celebrate the official opening of its new building. Download the paper here. (it’s 4mb, sorry you have to download the whole paper to read the first page)
QUEENSLAND CHURCHES ENVIRONMENTAL NETWORK
A NEW ECUMENICAL GROUP
Qld Churches Together has established a new Task Group to be known as the Qld Churches Environmental Network. In the course of time this may well become a Commission of the Council; but in any event, this is potentially a very significant development in terms of our ecumenical cooperation in eco-mission. It is also being proposed as a model for the rest of Australia.
The membership of the Task Group will initially be drawn from the member Churches of QCT, hopefully with a good gender and age mix. While member-ship has not yet been finalised, it is anticipated that there will be approximately 12 people drawn from the Anglican, Catholic, Lutheran, and Uniting Churches, the Salvation Army, the Society of Friends and possibly several others as well. This would make the group one of the most representative of its type in the country.
The Rev Dr Clive Ayre has accepted the Executive’s invitation to be the initial Chair of the Task Group. Hopefully it will become operational by about June.
The frequency of meetings will be determined by the group, but initially it will probably be on a monthly basis; an occasional public meeting may also be a possibility. The Task Group will report regularly to the Council and Executive as may be required.
The infrastructure required will be minimal, and effective functioning should not require funding, which is just as well, since funds are not available! Any projects that may be proposed will be assessed on their merits at the time.
Terms of Reference are as follows:
To be a resource and advisory group for the QCT in matters relating to environmental care.
To provide a forum for dialogue and the sharing of information and resources for the care of creation.
To promote eco-mission as an integral part of the church’s mission.
To encourage and enable ecumenical action for Earthcare.
To promote appropriate study material and educational models.
To have an advocacy role in encouraging church bodies and congregations to participate in a public stand against practices that pollute, degrade or destroy God’s creation.
To explore interfaith possibilities in Earthcare.
To relate to the NCCA Eco-Mission Project Group.
Watch for further details in due course.
As outlined in Uniting Green News 9 May 2012 by Clive Ayre
COMING UP
Youth Climate Embassy
In a matter of weeks from now, the Australian Religious Response to Climate Change’s Youth Embassy will open in Canberra for four days, witnessing to the need for intergenerational justice at a time when the nation will be debating the costs of action on climate change. The Clean Energy Future (carbon tax) legislation constitutes our nation’s first tentative steps to placing our economy on a more sustainable footing. The least persuasive argument against the legislation for people from religious backgrounds should be the argument that it will come with a monetary cost.
In all of our traditions there are themes of respect for life, acting justly towards those who are powerless, caring for the Earth, caring about people and relationships rather than worldly comfort and advancement. Future generations are powerless in relation to this generation’s decisions to respect the Earth’s delicately balanced ecological systems or to disrespect them. They will be among those who will disproportionately pay the price for the today’s high consumption lifestyles.
The closest to those generations now are the world’s children and young people. We are inviting them to let their concerns be known about climate change and their visions for a safe climate future on www.youthembassy.org.au. If you have grandchildren or children who might like to make a contribution, it would be most welcome. Our intention is to amplify the impact of their messages by publicizing them in the media and presenting them to Members of Parliament.
Announcing Ride to Worship Week 2012
The Australian Religious Response to Climate Change’s third annual Ride to Worship Week, will run from 5-11 October 2012. This is a chance to join with people of all faiths from around Australia by leaving your car at home and cycling, walking, or using other forms of environmentally friendly transport to get to and from your religious activities. We encourage you to join in as an individual, family or faith community – and if the date doesn’t work for your community, then feel free to choose another time. Are you interested in helping us to spread the word about Ride to Worship Week and getting more people involved? Find our more!
Grants and Opportunities
Grab a garden grant
The last round of applications for 2012 is now open for the Coles Junior Landcare Garden Grants program, and all schools, preschools, kindergartens and community groups involving young people are encouraged to apply.
The Coles Junior Landcare program offers grants of up to $1,000 to help set up gardens in communities and school grounds, giving kids a fun and interactive opportunity to learn about nature and environmental sustainability. Previous successful grant recipients have used the funding for a variety of garden projects including vegetables, herbs, bush tucker, water wise and multicultural gardens along with worm farm, composting and recycling projects.
Katrina Sparke of Avoca Public School, a recent grant recipient, says that receiving a Coles Junior Landcare Garden Grant has had many roll-on effects beyond the garden project itself.
“This grant has really kick-started a positive vibe for our school, and the Parents & Citizens Committee worked hard to also afford a new kitchen to accompany it. We have seen a huge rise in student morale, school pride, and enthusiasm for the new project—resulting in a few extra families joining our school and allowing us a second full time teacher,” she commented.
Majella Allen, Coles Community and Sustainability Manager, hopes eligible schools and community groups will take advantage of the grants program which offers kids a hands-on learning experience.
“The Coles Junior Landcare Garden Grant program is an excellent opportunity for schools and community groups to teach kids about gardening and environmental sustainability in a practical way that will also leave a lasting impression,” she said.
Applications for the Coles Junior Landcare Garden Grants close on Friday 27th July, and application forms, guidelines and criteria can be found here.
Green Steps Sustainability Training and Internship Program
The GreenSteps Environmental Management Training program is a nationally recognised environmental management training program that gives students the skills to act as environmental change agents in the workplace. This innovative green office training course covers environmental auditing, project planning, strategic communication and change management.
Applications will reopen in July/August/September 2012
For more information see http://www.monash.edu.au/research/sustainability-institute/green-steps/
Feature Article
How Future Environmental Problems Are Harming Us Now
By AWAKE
Most of us are aware of the dire consequences of climate change and environmental degradation predicted by scientists. If the worst predictions come true, many people’s mental and physical health will be compromised to say the least. Less attention is paid, however, to what we might currently be experiencing in anticipation of the challenges which lie ahead.
A big issue is the sense of doom and dread which many are experiencing. Many researchers have observed feelings of fear and despair at the constant media reports of an uncertain future. Kari Norgaard, author of a study conducted on behalf of the World Bank, states that “trying to think about this problem could be overwhelming to people”, something she attributes largely to the sense that ordinary people feel they have no control over the massive efforts required to combat climate change. Aside from the potential impacts of climate change itself, the fact that many are questioning our very way of life, and calling for radical changes to the way our society operates, is a strong contributor to a sense of disillusionment.
Closely related to the sense of overall despair about the future are our feelings of guilt about our own behaviour. We are constantly reminded that our lifestyle, especially in the West, is using far more resources that the planet can cope with. As a result, those who accept responsibility for their part in contributing to global warming are prone to feeling guilty when undertaking actions which consume resources and emit carbon. Feelings of guilt have a demonstrated link to symptoms of depression, especially when they are accompanied by feelings of shame (the sense that others disapprove of us).
An effect of the behavioural changes required to limit the effects of global warming is their tendency to take us out of our comfort zone. Many of our behaviours, including our unsustainable ones, are habitual. We have developed these for a reason – because they are comfortable. The less we have to give careful consideration to our behaviours, the more mental resources we can preserve for other things, like new situations which pop up. Now we are being asked to think twice about how we are going to travel to the shops, look a bit harder at the product labels when we get there, and decide which of four different coloured bins we are going to deposit our waste into. A 2002 study into the emotions related to habits noted “the lesser stress, burnout, and feeling of being out of control that participants experienced when engaged in habitual than nonhabitual behaviors”. As a result, those promoting eco-friendly behaviours which require a habit change are well advised to ensure that they focus on replacing old habits with new ones as quickly as possible, to reduce the stress associated with the transition.
Furthermore, it is not just ourselves we need to worry about. Concern for green issues can place a strain on relationships, especially when not shared equally between partners. This New York Times article reveals an increase in disputes over lifestyle changes designed to lower environmental impact. Such a rift is bound to have some impact on family harmony and cohesion.
We have so far discussed the impact in present time of future climate change, mainly because most people are not directly experiencing its effects yet. There are, however, exceptions, especially for those living with drought with apparent links to climate change. An Italian study, cautiously titled “Global warming possibly linked to an enhanced risk of suicide” found a link between higher monthly temperatures and male suicides over a 30 year period. A similar finding was reported in a New South Wales study, where it is estimated that “a decrease in precipitation of about 300 mm would lead to an increase in the suicide rate of approximately 8% of the long-term mean suicide rate”.
In summary, the threat of climate change and major environmental threats appear to be having a psychological impact on us already. Here are some tips to help limit the negative effects:
- Do something – despair is often a result of a sense of powerlessness. Work out what you can do, especially locally where you can see the results of your efforts.
- Create new habits – rather than exhausting yourself by constantly questioning your efforts to live a more eco-friendly life, decide on a product, or approach, which works and stick to it. Routine and habit are less stressful.
- If you know you are sensitive and prone to despairing over the future of the planet, try to avoid constant media reports about how bad things are looking. By all means stay aware and informed, but it makes sense to protect yourself by getting the information you need about the issues, then trying to expose yourself to constructive and hopeful communications, rather than more doom and gloom.
- If you are trying to encourage others, remember that shame is an especially negative emotion, so support rather than berate. It doesn’t work anyway (see WakeUp Call May 2008 for a discussion of influencing styles).
WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEB SITE?
You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it:
Awake provides psychology-based tools and services which support organisations and communities to develop a culture of sustainability. Visit http://www.awake.com.au for more info
Monthly Action Tip
Take part in the national big solar poll
Australia is one of the sunniest countries in the world. People from the 100% renewables campaign are collecting views about solar energy. In late May a delegation of community representatives will be travelling to Canberra to take these messages to our politicians, right at the moment parliament is debating the establishment of a new $10 billion renewable energy loan fund.
Please add your voice to be one of 10,000 Australians sharing their views on big solar with our leaders.
Fill out the 5 question survey here:
http://100percent.org.au/content/take-part-national-big-solar-poll
Resources
Confessing Congregations Creation Care Resources
A great range of new resources including Bible Studies and a prayer development tool can be found here:
http://www.confessingcongregations.com/resources/creation-care-resources/
Need a source of information for talking to climate sceptics?
If you find yourself in discussions with people about climate change you might like to look at this site Skeptical Science which details the common myths about climate change and how to debunk them. http://sks.to/args
2012 Calendar Dates:
– June 5th – World Environment Day. Green Economy: Does it include you?
– August 6-10 International Conference: Christian Faith and the Earth, Capetown South Africa
– September: Season of Creation and Sustainable September. Note there are 5 Sundays this year.
– October – 17th – 23rd – National Water Week
– November 6th – National Day of Prayer for Climate Change
– November 26th – International Buy Nothing Day
Eco-Tips for Newsletters
Thanks to Carole Lovejoy at St Anselm of Canterbury Anglican Church in Kingsley WA for sharing these eco-tips you might light to use in your church newsletter or pew sheet this month:
Caring for Creation – Food tips
Drink tap water and use refillable bottles. Flavour fresh foods with minimal packaging. Avoid packaged take-away foods. Reduce meat consumption: fill the dinner plate with vegetables and add a small amount of meat or use nuts or legumes for concentrated protein. Use fresh local foods in season. Start a home garden. Support community gardens and school kitchen gardens. Children who grow vegetables are more likely to eat them.
Caring for Creation – Buy less and minimise both waste and waist
Australians throw away $5.2 billion worth of food each year – $616 per household. Food wastes release methane and each kilogram added to landfill generates the equivalent of a kilogram of CO2. We also ‘waist’ excess food. Advice: Buy less. Avoid impulse purchases and ‘two-for-one’ deals. Plan meals based on what you have on hand. Freeze leftovers. Compost food waste. Support community recycling and waste collections.
http://www.medicalobserver.com.au/news/lose-weight-and-save-the-planet–ask-me-how
Caring for Creation – Recycle to save energy
Recycling reduces landfill and saves recourses and energy.
Kerbside recycling programs mean we can now recycle billions of glass bottles, aluminium cans and plastic and paper items. Recycling an aluminium can uses only 5% of energy to make a new one, recycling glass uses 26% of the energy and every tonne of paper recycled saves 13 trees, 41kilowatts of electricity and more than 30,000 litres of water. Check with your Shire on details of what you can recycle, or Google “Recycling Near You”.
Caring for Creation – Recycle-Reuse
Australia is the second most wasteful society, per capita, in the world after the United States, sending an average of 700kg of waste per person to landfill every year. By extending the life cycle of products we can cut down on that rubbish. Try to buy items that are reusable or come in reusable packaging – and reuse them. Before throwing away check if wrapping paper can be saved, a container refilled, shoes mended or machine fixed.
Eco-Recipe
Vegan Healthy Banana, Sultana and Walnut Cupcakes
http://oliveonblonde.com/2012/05/29/healthy-banana-walnut-and-raisin-cupcakes/
Inspirational Quotes
“Sustainable development is not an option! It is the only path that allows all of humanity to share a decent life on this, one planet. Rio+20 gives our generation the opportunity to choose this path.” Sha Zukang, Secretary-General of the Rio+20 Conference
| It is from numberless diverse acts of courage and belief that human history is shaped. Each time a man stands up for an ideal, or acts to improve the lot of others, or strikes out against injustice, he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope; and crossing each other from a million different centers of energy and daring, those ripples build a current which can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and resistance. Robert F. Kennedy, Make Gentle the Life of This World, The Vision of Robert F. Kennedy |
| I avoid grandiose plans. I start with a small piece that I can do. I go to the root of the problem and then work around it. It’s building brick by brick. Muhammad Yunus, Visionaries by Utne Reader |
| All big things are made up of trifles. My entire life has been built on trifles. Mahatma Gandhi, The Essential Gandhi |
| Sometimes when I consider what tremendous consequences come from little things…I am tempted to think…there are no little things. Bruce Barton |
Extra Reading
If you are looking for some extra reading this month on environmental topics, why not try the following:
Check out this awesome blog:
Vote for your favourite article:
http://www.facebook.com/iucn.org?v=app_124209514379955&from_id=173485
Revised Basin Plan fails most river health targets
After receiving thousands of public submissions calling for a stronger Basin Plan to return the nation’s lifeblood to health, the Murray-Darling Basin Authority (MDBA) continues to fail the river with the revised plan it has released today.
“It’s in our shared interest to protect the Murray-Darling, our nation’s lifeblood, so it’s not surprising so many people have told the authority the Basin Plan needs to do more to ensure the river’s health,” ACF CEO Don Henry said.
“The revised plan released today doesn’t provide enough water to keep the river system from being poisoned by salt, to keep it flowing and alive.”
Church Conservation
Action Survey
As part of the Youth for Eco-Justice Program, I have to complete an eco-justice related project of my choice in the coming year. I will be launching a new program called ‘Churches for Conservation’, challenging and encouraging churches to take action for the conservation of endangered species. If your church has already taken action in this area can you please let me know? I am looking for some inspiring stories to encourage those considering getting involved in the new program.
Please email me – Jessica
Events
Advertise your faith and environment events with us: email fiveleafecoawards (at )gmail.com
International
June 20-2 Earth Summit 2012, Rio de Janiero, Brazil
http://www.earthsummit2012.org/
The Earth Summit 2012, or Rio+20, after the initial conference held in Rio in 1992, will focus on two specific themes: a green economy in the context of poverty eradication and an institutional framework for sustainable development.
Aug 6-10 International Conference, Capetown, South Africa:
“Christian Faith and the Earth”
http://fore.research.yale.edu/calendar/item/christian-faith-and-the-earth-respice-et-prospice/
ACT
On the 1st of June there is a public talk about Sustainable Architecture at the Legislative Assembly from 5.30 pm to 7.30 pm. Please come and hear Rachel Goldlust lead a discussion about sustainable housing ideas using the Earthships Biotecture method developed by Mike Reynolds in New Mexico. Employing a mix of adobe, car tyres and smart ideas, Earthships describe themselves as radically sustainable architecture. More information available here.
Canberra Clean Energy Connection will be out in force at Bunnings in Fyshwick on the 2nd of June, to celebrate World Environment Day. We need a couple of dedicated SEE-Changers to spend a bit of time promoting our organisation and manning an information stall – I will be out of town so unable to fly the flag myself. Please get in touch if you can spare an hour or two by calling the office on 6162 2320.
The 16th of June offers an opportunity to participate in an event at the Bangladesh High Commission that will examine pressing environmental problems affecting Bangladesh and the rest of the world. SEE-Change has been invited to present at the seminar: if you would like to speak to a panel of community leaders, civil society representatives, scientists, parliamentarians, members of diplomatic missions, academics and environmentalists then please get in touch. Public participation is welcome. For more information get in touch with Kamrulk (at) gmail.com.
ANU Winter Bird Monitoring
Volunteers are needed to carry out the 2012 ANU Winter bird survey on the Acton campus and surrounds. These surveys are an important step in monitoring and protecting native birds in the ACT region. Experience not essential, training will be provided. Details as follows:
| Bird workshop 10am – 12noon Saturday 7th July |
Location: Innovations Building 124 ANU, corner of Eggleston and Garran Road
Workshop rundown
Bird identification (using pictures and online databases)
Survey methodology
Field trialBird survey 8:30am – 11:30am Saturday 14th July
Location: Innovations Building 124 ANU, corner of Eggleston and Garran Road
*A thank you BBQ will be provided afterwards.
Both events will be supported by experienced birdwatchers from the Canberra Ornithologists Group and Birdlife Australia.
Please contact ANUgreen at tim.yiu( at ) anu.edu.au or on 02 6125 2158 for registration and inquiries.
Melbourne
God’s Earth, Our Care, Faith for a Planet in Peril
Saturday 2 June
– Guest speaker: Rev. Elenie Poulos National Director: UnitingJustice Australia
– Q&A panel “Planet in peril or flourishing world? What can the church offer?” facilitated by Rev. Alistair Macrae (President, National Assembly, Uniting Church in Australia)
– Practical workshops for churches
– Networking and sharing of inspiring stories
– Art exhibition ‘I am dark, but lovely: reading the land with the Song of Songs’ Artist Helen Martin
Centre for Theology and Ministry, 29 College Cres Parkville
9.30 – 4.30
Cost: $25 / $30
Lunch provided
Contact: Cath James to register
cath.james( at ) victas.uca.org.au
(03) 9251 5279
For a rego form and to watch this short clip:
http://greenchurch.victas.uca.org.au/
Please promote to others in your networks
New South Wales
“Perceptions on Climate Change”
A community forum in discussion with
Chief Climate Commissioner Tim Flannery and Climate Commissioner Lesley Hughes
Wednesday 6 June 2012, 7.00pm
AttheCentre for Ministry Auditorium, 16 Masons Drive, North Parramatta
- How doestheissue of climate change interact with faith?
- How shouldthechurch respond to climate change?
| Professor Tim Flannery, Australian oftheYear in 2007, is one of Australia’s leading thinkers and writers. An internationally acclaimed scientist, explorer and conservationist, he has published more than 130 peer-reviewed scientific papers. His books includethe landmark works The Future Eaters and The Weather Makers. | ||
In 2007 Tim Flannery co-founded and was appointed Chair of The Copenhagen Climate Council, a coalition of community, business, and political leaders who have come together to confront climate change.Professor Lesley Hughes isthe Head oftheDepartment of Biological Sciences at Macquarie University and an expert ontheimpacts of climate change on species and ecosystems. She istheAustralian Representative ontheUnited Nations Convention on Biological Diversity Ad Hoc Technical Expert Group on Biodiversity and Climate Change, and Co-Convenor ofthe Terrestrial Biodiversity Adaptation Research Network.
Professor Hughes was also a lead author forthe UN’s IPCC Fourth Assessment Report, and a member ofthe Expert Advisory Group on Climate Change and Biodiversity fortheAustralian Greenhouse Office andtheDepartment of Climate Change. Her research has been published extensively in peer-reviewed journals.
This Community Forum is a joint venture of The Climate Commission,
The Uniting Church Parramatta Nepean Presbytery and United Theological College
All Welcome
For more information abouttheforum contact: David Reichardt 0419 164 329
Further information about theClimate Commission is available at http://climatecommission.gov.au
| Meat-Free Cooking Workshops |
| As part of ARRCC’s campaig to encourage people of faith to consider reducing the amount of meat they consume, we are running a series of Meat-Free Cooking Workshops. |
The workshops will be participatory and hands-on, with participants being able to get in there and make many of the meals, under the guidance of our expert, volunteer chefs. At the end of the workshop, everyone gets to sit down together to share the meal and enjoy the fruits of their labours.
George Vlamakis, one of our volunteer chefs, says that one of the barriers to people eating less meat is that they don’t know how to cook good vegetarian food. “Vegetarian food is not about taking the meat out and leaving everything else the same. When I was a student, I was lucky enough to live with a couple of vegetarians who were really great cooks. I learned a lot from them, and I am keen to share what I know with others.”
ARRCC has organised the following workshops:
- Monday 18th June, 6pm – 8.30pm at Paramatta Mission
- Saturday 23rd June, 9.30am-1.30pm at Juanita Nielsen Community Centre, Woolloomooloo
ARRCC is looking to hold workshops all around Australia. To be kept updated on future workshops, or to help organise one in your local community, contact us!
Past workshops
Our first workshop was held in Sydney on the 29th May, with more than 10 people coming together to make 10 different meat-free meals! Read more about it.
Download recipes
Recipes from our first cooking workshop were created/collected by Devin and George, and were given to each participant in a handy booklet to take home with them. You can download a copy of the recipe bookfollowed in the workshop and try them out yourself!
Western Australia
EMPOWER WA
EmpowerWA is a new opportunity for churches to engage in creative and informed responses to climate change. An extra training event will be held on Saturday 16 June at Earthwise Community Centre, from 1.00–4.00pm. This train the trainer program, facilitated by the Social Justice Unit, has emerged in collaboration with a number of community groups and includes both practical strategies and theological reflection. To register or for more info contact Geoffrey on 9260 9800 or email geoffrey.bice( at ) wa.uca.org.au.
EMPOWER WA-WIN AN IPAD
Are you one of the thousands of West Australians already doing your bit to build a cleaner tomorrow?
We are looking for the best stories from all over the state to show that the WA community is taking action on climate change.
To help we’re going to give the best video entry to this competition a brand new iPad as a reward for their good work.
Pull out your video camera, webcam or mobile phone and make a video showing what you’ve been doing.
You can check out what other people have already submitted at www.empowerwa.org.au
You can also check out our blogs section to find out what West Australians from all walks of life are doing for the environment.
What are you waiting for? Upload your video today using our simple online form and the next video you make could be with your brand new iPad.
The following with thanks to Olive on Blonde: http://oliveonblonde.com/2012/05/30/perth-green-events-june-2012/
1st June – Movie Night screening ‘Growing Change’
When – Friday, 1st June: Arrive and get seated at 7pm, movie commences at 7:30pm
Where – Naregebup Environmental Centre. 49 Safety Bay Road, (Opposite Lake Richmond), Rockingham
Bring – A plate of food to share, a snuggle rug and dress for winter.
Cost – Gold coin donation.
Go check out this inspiring documentary about Venezuela’s Food Revolution. Venezuela is conducting one of the most exciting experiments in the world: to grow a fair and sustainable food system. Throughout the documentary you will journey with the filmmaker through fishing villages, cocoa plantations and urban gardens all the while examining this growing social movement – a movement that is proving that communities can triumph over corporations.
If you would like more information about the event contact 08 9591 3077.
5th June – Eco Design and Renovation Workshop
When – Tuesday, 5thJune. 7pm – 8:30pm
Where – Flinders Park Community Hall, Hillarys (See the map here)
Cost – Free.
Josh Byrne: Picture courtesy of ABC Gardening Australia
A great event to learn about retrofitting, renovations and renewable energy. As part of the Think Green Energy Workshops series ABC TV Gardening Australia Presenter, Josh Byrne, will demonstrate how you can use passive solar design to keep your existing home, renovation or new building project comfortable all year round.
Bookings are essential. Register via email at info( at ) joondalup.wa.gov.au or call 9400 4527.
8th June – Photographic Exhibition and Fundraiser for the animals of Bali: ‘Look Twice’
When – Friday, 8th June. 6:30pm – 9:30pm
Where – Tompkins Park Function Centre. Cnr of Dunkley Avenue and Canning Highway, Alfred Cove. (See the map here)
Cost – Free entry. Pay as you go bar facilities.
An excerpt from the event Facebook page says “The ‘Look Twice’ exhibition showcases the animals of Bali as never seen before. These uplifting and poignantly beautiful images reveal their strength and spirit, and are a testament to the valuable work undertaken to save their lives. You will fall in love with every one”.
Last year I blogged about my visit to BAWA (Bali Animal Welfare Association); the animals, people and philosophy of this tireless organisation stole my heart. 100% of the profits goes to BAWA which is funded entirely by individual donations, fundraisers and volunteers. The artworks are for sale and there will also a fabulous silent auction donated by generous local businesses.
The animals of Bali are extremely vulnerable and their suffering can be huge. If you want to learn more, I wrote about what the dogs alone are up against in their daily fight for survival. It was devastating to see but SO inspiring to see what the people over there are doing to support the animals! If you choose one event to support this month, please let it be this one.
(Here is the link to the BAW Facebook page. They give frequent updates on the characters that are rescued and inspiring acts of kindness from people touched by the animals plight. Everyone loves a happy story).
15th June – Movie Night Screening of ‘Bag It’
When – Friday, 15th June. 6:30pm (if you want dinner) – 9pm
Where – Replants. 96 Wray Avenue (Near cnr of Wray Ave and Hampton Road – the west side)
Bring – Food, drink, chairs, blankets, pillows – anything that will take you to comfy town!
Cost – $5 for entry. $10 vego meal available.
This is a documentary about an ordinary guy who looked around one day and realised – ‘Wow. I have a lot of plastic in my life’. So he set himself a simple goal – to stop using plastic bags at the grocery store. This simple goal turned into an inspiring documentary that proves that you don’t need to be a scientist, politician or lawyer to use a little bit of knowledge to make a whole lot of difference. Take a look around. Is your life too plastic? Do you want to make a change? Get inspired!
16th June – Plastic Free July Workshop
When – Saturday, 16th June. 1pm – 3:30pm
Where – Perth City Farm. 1 City Farm Place, Perth
Cost – Free – as long as you are registered for Plastic Free July (click here if you aren’t)
It is about time that you start getting yourself excited and prepared for Plastic Free July. A group of Perth’s Metropolitan Regional Councils (Eastern, Western and Central) have banded together with the Earth Carers to host this informative session to get you ready for you month free of polymer! There will be plastic free demonstrations, hands on activities and tips and tricks from those in the know. It is being held at Perth City Farm to which is an experience to visit in itself!
The event is open to anyone registered for Plastic Free July (and you are welcome to bring a friend) but RSVP’s are essential. Either call Amy or Rebecca on 9384 4003 or email Earth Carers – earthcarers( at ) wmrc.wa.gov.au
There is also a Facebook page for the event (here) and Plastic Free July (here)!
17th June – Children’s Forest Planting Day
When – Sunday, 16th June. 10am – 1pm
Where – Whiteman Park. Park Entrance off Lord Street, Perth (map here)
Cost – Free.
What a great way to get your kids interested in conservation and nature. Men of the Trees are hosting the annual Children’s Forest Planting Day where you can bring your family to this absolutely gorgeous community forest for a bite to eat, free entertainment and to help by planting native seedlings in the twelfth stage of the forest! If anything is going to get kids passionate about the environment it’s mud and this is a great interactive way where they can get their hands dirty and have some fun.
For more information either call 9250 1888 or see this link.
21st June – Movie Night Screening of ‘Bag It’
When – Thursday, 21st June. 6:45pm – 8:15pm
Where – Presbyterian Ladies College. 14 McNeil Street, Peppermint Grove
This is a documentary about an ordinary guy who looked around one day and realised – ‘Wow. I have a lot of plastic in my life’. So he set himself a simple goal – to stop using plastic bags at the grocery store. This simple goal turned into an inspiring documentary that proves that you don’t need to be a scientist, politician or lawyer to use a little bit of knowledge to make a whole lot of difference. Take a look around. Is your life too plastic? Do you want to make a change? Get inspired!
30th June – Wholefood Cooking with Jude Blereau (Plastic Free July)
When – Saturday, 30th June. 1pm – 3pm
Where – The Grove Community Centre. 1 Leake St Peppermint Grove
Cost – Free – as long as you are registered for Plastic Free July (if not click here)
This is your last chance to get informed before your month of being Plastic Free starts! But if you are feeling a little worried then come and meet renowned Perth Wholefood Chef Jude Blereau (see her inspiring blog here) who will teach you how to shop, prepare and cook food with NO disposable plastic packaging. Learn and be surprised.
RSVP’s are essential – email on rsvp( at ) wrmc.wa.gov.au or call on 9384 4003
There is also a Facebook page for the event here.
And more events:
THE URBAN BUSHLAND COUNCIL WA HAS A SPECIAL TALK COMING UP
Tuesday 5 June 2012; 6pm for 6.30pm
Dr Matthew Williams
Senior Research Scientist
Science Division
Department of Environment and Conservation
‘The Graceful Sun-moth, Synemon gratiosa’
This talk summarizes the results of several years’ study of the graceful sun-moth (GSM). A listed endangered species, the GSM occurs in coastal heathland between Binningup and Kalbarri, and also in Banksia woodlands in the Perth metropolitan area. Much of its remaining habitat is under threat from urban, industrial and other developments. The projected losses of the total population are expected to be about 40% over the next ten years.
PERTH WILDFLOWER SOCIETY–SPEAKER’S PROGRAMME FOR 2012
The Perth Branch of the Wildflower Society has finalized it’s Speaker’s Programme for 2012, as set out below.
- Jun 12 – Hazel Dempster will speak on ‘Growing WA Wildflowers in Raised Beds and Containers’ at the Perth Branch of the Wildflower Society, 8pm at the Subiaco Community Centre – email wildflowers.perth( at ) ozemail.com.au for further information.
- Jul 10 – Dr David Willyams will speak on ‘Horticulture and Ecological Restoration of Jarrah Forest Geophytes’ at the Perth Branch of the Wildflower Society, 8pm at the Subiaco Community Centre – email wildflowers.perth( at ) ozemail.com.au for further information.
- Aug 14 – Irene & Michael Morcombe will speak on ‘Birds of Australia’ at the Perth Branch of the Wildflower Society, 8pm at the Subiaco Community Centre – email wildflowers.perth( at ) ozemail.com.au for further information.
- Sep11 – David Pike will speak on ‘The Little Things That Count: Bees, Wasps, Beetles and Wildflowers’ at the Perth Branch of the Wildflower Society, 8pm at the Subiaco Community Centre – email wildflowers.perth( at ) ozemail.com.au for further information.
- Oct 9 – Dr Terry Houston will speak on ‘Native Bees and Wildflowers’ at the Perth Branch of the Wildflower Society, 8pm at the Subiaco Community Centre – email wildflowers.perth( at ) ozemail.com.au for further information.
- Nov 13 – Judith Harvey will speak on ‘Regional Variation in Salmon Gum Communities in the Great Western Woodlands- Preliminary Findings’ at the Perth Branch of the Wildflower Society, 8pm at the Subiaco Community Centre – email wildflowers.perth( at ) ozemail.com.au for further information.
BURRUP TOUR-ONE OF A KIND
What do you know about the Burrup? Probably that it’s somewhere In the Pilbara and possibly that it’s a hub of industry and home to the North West Shelf. But did you know that it’s the site of the world’s most extensive rock art collection that is estimated to be 30,000 years old, well before the last ice age?
The rock art (petroglyphs) on the Burrup Peninsula provide the world’s most significant and continuous record of human culture. It contains the oldest known record of the human face, depictions of the thylacine (Tasmanian tiger) and fat-tailed kangaroo that have been extinct on the Australian mainland for thousands of years. The area is a wonderful record of human culture adapting to changes in climate and landform. The Burrup rock art is far older than the Lascaux cave paintings in the south of France, Stonehenge in England and the Pyramids of Egypt.
This area of our ancient continent is one of the great secrets of world heritage and each year Friends of Australian Rock Art (FARA) provides the only opportunity to take a tour of the area in the company of expert guides, led by archaeologist Dr Ken Mulvaney.
“This will be FARA’s sixth Tour to the Burrup Peninsula, or Murujuga, as it’s known by its Aboriginal custodians,” said Tour Coordinator, June Moorhouse. “Each year people marvel at what they see and learn about this extraordinary site.”
The industrial development on the Burrup Peninsula limits the opportunities for tourism in the area so interested people can find it difficult to access the site or gain a real appreciation of the diversity of rock art that is in evidence.
Visits to Roebourne’s Aboriginal Art Centres are another highlight of the Tour, with many of the artists joining the Tour group for lunch at historical Cossack, a short drive away.
This year the Tour runs from August 11-19 and there are about 20 seats available on the air-conditioned coach. The cost for coach travellers is $1950 and includes travel, accommodation, meals, expert guiding and information. Another 12 places are currently available for independent travellers who can join the Tour from Karratha. The cost for independent travellers is $250 per person for the guided tours only. All other costs are to be met by the participant.
For details, contact June Moorhouse on 0418 920 435, or visit the FARA website at www.rockart.net.au
For information and interviews:
June Moorhouse
Tour Coordinator
0418 920 435
Please feel free to pass this newsletter on to any individual or group who may be interested.
Five Leaf Eco-Awards 