18 December 2008

SEASONS GREETINGS: Best wishes for a safe and happy festive season and a great year ahead in 2009

Urban NRM News will be taking a festive season break and will be back in your inbox/reader in January. Thank-you for your support and best wishes to you and yours for the festive season and the new year.

Bruce Boyes
www.retaggr.com/Card/BruceBoyes

15 December 2008

CLIMATE: Release of White Paper, 'Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme: Australia's Low Pollution Future'

The Australian Government has released the White Paper Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme: Australia's Low Pollution Future. The paper outlines the final design of the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme and the medium-term, target range for reducing carbon pollution. This paper follows from the Green Paper, released in July 2008, which canvassed options on the design on the scheme. It takes into account the outcomes of a broad consultation and input from more than one thousand submissions.

CLIMATE: Earth Hour 2009 launched

Join in Earth Hour at 8:30pm Saturday March 28 2009!

In 2007, 2.2 million people took part in the world's first Earth Hour in Sydney Australia. Just one year later, 50 million people in 370 cities and towns, in more than 35 countries worldwide switched off their lights for Earth Hour.

Earth Hour 2009 aims to reach more than one billion people in 1000 cities around the world, inviting communities, business and governments to switch off lights for one hour at 8:30pm on Saturday March 28 and sending a powerful global message that we care enough about climate change to take action.

CLIMATE: Brown Power Heritage website

Brown Power Heritage takes a humorous look at the future of coal-fired power.

CLIMATE: Don't waste your computer's idle time today - use it to help the Clean Energy Project at Harvard University

By signing up to the Harvard University Clean Energy Project, you can contribute your computer's idle time to assist vital renewable energy research.

The Clean Energy Project uses computational chemistry and the willingness of people to help look for the best molecules possible for organic photovoltaics to provide inexpensive solar cells, polymers for the membranes used in fuel cells for electricity generation, and how best to assemble the molecules to make those devices. By helping Harvard University search combinatorially among thousands of potential systems, you can contribute to this effort.

When idle, your computer will request data on the project from the project's server. It will then perform computations on this data, send the results back to the server, and ask the server for a new piece of work. Each computation that your computer performs provides scientists with critical information that accelerates the pace of research!

The Clean Energy Project is one of the projects you can assist with on the World Community Grid.

WATER: Creating Water Sensitive Cities in Australia Workshop Series, February 2009

The National Urban Water Governance Program at Monash University, in collaboration with the International WaterCentre is hosting a series of 2-day workshops in Feb 2009 focused on Creating Water Sensitive Cities in Australia. Participants will hear from leading water, climate and social scientists, urban designers and industry practitioners about the water related challenges and opportunities currently facing our cities. They will also have the opportunity to share their views and collaborate with other professionals in creating the vision and strategy for water sensitive futures in Australia. Outcomes from the workshops will be presented to the National Water Commission and other government officials in the form of detailed recommendations for local and national urban water policy development and implementation. For more information and to register, go to www.urbanwatergovernance.com

WATER: New Sydney WaterRight Gardens web tool

The WaterRight Gardens web tool, funded by the National Water Commission through the Raising National Water Standards Program, will help households apply just the right amount of water for their individual garden needs and local conditions.

This online resource can tell Sydney residents how often and how much to water, as well as when to stop watering because of rainfall or seasonal weather changes. It includes postcode-specific advice and popular plants species, and can determine the specific watering needs for different parts of their garden, depending on its plants and soil, wind and shade conditions. It shows residents how to maintain a healthy garden whilst avoiding wasteful and unnecessary watering.

The website can also be used to help design water efficient gardens, thanks to an informative series of fact sheets and guidelines. Links to the Sydney Water Plant Selector Tool will allow people to make plant choices best suited to local Sydney conditions.

Read the media release or access the web tool.

09 December 2008

CLIMATE: The world is watching

The United Nations Climate Change Conference is taking place in PoznaƄ, Poland right now. Poznan can't be "just another meeting." Let climate decision makers know that the world is watching what happens. Join people from around the world and submit photos featuring your eyes. Poznan must result in a commitment to a fair and ambitious climate deal at next year's UN climate talks in Copenhagen.

FUNDING, CLIMATE: Google.org Geo Challenge Grants

Google.org believes maps are a powerful tool for non-profits of all kinds to communicate issues, understand needs, and create more effective implementation plans. Many of you have come to Google.org with compelling ways that maps can help you and your organisation increase impact, and Google.org wants to help you make your mapping ideas a reality. They're offering a pilot program of Geo Challenge Grants to organisations working in areas related to their core initiatives, which are: Develop Renewable Energy Cheaper Than Coal, RechargeIT, Predict and Prevent, Inform and Empower to Improve Public Services, and Fuel the Growth of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises.

Geo Challenge Grants proposals must be submitted by 22 December 2008. However, Google.org intends to have future submission rounds in the coming year, so if you miss this deadline, stay tuned for details of the next round.

Google.org aspires to use the power of information and technology to address the global challenges of our age: climate change, poverty and emerging disease.

08 December 2008

BIODIVERSITY: ANPC 2nd National Forum, 'Minding our own biodiversity: conservation on private land'

Thursday 30 April – Friday 1 May 2009
Halls Gap, The Grampians, Victoria

Are you interested in conserving native flora and fauna on your land? Do you have a management agreement or covenant over some of your land? Do you participate in conservation activities on local public land? Are you part of a network linking conservation across the landscape? Do you receive any support or are incentives available to assist your efforts?

The Australian Network for Plant Conservation (ANPC) 2nd National Forum will focus on conservation outside the formal reserve system, whether on small blocks or large landscape level efforts or cross-tenure projects. It will highlight the people and places involved and investigate the incentives and support available. The forum will include presentations, case studies, facilitated discussion sessions and field visits to project sites.

For further information visit ANPC conferences or contact the ANPC office on 02 6250 9509.

BIODIVERSITY: Results in from Sydney NatureKeepers BioBlitz08

On Sunday 28 September 2008, 150 survey volunteers worked with 30 volunteer Team Leaders to survey five Sydney parks for their plants and wildlife over a 24 hour period. The species data collected for the City of Sydney included 398 new records (some species types were recorded at more than one location or time). The data includes 189 different species. The results have been forwarded to the City of Sydney Council to assist with future park management plans. The species results are now available here.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY: CitySwitch Green Office

With a geographical spread representing approximately 70 per cent of Australia’s office space, CitySwitch Green Office works with tenants to improve office energy efficiency, thereby reducing the CO2 emissions attributed to global warming. One of the main reasons for choosing this way to save energy is that tenants can influence up to 50 percent of total energy use in office buildings.

CitySwitch Green Office is a national tenant energy management program run in partnership between the cities of Sydney, North Sydney, Parramatta, Willoughby, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane and state government agencies, the Department of Environment & Climate Change NSW and Sustainability Victoria.

FUNDING: Caring for our Country business plan information sessions

To help you find out more about the Caring for our Country investment priorities, what this means for your organisation and how to submit an investment proposal, the Australian Government is running a series of Caring for our Country information sessions where you can get more details about the 2009-10 business plan and put your questions to the Australian Government.

FUNDING: Caring for our Country Community Coastcare 2008-09 projects announced

The Australian Government has approved a total of over $22.5 million for activities under Caring for our Country Community Coastcare 2008-09. Proposals for funding had been sought against two of the six national priority areas, and particularly for activities that would be:

  • protecting and rehabilitating Coastal environments and critical aquatic habitats; and
  • enhancing community skills, knowledge and engagement with Indigenous Australians, volunteers and coastal communities.

30 November 2008

FUNDING: Call for proposals, Caring for our Country business plan 2009-10

The Australian Government is now calling for investment proposals for projects that will achieve the targets outlined in the newly released Caring for our Country business plan 2009-10.

Details of how you can submit a proposal will be available on the Caring for our Country website soon.

WATER: Rebates and grants - National Rainwater and Greywater Initiative

As part of the $12.9 billion Water for the Future plan, the Australian Government is delivering the $250 million National Rainwater and Greywater Initiative to help people use water wisely in their everyday lives. The Government is providing:

  • Rebates of up to $500 for households to install rainwater tanks or greywater systems; and
  • Grants to surf lifesaving clubs of up to $10,000 to install water saving and water efficient devices.

WATER: For consultation - Draft water efficiency standards for clothes washers & dishwashers, water efficiency labelling of combined washer/dryers

Organisations and individuals are asked to give their views on the draft Regulation Impact Statement: Minimum water efficiency standards for clothes washers and dishwashers and water efficiency labelling of combined washer/dryers.

The national Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) Scheme currently mandates registration and water efficiency labelling of clothes washing machines, dishwashers, toilets, urinals, taps and showers, with flow controllers optional. However, with the exception of toilets, there is no minimum standard for these products, which means that inefficient, high water-using products may still be sold to the public.

The draft report assesses the regulatory impacts, including the costs and benefits of setting minimum water efficiency standards for clothes washers and dishwashers to improve the water efficiency of these products. It also assesses the case for introducing a WELS label and minimum standard for the dryer component of combination washer dryers that use water in dryer-mode and stand-alone dryers that use water. On the basis of this assessment the draft report recommends that Australian Governments agree to proceed with these proposals.

The public consultation period closes on 23 January 2009.

WATER: Call for proposals - Administering Organisation(s), Centres of Excellence in Desalination and Water Recycling

The Australian Government's 10-year $12.9 billion Water for the Future strategy to secure the long-term water supply for all Australians includes funding of $1 billion for the National Urban Water and Desalination Plan. This plan supports a new funding program and a number of specific projects. Among these projects is the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Desalination based in Perth and a Centre of Excellence in Water Recycling based in Brisbane, each funded at $20 million over five years. Proposals are invited for the Administering Organisation for either or both Centres of Excellence. The closing date for submitting proposals is 6 February 2009.

CLIMATE: Climate Witness - your stories of the impacts of climate change and the actions we can take

Are you seeing climate change? What’s changed in your area? How is it effecting you, your family or your community? What are you doing to be part of the solution? WWF Climate Witness is a global conversation about the impacts of climate change and the actions we can take today. Browse the climate stories global map or tell your story.

CLIMATE: Latest issue of CO2 News (26 November 2008)

The 26 November 2008 issue of CO2 News includes:

  • News - Westpac unveils climate change strategy; and
  • Publications - Generating your own green energy supply — is it a viable solution? How feasible is going completely off grid for your household energy consumption? Find out in New Scientist.

CLIMATE, BIODIVERSITY: New report - National Strategy and Action Plan for the Role of Australia's Botanic Gardens in Adapting to Climate Change

Australia’s eight capital city botanic gardens have released a National Strategy and Action Plan to adapt to climate change. Actions include prioritising and coordinating seed bank collection, priorities for living collections and a coordinated national education campaign for the 13.4 million visitors a year.

Read the media release or download the National Strategy and Action Plan.

HEALTH, BIODIVERSITY: New booklet - Pills, plants and animals, A guide to complementary medicines trade and conservation

Many of the world’s animals and plants are threatened because of human activity such as hunting, poaching and the uncontrolled trade in wildlife and wildlife parts. Some of the species, including the tiger and rhinoceros, are now in great danger of extinction. One factor driving the trade is the demand for animal and plant derivatives for use as health supplements in complementary medicines (also known as ‘traditional’ or ‘alternative’ medicines). These medicines include vitamin, mineral, plant or herbal, naturopathic and/or homeopathic preparations and nutritional supplements.

The reality is, if threatened species continue to be used in complementary medicines, these species may become extinct. Ending the illegal trade in protected wildlife and wildlife parts will help prevent their further decline. The good news is that the properties of these wildlife products can often be replicated by medically acceptable alternatives.

The booklet Pills, plants and animals, A guide to complementary medicines trade and conservation informs users, practitioners and importers of complementary medicines about Australia’s wildlife trade laws and alternatives to using complementary medicines containing threatened species.

FOOD: 2009 True Food Guide launched

Greenpeace has launched the 2009 True Food Guide, which provides information on shopping for GE-free food. You can download the Guide as a PDF or order a pocket-sized copy.

MARKET-BASED INSTRUMENTS: Presentations and videos from Designer Carrots National Market Based Instruments Forum now available

The National Market-Based Instruments (MBI) Forum was held in Brisbane in late September. Now available are many of the PowerPoint presentations, as well as video interviews exploring the MBI experiences of a wide range of people.

By using policy tools called market-based instruments (MBIs), governments, regional NRM groups and others natural resource managers are applying the economic principles of supply and demand to the management of the natural resources such as water, biodiversity, habitat, water quality and forests. MBIs rely on market signals to positively influence behaviour.

A ‘market’ is any place where sellers of a good or service can meet buyers of that good or service. Markets are historically associated with the buying and selling of tangible products or intangible items such as stocks and shares. However, harnessing the competitive pressure of commercial markets is increasingly being used as a policy tool to reduce the costs of securing environmental outcomes and to create greater flexibility for delivering natural resource management (NRM) outcomes.

NEWS: Receive daily updates of environmental news items appearing in the major non-subscription electronic news media (eg newspaper articles)

Making Environmental News is an email portal that delivers access to environmental news items appearing in the major non-subscription electronic news media to your email every weekday. It is a summary of what has made the news in the preceding 24 hours, linking you to the news item if more information is required. The service is free and is designed for busy people who need to know what is being reported in the news. There is no filtering or editorial, and each email update takes about three minutes to scan. Making Environmental News is an initiative of the Banksia Environmental Foundation.

23 November 2008

FUNDING: Caring for our Country Open Grants announced

The Rudd Government has announced more than $28.5 million in funding to support 137 local and community groups with environmental and sustainable farming projects under Caring for our Country Open Grants.

The package includes more than $5.5 million for sustainable farming practices; $8.9 million for Landcare projects; more than $7.3 million for biodiversity and natural icons, more than $5.7 million for coasts and critical aquatic habitats and more than $1.1 million for other projects.

Read the primary media release or view the list of funded projects.

WATER: New NWC Report - Requirements for the installation of rainwater and greywater systems in Australia

Waterlines report No 10 - November 2008 is a 'how to guide' that will help Australian households boost their re-use of stormwater and greywater. The report was developed for the Commission by the Master Plumber and Mechanical Services Association of Australia, with assistance from key stakeholders and regulatory authorities.

The publication gives householders the essential information they need when considering installing a greywater system. The report covers rebates, approval processes, planning tools and installation issues. This Waterlines report will make a significant contribution to the implementation of the National Water Initiative by assisting with the safe re-use and recycling of these alternative water sources in urban environments.

Two related specialist handbooks, which will provide plumbers and householders with expert technical advice on how to install and maintain rainwater tanks and greywater systems, have also been released.

WATER: "Anna Bligh ready to dump proposal for recycled sewage"

The Australian
20 November 2008

QUEENSLAND Premier Anna Bligh yesterday left the door open to scrapping her recycled sewage plan, as it emerged that the 2.6 million residents of the state's southeast may not be told if their drinking water has been contaminated.

The shift by Ms Bligh follows a series of reports by The Australian, which highlighted concerns by experts about whether viruses and other contaminants would be blocked by the planned seven-stage screening process.

With pressure mounting on the Government as continuing rain raised dam levels further yesterday, Ms Bligh said she would listen to advice from the Queensland Water Commission about whether the scheme should proceed as planned early next year...

Read the full article here.

COASTCARE: Countdown to Coastcare Week 1 - 7 December 2008

Coastcare Week is just around the corner and this year's theme is "Life on the Edge". See the latest Coastcare Week Newsletter and the Coastcare Australia website.

EDUCATION: Lessons from Teachers - new sustainability education resources

New sustainability education resources "Lessons from Teachers" are now available on the Teach Sustainability website.

"Lessons from Teachers" case studies document the experiences of secondary teachers who have developed units of work about sustainability. These case studies include a unit of work and a narrative, where teachers share their reflections on delivering these lessons. They discuss how sustainability issues can be integrated into their subject area, the way they approach teaching the unit and the highlights and challenges they have encountered.

Teach Sustainability is a not-for-profit educational website designed specifically for Australian teachers. The site connects educators across Australia and fosters the sharing of teaching programs, resources and experiences.

EDUCATION: Teach Sustainability Award

The Sustainable Living Challenge in partnership with the United Nations Environment Program and University of New South Wales’ is seeking nominations for the National Teach Sustainability Award. The aim of this award program is to recognise leading practice sustainability educators in schools and to encourage educators to contribute teach sustainability resource sharing hub to provide a world class resource for the United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development.

CLIMATE, PLANNING: New report - National Sea Change Taskforce Planning for Climate Change Research Report

The Planning for Climate Change research report notes that coastal areas are exposed to particular risks associated with climate change and these risks represent a range of social and economic consequences for coastal communities which are exacerbated by existing socio-economic disadvantage and an aging population profile.

The research team found that while climate change is increasingly recognised by Commonwealth and State governments in Australia as a critical issue for coastal communities, few local planning schemes include specific provisions for climate change adaptation or mitigation, apart from controls relating to sea level rise in Western Australia and South Australia. The report makes a number of recommendations to enhance practice in planning for climate change across sea change communities in coastal Australia.

BIODIVERSITY, PLANNING: "Sydney housing plan 'threatens endangered trees'"

ABC News
19 November 2008

Environmentalists say plans to house almost 500,000 people in two western Sydney growth zones will compromise the last remnants of endangered Cumberland Plain Woodlands...

Read the full article here.

BUILT ENVIRONMENT: "Green buildings 'should be fast-tracked'"

The Age
18 November 2008

Councils should fast-track "green" building applications and take a more moderate approach to the rest, a local government forum has heard.

Romily Madew, chief executive of the Green Building Council, said local government had a key role to play in encouraging more environmentally-friendly buildings...

Read the full article here.

BUILT ENVIRONMENT: "NSW developers keen to build green "

LiveNews
16 November 2008

Developers are rushing to build environmentally friendly homes, the NSW government says.

At a press conference on Sunday about the state's Building Sustainability Index (BASIX) scheme, NSW Planning Minister Kristina Keneally said developers were lining-up to meet demand for more environmentally sustainable homes.

Introduced in 2005, BASIX is a free online tool to help Australian builders ensure their homes use less water and omit fewer greenhouse gas emissions...

Read the full article here.

WASTE MGMT: "South Australian Parliament bans plastic shopping bags"

AdelaideNow.com.au
13 November 2008

CONVENTIONAL plastic shopping bags will be banned in South Australia from January 1.

Legislation to ban the free bags, the first of its kind in Australia, passed through the upper house today with the Labor party and all minor parties voting for it...

Read the full article here.

WASTE MGMT: "State plan to contain mountains of waste"

The West Australian
17 November 2008

The State Government says it will decide next year on the merits of a container deposit scheme designed to reduce waste, as new figures reveal a dramatic rise in the amount of garbage buried in Perth.

Perth buried at least 3.95 million tonnes of garbage in 2007-08, a huge increase on the 2.8 million tonne average over the past nine financial years...

Read the full article here.

17 November 2008

ENVIRONMENT, BIODIVERSITY: Independent review of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999

On 31 October 2008 the Australian Government Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts commissioned an independent review of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), the Australian Government's central piece of environmental legislation. Section 522A of the EPBC Act requires it to be reviewed every 10 years from its commencement.

This is the first review of the EPBC Act since its commencement on 16 July 2000. The review will assess the operation of the EPBC Act and the extent to which its objects have been achieved.

Community participation in the review is encouraged. There will be opportunities for public input over the course of the review. The first stage of this public input process has commenced and written submissions are now invited. The closing date for submissions is 19 December 2008. For further information visit the review website.

WASTE MGMT: Waste 2009 Conference - Call for abstracts by 28 November

The Waste 2009 Conference will be held in Coffs Harbour NSW from 31 March to 2 April 2009 and will again feature inspirational addresses from international and national leaders, as well as covering all the latest practical developments under the theme of 'innovative ideas creating practical solutions'. As well as keynotes, case studies and panel discussions, conference features include the ever-popular trade expo and social networking events on three evenings.

The latest topics will be covered including carbon and waste, climate change mitigation, e-waste and hazardous wastes, contracts and tenders, organics and food waste, uses for residuals, and waste to energy. Waste education will also be covered with a dedicated stream throughout day two exploring latest strategies, tools and techniques, and providing case studies of success.

The call for papers is now open. If you have new research, an innovative case study or a breakthrough technology, the Waste 2009 Conference is the place to share it with your peers! Short abstracts are required by 28 November. Visit the Call for abstracts page for full details.

CLIMATE: Latest issue of CO2 News (12 November 2008)

The 12 November 2008 issue of CO2 News includes articles on:

  1. Treasury modelling of costs and opportunities of reducing climate change released
  2. Comments sought for draft National Framework for Climate Change Science
  3. Research networks to investigate effects of climate change
  4. New research suggests methane levels on the rise
  5. Acting head of Queensland Office of Clean Energy appointed
  6. WA Government wants delayed start to emissions trading scheme
  7. Conferences & events
  8. Publications

CLIMATE: CSIRO paper 'A Comparison of the Limits to Growth with Thirty Years of Reality'

Based on then ground-breaking modelling, the forecasts of global ecological and economic collapse by mid-century contained in the controversial 1972 book; The Limits to Growth, are still ‘on-track’ according to new CSIRO research.

Read the media release or download the research paper.

CLIMATE: "Super storms 'will wash away coast'"

The Australian
10 November 2008

AUSTRALIA'S east coast faces unprecedented erosion within the next decade, heading into a storm period made worse by climate change, research predicts.

The seven-year study suggests sandy coasts, such as those in southeast Queensland, northern New South Wales and parts of Sydney are most at risk of major erosion as storms and high tides hit...

Read the full article here.

ENV EDUCATION, CLIMATE: Sydney event, Sustainability in the pub - Imagine a world without carbon pollution!

Please RSVP by 1 December 2008 to seeneducators@gmail.com
Click on the image below to view larger size

WATER: New NWC Report - Desalination and Australia's long-term water security

The CEO of the National Water Commission (NWC), Ken Matthews, has released a report showing that desalination technologies will play an increasingly important role in securing Australia's water supplies.

Mr Matthews said, 'The Commission believes that all water supply options should be on the table. The public needs to be clear about the potential of desalination, especially in providing more secure water supplies. At the same time, the costs and risks need also to be made clear.' The new report addresses this. For further information visit the NWC website.

WATER: "Inquiry urged to consider desal alternatives"

ABC News
11 November 2008

Opponents of the Wonthaggi desalination plant in south-east Victoria say a parliamentary inquiry examining Melbourne's water supply should recommend the project be delayed.

Watershed Victoria made submissions to the inquiry in Melbourne yesterday, along with Plug the Pipe and the Clean Ocean Foundation.

The three groups told the inquiry the desalination plant and the North South Pipeline will have major economic, environmental and social impacts...

Read the full article here.

WATER: "Nationals water science is kooky voodoo, Anna Bligh says"

The Australian
12 November 2008

QUEENSLAND Premier Anna Bligh has dismissed arguments against drinking recycled water as "kooky, wacky, voodoo science" and pledged not to disband her Government's plan to provide recycled waste water to 2.6million people in the state's southeast.

Ms Bligh attacked critics of the plan in parliament as National Health and Medical Research Council water quality advisory committee head Don Bursill cautioned that recycled water posed additional risks to supplies.

Professor Bursill said the risk would be acceptably low if Queensland followed national recycled water guidelines, as the state had indicated it would, but it was preferable to rely on conventional sources...

Read the full article here.

WATER: "States differ on recycling targets"

The Australian
13 November 2008

QUEENSLAND will easily meet the federal Government's target of having 30 per cent of its water supply recycled by 2015, but NSW has yet to take on the challenge, and the controversy, according to a commonwealth-commissioned report.

With Queensland Premier Anna Bligh facing renewed community concern over plans to add recycled sewage to drinking water in the urban southeast, the report puts the state's efforts into context, showing the varied state policy responses to the 30 per cent target...

Read the full article here.

WEED MGMT: "Invasive weed 'innocently' sold to SEQ gardeners"

Brisbane Times
12 November 2008

Queensland nurseries have been duped by a wholesaler into selling a South American weed to home gardeners.

The Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPIF) has issued a warning against the supply or sale of Mexican feather grass, with nurseries and landscapers facing fines of up to $60,000.

According to the DPIF, the plants were mislabelled by a Victorian supplier, which sold them to a Queensland production nursery, which then sold them to retail outlets across Brisbane and South-East Queensland...

Read the full article here.

FOOD SUSTAINABILITY: "Still a long way to go in travel debate"

The Sydney Morning Herald
12 November 2008

Locavores, those who aim to eat locally grown food, may be doing more harm than good to the environment, writes Simon Webster.

Despite the popularity of books such as The 100-Mile Diet and an increasing awareness among consumers of how far their food has travelled from paddock to plate, studies have found that transport makes up only a small part of food's environmental impact.

British consumers would be better off buying dairy products from New Zealand than from their own country, a report from Lincoln University, New Zealand, concluded last year.

British dairy produces 35 per cent more greenhouse gas emissions than New Zealand dairy, even including transport from New Zealand to Britain, the report found. This is because New Zealand agriculture uses fewer fertilisers and its dairy cows graze outside on grass, whereas British cows are housed in barns where they eat bought-in, concentrated feed...

Read the full article here.

AIR QUALITY, TRANSPORT: "Residents' heath fears over Eastern Distributor exhaust"

The Daily Telegraph
12 November 2008

THOUSANDS of inner city residents are at risk from Eastern Distributor exhaust fumes, claim the NSW Greens, Sydney Councillors and residents, who are demanding the RTA comply with a Sydney Council condition requiring the filtration of an exhaust stack in Surry Hills.

Council imposed filtration of the stack as a condition of consent for a mixed-use commercial and residential development the RTA received approval for in 2007...

Read the full article here.

PLANNING, TRANSPORT: "Outer-city blues makes planners holler"

The Sydney Morning Herald
14 November 2008

BUILDING McMansion-style suburbs on the outskirts of Sydney costs the economy and the environment twice as much as inner-city housing, according to research released this week.

As the State Government prepares to make it easier for developers to build homes on Sydney's fringe, work done by Curtin University and a planning and infrastructure consultancy, Parsons Brinckerhoff, found hundreds of millions of dollars could be saved if governments chose inner-city housing over suburban sprawl.

Fringe development contributed to the recent financial crash in car-dependent cities around the world, said Curtin University's Professor Peter Newman. "The old economy of car dependence is over; with rising oil prices and climate change, people cannot afford to live in outer suburbs and drive to work," he said...

Read the full article here.

11 November 2008

PLANNING: New report - Planning Report Card 2008

Australia is managing growth in urban centres reasonably well, and moves to streamline planning assessment processes and increase public participation in planning are having a positive impact, according to the latest results of a national survey of planning professionals conducted by the Planning Institute of Australia (PIA). Asking participants to rank each area from A to E, the Planning Report Card 2008 provides constructive feedback and ideas on how to create better cities, neighbourhoods and streets.

Download the Planning Report Card 2008 results brochure or view the media release.

PLANNING: "National heritage listing for Adelaide Park Lands"

Media Release
The Hon Peter Garrett AM MP, Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts
The Hon Kate Ellis MP, Member for Adelaide and Minister for Sport and Youth
7 November 2008

The influential urban design of Adelaide - Australia’s first planned city - was today granted Australia’s highest heritage honour with its inclusion on the National Heritage List. The listing recognises the 1837 Adelaide Park Lands and City Layout as a technical masterwork which went on to influence the planning of other towns in Australia and overseas...

Read the full media release here.

SOCIETY: New CDATA Online tool from Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS)

CDATA Online is a new online tool which combines information on Australian society from the 2006 Census, with web graphing and mapping capability. CDATA Online allows you to create your own tables of Census data on a range of different topics such as - age, education, housing, income, transport, religion, ethnicity, occupation and more. This free online product allows you to create tables, maps and graphs of Census characteristics for all ABS geographic areas.

The product is designed to provide clients with a high degree of freedom in selecting and combining the geographical areas most suited to their needs. You can access data for areas as small as a Collection District (approximately 225 households) or as large as an entire state or territory or all of Australia. CDATA Online allows you the freedom to select and combine areas that interest you by creating your own customised geographic areas.

CLIMATE: New report - Energy Efficiency Policy Paper, The Climate Institute

In the Energy Efficiency Policy Paper, The Climate Institute proposes an energy efficiency strategy which would create 40,000 jobs and save almost two dollars a day on household energy bills.

CLIMATE: New report - Assessment of Impacts of Climate Change on Australia's Physical Infrastructure

The Australian Academy of Technological Sciences and Engineering (ATSE) has conducted an assessment of the impacts of climate change on Australia’s physical infrastructure.

The study noted that most sectors of Australia’s physical infrastructure were reasonably well-placed to respond to climate change impacts. The most vulnerable were the energy and water sectors. The study identified that major potential impacts on physical infrastructure often arise from combinations of projected climatic events – including drought, bush fires and temperature extremes on energy generation and distribution systems; and extreme rainfall, sea level rise and storm surge on low-lying coastal development. It suggests drainage, storm water and sewerage infrastructure will need critical examination where significant rainfall intensity is projected.

Key recommendations from the study include that the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) should convene a National Climate Change Adaptation Taskforce (NCCAT) to develop National Climate Change Adaptation Guidelines; that risk assessment studies should be undertaken for existing critical infrastructure vulnerable to the effects of climate change; and that comprehensive strategic planning controls should be applied to future critical infrastructure installations vulnerable to climate change.

Download the Assessment of Impacts of Climate Change on Australia's Physical Infrastructure report or view the media release.

CLIMATE: New report - Turning it around: climate solutions for Victoria

Environment Victoria released a groundbreaking report today showing how Victoria's emissions could be more than halved by 2020. The report Turning it around: climate solutions for Victoria was commissioned by Environment Victoria and completed by The Nous Group.

CLIMATE, SUSTAINABILITY: Wollumbin Institute

Dealing with the challenge of climate change calls us to our fullest humanity. It will require all the honesty, ingenuity, intelligence, and courage we can muster. And it can't be left to the "experts" and the "leaders". This is a task for us all, acting together.

Wollumbin Institute is a non-profit organisation that brings other organisations together in partnerships, alliances and networks to create ground breaking sustainability demonstration projects. The Wollumbin Institute's role is to catalyse collaborative partnerships and demonstration projects, then harvest the learning to enhance further regional and community initiatives.

BIODIVERSITY: A new Biodiversity Strategy for New South Wales - Discussion Paper

The NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC) and the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) invite public submissions on A new Biodiversity Strategy for New South Wales - Discussion Paper. The release of this Discussion Paper is the first step towards developing a new Biodiversity Strategy for New South Wales. The closing date for submissions is 13 February 2009.

WATER: "Water from Shoalhaven to Sydney to end"

The Sydney Morning Herald
7 November 2008

THE pumping of water from the Shoalhaven River to top up dam supplies for the Sydney metropolitan area will be arrested for at least three years, and suggests that the city's water crisis has eased further.

Today the NSW Minister for Water, Phillip Costa, will announce a suspension of water transfers from the Shoalhaven to metropolitan dams.

Since 2003 more than 810 billion litres of water has been transferred from the river to drought-proof the city...

Read the full article here.

WATER: "Extent of waste for drinking revealed"

The Australian
7 November 2008

MORE than 30 million litres a day of industrial and hospital waste will be recycled as drinking water for the residents of southeast Queensland.

The extent of the quantity of so-called "trade" waste that is dumped in the region's sewerage system emerged in figures provided to The Australian yesterday by the Brisbane City Council.

Recycled water will account for between 10 per cent and 25per cent of the drinking water supply for the region from early next year...

Read the full article here.

FOOD: "Urban farming tames jungle"

The Daily Telegraph
7 November 2008

Tomohiro Kitazawa makes an unlikely farmer. He works neither under the sun nor in the fields, instead reporting for duty in the bustling heart of Tokyo.

As Japan's capital city struggles with problems from food safety to global warming to unemployment, a growing number of people in the famously crowded metropolis are becoming city farmers, planting crops atop tall buildings or deep underground...

Read the full article here.

06 November 2008

BRANDING & ACKNOWLEDGEMENT POLICIES: Can you help a catchment group with advice on a Branding and Acknowledgement Policy?

The Parramatta River Catchment Group (PRCG) is a newly formed regional group of councils, agencies and community representatives whose aim is to lead efforts in re-creating western Sydney's Parramatta River catchment as a living and functioning ecosystem. This will be achieved through ongoing regional coordination and a wide variety of regional partnership projects between PRCG members.

The Group is currently in the process of developing a logo and 'corporate identity' and will be asking all current and future project managers to incorporate these elements into any media/promotion they undertake. As Coordinator for the Group, I am therefore putting together a Branding and Acknowledgement Policy and was wondering if anyone else out there in NRM land has done something similar and would be willing to share their wisdom?

Please contact me directly at leanne.hanvey@cma.nsw.gov.au.

Kind regards

Leanne Hanvey, Coordinator (part time), Parramatta River Catchment Group
(Please note I work Thursdays & Fridays)

SUSTAINABILITY: Latest Urban Sustainability Support Alliance newsletter now available

The latest issue of USSA News, the newsletter of the Urban Sustainability Support Alliance project, is now available. Highlights of this issue include:

  • Are you planning for a sustainable future?
  • Barriers and drivers to sustainability
  • What’s the fuss about foot printing?

CLIMATE: Walk Against Warming Saturday 15 November 2008 (Canberra Saturday 6 December 2008)

Join thousands of families, workplaces and communities in a walk for renewable energy and a safe climate future for our children. With vital decisions being made this year, we will Walk Against Warming to ensure the Australian Government supports strong, urgent action and justice for developing nations affected by global warming. See the Walk Against Warming website for further information.

RECYCLING: National Recycling Week 10 - 16 November 2008

This year National Recycling Week (NRW) runs from 10 - 16 November 2008. On the National Recycling Week website you'll find fascinating factsheets on recycling a range of products (Recycling Information), fun and educational games for kids (Kids and Teachers), suggestions for greening up your work place (Business and Workplace), a step by step guide for hosting your own swap party (Get Involved) and lots more. The information and resources can be used to help Recycle Right all year round.

In November 1996, Planet Ark founded National Recycling Week as a community education and media campaign. The aim was to bring a national focus to recycling and the broader themes of minimising waste and managing material resources.

RECYCLING: "Recycling audit omits waste"

The Sydney Morning Herald
5 November 2008

HALF a million tonnes of waste packaging, including all cardboard milk cartons, have been excluded from a national audit, making Australia's recycling performance appear better than it is, new research shows.

A recycling black hole uncovered by the Total Environment Centre suggests the recycling targets of the National Packaging Covenant Council will not be met...

Read the full article here.

BUILT ENVIRONMENT: Latest issue of EnviroInfo (6 November 2008)

Articles in the 6 November issue of EnviroInfo relevant to urban and peri-urban areas include:

  • Membership of new built environment guidance and innovation body announced
  • Green Building Fund launched

WATER: "John Brumby's cup full, dams dry"

Herald Sun
31 October 2008

THE more the Brumby Government tells us Melbourne won't run out of water, the more you should panic.

Here we go again, with (No) Water Minister Tim Holding burbling that this time he's fixed the draining of our dams, now just a third full and falling...

Read the full article here.

WATER: "Queensland Premier Anna Bligh tells water plan critics she will drink recycled sewage"

The Australian
31 October 2008

QUEENSLAND Premier Anna Bligh has declared "absolutely" that she would drink recycled sewage in Queensland's tap water, after doubts were raised about the safety of the state's $2.5 billion water recycling project.

Ms Bligh's defence of the recycling project followed confirmation that the cost of water to the 2.6million residents of southeast Queensland was set to triple...

Read the full article here.

30 October 2008

AWARDS: Community Wildlife Conservation Award - $5,000

The Wildlife Preservation Society of Australia is calling for nominations for the Community Wildlife Conservation Award that will be awarded to a community conservation group that is making a major contribution to wildlife preservation in Australia. To celebrate our Centenary in 2009, the cash prize for the Community Wildlife Conservation Award has been increased to $5,000.Nominations close on 19 December.

COASTCARE: Coastcare Week 2008 (Dec 1-7)

It's hard to believe that it's nearly December, which means Coastcare Week 2008 (Dec 1-7) is just around the corner! Now in its 13th year, Coastcare Week recognises the hard work and many hours that volunteers have done to preserve and protect our fragile coastline.

This year, Coastcare Week is being used to launch 'Life on the Edge', a major fundraising and awareness campaign that will run over the entire summer.

WASTE MGMT: National Plastic Bag Campaign 'Are You Ready?' website

The South Australian government has announced it plans to ban single-use polyetheylene plastic bags from 4 May 2009. Other states in Australia are working towards a phase-out or reduction in plastic bag use.

This move to ban plastic check-out bags presents a simple question for retailers and communities. Are You Ready?

Whether you’re a retailer, a community or an individual, the Are You Ready? website will help you prepare for your own phase-out or ban. The site is designed to inspire and inform you about the actions that you can take today. It also provides practical assistance for sourcing items like paper bags and reusable bags.

FOOD SUSTAINABILITY: Sustainable Table - serving up healthy food choices

Sustainable Table celebrates local sustainable food, educates consumers on food-related issues and works to build community through food.

FOOD SUSTAINABILITY: Queensland 'Grow Local!' campaign

The new Queensland Conservation 'Grow Local' campaign is about getting people involved in growing food locally in back yards and community gardens. It’s about understanding where our food comes from and supporting local farmers. Grow Local will help to reduce food miles and cut greenhouse emissions while reconnecting people with their local landscape to ensure Queensland has healthy, active communities.

CLIMATE: Latest issue of CO2 News (29 October 2008)

The 29 October 2008 issue of CO2 news includes articles on:

  • Financial crisis should not halt efforts to tackle climate change: scientists
  • Renewable energy funding program details released
  • Call to change tax system to encourage renewable energy investment
  • Online resource maps renewable energy sources Australia-wide
  • New group to focus on climate change research
  • Coming conferences and events

CLIMATE: "Sea-level rise threat to coast"

The Sydney Morning Herald
29 October 2008

SYDNEY'S iconic beaches, coastal houses, commercial property and roads will be threatened by rising sea levels by 2050, while the city's temperature is expected to rise by at least 2 degrees, a new scientific study, launched by the Premier, Nathan Rees, reveals...

Read the full article here.

CLIMATE: "City is 'one big lab' for green ideas"

The Canberra Times
29 October 2008

Canberra has the intellectual capital on tap to become Australia's most innovative city in meeting the local and global challenges of climate change, the head of a new research institute says.

The chief executive of the Australian National University's new cross-disciplinary Climate Change Institute, Professor Will Steffen, has an inspired, exhilarating vision of the Canberra region becoming ''one big laboratory'' leading a climate change revolution.

''We can be the city that takes a bold lead in innovation. We can be a focus for experimenting with new energy sources, better infrastructure and greener public transport...

Read the full article here.

WATER: "Opposition backs stormwater capture plan"

ABC News
27 October 2008

The Victorian Opposition has endorsed a proposal to bolster Melbourne's water supply by capturing stormwater.

A parliamentary committee inquiry is considering the submission, which says the method could lessen the city's flood risk and reduce pollution of waterways from urban run-off...

Read the full article here.

WATER: "Water commission ready to tap recycled waste for residents of southeast Queensland"

The Australian
28 October 2008

A TOTAL of 2.6 million residents of southeast Queensland will become the first Australians to drink their own waste, as about 60 megalitres of recycled sewage a day will soon be pumped into their water supply.

The Queensland Water Commission said the recycling process would go through seven levels of purification, ensuring the water was safe to drink for the people of Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast and other centres in the region.

Opposition to the move has been surprisingly muted, given the furore that surrounded a 2006 referendum in Toowoomba, when 62 per cent of residents voted no to recycled water...

Read the full article here.

RIVER MGMT, TOXIC WASTE: "Heavy metals contaminate Yarra fish"

The Age
27 October 2008

Melbourne's Yarra River has unkindly been described as an "upside-down" river for its muddy, brown colour, but it seems the river is also a nasty chemical cocktail.

Fish in the Yarra have arsenic levels up to five times the safe level for human consumption and some are so badly contaminated that they could cause kidney or nerve damage in humans, according to a study by the Herald Sun newspaper...

Read the full article here.

URBANISATION: "Dire warnings for world's megacities"

The Australian
26 October 2008

PREDICTIONS that cities would die are proving to be, like reports of Mark Twain's death, grossly exaggerated.

Big cities are getting bigger. More than half of the people on the planet now live in cities, a watershed reached for the first time this year.

Some 500 million more people will be urbanised over the next five years, at the rate of 30,000 a day.

There will be 100 new million-plus cities by 2025.

These were among the facts and projections reported by a range of international experts this week at the World Metropolis congress in Sydney...

Read the full article here.

BIODIVERSITY: "Perth’s native birds face extinction as bush is ripped out for housing"

The West Australian
27 October 2008

More than 80 per cent of Perth’s most prominent native birds face extinction if land clearing continues at current rates, according to alarming new research that puts the spotlight on the State’s planning practices...

Read the full article here.

26 October 2008

WETLANDS: WetlandCare Art Competition closing soon

The WetlandCare National Art Competition 2009 is still open for submissions, with entries closing on Friday, December 5.

The competition is offering a fantastic range of prizes, including the $1250 Sydney Metropolitan CMA Open Art prize, and the NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change Open prizes. There is no entry fee.

There are categories for children and adults, as well as a primary school prize for wetland posters.

The themes of the competition are Upstream-Downstream; wetlands connect us all or Wetlands generally. The winners will be publicly announced at an exhibition of the winning works on World Wetlands Day, 2 February 2009, and the works will then be displayed in regional exhibitions and in an online exhibition on the WetlandCare Australia website.

Artists and photographers of all ages are encouraged to take advantage of this exciting opportunity to link art and environment.

Entry forms can be downloaded at www.wetlandcare.com.au or are available by contacting WetlandCare Australia on 02 6681 6169.

CLIMATE, SUSTAINABILITY: New CSIRO Report - Growing the green collar economy

This new CSIRO report investigates the skills, innovation and workforce dimensions of the transition to a more environmentally sustainable society, with a particular focus on the challenges involved in achieving deep cuts in greenhouse emissions.

CLIMATE: "World's major cities pledge action on climate change"

ABC News
24 October 2008

Leaders of 40 of the world's major cities pledged action to fight climate change, taking measures ranging from promoting solar energy to tracking genetically modified food.

Warning that crowded urban areas were especially susceptible to the planet's rising temperatures, city officials said they needed to take the lead in adapting to climate change...

Read the full article here.

BIODIVERSITY: "Collingwood Park estate threat to koalas"

The Courier Mail
21 October 2008

A KOALA habitat is set to be bulldozed to make way for a multimillion-dollar housing estate despite Government promises to protect the species.

The controversial Collingwood Park development in Ipswich has been given the green light by councillors, sparking fears it will cut a koala population in half.

The project has angered the Australian Koala Foundation, which has accused Premier Anna Bligh of misleading the public...

Read the full article here.

RIVER MGMT: "Loving the river...again"

Sydney Morning Herald
15 October 2008

Years ago it was decided to tame the Cooks River's unruly banks with concrete, but now the reverse is happening, writes Jennie Curtin.

Poor old Cooks River - such a sadly chequered history: polluted, degraded and clogged, then concreted over, fenced in and denuded of its natural vegetation.

No wonder many Sydneysiders think the concrete channel that meanders through parts of the inner west is nothing more than a stormwater drain.

But hope is in sight. Plans are afoot to return parts of the river to its former glory, or to a state as glorious as is possible after more than a century of abuse...

Read the full article here.

FOOD SUSTAINABILITY: "Future farms over our heads"

Sydney Morning Herald
12 October 2008

AUSTRALIAN cities must join a global network in which urban farmers grow produce on rooftops, a leading science commentator says.

Professor Julian Cribb, author of The Coming Famine, said the global food crisis was a forewarning of what could be expected as civilisation ran low on water, arable land and nutrients, and experienced soaring energy costs.

Professor Cribb said the urban farmers of the future - who would primarily grow vegetables - would play a much larger role in the global diet...

Read the full article here.

REGIONAL NRM: South Australia 'Caring for our Country' funding package announced

Media release
Hon Peter Garrett MP, Australian Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts
Hon Tony Burke MP, Australian Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
20 October 2008

PROJECTS TO PROTECT SOUTH AUSTRALIAN WETLANDS AND WINE DISTRICT

South Australia’s fragile wetlands and the internationally-renowned Padthaway wine growing district will be better protected under projects funded through the Caring for our Country initiative.

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and the Arts, Peter Garrett, and Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Tony Burke, said the Caring for our Country package would support eight projects around the state in 2008-09.

A total $18.9 million will be shared between the state’s eight Natural Resource Management boards...

Read the full media release here.

REGIONAL NRM: "Future of Regional NRM bodies remains uncertain"

Media Release
Senator Rachel Siewert, The Australian Greens
22 October 2008

The Australian Greens said today they remain very concerned about the future of regional Natural Resource Management (NRM) organisations and that of NRM in Australia.

"While the Government has moved to dampen down anger and frustration from regional NRM groups this year by committing to 60% of historic funding and some transmission funding for this financial year, the real impact will be felt next year when funding cuts take effect," said Senator Rachel Siewert...

Read the full media release here.

RENEWABLE ENERGY: "All new homes should have 'solar' option: LNP"

Brisbane Times
15 October 2008

All new homes in Queensland should have the option of a roof-top solar energy system covered by a gross feed-in tariff, the Liberal National Party has said.

The LNP's climate change spokesman, David Gibson, called on the State Government to adopt a gross feed-in tariff and reject its current net feed-in tariff, which pays a rebate to people with solar panels only if they produce enough energy to put electricity back into Queensland's grid.

This follows figures showing the Sunshine State has one of Australia's lowest take-up rates for solar technology...

Read the full article here.

RENEWABLE ENERGY: "$70m solar cell factory planned for Canberra"

ABC News
13 October 2008

A company is planning to build a $70 million solar cell factory in Canberra which could generate more than 100 jobs.

Spark Solar Australia hopes to build the factory next year with sites in Hume and Mitchell being considered. The company has also listed possible sites in Queanbeyan and Wollongong.

The factory will produce solar cells used in the manufacture of solar panels...

Read the full article here.

TRANSPORT: People Plan for Melbourne

The Australian Greens Victoria have just launched a new Melbourne transport website and discussion paper called The People Plan. This would cost $4 billion less than the
Eddington proposals and deliver a massive increase in public transport usage, right across Melbourne.

The website contains a map showing the train, tram and bus lines/extensions/services proposed. Rationales and costings are in the supporting document. Click here to take a look now.

TRANSPORT: "Outer suburbs 'missing out' on services"

The Age
13 October 2008

ONLY one out of every 100 residents in some of Melbourne's outer suburbs use public transport alone to get to work, a report shows.

The parliamentary report into outer suburban economic development found that in one of those areas, the south-east's Casey, almost 70% get to work by car alone...

Read the full article here.

WATER: "Premier Nathan Rees reveals Sydney water almost ran dry"

The Australian
23 October 2008

NSW Premier Nathan Rees has revealed just how close the state came to running out of water in February.
In a speech to the opening of the 9th World Congress of Metropolis in Sydney, Mr Rees said NSW had faced a dire water shortage crisis in February, the severity of which was not conveyed to the public.

Mr Rees, who was water minister until September 5, says he was gagged by then-premier Morris Iemma, but admitted for the first time today that water reserves had been in danger of drying up...

Read the full article here.

WATER: "Melbourne water stores drop to 34.2 per cent"

The Herald Sun
24 October 2008

MELBOURNE'S water storages have dropped for the second week in a row, leaving the city with only 34.2 per cent of its capacity.

The state's drought has continued to play havoc with Melbourne's storages after last week recording the first drop since July...

Read the full article here.

WATER: "Parched Toowoomba first to draw water from 'exploited' basin"

The Australian
17 October 2008

TOOWOOMBA will become the first large urban centre to draw its town water from the Great Artesian Basin, with more than 400 megalitres a month to be extracted to meet the needs of the drought-ravaged city on Queensland's Darling Downs.

A $17million project is under way to drill bores to meet Toowoomba's requirements as experts warned that water levels in the 1.7 million sqkm basin were falling sharply from overuse.

A referendum to pump recycled waste water to shrinking storages in Toowoomba, Australia's biggest inland city with a population of 120,000, was defeated in a 2006 referendum, with 62 per cent of residents voting no...

Read the full article here.

WATER: "Drinking water down the gurgler"

The Herald Sun
13 October 2008

HALF a billion litres of pure drinking water is being wasted each year in Victoria to test fire sprinkler systems in high-rise buildings and shopping centres.

The wasted water could fill 200 Olympic-sized pools when Melbourne's water storages are at their lowest level for this time of year since the Thomson Dam's completion in 1984...

Read the full article here.

16 October 2008

CLIMATE: Andrew Campbell presentation - 'Knowing & learning to deal with the climate challenge'

Andrew Campbell's presentation to the 2008 actKM Conference looks at climate change impacts and the implications for how we learn and manage knowledge at all levels and across all sectors of the economy and society. Organised by the actKM Forum, the 2008 actKM Forum Conference was held in Canberra on 14-15 October 2008 and is mainly attended by knowledge management (KM) professionals from across Australia. Andrew Campbell is Managing Director of Triple Helix Consulting and the former Executive Director of Land & Water Australia.

CLIMATE: Latest edition of 'CO2 News' (15 October 2008)

The 15 October 2008 edition of CO2 News includes:

  • COAG agrees to develop national energy efficiency strategy
  • Contract awarded for development of national emissions registry
  • Wave energy could supply 35% of Australia’s power needs: report
  • Councils develop model methods for engaging residents on climate issues
  • GreenTECH Conference 08
  • Bioenergy Australia 2008 Sustainable Bioenergy Opportunities for Australia
  • Carbon Market Expo Australasia 2008

REGIONAL NRM, KNOWLEDGE MGMT: LWA Knowledge for Regional NRM Program wins Platinum Award

Phase 2 of the Land & Water Australia Knowledge for Regional NRM Program has won a Platinum Award in the actKM Forum 2008 Knowledge Management Awards. The award was announced at 2008 actKM Forum Conference dinner on 14 October 2008 at University House, Australian National University, Canberra, and reads: "This award recognises the Knowledge for Regional NRM Program - Phase 2 as an outstanding cultural and technological knowledge management program that has made significant achievements in organisational capability, performance and sustainability through the application of knowledge-based projects or activities."

LANDCARE: Watch the National Landcare Awards LIVE!

From Potts Point to Perth and Cooktown to Castlemaine, landcarers across the nation are being invited to join in celebrations for the upcoming National Landcare Awards ceremony via the first ever live webcast of the event.

The awards will be streamed live on the Landcare Heroes website on Thursday 23 October from 7pm Eastern Daylight Saving Time. Online viewers will celebrate with over 550 guests, politicians and celebrities attending the awards at the Great Hall of Parliament House, Canberra.

The evening will showcase the nation's top landcare projects and achievements of individual Landcarers, community environment groups and government environment organisations. There are 72 nominees across 10 categories with each nominee having previously won their respective state and territory category award (the National Awards are only held every two years).

Viewers will also see long time Landcare supporter and actor, Jack Thompson, present the inaugural People's Choice award on the night. The People's Choice award will be decided by votes cast on the website, giving the Australian public the opportunity to decide on their favourite environmental achievement.

Landcare Australia is encouraging landcare groups and networks across the nation to organise small celebratory gatherings to watch the webcast. It is possible to project the webcast onto a larger screen, and not only celebrate with the winners, but also recognise each Landcare group's own achievements at a local level.

BIODIVERSITY: Birds Australia 'Engaging Ethnic Communities in Urban Bird Conservation' project

Urban development and sprawl has significantly changed city landscapes, especially over the past 50 years. These changes have favoured larger birds, including parrots, fruit-eating & meat-eating birds, exotic birds, and the larger honeyeaters, while populations of most smaller bird species are in decline.

Restoration of the balance of bird species in urban areas requires the involvement of all sectors of the community, including people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. This is most important in capital cities where a significant proportion of the community (31% Sydney & 28 % Melbourne) speak a language other than English at home. (ABS 2006 Census)

Birds Australia commenced the Engaging Ethnic Communities in Urban Bird Conservation project in July 2007, aimed at increasing the participation of people from CALD community groups in bird appreciation and conservation in urban areas. Twenty bilingual educators from seven different language groups (Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Arabic, Greek, Italian and Spanish) regularly visit community organisations to educate members of their communities on practical ways to live more sustainably.

BIODIVERSITY, SYDNEY: Green & Golden Bell Frog - Technical Workshop - Monday 17 November

The Department of Environment & Climate Change along with Sydney Olympic Park Authority invites biodiversity management professionals & field staff to come along to Sydney Olympic Park for information about:

  • The Green & Golden Bell Frog (GGBF) and its habitat preferences
  • Constructing GGBF habitat
  • Managing the GGBF
  • Current GGBF programs and resources
  • GGBF field trip
For more information email Natalie Izquierdo or phone 02 9585 6905. Bookings are essential. Please RSVP by 7 November 2008. This workshop is being run as part of the Sydney Metropolitan CMA's Threatened Species Demonstration Sites Project.

SUSTAINABILITY: Frankston wins Australian Sustainable Cities national title for 2008

Frankston was announced the national winner of the Keep Australia Beautiful, Australian Sustainable Cities Awards, held in Sydney. The Award recognises the City of Frankston for its commitment and investment in a wide range of environmental sustainability initiatives and its support of local community projects. In addition to winning the overall title, Frankston also won the national Resource Recovery Award and was highly commended in the Water Conservation and Community Partnership categories. Carrum Downs Secondary College in Frankston took home the national Young Legends Award.

SUSTAINABILITY, NSW LOCAL GOV'T: Submit a Poster and get 'Onya Soapbox'?

The Urban Sustainability Support Alliance (USSA) is co-ordinating a poster presentation session titled 'Onya Soapbox' at the upcoming NSW Integrating Sustainability in Local Government Symposium on the 24 - 25 November 2008. Posters provide a opportunity for an informal presentation featuring "give and take" with symposium participants. Presenting a poster is also a good way in which to discuss and receive feedback on a project and share the lessons learned. Successful poster contributors will be eligible for a discounted registration rate at the Symposium. Prizes will awarded to the best poster as voted for by the participants.
Key dates:

  • Expressions of Interest (250 word abstract only) are due by Monday 20 October 2008.
  • Presenters will be advised of the outcome of their Expression of Interest by Friday 24 October 2008
  • Final Posters are due by COB Friday 14 November 2008
  • Symposium Monday 24-Tuesday 25 November 2008

For further information email rebecca.jones@lgsa.org.au or visit the USSA website. For more information about the NSW Integrating Sustainability in Local Government Symposium visit the official website.

09 October 2008

CLIMATE: Urban Case Studies, Garnaut Climate Change Review

Case studies prepared by various state and territory government bodies have been contributed to the Garnaut Review online resource library. These contributions serve to highlight successful local practices and ways in which Australian communities are already positively addressing the impacts of climate change. The case studies relevant in the urban context include:

For the full listing of Garnaut Review reports and resources, click here.

ENV EDUCATION: Additional and final Write it up! workshop in Sydney 21 October

Due to unexpected demand a third and final Write it up! workshop will be held in Sydney on Tuesday 21st October. The session will be held at the Local Government and Shires Association, 28 Margaret Street Sydney (close to Wynyard Station).

The Write it up! program has been developed by the Australian Association for Environmental Education to assist educators write up case studies of their projects.

To obtain a workshop flier please email Faith Thomas at Living Schools. The Write it up! guide is available for download here.

If you had previously registered for the workshop in North Sydney, please email Faith Thomas as soon as possible if you will not be able to attend this session.

ENV EDUCATION: Reminder, RSVPs closing for Write it up! workshops North Sydney and Bega

The Write it up! program has been developed by the Australian Association for Environmental Education to assist educators write up case studies of their projects. Write it up! workshops are being held at:

  • North Sydney on Tuesday 14 October, with RSVPs due today Thursday 9 October.
  • Bega on Friday 17 October, with RSVPs due by next Monday 13 October.
To obtain workshop fliers please email Faith Thomas at Living Schools. The Write it up! guide is available for download here.

LEADERSHIP: Commonwealth Bank Green Ambassadors

The Commonwealth Bank and Conservation Volunteers Australia have come together to recognise, reward and support young Australians who are actively involved in improving their local environment. Now in its fourth year, the Commonwealth Bank Green Ambassadors program is searching for young people between 16 and 30 years of age who can demonstrate leadership in one of the following five categories:

  • At Home… living green and doing what it takes to reduce their household’s environmental impact
  • At Work… taking action, influencing and empowering others to reduce the ‘footprint’ of the workplace and its employees
  • At School, TAFE, College or University… positively influencing other students, teachers and the administration
  • On the Road… using ‘smart travel’ practices to minimise negative effects on the environment
  • In the Community… actively participating in or leading practical conservation activities in local neighbourhoods
Commonwealth Bank Green Ambassadors Category winners will receive a place on Conservation Volunteers Australia’s national award winning tour (Qantas Australia Tourism Awards 2007) run in partnership with NSW National Parks and Wildlife travelling to Montague Island off the NSW south coast. Runners Up will have the opportunity to participate as a volunteer on a five day conservation experience with Conservation Volunteers Australia.

TRANSPORT: "A small step for commuters, a giant leap for saving the planet"

Canberra Times
3 October 2008

IF ALL Sydney's car commuters stopped their vehicles two kilometres away from work today, got out and walked the rest of the way, the city would be spared 1200 tonnes of carbon emissions.

If they did the same thing every working day for a year, the reduction would be 312,000 tonnes...

Read the full article here.

URBAN PARKS: "Let slip the dogs of community park war"

The Age
5 October 2008

Recreation and environmentalism go head to head in suburbia.

A MOVIE scriptwriter might call it The Battle for Alphington Tip. Greenies would say it is Pooches v The Environment and dog groups see it as another unnecessary assault on the rights of dogs and their owners.

So far there have been two confirmed casualties: one dead kangaroo and the dog that mauled it, which was put down. Mix in a divided community, fears of dog attacks, fearsome 'roos, toxic sludge, a council master plan, the safety of native animals and an election campaign and you have the stuff of a minor epic. Homer made the Iliad from such a local row.

At the heart of the battle is Darebin Parklands, about 40 hectares of park in the inner north just eight kilometres from the CBD...

Read the full article here.

WASTE MGMT: "Council plan for $2 levy to pick up your butts"

AdelaideNow.com.au
6 October 2008

A METROPOLITAN council wants smokers to pay a $2 levy to help cover the clean-up costs of discarded butts.
The council says the State Government should impose the levy on every packet of cigarettes.

It will seek support from the state's other councils at the Local Government Association's annual general meeting on October 24. Councils spend between $1 million and $2 million each year cleaning up litter, which included cigarette butts...

Read the full article here.

SUSTAINABILITY: "Green solution just outside your door"

The Sydney Morning Herald
7 October 2008

THE English have their allotments; in Sydney we use the streets. In a variation on guerilla gardening, Sydneysiders are moving veggie plots from the backyard to the street verge, and converting formerly fallow public land into mini-market gardens.

"Environmentally, ethically and, from a community perspective, it's a great thing to do," says Eva Johnstone, a landscape architect, who with her husband, Bill, has been growing vegetables on their Marrickville street verge for the past two years...

Read the full article here.

02 October 2008

FUNDING: 'Caring for our Country' outcomes released

The document 'Caring for our Country Outcomes 2008-2013' outlines the specific outcomes that the Australian Government 'Caring for our Country' funding program will deliver in its first five years of operation, and the potential strategies for achieving these outcomes. The document places these outcomes in the context of 20 year projections of the results the Australian Government expects Caring for our Country to deliver in each of the six national priority areas, which are:

  • the National Reserve System
  • biodiversity and natural icons
  • coastal environments and critical aquatic habitats
  • sustainable farm practices
  • natural resource management in northern and remote Australia, and
  • community skills, knowledge and engagement.
In its first five years (from July 2008 to June 2013), the Australian Government will invest $2.25 billion through Caring for our Country.

Caring for our Country will be delivered in partnership with regional natural resources management groups, local, state and territory governments, Indigenous groups, industry bodies, land managers, farmers, landcare groups and communities.

BUILT ENVIRONMENT: New Report, 'The Second Plank – Building a Low Carbon Economy with Energy Efficient Buildings'

Australia's building sector could cut the projected price of carbon trading permits by 14 per cent – and generate annual savings of $38 billion by 2050 – with energy efficiency measures that complement the federal government's proposed carbon pollution reduction scheme (CPRS), says a new report commissioned by a cross section of peak building industry and environment groups.

'The Second Plank – Building a Low Carbon Economy with Energy Efficient Buildings' report was commissioned by the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council's (ASBEC) Climate Change Task Group in response to the CPRS Green Paper. The report provides an economic analysis of the greater benefits that energy efficiency measures for buildings can deliver, with a policy mix offering better incentives for the building sector to invest more resources to increase energy efficiency.

Download:

30 September 2008

BIODIVERSITY: New Adelaide Urban Forest Biodiversity Program website

The new Adelaide Urban Forest Biodiversity Program website 'Backyards for Wildlife' has been created to provide information and resources on Adelaide’s biodiversity, wildlife gardening and associated activities. The Backyards for Wildlife website provides:

  • plant lists for the 21 identified naturally occurring vegetation ‘environments’ across Adelaide
  • detailed information about more than 130 recommended local native plants
  • advice on how to use plants and other features to attract and support local wildlife
  • fact sheets and an information booklet

BIODIVERSITY, BUILT ENVIRONMENT: Proceedings of 9th National Street Tree Symposium 2008 now available

The full 2008 proceedings can be downloaded here (4 MB). Proceedings and papers for the 2000 to 2008 Symposia can be downloaded here.

SUSTAINABILITY, BUILT ENVIRONMENT: World Standards Day 14 October 2008, 'Intelligent and sustainable buildings'

The theme of this year's World Standards Day message is "Intelligent and sustainable buildings". With a world population that has more than doubled since 1950 and is steadily moving into urban areas – half the world population is expected to be living in an urban environment by the end of 2008 – the building and construction industry has grown into one of the largest industry sectors with immense consequences for all three dimensions of sustainable development – economic, social and environmental.

International standards help to ensure not only basic quality and safety requirements, but also the incorporation of new technologies for the construction and operation of intelligent and sustainable buildings.

World Standards Day is celebrated each year on 14 October to pay tribute to the efforts of thousands of experts worldwide who collaborate within IEC, ISO and ITU to develop voluntary International Standards that facilitate trade, spread knowledge and disseminate technological advances.

CLIMATE: Final Report of Garnaut Climate Change Review released

The Garnaut Climate Change Review has been commissioned by Australia's Commonwealth, state and territory governments to examine the impacts, challenges and opportunities of climate change for Australia. A Draft Report was released on 4 July 2008. The Supplementary Draft Report Targets and trajectories was released on 5 September 2008. The Final Report has now been released.

BUILT ENVIRONMENT: "Darwin traditional owners clash over Inpex development"

ABC News
29 September 2008

Last week's announcement on the Inpex development has sparked a war of words between the two groups representing interests of Darwin's traditional owners.

On Friday, the Japanese energy company announced plans to build a $12 billion gas plant at Blaydin Point on Darwin Harbour...

Read the full article here.

TOXIC WASTE: "Govt to test lake for toxic waste"

The Canberra Times
29 September 2008

The ACT Government will test Lake Ginninderra for chemicals and heavy metals after revelations of widespread contamination at the nearby former Belconnen Naval Transmission Station.

Secret Defence reports obtained by The Canberra Times showed the 143ha Lawson site was heavily contaminated by toxic waste. They raised concerns that high levels of heavy metals had been found in Lake Ginninderra sediment and water samples...

Read the full article here.

28 September 2008

FUNDING: Green Precincts Fund call for expressions of interest

The Green Precincts Fund was announced in the 2008-09 Federal Budget, with funding of $15 million over four years to support at least 10 high-profile demonstration projects. The projects must deliver water and energy efficiency savings while at the same time educating the community about water and energy efficiency. The Green Precincts Fund supports both the Government's 10-year $12.9 billion Water for the Future plan to secure the long-term water supply for all Australians, as well as the Solar Homes and Communities plan to encourage local communities to better mange their water and energy use for current and future generations.

The Australian Government is looking to work with community organisations, sporting clubs and state and local government. Eligible funding recipients must be incorporated in Australia. Funding is capped at 50 per cent of eligible costs, with minimum funding of $500,000, up to a maximum of $1.5 million (GST exclusive) per project proposal.