Keetsa Mattress Store - Keetsa! Blog - Eco-Friendly and Green News » UK and Europe

Swedish McDonalds Offer Charge Up

David Allen — Tue, 17 Feb 2009 10:00:54 +0000

It hard to imagine McDonalds in another country operating differently to how they do anywhere else, but in some cases this just has to be done, take their branches in Sweden where some are built along the main roads but instead of linking the road, they build two branches one on each side of the road.

But what they will be offering in the future for the drivers who stop over is charging post for electrically powered vehicles, although it is not as easy as that sounds. This is because their provider Elforsk has to work out a way to make the charging process shorter otherwise the car park is likely to fill up with cars charging up and no room for anyone else. Currently there are only a few hundred electric vehicles in Sweden, but by 2020, the government would like to this figure reach 600,000.

Source [Tree Hugger]

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Swedish McDonalds Offer Charge Up

Vatican Goes For Solar Power

David Allen — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 13:00:39 +0000

There is one thing that used to be said about the Vatican is that it is set in its ways and those ways go back for hundreds of years, yet recently they have changed for the better. One of the latest additions to the Vatican is five thousand square feet worth of solar panels.

This installation contains two thousand four hundred photovoltaic solar panels costing an estimated $1.6 million. The system will produce around 300 megawatt hours (MWh) of energy in a year, this is enough to power the Nervi Hall and when this is not in use the power simple goes into the Vatican power grid.

Source [Inhabitat]

[Gallery]

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Vatican Goes For Solar Power

Good Energy Pays Good Customers

David Allen — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 13:38:48 +0000

Unfortunately there is only one 100% renewable energy provider in the entire UK, they are known as “Good Energy” and they have some very interesting ideas when it comes to encouraging their customers to produce their own power. In fact they will actually pay customers 10p (15 cents) for every unit of energy that they produce with solar panels or wind turbines.

If you are a microgenerator, we would love you to join HomeGen. Here are three great reasons to join.

With HomeGen, you can have your cake and eat it. We pay you 10p for all the units you generate – even the units you use. Not only are you saving money by buying less electricity, we pay you for using the electricity you generate.
We keep it simple. We do not ask you to install an export meter, which may cost you extra. Just read your total generation meter twice a year, send us the readings, and we pay you – it could not be simpler.
100% renewable. Any electricity you buy from Good Energy to top up your own generation is as green as it comes. In fact, Good Energy is the only company in the UK to supply 100% renewable electricity and nothing else.

Source [Hippy Shopper]

[Gallery]

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Good Energy Pays Good Customers

Recycled Underground Trains Used As Studios

David Allen — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 13:00:47 +0000

It is not that often that you see a London Underground train perched on the roof of a building, covered in graffiti and used by a load of youngsters to practice their art. However, in a new scheme this is exactly what is happening on top of an old warehouse in Shoreditch, London.

The Village Underground is providing studio space for young students and artist at a low cost, around £15 ($20) per week, the carriages were bought for just £200 ($300) each, they have been stripped out and refitted to a standard which more relates to a studio situation.

Source [Inhabitat]

[Gallery]

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Recycled Underground Trains Used As Studios

Wind up lamp is no joke

David Allen — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 21:00:00 +0000

This is great idea and can be used for camping or even in power cuts; there is no need for batteries just a little bit of muscle. In fact one minute of winding will produce enough energy for nearly ten minutes of light.

Features:

Can also be recharged from a 12V car cigarette lighter socket or solar panel

Always ready to work and ideal for camping or emergencies

Never needs new bulbs or batteries

Packaging is recyclable PET plastic

Money from the sale of this product goes to The Woodland Trust, the UK’s leading woodland conservation charity.

Priced at $60

Source [The Solar Centre]

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Wind up lamp is no joke

First eco village to be built in UK

David Allen — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 16:00:58 +0000

The UK’s largest house builder have been given the contract to build the UK’s first eco village, the site which is a former hospital, Hanham Hall near Bristol has been specially commissioned through the governments national regeneration agency.

The eco village is expected to be ready in around three years time, which is way ahead of the green target, set by the government to have all new homes designed and constructed to be zero carbon. There will be a biomass power plant which will provide power and heat for the 200 homes, and be able to recycle rainwater with sustainable drainage.

Source [Guardian]

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First eco village to be built in UK

Recycled Xmas wreath

David Allen — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 21:00:14 +0000

There is nothing like the Xmas season with all of the excesses that we will all no doubt be guilty of, so it’s nice to see that there can be a way of mixing our eco friendly ideals in with the season of excess.

Take this wreath; it has been made from by hand from completely recycled waste materials, so at least not everything will be ending up in the bin or land fill this season.

The wreath is constructed from cut and formed tin cans, it is this that gives it the colour and shine, but also there are some sharp edges too, so care must be taken.

Price is around $50

Source [Bio Me Lifestyle]

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Recycled Xmas wreath

Great bike storage

David Allen — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 13:00:04 +0000

A UK based business has come up with these “Cyclepods” not only look great, they also save space in fact they are said to half the space of a conventional bike rake that holds the same amount of bike.

Unlike some bike sheds that are so very ugly, these have a graceful look to them especially when the canopy is open, it looks like an ocean of sails. These are only on trial in a couple of cities around England at the moment, but should it ok and I am sure that we will be seeing more of these around.

Source [Tree Hugger]

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Great bike storage

Bodies to be frozen in the UK

David Allen — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 13:00:56 +0000

With the space in the UK ‘s grave yards running out, now is the time for the government to do something about it before it gets too late. The answer to the problem would seem to be a new process called Promession, which is the system developed where the body is lowered into liquid nitrogen until it is brittle it is then placed on a mat that vibrates, this totally disintegrates the body until only a fine powder is left.

Now this powder can be buried or whatever the family wants to do with it. This is probably one of the more eco friendly methods of disposing of corpses, even cremation has is draw backs, with filings from teeth creating mercury emissions and the amount of power used.

This alternative to burial has already been given the go ahead in Sweden and over one hundred local councils in the UK are considering the freeze dried method. Which is a good idea because it is estimated that within ten years all available cemetery space will have run out?

Source [This is London]

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Bodies to be frozen in the UK

Car Free Day in the U.K.

Missy — Wed, 19 Sep 2007 23:32:58 +0000

To ease up on vehicle congestion and to reduce carbon emissions, today was Car Free Day in the U.K.

The city of Inverness today was urging people to take alternate means of transportation to and from work, such as buses, trains, and bikes. Many opted to partake and were greeted with offers of free parking and free temporary bikes from a local group.

One dude even made a triathlon out of it by running, cycling, and even canoeing up a river to his job. Now that is green!

This was all part of Wednesday’s Car Free Day.

Source [BBC]

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Car Free Day in the U.K.

Anita “The Queen of Green” Roddick, dies.

David Allen — Tue, 11 Sep 2007 21:00:04 +0000

She was famous for building the Body Shop up from one shop in Brighton to a multi million pound international business with over two thousand stores located in over fifty countries, yet she later became famous for making people think green and act in an eco friendly way.

Anita Roddick was struck down by a fatal brain haemorrhage yesterday she was aged 64!

Many people will remember her for the work that she had done in promoting fair trade, ethical business and anti war campaigning.

Source [Fibre 2 Fashion]

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Anita “The Queen of Green” Roddick, dies.

The TVOnics Eco Friendly DVR

David Allen — Sat, 08 Sep 2007 13:00:13 +0000

The DVR has a casing that is made from aluminium that has come from recycled materials, which could be anything such as cans, trays just about anything that has been thrown away.

It has some really great features too, like being able to record a massive 125 hours of TV from the forty or so channels that are available free.

The TvOnics FP250 has been built to use a low amount of electricity whereas most of the other models would be using around two or three times the amount or power.

Environmentally friendly:

Reduced power consumption.
Constructed from materials and components which minimise environmental impact.

Featrues:

Stylish design and Massive 250GB Hard Disk.
Built in Freeview receiver – no need for a separate freeview box.
Record and Store up to 125 hours of Freeview Digital TV & Radio.
One touch record.
Rewind and Pause live Digital TV.
Record one channel while watching another.
Start to watch recordings before the recording has finished.
Twin Tuner.
Twin SCART.
8 day electronic programme guide provides TV and Radio listings on screen for a full week ahead.
High gloss black aluminium finish.
Parental Control.
Universal Remote Control capable of operating most TV and DVD brands.
Energy efficient and low power standby (less than 20W operating, less than 3W standby).

Source [Tech.Nocr.At]

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The TVOnics Eco Friendly DVR

Bionade the all natural soda

David Allen — Tue, 04 Sep 2007 17:00:21 +0000

All the way from Germany is the first non alcoholic drink called Bionade, which has been made from totally organic fermentation process, which makes the drink both fruity and tart with flavours, Elderberry, Lychee, Herb and Ginger-Orange.

The drinks are isotonic so are also great for people who get involved in sports of all kinds, or for people who are just feeling a little run down, what the case these drinks will refresh you in the organic and natural way.

No pricing as of yet.

Source [Green Thinkers]

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Bionade the all natural soda

Pope to lead youth festival

David Allen — Sat, 01 Sep 2007 15:00:23 +0000

Around 300,000 young Roman Catholics will be at the festival in Loreto, which is one of the most famous shrines in Italy. And is part of a series of festivals that will take place as a run up to the world, youth day, which is to held in Sydney Australia.

The youth festival will see the all the participants using recycled books, bridgeable plates and back packs made from reused nylon.

The festival actually coincides with the Save Creation Day, which is where each visitor will be given a eco friendly gift set in a ruck sack which contains hand powered battery charger, three set of bridgeable plates and the obligatory three bags for recycling trash and anything else they can think of.

This is a good move by the church, shows that they care about the world.

Source [Associated Press]

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Pope to lead youth festival

Priest to offer green confessions

David Allen — Sat, 01 Sep 2007 13:00:43 +0000

Now you that you are doing the right thing when god is in your side, and just to confirm this a priest from my neck of the woods, here in Suffolk, UK.

The priest Don Anthony Sutch, is a Benedictine monk, who was the head teacher of the local school, Downside, until he resigned to take up his position of parish priest, will be at the Waveney Greenpeace festival, which takes place over this weekend.

The priest will set up an eco confessions box, where all of those eco sinners can confess their eco sins, no matter how small.

Source [Wake Up America]

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Priest to offer green confessions

Plants not thirsty means flood risks

David Allen — Fri, 31 Aug 2007 17:00:09 +0000

Global warming may be coming back with a vengeance, as it appears that because plants do not drink so much water, means that the rain water and other sources such as under ground water stores will not be depleted as fast.

In the long term the effect of this could be very serious indeed, because if this continues the water levels will build until there is nowhere else for the water to go, this could mean more and more floods.

Source [Tree Hugger]

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Plants not thirsty means flood risks

More wildlife at risk in the UK

David Allen — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 15:00:48 +0000

According to the UK Biodiversity Action Plan, which lists all of the problems that the country is having keeping its plants and wildlife alive, the list is getting longer as more flowers and wildlife are falling foul of the eco unfriendly things that are going on the country.

Amongst those newly added are the house sparrow, harvest mouse, cuckoo, garden tiger moth, grass snake and the hedgehog, which just goes to show how bad things are, however this is a preventative measure, which should see the number of these little creatures increase significantly over the next three years.

Extinction is such a terrible thing, and these days this sort of thing should not be happening in this day and age it is totally unforgivable in this day and age.

Source [Hippy Shopper]

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More wildlife at risk in the UK

Going green by guilt

David Allen — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 17:00:39 +0000

According to a survey by leading insurance company Norwich Union, many people in the UK are going green not because they believe in being eco friendly but out of guilt. This is a similar thing to keeping up with the Jones, in fact the figure is put at 68% of the people in UK are recycling out of guilt.

But at the same time around 56% of UK people feel that living an unethical life is a real taboo, in fact maybe even as bad as drinking and driving.

In the UK there is a push to force people to go green, this may be through only collecting the trash once a fortnight or charging for each pick up, however this may cause a rise in illegal dumping, which is only going to cause even more problems down the line.

The simple fact with trash is that it needs to be cleared, limiting people to small pick ups is no good, when the supermarkets are creating a huge amount of plastic and paper, maybe they should start there, reduce the trash at source and therefore reduce the trash in the home.

Source [Hippy Shopper]

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Going green by guilt

Vegan Handbags from Matt & Nat

Missy — Mon, 27 Aug 2007 00:20:56 +0000

Matt & Nat, is a European retailer that sells fashion with compassion. They manufacture and promote vegan handbags and recently added footwear to their growing line of eco friendly fashion items.

They have a varied and extensive collection of vegan handbags, some are uniquely unisex. Their is the Vintage collection, the Pebble collection, and ever fashionable Japanese paper collection.

The animal-friendly bags have various price points, and the one pictured above is the Dirty Harry it is unisex, and retails for $135.

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Vegan Handbags from Matt & Nat

Biodegradable bowls

David Allen — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 19:00:17 +0000

Normally items like bowls and plates etc are not normally available in biodegradable materials, UK designer Tom Dixon as come up with a material that is both sturdy and biodegradable.

Tom Dixon designed bowls, features:

Biodegradable set of 4 plastic bowls by Tom Dixon. 80% Bamboo.

Dimensions – 10.2dia x 10.8h

Priced at around $50.

Source [This Next]

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Biodegradable bowls

Top ten green gadgets from The Guardian

David Allen — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 17:00:30 +0000

This is a useful list compiled by the Guardian a UK based national newspaper. The list is for gadgets, but what makes it interesting for us, is that they are eco friendly gadgets.

Normally gadget and eco friendly are not a great mix, but in this list we see that there is a quite a relationship going on between the gadgets that we love to have and making them eco friendly in the process.

So it can be true now, you can have your cake, and eat it!

1. IntelliPanel – Cost: $60 – Available from: http://www.oneclickpower.co.uk

2. DIY Kyoto Wattson – Cost: $250 if you pre-order the standard version; $700 to buy the limited edition version. – Available from: http://www.diykyoto.co.uk

3. Roberts Wanderer (R9957) – Cost: from $60 – Available from: http://www.currys.co.uk and http://www.amazon.co.uk

4. Solar Technology Freeloader – Cost: from $50 – Available from: http://www.naturalcollection.com and http://www.ethicalsuperstore.com

5. Tefal Quick Cup – Cost: from $120 – Available from: http://www.currys.co.uk and http://www.amazon.co.uk

6. Citizen Eco Drive black ion-plated watch – Cost: $500 – Available from: Citizen

7. Horizon H-Racer – Cost: $120 – Available from: http://www.horizonfuelcell.com and Science Museum

8. Reware solar beach tote – Cost: $250 – Available from: http://www.rewarestore.com

9. USBCell – Cost: from $16 for two – Available from: http://www.usbcell.com and http://www.play.com

10. One to look out for: Asus EcoBook – Cost: £TBC (on sale later this year) – Available from: http://www.uk.asus.com

What would be in your top ten list of eco friendly gadgets?

Source [Tree hugger]

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Top ten green gadgets from The Guardian

Wind farms could be a danger

David Allen — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 13:00:45 +0000

Over the years we have seen a huge growth in the building of wind farms, naturally we all think that this is a great idea. Yet in smaller countries like the UK the wind farms are being built offshore, this is partly because of the limited land available for building on, and the opposition from residents of areas that have been marked as potential wind farm sites.

However there is increasing concern that the construction of these wind farms can be a danger to marine life and in particular whales and dolphins. When a wind turbine is constructed the noise from pile drivers can be heard up to 80 kms away, but the closer they the worse the effects, such as damaged hearing and behaviour patterns. This too can be said of the laying of the cables and ship movements.

At the moment there are five offshore wind farms in operation, while there are another fourteen planned. It is expected that by 2020 wind farms will account for around 20% of the UK power supply.

Source [The Independent]

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Wind farms could be a danger

The bamboo crash helmet

David Allen — Fri, 24 Aug 2007 19:00:24 +0000

Now to some people this may see rather strange, a crash helmet of all things being made from bamboo. But it is true and the simple fact is that it does actually live up to all the safety standards.

The Roof R06 Bamboo is a great looking design, which uses the unique pattern of the slivers of bamboo; it looks a bit like the pattern that you get on some wooden floors.

The helmet will be priced at around $380.

Source [Tree Hugger]

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The bamboo crash helmet

Naked protest against global warming

David Allen — Mon, 20 Aug 2007 13:00:32 +0000

Normally when there is a good cause, people do things that are above and beyond the call of duty, these people are called heroes and it is people like who inspire others to go out and do good things.

This is no different to the 600 heroes who stripped naked and posed for the installation artist Spencer Tunick on the Aletsch Glacier in Switzerland. Being naked it is supposed to demonstrate the weakness of the human race, similar to how the planet is being exposed to climate change.

Greenpeace believe that if we carry on the way that we are, by 2080 there will be no glaciers at all in Switzerland. Bring naked is a great way of gaining attention, and it works.

Source [GreenPeace]

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Naked protest against global warming

Lamps made from milk cartons

David Allen — Fri, 10 Aug 2007 17:00:48 +0000

Plastic milk cartons or jugs can be a bit of a pain, they are great for carrying and storing the white stuff in, but on the down side, they are large and made of plastic, which makes it fairly difficult to dispose of. Yes of course they can be recycled, but there is news that a lot of recycled waste is still actually being disposed of into landfill sites, because local governments cannot store it for long.

However every now and then there are some designers that come along with a great idea and iPlay Design have done just that with these milk cartons. They even supply kits to help people create their own lamps, which can be decorated to their own designs.

Now you know what to do with those old discarded milk cartons, use your imagination to shed some light onto it!

Source [Trend Hunter]

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Lamps made from milk cartons

In Iceland eco cars park for free

David Allen — Wed, 08 Aug 2007 19:00:19 +0000

This is the sort of incentive that all cities should be taking up. New parking regulations in the capital of Iceland, Reykjavik. Means that cars that are considered to be eco friendly will be able to park in the center of the capital for free.

It is estimated that the total number cars that will be applicable is only 1,400 this is out of 230,747, which is less than one per cent.

For a car to be considered eco friendly it has to pass the eco test, this means the car must consume less than five liters of fuel per 100 km. Cars that qualify are to be given a special disc that is placed on the inside of the window screen.

Source [Iceland Review]

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In Iceland eco cars park for free

Bridge made out of cardboard

David Allen — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 21:00:10 +0000

Imagine a foot bridge that spans a river and is made from card board! The very fact that it is made from card board and is by a river should be enough to make you think; I mean water plus card board equals and big mess.

Yet this is exactly what architect Shigeru Ban has done, over the Gardon River in the South of France. This is an ingenious idea to show that you do not need concrete, steel and glass to build a structure.

The bridge is made up from 281 cardboard tubes, the steps are made from recycled paper and plastic and the whole structure is resting on a foundation of wooden boxes that have been packed tight with sand, which makes it strong enough to carry twenty people at a time.

Unfortunately the bridge is only a temporary land mark, and is due to be taken down in six weeks time, before the rainy season starts. See they always forget about the rain!

Source [Inhabitat]

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Bridge made out of cardboard

Eco vegan friendly Tee’s

David Allen — Tue, 07 Aug 2007 19:00:35 +0000

T shirts by Tippi Tappi, they are made from 100% organic fair-trade cotton and are eco vegan friendly. Which just has to be good. Each T shirt has an eco vegan slogan on each, which gets the message across.

Some of the T shirts are really only suitable for vegans, which is ok, but don’t worry there are plenty of other styles that are suitable for all.

The business is the brain child of a graphic designer who thoroughly believes in animal rights and the environment. Wearing one of these t shirts will get you noticed and get the message out there for every one to know.

Source [Hippy Shopper]

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Eco vegan friendly Tee’s

Cities in Germany to adopt green driving zones

David Allen — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 19:00:19 +0000

The green zones will be ranked from two to five and will be called “Umweltzonen” and are based on the European emissions scale. These rankings determine when and where you are allowed to driver your car.

There will be no level one, which is the least eco friendly vehicles or a level five, because the euro level five legislation has not come into effect yet.

As a result of driving in the wrong the zone will result in a fine of forty euros or so. The cities adopting these eco friendly zones are Ilsfeld, Leonberg, Ludwigsburg, Mannheim, Schwäbisch-Gmünd, and Stuttgart, and this will be followed in January 2008 by Augsburg, München, and Nürnberg.

Source [Auto Blog]

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Cities in Germany to adopt green driving zones

UK Advertising standards warning

David Allen — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 17:00:51 +0000

The Advertising Standards Authority is warning consumers about the claims from some car manufacturers on green and eco friendly matters.

This comes in the wake of a recent case where manufacturers had been claiming that their vehicles are greener and have lower Co2 levels and emissions etc. Which had contravened the ASA advertising guidelines.

The ASA are to reinforce this with adverts of their own, which provide the consumer with more information and what to look for in advertising.

In future the ASA will need to see proof of the claims that vehicle man factures make, before any advert can be approved.

Source [Motor Trader]

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UK Advertising standards warning

Win an Eco Goody Bag

David Allen — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 15:00:33 +0000

Capital of the UK, London is trying to be green, with the mayor Ken Livingstone trying his best to stop gas guzzling auto, trash and plastic bags, the whole London green machine appears to be gearing up. To celebrate this Visit London are giving away a “Totally London Eco Goody Bag” to the winner of a prize draw.

That’s not all, inside the bag is:

A Collins Gem Carbon Calculator (kindly donated by Collins)
Short Books’ ‘Change the Word 9 to 5’
A Mini bottle of Champagne
A Limited Edition Tour de France cycling jersey
A Visit London flash USB card
A London 2012 pin badge
An overnight stay for two at Radisson Edwardian New Providence Wharf including a bottle of Champagne

To enter the competition use the link below, register and enter. Good Luck.

Source [Visit London]

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Win an Eco Goody Bag

Brad and Angelina buy vineyard in France

David Allen — Sun, 05 Aug 2007 07:00:14 +0000

Hiding from the media all of the time has become an effort for celebrities, but when you have two celebrities in one relationship, then its double the trouble.

So Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie have decided to up sticks from the States and head off to Europe where the world moves at a slightly slower pace. Mind you they just bought the Chateau Val Joanis in France, which is set in the middle of a 1,000 acre, 2,000 year old eco friendly vineyard.

The vineyard has been using a sustainable system of agriculture for sometime now, using only natural products, which keep the vineyard organic.

Source [Ecorazzi]

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Brad and Angelina buy vineyard in France

Does tap water have a carbon footprint?

David Allen — Sat, 04 Aug 2007 19:00:45 +0000

You would have thought not, but according to research, there are 19 billion liters of tap water used everyday in the UK alone, so you can just imagine what the world figure is.

Its not the actual water, but the processing that causes the problems. In the UK the processing and distribution of tap water uses around two to three per cent of all of the electricity in the UK and at the same time creates around half a per cent of all UK carbon emissions.

So you see, tap water is not as green (or clear!) as we may of thought.

Source [Tree Hugger]

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Does tap water have a carbon footprint?

Spain to have offshore wind farms

David Allen — Sat, 04 Aug 2007 17:00:53 +0000

Spain is already the world’s second largest producer of wind power. And is hoping to increase their reliance of this by passing a new law which will allow wind farms to be placed along the 4000 miles of coast line that makes up three sides of the country.

Spain already has more than 400 wind farms and 12,000 wind turbines on the mainland; these generate around eight per cent of the country’s total electrical consumption. This is about six million homes and actually reduces the country’s carbon emissions by 9.2 million tons.

Source [Renewable Energy]

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Spain to have offshore wind farms

Get a piece of the London Underground

David Allen — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 19:00:22 +0000

For anyone who has traveled on the London Underground, one thing that is unmistakable is the material on the seating.

Its colors varied but never the less would be recognized anywhere in the world. Which is why these limited edition bags from the UK retro people at Rennies Seaside Modern, located on the Kent coast in Folkestone.

These bags are made from unused but original retro material, this a limited supply so when they have gone, that’s it, the end of the line!

The bag measures 14 inches x 11 inches and will cost you £65, which is about $130.

Source [Hippy Shopper]

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Get a piece of the London Underground

Portugal’s Silver Coast is Eco Friendly

David Allen — Thu, 02 Aug 2007 15:00:59 +0000

The development of Royal Obidos Spa and Golf resort, which is being developed by Oceanico Developments, has been given a great accolade of being recognized by the Portuguese Investment Agency. This government backed agency gives awards to developments that show that they have taken care to have a low environmental impact on the region as well as supporting the local community through economy, employment and other projects.

The development is due to be launched some time this year is situated close to the town of Obidos, where there has been a massive injection of cash in the area, around €160 million. The area which is around one hours drive from the countries capital Lisbon, has seen a lot of green influences such as cycle tracks, lakes and of course golf courses.

Source [Homes World Wide]

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Portugal’s Silver Coast is Eco Friendly

Save the Planet: Take off your tie

erin — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 09:00:55 +0000

Hippy Shopper is reporting that the Italian government is encouraging male workers to no longer wear ties. Why? Because it’s bad for the environment!

Hippy Shopper writes

The Italian Health Ministry is urging employers to allow their male staff to take off their ties in the hot weather. The Health Ministry said in a statement that “Taking your tie off immediately lowers your temperature by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius”. That should then mean businesses can turn down the air-conditioning in their offices and save on electricity (and money). Predictably, Italy’s tie makers took a dim view of this edict. One tie maker said “We can now happily continue with our lifestyle, using cars, consuming fuel, heating and cooling our homes at leisure. On one condition: we should not wear a tie while we do so.”

I find this a little hilarious. What do you think?

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Save the Planet: Take off your tie

Vegan Sour Cream

erin — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 08:00:50 +0000

I love my sour cream. Luckily, I have discovered this for when I’m on my vegan wagon. (I admit, I’m not the most innocent vegan!)

Tofutti Sour Supreme is as close to the real thing as you may get. It’s similar to other Tofutti products in terms of quality and taste.

You can get 225g from £2.49 from Goodness Direct.

via hippy shopper

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Vegan Sour Cream

London Centre of Fashion to Open 'Centre for Sustainable Fashion'

erin — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 04:00:34 +0000

The London College of Fashion is currently working on an exciting new project: a ‘Centre for Sustainable Fashion’ ! The Centres’ goal is to push sustainable fashion forward. It hopes to provide a forum for experts in sustainable practices and existing partnerships for collaboration and new, innovative ideas.

They are still in the process of securing funding and the school is expected to open in April 2008.

“London College of Fashion is committed to drive up the quality of advice, information and support surrounding issues of sustainability and climate change,” said Dr Frances Corner, Head of London College of Fashion.

“Environmental and ethical concerns should be high on everyone’s agenda, as fundamental considerations for any forward thinking fashion organization.”

via chic

image via business week

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London Centre of Fashion to Open 'Centre for Sustainable Fashion'

Woman ends up in the recycle bin

David Allen — Sun, 29 Jul 2007 15:00:08 +0000

Now this is the story that every recycler dreads, ending up in a recycle themselves. In this case the woman from Sittingbourne in Kent, UK, was an avid recycler, she had taken some clothes down to the recycle bin, where she became lodged in the slot with only her feet showing.

Apparently what happened was she had sorted out some clothes, took them to the bin which was located in large super stores car park, but all of a sudden changed her mind and decided to try a liberate some of the clothes.

It was only another person turning up at the recycle center who at first heard her cries and then see her feet hanging out of the slot. The rescuer was unable to help her out, so the emergencies services were called in who had to use their hydraulic cutting equipment to get the woman out of the bin.

Source [Spluch]

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Woman ends up in the recycle bin

Comfy Seatbelt Cushions

erin — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 10:00:23 +0000

These cushions are made out of old seatbelts. They are completely seamless, so there is no chance of feathers flying everywhere.

They are filled with duck feathers, which makes them a lot less green, but a lot more comfy. It all depends on how far you take your green ideals.

The ones with the floral pattern are £85.00, are 38cm x 38cm and you can get them in beige or brown. The ones that are just plain are £65.00, 46cm x 46cm in beige or brown, too!

They are available from Eco-Centric.

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Comfy Seatbelt Cushions

Sustainable Undies from G=9.8

erin — Fri, 20 Jul 2007 00:00:32 +0000

These undies are HOT. This bra and panty set from g=9.8 is made out of fiber derived from the recycling of white pine-tree prunings.

It comes with eco-packaging that is a reusable bag!

The bra is €47.90 and the panties are €29.80. You can find out more here.

via alternative consumer

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Sustainable Undies from G=9.8

Clothes Swap With Hybrid!

erin — Tue, 17 Jul 2007 06:00:16 +0000

Hybird is having a clothing swap at Feather Duster. On July 21st, from 2-6, for all you green Londoners out there.

Feel free to bring your old clothes and swap them for new-to-you goodies! All items that do not get swapped will be donated to the Salvation Army.

To ensure that you get a space at this fun and eco-friendly event, shoot them an email. Spaces are limited, so hurry up.

For more information please visit their website!

via ethical fashionista

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Clothes Swap With Hybrid!

Design-It-Yourself Recycled Bags from Feitrag

erin — Mon, 16 Jul 2007 04:00:37 +0000

Swiss company Feitrag makes these awesome recycled bags out of discarded truck tarpaulins. They come in tons of different colors and sizes. Their website is designed so that you can order a pre-made bag or design your own, based on colors, truck design and type of bag.

Each bag comes with tons of pockets and are great for those who have tons of gadgets.

A word of caution: these bags need to be shipped overseas (save you lucky Europeans!) and run around $160.00 American. Want to have a go at designing your own? Check out Feitrag now!

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Design-It-Yourself Recycled Bags from Feitrag

‘Zoe’ Organic Bermuda Shorts

erin — Mon, 16 Jul 2007 03:00:10 +0000

These stylish shorts from Kuyichi are made out of 99% soft organic denim.

Kuyichi believes that fashion needs to be environmentally, ethically and socially sound. They promise that not only were these shorts easy on the environment, they are soft, comfortable and easy to wear!Available in waist sizes 28″, 30″ and 32″ they are £70 from Ethics Girls. They are £70.00 per pair.

via hippy shopper

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‘Zoe’ Organic Bermuda Shorts

Turn Your Jeans Into Sandals!

erin — Sat, 14 Jul 2007 04:00:33 +0000

For all you Brits out there, Recycle Your Jeans will take your old pair of jeans and turn them into chic summer sandals!

Right now, they can only produce women’s sandals, but they promise that more styles and men’s versions are on their way.

They promise the sandals you receive will be “ultra-comfortable soft, springy shoes which are approved by podiatrists.”

It’s a great way to hang on to that pair of jeans you love so much but can’t bear to throw away!

For more information about this great service, check out their website!

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Turn Your Jeans Into Sandals!

EU Gives Millions for Biofuel Research

erin — Fri, 13 Jul 2007 08:00:32 +0000

The European Union is planning on giving some of its $220 million international aid to countries that will invest in biofuel crop production and biofuel research. It’s part of their greater plan to reach their goal of increasing the types and amount of alternative energy being used in the EU, so that they can meet their carbon emission reduction targets.

However, this plan is not coming up all green. EU Development Commissioner Louis Michel admits that turning land from food production to biofuel crop production could reduce food production and increase food prices.

The fact he acknowledges this problem is a big step and hopefully they will do something about it before it becomes a problem spot. However, kudos to the EU for aggressively approaching their carbon emissions goals.

via the independent

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EU Gives Millions for Biofuel Research

Organic Baby Carrier

erin — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 07:00:16 +0000

When I first saw this cute baby sling, I actually wanted a baby so I could buy one. Maybe I could get a puppy or something.

This brightly colored sling is made out of organic polar fleece. It’s also very versatile, so that as your baby (or puppy!) grows, you can find new ways to wear it, so it will always be useful!

They are £28 and are made by Scottish company Bright Sparks. You can order yours, or find out more, here.

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Organic Baby Carrier

Germany Wants 45% Renewable Energy by 2030

erin — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 08:00:57 +0000

Germany just made an ambitious announcement that it aims to have 45% of all its energy come from renewable sources. They are looking at a variety of options, including solar, wind and geo-thermal energy in order to meet this goal.

The EU as a whole agreed to a goal of 20% renewable energy sources by 2020. Germany is definitely hauling out the big guns by declaring it will top this!

Germany also hopes that this move will increase employment and help the German economy. There are now over 214,000 jobs in the renewable energy sector and thousands more are expected to come up as Germany looks to accomplish this green goal.

via hippy shopper

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Germany Wants 45% Renewable Energy by 2030

‘Round World Green Voyage Complete!

erin — Wed, 11 Jul 2007 06:00:20 +0000

Travelers who went around the world in sustainable green style can finally rest their feet! Or motors, as this case may be.

Earthrace, a 78-foot green powerboat landed in Cork, Ireland yesterday. When it did, it set a new world record

The boat is made out of carbon composites and runs on biofuel made out of animal fat, rape seed, soybeans and other biodiesel sources.

The Earthrace crew includes Irish sailors Fred Holland and Adrian Erangey from Cork.

Next year, Earthrace hopes to break the world record that was set by British powerboat, Cable & Wireless.

You can check out this fantastic boat — and maybe meet her crew — at Cork’s city quays until July 13.

via independent

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‘Round World Green Voyage Complete!

Keetsa Mattress Store - Keetsa! Blog - Eco-Friendly and Green News » UK and Europe

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