Sustainable Dunedin City

Sustainable Dunedin City is excited to announce that with the generous support of the Positive Futures Trust we have another $2000 available to support even more community projects! Round Two of the Big Green Challenge is now open! Applications close 5pm Friday September 1oth.

Application Form

Round One saw a healthy number of really creative food related applications, so for Round Two we’re particularly interested in projects focused on the areas of water, transport, and energy.

The Big Green Challenge is linking in with 10:10:10 (October 10th, 2010), a day when thousands of communities all over the world will be getting to work as part of a Global Climate Working Bee organised by 350.org. It’s set to be the biggest DIY event the world has ever seen.

To support this day, Sustainable Dunedin City Inc. has money, time and expertise to offer to help your organisation, business, school or group get its community project off the ground.

We’re still on Facebook, throwing up links to cool DIY projects and sharing ideas. We look forward to seeing yours!

Dear Members,

Three years in we were delighted at the response to our AGM on Wednesday. Not only did you turn up, but you turned up with ideas, ready to contribute to the development of our 5-year plan. And what ideas – really good material for us to go forward with. The minutes are here: SDC-2010-agm-minutes, and when we’ve had the chance to work through Jinty’s notes, we’ll get back to you with SDC’s next steps. Thank you.

You wouldn’t believe how many good ideas were mustered by the offer of $2,000 through the Big Green Challenge. The committee has been thrilled at the number and quality of applications for the Big Green Challenge, from a wide range of enthusiastic community groups, schools and organisations. An independent expert panel has been established to consider the applications, and will announce successful grant recipients before the end of the week.

And just to top off a week in the life of being part of SDC, committee member Bob Lloyd has been working on a submission to MED’s Draft Energy Strategy. In a nutshell, Bob see’s the strategy as being back to front – it prioritises mineral and fossil fuel extraction over the reduction of GHG emissions, the reduction of our reliance on fossil fuels and increased investment in renewable energy sources.

Bob’s submission on behalf of Sustainable Dunedin City is attached. If you would like to make your opinion heard, please make a submission on the Strategy by this Thursday 2 September. Information on the strategies and on making a submission can be found at the Ministry for Economic Development site http://www.med.govt.nz/templates/ContentTopicSummary____19431.aspx

This is a BUMPER edition – check out all you can do in Sustainable Dunedin City over the next month!

Read on!

1. Upcoming Sustainability Events and Courses

i) THIS Wednesday, 1 September 12 – 1pm - Climate Change & Small Island Developing States: Implications for Tourism and Strategic Trade Policy Responses. Presented by Keron Niles of Energy Studies, Department of Physics

ii) THIS Wednesday September 1, 6pm – 350.org Gathering, Dunedin Centre for Social Innovation, Malcam Trust building, 174 Princes St

iii) THIS Thursday 2nd September from 7.30 - 9am - ‘Smart Business’ Breakfast for owners of small and medium sized businesses, Ironic Cafe and Bar, 9 Anzac Avenue, Dunedin

iv) WOW! Wednesday Organic Workshops 12.10-12.50pm, Otago Polytech

v) Sunday, September 5 - Coast Road Market

vi) Saturday September 11, 10am - 5pm - Reintroduction of High Street Cable Car – Community Information Meeting, Dunedin Cable Car Trust

vii) Saturday September 11, 9.30am – 4pm – Coastal Dune Workshop, Long Beach Hall, Driver Street, Long Beach, Dunedin

viii) September 12 – 19 – Conservation Week - Love New Zealand - Arohaina i a Aotearoa

ix) Sunday, September 12, 10am - 1pm - Pa Harakeke - Planting Workday, Orokonui Ecosanctuary - Te Korowai o Mihiwaka

x) Monday, September 13, 7pm - Dunedin Vegetable Growers’ Club, St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, 42 Macandrew Road, South Dunedin

xi) Wednesday, September 22 - On Car Free Day, Get The Train has chartered another train to allow Northern Coast and West Harbour residents to use public transport for the day.

xii) Friday, September 24, 2pm - EMAN410 SEMINAR SERIES - “Peak Oil, Peak Economy: Energy, Money, and the End of Growth” Richard Heinberg Post Carbon Institute, Archway 1 Lecture Theatre (Video Link) cnr Union Street East and Leith Walk

2. Dunedin Sustainability in Action!

- Plastic Really Fantastic

- Port Chalmers Transition Town Public Transport Meeting

- Dunedin’s Fuel Consumption Under Review

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1. Upcoming Sustainability Events and Courses

We’d love to advertise your sustainability-related event or course - please send contributions in to dk.sk@xtra.co.nz.

i) THIS Wednesday, 1 September 12 – 1pm - Climate Change & Small Island Developing States: Implications for Tourism and Strategic Trade Policy Responses. Presented by Keron Niles of Energy Studies, Department of Physics, Commerce Boardroom (Rooms 4.19/4.20), School of Business, Corner of Clyde Street and Union Street East Contact Tara Duncan 03 479 3486 tara.duncan@otago.ac.nz

ii) THIS Wednesday September 1, 6pm – 350.org Gathering, Dunedin Centre for Social Innovation, Malcam Trust building, 174 Princes St

Thanks very much to all of you who came along to our first Dunedin 350 meeting for 2010 on Tuesday evening. Powered by freshly baked cookies, we threw around some promising ideas that could really see Dunedin play a huge role in this year’s 350 day of action – the Global Climate Working Bee to be held on 10/10/10 (Sunday 10th October).

The focus this year is on “getting to work to show our leaders the world is ready for climate solutions”. I’m convinced this approach of combining practical and political action is the way forward, and will succeed on 3 fun-loving levels:

1) In the absence of leadership from governments, we need to get to work cutting emissions in our own communities and backyards. This isn’t to say that we can come anywhere near addressing the challenge with voluntary action alone, but it is something we can do to make an immediate impact and start the transition. Imagine the impact if 20% of New Zealanders cut their emissions by 10% over the next year.

2) We are social creatures and one of the biggest influences on people’s behaviour is what they see their friends, peers and neighbours doing. Imagine the change if you got everyone on your block together to work on a climate solution project on 10/10/10.

3) The call for action will be much stronger when we show how we’re walking the talk. Imagine how powerful it would be to have thousands of Dunedinites out getting to work on climate solutions on the same day, and sending pictures and stories to our local and national politicians.

If this is to succeed, though, we’re going to need to muster all of that fantastic people power we saw unleashed at last year’s 350 Spring Food Festival. 10/10/10 is coming up fast, but there’s still time for us to pull together and build a massive response.

I think the best way to combat those feelings of disillusion is to feel the power and possibilities when you have a room full of passionate, like-minded people. Let’s do it!

Hope to see you there,

Paul

iii) THIS Thursday 2nd September from 7.30 - 9am - ‘Smart Business’ Breakfast for owners of small and medium sized businesses, Ironic Cafe and Bar, 9 Anzac Avenue, Dunedin

We love Aotearoa NZ. We want to look after it and all of it’s people…including business owners.

Take this opportunity to share your views about what central government is (or is not) doing for business and to tell me what you think could help your business prosper.

I want to be your voice in Parliament so please come along to our ‘listening post’ and let me know your thoughts.

RSVP for catering purposes to hina.alvi@parliament.govt.nz by Tuesday 31st August.

Please pass on to anyone you think may be interested.

Hope to see you there,

David Clendon
Green MP and spokesperson for small business

iv) WOW! Wednesday Organic Workshops 12.10-12.50pm, Otago Polytech

September 1

Seed Sowing for Beginners - Grow your own seedlings for spring planting in October - learn the basics of seed sowing and how to make your own organic seed growing mix - save $$$$$ on plants this growing season! Punnets and seed supplied.

September 8

Garlic Planting for Solstice Snoozers - if you missed the mid-winter garlic planting date, don’t panic, you have another chance! Learn how to grow a bumper garlic crop using organic fertilisers and easy weed control methods.

September 15

Compost Making for the Home Gardener - ever wondered how to make a weed-free, high nutrient compost from your garden and kitchen wastes? Come along and see how easy it is to make a top quality compost that will be ready for use before Xmas!

Meet at Student Allotment Gardens (west side of D Block) at 12.10pm. Workshop locations will vary, so please meet at the Allotment Gardens on time.

Wear sturdy footwear & bring gloves if preferred. You are encouraged to join in, but you are welcome to bring your lunch and just watch! Cancellations will be posted at the Allotment Garden on the morning of the workshop.

See you there! Michelle Ritchie - Organic by Design michelle@organicbydesign.co.nz

v) Sunday, September 5 - Coast Road Market

The Coast Road Market is alive and well! It’s held on the first Sunday of every month, rain or shine, in the grounds of Coast Road Retreat, alongside the Art Shed, at 728 Coast Road, Seacliff. The Market is a unique blend of food, coffee, craft and clothes; local produce, plants, preserves, pakoras, prints, patches, portraits and paintings; bric a brac, books, toys and more!! It’s a free market so if you would like to have a stall, come along before 11am to set up. Or you can phone us first on 465 7990 with any queries.

vi) Saturday September 11, 10am - 5pm - Reintroduction of High Street Cable Car – Community Information Meeting, Dunedin Cable Car Trust

This is to invite you to come along to the Community Information Meeting at High Street School on Saturday 11th September 2010 any time between 10am and 5pm to find out about the reintroduction of the Cable Car to the High Street, Mornington.

Members of the Dunedin Cable Car Trust, as well as interested members of the public and other people, will be present as will displays and information areas where ideas and thoughts can be discussed and brought out into the open with regards the best possible outcomes for the project.

The Dunedin Cable Car Trust is made up of genuine Dunedin supporters who wish for nothing more than to see the reintroduction of the Cable Car to the High Street and a project that the people of Dunedin can feel part of and take pride in.

We look forward to seeing you there on Saturday 11th September 2010.

Yours sincerely,

Tony Chance, Bill Campbell, Phillip Cole, Neville Jemmett, Don Myers, Sue Russell

Dunedin Cable Car Trust

Dcctrust@gmail.com

vii) Saturday 11th September 11, 9.30am – 4pm – Coastal Dune Workshop, Long Beach Hall, Driver Street, Long Beach, Dunedin

A free workshop – including free lunch!Learn from the experts about natural dune form and function and the role and importance of our dunes in the face of climate change.

Discover what Coast Care groups around the region are doing to protect dunes using native plants.

SEATS ARE LIMITED. RESERVE YOUR SEAT BY 1ST SEPTEMBER.

For more information please contact:

Renee Gordon on 477 4000 or at rgordon@dcc.govt.nz

Michael Bergin at davidbergin.erl@gmail.comor visit www.dunestrust.org.nz

viii) September 12 – 19 – Conservation Week - Love New Zealand - Arohaina i a Aotearoa:

There are plenty of ways to participate – with talks, walks, planting and ‘Words on a Wing’– all detailed on the new website at www.conservationweek.org.nz. The website has a special focus on education, and features a teachers’ area and a kids’ area (with video clips, activities, competitions and resources). Contact Liz lsherwood@doc.govt.nz Ph 477 0677 for more information.

ix) Sunday, September 12, 10am - 1pm - Pa Harakeke - Planting Workday, Orokonui Ecosanctuary - Te Korowai o Mihiwaka

Come along and enjoy a few hours working together with whanau, friends, and new faces, adding to this collection of special cultural varieties of flax/harakeke, and other native plants.

Some tools and gloves will be provided, or bring your own spade/grubber/loppers/etc.

Jobs for children too. Dress warmly for the conditions, with sturdy footwear.

Morning tea provided - bring a picnic lunch for afterwards.

A Kati Huirapa Runaka - Orokonui Ecosanctuary shared project.

NAU MAI, HAERE MAI - ALL WELCOME

This will be the first event of Conservation Week 2010 - Love New Zealand and a project which celebrates 2010 International Year of Biodiversity

David Mules, Coastal Otago Area - Department of Conservation 03 474 6926 or dmules@doc.govt.nz

x) Monday, September 13, 7pm - Dunedin Vegetable Growers’ Club, St. Patrick’s Parish Centre, 42 Macandrew Road, South Dunedin

Guest Speaker: Jenny Neilson will talk about the Enviroschools Programme in Otago, and the Waste Minimisation role in the Dunedin City Council.

Also on the agenda is problem-solving Brains Trust; Vegetable of the month - brussel sprouts; seed-sharing, swapping; sales table. Visitors and non-members welcome. $2 door charge. Contact Barrie 455-1940 or Carol 454-4625.

xi) Wednesday, September 22 - On Car Free Day, Get The Train has chartered another train to allow Northern Coast and West Harbour residents to use public transport for the day.

All local schools are participating and collectively we need to fill this train again, to make the point we need low carbon, efficient public transport, and this great social link weaving through our communities! Tickets are $5 cash each way, Waitati stopping all stations to Dunedin return + Depart 7.30am Waitati + Arrive 8.30am Dunedin + Depart Dunedin 5.45pm. For more information contact Danielle on 482 1233.

xii) Friday, September 24, 2pm - EMAN410 SEMINAR SERIES - “Peak Oil, Peak Economy: Energy, Money, and the End of Growth” Richard Heinberg Post Carbon Institute, Archway 1 Lecture Theatre (Video Link) cnr Union Street East and Leith Walk

Energy is not just a segment of the economy, it is the basis of all economic activity. More expensive energy and declining amounts of fossil fuels are assured in the years and decades to come; as a result, the current world economic crisis should be considered the beginning of a long-term contraction that will continue until the economy can be supported by renewable resources harvested at sustainable rates. This contraction can be managed in such a way as to support society and ecosystems—but not if economists and politicians are still planning for conventional growth.

All interested are welcome to attend.

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2. Dunedin Sustainability in Action!

This section is about some of the inspirational things happening in our community, as well as ’sustainability’ volunteer opportunities in and around Dunedin. If you’ve got a project you need more hands for (or even a project that needs hands to get started!), or a group you think our members may like to join, send me a paragraph…and don’t forget your contact details. And if you’re doing something inspirational, or know of someone that is, let me know (dk.sk@xtra.co.nz).

- Plastic Really Fantastic

http://www.odt.co.nz/news/dunedin/121078/otago-man-makes-plastic-fantastic

- Port Chalmers Transition Town Public Transport Meeting

Port Chalmers Transition Town (PCTT) hosted a public meeting on 14 July to discuss how we can make public transport more accessible, and thereby increase public transport usage. Good public transport not only cuts greenhouse gases, but it also strengthens communities by providing access to services, recreation and learning both in Port and in Dunedin.

Thirty-two people attended this intense but positive meeting. Please see the report-from-public-transport-meeting-wednesday-14-july-v2.

- Dunedin’s Fuel Consumption Under Review

Dunedin residents could this week find themselves participating in a research project that could guide planning for the city over the next quarter of a century.

The DCC has commissioned a Peak Oil vulnerability analysis, to stand alongside a Climate Change report, to help it identify associated challenges and opportunities for a more sustainable future for Dunedin through the city’s Risk Management System.

Dr Susan Krumdieck, from EAST Research Consultants based at Canterbury University, will be in Dunedin this week with her team of researchers conducting surveys on our travel habits, our private fuel consumption and vehicle dependence and the effect of petrol prices on our lives!

Assisted by Dr Bob Lloyd from Otago University, Dr Krumdieck will also assess the likely impact of rising oil prices on total industry through a series of interviews with “energy vulnerable” operators.
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Tēnā koutou katoa,

Suze Keith (SDC’s newsletter compiler)

dk.sk@xtra.co.nz

Janet Brady (SDC’s secretary)

secretary@sustainabledunedincity.org.nz

Sustainable Dunedin City Inc.

http://www.sustainabledunedincity.org.nz/

PO Box 8061, North East Valley, Dunedin

August 26, 2010
12:30 am	to	10:30 am

Thursday 26th August from 5.30pm in the Back Room of Filadelfios at the Gardens

GREENDRINKS Dunedin provides an opportunity for everyone interested in sustainability and the environment to meet in a relaxed setting. It is organised in Dunedin by the Sustainable Dunedin City Society and is part of GreenDrinks International, a social networking movement.

We meet on the last Thursday of each month from 5.30pm at Filadelfios. Each month a different community group hosts a theme. Everyone interested very welcome. Please bring a friend!

THEME THIS MONTH: Words on a Wing – Get ready for Conservation Week!

GreenDrinks is hosted this month by the Department of Conservation.

We’ll ask people to work together to make cardboard kakapo (that paper feathers will be attached to) that we’ll use during conservation week for the ‘Words on a Wing’ initiative. And we’ll invite people to write their own message about biodiversity on a feather. The messages will then be gathered up and taken to the Convention on Biological Diversity’s 10th Conference of the Parties (COP) meeting in Japan in October. See www.doc.govt.nz/words-on-a-wing.
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About GreenDrinks
GreenDrinks is an international movement to support informal networking among people who work in the environmental field. To find out more about GreenDrinks International go to www.greendrinks.org.

About Sustainable Dunedin City

GreenDrinks Dunedin is organised by the Sustainable Dunedin City Society and is made up of persons who are interested in the issues of climate change, declining energy security and sustainability, as they affect Dunedin City. The Society is not affiliated with any political party and aims to facilitate a positive, secure and sustainable future for Dunedin City in the face of challenges posed by climate change, declining energy security, and unsustainable resource use.. For more information or to join go to www.sustainabledunedincity.org.nz or email secretary@sustainabledunedincity.org.nz.
To get on the GreenDrinks Dunedin elist - or to host a GreenDrinks email secretary@sustainabledunedincity.org.nz

Dear Members,

There are only two events you need to make it to this fortnight – our Annual General Meeting and GreenDrinks!

NEXT Wednesday 25 August at 7pm - SUSTAINABLE DUNEDIN CITY AGM

Community Church, corner of Filleul and St Andrew’s Streets

Climate change and peak oil will bring challenges to Dunedin and its environs. Come and help us develop positive ideas in a 5-year plan of action!

We’re calling for nominations for the following positions:

* 2 Co-chairs
* Secretary
* Treasurer
* Newsletter-Editor-in-Chief
* News/Media Spokesperson
* General Committee Members.

Send nominations to jocelyn.harris@otago.ac.nz by 5pm on 19 August.

(Each candidate needs be proposed and seconded in writing by Members and the completed nomination will be delivered to the Secretary).

We would love to hear your ideas, and invite you to join us. Janet may even do some of her fabulous baking. Please note that in order to be a member, you need to pay your subs – please go to our website to see how easy it is – www.sustainabledunedincity.org.nz

NEXT Thursday 26th August from 5.30pm, GREENDRINKS Dunedin in the Back Room of Filadelfios at the Gardens

GREENDRINKS Dunedin provides an opportunity for everyone interested in sustainability and the environment to meet in a relaxed setting. It is organised in Dunedin by the Sustainable Dunedin City Society and is part of GreenDrinks International, a social networking movement.

We meet on the last Thursday of each month from 5.30pm at Filadelfios. Each month a different community group hosts a theme. Everyone interested very welcome. Please bring a friend!

THEME THIS MONTH: Words on a Wing – Get ready for Conservation Week!

GreenDrinks is hosted this month by the Department of Conservation.

We’ll ask people to work together to make cardboard kakapo (that paper feathers will be attached to) that we’ll use during conservation week for the ‘Words on a Wing’ initiative. And we’ll invite people to write their own message about biodiversity on a feather. The messages will then be gathered up and taken to the Convention on Biological Diversity’s 10th Conference of the Parties (COP) meeting in Japan in October. See www.doc.govt.nz/words-on-a-wing.

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About GreenDrinks

GreenDrinks is an international movement to support informal networking among people who work in the environmental field. To find out more about GreenDrinks International go to www.greendrinks.org. To get on the GreenDrinks Dunedin elist - or to host a GreenDrinks - please contact Maureen on mhoward@slingshot.co.nz.

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Tēnā koutou katoa,

Suze Keith (SDC’s newsletter compiler)

dk.sk@xtra.co.nz

Janet Brady (SDC’s secretary)

secretary@sustainabledunedincity.org.nz

Sustainable Dunedin City Inc.

http://www.sustainabledunedincity.org.nz/

PO Box 8061, North East Valley, Dunedin

Dear Members,

Come one come all to the Sustainable Dunedin City AGM Wednesday 25 August at 7pm! We will be developing our strategy for the next five years, and really want your input. New members welcome for the committee. We’ll give you more details closer to the time – in the meantime – book it in your diary / i-pad / cell / wall planner / laptop – it’ll be great to see you there.

And once you’ve done that, check out http://www.biggreenchallenge.co.nz/ - committee members Nick, Paul and Jinty have been working hard to get the BigGreenChallenge off the ground.

It’s the next generation 350.org day – a global working bee – this is YOUR opportunity to get that community project off the ground. SDC has the money, the time AND the expertise to help you out – so what are you waiting for! Send in the application form by August 27 and we’ll be in touch.

Please let others know about the BigGreenChallenge – spread the word.

Read on!

1. Upcoming Sustainable Dunedin City Events and Projects

i) Wednesday, August 25, 7pm – Sustainable Dunedin City Annual General Meeting

ii) Vodafone World of Difference Update from SDC staffer, Nick Holmes

iii) Applications due Friday, August 27 - Big Green Challenge

2. Upcoming Sustainability Events and Courses

- THIS Friday, August 6, 2pm – 4pm - Preparing for an Uncertain Future: Regional Energy Resilience in Canterbury

- THIS Friday, August 6, 12 noon - HortTalk at the Botanic Garden, Another World Wide Web – exploring the soil food web

- THIS Saturday, August 7, 9am – 4pm - Yellow-eyed Penguin Symposium

- August 10 – 12, 6th Australia – New Zealand Climate Change & Business Conference

- Saturday, September 11, 2 – 3.30pm, Otago Polytechnic Living Campus Gardens

Composting Demonstration Workshop

- CONSULTATION ON NOW – submissions due 5pm, Thursday, September 2 - New Zealand Energy Strategies

- September 12 – 19 - Conservation Week

- September 22 – World Carfree Day

- November 15 – 16 - Signs of Change - A national e-conference showcasing transition to sustainability

3. Dunedin Sustainability in Action!- The Outlook for Someday

- Otago Farmers Market – Community Stall

- Kerbside Collection Service for Dunedin

- World of Difference Ripple Programme

- Mining & Schedule 4 Conservation Lands

- INSPIRING! Check out Transport for London’s new borrow a bike system

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1. Upcoming SDC Events and Projects

SDC is driven by member ideas and volunteer man-power, so if you have an idea for an event or project you’d like SDC to run, or you’d like to run under the SDC umbrella, please let us know secretary@sustainabledunedincity.org.nz. This section also signposts who to contact if you’re keen to help out with a particular event/project.

i) Wednesday, August 25, 7pm – Sustainable Dunedin City Annual General Meeting

ii) Vodafone World of Difference Update from SDC staffer, Nick Holmes

Check it out at - http://foundation.vodafone.co.nz/author/nick-holmes

iii) Applications due Friday, August 27 - Big Green Challenge

On October 10 2010, thousands of communities all over the world will be getting to work as part of a Global Climate Working Bee organised by 350.org: the biggest DIY event the world has ever seen!

To support this day, Sustainable Dunedin City Inc. has money, time and expertise to offer to help your organisation, business, school or group get its community project off the ground.

In particular, we’re interested in projects focused on the areas of water, transport, energy and food. But let us know if you’ve got an awesome project that doesn’t fit our categories!

Our aim is to connect the dots in our community; to join up those who need things, with those who can provide! And we have a bit of money to help out too.

You might also like to send the poster around your networks - and we’re on Facebook too, so be a fan of our page!

Applications close 5pm Friday August 27th.

We look forward to seeing yours!

2. Upcoming Sustainability Events and Courses

We’d love to advertise your sustainability-related event or course - please send contributions in to dk.sk@xtra.co.nz.

i) THIS Friday, August 6, 2pm – 4pm - Preparing for an Uncertain Future: Regional Energy Resilience in Canterbury, University of Otago, Room 314 (Seminar Room), 3rd Floor, Science III Building, 730 Cumberland Street

Energy Studies Programme Seminar Series presented by Dr Mike O’Connell, Energy Policy Analyst, Canterbury. See more at http://www.otago.ac.nz/news/events/otago009774.html

ii) THIS Friday, August 6, 12 noon - HortTalk at the Botanic Garden, Another World Wide Web – exploring the soil food web, Cherryl Prew, Lab Director, Soil Foodweb Institute of New Zealand, Botanic Garden Centre, Upper Lovelock Avenue

Cherryl will dig deep into the fascinating world beneath our feet and explain the important interactions between the billion microorganisms found in one teaspoon of healthy soil and explain why healthy soil makes healthy food.

iii) THIS Saturday, August 7, 9am – 4pm - Yellow-eyed Penguin Symposium, Seminar Room Ground Floor, University College, Union Street East, Dunedin.

The annual symposium is a community event where people and organisations that work with yellow-eyed penguins can report on their year’s activities. Invited speakers address the symposium in the afternoon with the theme ‘International Year of Biodiversity’.

Registrations essential, and can be made through the Yellow-eyed Penguin Trust yeptrust@gmail.com or phone 479 0011 Coast: $30

iv) August 10 – 12, 6th Australia – New Zealand Climate Change & Business Conference

Christiana Figueres, Executive Secretary of the UNFCCC, will be speaking at the opening of the
6th Australia-New Zealand Climate Change & Business Conference (10-12 August, Sydney).  Ms Figueres will provide a keynote address outlining progress in international negotiations post Copenhagen and expectations for Mexico.

Only recently taking the office of Executive Secretary, Ms Figureres will speak via live video-link from Bonn, Germany, as part of the official opening of the Conference with the welcome presented by the Hon Kristina Keneally, Premier of New South Wales.

Click HERE to view the latest program.

http://www.climateandbusiness.com/index.cfm

v)Composting Demonstration Workshop

Regular outdoor composting, Bokashi, Food Composters, Worm Farms with Michelle Ritchue from Organic by Design

Maximum 20 participants. RSVP to Customer Service Centre, DCC on 477 4000 by August 27.

vi) CONSULTATION ON NOW – submissions due 5pm, Thursday, September 2 - New Zealand Energy Strategies

The New Zealand Energy Strategy sets the strategic direction of the energy sector and the role energy will play in the New Zealand economy.

The Government is currently consulting on a draft New Zealand Energy Strategy.  Replacing the 2007 energy strategy, the strategy has been updated to align with current government energy policy priorities and to reflect a stronger focus on economic development.

At the same time the Government is consulting on a draft New Zealand Energy Efficiency and Conservation Strategy, a companion strategy specifically focused on the promotion of energy efficiency, conservation and renewable energy.

You are invited to provide your feedback on either or both strategies by 5.00pm, Thursday 2 September 2010. When writing your submission, there are particular questions you might consider responding to - available here.

http://www.med.govt.nz/templates/ContentTopicSummary____19431.aspx

vii) September 12 – 19 - Conservation Week

This year the Department of Conservation is inviting everyone to show how they ‘Love NZ’ by participating in one or more of the many events planned for the week. Conservation Week ‘Love NZ’ is September 12-19. Coastal Otago events so far… include awards, talks, walks and planting.

Please get in touch with either David Mules dmules@doc.govt.nz or Liz Sherwood lsherwood@doc.govt.nz  if you and your group would like to run an event to show how you love NZ. More information will be available over the next few weeks.

TOROA AWARD - Coastal Otago Schools Conservation Award

To celebrate Conservation Week, Otago Peninsula Trust and Department of Conservation have launched a conservation award for schools!

The TOROA AWARD is open to all schools Year 1-13 in Coastal Otago (that’s Dunedin City, Clutha District, and Waitaki District south of Waitaki River and inland to Duntroon). Schools, classes or individuals can apply, or you may want to nominate a group/individual on their behalf.

TOROA AWARD aims:

* To acknowledge the good work that students are doing for conservation
* To encourage other students/classes/groups/schools to get more involved in conservation
* To encourage schools to become actively involved with their community, contribute to the well-being of NZ, and explore future-focused issues like sustainability and conservation.

Application forms are online at www.school.albatross.org.nz and can be submitted electronically or by post by August 30, 2010

Enquiries to Sally Carson Ph 03 479 5842 education@school.albatross.co.nz or Liz Sherwood Ph 03 474 7094 lsherwood@doc.govt.n

viii) September 22 – World Carfree Day

Every September 22, people from around the world get together in the streets, intersections, and neighbourhood blocks to remind the world that we don’t have to accept our car-dominated society.

But we do not want just one day of celebration and then a return to “normal” life. When people get out of their cars, they should stay out of their cars. It is up to us, it is up to our cities, and our governments to help create permanent change to benefit pedestrians, cyclists, and other people who do not drive cars.

Let World Carfree Day be a showcase for just how our cities might look like, feel like, and sound like without cars…365 days a year.

http://www.worldcarfree.net/wcfd/

ix) November 15 – 16 - Signs of Change - A national e-conference showcasing transition to sustainability

This Call for Signs of Change is going out to networks of people who might want to join together and have a discussion about new directions.  I am pleased to announce a first-of-a-kind national conference that will feature evidence from all walks of life that there is a choice about the future and that some are making it.

We are launching our conference website www.signsofchange.org.nz and invite you to visit and consider if you would like to attend your closest local node, or if you could report on change you have seen or been a part of that provides a model of what the future we hope for might look like.  Please pass on to anyone you think might be interested.

Best Regards,

Susan

Dr. Susan Krumdieck

Associate Professor

Department of Mechanical Engineering

University of Canterbury
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3. Dunedin Sustainability in Action!

This section is about some of the inspirational things happening in our community, as well as ’sustainability’ volunteer opportunities in and around Dunedin.  If you’ve got a project you need more hands for (or even a project that needs hands to get started!), or a group you think our members may like to join, send me a paragraph…and don’t forget your contact details.  And if you’re doing something inspirational, or know of someone that is, let me know (dk.sk@xtra.co.nz).

The Outlook for Someday

Make a short film, on any camera you like, any genre you like, any length up to 5 minutes – The Sustainability Film Challenge for Young New Zealanders

http://www.theoutlookforsomeday.net/

Otago Farmers Market – Community Stall

The Otago Farmers Market has a space available for Community Groups to promote who they are, what they do and to undertake fundraising. Community Groups need to be on site at 7:15am and are required to stay until the market closes at 12:30pm. The site is available for any local Otago Group to be used once a year. There is no fee for the site. The Group needs to provide its own tables, chairs and any shelter that may be required. Please contact the Market Manager, Lesley Cox, 0274636275, or email her on mm@otagofarmersmarket.org.nz

Kerbside Collection Service for Dunedin

Congrats to DCC! Dunedin residents are to get a significantly expanded kerbside collection service that will see the introduction of wheelie bins, special fortnightly collections for glass only and an alternating fortnightly collection of a greater range of recyclable materials.

http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/news/july-2010/new-kerbside-collection-service-for-dunedin-contracts-awarded,-start-date-announced.

World of Difference Ripple Programme

The Ripple programme is a 3-month capacity building paid placement at one of the Vodafone Foundation’s youth charity partners. With 25 positions available, we match each job role to suit your personality and skill set. So are you a HAND, HEART or MIND person?

http://foundation.vodafone.co.nz/lendyourself

4. Food for Thought

Do you know of an amazing podcast everyone should listen to?  An article or a blog or a site that would be of interest to all SDC members?  Send me a short explanation and the link (dk.sk@xtra.co.nz), and we’ll add it in here.  Links preferable to attachments, because they tend to fill up everyone’s inboxes.

- Mining & Schedule 4 Conservation Lands

On July 20 the Government made an announcement regarding its consultation on removing land from Schedule 4 to make it available for mining – here’s what they said –

http://www.med.govt.nz/templates/StandardSummary____44101.aspx

And here’s what the Environmental Defence Society said –

The Environmental Defence Society has congratulated the Government for its decisions regarding Schedule 4 of the Crown Minerals Act which have just been formally announced.

“We are delighted by the u-turn and consider it demonstrates a new green awareness by the National-led Government which is most welcome,” said EDS Chairman Gary Taylor.

“A lot of effort has gone into explaining the legal and environmental implications of this decision. It appears that someone was listening. Notwithstanding the earlier spin from Crown Minerals Division and Straterra, the industry lobby group in support of change, we have a good outcome.

“In my view the decision to lock down all National Parks from future mining is especially noteworthy and principled. We now have a national consensus, a compact between Government and the people that recognises the primacy of conservation in all our National Parks. It means we won’t have to argue about mining in National Parks again.

“It is also excellent that mining on the Coromandel Peninsula north of the Kopu-Hikuai Road and on Great Barrier Island is off the agenda. Both proposals were extremely controversial.

“Some may say that we still potentially have mining in the Conservation estate. Yes we do and that has always been the case outside of Schedule 4 land. But any mining proposals in those lower value areas will still have to pass the hurdle of the Resource Management Act on a case-by-case basis. I note that some of the areas to be surveyed in Northland have been rejected for prospecting in the past so there are no automatic rights implied there.

“Some may say that this is an embarrassing back-down by the Government. I think it shows a Government that is listening and is becoming more environmentally aware as it matures in office. That is a very good thing.

“We have a large number of very important environmental reforms underway at present and this decision bodes well for good outcomes from those processes. They include devising an effective environmental regime for mining and oil exploration in the EEZ so that environmental disasters won’t occur there.

“The only aspect of the Schedule 4 announcement that is unacceptable, is giving the Minister of Energy joint decision-making power with the Minister of Conservation over access to non-Schedule 4 Conservation land. That proposal will need careful scrutiny at the select committee stage.

“I’m really delighted and encouraged by this decision. To me it signals a new direction on environmental issues by the Government,” Mr Taylor concluded.

- INSPIRING! Check out Transport for London’s new borrow a bike system -

http://www.tfl.gov.uk/roadusers/cycling/11598.aspx

And did you hear the great interview about the history of utilitarian cycling and current trends on Sunday morning with Chris Whitter, Radio New Zealand – if not, here’s the link http://www.radionz.co.nz/national/programmes/sunday. It was run as the ‘Ideas’ programme.

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Tēnā koutou katoa,

Suze Keith (SDC’s newsletter compiler)

dk.sk@xtra.co.nz

Janet Brady (SDC’s secretary)

secretary@sustainabledunedincity.org.nz

Sustainable Dunedin City Inc.

PO Box 8061, North East Valley, Dunedin

Dear Members,

Congrats to Otago Polytechnic Centre for Sustainable Practice manager, Steve Henry, on receiving a funding boost as a result of an extension to the Government’s grants scheme.

A move to extend the Government’s year-old biodiesel grants scheme, which offers a 42.5c-a-litre subsidy, to cover diesel blends including more than 20% biodiesel has made supplying 100% biodiesel in both markets even more attractive.

Pure biodiesel could be sold from pumps in Dunedin and Queenstown after a funding boost from the Government, Steve, who co-ordinating two biodiesel supply consortiums says.

Biodiesel blend sales have surpassed expectations in Queenstown and may soon be bolstered by pumps in central Dunedin and Green Island.

Find out more about the Centre for Sustainable Practice in their Autumn Newsletter -

http://www.otagopolytechnic.ac.nz/fileadmin/DepartmentalResources/Academic/CSP/CSP_Newsletter_Autumn_2010.mht

Read on!

1. Upcoming Sustainability Events and Courses

- THIS Wednesday, July 21, 1pm - What determines community acceptance of climate change policies? Psychology Departmental Seminar, Archway 2 Lecture Theatre, University of Otago

- THIS Wednesday July 21, 5.30 pm - Justice and the Allocation of Benefits from Water: A social psychological approach, Professor Geoff Syme Professor of Planning, Edith Cowan University, St David Lecture Theatre, University of Otago

- THIS Friday July 23, 2pm – 4pm - Action for Sustainable Buildings - A UK/NZ Comparison

- NEXT THURSDAY July 29 from 5.30pm - GREENDRINKS Dunedin in the Back Room of Filadelfios at the Gardens

- Sunday, August 1 (and the first Sunday of every month) - Coast Road Market

- Friday, August 6, 12 noon - HortTalk at the Botanic Garden, Another World Wide Web – exploring the soil food web

- August 10 – 12, 6th Australia – New Zealand Climate Change & Business Conference

- Friday, August 13, 12 - 1pm - free online interactive webinar, Climate Change and the Challenge of Science Communication

- Saturday, September 11, 2 – 3.30pm, Otago Polytechnic Living Campus Gardens

Composting Demonstration Workshop

- Open for entries: Holcim Awards for Sustainable Construction

2. Dunedin Sustainability in Action!

- Dunedin City Council – Current Consultations

- A presentation at May’s Business for Change gathering by Peter Lewis of ByFusion -Recycled plastic blocks

3. Food for Thought

- Eco warrior’s Pacific journey shows how ‘dumb plastic’ is killing our seas

- The Water Thieves by Sam Mahon

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1. Upcoming Sustainability Events and Courses

Another good calendar for sustainability-related events around Dunedin can be found at http://dect.org.nz/modules/extcal/calendar.php. We’d love to advertise your sustainability-related event or course - please send contributions in to dk.sk@xtra.co.nz.

- THIS Wednesday, July 21, 1pm - What determines community acceptance of climate change policies? Psychology Departmental Seminar, Archway 2 Lecture Theatre, University of Otago

Professor Geoff Syme, Professor of Planning, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia

Geoff Syme graduated with a PhD in Psychology from the University of Canterbury in 1973. He has had 35 years experience in social research in relation to environmental management generally, including water resources management, evaluation of conservation policies and regional governance issues.

He has a particular interest in the social psychology of justice as it relates to resource allocation decisions and environmental policy outcomes. For the past decade he has acted as a Program Leader\Research Director of multidisciplinary groups stationed in a variety of cities in Australia for CSIRO Land and Water.

Currently he is Professor of Planning at Edith Cowan University. He has published approximately 120 journal articles and book chapters in the area of community and institutional responses to water resources management, uncertainty in decision making and technological assessment as well as the role of ethics and values in environmental protection and management. He recently undertook a community investigation into acceptance of potential climate change policies in Western Australia on behalf of the WA Office of Climate Change.

Abstract:

A survey was conducted to investigate the determinants of support for climate change policies in Western Australia. There was significant support for climate policies in a variety of areas, although farmers were less supportive than other members of the community. A Structural Equation modeling approach showed that strength of attitudes towards climate change issues was the only direct predictor of policy support.

Other significant indirect influence was shown for awareness of the consequences of climate change, risk perceptions and values and ethics. Knowledge of climate change issues indirectly affected all variables in the model. Attitudes towards policies in one policy area correlated with those in others. The scores on the knowledge scale showed that there was significant room for improvement and this could benefit support for new policies. Finally, there was a low level of trust in government and industry that may be of concern as more stringent policies are introduced.

- THIS Wednesday July 21 at 5.30 pm - Justice and the Allocation of Benefits from Water: A social psychological approach, Professor Geoff Syme Professor of Planning, Edith Cowan University, St David Lecture Theatre, University of Otago

Sponsored by the NZ Psychological Society

As our understanding of Australasia’s water resource limitations grows, the issues become more complex and contested.

There are two important questions - What exactly are we allocating? How can we judge the justice of this allocation?

The same quantity of water can deliver multiple benefits as it moves through a catchment, which makes it a difficult commodity for economic analysis. So water resource negotiations need to move from a quantity (or gigalitre) approach to one of understanding the benefits that alternative water allocation policies can bring.

- THIS Friday July 23, 2pm – 4pm - Action for Sustainable Buildings - A UK/NZ Comparison, Mr Jake Roos - Senior Advisor Climate Change and Energy, Room 314, 3rd Floor, Science III Building, University of Otago

Jake Roos has recently returned from the UK where he was the lead officer on climate change and energy issues for Uttlesford District Council in Essex. He graduated with a MAppSc in Energy Management from the University of Otago Energy Studies Programme in 2004.

The United Kingdom has ambitious plans to upgrade its existing building stock and build ‘zero carbon’ new homes from 2016, and work towards these goals are well underway. Supporting this effort is a wide range of regulation, financial incentives, certification schemes, research, promotion and advice provision by a variety of actors. New Zealand has begun its own upgrade programme for housing comparatively recently. This talk will explore the similarities and differences between the drive towards sustainable buildings in both countries and what New Zealand can learn from the UK, illustrated with examples from the speaker’s direct experiences working in both countries.

- NEXT THURSDAY July 29 from 5.30pm - GREENDRINKS Dunedin in the Back Room of Filadelfios at the Gardens

GREENDRINKS Dunedin provides an opportunity for everyone interested in sustainability and the environment to meet in a relaxed setting. It is organised in Dunedin by the Sustainable Dunedin City Society and is part of GreenDrinks International, a social networking movement.

We meet on the last Thursday of each month from 5.30pm at Filadelfios. Each month a different community group hosts a theme. Everyone interested very welcome. Please bring a friend!

THEME THIS MONTH: St. Martin / Quarantine Island | Kamau Taurua

GreenDrinks is hosted this month by the St. Martin Island Community, who will speak about the Island, its history, the community, and the projects currently underway on this gem in the middle of our harbour.
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About the St. Martin Island Community

The Community is a group of volunteers who love the island and are commited to teasuring its unique wilderness and wildlife, restoring native vegetation, preserving historical remains, and providing a welcome to visitors. Check out www.theisland.org.nz for more details.

About GreenDrinks
GreenDrinks is an international movement to support informal networking among people who work in the environmental field. To find out more about GreenDrinks International go to www.greendrinks.org.

About Sustainable Dunedin City
GreenDrinks Dunedin is organised by Sustainable Dunedin City. SDC is made up of persons who are intererested in the issues of climate change, declining energy security and sustainability, as they affect Dunedin city. The society is not affiliated with any political party and aims to facilitate a positive, secure and sustainable future for Dunedin in the face of challenges posed by climate change, declining energy security, and unsustainable resource use.
For more information or to join go to www.sustainabledunedincity.org.nz or email secretary@sustainabledunedincity.org.nz. To get on the GreenDrinks Dunedin elist - or to host a GreenDrinks - please contact Jinty on jintymactavish@gmail.com.

If you would like to be unsubscribed from this list please email me at jintymactavish@gmail.com.

Thanks, Jinty MacTavish, Sustainable Dunedin City committee member.

- Sunday, August 1 (and the first Sunday of every month) - Coast Road Market

Coast Road Market is alive and well! The market hasn’t skipped a beat (except for Easter Sunday) since it began nearly two years ago in August 2008.

The market is held on the first Sunday of every month, rain or shine, in the grounds of Coast Road Retreat, alongside the Art Shed, at 728 Coast Road, Seacliff. The next market is on Sunday the 1st of August - we will be celebrating our second birthday!

Coast Road Market is a unique blend of food, coffee, craft and clothes; local produce, plants, preserves, pakoras, prints, patches, portraits and paintings; bric a brac, books, toys and more!!

It’s a free market so if you would like to have a stall, come along before 11am to set up. Or you can phone us first on 465 7990 with any queries.

The Art Shed is open during the market (or by appointment 027 6995390). This month you can find out about upcoming beginner woodblock printing workshops. There is a new bird on the block as well as some fresh oil paintings. Original art from $1!

- Friday, August 6, 12 noon - HortTalk at the Botanic Garden, Another World Wide Web – exploring the soil food web, Cherryl Prew, Lab Director, Soil Foodweb Institute of New Zealand, Botanic Garden Centre, Upper Lovelock Avenue

Cherryl will dig deep into the fascinating world beneath our feet and explain the important interactions between the billion microorganisms found in one teaspoon of healthy soil and explain why healthy soil makes healthy food.

- August 10 – 12, 6th Australia – New Zealand Climate Change & Business Conference

ONLY 4 WEEKS TO GO! ONLINE REGISTRATION IS AVAILABLE NOW.

Click HERE to view the latest program.

The 2010 conference will focus on how business is moving forward on climate change response in a time of policy uncertainty. Plenary sessions will examine:

* The potential for reduced emissions from key sectors: how and how much?
* Australian and New Zealand policy response to business requirements
* What is needed to unlock and leverage investment in low emissions technology
* Adaptation as a priority response
* The international policy framework and the potential impact on this region
* Inside China and the USA
* The power of complementary measures: what’s working internationally
* Climate change science and communicating the challenge

http://www.climateandbusiness.com/index.cfm

- Friday, August 13th, 12 - 1pm - free online interactive webinar, Climate Change and the Challenge of Science Communication

“Science is what we do to keep us from lying to ourselves” Richard Feynman

“There is only one climategate story of any significance, and it is the story of how the press were manipulated to take a middle of the road position.” Michael Tobis, PhD

Featuring:

Michael Tobis, PhD, Research Scientist Associate, University of Texas

Institute for Geophysics, Austin Texas, USA

Author of the Blog: Only in It for the Gold

For more information please see attached info or email hank.weiss@otago.ac.nz

- Saturday, September 11, 2 – 3.30pm, Otago Polytechnic Living Campus Gardens

Composting Demonstration Workshop

Regular outdoor composting, Bokashi, Food Composters, Worm Farms with Michelle Ritchue from Organic by Design

Maximum 20 participants. RSVP to Customer Service Centre, DCC on 477 4000 by August 27.

- Open for entries: Holcim Awards for Sustainable Construction

Zurich/Switzerland, July 1, 2010 – The 3rd International Holcim Awards competition for projects and visions in sustainable construction offers a total of USD 2 million in prize money and is open to: sustainable building and civil engineering works; landscape, urban design and infrastructure projects; and materials, products and construction technologies. Entries must be submitted online at www.holcimawards.org by March 23, 2011.

In addition to construction projects at an advanced stage of design, the competition seeks visions and ideas for the “Next Generation” category, open to student projects created within university programs at final year bachelor level or above (including master’s and PhD).

The Holcim Awards are comprised of five regional competitions in 2010/11 and the global phase in 2012. Juries include internationally renowned architects and academics. A full list of jury members is available at: www.holcimawards.org/jury

Submissions in both categories are evaluated using the “target issues” for sustainable construction. For step-by-step instructions on how to participate in the competition as well as examples of former winning projects see: www.holcimawards.org

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2. Dunedin Sustainability in Action!

This section is about some of the inspirational things happening in our community, as well as ’sustainability’ volunteer opportunities in and around Dunedin. If you’ve got a project you need more hands for (or even a project that needs hands to get started!), or a group you think our members may like to join, send me a paragraph…and don’t forget your contact details. And if you’re doing something inspirational, or know of someone that is, let me know (dk.sk@xtra.co.nz).

- Dunedin City Council – Current Consultations

Playground Improvement - Corstorphine and South Coast/Brighton (Round One Consultation) – due 9.8.10

Partial Review of the Ocean Beach Domain Management Plan – due 6.8.10

Future of Carisbrook – due 26.7.10

- Notes from a presentation at May’s Business for Change gathering by Peter Lewis of ByFusion -Recycled plastic blocks

• Recycle plastic in its entirety. Created a block out of recycled plastics.

* Brought a 6kg block to build retaining walls, anything (down to 60% of original height with 100% memory.)
* Technology, shreds it, washes it, shapes it to any shape
* Very durable, easy to create, costs about $.20 to create one block, holds an expansion area for heat expansion, holds 6 metres of water, or cover with a wire mesh

• To get up and running:

Waste from construction companies and local residents - requires curb-side pick up.

Capital - $1.65 million to get a plant up and running

• There is potential to get help from the council to collect waste

• Demonstrations on YouTube: Byfusion Introduction - watch here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LNS3UhaDV5c

• Byfusion Building Example

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Wr0zjCxBy8&feature=channel

3. Food for Thought

Do you know of an amazing podcast everyone should listen to? An article or a blog or a site that would be of interest to all SDC members? Send me a short explanation and the link (dk.sk@xtra.co.nz), and we’ll add it in here. Links preferable to attachments, because they tend to fill up everyone’s inboxes.

- Eco warrior’s Pacific journey shows how ‘dumb plastic’ is killing our seas

David de Rothschild set out on a mammoth ocean crossing aboard his recycled yacht to highlight pollution of Earth’s waters – but even he was shocked by what he found.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2010/jul/11/plastiki-rothschild-plastic-bottle-catamaran?&CMP=EMCENVEML1273

- The Water Thieves by Sam Mahon

To be honest, I haven’t read this, but it sounded very interesting and topical –

“The Waitohi is our nearest river. It’s where we’d go on summer days too hot for work…We basked in cool water, grinning at each other as it slipped around our chins…This was a no-man’s paradise until…until the pumps went down and trenches opened up the earth…to mine the river when, indignant, she slipped at last beneath the stones to hide.”

http://www.longacre.co.nz/books/WaterThieves.html

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Tēnā koutou katoa,

Suze Keith (SDC’s newsletter compiler)

dk.sk@xtra.co.nz

Janet Brady (SDC’s secretary)

secretary@sustainabledunedincity.org.nz

Sustainable Dunedin City Inc.

PO Box 8061, North East Valley, Dunedin