ECOLOGY>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Our Ecology Group has now changed its name to "SAVE THE PLANET". Penarth Cytun – The Council of Churches Ecology Group (Help our Planet) Please reply to: Tricia Griffiths (Chair) Waltham House Bradford Place Penarth CF 64 1AG Tel: 029 20 707828 Email: TriciaGrffths@aol.com June 2007 Help our Planet I am writing on behalf of Penarth Cytun to introduce a newly formed group called Help Our Planet. This was formerly known as the Ecology Group. In common with many others, we recognise that there is much anxiety around regarding the damage God’s planet is undergoing as a result of global warming. The Help our Planet group came together in acceptance of our responsibility as Christians to try to help with this major, world-threatening situation. In the midst of so much information about global warming, is there something specific, different and helpful that Christians working together can do? We believe that if churches work together we can make a small, but significant impact. We have thought about the issues widely and come up with two ideas: • Provide Penarth Cytun members with a bimonthly suggestion about 1 aspect of changing our lives in a way that would gradually help us to reduce our carbon footprints, and live in a more creation-friendly way. These suggestions might be about the best ways to save water, how to take holidays in a kind-to-the earth way, or how to find the best value for money in a range of products that will reduce carbon emissions. • Encourage Church groups to consider how to reduce their impact on the environment by auditing the energy used in each place of worship and in meeting rooms. This has been done successfully by some of our members already. A simple audit form is attached for you to consider. As a group we are committed to the simple Christian principle of respect for the earth and for all Creation. ‘The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it’ (Psalm 24.1). The prayer we read at each meeting probably expresses our approach better than any other explanation. We look forward to hearing whether you welcome our ideas and if you are prepared to support us. Please let us know what you think by completing the attached slip, or phone me on the number above. Thank you. Yours sincerely Patricia Griffiths Chair Penarth Cytun Ecology Group (Help our Planet) Part of the ever-growing ‘Churches together in Wales’ movement, the Penarth Cytun Ecology Group came together, from a variety of Church backgrounds, to try to offer a specifically Christian dimension to the current Climate Change debate. It has taken on some of the work formerly undertaken by the original Ecology Group. We as members of ‘The Christian Family’ are as concerned as everyone else about Climate Change and the future of God’s Earth. That is why we decided to convene a forum for debate within which we could find ways of influencing others. One way that we thought we might influence change was by altering mindsets, through the use of a ‘Topical Tip’ in all of our various church newsletters. We have also offered to support Cytun members should they wish to carry out a buildings’ audit. If you can think of other ways of making a difference, or would like to join our group, please make contact with: Patricia Griffiths tel: 02920 707828, or through your own Cytun representative. In the meantime, here is our first ‘tip’ Spread the word… be an evangelist for climate change, and encourage friends and family to reduce their emissions. As a group we have adopted a prayer which has been used by Operation Noah (the UK Churches’ campaign on climate change) It was written by the Revd. David Pickering, Moderator of the Operation Noah Executive Committee and it reads: For the Earth’s sake, for our children’s sake, for God’s sake Oceans warming Ice caps melting Calming caring God Help us act to still the storm For now, for ever Storms destroying Chaos reigning Calming, caring God Help us act to still the storm For now, for ever Planet shaping Hope rising Calming, caring God Help us act to still the storm For now, for ever Printed with the kind permission of ‘Operation Noah’ Contact details for the Ecology Group: Chair: Tricia Griffiths Tel: 02920 707828 Helping people to go green gradually… Do you feel confused by all the information about climate change? Would you like to feel you were doing something Useful to reduce your own carbon ‘footprint’? Do you wish there was something you could do? If you said YES to any of these questions, look out for our simple ideas which, if adopted, will help you to help our planet. Every 2 months we will be distributing two green Ideas for inclusion in church bulletins/magazines (they May be altered according to what individual churches Think appropriate). Later on you might like to join Us in a joint service/meeting and make a simple Commitment with us to living a more planet-friendly life. Alone we cannot change everything, but as Christians with our belief in the sanctity God’s creation, we can do our bit.. And if you have ideas, we want to hear from you… Contact Tricia on 02920 707828 or speak to your Cytun rep. HELP OUR PLANET – TIPS FOR GOING GREEN GRADUALLY Cytun’s Ecology Group (Help our Planet) invites people to join them in their journey to become greener gradually…adopting even 1 of the tips will reduce our carbon footprint and help preserve our planet. Nov/Dec 2007 1 Transport • Cars Drive more smoothly & keep tyres at right pressures (saves petrol) If driving to work, try to take public transport once a week • Suggestion Is my journey really necessary? Could I ask for, or offer a lift? Could I dust off my bike? • Advantages to you save money on petrol – get fitter – make new friends! • Top web-site www.direct.gov.uk/en/Environmentalandgreenerliving • Glossary Carbon footprint – the effect of our lifestyle and actions on the environment • Ideas/Queries Tricia Griffiths (HOP Group) 02920 707828 or visit Cytun’s website: www.penarthcytun.co.uk 2. Energy at home • Lights Gradually change to energy-saving bulbs – become a switch off monitor! • Loft Insulation Ask the council (0800 512 012) • Hot water Could you safely turn down to 60c? • Heating Turn down 1c • Kettles Only fill to level needed • Suggestion Could wearing more clothes make up for the cooler house? • Advantages To me Smaller bills (up to 30%) Less ironing Less washing! • Top Website www.energysavingtrust.org.uk • Glossary Global warming/climate change – caused by build up of Greenhouse gasses (mostly carbon dioxide) which trap the The sun’s heat in the earth’s atmosphere. • Ideas/Queries Tricia Griffiths (HOP Group) 02920 707828 • Cytun’s Website www.penarthcytun.co.uk 3. Tip for the month…Jan/Feb HOP TIPS - Laundry a) Washing Turning to 30 degrees C uses up to 40% less electricity than washing at hotter temperatures. The average household uses the washing machine 274 times per year and by turning the thermostat down you can cook 1,000 meals in your microwave, make 2,500 cups of tea and watch 1,400 episodes of your favourite soap! • Top website: www.prnewsire.co.uk. • Think of using washing products low in phosphates (ideally less than 50%) or choose Eco brands 100% phosphate free (there is a wide range of Eco products available in supermarkets). RSPB sell low energy washing laundry balls to replace detergent. • Top websites: info@watersense.org and www.rspbshop.co.uk. • When renewing your washing machine, look for the Energy Saving Recommendation logo. The energy saved will make up for any extra money you pay in the shop. b) Drying • Dry your clothes naturally (whether outside or when the house is warmed through by central heating) – tumble driers use more energy than any other household appliance. Air drying once a week cuts CO2 emissions by 91 Kg per year. • If you have to us a tumble drier then ensure you clean the lint filter after every load as it uses more energy to dry clothes when it is trying to push hot air through the lint. You will save energy by storing up items for one big load (but don’t overfill the machine) rather than having to dry several smaller loads. Also, try to keep ironing to a minimum – hidden creases don’t matter! • If you need to replace your tumble drier look for one with a moisture sensor to reduce energy use and check for the Energy Saving Recommendation logo. • Top website: www.biggreenswitch.co.uk. • Advantages to you: save money on your electricity bill. • Read Ecclesiasticus 29.1. • Cytun’s website: www.penarthcytun.co.uk. HELP OUR PLANET – TIPS FOR GOING GREEN GRADUALLY 4. Tip for the month…March/April 2008 Food • Buying Buying locally reduces carbon produced by transporting food long distances & helps local economy. Seasonally produced food saves on transport. Fair trade products provide better wages & working conditions in Third World Buying fresh food reduces energy used on packing/production • Suggestions If we eat less meat more land is freed up for crops. Planning ahead means less trips to supermarkets (less use of car) Let’s walk to local shops if possible Imaginative use of leftovers can be fun (currently UK throws 1/3 of food bought away) • Advantages to you… More exercise walking to local shops Planning meals in advance & using leftovers could revolutionise your diet! • Top web-sites www.energysavingsecrets.co.uk/locallyproducedfoods www.lovefoodhatewaste.com • Glossary Food security Our long-term ability to feed ourselves • Ideas/queries Tricia Griffiths (HOP Group) 20920 707828 • The Bible says ‘The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to cultivate and take care of it….’ (Genesis 2: 15) • And finally… 50 years ago we spent 25% of our incomes in the UK on food. On average we now we spend 9%. • Cytun website: www.penarthcytun.co.uk HELP OUR PLANET – TIPS FOR GOING GREEN GRADUALLY Topic for the month May/June 2008 5 Plastic bags • What is the problem? On average bags are Used for 5 minutes, but they take 500 years to decompose 90% of marine litter is plastic and is a major hazard to wild life Producing, decomposing and disposing of bags increases greenhouse gases which contribute to global warming Plastic litter on beaches, riverbanks and in countryside is unsightly • Suggestions Take your own bags when you shop – lots available, - some v. attractive! Refuse plastic bags whenever possible and reuse any you have around Talk about the problem to others – people are really interested If you need plastic bags – look for biodegradable brands Think bag before leaving the house • Advantages to you… Less litter around – particularly on the beaches and in the countryside You are helping reduce the increase in landfill sites ‘Bags for life’ are less likely to tear & reusable bags can be stylish! • Top websites www.bbc.co.uk/dna/h2g2/A28808490 www.recyclenow.com • Glossary Bidegradable plastics – capable of decomposition, but not Suitable for landfill sites • The Bible says… The day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then with a roar the sky will vanish, the elements will catch fire and melt away, the earth and all that it contains will be burned up. (2 Peter: 3:10) • Ideas/queries Tricia Griffiths (HOP Group) 20920 707828) • And finally… UK uses 200 billion plastic bags a year (220 each) • Cytun website: www.penarthcytun.co.uk Short Version PLASTIC BAGS Plastic bags take 500 years to decompose. They litter the beaches & countryside and harm wild life. Try and use life-long bags and talk about the problem to others. The Bible says: ‘The day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then With a roar the sky will vanish, the elements will catch fire and melt away, the earth and all that it contains will be burned up’. (2 Peter 3:10) Penarth Cytun – Help our Planet Tips Topic for the month… 6 Energy-saving bulbs – use, safety and disposal • Basic information Energy-saving bulbs last 10 times longer than ordinary bulbs. They contain mercury, but within safe, legal limit of 5mg. They will be a legal requirement within 4 years (may be exemptions for people with skin complaints • Safety issues When replacing, ensure bulb is cool and handle by base If bulb breaks, open window for 20 – 30 minutes & leave room. Use gloves, dustpan & brush. Wrap up debris carefully, place in Plastic bag, seal and if possible mark (energy-saving bulb waste) Do not use vacuum cleaner (may spread particles) Never dispose of energy-saving bulbs with normal household waste – The Council Amenity Site in Sully disposes of them if delievered • Advantages to you… Use of each energy-saving bulb will save you around £7 a year 3 energy-saving bulbs in each house in UK would save enough energy to light UK street lights for a year Energy-saving bulbs do not produce strobe-like flickering • Top websites… www.recyclemore.co.uk www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/energy_saving_products www.allupandon.co.uk/lighting/information • Glossary CFLi – compact fluorescent light bulbs • The Bible says… A good man leaves an inheritance for his children’s children (Proverbs 13:22) • Ideas/queries Tricia Griffiths (HOP Group) 02920 70782 • Cytun website www.penarthcytun.co.uk Short version Energy-saving bulbs Last 10 times longer than ordinary bulbs – using 1 will save £7 a year – 3 per household would save enough energy to light all streets in UK. Energy-saving bulbs contain mercury but within safe, legal limit of 5mg. If Energy-saving bulb breaks always: • Open windows and leave room for 30 minutes • don’t use vacuum cleaner – clear with dustpan & brush • wrap up debris and place in plastic bag – never put waste with general household waste – local council has to provide means of disposal The Bible says…’A good man leaves an inheritance for his children’s children’ (Proberbs 13:22) Penarth Cytun – Help our Planet Topics Topic for the month 7 Holidays - too late for this year, but perhaps a good time to start thinking about next year…. • What is the problem? The big is issue is about flying and carbon dioxide emissions- 4 people going to Australia has same impact on climate as heating a 3 bed house for 10 years We now take flying for granted and it is hard to contemplate giving Up what are often very cheap flights A return flight to New York produces 1.56 tonnes of CO2 • Suggestions Think about alternative holidays – in UK perhaps. Good ideas re green holidays on net (e.g. noflights.com) Go by rail – Eurostar (train to Europe) produces 1/10th of co2 produced by flying Pay for carbon offsetting. £10 buys 1 tree which helps to offsets return flight to USA. Very important to check out reliability of carbon offsetting companies – look for those that carry UN approved CERs (Certified emissions reductions) • Advantages to you Thinking ‘out of the box’ about holidays may be exciting and healthier You are making a positive contribution towards cutting carbon emissions Having holidays in UK may be cheaper • Top websites www.carbonneutral.com www.carbonfootprint.com www.noflights.com • Glossary Carbon offsetting - about paying a small amount towards schemes such as tree planting and research into the development of alternative non-fosil fuels. Carbon offsetting is a long-term partial solution. It only goes a small way to solving the problem. • The bible says… You shall not pollute the land you live in (Num: 35:33) or Stand still and consider the wondrous works of God (Job:37:14) • Ideas/queries: Tricia Griffiths (HOP Group) 20920 707828) Triciagrffths@aol.com • Cytun Website: www.penarthcytun.co.uk Short Version – Holidays Flying is the main problem – 1 return flight to New York uses 1.56 tonnes of co2 (each household prodcues About 6000 tonnes each year) Think about alternative holidays – trains better than planes. If flying find out about carbon offsetting Websites: www.carbonneutral.com & www.noflights.com Bible says “Stand still & consider the wondrous works Of God (Job 37:14) Topic for the month 8 Clothes & the environment • What is the problem? Very cheap clothes are usually made by people in third world countries earning little – sometimes child labour is involved Constantly buying new clothes involves processes that create carbon emissions We tend to wear less clothes in winter now which means we need more heating = more carbon emissions Suggestions Pass on unwanted clothes to Charity shops Buy at Charity shops Look for ethical fashion/clothing trading companies – particularly Fairtrade companies (see websites below) Many High St companies are buying and selling ethically look at existing wardrobes with a new eye – perhaps some accessories or minor changes might give a new lease of life to some items? If chucking out unusable items, remove buttons, buckles etc. and ensure what is left goes to recyling Wear warmer clothes in cold weather • Advantages to you You will save money Thinking about dressing ethically can be creative and fun! However small the contribution, you are helping to reduce carbon emissions You may feel better about not making use of cheap third world labour • Top Websites www.TraidcraftShop.co.uk www.antiapathy.org • Glossary Ethical Trading Schemes – whereby companies can sign up to schemes like Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) and open their factories up to independent scrutiny. • The Bible says… For the fashion of this world passeth away. (1 Corinthians: 7.31) • Ideas/queries: Tricia Griffiths (HOP Group) 02920 707828 Triciagrffths@aol.com • Cytun website: www.penarthcytun.co.uk Clothes – short version Constantly buying new clothes adds to carbon emissions and very cheap clothes are sometimes made at the expense of poor people & children in 3rd World countries. Think about revamping your wardrobe, using Charity Shops and shopping through ethical traders. You may save money and you will be helping reduce carbon emissions. Websites: www.TraidcraftShop.co.uk & www.antiapathy.org Bible says… For the fashion of this world passeth away (1 Corinthians: 7.31) Ideas/queries: Tricia Griffiths (HOP Group) 02920 707828) Triciagrffths@aol.com Topic for the month 9 Gardening – some ideas to ponder… • What are the issues? Use of water Avoiding pesticides Encouraging biodiversity in the garden Suggestions • Your garden plants probably need less water than you think. One good soak every 10 days is better than a daily sprinkle as the water does not penetrate deep into the ground. • Given than the 24,000 litres of water can be harvested from the average roof, think of buying a water butt (some water companies offer special deals). Gardening in 2008 has brought no such problem with water supplies but the long term predictions are for hosepipe bans! • Try cutting back on lawn mowing, and when you do cut, raise the cutting level as a longer cut will help grass survive dry weather. • Before rushing to the garden centre for pesticides consider looking at two brilliant sites which give alternatives to managing our main pests (e.g. slugs/snails – think of putting down coarse sand round your plants rather than pellets) and gives excellent advice about how to encourage birds/insects/amphibians/hedgehogs into your garden. There is also good advice about how to dispose of old pesticide stocks/containers the key one being don’t pour waste down the drain or burn packaging. • Top websites: www.gardenorganic.co.uk; www.rspb.org.uk/advice/gardens. • Advantages to you…you will save money, improve your soil and avoid poisoning birds/small mammals. • The Bible says… The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it (Genesis 2 v 15). • Ideas/queries…Tricia Griffiths (HOP) Group 02920 707828 • Cyntun website…www.penarthcytun.co.uk. Short version – Gardening It’s good to think through three issues: water usage; alternatives to pesticides and linked to this, how to encourage as much wildlife as possible into your garden, however small. The two most user friendly sites are: www.gardenorganic.co.uk and www.rspb.org.uk/advice/gardens. The Bible says: The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it (Ps. 24:1). Penarth Cytun – Help our Planet Tips Topic for the month… 10 Water • The issue There are 2 different issues – use of tap water and increase in bottled water on the market The problem with using too much tap water is that it all requires energy to treat, pump and often heat. So conserving tap water means conserving energy. The problem with bottled water (apart from the quantity of plastic bottles) is that a demand for an essential resource is being manufactured which is threatening the funding of public water systems. • Tips Fix leaky taps and plumbing joints Install a water butt wherever possible to collect rainwater Wash your car/path/patio with a bucket – of rainwater preferably – rather than a hose Ensure the washing machine or dishwasher always fully loaded Avoid leaving the tap running when brushing teeth, shaving, rinsing dishes etc. Don’t dally in the shower Keep a small watering can for house plants handy and fill it with leftover clean water Instead of buying bottled water, fill a resuasable flask/sports bottle with tap water • The Bible says…’He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither’ (Psalm 1:3) • Cytun website www.pernarthcytun.co.uk • Further information on bottled water: www.thinkoutsidethebottle.org Short version: Topic 10 – Water Mains tap water needs to be treated, pumped & often heated, so using less conserves energy Tips • Install a water butt & use rain water to wash cars and patios • Avoid leaving the tap running when washing, brushing teeth etc. • Always ensure washing machine/dishwasher fully loaded before use • Take shorter showers The Bible says…’He is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither’ (Psalm 1:3) Topic for the month of December 11 Have a very Happy Green Christmas! • What’s the problem? Christmas can be a time of excess when some of us shop more, eat more, drink more and generally do more of everything! We throw out even more than the weekly average of 1/3 of our weekly shop at Christmas. Christmas is about friends, family and fun but we can easily forget that our excesses will increase carbon emissions and further add to climate change….there are things we can do to help our fragile planet at Christmas and still have a good time. • Suggestions Take your life-long bags shopping and refuse plastic bags Try to avoid products packed in too much plastic Think again about artificial trees – they are made of plastic & real trees help remove carbon from the atmosphere Look for wax candles – they are biodegradable and smoke-free Try to buy recycled/charity cards and remember to recycle your old Christmas cards, Decorate the tree with natural/fair trade products Defrost the freezer before Christmas – will work better and give more space to store left-over food. Try to buy local food and organic if you can afford it Keep the curtains closed at night – keeps the home warmer and saves energy Presents – think about schemes like Oxfam’s ethical gift ideas & try to choose longer lasting gifts Think about wrapping – try recycled paper, raffia Buy plants rather than cut flowers (most flown in) Use LED indoor fairy lights (see website below) Think recycle for everything bar the kitchen sink! • Advantages to you You may well enjoy Christmas more and get closer to its real meaning! There may be some money saved The planet will be grateful • Top websites www.light4fun.co.uk www.GreenRewards.co.uk • The Bible says…. It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35), • Ideas/queries: Tricia Griffiths (Ecology ‘Group) 20 707828 Triciagrffths@aol.com • Cytun Website: www.penarthcytun.co.uk ABOVE ALL HAVE A BLESSED, GREENER AND VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS Have a green Christmas – short version Christmas is a time of huge consumption by many. This raises use of energy and increases carbon emissions. We can help by thinking green on many fronts: buying locally,, refusing plastic bags, thinking about ethical and/or durable presents, drawing the curtains, turning the thermostat down and using recycled/charity cards. After Christmas, remember to recycle everything bar the kitchen sink! You may enjoy Christmas more and save money.. Top webdises: www.light4fun.co.uk and www.GreenRewards.co.uk The Bible says: It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20: 35) ABOVE ALL HAVE A BLESSED, GREENER AND VERY HAPPY CHRISTMAS Help our Planet message for the New Year How about making a green New Year’s resolution? The following ideas are a lot easier than giving up chocolate, give one of them a try and let us know how you get on… • Going shopping? Remember to take a ‘bag for life’ • Buy Ecover cleaning products and take empty containers to Jo’s Organics In Glebe Street and get them re-filled for much less than you paid in the supermarket • Use the computer a lot? Think before you print! • Buy plants rather than cut flowers (airmiles) Contact: Tricia Griffiths (Cytun Help our Planet Group) 029 20 707828 A very Happy New Year! TIP FOR JANUARY 2009 on 12. ORGANIC FOOD • What is the problem? There are concerns about the long-term effects on our health of the chemical fertilizers and pesticides used in food production. Our soil and water can be damaged by the use of chemicals and pesticides. Modern intensive farming methods have resulted in the loss of some minerals in fruit and vegetables. Factory farming has led to the inhumane treatment of animals. We do not know the long term effects of eating meat injected with antibiotics and hormones. • Suggestions Buy local and choose organic when possible & finance permitting. If the organic option is more expensive, leave one less-healthy item out of your trolley. Consider supporting an organic veggie box scheme and be surprised by locally grown, seasonal vegetables. Look for the Free Range label to be sure that your meat has been humanely reared. “Farm Fresh” or “Country Fresh” are labels used to sell factory farmed products. • Contact for organic food: Organics To Go, Werndolau, Golden Grove, Carms. SA32 8NE Phone: 0800 458524 • Advantages to you You will know you are doing your best for your health, the environment and for farm animals. You are supporting local organic farmers and reducing carbon emissions on air-freighted food. • The Bible says … The Lord God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to cultivate it and guard it. (Gen: 2. 15) Short Version– Organic Food Concerns about long term effects on health of chemical fertilizers and pesticides – long-term effects of eating meat injected with antibiotics & hormones not known. Food & water can become contaminated and intensive farming methods have resulted in loss of some minerals in fruit & vegetables. Factory farming can lead to inhumane treatment of animals. Suggest: Finance permitting, eat organic, buy locally grown seasonal vegetables & look for Free Range labels. The Bible says… The Lord God placed the man in the Garden of Eden to cultivate it and guard it. (Gen: 2:15) Go Green for Lent? No ordinary topic this month but a few ideas for Lent…if you are already following the ideas, congratulations – now think up some new ones and share them with us! Try to give up: Plastic bags Unnecessary car journeys Standby lights (i.e. small lights that let you know a machine is alive) Out of season fruit and vegetables Overfilling the kettle Bottled water Think about: A holiday that would use a little less CO2 Only buying food to eat and not to throw away Eating a little less meat Changing to non-chemical household products Take on: A personal commitment to tell others about the Importance of reducing our carbon footprint. If we each spoke to 5 people during Lent just think across Penarth how we could cut emissions locally, and get more people believing that each one of us can do something – however small Going Green Gradually will not save the planet, but it will help to restore respect for our environment and prepare us for whatever climate change is going to bring. Prayer for Lent: Our God and Father, you have revealed to us the secrets of the earth, the sea and the sky. You have enabled us to discover the animal, vegetable and mineral resources of this Planet. Teach us now to use them wisely, effectively and to the benefit of us all, so that we may in unity enjoy the riches that you have provided, in justice, peace and prosperity; Through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen Cytun website: www.penarthcytun.co.uk Tip for the month. May 2009 13. Junk Mail • What is the problem? The use of paper is one of the major factors contributing to climate change. Felling trees, making paper and transportation all involve processes that require carbon fuel, and thereby create carbon emissions. Junk mail is unsolicited and most ends up as waste. Recycling is not the best answer as it is not a carbon-neutral process – better to stop it! Every year around 4.5 billion pieces of ‘direct mail’ are sent out in the UK. Most of the envelopes used end up in landfill sites. • Suggestions Contact the Mailing Preference Service by: Registering online: www.mpsonline.org.uk Phoning: 0845 7034599 Writing: Royal Mail Door to Door Opt Out, Kinsmead House, Oxpens Road, Oxford OX1 1RX When returning order/other forms always tick the box saying you do not want marketing material Get some letter-box stickers or make a polite notice yourself • Advantages to you… Less junk to collect and dispose of, and the satisfaction of knowing that in a small way you are helping to Cut carbon emissions. • Top Website: www.stopjunkmail.org.uk (has letterbox stickers and a contact that reaches 6 optout schemes in one go) • The Bible says…’The highest heavens belong to the Lord, but the earth He has given to man’ (Psalm 115 v 16) • Cytun website: www.penarthcytun.co.uk TIP for May 2009 Junk Mail – short version Use of paper a major contributor to carbon emissions. Try to stop junk mail by contacting Royal Preference Service: on line: www.mpsonline.org.uk or phone: 9845-7034599 or write: Royal Mail Door to Door Opt out, Kingsmead House, Oxpens Rd., Oxford OX1 1RX. Good website: www.stopjunkmail.org.uk Bible says… ‘the highest heavens belong to the Lord, but the earth He has given to man’ (Psalm 115 v16) Topic this month: June 2009 14. Communication – written, on the phone, electronic.. • What is the problem? Whether on the phone, in writing or on the internet, communicating with each other and getting messages across (e.g in advertising, memos, reports etc.) uses energy – more than we realise. Paper is the worst culprit. The World Wildlife Fund states that “over 40% of commercially harvested trees are used for paper production”. • Suggestions Use both sides of paper when printing or photocopying. Be selective when printing Use paper either with recycled content of FSC (Forest Stewardship Council approved) paper – reams have distinctive logo Recycle paper through council waste collection & remember to pass on Christmas cards to the Woodland Trust via boxes outside Tesco, M&S and WH Smith Buy a roll of sticky labels and reuse envelopes sent to you Some people choose to give to charity at Christmas rather than send loads of Christmas cards If you use the computer, make more use of it for filing, notes etc. Above all, use less paper and use it wisely! • Advantages to you… Knowing you are using less energy = less carbon emissions. Less paper around the house has to be good! • Top website: www.preventclimatechange.co.uk/use-less-paper.html • Quotations….”To commit a crime against the natural world is a sin” (Bartholomew 1, Patriarch, Orthodox Christian Church) or “The growing possibility of our destroying ourselves & the world with our own neglect and excess is tragic and very real"”(Dr Billy Graham, 1983) • Cytun website: www.penarthcytun.co.uk Communication – short version Communication by phone, email or on paper uses energy. By using less paper, printing less, emailing & phoning less we can save energy and cut carbon emissions – good for the planet! Keeps the house tidier! Recycle whenever possible, email/phone in preference to writing, reuse envelopes (buy roll of sticky labels). Above all use less paper and use it wisely. Quotes: (see above for choice) Top website: www.preventclimatechange.co.uk/use-less-paper.html 15. September 2009 This month: Health and Beauty The issues: • The average adult uses 9 personal care products daily, exposing them to 129 chemicals every day. • Ethical considerations are complex but include pollution caused by disposal of old products, packaging, & animal testing. Traceability & sustainability also worrying because rainforests are cut down in some countries and replaced by palm oil plantations. These changes directly affect poor working people in third world countries. (www.cosmeticsbusiness.com/story). • In March this year the European Union banned animal testing for cosmetics (but animal testing can be disguised for non cosmetic purposes). Perfume was excluded from the legislation because the cosmetics and toiletries industry has “too many ingredients to list” (around 6,000 – 8,000). Suggestions: • The Good Shopping Guide (published by the Ethical Marketing Group) gives the following products an ethical clean bill of health:- SHAMPOO Body Shop; Faith in Nature; Green People; Hemp Garden; Honest; Natura Organics; Neem Care and Weleda. PERFUME AND AFTERSHAVES Women’s - Amethyst Mist; Aurelia; Chanel No. 5; White Musk and Men’s - Activist; Aurelius; Ginger FM and Sirius. TOOTHPASTE Green People; Pearl Drops; Sarakan; Weleda; Thursday Plantation and Kingfisher. SUN PROTECTION Banana Boat; Body Shop; Delph; Green People; Honesty, Malibu and Weleda. SOAP Body Shop; Caurnie Soaps; Faith in Nature; Hemp Garden; Lush; Organic Soaps and Suma. SKINCARE Body Shop; Culpeper; Green People; Hemp Garden; Honesty; Lush; Natura Organics and Weleda. DEODORANTS (www.ethical.org/LinkClick) Dr. Haushka; Weleda; Green People and Lush and those products which are free of aluminium chlorohydrate (anti-perspirants) Crystal; Dr. Haushka; Tom’s of Maine; Green People; Weleda; Lush; PitRok; Urtekram and Jason. Please note that most of these products are not on sale in our supermarkets! • Disposal of old health and beauty products (“The Observer” 31.8.08) – avoid putting them into the water system via the loo or sink and put them out in the normal rubbish collection. • Advantages to you? You are making a small, but significant contribution towards reducing the use of chemicals and pollutants • The Bible says – Psalm 50:2 “From Zion, perfect in beauty, God shines forth.” • Cytun Website: www.penarthcytun.co.uk Short version • The average adult uses 9 personal care products daily, exposing them to 129 chemicals every day. Issues regarding sourcing and sustainability; animal testing; packaging need consideration. • The Good Shopping Guide (published by the Ethical Marketing Group) gives good guidance on ethically produced health and beauty products as well as www.ethical.org/LinkClick. • Avoid putting old health and beauty products into the water system and put them into the normal rubbish collection. • The Bible says – Psalm 50:2 “From Zion, perfect in beauty, God shines forth.” Penarth Cytun – Help our Planet Tips for going green gradually…. Further Topic for the month…Join the 10:10 campaign In the run-up to the Copenhagen Climate Change talks in December we are hearing more and more about the importance of taking global warming seriously. People across the world are making real commitments to change their lifestyles. One way is to follow the 10:10 campaign – 10 easy ways of cutting our emissions. They are listed here as headlines – anyone wanting the full version may look at the 10:10 website: www.1010uk.org/people If you sign up to the campaign, you can see how many people/organisations etc. have joined – quite encouraging! To those already following this regime – tell a friend – it really doesn’t hurt! 1 Fly less, holiday more (swap plane for train) or fly and try to stay longer and go less often 2 Save 10% on heating – turn down the thermostat and wear warmer clothes. Apply for grants for home insulation grants 3 Save 10% on electricity – switch to low energy bulbs and, if possible, replace old fridges and freezers 4 Drive less – use public transport, leave car at home once a week. Join a car share group 5 Eat better – Try one meat free day a week, eat fruit and veg in season and shop as locally as possible 6 Buy good stuff! Good stuff lasts longer which means less carbon emitted in producing more, cheaper goods 7 Dump less – Avoid/refuse excess packaging and recycle anything possible 8 Don’t’ waste food – average family throws away £50 worth of food each week! Saves money too. 9 Water – of possible, shower rather than bath. Only use full dishwasher & washing machines and think about which plants really need water – Mulching roots helps! 10 Feel healthier & happier – more walking, cycling etc. should make us feel better,as may knowing that we’ve become part of the solution and not part of the problem! • The Bible says: ‘Keep safe what has been entrusted to you’ 1 Timothy 6:20 Short version: In run up to Copenhagen climate change talks in December, many people are making real carbon-saving changes to their lifestyles. The 10:10 campaign provides 10 easy steps. Full version at www.1010uk.org/people 1 Fly less, swap plane for train 2 Heating – turn down, wear warmer clothes 3 Electricity – swap to low energy bulbs and replace old fridges etc. 4 Drive less – try a car free day a week – use public transport more 5 Eat better – Eat food in season and shop as locally as possible 6 Buy good stuff! – less goods made, less emissions 7 Dump less – Avoid excess packaging, recycle more 8 Food waste – average family throws £50 worth food away a week 9 Water – use less – shower, fill dishwashers, washing machines 10 Feel happier - by eating better, taking more exercise, saving money and cutting the carbon! Bible says: ‘Keep safe what has been entrusted to you’ 1 Timothy 6:20 • Cytun website: www.penarthcytun.co.uk HOP to Gwyrddio Penarth Greening The Ecology sub committee of Penarth Cytun (Council of Churches)- HOP met for many years expressing concern for an increasingly desperate ecological world condition. They were despondent because people did not understand and were distressed when people commented, “You’re not talking about that again”. They nevertheless persisted and well led by Tricia Griffiths regular warnings were given and also regular advice columns were issued which were published in many church magazines. Similar to water dripping on to a stone and slowly wearing it away the message was finally received and responses were made. Some of the group coincided with thousands of others all over Britain in phoning the Prime Minister recently and he heard. Gordon Brown’s recent statement showed that positive action was being contemplated. The Chinese government have seen the melting snows of the Himalayas as a warning that the situation is serious. The change of administration in the USA and the clear statement of President Obama contrasted with the “head in the sand” attitude of the Bush regime is hugely important. So west and east are both concerned and therefore hope increases of a positive and constructive conclusion to the conference in Copenhagen. Realising that some people are still sceptical about the situation let us answer the basic question what its all about? The science is clear: global warming is happening faster than ever and humans are responsible. Global warming is caused by releasing what are called greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. The most common greenhouse gas is carbon dioxide. Many of the activities we do every day like turn the lights on, cook food, or heat or cool our homes rely on energy sources like coal and oil that emit carbon dioxide and other heat-trapping gases. This is a major problem because global warming destabilizes the delicate balance that makes life on this planet possible. Just a few degrees in temperature can completely change the world as we know it, and threaten the lives of millions of people around the world. As the ice melts and the oceans rise many islands in the Pacific and the coastal regions of Bangladesh are in danger of disappearing. The threat to the Thames basin and London and other major cities of the world is evident. But don't give up hope! You can help by following the advice given by “the HOP group” which similar to all evolutionary developments has like the chrysalis grown into a larger body called Gwyrddio Penarth Greening. This is now the original group plus many supportive agencies such as the Penarth Town and the Vale of Glamorgan Councils, the Wales Environmental Agency and many other interested bodies. All hope is not lost 350 is the number that leading scientists say is the safe upper limit for carbon dioxide—measured in "Parts Per Million" in our atmosphere. 350 PPM—it's the number humanity needs to get back to as soon as possible to avoid runaway climate change. If we are already past 350ppm, and we are, because of our wasteful throw away lifestyle,are we doomed? No. We're like the patient that goes to the doctor and learns he's overweight, or his cholesterol is too high. He doesn't die immediately—but until he changes his lifestyle and gets back down to the safe zone, he's at more risk for heart attack or stroke. The planet is in its danger zone because we've poured too much carbon into the atmosphere, and we're starting to see signs of real trouble: melting ice caps, rapidly spreading drought. We need to scramble back as quickly as we can to safety. We need an international agreement to reduce carbon emissions. The United Nations is working on a global climate treaty which is to be completed in December 2009 at a conference in Copengagen which should be firm for the richer countries but also fair for the poorer countries which need to develop. There is also much to be done locally and many issues will be discussed in the next meeting of Gwyrddio Penarth Greening which will be held in the back room of the Windsor on the corner of Windsor Road and High Street on Monday 7th December at 6pm. We invite you to join us. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> PENARTH and DISTRICT LESOTHO TRUST ( PADLT ) Chairman. Rev. Peter Cox. EM: peterallard.cox@ntlworld.com Hon.Secretary and Contact person. Mr Jeremy Dix. EM: dan1im2arch3@yahoo.co.uk Wales was unofficially twinned with Lesotho some 21 years ago. The two countries have a number of similarities, their size and mountainous terrain, population, bilingualism, love of singing and their valueing of education and their electioneering style of government.The NGO, Dolen Cymru, is responsible for the development of links between the two countries and works within the churches, education and health. The National Assembly recognises this friendship relationship and supports this financially. In 2001, it was decided to support a Street Children Project run by the Guides in Maseru, the capital of Lesotho. Following this financial support a visit was made and Dolen suggested Teyateyaneng ( TY ) as a suitable twin town for Penarth. As a result of that visit, a number of links have been made, including the twinning of several schools and churches. There have been visits both ways by teachers and a number of health projects have also resulted. Whilst Wales is a much wealthier country than Lesotho and is able to help with resources, we in Wales have benefitted greatly from those in Lesotho and all visitors to that country return inspired by the love and Christian generosity of the people of Lesotho. By 2007, it was felt that the links were involving the community as a whole and The Penarth and District Lesotho Trust ( PADLT ) was registered with the Charity Commission in June 2008. The Trust 1) promotes the advancement of the Christian Faith 2) supports the relief of poverty 3) promotes education both in Penarth and TY 4) supports visits between people of the 2 countries, training and work experience 5) channels dedicated monies to specific projects in Lesotho Hopefully , all the above should remain pertinent for the forseeable future REPORT BY THE PENARTH AND DISTRICT LESOTHO TRUST TO PENARTH AND DISTRICT CYTUN NOVEMBER 19TH 2008 The Trust continues to be active and Trustees have been invited to share news of the work of the Trust to church and school groups.Several of the schools in Penarth are linked with schools in TY and children continue to benefit in understanding how those in other parts of the world live and many pen friends have been made. Plans have been made for 2 group visits in 2009 and young people are planning to visit again in 2010. Dolen Cymru is celebrating 25 years of activity in Lesotho by building a Training Centre in Maseru and with this ambitious project in mind has launched an appeal for £250,000.PADLT will be making a donation. £500 has been sent to TY Junior Academy as they struggle to build a new school and continue to educate some 250 children of Infant and Primary school age in the existing rudimentary buildings. One of our contacts in Maseru, Mark West, is running a Scripture Union camp for children and the Trust is considering assisting this financially. A number of Fund-raising and promotional events are planned by the Trust, including carol singing around the pubs and a table top sale. The Trustees are grateful to Cytun for their continuing support and encouragement. Jeremy Dix ( Honorary Secretary PADLT REPORT BY PADLT TO PENARTH AND DISTRICT CYTUN ON WEDNESDAY 10th JUNE 2009 A party of students from Ystrad Mynach college, under the leadership of Lesley Cox paid a most successful visit to Lesotho in March. They were hosted by the Education Ministry and paid several visits to Nursery schools and also visited TY Junior academy and its headmaster Godfrey Kakande. His new school buildings are well under way and most importantly they have working toilets. Resources were also made available to the Girl Guide Street Children Project. Nigel Gibbs also accompanied the party and he visited several hospitals to further their links with The Heath and Llandough. All the students enjoyed the trip, felt it was worthwhile and, finance allowing, the College is keen to arrange further trips. Sara Jones is hoping to arrange a visit with friends and colleagues in Easter 2010 and young people from Stanwell school are planning to go out in August 2010. Others are considering a visit in April 2011. The traffic is not all one way and several teachers from Lesotho have visited Wales and Godfrey Kakande is due to arrive on 21st June for 2 weeks. He hopes to see as many local groups and old friends as possible. Plans are well under way for the Lesotho Exhibition during Holiday Week and many local schools have shown interest. The Exhibition is also open to the public between 9.0am and 6.0pm on 9th, 10th, 13th and 14 th July, on the Thursday and Friday in Stanwell Road and the Monday and Tuesday in All Saints. Please advertise as widely as possible. PADLT continues to be a channel for funding of various projects in Lesotho. Monies have been sent to Caritas, Lesotho, to TY Junior Academy and to Ntjabana school, twinned with Fairfield. £ 400 was raise at the Quiz Night and future fund raising events planned are a film show at The Chapter Arts Centre and a Table Top Sale. We are grateful to our various supporters who very generously help us in many ways and feel we are gaining the sympathetic interest of Penarth community as a whole. Jeremy Dix ( Sec. PADLT ) REPORT BY PADLT TO PENARTH CYTUN SEPTEMBER 2009 . There are several events of importance that have happened since the last meeting. After considerable trouble obtaining a visa, Mr Godfrey Kakande of TY Junior Academy visited us in June and was able to visit a number of churches, schools and other groups supportive of his work. He is doing an amazing job with the 150 children in his school in the most difficult of circumstances and any help we in Wales can give is most appreciated, though its often a question of whether they eat or build a little more of the school. There are now classrooms, a primitive accommodation block and toilets. There is one water tap but no electricity as yet. Godfrey was invited by the Mayor to a civic reception and expressed great support for the work, with the possibility of providing an electric generator.The temperature in Lesotho was well below freezing in June and Godfrey was given 30 hot water bottles to take back for the children. We believe this is a project worthy of our ongoing support. In July The Trust put on a Lesotho Exhibition initially in Stanwell Road Baptist and later in All Saints. This was well supported by several Penarth Primary schools who have links with Lesotho, which features on their school curriculum. In addition a number of members of the public expressed interest and some good contacts were made. The fact that it overlapped with the Art Exhibition was mutually beneficial to both. An article in a recent edition of The Sunday Times revealed the exploitation that is occurring in Maseru where clothing manufacturers are polluting the local river and dumping dangerous chemicals on the local rubbish tip. This is affecting those who depend on river water to drink and the numerous children who scavenge the tip as their only means of income.These clothes are being made for Gap and Levi and The Trust has responded in writing and brought this matter to the notice of its members. We are continuing to plan further visits to Lesotho and are grateful for the support given by Dolen Cymru, VCVS, Penarth Cytun, The Town Council and many others for the work on which we are engaged. Jeremy Dix ( Secretary PADLT ) Report of Penarth and District Lesotho Trust to Penarth and District Cytun full Council Meeting November 2009 As reported previously, the Trust was encouraging all members and other concerned parties to contact Gap and Levi Strauss in connection with reports of untreated pollution and waste discharging into rivers and refuse dumps from their factories in Lesotho. This prompted a response from Levi Strauss which stated that they treated the allegations extremely seriously and that they had produced an action plan to address these concerns and that they would report on progress made. We replied, on behalf of affected Basothans, that we were pleased to hear this and that during our next Easter visit, one of our trustees will assess progress and take appropriate photographs.We recognise that to develop the links further, we need to have a committee or working group ( the Lesothan equivalent of PADLT ), representative of the TY community, with whom we can liaise. To set up this group, we are pleased to say the Trust has been awarded £1500 by Gold Star towards travel, accommodation and administrative expenses. Gold Star is an organisation responsible for developing links between Welsh communities and communities in sub- Saharan Africa, for the mutual benefit of both parties.Sara Jones and her group visiting at Easter plan to sign letters of co-operation and understanding and see to the formation of the TY and District Wales Link. There is another group from Stanwell School going out in August and they recently ran a very successful Fashion Show when over £2300 was raised for the trip. They will be working with local schools and this will give another group of young people the opportunity to catch the vision of international friendship. Lesley and Peter Cox have graciously agreed to go as drivers. We recently had a table at the Table Top Sale in Cosmeston Community Hall on a very wet day. £80 was raised. Future plans are for a showing of the animated family film “ Kirikou and the Sorceress” at The Chapter Arts Centre this Saturday at 3.0pm, a tree in St Augustine’s Christmas Tree Festival, a Coffee morning on Sat 23 Jan in All Saints Lesser Hall and a quiz night on Thursday 18 Feb . We continue to support churches and schools in and around TY, and TY Junior Academy is still in urgent need of funding where Godfrey does wonders with so little. Our AGM is on Feb3rd , 7.0pm in Stanwell Lecture Room where refreshments will be served and we shall give an up-to-date report on the progress of Godfrey’s new school and our other links in Lesotho. Signed Jeremy Dix ( Sec. PADLT ) Report by PADLT to Penarth and District Cytun Jan 2010 We have been quite busy since the last report. The showing of the film “ Kirikou and the Sorceress” raised £138 and the recent coffee morning raised £350. All Saints generously donated their Carol Service offering to Lesotho. The AGM is on Wed. Feb 3rd, 7.0pm in Stanwell Baptist Lecture Room and all interested are invited. We shall have an update on Lesotho, a report on future plans and hear from the new Director of Dolen Cymru. Our next fund raiser is a Quiz on Thursday 18th Feb. at 7.0pm in Stanwell Baptist Hall, Quiz master Alun Jenkins. This will be a very good evening, a lot of fun and tickets £5 can be bought through the churches or on the door. We also took part in St Augustine’s Christmas Tree Festival and hope to be a nominated charity in the future. There were 3 trees dedicated to Lesotho, an indication of the growing interest in this link. Sara Jones and her group are well advanced in their plans for a visit this Easter and the Young People’s visit in August will soon be receiving serious attention. There are also plans for two further visits in the Spring of 2011. PADLT continues to be grateful for the support given by Penarth and District Cytun and any suggestions or offers for fundraising or other help would be warmly welcomed. Jeremy Dix ( Sec. PADLT ) 25/01/2010 Penarth and District Lesotho Trust Report. June 2010 Dates for the Diary: Summer Serenade: 7.30 on July 10* at Stanwell Road Baptist Church. A concert with music to suit all tastes featuring 'Cambrensis' and guests. Admission is free, but come with a donation for our work in TY. Please spread the word and stick up a poster! Lesotho Youth 4 Since 2004 groups of teenage from Penarth have been visiting Lesotho. The next group of fíve young Penarthians is all set to leave on August 3rd to stay in Southern Africa for two weeks. They will stay in Lesotho and help at local schools in Peka and TY. They will experience the culture and customs of Lesotho before leaving for a few days in South Africa visiting the Pilannesberg National Park and Soweto. Lesotho Exhibition An educational exhibition will be held at Stanwell Baptist Church during the Holiday Festival. The local schools have been invited and have shown some interest in attending. TYPDWL A document founding Teyayenaneng and Peka Wales Lesotho Link has been signed by representatives of Community groups in Lesotho. The aim is to spread the engagement of the PADLT with as many people and community groups as possible. This new organisation in Lesotho is working on creating a Constitution. TY Junior Academy The trust continues to send money to the TYJA. Facilities on the site continue to improve. During the last fíve years the land has been purchased, classrooms built, toilets, a dormitory and accommodation for the teachers. The school has begun to cultivate some of its land and has grown yegetables. They have also began to farm cattle and pigs. The next phases of work are to provide electricity, repair damaged classrooms and replace School van. >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>