Sustainable Christmas Gifts

Though it may be too early to think about Christmas or other mid-winter festivals just yet, my mind turns in November to what I might give to friends and family. The reason that I often start to think about this in November is that I usually make gifts. Of course, planning and making gifts takesContinue reading “Sustainable Christmas Gifts”

Good News on Beavers in Scotland

With all the depressing news at the moment, it is good when we do have something positive to cheer about, and I was delighted to hear the news that the Scottish government has granted Scotland’s first edge-of-range beaver translocation licence to Argaty in Perthshire – an environmentally sensitive farm already home to the award winningContinue reading “Good News on Beavers in Scotland”

Simplifying and Downsizing for Sustainability

Since I shared that tiny home case study yesterday, I’ve had an interesting conversation with someone about why they ‘could not possibly live in such a tiny home’. This cuts to the heart of a key issue in sustainability – how much – how many belongings – do we really need. Most of us inContinue reading “Simplifying and Downsizing for Sustainability”

Philosophy of Sustainability

As a philosophy graduate, I have a strong interest in the philosophical questions surrounding sustainability and the climate crisis. I did not pursue a path in academia, but I am strongly of the opinion that intellectual thought should not be the preserve of ivory towers. We should ask ourselves the big important questions in ourContinue reading “Philosophy of Sustainability”

Remaining Vigilant for Hypocrisy at COP26

While there are undoubtedly some signs for hope coming out of the climate change conference in Glasgow this week, unfortunately, our leaders are, in some major ways, still falling far short. After speaking about the vital importance of action at the conference, Boris Johnson and other leaders have been criticised for flying back home. TimeContinue reading “Remaining Vigilant for Hypocrisy at COP26”

Can COP Really Deliver on Climate Finance and Climate Justice?

As discourse on climate finance is taking place at the COP26 conference, mobilising public and private finance is key. Financial services firms have agreed to align $130 trillion with climate goals, and a new financial mechanism of green bonds has been announced… But while energy coalesces around this aspect of tackling the crises we face,Continue reading “Can COP Really Deliver on Climate Finance and Climate Justice?”

Sustainable Halloween & Very Busy as COP 26 Starts

Please excuse the hiatus over the last couple of days. I do try to post here most days but did not manage to do so over the weekend. As COP26 starts, and the world’s attention turns to these pivotal talks, those of us involved in sustainability and permaculture are busier than ever. Do check outContinue reading “Sustainable Halloween & Very Busy as COP 26 Starts”

The Importance of Art and Music

I am posting rather late tonight because we have had a lovely evening of guitar and singing with friends and some family. Art and music are important in our lives. They can help us to give expression to our feelings and our thoughts. For me, that is never more important than when we are facingContinue reading “The Importance of Art and Music”

Are Your Financial Dealings Helping or Hindering Climate Efforts?

When you think about living in a more sustainable way, you are likely to begin by looking at those things that are closest to home – food production, energy, recycling. You’ll likely look at how you get around, and, of course, at what you choose to buy (or to avoid buying). Often, however, people tryingContinue reading “Are Your Financial Dealings Helping or Hindering Climate Efforts?”

Why a Slow Cooker is Great for Sustainable Living

I’m just finishing up work after a busy day and I am reminded once more just how useful my slow cooker is for sustainable living. Some days, when I have been flat out at work (like today) I really don’t feel like cooking an elaborate meal. But as we all know, cooking fresh, local orContinue reading “Why a Slow Cooker is Great for Sustainable Living”