Interesting Websites

On this page we have provided a list of interesting websites for you to browse. We believe the information on these sites may be of use to you, and we encourage you to take a look at what others are doing to protect our planet.

The sites are divided into three sections:

Non-Government Organisations Government Sites Business Sites

NGOs (Non Government Organisations)

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ACFCGN (Australian City Farms and Community Gardens Network)

ACFGCN seems to cover many sites, for example Sustainable Gardening Australia. You should search your local area for detailed information. But Community Gardens Australia is your best link.

The ACFCGN is a community-based organisation linking people interested in city farming, community gardening and community food systems around Australia. The network’s mantra promotes growing good food while growing convivial communities. The website provides the opportunity to search for and connect with a community garden near you as well as a great deal of information about starting your own community garden. There are event directories in every state, as well as social networks, a blog and a large publications section containing useful resources about community and sustainable gardening.

There is the opportunity to become a member of the network and receive the latest Enews, join email discussion groups and promote your events. This website is packed with information, news and resources and is a great meeting point for the community garden fellowship.

Go to communitygarden.org.au

The Australian Food Sovereignty Alliance is another interesting website that offers community support for issues such as sustainability in food growing.

Alternative Technology Association (ATA)

The ATA (http://www.ata.org.au) is an organisation whose goals are to foster communities which grow and prosper in balance with natural ecosystems, living sustainably through the improved use of technology and practices to better manage our natural resources.

The ATA publishes the Renew Magazine which has many articles on topics such as solar power, solar hot water systems, electric vehicles, energy efficient lighting and many more practical examples to help people live more sustainably. It also publishes Sanctuary magazine which gives ideas for sustainable homes.

Membership of the ATA, as well as giving access to the association’s magazines, also provides a free advice service from the association’s experts and discounts on goods and books from the ATA’s webshop.

Toowoomba Branch - You can contact the branch here: [email protected]

Asbestos Abatement and Recycling

Asbestos in older buildings and materials must be handled carefully to limit exposure, which often means disposing it in a designated landfill. Recycling asbestos may also be possible as researchers develop ways to safely reuse the materials intertwined with it.

This article contains the following sections:

  • Asbestos and Health
  • Where Asbestos Can Be Found Today
  • Regulations for the Disposal of Asbestos
  • Asbestos Disposal vs. Recycling
  • How to Recycle Asbestos

Read more at: https://mesothelioma.net/recycling-asbestos/

Australian Academy of Science

The “Australian Academy of Science” is a grand sounding name, but what might they offer the supporters of HOPE? Well, their website is a treasure-trove of information about all manner of things scientific. Be it delving into Australia's role in looking into Life on Mars, how scientists come in all shapes and sizes, or the history of science, there is certainly plenty to discover here. They also promote a few scientific events and have links to the Australian Academy of Science's You Tube videos.

The organisation is not-for-profit and aims to champion, celebrate and support excellence in Australian science. It also promotes international scientific engagement, builds public awareness and understanding of science and provides independent, authoritative and influential scientific advice.

Visit our website www.science.org.au for the full story.

Australian & New Zealand Solar Energy Society - International Solar Energy Society Australian NZ Section Promotion Office

Scientific, social & economic development through the environmentally sound utilisation of solar energy. Investigation into the operation and development of solar energy applications and potential applications. The development of viable solar energy industries in Australasia. The generation and dissemination of information on current and future solar energy developments to members and potential members. Influence on government policies which may impact upon the present and future development of solar energy applications. Visit: www.anzses.org

Australian Building Greenhouse Rating Scheme

The Australian Building Greenhouse Rating (ABGR) Scheme is a 'world first initiative' to help building owners and tenants across Australia benchmark their greenhouse performance. Visit www.nabers.com.au

The Australian Business & Climate Group (ABCG)

The Australian Business & Climate Group (ABCG) is a group of nine major organisations - Anglo Coal, BP Australia, Deloitte, Mirvac, Rio Tinto, Santos, Swiss Re, VicSuper and Westpac. The group’s major objective is to identify a supporting role for business in the acceleration of the development and deployment of Australia’s low emissions economy. It has released a report entitled Stepping Up: Accelerating the Deployment of Low Emission Technology in Australia in August 2007

NB: The ABCG website is no longer available a copy of the report can be downloaded at https://www.westpac.com.au/docs/pdf/aw/sustainability-community/ABCG_Report_2007.pdf.

ACOR (Australian Council of Recyclers)

Australian Council of Recyclers is Australia’s leading industry association representing companies involved in processing secondary, solid raw material. ACOR members currently reprocess more than 12,990,000 tons (or 86%) of recyclable material in Australian annually. It aims to encourage governments, industry and the community to take actions that promote resource recovery, recycling and optimise the profitable recovery and recycling of secondary materials, and to maximise the opportunity of substituting recycled materials for virgin raw materials and closing the recycling loop through members producing a range of quality recycled raw materials. Materials currently reprocessed by members of ACOR include – Aluminium, Cardboard, Computers, Construction and demolition material, Electronics, Ferrous and non-ferrous metals, Glass, Paper, newsprint, Plastics – HDPE, LDPE, LLDPE, PET, PVC, Mercury, Tyres and Whitegoods. Rod Welford, ACOR’s CEO, believes that, “There is an opportunity to achieve radical resource efficiencies in energy and other waste ‘resources’ through cleaner production and industrial ecology technologies that successfully close the loop on all resource inputs, not just material ones. For further details, newsletters, members, FAQs, links, contact and details of how to join ACOR, go to their website at www.acor.org.au/ .

Australian Earth Laws Alliance (AELA)

AELA’s mission is to promote the understanding and practical implementation of Earth jurisprudence and ‘Wild Law’ in Australia, so that we can build human societies that live within our ecological limits and nurture the health of the wider Earth community.  Earth jurisprudence is a new legal theory and growing social movement.  It proposes that we rethink our legal, political, economic and governance systems so that they support, rather than undermine, the integrity and health of the Earth.

AELA was created in 2012 and is the Australian expression of a growing international movement of lawyers and other Earth advocates striving to create Earth centred law and governance systems, and create a more harmonious relationship with our beautiful planet.  Our multi-disciplinary projects include research, education, community building and advocacy.  All our work is driven by our members’ interests and commitment – so become a member and get involved!

AELA is a founding member of the Global Alliance for the Rights of Nature, which brings together more than 70 organisations around the world, who support Earth Jurisprudence and Rights of Nature.  AELA is an affiliate of the Earth Charter and a partner of the Global Footprint Network.
Visit: http://www.earthlaws.org.au/

The Australian Network for Plant Conservation (ANPC)

The website can be found here: ANPC

The Australian Network for Plant Conservation (ANPC) represents a national network linking community, research and action in plant conservation. Operating as a hub for all interested in understanding the complex realities of Australian conservation and land management, the ANPC website and associated outlets provides a range of services.

  • Network. Interested parties can sign up to the newsletter to receive active ANPC news.
  • Forum. A history of events can be browsed, ANPC has in the past hosted the Australian Plant Conservation Conference.
  • Communication. The ANPC publishes findings from current research and up to date practices in the bulletin Australasian Plant Conservation. Conservation techniques and guidelines are also published on the website.
  • Education. The Network also holds workshops and courses in conservation and rehabilitation techniques. Upcoming events can be found here: https://www.anpc.asn.au/workshops/
  • Ecology. The ANPC promotes an ecological focus in on-ground conservation, rehabilitation and management of remnant vegetation, threatened plants and ecological communities.
  • Action. The ANPC leads and collaborates on projects for the conservation of Australian flora. Current projects include a Victorian based Orchid conservation program, Banksia restoration on heathland and a Plant Genome sequencing project for native plants. See: https://www.anpc.asn.au/projects/

Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA)

ARENA is a government-established body which is independent of the government. It opened for business on 1 July 2012 with two objectives:

  1. To improve the competitiveness of renewable energy technologies, and
  2. To increase the supply of renewable energy in Australia

ARENA has funding to invest in:

  • The funding of renewable energy projects
  • Supporting research and development activities, and
  • Supporting of activities to capture and share knowledge

Their website is really well set out and is divided into three main areas:

  1. How to Apply for Funding
  2. Our Projects, and
  3. Knowledge Bank

ARENA explains that renewable energy is energy which can be obtained from natural resources that can be constantly replenished.

And the types of renewable energy technologies are:

  • Bioenergy
  • Geothermal energy
  • Hydropower
  • Ocean energy
  • Solar energy, and
  • Wind energy

I found the website to be informative and very easy to navigate. I also learnt a thing or two!

If you’d like to explore further, then you can view their website at www.arena.gov.au.

You can also contact them via:

  • Email: [email protected]
  • Phone: 1800 804 838 (9am – 5pm AEST weekdays) | Switchboard +61 (0) 2 6274 1111
  • Mail: GPO Box 643, Canberra ACT 2601
  • WWW: Contact us.

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Bellis

Bellis is the house that Jerry Coleby-Williams (Gardening Australia) and Jeff Poole have completely transformed into a sustainable house. This website is devoted to the transformation process and the end result, showing you in detail what has been done. Watch and learn! Go to jerry-coleby-williams.net/bellis

Beyond Zero Emissions (BZE)

View the 2020 Stationary Energy poster (above) in full size here.

Beyond Zero Emissions is an internationally recognised climate change think tank.
We produce independent and innovative research solutions demonstrating that a zero emissions Australia is achievable and affordable now.
Our reports provide detailed pathways for a ten-year transition in each major sector of Australia’s economy. Go to bze.org.au

Bioscience

BioScience is a non-commercial, educational journal created to promote bioscience literacy and published by the American Institute of Biological Sciences (AIBS). BioScience presents current research, accompanied by essays and discussion on education, public policy, history, and the conceptual underpinnings of the biological sciences. Visit: https://academic.oup.com/bioscience/


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Carbon Market

Carbon Market is a News, Media & Film company with a clear focus on environmental, cultural and social good..
Channels:
  • A Drop in the Ocean
    A Drop In The Ocean is a ground breaking documentary about the adverse impacts of human activity on the world’s oceans and the steps that we can take to mitigate these impacts.
  • Eco News
    Eco News provides "as it happens" news articles, from an Australian perspective. Make it your daily source of environmental information.
  • Eco Voice
    Eco Voice is a monthly ‘environment’ publication with the values of ‘Community, Conservation and Commerce’ as well as working with government for sustainable outcomes.
  • Eco TV
    Eco TV is a digital media platform offering environmental information from around Australia – it is the place where you can watch, listen and engage
  • The Native Shop
    The Native Shop is a leading online provider of native plants, seeds and related accessories

Carbon Positive Australia

Carbon Positive Australia is a non-profit organisation – working with individuals and businesses to reduce and offset carbon emissions. We will continue to use donor funds to provide sympathetic environmental restoration and planting of degraded land. We take a nature led approach and are passionate about providing ecologically sensitive planting that protects our agricultural land and environment. For more information, visit https://carbonpositiveaustralia.org.au/

Carbon Footprint Calculator

Center for International Environmental Law

Since 1989, CIEL has used the power of law to protect the environment, promote human rights, and ensure a just and sustainable society. With offices in Washington, DC, and Geneva, Switzerland, CIEL’s team of attorneys, policy experts, and support staff works to provide legal counsel and advocacy, policy research, and capacity building across our three program areas: Climate & Energy, Environmental Health, and People, Land, & Resources.

Visit: www.ciel.org/

The Change Agency

Their motto is, Making Change Happen. The Change Agency Education and Training Institute Inc. is a small and independent not-for-profit education initiative, based in Australia. They work within our Asia-Pacific Region, helping community organizers and activists to win social and environmental change. They offer workshops, training resources and research to help build the skills of those working for social and environmental change. Their website offers training resources, case studies and articles for activist research, as well as workshops and links to other like-minded websites. They also have a free monthly e-newsletter. For Community organizers they also have a mentoring and advisory service From their website you can easily access training resources on:
  • Political analysis:
    Before deciding what to do, it’s crucial to first analyse the political context, forces and opportunities. These political analysis tools and frameworks are designed to inform, motivate and enhance strategic action.
  • Strategy:
    In our ‘Strategising for Change’ workshops, participants share and experiment with several campaign planning templates. Our workshop resources are available for downloading from the ‘strategy page’. Increasingly, we work in an embedded way with organisations to help develop and evaluate campaign strategies.
  • Social action skills:
    Social action skills include political education, recruiting people, choosing issues, selecting targets, planning action strategies, running media campaigns, Internet activism, lobbying, electoral work, nonviolent direct action, community organizing, networking with sympathetic allies in the public and private sectors, participating effectively in public hearings, community-based action research, building coalitions, collaborative problem solving, and a wide variety of cultural preparation work.
  • Working in groups:
    These skills are required to establish and maintain organisations to initiate and sustain effective community action.
  • Personal development and life skills:
    Personal and interpersonal skills contribute constructively to collective action and help activists avoid ‘burnout’.
I noted that they acknowledge Australia’s First Nation People by stating, Our team acknowledge that we live on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people's Country, which is clearly marrying their desire for social change with their desire for environmental awareness and change. You can check out more about what they have to offer by logging on to their website:
www.thechangeagency.org. You can also reach them by mail at: PO Box 15, Islington NSW 2296 Phone 0431 150 928.

Cities for Climate Protection (CCP) Australia

The Cities for Climate Protection (CCP) Australia program assists local governments and their communities reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It is funded with a $13 million over 5-year commitment. It is being delivered with the collaboration with the Australian Greenhouse Office (AGO) and the International Council for Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI). The incentive is to work with local government, industry and the community to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As at September 2003 there were 176 local governments, representing over 71% of Australia's population, that are committed to achieving sustainable, long-term reductions in their greenhouse gas emissions through their participation in CCPTM Australia.
  Cities for Climate Protection (CCP) Australia

Clean Ocean Foundation (COF)

The Clean Ocean Foundation was established in 2000.  It is an Australian envNGO charity that aims to stop all forms of pollution in oceans and preserve marine environments. This Foundation works with communities, governments and other NGOs to achieve cleaner ocean environments.  Examples of collaboration include:
  1. Working with Plastic Bag Free Bass Coast to replace single use plastic bags with bags made from re-usable, recycled fabric.  Over 11,000 of these bags have been distributed so far in the Bass Coast region.
  2. Working to implement world's best practices regarding the closure or upgrade of sewerage spillage into coastal environments.  COF’s 14-year campaign resulted in a 400-million-dollar upgrade of the Mornington Peninsula’s sewerage treatment plant which previously contributed to Melbourne’s largest outfall of sewerage. 
Want more information about the Clean Ocean Foundation?

Clean Up Australia

The Clean Up Australia idea was begun in 1989 by Ian Kiernan and Kim McKay. Ian's idea was to make a difference in his own backyard. This simple idea has now become the nation's largest community-based environmental event, Clean Up Australia Day. Visit: www.cleanup.org.au

Climate Action Network Australia

Climate Action Network Australia (CANA) have a vision of “A fair and sustainable Australia free of climate pollution, where people and nature are protected from dangerous climate change.” (www.cana.net.au). They aim to achieve this by supporting their members and their allies to take actions and creating a diverse network with distributed leadership, linking people and organisations that are working towards CANA's vision. Members include the Australian Youth Climate Coalition, GetUp, and Seed amongst the more than 70, many of which are household names, listed on the website. For more information visit: www.cana.net.au

Climate and Health Alliance

The Climate and Health Alliance (CAHA) is an Australian based organisation consisting mainly of health care professionals and stakeholders. The alliance works together to advocate and promote awareness of the effect of climate change and ecological degradation on human health. CAHA works with professionals from all over the health sector including nurses, doctors, psychologists etc, as well as those involved in research and academic institutions. CAHA is a website to find out more about the very real effects the changing environment will have on our bodies and minds. It promotes news, resources, projects and campaigns and is a must for any health care professional or individual needing information relating to human health and the changing climate. Go to www.caha.org.au to find out more.

Climate Alliance

Climate alliance helps company directors and business executives more easily inform themselves about the opportunities and risks presented by climate change.

They are a not-for-profit group with membership-based company that engages with business leaders to help them become better informed about the opportunities and risks presented by climate change.

Since 2009, Climate Alliance have run conferences on various topics of interest to the business community. They have tackled issues such as director fiduciary risk, carbon accounting, energy efficiency, business continuity and the risks associated with investments in the fossil fuel industry.

They offer a wide variety of services from; conferences and seminars, leadership awards, provide networking opportunities and more. Ideal group if you have a business and need assistance with translating jargon that is frequently used to evaluating the risks and opportunities of climate change and how you can leverage these to benefit your business or company.

Currently they are advertising a release of a new book called, Making the Financial System More Sustainable by Dr Paul Fisher, a must-read for anyone working on financial sector policy and sustainability.

For more information visit: https://www.climatealliance.org.au/

Climate Change: Impacts and Responses

Climate Change: Impacts and Responses are a knowledge community brought together by a common concern for scientific policy and perspective regarding climate change. The group is primarily comprised of academics, educators, administrators, researchers, and students who interact through a number of online mediums including social media platforms, scholarly journals and newsletters. The knowledge group also come together in a face-to-face setting at their annual International Conference on Climate Change. The literature and academic material collected by the community includes The International Journal of Climate Change: Impacts and Responses, the On Climate book series, and the Climate Change News Blog, all of which are comprised of contributions from knowledge group members.

For more information, visit http://on-climate.com.

To join the community, attend the conference, and contribute to the knowledge database please go to https://on-climate.com/community

Collectively

Collectively is a global media platform designed to inspire and empower people to make sustainable living the new normal. Its aim is to create and curate compelling content that shows how a sustainable lifestyle can be enriching and aspirational by highlighting the people, places and ideas making it so. Collectively brings these stories to a global stage, in order to collectively shift long term demand and solutions that are better for people and the planet while also providing readers with action they can take today. The platform has full editorial independence yet has been created with the support of many the world's leading multinational companies including Unilever, BT Group, The Coca-Cola Company, Marks & Spencer and Carlsberg.
Visit: www.collectively.org

The Commons Social Change Library

The Commons vision is an Australia that has well informed, skilled, collaborative and effective movements for social and ecological justice. This online library is a space for education and learning. Our collections include articles, manuals, training materials and practical guides to inform and equip you to influence public policy and engage in political structures. Our work includes:
  • monitoring needs and emerging trends;
  • encouraging people to share their knowledge with each other by contributing to the library’s collections;
  • connecting people with the knowledge that will enrich their work; and
  • amplifying existing capacity building endeavours.
The online library can be accessed here.

Community Exchange Network

The Local Exchange Trading System (LETS) is a non-profit community group which enables its members to exchange goods and services with each other without using money.
  • LETS provides a means by which people’s experience, talents, knowledge, labor, energy, time and resources can be used to benefit themselves and others.
  • LETS enables you to choose from any of the goods or services offered by its members, without requiring you to make a direct exchange.
  • LETS is a system of community exchange, rather than individual barter.
TRADING on this website is limited to LETS members, or other members of Community Exchange System: http://www.communityexchange.net.au

The Complete Guide On How To Make Your Business Green

"From short term quick wins to long term strategies, improving your business's green credentials should definitely be on the agenda." UK resource The Complete Guide On How To Make Your Business Green provides some interesting insights, many that can be applied to businesses in other countries This complete and comprehensive guide gives you an introduction to sustainable living as well as green measures, initiatives and schemes, offering useful tips on what you can do to do make your business more eco friendly. Visit: www.autoenrolment.co.uk/guides/green-business.

A Complete Guide to Going Green at Home in 2019 (infographic)

In 2019 going green is a big deal. Even if you’re just thinking about it, getting informed, or have started out, every action will be a big step towards a greener, safer Earth. Going green by no means has to be complicated, and nowadays there is easy access to products, services and communities dedicated to facilitating the going green movement. Visit: https://www.thehousewire.com/going-green-at-home/ to view the inforgraphic.

Condamine Catchment Community Exchange

Condamine Catchment Community Exchange (CCCE) is a cashless bartering network that connects like-minded folk in the Condamine River Catchment. Members can trade goods and services. The group aims to foster community support networks while building a sustainable local economy. The Community Exchange also coordinates a local farmers market showcasing the regions finest produce.
Visit: https://communityexchange.net.au/terms.asp?xid=cond

The Cooperative Research Centres

The Cooperative Research Centres (CRC) Program was established in 1990 to improve the effectiveness of Australia's research effort through bringing together researchers in the public and private sectors with the end users. The CRC Program links researchers with industry and government with a focus towards research application. The close interaction between researchers and the end users is the defining characteristic of the Program. Moreover, it allows end users to help plan the direction of the research as well as to monitor its progress. The website has links to information about CRC's, the Program, Publications, events and media and an online subscription form if you wish to receive to receive news updates from the Cooperative Research Centres Program. For further information visit the Cooperative Research Centre's website at http://crca.asn.au/.

CSIRO Publishing

CSIRO Publishing - operates as an independent science and technology publisher with a global reputation for quality products and services. For books and magazines on non-toxic gardening go to:
www.publish.csiro.au. Also see www.csiro.au.

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The Daily Climate

Staff at The Daily Climate review thousands of mainstream news outlets and scientific journals (from centre right to centre left) to locate stories about climate change. These may include new scientific discoveries, causes, consequences, solutions, and politics. They also publish stories about energy technologies that are being explored as possible solutions. It is not unusual for them to publish several articles from different newspapers covering the same story, as well as multiple editorials and op-eds about the same subject as they believe that readers want to see diverse views and how issues are being covered by the mainstream press. The Daily Climate is published every morning and offers a free daily e-letter with summaries and links to the best 15 stories of the day.Visit: dailyclimate.org


Darling Downs Environment Council

A-snapshot-of-DDEC-and-what-they-do.pdf


Doctors for the Environment

Doctors for the Environment Australia (DEA) is a voluntary organisation of medical doctors in all states and territories. DEA aims to utilise the skills of members of the medical profession to address the ill health resulting from damage to the natural environment at local, national and global levels.
Visit: dea.org.au


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Ecological Footprint Quiz

In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the consumption of various resources (both renewable and non-renewable) throughout the world and the amount of land required to support these resource demands. Based on a complex calculus of elements, this is referred to as an ecological “footprint”. The Redefining Progress organisation has created this very educational online quiz that allows individuals to learn how large their ecological footprint is, based on 15 questions about their personal lifestyle habits. After responding to these questions, visitors will be able to compare their ecological footprint to what other people use around the globe.

Visit www.myfootprint.org/.

The Ecological Law and Governance Association

The Ecological Law and Governance Association (ELGA) seeks to connect and amplify the people, principles, and policies of ecological law and governance. Our mission is to provide a forum and a platform for diverse groups to work together and amplify their voices to transform our current human-centered, growth-focused legal paradigm, to an Earth-centered, ‘ecological law and governance’ paradigm. ELGA’s vision is a just, flourishing world where state and global governance systems better protect the foundations of life.

Learn more at http://www.elgaworld.org/.

Eco Voice

Eco Voice, Australia’s leading Eco E-Newsletter (previously The Environment Newspaper) is the place where you can find the latest free eco information online. It consists of Environmental News, Eco Events, Eco Directory, Eco Guide, and Eco Articles and contains a lot of information regarding climate change, clean energy, awards, eco produces, habitat, tourism, water conservation, leisure, recycling and more. Simply subscribe to its monthly e-newsletter for free at www.ecovoice.com.au.

EducatorLabs

EducatorLab is a small online scholastic library and research database that is accessible worldwide. Volunteers from a variety of backgrounds such as teachers, researchers and doctors work collectively as curators and continuously update the website with new educational resources to be used within classrooms by teachers or by parents and students at home. EducatorLabs has an ever-growing online archive, known as the Resource Bank, which provides access to a wide range of resources from all backgrounds, as well as the opportunity to request information that may not already be provided.

The main goal of this website is to assist and connect with teachers to help them access valuable, high quality information, lesson plans, and activities to use within the classroom. Education is key for a bright future, therefore it is vital to provide the fundamentals for good education. EducatorLabs is always on the lookout for individuals that want to become involved and volunteer with this organisation. Those who may be interested please visit link provided: educatorlabs.org

(Written by Pelin Beklenoglu, HOPE member Qld)

EIANZ

The Australasian Journal of Environmental Management published by the Environment Institute of Australia and New Zealand (EIANZ) features analytical articles about natural resources and environmental management. The Journal is published four times a year and distributed to EIANZ members as part of their membership entitlement. For subscription enquiries, or to enquire about joining the EIANZ, please contact the Institute's head office in Melbourne on 03 9654 7473 or email [email protected] or follow the links at their website at www.eianz.org.

Elementa – Science of the Anthropocene

Elementa is an organisation that focuses on Open Science for the Public Good. Knowledge derived from current journal articles and scientific research is provided to the world with a common goal: combat the challenges presented to the natural world by accelerated human impact. Backed by similar organisations, and a number of US Universities, this non-profit initiative provides high-quality research and information in a timely manner.

In relation to their Open Science for the Public Good mantra, Elementa supports the concept of basic knowledge fostering sustainable solutions. A small volume of knowledge can make a big difference just as several basic steps towards environmental protection can have a positive impact. For more information on Elementa or to view articles and videos please visit the website.

Energy Conservation for Businesses

Editors from Business.com share tips on how to start an energy conservation program for small businesses.

Visit https://www.business.com/articles/small-business-energy-conservation/.

Ethical Consumer Group (Shop Ethical!)

Shop Ethical! is a Melbourne-based not-for-profit designed to educate and empower people to make shopping choices that better reflect their values and to use their consumer power to create a better world. The Shop Ethical! website provides A-F ratings of the companies behind common brands sold in Australia based on their social and environmental impact. It also contains an online store where you can purchase practical, sustainable and ethical products. Shop Ethical website: www.ethical.org.au.

Ethical Directory

Ethical Directory provides information about ethical and green businesses and products. Categories include construction, health, beauty, education, books/magazines, energy, business services, entertainment, recycling, charities, fair trade, shopping, retreats, computers/internet, conservation, food/restaurants and Transport/Travel. For more information go to www.ethicaldirectory.ca.

Earthwatch Institute - Expeditions

The Expeditions section of the Earthwatch Institute website promotes ecotourism for people with a passion for protecting our planet and its wealth of species. Volunteers are invited to join respected scientists in the field where they’re investigating critical environmental issues. You can search for expeditions by location, date or research type – Archaeology and Culture, Climate Change, Ocean Health or Wildlife and Ecosystems. Costs and details of the expeditions are clearly listed, making it easy to find what you need to know. The Earthwatch website in general also contains a great number of scientific articles covering every facet of their environmental research and education, links to publications by their scientists, many news articles and the opportunity to donate to Earthwatch’s research. Earthwatch ’s mission is to promote a world in which we live within our means and in balance with nature; and their website is an extension of this objective.

Go to au.earthwatch.org/expeditions to find out more.

Earthwise Harmony

Lists Sustainability and Environment Centres in each state of Australia. Many have displays and information and encourage input of ideas.


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Foundation for National Parks & Wildlife (FNPW)

https://www.fnpw.org.au/ The FNPW aims to safeguard Australian wilderness & wildlife for future generations.  Working in partnership with scientists, community and indigenous groups, individuals such as landowners and government agencies, the FNPW raises awareness and funds so that partner organizations can carry out the everyday projects including weed control, tree planting, conservation, and protecting species. The FNPW has enabled conservation projects throughout Australia for the past 49 years providing over $60 million in funding.  The FNPW website provides information about current projects and how to apply for grant funding.  Grants are provided for education programs and projects such as the rehabilitation of fire-affected Kangaroo Island where shelters are being built for displaced fauna.  Working in partnership with global envNGO ‘One Tree Planted’, 1 million trees will be planted in fire affected regions in Australia as part of a five-year project to restore habitats.  Monetary and land donations, volunteering as one of the over 10,000 individual wildlife carers and corporate volunteering are valuable ways to support the FNPW. Want more information about the FNPW?
  •  Telephone: 1800 898 626
  • Email: [email protected]
  • To view FNPW News, access the website link https://www.fnpw.org.au/news-and-events or sign up for the newsletter by registering via the ‘Newsletter’ or ‘Sign In’ button on the Home page menu.
  •  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FNPW.1970/

Friends of the Escarpment Parks - Toowoomba

Friends of the Escarpment Parks (FEP) are a Toowoomba based volunteer group assisting with hands-on maintenance and management of Toowoomba’s bushland escarpment parks. Volunteers participate in bushland rehabilitation, cataloguing native and exotic plants as well as propagating native plants for regeneration. Park care group volunteers meet regularly to help with bush regeneration projects.

In 2010-11 Friends of the Escarpment Parks produced the book Environmental Weeds of the Toowoomba Region.

Visit the Facebook page for more information.

Future Earth

Future Earth brings together research, innovation and collaboration from people and professionals around the world committed to environment and sustainability. It has easy access to the latest news, blogs, events, research, products and ways to be involved in research and sustainability on a local and global scale. Future earth has a free online platform for those that wish to communicate with others via public or private community groups, share reports and documents, follow event calendars, track job opportunities and many more. With 20 Global research Projects, a focus on early career professionals (with travel grants), many different research initiatives and funding and contacts all around the globe, this website is a must for anyone seeking scientific based research, news and connections. Visit futureearth.org.

Food Plant Solutions Rotary Action Group

Food Plant Solutions Rotary Action Group, creates educational materials that explain what nutritional food is, why our bodies need it and how to grow and use it. We focus on what are often neglected and underutilized plants, plants that are growing in and adapted to their environment and are high in the most beneficial nutrients. Our materials are designed to empower people, in particularly women, so that they can make informed choices on what plants to grow and eat that will nutritiously feed themselves and their families. This project is cost effective, proven to work, sustainable and enables self-sufficiency.

Visit:Food Plant Solutions

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GAIA (Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives)

The Global Alliance for Incinerator Alternatives is a global network that challenges polluting waste disposal methods and works to build an economy where all products are reused, repaired or recycled. The scale of what we trash and how fast we trash it is creating a worldwide crisis, with major health, environmental, and economic impacts for us all, and especially for low-income communities of colour. We support grassroots, community-led efforts to transform local waste systems, challenge harmful trash-burning, and advocate for better products and policies.
Website: www.no-burn.org. Blog: www.zerowasteworld.org.

The Global Footprint Network

The Global Footprint Network supports a sustainable economy by advancing the “Ecological Footprint”, a measurement and management tool that makes the reality of planetary limits relevant to decision makers throughout the world. The site offers information, tools and services, standards and resources to back the environmental footprint concept. www.footprintnetwork.org

Footprint Calculator

Good Environmental Choice

Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA) is Australia’s leading certifier of environmentally preferable goods and services. GECA is not-for-profit, independent, and the only Australian member of the Global Ecolabelling Network (GEN). Our life-cycle based ecolabel was established to encourage the development of sustainable goods and services and now provides public access to over 2000 certified products.
Visit: www.geca.org.au

Green Building Advisor

Green Building Advisor offers practical information regarding designing, building and remodeling energy-efficient homes. The website features a comprehensive encyclopedia of articles and videos covering every step in the green building process, from layout and design to jobsite practices to the actual structure and mechanical systems of your green home The site is home to a blog proffering advice, news and opinion from the industry. Guests can browse a product directory and join an online forum to ask and answer questions from like-minded people.
Visit: http://www.greenbuildingadvisor.com/qa

Green Lifestyle Magazine

The Green Lifestyle Magazine is sponsored by Macquarie University. Ther are numerous features about simple sustainable living, e.g. growing native plants

Green Home Resource Guide (ReviewLab)

Having an energy-efficient (or “green”) home is good for the environment and, in the long run, good for your budget. We put together this resource guide to help you start reaping the benefits of going green. The more than 50 resources in this guide include general information about what a green home is, resources for green building, energy and water conservation resources, and many more. Visit www.reviewlab.com/green-home-guide

The Green Vehicle Guide

The Green Vehicle Guide provides on the environmental performance of new vehicles sold in Australia. You can use this site to see how vehicles compare on greenhouse and air pollution emissions. When buying a new car, use the site to identify the vehicle with the highest , which meets your needs.
Visit www.greenvehicleguide.gov.au/ .

Greenpages Australia

Leading eco directory & magazine of environmentally sustainable products, services, news, events, articles and guides for your lifestyle and business. Including green power, organic products, monitoring equipement, foods & beverages, gifts, clothing, children & baby, weddings, building materials, house & home, books and much, much more!

NB:Greenpages Australia seems to be no longer active.

Greenpeace Australia

Greenpeace takes action to protect our natural home, now and in the future.
Visit: www.greenpeace.org.au/

Grist

Grist has been covering environmental news and providing a cutting commentary on the environmental misadventures of mankind since 1999. Topics covered include climate, energy, food, cities, politics, business and green living all presented in a way that gets people talking; each month Grist reaches over two million readers and over half then take action based on the content. Grist is a genuinely entertaining and informative site, if you like a side of sass with your news then this site is for you. Visit: grist.org


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Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change

www.ipcc.ch/ The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is a scientific intergovernmental body supported by the United Nations and was first established in 1988. The IPCC produces reports that support the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which is the main international treaty on climate change, with the ultimate aim of "stabilizing greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous human-induced interference with the climate system". The IPCC was involved in the “Climategate” in 2009, during which some climate researchers were revealed to over-estimate the severity of climate change. This has led to controversy and suspicion about the factuality of human-incurred climate change. However the IPCC has also been criticized to under-estimate the climate change and relevant risks on the other hand. Having survived from the criticisms, the IPCC now concerns more about how humans will live with climate change as it has already happened. The IPCC writes its report based on published literature, which includes peer-reviewed and non-peer-reviewed sources. It has scientist and other experts volunteering to write and review parts of the report, which are then reviewed by its member governments of more than 120 countries. On its official website the IPCC provide most of its reports and supporting data to be downloaded. Its activities, calendar and meeting documentation can also be found there. The IPCC also offers scholarships to students worldwide who are doing studies on climate-related issues.

The organization’s Calendar lists the IPCC schedule of events from 2018 through to 2021. All this information can be viewed in six languages.

Want more information about the IPCC?

  • Contacts: https://www.ipcc.ch/about/contact/
  • Website: https://www.ipcc.ch/
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IPCC/
  •  News: https://www.ipcc.ch/news/

International and Australian Environmental Non-Government Organisations

 List of Environmental Orgainsations

Environmental Non-Government Organizations (envNGOs) aim to determine the influence of humans on the environment and implement ways to protect and monitor the environment against misuse or degradation.

NGOs are classified by their type (Orientation) and Level of Operation. While envNGOs may include charities, trusts, and non-government organizations, there can be government involvement as well. An envNGOs ‘Level of Operation’ depends on the scale of the work of the organization. This determines whether the NGO is community-based (local), city-wide (regional), state and national or international (global). This article will provide information about two International and two Australian envNGOs.

The envNGO websites will have links to a range of social media platforms.


International envNGOs

United National Environment Program (UNEP)

Established in 1972, UNEP aims to coordinate environmental activities undertaken by the UN. UNEP’s mission is to “provide leadership and encourage partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing, and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations”. UNEP has made significant contributions to world-wide environmental change with achievements such as establishing the 1987 Montreal Protocol for limiting gas emissions responsible for thinning the ozone layer and developing the 2012 Minamata Convention to limit toxic mercury. Available in 8 language options, UNEP’s website showcases News and Stories and a comprehensive list of global events with information about how individuals and organizations can be involved. Exploring the ‘What we do’ link on the website reveals 20 diverse areas of environmental activity undertaken by UNEP. Recently UNEP has compiled vital information relating to the COVID-19 outbreak and the environmental implications for humans, animals and the earth. Type ‘COVID-19’ into the website’s ‘Search’ function for more detail. Want more information about UNEP? Telephone: +41-22-730-8208/54/84 Website: https://www.unenvironment.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unep/ Sign up for updates at https://www.unenvironment.org/subscribe or access UNEP News and Stories at https://www.unenvironment.org/news-and-storie

https://www.unenvironment.org/


It's So Natural

Created by Alan Hayes It's So Natural offers a wealth of information on natural alternatives for home, health and garden. See - www.itssonatural.com


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Keep Australia Beautiful Network (KAB)

Keep Australia Beautiful Network (KAB), consisting of an independent federation network in each State and Territory, is a national organisation that is recognised as Australia’s independent litter prevention thought and practice leader, for a litter free and sustainable Australia.

Keep Australia Beautiful National Association is the national operator for the Eco-Schools program in Australia.

Eco-Schools is an international program of the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), and aims to empower students to be the change our sustainable world needs by engaging them in fun, action-orientated learning. Australia is the 55th country to launch.

Some 'Resource' links from the KAB website are:

The Keep Australia Beautiful (KAB) website has a double menu for navigation their site at the top of the 'home' page. The top menu is their organisational menu, while the menu below indicates how local government, businesses, communities, schools and individuals are able to be involved in various activities of the KAB organisation.

For full information visit: kab.org.au/

Kitchen Garden Foundation

Kitchen Garden Foundation is a non-for profit organisation established by Stephanie Alexander to raise funds to support Kitchen Garden Schools across Australia. It is a program that introduces pleasurable food education for young children, leading children to more healthy food through developing their own productive food garden and an exciting kitchen as an integral part of the school curriculum.
See www.kitchengardenfoundation.org.au/

Knowledge Hound

The site is the Web's biggest directory of free how-to links, and the wide variety (from alternative energy to programming to crafts and more) offers something for everyone.
Visit: www.knowledgehound.com


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'Living Smart Homes'

'Living Smart Homes' is a free program of the Sunshine Coast Regional Council and Moreton Bay Regional Council. If you are residents in the council area and over the age of 18, you could become a registered user participating in Living Smart Homes Program and make more sustainable lifestyle choices by completing four living smart modules: energy, water, transport, and waste. Find out more information and become a part of it, simply visit livingsmartqld.com.au/homes/

Future Earth

“Working with landholders to create habitat for our wildlife”
Many of us will be familiar with Land for Wildlife, having seen the iconic “Land for Wildlife” sign on various rural property fences or gates. The organisation has more the 7000 members in South East Queensland and is part of a network of other Land for Wildlife groups across Australia and New Zealand. Most members are private landholders who live on their properties but membership also includes some weekenders, schools, golf courses and government corporations. To be eligible you must own a property in South East Queensland with bushland on it, or be prepared to re-instate bushland.

Membership is free and would involve a one-on-one visit by your local Land for Wildlife Officer. This is so that they can help you develop a plan for your property which integrates nature conservation with other activities or business on your property (eg, residential / grazing / tourism).

Visit www.lfwseq.org.au.


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The Mesothelioma Center

The Mesothelioma Center at Asbestos.com is the nation's most trusted mesothelioma resource. Our core purpose is advocacy, awareness and connecting people to the best mesothelioma resources.

As you may know asbestos is a very dangerous mineral found in older homes. Our Handling and Disposal guide covers the dangers of handling asbestos, how to identify it, current regulations, and more. We wanted to make it a goal to help spread awareness on the dangers of handling asbestos and why it's important to let professionals remove and dispose of it properly.
To access our guide, please visit: https://www.asbestos.com/exposure/handling-disposing-asbestos/

We also have an Australian page with more specific information that you might be interested in. Read more of this at https://www.asbestos.com/mesothelioma/australia/

Mesothelioma Veterans Center

Mesothelioma Veterans Center at Mesotheliomaveterans.org is proud to support mesothelioma patients and their families with information and resources on treatments, specialists, cancer centers, financial options, and more.

Malignant mesothelioma is a rare but serious cancer of the lining of the lungs or abdomen. It is most commonly caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos exposure occurred during military service in over 30% of all mesothelioma cases. Veterans from all branches of service are at risk. Vets of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps hold the highest risk of developing mesothelioma.

Want to read more on this? Please visit https://www.mesotheliomaveterans.org/


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Nature is speaking

Nature is speaking is a product made by Conservation International, where delicate posters can be downloaded from the website so people can share with friends and colleagues. Short films with Hollywood super stars participation tell stories and facts about nature and important aspects of nature, such as water, soil, ocean, and forest. These films enclose that nature does not need humans, but humans rely on nature. So when people are encouraged to take action to protect the environment, they are actually asked to protect human species from being harmed and abandoned by nature. It is easy to support natural conservation. HP is the sponsor for the million dollar hashtag programme, which means whenever the website is shared and message is spread out on social media HP will donate a dollar to the conservation international up to one million dollars. Other than that, donations and pledges are options that can be chosen online.

Please visit the website for further information: natureisspeaking.org

New Scientist

First published in 1956, New Scientist is a weekly science and technology magazine read by 778,593 people worldwide each week. Featuring a selection of the latest news stories from the worlds of science and technology, alongside in-depth features exploring the latest ideas that affect the world and how we understand it, reviews of the latest culturally relevant books, films or art and stunning imagery from around the world and beyond. The New Scientist online Features news, in-depth articles, blogs, opinion, video and much more.
See for yourself at www.newscientist.com.

New Economy Network Australia

New Economy Network Australia (NENA) is network of organisations and individuals working to create an ecologically healthy and socially just society by transforming Australia’s economic system.

NENA aims to facilitate connections, showcase and promote innovative projects, build peer-to-peer learning and use collective strategies to create and advocate for change. So together we can build a strong movement of people demanding, creating and benefiting from a ‘new’ economy.

NENA has five foundational principles that shape their work:

  • Ecological Sustainability: ensuring that economic activity respects and operates within ecological limits, bioregional health and planetary boundaries.
  • Social Justice: That everyone can participate and benefit from economic activity in inclusive and equitable ways.
  • Democracy: That economic decision-making is participatory, inclusive and transparent and emphasises collective stewardship and management of economic resources, activities and outcomes
  • Place-based/ Emphasising Locality: That building strong, local/place-based economies.
  • First Nations People in Australia: That working in solidarity with First Nations Peoples’ is vital to creating a new economy in Australia.

They are very active on Facebook in sharing relevant articles and run regular webinars on various topics. A must follow if you wish to learn more about the economics behind achieving a climate friendly world.

Please visit the website for further information: https://www.neweconomy.org.au


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The Organics Directory

Since 1997 The Organics Directory Poster has been distributed to people and businesses connected with or interested in all aspects of the organic industry; producers, growers, wholesalers, retailers and manufacturers, the public, wholistic practitioners and medical colleges, retail outlets, field days, media as well as government and industry bodies. Web: www.australianorganicdirectory.com.au

NB: The Organics Directory website no longer seems to be active. Try the Australian Organic & Natural Directory - www.australianorganicdirectory.com.au or the Organic Food Directory.

OzGREEN

OzGREEN educates people around the world, enabling them to take action to improve their environment. For over 20 years OzGREEN has engaged, equipped and enabled people to become leaders of positive social change.

Visit: www.ozgreen.org/.


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Paul Gilding's Website

This is the personal website of Paul Gilding, who is an Australian environmentalist and a former executive director of Greenpeace international. He also established and ran two companies focused on energy sustainability, which pioneered the way of social entrepreneurship in this realm.

He is the author of the book The Great Disruption: Why the Climate Crisis Will Bring On the End of Shopping and the Birth of a New World (2011), in which he tried to raise people’s conscious of a possible ending of current economic world due to climate, environment and ecological issues, and brought forth by ongoing financial crises. Rather different from many other environmentalists, he is optimistic in believing that people working together can struggle through the crisis and save human civilization, and by then, will adopt a new form of social life by “reinventing the global economy and our model of social progress”.

On his website Paul keeps following up latest trends in economy, environment, energy, climate and resource issues. One of his latest articles is on progress of clean energy industry, in which he gave us an analysis of a profound scenario. There are also valuable comments to his articles from various people. Maybe you are the next.
paulgilding.com

Permaculture

Permaculture Features design and construction of permaculture systems for a highly productive edible landscape, sustainable land use and permaculture training. It is part of the Sustainable Earth Technologies website.
Visit www.sustainable.com.au/permaculture.html

Permaculture Research Institute Of Australia

This site provides a range of information articles on permaculture, a discussion forum, notices about events and significant speakers/visitors and blog posts from individuals talking about and practicing permaculture on a daily basis.
permaculturenews.org

Planet Ark

Planet Ark aims to show people and business the many ways that they can reduce their day to day impact on the environment.
See - planetark.org

Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research

The Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research addresses the science of global change, climate impact and sustainable development through research, system analysis and modeling. The website presents results of this research, relevant and regularly updated news as well as a helpful range of research services and tools.
Visit www.pik-potsdam.de

Practical Environmentalist

Practical Environmentalist is a blog that tries to keep you updated with news and tips about the practical aspect of being green.
Visit: www.practicalenvironmentalist.com


Protect the Bush Alliance

A-snapshot-of-PTBA-and-its-work.pdf


Public Transport Users Association

Founded in 1976 as the Train Travellers Association, the Public Transport Users Association is the recognised consumer organisation representing passengers of all forms of public transport. They are a non-profit, voluntary organisation, with no political affiliations. They lobby governments and public transport authorities in the interest of all users of public transport. They work with other bodies and through the media to promote public transport and educate the community about the benefits of sustainable transport policies. They undertake research into transport policies which will improve services and make Melbourne and regional Victoria a better place in which to live.
Visit: ptua.org.au


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Queensland Conservation Council

Queensland Conservation Council is celebrating its 40 years of commitment to protection, conservation and sustainability of Queensland’s environment. Campaigns page contains information on Climate Change, Save Water, Nature Conservation, State Issues, Grow Local, and Coral Sea Heritage Park. Current news, projects, and upcoming events are available in the site.
Go to www.qldconservation.org.au


A-snapshot-of-QCC-and-its-main-priorities.pdf


Queensland Trust for Nature

Queensland is a biodiversity hotspot. Private landowners have an important role in protecting Queensland’s natural places and biodiversity. You can join over 500 Queensland landowners who have created protected areas on their land. Nearly 4 million hectares has already been protected. Queensland Trust for Nature would love to work with you to see if your land could be a Nature Refuge, safeguarding our natural places and biodiversity for the future.
Go to www.qtfn.org.au


Queensland Water and Land Carers

A-snapshot-of-QWaLC-and-its-roles.pdf


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Rainwater Tanks

For useful information on the installation and use of rainwater tanks
visit www.savewater.com.au

Renewable Energy Focus magazine

The website for Renewable Energy Focus Magazine. Provides up to the minute business and technological development news for the renewable energy industry. Updated daily with news, features, blogs, downloads as well as an extensive online archive. Visit http://www.renewableenergyfocus.com

Recycling Near You

Recycling Near You provides information on recycling services in your local government area. This site is sponsored by Planet Ark.
See - www.RecyclingNearYou.com.au

Reverse Garbage

Reverse Garbage is a not-for-profit co-operative that sells industrial discards, off-cuts and over-runs to the public for creative and practical uses, reducing the amount of waste going to landfill. A huge variety of materials, including; perspex, cloth, ceramic tiles, closed-cell foam and foam sheeting, stickers, cardboard, wood, hessian sacks, paper rolls, bubble wrap, toys, craft supplies and dozens of other useful items can be re-used by schools, artists, craftspeople, home handypeople and the general community. There are Reverse Garbage co-operatives in Qld, NSW, Tas, Vic and ACT.
See: https://reversegarbagequeensland.com.au/

Routledge Environment & Sustainability

Routledge Environment and Sustainability- the leading global publisher in the inter-disciplinary field of Environment & Sustainability studies offering a broad array of titles from accessible introductions and supplementary readings to cutting-edge research and reference in areas as diverse as Sustainable Development.
Visit: www.routledge.com/sustainability


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Seedsavers Network

Seedsavers Network: preserving the genetic basis of tomorrow's food:<br/>See - seedsavers.net

Shop Ethical! (Ethical Consumer Group)

Shop Ethical! is a Melbourne-based not-for-profit designed to educate and empower people to make shopping choices that better reflect their values and to use their consumer power to create a better world. The Shop Ethical! website provides A-F ratings of the companies behind common brands sold in Australia based on their social and environmental impact. It also contains an online store where you can purchase practical, sustainable and ethical products Shop Ethical! website: www.ethical.org.au.

Shop Smart, Buy Green

Shop Smart, Buy Green: "This consumer’s guide to saving money and reducing environmental impacts" is a readable introduction to understanding the impacts of what we buy, considering options and making the best choices for the environment and ourselves based on a range of criteria including: What is it made from? How was it produced? How is it packaged? Where was it produced? Howe efficiently does it work? Can it be repaired? How will it be disposed of? The booklet also gives information on how to contact industry, and how we might move towards a sustainable future. Available in hard copy from Department of the Environment and Energy on 1800 803 772, or downloadable: http://www.environment.gov.au/archive/settlements/industry/corporate/eecp/publications/pubs/consumersguide.pdf.

Soils for Life

Soils for Life is a registered environmental organisation chaired by Australia's former Governor General, Major General The Honourable Michael Jeffery, AC AO(Mil) CVO MC (Retd). The Soils for Life program encourages wide adoption of regenerative landscape management practices to restore landscape health and produce quality and nutrient-dense food and fibre. By applying regenerative practices, be it in a kitchen garden or on a broadacre farm, we can restore natural systems through which we can maximise and water use efficiency, improve soil health, nutrient cycling and biodiversity – to deliver sustainable production and ecosystem services for the benefit of us all. Find out more about Soils for Life projects, the importance of having healthy soil, regenerative landscape management and read case studies of regenerative agriculture in practice at: www.soilsforlife.org.au

Sunrise Project

www.sunriseproject.org.au The Sunrise Project Australia Limited was registered as a Company limited by guarantee in mid 2012 with the following charitable objectives:
  1. Protect, preserve and enhance the natural environment;
  2. Protect the natural environment from pollution and overexploitation;
  3. Support and empower individuals, communities, governments and industry to make changes required to prevent dangerous climate change;
  4. Facilitate public education about, and promote the transition to, a clean energy economy; and
  5. Educate, empower and support communities to protect natural assets and promote the sustainable and equitable use of natural resources in their local areas.
The Sunrise Project has endorsement as a charity from the Australian Taxation Office and is registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission. Our overall objectives are to:
  1. Protect natural assets and community health
    • Protect clean water resources
    • Protect farmland
    • Protect community health
    • Protect the Great Barrier Reef
    • Protect biodiversity and special natural places
  2. Hasten the transition to a clear environment
    • Promote renewable energy
    • Prevent large scale greenhouse pollution from fossil fuelsine life and coral, Great Barrier Reef
To achieve these objectives, we use the following key strategies:
  • Facilitate and promote community education in relation to the impacts of resource extraction and the transition to a low carbon economy;         
  • Monitor and ensure industry compliance with existing regulations;     
  • Improve regulation and government policy affecting resource extraction;    
  • Expose corruption and undue political influence in the regulatory process relating to mining and energy;      
  • Build the capacity of communities to participate in decision-making concerning resource extraction in their local areas.

Sustainability Victoria

Working with schools, state and local governments, community groups and individuals, Sustainability Victoria is a website where Victorians can find demonstrations of sustainable resource use which will reduce people’s everyday environmental impacts. In the site, you can become involved in programs designed to increase the sustainability, find a service, take action at home and work, or get informed with up-to-date research and publications. Go to www.sustainability.vic.gov.au

The Sustainable Engineering Society

http://seng.org.au/ The Sustainable Engineering Society (SENG) was established in 1994 with the mission of working towards environmental sustainability. The Society is affiliated with the Environmental Engineering College, and also a constitutional part of Engineers Australia. The society builds up connections among professionals from different fields of engineering and science, to facilitate communication and co-ordination on research, education and information dissemination in sustainable engineering. It also builds up collaboration among institutions, governments, industries, community organisations and societies in setting guidelines and standards, promoting attitudes and practices, and providing expert advice on engineering solutions for environmental sustainability. The society also endeavours to incorporate environmental sustainability principles into engineering education and professional practice. The Society is managed by a National Board of members elected from local Chapter membership in each Division. Currently local Chapters have been formed in Victoria, Sydney, Newcastle, Western Australia, Queensland and the ACT.

Sustainable Brands

Sustainable Brands is home for the global community of business innovators who are shaping the future of commerce world wide. Since 2006, our goal has been to inspire, engage and equip today's business and brand leaders to prosper for the near and long term by leading the way to a sustainably abundant future. See - www.sustainablebrands.com

Sustainable Gardening Australia

Sustainable Gardening Australia (SGA) is a not for profit association totally committed to achieving real, continually improving and easily understood environmental solutions for gardeners. SGA provides advice on gardening practices and clearly identifies low environmental impact products. See - www.sgaonline.org.au

Sustainable Living Festival

The National Sustainable Living Festival aims to accelerate the uptake of sustainable living and seeks solutions to global warming that will return the planet to a safe climate as fast as humanly possible. The Festival raises awareness and provides tools for change by showcasing leading solutions to the ecological and social challenges we face. Attracting over 150,000 visits annually the Festival engages with hundreds of organisations and individuals to stage Australia’s largest sustainability festival. The Festival’s three week program engages individuals and communities across Victoria to host and promote sustainability events. Celebrating the very best examples of ecological and social sustainability the event embraces interactive workshops, talks, demonstrations, artworks, exhibits, films and live performances. We invite you to join in the celebrations and help accelerate the uptake of sustainable living. Visit: www.slf.org.au to find out more

Sustainable Living Foundation

Sustainable Living Foundation (SLF) specialises in the promotion of sustainable living practices for existing projects programs and organisations. We are a ‘Can-Do’ organisation offering individuals, government organisations and business positive, solution oriented actions that address the challenges we collectively face. The Sustainable Living Foundation was established to bring together committed individuals and the expertise, funding and resources needed to achieve sustainability. We provide assistance to community or projects. The Sustainable Living Foundation’s vision is to accelerate the uptake of sustainable living practices and principles which will protect and improve our environment. For further information visit www.slf.org.au .

Sustainability and Environment Centres

Earthwise Harmony has a list of sustainability and environmental centres in Australia, listed by state. For further information visit Earthwise Harmony.

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Thank Your Garden

Welcome To ThankYourGarden.com!

We share our personal experiences and honest reviews about gardening. Our team’s experiences and opinions act as a litmus test for the first time gardener.

Alongside, we introduce resources and guides to achieve excellent gardening experience related to the garden working.

Start exploring our site at https://thankyourgarden.com/

Toowoomba District Swap and Share

Toowoomba District Swap & Share is a Facebook group that provides a platform for swapping and sharing home grown produce in an informal and friendly setting. Members share tips and recipes as well as general chat about garden related subjects. The group also organises a regular and well-attended, family friendly social swap meets at local Toowoomba venues. Visit https://www.facebook.com/pages/Toowoomba-District-Home-Produce-Swap-and-Share/911880845510970


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United National Association of Australia

https://www.unaa.org.au/about/state-teams/queensland/

The United Nations Association of Australia (UNAA) aims to inform, inspire and engage all Australians about the critical work, goals and values of the United Nations to create a safer, fairer and more sustainable world. This is done through innovative programs, projects and events, education, professional knowledge-sharing, partnering with organisations, and research and policy development.

UNAA’s Strategic Plan 2018-2023 considers implementing the following five strategic priorities:

  1. Deliver high-quality national programs and events.
  2. Develop and implement a credible international program as a member of the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA).
  3. Conduct education and undertake research to inform Australians about the United Nations and to provide timely policy advice to the Australian Government and WFUNA.
  4. Sustainably grow the UNAA’s reach and resources through strong partnerships, a network of valued and committed volunteers and interns, and dedicated professional staff.
  5. Ensure good governance, a collaborative culture, effective communications, and streamlined administration across the UNAA.

To receive all latest news and events, subscribe UNAA newsletter at https://www.unaa.org.au/news/the-unaa-newsletter/. Also, follow them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter at @unassociationofaustralia

United Nations (UN) Department of Economic and Social Affairs: Sustainable Development

https://sdgs.un.org/goals

The Division for Sustainable Development Goals (DSDG) provides scientific support for the thematic issues related to the goals such as water, energy, climate, oceans, urbanization, transport, science and technology, the Global Sustainable Development Report (GSDR), partnerships and Small Island Developing States. This work is used to strengthen the environmental policy and the sustainable development initiatives in several priority areas that include sustainable development goals, green economy, climate change, etc. This division is focused on 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which encourage all countries to work in a global partnership. These goals are:
  1. No Poverty,
  2. Zero Hunger,
  3. Good Health and Well-Being,
  4. Quality Education,
  5. Gender Equality,
  6. Clean Water and Sanitation,
  7. Affordable and Clean Energy,
  8. Decent Work and Economic Growth,
  9. Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure,
  10. Reduced Inequalities,
  11. Sustainable Cities and Communities,
  12. Responsible Consumption and Production,
  13. Climate action,
  14. Life Below Water,
  15. Life on Land,
  16. Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, and
  17. Partnerships for the Goals.
There are useful resources that can be downloaded in the following link: https://sdgs.un.org/publications . Also, to know more this Non-profit organisation, follow them on Facebook and Twitter at @SustDev.

United Nations (UN) Habitat

The UN-Habitat’s webpage has a number of useful tools and resources. The seven focus areas/outcomes, govern all items on the webpage. A summary of the focus areas described in detail in the UN-Habitat’s current strategic plan from 2014 to 2019 are as follows
Focus Area/Outcome 1: Urban legislation, land and governance
The total number of cities, regional and national authorities that have:
  • established systems for improved access to land, and access to basic services for all
  • adopted enabling legislation, and
  • put in place effective decentralized governance/guidelines that fosters equitable sustainable urban development, including urban safety.
Focus Area/Outcome 2: Urban planning and design
The total quantity of partner city, regional and national authorities that have
  • Community feedback loop on polices/standards; from all members of society
  • Connected equitable cities that are resilient to climate change
  • implemented urban policies, plans and designs that apply principles and standards derived from best practices
Focus Area/Outcome 3: Urban economy
The total count of city, regional and national authorities that have:
  • adopted or implemented improved urban strategies and policies supportive of local economic development,
  • inclusive economic participation,
  • created of decent jobs and livelihoods, and
  • enhanced municipal finance
Focus Area/Outcome 4: Urban basic
Tally of city, regional and national authorities have:
  • implemented policies for increasing equitable access to urban basic services and
  • improved the standard of living of the urban poor - including safe drinking water, adequate sanitation, waste collection and management, domestic energy, and public transport.
Focus Area/Outcome 5: Housing and slum upgrading
The sum of city, regional and national authorities that have:
  • implemented policies for increasing access to adequate housing and
  • improved the standard of living in existing slums/poorer parts of the urban population.
Focus Area/Outcome 6: Risk reduction and rehabilitation
The entire amount of partner city, regional and national authorities that have:
  • implemented and integrated risk reduction strategies and programs in their urban planning and management systems, and
  • focus the integration on the more vulnerable population
Focus Area/Outcome 7: Research and capacity development
The number of partner city, regional and nation authorities and other partners that have:
  • formulating and implement evidence based urban policies and programs and
  • improving public awareness of the benefits of and conditions necessary for sustainable urbanisation.
UN-HABITAT: http://unhabitat.org/

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Water rating

To find the water conservation rating of your appliances, dishwasher, washing machines, taps, toilets and shower heads and find information and a list of recommended products.

Visit www.wsaa.asn.au.

The Wilderness Society

The Wilderness Society is a community-based environmental protection organisation. It works to safeguard our sources of clean water and air, to tackle devastating climate change, to create a safe future for life on Earth, and to give a better world to our children. The majority of the work is in Australia, with a strong focus on natural environments and the role they play in keeping our world safe

Visit: www.widlerness.org.au.

Womens' Voices

Women’s Voices for the Earth is a national organisation that works to eliminate toxic chemicals that impact women’s health by changing consumer behaviors, corporate practices and government policies. Visit: www.womensvoices.org

World Bank

This is an entry to the Publications and Documents from the World Bank. Through the section ‘Online Bookstore’, you can gain access to the World Bank’s formal publications covering the full range of economic and social development. ‘Documents & Reports’ contains over 65,000 documents, downloadable for free. Archives of the Banks official records and IMF-World Bank Libraries are also available. Go to http://www.worldbank.org/reference/

World Economic Forum

The World Economic Forum is the International Organization for Public-Private Cooperation.

The Forum engages the foremost political, business and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas.

Visit www.weforum.org/.

World Ocean Observatory

A place of exchange for ocean information, education and public discourse about the future of the ocean and its implication for human survival. Incorporating THE CULTURAL OCEAN, a survey of maritime arts, cultural manifestations and research tools; The Physical Ocean, the UN Atlas of the Oceans, UNESCO Ocean Portal, NOAA, NASA, Census of Marine Life, climate, and other useful sites; The World Ocean Directory, an indexed network of more than 20,000 organisations worldwide with ocean interests; The World Ocean Forum, a digest of breaking news, monthly letter, publications, exhibits, and media; FORUM EVENTS include dynamic, media-rich sites on critical ocean topics such as Ocean Acidification and Cities and Oceans; and THE WORLD OCEAN CLASSROOM, an inventory of curricula, portraits of ocean exemplars and schools, and listings of on-line educational resources for global distribution. Visit http://www.thew2o.net

WWF Australia

Some leading conservationists established World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in 1961 to financially support global conservation movement. It becomes the most influential conservation organisation in the world. WWF Australia was built in 1978 as a part of WWF international network to administrate programmes in Australia and Oceania region. It is far more than an endangered animal protection organisation. Instead, WWF Australia aims to stop degradation of the environment and lead to a harmonic future between humans and nature by working with government, industries, and communities. This mission will be achieved by: biological diversity conservation, sustainable usage of renewable natural resources, and waste reduction and pollution reduction.

Visit: www.wwf.org.au/.

WWOOF in Australia

WWOOF Au

Willing Workers on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a worldwide movement linking volunteers with organic farmers and growers to promote cultural and educational experiences based on trust and non-monetary exchanges, helping to build a sustainable global community. Volunteers have the opportunity to work 4 – 6 hours per day on a host farm of their choosing, while getting their meals and accommodation provided. There is a small cost for a 12 or 6month membership with WWOOF, and both volunteers and host farms can use the website to connect. WWOOFing is a hands-on way of learning about organic farming while undertaking eco-friendly tourism around Australia and many other places

Members are able to search for opportunities in their area of interest and then reach out to desired connections. The website also provides lists of agents in each state through which you can join WWOOF, a blog and a limited shop

Go to wwoof.com.au.