Rethos.com - Enviroveg's Global Feed

Santropol Roulant

Sat, 20 Sep 2008 23:26:04 -0400

Santropol Roulant is an award-winning community organization founded and run by young people in Montreal. We bring people together across generations and cultures through an innovative approach to meals-on-wheels, and by engaging youth to take an active role in their community. Santropol Roulant uses food as a vehicle to create trust and build bridges between individuals in a city where isolation among the elderly is the highest in Canada.

We’re pleased to announce the launch of the Rainforest Alliance SmartHouse and TreeHouse, two new interactive tools designed to introduce Web site visitors to the people, places and processes that stand behind production of sustainable goods.

Our SmartHouse -- complete with kitchen, living room and backyard -- ...

Hello from Big Sur - Alec Henderson

Sat, 05 Jul 2008 10:14:49 -0400

Hello everyone, After spending two months deep in the mountains of California's Central coast I and the majority of monks at the Tassajara Monastery have been evacuated due to the recent fires. My friends at the LA Times wrote a front page article http://www.latimes.com/news/local/politics/cal/la-me-fires28-2008jun28,0,4613015,full.story on our plight and this has generated some significant publicity. I am hold up in Santa Cruz with the monastery dog, Ginger. She and I are well and blogging at http://sittingwithginger.blogspot.com/ I am only back on the grid until we can ret...

As Fire Approaches Big Sur Monastery Monks Prepare to Fight

Sat, 05 Jul 2008 09:20:23 -0400

TASSAJARA, CALIF. -- In this remote Zen enclave on Big Sur's forested backside, wildfires lurk on three sides. As flames edge closer and ash falls from a crimson sky, the Buddhist monks are readying for a final stand.

Priests and students alike at the Tassajara Zen Mountain Center have been doffing their traditional black robes, hefting picks and shovels, and forging 10-foot-wide firebreaks. Atop the roofs of the monastery's old retreat cabins and meditation hall, they've jury-rigged plastic pipe sprinkler systems.

Perhaps more serene than some, they were amon...

Inconvenient Bag at EarthNow Expo

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 14:11:00 -0400

Enter Message / description of files attached:

EarthNow Expo Highlights

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 14:06:23 -0400

Enter Message / description of files attached:

Cage Free Eggs: Behind the Myth

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 07:03:34 -0400

From HumaneMyth.org, which was created by award-winning filmmakers James LaVeck and Jenny Stein and launched this week.

Easy Ways You Can Help Conserve Rainforests

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 17:54:33 -0400

1Choose foods grown on farms certified by the Rainforest Alliance

Buy coffee, tea, cocoa, chocolate, bananas, orange juice, g...

Focus the Nation hiring Organizers for FTN 2009

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:33:13 -0500

National Organizer, Focus the Nation 2009

Description:

In January 2008, Focus the Nation events reached close to one million people in a day of education and civic engagement on global warming solutions taking place at 1,900 locations in all 50 states. 64 members of Congress and 15 Governors’ offices participated in the events along with hundre...

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 19:01:54 -0500

According to her… she heard the noise but couldnt figure out what it was, to her it sounded like the problem was in the basement. Also she was spending too much time at work to worry about it. It was the toilet at the front of the house on the ground level. It is more outside the house than inside and she almost never used it.

According to the water company she used almost enough water to fill a commercial swimming pool.

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:02:33 -0500

Yay, there I am. This comment and the previous 3 are all mine. I’m done now. All fixed.

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:01:50 -0500

hmm… am I me yet?

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:59:01 -0500

hmm strange. I guess I accidentally created two profiles at some point. Christopher Howse is me. The creator of this post.

About the $2000 dollar water bill… Does that mean he was not home to hear his toilet running for 3 months? I don’t get it. When a toilet is running it is not silent.

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:53:09 -0500

Treehugger.com hates this post I guess, but I still think it is a great hack for most toilets. Thanks for all the positive responses people. I guess Iâ€™ll add that if you have a new model toilet that only uses 1 and a half gallons to flush, you should leave the rod alone. It is already low flow, and you may end up having problems getting it all down. Therefore, you may flush twice. That kind of makes the whole hack pointless. My toilet is olive green, aka, old as hell.

Linkin Park - What I've Done

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 15:00:21 -0500

Cheers to Melanie (http://rethos.com/bleuphox) for this find!

Participatory Democracy? Step One: Stop Voting!

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 23:01:05 -0500

PLEASE BOYCOTT THE NOVEMBER ELECTION! DO NOT VOTE! YOUR VOTE IS A VOTE FOR WAR AND POVERTY AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION NO MATTER WHO OR WHAT YOU VOTE FOR!

Part 1: The Death of the Nation State

“[T]he nation state [is] so unnatural and artificial that it had to be imposed by extreme violence. In fact that’s the primary reason why Europe was the most savage part of the world for centuries. It was due to trying to impose a nation state system on cultu...

U2 and Green Day "The Saints Are Coming" video

Sun, 27 Jan 2008 15:41:44 -0500

Saw this video for the first time today. I wonder if we will see more cause related music videos in future?

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 06:41:27 -0500

If you must play with itâ€¦ take a screwdriver and adjust the level screw never bend the rod. Due to the pressure of the water on the rod it will slowly rotate and eventually go to a point higher than the original. This can make the toilet run constantly. My brothers ex was hit with a $2000 water bill (over a 3 month period) due to a toilet that kept on running. Other than that it is a great way to save water!

American Imperialism: Second Thoughts on Charlie Wilsonâ€™s War
by Chalmers Johnson

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 19:10:03 -0500

As the presidential election approaches it may be tempting to associate US Imperialist behavior with Republicans alone. Try to resist. This article is a clear and intelligent primer on the historical antecedents to our current global nightmare. And the administration occupying the point position here is not GW’s but rather that of the Noble Peace prize winning Jimmy Carter, America’s favorite ex-prez.

The events of 9/11 were forged during the Carter administration when then defense secretary, Zbignew Brezinsky, the true architect of 9/11 advised the president to auth...

Nonviolence and Food

Sun, 20 Jan 2008 17:09:49 -0500

AN UNPOPULAR VIEW OF NONVIOLENCE

If I were to ask you to define nonviolence, what would you say? The traditional macro-type answer would have something to do with peaceful resistance to a government. And either you believe in passive resistance or you think that sometimes force of some kind is necessary; sometimes violence is necessary.

Now what about nonviolence on a micro level—on an individual level. What does nonviolence mean in your daily life? More specifically, do you ever think of your eating habits as ha...

Carpooling Application

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 17:47:52 -0500

With carpooling in a steady decline despite the highest gas prices ever and record traffic congestion, two new online firms want to revive ride-sharing by piggybacking on social networking sites.

The startup services, through the popular Facebook.com, attack obstacles that have held back ride-sharing programs: the fear of sharing a car with a stranger and reaching the “critical mass” of numbers required to effectively match up people for rides. Related Stories

The site’s core users, college students and recent grads, could turn out to be the perfect ...

The $10 per Gallon World

Fri, 18 Jan 2008 16:40:29 -0500

c/o Adei Ressi Blog (see link below)

We are already living in a $10 per gallon of gasoline world. Did that get your attention? Here are some things to think about:

The average yield of gasoline per barrel of oil differs widely based on the quality of the oil (logical), ranging from 5% to 30% of the 42 gallons in a barrel when using straightforward conversion methods. The price per barrel of oil that you read about is normally the â€œgood stuffâ€ (Texas or Arabian grade), yielding over 12 gallons of gasoline per barrel and as much as two thirds in prime conditions.

NYC PASSES PLASTIC BAG RECYCLING BILL

Thu, 17 Jan 2008 11:11:38 -0500

NYC PASSES PLASTIC BAG RECYCLING BILL

Last week, New York City took a giant step forward in the fight against plastic. New York’s City Council passed a bill requiring large stores and retail chains to collect and recycle plastic shopping bags. According to a New York Times report: “New York is by far the largest American city to enact so broad a measure to limit the environmental impact of the bags. Altogether, each year the country is estimated to use 86 billion bags, which end up blowing down city streets, or tangled in the stomachs of wh...

Hummer Ad

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 14:41:04 -0500

While Hummer is often held up as the poster child for corporate irresponsibility this ad offers an interesting perspective that defends Hummer’s service as a disaster rescue vehicle.

Any thoughts on this new perspective?

Nau's Thought Kitchen: Cutting Through the Crap

Mon, 14 Jan 2008 14:35:37 -0500

From Nau’s Thought Kitchen (see link below) -

I recently spoke with Zoe Cameron, who hails from Toronto but is currently living in London. She works as an award-wining freelance journalist specializing in science, environmental, and health-related stories. When I went to check out her blog Zoetic I found the following post pertaining to the United Nations Development Programme report: â€œFighting Climate Change: Human Solidarity in a Divided World.â€ Zoe contends that â€œthereâ€™s no better way to cut through the crap and get right to the point than with some simple stat...

Urban Bike Sharing Coming To The U.S.

Sun, 13 Jan 2008 13:51:02 -0500

Remember the war monger corporation ‘Clear Channel’? They’re the ones who sponsored the infamous outdoor rallies supporting the invasion of Iraq, denouncing Arab-Americans, and the crucifiction of the Dixie Chicks; not to mention their business model which includes the saturation of the American landscape by mega corporate billboards…Well folks. I am here to report that they are up to something new.

Something good!

Something good? No, I can’t believe it either. But apparently its true.

Let me explain. You see a couple of years ...

Forget the Electric Car: This one runs on compressed air!

Sat, 12 Jan 2008 21:00:58 -0500

When I first saw this article I thought it was a joke until I watched the BBC video linked to it. This car costs about three grand, goes 200 km on a single tank of compressed air. No pollution and just a couple of dollars to fill the tank. How quickly will big oil see to it that the inventors are murdered, production halted, and any and all reference to it expunged from the national media?

Cable Giants want our Internet and they are Willing to Cheat to Get it!

Tue, 08 Jan 2008 22:08:15 -0500

One of things I really hate in this world is evil, malicious, and predatory people and institutions who work tirelessly to strip away our basic rights and privileges pretending to be forward thinking progressive and pro-human. Nowhere are these malevolent forces found more plentiful then in the area of corporate media and its attendant efforts to shut down our ability to communicate in a free and critical exchange of ideas and information.

Aided by their obedient lapdog, the FCC, these super-mega media giants have ended all reasonable and necessary pr...

A Thousand Words

Mon, 07 Jan 2008 09:09:32 -0500

This site contains info-graphics in the form of flags of various countries. Very interesting manner of conveying some very stark realities.

Lakota Declare Independance from USA

Sun, 06 Jan 2008 21:24:06 -0500

Lakota Declare independence from United States

I first saw this on myspace but wanted to double-check it before posting it here – and I found confirmation here: http://www.republicoflakotah.com/about.html

The Lakota Nation has officially withdrawn from treaties that allowed the United States to annex their land and have declared themselves an independent nation. They are currently seeking international recognition and waiting for an official acknowledgment from the United States federal government.

And, the very best part, theyâ€™re completely...

Top 25 Censored News Stories of 2007

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 18:37:59 -0500

1 Future of Internet Debate Ignored by Media

2 Halliburton Charged with Selling Nuclear Technologies to Iran

3 Oceans of the World in Extreme Danger

4 Hunger and Homelessness Increasing in the US

5 High-Tech Genocide in Congo

6 Federal Whistleblower Protection in Jeopardy

7 US Operatives Torture Detainees to Death in Afghanistan and Iraq

8 Pentagon Exempt from Freedom of Information Act

9 The World Bank Funds Israel-Palestine Wall

10 Expanded Air War in Iraq K...

Cementing Israeli Apartheid: The Role of World Bank

Fri, 04 Jan 2008 05:31:17 -0500

Despite the 2004 International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision that called for tearing down the Wall and compensating affected communities, construction of the Wall has accelerated. The route of the barrier runs deep into Palestinian territory, aiding the annexation of Israeli settlements and the breaking of Palestinian territorial continuity. The World Bankâ€™s vision of â€œeconomic development,â€ however, evades any discussion of the Wallâ€™s illegality. The World Bank has meanwhile outlined the framework for a Palestinian Middle East Free Trade Area (MEFTA) policy in their most recen...

Big Oil lets sun set on renewables

Thu, 03 Jan 2008 00:39:58 -0500

Shell, the oil company that recently trumpeted its commitment to a low carbon future by signing a pre-Bali conference communique, has quietly sold off most of its solar business.

The move, taken with rival BP’s decision last week to invest in the world’s dirtiest oil production in Canada’s tar sands, indicates that Big Oil might be giving up its flirtation with renewables and going back to its roots.

Shell and BP are among the biggest producers of greenhouse gases in the world, but both have been keen to paint themselves green through a series of cle...

Thinking Critically About Animal Rights: What you need to know, What you need to question (Part 4)

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 18:06:46 -0500

Thinking Critically About Animal Rights:

What you need to know, what you need to question Part 4

As you know if you’ve read Parts 1-3, I’ve left what is perhaps the most controversial item for last: What to do with your charitable dollars. It’s controversial because most groups that are known for being “animal rights groups” are indeed not. Rather, they are animal welfare groups, meaning they campaign for better treatment of the animals we use for food, clothing, etc… However, unless you’re v...

CSRwire Reports Top Corporate Social Responsibility News of 2007

Wed, 02 Jan 2008 13:08:04 -0500

CSRwire Reports Top Corporate Social Responsibility News of 2007

Al Gore’s Nobel Peace Prize helps validate business case for addressing climate crisis, Sudan divestment progresses, Starbucks agrees to Ethiopian coffee trademarks, and much more…

In 2007, corporate social responsibility (CSR) continued the momentum of the past several years, shifting this year from mainstream recognition to widespread action. The scale and scope of business-led solutions is rising to meet the severity of the monumental environmental and social challenges facing us, from the...

If you were born between 1987 and 1990 this coming election will be your first chance to pick a president! Whoops, my bad. I forgot that American Elections are now completely fraudulent!

Mon, 31 Dec 2007 23:30:14 -0500

20 Amazing Facts About Voting in the USA

by Angry Girl of

Nightweed.com

CLICK HERE for printable version Did you know…. 1. 80% of all votes in America are counted by only two companies: Diebold and ES&S.

http://www.onlinejournal.com/evoting/042804Landes/042804landes.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diebold

2. There is no federal agency with regulatory authority or oversight of the U.S. voting machine industry.

http://www.commondreams.org/views02/0916-04....

Displaced Fleeing War in Somalia Face Humanitarian Crisis

Sun, 30 Dec 2007 13:18:50 -0500

Tens of thousands of Somalis are living in camps like this one north of the capital, Mogadishu, suffering from a lack of water, food, and access to medical treatment.

The violence in Somalia escalated this year to some of the worst levels in over 15 years, causing an unknown number of civilian casualties and the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people from the capital. Many of those remaining in Mogadishu are staying in makeshift camps with little more than ripped cloth and plastic sheeting for shelter and are exposed to a high degree of violence

Top 10 Most Underreported Humanitarian Stories of 2007

Sun, 30 Dec 2007 13:16:49 -0500

Displaced Fleeing War in Somalia Face Humanitarian Crisis enlarge image

Somalia 2007 Â© Jehad Nga

Tens of thousands of Somalis are living in camps like this one, north of the capital Mogadishu, suffering from a lack of water, food, shelter, and access to medical treatment.

As violence in Somalia escalated this year to some of the worst levels in over 15 years, both assistance for and attention to one of the most challenging and acute humanitarian situations in the world seemed to wane. Ethiopian troops and Transitional Federal Government forces, supported by...

Trichinosis

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 03:53:47 -0500

Enter Message / description of files attached:

Dear Red States

Fri, 28 Dec 2007 03:12:36 -0500

Dear Red States We’re ticked off at the way you’ve treated California, and we’ve decided we’re leaving. We intend to form our own country, and we’re taking the other Blue States with us. In case you aren’t aware, that includes Hawaii, Oregon, Washington, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois and the entire Northeast. We believe this split will be beneficial to the nation, and especially to the people of the new country of New California. To sum up briefly: You get Texas, Oklahoma and all the slave states. We get stem cell research and the best beach...

Tools for White Guys who are Working for Social Change

Thu, 27 Dec 2007 16:56:55 -0500

Tools for White Guys who are Working for Social Change (and other people socialized in a society based on domination)

1. Practice noticing who’s in the room at meetings – how many men, how many women, how many white people, how many people of color, is it majority heterosexual, are there out queers, what are people’s class backgrounds. Don’t assume to know people, but also work at being more aware.

2a. Count how many times you speak and keep track of how long you speak.

2b. Count how many times other people speak and keep track of how...

Five Simple Ways to Prepare for the Imminent Demise of the Fossil Fuel Era

Thu, 27 Dec 2007 16:25:06 -0500

Five Simple Ways to Prepare for the Imminent Demise of the Fossil Fuel Era By John O. Andersen December 28, 2007

It’s a fact. The era of cheap plentiful oil, and natural gas is over.

In the coming decade, there will be a major shift to alternative energy sources. To put it mildly, this necessary change will result in tremendous turmoil worldwide. It’s gonna get ugly.

Smart people will begin preparing now.

Here are five simple ways to do just that; to transition from a wasteful mainstream North American lifestyle to a deliberate, inform...

Happy Winter Solstice to all!

Sat, 22 Dec 2007 16:20:58 -0500

I found the attached document on the internet and I do not know the author (although I wish it had been me!)

Happy Festivas everyone!

The Weapon of the Future is here!

Thu, 20 Dec 2007 08:35:52 -0500

This is just a quick post to let ya’ll know that my band’s first album – The Weapon of the Future – is finished and available for download from our website.

It’s 14 tracks, all-original, politically conscious, and totally unlike any other hip hop album you’ve ever heard.

get it here - for free! - on Jamendo.com

enjoy,

lynx

Google's Goal: Renewable Energy Cheaper than Coal

Sun, 16 Dec 2007 22:34:54 -0500

Google’s Goal: Renewable Energy Cheaper than Coal

Creates renewable energy R&D group and supports breakthrough technologies

Mountain View, Calif. (November 27, 2007) â€“ Google (NASDAQ: GOOG) today announced a new strategic initiative to develop electricity from renewable energy sources that will be cheaper than electricity produced from coal. The newly created initiative, known as RE

Against Hypocrisy

Sun, 16 Dec 2007 15:26:23 -0500

Against Hypocrisy

My friends work at corporations. My family invests in corporations. I eat at corporations. The corporation is an organization of human activity â€“ both inside the corporate entity and to those it serves.

What am I to think on the corporate model if I was raised on â€˜corporate milkâ€™ (literally and figuratively)? What am I to think about the same corporation that I grab my fries at or that I gas up my car (donâ€™t actually own one), or that I wear to the gym? I believe that the corporate model is a fundamentally efficient model of organizing human...

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Thu, 13 Dec 2007 08:42:29 -0500

Willow:

Why would your friends find it strange that you use the bathroom? hehe

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 16:49:54 -0500

Wow…I was a vegetarian for a while, but I stopped because I found it hard to get enough protein. I think I’ll stock up the cupboard with some extra peanut-butter and start vegging again. Thanks for the post, I had no idea little decision that I make could have so much impact on the earth!

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Wed, 12 Dec 2007 16:47:40 -0500

That’s an awesome idea! Thanks for sharing! My friends will all be wondering why I suddenly start making trips to their toilets…

Be a Solution Pioneer - the Sustainability Symbol Anniversary February 1, 2008

Tue, 11 Dec 2007 17:49:16 -0500

Almost one year ago we introduced the 3 Finger Sustainability Symbol (Peace Plus One) to the HK Environmental Protection Association. http://www.dragonpreneur.com/images/3fingerPhotos/EPA_0228.jpg http://www.dragonpreneur.com/images/3fingerPhotos/EPAgrp_0256.jpg

Since that time, the Peace Plus One Sustainability Symbol, representing a balanced THINKING considering SOCIETY, ENVIRONMENT and ECONOMY has been shared by hundreds (maybe thousands) of people around the world.

DragonTHINK – h...

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Mon, 10 Dec 2007 21:08:52 -0500

Not a toilet safe in Oslo this christmas!

The Take, a must see movie produced by Avi Lewis and Naomi Klein

Sun, 09 Dec 2007 21:32:39 -0500

From thetake.org:

In suburban Buenos Aires, thirty unemployed auto-parts workers walk into their idle factory, roll out sleeping mats and refuse to leave.

All they want is to re-start the silent machines. But this simple act – The Take – has the power to turn the globalization debate on its head.

In the wake of Argentina’s dramatic economic collapse in 2001, Latin America’s most prosperous middle class finds itself in a ghost town of abandoned factories and mass unemployment. The Forja auto plant lies dormant until its former employee...

Time to brew up a sustainable cuppa

Fri, 07 Dec 2007 16:26:08 -0500

Unilever, which buys 12 per cent of the world’s tea, is pioneering sustainable production in the face of falling prices.

By Karen Attwood

The world’s largest tea company, Unilever, which makes PG Tips and Lipton, is currently on a mission â€“ to transform the tea industry by making it sustainable, changing the lives of the workers for the better along the way.

The average Briton consumes 1,000 cups of tea a year, but how many of us give a thought to where it comes from? The global tea industry is beset with problems. While most commodities are so...

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Tue, 04 Dec 2007 00:52:13 -0500

Christopher!!! You are my hero!!!! Vandalism that benefits us all!!! Hooray! I will do this to every toilet I use if the tank cover can be removed!!!!! Yipee!! Look out Gas stations in California here I come! Beware restaurants I’m on my way…..OOOOHHHH yes I’ll get you at the beauty salon too!!!!!! lol lol lol lol lol

December 8th Demonstration: BEYOND KYOTO

Sat, 01 Dec 2007 15:50:01 -0500

I have provided some information about an upcoming event that is very important to me. It is a demonstration that will coincide with the UN Climate Talks. There will be thousands (if not more) worldwide who will be demonstrating so that our leaders take climate change seriously. If enough of us come and support this cause we may be able to make a difference. Please, lend me your support by coming to this event. Please, forward this to as many people as possible. Full details are bellow.

Thank you,

Dan Rose

Rallies are currently planned in 80 countries, for d...

Will Ferrellâ€™s Green Team Will Save The World, Kick Your Ass

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 06:39:03 -0500

Leave it to Will Ferrell to take going green to a whole new level through his â€œFunny Or Dieâ€ video website. Enter The Green Team. A trio of aspiring eco-activists played by Will Ferrell, John C. Reilly, and Adam Mckay.

Google expands into alternative energy

Fri, 30 Nov 2007 06:29:44 -0500

‘We are going to be in the (electricity) business in a very big way’

SAN FRANCISCO – Google Inc. is expanding into alternative energy in its most ambitious effort yet to ease the environmental strain caused by the company’s voracious appetite for power to run its massive computing centers.

As part of a project announced Tuesday, the Internet search leader and its philanthropic arm will pour hundreds of millions of dollars into a quest to lower the cost of producing electricity from renewable energy sources such as wind...

Alliance Accepted! - elysabeth

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:03:28 -0500

Thinking Critically About Animal Rights: What you need to know, What you need to question (Part 3)

Mon, 26 Nov 2007 18:26:33 -0500

NOW WHAT? Most people who begin considering why and how we use animals say the same things: *I never thought of it that way! *It seems so all-encompassing and overwhelming! *Weâ€™ll never live in a society where animals arenâ€™t treated heinously! *Abolition will never become a reality! *What can one person possibly do?

Those are all understandable reactions. Fortunately, thereâ€™s plenty that you can do . . .

WHAT YOU CAN DO It may indeed be true that we will never stop using nonhuman animals. How...

Help build a Wiki to shutter the Big Box Retailers

Sun, 25 Nov 2007 20:03:13 -0500

Hey Everyone: Yours truly is trying to shut down the conglomerate stores that control so many of our towns and villages. This is a Jeffersonian project. It is a Wiki that I am trying to start to get folks who want to join in a boycott of the Borg stores like Home Despot, Burger Kill, ScaredButts, Wal-Mart. Please visit us at Here Buy and help your local merchants take back that market from the scourge of the multi-nationals.

CSR@Intel

Thu, 22 Nov 2007 13:06:01 -0500

I just found out this blog.

I like it! Intel’s employees can share thoughts about their footprint as part of such a big company. You can also download their latest CSR report.

Intel inside, isn’t it? We can find Intel technology everywhere. Let’s find out if they are really thinking ahead.

http://blogs.intel.com/csr/

McDonald's - open for discussion

Wed, 21 Nov 2007 15:48:13 -0500

At the end of a video posted on rethos.com on McDonald’s CSR there is a URL that flashes on the screen directing viewers to McDonald’s CSR blog

Here it is: http://csr.blogs.mcdonalds.com/default.asp

It is amazing that of the billions served by Micky D’s – including myself a couple of times a month – there are so few people engaging in the discussion on how McDonald’s can be a vehicle to feed billions in the best way possible for the planet and all species ...

A critical essay in reply to Ian Wooden's article re: Inequality and Capitalism

Tue, 20 Nov 2007 22:14:57 -0500

RE: http://www.rethos.com/news/view/309-Capitalism-and-Inequality-If-Only-Time-Could-Tell-

I have a number of problems with this article.

The authorâ€™s central thesis is apparently that â€œinequalityâ€ is a global problem that cannot be met with a single solution and that no solution(s) have apparently been found and therefore since this heretofore unattainable panacea is currently unavailable, the author proposes to brainstorm for possible solutions and to speculate as to what state we would find ourselves in if â€œwe tackle[d] the topic of creating a more level p...

A question from Bolivia for the CNN - YouTube Debates

Tue, 20 Nov 2007 20:26:09 -0500

From the Democracy Center http://www.democracyctr.org

No issue has been more contentious between the Bolivia and U.S. over the past decade than the issue of coca. The coca leaf has been a part of Andean civilizations for millennia, from medicinal use to rituals. It is also, when altered through an elaborate chemical process, the raw ingredient to manufacture cocaine.

The U.S. â€œWar on Cocaâ€™ in Bolivia has left a stark trail of human rights abuses â€“ from violent forced eradication efforts to the jailings of thousands of innocent people, courtesy of special anti-dr...

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Tue, 20 Nov 2007 16:58:46 -0500

I’m not a vegan, and I do eat some fish, though I understand how this taxes the environment. So here’s me being hypocritical to some degree and just saying that there is no such thing as sustainable meat, from my point of view. Thought I don’t believe everything he says, I reccommend reading Daniel Quinn. We need to figure out some kind of nouveau agricultural idea, because the way we do it now just isn’t working. One more thing I often consider is how many billion people there are in the world. First world countries eat more meat, because people residing the...

Biophilia or Biophobia? Let's fall in love with nature... again

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 21:23:00 -0500

Biophilia or Biophobia?

Letâ€™s fall in love with natureâ€¦ again

That destiny is a mystery to us, for we do not understand when the buffalo are all slaughtered, the wild horses are tamed, the secret corners of the forest heavy with the scent of many men, and the view of the ripe hills blotted by talking wires. Where is the thicket ? Gone. Where is the eagle ? Gone. The end of living and beginning of survival.

- Chief Seattleâ€™s speech of 1854 as interpreted by screenwriter Ted Perry

As Chief Seattle cautioned in his address during the sale of na...

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 19:20:48 -0500

Bottom line is no matter how it is produced meat requires the suffering and killing of a sentient being. Cows, pigs etc have as much emotion and sensation as any house pet. The free-range definition is a deceiving one. many free frange animals are slaughtered in the same facilities used by factory farms, and often the conditions on free range farms, while “cageless” are just as inhumane. Check peta.org for the scoop

Alliance Accepted! - Ellen McGrath

Thu, 31 Jan 2008 16:03:14 -0500

Economists Thinkers of the Caribbean

Mon, 19 Nov 2007 14:28:52 -0500

I want to share something with the community.

I have the privilege to meet and work with two incredible people. Kari Polanyi Levitt and Norman Girvan. Both are contributors of a refreshing way to think about economy.

Go to their websites and find out more…

http://www.normangirvan.info/

http://www.karipolanyilevitt.com/

Destination of 'recycled' electronics may surprise you

Sun, 18 Nov 2007 12:12:23 -0500

This article is sad. It will probably make you think about what happened with your computer before the one you’re using right now.

Article Highlights:

Most of the 2 million tons of annual discarded U.S. electronics ends up in landfills, says EPA. 50 to 80 percent of the 300,000 to 400,000 tons of U.S. electronics annually gathered for recycling ends up overseas, activists estimate. Hong Kong returned 85 shipping containers of electronic junk, including 20 from the United States. Eight states have passed laws requiring manufacturers to t...

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Sat, 17 Nov 2007 19:45:29 -0500

Guts,

Nationalism is definitely a contender in terms of bringers of death, and I’m sure religion is very often used as a tool. But the simple fact is that the violence and cruelty of the Abrahamic religions make them particularly useful for those ends. No government has ever used, say Buddhism, as a reason to start a war or to commit genocide. They can’t, because it truly is a religion of peace.

You could certainly make the “tool of nationalism” argument in the case of the crusades or Manifest Destiny, but what about things like witch burnin...

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Sat, 17 Nov 2007 13:53:14 -0500

Shhh! I just hacked 4 of my neighbors toilets…don’t tell! What a great idea…I have never thought about that. I will now vandalize every toilet I come across!

Taxi to the darkside

Thu, 15 Nov 2007 23:45:20 -0500

Here is a trailer for the award winning documentary, Taxi To the Darkside. If you are interested in the truth behind American ‘freedom’ and ‘democracy’ this film is a must see. The documentary is craftily directed by Alex Gibney.

Enjoy and be enlightened!

Dan

The Shock Doctrine short film

Thu, 15 Nov 2007 23:37:44 -0500

The Shock Doctrine is a short film by Alfonso CuarÃ³n and Naomi Klein.

On Revolution: How and Why?

Thu, 15 Nov 2007 10:37:22 -0500

Iâ€™ve been thinking on this topic for a long time, close to ten years in fact, and done a lot of reading, a lot of thinking, and a lot of writing on and about it, but until now Iâ€™ve never actually laid out my ideas for the real nuts-and-bolts â€œhowâ€ of moving to a post-capitalist economy. This isnâ€™t that complete article, but itâ€™s a start; spurred by a couple posts I saw on here on Rethos ((http://rethos.com/news/view/683-Alternatives-to-capitalism and http://rethos.com/news/view/309-Capitalism-and-Inequality-If-Only-Time-Could-Tell-) ) about the nature of capitalism and inequa...

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Wed, 14 Nov 2007 18:11:02 -0500

and this is the best part, ascended to power with tax payers $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Wed, 14 Nov 2007 18:09:13 -0500

government is responsible for the deaths of 200, 000, 000+ people in the twentieth century. 200, 000, 000+ for the nineteenth century (native americans etc.). they use religion as a tool for blinding and manipulating the masses.

so for you people who are naive enough to believe that real servants of god are responsible for all this evil, why dont you do some research on your governments and governments throughout history. they have you wrapped around their finger while you blast believers, so continue serving the depraved evil that rules the economic, military, nutrtitional, ed...

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Wed, 14 Nov 2007 16:10:24 -0500

Yea yea, nice nit-picking Christopher.

You could make twice the contribution by investing in a bicycle. It also will do a number on your health too, believe it or not.

Meat is good for you, and the fact that people are suggesting we exchange diets for the sake of the environment is ridiculous. Stop driving, it’s unnecessary.

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Mon, 12 Nov 2007 18:20:47 -0500

For those of you claiming that criticism of Christianity constitutes hate speech, you’re full of shit. We’re simply quoting your hateful scripture. How is that libel or hate speech in any way?

Religion, especially the Abrahamic religions have caused far more harm than good. The crusades? Manifest Destiny? The holocaust?

Of course, people will say that was all long ago. Well, how about the Vatican spreading lies about birth control in Africa, so that condoms aren’t used, thus accelerating the spread of AIDS?

I...

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Mon, 12 Nov 2007 10:54:19 -0500

I hear these facts about livestock production. I did not realize the amounts of wastage that occurs in this industry.

As for going veggie, I have my reservations. for starters, I CANNOT live without meat for a single day! I mean I could have it with vegetables, but I need my meat. I do not yet understand the moral aspect of consuming meat. The plants and crops that we feed on are also living beings.

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Sat, 10 Nov 2007 09:35:27 -0500

truely a tatamount problem.

however there is a perfectly viable alternative out there. coming soon. hopefully.

with your support.

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Sat, 10 Nov 2007 09:29:43 -0500

genius

ruby

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 11:53:18 -0500

Enter Message / description of files attached:

'Critical Mass' Acts to Promote Urban Bicycle Transporation

Fri, 09 Nov 2007 04:03:41 -0500

Itâ€™s almost seven p.m. Friday night. It is getting dark as I exit the Red Line at Vermont and Wilshire. I have serious doubts about whether I will make it before the others depart. I grab my newly repaired, basement-junk ten-speed bicycle from the rack on the bus and peddle frantically down Wilshire Boulevard chasing the setting sun to the appointed place for my first ride with â€œCritical Massâ€, an organization created for the sole purpose of meeting at a predetermined place and time and traveling by self propulsion through city streets en mass.

All around me I can see,...

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Tue, 06 Nov 2007 09:22:58 -0500

@ Jerry…

And while we’re convincing the farmers, let’s not be hypocritical and make sure we don’t waste so much water ourselves.

Alliance Accepted! - Steer Clean

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 18:36:39 -0500

Alliance Accepted! - Christine

Thu, 08 Nov 2007 18:36:32 -0500

Alliance Accepted! - Sarah Minczeski

Fri, 02 Nov 2007 14:27:48 -0400

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 18:18:10 -0400

Dugg on Digg.com. Go here to Digg it yourself and move it up in the rankings.

http://digg.com/environment/Save_Water_Hack_Your_Friends_Toilets

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Sun, 28 Oct 2007 09:31:14 -0400

I don’t believe it is a good idea to go screwing around with other peoples toilets. Besides, household use accounts for only 15% of water use (agriculture 70%, industrial 15%) so if we get farmers to stop growing rice in the desert (because of access to cheap plentiful water) then we could save more water than messing around with a million friends toilets.

Alliance Accepted! - Frank Miller

Sun, 28 Oct 2007 10:40:11 -0400

Write for Celsias - Climate Change Site

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 22:35:25 -0400

Celsias is rapidly becoming the â€œgo toâ€ online destination for emerging and seasoned writers to showcase their passion for the environment, sustainability and global warming.

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Contact us at www.celsias.com/contact-us and you could be published by supper time!

New comment! - Call Out Litter Bugs

Sat, 20 Oct 2007 00:43:35 -0400

I love this post. I hate it when people litter. It’s stupid considering there’s probably a trash can of some sort just a short walk away.

I especially hate it when people throw litter out of their cars. My car may look like a tornado hit it, but at least it will make it to the trash eventually rather than on the side of the highway! The trash of course, not my car!

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Tue, 16 Oct 2007 18:48:26 -0400

Am I the only one who doesn’t want my friends fucking with my toilet?

Alliance Accepted! - The Nature Conservancy

Fri, 19 Oct 2007 07:57:45 -0400

credit union

Sun, 14 Oct 2007 18:21:23 -0400

HELP!

really knack’d at the mo, so will post when rested. thought best to start now, or it will never happen ha ha ha

peace and love Exxx

here is the official posting of what roles need filling: Bath and North East Somerset Credit Union (formally South West Bath Credit Union) was established in 1997 operating in the South West Triangle of Bath. In October 2006, it was authorised to offer its service to anyone living or working in the Bath and North East Somerset Local Authority area. It is registered and regulated by the Fi...

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Sun, 14 Oct 2007 18:20:44 -0400

This is a wonderful a book on the topic of whether God exists. It is well written. presents both sides of the argument clearly, and is enjoyable.

esqmsm

Alliance Accepted! - Hannah

Sat, 13 Oct 2007 00:54:19 -0400

Alliance Accepted! - Alec Henderson

Sat, 13 Oct 2007 00:53:53 -0400

Alliance Accepted! - Nicole

Sat, 13 Oct 2007 00:53:49 -0400

Please come to Los angeles for Darfur Rally

Wed, 10 Oct 2007 21:07:10 -0400

Monday October 15 in Downtown LA 12 noon!!!

Help to stop American Investment in Darfur! Join me in downtown Los Angeles for a rally!

Click here to sign up

Write/Draw for rethos!

Tue, 09 Oct 2007 18:39:28 -0400

Friends, We are in the process of starting a new project at rethos dedicated to citizen journalism and creative expression. We want rethos to become a organic media channel with a focus on promoting positive social change throughout the world. If you are interested in learning more about this new venture, please send an email to eli@rethos.com. We need people who are ready to start doing freelance work right away, so please take advantage of this unique opportunity!

Eli http://www.rethos.com/eli

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Fri, 05 Oct 2007 22:59:51 -0400

Thanks everyone for all of your great comments. I was not expecting a debate to kick off here.

The soybean issue is also bothering me. I do not feel like we should need to choose between animals and trees. Someone obviously needs a kick in the balls. No one should be messing with our rain forests. They are already more than half eliminated… I’m sure there is a more sustainable way to go about growing the damn beans.

New comment - Are Mike Gravel and Dennis Kucinich CraZy?

Fri, 05 Oct 2007 22:32:32 -0400

Spot on comments … but, I suggest to you that moderation, which I see as the outcome of honest discussion and debate from the extremes IS radical. It is a pipe dream, I fear, but it is my dream.

This is in response to what you said about it taking something radical (and I am curious what you had in mind there), but what I am suggesting is that moderation, which leads to a nation of one people who all agree on one thing … that we are a people … is radical for our times. This means that we would become a single unit of people, a country. This, together with a ge...

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Fri, 05 Oct 2007 19:22:53 -0400

Religion prevents critical thought and proper questioning. It favors complete submission to an all powerful authoritarian figure. The reason many people despise religion is probably because it is a fascist concept, one Jesus deliberately tried to oppose, but the powerful had the last word. Now he is the figure to which we submit, and give all our faith. Instead, Jesus argued, we must give all our faith to ourselves, for the kingdom of heaven is within you and around you. “If you bring forth what is within you, what you have will save you. If you do not bring it forth, what you do ...

Alliance Accepted! - Progresswear

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 12:27:32 -0400

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Sun, 30 Sep 2007 12:01:05 -0400

” Diet for a New America” by John Robbins … was that mentioned ? Also, as a veggie I must say one of the things u never want to face as a carnivore is the suffering u cause another sentient being. It honestly & simply takes a certain level of dishonesty & detachment to be a carnivore. If you were truly honest with yourself you could no longer eat meat. I believe it was Shaw who said it best: Until we stop being the graves for dead animals we as a species shall never live in Peace. (major paraphrasing!)

New comment - Why Animal Rights matter

Sat, 29 Sep 2007 20:02:52 -0400

Christopher—go figure, I disagree with you still. I mean, don’t you think that the people who do reprehensible things (unjust, unsustainable, destructive to the environment) believe they are doing it for the betterment of some higher goal? If I want to go off and dump chemicals in the nearest river, I’m not doing it because I want to kill the fish, I am going it because I want to improve something or other with my product. If I go kill some people in the next village, I am doing it most likely because I think their rights are not a priority whereas “mine” (m...

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 14:36:16 -0400

I think that before one comments on atheism, particularly in relation to Dawkins, one should read the book.

I have read it and recommend it highly, in addition to Christopher Hitchens’ God is Not Great and Sam Harris’ The End of Faith (as well as Letter to a Christian Nation). All of the questions and issues posted in the comments are addressed in these books (less so in Hitchens’ book, which if you had a liberal arts education, this might be the one time it comes in handy. With all of my education, I still had a list of 30 references within the text that I ha...

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 13:12:56 -0400

The following is my opinion, and only my opinion.

Beliefs are widely regarded as a good idea. Religion is widely regarded as a bad idea. Religion causes wars, murder, oppression, racism, sexism, homophobia, overpopulation, and all manner of unsavory things. None of the above has anything to do with the initial post lol

The initial post is about a book. This book uses strong words to efficiently describe the authorâ€™s viewpoint on (Iâ€™m assuming the Christian version of) God. Those are all words designed to affront, without a doubt. Iâ€™m beginning to get the impres...

Alliance Accepted! - JAM

Sat, 29 Sep 2007 23:34:09 -0400

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 17:57:54 -0400

Hey chirrens!

Firstoffly, let me say that I love this post. Sometimes a firm statistical slap in the face is just enough to make someone consider a- how shall I put it- greener diet. Its what made me go Vegan.

Now before some of you carnos out there cringe, I have no bad feelings towards you. Everyone I know is a carno, save for my flat-mate. And I know that â€˜veganâ€™ looks like some sort of contraction between â€˜vegetarianâ€™ and â€˜crazy personâ€™ to some of you, but Its my environmental views that drove me to that point.

The fact is, that if you consum...

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:29:25 -0400

love it! i am so in…Bryan…prepare to be toilet abused.

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 22:00:27 -0400

religion is just a way for people to organize themselves and create social boundaries that used to be necessary to ensure good economic behavior, “do unto ones neighbor as you would have them do”. However in the era of global capitalism we are discovering new and more efficient ways to organize ourselves to ensure positive sum outcomes, like rethos, and social awareness to issues such as global warming

Alliance Accepted! - Boston Vegan Association

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 17:10:20 -0400

New comment - Why Animal Rights matter

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 14:56:37 -0400

Great post. The holistic approach to compassion is not only the most consistent, but the most practical.

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 14:52:48 -0400

Great! A toilet hack!

My wife and I don’t flush after every use. It’s pretty obvious when the toilet actually NEEDS to be flushed, and then this tip comes in handy, especially if you live in an apartment and have an old, wasteful toilet you can’t replace.

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 13:33:49 -0400

Those toilets with the half flush option were all over Australia when I was there, and I have never seen one in Canada.

Alliance Accepted! - Mary Martin

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 13:29:24 -0400

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 05:24:55 -0400

I study Chinese Medicine, nutrition, herbology, and general health sciences. If anybody needs help on learning to eat a healthy vegetarian diet that your body can stick with message me.

Alliance Accepted! - Sentience

Tue, 25 Sep 2007 13:29:18 -0400

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 09:16:51 -0400

I understand that many (myself included) learned about “Animal Rights” from Peter Singer, but he is a utilitarian and not actually opposed to using animals. If you want to learn about abolition (which is what AR used to be before it was co-opted by animal welfare), read Professor Gary Francione’s work. His website, www.abolitionistapproach.com, has very accessible flash presentations that explain the differences between animal rights and animal welfare, what animal rights actually is (contrary to what PETA might say), and why property rights ar...

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 08:05:03 -0400

It’s nice when people seek to ignite a debate, and one actually ensues, rather than everyone just confirming their original beliefs. I think I’m going to like rethos.

I’m with Krista et al at the moment; I think that what is needed from an ecological perspective is a fundamental change to food culture, but not necessarily one that cuts out meat. It’s similar (but not directly linked) to the kind of change which one has affect in one’s diet when changing to full vegetarianism, engaging in a whole new approach to food, recipes and ingredients rather ...

Alliance Accepted! - Theresa

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 13:34:04 -0400

New comment! - The Admission of Cruelty

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 02:02:09 -0400

i’d have to agree that i cannot find any connection between a chain around a cows neck and profit. if it were a dog factory farming practices would make front page news for the amount of cruelty! i don’t expect everyone to be a vegetarian, but i am constantly baffled by the fact that people find it acceptable to torture an animal of any form. cut the chain now!

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 00:53:11 -0400

thank you for posting the info. realizing the effect that our food choices have on the environment is crucial. becoming a vegetarian is one of the easiest things a person can do to decrease the impact they have on the environment as well as decrease the amount of suffering that farm animals are subjected to. i have been a vegetarian for over four years and really cant imagine eating meet again, but lately i have struggled with whether or not my choices really are the least impactful on the environment. in the january 2007 issue of national geographic there is an article attributing the ...

Alliance Accepted! - Kryss

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 13:33:49 -0400

Alliance Accepted! - Jesse Smale

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 13:33:41 -0400

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Sun, 23 Sep 2007 20:47:21 -0400

Why the heck aren’t toilets just designed with this kink in place? You do see some modern toilets with the ‘half-flush’ option, but surely all modern toilets shoulds be designed to work at the most effective standard.

What is the actual policy on flushing: ‘if it’s yellow let it mellow’ – is this best? Is it best to avoid flushing even in other people’s homes? Obviously it’s not so bad for us guys…

Alliance Accepted! - Josh Cohen

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 13:33:37 -0400

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Sun, 23 Sep 2007 12:45:58 -0400

not many people know that water companies often have to pump the fresh water to homes. So using less water actually reduces energy use as well .

New comment! - Why You Shouldn't Wear Wool

Sun, 23 Sep 2007 11:50:19 -0400

It’s just near impossible to tell what you’re buying and supporting. The world is a scary place. Thanks for posting this.

Alliance Accepted! - andy

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 13:33:32 -0400

Alliance Accepted! - Will

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 13:33:29 -0400

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Fri, 21 Sep 2007 17:09:51 -0400

Honestly, I am having such an authentically difficult time responding to this. I was a vegeterian for about five years and then transitional (fish and poultry) for another two years (approx.). I can feel how fired up people get regarding this subject. I did too. Then I studied further and lived out some of my education at several sustainable ag. projects. Even gardening for a site leased by the old administrator of the Findhorn Garden. Get real, All of us. There is no short cut solution to this whole thing. If everyone is not on board, the boat isn’t gonna float. I feel healthier a...

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Fri, 21 Sep 2007 17:08:39 -0400

Honestly, I am having such an authentically difficult time responding to this. I was a vegeterian for about five years and then transitional (fish and poultry) for another two years (approx.). I can feel how fired up people get regarding this subject. I did too. Then I studied further and lived out some of my education at several sustainable ag. projects. Even gardening for a site leased by the old administrator of the Findhorn Garden. Get real, All of us. There is no short cut solution to this whole thing. If everyone is not on board, the boat isn’t gonna float. I feel healthier a...

Let's build the Rethos community

Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:49:57 -0400

If you know any bloggers or read any blogs regularly that touch on your issues of passion…

We’d love to have the whole community benefit from those bloggers’ passion and energy as well.

So this is a call to action to comment on any blogs you read, and include a link to your rethos.com profile. Ask bloggers and blog readers to come join you here to take action and build change!

Conserve the Rainforest

Wed, 19 Sep 2007 15:32:14 -0400

Support an organization that works to conserve biodiversity and ensure sustainable livelihoods by transforming land-use practices, business practices and consumer behavior.

New comment - My Challenge to Al Gore and Global Warming Celebrities

Tue, 18 Sep 2007 20:00:23 -0400

Sort of creepy way to make a good point. But right on, anyhow.

Alliance Accepted! - Lauren Reitnouer

Thu, 20 Sep 2007 00:16:18 -0400

New comment! - Call Out Litter Bugs

Sun, 16 Sep 2007 17:13:43 -0400

I’ve been told I look damn fine in tutu. I think I could make a great litter fairy. I would probably also carry a whip. Everyone would fear my tutu..

Alliance Accepted! - Krista White

Sun, 16 Sep 2007 22:36:55 -0400

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Sun, 16 Sep 2007 17:07:51 -0400

Wacks Krista with a bushel of chard!!

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 21:19:37 -0400

I didn’t mean to alienate anyone. As you can see from my previous comment I am supportive of those who take a step in the right direction. Your proposal would be such a step if it could be implemented in a wide spread fashion. Unfortunately, that is highly unlikely considering the massive demand for cheap meat. Oh, and I didn’t mean that all meat lovers are McDiers. Long before I stopped eating meat, I gave up fast food.

If you are eating meat sustainably and humanely then cudos to you. Perhaps, you will show people how to eat meat responsibly and in moderation̷...

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 16:32:35 -0400

Hmm… well I think essentially we agree. You see, my scenario never – ever – included eating anything, from McDonald’s. Because I would like to point out that not all of us who eat meat are guilty of patronizing McDonalds.

Certainly, I agree that that kind of meat consumption is completely unsustainable. I was thinking more along the lines of eat what you, or your neighbour, can grow.

When I lived in England pretty much all of my friends and neighbours had their own chickens. Even a friend who lived in a terraced house in the middle of the c...

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 11:54:43 -0400

Krista,

No I am not going to try and flame baste you. I would just like to say that your scenario would work if there weren’t 6 billion McDonald’s loving meat eaters out there. That’s a lot of “free range” animals. I guess it would intorduce a whole new level of urban sprawl, that dedicated to the “local” livestock we would eat. Yikes, I can just imagine what north america would look like if we didn’t import our meat from south american nations.

I agree with your assessment if we were a smaller more moderate global popul...

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 11:26:38 -0400

I have been a vegetarian for 2 and half years now and it really isn’t that hard. At first I craved meat but now I don’t even look at the stuff. It’s as if it’s not food! Good luck to anyone who decides to take the step towards becoming a more morally responsible and environmentaly friendly person.

New comment! - Breathing Earth dot net

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 09:57:12 -0400

I fully agree with your two cents. We are on a highway to disaster.

New comment! - Breathing Earth dot net

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 05:39:43 -0400

that’s the funniest part about this site. I stumbled on it back in July and wrote a blog entry about it (http://blog.circlealpha.com/?p=43). Like you the big thing I took away from it is that having a global birthrate that’s more then double the global death rate is totally unsustainable and insane. No animal species can afford to have its population expand that fast, and any animal that experiences the kind of exponential growth that our species has experienced in the last hundred years is heading straight for a mass die-off, something NOBODY wan...

Alliance Accepted! - Technology For People Group Inc.

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 09:53:45 -0400

New comment! - Call Out Litter Bugs

Thu, 13 Sep 2007 21:50:50 -0400

Wouldn’t it be great if every city had a team of “Litter Maids”, like metre maids who could roam the city all day, ready to give tickets to litterers they catch in the act??

Since we don’t have those (yet) one of the best ways to illustrate the enormity of the problem is to join in, or initiate community clean-ups.

Here in Calgary, there’s a riverbank cleanup every spring. The city organizes it, and gets companies or groups to gather their members to volunteer. My boyfriend and I did it this spring with his company, and it was great.

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Thu, 13 Sep 2007 21:17:59 -0400

Ok, before you whack me with the spinach too (and by the way, chard would make a much more useful weapon) I would like to make one suggestion for those considering vegetarianism.

Leaving ethical reasons out of it, it is possible to eat meat fairly sustainably. The environmental detriment comes from commercial livestock production, not the existence of the animals (ruminants and their pesky methane excepted), or the consumption of them.

Switching our meat consumption to free range or wild game, and getting it locally can mitigate just about all of the ecological footp...

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 21:27:07 -0400

Read it recently… phenomenal book… his documentary series “Root of All Evil?” is a need-to-see.

Alliance Accepted! - Rainforest Alliance

Thu, 13 Sep 2007 18:15:47 -0400

Make Friends, Have Fun and Make Money Saving the Earth

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 14:55:33 -0400

Are you Part of the Problem… or the SOLUTION?

Be the first in your community to start the transformation process to sustainability.

+Become a Black Belt Dragonpreneur, Trainer / DragonMentor + (Seminar / Workshop Presenter – CSR Business Consultant – Private Tutor – Sustainable Lifestyle Coach)

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS: - Excellent Communications and Interpersonal Skills - Unlimited Positive Enthusiasm & Entrepreneur THinking - Assertive Development of you...

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Tue, 11 Sep 2007 10:22:24 -0400

Cruelty and Violence in the Old Testamenthttp://skepticsannotatedbible.com/cruelty/ot.html

Cruelty and Violence in the New Testament http://skepticsannotatedbible.com/cruelty/nt.html

Cruelty and Violence in the Book of Mormon http://skepticsannotatedbible.com/BOM/cr/long.html

Cruelty and Violence in the Bible http://skepticsannotatedbible.com/cruelty/long.html

Cruelty in the Quran http://skepticsannotatedbible.com/quran/cruelty/long.html

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 22:15:09 -0400

Also, I disagree with Richard that the horrible things done in the name of religion were done by misguided zealots. The misguided zealots you are referring to were misguided by the Bible. The particular religions that I’m opposed to are Islam and Christianity- because they’re both incredibly barbaric. Islam in particular because Muslims still have the annoying habit of following the specific tenets of their religion rather than picking and choosing the tasty parts like Christians tend to do these days.

For example, Let’s say that I’m a Christian who want...

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 22:04:30 -0400

Interesting article out of the journal Nature.

http://dericbownds.net/uploaded_images/vmpfc.pdf

Basically, the researchers took a sample of people with lesions in the ventromedial pre-frontal cortex and asked them questions that required them to make moral judgements. “If your village is being occupied and you and some villagers are hiding in a basement but your baby starts crying loudly, do you smother the baby in order to avoid detection and the death of everyone in the basement?” People with damage (Very paraphrased) were far more likely to say yes in s...

New comment - Why Animal Rights matter

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 21:50:01 -0400

I disagree with you. The slippery slope argument doesn’t work here. It’s not legitimate to say that to disrespect animal rights is the first step to doing medical testing on babies. As nice as it is to say, “Hey, that dog looks like its smiling at me. Look at those cute little eyes! That obviously makes it a ‘being’ in the same way that humans are!”. That’s stupid- the fact is that animal rights are definitely a back seat priority in the face of the human suffering that is occurring at this very moment. One of the most repulsively immoral things ...

New comment - Are Mike Gravel and Dennis Kucinich CraZy?

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 21:40:21 -0400

I’m sad to say it, but welcome to America man. I agree with you completely, serious changes are needed to get this country in the right direction, but it’s hard to convince people to go in a different direction when they are blind to everything that’s happening. I disagree with you on one point, it’s not that Americans don’t have the time, but that most simply don’t care. What we need is for people look beyond themselves and find the candidate that good do some real good to our country. Don’t get me started on the media, that kind of rant wouldn...

Alliance Accepted! - Kaitlin Huston

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 23:22:06 -0400

Alliance Accepted! - Diane Tabbott

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 09:11:24 -0400

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 02:57:03 -0400

Thanks Mary for questioning my statement – it certainly does sound a little arrogant, and maybe I’ve chosen my words poorly. However, I would argue that there’s a difference between ‘belief’ and ‘faith’.

Theism is a belief in a god, based on faith or trust. Atheism is a belief that there is no god, based on reasonable doubt.

An analogy I considered is that of the British legal system, whereby the accused are innocent until proven guilty. Certainly to maintain their innocence at first is a position that requires a great deal of...

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Sun, 09 Sep 2007 16:13:57 -0400

“I can say without doubt that this isn’t a faith.”

There is a difference between the words “faith” and “religion”. Both theism and atheism are positions on “theos”.

Atheism is a position that theos does not exist The position is a belief or faith in that, as a philosophical proposition, there is no proof of the non-existence of theos.

Theism is a position that theos does exist The position is a belief or faith in that, as a philosophical proposition, there is no proof of the existence of theos.

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Sat, 08 Sep 2007 10:15:00 -0400

Attacks you with a spinach salad

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 18:34:47 -0400

Nour’s response sums up a lot of good points, and the final idea – that we don’t need a god for us to be good – is paramount. I am an atheist, and I can say without doubt that this isn’t a faith. Dawkins explains this; it isn’t necessary to prove something doesn’t exist, in fact that’s practically impossible, rather proof has to be presented in favour of a theory – otherwise absolutely any suggestion must be accepted until disproved.

I do not agree in dismantling people’s beliefs (unless those beliefs lead them to harm...

New comment - Why Animal Rights matter

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 11:28:02 -0400

Word!

Alliance Accepted! - Will

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 22:33:54 -0400

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 00:23:01 -0400

Hello guys! I guess I need to catch up! haha First of all, Iâ€™d like to address Ianâ€™s statement- that â€œreligion has its place in the world as does everything elseâ€â€¦ Ian, this is a very strong statement. Not everything in this world should have its placeâ€¦.if we allow ourselves to think this way, we might as well justify the existence of violence, war etc… This is exactly why we are having this discussion.. not to decided whether religion should exist- it did and it does, but let us try and think where it is taking us from hereâ€¦. how we are using this experience of reli...

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 20:47:54 -0400

Religion has its place in the world, as does everything else. If it didn’t, it would’nt be here. I think that if we respect other people’s passions and beliefs, and take the time to learn about them, we can all be better off.

Alliance Accepted! - Anthony Pogliano

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 22:33:48 -0400

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 20:21:02 -0400

Though I do not believe in God, I would not call myself an Athiest by any means. I do tend to lean towards the idea that religion was an institution created for the control of the weak minded, the lower tiers of society by those who sit at the top of social and economic ladders. More people have been murdered in the name of God than any other cause in history. The church even sent Children on a crusade of their own- a horrendously unsuccessful military campaign that hid the upper echelon of the church from having to possibly face death at the hand of their own beliefs. Even today, th...

Alliance Accepted! - Olivia Siegel

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 22:33:44 -0400

New comment - Slow Food

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 14:01:07 -0400

I’m reading Slow Food Nation right now, written by the president of the Slow Food movement (Carlo Petrini), and it has great info about how industrial ag has changed the way people around the world produce and consume their food.

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 12:56:09 -0400

eh, you’re right folks, my reply was unnecessarily hostile. I’ve got my own reasons to feel so strongly about Christianity, but those reasons don’t justify being mean to strangers. my apologies. I’ll try to be a bit friendlier in future discussions.

still, I can’t help thinking it’s odd that no one thinks it’s hate speech for christians to say that I’m going to burn in hell for eternity because I don’t share their imaginary friend, but when I call them delusional all of a sudden I’m the big nasty angry athiest.

New comment - Are Mike Gravel and Dennis Kucinich CraZy?

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 12:01:51 -0400

passion in your words I am in the process of researching these guys right now…

much peace&love, Christine

New comment - My Challenge to Al Gore and Global Warming Celebrities

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 11:43:47 -0400

AWESOME POST! HAHA LOVED IT..

my thoughts on his recommendation would have to be further developed by learning more about gore and what he preaches and his contrary actions but so far i think it gets you to think and motivated regardless of what you believe which is pretty dope…

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Thu, 06 Sep 2007 02:27:48 -0400

Let us not debate in anger, particular on matters of religion. Progress can only be achieved when we lower our shields and listen. I don’t want to sound patronizing, but too often religious debate becomes heated to the point where substance is diluted.

Let us step back for a moment and channel this discussion in a meaningful direction. Perhaps by debating whether or not atheism is faith.

I am of the opinion that atheism is not a religion but it is the faith that there is no god and that religion is of little to no value.

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 18:50:45 -0400

Alex told me that he believed that “debates” would be such an amazingly viral approach to getting the Rethos.com name out there. My Heart of Hearts felt nah, how about “solutions”. To be wrong- even if only temporarily- what a let down.

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 18:01:40 -0400

Lynx- Man I don’t know why you hate religion so much but if I were you I would start taking the log out of my own eye before helping someone with the splinter in their own. I was under the impression, hopefully not a misguided one that this site was for people to make a positive change in the world rather then yet another site to knock everyone else’s beliefs for the sake of making ourselves feel smart, justified, or whatever else it is people seek when they insult one another. Surely despite our differences of belief we can agree on world issues that we both may be able to e...

Alliance Accepted! - lynx

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 18:31:57 -0400

New comment - Richard Dawkins - The God Delusion

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 14:39:25 -0400

athiesm is not a religion, it’s a lack of religion. and science isn’t a religion either, it’s a method for testing and refining hypothesis. anyone who would seriously argue that science IS a religion obviously either wasn’t paying attention in their high school science classes or had an incompetent teacher or both. religions are based on faith, science take NOTHING on faith, ergo it is not a religion. this is a simple logical syllogism and can even be broken down to an equation as follows:

a requires b, c does not have b, th...

Alliance Accepted! - Michael Oppenheimer

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 16:21:50 -0400

Alliance Accepted! - DanRose

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 10:05:33 -0400

Alliance Accepted! - LifePrints

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 17:33:02 -0400

New comment - My Challenge to Al Gore and Global Warming Celebrities

Wed, 05 Sep 2007 01:16:36 -0400

Dimos,

Good points. But I think Abe needs to be criticized for having slaves just as Gore needs to be criticized for eating meat. All I’m saying is that the spokeman for global climate change, should live as he preaches. That is the most effective way to influence people to change, prove to them that they can do it too. And America doesn’t even have to completely stop eating meat. If we even reduced our consumption by 1/10th, we would make a huge impact on the environment. Plus, we would create new industries and help struggling ones.

Good points though

New comment - My Challenge to Al Gore and Global Warming Celebrities

Tue, 04 Sep 2007 22:32:15 -0400

YOur fricken hilarious eli…hes not gonna change tho…he grew up farming livestock but lets not mock a man that is actually doing for the cause. Just as honest abe had slaves …gore eats meat The meat industry is a huge economic problem and we cant just change it overnight by all becoming vegitarians…Think about what would happen to our country if you woke up tomorrow and all fast food burger restaurants were out of business because the slaughter houses were shut down. its gonna take decades to reduce the consumption and farming of meat in the US and we have to do s...

New comment - My Challenge to Al Gore and Global Warming Celebrities

Tue, 04 Sep 2007 17:15:38 -0400

Hahaha! LOVE IT!!!

Rethos.com - Enviroveg's Global Feed

Santropol Roulant

Hello from Big Sur - Alec Henderson

As Fire Approaches Big Sur Monastery Monks Prepare to Fight

Inconvenient Bag at EarthNow Expo

EarthNow Expo Highlights

Cage Free Eggs: Behind the Myth

Easy Ways You Can Help Conserve Rainforests

Focus the Nation hiring Organizers for FTN 2009

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Linkin Park - What I've Done

Participatory Democracy? Step One: Stop Voting!

U2 and Green Day "The Saints Are Coming" video

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

American Imperialism: Second Thoughts on Charlie Wilsonâ€™s War by Chalmers Johnson

Nonviolence and Food

Carpooling Application

The $10 per Gallon World

NYC PASSES PLASTIC BAG RECYCLING BILL

Hummer Ad

Nau's Thought Kitchen: Cutting Through the Crap

Urban Bike Sharing Coming To The U.S.

Forget the Electric Car: This one runs on compressed air!

Cable Giants want our Internet and they are Willing to Cheat to Get it!

A Thousand Words

Lakota Declare Independance from USA

Top 25 Censored News Stories of 2007

1 Future of Internet Debate Ignored by Media

2 Halliburton Charged with Selling Nuclear Technologies to Iran

3 Oceans of the World in Extreme Danger

4 Hunger and Homelessness Increasing in the US

5 High-Tech Genocide in Congo

6 Federal Whistleblower Protection in Jeopardy

8 Pentagon Exempt from Freedom of Information Act

9 The World Bank Funds Israel-Palestine Wall

10 Expanded Air War in Iraq K...

Cementing Israeli Apartheid: The Role of World Bank

Big Oil lets sun set on renewables

Thinking Critically About Animal Rights: What you need to know, What you need to question (Part 4)

Thinking Critically About Animal Rights:

What you need to know, what you need to question Part 4

CSRwire Reports Top Corporate Social Responsibility News of 2007

If you were born between 1987 and 1990 this coming election will be your first chance to pick a president! Whoops, my bad. I forgot that American Elections are now completely fraudulent!

Displaced Fleeing War in Somalia Face Humanitarian Crisis

Top 10 Most Underreported Humanitarian Stories of 2007

Trichinosis

Dear Red States

Tools for White Guys who are Working for Social Change

Five Simple Ways to Prepare for the Imminent Demise of the Fossil Fuel Era

Happy Winter Solstice to all!

The Weapon of the Future is here!

Google's Goal: Renewable Energy Cheaper than Coal

Against Hypocrisy

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

Be a Solution Pioneer - the Sustainability Symbol Anniversary February 1, 2008

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

The Take, a must see movie produced by Avi Lewis and Naomi Klein

Time to brew up a sustainable cuppa

New comment! - Abuse Your Friend's Toilets

December 8th Demonstration: BEYOND KYOTO

Will Ferrellâ€™s Green Team Will Save The World, Kick Your Ass

Google expands into alternative energy

Alliance Accepted! - elysabeth

Thinking Critically About Animal Rights: What you need to know, What you need to question (Part 3)

Help build a Wiki to shutter the Big Box Retailers

CSR@Intel

McDonald's - open for discussion

A critical essay in reply to Ian Wooden's article re: Inequality and Capitalism

A question from Bolivia for the CNN - YouTube Debates

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Biophilia or Biophobia? Let's fall in love with nature... again

Letâ€™s fall in love with natureâ€¦ again

New comment! - The Meat Industry and the Environment

Alliance Accepted! - Ellen McGrath

American Imperialism: Second Thoughts on Charlie Wilsonâ€™s War
by Chalmers Johnson