The clock is ticking and it is only 5 more days to go!!!!
Remember!
Sprouts 8 dated you!
Venue: Seri Mutiara Hall, 8th Residential College
Details: 31st of October/ 1st of November 2012
Time : 8.30 p.m. to 11.00 p.m.
Thursday 25 October 2012
Wednesday 24 October 2012
Countdown!!!
Excited? We are just 6 more days away from the Opening of "You Can Make A Change"!!!
Don't forget that we, Sprouts 8, has dated you and hope to see you guys!
Till now, bye!
Don't forget that we, Sprouts 8, has dated you and hope to see you guys!
Till now, bye!
7 lifestyle changes which will help the environment.
7 lifestyle changes which will help the environment.
1. Use the car less. This is perhaps the simplest change in this list – reduce the time you spend behind the wheel. In addition to the environmental benefits of doing this, you’ll probably find that you become slightly fitter; and have more money in your pocket at the end of the week. In short, there’s no downside. How do you do this? Here are a few suggestions :
- for short journeys, walk
- if possible, work from home (at least some of the time)
- create a car pool with workmates
- make use of public transport occasionally
- bike to work
2. Reduce your intake of red meat. Common sources of red meat such as cows and bulls produce an enormous quantity of climate-changing gases such as methane. Now, I’m certainly not suggesting that you should become vegetarian – I enjoy a good steak as much as any other omnivore – simply that a slight reduction can have a dramatic effect. As a bonus, there are a number of well-documented health benefits of a diet containing only a small amount of red meat.
3. Become a ‘green consumer‘. When shopping for any sort of product – anything from groceries to a new television – take a moment to weigh up the options. If there are alternatives, consider which product has the lowest impact on the environment. Things to look out for :
3. Become a ‘green consumer‘. When shopping for any sort of product – anything from groceries to a new television – take a moment to weigh up the options. If there are alternatives, consider which product has the lowest impact on the environment. Things to look out for :
- does the item come in easily-recyclable packaging?
- have the goods been recently produced? Locally?
- is the item energy or water efficient?
By favoring the products which answer ‘yes‘ to these questions, producers and manufacturers will gradually take up ‘green‘ practices in order to remain competitive.
4. Become ‘carbon neutral‘ using offsets as necessary. This is something that nearly everyone can take advantage of. Become as close to ‘carbon neutral‘ as possible; purchasing carbon offsets as necessary. In effect, you’ll be investing in a number of sustainable energy and water schemes. NB : if you’re looking for a slightly more direct investment approach, read on.
5. Invest in companies researching and producing renewable energy. Want to make some serious money, and help the environment at the same time? Invest in companies which are researching, producing and selling energy-efficient and water-efficient goods. Think wind farms, solar panels and electric cars. This is one area in which financial reward and environmental impact can have an enormous overlap.
6. Share your ‘green’ ideas with others. Over the past century or so, global communications has grown in many, many ways. This has made it possible to share ideas and discoveries at an incredible rate. Here are just a few of the ways in which you can share your thoughts with others
- establish a not-for-profit group which teaches others how to live sustainably
- create a recycling collective with your neighbors, where each person is responsible for the collection and recycling of a particular material or product
NB : naturally there are a great many others. If you’ve developed or are aware of a scheme which is working well, be sure to leave a comment below. I’d love to hear about it.
7. Become politically active. If you’ve ever heard someone say ‘the government should do this‘ then this one’s for you. By becoming involved in politics – at any level with which you feel comfortable – you are able to help guide people to an incredible goal. Rather than sitting back and waiting for someone else to take action, make your own voice heard.
Tuesday 23 October 2012
You Can Make A Change
Feel sad as our event has been postponed? Don't worry! It is not that far away, as it has been reschedule to 31st of October 2012 and 1st of November 2012!
Below are the details for our event:
Venue: Dewan Seri Mutiara
Time: 8.30p.m. - 11.00 p.m.
Date: 31st of October 2012 and 1st of October 2012
Take a look of what we have prepared for you!
Below are the details for our event:
Venue: Dewan Seri Mutiara
Time: 8.30p.m. - 11.00 p.m.
Date: 31st of October 2012 and 1st of October 2012
Take a look of what we have prepared for you!
Brought to you by:
Sprouts 8
Production of Sprouts 8
Eagerly waiting for another production of Sprouts 8? Here comes another one, our official t-shirts for the year 2012/2013! We have limited stocks and be fast to grab a piece before it is too late! Just approach any Sprouts 8 members and ask them to buy it for you. It is that simple!Price: RM15.00
Size is based on availability
Brought to you by:
Sprouts 8
Sunday 21 October 2012
Banner Drawing Day
The Banner Drawing Day officially ended and we are glad that everything that we planned went on smoothly, thanks to everyone who had participated in this event. Your effort in making this event a success is appreciated and hope everyone of us had an enjoyable time together.
Brought to you by:
Sprouts 8
Friday 19 October 2012
Seven ways to protect the environment
Seven ways to protect the environment
We all want to protect our planet, but we're mostly too busy or too lazy to put up big change that would improve our lifestyle and save the environment.
These are 7 simple habits to implement in your everyday life which will make a difference. There is nothing new here but if you follow at least some of these tips, you can be proud of yourself participating in the protection of the environment.
These are 7 simple habits to implement in your everyday life which will make a difference. There is nothing new here but if you follow at least some of these tips, you can be proud of yourself participating in the protection of the environment.
- Use compact fluorescent light bulbs:
It is true that these bulbs are more expensive, but they last much longer and they can save energy and in the long term your electricity bill would be reduced. - Donate:
You have tons of clothes or things you want to get rid of. If they are still usable, give them to someone who needs them. You may also choose to give them to associations. These associations may sell them and collect a little money. Not only will you protect the environment, but you will also contribute to a good cause. - Turn off your devices:
When you do not use a house device, turn it off. For example, if you don't watch TV, turn it off. Turn off the light when you leave a room (even if you intend to return.) It's an easy habit to take up which will help you save a lot of money. - Walk or cycle:
Driving is one of the biggest causes of pollution. If you want to use your car, ask yourself the following question: do I really need my car? Walk or use your bike if the journey is a short one. - Detergent:
Follow the recommended dose of detergent to wash your clothes or dishes. - leaky faucets:
Watch leaky faucets, which can cause a significant increase in the the water bill. An average of 120 liters of water can be wasted due to a dripping faucet. - Rainwater:
Think of recovering rainwater. This water can be used for different purposes.
This list is far from being exhaustive but in addition to saving the environment, all these tips will help you save money.
Wednesday 17 October 2012
Heard of You Can Make A Change?
As depicted in the title, have you ever heard of "YOU CAN MAKE A CHANGE"? This is the theme for the upcoming SPROUTS 8 event for the whole university! Other than your friends in 8th college, you can invite people from the other colleges as well!
Details of the event is as follows:
Theme: You Can Make A Change
Date: 31st of October 2012 and 1st of November 2012
Venue: 8th College Seri Mutiara Hall, University of Malaya
Time : 8.30 p.m. to 11.00 p.m.
Have you ever satisfied your thirst for knowledge? Join us! Various types of booths will be set up to cater your desire to learn about our lovely environment! Games will be organised and attractive prizes will be given to all those who participate!
Want to get more out of it? Register as a participants on the first day and come again on the 2nd day to take part in a series of fun and beneficial activities that we have prepared for you. Join us for both days and you will be heavily rewarded!
TAKE NOTE:
At the end of our event on the 1st of October 2012, we sincerely hope that all residents of 8th college can switch off all the lights in the college, and that includes corridors, rooms, walkways, fields and courts, from 10.20p.m. to 10.30 p.m.
The duration is only 10 minutes, and we hope that this can be the beginning of something bigger the in the future. THINK OF ENVIRONMENT, THINK OF SPROUTS 8
By: Sprouts 8
Details of the event is as follows:
Theme: You Can Make A Change
Date: 31st of October 2012 and 1st of November 2012
Venue: 8th College Seri Mutiara Hall, University of Malaya
Time : 8.30 p.m. to 11.00 p.m.
Have you ever satisfied your thirst for knowledge? Join us! Various types of booths will be set up to cater your desire to learn about our lovely environment! Games will be organised and attractive prizes will be given to all those who participate!
Want to get more out of it? Register as a participants on the first day and come again on the 2nd day to take part in a series of fun and beneficial activities that we have prepared for you. Join us for both days and you will be heavily rewarded!
TAKE NOTE:
At the end of our event on the 1st of October 2012, we sincerely hope that all residents of 8th college can switch off all the lights in the college, and that includes corridors, rooms, walkways, fields and courts, from 10.20p.m. to 10.30 p.m.
The duration is only 10 minutes, and we hope that this can be the beginning of something bigger the in the future. THINK OF ENVIRONMENT, THINK OF SPROUTS 8
By: Sprouts 8
Friday 12 October 2012
Know our Environment Through Sprouts 8: You Can Make a Change
Eager for more information and tips on saving the environment? Do come and join us on 31st of October 2012 and 1st of November 2012 in Dewan Seri Mutiara, 8th Residential College, University of Malaya. We have tonnes of activities and free prizes waiting to be given to your hand. Do invite your friends to come along!
Details:
Theme: You Can Make A Change
Date: 31st of October 2012 and 1st of December 2012
Venue: 8th College Seri Mutiara Hall, University of Malaya
Time : 8.30 p.m. to 11.00 p.m.
Details:
Theme: You Can Make A Change
Date: 31st of October 2012 and 1st of December 2012
Venue: 8th College Seri Mutiara Hall, University of Malaya
Time : 8.30 p.m. to 11.00 p.m.
Organised by:
Sprouts 8
How To Save Water
How To Save Water
Saving water in the Kitchen
- Keep a bottle of drinking water in the refrigerator. Running the tap until the water is cool enough to drink is wasteful.
- When you clean your fish tank, use the "old" water on your plants. It's rich in nitrogen and phosphorous.
- Only run the dishwasher when you have a full load.
- Use the rinse-hold setting on the dishwasher, if it has one, rather than rinsing dishes under the tap.
- Look for information about the water efficiency performance of any product when making a purchase, however also check to see if the marketing claims are independently verified or substantiated.
- When washing dishes by hand, don't rinse them under a running tap. If you have two sinks, fill the second one with rinsing water. If you have only one sink, stack washed dishes in a dish rack and rinse them with a pan of hot water.
- Use the minimum amount of dishwashing detergent (when washing dishes by hand) as this will reduce the amount of rinsing required.
- Use only as much water as you need in the kettle to cut your electricity costs at the same time.
- When boiling vegetables, use just enough water to cover them and keep the lid on the saucepan. Your vegetables will boil quicker and it will save you water, power - not to mention preserving precious vitamins in the food.
- Flow controlled aerators for taps are inexpensive and can reduce water flow by 50 percent.
- Don't use running water to defrost frozen food. Ideally place food in refrigerator to defrost overnight - this is also the healthiest option.
- Where convenient and appropriate, try to capture "warm-up" water for use on plants, rinsing dishes, washing fruit and vegetables, or other cleaning tasks.
- Check for leaks and, if there are any dripping taps, replace washers or other components as required. Dripping taps can waste 30 – 200 litres of water per day, so make sure they are turned off properly.
Saving water in the bathroom
- Turn the tap off when brushing your teeth. A running tap uses about 16 litres of water per minute. Just wet your brush and fill a glass for rinsing.
- Don’t rinse your razor under a running tap. Fill the sink/basin with a little warm water for rinsing. This is just as effective as running water and far less wasteful.
Tips for the shower:
- Three star rated showerheads use no more than 9 litres of water per minute, while old style showerheads use 15 – 20 litres per minute. If you shower for six minutes, a water efficient showerhead can save up to 50 litres of water for each shower, or up to 20,000 litres of water per person per year.
- Use a bucket to collect water while waiting for the shower to get hot
- Take shorter showers. Limit showers to the time it takes to soap up, wash down, and rinse off. Remember that shorter showers also save on energy costs associtated with heating water.
- Make sure your hot water system thermostat is not set too high. Adding cold water to reduce the temperature of very hot water is wasteful.
- Use a shower timer. There are a range of manual and electronic timers ranging from simple four minute egg timers to more sophisticated electronic timers that either attach to the shower wall or showerhead or are wired into the wall during construction. These measure volume of water used or time and usually provide an audible tone.
Bathtub Tips:
- Only fill the tub with as much water as is required, for example when bathing babies or pets you don't need so much.
- Check the temperature as you fill, you don't want to have to add extra water to get the correct temperature after the bath is at the right level.
- It's very important to ensure that your plug doesn't leak. A new plug is a cheap water saver.
- Don’t let the used water go down the drain, especially in a drought. Often this water can be collected and used on the garden, however you should be careful because the soaps and detergents may kill some plants. Only use the water if it is safe to do so. (You could use it to wash your car).
Toilet Tips:
- If a new toilet is just out of the question, you can purchase small gadgets to reduce the volume used with each flush of an older style toilet.
They work by causing the toilet to flush only for the duration that you hold the button down - so pressing the button for a shorter period will save water.
Waterwizz (Toilet Water Saver) and Flexiflush are two examples of these gadgets. - Toilet cisterns can develop slow leaks, which waste litres of water each day. Check for new leaks by putting a few drops of food dye into the cistern. If you have a leak, coloured water will appear in the bowl before the toilet has been flushed.
Saving water in the laundry:
Washing Machine Tips
- Look for clothes washers that have a four or more star rating (WELS label) and seriously consider buying a front loading washer.
- Look for information about the water efficiency performance of any product when making a purchase, however also check to see if the marketing claims are independently verified or substantiated.
- If you are buying a new clothes washing machine, choose one with an economy setting or a four star water conservation rating.
- Adjust the water level to suit the size of the wash load - some new water efficient models will even do this for you.
- Wait until you have a full load before washing and you’ll save 10 litres of water for every wash and cut your electricity costs as well. Remember that some old washing machines can use up to a bathtub full of water per load.
- Use the sud-saver option, if your old machine has one, when you have several loads to wash.
Top Tap Tips
- Leaking taps can usually be fixed with a new washer. This is easy to do - just remember to turn the water off at the main first.
If a tap still drips after fitting a new washer, you should call a plumber. By paying the plumber once, you’ll save money on each water account. - Fixing a leaking hot tap will save you money on your gas or electricity and water account.
- Make sure your hot water system thermostat is not set too high. Adding cold water to cool very hot water is wasteful.
Top water saving tips:
- Change shower head
- Reduce shower time
- Install toilet weights
- Fix leaks immediately
- Always use a full load
Wednesday 10 October 2012
Rio+20 Aimed for “Sustainable Energy for All”
The UN’s Sustainable Energy for All
initiative aims to drive economic development, improve living
conditions, and protect the planet by meeting growing energy demands
with renewable, environmentally responsible sources. Will Rio+20 be someday seen as the launchpad for these accomplishments or simply another missed opportunity?
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon touted the new program at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20). Still in its first year, Sustainable Energy for All has already engaged governments, businesses, and other groups to assess their national energy sectors and drive strategic reforms in pursuit of three year 2030 goals:
-Universal access to modern energy services
-Doubling the share of renewable energy in use today
-Doubling the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency
“Achieving sustainable energy for all is not only possible, but
necessary. It is the golden thread that connects development, social
inclusion, and environmental protection,” said Secretary-General Ban
Ki-moon in Rio. “This initiative is already mobilizing significant
action from all sectors of society. Working together, we can provide
solutions that drive economic growth, expand equity and reduce the risks
of climate change.”
Rio+20 attendees highlighted some of the many commitments already announced under the sweeping program. Business and investors have rallied some $50 billion to the cause so far, while governments, development banks, and other organizations have kicked in tens of billions more. More than 1 billion people stand to benefit from improved access to energy through both off-the-grid initiatives and improvements to conventional power structures.
Sharing developed world technologies with those abroad the EU’s “Energizing Development” program will give 500 million people access to sustainable energy services by 2030, and the United States has pledged some $42 billion (U.S.) in grants or loans for government regulatory programs and efforts to leverage private investments in clean energy. Developing nations from Ghana to Vietnam have launched national energy action plans under the program, and international funders include The World Bank, Bank of America, and the OPEC Fund for International Development.
Corporations are also investing in the sustainable initiative, from the tech leader Microsoft to the Italian energy giant Eni. The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers and 40 other professional associations are mobilizing more than 2 million members to support sustainable energy. Even the rock band Linkin Park is spearheading a “Power the World” campaign, under the Sustainable Energy for All initiative, to fight energy poverty.
Universal Access to Modern Energy Services by 2030
It’s easy to take power for granted in the developed world but one in five people globally, some 1.3 billion in all, don’t have reliable access to electricity. Ninety-five percent of these people live in developing Asia or sub-Saharan Africa. Many suffer health problems from cooking with toxic smoke-producing fuels and a lack of modern health facilities, inadequate educational opportunities, and stunted opportunities for environmental growth.
UN officials estimate that universal access by 2030 can become a reality at a cost of less than $50 billion (U.S.) a year—and that private sector investment is key to that effort.
Such investments stand to pay economic dividends as well. As people gain access to energy they launch a wide range of educational and economic initiatives from more productive farming practices to cottage manufacturing or home-based businesses. With the revenue earned through such ventures a new group of people can become more regular consumers of goods.
Doubling the Share of Renewable Energy in Use
Renewable energy sources currently make up about 15 percent of the world’s total use. But solar, wind, water, biomass, and geothermal sources are capable of producing much more—and the Secretary-General aims to double that total by 2030.
Renewable sources can often bring life-changing power to rural peoples who live far from electrical grids and have little realistic chance of connection to mainstream sources in the near future. Solar lamps allow shopkeepers to stay open at night in Bangladesh. Micro-hydro plants that use gravity and falling water to bring electricity to mountain villages in Nepal. Biomass mini-grids turn waste, like rice husks, into sustainable sources of power across Asia.
The costs of such technologies continue to drop and developed nations, too, are boosting their capacities for power generation through industries like wind and solar. The transition to these power producers creates jobs in the design, manufacture, installation, and maintenance of these system sources on both the industrial and household levels.
Doubling the Rate of Improvement in Energy Efficiency
No matter what type of energy is being used the world will benefit by using less of it to do the same job whether that be powering an appliance, heating a building, or fueling a car. Because fossil fuels are sure to be a dominant part of the energy mix for decades to come increasing efficiency also means stretching a limited supply farther. That is increasingly important as energy consumption fueled by rising economies like India and China may grow by one-third by 2035.
Burning fewer fossil fuels also means mitigating harmful environmental consequences. The UN estimates that, by 2030, electricity consumption in buildings and industry can be cut by 14 percent due to efficiency gains. Such a drop would eliminate the need for some 1,300 mid-sized power plants.
The shift to energy efficiency also produces green jobs in building or retrofitting green buildings, and producing more efficient refrigerators, furnaces, automobiles and other products. Saving energy makes good business sense as well because it aids the bottom line for both companies and consumers.
The Sustainable Energy for All initiative is ambitious, in fact it’s meant to be world-changing, and it will take years to learn whether the commitments made at Rio truly mark the start of a new sustainable energy era. Some officials, at least, believe there is no turning back.
“Rio+20 marked a watershed understanding the plurality of roles required – alongside governments – to craft the future we want,” said Olav Kjørven, the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General for Development Policy.
Adapted from: http://newswatch.nationalgeographic.com/2012/08/09/rio20-kickstarted-bold-sustainable-energy-for-all-project/
UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon touted the new program at the United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20). Still in its first year, Sustainable Energy for All has already engaged governments, businesses, and other groups to assess their national energy sectors and drive strategic reforms in pursuit of three year 2030 goals:
-Universal access to modern energy services
-Doubling the share of renewable energy in use today
-Doubling the global rate of improvement in energy efficiency
 |
| This small wind turbine was on display alongside other green tech at the athletic pavilion at Rio+20. Photo: Brian Clark Howard |
Rio+20 attendees highlighted some of the many commitments already announced under the sweeping program. Business and investors have rallied some $50 billion to the cause so far, while governments, development banks, and other organizations have kicked in tens of billions more. More than 1 billion people stand to benefit from improved access to energy through both off-the-grid initiatives and improvements to conventional power structures.
Sharing developed world technologies with those abroad the EU’s “Energizing Development” program will give 500 million people access to sustainable energy services by 2030, and the United States has pledged some $42 billion (U.S.) in grants or loans for government regulatory programs and efforts to leverage private investments in clean energy. Developing nations from Ghana to Vietnam have launched national energy action plans under the program, and international funders include The World Bank, Bank of America, and the OPEC Fund for International Development.
Corporations are also investing in the sustainable initiative, from the tech leader Microsoft to the Italian energy giant Eni. The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers and 40 other professional associations are mobilizing more than 2 million members to support sustainable energy. Even the rock band Linkin Park is spearheading a “Power the World” campaign, under the Sustainable Energy for All initiative, to fight energy poverty.
Universal Access to Modern Energy Services by 2030
It’s easy to take power for granted in the developed world but one in five people globally, some 1.3 billion in all, don’t have reliable access to electricity. Ninety-five percent of these people live in developing Asia or sub-Saharan Africa. Many suffer health problems from cooking with toxic smoke-producing fuels and a lack of modern health facilities, inadequate educational opportunities, and stunted opportunities for environmental growth.
UN officials estimate that universal access by 2030 can become a reality at a cost of less than $50 billion (U.S.) a year—and that private sector investment is key to that effort.
Such investments stand to pay economic dividends as well. As people gain access to energy they launch a wide range of educational and economic initiatives from more productive farming practices to cottage manufacturing or home-based businesses. With the revenue earned through such ventures a new group of people can become more regular consumers of goods.
Doubling the Share of Renewable Energy in Use
Renewable energy sources currently make up about 15 percent of the world’s total use. But solar, wind, water, biomass, and geothermal sources are capable of producing much more—and the Secretary-General aims to double that total by 2030.
Renewable sources can often bring life-changing power to rural peoples who live far from electrical grids and have little realistic chance of connection to mainstream sources in the near future. Solar lamps allow shopkeepers to stay open at night in Bangladesh. Micro-hydro plants that use gravity and falling water to bring electricity to mountain villages in Nepal. Biomass mini-grids turn waste, like rice husks, into sustainable sources of power across Asia.
The costs of such technologies continue to drop and developed nations, too, are boosting their capacities for power generation through industries like wind and solar. The transition to these power producers creates jobs in the design, manufacture, installation, and maintenance of these system sources on both the industrial and household levels.
Doubling the Rate of Improvement in Energy Efficiency
No matter what type of energy is being used the world will benefit by using less of it to do the same job whether that be powering an appliance, heating a building, or fueling a car. Because fossil fuels are sure to be a dominant part of the energy mix for decades to come increasing efficiency also means stretching a limited supply farther. That is increasingly important as energy consumption fueled by rising economies like India and China may grow by one-third by 2035.
Burning fewer fossil fuels also means mitigating harmful environmental consequences. The UN estimates that, by 2030, electricity consumption in buildings and industry can be cut by 14 percent due to efficiency gains. Such a drop would eliminate the need for some 1,300 mid-sized power plants.
The shift to energy efficiency also produces green jobs in building or retrofitting green buildings, and producing more efficient refrigerators, furnaces, automobiles and other products. Saving energy makes good business sense as well because it aids the bottom line for both companies and consumers.
The Sustainable Energy for All initiative is ambitious, in fact it’s meant to be world-changing, and it will take years to learn whether the commitments made at Rio truly mark the start of a new sustainable energy era. Some officials, at least, believe there is no turning back.
“Rio+20 marked a watershed understanding the plurality of roles required – alongside governments – to craft the future we want,” said Olav Kjørven, the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General for Development Policy.
Adapted from: http://newswatch.nationalgeographic.com/2012/08/09/rio20-kickstarted-bold-sustainable-energy-for-all-project/
History of Sprouts 8
Sprouts 8 was founded in the year 2010 by 8 dedicated youth of Kinabalu Residential College, University of Malaya.
The use of plastics and polystyrene was not a rare sight, and do these people know that these stuff are actually harmful to our environment?
The lack of environmental awareness had inspire them to start a project, which could help in protecting our Mother Earth. The project was given the name, SPROUTS 8.
We hope that everyone of us could be inspired by our aim, towards a better world. Share this page or our blogs with your friends and you can proudly say that you have done something for the environment.
Our Motto:
A GREEN ENVIRONMENT, OUR RESPONSIBILITY TOGETHER.
The use of plastics and polystyrene was not a rare sight, and do these people know that these stuff are actually harmful to our environment?
The lack of environmental awareness had inspire them to start a project, which could help in protecting our Mother Earth. The project was given the name, SPROUTS 8.
We hope that everyone of us could be inspired by our aim, towards a better world. Share this page or our blogs with your friends and you can proudly say that you have done something for the environment.
Our Motto:
A GREEN ENVIRONMENT, OUR RESPONSIBILITY TOGETHER.
MIMA’s World Oceans Week
MIMA’s World Oceans Week (WOW) 2012,
Maritime Career and Awareness Programme Youth: The next wave for change
This
year, for the first time UM will be the venue partner for the Maritime
Institute of Malaysia (MIMA) World Oceans Week (WOW) 2012 celebration.
MIMA WOW is a public outreach campaign and it is a part of an annual
flagship event to celebrate the importance of the oceans. It will serve
as a platform to enhance the interests of the maritime domain through
promoting awareness of the role of oceans in the wellbeing of humans.
The objectives are to celebrate World Oceans Day in appreciation of the
importance of oceans to the balance of ecosystems and human wellbeing,
place MIMA in the forefront of enhancing maritime awareness, provide a
platform for networking and exchange of information among the different
maritime interest groups in Malaysia, and spur interest among youth to
consider the maritime sector as a viable and long-term career path. A
number of activities will be organised including awareness talks, an
underwater videography workshop, and a forum on career opportunities in
the maritime sector in Malaysia. The event will be held at the UM Dewan
Perdana Siswa and its surrounding area.
Maritime Career and Awareness Programme Youth: The next wave for change
13 – 14 October 2012, UM Dewan Perdana Siswa
Website: http://www.mima.gov.my
This
year, for the first time UM will be the venue partner for the Maritime
Institute of Malaysia (MIMA) World Oceans Week (WOW) 2012 celebration.
MIMA WOW is a public outreach campaign and it is a part of an annual
flagship event to celebrate the importance of the oceans. It will serve
as a platform to enhance the interests of the maritime domain through
promoting awareness of the role of oceans in the wellbeing of humans.
The objectives are to celebrate World Oceans Day in appreciation of the
importance of oceans to the balance of ecosystems and human wellbeing,
place MIMA in the forefront of enhancing maritime awareness, provide a
platform for networking and exchange of information among the different
maritime interest groups in Malaysia, and spur interest among youth to
consider the maritime sector as a viable and long-term career path. A
number of activities will be organised including awareness talks, an
underwater videography workshop, and a forum on career opportunities in
the maritime sector in Malaysia. The event will be held at the UM Dewan
Perdana Siswa and its surrounding area.
All
these events are a part of UMCARES collaborative public outreach
activity with other partners in promoting sustainable lifestyle in
Malaysia. Do join us and take this opportunity to enhance your
knowledge, sense of community and contribution in promoting
sustainability in our campus and beyond!
Shared by: Sprouts 8
Monday 8 October 2012
Recycling @ Kinabalu
Sprouts 8 have just done with their job of collecting recyclable items from the residents of Kinabalu Residential College. It is a a success as all Kinabalu residents have given their full support to our effort to save the environment.
Hope, the passion to embark on the journey to a better environment will have the support from greater audiences in the future.
We, representing Sprouts 8 to thank you everyone who have given us the support and your contribution will be appreciated. Thank you.
Hope, the passion to embark on the journey to a better environment will have the support from greater audiences in the future.
We, representing Sprouts 8 to thank you everyone who have given us the support and your contribution will be appreciated. Thank you.
Building an ecologically conscious nation through films
About
Featuring
award-winning international and local environmental films by renowned
film makers, the Festival is a platform for all Malaysians to learn, be
engaged and empowered to take environmental issues seriously.
Mission
- To empower more Malaysians to take a proactive approach in addressing environmental issues through films;
- To bring to closer attention human activities that contribute to global climate change; and
- To engage more youths to take part in the Festival as a tool to increase their knowledge and appreciation for environmental issues.
Description
The
Kuala Lumpur Eco Film Festival is the first and biggest of its kind in
Malaysia. Featuring award-winning international environmental films by
renowned film makers, the Festival is a platform for all Malaysians to
learn, be engaged and empowered to take environmental issues seriously.
The Kuala Lumpur Eco Film Fest is NOT just about films - it is about empowering all Malaysians to take on a gr
The Kuala Lumpur Eco Film Fest is NOT just about films - it is about empowering all Malaysians to take on a gr
eener
approach in their normal daily activities. Whether you're an IT geek,
or a housewife, or a creative designer, the Fest caters to everyone's
interests and needs by offering greener options. So if you're thinking
of using more eco-friendly stationeries, come and check us out. If
you're wondering if organic food tastes any good, you'll be up for a
surprise at the Fest. And if you are skeptical about solar panels, or
other greeen gadgets, come on down to the Festival grounds to check
these items out!
KLEFF 2012 offers cash prizes in five distinct categories: Best International Film walks away with a cash prize of RM5,000; Best Malaysian Film, awarded to a film about, set in, or created by a resident Malaysia takes home a RM3,000 cash award; and Best Young Filmmaker Film (RM1,500) is awarded to a film crafted principally by a person under the age of 18. Additionally, each film selected to screen at Eco Film Fest is eligible for the Best Jury Award, which offers a RM500 cash prize. Each winning filmmaker also receives a stunning, handmade, pewter trophy.
UPCOMING DEADLINE
August 15th, 2012 - Regular Deadline
MISSION AND OBJECTIVE
An urgency to address local and global environmental issues that are impacting our daily lives, the Eco Film Festival celebrates some of the best and award-winning environmental films by bringing them to your local screening venue. The Eco Film Festival is dedicated to screening and rewarding environmental films from around the world that inspires, motivates and encourages mankind to take actions for a sustainable planet.
MORE ABOUT THE FESTIVAL
Founded in 2008, the Eco Film Festival has grown from humble beginnings into one of the more recognized and respected film festivals in Malaysia, with plans for continued expansion in the years to come. A spectacular location for a film festival, Malaysia is home to breathtaking fropical rainforests, rich in biodiversity (Malaysia is one of the 12th megadiverse countries in the world), and a thriving multi-racial culture. For its 2012 edition, the Eco Film Festival will screen films outside the Klang Valley to benefit audiences from other major cities in Malaysia.
Whether you are an established filmmaker submitting to Eco Film Festival for the first time, or an emerging short-form filmmaker just starting out and learning about the festival landscape, the Eco Film Festival is sure to offer an amazing screening experience in an unforgettable location. Submit to Eco Film Festival today!
For more information, please contact the KLEFF secretariat or EcoKnights at:
A-5-01 No. 1, Neo Damansara Jalan PJU 8/1 Bandar Damansara Perdana, 47820 Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.
Tel: +603-7731 2364 Fax: +603-7728 9399
KLEFF 2012 offers cash prizes in five distinct categories: Best International Film walks away with a cash prize of RM5,000; Best Malaysian Film, awarded to a film about, set in, or created by a resident Malaysia takes home a RM3,000 cash award; and Best Young Filmmaker Film (RM1,500) is awarded to a film crafted principally by a person under the age of 18. Additionally, each film selected to screen at Eco Film Fest is eligible for the Best Jury Award, which offers a RM500 cash prize. Each winning filmmaker also receives a stunning, handmade, pewter trophy.
UPCOMING DEADLINE
August 15th, 2012 - Regular Deadline
MISSION AND OBJECTIVE
An urgency to address local and global environmental issues that are impacting our daily lives, the Eco Film Festival celebrates some of the best and award-winning environmental films by bringing them to your local screening venue. The Eco Film Festival is dedicated to screening and rewarding environmental films from around the world that inspires, motivates and encourages mankind to take actions for a sustainable planet.
MORE ABOUT THE FESTIVAL
Founded in 2008, the Eco Film Festival has grown from humble beginnings into one of the more recognized and respected film festivals in Malaysia, with plans for continued expansion in the years to come. A spectacular location for a film festival, Malaysia is home to breathtaking fropical rainforests, rich in biodiversity (Malaysia is one of the 12th megadiverse countries in the world), and a thriving multi-racial culture. For its 2012 edition, the Eco Film Festival will screen films outside the Klang Valley to benefit audiences from other major cities in Malaysia.
Whether you are an established filmmaker submitting to Eco Film Festival for the first time, or an emerging short-form filmmaker just starting out and learning about the festival landscape, the Eco Film Festival is sure to offer an amazing screening experience in an unforgettable location. Submit to Eco Film Festival today!
For more information, please contact the KLEFF secretariat or EcoKnights at:
A-5-01 No. 1, Neo Damansara Jalan PJU 8/1 Bandar Damansara Perdana, 47820 Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.
Tel: +603-7731 2364 Fax: +603-7728 9399
General Information
A free festival for Malaysians and non-Malaysians from all walks of life. Saturday 6 October 2012
Effects of Global Warming
Signs Are Everywhere
 |
| Photograph by Ilya Naymushin/Reuters/Corbis |
Some impacts from increasing temperatures are already happening.
- Ice is melting worldwide, especially at the Earth’s poles. This includes mountain glaciers, ice sheets covering West Antarctica and Greenland, and Arctic sea ice.
- Researcher Bill Fraser has tracked the decline of the Adélie penguins on Antarctica, where their numbers have fallen from 32,000 breeding pairs to 11,000 in 30 years.
- Sea level rise became faster over the last century.
- Some butterflies, foxes, and alpine plants have moved farther north or to higher, cooler areas.
- Precipitation (rain and snowfall) has increased across the globe, on average.
- Spruce bark beetles have boomed in Alaska thanks to 20 years of warm summers. The insects have chewed up 4 million acres of spruce trees.
- Sea levels are expected to rise between 7 and 23 inches (18 and 59 centimeters) by the end of the century, and continued melting at the poles could add between 4 and 8 inches (10 to 20 centimeters).
- Hurricanes and other storms are likely to become stronger.
- Species that depend on one another may become out of sync. For example, plants could bloom earlier than their pollinating insects become active.
- Floods and droughts will become more common. Rainfall in Ethiopia, where droughts are already common, could decline by 10 percent over the next 50 years.
- Less fresh water will be available. If the Quelccaya ice cap in Peru continues to melt at its current rate, it will be gone by 2100, leaving thousands of people who rely on it for drinking water and electricity without a source of either.
- Some diseases will spread, such as malaria carried by mosquitoes.
- Ecosystems will change—some species will move farther north or become more successful; others won’t be able to move and could become extinct. Wildlife research scientist Martyn Obbard has found that since the mid-1980s, with less ice on which to live and fish for food, polar bears have gotten considerably skinnier. Polar bear biologist Ian Stirling has found a similar pattern in Hudson Bay. He fears that if sea ice disappears, the polar bears will as well.
From: http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/global-warming/gw-effects/
Global Warming Solutions
What Can We Do?
The evidence that humans are causing global warming is
strong, but the question of what to do about it remains controversial.
Economics, sociology, and politics are all important factors in planning
for the future.
Even if we stopped emitting greenhouse gases (GHGs) today, the Earth would still warm by another degree Fahrenheit or so. But what we do from today forward makes a big difference. Depending on our choices, scientists predict that the Earth could eventually warm by as little as 2.5 degrees or as much as 10 degrees Fahrenheit.
A commonly cited goal is to stabilize GHG concentrations around 450-550 parts per million (ppm), or about twice pre-industrial levels. This is the point at which many believe the most damaging impacts of climate change can be avoided. Current concentrations are about 380 ppm, which means there isn't much time to lose. According to the IPCC, we'd have to reduce GHG emissions by 50% to 80% of what they're on track to be in the next century to reach this level.
Is this possible?
Many people and governments are already working hard to cut greenhouse gases, and everyone can help.
Researchers Stephen Pacala and Robert Socolow at Princeton University have suggested one approach that they call "stabilization wedges." This means reducing GHG emissions from a variety of sources with technologies available in the next few decades, rather than relying on an enormous change in a single area. They suggest 7 wedges that could each reduce emissions, and all of them together could hold emissions at approximately current levels for the next 50 years, putting us on a potential path to stabilize around 500 ppm.
There are many possible wedges, including improvements to energy efficiency and vehicle fuel economy (so less energy has to be produced), and increases in wind and solar power, hydrogen produced from renewable sources, biofuels (produced from crops), natural gas, and nuclear power. There is also the potential to capture the carbon dioxide emitted from fossil fuels and store it underground—a process called "carbon sequestration."
In addition to reducing the gases we emit to the atmosphere, we can also increase the amount of gases we take out of the atmosphere. Plants and trees absorb CO2 as they grow, "sequestering" carbon naturally. Increasing forestlands and making changes to the way we farm could increase the amount of carbon we're storing.
Some of these technologies have drawbacks, and different communities will make different decisions about how to power their lives, but the good news is that there are a variety of options to put us on a path toward a stable climate.
Adapted from: http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/global-warming/gw-solutions
 |
| Photograph by Paul Nicklen |
Even if we stopped emitting greenhouse gases (GHGs) today, the Earth would still warm by another degree Fahrenheit or so. But what we do from today forward makes a big difference. Depending on our choices, scientists predict that the Earth could eventually warm by as little as 2.5 degrees or as much as 10 degrees Fahrenheit.
A commonly cited goal is to stabilize GHG concentrations around 450-550 parts per million (ppm), or about twice pre-industrial levels. This is the point at which many believe the most damaging impacts of climate change can be avoided. Current concentrations are about 380 ppm, which means there isn't much time to lose. According to the IPCC, we'd have to reduce GHG emissions by 50% to 80% of what they're on track to be in the next century to reach this level.
Is this possible?
Many people and governments are already working hard to cut greenhouse gases, and everyone can help.
Researchers Stephen Pacala and Robert Socolow at Princeton University have suggested one approach that they call "stabilization wedges." This means reducing GHG emissions from a variety of sources with technologies available in the next few decades, rather than relying on an enormous change in a single area. They suggest 7 wedges that could each reduce emissions, and all of them together could hold emissions at approximately current levels for the next 50 years, putting us on a potential path to stabilize around 500 ppm.
There are many possible wedges, including improvements to energy efficiency and vehicle fuel economy (so less energy has to be produced), and increases in wind and solar power, hydrogen produced from renewable sources, biofuels (produced from crops), natural gas, and nuclear power. There is also the potential to capture the carbon dioxide emitted from fossil fuels and store it underground—a process called "carbon sequestration."
In addition to reducing the gases we emit to the atmosphere, we can also increase the amount of gases we take out of the atmosphere. Plants and trees absorb CO2 as they grow, "sequestering" carbon naturally. Increasing forestlands and making changes to the way we farm could increase the amount of carbon we're storing.
Some of these technologies have drawbacks, and different communities will make different decisions about how to power their lives, but the good news is that there are a variety of options to put us on a path toward a stable climate.
Adapted from: http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/global-warming/gw-solutions
Thursday 4 October 2012
International Ozone Day
INTERNATIONAL OZONE DAY | 16 SEPTEMBER 2012
The ozone layer naturally occur about 16 Í 50 km above the earth surface. The thickness of this
natural layer above the earth need to be sustained as it acts as a protective layer that absorbs the
harmful ultra-violet (UV) rays from the sun. Excessive exposure tothe UV rays will cause skin cancer, eye cataracts, weaken our body resistance to fight disease as well as affect the food chain.
Excessive use of chemicals known ozone depleting substances (ODS) can deplete the ozone layer.
These include refrigerants such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC)
that are largely used in oars, busses and other motor vehicles, air-conditioners, domestic and
commercial refrigeration systems and buítcling chillers. Other types of ODS are Halon, which is used
in fire prevention equipments, methyl chloroform (111-TCA) as cleaning agents, carbon tetrachloride
(CTC) used in industries and Methyl bromide as pesticides used for soil treatment in
agriculture activities as well as for quarantine and pre-shipment especially for treatment of wood products.
Malaysia has Successfully complied with the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty, that required
the parties not to produce or import ohlorofluorocarbons (CFC), Halon and carbon tetra chloride by
1 January 2010. Likewise, the use of ozone depleting substances such HCFC will be phased out by
2030. Malaysia and other parties to the Montreal Protocol are implementing the HCFC Phase out
Plan (HPMP) by using alternative technologies in the manufacturing of foam products,
aír-conditioners and refrigerators. ln addition, regulatory actions will be implemented to control the
importation and consumption of HCFC in manufacturing and servicing sector. The control of HCFC will be enforced starting january 2013.
In conjunction with the 25th Anniversary of the International Ozone Day celebrated on 16 September
2012, with the theme ‘Protecting Our Atmosphere for Generations to Come’, let us together pledge
to save the ozone layer for the well-being of mankind and future of this planet earth.
Adapted from: http://www.doe.gov.my/portal/announcemenment-to-public/international-ozone-day-16-september-2012/
natural layer above the earth need to be sustained as it acts as a protective layer that absorbs the
harmful ultra-violet (UV) rays from the sun. Excessive exposure tothe UV rays will cause skin cancer, eye cataracts, weaken our body resistance to fight disease as well as affect the food chain.
Excessive use of chemicals known ozone depleting substances (ODS) can deplete the ozone layer.
These include refrigerants such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFC) and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC)
that are largely used in oars, busses and other motor vehicles, air-conditioners, domestic and
commercial refrigeration systems and buítcling chillers. Other types of ODS are Halon, which is used
in fire prevention equipments, methyl chloroform (111-TCA) as cleaning agents, carbon tetrachloride
(CTC) used in industries and Methyl bromide as pesticides used for soil treatment in
agriculture activities as well as for quarantine and pre-shipment especially for treatment of wood products.
Malaysia has Successfully complied with the Montreal Protocol, an international treaty, that required the parties not to produce or import ohlorofluorocarbons (CFC), Halon and carbon tetra chloride by
1 January 2010. Likewise, the use of ozone depleting substances such HCFC will be phased out by
2030. Malaysia and other parties to the Montreal Protocol are implementing the HCFC Phase out
Plan (HPMP) by using alternative technologies in the manufacturing of foam products,
aír-conditioners and refrigerators. ln addition, regulatory actions will be implemented to control the
importation and consumption of HCFC in manufacturing and servicing sector. The control of HCFC will be enforced starting january 2013.
In conjunction with the 25th Anniversary of the International Ozone Day celebrated on 16 September
2012, with the theme ‘Protecting Our Atmosphere for Generations to Come’, let us together pledge
to save the ozone layer for the well-being of mankind and future of this planet earth.
“PROTECTING OUR ATMOSPHERE FOR GENERATIONS TO COME”
25 Years Of The Montreal Protocol
Adapted from: http://www.doe.gov.my/portal/announcemenment-to-public/international-ozone-day-16-september-2012/
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