Irene Schleining, Director of Whale of a Time said, that "I think that we got to really push the reasons for change. There is a lot of controversy and polarisation on climate change issues. The reason being there are huge oil companies that don’t want us to move too fast. Maybe they are juggling the market price of oil but whatever it is, it’s going to be a question of business. We need to put the emphasis on the question of should we maintain “business as usual” or is this also a change of consciousness. We need to realise that climate change is not a business question anymore because should we win the business instead of nature then we’ll be out of business soon. I think that priority has to be given to the fact that nature is not going to play our games. Nature is going to play by the law of nature. We’re loosing species at an unprecedented rate. What value has the atmosphere to our lives. What value has an ecosystem and biodiversity for our atmosphere? I think that these are the questions that should be taken into consideration for a sustainable future."
Thursday, 3 December 2009
Climate Debate with Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change
Irene Schleining, Director of Whale of a Time said, that "I think that we got to really push the reasons for change. There is a lot of controversy and polarisation on climate change issues. The reason being there are huge oil companies that don’t want us to move too fast. Maybe they are juggling the market price of oil but whatever it is, it’s going to be a question of business. We need to put the emphasis on the question of should we maintain “business as usual” or is this also a change of consciousness. We need to realise that climate change is not a business question anymore because should we win the business instead of nature then we’ll be out of business soon. I think that priority has to be given to the fact that nature is not going to play our games. Nature is going to play by the law of nature. We’re loosing species at an unprecedented rate. What value has the atmosphere to our lives. What value has an ecosystem and biodiversity for our atmosphere? I think that these are the questions that should be taken into consideration for a sustainable future."
Sunday, 22 November 2009
Biodiversity loss is undermining global development
22 September 2009
Links:
Policy suggestion in Science
Professor James Mallet
Centre for Ecology and Evolution
Goals set to alleviate extreme poverty will not be met unless we address the accelerating rate of biodiversity loss, warn UCL scientists in a paper published in the latest issue of Science.
Professor James Mallet and Professor Sandra Knapp – the co-directors of UCL’s Centre for Ecology and Evolution – have joined with scientists from the Zoological Society of London and other eminent biodiversity scientists and policy makers led by Professor Jeffrey Sachs of Columbia University to draw the world’s attention to the fact that development problems will not be solved if policy makers continue to ignore the environment.
The scientists write that the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) aim to halve extreme poverty by 2015, but that these ambitions are being compromised by our inability to live sustainably.
The authors call for more research into the complex links between biodiversity and poverty, so that informed decisions can be made about environmental services, such as land use, to the benefit of both poverty alleviation and conservation.
As the world spectacularly fails to meet the targets set by the Convention on Biological Diversity to reduce biodiversity loss in 2010, the authors highlight the urgent need to set new achievable targets within the remaining MDG period.
Professor Mallet said: “Loss of biodiversity is bound to make people poorer in the long run. This policy forum document, supported and underwritten by a large number of British conservationists and biodiversity specialists, argues that we need more integrated thinking both in poverty alleviation and in biodiversity conservation.
“We have signed up to the Millennium Development Goals (MDG), which aim to halve extreme poverty by 2015. We are also committed, via, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), to achieve by 2010 a significant reduction in biodiversity loss. Therefore, we need to find means of poverty reduction which at the same time will impact the environment and biodiversity as little as possible, given the goals. We need joint policies, not a piecemeal approach.
“Threatened species are often (though not always) found in areas where poverty problems are greatest. Our piece argues for better research into effects of poverty reduction measures on biodiversity, and for policy makers to adopt a more synergistic strategy to ensure, as far as possible, compliance to both MDG and CBD commitments.”
To find out more, follow the links at the top of this item.
Image: Map of poverty and potential biodiversity loss, showing the level of poverty (proxied by the log rate of human infant mortality) combined with the log number of threatened species of mammals, birds, and amphibians per one-degree grid square. White areas represent missing data
UCL Context
The Centre for Ecology and Evolution is a joint venture between UCL, the Institute of Zoology (Zoological Society of London), Natural History Museum, Imperial, Queen Mary, Royal Holloway and Kew Gardens, and has strong links with other institutions in London. It is a centre of excellence in research and teaching based on the understanding that ecology and evolution are vibrant, basic sciences, and research in these areas underpins our understanding of conservation, agriculture and medicine.
Related news
Copenhagen climate change conference vital for human future
Mainstreaming disability within the UN Millennium Development Goals
Links:
Policy suggestion in Science
Professor James Mallet
Centre for Ecology and Evolution
Goals set to alleviate extreme poverty will not be met unless we address the accelerating rate of biodiversity loss, warn UCL scientists in a paper published in the latest issue of Science.
Professor James Mallet and Professor Sandra Knapp – the co-directors of UCL’s Centre for Ecology and Evolution – have joined with scientists from the Zoological Society of London and other eminent biodiversity scientists and policy makers led by Professor Jeffrey Sachs of Columbia University to draw the world’s attention to the fact that development problems will not be solved if policy makers continue to ignore the environment.
The scientists write that the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) aim to halve extreme poverty by 2015, but that these ambitions are being compromised by our inability to live sustainably.
The authors call for more research into the complex links between biodiversity and poverty, so that informed decisions can be made about environmental services, such as land use, to the benefit of both poverty alleviation and conservation.
As the world spectacularly fails to meet the targets set by the Convention on Biological Diversity to reduce biodiversity loss in 2010, the authors highlight the urgent need to set new achievable targets within the remaining MDG period.
Professor Mallet said: “Loss of biodiversity is bound to make people poorer in the long run. This policy forum document, supported and underwritten by a large number of British conservationists and biodiversity specialists, argues that we need more integrated thinking both in poverty alleviation and in biodiversity conservation.
“We have signed up to the Millennium Development Goals (MDG), which aim to halve extreme poverty by 2015. We are also committed, via, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), to achieve by 2010 a significant reduction in biodiversity loss. Therefore, we need to find means of poverty reduction which at the same time will impact the environment and biodiversity as little as possible, given the goals. We need joint policies, not a piecemeal approach.
“Threatened species are often (though not always) found in areas where poverty problems are greatest. Our piece argues for better research into effects of poverty reduction measures on biodiversity, and for policy makers to adopt a more synergistic strategy to ensure, as far as possible, compliance to both MDG and CBD commitments.”
To find out more, follow the links at the top of this item.
Image: Map of poverty and potential biodiversity loss, showing the level of poverty (proxied by the log rate of human infant mortality) combined with the log number of threatened species of mammals, birds, and amphibians per one-degree grid square. White areas represent missing data
UCL Context
The Centre for Ecology and Evolution is a joint venture between UCL, the Institute of Zoology (Zoological Society of London), Natural History Museum, Imperial, Queen Mary, Royal Holloway and Kew Gardens, and has strong links with other institutions in London. It is a centre of excellence in research and teaching based on the understanding that ecology and evolution are vibrant, basic sciences, and research in these areas underpins our understanding of conservation, agriculture and medicine.
Related news
Copenhagen climate change conference vital for human future
Mainstreaming disability within the UN Millennium Development Goals
Saturday, 21 November 2009
A SHORT HISTORY OF MEDICINE
"Doctor, I have an ear ache."
2000 B.C. - "Here, eat this root."
1000 B.C. - "That root is heathen, say this prayer."
1850 A.D. - "That prayer is superstition, drink this potion."
1940 A.D. - "That potion is snake oil, swallow this pill."
1985 A.D. - "That pill is ineffective, take this antibiotic."
2000 A.D. - "That antibiotic is artificial. Here, eat this root!"
2000 B.C. - "Here, eat this root."
1000 B.C. - "That root is heathen, say this prayer."
1850 A.D. - "That prayer is superstition, drink this potion."
1940 A.D. - "That potion is snake oil, swallow this pill."
1985 A.D. - "That pill is ineffective, take this antibiotic."
2000 A.D. - "That antibiotic is artificial. Here, eat this root!"
Monday, 16 November 2009
Whale of a Time has been nominated a Finalists of the Archant London Environmental Awards 2009
Whale of a Time is proud to announce that the Whale of a Time Community has been nomminated a finalist of the
Sunday, 15 November 2009
Annual Science Lecture 2009: The Value of Nature
The Value of Nature
16 November 2009
£13.50
£10.00 concessions (over 60s, unemployed, Members, Corporate Patrons)
Doors and bar open from 18.45
Admittance to lecture from 19.30
Leading economist and green initiative leader Pavan Sukdhev presents this year's highly topical Annual Science Lecture on The Value of Nature, and weighs up how biodiversity loss will affect the world's economy.
You don't need to be an expert to enjoy this fascinating lecture in the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings of the Museum's Central Hall.
16 November 2009
£13.50
£10.00 concessions (over 60s, unemployed, Members, Corporate Patrons)
Doors and bar open from 18.45
Admittance to lecture from 19.30
Leading economist and green initiative leader Pavan Sukdhev presents this year's highly topical Annual Science Lecture on The Value of Nature, and weighs up how biodiversity loss will affect the world's economy.
You don't need to be an expert to enjoy this fascinating lecture in the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings of the Museum's Central Hall.
News 24 - Humans 'wiping out capital'
Cape Town - The world was losing as much potential capital annually through the destruction of forests as was wiped off the major markets in last year's financial crisis, an economist warned on Friday.
Thursday, 5 November 2009
Opportunities in Performing Arts…
Opportunities in Performing Arts…
Jungle Theatre Company is offering a FREE 2 year training course to 18-25 year olds with some acting experience or theatre exposure, leading to job opportunities in children’s socio-environmental theatre. The programme will include various performance skills; facilitation; prop and costume making and equip trainees with tools to become professionals in the arts industry. The programme includes the creation and performance of new works, which will be toured to schools as part of the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund funded project.
To apply please send a letter of motivation/CV and copy of ID to info@jungletheatre.co.za or fax 021 788 5643 by 20th November 2009. Phone 021 788 5641 for more information. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an audition on 1st December 2009 in Kalk Bay.
There are no registration or attendance fees.
Transport stipends will available for the selected trainees,
for the duration of the course.
Jungle Theatre Company is offering a FREE 2 year training course to 18-25 year olds with some acting experience or theatre exposure, leading to job opportunities in children’s socio-environmental theatre. The programme will include various performance skills; facilitation; prop and costume making and equip trainees with tools to become professionals in the arts industry. The programme includes the creation and performance of new works, which will be toured to schools as part of the National Lottery Distribution Trust Fund funded project.
To apply please send a letter of motivation/CV and copy of ID to info@jungletheatre.co.za or fax 021 788 5643 by 20th November 2009. Phone 021 788 5641 for more information. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an audition on 1st December 2009 in Kalk Bay.
There are no registration or attendance fees.
Transport stipends will available for the selected trainees,
for the duration of the course.
Friday, 30 October 2009
Monday, 19 October 2009
The End Of The Line
A great educational documentary about the devastating effect of overfishing premiered at Sundance Film Festival
Is it a wake-up call for all of us?
Imagine an ocean without fish. Imagine your meals without seafood. Imagine the global consequences. This is the future if we do not stop, think and act.
Please watch the trailer of the forthcoming film:
Monday, 28 September 2009
Rainforests under threat!!!
Images show vast tracts of land cleared to grow palm oil sit alongside beautiful shots of natural world threatened by deforestation in a poignant new exhibition at Kew Gardens.
Focus on the Rainforests highlights the threat facing jungle in the Amazon Basin, Democratic Republic of Congo and Indonesia and the importance of its role in fighting climate change.
Sounds, video and even smells will accompany the images taken by Spanish photographer Daniel Beltra, who won this year's Prince's Rainforests Project Award at the Sony World Photography Awards.
Opens on Satruday and runs until 6th December. The showcase will then tour to Paris and Berlin.
Thursday, 10 September 2009
Our Generation Promo
This project started out in June 2007, in response to the Howard Government’s controversial “Emergency Intervention” into Aboriginal communities in Australia’s remote Northern Territory. All in the name of “protecting children”, the Intervention took away all existing Aboriginal land rights, suspended the Racial Discrimination Act and placed over 70 communities under compulsory government control. Subsequent government measures have had little to do with directly improving the wellbeing of children, but instead have disempowered traditional owners, opened up access to valuable Aboriginal land, and sought to forcibly assimilate Aboriginal culture.... Read more at http://ourgeneration.org.au/about-2
Thursday, 23 July 2009
The Lifeline
9 filmmakers, 18,000 miles, 1 Planet to save.
Crossing 7 continents in search of sustainable solutions,
the Lifeline’s mission is to document the people and communities creating ways to save our Planet, and to make these ways accessible to all of Humankind.
…Calling 999…
It's an emergency and we need your help.
Will you become part of the Lifeline for our future?
With human activity eroding the Earth’s basic life support systems through pollution and mismanagement, environmental deadlines are fast approaching.
On the 9th September 2009 – 999 day - the Lifeline will send three filmmaking teams from New York, London and Sydney to Buenos Aires, Capetown and Tokyo on an epic 13 month, 18,000-mile journey ending on 10.10.10, Their mission is to document the accomplishments being undertaken by individuals and communities to support the sustainability of our planet and raise human consciousness to save Life on Earth.
The Lifeline’s film making teams are in place and raring to go. Guiding them is Phil Stebbing, a British award winning National Geographic and Discovery Channel filmmaker, Shelly Bomb, an accomplished New York event’s producer and Laurence Singer, a New York attorney specialising in media and non-profit organisations.
Filming the latest solar generation plants, organic farms, fair trade co-operatives, reforestation projects, marine reserves, eco villages and other exciting initiatives, the Lifeline will produce a digital ark of short films for its social networking website, to show how we can all incorporate sustainable ways of living into our own lives.
To further spread the message the Lifeline’s journeys will be made into a six part television series, currently in negotiation with a major broadcaster, to be screened in 2010. In order to create the definitive worldwide guide to sustainability, The Lifeline will also produce a set of DVD’s to connect and inspire people across the world that humanity can change and create solutions for our future and for generations to come.
There are less than 60 days to launch so we would really appreciate if you could check out our website or to join the Lifeline on facebook.
http://apps.facebook.com/causes/181303/4540272?m=646ae194
It’s time for change, if not now, when and by who?
Saturday, 29 November 2008
Whale of a Time at Sail, Power & Watersports Show
People express their creativity and connect with animals and develop their relationship with nature. You can find all the great master pieces in the Whale of a Time Art Gallery including creations of abstract impressions of ocean waves, dolphins, sea snakes, whales, octopi, great white sharks, boats and divers. You can also view the Whale of a Time Gallery here.
Whale of a Time raises awareness through creative workshops on environmental issues while providing a fun environment to learn about endangered marine species and habitat destruction. We believe that we can learn through developing a loving relation with nature while having a whale of a time. You can read more about the project at www.whaleofatime.org
Responses included the following:
James Brooke, Show’s Managing Director, said, "Thank you so much! You've made the show!"
Sarah Brooke (wife of James Brook, organiser of the show) said, "My sons couldn't wait to get back to do the workshop. They love it! Not only do the children love this but I feel I’ve gone back to my artistic days. So much fun you have to be here next year.”
Robin Brooke, father of James Brooke, said “This has been a fun experience for all the family and has made the kids more aware of the importance of our wonderful sea creatures.”
Richard Yeoward, former Vice Chair WWF, said, "Conservation works best when the people are involved."
Mike (10) said, “I think that this workshop was amazing. I love moulding clay! Thank you!”
Alexander (7) said, “I think this was fun!!!!”
Mother of Ali, Julian & Sophie (5) said, “What a fantastic idea! My daughter loved it! Thank you very much!”
Hedre (44) said, “What a wonderful idea to make the children - young and old aware!”
Cheggs (36), said, "Together we can heal the world. We all make a difference."
Andy (19), said “I really enjoyed myself, not done any sculpting before but I find it’s really cool and it made me think about endangered species.”
Irene Schleining, Founder of Whale of a Time, said, “We’re happy to be at the Sail, Power & Watersports Show again this year! We have had a whale of a time! We’ve had so many people here keen to have a go at making the models. The models they’ve made are beautiful and I have to say it’s rewarding to see the enthusiasm, especially the children, enjoying learning about the animals and to see how they get engaged with environmental issues which is the most important part of this workshop.”
Whale of a Time is based at K16 amongst lots of boats and is great entertainment for families, kids, teenagers, adults and anyone who is inspired by marine species and likes to express their creativity. We’re so happy to see everybody exploring their creativity and having a whale of a time! Read more about Whale of a Time projects at www.whaleofatime.org
Come and have a try!
Make a model of your favourite marine species in clay!
Come and explore your creativity and challenge your skills!
It’s free and fun!
Have a whale of a time!
Irene Schleining
Founder & Artist
Whale of a Time
Make a model of your favourite marine species in clay!
Come and explore your creativity and challenge your skills!
It’s free and fun!
Have a whale of a time!
Irene Schleining
Founder & Artist
Whale of a Time
Tuesday, 16 September 2008
Earthwatch Debate: Irreplaceable – the World’s Most Invaluable Species
Photo credits: Simon Reid
Thursday 20th November
7.00pm-9.00pm
The Royal Geographical Society
1 Kensington Gore
The ever-popular and thought-provoking Earthwatch Debate this year focuses on the world’s most irreplaceable species – choose between bees, bats, fungi, plankton and primates (but not man!), championed by leaders in their field.
Chair - Andrea Catherwood, TV broadcaster & independent film producer
Our speakers for the evening:
Bees - Dr. George McGavin, Honorary Research Associate,
Fungi - Prof. Lynne Boddy,
Plankton - Prof. David Thomas,
Primates - Ian Redmond OBE, Chairman of the Ape
Entrance free to Earthwatch supporters; otherwise a small donation will be requested on the door. Optional buffet supper, 9.00-10.30 – supper tickets £25.00
For tickets and more information, please contact the Earthwatch Europe Events Department on (01865) 318856; events@earthwatch.org.uk
Earthwatch Lecture - Shrinking Habitats, Species Survival
Thursday 16th October7.00pm-8.30pm
The Royal Geographical Society
1 Kensington Gore
Dr. Dawn Scott (University of Brighton) & Dr. Rich Reading (Denver Zoological Foundation) will be giving talks on their Earthwatch projects, ‘South Africa’s Brown Hyenas’ and ‘Wildlife of the Mongolian Steppe’, species in the one case often unfairly maligned, and in the other, sadly under- researched.
By ticket only - free to Earthwatch supporters, otherwise a small donation is requested on the door.
Contact the Earthwatch Europe Events Department on +44 (0) 1865 318856. Email: events@earthwatch.org.uk.
Photo credits: Dawn Scott
Friday, 8 August 2008
A Review of Whale of a Time Feat. Eco-Artists
Dear Friends of the Whales,
Thank you all for coming to our event on 27th July and for your amazing support and participation. David Rothenberg told his story of his involvement with whales and dolphins and also performed live-music with his clarinet accompanied by whale sounds, which he plays to the whales. His music sounds just like the whales themselves. It’s a fascinating story how David got started with his first recordings to his standing today as a world authority on whale communication. He explained how music is a universal language and the importance of inter-species communication. There are only a few people around the world are interested in this and he wonders why there aren’t more people interested in this aspect of animal life. The world of animal sounds is a creative world full of fun and exciting responses. It’s like making music and understanding how musicians see the world through the music they make. That’s the language of the whales. You may view David’s profile at http://www.whaleofatime.org/davidrothenberg.php
We also had a fantastic talk by Michael Norton who gave an insight on how to change the world by telling stories and how people did this. There a one story that I’d like to mention which I believe is very inspiring for everyone out there. It’s the story of a little boy who was just 6 years old who asked his parents if he could have some money to build a well for people in Africa. He managed to raise enough money to build a well, and then went on to found his own organisation, which Oliver the last nine years has built nearly 300 wells and has provided fresh water to millions of families. This story shows how simple it is to make a difference. If even a 6-year old boy can make his dream come true and do something to make this world a better place, then you can too. You may view Michael’s profile at http://www.whaleofatime.org/michaelnorton.php
Easy UK Musik also a Whale of a Time Artist – view his profile at http://www.whaleofatime.org/easyukmusic.php - created a beautiful ambience with some fantastic dj-ing while we were getting our hands dirty and creative during the Whale of a Time Species Modelling Workshop, view gallery at http://www.whaleofatime.org/workshops.php.
Thank you to all of you who contributed to the Whale of a Time Species Canvas, which created a colourful vibrant visual message to help protect the oceans. The painting is available for auction. All the funds go to educational projects of Whale of a Time. Please send your bids to plankton@whaleofatime.org
Happy Whales, acrylic on canvas, 61 x 92 cm
The painting is available for Whale of a Time Auction. All the funds go to educational projects of Whale of a Time. Please send your bids to plankton@whaleofatime.org
Music and performance, environmental talks and creative inspirations made this event a beautiful experience. Thank you for helping Whale of a Time to raise awareness of endangered species.
We’re currently in process of editing the video of the event, which will be online at www.whaleofatime.org very soon!
Stay tuned with our Whale Mail, which you can receive by subscribing at whalemail@whaleofatime.org
Please help me to keep doing this really exciting work for the youth and community and donate at http://www.justgiving.com/whaleofatime All funds will be used for the educational work of Whale of a Time.
Have a whale of a time!
Friday, 18 July 2008
Whale of a Time @ Inspiral Lounge
Whale of a Time@ Insprial Lounge
Feat. Eco-Artists
Sunday, 27th July
2 pm – 7 pm
11:00 pm - 12:30 am Whaledreamers
11:00 pm - 12:30 am Whaledreamers
250 Camden High Street
London NW1 8QS
Nearest Tube: Camden Town
London NW1 8QS
Nearest Tube: Camden Town
An exhilarating afternoon of creative fun, alternative music, film and art, aimed at raising awareness of environmental issues, fundraising for the Whale of a Time projects and promoting eco-artists.
~~~
Featuring internationally acclaimed specialist
on whale communication
David Rothenberg (New York)
The man who communicates with animals comes to London
exploring an alien intelligence: Whales and their profoundly mysterious sounds.
David produces music by recording whales and their responses to his clarinet.
He's playing at the Royal Opera House in July and we're delighted to present him to you!
www.whaleofatime.org/davidrothenberg.php
~
Showcasing the talents of English cellist
Emily Burridge,
who will be playing music from her forthcoming album
“Bach,Burridge & into the Amazon”,
www.whaleofatime.org/emilyburridge.php
~
With special guest
Michael Norton,
international leading eco-fundraiser and author of
“365 Ways To Change The World”,
www.whaleofatime.org/michaelnorton.php
~
An exclusive viewing of
“Whaledreamers” with Co-Producer David Blake
www.whaleofatime.org/whaledreamers.php
~
Uplifting chill-out music by
Easy UK Music
www.whaleofatime.org/easyukmusic.php
~
Throughout the afternoon you’ll have the chance to get your hands dirty and creative and
make your favourite animal species in clay at the
"Whale of a Time Species Modelling Workshop"
www.whaleofatime.org/projects.php
~
Get inspiralled by multimedia and performances, healthy living and conscious being.
Bring all your skills, voices, instruments, your sparkly selves and your sparkly friends!
www.inspiralled.net
~~~
Download the invitation flyer at www.whaleofatime.org/inspiralled.jpg
Have a whale of a time! :)
Marine Connection Exhibition
Further information can be found here
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- London, United Kingdom
- A vision to live in a sustainable way with our planet and all living beings is the foundation of Whale of a Time. Our passion and commitment about nature, healing and art has resulted in the formation of the Whale of a Time Community where environmentally conscious people have the opportunity to express their care about the planet and to share their inspirations and experiences with each other. Become a Whale of a Time Artist! Join the Whale of a Time Community at www.whaleofatime.org
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