Author archive

I spent the day being inspired.     Read more »

Yesterday, I had the privilege of hearing George Monbiot speak live for the second time in my life.  It is a very rare privilege because two years ago, shortly after the last time I saw him, when he was on a tour promoting his then newly-published book Heat: How to Stop the Planet Burning, he promised himself never to fly again.

He joked that he broke his promise for this trip because it was easier than putting off the pestering Canadians any longer.  But he was also clearly here because he was concerned about Canada’s position on climate change and the direction our government was taking both the country and the world.

I was very glad I went.  First of all, I was glad simply because it’s inspiring to listen to someone who is so informed, so eloquent and so principled and inspiring.  But I was also glad because there’s just so much more that can be said in person than could ever fit into a printed article.  It’s relatively easy to make guarded and thoughtful statements when you can erase what you don’t like.  To my delight, Monbiot in person presents as even more compassionate and sensible than he does on paper.

To me the most interesting point of the event occurred during the questions that followed, when one person asked about Mr. Monbiot’s opposition to biochar.     Read more »

James Hoggan is the Chair of the David Suzuki Foundation and the Canadian chapter of Al Gore’s The Climate Project.  I’m in the middle of reading his book Climate Cover-up: The Crusade to Deny Global Warming.  I frequently find myself referring to the DeSmogBlog.com website he oversees.  I’m looking forward to hearing him in person.

James Hoggan: Climate Cover-up
Tuesday, 2009 November 17, noon – 3 pm
Le Méridien King Edward Hotel, 37 King St East
The Empire Club in the Vanity Fair Ballroom
Tickets are $65, $50 for members – order online     Read more »

Please take a moment to remember those who served selflessly to protect our lives and our democracy.

The Fusion Pottery & Glass Show invited politicians to come do some mudslinging.  I went with Toronto-Centre candidate Ellen Michelson, who took this picture.

Apart from the very specific support for arts and culture activities which the Green Party promotes, arts are integral to a green lifestyle which values local production by low-impact methods.     Read more »