Michigan conference on the future Nov. 11-14: energy, economy & environment

Keynote talks by Nicole Foss (Stoneleigh of The Automatic Earth), Dr. Joe Tainter (author of “The Collapse of Complex Societies), Steve Keen (author of “Debunking Economics” and winner of the Revere Award), Richard Douthwaite (author of “The Ecology of Money”, David Korowicz (director for the Risk/Resilience Network), Chris Bedford (president of the Center for Economic Security), and Aaron Wissner (president of Local Future).

“Peak Shrink” blogs on peak oil for Honda

“Peak Shrink” psychologist Kathy McMahon makes a contribution to Honda’s “Racing Against Time” thought leadership series. Her blog was selected to provide a unique perspective on how we should approach the discussion of oil as a finite energy source.

Getting the word out – Oct 3

– “How to Boil a Frog” – new online interviews; showings in Santa Monica Oct 8-10
– Peak Shrink blogs on peak oil tonight for Honda (NOW ONLINE)
– Dispatches from The Earth Blog: free downloadable mini-book
– Guy McPherson presentiations available online (fossil fuel, bioenergy)
– Online seminars from Imperial College, Longdon: future energy options

A day spent reflecting on Transition and the Big Society

Over 40 people came together in Bristol on Wednesday to explore what the government’s Big Society agenda might mean for Transition initiatives. What follows is my attempt to produce a clear record of the event, the ideas and the debates, as well as the suggestions for where this might go next.

A high-risk fossil fuel boom sweeps across North America

Energy companies are rushing to develop unconventional sources of oil and gas trapped in carbon-rich shales and sands throughout the western United States and Canada. So far, government officials have shown little concern for the environmental consequences of this new fossil fuel development boom.

The velomobile: high-tech bike or low-tech car?

Recumbent bikes with bodywork evoke a curious effect. They look as fast as a racing car or a jet fighter, but of course, they’re not. Nevertheless, thanks to the recumbent position, the minimal weight and the outstanding aerodynamics, pedalling a “velomobile” requires three to four times less energy than pedalling a normal bicycle.