Specifically, this blog has general Bokashi Composting information on Bucket Systems and the use of Bokashi One Powder. Blogger is based in Australia/NZ. View videos and read about Aussie/NZ ECO events, general tips on Bokashi Composting and related topics etc.
Friday, 26 December 2008
Bokashi Juice - Dilution Rates
Hi xxxx
Apologies that you have been confused. We sell and distribute Green Frog Bokashi Buckets and Green Frog EM Bokashi Powder. For our instructions, please see the attached recommendations. Some stores (Green Frog Bokashi Resellers) may not to use our instructions, if you have bought our product, can you let me know where from, so we can enforce some consistency?
I would swing more to 200:1 as a general rule for most established plants. (100:1 being a much stronger dose for those that need a shot in the arm, so to speak). Where I would be careful is with sensitive natives, small vegetable seedlings and for spray on direct foliage (I personally don’t include grass as a direct foliage) for which you might like to go down to 300:1. 500:1 is a teaspoon for 5 litres, I just cannot see it as being beneficial at that diluted rate. For Green Frog Bokashi at least.
I’ll revise our instructions with the owner of Green Frog Bokashi in the new year to see what improvements can be made to the accompanying materials. We don’t have any lab tests as such. However, we would like your feedback if you have time to contribute.
Wednesday, 24 December 2008
Merry Christmas
I just wanted to send a brief Christmas Wish, to all those who celebrate Christmas. I have enjoyed blogging and sharing links this year. I hope all readers have a safe and enjoyable Christmas and prosperous 2009.
I received my present early. Yesterday, a healthy baby girl.
Take Care, Cam
Friday, 12 December 2008
Organic Food Markets - Sydney's leading operator of Organic Food & Farmers Markets
Just a bit of a plug for these markets. Great food, clothing, crafts and more. Well worth a stroll, (leave the car at home if you can)
Organic Food Markets - Sydney's leading operator of Organic Food & Farmers Markets
Manly Environment Centre
Last weekend there was a couple of big events on Manly Beach. The Fair Trade event on the Saturday, then Manly Ocean Care Day 2008 on the Sunday.
We had the Green Frog Bokashi stand there on the Sunday. Good crowd, good turnout and heaps of positive feedback for Bokashi. This is the 3rd year in a row we have done this event, and it is a premier event on the Sydney sustainability calendar. Moreso, because of the amount of people that are on the corso all day. Walking, running, watching, eating fish and chips.
People come from all over Sydney to Manly for a Sunday out. Ferry, Car, Sydney Busses. Manly has heaps to offer.
Even in the morning, we had nippers in front of our stand, going there their routines with the trainers. Later in the morning there was this mass of surfers, paddling out. No Surf, so I was surprised. Once they got out about 100 metres, they all formed a ring, and they were just sitting on there boards. I was even more surprised. Someone was talking, but I could not hear what these surfers were listening to. Then 1 big chant (exclamation) at the end, sealed the deal. What was it all about? Anyway, I asked my colleague at work this week, and he said it could have been some surfers paying homage to the Bali incident.
Back to the Bokashi subject. Feel free to email us or make a comment through the blog, if you have any queries, questions, concerns or other things you want to get off your chest.
There will be another blog before Christmas, but for all those who are going away, safe journey and don't forget to drain the excess juice off the "Green Frog Bokashi Bucket" before you leave home.
What would you like to see on this blog? Post some Manly photos soon.
Green Frog Bokashi Resellers - Australia
Very proud to announce another 6 Australia resellers:
- Bundaberg Health Foods
- 51E Woongarra Street
- BUNDABERG QLD 4670
- Phone; 07 4151 5187
- Mrs Flannery’s
- Shop 7 The Easy T Centre
- Scottsdale Drive & Christine Avenue
- ROBINA QLD 4226
- Phone 07 5562 5858
- Good Concepts
- 26 Horan Street
- WEST END QLD 4101
- Phone: 07 3876 0542 www.goodconcepts.com.au
Saturday, 29 November 2008
Newsletter
Green Frog Bokashi - In fitting with the environment and to make our product more recognizable, we have rebranded the EM Bokashi and Bokashi Buckets to carry the name “Green Frog”. Bokashi Composting Australia will still be the Distributor; the product is named “Green Frog”.
Retail Outlets - We now have over 40 retail outlets selling Green Frog Bokashi, we supply to every state in Australia and most major cities. Visit our website to see if there is a store near you, you may be able to save on the postage expense if buy direct from one of these stores.
Organic Farmers Markets (affects Sydney customers) - For the last 3 years we have had a stall at various Organic Food and Farmers Markets, most often the Orange Grove Leichardt and Frenchs Forest venues, and generally every fortnight, as noted on our Markets Page. We will no longer attend these markets regularly; however you can still get your Bokashi Mix and Buckets from both Orange Grove and Frenchs Forrest Markets. Baliz Woof Woof, Sydney’s Organic Pet Food supplier, is stocking the Green Frog Bokashi Mix and Buckets; they won’t hold a large number of buckets so you can pre order. Baliz Woof Woof attends these markets every 2nd and 4th weekend. Dates that they attend are on our Markets Page or you can contact them direct.
Like most stall holders they will be taking their annual holiday over the month of January so remember to pick up your Bokashi before then so as not to run out. Of course you can always order on line or over the telephone or visit one of our retail outlets.
$50.00 Rebate closes 17 December 2008 – (affects Queensland customers) - Queensland customers have been fortunate as their state government has provided a 50% rebate of up to $50 for certain gardening products including the Green Frog Bokashi Bucket. To be eligible for this rebate purchases must be made prior to 17 December 2008.
If you have purchased a Bokashi Bucket since 18 December 2006, and have not already done so don’t forget to apply for this rebate. Please contact us if you want an application form, or contact the Queensland Government Hotline on 1800 243 585 or down load application pack. Tell your friends and family to get in quick to essentially get the Green Frog Bokashi Bucket at half price.
Christmas Trading Hours
Our office will be closed from Saturday 20 December 2008 and reopen on Monday 5 January. However, internet orders will still be dispatched. Get your orders in early, to avoid possible seasonal delays in courier or postal services.
Remember, your bokashi bucket can stay at home fermenting while you travel. Just remember to drain the Bokashi Juice before you leave home, or bury the Bokashi Waste and take the Bokashi Bucket camping!
Customer Service - How is our customer service? If you have feedback, then we want to hear it. We are always striving to improve our service and the way orders are handled.
If you have a question about the Bokashi System, we are very happy to answer any questions send an email or telephone the office on 02 9591 1699, Monday to Friday.
We wish you a safe and happy festive season ahead and look forward to being of service in 2009.
Best Regards
Bokashi Composting Australia Team
Thursday, 20 November 2008
Wednesday, 19 November 2008
Whats new in Bokashi World
More and more stores. More and more enquires about how the system should actually work. Definately, we are keen for people to download the instructions and give it a go. Remember, you need the EM Bokashi Powder for the whole system to work effectively. Instructions . You could do with thew specially designed bucket too?? Australian Resellers
Have a look around the website, there is plenty of info. Great Christmas present and there are plenty of resellers in each state.
Green Frog Bokashi customers will be receiving the annual newsletter within the next days. Any questions, you can comment on here or email Green Frog Bokashi direct from image on top of page.
Waterboy - Episode 3 - www.computersoff.org
Just a light hearted view on water conservation, and other office items.
Saturday, 15 November 2008
Sydney Organic Market Today - Orange Grove, Leichhardt
We are at the East end near the cnr of Perry and Balmain Rd. Come and say hello!
Friday, 7 November 2008
Green Frog Bokashi Resellers - Australia
Want to see the product demonstrated? See events page for upcoming Sydney market dates and expos. Have a safe and enjoyable weekend!
Wednesday, 5 November 2008
Montessori East Sustainable Food Extravaganza
When: Saturday, 8 November 2008, 10am to 4pm
Click Link for more info
Friday, 31 October 2008
Food for the Future Fair Review - October 11th, 2008
There was entertainment on the stage, when we were there, there was the official opening, then a great little production from some of the local children.
There was raffles of produce and a gold coin donation got you a very nice program which talks about what is Food for the Future, local residents and what they are doing, some nice little recipes from www.missionbar.com.au and www.ontheside.com.au , a seasonality chart, article on fruit trees and much more.
If this event is on next year, I think we will definately trundle along again.
Monday, 20 October 2008
Grass Roots Magazine - Article
Great magazine, it's not the first time I have seen the magazine, but it is the first time I have picked one up and bought one. Available at most magazine stores and newsagents. It's full of too many subjects to list. Think permaculture, saving money, water tanks, energy saving, the list goes on and on. Pick up a copy and have a read.
There doesn't appear to be a website, that I can see, but if you have an enquiry or want to subscribe, then here is the details.
Grass Roots
PO Box 117
Seymour
VIC 3661
Ph +61 3 5792 4000
Fax +61 3 5792 4222
Friday, 19 September 2008
Twitter / SarhnGreenerMe: New Bokashi bin makes life ...
Click the links below
Bokashi Composting Australia
SYDNEY ORGANIC FOOD MARKETS
http://www.organicfoodmarkets.com.au/
__________________________________________________________
ORGANIC FOOD AND FARMERS MARKETS
- Orange Grove Public School
Corner of Perry Street and Balmain Road, Leichhardt Saturday, 20th September 2008 8:00am to 1:00pm
Saturday, 4th October 2008 8:00am to 1:00pm
Tuesday, 16 September 2008
Green Frog Bokashi Resellers - Australia
Manic Organic
Shop 1, 409 Princes Highway
WOONONA NSW 2517
Phone: 02 4285 9875
Hampton Gardens
2274 Moggill Road
KENMORE QLD 4069
Phone: 07 3378 5553
Mountain Creek Wholefoods
14 Barker Street
Griffith ACT 2603
Phone: 02 6295 1474
Mrs Flannery’s
2184 Gold Coast Highway
MIAMI QLD 4220
Phone: 07 5526 1991
Wednesday, 3 September 2008
Festival of Flowers
2008 Strathfield Spring Fair - 28 September 2008 10am - 6pm
Spring Fair To Promote Greener Living don’t miss visiting Eco Stalls at the Fair designed to help community members connect with environmentally friendly products and services to help reduce their carbon footprint. Council will also be giving away free native trees. The Strathfield Spring Fair is proud to be a Carbon Offset Event.
The day kicks off at 10:00am with free entertainment, rides and activities for the whole family to enjoy. There will be lots of stalls including food, fashion, gifts, toys, environlentally friendly products and lots more.
Channel Nine's most loveable Bear, Humphrey B Bear will be making a guest appearance. Face Painting.
A free shuttle bus will depart every 30 minutes from Flemington, Homebush and Strathfield stations. A full timetble is available on the council website. See link below, or contact the council on +61 2 9748 9999
2008 Strathfield Spring Fair - 28 September 2008 10am - 6pm
Friday, 15 August 2008
City of Sydney - 2008 - Live Green
Live Green - Ideas to green your life
"More than 10,000 people attended the first Live Green event in 2007 and this year’s program promises to offer more innovative and simple practical actions you can take to reduce your environmental impact and help make our Sustainable Sydney 2030 vision a reality." Lord Mayor Clover Moore MP
Program highlights include:
Kitchen marquee >
Hosted by Joanna Savill, top local chefs including Live Green Ambassador Kylie Kwong will be cooking up a storm. There’s also a panel discussion on Sustainable Seafood convened by John Newton.
Panel discussions >
Industry leaders debating green marketing, ”green washing”, climate change investment and green careers with audience Q&A, hosted by Nell Schofield.
Workshops >
Practical information and a range of hints and tips to help make your life more environmentally friendly, hosted by Scott McGregor.
City of Sydney Green House >
Take a walk through a demonstration house to find out how your can transform your home into a more environmentally friendly space.
Children’s Area >
Performers, make your own eco-art and entertaining workshops.
Transport >
Free valet bike parking, free bike safety checks and workshops for new and experienced cyclists.
Green Bar >
Sample the best organic wines, naturally brewed beer and fruit juice.
Organic and locally grown food & produce >
You won’t go hungry with delicious food on offer as well as fresh produce to take home.
Shop till you drop >
Fashion, beauty, homewares and lifestyle stalls showcasing the latest in sustainable design and production.
Zero Waste >
Get inspired to start a worm farm at home or make your own low impact cleaning products.
Music and more >
Jazz, funk and soul hosted by Angela Catterns.
See the Stalls and Program sections above for full event details.
Carbon Neutral City
The City of Sydney will soon be carbon neutral across its entire area of operations.This will be achieved through energy efficiency measures, the use of fully accredited Green Power and ultimately greenhouse gas offsets.
Auditing Live Green
Carbon Neutral
Live Green will have a zero emissions balance - part of the City's commitment to be carbon neutral. To achieve this for the event, the City of Sydney is contracting a carbon audit to understand Live Green’s carbon footprint and impact and then remove this impact through the use of Green Power and the purchase of carbon credits. The Carbon Reduction Institute is conducting the audit which will cover all emissions sources that the City can reasonably control through policy implementation, technology choice or direct authority.
This includes the emissions impact resulting from:
- Fuels combusted the during event
- Consumption of electricity
- 3rd party contractor services consumed by City of Sydney in the delivery of the event
- Materials consumed by City of Sydney in the delivery of the event
- Visitor, Exhibitor and Vendor travel
- Waste created during the event and by the City of Sydney in the lead up to the event
The audit will exclude the emissions impact of products and services sold by vendors at the event and the emissions from the used proportion of assets consumed by the event. These exclusions are justified on the premise that, whilst the City of Sydney can and will be encouraging environmentally friendly suppliers to partake in the event, they are unable to control the value chains of these suppliers. Hence, neither the emissions liability for products and services sold by vendors at Live Green 2008, nor the used proportion of assets consumed by the event are deemed to be the responsibility of the City of Sydney.
The Carbon Reduction Institute audit complies with the standardss outlined by the Greenhouse Gas Protocol.
GreenPower
The City is using 100% accredited GreenPower and other accredited offsets for this event. GreenPower is independently verified to come from renewable energy sources including wind, solar and hydro. These energy sources do not produce greenhouse gas emissions and effectively reduce emissions by reducing the need to burn fossil fuels such as coal to produce energy.
Solar Power
figureight is a local production crew that is dedicated to the promotion of a sustainable events industry. They use renewable energy alternatives and energy efficient practices to achieve these aims and at Live Green you will be able to see this in action. Their solar battery bank and panels will be on display powering the children’s entertainment area and the seminars with 100% renewable energy. Come and meet one of the figureight crew if you'd like to learn more about sustainable event practices.
Waste
As part of the City’s commitment towards Zero Waste the City of Sydney is working with Visy [link to the sponsor page] to ensure that Live Green recovers as many resources as possible and saves waste from going to landfill.
Recycling stations provided by Visy will be in place throughout Live Green, making it easy for everyone to recycle.
The recyclable materials collected will be delivered to a Visy Recycling Material Recovery Facility in Sydney where they will be sorted and processed, and later converted into valuable, new packaging products.
Biodegradable waste, such as certain foods and biodegradable containers can be disposed of in the giant worm farm within the dedicated waste area. Recycling champions located next to the bins are able to provide directions
Finally, garbage bins will be provided at the recycling stations for items that cannot be composted or recycled.
Waterless and chemical free toilets
On Site Rentals, a company who pride themselves on their green approach to operations will be providing the temporary toilet facilities at Live Green.
Straight drop toilets that don’t require any flushing will be used onsite, eliminating the use of water. A foaming alcohol based sanitiser for hands will also remove the need for water and paper towels for hand washing, further reducing overall water consumption at the event. In addition only recycled toilet paper and natural cleaners will be used.
Live Green will also be:
- Using a blend of waste bio-diesel generators
- Minimising distribution of paper
- Reducing consumption of plastic bottles by offering water station for patrons to refill their water containers.
- Using recyclable, recycled and biodegradable materials for signage & scenic where possible
Ku-ring-gai Council - Festival of Wildflowers
Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden
Festival of Wildflowers
Come and celebrate the beginning of spring at the annual Festival of Wildflowers - a fun event for all the family!
Date: Sat 30 and Sun 31 August 2008
Time: 9am - 4pm
Venue: Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, 420 Mona Vale Rd, St Ives
Cost: FREE
Theme: The theme for 2008 is - How Does Your Garden Grow?
There will be stalls, displays, native plant sales, guided bushwalks and activities for the kids, entertainment and refreshments
See festival program highlights: Festival of Wildflowers Program Highlights
This year's Festival of Wildflowers will focus on organic veggie gardening and the use of native plants in gardens. There will be a range of displays including native plant sales and flower arrangements, composting, the St George Taronga Zoo Mobile, bush foods and books.
The Festival will also feature entertainment by LEAPFISH environmental performer and Songs of the Garden music by Harry Hughes.
Guided bushwalks and organic garden tours and a kids bush craft corner will be running throughout the day. Talks will be held inside the Education Centre as well as a presentation by Taronga Zoo. There will also be dip netting at the pond for the adventurous with the Frog and Tadpole Society.
A sausage sizzle and Devonshire Tea will be on offer from Turramurra Rotary and there will be coffee and more food provided by Espresso Mobile and Mayan Cafe on Danks.
Come along, rain or shine, and get back to nature at the Festival of Wildflowers
For further information, contact the Bushland Education Coordinator on 9424 0353
Bokashi Composting Australia
ORGANIC FOOD AND FARMERS MARKETS
- Orange Grove Public School
Saturday, 23rd August 2008
8:00am to 1:00pmSaturday, 6th September 2008 8:00am to 1:00pm
Saturday, 20th September 2008 8:00am to 1:00pm
- Frenchs Forest Market
- The Parkway Hotel, Frenchs Forest Road East, Frenchs Forrest.
Bokashi Composting Australia will no longer have a regular stall at Frenchs Forrest Market; however you will still be able to buy your Bokashi Mix there. "Baliz Woof Woof" suppliers of wonderful Organic Pet Food will stock Bokashi Mix. Baliz Woof Woof regularly attends Frenchs Forrest Market every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the Month.
Sunday, 24 August 2008
Sunday, 14 September 2008
Sunday, 28 September 2008
If you have a Dog or Cat check out their website, I cannot recommend their food enough it has extended and enhanced the life of my now 15 year old Bichon Frisée.
Wednesday, 6 August 2008
How to get the most out of this Blog
After many weeks of attempting to merge or resolve the past and present "Bokashi Composting in Australia" blogs; We now have 2 x blogs:
Older Archive
http://billjackjane.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default
New/Current
http://billjackjane.blogspot.com/feeds/posts/default?orderby=updated
Why not add both into your RSS Reader, rename the archive.
Thanks!!
Friday, 25 July 2008
Australia's Leading ORGANIC EXPO Featuring "The Green Show"
I am looking forward to attending the next 2 days and mingling with producers and end customers alike, it is $AUD15.00 for adults, $16.00 for carbon offset customers.
It's in hall one (1) of Sydney Convention and Entertainment Centre, so plan to park at the south end. There is organic coffee, soft drinks, sandwiches and a hot bain maree with the likes of Butter chicken etc, for those that are hungry (north west corner of Hall 1). Alternatively, you have Darling Harbour, or Chinatown that are very close.
Have a great weekend, get green, and visit the Bokashi Composting Australia stand (217)
Sunday, 20 July 2008
Green Biz Cafe - Glebe Sydney
Great format, lovely food from The Fair Trade Cafe. If you are thinking about starting a Green BIZ, then come along, if you have a Green Biz, then come along or if you want to hear and discuss what others are doing.
The first night, we had speakers from Eco Limo and Eco Living Centre in gladesville. It was interesting to see what makes there business's tick, and what is front centre in there learnings and goals. There was various other people attending, I won't mention their names without permission, only to say we support this http://www.greenbizcafe.com.au/ and we plan to be there at the next meeting in 2 weeks. Drag it into your calendar.
I have included a flyer below, so you can contact http://www.greenbizcafe.com.au/ direct for further details.
Can I just add, onto this thread, there is an Organic Expo in Sydney, next weekend. If you cannot make it yourself, may I ask that you tell your AUS/East Coast Friends, so as they may choose to come along. http://www.organicexpo.com.au/visitors/about_the_expo
Any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to ask, via comments.
Sunday, 22 June 2008
The Glebe | Glebe Local News
GREENTHUMB and local resident Maree O'Malley has helped to release an innovative composting bucket to Australia and she hopes it leads to more recycling.
Bokashi buckets are air-tight and use a combination of bran and rice husks infused with microbes to break down kitchen waste into rich compost and liquid.
Ms O'Malley said any effort to reduce our environmental footprint was worthwhile: "A large percentage of what goes into landfill is domestic organic waste, which is a pretty easy thing to recycle."
In fact, organic material buried in landfills causes over three per cent of Australia's greenhouse gas emissions.
Ms O'Malley said the reaction from residents, local councils and businesses has been very positive in today's eco-friendly climate.
"In the last couple of years, we've become a lot more aware of the importance of looking after our environment," Ms O'Malley said. "It's become quite a topic at the moment, it's quite in vogue to be green."
The passionate environmentalist has been to local events to spread the word, including regular appearances at the Orange Grove Public School markets.
Ms O'Malley has been working on the project for the past three years and hopes to expand within the eco industry: "Most people know what a worm farm is or what a compost bin is (but) most wouldn't know what a Bokashi bucket was."
The Marrickville resident has 22 outlets across Australia, including in Glebe, Rozelle and Newtown.
Details: http://www.bokashi.com.au/.
Monday, 16 June 2008
Project Lyttelton
A great use at a commercial level of the Bokashi Composting System.
ZERO YOUR CARBON
QLD Home and Garden WaterWise Rebate Schemes
Perfect for purchase of The Green Frog Bokashi Bucket http://www.bokashi.com.au/ . Easy Kitchen Composting.
Application Pack (download here)http://www.nrw.qld.gov.au/water/saverscheme/pdf/rebate_information_pack.pdf
Map & brochure - community gardens in Leichhardt local government area
Correction to brochure:
1. The contact phone number and email for the Australian City Farms & Community Gardens Network notified on the brochure is out of date. The Network can be contacted through this website.
2. The UNSW Permaculture Community Garden noted on the brochure no longer exists.
Format: pdf
http://www.communitygarden.org.au/index.html
Map: City of Sydney Community Garden Map
Format: pdf
Saturday, 7 June 2008
The Wilderness Society - World Environment Day 2004 - Sydney
This is an archive from 2004, please do not travel to this location today, Sat 7th June , 2008. A Global
Treasure
A National
Responsibility
Take Action for
World Environment Day
see http://www.wilderness.org.au/
Free Concert Sydney
Sat 5 June @ 3:30pm,
Sydney Town Hall
With Jimmy Barnes, Diesel and Family,
award-winning author Richard Flanagan,
Vince Jones,
Triple J's Adam Spencer,
a classical ensemble of voice, trumpet and organ,
the presentation of the Environment Award
for Children's Literature, and more.
We need your help with postering
and handing out pamphlets this week
and we need help on the day
contact Aymon on 02 9282 9553 or
sydney@wilderness.org.au
The Wilderness Society - World Environment Day 2004 - Sydney
Dirt: Bokashi
Archive Blog address from one of the leading Gardening Blogs in the world (Dirt by Amy) . Even though Amy blogs from a different address now, it's good to go back and see whats been said already (comments, specifically). Bokashi is not new.
Thursday, 5 June 2008
Dunedin Today - Easy Tips for Reducing Waste
With most of our recyclables shipped first to Christchurch and then overseas, there are concerns that the carbon emissions as well as the man-hours, and various other expenses create as much of a problem as the one we are trying to fix. It is difficult to know where to draw the line as we certainly don’t want to discourage recycling and the active efforts being made to reduce waste going to landfill, but are there other simple ways to make a difference? There most certainly are. Some options include:
* Refusing plastic shopping bags – most stores have ‘sold’ tape that can go on your purchase, negating the need for a plastic or even paper bag or alternatively use a basket or a re-usable bag such as those sold at many supermarkets.
* Composting all your organic waste – this means fruit and vegetable scraps but also newspaper, junk mail, white cat litter and tea and coffee remains. (NO dairy or meat products!) Approximately 25-35% of your household rubbish can be composted.
* A Bokashi is amazing for clearing up ALL your food scraps. It is a two-bucket system that will fit in your kitchen cupboard. The bucket has a tight fitting lid, which contains the pickle smell and allows the effective micro-organisms to work their magic, rapidly decomposing the scraps. They can then be buried directly in your garden, allowing the fertilisation to begin immediately, (although you have to be careful around tender root systems). For more information about effective micro-organisms, go to A Guide to Effective Microorganisms, or simply type ‘effective micro-organisms’ into a search engine. For more information about Bokashi go to Bokashi NZ
* Choose products that have as little packaging material as possible – this can be as easy as choosing to buy individual packets rather than a multi pack (for example two minute noodles) – often cheaper as well. This simply means that you do not have another wrapping around individually wrapped items. Simple - they generally come out of the main wrapper once you have used one or two of them anyway, so why take home the extra in the first place?
* Cultivate a worm farm. If you have children this can be fun and educational as well as environmentally useful. They can be homemade or you can purchase one from most hardware stores, garden centres and even some toy stores. For a guide to worm farming you can contact Jenny Neilson, the DCC’s Education Promotion Officer on 474 3634 or Jenny Neilson
* Avoid buying tinned, pre-packaged and frozen products when similar fresh products are available in season. Packaged items by their very nature create more waste, whereas fresh products generally have little or no packaging, as well as being more nutritious and tastier!
* Consider using the Waste Exchange programme – this is a scheme that enables businesses and industry to donate waste items to community groups – thus allowing you to source usually free items of all sorts from furniture to paper. For more information, contact Carmen Knowler, the DCC’s Waste Exchange Co-Ordinator on 474 3461 or Carmen Knowler.
* Keep an eye out for the Waste-Me-Not website up soon.
In New Zealand, there is little firm pressure on manufacturers to produce environmentally-aware packaging. The Voluntary Packaging Accord signed in August 2004 for a five-year period, (see Voluntary Packaging Accord 2004-2009, is an agreement between the Ministry for the Environment, the Packaging Council of New Zealand (PACNZ), Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ), and Recycling Operators of New Zealand (RONZ), to increase both manufacturer responsibility and consumer awareness. The Accord does not, however, set out any penalties or consequences for those manufacturers who do not strive towards this goal, leading for example to production of a plastic bottle with an aluminium lid, which cannot be recycled as the two materials are incompatible. It also means that there is no incentive for a company to make environmentally sound packaging that may more expensive to produce.
Other useful websites include: Reduce your RubbishSustainable LivingSnippETS – Energy and Environmental News Clippings
Wednesday, 4 June 2008
If you really wish to make your own
Most of the commercially available EM Bokashi powder in Australia, you can be happy with, and it works. If it doesn't work, it could be for a variety of reasons. (secondary fermentation i the most common problem) There just isn't enough tests at the moment to be able to guarentee shelf life. Ideally, if the EM Bokashi powder has been prepared properly, then it can be fine (kept dry) for storage for 3-12 months. (keep airtight).
You can make your own, or buy from www.bokashi.com.au . Bokashi Composting Australia has been in business for a few years now, so if you are time poor, then it makes sense to buy from their reseller group.
You Tube PODChef guy Neal Foli shows you here how to look at making your own. as a blogger, I cannot say this is the total and guarenteed recipe for EM Bokashi, just a guide to what you may be able to achieve. Neils other videos are unbeatable, I suggest you subscribe and learn, and enjoy.....
Tuesday, 3 June 2008
Sunday, 1 June 2008
Wednesday, 28 May 2008
Manly Sustainability Fair
When: Saturday 31st May & Sunday 1st June 2008
Where: Manly Ocean Beach Promenade, North Steyne, next to the Food and Wine Festival.
What: Helping you to make a difference to the way you live with sustainable lifestyle, building, gardening and shopping exhibits, free advice, entertainment, giveaways & more...
The theme of this year’s Sustainability Fair is solar and water - important opportunities in our fight against climate change.
Free tours of a local sustainable house, 11:30am, Saturday and Sunday. Meet at the Sustainability Fair Information stall within the Food & Wine Festival.
Free screenings of A Crude Awakening, 4pm, Saturday and Sunday at Manly Cinemas. Collect your free tickets from Manly Council customer service, Town Hall or on the day from the Sustainability Fair Information Stall within the Food & Wine Festival.
Exhibitors include:
Australian & New Zealand Solar Energy Society (ANZSES)
Bokashi Composting Australia
Department of Environment & Climate Change (NABERS & residential rebates)
Eco at Home (sustainable homewares)
Ecodownunder (sustainable manchester)
Ecological Homes (solar power and solar hot water)
ENJO (sustainable cleaning)
Fairlight AIR and Seeley International (energy saving home solutions)
Generation Wonder (organic, eco, and fair trade gifts for children)
GoGet Carshare (car sharing)
GO-OZ-RAINMASTER (rainwater tanks and solar hot water systems)
Low Energy Living NSW (energy efficient building)
Manly Council Bushcare
Manly Council Community & Environmental Partnerships & Natural Resouces
Manly Environment Centre
Manly Food Co-operative
One Water Naturally (water tanks)
Permaculture North Inc. (permaculture and backyard self-reliance)
Rentachook
Scooter Central (scooters and electric bikes)
Solar Switch (photovaltaics/solar power)
Sydney Water
Australia Bokashi Resellers
Wednesday, 7 May 2008
International Composting Aware Week
Friday, 2 May 2008
Sydney Organic Expo 2008
http://www.organicexpo.com.au/visitors/exhibitors/B
The Organic Expo will provide a great opportunity to source news, see what innovative products are being launched as well as checking out material for feature stories.
200+ exhibitors will be showcasing their existing range of eco-ganic* products and services at the 2008 show and some will be launching new products and services so you can see what’s hitting the organic market. (*collective term for certified organic and environmentally friendly products and services)
A powerful line-up of speakers and celebrities will be present over the period of the show. Check out the Demonstration Stage Program via the What's ON page (click link to the left)
Friday 25th July 2008 - 10.00am – 6.00pm (Trade Only)
Saturday 26th July 2008 - 10.00am – 6.00pm
Sunday 27th July 2008 - 10.00am – 5.00pm
Hall 1, Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour, Sydney
Friday, 25 April 2008
News Blog @ Bokashi Composting Australia
If You have any questions following the David and Kim Show this week, just email us on info@bokashi.com.au
Friday, 4 April 2008
Randwick Eco Living Fair '08 - Harmony Day
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RANDWICK ECOLIVING FAIR '08/Harmony Day festival
...Have fun ...learn ...be creative ...improve your wellbeing
...find out about sustainable living
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WHEN: 10:30am to 3:30pm, Sunday 6 April 2008
WHERE: Randwick Community Centre, 27 Munda Street, Randwick
(off Hendy Avenue, Randwick) - see website below for map (or flyer link at top of post).
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Throughout the day there will be live music, creative art, kid's corner and tasty organic food to enjoy, why not bring your family and friends and make a day of it?
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INFORMATION: www.randwick.nsw.gov.au/ecoliving for detailed program, maps, exhibitors list and FREE shuttle bus pick-up points.
Enquiries: 1300 722 542
For information on public buses to the event or to one of our FREE shuttle bus stops: go to www.131500.info for their timetable and route.
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COME EARLY...
...and join our FREE yoga class at 10:30 and watch the FREE Australian Wildlife Show
...shy not have morning tea at one of our yummy food stalls - bring your own mug for reuse to avoid waste.
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Join us for the HARMONY DAY festival...
This years Ecoliving Fair will incorporate... Harmony Day festival ...a celebration of our rich cultural diversity across Australia ...embracing a fair go and respect for all people ...no matter your background or religion.
For the programme got to:
http://www.randwick.nsw.gov.au/default.php?id=1592
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Join our FREE SUSTAINABILITY WORKSHOPS on...
- How To Install A Rainwater Tank, John Caley
- The Permaculture Home, Terry Bail
- The Permaculture Garden, Steve Batley
- Get On Your Bike - The Two-Wheel Solution, Bike East
- No-waste Shopping Tracey Albon
- Microfibre Cleaning - How Does It Work? Julie Nobbs
- Food Fairness & Healthy Ageing, Mark Ludbrooke & Sally James
- The Presence of the Past-Our Randwick Heritage, Lorraine Simpson
- Local Aboriginal History, Barry Duncan
- Creating a Nurturing Environment, Suzanne Lewarne
- Backyard Poultry, Dave Ingham
- Going Local,Louise Kolff, & Lynn Miller
- Create your Native Haven, Nick Renneberg
- Composting with Bokashi, Maree O'Malle
- Young Children in the Garden, Julie Gaul
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There will be a range of EXHIBITORS...
... focusing on energy and water saving products, sustainable healthy products and information on a range of community groups. RECYCLE your old mobile phone at the MobileMuster station
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Join our CONVERSATIONS...
with DESIGNERS from the University of NSW ...developing your sustainable home and garden...
Our designers from UNSW...
- Graham Fletcher, landscape architect
- Kirsty Mate, interior architect
- Alistair Spoul, solar electricity specialist.
- Facilitator: Russ Grayson, journalist
...and leading SUSTAINABILITY THINKERS...Today's big challenges need small, local solutions.
Our THINKERS...
- Helena Norberg Hodge, international speaker and author, discusses local food systems, local economies and relocalisation
- Tim Winton, educator, discusses how we can prepare for peak oil, climate change and the transition to a low carbon future
- Chris Reidy, UTS Institute for Sustainable Futures, will discuss policies and actions to tackle global warming
- Peter Maganov, sustainability manager, Randwick City Council, will introduce us to local government initiatives on global warming.
- Facilitator: Greg Jenkins.
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Free fun activities for KIDS in the kids corner
- circus acts
- wildlife shows
- frog mobile
- recycled craft activities.
There will also be:
- schools environmental EXPO
- a seed mosaic being created in the main hall
- native plant giveaway
- mountains of environmental prizes and giveaways.
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This is a Randwick City Council SUSTAINING OUR CITY event for Earth Day 2008.
Harmony Day festival is a FREE event supported by Randwick City Council’s Multicultural Advisory Committee.
Brochure
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The Point Preschool Environmental Expo 2008
Celebrating the International Year of the Frog
Saturday 5th April 2008 10am – 3pm 87R Greenpoint Road Oyster Bay
Saturday 5th April 10am – 3pm
The Point Preschool proud winners of 2007 Sutherland Shire Small Business Awards
– Most Outstanding Child Care Service and 2006 ECEEN Sprouts Award –
Sustainable Projects Recognising Outstanding Practice Award.
HIGHLIGHTS
Welcome to Country, Professor Deo Prasad (UNSW international expert on
sustainable buildings and cities) Meet the animals from Taronga Zoo, Cronulla
Cruises, Storytelling by Peter Morgan, NSW ECEEN (Early Childhood Environmental
Education Network), Sutherland Shire Council GreenWeb and Bushcare, WIRES,
Meet Mary Jacobs and Les Bursill authors of the newly released book “Dharawal”,
The Book Garden, Bokashi Composting Buckets, Serendib Fair Trade, Artist Paul
Jensen, Oyster Bay Scouts, RTA Kids and Traffic, Oyster Bay Observatory,
SOLARSWITCH, Engadine Plumbing Rain Water Storage, Tess Michaels Natural
Playscapes, Sir Joseph Banks Garden, Kids Safe Playground Advisory Unit,
Retroflush (as seen on Better Homes and Gardens), Miessence Organic Skincare,
SCRAP Ltd, Eco OOSH ideas, quality preloved toys, clothes and books and very
yummy food from Down to Earth Organic Dining.
Fantastic raffles to win and resources to buy.
FEATURING
orkshops for children and adults on frog ponds, vegetable gardens, biopot making
demonstrations, green cleaning, yoga for children, Tai Chi with Deryth Herbert,
storytelling, safe pedestrian journeys with children, recycled craft workshop,
children and nature, bush tucker gardens, worm farms and award winning
environmental initiatives of The Point Preschool.
See www.thepointpreschool.com.au for timetable of workshops
Bring along a plastic milk/juice container with lid
and join in an exciting thought provoking, community activity.
Bring along your old mobile phone for recycling.
Free eco show bags for the first 25 early childhood services
Bookings essential for early childhood services and schools $
Tafe and Uni students and families.
Thank you to our wonderful sponsors and partners:
Sutherland Shire Council, Planet Press, Australian Wild Escapes, Cronulla Cruises,
Bokashi Buckets, Solarswitch, NSW Seed Savers Network, Sydney Wild Flower
Nursery, The Powerhouse Museum, Jane Davenport, Ecodepot, Network of
Community Activities, Bunnings Caringbah, Sea Kayaks Bundeena, Royal National
Park Environmental Education Centre, Steve Parish
Friday, 4 January 2008
2008 Year of The Bokashi
We hope you all had a safe and enjoyable festive season. New Sydney workshop dates have been posted on the following page http://www.bokashi.com.au/bokashi-workshops.htm
Now, I'll leave you with something to watch; it's not a Bokashi Bucket, but you will get the idea.