Making the low carbon economy work

Technological and economic initiatives alone will not be enough to bring about the radical change needed to combat runaway global warming. Human relationships and social interactions are critical to initiating and driving innovation. “Lowcarbonworks” is a five year project that has been studying how industry and local authorities have managed low carbon initiatives. A conference; “Insider Voices: Human dimensions of low carbon technology” is being held on 14^th July where 7 examples of successful and unsuccessful initiatives will be presented to highlight practical ways forward.

Soil-less in Scandinavia undermines EU Organic credibility

Reports of soil-less production in organic glasshouses in Scandinavia and the EU’s seemingly tolerant position have raised a number of questions. The new EU Regulation on organic production (834/2007) shows a number of clear references to the fact that plants must be raised in soil and that soil properties and biodiversity should be preserved and enhanced. Definitions of soil all state in more or less detail that it is part of or attached to the surface of the Earth. Once these facts are reviewed the only logical conclusion is that soil-less cannot and should not be allowed in organic systems. This is also important in the maintenance of consumer confidence and harmonised perceptions across the EU. The failure if member states and the EU Commission to stop this practice may damage the credibility of the regulatory process.

€18 Million EU research confirms organic claims QLIF shows benefits but more work needed

What's the dope on the soap? Is the status of a key organic input resolved or not?

Research Assistant – Crops Programme Vacancy at The Organic Research Centre in Berkshire

Senior Researcher – Crops Programme

The Organic Research Centre is advertising for a Senior Researcher at its site in Suffolk - Wakelyns Agroforestry, Suffolk, UK.