Green Futures Features

Exclusive interview with the man behind Curitiba's master plan

Anna Simpson and Ben Tuxworth 10 March 2010, Americas, Urban

Jaime Lerner tells Green Futures how to redesign a city, what Brazil’s major metropolises have yet to learn, and why urban acupuncture is the way forward.

Downloading the sun in Suruacá

Roger East 8 March 2010, Americas, Community energy, Solar energy/PV

Internet access is improving education and healthcare in remote parts of Brazil, thanks to solar PV.

Hydro brings independence to remote farmers

Martin Wright and Roger East 5 March 2010, Americas, Community energy, Hydro electric

In the deep south of Brazil, small-scale hydro plants are bringing robust, reliable supplies of power to farming communities.

Clean transport calls for sustainable sugar

Anna Simpson 3 March 2010, Americas, Biofuels, Farming/Horticulture

There isn’t a traditional cane cutter or a burning field in sight as Anna Simpson explores the shift to a sustainable sugar cane industry in Brazil.

Will Brazil's oil bonanza drown out renewables?

Tom Phillips 2 March 2010, Americas, Fossil fuels

In 2007, Brazil struck gold with the discovery of vast oil reserves. Two years on, Tom Philips explores the impact on the country's much vaunted 'renewables revolution'.

Rainforest revival: has Brazil turned the tide on deforestation?

Andrew Downie and Martin Wright 26 February 2010, Americas, Forests

After years of seemingly unstoppable destruction, Brazil appears to be winning some ground on the Amazon frontier. Is this just a recession-induced calm before the storm, asks Martin Wright – or the start of a rainforest revival?

Can Brazil lead on climate commitments?

Jonathon Porritt 22 February 2010, Americas, Biofuels, Forests

If Brazil can both exploit, and protect, its vast resources, it could be a powerhouse of the 21st century. Conor Foley and Jonathon Porritt sift the possibilities.

The perils of predicting the future

Martin Wright and Trish Lorenz 21 January 2010, Culture, Lifestyles, Nuclear power, Visions & futures

“Prediction is very difficult, especially about the future.” Danish physicist Niels Bohr’s words are a wise warning to the reckless forecaster. Trish Lorenz and Martin Wright uncover some instructive howlers.

Futurists: shaping business for tomorrow

James Goodman 18 January 2010, Inspiration, Visions & futures

How we think about the future will dramatically affect our chances of living in a sustainable world, says James Goodman. Which is why futurists are starting to reshape the ways in which leading companies and organisations think and act today.

Weak signals: how to track a changing horizon

Anna Simpson and Hugh Knowles 15 January 2010, Behaviour change, Innovation, Inspiration, Visions & futures

What's a weak signal? And what do we do with it? Hugh Knowles tunes into the signals of the future that are indeed already with us - but have yet to be recognised as such, let alone adopted by mainstream society.

Can aviation go green?

Roger East 7 January 2010, Aviation, Carbon offset/neutrality

With the spotlight hovering over airline emissions, Roger East explores the possibilities of zero-emission aviation.

Disruptive innovation can lead to new ways of thinking

Anna Simpson 4 January 2010, Business services, Innovation, Retail

Forum for the Future’s disruptive innovation cards have helped devise new business models and have even enabled R&D departments to think more about the design and sustainability of their products. Anna Simpson reveals the simple strategies that can give you the trick, whatever your hand.

Wikis, webs and modern markets

Anna Simpson 4 January 2010, Agriculture & Food, Consumption, Eco-products & services, Web directories & blogs

It’s mardi: market day in the small coastal town of Ganges in southern France, and I find myself at my regular independent fish stall. Yet I have no idea how or when the cod was caught, who caught it, and how it travelled to my town. Technology can help, but is only part of the answer. But if producers, suppliers and buyers work together to build long-term relationships, along with the use of technology, it will result in changes that will benefit everyone.

Innovative design can shape the future

Trish Lorenz 4 January 2010, Eco-products & services, Innovation

It’s up to today’s young designers to sketch out our future lifestyles. Trish Lorenz looks forward to a world where sleek, stylish and energy saving are synonyms.

The power of the people is the motive for green change

Alex Johnson 17 December 2009, Behaviour change, Lifestyles, Local government

Twelve bored strangers sit in an airless room, their hearts racing on cheap coffee, and their only motivation a second chocolate Hobnob and the promise of a small cheque. It’s hardly the stuff of dreams. But for too long it’s been the source of inspiration, if such it can be called, for public sector research into sustainability challenges.

Embracing traditional wisdom can help South Africa's progress

Max du Preez 16 December 2009, Africa, Culture, Religion/spirituality

Southern Africa is a storehouse of indigenous wisdom on the link between humans and nature. Wisdom that we would do well to heed today, says Max du Preez.

South Africa must shoot for green goals at 2010 World Cup

Sheryl Ozinsky 14 December 2009, Africa, Planning, Socially responsible investment, Sport

The 2010 World Cup is kicking off some positive initiatives, says Sheryl Ozinsky, but the host nation could be wide of the goal unless it greens a lot more than the pitch.

Constructing communities will take more than new housing

Mark Swilling 11 December 2009, Africa, Housing

Fifteen years after the dawn of democracy in South Africa, says Mark Swilling, urban apartheid is getting worse, not better.

South Africa renews rail in push to reduce congestion on highways

Gail Jennings 10 December 2009, Africa, Commuting, Mass transit/Public transport, Railways

While the city highways are clogged with single passenger cars and 4x4s, the average South African must walk, stand or sit on someone’s lap for hours to get to work. But change is coming down the line – literally, says Gail Jenning.

South Africa's companies strive for a sustainable future

David Le Page and Monica Graaff 9 December 2009, Africa, Carbon reduction, Corporate responsibility

Are South Africa’s companies up to the sustainability challenge? Monica Graaff and David Le Page go on the trail of the green corporate leaders.

Water crisis looms for semi-arid South Africa

Monica Graaff 8 December 2009, Africa, Water

As a water crisis looms, Monica Graaff taps into the quest for cutting edge ways to clean up pollution, cut waste and boost supplies.

South Africa's farmers respond to climate change threat

Leonie Joubert and Monica Graaff 8 December 2009, Africa, Farming/Horticulture

Can South Africa climate-proof its agriculture – and improve the lives of its rural poor as it does so? Monica Graaff and Leonie Joubert scan the veldt for signs of change.

Long road to renewables for coal-rich South Africa

Monica Graaff and Saliem Fakir 4 December 2009, Africa, Carbon reduction, Fossil fuels

A coal-rich developing nation, South Africa has a long haul ahead to a low carbon future. Saliem Fakir and Monica Graaff look at the hopes – and hurdles – on the energy front.

South Africa's political power shift

Richard Calland 3 December 2009, Africa, International policies & agreements, Politics

Is South Africa’s new President, Jacob Zuma, ‘too red to be green’ – or too red not to be? Richard Calland looks for the policies beyond that ‘populist’ tag.

South Africa is at the crossroads of sustainability

Monica Graaff and Peter Willis 1 December 2009, Africa, Consumption

South Africa today faces a critical choice, argue Peter Willis and Monica Graaff. Either it attempts to put ‘business as normal’ back together again – or it strikes out for a truly sustainable future.

How Palestinian olive oil broke down a barrier

Anna Simpson 16 November 2009, Agriculture & Food, Fair Trade, Farming/Horticulture, People, Social enterprise

Occupied territories aren't the best backdrop for business...or are they? Heather Masoud tells Anna Simpson about the world's first fair trade olive oil.

The cleantech revolution sweeps through America

Peter Madden and Polly Ghazi 2 November 2009, Americas, International policies & agreements, Procurement, Solar energy/PV, Wind power

A cleantech revolution is sweeping America - but will government have the courage to put the wind in its sails? Polly Ghazi investigates.

Can finance save forests?

Martin Wright 26 October 2009, Forests

If rainforests are so valuable, why can't we make them pay?
Martin Wright explores the profits and the pitfalls deep in the jungle.

What will tourism be like in the twenties?

Anna Simpson 10 October 2009, Holidays, Transport & travel, Travel plans

Tourism as we know it could be about to experience its greatest shift since Benidorm was a sleepy fishing village. And it won’t be so much changes in tourist appetites that drive it, but external pressures. There’s oil, for one thing, with prices inexorably rising. Then there’s the stop-start progress towards a functioning carbon market; looming conflicts over energy, water, crop land... So, what will holidays look like in the 2020s? Anna Simpson packs her bags.

More than mere beauty: Cumbria sees surge in renewables

Rebecca Willis 17 August 2009, Employment, Places/demonstration centres, Regeneration

England’s Lake District could become a hub of green industry, reports
Rebecca Willis.

Spark plug – can EVs save the climate and the motor industry?

April Streeter 3 August 2009, Cars, Innovation

Electric vehicles (EVs) are the flavour of the year. A hundred years after the petrol revolution swamped the first fragile wave of electric cars, they're back. But are they back for good? And can they really save both the climate and the motor industry? April Streeter peers under the bonnet.

The future commute

Anna Simpson 7 July 2009, Commuting, Congestion, Integrated transport, Mass transit/Public transport, Travel plans

Intelligent buses, driverless pods and brief encounters at the skytrain interchange… Could tomorrow’s transport be even sexier than a soft-top convertible? Anna Simpson takes a ride into tomorrow.

Crouching Tiger?

Sam Geall 7 July 2009, Asia, Awards & grants, Solar energy/PV

Will the recession derail China’s slow train to sustainability? Or could it spur a surge in green innovation which will see the country become the world’s leading cleantech hub? Sam Geall investigates.

What’s in the tea leaves?

Anna Simpson 5 June 2009, Africa, Agriculture & Food, Visions & futures

Exports of tea and fresh flowers are key to Kenya’s economy – but can they ever be sustainable?

Action on peak oil essential for business survival, say UK transport chiefs

Martin Wright 5 May 2009, Fossil fuels, Mass transit/Public transport

How prepared are the UK’s leading transport companies for a world of climate change and peak oil? Martin Wright talks to Brian Souter, Moir Lockhead, Will Whitehorn and Richard Brown.

Dried fruit, juicy prospects

Anna Simpson and Kay Sexton 1 May 2009, Africa, Farming/Horticulture, Retail

Bananas are not the only fruit… Kay Sexton talks to Tropical Wholefoods’ Adam Brett.

Burn the trees to save the world?

Chris Goodall and Hannah Bullock 30 April 2009, Carbon sequestration, Farming/Horticulture

It’s been touted as a solution to hunger, deforestation and global warming. So is biochar the magic bullet we’ve been waiting for? Chris Goodall investigates.

Sun, sea… sustainability

Ben Tuxworth and Ron Mader 27 February 2009, Americas, Holidays

With holidaymakers increasingly central to Mexico’s economy, can the industry ever become truly sustainable? Ron Mader and Ben Tuxworth scan the horizon.

Green revolution in the city of palaces

Jo Tuckman 27 February 2009, Americas, Mass transit/Public transport

Think of a list of potentially sustainable cities around the world. Would you include the Mexican capital? It might not spring to mind as a prime candidate – but the city’s current administration claims that soon it will be an automatic choice, says Jo Tuckman.

Bringing back the trees

Ben Tuxworth 27 February 2009, Americas, Climate change impacts, Forests

Forest destruction has been the curse of modern Mexico. But the threat of climate change could help drive some ambitious reforestation, reports Ben Tuxworth.

Fresh water for all

Ron Buchanan 27 February 2009, Americas, Water

Lots of water where people aren’t, not much where they are, and
a historic blunder by the conquistadors have left Mexico with a freshwater crisis. Ron Buchanan welcomes a boost to water treatment budgets – but it’s time for fresh thinking too.

Doing business with the poor

Ben Tuxworth 27 February 2009, Americas, Corporate responsibility

As Mexico climbs the ladder of rich nations, can business bring the poor out of poverty without destroying the environment? Ben Tuxworth gets engaged with the corporate culture.

“We are ready – we cannot wait any longer”

Jo Tuckman and Tiahoga Ruge 27 February 2009, Americas, International policies & agreements

Mexico can lead the developing world towards a new deal on climate change. So says Dr Mario Molina, the Nobel prize-winning scientist who now advises both the Mexican and the US presidents.

More energy… less carbon

Ron Buchanan 27 February 2009, Americas, Carbon reduction

Climate change is not the only problem facing the world, but it holds the key to the future of Mexico’s economy. Ron Buchanan looks at the country’s efforts to kick the high-carb habit.

A sanctuary for butterflies

Chris Alden and Ron Mader 27 February 2009, Americas, Conservation

The monarch butterfly is one of nature’s most remarkable long-distance travellers. Each spring, the insects migrate in their millions from their winter home, the Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Mexico.

Mangroves, monarchs and the end of a world

27 February 2009, Americas, Natural world & resources

On a journey through Mexico’s landscape, Tiahoga Ruge brings us face to face with the country’s diverse environment – and its challenges and opportunities.

Greening Quetzalcóatl

Ben Tuxworth and Jonathon Porritt 27 February 2009, Americas, Natural world & resources, Policy

Colossal riches; mighty challenges. Can President Felipe Calderón put Mexico on the path to a greener life? Jonathon Porritt and Ben Tuxworth consider the evidence.

India's green horizons

Malini Mehra and Martin Wright 21 January 2009, Asia, Energy sources

Behind the smoke of terror and the clouds of economic gloom, India is emerging as an unlikely frontrunner in a cleantech future, argues Malini Mehra.

Crunch time for a green new deal

Martin Wright 8 January 2009, Energy sources, Finance

Green growth and cleantech could help lift us out of recession, says… well, just everybody. So, if we’re all agreed, asks Martin Wright, what’s stopping us?

A desire named Streetcar

Hannah Bullock 5 January 2009, Cars

Hannah Bullock talks to Andrew Valentine, the man who aims to “take the hassle out of driving” – while taking our cars off the roads.

The future by degrees

Amy Fetzer 9 December 2008, Construction, Higher/Further Education

From campus life to coursework content and innovative research, universities should be at the forefront of the drive for sustainability. But are they up to it? Amy Fetzer gives our academic institutions the third degree.

Innovation nation

Martin Wright 13 November 2008, Climate change, Entrepreneurship

As a global competition launches offering big bucks to help tackle climate change, Martin Wright seeks out the entrepreneurs that are already combining creativity, green innovation and hard-headed business sense to cut the carbon – while making a profit.

Cities of light

Roger East 10 November 2008, Benchmarking/Rankings, Urban

As Forum for the Future unveils its latest Sustainable Cities Index, Roger East asks just what makes a city sustainable – and how do we begin to achieve it in the here and now?

Smarter bytes, slimmer footprints

Bill Thompson and Jon Wallace 13 October 2008, Information technology, Innovation

Bill Thompson feels the weight of the online world.

Zero hour for a new capitalism

Jonathon Porritt 13 October 2008, Climate change impacts, Corporate responsibility

Seize the time for sustainable capitalism, says Jonathon Porritt.

New Year’s Day 2030

James Goodman 13 October 2008, Climate change, Visions & futures

James Goodman explores contrasting futures for a world wrestling with a new climate.

Green house effect

Roger East and Terry Slavin 8 October 2008, Carbon offset/neutrality, Carbon reduction, Housing

Will new homes meet the zero-carbon test by 2016? Terry Slavin and Roger East investigate.

The futureproofers

Hannah Bullock and Vicki Lesley 19 September 2008, Local government, Social enterprise

Around the country, towns are printing their own currency, turning over scraps of land to grow food and re-skilling their workforce for a future where fossil fuels are no longer on tap.

Brand old

Clare Dowdy 21 July 2008, Marketing, Re-use/refurbishment

Vintage has made it from the fringe to the high street, as big brands decorate their stores with reclaimed materials. But if you scratch the surface is there any substance? Clare Dowdy asks what we’re buying into.

Reasons to be cheerful

Martin Wright 11 July 2008, Climate change, Energy issues

"We've just seen the first big win in the fight to stabilise the world's climate"

Lester Brown finds cause for optimism on climate change.

Energy for change

Martin Wright 28 June 2008, Awards & grants, Community energy, Solar energy/PV

Award-winning projects from Tibet to Truro.

Hang the DJ

Martin Wright 28 June 2008, Entrepreneurship, Radio

Chantal Cook saw the future of radio. Now she broadcasts it on Passion for the Planet.

Shelter from the storm?

Mike Scott 28 June 2008, Banking, Climate change impacts, Socially responsible investment

Mike Scott checks out green investment as a safe haven.

Riding with the Rail Guru

Ed Gillespie 28 June 2008, Aviation, Mass transit/Public transport, Railways, Transport & travel

Ed Gillespie meets The Man in Seat 61

“That’s good – it’s buying me a curry.” Mark Smith’s reaction to the first payment he received for ‘The Man in Seat 61’ is somehow typical of the man behind this pioneering train travel advice site.

What price carbon?

Rebecca Willis 27 June 2008, Carbon offset/neutrality, Carbon reduction, Planning, Policy

The government’s shadow pricing tool needs sharpening, says Rebecca Willis.

Into the red – out with the green?

20 June 2008, Banking, Business, Energy conservation & efficiency, Finance, Politics, Regulation, Retail, Socially responsible investment

Will recession force environmental issues down the agenda – or could it be an unlikely spur to more sustainable work, rest and play? Martin Wright investigates.

Recession: eclipse - or stimulus?

Ian Christie 23 May 2008, Banking, Business, Finance

Recession doesn’t have to mean a rollback of enthusiasm for sustainability, argues Ian Christie. Indeed, it might just act as a stimulus. Assuming we actually have one, that is…

The Green Futures Interview: Martin Wright meets Rowan Williams

Martin Wright 25 April 2008, Religion/spirituality, Society & culture

“The environmental crisis is the major moral issue which confronts us – and I’ve got into trouble for saying so.”

These days, we pretty much expect our archbishops to be turbulent priests.

A president to save the planet?

Polly Ghazi 23 April 2008, Americas, Politics

Colour, gender, age – whichever way it goes, the next US president will be the first. The first commited to tackling climate change. With fresh hope in her heart, Polly Ghazi draws the finer distinctions between the three contenders’ shades of green.

Carbon markets: time to clean up

Terry Slavin 19 March 2008, Carbon offset/neutrality, Carbon reduction, Climate change impacts

Stir it up: carbon finance boosts biogas in Nepal

The Clean Development Mechanism is widely derided as a source of easy pickings for wealthy polluters. So how, asks Terry Slavin, can it be made fit for purpose?

Ethical oilman

Mary Zacaroli 19 March 2008, Biofuels

As the biofuel debate becomes a snakepit, Mike Lawton sets out to make good business from jatropha oil – in every sense. Mary Zacaroli checks his profile.

Kicking ahead

Mark Hillsdon 19 March 2008, Carbon offset/neutrality, Carbon reduction, Sport

The beautiful game plays the green card – but Mark Hillsdon wants more.

How green is my lecky?

Rebecca Willis 19 March 2008, Energy sources

Is your green electricity tariff just a con? Rebecca Willis picks a way through the minefield to resolve the current chaos.

A future leader speaks

Ben Tuxworth 31 January 2008, Higher/Further Education, Young people

Who knows what today’s students think, hope and fear about the future? The Future Leaders Survey set out to find out – from 25,000 university applicants. Now they’re at college, Ben Tuxworth sought out the very embodiment of their various views. Here’s the compelling composite character he found – Jo Median.

Screen on the green

Chris Alden 25 January 2008, Culture, Energy conservation & efficiency

Hollywood’s just becoming aware of its Godzilla-sized footprint. Chris Alden checks the rushes for some action.

Holding out for a hero

Roger East 6 January 2008, Benchmarking/Rankings, Corporate responsibility

Where to find leadership in 2008? Roger East reveals the insiders’ views on who stands out on the sustainability scene.

Ten of the best… sustainable restaurants

Imogen Martineau 6 January 2008, Retail

Looking to do a deal over a meal? Imogen Martineau finds the places with the right credentials.

Après ski?

Ben Tuxworth 6 January 2008, Holidays, Sport

Skiing has become the quintessential winter break. But where will we turn when the snow runs out, asks Ben Tuxworth.

A switch in time

Roger East 5 January 2008, Fossil fuels, Hydro electric, Nuclear power, Solar energy/PV, Wave power/tidal, Wind power

Wanted: a clear and sustainable sense of direction on our electric options. The answers could fix the future of power for decades. Roger East tests the current.

Catch the tide

Jonathon Porritt 5 January 2008, Wave power/tidal

If we’re going to get a fifth of our energy from renewables, something big has to change, says Jonathon Porritt. The tide could do it.

Going green by stages

Claire Wyatt 5 January 2008, Culture

Claire Wyatt looks for a scene change in the theatre.

Creative energy

Chris Alden 26 October 2007, Biofuels, Cars, Community energy, Europe, Urban

Renewable power projects really can work. On a serious scale. Here’s the living proof – and a challenge for Britain to match.

Wired Earth

Chris Alden and Martin Wright 26 October 2007, Climate change, Culture, Inspiration

Everybody’s doing it. From Coldplay to the Kaiser Chiefs, green is the new rock ’n’ roll. But can pop stars really save the world? Chris Alden peers into the biofuelled tour bus.

Future Positive

Joy Green 26 October 2007, Visions & futures

It’s 2022 – and low carbon living is as attractive as it is crucial. So what’s on offer? In an exciting new project, Forum for the Future comes up with iconic adverts – and a thoughtful rationale – for the innovative products and services we’ll all be wanting.

The three Rs of climate change

Terry Slavin 9 October 2007, Schools

As term began, 250 more-than-usually-excited Worcester children surged back through the gates of Redhill School.

Fresh from the summer holidays, these are the first participants in an unprecedented experiment in sustainable learning.

The future is disruptive

Rebecca Willis 27 September 2007, Business, Entrepreneurship, Green government, People

The government is committed to reducing carbon, and promoting innovation. So why is it making life so hard for innovative entrepreneurs offering dramatic carbon savings? Rebecca Willis reveals the obstacles – and the opportunities – for the ‘disruptive innovators’.

Where skylarks dare

Terry Slavin 21 September 2007, Community energy, People, Wind power

Up on Adam Twine’s farm, five turbines spell out his commitment– to community-owned renewables. Yes, there’s a cost, in rural charm… but just look at the (human) energy potential.

Sexing the climate

Simon Fanshawe 20 September 2007, Behaviour change, Consumption, Women

Are men and women different when it comes to global warming? Simon Fanshawe pays manly tribute to sensitivity – and shopping.

Megacity mix and match

Iain Aitch 20 September 2007, Climate change, International policies & agreements, Transport & travel, Urban

Hot topics – or hot air? Iain Aitch looks for the action when big cities club together on climate change.

Start me up

Fiona Harvey 25 June 2007, Entrepreneurship

Fiona Harvey catches the new wave of entrepreneurs making money out of green innovation.

Leaders of the pack

Sally Uren 24 June 2007, Corporate responsibility

Sustainability suddenly got big in the boardroom. But we ain’t seen nothing yet, says Sally Uren.

What has sustainability got to do with… biofuels?

Hannah Bullock 24 June 2007, Biofuels

Hannah Bullock filters out the facts.

Rooftop revolutions

Mick Hamer and Roger East 24 June 2007, Microgeneration

Mick Hamer and Roger East size up micro-wind’s credibility gap.

Sustainable entrepreneur: River man

Martin Wright 24 June 2007, Organics

Martin Wright profiles Guy Watson, king of the vegbox.

People power

Chris Alden 24 June 2007, Community energy, Microgeneration

© Frank Hanswijk/D?ll-Atelier voor Bouwkunst

Every step you take, every move you make, every spin of the pedals on an exercise bike - you’re generating tiny amounts of power. Now scientists are working out how to turn it into electricity

How much do you want this forest (in millions)?

Terry Slavin 24 June 2007, Forests

Terry Slavin on turning forests to good account.

Q: What’s in your wallet? A: Power...

Julia Hailes 3 May 2007, Books, Consumption, Young people

Think green consumerism’s the latest thing? But will it last?

What has sustainability got to do with… Glastonbury?

3 May 2007, Consumption, Young people

Music, mud and... milk? Can Kay Sexton get this festival thing into focus?

The scrubbers, the sulphates and the sunshield solution

2 May 2007, Carbon offset/neutrality, Carbon reduction

Can we techno-fix climate change? Mick Hamer explores the possibilities.

Ten green bottles

Giovanna Dunmall 2 May 2007, Local food, Organics

It's the Fairtrade sugar that puts the 'freedom' in this ale

Organic ales, fair trade wine, returnable bottles, sustainable corks...

Lamb in full flower

Gail Vines 2 May 2007, Farming/Horticulture, Local food

You want to save a flower meadow? Eat a sheep that’s grazed on it. Gail Vines samples the all-round joys of ‘ecological food’.

Charging up the councils

Terry Slavin 2 May 2007, Community energy

Looks like Lanzarote ? works like Woking. Solar power for a sustainable Surrey.

Terry Slavin seeks out the new Wokings for the local energy revolution.

Changing Places

Irma Allen 2 May 2007, Eco-products & services, Holidays

Our guide to the greenest office get-aways.

What has sustainability got to do with… air freshener?

Hannah Bullock 9 March 2007

Hannah Bullock sniffs the breeze

The future in their eyes

James Goodman 9 March 2007, Young people

Where do tomorrow’s leaders think we’re heading? James Goodman reports on an eye-opening survey.

The best in greener computing

Jamie Smith 9 March 2007, Information technology

From wooden PCs to tiny laptops, our guide to the greenest machines.

Mosque with a mission

Gayle Burgess 9 March 2007, Behaviour change, Religion/spirituality

Gayle Burgess reports on a faith-based drive for greener living in London’s East End.

Green jihad

Abdul-Rehman Malik and Fareena Alam 9 March 2007, Behaviour change, Politics, Religion/spirituality

Fareena Alam and Abdul-Rehman Malik take a closer look at Muslim activism

Can coal come clean?

Roger East 9 March 2007, Fossil fuels

Does our dirtiest fossil fuel have a low-carbon future, asks Roger East.

Holidays of tomorrow?

Richard Hammond 15 January 2007, Holidays

From Berber-run hotels to

Village people

15 January 2007

Paul Kingsnorth visits the communities where grassroots action is changing people’s lives.

The Green Futures interview: David Miliband

12 January 2007, Politics, Young people

The rising star talks to Roger East about getting the planet back in balance.

Race to the bottom

Ben Tuxworth 12 January 2007, Holidays, Mass transit/Public transport

With glaciers in retreat and ever-shortening winters, how is the ski sector facing up to its literal meltdown? Ben Tuxworth reports

Local leaders

12 January 2007, Carbon reduction, Visions & futures

James Goodman travels in time to the ideal village of the future.

How green is my gap year?

Hannah Bullock 12 January 2007, Holidays, Young people

A year out that does you

Slow is beautiful

12 January 2007, Holidays

You’ve heard of Slow Food... Here comes Slow Travel. Ed Gillespie catches the train.

Five years on

Hannah Bullock and Velika Talyarkhan 8 November 2006

Brazilian ballgowns are just walking out of the shops

In our regular review, we revisit stories we picked out as interesting back in 2001, and check if they’re bearing fruit now.

My big fat green wedding

Lucy Siegle 8 November 2006, Eco-products & services, Women

Lucy Siegle on the joys of walking the talk all the way up the aisle.

The Green Futures interview: David Cameron

Martin Wright 8 November 2006, Politics, Young people

The Tory leader talks to Martin Wright about why green goes well with blue

Small talk

Paul Miller 8 November 2006, Nanotechnology

Paul Miller on shaping the future of nanotech.

Ethics on ice?

Kay Sexton 8 November 2006, Corporate responsibility, Entrepreneurship, Young people

What happens to the values when the big guys buy up the brand? Kay Sexton asks one half of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream.

Feeding Martin

8 November 2006, Farming/Horticulture, Local food

When a village started producing its own food, Hannah Bullock went down to dig out the story.

Asia steps on the gas

8 November 2006, Cars, Fossil fuels, Methane

Is CNG the fuel to give China’s car choked cities a breather? Ling Jin reports.

Ten of the best… green cars

Martin Wright 8 November 2006, Cars

Electric, hybrid, biodiesel, Smart... see how the top contenders measure up.

Urban Sages

5 November 2006

David Nicholson-Lord talkto to two city visionaries

Sustainable entrepreneur

9 October 2006, Construction, Entrepreneurship

Roof of Life Living Roofs crusader Dusty Gedge

Supermarket sweet?

Andrew Purvis 9 October 2006, Corporate responsibility, Retail

They’re keen to be to seen to be green. But is this a promise they can deliver? Andrew Purvis scans the shelves for signs of change.

Slipping into neutral

Mark Tran and Roger East 9 October 2006, Carbon offset/neutrality

Our special feature on carbon offsets. Mark Tran asks if it’s that easy to pay our way to climate responsibility.

It’s 2025. Who’s making money – and how?

Martin Wright 9 October 2006, Biofuels, Carbon reduction, Fossil fuels, Visions & futures

Sky-high energy and carbon prices are sure to change the way we travel, work and trade, says Martin Wright, in the final instalment of our scan of the future.

Greening The Catwalk: Fast fashion – heavy load

9 October 2006, Fair Trade, Fashion

What’s so bad about conventional fashion anyway? Andrew Purvis finds out.

Greening The Catwalk: Fashion statements

9 October 2006, Fashion, Young people

Alain de Botton, Oliver James, Christopher Breward and Sam Roddick on fashion addiction.

Greening The Catwalk: Cutting Edge

9 October 2006, Fashion

Lucy Siegle celebrates the eco-designers who’re doing less of the hippy and more of the hip.

Choice: the curse of the green consumer?

7 July 2006, Consumption, Corporate responsibility, Fair Trade, Retail, Socially responsible investment

Ethical shopping is booming as never before, but Andrew Purvis thinks it’s time for niche to go mainstream.

Sound surfing

Hannah Bullock 7 July 2006, Carbon offset/neutrality, Entrepreneurship, Mass transit/Public transport, Materials

Hannah Bullock goes in search of cool dudes out to green their sport.

Sailing into the sunrise

Esther Maughan McLachlan and Roger East 7 July 2006, Holidays, Solar energy/PV

Silent solar launches in the Lakes.

It’s 2025. Who’s making money – and how?

Martin Wright 7 July 2006, Biofuels, Cars, Hydrogen/fuel cells, Information technology, Recycling, Visions & futures

Sky-high energy and carbon prices are sure to change the way we travel, work and trade, says Martin Wright, in the first instalment of his two-part scan of the future.

The future’s green, the future’s... Welsh?

Julian Rollins 7 July 2006, Construction, Green government, Hydro electric

Julian Rollins unpacks Wales’s sustainability experiment.

Fishermen’s friends?

Mark Hillsdon 22 May 2006

Where do fishermen turn for work when the stocks run out? Mark Hillsdon goes to see.

Transport of delight

Juliette Jowit 22 May 2006, Commuting, Congestion, Green government, Mass transit/Public transport, Travel plans

Road building got us nowhere with traffic. Juliette Jowit seeks out the smarter travel alternatives.

Asian buy-in?

Roger Cowe 22 May 2006, Australasia, Corporate responsibility, Social enterprise

Roger Cowe asks if our CSR culture is poised to go west as the East moves in.

Navigating the future

Peter Madden 22 May 2006, Visions & futures, Young people

As Forum for the Future reaches its tenth birthday, Peter Madden looks ahead to the next decade, and the Forum founders share their ideas on where next.

Wanted: a Ministry of Light

8 March 2006, Budget/Taxation, Energy conservation & efficiency, Sustainable accounting, Visions & futures

A ten-point plan to expose and dispel those hidden costs.

Wise up to nuclear folly

Amory Lovins 8 March 2006, Behaviour change, Nuclear power

Amory Lovins on the unacceptable opportunity cost to the climate.

Dos and Don'ts for mind changers

Steve Hounsham 8 March 2006, Behaviour change, Communications/Reporting, Marketing, Toolkits/information packs

Campaigners need to change their tune, says Green-Engage. Time to drop the communication clangers and share the secrets of success.

The Green Futures interview: Michael Palin

8 March 2006, Overseas development, Young people

Television’s globetrotter shares the tough lessons of travel.

Who’s closest to the smart money?

8 March 2006, Benchmarking/Rankings, Corporate responsibility

Putting businesses on the leader board in pursuit of sustainability.

2020 Postcard

Imogen Martineau 8 March 2006, Holidays, Information technology, Visions & futures

Wish you were there? Imogen Martineau previews the sustainable holiday of the future.

Greening the rose

Roger East and Saskia Walzel 8 March 2006, Consumption, Eco-products & services, Fair Trade, Farming/Horticulture, Organics, Retail

In quest of organic flowers.

Art for earth’s sake: Melting Into The Mind

Ed Gillespie 5 January 2006, Behaviour change, Climate change impacts, Culture, Wildlife

Ed Gillespie explores how art can change the climate of opinion on climate change.

H2Go: are we nearly there yet?

Hannah Bullock and Simon Hadlington 5 January 2006, Cars, Hydrogen/fuel cells

Simon Hadlington assesses the future of the hydrogen economy

Art for earth’s sake: Outside In

Hannah Bullock 5 January 2006, Culture, Young people

Can landscapes become art? Hannah Bullock talks to Richard Long.

Art for earth’s sake: Move over Tracey

Hannah Bullock 5 January 2006, Behaviour change, Climate change impacts, Culture, Recycling

The new wave of artists is challenging us to see the world differently. Hannah Bullock reports.

Slim City

Ben Willis and Roger East 5 January 2006, Behaviour change, Commuting, Green government, Health, Travel plans, Walking

Ben Willis walks into an urban war on obesity.

Over A Barrel

Ben Tuxworth 5 January 2006, Alcohol, Behaviour change, Consumption, Health, Young people

Ben Tuxworth reveals the true cost of our love affair with alcohol, and asks if we’ll ever be sustainably squiffy.

Hey big spender

Ben Tuxworth 11 November 2005, Budget/Taxation, Green government, Procurement

Ben Tuxworth on the pulling power of green public procurement

Staying power

Martin Wright 11 November 2005, Entrepreneurship, Holidays, Young people

Martin Wright profiles Alistair Sawday, who brought Special Places to the discerning traveller

Public squalor, private bling

David Boyle 11 November 2005, Behaviour change, Consumption, Culture

What’s with the diamond-encrusted phones, when we can’t stump up for the common good? David Boyle offers some suggestions.

Whatever happened to the teeming millions?

David Nicholson-Lord 11 November 2005

David Nicholson-Lord breathes life into the population debate

Spaced out thinking

Ben Tuxworth 21 September 2005, Green government, Policy

Good planners need to ask where

Switched-on solution

Rebecca Willis 21 September 2005, Energy conservation & efficiency

Rebecca Willis on the logic and likelihood of energy

Capitalism, as if the world matters

Jonathon Porritt 20 September 2005, Books, Visions & futures

It’s the only candidate to save the planet, says Jonathon Porritt.

Degrees of separation

Polly Curtis and Roger East 20 September 2005, Higher/Further Education

As universities go global, Polly Curtis and Roger East ask who gains.

Other fish to fry

Hannah Bullock 21 July 2005, Conservation, Fishing, Marine/coastal, Young people

Hannah Bullock talks to Rick Stein, the fish loving chef with a mission.

Masterclass - Twenty-four hour turnaround

Roger East 21 July 2005, Behaviour change, Professional development

Roger East on Jonathon Porritt’s 24-hour challenge to inspire change.

Like learning to read...

Polly Curtis and Sara Parkin 21 July 2005, Behaviour change, Education & Careers, Higher/Further Education

Everyone should understand something about sustainability, insist Sara Parkin and Polly Curtis

How to change nappies

Kay Sexton 21 July 2005, Eco-products & services, Materials, Re-use/refurbishment

Kay Sexton speaks to the woman behind a reusable revolution.

Home truths for carbon

Charlie Jacoby 20 July 2005, Carbon reduction, Eco-products & services, Energy conservation & efficiency, Housing

Can eco-housing cross over into the mainstream? Charlie Jacoby takes some soundings.

Softly, softly

Solitaire Townsend 22 June 2005, Behaviour change, Climate change impacts, Magazines & newspapers, Radio, TV

Changing attitudes to climate change is a subtle game. Solitaire Townsend tells us how to win it.

Nike takes the mike

Stephanie Draper 22 June 2005, Corporate responsibility, Mass transit/Public transport

Greenwash or groundbreaking?
Stephanie Draper reports.

Smart Chip Checkup

Tim Aldrich 22 June 2005, Information technology, Retail

Tim Aldrich probes the possibilities in the world of pervasive computing.

US climate of uncertainty

Polly Ghazi 22 June 2005, Americas, Green government

Polly Ghazi finds the sceptics still hogging the airtime across the Atlantic.

Get with the programme

Stella Bland 22 June 2005, Climate change impacts, Magazines & newspapers

Stella Bland on how to stop global warming becoming yesterday’s news.

Show & Tell

Mark Nicholls 22 June 2005, Corporate responsibility

Will new rules for plcs make their reports any more revealing? Mark Nicholls needs persuading.

Finding the X Factor

Esther Maughan McLachlan 15 March 2005, Green government, Politics

Can’t

Melting Down the Myths

Hannah Bullock 15 March 2005, Nuclear power

If nuclear power looks like the answer, are we asking the right questions? Hannah Bullock reports.

Blooming Liabilities

Roger Cowe 15 March 2005, Corporate responsibility

Corporate nasties are already smarting from judgments in the court of public opinion. Roger Cowe on the lessons to be learned.

About Time

Alma Owen, Jay Griffiths and Robert Graham 11 March 2005, Behaviour change, Books, Culture, Telecommunications

Thought-provoking perspectives on our most elusive resource.

Fast forward to the future

Hannah Bullock 27 January 2005, Visions & futures

Our 100th edition isn’t due until July/August 2013, but we bring you a special preview

Fast Forward to 2013: Briefings

Michael Buick 26 January 2005, Visions & futures

Fast Forward to 2013: Crossroads & crescents

Nick Spencer 26 January 2005, Religion/spirituality

The power of faith impresses Nick Spencer, who reports on its role in cementing sustainable communities.

Fast Forward to 2013: High Time

Jonathon Porritt 26 January 2005, Visions & futures

Imminent calamity woke us up. Jonathon Porritt on learning the hard way.

Specs in the City

Roger Cowe 26 January 2005, Benchmarking/Rankings, Stock market

Roger Cowe wants regulators to look harder at what investors need to know

Supping with a long spoon

Oliver Balch and Roger East 26 January 2005, Corporate responsibility, Human rights, Young people

Should I stay or should I go? Tough ethical choices on constructive engagement.

Fast Forward to 2013: Call the emergency services!

Ian Christie 26 January 2005, Climate change impacts, International policies & agreements, Visions & futures

Are exotic technical fixes the only remaining options on climate change? Ian Christie investigates.

Fast Forward to 2013: Partners Viewpoint - Tempus fugit

Peter Malaise 26 January 2005, Visions & futures

Sustainable soap opera

Fast Forward to 2013: No Mean Dream

Melissa Mean 26 January 2005

Melissa Mean celebrates life in the Thames Gateway and the fruits of its eco-tourist industry.

Diminuendo

Martin Wright 26 January 2005, Carbon reduction, Young people

Martin Wright profiles Aubrey Meyer, the composer turned climate campaigner.

Safe Futures?

Martin Wright 21 November 2004, Microgeneration, Peace/security

Martin Wright uncovers the intimate link between sustainability and security.

Cutting a new climate deal

Polly Ghazi 21 November 2004, Americas, Carbon reduction

America’s biggest companies are wising up to carbon trading. Polly Ghazi reports.

Private Finance, Public Promise

Ben Tuxworth 21 November 2004, Budget/Taxation, Procurement, Socially responsible investment

The jury’s out on PFI as a path to green building, argues Ben Tuxworth.

Blowing away the myths

Roger East 10 November 2004, Wind power

Stand up for wind power. Roger East says why.

Plan and deliver

Jonathon Porritt 10 November 2004, Planning

Jonathon Porritt celebrates the planners’ glorious and uplifting mission.

Smart carb quota

Roger East 10 November 2004, Carbon reduction, Visions & futures

Roger East explores the personal carbon rationing route to emissions control.

Worlds apart

Sara Parkin 7 September 2004, Skills & training

Sara Parkin argues for clarity from the government in framing the market for human talent.

Just Chill?

Hannah Bullock 7 September 2004, Behaviour change, Marketing, Young people

As the environment really hots up, Hannah Bullock finds out why young people are so chilled out.

Sustainability inside

Kath Stathers 7 September 2004, Employment, Farming/Horticulture, Skills & training

Kath Stathers on sustainable prisons

Master class

Esther Maughan McLachlan and Jamie Wallace 7 September 2004, Higher/Further Education, Professional development, Skills & training

Can sustainability specialists set the world to rights? Jamie Wallace and Esther Maughan talk to former graduates, finding out how their skills suit the real world.

Material whirl

Edwin Datschefski 7 September 2004, Composting, Landfill, Materials, Products & processes

What’s the green materials option

Under Construction

Ben Tuxworth 14 July 2004, Construction, Materials

Ben Tuxworth gets insulated with old news, drylines his walls with wood waste in the mix, and sees his old oak trees take on a new identity.

Taking the Measure - A better way to score

Roger East 7 July 2004, Green government

Are we making progress?

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Quips

“Time is our scarcest resource. We are crossing natural thresholds that we cannot see and violating deadlines that we do not recognise. These deadlines are set by nature. Nature is the timekeeper, but we cannot see the clock."Veteran US environmental crisis-confronter Lester Brown, publicising his latest book 'Plan B 3.0: Mobilizing to Save Civilization'

$100 billion

The investment capital that flowed into renewable energy last year, according to a new UN Environment Programme report, which projects that clean energy could provide a quarter of the world’s electricity.