Author: Rex

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Evolution: The view from the cottage

Using the natural landscape around his Southern Quebec cottage as the central theme, author Jean-Pierre Rogel explores topics as diverse as genetically modified corn and whale taxonomy. He has much practice in engaging people in nature appreciation: As the host of the Radio-Canada science program Découverte, Rogel has been a public figure in Quebec for years. He has also written about genetics and evolution, although he is not yet well known among Anglophones. This, his fourth book, has been translated effectively to give English-speaking readers a taste of his engaging style. Reading this book immerses the reader in his cottage experiences, fleshed out by strong factual analysis.
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British Columbia, Design and Technology, Energy

Video: Exciting Prospects Ahead for CaGBC Greenbuilding Sector

Green Home TV caught up with Thomas Mueller, President of the Canada Green Building Council (CaGBC) recently at the CaGBC’s Symposium 2011. Mr. Mueller shared with us about the Symposium’s focus on existing buildings and the CaGBC’s programs to help reduce energy and water consumption in commercial, industrial and high capacity residential by 50% by 2020. Mr. Mueller also updated us on other exciting developments in low-rise residential including Adera’s LEED Platinum Seven35 Project. Continue reading Video: Exciting Prospects Ahead for CaGBC Greenbuilding Sector

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Poisoned For Profit

In Poisoned for Profit: How Toxins Are Making Our Children Chronically Ill, Philip and Alice Shabecoff present an impeccably researched parallel between the proliferation of environmental toxins and the dramatic increase in chronic childhood disease in the US. Through the voice of a prosecutor giving evidence to a jury, they present a criminal case of chemical assault on children. The victims’ stories are woven through the book, as is the complex web of chemical corporations, government agencies, politicians, scientists, lawyers and lobbyists that are perpetrators and co-conspirators in this heinous crime. The book asks: Where is the justice for the children?
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Green Giveaways are back!


Heads-up, green book lovers! Because we like ya, and because Spring’s here, and because it’s hump day, we’re bringing back our regular giveaways. Hurrah!
Just click on the Green Giveaways button to the right and find out how you can win this month’s gift: an updated and expanded edition of Hot, Flat, and Crowded, the bestseller by Thomas L. Friedman.
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British Columbia, Natural Resources Management

Some populations of Fraser River salmon more likely to survive climate change: UBC study

Populations of Fraser River sockeye salmon are so fine-tuned to their environment that any further environmental changes caused by climate change could lead to the disappearance of some populations, while others may be less affected, says a new study by University of British Columbia scientists. Continue reading Some populations of Fraser River salmon more likely to survive climate change: UBC study

Water

The Epidemic

The trust inherent in a community’s relationship with its water utility is profound and often unquestioned. That is, until a rash of illness opens the floodgate to doubt. In The Epidemic: A Collision of Power, Privilege, and Public Health, author David DeKok reconstructs a deadly typhoid epidemic in Ithaca, New York, in 1903. In Canada, the cases of Walkerton, Ontario, North Battleford, Saskatchewan, and the 116 First Nations communities currently on boil water orders are reminders that lessons all too often need to be relearned.
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EcoBooks – Alternatives Journal Issue: 37.3

Whether it’s made of paper or pixels, the latest issue of Alternatives Journal is essential reading. Fresh from his legacy tour, David Suzuki reveals his inner-most thoughts; tar sands decrier Andrew Nikiforuk rips into “ethical oil;” the country’s top green writers tell us what they keep by their bedsides; we look at last year’s bestsellers; and publishing-industry guru Nic Boshart gives you the lowdown on e-books. Accompanied by 22 reviews of ecobooks and eco-films as well as beautiful art from Robert Bateman, David Blackwood and others, this issue ofAlternatives is one read you won’t put down. Continue reading EcoBooks – Alternatives Journal Issue: 37.3