CPT - News http://www.globalmarshallplan.org Short description Occupy Movements During COP17 in Durban Children and youth demonstrate for a better future

Six young Canadians were thrown out of the United Nations climate change negotiations in Durban, South Africa. Matthew, Sonia, Brigette, Meghan, James and Karen explain why: “As Canada’s environment minister delivered his opening address to the plenary of assembled countries, we stood up in silence and turned our backs on him. We wore T-shirts that read “People before Polluters,” and “Turn Your Back On Canada.” UN security ushered us out, stripped us of our badges and ejected us from the building. One person can take a stand. Six people can take a stand. But it is when hundreds of us, thousands, millions of us choose to stand up to our government and advocate for an alternative to the current path, that a safe home for us all becomes possible again."

Felix (14) and Carolin (13) travelled all the way from Germany to Durban, but as minors from the civil society they were not longer allowed in 2011 to join the COP17 negotiations during the high level end although Felix and friends got access to the high level end negotiations the year before in Cancun.

How can we children trust in the adults....

  • ...that they will not break their promises in future again?
  • ...that no other governments will follow Canada’s exemple and withdraw from binding agreements in future?

In our global board we decided that we will concentrate during the next COPs, starting from Quatar in 2012 to demonstrate in front of the government seats in our capitals and in front of the ambassies as we did already during COP15 in Berlin. We will demonstrate for global binding agreements earlier then 2020 and we will fight for climate justice. Without climate justice every day our future will become bleaker and bleaker. During COP17 we already participated in the Occupy movements and demonstrated for a better future. Here you can watch a video of our Occupy:

]]> http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/27/Prev_canada_teaser.JPG Children and youth demonstrate for a better future Six young Canadians were thrown out of the United Nations climate change negotiations in Durban, South Africa. Matthew, Sonia, Brigette, Meghan, James and Karen explain why: “As Canada’s environment minister delivered his opening address to the plenary of assembled countries, we stood up in silence and turned our backs on him. We wore T-shirts that read “People before Polluters,” and “Turn Your Back On Canada.” UN security ushered us out, stripped us of our badges and ejected us from the building. One person can take a stand. Six people can take a stand. But it is when hundreds of us, thousands, millions of us choose to stand up to our government and advocate for an alternative to the current path, that a safe home for us all becomes possible again."

Felix (14) and Carolin (13) travelled all the way from Germany to Durban, but as minors from the civil society they were not longer allowed in 2011 to join the COP17 negotiations during the high level end although Felix and friends got access to the high level end negotiations the year before in Cancun.

How can we children trust in the adults....

  • ...that they will not break their promises in future again?
  • ...that no other governments will follow Canada’s exemple and withdraw from binding agreements in future?

In our global board we decided that we will concentrate during the next COPs, starting from Quatar in 2012 to demonstrate in front of the government seats in our capitals and in front of the ambassies as we did already during COP15 in Berlin. We will demonstrate for global binding agreements earlier then 2020 and we will fight for climate justice. Without climate justice every day our future will become bleaker and bleaker. During COP17 we already participated in the Occupy movements and demonstrated for a better future. Here you can watch a video of our Occupy:

]]> 1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3365 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3365 Fri, 27 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Plant-for-the-Planet]]> International Green Week Berlin It is possible to Feed 9 Billion People

 
Last Friday’s International Green Week has already placed groundbreaking emphasis on the international food and agriculture policies. At the 4th International Berlin Agriculture Ministers' Summit, organised within this context, ministers for agriculture from 64 nations developed strategies for global food security. In doing so, they highlighted the role of a sustainable and productive agriculture and in their closing statement committed themselves to an agriculture which was consistently orientated towards the principles of resource conservation and sustainability. Investments and more secure access to land and water should be made possible for small farmers. Loss and wastage of food must be reduced. The conclusion of the Berlin Agriculture Ministers' Summit should give impetus to the UN Conference on Sustainable Development, which takes place in Rio de Janeiro in June 2012.    

Before the summit 800 representatives from politics and economy to science and civil society gathered to swap ideas with agriculture ministers on the theme of “Food security through sustainable growth – Agricultural Use of scarce resources.” The general director of the World Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), José Graziano da Silva, called for a comprehensive partnership to fight hunger, support women, and for the access to and efficient use of water. The EU Commissioner for Agriculture, Dacian Ciolos, importantly point outs that the responsibility for sustainability lies not only on the production side, but also on the part of the consumer. For Kenya’s Minister for Agriculture, Sally Jemng’etich Kosgei, it is especially important to establish the necessary infrastructure, so that in emergency situations food can be brought from surplus food regions to those lacking food. The Chinese Vice Agriculture Minister Yuxiang Zhang considers food security in his country as good. For him industrialisation and urbanisation represent the reason for a drop in arable areas. To prevent production and after crop loses, the government have invested in pest-resistant plant species and flood protection, as well as cold storage. Indonesia’s Minister for Agriculture Asyraf Suswono called for better international cooperation in the research for more productive and nutritious varieties. Above all his country backs the delivery of self-sufficiency through new production areas and improved irrigation systems. The Brazilian Minister for Agriculture, Jorge Mendes Ribero Filho, emphasised that cultivators do not damage but preserve the environment and stressed that in his government production and environmental protection are put on equal footing.

At the International Business Panel food and agricultural industries expressed their views. The organisers want to promote their work with their newly founded association “The Global Forum for Food and Agriculture Berlin”, introduced at the start of the event, to improve the global food supply for the future

The mission statement of “Green Economy” represents for all participants the answer to the current problems. This economy includes the ecological sustainability, economic profitability and social inclusion. At the same time, it constitutes no conflict to growth and is also not a luxury, as the Deputy General Director of the World Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Fernanda Guerrieri informed.

The European president for John Deere, a manufacturer of agricultural machinery, stressed the importance of training, as “in order to ensure sustainable food throughout the world, there is a necessary requirement of considerable coordination, above all for small farmers”.

Read the full article here (in German)

(Image source: International Green Week)

]]> http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_igw_logo_de.JPG It is possible to Feed 9 Billion People  
Last Friday’s International Green Week has already placed groundbreaking emphasis on the international food and agriculture policies. At the 4th International Berlin Agriculture Ministers' Summit, organised within this context, ministers for agriculture from 64 nations developed strategies for global food security. In doing so, they highlighted the role of a sustainable and productive agriculture and in their closing statement committed themselves to an agriculture which was consistently orientated towards the principles of resource conservation and sustainability. Investments and more secure access to land and water should be made possible for small farmers. Loss and wastage of food must be reduced. The conclusion of the Berlin Agriculture Ministers' Summit should give impetus to the UN Conference on Sustainable Development, which takes place in Rio de Janeiro in June 2012.    

Before the summit 800 representatives from politics and economy to science and civil society gathered to swap ideas with agriculture ministers on the theme of “Food security through sustainable growth – Agricultural Use of scarce resources.” The general director of the World Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), José Graziano da Silva, called for a comprehensive partnership to fight hunger, support women, and for the access to and efficient use of water. The EU Commissioner for Agriculture, Dacian Ciolos, importantly point outs that the responsibility for sustainability lies not only on the production side, but also on the part of the consumer. For Kenya’s Minister for Agriculture, Sally Jemng’etich Kosgei, it is especially important to establish the necessary infrastructure, so that in emergency situations food can be brought from surplus food regions to those lacking food. The Chinese Vice Agriculture Minister Yuxiang Zhang considers food security in his country as good. For him industrialisation and urbanisation represent the reason for a drop in arable areas. To prevent production and after crop loses, the government have invested in pest-resistant plant species and flood protection, as well as cold storage. Indonesia’s Minister for Agriculture Asyraf Suswono called for better international cooperation in the research for more productive and nutritious varieties. Above all his country backs the delivery of self-sufficiency through new production areas and improved irrigation systems. The Brazilian Minister for Agriculture, Jorge Mendes Ribero Filho, emphasised that cultivators do not damage but preserve the environment and stressed that in his government production and environmental protection are put on equal footing.

At the International Business Panel food and agricultural industries expressed their views. The organisers want to promote their work with their newly founded association “The Global Forum for Food and Agriculture Berlin”, introduced at the start of the event, to improve the global food supply for the future

The mission statement of “Green Economy” represents for all participants the answer to the current problems. This economy includes the ecological sustainability, economic profitability and social inclusion. At the same time, it constitutes no conflict to growth and is also not a luxury, as the Deputy General Director of the World Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Fernanda Guerrieri informed.

The European president for John Deere, a manufacturer of agricultural machinery, stressed the importance of training, as “in order to ensure sustainable food throughout the world, there is a necessary requirement of considerable coordination, above all for small farmers”.

Read the full article here (in German)

(Image source: International Green Week)

]]> 1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3363 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3363 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]> Farming Money How Banks profit from Food Speculation

A new study, published, among others, by WEED (World Economy, Ecology & Development) and coordinated by Friends of the Earth Europe, examines and evaluates the European financial actors in the market of agricultural commodities.

During the recent tumultuous course of the financial markets, agricultural commodity futures have become increasingly attractive to financial investors and speculators. This leads to prices no longer being solely driven by supply and demand, but also increasingly by the actions of financial speculators and the performance of their investments.
Financial transactions with agricultural commodities are leading to higher prices for consumers. High food prices hit the most vulnerable the hardest and threatens their right to food. Farmers are also affected by rapid price swings, because farm viability is threatened, making it more difficult for them to maintain a predictable income.
The study recommends a set of key measures to regulate EU financial markets and tighten corporate policies on financial services and investments in food commodity derivatives and
land deals.

In this context WEED developed, in conjunction with Misereor and Oxfam, a Background Paper about the commodity business of the Deutsche Bank. The bank is at the fore in this field: just the 45 funds investigated at the beginning of 2011 were worth almost an estimated 5 billion dollars.
The Background Paper was published with a press release that asks the Deutsche Bank to withdraw from this business.

Read the full study and the Background Paper (in German).

(Pictures: WEED)

]]> http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_farming_money.JPG How Banks profit from Food Speculation A new study, published, among others, by WEED (World Economy, Ecology & Development) and coordinated by Friends of the Earth Europe, examines and evaluates the European financial actors in the market of agricultural commodities.

During the recent tumultuous course of the financial markets, agricultural commodity futures have become increasingly attractive to financial investors and speculators. This leads to prices no longer being solely driven by supply and demand, but also increasingly by the actions of financial speculators and the performance of their investments.
Financial transactions with agricultural commodities are leading to higher prices for consumers. High food prices hit the most vulnerable the hardest and threatens their right to food. Farmers are also affected by rapid price swings, because farm viability is threatened, making it more difficult for them to maintain a predictable income.
The study recommends a set of key measures to regulate EU financial markets and tighten corporate policies on financial services and investments in food commodity derivatives and
land deals.

In this context WEED developed, in conjunction with Misereor and Oxfam, a Background Paper about the commodity business of the Deutsche Bank. The bank is at the fore in this field: just the 45 funds investigated at the beginning of 2011 were worth almost an estimated 5 billion dollars.
The Background Paper was published with a press release that asks the Deutsche Bank to withdraw from this business.

Read the full study and the Background Paper (in German).

(Pictures: WEED)

]]> 1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3361 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3361 Thu, 26 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]> 2012 Top 100 Best NGOs The Global Journal announces 2012 Top 100 Best NGOs


The Global Journal has released its list of the Top 100 Best NGOs, the first international ranking of its kind. Attempting to overcome outdated clichés and limited understanding of what an NGO is and does, the Global Journal focuses on the increasing global influence NGOs have on social changes.

Awarding Wikimedia Foundation with the number one spot, the magazine names it “a quintessential example of the power of a great idea well executed”. Wikimedia’s most famous initiative, Wikipedia, receives praise for how it has revolutionised the way the world obtains information, and how it quickly became the largest collection of shared knowledge in human history.

Humanitarian organisation, CARE, took the seventh spot and was commended for its expertise that span over 65 years. With more than 95% of its work force made up of local personnel, the organisation continues to align their projects with the individual needs of the population.


Top 10
#01 - Wikimedia Foundation
#02 - Partners In Health
#03 - Oxfam
#04 - BRAC
#05 - International Rescue Committee
#06 - PATH, #07 - CARE International
#08 - Médecins Sans Frontières
#09 - Danish Refugee Council
#10 - Ushahidi

View the Top 100 Best NGOs full list here.

Read the full article on CARE here.

(Image source: The Global Journal)

]]> http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_Top100bestngos.JPG The Global Journal announces 2012 Top 100 Best NGOs
The Global Journal has released its list of the Top 100 Best NGOs, the first international ranking of its kind. Attempting to overcome outdated clichés and limited understanding of what an NGO is and does, the Global Journal focuses on the increasing global influence NGOs have on social changes.

Awarding Wikimedia Foundation with the number one spot, the magazine names it “a quintessential example of the power of a great idea well executed”. Wikimedia’s most famous initiative, Wikipedia, receives praise for how it has revolutionised the way the world obtains information, and how it quickly became the largest collection of shared knowledge in human history.

Humanitarian organisation, CARE, took the seventh spot and was commended for its expertise that span over 65 years. With more than 95% of its work force made up of local personnel, the organisation continues to align their projects with the individual needs of the population.


Top 10
#01 - Wikimedia Foundation
#02 - Partners In Health
#03 - Oxfam
#04 - BRAC
#05 - International Rescue Committee
#06 - PATH, #07 - CARE International
#08 - Médecins Sans Frontières
#09 - Danish Refugee Council
#10 - Ushahidi

View the Top 100 Best NGOs full list here.

Read the full article on CARE here.

(Image source: The Global Journal)

]]> 0 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3353 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3353 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]> Communication à la Leagas Delaney Hamburg agency backed us kids from the start

Felix's wish is that he gets to do his first internship at some point in June 2013 at the Hamburg office of agency Leagas Delaney. Felix is fascinated how Hermann and his team support the children again and again with new ideas. He was just 8 years old and accompanied by his father, when Felix first sat in the Leagas Delaney agency in Hamburg und listened as the adults talked about the creative design of bookcovers. Here he experienced for the first time such a thing as a communications agency. Then a year and a half later when he founded Plant for the Planet in 2007 and needed communications support, it was clear that Felix would turn to Hermann.

Hermann then suggested the “Stop Talking Start Planting” campaign in June 2009. At first Felix’s father, Frithjof, was completely against it. “It’s impossible that covering their mouths gives a positive image. It’s disrespectful! Absolutely not!” Frithjof turned down the campaign and asked L&D for other suggestions. A week passed. Meanwhile Felix and Frithjof had often discussed it and Felix asked “Why shouldn’t we go with it?” and Frithjof finally caved in.

In October 2010 the campaign “Stop Talking Start Planting” won the Golden Effie, a kind of Oscar for communications agencies, which Hermann and Felix received in Berlin.

More about the campaign „Stop talking Start planting“ here

Current activities also always on our Facebook page “Stop talking Start planting”

Video and pictures from the Effie awards show 8th October 2010 in Berlin:

You can find about all about our new campaign from Leagas Delaney here 

]]> Hamburg agency backed us kids from the start Felix's wish is that he gets to do his first internship at some point in June 2013 at the Hamburg office of agency Leagas Delaney. Felix is fascinated how Hermann and his team support the children again and again with new ideas. He was just 8 years old and accompanied by his father, when Felix first sat in the Leagas Delaney agency in Hamburg und listened as the adults talked about the creative design of bookcovers. Here he experienced for the first time such a thing as a communications agency. Then a year and a half later when he founded Plant for the Planet in 2007 and needed communications support, it was clear that Felix would turn to Hermann.

Hermann then suggested the “Stop Talking Start Planting” campaign in June 2009. At first Felix’s father, Frithjof, was completely against it. “It’s impossible that covering their mouths gives a positive image. It’s disrespectful! Absolutely not!” Frithjof turned down the campaign and asked L&D for other suggestions. A week passed. Meanwhile Felix and Frithjof had often discussed it and Felix asked “Why shouldn’t we go with it?” and Frithjof finally caved in.

In October 2010 the campaign “Stop Talking Start Planting” won the Golden Effie, a kind of Oscar for communications agencies, which Hermann and Felix received in Berlin.

More about the campaign „Stop talking Start planting“ here

Current activities also always on our Facebook page “Stop talking Start planting”

Video and pictures from the Effie awards show 8th October 2010 in Berlin:

You can find about all about our new campaign from Leagas Delaney here 

]]> 1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3351 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3351 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Plant-for-the-Planet]]> Leaves Featuring Polluters Leagas Delaney develops new campaign

It's a job that could hardly be more delicate. The Spanish cut-art artist Lorenzo Durán has magicked up miniature worlds into ordinary leaves, which are not only impressive but also thought provoking. The motives were created for us by the Hamburg agency Leagas Delaney - inspired by Durán.

"The simple ideas are the most often the most fascinating. So simple is the children from Plant-for-the-Planet's idea that in spite of the idleness of politicians, it's possible to fight against air pollution and plant many trees all over the world. Also so simple and compelling is the idea to show what trees and their leaves directly do for us. They purify the air." says Hermann Waterkamp, representative Executive Creative Director at Leagas Delaney.

Here you can view all the pictures from the campaign:

 


Here is some of the media coverage of our new campaign (in German)

Perfekt zugeschnitten: Leagas Delaney und Cut-Art-Künstler zaubern für den Naturschutz

Appell an Baumspender: Plant-for-the-Planet startet Printkampagne

Hamburgs Kreative

Leagas Delaney pflanzt mit Plant-for-the-Planet Bäume

Leagas Delaney recycelt Blätter für Plant-for-the-Planet

Lorenzo Durán unterstützt mit seiner Blätterkunst Plant-for-the-Planet

Plant-for-the-Planet ruft mit neuer Printkampagne zu Spenden auf

Cut-Art-Künstler zaubern für den Naturschutz, nachhaltig!

]]> http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/27/Prev_blattkampagne_teaser.JPG Leagas Delaney develops new campaign It's a job that could hardly be more delicate. The Spanish cut-art artist Lorenzo Durán has magicked up miniature worlds into ordinary leaves, which are not only impressive but also thought provoking. The motives were created for us by the Hamburg agency Leagas Delaney - inspired by Durán.

"The simple ideas are the most often the most fascinating. So simple is the children from Plant-for-the-Planet's idea that in spite of the idleness of politicians, it's possible to fight against air pollution and plant many trees all over the world. Also so simple and compelling is the idea to show what trees and their leaves directly do for us. They purify the air." says Hermann Waterkamp, representative Executive Creative Director at Leagas Delaney.

Here you can view all the pictures from the campaign:

 


Here is some of the media coverage of our new campaign (in German)

Perfekt zugeschnitten: Leagas Delaney und Cut-Art-Künstler zaubern für den Naturschutz

Appell an Baumspender: Plant-for-the-Planet startet Printkampagne

Hamburgs Kreative

Leagas Delaney pflanzt mit Plant-for-the-Planet Bäume

Leagas Delaney recycelt Blätter für Plant-for-the-Planet

Lorenzo Durán unterstützt mit seiner Blätterkunst Plant-for-the-Planet

Plant-for-the-Planet ruft mit neuer Printkampagne zu Spenden auf

Cut-Art-Künstler zaubern für den Naturschutz, nachhaltig!

]]> 1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3350 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3350 Wed, 25 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Plant-for-the-Planet]]> Election of new Global Board starts 22nd March Register now and take part!

The online-voting for the Plant-for-the-Planet Global Board 2012/2013 starts on the 22nd March!

Starting this year for the first time, there will be two Global Boards: one for the Children’s Initiative, for children aged from 8 to 14 and one for the Youth Initiative, for young people aged from 15 to 21 years. Together they will represent the Plant-for-the-Planet Initiative, which invites everyone around the world to become a member.

In each of the Global Boards there will be 14 members who represent the different world regions.

Be part of it and vote for your representatives! Or take even more responsibility and apply for the Global Board!

Want to vote?


If you are between 8 and 21 years old, register now as a voter! Send an email to members@plant-for-the-planet.org and fill in the following data:

Gender: Male/Female

First name:

Surname:

Date of Birth: DD.MM.YYYY

Email-address:

Street and number:

Postal code and Place:

Country:



Want to apply for the Global Board?


Do you want to deepen your involvement with Plant-for-the-Planet?
Do you want to take extensive action to fight the climate crisis?
Do you want to inspire children worldwide and represent their interests?
--> Then apply for the Plant-for-the-Planet Global Board 2012/2013!

Requirements:

- high level of motivation to lobby for climate justice
- take joy in inspiring children and youth
- aged between 8 to 14 (Children’s Global Board) or from 15 to 21 years (Youth Global Board) as of the 1st of July 2012
- available between the 1st of July 2012 and 30th of June 2013 for the monthly board meetings of the Global Board via the Internet
- good level of English to participate actively in the monthly sessions of the Global Board
- One adult coordinator (e.g. a parent) to support you in your activities

Then register now as candidate for the Global Board! Send us an Email at members@plant-for-the-planet.org. Simply tell us that you want to apply and fill in the following data:

Gender: Male/Female

First name:

Surname:

Date of Birth: DD.MM.YYYY

Email-address:

Street and number:

Postal code and Place:

Country:


Global Board Election Time Process:


From 22nd March: Presentation of the candidates on www.plant-for-the-planet.org and start of the online-voting.

22nd April: Presentation of the Global Board election results. Start of the one month-long online-voting for the Global President and Vice-President.

22nd June: Presentation of the President and Vice-President election result.

The current Global Board members can be seen here.



]]> http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/27/Prev_global_board_plant-for-the-planet_20110328_teaser.JPG Register now and take part!
Starting this year for the first time, there will be two Global Boards: one for the Children’s Initiative, for children aged from 8 to 14 and one for the Youth Initiative, for young people aged from 15 to 21 years. Together they will represent the Plant-for-the-Planet Initiative, which invites everyone around the world to become a member.

In each of the Global Boards there will be 14 members who represent the different world regions.

Be part of it and vote for your representatives! Or take even more responsibility and apply for the Global Board!

Want to vote?


If you are between 8 and 21 years old, register now as a voter! Send an email to members@plant-for-the-planet.org and fill in the following data:

Gender: Male/Female

First name:

Surname:

Date of Birth: DD.MM.YYYY

Email-address:

Street and number:

Postal code and Place:

Country:



Want to apply for the Global Board?


Do you want to deepen your involvement with Plant-for-the-Planet?
Do you want to take extensive action to fight the climate crisis?
Do you want to inspire children worldwide and represent their interests?
--> Then apply for the Plant-for-the-Planet Global Board 2012/2013!

Requirements:

- high level of motivation to lobby for climate justice
- take joy in inspiring children and youth
- aged between 8 to 14 (Children’s Global Board) or from 15 to 21 years (Youth Global Board) as of the 1st of July 2012
- available between the 1st of July 2012 and 30th of June 2013 for the monthly board meetings of the Global Board via the Internet
- good level of English to participate actively in the monthly sessions of the Global Board
- One adult coordinator (e.g. a parent) to support you in your activities

Then register now as candidate for the Global Board! Send us an Email at members@plant-for-the-planet.org. Simply tell us that you want to apply and fill in the following data:

Gender: Male/Female

First name:

Surname:

Date of Birth: DD.MM.YYYY

Email-address:

Street and number:

Postal code and Place:

Country:


Global Board Election Time Process:


From 22nd March: Presentation of the candidates on www.plant-for-the-planet.org and start of the online-voting.

22nd April: Presentation of the Global Board election results. Start of the one month-long online-voting for the Global President and Vice-President.

22nd June: Presentation of the President and Vice-President election result.

The current Global Board members can be seen here.



]]> 1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3343 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3343 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Plant-for-the-Planet]]> Press Room The Initiative in the media

Plant-for-the-Planet

Teaser image: Pixelio, Rainer Sturm


]]> http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/24/Prev_pressespiegel_pixelio_rainer_sturm.JPG The Initiative in the media
  • 13.01.2012 - www.mainpost.de:
    Hochschultage für Nachhaltigkeit ab Donnerstag
     
  • 11.01.2012 - www.green-friday.de:
    Weltrettungsmasterplan 1: Radermacher & ökosoziale Marktwirtschaft
     

    • Plant-for-the-Planet

    Teaser image: Pixelio, Rainer Sturm


    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3342 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3342 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan intern]]>     Open Letter to Angela Merkel, Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany By Zeki Ergas

    Dear Ms. Merkel,  

    I truly believe that Germany can, presently, significantly  help to achieve two extraordinarily important and interrelated goals: maintaining peace on the planet and building a better and sustainable world.
    You might legitimately ask: why Germany? And not the United States? Or the 'emerging' great powers of Brazil, Russia, India and China (the so-called BRICs)?

    To be sure, the United States is the biggest economy and the mightiest nation on earth, and the four 'emerging' powers mentioned above are, on the whole and for various reasons, more influential than Germany in world affairs.
    But also, the United States is primarily an empire defending its interests, and, with the partial exception of Brazil, which  plays a leading role in Latin America, and Russia, whose influence in Central Asia and in the Middle East is undeniable, the four BRICs are more concerned about internal matters, such as promoting economic growth and  maximizing per cap income.
    That leaves Europe as a potential, but not actual, major player, or actor, in the world. Potential, but not actual, because the present-day Europe is divided, and going through a massive financial crisis, when what is needed is a strong and well-integrated Europe. That Europe, let us have the courage of saying it loud and clear, has to be: the United States of Europe, which does not exist for the time being.
    So, it must be built.

    As the biggest European economy, a flourishing democracy,  the country in Europe that has by far the healthiest finances, and for historical reasons, Germany has to be - with the help of France and other countries - at the forefront, or cutting edge, of the efforts to create, as rapidly as possible, in fifteen years at the latest, the United States of Europe which  has become, owing to the relative rise of the East, and the concomitant decline of the West, an unquestionable necessity.

    The US has recently decided to shift its primary geopolitical focus to the Asia-Pacific region. That shift carries, between the US and China, a significant risk of confrontation that could degenerate into violent conflict, and the nightmarish scenario of a third world war pitting East against West cannot be entirely excluded.

    An independent and politically, economically and diplomatically powerful United States of Europe could act effectively to prevent  that apocalyptic catastrophe from occurring. After all, Europe, being the continent that gave birth to United States, has the strongest affinities with it: the United States of America would 'listen' to the United States of Europe.

    So, Dear Ms. Merkel, this is one of the two reasons I took the liberty of writing to you: Germany, helping the creation of a strong and politically united Europe, can contribute effectively to the maintenance of peace on our planet.
    But there is a second reason which is equally, if not more, important: I am convinced - partly owing to my long association with the Global Marshall Plan Initiative, an international German NGO - that Germany can also play a significant role in the building of a better and sustainable world. Please allow me to briefly explain. 

    At this start of 2012, the Western world has been, for three years at least, in the clutches of a serious economic and financial crisis, which has caused tens of millions of people to lose their jobs, houses and, more importantly, hopes for a better future. There has been a lot of discussion about what to do to: how to promote GDP growth, reduce large budgetary deficits, increase employment, raise per cap income, and so on. These are all legitimate subjects as long as the problem is indeed a serious economic and financial crisis.

    But is it really? What if it is not? What if the world is experiencing something deeper and more comprehensive? What if the world is experiencing a Crisis of Civilization that has economic, political, ecological, cultural, moral, ethical and philosophical dimensions?
    To the extent that that is true, and I strongly believe that it is, and I am far from being the only one, efforts to build a better and sustainable world will involve simultaneously dealing with the negative aspects of the old system (or paradigm), and introducing the positive elements of the new system.
    Among the former are, as you well know, inter alia: global warming, nuclear proliferation, militarization, inequality, poverty, speculation, corruption, greed, hypocrisy and (especially in the United States) the deterioration of democracy by money in politics.
    The latter include: privileging quality over quantity, giving the heart equal status with reason, replacing GDP growth and per cap income by well-being and happiness, sharing more equally vital energetic and natural resources, putting the needs of society as a whole before those of individuals, outlawing war - like slavery in the 19th century-, establishing peace as an enforceable universal human right, and prioritizing solidarity and cooperation.            
    Dear Ms. Merkel, I believe that Germany has, presently, an extraordinary opportunity to make a significant contribution to these two essential and overarching goals that I wrote about in this letter. I am sure you will not want to miss it.

    Yours sincerely,

    Zeki Ergas
    zeki.ergas@netplus.ch
    www.penromand.ch

      

     

    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_100117-merkel-192x134.JPG By Zeki Ergas
    I truly believe that Germany can, presently, significantly  help to achieve two extraordinarily important and interrelated goals: maintaining peace on the planet and building a better and sustainable world.
    You might legitimately ask: why Germany? And not the United States? Or the 'emerging' great powers of Brazil, Russia, India and China (the so-called BRICs)?

    To be sure, the United States is the biggest economy and the mightiest nation on earth, and the four 'emerging' powers mentioned above are, on the whole and for various reasons, more influential than Germany in world affairs.
    But also, the United States is primarily an empire defending its interests, and, with the partial exception of Brazil, which  plays a leading role in Latin America, and Russia, whose influence in Central Asia and in the Middle East is undeniable, the four BRICs are more concerned about internal matters, such as promoting economic growth and  maximizing per cap income.
    That leaves Europe as a potential, but not actual, major player, or actor, in the world. Potential, but not actual, because the present-day Europe is divided, and going through a massive financial crisis, when what is needed is a strong and well-integrated Europe. That Europe, let us have the courage of saying it loud and clear, has to be: the United States of Europe, which does not exist for the time being.
    So, it must be built.

    As the biggest European economy, a flourishing democracy,  the country in Europe that has by far the healthiest finances, and for historical reasons, Germany has to be - with the help of France and other countries - at the forefront, or cutting edge, of the efforts to create, as rapidly as possible, in fifteen years at the latest, the United States of Europe which  has become, owing to the relative rise of the East, and the concomitant decline of the West, an unquestionable necessity.

    The US has recently decided to shift its primary geopolitical focus to the Asia-Pacific region. That shift carries, between the US and China, a significant risk of confrontation that could degenerate into violent conflict, and the nightmarish scenario of a third world war pitting East against West cannot be entirely excluded.

    An independent and politically, economically and diplomatically powerful United States of Europe could act effectively to prevent  that apocalyptic catastrophe from occurring. After all, Europe, being the continent that gave birth to United States, has the strongest affinities with it: the United States of America would 'listen' to the United States of Europe.

    So, Dear Ms. Merkel, this is one of the two reasons I took the liberty of writing to you: Germany, helping the creation of a strong and politically united Europe, can contribute effectively to the maintenance of peace on our planet.
    But there is a second reason which is equally, if not more, important: I am convinced - partly owing to my long association with the Global Marshall Plan Initiative, an international German NGO - that Germany can also play a significant role in the building of a better and sustainable world. Please allow me to briefly explain. 

    At this start of 2012, the Western world has been, for three years at least, in the clutches of a serious economic and financial crisis, which has caused tens of millions of people to lose their jobs, houses and, more importantly, hopes for a better future. There has been a lot of discussion about what to do to: how to promote GDP growth, reduce large budgetary deficits, increase employment, raise per cap income, and so on. These are all legitimate subjects as long as the problem is indeed a serious economic and financial crisis.

    But is it really? What if it is not? What if the world is experiencing something deeper and more comprehensive? What if the world is experiencing a Crisis of Civilization that has economic, political, ecological, cultural, moral, ethical and philosophical dimensions?
    To the extent that that is true, and I strongly believe that it is, and I am far from being the only one, efforts to build a better and sustainable world will involve simultaneously dealing with the negative aspects of the old system (or paradigm), and introducing the positive elements of the new system.
    Among the former are, as you well know, inter alia: global warming, nuclear proliferation, militarization, inequality, poverty, speculation, corruption, greed, hypocrisy and (especially in the United States) the deterioration of democracy by money in politics.
    The latter include: privileging quality over quantity, giving the heart equal status with reason, replacing GDP growth and per cap income by well-being and happiness, sharing more equally vital energetic and natural resources, putting the needs of society as a whole before those of individuals, outlawing war - like slavery in the 19th century-, establishing peace as an enforceable universal human right, and prioritizing solidarity and cooperation.            
    Dear Ms. Merkel, I believe that Germany has, presently, an extraordinary opportunity to make a significant contribution to these two essential and overarching goals that I wrote about in this letter. I am sure you will not want to miss it.

    Yours sincerely,

    Zeki Ergas
    zeki.ergas@netplus.ch
    www.penromand.ch

      

     

    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3341 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3341 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     2012 International Year of Sustainable Energy for All The United Nations declare 2012 International Year of Sustainable Energy for All (SE4All)

    UN Secretary Ban Ki Moon proclaimed 2012 the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All (SE4All) at the World Future Energy Summit, following the Second Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

    The Second Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) took place in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) from the 14th to 15th January 2012. Attended by representatives from more than 150 states, it was decided that the organisation’s total budget for 2012 will be increased to around 28.4 million US dollars.

    Last year Germany contributed 4 million US dollars to the IRENA Innovation and Technology Centre (IITC) in Bonn, and news that Chinese prime minster, Wen Jiabao, is keen to join, highlights the organisation’s growing importance.

    Following the Second Assembly, the World Future Energy Summit was held in Abu Dhabi from the 16th to 19th January 2012. With the Chinese prime minister Wen Jiabo, numerous energy ministers and over 26,000 visitors and 3000 delegates from around 140 countries attending the summit, the 2012 International Year of Sustainable Energy for All served as an important starting point. By 2030 the UN initiative aims to ensure universal access to modern energy services and double the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.  

    (Source: Sonnenseite. Image source: World Future Energy Summit)


    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_Sustainable_Energy_for_all.JPG The United Nations declare 2012 International Year of Sustainable Energy for All (SE4All) UN Secretary Ban Ki Moon proclaimed 2012 the International Year of Sustainable Energy for All (SE4All) at the World Future Energy Summit, following the Second Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

    The Second Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) took place in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) from the 14th to 15th January 2012. Attended by representatives from more than 150 states, it was decided that the organisation’s total budget for 2012 will be increased to around 28.4 million US dollars.

    Last year Germany contributed 4 million US dollars to the IRENA Innovation and Technology Centre (IITC) in Bonn, and news that Chinese prime minster, Wen Jiabao, is keen to join, highlights the organisation’s growing importance.

    Following the Second Assembly, the World Future Energy Summit was held in Abu Dhabi from the 16th to 19th January 2012. With the Chinese prime minister Wen Jiabo, numerous energy ministers and over 26,000 visitors and 3000 delegates from around 140 countries attending the summit, the 2012 International Year of Sustainable Energy for All served as an important starting point. By 2030 the UN initiative aims to ensure universal access to modern energy services and double the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix.  

    (Source: Sonnenseite. Image source: World Future Energy Summit)


    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3338 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3338 Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     Global Marshall Plan on Radio and One-Week Event to Encourage Sustainable Thinking The Global Marshall Plan Group of Karlsruhe reports

    On the 8th December, Andreas Gutzan, member of the Karlsruhe University’s Global Marshall Plan group, was a guest on Karlsruhe’s campus radio station “Radio KIT”. 

    “Exam pressure and modular curriculums make learning like an obstacle course; you’ve got to stay damn on the ball, so that nothing cracks. Since it is already anything but mundane, it means a huge commitment if/when undergrads campaign for a common good. Because oft hat, the local University radio station of Karslruhe wants to call attention towards these dedicated students by the new collum „Engagier Dich!“ (Commit yourself)."

    Because of the various exciting events organized, the reporters of KIT Radio decided to present the local Global Marshall Plan student group. That was convenient, because the student group organized in the same week various events under the titel “Nachhaltiges Denken” (Sustainable Thinking). Listen to the podcast here (German).

    As already mentioned, from the 5th to the 9th of December, Karlsruhe’s local group made use of the pre-Christmas atmosphere and encouraged the city’s inhabitants to think about sustainability. Under the title Nachhaltiges Denken (sustainable thinking), the student group organized an exciting week of awareness-raising events.

    The rooms were always packed with students of various disciplines, local citizens, and people from across the world ranging in ages. The topics addressed also displayed a certain balance: Out of environment, politics, economic and technique – the themes attracted people throughout the week.
    First, there was a lecture about Land Grabbing, the phenomenon of the New Land – and Agriculture Investments in Africa, a global ecological and ethical discourse. Furthermore Götz Werner, anthrophosoph and founder of a huge enterprise, spoke about the unconditional basic income. Moreover, there were lectures about mini-hydroelectric plants at the Amazonas and the Carbon Footprint of the energy branches.


    To give the participants a balance between input and output, a common Save the World- evening has been organized at the local University’s student center, allowing time and room for discussions. The week concluded in a screening of the movie Let's Make Money, an economic-critical production, supporting the participants with further impulses. Altogether, the group was very satisfied with the event; the huge demand mirrored in the numbers of visitors, as well as established cooperations.

    Here you can find more about Karlsruhe’s local group. 

    (Picture source: Facebook-Page of the local group of Karlsruhe, Radio KIT)

    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_eventwoche_karlsruhe_tafel.JPG The Global Marshall Plan Group of Karlsruhe reports On the 8th December, Andreas Gutzan, member of the Karlsruhe University’s Global Marshall Plan group, was a guest on Karlsruhe’s campus radio station “Radio KIT”. 

    “Exam pressure and modular curriculums make learning like an obstacle course; you’ve got to stay damn on the ball, so that nothing cracks. Since it is already anything but mundane, it means a huge commitment if/when undergrads campaign for a common good. Because oft hat, the local University radio station of Karslruhe wants to call attention towards these dedicated students by the new collum „Engagier Dich!“ (Commit yourself)."

    Because of the various exciting events organized, the reporters of KIT Radio decided to present the local Global Marshall Plan student group. That was convenient, because the student group organized in the same week various events under the titel “Nachhaltiges Denken” (Sustainable Thinking). Listen to the podcast here (German).

    As already mentioned, from the 5th to the 9th of December, Karlsruhe’s local group made use of the pre-Christmas atmosphere and encouraged the city’s inhabitants to think about sustainability. Under the title Nachhaltiges Denken (sustainable thinking), the student group organized an exciting week of awareness-raising events.

    The rooms were always packed with students of various disciplines, local citizens, and people from across the world ranging in ages. The topics addressed also displayed a certain balance: Out of environment, politics, economic and technique – the themes attracted people throughout the week.
    First, there was a lecture about Land Grabbing, the phenomenon of the New Land – and Agriculture Investments in Africa, a global ecological and ethical discourse. Furthermore Götz Werner, anthrophosoph and founder of a huge enterprise, spoke about the unconditional basic income. Moreover, there were lectures about mini-hydroelectric plants at the Amazonas and the Carbon Footprint of the energy branches.


    To give the participants a balance between input and output, a common Save the World- evening has been organized at the local University’s student center, allowing time and room for discussions. The week concluded in a screening of the movie Let's Make Money, an economic-critical production, supporting the participants with further impulses. Altogether, the group was very satisfied with the event; the huge demand mirrored in the numbers of visitors, as well as established cooperations.

    Here you can find more about Karlsruhe’s local group. 

    (Picture source: Facebook-Page of the local group of Karlsruhe, Radio KIT)

    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3334 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3334 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     Everyone has the Opportunity to Add their own Competencies Get to know the Initiative on a local level invitations from Nuremberg, Frankfurt and Duesseldorf

    Thanks to the commitment of local groups and the lectures and events they organise, slowly but surely more and more people and other groups are getting informed about and having their awareness raised on global imbalances and the necessity and possibility of eco social frameworks. As an integrative platform, the Initiative invites all interested people to get involved. Everyone has the opportunity to add their own competencies. What’s more right at the beginning of 2012, there will be some exciting possibilities to broaden your horizons and get to know the Global Marshall Plan Initiative on a local level.

    The following invitations are great examples, because all the groups meet on a regular basis and are looking forward to meeting new interested fellow campaigners. Visit the local group’s area on our Website and check out when your local group is next meeting !

    Opening Event of the Local Group of Frankfurt, January 23rd, 7:30pm

    In Frankfurt, the newly-established local group looks for further members by offering a lecture and subsequent discussion. For the New Year’s opening, the local group has invited Stefan Otto, a journalist who specialises in economics, to speak about the topic “World with a future” – Paths towards an equitable globalization by means of the eco-social market economy. Anyone who wants to do more than just separate garbage is highly recommended to participate in this event. Afterwards, the participants will have the chance to network and exchange own ideas. You can find more here (German). If you are interested in joining, contact the group at rhein-main@globalmarshallplan.org.


    Local group meeting in Düsseldorf, 1st February 2012

    The group looks forward to their two upcoming events. People who are interested in active support are very welcome!

    For the 24th of February, they are organizing a screening of the film Die Biosprit-Lüge (the bioful lie) with a discussion afterwards. Furthermore, under the title Sind wir wirklich noch zu retten? - Konzepte für eine Zukunft (Are we still to the rescue? – Concepts for a future), on the 6th of March, Niko Paech, professor of economics and economics reviewer, will explain why magical expansion has no future and how development fails at the urge of growth. After his presentation, there will be a panel discussion. You can find more about it here (in German). At www.netzwerk-oese.de (German) you can find the Website of the group as well as further information about the meeting.

    Local meeting in Nuernberg, at the 7th of Februray 2012, 7:30 pm

    The local group of Nürnberg also encourages all those interested to come along to their meeting. An exchange about past activities, upcoming events and the group’s participations, as well as discussions about current developments concerning sustainability and eco-social market economy are on the agenda for the meeting. If you are interested, contact Manuela Forster at manuelaforster@web.de. .

    *** If you are interested in organising projects and events to raise awareness, or if you are interested in engaging with a local group in your region, just contact Gisela Wohlfahrt at the coordination office of the Initiative via E-Mail. ***

    (Image source: www.netzwerk-oese.de)

    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_lokalgruppen_de.JPG Get to know the Initiative on a local level invitations from Nuremberg, Frankfurt and Duesseldorf Thanks to the commitment of local groups and the lectures and events they organise, slowly but surely more and more people and other groups are getting informed about and having their awareness raised on global imbalances and the necessity and possibility of eco social frameworks. As an integrative platform, the Initiative invites all interested people to get involved. Everyone has the opportunity to add their own competencies. What’s more right at the beginning of 2012, there will be some exciting possibilities to broaden your horizons and get to know the Global Marshall Plan Initiative on a local level.

    The following invitations are great examples, because all the groups meet on a regular basis and are looking forward to meeting new interested fellow campaigners. Visit the local group’s area on our Website and check out when your local group is next meeting !

    Opening Event of the Local Group of Frankfurt, January 23rd, 7:30pm

    In Frankfurt, the newly-established local group looks for further members by offering a lecture and subsequent discussion. For the New Year’s opening, the local group has invited Stefan Otto, a journalist who specialises in economics, to speak about the topic “World with a future” – Paths towards an equitable globalization by means of the eco-social market economy. Anyone who wants to do more than just separate garbage is highly recommended to participate in this event. Afterwards, the participants will have the chance to network and exchange own ideas. You can find more here (German). If you are interested in joining, contact the group at rhein-main@globalmarshallplan.org.


    Local group meeting in Düsseldorf, 1st February 2012

    The group looks forward to their two upcoming events. People who are interested in active support are very welcome!

    For the 24th of February, they are organizing a screening of the film Die Biosprit-Lüge (the bioful lie) with a discussion afterwards. Furthermore, under the title Sind wir wirklich noch zu retten? - Konzepte für eine Zukunft (Are we still to the rescue? – Concepts for a future), on the 6th of March, Niko Paech, professor of economics and economics reviewer, will explain why magical expansion has no future and how development fails at the urge of growth. After his presentation, there will be a panel discussion. You can find more about it here (in German). At www.netzwerk-oese.de (German) you can find the Website of the group as well as further information about the meeting.

    Local meeting in Nuernberg, at the 7th of Februray 2012, 7:30 pm

    The local group of Nürnberg also encourages all those interested to come along to their meeting. An exchange about past activities, upcoming events and the group’s participations, as well as discussions about current developments concerning sustainability and eco-social market economy are on the agenda for the meeting. If you are interested, contact Manuela Forster at manuelaforster@web.de. .

    *** If you are interested in organising projects and events to raise awareness, or if you are interested in engaging with a local group in your region, just contact Gisela Wohlfahrt at the coordination office of the Initiative via E-Mail. ***

    (Image source: www.netzwerk-oese.de)

    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3333 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3333 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     Damaging Earthquakes Database 2011: The Year in Review 2011 witnessed the Most Loss-Making Earthquake of all Time

    2011 saw the largest two earthquakes, economically speaking, in the history Japan and New Zealand. The M9.0 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami that occurred on 11th March 2011 became the most expensive earthquake ever to occur, resulting in $400-700 billion USD in total losses and causing approximately 19000 deaths. Whilst in Christchurch, New Zealand, the M6.3 earthquake cost around $15-20 billion USD in damages.

    Other catastrophic and costly earthquakes were suffered in Turkey in October, in the India-Nepal-Tibet region in September, in China in the Yunnan and Xinjiang provinces and in the USA.

    The CATDAT Yearly Review of Damaging Earthquakes in 2011 presents the socio-economic effects of the year’s most damaging earthquakes, and uses information from a database that the University of Adelaide has built up since 2003, through collecting earthquake, flood and other natural disaster loss data. The 2011 report showcases the work that CATDAT, in collaboration with earthquake-report.com/SOS Earthquakes, is doing.

    Read the CATDAT Damaging Earthquakes Database 2011 – The Year in Review here.

    (Images source: www.cedim.de)

    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_tsunami.JPG 2011 witnessed the Most Loss-Making Earthquake of all Time 2011 saw the largest two earthquakes, economically speaking, in the history Japan and New Zealand. The M9.0 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami that occurred on 11th March 2011 became the most expensive earthquake ever to occur, resulting in $400-700 billion USD in total losses and causing approximately 19000 deaths. Whilst in Christchurch, New Zealand, the M6.3 earthquake cost around $15-20 billion USD in damages.

    Other catastrophic and costly earthquakes were suffered in Turkey in October, in the India-Nepal-Tibet region in September, in China in the Yunnan and Xinjiang provinces and in the USA.

    The CATDAT Yearly Review of Damaging Earthquakes in 2011 presents the socio-economic effects of the year’s most damaging earthquakes, and uses information from a database that the University of Adelaide has built up since 2003, through collecting earthquake, flood and other natural disaster loss data. The 2011 report showcases the work that CATDAT, in collaboration with earthquake-report.com/SOS Earthquakes, is doing.

    Read the CATDAT Damaging Earthquakes Database 2011 – The Year in Review here.

    (Images source: www.cedim.de)

    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3332 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3332 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     World Economic Situation and Prospects 2012 DESA releases Flagship Report on World Economy: Economic Slowdown to continue

    This week the DESA, the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, has released its flagship report on the world economy, World Economic Situation and Prospects. The report predicts economic slowdown to continue into 2012 and 2013 and gives the United Nations baseline forecast for the growth of world gross product (WGP) as 2.6 per cent for 2012 and 3.2 per cent for 2013, a rate below the pre-crisis pace of global growth.

    The DESA attributes this to the failure of developed countries to respond to unemployment and debt, as seen in the example of the USA and the euro zone. It expects the economies of developing countries to grow by an average of 5.4 per cent in 2012 and 5.8 per cent in 2013, with countries such as India and China continuing to expand.

    The report also proposes several policy directions to prevent a double-dip recession.

    Read the full report here.


    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_prospects_world_economic_201201.JPG DESA releases Flagship Report on World Economy: Economic Slowdown to continue This week the DESA, the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, has released its flagship report on the world economy, World Economic Situation and Prospects. The report predicts economic slowdown to continue into 2012 and 2013 and gives the United Nations baseline forecast for the growth of world gross product (WGP) as 2.6 per cent for 2012 and 3.2 per cent for 2013, a rate below the pre-crisis pace of global growth.

    The DESA attributes this to the failure of developed countries to respond to unemployment and debt, as seen in the example of the USA and the euro zone. It expects the economies of developing countries to grow by an average of 5.4 per cent in 2012 and 5.8 per cent in 2013, with countries such as India and China continuing to expand.

    The report also proposes several policy directions to prevent a double-dip recession.

    Read the full report here.


    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3331 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3331 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     Climate Change Measures with Health and Agricultural Benefits New Research identifies 14 Air Pollution Control Measures that could slow down Global Warming, save millions of Lives and increase Agricultural Production Crop Yields.

    Published in journal Science, a new study led by Drew Shindell of NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS), examined around 400 control measures based on proven technology. After analysing the measures, whose effects are recorded in the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) GAINS model, they selected the 14 that would have the greatest environmental benefit. As well as lessening the effects of climate change, reducing emissions, such as black carbon and methane, which harm both human and plant health, has, what Shidell labels, “win-win” benefits.

    Scientists discovered the measures would give Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Russia the greatest protection against global warming; Bangladesh, Nepal and India the biggest reductions in premature deaths; Iran, Pakistan and Jordan most improvement in agricultural production and southern Asia and the Sahel region of Africa the most beneficial changes to precipitation patterns. However since black carbon and methane are emitted from many sources, multiple infrastructure upgrades are required to implement the methods.

    Shindell points out that many countries obviously prioritise public health and food supplies over climate change action, but knowing these measures also have environmental benefits may motivate such countries to implement them.

    Read the full article here or download the paper here.

    (Image source: fotolia)

    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_climate_change.JPG New Research identifies 14 Air Pollution Control Measures that could slow down Global Warming, save millions of Lives and increase Agricultural Production Crop Yields. Published in journal Science, a new study led by Drew Shindell of NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS), examined around 400 control measures based on proven technology. After analysing the measures, whose effects are recorded in the International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA) GAINS model, they selected the 14 that would have the greatest environmental benefit. As well as lessening the effects of climate change, reducing emissions, such as black carbon and methane, which harm both human and plant health, has, what Shidell labels, “win-win” benefits.

    Scientists discovered the measures would give Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan and Russia the greatest protection against global warming; Bangladesh, Nepal and India the biggest reductions in premature deaths; Iran, Pakistan and Jordan most improvement in agricultural production and southern Asia and the Sahel region of Africa the most beneficial changes to precipitation patterns. However since black carbon and methane are emitted from many sources, multiple infrastructure upgrades are required to implement the methods.

    Shindell points out that many countries obviously prioritise public health and food supplies over climate change action, but knowing these measures also have environmental benefits may motivate such countries to implement them.

    Read the full article here or download the paper here.

    (Image source: fotolia)

    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3330 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3330 Fri, 20 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     Animals Cannot Adapt to Temperature Increases Study shows birds and butterflies threatened by climate change

    Birds and butterflies are suffering from climate change, a new study shows. In the last two decades, the global temperature has increased faster than animals have been able to adapt, causing many to slowly migrate north for their necessary temperature requirements.

    Oliver Schweiger from the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) warns, “some species of butterfly could become extinct due to climate change. Most species will not completely die out, only in certain regions.”

    The international study provides the first evidence that climate change is causing a considerable shift in the habitats and communities of animals. Analysing data collected from volunteer monitoring networks, the scientists found that on average butterflies are travelling 135km north to build nests and birds 212km.

    The study has also indicates that the gap between the two groups is widening. Furthermore when analysing each country individually, the results vary greatly, with the average temperature of the habitat of birds in Sweden increasing significantly, while hardly changing at all in the Czech Republic. There has been little shift in the average temperature of butterflies’ habitat in Great Britain, yet scientists note a drastic hike in temperature in the Netherlands.

    The results are especially alarming as birds and butterflies are one of the most widespread and mobile groups of animals and scientists warn that the more specialised a species, the more threatened by the shift.

    (Source: UmweltDialog)

    (Image sources: UmweltDialog; Digital Photography School)

    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_bird-photography.JPG Study shows birds and butterflies threatened by climate change Birds and butterflies are suffering from climate change, a new study shows. In the last two decades, the global temperature has increased faster than animals have been able to adapt, causing many to slowly migrate north for their necessary temperature requirements.

    Oliver Schweiger from the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ) warns, “some species of butterfly could become extinct due to climate change. Most species will not completely die out, only in certain regions.”

    The international study provides the first evidence that climate change is causing a considerable shift in the habitats and communities of animals. Analysing data collected from volunteer monitoring networks, the scientists found that on average butterflies are travelling 135km north to build nests and birds 212km.

    The study has also indicates that the gap between the two groups is widening. Furthermore when analysing each country individually, the results vary greatly, with the average temperature of the habitat of birds in Sweden increasing significantly, while hardly changing at all in the Czech Republic. There has been little shift in the average temperature of butterflies’ habitat in Great Britain, yet scientists note a drastic hike in temperature in the Netherlands.

    The results are especially alarming as birds and butterflies are one of the most widespread and mobile groups of animals and scientists warn that the more specialised a species, the more threatened by the shift.

    (Source: UmweltDialog)

    (Image sources: UmweltDialog; Digital Photography School)

    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3329 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3329 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     Collective Intelligence: The Way out of the Crisis? Article from Elke Esders, Professional Coach in Brussels and Supporter of the Global Marshall Plan Initiative

    Elke Esders, qualified political scientist, has been working as a Political Adviser to the European Parliament for twenty years. Moreover she works as a freelance coach, partner at RobinsonHenry and is an official supporter of the Global Marshall Plan Initiative. With her present text, she provides the third article in our new series.

    Collective intelligence: the Way out of the Crisis?

    "Times of crisis set forces in motion that can lead to astounding results. To which I would like to cite the following two national meetings: the National Assembly, also known as the “Anthill”, in Iceland in November 2009 and the “G1000 Summit” in Belgium in November 2011.  

    Characterising these examples of national citizen movements are the following: a high degree of self-organisation and professionalism; preparing relevant studies in advance to ensure the population is represented; a will to generate diversity of opinion to best find a way out of the crisis and learn from one another on a global level; a reliance on participatory group work methods and appropriately trained coaches and group leaders; and offering to cooperate on policies rather than protesting and thus only minor press coverage due to a rather “soft” approach.

    How politics accepts these offers of cooperation remains to be seen. But by all means, a seed for change has been placed through these national movements.
     
    How can involving all possible opinions work out without ending in argument and chaos? Where do we end up when everyone has a say? We’d never make any decisions! Well, apparently so!
    Let’s examine the criteria for success to getting results from a greater diversity of opinion…”

    Read the full article by Elke Esders here.

    ***Above all the Initiative lives for the enthusiasm of its supporters and their willingness to contribute their own core skills. Individuals, groups and organisations act within the realms of possibility for the implementation of common needs. Our Initiative’s newsletter, received by more than 10,000 interested individuals each month, publicises activities, projects and content from our network, thus serving as mouthpiece for the Initiative.***







    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_esders_elke.JPG Article from Elke Esders, Professional Coach in Brussels and Supporter of the Global Marshall Plan Initiative Elke Esders, qualified political scientist, has been working as a Political Adviser to the European Parliament for twenty years. Moreover she works as a freelance coach, partner at RobinsonHenry and is an official supporter of the Global Marshall Plan Initiative. With her present text, she provides the third article in our new series.

    Collective intelligence: the Way out of the Crisis?

    "Times of crisis set forces in motion that can lead to astounding results. To which I would like to cite the following two national meetings: the National Assembly, also known as the “Anthill”, in Iceland in November 2009 and the “G1000 Summit” in Belgium in November 2011.  

    Characterising these examples of national citizen movements are the following: a high degree of self-organisation and professionalism; preparing relevant studies in advance to ensure the population is represented; a will to generate diversity of opinion to best find a way out of the crisis and learn from one another on a global level; a reliance on participatory group work methods and appropriately trained coaches and group leaders; and offering to cooperate on policies rather than protesting and thus only minor press coverage due to a rather “soft” approach.

    How politics accepts these offers of cooperation remains to be seen. But by all means, a seed for change has been placed through these national movements.
     
    How can involving all possible opinions work out without ending in argument and chaos? Where do we end up when everyone has a say? We’d never make any decisions! Well, apparently so!
    Let’s examine the criteria for success to getting results from a greater diversity of opinion…”

    Read the full article by Elke Esders here.

    ***Above all the Initiative lives for the enthusiasm of its supporters and their willingness to contribute their own core skills. Individuals, groups and organisations act within the realms of possibility for the implementation of common needs. Our Initiative’s newsletter, received by more than 10,000 interested individuals each month, publicises activities, projects and content from our network, thus serving as mouthpiece for the Initiative.***







    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3328 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3328 Thu, 19 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     What are our Goals for 2012? Coordination Circle ask for Input and Discussion

    Just a few days ago the first anniversary of the revolution in Tunisia was celebrated. Facebook cofounder, Sean Parker, said in January 2011 “people are connected like never before. We only just beginning to understand how much power every one of us is equipped with.” Considered retrospectively, everyone is aware of the implications of his words – the upheaval lead to the “Arab Spring” and prompted the Occupy Movement and worldwide “outrage”. In the mean time, people rise up everywhere, informing about injustices and connecting with global actions, all working towards the much citied “tipping point”, the point at which the critical number is reached and the system toppled.  

    Our initiative also is working towards a change in the system – a worldwide eco-social market economy. Through information and identifying alternatives, we carry out important lobby work for a World in Balance. At our joint annual meeting, we discussed the most important issues and triggers for the coming months. One theme was the question “what comes after the crisis?!”.

    In November, at the invitation of the coordination committee, various information providers with well-developed research papers met to address the financial crisis. Here you can find the extensive paper by Herrn Professor Radermacher and other participants, and a somewhat shorter paper with cartoons illustrated by Herrn Dr. Solte can be found here (German). We will continue to work on this coordination’s process.   

    For the coming year the coordination office and committee invite all supporters to share any suggestions on which topics the initiative should address in 2012? What are the issues 20 years after the conference on sustainability in Rio and 40 years after the publication of “The Limits of Growth”? Discuss your ideas and plans for 2012 with another supporters on Facebook or write us an E-Mail. What should the Global Marshall Plan Initiative look like in 2012? What should be done and how do we want to bring it together?  

    We look forward to many interesting suggestions for the Initiative. Let’s join together in 2012 for a World in Balance!


    (Image sources: chart about the goals of the Initiative at the annual meeting 2011, annual meeting 2011 in Augsburg, Infostand of the local goup of Munich at the Fairena-Fair in Munich in Oktober 2011)

    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_koordinationskreis_logo_2011.JPG Coordination Circle ask for Input and Discussion Just a few days ago the first anniversary of the revolution in Tunisia was celebrated. Facebook cofounder, Sean Parker, said in January 2011 “people are connected like never before. We only just beginning to understand how much power every one of us is equipped with.” Considered retrospectively, everyone is aware of the implications of his words – the upheaval lead to the “Arab Spring” and prompted the Occupy Movement and worldwide “outrage”. In the mean time, people rise up everywhere, informing about injustices and connecting with global actions, all working towards the much citied “tipping point”, the point at which the critical number is reached and the system toppled.  

    Our initiative also is working towards a change in the system – a worldwide eco-social market economy. Through information and identifying alternatives, we carry out important lobby work for a World in Balance. At our joint annual meeting, we discussed the most important issues and triggers for the coming months. One theme was the question “what comes after the crisis?!”.

    In November, at the invitation of the coordination committee, various information providers with well-developed research papers met to address the financial crisis. Here you can find the extensive paper by Herrn Professor Radermacher and other participants, and a somewhat shorter paper with cartoons illustrated by Herrn Dr. Solte can be found here (German). We will continue to work on this coordination’s process.   

    For the coming year the coordination office and committee invite all supporters to share any suggestions on which topics the initiative should address in 2012? What are the issues 20 years after the conference on sustainability in Rio and 40 years after the publication of “The Limits of Growth”? Discuss your ideas and plans for 2012 with another supporters on Facebook or write us an E-Mail. What should the Global Marshall Plan Initiative look like in 2012? What should be done and how do we want to bring it together?  

    We look forward to many interesting suggestions for the Initiative. Let’s join together in 2012 for a World in Balance!


    (Image sources: chart about the goals of the Initiative at the annual meeting 2011, annual meeting 2011 in Augsburg, Infostand of the local goup of Munich at the Fairena-Fair in Munich in Oktober 2011)

    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3324 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3324 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     Financial Transaction Tax The Debate over the Introduction of a Financial Transaction Tax goes on

    The debate over the introduction of a financial transaction tax in the Eurozone continues. As an important potential source of funds to combat poverty in our world, we watch anxiously to see how and whether the introduction of the tax in 2012 now will go ahead. Here are the latest developments at a glace.

    The French president, Nicolas Sarkozy fuelled the debate further, when he announced he would introduce the taxes single-handily if necessary. Great Britain spoke out against the tax, if it will not be applied worldwide. German national newspaper, The Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, read Sarkozy’s behaviour as a campaign manoeuvre given the imminent presidential elections. At the same time labelling his solo effort as economic nonsense since it would involve a relocation of financial operations to other countries. Should such a shift not take place, then it only could when the tax rate fell extremely low, which would in turn make a farce of the tax. The paper concludes that Sarkozy practices “symbolic politics”.  

    The Italian paper, La Stampa, warned against Great Britian’s behaviour and the risk that the rest of the European countries would alone go it alone with the tax. British prime minister, David Cameron’s “adherence to Thatcher script’s defending the City” was heavily criticised. Apparently the more Cameron sticks to this, the more Merkel and Sarkozy’s cooperation is strengthened.

    The liberal Swiss daily paper Le Temps views the French plan, which the transaction tax alone if it came to it, as “futile”. Above all Sarkozy’s U-turn was criticised, since few years ago he was completely against the tax. However, today the relatively “old” concept of a Tobin Tax is relevant once more. Although Le Temps does not consider the tax a solution for Europe, but predicts that it will drive up the price of capital and thus damage the economy, instead calling for “coordinated and collective approach”.

    (Source: EuroTopics der Bundeszentrale für politische Bildung)

    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_finanzkrise.JPG The Debate over the Introduction of a Financial Transaction Tax goes on The debate over the introduction of a financial transaction tax in the Eurozone continues. As an important potential source of funds to combat poverty in our world, we watch anxiously to see how and whether the introduction of the tax in 2012 now will go ahead. Here are the latest developments at a glace.

    The French president, Nicolas Sarkozy fuelled the debate further, when he announced he would introduce the taxes single-handily if necessary. Great Britain spoke out against the tax, if it will not be applied worldwide. German national newspaper, The Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, read Sarkozy’s behaviour as a campaign manoeuvre given the imminent presidential elections. At the same time labelling his solo effort as economic nonsense since it would involve a relocation of financial operations to other countries. Should such a shift not take place, then it only could when the tax rate fell extremely low, which would in turn make a farce of the tax. The paper concludes that Sarkozy practices “symbolic politics”.  

    The Italian paper, La Stampa, warned against Great Britian’s behaviour and the risk that the rest of the European countries would alone go it alone with the tax. British prime minister, David Cameron’s “adherence to Thatcher script’s defending the City” was heavily criticised. Apparently the more Cameron sticks to this, the more Merkel and Sarkozy’s cooperation is strengthened.

    The liberal Swiss daily paper Le Temps views the French plan, which the transaction tax alone if it came to it, as “futile”. Above all Sarkozy’s U-turn was criticised, since few years ago he was completely against the tax. However, today the relatively “old” concept of a Tobin Tax is relevant once more. Although Le Temps does not consider the tax a solution for Europe, but predicts that it will drive up the price of capital and thus damage the economy, instead calling for “coordinated and collective approach”.

    (Source: EuroTopics der Bundeszentrale für politische Bildung)

    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3322 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3322 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     Some Interesting New Studies Get informed and clear up a few others

    Keeping track of a changing environment: From Rio to Rio+20

    A new set of statistics from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) shows the changes in the Earth’s environment in the last twenty years. The indicator report reveals the basics, highlighting the rapid build-up of more greenhouse gases, the disappearance of biodiversity and roughly a 40% increase in the use of natural resources, even faster than the global population growth rate. But the report also emphasises how dramatic and dangerous the direction we are heading in is and how certain parts of the world population could be threatened by it. 

    Click here for the full article or here to read the complete UNEP report (110 pages).

    Essential Interventions, Commodities and Guidelines for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Child Health

    How can a country with a very limited health budget mostly efficiently fight against infant and maternal mortality? Which measures have been particularly proven in recent years? The study released last week from the World Heath Organisation (WHO), the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Heath (PMNCH) and the international Aga Khan University entitled “Essential Interventions, Commodities and Guidelines for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Child Heath” proposes to answer this questions. Both doctors and scientists as well as professional organisations contributed to the study and altogether the authors analysed 50,000 scientific articles to determine the effectiveness of 142 different types of intervention.

    Download the study here.

    “That was great fun!”: Volunteering in Germany

    Volunteering is an important part of our civil society. In Germany around 23 million people work as volunteers, helping not only large organisations but also small local associations and initiatives. 
    The study “Volunteering in Germany” carried out by betterplace.lab and commissioned by ING DiBa (Bankunternehmen), examines the development of volunteering in recent years, the motivation behind it and the impacts voluntary work has on society.
    One conclusion, among others, is an increasing importance of digital media in volunteering. Social networks are now part of everyday life and offer new ways to promote involvement in the future.

    Download the comprehensive study here. (in German)

    Who benefits from the abundance of natural resources? Call for more balance in natural resources policies

    Many resource-rich countries are among the poorest in the world. Although a high supply of raw materials can provide an important development impetus, far too often only small groups and elites profit. Not only internal factors such as poor governance and weak institutions are issues - to the point that the abundance of natural resources is often a curse - but also external conditions like unequal power relations or a lack of ethics are relevant.
    The new study from the SÜDWIND Institute, “Who benefits from the abundance of natural resources?” asks the question, who really benefits and demands more balance in natural resources policies. 

    Click here or email info@suedwind-institut.de to order the study in German for €5.


    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_unep_keeping_track.JPG Get informed and clear up a few others Keeping track of a changing environment: From Rio to Rio+20

    A new set of statistics from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) shows the changes in the Earth’s environment in the last twenty years. The indicator report reveals the basics, highlighting the rapid build-up of more greenhouse gases, the disappearance of biodiversity and roughly a 40% increase in the use of natural resources, even faster than the global population growth rate. But the report also emphasises how dramatic and dangerous the direction we are heading in is and how certain parts of the world population could be threatened by it. 

    Click here for the full article or here to read the complete UNEP report (110 pages).

    Essential Interventions, Commodities and Guidelines for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Child Health

    How can a country with a very limited health budget mostly efficiently fight against infant and maternal mortality? Which measures have been particularly proven in recent years? The study released last week from the World Heath Organisation (WHO), the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Heath (PMNCH) and the international Aga Khan University entitled “Essential Interventions, Commodities and Guidelines for Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Child Heath” proposes to answer this questions. Both doctors and scientists as well as professional organisations contributed to the study and altogether the authors analysed 50,000 scientific articles to determine the effectiveness of 142 different types of intervention.

    Download the study here.

    “That was great fun!”: Volunteering in Germany

    Volunteering is an important part of our civil society. In Germany around 23 million people work as volunteers, helping not only large organisations but also small local associations and initiatives. 
    The study “Volunteering in Germany” carried out by betterplace.lab and commissioned by ING DiBa (Bankunternehmen), examines the development of volunteering in recent years, the motivation behind it and the impacts voluntary work has on society.
    One conclusion, among others, is an increasing importance of digital media in volunteering. Social networks are now part of everyday life and offer new ways to promote involvement in the future.

    Download the comprehensive study here. (in German)

    Who benefits from the abundance of natural resources? Call for more balance in natural resources policies

    Many resource-rich countries are among the poorest in the world. Although a high supply of raw materials can provide an important development impetus, far too often only small groups and elites profit. Not only internal factors such as poor governance and weak institutions are issues - to the point that the abundance of natural resources is often a curse - but also external conditions like unequal power relations or a lack of ethics are relevant.
    The new study from the SÜDWIND Institute, “Who benefits from the abundance of natural resources?” asks the question, who really benefits and demands more balance in natural resources policies. 

    Click here or email info@suedwind-institut.de to order the study in German for €5.


    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3320 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3320 Tue, 17 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     Take Advantage the Opportunity to attend the first official Global Marshall Plan Workshop! Time to take Action: Political Education Event

    The coordination office of the Global Marshall Plan Initiative is organising the first one-day workshop on the Global Marshall Plan on May 12, 2012.

    The workshop will be a shorter version of the Global Marshall Plan Academy and is an ideal opportunity to get to know the Initiative. Participants will engage intensively with the Global Marshall Plan Initiative and they will learn how to transform their interest in the challenges of globalisation into action. They will be able to discuss topics of global relevance and be inspired by the intiative's current projects.

    Depending on the feedback and output of this Workshop-Design, as well as of the demand by international supporters, there is also the possibility to hold the workshop in English instead of German. 


    Interested? Then register for the workshop before April 15, 2012. More information can be found here (in German).

    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_logo_ger.GIF Time to take Action: Political Education Event The coordination office of the Global Marshall Plan Initiative is organising the first one-day workshop on the Global Marshall Plan on May 12, 2012.

    The workshop will be a shorter version of the Global Marshall Plan Academy and is an ideal opportunity to get to know the Initiative. Participants will engage intensively with the Global Marshall Plan Initiative and they will learn how to transform their interest in the challenges of globalisation into action. They will be able to discuss topics of global relevance and be inspired by the intiative's current projects.

    Depending on the feedback and output of this Workshop-Design, as well as of the demand by international supporters, there is also the possibility to hold the workshop in English instead of German. 


    Interested? Then register for the workshop before April 15, 2012. More information can be found here (in German).

    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3314 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3314 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     Hot off the Press: A New Flyer for the Global Marshall Plan Initiative Help us spread our message even further!

    The Global Marshall Plan Initiative breathes and lives from the exchange and motivation between people, and from the promulgation of a sustainable way of thinking for a world in balance. More than 20.000 flyers could have been distributed in the last year alone!

    To offer even more people the possibility to inform others about a world in balance and to win them over for the idea of the Global Marshall Plan, the initiative's flyers have been updated. With updated content and adjustments made in response to current challenges, the new edition flyers are now in stock at the Global Marshall Plan Foundation.

    You can order the new flyer free of charge (plus shipping costs) on our website or download the PDF version there.

    As well as the regular Global Marshall Plan flyer, detailing the background and the ideas of the Global Marshall Plan, we have now designed an official flyer for the Global Marshall Plan book subscription. This new flyer gives an updated list of books, now containing 42 titles, and invites you to participate in our campaign “5 Euros against ignorance”.

    Now it’s your turn to get active and make use of these tools! Order a pile of our flyers for distribution or help us to translate them into other languages. So far, the new flyers are only available in German. Therefore we are looking for committed native speakers who are interested in helping us translate the flyer into English, French, Spanish and other languages.

    If you are interested in helping with the translation please contact us at uebersetzung@globalmarshallplan.org With your help, we could reach out to even more people and show them how commitment can help create a better world! 


    We send a big Thank You to our supporter Sandro Behrndt who made the layout for the new flyer.

    (Pictures: Cover of the Global Marshall Plan Flyer, first page of the Abo-Flyers, inside of the Global Marshall Plan Flyer)

    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_flyer_teaser.JPG Help us spread our message even further!

    The Global Marshall Plan Initiative breathes and lives from the exchange and motivation between people, and from the promulgation of a sustainable way of thinking for a world in balance. More than 20.000 flyers could have been distributed in the last year alone!

    To offer even more people the possibility to inform others about a world in balance and to win them over for the idea of the Global Marshall Plan, the initiative's flyers have been updated. With updated content and adjustments made in response to current challenges, the new edition flyers are now in stock at the Global Marshall Plan Foundation.

    You can order the new flyer free of charge (plus shipping costs) on our website or download the PDF version there.

    As well as the regular Global Marshall Plan flyer, detailing the background and the ideas of the Global Marshall Plan, we have now designed an official flyer for the Global Marshall Plan book subscription. This new flyer gives an updated list of books, now containing 42 titles, and invites you to participate in our campaign “5 Euros against ignorance”.

    Now it’s your turn to get active and make use of these tools! Order a pile of our flyers for distribution or help us to translate them into other languages. So far, the new flyers are only available in German. Therefore we are looking for committed native speakers who are interested in helping us translate the flyer into English, French, Spanish and other languages.

    If you are interested in helping with the translation please contact us at uebersetzung@globalmarshallplan.org With your help, we could reach out to even more people and show them how commitment can help create a better world! 


    We send a big Thank You to our supporter Sandro Behrndt who made the layout for the new flyer.

    (Pictures: Cover of the Global Marshall Plan Flyer, first page of the Abo-Flyers, inside of the Global Marshall Plan Flyer)

    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3313 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3313 Mon, 16 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     Rio+20 Zero Draft Outcome Document Released The official Document outlining the Goals of the upcoming UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) has been released

    The zero draft document, the official document outlining the goals of the upcoming UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), has been released. Whilst the document is still in the draft stages, with the first set of discussions planned for 25-27th January at the UN Headquarters in New York, and is expected to be modified, it currently reinforces the UN Member States’ commitment to work together for a sustainable future.

    Asking Member States to reaffirm the Rio Principles, the zero draft also examines the progress of the outcomes implemented from past conferences and tries to identify where the gaps lie, and furthermore aims to bring the fundamental need for widespread public participation in decision-making to the attention of the Member States.   

    The draft identifies the theme “Green Economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication” as a means to achieve sustainable development, emphasising the green economy as a decision-making framework to encourage the consideration of the three pillars of sustainable development in both public and private realms of decision-making. The document explains that the green economy should not threaten any country, but rather create an international knowledge-sharing platform, which aids the design and implementation of green economic policies, tailored to each country’s specific needs, and in particular helping developing countries build their green economies.

    Furthermore the document details plans to strengthen the Commission on Sustainable Development or to transform it into a Sustainable Development Council and likewise proposes to expand the UNEP or transform it into a UN specialised agency for the environment. 

    Read the full document here.

    (Picture source: Bank of Natural Capital)

    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_logo-rio509.JPG The official Document outlining the Goals of the upcoming UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20) has been released The zero draft document, the official document outlining the goals of the upcoming UN Conference on Sustainable Development (Rio+20), has been released. Whilst the document is still in the draft stages, with the first set of discussions planned for 25-27th January at the UN Headquarters in New York, and is expected to be modified, it currently reinforces the UN Member States’ commitment to work together for a sustainable future.

    Asking Member States to reaffirm the Rio Principles, the zero draft also examines the progress of the outcomes implemented from past conferences and tries to identify where the gaps lie, and furthermore aims to bring the fundamental need for widespread public participation in decision-making to the attention of the Member States.   

    The draft identifies the theme “Green Economy in the context of sustainable development and poverty eradication” as a means to achieve sustainable development, emphasising the green economy as a decision-making framework to encourage the consideration of the three pillars of sustainable development in both public and private realms of decision-making. The document explains that the green economy should not threaten any country, but rather create an international knowledge-sharing platform, which aids the design and implementation of green economic policies, tailored to each country’s specific needs, and in particular helping developing countries build their green economies.

    Furthermore the document details plans to strengthen the Commission on Sustainable Development or to transform it into a Sustainable Development Council and likewise proposes to expand the UNEP or transform it into a UN specialised agency for the environment. 

    Read the full document here.

    (Picture source: Bank of Natural Capital)

    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3307 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3307 Fri, 13 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     Transparency International: Corruption Perceptions Index 2011 published The vast Majority of Countries score below five on a Scale of 0 (highly corrupt) to 10 (very clean)

    Transparency International has published its Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) for 2011. The CPI measures the perceived levels of public sector corruption in 183 countries and territories around the world. Countries are ranked on a scale from 0 (highly corrupt) to 10 (very clean). The newest CPI is lead by New Zealand (9,5), Denmark (9,4), Finland (9,4), Sweden (9,3) and Singapore (9,2). Public sector officials and politicians in those countries are perceived as the most upright. The lowest scores went to countries such as Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan (1,6), Afghanistan and Myanmar (1,5). At the bottom of the worldwide ranking were Somalia (1,0) and North Korea (1,0), which this year appears in the CPI for the first time.

    The country ranking draws on assessments and opinion surveys carried out by independent and reputable institutions. These surveys and assessments include questions related to the bribery of public officials, kickbacks in public procurement, embezzlement of public funds, and the effectiveness of public sector anti-corruption efforts. Perceptions are used because corruption is to a great extent a hidden activity that is difficult to measure. Over time, perceptions have proved to be a reliable estimate of corruption.

    Transparency International used the launch of the new CPI to direct some serious criticism towards governments as well: “Public sector governance that puts the interests of its citizens first is a responsibility that transcends borders. Governments must act accordingly. For their part, citizens need to continue demanding better performance from their leaders. If we work together, the situation shown by this year’s Corruption Perceptions Index can improve. These are our countries and our future.”

    Browse the Webpage of the newest CPI!

    (Picture sources: cpi.transparency.org, transparency.de)

    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_cpi2011_reportcover.JPG The vast Majority of Countries score below five on a Scale of 0 (highly corrupt) to 10 (very clean) Transparency International has published its Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) for 2011. The CPI measures the perceived levels of public sector corruption in 183 countries and territories around the world. Countries are ranked on a scale from 0 (highly corrupt) to 10 (very clean). The newest CPI is lead by New Zealand (9,5), Denmark (9,4), Finland (9,4), Sweden (9,3) and Singapore (9,2). Public sector officials and politicians in those countries are perceived as the most upright. The lowest scores went to countries such as Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan (1,6), Afghanistan and Myanmar (1,5). At the bottom of the worldwide ranking were Somalia (1,0) and North Korea (1,0), which this year appears in the CPI for the first time.

    The country ranking draws on assessments and opinion surveys carried out by independent and reputable institutions. These surveys and assessments include questions related to the bribery of public officials, kickbacks in public procurement, embezzlement of public funds, and the effectiveness of public sector anti-corruption efforts. Perceptions are used because corruption is to a great extent a hidden activity that is difficult to measure. Over time, perceptions have proved to be a reliable estimate of corruption.

    Transparency International used the launch of the new CPI to direct some serious criticism towards governments as well: “Public sector governance that puts the interests of its citizens first is a responsibility that transcends borders. Governments must act accordingly. For their part, citizens need to continue demanding better performance from their leaders. If we work together, the situation shown by this year’s Corruption Perceptions Index can improve. These are our countries and our future.”

    Browse the Webpage of the newest CPI!

    (Picture sources: cpi.transparency.org, transparency.de)

    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3296 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3296 Thu, 12 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>     Consumers have more Influence than they are aware of Experts on Business Ethics state that Consumer Power has been underestimated

    In recent times, the behaviour of consumers has changed dramatically. More and more customers attach importance to sustainable products, compliance with social standards and fair trade. “Responsibility” has become an important factor in consumerism. But how much influence does the consumer really have on sustainable production and the welfare of producers in developing countries?

    Cultural scientist Prof. Dr. Ludger Heidbrink has published a new book, entitled: “Die Verantwortung des Konsumenten“ (The Responsibility of the consumer). The edition offers an updated view on the limits of growth and develops ideas for the design of a sustainable future. The key message is that consumers have more power and influence than they would expect. The product chosen in supermarkets has an influence on the global market and when more and more people chose organic and fair trade products, a strong signal is sent to the producers.

    The majority of Germans surveyed confirm that they would be willing to pay higher prices for their groceries if that would encourage environmentally friendly and fair methods of production. But the sales volumes indicate that the market share of these products is still very low. Professor Heidbrink explains the discrepancy between the ambition to shop more responsibly and the real shopping behaviour with everyday problems such as lack of time or the comparison of prices, which often shows organic products to be more expensive.

    But the consumer really does have the power to change things. A buying decision in Europe can lead indirectly to improved living conditions for people in Africa. On the other hand, the boycott of a company or a specific product can lead to changes in their production cycle or even drive the product out of the market. But often there first needs to be an outright scandal before the majority of consumers decide to start a boycott. In this respect, consumers still need to demonstrate more responsibility in the future.

    Read more (in German)!

    (Bildquellen: welt.de, campus.de)

    ]]>     http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/global/images/cms/10/Prev_verantwortung_des_konsumenten.JPG Experts on Business Ethics state that Consumer Power has been underestimated In recent times, the behaviour of consumers has changed dramatically. More and more customers attach importance to sustainable products, compliance with social standards and fair trade. “Responsibility” has become an important factor in consumerism. But how much influence does the consumer really have on sustainable production and the welfare of producers in developing countries?

    Cultural scientist Prof. Dr. Ludger Heidbrink has published a new book, entitled: “Die Verantwortung des Konsumenten“ (The Responsibility of the consumer). The edition offers an updated view on the limits of growth and develops ideas for the design of a sustainable future. The key message is that consumers have more power and influence than they would expect. The product chosen in supermarkets has an influence on the global market and when more and more people chose organic and fair trade products, a strong signal is sent to the producers.

    The majority of Germans surveyed confirm that they would be willing to pay higher prices for their groceries if that would encourage environmentally friendly and fair methods of production. But the sales volumes indicate that the market share of these products is still very low. Professor Heidbrink explains the discrepancy between the ambition to shop more responsibly and the real shopping behaviour with everyday problems such as lack of time or the comparison of prices, which often shows organic products to be more expensive.

    But the consumer really does have the power to change things. A buying decision in Europe can lead indirectly to improved living conditions for people in Africa. On the other hand, the boycott of a company or a specific product can lead to changes in their production cycle or even drive the product out of the market. But often there first needs to be an outright scandal before the majority of consumers decide to start a boycott. In this respect, consumers still need to demonstrate more responsibility in the future.

    Read more (in German)!

    (Bildquellen: welt.de, campus.de)

    ]]>     1 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3294 http://content.globalmarshallplan.org/ShowNews.asp?ID=3294 Wed, 11 Jan 2012 11:00:00 GMT Global Marshall Plan Foundation]]>