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Updated Wed. Feb. 18 2009 10:03 PM ET
CTV.ca News Staff
An American flag flies on a lamp in front of the Peace Tower on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Wednesday Feb. 18, 2009. (Adrian Wyld / THE CANADIAN PRESS)
Anjali Helferty carries a life-size cutout of U.S. President Barack Obama across Rideau street in Ottawa Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2009. (Tom Hanson / THE CANADIAN PRESS)
One of many American flags flutters from a lamp post in front of Parliament Hill in Ottawa in preparation for U.S. President Barack Obama’s visit to Canada on Thursday, Feb. 19, 2009. (Tom Hanson / THE CANADIAN PRESS)
Prime Minister Stephen Harper speaks with CTV News Toronto’s Ken Shaw for an exclusive interview, Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2009.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper says he’s found a partner in Barack Obama when it comes to green policies, on the eve of the president’s arrival in Ottawa.
Harper defended his environmental record Wednesday on CNN, going so far as to blame former president George W. Bush for blocking efforts to fight climate change, and said Obama looks to be a much more willing partner.
“We’ve been trying to do so in an integrated economy when the United States has not been willing to do so. I think quite frankly that we have the present administration that wants to see some kind of regulation in this is an encouragement,” Harper said Wednesday.
But environmentalists say that Harper is only acting now because Obama has made a number of green moves only weeks into his presidency.
Mike Hudema of Greenpeace told CTV News that his organization has seen more positive environmental signs in the “first three weeks of Obama than in three years of a Harper legacy.”
Obama and Harper are expected to start the framework for negotiations for a common North American strategy to cut greenhouse gas emissions.
Environment Minister Jim Prentice said that the two countries need to “to clean up the way we produce energy whether its coal or oil sands or other forms of hydro carbon.”
But there are worries among the Canadian oil sector because the Obama administration has said it wants to cut down on “dirty oil,” which may include Alberta’s oil sands. That topic is expected to come up Thursday.
Harper issues warning
Harper also issued dire warning that U.S. protectionism could turn a recession into a depression Wednesday.
He said that any effort to close the U.S. border to trade would be a “huge risk to the world.”
Harper also made mention of a topic he doesn’t want to discuss with Obama – reopening the North America Free Trade Agreement to debate.
He said reopening NAFTA could mean never-ending re-negotiations. Obama raised fears of re-negotiating NAFTA during his campaign for president, but has since then quietly backed off that initiative.
Obama’s talk of reopening NAFTA was believed to be mostly aimed at Mexico, but Harper said that even by putting one part of the agreement under the microscope could put the entire deal in jeopardy.
When asked by CNN’s Wolf Blitzer about what advice he could give the U.S. on the economy, Harper declined to do so.
But he did tout Canada’s strong banking system and said that his country’s economic issues were nowhere near as significant as the U.S.’s.
‘Fruitful’ discussion expected
Harper said he expects to have “fruitful” discussions tomorrow with U.S. President Barack Obama on the economy, international affairs, the environment and energy issues.
“All of those things along with the border, the great border we share that is obviously the transitway for the largest trade flows in history — those will all be very important topics we will be discussing,” Harper told CTV Toronto in an interview that aired Tuesday night.
Obama’s much-anticipated visit will also be the first international state trip he has made since his inauguration, and thousands of people are expected to gather on Parliament Hill in hopes of seeing him.
“I’m hoping it will be the beginning of many fruitful discussions between the two of us and obviously between our governments,” Harper said.
Obama and Harper are expected to talk about the recent developments in the struggling auto sector and how their respective governments will respond.
Charles Doran, director of Canadian Studies at John Hopkins University, told CTV Newsnet that North America’s integrated auto sector requires an integrated governmental response.
“They want to be sure they don’t get in each other’s way (with an auto bailout), they want to be sure there isn’t a lot of resistance on each side in terms of protectionism,” Doran said Wednesday. “A lot of things need to be discussed to make this work.”
Doran said that Obama’s visit will demonstrate a significant change in foreign policy from the previous U.S. administration.
“What we see here is a difference in tone. This is a new administration in the U.S. that takes the position that Canada and other countries are part of world order . . . and (Obama’s) government is listening,” he said.
Obama visit excites Canadians, Harper included
Even though Obama’s visit will be brief and crammed with official events, busloads of well-wishers are expected to come from Montreal, Toronto and Kitchener, Ont.
Groups plan to line the fenced-in lawn at Parliament Hill as well as the route Obama’s motorcade will follow. Also, a “Yes We Span” march is planned for the Laurier bridge.
Harper’s staff were anxious this week to point out that the two leaders have a lot in common, saying they are similar in age, both have young families and neither had been in elected office for long when they became their nation’s leader.
“They really, at a basic level, have quite a bit in common,” Harper spokesman Kory Teneycke told The Canadian Press, pointing out that both come from “outside the political establishment.”
One of the main things they share, Harper said, is the challenge of fixing the crippled global economy, achieving success in Afghanistan and addressing environmental and energy concerns
Harper has spoken with Obama three times and described him as “very easy to talk to.”
He said he is looking forward to meeting the president in person for a more extended visit.
“The conversations I have had with him haven’t been lengthy, but we’ve covered a lot of ground. He’s been very focused on what his agenda for the fall is, what he wants to achieve. Obviously we’re going to have many more hours when he’s here on Thursday.”
Harper said he believes the Obama administration has a “great sense” of the importance of the Canada-U.S. relationship, and the potential to build on it.
Itinerary details
Obama’s plane will be landing at Hangar 11 at Ottawa international airport at about 10:30 a.m., where he will be greeted by Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean followed by a short, private meeting.
After that, Obama’s motorcade will travel to Parliament Hill where thousands of well-wishers are expected to be waiting outside a security fence, hoping for a glimpse of the president.
The two leaders will have a 10-minute one-on-one meeting, then a “restricted” meeting with senior officials, followed by a working lunch with officials.
They will then make statements to the media and take a total of four questions before Obama returns to the airport, where he will meet briefly with Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff.
Finally, Obama will climb aboard Air Force 1 and head home at about 4:30 p.m.
With a report by CTV’s Robert Fife
Source: http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20090218/obama_harper_090218/20090218?hub=QPeriod
Cosmetic companies are hopping on the healthy living bandwagon.
Skin care and a daily beauty routine are important elements to a healthy lifestyle, especially for many women who thrive on looking their best, but do we ever really stop to think about what we’re putting on and into our bodies?
“Puffery” is a term used by the cosmetic industry when speaking of marketing ploys used to make consumers think they are getting something they are not. False advertising of ingredients meant to help with wrinkles or age spots and/or exaggerating a product’s abilities, so people like you and me will fork over the money, is exactly what I want to help you avoid.
The easiest way to avoid being hoodwinked is to go organic. In a time when healthy living has become a priority, why not extend beyond exercise and healthy eating? Remember, knowledge is power, so educate yourself and read on as I attempt to make your hunt a little easier. Once you go all natural, I promise, you’ll never go back.
Avoid Complicated Ingredient Names
Liposomes, nayad…do these mean anything to you? They don’t mean anything to me either. This is a trap consumers often fall in to; not only with beauty products, but also with the foods we eat. Remember the old adage, “if you can’t read it, don’t eat it?” That goes for your skin as well.
The major concept behind organic products is that they are often handmade using all natural ingredients, which means smaller amounts are produced for fresher batches and names you can pronounce and understand are used. Look for products that have natural scents and colours, such as lavender or citrus, and have lavender and fruit listed in the ingredients. Also avoid buying items that have more than one ingredient you do not recognize. Look for the words “all natural” or “organic.” If you don’t see them, leave it on the shelf.
Do Your Homework
Now, having said all of that, just because something says it’s “organic” and “all natural,” does not necessarily make it so. Visit some websites, such as www.allnaturalbeauty.us, a directory for natural and organic products, or look to familiar names, like Burt’s Bees or Yves Rocher for starters. If this process seems daunting and untrustworthy, then pay a visit to your dermatologist and pick a professional’s brain about what ingredients would be best for your skin type and which brands may be the right fit for you. You can also go right to the source and ask your local health store for information on ingredients and products that make the grade.
Your health and appearance are important and worth the time it will take to become an expert. After all, it’s your body, shouldn’t you be the authority?
Trial Period
Now that you have done a little work and safeguarded yourself with the right information from accredited sources, you can begin the search for the products that suit you. Like anything new, it is best to start out with small doses. After all, that’s what trial runs were meant for.
Go to your local beauty counter or health store and ask if they will supply you with samples of their natural beauty lines. If that isn’t possible, purchase the smallest size as a tester. After use, look for signs of skin irritation or sensitivity, as they may be an indication of allergies. Following repeated usage, look for signs of effectiveness. If the product is not performing its intended purpose, then you know to avoid that particular line and move on to the next.
Finding the perfect mix may prove to be a lengthy process, but once found you can rest easy knowing your skin is in good hands. If you don’t look after your skin well now, how can you expect it to retain its lustrous appearance as you age?
The Cost
Organic products are often more expensive than their mass-produced, chemically enhanced competitors, so keep this in mind when comparing products. You may have to spend a little more now, but your skin will thank you later.
________________
go organic!
Do not blindly grab every product that says ORGANIC or NATURAL in bold letters. Make sure you read the packaging, especially the ingredients list. If you are unsure, ask a professional at the counter for help. Finally, look at going organic as a change in lifestyle, embrace it as a part of your healthy living routine and invite it into all aspects of your life.
Source: http://fashionism.ca/beauty/ContentPosting_TheSoko?newsitemid=thesoko-1325&feedname=THESOKO_V2&show=False&number=3&showbyline=True&subtitle=&detect=&abc=abc&date=False
by Elizabeth B. Goldsmith (Author), Betsy Sheldon (Author)
An authoritative guide to reducing household exposure to hazardous chemicals
Thousands of household products contain toxic ingredients. Today, more and more people are seeking more natural cleaning methods to reduce their exposure to harsh chemicals. From the kitchen and bath to the living room and laundry, Green Cleaning For Dummies provides readers with green solutions to every common cleaning chore. Focusing on organic, nontoxic, sustainable alternatives to conventional cleaning products, it’s packed with suggestions and tips for effective cleaning, and even offers green solutions for sprucing up patios, garages, vehicles, and the exterior of a house.
From the Back Cover
Your ecofriendly guide to safer, healthier housekeeping
Want to go green as you clean? This authoritative guide provides expert, proven advice on cleaning your home with organic, nontoxic, sustainable resources. From the kitchen and bath to the living room, laundry, and even your garage, you get green solutions for every common cleaning chore.
- Discover a new way to clean — learn how natural methods can save you money while improving your health and the environment
- Get ready to go green — prepare your house and assemble cleaning tools
- Protect your family — know the right cleaners to avoid (and which ones you can make yourself)
- Tackle your inside spaces — get green cleaning solutions for every room in the house and improve the efficiency of your appliances
- Go the extra mile — go beyond cleaning with ways to conserve energy and reduce waste
Open the book and find:
- A room-by-room breakdown of green cleaning tips
- Recipes for making your own cleaning products
- Cost-free changes to clean green
- Tips for improving your sleeping environment
- Small changes to ease cleaning and save resources
- Ways to consume fewer resources
- An appendix of clean, green organizations and programs
Source: http://www.amazon.ca/Green-Cleaning-Dummies-Elizabeth-Goldsmith/dp/0470391065
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| Source: http://www.presidentschoice.ca/foodandrecipes/somethingmustbedone.aspx | ||
Author Adria Vasil appears on Canada AM
Updated Fri. Apr. 20 2007 10:48 AM ET
CTV.ca News Staff
You don’t have to give up shaving or chain yourself to a tree to be environmentally friendly. The decisions we make every day as consumers can make a big difference.
So how does one decide what are the best choices? A new book called Ecoholic offers to help Canadian consumers wade through the politics.
Author Adria Vasil says you don’t have to lead protests to make a difference. Start by making small decisions, such as installing a programmable thermostat, using non-toxic cleaning products or biking to work.
Vasil’s book is based on her column of the same name written for NOW Magazine since 2004. It’s a smart buyer’s guide that’s been customized for Canadians, written in Vasil’s trademark sassy, breezy style.
There are tips on making environmentally responsible choices at the grocery store, the drug store, the home renovation store and much more.
“There is a maze of choices out there and that’s why this book is needed,” Vasil told CTV.ca. “You’ve got to be armed with all the information.”
Through her book, Vasil presents both sides of debates on hot-button issues. For example: which is more friendly to the Earth: chopping down a Christmas tree that has been grown on a tree farm and sprayed with pesticides? Or buying a fake tree that has been made with polyvinyl chloride and plastics?
Vasil presents both sides of the debate and leaves it in the hands of consumers to make their own now-fully informed decision.
“I’ve asked the questions and done the research,” she says. “I encourage people to be skeptical and to think critically.”
Vasil laments that many Canadians have not been given all the information about the products they buy and are completely unaware of what’s in them. Take personal care products, for example. She says that the average adult uses nine personal care products a day, containing a total of 125 chemical ingredients, many of which most of us can’t pronounce, never mind assess their safety.
While the beauty industry likes to add so-called natural ingredients to its products, such as ginger and ylang ylang, “the truth is you’re drenching your lips, cheeks and hair in a largely untested and lengthy list of petroleum-derived, genetically modified, carcinogenic or animal- (even whale-) derived ingredients.”
“There are approximately 10,500 chemical ingredients stirred into the personal care products that line shelves… neither Canada or the U.S. requires much testing for these products,” she writes.
“We look to our governments to keep us healthy,” Vasil explained to CTV.ca. “But Canada has not been a leader in these things.”
“Europe has been ahead on this, getting rid of carcinogens in beauty products. And the United States started catching up after bio-monitoring the population” and finding that we are carrying a soup of chdemicals in our blood and breast milk.
Vasil warns that even some products at health-food stores aren’t perfect.
“You can go to the health food store and find lots of great toothpastes that are free of chemicals,” she told Canada AM. “But you also have to keep in mind that not everything at the health food store is chemical-free. It’s a bit of a ‘wild west.’ So you want to be a little bit dubious of what’s out there.”
The good news is that many simple beauty products can easily be made at home, and the best part is you’ll know exactly what goes into it. Here’s her recipe for:
Homemade toothpaste
6 teaspoons baking soda (whitener)
1/3 teaspoon salt (mild abrasive)
4 teaspoons vegetable glycerin (to create the gel)
15 drops of an organic essential oil – wintergreen, spearmint (minty fresh flavour)
Mix into a paste. Store in a small, labelled jar.
Excerpt from Ecoholic: Your Guide to the Most Environmentally Friendly Information, Products and Services in Canada, by Adria Vasil
Top Ten Things You Can Do for Your Children
1. Walk or bike your kids to school, or if that’s not feasible, ride on weekends–a family that bikes together saves the planet together!
2. Keep them inside and out of the downtown core on smog-days (going for a car ride when there’s a smog alert on is a big no-no!)
3. Make sure their toys are PVC-free–keep them from breathing in any offgasing plastic softeners.
4. Don’t reward with toys. Try to teach them that happiness doesn’t comes from buying new things, and the planet doesn’t need the resource extraction, chemical-pollution and landfill clogging that comes with making and eventually trashing them.
5. Use natural shampoos, creams and soaps. What you put on your young one’s body is as important as what you put in it.
6. Feed them organic whenever you can afford it, so they get a pesticide-, hormone-, and antibiotic-free diet.
7. Say no to high-fat, high-sugar, chemical-laden processed foods. There are plenty of natural alternatives, even for packaged kids’ snacks.
8. Create a non-toxic nursery or kids’ room full of earth-loving children’s books.
9. Resist the urge to swaddle your babe in landfill-clogging disposable diapers. But if cloth is out of the question, get unbleached, chlorine-free throw-away ones.
10. Teach them to love nature: take them to the park, on little hikes, or picnics in conservation centres.
Top 5 Eating Habits to Heal the World
1. Support local growers, be it through farmer’s markets, farm-fresh food box deliveries or just keeping your eye out for local labels at the grocery store.
2. Go vegetarian or reduce meat/dairy intake–meat production uses up to 20 times as much energy as growing grain.
3. Choose fair-trade coffee, sugar, chocolate and anything else you can find fair-trade so you can be sure you’re not supporting “sweatshops in the fields”.
4. Buy certified organic to avoid pesticides and spare waterways, wildlife and workers troubled encounters with toxic pesticides.
5. Pass on resource-intensive, packaging-heavy fast food and heavily processed junk.
Top 5 Eco Packaging Suggestions
1. Choose renewable and recyclable glass.
2. Know your numbers. If you’re buying something that comes in plastic, check the bottom for numbers that tell you the plastics are recyclable in your area, like #1 and #2. (See the City-by-City guide to learn what can be recycled in your city.)
3. Buy dry: if you’re picking up something like chicken broth, the powdered kind goes a lot further than the canned.
4. Buy in bulk, and bring your own containers.
5. Good things come in small packages. Often foods like cereals that come in smaller boxes contain the same amount of, say, mueslix, as the bigger boxes that are just full of air. Compare product weight to be sure.
Source: http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20070420/ecoholic_excerpt070420/20070420/
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