Selected articles from Sustainability Journal #1

Debt: Riding the Tiger

Economist Richard Douthwaite explains why the current housing boom is completely unsustainable:

Atlantic Gas of Little Benefit to Ireland

Ireland unwisely gave away its off-shore gas resources to a group of multinationals now headed by Shell. Now these same multinationals plan to build a refinery bang in the middle of a bog in North Mayo.... all with the blessing of the Irish State. For more on this ludicrous project, read the full article by Andy Wilson:

Shelter

Radical architect Peter Cowman describes how a paradigm shift away from reason towards the senses is an essential component of any movement towards becoming a more sustainable society:

Back to the Land

Food, climate and the coming energy crisis: Permaculture teacher and practitioner Graham Stouts argues that one of the most important steps we can take in preparing for the coming energy crisis is to begin producing more food.

The Fruit and Nut Case

Nuts are something we buy from the local wholefood store. But why not grow your own? Jacinta French and Paul McCormick argue that many more varieties of nut will crop well in Ireland on a regular basis than is commonly realised. The article also covers fruit which are proven to do well in Irish conditions.

Water Transport

Sustainability strategist Michael Layden puts forward a compelling case for redeveloping our canal and sea-going transport infrastructure.

Insulation Myths and Realities

Exposing the hype behind multi-layer foil insulation.