Cyrius: Your digital media department

There is no doubt technology and computers are transforming the world. Figuring out where you fit in – that’s what we do.

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Environment

by Stefan Sojka, 31 Dec '99

Name of Site: Global Response
URL: www.globalresponse.org
Load Time: Scorching
Ease of Navigation: Walk in the Park
Plug Ins Required: None
Review: "The Earth is not dying, it's being killed" - and now is your chance to address those in charge of the killing. Global Response is all about getting individuals to contact the powers that be directly with letter-writing campaigns targeting the most urgent problems that the world faces. The Internet is the perfect vehicle for such action, as it puts millions of people and thousands of organisations in touch with each other, magnifying people power, but also alerting one and all to the specific problems we face. Kids, teens and adults are all catered for with letter writing tips, action alerts and a great set of links. Hit 'em where it hurts - in the conscience. - SS

Name of Site: Earth Action
URL: www.earthaction.org
Load Time: Normal
Ease of Navigation: Signposted
Plug Ins Required: None
Review: There is nothing like a celebrity to add power to a campaigns voice and Romeo himself, Mr DiCaprio, is the man of action here. A range of campaigns, environmental and social, with plenty of alternative ways to get involved are presented, but it seems Leo has been too busy lately to maintain the rage, as the site seems a little outdated. Never mind, the resources are good, the goals far-reaching and ambitious, and the results seem to be rippling through this corrupt little planet of ours. The tide is turning, and Leo is standing on his beach waving us on. - SS

Name of Site: Greenpeace
URL: www.greenpeace.org
Load Time: Medium
Ease of Navigation: Signposted
Plug Ins Required: QuickTime, Windows Media Player, Real Media
Review: No org can say they are more powerful a player in the battle for media attention than Greenpeace, when it comes to environmental issues. Not only do these guys have the in-depth knowledge of what's really going on, they have the guts to speak out about it, and the ingenuity to maximise publicity. You can join in on the act with some fun and potent mini-protests, their latest "speech bubble" action for example - you don't have to risk your life in a rubber dinghy. With your help, and their resourcefulness, we will have a greener and more peaceful world. - SS

Name of Site: Rocky Mountain Institute
URL: www.rmi.org
Load Time: Scorching
Ease of Navigation: Signposted
Plug Ins Required: None
Review: It's OK to go around telling everyone about all the problems our planet faces, but what about the answers? RMI is devoted to providing those answers. Real solutions to planet management, resource efficiency and sustainability. They maintain that being kind to the world is more profitable than destroying it, and they are spreading their message throughout industry, government and the general population. All aspects are covered, from housing and energy to forestry and transportation. The concept of "natural capitalism" is real goer, as you will discover. In fact it may be our only choice. - SS

Name of Site: The Wind
URL: www.thewind.info
Load Time: Medium
Ease of Navigation: Signposted
Plug Ins Required: Flash
Review: The wind energy association is keen to see green energy take flight and create a win-win for themselves and the environment. The goal is to have 10% of all our energy generated by wind and solar means by the year 2010. Makes for a booming industry and an optimistic outlook on the future. As you will discover, the numbers actually add up in favour of wind and solar over coal and gas. Join the campaign by writing to the PM, telling your friends and, just when you think it's all about to take off, buying a truckload of shares. - SS

Name of Site: AlterNet Envirohealth
URL: www.alternet.org/issues/index.html?IssueAreaID=18
Load Time: Scorching
Ease of Navigation: Signposted
Plug Ins Required: None
Review: AlterNet deals with a wide range of important issues, from war to human rights and the environment. The 'envirohealth' section is packed with intelligent and thought-provoking commentary, news and editorial covering all the major issues of our time. Rather than simply bemoaning the state of things, AlterNet likes to delve into the causes, the political machinations, the value systems and ideologies that created the problems in the first place. Racism, greed and politics combine to undermine our lives. It is only by opening our eyes to the complexities that we can shift towards alternative schemes. It is possible, and it is written right here. - SS

Name of Site: Environmental News Network
URL: www.enn.com
Load Time: Medium
Ease of Navigation: Signposted
Plug Ins Required: Real Player
Review: Forget CNN, it's time for ENN to deliver the real news that matters. This media portal, including its own radio program, is a clearinghouse for all manner of environmental stories that are constantly surfacing around the globe. Environmental change is often slow and imperceptible, so doesn't make good headlines, but is far more vital to our future than the more visual random shooting or car crash. ENN has a commercial motive, just like the normal news, but every sponsor in their directory is pushing sustainable, eco-friendly wares. The interactive section gives you a chance to participate in producing more good news for us all. - SS

Name of Site: Friends of the Earth Australia
URL: www.foe.org.au
Load Time: Scorching
Ease of Navigation: Walk in the Park
Plug Ins Required: None
Review: FOE has been around for a long time and has evolved into an entire network of grass roots organisations with agreed values and principals. They encourage participation in local, national and global actions, which highlight pressing problems and attempt to thwart dangerous or destructive developments. The issues are wide-ranging and vital, from radioactive waste dumps to climate change. Once again the Internet provides the perfect vehicle for information dissemination and recruitment of newly enlightened activists, such as, well... you and me. - SS

Name of Site: Envirolink Network
URL: www.envirolink.org
Load Time: Scorching
Ease of Navigation: Need a Map
Plug Ins Required: None
Review: Like most environmental groups, here is another non-profit grass roots group. It seems there is still no money in being kind to the planet. Envirolink is committed to connecting all environmental groups and movements, through their huge link listings. They cover a vast array of topics, from ecosystems to urban issues, environmental disasters to energy efficiency. By pulling it all together here the movement makes a giant leap forward. More and more people are gaining access to the information, alternative solutions and ways and means of becoming involved. What are you waiting for? To save the world - click here! - SS

Name of Site: Environment Australia
URL: www.erin.gov.au
Load Time: Medium
Ease of Navigation: Need a Map
Plug Ins Required: None
Review: The Australian government is slowly but surely being pressured by urgent concerns and enlightened groups into realising that being kind to the environment is good for Australia, good for the economy and good for getting elected. This rather bloated site takes you to the countless departments, committees and initiatives our faithful public servants have been dreaming up on behalf of our leaders, to paint a rosy picture of the efforts made so far, and make the challenges look surmountable. I certainly don't envy them with the way things are at the moment and the vested interests they are torn between but at least you, dear citizen, have a place where you can discover what is happening, and hopefully make a difference at the ballot box. - SS

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Articles: Site Reviews

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