SGC Admin Eco News

From our inbox to you From The David Suzuki Foundation

 

UN climate talks offer hope for humanity

Eiffel Tower shines at night
(Credit: Yann Caradec via Flickr)

With world leaders now meeting in Paris for the UN Climate Change Conference, we’re seeing signs of hope for an agreement to limit the escalating effects of global warming. Canadians, especially, have reason to be optimistic about our country’s role.

It hasn’t always been this way.Governments have been formally discussing climate change since the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and the first climate conference in Berlin, Germany, in 1995. Since then, we’ve been taking two steps forward and one step back — not good enough when dealing with an accelerating crisis.

Canada signed the Kyoto Protocol in 1998, ratified it in 2002, did little to meet its targets, then withdrew in late 2011, the first and only nation to do so. The Climate Action Network selected our country for numerous Fossil of the Day, Fossil of the Year and Lifetime Unachievement Fossil awards for inaction on climate change and for obstructing international agreements.

But it appears leaders in Canada and globally are finally giving the issue the attention it deserves. Our government now has a minister of environment and climate change, and sent a delegation to Paris that includes a cabinet committee on environment, climate change and energy headed by Foreign Minister Stéphane Dion, as well as opposition party representatives and provincial leaders.

Alberta, which has long put fossil-fuel interests ahead of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, now has a comprehensive strategy to phase out coal power, promote renewable energy, put a price on carbon pollution and limit oilsands emissions. Ontario and Quebec have also moved to put a price on carbon emissions, joining California in a cap-and-trade system. Even Saskatchewan, not known for climate leadership, has committed to 50 per cent renewable energy by 2030.

Phasing out coal power and putting a price on carbon are effective ways to reduce dangerous CO2 emissions. Burning coal is the most polluting way to produce energy and creates the highest greenhouse gas emissions, and a well-designed carbon tax or cap-and-trade system has proven to cut emissions and fossil-fuel consumption without negatively affecting economies.

In its first five years, B.C.’s carbon tax, implemented in 2008, led to a 17.4 per cent drop in petroleum-fuel use, and greenhouse gas emissions went down while GDP remained strong. B.C. income tax rates remain the lowest in Canada.

Globally, things are also looking up. The Paris conference required the 196 participating countries to submit their own climate plans. Although those combined aren’t enough to keep us below the 2 C increase in global average temperatures beyond pre-industrial levels that scientists say is necessary to avoid catastrophe, they do limit warming to a 2.7 C rise, which is at least a serious starting point. Current practices put us on track for a 5 C increase!

The Paris conference is also aiming for national climate plan reviews every five years to ensure targets are being met and to look at ways of improving them. And cities, local governments and businesses are being encouraged to do more, which has worked well in Canada.

Another important component of the Paris talks is to find ways to help developing nations improve prosperity while keeping emissions from rising. Developed countries have committed to raising $100 billion a year by 2020 to help developing nations though the Green Climate Fund, World Bank, government contributions and other mechanisms.

But government commitments only raise hopes so far. The other good sign is the rapid development of renewable energy technologies like wind, solar and geothermal. Coupled with energy conservation, renewables are critical to confronting the climate crisis.

A recent report from Stanford University and the International Renewable Energy Agencyfound it’s technically feasible and economically viable for the world to shift to sustainable energy by 2030, and lays out a plan for 139 countries to reach that goal. Many jurisdictions are already getting a lot of their energy from renewable sources.

With clean energy production and grid technology improving and costs coming down, there’s no excuse to continue rapidly burning diminishing supplies of fossil fuels. As leaders meet in Paris, citizens march in the streets and innovators develop solutions, we have more reason than ever to be hopeful for the future of our place on this small, blue planet.

By David Suzuki with contributions from David Suzuki Foundation Senior Editor Ian Hanington.
SGC Admin Astrology Info, Moon Phase: Current Sun Sign:

The Moon and Astrology: How it affects our daily life…Transiting Moon in Sagittarius December 2015:

The Moon and Astrology

HOW IT AFFECTS OUR DAILY LIVES… 

In astrology, the moon is connected to our emotions and reactions… how we are feeling on a given day may well be influenced by the sign that is visiting the moon… Each sign stays with the moon for up to 2.5 days…. :) 

The Moon Void-of-Course: 

There are times throughout the month when the moon isn’t fully immersed in any sign… this is when we say the moon is Void of Course… and when this occurs, we may feel “foggy” and “unfocused” … We may not be sure how we are truly feeling about a situation or a person…. Therefore it is not recommended that we make long-term commitments or important decision’s while the moon is Void of Course…. However there are 4 signs in the zodiac which may prove positive during the Void-of-Course moon… 

Good for Void-Of-Course Moon:

These v/c signs may prove to be quite productive times.

  • Cancer
  • Taurus
  • Sagittarius
  • Pisces…

Opportunity Periods  (thanks to astrologer Jim Shawvan):

There are other periods throughout the month that are known as opportunity periods, when it can prove to be a positive time for most people, however if you have challenging aspects happening within your own chart you may not be able to make use of opportunity periods. 

Present Moon Sign/Phase/House:

12 Constellations ------- Sagittarius Stock Vector - 7615783
http://www.123rf.com:Copyright : Ka Ho Leung
  • Date: December 9 to 11 2015
  • Moon Sign: Sagittarius at 5:25 pm (ET) 2:25 pm (PT) 
  • Moon Phase: 4th
  • Void-off-Course: December 11 @ 11:06 am  (ET) 8:06 am (PT) to December 12 @ 1:46 am (ET) December 11 @ 10:46 pm (PT): Moon v/c in Sagittarius is one of the 4 void off course  “good signs” (see above).
  • The New Moon begins on December 11th 
  • House(s): 2nd: 2nd house of financial and material security. 
  • Opportunity Period: None

What does it all mean?

  • Sagittarius is the most “easy-going” of the fire signs and is ruled by Jupiter “the lucky planet”
  • We are going to want our personal freedom now, so take care partners who have a possessive or jealous tendencies, they might not be tolerated for the next couple of days. 
  • Because Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter “the lucky planet” we may be feeling luckier then usual… Just take care not to go over the budget… :) 
  • We could have more energy for fun things such as music, sports and shows
  • It’s easier to try something new and exciting just take care not to get carried away.
  • Could be a good time to take a few days for rest, relaxation and laughter
  • Good time for day dreaming and making fantastic plans for the future.
  • In the 2nd house, focus is likely our finances, some of us may even get luck in this area… for others, they may be more generous than they should be… Because this house also relates to our material security, we may also be looking at buying a house or moving to a foreign land.. 
  • While this moon will have a slight effect on all of us… those with the following in their charts will feel it stronger as will those who have a strong Gemini or Cancer placement in their charts. 
    • Moon in Sagittarius
    • Jupiter in Sagittarius
    • Moon in the 9th house
    • Ascendant in Sagittarius
    • Mid-heaven in Sagittarius
    • Moon in the 2nd house
    • Sun in Sagittarius
    • Aspects to the Moon and Jupiter. 

 

The New Moon is on December 11th in the sign of Sagittarius. Traditionally, when the moon renews herself it is a sign for us to begin something new.. Projects and sometimes relationships including partnerships can have a positive outcome if they are put into “action” under a New Moon… However, the best results occur when the beginning is begun when the moon is in her 1st phase. As the moon becomes new this month she does so while still in the 4th phase… it is best then to wait until the 12th of December to begin anything new.. as this is when she will be fully into the 1st phase… she will have the influence of Sagittarius and Capricorn as the moon moves into Capricorn on late on the 11th for those in the pacific time zone and early on the 12th for those in the eastern time zone. 

A new moon in Sagittarius/Capricorn will have the traits listed above for Sagittarius, but they will be intensified or stronger… Please see our next post for the traits of the moon in Capricorn. 

If you are the traveling type, beginning your new journey on udner a new moon (or 1st phase) can have a postive out come. As Sagittarius loves to travel and explore and learn new things… so beginning a class under this new moon can also go well… For the Capricorn influence, getting down to business and being focused on the goal at hand, whether it is leanring a new skill for fun or work can also go well under this new moon.

copyright: Greta McKenzie Astrology 11/27/2015

 

SGC Admin Astrology Info, Moon Phase: Current Sun Sign:

The Moon and Astrology: How it affects our daily life… Transiting Moon in Libra December 2015:

The Moon and Astrology

&

HOW IT AFFECTS OUR DAILY LIVES… 

In astrology, the moon is connected to our emotions and reactions… how we are feeling on a given day may well be influenced by the sign that is visiting the moon… Each sign stays with the moon for up to 2.5 days…. :) 

The Moon Void-of-Course: 

There are times throughout the month when the moon isn’t fully immersed in any sign… this is when we say the moon is Void of Course… and when this occurs, we may feel “foggy” and “unfocused” … We may not be sure how we are truly feeling about a situation or a person…. Therefore it is not recommended that we make long-term commitments or important decision’s while the moon is Void of Course…. However there are 4 signs in the zodiac which may prove positive during the Void-of-Course moon… 

Good for Void-Of-Course Moon:

These v/c signs may prove to be quite productive times.

  • Cancer
  • Taurus
  • Sagittarius
  • Pisces…

Opportunity Periods  (thanks to astrologer Jim Shawvan):

There are other periods throughout the month that are known as opportunity periods, when it can prove to be a positive time for most people, however if you have challenging aspects happening within your own chart you may not be able to make use of opportunity periods. astrologer and Llewellyn’s Daily Planetary Guide for opportunity periods.

Present Moon Sign/Phase/House:

September - October are the months of the zodiac sign of the balance Libra is Space attribute of justice, balance and equilibrium Air, artistic, emotional representatives of this sign Stock Photo - 20428907
http://www.123rf.com: Copyright : helein
  • Date: December 4 to 7 2015
  • Moon Sign: Libra 5:34 pm (ET) 2:34 pm (PT)
  • Moon Phase: 4th.
  • Void-of-Course: December 6 @ 9:03 pm (ET) 6:03 pm (PT) to December 7 6:26 am (ET) 3:26 am (PT) Moon v/c in Libra is not one of the 4 void off course “good signs” 
  • House: 12th: 12th house of our psyche, institutions, secrets, fantasy and illusion. 
  • Opportunity Period: December 6 3:38 am (ET) 12:38 am (PT) to December 7 6:26 am (ET) 3:26 am (PT): A short period where, even if we are passionate about our beliefs, we can still think straight. 

What does it all mean?

  • Libra has a need for balance, indicating this moon period may be an ideal time to implement some into our daily lives. 
  • A desire for justice may be present, dealing with issues that have upset our sense of justice may prove to be productive. 
  • Diplomacy is likely to be more apparent during the next few days, and may be a good time to bring up that topic you have been putting on the back burner. 
  • Hesitation is probably going to raise its head, we may see many sides of a story and find it difficult to make up our minds. 
  • Difficulty in making commitments or long-term decisions, because we can’t make up our minds. If this is the case perhaps wait a few days until the move has moved out of Libra. 
  • Libra is happiest when in a relationship or partnership. Indicating this may be a good time to begin one. :) 
  • Co-operation should be in the air, making this an ideal time to make plans with others. 
  • May be a good time to improve our appearance and surroundings. 
  • May be great time to go bargain hunting, 
  • In the 12 house, we may feel more inclined to spend time alone. For some of us it may mean a trip to the hospital, to visit someone or for a procedure. Secrets may be created or affairs of the heart fantasized about, take care what you tell who during the next few days, and be careful to forget the secrets you are told. 
  • This moon sign will affect us all but will have more of an effect on those who have the following in their charts.
    • Moon in Libra,
    • Sun in Libra,
    • Venus in Libra
    • Venus in Pisces
    • Moon in 12th house,
    • Moon in 7th house,
    • Any aspects to the Moon or Venus

 

Copyright: Greta McKenzie Astrology 11/27/2015
SGC Admin Astrology Info, Astrology Notes, Moon Phase: Current Sun Sign:

The Moon and Astrology: How it affects our daily life… Transiting Moon in Cancer November 2015:

The Moon and Astrology

&

HOW IT AFFECTS OUR DAILY LIVES… 

In astrology, the moon is connected to our emotions and reactions… how we are feeling on a given day may well be influenced by the sign that is visiting the moon… Each sign stays with the moon for up to 2.5 days…. :) 

The Moon Void-of-Course: 

There are times throughout the month when the moon isn’t fully immersed in any sign… this is when we say the moon is Void of Course… and when this occurs, we may feel “foggy” and “unfocused” … We may not be sure how we are truly feeling about a situation or a person…. Therefore it is not recommended that we make long-term commitments or important decision’s while the moon is Void off Course…. However there are 4 signs in the zodiac which may prove positive during the Void-off-Course moon… 

Good for Void-Of-Course Moon:

These v/c signs may prove to be quite productive times.

  • Cancer
  • Taurus
  • Sagittarius
  • Pisces…

Opportunity Periods  (thanks to astrologer Jim Shawvan):

There are other periods throughout the month that are known as opportunity periods, when it can prove to be a positive time for most people, however if you have challenging aspects happening within your own chart you may not be able to make use of opportunity periods. 

Thanks to Jim Shawvan present day astrologer, William Lilly 17th century astrologer and Llewellyn’s Daily Planetary Guide for opportunity periods.

Present Moon Sign/Phase/House:

Horoscope: abstract color sign of the zodiac - Cancer, beautiful illustration Stock Vector - 34141721
http://www.123rf.com: Copyright : vasvas
  • Date: November 27 to 29 2015
  • Moon Sign: Cancer @ 2:27 pm (ET) 11:27 am (PT)
  • Moon Phase: 3rd
  • Void-of-Course: November 29 @ 7:46 am (ET) 4:46 am (PT) to November 2 @ 7:47 pm (ET): 4:47 pm (PT)
  • House(s): 9th: 9th house of travel and higher learning.
  • Opportunity Period: November 29 7:47 am (ET) 4:47 am (PT) to 7:47 pm (ET): 4:47 pm (PT). Things might not go as quickly as we would like, but it is possible to make progress now. 

What does it all mean?

  • The moon is happy in the sign of Cancer because she rules here. Being sympathetic towards the worries of others is easier, we are more empathetic now. 
  • We can be more nurturing when there is a cancer moon
  • Domestic chores and responsibilities may be easier to do now, in fact some of us may be very happy making our home comfortable and safe
  • Cooking may be fun to do now,  so go ahead and try out that new recipe
  • The more emotionally sensitive of us, may take offense or feel slighted or more vulnerable during the Cancer moon… Caution is advised though, check your facts before you “accuse”. 
  • Some of us may feel needy, while others of us are happy to be the cuddler, helping our loved ones feel secure and in deed needed. Caution is advised that some of us can go over board on the needy thing during this moon period, so be careful if you don’t want to “scare” someone off… 
  • It’s a time for cuddles, caring, good food and just plain old lovings… :) Enjoy..
  • In the 9th house: A good time to learn something new, continue learning a new subject or working on a project… if you have been working hard of late, take a few hours out to enjoy yourself before the moon slips into the 10th house.
  • This moon sign will have more of an effect on those who have the following in their charts. 
  • Moon in Cancer: (these folk may really feel the influence of the moon, emotions may be close to the surface)
  • Ascendant in Cancer:
  • Sun in Cancer:
  • Sun in Capricorn
  • Moon in the 4th, 9th house:
  • Aspects to the Moon or Capricorn
  • Ascendant or Mid-heaven in Cancer

Got a Question?

E-mail grunge symbol,clean Stock Vector - 31854609

 

 

 Copyright Greta McKenzie Astrology 10/30/2015
SGC Admin Astrology Info, Astrology Notes, Moon Phase: Current Sun Sign:

The Moon and Astrology: How it affects our daily life…Transiting Full Moon in Gemini November 2015

The Moon and Astrology

HOW IT AFFECTS OUR DAILY LIVES… 

In astrology, the moon is connected to our emotions and reactions… how we are feeling on a given day may well be influenced by the sign that is visiting the moon… Each sign stays with the moon for up to 2.5 days…. :) 

The Moon Void-of-Course: 

There are times throughout the month when the moon isn’t fully immersed in any sign… this is when we say the moon is Void of Course… and when this occurs, we may feel “foggy” and “unfocused” … We may not be sure how we are truly feeling about a situation or a person…. Therefore it is not recommended that we make long-term commitments or important decision’s while the moon is Void of Course…. However there are 4 signs in the zodiac which may prove positive during the Void-off-Course moon… 

Good for Void-Of-Course Moon:

These v/c signs may prove to be quite productive times.

  • Cancer
  • Taurus
  • Sagittarius
  • Pisces…

Opportunity Periods  (thanks to astrologer Jim Shawvan):

There are other periods throughout the month that are known as opportunity periods, when it can prove to be a positive time for most people, however if you have challenging aspects happening within your own chart you may not be able to make use of opportunity periods. 

Thanks to Jim Shawvan present day astrologer, William Lilly 17th century astrologer and Llewellyn’s Daily Planetary Guide for opportunity periods.

Present Moon Sign/Phase/House:

gemini zodiac Stock Vector - 24336304
http://www.123rf.com: Copyright : funwayillustration
  • Date: November 25 to 27 2015
  • Moon Sign: Gemini:12:15 pm (ET) 9:15 am (PT)
  • Moon Phase: 2nd
  • Void-of-Course: November 26 @ 10:35 pm (ET) 7:35 pm (PT) to November 27 2:27 pm (ET) 11:27 am (PT)
  • House(s) 8th house of, sex, shared money & mergers, matters psychotherapy, surgery, and how we deal with loss/death.
  • Opportunity Period: None:

What does it all mean?

  • Gemini is an air sign and needs lots of stimuli. She is ruled by Mercury. 
  • We may find we are trying to do multiple things at once, which may not go exactly as we may have planned. 
  • Could be lots of chit chatting going on, and some of us may have to make a concerted effort to listen instead of chat.
  • Caution is advised when doing up letters, emails and relaying messages, as much as we may think we have it right, it’s better to check one more time
  • In the 8th house: Some folk may need some time to recuperate after surgery… hopefully the healing will be swift and complete. Dealings regarding our material security may be in focus. Could be a good time to check over insurance policies and finances. Those affected by this placing may be feeling more emotionally sensitive during this time. Patience may be required from those with Earth influences.
  • It’s a good time to get those lists and notes made up… we can feel good about putting pen to paper now.
  • Boredom may be at our door step and we may feel more restless than usual. 
  • This moon sign will have more of an effect on those who have the following in their charts. 
  • Moon in Gemini,
  • Sun in Gemini
  • Sun in Virgo
  • Moon in Sagittarius
  • Moon in the 8th house
  • Any aspects to the Moon, Mercury or Jupiter
Full moon Stock Photo - 27648707
http://www.123rf.com: Copyright : alexskopje

Full Moon in Gemini November 25 2015: 

  • The influence’s listed above will be intensified under the Full Moon… 
  • Gemini, is one of the dual signs of the Zodiac, she is ruled by Mercury, the planet of thought, communication and technology. And seeing that the moon governs our emotions, it’s likely we will be thinking a lot about our emotional needs. 
  • Gemini is connected to the 3rd house of communications, siblings and day-to-day affairs. 
  • Some folks will be very restless under this Full Moon, keeping busy, especially the mind in a positive way will help to still the restlessness. 
  • Stay away from negative folk who try to involve you in their negative thought pattern
  • Some folks may find they are doing lots of things at once, or they may feel they should be doing lots of things at once.. Only do what you can do, don’t get yourself in a pickle.. it’s o.k. not to be over achievers… :) 
copyright: Greta McKenzie Astrology: 10/30/2015