Second, most pesticides don’t actually harm the plants - they usually (nowadays in developed countries at least) are very target-specific. This isn’t to say they aren’t bad for the environment - they are - but not usually for the plants.

Finally, while intercropping and other uses of >1 plant to reduce pest pressure have some effect on pest densities (usually because its harder for a pest to see a row of its host than a vast field), there is actually relatively little support that this increases the effectivity of beneficial insects.

Thus, I think your analysis is a bit simplistic, if a good intro for laymen. But importantly, you also don’t give any good solutions. Where is the discussion about biological control? About breeding resistant crops? About, dare I say it, the potential of transgenic crops to reduce pesticide use (sure it has its problems, but it can certainly reduce pesticide application)?

All this aside, good post. I’m glad to see this kind of thinking in blogs, with at least some science behind it.

Check out http://www.weedinfo.com.au/bk_weedsosea.html Check out the list of 2,000 species of so-called “weeds” where you will find scores of edible and otherwise useful plant species tarnished with the label of weed, ironically Brassica x napus (canola) but also ginger (Zingiber officinalis), coriander (Coriandrum sativum) and garlic (Allium sativum), 3 of my favourite foods. I was amazed to open the sample page (p.241) and see pumpkin, another one of my favourites. Why is pumpkin classified as a weed? Because it is “occasionally found naturalised in rubbish dumps or along roadsides”. I think the most amusing “weed” I found on the list though is Acacia pycnantha, the floral emblem of Australia.

The event organisers are concerned members of the community who have decided to hold a gathering to raise awareness about the role of animal agriculture in climate change. The whole event is completely non profit and organised by volunteers from throughout the community.

According to the Australian Government website, http://www.climatechange.gov.au/agriculture: “Greenhouse gas emissions from agricultural production represented approximately 16% of total national emissions in 2005…”

Due to the urgent need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and avert a climate catastrophe, the only immediate and effective solution is to reduce livestock numbers. A recent British study showed that 3 days no meat would have the same positive effect on reducing greenhouse gas emissions as replacing all household appliances, such as fridges, freezers, dishwashers and washing machines with energy efficient ones, insulating walls, installing double glazing, energy efficient boilers, and thermostats.

Individuals can make a difference. Take Action Against Climate Change

We are looking for speakers to inspire people to reduce their consumption of animal products, in order to:
* Reduce their carbon footprint
* Save water
* Reconnect with our planet
* Help protect wildlife and ecosystems
* Support local farmers and community

This will be a family-oriented day, with guest speakers, vegetarian food available, cooking classes, information stands and activities for children. We are encouraging people to ride their bikes or take public transport to the event.

As 4 October is World Animal Day, there will be a minute’s silence at 11am for the animals.

Event Details:
Love Earth Gathering
Esplanade Reserve Perth (near the Convention Centre)
Sat 4 Oct 2008
10am - 4pm

I would appreciate an RSVP by 5 September for organising. Earlier if possible. If you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact me on 0892447261 or 0447761265.

Yours sincerely,

Nigel Muecke
http://www.perthlovesearth.com http://www.loveearthgathering.com