A river runs through it

Yes, more than 80% of the world‘s population relies on rivers for livelihood and yet they’re in a mess. A classic example of what we humans have done – or not done – to affect our environment and our climate. Action on that front gets the headlines this week, as does discussions in China and action Indonesia to recognise the importance of forests and trees as a means to cut emissions. We can all learn from the mistakes – and well-meaning intentions – of others, like how Europe has attempted to tackle emissions and manage energy. But more attention needs to be on incentives for clean tech and clean energy investment. This applies to Australia, where we are seeing our wave energy innovators go the way of our solar power pioneers – to greener pastures! Australia is showing some leadership in Green IT or is it ICT. Enough to rescue us?  And there’s some good advice on how to get Government aid for environmental projects, as well as news of attempts to innovate and act from unlikely places, like the Sunshine Coast with its Clean Futures event. October in Queensland promises to be fruitful – with a big outing for the Beyond Zero Emissions plan and Guy Pearse’s assault on the Smart State. Before that we have Victoria’s Premier extolling the virtues of his even smarter state and acting as host for the bigger than ever Carbon Expo in Melbourne next week.  For a clean diversion we have algae as automotive fuel, a new Nissan cleaner than ever and bamboo continues to makes a sustainable mark. Sara Phillips looks at the UK controversy over the overly-dramatic film encouraging climate change action. Is this seriously funny? Ken Hickson