Change your world with NLP linguistics

Have you ever thought just how powerful your words are? That’s right: every word that you use has meaning and influence over yourself and others. Words can be creative or destructive in your life, but many people don’t realise how influential their choice of language is in determining their own personal success. Of course, for those who have received NLP training in Birmingham from Opt2xl (http://www.opt2xl.co.uk), it’s a different story. They recognise that language is quite possibly the most powerful and creative tool on the planet.

Any given person effectively creates their world and their reality through language, and our NLP courses in Birmingham focus on how language can be consciously used to a more positive end and achieve the outcomes that people want. We train people like you to be more skilful in using language towards achieving personal and professional objectives,; whether you are a parent talking to a child or speaking to a business client over the phone or are an NLP coach yourself. We teach about language patterns, making clear where they come from, how they work and how they can be used to empower people.

Once upon a time, people hadn’t yet decided that there would be an A, then a B, then whole words strung together from letters to describe pictorial events. Ancient Egypt had much to do with the development of language, and the Egyptian race thought in more abstract terms than any other race in history. They believed in choosing the right words very consciously, to achieve the right results. Today, when you enrol on one of our courses that contains NLP coaching in Birmingham, you can learn their lessons, to such an extent that you can destroy mini-universes of past problems and create compelling futures.

Learning about language in the context of NLP allows you to get inside certain past events in your life that may have caused you trauma and then reframe them so that you learn from the past. Your feelings about these events are held together by language, and this language can be released, changing your feelings in the process. Those who train to be an NLP master practitioner in Birmingham with us get to go even further, learning how language naturally follows the laws of quantum physics, where one plus one almost never equals two. Sometimes, time can help your mind to passively witness and blow out past traumas, but with quantum linguistics and NLP, you can do this quickly, easily and gracefully.

Quantum linguistics helps you to reach the void where no problems can exist. You’ll learn how to use the structure of language to take apart difficult situations, in the knowledge that we live in a world of illusions that can be changed when the power of language is properly harnessed. It’s no accident that we use the word ‘spelling’ in reference to how letters are ordered in a word, because with each and every one of our words, we are casting spells that bring certain worlds into existence.

Although quantum physics is so much more complicated than we have the space to get into here, with the help of an NLP practitioner in Birmingham from Opt2xl (http://www.opt2xl.co.uk), you can learn how to use linguistics every day to create a better reality.

Editor’s Note: Opt2xl (http://www.opt2xl.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Minister stresses importance of 'getting WEEE system right

Many of those involved in WEEE recycling had an invaluable opportunity to listen to a Government minister on 1st May, on the subject of new regulations surrounding the recycling of waste electricals. Clients of Collect and Recycle (http://www.collectandrecycle.com) may be interested to read the comments of Michael Fallon, minister at the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) at the recent Reshaping the WEEE Regulations conference.

Fallon stated that the Government was working to ensure that it got right new regulations relating to electrical waste recycling, so that red tape was reduced in a way that was "best for business". The conference also saw an explanation of the changes that are being introduced so that the UK is in compliance with the Recast Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive, as well as the options that have been put forward by the Department so that businesses that need to comply with the regulation are not overly burdened.

It was last month when a consultation on the proposed changes was launched, and Fallon said that if the Government was to get new legislation 'right', it was important for those within the sector to comment.

He stated: "We in government have a vital role to play particularly in getting the regulatory environment right. This will be crucial to stimulating strong sustainable and balanced economic growth and providing the right conditions for businesses to grow." He observed that the UK discarded around 1.3 million tonnes of electrical equipment each year, a "rapidly" growing number that he described as "a huge amount".

Fallon said that a more sustainable economy could be created with the recycling and reuse of waste electricals, and that there were "very good reasons" for such an aim - including that "significant savings" could be made by businesses.

Describing regulation as potentially "an important tool", Fallon said that the right approach would ensure that the country meets its environmental objectives and complies with the revised WEEE Directive's obligations. He said that complaints from electrical equipment producers about how expensive it would be for them to comply had moved BIS to draw up proposals, with the Recast representing an opportunity to take action.

He added: "Our biggest challenge is to ensure we meet our obligations in a way that does not place an unnecessarily heavy burden on businesses. We have listened carefully to views expressed by stakeholders and these have played a vital part in helping us to shape the set of proposals on which we now seek your comments".

The consultation on the proposed changes to the WEEE disposal system ends on 21st June, with the Government planning the publication of a response within eight weeks. Here at Collect and Recycle (http://www.collectandrecycle.com), we will keep a close eye on developments and let you know of any updates - in the meantime, providing your business with a fully legal and efficient IT recycling service of the very highest standard.

Editor’s Note: Collect and Recycle (http://www.collectandrecycle.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

How to spot a good web design portfolio

A web design portfolio is to a web designer what an exhibition is to an artist: the chance to show off his or her work to the general public via a carefully selected cross–section of work. Just as artists’ exhibitions vary in quality so too do web design portfolios. So, here is how to spot a good web design portfolio.

Not too small

Although a good web designer will only show a sample of their best work a portfolio should not be too small. If there is only a handful of work on there then it’s likely the designer is new to the business and perhaps inexperienced. If in doubt ask to see some more links.

Variety of designs

Look for varied designs; if they all look the same you must ask yourself—do I want my site to look like all the others in this portfolio? If all the sites look very similar it may also be a warning to you that the designer bases all their designs on a single template (to save themselves time).

Variety of types

There are many types of websites. You can have simple brochureware websites, online shops, community sites, content–managed websites and many more. Does the portfolio demonstrate a range of skills in this area? If the designer has poor development skills you’ll find they’re all online brochures.

Variety of clients

Are the clients from different industries? If a designer has a niche market that’s fair enough if they’re not but be sure to check that you fall under that niche. Clients come in all shapes and sizes: creative people, tradespeople, small businesses, corporates, etc. Each one requires a different mind and skill set. Also, be wary of a designer who has done quite a few sites but all for the same client. You may find they are stuck in their ways.

Variety of skills

The are several facets to web design:

Design—Making the sites look nice and easy to use

Development—Programming the site to have interactive features such as news and shopping

Marketing—Getting the site to appear on search engines, converting visitors into clients/customers

Usability—Making the site intuitive and easy to use

Does the portfolio score highly on all counts?

Do the sites link to completed sites?

Make sure the sites in the portfolio are not just ‘concepts’. A concept is usually just a visual—a far cry from a finished site!

Testimonials

Also look around the site and see if the portfolio is backed up by testimonials. Check that the testimonials appear to be from legitimate companies and individuals.

About Tim Bennett

Tim Bennett is a web designer and developer from Leeds, England. After graduating from Leeds Metropolitan University with a First Class Honours Degree in Computing, he went on to work in both private and public sectors. After developing all web content for a small Internet Marketing agency in Yorkshire he went on to set up his own company, Texelate, offering web design in leeds. For more information visit www.texelate.co.uk or call +44 (0) 1274 621113.

Treat your staff with our office wellbeing services

It’s the holy grail for many a business owner: how do you not only motivate your employees to boost productivity and revenues, but also make them feel great about your own company, so that they are more likely to stick around for years to come? Well, you could try team-building events like the ubiquitous white water rafting, or maybe invest in a bit of corporate hospitality. But what could possibly better signify how personally you care for your staff, than beauty treatments encompassing the likes of facials and massages in London, from the experts at Milk Beauty (http://www.milkbeauty.co.uk)?

Once upon a time, any business owner would have looked with cynicism at a proposal to treat their employees to much more than a modest bonus, but increasingly, it’s being realised in the corporate world just how much offering a little pampering such as manicures in London or even facial peels could affect how firms are perceived by their own employees. In an age that sees staff loyalty at a historical low, bosses are open to all kinds of ways of making their staff feel good. When you choose the services of mobile beauty therapists Milk Beauty, your staff won’t even need to leave the office to receive their treatment.

That’s right: Milk Beauty is all about ease, convenience, impeccable service and results for you, the time-pressed and cash-deficient business owner. You don’t want to have to spend time trying to get everything organised when you have a core business that desperately needs your attention, so we have designed our services around those 21^st century needs. We deal with all of the administration of our services, with our automated payment and booking system taking away any responsibility for you to manage the therapist’s diary.

And of course, then there’s the high quality of the actual treatments to consider. An office massage could be all that your employees need to relieve their stress at a time of ever-pressing deadlines for mammoth projects, with our Swedish massage techniques temporarily reducing blood pressure and alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety. We employ only fully qualified, highly professional therapists who have worked in top salons across London. The brands that we use, too, are suitably high quality, and include Environ, OPI and Perron Rigot.

We are also fully insured and a member of BABTAC – so whether you’d like your employees to benefit from facials, manicures in London, hot waxing or something completely different, you can trust Milk Beauty (http://www.milkbeauty.co.uk) to provide a truly efficient and professional service that gets results. We’ll create the perfect salon environment in your own office, and once our work is done, we’ll battle the traffic while your employees turn their attentions back to your business.

Editor’s Note: Milk Beauty (http://www.milkbeauty.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Struggling to pick the perfect Venetian blind? Allow us to suggest some

Of all of the curtains and blinds that we stock here at Express Nets (http://www.expressnets.co.uk), we do have to admit to a soft spot for Venetian blinds. They are instantly recognisable by their horizontal slats that have long been highly effective at regulating the amount of light that enters a room. Such blinds are a common sight in offices, but advances in material technology and modes of manufacture have also helped to make them more decorative in recent years, further increasing their suitability for the home.

In fact, so daunting can it be to choose from the amazing range of Venetian blinds on sale today that we'd like to introduce you to some of the best in our own range here at Express Nets. Remember, though, that everyone's personal preferences are unique!

Harrison Drape hardwood Venetian blind

This attractive and contemporary-looking Venetian blind can be specified in charcoal, natural or white colours, as well as in widths ranging from 60cm to 180cm, making it suitable for so many areas of the home or office. This blind's 25mm slats are made from high quality finished hardwood, while buyers also get a complementary co-ordinating valance. It's also a blind that is easy to trim to size.

Swish cordless Venetian blind

If you want a truly modern blind for a truly modern home or office, then you may just fall in love with our next generation Swish cordless window blinds, which not only look effortlessly contemporary, but actually incorporate all manner of innovative touches. These include a bottom bar into which excess slat storage has been incorporated, as well as a lift and lower tab that takes the effort out of operation. Nor are there any free-hanging cords, which would otherwise be a hazard to young children.

Sunlover Mini wood blind

Those with an interest in modern, well-designed Venetian blinds that nonetheless exude a pleasing traditionalism are sure to be fans of our Sunlover Mini wood blinds, which use 25mm slats mounted onto a durable metal head rail. You can also trim the width of these blinds by as much as 75mm on each side, with other features including a control wand and cords.

Universal aluminium Venetian blind

When you want a blind that really exudes modernity, solidity and quality, an aluminium blind is sometimes all that will do. That's why we stock well-made aluminium Venetian blinds like this one, which combines a 160cm drop and stylish 25mm slats with a control wand and cords and top or face fittings. You have a choice of cream, silver or white colours, while the specified width can be as narrow as 45mm or as wide as 180cm.

With a choice like this from our industry-leading online store, you can be sure that even our relatively cheap blinds offer an enviable level of quality and style. Visit http://www.expressnets.co.uk today to see the complete current Venetian blinds range at Express Nets. 

Editor’s Note: Express Nets (http://www.expressnets.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

The most specialised needs catered for, by one supplier

For the many organisations that require some kind of telemetry installation, it may seem clear that highly specialised expertise is required from a company that is dedicated to providing such solutions in their particular industry. After all, they might reason that there can't possibly be high technology industrial services providers that are equally adept at catering for all of the telemetry needs that firms across so many industries may have - until, that is, they discover Oriel Systems (http://www.orielsystems.com).

Indeed, Oriel Systems caters for the various industries that could possibly benefit from its expertise in such areas as wireless tank monitoring, from the water and chemical industries to and the oil and gas and printing industries. It is true, too, that the requirements of such firms can drastically vary. A client in the water industry, for instance, may be especially attracted to the idea of an outstation that supports different pumping profiles, depending on their energy tariffs, while printing industry clients need to carefully keep track of levels of printing ink on sites that face great demand from newspapers.

Similarly, those in the chemical industry can have such highly specialised needs as the installation of galvanic isolation. Meanwhile, loading/uploading operations in the oil and gas industries have traditionally required two operatives, leading many organisations in these fields to consider a Driver Controlled Delivery (DCD) system that integrates the systems for on-site control, level monitoring and safety with on-site CCTV, so that only one man is required. Matters get even more complicated when it is considered that many organisations have existing telemetry equipment that they have already invested significantly in.

What is required by many such firms, then, is a provider of high technology industrial services that can be trusted to cater for these most exacting of needs. They require a company that can provide them with a telemetry or tank monitoring system that has a strong track record with regard to performance and reliability, in the form of a large installed user base worldwide. However, they also need the system to be scalable, cost-effective and quick and easy to install, in the face of ever-heightening national and even global competition. Also welcome is if this company's products can be connected to existing equipment.

Often, it may be assumed that the larger firms with the major track records are those that are less able to respond to the most precise needs pertaining to certain industries - but with more than 25 years of business behind it, Oriel Systems can offer the best of all worlds. It has a highly responsive and professional technical team that is seasoned at working on small and large projects alike, across the various industries. It has a manufacturing, research and development facility in south west England, maintains strategic alliances internationally and even possesses enviable telemetry software expertise.

By calling 01249 705070, clients across the aforementioned sectors can discover just how well-placed the telemetry engineers of Oriel Systems (http://www.orielsystems.com) are to respond to their most obscure demands.

Editor’s Note: Oriel Systems (http://www.orielsystems.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Combat acne with the right products from Gentlemen’s Tonic

Acne may be associated with teenagers, but it is also a problem affecting great numbers of men around the world – including many of the customers of the traditional male grooming products of Gentlemen’s Tonic (http://www.gentlemenstonic.com). Indeed, many of these products can be useful in the fight against acne, which has many causes – including some that are beyond the control of the acne sufferer.

Of course, given acne’s strong association with adolescence, it will not be a surprise for many to learn that hormones contribute to its development, with testosterone resulting in the production of more oil – sebum on the skin. The accumulation of sebum in hair ducts and pores results in inflammation, swelling and bacteria formation. Long periods of stress can imbalance hormone levels, resulting in skin problems, while acne is also known to be caused by certain drugs like lithium, androgens and barbiturates. Outbreaks can also occur after periods of sun exposure, and even diet has been suggested as a possible cause.

Those with severe acne would always be best-advised to discuss their options with a GP or qualified dermatologist – but for those that don’t have particularly serious acne, there are various courses of action that they can take. For example, the role of excess oil in the development of acne should convince sufferers of the importance of keeping their face clean regularly. Such people should use a mens foaming cleanser to wash their faces twice a day.

By washing their faces before going to bed each day, acne sufferers can eradicate surface pollution, dirt and grime, while those that are involved in physical activity or sport are advised to thoroughly cleanse their whole body at least once a day, in order to avoid blocked pores. A product like Gentlemen’s Tonic’s Gentle Body Wash is especially suitable for this, as it is a gentle formula that softens and conditions the skin and maintains its natural moisture balance.

It is also a good idea to use a good quality scrub at least twice a week so that the skin, and in particular the face, can be exfoliated. A good choice is the Gentlemen’s Tonic Exfoliating Facial Scrub, which helps to remove excess dirt and dead skin cells thanks to its naturally derived ingredients. Other good options include facial masks and acne gels, while moisturisers are also useful and as long as they are of a good quality, should not result in breakouts or overly oily skin – contrary to the popular perception. One such good quality option is the Gentlemen’s Tonic Daily Moisturiser, which is renowned for its soothing, rejuvenating and nourishing properties.

There are further options that acne sufferers can investigate, including herbal supplements. Nonetheless, Gentlemen’s Tonic (http://www.gentlemenstonic.com) offers a wealth of acne treatments in store, and stocks all of the other products that are essential to successful male grooming – from cleansers to Classic Shave Cream – for its loyal and appreciative customers.

Editor’s Note: Gentlemen’s Tonic (http://www.gentlemenstonic.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Ensuring mobility and independence with home care

As leading specialists in home care in Gloucester, here at Bramble Home Care (http://www.bramblehomecare.co.uk), our well-trained staff members understand the needs of people with restricted mobility as well as those that are coming to terms with the practicalities of ageing, illness or dementia. We provide tailored services designed around the specific needs of those that are being cared for, ranging from personal care and care escorts to palliative care and 24 hour live-in care.

While we provide practical support which includes helping people with shopping, daily household chores, cooking and cleaning, we also help to maintain their independence and quality of life at home for as long as possible. This can involve helping clients to use mobility equipment that they may have at home, providing our staff with training as to the correct manual handling techniques.

Here are just some examples of the mobility equipment which can help home care patients who have restricted mobility:

Access ramps

If your mobility is impaired to such an extent that you require a wheelchair or scooter, you’ll suddenly notice all of those entrances to buildings to which your access is impaired as a result of an abrupt change in level. For your home, you may wish to have a modular ramp installed, consisting of interlocking polyurethane tiles that provide a tough, but flexible semi-permanent solution. Portable wheelchair ramps are also available that can be moved quickly to wherever you need them.

Easy access showers

Of all of the rooms of the house that could possibly pose a threat to your independence, the bathroom surely has to top the list – which also explains the wide range of accessible bathroom facilities on the market, including bathing aids, bathlifts, shower stools and chairs and more. Many manufacturers are also specialising in easy access showers, helped by the fact that showers are already much easier to use than baths.

For ease of access, our experts in domestic care in Gloucester would recommend that you choose a shower tray that is low level or flush with the floor, with a textured surface to make slips much less likely.

Stairlifts

The humble stairlift has long been a godsend for many of those that receive help at home in Gloucester from us, as it gives them access to all areas of their home if they have a condition like arthritis that makes climbing stairs problematic. The fact that every staircase is different explains the existence of curved and outdoor stairlifts, as well as the better known straight stairlifts. They can also incorporate features like a hinged rail that folds up out of the way when not in use, or for maximum safety, pressure sensors that ensure that the lift stops if it encounters an obstacle.

As leading providers of home help in Gloucestershire, Bramble Home Care helps to ensure mobility, independence and quality of life at home for our clients for as long as feasibly possible. Find out more at http://www.bramblehomecare.co.uk.

Editor’s Note: Bramble Home Care (http://www.bramblehomecare.co.uk) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

The benefits of an IP CCTV system

We may well be best known for our quality fire safety equipment and fire alarm systems, but we also have a wealth of expertise in other systems which keep your home and business safe.  At Triple Star Fire (http://www.triplestarfire.com/), we know it’s not only fire you need to protect yourself from as a business. For protection from thieves outside or inside your business we all need vigilance, and our ranges of access control and intruder alarms are truly cutting edge, as is our selection of IP closed circuit television (CCTV) systems, which we would like to look at in more detail on today’s blog.

Customers of our state of the art CCTV systems can expect a safer and more productive working environment, as staff feel safe from the fear of crime and are more likely to abide by health and safety guidelines under the cameras watch. A reduction in false fraudulent insurance claims against employers is also a proven benefit, not to mention reduced thefts and the peace of mind remote monitoring gives you when you aren’t around to keep an eye on things yourself.

Basic CCTV cameras have been used to protect businesses since the 60s, back when a guard would have to vigilantly watch a monitor at all times. Luckily technology has come a long way since then and the days of managing large time consuming and labour intensive tape archives are over. Nowadays the latest CCTV systems have the  ability to automate intelligent surveillance, they can be viewed remotely, and shared via the internet bringing the day to day costs of security plummeting.

Indeed the benefits of this technology were proven back in late 2011 when a new system based on IP CCTV technology was rolled out across the UK following great success at Gordon’s Wine Bar in London’s Charing Cross. The ‘FaceWatch’ system provides a place for CCTV clips of thefts to be posted online effectively bridging the gap between a business’s CCTV and the police. Thefts are reported online and other retailers in the area are instantly warned, business’s using this system have reported a reduction of thefts by up to 90%.

Many businesses are now upgrading their CCTV systems to the IP version, with recent technology developments not only are the IP systems cost effective to maintain, they are also becoming cheaper to produce. When installed they are integrated with the current IT system and all footage can be viewed via the internet for ease of use.

We have CCTV security solutions for all sizes of businesses. At Triple Star Fire (http://www.triplestarfire.com/) we offer a free, no obligation, quotation on maintenance, installation and system upgrade of CCTV systems, as well as fire alarm systems and indeed, an overview of all of your fire alarm equipment.

Editor’s Note: Triple Star Fire (http://www.triplestarfire.com/) is represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Please direct all press queries to Louise Byrne. Email: louise@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Shikkuu Guides combines the best of online and offline shopping

In recent years there has been an increasing battle between the worlds of high street and Internet shopping – with the relative newcomer, the latter, apparently winning out. News headlines are blaze with the damage done to physical retailers by ‘showrooming’, the practice of finding a better deal for an item online after browsing for it in a high street store. People are increasingly asking about what Britain’s high streets will look like in years to come. In that context, where do the personalshopper services in London from Shikkuu Guides (http://www.shikkuuguides.com) fit in?

First of all, it’s important to appreciate that we Britons have definitely not fallen out of love with the high street. We still love perusing our favourite fashion retailers, not least because of the sheer physicality of sifting through those racks, not to mention the fact that you can actually try on your latest find straight away, and carry it out of the shop immediately after purchasing. You can admire yourself in the mirror in the store’s changing rooms, and make sure that the garment that has caught your eye truly reflects your own sense of style, in addition to fitting well on your body.

There are so many other benefits to shopping on the high street that our fashion stylists in London really make the most of. After all, not only do we offer personal shopper services, but also personal style and image sessions, colour consultations and group tours and parties. What could be better than getting together with your friends for a group shopping tour in London, discovering new areas and hidden gems with the help of an informed retail tour guide? It certainly beats huddling around a computer or looking at your tablet computers on a ‘girly night in’.

But of course, there’s no denying that online shopping has its conveniences, too. You can often find what you want straight away through Google, without having to walk even a few hundred yards from one store to another – helped by the ‘recommendations’ that fashion websites offer. The Internet is also renowned for the bargains that it can bring. But wouldn’t you prefer to combine the joys of both online and offline shopping, with genuinely tailored fashion ideas being suggested to you by a human being, not a ‘one size fits all’ computer? Well, that’s certainly what a style advisor in London from Shikkuu Guides can offer.

We can give you genuinely informed suggestions on the basis of your size, body type and fashion preferences, finding the best styles available for your budget. It allows you to experience the wind in your hair doing “real” shopping, discovering many of the great fashions that would have completely passed you by if you depended entirely on the Internet. Contact our stylists in London now at http://www.shikkuuguides.com for a well-priced personal shopper experience that appeals to both your head and your heart.

Editor’s Note: Shikkuu Guides (http://www.shikkuuguides.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

Find out more about our suppliers from India, Nepal and Bangladesh

Without trying to boost your ego too unduly, here at Yours Sustainably (http://www.yourssustainably.com), we think you’re pretty special. After all, you’re knowingly wandering off the beaten track of widespread corporate consumerism, instead embracing our own vision of sustainable, positive consumerism by browsing and potentially buying from our extensive selection of eco friendly gifts. As such, you’re likely to particularly care about where your purchases come from... so why don’t we tell you about some of our suppliers from India, Nepal and Bangladesh?

Of course, our full list of suppliers from this part of the world is just too long for us to discuss each one in detail in this article. But if we just select a few, Auroville, for example, describes itself as “a universal town where men and women of all countries are able to live in peace and progressive harmony above all creeds, all politics and all nationalities”. Sure enough, located near Pondicherry in South India, Auroville really is a community consisting of many different nationalities. With a commitment to sustainability, reforestation and renewable energy (among other priorities), it offers various printed sarongs and fabric and recycled paper necklaces in our online store.

Another valued supplier of ours from this part of the world is New Overseas Traders, which offers such earth friendly products as a butterfly notebook, elephant card holder, glitter mirror with pouch and Bollywood billboard apron. The company, which has been Fair Trade for more than a quarter of a century, sources, selects and imports various gifts and household items from India, with most of them having been reused or recycled in one way or another. We also have many handmade and offset picture books in our range of eco gifts, courtesy of the independent publisher based in Chennai, South India, Tara Books.

Or maybe you’re interested in one of the geometric woven eco bags or purses of AURA QUE? These stylish contemporary accessories are manufactured by the Nepal Fair Trade Group with the aim of boosting the developing nation of Nepal’s ethical production. The factory is run on fair trade principles, with local people – some affected by disabilities – being employed there and provided with a decent income for themselves and their families. Wherever possible, local Nepalese materials are incorporated into the company’s products, which are also individually hand crafted – all of which only adds to the charming individuality of each bag or purse.

There are so many more suppliers from the India, Nepal and Bangladesh areas that we could mention, from Maison Bengal and Best Years to Nkuku and ALKEMI, all of which have their own fascinating story to tell. But perhaps it is best to appreciate such suppliers by the stunning sustainable gifts that they produce? Get browsing the Yours Sustainably (http://www.yoursustainably.com) online store now to find out more, and don’t forget that we deliver all orders over £50 completely free.

Editor’s Note: Yours Sustainably (http://www.yoursustainably.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

BIS consults on changes to WEEE compliance system

Yesterday (April 17), in news that will interest many of the IT recycling clients of Collect and Recycle (http://www.collectandrecycle.com), the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) launched its eagerly awaited public consultation on how the recast waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) directive is to be implemented by the government from 2014 onwards.

The consultation period will last for nine weeks, during which stakeholders, including of electronic equipment producers and recyclers, are encouraged to submit their views on how the WEEE compliance system can be overhauled. BIS has indicated two preferred options: setting compulsory targets for compliance schemes or Designated Collection Facilities (DCFs) being centrally allocated for schemes. The adoption of either of these two options would represent a complete change of the current process, whereby schemes can trade evidence and compete for council contracts.

There are three sections into which the consultation has been divided, with the first outlining the government’s plans with regard to the implementation of the changes that are needed so that the requirements of the recast WEEE Directive are brought into UK law. These changes include the implementation of higher collection targets and Regulations of a wider scope. The second section focuses on how businesses that need to comply with the regulation can have their administrative burden lessened, as well as how the cost of compliance can be reduced. Section three is devoted to alterations to the power of entry provisions related to WEEE Regulations enforcement.

As many of those involved in electrical waste recycling are already aware, BIS had previously outlined proposals for three possible alternative producer compliance systems, as well as a fourth option to leave the current system unchanged. Of the three ‘change’ options, it was revealed in the consultation notes that BIS favoured either matching collection sites to collection schemes, or setting targets for compliance schemes, charging a “compliance fee” in the event of them not being met. Another option is to introduce a ‘National Producer Compliance Scheme’ rather than encourage current compliance schemes to compete.

Another intention of the proposals is to make the compliance system simpler for small producers which do not meet a ‘de minimis’ threshold of WEEE placed onto the market, as well as to give local councils more flexibility as far as the maximisation of the potential income from WEEE recycling collections is concerned.

Michael Fallon, business and energy minister, commented on the consultation’s launch that “we always seek to implement EU law in the least burdensome and most business-friendly way in consultation with industry. Simplifying compliance and cutting red tape are underlying principles behind this consultation.”

The consultation runs until June 21, with the government planning to publish its response within eight weeks, while January 1, 2014 are when the new regulations are expected to come into force. Collect and Recycle (http://www.collectandrecycle.com) will keep its clients updated on the latest changes to the law concerning WEEE disposal, and always keeps within the law in the provision of its own computer recycling services.

Editor’s Note: Collect and Recycle (http://www.collectandrecycle.com) are represented by the search engine advertising and digital marketing specialists Jumping Spider Media. Email: info@jumpingspidermedia.co.uk or call: +44 (0)20 3070 1959 / +34 952 783 637.

The Technologies Behind Your Acctim Clock

Acctim, being one of the best known and most trusted brands of alarm clocks around, have made it their business to develop and use the latest technologies available in their exciting range of clocks. At Ryness (http://www.ryness.co.uk/) we are sure that our customers of LED light bulbs who are used to our expertise in the lighting business will appreciate the equal expertise shown by this brand in their own field. Here we would like to focus on three different types of time keeping technology and how Acctim have utilised them.

Quartz Technology is the product of continued work through the ages to improve the accuracy of timekeeping, using the resonating nature of the quartz crystal to provide a constant electronic signal which is ideal for keeping time. The first time keeping piece using quartz technology was created in 1927 and today it is the world’s most widely used time keeping technology due to its accuracy and inexpensive nature, it is featured in many computers as well as clocks. For just £9.99 reduced from £11.99 we have the Acctim 160mm Button Wall Clock with quartz movement technology. This stylish clock features a spun metal dial, metal case and built in stand, its smooth finish and no fuss look would be at home in any school or business premises.

As well as utilizing the latest time keeping technologies, Acctim clocks have also created one of their own, developing and patenting the intuitively clever ‘Smartlite’. This eco-friendly electricity or battery saving feature switches on a gentle back light when your room is dark so the clock can be seen, then automatically turns it off when it’s light. The Acctim Smartlite Sweeper Alarm Clock (£24.99) has this handy feature as well as non-ticking sweeping second hand and crescendo alarm. As does the Acctim 13253 Smartlite Travel LCD Alarm (£11.99) which also has snooze and an extra bright back light for easy viewing.

Radio controlled clock technology is now used in all kinds of time keeping devises from wall and desk clocks to travel alarms and beautiful wrist watches. Their accuracy cannot be denied for they’re always right. As long as they are in working order they display the correct time down to the exact second, they achieve this by having a radio inside which receives a signal direct from an atomic clock situated elsewhere. The Acctim Millau Radio Controlled Travel Alarm (£7.99 reduced from £12.50) uses this technology and is available from Ryness. It has full automatic setup so it will be ready to use as soon as the batteries are inserted and also automatically adjusts for summer/winter time changes.

As you can see, Acctim has an array of inventive time keeping devices to suit all needs which we at Ryness (http://www.ryness.co.uk/) think reflects our own innovative nature. They are specialists in their field as are we with our unrivalled variety of LED light bulbs and other cheap lightbulbs available across the UK.