RecogniseMag

A-dressing domestic violence

2011-08-08T10:04:00.000-07:00

Fashion designer Henry Holland for Designers at Debenhams has created a new charity range of men’s t-shirts in support of ‘The Real Man Campaign’ – a national campaign launched by Women’s Aid to combat domestic violence.

The t-shirts, which carry the slogan “I’m a real man”, have been adopted by celebrities including DJ Reggie Yates (pictured), Spurs striker Jermain Defoe, and pop-band Westlife, to show their support for the fight against abuse.

Physical, emotional and sexual violence against women and children is a devastating international issue. Globally, about one in four women and girls are beaten or sexually abused in their lifetime, while at least 750,000 children witness domestic abuse each year. Women’s Aid provides crucial support and protection for those suffering from domestic violence. With 124,895 women and 54,370 children using Women’s Aid refuge and outreach services between 2009 and 2010, fundraising and charitable donations are vital in the fight against abuse.

The Real Man Campaign invites male role models to publicly criticise violence against women, asking ‘Real Men’ to help promote the message that real men do not abuse or control women.

England International and Harlequins Rugby Player Danny Care says; "While it can be aggressive playing rugby, the aggression doesn't leave the rugby pitch. A Real Man doesn't need to use violence or be abusive to others, especially towards his partner and family. I am proud to support the Women's Aid Real Man campaign."

The ‘Real Man’ range of charity t-shirts are a way to raise awareness about this furtive issue. The profits from the sale of the t-shirts go directly to Women’s Aid, and are available exclusively at Debenhams stores and online at www.realmancampaign.com

And don’t worry girls, you can also show your support by wearing an “I’m a fan of a real man” t-shirt.

Why not show your support by signing the Real Man Pledge for Women’s Aid by the 25th November - the International Day to Eliminate Violence Against Women. We here at Recognise have!

We hit Timberland's Power Camp at Camp Bestival

2011-08-04T07:06:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we were the very lucky guests of Timberland at Camp Bestival in Dorset where we spent most of the time lounging around on the very comfy bean bags on the upper ‘deck’ of the Timberland Power Camp stand which had pride of place right in front of the main stage.

Timberland Power Camp is a construction made entirely of recycled wood from shipping containers and rubber from old tyres, designed to show to the public what the brand is doing for the environment.

As a brand whose products are all designed for the outdoors, their ethos is about protecting the environment and making products in a responsible manner. The footwear is made entirely with this ethos in mind, with the soles made from 40% recycled rubber and the lining from old plastic bottles.

We were very kindly given some Timberlands to wear during the festival, and we can safely say that they are some of the comfiest footwear we have ever worn. I know that Sarah (our fashion editor) will be wearing her Timberland sandals when she is running about London!

As well as lounging on the bean bags we did have a go at blending our own smoothies at the Power Camp, not by hand, but by powering the blender on an exercise bike. Although it sounds a bit bizarre it was the perfect way to educate the children at Camp Bestival about renewable energy and how much energy it takes just to make a smoothie. It did seem worth it in the end as my passion fruit smoothie went down very well in the heat.

For children with an abundance of energy, and not lazy journalists like us, there was the opportunity to have a go at running on the log rolls for 6 minutes which made enough energy to power a kettle. Tea, coffee and hot chocolate were all on the menu for those who had the stamina.

The Power Camp was a brilliant, interactive and informative way of showing the younger generation the importance of renewable energy and at the same time showing that Timberland are as much about protecting the environment as they are about the famous yellow boot.

The Big Audition

2011-07-27T03:53:00.000-07:00

Last night we went down to the Pizza Express Jazz Club in Soho to watch an intimate gig with Jamie Cullum to celebrate the launch of The Big Audition.

The Big Audition is an opportunity for budding musicians to get their big break into the music industry with the winner getting a master class from Jamie Cullum himself, the opportunity to perform at the Pizza Express Jazz Club, and a £5000 prize to kick start their career.

During the gig, fans could Tweet in their song requests which ranged from The White Stripes, Seven Nation Army to Stephen Sondheim’s musical classic, ‘Not while I’m around,’ Those who were not Cullum fans at the beginning of the night were certainly converted after his off the cuff set. Seemingly Jamie can play literally anything without even knowing the song, (although he did sing the same verse of The White Stripes three times, which just meant we could all sing along!) The most touching part of the evening was Jamie’s tribute to Amy Winehouse, who also started her career at the jazz club. He played his own version of Amy’s song, ‘Love is a Losing Game,’ before pointing out where Amy had scribbled on the wall in the dressing room.

The founder of Pizza Express, Peter Boizot is a huge music fan and set up the jazz club so people could enjoy music while they ate- ingenious! The venue itself always has an amazing line up of people playing, from new up and coming acts, to the old cronies so is well worth a visit.

The competition is not just open to jazz musicians, it is for anyone who wants to try and get their name out there into the world of music. To enter, upload a clip of yourself playing/singing to Pizzaexpress.com/thebigaudition and Jamie and the team will judge the best of the bunch.

The Damage of Denim

2011-07-26T02:04:00.000-07:00

The Italian fashion giant Versace is the latest brand to support the movement to end sandblasting – a process that is used to give clothes like denim a fashionable, ‘worn’ look, but which campaigners say destroy workers’ lungs.

The process was prohibited in Britain in 1950, yet some of the world’s poorest textile workers are still performing the technique manually, which critics blame for the irreversible lung disease Silicosis. ‘Sandblasting’shoots a high-powered jet of silica at denim, which may make the fabric look shabby-chic but which can also have a damaging effect on the workers’ health as they breathe in air-born particles. According to US government scientists, victims' lungs can become inflamed and filled with fluid, which causes breathing problems and low oxygen levels in the blood.

This month, Versace issued a statement that encouraged the elimination of sandblasting as an industry practice. Other big names such as H&M and Karen Millen have also pledged to stop selling sandblasted products.

Versace’s new position is brilliant news in this campaign for workers’ safety standards. However, since many countries fail to properly enforce legislation to protect their workers, complete prevention of this health-damaging technique is near impossible without a global boycott on sandblasted products.

The Real Cost of Medicine

2011-07-26T01:58:00.000-07:00

The Academy of Medical Sciences has published a report that demands better regulation of experiments on Animals Containing Human Material (ACHM) in scientific research.

Animals that contain human tissues, cells or genetic information are used in medical research since they can better represent human disease. For instance, by putting human breast tumor cells into mice, researchers were able to test cancer drugs on human tissue.

However, such controversial testing has divided public opinion, and whilst most medical groups consider it a vital part towards understanding and treating human illnesses, many religious bodies and animal welfare groups condemn the practice as unethical.

Animal research is currently regulated by the Home Office’s animal procedures committee. However, Professor Martin Bobrow, chair of the Academy of Medical Sciences, said: “Our report recommends that the Home Office puts into place a national expert body, within the stringent system of animal research regulation, to provide specific advice on sensitive types of ACHM research”.

Such ‘sensitive’ types of experiments that were of concern to both the public and the scientific community could involve modifying non-human primates to create what are perceived to be uniquely human-like behaviors, although Professor Bobrow stressed that nobody had done anything like this as yet, and were they to go ahead, such experiments would require strong scientific justification.

Such an area of research has the potential to provide significant advances to medical treatments, but at what social and ethical cost? The study by The Academy of Medical Sciences recommended that the UK should lead the effort to raise international awareness of testing on Animals Containing Human Material, and should promote consistency in research practices.

The government said it would consider the recommendations.

EU Commission work towards sustainable Biofuel production

2011-07-21T01:08:00.000-07:00

The European Commission has approved seven schemes that were established to guarantee that biofuels used in the EU are produced in an environmentally sustainable way.

A biofuel is any kind of fuel produced from organic matter – from living things or from the waste they produce. This is a long and diverse list, but includes wood chips, straw, biogas (methane) from animal’s excrement and liquid fuels made from processing plant material. As an alternate technology source, Biofuels are a part of the EU strategy to cut CO2 emissions.

However, recently, the term “Biofuel” has come to refer more exclusively to the last category – to ethanol and diesel that is produced from crops including corn, sugarcane and rapeseed. This method of production is controversial because the crops need to be grown specifically for biofuel production, which means that in some countries they have replaced forests, which harms biodiversity, while the space allotted to their farming is seen as a rival to food crops.

The EU Energy Commissioner, Guenther Oettinger, said that the damaging side effects of biofuel production were “a real concern…particularly in the big producing countries, South-East Asia and South America”.

The EU Commission’s new schemes aim to tackle these concerns by promoting a sustainable and regulated production of biofuels. Commission data indicated that in 2007, roughly 26% of biodiesel and 31% of bioethanol used in the EU was imported, mostly from Brazil and the US. Biofuel producers will now have to verify how and where their crops are grown, and those farmed on land that used to be forest or wetland will not qualify.

Companies importing or producing biofuels will be required to prove that they meet the EU’s strict criteria. To be approved, the Commission requires that biofuels emit at least 35% less greenhouse gases then fossil fuels such as petrol, though this minimum is set to increase in the next few years.

Conservation on Camera

2011-07-19T07:43:00.000-07:00

British actors Bill Nighy and Gemma Arterton will appear in a captivating new short film this summer which highlights the work of leading conservation charity WWF. Written by the critically acclaimed writer-director Stephen Poliakoff and directed by BAFTA award winner Charles Sturridge, the 5-minute movie ‘Astonish Me’ introduces some of the world’s lesser known or recently discovered species. The film uses both real images and special effects to portray wildlife as diverse as massive insects and colossal squid, a fish with a transparent head and a rainbow of birds and frogs.

Colin Butfield, Head of Campaigns for WWF-UK and Executive Producer of ‘Astonish Me', said that the film:

“shows that the natural world is every bit as magical and surprising as the fictional world you might see in a Hollywood film. We know about less than a tenth of the species that we suspect are out there and I really hope this film inspires a new generation of conservationists to be curious about the natural world and to want to protect it.”

WWF is one of the world’s largest independent conservationist organisations, with a global network that is active in more than 100 countries. They work to tackle the most serious environmental issues facing our planet and focus on safeguarding the natural world, so that both people and nature can thrive. 2011 is WWF’s 50th anniversary year, and ‘Astonish Me’ is a great way to both celebrate the successes of WWF so far and also get people excited by the splendid variety of nature so that they are interested in tackling the challenges of the future. Although approximately 15,000 new species are discovered every year, we are also losing species and habitat at an alarming rate, and many of the new species that scientists discover are already on the verge of extinction.

‘Astonish Me’ will be screened in Odeon cinemas across the country from the 29 July 2011, and to celebrate the film and WWF’s 50th anniversary, WWF is offering a family of four the chance to win a conservation experience at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute, one of the world's most prestigious research centres for deep-sea exploration in California. To enter the competition please visit Wwf.org.uk/astonishmecompetition

Sex and the City star Kristin Davis Lends Her Support to the Oxfam Kenya Appeal

2011-07-13T15:35:00.000-07:00

Kirstin Davis visits Dadaab Refugee Camp

Africa is currently experiencing the worst drought in over 60 years, leaving more than 12 million people in East Africa desperate for food, water and healthcare. Due to the lack of rain, families across Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya are struggling to find nourishment. As a result of the rainless seasons livestock has perished in the order of hundreds of thousands and food prices have sky-rocketed.

Sex and the City star, Kristin Davis, has decided to put her fame and recognition to good use for the cause. For the past six years Davis has worked with Oxfam, traveling to various regions of Africa to help publicise the humanitarian issues there. Her most recent trip brought her to Tanzania and then to northeast Kenya to visit the Dadaab Refugee Camp to help with disaster relief efforts. Kenya recently declared the drought a national disaster, with more than 1,400 people a day arriving at the camp.

Davis, along with Oxfam, are now urging major strides be taken to aid the East African food system. Farmers and communities have been devastated by the crisis, while their governments have done little to help alleviate the situation. Small-scale food producers have not received adequate investment to help them through such hardship and plans to protect vunerable people were not strong enough to work. Because this problem has continued for so long, food prices are now out of reach for most of the population, leaving people hungry and without hope.

Oxfam is taking action to respond to this emergency by seeing that more is done to address the problem. They see issues such as this as a wake-up call to governments, and to the international community as a whole, and are currently appealing for £50 million, their largest appeal for Africa to date. Oxfam’s GROW Campaign proposes more investment in small-scale food producers as well as better support for those who are being neglected by their governments.

Donations to the Disasters Emergency Committee in the UK have steadily risen, bringing the DEC appeal total to £9 million so far. Chief Executive of the Disasters Emergency Committee, Brendan Gormley said, “It’s heartening to see that the UK public is continuing support for the appeal since it was launched last Friday and we need to keep this momentum going as the crisis continues to unfold.”

For more information on how to help provide food, water and healthcare or to donate visit, www.dec.org.uk.

FISHED AND DIMINISHED

2011-07-11T09:43:00.000-07:00

Two more species of Tuna have been added to the Red List of Threatened Species following a global assessment of the health and vulnerability of families of fish including tuna and swordfish. Of the 61 species of fish evaluated in this report, seven types were designated vulnerable, endangered or critically endangered. These join the Southern Bluefin tuna which is already listed as critically endangered.

Kent Carpenter, one of the study’s authors and the World Conservation Union’s Marine Biodiversity Manager, said that “Southern Bluefin numbers have reached levels that are one twentieth of those recorded before industrial fishing began”.

All of these species of fish suffer from over-fishing, habitat loss and pollution. Tuna are highly migratory fish that cross the waters of various countries, so even if a complete fishing ban were imposed in an attempt to tackle the problem of over-fishing, it would take global co-operation to enforce. Ultimately this decision is unlikely to be reached – per kilo the Bluefin tuna is the most expensive seafood in the world and these high prices mean there is a lack of resolve to tackle the problems posed by overfishing. However, even if legislation won’t be put in place consumers can drive down demand for the fish by simply not buying tuna until such a day as their stocks are healthy again.

Wake up to fairtrade...coffee.

2011-07-04T07:25:00.000-07:00

Nespresso Ecolaboration with The Rainforest Alliance

The premium coffee producer Nespresso has launched its latest special edition coffee, ‘Dhjana’, which is the first limited edition blend to be sourced entirely from farms within the Nespresso AAA Sustainable Quality Programme. This scheme works directly with the Rainforest Alliance to help protect both the future of the environment and the livelihoods of the coffee farmers.

Many coffee farmers, especially smallholders, are vulnerable to volatile marketing conditions for coffee, unpredictable weather patterns and rising farm management costs, while poverty and urbanisation in certain coffee growing regions also make it difficult for coffee growers to plan for the future. The AAA Programme provides support and technical training to coffee growers to help increase productivity, which benefits growers economically and socially. They also pay a premium of about 15% above that of coffees of a similar quality, which puts more money directly into the pocket of the coffee farmer and helps to guarantee a long-term relationship.

The AAA Programme also enables farmers to adopt more sustainable agricultural practises, which go a long way towards protecting our planet. Nespresso growers are close to meeting the standards required for Rainforest Alliance Certification, which protects both the natural environment and the lives of its workers, and once this certification has been achieved farmers can charge a premium even for the coffee they choose not to sell to Nespresso. Nespresso aim to source 80% of its coffee from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms by 2013.

In addition to this, by 2013 Nespresso intend to put systems in place that have the capacity to recycle 75% of its aluminium capsules. Ultimately, it will be up to the consumer to use these facilities and see that this recycling does happen, but as a company, Nespresso do seem to be leading the charge towards sustainability.

Gucci’s Green Scene

2011-07-04T04:31:00.000-07:00

Gucci and specialist eyewear brand Safilo are breaking new ground to bring eco-sustainable materials to the luxury eyewear market. In August 2011 they will introduce four new acetate eyewear styles developed from a new version of acetate containing much higher amounts of natural ingredients compared with traditional forms of acetate. The companies are also currently working to develop a prototype made from a plastic alternative.

“With Safilo we felt it was time to take the initiative on our shared commitment for increased sustainability within the luxury sector. These eyewear models represent an important step forward in finding new and innovative ways to embrace sustainability in our manufacturing processes,” said Patriziodi Marco, Gucci president and CEO.

The Gucci Eyeweb collection will also release new styles of sunglasses for men and women set in natural materials and made from castor-oil seeds. Nature-friendly packaging, which will accompany the new collections, will be introduced early 2012.

We here at RECOGNISE applaud Gucci and Safilo’s dedication to embrace sustainability in luxury markets; however, if they can make a few versions of their eyewear sustainable, why not make the whole collection using eco-friendly materials? Something to think about Gucci!

For more info visit : Gucci.com

ELEN RIVAS FOR PETA: 'BULLFIGHTING IS CRUEL!'

2011-06-30T06:53:00.000-07:00

Spanish model, Elen Rivas has posed naked for an anti bullfighting campaign fronted by the animal rights organisation, PETA. The advert, which includes a strap line of ‘The Naked Truth: Bullfighting is cruel’ hopes to spread awareness of the evil associated with the sport and encourage for it to become completely banned.

Ms Rivas told The Metro yesterday: “Most Spaniards – including those in my hometown of Barcelona, where bullfighting was recently banned – are opposed to the barbaric blood sport, and PETA and I are urging British tourists not to be fooled by the industry's propaganda.”

…And here at RECOGNISE we couldn’t agree more: If you are to vacation in Spain this summer then we urge you to remember that Bullfighting is cruel!

GLASTONBURY 2011... (in pictures!)

2011-06-29T04:15:00.000-07:00

Presumed Consent is not “Consent”.

2011-06-29T03:29:00.001-07:00

Since 1999, the British Medical association has been campaigning for a “presumed consent” system for organ donation, where all people will be assumed to be willing to donate their organs in the event of their death unless they have opted out of the scheme. Currently, people in Britain must actively join the NHS Organ Donor Register. According to NHS Organ Donation statistics, 3,709 organ transplants were carried out in the UK last year, while an additional 3,099 people had their sight restored through a cornea transplant. Many supporters of the presumed consent system believe it would boost organ-donation rates and therefore offer a better quality of life to the approximate 8,000 people still on the waiting list.

However, critics of the scheme claim that it could damage the trust patients place in medical staff. Dr Sharon Blackford, a dermatologist from Swansea, challenged the support for presumed consent by claiming that a move to presumed consent could damage trust in doctors. “If someone is ill in intensive care, families may feel doctors just want to harvest the organs”.

Under the British Medical Association’s suggestions, families would still be able to object to organ donation even if their relative had not opted out of the system. Ultimately, however, surely this would mean that the “consent” being given were that of the family, not of the individual? While the scheme may encourage people to be less apathetic in their decision to donate, or not donate, organs, to presume consent is surely necessarily not to ask for it. Instead of forcing people who do not wish to donate their organs to opt out, perhaps more should be done to educate and encourage individuals who may wish to become organ donors to take the time to do so.

For more information about organ donation, visit www.organdonation.nhs.uk

Peace One Day concert at the O2 Arena

2011-06-27T07:56:00.000-07:00

This year sees the 10th anniversary of Global Peace Day, held on September 21st and formally established in the international calendar as an annual day of ceasefire and non-violence by the United Nations General Assembly. Yet can one day of enforced peace compensate for 364 other days of war, domestic abuse or violent crime, for instance? The worldwide day of peace neither exempts the world from its violent actions, nor claims to do so. This one day is more than just another day, as it provides a platform for individuals to show their support for the peace process, and get more directly involved.

Global Peace Day was realised in part through the efforts of Jeremy Gilley, who founded the Peace One Day film project in 1999 to document his attempts to create an annual, international day of peace. With the day now in place, Peace One Day’s current aim is to institutionalise Peace day across the world so that it becomes self-sustaining. This year a concert will be held at the O2 Arena on Global Peace Day to support and raise awareness about the Peace One Day campaign, featuring artists such as Eliza Dolittle, Youssou NDour, Afroreggae, Flawless and the English National Ballet, with further acts still to be announced.

Jeremy Gilley is now calling for and working towards a Global Truce on Peace Day in 2012. “We have a clear strategy and we hope this will be the largest reduction in global violence in recorded history, both domestically and internationally. This day is as much about non-violence in our schools, our homes, workplace and local communities as it is about ceasefire on the international stage.” Gilley will be speaking at the O2 Arena show, which is set to launch a 365 day countdown to Global Truce.

Millions of people were active on Peace Day in 2010, in all 192 UN member states, and Peace One Day aims to have 500 million active participants, and 3 billion people aware of Peace Day, by 2012. On Peace Day in 2010, 28 organisations carried out 88 humanitarian activities across 31 countries. For instance, in Afghanistan, WHO/UNICEF/Afghan Ministry of Public Health vaccinated over 50,000 children and women in 23 locations against all vaccine-preventable diseases.

Mary Robinson, then the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, said in a filmed interview with Jeremy Gilley; “My experience of conflict is that those who are involved in it long for even a day of peace. To have a day of cessation of violence, that to me is an idea whose time has come”.

It may only be one day in the year, but Global Peace Day also functions as a catalyst for a range of civil society actions, both by organised groups and by individuals. Perhaps one day can get people from all sectors of society, from governments to individuals, to think about and react against the impact violence has on all of us every day.

Tickets are on sale now for the Peace One Day O2 Arena concert.

THE TICKS DON’T LIE: SHAKIRA CALLS FOR GLOBAL EDUCATION EQUALITY

2011-06-23T04:49:00.000-07:00

World famous pop star, and debut RECOGNISE magazine cover star, Shakira was in Jerusalem recently to address the Israeli Presidential Conference. In front of world leaders, journalists, economists, scientists and innovators she discussed the need for a free, quality education for all children, especially girls.

Shakira, as UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, visited the Max Payne “Hand in Hand” School for Bilingual Education in Jerusalem to meet with students to talk about the power of education. The project hopes to build peace and promote equality by mixing the classes with both Palestinian and Jewish students. The classes are taught by two teachers, one Palestinian and one Jewish, and are taught in both Arabic and Hebrew.

“Investing in education is the best strategy for peace and global stability”, she said during her visit, part of her ongoing work as an advocate for global education. According to UNESCO’s 2011 Global Monitoring Report, there are still 67 million primary-school age children out of school globally today, with the numbers falling too slowly.

It’s work like this that made Shakira our number one choice for our first ever cover. Being an amazing beauty outside as well as in helped too!!

For more on the work of UNICEF visit http://www.unicef.org.uk/ and get closer to the Colombian siren at http://www.shakira.com/

GLASTONBURY FESTIVAL 'GREEN TRAVELLER' INITIATIVE

2011-06-21T08:24:00.000-07:00

Glastonbury Festival has long been committed to reducing carbon emissions, protecting the local environment and raising awareness about climate change. A team of volunteers manage waste collection on the site, and last year saw 49% of this rubbish recycled. A high level of bio-diversity is maintained on the festival site by protecting vulnerable habitats through non-public zones and by planting native trees and hedges. In 2005, a temporary 3 acre reserve was created to protect a deer that emerged near the Pyramid Stage, from which it emerged unscathed at the end of the festival. All Glastonbury Festival t-shirts are printed using water based (non-pvc) inks and vegetable dyes, all cutlery used by market stalls must be wood, not plastic, all cups and plates are made from a compostable material and in 2004 a composting initiative was introduced to minimise the amount of waste that is sent to landfills.

Glastonbury are also investing in renewable power and low energy solutions by using a combination of “Orion” solar generators and modern PA and LED technology where possible. This green technology at the Festival will save over a tonne of carbon emissions this year.

In addition to these numerous commitments to limiting the environmental impact of the festival, this year sees the advent of Glastonbury Festival’s “Green Traveller” initiative. To help lower carbon emissions and to raise awareness about the need to tackle climate change, the Festival is supporting people who choose to come to Somerset by public transport or bicycle. Over 50% of Glastonbury Festival’s CO2 emissions come from how the Festival goer makes their way to the site, so ticket holders who arrive at the Festival by public transport or bicycle will be given a Green Traveller lanyard. This rewards their journey with ways to make their Festival experience slightly more comfortable, such as vouchers for discounts on food and access to solar showers and compost toilets. They aim to get a third of Festival goers to arrive by train or coach – and perhaps encourage them to think about how they use their cars for the rest of the year too.

ALOUD WELCOME FOR CHERYL COLE CHARITY DRESS AUCTION

2011-06-20T06:15:00.000-07:00

Singer Cheryl Cole has donated 11 dresses to auction to raise funds for The Cheryl Cole Foundation. Money raised will go to support youth charity The Princes Trust, and will be targeted at vulnerable 16-30 year olds in the North East, such as those who are leaving care, are long term unemployed or are educational underachievers. Through her Foundation, Cheryl hopes to show disadvantaged young people that someone believes in them. The ‘Lowest Unique Bid’ Auction, hosted by ASOS, means that the lowest monetary amount not bid by anyone else will win the auction, so potentially an outfit worn by Cheryl on the X-Factor, or with band-mates in Girls Aloud, could be snapped up for as little as 1p!

TRADE IN YOUR BANANA HAMMOCKS!!

2011-06-16T05:27:00.000-07:00

This year Speedo is launching a ‘swimwear amnesty’ at The British Gas Big Dip events in the summer to help raise funds for charity. The aim is for people to donate items of unwanted swimwear or goggles to Speedo who will then provide a discount on the cost of new swimwear items purchased from the Speedo Stand at the Big Dip.

For each item of men’s/boy’s swimwear, participants will receive a £5.00 discount, and a £10.00 discount for ladies items donated. In addition unwanted goggles can be donated in return for a special £5.00 reduction on new goggles. The best part is, for every tonne of swimwear and accessories collected Speedo will donate £1,000 to Cancer Research UK.

The British Gas Big Dip will be held at Clapham Common, London (June 18th – July 17th) and Spinningsfield Square, Manchester (July 30th – August 29th). Head on down to your nearest Big Dip for what promises to be one of the family entertainment highlights of the summer - all in a good cause!

For more information about tickets and time slots go to: www.bigdip.co.uk

THE ONE THAT GOT AWAY

2011-06-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

All of us at RECOGNISE were sorry to hear the news today surrounding our current cover star, Hugh Hefner. After six months together, and just five short days before the expected wedding, 24-year-old bride-to-be Crystal Harris called off her engagement to the Playboy king due to a “change of heart”. Hef talks to us about his relationship with his now ‘ex’ fiance in Issue 8 of RECOGNISE, available now...

ALL FOR CHILDREN

2011-06-14T04:47:00.000-07:00

New children’s clothing collection for H&M and UNICEF’s All For Children

This October,H&M will launch a new range of fashionable children’s clothing to show its support for the UNICEF‘All For Children’ initiative. This scheme aims to generate lasting change for generations of children in some of the most deprived parts of the world, where many of H&M’s clothes are made. 25% of all sales from the All For Children collection will go directly to support UNICEF in their promotion of children’s rights to education and protection among vulnerable communities. The collection updates many classic favourite pieces and is designed to be versatile, so that pieces can be worn throughout the season and beyond.The range will be available in 160 stores worldwide and also online.

CAMERON PLEDGES MILLIONS TOWARDS CHILD VACCINATION PROGRAMMES ABROAD

2011-06-13T08:11:00.000-07:00

David Cameron and Microsoft tycoon Bill Gates lead the ‘Saving Children’s Lives’ conference in London today, where countries are being asked to increase contributions towards immunisation programmes in some of the world’s poorest nations by an additional £2.3bn by 2015.

Currently nearly 2 million children under five die each year from pneumonia alone, despite the existence of a vaccine.

Cameron has announced an additional pledge of £814m on top of his existing commitment of £680m between 2011 and 2015 to aid the vaccination of children against preventable diseases such as pneumonia.

Over the past decade the Global Alliance on Vaccines and Immunisations (GAVI) has been able to reach 288 million children with vaccines, saving more than 5 million lives. GAVI has said that the additional money could help to save 4 million lives in 4 years.

GOLD THAT SHINES BRIGHTER...

2011-06-12T12:01:00.000-07:00

On Friday night we attended a special evening hosted by the Fairtrade Foundation to celebrate the launch of Fairtrade and Fairmined Gold in conjunction with London Jewellery Week. From traditional fine jewellery to contemporary sculptural pieces, the event showcased a range of ethical designers including CRED, Linnie McLarty, Ute Decker and Ingle & Rhode.

We were lucky enough to speak to one of the miners who at the forefront of the Fairtrade Gold revolution has inspired many a designer to take part in the movement by sourcing their metal and stones in an ethical and fair way without sacrificing innovative design and creativity.

Read up more about Fairtrade mining and see the latest pieces from our favourite ethical jewellery designers in Recognise, issue 9.

Fairtrade gold Arm Sculpture by Ute Decker

Ethically sourced ruby and fairtrade gold ring by Linnie McLarty

WELL OBSERVED – The Observer Ethical Awards, 2011

2011-06-10T09:17:00.000-07:00

Last night we were invited to celebrate the winners (and non-winners) of the Observer's annual awards for the people, places and businesses that have taken the lead in either bringing awareness to green or humanitarian issues or implemented far reaching green, ethical and innovative practices as part of their business models.

Colin and Livia Firth

Ben Okri


Lily Cole

Now in its sixth year the awards have become a standard by which businesses market their credentials to their consumers. Businesses competing to ‘out-green’ each other to capture a larger market share? That’s the kind of Capitalism that makes all of us at Recognise smile from ear to ear. Of course, we didn’t mind rubbing shoulders with all the celebrities who attended the ceremony either. It shows that green and ethical issues are not just for the campaigners; it’s now for the fashionable and the mainstream too.

Rick Edwards

Stacey Dooley

Rob Da Bank

Congratulations to John Mulholland, Lucy Siegle, the whole Observer team and all the winners for another successful event. See you next year!!

For a list of all last night’s winners visit http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/jun/09/winners

ROCK UP AND SEA WITH FAT FACE

2011-06-10T04:08:00.000-07:00

Fat Face has got busy plans to give you a fun and sun filled summer. Their Rock Up and Sea Tour is bringing cool beach parties to the south coast for five weekends, kicking off with Newquay, Cornwall on 2 July and it’s all for FREE! You can even win the chance to learn to surf, paddle board or go sea kayaking. After a day in the sun, carry on into the night with the official after party offering a BBQ, drinks and live music.

They’re also holding a model competition, offering you the chance to become the new face of their Summer 2012 campaign and win £1,000 worth of Fat Face clothing! So send in your photo or nominate your mates.

As if that isn’t enough, September sees the charity auction of inspiring and original artwork by 9 British artists, both up and coming and established, via Ebay. What’s more all the money raised goes to the Fat Face Foundation which works closely with the Marine Conservation Society to clean up and maintain Britain’s beaches and coastline.

For more information, to register for your free beach party and become a model visit:

http://outthere.fatface.com/liveinit/

FASHION FOR ALL WALKS...

2011-06-09T08:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we caught up with previous BBC’s The Clothes Show presenter and fashion expert Caryn Franklin at Graduate Fashion Week. Together with Erin O’Connor and Debra Bourne she’s been campaigning to stop the fashion industry’s obsession with 'size zero' and youthful perfection. Their campaign All Walks Beyond the Catwalk aims to encourage the industry to showcase models of all different ages, shapes, size and race. And where better to encourage this by starting with the designers of the future!

We took a leaf out of Caryn’s book this month with our own high fashion editorial shoot featuring a gorgeous and curvaceous 'plus size' model proving you don’t have to be super skinny to pull off wearing amazing clothes and look fabulous.

Check out the shoot and our interview with Caryn in our next issue!

WORLD OCEANS DAY – WE HEARD IT WENT SWIMMINGLY

2011-06-09T04:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was World Oceans Day. The global event encouraged people to think about the positive changes they can make to protect marine life. Ocean protection organisation, Oceana, is encouraging people to take a pledge to become an “Ocean Hero" by making a commitment to one of three options: recycling, cleaning local waterways or eating sustainable seafood. Their hope is that one day our oceans will be as rich and abundant as they once were. We hope that you all got involved!

Selfridges recently launched their campaign towards a more sustainable and ethical business approach, Project Ocean, in collaboration with 20 conservation and environmental groups which aims to highlight the threat of over-fishing and promote seafood sustainability. If you were in Selfridges yesterday you may have even seen a man dressed up as a giant fish!

(Featured in Issue 8 of RECOGNISE Magazine)

GOVERNMENT SLASHES SOLAR ELECTRICITY FUNDING

2011-06-09T03:49:00.000-07:00

Friends of the Earth are outraged about the Government’s decision to cut funding of solar electricity schemes yesterday. The cuts will see a reduction in feed-in tariff payments made to solar electricity schemes above 50kw. The feed-in tariffs, previously introduced thanks to Friends of the Earth’s campaign, provided long-term payments for small scale green electricity schemes.

Due to the recent cuts, investors have put plans for community schemes on hold, not only preventing the creation of renewable energy sources but also the thousands of jobs opportunities that would have been created by the projects. The Government says the purpose of the cuts is to reduce the creation of too many commercial solar farms.

For further information and to show your support visit www.foe.co.uk

MODEL MOVES: Agatha Relota’s New Book

2011-06-03T07:10:00.000-07:00

Agatha shows off her new book in the Hempel Hotel gardens

On Wednesday evening we were invited to the official launch for the children’s book ‘Carla and Leo’s World of Dance’ in the beautiful gardens of The Hempel Hotel in West London.

The book itself is written by supermodel and trained dancer Agatha Relota and centres on the adventures of two young children as they discover the magical world of ballroom dancing for the first time.

In such gorgeous surroundings with so many celebs in attendance it certainly seemed magical, especially when we were treated to full dance shows on the specially built dance floor in the centre of the gardens. It’s a shame we all had two left feet, it looked amazing!

Carla and Leo’s World of Dance, with a foreword written by ‘Yummy Mummy’ Jessica Alba and illustrations from fashion illustrator Thierry Perez, is available now on Thames & Hudson press.

V.I.P Very Important Plectrums

2011-06-02T08:52:00.000-07:00

Fancy owning a piece of music history? Until 19 June Ben Sherman is auctioning off plectrums, donated and signed by numerous iconic artists. All the proceeds go to selected charities Trekstock, funding cancer research and supporting young people with cancer and Lifebeat, providing education in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Each plectrum is signed and comes in a custom made collector’s frame alongside a photograph and message from the artist. The first of three lots ends on Sunday 5 June so get bidding via Ebay. We’ve got our eye on Mark Ronson’s, what about you?

http://www.benshermanvip.com/2011/#vip

do one good thing

2011-06-01T06:05:00.000-07:00

The One Foundation is rapidly improving the lives of thousands of children in Africa by giving them access to clean water through the sales of its bottled water. One Water is bottled at source from the Love One Spring in Powys, Wales and 100% of the proceeds go to funding community based water solutions in Africa.

Their latest solution is the PlayPump; a children's roundabout which pumps water from deep underground into tanks as the children play. The children love playing on the pump so much it’s even increased school attendance!

You can buy One Water from Morrison’s, Tesco, Waitrose, World Duty Free and Total UK for only £0.45 for 500 ml.

TRACEY EMIN

2011-06-01T05:39:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we went along to the Southbank, Hayward Gallery to see the new Tracey Emin exhibition, Love is What You Want.
The exhibition surveys the rather controversial and outspoken career or Emin, who has become one of Britain’s most celebrated contemporary artists.
Using her own life and experiences as the starting point for her work, Emin has created a combination of explicit, romantic and profound art.
Most of the pieces are based around the idea of femininity. She uses hand sewn blankets, strobe lighting in the form of words and large wooden structures, so there is certainly no room for boredom here.
Definitely worth a visit, but probably not one to bring the grandparents to!

TOPMAN LAUNCHES NEW PERSONAL SHOPPING SERVICE

2011-05-26T05:41:00.000-07:00

Last night the RECOGNISE team made their way down to men’s fashion brand, Topman, for the launch of their new personal shopping service in Oxford Circus.

Topman have appointed critically acclaimed interior and product designer Lee Broom to create a fresh and exciting shopping suite that resembles a modern gentlemen’s club. Men visiting this section of the store will be able to choose from three consultation areas, as well as take advantage of a Microsoft Innovation & Xbox gaming area and an Asahi ‘Honesty Bar’ - best of all the service is completely free of charge!

Customers will be able to book either a 30-minute, one-hour or two-hour session to discuss the latest trends and their own personal style with one of ten industry experts who Topman have scouted from all over the sartorial sphere. Stylists previously from Vivienne Westwood, Yves Saint Laurent and Matches, to name a few, will be on hand to provide practical fashion advice to savvy city slickers with the added option of a beer and a game on the Xbox.

Giles Farnham, Personal Shopping Assistant Manager at Topman Oxford Circus, said that changes to shopping patterns over recent years means there is now a demand for this consultative process on the high street - not just in designer boutique stores. We couldn’t agree more, so get down there and check it out!

Images courtesy of Topman

by Jacob Kamara

NEW SUSTAINABLE CAPSULE COLLECTION BY ULTRA!

2011-05-24T02:15:00.000-07:00

This week sustainable fashion label, ULTRA, launched a new capsule collection entitled ULTRA 10: Consisting of ten staple pieces including a 2-in-1 jacket which also doubles as a vest as well as other wearable basics the range aims to serve as the core of your wardrobe for an entire year. Ethically produced and manufactured using sustainable fabrics such as organic cotton, recycled jersey and biodegradable tencel, ULTRA 10 possesses the same quality and innovative design as the ULTRA mainline collections.

The ULTRA 10 collection is available to purchase now from: www.theultraultra.com.

(Check out The latest issue of RECOGNISE [ISSUE 8 - 'SEX'] which features the very sexy Jessica Lowndes dressed in ULTRA.)

FAIRER FASHION FOOTPRINT!

2011-05-23T02:29:00.000-07:00

Last Friday evening the RECOGNISE team attended Fairer Fashion Footprint; an event hosted by The LSE fashion Society and the Soho based vintage boutique, Beyond Retro to discuss matters of ethical and sustainable fashion. After indulging ourselves with the copious amounts of wine and sweet snacks that were on offer we were introduced to industry experts and the evening’s special guest speakers; Livia Firth and Lucy Siegle. All of us listened on attentively as both women talked passionately about subjects including ethical production, fair trade mining, their ‘Green Carpet Challenge’ and other important topics (all of which are discussed in depth in Lucy’s book ‘To Die For.’) However the focal point of the evening was the message stating that it’s us, the fashion consumer, who needs to act now to make a change for the better: “No one is 100% perfect “ said Livia, “but we should all do what we can.” We couldn’t agree more!

It was great to see that both Livia and Lucy put into practice what they preach: Livia wore clogs by eco friendly footwear brand, Swedish Hasbeens, a recycled vintage dress and her own design necklace by Made. Whilst Lucy wore a necklace by Joanna Cave, which was made using recycled silver. (Pictured above)

GOOD ONE GOODONE!

2011-05-21T07:30:00.000-07:00

One of our fav upcycling fashion brands, Goodone, has recently launched a ‘Basics Collection’ offering sustainable fashion at affordable prices! The summer collection consists of bodycon dresses, skirts, cropped tops and trousers all skilfully created out of reclaimed jersey and lightweight knitted fabrics in pale hues of pinks, blues, teals and oranges.

The Basics Collection is available to purchase now from the Goodone website as well as ASOS Marketplace.

Slouch Jumper Dress: £79

Crop Top: £35

Crop Cardi: £48

Playsuit: £69

ECOVELOCITY

2011-05-16T03:13:00.000-07:00

RECOGNISE is getting keyed up about the low-carbon motor festival taking place this September. Suitable for all the family the Ecovelocity is an enjoyable, eco-friendly car show showcasing that environmentally friendly doesn’t have to mean slow and boring.

Test-drive the cars or head to the supercar paddock to see a huge display of the latest eco-cars. This is a four day festival running from Thursday 8th – Sunday 11th September and it’s hosted in Battersea power station which means a brilliant outdoor venue that’s promoting an eco friendly lifestyle!

With the likes of Honda, Kia, Ford, Fiat, Peugeot, Renault and many more, you do not want to miss out... To purchase tickets to the event or for more information please visit: http://www.ecovelocity.co.uk/

Words: Jenny Reeder

FASHION TARGETS BREAST CANCER!

2011-05-11T02:39:00.000-07:00

Originally founded by Ralph Lauren, Fashion Targets Breast Cancer (FTBC) was set up in 1994 and has since raised over 11.5 million to support breast cancer sufferers.

This year is no different with a whole host of high street stores once again getting involved in the worthwhile cause. The high street stores are generously donating a percentage of sales to FTBC from a range of their products be it handbags to tees and maxi dresses to swimming costumes. Check it out for yourselves at stores including Topshop, M&S, River Island, Coast and My-Wardrobe; it’s a perfect excuse to go shopping and do your bit for breast cancer, but remember to keep an eye out for the FTBC logo on the clothing tag!

RECOGNISE'S PICK OF THE BEST:

AAMAYA BY PRIYANKA @ MY-WARDROBE.COM

TOPAZ TRIPLE STONE SIGNATURE RING

£157.00

RIVER SIAND

PINK SATCHEL BAG

£29.99

TOPSHOP

WHITE SLOGAN TEE

£18.00

Click here to buy products or donate now via the FTBC website.

Words: Jenny Reeder

NO MORE FISH IN THE SEA?

2011-05-09T07:44:00.000-07:00

Can you imagine a world without any fish in the oceans? Well, neither can Selfridges as they launch their sustainability initiative, 'Project Ocean'. Selfridges' creative director, Alannah Weston, is partnering up with the Zoological Society of London (ZSL) and collaborating with the best campaigners and creative minds alike to raise awareness about the issues surrounding overfishing and marine protection.

Selfridges Project Ocean has it all; guides on what fish to eat, interactive exhibitions, films about the issues and debates on the topics. If that still isn’t enough you can also get your hands on some Katharine Hamnett goodies including T- shirts, tote bags and beach towels flaunting slogans such as ‘No More Fish In The Sea’ and 'Stop And Think'. They kick it all off with a star studded launch party on Wednesday 11th May… See you there!

Project Ocean runs from the 11^th May to 12^th June. Visit www.selfridges.com for more info.

Pictured: 'SAVE THE SEA' slogan beach towel by Katharine Hamnett for Selfridges' Project Ocean; £33, as featured in RECOGNISE Issue 8 (OUT SOON!)

Words: Jenny Reeder

H&M: FASHION AGAINST AIDS!

2011-05-06T13:10:00.000-07:00

Not long after the release of their SS’11 ‘Conscious Collection’, H&M have launched yet another morally-minded range: this time in collaboration with the charity, Designers Against Aids (DAA) to help spread awareness of safe sex and HIV/AIDS prevention across the globe. The high street retailer has also roped in an array of A-list celebrities including Keri Hilson, Akon, Selma Blair and The Scissor Sisters to front and support the new ‘Fashion Against Aids’ campaign.

The unisex collection consisting of slogan tees, cool-casual jumpsuits, waterproof parkers and utility accessories is available in stores now with 25% of sales going straight to the DAA as well as other HIV/AIDS prevention projects.

Visit www.hm.com/gb for more information or to shop now!

JESSICA OGDEN FOR ASOS

2011-03-22T07:48:00.000-07:00

Jessica Ogden is creating an eleven-piece collection for ASOS, Made in Africa.

The collections are produced in Kenya to support the work of SOKO (a workshop that is dedicated to developing a sustainable and long term solution to the economic problems in the Kenyan community).

ASOS will be donating £5 from every item sold from both the ASOS Africa and Jessica Ogden for ASOS collections to enable SOKO to build a new workshop; ASOS will match fund each purchase with an additional £5! So get buying!

Jessica Ogden For ASOS

RECOGNISE MAGAZINE: FIRST EVER DOUBLE ISSUE!

2011-03-19T14:58:00.000-07:00

Make sure to get your copies of the new FUN money issue of Recognise Magazine!! As well as an exclusive interview with the lovely Mcfly boys, the new issue has exclusives with the talented Jessie J, Theo Paphitis and many more! Get your copy NOW!

VIVIENNE WESTWOOD, 'CARI-TEES' FOR COMIC RELIEF, RED NOSE DAY!

2011-03-19T14:48:00.000-07:00

Vivienne Westwood has created her latest 'Chari-tees' for Comic relief's Red nose day - 18 March 2011.

After working closely with Comic Relief and designing a range of t-shirts, Westwood says: “I once did a collection called ‘I am Expensiv’, meaning that we are supported by the suffering of the whole world in our privilege bubbles and we must try and help people a bit. Comic Relief does a lot and I try to help where I can. My main problem at the minute is climate change. I do believe we are an endangered species and I think it is great to try and do anything you possibly can even if to help just one person. But Comic Relief does more than that.”

Vivenne Westwood is known for making political statements through her work in fashion. Her chari-tees' take inspiration from history. Featuring striking black and white prints of historical figures and icons, prints include Shakespeare, Hogarth imagery, the famous Vivienne Westwood punk girl and skull and cross-bones.

Get yours for comic relief!

RECOGNISE MAGAZINE: ISSUE SIX, OUT NOW!

2011-01-31T04:38:00.000-08:00

2011-01-27T04:06:00.000-08:00

Alexandra Burke has been involved with the Born to Believe charity for the last couple of years and recently returned from Haiti from her second trip to see work being done there.

"I love the work they do, it's opened my eyes to being more careful and to not take things for granted. I want to spread the message because they are doing a really good thing."

10 TOP TIPS ON A GUILT FREE VALENTINE'S DAY

2011-01-26T04:46:00.000-08:00

In the UK and many Western countries, Valentine’s Day has become the traditional day when people express their love for each other by giving gifts and cards often without thinking about the impact they have on the environment.
Nigel Berman, founder of http://www.nigelsecostore.com/ has come up with ten top tips to help you have a low-carbon and guilt-free Valentine’s Day.

1) An estimated one billion Valentine’s cards are sent each year, making it the biggest card-sending occasion after Christmas. The UK greeting card industry is worth nearly £1.47 billion annually, according to figures from the Greeting Card Association.1 The Greeting Card Association’s latest report puts the average number of greeting cards sent in the UK at 31 per person a year. Multiply that by the population of the UK2 and imagine all the waste!

Try to send recycled cards, or get creative and make your own (that would surely earn brownie points from your partner on the effort front) by carving a message of love on a wooden card. Wooden cards are real ‘keep-sakes’ and much more romantic than buying a card from a shop.

2) Cut flowers have often travelled thousands of miles and some have been sprayed with pesticides. By the time you give them to your loved one, you are lucky if they last a week. So try to choose locally grown flowers or, better still, your loved can get pleasure from growing their own with this Love in a Grobox. Alternatively, why not give someone a Love tree? A real tree is a lasting token of your affection and this one has beautiful, white blossom. It is native to the UK, encourages and provides for wildlife and contributes to offsetting your carbon footprint. If a Love tree isn’t for you, you could give a zesty lemon tree or an orange tree.

3) Chocolate is another eco no-no. West Africa is the centre of cocoa production and is often under scrutiny for fair trade issues. There is also all the non-recyclable packaging to consider and emissions from production and transportation. It is estimated that in Britain we eat, on average, 10.2kg per person a year!3 If you have to buy chocolate consider fair trade alternatives, or products made closer to home.

4) Think of something original to do on Valentine’s Day, rather than just going for a meal. Have you got a ‘special place’ as a couple? Perhaps somewhere you have been on a first date or picnic together? How about giving your loved one a Seedbom that you can use to symbolise your love? You throw the Seedbom in your special place with enough force to shatter it and disperse the wild seeds inside. You can go back together when the seeds start to grow to admire your handiwork. Or you might like this gorgeous Love in a Bag which contains fieldpoppy and corncockle seeds.

5) Try to give an original and meaningful gift. Traditionally in Saxon England a boy would give his Valentine a pair of gloves. In Wales, it is customary to give the object of your affections a wooden spoon decorated with keyholes meaning ‘you unlock my heart’. How about sending your Valentine some of our oak juniper spatulas? OK, so these are spatulas not spoons, but the sentiment is there.

6) Do something romantic like running a bath for your other half. Use the ylang ylang bubble melt in our organic box of love then treat them to a relaxing massage using the oil. Or this sexy Ooo Herbal Bath Gift Box could get them in the mood for romance. Alternatively, our bath melts come shaped as cup cakes and hearts - a perfect gift to demonstrate your love.

7) Do something thoughtful. Find a cherished photo of yourselves and frame it as a lasting gift that costs about the same as a nice bunch of flowers but won’t wilt and die. We have a gorgeous and fair trade metal photo frame. If metal is not your thing, we also have a wooden fair trade vintage style frame that has been handcrafted in India with wood sourced from sustainable forests. Or you could consider a divine eco print with the letters LOVE. Made from 100% recycled card, it would look great in any boudoir or bedroom.

8) Perhaps you just want to get away for a few days? Get some inspiration from this book, Organic Places to Stay by Linda Moss, it contains 520 suggestions of organic getaways within the UK. You can make sure you and your partner don’t miss your favourite radio programmes by giving them a wind up hearts radio. It can also be used for charging up mobile phones.

9) You could add to the mood by decorating your home or dining table with these felt hearts. These decorations are made from 100% merino wool and eco-friendly dyes. They’re also the perfect accessory for your Valentine’s Day gift. You could even dress your windows or mantelpiece with this sweet design.

10) Of course, you could always stay home, turn out the lights, turn down the heating, light some candles, open a bottle of organic eco wine and keep each other warm!

URBAN JUNGLE

2011-01-24T07:21:00.000-08:00

Jaeger London launches an exciting collection of easy urban pieces for the weekend. The collection‘s show-stopping punched leather parka, suede pants, suede dresses and gauzy mesh military dresses feature alongside Jaeger London‘s ready-to-wear wardrobe staples including rolled-up chinos, silk military shirts, military vests and mesh knits – making dressing down effortless and chic.

NEW BREED OF HI-TECH ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCHERS TO EMERGE FROM LEICESTER

2011-01-24T07:19:00.000-08:00

University of Leicester is hub of new €3.5m research centre using satellite technologies to tackle environmental issues

The new centre will also lead to development of new methods for research and addressing disaster relief following landslides and floods as well as for climate change monitoring, protection of tropical rainforests, lake water quality measuring and coastal erosion.
The University of Leicester was chosen to lead the project as it is a world leader for space research and satellite monitoring and is internationally recognised for its cutting edge research training in remote sensing.
The new European Centre of Excellence in Earth Observation Research Training, GIONET, will develop better methods for monitoring climate change, environmental disasters and land cover change. With the changes in the planet and its climate, reliable, thorough and up-to-date environmental information is essential for understanding these changes, the impact they have on people’s lives and how to handle them.

Coordinator of the project, Professor Heiko Balzter, Head of the Department of Geography, commented: “GIONET will lead to better satellite monitoring methods to control tropical deforestation, help people affected by natural disasters and adapt to climate change.”
GIONET will also satisfy the demand for more researchers and provide skilled personnel for the European Earth observation programme Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES) land monitoring and emergency services.

Professor Balzter, who has contributed to the development of the European land monitoring from space since the very inception of GMES, commented:
“GIONET is training 14 young researchers in satellite remote sensing over the next 4 years. These young scientists will become the research leaders of tomorrow.
“They will be placed in industry and Universities and experience working abroad, as well as getting the best technical training and scientific education.
“At the same time each student will work on a research project and make a practical impact on our ability to monitor the planet from satellite.”
“Each full GIONET partner organisation is looking to recruit the brightest research students out there, who can really make a big impact on our future satellite monitoring capability,” added Professor
Balzter.

Funded by European Commission, Framework Programme 7 and Marie Curie Programme, GIONET is collaboration between international partners from the private and public sector:
•             University of Leicester (Coordinator)
•             Infoterra UK Ltd.
•             Gamma Remote Sensing AG, Switzerland
•             Institute of Geodesy and Cartography, Warsaw, Poland
•             Friedrich-Schiller-University, Jena, Germany
•             Balaton Limnological Research Institute of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences
•             German Aerospace Research Establishment
•             DEFiNiENS AG, Germany
•             Joint Research Centre of the European Commission, Ispra, Italy
•             ITT Visual Information Solutions Ltd., UK
•             SpectoNatura, UK
The consortium coordinator is Prof. Balzter (Geography), and contributions to the training programme are made by the G-STEP project (GMES Space Technology Exchange Partnership; Director Prof. Paul Monks, Chemistry, Deputy Director Prof. John Remedios, Physics and Astronomy).

Are You Obsessed With Facebook ?

2011-01-20T15:15:00.000-08:00

It would be a lie to say that the Recognise staff are always at work and you would never catch us occasionally logging into arguably the most influential online presence of today. From the social networking value to the visual nostalgia that are tagged photos, Facebook is very addictive to say the least, but are you Facebook obsessed ?

If you fall in the category of the statistics presented above then check out the full report 'under the cut' and find out if you are truly obsessed with Facebook.

Supermodel By Day, Superhero By Night

2010-12-14T18:30:00.000-08:00

With the title of being a Supermodel and United Nations Goodwill Ambassador, It wasn't going to be too long before Gisele Bündchen would hailed as the superhero everybody loves. We say this because the international star is currently involved in a new web-based animated series with the purpose of teaching a younger audience on how they can do their part to save the earth.

'Gisele and The Green Team' is the name of the series, which follows a group of young women who are eco-superheroes undercover during the night and made it's web debut last week on AOL Kids. The 26-episode series was launched with it's own mini site within AOL Kids which Gisele also lent her hand in the design process which constantly reinforces the eco-friendly aim of the show.

Check out episode 1 here...

Nutrition Definitely Rocks !

2010-12-14T18:12:00.000-08:00

While surfing through the web one of the Recognise staff stumbled on Nutrition Rocks and felt compelled to share it with everyone. Once actually going through the site myself, I understood why, this is a place where people who really want to live a healthier lifestyle and believe in the notion 'If you look good, you feel good' would really appreciate.
Geared towards both genders, Nutrition Rocks aims to offer people easy and practical advice on living a healthier lifestyle whilst providing accurate tips in nutrition and well being. Together with celebrity interviews, Nutrition Rocks will feature real life stories to encourage and inspire alongside no nonsense information around food, nutrition, beauty, fashion and fitness.

They are currently generating a buzz with celebrity supporters such as 'Big Brother' Presenter Davina McCall , award nominated writer Hardeep Singh and 'Cook Yourself Thin' Presenter Gizzi Erskine.

Check out the site here

Marks & Spencer Lead The Pack

2010-12-06T12:30:00.001-08:00

Marks & Spencer have stepped up in our good books with the report of their half-year progress of Plan A, their eco/ethical programme to become the world's most sustainable major retailer by 2015. 70 of the 180 commitments placed in March have been achieved so far such as...

M&S stores, offices and distribution centres in the UK are now recycling 92 per cent of their operational waste, up from the 53 per cent reported in June and 41 per cent in 2008/09. Solutions are now being trialled to recycle the remaining eight per cent of waste so that M&S can achieve its commitment to send zero waste to landfill by 2012.

Environmental charity Groundwork UK has announced 20 new M&S-sponsored Greener Living Spaces for 2011, funded by the profit from the 5p food carrier bag charge. These include community allotments in Northern Ireland, a community orchard project in West Yorkshire and a wildlife garden in North Wales. Since launch £3.6 million has been donated, funding 79 Greener Living Spaces.

25 M&S stores are now using environmentally friendly CO₂ refrigeration systems and a further 175 stores have been converted to refrigeration systems which use a cleaner HFC (R407a) gas that instantly halves harmful emissions should they escape.

Between June and September 340 M&S stores successfully completed a charity challenge to raise over £1 million in 100 days. 290 charities benefited from the fundraising which included fun runs, fancy dress, fashion shows, cycling tours, bake sales and charity bag packers.

In September M&S collected £1million worth of clothing for Oxfam, through its first ever ‘One Day Wardrobe Clearout’. Customers donated over 350,000 items of unwanted clothing, helping raise money for Oxfam and reducing the amount of clothing sent to landfill, whilst earning a £5 voucher for their local M&S store.

Marc Bolland, Chief Executive has said: “Plan A is an integral part of our business and at the heart of the M&S brand. It gives us something uniquely different – something that's 'Only at M&S'. We’ve achieved a great deal and we now want to make sure that more of our 21 million customers get involved in Plan A, making it easier for them to live more sustainable lifestyles.”

As you can see the retail giant has been pretty busy this year and have also stated that 20 of their planned commitments are on course to be fulfilled by April 2011 !

Vivienne Westwood For Xmas Anyone ?

2010-12-06T12:30:00.000-08:00

Vivienne Westwood recently uncovered a new stationery line including notebooks and diaries presented with her iconic prints such as the squiggle pattern from the 1981 Pirates collection, the Anglomania Union Jack flag print and the yellow Tartan print.

The line is made entirely from recycled paper and costs are mere £25, grab it on-line now and add it to your xmas presents for that special someone !

London Follow The Latest Eco Trend

2010-12-05T15:06:00.000-08:00

London have now joined the new trend of spraying a 'dust suppressant' which will stick to pollution particles that lurk in the street so they do not pollute the air. The scheme that has been used in countries such as Sweden, Norway and Germany is a pilot program which will see two areas that are usually congested with traffic sprayed with the suppressant with the hope to reduce air pollution by 20%.

"We have scoured the globe to find new ways to tackle pollution and found this wonderful contraption that tackles air quality head on, sticking particles to the roads' surface and preventing their dastardly escape back into the air we breathe." Said London Mayor Boris Johnson.

Digital Death

2010-12-01T14:15:00.000-08:00

Numerous celebrities such as Lady GAGA, Justin Timberlake, Jay Sean, Usher, Elijah Wood and Kim Kardashian have all logged out of their social networking guilty pleasures today in commeration with World Aids Day until the Keep A Child Alive charity created by Alicia Keys has been able to raise at least $1 million through donations.

"It's so important to shock you to the point of waking up. It's not that people don't care or it's not that people don't want to do something, it's that they never thought of it quite like that." "This is such a direct and instantly emotional way and a little sarcastic, you know, of a way to get people to pay attention." said Alicia Keys, who has more than 2.6 million followers on Twitter.

If you haven't heard of the Keep A Child Alive charity, the foundation aims to raise money to support families affected by HIV/AIDS in regions such as India and Africa.

You can donate directly to the charity HERE

The Giving Factor Too ?

2010-11-16T09:52:00.000-08:00

Teenage hearthrobs JLS are following in the steps of Sir Paul McCartney and fellow reality TV band Girls Aloud in releasing their first single, which is also a charity single and has been titled the Official Children In Need song of 2010. The track released on November 14th is their first written song by the guys and also their first ballad after upbeat hits like 'Beat Again' and 'The Club is Alive'.

This is a difference from the 2009 official song which featured comedian Peter Kay rounding up over 100 animated stars from the most popular children's TV shows of all time. Band member Ortise has said "It's a special single because this is the first one that we've written and it's all for a good cause." Marvin also went on to say "We've been getting involved in a lot of charity work this side of the year. We've just launched the JLS Foundation, which is our own charity. This is another thing that we're doing to give back and help and support those who need it most."

The single will be featured on Children In Need on November 19th and will play a big part in raising money to help disadvantaged young people across the nation.

Now Serving... Richard Branson

2010-11-16T09:30:00.000-08:00

Sir Richard Branson is no stranger to giving back to society so when we heard he'll be dressing up as an air stewardess on an AirAsia flight from Kuala Lumper to London after losing a bet with Lotus Formula 1 boss Tony Fernandes. We had to let you all know about it.

The bet all started when they each placed a friendly wager on whose team would win the 2010 Formula One championship and with Branson’s Virgin Racing team coming below Fernandes' Lotus team. He has agreed to dress up as an air stewardess and serve on a flight where the seats will be auctioned and all proceeds will go to charity.

“We have had this great bet running all season and now it’s time for Richard to start preparing himself for some hard work and the likely pain of a pair of high heels,” Fernandes said in a statement. “The date of the flight will be announced very soon and the aim is to raise as much money as we can for a good cause so the discomfort Richard will go through is worth as much as it possibly can be. Money raised will go to a charity of Richard’s choice and give fans of both teams the chance to be on the flight."

We can't wait to get a picture of Sir Branson in a pair of heels !

Sainsbury's Fashion ?

2010-11-16T09:15:00.000-08:00

Sorry to burst your bubble but no.. Sainsbury's will not be launching high street fashion stores next to H&M while that may be a weird move from the grocery giant, a flamenco-style dress inspired by the popular TV show Strictly Come Dancing has been created with only reused Sainsbury's carrier bags.

The dress modelled above by Islington store's own Shanice Bailey Farrell was designed by Adnan Bayyat and is being used to encourage customers to reuse their plastic shopping bags during the busy Christmas period. The dress will be on loan to the Gallery of Costume in Manchester as a part of an exhibition on the beauty of reusing everyday items. The designer also had to say "I created the dress by hand-crocheting Sainsbury's bags together. The dress took me an entire month to make, but the result is stunning and vibrant. It's also very positive to use my fashion design skills to make something which can promote reusing and recycling.".

If you're doing abit of shopping this week, why not head on over to your local Sainsbury's and earn yourself double Nectar points every time you reuse a bag !

Ralph Lauren Pushes The Envelope Further

2010-11-12T08:02:00.000-08:00

This week Ralph Lauren showcased a special 4D Live Fashion show to commemorate 10 years of their US e-commerce website and the recent launch of the UK site, which we've all been waiting for so long down here. The show lasted approximately ten minutes with a rather large visual projected onto the Ralph Lauren flagship store in both New York and London, with the scent of their recent fragrance around the area.

Watch the shows in both New York and London after the cut.

The Official Ralph Lauren 4D Experience - London from Ralph Lauren on Vimeo.

The Official Ralph Lauren 4D Experience - New York from Ralph Lauren on Vimeo.

Plus behind the scenes footage leading up to both shows...

The Official Ralph Lauren 4D Experience – Behind The Scenes from Ralph Lauren on Vimeo.

"In celebration of 10 years of digital innovation, RalphLauren.com presents the ultimate fusion of art, fashion & technology in a visual feast for the 5 senses. Watch as the London flagship at 1 New Bond Street disappears before your eyes and is then transformed into a series of objects and images rendered in 3-dimensional space." - Ralph Lauren

Crisis Hidden Gigs

2010-11-12T07:44:00.000-08:00

If Dorothy learned one thing from her time in Oz it's this: There's no place like home.

But this Christmas hundreds of homeless people will be sleeping rough on the freezing streets and tens of thousands more will be hidden out of sight on friends' and families' sofas and floors, stuck in temporary accommodation or cramped into cold miserable squats without even heat, light or running water. Many don't know where they will end up each night and are often forced to move from place to place, hoping that somewhere, sometime they will find somewhere safe and secure. The general public aren't even aware they are there - they are hidden from view, hidden from help.

Unlike Dorothy, they need more than ruby slippers to get them home. That's where Crisis comes in. They transform the lives of individual homeless people by providing our own yellow brick roads built upon education, employment, wellbeing and housing solutions and we campaign for change and an end to homelessness. But this doesn't come for free - they rely on the generosity and support of ordinary members of the public.

That's where Crisis Hidden Gigs plays its part. The bring top acts to intimate, unusual spaces to create a unique musical experience and raise money for Crisis. All venues remain hidden until 24 hours before the gig when a text or email message will be sent to the ticket holders revealing its location.

Past acts have included Zane Lowe, Pendulum, Chase & Status, and Man Like Me. This year Crisis Hidden Gigs are proud to announce Coldplay will be headlining for a special 2 nights !

You can buy tickets or find out more about this event here !

Have A Choice...

2010-11-12T07:17:00.000-08:00

I Have A Choice is a scheme run with by V-Inspired alongside Catch 22 which allows young people aged 16-25 to volunteer their time to gain new experiences, meet new people.
The scheme is supported by Alexandra Burke and Lemar, plus it's a cool way to get some new skills whilst doing things you enjoy from basketball volunteering to radio volunteering there's always something popping up for you to participate in.

If you're interested check out the website 'I Have A Choice'.

The choice is endless…

Mencap's Little Noise Sessions

2010-11-12T06:57:00.000-08:00

If you're down London throughout next week, why not head on over to Islington and enjoy 'Little Noise Sessions' down at the Islington Union Chapel. This is a week-long indoor live acoustic festival which hosts the some of the biggest names in music with acts such as U2, Snow Patrol, Kasabian, Noel Gallagher, Florence & The Machine and Amy Winehouse.

The festival is curated by Radio 1's DJ Jo Whiley and this is year is it's 5th birthday with acts listed to perform such as Example, Pet Shop Boys, Tom Jones, The Kooks and Ellie Goulding. All of these stars supporting Mencap, which is a charity that supports those with learning disabilities, including their family and carers.

Grab your tickets here !

2010-11-09T10:07:00.000-08:00

On the UK's first ever Kindness Day, a special 'Pause for Kindness' will take place at 1pm on November 13th to inaugurate this annual day that starts this year.

“Kindness has been lagging or too silent in the UK, this year the Singapore Kindness Movement is giving away thousands and thousands of daisies and flower balloons to signify World Kindness Day”. says humanitarian and co-founder David Jamilly.

“We need to start somewhere, and we need to start now, our intention is that the UK sets the standard for kindness around the world”. says activist, humanitarian and co-founder Louise Burfitt-Dons.

Kindness Day UK is a non-monetary, humanitarian organisation with the sole purpose of making kindness a greater part of everyone’s daily life. David and Louise are lobbying the United Nations to recognise World Kindness Day as an official national day and lend its weight to a day of celebrating kindness and good deeds.

March For Honour

2010-11-09T09:44:00.000-08:00

On the 4 November 2010 four teams of serving and ex-serving individuals from each of Her Majesty's Armed Forces will begin an epic 'March For Honour'.Starting in four separate locations across the UK, the teams will dedicate and speed-march a mile for every British military life lost on operations in Iraq and Afghanistan since 2001. Wearing military uniform, each team will march an average of around 30 miles a day and a total distance of up to 250 miles, carrying forty pounds of equipment.

The teams will unite along the route before marching into London on 11 November to deliver the Book of Remembrance to the Royal Albert Hall for The Royal British Legion's National Festival of Remembrance. Their target is to raise £1 million for The Royal British Legion who work so hard to support the welfare, interests and memories of serving and ex-serving forces, and their families.

You can aid The Royal British Legion in reaching their £1million aim by donating online !

This Just Looks Cool !

2010-11-09T09:23:00.000-08:00

Yuriy Dmtriev, a Russian design student looks like he has designed the solution to many of our food storage problems with what he calls the 'Big Robot Refrigerator'. This convenient refrigerator uses biopolumer to cool groceries through luminescence, is odourless and non-sticky. Items are suspended in little pods for easy access, all you got to do is stick your hand in and grab the item of your choice, which you'll be able to clearly see as the gel is transparent..

The fridge has no doors, draws and motor with 90% of the appliance used for it's intended purpose. If you're wondering how each item is stored in their appropriate temperature, the items are kept individually at their optimal temperature by bio robots (that's easy way of saying it).

The fridge also increases/decreases in size as you store more/less products inside to efficiently save room and can be hung vertically or horizontally !

Too bad this is just a concept, but you never know, this could be here sooner than we think !

The Winter Issue Out Next Week !

2010-11-09T08:43:00.000-08:00

You can get your hands on The Winter Issue with Jamiroquai frontman Jay Kay as the cover star, as soon as next week !

In the mean time, you can take a peek at some of the features in the next issue on websites around the web, hit the jump to check them out.

(Click Here)

Eco Fashion Week Makes It's Debut

2010-11-06T13:05:00.000-07:00

Green was the new black when Vancouver hit the runway at the first ever Eco Fashion Week presented by Aveda. This week showcased a new generation of designers that are trying to change the way we think about clothing by reinventing eco-friendly fashion.

Watch the video after the jump

Nowhere on the catwalk were ill-fitted hemp dresses completely devoid of color or the Birkenstocks of yesteryear. Instead, models strutted their stuff in beautiful flowy dresses and impeccably tailored sportswear that radiated sophistication and femininity. With a fashion forward approach, the 15 designers that showed at EFW used their collections to send a message to the fashionistas of the world that sustainability and going green doesn't have to be a change in style, just a change in lifestyle. - Lauren Greenwood, Hush Magazine

We can't wait for this to be brought down to London !

NER*D's eh ? What Would We Do Without Them ?

2010-11-06T12:29:00.002-07:00

"Timberland has been a part of my life since I was a kid" words from Arts extraordinaire Pharrell Williams, who has teamed up with footwear brand Timberland for their Earthkeeper's Initiative to create over 90 different shoes and boots with his Bionic Yarn canvas. If you're not too clued up on Pharell's co-owned Bionic Yarn company, they create fabrics made from 50% organic cotton and 38% recycled plastic bottles. The same material that was used on Williams' recent Moncler collaboration. The collection will be available from early 2011.

2010-10-21T07:24:00.000-07:00

Apple products are taking over. Those signature white headphones and iconic sleek-looking gadgets can be spotted in any office, on at least 40% of the commuters on the train, and in the hands of pedestrians in every city. So how do you personalise yours? Diamante covers and garish iphone skins are easy to find, but getting a sophisticated and unique look is tricky. Until now. KARVT are now doing classy wooden skins and covers for you Apple products. They combine retro wood design with 21st century technology, perfect for the more refined customer. Ranging from £16-£22 on the website, it is attainable class and the people at KARVT are offering our readers a 20% discount.

Save 20% by using the promo code - RECOGNISE

To see more of the skins available through Karvt visit www.karvt.com.

Steve O Talks Breast Cancer

2010-10-19T09:56:00.000-07:00

Who said Steve O is just about playing really crazy panks on his fellow Jackass-men ? The Jackass star recently sat down with Vanity Fair for their latest issue and opened up about his real issue with Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

“Let me tell you how I feel about these pink ribbons,” said Steve. “I was watching the N.F.L. last week, and all the players were wearing pink. I don’t think they did anything to educate people about cancer prevention. I don’t think a pink ribbon does anything. What people need to know is that it’s the atrocious diet of Americans that’s responsible for all your cancer, all your heart disease, all your diabetes.”

Sounds just about right Steve, who would've thought after all those head bashing pranks you'd be the guy to point out the truth.

Ever Walked On Seeds ?

2010-10-19T09:41:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I took a trip to the Tate Modern Museum to check out some Material Gesture art and I happened to also check out the latest Turbine Hall project, where Chinese artist Ai Weiwei had placed millions of sunflower seeds on the ground like a carpet where you could walk on and touch.

Now you're probably wondering what's so cool about this, well, every single one of these life sized sunflower seeds are actually hand crafted in porcelain, individually sculpted and then painted by specialists working in small scale workshops in the Chinese city of Jingdezhen.

Go check it out now yourself, the project will be around until 2 may 2011 !

The Garden That Never Stays Still

2010-10-19T09:22:00.000-07:00

Ever fancied hopping on a bus with a garden on top ? We'll just answer this one for you because we doubt anyone has ever thought about this, well everyone except the guys over at BusRoots.

BusRoots is a project that brings an essence of natural beauty into the concrete jungle that we know as the city. The green roof system for buses is designed by Marco Castro Cosio, who created the project as his thesis at New York University and also earned second runner up in the DesignWala Grand Idea Competiton.

Pretty cool idea... we hope this'll be implemented in the U.K, and even on bus stops aswell !

Happy Hallowgreen...Oh Sorry We Meant Halloween

2010-10-19T08:55:00.000-07:00

It's that time of the year again ! With Halloween slowly creeping up on us, we thought we'd recommend a few of our spooky faves for staying green this Halloween.

Are you hosting this year's Halloween party or are you expecting the neighbourhood kids round for abit of trick or treating ? Either way you can't go wrong with a batch of Cadbury chocolates lying around for the picking !

Just incase we forgot to mention...... Cadbury is a Fairtrade brand !

Although, if you got kids running around the house yourself then you might want to take a peek at Ethical Superstore for some cool Halloween gifts and toys for the little guys and gals.

Last but not least check out Green Halloween, the one stop shopping guide for creating a fun & green Halloween. Whether you're a school teacher, parent or even just a teen check out the site that has step by step guides for people of al ages.

Energizer powers Breast Cancer Awareness month with pink energy pledges!

2010-10-06T10:00:00.000-07:00

Looking for a fun and exciting way to raise money for Breast Cancer Care this October? By making a pink energy pledge you can help support people living with breast cancer in the UK and raise money for this fantastic cause.

A pink energy pledge can be anything from promising to use the stairs instead of the lift, taking part in a charity race or making your office a cup of tea each day. It’s really easy and for every unique pledge, Energizer will donate £1 to Breast Cancer Care! Just go on Twitter and make your pledge in 140 characters or less, including #PinkEnergy in your tweet. Help Energizer hit our target of 10,000 pledges by making yours now!

To mark Breast Cancer Awareness month, Energizer has also given their Ultra+ batteries a pink makeover. 5p from the sale of each pink pack will go towards Breast Cancer Care. Buy yours now from Robert Dyas, Argo, Gordons Chemist or online from www.energizer.co.uk and power your gadgets with some pink energy!

Every 11 minutes someone in the UK hears the shocking news that they have breast cancer. So what are you waiting for? Help Energizer support Breast Cancer Care this October and help make a difference.

If You're Gonna Insure Yourself, Why Not Go Pink ?

2010-10-05T10:29:00.000-07:00

Insurepink is a leading insurance brand from brokers Hastings Direct, is raising just over £1,500 a week for breast cancer charities in the UK. The brand does this by donating a percentage from every motor, household and travel insurance sold to the Pink Ribbon Foundation. They also, offer competitive prices for anyone suffering from breast cancer, who is in remission, or survivors as they tend to struggle to find reasonable prices due to their medical history.

“This has been a real word of mouth success story. Whilst insurance is a very price driven purchase, customers have embraced being able to buy competitively, whilst still supporting such a worthwhile cause which affects 46,000 Britons each year*. We’re really proud to be supporting such a great cause and feel strongly about maintaining our involvement with the Pink Foundation, which supports many smaller breast cancer charities, research projects and studies.” Edward Fitzmaurice, CEO, Hastings Direct.

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH

2010-10-05T10:20:00.000-07:00

Here at Recognise, we support noble causes and with the month of Breast Cancer Awarenes upon us, we will be highlghting different charities and events surrounding this cause.

My Wardrobe And Katia Lombardo Is All I Need

2010-10-05T09:57:00.000-07:00

Katia Lombardo and My-wardrobe.com paired up to show their support of Breakthrough Breast Cancer to design limited edtion stilletos in which 20% of the proceeds will go to the charity .

The simple but stylish pair of patent peep-toe stilletos feature a pink lacquer on the sole so that when you strut down the high street envious eyes will also see you're showing support for a noble cause.

Over 46,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer every year and Breakthrough Breast cancer aim to lower this with prevention and untilmately wipe out the disease with a cure.

my-wardrobe.com and Katia Lombardo have combiened the best of both worlds to support this charity so go buy your very own pair of limited edition shoes and be the most ethical diva on the high street !

Obama Just Stepped Up In Our Good Books

2010-10-05T09:23:00.000-07:00

If Obama couldn't be loved even more right now. The President of the United States just got ahead of his peers as just two months ago, we reported Daryl Hannah had voiced her opinions urging President Obama to re-instate the solar panels that Former President Reagan had removed during his time at the office. Well, we can gladly say Obama has listened to his constituents and announced plans for solar panels to be built back onto the White House by spring 2011.

Activists efforts were not in vain, as the solar panels will not only act as an electricity supplier but will also heat the First Family's water. The Solar Energy Industries Association had been also pressing on the White House to make this important change and when news broke, President Rhone Resch told the AP. "Putting solar on the roof of the nation's most important real estate is a powerful symbol calling on all Americans to rethink how we generate electricity."

Thank you for leading in example, sir.

Fancy working at London Fashion Weekend for charity?

2010-09-24T14:37:00.000-07:00

Friday 24th September - Sunday 26th September, Somerset House, London WC2R 1LA.

One of the busiest and trendiest fashion shopping events of the year, the Environmental Justice Foundation, EJF, are the official charity partner of London Fashion Weekend and have been donated two stands to fundraise and campaign for our ethical fashion campaign.

We are looking for a top team of brilliant volunteers to help to make the most of this fantastic opportunity.

Volunteers at the show we will be raising the profile of ethical fashion and funds for EJF's international campaigns.

In particular you'll communicate importance of organic sustainable cotton production that is free from forced child labour and environmental abuses - by:

Selling EJF's gorgeous, organic and fairly traded designer campaign t-shirts
Promoting EJF's first ever Fashion Raffle - We're going back to the old school in fundraising - if it's not broken don't fix it, right? We've rustled up nearly 100 amazing prizes and are hoping to raise critical funds through the sale of raffle tickets.

You will have a chance to learn key marketing, communication, fundraising and organisational skills while explaining the principles behind EJF's work.

Tickets for the event cost usually about £30 so it's a great chance to be part of the event for free while helping EJF's work.

Key skills needed include communication (in person), confidence and approachability, as well as enthusiasm and energy for the cause are vital.

We are looking for a big team of volunteers and ask for a minimum of two shifts from each volunteer - each shift will last an average of 6 hours.

Friday 24th September: 11am - 5pm / 4pm - 10pm
Saturday 25th September: 9.30am - 3pm / 1pm - 7pm
Sunday 26th September: 9.30am - 3pm / 1pm - 7pm

Please contact us by email with the days and times you are able to help with and any relevant experience.

This is a voluntary role and food expenses of £3.50 can be provided.

Please email larissa.clark@ejfoundation.org with the days and shift time you can help with – a minimum of 2 shifts is needed.

Recognise Magazine in the Metro newspaper AGAIN!

2010-09-20T13:05:00.000-07:00

RECOGNISE ISSUE 4!!

2010-09-20T13:04:00.000-07:00

OUT NOW!

ISSUE 4 HAS BEEN SENT TO THE PRINTERS!!!

2010-09-07T09:40:00.001-07:00

We are all so excited for you guys to see the new issue of Recognise! Stay tuned for the release date!

Wahiba x

VIDEO: Vivienne Westwood at Elle's birthday party!

2010-09-07T05:28:00.000-07:00

Endangered Green Sea Turtles escorted to safety at Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi Resort & Spa‏

2010-08-24T12:07:00.000-07:00

This August, after a nerve-wracking 54-day incubation period, Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi Resort & Spa was proud to welcome a batch of newly hatched Green Sea Turtles to the world. Emerging from eggs buried beneath the powdery white sand of the resort’s private beach, the rare and beautiful event was eagerly awaited by staff and guests alike.

“Sea turtles are among the world’s most ancient and serene creatures,” said General Manager Jean-Sebastien Kling. “We are very proud to be the chosen hotel of this endangered animal and took all precautions possible to ensure that as many of our ‘guests’ made their way to their ocean home as possible.”

With a thousand-to-one chance of newborns surviving to adulthood, sea turtles are extremely endangered. After hatching at night, they head blindly towards the sea, guided solely by instinct. Without support, as few as one in ten will survive to see sunrise, predated by opportunistic animals. For this reason with the help of specialist advice, Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi Resort & Spa took steps to ensure their safety; including sign-posting the nesting site to make certain the eggs were not trampled.

A full gallery of photos of one of nature’s most phenomenally enchanting events can be found on the Hilton Maldives Iru Fushi Resort & Spa Facebook page, and for more information on the resort or for bookings please visit www. MaldivesIruFushi.hilton.com. or email reservations.irufushi@hilton.com

Gabby Young

2010-08-23T10:02:00.000-07:00

Gabby Young and Other Animals have always been more than just another band. Launching her career on her own record label, Gift of the Gab Records after recovering from thyroid cancer, Gabby Young has never done things by the book. Not content with creating her own sound, she's even developed her own genre; 'Circus Swing', born from her love of theatrical stage costumes and all things jazz.
Gabby even invited her creative friends to sell their wares at her early gigs, turning them into mini festivals.This collective evolved into Gabberdashery, made up of jewellery makers, milliners, artists and craftspeople designing bespoke, handmade pieces inspired by Gabby's individual style. Part period drama, part Bjork, her stage outfits never fail to impress, combining vintage pieces, upcycled designs and work from ethical designers. She's pioneered the likes of Beautiful Soul who rework vintage kimonos, and Kumiko Tani who creates couture costumes made entirely from newspaper, giving her a look as distinctive as her sound.

Making The Most Out Of The Smallest

2010-08-17T06:54:00.000-07:00

Getting the maximum possible use from a minimum amount of space is the key to living in Tokyo, so this tiny house uses an ingenious stacked box construction that creates its own storage space.
Designed by Architect Yasuhiro Yamashita, the Cell Brick House uses 18-in by 36-in steel boxes. Which includes ceramic tile cladding to insulate the structure from heat and cold, two bedrooms, living room, and a kitchen which are adequatley spread over two floors connected by a spiral staircase, while a full basement and roof garden provide a little additional space. All this on a plot about the size of a typical American one car garage.

The boxes are open to the inside of the house, so their 12-in depth makes every interior surface into an endless wall of cubbies that can be used for storage. Pretty cool, huh ?

This is an impressive use of space, although I expect not having a clear view of the outside gets very claustrophobic. Well, you can always escape to the roof garden !

via DVICE

Paris Just Being A Tease

2010-08-17T06:06:00.000-07:00

Paris Hilton was out recently launching her newest fragrance 'Tease', and you're probably wondering what's so blog-worthy about this. Well, if you look at the picture then you'll notice she is wearing what seems to be a fur jacket and being the self-proclaimed animal lover she is, you'd think she would never wear such an item and you're right ! Stylist has confirmed that Paris was merely wearing “Chopard diamonds and outfitted in a white Herve Leger bandage dress, Louis Vuitton cream colored heels and jewel-encrusted clutch and a faux fur jacket.”

If You're Ever In Manchester...

2010-08-17T05:50:00.000-07:00

If you're ever passing through Manchester, check out the first ever Kuyichi store that just opened on the 12th August. For those who haven't heard of Kuyichi, Kuyichi is an ethical fashion brand for fashion forward young people, established in 2000, they were actually the first denim label to make good use of organic cotton.

If you're wondering what Kuyichi means 'It comes from the Peruvian god of the rainbow, who, as myth suggests, pinched the colours of life from the Taquille Indians. They weaved glorious blankets and in return Kuyichi returned their colours.'

Portobello Rocks !

2010-07-13T08:23:00.000-07:00

Savoretti and Jones are due to perform and Ifans is among those attending the Notting Hill arts event aiming to raise funds to support Portobello Road street market. Which takes the form of a free public event for local traders and residents during the day (officially opened by Big Issue founder John Bird) followed by the evening's entertainment. Also features The Rotten Hill Gang, The Walkers and Val Jobara.

See You There...

MELT! FESTIVAL 2010!

2010-07-13T07:13:00.000-07:00

The Melt! Festival is a music festival in Germany and has been around since November 1997.

Franz Ferdinand, Scissor Sisters, La Roux, Gossip and Michael Mayer are amongst many other artists and bands who have previously headlined the festival.

This year just to mention Friendly fires, Blood red shoes and 2 door cinema club will be amongst the many acts performing at the open air festival.

The three day festival begins on the Friday 16th and ends on Sunday 18th July. Unfortunately for some, tickets are already sold out! But if you've got a ticket, we hope you enjoy the festival!

The All-Electric Roadster 2.5

2010-07-06T09:19:00.000-07:00

In conjuction with the opening of two new stores in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Newport Beach, California.Tesla has revealed their All-Electric Roadster 2.5, not much changes to the engine but the car aesthetic has had a facelift worth it's price tag.

With a reshaped grill, new rear bumper with a diffuser element, improved seats for comfortability, and the overall finish of surfaces has been improved with a seven-inch touchscreen display with a backup camera is available as an option.

I'm sure alot of us would want to purchase this right now, but the price tag is abit hefty ! But we're sure your favorite celebrites will be soon spotted in these beauties...

Daryl Hannah gives President Obama a piece of her mind

2010-07-06T08:57:00.000-07:00

Actress Daryl Hannah has voiced her opinions urging President Obama to reinstate solar panels on the White House. A person who walks the talk, Hannah has been running her home on solar power and driving a car that runs on biodiesel.

Hannah recently told 'You magazine', "I’m pleased about the organic vegetable patch on the White House lawn, but Obama needs to put back the solar panels on the roof; Jimmy Carter put them up, Reagan took them down, and now it’s time they were reinstated."

We would love to see Obama set such a trend amongst his political peers through this !

Let's see what happens...

Jenna Dewan shows her animal side in new PETA ad

2010-07-06T08:18:00.000-07:00

“I couldn’t believe that that is what happens for a wallet or a purse,”

The Step Up actress decided to swap her dance costume for snakeskin body paint, in order to express her opposition on the use of fashion accessories made from snakes, lizards, alligators and all other animals in the new "Wearing Exotic Skins Kills" PETA ad.

Check out behind the scenes of the shoot & an interview with the star

“There are many fashionable and cruelty-free alternatives to using real animal skins. Fake snake, mock croc, and pleather are a few realistic and luxurious materials that can be used to achieve the same look—without stealing someone else’s skin. Popular retailers such as Victoria’s Secret, H&M, Overstock.com, Cole Haan, and Nike have all signed PETA’s pledge promising never to sell exotic skins.” - PETA

2010-07-01T08:17:00.000-07:00

Last week in Hollywood a casually cool Halle Berry was spotted wearing a LIV GRN eco-friendly t-shirt.

RecogniseMag

A-dressing domestic violence

We hit Timberland's Power Camp at Camp Bestival

The Big Audition

The Damage of Denim

The Real Cost of Medicine

EU Commission work towards sustainable Biofuel production

Conservation on Camera

Sex and the City star Kristin Davis Lends Her Support to the Oxfam Kenya Appeal

FISHED AND DIMINISHED

Wake up to fairtrade...coffee.

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Peace One Day concert at the O2 Arena

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JESSICA OGDEN FOR ASOS

Jessica Ogden is creating an eleven-piece collection for ASOS, Made in Africa. The collections are produced in Kenya to support the work of SOKO (a workshop that is dedicated to developing a sustainable and long term solution to the economic problems in the Kenyan community).

ASOS will be donating £5 from every item sold from both the ASOS Africa and Jessica Ogden for ASOS collections to enable SOKO to build a new workshop; ASOS will match fund each purchase with an additional £5! So get buying!

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Jessica Ogden is creating an eleven-piece collection for ASOS, Made in Africa.

The collections are produced in Kenya to support the work of SOKO (a workshop that is dedicated to developing a sustainable and long term solution to the economic problems in the Kenyan community).

NER*D's eh ? What Would We Do Without Them ?