The Body Shop Activist

The Activist blog...

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 22:16:00 PDT

Hi there fellow Activists!

A little note to say that we are winding down our Activist blog and the blog’s last day will be next Friday 29 March 2013. That doesn’t mean The Body Shop Social Activism is being wound down. Our activism and values are part of our DNA, have been for 30 years, and we are just going to put all our values content in one place to make it easier! Check out our Latest Stories in the values section of our website for updates on issues and campaigns in our community. And our Facebook page will also be a regular source of information on causes and campaigns. Because that’s who we are. We run a successful business so we can invest in the causes we’re all passionate about!

We look forward to sharing the next chapter of our journey with you all.

EU set to ban animal testing for cosmetics forever!

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Thu, 07 Feb 2013 21:39:00 PST

Campaign pioneers The Body Shop and Cruelty Free International celebrate after 20 years of activism

After over 20 years of campaigning, ethical beauty retailer The Body Shop and non-profit organisation Cruelty Free International are finally celebrating the end to animal testing for cosmetics in Europe with the anticipated announcement that the import and sale of animal tested cosmetic products and ingredients is to be banned in the EU on 11^th March 2013.

This ground breaking victory means that from 11^th March onwards, anyone who wishes to sell new cosmetic products and ingredients in the EU must not test them on animals anywhere in the world. The ban affects all cosmetics including toiletries and beauty products from soap to toothpaste. The Body Shop is one of the few beauty brands who will not be affected by the ban, having always been Against Animal Testing.

The Body Shop and Cruelty Free International are launching a range of special commemorative activities in the countdown to 11^th March, sparked by personal confirmation from Commissioner Tonio Borg that the ban is due to go ahead as proposed. Mr Borg wrote in a recent letter to the animal testing campaigners, “I believe that the ban should enter into force in March 2013 as Parliament and Council have already decided. I am therefore not planning to propose a postponement or derogation to the ban.”

The proposed ban sends a strong message worldwide in support of cruelty free beauty and in particular to countries such as China, who still demand animal testing for cosmetics, to also respond and ban testing on animals.

Cruelty Free International Chief Executive, Michelle Thew said: “This is truly an historic event and the culmination of over 20 years of campaigning. Now we will apply our determination and vision on a global stage to ensure that the rest of the world follows this lead.”

Paul McGreevy, International Values Director at The Body Shop paid tribute to customers who have supported the company's campaign against animal testing in cosmetics for many years and said: “This great achievement in Europe is only the closure of one chapter. The future of beauty must be cruelty free.”

In 1991, the BUAV (founder of Cruelty Free International) established a European coalition of leading animal protection organisations across Europe (ECEAE) with the objective to end the use of animal testing for cosmetics. This set in motion a high-profile public and political campaign across Europe spanning over 20 years. In 1993, The Body Shop, the first beauty company to take action on animal testing for cosmetics, supported the campaign by enlisting the support of its consumers across Europe. Three years later in 1996, Dame Anita Roddick, founder of The Body Shop, joined members of the ECEAE and MEPs in presenting a petition containing 4 million signatures to the European Commission.

In 2012, the BUAV established Cruelty Free International, the first global organisation dedicated to ending cosmetics animal testing worldwide. The Body Shop together with Cruelty Free International launched a new international campaign which has so far resulted in customers from 55 countries signing a global pledge supporting an end to animal testing for cosmetics forever.

Think Positive!!

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 18:29:00 PST

Australians are becoming increasingly pessimistic according to many studies. The six-monthly Ipsos Mackay Report, for example, recently found that 95% of participants felt the same or worse than they did 12 months earlier. And the media is frequently full of stories about sagging confidence in various aspects of Australian life.

How can this be when Australia is the envy of the world, enjoying low unemployment rates and excellent access to health and education services? Do we need a little perspective?

The Body Shop is starting 2013 the way it means to go on – by encouraging people to recognise how much more we can achieve personally, in the community and for the country as a whole when we adapt a positive mindset. While other retailers promote post-Christmas sales, The Body Shop is using its energy and visibility to call on all Australians to celebrate that our glass is most definitely half-full.

All stores across Australia are spreading this message by giving away more than 100,000 Think Positive booklets, along with bumper stickers, postcards and various other collateral encouraging people to reframe their lives. And only positive songs selected by staff will play in stores for the duration of the campaign, which runs from 26 December to January 20. After that, the focus will switch to thinkpositive.org.au, an online portal for generating, sharing and spreading positivity. Staff from across the business were keen to participate as much as possible and are featured in the images and collateral supporting the campaign.

This campaign is being run across the entire Australian-owned Adidem Group, the parent company of The Body Shop Australia. The philosophy of the Adidem Group is represented by three, interlocking and equally balanced circles of economic success, stakeholder fulfilment and positive social and environmental change. The Adidem Group’s values mission is to "be active, be daring, and influence by delight". The Think Positive campaign will lay the foundation for campaigns throughout 2013.

Graeme Wise, founder of The Body Shop Australia and executive chairman of The Adidem Group, says: "A positive mindset is crucial to reaching one’s full potential, and the vital first step in achieving great things. Our staff epitomise positivity and I believe they are the perfect people to communicate this campaign."

For more information, visit thebodyshop.com.au and thinkpositive.org.au

For media enquiries, please contact:
Martin Hughes                                                              Tegan Hammett
Communications Manager, The Adidem Group           Communications Coordinator, The Adidem Group
03 8561 7455, 0408 101 72                                          03 8561 7449, 0431784613
martin.hughes@adidem.com.au                                   tegan.hammett@adidem.com.au

Share for a Square

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Sun, 25 Nov 2012 21:49:00 PST

Check out the below post from our friends at The Big Issue.

Lisa Wilkinson supports our online billboard campaign

We're proud to announce the launch of 'Share for a Square' - a unique social media campaign to raise awareness of our Women's Subscription Enterprise. It's our first major social media campaign and one that could make a difference to some of the estimated 46,000 women homeless in Australia each night.

The Women's Subscription Enterprise employs women to pack and dispatch subscriptions to The Big Issue magazine every fortnight. For every 100 subscriptions sold, one disadvantaged woman can be employed.

As part of the campaign, which has been developed by creative agency the blue group, we're asking you to upload your photo into the image of the Women's Subscription Enterprise icon through a Facebook application.

Upload your headshot to show your support!

All you need to do is simply:

1. Upload your face to an online billboard on facebook
2. Share this support via facebook or twitter
3. Your face is allocated one square on the online billboard

If you take out a subscription, you're allocated 100 squares.

All images received will be used to create real billboards promoting the Women's Subscription Enterprise nationally in early 2013.

The goal is to fill 100,000 squares over the next three weeks. Regardless of whether you buy a subscription or simply support the campaign, you're helping spread the word about this important initiative.

All you've got to do is take part. Once, or as often as you like.
And tell your friends and family about the campaign too.

Cheers,

The Big Issue

Really Wild Christmas Gifts

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 16:36:00 PST

Christmas is coming and time is running out to find that perfect last-minute gift. Beat the crowds this year and head to https://www.reallywildgifts.org.au/news

Really Wild Gifts is the perfect way to give a gift to a loved one as well as helping to stop many animals from suffering. When you purchase a ‘Really Wild Gift’ you’re helping support WSPA’s work around the world to help animals in need, including bears, dogs, donkeys, elephants, sheep and many more.

Every gift comes with a card of your choice. Send an instant e-card by email, be mailed a beautiful card that you can personalise yourself or print the card straight away.

Whichever ‘Really Wild Gift’ you choose, you will be helping WSPA bring veterinary care, safety and protection to animals all over the world.

Short film 'Ruby' gives a look into the devastating reality of forced adoption

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Sun, 23 Sep 2012 22:42:00 PDT

Lost and found, the reality of forced adoption as it continues today.

Short film 'Ruby' gives a look into the devastating reality for some.

For many of us here in twenty first century Australia, the concept of forced adoption may seem almost medieval. But it is something that occurs still in America and The UK. Writer and director Matt Graham has found he is only scratching the surface on the topic as he researches for his upcoming short f ilm 'Ruby'. According to his findings though there are many reasons for it still happening, there is little support for it's victims wether it be parent or child.

'Ruby' follows the story of young Abbie, played by Yasmin Horner, who had her daughter taken from her at birth and is determined to get her back. With original music from local artist Abby Smith in collaboration with The Engine Room Project and Spinach Puff Productions 'Ruby' looks to expose light on the conflicting issue, as Director Matthew Graham points out.

The campaign for Ruby begins on the 10th of September as the source funding it goes live and project gets into full motion of getting for production. Matt has huge plans for Ruby hoping to send it overseas for Sundance as well as making it a success locally. With support from advocacy groups he hopes that with a spotlight on this film he be able to shine some of that light onto the hard work these groups do to provide support for people affected by this.

To find out more about Ruby follow the films progress on Facebook at or on Twitter @findrubyshort. Or if you would like to show your support and get involved with the campaign visit http://www.indiegogo.com/FindRuby

Contact:
Director & Writer: Matt Graham
Phone: 0405 184 086
Email: mgraham_1974@hotmail.com

Oscar's Law Puppy Farm Awareness Rally 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Thu, 20 Sep 2012 23:12:00 PDT

On Sunday the 16th of September, for the third year running, thousands of passionate dog lovers came together to lobby the government to introduce legislation that will ban puppy farms in Australia.

Three rallies were held simultaneously in Adelaide, Sydney and Melbourne. Guest speakers included the likes of Derryn Hinch, Elizabeth Anile - founder & director of ATAAC (Australian Teens Against Animal Cruelty), Andrew Byrne, Chief Veterinarian at the RSPCA Victoria, Trish Burke from Pet's Haven Animal Shelter, and Debra Tranter, founder of Oscar's Law.

Thousands of dogs all over Australia live in appalling conditions every day in puppy farms, due to very poor animal welfare legislation, and a lack of interest in the issue from councils and State Government. Dogs are kept in small cages, live in their own faeces, do not receive veterinary care, and are breed continually until their bodies fail them. Their puppies are taken from them and sold to pet shops, often with inherent medical issues taken on by unassuming buyers. Puppies are not desexed prior to sale, creating issues of unwanted litters.

Don't believe the lies. Don't fall for the cute puppy in the window. There is a dark side to the pet industry that they don't want you to know. It is estimated that 250,000 thousand cats and dogs are euthanaised in this country a year, due to dumped, sick and undesexed pets. Stop and think about that number for a minute. Imagine what it looks like. Then remember, this number is PER YEAR, unless we act and do something.

Don't buy your dog or cat from a pet shop or online. Visit a shelter, save a life. Find a reputable breeder - not registered, REPUTABLE; there is a difference.

I WANT OSCAR'S LAW.

Photos from Melbourne's Rally

Oscar's Law Puppy Farm Awareness Rally

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 23:03:00 PDT

Do you have plans this weekend? Melbourne, Sydney & Adelaide friends should head down to the Oscar's Law Puppy Farm Awareness Rally.

What is Oscar’s Law you ask? Oscar's Law is an organisation that has three main objectives:

 To abolish the factory farming of companion animals

 To ban the sale of companion animals from pets shops/online trading sites

 To promote adoption through rescue groups/pounds/shelters

Puppy farms are hideous places that house hundreds of dogs in cold sheds. The dogs are continually bred, live in their own faeces and do not see the light of day let alone get any exercise. The dogs are denied veterinary care as this would affect the farmer’s bottom line; many of the dogs live with matted fur, infections, rotten teeth and injured limbs.

Charlie’s Story

My name is Charlie. I think I am 7 years old.
In September 2010, I was rescued from a puppy farm in Gippsland.

I think I have been there all my life as I am not toilet trained, and I don't know how to sit, come, stay, etc. I was used for breeding puppies to be sold to pet shops.

The people at the puppy farm did not look after me well. I had a very bad eye infection that was never treated, and when I was taken to the RSPCA they had to remove my eye. I also had very bad tartar on my teeth, I had to have a teeth removed as they were rotten, and I had a double ear infection. I am overweight from bad food, which would have also contributed to my teeth problem. Being overweight is very hazardous to my health as my legs are very short, and excess weight can cause lots of problems.

I am a shy girl but very loving. I don't know why they treated me like this. I tried to make them love me at the puppy farm but they didn't care, they didn't take any notice of me.

Now I am in a home with 2 other dogs and some cats. I get lots of love, and I even have my own bed. My owners pat me, play with me and hug me. They look after me.

I am very aloof, and it has taken me a long time to realise that there is more to life than just food! I am learning from the other two dogs, and have just realised how nice it is to have pats and attention from my owners.

After 5 months in my new home I have just learned to play for the first time. I LOVE my new squeaky ball!! I didn’t realise how fun it was to chase a ball. I had never played before and I now play every day with the big dogs!

Three weeks after I learned to play I hurt myself, you guessed it, playing. I went to the vet and had x-rays, and I had ruptured my cruciate ligament in my back left knee, and had to have a knee reconstruction.

As well as that, the x-rays showed that my back right knee was also very unstable and so were my hips. In the future I may have to have surgery on them as well.

I am one of the lucky ones. I was allowed to be rescued because I needed urgent veterinary care for my eye. Most of my friends are still at the puppy farm. They will probably die there.

Never buy a puppy from a pet shop. Tell the Government we want Oscar's Law.

For more information on Oscar’s Law, please visit: www.oscarslaw.org

You can find out the RSPCA’s stance on puppy farms by visiting: RSPCA and Close Puppy Factories.

Please find below the details of the three rallies.

**Photo of Charlie by Pipsqueaks Photography

Super Trawler BANNED from Australian waters!!

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 22:33:00 PDT

FANTASTIC NEWS FRIENDS!

The super trawler has been banned from Australian waters for the next 2 years! This is a massive achievement for people power, with massive pressure put on the government from Greenpeace and the public.

Please see the below press release from Greenpeace:

Tuesday, September 11, Sydney: Greenpeace congratulated the Gillard Government today for showing the courage to prevent the Abel Tasman super trawler fishing in our waters. Greenpeace hailed it as a victory for the Australian community which has united to reject this monster ship. The decision also sends a message to the global super-sized fishing fleets that world community opposition is growing to their unsustainable business model.

“This is what happens when we all stand together,” said Greenpeace Head of Campaigns Ben Pearson. “Thousands of people across the country turned out to rallies, sent letters to editors, and pressured their local MPs. More than one person signed the Greenpeace ‘No super trawlers’ every minute.”

“The two year ban is welcome and we always support more scientific investigations into how we manage our oceans more sustainably,” said Pearson.

Greenpeace will continue its global campaign against over-fishing and super trawlers like the Abel Tasman.

“The decision today by the Gillard government will give heart to communities and campaigners across the globe who continue to oppose super trawlers like the Abel Tasman and the devastating business model it represents.”

“The global overfishing problem has not gone away”, said Ben Pearson. “There is 2.5 times more fishing capacity in the world than there are fish. This decision will put pressure on the European Union to withdraw their subsidies from the super trawler fleet and is a step towards more sustainable fishing.” said Pearson.

5 years on...

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Mon, 10 Sep 2012 00:20:00 PDT

5 years ago today the world lost a remarkable woman. A woman who not only changed the way business was done, but a woman who pioneered ethical consumerism.

I have heard many amazing stories about Anita, from how she remembered staff members she had met for 5 minutes 2 years earlier, how she was down to earth, and that she had a wicked sense of humour. There was one common thread in all the stories - with Anita, always expect the unexpected!

If there is one thing we can learn from Anita, it is that all of us can make a difference. Quotes like: "If you think you're too small to have an impact, try going to bed with a mosquito*" and "Do something. Do anything. JUST DO SOMETHING" will always stay with me. We can all have a positive impact on the world. Even if it's just one person’s world, you've still made an impact.

This week is Anita Week. I challenge you all to do something different this week. Do something for someone else. Do something you've kept putting off. Do something outside your comfort zone. Do something for a cause you believe in. Just do SOMETHING.

"I wake up every morning thinking…this is my last day.
And I jam everything into it. There’s no time for mediocrity.
This is no damned dress rehearsal. You’ve got one life, so just lead it.
And try to be remarkable."

*Quote by Betty Reese used frequently by Anita

WSPA Stand up for Animals Campaign comes to a close

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Wed, 29 Aug 2012 22:29:00 PDT

WOW! 77,837 people have signed a little orange person over the past four weeks voicing their opposition towards live exports.

That is a lot of people standing up for animals!

Thank you to everyone who visited one of our 88 stores across Australia to take part in our campaign.

What next? WSPA will present these numbers to government to make sure they know that this issue hasn't gone away and neither have we!

Keep sharing the message - live exports is not the answer! Moving towards a chilled meat trade will create more jobs in Australia, as we'll need more people to process the animals and meat products here. There are alternatives!

MPs getting involved and standing up for animals!

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Sun, 12 Aug 2012 22:43:00 PDT

We are really pleased that a number of Federal and State MP’s and Senators have taken time out of their busy schedule’s to visit their local Body Shop to find out more about the WSPA live export campaign.

One aim of this partnership is to put serious pressure on the government to make positive changes for animals and move towards the alternatives to live export and it seems the message is starting to get through!

Staff spoke to their local representative about the alternatives to the trade, the number of people who have supported the campaign (30,000 in one week!) and the fact that this campaign with WSPA is looking at win-win opportunities for farmers, the economy, jobs and the animals. We even created an 'I Stand Up For Farmers' flyer to give out alongside the 'I Stand Up For Animals' flyer!

Tony Zappia, the Federal Member for Makin said on his visit to the Tea Tree Plaza store “I commend the Body Shop for its public stance against animal cruelty.”

Tammy Franks MLC, stated on her visit to the Adelaide Central Plaza store “The vast majority of Australians are opposed to the live export trade with ever-increasing numbers of people becoming aware there are better, more humane ways to sell our livestock that value add to the Australian economy, rather than exporting Aussie jobs.”

Also visiting their local stores was Federal MP for Melbourne, Adam Bandt, Federal Member for Calwell, Maria Vamvakinou, South Australian Senator, Nick Xenophon, Federal Member for Greenway, Michelle Rowland, Federal Member for Robertson, Deb O’Neill and Federal Member for Shortland, Jill Hall.

At the end of this campaign, a number of The Body Shop staff will be taking the chain of little orange people that has been created in-store to their Federal MP, to let them know that live export hasn’t gone away, and neither have they!

Thank you to all the politicians who have shown their support. To add you voice, head to your local Body Shop store today and sign up. Every signature counts!

First week of the campaign, over 30,000 little orange people signed!

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Mon, 06 Aug 2012 21:03:00 PDT

At the end of the first week of our Stand Up for Animals Campaign, we are very excited to say it has gone extremely well with 30,091 little orange people signed!

Our staff and customers have been enthusiastically getting behind the campaign and not only signing the petition but taking photos with our big orange people (see photos below!)

This campaign is very important as many people think that the live export issue has been solved – but it hasn’t, it’s still cruel and it’s important we get that message out.

The signatures that we will gain, and therefore the partnership itself, are putting serious pressure on the government to make positive changes for animals.

Only two weeks remain of the in-store promotion so make sure that you get down to your nearest Body Shop store and sign a little orange person to tell government that live export hasn’t gone away and neither have you!

Each little orange person signed will be taken to Parliament ahead of the Federal election next year. The more little orange people signed, the greater traction we can have with government to make sure action is taken on this issue and we start to move towards the alternatives to live export.

So if you want to take a stand on live exports, get as many people as you know to go to The Body Shop and sign a little orange person!

Almost 7 in 10 Australians against live animal export

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Sun, 29 Jul 2012 23:42:00 PDT

New research commissioned by the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) has shown the widespread opposition to the live export trade. 69% of respondents believe that the live export trade should be ended.

The research also showed that 74% - or 12.4 million Australians – would vote for a politician who promised to end the live export trade.

Women (78%) are more likely than men (60%) to agree that live exports should be ended, whilst young people aged 18-24 years are the most likely age group to think that the trade should end. Victorians (73%) are more likely than Australians from other states to believe that live exports should be ended.

‘Stand up for animals’ campaign

The research has been released today to coincide with the start of WSPA’s ‘Stand up for Animals’ partnership with The Body Shop. The partnership will be in around 90 stores across Australia from 30 July – 19 August. During this time people are invited to visit a local Body Shop store and sign a little orange person, to join a chain to be delivered to local MPs, and then presented to Federal Government at the end of the campaign.

What was said

Jodie Jankevics, Campaign Manager for WSPA, said: “This research demonstrates the public opposition to the live export trade once again. There are viable alternatives that would benefit the Australian economy, farmers and animals so the time has come to embrace this win-win situation. With such a huge majority of Australians on our side, it is time for the government to look at supporting the chilled meat trade as the most viable alternative to live animal export.”

Mark Kindness, CEO, The Body Shop Australia, commented: “We are proud to support WSPA in a campaign that seeks to find alternatives to live export while simultaneously safeguarding existing jobs and creating new opportunities in Australia.”

The survey was a nationwide poll of 1036 Australians aged 18 and over, commissioned by WSPA and conducted by Lonergan Research in on 28 May 2012.

Australians start Olympic medal dash with world record…for animals

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Tue, 24 Jul 2012 00:11:00 PDT

With only three days to go until the Olympics, we have created a new world record on Australian soil

World record in Australia

To launch the biggest stage yet of the WSPA Humane Chain campaign, we gathered hundreds of Australians in Martin Place in Sydney this morning, who helped us break the World Record for the most people to ever stand up, simultaneously with their arms linked. The previous Guinness World Record was 45 people.

The record attempt was attended by Olympic gold and silver medallist Brooke Hanson and Lord Mayor of the City of Sydney, Clover Moore.

Brooke Hanson, Olympic gold and silver medallist, said: “With the Olympic Games on the horizon, it delights me that Australians are embracing the Olympic fever… and for such an important cause! To smash this record really shows that Australians have joined me in standing up for animals and hoping that Australia moves towards the alternatives to live export”.

Research

The record comes on the same day that new research commissioned by WSPA has shown that 12.4 million Australians (74% of respondents) claim that they are more likely to vote for a political candidate who promised to end live animal export. Almost four in five (78%) Australians believe live export is cruel.

Stand up for Animals campaign

With such strong popular support for the issue, the record-breaking event took place to launch the ‘Stand Up for Animals’ campaign, an in-store partnership between WSPA and The Body Shop. The campaign will demonstrate to the government, Australians and the world that live exports have not gone away… and neither have we!

The partnership will be in 90 stores across Australia from 30 July – 19 August. Head to your local Body Shop store and sign a little orange person, to join a chain to be delivered to a local MP, and then presented to Federal Government at the end of the campaign.

TBS Melbourne Central on Sunrise this Sunday!

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 21:43:00 PDT

Many of you will be familiar with the “Strength in Numbers” Values Partner campaign run in all TBS stores early 2011. (for more information, click here)

This campaign aimed to promote the Women’s Subscription Enterprise (WSE) – an initiative of The Big Issue to address the needs of homeless and marginalised women.

I am pleased to share with you that a group of these women recently graduated, having completed their Certificate III in Business as part of their employment package with the WSE. Prior to their graduation ceremony, 16 of the women took the opportunity to have their makeup done (complimentary) at one of the three The Body Shop stores in the city of Melbourne.

Eight of these women had their makeup done at Melbourne Central and Sunrise filmed one of the women having her makeover done by Jo Duclos – Melbourne Central Store Manager.

This story will go to air this Sunday, July 22 at 7.40am on Sunrise (Channel 7) so if you are up and about early on Sunday, please take the opportunity to tune in.

I would also like to take this opportunity to again say thank you to the teams from Bourke St, Collins St and Melbourne Central who helped to make the graduation very special for the women from the WSE. The women were professionally pampered and cared for and their self-esteem given a major boost.

Hope you get the chance to watch Sunrise on Sunday Morning!!

Join us to Stand Up for Animals …. and break a world record!

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Tue, 17 Jul 2012 18:05:00 PDT

We are very excited to announce our ‘Stand Up for Animals’ launch event which will be the beginning of a number of activities we have planned to tell the government that the issue of live exports has not gone away and neither have we!

On July 24, we will be launching one of our biggest ever Humane Chain campaigns where we hope to smash a Guinness World Record for the most people ever to stand up with their arms linked. By joining together a chain of passionate people, we can show the government, Australians and the world that this issue hasn’t gone away.

We are also very excited about our special guests, Australian Olympic gold medallist Brooke Hanson and Lord Mayor of the City of Sydney Clover Moore. They will be present at the event to support the crowd and help spread the message that we stand up for animals.

So come join us down at Martin Place to send a message to government that you care!

Event details
When: Tuesday, July 24
Where: Martin Place, Sydney
Time: 7am (for 7.30 start), Tuesday 24 July 2012.
What to wear: Lots of orange so we stand out! You can buy a ‘Stand Up for Animals’ t-shirt on the day too!

What next?
If you want to get further involved, visit a Body Shop store between 30 July and 19 August to sign a little orange person. Each little orange person will join the chain to be delivered to your local MP at the end of the campaign. By creating a chain of orange people, we can tell government loud and clear that we are united in our mission to seek an end to live animal exports.

We need your support on July 24, so please come join us! If you have any questions or want to help us at this event, please contact Katinka at KatinkaDay@wspa.org.au

Thanks and look forward to seeing you all there!

Cruelty Free International connects with The Body Shop customers in Australia to call for a ban on cosmetics testing on animals worldwide

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Sun, 15 Jul 2012 17:36:00 PDT

A global pledge to ban animal testing for cosmetics has been launched by The Body Shop in Australia as part of a campaign by Cruelty Free International, the first global organisation dedicated to ending the use of animals to test cosmetics products throughout the world.

The global pledge will be promoted by The Body Shop stores in 65 countries. It is the largest and most ambitious campaign ever to seek a global ban on the use of animals to test cosmetics.

There is no worldwide ban on animal testing for cosmetics. Despite progress with some countries and companies, over 80% of the world, still allows animals to be used in cruel experiments. Cruelty Free International works with governments, regulators, companies and partner organisations worldwide to place the issue of animal testing on the agenda of many governments for the first time.

In Australia, there is no formal ban on using animals for cosmetics testing nor is there a prohibition on Australian companies testing ingredients on animals overseas. States do have differing regulations that govern the nature and use of animal tests. However, Cruelty Free International is working to achieve a clear national ban on animal testing for cosmetics to ensure that Australia formally prohibits this practice nationwide.

Paul McGreevy, International Values and R&D Director of The Body Shop, said

"The Body Shop believes passionately that no animal should be harmed due to the demands of governments and regulators around the world. We have a long commitment to this cause, and unfortunately many people believe this issue is resolved and it is not. We are very proud to support Cruelty Free International’s campaign to achieve a worldwide ban on animal testing and encourage everyone to sign their pledge in our stores!"

Michelle Thew, Chief Executive, Cruelty Free International said

"The Body Shop has been internationally renowned for its Against Animal Testing stance right from the very start. It has led the way with their efforts to bring an end to animal testing, and Cruelty Free International is delighted that The Body Shop is supporting us with our ground breaking campaign."

The Cruelty Free International pledge is available in-store in Australia and online at

www.crueltyfreeinternational.org

www.twitter.com/CrueltyFreeIntl

www.facebook.com/CrueltyFreeInternational

"I love Kimberley" campaign petition handover

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Wed, 09 May 2012 18:50:00 PDT

Last night was the formal handover of the 24,131 signed “I love Kimberley” petitions (in the three boxes pictured) to Minister Tony Burke last night, Graeme, Ali & Don enjoyed an hour long chat with him after the handover.

Here's the money shot photo with The Hon. Tony Burke MP (Minister for Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities), Ali Ardern (The Body Shop Woden), Graeme Wise (Chairman of The Body Shop), Don Henry (CEO, Australian Conservation Foundation).

According to ACF: "While the Minister’s heart might be in the right place, Ali could not quite convince the Minister to join the others in making a heart shape with his hands! The busy staff in the Minister’s office were absolutely delighted to receive the small gifts of heart shaped soap and other products from The Body Shop – and the scent of The Body Shop will permeate the atmosphere there for a while."

Great work Ali! We're so glad you were there to represent our store staff!

Here's the media bite & the money shot of the handover:

The Body Shop customers call to protect our Kimberley

Over 24,000 Body Shop customers around Australia joined forces with the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) calling on the Government to protect the iconic Kimberley region.

Over a month-long campaign in September and October 2011, 24,131 Body Shop customers in 83 stores signed letters to Environment Minister Tony Burke urging the Government to protect the Kimberley’s natural and cultural values.

“We had an unprecedented customer response to this campaign highlighting the importance of protecting this outstanding region of Australia,” said Graeme Wise, Chairman of The Body Shop.

“While we have welcomed the National Heritage listing of the Kimberley, many real threats to the region loom, including Woodside’s proposed LNG hub at James Price Point,” said Don Henry, ACF CEO.

Happy 50th Anniversary Amnesty International

noreply@blogger.com (Adam Valvasori) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 19:58:00 PST

Watch this fantastic new video celebrating Amnesty International's 50th Anniversary.
Find out all the amazing things they do to defend human rights.

Support Amnesty International now! www.amnesty.org.au

In the lead up to Christmas 2011 The Body Shop Australia sold 79,020 Amnesty International Christmas cards - generating $102,330.90 in sales (100% of proceeds go to Amnesty International). We also proudly displayed the below posters in our windows promoting their Homelands campaign.

Support Amnesty International now! www.amnesty.org.au

Christmas Gifts that keep on giving...

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 20:51:00 PST

Have you finished your Christmas Shopping yet? There are plenty of great gifts you can give that help people in need all over the world.

How about scaling back on the gifts for family this year, and buy a gift for someone in need.

Below are some fantastic websites with great gift ideas that 'keep on giving'. And after all, giving to others is what Christmas is all about!

Give Now
Christmas Tips
Useful Gifts
Oxfam Gifts
The Smith Family
Berry Street Merry Christmas Appeal
World Vision Gifts

Labor party pledge moves live export debate forward

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 16:55:00 PST

Text and photos courtesy of WSPA

Labor has rejected a move to phase out live exports at this weekend’s National Party Conference, but WSPA is encouraged by moves to support alternatives to the cruel trade.

WSPA Captains demonstrating at the Labor Party conference

At Sunday's National Labor Party Conference in Sydney, MP Melissa Parke put forward an amendment asking delegates to support a four-year transition away from live export to a strengthened Australian chilled meat export trade – a move that would both protect Australian animals and promote Australian jobs.

The vote was so close that it was put to an official count, however sadly, support for the amendment fell just short with 173 votes for and 216 against.

WSPA Campaign Manager Jodie Jankevics said, “Whilst we’re disappointed Ms Parke's amendment didn't get through, we’re also very encouraged by Minister Ludwig’s move to create infrastructure that would support alternatives to the live export trade in the North.”

“Coupled with a stronger Labor focus on the elimination of chilled meat trade barriers such as tariffs, we believe practical steps are slowly being put into place to allow the supply chain to reduce its reliance on live export and move to a more humane and sustainable alternative.”

WSPA supporters’ efforts across the country through our "Move Forward" campaign have played a key role in raising awareness of the benefits of transitioning away from the live export trade with both the general public and importantly many key decision makers.

Since October, with the support of more than 100 volunteer Captains and their teams, we have generated over 80 pieces of media coverage nationally, had face-to-face meetings with almost 40 Labor representatives and union officials and collected over 11,000 new petition signatures.

Just one of many examples of a Captain who got published in her local paper.

It was all of this tremendous activity that helped make yesterday’s historic vote possible. Together we really have moved the debate around live exports forward and are now one step closer to ending this cruel and unnecessary trade.

On another positive note, Ms Parke also put forward an amendment this weekend calling for an Independent Commission of Animal Welfare, which was passed. WSPA would like to thank Ms Parke for all of her efforts to help improve animal welfare.

WSPA will continue to work with industry and Government to transition away from the live export trade to an alternative that protects animals from cruelty. With the start of a New Year just around the corner, we now have some new opportunities for change for animals that we can pursue - keep a look out for some exciting new initiatives in 2012!

Daniel Johns and Chris Cheney join forces with Wspa and offer signed guitar to help dogs around the world

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Tue, 22 Nov 2011 15:47:00 PST

Text and photo courtesy of WSPA

Two of Australia’s most prominent and successful rock musicians, Daniel Johns and Chris Cheney, have exclusively joined forces to raise funds and awareness for WSPA’s ‘Collars not Cruelty’ a campaign to help improve the lives of tens of thousands of street dogs around the globe. Both musicians are taking part in a competition to win a rockin’ Epiphone Les Paul Studio guitar signed by both and kindly donated by The Gibson Foundation.

Chris said, “Typically the only times where Daniel and I reconnect is for something purely for our own benefit, like at a gig or a festival. This is a cause, a mission, a message and something of importance.”

Daniel added, “This is something we could do on a selfless level, as soon as Chris and I heard about WSPA’s campaign and the 20 million dogs brutally slaughtered every year, we knew we had to ‘man up’ and do something about it.”

To enter the competition visit dollarsforcollars.org.au and buy a virtual collar for just $10 and tell us in 25 words or less why dogs mean the world to you. Two exclusive videos will then be unlocked featuring Daniel and Chris, one a more serious insight into the inhumane culling of dogs around the world, the other a candid and fun quiz where Daniel and Chris answer a series of dog-related questions with comical results.

All entries will be judged by Daniel and Chris and the most creative answer will win this fantastic piece of rock history. Each entry and virtual collar bought will donate vital funds to help convince the world to stop killing dogs in response to rabies and will help work with governments to stop the cruelty and instead run effective dog vaccination programmes.

Daniel will also personally sign a copy of Andrew Zuckermann’s acclaimed coffee table book ‘Music’ in which he is featured, as a special runner-up prize. Chris is generously providing a The Living End merchandise pack that includes a signed copy of Guitar Australia Magazine with him on the cover, a signed copy of ‘The Ending is Just the Beginning Repeating’ album, a signed The Living End t-shirt as well as a The Living End iPhone 4 cover, stickers and badges.

WSPA spokesperson Joanna Tuckwell said, “Every year up to 20 million dogs are inhumanely culled across the world - that’s the equivalent of 38 dogs every minute. These dogs are often poisoned, beaten or gassed to death as part of this culling process. Such cruelty is clearly unacceptable and we are proud and excited to have Daniel and Chris join WSPA as ambassadors for the ‘Collars not Cruelty’ campaign.”

Chris concludes, “The vital funds raised at dollarsforcollars.org.au will ensure that WSPA can campaign to let people know that vaccination and not culling, is the solution to the rabies problem. Upon vaccination these dogs are given red collars and communities then know that these dogs are safe from the disease, this is a noble and practical solution and you can help make it a success.”

To buy a virtual collar, unlock exclusive video content and a chance to win the signed guitar, visit dollarsforcollars.org.au. To see a special teaser video featuring Daniel and Chris visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9DbnJqb0wI

Herd of local people hits Melbourne’s streets to demand action from Labor on live exports

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Wed, 16 Nov 2011 17:55:00 PST

Text and photos courtesy of WSPA

A herd of animal activists wearing sheep and cow shaped billboards delivered end live export petitions and the findings of a new live export public opinion poll to the offices of Martin Ferguson, MP for Batman and Michael Danby, MP for Melbourne Ports today.

The national Lonergan Research survey, was commissioned by the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) and reveals that over 77% of the Australian public believe live export is cruel, and 80% of the population believe the Labor Party should reconsider its support of the disgraced live export industry and embrace a transition to locally processed chilled meat export.

The protest is part of a nationwide program of local events co-ordinated by WSPA, which is calling on Labor MP’s to shift support away from live export, and transition to a chilled meat export trade when they meet for the national Labor Party Conference in December.

Adam Valvasori, spokesperson for the group and Values Manager at The Body Shop said, “We’re here to let people know that live export is still happening. Australian cows and sheep are still being subjected to long, overcrowded and deadly transportation overseas; with the prospect of inhumane slaughter while fully conscious when they reach foreign abattoirs.

“Our local politicians need to know that the public still care about this national shame, so we’re presenting them with a humanechain.org.au petition, signed by over 800 people in Batman and 700 people in Melbourne Ports calling for an end to live export,” he concluded.

Jodie Jankevics, campaign manager at WSPA said, “Over 100,000 Australians have signed the humanechain.org.au petition calling for an end to live export, and we know many Labor politicians feel that protecting Australian jobs and animals by supporting a transition to chilled meat export makes sense.

“Labor currently supports live export, but the December Labor Party conference gives MP’s the opportunity to vote for a planned transition away from live export, to the more humane and economically viable chilled meat trade.

“We are calling on Martin Ferguson, Michael Danby and the rest of the Labor Party to take a stand for common sense and compassion by supporting a change in party policy that will end this unethical and outdated trade,” she concluded.

Live Animal Export Condemned in National Opinion Poll

noreply@blogger.com (Rachel Muraca) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 21:31:00 PDT

Below text and images courtesy of WSPA

A new national survey commissioned by the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) has revealed 77% of Australians still think the live export industry is cruel, despite Governments recent claims that new reform will reduce the abuse of exported Australian animals.

The poll conducted by Lonergan Research, also found that 80% of Australians believe Labor should support a phase out of live export, in favour of a local chilled meat export industry.

WSPA campaign manager Jessica Borg, said “No amount of spin can disguise the fact that live export is still an industry where sheep and cattle can be slaughtered inhumanely, while fully conscious.”

“Due to live export, tens of thousands of animals will still die horrific deaths from stress, starvation and disease on lengthy and overcrowded sea voyages."

"The poll results show Labor should not underestimate the continuing depth of public concern over this issue.

“In addition, more than 100,000 Australians have joined humanechain.org, WSPA’s online petition calling for an end to the live export trade and continue to do so.

“The local chilled meat export industry is a more humane and profitable alternative to live export and clearly has overwhelming support from the Australian community, as an alternative that also creates more rural jobs.

“The upcoming National Labor conference is a golden opportunity for the party to reconsider their stance, paving the way for a well-managed, practical transition away from the inherently risky live export trade,” she concluded.

Paul Crane, Export and Meat Manager at V&V Walsh’s said, “Labor are planning to pour over $10 million of public money into the live export industry, to help its overseas operations reach a lower standard than we already have in Australia.”

“With government and industry support given to the Australian chilled meat industry instead, we could grow the infrastructure needed to expand a more sustainable and profitable alternative to live export, which also brings bigger benefits to the rural economy and employment."

For more information, please visit: http://www.moveforward.org.au/