Where are we now?
We have been proposing and promoting the Project for a few years now, and have a set of concept drawings of the vessel which you can see on the various webpages. We have taken these to the experts for advice and approval, and two of these professionals have lent their name and support to the Project. Professor Takeshi Kinoshita, of Tokyo University is the titular head of the design project, and Peter Schenzle of Hamburg is a technical advisor.
We have also been consulting with NGOs that share our mission goals from all around the world to learn how we can best integrate our project into broader Development, Fair Trade and Social Justice movements. Through activities such as our Poster Contest, networking trips to Europe and America, as well as extensive participation in events and conferences here in Japan, we are steadily connecting with the groups that can help realize the Project and share its benefits.
We have investigated the process of applying for funds through grant-making organizations and corporations and are preparing the necessary information to do so. This includes preparing a budget, timeline, and specific details of the operations and activities involved - which is nearly complete. We have joined forces with a small fair trade enterprise called Sunship to co-operate in marketing and sales in return for a share of profits. Now, we are working on a schedule to have the first Greenheart ship in the water by the end of 2009. Since this is complex project with global scope and many diverse aspects, we can use all the assistance we can get. Anyone willing to help and interested in advancing this type of green and practical sustainability can be of service.If you are someone who...
...is able to do research on the Internet into specific areas of the project. For example, we will need lists of appropriate products, equipment, target communities, policies, clean technology innovations, events & festivals along our route, etc. Here, you can be very helpful while you learn about interesting subjects, and discover inspirational networks of activists around the world.
or...
...would like to make contact and correspond with people in governments, agencies, corporations, and NGO's that can co-operate with us to maximize the benefits of the Project. These positions are for those who would enjoy communicating with our network of partners and stake-holders around the globe.
or...
...has some expertise in the areas of sailing, engineering, logistics, purchasing, accounting, PR/media, commerce, or any of the many specialities that will be useful in such an ambitious enterprise, we can certainly put your skills to good use immediately.
Those knowledgeable, and those willing to learn about these issues, please contact us and get involved with part of the solution.
