Clips from Sundance hit to open green show

The film "offers a passionate and inspirational look at one man's fervent crusade to halt global warming's deadly progress in its tracks by exposing the myths and misconceptions that surround it," according to David Rennick of The New Yorker. The film was launched this month in South Africa by United International Pictures.

The Natural & Organic Products Exhibition takes place at Gallagher Estate, 20 - 22 October. In its third year and with a growth from 64 exhibitors in 2004 to 220 in 2006, the exhibition is focused on the opportunities available for sustainable business development.

Hosted in conjunction with Organics SA and Farmer's Weekly, the Go Organic Conference is a basic introduction to organic growing methods and the marketplace for organics in South Africa.

Consumer friendly subject matter includes Living Naturally by Estie Schreiber and Irma Schutte, Passing the buck: Who is responsible for a healthy planet by programme manager of www.climatechange.co.za Dr Sue Taylor, of WWF/Green Trust; and Conscious Cooking by UK-based Alex Kirchin.

Additional speakers are Margaret Roberts and Carole Knight. Other highlights include:

The No Kak Eco-friendly fashion show: Design and textile students have entered the Environmentally Friendly Design Competition; putting "green" fabrics and fibres, including hemp, bamboo (the new cashmere), soy and organic cotton textiles to use in the design of garments and homewares. These will be showcased in a state-of-the-art "No Kak" fashion show on the exhibition floor. 21 short-listed finalists have been selected from around the country.

Organic babies: From home-grown organic baby food to organic baby linen and clothes, natural remedies and supplements for children to imported organic treats - the future generation promises to be well looked after.

Renewable energy sources: Sustainable and renewable energy supply offers a viable and cost-effective alternative. This forum's lobby is for sustainability to be implemented in all aspects of our lifestyles.

"Free range" cosmetics: Cosmetic and personal care producers recognise the need for chemical free ingredients to be included in their product ranges. This high performing market sector will continue to grow at 100% per year or more.

Organic wines:The top organic wine producers in South Africa are all exhibiting.

Great food experiences: Gallagher Estate will be this year's natural and organic destination. The creative catering team will serve only the best chemical free food to be found.

PhytoTrade Africa: The Southern African Natural Products Trade Association will be launching the PhytoTrade Africa Natural Product Awards. With prize money of US$5000, the awards will be judged by a panel of international natural products, fair trade and organic experts. Nomination forms will shortly be available on www.phytotradeafrica.com and www.naturalandorganic.co.za, where the general public can vote for their winner.

Dates and times

OPENING CEREMONY:
Date: 19 October 2006, with Sean Summers of Pick 'n Pay opening the evening's activities.
Times: 6pm - 8pm
Venue: The Natural and Organic Products Exhibition, Hall 5, Gallagher
Estate, Midrand, Johannesburg

EXHIBITION:
Date: 20 - 22 October 2006
Venue: Gallagher Estate, Midrand
Times: 10am - 5pm daily

For more information, go to www.naturalandorganic.co.za.