We recently had the chance to catch up with Pete May,
Money Saving Eco-Tips judge, avid West Ham fan, magazine columnist, author of football books and celebrated eco author of
There's A Hippo In My Cistern, published by HarperCollins.
Ooffoo (O): Hi Pete, thanks for taking the time to chat to us.
Pete May (PM): No problem, my pleasure.
O: Lets dive in. What & who inspires you?
PM: The laddish me or the eco me? An important distinction really although I find that identity doesn't change, its about what you do not who you are.
Ultimately would have to say my family, kids, the future really drive me forward. Possibly also a pint of Real Ale.
O: What would old Pete May have said to new? Have you surprised yourself?
PM: Clearing chicken poo, collecting eggs, compost loos - have surprised myself absolutely! Also I don't fly anymore, try to live a low carbon life and love roasting vegetables from my organic garden. I have no car and that shocked my parents to be honest.. Life seems totally different. Real Ale is the constant. Going to the Pub is so sustainable.
O: What do your old lads mag mates think? Have any come over to the green side?
PM: Most have moved on, grown up, had kids, probably but not sure I could take credit for it...
O: You are on a desert island: which book, song & luxury item would you want to have?PM: Well my family as my luxury item obviously. My book would be David Copperfield and my song would be London Calling by the Clash, quite an eco song really with lyrics like 'The ice age is coming'. If I could not take my family then a flush loo as invented by Thomas Crapper, one of the greats of our time!
O: What do you believe is the biggest problem humanity faces?
PM: Getting used to lower carbon use
O: Can we do it?
PM: I am an optimist. Bit of war time spirit, a decisive government, nothing like hard times to get people pulling people together. We waste so much so making savings won't be that hard. Most people want to do the right thing.
O: What do you love most about humanity?
PM: Our eccentricity, foibles and variety is fantastic.
O: Finally, would you give us your comments for our debates:
Does Britain need Nuclear?
PM: No. Once one gets past the creative accounting and Nuclear clean-up costs. and looks at the genuine alternative solutions it’s a definite no. Sadly the Nuclear lobby are very good at their jobs. But the staff at Sellafield were lovely when we visited.
Can an enlightened society eat meat?
PM: I'm mainly vege now but yes as long as its raised well it is not going to be eradicated. Meat should be a luxury for special occasions.
Organic food sales are down 19%. Is organic food sustainable?
PM: It is sustainable but will suffer like everything i.e. books, cds and so on. Tastes nicer and is better for you. We grow some of our own and they taste way better. There's always a market for good food. But non-organic has its place as well.
O: Any more books being planned?
PM: I could tell you but I'd have to kill you :) Am waiting to hear back from Hollywood on the movie rights. The Good Life 2.0 if you will.
Plus my lovely wife Nicola Baird has a new book due out herself late 2009/early 2010 called 'Bringing up Baby Green' (working title) so keep an eye out for that.
O: Great stuff, we will, thanks for your time Pete, it's been great talking with you.
PM: Cheers Ooffoo.