The number of members from outside of North America, mostly from Europe, is increasing. This means that the number of potential members wanting to donate and/or buy EM stickers, t-shirts, etc. is also growing. Unfortunately, transfering money one way across the Pond and merchandise back again poses certain problems. For example, when I wanted to donate it turned out that the fee I would have to pay was roughly equivalent to the sum of the donation. I'd prefer to give that extra money to EM than to some anonymous financial institutions. I got lucky and could transfer money through a different channel (a relative who was in the US, in exchange for a favor or two). Also, the window clings were sent through that channel instead of international postage.
So, what if EcoModder had a "division" in Europe? It would make sending money and merchandise much cheaper, easier, and faster.
Question to the Mods: Is this doable? Would it be possible for someone here in the EU to help deal with the European members? I'm thinking about maybe having the stickers and shirts made and distributed locally, while the donations and payments would cover the merchandise plus shipping, and any surplus would be transfered in bulk to the US headquarters (less individual transfers = less fees = more for EM
). Noticed the eco-friendliness of not having to physically ship stuff around the world?
Question to European members: If this idea can be implemented, would any of you be willing to take the responsibility? Recently I've been spending more time on EM than I should, so at moment I may become less active for a while. Maybe in the future I would be able to help, but not at the moment.