Month: October 2011

The CSIRO recently published their long awaited Climate Change book, Climate Change: Science and Solutions for Australia.[1] The publication provides fresh and up to date information on the latest scientific findings on many climate change topics relevant to Australia and the rest of the world. “Climate change research over many years shows links between human activities and warming of the atmosphere and oceans. This warming has caused changes to the climate system, such as changes in rain and wind patterns and reductions in Antarctic sea ice.”[2]

But what are the real implications for agriculture. How does the agricultural sector successfully adapt to climate change here in Australia, given we are already a continent of vast extremes and weather variations, which are only going to become more pronounced?

Envirosafe Solutions has taken a careful look at the publication’s chapter, “Adapting Agriculture to Climate Change,” and outlines the latest findings and information relevant to the sector.

Agriculture and changing conditions

Dr. Chris Stokes and Dr. Mark Howden know all about agriculture and climate change. It’s one of their specialist research areas. Both academics maintain that “helping agriculture adapt to climate change involves helping communities to understand why adaptation is needed.”[3] Education is key and Australians from the agricultural sector need to understand that new flexible, risk-based approaches will help, along with a simple adoption of already existing best practice management strategies and good natural resource management approaches. Radical and aggressive measures and changes to operations may not always be required, but there still is a national imperative to equip Australian agriculture to be prepared to adapt to climate change.

The sector, including fishing and forestry already copes with a harsh environment, and producers may in fact be well placed and already adept at continually managing their practices to deal with extreme conditions. Climate Change and global warming may well undoubtedly add a new aspect or dimension to these conditions, but because of the historical familiarity with extreme weather patterns, Australia’s agriculture sector may fare better than its counterparts from other regions on the planet.

Collaboration is the key

The authors however, point out that proper adaptation cannot be left to farmers and agriculturists or even governments alone. “Everyone involved in the food industry, including policy makers, research and development providers, enterprise managers, politicians and farmers can contribute to solutions by working in collaboration. For example, Governments can ensure that water and drought policies accord with successful farm adaptation and do not impede it.” [4] It is this collaborative approach that will ensure successful and timely adaptation occurs with minimal bureaucratic obstruction and red tape.

Envirosafe Solutions supports a collaborative approach to climate change for the agriculture sector. The sector needs to be supported through changes by bureaucracy, governments and government departments and various stakeholders. Farmers and agriculturalists need to be listened to and “every strategy should derive from working with farmers, fishers and foresters to develop a choice of alternative adaptations to suit the range of likely climates they may encounter.”[5]

Call Envirosafe Solutions for more information on how you can change your agricultural practices and product usages to safer alternatives.  1300 889070.

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[1] http://www.csiro.au/resources/Climate-Change-Book–ci_pageNo-10.html

[2] Ibid

[3] http://www.csiro.au/resources/Climate-Change-Book–ci_pageNo-11.html

[4] Ibid

[5] Ibid

Many Australian companies, groups and individuals have been tirelessly working on environmental issues for years. Some of these have banded together to strengthen their power and their activities for change. Envirosafe Solutions spotlights The Boomerang Alliance and gives you a profile on this particular group that is committed to a zero waste in Australia.

The Boomerang Alliance comprises a group of environmental organisations that are committed to bringing about a state of zero waste in Australia. Yes, it’s a tall order and a lofty ideal, but this alliance believes it is possible and attainable. “We commit to work for zero waste in Australia based on a mechanism of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for ensuring the elimination over time of all products and packaging from the waste stream. The goal of zero demands that Australia change course on waste as a matter of urgency or risk falling further behind world’s best practice.”[1]

The Alliance also promotes a redirection of the cost burden of waste disposal away from local government and ratepayers and towards those consumers and industries that are actually producing the waste litter and excess packaging to begin with. It also says penalising poor performers and rewarding companies that embrace cleaner production and waste and litter reduction is the way forward.

The group comprises many major environmental organisations:

• Greenpeace
• The Australian Conservation Foundation
• Friends of the Earth
• Conservation Council of Western Australia
• Clean Up Australia
• Total Environment Centre
• NSW Local Government and Shires Association
• NCC zero Waste Action Group
• Arid Lands Environment Centre
• Nature Conservation Council of NSW

Waste and You

Each and Every Australian actually produces or generates approximately 2 tonnes of waste annually. And only about 50% of this is recycled. 50 million tonnes of waste is produced annually nationally. And there are some simple things you can do to help:

• Use cloth shopping bags
• Reject or say no to plastic shopping bags
• Ask your local shops to forget about that paper bag and give you the purchased item without the packaging
• Place those newspapers in the recycling
• Re-use your old printed computer paper. The blank side makes great notepads when stapled together.
• Get the kids to convert cans to cash

E-Waste

What do you do with your old printers, computers and mobile phones? Do you simply throw them out into the garbage, or do you dispose of them responsibly? The Boomerang Alliance also states “the massive explosion in the electronics consumer market was not accompanied by consumer responsibility.”[2] Australia, like the rest of the world is in fact at the tipping point regarding e-waste with over 230 million e-waste items on their way to garbage dump areas and landfill sites at the end of 2009.

A National Waste Policy

Finally in 2010 a new National Waste Policy was introduced.  The computer and television industry were involved as were many major industries and government and corporations. This policy will help to streamline a national waste strategy where previously waste management was overseen by state and territory bodies.[3]

It also sets a clear direction over the next 10 years aimed at:

• Reducing waste generation
• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions
• Manage waste as a viable resource
• Ensure treatment, disposal, recovery and re-use is undertaken in a safe, scientific manner
• Develop employment associated with waste management and recycling

The policy will also be implemented at all levels, from local governments through to state and territory and on to the federal level. There will also be a focus on collaborative action and extended producer responsibility schemes that mean a producer is now responsible for the waste it produces right up until the end of the product’s life.

Envirosafe Solutions supports the work of the Boomerang Alliance and the new National Waste Policy strategy. Telephone Envirosafe Solutions and use green and eco-friendly products. 1300 889070.

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[1] http://www.boomerangalliance.org.au/images/pdfs/1_statement_of_position.pdf

[2] http://boomerangalliance.org.au/e-waste.html

[3] http://ephc.gov.au/sites/default/files/WasteMgt_Rpt_National_Waste_Policy_Framework_Less_waste_more_resources_PRINT_ver_200911.pdf

Australia is the only country-continent capable of massive fish production. However, the situation has significantly changed during the last century, and overfishing has become a serious problem for Australia. Stocks are down, and sustainable practices need to be introduced and considered.

Threats to Stocks

In 2005, 17 species of fish from a total number of 84 were considered to be in danger from overfishing. Given the fact that climate change will have an impact on sea life, affecting their natural habitat, it is hard not to relate one with the other.

Another issue found in Australian waters is related to illegal fishing. Trawlers often fish illegally without any permit, right under the noses of authorities. People fishing illegally do not keep count of mating seasons or fish migration. The Australian Coast Guard also spends a large proportion of time safeguarding against illegal fishing boats in our territories, which come down from Asia to trawl and net for our stocks.

Because of this, the natural balance is disrupted and several species endangered.

Climate change impact

Fish populations in Australia are also affected by climate change which in turn affects such issues as

• The unequal distribution of nutrients
• The invasion from exotic species
• Rising sea levels
• Currents in warm and cold water

These four elements are very connected to one another an disruptions in one may have a chain effect or reaction in another – all of which throws out the delicate aquatic conditions and balances that foster fish reproduction and spawning.

With the balance thrown out, an ensuing lack of food and lack of a secure place for laying eggs, may ultimately translate into species disappearance. It is estimated that Australia loses 20 species every year, on land as on sea, which could interfere permanently and irreversibly with the natural environment cycle.

Stealing fish

Overfishing, a major concern for all Australians, has been debated within the Federal Parliament on numerous occasions over the past few years. Green groups have even argued that the significant hike in fuel prices may help to curb the waves of overfishing that can occur.

This is because fuel represents 60% of the total capital outlay associated with fishing, and any fuel hikes can significantly affect duration of time out at sea for trawlers and sizeable fishing boats.

Of course multiple measures have been implemented, from increasing coast guard and water police patrols, to utilising new and better devices to spot trawlers. And of course illegal fishermen will come up with new innovative methods to fish, from dynamiting the water to tracking fish movements with radar; Aussie sea life continues to remain endangered, more now than ever before.

But in spite of this, there are companies and organisations attempting to make a real difference.

Envirosafe Solutions is always concerned for the waters surrounding the Australian continent, and that is why the company has developed an Extreme Green Range of products that have less impact than most other counterpart products on the market. If you would like to know more about the Envirosafe Solutions Extreme Green range, please contact 1300 889070 and speak with the sales staff who can assist.

Sources

http://www2.fisheries.com/archive/members/dpauly/chaptersinbooksreports/2006/fuelsubsidiesfisheriesglobally.pdf

http://wwf.panda.org/who_we_are/wwf_offices/australia/environmental_problems_in_australia/

Recently, there has been a lot of talk on the topic of electromagnetic radiation and the impact it may have upon human health.  Some scientists believe that electromagnetic radiation can cause genes to mutate, leading to health issues later down the track in life.  Of course, a few decried this as paranoia and conducted studies that would prove the exact opposite.

While some maintain there is no definite conclusion about EMR, other organisations such as ARPANSA – The Australian Government’s Electromagnetic radiation Complaints Register, consider otherwise. This site actually collects data and reports on possible damages to health because of EMR from mobile phones, microwaves, power-lines, induction heaters and other things.

So, is EMR dangerous or harmless?  Both theories have strong points and the results of the conducted studies sustain each one of them.

What are electromagnetic radiations?

Electromagnetic energy is all around us.  Examples of electromagnetic radiations are given by:

• Radio waves
• TV waves
• Radar waves
• Heat
• UV light
• X-rays
• Short waves
• Microwaves
• Gamma Rays

The most debated electromagnetic radiations are those emitted by the mobile phones.  Those radiations are believed to cause problems such as changes of skin colour, overexcited brain cells, or even cancer.

Sometimes, electromagnetic radiations are compared to chemical radiations within a nuclear reactor.  It is believed that, in time, the effect is similar to radiation poisoning resulted from nuclear residues.

While in Australia, and all around the world mobile communication is increasing, concerns are being expressed about the possible impacts of electromagnetic radiation on the human body.

According to studies, electromagnetic radiation may have a negative effect upon neurotransmitter balance, the cognitive function, and REM sleep pattern and may cause various brain diseases, such as brain tumours or brain cell damage.  However, most reported effects are rather small, as long as the intensity of the radiation remains with a given range.

Biological effects of electromagnetic radiation

Researchers blame many diseases on electromagnetic radiation.  For example, the radiation from GSM cell phones may cause a certain amount of stress to two of the proteins that exist in our skin.  Another study shows that cell phone frequencies have caused damage to the neurons of rats, directly affecting their cortex.

As we know, rats are physiologically similar to humans; the results may be conclusive but like everything else this debate has stirred, there’re opposing points of view on what the rats exhibited.

Also, Italian researchers have found that electromagnetic radiations have a negative influence upon the growth of leukaemia cells.  According to the research, leukaemia cells that were exposed to normal cell phone frequencies for 48 hours, started replicating more aggressively.

According to an additional Israeli study, people who use cell phones are often are more likely to develop a form of cancer that attacks the salivary glands.  Also, brain tumours, miscarriages, and lymphatic cancer have all been linked to electromagnetic radiation.

However, other scientists claim that even those results are accurate the possibility of developing any form of cancer only from using the mobile phone is minimal, since the electromagnetic radiation emitted by this device is not dangerous to anyone.

Be aware of the unseen impact of EMR and use telecommunications devices responsibly.

Envirosafe Solutions supports the responsible use of technology and believes a sustainable way forward for the environment and business can be achieved. Telephone to speak with Envirosafe Solutions about their environmentally friendly Extreme Green products. 1300 889070.

Sources:

http://www.arpansa.gov.au/RadiationProtection/emr/index.cfm
http://www.emwatch.com/EMF%20Effects.htm

http://www.lbl.gov/Science-Articles/Archive/electromagnetic-radiation-study.html

While heating and cooling concerns may not be as severe as those experienced by our European counterparts, there is no doubt the extremes of the Australian climate in some parts of the nation, means that energy expenditure must be monitored carefully. Summer in Australia can be very, very hot, and winters in the inland regions and in the southern states can be bitingly cold. This of course translates to the possibility of excessive spending and usage of energy. We warm our homes, we cool our homes. We try as best we can, to live comfortably on a continent of extremes and often rugged conditions. Today Envirosafe Solutions considers what each of us can do to minimise our heating and cooling costs. And in so doing, we reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help the planet on its way.

According to the Australian Government, heating and cooling of Australian homes and businesses can account for up to 40% of the total annual energy use. In some cases, it is even more.[1] But there are solutions and there are alternatives. There are various strategies and approaches you can adopt to cut down on your heating and cooling costs and here are just a few:

Passive Design

“Passive design is design that does not require any mechanical heating or cooling. Homes that are passively designed take advantage of natural climate to maintain thermal comfort.” [2] This involves such factors as:

• Shading
• Orientation of the build
• Designing with the climate in mind
• Utilising passive solar heating

If you are thinking about building a house, think about these factors at the design and planning stage. You may be surprised at how much money you can save in heating bills later on down the track once you are living in your new home.[3]

Other ways you can reduce your heating and cooling costs is to consider the modes of mechanical heating and cooling you use.

Mechanical Heating

If you cannot implement passive heating and cooling, then the next best option may indeed be to choose appropriate heating for your particular situation. This will depend on your individual circumstances. But here are few guidelines that may help you on your way:

• Gas heaters. These are cheaper to run than electric heaters and produce 1/3 greenhouse gas emissions than the electrical equivalent.
• Heat pumps or reverse-cycle air conditioners are the most energy efficient when it comes to electric heating
• Electric in-slab floor heating is the most expensive heating to run.

Mechanical Cooling

There are a number of mechanical cooling options to choose from:

• Fans. These are the cheapest option on the market and in less extreme areas of Australia may be sufficient to cool homes.
• Evaporative coolers. These are the preferred choice in areas where there is very low humidity.
• Air conditioners. These are by far the most damaging to the environment. Filters need to be cleaned regularly and conditioners that are not installed correctly or that are not maintained properly can cost you more.

Make sure to source the cheapest and most environmentally sound heating and cooling options.

For more information concerning environmentally safer solutions for our Australian environment, please contact Envirosafe Solutions. Envirosafe Solutions produces the Extreme Green Range of liquid products for business, the home and for industry. To purchase or enquire please call Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 889070.

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[1] http://www.livinggreener.gov.au/energy/heating-cooling

[2] http://yourhome.gov.au/technical/fs41.html

[3] Ibid