Month: March 2012

South Australia is preparing to ride the next wave of the nation’s mining boom. As the state gears up to meet infrastructure demands, environmental strategies including the use of eco-friendly industrial products remain critical.

A $30 billion expansion of BHP’s Olympic Dam uranium mine near Roxby Downs is the centerpiece of new mining and energy projects earmarked for South Australia.

Preparations are taking place ahead of the projected boom including:

• Government and industry working to meet demands for improved infrastructure including upgraded highways and airport terminals;
• Environmental impact statements being developed and implemented. As a heavy polluter, the mining industry has been required to embrace green revolution strategies ranging from alternate fuel sources and sustainable waste management to the use of environmental cleaning products;
• Regional towns and cities being promoted as fly-in,-fly-out or drive-in, drive-out bases for the mining workforce;
• Water requirements being investigated. As the nation’s driest state, SA’s water resources are scarce. Mining projects will be required to use eco-friendly liquid products to reduce the risk of water contamination.

The South Australian Chamber of Mines and Energy has warned the mining boom will only be realised if infrastructure can match demand.

“If the Government’s not prepared to take some sort of a stake in key infrastructure – not everything, just some key ones – then I think half of the potential jobs out there associated with the infrastructure and mining could be either not realised at all or put off for several decades,” SACME chief executive Jason Kuchel warned.

The 2011 Resources and Energy Infrastructure Demand report has predicted SA’s gas use will increase 20-fold by 2014 and power and water use will quadruple. Pressure on its airport and road system will be intense.

“It’s very clear the Government is going to have to take a greater role than just purely relying on the private sector to provide infrastructure,” Mr Kuchel said.

“In many areas the government can be justified about putting in dollars, especially where those dollars would be less than the royalties that they would otherwise not see had they not made the investment.”

The Olympic Dam expansion is predicted to create an estimated 6000 jobs during its construction phase and bring in taxes and royalties.

Its approval late last year was subject to 150 conditions aimed at ensuring environmental issues were addressed.

Environmentally friendly liquids including eco-friendly industrial cleaners reduce the threat of water and soil pollution from spills and contaminated wastewater.

Leading Perth-based environmental cleaning products supplier Envirosafe Solutions has a range of biodegradable products including hand wash, mineral deposit remover, dust suppressor, solvent-free degreaser and low-phosphate laundry powders.

While SA prepares for the economic benefits of the predicted mining boom the need for sound environmental practices has never been more critical. For more information on eco-friendly liquid products contact Envirosafe Solutions’ on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.adelaidenow.com.au/resource-boom-will-stretch-state-to-limit/story-e6frea6u-1226238647705

http://www.sacome.org.au/images/stories/Mining_Lobby_says_1010_a_great_day_for_SA.pdf

Perth has unveiled a plan to return up to 30 per cent of its treated wastewater to underground aquifers. The initiative highlights the importance of using environmental cleaning products instead of pouring dangerous chemicals down the drain.

A $500 million wastewater recycling plan has been released for Perth, aimed at drought-proofing the city.

The eco-friendly initiative will increase the amount of treated wastewater entering the city’s aquifers from six to 30 per cent by 2030.

Wastewater includes treated industrial liquid waste and stormwater. Chemicals including disinfectants and cleaners such as laundry powder found in wastewater and stormwater run-off can contaminate soil and waterways.

Perth’s Water Corporation has unveiled the recycling plan as part of its 50-year ‘Water Forever’ program.

“This new investment will see the Water Corporation transfer more of its groundwater abstraction to the deeper Perth Yarragadee, Leederville and coastal aquifers, which will have a positive impact on some wetlands and lakes,” Water Minister Bill Marmion said.

Water scarcity has become a key concern in Perth, where:

• Winter rainfall has dropped 20 per cent in recent years;
• Dams supplying the city are at just 35 per cent of capacity and inflows have dropped 70 per cent in the past 30 years;

Recycling wastewater is an integral part of the city’s water strategy.

Extreme green strategies – including reduced chemical usage – play a significant role in improving water health.

Environmental cleaning products are becoming increasingly popular as corporate businesses, industrial factories and government bodies look to reduce their environmental footprint.

WA environment group Conservation Council has identified gas fracking, inefficient new homes and heavy water using industries as the major threats to Perth’s water security.

“The Water Corporation’s plan to drought-proof Perth sounds good, but it cannot be taken seriously when the government is failing to act on these major threats to Perth’s water future which are out of the Water Corporations control,” Piers Verstegen said.

“The Corporation’s plan will rely heavily on deep underground aquifers for Perth’s future water supply; however these water sources are under immediate threat from the toxic gas fracking industry.”

Perth-based environment cleaning products supplier Envirosafe Solutions has worked with industries including mining and manufacturing to improve environmental outcomes by reducing chemical reliance.

“When you pour something down the sink or drain it doesn’t just disappear,” director Murray Simon said.

“Choosing products that are non-toxic and biodegradable is a small step that can make a big difference to the environment, especially when we are treating wastewater and returning it to our aquifers.”

For more information on safe, non-toxic disinfectants, mineral deposit remover, glass cleaner and other eco-friendly liquid products contact Envirosafe Solutions’ on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.perthnow.com.au/news/special-features/wasterwater-recycling-boost-in-drought-plan/story-e6frg19l-1226208275771

Extreme weather has forced one Northern Territory gold mine operator to flush acidic water from a holding pond into a nearby river. It’s just one example of the difficulties facing the mining sector when it comes to eco- management, which can be improved through the use of environmentally friendly liquids.

From floods to train derailments, the potential for environmental fallouts from mining has been highlighted in the Top End recently.

Heavy flooding in the Katherine region forced mining company Vista Gold to release acidic water from a retention pond at its Mount Todd gold mine in late December.

The Northern Territory Department of Resources has been monitoring the overflow into Edith River, which a Vista Gold spokesperson said was an appropriate measure in light of heavy rains from ex-Tropical Cyclone Grant.

The company said the flush was in line with government licensing requirements. Wastewater management is critical for the gold mining industry’s credentials as environmentally-friendly. Liquid waste from mining processes (known as tailings) poses one of the greatest eco-friendly challenges for the sector. Tailings can leach acid into soils and waterways.

The use of environmental cleaning products low in phosphates and toxic chemicals further reduces the risk of contamination and improves worker safety.

Dust mitigation is another critical issue which can be tackled through filters and spraying eco-friendly industry liquid dust suppressors.

Train derailment

A train derailment along the Adelaide-to-Darwin line prompted more environmental concerns for the Edith River in the same week as the Mount Todd retention pond flush.

As much as 1200 tonnes of copper concentrate was reported to have spilled into the Edith River after a derailment which resulted in an investigation by authorities.

The mining industry has taken environmental management more seriously in recent decades and measures such as dust and waste water management has become a growing concern.

Switching to eco-friendly liquid products has improved environmental accountability and reduced workplace health and safety hazards.

Perth-based eco-friendly industrial liquids supplier Envirosafe Solutions has been leading the challenge to reduce reliance on toxic chemicals.

Its Extreme Green range has been developed with the mining industry in mind and includes dust suppressors, workshop products such as rust removers and coolants and laundry and kitchen cleaners.

Floods and rail disasters highlight the risks inherent in mining processes and products. Switching to eco-friendly industrial liquids is one step toward more eco-friendly practices. For more information contact Envirosafe Solutions’ on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-01-02/overflows-continue-at-top-end-gold-mine/3754942?section=nt

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/mining-energy/oz-minerals-insurance-claim-for-derailment-loss-may-face-complication-over-pollution/story-e6frg9df-1226234407238

Europe’s carbon tax scheme has hit strong turbulence, with countries including the US, China and Australia opposing the measures. Today we look at how simple, affordable measures including the use of environmental cleaning products, can produce a more sustainable aviation industry

Qantas has opposed a new carbon tax on airlines introduced by European Union as part of its Emissions Trading Scheme.

The airline has said its passengers would now face carbon taxes in Australia, Europe and New Zealand. The cost of the European carbon charge will add a $5 levy to the cost of a one-way fare to Europe. Australia’s carbon tax will be offset through a $3.50 levy on domestic fares.

The Federal Government has also opposed the EU carbon tax and instead called for a global tax to be levied through the International Civil Aviation Organisation.

The United States and China continue to oppose the tax, with China banning its national carriers from complying.

Eco-friendly industry

Eco-friendly carbon tax schemes levied on fuel, gas and coal are aimed at promoting environmental change among heavy polluters.

Australia’s aviation industry has already adopted sustainable measures, including the investigation of new technologies such as biofuels made from plant matter and best-practice flights that reduce emissions.

Research has shown that reducing air-time by even a few minutes can produce significant fuel savings.

Small changes on the ground such as choosing eco-friendly industrial liquids can also reduce environmental impacts. Environmental cleaning products can also boost eco-friendly credentials and improve health outcomes for staff.

Perth-based Envirosafe Solutions is a leading supplier of eco-friendly liquid products which are not only safe for the environment, but for aircraft. Corrosive cleaners can damage a plane’s bodywork over time and create safety risks.

Insect and Tar Remover

The Envirosafe range includes its popular Extreme Green Insect and Tar Remover which safely and effectively removes debris from windscreens, lights and paintwork. It is safe to use on all paint, plastic and rubber components when used as directed.

Kitchen cleaners

The Extreme Green kitchen range is an ideal choice for airports and includes non-caustic, non-foaming dishwasher powder which is safe for septic systems.

Difficult bathroom stains, such as shower scum, can be easily tackled with the Extreme Green GelCleanSanitiser, which penetrates quickly to clean away unsightly and unsanitary stains without harsh acids or petro-solvents.

Initiatives such as carbon tax schemes demonstrate a commitment to reducing greenhouse emissions but have financial impacts on heavy polluting industries and consumers. Simple measures such as switching to eco-friendly industrial liquids and cleaning products offer an affordable way to boost environmental credentials while creating a more eco-friendly legacy. For more information on environmental solutions for the aviation industry, contact Envirosafe Solutions’ on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/business/eu-carbon-tax-turbulence-hits-qantas/story-fn7j19iv-1226238582629

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/aviation/carbon-fuel-spur-qantas-airfare-hikes/story-e6frg95x-1226261271134

http://www.google.com/hostednews/afp/article/ALeqM5jxhgu4TYLiAzmg8-7kX5pMAiWBKw?docId=CNG.7e2f54df1b9c336e0daa5210d53c3682.6a1

http://www.envirosafesolutions.com.au/productinnerpage.php?cat=29&product=1

Alternative fuel is here to stay. Over time, we have come to think of bio fuel and bio diesel as not only a possible concept, but a probable one. While it would be better if we were already on cheap, low-cost, sustainable fuel right now in its entirety, we have definitely come a long way from the petroleum based fuels of yesterday. Every day, we get closer to this hopeful solution. Sometimes, looking at our past progress brings new hope for the future. Let’s look at some ways in which alternative fuel has advanced in the past.

Advances in Ethanol

In 1908, Ford Motor Company used an ethanol based fuel in its very first Model T. In 1920, Standard Oil used ethanol in its gasoline to help with engine knocking. In the 1980’s, ethanol was part of ETBE, which was an oxygenate added to gasoline. By 2006, new blends of petroleum based fuels using ethanol were reported as being harmful to auto and marine engines.

Advances in Petroleum

The mid 1850’s found kerosene in widespread use in lamps. Petroleum was found to be lighter and more easily compressed than coal, and its use was found to be less dangerous than working with coal fire and combustion. While coal was used for many decades after that, for both fuel and heat, oil became the new standard, and coal began being weaned out, much like petroleum is being weaned out today, due to ecological concerns.

Advances in Gas

Natural gas consists primarily of methane and the concentrations of this are found to be different in different areas, and includes other gases, such as nitrogen, helium, hydrogen, carbon monoxide (poisonous), and occasionally hydrogen sulfide. Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is often used in areas where natural gas is not available, and can be maintained under relatively low pressure. Both natural gas and LPG are used as fuel, in heating, and sometimes for other, smaller uses. However, they are both dangerous to use improperly because they are highly flammable and poisonous to breathe, so they must contained properly or humans could die from suffocation.

Energy Development over Time

Energy has been acquired and used over time in many different ways and new changes and advances in different types of fuel have been refined in the past several decades. Unfortunately, the same amount of time may be required to find alternative fuel sources which are non-petroleum based and which are healthy for the earth and for plant and animal life on the earth.

Envirosafe Solutions is happily doing our part in alternative chemicals, of both household and industrial strength, by offering a variety of sanitizers, laundry products, kitchen products, degreasers and rust removers which are all eco friendly. Call us today: (+61) 1300 88 90 70.

http://www.fuel-testers.com/ethanol_fuel_history.html

http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ship/systems/fuel-oil-history.htm

http://www.hearth.com/econtent/index.php/articles/history_and_nature_of_fuel_gases

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fuel_cell

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Energy_development

A 30 per cent mining tax is set for July this year after being passed through the lower house on November 23. The controversial legislation was given the green light after the Government made agreements with key independents to secure its passage. Debate over the tax remains extreme. Greens MPs want it broadened before passing it through the Senate.

A tax on iron ore and coal mining profits has been predicted to raise $7.7 billion in its first two years.

The new revenue stream was approved in November following deals struck between the Government, key independents and the Greens.

The tax threshold was increased to $75 million (up from $50 million) to secure the support of Andrew Wilkie. The Government has committed $200 million toward scientific research into coal seam gas mining impacts on groundwater and farming in a compromise to MPs Rob Oakeshott and Tony Windsor. NSW and Queensland communities are engaged in a heated debate over the impact of the controversial gas mining process.

Concerns centre over the mining sector’s claims that CSG process is eco-friendly. Liquid products from hydraulic fracturing (fracking) and fears of groundwater contamination have prompted a moratorium on the technique in NSW.

Mining response

The mining tax has been designed to tap into the booming mining industry and was negotiated with global mining giants BHP Billiton, Rio Tinto and Xstrata in 2010.

The Association of Mining and Exploration Companies has pushed for the tax to be based on a production threshold instead of a profit threshold.

“Iron ore prices are not going to stay at high levels forever, they have already fallen quite a lot and the profitability levels of companies are all different,” chief executive Simon Bennison has said.

The mining tax at a glance

• The Mining Resources Rent Tax (MRRT) will start on July 1, 2012;
• The tax rate will be 30 per cent, which will be phased in when profits reach $75 million and paid in full at $125 million;
• Between 20-30 companies will pay the full rate;
• The tax is estimated to raise $7.7 billion in its first two years;

The Greens have pushed for the tax to be lifted to 40 per cent and to be applied to uranium and gold mines. The bill will need Greens support to pass through the Upper House in early 2012.

Critics of the tax claim it favours big miners over small and medium sized operators and that the provision to offset future state royalty increases against the tax will impact budget figures.

Green revolution proponents have pushed for the mining tax to fund better environmental outcomes.

The wealth generated by Australia’s non-renewable resources should be used to safeguard the future for everyone, which requires a genuine commitment to be environmentally-friendly. Liquid waste from mining sites, greenhouse gas emissions and land degradation are key challenges for this fossil-fuel dependent industry.

Environmental cleaning products suppliers Envirosafe Solution has tailored its products to help mine sites become more eco-friendly. Industrial liquids including solvent-free degreaser, rubber remover and soil-wetta/dust suppressor are part of its Extreme Green range. For more information on environmentally safe, high-performance cleaning solutions contact Envirosafe Solutions’ on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.smh.com.au/environment/labor-set-to-clinch-mining-tax-20111121-1nr0i.html

http://www.climatespectator.com.au/news/federal-govt-wins-crucial-support-mining-tax

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/mining-energy/canberra-will-struggle-to-raise-111bn-from-impost/story-e6frg9df-1226202983591

http://www.miningaustralia.com.au/news/MRRT–Too-taxing

It’s easy to take for granted, but clean drinking water is essential. Warnings of groundwater pollution from non-eco-friendly industrial liquids are alarming for residents living in affected areas. A damning US report has this month linked coal seam gas mining to groundwater contamination.

The US Environmental Protection Agency has found a likely link between groundwater pollution and chemicals used in fracking.

It announced in December that compounds associated with hydraulic fracturing (fracking) – the process of forcing water, sand and chemicals deep underground to release methane – had contaminated groundwater in Wyoming.

Residents in Pavillion in the mid-western US state claim their water wells ‘reek of chemicals’.

The announcement has been welcomed by green revolution proponents and strengthens claims by environmentalists that coal seam gas mining was not environmentally friendly. A liquid cocktail containing chemical compounds is used to extract gas during the controversial mining process.

While the US EPA’s findings were not conclusive they have put a strong dent in the arguments that the depth of the fracking process would keep contaminants separate from drinking water supplies.

Gas and oil mining operations are not the only threat to the safety of groundwater plaguing the environment. Cleaning products and industrial chemicals (such as radiator cleaner, rubber removers and other non-eco-friendly liquid products) continue to cause contamination concerns across the country.

Adelaide car plant

Residents living near a major car manufacturing plant in Adelaide’s northern suburbs were advised this year not to draw water from the underground aquifer. The EPA said chemicals from the Holden factory had contaminated groundwater about 20 metres below the surface.

The car giant said it believed chemicals involved in manufacturing and non-environmental cleaning products were likely to have caused the contamination. Both Holden and the EPA agreed it was likely the contamination was a result of past practices prior to 1995.

Perth landfill site

Landfill chemicals contaminated groundwater into two Perth suburbs near the city’s Mirrabooka dump.

Testing of bore water near the site found it had been contaminated by arsenic and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Residents were warned not to use bore water for drinking, cooking or to fill swimming pools.

US findings that chemical compounds used in fracking are likely to have contaminated groundwater will send an ominous warning to Queensland and NSW communities affected by the gas mining process. It’s a reminder of the threats posed by toxic chemicals.

Perth-based environmental cleaning products company Envirosafe Solutions remains committed to finding non-toxic alternatives for the mining and industrial sectors. Its Extreme Green range of products is designed to biodegrade to reduce soil and water contamination. For more information contact Envirosafe Solutions’ on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/story/2011/12/08/bc-fracking-groundwater-epa.html

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-11-11/holden-groundwater-bowden-remediation/3659548

http://www.perthnow.com.au/news/special-features/investigators-probe-spread-of-contaminated-water-in-dianella-and-mirrabooka/story-e6frg19l-1225854629816

Are you aware of the health dangers of persistent toxic exposure? The cleaning products you use in your home or office can literally be poisonous. They can cause health problems when ingested, when inhaled, and even if they come into contact with your skin. Some of the cleaning products being used may be the most toxic items in your house or office. The solution to protecting your family and workers is switching to green cleaners.

Dangerous Cleaners

Common cleaning products used to clean toilets, ovens, and drains are considered the most dangerous and the most toxic products used regularly. For example, standard drain cleaners contain corrosives that can result in burns when they come into contact with your skin, are swallowed, or even inhaled. Common complaints from people using these products are breathing problems, burning eyes and skin irritation.

Ammonia and products with chlorine bleach also pose severe health hazards. People who have respiratory problems, asthma, or heart problems are at high risk for health problems from these chemicals. In addition, many standard cleaning products contain irritating fragrances. These fragrances can add to health problems and cause allergic reactions.

Chronic health care problems can also result from the use of standard cleaners. Products containing diethanolamine and triethanolamine have been shown to correspond to increased risks of cancer and hormone imbalance. Butyl cellosolve is an extremely dangerous neurotoxin that is also in some all-purpose cleaners. The problem with scientific research is that it takes years before permanent damage to the human body can be statistically verified through product use.

The Environment

The danger of toxic chemicals found in household and office cleaners does not stop once the product is used. These chemical often seep into the environment and cause further dangers to your health and the health of community members and the natural environment.

While some toxic chemicals, when washed down your drain, may break down, others do not. These toxins are treated at water plants and eventually flow into our waterways. When this occurs the fish and wildlife are threatened.

Phosphates are a problem in many waterways. Found in dish detergents and other products, phosphates increase algae growth in water. The excessive algae growth lowers oxygen level which results in killing fish and other organisms.

Solving the Problem

Homeowners and businesses may think commercial cleaners work better. However, the opposite is true according to author and cleaning expert Shannon Lush. She recently reported in an interview that green cleaners are better than you may think.

“They (green cleaners) usually work better than what you buy in a supermarket”.[1] She goes on to state that while we may desire the smell of chlorine and fragrances to make us feel our homes (and offices) are clean, in reality these smells mean the opposite. Residual smells after cleaning mean there is residue left behind.

Unfortunately, some reports indicate that Australia generates the most pollution of any developed country.[2] That’s why the government is undertaking green measures to reduce the amount of pollution in Australia. However, the program can only be successful if each person and each business does their part.

Making a Change

You can make the switch to green cleaning and improve the health of your family and staff. Green cleaners are non-toxic and good for the environment. How do you know if a cleaning product is green and safe?

First, read the labels on all products. Green products that are safe will not contain toxins such as ammonia and chlorine bleach. Stay away from products with warnings for burning, skin reactions, and harmful vapours on the label.

Choose cleaning products that are biodegradable. Biodegradable products break down safely in the environment. These products do not contain phosphates, solvents, or other toxins. Many biodegradable cleaning products are plant based.

Green cleaning products will improve your health and your environment. The health dangers of persistent toxic exposure are real and dangerous. It’s easy to ignore the dangers because exposure to dangerous chemicals doesn’t lead to immediate health issues in many cases. It takes long-term exposure before the full consequences to human health are known.

Envirosafe Solutions (www.evss.com.au) offers a full line of environmentally safe products for home and office. Employers serious about developing work safe environments must consider the chemicals used by workers as well as the air quality.

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References

[1] Cleaning with Toxins Isn’t Really Cleaning. (n.d.). Retrieved from Sydney Morning Herald: http://www.smh.com.au/news/environment/cleaning-with-toxins-isnt-really-cleaning/2007/08/13/1186857429027.html

[2] Reduce Your Carbon Footprint. (n.d.). Retrieved from Australian Government Department of Climate Change and Energy Effeciency: http://www.climatechange.gov.au/en/what-you-can-do/individual/carbon-footprint.aspx