Anti-bacterial hand wash Archives - Page 16 of 19 - Envirosafe Solutions: Eco Friendly Liquid Products, Extreme Green, Environmental Cleaning Products

July 28, 2011June 29, 2011

Eco-tourism catching on in mainstream hotels, parks

Accommodation providers offering everything from cabins nestled in woodland settings to urban backpacker hostels have caught onto the eco-tourism movement. The green revolution has captured the attention of travellers and the tourism industry, driving environmentally sustainable practices, including reduced energy consumption and the use of environmental cleaning products. Today we take a look at the eco-tourism movement.

Thirty years ago Australian eco-tourism was largely the domain of small, nature-based tour operators but the movement has increasingly been embraced by the mainstream.

Walk into any city hotel room and you will notice the change: The small sign posted in the bathroom encouraging guests to refrain from using a daily linen service; the carefully selected bottle of organic, sulphate-free shampoo in the shower; the unlabelled, refillable bottle of dishwashing liquid under the sink; the nearby paper recycling bin.

Accommodation venues have also started listing energy reducing initiatives and other green credentials – including the use of eco-friendly liquid products – in their brochures and guest information folders.

For every cynical guest discounting these changes as simple cost-cutting, many more are embracing the measures as a sign operators care for the health and future of its guests and the environment.

Evaluating the authenticity of green assertions can be difficult as terms such as green and eco-friendly can be bandied without independent scrutiny.

In Australia there are several eco-certification schemes in place including:

Ecotourism Australia, a respected eco-certification organisation for nature-based operators but less suited to city accommodation properties;
Green STAR Ratings – Most travellers will be familiar with STAR ratings and the Eco-Friendly STAR logo identifies venues which have undertaken energy efficiency, waste management, water minimisation and guest education;
EarthCheck (Green Globe) is an international green credential certification body which allows operators to measure their resource use and waste outputs;
Some operators self-evaluate their green credentials outside of official accreditation schemes, motivated by the opportunity to reduce their environmental footprint.

Some of the simple measures being implemented by hotels, parks and hostels in rural and metropolitan settings include linen reuse programs, low-flow showerheads, low-flow toilets, sensor lights and the use of refillable guest products such as shampoo or laundry powder.

Easily-accessible bins for recyclable products such as papers and milk and juice cartons have become widely available at caravan parks and hotels.

Environmental cleaning products reduce water and soil contamination. Biodegradable, low-toxic products are available to replace most chemical cleaners.

Perth-based Envirosafe Solutions supplies its Extreme Green range of eco-friendly industrial liquids to accommodation providers across Australia.

Director Murray Simon said eco products not only delivered results comparable to harsh cleaners but were economical and sustainable. He added that efforts to reduce environmental impacts helped hospitality operators connect with their guests.

“Discerning travellers are increasingly seeking out green credentials when choosing accommodation venues – they would rather spend their money at environmentally-responsible enterprises.”

Envirosafe Solutions’ environmental cleaning product range includes dishwashing liquid, glass cleaner, gentle, triclosan-free anti-bacterial handwash and biodegradable, low-phosphate laundry powder.

As Australian eco-tourism moves beyond nature-based operators to mainstream accommodation providers, the use of environmentally sustainable practices and products – including eco-friendly industrial liquids – has been embraced. For more information on eco-friendly products tailored to the hospitality industry phone 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.austconserv.com/topics/travel-and-transportation/ecohotel-wins-australia-s-best-eco-friendly-holidays.html

http://www.globalstewards.org/hotel.htm

http://www.ecohotel.com.au/links.html

July 27, 2011June 29, 2011

Biofuels could fuel 30% of nation’s transport needs: CSIRO

The demand for more sustainable energy has led to the release of hybrid cars and low emission vehicles. Yet new research into biofuel production promises a more widespread solution to our reliance on finite fossil fuel resources. As the world churns through its crude oil resources, questions of fuel security and sustainability become more pressing. Research by Australia’s CSIRO is looking to the future of extreme green fuels.

An $8.3 million project has been launched to develop new biofuels that could potentially provide up to 30 percent of Australia’s future transport needs.

The CSIRO Energy Transformed Cluster on Biofuels was launched in Canberra in March 2011. Its aims include developing new, economically viable processes for producing fuels from plant and algal matter.

It has the potential to further propel an emerging green revolution in the transport sector, which produces the third highest greenhouse gas emissions in Australia behind stationary electricity production and agriculture.

As the transport industry struggles with increasing fuel costs and scrutiny over its environmental footprint, demand for new technologies are expanding beyond existing fuel conditioners and treatments. These include the emission-reducing Extreme Green Diesel Bug Killer (one of the environmental cleaning products available from leading Australian eco product supplier Envirosafe Solutions).

The way forward

CSIRO Energy Transformed Flagship director Dr Alex Wonhas said not only would sustainable biofuels reduce transport emissions and secure future energy supplies, they would also create new industries.

“Second-generation biofuels that are produced from agricultural waste could potentially be a cost competitive, low-carbon fuel that will keep our cars on the road and planes in the sky. As oil supplies decline and petrol prices soar, alternatives such as biofuels could become economically very attractive.”

CSIRO modelling has found that while hybrid vehicles have become available fully electric vehicles remain a distant possibility, meaning the world will continue to rely on liquid or gas fuels for the next 10 to 40 years.

Australia’s declining oil reserves and high fuel consumption means its sectors are vulnerable to rising petrol and diesel prices.

Producing biofuel

Research into second generation biofuels has been concentrated on the following energy sources:

Biomass, which is derived from plant material including forestry, newspaper and agricultural waste. A sustainable ethanol can be produced from lignocelluloses, a biomass derived from sugar cane or sawmill by-products;
Algae, which offers potential to produce biodiesel more cost-effectively and with less greenhouse gas emissions than fossil based fuel.

Research into cost-effective, extreme green sustainable biofuels offers exciting possibilities. These include the potential to reduce the environmental footprint of the road transport and aviation sector, while producing fuel security amid heavy consumption of finite fossil fuel supplies. Cost-effective production remains a key focus.

Supporting this green revolution emerging within the transport and aviation sectors has been a priority for Envirosafe Solutions. Its range of eco-friendly liquid products not only offers less toxic cleaning and maintenance solutions for these industries, they also include fuel conditioners and treatments which produce cleaner emissions. For more information Diesel Bug Killer and other eco-friendly industrial liquids tailored phone 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.csiro.au/news/Biofuels-researchers-to-turn-waste-into-wealth.html

July 26, 2011June 29, 2011

Phosphates come out of the wash for Aussie households

A successful campaign against phosphate-based laundry detergents has highlighted the benefits of using environmental cleaning products. Australia has been lagging behind countries such as the United States, which banned phosphates in household laundry cleaners in 1993 amid concerns over impacts on waterways and wildlife. Australian supermarkets followed suit in April, 2011.

Domestic laundry products containing phosphates will be phased out in Australia following a campaign highlighting its environmental impact on waterways.

Phosphates are widely used in laundry products as a water softener and to remove dirt but have been identified as a cause of blue-green algae in rivers. Algal blooms strip oxygen from waterways, killing fish and plant life.

One of the worst cases of algal bloom was along a 1000km stretch of the Barwon-Darling River in NSW in 1991. The ‘pea soup’ bloom killed fish, sheep and cattle and, according to the CSIRO, was caused by low river-flow and resulting high concentrations of nutrients, including phosphorous. Cleaning products and fertilisers contribute to phosphate levels.

Phosphates have been banned in household laundry products in the US since the 1990s as part of a consumer-led push for environmental cleaning products. The European Union introduced regulations in 2004 with the aim of phasing-out phosphate-based products.

Supermarket chain Aldi was the first to answer the Australian phosphate-free charge, announcing in April that by 2013 its shelves would only stock phosphate-free laundry products. Coles and Woolworths have followed suit, promising to remove phosphates from its own home brand laundry products.

The moves have been welcomed by environmental advocacy group Do Something, which launched the national ban-phosphate campaign in October 2010, endorsing instead the use of environmental cleaning products.

Founder and 2010 Australian of the Year John Dee welcomed the action by the supermarkets and applauded the announcement by Unilever – the makers of major supermarket laundry brands – that its products would no longer contain phosphates.

The influential environmental campaigner said that Australians did 1.9 billion laundry washes a year and that switching to phosphate-free environmental cleaning products would make a big difference.

“If everyone was to use the no-phosphate alternatives it would reduce greenhouse emissions by about 85,000 tonnes, which is the equivalent of taking 33,000 cars off the road.”

Mr Dee said that 308 million Americans had been washing clothes with phosphate-free laundry powders. “If it works over there, there is absolutely no reason why it won’t here.”

Eco-friendly liquid products offer a sustainable substitute to traditional cleaners, which often contain harsh solvents. Examples of toxic solvents include N-Methyl Pyrrolidone (NMP), Tolene and Trichloroethylene (TCE), which have been linked to health problems including skin conditions, asthma, organ failure and foetal defects. Many traditional cleaning products are also high in phosphates and acids.

Envirosafe Solutions is a leading Australian environmental cleaning products company. It supplies industry, government and corporate sectors with eco-friendly cleaning alternatives. Its industrial-strength laundry formulas – Extreme Green Hard Water Laundry Liquid or Powder – are low in phosphates and fully biodegradable. Its fabric conditioner does not contain phosphate.

The move by major Australian supermarkets to remove phosphate-based laundry products from their shelves proves what Envirosafe Solutions and its customers have known for decades – environmental cleaning products can effectively replace toxic cleaners. For more information on laundry products or other sustainable cleaning alternatives, contact Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://dosomething.net.au/issues.aspx

http://www.triplepundit.com/2010/03/toxies-awards-chemicals/

http://www.laundry-alternative.com/detergentsinfo.htm

July 25, 2011June 29, 2011

Carbon neutral flights won’t cost the earth

Cut-price fares have made air travel available to more Australian passengers but paying a little extra may be the solution to a more sustainable future. Carbon neutral flights offset emissions and are offered by most Australian airlines as part of the Federal Government’s National Carbon Offset Standard. This extreme green program has helped the flying public reduce the environmental cost of air travel.

Paying more for your next air fare may not be as bad as it sounds.

Carbon offset flights give passengers the option of flying carbon neutral by paying an additional cost on top of their ticket price to offset flight emissions.

Airlines pay the funds into carbon offset programs certified by the Federal Government’s NCOS Carbon Neutral initiative, a voluntary scheme allowing Australian businesses to calculate, minimise and offset greenhouse gas emissions.

Carbon neutral flights are being offered by airlines as part of a shift toward the green revolution by the aviation sector. This heavy emitting industry has been moving toward more sustainable practice, including production of biofuels and the use of eco-friendly industrial liquids such as the Extreme Green Insect and Tar Remover offered by Perth-based Envirosafe Solutions.

Making a difference

The NCOS Carbon Neutral initiative was established by the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency and is administered by the Australian Carbon Trust.

Trust CEO said carbon neutral flights were about giving the flying public ‘a very real and convenient way to take action on climate change at an individual level’.

Qantas chief executive Rob Kella said the airline’s carbon offset scheme was part of its overall environment strategy.

“(Since 2007) all contributions received have gone towards purchasing carbon offsets generated by accredited abatement projects. The program has offset over 850,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions to date. This is the equivalent of taking around 200,000 cars off the road for a year.”

Reducing airline emissions

Staying grounded is best for the environment but avoiding flying completely is not always practical. Participating in a carbon offset program, such as those offered through airlines or through independent carbon offset providers, is the next best step.

An investigation by the Stockholm Environment Institute has found the following variables effect fuel emissions and should be considered when calculating carbon offsets:

Aircraft technology, including weight reduction, aerodynamics and engine design;
Flight distance – longer routes burn more fuel;
Seat occupancy and seat class;
Radiative Forcing Index (RFI), which in the context of airline emissions calculation refers to the extra warming effects that occur as a result of the emissions occurring in the air.

Carbon offset programs, aircraft technology, the development of biofuels and the use of sustainable products such as eco-friendly industrial liquids are among the initiatives allowing the aviation sector to support the green revolution.

Australian environmental cleaning products suppliers Envirosafe Solution recognises the value of carbon offset programs and reduces its own corporate environmental footprint by donating to Carbon Neutral. It Extreme Green range caters to the aviation industry and offers a low-toxic, sustainable option to traditional commercial cleaners. For more information on Insect & Tar Remover and other eco-friendly industrial liquids phone 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.carbonoffsetguide.com.au/aviation_offsets

http://australianaviation.com.au/2011/03/qantas-jetstar-achieve-carbon-neutral-certification/

July 22, 2011June 29, 2011

Watertight? The Murray-Darling Plan

The Murray –Darling is under threat. Water continues as a hot topic in Australia and around the globe. It is no longer considered an unlimited natural resource – a fluid manna from the Gods– and in this age of environmental concern and global warming, it has been recontextualised as a precious commodity of limited supply that requires thought, planning and government intervention in relation to equitable water management.

In 2010 The Murray darling Basin authority released a landmark plan in an effort to secure the long-term health of the iconic Murray-Darling river system. The plan is in fact the first phase of a 3 tiered approach aimed at addressing the many and varied issues that have plagued the system for decades.

The Murray darling itself covers over 1 million sq kilometres which equates to 14 % of Australia’s total landmass. It reaches across the majority of states and also includes the nation’s most significant food production region which is heavily dependent upon irrigation for its ongoing survival.

Problems addressed?

While recent rains in early 2011 helped to ease the drought and have flushed parts of the Murray-Darling system, ongoing concerns remain, particularly regarding water allocation and state facilitation and allowance of water removal to support farming, agriculture and other concerns along the system.[1] The plan had hoped to recover between 3,000-4,000 gigalitres of water back to the environment from the allocations, but this has been revised (May 2011) to 2,000 gigalitres after pressure from agriculture groups.

Amanda Young, from Environment Victoria has said the reduction will mean there will not be enough returned water to help with improvement and maintenance of the system’s health. “We’re very concerned,” she said, “because we do not believe that amount will restore economic connectivity of these very, very important sites. The Act clearly states the plan must secure the ongoing future health of the RAMSAR-listed wetland sites.”[2]

RAMSAR listed sites are those that are covered by the RAMSAR Convention on Wetlands – “an intergovernmental treaty that provides the framework for national action and international cooperation for the conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources.”[3] Wetlands in the Murray Darling Basin are listed in the convention.

In a recent twist, (June 21 2011) irrigators along the system called for the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Board to be sacked because of new MIB contracts that re-allocate water away from the irrigators and back to the board. Scientists from the high profile Wentworth Group, including Professor Tim Flannery have also walked away from discussions concerning the Murray Darling Plan because of the 1,000 gigalitre water revision that Environment Victoria also objected to. Professor Tim Stubbs from the Wentworth Group said that the worse-case scenario is “that in 6 years time when we have another drought we’ll be in the same situation as we are no, and we’ll be seeing the same impacts as we have seen in the recent drought. We will have spent $10 billion. I don’t think it is a good outcome for anyone.”[4]

Time will tell with regards to the final Murray-Darling Basin Plan and outcome later in 2011. In the meantime, Envirosafe Solutions supports the need for prudent and responsible research into and management of what has become one of the globe’s most precious resources. Watertight? We will see….

Telephone Envirosafe solutions for more information on their environmentally friendly products and range. Envirosafe Solutions 1300 889070

[1] http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/10/06/3030629.htm

[2] http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2011/05/27/3228944.htm

[3] http://www.ramsar.org/cda/en/ramsar-home/main/ramsar/1_4000_0_

[4] http://www.abc.net.au/7.30/content/2011/s3224798.htm

July 21, 2011June 29, 2011

UNEP – a global environmental strategy

Over the past few months Envirosafe Solutions has been keeping a watchful eye on the United Nations Environment Programme,(UNEP) which aims to “provide leadership and encourage partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing and enabling nations and peoples to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.”[1] UNEP incorporates a number of agencies, advisory groups and partnerships and seeks to combine these in an accessible and proactive manner that serves the global environment and population. UNEP states that its core “objective is to serve as an authoritative advocate for the global environment dimension of sustainable development within the UN system.”[2]

In 2010, UNEP’s annual report catalogued and announced the beginnings of a new transformative and changing direction. This Medium Term Strategy, as it is known embraces the period 2010-2013 and outlines significant strategic planning approaches in 6 key areas. These are:

Climate change
Disasters and conflict
Ecosystem management
Environmental governance
Harmful substances and hazardous waste
Resource efficiency
Sustainable consumption and production

The report also focused on these issues against a backdrop of increasing natural disasters and tumultuous weather patterns which included the Haiti earthquake. It also sought to develop an advisory role for nations keen to evolve towards greener and more sustainable economies.

Harmful Substances

The issue of harmful substances is a fact of everyday modern life, and today, there are over 100,000 different substances in use. These play a vital role in industry, business, production and the modern world, and yet mitigating their deleterious effects is essential given the current environmental issues facing mankind. UNEP has four specific goals that are central to its harmful substances management approach:

Scientific assessments – these are conducted globally by UNEP
Legal instruments – assisting governments to “develop appropriate policy and control systems for harmful substances
National implementation – methodologies, tools, technical aid to help countries activate, finance and design harmful substance/hazardous waste strategies
Monitoring and evaluation – promotion of best practice to help countries monitor and report on their national programme.

The work implemented by UNEP on the global level can only be successful with the proactive cooperation of organisations that are placing environmental change at the forefront of their business schemes and methods.

Many of these key areas are incorporated into the Envirosafe Solutions business model and product approach. Its eco-friendly liquid products and its Extreme Green range are designed and manufactured with the reduction of harmful substances and hazardous waste, climate change and sustainable consumption and production in mind. This green model has been well considered and mapped, and Envirosafe Solutions is proud of its adherence to these issues. For more information on their range of products call 1300 889070 .

[1] http:www.unep.org/Documents.Multilingual/Default.asp?DocumentID=43

[2] http://www.unep.org/publications/contents/pub_details_search.asp?ID=4186

July 20, 2011June 29, 2011

The Humble Bicycle

Envirosafe Solutions encourages individuals within the community to contribute to a greener and healthier environment. You too can make a difference, and it all starts with the humble bicycle.

You want to make a difference…but you don’t know how. You often think you would like to reduce your own carbon footprint…but you are so busy you don’t have time to really do so. You look at your children in the evening and you wonder what the future will hold for them on their 30th or 40^th or 50^th birthday. What will the planet be like then? How will they live? How will global warming affect their daily life? What will they eat and drink and do?

It is possible to make a change and make a difference. And it starts with the implementation of a few small changes in daily life. Simply go out to the garage, dust off that old two wheeler and the helmet hanging on the hook. A bit of oil, a bit of adjusting, pump up a tire or two….

And away you go….

One of the easiest and most effective ways we can reduce our own carbon footprint is to replace motoring with cycling. It does not have to be an everyday all day replacement, and it does not mean one abandons the family car forever. But here and there, it is possible to utilize two wheeler transport and therefore reduce your impact on the environment and your own petrol consumption. And it may also help you to get a little fitter.

Sarah Goodyear, reporting from London states that bikes are beginning to take over the streets as a preferred mode of commuter transport. According to 2011 London transportation department figures “there is a huge boom in the number of two-wheeled commuters.” [1] The Times has even reported that “on Cheapside, cycles now make up more than 50% of commuter traffic, according to official data, and account for up to 42%of traffic on Southward Bridge across the Thames. In one Bristol suburb, more than one in four people cycle to work….”[2]

In Australia, a similar momentum is beginning to build but requires further development and planning. The 2009 Cycling Infrastructure for Australian Cities indicates that the Australian Government has sought advice in the past few years on how best to facilitate a modal shift towards cycling as a viable and sustainable means for commuting. Australia still lags behind Europe and the UK regarding two wheeler commuting. But the shift is occurring and our country is now “taking heed of the nations that have successfully increased cycling as a mode share as well as the specific strategies, measurable policies, cross-integration of relevant government agencies that have been implemented in those countries.”[3]

Envirosafe Solutions supports the need for greater infrastructure development to support the shift to commuter cycling as has occurred in Europe and the UK.

Their approach to green lifestyle and green industry is steadfast and authentic.

Phone Envirosafe Solutions for more information on their eco-friendly products on 1300 889070

[1] http://www.grist.org/biking/2011-06-21-in-london-bike-commuters-are-the-majority-in-some-pla-outnumbers

[2] http://thesundaytimes.co.uk/sto/

[3] http://www.infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/publications/files/Cycling_Infrastructure_Background_Paper_16Mar09_WEB.pdf

July 19, 2011June 29, 2011

Rectifying Rust

Rust drastically affects machinery and the workings of many businesses and industries. It is activated and produced when red oxides are formed due to contact with water or air moisture or other strong acids and also some acids. It can also arise when iron and chlorine combine underwater. Most commonly however, it “consists of hydrated iron (lll) oxides andiron-oxide-hydroxide and given sufficient time” these will corrode and flake away, causing damage to your machinery, your structures, and your metal materials.[1]

According to Corrosion Cost – a website dedicated to the economic cost of corrosion, the United States spends $276 billion per annum fighting and dealing with rust and corrosion. Transportation, utilities, production and manufacturing and Government and infrastructure are all impacted with the largest sector – utilities – comprising 34.7% or $47.9 billion of the total outlay.[2]

It is estimated the annual cost in Australia may be around $13 billion according to some sources.[3] The CSIRO also states that the presence of sodium or salt, will greatly exacerbate corrosion and rust, and because Australia is a coastal development country, rust is a feature of life in major cities and towns right around Australia from Sydney to Perth, to Darwin and as far south as Tasmania.

The Dangers of chromates

The mitigation of rust and corrosion in a safe and effective manner has been of increasing concern over the past several years because of awareness of the dangers of chromates. These were often used as protective coaters and surfactants, but are now being phased out because of their toxic and carcinogenic potentials.

The Envirosafe Solutions alternative

Envirosafe Solutions has developed a highly effective and Extreme Green alternative to chromates with its Multi Purpose Lubricant. It is a product that is suitable for many applications and is specifically designed to displace moisture as well as penetrate rusted areas and slow down and impede the spread of corrosion. It is especially effective and suitable in any area where salt is present, such as coastal areas, and the mining and marine industries. It contains “no silicones, no kerosenes and no acid-forming compounds and will not dry out in normal use.”[4]

It has a range of specific and more general benefits such as:

A reduction in maintenance and upkeep expenses
A reduction in downtime due to machine malfunction, servicing or seizure
Extremely safe for operators to apply and use
An easy application – spray or brush onto areas needing treatment
Also suitable as a soaking agent

If your equipment and machinery is unduly affected by rust and corrosion, and you require an effective and sound alternative to the old, be sure to contact Envirosafe Solutions and obtain a list of their rust removing and rust prevention products. Their friendly staff are able to assist with your enquiries. Telephone 1300 889070.

[1] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rust

[2] http://www.corrosioncost.com/home.html

[3] http://www.infospec.com.au/

[4] http://www.envirosafesolutions.com.au/productinnerpage.php?cat=18&product=17

July 18, 2011June 29, 2011

Orbital Junk

Envirosafe Solutions takes a close look at the human refuse impact that extends beyond the planet. Yes…sadly it is true. We have even managed to pollute space with a vast array of objects and particles that are now orbiting the earth!

Humans have not only managed to pollute the earth. We have also successfully managed to rubbish space with a fair amount of debris and space junk. According to The Future of Things website, “The recent collision between a dysfunctional Russian satellite and an American communications satellite illuminates a growing danger that threatens those who dare to venture outside the boundaries of the atmosphere – namely space junk floating above the earth!”[1]

At present, it is estimated there is in the vicinity of over 500,000 pieces of space junk larger than one centimeter are circling the earth in different orbits at speeds ranging from between 20,000 and 30,000 km per hour. And millions more pieces smaller than this size and speeding at phenomenal speeds are also circling.

Neglect is at the centre of the problem. Over many decades, several thousand satellites and spacecraft have been launched with only a small portion of them landing back on Earth or being burned in the atmosphere. Most are in fact discarded and abandoned and are continuing to orbit. Space expeditions have also discarded and cast off equipment, refuse and objects. For example, “astronauts from the MIR space stations threw out over twenty massive garbage bags into space” during their missions, with little thought or concern for the long-term whereabouts or longevity of the space junk.[2] Other lost or discarded objects recorded as space junk even include a lost glove by astronaut Ed White, a camera from the Gemini 10 Mission, a wrench and a toothbrush discarded by Sunita Williams of the STS-116 mission as well as pliers, tool bags and other tools.[3] It’s all floating out there.

CanadianBusiness.com reports that “those pieces of space junk larger than a baseball are floating around the earth and threatening Canadian satellites that provide valuable information. The space junk has even left dents on the International Space Station.”[4] A recent international conference at the Canadian Space Agency focused on the increasing threat with NASA’s Nicholas Johnson (Chief Scientist for Orbital Debris) stating that some of the debris had been circling earth since the 1950’s and that with an increase in the garbage, comes an increased risk of high-velocity collisions which can destroy and damage satellites and spacecraft.

The European Space Agency representative at the conference, Heiner Klincrad, also stated that “two recent collisions in space are a sign of things to come. Satellites will not be able to function at certain altitudes without encountering a certain risk.”[5]

It seems humans are even littering the pace area around the planet, to such an extent we are potentially threatening our own telecommunications and satellite requirements which are dependent upon clean space, in much the same way we require clean air and less litter here on the planet.

Envirosafe Solutions supports a self-responsibility approach to the environment and pollution. It believes individuals, businesses, industries, states and nations can continue to develop eco-friendly practices that serve the planet and our increasingly frequent forays into space. Each one of us can do our bit and “join the green revolution.”

Telephone Envirosafe Solutions for more information on their eco-friendly liquid products on 1300 889070.

[1] http://thefutureofthings.com/column/6513/the-orbital-menace-space-garbage.html

[2] Ibid

[3] http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Space_debris

[4] http://www.canadianbusiness.com/article/30813–space-junk-conference-hears-how-man-made-debris-is-making-a-mess-in-the-cosmos

[5] Ibid

July 15, 2011June 29, 2011

Hand Hygiene

Envirosafe Solutions focuses on Hands First Foaming Hand Sanitiser and the recent World Health Organisation and national handwashing campaigns that have been activated in Australia in the past few years.

What is the single most effective and assured method of preventing the spread of bacteria, germs and illness? It’s certainly not taking copious quantities of expensive vitamins, and it is not hiding away like a Howard Hughes germophobe, unable to engage in life and all it has to offer.

Yes…you guessed it. It is the simple and easy practice of washing our hands.

According to Hand Hygiene Australia, “hand hygiene” is a general terms applying “to the use of solution/soap (non-antimicrobial or antimicrobial) and water, or a waterless antimicrobial agent to the surface of hands. And, in Australia, hand hygiene practices have been universally poor among health care workers because of:

Heavier workloads – the busier one is, the less likely he/she is to wash hands
There is not enough time to wash hands as frequently as is required
Hands do not appear dirty and therefore one assumes there are no bugs”[1]

The World Health Organisation also supports thorough hand washing and has issued two posters to highlight the need for vigilance. It also states that “clean hands protect against infection” and has attempted to “embed hand hygiene promotional activities as a national priority in countries around the world,” of which Australia is one.[2] Its ClearingHandsNet Campaign began in 2007 and gained momentum in 2009 with The World Health Organisation’s Guidelines on Hand Hygiene in Health Care which made the following recommendations to nations:

Make improved hand hygiene a national priority
Support strengthening of infection control capacities
Promote hand hygiene at the community level
Encourage health care settings to use hand hygiene as a quality indicator[3]

Envirosafe Solutions actively supports the WHO program and our own national hand washing campigns, and has developed a quality hand washing liquid product that is alcohol free and non-flammable and non-toxic. Its Hands First liquid handwashing product also contains aloe vera and is fragrance free, making it particularly suitable for those suffering allergies or other sensitivities. It also contains natural ingredients such as grapefruit seed extract and uses Benzalkonium Chloride as its base, which has “long been deemed safe for human use” and has the capacity to kill germs for up to 4 hours after being used.[4]

Envirosafe Solutions Hands First Antibacterial handwash is available in small carry all and counter top quantities (50ml and 200ml respectively) as well as larger quantities of up to 2 litres for sanitiser refills.

Please contact Envirosafe Solutions to order your Hands First antibacterial handwash. Our friendly staff are ready to help you with your order now on 1300 889070.

[1] http://hha.org.au/AboutHandHygiene.aspx

[2] http://www.who.int/gpsc/national_campaigns/background/en/index/html

[3] http://www.who.int/gpsc/national_campaigns/background/en/index/html

[4] http://www.envirosafesolutions.com.au/productinnerpage.php?cat=17&product=60

July 14, 2011July 14, 2011

Coastal Erosion

Envirosafe Solutions considers the natural process of coastal erosion in light of global warming and a subsequent rise in extreme weather patterns and processes. The impact of extreme weather on coastal habitation in Australia is here. What does it really means to specific communities along Australia’s shoreline?

Coastal erosion is nothing new. According to OzCoast, the Australian Government’s online coastal information site, coastal and beach deposits are “dynamic sedimentary systems that experience a natural phasing of erosion and accretion that operate over a range of time intervals.”[1] Here in Australia, we are coast-huggers. We live and play and work predominantly along the coast, and have developed a coastal lifestyle that has largely assumed a kind of stasis when it comes to fixed habitation and coastal development.

Of most concern is the newly considered relationship between coastal development and climate change in relation to global warming. An increase in the frequency of major coastal storms or a rise in relative sea-level can in fact speed up or accelerate coastal erosion, as well as triggering the wearing away of dunes immediately behind a beachfront. Along the coast of Australia at present, various urbanized areas are under threat, with scientists pointing to a distinct relationship between current coastal erosion hotspots and the projected sea level rises and extreme weather associated with a heating planet.[2]

The battle over what to do about coastal erosion has reached crisis point in Byron Bay on the NSW far north coast, with lawyers for a number of Byron Bay residents actively challenging Byron Shire Council so that residents can deal with the erosion issue along The Belongil Spit. Currently The Byron Shire Council has a policy preventing waterfront homeowners from building walls to stop erosion.[3] Residents of the shire however, believe the recent link between increased erosion and global warming gives them more leeway to erect coastal walls that will protect their properties from what they perceive as the fallout from global warming.

According to The Stern Report, Australia is one of the most vulnerable countries in relation to the effects of global warming and “strategies for mitigation and adaptation must be put in effect to safeguard its future.” [4]

Across the continent in Western Australia, particular coastal erosion hotspots that are of concern are located in the local government areas of Busselton, Mandurah, Rockingham and Bunbury and have the highest level of risk, collectively representing over 60% of residential buildings at risk in WA. In Busselton alone, “Between 7,900 and 8,700 residential buildings in the local government area may be affected by sea-level rise by 2100.”[5]

Envirosafe Solutions has long supported the use and adoption of environmentally sound business and domestic practices that can help to slow the increase in greenhouse gas emissions and global warming. Clear, sound and eco-friendly habits and practices on the personal and business level can help to serve and respect our environment. For more information on the Extreme Green range of environmentally friendly liquid products produced by Envirosafe Solutions, call 1300 889070.

[1] www.ozcoasts.org.au

[2] www.environment.nsw.gov.au/coasts/coastalerosionmgmt.htm

[3] http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/05/28/2911712.htm

[4] http://www.aph.gov.au/library/pubs/climatechange/governance/foreign/stern.htm

[5] http://www.climatechange.gov.au/publications/coastline/~/media/publications/coastline/5hsection519WA.ashx

July 13, 2011July 12, 2011

Carbon tax and families – July 2011

How does the carbon tax affect you? How much will it cost you and your family per week? Will you be ok under the new system?

Envirosafe Solutions outlines the impact of the new carbon scheme on Australian families. Will it be financially negligible as the Labor Government will have us believe, or is it, as Tony Abbott describes, a “new socialist tax” that will unfairly target those who cannot afford it?

Since the release of the specifics of the carbon tax on July 10, the media has been frenzied, reporting on the two sides of the debate and the real impact for Australian families. Regional newspapers in Lismore and Toowoomba, as well as other papers in South Australia, Western Australia and Victoria, are decrying the new tax and its impact on the hip pocket of average families.[1]

But one easy way to get the facts is to log onto the Australian government’s new site and use the cleanerenergyfuture household estimator. This will feed back comprehensive data based on the individual circumstances you enter into it. And it will give you the details you need to decide how the new tax will specifically affect you.[2]

Household Estimator[3]

The estimator is a clear guide that helps you to comprehend the affect of the tax on goods and services and the assistance that given to Australian families to cover this added financial burden. Enter your statistics and family household type details into the estimator and you will be given information that most closely fits your circumstances. While these are only indicative, they give you a close profile of what you and your family can expect once the carbon tax takes effect in 2012. The estimator process takes about 5-10 minutes and is possibly the best way for you to obtain information you need about your own family circumstances.

Envirosafe Solutions has compiled some important main details from the package. These may also help you understand the main features of the carbon tax:

Half the money from the tax will go back to assist households.
90% of households will get tax cuts and payments to help
4 million households will get assistance over and above the tax cost to them. (20% extra)
6 million households will be assisted to meet the average cost of the tax.
8 million will get some form of assistance

Case studies

You can also access case study scenarios on the cleanerenergyfuture website that may also help you. The following case studies are profiled to help you:

Two adults both working, with 2 children
Aged pensioners – two elderly pensioners receiving full pension
Self-funded retirees
Disabilities and carers
Student assistance
Low income assistance[4]

Envirosafe Solutions supports the need for a green future. Change and evolution can sadly come at a cost. Righting the wrongs and ignorance of past environmentally harmful practices requires stringent measures now, to ensure safety for the future and for our children.

Support the green revolution. And use products that will help you to reduce your household’s carbon footprint. For more information call Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 889070

[1] http://www.thechronicle.com.au/…/2011/…single-wage-family-not-yet-convinced-of-benefit/

[2] http://www.cleanenergyfuture.gov.au/

[3] https://www.cleanenergyfuture.gov.au/helping-households/household-assistance-estimator/

[4] http://www.cleanerenergyfuture.gov.au/helping-households/

July 12, 2011July 13, 2011

Carbon Pricing – Industry impacts

Many believe the new carbon tax, released by Prime Minister Gillard’s government on the 10^th July, is the single most important action taken to reduce global warming by Australia.

The exact details of the plan are now public. A multi-party carbon pricing committee that included the Prime Minister, independents Rob Oakeshott and Tony Windsor, a number of Greens MP’s and a number of Labor Party ministers developed and negotiated the new scheme. The Liberal Party refused to be involved in the process, in spite of being invited. They declined their seats and cited disagreement with the introduction of a carbon tax for Australia as the reason behind their refusal.

Industries impacted

Large-scale industry will be most affected. The following will be included in the tax:

Corporations, businesses and facilities that create at least 25,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year. However, some industries are exempt.
500 of the highest polluting businesses will pay the carbon price. This price will actually increase by 2.5% above inflation until 2015.
In 2015, a market based emissions trading scheme will take over.
$9.2 billion from the revenue stream will go to businesses and workers the scheme affects.
The most polluting electricity generators in Australia will be shut down and will be replaced by gas-fired equivalents by 2020.
Assistance for very high polluting industries that rely on exports will be via free permits. Industries affected by this will include aluminium, steel, flat glass making, zinc, pulp and paper-making.
The transport industry – heavy vehicles such as semi trailers etc. – will pay carbon tax on diesel from 2014. Up until then, a two year moratorium will be in place.
$300million will be set aside to support steel manufacturing and industry employment.
$1.3 billion is set aside as a reward incentive to coal mines that reduce their emissions.[1]

Industry is also encouraged to source new technologies and green innovations, from the research and development through to marketing strategies. $3.2 billion has been set aside to develop a new agency that will develop these programs and ideas.

SBS Australia has stated that “several industry groups – including representatives of coalminers, aluminium producers and retailers – have criticized the scheme. The Australian Coal Association has even reiterated its vocal opposition and says the scheme will result in mine closures.[2] The industry is most concerned about the rising costs due to the tax.

Industries supporting the scheme

However, some industries are supportive. The Australian Geothermal Energy Association (AGEA) has said the scheme would provide a platform for the development of new clean energy projects.

The Clean Energy Finance Corporation also says the new tax will help their sector.[2]

Caltex Australia has also stated the scheme is sensible because the new tax does not apply to fuels used in light vehicles.

Envirosafe Solutions will continue to bring you relevant and updated information on the new scheme. Stay tuned for more reports on the impact on individual families and small business. Envirosafe Solutions continues to support a balanced and thoroughly negotiated approach to emissions trading and taxing. It also encourages the use of its environmentally friendly products that do less damage to the planet. For more information or for order and purchase enquiries, please phone Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 889070

[1] http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2011/07/10/3265732.htm

[2] http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/1569273/latest-from-wire/

July 11, 2011July 11, 2011

Australian Scientists Unite

Australia is an amazing place, populated by amazing people. One group of concerned individuals – scientists and business people and economists in fact – have banded together to form an independent organisation of “concerned individuals with conservation interests. They are now known as “The Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists.”[1]

History

The group was formed in 2002, and since then has been an instigator for change and spotlighting of various groundbreaking new approaches to land and water management in Australia. Their first major statement at that time was called Blueprint for a Living Continent and set out major issues some of which include:

Restoration of environmental flows to stressed rivers
Clarification of water property rights
The end of broadscale land clearing of remnant native vegetation
Paying farmers for environmental services (clean water, fresh air, healthy soils)

Its members comprise such notables as Dr Neil Byron, Professor Tim Flannery, Dr. Ronnie Harding and Professor David Kelly. It maintains that its three core objectives form the backbone of its approach and ideas in relation to the environment and Australia. These comprise:

Driving innovation in the management of Australia’s land, water and marine resources
Engage business and political and even community leader in conversation to source and also to implement solutions for the Australian environment
Build capacity in Australia by mentoring young scientists, lawyers and economists to develop their skills and their understanding of public policy[2]

To date, the interdisciplinary body has delivered 8 seminal blueprints that have motivated various state and federal governments to act on such issues as a national water plan, a new model for landscape conservation, the need for optimizing carbon in the Australian landscape and the need for sustainable diversions in the Murray-Darling basin.

One of the most distinct and exciting aspects of the Wentworth group is the firm commitment to a Science and Mentoring and Master Class program to “enhance the ability of students, scientists and economists to engage in public policy on the future of our land, water and marine resources.”[3]Participants in these particular programs are given access and opportunity to work one-to-one with various members of the Wentworth Group so that they can apply their knowledge later on, to various public policy outcomes. This program is viewed as a symbiotic one, with a two way interrelationship, whereby the Wentworth Group members also experience the chance to learn about leading-edge research and in-the-field issues from the visiting participants.

The group also offers a series of scholarships with the aim to help young scientists understand the need to pull together both science and public policy issues in order to ensure that their research has relevance and potential for future decision making and science at a world class level.

With the Wentworth group, Australia can at least be partially assured against the mass migration of its young scientists overseas, as has been the case for many years. Traditionally, the opportunity for scientists in Australia has been fairly limited, as Peter Doherty, Australian scientist and Nobel Laureate has stated. “America for example,” he says, “simply spends a lot more on research than Australia does,” and this issue has led to the Australian brain drain, as it is now known.[4] Certainly, the opportunities posed and presented by The Wentworth Group go some way in attempting to stem the flow, by attracting Australia’s young environmental scientists and thinkers to stay at home and develop their research and public policy approaches here, as opposed to overseas.

Envirosafe Solutions supports the work of groups such as the Wentworth Group, who are leading the way forward in the development of excellent environmental research and stellar opportunities for young Australian scientists.

Telephone Envirosafe Solutions to learn more about their eco-friendly products, on 1300 88 90 70.

[1] http://www.wentworthgroup.org/about-us

[2] Ibid.

[3] Ibid

[4] Australian scientists overseas.

http://abc.net.au/rn/science/ss/stories/s279643.htm

July 8, 2011June 29, 2011

Worst-Case Melt-Through for Fukushima

The UN’s Fukushima Nuclear Accident Update Log has announced that the situation continues to remain very serious, and may in fact be a worst case-scenario. On the 8^th May, the Japanese authorities announced that the situation goes beyond a mere meltdown scenario and may now be considered “ a melt-through.” The nuclear fuel in 3 reactors has possibly melted through the tough pressure vessels and has now possibly accumulated in the outer containment areas.

On-site measurements continue to read high, despite minor fluctuations and minor decreases in levels.[1] In addition, food monitoring and food restrictions continue and the twenty kilometre no-go zone around the reactor remains virtually deserted, save for the occasional elderly Japanese villager, who feels too old and overwhelmed to leave.

In relation to food, restrictions continue to be placed upon milk, certain fish, turnips and ostrich fern in specific areas impacted by the nuclear accident. The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare also announced that head-type leafy vegetables such as cabbage, as well as flower head brassicas such as broccoli and cauliflower, and shitake mushrooms are also restricted regarding distribution and consumption. Marine and seawater monitoring has shown fluctuations in radioactive concentrations with rises registered at the end of May 2011. The offshore sampling positions have also shown the contamination of marine sediment and the need for possible removal of particulate matter in the future.

On the 1^st June 2011 the International Atomic Energy Agency released its Preliminary Summary on Fukushima disaster that occurred with the East Japan Tsunami. [2]

The paper announced that the main preliminary findings and lessons learned are as follows:

“The Japanese Government, nuclear regulators and operators have been extremely open in sharing information and answering the many questions the IAEA have had
The response on site has been excellent and has resulted in the best approach to securing safety, given the exceptional circumstances.
The Japanese Government’s longer term response – including evacuations – has been impressive and extremely well organized. A suitable and timely follow up program on public and worker exposures would be beneficial.
The planned road-map will need modifications as new circumstances and scenarios are uncovered. International co-operation may be needed here.
The tsunami hazard for several sites was under-estimated. In future, nuclear designers and operators should appropriately evaluate and provide protection against the risks of all natural hazards.
Nuclear regulatory systems should address extreme external events adequately and should ensure that regulatory independence and clarity of reviews are aligned with IAEA safety standards.
Severe long term combination of external events should be adequately covered in design, operations, resourcing and emergency arrangements
Hardened Emergency on-site Emergency Response Centers should be provided for all major nuclear facilities with severe accident potential.
Hydrogen risks should be subject to detailed evaluation and necessary mitigation systems provided
Emergency arrangements for the early phases especially, should be designed to be robust.[3]

In short, the International Atomic Energy Agency has also maintained that the Fukushima accident offers an unfortunate and yet unique opportunity to develop and improve on worldwide nuclear safety strategies. With the latest news on the details of the melt-through still only scant, the world waits to consider the full developments and impacts of this situation.

Envirosafe Solutions provides regular updates on the Fukushima situation as these come to light. Updates are available on the Envirosafe Solutions News and Events section of our website. Support an environmentally safe world. Support environmentally safe industry and products. Call Envirosafe Solutions now on 1300 88 90 70.

[1] International Atomic Energy Agency http://www.iaea.org/newscenter/update/tsunamiupdte01.html

[2] IAEA http://www.iaea.org/newscentre/focus/fukushima/missionsummary010611.pdf

[3] Ibid.