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Highlight on the Amazon

The Amazon in South America is suffering. And proposed changes to aspects of Brazilian legislation are set to undermine the The Brazilian Forest Code that currently protects land in the Amazon.

The Forest Code was passed in the 1930’s and states that “a landowner must keep part of their land intact. For land in the Amazon, 80% must be kept in its natural condition.”[1]

Just several weeks ago, on May 24 2011, members of the Brazilian House of Representatives swung in favour of alteration to The Brazilian Forest Code. There was a resounding vote in favour of changes that herald a new era of destruction for Amazon forest life.

The proposed changes – that will undermine Amazon biodiversity and environmental stability are:

  • A full amnesty for those farmers and concerns that have already degraded land above and beyond the 80% protection level
  • Reduction to the 80% protection level currently in existence. Natural vegetation on rural properties and along streams and rivers (the riparian buffer zone) are therefore under threat.
  • Permits to be granted for tree lopping – including that of threatened species such as the Araucaria pine

Dr. Meg Symington, Managing Director of the Amazon Program for the World Wildlife Fund has said these alterations represent a “massive step backwards for Brazil in terms of its environmental policy and could lead to massive increases in deforestation.”[2]

Currently, deforestation worldwide contributes as much as 20% of global carbon emissions. Since the proposed changes to The Brazilian Forest Code were introduced, there has been a massive 540% increase in deforestation in the Mato Gross state alone, and it is believed this is due to “landowners anticipating no financial repercussion for lands already cleared, as is one of the proposed changes that are underway.”[3] She has also stated that “4-7% of today’s current global emissions come from the carbon dioxide releases as a result of deforestation in the Amazon.”[4]

The powerful Brazilian farming lobby supports the changes and says it would make Brazil’s agricultural sector far more competitive by increasing their access to productive and fertile lands.  The old 80% figure would be cut down to 20%, freeing up vast tracts of rainforest for further farming and agrarian pursuits.

The main threats, according to Greenpeace, come from soy and cattle producers as well as loggers. Their concern is not only for the wildlife and the delicate rainforest ecosystem, but also the indigenous communities whose cultures and way of life are at risk.[5]

The World Wildlife Fund and Greenpeace, as well as many international and Brazilian based environmental organisations are increasing pressure on the Brazilian Government at present, in an attempt to alter or at least slow down the proposed changes to The Forest Code.

Envirosafe Solutions supports the need for responsible consideration of farming, deforestation and legislative practices worldwide to ensure the ongoing maintenance and survival of areas as precious and priceless as The Amazon.

Their own approach to environmental issues is strictly “low impact” and is designed to comprehensively deploy product approaches that minimise harm to the earth. Responsibility is the key.

Speak with one of the sales team to obtain Envirosafe Solutions Extreme Green range of products. Join the Green Revolution!

Envirosafe Solutions 1300 889070

[1] WWF http://www.worldwildlife.org/what/wherewework/amazon/threats-forest-code.html

[2] Ibid

[3] Ibid

[4] Ibid.

[5] http://www.greenpeace.org/international/en/campaigns/forests/amazon/threats-and-solutions/

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Digging into the Deep

Marine Glass Cleaner, Radiator Cleaner

Deep sea mining in the Pacific is on the increase, with the number of firms seeking licenses growing very rapidly. New licenses have recently been granted for various areas surrounding Fiji, Tonga, Papua New Guinea and Solomon  Islands.

Up until a few years ago, this type of deep sea mining for precious metals was deemed too costly, but with rapid advances and innovations in technology, new exploration processes and techniques have been developed, making this form of mining both profitable and feasible.

According to Steve Smith of Greenpeace, “seabed mining is an emerging threat to the world’s oceans, and Greenpeace is now working regionally here in the Pacific as that is where it is emerging right now. We are also working in the United Nations framework to ensure that the world’s oceans are protected for the benefit of the world’s people.”[1]

As the rise in license approvals increases, so too does the call for a more informed approach to underwater explorations. Various Pacific rights groups have also called for a moratorium on the granting of all future deep-sea mining licenses in the Pacific, and hope to generate debate on the subject. Media coverage of the subject continues and June 2011 will see the hosting of a Pacific regional meeting in Fiji which aims to map out the future of ocean mineral mining in the entire region. The world’s first commercial lease for deep-sea mining was granted in January to the Canadian based Nautilus Minerals firm, and will focus on the extraction of gold and copper from the sea bed, about 50 km off the Papua New Guinea Coast.[2]

However, the International Union for the Conservation of Nature has also weighed in on the debate and has stated that seabed mining may in fact be far less environmentally damaging than many forms of land-based mining. It adds also, that more work needs to be done to fully understand its full impact.  Dr. Jan Steffen, Marine Coordinator for the IUCN’s Oceania Division says the framework legislation to regulate deep-sea mining needs to be much the same as that for land-based mining. “Land-based mining has decades of experience and I think we would want to see the same rigour applied on the seabed, plus of course, the additional factors that come up when it comes to connectivity and the sea and the fact that many of the sea vent communities (where mining may occur) are unique, and so one would want to minimise impact.”[3]

A responsible approach to development and mining of the sea bed is likely to be the way forward and the reality. While many industry groups tout the primacy of the need for exploration and mining, and many environmental groups tout the need for a complete cessation on all developments, perhaps the real issue is for the development of ongoing responsible and sustainable exploration and approaches that support both industry and green groups.  The two do not need to be mutually exclusive!

Envirosafe Solutions supports a responsible consideration of all the facts involved when it comes to development, resources and industry.

For more information on the Envirosafe Solutions distinct Eco-friendly product range call 1300 88 90 70

[1] Greenpeace http://www.greenpeace.org/australia/en

[2] http://abcasiapacificnews.com/stories/201106/3233315.htm?site=sydney

[3] ibid.

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The politics of the carbon tax

Extreme Green, Environmental Cleaning ProductsNutting out a multi-partisan approach to climate change in Australia continues to be a major concern for Australian business and families and communities. The problem may be a failure to compromise on the part of the major parties and the tendency to use what is a serious issue as a political popularity strategy, moving it further and further away from its real aim which is to develop a clear and sustainable approach that can save future generations from dire climate change consequences if governments fail to act.

To further complicate the issue, climate change sceptic Lord Christopher Monckton has been touring Australia and has recently been speaking in Perth at the invitation of industry on the west of the continent. Lord Monckton recently claimed that Professor Ross Garnaut’s ‘view that people should accept the mainstream view of climate change is akin to “fascism.”’[1]

At present, the multi-party climate change committee comprising Greens, Labor and Liberal and independents, is meeting to try to reach a solution to the carbon tax deadlock. The committee is also advised by a panel of 4 independent experts – Professor Ross Garnaut, Professor Will Steffen, Mr. Rod Sims and Ms. Patricia Faulkner.[2]

Independent, Mr. Rob Oakeshott has said that the most contentious issues where agreement is still not being reached are:

  • Compensation for polluting industries that rely on exports
  • Compensation for Australian households
  • Proportion of carbon tax to be funnelled over to renewable energy projects.[3]

Mr Oakeshott has also stated that he hopes agreements on these key points can be clarified and reached in the coming two weeks.

And while debate rages on the issue between the major parties, some industries and organisations are transitioning towards the change. Rather than disputing the relevance of a carbon tax, the Australian Aluminium Council has come forward and stated that “we understand there will be a carbon price and we are now looking for that to be factored in a way that gives industry a chance to compete with overseas producers and a chance to transition to a low carbon economy.”[4] Miles Prosser, the council’s representative also said that the main requirement for his industry was time – time to adapt to the changes and time to make sure that jobs sites such as Alcoa’s Portland refinery were not lost because of a too rapid implementation of a carbon price scheme.

One of the key issues the Greens have been calling for on the Climate Change panel is what proportion of money from the carbon tax scheme will be coursed towards renewable energy projects. There has been debate in the media in the past few days suggesting that the Labor government has acceded to this request as part of a compromising solution to the deadlock.

Envirosafe Solutions supports the development of a multi-party compromise to the carbon tax deadlock and will keep readers updated on the latest developments concerning the multi-party climate change committee and the finalities of any agreements relating to the carbon tax. For more information on other eco-friendly approaches to domestic and business practices and cleaning and the minimisation of your environmental footprint, call Envirosafe Solutions on  1300889070

[1] http://www.abc.net.au/lateline/content/2011/s3252161.htm

[2] http://www.climatechange.gov.au/media/whats-new/climate-change-committee.aspx

[3] http://www.abc.net.au/news/storied/2011/06/29/3256399.htm?section=justin

[4] http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2011/06/29/3256145.htm

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Cane Toad Threat

Envirosafe Solutions considers the biodiversity which is threatened by the introduced cane toad species. The flora and fauna of our north, as well as the environment as far south as the mid-coast of NSW are all impacted by this problematic and poisonous pest. But latest research indicates there is hope and solutions are in the pipeline.

eco-friendly liquid products

Cane toads – an introduced species – pose considerable risk to the top end of Australia and have had a devastating impact on the wildlife and species diversity in Queensland, Northern NSW and The Northern Territory.

They are now considered a pest in Australia and the CSIRO Animal Health laboratory, and other academic institutions nationally, have been searching for biological control of cane toads in order to eradicate or control their spread and devastation to natural flora and fauna.[1]

Species Invasion

The cane toad was originally introduced to Australia in the 1930’s to help control and eat the Greyback Cane Beetle and French’s Cane Beetle that were affecting cane production in Queensland. The larvae (whitegrub) of these beetles eat sugar cane root and consequently kill or stunt the growth of the young cane plants.[2] Initially 100 cane toads were imported to Australia by the Australian Bureau of Sugar Experimentation Stations. These bread very quickly and by 1935, 3000 were released into north Queensland sugar plantations to help curb the spread of the beetles. Numerous scientists protested the release of the toad into the Australian environment at that time, including the then Curator of the Australian Museum, Roy Kinghorn. [3]

Biodiversity Threat

Rick Shine, Professor of Biology at the University of Sydney, has been investigating the cane toad for many years. “These feral amphibians have become a major invasive threat to Australian biodiversity,” he states.[4] He and his scientific team – Team Bufo – are currently focusing on cane toads in the Fogg Dam area in the Northern Territory. Professor Thomas Madsen and Dr Beata Ujvari have noted that in that region alone, most of the large floodplain goannas of that region have been killed by eating cane toads. There is also a 10% mortality rate with the Fogg Dam death adder population since the cane toad arrival, and radio-tracking work performed by Dr. Meri Oakwood also notes a similarly high mortality rate amongst the quolls and also the freshwater crocodiles of the area just upstream.[5] Fortunately, research also seems to indicate that cane toad poison does not seem to be too much of a problem for birds and bird life.

Methods of Control

Up until recently, the main method of control has been to simply go out and eradicate toads through hunting and disposal. This is a long and arduous process, and because of their ability to reproduce so rapidly has minimal effect.

Professor Shine’s team has begun to develop some new control methods that may help with eradication:

  • Alarm chemicals – cane toads release an alarm pheromone as a fear response. It travels through water and alerts other toads and motivates them to move away from the pheromone. It also stresses them. Repeated exposure to the pheromone over weeks caused half of cane toad tadpole populations to die and significantly stunted the growth of the remaining survivors. This may be able to be used, without harmful impact to frogs and other species.
  • Parasitic nematode lungworms that do not harm native frog species have a severe impact on cane toads, and there is hope this worm may kill many of the toads once they mature and leave the water.[6]

Team Bufo researchers may well lead us to an eradication of the cane toad in the north of Australia where its effects are most prevalent. Our precious biodiversity requires protection and the talent, energy and dedication of Australian research scientists and students is helping to increase our understanding of cane toads and the real impact they have on our precious environment.

Envirosafe Solutions is proud to highlight the work of Professor Shine and his team as they continue on with their valuable work.

For more information on environmentally sound products that also help our precious environment, call Envirosafe Solutions and speak with one of our customer service representatives who can help you source eco-friendly products with a low environmental impact.

Envirosafe Solutions 1300 889070.

[1] http://australianmuseum.net.au/Cane-Toad

[2] Ibid

[3] Ibid

[4] http://www.canetoadsinoz.com

[5] http://www.canetoadsinoz.com/biodiversity-impact.html

[6] Ibid

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Camera Catches Coral

The impact of environmental issues on reef systems is under closer scrutiny with the use of new underwater cameras on The Barrier Reef.

Glass Cleaner, Soil Wetta, Dust Suppressor

The beauty of coral reefs cannot be underestimated. There is the delight of underwater gardens, swaying with the undulations of the sea, grasses gliding back and forth, fish darting, and schools of reef pelagics swirling like sub-marine dandelions as the sun glitters down from the sky above. Anyone who has snorkeled or dived the reefs of Queensland or Western Australia will be well acquainted with this unsurpassable natural phenomenon. Heaven!

The study of coral reefs has become increasingly important in recent years as sea temperature rises continue to impact on coral reef life and marine ecosystems, globally. Additionally, water quality has been compromised by terrestrial runoff, particularly in some areas along the Queensland coast of Australia, where cane farm chemicals have been known to impact reef ecosystems adversely.

These ecosystems are particularly delicate because they thrive and proliferate in contexts that are extremely close to their absolute physiological limits. This means that environmental impacts that may not impact a more robust environment have a far greater capacity to undermine, in areas such as reefs where the margin of environmental error is reduced by this need to “live on the edges.” [1]

Around 30% of the extra CO2 in the atmosphere is known to dissolve into the ocean. “As a consequence of this, the chemistry of the oceans is becoming more acidic…which in turn impacts on the health of some fish and coral species.”[2] The delicate balance is thrown out, and this has the ability to undermine the whole system. The natural slightly alkaline nature of the oceans is in fact conducive to the calcification processes at the centre of tropical coral reefs. And with a shift in CO2 levels comes a rise in acid. Current predictions for the end of this century herald a pH reading of .4, “which is well outside the realms of anything organisms have experienced over millions of years.”[3] In short, we are now moving towards completely unchartered territory, with unknown consequences for mankind and for the ocean.

The need to monitor and survey oceanic and reef systems as become more pressing, given the nature of this unchartered territory we are now heading into and The Australian Institute of Marine Science [4] are leading the way with “the installation of a permanent underwater camera on The Great Barrier Reef that will give them…snapshots of life underwater in order to answer questions about the real time effects of rising temperatures and coral bleaching.”[5]

Dr. Ray Berkelmans from the Institute heads a new monitoring program, which is a world first. A webcam has been set up on Davies Reef just off Townsville and every 15 minutes images are taken that are then made available online. Dr. Berkelmans says this constant flow of pictures will help scientists to verify the direct effects of coral bleaching.

“You can have warm temperatures but very cloudy days, and it will not bleach nearly as quickly as when there is no cloud and lots of sunlight coming in, so there’s a multitude of factors and this will help us improve our predictions.”[6]

But the benefit of the visual data will extend beyond coral and also include the marine life of the Davies Reef bommie where the camera is fixed. This will also allow for a good database of information on fish life and habits/behaviour which is hard to gain via traditional scuba methods.

Envirosafe Solutions supports the respect and nurture of our marine environments. Its low-phosphate liquid detergents are proven to be kinder to the marine environment and our waterways. For more information on the Envirosafe Solutions range of products call 1300 88 90 70

[1] Climate Change and The Tropical Environment. Australian Institute of Marine Science. http://www.aims.gov.au/docs/research/climate-change/position-paper.html

[2] Ibid.

[3] Ibid.

[4] Ibid

[5] http://www.abc.net.au/am/content/2011/s3238415.htm

[6] Ibid.

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Tasmanian timber industry agrees to a logging settlement

It’s a win-win, and possibly an example of sensibly measured outcomes that are based on compromise and consideration from both sides. Yes. There is an agreement concerning 430,000 hectares of native forest in Tasmania which will now be protected from logging.

According to Terry Edwards of The Forest Industries Association, an exact net worth of the deal cannot be measured. Suffice to say however “it will be a significant sum of money.”[1] While the Tasmanian state opposition has criticised the deal, the Tasmanian Premier Lara Giddings and Gunns have welcomed the peace deal recommendations.

Internationally acclaimed Dr. Joe Landsberg, the former CSIRO Forest Division chief, has frequently mentioned the importance of forests to humanity. In a 2010 interview with ABC science reporter Robin Williams, he said that “forests are important for their aesthetic, ecological and direct economic values and also because they absorb around 20% of the carbon dioxide modern human activities emit into the atmosphere.”[2]

Forests vary in type, density and foliage and range from the exotic and plush “luxuriant” rainforest types through to the more impoverished and denuded forests that are found in boreal regions across the globe.

Landsberg also maintains that if we are to manage these forests appropriately, we need to measure and know the mass of materials in them and we need to understand the growth rates to predict and map out forest growth – which are known as process based models – in the forestry community. This will then give us an understanding of the value of specific forests and aid in their management, protection and preservation.

Certainly, the management of forests in Australia could benefit greatly from the process based models proposed by Dr. Landsberg. The history of conflict over rainforest growth in areas such as Tasmania where the recent settlement has just occurred, as well as parts of Queensland could well be averted, with recourse to a scientifically grounded set of facts and measurements that remove emotional bias and heated contention from old growth forest conflicts.

The new Tasmanian settlement between the logging industry and environmental groups was facilitated by the ACTU’S Bill Kelty who helped broker the 9 page agreement. Some of the outcomes include:

Gradual exiting of timber felling from native forests

4-5 mill closures in Tasmania

The Environment Minister Tony Burke also said the decision was particularly momentous because it is the only time Environment Tasmania, the Australian Conservation Foundation and the forestry industry have agreed and reached a joint position on an issue.[3]

Envirosafe Solutions also supports the historic agreement and operates as a green business that promotes sustainable industry. “Envirosafe Solutions is 100% committed to reducing their own environmental impact and believe in leading by example.”[4]

Envirosafe Solutions Extreme Green Range of products is available now. Simply call 1300 88 90 70 to order.

[1] http://www.abc.net.au/nes/stories/2011/06/24/3252312.htm

[2] http://www.abc.net.au/rn/ockhamsrazor/stories/2010/3089173.htm

[3] http://www.abc.net.au/pm/content/2011/s3251854.htm

[4] http://www.envirosafesolutions.com.au/about_menu.php?id=8

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The Wonders of Eucalyptus

If you have ever travelled to the Blue Mountains, west of Sydney on the east coast of Australia, the image of the azure haze of the eucalypt gums will remain etched in your mind’s eye forever. The eucalyptus oil that is responsible for the magnificent haze is a versatile and complex substance, comprising more than 100 different compounds. Hailing from the Myrtaceae family, the tree has received a great deal of interest from environmentalists and researchers because of its novel and complex compound composition. While many of the compounds found in the eucalypt are highly effective on their own, when they combine and connect, they produce superior therapeutic and antiseptic results and outcomes. In recent years, their potential as a bio-fuel has also been thoroughly researches and lauded.[1]

These compounds that form the basis of eucalyptus oil are cultivated worldwide from small village cash-crop concerns such in Peru, Africa, and Kodaikanal and other hill stations in Southern India, through to large scale harvesting and steam distillation concerns in China, South Africa, Portugal and Australia. The power and prominence of the gum leave has undoubtedly gone global!

Envirosafe Solutions is well aware of the commercial viability and the strong antibacterial qualities of many of the eucalyptus tree’s compounds and has sourced industrial eucalyptus oil for its Extreme Green Disinfectant.  The cineole-based oil has strong antibacterial effects, which translates to a cleaner and more serene living environment, free from germs and nasty microbial activity. This product is of commercial grade and standard, so it is suitable for larger scale cleaning jobs in office areas, schools, factories, large toilet and shower areas in sporting clubs, as well as gritty refuse areas and virtually anywhere where odours cause a problem.

Extreme Green Disinfectant has a fresh eucalyptus perfume, leaving the cleaned area fragrant and sparkling. It is even safe to use in septic tanks because of its full biodegradability and it also retains its efficiency in both hard and soft water. It’s therefore suitable for cleaning in remote areas and regions in industries such as mining and agriculture. Most importantly it is completely safe and easy to use and won’t hurt your family, your pets or your workforce. For general disinfecting, simply dilute Eucalyptus Disinfectant at a ratio of 1:30 with water. And for more rigorous requirements of heavy duty cleaning, simply alter the ratio and increase the ratio to a 1:20 with water. This ratio will work best for harder tasks such as refuse areas, rubbish bins and ingrained and soiled areas.

Like other Envirosafe Solutions quality products, Extreme Green Eucalyptus Disinfectant has an indefinite shelf life when stored appropriately,* which means your dollar goes further and lasts longer and there is no need to watch that “use by date” label!

Envirosafe Solutions is able to supply quality eucalyptus based disinfectant of superior quality which is suitable for home, commercial and industrial use.

Telephone Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70.

*store in a cool, dry and well ventilated location away from direct sunlight.

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

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The Humble Loo

We need them. We rely on them. Just about everyone in Australia has one. And there is nothing worse than entering into one and finding it dirty, smelly and unclean.

Yes…we are talking about the humble loo… the WC, the lav, the khazy, the good old Aussie backyard dunny.[1] And whether it is an outhouse OR an in-house, whether it is a pristine part of your home or office space or a light-weight transportable port-a-loo, the good old toilet in all its guises and designs, all its shapes and sizes…needs regular cleaning.

E-Coli

Toilets are a rich breeding ground for potentially harmful bacteria. One such nasty is E-coli, a fecal coliform commonly found in human and animal intestines and also in fecal waste matter. While some forms of fecal coliform and E.coli are harmless, others are known to cause severe gastric and dehydration problems which are painful, costly and debilitating. [2]

The Shiga Toxigenic E.coli infection (E.coli 0111 and E.coli 0157) are known to cause diarrheal illness, nausea and vomiting and abdominal cramps, and at worst, can lead to Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome (HUS) which is characterized by kidney failure, bleeding and anemia. These strains of E.coli are easily spread – particularly when individuals come into indirect contact with the particles in contaminated water.

A clean loo is a healthy loo

Envirosafe Solutions understands the need to keep the toilet area of your house or office free from such nasties. Its Extreme Green Toilet Bowl Cleaner is formed from a high foaming sanitizing and cleaning gel with increased viscosity, which means more product punch for your money. It’s phosphate free, non-toxic and has a three point green Envirosafe Hazard rating, making it safe to use in any environment.

Envirosafe Solutions also produces a port-loo companion product that is designed for use in long drop, septic and portable toilets. Great for caravans, boats or remote regions where cassette style or the long drop systems may be in use, The Extreme Green Porta-loo Treatment is fully bio-degradable and can be emptied into a caravan’s waste-system or and enviro-cycle type system with the minimum of fuss. It keeps the area fresh, germ-free and appropriately perfumed and has an indefinite shelf life, making it great for remote areas and travelling. Extreme Green Porta-Loo Treatment is also free of formaldehyde which means it can be used without harming this beautiful land of ours. Simply pour 25 ml into the holding tank with 250mls of water once every seven days for optimum results. Rest assured your toilet area will be clean, germ-free with low waste-impact on the environment.

Call Envirosafe for all your toilet cleaning products, on 1300 88 9070

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

[2] Shiga Toxigenic Escherichia coli (STEC) Infection Fact Sheet. NSW Department of Health. http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/factsheets/infectious/shigatoxigenic.html

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Small Spills Aren’t Thrills

Any kind of hazardous waste spill can be toxic, dangerous and potentially threatening to a population. On a large scale, one only needs to consider recent events such as the Japan Earthquake and the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant incident to understand the full ramifications of a massive spill or leakage of toxic material. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, in the case of Fukushima there is some risk of radiation contamination through exposure to foodstuff s such as milk and vegetables with radioactive casein and radioactive iodine detected in these products. There is also a continued twenty km exclusion zone around the site, which has meant the complete cessation of entire communities and populations which will now need to be rehoused. [1]

Like Exxon Valdez and the 2010 BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico, the Fukushima Daiichi situation is a worst case scenario, gaining major news coverage globally and impacting communities, flora and fauna in extreme ways. But all over the globe, each day, there are literally millions of spills and accidents involving toxic materials that go unchecked, unnoticed and untreated. When there is a clean-up of these mini-spills, they are often performed haphazardly and without due attention, resulting in residual toxic material being left to seep into drain systems, waterways, the groundwater table, the soil and the immediate environment. Oils and petroleum are particularly onerous spill materials, because of this ready ability to leach into the soil and to nearby waterways.

Envirosafe Solutions has formulated an excellent product response to this type of accident, with its Extreme Green SpillZorbe/Zeolite. SpillZorbe/Zeolite is tested to USEPA standards and does not leach into landfill once removed and deposited there in accordance with safe disposal methods.

The natural bonding action of the zeolite makes it a great deal more successful in adsorption and absorption and its particle size gradation successfully maximizes its surface area and therefore its efficacy. It can also be used for bitumen spills, mild acids and alkalis, paint and ink and dyes as well as various other organic toxins.[2] SpillZorbe/Zeolite also has a maximum Envirosafe Hazard rating for health, environment and transport and storage, making it safer to use in the home and the workshop.

It is fully biodegradable, and easy to use; “simply spread the Zeolite around the perimeter of the spill then work in from the edges towards the centre until no free liquid is visible.”[3] It’s as simple as that. However, always dispose of it appropriately in accordance with any local, state and federal regulations.

A spill does not have to be a major global event to require careful attention. Be aware of the smaller spills that occur every day around the house, the workshop, the garage and the office. And be sure to use a quality product that can clean up the residue quickly and effectively.

Call Envirosafe Solutions for product advice and purchase 1300 88 90 70

[1] http://www.iaea.org/About/japan-infosheet.html

[2] www.envirosafesolutions.com.au/productinnerpage.php?cat=28&product=41

[3] ibid

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Renewables and Public Policy: Where to from here?

Envirosafe Solutions brings you an update on the United Nations’ latest information on renewable energy approaches. Staying abreast of current and up to date information on sustainable global practices is a feature of the Envirosafe approach to green issues and concerns.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change maintains it is feasible to project that renewable energy can account for 80% of the world’s energy within forty years. The panel, which is overseen and convened by The United Nations comprises the world’s leading climatologists, and is currently investigating realistic options to the world’s current energy plight. Central to their findings, is the issue of disparate and obstructionist government policies worldwide, which are preventing the effective transition to renewables on a global scale. According to Ramon Pichs, co-chair of one of the panel’s working groups, “the report shows that it is not the availability of renewable resources but the public policies that will either expand or constrain renewable in the coming decades.” Developing countries have an important stake in the future – this is where most of the 1.4 billion people without access to electricity live yet also where some of the best conditions exist for renewable energy deployment.”[1]

These findings, launched at the IPCC’s Abu Dhabi Working Group Sessions on 9th May 2011 augur well for the planet’s future, providing there is policy support from national governments across the world. Youba Sokona, The Co-Chair of the panel’s Working Group III has added that “the potential role of renewable energy technologies is meeting the needs of the poor and in powering sustainable growth of developing and developed economies can trigger sharply polarized views. This IPCC report has brought some much needed clarity to this debate in order to inform government on the options and decisions that will be needed if the world is to collectively realize a low carbon, far more resource efficient and equitable development path.”[2]

The report also reviewed the six main renewable energy technologies:

  • Bioenergy
  • Direct solar energy
  • Geothermal energy
  • Hydropower
  • Ocean energy
  • Wind energy

Perhaps the most relevant aspect of the report is not so much an isolated consideration of these main renewables but a more in-depth consideration of how these more sustainable forms of energy production can be integrated into existing and future energy approaches and systems and policies.

The report also maintains public policies that recognize and “reflect the wider social, economic and environmental benefits of renewable energies, including their potential to cut air pollution and improve public health, will be key for meeting the highest renewable deployment scenarios.”[3]

In view of the Government’s latest 2011 budget in Australia, which left the issue of the environment clearly off the fiscal agenda, it will be interesting to see how Australia responds to the panel’s latest findings. One hopes a full understanding of the need for policy that supports the use of renewables can be developed and implemented worldwide in the coming years.

Envirosafe Solutions is a proudly Australian owned company that supports the use of renewables in industry, homes and business. Call Envirosafe Solutions for more information on their environmentally sustainable products.

Envirosafe Solutions 1300 88 90 70

[1] http://www.guardian.co.uk/environemnt/2011/may/09/ipcc-renewable-energy-power-world

[2] Press Release, IPCC, 2011. http://ipcc.ch/index.htm

[3] Ibid.

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Product Focus: Extreme Green Marine Glass Cleaner

Anyone who has lived near or worked around the sea or the ocean knows that salt build up and encrustations are a real problem. The repeated splashing of waves coupled with the process of evaporation often leaves surfaces caked and opaque, and in more extreme cases crusted or filmed with salt crystals that are unsightly and difficult to remove. But more than that, this nasty salt residue can also be classified as a real safety issue, because the film that builds can continue to develop until normal vision through the glass surface is dulled, distorted and in extreme cases, completely obscured.

Envirosafe Solutions has developed a highly effective product that cuts through these salt build ups and can restore glass surfaces to full transparency and full safety levels.  Originally developed and designed for the Navy, Envirosafe Solutions Extreme Green Marine Glass Cleaner removes the salt residues from all types of “ships glass including portholes or any glass surface exposed to salt water spray. Marine craft of all types, Aircraft, Port cranes Vehicles and Buildings and Construction equipment”[1] used near the sea can all be treated with The Extreme Green Marine Glass Cleaner.

Australia is largely a coastal dwelling continent, and many of its inhabitants live on or near coast areas where salt spray, rust and salt and sand encrustations are a part of everyday life. Extreme Green Marine Glass Cleaner is particularly suitable in areas such as these, where vehicles and household glass surfaces such as windows and screens are under constant exposure from the sea-charged elements. Properties and businesses repeatedly exposed to salt spray benefit enormously from this effective and easy-to-use product.

There are a number of benefits to Extreme Green Marine Glass Cleaner. It works quickly and efficiently, reducing the time and cost usually devoted to cleaning marine glass surfaces. And, it can be applied easily and smoothly, directly onto the surface using an atomiser or a similar washer system. There is no fuss and no major preparation required. To complete the job, just follow up with a simple brush and wipe off with a clean and dry cloth. For larger areas squeegees and windscreen wipers can be used with no damage to your equipment or your surfaces.

If you are based around salt water or the sea, or require an outstanding marine glass cleaner for your marine vessels, speak with Envirosafe Solutions’ friendly staff, who can assist you with all your product requirements. Extreme Green Marine Glass Cleaner is available in package sizes ranging from 4 litres through to 1000 litres, making it equally suitable for home, small business and major industry use.

Telephone Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70.

[1] www.envirosafesolutions.com.au/productinnerpage.php?cat=9&product=6

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On The Nose

What’s that smell? It’s early morning and you arrive at your workplace. It could be a factory or an industrial site. It could be a commercial kitchen or even an aircraft hangar or a veterinary clinic.  It’s a working site where large scale undertakings occur regularly and where benches and sinks are regularly wiped down to minimize soil, dirt, the accumulation of waste product.

Boy oh Boy! And this morning, that smell is bad….in fact it’s downright “on the nose!”

The sludge in the drains has built up again and it’s your job to maintain a high standard of health and cleanliness. So…what can you do?

Extreme Green Waste and Odour Treatment is the solution to the problem. It’s a waste and odour treatment that is kind to the environment because it is a “non-toxic and stable fermentation based product that contains special bio-degradable and environmentally responsible surfactants that utilize naturally occurring compounds.  These compounds actually stimulate microbiological activity that clears odour and sludge in septic systems, long drop toilets grease traps, sinks and drains and even holding ponds, freshening your environment and ridding it of unpleasant smells and odours.”[1]

It’s not only highly effective but also environmentally sound. It won’t hurt our waterways and it won’t damage our landscape. And, when used as directed it has the potential to revitalize the system as it destroys and eliminates the unpleasant smells.

Extreme Green Waste and Odour Treatment can be used in animal areas and veterinary facilities, in food preparation areas and even in abattoirs and chicken and fish processing plants where massive amounts of animal fats and by-product accumulate and need treatment in accompanying holding ponds.

It can also be used in garbage and refuse areas and can be sprayed into garbage disposal units and vehicles to cut down on odour, and has an almost indefinite shelf life when it is stored correctly.*

Whether your industry or concern is large scale or small, Envirosafe Extreme Green Waste and Odour Treatment is available in a packaging size to suit your needs. Whether it is 4 litres or 10 litres, 205 litres or 1,000 litres, Envirosafe Solutions supplies you with quantities that are tailored to your requirements and to your storage areas.

What’s more, Envirosafe’s Extreme Green Waste and Odour Treatment can even be diluted down to a ratio of 1:100 with water for general purpose cleaning and at a 1:25 ratio for heavy duty cleaning. There’s no need to double up or triple up on a whole storage facility of single use products.  Extreme Green Waste and Odour Treatment does it all.  Non-toxic, kind to our delicate environment, safe and bio-degradable and containing only naturally occurring ingredients, Extreme Green Waste and Odour Treatment is the perfect solution to distinct and difficult odours in your workplace.

Call Envirosafe Solutions now to order, on 1300 88 90 70.

*Store in a cool, dry, well ventilated location away from direct sunlight.

[1] http://www.envirosafesolutions.com.au/productinnerpage.php?cat-21&product=21

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It’s Easy Being Energy Efficient

Did you know that “conventional electricity from the supply grid currently produces the largest amount of C02 of any energy source per unit of energy used, except in Tasmania where most of the electric power is sourced from hydroelectricity?”[1] Given our reliance on electricity, it certainly gives us a bit to think about in terms of our own usage and our wish to make a personal difference to the plight of the planet.

So, what does it actually mean to “go green?” How can an individual implement new approaches and more sustainable practices in the home and office? There are so many ways we can convert words into action, if we are informed and educated about new green technologies and new green approaches. Developing an energy efficient life approach is just one way of contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions as well as reducing your energy bills considerably. Envirosafe Solutions offers some easy tips and ideas to help the average householder and business on their way….It’s all about action….

Envirosafe Tips to Increase Your Energy Efficiency

  • Install solar power panels on your roof.
  • Replace old light bulbs with new energy efficient “smart” bulbs. Think about CFLs (compact fluorescents) which use 80% less energy and last up to ten times longer than normal bulbs.
  • Turn off light switches and power points before bed. Your electricity bills will reduce dramatically and you will also be slashing your household’s CO2 emissions.
  • Don’t hesitate to have a home or office assessment done. Sustainability assessments involve a specialized consideration of your approach to power use, water use, refrigeration, cooking and can be done in a couple of hours.
  • When replacing appliances, source energy efficient versions and brands. Appliances actually account for around 30% of a household’s energy usage. Make sure to source brands that have an Australian energy rating label with lots of stars! (The more stars…the greater the efficiency.)
  • When replacing your refrigerator, be sure to purchase a size suited to your lifestyle and your real needs. A big, bold empty fridge that has lots of empty shelves for a couple or a small family, might look great but it will cost a lot more to run.
  • Front loader washing machines are known to be more water and energy efficient. Consider replacing your old top-loader with an eco-friendly front loader.
  • Consider insulation. Insulation prevents heat loss in winter and obstructs heat gain in summer.
  • TURN OFF THAT DRYER and hang the clothes outside! Did you know that a run of the mill clothes dryer actually contributes up to 3kilograms of greenhouse gases to the atmosphere with every load that is dried?
  • Buy a clothes horse and have an undercover drying area for rainy days.
  • Cut down on draughts in your office and/or your home. Did you know that blocking draughts around windows and doors can cut your energy bills by a massive 25%?
  • When cooking, think twice about using the oven. Ovens chew up energy at an alarming rate. Consider a fan-forced oven which uses less electricity, or if possible, switch to electric fry pans and even pressure cookers.
  • Check seals on your oven and your fridge
  • Don’t continually boil water unnecessarily
  • Remember to use a toaster as opposed to a stove or oven griller. Toasters use far less energy and are also more convenient![2]

We hope you enjoy these practical tips and can put them into action…soon.

And lastly of course, source environmentally safe household and industry products that are less harmful to the planet, such as those produced by Australia’s very own Envirosafe Solutions.

Call Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70

[1] www.yourhome.gov.au/technical/fs61.html

[2] http://www.livinggreener.gov.au/energy/

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Practical Tips for Greywater Reuse

It’s a dry and barren land…and it’s going to get drier. Climatologists predict water will become a more and more precious resource in the coming decades. And with this realization comes a reevaluation of the types of water we use and re-use and the various efficiency measures we can employ to cut our water bills and respect the environment at the very same time. According to the Western Australian Code of Practice for the Reuse of Greywater 2010, we need to “promote acceptable long-term greywater reuse and promote conservation of our quality ground and surface water supplies without compromising public health.”[1]

The longstanding impact of extensive drought in Australia as well as the strain placed on current water supplies by increasing population growth has meant that a concerted approach to the reuse of greywater has become viable and preferable as a mainstream undertaking.  The WA Code notes there are distinct advantages arising from greywater reuse, which include:

  • A reduction in potable water demand
  • A reduction in the amount of wastewater discharged directly into oceans and rivers
  • Healthier gardens, especially through drought periods
  • A clear reduction in household water bills.[2]

So…that’s the theory. Great. But Envirosafe Solutions wants to help you with practical suggestions for greywater use in your home or workplace. Here’s a list of active things you can do…

  • When considering the installation of a greywater system, match reality and need with type of system. There are literally hundreds of systems on the market so be informed and buy one that suits your purposes. DO you need one for indoor use and outdoor use, or will you be restricting your greywater use to the garden?
  • Check with local and state governments to see if you are eligible for assistance or rebates.
  • Match a system to your existing plumbing and drainage. Don’t make the mistake of purchasing a system that is incompatible with the current plumbing in your home or office.
  • When purchasing a greywater system, be sure to enquire about hidden costs. Does the timer, pump or any extra fittings come with the system, or do they cost extra?
  • BE fully informed on how to maintain your new system.
  • Try to keep the wastewater as clean as you can and favour cleaning products that are compatible with greywater use. You’ll be surprised at how many cleaning products are incompatible with greywater systems.[3]

Envirosafe Solutions range of eco-friendly liquids are 100% Australian made and absolutely safe to use with your greywater system. Envirosafe Solutions can advise you on their full range of products so that you can implement a greywater system and plan in your home that is environmentally safe, friendly to the family and cost-effective.

Phone Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70.

[1] Code of Practice for the Reuse of Greywater in Western Australia 2010

[2] Ibid. Pp7.

[3] http://livinggreener.gov.au/water/greywater/install-greywater-system

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Greenpeace and Non-Violent Direct Action

Envirosafe Solutions keeps a close watch on environmental related events and decisions in Australia and beyond. A recent court decision in New Zealand may eventually influence our own country’s relationship with environmental organisations, their tactics and their status in terms of not-for profit entities.

A 2011 New Zealand High Court decision has stripped New Zealand’s Greenpeace of its “charity status.”  A May 6 appeal was rejected by Justice Paul Heath, who stated that Greenpeace’s “political activities can no longer be regarded as ‘merely ancillary’ to its charitable purposes and that the NZ Charities Commission had been correct in disqualifying it for registration for potentially illegal activities.”[1]

The decision centred around the notion of illegality in relation to Non-Violent Direct Action – a potent form of resistance and activism that hold the opponent morally accountable through a tactic of non-violent resistance. At issue in the New Zealand High Court decision was the specific tactic of “trespass” which has been used by Greenpeace at times.

Justice Heath went on to say that the NZ Charity Commission was “correct in holding that non-violent, but potentially illegal activities (such as trespass,) were designed to put (in the eyes of Greenpeace) objectionable activities into the public spotlight,” and that these “were an independent object disqualifying it from registration as a charitable entry.”[2]

Non-violent Direct Action has a strong history exemplified in the US Civil Rights Movement and the mass civil disobedience resistance lead by Mahatma Gandhi in India in the early 20th Century. It focuses on concentrated passive resistance and is closely aligned to Quaker philosophy and values. Violence is deemed unacceptable morally as a protest tactic. In 2007 John Hepburn, Greenpeace Energy Campaigner, spoke of this Greenpeace, approach as it applied in an Australian context. “There will be accusations of violence and of being ‘un-Australian.’ And the thing is we’ll need to remember what is actually important. Life. And our children’s future. The consequences of doing nothing on climate change are just far too devastating, violent and irresponsible to contemplate. So…Greenpeace will continue taking peaceful direct action as we have done for thirty years.”[3]

Only time will tell whether the New Zealand High Court ruling will have a seepage effect into the Australian context and on Greenpeace’s use of Non Violent Direct Action tactics here.  If this is the case in the future, the modus operandi of many charitable organisations linked with environmental change will be affected considerably.

One thing does remain clear and that is the need for consistent effort in relation to environmental concerns and issues worldwide. Each of us can play a small part, from more vocal and robust activism through to considered choices regarding the products we use in the home, in the office, in our schools and in our industry.  Each of us can join the Green Revolution.

Call Envirosafe Solutions and find out more about their range of quality Australian made enviro-friendly products  1300 88 90 70 .

[1] McBeth, P. “Greenpeace too political to register as a charity, NZ court rules.” Sourced: http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/BU1105/

[2] Ibid.

[3] Hepburn,J. Thirty years of Peaceful Direct Action. http://www.greenpeace.org.au/Australia/news-and-events/opinions/30-years-of-peaceful-direct-ac