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Since the discovery of uranium at Kakadu in the early 1950s, mining nearthe World Heritage-listed site has been controversial. The Ranger uranium mine has been under pressure to make its operations more environmentally-friendly. Liquid wastewater contamination fears from its pits this month prompted Energy Resources of Australia (ERA) to unveil a $500 million rights issue.

Major uranium minor ERA hopes a $500 million rights issue this month will help solve wastewater issues that have hampered its operations.

Heavy rains which deluged north Australia early this year flooded the pits at ERA’s Ranger mine, prompting fears contaminated wastewater could spill into the surrounding World Heritage-listed national park, which includes tropical wetlands.

ERA announced that about $270 million of the rights issue would fund an expansion of wastewater treatment at Ranger, including a brine concentrator to convert wastewater into an environmentally-friendly liquid. The remaining funds would be used for further exploration around the mine, which is surrounded by the Kakadu National Park.

“ERA takes water management very seriously,” ERA chief executive Rob Atkinson has said.

“This capital allows ERA to progress the implementation of our water management strategy, which includes construction of a brine concentrator and other initiatives, in as timely a manner as possible.”

On average the Ranger mine supplies about 10 per cent of the world’s uranium, but has been plagued by more than 150 leaks, spills and licence breaches since opening in 1981.

Proponents of the green revolution have argued that mining was not compatible with the national park. Mining companies have been compelled to develop extreme green guidelines for mining and exploration, including minimising water and soil contamination, dust suppression and chemical reduction through the use of eco-friendly industrial liquids.

Kakadu mining history

The first uranium was discovered in Kakadu at Coronation Hill in 1944 and small-scale mining commenced in the mid-1950s.

During the 1970s new deposits were discovered but it was not until 1980 that the Ranger Uranium Mine was completed. The mine site and nearby Jabiluka township were excluded from the Kakadu National Park when it was established in 1981.

Cultural and environmental concerns

UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee announced in 1998 that it proposed to list Kakadu National Park as ‘in danger’ due to uranium mining. Lobbying by the Federal Government – which claimed other listed areas were also adjacent to mining – meant this tag was not adopted.

Mining benefits

Australia possesses 24 per cent of the world’s uranium deposits and uranium sales between 2000 and 2005 alone generated $2.1 billion for the economy.

Energy Resources of Australia – which is partly owned by Rio Tinto – pays 4.25 per cent of its gross sales revenue plus an annual land rent to the Federal Government, which is distributed to Aboriginal groups in the Top End. Since 1980 more than $200 million in royalties have been paid.

The proposed expansion of wastewater treatment capabilities at Ranger highlights efforts by the mining industry to minimisethe environmental cost of tapping into Australia’s underground resources. Environmental cleaning products company Envirosafe Solutions has been proud to support best environmental practice at mine sites by supplying low-toxic, eco-friendly industrial products. For more information about Envirosafe Solutions and its range of eco-friendly liquid products contact 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.climatespectator.com.au/news/uranium-miner-energy-resources-australia-raise-500m-solve-water-dilemma

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uranium_mining_in_Kakadu_National_Park#Benefits_of_uranium_mining

Fears over groundwater contamination have prompted a peak NSW farming body to call for a public register of chemicals used during coal seam gas mining. Hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, forces a chemical cocktail deep underground to release methane gas. Critics of this newer resource claim it is far from eco-friendly. Industrial liquid waste is a key concern.

The coal seam gas industry has been called on to disclose on a public register the chemicals used in fracking.

The NSW Farmers’ Association has made a submission to a State parliamentary inquiry challenging the industry to provide proof that any non-eco-friendly liquid products used during fracking will not damage agricultural water supplies.

It has also called for improved rights for landholders over coal seam gas drilling, including the right to stop mining companies from entering private land.

The agricultural lobby group’s concerns have drawn attention to the chemicals used during coal seam gas mining and whether the process is environmentally friendly. Liquid pumped from gas seams after fracking is (known as ‘produced’ or ‘associated’ water) is generally saline and must be correctly disposed of.

According to national lobby group Lock the Gate Alliance this ‘produced’ water is not an environmentally-friendly liquid. Products found include carcinogens, heavy metals, radionuclides and chemicals used in drilling and fracking.

The Lock the Gate Alliance has published a list of chemicals it claims are used during fracking, including:

• Propanol, a solvent used in the pharmaceutical industry;
• Butoxyethanol, a surfactant used to reduce surface tension;
• Acetic Acid, used as a pH buffer;
• Acrylic copolymer, a lubricant used by the building industry;
• Ammonium persulfate, used as an oxidizer;
• Boric Acid;
• Hydrochloric Acid;
• Methanol, used to aid gas flow.

The NSW Farmers’ Association has said its submission, which was made public in September, represents the concerns of the majority of the State’s food producers.

“In NSW at the moment fracking can actually be approved as part of a general work program at the beginning of a project and with some projects (in Queensland) you have thousands and thousands of wells,” association president Fiona Simson has said.

“We think there should be separate information for each well head, with a date that fracking happens and the exact chemicals they use each time. Why not have it all on the public record so people can see what activities are going on? Then, if something happens to the water in a particular space, it will be easier to show the cause.”

The body representing the coal seam gas industry is the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association. It said the creation of a register of non-environmentally friendly liquids used during fracking would have to be a government responsibility but that the sector would comply with any reporting requirements.

It has argued that changes to the Petroleum (Onshore) Act 1991 would set a “difficult precedent for the whole resource sector” and that to date agreements with landholders had been successfully reached.

The threat of groundwater contamination as a result of fracking is a concern for food production in Australia. Leading environmental cleaning products company Envirosafe Solutions supports increased transparency and accountability regarding the use of non-environmentally friendly liquid chemicals. For more information on eco-friendly liquid products suitable for the mining and agricultural sectors contact Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

Agriculture

http://www.smh.com.au/environment/water-issues/farmers-fight-to-protect-water-20110911-1k4bt.html#ixzz1apGXNupr

http://lockthegate.org.au/

Rubbish is threatening marine life along sections of Western Australia’s coastline. Further out in the Pacific Ocean a sea of rubbish twice the size of South Australia presents a major ecological crisis. These environmentaldisasters require cleaning operations and better disposal of the products we use everyday.

Western Australia’s precious marine life, including vulnerable snubfin dolphins, whales and turtles, are living among our discarded rubbish.

A recent survey and clean-up effort by environmental and indigenous groups found marine life was at risk from rubbish being dumped along once pristine coastline in north WA.

The extreme green cleaning effort removed more than 250kg of ocean debris. This included ropes, buoys, plastic bottles and rubber thongs. Plastic containers – from drink bottles to household environmental cleaning products including dishwashing liquid, hand cleaner or laundry liquid – pose a modern-day threat to marine life.

Before the rapid growth of plastic rubbish dumped or washed out to sea was primarily made of natural materials (metal, cloth and paper) which would either sink or biodegrade. Durable, non-environmentally friendly liquid containers can remain on the surface for hundreds of years, posing a real threat to marine birds, turtles, whales and dolphins.

The WA coastline survey and clean-up was conducted by the Kimberley Land Council, Aboriginal rangers, GhostNets Australia, WWF-Australia and researchers from the Australian National University.

Trip coordinator Grace Heathcote described the scenes that confronted participants.

“We visited some of the most beautiful and remote areas of the continent and encountered debris from both Australia and overseas,” Ms Heathcote said.

Pacific Ocean debris

A sea of rubbish twice the size of South Australia is floating in the Pacific Ocean.

The North Pacific Gyre – or Great Pacific Garbage Patch as it has become known – includes toothbrushes, pen lids, bottle caps, toys, bags and bottles.

Keep Australia Beautiful campaigners said while cigarette butts remained the most frequently identified litter item, with 29 butts recorded per 1000 sq m, plastic litter objects contributed the largest amount of volume to the litter stream.

The amount of pollution floating in oceans is anything but environmental-friendly. Liquid waste also contaminates waterways and includes toxic chemicals from non-environmental cleaning products and oil spills from rigs and shipping containers.

Environmentally-aware households and businesses across Australia are recognising the cost of pollution on marine and inland waterways and have taken steps to address the problem.

Non-toxic, biodegradable products free of harsh solvents and algae-causing phosphates are replacing traditional cleaning products in progressive workplaces and homes.

Leading supplier of eco-friendly industrial liquids, Envirosafe Solution, has noticed the switch away from harsh cleaning products in Australian workplaces.

“From councils, corporate offices and inner-city services to remote mining sites there have been significant changes. This has been largely driven by concerns over the environmental and health costs associated with toxic chemicals,” Envirosafe Solutions managing director Murray Simon said.

“Not only do they contribute to significant health-related issues for staff but when improperly disposed of contaminate our soil and waterways. This is not a legacy Australians want to leave for future generations.”

Pollution threatening marine animals starts life as everyday products – reducing the amount of plastics we use and carefully disposing of waste will improve the health of our precious waterways. For more information about eco-friendly cleaning solutions for your business contact Envirosafe Solutions’ on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.perthnow.com.au/news/western-australia/kilos-of-rubbish-litter-was-pristine-coastline/story-e6frg14u-1226123957372

http://www.perthnow.com.au/news/special-features/sea-of-rubbish-threatens-marine-life/story-e6frg19l-1226119838097

Australia has been tipped to become the world’s largest producer and exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG). A special report by the Paris-based International Energy Agency has predicted Australia could triple its LNG production by 2020. Despite its reputation as environmentally friendly, liquefied natural gas has its share of critics.

Australia will enter the ‘golden age of gas’ and become the world’s largest producer by 2020, according to the International Energy Agency.

Global factors, including a showdown in nuclear energy, increased production of natural gas vehicles and China’s increased gas targets, have been tipped to increase demand.

“We think Australia will play a crucial role in the golden age of gas,” IEA chief economist Fatih Birol said.

“By around 2020 – only 10 years from now – Australian production may increase threefold.”

Despite its reputation as environmentally friendly, liquid natural gas has come under attack because of the risks and disruption of key agricultural land posed by conventional gas and coal seam gas mining. Green revolution proponents and farm lobbyists have raised concerns about the impact of gas mining on water and soil quality in agricultural districts.

Despite the contention over whether LNG is eco-friendly, this liquid product has been identified as a major energy source for the future.

Today Australia is ranked among the world’s top exporters of natural gas, behind the small middle-eastern nation Qatar, and close south-east Asian neighbours Indonesia and Malaysia.

Based on the IEA’s price assumptions, Australian gas exports could increase from about $7.2 billion to $36 billion a year by 2020.

Alternative fuels

LNG has become one of the most promising alternative fuels on the market for the transport sector.

Gas company BOC believes LNG offers an economical, low-emissions fuel alternative for the trucking industry.

“One of the biggest challenges facing society is the need to reduce emissions the world over,” BOC South Pacific managing director Colin Isaac said. “This calls for intelligent technologies that balance the need for environmental protection with advancing industrialization and economic development.

“LNG, the cleanest burning fossil fuel, releases up to 20% less greenhouse gases compared to diesel. Another advantage of LNG is its stable price, making it an ideal fuel for transport operators.”

Supporting greener industry

Perth-based environmental cleaning products company Envirosafe Solutions has welcomed new technologies to safeguard Australia’s transport sector, while reducing its environmental impacts.

While understanding the concerns of the green revolution movement, Envirosafe Solutionsrecognises the need to find cleaner fossil fuels and other alternative energy solutions.

Its Extreme Green range of eco-friendly industrial liquids includes truck wash, fuel conditioners and treatments and workshop environmental cleaning products.

Predictions that Australia’s production of LNG could triple in the next decade bring both opportunities and challenges. For more information on other ways to reduce environmental impacts contact Envirosafe Solutions’ on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.news.com.au/business/golden-age-of-gas-to-pipe-in-36bn-a-year-to-australian-economy/story-e6frfm1i-1226070658026#

http://www.primemovermag.com.au/news/article/cleaner-greener-transport

From the establishment of unique wetlands to the restoration of abandoned mine sites, Australian resource companies have led the world in reducing the impact of mining and exploration. These extreme green solutions have been acknowledged through the Golden Gecko awards since 1982.

Geckos are among the last wildlife to return to an area disturbed by mining and have become a symbol of the green revolution being undertaken by the resource sector.

The appropriately-dubbed Golden Gecko awards were launched by the Western Australian government in 1982 and have become highly respected across the community and industry.

Since the inaugural awards, dozens of mining projects have been recognised as environmentally-friendly. Liquid wastewater treatments, mangrove monitoring and mine site rehabilitation are just a few initiatives deemed worthy of the coveted awards.

“Western Australia is recognised throughout the world for its high standard of environmental management,” former WA premier Alan Carpenter said in a written statement for the Golden Gecko Awards.

“The State Government recognises the importance of balancing environmental responsibility with successful development of Western Australia’s mineral and petroleum resources.

“Over the years the Golden Gecko Awards have grown in stature to become the highest environmental accolade achievable in the Western Australian mineral and petroleum industries.

“Environmental management has improved dramatically within the resources industry over the past 15 years and the Golden Gecko Awards have played a major role in progressively lifting standards.”

Since 1992 the face of mining in Western Australia has changed dramatically. That year the State produced 108 million tonnes of iron ore, just half of 2005’s 216 million tonne production.

Improved environmental standards, including the use of eco-friendly industrial liquids to reduce soil and water contamination, have improved the mining sector’s extreme green credentials.

Early award winning projects include:

1982 – Alcoa of Australia won a Golden Gecko award for its vision in establishing a permanent wetland on the Swan Coastal Plan, which has gone on to provide a habitat for more than 101 bird species including 38 waterbird species.

1982 – CRA Exploration won a Golden Gecko award for its liaison with the Aboriginal community by producing instructional videos for residents and working in partnership with the WA government.

1993 – Western Mining Corporation (which was acquired by BHP billiton in 2005) won a Golden Gecko for its rehabilitation of the Kambalda exploration site, which showed environmental leadership.

1993 – BHP Iron Ore received a special minister’s award in recognition of its decision to close and rehabilitate the Goldesworthytownsite, abandoned mine waste dumps and industrial complex. This was done at a time when there was no mandatory requirement for site rehabilitation.

These early awards demonstrate that even 30 years ago the mining sector was making efforts to be eco-friendly. Industrial liquid waste poses a significant threat to groundwater and soil and efforts to restore mining sites improve the recovery of local fauna and flora.

The Golden Gecko awards have played an important part in not only recognising environmental efforts by resources companies but in driving further environmental change. Envirosafe Solutions has been proud to support improved environment outcomes by supplying the sector with environmental cleaning products. For more information on the Perth-supplier’s Extreme Green product range of environmentally-friendly liquids contact 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.dmp.wa.gov.au/goldengecko/downloads/GG_06_Booklet.pdf

Farmingand mining has historically been an uncomfortable mix. Nationals Senate leader Barnaby Joyce and Opposition Leader Tony Abbott stirred debate recently by claiming farmers should have a right to refuse mining access on their properties. They later watered-down their statements but the issue remains heated.

While farmers toil to make a living growing crops above the ground, untapped riches often lie far below the surface.

It’s when miners want to unearth these resources that conflict arises.

The competing interests of landholders and mining companies have received considerable press in recent months.

Opposition Leader Tony Abbott stirred debate when he said farmers should have the right to refuse coal seam gas drillers access to their land.

Coal Seam Gas (CSG) is a newer resource, extracted from coal deposits too deep to be mined, and involves forcing a mix of chemicals, water and sand into the seams to remove the methane. Green revolution proponents claim the frackingprocess in not environmentally friendly. Liquid chemicals used in the process include acids, solvents, biocides and hydrocarbons.

The produced water is a contaminated (not eco-friendly) liquid product which must be carefully disposed of.

Nationals Senate leader Barnaby Joyce has also entered the fray, claimed landholders should be able to refuse mining access if it posed a threat to the health of water aquifers or the viability of prime farming land.

“If it’s going to damage the aquifer, if it’s going to destroy the aquifer, then that’s something not only the landholder should have an interest in but something the nation should have an interest in,” Mr Joyce said.

“If it’s something that’s going to destroy the usage of prime agricultural land then that’s not something not only the landholder should have an interest in but something the nation should have an interest in.”

Legal rights

Minerals on private properties are owned by the Crown and landholders are obliged to give access to their land for exploration and mining, under different state laws enacted over the past 100 years.

Queensland has recently announced draft legislation to restrict mining within 2km of towns.

In NSW, however, leaked draft plans prepared for the State Government outline plans to keep conservation areas, prime farming land, horse breeding and wine-growing regions open to coal seam gas and coalmining.

It outlines a ‘gateway process’ to be applied to test whether mining and petroleum proposals were ‘suitable’.

Competing interests

Both farming and mining have left considerable environmental legacies from land clearing to water and soil contamination. While debate continues over the legal rights of these valuable sectors, environmental activists continue to challenge both industries to embrace the green revolution.

Leading Perth-based environmental cleaning company Envirosafe Solutions has been working with the mining industry to provide non-toxic, eco-friendly industrial liquid cleaners and treatments suitable for mining sites.

These include its Extreme Green range of kitchen and laundry environmental cleaning products (designed for use with hard-water) as well as workshop and site products, including its popular soil wetting agent.

Balancing competing rights between farming and mining involves careful consideration of environmental outcomes. Envirosafe Solutions remains committed to providing eco-friendly liquid products that reduce reliance on toxic chemicals among both sectors. For more information contact 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-08-15/farmers-call-for-mining-negotiation-powers/2840306

http://lockthegate.org.au/csg-facts/csg-factsheet.cfm

http://www.smh.com.au/environment/conservation/farm-gate-open-to-give-miners-access-20111014-1lpad.html

More than a year after its role in the Gulf of Mexico oil spill disaster, mining giant BP has been cleared to apply for new leases to drill offshore. The tragedy killed 11 workers and left a massive environmental cleaning production along the coastline. The decision comes despite early suggestions the US may ban BP from expanding its offshore drilling program.

The US will allow BP to participate in an upcoming offshore oil and gas lease sale.

A high-ranking government regulator has said BP would not be banned from obtaining new leases to drill offshore. The offshore lease sale will be the first since the explosion on the Deepwater Horizon rig, which spilled more than 4 million barrels of oil into the Gulf of Mexico.

“They (BP) don’t have a deeply flawed record offshore,” Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement Michael Bromwich said. “The question is ‘Do you administer the administrative death penalty based on one incident?’ and we’ve concluded that’s not appropriate.”

The Gulf of Mexico disaster – the biggest offshore spill in US history – was a stark reminder that the environmental cost of mining can be extreme. Green commentators have warned the financial penalties for considerable environmental harm are too low. In the case of BP it has been predicted fines from the Gulf of Mexico spill would cost BP no more than $21 million. This is just seven hours of profit according to US Democrat Edward Markey.

“That fine obviously does not even begin to approach the amount needed to be a deterrent against a repeat of this tragedy. That fine is a slap on the wrist.”

Australia has been at the forefront of mining and exploration research and development aimed at making the industry more eco-friendly. Liquid products, gas and mineral mining by-products contribute to pollution.

As the world’s leading coal exporter Australia has been well-positioned to lead the world in sustainable mining practices.

Reducing toxic chemical use in remote sites is an easy step which has been embraced in Australia’s mining regions.

Leading Australian environmental liquids company Envirosafe Solutions has developed a range of products which perform in hard-water conditions.

Its Extreme Green Soil Wetta-Dust Suppressor is an effective, non-toxic wetting agent that can safely be carried in water tankers used for drinking purposes.

Its low-phosphate, eco-friendly industrial liquid and powder laundry products give outstanding results while being compatible with remote camp sewage and wastewater systems.

While US authorities have given BP the green light to push forward with its offshore drilling plans, the lessons from the disaster need to be learned. Envirosafe Solutions has an Extreme Green range of environmentally friendly liquids uniquely designed for mining situations. For more information contact Envirosafe Solutions’ on 1300 88 90 70 or emailinfo@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.climatespectator.com.au/news/bp-will-not-be-banned-offshore-lease-sale-0

http://www.bp.com/sectionbodycopy.do?categoryId=41&contentId=7067505

Going green makes business sense for tourism operators

The perfect Aussie holiday can be relaxing on sun-kissed beaches, exploring rugged countryside or splurging on a city shopping spree. The lure of Australian destinations has made tourism a multi-billion dollar industry. The challenge for operators and travellers is to ensure it’s left unspoiled for the next holiday.

Simply getting to a holiday destination in Australia can be a carbon-burning experience!

Vast distances separate capital cities and air, rail and road travel can be a major part of a holiday’s carbon footprint.

For this reason many discerning travellers are conscious of choosing extreme green travel options where possible.

This may include choosing to holiday closer to home and walking, cycling or using public transport to explore their destination.

Hotels and resorts with eco-credentials (such as reduced energy consumption, recycling programs and the use of environmental cleaning products) have strong appeal.

The Federal Government’s Climate Change Guide (Mitigation and Adaptation Measures for Australian Tourism Operators) claims climate change poses a significant threat to the tourism industry. It may:

• Decrease tourism in areas where fire, cyclone or flooding risks may increase;
• Decrease winter tourism due to reductions in frequency and volume of snow and shorter seasons.

Toxic chemicals

Joining the green revolution involves reducing energy, waste and chemicals. According to the guide, the use of non-environmentally friendly liquids can have significant effects on both the environment and health.

“Chemicals are often overlooked as a contributor to climate change. However, the production, use and disposal of chemicals can have far-reaching effects for both the natural environment and human health.”

Environmentally friendly liquids can be used to replace traditional cleaners in hotels and resorts. Switching to eco-friendly industrial liquids (such as the leading Extreme Green range from Australian supplier Envirosafe Solutions) in the bathroom, kitchen and laundry will not only bring environmental benefits but also boost green credentials and guest relations.

Supply chain

The guide recommends tourism operators develop and adopt a sustainable procurement policy to reduce the amount of greenhouse gas emissions built-in to their purchases.

“Australia is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. If levels of greenhouse gases continue to rise, the resulting climate change could lead to serious impacts on coastal communities, iconic areas such as the Great Barrier Reef, and the Kakadu wetlands, biodiversity, agriculture, water supplies, human health, transport and communications infrastructure.”

The tourism industry contributed $38.9 billion to Australia’s GDP in 2006-07 and a sustainable industry in the future requires a commitment to reduce the impacts of climate change.

Hotel and resort operators making the switch to greener practices are reaping environmental, health and business rewards. For more information on environmental cleaning products for the tourism industry contact Envirosafe Solutions’ on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.ret.gov.au/tourism/Documents/Tourism%20and%20Climate%20Change/2141259A_TOURISM_CLIMATE_CHANGE_Workshop%20guide_v12.pdf

Climate change poses a significant threat to Australia’s tourism industry. The view from a high-rise apartment would be far less appealing knowing the lower floors were under water. Equally ski trips without snow and rivers without water offer very little for the holiday maker. Little wonder many Australian tourism operators are joining the green revolution.

There are tell-tale signs everywhere that tourism operators are going green.

From the little signs in hotel and resort bathrooms advising guests to save water and reuse their towels, to automatic lighting, environmental cleaning products and guest recycling points.

There are plenty of ways to reduce your environmental footprint and help reduce the effects of climate change.

Energy

Consider purchasing energy from a clean energy provider and monitor energy consumption to help identify opportunities to reduce usage.

Simple steps can be effective in reducing energy costs and minimising greenhouse gas emissions, including:

• Installing energy-efficient lighting such as LEDs;
• Installing sensor-lighting in outside areas;
• Using a key card system so energy is only used when rooms are occupied;
• Installing solar hot water systems or solar panels for energy generation;
• Planting trees and garden beds to provide natural shading.

Waste

According to the Federal Government’s Climate Change Guide (Mitigation and Adaptation Measures for Australian Tourism Operators) Australians are the world’s second highest producers of waste. As a nation we throw away an alarming 3.3 million tonnes of food annually – this represents one quarter of the country’s food supply!

Where possible avoid and reduce waste and where necessary recover, reuse, recycle. The following tips may help:

• Purchase food and environmental cleaning products in bulk (and use refillable dispensers for guest amenities such as antibacterial hand wash)
• Use recycled paper products;
• Create prominent recycling drop-off points for guest waste.

Water

Measures to reduce water consumption and preserve water quality (including using non-toxic eco-friendly liquid products) are critical.

In addition to installing low-flow appliances (taps, showerheads, toilets) the following steps can help conserve this precious resource.

• Re-use grey water from the laundry on gardens and reserves. Switching to environmentally friendly liquid laundry products with low phosphate content will ensure grey water is safe for reuse.
• Encourage staff and guests to be aware of their water usage by placing signs in bathrooms, kitchens and laundries.
• Use biodegradable eco-friendly liquid products instead of traditional harsh chemicals.

Chemicals

The guide recommends tourism operators use environmentally-friendly chemicals and “give preference to suppliers who supply environmentally friendly products”. It also suggests:

• Keeping an updated database of hazardous substances;
• Phase out ozone-depleting gases found in older refrigeration and air-conditioning units;
• Using automatic dosing (such as automatic handwash dispensers) to ensure correct amounts of chemicals are used;
• Train staff of safe chemical use and handling.

Australia’s tourism industry is built on a diverse, clean, healthy environment and adopting green practices promises Australia will remain a top tourism destination. For more information on reducing toxic chemicals at tourism venues, contact leading Australian environmental cleaning products company Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.ret.gov.au/tourism/Documents/Tourism%20and%20Climate%20Change/2141259A_TOURISM_CLIMATE_CHANGE_Workshop%20guide_v12.pdf

A new reference guide will further improve environmental mining standards across the globe. It covers everything from mine site rehabilitation to dust suppression and reducing diesel exhaust emissions (Envirosafe Solutions’ eco-friendly liquid products Soil Wetta-Dust Suppressor and Diesel Bug Killer deal specifically with these problems).

A new guide to sustainable mining practices has been launched by Federal Resources and Energy Minister Martin Ferguson.

The booklet A Guide to Leading Practice Sustainable Development in Mining was launched at the Australian Centre for Sustainable Mining Practices in July.

The new guide draws together the major lessons from a series of best practice handbooks first developed in 1995.

“As a world leader in resource development it is fitting that Australia is also at the forefront of developing best practice when it comes to mine sustainability,” Mr Ferguson said.

“The 14 handbooks produced to date have made a practical contribution to improving mining practices both here and around the world with over 100,000 copies being distributed.

“They have been translated and used as reference material in workshops and conferences as far afield as Afghanistan, Botswana, Ghana, Iceland, Iraq, Mongolia, Peru, Tanzania and Zimbabwe.

“This latest publication, as with the earlier handbooks, integrates environmental, economic and social aspects through all phrases of mineral production drawing on expertise from government, industry, academia and non-government organisations.”

The new guide briefly outlines the following key points contained in each of the 14 handbooks:

• Airborne contaminants, noise and vibration which includes the emissions of dust, diesel and silica particulates. Envirosafe Solutions’ Diesel Bug Killer is an eco-friendly liquid product which completely removes water – and oxygen – from fuel sources. This suffocates microscopic contaminants and prevents damage to engine parts while improving fuel efficiency and reducing dangerous exhaust emissions;
• Biodiversity management to protect delicate flora and fauna systems;
• Community engagement and development;
• Cyanide management to minimise health and environment risks in keeping with the International Cyanide Management Code;
• Evaluating performance including detailed environmental impact assessments;
• Hazardous materials management which includes the storage and transportation of chemicals. Each of Envirosafe Solutions’ environmental cleaning products carry a hazard rating on their labels;
• Managing acid and metalliferous drainage to deal with the issue of sulfide oxidation resulting from mining activities;
• Mine closure and completion to reduce the legacy of abandoned mines;
• Mine rehabilitation;
• Risk management;
• Stewardship;
• Tailings management (tailings are mineral waste);
• Water management which can be improved by reducing chemical usage through non-toxic, biodegradable eco-friendly industrial liquids;
• Working with indigenous communities.

The environmental and social legacy from mining can be minimised through careful planning, research and technology.

Australian-developed resources such as the recently released A Guide to Leading Practice Sustainable Development in Mining and booklets are an invaluable resource for mine managers across the globe.

Environmental impacts can be reduced through the use of eco-friendly industrial liquids at mine sites. For more information on Envirosafe Solutions’ Extreme Green mining range call 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://minister.ret.gov.au/MediaCentre/MediaReleases/Pages/GlobalMineSustainability.aspx

http://www.ret.gov.au/resources/Documents/LPSDP/guideLPSD.pdf

Green products have become a staple on supermarket shelves as major brands employ eco-credentialsas a powerful marketing tool. Yet research intoconsumer preferencesand spending is conflicting.

Hot on the heels of the phosphate-free laundry campaign, a new survey has shown consumers prefer to see environmental cleaning products on supermarket shelves.

The May Canstar Blue survey of 2500 Australian consumers revealed supermarket giant Aldi (the first supermarket to take steps to ban phosphate-based laundry products) had the most satisfied laundry powder customers.

The preference for eco-friendly laundry powders extends to environmental practices, with one in four customers also recycling washing water onto the garden.

The campaign to ban phosphate-based household laundry products – replacing them with environmental cleaning products – was a significant success for green revolution lobbyists Do Something. Phosphates are banned from cleaning products in the US and parts of Europe.

Green products hardest hit by US recession

International research though has shown a decline in the sale of green products during the US recession and global financial crisis. In the US sales of environmental cleaning products line Green Works reportedly fell from about $100 million to $60 million a year.

This was more apparent in eco-friendly lines offered by major brands.

“You see disproportionately negative impact from products like Green Works, out of the big blue-chip companies that have tried to layer a green offering on top of their conventional offering, and a relatively better performance from the niche players who remain independent,” said analyst Stephen Powers, of Sanford C. Bernstein and Company. He based his findings on a Bernstein study of monthly sales for almost 4,300 items in 22 categories, from 2006 to 2011

Consumers wary of green prices

A recent study by US cosmetics and skincare company L’Oreal found 43 per cent of those surveyed would only buy environmentally or socially responsible products if they did not cost more. Other green consumerism trends include:

• A perception that the green revolution movement was ‘feminine’, with more women than men choosing environmental cleaning products;
• A preference for mainstream brands with a green label than specialised environmental companies;
• A finding by NBC Universal that environmental consumerism is on the rise. Its poll also found an increasing number of consumers were prepared to boycott a company if it believed it had poor environmental practices;
• Increasing numbers of consumers prefer to buy from environmentally responsible companies.

Research into commercial consumerism gives conflicting results. There seems to be a divide between what consumers say and how they actually spend their money. Part of this could be attributed to a lack of transparency and legitimacy in green credentials.

Leading environmental cleaning products company Envirosafe Solutions knows too well that some labels on environmentally friendly liquids do not live up to the marketing hype.

In a bid to win over consumers, more and more products are boasting green credentials yet fail in both performance and environmental stakes.

Envirosafe Solutions has developed a clear rating system for each of its products, which helps business and industry identify hazard levels in terms of health, environment, transport and storage. Its products are extremely economical and do not contain fillers, meaning they can be diluted and used sparingly for effective results.

Environmental consumerism will not move into the mainstream unless products not only offer legitimate environmental credentials but also outstanding performance – saving business and industry time and money. For real environmental cleaning products with proven results contact Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/ipad/consumers-back-a-cleaner-world/story-fn6bfmgc-1226050055880

http://www.canstarblue.com.au/home-garden/cleaning/laundry-powders/

http://www.environmentalleader.com/2011/04/22/green-consumerism-in-doubt/

The Golden Gecko Awards have reached a 20 year milestone in recognising environmental excellence by Western Australia’s mining and petroleum industries. As one of the last animals to return to an area disturbed by mining, geckos have become a symbol of the green revolution underway in the resource sector.

World-leading technology to monitor environmental impacts on mangroves at Port Hedland has taken out honours in the 2011 Golden Gecko Awards.

Worley Parsons and the Port Hedland Port Authority won this year’s Golden Gecko Award for an innovative approach to measuring sedimentation on mangroves.

Mangrove trees grow near the Port Headland Port (Australia’s largest export port) and provide a nursery for marine life while also stabilising water quality and preventing shoreline erosion. Sediment stirred up by dredging activity smothers their roots.

The new real-time sedimentation scanner developed by Worley Parsons provides data critical to monitoring and reducing sedimentation.

The Golden Gecko commitment

The Golden Gecko Awards ceremony was held at the Pan Pacific Hotel in Perth on Thursday, September 8.

The awards, which were first launched by the WA Department of Mines and Petroleum in 1992, recognise and celebrate a commitment by the resource sector to preserve and restore the natural environment.

In contrast to early mining and exploration (where scant regard was paid to environmental costs), the modern face of mining has drawn on technology and research to reduce impacts. Best environmental practice policies include the use of environmentally friendly liquids to reduce soil and water contamination.

Merit winners

The Golden Gecko Awards also recognised ATCO Gas Australia, supported by KD1, and Compass Groups (Australia) for their extreme green projects.

ATCO Gas Australia and KD1 were able to complete a new gas pipeline with 40 per cent less clearing and no loss of Black Cockatoo habitat trees.

Compass Groups (Australia) reduced waste and greenhouse emissions from food catering at remote sites by creating compost, livestock feed production and bulk food preparation initiatives.

Remote site challenges

One of the challenges faced at remote mining sites is hard water, which can make cleaning in the laundry, kitchen or worksite difficult. Environmental cleaning products offer a solution to using toxic chemicals, reducing soil and water contamination while improving health and safety.

As a leading Perth-based supplier of eco-friendly industrial liquids, Envirosafe Solutions has tailored a range of environmentally friendly liquids for remote mining sites.

Low toxic, biodegradable yet extremely hard-working and fast-acting, its Extreme Greenrange can readily replace almost every other chemical used at mining sites. From low-phosphate laundry powder to non-toxic dust suppressors, there is an environmental solution available.

WA Mines and Petroleum Minister Norman Moore said the commitment by the resource industry, its suppliers and service partners, to achieving greener outcomes was commendable.

“The Golden Gecko’s is an outstanding opportunity to recognise those leading the industry in innovative environmental practices. I congratulate our award winners and certificate recipients.”

For more information on eco-friendly industrial liquids contact Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.dmp.wa.gov.au/goldengecko/index.html

http://www.mediastatements.wa.gov.au/Pages/Default.aspx?ItemId=143912

http://www.abc.net.au/rural/news/content/201109/s3315552.htm

Overfishing of small ‘forage’ fish including sardines, krill and anchovies are threatening larger ocean predators. New research has recommended reduced catches of these species – an important food source for larger fish and marine life – to ensure fisheries remain environmentally sustainable.

Large fish, marine and bird life are finding their food supplies running short.

Fishing of small, forage stocks has had significant effects on larger, predatory species according to a report published in the journal Science.

The report, by the CSIRO’s Dr Tony Smith, drew on international research from Australia, the US, UK, South Africa, France and Peru.

“Forage species such as anchovy, sardine, herring, mackerel and krill often are the main food source for larger predatory fish, marine mammals and seabirds,” Dr Smith said.

“They account for more than 30 per cent of global fisheries production for use directly as human food and indirectly in livestock feeds and demand is rising.”

Dr Smith said some ecological groups had declined by more than 60 per cent due to the effects of forage fishing at current levels.

“The modelling showed that halving fishing rates for the high-impact species would greatly reduce the impact on ecosystems, while still achieving 80 per cent of the maximum sustainable yield.”

The Marine Stewardship Council (which helped fund the research) is revising its guidelines on forage fishing as a result of the study.

Creating a sustainable industry

Sustainable fisheries management is critical for long-term global food security.

Extending the green revolution beyond land involves limiting catch-sizes and closing off sensitive marine areas. Marine reserves are being developed across Australia, with community and industry consultations taking place in Western Australia earlier this year.

Environmental marine products play an important role in sustainable fishing. Eco-friendly industrial liquids (such as the Extreme Green range developed by Perth-based Envirosafe Solutions) reduce the use toxic chemicals at marinas and fishing ports.

The Extreme Green Marine Glass Cleaner was designed and approved for the Australian Navy – it uses a biodegradable formula to remove salt residue from ship glass (or any surface affected by salt spray) and is an effective alternative to traditional chemical cleaners.

Other environmental cleaning products are available to reduce the environmental impact of the fishing and marine industry.

Keeping our oceans healthy

Environment Minister Tony Bourke said Australia had the world’s third largest marine environment to protect.

“We know that Australians need their oceans to be healthy if they are going to keep providing us with fish to eat, a place to fish, provide sustainable tourism opportunities and a place for families to enjoy.

“That’s why (we) are working with communities to establish a network of marine reserves to drive a sustainable future for our marine environment; to ensure our oceans stay healthy and continue to sustain fish stocks.”

Depleting forage fish stocks has created a food shortage for fish, marine and bird species in some ocean areas. Measures to improve fishing sustainability and reduce impacts on the marine environment are critical. For more information eco-friendly liquid marine products contact Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.csiro.au/news/Sustaining-forage-fishing.html

http://www.environment.gov.au/minister/burke/2011/mr20110328a.html

Dump fees have been tipped to rise when the planned carbon tax comes into effect from July 1 next year. The landfill industry claims dump operators will be subject to the $23-a-tonne tax and will be forced to pass it on to users, including councils, businesses and households.

The cost of dumping rubbish is set to increase.

By July next year all those old papers, cardboard boxes, empty containers of glass cleaner or industrial hand cleaner and other corporate waste will cost more to leave at the dump.

If you haven’t done so already, catching up with the green revolution and recycling as much office waste as possible will help avoid being caught up in rising dump fees.

Choosing bulk office products (such as those giant tins of coffee for a start) and concentrated cleaning products (make sure they are environmentally friendly liquids) will save money and give the environment a helping hand.

Each tonne of rubbish send to the dump from July next year could rise by $36, according to dump operators.

TheLandfill Owner’s Association has predicted this cost would be imposed on households through increased council rates. Businesses and individuals which take loads of rubbish direct to the tip will also face increased costs.

Federal Climate Change Minister Greg Combet said landfill waste produced methane gas for up to 20 years. He argued the carbon tax would provide an incentive for landfill sites to reduce gas emissions by capturing methane and turning it into electricity.

The environmental costs of landfill sites include:

• The release of methane, carbon dioxide and other hazardous compounds from organic waste;
• Groundwater and soil contamination from solid landfill waste;
• Land degradation including loss of vegetation and habitat.

Minimising waste involves reducing consumption, recycling and purchasing products in concentrated form and in bulk containers.

The following check-list can help businesses make greener product purchases and reduce waste:

Be informed

Know what you’re buying. There are green alternatives for everything from electricity to office furniture and cleaning chemicals. Buying sustainable products will not only help the environment but will be better for the health and productivity of staff.

Buy the best you can afford

There’s a lot of truth in the saying ‘we’re too poor to buy cheap’. Good quality products generally last longer, are made from more sustainable materials and are better for the environment.

Avoid excess packaging

Excess packaging is just a waste. Buy in bulk if you can – office cleaners (especially eco-friendly liquid products) are available in concentrated form in larger containers. Perth-based environmental cleaning products company Envirosafe Solutions supplies its non-toxic, biodegradable Extreme Green range to the corporate and industrial sector. Its products can be diluted and decanted into smaller, reusable containers and spray bottles to reduce waste.

The big tip for business wanting to avoid rising dump fees is to reduce waste and recycle. Make your next order of office chemicals environmental cleaning products by calling Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.perthnow.com.au/news/m-to-empty-bins-under-a-carbon-tax/story-e6frg12c-1226105698852

http://www.kleenexmums.com.au/sustainability/sustainable-shopping/

It’s a question as murky as dirty washing up water – is it better for the environment to hand wash dishes or stack them in a dishwasher? A UK study has attempted to give a definitive verdict on this perennial musing, but the real answer for the eco-conscious may lie in choosing an environmentally friendly dishwashing liquid or powder.

It’s time to come clean about how we wash our dishes.

Believe it or not, the choice of handwashing or using a dishwasher can produce almost identical energy consumption. Figures from the UK’s Guardian newspaper website show:

• Almost zero carbon emissions are produced if washing dishes by hand in cold water (unfortunately for the green revolution this didn’t leave the plates clean!);
• 540g of carbon emissions were produced washing by hand in warm water (and conserving water usage);
• 770g of carbon emissions were produced in a dishwasher set at 55 degrees;
• 990g of carbon emissions were produced in a dishwasher set at 65 degrees;
• 8000g of carbon emissions were produced washing by hand using lots of hot water.

The carbon figures show that handwashing using a frugal amount of warm water is clearly the best option for the planet. Yet with bacteria surviving in lower temperatures, this method has been shown to leave up to 400 times more germs on the dishes.

If you prefer to leave the hot tap running while you’re washing the dishes you will produce eight times the amount of carbon emissions as running the dishwasher for a full cycle.

Dishwashers have high energy consumption because they heat their own water but stacking the machine properly, avoiding rinsing dishes under hot water first and using aneco settingreduces the environmental footprint.

Other factors to consider include the efficiency of the model of dishwasher – new appliances come with energy and water efficiency ratings.

Water conservation has become a major environmental issue in Australia and greywater recycling systems allow water from the kitchen sink to be pumped on lawns, gardens and reserves.

Choosing biodegradable, non-toxic environmental cleaning products ensures harmful chemicals will not be flushed down the drain.

For busy commercial kitchens green alternatives must deliver top results – eco-friendly liquid dishwashing products n cut through the grease and leave dishes sparkling.

Perth-based Envirosafe Solutions is a leading Australian supplier of environmentally friendly products. Its top-of-the-range green kitchen products include:

• Extreme Green Dishwashing Liquid, a concentrated phosphate-free hand dishwashing liquid which is completely biodegradable and free-rinsing and performs in hot and cold water;
• Extreme Green Commercial Kitchen Degreaser, a non-toxic formula (free of petro-solvents) which dissolves cooking grease, carbon deposits and burnt foodstuffs;
• Extreme Green Dishwasher Liquid, a caustic-free, non-foaming formula ideal for all automatic dishwashing machines. This phosphate-free liquid performs in both hard and soft water, making it idea for use in rural areas;
• Extreme Green Dishwasher Powder, a highly-concentrated detergent suitable for all commercial automatic dishwashers. Biodegradable and low in phosphates, this formula is safe for all septic systems;
• Extreme Green Rinse-Aid, a biodegradable, fast-acting rinse aid which leaves dishes streak-free.

Washing the dishes – whether by hand or using a dishwasher – doesn’t need to leave a dirty smear on the environment. For advice on eco-friendly liquid products for commercial or corporate kitchens contact Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70 or emailinfo@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/green-living-blog/2010/aug/19/carbon-footprints-dishwasher-washing-up