Worst-Case Melt-Through for Fukushima

Extreme Green, Environmental Cleaning Products

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

[3] Ibid.

The Need for Coastal Reform – A 6 Point Plan

In this article, Envirosafe Solutions reports on the work of Bruce Thom, President of the Australian Coastal Society. The information sourced here was originally presented at the National Coast to Coast Conference in Adelaide in 2010.

Extreme Green, Eco Friendly Liquid Products

Bruce Thom is a busy man! He is a member of The Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists, is Emeritus Professor at the University of Sydney and is also President of the Australian Coastal Society. In his role as ACS President, he delivered a simple six point plan, aimed to help Australia move beyond the current actions at federal and state levels, and introduce greater institutional changes that will help us contend with the increasing threat to our coastal livelihoods and lifestyles by way of population growth and climate change.

In National Coastal Reform – 2010 and Beyond[1] Thom relays the sad notion that climate science has in fact become a “combat sport” particularly since the failure of the Copenhagen Climate Conference in 2009. At that point, the tide turned somewhat, and the credibility of climate science was undermined to some extent, leading the way for the vocal onslaught from the climate science skeptics, both nationally and globally.

As a reply to the growing skepticism, his 6 point plan proposes 2 x 3 sub-plans – one of which focuses on the need for climate change driven adaptation initiatives, and the other focusing on coastal adaptation issues.  While he maintains none are necessarily original, they are at least sourced from novel ideas floated by such bodies as the House of Representatives Committee, The Wentworth Group, the Australian Coastal Society and the Sea Change Task Force.[2]

The six points are:

  • A Futures Fund especially reserved to cope with the extreme impacts and tipping points associated with and arising from climate change. (Massive protective works may be needed in future to protect coastal regions and the coastal ribbon developments around Australia.
  • Regionally Based Environmental Accounts developed into a national system – as proposed by The Wentworth Group.[3] These would reinforce consistent measurement of direction and rate of change in natural assets as the new climate era starts to really hit.
  • Legal Reform so that coastal land can be reconsidered as “transient land” as opposed to a fixed entity. A new approach to land tenure, property law and common law rights that is more flexible and able to deal with the dynamic and shifting nature of coastal landforms and regions as climate change hits. (An extreme case of this is currently occurring in low-lying Pacific Islands that are already lost to water-level rises.)
  • Coastal Reforms in the form of an intergovernmental agreement on coastal management and planning. In effect, what is required is a National Coastal Policy that unites state and federal governments in their approach to coastal management issues that impact the future.
  • National Coastal Information System – based on the US model whereby techniques of various coastal and science bodies (Eg. CSIRO, AIMS, Geoscience Australia, various universities) pool and integrate information to underpin a sustained coastal observing system.
  • National Coastal Commission to be based on a national coastal act that has the capacity to advise, act and technically support governments in a nationally consistent and coordinated manner.[4]

The 6 point plan pulls together a number of different ideas in order to propose a blueprint for unified national coastal management in the years to come, particularly as sea-levels begin to rise, and we are impacted increasingly by issues such as receding coastlines, land erosion and threat to property and coastal habitation.  Envirosafe Solutions has long advocated respect for the sea, hence the development of their eco-friendly liquids that are reduced in phosphates and other harsh chemicals that can impact the environment adversely.

Telephone Envirosafe Solutions and speak with one of their friendly sales staff now. You will be supporting green industry practice. Envirosafe Solutions 1300 88 90 70.


[1] http://wentworthgroup.org/uploads/Coastal address in C2C 2010.pdf

[2] Ibid.

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

[4] Thom, B. National Coastal Reform 2010 and Beyondhttp://wentworthgroup.org/uploads/Coastal address in C2C 2010.pdf

Product Focus – Extreme Green Truck Wash

Multi Purpose Lubricant, Fuel Conditioner, Diesel Bug Killer

Trucks get downright dirty. Big trucks and small trucks, mining trucks and road transport vehicles all contend with the Australian dust and dirt and climate on a daily basis. So too does farm machinery as well as the good old Aussie car or 4Wheel drive or bus travelling along a coastal highway or a desert road. After a few days or even just a short distance, the dust and dirt can cake on and stick, and play havoc with visibility, duco and the shiny smooth surface of your much loved work or play vehicle.

Originally developed for machine washing of vehicles, Extreme Green Truck Wash can also be used to hand wash your truck or car, and because it is manufactured from an excellent blend of “high-foaming, grease loving surfactants and emulsifiers that effectively remove dirt, grease and grime,” you can be sure any vehicle you clean with this product will shine and glisten like new.[1]

There are a number of central benefits to Extreme Green Truck Wash. Because it is so highly concentrated, far less than usual is needed for the toughest of washing tasks, and this translates to greater cost-savings for you and your business. Additionally, it is safe to use on all hard metal vehicular surfaces and will not leave any film or streaking on the surface after rinsing. This actually cuts down on work and chamois time, and means that cleaning tasks are performed more quickly than when using lesser quality vehicle wash products.

And of course – as is the case with all the Extreme Green Envirosafe Solutions range, it is 100%  proudly Australian owned, which means that your spent dollars remain within the confines of the Australian economy and help to build a greener and more financially stable and independent nation that provides employment and opportunity to its inhabitants. Envirosafe Solutions is proud of its nation-building approach to business, and sees this as a brand point of difference that cannot be stressed highly enough in this era of frequent and pronounced off-shoring of business and industry.

Like other liquids from the Extreme Green range, Truck Wash is also fully biodegradable and phosphate free. Applied at a dilution ration of 1:50, it can be applied either manually or by pressure washer, foam fun, steam cleaner of car wash system. In the case of extremely encrusted grime and mud, there is no need to source a secondary product. Rather, Truck Wash’s unique formulation means that all that is required is a slight adjustment to dilution ratios so that the liquid concentration is higher in the water. A ration of approximately 1:10 should suffice in such cases. Where the encrustation is maximal and extreme, a “neat application” of Truck Wash – left for 5 to 10 minutes then removed, will shift stubborn encrustations and pave the way for a full surface clean.

If you require an exemplary truck or vehicle washing and cleaning liquid suitable for both light and heavy build-ups, do not hesitate to call Envirosafe Solutions to enquire about their 3 star green rating Truck Wash liquid product. Call an Envirosafe Solutions team member now on 1300 889070.


[1] http://www.envirosafesolutions.com.au/productinnerpage.php?cat=9&product=30

Product Focus- Extreme Green Heavy Duty Alkaline Cleaner/Degreaser

Solvent-Free Degreaser, Sanitiser/Mould Rid

Hard yakka and hard and heavy industry work requires heavy duty cleaning products that can deliver the job they promise. But in today’s ever changing environmentally conscious world, the old cleaning materials comprising harsh and yes – effective – but environmentally brutal solvent based products – are no longer acceptable. New alternatives and new technologies are required, and Envirosafe Solutions has been involved in the development of sound and environmentally safe industrial and home cleaning products that clean effectively without harming our precious environment.

Their Heavy Duty Alkaline Cleaner/Degreaser is an extremely effective and highly active all purpose alkaline cleaner and degreaser, that can be used on hard to shift deposits in all kinds of industry. It is not only suitable for use on vehicle motors and truck machinery, but can also be applied to workshops and factory or industry areas or machinery where grease and grime build ups are a constant workplace reality. In fact, Heavy Duty Alkaline Cleaner/Degreaser can be used on just about all heavily soiled hard surfaces.

Envirosafe Solutions is proud to announce that this product is indeed alkaline based and also contains absolutely no petro-solvents or harsh acids whatsoever. It is also non-toxic and is extremely adaptable to a wide range of applications.

The only alteration to directions when using it in different applications is an alteration to the dilution ratios. For example:

  • Greasy workshop floors- dilute at 1:25 with water
  • Heavy duty machinery- dilute between 1:5 and 1:15 with water
  • Motors and engines- dilute at 1:50 with water
  • Shower and toilet areas- dilute between 1:50 and 1:100 with water
  • Spray and wipe- dilute at 1:50 with water (1:10 for heavy duty)

Heavy Duty Alkaline Cleaner/Degreaser is also offered in a range of packaging options. Large scale industries and business may take the 205 or the 1000 litre options, whereas smaller businesses and those sourcing this product for domestic use may want to purchase the 4 x4litre per carton option. For medium sized businesses or workshop concerns, the 10 and 20 litre packaging options are also suitable.

If you require an effective and extremely versatile alkaline cleaner and degreaser that will not damage or hurt the environment, try sourcing Extreme Green Heavy Duty Alkaline Cleaner/Degreaser.

The Envirosafe Range is tailored to suit Australian conditions and the Envirosafe Solutions development team understands the requirements and needs of our delicate and awe-inspiring continent. That is why the Extreme Green Range adheres to industry best practice when it comes to eco-friendly alternatives to traditional degreasing and cleaning products. To order your Extreme Green Heavy Duty Alkaline Cleaner/Degreaser telephone Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70.

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/

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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