Posted on

Green cleaning products key to workplace safety

A global framework for the classification and labelling of chemicals is being adopted in Australia. It will be phased-in from 2012 and will form part of health and safety protocols within Australian workplaces. Chemical cleaning products are associated with skin and respiratory irritation for workers in cleaning, mechanical, mining and healthcare sectors. In addition the transportation and disposal of these chemicals create significant environmental impacts. Today we look at reducing these risks through the use of low-toxicity, natural-based environmental cleaning products.

Cleaning products can cause skin, eye and respiratory irritation and are an important consideration in health and safety guidelines for Australian workplaces.

Workers in cleaning, healthcare and education sectors as well as mining, industrial and mechanical workplaces are exposed to toxic chemicals on a daily basis.

New labelling and safe handling guidelines are being adopted by SafeWork Australia, which will replace existing separate classifications for hazardous substances and dangerous goods.

The new model for workplace hazardous chemicals will utilise the Globally Harmonised System (GHS) of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals, developed under the auspices of the United Nations. It will outline health and safety regulations and clear guidelines on correct labelling and material safety data sheets (MSDS). Its phased implementation will be rolled out from next year.

Health and environmental risks

Exposure to toxic cleaning products needs to be minimised to protect workers. According to the US EPA website – which promotes the use of eco-friendly cleaning products – the health and environmental risks from cleaning products include:

  • Contamination of wastewater through the rinsing and cleaning of sponges, storage containers containing residual product;
  • Risks to aquatic species and wildlife from wastewater contaminated with chemicals such as alkylphenol ethoxylates – a common surfactant in cleaners – which has been identified as an endocrine (hormone) disrupter;
  • Poor water quality caused by chemicals containing phosphorus or nitrogen;
  • Poor indoor air quality created by the release of volatile organic compounds (VOC) found in cleaning products.
  • Environmental risks associated with the transportation, storage and disposal of commercial cleaning products.

The US EPA states that actual risk from typical workplace exposure was uncertain but that: “Regardless of the expected risk levels… reducing the intrinsic hazard of a product is a desirable pollution prevention objective as part of decisions that also take into account other important product attributes”.

Benefits of ‘Buying Green’

Health and environmental concerns associated with workplace chemicals has led to the development of eco-friendly liquid products. Typical characteristics of environmentally friendly liquids are biodegradability, low toxicity and low volatile organic compounds (VOC) content.

Perth-based environmental cleaning products company Envirosafe Solutions has been supplying Australian workplaces with safe, effective and affordable eco-friendly liquid products for more than 20 years. Envirosafe Solutions’ Extreme Green cleaning alternatives, including its solvent-free degreaser, cater for the cleaning, industrial, mining, healthcare and government sectors. For more information phone 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://safeworkaustralia.gov.au/SafetyInYourWorkplace/HazardousSubstancesAndDangerousGoods/FAQs/Pages/FAQs.aspx

http://www.epa.gov/epp/pubs/cleaning.htm

Posted on

Today’s wastewater tomorrow’s drinking water

An ambitious city-wide water recycling program is being developed for Sydney to combat water shortages. The project aims to reduce demands on drinking water supplies and represents a growing trend towards recycling wastewater for irrigating lawns, parks and vegetation and more contentiously, drinking. Seawater desalination has become another tool to secure water and a new plant will supply drinking water to the city of Adelaide. Today we look at different water initiatives and the role of eco-friendly liquid products in limiting toxins entering wastewater that could be tomorrow’s drinking water.

Sydney has unveiled an ambitious water recycling plan which it claims will see it become Australia’s first city to develop a city-wide recycled water network.

The City of Sydney council has appointed a consortium to develop models for the project, which aims to reduce demands on drinking water supplies. The planning group consists of researchers, engineers and consultants.

Lord mayor Clover Moore said the water plan, part of the global Green Revolution, would provide a model for other Australian cities. “In the longer term our drinking water supplies will come under increasing pressure from a growing population and climate change with hotter and dryer weather predicted over the coming decades.”

The recycled water project would supplement water supplied to apartments, commercial and institutional buildings, which account for 80 percent of water usage in the Sydney area. The water plan will also incorporate projects that reduce pollutants from entering waterways. Eco-friendly liquid products limit toxic chemicals from contaminating wastewater.

Saltwater to freshwater

Further South, a seawater desalination plant is being commissioned at Port Stanvac to supply drinking water to the city of Adelaide. The $1.83 billion project uses reverse osmosis to treat seawater and has been earmarked for completion by December 2012. The first drop of water should be produced by the end of July this year.

The South Australian Government expects capacity at the plant to grow to 100 billion litres by the end of 2012

Perth was the first Australian city to receive desalinated water for large-scale consumption after its Kwinana plant began pumping desalinated seawater in November of 2006. It supplies an estimated 17 percent of the city’s water needs. A seawater deslination plant is being built in Victoria to provide an estimated 150 billion litres of water by the end of this year.

Across Australia government and industry have invested heavily in the treatment of greywater, effluent, stormwater and seawater to secure water resources for the future. Water recycling has also been adopted across other parts of the globe, including Singapore, California, Florida, the United Arab Emirates and Israel.

Key to treating wastewater has been the issue of water quality and the contaminants regularly flushed into water systems, including debris, oils, and chemical pollutants.

Leading Perth-based environmental cleaning products company Envirosafe Solutions has been working with Australian businesses for more than 20 years providing biodegradable eco-friendly industrial liquids.

These products utilise natural cleaning agents, have a low-toxicity rating and are biodegradable. Envirosafe Solutions’ commitment to ecological sustainability supports industry and government efforts to reduce water contamination without sacrificing performance. Its range includes the mining and industrial environmentally friendly liquid Extreme Green Insect and Tar Remover, a fully biodegradable product which is effective even when heavily diluted. For more information phone 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.sydneymedia.com.au/html/4477-sydney-plan-for-australias-first-city-wide-recycled-water-network.asp

http://www.sawater.com.au/NR/rdonlyres/076CFEFE-B2E1-450F-83AE-A19B131649C9/0/MedRelADPDelayJan2011.pdf

http://www.watercorporation.com.au/D/desalination.cfm

http://www.melbournewater.com.au/content/water_recycling/what_is_recycled_water/what_is_recycled_water.asp

Posted on

Recycling wastewater combats water restrictions

New developments in regional and remote areas are utilising wastewater treatment systems to combat water restrictions and meet environmental guidelines. Local council regulations are increasingly stipulating the use of such systems for sewage and greywater for developments outside of common effluent schemes. The Australian Government has also launched a $200 million funding program to encourage industry to implement water recycling initiatives. Today we look at reclaiming and reusing wastewater and the role safe environmental cleaning products play in this process.

Parts of Western Australia experienced their driest winter on record in 2010 and ongoing water restrictions have highlighted the need for water conservation.

Despite floods and cyclones hammering Australia’s east coast in recent months permanent water restrictions also remain in place in Eastern states.

As the driest continent on Earth, Australia’s water resources and recycling initiatives have been high on the political agenda. The Federal Government unveiled a $200 million initiative in 2009 to fund stormwater harvesting and re-use projects. The funding was part of its $12.9 billion Water for the Future package.

Wastewater treatment systems offer solutions for commercial operations unable to tap into common effluent schemes or wanting to recycle water to irrigate lawns and gardens. They are being increasingly used by accommodation venues, function centres, mining camps, schools, factories and wineries, allowing operators to reclaim wastewater.

Wastewater treatment systems employ physical, biological and chemical processes to recycle rainwater, stormwater, greywater, blackwater (containing sewerage), groundwater and industrial water for irrigation of lawns and gardens as stipulated by local government.

New technologies are being developed to test the quality of treated greywater in light of the growing use of wastewater treatment systems. The CSIRO has been working to develop a national standard for treated greywater. This aims to iron out inconsistencies from separate state and territory legislation covering greywater collection, treatment and use. CSIRO Land and Water scientist Melissa Toifl said the protocol could be used to establish a national greywater treatment testing regime. “With this protocol we are anticipating a national approach in the way greywater treatment technologies are tested and regulated… (which could result in) increasing consumer adoption rates of greywater technologies.”

Combined septic and greywater treatment systems often employ aerobic treatment processes and require a delicate balance of bacterial flora. This can be upset by common cleaning chemicals. The use of environmental cleaning products is an important consideration for users of wastewater treatment systems.

Perth-based Envirosafe Solutions provides eco-friendly industrial liquids to industry and government sectors. Its products are low-toxic and biodegradable and include Extreme Green Solvent-Free Degreaser, Sanitiser/Mould Rid, Hard Water – Laundry Liquid, dishwashing liquid, anti-bacterial hand wash, dishwasher powder, disinfectant, dishwasher rinse aid, laundry powder and fabric conditioner.

Envirosafe Solutions’ Extreme Green Waste and Odour Treatment can be used in septic systems, porta-loos, animal enclosures and food preparation areas to eliminate odours and reduce sludge build-up. The Envirosafe Solutions range of laundry products have been specially designed for use in remote locations and are completely safe for hardwater and septic systems while delivering powerful results.

Australia’s scarce water resources offer a challenge for government and industry and wastewater recycling has increasingly been viewed as a partial solution to water restrictions. Envirosafe Solutions commitment to providing eco-friendly industrial liquids supports water recycling initiatives. For more information phone 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.environment.gov.au/water/publications/urban/fs-water-treatment.html

http://www.environment.gov.au/water/policy-programs/urban-water-desalination/stormwater-reuse/index.html

http://www.climatechange.gov.au/minister/previous/wong/2009/media-releases/March/mr20090323.aspx

http://www.csiro.au/news/Greywater-treatment-technologies.html

Posted on

Best practice strategies key to mitigating mining risks

Energy production comes at a great cost to the environment and ultimately human life. BP’s  Gulf of Mexico oil disaster, New Zealand’s Pike River coal mine tragedy and Japan’s nuclear radiation problems are among the latest stark reminders of the risks involved. Yet global energy demands appear unstoppable. The need for best practice in such high-risk sectors is more apparent with each news headline. Today we look at best environmental practice for mining operations, including the use of safe environmental cleaning products such as Envirosafe Solutions Soil Wetta/Dust Suppressor to combat dust issues.

As one of the few developed nations dependent on mining for its economic stability Australia has been at the forefront of developing best environmental practice for mining.

It is not only the world’s leading coal exporter, but also exports its expertise in the areas of mining technology and environmental protection. The value of exports of high-technology mining products and services has been estimated at $2 billion a year. Mining and energy exports currently represent 37% of total domestic exports.

The wealth generated by Australia’s rich energy resources has historically been viewed as mitigating the considerable environmental costs of mining. It was not until the 1950s and 1960s that attitudes began to change and not until the 1990s that key measures were being taken to develop more sustainable mining practices. These included:

  • The publication of information booklets on Best Practice Environmental Management in Mining, produced by government body Environment Australia with the involvement of key stakeholders and experts.
  • The development of the Minerals Industry Code of Practice for Environmental Management, which outlines sustainable development, continual improvement, risk management, rehabilitation, environmental targets and reporting guidelines.

Best environmental practice guidelines cover every aspect of mine management including air emissions, noise and dust control, land rehabilitation, contamination, auditing and water management. It also addresses hazardous materials management, storage and disposal.

Letting the dust settle

The management of dust issues has been made easier by Envirosafe Solutions’ Extreme Green Soil Wetta/Dust Suppressor, designed specifically for Australian mining conditions. The product tackles problems associated with poor water absorption in soils and road bases which cost time, money and precious water resources.

In keeping with the Perth-based eco-friendly industrial liquid company’s commitment to the environment, the Soil Wetta/Dust Suppressor is safe to be used in tankers which also carry drinking water.

Envirosafe Solutions’ supplies a complete range of environmental liquid products for mining operations including its fuel conditioner, Extreme Green Diesel Bug Killer, which improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions and kills diesel bug, helping reduce greenhouse gases and saving money. It also supplies solvent-free degreaser, radiator cleaner and rust converter to name but a few of the innovative products they supply.

Disasters in energy production are a timely reminder of the need to be vigilant in implementing best environmental practice. Leading Australian industrial liquid company Envirosafe Solutions has solutions tailor-made for the mining industry. For more information phone 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

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

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

http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/94713ad445ff1425ca25682000192af2/93136e734ff62aa2ca2569de00271b10

Posted on

Hand soap chemical Triclosan under scrutiny in the US

Frequent hand-washing is an occupational hazard for those in childcare, health and hospitality sectors. These workers share a common complaint: They are forever wiping noses, changing dirty nappies, handling bodily fluids, using chemical cleaners or handling food. One common chemical in hand soaps, triclosan, has come under recent scrutiny. Today we look at the need for safe, gentle antibacterial hand wash products for workers in these critical industries.

US authorities have been reviewing the chemical triclosan – common in antibacterial hand soaps – because of links to hormone dysfunction and antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

The product has come under close scrutiny by the US Environment Protection Agency (EPA) and the US Food and Drugs Administration (FDA). Australian authorities have currently ruled out any investigation into the chemical compound. Responding last year to the US review, the Australian National Industrial Chemicals Notification and Assessment Scheme said its investigations had found triclosan to be safe in small concentrations.

Triclosan is commonly found in antibacterial hand cleaners, cosmetic products and even disposable nappies. The US EPA and FDA are researching the effects of the chemical to better understand its endocrine-related effects, toxicological effects, antimicrobial resistance and to determine safe levels of exposure. The US EPA claims: “Animal studies have shown that triclosan alters hormone regulation. However, data showing effects in animals don’t always predict effects in humans. Other studies in bacteria have raised the possibility that triclosan contributes to making bacteria resistant to antibiotics.”

Despite these concerns effective hand washing is critical to preventing the spread of germs and infection in hospitals, schools, childcare centres, and food and hospitality venues. Research has found:

  • The average person has between two and 10 million bacteria from their fingertips to elbow;
  • Damp hands spread 1000 times more germs than dry hands;
  • Germs can stay alive on hands for up to three hours.

Safe, gentle and effective antibacterial hand wash and industrial hand cleaner are essential products. Perth-based environmental cleaning products company Envirosafe Solutions has a range of hand cleaning products, all of which are triclosan-free. These include its:

  • Its Extreme green Anti-Bacterial Hand Wash: A perfume-free liquid soup which contains skin conditioning agents to guard against dermatitis and is highly-effective in killing germs;
  • Hands First antibacterial instant hand sanitiser: Alcohol-free and dries within 10 seconds. Unlike other hand gels, it will not irritate even the most sensitive skin types and has been designed with the food industry in mind, where hand sanitising is required up to 40 times a day;
  • Extreme Green Liquid Hand Soap: Lightly-perfumed and designed to leave hands soft and supple;
  • Extreme Green Industrial Hand Cleaner: Contains natural orange oil and polymer beads to remove oils, dirt, ink and grease without stripping hands of essential oils, ideally suited to farm and mechanical applications.

The constant demands of hand washing are a concern for Australian workers dealing with germs, chemicals, grease and biological hazards. Envirosafe Solutions range of hand cleaners – including its antibacterial hand wash – have been designed for frequent hand sanitisation. For more information phone 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.smh.com.au/national/no-study-despite-concern-over-common-chemical-20100414-se5o.html

http://www.handhygieneeurope.com/acatalog/Information_facts_and_figures.html

http://healthimpactnews.com/2011/washing-your-hands-too-much-could-destroy-your-life/

Posted on

Fuel treatment reduces black smoke and cuts emissions

Vehicle exhaust fumes pose serious health risks and are a major contributor to Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions. Data collected by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show fuel emissions have increased by nearly 30% during the past 20 years, and today account for more than 15% of Australia’s total greenhouse gases. The weight of health, environmental and cost pressures is turning attention toward innovative technology such as Envirosafe Solutions’ Diesel Bug Killer, aimed at improving fuel efficiency and reducing dangerous emissions.

While the diesel-thirsty transport, mining and construction sectors count the financial costs of high fuel prices, statistics show the environment is increasingly choking under exhaust fumes.

In its most comprehensive inventory of national greenhouse gas emissions, the ABS has found that between 1990 and 2008 emissions from Australia’s transport sector increased by 29%. In 2008 exhaust fumes accounted for 15% of Australia’s total greenhouse gas emissions. Of this, road transport accounted for 86%. ABS figures show that for every litre of diesel used, 2.7kg of carbon dioxide was released, compared to 2.3kg for a litre of petrol.

The race to develop alternate transport fuels could be the key to moving forward in the future. Second generation biofuels, from non-food matter including algaes, have generated considerable interest and offer the promise of a cleaner, more sustainable energy for the future.

Revolutionary fuel conditioner

Fuel additives have also been developed to produce cleaner fuel, increasing fuel efficiency and reducing dangerous exhaust fumes, which contribute to air pollution and health issues. Perth-based environmental cleaning products company Envirosafe Solutions has been supplying its revolutionary Extreme Green Diesel Bug Killer to councils, road transport and marine operators for years. The eco-friendly liquid product completely removes water – and dissolved oxygen – from fuel sources. This process suffocates microscopic contaminant Cladisporium Resinae (‘diesel bug’) and prevents slime from clogging fuel lines and filters and acid from corroding metal engine parts.

Unlike other fuel conditioners on the market, the Extreme Green Diesel Bug Killer does not contain hydrocarbons, acids or strong alkaline agents, as part of Envirosafe Solutions commitment to providing environmentally friendly liquids. It is suitable for cars, trucks, mining and earthmoving vehicles, trucks, buses, agricultural and marine equipment. Its proven benefits include:

  • Improving fuel efficiency;
  • Reducing maintenance issues and expensive downtime;
  • Reducing exhaust emissions;
  • Cleaning engine components;
  • Compatible with petrol, diesel, two stroke, gas oil and heating oil;
  • Economical and biodegradable;
  • Kills Diesel bug.

The way forward

Envirosafe Solutions director Murray Simon said new technologies were critical to supporting mining, construction and transport sectors reduce dangerous fuel emissions.

“Products such as the Extreme Green Diesel Bug Killer offers businesses cost savings by improving fuel efficiency and engine performance. This reduces consumption and produces cleaner emissions, which is critical as Australia moves to reduce its greenhouse emissions.”

Pollution from diesel exhausts is increasingly contributing to haze, smog and greenhouse gases. New technologies such as Envirosafe Solutions Diesel Bug Killer are helping combat the problem while offering cost savings to heavy fuel users including mining, construction and transport industries. For more information phone 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.envirosafesolutions.com.au/productinnerpage.php?cat=14&product=12

http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/Lookup/by%20Subject/1370.0~2010~Chapter~Fuel%20consumption%20and%20emissions%20(4.9.4)

http://www.seaaus.com.au/content/view/383/145/

http://www.csiro.au/science/Diesel-Designs.html

http://www.miningaustralia.com.au/news/fuel-reduces-carbon-emissions

http://www.mcarthurrivermine.com.au/environment_emissions.cfm

http://www.ozfuturefuels.com/explosive-fuels.php

http://www.rta.nsw.gov.au/environment/vehicleemissions/reducingdieselemissions.html

http://www.csiro.au/people/Tom.Beer.html

Posted on

The wonders of Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is more than just a funny-looking plant with spiky leaves. A whole lot more, in fact. If you’ve ever snapped one of those fat, meaty Aloe Vera leaves in half, you’ll have noticed that there’s a clear gel substance inside the plant. To the untrained eye, this gel may appear to be nothing more than gooey plant slime. What you are actually looking at, however, is one of the most dynamic and adaptable natural ingredients found anywhere on Earth.

Aloe vera is perhaps best known for its medicinal and cosmetic properties. The plant’s gel has a soothing and relieving effect on burns, insect bites and blisters. If you’ve ever burnt your finger on the stove and then rushed around frantically searching for the burn cream, you’ll be pleased to know that aloe vera gel is just as effective. On the cosmetic side of things, aloe vera has emerged as a major ingredient in skin care products in recent years. Aloe vera is highly effective at removing and clearing away dead skin cells, rejuvenating the skin and keeping it fresh and smooth.

But it doesn’t stop there, not even close. Studies have suggested there are 75 (!!) active ingredients in Aloe Vera. One of these is a nifty little compound named Saponins. These chemicals form a soapy lather when combined with water – making Aloe Vera the perfect base ingedient for detergents.2 People are quickly discovering that Aloe Vera is the ultimate substitute for many traditional – and hazardous – detergent ingredients. Did we mention that aloe vera is also a dietary supplement? Rich in vitamins B1, B2, B6, and C, as well as many important amino acids. Taken in capsules, aloe vera can aid blood and lymphatic circulation, facilitate digestion and even treat the symptoms of lock jaw and cold sores. Now how many products at your local chemist can do all of that? When you add all of this up, plus a whole lot more, you start to see the big picture: Aloe vera is one of nature’s greatest gifts to humankind.

At Envirosafe Solutions we’re big on natural effective products. To create our products, we take all the ingredients from the earth. So when they eventually return to the earth, that’s exactly where they belong. Aloe Vera is one of the many incredible organic ingredients that we use in our range. Discover for yourself the amazing alternatives that nature has to offer.

Posted on

A Solvent-Free Future

It’s difficult to imagine a world without solvents. They’re everywhere we look. We’ve got solvent chemicals to thank for degreasers, paint thinners, perfumes, nail polish removers and a vast array of commercial cleaning products.

The most commonly used industrial solvents include turpentine, ethanol, acetone and ethyl acetate. Without venturing too deep into the chemistry, a solvent is essentially any liquid substance that is able to dissolve another substance, which is why these chemicals are so useful for cleaning and removing paint and grease. There’s a multibillion dollar global market for solvent-based products, and scarcely an industry on earth that doesn’t make use of them in some way.

Which brings us to the problem. While solvents are a crucial tool for so many industries, they’re also some of the nastiest and most dangerous chemicals around. The health risks associated with solvent exposure are well-documented. Research has linked solvents to nervous system toxicity, respiratory impairment, liver and kidney damage and various types of cancer. Furthermore, most industrial solvents are highly-flammable and must be used with extreme care. These chemicals contribute to countless accidents in the workplace each year.  In short, solvents can spell very bad news for the people who have to work with them.[1]

Solvents don’t do our planet any favours either. They are a major cause of environmental damage, particularly soil contamination. Because solvent chemicals can migrate long distances, an accidental spill of even a small amount can affect large areas of land. A solvent spill can render soil highly dangerous to people and animals.[2]

Doesn’t sound very appealing, does it? Luckily for us – and luckily for the planet – we’re beginning to discover alternative solutions. Solvent-free products are emerging on the market, which perform the same function as traditional solvents without posing a threat to people and the environment. Research into these alternatives is gaining momentum, and we have every reason to be optimistic about a solvent-free future for Australia.

The importance of moving toward solvent-free alternatives cannot be understated. In the 21st century there is a universal need to break away from the hazardous and unsustainable materials of the past. Responsible businesses recognise this. Customers recognise it too, which is why green solutions are the smart business decision. Sticking with the dangerous pollutants of yesteryear will only turn people away.

Envirosafe Solutions strives to provide Australian industry with green options. We believe that a healthy business needs to do its bit for a healthy planet, and we are here to help make it happen. Start by embracing the possibilities of a Solvent-Free future.

[1] http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/solvents/index.html

[2] Hogan, Patmore, Latshaw and Seidman (1973). Computer modelling of pesticide transport in soil for five instrumented watersheds, ESL Inc., Sunnyvale, California

Posted on

The Danger of Using Phosphates

Phosphate chemicals have long been a core ingredient in soaps and detergents. Because of their capacity to mix with both water and fat, phosphates are  highly effective at dislodging fat molecules (oil, grease etc.) and dispersing them in water. If you’ve ever tried washing an oily plate with only water, and then again with water and detergent, you’ll know that the detergent makes all the difference. It’s phosphates and other related chemicals that make this possible.

The problem with phosphates is not so much the chemicals themselves, but the flow-on effects they create once they’ve been disposed of. When phosphates disappear down the drain, their journey is only just beginning. Once these chemicals are released into our waterways, a whole new process begins that can lead to all sorts of problems. Phosphates are rich in the types of nutrients necessary to support marine plant life. This means a glut of phosphate chemicals in the water can spur on huge growth in underwater plant life, radically upsetting the marine ecosystem.[1]

The biggest problem this creates is the growth of poisonous algae blooms. Algae thrive on phosphate nutrients, and certain varieties such as blue-green algae are toxic to humans and potentially very hazardous. Blue-green algae is known to cause nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, and in extreme cases pneumonia and paralysis[2] – not the sort of thing we want in our water supply.

The drama doesn’t end there. Phosphates released into the water gradually build up over time into deposits, which contain high levels of naturally-occurring heavy metals like lead, nickel and chromium. We know well the hazards the these metals pose, particularly to children. Nervous system toxicity, memory impairment and severe brain damage have all been linked to heavy metal exposure.[3] With phosphate deposits in our lakes and rivers, there is a serious risk of heavy metals penetrating into our drinking water supply. The consequences of this are far-reaching and deadly – not even remotely worth the risk if we can avoid it.

All of this boils down to a simple truth: we need reduce our usage of phosphate-based products and find safer alternatives. The Envirosafe Solutions product range is 100% phosphate free, because we understand that the risks involved with using these products simply outweigh the benefits. We are constantly exploring enzyme technology and other alternative ingredients to produce the cleaning results without the negative effects of phosphates. Make sure that your business isn’t contributing to water pollution and public health risks by insisting on phosphate-free soaps and detergents. It’s time to think smarter about the cleaning products we use.

[1] http://www.howstuffworks.com/phosphate-info.htm

[2] http://www.derm.qld.gov.au/factsheets/pdf/water/w3.pdf

[3] http://pureflow.com.au/water-articles/heavy-metal-health-risks.php

Posted on

The Importance of Biodegradable Liquids

‘Biodegradable’ is a term that gets kicked around a lot in environmental discussions. For several years now the biodegradable label has been a major selling point for eco-friendly products. Most people these days would understand the basic concept: biodegradable products are derived from organic materials, which means they can be safely disposed of. These products “degrade” over time through contact with air and water, eventually being absorbed back into the earth. Conversely, non biodegradable products will float around for hundreds of years to come, creating huge landfills and polluting the environment.[1]

The dangers of non biodegradable plastics have been a prominent theme in environmental campaigning for a long time. The images that immediately jump to mind are those of polyethylene shopping bags floating in the ocean and turtles choking on plastic six pack rings. There has been a significant trend in recent years toward reducing the use of these plastics and finding biodegradable alternatives.

Less documented, but no less serious, is the danger posed by non biodegradable liquids. You can’t necessarily see liquid waste, but it certainly exists and is a serious problem. While it’s tempting to think that liquid products simply disappear once they’ve been washed away, in reality the chemical components can linger around in soil and water for years. Many of the chemicals used to make detergents and other cleaning products are inorganic, meaning they cannot be broken down and absorbed into the earth. These substances can remain active for long periods of time. Inorganic chemicals in our rivers and oceans cause serious damage to marine life, poisoning plants and fish.[2]

It’s not something we often think about when we wash our car or scrub the bathroom floor, but the products we use will eventually all wind up in the same place – our waterways. Australia is the driest inhabited continent on Earth, and we should be extremely wary of what we put into our water system. Can we really afford to pollute our most precious resource?

It is therefore imperative that we develop biodegradable alternatives to the pollutant chemicals that are currently used in so many industrial liquids. Envirosafe Solutions is at the forefront of research in this field. We believe that there is always a greener alternative, and we’re constantly exploring the possibilities. Biodegradable liquids are the future of Australia’s environment, and we’re hard at work to make this goal a reality.

[1] . Diaz, E. (2008). Microbial Biodegradation: Genomics and Molecular Biology (1st ed.). Caister      Academic Press

[2] . http://www.derm.qld.gov.au/environmental_management/water/caring_for_our_water/

Posted on

Dust Suppression & Soil Wetting Agents – All Products Are Not The Same!

It’s a dry and dusty country we live in – any Australian could tell you that. Dust is a domestic nuisance that all of us have to live with. But for those in the earthmoving, mining and construction industries, controlling dust is much more than an issue of comfort; it’s a major part of the job that requires professional solutions and attention to detail. Uncontrolled dust on the work site can have expensive and potentially dangerous consequences.

Dust suppression is a water-intensive exercise, and a great balancing act in this drought-stricken country of ours. Water is the most precious resource we have in Australia, and it’s absolutely vital that we use it sparingly. Poor water absorption in soils and road bases costs your business time and money, and it costs the country precious water resources. Using an effective wetting agent ensures that you’re getting the most of your water usage and none is going to waste.

Soil Wetta/Dust Suppressor a new product from the ‘Extreme Green’ range by Envirosafe Solutions, is a highly active, deeply penetrating and extremely versatile wetting agent, designed with economy and efficiency in mind. No two jobs are exactly the same, and we’ve designed Soil Wetta/Dust Suppressor to be effective in all situations. Our product works equally well with all water types – salt, rain and bore. Soil Wetta/Dust Suppressor represents outstanding value for money. At an average cost of only 3.3 cents per square metre, our product is one of the best investments you could make for your business.

Soil Wetta/Dust Suppressor is also a powerful solution for long term agricultural soil wetting. A mere 100ml per 100 litres of water will drastically increase the spread and absorption of water over a full acre of land – perfect for stubborn dry soil.

Soil Wetta/Dust Suppressor is 100% safe to use and non harmful to people. As an example, the same tanks used to cart drinking water can be used to apply Soil Wetta/Dust Suppressor, without any health risks. It’s an extremely powerful product, yet poses no threat to the health of those using it.

Suppressing dust and wetting soil should help the environment as well as your business. There’s no sense in polluting the earth that you work on. At Envirosafe Solutions our goal is help you get the job done without leaving an environmental footprint. Like all Envirosafe products, Soil Wetta/Dust Suppressor is an eco-friendly solution made from non toxic and biodegradable ingredients. For more information on how Envirosafe Solutions can assist you with dust suppression and soil wetting, please contact us on 1300 88 90 70

Posted on

On the Nose? – Not anymore..

Anyone who’s been near a long drop toilet, septic system or holding pond knows that odour control is a serious issue – and this is especially true in the summer months. People who work with these systems need an effective and reliable odour control agent. The problem is that many such products are made from harmful chemicals that pollute our waterways and threaten our health.

A toxic petro-solvent product will certainly get rid of odours – temporarily, at least – but what happens once it’s flushed down the drain? At Envirosafe Solutions we don’t believe in pollution for the sake of cleaning and comfort.

Waste & Odour Treatment from the new ‘Extreme Green’ range doesn’t simply kill odours with harsh chemicals. It’s much more intelligent than that. This product works by a process of fermentation, utilising naturally-occurring compounds within waste. Waste & Odour Treatment stimulates microbiological activity which then attacks sludge and odour. Waste build ups are eaten away naturally by an army of microbes. In effect, Waste & Odour Treatment simply triggers the process, and then sits back and makes nature do all the hard work. Pretty clever, hey?

Waste & Odour Treatment is by no means limited to septic systems and odour control. There are a hundred and one uses for this ingenious product. Waste & Odour Treatment can be used in soiled animals enclosures, as an odour control solution as well as a general floor and wall cleaner.

Waste & Odour Treatment is perfectly safe to use in your kitchen and food preparation areas. Wipe down your bench tops to keep them clean and odour-free, then wash it all away without fear of polluting the water. Waste & Odour Treatment can even be sprayed over compost and manure to accelerate the organic breakdown process.

The real beauty of Waste & Odour Treatment is that it keeps on working even after it’s been flushed away. The ingredients in this product boost microbe activity inside the drain, eating away at blockages and keeping your pipes flowing freely.

Waste & Odour Treatment is further evidence of nature’s impressive cleaning powers. At Envirosafe Solutions we believe that there is a natural alternative to all harsh chemical products – and we are making them available to Australian businesses as fast as we can. Waste and odour management doesn’t need large quantities of toxic chemicals. What it needs is an intelligent product that harnesses the power of nature

For more information on how Envirosafe Solutions can assist you with odour control and waste management, please contact us on 1300 88 90 70.

Posted on

Extreme Green Glue Cleaner

Glue CleanerIn many workplaces, adhesives are the ultimate double-edged sword. Indispensable tools on the one hand, and enormous hassle on the other. Super glue, duct tape, labels, blu-tack . . . where on Earth would we be without these things? It’s just a shame that the usefulness of adhesives is matched by the annoyance involved when it comes time to remove them. How many hours have you spent scrubbing furiously at leftover glue or tape remains?

If the answer is “many”, then you’re no doubt familiar with the vast range of adhesive removal products on the market. There’s an arsenal of cleaning products out there that can reduce your adhesive scrubbing effort.

The problem is that most of these products are full of harsh acids and petro-solvents. They achieve results through brute force. Sure, they’ll strip the adhesives away quick smart. But you’re dealing with nasty toxic chemicals that are a health risk to the operator and a pollution risk to the environment. What’s worse, a bit of leftover glue on your wall, or breathing toxic fumes and then flushing pollutant chemicals down the drain?

Either way, this isn’t a compromise you need to make in your workplace. Extreme Green Glue Cleaner is a far more intelligent approach to adhesive removal. Using only biodegradable ingredients (that’s no petro-solvents, no acids and no alkalis), Extreme Green Glue Cleaner removes adhesives quickly and effectively. It emits no unpleasant odours, poses no health risk to the operator, and washes away safely without risk of environmental damage.

But don’t let the gentle touch fool you. Extreme Green Glue Cleaner gets the job done. The performance of this product is on par with any competitor. This is a rapid-acting cleaner, taking effect in under three minutes. Extreme Green Glue Cleaner is super-versatile, and works on steel, aluminium, glass, concrete, wood and just about any other hard surface you would ever apply adhesives to. Extreme Green Glue Cleaner is a free-rinsing solution – once this product has worked its magic you can simply rinse it all off with water.

Apply Extreme Green Glue Cleaner neat, wait three short minutes, wash it all off. Adhesives removed. Nothing more to it.

There’s beauty in simplicity, that’s what we believe at Envirosafe Solutions. You’ll find that the most effective cleaning solution is often the simplest, and what could be simpler than all-natural ingredients? For more information on how Envirosafe Solutions can assist you with adhesive removal, please contact us on 1300 88 90 70.

Posted on

The Organic Acid Advantage

The word ‘acid’ has many connotations, and for most people probably conjures up images of corroded metal and hazardous chemical symbols. Many would be surprised to realise how many different acids they actually use in their homes and businesses.

Traditionally, inorganic acids (also known as mineral acids) have been used in industrial liquids, particularly cleaners and rust removers. Sulphuric, hydrochloric and nitric acids are some well-known examples. The reason for their popularity and widespread use is obvious: these are highly corrosive substances with powerful cleaning properties. Unfortunately, like so many other industrial chemicals, the effectiveness of mineral acids is matched by the danger of using them.

Mineral acids are carcinogenic to humans, and long-term exposure to these chemicals is potentially fatal. The highly corrosive properties of mineral acids can cause substantial tooth erosion, as well as damage to the delicate capillaries of the lungs. Severe respiratory ailments can develop in people who use mineral acid cleaning products on a regular basis, particularly in aerosol form.[1]

Clearly we should minimise our use of such products, but this presents a dilemma. Acid-based industrial liquids are far too useful and wide-ranging to simply abandon. The realistic solution is to find alternative safe acids to replace dangerous and harmful ones. This is where we begin to explore the other side of the acid equation: organic.

You don’t have to look far to find organic acids. Remember the last time you ate an orange? Citric acid. Yoghurt? That’s lactic acid. The list is endless. We encounter naturally occurring acids every day, many of them inside our own bodies. What we now understand is that many of these natural acids can perform the same cleaning functions as harsh mineral acids. The acidic cleaning effect is the same, but organic acids are much gentler and less corrosive.[2] This equates to less wear and tear on the surfaces being cleaned. There is a growing range of cleaning products that utilise organic acids to the same effect as traditional inorganic products, without any of the associated health risks. No carcinogens, no lung damage, no noxious fumes and odours. Just a gentle all-natural cleaning solution.

The other enormous benefit of organic acids is their biodegradability. Because these acids are naturally occurring and derived from living matter, they will break down in the earth over time without polluting soil and water. When you add all of this up, natural organic acids make a lot of sense. If there is a safer, cleaner alternative to dangerous mineral acids, we have every reason in the world to pursue it. Envirosafe Solutions is working to harness the power of organic acids, because we firmly believe that nature can provide us with all of the cleaning solutions we need.

[1] http://www.inchem.org/documents/icsc/icsc/eics0362.htm

[2] http://www.daff.gov.au/animal-plant-health/aquatic/aquavetplan/operational_procedures_manual_-_decontamination/contents/cleaning_before_disinfection/cleaning_compounds#3.3.2