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Overfishing in Australia

Glass cleaner, Diesel Bug Killer, Anti-Bacterial Hand WashAustralia is the only country-continent capable of massive fish production. However, the situation has significantly changed during the last century, and overfishing has become a serious problem for Australia. Stocks are down, and sustainable practices need to be introduced and considered.

Threats to Stocks

In 2005, 17 species of fish from a total number of 84 were considered to be in danger from overfishing. Given the fact that climate change will have an impact on sea life, affecting their natural habitat, it is hard not to relate one with the other.

Another issue found in Australian waters is related to illegal fishing. Trawlers often fish illegally without any permit, right under the noses of authorities. People fishing illegally do not keep count of mating seasons or fish migration. The Australian Coast Guard also spends a large proportion of time safeguarding against illegal fishing boats in our territories, which come down from Asia to trawl and net for our stocks.

Because of this, the natural balance is disrupted and several species endangered.

Climate change impact

Fish populations in Australia are also affected by climate change which in turn affects such issues as

  • The unequal distribution of nutrients
  • The invasion from exotic species
  • Rising sea levels
  • Currents in warm and cold water

These four elements are very connected to one another an disruptions in one may have a chain effect or reaction in another – all of which throws out the delicate aquatic conditions and balances that foster fish reproduction and spawning.

With the balance thrown out, an ensuing lack of food and lack of a secure place for laying eggs, may ultimately translate into species disappearance. It is estimated that Australia loses 20 species every year, on land as on sea, which could interfere permanently and irreversibly with the natural environment cycle.

Stealing fish

Overfishing, a major concern for all Australians, has been debated within the Federal Parliament on numerous occasions over the past few years. Green groups have even argued that the significant hike in fuel prices may help to curb the waves of overfishing that can occur.

This is because fuel represents 60% of the total capital outlay associated with fishing, and any fuel hikes can significantly affect duration of time out at sea for trawlers and sizeable fishing boats.

Of course multiple measures have been implemented, from increasing coast guard and water police patrols, to utilising new and better devices to spot trawlers. And of course illegal fishermen will come up with new innovative methods to fish, from dynamiting the water to tracking fish movements with radar; Aussie sea life continues to remain endangered, more now than ever before.

But in spite of this, there are companies and organisations attempting to make a real difference.

Envirosafe Solutions is always concerned for the waters surrounding the Australian continent, and that is why the company has developed an Extreme Green Range of products that have less impact than most other counterpart products on the market. If you would like to know more about the Envirosafe Solutions Extreme Green range, please contact 1300 889070 and speak with the sales staff who can assist.

Sources

http://www2.fisheries.com/archive/members/dpauly/chaptersinbooksreports/2006/fuelsubsidiesfisheriesglobally.pdf

http://wwf.panda.org/who_we_are/wwf_offices/australia/environmental_problems_in_australia/

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Mobile Phones and Electromagnetic Radiation

Sanitiser/Mould Rid, Hard Water - Laundry Liquid, Porta-Loo Treatment, Marine Glass CleanerRecently, there has been a lot of talk on the topic of electromagnetic radiation and the impact it may have upon human health.  Some scientists believe that electromagnetic radiation can cause genes to mutate, leading to health issues later down the track in life.  Of course, a few decried this as paranoia and conducted studies that would prove the exact opposite.

While some maintain there is no definite conclusion about EMR, other organisations such as ARPANSA – The Australian Government’s Electromagnetic radiation Complaints Register, consider otherwise. This site actually collects data and reports on possible damages to health because of EMR from mobile phones, microwaves, power-lines, induction heaters and other things.

So, is EMR dangerous or harmless?  Both theories have strong points and the results of the conducted studies sustain each one of them.

What are electromagnetic radiations?

Electromagnetic energy is all around us.  Examples of electromagnetic radiations are given by:

  • Radio waves
  • TV waves
  • Radar waves
  • Heat
  • UV light
  • X-rays
  • Short waves
  • Microwaves
  • Gamma Rays

The most debated electromagnetic radiations are those emitted by the mobile phones.  Those radiations are believed to cause problems such as changes of skin colour, overexcited brain cells, or even cancer.

Sometimes, electromagnetic radiations are compared to chemical radiations within a nuclear reactor.  It is believed that, in time, the effect is similar to radiation poisoning resulted from nuclear residues.

While in Australia, and all around the world mobile communication is increasing, concerns are being expressed about the possible impacts of electromagnetic radiation on the human body.

According to studies, electromagnetic radiation may have a negative effect upon neurotransmitter balance, the cognitive function, and REM sleep pattern and may cause various brain diseases, such as brain tumours or brain cell damage.  However, most reported effects are rather small, as long as the intensity of the radiation remains with a given range.

Biological effects of electromagnetic radiation

Researchers blame many diseases on electromagnetic radiation.  For example, the radiation from GSM cell phones may cause a certain amount of stress to two of the proteins that exist in our skin.  Another study shows that cell phone frequencies have caused damage to the neurons of rats, directly affecting their cortex.

As we know, rats are physiologically similar to humans; the results may be conclusive but like everything else this debate has stirred, there’re opposing points of view on what the rats exhibited.

Also, Italian researchers have found that electromagnetic radiations have a negative influence upon the growth of leukaemia cells.  According to the research, leukaemia cells that were exposed to normal cell phone frequencies for 48 hours, started replicating more aggressively.

According to an additional Israeli study, people who use cell phones are often are more likely to develop a form of cancer that attacks the salivary glands.  Also, brain tumours, miscarriages, and lymphatic cancer have all been linked to electromagnetic radiation.

However, other scientists claim that even those results are accurate the possibility of developing any form of cancer only from using the mobile phone is minimal, since the electromagnetic radiation emitted by this device is not dangerous to anyone.

Be aware of the unseen impact of EMR and use telecommunications devices responsibly.

Envirosafe Solutions supports the responsible use of technology and believes a sustainable way forward for the environment and business can be achieved. Telephone to speak with Envirosafe Solutions about their environmentally friendly Extreme Green products. 1300 889070.

Sources:

http://www.arpansa.gov.au/RadiationProtection/emr/index.cfm
http://www.emwatch.com/EMF%20Effects.htm

http://www.lbl.gov/Science-Articles/Archive/electromagnetic-radiation-study.html

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Hot and Cold

Marine Glass Cleaner, Radiator Cleaner, Dishwashing LiquidWhile heating and cooling concerns may not be as severe as those experienced by our European counterparts, there is no doubt the extremes of the Australian climate in some parts of the nation, means that energy expenditure must be monitored carefully. Summer in Australia can be very, very hot, and winters in the inland regions and in the southern states can be bitingly cold. This of course translates to the possibility of excessive spending and usage of energy. We warm our homes, we cool our homes. We try as best we can, to live comfortably on a continent of extremes and often rugged conditions. Today Envirosafe Solutions considers what each of us can do to minimise our heating and cooling costs. And in so doing, we reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help the planet on its way.

According to the Australian Government, heating and cooling of Australian homes and businesses can account for up to 40% of the total annual energy use. In some cases, it is even more.[1] But there are solutions and there are alternatives. There are various strategies and approaches you can adopt to cut down on your heating and cooling costs and here are just a few:

Passive Design

“Passive design is design that does not require any mechanical heating or cooling. Homes that are passively designed take advantage of natural climate to maintain thermal comfort.” [2] This involves such factors as:

  • Shading
  • Orientation of the build
  • Designing with the climate in mind
  • Utilising passive solar heating

If you are thinking about building a house, think about these factors at the design and planning stage. You may be surprised at how much money you can save in heating bills later on down the track once you are living in your new home.[3]

Other ways you can reduce your heating and cooling costs is to consider the modes of mechanical heating and cooling you use.

Mechanical Heating

If you cannot implement passive heating and cooling, then the next best option may indeed be to choose appropriate heating for your particular situation. This will depend on your individual circumstances. But here are few guidelines that may help you on your way:

  • Gas heaters. These are cheaper to run than electric heaters and produce 1/3 greenhouse gas emissions than the electrical equivalent.
  • Heat pumps or reverse-cycle air conditioners are the most energy efficient when it comes to electric heating
  • Electric in-slab floor heating is the most expensive heating to run.

Mechanical Cooling

There are a number of mechanical cooling options to choose from:

  • Fans. These are the cheapest option on the market and in less extreme areas of Australia may be sufficient to cool homes.
  • Evaporative coolers. These are the preferred choice in areas where there is very low humidity.
  • Air conditioners. These are by far the most damaging to the environment. Filters need to be cleaned regularly and conditioners that are not installed correctly or that are not maintained properly can cost you more.

Make sure to source the cheapest and most environmentally sound heating and cooling options.

For more information concerning environmentally safer solutions for our Australian environment, please contact Envirosafe Solutions. Envirosafe Solutions produces the Extreme Green Range of liquid products for business, the home and for industry. To purchase or enquire please call Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 889070.

[1] http://www.livinggreener.gov.au/energy/heating-cooling

[2] http://yourhome.gov.au/technical/fs41.html

[3] Ibid

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Chain Reaction

Fabric Conditioner, Laundry Powder, Dust SuppressorLike most of you, Envirosafe Solutions has monitored and followed the events of the massive tsunami that hit Japan on the 11th March 2011. Not only were whole communities wiped out, but the tsunami led to a series of chain events and reactions, one of which was the demise and destruction and leaking of the Fukushima Power Plant. Envirosafe Solutions has provided regular updates on the Fukushima situation and today provides new information for you to consider.

On July 10, Japan’s Prime Minister announced that the decommissioning of the crippled Fukushima Plant could well take decades. “It is now expected to take 3, 5 or 10 years to control it and even several decades until the accident settles finally,” he said.[1] The cleanup had also been suspended In June because of high radiation and safety concerns, and this has continually slowed down the cleanup effort.

It will also take several decades before the reactors can be dismantled, which means the whole area is effectively a barren and deserted wasteland for the next twenty to thirty years.

At this stage, the Japanese government is also attempting to develop a long tern revised roadmap for dealing with the site and the issue.

Satellite imagery before and after shots over the Fukushima plant site can now be viewed online, and these show the clear extent of devastation the plant experienced.

Radioactive caesium in Tokyo water

The ABC also reported on July 4 that radioactive caesium has now been found in tap water in Tokyo. With a half life of 30 years, it is extremely toxic. The contaminated water –containing caesium 137 – was found in samples from the Shinjuku ward. While authorities are stating the levels are well below the maximum safety limit, residents in the area are not happy about it.[2]

The same toxic caesium has also impacted various sewage systems in Japan. Sludge from a treatment plant in Fukushima has been detected and radioactivity has also been found in sewage in the nation’s capital. Japanese authorities are now surmising that some of the radioactive material from the stricken Fukushima reactor may have seeped into sewage pipes, eventually accumulating in treatment facilities.

Disaster Rating

The severity rating of the Fukushima disaster was initially downplayed. But in recent weeks, the Fukushima incident has been rescaled to a level 7 which means it is now on par with the disaster level for Chernobyl. Chernobyl is of course the world’s worst ever civilian nuclear accident, which dispersed radioactive material over much of Europe and even beyond. Radiation zones have also now been extended beyond the 20 km exclusion zone because of increased risk.

Envirosafe Solutions is well aware of the dangers that chemicals and toximaterials can pose to the atmosphere, to water supplies and to the environment. That is why we have worked hard to develop a safer alternative to many of the liquid industrial and cleaning products on the market today. All the Envirosafe products come with their own specially devised safety rating and with a comprehensive labelling that allows you to know exactly what you are using. For more information please call one of the Envirosafe Solutions sales team on 1300 889070.

[1] http://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-07-10/Japan-says-plant-clean-up-will-take-decades/2788632

[2] http://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-07-04/radioactive-caesium-found-in-tokyo-tap-water/2782128

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Better Pollution Controls for All

Soil Wetta, Insect & Tar Remover, Solvent-Free DegreaserIf you have ever visited Bakersfield in California, you would know the pollution situation there is dire.1 As I drove through the city on a recent visit, I noticed that the pollution level in Bakersfield was so bad that it was visible to the naked eye in the form of dense grey smog and I made a mental note to look up current pollution control norms in the USA.3 It also led me to wonder about the history of pollution control and regulations in the United States and whether they were leading the way on the issue, given the current state of the global environment. 2

My research on pollution control norms in the USA found that the US government had passed the Clean Air Act back in the 70’s.4 At that time, the new pollution control norms was hailed as one of the most rigorous anti-pollution norms to be enforced in the world and resulted in cars that had cleaner emissions, factories that were less polluting due to the newly mandated and installed air scrubbers and fuels that contained less harmful pollutants. The new pollution control norms meant that Americans could breathe easier – for a while.

As the number of cars, air planes, ships, factories and other contributors to air pollution kept increasing, the ozone levels (principle contributor to smog) in the cities also kept steadily increasing.5 By the 90’s, many American cities were affected by the higher concentrations of ground level ozone and the time had come for pollution control norms that were stronger and tighter.

The Environmental Protection Agency in the USA is the principle authority that is responsible for keeping a check on pollution in America.6 I found out that it had indeed drawn up tighter and more up-to-date pollution control norms that should have taken care of the smog situation that affects as many as half the cities in the USA. Unfortunately, as in most other countries, the new and tighter pollution control norms were stuck somewhere in the files awaiting government approval. The polluting industries it seems have an iron grip at the highest levels in the White House and will not allow the President to receive sufficient support to pass the law enforcing tighter pollution control norms.

Had the new pollution control norms come into force, more investment would have been required for installing up-to-date pollution control equipment and for producing engines that burn fuel through a cleaner process and fuels that are leaner in carbon content. The main opposition stems from a flawed logic that the new pollution control norms would mean increased costs and therefore jobs would be lost. Of course the costs would go up. But it is equally true that new jobs would be created in the manufacture and installation of new anti-pollution equipment and revised monitoring norms.

Instead of waiting for America to lead the world with new pollution control norms, surely this is an opportunity for Australia (and other governments in the world) to take the initiative and accept the mantel of leadership in setting up new pollution control norms.7 Australia can indeed lead the way on this issue.

Telephone Envirosafe Solutions, a wholly Australian company for more information about eco-friendly products that really work. 1300 889070

Sources:

1. Brief on Bakersfield, C.A: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bakersfield,_California

2. pollution level in Bakersfield: http://www.bakersfield.com/news/local/x16510738/Bakersfield-again-No-1-for-particle-pollution

3. Current pollution control norms in the USA: http://www.pollutionissues.com/Ho-Li/Laws-and-Regulations-United-States.html

4. Clean Air Act, USA: http://www.epa.gov/air/caa/

5. Ozone levels and smog: http://www.epa.gov/region1/airquality/oz_prob.html

6. The Environmental Protection Agency in the USA:

http://www.epa.gov/

7. Clean Energy Future initiative: http://www.environment.gov.au/cleanenergyfuture/index.html

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A world covered in garbage: dealing with the waste issue

Environmentally Friendly Liquids , Soil Wetta, Dust SuppressorToday Envirosafe Solutions looks at garbage and what we can do about it.

Garbage continues to remain a very persistent problem all around the world – we just label it as trash.  We may not notice it, or it may not bother us, but rest assured it continues to have an impact on the environment.  In some countries, people go out for picnics but forget to pick up after themselves when they are done.  Plastic and other materials take a very long time to decompose in nature, and when they do, they are highly poisonous for the environment.

Collection programs have been put in place in many countries, however and this has not completely solved the Waste Management problem.  Garbage dumps all over the world are overfilled [a new twist on the term landfill], and new ones are being built constantly.  Unfortunately, many of them are built around cities and the smell and sewage water is highly disturbing for the residents.

Some types of waste cannot even be burnt, because of the toxic fumes that they release.  A solution might be the collection programs.  Recycling is also a good solution in order to diminish the high amounts of waste, to decrease the costs of producing materials such as paper, tin, plastic or glass, and to protect the environment.

Hazardous waste management

In Australia, a pressing problem is hazardous waste management.  According to this legislation in place, mainly the Hazardous Waste Act, companies may deposit or export hazardous waste only when they are in possession of a permit.  The Minister for the Environment and Heritage offers a permit only when the waste is properly managed and must be deposited or processed in a facility that will not allow it to affect the environment.

Examples of hazardous waste include:

  • acids
  • pesticides
  • paints
  • bases
  • oxidizers
  • cyanides
  • flammables
  • organic solvents

These materials have special processing requirements, according to each of their chemical composition.

Recycling and waste management

Any household or commercial business in Australia has specific bins for selective waste collection.  Thus, there are special bins for:

  • Foods
  • Paper
  • Plastics
  • Batteries
  • E-waste
  • Garden waste
  • And others

By law, each household or company must use selective waste collection in order to capitalize the waste.  Companies in Australia produce different kind of bins, according to the type of waste that has to be collected in them.  Waste dumps nowadays have special selection programs in order to separate wastes into categories.

Environmental NGOs and governments promote recycling worldwide.  People need to learn that nature cannot deal with the human produced waste, and that mean needs to protect the environment from poisonous compounds as much as possible.

However, there are situations where people shown no respect for the environment.  For example in Australia in 2010, there has been an increase in the quantity of a E-waste at the beginning of the year, as people were throwing away their old computers, televisions, or other electronic devices that have been replaced during Christmas, regardless of the regulations imposed by the government.

Envirosafe Solutions encourages all Australians to change their attitude to garbage and to increase home and office recycling. It also supplies products that have a comparatively low hazard rating compared to other similar products. Phone Envirosafe Solutions to find out more about their Extreme Green Range. 1300 889070

Sources:

http://australia.gov.au/topics/environment-and-natural-resources/pollution-and-waste-management

http://earthtrends.wri.org/updates/node/314

http://www.tes-amm.com.au/downloads/Press_Release_TESAMM_Jan25.pdf

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Greenhouse Gas – a Radical New Approach

Eco Friendly , Eco Friendly Liquid ProductsGreenhouse gas is a marketable commodity.

Consider this: Carbon dioxide which is a greenhouse gas is used to create pressure as well as fill in the vacuum created during oil extraction.1 Carbon dioxide is used by most oil drilling rigs around the world.2 The annual market for this greenhouse gas from oil companies alone is in the range of 40 million tons per year. Whereas, if carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is to be reduced to pre-industrial era levels, than we need to remove 30 Billion tones of this substance.

Assuming that we do not add any more carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, we would still have enough carbon dioxide reserves in the atmosphere to supply all the world’s oil wells for 900 years! The fact that oil wells will go dry long before that is beside the point. The point is, instead of making carbon dioxide in factors and supplying it to oil industries, if we could just suck it out of the air, it might possibly help us combat the effects of greenhouse gas on global warming.

Geophysicist Klaus Lackner and his students at the Columbia University have done just that. They have created a prototype artificial plant that can suck carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere. Currently the plant is far from perfect but early stages and trial suggest it works.3 Bulk users of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide include dry ice factories, greenhouse farms and algae ponds.

What is now also required is for the government to decree that users of carbon dioxide must buy carbon dioxide that is taken from the atmosphere or extracted from fossil fuels and not that which is created in special factories. If we do this, a whole new industry and thousands of jobs could be created that are also safer and more sustainable.

Eastern Germany has coal fired thermal electric power plants each of which belches out over 36,000 tons of carbon dioxide every day and is currently a major contributor to the greenhouse gas and greenhouse effect.4 Now Swedish utility Vatenfall has started a pilot plant that removes and captures the carbon dioxide from the coal.5 This captured greenhouse gas can be used at any location or process where carbon dioxide is required including filling up of depleted oil wells and gas fields. Currently the pilot plant is of a small capacity but once the technology is perfected, it could be a means to clean up our act at the source.

So while Geophysicist Klaus Lackner and his students at the Columbia University perfect the technology to suck up carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, the Swedish utility Vatenfall can perfect the technology of using coal without having to release greenhouse gas into the atmosphere. This could effectively ensure that carbon dioxide removed from the atmosphere by Klaus Lackner and his students is not replaced by polluting industries.

While there does seem to be a promising market in greenhouse gases, there are still some concerns about using greenhouse gas to fill vacuums in the ground. Primary concern is that the greenhouse gas could leak through the ground and find its way back into the atmosphere6. The oil companies are however quite confident that there is no leakage. Norwegian gas company StatoilHydro for example, has been extracting carbon dioxide from natural gas and pumping it deep below the North Sea. It has been doing so for more than 10 years. Some of course will wonder on how much we can trust oil companies to tell us the truth. But if carbon dioxide can indeed be stored safely below the Earth and we perfect greenhouse gas extraction technologies, then this technology may well be the start of a radical new approach to the greenhouse gas issue.

To obtain environmentally friendly products that are safer for our environment, telephone Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 889070

Sources:

1. Carbon Dioxide the greenhouse gas: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_dioxide_in_Earth’s_atmosphere

2. Use of Carbon Dioxide in enhancing oil recovery: http://www.theoildrum.com/story/2006/2/12/205144/452

3. Carbon Dioxide Capture from air: http://www.physorg.com/news96732819.html

4. Coal fired power plants: http://www.eoearth.org/article/Fossil_fuel_power_plant

5.  Carbon-neutral electricity: http://news.cnet.com/8301-11128_3-10191202-54.html

6.  Carbon storage concerns: http://science.howstuffworks.com/environmental/green-science/carbon-capture4.htm

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From Denmark to India, carbon taxes around the world

Dishwashing Liquid, Glass cleaner, Diesel Bug Killer, Anti-Bacterial Hand WashAs theproposed carbon tax continues to dominate headlines the real question for Australian households and businesses is whether it will reduce greenhouse emissions. Today we take a look around the globe at other countries which have already introduced a carbon tax.

TheFederal Government’s planned carbon tax has divided Australians.

Green revolution proponents believe the tax will provide the impetus for polluters to reduce their carbon emissions by developing new technologies and more sustainable energy sources.

Opponents, including mining giants BPH and Rio Tinto, claim it will reduce their ability to compete for lucrative contracts against overseas companies.

Households and small business fear the cost of rising electricity bills under the new system will add to their financial pressures.

At its core the tax – which will encompass stationary electricity, transport and industrial sectors – aims to put a price on the carbon released into the environment when fossil fuels are burned.

While the Gillard Government has not announced the per tonne price it will set for carbon pollution, it has promised to lock-in the initial price for the first three to five year period. During this period the Government intends to establish an emissions trading scheme to cap total carbon emissions.

A carbon tax has already been introduced in other countries, mainly small European nations but also emerging market India. South Africa, like Australia, is poised to introduce a tax.

  • Finland was the first country to set a price on carbon in 1990 and taxes carbon emissions at 20 Euros per tonne;
  • Sweden introduced a carbon tax in 1991 and between 1990 and 2006 cut its carbon pollution by nine percent;
  • Norway introduced a carbon tax in 1991 and between 1991 and 2008 recorded a significant increase in its emissions;
  • Denmark introduced a carbon tax in 1992. Its industries are taxed according to whether a company employs energy efficiency measures and what it produces. Per capita carbon dioxide emissions in 2005 were 15% lower than in 1990;
  • The Netherlands has a tax on all processed fossil fuels based on energy and carbon contents;
  • Switzerland introduced a carbon incentive tax in 2008. It also has an emissions trading system. The country’s greenhouse gas emissions were stable between 1990 and 2007;
  • Ireland introduced a tax on oil and gas in 2010;
  • Costa Rica introduced a tax in 1997 which raises money to fund the protection of forests.

A quick glance at carbon tax schemes across the globe shows different countries have taken a variety of approaches to taxing emissions and the outcomes for Australia’s proposed carbon tax remain unclear.

Environmental cleaning products firm Envirosafe Solutions has watched the carbon tax debate with interest. Its corporate commitment to green revolution practices includes offsetting its own emissions by donating two per cent of profits to Carbon Neutral.

It supplies eco-friendly industrial liquids such asits Extreme Green fuel conditioners and treatments to heavy emitters including the mining and transport sectors. From hand cleaners to radiator cleaners, its range of environmental cleaning products has been tailored to help industry employ more sustainable practices.

Australia’s proposed carbon tax indicates a commitment toward reducing greenhouse gas pollution. For more sustainable business solutions contact Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.mpe-magazine.com/comment/time-to-act

http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/1492651/at-a-glance-carbon-taxes-around-the-world

http://www.miningweekly.com/article/sa-moves-to-finalise-carbon-tax-this-year-despite-global-loose-ends-2011-03-16-1

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New taxes fail to dampen mining investment

Environmentally Friendly Liquids, Soil WettaFears a looming mining profits tax and carbon tax would deter investment by Australia’s mining sector appear unfounded – at least for the moment. The latest report from the Australian Bureau of Agriculture and Resources, Economics and Sciences (ABARES) shows total expenditure for minerals and energy was $173.5 billion in April.

Australia’s mining boom continues even in the face of mining profits and carbon taxes earmarked for July 2012.

Latest figures from ABARES show record $173.5 billion expenditure from minerals and energy in April, up 31 per cent on October 2010. It represents four times the average yearly expenditure from the past 30 years.

This apparent financial optimism flies it the face of industry concerns that proposed new taxes would stifle investment, according to ABARES acting deputy executive director Terry Sheales.

“The significant increase in planned capital expenditure reflects the mining industry’s confidence in the medium and long term outlook for Australia’s mineral and energy commodities.”

Green revolution wants super profits tax revival

Greens leader Bob Brown has pushed for a revival of the failed super profits mining tax, credited with causing the collapse of former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd’s leadership.

He has argued the new Mineral Resources Rent Tax fails to go far enough and that most mining profits go overseas because foreign ownership. A report commissioned by the Australian Greens, the Foreign Ownership of Australian Mining Profits, has shown that $50 billion from Australia’s mineral resources would go offshore in the next five years.

Industry claims wealth ‘wide-spread’

The view has been disputed by Minerals Council chief Mitch Hooke who said the wealth generated by Australian mining was shared by Australian shareholders and employees and businesses that supplied or service the mining sector.

“Millions of Australians share in the wealth generated by Australian mining operations, either as direct or indirect shareholders of the 750,000 directly engaged employees.”

But while green revolution proponents and industry continue to battle over the mining profits tax and carbon tax – now set at $23 per tonne of carbon emissions – environmental issues remain the most glaring problem for future generations.

Striking a balance

As an environmental cleaning products company Envirosafe Solutions has been proud to supply Australia’s mining sector with eco-friendly liquid solutions to industry needs.

Like many ordinary Australians, the environmentally friendly liquids supplier remains hopeful that politics will drive positive environmental change. This requires a balanced approach – one that neither stifles investment nor indulges corporate heavyweights.

The challenge for mining is to minimise its environmental footprint by employing best practice. The switch to eco-friendly industrial liquids instead of toxic chemicals which pollute soil and waterways is one small but significant step forward. For advice on eco-friendly liquid products for the mining sector contact Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://econews.com.au/news-to-sustain-our-world/mining-tax-doesn%E2%80%99t-deter-capital-expenditure/

http://www.businessspectator.com.au/bs.nsf/Article/Greens-claim-rapid-foreign-takeover-J9UZM?OpenDocument

http://bob-brown.greensmps.org.au/content/media-release/australia%E2%80%99s-foreign-owned-mining-industry-ship-50b-dividends-offshore

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Mining ban sparks environmental debate

Soil Wetta, Insect & Tar Remover, Dust SuppressorA piece of wilderness in the north of South Australiahas been declared out of bounds for mining. The landmark decision to protect Arkaroola from mining has been a costly blow for explorer Marathon Resources but has been applauded by the green revolution.

After years of debate the unique Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary in South Australia’s Flinders Ranges has been declared a mining-free zone.

Premier Mike Rann made the announcement on July 24 and won widespread community support for the environmental stance, although concerns have been raised about potential compensation costs.

Mining company Marathon Resources and its legal team have entered discussions with the State Government after investing heavily in mining exploration in the area. Shares in the junior explorer fell after the mining ban was announced.

Marathon was granted an exploration license for the uranium-rich area this year, after being banned for dumping waste in 2008. It had been preparing to start drilling in what it has described as the ‘fifth-biggest undeveloped uranium deposit in Australia’.

Walking the tightrope

The Arkaroola ban has highlighted the balancing act involved in exploiting the nation’s rich natural resources while protecting vulnerable and unique environments.

Australian mining companies are widely regarded as world-leaders in establishing best practice mining.

The industry has a code of practice governing site restoration, air emissions, contamination, water and hazardous materials management. Switching to eco-friendly industrial liquids instead of harsh chemicals (such as the popular Extreme Green range which includes dust suppressors and non-toxic cleaners) or finding uses for mineral-rich mining waste are significant steps forward.

Yet mining continues to leave a heavy environmental footprint – soil erosion, loss of biodiversity, water contamination from non-eco-friendly liquid products and native vegetation removal are part of the price.

These concerns prompted the decision to protect Arkaroola, which will be excised from the State’s Mining Act and nominated for National Heritage Listing.

The South Australian Chamber of Mines and Energy has labelled the decision short-sighted, claiming it failed to accommodate future technological advances, such as mining without surface disturbance.

Compensation talks continue but for the South Australian community support for the mining ban remains high – it appears the public wants a line to be drawn in the sand. Some areas just shouldn’t be touched.

The way forward lies in developing improved technologies and continuing to implement best practise across Australia’s mining sector. Perth-based environmental cleaning products company Envirosafe Solutions proudly supports the mining sector’s green efforts by supplying the industry with its Extreme Green product range.

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

Sources:

http://www.businessday.com.au/business/arkaroola-mining-ban-a-slap-in-the-face-20110722-1ht1c.html

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/companies/marathon-resources-to-make-its-case-on-arkaroola/story-fn91v9q3-1226102342836

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2011-07-22/arkaroola-wilderness-mining-ban/2805642

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Sustainable farming the new Green Revolution

Soil Wetta, Dust SuppressorPopulation growth will force food production to double over the next 50 years, according to a leading Australian scientist. The cost of high-yield farming – which became widespread during the so-called Green Revolution of the 1960s – has been poor soil quality and water scarcity, highlighting the need for sustainable farming practices in the future.

Food production demands are coming at a heavy environment cost and a new approach is needed to secure sustainable farming in the future.

This is the view of leading agricultural scientist Dr John Williams, a member of the Wentworth Group of Concerned Scientists.

Dr Williams has discussed the threats facing farming in a paper titled Environmental Farming, the New Agriculture. He says that in the past the ‘easy answer’ to increased food production demand was to farm new land. Today, he argues, the land itself has come under threat through urban development, land degradation, water scarcity and poor soil, including low levels of phosphorous.

He has argued the case for science to play a growing role in farming practices, to improve both productivity and sustainability. The willingness of dryland grain farmers to adopt conservation farming such as no-till techniques has been an example of more sustainable farm techniques.

“(This has) improved agronomy through more sophisticated crop rotations and integrated weed and pest management options that rely less on chemicals,” Dr Williams said. “These have all been in response to environmental stresses such as soil erosion, dryland salinity, more frequent drought and declining rainfall generally.”

A more holistic, sustainable approach to farming involves a review of chemical use in both crop and soil management.

Envirosafe Solutions has worked successfully with mining, transport, government and industrial sectors to reduce their reliance on toxic chemicals by switching to eco-friendly industrial liquids.

The Perth-based supplier of environmental cleaning products has a soil agent designed to work with Australia’s arid conditions. The Extreme Green Soil Wetta has been successfully applied in road construction and earthworks but is also suited to agricultural soil wetting applications.

It has been designed to offset problems caused by poor water absorption in soils, which effects crops, costs money and wastes scarce water resources. It will allow farms or plant nurseries to save water and helps break up soil clods. Unlike acid-based soil wetting agents on the market, the Extreme Green Soil Wetta is completely safe to use – tanks used to apply the product can still be used for drinking water purposes!

Extreme Green Soil Wetta can be used with any type of water. For safe, sustainable long term agricultural applications, 100 ml of the product can be diluted with 100 litres of water and spread over one acre.

Science has called for sustainable farming practises to be introduced as population growth drives up demands on food production. This includes reducing reliance on chemicals. For advice on eco-friendly liquid products for farms and nurseries contact Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.wentworthgroup.org/uploads/Williams-CollisACIARarticle.pdf

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Airing your dirty laundry in public shows eco-credentials!

Soil Wetta, Insect & Tar RemoverEco-products help green up your next load of laundry

Throwing a load into the washing machine will leave your sheets or clothes a lot cleaner but the environment a little dirtier. Each load can produce up to 3.3kg of carbon emissions according to UK statistics – but this can be heavily reduced by washing in cold water with eco-friendly laundry products and hanging the washing out to dry.

The modern obsession with cleanliness has a significant impact on the environment. Sheets must be washed weekly, towels get thrown in the dryer to keep them soft and dry in winter, clothes end up in the wash basket daily.

And that’s just around the home. Work sites, hotels, hospitals and aged care facilities with strict hygiene regulations have created a giant laundry industry with many outsourcing their washing.

According to statistics published by the UK Guardian newspaper, the carbon footprint of a humble load of laundry can be as high as 3.3kg of carbon emissions:

  • 0.6kg of carbon produced by washing at 30 degrees and line-drying;
  • 0.7kg of carbon produced by washing at 40 degrees and line-drying;
  • 2.4kg of carbon produced by washing at 40 degrees and tumble-drying in a separate vented dryer;
  • 3.3kg of carbon produced by washing at 60 degrees and drying in a combined washer-dryer.

The figures clearly show that washing in colder temperatures and air-drying – either inside or on an outside line – is significantly better for the environment.

While white sheets and lightly soiled clothes may come out clean in cold water with mild detergent, what about oil and grease stains? Bodily waste and fluids? Some loads undoubtedly need hot water and tough-acting cleaning products to kill germs and viruses and leave the washing clean and reusable.

Eco-friendly liquids and powders are available, but do they have what it takes to produce clean clothes and linen in really tough conditions such as a remote mining site or workshop?

The answer is yes.

Leading environmentally friendly products such as the Extreme Green laundry range – supplied by Australian company Envirosafe Solutions – has been developed with industry in mind.

It works effectively in locations where the mineralisation and calcification of hardwater means many standard commercial laundry powders fail to get hardworking clothes clean. Biodegradable and safe in all septics, the Extreme Green range has a reduced-phospate content to protect waterways.

“We have vastly reduced the phosphate content of the product and re-invented the process with other boosters that are safer to our surroundings to still attain the results that a challenging workplace requires,” Envirosafe Solutions managing director Murray Simon explained.

Next time you throw a load into the machine, think about the environment. Make the switch to effective, safe environmentally friendly laundry products, peg the washing outside to dry, switch to a cooler water setting and make sure you only wash with a full load.

For more information on Envirosafe Solution’s range of environmental cleaning products contact 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/green-living-blog/2010/nov/25/carbon-footprint-load-laundry

http://www.home-energy-savings-advice.com/laundry-tips.html

http://www.tourism.australia.com/en-au/documents/Corporate%20-%20Industry/TACA4047_Water_Fact_Sheet.pdf

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Green business choices reduce costs, boost market share

Extreme Green , Environmentally Friendly LiquidsGoing green and making sustainable business choices has become a public relations winner for big business. But is the corporate green revolution just another cost burden for the small retailer or service provider in Australia? Not according to environmental activist John Dee, who cites research showing sustainability can improve business performance.

Sustainable business decisions can reduce overheads, increase market share and attract high quality staff, according to a leading environmentalist.

Australian of the Year John Dee has pulled together research from Australia and internationally to argue the case for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) to make green business choices (such as switching to environmental cleaning products).

He credits green decisions as reducing overheads by cutting electricity costs and waste. Sustainable organisations are also more attractive to employees, especially those with higher educations and greater social awareness.

Dee claims corporate sustainability allows business to reduce risks from resource price hikes and improve relationships with suppliers and customers. An improved public image gives green businesses an advantage in winning a greater market share.

The argument for business sustainability among SMEs has been made in Dee’s e-book Sustainable Growth, a free resource available on the Just Do Something website.

“SMEs that are proactive on environmental and social issues are attractive to larger companies that have a sustainable procurement policy. If your business is supplying larger companies then there is significant potential in this space to ‘go green’ and benefit through increased market share.”

Short-term cost cutting measures such as using poor quality goods or services could cost a business heavily in terms of its reputation.

“The 1990s (saw) companies exposed as using overseas suppliers who used child labour, cheap labour or unfair working practices. Knowing where the goods and services in your supply chain are coming from is vital if you want to minimise threats to your corporate reputation.”

A study of 800 Australian SMEs (Net Balance/Australian Fieldwork Solutions SME Sustainability Index) across 14 industries showed many companies were reluctant to embrace sustainability.

  • Six out of 10 SMEs did not consider energy efficiency a major concern when it came to saving money;
  • Only one in three SMEs were concerned about waste management;
  • Only 25 per cent of SMEs were concerned about reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Green business choices include reducing energy and resource consumption and switching to environmentally friendly products.

Australian eco-friendly industrial liquid company Envirosafe Solutions not only sells green products to Australian business but has embraced sustainability on a corporate level.

It uses its own environmentally friendly liquids (effective cleaners which are biodegradable, free of toxic chemicals, harsh solvents, strong acids and contain low or no phosphates).

Its commitment to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions includes donating two per cent of profits to Carbon Neutral to offset its energy consumption.

Dee cites Global Footprint Network projections as showing that by 2035 and 2050 humankind will reach a point where it needs two planets to sustain it.

Businesses that fail to embrace sustainability are living on ‘borrowed credit’. For advice on eco-friendly liquid products or Envirosafe Solutions sustainable corporate policies contact 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://about.sensis.com.au/IgnitionSuite/uploads/docs/Sustainable%20Growth%20-%20chapter%201.pdf

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Buy green to cushion carbon tax costs

eco-friendly industrial liquids, Extreme GreenThe business community is bracing for the cost of next year’s $23 per tonne carbon tax. While households and larger polluters will receive financial assistance, small to medium business will not be cushioned against rising costs. Planning ahead, reducing energy use and buying green including environmental cleaning products will help soften the blow.

After much debate the carbon tax details have at last been revealed, giving business the opportunity to take steps to reduce its financial impact.

The latest advice from green business experts is to look beyond the cost of rising power bills and fuel prices.

A holistic policy based around buying green products (such as environmentally friendly liquids) and services will also reduce the impact of the carbon tax.

This corporate philosophy – dubbed sustainable procurement – has been adopted by larger organisations and government bodies but has not yet been embraced by the wider business community.

Green procurement expert and advocate Hugh Wareham has called for business to plan ahead, claiming sustainable purchasing will help avoid rising costs expected under the carbon price. Joining the green revolution will also provide a positive boost to corporate image and consumer confidence.

“The carbon price will impact prices across every sector of manufacturing and business, so companies should also expect increases in the cost of all their input goods and services,” he said in a column for industry news site Environmental Management News.

“While there are some tax breaks for small business, the majority of organisations will have no direct financial assistance to offset the impact of this new tax and will need to seek opportunities for minimising their costs.

“Green purchasing is a key way to reduce an organisation’s exposure to the hidden costs of the carbon price.”

Calculating greenhouse emissions

Greenhouse emissions resulting from the direct use of electricity, gas and fuel can be calculated by referring to fuel and utility bills for consumption rates. Online calculators, such as the Federal Government’s NGERS calculator can help convert energy consumption into emissions. Applying the $23 per tonne carbon emission price will show the increased cost of direct energy use.

This is only part of the picture. The cost of goods and services are also expected to rise as suppliers try to offset their own cost increases. In fact, a study by the National Institute of Economic and Industry Research found that half of all carbon consumed by Victorian households was embodied in goods and services.

Environmentally friendly products

The carbon tax may be a sound impetus for changing to green products and services, but the benefits do not end with financial savings.

Leading environmental cleaning products company Envirosafe Solutions has not only embraced sustainable procurement at a corporate level but has been proud to help industry avoid the environmental and health hazards posed by toxic chemicals.

Its Extreme Green range can be used to replace nearly all industrial and commercial cleaning products. Formulated to reduce toxic chemical build-up and soil and water contamination, these eco-friendly industrial liquids carry an independent safety rating for environmental, health, transport and safety purposes.

For the carbon tax to work people need to change their spending habits and use less energy. Green products such as Envirosafe Solution’s environmental cleaning products are a great way to join the green revolution. For more information contact 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.emn.net.au/

http://www.liberal.org.au/Latest-News/2011/06/28/Leader-of-the-Opposition-Address-to-the-Association-of-Mining-and-Exploration-Companies-Convention.aspx

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From biofuels to eco products – greener skies for aviation industry

Environmental Cleaning Products, Eco Friendly Industrial LiquidAustralia could develop an aviation biofuels industry that was both economically and environmentally sustainable according to a new report by the CSIRO. The study highlights new opportunities for the aviation industry to reduce fossil fuel reliance. Teamed with other environmental initiatives (such as eco-friendly industrial products) it promises a greener way to take to the skies.

An Australia-New Zealand aviation biofuels industry could cut greenhouse emissions by 17 per cent and reduce Australia’s aviation fuel imports by $2 billion over the next 20 years.

The new industry would also generate more than 12,000 jobs.

The CSIRO study paints a promising outlook for aviation at a time when air travel has come under increased scrutiny over carbon emissions. The green revolutionof tomorrow’s aviation industry incorporates new, more aerodynamic aircraft technology.

“This study (the Flight Path to sustainable Aviation) highlights promising options for the aviation industry,” CSIRO project leader and economist Paul Graham.“It also identifies the market, infrastructure and governance changes that will be required for success.

“Through the uptake of sustainable bio-derived jet fuel, together with next generation aircraft and engines, the industry can reduce both its emissions and its reliance on imported fossil fuel.”

While biofuels and aircraft design look set to shape the future of sustainable air-travel, simple changes today also promise to make an environmental difference.

Initiatives such as carbon offset flights have allowed air passengers to reduce their carbon footprint as they travel the globe.

By paying a voluntary charge when booking tickets, passengers on many of Australia’s airlines – including Qantas and Virgin – can contribute to carbon reduction schemes.

Airlines can also employ best environmental practice at airports and hangers to reduce environmental footprint.

A switch to environmental cleaning products can make a big difference to air, soil and water pollution, better protect equipment and improve safety for staff and passengers.

Eco-friendly industrial liquids are biodegradable, safe and minimise the build-up of residual toxicity, which contributes to corrosion on plant and equipment –a significant safety concern for those in charge of aircraft maintenance.

Harsh solvent-based cleaners or products containing fluoride or chlorine can be replaced by environmentally friendly cleaners to reduce environmental impacts.

Leading Australian supplier Envirosafe Solutions has products which can safely and effectively replace most traditional aircraft and airport cleaners.

Its range includes the fully biodegradable and non-toxic Extreme Green Insect and Tar Remover. Safe for use on all painted surfaces and plastic and rubber components, it should be applied diluted at 1:10 parts water and left for five minutes before being wiped off with a clean, dry cloth. It makes an economical all-purpose spray and wipe cleaner when diluted at 1:50 parts water.

Research into sustainable technology – including biofuels – and a simple switch to safe, biodegradable eco-products promises a greener future for Australia’s aviation industry. For advice on eco-friendly aviation liquids contact Envirosafe Solutions on 1300 88 90 70 or email info@evss.com.au.

Sources:

http://www.csiro.au/news/New-sustainable-bio-derived-jet-fuel-industry-is-achievable.html

http://www.mechanicsupport.com/aircraft_cleaning.html

http://www.pacificflyer.com.au/articles/2007-02.htm

http://www.envirosafesolutions.com.au/industries.php?page=industries&id=7