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 Articles

Articles - 2002 | Articles - 2003 | Articles - 2004 | Articles - 2005

Articles 2001

Green fuel easy to cell
Daimler-Chrysler motor company has set up a trial on fuel cell technology in a fleet of city buses. They will be deployed in 11 cities around the world for a period of 2 years and Perth in Western Australia is one of those cities and the only city outside of Europe to have this trial. The trial is planned to start late 2002.
Three buses will be trialled in each city and this project is called NEFLEET and it takes place after the success in 1999 of the NEBUS trial of electric-powered buses. The Daimler-Chrysler company has developed this international initiative to promote alternative, environmentally-friendly fuel technology.
Fuel cells work by bringing about a controlled reaction between hydrogen and oxygen and is the only way known to achieve zero emission of pollutants. Noise pollution is reduced  and emission pollution is eliminated with fuel cell technology. Source: SMH

Byron Bay to Establish Eco Hamlets
The Byron Bay council, NSW, has approved plans for seven eco-hamlets to be developed in the surrounding area. These hamlets will be based on personal involvement in the designing of the homes, running of and maintaining the hamlets, as well as creating social contracts to resolve disputes and build community spirit.
Each village will be designed along the best energy plan, landscape and housing layout, pedestrian movement, water cycle management and include a social contract. They will not be designed around the car as most traditional housing developments are.
They are to based on the plan used in similar European eco-villages in Denmark, Netherlands and Italy, though these will be the first in Australia and will become an example of what may be mainstream housing and community development. Source: SMH

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BP leading in Clean Fuel Project
BP’s pro-active stance on environmental issues is not only well ahead of government regulation, it’s also being followed by other leading resource companies such as Shell, Dupont, Boeing and Toyota.
BP’s focus on greenhouse gas abatement has seen the company curb its own emissions as well as commit to the production of clean fuels.
The $500m Clean Fuels Project at Brisbane’s Bulwer Island refinery is a winning example of how to tackle greenhouse gas emissions.
Within the refinery, an industrial gas plant meets the hydrogen, oxygen and nitrogen needs of the plant and will also supply the wider industrial gas market in southern QLD and northern NSW. And, a 32MW cogeneration plant on site meets the steam and power needs of both the gas plant and the refinery. Later, it’s expected to generate electricity for the Queensland power grid. Source: SEDA's Allies Express.

Sponsorship Opportunity
SEDA is hosting a Government Energy Managers Forum on 6th March 2001. There is an opportunity for sponsorship of this event which will attract around 150 Energy Managers from NSW government.  For more information call Jeffrey Bye on ph. 02 9249 6180. Source: SEDA's Allies Express.

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Spam builds car engines
General Motors in the US has teamed up with the company who gave the world Spam, to reduce pollution. Hormel Foods Corp generate an animal extract called collagen from their processing plant . It is a natural binder and replaces a very toxic chemical previously used with sand in making the moulds for engine blocks at GM. In the past once the sand was used it could not be recycled. Now, by using 'GMBond', it avoids a severe pollution problem. Source: Sydney Weekend Herald 3/02/2001.

Acid waste test developed
CSIRO have developed a small oxygen-monitoring probe which can be used to avoid acid damage to the environment and save millions of dollars per annum. The probes are deployed in a network around mining areas and will give an alert when acid damage is occurring and measure the process of rehabilitation of damaged areas. Source: Sunday Telegraph 11/02/2001.

Honda and Toyota Bring Hybrid Cars to Australia
In the next few weeks, Toyota will provide their petrol-electric hybrid cars to various government departments for trials and go on sale to the public late 2001. The Prius is about the size of a Corolla and seats 5 comfortably.
The Honda Insight will be first hybrid car available in Aust in March and will retail at approximately AU$45,000. This the smaller vehicle and is the most economical to run in the world.
Both have petrol and electric motors and their batteries are recharged as they drive along. The electrical system runs accessories like the air conditioning and the petrol engine cuts in and out as required.
Source: Sunday Telegraph 11/02/2001.

SWERF - a new solution for global warming
A world-first Solid Waste to Electricity Recycling Facility (SWERF) has opened in Wollongong.
The SWERF, built by Brisbane-based company BrightStar Environmental, is a waste management plant which converts household rubbish into ‘green’ electricity, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preventing up to 90% of household waste going to landfill. It’s expected the facility will produce electricity for about 24,000 homes.
Ergon Energy, one of the largest buyers of renewable energy in Australia, will buy 100% of the energy produced by the plant. Source: Allies Express Feb 01 newsletter.

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Passing the Torch
The Sydney 2000 Olympic Games, or the Green Games as they were widely known, set a high environmental standard. But what if the lessons learned and processes used could be successfully applied to future development projects?
The Graduate School of Environment and Macquarie University Sports Association in collaboration with David Chernushenko (Green and Gold Inc.), is planning a major seminar to identify sustainable development success stories and lessons learnt from the Sydney 2000 Games.
The seminar will bring together key individuals from government, private  industry and NGOs. For more information contact Tim Norman (02) 9850 7985. Source: Allies Express Feb 01 newsletter.

Radiation safety move
The Federal Government's radiation health agency has decided to fast track the development of a standard that will limit the exposure of Australians to electromagnetic radiation. It follows on from concerns held about magnetic fields around high-voltage powerlines and the link to leukaemia in children.
Source: Sunday Telegraph 18/3/2001

RMIT Establishes Centre for Global Sustainability
RMIT has established a Centre for Global Sustainability which will establish partnerships with corporations and other organizations to help them become working models of sustainability. tricia.caswell@rmit.edu.au.
Source: EcoSteps newsletter March 2001.

$26 Million Boost to Cogeneration Industry
Two new projects expected to reduce greenhouse emissions by more than three million tonnes over five years have won $26 million in support from the Commonwealth Government’s Greenhouse Gas Abatement Program (GGAP). Energy generator and supplier Origin Energy Power Limited will receive up to $16 million. A further $10 million will be granted to a number of cogeneration projects from the Australian Ecogeneration Association.
Cogeneration is created when a power station uses fuel such as gas, coal or waste vegetation to make electricity, and the process produces heat as a by-product.
"GGAP is demonstrating that greenhouse gas abatement can be achieved at a low cost while generating innovation, wealth and new jobs", Senator Hill said.
Origin Energy Power Limited will develop and manage a portfolio of cogeneration plants across Australia. The project promises greenhouse emission savings of about 2 million tonnes over the years 2008-2012, equivalent to taking 96,000 cars off the road each year. Source: Allies Express, Mar 01 newsletter.

Green Power Grows
To date, increased demand for Green Power has resulted in over 90 new Green Power generators installed and committed nationwide. Given that the program’s aim is to facilitate investment in new renewable generation in Australia, it’s certainly hitting some home runs. Source: Allies, Express Mar 01 newsletter.

SEDA Banksia Awards
SEDA’s Energy Smart Business (ESB) and Solar In Schools programs, are finalists in the Banksia Environmental Awards 2001 to be presented on 2 June 2001 at the National Museum of Australia in Canberra, to celebrate World Environment Day.
The ESB program has 170 business partners who are so far enjoying energy savings of over $11.2 million per year and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by over 194,000 tonnes pa.
The Solar in Schools Program equips schools with their own solar power system and provides them with a Solar Explorer Kit teaching resource to help students learn about the benefits of renewable energy.
To date, the program has helped 18 NSW schools install their own grid-connected solar power system. Each school is saving $250 off their electricity bill each year – money that can be spent on other educational resources.
Allies Express May 01 newsletter.

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Codrington Wind Farm
Australia's biggest wind farm has recently been openned at Codrington near Port Fairy, western Victoria and it is the first non-government wind farm in Australia. It comprises 14 turbines which will produce 14.2 megawatts, providing energy to power about 14,000 homes in the area. Source: The Sun newsletter June 2001.

US Army vehicles go green
The US Army will put into use a new vehicle based on the Chrysler Ram and powered by a hybrid electric-diesel engine with low emission levels. It has been reported that a commercial version of vehicle will soon be available from Chrysler. Source: Sunday Telegraph 26th May 01.

Canberra goes gas
Ten new CNG buses have now been added to the ACTION fleet of two already running in Canberra. The buses will cost the ACT government $4.2 million. Source: Sunday Telegraph 26/5/01.

Ethanol for GM
General Motors's company vehicles will now run on E85 fuel which is 85% ethanol and 15% petrol. This is about to become the fuel of choice for their vehicles in Michigan. They will also be producing a range of Chevy pick-up trucks will be the first off the line as a trial with all light-weight trucks being compatible with this renewable fuel in 2002. Source: Sunday Telegraph 26th May 01.

Giant fuel joint venture in Europe
A joint venture has been formed between Delphi Automotive Systems, the road-ready fuel cell system manufacturers and TotalFinaElf the European, fuel cell giant. They will be collaborating on research and testing of fuel cell technology and fuel reformation. Source: Sunday Telegraph 26/5/01.

Electric car in India
India's first mass-produced Electric car is now available. It is called the Reva and has a 220-volt onboard charger that can be recharged from any outlet. Source: Sunday Telegraph 3rd June 2001.

Van on the charge
Toyota has just released a new fuel cell four-wheel-drive vehicle at its environmental forum recently. It is called the FCHV-4 and is powered by hydrogen stored in high-pressure fuel cell stack with output of 90kW.
Source: Sunday Telegraph 24th June 2001.

Solar Centre opens
BP has openned the largest solar panel manufacturing centre in the Southern Hemisphere. It cost $20 mil and is in Homebush Bay and will employ about 200 to make solar panels for export. Source: SMH Saturday 1st July 2001.

Government in hybrid cars
Mr Bob Debus, Attorney General and Minister for the Environment, has taken to driving a new hybrid Toyota Insight around town. His comment is that it is nippy and sporty so he is enjoying the experience and making a good example. Also other departments are catching on to the idea as EPA staff are planning a fleet of such vehicles beyond the existing small number in use now as a trial. Source: Sunday Telegraph 13th July 2001.

World's Largest Off Shore Wind Farm Opens
In Dec 2000, off the cost of Denmark, the largest off shore wind generation facility was openned. A row of 20 enormous wind turbines can be seen gently spinning above the waves nearly two miles from shore.
Source: The Environment Magazine 18th July 2001.

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Orbital scooter in China
A scooter powered by a two-stroke orbital engine has just won a major environmental award in China. The 50cc Hi-Jeter model has 40% greater fuel economy and better than 80% less emission than existing standards.
Source: Sunday Telegraph 22nd July 2001.

Chambers go green
The Australian Chambers of Commerce and Industry and its State and Territory agencies have signed a 3 yr co-efficiency agreement with the Commonwealth committing them to improve environmental and economic performance. Source: Sunday Telegraph 29th July 2001.

Honda on Hydro
Honda has now opened the first production and refuelling station in Los Angeles, at its research and development centre. Solar power is used to extract hydrogen from water and this is their way of pushing the adoption of hydrogen as the fuel of the future. Source: Sunday Telegraph 5th Aug 2001.

Green Power grows
Around 2,400 Australians signed up to Green Power last month showing that while leaders talk, we can act. Who's choosing genuine renewable energy? Customer numbers soared for retailers in all states in June, with over 1,000 new sign-ups in Victoria.
Green Power sales for 2000-2001 are expected to be over 450 GWh, up from 300 GWh in 1999-2000.
Source: SEDA Allies Newsletter August 2001.

Gas Emission cuts for business
A new user-friendly international greenhouse gas emissions standard for businesses is the first of its kind, and will aid the development of effective strategies for companies to cut emissions.  The new Greenhouse Gas Protocol Initiative (GHG Protocol) has been launched by the WRI and the WBCSD. Edie http://www.edie.net/news/Archive/4835.cfm. Source: Sustainable Business News Oct Newsletter.

GEEIP offers sales opportunity for Allies
The Energy Smart Government program is helping NSW Government agencies improve their energy efficiency to save money on their energy bills and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
One of the major barriers to energy efficiency has been the lack of capital available to many core agencies. Whilst Energy Performance Contracting (EPC) has provided a solution for larger agencies with large energy bills, many agencies still find capital a barrier.
That’s why SEDA has been working with the NSW Treasury to develop the Government Energy Efficiency Investment Program (GEEIP). GEEIP will allow agencies to access finance for small scale ($10k - $500k) investments in energy efficiency in their operations. Source: SEDA Allies Newsletter October 2001

Energy Smart Business in NSW acknowledged
The companies, members of the Energy Smart Business (ESB) program, are part of a state-wide initiative that is good for business and great for the environment. The ESB program, developed and managed by SEDA has been an amazing success, with over 170 businesses saving over $14 million dollars a year on energy bills and cutting greenhouse emissions by over 221,000 tonnes per annum. The total reduction is equivalent to taking 48,571 cars off NSW roads for good. Source: SEDA Allies Newsletter November 2001.

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Cogeneration plant opens
A $100, 000 grant from SEDA has helped Sutherland Shire Council to build a new cogeneration plant at  Sutherland Leisure Centre.
The plant will generate electricity from gas for lighting and general consumption at the leisure centre. Excess heat will be used for heating the water in the pools, a function that formerly required the consumption of electricity through heat pumps.
These measures are expected to annually save council $126,010 in energy costs for at least the first five years and will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 1,400 tonnes per year.
"The plant  is a great example of how being energy wise can be good for the environment while benefiting our organisation and ratepayers through significant cost savings," said the Mayor of Sutherland Shire, Councillor Tracie Sonda.
The plant was installed by Tarong Energy at a cost of $1,008,155. Source: SEDA Allies Newsletter November 2001.

Articles  - 2002

Compromise Reached On Global Warming Treaty
All night negotiations at the United Nations conference on climate change in Marrakech ended in a compromise package, hailed by all parties as paving the way for ratification of the Kyoto protocol to reduce global warming. Source: Financial Times / ENS / BBC / NY Times.

Xerox Saves Millions On Sustainable Energy, Operations
Last year Xerox kept nearly 160 million pounds of materials out of landfills and enabled customers to save more than 800 million kilowatt hours of electricity. Meanwhile, its environmental programs are paying off in hundreds of millions of dollars in cost savings annually. Source: Greenbiz http://www.greenbiz.com/news/news_third.cfm?NewsID=18379

Growing Number Of MBA Programs Back Sustainability
Eighty-two Master Business Association programs worldwide report including social and environmental topics to meet the business challenges of a global marketplace. Source: Greenbiz: http://www.greenbiz.com/news/news_third.cfm?NewsID=18383

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Dream Fuel within reach
Larry Burns of General Motors has outlined the imminent availability and inclusion of fuel cell technology for future production of their vehicles. This is now seen as the cleanest and best alternative power source for passenger vehicles as well as other applications such as commercial and heavy transport.
Further than that, he said he sees this technology being applied to a wide range of situations like homes and small business and even locomotives. The basis is so simple that a 25kW stack - sufficient for the average home - or a number of these stacks of fuel cells can be put to generating power for almost any need. That is how scalable it is and there is no need for different methods of production once the initial development has been put it place.
Production costs are thereby reduced as a well as the pollution from many and varied sources. Source: Sunday Telegraph 27th January 2002.

Congratulations to the following Environs Australia members for their recent achievements!
The Eastern Metropolitan Regional Council (EMRC) won the “Sustainable Environment” award at the 2001 Premiers Award for Excellence in Public Sector Management. Their Eastern Hills Catchment Management Project was recognised as outstanding in the conservation and enhancement of the environment in Western Australia.
This remarkable grassroots project has involved over 2000 volunteers establishing some 200,000 native plants across Perth’s Eastern Hills. Assisted by the 5 regional catchment groups and focussing on bushland protection and water quality management, the project has developed a culture of conservation within both regional institutions/agencies as well as local communities. For further information, contact Mick McCarthy on (08) 9479 4808. Source: Environs Australia - Best five minutes - January 2002.

South Sydney Councils host Environs NSW Office
Environs Australia’s new Sydney office location is now being hosted by South Sydney Councils , a long standing member. This support by the Councils is greatly appreciated, including the efforts of Councillor Jill Lay in the reaching an agreement that will provide benefits for both organisations. The Sydney office will focus on providing and expanding membership services and products for NSW councils. Contact Paul Bateson, NSW Program Manager on (02) 9228 5336 or email pbateson@environs.org.au. Source: Environs Australia - Best five minutes - January 2002.

Electronics Recycling Pilot
EcoRecycle Victoria, in conjunction with major electronics suppliers, has recently started a pilot in end-of-life recovery of TV's, VCR's and other electronic equipment. Mitsubishi Electric, LG Electronics, NEC Aust, Panasonic, Hitachi, Sony and others are all participating. Source: ReNew Jan-March 2002 issue.

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RRPGP interest growing
Recently a number of new programmes have been approved under the Renewable Energy Power Generation Programme, including ATSIC Indigenous Community Support Project for $8m, Qld Working Property Rebate Scheme for $8m, Renewable Energy Diesel Replacement Scheme for $22.3m, Northern Territory's Renewable Energy Rebate Programme for $38.2m and WA's RAPS Programme for $18m. See www.greenhouse.gov.au/renewable/rrpg/index/html. Source: ReNew Jan-March 2002 issue.

Wind projects planned, approved and openned
Conditional approval has been given to Primergy and Wind Prospect's for a 40-50MW wind farm at Green Point south of Mt Gambier, South Aust. Another 55-70MW using 35 turbines has been planned for the Eyre Peninsula.
Late last year Pacific Hydro received approval for its 50 turbine 75MW project at Ararat, Vic, as well as winning the Expression Of Interest for a wind project on the Fremantle Dock site in WA.
Hydro Tasmania's 130MW Woolnorth wind farm and 46 kilometres of new 110kV transmission line gained final approval in Sept 01 and the 10.5MW Stage1 is due to be under construction before beginning of 02.
Stanwell's 22MW Toora wind farm is currently under construction by Vesta and Transfield Aust after receiving final approval. There are several other projects on the drawing board in SA, WA and Qld.
Western Power has openned its 21.6MW wind farm at Albany late 01 with others planned for sites along the WA coast. The Albany site runs 12 turbines and cost $45m, with a saving of 77,000 tons of greenhouse gas emission pa. Source: ReNew Jan-March 2002 issue.

Hemp finds growing markets
Some European and UK car manufacturers are seeing increasing value in using hemp fibre in their vehicles for the purpose of heat and sound insulation. Farmers of Industrial hemp as it is known, still require a licence to grow it in UK though its use is seen more and more as a benefit to the environment and wildlife, as well as giving a boost to the embattled farming industry in Britain. Car manufacturers are currently using about 10,000 tonnes a year of plant fibre, including Hempcore, and BMW with Mercedes will be increasing their demand.
Another use for hemp has been found in the construction industry and Suffolk Housing Council recently completed 2 houses using hemp in combination with lime. This hemp/lime mix is used in the floor and walls - brick or rammed - and creates good waterproofing and insulation which reduces energy consumption overall. Source: Sydney Morning Herald Weekend 9th March 2002.

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Britain commits to increase in wind energy production
After a decade of delaying the issue, British Government now aims to produce 10% of total energy from renewable sources by 2010 and rasing that to 20% by 2020. from only a few companies involved in wind energy production 10 years ago, there are now 180 companies, including several leading power utilities. Wind production will be increased from 475mW to 675mW, powering about 550,000 homes.
Offshore wind farms are also a current focus with up to 500mW planned from 150 metre turbines positioned in the windiest parts of seas surrounding Britain. Source: Sydney Morning Herald Weekend 9th March 2002.

Greening of private equity investment
Investing in green projects is now perceived as a very rewarding way to maintain returns on personal and company investment portfolios.
Because there is now legislation requiring more renewable energy to be produced, cleaner production processes and practices such as managing waste streams more efficiently, companies are adding more of this type of projects.
The market is now being provided with more energy efficient, biodegradable and environmentally responsible products.
Growing awareness of environmental efficiency as an indicator of  financial success, private equity funds will focus more on such investment opportunities and individuals will have greater choice. in consumer products that are sustainable. Source: Sydney Morning Herald Weekend 24th March 2002.

Recycled Roads
Local government is getting the idea. A recently resurfacing of a local road in the Blue Mountains, NSW, Australia, was carried out using the recycled material from previous road works on the Great Western Highway.
Approximately 5,000 tonnes of recycled asphalt material and another 2,700 tonnes of screened material was used, all of which would have gone to landfill only months before. This recycling exercise demonstrated the co-operation between numerous government authorities as well as the council's commitment to a sustainable future. Further more, this saved the ratepayers over $50,000. Source: Blue Mountains Gazette 5th April 2002

Ethical issues lure investors
Australians are more and more turning to consider ethical matters and two thirds have stated that they find them relevant and worth investing in with their superannuation. Some of the largest super funds have also taken this view and responded by creating new options for the $500 billion in funds across Australia. This sector is observed as growing with more options coming online.
In other world markets, it is also receiving attention and now 13% of all investment is in screened while only 1% in the local market is recorded to date. The Positive Screen chooses companies with proactive approach to socially and environmentally  responsible issues, or corporate governance. The Negative screen excludes companies that are deemed exploitative while Best of Sector chooses those companies with best practice within any industry. Source: Sydney Morning Herald Weekend 14th April 2002.

Bank takes a big step into Ethical investment
Westpac Bank has just purchased Rothschild and this now makes it the owner of the 3rd largest ethical funds manager in Australia with more than $235 million in ethical funds under management. This is made up of the $136 million of Rothschild and the $98 million of Westpac's screened investments. Source: Sydney Morning Herald Weekend 28th April 2002.

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Perpetual gets ethical
Perpetual Investments has launched a socially responsible investment fund, which fits well with its  trustee heritage and ethical image in the charity trusts business. This new SRI fund is a wholesale fund and only available to investors with $50,000 or more to invest. Screening is carried out on a positive and negative basis with concern about the management and business quality as well as debt levels. Source: Sydney Morning Herald Weekend Edition 4th May 2002.

Ethical investment gains credibility
Socially Responsible Investment has come a long way since when it would have been only for hippies and greenies. The Australian market has grown to be valued at about $1.3bn in SRI managed funds alone.
Now, mainstream fund managers with SRI products include Westpac, Rothschild, Perpetual and AMP Henderson. As a result, major research houses are taking notice and reviewing these products. This will facilitate the greater acceptance by the investing public of SRI in general.
This research has now shown that the Australian SRI median outperformed the ASX 200 by 2.2 percent and showed the lowest volatility of the group. Source: Sydney Morning Herald Weekend Edition 4th May 2002.

Slicker Oilers
To indicate the potential of diesel engines, Mercedes Benz is putting its C Class in the hands of AMG  - the hot-rodding tuning arm - for special treatment. The C30D will be on sale in Germany late 2002. They are in favour of the cleaner, low-sulphur fuel for their special vehicles now. Source Sunday Telegraph 23 June 2002

Also in the oiler vein, Mitsubishi is manufacturing a diesel turbo Prajero for the Australian market which will run on both the low and high-sulphur diesel fuels available here. Source Eco Futures, July 2002

McCleaning in local village
 McDonalds in the Blue Mountains village of Blaxland is helping to combat the problem of pollution often caused by their products. They are providing a Litter Patrol to clean up the streets 7 days a week in the surrounding shopping district. Source Blue Mountains Gazette, 19th June 2002. 

Cutting Pollution
Sate funding with be put to assist local businesses in the west of Sydney, the fastest growing centre in Australia, to form clusters and work on ways to reduce polluting practices and waste. The Industry Sustainability Initiative will $190,000 to this project, according to Mr Bob Debus, Minister for the Environment. Source Blue Mountains Gazette 19th June 2002

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Hydrogen Car
A fuel cell-powered vehicle - the NECAR - 5 has completed a trip East to West across the USA for the first time. The Daimler-Chrysler uses an on-board reformer to extract hydrogen from liquid methane. Source Sunday Telegraph 7th July 2002.

Safe Paint
Chrysler and DuPont has co ventured on a 'green' paint for cars. It is claimed to emit at least 25% less GHG during the painting process and improves quality as well. Source Sunday Telegraph 7th July 2002.

Recycling Focus
A major focus on recycling is happening in Japanese car industry as they plan to implement new tough laws by 2004. Vehicles are already being developed to comply with Nissan putting out a small sedan which is said to be 95% recyclable now. Source Sunday Telegraph 13th July 2002

Local design wins international acclaim
An Australian design student has won an international competition with a simple car design for indigenous people in remote outback areas. Powered by a fuel cell, it can also provide power for the community as well as its own needs for transport.
The award is from Pforzheim University in Germany and is judged by leading design chiefs from mainstream automobile manufacturers. The design is aimed at meeting the needs of tribal groups with strong community bonds and when several vehicles are locked together they convert into a temporary shelter or meeting place.
The headlights are mounted on wing mirrors and can pivot to light the interior or surrounding areas. The next step is to gain endorsement from the tribal leaders. The vehicles may also find a ready demand from low income-families or students. Source Sydney Morning Herald 19th July 2002

Study of barriers to Biofuels
The Federal government announce a $5million study of market barriers to the increased use of biofuels in the transport industry. This is part of fulfilling the 2001 election promise of increasing consumption to 350 million litres by 2010.
WA Dept of planning and infrastructure also announce a plan to trial the use of biodiesel in the busses in Perth. Source: EcoFutures magazine May-July 2002

Prius is the one
The world's second largest order of the Toyotas hybrid-powered car the Prius was recently placed by the NSW government for 200 vehicles. Source: Sunday Telegraph 18th Aug 2002.

Veggie car parts
Toyota the Japanese car maker will soon be using sweet potatoes for parts in its new vehicles. The starch extract is mixed with natural fibre and used to make internal 'natural' plastic panels the are completed biodegradable. The first vehicle to be fitted with this new environmentally friendly body part is the concept car the ES3. Source: Sunday Telegraph 7th Oct 2002.

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Environment News Service
Eco-friendly practices makes winners of 10 EU companies. This year's winners of the European Business Award for the Environment were rewarded for sustainable development efforts ranging from a new boiling system for brewing beer to an environmentally sound traffic light. In all, 10 European based companies were given the award as commendation by the European Union (EU) for their efforts to integrate sustainable development into their business practices. Go to ENS for a full report.

Battery Life
The main hurdle to electric cars is the requirement to carry large batteries. This may now be overcome by the use of large versions of lithium-ion cell batteries that power mobile phones. The research indicates this as a viable, cleaner, lighter, safer way to go and take the cars further. Source: Sydney Morning Herald 12th Oct 2002.

Ford takes on fuel cell challenge
Ford Motor Company is well down the road with its experimentation and development of a hybrid road car for the family. At present, the unit would cost about $4mil so not a viable alternative yet the plans and commitment have been made for this to be brought to the level of its normal market pricing within a decade. It claims to be the world's first hybrid which runs on a fuel cell power source with a battery backup system. Source: Sunday Telegraph 13th Oct 2002.

Plastic bags not wanted
Around the world countries are choosing to reduce the use of or ban plastic bags completely from everyday use. Ireland has a a levy on them, certain states in India have banned them already and South Africa has a partial ban in place. Nepal is set to introduce a total ban with government support and Australia is considering a levy of some sort. Source: OzPositive Oct 2002.

Green Building Partnership start up
A new building project is underway as the example of what can be done in sustainable office and commercial building. The building will be the headquarters of the Aust Conservation Foundation and is to be a showcase of water and energy efficiency and recycling, on-site waste and sewage treatment, with a roof garden as well.
It is the result of a partnership between a group of architects, designers and builders engaged by two ethical investment funds. David Suzuki has taken notice and points to this project as the way forward for healthier and more satisfying way to work and live. Source: OzPositive Oct 2002.

Faster than Hemp
A new paper fibre has been developed from the Arundo Donax plant, a reed that grows wild in southern California. It looks a bit like bamboo and can be harvested annually, grows faster than hemp and is highly adaptable. The manufacturers estimate that it can produce 25 times more useable fibre than an acres of timber and uses less water to grow and far less chemicals to process. Source: GreenBiz.com

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Councils buy recycled
Between 45 and 50 councils around Aust have now adopted a policy to buy recycled materials, choose products with recycled contents and sustainable purchasing of other kinds. An alliance in Victoria now has 41 member councils in that state alone.
The expenditure of 24 councils to date for 200/1 on recycled products is near to $7mil so overall a rather small percentage of their total budgets yet a sharp increase in this figure is expected in the current and future years.
Office paper remains the most commonly thought of recycled item yet the local products are not meeting the standards of a number of councils who are seeking more sustainable alternatives from Europe and other countries. Source: OzPositive Oct 2002.

Firms to pay for EU electronic waste clean-up
A new law to make companies meet the cost of recycling their own electronic goods from refrigerators to hairdryers has won approval from EU parliamentarians and governments, officials said.  Late-night haggling
between EU states and lawmakers led to final agreement on the bill, due to come into effect in 2006. Source: Reuters / ENS October 2002.

New Waste to Energy facility at Eastern Creek
The New South Wales Minister for the Environment, The Honourable Bob Debus MP, recently announced the approval of a public/private partnership between Waste Service NSW and GRD subsidiary Global Renewables Limited to construct the worlds first “Urban Resource – Reduction, Recovery and Recycling”, or UR-3R, facility at Eastern Creek, in Sydney.
Using a combination of technologies, the facility has a predicted reduction of greenhouse gas emissions of up to 300,000 tonnes a year. The UR-3R process works together with existing kerbside recycling and green waste collecting services by treating the currently non-recycled part of the waste stream.
The system biologically treats organic material that would otherwise go into landfill to produce both compost and biogas for the production of electricity. The plant will also recover around 17,000 tonnes of plastic, glass, paper and metals each year for recycling. Source: WATTS News October 2002.

Natural protection for boats
A local Sydney-based firm has discovered a natural way to proof the hulls of boats against bacteria build up. It is seen as a solution to the dilemna boat owners have faced till now and this compound, based on a ready source from seaweed, will help regenerate marine life in damaged environments. Source: Sunday Telegraph 11th November 2002.

Poor farmers see success in Fairtrade
The Fairtrade movement has grown steadily since the early 1990s, mainly in Europe but also in Japan and North America. While economists and trade and development experts debate the rules of international trade and agonise over how to combine open markets with a fair deal for poor farmers, a band of specialist organisations has built a niche commodity market. A promotional Fairtrade Fortnight was run recently in the UK and Ireland.
Buyers pay not only a guaranteed minimum that is well above the current, depressed, market price but also a special premium for social development. And they offer a long-term, direct relationship rather than the haphazard sales through a middleman that are typical of commodity trading.
During the past decade, 16 other Fairtrade organisations have been set up, including in Australia. Worldwide sales now amount to about E250m ($218m), the vast majority of which is in Europe.
Mr Ohemeng,  managing director of Kuapa Kokoo, a Ghanaian cocoa co-operative, says consumers hold the key: "A bite of Fairtrade chocolate means a lot to peasant farmers in the south. It opens the doors to development and gives children access to [healthcare], education and a decent standard of living." Source: Financial Times 2002

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Indian innovator awarded top environment prize
Calling him "one of the world's great environmental thinkers and innovators," the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has awarded to Dr. Ashok Khosla of India the 2002 Sasakawa Environment Prize.  Dr. Khosla received the prize for teaching and fostering environmentally friendly, commercially viable technologies across India.
http://ens-news.com/ens/oct2002/2002-10-31-03.asp Source: ENS - Sustainable Business News November 2002.

Office supply giant sets new standard
In what could mark the beginning of a shift in how the paper industry does business, office supply giant Staples, Inc. today committed to bold steps aimed at reducing its consumption of paper products made from endangered forests. The company's new environmental paper procurement policy has won the endorsement of conservation groups that have spent years drawing attention to Staples' impact on the world's surviving virgin forests.
Under the new policy, Staples, an $11 billion retailer of office supplies and business services, pledged to phase out purchases of paper products from endangered forests, and achieve an average of 30 percent post consumer recycled content across all paper products sold by the company.
Staples will set an industry standard through its voluntary move toward recycled and environmentally friendly paper purchases. Source: ENS November 2002.

US states acting on their own to fight global warming
While the Bush administration has pulled the United States out of an international treaty to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, individual US states have taken steps on their own to fight global warming, a Pew Centre on Global Climate Change report said. Full Reuters story at. http://www.planetark.org/dailynewsstory.cfm/newsid/18623/story.htm Source: ENS - Sustainable Business News, December 2002.

"RAIN SONGS" BREAK DROUGHT !
New words to old songs tell how to bring vitality and RAIN to people & planet to create VITALITY in Community.
In the beginning is the word - and the words were sung with power and passion the night before the heaviest rainfalls in over a year were experienced across NSW. An Avalon singing group, "A'Cappella 'Round the Bends" sang a series of "Rainmaking" songs written by Richard O'Neill for "Ocean & Outback" .The songs were written with new words to well known tunes, with the intention of enabling people to quickly "sing-up" and revitalize themselves and the environment -  it WORKED !!!
Aboriginal people have traditionally "Sung - Up" the land - if we re-member ourselves and do it too all will be more alive !!
"My father, the late Jack Kelly was the last rainmaker in the Broken Hill area - singing & chanting is very powerful - it comes straight from within the soul in our language - we sing up fish, rain, and are the custodians of the birthing song of this region" - Beryl Carmichael - Aboriginal Elder
See full NEWS report - "Rain Songs" Break Drought  Word Doc with further details at 
 http://www.excelink.com.au/rainsongs.html Source: Visioning Australia News - 16 December 2002

Recycling Water plan in pipeline
NSW government has developed a plan to construct a 35 km pipeline to bring recycled water to thousands of businesses and homes from Glenfield to Malabar. It will tap into more than 1300 million litres of treated waste water normally discharged into the sea each day.
Part of the pipeline exists already and it is planned that the upgrade and the extension of the system will begin in 2005. Recycled water will be available to industrial estates, golf clubs, parks and residential developments, so reducing the growing demand on current drinking water supplies. Source: Sunday Telegraph 8th December 2002.

Reed Bed to Treat Effluent in an Australian First
Work has begun in Eurobodalla Shire (SE NSW) on an environmentally-friendly reed bed sewage disposal system. Believed to be a first in Australia, the technology will be used to treat effluent from the township of Turlinjah which currently relies on septic tanks for its sewage disposal.
The sewage is piped to the reed beds for treatment, then to a holding tank before it is reused on adjoining farms. The council hopes the new scheme will protect the area's oyster industry from the groundwater contamination that septic systems may cause. For more information contact Ted Johnstone on 02 9958 2266. Source: Environs Australia Best Five Minutes, 13th December 2002

Articles - 2003

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Increase in Socially Responsible Investment
It is apparent that there will be an increase in SRI if the new rules are introduced that require fund managers to disclose their SRI-related investment policies and procedures. Also, the Australian ASIC has already surpassed the standards set in other countries like Netherlands, UK and France by requiring financial advisers to establish the views of their clients on labour standards, and environmental, social and ethical considerations. Source: Sunday Telegraph 26th January 2003.

Congo Basin forest partners hold initial meeting
The first international meeting of the Congo Basin Forest Partnership took place in January. Launched in September 2002 at the World Summit on Sustainable Development, the partnership seeks to promote economic development and alleviate poverty through conservation programs in six African countries. The tropical forests of Africa's Congo Basin are some of the last remaining large areas of primeval forested lands in the world. Source: ENS http://ens-news.com/ens/jan2003/2003-01-17-01.asp

Research into backyard polluters
The NSW EPA has given the Parramatta Council $30,000 to carry out research into ways to bring efficiency and maintenance to small garden machinery. It is now realised that these machines, such as mowers and other 2 stroke tools, produce and disproportionate amount of greenhouse gases for their size.
The plan is to develop a council operated  guide for homeowners how to maintain and repair their machinery and save money as well as reducing pollution. A start rating system will be established and lead by the council auditing its own equipment first, as the test case. Source: Saturday Herald 1st February 2003.

Clean air from War effort
The US army is stepping up its interest in fuel cell and hybrid technology for its vehicle and auxiliary power sources. The GM-Built truck using a hybrid powertrain could well be on their shopping list soon. Source: Thecarconnection.com/Saturday Herald 1st February 2003.

ATA in the media
Due to the high levels of interest from listeners and the talents of Alternative Technology Association people involved, ABC Victoria Regional Radio will continue its fortnightly segments on sustainable living issues this year. The program should remain around the Tuesday 10.30am slot. ATA invites members to suggest ideas and topics for discussion on this segment. It's a great way to get our message across to the whole state. If members from other states feel there is an opportunity for something similar on their local radio, we'd love to hear from you. Contact ATA's Media Officer, Sally Nowlan, via email at sally.nowlan@ata.org.au or phone on (03) 9380 3409. Source: ATA Sun Newsletter February 2003.

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Energy task force
Following submission of an expression of interest, the ATA and two welfare organisations, Home Ground and Infoxchange Australia are now in discussions with Sustainable Energy Authority of Victoria to form a partnership to improve the energy efficiency of low income households in the Broadmeadows region in Melbourne’s Western suburbs. Over 300 houses would be retrofitted depending on their needs with a range of energy efficiency solutions including insulation, draft stoppers, and low flow shower heads. Source: ATA Sun Newsletter February 2003.

UNEP looks at making green "cool"
Hoping to make sustainable living more "cool," the United Nations Environment Programme is launching a new initiative aimed at improving the image of environmentally friendly lifestyle choices. Many audiences are turned off by the judgmental tone of traditional messages about the environment, UNEP Executive-Director Klaus Toepfer told environmental ministers. Source: ENS February 2003
http://ens-news.com/ens/feb2003/2003-02-05-06.asp

Red squirrels evolving with global warming
Red squirrels are rapidly evolving in response to global warming - they are the first mammals in which such genetic changes have been seen. The discovery could bode well for other species struggling to adapt to new conditions, say researchers. The work joins a growing body of evidence that many living things are changing their abundance, distribution and behaviour in response to increasing global temperatures. Moreover.com / New Scientist http://c.moreover.com/click/here.pl?e60492922&e=6347. Source: Sustainable Business News Feb 2003

Jojoba Power
Egyptian scientists believe that they have established that Jojoba oil could be used as a replacement fuel for diesel used by cars and trucks. Not only does it work as well as diesel, it releases much fewer polluting chemicals then diesel. It is chemically stable, generates a lot of energy and is much cleaner, so it is a most suitable alternative fuel if developed cost-effectively. Source: Sunday Telegraph 9th March 2003.

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Rain making is back in vogue
New Rain Making Toolkit for Kids & Country at www.excelink.com.au/rainsongs.html  Call Richard T O'Neill, Managing Director, Excelink Pacific / Australian Visions. Tel 9251 7866.   Mob 0417 244 600.

Brazilian Car industry running on sugar
A Brazilian car has been produced that can run on normal petrol and alcohol extracted from sugar cane. In fact this is only one of a number of vehicles now in production by other companies that can use one or a mixture of both fuels. The engines are being called 'flexi fuel' and come from Chevrolet, Volkswagen and General Motors plants in Brazil and come ins a variety of sizes from 1.3 to 1.6. Fiat is soon to join the move at the end of 2003. Source: Sunday Telegraph 19th July 2003.

Energy to generate bank dollars
Babcock & Brown investment bankers have taken a step in line with the trend of other bankers by investing in wind energy farms. Other such banks like the Macquarie invest in tollways and other ventures that generate sound profits. B&B have chosen wind energy as their cash cow and are investing to the tune of $1.5 billions worth of wind projects in NSW, SA and WA.
This form of investment is seen to have high capital expenditure and low operating costs and both are most likely to show strong growth. Also included in the B&B future energy focus are gas-fired power stations along with biomass projects. Renewable energy is the way forward for B&B in a noticeable way. Source: Sunday Telegraph 19th July 2003.

Community Investment Assets Nearly Double Over the Past Two Years
Community investment is the fastest growing component of SRI in the US, with assets in community development financial institutions (CDFIs) nearly doubling over the past two years. According to the Community Investing Program, a project of the Social Investment Forum (SIF) and Co-op America, total assets held by CDFIs in the US grew 84 percent during that period, from $7.6 billion in 2001 to $14 billion in 2003. Community investing offers financial services to economically disadvantaged people in U.S. and overseas communities who are underserved by traditional financial institutions.
"Expanding community investment goes beyond simply generating sound returns for investors. It extends the benefits of SRI to individuals and communities who need and deserve fair economic opportunities," said Mr. Falk. Source: AccountAbility Newsletter December 2003.

AA1000 Assurance Standard Practitioners Note launched
AccountAbility is delighted to announce the release of the first AA1000 Assurance Standard Practitioners Note. AA1000 Assurance Standard Practitioners Notes share common experiences and understanding about the role of sustainability assurance and the AA1000 Assurance Standard in particular.
This AA1000 Assurance Standard Practitioners Note was produced from a consultation with early adopters that was held in association with Novo Nordisk. Adopting companies that participated in the event were BP, British American Tobacco, BT, Camelot, mmO2, Novo Nordisk, and Novozymes. To download the Practitioners Note go to: http://www.accountability.org.uk/uploadstore/cms/docs/December%202003%20Practitioners%20Note%20-%20Companies%20-%20London.pdf Source: www.accounyability.org.uk January 2003

Articles - 2004

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Timing is relevant
The Victorian Government has just ordered 100 Toyota Prius hybrid vehicles. This is part of a dramatic increase in orders for this petrol/electric car. It all adds up to almost the same number being ordered since October 2003 than the 490 ordered for the entire 2000 and 2001 combined. Source: Sunday Telegraph 25th January 2004

Tenant buildings turning green
Two of the largest building tenants in Australia have recently decided to turn their new offices green. Ernst & Young have signed an agreement with Sustainable Energy Development Authority in NSW to make their next 3 offices under construction will all have a rating of 4.5 stars on the 5 star Aust Building Greenhouse Rating scheme.
KPMG has also undertaken to achieve the same 4.5 rating in their new 26,000sqm office. This and other buildings will be a part of a new broad sustainability policy they are implementing. Not only energy efficiency is its focus as other practices are being introduced over and above reducing emissions.
Both companies confirm that their approach to more environmentally sound practices are greatly appreciated and supported by staff. Source Sydney Morning Herald 7th Feb 2004.

TransFair USA Drives Increase in Product Demand - Supplemental Income To Coffee Farmers Reaches 34 Million Dollars
Oakland, CA (March 29, 2004) - TransFair USA, the nation's only independent, third party certifier of Fair Trade products, announces unprecedented demand for Fair Trade Certified(tm) coffee during the year 2003. For the period of January 1 through December 31, 2003, TransFair USA certified 18.7 million pounds of coffee, up from 9.8 million pounds in the previous 12 months -- a year-over-year growth rate of 91 percent. Supplemental income generated for coffee farmers during that same period totalled $15.9 million, bringing the total additional income farmers have received from U.S. sales of Fair Trade Certified coffee in five years to $34 million. In 2003, 100 new companies signed up to sell Fair Trade Certified products and approximately 8,000 new retail outlets began selling Fair Trade Certified products for the first time, bringing the total to almost 20,000 cafes, restaurants and supermarkets nationwide.
Fair Trade Certified coffee imports have grown at a dramatic 75% average annual growth rate since TransFair USA launched the label in late 1998. In 2003, market growth accelerated to 91%, demonstrating increased consumer demand for Fair Trade coffee as well as the concept's entry into mainstream distribution channels like Dunkin' Donuts. Faced with declining quality, the destabilization of historically high-quality suppliers, and growing concern over the suffering of coffee farmers in today's prolonged price crisis, the specialty coffee industry is embracing Fair Trade certification as the most effective strategy for delivering a fair price back to farmers. As a result, Fair Trade has emerged as the fastest growing segment of the specialty coffee industry Source: 3rd April 2004

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Province Proposes Renewable Tariffs For Community Wind Projects
First in North America

Seed Money
In what is being described as an Australian first, Western Australia government is putting funding behind a scheme to grow canola and mustard sewed for biodiesel. This biofuel will be used to make 25,000 litres required to run research stations in Avondale, Newdegate and Merredin. Source: SMH 7th August 2004

Articles  - 2005

Hemp Houses
Southern University and a group of partners from the building industry and ecological groups are working with a Northern Coast Council to build the first houses from hemp in Aust. It has excellent insulation properties and it is lightweight which give it unique superior features as a building material, apart from its renewable source. The house will use about 2.5 mill plants grown especially on 1.3 hectares which is part of a sewage plant and soaks up effluent in its growing process.
The cost of building in hemp at this stage will be similar to using conventional bricks. Source: Saturday Morning Herald, March 2005

Hybrids in the tough end of town
Volvo has developed a hybrid diesel-electric engine to trucks and buses which it claims will be the first in the world and which could be in production as soon as 2009. This hybrid engine will allow heavy vehicles to run on one or both forms of energy at once, similar to this in passenger cars.
The Volvo chief executive said: "This makes us weep with pleasure". Source: Sunday Telegraph 19th March 2006

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