Sustainability Matters Aug/Sep 2012

Products. Support. Expertise.

When you buy direct from Hach Pacific you will receive access to the largest offering of the highest quality lab and process water analytics as well as outstanding service and application support.

Hach is your trusted partner in water analysis.

Innovative Process Instrumentation

Integrated Lab Solutions and Chemistries

Expert Support

Dependable Service

Contact a Hach Pacific office near you for direct order and sales support: AUS: 1300 887 735 • NZ: 0800 50 55 66 www.hachpacific.com

2 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

contents

August/September 2012

R

4

Leading the way Sustainability champion for water

6

A Social Licence to Operate

8

Case studies

16

Pumps performing at wastewater plant

23

Every cloud has a solar lining

25

Research & development

29

Cleaning up legacy contamination at steelworks’ site

31

Products & services

35

Boost for water treatment specialist

39

More than 9 in 10 businesses unaware carbon tax assistance is available

45

Resource centre

Legislation, governance, programs and industry links to help guide y our sustainability development

46

In my opinion

Broader producer responsibility

enewable energy is an increasing focus for both developing and developed nations. According to a recent report by GlobalData, investments in solar power overtook those in wind power for the first time in 2011.

During the ‘Tech Innovation in largescale solar’ session at the recent Clean Energy Week conference, trends in hybrids such as solar-thermal as well as large-scale concentrated solar power (CSP) including relatively new solar tower technology are all looking like a good prospect for the future.

In another report, the Australian Energy Technology Assessment (AETA) from the independent Bureau of Resources and Energy Economics (BREE) has found that both tracking and non-tracking solar photovoltaic technology could soon be increasingly cost competitive along with onshore wind.

The report states that solar thermal, wave, nuclear and geothermal technology costs are also forecast to fall and be cost competitive with some coal- and gas-based technologies by 2030.

Co- and trigeneration systems have also become increasingly popular over the past few years as a means of reducing a building’s environmental impact and costs. To reflect this trend, the NABERS rating system has released a paper on how externally supplied electricity and thermal energy from these plants could be accounted for by the ratings.

Carolyn Jackson sm@westwick-farrow.com.au

Westwick-Farrow Media is committed to using environmentally responsible print services to produce our publications.

PAPER This edition is printed on recycled paper (FSC Mixed Sources Certified) from an elemental chlorine free process.

PRINT It is printed by Webstar (ISO12647-2, FSC COC and PEFC certified), using soy-based inks and CTP plate processing.

WRAPPER It is delivered in a totally degradable plastic wrapper.

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 3

Leading the way

Sustainability champion for water

S Chris McIntire is P r e s i d e n t o f X y l e m ’s Analytics value centre which delivers equipment for measurement for water and wastewater, environmental, medical, industrial, and food and beverage applications. A graduate of Northeastern University where he earned an MBA, he has attended both Boston University and Northeastern University’s engineering programs. In 2012, Xylem created a new position - Sustainability Champion - and he was chosen to fill this vital role.

There are no ifs about it - fully committing to our sustainability journey is the only option. All of our stakeholders expect that level of commitment.

ustainability can be a hard idea to wrap your head around because it’s so broad. So here are two ways we want to think about it at Xylem: first, we have a global definition - meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs; and second, we have a business definition - generating shareholder value by controlling risks and capitalising on opportunities associated with environmental and socioeconomic issues.

There are also ways we don’t want to define it. It’s not an exercise in compliance. It’s not a ‘green’ initiative designed to appeal to a select few. It’s not an extra task or something we do in addition to our regular work. And it’s not the latest and greatest idea that will fade away in the near future.

Xylem is a pure-play water technology company, and our simple vision of advancing the smarter use of water and looking to a future where global water issues do not exist means that sustainability needs to be integrated into everything we do.

One of CEO Gretchen McClain’s goals for Xylem - advancing a sustainable environment - is a clear indication of her support. My appointment as Sustainability Champion is another indication of toplevel management support, but clearly our commitment doesn’t end there.

Our effort in sustainability - similar to any significant efforts in a corporation - also requires bottom-up actions.

Xylem’s true commitment will be seen in the excellent work that will be done by the entire organisation.

The commitment to sustainability at Xylem is already great, but we are truly at the beginning of our sustainability journey.

We have already completed a gap analysis between our current programs and best practices in sustainability. Recently, we formed a Xylem Sustainability Steering Committee that is now reviewing these gaps and developing a five-year action plan based on specific gaps which have the highest priority for Xylem.

4 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

That plan will be our roadmap for becoming a leader in sustainability, and broad participation will drive our success.

So we will create action teams - with employees from multiple value centres and functions - to target these specific areas across the company and determine ways we can collaborate across businesses and geographies.

There are no ifs about it - fully committing to our sustainability journey is the only option. All of our stakeholders expect that level of commitment.

With our new Essence of Life business model, Xylem is creating affordable, simple water solutions for small plot farmers and rural customers in emerging markets. We have helped modernise a vegetable-washing operation in South Australia using our water recycling system, which was developed by our Residential & Commercial Water business. The system at the plant is largely self-sustaining and can recirculate over 60,000 L of water throughout the plant.

When we are fully committed, we will: • Find ways to include our suppliers in our overall sustainability efforts.

• Advance our new product development process with the goal of increasing focus on sustainable solutions through innovation.

• Run all our facilities in the most sustainable ways possible.

• Raise public awareness of water issues, be an advocate for regulations and practices that drive water sustainability, and do more external, transparent reporting to tell the world our sustainability story.

There’s no doubt in my mind that we will do it. I have been in the business of analysing water for nearly 25 years and have been involved in program after program that had elements of sustainability. But Xylem’s focus and commitment are different and deeper. We are making sustainability part of who and what we are as a company. It is a key part of Xylem’s strategy and a critical component of our future success.

Xylem Water Solutions Australia Limited Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q900

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

CLIPCOM 25052

PowerStruxure removes the guesswork from your energy business decisions Now you can turn the uncertainty of your Power energy expenditures into a controllable, Tested, validated and documented Every solution is tested and approved by manageable cost. certified internal labs and documented by our Manage the delicate balance between efficiency and productivity Business runs on electricity. It’s not as simple as it sounds. Power-sensitive processes require high availability and reliability, but this can raise costs and jeopardise profits. Unplanned outages, emissions regulations and energy price volatility add more complexity. Solutions must unite the entire enterprise and solve the energy challenge.

PowerStruxure exceeds traditional power management Building on our years of innovation in electrical distribution, PowerStruxure is an advanced family of integrated solutions that allow you to monitor, analyse, and control your entire power distribution network and act quickly to make effective decisions. As part of our EcoStruxureTM offer that delivers optimised systems across your enterprise to bring up to 30% energy savings, PowerStruxure brings clarity to your power networks to help you improve reliability and save money.

Services that leverage and protect your investment Our worldwide network of energy experts and full range of services answers your needs throughout your installation lifecycle, from audits and system diagnostics through installation and maintenance.

Find out the six steps for establishing performance metrics to support your energy management plan. Download our FREE White Paper ‘Measured success’.

technical experts.

Leading power monitoring and control software

Our StruxureWareTM suite includes power management systems designed to stay on top of real-time conditions, and control loads.

Communication devices and protocols

At the heart of your solution, devices and protocols link the software with your power network hardware.

World-class hardware

A wide range of products including intelligent metering devices, switchgear, circuit-breakers, protection relays and power factor correction equipment.

Visit www.SEreply.com key code 52726K © 2012 Schneider Electric. All Rights Reserved. Schneider Electric and Make the most of your energy are trademarks owned by Schneider Electric Industries SAS or its affiliated companies.

• 78 Waterloo Road, Macquarie Park, NSW 2113 AUSTRALIA • www.schneider-electric.com.au • 1300 369 233

A Social Licence to Operate Leah O'Brien-Addison*

Over the past decade words like ‘stakeholder’ and ‘engagement’ have worked their way into everyday mainstream business language, and the ‘e’ word appears liberally in government, corporate, private enterprise and not-for-profit organisation policies, annual reports and public communications.

© iStockphoto.com/ Alexander Chernyakov

A company cannot buy a

Social Licence to Operate it has to be earned,

and

granted

maintained

6 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

Social impacts

W

here the term ‘stakeholder engagement’ is linked to the concept of decision making, it would seem there is growing understanding and acceptance by the power holders that citizens across many spheres of society desire and expect to have a say and input into decisions that will affect them and their quality of life.

This has been formalised in concepts like Stakeholder and Community Engagement and Public Participation. In response, the International Association of Public Participation (IAP2) has developed the “IAP2 Core Values for Public Participation” for use in the development and implementation of public-participation processes.

Triple-bottom-line accountability is now an everyday concept in public and private infrastructure development and delivery. It is becoming more clearly understood that for a development or project to be sustainable, it needs to be economically viable, environmentally responsible and socially acceptable, or at least tolerable. In Australia, social-impact assessments have become an integral part of the environmental approval process for major projects in Queensland, and socially responsible proponents in other parts of the country are including this dimension in their proposal developments without the legislative requirement. This is being driven by a range of business imperatives, including the need for companies to avoid reputation risk, demonstrate corporate social responsibility and, increasingly, by the realisation and appreciation of how essential it is for a company or organisation to earn and maintain a Social Licence to Operate (SLtO).

An SLtO is effectively the degree of approval or acceptance granted to an organisation’s project or operations by the potentially affected community and other interested stakeholders. It is not a tangible, one-off formal ‘approval’ by a cohesive authority or other organisation. Rather, it is an ongoing reflection of the perceptions, opinions, attitudes and actions of the community in relation to the particular project or issue. While ever-changing and

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

responsive to the organisation’s performance and perceptions thereof, the SLtO is usually measureable - typically across key parameters such as the community’s degree of rejection, acceptance, approval and support for a particular endeavour.

A striking example of where the local community has withdrawn a company’s SLtO is the Newmont Mining Corp (NEM) $4.8 billion gold mine project in Conga, Peru. Newmont stopped construction in November last year, after violent protests in the northern Peru region of Cajamarca.

In December, the government was forced to declare a state of emergency after boulders were used to block exits from the regional

It is becoming more clearly understood

that

development

or

for

a

project

to be sustainable, it needs

to

be

economically viable, environmentally responsible and socially acceptable, or at least tolerable. capital of more than 200,000 inhabitants.

Schools, hospitals and businesses were closed and dozens injured in clashes with police. NEM will have to increase spending considerably if it wants to advance the stalled project.

In another example, closer to home, up to 4000 people from across the state staged a noisy rally outside NSW Parliament early in May 2012, calling for tougher restrictions on coal and coal seam gas mining.

The Deputy Premier Andrew Stoner was shouted at and booed as he tried to reassure the angry crowd the state government would protect agricultural land. A broad coalition of farmers, rural residents, environmentalists and other activists marched on the Parliament, banging drums and chanting “country and city united we stand, protect our water, protect our land.”

Effective and respectful stakeholder and community engagement in which the aspirations, concerns, needs and values of citizens and communities are incorporated

at all levels of a project can contribute to building trust and to a company or organisation being granted a SLtO by the community in which it operates.

A structured program of social engagement is likely to generate a range of key benefits, including: • Minimising the risk of social disruption to a project and operations, thus preserving project delivery timelines and operations continuity; • R educing security costs and risks through securing the support of the community living around the facility; • Reducing environmental data-collection needs (and thus associated costs) as data collection and analysis can be focused on addressing social concerns early (in addition to that required for regulatory compliance); • Reducing legal costs, as early engagement reduces the potential for legal challenges from the community as the project progresses; and • Reducing stress on company employees through working in a supportive community.

A company cannot buy a Social Licence to Operate - it has to be earned, granted and maintained. Companies committed to investing in stakeholder and community engagement, social programs and community capacity building in their spheres of influence, have realised this and are reaping the rewards of their investments. *Leah O'Brien-Addison is Principal Stakeholder Engagement at SLR, an international environmental consultancy with 160 staff in Australia. The company provides global advice and support on a wide range of strategic and site-specific issues to a diverse and growing base of business, regulatory and governmental clients. Key areas of SLR’s business are the energy and mining sector where it is involved with both the oil and gas industry, renewable power including wind, energy from waste, hydropower and biomass, and advising mining companies and funding organisations throughout the world.

SLR Consulting Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q862

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 7

case study

Virtual control for water treatment

T

he ‘virtual control room’ concept for treatment plants and pipeline system operations has been introduced by Water Infrastructure Group. The implementation of the concept was fuelled by a technology convergence in 2011.

Devices such as smartphones, iPads and fast 3G and broadband services converged with mature software for automation processes and asset management. This convergence coincided with the rapid rise of social media and a generation of operational recruits who are very comfortable with mobile technology and the virtual online world.

Wa t e r I n f r a s t r u c t u r e G r o u p Operations Manager Bruce Anderson began developing the virtual control room concept. “The aim was to make operations for the infrastructure that we own more efficient. As a private operator

Water Infrastructure Group partnered with Eurobodalla Shire Council and NSW Department of Public Works to deliver a hightech water treatment plant on the NSW South Coast.

of essential services, our key issues are guaranteeing business continuity and regulatory compliance. The virtual control room enables us to comply not only with increasingly stringent EPA and health requirements, but also with the commercial terms of our contracts with our clients.

“The virtual control room gives us the ability to closely monitor our plants 24/7 and respond immediately so that our plants operate at maximum efficiency,” explained Bruce.

Wa t e r I n f r a s t r u c t u r e G r o u p ’s innovation with the Virtual Control Room was recognised at the 2012 Institute of Public Works NSW Engineering Excellence Awards announced in May this year. The Innovation in Water Supply and Wastewater Operations award was presented to Water Infrastructure Group, Eurobodalla Shire Council and the NSW Department of Public Wo r k s f o r t h e E u r o b o d a l l a Northern Water Treatment Plant in Batemans Bay. Water Infrastructure Group partnered with Eurobodalla Shire Council and NSW Department of Public Works to deliver a hightech water treatment plant on the NSW South Coast. Water Infrastructure Group’s early involvement in the project led to several significant changes to the design of the plant to increase efficiency and operability - a key innovation being the Virtual Control Room.

Eurobodalla Shire Council General Manager Paul Anderson said the Virtual Control Room Bondi Ocean Outfall Sewer Rehabilitation Project was ideally suited to a regional

8 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

facility and provided a number of benefits to council and the community, and these were recognised by the IPWEA Award.

“Our operators are able to safely and productively monitor and control the plant remotely via smartphones or iPads.

Its efficiency also provides flexibility to council and its remote management saves us both time and money,” said Paul.

The operators can complete work orders on the spot, rather than taking handwritten notes to key in later on the desktop. When it comes to maintenance and repairs, the service history and maintenance schedules for all the equipment are available on the spot, right when and where the operator needs them. The overall status of each of the operations sites can be managed from a central convenient location, and with real-time monitoring, issues can be identified early.

Water Infrastructure Group also received the AWA National Safety Excellence Award for the Bondi Ocean Outfall Sewer Rehabilitation Project at OzWater in May. Peter Everist, Water Infrastructure Group General Manager, said that it was very pleasing to receive recognition for innovation and safety. “Innovation and safety are two key areas that we have focused on in our business to deliver real benefits to our staff, clients and the community. This focus is now paying dividends and it’s great to see the efforts of our people and our leadership in these areas recognised by the industry,” Peter said.

Water Infrastructure Group Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q368

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

case studies index  Virtual control for water treatment

 Wastewater treatment plant

flying high at Sydney Airport

8 10

Wastewater treatment plant flying high at Sydney Airport

 Hybrid power station installed in remote location 12  Gas powered retrofit improves building efficiency 12  Uniting the community under one cool roof

14

 Energy management in the cloud for tenants

14

 Sustainable products key to refurbishment project

 Using the sun to solve water quality problems

 Carbon offset project for brewed drink company

17 18 18

 Water-cycle management integral to sustainable urban renewal

 Overhaul for ageing

wastewater infrastruture

 Real-time monitoring for flood predictability

19 20 21

research & development index  Scientists discover abrupt

increase in CO2 uptake by the land biosphere

25

 Research group to improve knowledge of groundwater assets

26

 Portable device detects soil contamination

26

 Curtin receives funding for emission-reduction technology 27

 Economic visions for

desalination in Australia

28

The region of Sydney has experienced water supply issues that have led to a rise in costs for potable water supplies. This, coupled with environmental concerns, has led the region’s government to implement water quality regulations and drive reuse initiatives.

In order to meet continued pressures being placed on commercial and government organisations to conserve fresh water supplies, Sydney International Airport, Terminal 1 (T1), created an environmental planning strategy to design and construct a water treatment plant in order to recycle its wastewater and reduce its dependency on fresh water.

Housed within an architecturally designed, commercial facility at Sydney International Airport, the Recycled Water Treatment Plant is designed to recycle the airport’s wastewater for non potable use, including use in cooling towers around the terminal and toilet flushing within the terminal.

As part of its wastewater treatment plant design, Sydney Airport Corporation selected a GE solution that combined a Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) system and Reverse Osmosis (RO) system. The MBR system is used to treat (recycle and reuse) domestic/airport sewerage and allow that treated water to be used in the flushing of the airport’s toilet system.

At the core of the MBR system is GE’s ZeeWeed 500 membrane; an advanced filtration technology that separates particles, bacteria and viruses from wastewater.

These membranes are reinforced, hollow fibres that have been proven in more than two decades of wastewater treatment and water reuse.

The RO system implemented into the design, GE’s PRO Series RO system, desalinates the treated sewerage/effluent to feed the cooling tower, which requires a pure water quality. The PRO platform is a range of pre-engineered RO machines with their supporting components including multimedia filters, carbon filters, water softeners, chemical feed systems, tanks and pumps for the building blocks of a fullscale configurable water system.

By implementing the combination of products from GE, Sydney Airport Corporation was able to generate the quality of treated water required by the Department of Water and Energy (DWE). Additionally, the water used for the cooling tower also meets the additional requirements for low calcium and magnesium recycled water at all times. Levels are measured each month to ensure compliance to these requirements.

Sydney Airport Corporation was also able to realise a 55-60% cost savings on potable water costs. By not having to send their sewerage out as industrial waste, there are additional savings, bringing the total approximate cost savings for water coming into, and out of, the facility to over $500,000 annually.

GE Energy Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N868

10 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

case studies Hybrid power station installed in remote location AEG Power Solutions’ (AEGPS) New Caledonian ecopx hybrid power station is now fully operational. The complete integrated solution was part of a contract signed with OPT (Office des Postes &Telecommunications) in New Caledonia last year. It combines solar and wind energy with batteries and a genset as emergency back-up. The integrated hybrid system manages the network site power from end to end, providing operating cost reductions, security, reliability and a carbon footprint improvement.

OPT is the local New Caledonia operator which is owned by the local government. In 2010, AEGPS was awarded a contract including DC systems and UPS, the maintenance of several of the operator’s sites, and a new power solution for OPT’s remote wireless station of Cap Sommet, on a mountain near Bourail on the east coast.

As the former installation was powered by two diesel gensets, the operating costs were high due, in part, to the complexity of the maintenance, as the site is only accessible via a cart track or helicopter.

To decrease costs and improve the carbon footprint of the installation, the operator was looking for a solution based on renewable energy resources.

AEG Power Solutions’ ecopx Hybrid power solution was a suitable match for this challenge. It combines renewable solar and wind energy with battery storage and, when required, a stand-by diesel generator.

It manages the network site power from end to end, from energy generation to energy storage, including load surveillance and remote supervision.

For OPT, the ecopx system installed is a large one. The energy sources comprise a group of solar panels, capable of generating up to 11 kW, and a 5 kW wind turbine, as well as two sets of batteries of 3000 Ah. One diesel genset has been kept as a backup and is started automatically on demand by the system.

Powerbox Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q318

Gas powered retrofit improves building efficiency FMSA recently completed an environmental retrofit of its office building in North Melbourne, which included installation of three 85 kW Yanmar gas powered air conditioning systems. This helped to reduce its energy usage and energy costs while improving the efficiency of its building.

FMSA is a Melbourne-based firm offering comprehensive architectural, interior design, urban design and professional construction management services. Its building has three office floors, each approximately 400 square metres, plus a basement car park.

FMSA worked with Greater Pacific Engineering on a design and construct basis.

The project incorporated several energy-saving initiatives, such as an environmentally efficient building management system (BMS), in addition to the Yanmar gas powered air conditioning system. The BMS shuts down the air conditioning system when the windows are open.

Michael Fooks, FMSA Director, explained: “The choice of the gas-fired system meant a 50% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions ... while also creating a countercyclical effect on peak demand.”

The firm previously used electric air conditioning, so there were no power constraint issues in upgrading to the Yanmar gas powered variable refrigerant flow (VRF) solution. FMSA now saves on energy usage and costs and has added to the quality and efficiency of its building in the long term. Preliminary calculations, such as energy use comparisons and carbon emissions, were undertaken by Umow Lai, a sustainability and engineering services consultancy.

FMSA completed the project with the assistance of the Green Building Fund which is an Australian Government initiative that aims to reduce the impact of Australia’s built environment on carbon emissions by cutting operational energy usage, focusing on retrofitting existing commercial office buildings.

Accessing the Green Building Fund did not require the project to have a formal NABERS or Green Star rating performed. FMSA was required to model a green building design and show energy cost savings through implementing environmental efficiencies that reduced energy use. Prior to the retrofit, FMSA’s building was assessed and awarded the equivalent of a conventional 2 stars.

Fooks suggested the installation of Yanmar’s gas powered air conditioning units was a major contributor to improving the environmental efficiency of the office building. While no formal NABERS or Green Star rating has been targeted, 5 star modelling has been implemented throughout the building retrofit.

Fooks said the primary reasons for implementing gas powered air conditioning were sustainability factors and improving energy efficiency. “It is worth giving serious consideration to gas-fired climate control, as opposed to more conventional electric systems. We are certainly pleased with the installers and the result,” Fooks said.

Origin Energy Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N931

12 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

From ITT comes Xylem.

Historically, ITT Water & Wastewater was part of the ITT Corporation, a global engineering and manufacturing company providing advanced technical and operational services to markets within Defence, Aerospace and Fluid Technology.

We are 12,000 people unified in a common purpose: creating innovative solutions to global water challenges.

We know this is only achieved when partnering closely with our customers. We are committed to continuing the product innovation and forward thinking you’ve come to expect from the collection of market-leading brands in the Xylem portfolio.

We are 12,000 people unified in a common purpose: creating innovative solutions to global water challenges.

We know this is only achieved when partnering closely with our customers. We are committed to continuing the product innovation and forward thinking you’ve come to expect from the collection of market-leading brands in the Xylem portfolio.

Tel 13 19 14

case studies Uniting the community under one cool roof As one of the first buildings in Australia to showcase Colorbond Coolmax steel, Hervey Bay Community Centre successfully combines environmentally sustainable design principles and a pleasing aesthetic. Its unique ‘island-like’ structure means the building can be viewed from 360° while also making a statement with its thermal efficiency.

Designed by BAC Group Architects, the brief for the building complex was to bring together a range of community benefit programs under the one roof for the first time.

Energy management in the cloud for tenants

The standout visual feature of the centre is the roofing, made from Colorbond Coolmax steel, as it combines a series of different roofing styles and angles to create a building that is at the forefront of community design.

When considering the choice of building materials available for the centre, BAC Group Architects decided to use roofing from Colorbond Coolmax steel due to its versatility, its aesthetics and its ongoing environmental benefits for the community.

Studies show that compared to a standard roof made from Colorbond steel in the colour Surfmist, Colorbond Coolmax steel in the colour Whitehaven can lower the internal temperature of a non-air-conditioned building by approximately 0.5 to 2°C, depending on the building design. Compared to Zincalume steel, this lowers the internal temperature by approximately 2 to 4°C. The potential increase in natural thermal comfort means that it may reduce annual air-conditioning energy costs for cooling of a building by up to 7.5%.

Lend Lease Apartments’ luxury Convesso Concavo development in Victoria Harbour, Docklands, Melbourne, had to meet a number of design criteria to achieve an industry rating of ‘4 Star Green Star’ for Multi-Unit Residential buildings, as defined and audited by the Green Building Council of Australia. Included within the assessment criteria is a need to monitor energy and water use in real time. From the onset, achieving this capability for over 450 apartments was an innovative and technical challenge.

Lend Lease with Fujitsu and Switch Automation were able to integrate new networking, automation and monitoring technologies together to enable a solution that residents could easily use to manage and monitor their own energy usage. The solution was designed to comply with the energy monitoring aspects of the Green Star rating design criteria.

A key project priority was to monitor environmental controls and provide real-time energy usage metrics. Another challenge was to develop a means of using a single high-speed IP fibre cabling network to replace traditional multiple, non-IP copper cabling infrastructures.

By adopting a cloud-based energy management solution, the design team at Lend Lease now has the potential to collate this data and make ongoing design refinements.

The Switch Automation platform continuously monitors energy and hot and cold water usage and then provides a simple-to-use, in-home display to provide real-time and historical usage and trend data. This provides residents with greater visibility of energy and resource consumption. Because the energy monitoring system uses a cloud-based infrastructure, additional modular functionality can also be added at a later date. This guarantees a system that is ready to meet the needs of evolving technological change. Additionally, Lend Lease is able to track energy and water data use to aid research in how to improve future apartment designs and deliver more efficient performance from buildings.

Lend Lease’s decision to build Convesso Concavo’s communication and control solution around an industry-standard internet protocol (IP)-based network has helped to standardise the method and improve the efficiency of interfacing and integrating systems. Combined with using the Fujitsu Cloud as a systems hosting medium, any limitations on the need for localised or time zone restricted access to the system have been removed. Extra features and functions can also be added at a later date with minimal effort.

BlueScope Steel

Lend Lease Corporation

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q224

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q508

14 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

Since changing jobs from plumbing to managing a wastewater treatment facility, Wayne Brooking has kept similarities in his role; maintaining piping systems. Now he is responsible for the efficient processing of Kawerau’s wastewater on a much larger scale, and Watson-Marlow Bredel pumps are a key part of this process.

Pumps performing at wastewater plant Handling high concentration fluids

Peristaltic pumps operate on a simple principle, similar to how blood moves in our bodies; compressions to a hose or tube suck fluid in and push it forward.

K

awerau District Council is possibly New Zealand’s smallest council entity and correspondingly the wastewater treatment plant is not very big - four settling hoppers and a small chemical room make up most of it. The facility, before being handed over to the council in 2007, used to also process waste pulp from the nearby SCA tissue plant. As the pulp is now bought in, it only made sense for the facility to be used solely for Kawerau’s wastewater treatment.

At the time of upgrade, Watson-Marlow Bredel pumps were selected by the consultant due to their ability to easily handle high solids concentration and dose accurately. The plant has four Bredel SPX pumps for thickener underflow transfer, a 520U electronic cased drive unit for concentrated anioic polymer dosing and a 520 close-coupled pump for concentrated cationic polymer.

In particular, Brooking was impressed with the peristaltic pumps’ ability to han-

16 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

dle high concentration fluids. He noted, “This stuff (polymer) is nasty and thick and you don’t want to handle it unless you have to.” Such a product would undoubtedly cake fluid path intrusions that are associated with other pump types.

Peristaltic pumps operate on a simple principle, similar to how blood moves in our bodies; compressions to a hose or tube suck fluid in and push it forward.

Maintaining the plant is a busy job and installing Watson-Marlow Bredel pumps allow Brooking to focus on bigger plant issues such as fixing the centrifuge. The larger Bredel SPX pumps are installed with natural rubber hose and while their service is intermittent, the hoses last about 8 million compressions. The tubing in the dosing pumps also lasts a good distance, being quickly swapped out about every six months.

Watson-Marlow (Pty) Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N814

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

case studies Sustainable products key to refurbishment project ResourceCo’s recycled cement has been a key component in the refurbishment of the Civil Contractor’s Federation (CCF) head office and training facility redevelopment.

The CCF SA’s Centre of Excellence is being showcased as a ‘model’ for best practice environmental and sustainable construction initiatives.

The centre of excellence, at Thebarton, is the only dedicated training facility in South Australia offering an experiential, simulated, hands-on safety training environment with a particular focus on safety.

Stakeholders in the project agreed to partnering with KESAB in its Clean Site program, an educational partnership that works with the building and construction industry, training and educational organisations, the Construction Industry Training Board’s registered training organisations, together with state and local government and industry stakeholders.

“The project aim was to ensure positive, long-term environmental improvements and compliance, enabling enhanced environmental sustainability and workplace practices,” Marie Paterson, CCF SA Acting CEO said.

“We met our key goal for the demolition phase of the project to recycle and re-use as much of the original building materials as possible in the new work.”

KESAB Executive Director John Phillips said the commitment of the partners in the refurbishment was to be commended.

“The project has left a sustainable legacy for the many thousands of students that will be trained within the facility with reduced environmental impact achieved as a result of the project design and a host of environmental benefits,” he said.

“Environmental benefits derived as a result of the project’s involvement with the Clean Site program included a reduction of waste to landfill, local waterways protected from pollution together with litter prevented, particularly focusing on cigarette butts,” he added.

ResourceCo’s Concrete was used in the refurbishment, enabling it to comply with the ResourceCo environmental rating system developed by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA).

ResourceCo is the first company in SA dedicated to maximising the use of recycled aggregates and sands in the supply and manufacture of concrete.

ResourceCo Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q664

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 17

case studies Using the sun to solve water quality problems

The production of some of Australia’s favourite beverages will become greener thanks to a partnership between CO2 Australia and the brewers of the famous Bundaberg Ginger Beer, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks.

The two companies, with the support of the Queensland Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation (DEEDI), have established a carbon offset project at Moura, Queensland, 300 kilometres west of Bundaberg.

The project will allow Bundaberg Brewed Drinks to reduce its carbon footprint and provide additional environmental benefits to the landscape. The project will be established and managed by CO2 Australia.

“This is a very exciting project for CO2 Australia, as it allows for the ongoing diversification of the range of forest carbon projects that we are offering and the range of landscapes over which we can offer them,” said Andrew Grant, Chief Executive Officer of CO2 Group.

On top of reducing greenhouse emissions, the project will be used as a resource for research and development activities over coming decades.

When Eurobodalla Shire council was looking to control Blue Green Algae and improve dissolved oxygen and pH levels at Deep Creek Dam they installed five SolarBee long-distance water circulators.

Water is transferred from the Moruya River to Deep Creek Dam for storage, allowing the council to harvest large volumes of water for public supply that would otherwise flow out to sea.

As well as improving oxygen and pH levels, the SolarBees prevent stratification. The solar-powered circulators use near laminar flow technology that provides high flow, long distance circulation in water reservoirs.

The SolarBee solves water quality problems while providing significant energy savings and reducing the need for toxic chemicals.

Replacing the aerators, previously used in the dam, with the five SolarBees are claimed to have resulted in the council saving 68% of its annual electricity costs. The power savings mean, in effect, that the council’s investment in the long distance circulators will be paid off within three years.

Other advantages of using SolarBee technology include: prevents and controls harmful blue green algae blooms; reduces taste and odour problems in drinking water; reduces public health issues, improves aesthetics, water quality and biodiversity; reduces invasive aquatic weed growth; improves fish habitats, prevents fish kills and benefits fish spawning, production and survival; economical for freshwater lakes, reservoirs, wastewater and potable storage tank applications; pumps up to 38,000 L/min distributing water radially in all directions; constant 24-hour day and night operation using only solar energy; requires no in-lake infrastructure or land-based energy supply; minimal maintenance and 25 year expected operational life; and one large machine can cover up to 14 hectares of water surface area in fresh water applications.

CO2 Australia

Iguana Water Solutions

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N954

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q362

Carbon offset project for brewed drink company

18 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

case studies Water-cycle management integral to sustainable urban renewal The Urban Renewal Authority of Victoria which operates as Places Victoria sought to specify a comprehensive portfolio of best-practice building technologies including an integrated watercycle management system for The Nicholson project in inner suburban East Coburg. As well as reducing the use of valuable drinking water, the provision of a non-potable water supply at The Nicholson has helped insulate residents from rising costs for water and sewerage.

Nubian installed its CGT5-10A system compromising two biofilters, which treat the organic content of the greywater, and a triple disinfection barrier of ultrafiltration, ultraviolet light and chlorination to ensure recycled water is of the highest quality. With a 10,000 L/day capacity, the system was designed to capture water from showers then treat and re-use the water for toilet flushing and, should residents elect, for laundry use.

Rainwater is also captured for hot water use and garden irrigation which further lowers potable water consumption and significantly reduces the discharge of stormwater to nearby waterways.

Nubian worked closely with the project builders Hickory Developments to synchronise the greywater system’s installation with the construction phase so it had no impact on the project’s completion schedule.

Under the tailored building maintenance agreement, Nubian will meet any servicing, upgrade or expansion requirements of its system at The Nicholson complex.

Water quality and system performance are able to be monitored and controlled remotely by the building manager via both a web browser and an iPhone/ iPad app.

It is expected that the Nubian greywater plant will deliver a 30% reduction in potable water consumption.

Residents can easily take advantage of the laundry option by simply connecting to a pre-plumbed ‘third pipe’ outlet in each unit’s laundry and have immediate access to the high-grade, unmetered water supply for clothes washing.

As well as the potable water savings, the treatment and reuse of greywater also reduces, by up to a third, the discharge of wastewater. This is important to the increasingly capacityconstrained sewerage system as urban renewal progresses in The Nicholson’s neighbourhood.

Nubian Water Systems Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q641

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 19

case studies Overhaul for ageing wastewater infrastruture Hunter Water began upgrading Burwood Beach WWTP as part of a five-year program that will see approximately $700 million invested in water and wastewater improvement projects across the Hunter and Newcastle area.

By applying new techniques, Schneider Electric was able to deliver an effective migration within the tight time frames specified, without causing any disruption to household services. The plant’s PLCs were cutover in just five working days, a process which typically takes several months. The success of the project has reduced plant maintenance time, increased reliability and created a platform to monitor and measure energy consumption.

By avoiding the traditional ‘rip and replace’ mentality, Schneider Electric was able to help Hunter Water make best use of its existing infrastructure. The upgrade involved replacing the old SY/MAX Model 450 processor rack and eight of its 14 remote racks, and a Model 50 PLC, with Quantum Unity PLC hardware. The other six SY/MAX racks were retained but are now controlled by the new Quantum PLC using NR&D’s (Niobrara Research & Development, a Schneider Electric Collaborative Automation Partner) SERI-T module, a SY/MAX Ethernet Remote interface that enables better connectivity and information flow.

Commenting on the migration, Mark Mills, Manager Electrical & Mechanical at Hunter Water, explained: “As an operating plant serving a large proportion of Hunter Water customers, it was essential Burwood Beach remained operational throughout the migration process. Schneider Electric’s technical expertise, strong project management and competitive pricing meant that we were able to meet this requirement and ensure the project was completed within the tight eight-week schedule we demanded. The first phase of the migration process was very efficient, taking less than an hour instead of the typical time frame of several days.

“By involving partners such as NR&D and providing a single point of contact, Schneider Electric removed the headaches traditionally associated with projects of this nature. As Schneider Electric’s installed-base services team oversaw the project through every stage, we were confident everything was being done to minimise potential risks of the migration.

“Now we’ve standardised with Schneider Electric product and have the latest infrastructure in place, the plant is far more reliable and any operating problems can be tackled quickly and easily,” said Mills.

Schneider Electric (Aust) Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q668

20 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

case studies Real-time monitoring for flood predictability When major flooding struck northwest Victoria in 2010, flood plain inundation was monitored much the same as it had been for decades with manual markers and visual recording. It was a well-tried flood management practice, but one fraught with inaccuracy from misinterpretation and with inherent safety risks.

For Thiess Services’ regional hydrographer Rohan Oliver, it was evident that existing technology could be packaged to provide a cost-effective and easily deployable real-time data reporting system. The technological solution was provided by fellow Thiess Services hydrographer Mike Wheaton, who took up the research and innovation challenge with enthusiastic support and funding from Victoria’s Department of Sustainability and Environment.

The newly developed system was near completion when flooding returned to Victoria in 2012. The system was called into action and Thiess Services’ Portable Automated Logger System or PALS was born. Thiess Services’ regional hydrographer, Mark Pickles, organised deployment of 10 PALS units to the field to monitor the level and duration of flood inundation. Each unit took only a couple hours to deploy before it began transmitting real-time data at 10-minute intervals back to the hosted website.

Unlike the manual and labour-intensive methods previously employed, the PALS provided automated real-time flood level data and warnings via the cellular network. Pickles says this system became a valuable tool for authorities providing vital warnings to the general public. “It gave authorities an ability to see what the hydrograph looked like in areas where there was no historical data or local knowledge available. This enabled them to better predict when roads would be blocked or become passable or when areas would be flooded or free from inundation.”

The manual system had two major weaknesses. The first was that gauges would only be read sporadically and the recording of that information was prone to error and misinterpretation.

The second problem was that there could be significant safety risks associated with trying to access sites during major floods.

“Continual real-time monitoring and the uploading of near real-time data to a central website takes most of the guesswork out of interpreting the movement of the flood wave,” Pickles explains. For Mike Wheaton, who did much of the development work, PALS was a major achievement. “We were thrilled with the response. The feedback from the DSE Flood Group, Incident Control Centre and Bureau of Meteorology has been absolutely fantastic.”

Technology will continue to improve PALS with the potential to add video streaming and satellite data links for areas without cellular access. It has potential for short-term environmental monitoring with onboard sensors capable of recording a range of water quality and other parameters.

Thiess Corporate Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q649

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 21

What’s Next in Waste and Recycling?

Practical Seminars Innovative Solutions Alternative Waste Technology Pavilion The latest products from over 100 suppliers Network and share ideas with thousands of industry professionals

21 & 22 November 2012 Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre Darling harbour

Presented By:

Find Out More…

Whether you are a decision maker looking for answers to the challenges of modern waste and recycling or a supplier with a solution to present, don’t miss this opportunity to connect with thousands of industry professionals.

For information on exhibiting email Alex at ahaughton@divexhibitions.com.au or call 03 9261 4694.

To attend the expo visit www.awre.com.au

AU ST R AL AS I AN

E X P O 2 01 2

Every cloud has a solar lining

Solar intermittency the interruption of solar power due to cloud cover, night-time or the sun simply not shining brightly enough - has been a major factor in preventing Australia from fully embracing solar energy. Now, the CSIRO is working hard to understand how to manage this problem.

Managing solar intermittency in Australia

Lauren Davis

With things such as more solar electricity or wind electricity

on

the

electricity system, power companies will have to be much more careful in how they operate the electricity system.

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

I

n a year-long study funded by the Australian Solar Institute, the CSIRO - together with the Australian Energy Market Operator and the Energy Networks Association - has investigated the concerns around solar intermittency and its impact on electricity systems. ‘Solar intermittency: Australia’s clean energy challenge’ was a comprehensive study that included a review of worldwide research, collection and analysis of high-quality solar data and consultation with a range of industry experts from utilities, power system operators, large-scale renewable system operators and other industry players.

In the podcast ‘CSIROPod’, CSIRO engineer Dr Glenn Platt explained that solar intermittency is not so much of a problem now because of Australia’s fairly low solar energy usage - but, “it could be in the future, when we start

to see much more solar electricity generation on the roofs of our houses or in large-scale solar farms ... And so we’re trying to figure out how much of a problem it will be and when it will be a problem so we can figure out a way to solve those issues.”

During the project, it was found that in some cases local utilities limit solar power generation because they fear that adding solar power to the grid will make it harder to manage their electricity system. Indeed, Dr Platt admitted: “... it’s certainly a significant change for them in how they’ll have to operate the electricity system.

Traditionally, the electricity system’s been relatively steady, relatively easy to run; it just sits there and works. With things such as more solar electricity or wind electricity on the electricity system, power companies will have to be much more careful in how they

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 23

Solar intermittency

operate the electricity system and have to be fairly proactive when they turn things on and off.”

However, the report demonstrates that the current barriers to increasing the use of large-scale solar energy in the national grid can be overcome. Dr Platt discussed some of the methods which could make this happen.

“There’s a number of solutions to dealing with intermittency. Some of them range from just being able to predict what’s going to happen to the electricity out of a solar system; so if you know it’s going to drop suddenly in a few minutes, you can do something to compensate for that.”

He noted that in this case, “We really need two types of predictions.

We need fairly long-term ones, where we’re talking a few days out, how much electricity we might get out of the solar panels; and then we need very short-term ones, seconds or minutes out, how much electricity we’re going

to get. We need both types of predictions to be able to run the electricity system properly.

“Other approaches to dealing with intermittency involve energy storage or batteries … In those times, you might be able to charge a battery up when there’s lots of sunlight, and then when that cloud comes over your solar panels, you can discharge the battery and avoid that sudden drop in electricity output that would have happened otherwise.”

The report was also about seeing what other people have done around the world and how that applies to Australia’s own situation.

Dr Platt said, “We found that, surprisingly, there was actually quite significant disagreement between researchers around the world on this intermittency issue, and that has led us to think, well, we really need a lot more work here to get to the bottom of this, and in particular, to get to the bottom of this in Australia.”

24 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

Dr Platt has stated that both the solar and electricity network industries are interested in seeing how this challenge will be solved, and they’re happy to help along the way.

“We’re looking to work with both electricity companies and large-scale solar power systems to try and now get some practical measurements and measure actually what’s happening in real electricity networks out there, and then try and extrapolate from that to work out what that might mean for other systems in different parts of Australia.”

Hopefully, says Dr Platt, this will lead to a bright future for Australian solar power.

“I think that solar electricity will have a very significant part to play in Australia’s electricity mix in the future, and we’ll see continued growth of solar electricity to the point where it’s really having a major, major stake in where we get our electricity from in future years.”

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

research & development Abrupt increase in CO2 uptake by the land biosphere

Scientists have discovered an abrupt increase in the uptake of atmospheric carbon dioxide by the land biosphere (which comprises all of the planet’s plant and animal ecosystems) since 1988. Without this natural increase in uptake, the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere would probably have increased even more rapidly over the last two decades.

These new results have been reported in a recent paper in the journal Global Biogeochemical Cycles, written by an international team of scientists including NIWA, New Zealand, atmospheric scientist Dr Sara Mikaloff-Fletcher.

“The scientific community has known for a long time that the land biosphere takes up CO2. What’s new about this study is that we have discovered an abrupt shift towards more uptake by the land biosphere since 1988. Our team applied mathematical techniques that haven’t been widely used in this field to detect the shift,” says Dr Mikaloff-Fletcher.

The increase in uptake is a big number - about one billion tonnes of carbon per year. To put it into context, that is over 10% of the global fossil fuel emissions for 2010.

“While the increase was shown to be significant, the physical processes driving it remain a mystery.

It poses big questions for us. What caused this shift? What can it tell us about how land’s ability to take up CO2 is going to change in the future, and the sensitivity of the land carbon sink to climate?

How is that going to feed back into climate conditions in the future?” says Dr Mikaloff-Fletcher.

Ongoing work with land models and atmospheric data will be used to explore these questions. Between 1958 and the present, over half of the emissions of CO2 from human activities have been absorbed by the land biosphere and the oceans. But these natural sinks can be difficult to quantify directly.

Current climate change scenarios are based on observed levels of CO2 in the atmosphere, so they already include the effects of land and ocean carbon sinks. What is relevant to these climate change scenarios is the question of whether this increase in carbon uptake by land is temporary. If it is temporary, reducing CO2 levels may get even harder in the future.

The work is published in the paper ‘Identification and characterization of abrupt changes in the land uptake of carbon’, by Claudie Beaulieu, Jorge Sarmiento, Sara E Mikaloff Fletcher, Jie Chen and David Medvigy available on Global Biogeochemical Cycles website.

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 25

research & development Improving knowledge of groundwater assets

Portable device detects soil contamination Ziltek and CSIRO have announced the commercialisation of a handheld device for the rapid in-field analysis of petroleum contamination in soil.

The RemScan device uses an infrared signal to directly measure petroleum hydrocarbons in soil. The user simply pulls the trigger for a result in 15 seconds. The traditional method for measuring petroleum contamination involves sending soil samples to a laboratory and waiting several days for the results.

Petroleum contamination is a widespread global issue with recent events like the Gulf of Mexico spill attracting attention from communities concerned about the health and environmental impacts of such spills.

Dr Elad Dafny (left) and Professor Jochen Bundschuh will head the new Groundwater Research Group.

A new cutting-edge research group has been launched to build a clearer picture of the size and quality of Queensland’s most valuable underground resource - water.

The Groundwater Research Group (GReG), an initiative of the National Centre for Engineering in Agriculture and Faculty of Engineering and Surveying at the University of Southern Queensland, will conduct independent research to investigate the impact that the coal seam gas, mining and agriculture industries have on this precious resource.

GReG will be led by Professor Jochen Bundschuh and Dr Elad Dafny - both international leaders in the field of underground water research.

Professor Bundschuh said there was a large gap in the knowledge surrounding underground water in the region.

“It’s important that we build a more complete picture of the sub-surface water,” Professor Bundschuh explained.

“At the moment no one knows exactly what the outcomes will be in relation to the use of groundwater by industries like the coal seam gas industry.

“But it is very important that these investigations are done by a completely independent body, such as a university.”

Dr Dafny said using technology and expertise, it was possible to trace the path of a water droplet from rainfall, river flows and irrigation down through the earth and into the deep, underground aquifers.

He said one of the most important research goals was to determine the recharge rate and connectivity of underground aquifers in order to work out exactly how much water can be withdrawn without having negative long-term impacts.

Professor Bundschuh said Queensland’s Great Artesian Basin was one of the three biggest underground water resources in the world so it was vitally important to determine how it can be used at a sustainable level.

“If we contaminate this Basin there is no way to reverse it, so as a society we need to be very careful,” he said.

GReG researchers are currently meeting with stakeholders in both the private industry and at all three levels of government as part of the project launch phase.

26 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

Measuring petroleum hydrocarbons in soil cores.

The device allows users to make quicker and smarter clean-up decisions leading to significant cost savings. It also decreases the number of samples that require laboratory analysis, resulting in further cost reductions.

“We now have a way to quickly assess the risks at a spill site,” said Ziltek Managing Director Dr Richard Stewart.

A South Australian-based waste remediation company, Ziltek has had significant demand from the mining sector where petroleum spills are costly because they divert resources away from the core business. RemScan allows the emergency response team to quickly delineate the spill and validate the clean-up area with increased certainty - all in the same day.

“An average mid-size remediation firm in Australia will spend around $250,000 on soil petroleum analysis each year,” said Dr Stewart. “RemScan can cut this bill by up to 50%, resulting in an annual cost saving of up to $125,000 per annum.”

According to Dr Mike McLaughlin, Science Fellow with CSIRO Land and Water, it’s a great example of how CSIRO can work with small business to develop a product that will have real benefits for the community.

The technology is the subject of several global patent applications and has been granted full patent status in Australia. The development of the RemScan was supported through the HazWaste Fund (EPA Victoria), Bio Innovation SA and the Australian Government’s Enterprise Connect - Researchers in Business grant.

The research was supported by CSIRO Land and Water and the Water for a Healthy Country Flagship.

Ziltek Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q734

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

research & development Curtin receives funding for emissionreduction technology Curtin University researchers will develop new technology for co-firing of biomass and coal, reducing emissions as a result of reducing carbon dioxide emissions after receiving $1 million of burning less coal. state government funding.

“Using the existing coal-fired power plants to do the co-firing John Curtin Distinguished Professor Chun-Zhu Li, Director of makes the process one of the cheapest and quickest ways to lower the Fuels and Energy Technology Institute, will lead the project, carbon dioxide emissions from electricity generation by making which aims to replace some of the coal full use of the existing power generation © iStockphoto.com/ Alexander_Chernyakov burned in coal-fired power stations with capital equipment,” Professor Li said. biomass.

“This project will be a critical The technology rapidly and step in scaling up the novel pyrolysis efficiently converts biomass into vapour technology we have been working on and finely ground char particles so it and enabling us to make this technology can be efficiently burned with coal in available for commercial use.” existing coal-generation infrastructure.

Professor Li and his research The team will further develop and team will receive $1 million of state scale up the novel proprietary pyrolysis government funding from the Low technology that has been developed Emissions Energy Development (LEED) at Curtin University. Professor Li Fund to carry out the two-to-three year said the commercialisation of the project with Verve Energy. technology will solve a bottleneck For further information visit problem currently experienced in the energy.curtin.edu.au.

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 27

research & development Economic visions for desalination in Australia The days have long gone since salt was a valuable commodity and Roman soldiers were paid in it, but for Deakin University’s Research Professor in Public Policy, Professor Michael Porter, the issue of salt, more specifically desalination, will be worth $496,891 in research funding. This prestigious grant from the National Centre of Excellence in Desalination at Murdoch University is part of a $1.1m project which will look at the long-term and strategic role desalinated water could and should play across an expanding Australia, particularly the west, east and northern regions.

The focus of the project will be on desalination within Australia’s future water networks and will demonstrate how water grids, including desalinated sources, can enable us to secure a broader, more decentralised, sustainable and thus less vulnerable pattern of economic development. But the project will involve more than economics, bringing in cross-disciplinary expertise from the Smart Water Research Centre at Griffith University and Deakin University’s Centre for Memory, Imagination and Invention and School of Accounting, Economics and Finance.

“Technology is making great advances in extracting salt from water, in particular the sea,” Professor Porter said. “The costs are minor relative to the gains from regional development across Australia in areas within viable ‘pumping distance’. An infinite resource can now be delivered from coastal areas at affordable prices and by doing so has expanded the limits on what was the great constraint on ‘dry’ continents such as Australia.”

Professor Porter said apart from in Western Australia, desalinated or “insurance water” had been seen to have limited value, and recent rain in the Eastern seaboard had created a view that desalination plants were no longer needed.

“Reliable scientists generally indicate El Niño remains on the radar after 2012,” he said. “The reality is the desalination option needs to be considered within the broader bulk water supply networks and that is what our project will be doing.”

Professor Porter said the project team would model what Australia’s economic development would look like both with and without a comprehensive desalination plant system.

He said at the moment many people still see Australia as “water constrained”. “This is despite the huge investment in desalination capacity to date and the scope this provides for supplying new towns, expanded cities and developments.

“People are also generally ignorant of the huge potential for economic development that accompanies a completely reliable water supply as it lowers the risks of investment and lowers the costs of capital required.”

Professor Porter said there were also huge economic and social amenity losses associated with water restrictions.

Australian Sustainability is coming.

Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre | 8 & 9 November 2012 Combining a diverse exhibition with a multi-stream conference and seminar program, Australian Sustainability is an innovative new event dedicated to improving the sustainability of Australian businesses.

Be a part of it.

The essential business event for a smarter, brighter future.

www.australiansustainability.com.au

28 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

AUS - 0032

Strategic Advisory Partner

Carbon Offset Partner

Event Partner

Event Partner

Event Partner

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

Enviropacific Services’ (EPS) main role during the BHP Remediation works was the practical implementation of the Material Management Plan (MMP) (Maunsell, 1999). This involved the classification and management of contaminated material identified in preliminary investigations and encountered during earthworks.

During all works, a nominated NATA-accredited occupational hygienist conducted air monitoring to ensure that the concentration of fibres in the ambient air did not exceed 0.01 fibres/ mL of air.

Cleaning up legacy contamination at steelworks’ site

T

he former use of the site as a steelworks left a legacy of contamination which included asbestos, coal tar, hydrocarbons and heavy metals. The practical application of the MMP to the contamination involved identification of the specific contaminant and development of a management strategy. Material was identified

by EPS using visual and olfactory indicators to classify the material into one of three broad levels of contamination. The movement of each type of material was tracked from source location to placement area. For each specific type of contamination, particularly friable asbestos and free-flowing separate phase hydrocarbons (SPHs), detailed management plans were created to ensure that the material was managed appropriately and in accordance with the relevant standards and legislation.

A large volume of SPH contamination was encountered during works.

The material present was described by the EPA environmental auditor to be the worst he’d seen in NSW. It consisted of free-flowing coal tar and oil-impacted soil with the impacted area which covered 3600 m2 and ranged at depths up to 5

Rusmar Foaming Unit for odour suppression on contaminated stockpiles

m below the design sub-grade level. EPS conducted a delineation investigation of the contamination and identified a number of target locations where material was encountered above the water table.

Removal works consisted of excavating these target locations, classification of material load by load, segregating clean overburden from the target contamination and material tracking to the practicable extents. In total, approximately 5000 m3 of contaminated material was removed over a one-month period. EPS was also responsible for atmospheric monitoring of volatile hydrocarbons and odours.

EPS developed an air-quality monitoring plan that delineated personal protective equipment (PPE) response levels for personnel on site. On several occasions, works in the most contaminated areas was required to be undertaken using half-face respirators, Tyvek suits and gloves.

At other areas of the site, several types of asbestos material were encountered, including bonded sheeting, friable asbestos in soil and friable asbestos pipe lagging. Enviropacific was responsible for the control and management of this material during removal. During all works, a nominated NATA-accredited occupational hygienist conducted air monitoring to ensure that the concentration of fibres in the ambient air did not exceed 0.01 fibres/ mL of air. This limit was not breached at any stage during the following removal works on this site, indicating that the control measures implemented were both adequate and effective.

Difficult areas on the project EPS ensured that the required controls were implemented to prevent cross contamination and potential exposure of on-site personnel, and the environment to the contaminants.

Events at the time of works, such as the NCIG asbestos and Orica gas-release incidents, meant that public focus of environmental contaminants was elevated during works. Consequently, it was necessary to ensure that the relevant stakeholders were consulted during the process. This

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 29

Land remediation

involved conducting additional boundary monitoring for airborne asbestos fibres, odour and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) depending on the type of works being undertaken. By liaising with the stakeholders prior to commencing works potential difficulties were avoided.

The removal of the SPH material required both environmental and personnel monitoring to be conducted. EPS monitored and recorded readings at several locations at 30-minute intervals to ensure that the volatile gas concentrations and odour levels in the ambient atmosphere were maintained at a low level for the duration of works. Operators and ground personnel in the contamination zone were required to wear Tyvek suits and gloves.

The action limits were not reached during removal works.

New techniques on the project EPS has worked on multiple stages of the BHP Remediation Project, however job-specific procedures continued to

be developed throughout this stage of works to manage gross contamination on a case-by-case basis. This involved inducting site personnel into each system of work, outlining the risks and safe work practices depending on the material.

Project-specific procedures were developed for the on-site management of grossly contaminated materials including: • Personnel monitoring: Plant operating within the SPH contamination zone were fitted with monitors and carbon filters to ensure that personnel were not exposed to levels exceeding the TWA. Operators were in constant contact with EPS but were aware of the specific trigger levels and the actions required.

• A tmospheric monitoring program: EPS monitored and recorded readings at several locations during the gross SPH material removal in 30-minute intervals to ensure that the volatile

30 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

gas concentrations and odour levels in the ambient atmosphere were maintained at a low level for the duration of works. This regime was designed specifically for the SPH removal and the additional data provided a greater understanding of the behaviour of this type of contaminant for future works.

• D econtamination procedures: The importance of decontamination procedures for both plant and personnel was emphasised throughout the works. Site personnel were conscious of maintaining ‘clean’ and ‘dirty’ areas and ensured that plant did not cross between the two without being washed down prior. This extended to ensuring that refuelling the ‘dirty’ machines was completed in a way that was not going to contaminate the fuel tanker.

Enviropacific Services Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q670

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

n products & services

Fine bubble diffusers The Aquaconsult Aerostrip aerator is a fine bubble diffused aeration system. The aeration fine bubble diffusers feature low energy demand and can be used in a wide range of biological processes including continuous activated sludge, sequencing batch reactors and membrane bioreactors.

The fine bubble diffuser is claimed to feature: highest efficiency on market; long life greater than 15 years compared to 5-year industry standard; smallest bubble size on the market of 0.9 mm;

Energy measurement tool MiserWare, a spin-off company of Virginia Tech’s College of Engineering, is launching a free product that allows companies or individuals to measure their carbon footprint in terms of total power usage. The product, Granola Enterprise 5.0, has been redesigned in response to enterprise and data centre clients.

The company developed Granola Enterprise to empower organisations to immediately establish the baseline power consumption for their entire information technology infrastructure. From laptops to PCs to the data centre, organisations can quickly and easily evaluate their energy footprint without the need for expensive hardware.

In addition to the expanded measurement capabilities, the product offers options for energy savings. It is claimed to save up to 35% more energy than other products, which simply turn systems off when not in use, by also reducing energy waste while systems are in use. It is said to do this with no loss of availability or performance.

MiserWare http://www.miserware.com/index.php

HORIBA U-50 MULTI-PARAMETER WATER QUALITY METERS

oxygen transfer efficiencies up to 60%; aeration efficiency from 3-5 kg 0 2/ kWh; 0-100% control of airflow range; non-clogging diffuser membrane; intermittent operation capability; low maintenance requirements and costs.

Due to the high efficiency of the system, less power is said to be required to generate the same oxygen transfer when performance is compared to that of other systems.

Ovivo Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q349

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

pH Oxidation Reduction Potential Dissolved Oxygen Conductivity Salinity Total Dissolved Solids Seawater Specific Gravity Temperature Turbidity Water Depth GPS

AUSTRALIAN SCIENTIFIC Pty Ltd

PO Box 335 Kotara NSW 2289 - Ph 1800 021 083 - Fax 02 4956 2525 sales@austscientific.com.au - www.austscientific.com.au

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 31

n products & services

Independent balancing valve for HVAC

Internal compressor controller The Sigma Control 2 (SC2) from Kaeser is a PC integrated into a compressor. All current Kaeser rotary screw compressors and mobile air compressors are equipped with the product.

The controller is equipped with its own web server, which allows direct communication with the compressor via intranet/internet. Within the scope of the company’s teleservice facility, for example, password-protected compressor settings and operational data can be called up and adjusted on any PC with an internet browser without the need for additional software. Compressor operation and maintenance are therefore made even easier, as is regular monitoring of cost and energy efficiency.

The operating panel is dominated by an LED backlit, 256 x 128 pixel LCD screen on which plain text messages can be easily read. Nine LED indicators signal additional operational parameters and conditions, and 13 membrane keys labelled with easy-to-understand icons ensure unmistakeable input of the various commands.

The operating panel communicates directly with the product’s main control system. It comes with four interfaces for active and passive communication: with compressor (IO-BUS for up to six I/O modules); with Sigma Frequency Control speed controllers; with the internet and/or computer networks; with the user’s various control systems via plug-in communication modules.

Documentation of all operating conditions and parameters is essential to ensure optimum compressor performance.

This task is facilitated by the product’s memory feature, data from which can be easily and quickly uploaded to a computer thanks to the addition of an SD card slot. The same slot makes it possible to transfer and install software updates onto the unit using a pre-loaded SD card.

Updates can be carried out quickly and all operational settings are retained.

The product provides high-level security with its integrated RFID functionality. Not only does the technology ensure secure log-in, it also safeguards the system against unauthorised changes or operation.

Devex Systems has released the ABQM Pressure Independent Balancing and Control Valve (PIBCV), a highefficiency balancing solution for heating and cooling systems, manufactured by Danfoss.

Without pressure independent technology, it can be extremely challenging to maintain the balance of an HVAC system, but ABQM’s technology has now simplified this process through combining a compact automatic balancing valve and a control valve into one comprehensive valve structure. This results in good temperature control and performance and energy savings.

A recent test case was performed by Devex Systems and Danfoss at the University of Technology, Sydney, comparing two rooms of identical size, heat load and dedicated fan coil units; the control room was unchanged from its classic control (control valve plus manual balancing valve) while the other room was retrofitted with the ABQM valve to replace the control and manual balancing valve.

The findings were such that the room using ABQM had 25% energy savings and maintained a much more even and controlled climate, eliminating drastic temperature spikes throughout the day.

The efficiency and cost savings that can be achieved using this product has spurred the interest of engineers, specifiers and end users, including those in the field of building services/maintenance. The valve reduces system pumping costs and improves system heating/cooling equipment efficiency. It can be used in retrofit as well as new construction projects and is a good solution for controlling terminal units such as fan coils, chilled ceilings and air-handling units.

Devex Systems Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q422

Expanded valve offering and catalogue Noshok has announced its expanded valve product offering and enhanced valve manufacturing capabilities, available in the Noshok Valve Product Solutions catalogue. The valves, made in the US, have their performance ensured by being 100% helium leak tested to 1 x 10 -4 mL/s before they leave the factory.

The company’s valve portfolio features a comprehensive line-up of standard bore and large bore needle and manifold valves, including block and bleed valves in hard or soft seat/tip designs with ratings up to 10,000 psi.

The valves have been designed for high performance and increased pressure capabilities. The latest valves and valve options include the 3-valve double block and bleed needle valves and meter manifolds.

The company offers zinc-nickel plating on its carbon steel valves. Zinc nickel is an alloy which provides good corrosion resistance and long-lasting durability. Other benefits include increased deposit hardness, extended wear resistance and longer service life. ZnNi plating is WEEE and RoHS compliant.

Kaeser Compressors Australia

AMS Instrumentation & Calibration Pty Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q314

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q174

32 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

n products & services

LED light bulbs Liquidleds has recently expanded its collection of energyefficient, ecologically compatible bulbs. All the company’s bulbs are designed and manufactured to comply with energy-efficient parameters and, unlike other bulbs, are mercury free and fully recyclable.

2U and 3U LED light bulbs are made specifically for the Australian 240 VAC power supply with a special resistor to protect the bulbs from blowing in case of a voltage surge.

The dimmable bulbs offer a 360° warm white light spread, whereas most products offer a beam angle of just 120-270°.

The 2U LED bulb uses just 10 W (650 lm) and produces 50-60 W, and the 3U LED bulb uses just 15.6 W (850 lm) and produces a bright 70-80 W light. The heat generated by the bulbs is under 60°C, whereas heat generated by incandescent bulbs is anywhere between 200-300°C. Both bulbs are available in bayonet cap (B22) and Edison screw (E27) to fit most common household and business light fittings in Australia.

The bulbs are compliant with Australian and international RoHS, CE, UL, cUL safety standards and include TÜV Rheinland safety certifications. Both bulbs are estimated to last for over 10 years when operated for 4 h daily.

Portable pH, ORP, EC field kit The Hach sensION+ MM110 Portable pH, ORP, EC Field Kit is an all-in-one system that makes general water quality meter testing fast and simple.

Each system is designed to be used in a wide variety of applications and comes complete with everything the user needs to start testing. The guided navigation menu allows the user to follow simple prompts to set up measurements, reducing the time necessary to start testing and improving the accuracy of measurements.

The sensION+ MM150 Multi Sensor Meter is used with the 5048 sensor - a combination multiparameter electrode for determination of pH, conductivity, ORP and temperature.

The 5048 has a plastic body, non-refillable gel reference electrolyte and built-in temperature sensor.

LiquidLEDs Lighting Pty Limited

Hach Company

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N451

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q137

Six of the panels we have built so far in 2012

Our Sydney Systemhaus is ISO 9001 certified for the ‘development, assembly and distribution of customised system solutions,’ making Bürkert the ideal partner for large and small scope projects. In addition to standard panels, we engineer custom panels with pneumatics, I/O, transmitters and programming to meet your wider control system needs. So far this year we have worked on various control system and field instrument projects, including the panels you see above. For professionally built panels with full documentation, call on Bürkert.

Want to know more? Call AU 1300 888 868 or NZ 0800 BURKERT (287 537) Sustainability Matters Ad HP 201207.indd 1

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

25/07/2012 4:42:11 PM

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 33

n products & services

Oil-in-water monitor

Insertion mag flow meter

The Sigrist OilGuard provides online continuous monitoring of water for traces of mineral oils, using fluorescence principle. It can be used to monitor any water type, including process, waste, raw and potable water. Oil in water detection is often essential to meet licence conditions and to protect equipment.

Burkert has re-engineered its insertion electromagnetic flow meter Type 8045 to deliver more features for modern processing environments.

The flow meter now has a cut-off feature, designed to optimise use in low-flow applications. This function allows the operator to set a lower limit, under which the measurement value is set as zero. This parameter feeds through to display, totalisers, outputs and downstream process conditions.

A digital input has also been added to the electromagnetic flow meter. This allows control system initiated reset of totalising functions, Hold mode go-to, zero-point calibration and other functions. This feature has been added to facilitate remote-control capabilities, via site control systems. The extension of remote monitoring and control functionality in the magnetic flow meter reflects wider Burkert trends to use expanding mobile technologies for simple and costeffective process monitoring.

The unit has been updated with an adjustable backlit display for reading and programming in dim conditions. The re-engineered mag flow meter features integrated diagnostics to support local operation, with a simple and conspicuous green/orange/red LED status indication.

The all-purpose unit with no moving parts is suitable for demanding processes including those with particulate contamination. Processes must be conductive, measuring > 20 ¾s, and up to 400 mm process pipe diameter. Electromagnetic flow meters, also known as magnetic flow meters, use the principles of Faraday’s law with proportional mathematical algorithms to derive flow rate and flow volume.

Insertion mag flow meters poke a sensor finger with integrated electronics into the process flow, rather than replacing a portion of the pipework as full bore mag flow meters do. Insertion mag flow meter types have therefore proven highly advantageous where the extreme accuracy (~0.5%) of a full bore mag flow meter is not required and ~2% accuracy will suffice. Where an insertion mag flow meter may be used, up to 75% cost saving and far simpler installation and servicing result.

The mag flow meter is used extensively in the water treatment industry and water applications, as well as cleaning-in-place (CIP) systems.

The product offers virtually maintenance free operation by using a non-contact flow cell and a dual UV beam. These features eliminate signal drift, as commonly experienced with other types of monitors, and compensate for any UV light intensity degradation. The non-contact flow cell means no regular cleaning is required and ensures long term stable operation.

The product is also available in an IECEX certified hazardous area version.

B-R Controls Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q539

Burkert Fluid Control Systems Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q556

34 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

Boost for water treatment specialist Finding sustainable ways of improving water productivity has become a national p r i o r i t y. Wa t e r i s regarded as one of our most critical resources.

In order to preserve it, we need to find new ways to reduce water usage for agriculture and industry, protect our rivers and groundwater, and recycle urban and industrial wastewaters.

A

Melbourne business that develops innovative and sustainable water management solutions is part of the solution. AvivaPure, a clean technology business from Notting Hill in Melbourne, specialises in developing water treatment and re-use solutions for a broad range of clients, involving bore water, industrial wastewater, rainwater, seawater, river water and brackish groundwater.

AvivaPure recently installed a 30,000 L/day plant at Parliament House in Canberra, using and treating wastewater from a cooling tower to reopen five water features closed down during the drought.

The company is working towards commercialising its patented ECube and antifouling technology. To assist in further research and development of its products, AvivaPure sought business advice from Enterprise Connect and undertook a business review. The advice Purifying recycled water to and recommendawash Victorian trains tions opened up new connections for the To assist in further research and company with researchers from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and development of its products, Monash University.

AvivaPure sought business AvivaPure Director Anthea Palmer said advice from Enterprise Connect she contacted Enterprise Connect because she recognised the services offered could and undertook a business be beneficial to her business, especially in r e v i e w. T h e a d v i c e the early stages of product development. and recommendations Enterprise Connect put AvivaPure in opened up new connections for touch with business advisers David Knipe and Stuart Wallace, and linked the company the company with researchers with the Researchers in Business program. from the Royal Melbourne This program helps to place researchers Institute of Technology and from universities or public research agencies into businesses to help develop and Monash University. implement new commercial ideas.

AvivaPure collaborated with both the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology and Monash University to refine its water purification products.

“We could never have done it without Enterprise Connect,” Palmer said. “Stuart really listened to what we had to say and

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

recommended we contact universities. So we did and three universities put up their hands immediately.”

With assistance from Enterprise Connect, AvivaPure made valuable connections with researchers and accessed their knowledge, expertise and specialised technology.

“Establishing connections with researchers has been vital for AvivaPure,” Palmer said. “It has enabled us to get one of our products tested and will provide us with published data that will ultimately help to commercialise that product.”

AvivaPure employed a PhD student and a professor through Researchers in Business. This collaborative approach allowed the student to build knowledge and experience, and AvivaPure to undertake research into the problem of membrane fouling in water treatment plants and to develop ECube.

Palmer said she expected the benefits of the collaborations to centre mostly on the development of AvivaPure’s products.

However, AvivaPure has now formed lasting relationships with researchers at the universities, providing an opportunity for them to work together on future products and projects.

“Enterprise Connect provides stepping stones for businesses to improve collaboration and achieve innovations,” Palmer said.

Fact box - ECube AvivaPure has developed a large-scale, solar- and wind-powered accelerated evaporator called the ECube. This device reduces waste brine, floodwater, process water and trade waste and is claimed to be a cost-effective alternative to evaporation ponds. The patented pending system is modular with capacities up to 50,000 L evaporation per day. A 50 m long ECube module is designed to evaporate approximately 10 ML/year of wastewater or brine.

Using wind and solar power, the ECube system can evaporate at up to 35 times more water than an equivalent evaporation pond. Waste salt sediments are crystallised and recovered, enabling full process sustainability.

Enterprise Connect Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q419

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 35

n products & services

Three-phase DIN rail-mounted energy and power meters Energy management specialist Schneider Electric has announced the release of the iEM3000, EM3500 and PM3200 series three-phase, DIN rail-mounted range of energy and power meters; suitable for energy reporting, bill validation and cost-allocation applications. The meters vary from basic kWh meters for the most basic applications to advanced power meters capable of network monitoring applications.

The iEM3000 offers both direct connect and CT-connected meters, basic meters for manual reading, pulse outputs for water, air, gas, electricity, steam (WAGES) applications, and multi-tariff meters with digital inputs, digital outputs and communications, so users can divide consumption over four periods to help discriminate peak and off-peak consumptions, workdays and weekends, or different energy sources (ie, utilities versus generator).

All the meters share numerous design features that help save installation time, costs and space for panel builders. Easy comb connections and the separation of power and communication connections help increase safety and make wiring simpler for the installer.

Designed to be simple, reliable and efficient to use, the series is said to make energy efficiency more accessible for tertiary and industrial buildings. When integrated with energy management software like StruxureWare Power Monitoring 7.0, the meters gather the information necessary for electrical managers to optimise energy consumption in their buildings and enable energy efficient practices for their tenants.

Schneider Electric (Aust) Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q289

Turnkey rotary blowers Kaeser’s EB 291 C and EB 421 C rotary blowers are supplied connection-ready with integrated mains power supply equipment and monitoring. With drive powers from 18 to 75 kW, they cover deliveries of 15.2 to 40.1 m3/min at up to 1000 mbar (g) or 500 mbar (partial vacuum). Key applications for the blowers include pneumatic conveying of powdered goods, water treatment and generation of blowing air.

EBC blowers can be supplied ready for operation including all sensors and star-delta starter or with frequency converter for flexible speed control. The complete system packages are CE and EMC certified. A range of motors is available to accommodate various performance requirements, while noise and pulsation reduction measures ensure quiet operation at all times.

The space-saving component layout results in a compact footprint. As the blowers have been designed to allow all service work to be carried out from the front of the unit, it is possible to install several blowers side by side. Components such as control valves, which would normally be installed externally, are incorporated into the equipment and are controlled via the blower’s internal Omega Control controller.

The product’s Air Demand Analysis (ADA) makes it possible to determine how compressed air demand varies over time, how efficiently a blower station is operating and to what extent availability and efficiency can be further enhanced. Another powerful optimisation tool is the Kaeser Energy Saving System (KESS) - specialised planning software which enables different system variants to be simulated and compared with one another, and their respective potential savings to be calculated.

Kaeser Compressors Australia Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q305

36 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

n products & services

Flexible rising main

Vane flow switch The Series FS-2 Vane Flow Switch is an economical flow proving device. It is suitable for use in ‘flow or no flow’ applications in cold and hot water systems, proving flow in boilers, hot water heaters and chillers.

Paddles are adjustable to fit 1 to 8″ size pipe. Custom set points tailored for the application are enabled by fieldadjustable vane layers and a set point adjustment screw.

The product features an aluminum weatherproof housing for outdoor installation.

Dwyer Instruments (Aust) Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N756

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

Malcolm Thompson Pumps has announced the Aquaplus Flexible Rising Main, available in lengths of 200 m+ and offering the added convenience of extensive stock holdings.

Constructed from materials including polyurethane, with a polyester textile internal reinforcement, the product offers resistance to high temperatures and acid water. Other advantages include: corrosion resistance; reduced vibration and noise; energy saving; self-supporting layflat riser; suitable for irregular wells; permits higher water flow in narrow wells.

The Aquaplus Flexible Rising Main Series 25 is suitable for high-pressure pumps. It is also appropriate for potable water and meets the requirements of Certification NSF 61 and WRAS. The ease of handling reduces the time and cost involved when installing submersible pumps, while providing low maintenance and a long service life.

Additionally, the company can provide complete borehole packages, which include borehole pumps and head works.

The product is also available in a Series 10, suitable for lowpressure pumps, which boasts similar features and applications as the Series 25. They are suitable for a number of applications in the agricultural and mining industries, including obtaining underground water, water monitoring and dewatering.

Malcolm Thompson Pumps Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q056

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 37

n products & services

Energy monitor

Flow switch

The Enviroview Energy Monitor is an energy management solution for residential and commercial applications. It accurately monitors electricity, gas and water usage in real time, empowering the user to identify wasteful practices, reduce their carbon footprint and save money.

As the system is DIN rail mounted, it is easily installed into any electrical enclosure, the same as a standard circuit breaker. The main control unit is no larger than six electrical circuit breakers. Once the system is installed by a qualified electrician, which takes no more than 2 h, analysis can begin.

The user will be able to navigate through the system’s in-built web server with any internet-ready device. This enables the user to view the rates of usage and costs of electricity, gas and water, as well as carbon dioxide levels and solar power.

There are no ongoing hosting fees or extra programs needed.

The household starter kit enables the user to monitor three circuits and four pulsed inputs, while the commercial starter kit has the ability to monitor nine circuits and four pulse counts. These kits allow the user to refine their monitoring to pinpoint individual circuit usage, helping identify wasteful practices in certain areas. Being modular based, the product is expandable, with the capability to monitor up to 180 electrical circuits.

The Series V4 Flotect flow switch operates automatically to protect pumps, motors and other equipment against damage from reduction or loss of flow. It controls the sequential operation of pumps and controls dampers according to flow.

The unit automatically starts the auxiliary pumps and engines, and stops liquid-cooled engines, machines and processing when coolant flow is interrupted. It also shuts down the burner when air flow through the heating coil fails.

A magnetically actuated switching design provides high performance. There are no bellows, springs or seals to fail.

Instead, a free-swinging vane attracts a magnet within the solid metal switch body, actuating a snap switch by means of a simple lever arm.

Dwyer Instruments (Aust) Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q410 AEA2 0 1 2 AD9 . p d f Pa ge

Envirovision 1

Contact 1 8 / 0info 7 /and 1 more 2 , items 1 2 like : 5this 6 atPwf.net.au/Q696 M

THE CLEAN ENERGY SHOW – BRINGING YOU THE POWER OF CHANGE • • • • •

www.all-energy.com.au

Australia’s largest international clean energy event Free-to-attend exhibition Free-to-attend multi-stream conference Free networking reception for all registered attendees Great value exhibition and sponsorship packages

MELBOURNE CONVENTION & EXHIBITION CENTRE

10/11 OCTOBER 2012

4TH YEAR

REGISTER

ONLINE

NOW

ALL-ENERGY AUSTRALIA 2012 is a free-to-delegate, business-to-business exhibition, conference and networking forum showcasing renewable energy, clean energy, sustainable transport and energy efficiency. It targets no single solution, but embraces all opportunities within the clean energy market.

SUPPORTED BY

LEARNED SOCIETY PATRON

FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL +61 2 9422 2500 38 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

PLATINUM SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSORS

info@all-energy.com.au www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

Thousands of organisations across Australia are missing out on potential financial aid that could help them combat the impact of the carbon tax, says Energy Action. The start of a new financial year provides an opportunity to review what funding options are available.

It is surprising to see that so many businesses are worried about the impact that the carbon tax will have on them, but remain unaware of what help is available.

© iStockphoto.com/ Cristian Baitg

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

More than 9 in 10 businesses unaware carbon tax assistance is available

D

espite millions of dollars of accessible aid, a survey by Energy Action found that: • 93% of businesses are unaware or unsure about the government assistance, funding or grants available to them.

• N early three-quarters (71%) of organisations believed that they would not receive sufficient compensation from the government against the carbon cost impact, with a further 19% saying they are unsure if they will.

Now is the perfect opportunity for Australian organisations to look at what grants are available and plan for the coming year.

Edward Hanna, Director of Energy Efficiency & Sustainability at Energy Action, said: “It is surprising to see that so many businesses are worried about the impact that the carbon tax will have on them, but remain unaware of what help is available. Of the businesses surveyed, 70% said that they had begun investing in energy

efficiency and sustainability. It is vital they know what help is available to minimise costs.”

Despite the lack of knowledge, there is a strong appetite for information with 84% being interested in energy efficiency and sustainability measures for their business.

What grants are available?

The government has pledged $800m in grants for the manufacturing industry through the Clean Technology Investment Program, a central part of the Clean Energy Future Plan. $200m has been set aside specifically for the Clean Technology and Food and Foundries investment Program. These grants can significantly reduce the cost of investing in energy efficiency and are now more flexible than ever, with a range of investments that enable efficiency savings permitted (including replacing equipment). In order to access these grants, organisations must meet several requirements and undertake a feasibility study to describe the potential project and its savings in detail. Energy Action has advised many organisations on feasibility and evaluated potential savings; and according to the company, it has a 100% success rate for grant application.

Hanna explains: “It is critical for businesses to understand, once approved, funding is guaranteed, even if the government or its policies change.

Many organisations are opting to delay applications in search of political certainty. Unfortunately, valuable opportunities to improve their energy efficiency today, while funding is available, are simply passing these organisations by.

Once these grants and funding are exhausted, these financial opportunities

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 39

Carbon tax assistance

will no longer exist. Businesses need to be aware these opportunities are time critical.”

What financing options exist?

In addition to the introduction of the carbon tax, many businesses fear increasing energy price rises, with 48% of respondents expecting the impact to be severe on the cost of running their business. As government grants are typically paid in instalments, the worry of high initial outgoings combined with rising energy prices can make organisations reluctant to invest in energy efficiency.

One way to overcome this barrier is to look at financing options. Energy Action has been selected as a foundation member in the Low Carbon Australia ‘Energy Smart Finance Program’, enabling it to help customers access low-cost financing to support energy-efficiency projects.

This can result in positive cashflow for some organisations, where loan repay-

ments are less than the savings made in the same period. For larger projects where this may not be the case, Energy Action may be able to assist businesses fund some of the shortfall.

Edward Hanna said: “It was encouraging to see that almost a third (29%) of companies think investing in energy efficiency is very important, but cashflow can be a problem. Energy Action understands that even with funding, that pressure can make investing in energy efficiency difficult. Ultimately investing in energy efficiency is a benefit to organisations in the long term.”

Energy Action works with Low Carbon Australia to help organisations upgrade to the latest energy-efficient technologies and manage their cashflow preservation. The journey to energy efficiency often requires a level of sacrifice (ie, sacrificing funds, physical square metres on site, delays in productivity while projects are being implemented, etc) in exchange for lower energy costs

Save chemicals Ideal for abrasive lime or PAC metering, or sludge removal.

Save time Jog-out, jog-in. One wearable part.

Save hassle Self priming, dry running, 9.5m lift.

and often improved quality, productivity or staff/customer experience. Partnering with an independent energy consultant that understands the application of technology and the future of energy costs can help businesses assess these sacrifices, establishing the best path for the maximum benefit.

Hanna added: “With the continued rising costs of energy bills on businesses across Australia, investing in energy efficiency makes more sense than ever. We are seeing a growing trend in organisations embracing energy efficiency as a process of continuous improvement, rather than a one-off project. The most successful organisations at implementing energy efficiency have made long-term energy management plans and work towards the end goal COMPONENTS while monitoring the current situation for any benefits that can be found.”

CONTROL Energy Action

COMPONENTS

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q645

Control Components

Control Components

See… it’s that

Level Measurement

CONTROL COMPONENTS

Control easy!

Components

Reliable, energy-free level measurement solution for storage and process applications

Peace of mind Rugged 24/7 duty.

Weka Visual leVel indicators • Visible Level readings at 10 metres+ • Locally manufactured for short lead-times • Switches & transmitters for Ex applications • Long, maintenance free lifespan • Available in SS, CPVC, UPVC & PVDF

1300 WMBPUMPS enquiries@wmbpumps.com.au www.wmbpumps.com.au

40 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

TAKE CONTROL

CCEZY.COM.AU 02 9542 8977

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

n products & services

Digital positioners Bürkert’s digital positioners have zero air bleed and consumption at rest, drawing air only when the pneumatic device moves.

Traditional positioners bleed high air volumes, with one positioner reporting 540 L/h consumption at low pilot-pressure.

The zero-bleed positioners are said to reduce compressed air use dramatically, saving money and power and promoting ecofriendly processing.

The Types 8792 Positioner and 8793 Positioner-Process Controller suit rotary and linear process valves, as well as virtually any pneumatically controlled instrument including valves, cylinders and dampers. The positioners are available for direct or remote mount, all with IP65/67 housings for robust service in challenging environments.

Using the company’s piloting technology to deliver high precision, the digital positioners are able to control to up to 150 L/min for both spring return and double-acting actuators.

This represents a significant jump on traditional positioner flow rates, giving far wider scope of use.

Burkert Fluid Control Systems Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q689

Submersible sump pump system The Tsurumi PU series automatic submersible sump pump system is designed to be simple to set, without the complication and expense of a control box. This means no additional wiring or power is required, other than the standard pump power cable.

The pumps are suitable for both continuous and intermittent sump applications. They are controlled by float switches which are simply adjusted to the required activation height.

This means any plumber can control when the pumps start and stop and whether they work together or alternate.

The system uses two automatic pumps, one of which has a third, additional, float switch. The pumps automatically switch on when the water level rises and switch off when no longer required. If the water continues to rise both pumps will work together until the level drops to the pre-set level.

The pumps in the PU series produce flows of up to 800 L/min, with vertical heads of 16 m. The series includes both three-phase and single-phase options with two pole motors (up to 1.5 kW) and are available with 1.5, 2 and 3” discharge bores.

The pumps are particularly suited to pumping wastewater, sewage and even rainwater that may contain solids.

Australian Pump Industries Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/M837

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 41

NEW White Papers

now available online!

Flammable gas detection technology - selection and application tips

n products & services

Oxygen analyser Michell Instruments has released details of the XTP601, the latest addition to its range of oxygen analysers.

Based on the highly stable, thermo-paramagnetic sensor, the product provides fast, accurate measurements of oxygen levels in various background gases. Capable of measuring oxygen from 0-1% up to 0-25% and suppressed zero ranges, such as 90-100%, the analyser provides solutions for applications ranging from biogas plants to monitoring blanketing gases in oil tankers.

Gas detection technology should always be chosen based on the hazard faced. Selecting the right technology and applying it correctly will prevent injuries, save lives and save money in the long term. This white paper provides insightful selection and application tips - download now to ensure you are prepared.

Global networks for M2M M2M has a relatively short history, having been around since 2000 when it became apparent that communication between machines carrying out similar functions would be a good idea.

It has since broadened into communication between dissimilar devices, examples being medicine and mining. This eBook explains more about this technology.

Business impact of application performance problems Issues with the performance of business-critical applications can cause deterioration of an organisation’s business performance.

Slow applications that support key business processes can cause revenue loss and a decline in customer satisfaction and employee productivity. To ensure you’re informed, be sure to read this white paper.

Building a storage environment for super-efficiency The growth of stored data is being driven by a need to leverage new data sources (web-based social media, for example) to create new business opportunities. The current ways of managing data in this environment are not sustainable, however, so IT administrators must therefore respond by becoming more efficient.

For these and more White Paper downloads, visit www.sustainabilitymatters.net.au/white_papers

42 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

The product is configurable to suit specific applications and budgets, with three options: blind transmitter version (settings, controls and readings accessible via application software); transmitter with status LEDs (settings, controls and readings accessible via application software); and full display analyser (settings and readings are accessible with on-screen controls or via application software). All of these options may be rated for either safe or hazardous area use. Hazardous area classifications are available for ATEX, IEC Ex with CCSAUS pending approval.

The full display version of the product has a touch-screen interface to enable easy operation without needing to remove the lid. This means that users can calibrate, change settings and interrogate the instrument in the hazardous area without the need for a ‘hot permit’. Menus allow easy access to information on: oxygen concentration; analyser status; a graph showing oxygen trends over a user-defined time period; alarm history; minimum and maximum concentrations; and other parameters to aid diagnosis of plant conditions.

Free software is available for the product to enable users to monitor, operate and calibrate any version of the instrument remotely via a PC or control system.

AMS Instrumentation & Calibration Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N474

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

n products & services

Immersion variant of high-pressure pump The immersion pump type called Movitec VCl is a vertical, multistage centrifugal pump which is used for handling coolants, condensate and lubricants for machine tools.

Potential fields of application include industrial recirculation systems, cooling water circuits, washing plants and pressure boosting in general process applications.

In order to efficiently cover the largest possible range of flow rates and heads, the Movitec VCI will be available in five sizes and with different numbers of stages.

The maximum flow rate is 27 m 2/h and the maximum discharge head is 250 m. The permissible fluid temperature ranges between -20 and +120°C. The pump sets are intended for installation on tanks, with the pump’s hydraulic section being immersed in the fluid pumped, while the motor is dryinstalled. The maximum immersion depth is 732 mm. The design combines the benefits of submersible pumps with those of dryinstalled pump/motor sets. It constitutes a particularly compact solution. As the largest part of the pumps is inside the tank, fewer pipes and valves are needed. This reduces costs and helps optimise suction conditions.

The pump can be fitted with blind stages to ensure that the pump’s inlet section is close to the bottom of the tank and that the fluids pumped are recirculated well. Hydraulically optimised stainless steel stage casings and impellers make for efficiency. This, in turn, keeps down energy consumption and operating costs. Furthermore, there is very little heat dissipation into the fluid pumped.

Because of its compact, easy-to-replace, cartridgetype mechanical seal and the automatic return of small amounts of leakage into the tank, the Movitec VCI is easy to maintain and has a long service life.

As a standard, the pump sets are equipped with a standardised IE2 motor. On request, they can be supplied with an IE3 motor. It is also possible to operate the pump sets using a frequency inverter. This increases system efficiency and allows the flow rate to be matched to actual demand.

Valve and block assembly system Bürkert has released a modular valve and block package designed to help build systems quickly and easily. The Inox system incorporates an all stainless steel pneumatically actuated valve and standard block modules with eight standard port channels. The ports are drilled open in accordance with block channel design, bolted together and valves screwed in to complete the block system.

Strainers, check valves and sensors are easily included in block construction.

Inox block systems support media to 180°C, 16 bar and 600 mm 2/s viscosity and have high chemical resistance for process media including water, alcohols, oils, fuels, hydraulic fluids, salt solutions, alkali solutions, organic solvents, steam, air and more. System configuration eliminates the use of elbows and t-adapters, and reduces connections to a minimum to avoid leaks and deliver high overall system performance relative to traditional block solutions.

Small footprint, flexible configuration and fast assembly make the system suitable for manufactured blocks including temperature systems for injection moulding or die-casting tools, chemical dispensing in water or mineral processing, steam sterilisation systems and any solution where high system capability and environmental integrity is necessary. Distributing, collecting and mixing systems with individual valve flow of up to 2.4 m 3/h are suited to the product.

The valves, block modules, bushing and other elements are cast 316 L stainless steel, with PTFE valve seals and graphite gaskets. The bodies of the valves have integrated, self-adjusting packing glands to ensure high media tightness over the complete service life. The externally piloted valves have a compact design and are available with threaded, external threaded and welding connection ports. Valves may be normally open or closed, with flow direction below the seat.

KSB Australia Pty Ltd

Burkert Fluid Control Systems

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/N396

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/Q171

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 43

PROCESS CONTROL | AUTOMATION | INSTRUMENTATION | SAFETY

Process Technology Regional Roadshow

2012 8

NOW IN ITS TH

YEAR

vend NEW or sess training ions

Western Australia

Coming soon ... to a city near you!

If you work in mining, minerals, metals processing, utilities, food and chemical manufacturing and processing then the Regional Roadshows are designed for you.

Don’t miss out ...

NEW TRAINING SESSIONS FOR 2012 • Tune a PID flow loop • Troubleshoot a simple TCP/IP industrial ethernet network using four simple utilities • Write, install and test a motor control PLC ladder logic program • Basics of Modbus data communications protocol installation and troubleshooting • Arc flash protection and protective safety equipment • Variable speed drives— testing and troubleshooting

Perth • 10 Sept Bunbury • 11 Sept Rockingham • 12 Sept Karratha • 14 Sept

Supported by:

Training by:

Exhibiting companies include:

Includes FREE: • Access to exhibition • Training sessions - NEW • Lunch and networking drinks • Product demonstrations • Prize draws

To register or for more info visit: www.regionalroadshows.com.au

Resource centre Legislation, governance, programs and industry links to help guide your sustainability development.

Sustainability and climate change governance survey

In 2011, NCSI conducted an online Corporate Environmental Sustainability & Climate Change Governance Survey. The survey was aimed at Australian senior and executive corporate managers and looked at current Australian corporate practices and aspirations concerning environmental sustainability and climate change.

NCSI has developed a detailed report based on the information uncovered by the survey, which attracted over 100 respondents from across 22 industry sectors.

It is clear from the survey results that most organisations have completed early steps in sustainability management with 75% of organisations having a dedicated environmental team.

The survey confirms 65% of respondents are measuring their carbon emissions. Reporting is less common than measurement, with 55% of respondents reporting their carbon emissions.

There was a high number of organisations that had completed energy-efficiency and reduction plans. Energy-efficiency measures have been implemented by 81% of respondents. Š iStockphoto.com/ Cristian Baitg A quarter of the respondents that had implemented energy-efficiency measures had not undertaken an energy audit. Fewer than a half of the respondents with energy-efficiency measures have set targets for carbon emissions. There is a small but significant portion (21%) of organisations that are offsetting carbon emissions.

Organisations have also started looking at sustainability more broadly across their supply chain with 44% of respondents reporting procurement policies that give preference to environmentally preferable products, services and suppliers. With less than half of the respondents implementing sustainable procurement policies, this is expected to be an emerging focus area.

Full details of the survey report are available at: http://www.ncsi.com.au/Corporate-Environmental-Sustainability-ClimateChange-Survey-2011-Report. www.ncsi.com.au

Business sustainability event

The Australian Sustainability Conference & Exhibition 2012 is dedicated to improving the sustainability of Australian businesses. Being held from 8 to 9 November at Sydney Convention & Exhibition Centre, the event combines a diverse exhibition with an interactive multistreamed conference and seminar program.

The exhibition encompasses a wide range of sectors, which are reflected through the exhibitor mix.

Covering emerging trends and strategic directions, the conference program combines thought leadership from industry experts from a variety of specialist backgrounds. www.australiansustainability.com.au

Editor Carolyn Jackson email: sm@westwick-farrow.com.au Chief Editor Janette Woodhouse

Westwick-Farrow Publishing A.B.N. 22 152 305 336

Head Office Cnr. Fox Valley Road & Kiogle Street, (Locked Bag 1289) Wahroonga NSW 2076 AUSTRALIA Ph: +61 2 9487 2700 Fax:+61 2 9489 1265

If you have any queries regarding our privacy policy please email privacy@westwick-farrow.com.au

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

Advertising Sales NSW/QLD Nicola Fender-Fox Ph: 0414 703 780 nfender-fox@westwick-farrow.com.au

Editorial Assistant Lauren Davis

VIC/SA/WA Lachlan Rainey Ph: 0402 157 167 lrainey@westwick-farrow.com.au

Publisher Geoff Hird

NZ - Gemma Burr Ph: 0800 442 529 gburr@westwick-farrow.com.au

Art Director/Production Manager Julie Wright

USA - Huson International Media East Coast Ph: 212 268 3344 West Coast Ph: 408 879 6666 ralph@husonusa.com

Art/Production Tanya Scarselletti, Jeanette Teuma, Colleen Sam Circulation Manager Sue Lavery circulation@westwick-farrow.com.au Copy Control Mitchie Mullins

UK - Huson International Media Ph: 1932 56 4999 gerryb@husonmedia.com ASIA - Lachlan Rainey Ph: +61 (0) 402 157 167 lrainey@westwick-farrow.com.au Subscriptions For unregistered readers price on application.

Printed and bound by Webstar +61 2 9748 0020 Print Post Approved PP 255003/03439 ISSN No. 1834-917X

March 2012 total CAB Audited Circulation (Aust & NZ)

5773 readers (77% personally requested) All material published in this magazine is published in good faith and every care is taken to accurately relay information provided to us. Readers are advised by the publishers to ensure that all necessary safety devices and precautions are installed and safe working procedures adopted before the use of any equipment found or purchased through the information we provide. Further, all performance criteria was provided by the representative company concerned and any dispute should be referred to them. Information indicating that products are made in Australia or New Zealand is supplied by the source company. Westwick-Farrow Pty Ltd does not quantify the amount of local content or the accuracy of the statement made by the source.

August/September 2012 - Sustainability Matters 45

In my opinion

Broader producer responsibility

T Russ Martin has over 22 years’ experience in product stewardship, public policy and sustainability in the US, Australia and Middle East. This includes roles in government and as an advisor to governments and industry. He is Director of consultancy MS2 (www.

MS2.com.au) and President of the Global Product Stewardship Council (www.GlobalPSC.net).

Shifting waste management and recycling costs from local programs to producers will remain a priority in developing product stewardship schemes.

hese are interesting days for product stewardship. The days of strict extended producer responsibility (EPR) being forced by governments upon unsuspecting and entirely unwilling industries have waned. Recycling at end of life is no longer seen as the sole means of demonstrating product stewardship. Broader aspects of sustainability and their roles in reducing the life-cycle impacts of products across supply chains are recognised more than ever before.

Globally, the business case for product stewardship and EPR (broadly defined) is increasingly recognised and championed.

Major multinationals are promoting and actively lobbying in favour of broad product stewardship and EPR approaches.

Why, and why now? Enough different approaches have been adopted in jurisdictions to create a patchwork of programs that can increase program costs. As they should, businesses seek to reduce their costs and create uniform solutions that are capable of crossing borders. In Australia, there's an estimated $147 million net benefit to having nationally consistent product stewardship approaches.

Producer responsibility organisations are trying to recover an increasingly diverse range of products and having to reach more marginal or remote locations while providing value to producers. Approaches that are nationally or internationally harmonised are therefore quite appealing.

Industry leaders such as Nestlé Waters North America are now actively lobbying for EPR legislation not only to address ‘free riders’ but also due to long-term concerns about the availability and quality of feedstocks.

Similar concerns are causing electronics manufacturers to promote product stewardship internationally. Of even greater concern though, is the significant risk to brand reputations of electronics being dumped in places such as Ghana where citizens are being exposed to toxic fumes as part of recovering precious metals. These concerns are resulting in stronger uptake of internationally recognised recycling standards and certification schemes for electronics.

46 Sustainability Matters - August/September 2012

Building upon stakeholder consultations and a publicly released discussion paper, the Australian Government will be releasing in the near future a framework for accrediting voluntary product stewardship schemes under Australia's Product Stewardship Act 2011 (the Act). Australia and New Zealand have been willing to give producers the opportunity to demonstrate the effectiveness of voluntary approaches in demonstrating product stewardship before regulating. This approach is being watched closely by stakeholders in other countries, especially industry stakeholders.

Programs that give producers flexibility in delivering against agreed performancebased program outcomes, as exemplified

by British Columbia, are being scrutinised by governments and industries keen to implement product stewardship while minimising regulatory interference. Such approaches are mutually beneficial, and therefore more likely to be implemented in the foreseeable future.

Prioritisation of products and schemes has been a key aspect of product stewardship for decades, and priorities have certainly evolved over time. Various countries, including Australia and New Zealand, will soon be taking a closer look at which products should be targeted for future product stewardship or EPR efforts.

The Australian Government is currently making appointments to a Product Stewardship Advisory Group authorised under the Act to advise the Minister on products to be addressed.

Shifting waste management and recycling costs from local programs to producers will remain a priority in developing product stewardship schemes.

In the US, an estimated $2 billion in savings to public programs would result from product stewardship for electronics, paint, batteries, medical sharps from home use, fluorescent lighting, mercury thermostats, pesticides and phone books.

As public budgets get tighter and tighter, expect industries putting these products on the market to be asked to bear a much greater share of program costs.

The views expressed do not necessarily represent those of the Global Product Stewardship Council.

www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au

FREE SUBSCRIPTION! Sustainability Matters is FREE to industry professionals in Australia and New Zealand.

To continue receiving your free copy you will be asked to register every three years.

2 quick ways to register: www.SustainabilityMatters.net.au/subscribe Fax this completed page to +61 2 9489 1265

and fax to +61 2 9489 1265 OPTIONS digital

print

both

I would also like the SustainabilityMatters.net.au eNewsletter

My main job function is (Select from List A)

My organisation's main industry sector is (Select from List B)

Wrapper number: (if known)

Name: Job Title: Organisation Name: Address:

Postcode: Phone No:

Country: Mobile:

Fax No: Email: Signature:

SM

Date: PRIVACY INFORMATION: www.westwick-farrow.com.au/pages/privacy.asp

1 Management - Corporate/General 2 Management - Manufacturing/ Engineering/Specialist 3 Engineer - Electrical 4 Engineer - Electronics 5 Engineer - Process 6 Engineer - Project 7 Purchasing/Procurement 8 Technician - Maintenance/Service 9 Technician - IT 10 Technical Officer 11 Scientific Officer - R&D 12 Scientific Officer - QA 13 Consultant 14 Contractor/Tradesperson 15 OHS/EHS 16 Education/Training 17 Student-Undergraduate/Apprentice 18 Analyst 19 Sales/Marketing

List (B) Industry

Please complete this form in full I would like to receive this magazine

List (A) Job Function

1 Agriculture/Rural 2 Building/Construction 3 Chemicals/Allied Products 4 Communications Systems 5 Defence/Military 6 Education 7 Emergency Services/Law Enforcement/Security 8 Engineering Services 9 Environmental Services 10 Finance/Banking/Insurance/Legal 11 Food Industry - Bakery 12 Food Industry - Beverages 13 Food Industry - Confectionery 14 Food Industry - Dairy 15 Food Industry - Fruit & Vegetables 16 Food Industry - Meat 17 Government - Federal 18 Government - State 19 Government - Local 20 Health/Hospital 21 Instrumentalities (eg CSIRO) 22 IT - Networking 23 IT - Security 24 IT - Storage 25 IT - Wireless 26 Laboratory - Analytical 27 Laboratory - Clinical/Medical 28 Laboratory - Life Sciences 29 Logistics/Transport/Warehouse 30 Manufacturing 31 Mining 32 Oil/Gas/Coal 33 Packaging 34 Processing 35 Retail/Wholesale/Hire 36 Service/Maintenance 37 Telecommunication 38 Testing/Certification (eg NATA) 39 Utilities

Early Bird Special Register before 3rd August to

SAVE $200

KEYNO

TE

KEYNO

TE

BENEFITS OF ATTENDING • PIONEER innovative waste management solutions for your organisation The Hon. Don Farrell Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability

KEYNO

Adam Read Practice Director – Waste Management & Resource Efficiency AEA, United Kingdom

• HELP promote the concept and adoption of Zero Waste principles • UNDERSTAND the critical factors in achieving behavioural change

TE

• DISCOVER how changes in product stewardship legislation has been accepted by industry

Gunter Pauli Author The Blue Economy

Ian Harvey Manager Strategy and Programs Zero Waste SA

• LISTEN to case studies of ambitious recycling and resource recovery projects from the commercial and industrial sector • DISCUSS the true meaning of Zero Waste - to your business and to society at large • EXPLORE the potential of alternative waste management technologies • LEARN about the immediate and long-term impact of the carbon tax and increasing landfill levies

Amanda Keogh Sustainability Manager Fuji Xerox

Sam Gill Manager Cleansing and Waste City of Sydney

Sponsorship & Exhibition Opportunities

Contact Jon Treherne on: T: +61 2 8908 8516 | E: jon@acevents.com.au ORGANISED BY

REGISTER TODAY

ENDORSED BY

MEDIA PARTNER

www.acevents.com.au/zerowaste2012 TEL: (02)8908 8555