Environment

Global carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuels continue to increase

Global carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions from fossil fuels have reached a record high in 2024 but total emissions from fossil fuel and land use changes over the last decade have stabilised, according to the Global Carbon Budget. The report is produced by leading research international organisations, including CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, as part of the Global Carbon Project. It provides an overview of the global carbon cycle, including both natural and human-induced emissions. CO₂ is a long-lived greenhouse gas, and along with methane and nitrous oxide, it leads to human-driven climate change. It can persist for hundreds of years in the atmosphere. CSIRO’s Dr Pep Canadell, Global Carbon Project Executive Director, said the report shows global CO₂ emissions from fossil fuels continue to rise despite significant increases in the adoption of renewable energy. “We have seen a 0.8 per cent increase in global CO₂ emissions from fossil fuels in 2024, compared to 2023,” Dr Canadell said. “This equates to a total of 37.4 billion tonnes of CO₂ projected to be emitted in the atmosphere from fossil fuel use this year alone.” Key findings: · The growth in 2024 fossil emissions comes on top of a 1.4% growth in 2023 emissions. · CO₂ emissions from land-use changes such as deforestation have on average declined over the past decade. This means total emissions from both fossil fuels and natural sources have stabilised over the last decade. · Globally, fossil fuel CO₂ emissions come from coal (41 per cent), oil (32 per cent) and gas (21 per cent). · China contributed 32 per cent of total global CO₂ emissions, followed by the United States (13 per cent), India (8 per cent) and the European Union (7 per cent). · By the end of 2024, CO₂ concentrations are projected to reach 422.5 parts per […]

Partnership to revolutionise sustainable building materials industry

Wandarra Pty Ltd and Hexcore Pty Ltd’ strategic partnership combines Wandarra’s expertise in industrial hemp production with Hexcore’s innovative hemp composite technologies, setting a new standard for eco-friendly construction solutions. This partnership aims to transform the industrial hemp construction industry across Australia, in doing so addressing the Australian Government’s key initiatives in Carbon Reduction Emission and Housing Construction targets, supporting environmental sustainability by leveraging Wandarra’s regional resources and Hexcore’s cutting-edge technologies. Wandarra Pty Ltd, “BEyond Green”, is a leader in vertical integration of industrial hemp cultivation and processing, bringing in its cutting-edge ThriveTech™ – “Grow Better Now” and Trace360™ – “Seeds to Success” platforms to the table. These technologies ensure maximum yield, quality and traceability, making Wandarra a pioneer in the hemp industry. . Key Highlights of the Joint Venture: Innovative Products: The collaboration will focus on developing a new range of hemp-based construction materials that offer superior strength, durability, and sustainability. Environmental Impact: By leveraging the carbon-sequestering properties of hemp, the joint venture aims to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of construction projects whilst improving the regenerative properties of soil used for hemp crops. Economic Growth: This partnership is set to boost the North Queensland economy by creating advanced manufacturing jobs, creating long term demand for hemp crops with regional farms, alleviate building material shortages, investing in critical infrastructure and regional development. Research and Development: Both companies will pool their R&D resources to drive innovation and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving sustainable materials market. Hexcore Pty Ltd, renowned for its range of existing sustainable hemp composite materials, has been at the forefront of creating high-performance, eco-conscious construction products. Their commitment to reducing the environmental footprint aligns perfectly with Wandarra’s mission.

100% recyclable, 65% less plastic, no compromises

Arborgreen sees a better way to grow. One that protects without compromise. One that is as strong as it is sustainable. A way forward as revolutionary, as it is recyclable. A way that looks beyond today, to the impact we can make tomorrow. Available exclusively from Arborgreen, the new Mallee Elemental 65 tree guard moves the way to grow beyond plant protection, to what we can do to protect the future, by reducing the impact of plastic on the environment and by recycling and reusing what we have today, reducing the need for raw materials. Tested and proven to perform without the performance compromises of other sustainable tree guards, the Mallee Elemental 65 tree guard is made from UNiCOR, an innovative new fluted product with 65% less plastic than traditional tree guards, that is 100% recyclable though a national network of depots. Jason Gooden, Arborgreen Managing Director said, “Time is the most significant cost in any project. This is why the traditional fluted plastic tree guard has, until now, been the most popular tree guard—it is the fastest to install, the most durable, and the most reusable. The Mallee Elemental 65 Tree Guard is fast to install, durable, and reusable, and by reducing the plastic content by 65%, it is a product that not only protects trees but also protects the future.” The Mallee Elemental 65 tree guard is just the start, with new (and even more sustainable) products currently in development. Arborgreen is committed to helping Australia grow, by providing the best tools for better environments; if a solution exists, they’ll find it. If it doesn’t, they’ll make one. Marc Jarvis, Head of Marketing, Arborgreen adds, “Our new Mallee Elemental 65 Tree Guard is a testament to our mission of delivering innovative solutions that are as good for the […]

Free commercial heat pump upgrade now available in Victoria

Victorian businesses now have an un-missable opportunity to upgrade their old gas-powered hot water systems to energy-efficient heat pumps at no cost. It comes courtesy of the Victorian State Government’s Commercial Heat Pump Rebate program. This initiative is part of the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) scheme, which aims to reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions across the state. Victoria has a 2050 net-zero carbon target. Efficient Energy Group – Victorian Energy Upgrades Partner Efficient Energy Group (link)https://www.efficientenergygroup.com.au/free-commercial-hot-water-system-for-businesses-vic/ (EEG) is committed to helping Victorian businesses switch to energy-efficient hot water systems. The company offers a free upgrade to a heat pump system in commercial buildings with gas hot water systems that are at least 10 years old. This offer is exclusive to commercial properties. Home offices do not qualify. CEO Joshua Liptak encourages all eligible Victorian businesses to take full advantage of this rebate, which covers both the cost of the heat pump system and its installation. He explains, “Switching fromgas to a heat pump is a win-win for businesses. It reduces your energy bills while contributing to a more sustainable future. This is a very simple but very effective way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and future-proof your business against rising energy costs.” Maximise Energy Efficiency with Heat Pumps Why heat pumps? Liptak explains, “Heat pumps heat water using ‘thermal transfer’. So, essentially, they extract heat from the air, and transfer it to the water. This makes them significantly more energy- efficient than traditional gas systems.” He adds, “By only using electricity as part of the heat extraction process and not to directly heat water, these pumps can produce up to three times more heat energy for the electrical energy they consume! This not only lowers operational costs but also helps businesses reduce their carbon footprint.” Key Benefits of […]

Climate smarts:The role of Australian companies in addressing climate change through technology

by Ross Thompson CEO, Greenbox Manufacturers across the Asia Pacific region – from Singapore to Sydney, Adelaide to Auckland – are central to decarbonisation. If Australia and its business ecosystem doesn’t ride the opportunity winds to its 2050 net zero target, don’t expect too much wealth and health to flow through the Australian economy in the years ahead. Current events and latest polls tell us that Federal and State Policies have taken too long to implement. Meanwhile, a majority in our households and the workplace are thinking ‘just get on with it.’ As the presidential election approaches in the US, should the Democratic Party keep its control, it is likely that significant investment into cleantech will continue off the back of President Biden’s administration signing into law the largest clean energy investments in America’s history. Add to this that the globally agreed target limit of 1.5C to avoid damaging climate change impacts was recently breached across an entire year for the first time, according to the European Union’s climate service, and it seems clear we need to take action – and soon. How we create and use technology is the biggest lever to manage climate change. The International Energy Agency estimates that 35% of the emissions cuts needed to meet 2050 climate goals will have to come from technologies not yet available. The window will close as governments and firms jostle for gamechanger tech in this great clean energy economy. Given the enormity of the task at hand to decarbonise Australia, there will always be pressing trade-offs as Australia looks to leverage its abundance of gas reserves as the transitional fuel towards its 2050 net zero targets (latest policy, backing gas until ‘2050 and beyond’). Aussie smarts should and must supply the inexorable demand created by the global transition to […]

Bioplastics-Innovation-Hub-1-credit-CSIRO AUS MN

CSIRO and Murdoch University launch Bioplastics Innovation Hub to end plastic waste

CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, and Murdoch University have launched The Bioplastics Innovation Hub, an $8 million collaboration that will work with industry partners to develop a new generation of 100 per cent compostable plastic. The Bioplastics Innovation Hub aims to revolutionise plastic packaging by developing biologically derived plastic that can break down in compost, land, or water. Dr Andy Whiteley, CSIRO Research Program Director, said the Hub aims to bring together experts in microbiology, molecular genetics, synthetic biology, biochemical engineering, advanced manufacturing and circular economy by translating advancements in bioplastics research to real-world applications. “Our primary focus is the development of 100 per cent compostable, bio-derived packaging for use as sprays, films, bottles, caps and wrappers which are engineered to fully break down in compost, land and in aquatic environments,” said Dr Whiteley. With global concerns over plastic pollution and fossil fuel depletion driving an increased demand for compostable bioplastics, the Hub will equip the plastics industry with the tools and expertise required to manufacture materials and continue to drive a plastic waste green economy. The first key focus area will be a co-investment with WA-based biotechnology company Ecopha Biotech Pty Ltd, to develop a new process for water bottle production using compostable bioplastics derived from waste products from the food industry. Murdoch University Deputy Vice Chancellor Research & Innovation Professor Peter Eastwood said managing the growing plastic waste crisis required innovative technological solutions, including bioplastics. “Together with CSIRO, Murdoch University will fast-track the production of novel compostable bioplastic and introduce a green plastic to the market which will significantly minimise the requirement for non-sustainable plastic production,” Professor Eastwood said. “We also aim to assist industry in establishing an advanced biomanufacturing sector, to commercialise compostable bioplastics that meet the manufacturing […]

K-Roc newly launched insulated wall and ceiling panels

Kingspan Insulated Panels (Kingspan)—a global leader in high-performance insulation and building envelope solutions has announced the launch of its new K-Roc wall and ceiling panels. The panels are manufactured locally in Australia at Kingspan’s factory in St Marys, Sydney. The primary advantage of manufacturing the new line in Australia is eliminating the need to ship from the United Kingdom. This change will reduce lead times and ensure that Kingspan’s contractors and clients have full confidence that their buildings will be constructed and completed on time. K-Roc panels are efficient and straightforward to install; they are prefabricated, which simplifies handling and reduces installation time. As a result, K-Roc™ panels can be used to close a building’s outer envelope quickly, letting trades get to work on the inside faster, reducing time on site. This efficiency shortens construction schedules and lowers labour costs, making projects more cost-effective and letting builders meet tight deadlines without compromising quality. K-Roc is suitable for applications where all customers, from designers to end users, are looking for high thermal performance, and high fire rating levels. The K-Roc™ products are bonded laminated materials. They achieve the necessary fire test results, as required by clause C2D10 (6)(g) of the National Construction Code (NCC). Therefore, it can be used wherever a non-combustible material is required by the NCC. K-Roc lets customers build smarter. Architects can select a product that’s high performing and simple to detail from the early design stage. The K-Roc series has six products: K-Roc™ AWP Wall Panel K-Roc™ Evolution Wall Panel K-Roc™ Rockspan Wall Panel K-Roc™ Firemaster Wall Panel K-Roc™ Firemaster Ceiling K-Roc™ Firemaster Ultima Wall Panel. The Ultima range is designed for additional fire resistance requirements. For example, K-Roc Firemaster Ultima Wall Panels are ideally suited for the construction of non-load bearing internal partition walls with fire […]

Air-Met Scientific buys DustCanary

Air-Met Scientific, a leading provider of environmental monitoring solutions, is pleased to announce the acquisition of DustCanary, a prominent UK company specialising in advanced dust monitoring technology. This strategic acquisition represents a significant step in the company\’s ongoing expansion within the environmental industry. Enhancing Environmental Product Portfolio in Australia The acquisition of DustCanary is a pivotal move for Air-Met Scientific, enhancing its product offerings in the realm of real-time dust monitoring. DustCanary is renowned for its innovative technologies, including the DustCanary Trend 420, a personal dust monitor designed to protect workers from hazardous dust exposure including respirable dust by providing immediate feedback and alerts. This product is particularly effective in industrial settings such as construction, mining, and manufacturing, where air quality and worker safety are critical concerns. Commitment to Workplace Safety and Environmental Health “Acquiring DustCanary underscores our commitment to advancing workplace safety and environmental health through innovative monitoring solutions,” said Simon Meers, Managing Director of Air-Met Scientific. “The addition of the DustCanary brand complements our existing portfolio and enhances our ability to provide comprehensive, reliable, and effective solutions for dust monitoring and control.” Founded in 1984, Air-Met Scientific is a leading supplier of occupational health, safety and environmental monitoring solutions specialising in air quality, gas detection, and dust monitoring. With offices conveniently located in major cities across Australia and a commitment to innovation, Air-Met Scientific provides industry-leading products and services designed to enhance worker and environmental safety and compliance.

Building Australia’s EV battery future in Queensland

Gold Coast to become heart of EV battery manufacturing as eLumina’s $20 million facility nears completion. The Gold Coast will be home to Australia’s first factory capable of producing both community lithium batteries and EV chargers as eLumina’s $20 million manufacturing facility approaches completion. The factory will produce 300 batteries a year and create 300 jobs on the Gold Coast, capable of serving up to 100 Queensland households with reliable and cheaper renewable energy. Chief Executive Officer of eLumina, Lisa Marsh, said on-shore manufacturing of critical EV technology, such as chargers and batteries, was essential to Australia’s energy future. “Global demand for batteries is soaring. We have record solar uptake and energy generation in Australia, but we need battery storage at scale to harness its full potential,” she said. “Through battery storage we can capture this energy and ensure reliable and cheaper off-grid power to all Australians. This insulates communities from power outages and saves them money.” Ms Marsh said eLumina was proud to be building the factory in Queensland and grow the local industry. “Queensland has the potential to become a world leader in next-generation battery manufacturing and research and development. Our centre is just the start of that. We are committed to making a fundamental difference to Australia’s clean energy economy,” she said. “We’re building this facility using local talent and locally sourced parts and materials. Once it’s completed, it will support 300 high-skilled jobs, which will draw on the region’s talent.” “Our world-class research and development training centre will al so upskill hundreds of Queenslanders with the expertise to contribute to our evolving battery and EV charging sector.” Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the Gold Coast had an ambitious plan to secure a larger slice of the clean energy sector and the high skilled jobs it’s […]

Climate Impact Corporation announces 10GW renewable hydrogen projects in South Australia and Northern Territory

Climate Impact Corporation (CIC), a leading international developer of renewable energy and green hydrogen projects, has announced its intention to develop two 10GW green hydrogen projects in central Australia utilising its proprietary renewable hydrogen production modular technology. The announcement is backed by CIC’s development, in partnership with GE Vernova, of self-contained modules that produce zero-carbon hydrogen. The deployment of the two projects is supported by CIC’s secure equipment supply chain including the onshore manufacturing of equipment. Compared to traditional renewable hydrogen production, which typically sources vast quantities of water from piped water sources and grid electricity, CIC’s modular hydrogen production units are designed to operate entirely off-grid, reducing demand on governments and communities to fund supporting infrastructure. Each module contains solar panels, atmospheric water generators, electrolysers and supporting infrastructure to produce hydrogen as an individual standalone unit. Crucially, the use of atmospheric water allows hydrogen to be produced anywhere where solar radiation is abundant, opening up new locations in central Australia as potential renewable fuel hubs. David Green, Chairman and Co-Founder of CIC, said the approach would unlock inland hydrogen production opportunities in solar-rich locations such as the Northern Territory and South Australia. “Renewable hydrogen production requires a significant amount of energy and water, which aren’t often found together in places like Australia,” Mr Green said. “Rather than repeating the same approach, we’re looking to solve this challenge by creating modules that use Australia’s abundant solar resources, combined with proven atmospheric water generation technology. It’s an approach that solves one of the biggest challenges Australia has faced in becoming a renewable hydrogen superpower, and we’re excited to be bringing it to market first in Australia.” CIC has recently achieved several key milestones for its Australian projects as it plans to begin manufacturing renewable hydrogen modules in Australia. CIC recently announced […]

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