Day: 10 January 2003

International Business Briefs: software, water technology, hybrid vehicles, and health and safety

In this week’s International Business Briefs, a US software company wins a new contract in Mexico; raising money for water technology; new hybrid vehicles in the US; and an environmental, health and safety training programme.

Carbon Trust identifies low carbon technologies with greatest potential

Hydrogen, fuel cells and biomass for local heat, are among a number of technologies that have the potential to underpin the UK’s transition towards a low carbon economy and are likely to receive a share of £75 million over the next three years, according to a new research by the Carbon Trust into where planned investment of would be most effective.

Italy protests against clampdown on solvent-based paints

A business group is protesting against a European Commission proposal to regulate the solvent content of paints to limit emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOC).

New law for smell?

There may be a need for legislation to force water companies to control unpleasant smells from sewage treatment works, according to the Government, as it launches a consultation on the issue.

EU emissions trading scheme could spell end to UK scheme

The EU emissions trading scheme, due to come into effect in 2005, pending European Parliament approval, could result in an end to the UK emissions trading scheme and major changes to the Climate Change Levy, say researchers at the University of Sussex.

EU energy certification for buildings

A new directive on the energy performance of buildings will come into force in 2006, requiring buildings to be certified for their energy efficiency, with regular inspections of air conditioning and heating systems.

The year of freshwater – but are water regulations out-dated?

2003 is the International Year of Freshwater, during which the United Nations will be raising awareness of the importance of protecting and managing freshwater. But European freshwater scientists are concerned that some water regulations are out of date, resulting in excessive costs to the metals industry to restrict metal pollution more than is necessary.

Letter from the Editor: air pollution and climate change

Energy management and carbon dioxide are this week’s big hitters. If you’re into the former, there’s money to be had, and the latter appears to have a silver lining. Scientists in Colorado have found that the gas can prevent the creation of other pollutants.

WPL Diamond installed at YHA Hindhead

NEWS RELEASE: WPL's Diamond wastewater treatment system has been installed at Price's Cottage, the pictresque Youth Hostel Association at Hindhead, owned by the National Trust. Situated near Devil's Punchbowl in a valley accessed only via a gravel track, the property sleeps twelve and is a former broomsquires cottage. Handling all of the property's wastewater, WPL's Diamond was chosen for its ease of installation, compact design and low maintenance requirements. The system oeprates for at least 2/3 years before desludging is necessary, ideal for a property in such a remote location.

The Conservation SunPipe

NEWS RELEASE: Following the tremendous success of the application of Monodraught;s SunPipe system, Monodraught have now joined forces with the Metal Window Company to produce Conservation SunPipe. This system is a faithful replica of a traditional cast iron rooflight, which incoporates the charm and authenticity of Victorian design, with the modern benefits of the latest materials and construction. This traditional appearance is so favoured by Planning Officers and Conservation Officers throughout the country. The unique design of the rooflight element means that there is no projection above roof level, which makes the system very discreet. The breakthrough achieved by the SunPipe addition is the transition from a rectangular rooflight to a circular SunPipe, with the mirror-furnished surface carrying sunlight down into the room below. The new Conservation Rooflight was formally launched at the South West Homebuilding & Renovating Show and a Patent has been applied for.

Wigan leagues ahead with state of the art Mayrise system for council services

NEWS RELEASE: Wigan Council has implemented a state of the art computerised monitoring system to improve refuse and cleansing services. The MAYRISE system incorporates a detailed records database linked to electronic maps and digital photographs. Users of the system have instant access to information with mapped routes and zones, as well as visual images of incidents such as dumped rubbish and burnt out vehicles.

An innovative climate for Woking

NEWS RELEASE: While world leaders continue to debate environmental issues on a global scale, a small borough council in leafy Surrey has been tackling global warming locally.

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