Archived News for Green Sector Professionals - June, 2012
The Federal and Tasmnaina Governments have agreed to a ‘short extension’ of time requested by the Reference Group of Signatories to enable the completion of Tasmanian forest negotiations.
The group requested an extension until July 23 to report to the Governments.
The Federal Minister for the Environment Tony Burke said every effort was being made to secure an agreement.
Report finds pesticides in Melbourne's water supply
Environmental conservation group Friends of the Earth (FoE) has released a report investigating the risks and impacts associated with pesticides in Melbourne’s drinking supply. The report focuses on the city’s Sugarloaf Reservoir, which supplies 1.5 million Melbournians, which, according to the FoE, has recorded 31 positive pesticide samples.
Burke denied trip to Rio
Federal Environment Minister Tony Burke’s plan to attend the United Nation's sustainable development conference is in tatters after the Federal Opposition denied him pair to attend.
New technique to control cane toads
"This is the first powerful tool we have created to control cane toads," said Professor Rick Shine from the University's School of Biological Sciences and the lead author of the study which was published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society on Wednesday 13 June.
Study finds climate models should include ocean waves
A new field study by researchers from Swinburne University of Technology suggests that the effect of wave activity on oceans should be incorporated in long term climate and weather prediction models.
Government reveals world's biggest marine reserves network
The Federal Government has announced the formation of the world’s largest network of marine reserves, upping the country’s such reserves from 27 to 60. The reserves will cover over a third of Commonwealth waters and is roughly the size of the Northern Territory.
Local government key to fighting climate change: report
The Australian Centre of Excellence for Local Government (ACELG) and the Council of Capital Cities Lord Mayors (CCCLM) has published the Local Action for a Low Carbon Future discussion paper, identifying ways for the Federal Government to work more closely with local bodies to bring about the country’s low carbon future.
BoM warns of El Nino arrival
The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) has warned that the country faces slipping back into the El Nino weather pattern, which will produce similar drought conditions that ravished the country during the summer of 2009.
Government to turn manure into coin
The Federal Government has released a new carbon farming methodology that promises dairy producers the ability to convert manure into carbon credits.
Tasmanian rivers mostly clean
The Tasmanian Government has released the results from the state’s latest round of chemical testing of Tasmania’s rivers and streams.
Victoria announces BIO2012 delegation
Victorian Governor Alex Chernov will lead the state’s 60 strong delegation attending the world’s largest biotechnology convention and exhibition, Bio2012.
WA forms new marine park
The Western Australian Government has announced the creation of the state’s 11th marine park, with the Ngari Capes Marine Park being listed on the Government Gazette.
AGL to deliver large-scale solar project
Electricity giant AGL has been selected by the Federal Government as the successful proponent in the solar photovoltaic (PV) category of the Solar Flagships Program. The company, together with manufacturer First Solar, will deliver large-scale solar PV power projects totalling 159 MW at two sites in New South Wales.
First CTIP grants announced
The Federal Government has announced the first 13 grants from its $1 billion Clean Technology Investment Program, aimed at assisting manufacturers significantly reduce their energy bills.
NSW announces environment spend
The New South Wales Government has pledged $419 million to boost management of the state’s national parks and to help protect its native fauna.
NSW awash with Federal Murray funding
The Federal Government has announced $469 million in funding to support four major new infrastructure projects in New South Wales.
SA releases natural resources blueprint
The South Australian Government has released a new blueprint for managing the state's natural resources.
$45 million energy efficiency boost for Local Government and communities
The Federal Government has announced the remaining $45 million funds from the solar Hot Ware Rebate Scheme will be used to support two separate national programs assisting local communities become more energy efficient.
Burke to determine Alpha's future
The Federal Minister for the Environment, Tony Burke, and the Queensland Deputy Premier, Jeff Seeney, have met for the first time tor resolve their differences over the disputed environmental approval process of the multi-billion dollar Alpha Coal mine.
$54m collaboration on CO2 geological storage
A $54.3 million agreement has been signed between Geoscience Australia, the NSW Minister for Resources and Energy, Chris Hartcher, and the Australian Coal Association to assess potential geological storage opportunities for greenhouse gases in NSW.
Australia still lagging in clean tech race
A recent study by the WWF has found that Australia is lagging behind in the global clean tech race, falling to 26th spot in thethird edition of the Clean Economy, Living Planet study.