Salman Zafar is the CEO of BioEnergy Consult, and an international consultant, advisor and trainer with expertise in waste management, biomass energy, waste-to-energy, environment protection and resource conservation. His geographical areas of focus include Asia, Africa and the Middle East.
Salman has successfully accomplished a wide range of projects in the areas of biogas technology, biomass energy, waste-to-energy, recycling and waste management.
Salman has participated in numerous national and international conferences all over the world. He is a prolific environmental journalist, and has authored more than 300 articles in reputed journals, magazines and websites. In addition, he is proactively engaged in creating mass awareness on renewable energy, waste management and environmental sustainability through his blogs and portals.
Salman can be reached at salman@bioenergyconsult.com or salman@cleantechloops.com.
The Palm Oil industry in Southeast Asia and Africa generates large quantity of biomass wastes whose disposal is a challenging task. Palm kernel shells (or PKS) are the shell fractions left after the nut has been removed after crushing in the Palm Oil mill. Kernel shells are a fibrous material and can be easily handled in bulk directly from the product line to the end use. Large and small shell fractions are mixed with dust-like fractions and small fibres. Moisture content in kernel shells is low compared to other biomass residues with different sources suggesting values between 11% and 13%.
Palm kernel shells contain residues of Palm Oil, which accounts for its slightly higher heating value than average lignocellulosic biomass. Compared to other residues from the industry, it is a good quality biomass fuel with uniform size distribution, easy handling, easy crushing, and limited biological activity due to low moisture content. PKS can be readily co-fired with coal in grate fired -and fluidized bed boilers as well as cement kilns in order to diversify the fuel mix.
The primary use of palm kernel shells is as a boiler fuel supplementing the fibre which is used as primary fuel. In recent years kernel shells are sold as alternative fuel around the world. Besides selling shells in bulk, there are companies that produce fuel briquettes from shells which may include partial carbonisation of the material to improve the combustion characteristics.
As a raw material for fuel briquettes, palm shells are reported to have the same calorific characteristics as coconut shells. The relatively smaller size makes it easier to carbonise for mass production, and its resulting palm shell charcoal can be pressed into a heat efficient biomass briquette.
Palm kernel shells have been traditionally used as solid fuels for steam boilers in palm oil mills across Southeast Asia. The steam generated is used to run turbines for electricity production. These two solid fuels alone are able to generate more than enough energy to meet the energy demands of a palm oil mill. Most palm oil mills in the region are self-sufficient in terms of energy by making use of kernel shells and mesocarp fibers in cogeneration.
In recent years, the demand for palm kernel shells has increased considerably in Europe, Asia-Pacific, China etc. resulting in price close to that of coal. Nowadays, cement industries and power producers are increasingly using palm kernel shells to replace coal. In grate-fired boiler systems, fluidized-bed boiler systems and cement kilns, palm kernel shells are an excellent fuel.
Cofiring of PKS yields added value for power plants and cement kilns, because the fuel significantly reduces carbon emissions – this added value can be expressed in the form of renewable energy certificates, carbon credits, etc. However, there is a great scope for introduction of high-efficiency cogeneration systems in the industry which will result in substantial supply of excess power to the public grid and supply of surplus PKS to other nations. Palm kernel shell is already extensively in demand domestically by local industries for meeting process heating requirements, thus creating supply shortages in the market.
Palm oil mills around the world may seize an opportunity to supply electricity for its surrounding plantation areas using palm kernel shells, empty fruit branches and palm oil mill effluent which have not been fully exploited yet. This new business will be beneficial for all parties, increase the profitability and sustainability for palm oil industry, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase the electrification ratio in surrounding plantation regions.
Since it arrived in the market, composite decking has become popular. Homeowners who are not aware of composite decking before are now beginning to purchase it. Composite boards have now gained more popularity compared to wood decking. What are the reasons composite decking is becoming popular?
Why Composite Decking is Becoming Popular
Composite decking is becoming popular for a lot of reasons. To know the reasons behind these, let’s consider some of its benefits.
1. Composite decking is cost-effective
Composite decking is a cost-effective flooring material. It is one of the reasons why composite decking is becoming popular. The amount you use to purchase a composite board is worth it because of its benefits. More importantly, composite boards are also easy to maintain.
If you use composite decking to build a deck, you will spend less on maintaining your deck. Composite board is not like wood that is cheaper but will require a huge amount for maintenance. Maintaining a wood decking is thrice the amount you will spend in purchasing composite decking. Homeowners who are aware of these prefer to purchase composite boards instead.
2. It is aesthetically pleasing
Installing composite decking in your outdoor space will make your home beautiful. The board is available in lighter and darker colours that you can choose. Some homeowners even install different board colours and solar decking lights to create a beautiful focal point in their outdoor space.
A good thing about composite boards is that they don’t fade. It has protection on its outer layer that prevents ultraviolet rays from fading its colour. If you use composite decking to build a deck, the deck will remain beautiful for a long time.
3. Composite decking adds value
Composite decking can also add value to a home. It is a reason why composite decking is becoming popular. Homeowners who want to make their homes luxurious are now installing wood-plastic decking in the outdoor space.
Additionally, homeowners who want a high ROI on their property can build a deck with composite boards. When potential buyers see how beautiful your property is with composite decking, they will be willing to purchase your home at your price.
4. It is durable
Another reason why composite decking is becoming popular is that it is highly durable. It is more durable than timber and plastic decking. Every homeowner will want a strong flooring material that will last longer. No wonder composite decking is becoming popular.
Many people have started using composite boards to build a deck in their garden, knowing that it’s highly durable. A composite deck will not get damaged if there are a lot of people on it. It is a durable material that can withstand heavy foot traffic. Also, composite decking will not wear or tear since it is durable.
5. Composite decking will last longer
Composite board is a material that has a longer warranty. If you install it in your outdoor space, the decking will last for decades. You can use a composite deck for as long as 25 to 30 years, depending on your purchase brand. Composite decking is not like other flooring materials like timber that can only last for a short period. Since wood-plastic decking has a longer lifespan than other decking materials, it is now increasingly popular as the best wood for decks.
6. It is easy to maintain
Furthermore, composite decking is becoming popular since it is not difficult to maintain. It does not need painting since the decking colour can not fade. Also, you don’t have to bother about sanding or staining a composite decking. Apart from that, composite decking does not need the application of sealers to make it last longer. Regular cleaning of the decking is all that is required to make your composite board look great.
7. Composite decking is resistant to the elements
Composite decking is also resistant to the elements. It is resistant to water or moisture. Wood-plastic boards are also resistant to rot. Apart from that, it is also resistant to termites. Termites will not be able to damage a wood-plastic decking.
Conclusion
The reason why composite decking is becoming popular is that it is durable and long-lasting. Besides that, composite is beautiful and will add value to your property.
Electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a promising solution to address environmental concerns and reduce greenhouse gas emissions worldwide. Australia, with its vast landscapes and unique environmental challenges, is no exception. In recent years, the country has seen a gradual increase in electric vehicle adoption as individuals, businesses, and policymakers recognize the importance of transitioning towards a more sustainable transportation system. In this article, we will delve into the factors driving the uptake of electric vehicles in Australia and the challenges that lie ahead in accelerating their widespread adoption.
1. Environmental Consciousness
Australia is known for its stunning natural beauty, but it also faces significant environmental challenges, including climate change, air pollution, and reliance on fossil fuels. As people become increasingly conscious of their carbon footprint, there has been a growing interest in cleaner and greener modes of transportation. Electric vehicles, with zero tailpipe emissions, offer a compelling alternative to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles and are viewed as a crucial step towards a more sustainable future.
2. Government Incentives
Federal and state governments in Australia have recognized the importance of promoting electric vehicle adoption and have introduced various incentives to encourage consumers to make the switch. These incentives may include grants, rebates, tax credits, reduced registration fees, and access to bus lanes or toll discounts. Additionally, governments have been investing in charging infrastructure development to address range anxiety concerns.
3. Advancements in Technology
One of the initial barriers to electric vehicle adoption was the perception of limited driving range and lack of charging infrastructure. However, technological advancements in battery technology have significantly improved EV range, making them a viable option for many Australians. Moreover, faster-charging options, such as DC fast-charging stations, have become more prevalent, reducing charging time and enhancing the convenience of owning an electric vehicle.
4. Cost Savings
Though electric vehicles may have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional vehicles, the total cost of ownership over the vehicle’s lifespan can be lower. Electric vehicles generally have lower operating costs, as electricity is cheaper than gasoline, and they require less maintenance due to fewer moving parts. As consumers become more aware of these cost-saving benefits, the financial appeal of electric vehicles continues to grow.
5. Corporate Commitments
Businesses in Australia are also playing a vital role in driving electric vehicle uptake. Many companies have adopted sustainability targets and are incorporating electric vehicles into their fleets. Besides the environmental benefits, using electric vehicles in commercial operations can yield significant cost savings and enhance the company’s green image.
6. Charging Infrastructure Expansion
A robust charging infrastructure is critical to the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. Recognizing this, both public and private entities have been investing in charging station deployment across Australia. Charging stations can be found in public parking lots, shopping centers, hotels, and along highways. This expansion has alleviated range anxiety concerns and instilled confidence in potential electric vehicle buyers.
Challenges and Roadblocks
While the progress in electric vehicle uptake is promising, there are still challenges that need to be addressed to accelerate the transition towards a more sustainable transportation future:
1. High Upfront Cost
The initial purchase price of electric vehicles remains a significant barrier for many potential buyers. While ongoing reductions in battery costs are expected to alleviate this issue over time, government incentives and subsidies can play a crucial role in making electric vehicles more affordable for a broader audience.
2. Range Anxiety
Although range anxiety has been alleviated to some extent with improved battery technology and charging infrastructure, it remains a concern for some consumers. Expanding the charging network further and promoting public awareness of charging station locations can help address this issue.
3. Limited Model Availability
Currently, the selection of electric vehicle models available in Australia is more limited compared to traditional vehicles. Encouraging automakers to offer a broader range of electric vehicle options can cater to different consumer preferences and needs.
4. Grid Infrastructure
The mass adoption of electric vehicles will place additional demands on the electricity grid. To ensure a smooth transition, grid infrastructure must be upgraded to accommodate the increased load and ensure stable and reliable power supply for electric vehicles. As the number of EV charging stations increases, so too will demand.
Conclusion
Australia’s electric vehicle uptake is on an upward trajectory, driven by increasing environmental awareness, government incentives, technology advancements, cost savings, corporate commitments, and charging infrastructure expansion. As these trends continue, the country moves closer to a future where sustainable transportation is the norm rather than the exception. However, to achieve widespread adoption, addressing challenges related to upfront costs, range anxiety, model availability, and grid infrastructure is crucial. Through collaborative efforts from governments, industries, and consumers, Australia can accelerate the transition towards a cleaner and greener transportation system, contributing significantly to global efforts to combat climate change and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.
In a world where sustainability is more critical than ever, recycling has become essential to global discussions around environmental conservation.
One aspect often overlooked in the discourse is tire recycling.
Before 2013, numerous ecological issues arose from incinerating or sending discarded tires to landfills. A report by the Tire Industry Project for the World Business Council for Sustainable Development estimates there are 4 billion end-of-life tires (ELT) in landfills and other stockpiles around the world. Although tire recovery rates have improved over the past decade, they may not be sufficient to handle the additional 1 billion ELTs generated globally each year.
This article explores the complex issue of tire recycling, its environmental impact, and potential solutions to this waste management challenge.
The Problem With Tire Disposal
Landfilled tires can take hundreds of years to decompose. This can cause several issues, including:
Groundwater and soil pollution
Different materials and chemicals, including rubber, carbon black steel, and various additives, make up tires. Over time, the harsh environmental conditions within landfills can cause these materials to break down and leach into the surrounding soil and groundwater, potentially contaminating drinking water and agricultural land.
Methane emissions
As tires decompose, they release methane gas, which is about 25 times more effective at trapping heat than carbon dioxide. Additionally, methane is highly flammable and can create an explosion hazard if it accumulates in high concentrations, posing environmental and safety risks.
Health hazards
Tires can catch fire easily due to their high heat retention and flammability. Tire fires are notoriously difficult to extinguish, often burning for days or weeks. They also generate a significant amount of toxic smoke, including pollutants like dioxins and furans, that can cause serious health problems in humans and animals.
Fortunately, the modern tire recycling machine has become an effective tool for alleviating these problems, with equipment manufacturers making them more accessible. These machines help mitigate the environmental issues and hazards mentioned above by recovering materials from tire waste, such as steel, fiber, and rubber, to produce various raw materials.
Given the abovementioned issues, tire recycling ought to become an increasingly critical aspect of waste management.
Modern tire recycling machines and methods have been developed to repurpose old tires into usable raw materials, which conserves valuable resources and reduces environmental harm. These methods include:
Ambient shredding
In this process, powerful, interlocking knives cut tires into smaller pieces. Professionals can further separate these pieces into different components, such as ‘crumb rubber,’ which has various applications. For example, manufacturers often use it as a raw material in playground surfaces and sports fields. Additionally, road construction projects use crumb rubber as an additive for asphalt, creating rubberized roads that last longer and reduce road noise.
Cryogenic grinding
This method freezes tires using liquid nitrogen or compressed air. Once the tires become brittle, they can be easily shattered into small pieces, producing clean, high-quality rubber powder. This material has myriad applications, usually used in making new tires, automotive parts, and substances like sealants, coatings, and adhesives.
Pyrolysis
This method involves heating tires in an oxygen-free chamber, which decomposes the tires into oil, gas, and carbon black. Pyrolytic oil can substitute conventional fuels in industrial applications, while the resultant gas can generate electricity. For its part, carbon black can be repurposed for producing new tires or as a pigment in manufacturing inks, paints, and plastic products.
Each of these methods effectively transforms what would otherwise be a significant environmental issue into valuable materials and energy sources, significantly reducing the carbon footprint of used tires. These practices show how tire recycling isn’t just a potential solution to an environmental problem but an effective way to achieve sustainability.
The Road Ahead
Looking forward, it’s clear that tire recycling on a global scale can contribute to achieving sustainable waste management. The triumvirate of continual advancements in recycling technology, rigorous government regulations, and public awareness campaigns are expected to drive growth in the field.
Moreover, developing sustainable markets for recycled tire products is a crucial factor for the future of tire recycling. Transforming used tires into valuable commodities allows us to resolve a significant waste problem while conserving natural resources and building up a circular economy.
Recycling Remains Relevant
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of waste management, tire recycling may be a powerful example of how innovative solutions can transform a significant environmental problem into an opportunity for sustainable development.
The future of tire recycling holds substantial promise for both the environment and the economy, demonstrating how innovative, sustainable solutions can drive progress.
Looking to upgrade your 4×4’s performance without blowing your budget? You’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll walk you through the best strategies for finding the cheapest 4×4 wheels online without compromising quality and durability.
1. Visit Online Marketplaces
The first place to start your hunt for affordable 4×4 wheels is reputable online marketplaces. Websites like eBay, Amazon, and Craigslist often have an extensive range of options available. These platforms allow sellers from around the globe to offer products, leading to competitive pricing that can work in your favor.
2. Check Out Specialized Online Stores
Several online stores specialize in automotive parts, including 4×4 wheels. Stores like AutoAnything, Tire Rack, and our very own website provide a myriad of choices for every type of vehicle. We take pride in offering a variety of quality wheels at some of the most competitive prices on the market.
3. Use Price Comparison Websites
Price comparison websites are an invaluable tool for anyone shopping for the cheapest 4×4 wheels online. Websites such as Google Shopping, PriceGrabber, and Shopzilla compile prices from various online retailers, enabling you to quickly compare prices and find the best deal.
4. Wait for Seasonal Sales
If you can afford to wait, most online retailers have seasonal or holiday sales where they offer significant discounts on their products. Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and end-of-year sales are perfect times to bag a bargain on 4×4 wheels.
5. Sign Up for Newsletters
Many online stores offer exclusive discounts to their newsletter subscribers. By subscribing to these newsletters, you can get early access to sales, exclusive deals, and even special coupons to help you save on your 4×4 wheel purchase.
6. Check for Overstock or Clearance Sales
Overstock or clearance sales are another great way to find cheap 4×4 wheels online. These deals usually come up when stores want to clear out old inventory to make room for new stock.
While finding the cheapest 4×4 wheels online is a great goal, it’s crucial to balance cost with quality. Remember, your vehicle’s safety and performance largely depend on the quality of its components. Therefore, while hunting for the best deal, ensure you’re also getting a reliable, sturdy product that will serve you well for years to come.
Here at our website, we are committed to providing quality 4×4 wheels at the most affordable prices. We invite you to browse our extensive collection and find the perfect set for your vehicle today.
Self-capacity with Santa Rosa Stor-All is a reasonable approach to securely get your effects however long you want. Utilizing self-capacity can make a ton of things simpler. It can ease the heat off the move in day during the house moving cycle; to simply having some place to put things that you haven’t chosen how to manage yet. Here are a portion of the advantages of self-stockpiling that can assist with making your life significantly more straightforward.
Clean up Your Home
It’s simple for a home to become invaded with things, particularly after a critical life altering event like a significant distance house move or family loss. We carry on with occupied resides in any case, so carving out opportunity to give everything a “place” can be troublesome in ideal circumstances. Time after time we add to currently full cabinets, rest things in the extra room, fit to be taken care of later – or top off the carport.
Indeed, make some breathing space and keep your home spotless and clean as well. Move as large numbers of the things that you don’t think you want right now into a self-stockpiling unit. You can store it there as long as you need, and when you at have opportunity and willpower to figure out it and choose what to do, it’s no problem at all in its capacity unit, hanging tight for you.
Try not to pursue a rash choice and discard something you could lament later. Put it into self-capacity so have opportunity and willpower to clear your home and your psyche and tackle it with a new viewpoint.
Security from Burglary
On the off chance that you’re worried about specific effects being taken and you’re not positive about the security of your home or the region you live in, you can store it securely away in a capacity unit to take care of those concerns.
Santa Rosa Stor-All has broad security highlights intended to guard your effects while they are put away with us, including 24-hour CCTV situated inside and outside the structure, an alert framework and coded electronic doors. Moreover, your capacity unit is gotten with your own latch, so just you approach the unit and your effects. You can have confidence that your effects will be protected with us.
A Base for Your Business
Self-capacity units aren’t only for individual assets; you can likewise utilize them to get your business going. Whether it’s to store your stock and product, unrefined components, or even to work the business from the inside, a self-stockpiling unit can be the ideal answer for all your business needs.
You can lease a unit with barely sufficient room to hold all your business resources – or you should make a workstation in the unit as well. A capacity unit can likewise furnish the ideal space with its impartial spaces for video or photography-based organizations. The conceivable outcomes are inestimable. We take conveyances as well, so you needn’t bother with to be nearby when they show up.
Change Between Homes
At the point when you move to another house, the main pressure can be getting every one of your assets from one property into another. There’s a ton to ponder, for example, uninstalling the enormous machines, getting an adequate number of hands to assist with moving every one of the cumbersome things and ensuring that nothing disappears or breaks during travel.
A self-stockpiling unit can be the best broker between moving into your new home. You can store your possessions in a unit progressively over the long haul before the enormous moving day, making the entire cycle a lot more straightforward and less unpleasant than attempting to move everything in one go. It permits you additional opportunity to appropriately pack and name all that to move it into the unit before you’re prepared to move it into your new home.
Furthermore, obviously, in the event that the moving chain doesn’t exactly connect up and you want to go into leased convenience for some time, then self-capacity can give a straightforward answer for every one of your effects and assist you with dealing with the cycle.
Store Occasional Things
Not all things are required throughout the entire year; those skis and snow boots unquestionably aren’t a lot of help in summer, and those patio seats won’t get utilized during winter. As opposed to pack these occasional things into different spots in your home that could be put to more readily utilize, consider placing them in a self-stockpiling unit when they’re not being used.
This way you keep your home perfect and clean, and it’s an extraordinary method for safeguarding these frequently massive things. Your nursery hardware and outside furniture are at specific gamble from the cruel winter conditions, so it’s a good idea to store these cautiously as opposed to stacking these things in the carport or against a wall.
Today, universities are increasingly making a scholarship essay mandatory in the list of documents for admission, and this should not be treated as a simple formality. Sometimes a cover paper can be a deciding factor in admission to an American college, as well as your business card and pass to happy student life.
A trusted writer from an affordable professional essay writing service will create your paid dissertation quick and set you free from wasting time and money.
Why Do You Need Scholarship Essays?
A well-written scholarship essay is an easy way to present yourself and be remembered by the admissions committee. When several candidates with the same number of points apply for one place at once, they will choose the one who will best reveal their strengths in the papers. If your answer on the exam was not perfect, and small mistakes were made in the writing, a good cover letter can create a small miracle here as well. Logic, the ability to think structurally and present your ideas competently will help you overtake other applicants.
Even if the university you choose does not require you to provide a cover letter, the ability to write it will be useful to you in the future: no foreign internship, MBA program, or employment in an international company is complete without it.
1. Familiarize Yourself with the Requirements
If the cover letter is a mandatory item in the list of documents for admission, you can specify all the details on the university website or in the admissions office. You should not write a multi-page essay if the requirements include a small amount.
Each university has its own requirements for students’ texts. However, not every student can do written work. Not everyone is able to structure their thoughts correctly and format them in a written form. Cooperation with the best essay writing services is a good way to achieve a high-quality result for a reasonable price.
2. What to Write About?
You are recommended to make a mind map – a “cloud of words and concepts”, which will reflect your achievements, goals and interests. This cheat sheet will help you better understand what you want to tell the admissions committee and how to do it most clearly and colorfully. Then the lessons of the English language and literature in primary school will come to the rescue: they teach us to compose a clear structure of the essay. The plan will look something like this:
Introduction
Main Part
What do you want to get from this program, what profession to master?;
Your career goals and what will help you achieve them;
What skills do you need to master this profession? What you already know and what you would like to learn?;
How the chosen program will help you in implementing these plans?;
How can you be useful to the university, teachers and classmates?
Conclusion
When writing a letter, keep in mind that your goal is to interest the members of the admissions committee and show them your potential. Do not try to kill everyone with your wit, do not delve into childhood memories: the information that your grandmother was also a doctor, most likely, no one will be interested in. Write short, clear and to the point.
3. What to Include in the Cover Letter?
Write about what you have already achieved: tell about scientific work, the experience of volunteering, participation in conferences, victories at major Olympics, and about your overall success. Tell about your hobbies and interests, if they relate to the chosen program. At the same time it is necessary to avoid any banalities: “since the childhood I love animals” or “I am fond of watching documentaries” – the information is superfluous.
If you have experience in the relevant field, be sure to indicate it. Describe as specifically as possible how you imagine your professional future, what you would like to achieve, where to work, what benefits to society, and science. Remember that everything you write must directly or indirectly answer the following questions:
Why you are interested in this field of study;
Why the selection committee should choose you;
What you know about the chosen program and about the profession you want to acquire.
4. What Not to Do?
Exaggerate Your achievements
You should not attribute someone else’s merits, overestimate, and list non-existent successes: in the digital age, it is easy to check whether you are telling the truth or exaggerating.
Be Interested in Artistic Techniques
Try to write a cover letter in simple language, without overloading the text with metaphors and stylistic turns. Get rid of clichés and boring, meaningless phrases.
Copy Other People’s Cover Letters
A mistake that killed more than one candidate. It is very important to write a cover letter from yourself and in your own words, otherwise, it will turn into a rather meaningless formality. Do not copy letters from friends and relatives, even if you think they are perfect.
Any more or less serious business can’t do without employees. And the attitude of the manager directly affects the success of the business.
Ideally, the business owner should not manage himself. This should be done by a hired CEO. In reality, the owner cannot afford to hire a good manager, for the time being, so he has to perform these functions independently.
What trap do aspiring entrepreneurs fall into when they have to manage their first employees?
Into the trap of kindness.
We are all people. And no one wants to be a despot and a Cerberus. Everyone wants to be loved and treated well. The business owner is no exception. A novice owner, when he has the first employees, feels ashamed that people receive a salary, and he makes a profit that is significantly higher than the salary. But there is nothing wrong with this, you can show the employee the best paystub generator free and explain to the smallest detail why he got exactly such a salary. You may not admit it to yourself and deny this fact, but in 99% of cases, everything happens exactly like this. I and my fellow entrepreneurs have also gone through this stage, but the bottom line is that you can’t stay at this stage, you have to develop.
The reality is that until the owner gets rid of this shame, his business is destined to remain small. A small firm with a little more or a little less than ten employees usually have a family atmosphere. Employees are pleased to be there. The relationship between the employees and the owner is friendly. The owner of the company knows everything that happens in the personal life of employees and make efforts to promote employee wellbeing. On the other hand, employees know a lot about the personal life of the boss. Such a small family.
It is very difficult for the owner to destroy such an atmosphere, even when he understands the need for this. In fact, it may not always be necessary to do this. If you don’t have a task to increase the size of your business, then you can leave everything as it is. But if a person wants to earn more money from his business, then it is necessary to decide on radical changes.
The people in your company are mechanisms
In fact, it is necessary to understand one simple truth. I will not be its discoverer, many people write and talk about the same, but for some reason few people get it! The people who work in your business are not really people. They are the mechanisms that you use to achieve your goals. You just need to understand and accept this.
For example, your goal is to go to another country. You understand that it’s a long walk there. You buy a plane ticket and fly there, using the plane and its staff for your own personal purposes. And this does not confuse your subtle mental organization.
If you pay money in the store, then you demand that you are served well. You generally consider yourself entitled to be served well. You use other people for your own interests, always when you pay money. This is the law of life. And there’s nothing wrong with that, it’s just the rules of the game. Many people find it difficult to accept even this.
Of course, you need to know the boundaries in everything. If I go to a fast-food store, then I don’t have any special expectations about the service. They will bring food quickly and well. But when I pay normal money in a restaurant, I am very picky about the service.
Well, so, the relationship with employees should be exactly the same. You pay money – you have the right to demand from them the best service for you and your interests. The less you are interested in the personal life of employees, the easier it will be for you to get rid of them. And you will have to get rid of them often.
In fact, the owner takes employees for rent. And pays a monthly rent for it. It is this soulless approach that allows us to achieve efficiency and constant business growth. The main thing is that the owner finally takes off the rose-colored glasses from his eyes and understands what the situation really is.
When I voice my approach, many people tell me that I probably hate people, since I allow myself to talk about hired employees in this way. In fact, I have recently treated people in any way. Neither good nor bad, just nothing. Both good and bad attitudes must be earned. I just soberly assess the situation and I am always on the side of entrepreneurs. Firstly, because I am an entrepreneur myself, and secondly, the state protects employees.
Packaging materials are an integral part of everyday life. From the food consumed to the products purchased, packaging plays a pivotal role in preserving, protecting, and presenting goods. However, the environmental footprint of these materials is a growing concern that demands attention.
Understanding the environmental impacts of packaging materials is crucial. It’s not just about the waste generated after use but also about the resources consumed during production and the emissions released throughout the lifecycle. This knowledge can guide more sustainable choices and practices, contributing to a healthier planet.
The Role Of Packaging In Modern Society
Packaging serves multiple purposes. It protects products from damage, contamination, and tampering. It also provides essential information about the product, such as its ingredients, usage instructions, and expiration date. Moreover, packaging plays a significant role in marketing, helping to attract consumers and influence their purchasing decisions.
Packaging is ubiquitous across various industries. In the pharmaceutical industry, it ensures the safe transport of medicines. In the food industry, it helps maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. The importance of packaging in these contexts cannot be overstated.
Even in inspection systems and packaging solutions, companies like TDI Packsys play a crucial role. They provide performance packaging and automation solutions, highlighting the significance of packaging in maintaining product safety and optimizing processes.
Environmental Impact Of Packaging Materials
The environmental impact is significant, from the resources consumed in its production to the waste it generates at the end of its life. Here’s a brief analysis of how each type of packaging material affects the environment:
1. Plastic
Plastic packaging, while lightweight and versatile, has significant environmental drawbacks. It is derived from non-renewable fossil fuels and is often non-biodegradable, leading to persistent ocean and landscape pollution. For example, if not properly disposed of, single-use plastic bags and bottles can end up in waterways, posing a threat to marine life.
2. Cardboard
While cardboard is biodegradable and often made from recycled material, its production still requires significant energy and results in deforestation. For instance, the e-commerce boom has led to an increase in cardboard packaging, which in turn has increased the demand for timber, contributing to deforestation.
3. Glass
Glass packaging is highly recyclable and does not degrade over multiple recycling processes. However, its production is energy-intensive, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. For example, the production of glass bottles for beverages requires high temperatures, leading to substantial energy use and CO2 emissions.
4. Metal
On the one hand, metal packaging is recyclable and can be reused indefinitely, which makes it a relatively sustainable option. On the other hand, the extraction and processing of metals are energy-intensive and can have a negative impact on the environment.
For example, mining bauxite, the raw material used to make aluminum, can lead to deforestation and pollution. Bauxite mining requires clearing large areas of forest, which can destroy habitat for plants and animals. The mining process can also pollute waterways with heavy metals and other toxins.
The Importance Of Sustainable Packaging
Sustainable packaging refers to the design and use of packaging materials that have a minimal impact on the environment. Here are some key characteristics:
Resource Efficiency: Sustainable packaging uses fewer materials in design and production. It aims to minimize waste while maintaining product protection.
Recyclability: It is made from materials that can be easily recycled or composted, reducing the amount of waste sent to landfills.
Use Of Recycled Content: Sustainable packaging often incorporates recycled or reused materials, reducing the need for new raw materials.
Biodegradability: Unlike traditional plastic, sustainable packaging materials are often biodegradable, meaning they can break down naturally without causing long-term pollution.
Sustainable packaging offers a host of benefits:
Reduced Environmental Impact: Using less material, producing less waste, and being easier to recycle or compost, sustainable packaging reduces pollution and conserves natural resources.
Improved Brand Image: Consumers are increasingly aware of environmental issues. Companies that use sustainable packaging can enhance their brand image and appeal to these environmentally-conscious
Regulatory Compliance: As environmental regulations become stricter, using sustainable packaging can help businesses stay compliant and avoid potential fines or penalties.
By embracing sustainable packaging practices, businesses can reduce their environmental footprint and reap significant benefits.
Packaging that adorns your product can have serious environmental impact.
Current Innovations And Trends In Sustainable Packaging
The field of sustainable packaging is constantly evolving, with new innovations and trends emerging regularly. Here are some noteworthy developments:
Plant-Based Packaging: Companies are increasingly exploring the use of plant-based materials for packaging. For example, some are using mushroom roots or cornstarch to create biodegradable packaging that can decompose naturally.
Edible Packaging: This innovative approach involves creating packaging that can be eaten along with the product. It’s being used in sectors like food and beverage to reduce waste.
Eco-Friendly Inks: Traditional inks can contain harmful chemicals. Eco-friendly inks, made from soy or other natural materials, are a more sustainable alternative for printing on packaging.
Zero-Waste Packaging: This trend involves designing packaging that can be fully reused, recycled, or composted, leaving no waste behind.
Minimalist Packaging: Companies are reducing the amount of packaging they use, opting for simpler designs and fewer materials. This not only reduces waste but can also lead to cost savings.
Smart Packaging: This involves incorporating technology into packaging to improve its sustainability. For example, some companies are using QR codes to provide information about recycling, reducing the need for printed materials.
The innovations and trends in sustainable packaging highlight the industry’s commitment to reducing environmental impact. As these practices become more widespread, they hold the potential to significantly transform packaging’s role in global sustainability efforts.
How Consumers And Businesses Can Make A Difference
Consumers and businesses play a pivotal role in driving the shift toward more sustainable packaging. Their choices and practices can significantly impact the demand for and use of sustainable packaging materials.
Tips for consumers to reduce packaging waste:
Buy In Bulk: Purchasing items in bulk can reduce the amount of packaging waste generated.
Choose Products With Less Packaging: Opt for products that use minimal or no packaging whenever possible.
Reuse Packaging: Instead of discarding packaging immediately, evaluate its potential for reuse. For instance, glass jars make excellent storage containers.
Recycle Properly: Ensure that packaging materials are properly sorted and recycled.
Support Brands That Use Sustainable Packaging: By choosing to buy from companies that prioritize sustainable packaging, consumers can encourage more businesses to do the same.
Suggestions for businesses to adopt more sustainable packaging practices:
Evaluate Packaging Needs: Assess whether the current amount and type of packaging is necessary or if it can be reduced.
Choose Sustainable Materials: Opt for packaging materials that are recyclable, biodegradable, or made from recycled content.
Educate Consumers: Provide information on packaging about how to properly dispose of it or explain the company’s efforts toward sustainable packaging.
Partner With Sustainable Suppliers: Work with suppliers who prioritize sustainability in their materials and processes.
By taking these steps, consumers and businesses can contribute to reducing the environmental impact of packaging, promoting a more sustainable future.
Conclusion
The environmental impacts of packaging materials are significant, but understanding these impacts is the first step toward mitigating them. Sustainable packaging presents a viable solution, offering benefits not only for the environment but also for businesses and consumers.
With ongoing innovations and a collective commitment to making a difference, it’s possible to transform the packaging industry into a more sustainable one. The journey toward sustainable packaging is a continuous one, but every step taken is a stride toward a healthier planet.
Wastes originate from all stages of leather making process, such as fine leather particles, residues from various chemical discharges and reagents from different waste liquors comprising of large pieces of leather cuttings, trimmings and gross shavings, fleshing residues, solid hair debris and remnants of paper bags.
Tanning refers to the process by which collagen fibers in a hide react with a chemical agent (tannin, alum or other chemicals). However, the term leather tanning also commonly refers to the entire leather-making process. Hides and skins have the ability to absorb tannic acid and other chemical substances that prevent them from decaying, make them resistant to wetting, and keep them supple and durable. The flesh side of the hide or skin is much thicker and softer. The three types of hides and skins most often used in leather manufacture are from cattle, sheep, and pigs.
Out of 1000 kg of raw hide, nearly 850 kg is generated as solid wastes in leather processing. Only 150 Kg of the raw material is converted in to leather. A typical tannery generate huge amount of waste:
Fleshing: 56-60%
Chrome shaving, chrome splits and buffing dust: 35-40%
Skin trimming: 5-7%
Hair: 2-5%
Over 80 per cent of the organic pollution load in BOD terms emanates from the beamhouse (pre-tanning); much of this comes from degraded hide/skin and hair matter. During the tanning process at least 300 kg of chemicals (lime, salt etc.) are added per ton of hides. Excess of non-used salts will appear in the wastewater.
Because of the changing pH, these compounds can precipitate and contribute to the amount of solid waste or suspended solids. Every tanning process step, with the exception of finishing operations, produces wastewater. An average of 35 m3 is produced per ton of raw hide. The wastewater is made up of high concentration of salts, chromium, ammonia, dye and solvent chemicals etc.
A large amount of waste generated by tanneries is discharged in natural water bodies directly or indirectly through two open drains without any treatment. The water in the low lying areas in developing countries, like India and Bangladesh, is polluted in such a degree that it has become unsuitable for public uses. In summer when the rate of decomposition of the waste is higher, serious air pollution is caused in residential areas by producing intolerable obnoxious odours.
Tannery wastewater and solid wastes often find their way into surface water, where toxins are carried downstream and contaminate water used for bathing, cooking, swimming, and irrigation. Chromium waste can also seep into the soil and contaminate groundwater systems that provide drinking water for nearby communities. In addition, contamination in water can build up in aquatic animals, which are a common source of food.
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