Sustainability Today Issue 450

SUSTAINABILITY TODAY

Issue 450 October 2023 Tel: 0121 550 7510 www.businessandindustrytoday.co.uk

energy | water | waste | recycling | sustainability on LinkedIn

and Twitter

Redefining pumping in the biogas industry See PEMO PUMPS on Page XI

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VIII Niton UK

The World’s No.1 Scrap Sorter

Revive from REI Ltd

Units save up to 25 tonnes of harmful CO2

XIV Adveco

Picking a path to more sustainable hot water

Water Treatment

Gilder Environmental, the national partner of many for drainage and liquid waste management

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re you seeking a reliable and top-notch provider of industrial services? Do you require professional and cost effective Effluent Disposal?

The William Gilder Group has been a leader in bulk liquid disposal for over 30 years. running a fleet of well over 50 HGVs equipped with high spec tankers to make them a choice option for anyone looking to move and dispose of liquid.

In 2016 the group launched Gilder Environmental to further the liquid offering and offer more specialist services to the growing customer base.

Gilder Environmental’s industrial services team has grown to become a key partner for many on a national basis managing their liquid waste and facilities drainage needs.

Driven by the team’s success it now consists of rigid tankers of almost all sizes and a Jetvacs to match with 6 & 8 wheeled options with a range of jetting & suction ability. They have now even added a Disab to the fleet enabling them to manage the thickest and heaviest of sludges and silts.

With our willingness to work 24/7 we have become a choice provider for high traffic sites like supermarkets and haulage yards working through the night if needed, minimalising disruption on their operations but ensuring their facilities are

kept in tip top conditions. Again, we offer these of large selection of services both internally and externally including interceptors, gullys, pump stations and move.

Some of the services they offer: t Septic Tank & Cesspit Emptying. t Emergency Drain Unblocking. t Drain Maintenance & Repairs. t CCTV Surveys. t Interceptor, Tank and Sump Pit Cleaning. t Degreasing & Removal of Waste/Sludges. t Cleaning and High-Pressure Jet Washing. t Chemical Decontamination. t Spillage and Pollutions. t Emergency Response.

to treat and we see lots of people trying to save a penny and put them off, However when they go wrong and there are issues, the bills can become astronomical!”

The experts at Gilder Environmental Ltd provide you with reliable, innovative, and tailored solutions that meet your business requirements.

Contact us now to schedule an appointment or enquire about our services.

For further details and to find out more, see the website below: T 01242 509790 T 01242 509792 Waste@wgilder.co.uk www.williamgilder.co.uk/pages/home.aspx

Current Services to be thinking about!

Interceptor and Gullies We spoke to Sam Hibbert, the Gilder Environmental Operations Planner, and asked him what should facilities managers be thinking about heading into winter.

“Having had a relatively hot and dry summer, it’s inevitable the winter is going to be cold and wet!

Every winter we see a huge increase in blockages, flooding and pollution caused by unmaintained gullies and interceptors. This is the time of year to get on top of them and prevent winter issues! Both Gully and interceptor waste are relatively expensive

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Editor Recommends

Amicorp introduces ESG Stoelzle Glass Group's third reporting and rating service Sustainability Report A micorp Group has launched a new service line to help investors and businesses analyse, report and develop their Environmental, Social and Governance (‘ESG’) performance levels – and address mounting regulatory requirements.

The number of countries introducing mandatory ESG reporting around the world is increasing.

In the European Union, financial markets are required to report their sustainable economic activities on an annual basis, as do large and listed companies. Other authorities have also acted on or are exploring similar ESG frameworks and standards, notably in the US, India, Singapore, Hong Kong, United Arab Emirates, Australia, New Zealand and the UK.

Amicorp ESG Services help asset and fund managers, institutional investors and businesses to quickly and easily comply with these tightening regulations and provide the support and insights needed to plan and build an ESG strategy that aligns with their goals and values.

An online platform provides an independent and auditable ESG report that can be shared with regulators, stakeholders and shareholders. It also provides an ESG rating and a light gap analysis using the latest industry benchmarks, to help businesses identify any shortcomings and highlight where improvements can be made. www.amicorp.com

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of 4,000+ companies worldwide and one of a few companies within the European glass industry with an official SBTi climate protection target. Stoelzle Glass Group remains committed to continuous improvement and driving sustainable practices in all aspects of our operations."

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toelzle Glass Group, a leading packaging glass manufacturer is proud to announce the publication of its third Sustainability Report. The report highlights the company's commitment to continuous improvement in sustainability practices focussing on energy, resource efficiency and employees.

Stoelzle’s group-wide science-based decarbonisation targets were submitted to Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), and have now been officially accepted. The company commits to ambitious goals, including a 50% reduction in absolute GHG emissions (scope 1 and 2) by 2030 and a 15% reduction in absolute GHG emissions (scope 3) from a 2019 base year.

Georg Feith, CEO of Stoelzle Glass Group, appreciates this great achievement, "We are proud to be one

As a key aspect of Stoelzle's sustainability roadmap, the company is driving decarbonisation efforts, reducing energy demand in glass production and increasing the use of renewable energy sources. The following milestones have been achieved so far: t Process & Energy Data Management System t Batch Preheater t Organic Rankine Cycle: t Electric Furnace & Feeder Stoelzle Glass Group's Sustainability Report demonstrates its unwavering dedication to sustainability and the implementation of global best practices.

By prioritising decarbonisation, resource efficiency, and circularity, the company strives to be an industry leader in sustainable glass manufacturing.

Click here to download the report www.stoelzle.com

– see them on page XIV

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Industry Excellence

Building Car Trans In this issue of Sustainability Today, we are delighted to award Transporter Engineering with our coveted Industry Excellence Award

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here have been some hotly anticipated new car models hitting the UK roads in 2023: from the Audi Q6 e-tron, Mercedes 5 series G60, to Ford Explorer.

Adaptability is the key to evolving the next generation of car transporters; with car manufacturers endlessly designing new car models, the built-in assumption is that car transporters will seamlessly fit any new model onto transporters.

With load variability, weight distribution, ramp movement tolerances and drop-order sequences in mind, transporter manufacturers are constantly looking at perfecting deck shapes and the degree of articulate up/down.

Transporter Engineering Ltd is the UK’s leading manufacturer of car transporters for 3-12 cars, to UK specifications. With a state-of-the-art manufacturing plant, all transporters are made from start-to-finish on-site. Established in 1992 by Keith Ripper, as part of parent company, Park Hall Group, the manufacturer has grown

exponentially over the last three decades.

The facility is located in a disused airfield in Gosfield, North Essex spanning 300 acres of land. The family-owned company prides itself on Britishbuilt products to over 420 companies around the width and breadth of the UK. With six fitting bays, seven welding bays, paint preparation unit and independently owned air blast on-site, the dedicated team are well equipped for booming market-demand levels.

The Essex-based company not only boasts market-leading profits, but is leading by example with sustainable best practice across the industry. Plans were made in 2016 to turn the 50 acre plot into a solar farm and Anaerobic Digester. With 112 rainy days in Essex annually, it makes sense for the company to collect the rainwater and reuse it across the factory ablutions.

With further consideration given to energy usage, LED lighting and motion-sensitive lighting have been installed throughout the site. The circular economy and local biodiversity are considered at every juncture: interceptors for contaminates are installed in the drainage system, used cans are routinely crushed and recycled and bulk paint usage is monitored through mixing paint at the gun on application, vastly reducing carbon emissions.

We caught up with Isla Gill, Sales and Project Manager, to find out more about the secret behind the success of Transporter Engineering, “We are delighted to share that business is booming: we pride ourselves on providing British-manufactured transporters, saving tonnes of carbon emissions annually. Our on-site stock facility holds over £3M of stock, with an extensive range of spare parts. With a national dealer network across the UK, we hold impress stock at 23 locations and manage 40 service centres.

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Our precision-manufactured transporters are synonymous with premium quality and longevity. With customers across all sectors: from dealerships, auction houses compounds to scrap metal, our name is associated with reliability, quality and dedicated customer service, through our new digital visitor management system. This allows for an enhanced streamlined customer site experience and allows Transporter Engineering to migrate to a paperless system, fully integrating record keeping into one digital hub.

“The COVID-19 pandemic though challenging, gave us the opportunity to thoroughly review our business approach and strategy from top to button. Prior to COVID, we had three core products, we now have five: EV08, Odyssey, Voyager Range, Urban Rigid Range and Juno Range.”

One of the latest launches was for the Urban Rigid Range: successfully showcased at the CARS & MRE 2023 Expo back in May this year. The Urban Rigid is a highly versatile medium sized car transporter, ranging from a dual deck five-car version, flat top deck six-car, to seven-car version, with optionality to increase to an eight-car carrier through the spec frame. This handy vehicle has added capacity for punch decking for new vehicle transfer, durbar steel plate for salvage or ELV transportation or the new hybrid model that incorporates both.

Based on the vehicle in question, the company can supply the suitable tie-down equipment, as well as winches, infilled decks, bike racks and many other accessories.

For more details and to view the photo gallery of The Urban Rigid Range, see the link here: www. transporter-eng.com/transporter-urban-rigid

– see them on page XIV

Industry Excellence

sporters since 1992

The Transporter Voyager Range is well known for its ‘simple-to-load' capacity, with durbar decking and superior winching, making it a popular choice across the automotive and salvage industry.

The semi-trailer is now routinely used in the fleet industry for collecting mixed loads and comes as a seven-car configuration (6 4x4s.) with standard issue punching deck for new and scrap car transportation. There is the option to have fully infilled decks and loading ramps for further uplift.

Hydraulic connections come fitted, with the option to upgrade to electrical powerpack systems. Thus, giving the option to couple with a range of vehicles including alternative fuels.

The original standard Voyager was released in 2012, while the newer Voyager 2 model came out in 2021.

The Voyager trailer comprises of a seven-car layout (equal to six 4x4s), with standardised punching deck for both new and used car movements. The standard and Voyager 2 are fitted with hydraulic connections, with optional boosts to electrical powerpack systems. Further fully infilled decks and fully powered loading ramps are also available as additional uplift options.

For more details, see the link here: www.transporter-eng.com/transporter-voyager The sister product of the EVO8 is The Odyssey, one of the newer models from Transporter Engineering and offers 10, 11 or 12 car capacity options. Our Odyssey 2 is a lightweight evolution from the

original 2018 model & will be showcased at a special invite-only event at Volvo UK in Warwick in 2024, in conjunction with the RHA Transport Division.

For more information see this link: www.transporter-eng. com/transporter-odyssey We spoke with Managing Director, Barry Poulter, about the business’ future, “Looking towards 2024, we are excited to announce that we have a newly formed Product Support & Development Team, who are poised to take care of all our existing and new customers across the country.

We are reaffirming our commitment to customer service and are looking forward to building and strengthening more face-to-face customer relationships.

project to develop a new, lighter, stronger more efficient and sustainable fleet of transporters.

“We are delighted to receive the Industry Excellence Award, it is testament to the hard work of our whole team and we look forward to continuing our commitment to excellence over the coming years,” concluded Managing Director, Barry Poulter.

To book a site tour, load demonstration or to view full product range, see the website below: T +44 (0)1787 478490 enquiries@transporter-eng.co.uk www.transporter-eng.com

“A further development for 2024 is a continued collaboration with the Anglia Ruskin University after a successful Keep Plus project in 2021/22.

We have just secured a KTP partnership undertaking a 26 month

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Noise Monitoring & Noise Measurement Company of the Month

Cirrus Research: The w trusted name in acoust F

ounded in 1970, Cirrus Research has been helping organisations around the world protect people and the environment from the dangers of excessive noise exposure for more than 50 years. Since its inception, Cirrus Research has developed ground-breaking product innovation. From the introduction of its first in a range of Sound Level Meters in 1977 that would become known as the CRL 230 series, the company has gone on to create some of the industry's most prolific and useful products that have changed the game when it comes to the prevention and eradication of noiseinduced hearing loss and environmental noise pollution.

“At Cirrus Research, we design and develop solutions to make monitoring and measuring noise and vibration easier and more accessible. As one of the world's leading designers, manufacturers, and suppliers of noise measurement instruments, we can be trusted to provide accurate, reliable and easy-to-use equipment that will stand up to scrutiny and allow our clients to reduce the devastating effects of excessive noise and vibration exposure in the workplace and the environment,” stated Darren Wallis, Managing Director.

Cirrus Research is a name that is known worldwide and has expanded its operation globally serving customers across six continents in more than 100 countries. Cirrus Research is highly respected in the acoustics sector and has worked and partnered

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In this issue of Sustainability Today, we are pleased to announce Cirrus Research as our Noise Monitoring & Noise Measurement Company of the Month with many organisations in the aviation, construction, entertainment, and motorsport industries.

Of course, this level of achievement comes hand in hand with an excellent customer service offering which the company is extremely proud of.

Always conducting themselves in a friendly, approachable, and professional manner, Cirrus Research works with their customers to drive positive change in the industry wherever necessary. Customers can be reassured in knowing that Cirrus Research has a Quality Management system that is certified by BSI to the requirements of ISO 9001:2015.

Daren Wallis said, “We are particularly pleased to have achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification as it underlines our commitment to our customers and our focus on quality. This recognition demonstrates we can provide a quality product from quotation to delivery.

This achievement was a direct result of the entire company working together effectively to develop and maintain our excellent quality standards to achieve customer satisfaction, standardisation, and continuous improvement of our internal processes.”

Cirrus Research has a vast range of products that are useful for a number of different applications and solutions. From handheld Sound Level Meters to Noise Nuisance Recorders, Noise measurement kits, Environmental Noise Monitors and

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more. Each of their products are designed to make the monitoring and measuring of noise easier and more accessible than ever before.

Two instruments worth noting are from the Cloud-Based Noise Monitoring range.

The Quantum Indoor Noise Monitor is designed to take your noise monitoring programme to the next level.

Quantum Indoor is a powerful noise monitoring solution with built-in cloud connectivity, perfectly suited for unattended indoor noise monitoring across a range of applications.

It can be used simultaneously to complement any existing noise monitoring regime for indoor applications. Some of its uses include: t Being used for long-term occupational noise monitoring t Highlighting where noise control measures are required t Identifying the source and type of noise that is occurring.

This product is ideal for those working in factories, warehouses, music venues, theatres, stadiums, hospitals, educational establishments, offices and call centres. Some other key features include the ability to connect to Cirrus Research’s unique MyCirrus cloud platform; 1:1 and 1:3 octave band filters for detailed

– see them on page XIV

Noise Monitoring & Noise Measurement Company of the Month

world’s most tics environmental analysis; Over-the-air updates, Realtime SMS, email, webhook and push notification alerts based on user-defined noise level triggers; Electronic calibration certificates available through MyCirrus, and much more.

Quantum Outdoor is a cloud-connected remote noise monitor for unattended measurements.

Marketed as Cirrus Research’s first fully integrated cloud-based solution, it has been integrated with Cirrus Research’s world-leading noise measurement technology, with the ability to simultaneously measure noise, dust, gaseous pollutants, and vibration together with weather, wind speed, and direction to reduce any environmental risks for the customer.

Quantum Outdoor works in any environment for any industry, including rail, entertainment, smart cities, power generation and renewables, transport and logistics, construction and demolition, and aviation. It fully meets all the performance requirements of IEC 61672-1 to Class 1, and Quantum Indoor meets all the requirements of Class 2, with Class 1 performance as an upgrade option. With both Quantum Indoor and Quantum Outdoor, you can enjoy having all of your connected instruments in the Quantum Portal where you can also set your personal configurations depending on your monitoring needs, view live data as it happens or your stored data on any device anywhere around the world. Quantum Outdoor offers you the very best solution for remote monitoring.

Tailored for motorsport venues, the updated track mode in the Quantum Portal offers custom views and features, ensuring effortless noise level monitoring and management.

Track Mode becomes an enhanced addition to any motorsport venue by boasting high levels of user-friendliness, secure data management, event management, SMART relay integration and My Cirrus integration.

With the added Open Application Planning Interface (API), users can experience flexibility and on-demand data access with the enhanced open API. Tailor your data points and integrate them into existing systems, unlocking limitless possibilities for data utilisation. This interface is compatible with both standard and pro subscription users and is suitable for a range of applications.

The newest version of the Quantum Portal offers enhanced support for the Trolex Air XDi, meaning you can monitor real-time dust with precision even in high-concentration environments, ensuring continuous safety and compliance. This user interface improves: t Event quick view offering enhanced user experience with audio file accessibility t Graph improvements giving users custom and auto-scaling for detailed data view t Dark mode for reduced screen glare and battery consumption t Instrument view for a comprehensive full page view

Quantum Portal is your companion for smart city development, industrial monitoring, environmental conservation, and R&D projects. Transform raw, real-time data into actionable insights, ensuring informed decision-making and innovative solutions.

Whether you work with occupational or environmental noise monitoring, Cirrus Research is your go-to source for industry-leading measurement instruments. Experience the very best in precision and reliability with their state-ofthe-art solutions.

See below for details on how to get in touch: T 01723 891655 sales@cirrusresearch.com www.cirrusresearch.co.uk

In its newest update, the Quantum Portal raises the bar in noise management solutions, aligning an unparalleled user experience with state-of-the-art features.

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Recycling & Waste Management

The Breteau Foundation

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he Breteau Foundation, a nonprofit organisation with a vision to provide access to quality education for all children, has teamed up with award-winning global independent animation studios ZAG and Mediawan Kids & Family to create an initiative aiming to inspire the next generation of ambassadors for change in the fight against plastic – Plastic Changemakers.

Created by educational and environmental experts and aligned to curricula, the FREE Plastic Changemakers Education Pack for teachers contains five modules for 7-11 year olds and seeks to equip children with a comprehensive knowledge about plastics and how individuals and communities can use it more responsibly. It is set out to address

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the clear demand from teachers with a comprehensive Education Pack that contains a flexible set of ready-to-go lesson plans and activities designed to empower children to affect change.

The Breteau Foundation surveyed over 500 UK primary school teacher and found they have collectively spent £13 million of their own funds to provide pupils with environmental education. Teachers taking part in the study identified plastic pollution as being the most important subject to address when teaching children about the environment, followed by the climate crisis and sustainability.

Teachers can register for their free Plastic Changemakers pack by going to: https://breteaufoundation.org/ plastic-changemaker-site/

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Global Offshore Wind 2023 Review – Top Exhibitors

Global Offshore Wind 2023

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he offshore wind industry gathered together at London’s ExCeL from 14-15 June 2023 at the start of an offshore wind revolution in the UK. The industry has been set a target to quadruple offshore wind in just a few short years so that consumers across Britain will benefit from home-grown, cheap, renewable power.

That goal comes with challenges – gearing up investment into the supply chain, reforming markets to make them more resilient and sustainable, managing soaring global commodity prices, scaling up floating offshore wind – and all at a time when the countries around the world are also choosing to ramp up their own offshore ambitions.

The show demonstrated what the sector does best; collaborating and innovating so that, together, it can solve the challenges ahead and deliver a renewable energy future.

Highlights for 2023 included: Ground-breaking conference with 200 speakers, Buzzing exhibition with 260 companies, and Networking opportunities with 5,000 attendees from 50+ countries.

The Minister for Energy Security and Net Zero, Graham Stuart, underlined his commitment to continue to work closely with the offshore sector to deliver more jobs and investment into the UK. Speaking at the opening of Global Offshore Wind 2023, he told delegates: “While our flagship Contracts for Difference scheme has been immensely successful to date and much repeated around the world, we aren’t resting on our laurels. We know that prices can go up as well as down, and I’m very aware that we’re in a hugely competitive and challenging economic context. We

Active Training Team

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he UK is a world leader in offshore wind. In such a rapidly developing sector, constant evolution of health and safety practices is essential. G+, the health and safety organisation for the offshore wind sector, recorded 348 safety incidents in the UK during 2022.

Renewable energy leaders Ørsted wanted to develop a ground-breaking safety programme for everybody involved in the construction of Hornsea 2, the world’s biggest offshore windfarm, and create a safety legacy for the sector. Ørsted partnered with innovators in safety leadership, Active Training Team Ltd (ATT), to build a cuttingedge learning centre in Immingham.

Designed according to sound neuroscientific, psychological and learning theory principles, Thrive is a one-day, immersive safety leadership programme using multimedia, live drama and experiential learning to transform behaviours and attitudes.

Thrive is now being deployed as a dynamic learning resource by

organisations across the renewables and related sectors. A new iteration of the Thrive programme is now supporting personnel working on projects’ onshore phases. Since its launch in 2020, Thrive’s revolutionary approach has significantly enhanced safety in the offshore wind industry: 93% of the 4,169 participants who have attended to date state that when it comes to safety, they see themselves as a leader.

For further information, visit: www.activetrainingteam.co.uk or email: info@activetrainingteam.co.uk

activetrainingteam.co.uk

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want to ensure we have resilient and innovative supply chains. That’s why we’re looking at ambitious reforms to the CfD to ensure that it continues to provide sustainable prices for future projects, so that developers have the confidence to invest in infrastructure for the long term.”

He added, “I welcome the work to produce an Industrial Growth Plan that builds on the UK’s strengths an advantages across the lifecycle to capture the value of combined Government and industry effort. We’re working closely with industry to develop a globally competitive offshore wind supply chain for the long term.”

Global Offshore Wind 2024 returns to Manchester Central from 18-19 June 2024. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Active Training Team & 6 Alpha Associates. Further details can be found on this page. https://events.renewableuk.com/gow23

The bomb disposal business is dangerous A

nd the requirement to minimise adverse environmental impact offshore, has only been superseded by the requirement to provide absolute safety.

detonating it in situ, which delivers a host of environmentally friendly and alternative remediation solutions that critically, prevents marine mammal injuries and fatalities.”

Traditionally, Unexploded Ordnance UXO discovered offshore during windfarm construction and cable installation, has been detonated wherever and whenever it is found, which has in the past generated a host of marine mammal fatalities amongst other adverse environmental impacts.

At its core, the system boasts a state-of-the-art design, seamlessly integrating a bomb-clamp and remotely operated winch, which are deployed from a small support boat.

6 Alpha’s Offshore Project Manager, Adam Wheeler, said, “This system is truly transformative; we have tested it extensively and it presents a new, proven solution that is not only environmentally friendly but also provides a step-change in UXO relocation safety.”

6 Alpha’s new Sub Surface UXO Relocation System (SURS) is a ground-breaking solution that has been designed to remotely move offshore UXO, delivering a bespoke, safe solution whilst undertaking what has hitherto been, a very risky activity.

6 Alpha’s founder and Managing Director, Simon Cooke, said, “This new system enables us to simply moving UXO out of the way rather than

6 Alpha’s UK UXO business is based in Suffolk but the company also delivers international UXO risk management solutions through their network of offices in US, EU and South-East Asia. www.6alpha.com

– see them on page XIV

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Environmental Testing

Panasonic introduces ZY Series to its Advanced Energy Recovery Ventilation range

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anasonic Heating & Cooling Solutions is launching its new Advanced Energy Recovery Ventilation (ERV) ZY Series. The new series consists of an extended 9 model line-up including a 2,000m3/h model, all integrated with DC motors with independent control setting for air supply and exhaust.

An ERV is essential to buildings to provide fresh filtered air inside.

Through its ventilation system it ensures the air is not contaminated nor contains any odours potentially penetrating the new supply of air.

The units possess an external static pressure (ESP) advancing up to 150 Pa with an F7 grade filter built-in as standard. In addition to this, the new ZY series has an impressive recovery power of up to 83% of heat exchange efficiency. This high recovery rate further optimises cost and can be considered a sustainable solution.

Incorporated into the new models is two backdraft shutters, unique to Panasonic. Its key role is to prevent

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air flowing in the wrong direction when the ERV is turned off and not operating.

Additionally, the ERV has three connection options available: group control with a maximum of two ERV systems, direct connection to field supply switch, and ERV operation in conjunction with heating and cooling systems. The ZY series also introduces a new remote controller.

Information is clearly visible through a black light and white background whilst also containing a backbox as standard. The controller is available to be integrated with BMS through the RS485 terminal. www.aircon.panasonic.eu

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Pumps & Valves

Redefining pumping in the biogas industry W

ith the UK Government’s 2050 Net-Zero targets looming, the full potential of the biogas industry is finally being realised.

With over 600 anaerobic digestion (AD) plants now operating across the country and a phenomenal biogas capacity of 2,721 megawatts, this translates to annual greenhouse gas emission cuts of 1% (with predictions of 6% by 2030 if all organic waste is treated through AD). Biomethane is therefore a solid substitute for fossil natural gas and going forward, offers a fully decarbonisation of the gas industry.

PEMO PUMPS was a resounding hit at this September’s RWM (part of ESS) Expo at the NEC, where the focus was on the importance of the circular economy. The team brought an example pump with them and were particularly interested in talking to customers from the biogas industry.

PEMO PUMPS are compliant with the European

Community’s Waste Directive, through its leading OFMSW treatment phases and supply compost to agriculture and floriculture. The OFMSW treatment phases reduce unnecessary landfill waste, markedly reducing carbon footprint and contributing wholeheartedly to the circular economy.

Established in 1947 by Antonio Perissinotto, the marketleading company started with washing silica sands and later diversified into supplying pumps for the marble and granite cutting processes, chemical, wastewater treatment, steel industry, mining, filter press, oil & gas, through to ceramics and food and beverage sector, as a brand of Perissinotto SpA. The anti-abrasive and anti-acid slurry pumps are manufactured at the cutting-edge Milan warehouse and customers can choose from 25 basic pump models, across vertical, horizontal, submersible and multi-stage versions.

With customers across 100 countries around the world, this Italian Powerhouse has enjoyed exponential growth over the decades and is happy to offer consultation around customised pumps for a variety of applications.

PEMO PUMPS are centrifugal pump pioneers, with precision-designed advanced speed motors to feed filter presses and already well established across the UK and French aggregates and stone processing applications for slurry transfers and feeding filter presses.

The focus at RWM 2023 was to create more brand awareness across the biogas and biomethane production chains, where robust pumps are routinely used. The anti-abrasive centrifugal pumps have

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astounding anaerobic digestion processing capabilities, in recirculating OFMSW and provide a game-changer for the biogas industry.

The semi-open impellers and anti-clogging volutes in the pumps are conducive to the meticulous transfer of highly viscous substrates. The HARDALLY PEMO superalloy is weathering-resistant and provides supercharged flow rates up to 1,500m3/h providing long-time efficiency, without the costly maintenance of single-screw pumps.

To find out more about a fully customised pump today and a six-month testing trial period, see the website below: T +39 02 250 731 www.pemopumps.com

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Flood & Coast 2023 Review – Top Exhibitors

Bringing together a community for a sustainable future F lood & Coast, held at Telford’s International Centre from 6-8 June 2023, is a unique event that attracts exhibitors, speakers and visitors from around the world to advance the debate about the impacts of climate change on flood and coastal erosion risk management (FCERM).

“Flood & Coast provided a space to share and debate innovative solutions to managing the increased risk of flooding in our fast-changing climate. It was also a space to network and an opportunity to learn from experts spanning our diverse sector.

“This year the event featured a first-class programme of plenaries, action-packed schedule of side events and workshops, a lively exhibition hall where 60+ organisations signed up to have a presence, the Innovation Hub, Early Careers and Education Zone, the Flood & Coast Excellence Awards and many more.”

& Coast Excellence Awards dinner which joyously celebrated team and individual achievements.

Flood & Coast is not just an industry-leading annual event. It is an inclusive, diverse community of people working towards a sustainable future.

It’s a space to share, debate and celebrate innovative solutions aimed at helping the people and places most at risk from flooding and coastal erosion.

The CIWEM and Environment Agency conference team worked hard behind the scenes with support from an advisory committee of experts from across the sector. The event had a first class programmed featuring leading national and international voices from the flooding, coastal erosion and climate change world, spanning topics from adaptation at the coast to building teams fit for the future.

Beyond the plenaries was an action-packed schedule of side events, a lively exhibition hall that welcomed over 75 organisations, and the Flood

This year’s event featured an array of worldclass speakers, including experts in flood risk management, climate change, coastal erosion, and resilience. Attendees also participated in interactive workshops, networking sessions, and site visits to see innovative flood and coastal defence projects in action.

In addition to the main conference programme, Flood & Coast 2023 featured an exhibition highlighting the latest products, technologies, and services in the field of FCERM.

Flood & Coast returns to Telford’s International Centre next year. This is our pick of the best exhibitors from this year’s event, listed here in alphabetical order: Marlan Maritime Technologies Ltd. Further details can be found on this page. www.ciwem.org/events/flood-and-coastconference-and-exhibition-2023

“The Flood & Coast Conference and Exhibition has become a must-attend event for the world’s leaders in FCERM,” said CIWEM Head of Events, Irina Danilova.

CoastSense: Understand where sea meets land M ulti-award-winning Marlan Maritime Technologies Ltd was back at the annual Flood and Coast Conference 2023 to showcase the CoastSense data service: costeffective, continuous monitoring of the physical coastal environment using a shore-based, autonomous sensor platform.

CoastSense data is delivered to those responsible for managing our coastline (coastal authorities, research institutions and engineering consultants) and enables them to make better evidence-based decisions through deeper understanding of the changing coast.

Coastal erosion hit the headlines earlier this year when Hemsby Beach in Norfolk was closed due to substantial erosion, which resulted in costly evacuations from homes and businesses. The British Geological Survey found that the exceptionally narrow beach at Hemsby means reduced natural coastal defence and increased wave action on the cliff front. With rising sea levels and foreshore erosion, many more coastal areas around the country will need to consider shoreline realignment for continued safety and sustainability.

Our beaches continue to get smaller and are under pressure from increasingly frequent extreme weather events. As a result, coastal communities, their councils, the Environment Agency and DEFRA are preparing for climateaccelerated coastal change. For the last two hundred years, coastal management has focused on building coastal defence structures to prevent erosion, but many of these are now old and damaged. Consequently, there

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has been a change of focus away from large-scale, hardengineered sea defences, towards schemes that work with nature. Coastal communities are on their journey to adapt to a rapidly changing coastline for the long-term.

Intertidal topography, bathymetry, currents and wave data at high resolution in time (surveyed at least every 2 weeks) are delivered direct to CoastSense users. By supplying these continuous, multi-parameter observations of the nearshore environment, CoastSense offers users a deeper understanding of the natural processes, enabling more effective, confident management decisions and reducing environmental impact.

CoastSense is ideal for monitoring extensive, remote and complex coastal areas; especially dynamic intertidal areas that are traditionally difficult and expensive to survey.

The near-real time data enables rapid responses to unexpected changes in weather, morphology or damage caused by storms – particularly important in flood and coastal erosion risk management (FCERM).

As climate change progresses, so does the impact on our coastline and the teams charged with managing these rapid and complex coastal changes have a lot of unanswered questions.

CoastSense will help reveal the answers.

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Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning

Picking the right path to more sustainable hot water F

or commercial building projects the recent shift in net zero policy by the government is likely to have little impact on strategies that address energy demands, especially for the provision of hot water, a potentially key contributor to both operational costs and carbon emissions. Understanding and addressing hot water generation should therefore be an important part of an organisation’s net zero planning, but the optimal route will depend on the building, its infrastructure and usage.

Adveco Live Metering of the hot water demands of a building is a quick, non-invasive, and extremely cost-effective means of gauging needs. It also provides application design which enables owner/ managers to develop realistic and sustainable development strategies which deliver active results today with low to no impact on ongoing operations.

Unless a new build, which will be electrical-based, most refurbishments will look to either improve on existing gas systems, deploying modern ultralow emission, hydrogen

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blend ready appliances, or aim to completely replace them with electrical alternatives, typically air source heat pumps (ASHP) and/or direct-electric heating. The latter comes at a cost, in terms of capital and especially operational expense, but does reduce carbon emissions.

FUSION from Adveco is the next generation of electric water heating for commercial projects. This compact, easy-to-install and robust, high-efficiency range of pre-sized electric water heaters can incorporate a system-integrated monobloc FPi-32 ASHP. The FPI-32 and advanced controls deliver balanced system preheat so that electrical demand on the boiler is reduced by as much as 30%, delivering operational savings and reducing carbon emissions by up to 71%.

Acting as pre-heat for both gas-fired or electrically heated water systems, or mid-heat for an electric system taking full advantage of an ASHP pre-heating the cold feed, solar thermal delivers undisputed carbon and cost savings. Modular, high-performance flat plate collectors

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are by far the most efficient way to heat water with solar energy, offering a smaller footprint compared to equivalent solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. With integrated drain back to protect the solar fluid (glycol) which is used to transfer solar energy as heat to the system’s water via an indirect cylinder Adveco’s solar thermal is a low-maintenance, more cost-effective and more efficient approach to incorporating solar energy. A well-maintained solar thermal system should further reduce carbon and easily 30% of annual energy requirements for a less than 10 year return on investment. www.adveco.co

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Editor Recommends

NFU Energy unveils brand-new energy price comparison tool N

FU Energy, one of the UK’s leading energy consultancies, has launched a brand-new energy price comparison website. This new tool aims to empower businesses across all sectors by enabling them to easily compare energy prices and switch to suppliers offering more favourable deals tailored to their needs.

With energy costs being a significant expense for a variety of enterprises, finding the most competitive energy deals is crucial. This user-friendly online comparison tool simplifies the process of comparing and switching energy suppliers. Businesses can input their energy consumption details and preferences, such as contract length and trading type, and in just a few clicks, they can view a comprehensive list of energy suppliers’ tailored offers, making it easier than ever to evaluate and select the best option for their business.

enable businesses to benefit from exclusive rates and favourable contract terms that may not be available through other channels. By using the tool, businesses can potentially unlock significant savings on their energy bills, as well as saving valuable time and effort.

NFU Energy is committed to supporting UK businesses in their pursuit of sustainability and profitability. The launch of this online energy price comparison tool is part of its ongoing efforts to provide businesses with the tools and resources needed to navigate the evolving energy landscape efficiently.

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NFU Energy has established strong partnerships with a wide network of energy suppliers, ensuring a diverse range of options. These partnerships

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Environmental Testing & Monitoring

Simple industrial pollution monitoring with AQMesh A

QMesh is being used for industrial air pollution monitoring around the world because it brings together a range of features and services that have been tailored to the needs of construction, mining, petrochemical and other industrial applications.

The key benefit is just how much can be done with one small, compact, neat and easily-installed unit. Each ‘pod’ is fully customisable, allowing full flexibility of the measurements offered, from a single gas sensor to a ‘fully loaded’ air quality station, measuring six gases, four particulate matter fractions, noise and wind speed and direction. Built to order and fully tested in two weeks, pods can be specified to suit each project at build – or afterwards; requirements can change and it is helpful to be able to reconfigure existing equipment.

As well as long service life expected (all AQMesh pods are sold with a five year manufacturer’s warranty

and many have been in use for over ten years) the ability to reconfigure rather than repurchase makes AQMesh an environmentally friendly solution. Pods are tough, designed – and proven – to withstand extremes of temperature, high winds, torrential rain, snow, and are designed for the additional challenges from industrial sites with potentially complex emissions.

Wherever pods are installed, data from all channels are transmitted using any available phone network, repeating connections and storing data where the phone signal is very weak. This provides a complete solution, with readings securely accessed online or transferred to the client database. All data from all pods are completely owned by the user – not the manufacturer or service provider – and nobody else has access to the site’s pollution data.

From installation to output, the AQMesh system reduces time and risk on the ground. Pods are small

and can be held in one hand up a ladder, with only a single universal power cable, which can be connected to a smart solar pack or a direct power supply. Battery operation is another option, and no loggers or wiring are required for data transmission.

Mindful of the costs of local field support, pods require only a twoyear maintenance visit for sensor replacement. All other support can be carried out remotely, with proactive diagnostics for faults or data quality flagging. Sensors failing in the field are immediately detected remotely and a free replacement is sent to site if the sensor is in warranty. After over 10 years of experience monitoring in harsh climates and a range of applications, the AQMesh team is able to offer automated data QA, as well as unlimited customer service and support no matter where you are, how many pods you have or how long you’ve had them.

The team is keen to engage with existing and new customers to find solutions, honestly highlight relevant

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limitations, and be as much part of the client team as the client would like. From a single pod rental to proactive management of a large network, AQMesh and the team can direct this best-in-class technology to provide real value. Measurement of multiple pollutants, at multiple locations, can provide much more powerful insight about what is going on in the air than modelling alone, and has the potential to inform site management.

So where to start? AQMesh offers a first step to address curiosity about local air pollution on or around any site, with full confidentiality. Fixed price packages include equipment use, connection and data access and interpretation of readings.

For more information about how the AQMesh team can help get you started on your monitoring journey, chat to us today.

Contact T +44 (0)1789 777703 info@aqmesh.com www.aqmesh.com

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External Wall Insulation Company of the Month

Structherm: Structural

Insulating Britain’s hard to treat

I

n this issue of Sustainability Today, we are delighted to select Structherm Ltd as our External Wall Insulation Company of the Month.

Structherm Ltd is a leading External Wall Insulation (EWI) system-designer, widely known for its unique structural cage system. The Structherm Cage System is used to stabilise and insulate a wide range of non-traditional, hard-to-treat or structurally defective properties and high-rise buildings.

Established over forty years ago, the company supplies a thoroughly comprehensive range of External Wall Insulation systems, renders and finishes, to a wide range of applications across the UK, from housing associations, social landlords, local councils, education authorities, energy providers, health & social care providers, consultants, architects, specifiers and main contractors.

Structherm Ltd were formed in 1982 when the innovative structural External Wall Insulation panel was first developed and manufactured.

Today, Structherm is an industry-leading expert in EWI solutions, with factory and offices based in Meltham, Holmfirth, near Huddersfield.

We spoke to Managing Director, Mark Harrison, to find out more about the insulation supply portfolio from this Industry leading company, “We design, manufacture and supply an extensive range of External Wall Insulation Systems and solutions with unparalleled technical skills and expertise that have been built up over the last four decades. We have gained an enviable reputation for finding solutions for the most difficult hard to treat property types.”

“We first achieved BBA certification for our

Winslow Health Centre

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Structural EWI solution in 1989 and now have an extensive range of BBA certified EWI solutions.

Our emphasis has always been on providing high quality, dependable, reliable, safe and sustainable products and services. To achieve this, we also operate all our design and manufacturing processes to our own Integrated Management System (IMS). The IMS incorporates ISO-9001 Quality, ISO-14001 Environmental and ISO-45001 Health & safety Management systems. This ensures all our processes are to the very highest standards of customer satisfaction and support.”

Glasgow Boathouse

“Our unique Structural External Wall Insulation system is our best-known EWI solution. It is used to insulate and stabilise a wide range of ‘hard to treat’, structurally defective properties and is widely used on system built, non-traditional housing, schools, medical centres and also used as a floor-to-floor spanning system on high rise buildings.”

“We have continually developed our unique and innovative range of EWI products and solutions over the years including our own ArtBrick™ brick effect renders, RoofLine rain water management systems and ThermaBase insulation for below DPC.”

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Structherm’s systems and associated products have been developed to provide solutions for a number of EWI applications including: t EWI – A full range of EWI systems with a wide range of insulation types, textures, finishes and colour schemes for use on solid wall properties t Structural EWI – a unique Structural cage system used to stabilise and insulate Nontraditional, hard to treat or structurally defective properties and high rise buildings t ArtBrick™ an acrylic render finish designed to create, or replicate, real brick, stone and wood finishes. This is ideal for conservation/heritage areas subject to strict planning constraints. t Structherm RoofLine™ a fully-integrated robust eaves and verge rainwater system that provides a fully sealed and insulated gutter solution specifically designed for EWI systems. t Structherm ThermaBase™ a pre-finished insulation panel, used to insulate below DPC to ground level.

Structherm’s systems are applied on site through a national network of Approved Installation Contractors (AICs). Each contractor is carefully selected, trained and monitored to ensure the highest levels of quality and dependability and to ensure the upmost consideration for health, safety and environmental impacts.

Structherm have completed many thousands of schemes over the years including many prestigious and Industry award winning retrofit renovations.

Projects range from single Grade 2 listed conservation buildings to whole housing estates, schools, medical centres and high-rise buildings.

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After The UK has an impressive array of fine Victorian architecture with many elegant terraced houses where the brick or stone architectural features and characteristics need to be conserved in order to meet strict planning constraints. This is where the unique finishes such as ArtBrick™ are invaluable.

When approved by Local Authority planning departments, this allows for thermally upgrading buildings that would otherwise be left as they were built with poor thermal efficiency.

Another recent Structherm project used an A2-

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External Wall Insulation Company of the Month

insulated façades properties since 1982 rated mineral fibre ArtBrick™ solution and ThermaBase on an NHS Health Centre in Winslow, North Buckinghamshire.

The superb exterior ArtBrick™ brick finish, gave this building a muchneeded makeover and improved the thermal efficiency of this much used community resource.

The Glasgow Boathouse is another such example where the Grade 2 listed building required a full renovation.

The EWI system needed to be carefully selected to sympathetically restore the Boathouse by retaining the characterful architectural features. The structure had suffered severe weathering of wet and dry rot in the timbers over the years.

The Structural EWI system was used by spanning between the oak frame structure to enhance stability and was finished with a silicone render. The exact quoins, string and plinth finishing were replicated, through pre-formed mouldings, completing a stunning transformation of this beautiful historical building. The Boathouse had a grand reopening in May this year, complete with a full flotilla of boats, proudly bearing a specially commissioned flag.

Structherm also run certified-CPD bookable seminars/webinars to increase awareness and knowledge of how to treat non-traditional properties and high-rise buildings. These include a CPD session entitled, ‘Structural external wall

insulation & the Stoke Crosswalls refurbishment of nontraditional homes.’ This covers the alternatives to demolition in non-traditional homes and flats, encompassing low and highrise buildings.

Before The modules include: EWI versus Structural EWI, installation of the EWI system, installation and finishing of the Structural EWI system.

The CPD training is specifically aimed at architects, consultants, engineers, specifiers, local authorities and housing associations across England, Wales and Scotland. The CPD training can take place either at the Structherm Huddersfield offices, individual company premises, or by webinars that can be accessed via online sessions.

The future of Structherm looks bright, we spoke to Technical Director, Julian Taylor, to find out more about what the future holds, “We proudly celebrated our 40th anniversary last year, showing we have the staying power to remain at the top of our game in this industry. We aim to be the UK's No 1 go-to company to provide EWI solutions for technically challenging, hard to decarbonise properties, schools and high-rise buildings.”

After “We are focused on our commitment to sustainability now and in the decades to come.

Our in-house environmental committee is focused on optimising energy efficiencies to reduce our carbon footprint. This translates to decarbonisation, emission reduction, energy conservation, the most efficient use of resources and optimised recycling. Retrofit refurbishment forms an integral part of the nation’s drive towards net-zero by improving thermal efficiency and we are committed to support that by future-proofing our homes and buildings to provide an improved quality of life for inhabitants and workers. Structherm refurbishments can reduce fabric heat losses by up to 75% through the walls, with cutting-edge External Wall Insulation, further reducing heating costs and carbon emissions dramatically.”

For further information on Structherm, see the details below: T 01484 850098 info@structherm.co.uk www.structherm.co.uk

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Water Management

Bluewater offers solution for anyone concerned about PFAS and other chemicals in their tap water

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new study by the US Geological Survey (USGS) indicates that at least 45% of US tap water may be contaminated by one or more types of forever chemicals known as per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances, or PFAS. PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals used across various applications, from the linings of fast-food boxes and non-stick cookware to firefighting foams, pesticides, cosmetic creams, furnishing textiles, and outdoor clothing.

“The USGS findings are both shocking and scary as PFAS has been found in tap and bottled water around the world and linked to numerous adverse human health effects,” says Bengt Rittri, the founder and CEO of the global beverage and water purification company Bluewater. Worryingly, PFAS have been found in UK tap water in several studies, with a BBC study finding them to exceed European safety levels, which are more stringent than the existing safety levels for England and Wales.

A Swedish environmental entrepreneur who has made it his life mission to bring safe and healthier water to everyone, Mr Rittri noted the US Environmental Protection Agency EPA warns that high concentrations of PFAS chemicals have been linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia in pregnant women as well as kidney or testicular cancer, raised cholesterol levels, and damage to the immune system, for example.

Dr Ahmed Fawzy, PhD, a senior research scientist at Bluewater who carried out the tests at KTH verified by Eurofins, said little detailed information is available regarding which specific PFAS are used in what applications and to what extent. “Due to the uncertainty, we decided to independently test the PFAS removal efficiency of our Bluewater Pro water purifier,” he said.

The tests encompassed the four most common PFAS compounds in drinking water listed by the Swedish National Food Agency, PFOA, PFOS, PFBA, and PFBS.

Bengt Rittri, Bluewater founder and CEO

tests, Bluewater has confirmed its purifiers successfully remove up to 99.99% of the health-threatening PFAS chemicals, such as PFOA, PFOS, PFBA, and PFBS. The Bluewater research was carried out in a laboratory at the prestigious Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm (KTH), and the results were verified by the independent bio-analytical testing group Eurofins.

“The long-term tail of PFAS contamination is such that even if the release of the toxic chemicals was stopped tomorrow, they would continue to be present in the environment and humans for many generations,” Mr Rittri said. He said the USGS research adds tremendous urgency for why our schools, businesses, and consumers need to take water purification into their own hands right where they work, rest and play.

Solution exists There are solutions for worried consumers and businesses, however. In independent

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Dr Fawzy said, “We deliberately contaminated the water entering the Bluewater Pro with PFAS at concentrations higher than average levels and then fed the water through the Bluewater purifier.

Testing the purified water revealed an unequivocal result; Bluewater’s unique second-generation SuperiorOsmosis™ technology had removed up to 99.99% of all the PFAS chemicals we tested for.”

About Bluewater Bluewater has set its sights on being the world’s most planet-friendly beverage company by innovating disruptive water purification technologies for home, work and play. Providing hydration solutions that are generated and distributed at the point of use, combined with reusable stainless steel and glass bottles, allows Bluewater to break the stranglehold of single-use plastic bottles and their unnecessary, polluting transportation.

Bluewater products are available to consumers, hotel and catering operations, and event and venue organisations in Europe, the USA, the UK, China, SouthEast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.

Bluewater has been honoured with two Fast Company World Changing Ideas Awards, a K&B Kitchen Innovation of the Year Award, and numerous other publications have recognised its sustainability efforts.

Ahmed Fawzy, Bluewater research scientist

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For more information, visit: www.bluewatergroup.com, or call David Noble on +44 (0)7785 302694.

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Water Management

Aliaxis unveils new next generation boundary box to provide unrivalled protection against contaminants F luid management solutions provider Aliaxis has enhanced its Protecta-Line barrier system offering with the introduction of the new Protecta-Line Boundary Box, the only completely plastic boundary box fully approved for contaminated land usage.

standard lid, as well as three further lid choices: slope, square cowl and fixed.

With homes increasingly being built on brownfield sites that may contain substances harmful to people, it is vital to provide drinking water in a safe and efficient way and avoid the potential danger of exposure to significant surface waters or ground water pollution.

Boundary boxes are designed to house the meter at the boundary between the water main and the domestic supply and this new Protecta-Line solution not only provides a shield against all known contaminants, but it’s the only ‘Grade B’ load bearing height adjustable boundary box on the market. It is available with a

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The ProtectaLine range is the market leading and original barrier pipe system for the safe transportation of drinking water through areas of contaminated land, or for sites with future potential contamination concerns.

Aliaxis will be showcasing this groundbreaking solution for the first time at Utility Week Live (Stand J16) at the NEC in Birmingham (16th-17th May).

For more information on Aliaxis’ extensive range of water supply solutions, visit: https://bit.ly/ProtectaLine_BoundaryBox Contact T +44 (0)330 111 4233 www.aliaxis.co.uk

Leachate Solutions

L

eachate Solutions is committed to promoting energy efficiency and conservation, with sustainable use of energy, we focus on delivering cost-effective and robust engineering.

Using a modern approach that works across the UK in environments within the Water and Waste Water sector such as closed landfills, old coal mines, gasometer tower drainage, and AD BIO systems.

We also offer eco friendly technical interventions for problematic sites or site processes, delivering full maintenance packages and services, including smart monitoring systems that can provide a comprehensive system overview and advanced warning of any potential issues.

We problem solve and provide solutions for issues that clients may have. Our comprehensive technical skills set provide consultancy, migration, reverse engineering, plus

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an entire sector.

end to end solutions to the industry.

The company also provides a maintenance consultancy service that helps identify and implement cost savings across

Leachate Solutions provides a comprehensive range of services within the Water and Waste Water sectors. We Consult, Supply, Design and Install: t Water Treatment Systems: Including Leachate & Landfill t Pumps and Pumping Equipment t Pump Maintenance and Management t Pump Condition Reports t Non Invasive Flow Meters – Magflow, Ultrasonic and Doppler t Level Control Systems t On-Site Instrument Calibration t Analytical Services T 01772 816593 enquiries@leachatesolutions.com www.leachatesolutions.com

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Water Management

Lanes Group launches the fifth year of Unblocktober initiative promotes taking the Unblocktober promise, which involves pledging to keep potentially harmful waste materials out of one's drains for the whole month.

T

he drainage experts Lanes Group have announced the launch of their fifth Unblocktober campaign.

The campaign is calling on both individuals and businesses to take the Unblocktober pledge. The pledge asks the UK public to improve our drain health and reduce the impact that our waste is having on our climate and environment in the UK. Unblocktober is a revolutionary month-long initiative that began in 2019 and is entirely driven by the British public. It takes place in October and aims to enhance the health of our drains, sewers, watercourses and seas. The

This includes any of the following products: t Cooking oil – pre or post-cooking t Margarine t Butter t Lard t Cooking sauces and condiments t Food – even crumbs t Wet wipes t Face masks t Tampons, applicators and wrappers t Sanitary/menstrual pads and towels t Nappies t Condoms t Cotton buds t Contact lenses t Bandages and plasters t Razor blades

t Dental floss t Rubber gloves We have poured harmful substances down our drains for decades. This has resulted in the formation of fatbergs that are harmful to our drains and to our environment.

These large fatbergs clog our sewers and drains, making them less efficient than they should be.

At a time when we just cannot afford to be causing any more environmental damage, this has had significant ecological effects, and is increasing pollution in our waterways.

Jacob Larkin, spokesperson for Unblocktober, said, “Since our first campaign in 2019, we've seen signups to Unblocktober rise from 4,500 to over 66,000. We are incredibly proud of the efforts of the British public and businesses to tackle the climatic and ecological

impact of poor drain health.

“Now, however, is not the time to rest on our laurels. Unblocktober 2023 gives us the opportunity to build on the key wins of the last five years and continue to improve our drain health. Reducing the environmental impact of issues such as fatbergs and wet wipe usage is a key factor improving the overall health of our waterways. Increased awareness of poor habits during Unblocktober will continue to have a positive impact and give the environment a fighting chance.”

For more information on the campaign and how to get involved, visit: www.unblocktober.org T 0800 526 488 www.lanesfordrains.co.uk

LEGO designer’s appeal: Back me again on fatberg model T

he designer at the centre of a campaign to persuade LEGO to make a new model featuring drainage engineers tackling a fatberg has told Lanes Group plc the Whitechapel fatberg was the main inspiration for his idea.

Wastewater operatives from Lanes, working for water company Thames Water, carried out most of the work to clear the giant fatberg in London’s East End in 2017.

The designer, who goes by the name of MOCingbird, revealed that after reading about the Whitechapel fatberg, which weighed over 130 tonnes, he set about creating a slightly smaller one – out of LEGO bricks.

MOCingbird acknowledges his inspiration for the proposed new LEGO model – and appeals for continued support for his idea – in a question and answer interview given to Lanes, the UK’s largest independent wastewater and drainage specialist.

He also reveals: t Lanes was the first drainage company to write to LEGO supporting the model idea,

helping trigger a similar response from other organisations in the UK and the USA. t The UK drainage industry was instrumental in the fatberg model achieving the 10,000 votes needed for LEGO to consider manufacturing the fatberg model. t The designer said he would be happy if Unblocktober – the campaign first launched by Lanes to protect sewers and seas from misuse and pollution was associated with a final model.

As the model – Sewer Heroes: Fighting the Fatberg – was not one of those selected for production

by LEGO when considered by its panel of experts, MOCingbird is determined to put it forward again.

That will involve reaching the 10,000 vote target yet again, and he reveals he still needs thousands of votes.

Lanes Group Development Director, Richard Leigh, said, “We’re 100% behind this second push to have the model marketed by LEGO. It would be an excellent way to give consumers an insight into the challenges of keeping sewers flowing across the world, and how they can help drainage

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specialists like Lanes achieve that.

“MOCingbird’s creativity has already raised huge awareness about the topic, and the problems caused by sewer misuse. I have no doubt, given the public’s fascination with fatbergs, the model would be a best seller for LEGO if people could buy it. I would urge everyone to vote for Sewer Heroes: Fighting the Fatberg again.”

Follow this link to vote for Sewer Heroes: Fighting the Fatberg: https://ideas.lego.com/projects/ e6d994cf-76c9-4275-86c0-19cbcb90db73 T 0800 526 488 www.lanesfordrains.co.uk

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