6 minute read
HOME
ENVIRONMENTALLY sound carpet Kiwi wool researchers develop compostable rug under $4.9m sustainability initiative
The development of a prototype rug which contains no plastic materials brings New Zealand’s wool export industry closer to mass production of fully compostable carpets, according to local experts.
Latest Government statistics show textiles, including all forms of carpet, make up around five per cent of New Zealand landfill volumes with over 186,000 tonnes entering the waste stream each year.
Dr Kirstine Hulse, sustainability lead at Bremworth, says while wool is a natural fibre which can break down due to its organic composition, most wool carpets use a polypropylene backing and latex which contain synthetic materials— preventing the product from being composted.
The new rug, which is hand woven from natural materials including sheep wool and alpaca fibres, was created as part of a rapid prototyping research initiative, designed to test a number of sustainability concepts in textile design.
Crossbred sheep and alpaca fibres were used in the first prototyping process to provide a in the first prototyping process to provide a broader range of colours but more trials are underway to find alternatives to the use of alpaca yarnwhich is in limited supply in New Zealand.
Greg Smith, Bremworth CEO, says the development of fully compostable carpet that can be mass-produced in a financially viable way would be transformational.
He says the three-year research initiative was launched in response to demand from consumers for an environmentally sound, endof-life solution for carpet.
“While design and quality remain key drivers for most segments, what happens at the end of a product’s useful life is becoming an increasingly important factor in the purchase decision.
“Our latest research initiative is designed to help us build a product range which can be meaningfully reused or naturally returned to the earth in a way that resonates with our customer basewithout compromising the design and performance that they care about,” he says.
Make the most of it.
Get monthly returns from 5.50% p.a.* that make the most of your savings, so you can make the most out of life.
Sometimes it can be hard to balance the need to save for your future, as well as enjoying the adventures that pop up every day. Our unique investment model offers you the flexibility to do both. At Southern Cross Partners, we offer mortgage secured loans that allow investors to pick and choose their level of involvement. With current returns from 5.50% p.a.* paid out monthly. Talk to us today about a new, flexible way to invest, minimum investment $10,000.00.^
To find out more, visit us online at southerncrosspartners.co.nz
* Investment rate subject to change. ^Subject to availability. Southern
Cross Partners Ltd is licensed to provide peer-to-peer lending services under the Financial Markets Conduct Act 2013.
NOBODY REALLY KNOWS! DOES ANYBODY CARE?
BILL POTTER – Maverick Thinker. Global Speaker. Personal Power Coach. Bill has made personal presentations in 53 countries. Here is a summary of a keynote to 7,600 in Hong Kong https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ToRhF22nARM
I created this model too many years ago, in response to the ongoing reluctance by ‘people in power’, to cease their ‘double-speak’ about everything, and just for once, try honesty! It has deteriorated to the point, where you know they are ‘lying’... because their lips are moving!
My Model is so simple, it’s embarrassing. Part 1 is called WHAT? You must describe ‘what’ we are talking about or will talk about. Explain its significance to the ‘greater scheme of things’ and reveal what genuine value it adds, to ‘the greater good’ for the most people.
Part 2 is called WHY? Now that we know ‘what’ the heck we are all talking about, tell us ‘why’ we have chosen this path, this project or this way of ‘doing things’. Tell us the reason(s) for the decisions, the key purpose for choosing it, and the honest, tested and proven outcome(s).
Part 3 is called WHO? Despite the enormous progress of all that can make for a ‘better world’, the persistent levels of incompetence, grows exponentially! This is a gross disrespect to the genuine people, dedicated to building a better future, who’s best efforts get thwarted by idiots!
Part 4 is called WHEN? Consistently we hear the phrase, ‘this should have been attended to, a long time ago’. The sad fact is, that for too many so-called ‘leaders’, they would not recognise the reality of Logic or Commonsense, if these ran up their trouser leg, and bit them on the bum!
Part 5 is called HOW? Here it becomes scary! Despite the efforts of many talented, motivated and dedicated people, seeking fairness and consideration for all, the combo of unrelenting ‘ideology’ and the resulting determined dictatorships, will forever be omnipresent. Be alert! OK.
My LeaderSpeak© Course, is just for achievers, who want to inspire and lead others. I am a lifelong ‘Maverick’, so I do things ‘differently’. If you really believe in yourself and want BETTER, contact me. Much goodness is coming. All we need is COURAGE! What say you? Cheers. Bill.
duitdammit@gmail.com
available now
In celebration of Howick’s 175th Anniversary, Times Media has published a compilation of stories from Howick Historian Alan La Roche, mbe, documenting the history of our region. OWAIROA < HOWICK
A compilation of stories documenting the history of Howick and districts from Howick Historian Alan La Roche, mbe, celebrating the region’s 175th anniversary , celebrating the region’s 175th anniversary RRP $39.95 AVAILABLE FROM Times Media, 10 Central Tce, Howick and online at www.times.co.nz Also available from Poppies Books Howick, Paper Plus Howick and the Howick Historical Village
WHAT’S UP WITH ANGELA DO’S AND DON’TS OF PLASTER HOMES
We’ve all heard of ‘plaster homes’, but what exactly does it mean? How should you approach purchasing a home where it has a component of, or is completely plaster? Well-known local Real Estate agent, ANGELA RUDLING, shares her top tips.
You may ask “Is every plaster home a leaky home?” as this is a common belief. Interestingly over the last 70 years, many types of plaster have been used – some have stood the test of time, while others become problematic.
I strongly recommend a professional building inspection report which will identify anything of concern and if there are issues, allow you time to reach out for further advice on your buying or selling decision.
It is a relatively small price to pay to fully understand the facts about a property and as real estate laws now demand total disclosure, a building report prior to selling or purchasing may enable you to rectify small or large issues prior to engaging in the process fully.
Potentially affected homes are likely to have been built between late 1980’s and the mid 2000’s and unfortunately, most internal problems are undetectable to the untrained eye.
Commonly in leaky buildings, moisture gets between the exterior cladding of the house and inner walls. With poor ventilation and no way for moisture to drain away, water becomes trapped between the cladding and framework. Over time, walls can potentially rot, and fungus can grow, causing structural problems and serious health risks to occupants.
Typically, Mediterranean-style houses built with a flat roof, no eaves, and monolithic cladding systems, are most at risk.
However, every property is unique and not all types of plaster are problematic. Cavity plaster systems or lightweight concrete alternatives are extensively used in the construction of all kinds today very successfully.
For assistance regarding buying or selling any style of home, including plaster, either recently constructed or possibly problematic, Angela and/or members of her wellestablished team welcomes your call and can meet discreetly to provide you with initial advice.
If a sale could be on your horizon, Angela would love to chat to you.
