Environment becomes the winner

Newey’s Dry Cleaners has received a $48,840 grand under the State Government’s ecoBiz program.  EcoBiz is the Environmental Prote ction Agency’s signature partnership program with Queensland businesses.

GreenEarth affiliate, Bill Hudson, said the grand money would go towards the installation of two dry-cleaning machines that eliminated hazardous waste output.

"The machines use a harmless silicone-based solution instead of the widely used chemical perchloroethylene,” he said.

"The new product called Green Earth is environmentally friendly, has no hazardous waste and is biodegradable.

“My business specializes in cleaning quality garments and by using Green Earth I will be able to eliminate problems such as ornamental beads melting.

“Green Earth is a lot less aggressive and leaves fabrics softer because the silicone in it ‘lubricates’ the fabric.”

Mr Hudson said he was attempting to put in place the world’s best practice in terms of environmental management.

The new dry-cleaning machines are more energy efficient and are expected to save 140,000mJ a year.

Fast facts

• Businesses can register for ecoGiz on www.epa.qld.gov.au or call 3225 1999 for a CD
• Rebates are available to businesses that demonstrate the benefits of conserving, reusing and recycling resources, energy and water
• Rebate assistance for projects ranges from $1000 to a maximum of $150,000
• The ecoBiz program was launched in June 2004 and will make an investment in Queensland business of $6 million over three years