Australia's CPRS now delayed

The Australian Federal Government's Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS) was changed yesterday in response to pressure from businesses affected by the recession. It will now be delayed by one year to be phased in from July 2011. Other changes included: improved compensation for heavy polluters and trade-exposed industries; the price of carbon will now be fixed at $10, reduced from $20; and the rate of greenhouse gas reduction required will be 25% of 2000 levels by 2020, if the world agrees.

Curtin sustainability institute to lead debate

Curtin University of Technology has opened its multimillion-dollar Australian Sustainable Development Institute (ASDI), which combines the resources and brain power of 16 research centres.

Funding for water conservation projects announced

The Minister for Water, Tim Holding, has announced $5 million in funding for 21 water conservation projects across Victoria through Round 6 of the Smart Water Fund.

Green car innovation fund open for applications

The $1.3 billion Green Car Innovation Fund is now open for applications.

Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme 'flawed'

Caltex supports an emissions trading scheme but says proposed CPRS is flawed.

$16.4 million for climate change projects

$16.4 million in funding has been provided to 19 companies to pursue green projects that will combat climate change and support 189 high-wage, high-skill Australian jobs.

Researchers in Business scheme in action

A West Australian renewable energy company has become the first organisation to benefit from the Australian government's $10 million Researchers in Business program.

Partnership to promote the sustainable use of the world's freshwater resources

CSIRO has joined a global network of private and public sector organisations which aims to promote the sustainable, fair and efficient use of the world’s freshwater resources.

Premier's Sustainability Awards winners announced

The Victorian government has recognised local businesses and groups for their work in promoting sustainability through the Premier’s Sustainability Awards.

National Waste Policy Consultation paper released

Environment Minister Peter Garrett has released a consultation paper — A National Waste Policy: Managing Waste to 2020 for public review and comment.

Construction industry receives funding boost

A multipurpose enviro-friendly insulation batt made from recycled materials is among four ideas in the construction industry to each receive $64,000 in Australian government assistance to bring them to market.

Institute to develop CCS lauched

Prime Minister Kevin Rudd formally launched the Global Carbon Capture and Storage Institute (GCCSI) at the inaugural meeting of institute foundation members in Canberra on 16 April 2009. The government announced the institute back in September 2008 with annual funding of up to $100 million to accelerate the deployment of commercial-scale CCS projects globally.

Environmental simulation software wins double award

Simulation software that enables Australian organisations to manage water and carbon resources more efficiently has won a double prize in South Australia's iAwards competition.

Call for the environmentally responsible

In a time of global environmental concern, the City of Melbourne is calling for nominations of individuals, corporations and community groups addressing this critical issue.

HOLd