Ceramic technology can cut both fuel costs and carbon emissions from Australia’s commercial vehicle fleet by around 20 per cent, a Murdoch University study finds.
The technology, called Mtech Fuel Saver, is centred on a ceramic powder housed in a cylinder, which breaks fuel droplets into smaller molecules.
The result is more efficient combustion with lower fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
On a national scale, Associate Professor Dr Peter Dingle’s report says the Mtech Fuel Saver could reduce Australia’s emissions by the equivalent of 25 million tonnes of carbon dioxide per year.
“Widespread installation of the Mtech Fuel Saver would benefit Australians’ health, environment and economy,” the report says.
“Mtech Fuel Saver reduces toxic emissions, reduces total greenhouse gas contribution and fuel consumption, possibly saving Australians hundreds of dollars worth of petrol.”
Record fuel costs are set to rise further when an Emissions Trading Scheme begins in 2010, according to a report released before Easter by the Australian government’s top climate change adviser, Ross Garnaut.
The 2010 deadline for emission caps and a carbon trading scheme in Australia was announced only last month and has amplified industry concerns regarding environmental targets.
A crowd of 10,000 commercial visitors is expected to flock to the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre over three days from 29 April to see technologies like the Mtech Fuel Saver at the inaugural Australian Carbon Trading Expo and the co-located Safety In Action trade show.
Although big business had already been implementing environmentally-friendly practices ahead of the government’s announcement, Mtech Australia CEO David Bignold says the 2010 deadline was a real incentive for change.
“Major corporations have been quick to recognise the benefits of technology like Mtech Fuel Saver that will reduce carbon emissions because they’ve learned from the European experience with carbon caps and don’t want to be caught unprepared,” Bignold says.
“There’s a perception that cutting your emissions is costly but many are very pleasantly surprised to discover that what’s good for the environment can be good for the bottom line too.”
“It’s not all smoke and mirrors — our technology is already saving fleet owners thousands of dollars a week and those savings are only going to grow when you factor in carbon trading.”
“My advice is to do your research,” Bignold warns.
“Uncover the alternatives at the Australian Carbon Trading Expo and find the right matches for your business.”
“Yes, you’ll need to adapt but it might just save you a fortune.”
Mtech Australia is a sponsor of the Australian Carbon Trading Expo 2008, which will run from April 29 to May 1 2008 at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre.
It is running concurrently with the Safety In Action trade show.
For more information, phone Australian Exhibitions & Conferences Pty Ltd on 03 9654 7773, email actexpo@aec.net.au or visit www.actexpo.com.au
Access Dr Peter Dingle’s report