January Eco News

New Laws to Make Washing Powder more Eco Friendly

Eco balls - alternatives to washing powder

The EU has introduced new laws to curb the amount of harmful chemicals in washing powders and tablets. All washing powders and detergents, including those for the dishwasher, will have to be virtually phosphorous free from June 2013. Phosphorous in washing powders have a harmful effect in the environment, affecting aquatic life by getting into waterways and seas.

Alternatives to traditional washing powders and detergents have been available for some time. Eco balls are one such product that contains no phosphorous or other chemicals and cleans clothing just as effectively as powders and tablets.

Windpower Reaches Record High in the UK

The UK’s wind power generation has hit a landmark in capacity, says RenewableUK, the trade association representing the UK’s renewable power industry. Wind turbines up and down the country now generate enough power to supply electricity to 3.5 million homes.

In total, the UK has a capacity for over 6 gigawatts of energy and it is hoped as more wind farms are built, more and more people can benefit from this renewable energy source.

Hydrogen Vehicle Evaluation Takes Place

With the many downsides to using electric vehicles, namely the long recharge time and the short range of most electric cars, many experts in eco motoring are looking to hydrogen fuel cells as an eco friendly alternative to petrol for powering the next generation of cars.

Hydrogen fuels cells convert hydrogen energy into electricity. As hydrogen can be filled up just like petrol, it makes it just as practical, but the main benefit is that the only emission produced by hydrogen cars is water.

Now, a groundbreaking has been launched to ensure the UK is well positioned for the commercial rollout of hydrogen vehicles. The new programme – UKH2Mobility – is evaluating the potential for hydrogen as a fuel for Ultra Low Carbon Vehicles in the UK and is developing an action plan for an anticipated roll-out to consumers by 2014/15, ensuring that enough hydrogen refill stations will be present to accommodate these next generation low carbon vehicles.