Greens against blue

GREENS candidate for Wollongong Trevor Jones has called on BlueScope Steel to do more in terms of research into ultra-low carbon steel making.

He said BlueScope Steel's current operations have a limited lifespan and more needs to be done to keep its works viable in the future.

"They need more efficient processes in place to stop emissions," he said.

"Instead of BlueScope Steel adding to global warming it should use part of its record profits to research solutions.

"Wollongong is put forward as a city of innovation, we have great research centres here with Wollongong University and the Alternative Technology Centre.

"We can be at the forefront of this kind of research rather than lagging behind."

He said European researchers are working on ultra-low carbon steel making and urged BlueScope to financially back such research here in the Illawarra.

A BlueScope Steel spokesperson said the company employs about 150 people at its Port Kembla operation in the field of research, in order to make products more durable and energy efficient.

"Additionally, we have supported ongoing research at the University of Wollongong through the BlueScope Steel Metallurgy Centre at $500,000 a year since 1995," the spokesperson said.

"BlueScope Steel recognises that global warming is a serious community concern that requires a global response. We are conscious of the need to do our part in helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

"Steel production is growing rapidly in countries such as China, Brazil and Indonesia, which are not bound by emissions targets under the Kyoto Protocol. It is important to ensure regulation of greenhouse gas emissions includes all major emitters, so that tangible, global cuts in emissions can be achieved.

"Given the role of carbon in steelmaking, new technology will be vital in helping meet the greenhouse and energy challenge. That's why BlueScope Steel is participating in the Asia - Pacific Partnership on Clean Development and Climate ('AP6') and the International Iron & Steel Institute's CO2 Breakthrough Project. These programs are aimed at developing new technologies to reduce carbon dioxide emissions."

Mr Jones also lashed out at the state Labor Government over what he says is a deal between BlueScope Steel Port Kembla and the government exempting BlueScope from carbon tax requirements for the next 25 years.

"This shows a complete abandonment of our planet's future and consigns our children to a quality of life ravaged by global warming and rising sea levels," he said.

He said to revisit the issue of global warming in 25 years time is not good enough.

"They have got to start working now."

Current Member for Wollongong Noreen Hay hit back at Mr Jones criticism of the NSW government calling the deal struck by the government and BlueScope as a "win for all".

Information released last year says the agreement between the two parties allowed BlueScope to commence work on plans to slash greenhouse gas emissions by recycling the waste gases from steelmaking in the Illawarra for use in electricity production.

Premier Morris Iemma said the agreement paved the way for BlueScope to commence feasibility work on a proposed co-generation electricity plant.

BlueScope Steel CEO Kirby Adams said the plant will take by-product gases that would otherwise be flared and use them to generate electricity that can be put back into the grid.

Mr Iemma said it is estimated the co-generation plant would save about 800 000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions from entering the atmosphere every year.

"That's the equivalent of 185 000 cars off the road," he said.