Sugar cane is a most environmentally friendly crop. The industry is based on a renewable source of natural
energy and food - sugar cane. There are practically no waste materials from the sugar industry. The fibre
(bagasse) from the cane is used to fire the mills' boilers, providing self-sufficiency in energy. Thus, the
industry is a "closed loop" from an environmental point of view. Another by-product, molasses, is sold to
farmers as a valuable feed supplement for dairy and beef cattle, it is also used as a feedstock for
fermentation industries.
The New South Wales sugar industry is conscious of the need to preserve the environment and to protect
and maintain the land which provides the basic raw material - sugar cane. The mills and refinery
are constantly reviewing their environmental control systems. The industry is energetic in ensuring
that the nation's most important resource, prime agricultural land, is preseved for the benefit of present
and future generations.
THE CARBON DIOXIDE CYCLE
Each hectare of sugar cane absorbs approximately 60 tonnes of CO2 per year from the atmosphere. The carbon
dioxide balance takes into account the following:
 | It is found that the sum of inputs is |
RIVERCARE 2000 GOLD AWARD
Acid sulfate soils (ASS) occur widely as a sedimentary layer in the coastal floodplains on the East Coast.
When exposed to air, the soils can release acid water into drains and rivers.
Our pro-active response to the problem of ASS was an intensive effort to sample the soil deep under every
cane farm in the State. Where an ASS potential risk was identified, management plans were
prepared and implemented.
Neutralisation and sealing off these soils has improved the quality of water in streams and rivers.
The project won the 1998 RiverCare 2000 Gold Award for Primary Industry sponsored by the
New South Wales Government.
"GREEN POWER"
The three New South Wales sugar mills generate electricity for their operations from a renewable
fuel source - sugarcane bagasse. Surplus electricity is exported to the state grid and sold as "Green Power".
Consumers can choose to purchase "Green Power" with an assurance that it is generated from renewable
fuel sources.
Two major renewable energy generators have been constructed at Condong and Broadwater mills.
These two generators supply the total electricity needs of the towns of Lismore, Casino, Ballina,
Byron Bay and Murwillumbah - all from accredited renewable fuel sources.