The Great Australian Poly Tank Debate - can UV degraded tanks be recycled?

IF YOU ARE NEW TO THIS WEBLOG

2009-08-23T22:46:00.001-07:00

My investigations began back in August 2008 with Leisa Donlan CEO of ARMA (Association of Rotomoulders Australia) at the first post 'The journey begins'. Posts in small type headings carry all emails relating to that particular manufacturer/supplier. Posts in capital headings focus on specific aspects The weblog is being added to, improved upon and evolving continually. It will form an evidence database together with a national platform for discussion and debate.

Don Matthews

Mitre 10 Brendan Danaher VIC

2009-08-19T22:52:00.000-07:00

Mitre 10
Brendan Danaher VIC
Retailer
----------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tosabrend@sympac.com.au
dateThu, Aug 20, 2009 at 3:03 PMsubjectRecycling poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Mitre 10 Brendan Danaher,

I believe you sell Teampoly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help,
Don Matthews
-----------------------------------------------------
No response
-----------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tosabrend@sympac.com.au
dateTue, Aug 25, 2009 at 1:46 PMsubjectRe: Recycling poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Do you have any word from Teampoly on the recyclability of UV degraded tanks?

Don Matthews
-----------------------------------------------------
No response
-----------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tosabrend@sympac.com.au
dateTue, Sep 1, 2009 at 4:45 PMsubjectRe: Recycling poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Have you received any information back from Teampoly as to whether their tanks can be recycled when degraded by sunlight at the end of their life?

Thanks
Don Matthews
----------------------------------------------------
No response
----------------------------------------------------

Mitre 10 Blairgowie VIC

2009-08-19T22:39:00.001-07:00

Mitre 10
Blairgowrie VIC
Retailer
---------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews toenquiries@sorrentohardware.com dateThu, Aug 20, 2009 at 3:01 PM subjectRecycling poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Mitre 10 Blairgowie,

I believe you sell Teampoly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help,
Don Matthews
-----------------------------------------------------------f
romSorrento Timber & Hardware <enquiries@sorrentohardware.com>toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>dateTue, Aug 25, 2009 at 11:10 AMsubjectRE: Recycling poly tank

Hello Don,

I called Teampoly Water Tanks on your behalf and asked them about recycling of the tanks. They advised unless they get broken down, the tanks are recyclable. Otherwise they will last a very, very long time. If you wanted to look at their website it is http://www.teampoly.com.au/ . Don’t hesitate to contact us if you require a quote on a water tank you are interested in.

Kind regards,
Jo
Administration
-----------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toSorrento Timber & Hardware <enquiries@sorrentohardware.com>dateTue, Sep 1, 2009 at 4:36 PMsubjectRe: Recycling poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Hello Jo,

Thanks for the information from Teampoly. From their advice it sounds like they can't be recycled once they are broken down by sunlight, however they will last a very long time as you say.

Thanks once again for your help

Don Matthews

Mitre 10 Benalla VIC

2009-08-19T22:36:00.000-07:00

Mitre 10
Benalla VIC
Retailer
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews donmatthews7@gmail.com>towally@benalla.mitre10.com.au
dateThu, Aug 20, 2009 at 3:00 PMsubjectRecycling poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Mitre 10 Benalla,

I believe you sell Teampoly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help,
Don Matthews
------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews donmatthews7@gmail.com>towally@benalla.mitre10.com.au
dateTue, Aug 25, 2009 at 1:47 PMsubjectRe: Recycling poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Do you have any word from Teampoly on the recyclability of UV degraded tanks?
Don Matthews
------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews donmatthews7@gmail.com>towally@benalla.mitre10.com.au
dateTue, Sep 1, 2009 at 4:55 PMsubjectRe: Recycling poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Do you have any word back from Teampoly as to whether their tanks can be recycled when degraded by sunlight at the end of their life?

Thanks
Don Matthews

Mitre 10 Bayswater VIC

2009-08-19T22:34:00.000-07:00

Mitre 10
Bayswater VIC
Retailer
----------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tomick@bayswatertimber.com.au
dateThu, Aug 20, 2009 at 2:59 PMsubjectRecycling poly rainwater tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Mitre 10 Bayswater,

I believe you sell Teampoly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help,
Don Matthews
-------------------------------------------------------
frommick <mick@bayswatertimber.com.au>toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
dateSat, Aug 22, 2009 at 7:51 AMsubjectRE: Recycling poly rainwater tank

Hi Don,

Thanks for the inquiry, I have spoken to one of my tank suppliers (Melbourne Roto moulders) and he said that they have tested tanks in full sun in Queensland and after 18 years the tank has only slight surface degradation with an estimated life of 35+ years.He also said he can organize as a service to take tanks back to recycle.I hope this information is of some help to you, if you tell me what size you are after I can email you a quote.

Regards
Michael Vanderkolk
Bayswater Mitre10

Mitre 120 Kingscote SA

2009-06-22T23:20:00.000-07:00

Mitre 10
Kingscote SA (Linden Lea)
Retailer
--------------------------------------------------------
On Fri, Jun 12, 2009 at 10:49 AM, Don Matthews donmatthews7@gmail.com> wrote:

Dear Mitre 10 Linden Lea,

I believe you sell Teampoly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help,
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------------------
No response
-------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews donmatthews7@gmail.com>tolindenlea@bigpond.com
dateWed, Jun 17, 2009 at 11:38 AMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Would you please acknowledge and respond to my email.

Thankyou,
Don Matthews
-------------------------------------------------------
No response
-------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews donmatthews7@gmail.com>tolindenlea@bigpond.com
dateMon, Jun 22, 2009 at 5:23 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Could you please contact Teampoly and ask what they advise you tell a customer like me asking if their tanks can be recycled when UV- degraded by sunlight at the end of their life. Please forward their response on to me at donmatthews7@gmail.com

Thanking you in anticipation
Don Matthews
Concerned Individual
-----------------------------------------------------------
No response
-----------------------------------------------------------

Complete Tanks and Pumps (SA)

2009-06-17T23:09:00.000-07:00

Complete tanks and pumps
Supplier
Salisbury SA
----------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>towatertanks1000@bigpond.com
dateThu, Jun 11, 2009 at 5:27 PMsubjectRecycling of UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Complete Tanks and Pumps,

I notice you sell Total Poly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.
I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
------------------------------------------------------------
fromwatertanks1000@bigpond.comtoDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
dateTue, Jun 16, 2009 at 12:48 PMsubjectRe: Recycling of UV degraded poly tankmailed-bybigpond.com

Hi Don,

Recycling of your old tank at the end of it useful life should not be a problem. A poly tank will have many years of trouble free life. tHey come with a 10 year manufacturer guarantee and are designed to meet Australian standards.

You would need to contact your local council to find out where you can take your tank when are done with it.
Cheers

--Complete Tanks and Pumps175 Salisbury HwySalisbury SA 5108ph 8281 2266 fax 8281 2299watertanks1000@bigpond.com
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Mitre 10 Glenunga SA

2009-06-11T18:43:00.001-07:00

Mitre 10 (Barrow and Bench)
Glenunga SA
Retailer
--------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toglenunga@barrowandbench.com
dateFri, Jun 12, 2009 at 11:12 AMsubjectRecycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Mitre 10 Glenunga ,

I believe you sell Teampoly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help,
Don Matthews
-------------------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews
<donmatthews7@gmail.com>toglenunga@barrowandbench.com
dateWed, Jun 17, 2009 at 11:41 AMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Would you please acknowledge and respond to my email.

Thankyou,
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------------------
fromOffice Glenunga Mitre10 <glenunga@barrowandbench.com>toDon Matthews <Wed">donmatthews7@gmail.com>Wed, Jun 17, 2009 at 2:36 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tank

Good Afternoon Don,

We have forwarded the email onto Teampoly and are waiting for there reply but it would be easier for you to contact them direct.

Thankyou

Elleanor
---------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toOffice Glenunga Mitre10 <glenunga@barrowandbench.com>
dateThu, Jun 18, 2009 at 3:33 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Hi Elleanor,

I will await your reply from Teampoly which you should have received back by now, yes? Could you forward it to me? If they haven't replied to you could you chase them up ?
Thanks
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------------------------
fromOffice Glenunga Mitre10 <glenunga@barrowandbench.com>toDon Matthews <Fri">donmatthews7@gmail.com>Fri, Jun 19, 2009 at 2:22 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tank

Hi Don

We are advised you must contact Teampoly direct for this information as they have all the approiate information. We are only able to assist with the sales.
-------------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toOffice Glenunga Mitre10 <glenunga@barrowandbench.com>
dateMon, Jun 22, 2009 at 5:05 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Hello again Elleanor,

I'm puzzled why Teampoly say (which you seem to go along with) that it is me the customer who has to contact them. The responsibility of providing advice and answering questions on products is clearly the responsibilty of the retailer is it not?

To say "we are only able to assist with the sales" tells me Mitre 10 Glenunga have no interest or concern in any potential environmental problem Teampoly tanks might cause produce further down the track and that all Mitre 10 Glenunga are interested in is sales and the dollar. This is not a very responsible attitude to be taking.

Please ask Teampoly what they advise you tell customers about the recyclability of their tanks when degraded by UV at the end of their life and forward their response on to me at donmatthews7@gmail.com

Thanking you in anticipation

Don Matthews
Concerned Individual
----------------------------------------------------------
Police have banned further questioning to the South Australian Mitre 10 chain (S/C Jepps Sturt Police). Why? Are people beginning to feel uncomfortable with my investigations?

Mitre 10 Barossa SA

2009-06-11T18:40:00.001-07:00

Mitre 10
Barossa SA
Retailer
----------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tocraig.dodman@communitystore.com.au
dateFri, Jun 12, 2009 at 11:10 AMsubjectRecycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Mitre 10 Barossa ,

I believe you sell Teampoly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help,
Don Matthews
---------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com> tocraig.dodman@communitystore.com.au Wed, Jun 17, 2009 at 11:41 AMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Would you please acknowledge and respond to my email.
Thankyou,
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com> tocraig.dodman@communitystore.com.auTue, Jun 23, 2009 at 3:32 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Could you please contact Teampoly and ask what they advise you tell a customer like me asking if their tanks can be recycled when UV- degraded by sunlight at the end of their life. Please forward their response on to me at donmatthews7@gmail.com

Thanking you in anticipation
Don Matthews
Concerned Individual
------------------------------------------------------
Police have banned further questioning to the South Australian Mitre 10 chain (S/C Jepps Sturt Police). Why? Are people beginning to feel uncomfortable with my investigations?

Mitre 10 Barmera SA

2009-06-11T18:37:00.000-07:00

Mitre 10
Barmera SA
Retailer
----------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews donmatthews7@gmail.com>totrishws@smithgroupmitre10.com.au
dateFri, Jun 12, 2009 at 11:07 AMsubjectRecycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Mitre 10 Barmera ,

I believe you sell Teampoly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help,
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews donmatthews7@gmail.com>totrishws@smithgroupmitre10.com.au
dateWed, Jun 17, 2009 at 11:40 AMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Would you please acknowledge and respond to my email.

Thankyou,
Don Matthews
-------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews donmatthews7@gmail.com>totrishws@smithgroupmitre10.com.au
dateMon, Jun 22, 2009 at 5:25 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Could you please contact Teampoly and ask what they advise you tell a customer like me asking if their tanks can be recycled when UV- degraded by sunlight at the end of their life. Please forward their response on to me at donmatthews7@gmail.com

Thanking you in anticipation
Don Matthews
Concerned Individual
-------------------------------------------------------
Police have banned further questioning to the South Australian Mitre 10 chain Why? Are people beginning to feel uncomfortable with my investigations?

Mitre 10 Naracoorte SA

2009-06-11T18:31:00.000-07:00

Mitre 10 (Wennerbom and Hoole)
Naracoorte SA
Retailer
-------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>towenn@bigpond.net.au
dateFri, Jun 12, 2009 at 11:01 AMsubjectRecycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Mitre 10 Naracoorte,

I believe you sell Teampoly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help,
Don Matthews
-------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>towenn@bigpond.net.au
dateWed, Jun 17, 2009 at 11:40 AMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com
hide details Jun 17 (6 days ago) Reply

Would you please acknowledge and respond to my email.

Thankyou,
Don Matthews
----------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>towenn@bigpond.net.au
dateMon, Jun 22, 2009 at 5:25 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Could you please contact Teampoly and ask what they advise you tell a customer like me asking if their tanks can be recycled when UV- degraded by sunlight at the end of their life. Please forward their response on to me at donmatthews7@gmail.com

Thanking you in anticipation
Don Matthews
Concerned Individual
--------------------------------------------------------
Police have banned further questioning to the South Australian Mitre 10 chain (S/C Jepps Sturt Police). Why? Are people beginning to feel uncomfortable with my investigations?

Mitre 10 Virginia SA

2009-06-11T18:28:00.000-07:00

Mitre 10
Virginia SA
Retailer
---------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tovirginiamitre10@bigpond.com
dateFri, Jun 12, 2009 at 10:58 AMsubjectRecycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Mitre 10 Virginia,

I believe you sell Teampoly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help,
Don Matthews
------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tovirginiamitre10@bigpond.com
dateWed, Jun 17, 2009 at 11:39 AMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com
hide details Jun 17 (6 days ago) Reply

Would you please acknowledge and respond to my email.

Thankyou,
Don Matthews
-----------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tovirginiamitre10@bigpond.com
dateMon, Jun 22, 2009 at 5:25 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Could you please contact Teampoly and ask what they advise you tell a customer like me asking if their tanks can be recycled when UV- degraded by sunlight at the end of their life. Please forward their response on to me at donmatthews7@gmail.com

Thanking you in anticipation
Don Matthews
Concerned Individual
--------------------------------------------------------
Police have banned further questioning to the South Australian Mitre 10 chain (S/C Jepps Sturt Police). Why? Are people beginning to feel uncomfortable with my investigations?

Mitre 10 Salisbury SA

2009-06-11T18:24:00.000-07:00

Mitre 10 (Timco Timberland)
Salisbury SA
Retailer
-------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toben@timcotimberland.com.au
dateFri, Jun 12, 2009 at 10:55 AMsubjectRecycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Mitre 10 Salisbury,

I believe you sell Teampoly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help,
Don Matthews
-----------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toben@timcotimberland.com.au
dateWed, Jun 17, 2009 at 11:39 AMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Would you please acknowledge and respond to my email.

Thankyou,
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toben@timcotimberland.com.au
dateMon, Jun 22, 2009 at 5:24 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Could you please contact Teampoly and ask what they advise you tell a customer like me asking if their tanks can be recycled when UV- degraded by sunlight at the end of their life. Please forward their response on to me at donmatthews7@gmail.com

Thanking you in anticipation
Don Matthews
Concerned Individual
----------------------------------------------------
Police have banned further questioning to the South Australian Mitre 10 chain (S/C Jepps Sturt Police). Why? Are people beginning to feel uncomfortable with my investigations?

Mitre 10 Normanville SA

2009-06-11T18:23:00.001-07:00

Mitre 10
Normanville SA
Retailer
-------------------------------------------------------
Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tospil@ozemail.com.au
dateFri, Jun 12, 2009 at 10:53 AMsubjectRecycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Mitre 10 Normanville,

I believe you sell Teampoly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help,
Don Matthews
---------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tospil@ozemail.com.au
dateWed, Jun 17, 2009 at 11:39 AMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Would you please acknowledge and respond to my email.

Thankyou,
Don Matthews
---------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tospil@ozemail.com.au
dateMon, Jun 22, 2009 at 5:24 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Could you please contact Teampoly and ask what they advise you tell a customer like me asking if their tanks can be recycled when UV- degraded by sunlight at the end of their life. Please forward their response on to me at donmatthews7@gmail.com

Thanking you in anticipation
Don Matthews
Concerned Individual
-------------------------------------------------------
Police have banned further questioning to the South Australian Mitre 10 chain (S/C Jepps Sturt Police). Why? Are people beginning to feel uncomfortable with my investigations?

2009-06-11T18:20:00.000-07:00

Mitre 10 (Manns)
Port Adelaide SA
Retailer
---------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tojarrod@mannsmitre10.com.au
dateFri, Jun 12, 2009 at 10:50 AMsubjectRecycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Manns Mitre 10,

I believe you sell Teampoly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help,
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tojarrod@mannsmitre10.com.au
dateWed, Jun 17, 2009 at 11:38 AMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com
hide details Jun 17 (6 days ago) Reply

Would you please acknowledge and respond to my email.

Thankyou,
Don Matthews
------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tojarrod@mannsmitre10.com.au
dateMon, Jun 22, 2009 at 5:24 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Could you please contact Teampoly and ask what they advise you tell a customer like me asking if their tanks can be recycled when UV- degraded by sunlight at the end of their life. Please forward their response on to me at donmatthews7@gmail.com

Thanking you in anticipation
Don Matthews
Concerned Individual
-------------------------------------------------------
Police have banned further questioning to the South Australian Mitre 10 chain (S/C Jepps Sturt Police). Why? Are people beginning to feel uncomfortable with my investigations?

Mitre 10 Findon SA

2009-06-11T18:15:00.000-07:00

Mitre 10
Findon SA
Retailer
--------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tomichael@findonmitre10.com.au
dateFri, Jun 12, 2009 at 10:45 AMsubjectRecycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Mitre 10 Findon,

I believe you sell Teampoly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
-------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tomichael@findonmitre10.com.au
dateWed, Jun 17, 2009 at 11:37 AMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Would you please acknowledge and respond to my email.

Thankyou,
Don Matthews
---------------------------------------------------------

Reply Don Matthews to michael show details 5:23 PM (22 hours ago) Reply
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tomichael@findonmitre10.com.au
dateMon, Jun 22, 2009 at 5:23 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Could you please contact Teampoly and ask what they advise you tell a customer like me asking if their tanks can be recycled when UV- degraded by sunlight at the end of their life. Please forward their response on to me at donmatthews7@gmail.com

Thanking you in anticipation
Don Matthews
Concerned Individual
---------------------------------------------------------
Police have banned further questioning to the South Australian Mitre 10 chain (S/C Jepps Sturt Police). Why? Are people beginning to feel uncomfortable with my investigations?

Mitre 10 Balhannah SA

2009-06-11T18:12:00.000-07:00

Mitre 10
Balhannah
Retailer
----------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tokit@balcoop.com.au
dateFri, Jun 12, 2009 at 10:42 AMsubjectRecycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Mitre 10 Balhannah,

I believe you sell Teampoly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
----------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tokit@balcoop.com.au
dateWed, Jun 17, 2009 at 11:37 AMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com
hide details Jun 17 (6 days ago) Reply

Would you please acknowledge and respond to my email.

Thankyou,
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tokit@balcoop.com.au
dateMon, Jun 22, 2009 at 5:23 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Could you please contact Teampoly and ask what they advise you tell a customer like me asking if their tanks can be recycled when UV- degraded by sunlight at the end of their life. Please forward their response on to me at donmatthews7@gmail.com

Thanking you in anticipation
Don Matthews
Concerned Individual
-------------------------------------------------------
Police have banned further questioning to the South Australian Mitre 10 chain (S/C Jepps Sturt Police). Why? Are people beginning to feel uncomfortable with my investigations?

Mitre 10 Monbulk VIC

2009-06-11T17:59:00.000-07:00

Mitre 10 (Murphys Mitre 10)
Monbulk VIC
--------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>topaulm@murphysmitre10.com
dateFri, Jun 12, 2009 at 10:29 AMsubjectRecycling of UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Paul

I notice you sell Total Poly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
-------------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>topaulm@murphysmitre10.com
dateWed, Jun 17, 2009 at 11:36 AMsubjectRe: Recycling of UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Please acknowledge and respond to my email.

Thankyou,
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>topaulm@murphysmitre10.com
dateMon, Jun 22, 2009 at 5:22 PMsubjectRe: Recycling of UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Could you please contact Total Poly and ask what they advise you tell a customer like me asking if their tanks can be recycled when UV- degraded by sunlight at the end of their life. Please forward their response on to me at donmatthews7@gmail.com

Thanking you in anticipation
Don Matthews
Concerned Individual
----------------------------------------------------
No response

Mitre 10 Happy Valley SA

2009-06-11T17:37:00.000-07:00

Mitre 10 (Barrow and Bench)
Happy Valley SA
Retailer
---------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tohappyvalley@barrowandbench.com
dateThu, Jun 11, 2009 at 5:31 PMsubjectRecycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Mitre 10 Happy Valley

I notice you sell Total Poly plastic rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
-------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tohappyvalley@barrowandbench.com
dateWed, Jun 17, 2009 at 11:36 AMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Please acknowledge and respond to my email.

Thankyou,
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com> tohappyvalley@barrowandbench.com Mon, Jun 22, 2009 at 5:21 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Could you please contact Teampoly and ask what they advise you tell a customer like me asking if their tanks can be recycled when UV- degraded by sunlight at the end of their life. Please forward their response on to me at donmatthews7@gmail.com

Thanking you in anticipation
Don Matthews
Concerned Individual
-----------------------------------------------------
Police have banned further questioning to the South Australian Mitre 10 chain (S/C Jepps Sturt Police). Why? Are people beginning to feel uncomfortable with my investigations?

Total Poly VIC

2009-05-24T21:09:00.000-07:00

Total Poly
Manufacturer
? Vic
----------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tolisa@totalpoly.com.au
dateMon, May 25, 2009 at 1:37 PM subjectRecycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Lisa,

I notice you manufacture rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------------------

Roofing Options VIC

2009-05-12T20:52:00.000-07:00

Supplier/installer
Coburg Vic
---------------------------------------------------------
Dear Glen,

I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if they can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life. Could you please advise if your poly tanks can be recycled when degraded by sunlight at the end of their life.

Thanks for your help,
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------------------

M2RAINTANKS REFUSING TO RESPOND

2009-04-26T23:51:00.000-07:00

m2raintanks refusing to respond to questions on recycling poly tanks. Why?

m2raintanks (www.m2raintanks.com.au) is a Melbourne supplier/installer of various tanks, including poly. As a retailer they have a responsibility to provide information to the public on their products . If they don’t know I expect them to contact the manufacturer and get back to me with the requested information. They are ignoring me.

What do you think? leave a comment or email me donmatthews@gmail.com

Evidence

fromDon Matthews
toinfo@m2raintanks.com.au

Feb 24, 2009
subjectRecycling UV degraded poly tank
mailed-bygmail.com

Dear m2raintanks,

I notice you supply a large range of poly rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
----------------------------------------------------------
No response
---------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews donmatthews7@gmail.com
toinfo@m2raintanks.com.au
Mar 4, 2009
Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tanks
mailed-bygmail.com

I have not heard back from you. Is there a problem?

Don
-------------------------------------------------------
No response
--------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews donmatthews7@gmail.com
toinfo@m2raintanks.com.au
Mar 10, 2009
subjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tank
mailed-bygmail.com

Dear m2tanks

I have emailed you twice about recycling poly tanks. Why haven't I received a reply???

Don Matthews
---------------------------------------------------------
No response
--------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews
toinfo@m2raintanks.com.au
date Mar 23, 2009
subjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tank
mailed-bygmail.com

To: Managing Director m2raintanks
From: Don Matthews

Dear Sir/Madam,

As an environmentally concerned member of the public I have asked on three occasions (24 Feb, 4 March, 10 March) for advice on whether the poly tanks you sell can be recycled at the end of their life when degraded by sunlight.

Could you please explain why I am being ignored and not given the courtesy of an acknowledgement or reply?

Don Matthews
---------------------------------------------------------
No response
--------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews
to info@m2raintanks.com.au

dateFri, Mar 27, 2009 at 2:38 PM
subjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tank
mailed-bygmail.com

Please acknowledge and respond to my email.

Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------------------
18 April No response
-------------------------------------------------------
AUSTRALIAN POLY TANK CONCERNED INDIVIDUALS GROUP
The Great Australian Poly Tank Debate
http://thegreataustralianpolytankdebate.blogspot.com

Mitre 10 Blackwood SA

2009-04-21T00:12:00.001-07:00

Mitre 10
Blackwood SA
----------------------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com> toblwd@balcoop.com.au
Apr 21, 2009 subject Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Rohan,

I noticed your advert for Teampoly poly rainwater tanks in our local The Blackwood Times (April 2009) and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if they can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life. Could you please advise if Teampoly's tanks can be recycled when degraded by sunlight at the end of their life.

Thanks for your help,
Don Matthews
---------------------------------------------------------
Don its Mark we had this conversation yesterday you need to take this up with team poly here is there email address www.teampoly.com.au
---------------------------------------------------------
Mark,

I'm going to need a response back from Teampoly via Mitre 10. Responsibility for providing information back to the public on products rests with the retailer. You can't put this back on the customer. Also this is important information you need to have at your fingertips these days because people are becoming more environment-conscious and wanting to know if plastic products they are buying can be recycled at the end of their life. Could you please contact Teampoly and ask what they advise you tell customers who ask whether their tanks can be recycled when degraded by sunlight at the end of their life.

Thanks
Don
----------------------------------------------------------
fromBlackwood M10 <blwd@balcoop.com.au>toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
dateWed, May 6, 2009 at 5:53 PMsubjectRE: Recycling UV degraded poly tank

Don surely you would appreciate the need for water storage. Both companies who make them and customers who buy them need an alternative, do you have one?. The Murray river is at a critical low and these people are making an effort, yet you criticise them for making a positive difference for the environment. It makes no sense for you to single out rainwater tanks when the irrigation products that you purchase are made from a similar product that can’t be recycled .You have already spoken to team poly and other manufactures, these tanks have been approved by the Australian government. I suggest you take it up with them that is your right as a consumer. Mark
----------------------------------------------------------
Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toBlackwood M10 <mailto:blwd@balcoop.com.au 12, 2009 at 4:47 PMsubjectRe: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Mark,

You have raised some interesting points worth discussing at another time but you seem to be evading a very simple request from an enquiring member of the public wanting to know if the Teampoly tanks you sell can be recycled when degraded by sunlight at the end of their life. All you need to do is ring them up, ask them the question saying a customer was asking a question I don't know the answer to and see what they advise you to tell this customer. Then just email me back with their reply. Simple. It's your responsibility as a retailer. All the other points you raise are red herrings and irrelevant to my enquiry.

Cheers
Don
------------------------------------------------------
fromBlackwood M10 <blwd@balcoop.com.au>toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com> May 14, 2009 at 11:31 AMsubjectRE: Recycling UV degraded poly tank

Team poly have said their tanks are able to be recycled at the end of their life, quite often they are turned into trough’s. If this harassment continues it will become a police matter.

Mark
------------------------------------------------------

RELN PLASTICS REFUSING TO ANSWER

2009-04-20T22:44:00.000-07:00

Reln Plastics refusing to answer questions on 'recyclability' of poly tanks.

donmatthews7@gmail.com> mailto:to nigelnattrass@reln.com.au Mar 24, 2009 subject Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

To: Nigel Nattrass Managing Director Reln Plastics

Dear Nigel,

There is an opinion going around that UV-degraded poly tanks cannot be recycled, that sunlight breaks the plastic down until it becomes brittle, falls apart and loses all the properties which enable it to be remoulded and recycled. As Managing Director of Reln Plastics I would be interested in your view on this. If degraded plastic cannot be recycled I see a potential environmental problem ahead when millions of degraded tanks will need disposing of at the end of their life.

Regards
Don Mattthews
---------------------------------------------------------
No response
---------------------------------------------------------
donmatthews7@gmail.com> to nigelnattrass@reln.com.au Apr 1, 2009 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Nigel

Do you have a response for me?

Don
---------- -----------------------------------------------
No response
---------------------------------------------------------
donmatthews7@gmail.com> to nigelnattrass@reln.com.au Apr 6, 2009 at 10:48 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Nigel,

I am still waiting .

Don Matthews
---------------------------------------------------------
No response.
---------------------------------------------------------

Reln website http://www.reln.com.au/

Environmental Responsibility

Environmental responsibility has been one of the cornerstones of Reln's development. All Reln's proprietary range of products are made mostly from polypropylene or polyethylene. Of all the polymers used by the plastics industry, polypropylene and polyethylene have the most viable second-life application and are the most easily sourced from the waste stream.

Reln pioneered the use of recycled plastic plastic in Australia and is now one of its leading consumers. Unless required by a product's unique specifications, Reln routinely uses recycled plastic in its products. Reln's program development team emphasises environmentally responsible solutions to meet its corporate client's needs. Reln's contributions to waste-minimisation and recycling have garnered significant recognition and numerous awards. Reln has developed strong corporate relationships with leading environmental organisations such as Landcare Australia, Keep Australia Beautiful, and the Environmental Protection Agency, as well as Government health departments and local governments.

Reln's line of recycling products are now distributed by more than 350 local governments in Australia.
---------------------------------------------------------

Advanced Plastic Recyclers Australia (SA)

2009-04-14T20:59:00.000-07:00

Recycler
Adelaide SA
----------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tochris@a-p-r.com.au
Apr 15, 2009 subjectRecycling UV degraded polyethylene tanks mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Chris,

As a recycler of plastics I am wondering if you can help me with some research am doing into recycling UV degraded poly rainwater tanks. Can degraded plastic be recycled? There are views around saying it can and others saying it can't. Can you shed any light on this? Have you recycled any degraded tanks or plastic?

Thanks for any help or clarification you can offer.
Don Matthews
----------------------------------------------

Downpour Freshwater Solutions (manufacturer VIC)

2009-04-05T18:10:00.000-07:00

Manufacturer,
Sunbury VIC
1300 664 148
-----------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toinfo@downpour.com.au
Mar 31, 2009 subject Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Downpour,

I notice you manufacture rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toinfo@downpour.com.au
Apr 6, 2009 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Could you please acknowledge and repond to my email.

Don Matthews
-------------------------------------------
fromKathy Fry <KathyFry@downpour.com.au>toDon Matthews
<donmatthews7@gmail.com> Apr 6, 2009 RE: Recycling UV degraded poly tank

My apologies Don, I have been getting the answer for you and was emailing you this afternoon. Our tanks have UV protection so sunlight wont break them down. At the end of their life Poly tanks can be recycled. They are broken down and chipped to re-make the powder that is used to make the tanks. I hope this information is of value to you.

Kind regards
Kathy Fry
Downpour Business and Sunbury Office Manager
Phone: 1300 664 148Fax: 1300 769 678Email
kathyfry@downpour.com.au
----------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toKathy Fry <KathyFry@downpour.com.au>Apr 6, 2009 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Thanks Kathy
Don
------------------------------------------------

Tanks for Sale (supplier SA)

2009-04-05T18:01:00.000-07:00

Supplier
Sheidow Park, SA
Brad Fuss
(08) 8387 1744
-------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tobradfuss@optusnet.com
Apr 2, 2009 subject Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Brad,

I notice you sell rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
-------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tobradfuss@optusnet.com
Apr 6, 2009 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Brad,

Could you please acknowledge and respond to my email.

Don Matthews
-------------------------------------------

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

2009-04-01T18:11:00.000-07:00

July 2008
-------------------------------------------
JOHN ROSEFELDER (Stainless Rainwater Tanks Pty Ltd)
"Currently there is no way to recycle the spent plastic and this may create a real environmental problem when all the plastic tanks will start to fail in the years to come" (http://www.stainlessrainwatertanks.com/. Questions and answers)

"Unfortunately your statement that “manufacturers state that tanks are recyclable” cannot be substantiated. For such a statement to have any value concise information would be required. Example Mr..... from Poly World, in his position as Managing Director declared on the (date) that tanks manufactured from polyethylene after expire of their service life can be recycle in following manner........... with the end product being used as........... I would welcome if you could supply such information and I change my website accordingly. Any other statement is meaningless and purely a marketing tool" (email 10 July) "

I am in close contact with (name removed) one of the largest poly tank manufacturer in Australia. My question to him regarding recycling is always answered in a very coy and political way. Essentially nobody in this industry would address the issue that poly tanks are actually failing already, many well before there warranty expires. Therefore if nobody acknowledge this problem in the first place, there is no need to discuss recycling!!!!!" (email 10 July)

"I am not a scientist, but my common sense and every day experience tells me that there is a real issue with recycling spent poly. This statement is based on following reasoning. 1)“spent” poly is a product where the polymers, which give poly the elasticity and strength are destroyed by the exposure to UV rays. To the best of my knowledge there is no technology available to reverse this process. 2) We replaced numerous split and cracked poly tanks, and this shells just remain in the field, some for years. Refuse dumps do not accept them ( here in Brisbane anyway). If there would be any value in this piles of twisted plastic, somebody surely would be happy to accept them. 3) The shell of the black poly tank, shown in my website, resting on a vacant block of land about 4km from the Brisbane CBD for the last 4 years. Well within walking distance of some metal recyclers. If there would be any value at all in this heap of plastic, it would have disappeared years ago. 4)If you take a drive through the country side around Brisbane, towards Gatton you see numerous failed tank just laying in the fields, one of them is actually recycled. It has been spilt in halve and is used as a goat house. 5) If you visit Bunnings you will find garden edging made from recycled plastic, but not poly" (email 10 July)
-----------------------------------------------------
LEISA DONLAN (CEO ARMA Association of Rotational Moulders Australasia)
"Can poly tanks be recycled? yes they can be completely recycled" (http://www.watertanks.org.com.au/) "the material is 100% recycled" (http://www.watertanks.org.com.au/)

"Most of the spent tanks will be recycled into animal troughs, road barriers and non-food grade products" (email 14 July) ---------------------------------------------------------
DON MATTHEWS (concerned member of public)
"I will not sit idly by and watch a big multimillion dollar organization risk mucking up the environment for my kids all for the sake of sales and the dollar"

"I am getting frustrated at being given vague and evasive answers, or no answers at all, to what I, and a lot of other people, view as very important and serious questions about the future of our environment" (email to LD 24 July)

"I may be old fashioned but I still value the courtesy of acknowlegement or reply " (on sending emails)

"Unlike ARMA, my research project with the University of Maradonga is not top secret" (on Leisa Donlan's comment that details and progress of a recycling research between ARMA and the University of Auckland, broadcast on ARMA'S website is restricted to ARMA members)

"I do not seem to be getting any replies to my email questions to manufacturers - probably getting lost in the system" (email to LD 24 July)

"It seems more like a marketing tool than a genuine care for the environment"(email to LD 24 July)

"I am willing to stand corrected if I am coming to the wrong conclusions" (email to LD 24 July)

"I am getting the impression that no-one in the poly tank industry is willing to address the problem that tanks are already failing. If no-one acknowledges there is a problem in the first place I guess there is no need to discuss recycling.... is there? (email to LD 24 July)
-------------------------------------------------------
SMART SEWAGE SOLUTIONS (supplier)
"Basically, non-conforming tanks (seconds) or tanks that have come to the end of their working life or that have been fatally damaged can be cut up and returned to the manufacturer for recycling into non-food grade products"
-------------------------------------------------------
Sep 2008
-------------------------------------------------------
THOMAS PLASTICS (manufacturer QLD)
"You can most definitely recycle the tank at the end of their lives, however they tend to last a very long time our tanks come with a 25 year warranty, Any off cuts, seconds or damaged tanks are recycled here as we have a full recycling plant in house which allows us to reprocess the plastic and re use for other products"
------------------------------------------------------
ROTECH (manufacturer QLD)
"We manufacture our poly tanks from food grade plastic which can be recycled"

"The answer to your question is yes. Even after 20 years the plastic can still be recycled it would only be the outer wall of the tank that may be affected"
------------------------------------------------------
ECOPLANIT (supplier SA)
"Our tanks are manufactured from high quality food grade Polyethylene so recycling shouldn’t be a problem.
Currently none of the manufacturers offer a recycling programme but may do in the future"
------------------------------------------------------
ECOWATERWISE/ROTOMECH (Manufacturer Pooraka SA)
"The answer is yes, in fact polyethylene water tanks are made from LLDPE and this is a good recyclable material"
--------------------------------------------------------
ROTECH (manufacturers)
"We manufacture our poly tanks from food grade plastic which can be recycled. (email 23 Sep)

"The answer to your question is yes. Even after 20 years the plastic can still be recycled it would only be the outer wall of the tank that may be affected.Hope this clarifies it for you"
------------------------------------------------------
ASTRON PLASTICS (Recyclers)
"Due to our focus on clean source material Astron plastics does not collect post consumer waste" (website)
------------------------------------------------------
PLASTIC TANKS QUEENSLAND (manufacturers)
"Yes our tanks are entirely recyclable. We recycle and reuse our own scrap plastic.The plastic we use has been UV stabilised so the harsh Australian sun does not break down the plastic. It been in testing for over 25 years"
------------------------------------------------------
Oct 2008
------------------------------------------------------
POLYTANK
Rainwater tanks are made from polyethylene which is at the top of the list as far as recycling is concerned. I have recyclers such as PGS and Advanced Plastic Recycling lining up for any tank failures and are prepared to pay for the plastic
------------------------------------------------------
TANKPOLY (manufacturer Lonsdale SA)
"After checking this with our suppliers technical department, I can confirm that the tanks can be recycled after their life span for other uses"
---------------------------------------------------
March 2009
---------------------------------------------------
MASTER TANKS (manufacturer SA)
"Yes all of our polyethylene tanks can be recycled"
---------------------------------------------------
POLY WATER TANKS (manufacturer NSW)
"All our tanks are can be recycled"
--------------------------------------------------

MISCELLANEOUS
" I find it interesting the no comments you get. my general theory is that no plastic of any sort will suffer the sun. i have seen even the best of outdoor sheeets etc only break down. I truly believe the best tanks are concrete or galv." (JD)

"I am concerned about the environment in general. I want clean air, clean water. In short, a cleaner world" (Spike Milligan) "

I have been following your 'debate' with interest" (PV)

"I have purchased many poly tanks in my time. This is because the corrugated galvanized ones rust out in 10 - 12 years with Adelaide water. I will never buy an 'iron' tank again." (PV)

"Good luck with it" (DM)

"if they say they can recycle them, then maybe they can, once they add new materials in the mix..?" (CD)

"This is amazing" (PV)

"they have been of interest to me. It does seem that you will have quite battle to get anywhere on this one, but I wish you the very best of luck." (RW)

"Your approach is much too aggressive for me" (Jennifer Morohasey Australian Environment Foundation))
---------------------------------------------------

DON'T UNDERESTIMATE OUR LEADER

2009-03-25T22:03:00.000-07:00

A MESSAGE FROM THE AUSTRALIAN POLY TANK CONCERNED

INDIVIDUALS GROUP TO THE AUSTRALIAN POLY TANK INDUSTRY

Don’t underestimate our leader.
He’s aiming for transparency –
and he shoots from the hip

“I want this all out in the open.
Total transparency.
If UV-degraded plastic can be
recycled produce me the evidence”

don matthews
leader APTCIG

“I admire your mission for the truth. Your action helps to wake us up to industry's tricks of the trade. ”
“I just wanted to say stick to your guns! I don't like to see the little guy being pushearound.” (Cassie)
“Congratulations on your working through this issue” (James Porteous Managing Editor ECOS)
“All the best in your endeavours” (Steve Payne Editor Organic Gardener)
“Keep up the good work” (Beck Lowe Cydonia Permaculture)
“Congratulations. You’re on the money” (Don Burke)

birth of origin donmatthews7 studio adelaide 23 march 2009

EGR WATER BLOCKS INVESTIGATIONS

2009-03-25T21:36:00.000-07:00

donmatthews7 studio adelaide
INFORMATION RELEASE 3

Polytank manufacturer
EGR Water blocks investigations into industry recycling claims by environment group APTCIG

Leader of the newly-formed environment group the Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group Mr Don Matthews believes the industry is misleading the Australian public on recycling. He says the “Can poly tanks be recycled? Yes, they can be completely recycled” claim by industry association CEO Leisa Donlan is simply not true.

According to Mr Matthews the principles of chemistry say recycling of UV-degraded plastic is not possible and he has evidence from Research and Development of a major manufacturer to support this.

He wants to ask questions of the Managing Director of EGR Water but the General Manager, Mr Stephen Clark is denying access. Ms Donlan has advised Mr Clark to have nothing to do with Mr Matthews who “is involved in legal action with the Association” (Association of Rotomoulders Australia ARMA)

Ultraviolet light in sunlight breaks down plastic making it brittle, fall apart and unable to be remoulded and recycled. Millions of tanks unrecyclable tanks will eventually be lying around creating an environmental problem. What is the industry planning to do with them? Landfill?

birth of origin donmatthews7 studio Adelaide 25 march 2009

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Supporting Evidence

From Hynes, Wayne
To Don Matthews
cc"Clarke, Stephen"
dateThu, Mar 5, 2009 at 3:03 PM
subject RE: EGR MD details request
mailed-byegr.com.au

Hi Don,
Please make contact with Stephen Clarke. He is waiting for your communication. Stephen reports to the MD.

Regards
Wayne
WAYNE HYNES
State Sales Manager
Rotational Moulding Division
106-110 Lambeck Drive, Tullamarine, Melbourne,
Victoria 3043 Australia

-------------------------------------
From Don Matthews

donmatthews7@gmail.com tosclarke@egr.com.au
ccLeisa Donlan
bcc"Hynes, Wayne"
date Fri, Mar 6, 2009 at 11:50 AM
subject don matthews to stephen clarke - I wish to communicate direct with the MD
mailed-bygmail.com

From Don Matthews APTCIG
To: Stephen Clarke General Manager EGR Water

Dear Stephen,
I seem to be having trouble getting through to the top. I wish to communicate direct with the Managing Director of EGR. Could you please ask them to touch base.

Thanks
Don Matthews
Leader APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"an edgy group with an edgy leader"

--------------------------------------
from ARMA Reception
toDon Matthews
dateFri, Mar 6, 2009 at 12:14 PM
RE: don matthews to stephen clarke - I wish to communicate direct with the MD

Dear Stephen

This gentleman is currently involved in legal action with the Association. We strongly recommend you do not reply to him. He is in the habit of publishing edited versions of responses on his blog site.
http://thegreataustralianpolytankdebate.blogspot.com/

Best regards
Leisa Donlan
CEO
Association of Rotational Moulders Australasia Inc.

--------------------------------------------------
From Don Matthews

donmatthews7@gmail.com toARMA Reception
ccLeisa Donlan ,
sclarke@egr.com.au
Fri, Mar 6, 2009 at 4:47 PM
Re: don matthews to stephen clarke - I wish to communicate direct with the MD
mailed-bygmail.com
Copy to: undisclosed recipients

Dear ARMA reception webmasta,

Interesting move Leisa. Luck has it I think I can make some mileage out this one. Will give it to my boys at 'triple m' to play around with. They're good at coming up with 'interesting' counter-moves. Will be back shortly with my countermove.

Cheers,
Don

PS Stephen - how you move is up to you. I have no issue with you. All you need to do is pass my message on to the MD and email me back that you have done so. In this way you will be protecting yourself by not becoming involved. Leisa has given good advice in your not passing any opinion or blocking my moves. Just email me back to say you have passed on my message to the MD and I cannot touch you. I hope you follow my reasoning

Don
----------------------------------------------
From Don Matthews

donmatthews7@gmail.com to sclarke@egr.com.au
ccLeisa Donlan ,
"trent. farleigh"
bcc"Hynes, Wayne"
dateTue, Mar 10, 2009 at 4:28 PM
subjectdon matthews to stephen clarke
mailed-bygmail.com

From: Don Matthews APTCIG
To: Stephen Clarke General Manager EGR Water

Dear Stephen,

I have not received confirmation back from you that my email has been forwarded on to your Managing Director. I will wait until close of business on Thursday 12 March. If I have not heard back by then I will interpret your actions as trying to block my investigations into industry recycling claims and include your name along with Leisa Donlan and Trent Farleigh and circulate widely.

Don Matthews.
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"seeking open and honest answers to open and honest questions"

-----------------------------------------------
From Don Matthews

donmatthews7@gmail.com tosclarke@egr.com.au
ccLeisa Donlan ,
"trent. farleigh"
dateMon, Mar 23, 2009 at 4:50 PM
subjectRe: don matthews to stephen clarke
mailed-bygmail.com

To: Stephen Clarke General Manager EGR Water
From: Don Matthews APTCIG
Copy to : undisclosed recipients

Dear Stephen,

On March 10 asked you to forward my email requesting your Managing Director to make contact with me. I wish to ask questions regarding poly tank recycling claims.
I informed you that if my request was not passed on and confirmation received by close of business on 12 March I would interpret your actions as an attempt to block my investigations and circulate this fact widely. It seems your ARMA association CEO Leisa Donlan advised you not to communicate with me and it would appear you have taken her advice over mine. So be it.

In doing so, however, you have left yourself wide open to attack by myself and members of my group. You now join my list of Leisa Donlan and Trent Farleigh as blocking APTCIG investigations into industry recycling claims. I take no responsibility for any consequences which may now result from your decision.

Don Matthews.
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"we're aiming for transparency - and we shoot from the hip"

--------------------------------------------------

Looking for the most positive way forward
with the least amount of pain

AAA Water Tanks

2009-03-10T20:22:00.000-07:00

Gepps Cross SA
--------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tosales@aaawatertanks.com.au
Mar 11, 2009 subject Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear AAA Water Tanks,

I notice you manufacture rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------
fromAAA Water Tanks <sales@aaawatertanks.com.au>toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com> Mar 11, 2009 RE: Recycling UV degraded poly tank

Thank you Don for your enquiry, I have been in contact with our suppliers and I do believe you have the relevant information already sent to you by our suppliers.Thank you once again

Pam
-------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toAAA Water Tanks <sales@aaawatertanks.com.au>Mar 23, 2009 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Hi Pam,

Could you please tell me the name and email address of your Managing Director? I would like to ask some questions.

Thanks,
Don Matthews
------------------------------------------ fromAAA Water Tanks toDon Matthews
Mar 24, 2009 RE: Recycling UV degraded poly tank

Hi Don,

We are a family business, who distribute rainwater tanks and therefore we do not have this kind of management structure. I therefore suggest that if this is a matter of concern to you, you should contact manufacturers who may potentially have this information, rather than distributers.

Simon
Manager
AAA Water Tanks
---------------------------------------------
Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toAAA Water Tanks <mailto:sales@aaawatertanks.com.au%3EMar 24, 2009 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Hi Simon,

I am a little perplexed with what you and Pam are saying. Had a look on your website and you seem to stock two brands of tanks - Downpour and Polymaster. What is Pam meaning by "I have been in contact with our suppliers and I do believe you have the relevant information already sent to you by our suppliers" ? I don't recall receiving any information from these manufacturers?

From what I understand of your advertising you sell tanks direct to the public rather than a middleman distibuter? Is this right? If you are a retailer I would have thought it was your responsibility to answer and advise the public on any question regarding the products you sell. If you don't know whether poly tanks can be recycled at the end of their life when degraded by sunlight I would have expected you to ask the manufacturer and get back to me. This is how it normally works.

Look forward to hearing from you and what the manufacturers Downpour and Polymaster are advising.

Regards
Don Matthews
------------------------------------------

Rainhaven Water Systems

2009-03-10T20:01:00.000-07:00

Manufacturer
Head office ?
-------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tosales@rainhaven.com.au
Mar 11, 2009 RE Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Rainhaven Water Systems,

I notice you manufacture rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------
fromSales at Rainhaven <sales@rainhaven.com.au>toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>Mar 12, 2009 RE: Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-byrainhaven.com.au

Hello Don

Yes the tanks are recyclable. We cut up & recycle tanks that don’t pass quality control & thought they cannot be used again to make tanks they are used for buoys & other products.

Kind Regards,
Peter Willson
Sales DeptRainhaven™ Water Systems
----------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toSales at Rainhaven <sales@rainhaven.com.au>
Mar 12, 2009 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Peter,

Thankyou for your reply but I don't know why you are telling me manufacturing rejects are recycled? that's not what I was asking. I thought my question was clear that I "would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight". You seem to have missed this?

Don Matthews
------------------------------------------

Master Tanks (manufacturer SA)

2009-03-10T19:01:00.001-07:00

Manufacturer
Marleston SA
---------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toAdmin@mastertanks.com.au
Mar 11, 2009 subject Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Master Tanks,

I notice you manufacture rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.
I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
------------------------------------------------
fromMaster Tanks toDon Matthews date Mar 11, 2009 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tank

Hi Sir ,

Yes all of our polyethylene tanks can be recycled
Is there something else we can help you with.

Regards David
MASTER TANKS
230 RICHMOND RD
MARLESTON
PH (08) 84439061
------------------------------------------
Post closed
------------------------------------------

Maxiplas

2009-03-10T18:54:00.001-07:00

Manufacturer
Regency Park SA
--------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>todamien@maxiplas.com
Mar 11, 2009 subject Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Damien,

I am wondering if the poly tanks Maxiplas manufacture can be recycled when eventually broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
------------------------------------------------
fromDamien Hough <damien@maxiplas.com> to Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
Mar 11, 2009 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tank

Hi Don

Thanks for your enquiry.To answer your question, We use 100% food grade polyethylene with a UV stabiliser. Once a tank has reached its shelf life, the material is granulated, treated and we have various applications that this recycled material can be utilised in. It is very comforting to get feedback from consumers who are passionate and aware of our environment such as yourself.

Kind regards
Damien Hough
Sales/Logistics
-----------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toDamien Hough <damien@maxiplas.com>Mar 11, 2009 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Hi Damien,

Just to clarify, when the tank reaches its shelf life in 15+ years it will have been degraded by UV in sunlight, become brittle and fall apart, just like a (non-stabilized) plastic watering can does when left out in the sun. Your reply suggests you already do this with UV-degraded plastic. I can understand non-degraded plastic being recycled, we already do this, but what about degraded plastic? I am a bit puzzled because poly tanks are going to take 15+ years before they get to the stage where they need to be recycled. I don't really know how can say a 15+year-old degraded plastic tank can be recycled when this is in the future? Is there any evidence to that degraded plastic can be recycled? Guess you'd need a tank which has been around for a long time. Can you shed any light on this as I am still having a problem with it. It is important because we are going to eventually end up with millions of degraded tanks in the environment and if it turns out they can't be recycled we're going to have a huge environmental problem.

Regards,
Don
-------------------------------------------

The Rainwater Tank Centre

2009-03-10T18:40:00.000-07:00

Supplier
Melrose Pk SA
--------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>torwtc@internode.on.net
Mar 11, 2009 subject Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Rainwater Tank Centre,

I notice you sell rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.
I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------

The Tank Broker

2009-03-10T18:31:00.000-07:00

Supplier
Adelaide SA
--------------------------------------------

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tothetankbroker@gmail.com
Mar 11, 2009 subject Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear Tankbroker,

I notice you sell rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
-----------------------------------------------

m2raintanks

2009-03-09T23:34:00.000-07:00

Supplier
--------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toinfo@m2raintanks.com.au
Tue, Feb 24, 2009 subject Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear m2raintanks,

I notice you supply a large range of poly rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
---------------------------------------------
no response
---------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toinfo@m2raintanks.com.au
Mar 4, 2009 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

I have not heard back from you. Is there a problem?

Don
----------------------------------------------
no response
--------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toinfo@m2raintanks.com.au
Mar 10, 2009 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear m2tanks

I have emailed you twice about recycling poly tanks. Why haven't I received a reply???

Don Matthews
-------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com> toinfo@m2raintanks.com.au
Mar 23, 2009 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

To: Managing Director m2raintanks
From: Don Matthews

Dear Sir/Madam,

As an environmentally concerned member of the public I have asked on three occasions (24 Feb, 4 March, 10 March) for advice on whether the poly tanks you sell can be recycled at the end of their life when degraded by sunlight. Could you please explain why I am being ignored and not given the courtesy of an acknowledgement or reply?

Don Matthews
---------------------------------------------

TRACKING DOWN EGR's MD

2009-03-05T22:19:00.000-08:00

From: Don Matthews [mailto:donmatthews7@gmail.com] 6 March 2009 To: sclarke@egr.com.auCc: Leisa Donlan
Subject: don matthews to stephen clarke - I wish to communicate direct with the MD

From Don Matthews APTCIG
To: Stephen Clarke General Manager EGR Water

Dear Stephen,

I seem to be having trouble getting through to the top. I wish to communicate direct with the Managing Director of EGR. Could you please ask them to touch base.

Thanks
Don Matthews
Leader APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"an edgy group with an edgy leader"
-------------------------------------------
Why I'm having trouble getting to the top
--------------------------------------------
27 Aug 2008
Leisa,
Do you have an email address for egr water ? Can't find it on their website.
Don

No response
----------------------------------------------
Dec 17 2008
To: Leisa Donlan CEO Association of Rotational Moulders Australasia
From: Don Matthews APTCIG

Leisa,
Please email names and email addresses for Managing Directors of the following manufacturers. I wish to ask some serious questions on recycling.

National Poly Industries
Ozpoly
EGR Water

If you choose not to release this information without a valid reason I will interpret your actions as a deliberate attempt to block my investigations into industry 'recycling' claims and will make every effort to make my view widely known.

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"seeking honest answers to open and honest questions"

No response. I am now proceeding to make my view widely known.
---------------------------------------------
from ARMA Reception <webmasta@rotationalmoulding.com>toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
Mar 6, 2009 RE: don matthews to stephen clarke - I wish to communicate direct with the MD

Dear Stephen
This gentleman is currently involved in legal action with the Association. We strongly recommend you do not reply to him. He is in the habit of publishing edited versions of responses on his blog site. http://thegreataustralianpolytankdebate.blogspot.com/
Best regards
Leisa Donlan
CEO
Association of Rotational Moulders Australasia Inc.
------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toARMA Reception <webmasta@rotationalmoulding.com>
ccLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>,sclarke@egr.com.au
Mar 6, 2009 subject Re: don matthews to stephen clarke - I wish to communicate direct with the MD

Copy to: undisclosed recipients

Dear ARMA reception webmasta,
It appears you have sent me ( whoever you may be) a copy of an email Leisa sent to Stephen. There was no cc.donmatthews7@gmail.com so perhaps it was a slipup?

Anyhow.

Now I've got it I might as well bip in my bit.

Interesting move Leisa. Luck has it I think I can make some mileage, sorry, kilometreage, out this one. Will give it to my boys at 'triple m' to play around with. They're good at coming up with 'interesting' counter-moves. Will be back shortly with my countermove.

Cheers,
Don

PS Stephen - how you move is up to you. I have no issue with you. All you need to do is pass my message on to the MD and email me back that you have done so. In this way you will be protecting yourself by not becoming involved. Leisa has given good advice in your not passing any opinion or blocking my moves. Just email me back to say you have passed on my message to the MD and I cannot touch you. I hope you follow my reasoning Don
---------------------------------------------

POLLY TO MR DIXON TEAMPOLY

2009-03-04T18:53:00.000-08:00

Polly to Mr Dixon Teampoly- rules of the debate

From: APTCIG HQ
To: Richie Dixon Managing Director Teampoly

Dear Mr Dixon,

My apologies for setting you up in a debate without giving you any idea of how the Debate is going to work. We have been so busy here at APTCIG HQ preparing our Peoples Court to do battle with your Association leader's Court of Law challenge that it completely slipped my mind. My apologies again.

The Debate is going to work like this:

All debaters must communicate through the Central Administrator (me). So, our leader Mr Matthews has challenged you with a question (twice it so appears) so now you must respond directly back to him. My job as Debate Adjudicator is to see the all the Rules of the Debate are followed (which reminds me I must get a list of rules together and distribute or there'll other debaters in a tizz wondering what to do).

Posted comments are reserved for the audience only and can be from any silly identifier like 'easily frustrated with idiots' or even 'anonymous'. You must come out into the open and meet your debater face to face. You cannot hide behind anonymity and hope to get away with it, not that I think you would of course.

The gathering audience is waiting for your response Mr Dixon. Please don't make them wait too long. They have a lot of other debates our leader is lining up they will be wanting to go to as well.

Yours in adjudicology,
Polly F Leen (Miss) ,BAdj U of M
Debate Adjudicator(cum APTCIG secretary)
-----------------------------------------------

EGR Water

2009-03-04T18:34:00.000-08:00

Manufacturer

Tullamarine VIC (rotational moulding division)
Carole Park, QLD
Chipping Norton NSW
---------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>towhynes@egr.com.au
Thu, Mar 5, 2009 subject EGR MD details request mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Wayne,

Could you please give me the name and email address of EGR's Managing Director.

Thanks
Don Matthews
----------------------------------------------
fromHynes, Wayne <whynes@egr.com.au>toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
cc"Clarke, Stephen" <sclarke@egr.com.au>
Mar 5, 2009 RE: EGR MD details request mailed-by egr.com.au

Hi Don,

Please advise the nature of your enquiry so that we can assist.
Regards
Wayne

WAYNE HYNES
State Sales Manager
Rotational Moulding Division
106-110 Lambeck Drive, Tullamarine, Melbourne, Victoria 3043 Australia
---------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>to"Hynes, Wayne" <whynes@egr.com.au>
Thu, Mar 5, 2009 Re: EGR MD details request mailed-bygmail.com

Just a simple request for name and email address. Is there a problem with this?

Don
---------------------------------------------
fromHynes, Wayne <whynes@egr.com.au>toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
dateThu, Mar 5, 2009 : EGR MD details requestmailed-byegr.com.au

Hi Don,

I don't have the authority to give this information. Stephen Clarke is the General Manager and I suggest you contact him sclarke@egr.com.au

Regards
Wayne
-------------------------------------------
Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>to"Hynes, Wayne" <whynes@egr.com.au>
Mar 5, 2009 : EGR MD details requestmailed-bygmail.com

Hi Wayne,

That's OK. If I want to communicate with the top person in EGR is it the Managing Director I need? Where, as General Manager, is Stephen in the organisation? Maybe he is high enough?

Don
----------------------------------------------
fromHynes, Wayne <whynes@egr.com.au>toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
cc"Clarke, Stephen" <sclarke@egr.com.au>
Thu, Mar 5, 2009 at 3:03 RE: EGR MD details request mailed-byegr.com.au

Hi Don

please make contact with Stephen Clarke. He is waiting for your communication.

Stephen reports to the MD.

Regards
Wayne
---------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tosclarke@egr.com.au
ccLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>
Mar 6, 2009 don matthews to stephen clarke - I wish to communicate direct with the MD mailed-bygmail.com

From Don Matthews APTCIG
To: Stephen Clarke General Manager EGR Water

Dear Stephen,

I seem to be having trouble getting through to the top. I wish to communicate direct with the Managing Director of EGR. Could you please ask them to touch base.

Thanks
Don Matthews
Leader APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"an edgy group with an edgy leader"
---------------------------------------------
ARMA Reception <webmasta@rotationalmoulding.com> wrote:

Dear Stephen

This gentleman is currently involved in legal action with the Association. We strongly recommend you do not reply to him. He is in the habit of publishing edited versions of responses on his blog site. http://thegreataustralianpolytankdebate.blogspot.com/

Best regards
Leisa Donlan
CEO Association of Rotational Moulders Australasia Inc
---------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toARMA Reception <webmasta@rotationalmoulding.com>
ccLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>,sclarke@egr.com.au
Mar 6, 2009 subjectdon matthews to stephen clarke - I wish to communicate direct with the MDmailed-bygmail.com

Copy to: undisclosed recipients

Dear ARMA reception webmasta,

It appears you have sent me ( whoever you may be) a copy of an email Leisa sent to Stephen. There was no cc.donmatthews7@gmail.com so perhaps it was a slipup?

Stephen - how you move is up to you. I have no issue with you. All you need to do is pass my message on to the MD and email me back that you have done so. In this way you will be protecting yourself by not becoming involved. Leisa has given good advice in your not passing any opinion or blocking my moves. Just email me back to say you have passed on my message to the MD and I cannot touch you. I hope you follow my reasoning Don
---------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tosclarke@egr.com.au
ccLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>,"trent. farleigh" <Trent.Farleigh@vanglobe.com.au> Mar 10, 2009 subject don matthews to stephen clarke mailed-bygmail.com

From: Don Matthews APTCIG
To: Stephen Clarke General Manager EGR Water

Dear Stephen,

I have not received confirmation back from you that my email has been forwarded on to your Managing Director. I will wait until close of business on Thursday 12 March. If I have not heard back by then I will interpret your actions as trying to block my investigations into industry recycling claims and include your name along with Leisa Donlan and Trent Farleigh and circulate widely.

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"seeking open and honest answers to open and honest questions"
---------------------------------------------

Waterstore Poly Tanks VIC

2009-03-02T22:40:00.000-08:00

Manufacturer
Marong VIC
---------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>totanks@waterstore.com.au
Mar 3, 2009 Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Waterstore,

I notice you manufacture rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
-----------------------------------------------
fromDoug <doug@waterstore.com.au>toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>Mar 3, 2009 RE: Recycling UV degraded poly tank

Don,

We recycle scrap plastic and faulty tanks and it gets re ground and made into stock troughs, so its life is extended. Local recyclers would be more than pleased to re use your tank I would think

Kind Regards Doug Bell
Sales & Marketing Manager
WaterStore Poly Tanks
----------------------------------------------
A careful look at my question tells you I'm wanting to know about a tank which has been out in the sun for 15+years. This is not "scrap plastic and faulty tanks". Why would I be wanting to know about recycling factory scraps and faulty tanks? This should be standard practice anyhow. Once more the myth that degraded plastic can be recycled the same as non-degraded plastic is being perpetrated to keep a greenie customer happy. Have Waterstore ever tried to recycle degraded plastic? The response suggests a belief that degraded plastic can be recycled the same as non-degraded plastic.
----------------------------------------------

Global Poly Water Tanks

2009-03-02T22:32:00.000-08:00

Manufacturer
Sorell, TAS
--------------------------------------------

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tosales@globalcontract.com.au
Mar 3, 2009 Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Global Poly Water Tanks,

I notice you manufacture rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.
I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
----------------------------------------------

Tankworld Tasmania

2009-03-02T22:25:00.000-08:00

Manufacturer
Kings Meadows, Tas
---------------------------------------------

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tosales@tankworldtas.com.au
Tue, Mar 3, 2009 Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Tankworld Tasmania,

I notice you manufacture rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
-------------------------------------------
fromSales <sales@tankworldtas.com.au> toDon Matthews
<donmatthews7@gmail.com>Mar 4, 2009 RE: Recycling UV degraded poly tank

Hi Don,

Poly is a recycleable product but we haven’t as yet had a poly tank break down to require recycling. All our poly tank have a 10 year warranty but Tankworld have been manufacturing them for around 30 years, so they do last considerably longer than their warranty period. We don’t actually have a projected lifespan for them as even the old ones seem to be lasting well.

Regards,
Dale
--------------------------------------------

Poly Water Tanks

2009-03-02T22:15:00.000-08:00

Manufacturer
Fountain Dale N.S.W
Poly Water Tanks is owned by
Rotational Moulders PTY. LTD.
--------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toinfo@polywatertanks.com.au
Tues 3 Mar 3, 2009 Recycling of UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Polywatertanks,

I notice you manufacture rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.
I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
------------------------------------------
frominfo@polywatertanks.com.au toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
Mar 5, 2009 Re: Recycling of UV degraded poly tank

Hi

All our tanks are can be recycled.
Regards Chad Pace
Poly Water Tanks
-----------------------------------------
Post closed
-----------------------------------------

West Coast Poly

2009-02-25T20:28:00.000-08:00

Manufacturer
Canning Vale, WA
----------------------------------------------------------
donmatthews7@gmail.com>toinfo@westcoastpoly.com.au
Feb 26, 2009 subject Recycling spent poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Dear West Coast Poly,

I notice you manufacture rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------------------
No response
--------------------------------------------------------
donmatthews7@gmail.com>toinfo@westcoastpoly.com.au
Mar 4, 2009 Recycling spent poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

I have not heard back from you. Is there a problem?
Don
--------------------------------------------------------
No response
--------------------------------------------------------
donmatthews7@gmail.com>toinfo@westcoastpoly.com.au
Mar 11, 2009 subjectRe: Recycling spent poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear West Coast Poly,

I have emailed you on two occasions asking about recycling degraded poly tanks but no-one acknowledges or replies.

Don Matthews
---------------------------------------------------------
No response
---------------------------------------------------------
donmatthews7@gmail.com>toinfo@westcoastpoly.com.au
Mar 27, 2009 subjectRe: Recycling spent poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Would you please acknowledge and respond to my question.

Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------------------
No response
--------------------------------------------------------
donmatthews7@gmail.com>toinfo@westcoastpoly.com.au
dateWed, Apr 8, 2009 at 3:49 PMsubjectRe: Recycling spent poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

To: The Managing Director West Coast Poly
From: Don Matthews APTCIG
Copy to: APTCIG members
: undisclosed recipients

Dear Sir/Madam,

I have written to you on four occasions (26 February, 4 March, 11 March and 27 March) as an environmentally conscious member of the public seeking advice on the recyclability of the poly tanks you manufacture. I have not had the courtesy of an acknowledgement or response to any.

Don Matthews,
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"asking questions, recording responses, drawing conclusions"
------------------------------------------------------
No response
------------------------------------------------------
donmatthews7@gmail.com>toinfo@westcoastpoly.com.au May 13, 2009 Re: Recycling spent poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

Dear West Coast Poly,

It appears you are trying to avoid me.

I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Don Matthews
----------------------------------------------------------
No response
---------------------------------------------------------

WA Poly Tanks

2009-02-25T20:11:00.000-08:00

Manufacturer
Henderson, WA
----------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tosales@wapolytanks.com.au
Feb 26, 2009 Subject Recycling poly tanks mailed-bygmail.com

Dear WA Poly Tanks,

I notice you supply a large range of poly rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me. I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
----------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tosales@wapolytanks.com.au
Mar 4, 2009 : Recycling poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

I have not heard back from you. Is there a problem?
Don
---------------------------------------------
fromGary Brockman <garyb@iinet.net.au>toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
Wed, Mar 4, 2009 : Recycling poly tank

Hi Don

Apologies for lack of response – our tanks are fully recyclable.

Regards
Gary Brockman
Director - Omni Manufacturing Pty Ltd/WA Poly Tanks
23 Success Way, Henderson, WA, 6166.www.omnimanufacturing.com;www.wapolytanks.com.au
Tel: 1800 92826
--------------------------------------------------------
22 April Sent TGAPTD flyer plus ARMA BLOCKS,CEASE AND DESIST/VANGLOBE BLOCKS attachments
------------------------------------------------------
fromGary Brockman <garyb@iinet.net.au>toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>Apr 22, 2009RE: The Great Australian Poly Tank Debatemailed-byiinet.net.au

Hi Don

Where are your offices? Over East? I’ll be in Sydney in May – could we catch up to discuss this issue – I’d like to hear your point of view? Regards Gary BrockmanDirector - Omni Manufacturing Pty Ltd23 Success Way, Henderson, WA, 6166.www.omnimanufacturing.com
-------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toGary Brockman <garyb@iinet.net.au> Apr 22, 2009 Re: The Great Australian Poly Tank Debatemailed-bygmail.com

Hi Gary,

No, I'm in Adelaide. Don't know how comfortable you are going to be with what I'm on about. Sounds like you have an open mind though and that's what's important. My aim is to bring it out into the open for discussion and debate. Nobody wants to talk about it but its got to be faced and sorted out. Have a look through the weblog. There is a lot more going on behind the scenes. Need to know where you're coming from. Look forward to further discusions.

Regards Don
-----------------------------------------------
Regret, don’t see myself in Adelaide for a while… I’ll look at the weblog when I get a chance.

Regards Gary Brockman Director - Omni Manufacturing Pty Ltd/WA Poly Tanks
---------------------------------------
Hi Gary, I like your open-minded attitude. Keep it up. Attached are are studio information releases I am beginning to send out to the public and media. Have a think about what i am saying and what is evolving. Keep an open mind and always remember that for me the bottom line is to look for the most positive way forward with the least amount of pain. Some in the industry have taken the attitude I am a competitor and regard me as their 'enemy' out to undermine the industry. I only go on the attack to people who through their own choice are not open and honest with me and are trying to hide something or avoid me. To others like yourself who are upfront and honest with me I respect. We may not agree with each other, that's not important. What is is that we all keep an open mind and are prepared to discuss and debate. Yes? OK, a lot of people are going to be put out of their comfort zone, including myself, but to me this is the only way we are going to make the rapid and huge mindshifts and behavioural changes needed for us to get thhrough the next decade (and come out smiling). Yes? Look forward to continued positive, constructive and friendly dialogue with you Happy acclimatising to my world,

Regards Don
---------------------------------------------------------

Debate 5 Trent, please explain

2009-02-24T18:08:00.000-08:00

Mr Matthews has asked to speak with Vanglobe's material scientist but Mr Farleigh refuses access. If you wish to check up on the background of this debate refer to the 'VANGLOBE BLOCKS INVESTIGATIONS' post

PFL
Adjudicator

----------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>to"trent. farleigh" <Trent.Farleigh@vanglobe.com.au>
ccLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>
Wed, Feb 25, 2009 subject Debate 5 Trent, please explain

From: Don Matthews APTCIG
To: Trent Farleigh Vanglobe Recyclers

Trent,

Leisa has suggested I talk to a material scientist. I have asked to talk to yours but you have said "no".

Can you please explain to me and my members why?

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"we're aiming for transparency - and we shoot from the hip"

PS This email has been posted on the Debate 5 'Trent, please explain' post. A gathering audience is awaiting your response.

---------------------------------------------

Debate 4 I would like an apology Malcolm

2009-02-24T16:15:00.000-08:00

From: Don Matthews APTCIG
To: Malcolm Campbell Absan

Malcolm,

I do not appreciate the following comment you have made about me:

"I have no idea who you are but you are totally ignorant and misinformed" (9 Jan 2009)

It would seem a good idea to find out who I am before making such comments.

I would like an apology.

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly tank Concerned Individuals Group
"valueing courtesy and respect"
----------------------------------------------

TEAMPOLY REFUSING TO ANSWER

2009-02-23T22:30:00.001-08:00

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
to richie@teampoly.com.au
Feb 9, 2009
subject Eco Friendly enquiry

Dear Richie,

In my local Messenger newspaper of 21 February 2009 an advertisement for Teampoly tanks them promotes them as being 'ECO FRIENDLY' (attachment). This suggests to me they can be recycled at the end of their life. Is this correct?

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"seeking open and honest answers to open and honest questions"

---------------------------------------------
No response
--------------------------------------------

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>torichie@teampoly.com.au
Fri, Feb 27, 2009 subject Re: Eco Friendly enquiry

From: Don Matthews APTCIG
To: Richie Dixon Managing Director Teampoly

Richie,

I am beginning to get annoyed.

Despite already emailing you about this you are quite happy to allow your sales team to continue advertising Teampoly tanks as 'Ecofriendly' (Hills and Messenger Feb 25 2009 attached), suggesting they can be recycled at the end of their life, yet you don't have the courtesy to acknowledge and respond to my request for clarification. Once again, sales and the dollar have become more important than care for the environment and answering questions from a concerned public.

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank concerned Individuals Group
"we're aiming for transparency - and we shoot from the hip"

----------------------------------------------------------
No response. Same advert appeared in 'The New Weekender' April 12
----------------------------------------------------------

THANKYOU FOR YOUR HELP

2009-02-18T18:22:00.001-08:00

Dear Leisa,

It has been very remiss of me not to have got back to you sooner on this. My apologies.

I wanted to thank you for all your efforts in helping to get The Great Australian Poly Tank Debate off the ground. Without your help it would not have been possible.

Your Cease and Desist started the ball rolling then your Court of Law action gave it that much-needed rocket fuel to launch the Debate. This then put the idea in my mind of a Peoples Court. We look forward to the Peoples Court vs Court of Law Debate. I hope your preparations are coming along nicely.

Thankyou one again for your support and to the members of your Association in this historic landmark environmental debate Australia is about to witness.

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"pushing for a cleaner environment"

TO OVERCOME YOUR SHYNESS

2009-02-17T20:43:00.000-08:00

From: Don Matthews
To: Leisa Donlan CEO ARMA
Copy to: undisclosed recipients
16 Feb 2009

Dear Leisa,

You seem rather shy in coming forward to answer my questions.

To help overcome your shyness I am going to post my questions in the form of mini debates. Look at the http://thegreataustralianpolytankdebate weblog . You will see I have created a debate between yourself and me. I have called this 'Debate 1 Please provide evidence' This is where you get a chance to answer my questions to an Australian audience who I am inviting to come along (and bring their picnic rugs, eskys and friends).

It is important this be brought out in the open for public discussion and debate. It is just the beginning of a number of mini debates being planned for this year. I will be engaging in debate with the many others who have contacted me over the past 6 months claiming poly tanks can be recycled. It is fair because we now both have a chance to say what we think and question each other in front of an Australian audience. I can't think of anything fairer, can you?

Don Matthews APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"we're aiming for transparency, and we shoot from the hip"

ALL GO AT APTCIG HQ

2009-02-17T20:39:00.000-08:00

From: APTCIG HQ
To: Ms Leisa Donlan CEO ARMA
Copy to: undisclosed recipients

Dear Ms Donlan,

Gosh, we do hope you know what you are doing.

Your move to take our leader to court over his weblog has sent him into a right tizz.

We fear here at APTCIQ when gets in one of these tizzes there's no telling what he might do. When he received your email he shot out the door under a thundercloud muttering something about "go jump". Concerned that he was going to go and jump off the nearest building we immediately contacted Clinic Ooolaalaa. Luck has it he had just arrived. Phew! Don't know what all the "go jump' was about.

You've not heard of Ooolaalaa? This is the second time our leader has scooted off to University of Maradonga's haven of rest for research-torn scientists to recuperate from shock. The first was a couple of months ago when like a bolt of lightening out of the sky came this email from Research and Development of one of the major, no, not your little fly-by-night polytankers, but a major, I mean MAJOR manufacturer, known right across the country, agreeing with our don that UV degraded poly tanks cannot be recycled. Can you believe that?

We are burning the midnight oil here at APTCIG busily constructing our Peoples Court weblog and gathering together a people's jury from all over the country. It should be an interesting battle - your Court of Law to prove you are right and our don is wrong pitted against our Peoples Court to prove you are wrong and our leader is right. It will be an interesting 'battle' to follow in tandem with the Great Australian Poly Tank Debate

We wish you all the best in your Court of Law action and hope ARMA members will consider their money well spent.

We look forward with relish to our leader's rapid return to once more take up the search for truth and the fight against suppression.

Polly F Leen (Miss)
Secretary
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"we're aiming for transparency, and we shoot from the hip"

Debate 2 Did you or didn't you Leisa ?

2009-01-27T20:20:00.000-08:00

Mr Matthews is beginning not to trust Ms Donlan. He wishes to check up on something he has been told previously.

PFL
Adjudicator
---------------------------------------------

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
toLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>
dateWed, Jan 28, 2009 at 2:34 PM
subject Please provide evidence Leisa 3
mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Leisa,

In your email of 15 August 2008 you said:

fromLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>
toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
dateFri, Aug 15, 2008 at 4:28 PM
subjectRE: I don't quite understand

Dear Don

This website (www.stainlessrainwatertanks.com) is notorious in the industry for its inaccuracies and misleading statements. We have many several formal complaints to them and to both the Office of Fair Trading and ACCC.

Regards
Leisa Donlan, FSAE

Please provide me copies of complaints you claim to have sent to Office of Fair Trading and ACCC.

I will give you till end of business Friday 30 January to respond.

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"we're aiming for transparency - and we shoot from the hip"

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Dear Mr Matthews

I have already responded several times that this correspondence is confidential and I cannot supply you with a copy.

Regards
Leisa Donlan,
FSAE

---------------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
toLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>
Fri, Feb 6, 2009
subject Members are asking

Leisa,

Members of APTCIG are asking why your letters of complaint (and replies) you claim to have sent to ACCC and OFT regarding John Rosenfelder's 'notorious' website need to be kept 'confidential'. Is there something to hide? Or did you not really make any complaints?........ If you, did, please convince us. At present we don't believe you.

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"we're aiming for transparency - and we shoot from the hip"

----------------------------------------------
No response as at 28 Feb (PFL)
-----------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
toLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>
Wed, Feb 25, 2009
subject Debate 2 Did you or didn't you Leisa ?

From Don Matthews APTCIG
To: Leisa Donlan CEO ARMA

Leisa, Before we can move on and make any progress I need to know if you are telling me the truth. At the moment I don't think you are.

You claim to have made complaints to ACCC and OFT over false claims being made by John Rosenfelder on his website. I don't believe you did make any complaints. I have asked to see copies of these complaints and responses from ACCC and OFT. You have countered with "this correspondence is confidential and I cannot supply you with a copy".

I gave you an opportunity to explain to me and my APTCIG members why this information needed to be kept confidential but you have not responded. This has strenghthened our view that you are hiding something.

There are now only two options left:

1. Provide us with a copy of complaints to ACCC and OFT, and their responses

or

2. Admit that no complaints were made.

The sooner we can sort this out the sooner we can move on.

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"we're aiming for transparency - and we shoot from the hip"

PS This email has been posted on the weblog Debate 2 post. A gathering audience is awaiting your response.
---------------------------------------------

Debate 1 Please provide the evidence Leisa

2009-01-27T20:04:00.000-08:00

We are gathered here to witness a debate between Mr Don Matthews (leader APTCIG) and Ms Leisa Donlan (CEO ARMA). Mr Matthews is asking Ms Donlan for evidence and proof of any false statements he has made. Any statements made by both debaters can be verified by going down to the ARMA Leisa Donlan post (Aug 08). Please feel free to make any comments as we go.

PFL
Adjudicator
------------------------------------------------------

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
toLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>
dateWed, Jan 28, 2009 at 2:33
subject Please provide evidence Leisa 1mailed-bygmail.com

Leisa,

In your email of 22 January 2009 you made the statement:

"It is our contention you have made and published false statements"

Please identify any specific statements I have made or published and provide me with evidence which proves they are incorrect .

I will give you till end of business Friday 30 January to respond.

Don Matthews
APTCIGAustralian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"we're aiming for transparency - and we shoot from the hip"
-----------------------------------------------------------

No response as at 5 March
-----------------------------------------------------------

SHOULD I REMOVE MY WEBLOG?

2009-01-26T18:36:00.000-08:00

From: Don Matthews
To: The people of Australia

Should I remove my weblog
http://thegreataustralianpolytankdebate.blogspot.com/?

I have uncovered an industry misleading the public on recycling poly rainwater tanks. ("Can poly tanks be recycled? Yes, they can be completely recycled" says Leisa Donlan CEO of ARMA, on the industry's website). The industry refuses to admit there is a problem and don't want to talk about it. Industry leaders have begun blocking my investigations and Ms Donlan is trying to stop it becoming public.

I have a degree in chemistry, a career in chemistry education and a knowledge of the chemistry of plastics . I have explained many times that sunlight breaks down plastic making it brittle and unable to be remoulded and recycled. They don't want to know. If a breakthrough has occurred since I last touched base with chemistry and a technology now exists to reverse the degradation process please someone, let me know.

I also have confirmation from a major polytank manufacturer that UV degraded plastic cannot be recycled (see 'THE DEBATING FLOOR' post).

Why does Ms Donlan not want this issue raised in public? Because she and her association, ARMA (Association of Rotomoulders Australia) have been telling the Australian public that poly tanks can be recycled. It eases their conscience and makes us all feel environmentally comfortable about poly tanks. As long as people think things are OK, that's what counts.

That an industry can take advantage of an innocent public wanting to do the right thing by the environment for the sake sales and the dollar is a disgrace. The consequence and implications of this becoming public are obvious.

So.

What to you think? Should I remove my weblog? Leave your comment on this post ? post. If you are interested in following progress email me at donmatthews7.gmail.com. I am in the process of organising a national education and awareness campaign and forming the environment action group APTCIG to bring the issue out into the open for public discussion and debate.

-----------------------------------------------

toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>

dateThu, Jan 22, 2009 at 4:16 PM
subjectRE: Make your decision Leisa

“WITHOUT PREJUDICE”

Dear Mr Matthews

It is our contention you have made and published false statements that we believe have had and will continue to have a detrimental effect on the industry while they remain in the public arena. It is our further claim that this has resulted in financial losses to the Association and its member companies through loss of sales. We also believe that your false or edited copies of correspondence to journalists have damaged the reputation of the Association, for which we should be compensated.

The Association requests you remove the following information and content from your website http://thegreataustralianpolytankdebate.blogspot.com/ by close of business on Friday 23rd January, 2009:

Any information regarding our organisation, myself or our staff
Copies of any correspondence between us
Any reference to any of our member companies, their directors or staff
Copies of any correspondence from our member companies
Any claims that “poly” tanks cannot be recycled
And further, that you agree not to author or publish any similar information in the future.

Should you choose not to amend or remove your website by the time listed in our email, the matter will be referred to our lawyers for immediate action to commence. If the website is withdrawn or edited as requested, we will agree not to pursue the matter legally.

Regards

Leisa Donlan, FSAE
Chief Executive Officer
Association of RotationalMoulders Australasia Inc.
PO Box 826, Ipswich Q 4305 AustraliaPhone: +617 3812 1450 Fax: +617 3009 0600Email: ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com Web: http://www.rotationalmoulding.com/

-------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
toLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>
dateFri, Jan 23, 2009 at 5:38 PM
subjectRe: Make your decision Leisamailed-bygmail.com

From: Don Matthews APTCIG
To: Leisa Donlan CEO ARMA

Leisa,

I am unable to remove the weblog. My hands are tied by the search for truth and honesty. All I can do is remove any information which can be proved incorrect. The people of Autralia will now judge for themselves and decide the outcome.

Sorry,

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
"seeking open and honest answers to open and honest questions"
-----------------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
toLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>
Wed, Feb 4, 2009
subject Deadline passed
mailed-bygmail.com

Copy to: All APTCIG members

Dear Leisa,

Remember I gave you a deadline for receipt of the information below? You seem to have forgotten or chosen to disregard my friendly 'warning'. If you decide against I will find out in my own way".

Your choice.

Don Matthews APTCIG
"we're aiming for transparency - and we shoot from the hip"

Leisa,
I have requested the following information on several occasions:
1. Name and email address Managing Director EGR Water. I wish to ask some questions.
2. Name and email address Managing Director Ozpoly. I wish to ask some questions.
3. Name and email address Managing Director National Poly Industries. I wish to ask some questions.
4 Names of ARMA board members. I wish to ask some questions
5. . Copies of complaints you claim to have sent to ACCC and Office of Fair Trading regarding John Rosenfelder's 'notorious' website www.stainlessrainwatertanks.com.

I want to check if you were telling me the truth. Please email requested information.

I will give you until close of business on Fri 30 Jan to make your decision. If you decide against I will find out in my own way.

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group"
seeking open and honest answers to open and honest questions"

---------------------------------------------

toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
Wed, Feb 4, 2009 at 1:22 PM

subjectRE: Deadline passed

Dear Mr Matthews

This matter has now been referred to our lawyers for action as discussed.

Regards

Leisa Donlan, FSAE

Chief Executive Officer

Association of RotationalMoulders Australasia Inc.

-------------------------------------------

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>

toLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>
Wed, Feb 4, 2009

subjectRe: Deadline passedmailed-bygmail.com

Leisa,

My response is as follows:

What has been recorded on the weblog is exactly what people have told me of their own free will. Nothing has been edited or changed. If you can prove by providing evidence to me that something I have said on the weblog is false I will gladly change it. To say evidence is confidential without giving me a valid reason is not acceptable. Sorry

I will debate you on this issue and anything else you say to a national audience and let them be the judge. There is no way to stop the Great Australian Poly Tank Debate from going ahead now. The issue must be raised in public for discussion and debate, End of story. Your Cease and Desist will help launch the campaign. Thankyou.

Don Matthews APTCIG

Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group

----------------------------------------------

fromLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>

toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
Wed, Feb 4, 2009

subject RE: Deadline passed

Mr Matthews

What we can prove, we will now prove in court:

That you edited emails that were sent to you when you published them (we have copies of all the originals).

That you ignored confidentiality clauses contained in emails and then published them in total or in part (we also have copies of those).

That you were provided with proof of recycling via technical content and even the Internationally recognised standard for plastics recycling and that you chose not to publish any of that information.

That you claim to be an expert with a relevant qualification (but you were in fact a publish servant in the education arena).

That we made an attempt to resolve the situation with you (through providing all the information you requested last week).

And that all of your biased claims therefore have damaged my own reputation and that of the industry (and that both ARMA & myself should receive financial compensation for that).

I would recommend you seek your own legal advice before you continue to correspond with me further.

Regards Leisa Donlan, FSAE

Chief Executive OfficerAssociation of Rotational Moulders Australasia Inc.

---------------------------------------------

I have discussed this with APTCIG members and consulted my 'lawyers'.

They see no problems

--------------------------------------------

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>

toLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>
dateFri, Feb 6, 2009

subjectPeoples Court vs Court of Law

Leisa,

I have sought advice from my 'legal' advisers. Their silence suggests I am OK to continue.

So I am.

You are going to try and prove that you are right and I am wrong in a court of law. You will be spending Association member's money in doing this. I am going to prove that I am right and you are wrong in a Peoples Court. I am going to debate you on the weblog to all Australia. The people of Australia will then have all the facts before them. They will then be the judge and jury and decide the outcome. And it won't cost my members a penny.

Don Matthews APTCIG

Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group

"we're aiming for transparency - and we shoot from the hip"

---------------------------------------------

There has been no response back

VANGLOBE BLOCKS INVESTIGATIONS

2009-01-09T19:24:00.000-08:00

Vanglobe blocks investigations into industry poly tank recycling claims

-------------------------------------------------------

Mr Trent Farleigh of the Vanglobe Group has blocked investigations into industry recycling claims by Don Matthews, leader of the newly formed environment group the Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group. Why?

---------------------------------------------------------

From: Don Matthews [mailto:donmatthews7@gmail.com]
8 December 2008
To: Trent Farleigh
Subject: Tony Mercieca

I believe Tony Mercieca no longer works for Vanglobe as technical manager. Do you have a contact email address for him?

Thanks

Don Matthews

---------------------------------------------------------

From Trent.Farleigh@vanglobe.com.au
To donmatthews7@gmail.com
Dec 8, 2008
RE: Tony Mercieca

Hi Don

Your information is right that Tony has left Vanglobe.

Don are you still bagging polyethylene tanks in the market as most of our customers have reported.

Trent Farleigh
National Sales Manager

From Don Matthews
To Trent.Farleigh@vanglobe.com.au
Dec 10, 2008
Re: Tony Mercieca

Dear Trent,

I am pleased you have made contact. I would like to say a few things and ask some questions.

1. Leisa would have informed you that I am conducting a private research project on the recycling UV degraded (spent) tanks, hence my questions to the industry. What began simply out of interest and curiosity has snowballed into a 'can of worms' so it seems. The response of the industry, particularly Leisa Donlan CEO of ARMA has prompted me to investigate this further with some interesting results.

Leisa has probably also told you that I am considering publishing my work. There seems to be quite a deal of interest being shown in it which hopefully will be of benefit to everyone.

2. Could you please give me the name of your new Technical Manager so that I may continue the discussion I was having with your previous Manager. Tony seemed well qualified to help me and hopefully your new replacement will be able to help.

3. Perhaps you could answer the following three questions I am now putting to the industry?

QUESTION 1

Sunlight eventually breaks down plastic making it brittle and lose all its strength. The long-chain polymer molecules which allow plastic to be moulded and give it its strength and rigidity are ruptured by UV light. No amount of added UV stabilizers will prevent the chemical degradation process from occurring. Essentially the plastic disintegrates and loses all its properties. As a result I don't see how it is possible to then remould it into other products. Is the correct?

QUESTION 2

Would I be correct in saying that polyethylene plastic currently being recycled is only clean plastic such as factory scraps, seconds etc and not fully UV degraded (spent) plastic ?

QUESTION 3

If I am not correct (and I am more than happy to be put right) and fully UV degraded plastic is actually being remoulded what evidence is there to support this? What process is being used and what products is the spent plastic being turned into?

Don Matthews

APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
asking questions, recording responses, drawing conclusions

from Don Matthews
to Trent.Farleigh@vanglobe.com.au
cc Leisa Donlan

Dec 16, 2008 at 4:26 PM
Re: Tony Mercieca

Good Afternoon Trent,

As already mentioned I am conducting a research project into the 'recycling' of UV-degraded poly tanks.

I was in the process of discussing this with your Technical Manager Tony Mercieca when he suddenly stopped responding.

You have informed me that he is no longer working for Vanglobe and I have already asked you for the name and email address of his replacement but you have not obliged.

For the second time, please email me this information. I wish to ask some questions.

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
asking questions, recording responses, drawing conclusions

------------------------------------------------------

From Trent.Farleigh@vanglobe.com.au
todonmatthews7@gmail.com

cc ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com

Dec 17, 2008
RE: Tony Mercieca

No

-------------------------------------------------------

From Don Matthews
toTrent.Farleigh@vanglobe.com.au
Dec 17, 2008
Re: Tony Mercieca

Dear Trent,

Is this a wise move?

You are making a deliberate attempt to block the enquiries of a concerned member of the public engaged in a serious research project into industry recycling claims.

You know I am considering publishing my work which eventually will find its way all over Australia. Every response you make is being documented and will be out in the open for public scrutiny.

How you proceed is up to you.

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group

------------------------------------------------------------

There has been no response to this so I am now making my views widely known

JOHN ROSENFELDER

2009-01-09T19:12:00.000-08:00

JOHN ROSEFELDER (Stainless Rainwater Tanks Pty Ltd) Brisbane

Currently there is no way to recycle the spent plastic and this may create a real environmental problem when all the plastic tanks will start to fail in the years to come" (http://www.stainlessrainwatertanks.com/. Questions and answers)

The following is an email sent to me 10 July 2008 by John Rosenfelder who manufactures stainless steel tanks and has done a lot of research into various types of tanks which can be found on his website www.stainlessrainwatertanks.com.

Unfortunately your statement that “manufacturers state that tanks are recyclable” cannot be substantiated.

For such a statement to have any value concise information would be required. Example Mr..... from Poly World, in his position as Managing Director declared on the (date) that tanks manufactured from polyethylene after expire of their service life can be recycle in following manner........... with the end product being used as...........

I would welcome if you could supply such information and I change my website accordingly. Any other statement is meaningless and purely a marketing tool

I am in close contact with (name removed) one of the largest poly tank manufacturer in Australia. My question to him regarding recycling is always answered in a very coy and political way. Essentially nobody in this industry would address the issue that poly tanks are actually failing already, many well before there warranty expires. Therefore if nobody acknowledges this problem in the first place, there is no need to discuss recycling!!!!!

I am not a scientist, but my common sense and every day experience tells me that there is a real issue with recycling spent poly. This statement is based on following reasoning:

1)“spent” poly is a product where the polymers, which give poly the elasticity and strength are destroyed by the exposure to UV rays. To the best of my knowledge there is no technology available to reverse this process.

2) We replaced numerous split and cracked poly tanks, and the shells just remain in the field, some for years. Refuse dumps do not accept them ( here in Brisbane anyway). If there would be any value in this piles of twisted plastic, somebody surely would be happy to accept them.

3) The shell of the black poly tank, shown in my website, resting on a vacant block of land about 4km from the Brisbane CBD for the last 4 years. Well within walking distance of some metal recyclers. If there would be any value at all in this heap of plastic, it would have disappeared years ago.

4)If you take a drive through the country side around Brisbane, towards Gatton you see numerous failed tank just laying in the fields, one of them is actually recycled. It has been spilt in halve and is used as a goat house.

5) If you visit Bunnings you will find garden edging made from recycled plastic, but not poly

ARMA BLOCKS INVESTIGATIONS

2008-12-30T17:22:00.001-08:00

ARMA(Association of Rotomoulders Australia) blocks investigations into poly tank recycling claims.

According to Don Matthews, leader of the Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group (APTCIG), UV-degraded plastic cannot be recycled and the polytank industry is misleading the Australian public on recycling.
In a survey of the industry conducted over the past 6 months he was reassured repeatedly by manufacturers and suppliers that UV-degraded tanks could be recycled at the end of their life. On further questioning and requests for evidence the industry went quiet. APTCIG now wants to put questions to company directors but their association CEO Leisa Donlan seems not to want to go along with this idea.

Over the past months ARMA has put up the following obstructions to APTCIG investigations:

On 11 Aug 2008 I emailed:

Dear Leisa,

In my email of 24 July I asked if you had names and email contacts for key people in member companies of ARMA.Haven't received anything yet. The reason I am asking is that I emailed the following companies from addresses given on their website for assistance in my research into recycling spent poly tanks. No-one bothered to reply or acknowledge receipt of my email. They were definitely received because none were returned. There is no excuse for this and only helps to reinforce my view that nothing is being done. You will appreciate why I am so sceptical.

sales@nationalpolyindustries.com.au 9 July
paulh@duraplas.com.au 15 July
infoworld@polyworld.com.au 17 July
sales@teampoly.com.au 17 July
Brisbane@ozpoly.com.au 17 July
feedback@waterforce.com.au 23 July

Could you please forward names and contact emails for all managing directors of ARMA associated companies. Maybe then I will be able to get a response to my questions.

Thanks,
Don Matthews

No response

-------------------------------------------------------

On 11 Aug 2008 I emailed:

Dear Leisa,

I am interested in finding out more about the work you are doing with Auckland University on finding new ways to make it easier for tank owners to recycle their own tanks at the end of their product life

Thanks
Don

Dear Don

Details of the research currently being undertaken are restricted to ARMA members, as the research is still in progress and funded by the members.

Regards
Leisa Donlan

--------------------------------------------------------

On 27 Aug 2008 I emailed:

Leisa,

Do you have an email address for egr water ? Can't find it on their website.

Don

No response

-------------------------------------------------------

On Dec 17 2008 I emailed:

To: Leisa Donlan CEO Association of Rotational Moulders Australasia
From: Don Matthews APTCIG

Leisa,

Please email names and email addresses for Managing Directors of the following manufacturers.I wish to ask some serious questions on recycling.

National Poly Industries
Ozpoly
EGR Water

If you choose not to release this information without a valid reason I will interpret your actions as a deliberate attempt to block my investigations into industry recycling claims and will make every effort to make my view widely known.

Don Matthews
APTCIG Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
seeking open and honest answers to open and honest questions

No response. As advised I am now making my views widely known.

-------------------------------------------------------

Formit

2008-12-16T20:10:00.001-08:00

Manufacturer
Fountaindale NSW
------------------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
to information@formit.com.au
Dec 17, 2008
subject Recycling spent poly tank
mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Formit,

I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews

-----------------------------------------------------
No response
-----------------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
to infomation@formit.com.au
Jan 7, 2009
: Recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by gmail.com

Could you please acknowledge and respond to my email

Thankyou
Don Matthews

----------------------------------------------------------

Dural Irrigation

2008-12-15T22:54:00.001-08:00

Supplier of Nylex tanks
Dural NSW

---------------------------------------------------------

From: Don Matthews [mailto:donmatthews7@gmail.com]
8 December 2008

To: Erin Eyles

Subject: Recycling spent poly tank

Dear Dural Irrigation,

I notice you sell Nylex poly rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.I am thinking of buying a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help

Don Matthews

---------------------------------------------------------

fromErin Eyles <admin@duralirrigation.com.au>

toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
Dec 9, 2008

RE: Recycling spent poly tank

To our knowledge poly tanks are not recyclable after there completed use. However I encourage you to contact the tank dealers directly, to receive a more detailed and knowledgeable response to your query.

Rapid Plas – 02 43234404 OR FREECALL ENVIRO AUSTRALIA 1800 011000.Tank Master – 08 9274 7000 I hope that helps answer your questions.

Katrine Hermansen

Dural Irrigation Pumps & Power Products

270 New LIne RdDural NSW 2158

Ph No:02 9651 4111 www.duralirrigation.com.au

---------------------------------------

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>

toErin Eyles <admin@duralirrigation.com.au>
Wed, Dec 10, 2008 at 12:18

Re: Recycling spent poly tank
mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Erin/ Katrine,

Thankyou for your honesty. My research agrees with what you are saying - UV degraded polyethylene tanks can't be recycled. This is opposite to what the industry and ARMA keep telling me. I may get back and talk to you later about this.

Don

-------------------------------------------------------

Absan recyclers

2008-12-10T19:31:00.001-08:00

Recycler

----------------------------------------------------------------

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>toabsan@iprimus.com.au
Aug 21, 2008
subjectRecycling spent poly tanks
mailed-bygmail.com

Could you help me with some research I am doing into the recycling of spent poly tanks ? those which have been completely degraded by UV I believe you recycle them in some way to produce more resin for remoudling. I am a little puzzled because to my understanding poly that is completely degraded becomes brittle and loses all its properties making impossible to be remoulded again. How then is it recycled ?

Could you trace the path of a spent poly tank for me from when it reaches youir facility to when it is formed into the final product ? What do you do with the tank? How is the reconstituted resin made? Where does it go to from you? What do they make from it and how is it done? Do you get many spent tanks for recycling?

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews

---------------------------------------------------------
No response
---------------------------------------------------------

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
toabsan@iprimus.com.au
Dec 1, 2008
subject: Recycling spent poly tanks
mailed-bygmail.com

Could you please acknowledge and respond to my email

Thankyou
Don Matthews

------------------------------------------------------

Malcolm Campbell ABSAN PTY LTD
to me Dec 2

Hi Don,

Best to give me a ring and I will talk you through the recycling process.

Regards,
Malcolm Campbell
0402334179

-----------------------------------------------------

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
toMalcolm Campbell ABSAN PTY LTD <absan@iprimus.com.au>
Dec 11, 2008
Re: Recycling spent poly tanks
mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Malcolm,

Thankyou for getting back to me although I am wondering why I didn't receieve any response to my initial email.

I am aware that non-degraded plastic can be recycled. My question relates specifically to UV-degraded plastic. Can this be recycled and remoulded. I suspect it can't. Am I correct?

Don

----------------------------------------------------------
No response
----------------------------------------------------------

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
toMalcolm Campbell ABSAN PTY LTD <absan@iprimus.com.au>
Wed, Dec 17, 2008
Re: Recycling spent poly tsnks
mailed-bygmail.com

Malcolm,

Please respond.

Don

-------------------------------------------------------------
No response
-----------------------------------------------------------

The following email came in response to the 'ARMA blocks investigation into recycling claims' email I sent out to the industry. The phone call he refers to was not in response to my initial enquiry (which was ignored) but in response to a reminder some 3 1/2 months later. Go up to the top of this post and check for yourself. The tanks he is referring to are non-degraded tanks. He has never answered my questions on recycling UV-degraded tanks. Why? Because degraded plastic can't be recycled. (If anyone can prove this incorrect please do so)
-------------------------------------------------------------

FromMalcolm Campbell ABSAN PTY LTD <absan@iprimus.com.au>
toDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
ccsales@nationalpolyindustries.com.au,
infoworld@polyworld.com.au,
sales@teampoly.com.au,
Brisbane@ozpoly.com.au,
feedback@waterforce.com.au
Fri, Jan 9, 2009
subjectRe: ARMA blocks investigations into recycling claims
mailed-byiprimus.com.au

I don't know who you are but you are totally ignorant and misinformed.

I responded to your first email asking you to ring me and discuss the recycling of end of life tanks but you did not. Tanks can be and are being recycled. Our Company does it regulary.

Malcolm Campbell
B.Eng. Phd.Absan Pty Ltd
08 84478847
-----------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
to Malcolm Campbell ABSAN PTY LTD <absan@iprimus.com.au>
Wed, Feb 25, 2009
subject Debate 4 I would like an apology Malcolm
mailed-bygmail.com

From: Don Matthews APTCIG
To: Malcolm Campbell Absan

Malcolm,

I do not appreciate the following comment you have made about me:

"I have no idea who you are but you are totally ignorant and misinformed" (9 Jan 2009)

It would seem a good idea to find out who I am before making such comments.

I would like an apology.

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly tank Concerned Individuals Group
"valueing courtesy and respect"

PS This email has been posted on the weblog http://thegreataustralianpolytankdebate.blogspot.com and forms the basis for Debate 4.
We await your response.
----------------------------------------------

CAMPAIGN BLACKPHONE HOTLINE

2008-11-30T20:22:00.000-08:00

0 4 _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

We regret to advise the virus affecting servers (which is preventing our emails being delivered to polytank industry recipients) has flown across the ether and infected Blogger. This has affected our input and we are only able to post one digit per week. Sorry bout that.

Polly F Leen (Miss)
Secretary
APTCIG

ADMIRING SUPPORTER GO DON

2008-11-30T20:21:00.000-08:00

To: APTCIG members
From: APTCIG HQ
Re: Admiring supporter go don

An admiring supporter has just written in with this ditty about our don. Had to rush it out to you.

A gardener don matthews I'm told
In a campaign decidely bold
Did gather together his birds of a feather
And knocked our polytankers out cold

So I'm told.

("admiring supporter" - go don)

Polly F Leen (Miss)
Secretary
APTCIG

WE ARE CALLING FOR

2008-11-30T20:20:00.001-08:00

AUSTRALIAN POLY TANK CONCERNED INDIVIDUALS GROUP

We are calling for:

1. The polytank industry to publically acknowledge that UV-degraded (spent) poly tanks cannot be recycled.

2. The polytank industry to publically acknowledge that when they have been saying "Can poly tanks be recycled? Yes, they can be completely recycled" they were only referring to non-UV degraded polyethylene.

3. The setting up of a non-biased website to explain about the various types of tanks available and their pros and cons.

APTCIG
looking for the most positive
and least painful way forward

WE'RE AIMING FOR TRANSPARENCY

2008-11-30T20:07:00.000-08:00

AUSTRALIAN POLY TANK CONCERNED INDIVIDUALS GROUP

We're aiming for transparency

- and we shoot from the hip

The polytank industry has thrown up a smokescreen aroung the recycling of millions of tanks they are planning to put into the environment which can't be recycled.

Tanks are already breaking down many well before their warranty even expires. Our Australian sun is harsher than anticipated. Do they want to talk about it? No. All they want to do is bury their head in the sand and hope the problem goes away. It won't. And neither will we.

Reln Plastics

2008-11-04T20:06:00.001-08:00

Manufacturer
Ingleburn, NSW

-------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews to sales@reln.com.au Nov 5, 2008
Recycling spent poly tank mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Reln Plastics,

I have been reading with interest about your new poly rainwater tank.
Can you tell me whether at the end of its life when it is fully degraded by UV if it can be recycled or not ? I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a poly tank.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews
-------------------------------------------------
from Kristy Pilsworth to Don Matthews Nov 7, 2008
RE: Recycling spent poly tank

Hi Don

Thank you for your enquiry. Yes, the tank can still be recycled when fully degraded by UV.

Regards,
Kristy Pilsworth Customer Service Officer
14B Williamson Road, Ingleburn N.S.W. 2565
P: 1300 137 356 F: 1300 137 358
-----------------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews to Kristy Pilsworth Nov 10, 2008
Re: Recycling spent poly tank mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Kristy,

It is interesting you say UV degraded tanks can be recycled. I have just had information from another source which says they can't be ???

Are you sure your information is correct ?

I would like to look into this further. Could you direct me to the person who told you this or the source of your information so that I can ask a few more questions.

Thanks,
Don
----------------------------------------------------
from Owen Luke
to donmatthews7@gmail.com
cc Kristy
date Nov 13, 2008
FW: Recycling spent poly tank

Hi Don,

Please feel free to give me a call. 9605-9999

Kind Regards,
Owen Luke
------------------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews to Owen Luke Nov 13, 2008
Re: FW: Recycling spent poly tank mailed-by gmail.com

Hi Owen,

Are you able to fill me in via email?

Don
------------------------------------------------------------
from Owen Luke to Don Matthews
Nov 14, 2008 RE: FW: Recycling spent poly tank

Hi Don,

It’s easier to talk about this as the subject is highly technical and I can then get a better understanding of your concerns. Either give me a call (9605-9999) or send me your phone number and I’ll call you.

Kind Regards,
Owen
-----------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews to Owen Luke Nov 17, 2008
Re: FW: Recycling spent poly tank mailed-by gmail.com

Hi Owen,

I sort of know what's going on. I have a chemistry degree and taught the subject (including the chemistry of plastics) for many years.

I think the issue could be sorted out with answers to the following questions:

(QUESTION 1)
Sunlight eventually breaks down plastic making it brittle and lose all its strength. The long-chain polymer molecules which allow plastic to be moulded and give it its strength and rigidity are ruptured by UV light. No amount of added UV stabilizers will prevent the chemical degradation process from occurring. Essentially the plastic disintegrates and loses all its properties. As a result I do not see how it is possible to then remould it into other products. Is the correct?

(QUESTION 2)
Would I be correct in saying that polyethylene plastic currently being recycled is only clean plastic such as factory scraps, seconds etc and not fully UV degraded (spent) plastic ?

(QUESTION 3)
If I am not correct (and I am more than happy to be put right on this) and fully UV degraded plastic is actually being remoulded what evidence is there to support this? What process is being used and what products is the spent plastic being turned into?

If you are able to provide any answers it would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Don
---------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>to sales@reln.com.au
Mar 5, 2009 subject Reln MD details request mailed-bygmail.com

Hi Kristy,

Do you have the name and email address of Reln's Managing Director?

Thanks
Don Matthews
--------------------------------------------
from Sales <sales@reln.com.au> to Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
Mar 5, 2009 RE: Reln MD details request

Hi Don

The Managing directors name is Nigel Nattrass. His email is nigelnattrass@reln.com.au

Regards, Kristy Pilsworth
Customer Service Officer
14 Williamson Road, Ingleburn N.S.W.
2565P: 1300 137 356 F: 1300 137 358 E: sales@reln.com.au W: www.reln.com.au
-------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com> to nigelnattrass@reln.com.au
bcc Owen Luke <owenluke@reln.com.au>,Sales <sales@reln.com.au>
Tue, Mar 24, 2009 subject Recycling UV degraded poly tankmailed-bygmail.com

To: Nigel Nattrass Managing Director Reln Plastics

Dear Nigel,

There is an opinion going around that UV-degraded poly tanks cannot be recycled. That sunlight breaks the plastic down until it becomes brittle, falls apart and loses all the properties which enable it to be remoulded and recycled. As Managing Director of Reln Plastics I would be interested in your view on this. If degraded plastic cannot be recycled I see a potential environmental problem ahead when millions of degraded tanks will need disposing of at the end of their life.

Regards
Don Mattthews
---------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tonigelnattrass@reln.com.au
Apr 1, 2009 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Nigel

Do you have a response for me?

Don
------------------------------------
from Don Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>tonigelnattrass@reln.com.au
Apr 6, 2009 at 10:48 Re: Recycling UV degraded poly tank mailed-bygmail.com

Nigel,

I am still waiting .

Don Matthews
--------------------------------

James Porteous ECOS magazine

2008-11-02T16:23:00.000-08:00

Managing Editor
ECOS: Australia's magazine on sustainability
------------------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to ecos@csiro.au
Oct 29, 2008
Environmental concerns re spent poly tanks
mailed-by gmail.com

To: James Porteous (editor EOS)
From: Don Matthews (gardener)

Dear James,

I would like to try and arouse your interest in a potential environmental problem which is beginning to bother me..

It concerns the rapidly increasing number of plastic poly tanks being added to the environment and the issue of their disposal at the end of their working life. Personally, I feel we should be trying to reduce the amount of plastic entering the environment not increasing it. As this is not likely to change in the foreseeable future we must ensure that what poly tanks are added can be recycled at the end of their working life, yes?

Ask anyone in the business of manufacturing or selling poly tanks and they will tell you without fail they can be recycled. The industry's ARMA (Association of Rotatational Moulders Australasia) website www.watertanks.org.au says " Can poly tanks be recycled? Yes, they can be completely recycled". Most Australians would accept this as being correct and so feel environmentally comfortable about purchasing a poly tank. Unfortunately, this appears to be far from the truth. I believe the industry have no idea how UV-degraded (spent) tanks are going to be recycled.

Over the past months I have been directing questions to various sections of the industry to find out what they would tell an environmentally concerned member of the public about recycling spent poly tanks. The results have been interesting and have all been documented on the weblog http://thegreataustralianpolytankdebate.blogspot.com . I then followed this up with further questions and asked for evidence to back up their claims. The result? - one big deafening silence. Their recycling claims appear to be simply marketing tools to take advantage of the current water crisis and make us all feel environmentally comfortable with poly tanks.

For the moment I am just asking questions and recording results on the weblog. Next year I would like to see a national awareness campaign launched to raise this issue with the Australian public. It needs to be brought out into the open for discussion and debate. The industry is just burying their head in the sand and while no-one asks questions they will continue to sell their tanks and perpetrate what I believe is misleading information about recycling.. In the not-too-distant-future millions of spent tanks will be lying around. If the recycling issue is not resolved I can see us heading for a major environmental pollution problem.

I am looking for people to join an environmental action group APTCIG (Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group) to take the matter further. The industry, ARMA and its CEO Leisa Donlan will not take any notice of one individual calling for the issue to be addressed and misleading statements to be removed from industry websites.

If you are new to the weblog http://thegreataustralianpolytankdebate.blogspot.com start at the first post in July "The journey begins". This will explain how it all started, then work your way up the posts and discover the positive efforts being made by the industry to fulfill ARMA's statement "Can poly tanks be recycled? Yes, they can be completely recycled".

Feel free to pass this email on to anyone you feel may be interested in being put on a mailing list for updates on progress.

Regards,

Don Matthews

"You are on the money. Congratulations - and how can I help?" (Don Burke)

-----------------------------------------------------

"James.Porteous@csiro.au"
to me
Oct 29

Hello Don,

Thanks for your email, and congratulations on your working through of this issue to do with poly tanks. Thanks also for alerting me to it.

Based on your correspondence here (and pending more investigation and a right of reply from the tank 'recyclers' themselves), I think it very important that this be raised as a matter of integrity - and a clear illustration that, despite seeming stated intentions, there are still clear (premeditated?) mistakes being made where environmental responsibilities are being agreed on. If your evidence holds true, it also shows up a gaping hole in Federal and state government processes for assessing the environmental suitability of product classes, and of assess the onus on manufactures to take responsibility for their end of life circumstances. It is no doubt quite easy to calculate the sorts of plastic volumes we are talking about here.

I would be very happy to give you the opportunity to write this up in Ecos, to support your cause, and to provide a platform for national further elucidation about this issue. We could aim for the Feb-March issue (copy due in December). You would be paid for your work. How does that sound?

Regards,

James.

Managing Editor
ECOS: Australia's magazine on sustainability
www.publish.csiro.au/ecos
PO Box 1139 Collingwood VIC 3066
Ph +61 (0)3 9662 7604 Fax +61 (0)3 9866 7600

----------------------------------------------

Don Matthews
to James.Porteous

Hello James,

Thankyou for your reply. You have certainly given me something to think about now! I have been happily plodding away by myself emailing the industry from my comfortable little cocoon. Now you have given me the opportunity to go public and do what I really want to see happen. It's the next big jump and certainly what APTCIG is looking for. Yes, you will probably have some copy in December (when is deadline?) but I will have to adjust to this......

Cheers

Don

APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group

-----------------------------------------------

from "James.Porteous@csiro.au"
to donmatthews7@gmail.com
Nov 5, 2008 4:07 PM
RE: Reply from Simon Gough Gough Plastics
signed-by csiro.au mailed-by csiro.au

Thanks Don.

Best of luck with the continuing investigations - I think with this type of enquiry you'll need to use a fair degree of diplomacy given the types of questions involved.

I would prefer not to be copied in on all the developments if you don't mind - I have enough coming in as it is. It would be best if you can run the investigations under your campaign, and then get back to me at the end once you have the picture painted. At that point we can then work out what to cover in the article.

By all means get in touch if I can be of help with anything specific to do with communications.

Thanks, and, again best of luck with it.

James Porteous

Managing Editor

ECOS: Australia's magazine on sustainability

-------------------------------------------------------------
Following information received
------------------------------------------------------------

From: Louise Berecic [mailto:louise@polarity.com.au]
Sent: Wednesday, 5 November 2008 4:33 PM
Subject: Nylex water tank media release

Please find attached media materials which may be of interest to you and your readers. With regulations being introduced at all levels of government and across peak industry bodies, it is important to ensure manufacturers of water tanks comply with local and international standards and do not give false impressions.

Nylex is one of the first in Australia to be granted two internationally recognised standards, tangible evidence of their commitment to quality, continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.

Please contact myself, Anna Shortt or Erica Plompen on the number below for further information.

Kind regards,

Louise Berecic.

Office Manager

Polarity Consultants

45 Dove Street

Richmond, VIC 3121

Tel: 03 9429 7166

---------------------------------------------------------------

Download the original attachment

For Immediate release 6 November 2008
NYLEX TANKS AMONG WORLD’S BEST

Nylex sites manufacturing polyethylene water storage tanks are one of the first in Australia to have been granted two individual globally-recognised standards, testimony to Nylex’s commitment to meet and maintain world standards for quality, continuous improvement and customer satisfaction.

The Type Test certification to AS/NZS 4766:2006 – Polyethylene storage tanks for water and chemicals, and accreditation to the ISO9001:2000 – Quality management systems requirements standard were issued for Nylex sites in Pakenham, Seaford, Ingleburn, Crestmead and Bundaberg.

Mr Stephen Perry, Business Development Manager for Nylex VIC said the accreditation was tangible proof that their tanks met world best standards and not just an arbitrary claim.

“Consumers should look for the relevant licence number on the tank, that is issued when the tank of their choice has undergone the rigorous testing process and achieved the global industry benchmark,” Mr Perry said.

“Nylex wanted to provide this assurance for its consumers given the renewed focus on the increasing role of water tanks in water conservation, evidenced by recent political and environmental debates.

“Storing water and other chemicals needs to be done in a conscientious manner and this accreditation will give architects and designers, builders and developers and plumbers the confidence to use our products easily, safely and for the long term.

“In addition, they are ideal for anyone anticipating potential policy changes by government and local councils who may decide to include the standards as part of any rebate scheme.”

Achieving the internationally-recognised standards requires great fortitude and commitment by companies who undergo the rigorous testing procedures.

“Accreditation means that we have had our products tested to provide the surety of a reliable and dependable final product,” Mr Perry said.

“That includes the initial design of size, wall and floor thicknesses and holding capacity to confirm structural soundness right through to the quality of materials and fittings used.

“They have also been tested to ensure they are suitable for their intended purposes by looking at the workmanship employed to ensure our products are free of any faults and down to whether they have used the appropriate materials.”

Nylex polyethylene water storages are UV stabilised to provide maximum protection against harmful UV rays and excludes sunlight to prevent algae growth.

Nylex maintains the quality of its products by testing each and every tank it manufactures.

“Every tank is verified using ultrasonic measurements to ensure we continue to meet the standards set out in our licence,” Mr Perry said.

“We take a sample out, keep it, refrigerate it and then impact test it at negative 40 degrees to ensure excellent strength and superior crack resistance.”

-end copy-

For further information:

Anneliese Shortt

Polarity Consultants

anna@polarity.com.au

03 9429 7166

Photo caption: Nylex water tanks are among the world’s best with the recent granting of two internationally recognised accreditation standards.

------------------------------------------------------------

Rota Moulding WA

2008-10-21T17:27:00.000-07:00

Manufacturer
Midvale WA
-----------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to sales@rotamoulding.com.au
Oct 16, 2008
Recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Rota Moulding WA,

I notice you manufacture poly rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.I am wanting to buy a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help
Don Matthews

---------------------------------------------

from Troy Coulthard
to Don Matthews
Oct 16, 2008
RE: Recycling spent poly tank

Don,

The Tank can be recycled by various company’s in Perth, the problem you have is thinking sunlight will break down the plastic, While some inferior and imported plastics breakdown, the material that all manufactures use in WA use will last for 20 -30 and more

RegardsTroy Coulthard
Sales and Marketing,
Rota Moulding WA Pty Ltd - Plaka Boats14
Artello Bay Rd Midvale WA 6056
PH: 08 9250 1125 Fax: 08 9274 3688 Mobile: 041 791 6724 www.rotamoulding.com.au www.plakaboats.com

----------------------------------------------

Coastline Plastics

2008-10-21T17:17:00.000-07:00

Manufacturer
Undanderra NSW
-----------------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to sales@coastlineplastics.com.au
Oct 16, 2008
Recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Coastline Plastics,

I notice you manufacture poly rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.I am wanting to buy a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help

Don Matthews

-----------------------------------------------

from De Rooy
to Don Matthews
Oct 17, 2008
Re: Recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by optusnet.com.au

Yes. Polyethylene is a recyclable product, though at present It is very difficult to find such a recycler to take your tank. however maybe by the time it does break down it would be more common.. Our tanks are expected to last well over 20 years (that's just the warranty/guarantee.
I have personally seen polyethylene tanks that are 23 years old and they do not look even faded let alone are starting to become brittle. So it will be long time before you need to seek a recycler.

Michelle De Rooy
Coastline Plastics Water Tanks
http://www.coastlineplastics.com.au/

-----------------------------------------------

Acqua Poly Tanks

2008-10-21T17:04:00.000-07:00

Manufacturer
Brassall QLD
-----------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to info@acquapolytanks.com.au
Oct 16, 2008
recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Acquapoly Tanks,

I notice you manufacture poly rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.I am wanting to buy a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help

Don Matthews

------------------------------------------------

Clark Tanks

2008-10-21T16:57:00.000-07:00

Manufacturer
Bathurst NSW
----------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to info-moama@clarktanks.com.au
Oct 16, 2008
Recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Clark Tanks,

I notice you manufacture poly rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.I am wanting to buy a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help

Don Matthews

------------------------------------------------

from David Pope
"donmatthews7@gmail.com"
Oct 16, 2008
subject RECYCLE
mailed-by awspl.com.au

Don,

Yes they do recycle poly, the problem being it is now produced with UV protection and we expect the tanks to last approx 40 years before they break down..

Regards,

David Pope
Sales Manager (Southern Region)
CLARK TANKS (MOAMA)

----------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to David Pope DPope@awspl.com.au
Oct 23, 2008
subject Re: RECYCLE
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear David,

Thanks for your reply but I am having a problem with your statement "Yes they do recycle poly". I have some further questions. Perhaps you can help me sort this out?

Sunlight eventually breaks down plastic making it brittle and lose all its strength. The long-chain polymer molecules which allow plastic to be moulded and give it its strength and rigidity are ruptured by UV light and no amount of added UV stabilizers will eventually prevent this chemical degradation process from occurring. Essentially the plastic disintegrates and loses all its properties. As a result I don't see how it is possible to then remould it into other products. Is the correct? (QUESTION 1)

Would I be correct in saying that any current recycling of polyethylene only involves clean plastic such as factory scraps, seconds etc and not fully UV degraded spent plastic ? (QUESTION 2)

If I am not correct (and I am more than happy to be put right on this) and fully UV degraded plastic is actually being remoulded what evidence is there to support this? What process is being used and what products is the spent plastic being turned into? (QUESTION 3)

Why I am concerned is that in the not-too-distant future millions of spent tanks will be lying around waiting to be disposed of. If the problem of their recycling is not resolved we are likely to have a major environmental pollution problem on our hands.

Could you please respond to these three questions or pass them on to anyone in your organisation who can, or alternatively direct me to someone who can.

Thanks

Don Matthews

---------------------------------------------

Atlas Tanks

2008-10-15T21:52:00.000-07:00

Manufacturer
Kunda Pk QLD

---------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to atlas@atlastanks.com.au
Oct 15, 2008
Recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Atlas Tanks,

I notice you manufacture poly rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am wanting to buy a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help

Don Matthews

--------------------------------------------------

from Atlas Tanks
to Don Matthews
16 Oct 2008
Re: Recycling spent poly tank

Dear Don

Thank you for contacting Atlas Tanks.

Our poly tanks are manufactured from a UV stabilised polyethylene, so it will not break down in the sunlight, however, should you want to dispose of the tank at any time we do send our plastic waste to be recycled and we would be happy to help you with this.

Kind regards

Lisa Mitchell
Atlas Tanks
Telephone: 07 5445 1844
Fax: 07 5445 1733
www.atlastanks.com.au

---------------------------------------------

Superior Tanks

2008-10-15T21:13:00.001-07:00

from Don Matthews
to info@superiortanks.com.au
Oct 15, 2008
Recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Superior Tanks,

I notice you manufacture poly rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am wanting to buy a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help

Don Matthews

--------------------------------------------

from jamie
to Don Matthews
Oct 15, 2008
Re: Recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by bigpond.com

Hi,
Yes they can be but they wont brake down for at least 30 years.
Regards jamie

------------------------------------------

Gough Plastics

2008-10-14T19:53:00.000-07:00

Manufacturer
Townsville QLD
---------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to salestsv@gough.com.au
Aug 28, 2008 3:35 PM
Recycling spent poly tanks
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Gough Plastics,

I am doing some research into the recycling of spent poly rainwater tanks - those which have been completely degraded by UV and need to be disposed of. Recycling these tanks has now become a top priority, for as you are probably aware, tanks are failing much earlier than expected, many well before their warranty even expires.

Leisa Donlan CEO of the Association of Rotational Moulders Australia (ARMA) states on the industry website www.watertanks.org.au "can polty tanks be recycled? yes then can be completely recycled" and also "the material is 100% recycled"

She has also also confirmed to me that "spent tanks are currently recycled" and that "rotational moulders gather the material, cut it to a size to be recycled and then arrange for it to be collected by the recyclers"

From all this it would appear recycling spent tanks is well under control. It is good to hear the industry is showing concern for the environment by already recycling tanks it is putting into our environment at a rapidly increasing rate.

As a rotational moulder could you please tell me what Gough Plastics is doing in this area? What process is being used to recycle the tanks and what products are they being turned into?

Thanking you in anticipation for help with my research.

Don Matthews

---------------------------------------------

from Simon Gough
to donmatthews7@gmail.com
Aug 29, 2008 8:24 AM
RE: Recycling spent poly tanks
mailed-by gough.com.au

Hi Don,

Always interested in helping people out who have an interest in the environment and the future of our planet.

Would you mind telling me who you work for and or the purpose of your research?

We are typically doing what you have already outlined below.

Regards,

Simon Gough.

-------------------------------------------
from Don Matthews
to Simon Gough
Sep 1, 2008 3:27 PM
Re: Recycling spent poly tanks
mailed-by gmail.com

Thanks for your reply Simon. Will get back to you on your questions when I have a little more time to spare.

Don

--------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to Simon Gough
Oct 15, 2008
subject Recycling spent poly tanks
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Simon.

As mentioned earlier I am doing some research into the recycling of spent poly tanks and would like to get some clarification on the following:

Sunlight eventually breaks down plastic making it brittle and lose all its strength. The long-chain polymer molecules which allow plastic to be moulded and give it its strength and rigidity are ruptured by UV light. No amount of added UV stabilizers will prevent the chemical degradation process from occurring. Essentially the plastic disintegrates and loses all its properties. As a result I don't see how it is possible to then remould it into other products. Is the correct? (QUESTION 1)

Would I be correct in saying that polyethylene plastic currently being recycled is only clean plastic such as factory scraps, seconds etc and not fully UV degraded (spent) plastic ? (QUESTION 2)

If I am not correct (and I am more than happy to be put right on this) and fully UV degraded plastic is actually being remoulded what evidence is there to support this? What process is being used and what products is the spent plastic being turned into? (QUESTION 3)

Thanks for your help in this.

Don Matthews
----------------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to sg@gough.com.au
cc Leisa Donlan
Oct 29, 2008
Recycling spent poly tanks
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Simon,

I have been waiting for a response. Is there a problem?

Don

------------------------------------------------------

from Simon Gough
to Don Matthews
Oct 31, 2008
RE: Recycling spent poly tanks

Hi Doug,

There is no problem other than you have not responded to my questions.

1. Who are you

2. Who do you work for

3. What is the purpose of your research.

Regards,

Simon

---------------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to Simon Gough
Nov 3, 2008 11:29 AM
Re: Recycling spent poly tanks
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Simon

In answer to your questions:

1. Who are you? Don Matthews

2. Who do you work for? No-one

3. What is the purpose of your research.? To find out if UV-degraded tanks can be recycled.

Don

--------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to Simon Gough
cc Leisa Donlan
Nov 3, 2008
Re: Recycling spent poly tanks
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Simon,

With respect, I do not see who or what I am has any relevance to answering what seem very simple questions if there no problems with recycling UV-degraded (spent) poly tanks. To summarize our past communications:

In my email of 28 August I said:

"I am doing some research into the recycling of spent poly rainwater tanks"
"Leisa Donlan CEO of the Association of Rotational Moulders Australia (ARMA) states on the industry website www.watertanks.org.au "can polty tanks be recycled? yes then can be completely recycled" and also "the material is 100% recycled"

"She has also also confirmed to me that "spent tanks are currently recycled" and that "rotational moulders gather the material, cut it to a size to be recycled and then arrange for it to be collected by the recyclers"

Your reply to this was:

"We are typically doing what you have already outlined" (29 Aug)

thus confirming that you currently recycle UV-degraded (spent) tanks, yes?

My next email of 15 October then asked three more detailed questions:

"Sunlight eventually breaks down plastic making it brittle and lose all its strength. The long-chain polymer molecules which allow plastic to be moulded and give it its strength and rigidity are ruptured by UV light. No amount of added UV stabilizers will prevent the chemical degradation process from occurring. Essentially the plastic disintegrates and loses all its properties. As a result I don't see how it is possible to then remould it into other products. Is the correct? (QUESTION 1)"

" Would I be correct in saying that polyethylene plastic currently being recycled is only clean plastic such as factory scraps, seconds etc and not fully UV degraded (spent) plastic ? (QUESTION 2)"

"If I am not correct (and I am more than happy to be put right on this) and fully UV degraded plastic is actually being remoulded what evidence is there to support this? What process is being used and what products is the spent plastic being turned into? (QUESTION 3)"

Your reply to this was (3 Nov):

"The short answer is yes, Tanks can be recycled.
If you wish to get highly technical I think that their is sufficient information out there that is freely available on recycling of plastics in general. If this is not sufficient i think your next course of action should be to contact a polymer scientist."

While I appreciate you may not be able to answer the technical question 1, having already told me you recycle UV-degraded (spent) tanks your answer to question 2 should have been a simple 'no' and question 3 would have gone something like ' we at Gough plastics shred UV-degraded tanks into small pieces and grind it into a powder. More UV stabilizers are added and then we remould the regrind into non-food containers eg cattle water tanks."

Where is the evidence to back up your claim "The short answer is yes, Tanks can be recycled" ? It would appear to be non-existent.

I shall be including your reponse in my research report

Thankyou for your assistance.

Don Matthews

----------------------------------------

from Simon Gough
to Don Matthews
cc Leisa Donlan
Nov 3, 2008
RE: Recycling spent poly tanks
mailed-by gough.com.au

Hi Don,

With respect.

I see no problem with you saying.

My name is Don Matthews, i work fro XYZ company.

My interest in recycling poly tanks is _______

If you cant see where i am coming from then i really can’t help you.

It is common courtesy in the business community to introduce yourself.

Regards,

Simon

------------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews ago)
to Simon Gough
Nov 5, 2008 12:12 PM
Re: Recycling spent poly tanks
mailed-by gmail.com

Simon,

With all due respect,

I have said it once but I will say it again.

My name is Don Matthews, and I do not work for any company, but as you seem desparate that I do I can say I am attached in some way to a little-known but large clongomerate 'don matthews enterprises (DME)' and as I keep reiterating I am trying to get to the bottom of this "Can poly tanks be recycled? Yes, they can be completely recycled" puzzle.

I hope my introduction meets with the accepted standards of "common courtesy in the business community" and that you are now able to give some open and honest answers on an issue which is of concerned to many environmentally concious Australians.

Thanks

Don

PS don't worry, DME has no interest in getting into poly tanks

-------------------------------------------------

from Simon Gough to Don Matthews
cc Leisa Donlan
Nov 5, 2008 1:04 PM
RE: Recycling spent poly tanks
mailed-by gough.com.au

Hi Don,

We do recycle tanks, so far up to about 15 years old into non critical application, not water tanks.

Its just very strange that you keep pursuing members of the rotational moulding industry for information when there is published information out there from researchers.

As i said I am not in a position to give your polymer science answers.

I think it best if you require in depth information to contact a polymer scientist.

Sorry i can t be of more help to you.

Regards,

Simon Gough

-----------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to Simon Gough
cc Leisa Donlan
Nov 5, 2008 2:13 PM
Re: Recycling spent poly tanks
mailed-by gmail.com

Hi Simon,

Thanks for your help.

Don

-----------------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to Simon Gough
cc Leisa Donlan ,
"Jennifer Marohasy (AEF)"

date Nov 10, 2008 2:57 PM
subject Re: Recycling spent poly tanks
mailed-by gmail.com

To: Simon Gough (Gough Plastics)
From: Don Matthews

Dear Simon,

The reason I am 'pursuing' the industry is because I am sceptical UV degraded poly tanks can be recycled.

My chemistry background suggests it is not possible and repeated calls to a materials scientist at a major recycler and supplier of resin to the industry to answer my questions have been ignored.

Questions to another 'materials scientist' from another major recycler received the 6 minutes-later reply "The process in which the material is reconstituted is proprietory knowledge and is therefore not given out to the public. Sorry".

This just confirms my scepticism.

Of more concern is an industry reassuring an environmentally concerned public that UV degraded poly tanks can be recycled yet seem unable to provide any supporting evidence. This is a worry.

Gough Plastics have provided a perfect example.

To begin with you told me "We are typically doing what you have already outlined below " but on further questioning it appears you have had no experience with recycling UV degraded water tanks, are unable to refer me to anyone who has, nor have you been able to direct me to any specific research being done on this area

Is is any wonder I am a sceptical and say "I have been misled"

Don Matthews

------------------------------------------------------------

Bushmans

2008-10-14T19:32:00.000-07:00

Manufacturer
NSW
-------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to sales@bushmans.com.au
Oct 13, 2008 4:08 PM
Recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Bushman Tanks,

I notice you sell poly rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am wanting to buy a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help

Don Matthews

------------------------------------------

from "Todd, Craig"
to Don Matthews
Oct 14, 2008 12:44 PM
RE: Recycling spent poly tank

Don

We actually manufacture the rainwater tanks.

The material we manufacture the tanks with is 100% recyclable.

You will be looking at about 40 to 50 years before you need to recycle your tank.

Best Regards,
Craig

Craig Todd
Sales and Technical Support

Bushmans Group Pty Ltd
PO Box 7001
Blacktown NSW 2148
Australia
Ph (02) 8884 4111(Extn 125)
Fax (02) 8814 8437
Mb 0438 225 181
Free Call: 1800 00 88 88
email ctodd@bushmans.com.au

------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews to "Todd, Craig"
Oct 15, 2008 12:17 PM
Re: Recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Craig,

Thanks for your reply. Just want to clarify a couple of things.

When you say "The material we manufacture the tanks with is 100% recyclable" I was meaning about recycling this plastic after it has been completely degraded by UV. I don't mean clean plastic factory scraps, seconds etc. Is this fully UV degraded plastic recyclable? How is it being recycled and what is it being turned into?

I would like to think I could get 40-50 years from a poly tank but your tanks only have a 10 year warranty suggesting a life of only 15-20 years. What are you basing an expected life of 40-50 years on ?

Thanks

Don

----------------------------------------------

from "Todd, Craig"
to Don Matthews
Oct 15, 2008
RE: Recycling spent poly tank

Don

Some of the recycled material gets turned into the sewerage storage vessel on caravans, I no of one company that is turning the recycled plastic in to power poles and another into decking.

I’m not sure of the process and how it works.

We give a 10 year guarantee on our tanks that is for the next 10 years if you install our tank to our recommendations will fix or replace that tank for the next 10 years.

Now I can spend a million dollar on a house and I would not get coverage like that.

Even if I bought a new car I would not coverage like that they give a 2 year warranty if you are lucky and there is a difference between a warranty and guarantee.

Best Regards,
Craig

Craig Todd
Sales and Technical Support

Bushmans Group Pty Ltd
PO Box 7001
Blacktown NSW 2148
Australia
Ph (02) 8884 4111(Extn 125)
Fax (02) 8814 8437
Mb 0438 225 181
Free Call: 1800 00 88 88
email ctodd@bushmans.com.au

---------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to "Todd, Craig"

Craig,

1. I would like to find out more about how plastic is being recycled turned into power poles and decking. Could you give me the names of these companies so I can contact them. Are you sure it is UV degraded plastic they are using ?

2. You seem to have missed the point of my second question. I was asking what evidence you are basing your claim of a 40-50 year life expectancy for a Bushman tank on? A 10 year guarantee suggests an estimated life of 15+ years which is nowhere near what you are claiming.

Don

--------------------------------------
No response

Vanglobe Recyclers

2008-10-14T19:17:00.000-07:00

Recycler and supplier of resin to the industry

----------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews to support@vanglobe.com.au
Aug 21, 2008 4:12 PM
Recycling spent poly
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear sir,

Do you accept spent poly rainwater tanks for recycling - ones that have been completely degraded by UV. ?

Don Matthews

-----------------------------------------

from "Tony.Mercieca@vanglobe.com.au"
to don matthews
Aug 22, 2008
RE: Recycling spent poly

Hi Don,

Thanks for your enquiry.

We do recycle Rotomoulded products obtained from the field – usually these are returned via our moulder base and are cut up into manageable sections of approx 300mmx300mm.

A few Q’s,

Where is the tank(s)
What size / weight of resin is there to recycle
Is it whole or is it in sections
Has the tank failed or is it still in service.

Depending on the status and history of the tank, there may be an opportunity to use this vessel as the subject of a research project that I am considering.

Feel free to contact me should you discuss the options.

Best regards

Tony

Tony Mercieca B.App.Sci(Chem)
Technical Manager
M: (61) 0427 763 465
Ph: 61 (3) 8361 8838
Fax 61 (3) 8361 8445
tony.mercieca@vanglobe.com.au
Vanglobe Sales – 1800 888 141
Visit us at www.vanglobe.com.au

-----------------------------------------------------

Comment - mention of a research project suggests recycling spent poly could still be in unknown stage?

------------------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to "Tony.Mercieca@vanglobe.com.au"
Sep 1, 2008 3:44 PM
Re: Recycling spent poly
mailed-by gmail.com

Hi Tony,

Thanks for your reply. It's good to be taking to an applied chemist. You may be able to answer some of my questions at last.

From my chemistry background I understand the UV breakdown of plastic ruptures the polymer chains causing them to lose all their properties which make plastic a plastic. Therefore what's left after UV competely breaks it down cannot be remoulded again because there are no polymer chains for which to hold it all together.

You mentioned something about about a research project you were considering which interests me (from a chemists point of view). When I was at university there was no technology available to reverse the UV depolymerization process. Is there something available now to do this? It would certainly be a major breakthrough.

At present I am just making an initial enquiry into the chemistry side of things. I understand regrind is used to recycle plastic at the moment but is completely UV degraded polyethylene suitable for this purpose?

I may have access to such tanks further down the track depending on how things develop.

Look forward to hearing from you

Don

-------------------------------------------

No response

-------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to "Tony.Mercieca@vanglobe.com.au"
Oct 15, 2008 11:44 AM
Re: Recycling spent poly
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Tony,

I have not had any response to me last email yet. Could you please help me sort this out by providing some answers to the following questions:

Sunlight eventually breaks down plastic making it brittle and lose all its strength. The long-chain polymer molecules which allow plastic to be moulded and give it its strength and rigidity are ruptured by UV light. No amount of added UV stabilizers will prevent the chemical degradation process from occurring. Essentially the plastic disintegrates and loses all its properties. As a result I don't see how it is possible to then remould it into other products. Is the correct? (QUESTION 1)

Would I be correct in saying that polyethylene plastic currently being recycled is only clean plastic such as factory scraps, seconds etc and not fully UV degraded (spent) plastic ? (QUESTION 2)

If I am not correct (and I am more than happy to be put right) and fully UV degraded plastic is actually being remoulded what evidence is there to support this? What process is being used and what products is the spent plastic being turned into? (QUESTION 3)

Thanks

Don Matthews

--------------------------------------------

No response

-------------------------------------------
fromTrent.Farleigh@vanglobe.com.
todonmatthews7@gmail.com
Dec 8, 2008
RE: Tony Mercieca

Hi Don

Your information is right that Tony has left Vanglobe.

Don are you still bagging polyethylene tanks in the market as most of our customers have reported.

Trent Farleigh
National Sales Manager

M: 0439 763 469T:
07 3271 3955F:
07 3271 4532T:
1800 888 141 (toll free)

-------------------------------------------------------

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
toTrent.Farleigh@vanglobe.com.au
Wed, Dec 10, 2008
Re: Tony Mercieca
mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Trent,

I am pleased you have made contact. I would like to say a few things and ask some questions of you,

1. Leisa would have informed you that I am conducting a private research project on the recycling UV degraded (spent) tanks. hence my questions to the industry. What began simply out of interest and curiosity has snowballed into a 'can of worms' so it seems. The response of the industry, particularly Leisa Donlan CEO of ARMA has prompted and inspired me to investigate this further with some very interesting results. Leisa has probably also told you that I am considering publishing my work. There seems to be quite a deal of interest being shown in it which hopefully will be of benefit to everyone.

2. Could you please give me the name of your new Technical Manager so that I may continue the discussion I was having with your previous Manager. Tony seemed well qualified to help me and hopefully your new replacement will be able to help.

3. Perhaps you would like to a have a go at answering the following three questions I am now putting to the industry:

QUESTION 1
Sunlight eventually breaks down plastic making it brittle and lose all its strength. The long-chain polymer molecules which allow plastic to be moulded and give it its strength and rigidity are ruptured by UV light. No amount of added UV stabilizers will prevent the chemical degradation process from occurring. Essentially the plastic disintegrates and loses all its properties. As a result I don't see how it is possible to then remould it into other products. Is the correct?

QUESTION 2
Would I be correct in saying that polyethylene plastic currently being recycled is only clean plastic such as factory scraps, seconds etc and not fully UV degraded (spent) plastic ?

QUESTION 3
If I am not correct (and I am more than happy to be put right) and fully UV degraded plastic is actually being remoulded what evidence is there to support this? What process is being used and what products is the spent plastic being turned into?

Don Matthews
APTCIG

Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
asking questions, recording responses, drawing conclusions

------------------------------------------------------
fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>
toTrent.Farleigh@vanglobe.com.au
ccLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>
Tue, Dec 16, 2008
e: Tony Mercieca
mailed-bygmail.com

Good Afternoon Trent,

As already mentioned I am conducting a research project into the 'recycling' of UV-degraded poly tanks.

I was in the process of discussing this with your Technical Manager Tony Mercieca when he suddendly stopped responding. You have informed me that he is no longer working for Vanglobe and I have already asked you for the name and email address of his replacement but you have not obliged.

For the second time, please email me this information. I wish to ask some questions.

Don Matthews
APTCIG
Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group
asking questions, recording responses, drawing conclusions

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

fromTrent.Farleigh@vanglobe.com.au

todonmatthews7@gmail.com
ccldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com
Wed, Dec 17, 2008

RE: Tony Mercieca

----------------------------------------------------

fromDon Matthewdonmatthews7@gmail.com

toTrent.Farleigh@vanglobe.com.au
Wed, Dec 17, 2008

Re: Tony Mercieca

mailed-bygmail.com

Dear Trent,

Is this a wise move?

You are making a deliberate attempt to block the enquiries of a concerned member of the public engaged in a serious research project into industry 'recycling' claims.

You know I am considering publishing my work which eventually will find its way all over Australia. Every response you make is being documented and will be out in the open for public scrutiny.

How you proceed is up to you.

Don Matthews

APTCIG

Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group

looking for honest answers to open and honest questions

-----------------------------------------------------------

fromDon Matthews <donmatthews7@gmail.com>to"trent. farleigh"<Trent.Farleigh@vanglobe.com.au>
ccLeisa Donlan <ldonlan@rotationalmoulding.com>
Wed, Feb 25, 2009 subject Debate 5 Trent, please explainmailed-bygmail.com

From: Don Matthews APTCIG To: Trent Farleigh Vanglobe Recyclers

Trent,

Leisa has suggested I talk to a material scientist. I have asked to talk to yours but you have said "no". Can you please explain to me and my members why?

Don Matthews APTCIG

Australian Poly Tank Concerned Individuals Group

"we're aiming for transparency - and we shoot from the hip"

PS This email has been posted on the Debat 5 'Trent, please explain' post. A gathering audience is awaiting your response.

-------------------------------------------

Action Tanks

2008-10-14T19:00:00.000-07:00

Supplier
Noosaville QLD
--------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to info@actiontanks.com.au
Oct 13, 2008 3:59 PM
recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Action Tanks,

I notice you sell poly rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am wanting to buy a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help

Don Matthews

--------------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to info@actiontanks.com.au
Oct 29, 2008
: recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Action Tanks,

I have been waiting for a response. Is there a problem?

Don Matthews

----------------------------------------------------

from Jeremiah Myo-Min
to donmatthews7@gmail.com
date Oct 29, 2008
subject Fwd: recycling spent poly tank

Hi Don,

We are having some issues with our network server and some emails were lost.

Answer to your question are as follow;

Poly Tank Industry recycle plastic by re-milling process. Such recycled plastics were used in making of different products eg. Troughs, Gardens Tools, Plants containers and more.

Every material has a life that will eventually be broken-down completely if you do not attempt anything to recover it.

In relation to poly tanks, Action Tanks issue 10 Years warranty on the its product which is in-line with the industry warranty. End user must maintain the tank system (yearly) and check the tank strength on regular basis (after 10 years).

At some point, the tank will be no longer strong enough to hold the liquid due to stress factors over a long period. At that point, you will need to replace the tank. This could possibly be 25-30 years later depending on the conditions.

Bottom line is that your tank will need replacing well before the material was broken down completely. End of the life for poly tank is when the tank is no longer able to perform its function (hold water), NOT at the point when the tank was completely broken down. At the end of its life, your poly tank can still be recycled.

I hope this answer your question.

Regards,

Jeremiah Myo-Min
Manager (Quality Assurance, Compliance & Regulations)
P + 61 7 5442 4242
F + 61 7 5442 4240
E jeremiah@actiontanks.com.au
www. actiontanks.com.au

---------------------------------------

Tuff Tanks

2008-10-12T23:47:00.000-07:00

Manufacturers and distributors
Queensland

---------------------------------------

from Don Matthews
to sales@tufftanks.com.au
Aug 27, 2008
Recycling spent poly tanks
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Tuff Tanks,

I am doing some research into the recycling of spent poly rainwater tanks - those which have been completely degraded by UV and need to be disposed of. Recycling these tanks has now become a top priority, for as you are probably aware, tanks are failing much earlier than expected, many well before their warranty even expires.

Leisa Donlan CEO of the Association of Rotational Moulders Australia (ARMA) states on the industry website www.watertanks.org.au "can polty tanks be recycled? yes then can be completely recycled" and also "the material is 100% recycled"

She has also also confirmed to me that "spent tanks are currently recycled" and that "rotational moulders gather the material, cut it to a size to be recycled and then arrange for it to be collected by the recyclers"

From all this it would appear recycling spent tanks is well under control. It is good to hear the industry is showing concern for the environment by already recycling tanks it is putting into our environment at a rapidly increasing rate.

As a rotational moulder could you please tell me what Tuff tanks is doing in this area? What process is being used to recycle the tanks and what products are they being turned into?

Thanking you in anticipation for help with my research.

Don Matthews

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No response. Try another approach.
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from Don Matthews
to sales@tufftanks.com.au
Oct 13, 2008
Recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by gmail.com

DearTuff Tanks,

I notice you sell poly rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.

I am wanting to buy a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help

Don Matthews

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Still no response
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from Don Matthews
to sales@tufftanks.com.au
Oct 29, 2008
: Recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Tuff Tanks,

I am waiting for a response. Is there a problem?

Don Matthews

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from "sales@tufftanks.com.au"
to Don Matthews
Oct 29, 2008
RE: Recycling spent poly tank

Hi Don,

Apparently it can be done, the polyethylene has a guaranteed life of 20 years (according to the manufacturers) and they inform me that there are a couple of places that will ‘shred’ the tank. It is then taken and turned back into a “2nd Grade” powder that can be used for other items.

Thank you for your enquiry

Regards

Michelle

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Eco-Plus

2008-10-01T20:58:00.000-07:00

Supplier and installer
Adelaide SA
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from Don Matthews
to carol@eco-plus.com.au
Oct 2, 2008 1:28 PM
Recycling spent poly tank
mailed-by gmail.com

Dear Carol at Eco-Plus,

I notice you supply and install poly rainwater tanks and wondered if you could help me.I am wanting to buy a poly tank but would like to know if it can be recycled when it eventually is broken down by sunlight. I would like to think I was doing the right thing by the environment in buying a tank which can be recycled at the end of its life.

Thanks for your help

Don Matthews

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