PURE As Can Be

(1/6/98)

The photographic industry has pioneered new grounds in Australia by being the first to introduce self-regulation to protect the environment.

With concerns over the possible polluting effects of waste photographic chemistry being disposed of through the waste water system, PICA approached water boards around the country to work out practical ways of dealing with the management of waste photographic chemistry disposal.

The foundation chairman of PURE (Photographic Uniform Regulations for the Environment), PICA's Executive Director, Paul Curtis, said that the vast majority of water authorities welcomed PURE's initiatives.

"Although we might make our living through the photographic industry, the PURE board all recognise that we are all first and foremost only temporary occupiers of this territory. The board subscribes to the adage of protecting the environment for our children while offering sustainable development for the future.
Unfortunately there are still some authorities that have either a lack of understanding or other agendas. However, we are pleased to report that now the vast majority of water authorities around Australia not only endorse but applaud PURE's actions. Chief amongst these is the Sydney Water authority, which is currently trialing PURE's Code of Practice as a casebook study for other industries."

For full details of the PURE Code, please contact the PICA website at photoimaging.com.au or phone its special consultant Brian Winch on 03 9421 0310.