It’s a little-known fact but I have some things in common with Australia’s renowned scientist Dr Karl Kruszelnicki.

Yes, that Dr Karl. The one who likes wearing colourful shirts and has degrees in physics and maths, biomedical engineering, medicine and surgery.

As well as having worked as a medical doctor at the kids’ hospital in Sydney, he’s been a tutor, filmmaker, car mechanic, labourer and a taxi driver – as well as a roadie with Bo Diddley and Chuck Berry.

That’s what I share with him – having been a taxi driver, not a roadie. And we both remember having looked up to watch Sputnik arc across the night sky all those years ago, announcing man’s first tentative steps towards space travel.

OK, so the link is a little tenuous ... but I eagerly accepted the chance to meet the man who started presenting Great Moments in Science on Double J, as the youth radio station was then known, to pay his way through medical school.

The occasion was the launch of Investa Property Group’s new office at its Bellflower estate, which showed that sustainability makes good business sense. The company was proud to announce its successful rehabilitation of Sippy Creek, after years of degradation from cattle grazing.

An unexpected benefit was the carbon off-setting that has been achieved at the site. Right from the day of purchase, the carbon off-sets will be more than Investa’s impact in developing the land.

Carbon build-up is the major issue contributing to global warming, yet the easiest to deal with, Dr Karl told us. In turn, warmer oceans melt the polar icecaps and speed up the process.

Yet just like the tobacco companies, the motto of industry has been “doubt is our product’’.

Dr Karl said the human effect on global warming cannot be underestimated.

“We have had more influence on the environment than ever before. If we are clever, global warming will balance the next ice age. But I don’t expect we will be that bright.’’

He said politicians needed to look forward instead of just concentrating on being re-elected and that nuclear was not the natural option for our energy needs it was being made out to be. Indeed, 10% of tidal energy in the world is happening to the north of Australia and there is wind power to consider.

While some people may say solar power is not cost-effective, that is a myth, Dr Karl said. Especially in places such as Brisbane, Sydney and Perth.

Solar panels and hot water systems, proper eaves on roofs, rainwater tanks, eco-friendly light globes ... even dishwashers, if used correctly, can be more efficient than hand washing. And get a good fridge.

It’s not just one thing – it’s a whole range of things that can help.

Oh, and the Order of Australia Medal recipient had some chilling recollections of his taxi driving days. Not only was a fellow cabbie stabbed to death for the sake of $70 but Dr Karl had been beaten unconscious and his female passenger raped by a group of young men.

Something to think about if you encounter road rage while looking for a parking spot.