Environmental programs
Working proactively with business & government
Much of Queensland has experienced water shortages and energy supply issues. These issues, along with the Federal Government's proposed emissions trading scheme (ETS), have the potential to limit industrial growth and increase input costs. As resource use comes under increasing scutiny, it is important that your business can demonstrate progress in minimising your resource usage - continuous improvement.
The process for developing your plan for continuous improvement to demonstrate your ability to reduce your inputs requires benchmarking your current production processes, and identifying opportunities for efficiency gains.
Chamber of Commerce & Industry Queensland's Business Sustainability team is committed to promoting our members' achievements in minimising their environmental impact, and the responsible use of scarce resources. We also work with all levels of government in order to ensure sustainable outcomes for our members and the community. Our outcome-driven approach is recognised by government, and we therefore deliver a number of government programs to assist Queensland business reduce their environmental impacts and save money on input costs.
Programs
Greenhouse Challenge Plus
Chamber of Commerce & Industry Queensland has delivered the Greenhouse Challenge program to Queensland businesses since around 1995 . We deliver this program on behalf of the Federal Government, Australia Greenhouse Office. The Greenhouse Challenge is a voluntary program that assists members to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save money.
Greenhouse Challenge Plus enables Australian companies to form working partnerships with the Australian Government to improve energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. That's a big plus for business and for all Australians.
Greenhouse Challenge Plus is designed to:
- reduce greenhouse gas emissions
- accelerate the uptake of energy efficiency
- integrate greenhouse issues into business decision-making
- provide more consistent reporting of greenhouse gas emissions levels.
For further information about the Greenhouse Challenge visit www.greenhouse.gov.au/challenge.
ClimateSmart 2050 - Queensland Climate Change Strategy
Tackling climate change is a long-term agenda. Queensland has already been proactive but we need to do more. ClimateSmart 2050 establishes Queensland's long-term goals and provides a platform for the government, community and industry to move to a low-carbon future.
ClimateSmart 2050 is a $414 million investment to deliver the next steps in Queensland's climate change response. The strategy includes a range of initiatives targeting greenhouse gas reductions in the areas of energy, industry and residential/community use.
For details and further information visit the ClimateSmart 2050 website.
Environmental Protection Agency
Chamber of Commerce & Industry Queensland works closely with the Queensland Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and in particular the Sustainable Industries Division. The Sustainable Industries Division's task is to assist Queensland industry to invest, compete and profit from sustainability. Chamber of Commerce & Industry Queensland works with the EPA to provide business and industry with:
- On-going industry education via workshops, seminars and forums
- Identifying efficiency and environmental solutions that provide financial savings
For further information visit the Environmental Protection Agency website at www.epa.qld.gov.au.