Sustainable business: CCIQ’s ecoBiz program extended into ninth year
CCIQ is leading sustainable business practices in Queensland to accelerate the adoption of immediate and long-term business benefits through the free ecoBiz program.
The program, funded by the Queensland Government, was this month extended into its ninth year, allowing CCIQ to continue supporting businesses on their sustainability journey.
Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland (CCIQ) CEO Heidi Cooper said adopting sustainable business practices was an operational priority for businesses aiming to reduce production waste and save on utility expenditure.
“Through the ecoBiz program, CCIQ is leading the adoption of sustainable business practices in Queensland to accelerate immediate and long-term business benefits,” Ms Cooper said.
“Sustainable businesses are ready businesses; ready to meet supply chain needs, ready to be competitive for procurement opportunities, ready to export and ready to maximise a sustainable Olympics legacy.
“Adopting sustainable business practices is an operational and strategic priority for Queensland businesses.
“We have seen a significant increase in the interest and uptake of sustainable business practices, for not only cost savings but also to realise market driven opportunities and growth.
“A focus on a sustainability-led transformation of the economy will accelerate the transition to sustainable energy and support our businesses’ and communities’ viability and opportunities now and into the future.”
The ecoBiz program allows businesses like Guymer Bailey Architects in Toowong to implement budget friendly recommendations provided by ecoBiz sustainability experts to save money and increase efficiencies towards becoming more sustainable.
Since joining the ecoBiz program in 2014, Director Phil Jackson and the team have reduced energy intensity by 55%, water intensity by 24% and have continued their impressive effort in waste stream separations and diverting waste from landfill.
“It’s great to see the ecoBiz program extended into its ninth year which enables us to continue supporting Queensland businesses on their sustainability journey,” Ms Cooper said.
"Phil and the team's committment to sustainability is commendable and an example of leading business sustainability in Queensland.
“We’ve helped businesses in every industry, of multiple sizes and in every part of the state.
“More than 90% of businesses who have taken part in the program recorded an increase in productivity and savings.”
Ms Cooper said a business sustainability focus in Queensland responded to increasing global demand for products and services with a low or offset environmental footprint.
“A sustainable focus ensures we’re making a positive impact on the environment we all depend on to do business,” Ms Cooper said.
“It responds to increasing global demand for products and services with a low or offset environmental footprint.
“For example, we know events like the 2032 Olympics will create billions in procurement opportunities for projects over the next 10 years and we’re expecting sustainable businesses which produce goods and services with low or offset carbon footprint will be more competitive.
For details on the ecoBiz program and to register your interest see ecobiz.cciq.com.au