Sustainability Advantage
A major Program assisting business to manage energy and resource use and achieve greater sustainability will be facilitated by the Northern Inland Sustainable Business Network (NISBN) in the New England North West region.
The Sustainability Advantage Program, delivered by Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water NSW (DECCW), helps business streamline resource management and improve energy efficiency. By committing to improving sustainability, business can be better placed to reduce the impact of rising power, water and gas costs.
NISBN is a not-for-profit organisation that links like-minded businesses and helps them to access government grants and incentives.
“Increasingly, businesses need to be proactive in preparing for increased energy and resource costs. Businesses involved in the Sustainable Advantage Program have a competitive advantage and are better prepared for further price hikes,” NISBN Project Officer Lauren Zell said.
“Over 400 medium to large-scale businesses from across NSW have been participating in the Program for the past three years and have saved approximately 28,000 tonnes of carbon, with combined savings of around $8 million a year.
“Participating businesses receive expert direction by professionals and technicians in supply chain management, performance management, energy saving and resource efficiency. It is also a networking opportunity for like-minded businesses to share ideas and experiences in power, water, logistics, transport and fuel savings.
In addition to eco-outcomes and cost savings, the Sustainability Advantages Program acknowledges participating businesses through a recognition scheme - an important tool in addressing consumer demands for businesses to be cleaner and greener.
“Sustainability Advantage Members can progress from bronze to platinum partner and can display a logo demonstrating their commitment to sustainable practice for 12 months.”
AusIndustry’s Regional Manager for Northern and Central NSW, Tim Cotter is part of the NISBN Steering Committee and said the Networks’s efforts in encouraging businesses to be environmentally conscious have resulted in improved employee morale and marketing advantages for business.
“Since the Northern Inland Sustainable Business Network was launched in 2009 around 50 businesses have joined,” Mr Cotter said.
“I would like to see more of the region’s businesses get involved with NISBN and take advantage of the valuable expertise offered through the Sustainability Advantage Program.”
Businesses in the New England North West region of NSW looking to join the Sustainability Advantage Program or the Northern Inland Sustainable Business Network can do so by calling 02 6768 2492 or visiting the website:
www.nisbn.org.au.
Further information on the program is available in the attached brochure or at the DECCW website:
www.environment.nsw.gov.au/sustainbus/sustainabilityadvantage.htm
