In 2009 District 14 HQ office began its ‘Green Office’ program. With a list of 20 actions to implement, the Green Team set out to make changes around the office to reduce their carbon footprint.
Three years down the track they have not only achieved that list of 20, they’ve added another 20 and in the process receiving Bronze Certification through the Waste Wise program in 2010.
The Waste Wise program developed by Sustainability Victoria and managed by Metropolitan Waste Management Group offers 3 levels of certification to Government Departments. It recognises a commitment to reducing their waste and maximise the efficient use of valuable resources in their day-to-day operations. This year District 14 HQ’s intention is to improve their level of achievement and commitment to obtain Silver certification.
“Management and staff buy-in is an integral part of a successful green office” said Tina Marchington, Green Office Team member. “We’ve revamped our bin system, added a compost bin, procure green stationery and recycle all our office paper and cardboard.”
“Office staff got on board with the changes. They’re simple yet effective tools to reduce our waste diversion, and something everyone can do at home."
Susan Beatty has been a strong advocate of the Green Office program and has been on the team since its inception. “We have systems in place to identify, track and manage the data collected from our efforts. This allows us to look at ways in which we can improve how we do things and implement behavioural change in the process.”
“The Waste Wise program in conjunction with Darlene Pentland has given District 14 HQ the tools, knowledge and support to make these changes possible. I understand that due to the success of the Waste Wise program, District 13 have now signed up for the challenge.”
And the Keep Cups are a way to further reduce their waste diversion. Designed to phase out single use coffee cups, the Keep Cups were recently presented to the office staff. A little thank-you from CFA’s Manager of Environmental Sustainability- Darlene Pentland in appreciation of D14 HQ effort in helping leading the way to a sustainable CFA.
Article written by Fiona Mallia, CFA Sustainability Officer
Fiona has been seconded to the role of Sustainability Officer at HQ East Burwood until June 30 2012. Fiona is a leading advocate for environmental sustainability within CFA and comes to this role from District 14 where she has worked tirelessly to integrate Green Office initiatives into normal business practice.
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