EcoBizCheck Blog
10 Ways To Go Green At Work
Greener homes are in the spotlight these days, but what about the other places where many of us spend huge chunks of our time.. our offices? Some simple changes of habit can save energy and resources at work, and these small steps can be multiplied by persuading the powers that be at your workplace to adopt environmentally friendly (and often cost-effective) policies.
Two Views of the Value of Sustainability
Sustainability is all the rage as many significantly-sized companies are evaluating it to maximize economic benefits and seeing how it can fit into company plans. We in the environmental community believe that sustainability programs almost always deliver a good return on investment (ROI) because of the long-term economic benefits of reducing waste, water, energy use, etc.
The Carbon Tax and Your Business
THE Senate today voted to pass the carbon tax by 36 votes to 32. There was applause from supporters in the public gallery as the nine Greens voted with Labor to pass the package of 18 bills. Putting a price on carbon has been a long and difficult process, with two previous attempts defeated in Parliament. (ABC News)
The 7 Keys to Low-Carbon Business Innovation
With rising energy consumption, a lingering economic malaise and a dearth of climate policy, companies that contrive ways to grow while reducing the carbon impact of their products can not only survive, but flourish despite uncertain times.
Corporate Sustainability More Well-Rounded, but Still Ad-Hoc, Survey Finds
Most companies are making sustainability integral to their strategy, but still struggle to integrate it into their supply chain and budget, according to the sixth annual McKinsey Global Survey.
Find Out About Digital Publishing at Magazine Week!
The international and local publishing, advertising and marketing industry will converge on Sydney in November for the inaugural Magazine Week. A number of workshops on digital publishing will be held over the week. Topics will include how to exploit social media and the opportunities presented by new platforms such as the iPad and smartphones.
Hotel Sustainability: Moving Into a New Phase
Over the past decade, hotel companies have implemented programs to reduce the waste generated and the energy used in their daily operations. Many have been successful in saving both resources and money as well as attracting environmentally conscious guests; however, the industry as a whole has yet to make sustainability an integral part of its strategic plans.
Local Support May Be the Key to a Sustainability Project
When looking to gain public support for your sustainability project, developing a grassroots campaign may be your best strategy.
EcoBizCheck to Meet Tech Industry Leaders, Pitch for Investment at Silicon Valley Connect 2011 This Week
Entrepreneurs Ready to Explore Global Commercialization Opportunities as Part of ANZA Technology Networks Gateway to the US Program
Why Should You Attend the Sustainability Course?
In the very near future sustainability is going to become a huge part of everyday life. It is going to dramatically change the way we work and do business. Sustainability is going to become a key point in all industries over the coming years. It's not a passing fad; it's here to stay and it's becoming a long-term business interest.
Green offices worth up to 10% more
Office blocks with solid green credentials can be worth up to 10 per cent more than other office buildings, new research shows.
Sustainable Business - What's in it for you?
EcoBizCheck invites Gold Coast Business Owners and business environmental professionals to a sustainability forum from 4:30-7pm 19 October, 2011 at the Prana Center in Nerang.
The Green Consumer
With publicity surrounding the threat of global warming on the rise, environmental consciousness is at an all-time high.
Green: The Evolution From A Color To A Movement
Have you ever wondered how the green movement began? How green went from being just an ordinary color to becoming a symbol of environmental consciousness? Or maybe how people came to realize the hazards of our careless actions towards nature and the environment?
The Benefits of Green Business
With publicity surrounding the threat of global warming on the rise, environmental consciousness is at an all-time high. Here are some reasons why businesses should implement sustainable practices and implement "Green Business".
Please Join with us in Standing up to Coal Seam Gas Mining!
Carcinogenic chemicals have just been detected in 5 water bores around the QLD town of Dalby. We received the following from GetUp a not for profit organization centered around economic fairness, social justice and environmental sustainability. GetUp was researching coal seam gas mining last week and met Debbi a young mother from the area of Dalby. Read Debbi's story below and please sign the petition to stop coal seam gas mining until it's properly regulated.
A Low Carbon Breakfast with BDO National Leader, Dylan Byrne
EcoBizCheck will be holding a fully catered sit down breakfast at Victoria Park Function Center on 8 September with BDO, Carbon Specialist Dylan Byrne, National Leader, Environmental Sustainability.
Don't be Brainwashed by the Greenwash!
Green-washing is a form of spin in which green PR or green marketing is deceptively used to promote a company's products or services as environmentally friendly when in fact they are not.
The Carbon Tax: Let's Keep Australia's Reputation Clean
On a per capita basis, according to the OECD, Australia is the third largest polluter in the world - that's a bit embarrassing. All over the globe we have positive reputation, which promotes our beautiful land and our laid back living the carbon tax only further encourages this.
Green, Cost Effective Marketing
When marketing your business it is important to reduce costs and risks of waste. Here are some methods that will maximize your return and minimize the strain on the environment
Sustainability Course Comes to Melbourne!
We will be bringing our two (2) day Corporate Sustainability Course to Melbourne from 3-4 October 2011.
Sustainability Course: Expand Your Knowledge
We recently hosted our first Sustainability Officer Course in Sydney at Bradman Corporate. A comprehensive two (2) day course covering; environmental issues, trends, regulations, green change management and critical implementation.
10 Tips to Go Green Around the Office Quickly
Although there are many more actions you can take around the office to become truly sustainable, here are ten actions that your office can implement quickly and easily to reduce energy and waste.
82 Percent of Consumers Buy Green, Despite Economy
Four out of five people say they are still buying green products and services today which sometimes cost more even in the midst of a U.S. recession, according to a new study commissioned by Green Seal and EnviroMedia Social Marketing.
Super Green Consumers Indulge Taste for Bling
Super green consumers those engaged in the highest amount of environmentally-friendly activities are top earners with a penchant for luxury items, according to a report from Scarborough Research.
Big Brands Go Green!
As consumers take a greater interest in green behavior, brands like IKEA and Coca-Cola are investing largely in sustainability practices.
How Can We Stop Corporate Pollution
Ruth Ostrow from the Weekend Australian comments on the daily corporate pollution that plagues the environment
Green or Mean?
Why are free-range eggs so much more successful than carbon offsets? Do we really care more about chickens than the future well being of humanity?
How to Obtain a Higher NABERS Rating
Corporate Australia is firmly embracing sustainable office buildings but isn't it frustrating that your star rating is not only based upon exterior factors but also includes the behavior of your tenants, something that you cannot control? Well we have a solution to help you obtain a higher rating at no cost to building owners or tenants.
Are Paperless Offices a Pipe Dream?
666 ABC's Canberra presenter, Louise Maher, interviews EcoBizCheck CEO, Tony Hall, re:the government's latest policy of using e-readers to view documents to aim for the ultimate goal of achieving a paperless office.
Making Green Change Easy
Research consistently reports that personal and organizational change efforts fail 50% to 80% of the time. EcoBizCheck's Change Management Specialist and Bond University Professor, Dr. James Carlopio, explains why.
Australia's Carbon Tax
While siding with various actions groups is not EcoBizCheck's general corporate philosophy, it was very interesting to read an email we received this morning from Get Up! promoting the benefits of Australia's new carbon tax as they see it. What do you think about this new tax and what do you see as the benefits and areas for improvement? Or do you see a completely alternative system?
'Green' market almost doubles to $21.5 billion, but consumers still wary
Rising living costs does little to discourage conscious consumers. The market for sustainable products and services has almost doubled in just four years despite rising living costs and signs of a declining appetite from the Australian community for a price on carbon, new research shows.
Should You Attend a Corporate Sustainability Officer Course?
Not sure of what the latest environmental issues, trends, regulations and solutions are and how they apply to your business? Then attending a two day comprehensive corporate sustainability officer course could be the perfect solution for your green business champion or leader.
Bureau Veritas Alliance
Bureau Veritas, the world's leading certification body and EcoBizCheck have finalized an agreement whereby Bureau Veritas will jointly distribute EcoBizCheck's self assessed online environmental office certification program alongside the ISO14001 standard.
EcoBizCheck Client PCA People Finalists in Telstra's Small Business Awards
PCA People are Gold certified EcoBizCheck clients and are finalists in this year's Telstra Awards in two categories, ACT Small Business and Social Responsibility. Here we find out more about what Social Responsibility plans they have in place.
How to Green your Business with EcoBizCheck
A short and sharp video on how your business can quickly and easily become green your business.
EcoBizCheck versus ISO 14001
EcoBizCheck versus ISO 14001 - what the differences are and how they can work together.
The Latest Trends in Business and Sustainability
A YouTube video of EcoBizCheck's, Managing Director, Nicholas Bernhardt, discussing the latest trends in business and sustainability.
A Green Light for Green Training
Whatever your view on climate change - and, frankly, it's hard to believe there are still naysayers on that topic - there is little argument that as the world population rockets to nine billion by 2040 there is going to be a scramble for scarce resources.
EcoBizCheck to Host Melbourne Sustainability Forum
On 9 June from 4-7pm, EcoBizCheck will be hosting a sustainability forum in the Melbourne CBD for local businesses. With four senior corporate business leaders presenting relevant and actionable information, be sure to book a seat so your business does not miss out!
Waikato Chamber of Commerce Demonstrates Practical Actions to Become More Sustainable
Through an amazing team effort , that included their landlords, the Waikato Chamber of Commerce used the EcoBizCheck's process to enable them to demonstrate practical and effective measurements to achieve silver certification.
Why Businesses Need to Take Sustainable Action Now
Creating Growth and Revenue Opportunities by Going Green
It's time to stop thinking about sustainability as a green option. Sustainability is a core strategic competence for businesses in 2011 that want to be around for the long term and create extra revenue generating and cost saving activities.
This article includes a short video presentation from iOnline, discussing why becoming a more sustainable company has helped them reduce costs and increase profits.
Energy saving now on the front burner: carboon trading
SPIRALLING energy prices, new regulations and a coming price on carbon are forcing property owners, managers and listed property trusts to look seriously at their energy usage and levels of investment into energy efficiency solutions.
How are You Celebrating Earth Day, 22nd April 2011?
Earth Day, 22nd April 2011, is focused on the recognition of the power of millions of individual actions. Dubbed as A Billion Acts of Green, with a goal to highlight personal, organizational and corporate pledges to live and act sustainably.
Vivo Cafe - Improving Their Sustainability and Bottom Line
VIVO Cafe is a buzzing city-click cafe hub in the heart of Sydney's CBD. Winner of 6 business awards, VIVO offers customers high quality coffee, great service and sumptuous breakfasts and lunches. Business owner, Angela Vithoulkas, explains why environmental sustainability has been a major factor to her business success.
Cube Central has Reached EcoBizCheck Bronze Certification for the Second Year
The EcoBizCheck certification program is a business based environmental assessment. As the program continues to gain momentum with EcoBizCheck business owners now across Australia, in New Zealand and Singapore, it is encouraging to see our older clients understanding the value of the assessment and credentials and renewing their certification.
How To Market Your Green Credentials
So your company has achieved green certification. You know there are benefits to marketing them but are the best ways? This article is a follow up to our previous post, Using Green Credentials to Win More Business and will explore the various methods your company could use to promote your new credentials.
Using Green Credentials to Win More Business
Environmental claims can be a powerful marketing tool. Consumers today have an increased awareness of the environmental impact that goods and services have and with government environmental regulations constantly increasing, in five or ten years it will be the expected norm that environmental sustainability initiatives are part of core business. Therefore in order for companies to differentiate themselves and be seen as industry leaders, it is important to take the opportunity now to maximize your brand mileage and market your green credentials.
The New Green, by Jodi Smith
Announced as part of the 2010 Federal government's election promise, the Tax Breaks for Green Buildings Program involves granting tax breaks from July 1, 2011- June 30, 2015, for businesses that improve the energy efficiency of their commercial building space.
Greening your IT Area for Businesses Large and Small
No matter what size your organization is, there are simple steps that we can all take to green our IT processes.
Incandescent and Halogen vs CFL vs LED
Ok, we know incandescent light bulbs are not the way to go now. I am sure most of you have heard of halogens, CFL's and LED's, but what are the differences between them and when and where should you use what? This article discusses how each version is different and the pros and cons of them all.
How to make Your Office as Paperless as Possible
6 Easy Ways for your Staff to be More Eco Conscious in the Office
Environmental Printing Strategies
While not printing at all would seem the most environmentally sustainable strategy, there are times when it is a business requirement. What then, is your businesses best solution?
Lowering Costs in a High Rise Apartment
How can you live in a high rise and lower your eco-footprint?
Australian Solar Water Rebates
With all the fuss about rebates in the press of late, it can be a bit hard to keep up with what rebates are on offer, and for what product or even how to claim them. However there is great news for those homeowners that have not already converted to solar or heat pump for heating their hot water.
Recyclable vs. Biodegradable vs. Compostable
Ways to Keep Cash in your Wallet and Be More Sustainable
Win a EcoBizCheck Retail Certification
EcoBizCheck in conjunction with Inside Retailing are offering a free Retail Environmental Certification package for your retail business.
Green Restaurants are in Demand
Environmentally sustainable restaurants are in demand with 8 out of 10 people willing to pay more to dine at a green restaurant.
Global Industry Should be able to Stabilize the Climate, says Richard Branson
ONE Group goes Gold
QLD based recently reached Gold EcoBizCheck certification status. The company reached this milestone after implementing some of the suggested measures by EcoBizCheck.
Lord Monckton - the new Messiah for the fossil fuel lobby arrives in Australia
So he has arrived and the climate change deniers are all thrilled to bits. But who is this allegedly 'all-knowing' Lord Monckton?
Baby Boomers attracted to ethical employers
Contrary to the popular myth on the issue, Baby Boomers place more emphasis on working for a socially and environmentally conscious employer than either Gen X or Gen Y, according to new research from Kelly Services.
Eco Champions - companies not just talking, but taking action!
Every 6 months we will award the best Eco Champion a special prize. Our first prize is two night's accommodation at Paperbark Camp in NSW valued at $680.More information at www.paperbarkcamp.com.au
By 2020 Demand For Natural Resources Will Outstrip Supply
By 2020, demand for natural resources will outstrip supply, resulting in higher and more volatile pricing in the consumer industry, according to a new research report.
Increased Pressure For Companies To Reduce Emissions
Nuclear PowerCompanies face increased stakeholder pressure and government regulation to reduce carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gas emissions. To address this issue, companies must take action within their supply chains, which account for the vast majority of their energy use and CO2 emissions.
$100M Lighting Retrofits Could Save $350M at US Hospitals
This is a great story about how spending money to reduce a facility's environmental impact can have considerable bottom line savings! I very good example of why green business is good business.
Carbon Footprint of Music Downloads vs Buying CD's
Purchasing music digitally reduced CO2 emissions associated with delivering music to consumers by 40-80 percent, as compared to buying a CD at retail.
Bottled Water con being targeted by NSW government
Bottled water scam facing increased scrutiny - Bundanoon, a Southern Highlands village, has taken the lead in banning bottled water. The NSW State Government poised to follow suit by banning commercially bottled water in all government departments and agencies.
Hong Kong Spectacular
Hong Kong is spectacular - it is a modern, vibrant and extremely exciting city that rivals Paris, New York or London. Since my last visit nearly ten years ago, Hong Kong has leaped into the 21st century of modern architecture and world-leading westernization with not even a hint of its slightly shabby past.
Some Useful YouTube Videos on Climate Change and Sustainability
The following clips cover climate change, business sustainability and green branding.
Dell Comes Up Roses in Corporate Sustainability Index
Despite Dell's poor technical support in Australia (assume it is outsourced), I congratulate them on their sustainability efforts. Hopefully this news will spur on other ICT companies to reduce their large and growing carbon footprints.
Free Hugs and Helmets for Cyclists
Police in Denmark give free hugs and helmets to cyclists, video after the break.
EcoBizCheck selected as a QLD Government approved ClimateSmart Business Leader
EcoBizCheck has just been selected as a Queensland Government approved ClimateSmart Business Leader. We are able to offer twenty (20) Queensland companies a FREE environmental assessment and report which is fully funded by The Department of Environment and Resource Management.
Count down to the first Zero Carbon, Clean Emission Grand Prix
Motor-sports and environmental conservation are typically mutually exclusive but the Isle of Man Grand Prix Time Trials is set to be the first Zero Carbon, Clean Emission Grand Prix and it's only 45 days away.
EcoBizCheck's New Website
If you are new or just haven't noticed, we recently made some major improvements to our website. From design to functionality; the whole lot has changed and we would love to hear what you think. Please, leave us a comment and let us know what you think about the changes.
Tony Visits the Daintree Rainforest
Recently I visited the amazing World Heritage Listed Daintree Rainforest. I was treated to a personal tour by Roger and John from the Australian Rainforest Foundation who actively work to conserve and regenerate one of the world's few surviving native rain forests.
82 Percent of Consumers Buy Green, Despite Economy
Four out of five people say they are still buying green products and services today - which sometimes cost more - even in the midst of a U.S. recession.
Green Marketing - The Right Way
Despite the distraction of the financial market mayhem, green is good, green is right and green works.
CO2 Sequestration Breakthrough? Turning CO2 into fuel
Converting CO2 into basic hydrocarbons - C1 (methane), C2 (ethane) and C3 (propane) is a distinct possibility according to California based company Carbon Sciences.
Recycle a drink can, help build a 747
IT DOES not take much - a can of drink, a snack and a newspaper multiplied by the 30 million passengers who fly in and out of Sydney each year, and you have an enormous pile of rubbish, an enormous pile that until recently has gone straight to landfill.
Murray Darling Basin is Dying
Australia's food bowl is running dry, it is Australia's most important agricultural region (40% of all Australian farms), producing one third of Australia's food supply and supports over a third of Australia's total gross value of agricultural production.
For all Climate Change Skeptics: The Arctic Ice Continues to Shrink
According to latest reports the arctic ice has continued shrinking. the latest facts provide grim reading and are a sign of things to come.
White and Yellow Pages Recycling Nightmare
Just the other week 5 White Pages directories were dropped outside my block of flats, they all ended up in the recycling bins (or worse in our landfill) because everyone in the complex already had enough tire blocks, monitor stands and useless garbage lying around their apartments.
Global Climate Change: NASA's Eye on the Earth
If there was ever a credible website that demonstrated the devastating effects of Climate Change, NASA's Global Climate Change site is it.
Are Ethanol and Biodiesel Really Green?
Ethanol and biodiesel have been talked up quite a bit in the last few months, governments are enforcing it into their fleet cars, petrol stations are providing it more at the bowsers and there is a major emphasis on it being green. But is it really?
