Queenstown’s Sustainable Business Programme

New Level Introduced Into Queenstown’s Sustainable Business Programme

Queenstown businesses working toward a more sustainable future are set to benefit from a new programme launched by Otago Polytechnic’s Centre for Sustainable Practice.

The Strategic Sustainable Business programme is designed for businesses already involved in sustainable practice who want to take their business to the next level. It is a natural progression from the Centre’s existing entry level programme which introduces businesses to the concepts behind implementing sustainable practices in the workplace. Both courses, which are heavily Government subsidised, start on 16 February.

The programmes will be run by Queenstown’s Sustainable Tourism Advisor Sharon Schindler and sustainable practice expert Steve Henry, who heads the Centre for Sustainable Practice.

Mr Henry says the new programme provides a clear strategic, future-focused approach to sustainable practice.

“It expands on the introductory programme and provides more indepth knowledge on how to implement sustainable practice

“Our goal is to lift Queenstown businesses to a recognised level of economic, environmental and socially sustainable practice. In turn, this will reflect positively on the resort as a destination for an increasingly environmentally aware and sustainability-focused visitor market.”

Many participating businesses have found great value in the introductory programme and are encouraging other businesses to get involved as soon as possible. Some who have participated in the introductory programme will now move on to the strategic programme.

Jon Ward, the manager of Pinewood, is happy to recommend the introductory programme to all businesses.

“The course has led to significant bottom line savings at Pinewood. The consultative and inclusive nature meant we were able to pick up tips from others and share our own ideas.

“For example, the hostel’s showers used to go through about 20 litres of water per minute, now we use just five litres per minute. We’re currently looking at more economic and environmentally friendly ways to heat our water which should also be a major improvement.”

Local media company Magic Memories has signed up for the February intake of the new strategic programme and General Manager Amy Read is looking forward to reaping the benefits in her business.

“What I like about the programme outline is that we will look at our business as a whole, and what we are currently doing, not just at what we’re not doing.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to work through positive changes we can make in our business and look forward to this benefitting us and our customers,” she says.

There are places available for the February intake of each course and businesses are encouraged to sign up now. The next intakes for the introductory programme are scheduled for June and October while the strategic programme begins in February and finishes in November.

For more information visit www.op.ac.nz and click on the “Schools & Departments tab - Centre for Sustainable Practice”.

ENDS

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