Going Green Running Hot for Business

Going Green Running Hot for Business

Pressure worldwide is coming to bear on organisations of all types to demonstrate they are taking every care to minimize their impact on the environment with many businesses picking up the challenge.

But showing how they can prove it has not been so easy. It requires an external, independent and authoritative organization to give them an official and convincing stamp of approval.

"The cost of achieving meaningful 'green' credentials has been a major issue," says Peter Atkinson, Employers and Manufacturers Association (EMA) spokesperson on infrastructure and the environment.

"But now we're confident we can match up consumers' expectations with business needs.

"In association with EECA and the Auckland Council, EMA has set up a programme of Eco Smart Business workshops.

"Using what they learn businesses will be able to measure their 'environmental footprint', find ways to reduce energy use and waste, and earn a globally meaningful Eco Warranty certification.

"The certification will be good for carrying a business' achievements throughout their supply chain.

"The benefits of doing such a programme go beyond doing no harm; they aim to increase customer satisfaction, revenue and profit.

"A business selling direct to the consumer might well feel the pressure to develop some form of environmental credentials, but in fact it's rapidly becoming a requirement right along the supply chain.

"Large buyers such as government departments, hospitals and overseas corporates as well as warehouses storing goods and freight forwarders all want to know that your goods and services and the systems you use to produce them, comply with environmental standards."

EMA invites all organisations to the launch of its Eco Smart Business programme to learn how to:

* create a competitive advantage,

* show their supply chain they care about the environment,

* improve efficiency, and

* save money.

The launch features presentations from:

* Len Brown, mayor of Auckland on how Auckland Council is focused on increasing economic growth across the region and supports businesses that are dedicated to becoming more environmentally sustainable and efficient.

* Norm Thompson, deputy CEO of Air New Zealand on how the airline is the world-leader in emissions reduction programmes and is progressing towards ISO 14001 (sustainability) accreditation.

* Alasdair Thompson, chief executive of the EMA on how EMA has partnered with the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) and the Auckland Council to create the Eco Smart Business programme to help organisations improve their environmental performance and market their 'green' credentials.

* Annette Lusk, Sustainable Edge presenter and Ross Wilson of International Certifications Ltd describing the Eco Smart Business programme that comprises:

- five guided workshops (Jun 23 to November 4) making sustainability simple,

- environmental management tools,

- optional subsidised business upgrades, and

- Eco Warranty certification.

Event:

What: Launch of Eco Smart Business programme of guided workshops

When: Wednesday, May 4, 4.30pm-5.45pm followed by drinks and nibbles

Where: Council Chambers, 1st floor, Auckland Town Hall, Queen Street, Auckland central (parking underneath at Civic Car Park)

Charge: None

ENDS

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