Council & Business
15 October, 2024
Environment-friendly tips for organisations
EPA Victoria has five simple tips for local businesses who want to do the right thing by the environment without making it too complicated.
EPA says the key is the General Environmental Duty (GED), a part of the Environment Protection Act 2017.
The GED requires everyone to understand the risks to human health and the environment from their activities and take reasonable steps to minimise those risks.
EPA says you know your own business so you are the one best prepared to identify risks, take actions to prevent hazards and have systems in place to limit any damage.
Risk management is central to good environmental management, just as it is to good business practice.
Thankfully the Environment Protection Act 2017 has five steps to compliance with the GED:
Minimise the risks of harm: Practical things like installing air filters on machines, managing stock volumes, regular maintenance so your sprinkler system is ready to stop a fire, and staff training in safety procedures.
Identify and control sources of risk: Know what’s happening on your premises. Landfill operators often use heat or gas detectors to reduce fire risks.
Have systems to minimise harm if something goes wrong: Reduce the impact with measures like systems to contain gas leaks or liquid spills, in-house firefighting gear, or regular staff drills to sharpen emergency response.
Store, handle and transport substances safely: There is greater risk when substances are transported or handled, like chemicals or asbestos.
Provide training and super-vision: Proper training reduces risk, prevents human errors and makes sure your harm reduction systems work when you need them.