Make the most of opportunities

energy Navigating your business through current and potential climate change opportunities and pitfalls can be daunting. There are a wide range of things businesses can do from improving operational efficiency to developing new technology. The Government is supporting businesses to take hold of many of these opportunities and to take action on climate change.

Climate Change Action Fund

The Climate Change Action Fund will help businesses prepare for a low pollution future. Through the CCAF, the government is providing practical help and information to business so that they can make the transition to a low carbon economy. It is also working with businesses to help them understand in more detail how the introduction of the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme and a carbon price will affect their operations.

Australian Carbon Trust

Through the Australian Carbon Trust we will help businesses pay for energy efficiency improvements that will save them time and money. The trust will bring together public and private funding to help businesses invest in energy efficiency and reduce their emissions.

National Carbon Offset Standard

The National Carbon Offset Standard will provide business with the opportunity to become carbon neutral or develop carbon neutral products. It will provide guidance for businesses that wish to generate offsets for sale in the voluntary carbon market from Australian emissions sources.

Greenhouse Friendly™

Under Greenhouse Friendly™ until 1 July 2010, businesses can obtain certification for carbon neutral products or services.

Skills for the Carbon Challenge

We recognise the importance of training Australians so they are ready to join the new clean industries and take up the new green-collar jobs of the future. Skills for the Carbon Challenge will help develop and trial training resources and qualifications that teach green skills and sustainability principles across a number of industries.

There are also some straight-forward things you can do now to reduce the carbon footprint of your business. Many of them will actually save you money and are good for the bottom line.

Choose energy efficient machinery and commercial appliances
Appliances with a high star efficiency rating will reduce your electricity bill and greenhouse emissions. Turning your lights and computer monitors off overnight will also save on your electricity bills.
Compare energy efficient machinery and commercial appliances
Energy efficient lighting in commercial properties
One fluorescent light can outlive six incandescent globes and save $45 in electricity bills, reducing operation costs. More efficient lighting layouts can also save money and improve the look of showrooms.
Reduce costs with energy efficient lighting
Sustainable fleet management
Look for a greener way to manage fleet cars. Hybrid cars give greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
Compare vehicles’ air pollution, fuel consumption and greenhouse emissions
Energy efficient investment properties
Insulation assistance packages are available for rental properties to improve their energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
Learn how your investment properties can be energy efficient as a rental properties.