Give your food business a green start Your business can make a start towards becoming more sustainable by minimising energy and water usage and reducing waste. Use this checklist to help you get started. Get advice about practical ways your business can be more sustainable Talk to suppliers, builders, electricians and plumbers before you set up. Think about design For example, make the best use of natural light or insulate the building. Use environmentally friendly materials Local, reconditioned or recycled materials are available. See our Sustainable Purchasing fact sheet for more information. Install efficient heating, cooling and ventilation Systems should have a 5 star rating (or above) and be the right size for your business. See our Efficient Heating and Cooling fact sheet for more information. Refrigerate wisely Food businesses can spend up to 7 per cent of their electricity costs on refrigerators. It is important to ensure yours is energy efficient, working properly and the right size for your needs. See our Reducing your Refrigeration Costs fact sheet for more information. Install energy efficient appliances Including computers, copiers and printers. Check that power saving settings are enabled. Install smarter lighting Compact fluorescent and LED lights are efficient options. Sensors can be installed to switch off lights automatically when you leave the room. Lighting can also be zoned to only light the area needed. Speak to your electrician for more information. Save water Reduce the flow rate of taps. Consider using a rainwater tank to flush toilets. See our Water Saving fact sheet for more information. Avoid waste and recycle Plan to order what you know you can sell – balance the look of abundance with the potential for spoilage. Council offers a business recycling service. Call 9243 8888 for information. See our Waste Reduction and Recycling fact sheet for more information. Operate sustainably Let your staff know how important sustainability is to your business and encourage new ideas. Choose GreenPower from an energy supplier - the most convenient way to source renewable energy. Purchase sustainably. See our Sustainable Purchasing fact sheet for more information.