Implement and monitor environmentally

advertisement
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
AgriFood Skills Australia Limited
ABN: 56109612356
10 – 12 Brisbane Avenue
BARTON ACT 2600
PO Box 5450
KINGSTON ACT 2604
P: (02) 6163 7200
F: (02) 6162 0610
E: reception@agrifoodskills.net.au
With the exception of the AgriFood Skills Australia logo, any material protected by a trade mark and
where otherwise noted, all material presented in this document is provided under a Creative
Commons Atribution-Share Alike 3.0 Australia licence.
The details of the relevant licence conditions are available on the Creative Commons website
(www.creativecommons.org.au) as is the full legal code. The document must be attributed as the
AgriFood Skills Australia ACMSUS301A Learner Guide.
This project is supported by the Australian Government through the Clean Sustainable Skills Package.
2
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Contents
Contents .................................................................................................................................................. 3
SECTION 1: Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 5
1.1 Purpose of this learner guide ........................................................................................................ 5
1.2 How you will be assessed.............................................................................................................. 6
SECTION 2: What are environmentally sustainable work practices? ..................................................... 7
2.1 What are skills for sustainability ................................................................................................... 7
2.2 What impact does environmental sustainability have? ............................................................... 7
Learning Activity 1: What do you know about sustainability? ........................................................... 8
2.3 What is sustainability .................................................................................................................... 9
Learning Activity 2: Environmentally Sustainable Management (EMS) ........................................... 10
SECTION 3: Sustainability and the Australian economy ....................................................................... 11
3.1 ESD and sustainability ................................................................................................................. 11
3.2 Triple bottom line ....................................................................................................................... 11
3.3 Climate change............................................................................................................................ 12
3.4 Animal care and management sector sustainable development targets ................................... 13
3.5 Sustainable communities ............................................................................................................ 14
Learning Activity 3: Ways to go green .............................................................................................. 15
SECTION 4: Legislation and regulations ................................................................................................ 16
4.1 Legislation and regulations that relate to environmental issues................................................ 16
4.2 State and Territory Legislation .................................................................................................... 16
Assessment Activity 1: Legislation and regulations that impact on work practices ......................... 19
4.3 Industry Codes of Conduct .......................................................................................................... 20
Assessment Activity 2: Non-compliance case studies ...................................................................... 21
Learning Activity 4: Potential environmental and health hazards .................................................... 22
SECTION 5: Resource usage .................................................................................................................. 23
5.1 Ecological footprint ..................................................................................................................... 23
3
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Learning Activity 5: What is your ecological footprint...................................................................... 24
5.2 Water footprint facts and figures ............................................................................................... 25
Assessment Activity 3: Work based project...................................................................................... 26
5.3 Sustainable development and environmental protection .......................................................... 27
Similarities:.................................................................................................................................... 27
Differences: ................................................................................................................................... 27
SECTION 6: Compliance and setting targets for improvement............................................................. 28
6.1 Product Stewardship ................................................................................................................... 28
6.2 Industry policies .......................................................................................................................... 28
6.3 Roadblocks and incentives for change ........................................................................................ 29
6.4 The cost of changes in behaviour ............................................................................................... 30
Example 1: ..................................................................................................................................... 30
Example 2: ..................................................................................................................................... 31
Example 3: ..................................................................................................................................... 32
Example 4: ..................................................................................................................................... 33
SECTION 7: Implement and monitor performance ............................................................................... 34
7.1 Implementing your resource management plan ........................................................................ 34
7.2 The business sustainability roadmap .......................................................................................... 35
7.3 Monitoring, reviewing and continuous improvement ................................................................ 36
7.4 You can play a role in promoting sustainable practices ............................................................. 36
Assessment Activity 4: Implement improvement strategies ............................................................ 37
Learning Summary ................................................................................................................................ 38
Progressive Learning Record ................................................................................................................. 39
Glossary ................................................................................................................................................. 41
References ............................................................................................................................................ 42
4
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
SECTION 1: Introduction
1.1 Purpose of this learner guide
This Learner Guide has been developed to assist learners understanding of the ACMSUS301A
Implement and monitor environmentally sustainable work practices Unit of Competency from the
ACM10 Animal Care and Management Training Package.
The Guide includes information, activities and resource links relevant to the required topics of the
Unit.
ACMSUS301A Implement and monitor environmentally sustainable work practices is a Core Unit in:




ACM30510 Certificate III in Farriery
ACM50210 Diploma of Veterinary Nursing (Surgical)
ACM50310 Diploma of Veterinary Nursing (Dental)
ACM50410 Diploma of Veterinary Nursing (Emergency and Critical Care)
And an Elective Unit in:






ACM40110 Certificate IV in Animal Control and Regulation
ACM40210 Certificate IV in Captive Animals
ACM40310 Certificate IV in Companion Animal Services
ACM40410 Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing
ACM40512 Certificate IV in Equine Dentistry
ACM50110 Diploma of Animal Technology
On completion, learners will be able to:






Determine compliance requirements within work area.
Plan and organise work group activities in relation to measuring current use and devise
strategies to improve usage.
Seek input from other relevant stakeholders to set improvement targets.
Develop plans to make improvements.
Implement new approaches to work area in an effort to resolve and improve environmental
and resource efficiency issues and report, as required.
Ensure appropriate action is taken within work area in relation to
environmental/sustainability compliance and potential hazards.
This Unit covers analysing the workplace in relation to environmentally sustainable work
practices, implementing improvements and monitoring their effectiveness.
5
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
1.2 How you will be assessed
To gain formal recognition for this Unit of Competency, your assessment will be undertaken by a
qualified assessor. The assessor will look at your completed activities, project work and any other
evidence you have collected, discuss with you what you have learnt and ask you specific questions
based on the Unit. The assessor may also use other or additional tasks or activities that suit your
workplace or a simulated workplace selected for the purpose of this training.
Assessment requirements will be discussed with you at the commencement of the training. An
assessor is able to be flexible in the way they conduct an assessment and you should let them and
your mentor/supervisor know if you have any special requirements.
It is good practice to collect information, copies of documents, records, photos or other material
that will assist you at the time of assessment. This will help you demonstrate that you understand
what you have learnt and can apply the skills and knowledge required outlined in the Unit of
Competency.
6
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
SECTION 2: What are environmentally sustainable work practices?
2.1 What are skills for sustainability
‘Skills for sustainability (also known as green skills), are the technical skills, knowledge, values and
attitudes needed in the workforce to develop and support sustainable social, economic and
environmental outcomes in business, industry and the community.’ (Green Skills Agreement 2009)
Source: Council of Australian Governments Green Skills Agreement
http://www.deewr.gov.au/Skills/Programs/WorkDevelop/ClimateChangeSustainability/Documents/GSAgreement.pdf
2.2 What impact does environmental sustainability have?
Environmental sustainability impacts on:





you
your workplace
your local community
our Australian lifestyle and economy
world markets.
7
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Learning Activity 1: What do you know about sustainability?
Learning Activity 1: What do you know about sustainability?
Part A: Group discussion
In small groups, discuss what you think sustainability means and how it might affect work practices;
summarise your group’s comments.
Report back to the class and collate your ideas.
As you are developing the list start a glossary of terms.
Part B: watch the following videos:
 Sustainability explained through animation
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B5NiTN0chj0&feature=related
 Working towards sustainability
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1keHWhdzTTE&feature=related
Once you have watched the videos, update the class list of definitions and ideas on sustainability and
update the glossary of terms.
Glossary Builder
Use this table to keep track of terms and definitions you learn in this Unit.
Term
Definition
8
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
2.3 What is sustainability
There is no simple definition of 'sustainability'. It can be an idea, a property of living systems, a
manufacturing method or a way of life. In fact, there may be as many definitions of sustainability as
there are people trying to define it. However, most definitions include:

living within the limits of what the environment can provide

understanding the many interconnections between economy, society and the environment

the equal distribution of resources and opportunities.
Source: Office of Environment and Heritage http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/sustainability/index.htm
9
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Learning Activity 2: Environmentally Sustainable Management (EMS)
Learning Activity 2: Environmentally Sustainable Management (EMS)
Investigate successful environmentally sustainable management implementation projects
This activity will help prepare you for Assessment Activity 3. By looking at other workplaces that
have implemented environmentally sustainable work practices you can investigate ideas and
strategies that may be relevant to your workplace.
Speaking to those who have implemented sustainable work practices and those who are affected by
them can help you identify potential problems and benefits.
Nothing beats first-hand experience, so by visiting workplaces, community or individual projects or
government departments that have implemented sustainable work practices you can see for
yourself the effects of environmentally sustainable work practices.
Part A:
Below are examples of animal care workplaces that have implemented environmentally sustainable
work practices. Go to the relevant website to read more and find some tips before you visit a site in
person. This activity will help you prepare for your workplace project in Assessment Activity 4.
Landcare Australia:
http://www.landcareonline.com.au/case-studies/sa/achievable-intensive-horse-keeping/
Horse Land Water:
http://horseslandwater.com/zdocument/file/21/Doig_report.pdf
Castleford Veterinary Group:
http://www.whyallavet.com.au/Whyalla/whyallatitle.html
Taronga Conservation Society Australia
http://www.taronga.org.au/animals-conservation/sustainability/environmental-sustainability
Part B:
Visit some workplaces so you can see and experience how these changes impact on the workplace.
Identify 2 or 3 different work places that have implemented environmentally sustainable practices.
Ideally, at least one should relate to your work practices or the type of animal management that is
common in your industry sector.
Report back to the rest of your group on your findings and discuss strategies that could be relevant
to your workplace.
10
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
SECTION 3: Sustainability and the Australian economy
3.1 ESD and sustainability
The term ‘ecologically sustainable development' or 'ESD', is widely used within Australian industry in
conjunction with or in place of the term 'sustainability'.
The Brundtland Report ’Our Common Future’ (1987) defines sustainable development as:
’development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future
generations to meet their own needs’
Sustainable development is comprised of three major aspects:
Environmental
Social
Economic
Sustainable development implies using:



renewable resources, such as wood, in a way that does not eliminate or degrade them
non-renewable mineral resources, such as aluminium and steel, in a way that does not
unnecessarily preclude easy access to them by future generations
non-renewable energy sources, such as oil and coal, slowly enough to allow an orderly
transition to renewable energy sources.
ESD aims to reduce energy use and to minimise other
adverse environmental impacts.
Source: University of Michigan Sustainability Assessment, 2002
3.2 Triple bottom line
Australia’s National Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development, 1992, defines ESD as
‘using, conserving and enhancing the community’s resources so that ecological processes, on
which life depends, are maintained and the total quality of life, now and in the future can be
increased.’
11
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Triple Bottom Line is also known as - ’people, planet, profit’ or the ’Three Pillars’. Triple bottom line
is the inter-dependence between people, resources and business viability; it is used to measure an
organisation’s economic, ecological and social success.
Source: University of Michigan Sustainability Assessment, 2002
3.3 Climate change
Scientists from the Australian Government Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency
agree that the worst effects of climate change can be avoided if pollution levels are reduced.
’Our climate is changing, largely due to the observed increases in human produced carbon
pollution. These changes we have seen over the 20th century include increases in global
average air and ocean temperature, widespread melting of snow and ice and rising global
sea levels. The extra heat in the climate system has other impacts, such as affecting
atmospheric and ocean circulation, which influences rainfall and wind patterns.
Another serious impact of increasing carbon pollution is ocean acidification. Around a
quarter of human-produced carbon dioxide is absorbed by the oceans. As the carbon dioxide
dissolves in seawater, it forms a weak carbonic acid, making the ocean more acidic. There
are early indications that some marine organisms are already being affected by ocean
acidification.
Each decade in Australia since the 1940s has been warmer than the last—2001 to 2010 was
the warmest decade on record in Australia and around the globe.’
12
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
The Australian Government’s Clean Energy Future plan introduces a carbon price, options to invest
in renewable energy, a plan to reduce reliance on polluting energy sources and ways to encourage
land management practices that store carbon in the soil, all aimed at reducing major pollution
sources.
View - Securing a clean energy future – The Australian Government’s Climate Change Plan
http://www.cleanenergyfuture.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Consolidated-Final.pdf
3.4 Animal care and management sector sustainable development targets
The sustainable development targets for the animal care and management sector are:









applying animal welfare ethics and procedures
control of effluents, chemical residues, contaminants, wastes and pollution
increasing use of renewable, recyclable and recoverable resources
minimising noise, dust, light or odour emissions
preventing live cultured or held organisms from escaping into environment
reducing emissions of greenhouse gases
reducing energy use and improving energy efficiency
reducing use of non-renewable resources
undertaking environmental hazard identification, risk assessment and control.
13
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
3.5 Sustainable communities
The social or community aspects of sustainability programs must include the impact on the whole
community. Many animal care enterprises operate on the peri-urban fringe or in rural areas.
Rural towns and peri-urban areas lose more than population when people move away; economies of
scale may mean there is not enough income derived from local customers to keep businesses open;
schools may close without minimum numbers of students forcing more students to leave home for
education or commuting further away each day. As services close others follow as customers tend to
do all of their shopping in one place. Products that can be bought locally are purchased from towns
further away.
Sustainability in Rural Communities
’The relationship between the agricultural sector and rural and regional communities is one of
interdependence. Agriculture provides the economic base of many town and rural communities.
Conversely, agriculture often depends on many services provided by rural and regional centres. These
can include:





effective communication
transport
financial services
networks for the supply of water and energy
other agricultural products and services.
Towns also provide a social focus for people involved in their surrounding agricultural industries and
are also the source of goods and services for the maintenance of general community welfare.
Coordinated planning and management of services in rural and regional NSW is therefore important
not only for long-term prosperity of rural communities but also productivity of agricultural industries.
Agricultural lands may also include places of value to the community such as Aboriginal sites of
cultural importance and natural heritage areas. These places are not only irreplaceable but
contribute to a sense of regional identity. They may have potential for activities such as tourism or
education. Managing agricultural activities to avoid negative impacts will help ensure they survive
for the future.’
Source: LandLearn NSW Department of Primary Industries www.landlearnnsw.org.au/sustainability/primary-industries-and-sustainability
14
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Learning Activity 3: Ways to go green
Learning Activity 3: Ways to go green
Watch the video 10 ways to go green and read the associated information
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kS6JN67DWtc&feature=related
Visit the Hawkesbury City Council website Living Sustainably in the Hawkesbury section and review
the tips on how to improve environmental sustainability in your home
http://sustainability.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/
Use these ideas to generate a list of examples that could be used in your workplace.
Your animal care business type:___________________________________________
Household actions
Workplace or business actions
Cultivate energy saving habits
Cultivate waste reduction habits
Use non-toxic cleaners
Recycle organic waste
Buy local and seasonal food
DYI environmental home checklist
Generate your own electricity
Help protect our waterways
Install solar hot water
Insulate, shade and weatherproof your house
Others…
15
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
SECTION 4: Legislation and regulations
4.1 Legislation and regulations that relate to environmental issues
The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (the EPBC Act) is the Australian
Government’s central piece of environmental legislation. It provides a legal framework to protect
and manage nationally and internationally important flora, fauna, ecological communities and
heritage places — defined in the EPBC Act as matters of national environmental significance.
Source: Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities:
www.environment.gov.au/epbc/about/index.html
4.2 State and Territory Legislation
Each State and Territory has different legislation and regulations and in some cases your local council
or shire will also have bylaws or guidelines that relate to land use, waste management and other
related resource management issues. They may also be the authority where reports of hazardous
material spills and environmental contamination must be made. For example:
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) NSW regulates compliance on behalf of the NSW
Government. It covers:




hazardous materials and waste
offensive noise
pollution:
o air
o land
o water
waste management.
The regulations cover a range of topics that will impact on animal care and management workplaces.
Many animal care and management enterprises use chemicals on a regular basis in the treatment of
animals and for hygiene management and disease control. Some chemicals are toxic. Care must be
taken with storage, use and disposal of chemicals.
16
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Here’s an example of a guideline published by the NSW EPA relating to mobile dog wash
operation:
DOG WASHERS
‘Mobile dog washing units are either trailers or vans fitted with a pet ‘hydro-bath’ to wash the dog.
On-site, the unit is connected to water mains using a hosepipe to fill the hydro-bath. Most units
discharge their wastewater onto the ground via a short length of pipe after each bath, although
some units have storage tanks to use in areas where discharge onto the ground is not an option.
Units should have a basket at the end of the pipe to collect pet hair and other debris. Wastewater
containing flea rinse should never be disposed of onto the ground.
Issues of particular concern are the use of flea rinses and the disposal of wastewater into the storm
water system.’
MAKE YOUR BUSINESS FISH FRIENDLY
‘Dog washing businesses who take up the environmental challenge can expect to avoid storm water
pollution, reduce waste and wastewater, recover resources through recycling, reusing and
composting and become more efficient.'
Our storm water system empties directly into our rivers without any treatment. Products used in dog
washing, such as flea rinses and shampoo can kill fish and aquatic life. Never allow anything to flow
into the gutter or storm water drain.’







WASH WATER DISPOSAL
Always plan your wastewater disposal options before you start work.
Never dispose of wash water in a gutter or stormwater drain.
Never dispose of wash water to dry streambeds or where it can flow into wetlands and
waterways.
All wash water must be passed through a basket before disposal to remove pet hair.
Pet hair should then be collected and disposed of in a garbage bin.
If you are working in an area where there is no suitable wastewater disposal option, the
water should be stored for later disposal.
Always use the smallest amount of shampoo possible.
‘This table highlights the preferred options for disposing of wastewater to reduce the risk of pollution
and give your business a greener, cleaner image.’
If bath water contains
Shampoo only
Selected shampoo and flea rinse
Medicated shampoo
Dispose to:
Sewer
Septic tank
YES
YES
YES
YES
NO
NO
Ground where water
can soak
YES
NO
NO
Source: NSW Office of Environment & Heritage www.environment.nsw.gov.au/sustainbus/dogwashers.htm
17
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Regulatory authorities and local councils may be responsible for issuing licenses for:



emissions to air, land or water
hazardous material management, storage and disposal
waste storage.
18
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Assessment Activity 1: Legislation and regulations that impact on work
practices
Assessment Activity 1: Legislation and regulations that impact on work
practices
In this activity you will be investigating the range of legislation/regulations that influence
environmental sustainability and the effects on the operation of your workplace.
In preparation for this activity ask your supervisor to show you the types of records that
demonstrate the business complies with environmental legislation/regulations.
Activity
Find the legislation and regulations that affect your workplace and list these next to the types of
records you found in your workplace.
Remember, there may be state or local government variations that affect your particular workplace.
Types of legislation you should be looking for include legislation and/or regulations that:







restricts the type of activities that can occur in your local area (business type or land use for
instance)
controls water, power, gas and other utility use
controls waste management and pollution
controls animal health care, handling and housing
controls water run-off, erosion, weed management
protects flora and fauna biodiversity
protects water catchments, waterways and fisheries.
19
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
4.3 Industry Codes of Conduct
Some animal care industry sectors have begun to develop their own codes of conduct for
environmental sustainability. However, in Australia at the moment most that are relevant to the
animal care sector relate mainly to animal diversity and biosecurity issues specifically rather than to
the broader whole of business impact of environmentally sustainable work practices.
Example 1: The Zoo and Aquarium Association refers to a list of government agencies and
authorities that their members work with in order to maintain their collections, import and export
animals, fish and other aquarium species. Source: Zoo and Aquarium Association:
http://www.zooaquarium.org.au/index.php/press-releases/legislative-requirements/
Taronga Zoo in Sydney has a sustainability charter and examples of environmentally sustainable
practices on their available on their website:
http://www.taronga.org.au/animals-conservation/sustainability/environmental-sustainability
Example 2:
Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine USA are
engaging in a more sustainable environmentally responsible
operation – visit their website to see how.
’Our mission is to advance the health of animals, people and
the environment through professional research and service
around the globe, utilizing a Conservation Medicine
approach.’
Source: Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary
20
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Assessment Activity 2: Non-compliance case studies
Assessment Activity 2: Non-compliance case studies
Prosecutions for pollution can adversely affect a small business. Pollution can either be deliberate illegal
disposal or by accidental or inadvertent consequences to other incidents.
Review the following case studies from the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA).
GO TO: http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/resources/sustainbus/2007210caseStudies.pdf
 CASE STUDY 1: Environment Protection Authority v Truegain Pty Ltd
 CASE STUDY 2: Environment Protection Authority v Ecolab Pty Ltd
 CASE STUDY 3: Environment Protection Authority v Warringah Golf Club & Environment
Protection Authority v Craig Coggins
Work in groups, choose a different Case Study for each group and:
1. Identify the workplace type in the case study then think of a workplace in animal care and
management that may potentially have a similar risk of pollution.
2. Identify the penalty awarded and the reason for the penalty.
3. Present your group case study to the rest of the class.
4. As a class summarise the types of pollution prosecutions that could occur in animal care and
management workplaces.
The NSW Department of Environment and Climate Change - Storing and Handling Liquids Participant
Guide includes tips on how to avoid liquid spills.
The NSW Department of Environment and
Heritage - Storing and Handling Liquids
Participant’s Guide includes tips on how to avoid
liquid spills.
Source: Storing and Handling Liquids, Participant’s Guide
www.environment.nsw.gov.au/sustainbus/liquids.htm
21
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Learning Activity 4: Potential environmental and health hazards
Learning Activity 4: Potential environmental and health hazards
Step 1: This activity will help you identify the potential health and environmental risks that chemicals and other
materials could present.
GO TO: Green Vet Practice website and investigate the chemicals and materials used in the manufacture or
preparation of medical supplies. >http://greenvetpractice.com/02-choices.html<
Air fresheners
Fluorescent light
Batteries
Glass
Betadine
Glutaraldehyde
Bleach
Heavy metals
Cellulose
Hydrogen peroxide
Chlorhexiderm
Isoprene
Cotton
Isopropyl alcohol
Detergent
Latex
Ethylene vinyl acetate
Nitrile rubber
Source: Green Vet Practice – Everyday Choices
Nylon
Plasticizers
Plastics
Polyester
Polyethylene
Polypropylene
Polystyrene
Polyurethane
Polyvinyl chloride
Rayon roccal
Silicone
Sodium nitrate
Steel
Teflon
Vinyl
Wood
Zinc sulfate
Step 2: Select 10 chemicals and 10 materials from the list and fill in the following table.
Chemical
Used for:
Environment/health risk
Alternative?
Material
Used for:
Environment /health risk
Alternative?
22
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
SECTION 5: Resource usage
5.1 Ecological footprint
The ecological footprint is a measure of human demand on the Earth's ecosystems. It is a
standardised measure of demand for natural capital that may be contrasted with the planet's
ecological capacity to regenerate. It represents the amount of biologically productive land and sea
area necessary to supply the resources a human population consumes, and to assimilate associated
waste.
A nation's 'ecological footprint' is one description of its consumption in over 60 categories of
resources. It relates to the amount of biologically productive space required to provide the resources
used by that nation and to absorb its waste. The result is expressed in global hectares.
Australia's ecological footprint in the Living Planet Report 2008 was 7.8 global hectares (gha) per
person. This is 2.8 times the average global Footprint (2.7 gha), and well beyond the level of what
the planet can regenerate on an annual basis - an equivalent of about 2.1 gha per person per year.
The most significant factor contributing to the Australian ecological footprint is carbon dioxide
emissions from fossil fuels (constituting approximately half of the total Australian footprint).
Source: Environment Protection Authority Victoria, www.epa.vic.gov.au/
’A report examining the pressures the world is placing on the planet's biodiversity ranks Australia
as having the seventh biggest ecological footprint per person when compared to other nations.
Conservation group World Wildlife Fund (WWF), which compiled the Living Planet 2012 Report,
says the spiralling global population and over-consumption are threatening the future health of
the planet.
The results of the survey were calculated by comparing renewable resources consumed against the
Earth's regenerative capacity.’ Radio Australia News, 2012, www.radioaustralianews.net.au
We have been exceeding the Earth's ability to support our lifestyle. Habitats are being destroyed;
the soil and waterways are being irreparably
degraded. We must get back into balance!
And we can. Each of us can make some simple
changes that will add up to a great deal of relief for our
increasingly fragile planet.
If all countries consumed the resources that we Australians do, it
would take the biocapacity of three Earths to support their
lifestyle.
Source: World Wildlife Fund, 2008 www.wwf.org.au
23
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Learning Activity 5: What is your ecological footprint
Learning Activity 5: What is your ecological footprint
Step 1: How much land area does it take to support your lifestyle? Access and take one of the
quizzes below. The results will give you an indication of what your ecological footprint is. Discover
your biggest areas of resource consumption, and learn what you can do to tread more lightly on the
earth.
Source: World Wildlife Fund - Australia
TO ACCESS THE CALCULATOR GO TO:
World Wildlife Fund,
www.wwf.org.au/our_work/people_and_the_environment/human_footprint/footprint_calculator
OR
Environment Protection Agency, Victoria,
http://www.epa.vic.gov.au/ecologicalfootprint/calculators/default.asp
Step 2: Record the outcomes of your calculation
24
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
5.2 Water footprint facts and figures






There are 1,000 litres in a cubic metre of water.
To produce one cup of black coffee (without sugar) takes 140 litres of water.
During the drought in Brisbane the daily direct use in a household was 140 litres per person.
The average annual water footprint of a person in the US is 2,900 cubic metres.
The average annual water footprint of a person in Australia is 1,400 cubic metres.
An Olympic swimming pool holds 2,500 cubic metres of water.
Source: World Wildlife Fund, www.wwf.org.au/our_work/people_and_the_environment/human_footprint/water_footprint
Learning Activity 6: Practice calculating resource use
This activity will help prepare you for Assessment Activity 4.
Use the following tools to practice calculating resource use and costs. Some tools will rely on
estimating materials and costs while others will require actual measurements and costing models.
Use one or more of the following tools:

Department of Environment and Heritage Protection Quick carbon footprint calculator
http://www.derm.qld.gov.au/ecobiz/carbon-calculator.php

ActewAGL Energy and Water savings calculator - to estimate water use
http://www.actewagl.com.au/Help-and-advice/Energy-and-water-management/Energyand-water-savings-calculator.aspx

Department of Environment and Heritage Protection - Energy Facts
http://www.ehp.qld.gov.au/sustainability/energy_saving_facts.html
The information you compile here will be used later in assessment tasks for this Unit.
Learning Activity 7: Resource use in the work group area
Using the example of an industry driven resource audit document for the horse industry, go to
http://www.horseslandwater.com/ and complete the property action plan on line.
25
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Assessment Activity 3: Work based project
Assessment Activity 3: Work based project
This project will help you to develop your own sustainable resource management strategies that will
apply to your own workplace.
To help keep you on track the project is broken into 3 stages:
STAGE 1: Identify resources used in the workplace
Complete an inventory of workplace assets and equipment that impact on environmental
sustainability.
Include in your inventory:



workplace equipment that impacts on environmental sustainability
utilities that are used in your workplace that impact on environmental resource
use (include power, water, gas sources here)
raw materials and other supplies that are used in your workplace, where they
come from and how they are delivered.
You will need to include:




the estimated age and life expectancy of the equipment
the estimated cost (if known)
the type of power needed to operate the equipment
any sustainable features of the item (such as energy or water star ratings).
If your enterprise uses a wide variety of equipment and supplies you can select 20 items for
this exercise.
If your enterprise uses only a few items of equipment and/or supplies you will need to
include them all (for mobile workers this might include your home office and surroundings).
STAGE 2: Identify work practice
Identify the types of work activity that are undertaken and align them to resource use.
List the work activities that occur and document the materials, supplies and equipment that is
needed to complete the task.
STAGE 3: Set reasonable targets for implementation
Plan realistic implementation timeframes and methods to monitor the compliance of staff to the
new strategies.
26
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
5.3 Sustainable development and environmental protection
Similarities:
By protecting the environment we support sustainable development. A healthy environment means
clean air, unpolluted water and healthy soil; all necessary for the survival of future generations.
The preservation of natural resources supports sustainability. Many environmental concepts like
reuse and recycling allow us to save natural resources for future generations.
Environmental training and education support sustainable development. While working to protect
the environment we learn more about the world around us and improve our ability to identify
solutions for sustainable development.
Differences:
Environment is just one of the components embedded in the concept of sustainable development.
Society and economy are equally important. Although it is necessary to protect the environment it is
not always sufficient, since a healthy environment does not necessary mean a prosperous society or
a healthy economy.
Sustainable development is a goal of the entire society. A participatory approach is an integral part
of sustainability.
Sustainable development explores the relationships between environmental, social and economic
benefits. Environmental protection is often limited to the impact on nature.
Environmental protection implies reducing adverse effects, not necessarily allowing future
generations to inherit the same amount of natural, social and economic wealth as their
predecessors.
Whereas environmental protection is often regulated, sustainable development involves going
beyond compliance.
Source: Danville Area Community College: http://www.dacc.edu/sustainability/what.php
27
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
SECTION 6: Compliance and setting targets for improvement
6.1 Product Stewardship
Australian businesses, across a wide range of sectors, have been working to reduce the
environmental impacts of their operations and products. In many sectors industries have, or are
developing, voluntary product stewardship schemes.
Product Stewardship is an approach that recognises that manufacturers, importers, governments
and consumers have a shared responsibility for the environmental impacts of a product throughout
its full life cycle. Product Stewardship schemes establish a means for relevant parties in the product
chain to share responsibility for the products they produce, handle, purchase, use and discard.
Governments are keen to support manufacturers and importers of products in these efforts.
Source: National Environment Protection and Heritage Council: http://www.ephc.gov.au/stewardship
6.2 Industry policies
This is an extract from the sustainable practices suggested on the Green Vet Practice website where
a wide range of resource efficiency ideas are listed. Money can be a big motivator to anyone,
imagine making savings like this!
‘Our hospital’s story (H2E)
Imagine eliminating 16.6% of a facility’s total waste.
Imagine saving over $124,000.00 in the process.
And then think about doing that by eliminating the use of just one product.
And, what if the expense on the single use item you were eliminating totalled over $180,000.00
over a two year period?
Would it become important to you to do that?’
Source: The Green Vet Practice: >http://greenvetpractice.com/01-strategies.htm<
28
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
6.3 Roadblocks and incentives for change
The introduction of environmental regulations, both nationally and internationally, encourages
businesses to improve their environmental performance. But compliance often creates unexpected
costs that threaten profitability. The most significant financial liabilities for companies are those
associated with remediation, clean-ups and penalties for breaches of legislation. Businesses can face
difficulties if they fail to anticipate their environmental liabilities.
Faced with the increasing burden of regulation, some businesses choose to go beyond compliance
towards comprehensive environmental programmes and sustainable development.
For the business enterprise, sustainable development means adopting strategies and activities that
meet the needs of the enterprise and its stakeholders today while protecting, sustaining and
enhancing the human and natural resources that will be needed in the future.
A substantial number of companies recognise that the implementation of sustainable business
strategies can lead to new opportunities and improved results.
Source: International Institute of Sustainable Development http://www.iisd.org/business/sd_journey.asp
29
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
6.4 The cost of changes in behaviour
Following are several examples of changing behaviour that often cost less than current practices.
Example 1:
Greening the OR (Operating Theatre) Initiative is looking at interventions in the OR that reduce
environmental impact, reduce cost, increase efficiency and improve worker or patient safety – or
some combination of these. There are a range of interventions that have been looked at by the
initiative and participating hospitals will continue to define additional interventions as they are
piloted and implemented at different institutions. Initial interventions looked at include:










regulated medical waste reduction and segregation
fluid management systems
single-use device reprocessing
OR kit reformulation
reusable surgical gowns and basins
LED lighting and power booms
displacement ventilation
waste anaesthetic gas (WAG) capture and reclamation
medical plastics recycling
reusable hard cases for surgical instruments.
Source: Greening the Operating Room Initiative Project Overview
http://practicegreenhealth.org/sites/default/files/upload-files/gor_project_overview_oct2011_0.pdf
30
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Example 2:
This table is based on the Green Building Council of Australia Business Clean Up Day suggestions that
will give you some ideas on how you can reduce resource use in your workplace.
Today and every day
-
-
Equipment
-
turn off computers and other
office machines when not in
use
activate energy saving
functions where available
re-set photocopiers from
default to double sided
printing
Next week
-
-
-
-
Lighting
-
-
Your
comfort
-
-
Materials
-
-
Other
-
remove superfluous light bulbs
turn off lights when not in use
put up signs to remind others
to turn off lights
-
where possible, open windows
instead of using air
conditioners
program air conditioning to
turn off at the end of the day
and at the end of the working
week
position your computer
monitor so its perpendicular to
the window to reduce glare
-
use on-line versions of
documents or cut and paste
relevant sections only for
printing
re-use paper that is unprinted
on one side for in- house drafts
-
take your mug when
purchasing takeaway coffee
establish a green office team
or committee to identify and
implement ongoing energy
efficiencies
walk, cycle or use public
transport
-
-
-
-
-
Next month/year
implement workplace
policy to minimise
unnecessary equipment
use
ensure organisation
purchasing policy sources
energy efficient
equipment
provide chilled water to
reduce purchase of
bottled drinking water
replace bulbs with
compact fluorescents
install task lighting e.g. a
lamp so large banks of
overhead lights are not
used
-
position equipment away
from thermostats to
avoid false temperature
readings affecting climate
control systems
use a stand to elevate
laptops to avoid glare and
eye-strain
reduce hot water
temperatures in kitchens
and other areas
replace disposable items
such as cups, cutlery with
reusable items
source photocopy paper
that has some recycled
paper content
-
use indoor plants to filter
pollutants from indoor air
and increase relative
humidity in air
conditioned workplaces
provide waste sorting
bins for different types of
items
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
install water-saving
devices or flow
restrictors
install surge protectors
for equipment
consider updating
computer monitors to
energy efficient flat
screen models
install intelligent lighting
controls to turn off lights
when area is unattended
or natural light is ample
design workplace layout
to maximise use of
natural light
regularly service climate
control and ventilation
systems to maintain
efficiency
select window
furnishings for effective
control of light in north
facing or east/west facing
windows
block drafts and consider
insulation installation
buy non-toxic cleaning
supplies in bulk or
condensed forms
establish a re-distribution
room for staff to deposit
and re-use surplus
equipment
use teleconferencing
rather than long distance
travel where possible
choose green power
from energy supplier
introduce a ride-sharing
scheme
Source: Green Building Council of Australia http://www.gbca.org.au/news/business-clean-up-good-for-the-bottomline/393.htm
31
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Example 3:
Changing the selection of materials and actual work routines can also help improve resource
efficiency. The next learning activity will introduce you to a whole of business approach to the
reduce, reuse, recycle and replace philosophy.
Waste is the end of the line – beyond this point you have little control. The way you manage your
waste is not a trivial matter. You can save quite a bit of money by making smart choices. According
to H2E, healthcare institutions that have engaged in fully-fledged waste reduction efforts have
reduced their disposal cost alone by 40-70%.
1. REDUCE and REUSE as much as you can and reduce your waste to a minimum.
Reducing waste is extremely challenging in a medical practice setting considering all the packaging,
individual use items, animal waste and biohazardous waste that is generated every day.
2. RECYCLE what’s left over as much as you can.
Ideally you will find a recycler that will take everything: plastic, glass, metal and computers.
3. KNOW WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR WASTE!
You do have some choices beyond reducing waste as much as possible. Before you pay for a waste
handling service, be sure you are comfortable with how they manage it. Medical waste is either
dumped in a landfill or burned.
In the land fill, there are issues with:



land use – taking good land and using it to dump trash in increasing amounts
soil contamination from chemicals and heavy metals – making it unusable for agriculture or
future human habitation or use
runoff and groundwater contamination from chemicals that threaten water supply and
environmental freshwater sources.
In the incinerator, there are issues with:



burning of plastics that release dioxin and other harmful chemicals into the environment –
medical waste when incinerated is the third largest contributor of dioxin
release of heavy metals, including mercury, into the environment
energy used to burn the trash – some operations have heat recovery processes.
32
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Hazardous waste, including antibiotics and drugs:


general considerations – biohazardous waste (don’t throw other things in there!), solid
waste – know where it goes, landfills vs. incinerators
body disposal – options – implications for runoff and antibiotics and other things
(barbiturates) getting into environment.
Source: The Green Vet Practice: http://greenvetpractice.com/06-waste.htm
Example 4:
The Green Vet Practice has a wide range of ideas on
implementation strategies to reduce the impact of
work practices on resources.
http://greenvetpractice.com/
33
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
SECTION 7: Implement and monitor performance
7.1 Implementing your resource management plan
Implementing changes in the workplace can be a challenge, you will need to justify decisions and
demonstrate the advantages to motivate work colleagues to cooperate if your plan is to succeed.
Here are some tips based on those provided in the Green Champion Guide to help you.
First, plan your strategy.
Now that you have conducted your resource audit of current use you will need to:
1. Develop an Action Plan to plan and present your proposal. It should acknowledge any
current positive practices and include the benefits of any changes. It’s a good idea to find
ways to align the proposed strategies to overall business objectives.
2. Increase the chance of success by starting with small targets that are realistic and
achievable in a short timeframe (e.g. three months).
3. Meet with your manager and ask for their assistance by supporting you when you present
your pitch to stakeholders.
4. Develop a task list and rough timeframes for implementation once you have support from
other stakeholders in your workplace. Remember that this is just one of your (and your
colleagues’) workplace responsibilities, so make sure you give yourself achievable tasks that
don’t overtake other work duties.
5. Recruit other supporters in your workgroup. If you can get others in your workplace
interested in your plans they are more likely to succeed. Talk to colleagues; prepare small
handouts or posters explaining the plan.
Green Champion Guide: Victorian Employers’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Victorian Government:
http://www.whatcanidorightnow.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/Green_Champion.pdf
Six Steps to Eco-Efficiency
Source: EcoBiz Queensland, www.derm.qld.gov.au/ecobiz
34
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
7.2 The business sustainability roadmap
Monitoring performance of sustainable work practices is essential if you are to achieve a successful
triple bottom line outcome. You will need to adjust the plan from time to time; you will also want to
be able to calculate savings in energy use, materials consumption, costs as well as job satisfaction
and staff compliance.
The Queensland Government sustainability roadmap charts the stages of an effective sustainability
plan.
Source: Sustainable Industries Branch, Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection
www.derm.qld.gov.au/sustainability/pdf/siroadmap.pdf
You and your work colleagues will need:




A commitment from management and staff to stay with the plan long enough to be able to
evaluate its impact.
To develop plans and procedures that comply with legislative and regulatory requirements
(and that are aligned with industry best practice codes) before you begin, so that your
practices do not contravene environmental management obligations. This will allow for a
smooth implementation into general work activities.
To embed environmentally sustainable work practices in standard operating procedures and
general work practices.
To regularly monitor the plan and adjust where necessary to further improve workplace
resource efficiency.
35
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
7.3 Monitoring, reviewing and continuous improvement
The following table provides an example of an environmental monitoring plan. This may help with
ensuring the key environmental performance indicators are continually being measured throughout
the year. The task of monitoring each aspect may be delegated, however the responsibility and
accountability rests with the identified person.
Monitoring Schedule
What
Energy use
Office waste
Water use
Fuel use
How
Smart meters to
monitor energy
usage
Waste
monitoring
checklist
Sub-meters to
monitor peaks
Monthly bills
and vehicle fleet
log records
How often
Monthly
Records
Smart meter
data
Who
Environment
coordinator
Monthly
Spreadsheet
Office
manager
Monthly
Sub-meters
report
Spreadsheet
Environment
coordinator
Facilities
officer
Monthly
Source: Resource Smart - Victorian Government:
The Resource Smart website includes a range of monitoring tools and schedules that will give you
some ideas on how to plan your own program.
http://sustainabilitysearch.funnelback.com/search/search.cgi?query=monitoring+schedule&collection=sustainabilityvic&binary=1&form=docu
ments
7.4 You can play a role in promoting sustainable practices





Recognise your ability to act sustainably in all you do.
Play an active role in promoting more sustainable practices.
Through education, promote a behavioural change which exemplifies sustainable practices.
Do not compromise the possibilities of future generations through unsustainable activities.
Encourage consideration of alternative more sustainable solutions, strategies and
perspectives in addressing concepts, problems or issues in business, government and
communities.
36
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Assessment Activity 4: Implement improvement strategies
Assessment Activity 4: Implement improvement strategies
There are two options for completing this assessment activity:
1. Implement your performance improvement strategies
OR
2. Present a pitch to your supervisor justifying why your performance improvement
recommendations should be implemented.
In this activity you will present your work project results to your supervisor or trainer in a simulation
exercise. You will need to be able to:


Provide evidence to back up your claims relating to:
- current resource use
- estimated reduction in resource use
- estimated cost savings (in time, labour, purchase expenses)
- estimated costs in initial implementation of your suggested improvements
- identifying the limitations of current practices.
Identify triple bottom line advantages and any disadvantages in the implementation of your
suggested improvements:
- economic
- social
- environmental (include impact on animals within the workplace).
This is the last assessment task for this Unit.
By now you should be able to:






determine compliance requirements within your work area
plan and organise work group activities in relation to measuring current use and devising
strategies to improve usage
seek input from other relevant stakeholders to set improvement targets
develop plans to make improvements
implement new approaches to work area in an effort to resolve and improve environmental
and resource efficiency issues and report, as required
ensure appropriate action is taken within work area in relation to
environmental/sustainability compliance and potential hazards.
This means you will be prepared to implement environmentally sustainable work practices in your
workplace.
37
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Learning Summary
Now that you have reached the end of this Learner Guide you should have a better idea of the role
you can play at work and the types of sustainable practices that can be implemented to more
efficiently manage environmental resources.
Everyone has a responsibility to practice and support sustainable work practices so that we can all
enjoy a satisfying quality of life whilst maintaining the balance between resource availability and our
needs in an economically viable way.
’Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the
ability of future generations to meet their own needs.’
Source: The Brundtland Report ’Our Common Future.
This report was presented by the Prime Minister of Norway Mrs Gro Brundtland in 1987. It is
attributed to have brought the concepts of sustainable development to the international political
agenda.
38
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Progressive Learning Record
1. Investigate current practices in relation to resource usage
Performance criteria
Knowledge/skills required
Performance criteria
Knowledge/skills required
1.1 Environmental regulations applying to the enterprise are identified.
1.2 Procedures for assessing compliance with environmental regulations are evaluated for their effectiveness.
1.3 Information on environmental and resource efficiency systems and procedures is collected, and where
appropriate, provided to the work group.
1.4 Current resource usage is measured and documented by members of the work group.
1.5 Current purchasing strategies are analysed and documented.
1.6 Current work processes are analysed to identify areas for improvement
Understand basic environmental sustainability principles
Identify environmental laws, regulations and standards and why they are relevant to the work context and
animal care and management industries
Identify environmental resource management issues in the workplace
Measure resource use
Identify environmental and resource hazards and risks associated with the animal care sector in which the
individual works
Communicate information about environmental sustainability to the work group
Know requirements, procedures and processes within work area for all relevant environment/sustainability
legislation, regulations and codes of practice including resource hazards/risks associated with work area, job
specifications and procedures.
2. Set target for improvements
2.1 Input is sought from stakeholders, key personnel and specialists.
2.2 External sources of information and data are accessed, as required.
2.3 Alternative solutions to workplace environmental issues are evaluated.
2.4 Efficiency targets are set.
Comply with environmental management legislation and standards
Participate in workplace meetings and discussions related to environmentally sustainable work practices
Understand standards, guidelines and approaches to environmental sustainability relevant to the animal care
industry
Comments
Comments
39
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Performance criteria
Knowledge/skills required
Performance criteria
Knowledge/skills required
3. Implement performance improvement strategies
3.1 Techniques and tools are sourced to assist in achieving efficiency targets.
3.2 Continuous improvement strategies are applied to own work area and ideas and possible solutions are
communicated to work group and management.
3.3 Environmental and resource efficiency improvement plans for own work group are integrated with other
operational activities and are implemented.
3.4 Suggestions and ideas to improve the management of environmental and resource efficiency are sought from
stakeholders and acted upon where appropriate.
3.5 Costing strategies are implemented to fully value environmental assets.
Know procedures and processes relevant to the individual's work area that support environment and resource
efficiencies
Consult with the work group on implementation and improvements in environmental and energy efficiency
Implement management policies and procedures relating to environmental and energy efficiency relevant to
own work area
Understand best practice approaches and quality assurance systems relevant to the animal care industry
Identify strategies to maximise opportunities and minimise impacts relevant to the animal care industry
4. Monitor performance
4.1 Outcomes are documented and reports on targets are communicated to key personnel and stakeholders.
4.2 Strategies are evaluated.
4.3 New targets are set and new tools and strategies are investigated and applied.
4.4 Successful strategies are promoted and, where possible, participants are rewarded.
Manage organisation change associated with the implementation of environmentally sustainable work
practices
Use problem-solving skills to analyse problems, devise solutions and reflect on approaches taken
Understand quality assurance systems relevant to the animal care industry
Comments
Comments
40
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Glossary
This is an initial glossary. Learners will be required to add to this list throughout training.
Biocapacity
Biocapacity is the capacity of an area to provide resources and absorb wastes. When the
area's ecological footprint exceeds its biocapacity, unsustainability occurs.
Carbon
The element that is the chemical basis of all organic life.
Carbon accounting
The systematic measurement of carbon dioxide equivalents (comparison of other
materials impact to that of the polluting effects of a unit of carbon dioxide) emitted or
abated by an organisation or process.
Carbon footprint
The measure of greenhouse gas emissions attributed to an organisation, activity or event.
Carbon neutral
Where the net emission of greenhouse gas by an organisation, activity or event equals
zero carbon dioxide equivalents either through literal measurement or through the
production of green power equal to or in excess of what is needed or via carbon trading
strategies.
DAFF
Commonwealth Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
DCCEE
Commonwealth Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency
DSEWPaC
Commonwealth Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and
Communities
E-waste
Electrical equipment that is no longer wanted (it may or not be functioning). These
generally contain recyclable components as well as contaminants that need to be
managed.
Eco efficiency
Doing more with less and minimising environmental impacts.
Ecological Footprint
The size and environmental impact of the energy, water, waste and resources associated
with an activity, business or individual.
Ecosystem
The interaction of the non-living environment with plant, animal, fungal and microorganisms as one unit.
EPBC Act
The Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (the EPBC Act)
National Waste
Policy
The policy, agreed by all Australian Environment Ministers in November 2009, sets
Australia's waste management and resource recovery direction to 2020.
http://www.environment.gov.au/wastepolicy/index.html
Waste hierarchy
The concept of avoiding and minimising waste, followed by reuse, recycling, recovery and
finally, disposal.
41
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
References
ABC Radio Australia, Australia has seventh biggest ecological footprint, Australia, 2012, viewed 3 July
2012
http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/international/2012-05-15/australia-has-seventh-biggestecological-footprint/943730
ActewAGL, 2012, ActewAGL, Canberra ACT, viewed 3 July 2012,
http://www.actewagl.com.au/Help-and-advice/Energy-and-water-management/Energy-and-watersavings-calculator.aspx
AgriFood Skills Australia Limited, 2012, AgriFood Skills Australia Limited, Barton ACT, viewed 13
August 2012 http://www.agrifoodskills.net.au/
Castleford Veterinary Group, 2012, Castleford Veterinary Group, Whyalla South Australia, viewed 3
August 2012 http://www.whyallavet.com.au/Whyalla/whyallatitle.html
Commonwealth of Australia, Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, viewed
11 August 2012 http://www.comlaw.gov.au/Series/C2004A00485
Council of Australian Governments (COAG) Standing Council on Environment and Water, 2012,
National Environment Protection and Heritage Council, Canberra ACT, viewed 3 August 2012
http://www.ephc.gov.au/stewardship
Council of Australian Governments (COAG) and State and Territory Governments, Green Skills
Agreement 2009, Canberra ACT, viewed 3 July 2012
http://www.deewr.gov.au/Skills/Programs/WorkDevelop/ClimateChangeSustainability/Documents/
GSAgreement.pdf
Danville Area Community College, 2012, Danville Area Community College, viewed 3 August 2012
http://www.dacc.edu/sustainability/what.php
Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, 2012, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and
Forestry, Canberra ACT, viewed 4 July 2012, http://www.daff.gov.au/
Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, 2012, Department of Climate Change and
Energy Efficiency, Canberra ACT, viewed 3 July 2012
http://www.climatechange.gov.au/en/climate-change.aspx
Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, 2011, Securing a clean energy future, The
Australian Government’s Climate Change Plan, Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency,
Canberra ACT, viewed 4 July 2012
http://www.cleanenergyfuture.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Consolidated-Final.pdf
42
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Department of Environment & Climate Change, 2007, Storing and Handling Liquids: Environmental
Protection Participant’s Manual, Department of Environment & Climate Change, Parramatta NSW,
viewed 4 July 2012,
http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/resources/sustainbus/2007210liquidsManual.pdf
Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, 2012, Department of Environment and
Heritage Protection, Brisbane Queensland, viewed 3 July 2012,
http://www.derm.qld.gov.au/ecobiz/carbon-calculator.php
Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, 2012 Energy Facts, Department of
Environment and Heritage Protection, 2012, Department of Environment and Heritage Protection,
Brisbane Queensland, viewed 4 July 2012,
http://www.ehp.qld.gov.au/sustainability/energy_saving_facts.html
Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, 2011, Department
of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, Canberra ACT, viewed 4 July
2012, http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/about/index.html
Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, National Strategy
for Ecologically Sustainable Development (1992), 2011, Canberra ACT, viewed 3 July 2012
http://www.environment.gov.au/about/esd/index.html
Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, 2012, National
Waste Policy, Canberra ACT, viewed 3 August 2012
http://www.environment.gov.au/wastepolicy/index.html
Environment Protection Authority Victoria, 2012, Environment Protection Authority Victoria, Victoria
Australia, viewed 3 July 2012 http://www.epa.vic.gov.au/ecologicalfootprint/calculators/default.asp
Green Building Council of Australia, 2012, Green Building Council of Australia, Sydney NSW, viewed 3
August 2012
http://www.gbca.org.au/news/business-clean-up-good-for-the-bottom-line/393.htm
Green Vet Practice, 2012, Everyday choices, Green Vet Practice, Massachusetts USA, viewed 3 July
2012, http://greenvetpractice.com/02-choices.html
Green Vet Practice, 2012, Greening your practice, Green Vet Practice, Massachusetts USA, viewed 3
July 2012 http://greenvetpractice.com
Green Vet Practice, 2012, Strategies for Greening Your Practice, Green Vet Practice, Massachusetts
USA, viewed 4 July 2012
http://greenvetpractice.com/01-strategies.htm
Green Vet Practice, 2012, Greening the Operating Room Initiative Project Overview, Green Vet
Practice, Massachusetts USA, viewed 3 July 2012,
http://practicegreenhealth.org/sites/default/files/uploadfiles/gor_project_overview_oct2011_0.pdf
43
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
Green Vet Practice, 2012, Waste, Green Vet Practice, Massachusetts USA, viewed 4 July 2012
http://greenvetpractice.com/06-waste.htm
Hawkesbury City Council, 2012, Natural Strategies Group, Hawkesbury City Council, Hawkesbury
NSW, viewed 3 July 2102 http://sustainability.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/
Horses, Land and Water Community of Practice, Horse SA, Wayville South Australia, viewed 3 July
2012 http://www.horseslandwater.com/
International Institute of Sustainable Development, 2012, International Institute of Sustainable
Development, Winnipeg Canada, viewed 3 August 2012
http://www.iisd.org/business/sd_journey.asp
Landcare Australia, 2012, Landcare Australia, Chatswood NSW, viewed 3 August 2012
http://www.landcareonline.com.au/case-studies/
LandLearn, NSW Department of Primary Industries, viewed 3 July 2012
www.landlearnnsw.org.au/sustainability/primary-industries-and-sustainability
Office of Environment & Heritage, 2011, Office of Environment & Heritage, Sydney NSW, viewed 3
July 2012 http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/sustainability/index.htm
Office of Environment & Heritage, 2011, Office of Environment & Heritage, Sydney NSW, viewed 4
July 2012, www.environment.nsw.gov.au/sustainbus/dogwashers.htm
Office of Environment & Heritage, 2011, Storing and Handling Liquids: Environmental Protection,
Office of Environment & Heritage, Sydney NSW, viewed 4 July 2012,
http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/resources/sustainbus/2007210caseStudies.pdf
Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, Business Sustainability Roadmap,
Sustainable Industries Branch, Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection,
viewed 31 August 2012 www.derm.qld.gov.au/sustainability/pdf/siroadmap.pdf
Rodriquez, S.I., M.S. Roman, S.H. Sturhahn, E.H. Terry. 2002. Sustainability Assessment and
Reporting for the University of Michigan's Ann Arbor Campus. University Master's Project. University
of Michigan: Ann Arbor: 1-396, viewed 3 July 2012
http://css.snre.umich.edu/css_doc/CSS02-04.pdf
Sandy Doig, ‘A case study- horse keeping on the Doig property’, Scott Creek South Australia, viewed
31 August 2012
http://horseslandwater.com/zdocument/file/21/Doig_report.pdf
State Government of Victoria, 2012, Environment Protection Authority, Victoria Australia, last
viewed 3 August 2012 http://www.epa.vic.gov.au/
44
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
State Government of Victoria, 2010, resourceSmart, State Government of Victoria, viewed 31 August
2012
http://sustainabilitysearch.funnelback.com/search/search.cgi?query=monitoring+schedule&collection=sustainabilityvic
&binary=1&form=documents
Sustainability explained through animation 2010, online video, RealEyes Ireland, viewed 3 July 2012,
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B5NiTN0chj0&feature=related
Taronga Conservation Society Australia, 2012, Taronga Zoo, Mosman NSW, viewed 4 July 2012,
http://taronga.org.au/taronga-zoo
Taronga Conservation Society Australia, 2010, Taronga Conservation Society Australia, Sydney New
South Wales, viewed 3 August 2012
http://www.taronga.org.au/animals-conservation/sustainability/environmental-sustainability%3c
Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, 2001, Centre for Conservation Medicine, North
Grafton Massachusetts, viewed 4 July 2012, http://vet.tufts.edu/ccm
Victorian Employers’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Victorian Government, 2011,
Green Champion Guide, Victorian Employers’ Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Victorian
Government, Victoria Australia, viewed 3 August 2012
http://www.whatcanidorightnow.com.au/sites/default/files/assets/Green_Champion.pdf
Working towards sustainability 2007, online video, Tru Eco Committee, viewed 3 July 2012,
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1keHWhdzTTE&feature=related
World Commission on Environment and Development, The Brundtland Report ‘Our Common Future’,
1987
World Wildlife Fund (WWF), 2012, Footprint calculator, viewed 3 July 2012
http://www.wwf.org.au/our_work/people_and_the_environment/human_footprint/footprint_calcu
lator/
World Wildlife Fund, Living Planet Report 2008, viewed 3 July 2012
http://wwf.panda.org/about_our_earth/all_publications/
Zoo and Aquarium Association, 2012, Zoo and Aquarium Association, Mosman NSW, viewed 4 July
2012, www.zooaquarium.org.au
Zoo and Aquarium Association, Legislative Requirements, Zoo and Aquarium Association, Mosman
NSW, viewed 31 August 2012, http://www.zooaquarium.org.au/index.php/pressreleases/legislative-requirements/
10 ways to “GO GREEN”, online video, viewed 3 July 2012
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kS6JN67DWtc&feature=related
45
Learner Guide
ACMSUS301A
Implement & monitor environmentally
sustainable work practices
THIS IS THE FINAL PAGE OF THIS DOCUMENT.
46
Download