Clean and Clever Business
What is the Clean and Clever Project?
Since 2009, BIEDO has been working with the Inland Burnett community on a major major project called "Clean and Clever Inland" a project backed by funding from DEEDI through their Queensland Regional Development Initiative. For heaps of details on this project, see our latest 'Clean and Clever' Newsletter.
Helping local Business get 'Clean and Clever'
A key part of the project is helping local busines to get 'Clean and Clever'. Some of the initiatives involved include:
- helping to source and write funding applications for businesses and local government to refit with eco-systems
- a 'Clean and Clever' newsletter with heaps of tips and information for local businesses
- Business surveys so we can find out what you have already implemented, your thoughts on Clean and Clever, and even if you're not planning to implement any practices, we would like to understand your priorities.
Links
Click here to find some great links to help your business find out more about being "Clean and Clever".
Clean and Clever 'Action Plan'
Many primary producers and town-based businesses throughout the Inland Burnett participated in BIEDO’s Clean and Clever surveys. The result is the draft “Action Plan for a Clean and Clever Burnett Inland” which was launched in June 2011.
The Action Plan is the first phase of the BIEDO’s Clean and Clever project and it identifies a comprehensive series of recommendations for action to help the Inland Burnett transition to an innovative, vibrant Green Economy that is sustainable, responsible and inter-connected with social and environmental imperatives.
Results from the survey show that our Inland Burnett businesses are very keen to know and understand more about sustainable and clever technologies and how they can get involved. However, they also have concerns around financial commitments and their ability to implement changes, especially those who lease their premises. And that’s where the Action Plan steps in! We’re hoping to generate enthusiasm and interest in creating a Green Economy, while at the same time helping businesses understand the practical steps and real costs involved. For example, some of the Plan’s recommendations include:
- Creating demonstration sites showcasing different green technologies, and providing hands-on interactive displays at
shopping centres, Council foyers, in the main street and at local shows. This will give people knowledge so they can make more informed decisions about whether they want to take-up Clean and Clever ideas - Helping local businesses share their information about using different green technologies/products. We hope some businesses will become local ‘Champions’ who can showcase outcomes and share cost and benefit info e.g. impact on the bottom line
- Investigate landlord-tenant options for businesses who lease their premises so all parties can be more informed about the implications of energy, water and waste efficient buildings
Throughout the survey process, BIEDO also started discussions with some business who are keen to implement changes such as reducing electricity consumption, maximising water savings and collection, reducing waste, looking for recycling options and reusing by-products.
More opportunities for you to be involved!
Over the next six months, we’ll be continuing to research and seek your feedback on the "Clean and Clever' project. For more information contact Tameka Gogerly, BIEDO’s Clean and Clever Coordinator on: 0400 723 070 or email biedocleanandclever@burnett.net.au
