Clean and Clever Inland
What is the Clean and Clever Project?
Since 2009, BIEDO has been working with the Inland Burnett community on a major project called "Clean and Clever Inland". For heaps of details on the progress of this project, see our latest 'Clean and Clever' Newsletter. 'Clean and Clever' is a combination of several projects including:
- Clean and Clever Regional Strategic Plan (funded by DEEDI) - see story below
- Clean and Clever Business
- Clean and Clever Councils Regional Waste Management Initiative
- BIEDO Community Permaculture Gardens
- Change Champions 2011/12 (funded by the Australian Government)
- Next Gen Farmers Project 2010/11 (funded by the Australian Government)
- Recognising Women Farmers (2010/11)
Links
Click here to find some great links to help your business, farm or household become "Clean and Clever".
Clean and Clever Burnett Inland Draft Action Plan Released
Many thanks to the hundreds of primary producers, town-based businesses, schools and community members throughout the Inland Burnett who 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 (funded by DEEDI) 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!
We’ll be continuing to research and talk with local businesses throughout the Inland Burnett about what you have already implemented, your thoughts on Clean and Clever, and even if you are not planning to implement any practices, we would like to understand your priorities. For more information contact Tameka Gogerly, BIEDO’s Clean and Clever Coordinator on: 0400 723 070 or email biedocleanandclever@burnett.net.au
