Clean and Clever Action Plan Draft Released

3rd August 2011

Many thanks to the hundreds of primary producers, town-based businesses, schools and community members throughout the Inland Burnett who recently 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. The draft plan will be open for public comment and will be available on the BIEDO) website at www.biedo.org.au.

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.

And the work doesn’t stop there! We’ll be continuing to research and talk with local businesses throughout the Inland Burnett about what they have already implemented, their thoughts on Clean and Clever, and even if they are not planning to implement any practices, we would like to understand their priorities.

For more information contact Tameka Gogerly, BIEDO’s Clean and Clever Coordinator on: 0400 723 070 or email biedocleanandclever@burnett.net.au