Released 26/07/2018
The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands has become an accredited Actsmart business after implementing measures to improve its sustainability, Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability Shane Rattenbury said today.
There are now 14 embassies which are signed up to the Actsmart Business Recycling program.
“After receiving a free onsite assessment by the Actsmart team, the Netherlands Embassy was provided with an action plan outlining ways to increase recycling and reduce waste,” Mr Rattenbury said.
“The Embassy acted on a number of the recommendations, helping it become more environmentally responsible. It was able to remove one of its waste bins to effectively halve what they send to landfill.
“An onsite worm farm for organic waste has also been introduced, which helps reduce methane emissions from landfill. Staff now also bring in fresh produce from their gardens to share with other team members.
“Signing up to one Actsmart’s program not only has many benefits for the environment, it is also a smart commercial decision,” Mr Rattenbury said.
“In addition to reducing its waste considerably through the Actsmart program, the Netherlands Embassy has installed a 27.2 kW solar system allowing it to capture energy from the sun – helping to reduce its electricity bills while lowering greenhouse gas emissions.
“The Embassy has also implemented a number of other environmentally responsible measures, including the installation of a fully recyclable floor, double-glazed windows, timers for heating and cooling, and a rainwater tank for garden irrigation and toilet flushing.
“I commend the staff of the embassy for their commitment to best practice in sustainability.”
For more information about Actsmart’s program please visit actsmart.act.gov.au.
- Statement ends -
Shane Rattenbury, MLA | Media Releases
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