Working Sustainably
A number of processes have been developed to embed sustainability into our day-to-day work. To ensure that sustainability is considered in project planning and design, we introduced triple bottom line guidelines in 2007. The guidelines assist decision-making for projects involving capital expenditure in excess of $1 million.
Along with our Community, Environment and Public Health Assessment (CEPHA) checklist, these guidelines facilitate the delivery of projects that provide the greatest benefits to the community and the environment, while meeting efficiency requirements for public spending.
Our Environment and Public Health Management System (PDF, 18kb) sets management requirements to help protect the environment, prevent pollution and improve environmental performance.
Program alliances
In 2008-2009 we transformed our approach to capital delivery by introducing alliance contracts. Among other incentives, this approach rewards enhanced social and environmental outcomes. Alliances can improve sustainability through the program outcomes and/or through ‘above and beyond’ performance for environment and innovation.
Sustainability is also considered in tender and contract specifications, such as the rigorous sustainability requirements agreed to by Melbourne Water’s preferred printers.
Fleet policy
Our Sustainable Fleet Policy requires managers to choose from five vehicles within four categories (guided by the National Green Vehicle Guide). Incentives promote the uptake of no car or the choice of cars with the highest fuel-efficiency, lowest emissions and a high level of safety.
Other green policies
An overarching Environment Policy (PDF, 57kb) guides our business in meeting our environmental obligations. This is supported by a number of other polices and strategies that provide direction for our activities (e.g. Biodiversity Strategy, Pest Animal Strategy & Guidelines, Regional River Health Strategy, Sites of Biodiversity Significance programs).
A Sustainable Procurement Policy (PDF, 101kb) and associated guidelines have a positive influence on our supply chain. Revised versions of these tools will allow employees to take into account financial, environmental and social aspects when making purchases.