There are tools and services to help you manage environmental issues in your business.
On this page:
Eco mapping
Carbon calculator
Eco mapping
Eco mapping is a free visual tool that helps small-to-medium sized enterprises (SMEs) analyse and manage their environment-related activities. It is also a useful tool for larger businesses.
Developed by European environment champion Heinz-Werner Engel, eco mapping is an easy, cost-effective way to meet the environmental obligations of your business and become more eco-efficient.
Eco mapping is a step-by-step process that involves making ‘mud maps’ of key environment-related activities in your business:
- water consumption
- waste
- noise and air emissions
- soil contamination
- environmental risks.
From this, you can develop a broader environmental management system, commonly known as an EMS. An EMS provides you with a structured way of managing areas of your business operations that hold risks for the environment. You can eventually apply for certification to standards such as ISO 14001 for your EMS. Contact the EPA for information about the process.
With eco mapping, while some tasks are undertaken in the office, most involve engaging staff on the shop floor. To be successful, eco mapping requires the commitment of management and the involvement of all employees.
It is a good idea to take ‘before and after’ photos of areas you are targeting for improvement - this is a great way to celebrate achievements with your staff.
Contact the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) for a copy of a free CD titled Environmental Management System - Using Econ Maps.
Introduction sessions
The EPA offers introduction sessions on eco mapping.
Case studies
Eco mapping is being used by more than 200 businesses in the Adelaide Hills wine region to create and manage the region's environmental management system.
[top of page]
Carbon calculator
The Carbon Calculator provided by TAFE SA measures the carbon footprint of your home and offers ways to reduce it. The calculator is readily adaptable to use with your business.
TAFE SA also offers the Green Office Guide.
[top of page]
More information
On this siteWasteRecyclingBusiness sustainabilityOther websitesEcomapping networkInternational Network of Environmental ManagementHeinz-Werner Engel: founder of eco mappingVideos
Why eco mapping? – Peter Dolan, Director of Science & Sustainability, Environment Protection Authority (SA)
Origins of Eco mapping – Heinz-Werner Engel, Founder of Eco mapping
Eco mapping demonstration Part 1 – Bryce Routley, Eco-efficiency project officer, Environment Protection Authority (SA)
Eco mapping demonstration Part 2 – Bryce Routley, Eco-efficiency project officer, Environment Protection Authority (SA)