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6 August 2008
More than 7.6 million Australian businesses could face higher
costs as a result of the proposed emissions trading scheme – and
the time to start planning is now, according to GHD principal
environmental scientist Dr Matt Searson.
While the Federal Government’s Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme
targets Australia’s major polluters, Dr Searson has forewarned that
the scheme will challenge many businesses to think about their
energy use.
Dr Searson said the proposed emissions trading scheme could push
up the cost of basic business overheads such as electricity, gas,
water and even paper if energy efficiency options are not
considered and implemented.
Dr Searson, who will address the Canberra Business Council
Outlook 2020 Forum on August 7,said: “The scheme has been designed
to cover most of the economy, either directly or indirectly. For
non-liable parties, some 7.6 million Australian businesses,
preparation for the scheme will principally involve examining
energy efficiency options and at what point to invest in these
options”.
He said addressing energy efficiency was the best way to
minimise the effects of the scheme for smaller businesses. And he
said the proposed framework for emissions trading gave Australian
businesses a 5 to 10 year head start for planning, with the price
effects of scheme not expected to kick in for some time.
“By addressing energy efficiency, business is also participating
in achieving the environmental aim of the scheme – reducing
Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions,” he said.
Dr Searson is an environmental scientist who specialises in
climate change, carbon accounting and emissions management. He
previously worked for the Department of Climate Change, developing
policy to manage the voluntary carbon marketing and administering
the Greenhouse Friendly Initiative.
GHD is a leader in the area of sustainability. The company
assists public and private sector businesses to explore
opportunities to reduce their environmental impacts, maximise their
efficiencies and develop strategies for continuous improvement.
Leading climate change authority and Reserve Bank Board Member,
Professor Warwick McKibbin will also speak at the Outlook 2020
Forum.
When: Thursday, August 7, 12.30pm-2pm.
Where: Hyatt Hotel Canberra
GHD employs 6000 people in a network of offices throughout
Australia, New Zealand, Asia, the Middle East, Americas and
Europe.
For further information, contact:
Mandi Zonneveldt