Eco-Activites and Social Contributions Page Current eco-measures: As an organization who is involved in the Children's Services industry, we believe our role extends to mentoring and supporting services to achieve sustainable programming. As such, we also acknowledge that part of this belief and responsibility needs to be role modeled by our team. Practical Outcomes believe in a sustainable future where children can grow and thrive. As such, we place an important emphasis on the following eco-activities. As we grow, we will endeavour to expand our social contributions. Paper savingWe are aware that new paper is bleached and that this bleach (dioxin) is a serious carcinogenic and can cause water pollution. In addition to using recycled paper, folders and other stationary, we also have an office policy of re-using the blank side of used paper. We do not recycle documents that include personal information or of a personal nature- these documents are cross shredded. Where possible, we use electronic versions and print only when essential. We have a suggestion added to all company emails recommending that the recipient consider the environment prior to printing. Where practical, training materials for sessions are reusable and we also use practical assessment including photos with the exception of some paper-based evidence required for auditing. We are currently investigating elimination of student manuals where practical so electronic versions can be sent by email. We recognise however that our students will have individual learning styles and that this method does not suit all. We have also selected recycled card for our business cards and these are also of a slightly smaller size to save the amount of card required.
RecyclingWith many years in the industry, we are all natural collectors of safe reusable materials. We use these in our training sessions and often donate these resources to services and clients. We are also members of Reverse Art Truck Inc. We continually work with clients to introduce sustainable and recycled products into their learning environments.
Office EnvironmentThroughout our working day, we use natural sunlight and fresh air for light, heating and cooling. We actively try to avoid air-conditioning and heating unless essential for the care of staff and clients. When in use, heating and cooling is zoned to be effective in the areas that are in use. Computers are set to switch off after a period of inactivity and printers are set up for optimal energy efficiency.
Water SavingThe majority of our staff have water tanks and so collect and save their own water supply. Some staff at their home offices have a water supply of tank water only and others use their tank water for their water wise gardens, so we are all aware of how much water we consume. This knowledge is passed on to interested clients. Safe grey water is collected from home offices and used for gardens.
Selecting ResourcesWe are conscious when selecting resources and we ensure whenever available, we select fair-trade products that support communities in developing nations. We endeavour to buy Australian owned and made products. | 