Good environmental management reduces risk, increases savings through more efficient use of resources and reduced waste, and provides opportunities for business to build long-term value.

Sustainability Advantage helps companies translate their interest in improving environmental performance into action.

A new program introduced by the Department of Environment and Conservation NSW (DEC), works with companies to strengthen their environmental planning, improve the performance of their suppliers, and increase employee retention and productivity.

"A business cannot be sustainable if it doesn't make a profit and grow" said David Trewin, DEC Manager Business Partnerships.

"However, the business risks associated with the environment are going to continue to grow and a business needs a long term vision to remain viable."

"Many companies are already working to comply with government standards on energy, water and packaging. This program allows them to co-ordinate these activities through one program and seize other opportunities to deliver tangible business benefits" he said.

Through Sustainability Advantage companies evaluate their current environmental performance and the DEC provides the relevant expertise, training and tools required for each business to develop environmental projects that will deliver the best results for their company.

Household names such as Goodman Fielder, Coca-Cola and Kellogg's are already participating in Sustainability Advantage, and these companies have included environmental sustainability as part of their long-term vision.

Companies wanting to add value to their business can contact:

David Trewin on (02) 8837 6096 or email: david.trewin@environment.nsw.gov.au, or
Valerie Insall on (02) 8837 6035 or email: valerie.insall@environment.nsw.gov.au

>> More info - www.environment.nsw.gov.au