Clean Energy Future

Some of the country’s leading companies—including ANZ, QANTAS, Virgin, NAB, Sensis and CBRE—have helped the National Carbon Offset Standard (NCOS) Carbon Neutral Program reach a major milestone.

Businesses working with the Carbon Neutral Program are now avoiding more than 1 million tonnes of pollution every year.

NCOS is administered by Low Carbon Australia, an independent company established by the Australian Government.

Parliamentary Secretary for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, Mark Dreyfus, has congratulated members of the Program for providing a role model for other businesses.

‘More than 27 Carbon Neutral Program members understand the need to take action and are now changing their operating practices.

‘One million tonnes is a very substantial reduction. It equates to avoiding the pollution that would be created by about a quarter of a million cars.’

Mr Dreyfus acknowledged the milestone at the Sydney Market Outlook—a property industry event that brings together 500 representatives of Australia’s largest commercial building owners and occupiers.

In particular, Mr Dreyfus and Low Carbon Australia Chairman Mike Rann congratulated CBRE, the world’s biggest commercial real estate services firm, for joining the program and its commitment to reducing carbon pollution through sustainable operating practices.

‘Carbon Neutral participants measure their greenhouse gas pollution, reduce it as much as possible and offset the emissions that cannot be reduced or avoided,’ said Mr Rann.

‘Low Carbon Australia certifies its program participants using the NCOS, defined by the Australian Government.

‘This provides a clear reassurance to consumers that certified products, services or organisations have met strict criteria,’ he said.

‘The beauty of our Carbon Neutral Program is that organisations wanting to reduce their carbon footprint can achieve their goal with the help of products and services offered by members of the Carbon Neutral Network.’