EPA Internal Cap and Trade Scheme

Introduction

For the 2009 calendar year, EPA Victoria ran an internal Carbon Cap and Trade scheme between its seven sites.  At the beginning of the scheme we anticipated an overall reduction of 3%. The program proved to be significantly more successful; EPA achieved a 24.5 % reduction across emission sources covered by the scheme, and an average of 22% reduction across the sites involved. 

EPA is committed to achieving real reductions in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. We have been carbon neutral since 2005/06 and continue to reduce our energy use and direct and indirect GHG emissions through various other activities including fleet management and greening of our buildings.

Whilst alternative options existed for driving GHG emission reductions (e.g. performance management processes), we recognised significant additional benefits would be gained through the design and implementation of a internal Carbon Cap and Trade scheme.

Some of these benefits include:

• engaging all staff in discovering cost effective ways to reduce our emissions
• assisting our clients by learning first hand about emissions trading and managing the impacts a price on carbon creates,. There has been serious consideration of an emissions trading scheme (ETS) both in Australia and various other countries around the world.  Regardless of the outcome of these discussions, a future carbon price in some form looks likely and will impact upon nearly all businesses in some way. 
• enhancing our reputation though an innovative program to reduce our own GHG emissions and demonstrate best practice. 

 

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