Why Green Skills

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• Risks
• Opportunities
• Did you know?

The NSW Government is committed to supporting NSW businesses to take up the opportunities created by climate change and resource scarcity and to operate more sustainably.

Studies show that concern for the environment is top of mind for most Australians.

Over recent years, consumers’ expectations of the responsibilities of business towards the environment have dramatically changed.

Our communities expect businesses, large and small, to set a good example.

Risks

Businesses that don’t pay attention to their environmental impact risk their reputation with a range of stakeholders – your customers, shareholders and employees.  

Opportunities

But there are opportunities to be harnessed here too. Being sustainable can protect your brand and reputation.

This section shows how green skilling your workforce is an enabling strategy for your existing business plan:

• green products and services are a point of difference that customers are demanding.

• environmental training your staff is good for your bottom line.

• learning to be sustainable at work improves staff morale.

• it reduces the risk of your business infringing regulations.

• can help position your company to access new market opportunities brought about by a new low carbon economy.

• there are financial incentives available.

Did you know?

9 out of 10 Australians believe it’s important for companies to ‘consider the impact of their operations on the environment and community and not just make profits.’

In 2008, 66% of businesses had actively sought information on how to reduce their impact on the environment and 54% had implemented at least one new initiative in the last year. Planet Ark