Office of Environment and Heritage sustainability framework

The Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) has several existing internal programs promoting sustainability. While individually significant they were operating largely independently of each other resulting in lost opportunities, inefficiencies and a waste of resources.

To tie these programs together into a more cohesive strategy a single internally focused framework was developed to reduce OEH's overall environmental footprint. To develop the framework, in November 2005 the Executive approved the formation of an Executive Sub-committee and working group representing all divisions within the organisation. A framework was developed that focuses on six key environmental issues facing OEH:

• Energy consumption
• Water consumption and efficiency
• Waste and resource recovery
• Vehicles and consumables (fuel, oil, lubricants)
• Chemical use and toxics
• Staff and community education

A three-year action plan based on the successful Sustainability Compact framework was developed that could be used as a model for other NSW Government agencies. Within the framework structure, OEH continues to actively promote sustainability within its operations. Examples of action taken is outlined within other sections of this website.

The framework and action plan are reviewed annually to ensure it keeps up with current issues. For example, carbon management has now become a key focal point of OEH's efforts to reduce its footprint and will be incorporated into revisions of the framework.