Low Carbon milestone: Australia’s major companies avoid 1 million tonnes of carbon pollution annually

Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency Mark Dreyfus today applauded members of Low Carbon Australia’s Carbon Neutral Program for avoiding more than 1 million tonnes of greenhouse gas pollution and providing a role model for other businesses.

“Some of the nation’s leading companies including CBRE, ANZ, Qantas, Virgin, National Australia Bank and Sensis have voluntarily joined the Carbon Neutral Program, which provides recognition of their efforts to reduce and offset their carbon pollution,” said Dreyfus.

“More than 27 Carbon Neutral Program members understand the need to take action and are now changing their operating practices to avoid more than 1 million tonnes of pollution every year.

“It’s a very substantial reduction. It equates to avoiding the pollution that would be created by over 285 million cars.”

Dreyfus acknowledged the milestone at the Sydney Market Outlook - a highly regarded event for the property industry which brings together 500 representatives of Australia’s largest commercial building owners and occupiers.

In particular, Dreyfus and Low Carbon Australia Chairman Mike Rann congratulated commercial real estate services firm CBRE 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 Rann.

“Low Carbon Australia certifies its program participants using the National Carbon Offset Standard, defined by the Australian Government.

“This provides a clear reassurance to consumers that certified products, services or organisations have met strict criteria.

“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.”