EPA Victoria guides businesses on emission reduction

Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) has released draft guidance for managing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions for public consultation.

When finalised, the document will be a ‘How To’ for Victorian businesses, giving practical advice, examples and case studies so they can understand their greenhouse gas emissions and take reasonable actions to meet their responsibilities.

While the Victorian Government works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions at the state level, this document is designed to equip individual businesses to make a measurable difference at the factory, shop or office.

The Draft guideline for managing greenhouse gas emissions follows the commencement of Victoria’s Environment Protection Act 2017 on 1 July 2021. Central to this Act is a general environmental duty (GED) that requires all Victorians to proactively manage risks to human health and the environment.

“Greenhouse gas emissions are produced by all businesses and pose risks to our environment and human health because they contribute to climate change risks,” said EPA CEO Lee Miezis.

“Under Victoria’s new environment protection laws, GHG emissions are defined as waste, and businesses with direct or indirect GHG emissions need to understand and manage their emissions to minimise risks.

“EPA’s final guidance will aim to help businesses assess their GHG emissions and implement controls to minimise risks as far as reasonably practicable,” Mr Miezis said.

Public consultation on EPA’s draft GHG guidance is open until 5pm Tuesday 8 February 2022.

Submissions can be lodged electronically via the Engage Victoria website.

Final guidance is expected to be published in August 2022.