Sustainable Business Development

Where is the Revolution

Though this program the AMC and DSRD have assisted participating companies to become part of a worldwide growing revolution which is about how manufacturing needs to re-invent what it "takes, makes and wastes".

"The next industrial revolution will be a response to changing patterns of scarcity (in natural resources and the ecological systems that provide vital life support services). It will create upheaval, but more importantly opportunities. Business must be adjust to these new realities.' Paul Hawken, business leader, environmentalist and author.

This time of revolution is not part of the distant future, companies around the world have already began the challenge to incorporate sustainable development into their business practices. As Paul Hawkin indicates it is time of change, and companies will need to respond to these changes. In order for companies to have a targeted response their people need to be equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge and understanding to be able to harness the opportunities that will arise. This program has provided the foundation for this revolution within the Western Sydney Region.

A revolution in Thinking. The first step in achieving change is the recognition that a change in thinking is required of conventional processes are to give away to sustainable practices. Through awareness, education and discussion a constructive interchange has been established between manufacturers, service providers, academics and consultants which will drive the process in the future.

A revolution in Approach. The program provided a forum for developing and nurturing partnerships between industry and the public sector, to support a participatory and inclusive response to issues of sustainability leading to new goals and techniques.

A revolution in Action. The program has provided technology diffusion on range of tools that provide methods for incorporating aspects of sustainability into standard operations. The industry leaders have also provided real life case studies of the successes they have had in this area. These act as a catalyst and solid foundation from which other companies can learn and use in their metamorphosis to sustainable enterprises.

A revolution in Resource Use - literally! Closing the loop is one of the main achievements that companies can accomplish readily. By considering the whole life cycle of their products, and the materials that go into their manufacture, companies can evaluate their extended producer responsibility and work towards minimising waste by closing the resource loop completely.