Environmental Technologies Overview

Environmentally Sound Technologies are not just "individual technologies, but total systems, which include know-how, procedures, goods and services, and equipment as well as organizational and managerial procedures".

These technologies have resulted in significant energy savings, waste reduction, increased productivity, lowered emissions, and improved product quality for Australian and International manufacturers.

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation & Development (OECD) (website: www.oecd.org) has defined the environment industry sector as including those activities, which measure, prevent, limit or correct environmental damage to water, air and soil, as well as problems related to noise, waste and ecosystems. It also includes cleaner technologies, products and services that reduce environmental risk and minimize pollution and resource use.

Australia has competitive strengths across a broad range of activities, including analytical and consulting services, water technologies and equipment, waste management and recycling, land rehabilitation, monitoring and sensing instruments and systems. The competitiveness of Australia's environment industry sector is enhanced by the quality of the relevant research base, exemplified by the four water Cooperative Research Centers (CRCs) and strong CSIRO capabilities in many areas.

The environment industry is a critical enabling sector for mainstream industries to build their business, where success is increasingly linked to triple bottom line (economic, social and environmental) performance.