More than 1,400 western Sydney businesses were acknowledged last week for their sustainability efforts after participating in the State Government’s business efficiency programs.
Penrith MP Stuart Ayres was on hand to congratulate business owners at the Penrith RSL.
He said by participating in the government’s programs, businesses including butchers, day care centres, grocers, hotels, pharmacies and service stations saved an enormous $11 million per year on bills.
“I am surprised by what these businesses have achieved through improved efficiency,” Mr Ayres said.
“They are saving on water, energy and waste, while still improving the environment and increasing profits.”
Penrith glass and bottle producer, OI Sydney, has cut water use by 40 kilolitres per day, halved the amount of waste it sends to landfill and uses 10 per cent less energy after increasing productivity by 15 per cent.
Mr Ayres said small businesses were also improving environmental performance and saving on power costs through the Energy Efficiency for Small Business Program.
Nepean Boltmaster at Penrith, which supplies nuts and bolts and building products, received $5,000 in matched funds to upgraded lighting and air-conditioning. They are saving more than $4,555 and 21-megawatt hours of electricity per year.
Administered by the Office of Environment and Heritage, the five key programs available for businesses are Sustainability Advantage, Energy Saver, NABERS and the Energy Efficiency for Small Business and Energy Efficiency Training Programs.
