- There is scientific consensus on the reality of climate change. It is happening, and it has serious implications – for our ecosystems, our health, our economy and our future.
www.greenhouse.vic.gov.au
Welcome
Welcome to the Department of Human Services environment site. Here, you will find information about the department's commitment to reducing its environmental impact and a range of tools and links designed to assist in achieving that vision.
Background
The Victorian Government is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its operations. All government departments are required to develop an Environmental Management System for office-based facilities. All government departments and agencies are required to reduce energy usage by 20 per cent by 2010 based on 1999 levels.
The Department of Human Services has developed an environmental policy to support the government's policy, with the aim of reducing the environmental and health impacts of service delivery.
While the department and agencies provide a high level of care, the nature of service provision is energy intensive and generates substantial waste.
The department is committed to minimising the environmental impacts associated with providing services. The department recognises the link between environmental and human health.
More information on the Victorian Government policy.
Environmental and energy initiatives
The department has undertaken a number of energy and environmental initiatives; these include:
- energy reporting on the department's and agencies energy consumption, including the development of an energy reporting software tool
- establishment of an Environmental Improvement Fund for existing public hospitals
- development of Sustainability Guidelines for new facilities applying to projects over $10 million, including a 2.5% direct capital allocation for ESD elements
- completion during 2004 of a number of new energy efficient health and aged care facilities, which incorporate a range of innovations including geothermal energy, tempered slab and solar hot water systems and greater energy emphasis on passive heating and cooling
- the Victorian Cogeneration project
- the provision of large scale solar hot water and energy efficient five-star new public housing.