Going green

10 March 2022

Often automotive isn’t front of mind when we talk about sustainability or the environment. But maybe it should be!

The automotive industry is driving important change and helping Australia clean up its act. My mates at the Victorian Automotive Chamber of Commerce (VACC) certainly take their environmental efforts seriously – that goes for the support, tools and advice they provide their member-businesses, as well as head office efforts. What’s that saying? Lead by example…

VACC has a dedicated Occupational Health, Safety and Environment (OHS&E) unit which provides over-the-phone, digital and face-to-face advice and information to help their member-businesses stay on top of OHS responsibilities and environmental law. They also drive a national program called Green Stamp, an initiative rewarding businesses that introduce environmental and sustainability measures into day-to-day operations.

Then there’s Tyre Stewardship Australia (TSA), formed to implement the national Tyre Product Stewardship Scheme. By choosing TSA Accredited participants, $0.25c from your new tyres goes towards finding sustainable markets and a new life for your old ones. Sounds pretty good to me.

VACC has its sights set on Canberra in a bid to up the ante when it comes to industry environmental efforts on a national scale. With a federal election looming this year, the Chamber has released its manifesto, REVolution: The automotive industry’s policy priorities for the next Australian Government which includes specific environment recommendations.

Did you know 750,000 vehicles reach the end of their economic lives every year, creating more than one million tonnes of waste? VACC dismantling and recycling member-businesses have dedicated substantial resources and are currently collaborating with authorities to identify options for an End-of-Life Vehicle program in Australia. They want to stop this cycle – but the government needs to play ball.

Even the Chamber’s new office in North Melbourne reflects the group’s values and environmentally conscious commitment. The building has a five-star green rating – representing Australian excellence in environmentally sustainable building practices. Even the basement car has electric charging stations. Can’t wait for a tour!

Businesses being proactive when it comes to the environment, I love to see it. Just another reason to look for orange sign, I’d say.

See ya on the road, folks!

Words: VACC ambassador Shane Jacobson.

Want to hear more from Shane? Catch him – along with co-hosts Greg Rust and VACC CEO, Geoff Gwilym – on THE GRILLE podcast each month. There'll be auto news and views, industry insights and trends, special guests, and plenty of laughs along the way. Visit: thegrillepodcast.com.au