Business communities in Parramatta and Auburn have put their hands up in the name of sustainability with over thirty businesses committing to the Duck River Sustainable Business Program.

Parramatta and Auburn City Councils commissioned a study to provide a clear understanding of the specific needs and issues that contribute to business sustainability within the Duck River Catchment area.

“The Business Needs Assessment has allowed both Councils to engage with organisations to identify their concerns. We will now be able to support businesses to adopt sustainable practice and allow them to realise the financial, environmental and social benefits of sustainability,” said Environmental planner, Amanda Carroll, Auburn City Council.

“The study revealed that waste management is one of the biggest environmental concerns for businesses. This will be the start of an ongoing relationship between local businesses and Council to ensure that our environment is being looked after,” said Ms Carroll.

A number of businesses within the Duck River Catchment area are now working closely with both Councils to implement a range of environmental practices to make them more sustainable.

“It is encouraging that so many businesses have already signed up to be part of this program. Now we have established the needs and the issues of the businesses in the catchment area, we can move forward in developing practical programs that they can easily participate in and benefit from,” said Mayor of Auburn City Council Irene Simms.

“The Duck River Sustainable Business Program is important to any organisation who would like to successfully run a sustainable business through a range of activities and programs,” said the Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr Tony Issa OAM. “

“Our partnership with Sydney Water and the Department of Environment and Climate Change shows that we are committed to helping businesses in our industrial areas become more environmentally sustainable,” Cr Issa said.

Parramatta City Council is currently in the process of recruiting new businesses for the Duck River Sustainable Business Program.

“This Sustainable Business Program makes it easy for business to participate and contribute to a sustainable society and I really encourage them to be a part of this program,” said Parramatta City Council, Project Manager Wendy Read.

For more information please contact Wendy Read Project Manager – Business Sustainability on 9806 5419 or email wread@parracity.nsw.gov.au.