Anglicare is implementing a new environmental initiative to encourage staff to be mindful of their environmental impact.  Our services in ACT will need to accomodate the new ban on single-use plastics from 1 July 2021 but the Anglicare Executive have introduced a policy banning the use of single-use plastics that will apply across the whole organisation.

This policy encourages staff to recycle plastics wherever possible using kerbside recycling programs or container deposit schemes. It also prohibits the use of the following types of single use plastics: single use plastic cutlery, beverage stirrers, shopping bags and polystyrene containers for food.

Where these types of plastics are used within services, staff are encouraged to find reusable, recyclable or biodegradable alternatives. Other types of single use plastics such as plastic straws and cling wrap will still be permitted, however, where possible, more environmentally friendly products should be used.

With 65 different locations in NSW and ACT, we know that by making simple changes we can make a significant impact to our environmental footprint. The graphics below highlight 10 ways our offices can contribute to ‘going green’!

More information and strategies will be available soon.

Maxmise the printer by setting it to minimise paper and toner. Only print what is needed. And use recycled paper!

Replace individual trash and recycling containers with centralised ones in each office to encourage recycling.

Literally. Bring in plants to help filter the air you breathe and produce oxygen.

Make use of the sleep and auto power off features on all electronic devices.

Remove plugs from outlets and turn off power strips to eliminate the “phantom load”.

Make sure your office has energy saving or LED bulbs. Turn off lights when not needed.

Harsh cleaners can be toxic. Try and use environmentally safe cleaning supplies.

Use washable plates, containers and utensils when at work. Get your own drink bottle and re-use!

Read, search and watch. Learn what you can about being more sustainable.

Share your ideas and experiences with co-workers, management or building managers. Help save the planet.