Policies & Plans
Over the coming months many new policies will be developed to address such issues as energy, water, waste and transport. However, many existing policies will also be adjusted to ensure sustainability is an integral component and therefore given due consideration. At the moment, procurement policies relating to Purchasing, Tendering, Travel and Entertainment are being amended to include considerations of sustainability.
The Sustainability Update Meeting, together with a number of workshops involving the Sustainability Working Group, will be used to gather information from staff and students regarding what is important to Macquarie with regard to sustainability. This information will provide the basis for Macquarie's Sustainability Policy.
Water
The Sustainability@MQ team, in conjunction with the Water Action Group, have developed a Water Policy which sets the targets for water efficiency at Macquarie University. A Water Action Plan has also been formulated to direct progress towards achieving water use reductions.
Footprint
GSE students are currently developing a model to measure the Footprint of the University. In line with objectives to report on progress and inform the community of Macquarie’s changes towards sustainability, a Footprint Action Plan has been developed to guide actions over the coming years.
Biodiversity
Macquarie University recognises the importance of maintaining and restoring its areas of natural vegetation. In order to optimize these areas, a Biodiversity Action Plan has been formulated to guide the direction of maintenance and restoration of natural vegetation.
E-Waste
In order to address the large amount of electrical waste currently being sent to land fill, the E-Waste Action Group, led by Josie Bowden, developed an E-Waste Policy and associated Procedures document. Disposal days have also been organized, the first of which was held Mar 27 2008. It is anticipated that four disposal days will be held throughout the duration of the year.
Human Resources
The HR Action Group is working towards embedding sustainability within the training and induction programs offered to current and future employees. Macquarie University is aiming to become an employer of choice because of its commitment to sustainability. A HR Action Plan has been developed to guide this journey.
Please contact us if you have any comments regarding MQ policies and plans.