The ecoBiz program FAQs
I’m interested in the program. What happens next?
Fill out the registration form on our contact page, and we'll be in touch shortly. Meanwhile, check out our free webinars and other resources here to see how ecoBiz offers practical ways for you to improve your business.
How much does it cost to join the program?
The ecoBiz program is completely free. Any ecoBiz recommendations you put into action within your workplace may cost you money – but how much it costs and when you decide to spend that money is entirely up to you.
How long does ecoBiz take?
We estimate around 15 hours for one-star participation; 20 hours for two-star participation; and about 25 hours for three-star or champion participation.
All up, the ecoBiz program is designed to be finished within 12 months – but how much you participate and when are entirely your choice. Because we understand business, we've designed ecoBiz to meet your needs and the time you have.
Do I need to be a Business Chamber Queensland member to participate?
No – the program is open to all Queensland businesses.
I am a small business. Will I really save money?
All businesses, big and small, that participate in ecoBiz walk away with solid strategies to reduce costs. How much you save is up to you and the action plan you implement.
On average, businesses that participate in the ecoBiz program reduce:
- energy consumption by one-fifth
- water use by one-third
- waste by almost one-half.
Businesses must have 5 employees or more to be eligible for a coaching session, however all businesses can access our other resources.
Who can join ecoBiz?
The ecoBiz program has been running in Queensland for more than a decade. Right now, around 500 businesses are participating, from small cafes and offices through to large manufacturing and processing facilities.
Do I need to monitor all three: Energy, water and waste?
No. You can choose to just monitor the resources you’re concerned about in your business. However, we've discovered from our work with thousands of Queensland businesses that the best savings – including better business-wide efficiency – come from addressing power, water and waste costs at the same time.
Is there any assistance available to help me through ecoBiz?
The ecoBiz tools are simple to use, and the program is easy to finish. A free site visit and coaching session with an expert ecoBiz consultant will help you identify areas you can improve around your business.
Our ecoBiz team members are available by phone or email if you have any queries. Phone 1300 731 988 or email [email protected]
I have had environmental compliance issues. Can I still join?
Yes, provided your business is currently complying with environmental legislation.
We've already reduced our water and electricity as much as we can. So how can ecoBiz help us?
By recording the reductions, you may qualify for automatic recognition as an ecoBiz Star Partner. Then, by participating in the ecoBiz program you can identify other opportunities to reduce your resource use or waste.
How will my business be promoted once I've completed the program?
Once you’ve achieved at least a 10% reduction in energy water and/or waste:
- your business can use the ecoBiz Star Partner logo in promotional materials and tenders
- you may be eligible to develop a case study detailing the eco-efficiency initiatives your business has implemented
- you'll be promoted on the ecoBiz website, and your successes promoted across ecoBiz social media channels
- you'll receive recognition at our Leaders Forums.
I completed the old ecoBiz program run by the Queensland government. What happens to my accreditation?
Your accreditation remains, as long as you continue to submit your data for reassessment.