Sustainability in Business

Worker on roof with solar panels

Sustainable Business Awards

Established as a platform for our business community, the Sustainable Business Awards are an opportunity for our business community to recognise and celebrate their achievements in a broad range of sustainability initiatives.

Find out more

Sustainability support for Kingston businesses

We work on a variety of programs and partnerships which help businesses to reduce costs, along with their impact on the environment. 

As part of our Climate and Ecological Emergency Response Plan, Kingston businesses have access to an energy advisor who can assist you with:

  • Energy assessments 
  • Access to energy upgrade funding
  • Advice on available government schemes

For more information, contact business@kingston.vic.gov.au, Zero Emissions Business Project Lead.

We have also developed a Sustainable Business Network, which provides a forum for businesses to explore sustainable initiatives and opportunities. To find out more, contact the Kingston Business team at business@kingston.vic.gov.au.

Victorian Energy Upgrade Program

What is it?

The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program helps businesses reduce their energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions by providing access to discounted energy-efficient products. Eligible products can include:

  • Hot water systems (electric and gas) 
  • Heating, cooling and lighting
  • Refrigerated display cabinets (RDCs) 
  • Fridges, freezers and refrigeration/ventilation fans
  • Pre-rinse spray valves (PRSV) 
  • Motors 
  • Glazing

Learn more about eligible products and the Victorian Energy Upgrade Program.

What are the benefits?

The Victorian Energy Upgrade Program can help you:

  • Save money on upgrade costs 
  • Reduce your energy bill 
  • Help the environment by reducing greenhouse gas emissions

Am I eligible?

All businesses can take part. However, you need to work with an accredited provider (a business approved to deliver upgrades under the program.) 

How do I access the program?

After reviewing the eligible products, contact an accredited provider for more information. 

ASPIRE Program (Advisory System for Process Innovation and Resource Exchange)

What is it?

ASPIRE is an online marketplace that allows businesses to trade their waste as a resource. Local businesses can upload their waste items and, with the click of a button, find another business wanting to exchange or purchase items that may have otherwise been sent to landfill.

Watch the ASPIRE video or visit ASPIRE for more information.

What are the benefits?

ASPIRE can help you:

  • Reduce waste costs
  • Reduce input resource costs
  • Divert waste to landfill
  • Access new business connections and collaboration opportunities
  • Access information that supports sustainable business operations

Am I eligible?

To be eligible, your business must be in Kingston (or a participating Council).

How do I access the program?

You can register for an ASPIRE account directly through ASPIRE.

Sustainable transport in business

There are several steps you can take to help reduce emissions from transport in your business.

  • Plan your journey to avoid peak hour traffic, and do a number of jobs in one trip
  • Service your vehicles regularly
  • Practise fuel efficient driving
  • Consider electric or sustainable vehicles when it’s time to change over
  • For onsite vehicles - review warehouse layouts to minimise travel and maintain vehicles regularly

You can get more information on these tips, and further information on future proofing your business transport solutions by emailing business@kingston.vic.gov.au

Business Renewables Buying Group

The Business Renewables Buying Group brings together like-minded businesses seeking to switch to 100% renewable electricity.

We’re joining forces with 30 councils across Victoria to assist businesses in purchasing renewable energy and cutting their emissions. With the support of Council and an external facilitator (Energy Market Specialist), a group of medium and large businesses will work collectively to maximise their energy-buying power.

What are the benefits?

In addition to reducing the time, complexity, and cost of going 100% renewable, the Business Renewables Buying Group:

  • Provides budget certainty with stable and long-term pricing - reducing exposure to energy market volatility.
  • Is a cost-effective way to reduce emissions and achieve your strategic goals.
  • Helps to avoid repeated internal procurement processes throughout the PPA contract.
  • Can provide reputation, branding and leadership benefits to your business.
  • Is an opportunity to support renewable energy and reduce your carbon footprint.

Am I eligible?

All Victorian businesses that qualify for the large electricity market (preferably with annual electricity consumption greater than 500 MWh) are eligible.

How do I access the program?

Contact our Zero Emissions Business Project Lead at info@kingston.vic.gov.au or complete the Business Renewables Buying Group Registration Form.