Introduction
The continued success of the Operation Flinders Foundation depends on the development of the people involved in the program, and on minimising the impact of its business activities on the natural environment. The Foundation acknowledges that its presence in the natural environment has the potential to cause ecological damage. Moreover, it recognises that there are limits to the capacity of the environment to absorb continued use of an area.
It is therefore an important part of the program management process to assess key environmental effects and develop practical safeguards to protect the environment. The Foundation philosophy also extends beyond minimal impact strategies by fostering an organisational culture that delivers activities aimed at encouraging staff and young people to experience natural areas with enhanced environmental and cultural awareness.
The Operation Flinders Foundation is committed to the following key environmental protection policy principles:
Organisational Policy
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· A policy statement of commitment to the development and implementation of environmental protection procedures and practice
Organisational Sustainability
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· Ethical organisational policies and practice
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· Business management including operations, marketing and customer satisfaction
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· A focus on the natural environment work-place and its conservation including education of staff, customers and local communities
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· Working with local communities and developing cultural respect and sensitivity
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Planning and Implementation
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· Identification of the environmental impact of activities
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· Tracking regulatory requirements
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· Establishing a business plan that includes a focus on the reduction of impact and compliance with regulations
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· Identifying set responsibilities for and the training needs of staff
Evaluation and Continuous Improvement
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· Evaluating established policies and procedures to identify and correct environmental protection deficiencies
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· Reviewing policies, procedures and activities to maintain an improved environment protection performance process.
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References:
The accredited Australian EcoCertification Program (Ecotourism Australia, 2003).
ISO 14001.
Outdoor Recreation Industry Training Packages: (SROODROO2A/01; SROODROO2A/O6; SROOPSOO1B/01 AND SROOPSOO1B/02.)
A. Mathieson
Board Memeber
