Environmental Office Plan
Qualmark’s Commitment to Environmental Responsibility
Environmental Office Plan
Introduction and background
Qualmark has recognised a need to formalise its environmental responsibilities by having a plan that aims to:
- Document Qualmark’s commitment to environmental responsibility;
- Record Qualmark’s environmentally-focused activities and initiatives;
- Identify areas where improvements can be made; and
- Set some targets for improvements.
Qualmark’s commitment to being environmentally responsible
As a promoter of ‘responsible tourism’, which includes environmental sustainability, Qualmark recognises that as a consumer of resources it also needs to ensure it is acting responsibly in its business practices.
Qualmark views environmental practices as part of being a responsible business, particularly as it operates within an industry being increasingly called upon to improve its performance in this area. Qualmark’s work in this area also reflects New Zealand’s positioning in its major international visitor markets, based on the 100% Pure New Zealand brand.
Examining Qualmark’s practices that have some form of environmental impact was the first step. Qualmark has identified the following areas of review:
- Water
- Waste
- Energy
- Conservation
- Community
- Responsible purchasing
- Staff engagement and training
These areas are consistent with the Responsible Tourism Operations criteria items recently developed and extended for Qualmark licence holders. Qualmark has recorded initiatives under these topic areas, in its Environmental Office Plan. This forms Qualmark’s environmental plan. For more information, please contact us at enquiries@qualmark.co.nz