Caring for our environment
Caring for our environment
We’re continuing to look at ways to become a greener organisation by reducing our environmental footprint and helping our customers and staff to do the same.
The St.George Group Environmental Policy outlines and guides our approach to responsible environmental management.
Right now we’re developing an Environmental Management System that will help us manage our environmental footprint and we’ve introduced some practical changes, such as improving recycling in the workplace and offering a range of environmentally friendly office products.
Other workplace initiatives include:
- Developing savings action plans for water and energy – part of an initiative by the Department of Energy, Utilities and Sustainability (DEUS)
- Introducing behavioural and building services changes to reduce the volume of water used
- Implementing local management initiatives to ensure energy savings benefits are considered in every business case decision
- Participation in Cards 4 Planet Ark and Cartridges 4 Planet Ark recycling programs
- Shredding bins used nationally to recycle our office paper
- Sourcing our paper from sustainable managed forests
- Collecting safety data on the amount of chemicals and solvents used in the workplace and sourcing alternate, safer products
Helping the environment starts at home
To help staff do their bit for the environment, we offer them interest free loans to purchase rainwater tanks, energy and water efficient appliances and solar hot water systems for their homes. We also provide paid volunteer leave to assist environmental, community or charitable projects.
Proud supporter of Earth Hour
In February 2008, BankSA signed-up for Earth Hour - an initiative of WWF-Australia and Fairfax Media, which calls on individuals and businesses to turn off their lights for one hour annually across the globe. The primary aim of the campaign is not just to promote awareness of climate change and inspire people to take a stand; it is about finding simple solutions to incorporate into everyday life and practices.
