Definition of a ‘Carbon Footprint’ from the World Resources Institute:

“A Carbon Footprint is a measure of the impact human activities have on the environment in terms of the amount of green house gases produced, measured in units of carbon dioxide.”

At the Daintree Discovery Centre we are concerned about the environmental, social and economic values of the land and the local community in which we live and work. We are committed to fostering environmental enlightenment, interpretation and the conservation of the unique bio-diversity of the Daintree Rainforest. Central to our environmental policy is a commitment to reduce and neutralize the impact of carbon emissions.

Download Our Carbon Offset Policy Document »

Carbon Footprint Audit Process

An external audit of the Daintree Discovery Centre’s carbon footprint was conducted by an independent consultant, Kim Forde. This audit will be reviewed regularly to ensure accuracy and credibility, and will be used to establish the number of trees that need to be planted to achieve carbon neutrality.

As part of the audit process Kim reviewed DDC’s energy consumption; diesel, gas and battery storage. She calculated the petrol used by staff driving to and from work, as well as a percentage of fuel used by commercial vehicles delivering goods and services to DDC; the milkman, trades people, suppliers etc.

In addition to energy consumption Kim also audited DDC’s waste management practices; packaging, food disposal, recycling program, water/waste disposal and factored all of that into our carbon footprint as well.

Methodology

Those aspects of the business that were reviewed as part of the audit process included:

• Business systems that focus on eco-efficiency, embracing the ‘reduce, re-use and recycle’ concept.
• Environmental policies and practices
• Environmental awareness
• Purchasing and acquisition policies
• Staff training and development
• Staff uniforms
• Waste generation
• Waste management including disposal
• Site operations
• Records management
• Evidence of ‘ongoing improvement’ processes

• Site verification of:
• Lighting and associated energy efficiency practices
• Buildings - design, layout, materials use, fitness for purpose
• Heating, cooling, ventilation and air-conditioning
• Office equipment
• Energy supply and use
• Transport
• Communication - internal and external

Kim Forde B Ed, B App Sc
The Missing Link - Resource Coordinators Pty Ltd