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Training saves the environment and cuts costs

After working on the Mount Lofty Ranges Catchment Program where he developed environmental training programs for Council workers, consultant Tim Marshall, in conjunction with the South Australian Local Government Training Authority, has developed similar courses for other Councils.

Course developers believe it is important that plant operators, construction workers and gardeners have access to information that can reduce adverse environmental impacts from Council works. Tim Marshall points out, in practice, Council workers often have a close relationship with their local environment and a great deal of knowledge and expertise to bring to the issue.

Through training to reduce soil erosion, protect water quality and preserve native vegetation, Councils save the environment and costs arising from needing to compensate for damage, undertake repairs and rehabilitation schemes.

The courses do not attempt to preach or lecture to participants but instead seek to develop practical ideas about how Council workers can avoid contributing to environmental problems.

Workers are encouraged to recognise the value of what they do, to walk a site before commencing work, to identify potential problems and discuss these with environmental staff and supervisors and finally to stay within the construction zone.

"When encouraged to develop alternative strategies workers are very creative," Tim Marshall said. "Practical examples are used to bring home the message that savings are to be made by getting it right the first time."

Tim Marshall said that the initial success at Mount Lofty, which has been praised for the major role it has played in the management of natural resources, has inspired many other Councils to undertake the training programs.

For further information contact Tim Marshall, telephone (08) 8287 4702.

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