As of July 1, Australian businesses emitting large amounts of greenhouse gases will be required to monitor and measure the emissions ahead of reporting them to the government by October 2009, according to a report by the Environment New Service (ENS, www.ens-newswire.com).
The requirements are part of Australia’s new National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting System. Under the program, ENS reports companies that emit 125 kilotonnes or more of greenhouse gases each year, or produce or consume 500 terajoules or more of energy, will be required to collect data to meet annual reporting requirements.
In addition, corporations controlling facilities that emit more than 25 kilotonnes of greenhouse gases, or use or produce 100 terajoules or more of energy, will also need to collect data.
According to ENS’s report, while the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Act takes effect on July 1, corporations will have until August 31, 2009 to apply to register under the scheme, and until October 31, 2009 to submit their first annual greenhouse and energy report.
ENS reports that Australia’s Department of Climate Change (www.greenhouse.gov.au) has developed an online calculator to help businesses work out whether or not the system applies to them. The department will also continue to run information sessions and provide guidance on using its online reporting system, along with a reporting hotline.
For ENS’s full report on this story, click here.
