Collect data and assess current environmental performance

Collect environmental data

As the measurement of environmental performance is an evolving process, it will be important for each entity to develop a methodology for data capture, analysis and results measurement. A documented methodology will help to ensure that data is consistently collected across sites, comparable over years, and that changes in the methodology can be accounted for in the data. While there is a strong emphasis on collecting quantitative data–the hard numbers–qualitative information is equally important because it can explain the reasons for trends, changes in performance and any data anomalies.

Environmental data or information may not be available for all sites or against all policy requirements. Identifying information gaps early and establishing mechanisms to gather the required baseline data are important first steps. Where data sets are absent or incomplete, collected data can be supplemented or extrapolated from audits or sample–based estimates. The methodology used to develop estimates on incomplete data must be recorded and retrievable for management purposes. It will also be important to keep up–to–date records of property and staff information, such as the number of staff, and the floor area. This information is used as normalising factors to determine consumption intensity. The environmental management requirements outlined in Table P1.2 provides a useful guide for developing a database of environmental information [7].

Assess environmental performance

Entity and site-level data can be used to assess how an entity is performing against whole-ofgovernment performance targets. Table P1.1 lists the current performance requirements under the environmental management framework and, where available, baseline data from public sector operations [8].

Note: All targets are per annum.

An assessment can be undertaken at the entity level and then considered on a site–by–site basis. This relatively quick assessment can provide an indication of an entity’s current performance. When considering baseline data and comparing performance against other public sector entities, it is important to remember that the outcomes will be affected by local conditions and business constraints. In particular, office–based water use and greenhouse gas emissions will vary between jurisdictions, reflecting different climatic conditions and the emissions intensity of energy sources.

---

Previous: Review existing operations and environmental impacts

Next: Prioritise, plan and commit to action