EPA Partnerships Qld Rail
(l-r) Mr James Purtill, Ms Ruth Woods
and Mr Bob Scheuber sign the
Memorandum of Understanding.
Sustainable transport has taken on a new meaning, with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Queensland Rail (QR) signing two partnership agreements (Memorandums of Understanding) to form a Sustainability Alliance.
Environmental Protection Agency Director – General James Purtill said in a bid to develop a more sustainable rail transport system, the partnership will better manage the common interests of the EPA, QR and the Queensland Heritage Council (QHC).
"Our social and economic well – being is reliant on a clean, liveable and healthy environment that is rich in natural and cultural diversity," Mr Purtill said.
Mr Bob Scheuber, Chief Executive
Officer Queensland Rail, explains
the importance of developing a
sustainable transport system.
Queensland Rail CEO Bob Scheuber said as one of Australia's largest rail organisations, and an industry leader in sustainable business practices, he was keen to continue the organisation's progress by joining the EPA in the alliance.
"The Sustainability Alliance has developed key environmental strategies that encourage a progressive, sustainable rail transport sector which has benefit both the community and broader industry," Mr Scheuber said.
"QR already has a strong track record in our commitment to sustainable business practices and we are determined to continue our status as the leader in this vital area for Australia's rail industry."
"Last year QR was pleased to report that over six years we had abated over one million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions which equals nearly 200,000 fewer cars on the road. QR won the Greenhouse Challenge Plus Award last year and was ranked in the top 10 companies in Australia with respect to social performance.
Mr James Purtill discusses the
agreement with Mr Peter Hutchison,
Director of Cultural Heritage,
Environmental Protection Agency.
Mr Purtill says the agreement stresses the need for flexibility, which has enabled QR to adjust to any further changes to transport priorities.
"The Sustainability Alliance also endeavours to educate customers to ensure their greater understanding and appreciation of the environment and sustainability," he said.
In signing the partnership, Queensland Heritage Council CEO David Eades said he recognised QR's achievements to manage its cultural heritage and supported the delegation of further responsibility to the rail company.
"We're keen to develop joint cultural heritage management strategies with other government agencies with similar heritage portfolios such as Education and Health and the Brisbane and Ipswich City Councils," Mr Eades said.
Last updated: 24 May 2006
