Sustainability

Functions at Melbourne is committed to environmental sustainability and have implemented a number of environmental friendly programs and initiatives.

 

Consumables

• We use non-disposable cutlery, cups, plates and platters and when required disposable product is 100% recyclable or biodegradable.

• We purchase serviettes made from recycled materials.

• We avoid individually or over-packaged products.

• When packaging cannot be avoided, we ensure it is recyclable.

• We offer filtered water coolers and recyclable cups over bottled water.

 

Menus

• We develop our menus around locally grown and seasonally available produce to reduce food miles and transport emmissions.

• We offer vegetarian and organic menus and promote the use of unprocessed ingredients.

• We reduce food waste by serving appropriate portion sizes and determining accurate catering numbers. Surplus food is donated to local charities instead of going to landfill.

 

Recycling

• Organic and Non-organics kitchen waste separation is to be implemented in 2011.

• We partner with VISY to recycle our paper and cardboard. VISY bins are provided throughout our business. Our on-site waste management facility also compresses and bundles bulk cardboard.

• Co-mingle Glass, Plastic and Can bins are used throughout our venues.

• Our used kitchen cooking oil is reclaimed, refined and recycled

• Printer Toners: Toners are recycled responsibly through Fuji Xerox/IT Services.

 

Coffee

• We serve:

- OrganicoPrima Certified Organic, Fairtrade and Rainforrest Alliance coffee and;

- Tea Tonic Australian grown, hand picked organic tea sections.

 

Lighting

• All tungsten globes have been replaced with energy efficient light fixtures.

• Our computerised building management system allows optimal scheduling of heating and cooling for only those hours needed.

 

Office Equipment

• All our copiers and printers produce double-sided printing to save on paper.

• All paper purchased for copiers is 100% recycled.

• Stickers are placed on electrical switches such as lighting and computers to remind staff to turn off when not in use.

• Electrical equipment such as heating/cooling systems, fans, lights etc are switched off overnight.

• All staff computer monitors revert to sleep mode after 5 minutes of inactivity to save energy.

 

Education

• We actively promote our sustainable best practices and encourage our staff, suppliers and customers alike to assist us in our sustainability endeavors wherever possible.

• We engage senior students from varying faculties through practicums, assessment activities and other volunteer programs to further foster sustainability in the University curriculum.

• We educate our staff and student workforce in sustainability best practices ensuring they take these principles with them into life after University.

 

Purchasing

• We make purchasing decisions based on the sustainability credentials of our suppliers and involve them in our sustainability initiatives.