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Key Elements 1. Action driven … the Business Streams Approach is fundamentally based on participants committing to hands on, effective and site specific stormwater pollution prevention action. 2. Style and focus - the less that’s written – the more that’s read … The Business Streams educational support material offers a non-complex explanation of the surface-drain-waterway connections with an emphasis on pictures and engaging art. Understanding and behaviour are targeted through a focus on the “low hanging fruit (LHF) ”. The LHF are the easy wins or the common sense things which people can readily do in their businesses to prevent pollution. It is motivating for people get sense that it’s “doable” without having to read a huge tome. On the other hand however, detailed, technical, legal and regulatory information is available via the excellent City of Kingston stormwater manual that is available at www.voxbandicoot.com.au/businessstreams/infosheets.htm as an adjunct to the Business Streams Program. 3. Peer to peer … The Program builds a “local business pollution prevention team” who collaborate on actions and projects and, most importantly, reach out to others in their business precinct. The power of receiving “the message from a “known and trusted other “ is well appreciated. 4. Interaction, participation and reward … the kit includes a “workplace self-audit”, in which participants are asked to “have a look around their shop” to plug the “stormwater” leaks. This will then become the stuff of their three commitments, entitling them to receive the “TU Platypus Award” which they display to send a message to their customers about caring for the environment. 5. Enviro•Links … Every business precinct drains into a local waterway. The Business Streams Program builds strongly around the creek as a beacon, mascot or specific purpose. Local traders are introduced to the life that lives in the local stream. This connection with nature assists in making it real. It also enables developing a motivating and inspiring “strap line” or “slogan” truly relevant to the participating businesses. 6. Regulations and technical information … While the education kit focus is on the everyday achievable, low hanging fruit, participants have web access to comprehensive stormwater technical detail which serves state regulations and includes important specifications in reference to hazardous materials storage, bunding, emergency procedures etc. 7. A Pat On The Back Feels Good … by recognising and celebrating the action and contribution of participants as the program unfolds ensures that we sustain the gain! Celebrating achievement of program participants (before, during and after) is extremely important and has huge paybacks in terms of lasting culture change. Acknowledgement of the proactive businesses and their achievement via media articles, advertisements, websites, signage, etc rewards and embeds positive behaviour change. More importantly, the promotion and celebration of participating businesses has the de facto effect of educating and recruiting other local businesses not previously involved. |
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