Pedagogy & Methodology

The Business Streams Approach achieved remarkable success in 2004.

“Business Streams highlights best practice examples of waste management and has assisted in raising community awareness of stormwater pollution issues”
~ Cr Clare O’Neil, Mayor, City of Greater Dandenong

“The Business Streams Approach has been the most effective way of reaching local small businesses and educating about stormwater pollution. Council is extremely excited about the momentum and enthusiasm that is growing in that business precinct. They have become a cheer-squad for the Diamond Creek!”
~ Donna Stoddart, Environment Coordinator, Nillumbik Shire Council

Business Streams is an innovative capacity building approach to Stormwater Pollution Prevention for small business operators and their staff. The Business Streams Approach works also to create and strengthen partnerships between local industry and the EPA, Water Authorities, Councils, Waterwatch, etc.

The Business Streams program features a number of key elements:

• Pounding the beat – a process which takes time to talk and create relationships with local business people.
• The “Splash Course” – basic training in stormwater pollution issues including a simple, action based education and audit kit with local relevance. Council, EPA, Waterwatch, etc, are invited as guest presenters.
• Businesses commit to at least three stormwater pollution prevention measures to receive the TU Platypus Award at a creek walk celebration or during a theatrical public presentation on the street in front of their premises. The Award can be displayed to communicate their local environmental responsibility to their customers.

The Shire of Nillumbik has been so impressed with the level of engagement and environmental outcomes attributed to the Business Streams Approach, continued support of the program is planned for 2005.

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