Workshop adds fuel to fire up regions sustainable tourism efforts
Tuesday 6 October 2009, 12:51PM
By Queenstown Sustainable Business Programme
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High volume fuel users in the Southern tourism industry are invited to attend a free workshop in Queenstown to find out more about the environmental and economic benefits of using biodiesel in their fleets.
The workshop will explain how the use of biodiesel blends can reduce the region’s carbon footprint and boost Queenstown’s reputation as a destination that is serious about sustainable practice, according to Steve Henry, manager of the Centre for Sustainable Practice, which is organising the workshop.
It will also include a presentation from independent expert Andrew Campbell of Fuel Technology Ltd. Andrew has consulted on fuel options with government and private organizations including the World Bank and United Nations.
“We want to share information, upskill commercial operators and galvanise enough demand to make securing a supply of biodiesel a viable proposition for the region,” said Mr Henry.
“The aim is to build on the positive interest already out there and form a consortium of local businesses committed to using biodiesel. We’ll also be explaining how government is helping the biodiesel industry get off the ground.”
Queenstown Mayor Clive Geddes has given his support to the workshop as a way of reinforcing the town’s sustainability message, as has Energy and Resources Minister Gerry Brownlee.
“I welcome Queenstown’s interest in the potential biodiesel has for the tourism market,” Mr Brownlee said.
“This is an excellent idea which could develop into a significant regional initiative.
I hope to see some real progress coming out of this workshop.”
Steve Henry said the workshop was particularly relevant to high volume fuel users in the region, especially those operators taking visitors into some of our most unspoilt areas.
“It would be great for Queenstown to be able to say in a few months time that all tour buses heading into Milford Sound are using biodiesel blends!”
The workshop is supported by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority, which administers the new Biodiesel Grants Scheme. EECA’s chief executive Mike Underhill said: “Queenstown is New Zealand’s iconic tourism destination, and now it can lead the way in its use of sustainable transport fuel.”
There are six biodiesel production companies around New Zealand enrolled with the Biodiesel Grants Scheme, one or more of which could potentially supply biodiesel to the region, Mr Underhill said.
At present, the specification of ordinary diesel in New Zealand allows up to 5% biodiesel. Higher blend ratios can be used but this requires consideration of the compatibility of the engine, warranties that may exist, and other factors.
The workshop takes place in Queenstown on Thursday 15th October at the Copthorne Hotel from 9am to 1pm and includes lunch.
To reserve a space interested parties should contact Sharon Schindler, Sustainable Tourism Adviser, on sschindler@tekotago.ac.nz by 13th October.
About the Centre for Sustainable Practice
The Centre for Sustainable Practice was established in 2007 to lead the development of sustainable practice in the Otago region. It operates as a business unit of Otago Polytechnic and is based at the Central Otago campus in Cromwell.
The Centre’s core activities are education, consultancy and research. The education arm develops multidisciplinary courses, events, best practice visits and conferences, and access to sustainable products and services. The consultancy arm provides access to expertise and related services such as evaluating and recommending improvements to sustainability of business practices. The research arm undertakes research into issues related to sustainability, such as rating the sustainability of products and services.
Although the Centre is separate from the Otago Polytechnic curriculum or operations, sustainable practice has been integrated into all Polytech courses and procedures and is key to the Polytech’s day to day operations.
The Centre is run by Steve Henry who is responsible for programme development. He is supported by Ella Lawton, Sharon Schindler and a range of partners, who support specific projects. The Centre for Sustainable Practice is overseen by Jean Tilleyshort, Group Manager – Regions for Otago Polytechnic and has governance from an advisory group consisting of representatives from the Otago region, local government, a range of industry areas, and the Chief Executive of Otago Polytechnic Phil Ker.