12 June 2010
Geoff Wilson
Director (Australia), World Green Infrastructure Network (WGIN)
President, Green Infrastructure Network Australia Inc.
Email: wilson.geoff@optusnet.com.au
Website: http://www.gina.org.au/
The Gold Coast was temporarily dubbed the ‘Green Coast’ recently when eco-conscious entrepreneur Bruce Mitchell showcased his world first Mitchell EcoEnterprise Park to a host of international delegates.
The carbon neutral industrial estate is located in Staplyton, in Gold Coast City Council’s Yatala Enterprise Area and its facilities and innovations were shown to representatives from the International Federation for Housing and Planning (IFHP) and the Eastern Organisation for Planning and Housing (EAROPH) last month.
In an Australian first, the Mitchell EcoEnterprise Park has also received a ‘six leaf’ certification from the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA), which requires satisfying all six EnviroDevelopment elements of ecosystems, waste, energy, materials, water and community.
Mr Mitchell said they were currently at full capacity with nine “green tenants” already located on the estate, which is not connected to Council mains or sewerage facilities.
“I am delighted to bring this concept to fruition and am appreciative of the Gold Coast City Council for their support in enabling our successful certification,” Mr Mitchell said. “Interest in the estate has been high, we’re already at full capacity with a waiting list of businesses wanting to relocate here. We have attracted businesses that share our passion and commitment to preserving and improving our current environment,” said Mr Mitchell.
One company to recently commit to the site is Hidro+, which has developed a patented technology for a new, renewable energy source. The company has zero-fuel, zero-emissions, has the smallest ecological footprint and the lowest cost of energy production.
“Hidro+ definitely fit the bill. It will be a great advantage to have them on site and we’re grateful to Council for facilitating this introduction,” Mr Mitchell said.
Divisional Councillor Donna Gates said the Gold Coast should be proud to host the first carbon neutral industrial estate in the world, which has had the full support of Council throughout its development over the past three years.
“In today’s environmentally conscious society, to have an industrial development achieve a carbon neutral status is a wonderful achievement and sets a terrific example for businesses aspiring to implement more sustainable practices,” Cr Gates said.
Cr Gates said the new estate, in conjunction with Council’s Investment Attraction Program, presented great opportunities for national or international businesses looking to relocate or expand to the Gold Coast.
“The Investment Attraction Program was endorsed by Council last year and provides assistance and financial incentives to eligible companies looking to expand or move to the city, which will also provide a vital boost to the city’s economic stability in the long term. The Yatala Enterprise Area has been identified as a key growth area for the Gold Coast,” said Cr Gates.
“It’s a great package for businesses looking at the area – the Mitchell EcoEnterprise Park provides an environmentally conscious solution, while Council can provide the support and assistance to facilitate it.”
Mr Mitchell said the new Mitchell EcoEnterprise Centre would provide visitors with three main functions – an environmental product and services information portal, a business events meeting space and an organic restaurant.
“The Mitchell EcoEnterprise Centre will open to the public very soon and is designed to promote sustainable development, environmental awareness, and climate change solutions for individuals and businesses,” Mr Mitchell said.
“The centre will provide visitors with a singular location in which they can personally experience and learn about the various environmentally sensitive products and services of which will be on display.”
Mr Mitchell said the Centre will be free for general visitors and is aimed at people who have a genuine interest in the environment, sustainable development, renewable energies, and environmentally sensitive products and services.
Recent Comments