Annual Report 2016-17

Judicial Commission of NSW – Annual Report 2016–17 82 We have achieved a 41.5% reduction in energy use over 5 years. We are committed to reducing our carbon footprint and being part of the NSW Government’s plan to be carbon neutral by 2020. Our environmental sustainability report is available on our intranet site. Figure 20 graphically shows that since the last financial year, we have achieved a 38.1% reduction in our energy consumption (last year: 3% reduction). In line with the NSW Government’s Waste Reduction and Purchasing Policy (WRAPP), we focused on reducing waste and increasing the purchase of recycled paper and office consumables. This year we recycled 1.045 tonnes of waste paper (last year 1.1 tonnes) and bought 402 reams of 100% recycled paper (last year: 434). Other sustainability measures included: • reducing waste generation by recycling all paper, cardboard, toner cartridges and computer equipment • providing information about environmental matters as a standing item at staff meetings • reducing the impact of carbon emissions by offsetting carbon when purchasing air tickets for domestic and international travel • reducing the impact of carbon emissions by preferring carbon neutral conference venues • using power-saving computers and screens • minimising energy consumption after hours • using 100% recycled paper with double-sided printing • using online research platforms • using online payment of accounts received and rendered • publishing internal policies on our intranet • providing seminar and conference papers electronically. Sustainability Figure 20. 5-year trend in energy use Gigajoules 463 278 475 472 2012–13 2013–14 2014–15 2015–16 2016–17 449 Relocation to new premises The relocation to new premises was a major focus and challenge during the 2016–17 year. After 29 years at 301 George Street, above Wynyard Station, new premises were sourced and fitted out. A tight timeframe emerged as the departure date was brought forward and was non-negotiable. 301 George Street was to be demolished as part of a $1 billion redevelopment of the Wynyard precinct. The Commission engaged and worked closely with a firm of specialist architects and project managers to realise our vision for a contemporary office space. The entire staff of the Commission mobilised to help. Visits to the new premises were conducted and staff were given a chance to voice opinions about their new office space. This was also an opportunity to provide staff with new, adjustable desks, ergonomic chairs, much more light and the latest in technology with each staff member gaining 2 computer screens. Space was also at a premium but consultation with staff initiated an extensive clear-out of outdated documents, technologies and books. Staff focused on lessening the clutter that had accumulated over many years in the one office. Formal training sessions were provided on work health and safety in relation to packing, unpacking and lifting weights. Our IT department worked long hours and over several weekends to make the transition to the new premises seamless. The audio and visual system for the conference space offered some challenges but all steps were taken to ensure that the fit out budget was not exceeded. Staff now enjoy a modern, efficient work space and the Commission has received a number of compliments about the conference space from visiting delegations and judicial officers attending our seminars. Case study Our new premises, 60 Carrington Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000, has a current Building Energy Efficiency Certificate with a 4 Star Nabers Energy Rating. The certificate is issued under the Building Energy Efficiency Disclosure Act 2010 (Cth). This Act encourages energy efficiency in a disclosure affected building. The building features an efficient commercial lighting control system and new energy efficient lighting. Staff and visitors appreciate the contemporary clean lines of our reception area in our new premises at 60 Carrington Street, Sydney.