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In the area of energy use, we have been looking at implementation of a national energy management program and eco-workplace scheme to reduce energy usage by ACT government agencies. In the area of urban and transport planning, there have been new energy efficiency requirements for new buildings put in place. They are to become effective, I think, on 1 July this year, or at some date in the very near future. There are also things such as the “3 for Free” scheme for people travelling on public roads and getting access to special parking spaces. In 1984, the first State of the Environment Report was produced by the Commissioner for the Environment. He was requested to focus in that document particularly on greenhouse gases and greenhouse issues. In light of the recommendations he made in that report, on the need for more quantitative information about this, the Department of Urban Services has started work on the preparation of an ACT greenhouse gas inventory for the years 1988, 1990, 1992 and 1994. This information will provide baseline data against which progress can be measured.

I can also advise members that, during this coming financial year, work will begin on revising that greenhouse strategy which is already out in the public domain, to include actions which readily quantify reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. This is a project which will take a number of forms over a period of time. In a sense, the ACT does not contribute as much to the greenhouse effect as other places in Australia do. By the same token, therefore, we have a great opportunity to reduce our own contribution and set an example and a lead for other places in Australia.

MS HORODNY: I have a supplementary question, Mr Speaker. Does the Government's corporatisation strategy reflect its greenhouse strategy?

MR HUMPHRIES: Mr Speaker, I can say that there is no question that moves to corporatise such things as ACTEW in any way compromise our commitment towards the environment and the things that have to be done in that respect. I want to emphasise again what we said the other day in the debate about this matter. Merely because an organisation is being given a corporate form does not mean that the organisation then ceases to have any social responsibility or to be answerable to government. If government or the Assembly itself imposes certain corporate responsibilities on bodies such as a corporatised ACTEW, then that body must fulfil those requirements. I look forward to being able to help define the sorts of environmental obligations that we will put against such bodies as a corporatised ACTEW - and, indeed, others such as ACTION - to make sure that, in the corporate sector of this community, they are setting an example for good environmental citizenship.

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