The announcement of the Federal Government's Carbon tax led to an immediate surge of interest in how to reduce carbon emissions, according to business sustainability analyst Kristine Dewar.
A graduate of The University of Queensland and employee of Carbon House, Ms Dewar said the introduction of a carbon-pricing mechanism had sparked Australian businesses to think about ways to improve business sustainability and reduce their carbon tax liability.
“I have already provided policy advice to one of my clients, and it’s likely that an increasing number of businesses will seek advice and analysis about the impacts of this policy development,” she said.
The 2010 Environmental Management (sustainable development) graduate will return to the University this Friday to receive her UQ University Medal at a graduation ceremony being held at the St Lucia campus.
In her job at Carbon House, Ms Dewar designs and delivers innovative carbon management and sustainability services across a range of areas.
She helps businesses achieve profitable green solutions by tailoring sustainability and carbon management projects to suit their individual needs.
“Currently, I’m managing National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (NGER) and Smart Energy Savings Program reporting and compliance for our clients,” Ms Dewar said.
“This also involves undertaking eco-efficiency audits and leading the development of the second iteration of DERM’s Business Sustainability Roadmap and factsheet series,” she said.
Ms Dewar graduated with first class honours and credits her UQ degree with preparing her for ‘green’ business.
“The opportunity to complete an industrial placement and honours research in my final year was a valuable experience, which gave me the focus needed to pursue a career in business sustainability,” she said.
Ms Dewar has held positions in both private and not-for-profit organisations in a range of industries including insurance, retail, mining, and natural resource management, and has also been involved in academic research.
Since 2007, she has volunteered for Landcare Queensland – starting as a Project Officer while studying at UQ and then becoming a board member early this year.
“As a board member, I get to be involved strategic decisions about how the organisation supports and resources the volunteer Landcare network in Queensland,” she said.
Media: Kate Swanson (Marketing and Communications – Geography, Planning and Environmental Management; 07 3346 7406 or k.swanson@uq.edu.au) or Caroline Bird (UQ Communications; 07 3365 1931 or c.bird1@uq.edu.au).
