Case study: DOC Westland sustainability
DOC ranger inspecting structures on
Black Thunder, the 'Caught being
Sustainable' bike
West Coasters come with a reputation of going about things slightly differently from the rest of the country, and their response to winning a DOC 'Caught Being Sustainable 2008' award proves this.
'Caught Being Sustainable' Awards recognise the sustainable efforts and achievements of DOC staff across the country. South Westland efforts with webcam use in recruitment interviews saved travel and accommodation costs of more than $1000 and 1.1 tonnes in CO2 emissions.
Staff spent their $2500 prize on a bike and books for the local library. The staff bike is intended to replace personal or DOC vehicles on short journeys into or around town to the shops, other offices, the dentist, home for lunch etc. The 18 books on sustainability have been presented to Westland Library to benefit the entire Westland community, from Kumara down to Haast.