E&T&C Certification Launched at CASANZ International Clean Air and Environment Conference in Hobart
Hobart, Tasmania – The 27th CASANZ International Clean Air and Environment Conference, held alongside the 10th Odours and Air Emissions Conference, recently concluded in Hobart, marking a significant gathering for professionals in air quality and odour management. Organised by the Clean Air Society of Australia and New Zealand (CASANZ) in collaboration with the International Water Association (IWA), the event featured over 110 presentations that showcased the latest advancements in the field.
Among the key highlights was the presentation of the E&T&C Certification, introduced by Carlos Díaz. This innovative certification aims to establish a comprehensive framework to enhance citizen engagement, improve transparency, and expand communication channels in cases of recurring odour impacts on neighbouring communities.
During this presentation, Carlos emphasised the crucial role that Engagement, Transparency, and Communication (E&T&C) play in maintaining or restoring trust among affected communities. Drawing parallels with other cases that happened in te past, Carlos underscored the consequences of lacking a well-defined policy for engaging with the public.
The E&T&C Certification represents a pioneering approach to evaluating the performance of industrial facilities in their interactions with nearby communities. The certification process involves independent third-party audits, ensuring that evaluations are impartial and thorough. By quantifying how well a facility upholds the principles of engagement, transparency, and communication, this certification offers a much-needed tool for industries to build trust and accountability.
"In an era where citizens are increasingly aware of their rights and environmental impacts, it is essential for industrial plants to demonstrate their commitment to good practices," stated Carlos Díaz. "The E&T&C Certification is designed to show that a facility is taking proactive steps to address community concerns and foster a positive relationship."
The CASANZ conference, which spanned several days, included a range of workshops and keynote sessions that provided valuable insights into odour management and air quality regulation. This collaborative environment allowed professionals to share best practices and explore innovative solutions to pressing environmental challenges.
During this event, Carlos was awarded bith the Clean Air Champion Award 2024. According to the organizers "Carlos's passion and proactive promotion of odour management have made a significant impact on the field, making him the recipient of the Air Quality Champion award."
As the discussions concluded, the introduction of the E&T&C Certification signified a significant advancement in the way industrial facilities approach community engagement, paving the way for a more transparent and responsible industry. This initiative not only aims to improve public relations but also to create a sustainable future for both communities and industries.
