The Australian Government's Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS) will introduce a carbon price which will impact on Queensland's small-to-medium businesses in a variety of ways. The CPRS is due to commence on the 1 July 2011.

Businesses can prepare for the introduction of the CPRS by adopting a number of relatively simple measures to limit their carbon exposure, contribute to the response to climate change and generate ongoing savings.

Becoming 'lean and green' will be the best way for businesses to thrive in Australia's new carbon-constrained economy. That is why the Queensland Government is introducing a new ClimateSmart Business Service to provide Queensland businesses with the assistance they need.

The Queensland Government will develop the ClimateSmart Business Service in partnership with industry bodies, businesses and key small-to-medium business sectors across Queensland over the coming months.  The service will commence on 1 July 2010.

The ClimateSmart Business Service will:

• Provide tailored information and advice on what the CPRS means for your business, both in terms of energy use and potential impacts along your supply chain.
• Help you to develop a plan to manage your carbon exposure by identifying opportunities to lower your energy use and waste, as well as provide you with some tools to get you started.
• Provide links into other government and industry programs that can continue to help your company become more 'lean and green'.

The Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation will lead the development of the ClimateSmart Business Service, in conjunction with the Department of Environment and Resource Management.

For more information

Small-to-medium businesses and others interested in the ClimateSmart Business Service may register their interest by completing the online interest registration form.