MECC working towards becoming a ClimateSmart leader

Over the past six months the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre (MECC) has been working hard to earnestly lower their emissions thanks to the ClimateSmart for Business Cluster program.

The ClimateSmart Business Cluster Program, an eight-month program, is about Queensland businesses working together to identify opportunities and increase knowledge on how to improve energy, water and waste efficiency.

Three key initiatives the MECC have investigated so far throughout their journey include the need to change all current light fittings to alternative low energy, long life bulbs and fittings, implementing recycling bin systems and increasing staff awareness and education towards sustainable practices.

Community Services and Facilities portfolio councillor Karen May said the MECC has been working really hard to make energy changes that residents can benefit from.

“An application has been made to Arts Queensland for a Regional Infrastructure Grant to replace all incandescent light fittings and bulbs in the entertainment centre foyer and auditorium with low voltage LED lights and fittings,” Cr May said.

“If the grant application is successful the centre will save thousands of dollars each year in electricity costs, reduce the centre’s carbon emissions and make the centre a showcase in sustainable energy fittings,” she said.

“Ultimately council wants to provide the community with a cost effective and quality venue and by introducing a couple of very simply, easy to achieve energy saving tips, we can encourage not only our staff but our patrons as well to ‘do the right thing’.”

Cluster Leader Jane Turner of Prose PR said we were thrilled to have the MECC join the ClimateSmart for Business Cluster Program.

“They had fantastic drive and enthusiasm for taking positive steps towards lowering their emission,” Ms Turner said.

The MECC is a high calibre venue which consists of many versatile spaces including a 1090 seat theatre, 100 seat studio space, two plenary halls which when fully extended seats 1800 people, two dedicated foyers, bars, an experimental theatre space, breakout rooms and extensive front-of-house and backstage facilities.

To find out how you or your business can participate in future ClimateSmart for Business Cluster Programs and help save the environment contact Prose PR on 4944 0688.

Contact: Melissa Dunn

Phone: 1300 MACKAY (1300 622 529)