The Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP) has launched a free, online training tool to help businesses across England and Wales improve resource management, saving up to £1,000 per employee.
The new training tool, ‘On Course for Zero Waste’, comprises four, free foundation training modules, four advanced and in-depth practitioner modules, templates,; case studies, and other support material to give companies ‘the skills and tools they need to improve the financial and environmental performance of their organisation’.
Users will also have the chance to enhance their CVs with Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and course certificates, accredited by the Chartered Institution of Wastes Management (CIWM).
It is hoped the tool will enable businesses to:
- understand and measure how much waste they produce;
- identify how waste costs are affecting profits;
- identify ways to reduce waste and save money;
- bring about change; and
- benefit from ‘improved skills and expertise’.
Originally developed by consultancy firm AEA for Zero Waste Scotland, the tool was first launched in Scotland in October 2011 but has now been extended to English and Welsh businesses.
Following feedback from users in Scotland, content from both the foundation and practitioner level modules is now being redeveloped into shorter modules and extended to include energy and water efficiency. The new modules - entitled Green Champion Training - are due to be launched during the summer.
The tool can be found on WRAP’s new online advice centre, the Business Resource Efficiency Hub, which was developed to help small-and-medium sized enterprises prevent waste and save money. The hub provides a range of other tools such as checklists to develop a waste prevention plan, a step-by-step advice service and a telephone helpline.
UK could save £23 billion through improved resource efficiency
Speaking of the hub, Carl Nichols, Head of Business and Markets at WRAP said: “Our comprehensive range of tools and advice can help companies in England grab a slice of the £23 billionof total savings available if UK businesses improve resource efficiency, while also helping to create and protect jobs.
“Businesses can also find a one-stop shop for best practice guides covering a variety of subjects, from introductory information on resource efficiency, through to water efficiency, advice for managers and how to secure support from colleagues. Companies can also generate their own tailored guide to resource efficiency in a few minutes by using our e-publication tool.
“Whether companies need help on where to begin their resource efficiency journey, or more advanced guidance, the tools and guides have been grouped to cater for their knowledge of the topic”, he added.
Find out more about ‘On Course for Zero Waste’, or WRAP’s Business Resource Efficiency Hub.
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