The theme of the conference is "Transitioning industry to a low carbon economy" and will offer workshops, presentations and panel discussions on a range of resource efficient and cleaner production (RECP) methodologies. Companies will receive information on better use of energy, water, materials and waste, as well as legislation and policy that may affect their operations.
The NCPC-SA is a national programme, funded by the dti and hosted at the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), that exists to support industrial companies to reduce their environmental impact through the use of RECP. The biennial conference is offered as one of these support mechanisms, which is why there is no cost for attendance.
Julie Wells, marketing and communications manager of the NCPC-SA, explains that the conference is an opportunity to expose companies to government policy and support programmes, new research and methodologies, the successes and lessons of other companies, and the opportunities for skills development in the green economy. Both days will include a non-commercial exhibition, allowing delegates to interact with government and industry programmes that may be of assistance.
The conference programme is structured to allow delegates to move between themed tracks, and will address a broad range of relevant topics.
Thursday, 14 September, will look at the areas needed to create resilient companies and sectors. The day one programme will present practical solutions for any company wishing to transition to a cleaner, more sustainable and environmentally conscious organisation. Topics will include energy efficiency, water efficiency, industrial symbiosis, waste management, green productivity, localisation and clean technology. A session on the tools and programmes of the NCPC-SA will provide companies with an introduction to resource efficient and cleaner production, and guide any organisation on the first steps and subsidised services that will begin their low carbon journey.
Friday, 15 September, will focus on creating competitive advantage through resource efficient and cleaner production. The sessions will address “next step” topics such as renewable energy, sustainability reporting, green funding, sustainable value chains, and the professionalisation of the RECP sector. A highlight of day two will be the track on Life Cycle Thinking, which will address the concept of eco-innovation, measuring the carbon and water footprint of a product along the entire value chain.
Attendance is free of charge, but registration at www.ncpc.co.za/conference is essential.
