Environmental management in the Hydro-Electric Commission

The Tasmanian Hydro Electric Commission (HEC) is a large and diverse organization, providing electricity generation, transmission, distribution and retail services throughout Tasmania. It is a significant manager of Tasmania's land and water resources and, as a consequence, has important environmental responsibilities. This paper outlines the background to conflict with the environmental movement over power generation development projects in south western Tasmania and the development of an environmental policy. As part of the environmental policy, the HEC has prepared environmental reviews, audits and risk assessment and is currently developing and implementing a comprehensive environmental management system. The HEC sees the introduction of the environmental management system as demonstrating a commitment to continuing environmental improvement and in establishing itself as a Tasmanian and national leader in the area of environmental management. 1 tab., 2 figs., 4 refs