Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00002:front:0:p121
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00002
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 351046–354138

Guidelines.

     9.6                 Resource use in park operations

Background
The Director supports environmental best practice principles in regard to the use of resources and management of waste products in the park. These principles are applied in matters such as the use of solar power for hot water heating in park houses and powering of bores, and building designs that minimise energy use for cooling. Environmental best practice principles are consistent with the need for conserving the park's natural and cultural values and Kakadu's status as a World Heritage area, and minimising the potential impacts associated with waste management practices.

An energy audit completed in 2009 (McMahon 2009) examined the park's energy consumption and identified opportunities for more efficient use of energy in park operations. A number of other strategies are being undertaken to help ensure visitor and other human impacts and uses of the park are sustainable (see Section 5.3: Managing park-wide threats affecting park values). Visitors, tour operators and commercial accommodation providers also need to be encouraged to use resources such as water and power more efficiently and to reduce waste.

Parks Australia is committed to reducing the carbon footprint of park operations and is working with research partners to improve understanding of the carbon cycle and how much carbon is stored and released due to different management actions. This information will be used to refine all park management policies and practices to minimise the carbon footprint of the park (see Section 5.3: Managing park-wide threats affecting park values).

Having people camp, stay and live in the park requires the provision of a range of basic services, including sustainable potable water supplies. Parks Australia undertakes regular water quality monitoring at ranger stations and camping areas. In addition, the West Arnhem Regional Council monitors groundwater quality and consumption within Jabiru (see Section 8.2: Jabiru).

Management issues

    * Within the park and the Kakadu region there is potential to improve waste management practices and the environmentally responsible use of resources.

    * Some groundwater resources are unsuitable or of limited use for people due to naturally occurring contaminants including uranium, arsenic, radon and high salt levels. The availability of suitable potable water supplies is an issue at some ranger stations and campgrounds. Groundwater could become contaminated over time due to leaching from rubbish dumps and from pit, composting and septic toilets if these are not properly managed. Groundwater can be depleted through heavy use, causing localised impacts on wildlife populations.

Policies

     9.6.1              Recycled and renewable resources and technologies will be used within the park where practicable to reduce the environmental impact of park operations.

     9.6.2              Where possible, renewable energy will be used in supporting park infrastructure.

Actions

     9.6.3              Undertake a review of the