COURSE OVERVIEW:
Welcome to the Environmentally Sustainable Practices in Automotive Operations course. This training has been developed to support professionals working in automotive retail, servicing, and repair to implement practical, compliant, and measurable strategies for reducing environmental impact across daily business operations.
Sustainability is no longer optional in modern automotive businesses—it is a critical responsibility that influences environmental health, business reputation, and long-term profitability. This course begins by highlighting the importance of environmental accountability and explores the economic, social, and ecological benefits of embedding sustainable practices. It also examines the legal obligations and reputational risks associated with poor environmental performance, and the increasing expectations placed on workshops and retail outlets by regulators, customers, and communities alike.
Understanding how automotive activities impact the environment is essential to managing risk. This section investigates common forms of pollution arising from automotive operations, including oil leaks, solvent fumes, and particulate emissions. Participants will also examine the significant use of resources such as water, electricity, and disposable materials, as well as the volume and types of waste generated across sales, service, and repair settings.
Legal compliance underpins all environmental activities. This section provides an overview of applicable legislation and EPA regulations in Australia, alongside industry codes of practice that govern pollution control and waste management. It also explains the role of environmental licensing, council requirements, and the importance of preparing for inspections and compliance audits.
Environmental risk management begins with identification. This section outlines how to map workshop and retail processes that affect air, soil, and water quality. Participants will learn to recognise activities that pose high environmental risks and use risk assessment tools to implement controls based on likelihood, severity, and regulatory priority.
Responsible waste management is a core component of sustainable practice. This section focuses on segregating general, recyclable, and hazardous waste streams using best-practice systems such as colour-coded bins and authorised collection services. It also covers the correct handling of used oils, tyres, batteries, and chemical containers, as well as the importance of accurate waste manifest documentation.
Recycling reduces landfill and recovers resources. This section explains how to identify recyclable parts and materials—including scrap metal, filters, and plastics—and how to engage with registered recycling partners. Participants will also learn to monitor recycling outputs and track landfill diversion rates as part of environmental performance reporting.
Reducing energy use lowers operating costs and carbon emissions. This section provides strategies for increasing energy efficiency through LED lighting, sensor-based controls, and upgrading workshop equipment. Participants will also explore how to minimise energy waste by reducing standby power and idling equipment, while reviewing consumption data for continuous improvement.
Water conservation supports both environmental and regulatory goals. This section explores how to minimise water usage in cleaning, detailing, and mechanical work by installing shut-off nozzles, using high-efficiency washers, and capturing water from wash bays. It also addresses how to prevent runoff into stormwater systems and waterways.
Spill control is vital for environmental safety. This section outlines the importance of bunded storage areas, spill containment systems, and regular inspections. Participants will learn how to maintain and use spill kits, train staff in emergency response procedures, and ensure safe handling of lubricants, fuels, and chemicals to minimise contamination risks.
Product selection directly affects environmental impact. This section focuses on how to choose environmentally preferable options such as biodegradable cleaners, low-VOC paints, and refillable containers. It also explains how to reduce reliance on toxic or non-degradable substances in everyday workshop activities.
Air emissions from automotive work can pose health and environmental risks. This section addresses how to control emissions from exhaust systems, spray booths, and cleaning processes using ventilation, extraction, and filtration systems. It also explores compliance with air quality regulations applicable to workshops and spray areas.
Sustainability includes helping customers make greener choices. This section explores how to offer services that promote fuel efficiency and emissions reduction, including hybrid and EV servicing, eco-maintenance advice, and tyre pressure checks. It also promotes environmental education as part of the customer service experience.
Embedding sustainability into routine operations ensures lasting impact. This section provides examples of small daily actions—such as turning off unused lights, reducing printing, and reusing packaging—that contribute to long-term environmental goals. Emphasis is placed on staff involvement and consistency in practice.
Monitoring environmental performance is key to accountability. This section outlines how to track usage of electricity, water, and materials, maintain logs for inspection, and set measurable KPIs for performance review. Participants will also learn how to use data to identify trends and highlight areas for targeted intervention.
Reporting achievements promotes transparency and drives improvement. This section discusses how to produce internal sustainability reports, share success stories with staff and customers, and celebrate milestones such as reduced waste or energy savings. Effective communication builds stakeholder confidence and team pride.
Sustainability requires continual improvement. This final section explores how to review policies, update procedures, and benchmark against industry best practice. Participants will learn how to set forward-looking goals, introduce new innovations, and ensure that environmental responsibility remains central to the business culture.
By the end of this course, you will be equipped with the knowledge, tools, and practical strategies needed to implement environmentally sustainable practices in automotive operations—enhancing compliance, efficiency, and reputation while contributing to a cleaner and more responsible industry.
Each section is complemented with examples to illustrate the concepts and techniques discussed.
LEARNING OUTCOMES:
By the end of this course, you will be able to understand the following topics:
1. Introduction to Sustainability in Automotive Operations
- The importance of environmental responsibility in automotive businesses
- Economic, social, and environmental benefits of sustainable practices
- Legal and reputational implications of environmental performance
2. Understanding Environmental Impacts of Automotive Work
- Pollution from fluids, fumes, and particulate emissions
- Resource usage: electricity, water, and consumables
- Waste generation in retail, servicing, and repairs
3. Relevant Legislation, Standards, and Industry Guidelines
- Overview of environmental laws and EPA regulations
- Industry codes of practice for pollution control and sustainability
- Role of licensing, compliance audits, and council requirements
4. Identifying Environmental Aspects and Risks
- Mapping processes that impact air, water, soil, and biodiversity
- Identifying key environmental risks in daily operations
- Using risk assessments to prioritise controls
5. Managing Waste Streams Responsibly
- Segregating recyclable, hazardous, and general waste
- Handling used oils, filters, tyres, batteries, and chemicals
- Using colour-coded bins, waste manifests, and authorised recyclers
6. Recycling Automotive Parts and Materials
- Identifying reusable and recyclable components
- Partnering with registered recycling providers
- Tracking volumes diverted from landfill
7. Reducing Energy Consumption in Workshops and Retail Spaces
- Using LED lighting, sensor systems, and energy-efficient equipment
- Minimising standby power use and unnecessary machinery idling
- Conducting regular energy usage reviews
8. Conserving Water in Cleaning and Workshop Activities
- Using high-efficiency water systems and shut-off nozzles
- Capturing and recycling wash bay water
- Avoiding water runoff into stormwater systems
9. Implementing Spill Prevention and Containment
- Using bunding, drip trays, and sealed storage areas
- Maintaining spill kits and training staff on emergency response
- Regular inspections of storage tanks and handling practices
10. Choosing Environmentally Friendly Products and Materials
- Selecting low-toxicity, biodegradable, or recycled options
- Using refillable packaging and bulk containers
- Avoiding products with high VOC or persistent pollutants
11. Managing Air Emissions from Automotive Activities
- Controlling exhaust fumes, spray paint mists, and vapours
- Ensuring proper ventilation, filters, and exhaust capture systems
- Maintaining compliance with local air quality regulations
12. Promoting Fuel Efficiency and Low-Emission Vehicle Services
- Offering hybrid and electric vehicle maintenance
- Advising customers on eco-driving and maintenance benefits
- Promoting tyre pressure checks and emission system servicing
13. Integrating Sustainability into Daily Workshop Practices
- Turning off unused equipment and lights
- Reusing packaging and materials where safe
- Reducing printing and using digital alternatives
14. Recording and Monitoring Environmental Performance
- Tracking water, waste, and energy usage
- Maintaining records for inspections and internal reviews
- Setting and monitoring environmental KPIs
15. Reporting and Communicating Environmental Achievements
- Producing internal sustainability reports
- Sharing outcomes with staff, suppliers, and customers
- Celebrating waste reductions, cost savings, and milestones
16. Continual Improvement in Environmental Sustainability
- Reviewing policies, procedures, and outcomes regularly
- Benchmarking against industry best practice
- Setting goals for future improvements and innovation
COURSE DURATION:
The typical duration of this course is approximately 2-3 hours to complete. Your enrolment is Valid for 12 Months. Start anytime and study at your own pace.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS:
You must have access to a computer or any mobile device with Adobe Acrobat Reader (free PDF Viewer) installed, to complete this course.
COURSE DELIVERY:
Purchase and download course content.
ASSESSMENT:
A simple 10-question true or false quiz with Unlimited Submission Attempts.
CERTIFICATION:
Upon course completion, you will receive a customised digital “Certificate of Completion”.