By Peter Stewart, Eco Voice

The Australian government, with the backing of the Greens, announced that there would be a fixed price on carbon beginning in July 2012.

How this will actually be implemented is still being debated, but either way it at least shows that the government recognises the need to address pollution and the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere. It was a matter of when not if this would be implemented, so it stands to reason that Australia should begin now to prepare for what will eventually become a new global market.

Clearly then to get ready for this and an emissions trading scheme, it makes sense that individuals, families and business re-evaluate and reorganise all aspects of their existence before its implementation next year. After all, prior planning and preparation prevents poor performance.

Some years ago, with great foresight into the future of the Australian marketplace, Directors Tim Langdon and Craig Willian developed Carbon Market Pty Ltd www.carbonmarket.com.au, an online portal for sourcing clever green solutions, and a platform for accessing all aspects of carbon management.

Since October 2007, Carbon Market has grown to host nearly 700 like minded entities that showcase their offerings in an easy one stop shop for eco friendly products and services. What's also unique is that it's free to register and list products on the site and small costs are only incurred if results are achieved.

"Carbon Market is an essential tool for any business in the green market place to help promote their offerings and ensure a smooth transition to a low carbon future" says Langdon.

Moving forward larger companies will be looking at low carbon options in their supply chain so it makes sense for SME's to up the ante and showcase their offerings on Carbon Market.

Once businesses have been approved on Carbon Market then they are free to upload their products and/or services into applicable categories. These can be updated or altered whenever needed and the secure ANZ e-gate shopping cart ensures confidentiality and safe financial transactions. An added bonus is that newly registered businesses are invited to send in a media release to Eco Voice to further help promote their business.

Carbon Market was initially built to promote the green market place and sustainable options but is now also applicable to mainstream business as they look at ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Indeed there is no reason for any green businesses not to be on Carbon Market.

As a centralised place for eco friendly options and carbon management, it should be a part of the marketing plan of every green entity in Australia. As a resource, it should be a part of the research plan for every business throughout the nation.