WINTER is on its way, but it won't cool the hot topic of climate change. In this edition, we explore sustainable business and what companies across a broad spectrum are doing to contribute to cleaner, greener workplace practices.

South-east Queensland is slowly paving the way and setting national and international environmental standards for the future. Local company Foster's Brewery is now the most water-efficient brewery in the world, while developers such as the Raptis Group are implementing sustainable building practices on their projects. From multi-conglomerates to soul traders, every business can contribute, as we discover in our cover story. Access the story online and tell us how your company is doing its bit to ensure a cleaner, greener planet for generations to come. We will continue to bring the sustainability message to our readers via the businesses that are leading the way.

It's befitting that this month's opinion column is by Dr John Cole, from the Environmental Protection Agency. Businesses are partnering with the EPA, saving money by reducing water and energy use and minimising waste to gain market advantage. Mr Cole, who is the executive director of the Sustainable Industries Division, says the EPA supports a shift towards integrating environmental management into mainstream economic activities. He also outlines the State Government initiative ecoBiz, the EPA's signature partnership program with Queensland businesses.

We might be thinking green, but contrary to our front cover image, money does not grow on trees. The end of the financial year can be a taxing time for any small business. With June 30 quickly approaching, we corner the experts and get advice on getting the books in order.

Griffith University taxation law lecturer Brett Freudenberg warns the Australian Tax Office is cracking down on rogue businesses by increasing the regularity of audits, while accountant Patricia Bakker says small business owners don't put enough planning into tax.

One person sure to have his tax in order is architect Glen Jones, the subject of the June young entrepreneur feature. Mr Jones was just 24 and had barely graduated from an architecture degree at Queensland University of Technology when he started his own business, Space Cubed. His company now turns over half a million dollars a year and has more than 200 projects under its designer belt.

Our leadership story looks at one of the largest shed building companies in Australia. The company also exports buildings to more than 20 countries and employs 50 staff under its holding company, Steelx. Company director Mike Folwell shares some advice on leadership and says Steelx's employment motto is 'creating jobs for hardworking Australians'.

And finally,

Congratulations to all the winners.