Article from Aim High newsletter – December 2006:
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Early in 2007 Australian Ethical will move its premises to a newly purchased office block at Trevor Pearcey House in Bruce, ACT. Before the move a refurbishment and fit-out will take place which will focus on environmentally sustainable improvements with the aim to achieve a green star rating. |
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The green star rating system is an initiative of the Green Building Council of Australia. The Council defines a green building as one that incorporates design, construction and operational practices that significantly reduce or eliminate the negative impact of development on the environment and occupants with strategies for addressing energy efficiency, greenhouse gas emission abatement, water conservation, waste avoidance, reuse and recycling, pollution prevention and reduced natural resource consumption.
The effect of buildings on the environment can be substantial. 40 per cent of waste going to landfill is from the construction and demolition of buildings, which equates to around 110 000 tonnes of waste each year. In Australia, commercial buildings produce 8.8 per cent of national greenhouse gas emissions.
The building purchased by Australian Ethical is approximately 1000 square metres and is in a complex with four other blocks. The work which will be undertaken for Australian Ethical will include:
- hydronic heating and cooling
- designated parking spaces for small cars and motorbikes
- bicycle racks for staff and visitors
- double glazing on windows and increased shading
- skylights
- added insulation and
- water tanks and water saving toilets and urinals.
The green refurbishment and fit-out work being undertaken is aligned with the ethos of the Australian Ethical Charter and should not only result in environmental benefits and resource efficiency but also in increased staff comfort and productivity.
Studies into green buildings have clearly shown their environmental benefits. These include a reduction in waste going to landfill through the reuse and recycling of materials, a reduction in energy and water consumption by up to 60 per cent and lower greenhouse gas emissions through the promotion of bicycle and smaller vehicle transport to and from the workplace.
While the environmental benefits are well recognised, there are also associated financial and human health benefits. Studies show that occupants of green buildings benefit from improved air quality and a more natural office environment. This translates into greater staff productivity, estimated as being up to 25 per cent, and in less staff turnover.