The Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC) congratulates the NSW Government on its commitment to progress a meaningful climate transition, through a comprehensive new plan.

“At a time when the resilience of our communities is at the forefront of our minds, it is heartening to see the NSW Government taking a leadership role in addressing the climate emergency; offering a bright vision amidst the current pall.” said ASBEC’s Executive Director, Suzanne Toumbourou. “

Today’s release of the NSW Government’s Net Zero Plan Stage 1: 2020-2030 is focussed on growing jobs and the economy, whilst reducing emissions, via four “net zero priorities”: driving uptake of emissions reduction technologies; empowering consumers and businesses to make sustainable choices; investing in emissions reduction innovation; and leadership in NSW Government procurement.

The NSW Government has recognised the importance of built environment in reaching a bold emissions target, by prioritising measures including:

• Expansion of the NABERS rating scheme to major building types including schools, retirement living, industrial warehouses, retail tenancies, and supermarkets;
• Amendments to the National Construction Code and the Building Sustainability Index (BASIX);
• Growing the market for sustainable building materials; and
• Embedding sustainable building material standards and targets into the design and construction of major NSW Government infrastructure projects.

“A strong emphasis on resource-efficient Government procurement shows they are serious about walking the net zero talk!” said Ms Toumbourou. “As Australia’s largest economy, there is enormous potential for NSW to nudge the entire country towards a more climate-friendly trajectory.”

“We congratulate the NSW Government on setting this decisive course for a much-needed climate transition and are excited about working together to deliver a more sustainable, resilient and liveable built environment.” said Ms Toumbourou.

Read NSW Government Net Zero Plan Stage 1: 2020-2030

Download full media release here