Could Canberra become the world’s greenest capital?

Canberra has the potential to become the world’s greenest capital city – but this demands bold and visionary leadership in the next term of government, says the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA).

As Canberrans head to the polls for the ACT elections this weekend, the GBCA’s Chief Executive Officer, Romilly Madew, urges all political parties to seize the sustainability agenda.

“The ACT has positioned itself as a leader on climate action for a number of years, with ambitious greenhouse gas reduction targets and a comprehensive plan to achieve net zero emissions by 2060,” Ms Madew says.

“The ACT has 71 Green Star-rated buildings – including offices, schools, university buildings, apartments and the first Green Star hotel in the country. The ACT Government has constructed four Green Star schools, and two more are in the pipeline. It has also committed to achieving Green Star certification for the new ACT Law Courts.

“Meanwhile, Ginninderry, a joint venture project between the Land Development Agency and Riverview Developments, is the first community in the region to achieve a 6 Star Green Star – Communities rating, representing world leadership is sustainable precinct design.

“The ACT Government has developed policies and programs to support Canberrans’ transition to a zero carbon future – whether that’s through its climate change adaptation strategy or the carbon neutral framework.

“The Canberra community is also brimming with some of the nation’s great innovators, academics and entrepreneurs who together can transform Canberra into a truly sustainable city.

“All the fundamentals are in place for the ACT to accelerate its sustainability agenda. But bold and visionary leadership must be the hallmark of the next term of government – regardless of which party wins office.

“Canberra is in a unique position globally – large enough to be taken seriously on a world stage, but small and agile enough to adapt and change direction quickly.

“With steadfast commitment, Canberra can show the world what it takes to become the world’s greenest capital,” Ms Madew concludes.