26 Jul 2023
Masterchef judges, Powerhouse Parramatta and Bondi’s famous curve of sand are iconic, although perhaps not naturally associated with all-electric buildings. We are using these icons, and many more, to spread our sustainability message further than ever before.
When the Green Star rating tools were established, it was inevitable – necessary even – to begin with the technical. Systems and processes laid the foundations for a common language. But when this common language was articulated by technical specialists, it didn’t always resonate with everyone.
If we want to change everything, we need everyone. This is why we developed a new brand language for Green Star Buildings.
Next month we will be launching our communications campaign, Better buildings, today and tomorrow, to capture the hearts and minds of new audiences.
We’ve developed a range of industry fact sheets that speaks in the language of each stakeholder group. The 16.4% higher market value and 23% longer WALE is likely to catch the attention of developers and investors; occupiers may be more interested in slashing electricity costs by 66%. Leasing agents will also want hard facts (like 59% of employees expecting to work for companies that support their health and wellbeing).
We are sharing stories about the next generation of Green Star buildings, like the all-electric Powerhouse Parramatta. We are also amplifying our message with consumer audiences. (You may have seen us featured in the recent ABC news story about how home buyers are beginning to vote green with their wallets, for example).
One powerful way we are connecting with consumers is through the Global Cooksafe Coalition. This is now backed by $127 billion in assets, including those owned by GBCA members Lendlease, GPT Group, Frasers Property Australia, Cbus Property, Barangaroo’s International Towers and the Powerhouse Museum. These partners have committed that all new kitchens will be electric by 2030 and all existing kitchens retrofitted by 2040.
The pace of change is stepping up. This week, the Victorian Government has announced a ban on gas connections in new homes from next year. The gas sector is responsible for 17% of the state's emissions, which makes electrification an essential plank in the state’s net zero strategy.
Last week, Sydney’s Icebergs Dining Room and Bar overlooking Bondi Beach was the backdrop for a fabulous event bristling with celebrity chefs, including Masterchef judge Melissa Leong.
Icebergs’ head chef Alex Prichard showcased the restaurant’s electric kitchen. Then came a panel discussion, with a ‘mic drop’ from Global Cooksafe Coalition Ambassador Luke Burgess, who was working for the world’s best restaurant, NOMA, when it transitioned from gas to induction. When Luke's own restaurant moved from gas to electric it saved “over $30,000 a year in wages in cleaning alone” as cleaning time was chopped from 24 minutes to “just 21 seconds”. There’s a statistic to win over every restauranteur in the country!
In this month’s Green Building Voice, we share an interview with the Coalition’s new Australian Program Manager Virginia Jones, who says “we are at an important moment in time”. The GBCA and our partners think this too, which is why we are stepping up our investment in communication to champion the sustainability message even louder in the community.
We are holding up our side of the bargain while you, our Green Star advocates, continue to do what you do best – deliver better buildings, today and tomorrow.