GBCA wins longest-running sustainability award

30 Nov 2018

30 November 2018

The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) is thrilled that the Banksia Foundation has awarded it the NFP and NGO Award for its Green Star certification initiative.

The Banksia Awards, now in their 30th year, are Australia’s longest running sustainability awards.  GBCA chief executive officer Romilly Madew said it was a tremendous honour on behalf of the team and industry to achieve this recognition.

“Everyone at the GBCA, together with our members, supporters, partners and Green Star certified project participants have played a role in sustainably transforming Australia’s built environment,” Ms Madew said.

“This award is a recognition of their passion, professionalism and tremendous hard work and something to be extremely proud of.

“This year has been one of many milestones for the GBCA, including releasing the Carbon Positive Roadmap, Starting the Future Homes project and certifying our 2000thGreen Star project not least among these.

“The Banksia Award is particularly meaningful as it assesses excellence under the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. It recognises the transformative impact of Green Star across the built environment, as well as our Carbon Positive Roadmap hailed as world leading.

“The Roadmap is an essential tool because action across the built environment is needed to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees as outlined in the Paris Agreement.”

The 2018 Banksia Sustainability Awards Judges said the “Green Building Council of Australia stood out for its strong impact on the environment. 

“Green Building Council of Australia not only demonstrates their success, but the importance of a program such as theirs in contributing to the future of sustainable living.”

Graz van Egmond, CEO of the Banksia Foundation said: “We were thrilled with the calibre of entries to the Awards, and the winners’ commitment to progressing the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. It’s wonderful to be able to connect their work here in Australia with a global drive for change. They should be very proud of the impact they are

Ms Madew congratulated her team on the result and reflected on what their efforts are achieving into the future.

“Australia’s cities, with their world-class amenities, natural assets, low-crime rates and engaged, diverse citizens, are the envy of the world,” Ms Madew.

“However, as the population of our largest cities continue to expand – doubling in size over the next 15 years – their inclusivity and sustainability are at risk. 

“Our Roadmap sets targets for new buildings and fitouts to have no carbon emissions from their operations by 2030. Existing buildings and fitouts must have no carbon emissions from their operations by 2050 or earlier.”