The first comprehensive overview of the sustainability frameworks commonly used for New Zealand’s buildings has been published by the New Zealand Green Building Council (NZGBC) and Property Council New Zealand.
The Ratings Snapshot provides an overview of the sustainable rating tools available in New Zealand and how they can be applied.
“The built environment is 20% of our emissions. There are some great tools to help the those in the sector to decarbonise and reduce the impact of their projects. This snapshot provides a useful reference point for designers, developers, investors and others as we strive to dramatically decarbonise our sector” Green Building Council chief executive Andrew Eagles says.
The NZGBC runs the Green Star, NABERSNZ, Homestar, HomeFit, and CarboNZero for Building Operations frameworks.
There is also a summary of other schemes developers and building owners have access to such as the IS Rating scheme for infrastructure, and internationally developed tools such as LEED, BREEAM, Passive House and WELL.
“It’s really important we get moving on this. The buildings we build are five times our current carbon budget. This snapshot helps lay out the tools available to reduce emissions and improve health, providing an overview of the scope, objectives and governance of each tool.” Andrew Eagles says.
The need for trusted, independent ratings, standards and frameworks is growing as consumers demand sustainable buildings, and companies are tasked with reporting against climate targets and obligations.
“Many of our members have net zero, and environmental, social and governance (ESG) reporting commitments and are proactive within this space already. However, one of the challenges for smaller organisations is determining where to start. Fortunately, there are already great tools available, they’re just not always widely understood. This is where the Ratings Snapshot comes into play, to help educate the sector on which tools are most appropriate for each property or development,” Property Council chief executive Leonie Freeman says.
The document is designed to facilitate conversations between property developers, architects, engineers, and advisors from board level through to project teams.
Notes for editors
This Ratings Snapshot has been produced by NZGBC and Property Council New Zealand based on a version originally developed by the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC) and in consultation with representatives from the rating organisations and managing entities of featured standards and rating tools.
Given the ever-evolving nature of these tools, this document is not designed as a comprehensive compendium of all sustainability rating tools. Rather, it is intended to provide stakeholders with an overview of the rating tools available in New Zealand and how they may be applied.
About the New Zealand Green Building Council
The New Zealand Green Building Council is a team of passionate advocates for better buildings, because we know that better buildings mean healthier, happier Kiwis.
Representing over 700 organisations and companies who believe in a better built Aotearoa, we advocate for regulatory and industry-wide change, provide independent and trusted certification, and support New Zealand on its path to a low carbon future.
About Property Council New Zealand
Property Council is the leading advocate for Aotearoa’s largest industry – property.
Property Council New Zealand is the one organisation that collectively champions property, bringing together members from all corners of the property eco system to advocate for reduced red tape that enables development.
Property is New Zealand’s largest industry, making up 15% of economic activity. As a sector, we employ 9% of New Zealand’s workforce and contribute over $41.2 billion to GDP.
A not-for-profit organisation, the Property Council connects over 10,000 property professionals, championing the interests of over 500 member companies.