How to Choose a Sustainable Building Development

Going up? Why not choose an environmentally friendly apartment to call your home.

As of 2018 air pollution in NSW exceeded annual rates in 14 areas, bringing with it possible health concerns for Sydneysiders. That’s why it’s no surprise sustainable property developments, known as ‘green’ buildings are the way of the future. Their ability to provide for the needs of their residents whilst reducing their impact on the environment makes them a smart way to be more environmentally conscious. Want to know how to spot a sustainable building? Ayre Real Estate is here to elevate your knowledge, here’s what to look for.

01 Green Star Rating

A great starting point is to look for the building’s Green Star rating. Green Star is Australia’s national rating system for properties nationwide. The factors that determine whether a building gets their seal of approval is if they have utilised a sustainable design, construction process and operational model. A building will be approved as sustainable if it promotes efficiency and can demonstrate a significant reduction in its negative impact on the environment and occupants. Once a building has been certified you can be assured it upholds environmentally friendly practices.  When compared to average Australian buildings Accredited Green Star buildings can

- Produce 62% fewer greenhouse gas emissions
- Use 66% less electricity
- Consume 51% less potable water than minimum industry standards
- Recycle 96% of their construction and demolition waste

*source Green Building Council of Australia https://new.gbca.org.au/green-star

02 Sustainable Design

A passive design is of paramount concern. With Australia having an unpredictable climate a building’s ability to self-regulate can be instrumental in the reduction of air-conditioning and heating devices. Consequently, the energy usage of residents could be reduced in addition to saving up to 40% on energy bills. Passive design achieves this through orientation spatial zoning, thermal mass, ventilation, insulation, shading and glazing.

03 Energy Efficiency

The reduction of overall greenhouse emissions can be achieved through the installation of energy efficient fixtures and fittings. Some of the most commonly used green initiatives include water-saving shower heads and toilets, as well as LED bulbs. You can ensure the fixtures and fittings are energy efficient in an apartment by asking the agent or building manager.

04 Waste Reduction

Sustainable buildings should be designed with ways to minimise their water usage levels. Effective methods include incorporating water efficient fixtures and recapturing rainwater. Recapturing rainwater is particularly effective in countries like Australia that experience frequent droughts. Another element to consider is land use and ecology. Essentially, the building site chosen should be low in its environmental impact. This means it shouldn’t cause high levels of deforestation, land degradation or soil erosion.

05 Materials

The construction of green building developments should be comprised of sustainably sourced materials. Their ability to last longer, drastically reducing the carbon footprint they emit. Be aware that carpets, paints and other materials that are made of volatile organic compounds could negatively impact the environment and your health.

Benefits for the environment and the individuals living within sustainable building developments are a necessary step forward in protecting our planet.

If you are looking to buy an apartment in Sydney be sure to investigate greener buildings. As technology is constantly transforming the way we live, look for options to be ahead of the wave and  live sustainably without sacrificing creature comforts.

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If you are considering buying or selling your apartment in Sydney city or its surrounds, we would love to help you. Ayre Real Estate are specialists in apartment living and ready to help find your ideal property. Talk with us today to find out more.