The Coalition's Emissions Reduction Fund: Inclusion of buildings welcome, but more detail needed

The Green Building Council of Australia is pleased that the Coalition's proposed Emissions Reduction Fund will cover buildings, but looks forward to further detail about how the scheme will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the building sector.

According to Chief Executive of the GBCA, Romilly Madew, Australia needs a comprehensive policy package to address greenhouse gas emissions from the building sector.

"An emissions trading scheme is an important part of the response to climate change, but policies that promote direct action are also important. In this context, we welcome the Coalition's commitment to energy efficient building projects as part of the Emissions Reduction Fund.

"Commercial and residential buildings in Australia are responsible for 23 per cent - or 130 mega tonnes - of the greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere each year.

"At the same time, buildings represent the single largest opportunity for greenhouse gas abatement, outstripping the energy, transport and industry sectors combined. With the right policy support, green building can be a cost-effective solution to our nation's climate change challenges.

"The Green Building Council of Australia will be encouraging all parties to develop election policies that will reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the building sector," Ms Madew concludes.

Contact:
Karen Jamal
Communications
Green Building Council of Australia
Phone: 0412 179 135
Email: karen.jamal@gbca.org.au