Articles

The Building Sustainability Index (BASIX) is a government initiative aimed at reducing the environmental impact of residential buildings by setting minimum standards for energy and water efficiency. While the objectives of BASIX are commendable, achieving compliance can present significant challenges for homeowners, builders, and developers.   Here we will explore some of the most common hurdles encountered and offer practical strategies for overcoming them. Table of Contents Understanding BASIX Requirements BASIX

This article delves into the principles of thermal modelling, its key benefits, and its integration with other sustainability tools.    We will explore how thermal modelling can help optimise building design, enhance energy efficiency, and ensure occupant comfort, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable built environment. Table of Contents Why Thermal Modelling Matters In Australia, where energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions from buildings are significant concerns, incorporating thermal modelling

As the construction industry strives to enhance environmental sustainability for Australian homes, certifications like NatHERS and BASIX play a crucial role in achieving these goals.   These sustainability assessments ensure that buildings meet specific environmental standards, focusing on energy efficiency, water conservation, and thermal comfort.   While both BASIX and NatHERS contribute to improved energy efficiency, they differ in scope, application, and requirements.   This guide explores the key differences,

Australia’s construction industry has a robust building regulatory framework to ensure safe, accessible, and sustainable buildings.   The National Construction Code (NCC) is the primary regulatory instrument, and it sets the standards for building design and construction. The NCC incorporates energy efficiency goals which aim to address climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.   Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) provisions within the NCC provide solutions for meeting regulatory performance requirements.   Sometimes

According to the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW), in 2020, non-residential buildings accounted for 24% of national electricity consumption [source]. The commercial building sector is a significant contributor to Australia’s overall energy consumption, highlighting the importance of energy efficiency measures like those outlined in Section J of the NCC.   A JV3 assessment is a performance-based pathway used to demonstrate energy efficiency compliance for commercial

For construction professionals, builders, developers, and architects, energy efficiency is a critical factor in commercial building projects with commercial buildings accounting for 24% of national electricity consumption [source].   In Australia, the National Construction Code (NCC) mandates strict energy efficiency standards to ensure buildings are energy efficient. Compliance is demonstrated through a Section J Assessments or JV3 Reports.   Learn the differences between the two pathways, and how choosing the

What is Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD)? Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) is a holistic approach to building design and development that minimises the negative impact on the environment while enhancing the quality of life for occupants.   It involves integrating environmental considerations into every stage of a project, from planning and design to construction techniques and operation. ESD aims to reduce resource consumption, waste, and pollution, while promoting energy efficiency, water