Warren Overton, chief executive officer of the Australian Glass and Glazing Association, has more than 20 years of experience in the government, education and private sectors.
He has worked in scientific research, government policy and program delivery, facilities management and ESD consulting.
Architecture & Design spoke to him about working as a hydrogeologist, his scientific research background and sustainability challenges for the industry.
You started out as a hydrogeologist. How did you make the change into what you're doing now?
I had a broad urban sustainability interest due to my involvement with some community environmental groups and managed to get a job with the federal government on the Greenhouse Challenge program as they wanted someone with a science/technical background with database experience. My interest in sustainable buildings grew from there.
You have been involved with scientific research delivery. How has this influenced the work you're doing now?
It has made me more fact/evidence based when I am delivering projects or assessing opportunities. It also means I am a bit of a new technology junkie and I am always interested in new ideas and systems.
What do you think is the biggest challenge for the property industry at the moment?
Getting owners, developers and occupiers to have a long-term view on our buildings and also understand the significant impact they have on our health and wellbeing.
What are the greatest barriers to sustainability in the property industry?
Lack of funding to invest in sustainability, short-term investment horizons and externalisation of environmental impacts and potential health/wellbeing benefits from investment decisions.
You developed the ANUGreen program. Can you tell A&D about it?
ANUGreen is the environmental management program of the Australian National University. The ANU committed significant funding over 10 years to support a comprehensive program, which I managed with a great team of staff and excellent support from both the administrative and academic parts of the university.
How much has glazing technology changed in the past 10 years?
I am pretty new to the industry, but from what I have seen so far, the industry is constantly evolving and developing new products to meet market demand.
What is one attitude you would like to see changed in the design industry?
Better collaboration between design disciplines to achieve an overall better design outcome.
