The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) has asked that the proposed $1.3 billion Crown casino and resort not gamble with Australia’s sustainable future and, what they believe, is a once-in-200-year opportunity for Sydney to build a sustainable landmark.
“The Crown Sydney Hotel Resort could join the Opera House and Harbour Bridge as an iconic Sydney sight. We must not waste this opportunity to create a landmark that can boost the local economy, create jobs and demonstrate environmental best practice,” said the GBCA’s Chief Executive, Romilly Madew.
The Crown Sydney Hotel Resort will be at the heart of Barangaroo South, which aims to be one of the world’s most environmentally sustainable precincts.
Meeting this ambition requires world-leading sustainable buildings, and the Barangaroo Delivery Authority has specified that all buildings in the precinct must achieve Green Star ratings.
“This will be the first high profile hotel to be built in Sydney for more than a decade. It’s absolutely essential that we get it right,” said Ms Madew.
“Getting it right means setting world-leading targets for sustainability and applying a robust method of measurement to ensure that the design, construction and operation of this building meet best practice benchmarks.”
“Without independent verification using a relevant rating tool, any project can be accused of ‘greenwash’, since the reality may not live up to the language.”
“And any project wanting the label of ‘world class’ must ensure that not only the pillows on the beds and the drinks behind the bar match the country’s brand of best practice, but that the development itself matches the best practice, independently rated buildings which already dominate the Sydney skyline.
“A Green Star rating will also provide an internationally recognised marketing tool to attract visitors and events’ organisers from around Australia and the world, especially those looking for an environmentally responsible venue.”
“This project, if undertaken with a commitment to sustainability, can reinforce Sydney’s international reputation as a world leader in innovative and sustainable development.”
“The people of Sydney deserve a landmark of which they can be proud. Let’s make sure the Crown Sydney Hotel Resort commits to Sydney’s sustainable future,” Ms Madew concluded.
