A new report predicting emissions free homes by 2020 has led to calls for 8 star standards. ??
Government support and stronger environmental building standards, could deliver emissions-free and water-efficient neighbourhoods, the Towards Climate Safe Homes report, commissioned by the environmental groups, found.
Emissions from the average home can be reduced by more than 75 per cent with energy efficient design and appliances, the report found.??It also argues for a 40 per cent water savings target to be applied to new homes.
“We would like to see 7 or 8-star standards introduced in the next 12 months and a stronger commitment to retrofitting existing houses to help low income and vulnerable Australians adapt to the impacts of climate change,” Environment Victoria’s campaigns director, Mark Wakeham, said.
The Alternative Technology Association’s (ATA) Ian Porter said climate proofing homes was not an optional extra. “It is time governments implemented systems to support households to reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy and water bills.” ??
The release of the report signals the beginning of a new national campaign calling on governments Australia wide to strengthen building standards for new homes, provide green makeovers for our existing houses and set zero emissions and water efficiency standards for new homes and neighbourhoods over the next decade.
