WA's housing industry gets Greensmart

11/10/01
Western Australia's first key 'environmental plan of action' for the housing sector was launched today by Environment and Heritage Minister Dr Judy Edwards.
GreenSmart, an initiative of the Housing Industry Association, aims to increase energy efficiency, minimise waste and encourage better environmental management throughout all stages of the residential building process.

Over a dozen local building companies and industry representatives kicked-off the initiative in Western Australia by becoming the first GreenSmart Professionals and GreenSmart Partners in the program.
Dr Edwards welcomed the initiative as another step forward in promoting sustainable development.
"Through the Housing Industry Association, this initiative will provide an over-arching, holistic focus on sustainability issues for nearly 90 per cent of the residential building and land development sector," she said.
"By forging a Greensmart network between builders, manufacturers, trade contractors and community organisations, the housing industry can inspire and foster stronger environmental management."
Program initiatives include the adoption of a Greensmart code of conduct for companies, industry forums promoting 'green' residential design and construction and environmental training and accreditation for industry professionals.
Dr Edwards said potential environmental benefits from the program included:

• reduced energy and water consumption;

• less waste to landfill;

• more appropriate use of materials; and

• a cleaner, environmentally friendly living space for home owners.

Industry partners include Dale Alcock Homes, Solar Dwellings, Glenway Homes, N-Viron Building and Tecnica Drafting. Two State Government agencies, the Department of Housing and Works and LandCorp, have also joined the program.
Media contact: John Carey 9220 5050