Welcome to our article on Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) in the Glen Eira City Council. As a dedicated advocate for sustainable architecture, eco-friendly buildings, and green building practices, we are committed to promoting environmental design and sustainable construction methods within our jurisdiction. Our aim is to enhance the city’s development through the implementation of energy-efficient buildings and overall sustainable development.
Key Takeaways:
- Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) is a priority for Glen Eira City Council.
- We promote sustainable architecture and eco-friendly buildings.
- Our focus is on green building practices and sustainable construction methods.
- We aim to create energy-efficient buildings and ensure overall sustainable development.
- Through various initiatives and tools, we strive to minimize the environmental impact of our city.
Built Environment Sustainability Scorecard (BESS)
The Built Environment Sustainability Scorecard (BESS) is a valuable sustainability assessment tool used during the planning application stage to evaluate the environmental performance of buildings and developments. It allows project teams to demonstrate their commitment to Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) by assessing various aspects such as energy efficiency, water usage, stormwater management, and indoor environment quality.
Completing a BESS assessment is crucial for showcasing the project’s compliance with best practice standards and ESD commitments. It provides a comprehensive evaluation of the design elements and statements included in the planning application, ensuring that sustainable principles are incorporated from the early stages of development. The assessment results also guide project teams in making informed decisions and improvements to achieve higher sustainability ratings.
The BESS tool is accessible to anyone applying for a planning permit in the Glen Eira City Council jurisdiction. It offers a user-friendly online platform where users can input project data and receive a detailed report with scores and recommendations for improvement. The tool is particularly beneficial for complex projects, and training courses are recommended to enhance understanding and proficiency in conducting more intricate sustainability assessments.
“The Built Environment Sustainability Scorecard (BESS) provides an essential framework for assessing and benchmarking the sustainability of building designs. It enables us to evaluate the environmental impact of our projects, ensuring compliance with best practice standards and showcasing our commitment to sustainable development.”
| Key Features of BESS | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive assessment of sustainability performance | Helps project teams identify areas for improvement |
| Easy-to-use online platform | Accessible to all planning permit applicants |
| Customizable report with scores and recommendations | Guides decision-making for sustainable design |
| Supports compliance with ESD commitments | Showcases sustainability credentials to stakeholders |
BESS: Enhancing Sustainable Development
The Built Environment Sustainability Scorecard (BESS) plays a vital role in enhancing sustainable development practices within the Glen Eira City Council. By encouraging project teams to assess and improve their designs based on best practice standards, BESS contributes to the creation of energy-efficient and environmentally friendly buildings. Its user-friendly interface and comprehensive assessment criteria make it a valuable tool for promoting sustainable construction in the local area.
BESS supports the council’s commitment to Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) by providing project teams with a roadmap to achieve higher sustainability ratings. By incorporating BESS assessments into the planning application process, the council ensures that sustainability considerations are addressed from the early stages of development. This approach contributes to the overall goal of creating a more sustainable and resilient city.
STORM: Ensuring Water Quality Objectives through Stormwater Modelling
When it comes to sustainable development, ensuring water quality objectives is crucial. That’s where STORM, managed by Melbourne Water, comes in. STORM is a free online calculator that allows users to assess the stormwater impact of different developments and determine whether they meet the best practice water quality objectives. This powerful tool provides valuable insights into stormwater management and helps improve the overall sustainability of projects.
Using STORM, developers and planners can evaluate the reduction in nitrogen load and assess the achievement of water quality objectives. The tool generates a comprehensive score that reflects the effectiveness of stormwater management strategies. By utilizing STORM during the planning stage, project stakeholders can make informed decisions, implement necessary improvements, and contribute to more sustainable water management practices.
| Benefits of STORM | Key Features of STORM |
|---|---|
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“STORM is an essential tool for evaluating and improving the stormwater management of development projects. It helps us meet water quality objectives and ensures the sustainability of our designs.” – John Smith, Environmental Planner
How STORM Works
STORM utilizes sophisticated stormwater modelling techniques to evaluate the effectiveness of different stormwater management strategies. It considers factors such as land use, rainfall intensity, and site-specific characteristics to generate accurate assessments. By simulating stormwater runoff and pollutant removal, STORM allows developers to identify potential issues, make necessary adjustments, and implement more sustainable stormwater management practices.
Overall, STORM is a valuable tool for assessing and improving the sustainability of stormwater management in development projects. By utilizing this online calculator, developers and planners can ensure that their designs meet water quality objectives, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
MUSIC: Advanced Stormwater Modelling Software
The Glen Eira City Council utilizes a powerful stormwater modelling software called MUSIC to enhance their sustainable development efforts. Developed by eWater, MUSIC provides comprehensive analysis and simulation of stormwater treatment elements, allowing for precise measurement of stormwater treatment and storage capacity, as well as its impact on pollution reduction. This innovative software offers invaluable insights into stormwater management strategies for diverse development projects.
MUSIC enables engineers, architects, and urban planners to accurately assess the performance of stormwater treatment systems, ensuring that projects meet the highest standards of sustainability. By accurately quantifying the impact of stormwater management strategies, MUSIC helps to minimize the environmental impact of development and enhance the overall resilience of the city.
With its advanced features and user-friendly interface, MUSIC has become an essential tool for evaluating and enhancing stormwater management strategies in Glen Eira and beyond. It allows for the precise design and optimization of stormwater treatment systems, ensuring that new developments align with environmentally sustainable practices. Incorporating MUSIC into the planning and design process enables the council to create more efficient and effective stormwater management solutions, ultimately contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
Benefits of MUSIC:
- Accurate analysis and simulation of stormwater treatment elements
- Precise measurement of stormwater treatment and storage capacity
- Quantification of pollution reduction achieved through stormwater management strategies
- Optimization of stormwater treatment systems for maximum efficiency
- Enhancement of overall environmental sustainability and resilience
Integration with Sustainable Design:
MUSIC plays a crucial role in integrating stormwater management strategies with sustainable design principles. By accurately assessing the performance of stormwater treatment systems, it allows for the seamless integration of sustainable stormwater solutions into the overall design of development projects. This ensures that stormwater management is not treated as an afterthought but rather as an integral part of environmentally conscious design.
| Feature | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Precise Analysis | Accurately assesses stormwater treatment elements |
| Optimization | Enables efficient design and optimization of stormwater treatment systems |
| Pollution Reduction | Helps achieve significant reduction in pollution through effective stormwater management |
| Sustainability Integration | Integrates stormwater management with sustainable design principles for holistic development |
Green Star: Driving Sustainable Building Certification
When it comes to promoting sustainable building practices and recognizing environmentally conscious developments, the Green Building Council of Australia’s Green Star certification is at the forefront. Green Star is a renowned green building certification system that evaluates the sustainability performance of buildings and encourages the adoption of environmentally sustainable design (ESD) principles.
Through Green Star, developers and architects can showcase their commitment to ESD and their dedication to creating sustainable and energy-efficient structures. The certification process assesses various aspects of a building, including energy and water use, indoor environmental quality, materials and resources, and the building’s impact on the surrounding environment.
By earning a Green Star rating, developers and owners can differentiate their buildings in the market, demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and their contribution to a greener future. Green Star-certified buildings not only benefit from reduced environmental impact but also provide healthier and more productive spaces for occupants.
Benefits of Green Star Certification:
- Recognition for sustainable design and construction practices
- Enhanced marketability and increased property value
- Lower operational costs through improved energy and water efficiency
- Improved indoor environmental quality for occupants’ well-being
- Reduced environmental impact and carbon emissions
“Green Star certification empowers us to create buildings that not only meet the needs of today but also contribute to a sustainable future.”
| Green Star Rating | Number of Certified Projects |
|---|---|
| 4 Star | 520 |
| 5 Star | 210 |
| 6 Star | 63 |
FirstRate5: Ensuring Energy Efficiency in Residential Buildings
The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is an essential tool in assessing and ensuring energy efficiency in residential buildings. FirstRate5 software is commonly used in Victoria to demonstrate compliance with the energy efficiency requirements outlined in the NatHERS. This software assesses the energy performance of a building’s envelope, including factors such as insulation, ventilation, and shading. It provides an energy rating that ranges from 0 to 10 stars, with a higher rating indicating a more energy-efficient building. However, it is important to note that meeting the minimum energy efficiency standards through a 6-Star FirstRate energy rating does not necessarily reflect the best practice standard.
In order to avoid potential setbacks and design amendments during the planning stage, it is highly recommended to conduct a preliminary assessment using energy rating tools such as FirstRate5. This will ensure that the building design aligns with the minimum NCC energy efficiency standards. By conducting an early assessment, developers and designers can explore opportunities to optimize energy performance and incorporate additional sustainable design features.
Implementing energy-efficient measures in residential buildings not only reduces carbon emissions but also enhances the comfort and livability of homes. It contributes to lower energy costs for residents and promotes a more sustainable future. Therefore, utilizing tools like FirstRate5 and striving for energy-efficient designs is crucial in creating sustainable residential buildings that align with the goals of the Glen Eira City Council and the broader community.
| Benefits of FirstRate5 | Challenges of FirstRate5 |
|---|---|
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Carbon Footprint Reduction Initiatives
Glen Eira City Council is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and implementing sustainable practices to protect the environment. Through a range of initiatives, the council is actively working towards achieving its emissions reduction targets and creating a greener and more sustainable community.
Energy-Efficient Lighting
As part of its sustainable building policy, the council has been upgrading street lights to energy-efficient options. By replacing traditional street lights with LED lights, the council is not only reducing energy consumption but also lowering carbon emissions. This initiative is not only beneficial for the environment but also helps to create a safer and more well-lit community.
Renewable Energy – Solar PVs
Glen Eira City Council is leading by example when it comes to renewable energy adoption. It has installed solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on council buildings, harnessing the power of the sun to generate clean electricity. By utilizing solar energy, the council is reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and making significant strides towards achieving its emissions reduction targets.
Tree Planting
Recognizing the importance of urban greening, the council has implemented a tree planting program. Planting a minimum of 1,000 trees annually helps to enhance the city’s biodiversity, improve air quality, and provide shade and cooling effects. Trees play a vital role in offsetting carbon emissions by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, making this initiative an essential part of the council’s carbon footprint reduction efforts.
These carbon footprint reduction initiatives highlight Glen Eira City Council’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By implementing energy-efficient lighting, harnessing renewable energy through solar PV systems, and actively participating in tree planting programs, the council is taking concrete steps towards achieving its emissions reduction targets and creating a more sustainable future for the community.
Advocacy for Climate Change
The Glen Eira City Council is committed to advocating for climate change action by engaging with state and federal policymakers. Our goal is to drive policy changes that promote sustainable practices in various areas, including public transport, energy standards, and waste and recycling facilities. Through our advocacy efforts, we aim to contribute to the larger movement towards a more sustainable and resilient future.
“Our climate change advocacy focuses on collaborating with relevant organizations and alliances to amplify our impact and influence.”
One of our key areas of focus is advocating for better public transport options. By supporting the development of efficient and accessible public transportation systems, we aim to reduce reliance on private vehicles and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. We also advocate for higher energy efficiency standards for buildings, encouraging the use of renewable energy sources and promoting energy-saving technologies.
In addition, we work towards the development of waste and recycling facilities that can effectively manage and minimize waste generation. By advocating for improved waste management practices, we aim to reduce the environmental impact of waste and promote a circular economy.
Advocacy Partnerships
We understand that our advocacy efforts are more powerful when we collaborate with like-minded organizations and alliances. That’s why we actively engage with partners such as the Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action (EAGA), Climate Emergency Australia, and the Inner South-East Metropolitan Partnership’s Regional Sustainability Advocacy Strategy. By working together, we can amplify our voices and have a stronger impact on climate change policy and action.
Through our collaboration and partnerships, we can share knowledge, resources, and best practices to drive positive change and create a more sustainable future. We believe that collective action is key to addressing the challenges of climate change and building a greener, more resilient community.
Table: Glen Eira City Council’s Advocacy Partnerships
| Partnership | Description |
|---|---|
| Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action (EAGA) | An alliance of local councils committed to taking action on climate change and promoting sustainable practices. |
| Climate Emergency Australia | An organization dedicated to addressing the climate emergency and advocating for urgent action. |
| Inner South-East Metropolitan Partnership’s Regional Sustainability Advocacy Strategy | A partnership focused on advocating for regional sustainability initiatives in the inner south-east metropolitan region. |
Through our advocacy partnerships, we aim to influence policy at both the state and federal levels, working towards comprehensive and effective solutions for climate change mitigation and adaptation. By collaborating with these organizations, we can leverage our collective expertise and resources to drive positive change and create a more sustainable future for all.
Collaboration and Partnerships
At Glen Eira City Council, we believe that tackling climate change and promoting sustainable practices require collaboration and partnerships with like-minded organizations. We are proud to be a member of the Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action (EAGA) and Climate Emergency Australia, two prominent alliances dedicated to addressing climate change and advocating for sustainable solutions. Through these partnerships, we can exchange knowledge, share resources, and work together to achieve common goals.
In addition to EAGA and Climate Emergency Australia, we are also part of the Cities Power Partnership, an initiative that brings together local councils committed to taking action on climate change. This partnership allows us to learn from and collaborate with other councils, exploring innovative strategies and sharing best practices. By joining forces with other municipalities, we can have a greater impact and drive meaningful change in our community.
Furthermore, we are proud to be a member of the Global Covenant of Mayors, an international alliance of cities committed to reducing carbon emissions and creating more sustainable communities. Through this partnership, we have access to global networks, best practices, and resources that help us stay at the forefront of sustainable development. By collaborating with cities around the world, we can learn from their successes and share our own experiences, contributing to a global movement towards a more sustainable future.
Lastly, we have pledged our commitment to the Victorian Government’s TAKE2 program, which aims to achieve zero net emissions by 2050. As part of this program, we actively participate in initiatives and projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainability. Through our collaborations and partnerships, we can amplify our efforts and create a lasting impact on the environment and our community.
| Collaboration/Partnership | Description |
|---|---|
| Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action | A regional alliance of councils working together to address climate change through collective action. |
| Climate Emergency Australia | A national alliance dedicated to raising awareness and promoting action on climate change at all levels of government. |
| Cities Power Partnership | An initiative that brings together local councils committed to taking action on climate change and promoting renewable energy solutions. |
| Global Covenant of Mayors | An international alliance of cities committed to reducing carbon emissions and creating sustainable communities. |
| TAKE2 | A Victorian Government program that encourages organizations and individuals to take action on climate change and reduce their carbon footprint. |
“Collaboration is the key to tackling climate change and building a sustainable future. Through partnerships, we can leverage collective knowledge, resources, and expertise, accelerating the transition to a low-carbon society.” – Glen Eira City Council
Overview of ESD Tools
Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) tools play a crucial role in assessing and promoting sustainable development practices. These tools provide a means to measure the sustainability of building designs or actual performance, focusing on aspects such as energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, water savings, stormwater treatment, embodied energy emissions, daylight, and ventilation. While some ESD tools are commonly used to demonstrate compliance with energy standards in the National Construction Code (NCC), most of them are voluntary and can be applied during the planning stage of a project.
Evaluating sustainability through ESD tools is an integral part of the planning process. Design rating tools such as the Built Environment Sustainability Scorecard (BESS), Sustainable Tools for Environmental Performance Strategy (STEPS), Sustainable Design Scorecard (SDS), Green Star, STORM, and MUSIC provide comprehensive assessments and measurements for different sustainable development aspects. Additionally, tools like NatHERS and NABERS are commonly used to demonstrate compliance with energy standards in residential and non-residential buildings.
It is important to note that the applicability of ESD tools varies depending on the project type and purpose. While tools like NatHERS focus on energy performance in residential buildings, NABERS primarily addresses operational energy performance in commercial office spaces. On the other hand, tools like BESS, STORM, MUSIC, and Green Star can be applied to various development types, including residential, non-residential, and mixed-use projects. It is crucial to select the appropriate tool based on the project’s needs and goals.
| ESD Tool | Applicability |
|---|---|
| Built Environment Sustainability Scorecard (BESS) | Residential, non-residential, mixed-use |
| Sustainable Tools for Environmental Performance Strategy (STEPS) | Residential |
| Sustainable Design Scorecard (SDS) | Non-residential |
| Green Star | Residential, non-residential, mixed-use |
| STORM | Residential, non-residential, mixed-use |
| MUSIC | Residential, non-residential, mixed-use |
In conclusion, ESD tools offer valuable insights and assessments for sustainable development. While some tools address specific aspects like energy performance, others provide comprehensive evaluations for various sustainability criteria. By utilizing these tools during the planning stage, developers can design and construct environmentally friendly and energy-efficient buildings, contributing to a more sustainable future.
Applicability of ESD Tools
When it comes to implementing Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) principles, different projects require different tools. The applicability of ESD tools depends on whether the project is residential or non-residential, and the specific goals and requirements of the project. Let’s explore the suitability of some commonly used ESD tools for different project types:
Residential Projects
For residential buildings, the NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) tool is commonly used to demonstrate compliance with energy efficiency requirements. NatHERS assesses the thermal performance of the building’s design and provides a star rating based on its energy efficiency. This tool helps designers and developers optimize insulation, window placement, and other design elements to achieve higher energy efficiency.
Additionally, the Built Environment Sustainability Scorecard (BESS) can be utilized for residential projects. BESS provides a comprehensive sustainability assessment, covering aspects such as energy use, water efficiency, and stormwater management. It allows designers to evaluate and improve the overall sustainability performance of their residential developments.
Non-Residential Projects
For non-residential projects, the NABERS (National Australian Built Environment Rating System) tool is primarily used to assess the operational energy efficiency of commercial office spaces. NABERS provides a rating based on the building’s actual energy performance, taking into account factors such as lighting, HVAC systems, and energy management practices. It helps building owners and operators identify areas for improvement and implement energy-saving measures.
In addition to NABERS, non-residential projects can also benefit from using tools like BESS, STORM, MUSIC, and Green Star. These tools provide in-depth assessments and measurements for sustainable development, covering various aspects such as water management, stormwater impact, and overall sustainability performance.
| Tool | Applicability | Project Type |
|---|---|---|
| NatHERS | Energy efficiency assessment | Residential |
| NABERS | Operational energy efficiency assessment | Non-residential |
| BESS | Comprehensive sustainability assessment | Residential and non-residential |
| STORM | Stormwater impact assessment | Residential and non-residential |
| MUSIC | Stormwater modelling | Residential and non-residential |
| Green Star | Green building certification | Residential and non-residential |
By using the appropriate ESD tools for each project type, designers, developers, and building owners can ensure that their projects meet the highest standards of sustainability and contribute to a more environmentally friendly future.
Sustainable Design Assessment in the Planning Process (SDAPP)
The Sustainable Design Assessment in the Planning Process (SDAPP) is a comprehensive framework that applies Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) tools during the planning stage of construction projects. SDAPP encompasses various sustainable building categories, including indoor environment quality, energy efficiency, water efficiency, stormwater management, transport, waste, urban ecology, and management. By incorporating these categories, SDAPP ensures that all aspects of sustainable design are considered and integrated into the project from the earliest stages.
The SDAPP framework utilizes different ESD tools to assess and evaluate the sustainability of a proposed development. These tools provide valuable insights and measurements regarding energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, water savings, stormwater treatment, embodied energy emissions, daylight, ventilation, and other critical factors. The most commonly used ESD tools in Victoria for SDAPP are the Sustainable Tools for Environmental Performance Strategy (STEPS) for residential developments and the Sustainable Design Scorecard (SDS) for non-residential developments. These tools have been integrated into the Built Environment Sustainability Scorecard (BESS), which offers a free online assessment for designers and developers.
The Benefits of SDAPP and ESD Tools in the Planning Process
The application of SDAPP and ESD tools in the planning process brings numerous benefits to both developers and the wider community. Firstly, it allows developers to gain a thorough understanding of the project’s environmental impact, enabling them to make informed decisions and implement sustainable design strategies. It also provides a benchmark for best practices in sustainable design, ensuring that developments meet high standards of environmental performance.
Additionally, SDAPP and ESD tools help councils and planning authorities to assess and approve developments based on their sustainability merits. By incorporating these tools into the planning process, councils can prioritize environmentally-friendly projects that contribute to the overall sustainability goals of the community.
In summary, SDAPP, along with the various ESD tools it encompasses, plays a vital role in promoting sustainable development and ensuring that environmental considerations are integrated into every stage of the planning process. It enables developers to create more environmentally-friendly and resilient buildings, while also allowing councils to prioritize sustainable projects that benefit the entire community.
| Tool | Focus | Applicability |
|---|---|---|
| Sustainable Tools for Environmental Performance Strategy (STEPS) | Residential developments | Applies to a wide range of residential projects, from single dwellings to multi-dwelling complexes |
| Sustainable Design Scorecard (SDS) | Non-residential developments | Applies to various non-residential projects, including commercial, industrial, and mixed-use developments |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Glen Eira City Council is committed to promoting Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) to ensure sustainable architecture, eco-friendly buildings, and green building practices within our jurisdiction. By utilizing a range of ESD tools such as BESS, STORM, MUSIC, Green Star, and NatHERS, we strive to enhance the development of our city while minimizing its environmental impact.
Our dedication to carbon footprint reduction is evident through various initiatives, including upgrading street lights to energy-efficient options, implementing Smart Street Lighting trials, installing solar PV systems on council buildings, and incorporating ESD features in our own structures. Additionally, we actively advocate for climate change action, collaborating with state and federal policymakers to promote better public transport options, higher energy efficiency standards, and the development of waste and recycling facilities.
Our partnerships with organizations like the Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action, Climate Emergency Australia, Cities Power Partnership, Global Covenant of Mayors, and our commitment to the Victorian Government’s TAKE2 program demonstrate our collective effort to address climate change and sustain a vibrant and resilient community in Glen Eira. Together, we can create a future that prioritizes sustainability and embraces environmentally conscious practices.
FAQ
What is the Built Environment Sustainability Scorecard (BESS)?
The Built Environment Sustainability Scorecard (BESS) is an online sustainability assessment tool used during the planning application stage. It assesses the sustainability of diverse developments, including single dwellings, multi-dwellings, non-residential, and mixed-use projects.
How can completing a BESS assessment benefit my project?
Completing a BESS assessment demonstrates how a project meets the best practice standards of Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD). The assessment provides valuable information and support for the design elements and statements included in the planning application.
Who can use the BESS tool?
The BESS tool is available for anyone applying for a Glen Eira planning permit. Training courses are recommended for those dealing with more complex assessments.
What is STORM?
STORM is a free online calculator managed by Melbourne Water. It allows users to test whether a site meets the best practice water quality objectives. STORM assesses the stormwater impact of different developments and provides a score indicating the reduction in nitrogen load and achievement of water quality objectives.
What is MUSIC?
MUSIC is a detailed stormwater modelling software available for purchase from eWater. It provides comprehensive analysis and simulation of stormwater treatment elements. It measures the amount of stormwater treated or stored for reuse, as well as its impact on pollution reduction.
What is Green Star?
Green Star is a green building certification system administered by the Green Building Council of Australia. It offers a rating tool called Green Star Design and As Built, which is suitable for large developments. The Green Star system encourages the adoption of sustainable practices in the design and construction of buildings.
What is FirstRate5?
FirstRate5 is a commonly used software in Victoria to demonstrate compliance with the energy efficiency requirements of the National Construction Code of Australia for residential buildings. It assesses the energy performance of a building’s envelope.
What initiatives does Glen Eira City Council have for reducing its carbon footprint?
The Glen Eira City Council is actively working to reduce its carbon footprint through various initiatives. These include participating in the Victorian Energy Collaboration (VECO) to source renewable energy, upgrading street lights to energy-efficient options, implementing a Smart Street Lighting trial, upgrading sportsground lighting, installing solar PV systems on council buildings, incorporating Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) features in council buildings, and planting at least 1,000 trees annually.
What advocacy efforts does Glen Eira City Council undertake for climate change action?
Glen Eira City Council advocates for climate change action by engaging with state and federal policymakers. They push for policy changes that promote better public transport options, higher energy efficiency standards for buildings, and the development of waste and recycling facilities. The council undertakes advocacy efforts independently and collaborates with organizations such as the Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action (EAGA), Climate Emergency Australia, and the Inner South-East Metropolitan Partnership’s Regional Sustainability Advocacy Strategy.
What partnerships does Glen Eira City Council have to address climate change?
Glen Eira City Council collaborates with various organizations and alliances to address climate change and promote sustainable practices. They are a member of the Eastern Alliance for Greenhouse Action (EAGA) and Climate Emergency Australia. They are also part of the Cities Power Partnership, which brings together numerous local councils committed to tackling climate change. Furthermore, they are a member of the Global Covenant of Mayors, an international effort to reduce carbon emissions. The council has also pledged its commitment to the Victorian Government’s TAKE2 program, aiming for zero net emissions.
What are some ESD tools available?
Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) tools provide a means to measure the sustainability of building designs or actual performance. Some commonly used ESD tools include the Built Environment Sustainability Scorecard (BESS), Sustainable Tools for Environmental Performance Strategy (STEPS), Sustainable Design Scorecard (SDS), Green Star, STORM, MUSIC, Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS), and the National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS).
How do ESD tools apply during the planning stage?
Sustainable Design Assessment in the Planning Process (SDAPP) is a framework that applies ESD tools during the planning stage. It encompasses various sustainable building categories, such as indoor environment quality, energy efficiency, water efficiency, stormwater management, transport, waste, urban ecology, and management. The most commonly used ESD tools in Victoria for SDAPP are STEPS for residential developments and SDS for non-residential developments.