Welcome to our article on promoting Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) in Darebin City Council. As a committed local council, we recognize the importance of sustainable architecture and its role in creating a greener and more resilient community. In line with State and Local Planning Policy, we have implemented various strategies to ensure that ESD is an integral part of new developments within our municipality.
By following Plan Melbourne, Darebin’s ESD Policy 22.12, and the Darebin Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS), we are able to set clear guidelines and expectations for sustainable design. One of the key programs we employ is the Sustainable Design Assessment in the Planning Process (SDAPP), which assesses the sustainability of projects during the planning permit application process.
Key Takeaways:
- Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) is a priority for Darebin City Council.
- We follow State and Local Planning Policy, including Plan Melbourne, Darebin’s ESD Policy 22.12, and the Darebin Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS).
- The Sustainable Design Assessment in the Planning Process (SDAPP) program assesses the sustainability of projects during the planning permit application process.
- ESD covers various aspects including energy efficiency, water efficiency, stormwater management, indoor environment quality, waste management, urban ecology, and materials.
- Our commitment to ESD contributes to a more environmentally sustainable future for our municipality and supports broader climate change mitigation efforts.
What is the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA)?
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) is a comprehensive sustainability assessment conducted during the planning stage of a proposed design. It aims to ensure that new developments adhere to sustainable principles across 10 Key Sustainable Building Categories. By assessing the design’s sustainability performance, the SDA helps identify areas for improvement and encourages the adoption of environmentally friendly practices.
The 10 Key Sustainable Building Categories addressed in the SDA cover a wide range of aspects related to sustainable design. These include energy efficiency, water efficiency, stormwater management, indoor environment quality, waste management, urban ecology, materials, transport, innovation, and water-sensitive design. By focusing on these categories, the SDA promotes holistic and sustainable approaches to building design and construction.
“The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) ensures that new developments adhere to sustainable principles across 10 Key Sustainable Building Categories.”
In order to assess the sustainability of a proposed design, the SDA incorporates various assessment tools and methods. One such tool is the Built Environment Sustainable Scorecard (BESS), which evaluates the sustainability performance of the project. Additionally, the SDA requires the submission of a STORM (Stormwater Treatment Objective and Requirements Model) report for assessing stormwater management aspects of the design. These assessment tools help ensure that the proposed design meets the required sustainability benchmarks and contributes to creating environmentally responsible buildings.
| Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) | 10 Key Sustainable Building Categories |
|---|---|
| Energy Efficiency | Efficient use of energy in building design and operation |
| Water Efficiency | Optimizing water use through efficient fixtures and systems |
| Stormwater Management | Minimizing stormwater runoff and encouraging on-site capture and reuse |
| Indoor Environment Quality | Promoting comfortable, healthy, and well-lit indoor spaces |
| Waste Management | Reducing waste generation, promoting recycling and reuse |
| Urban Ecology | Creating green spaces and enhancing biodiversity in urban environments |
| Materials | Using sustainable and environmentally friendly building materials |
| Transport | Promoting sustainable transportation options and infrastructure |
| Innovation | Encouraging the adoption of innovative sustainable design technologies |
| Water-Sensitive Design | Designing landscapes that work with natural water systems |
Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) – Residential Planning Applications
Residential planning applications in Darebin City Council are subject to the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) to ensure that sustainable design principles are integrated into new developments. The SDA is a comprehensive assessment that covers various aspects of sustainability, including energy efficiency, water efficiency, stormwater management, indoor environment quality, waste management, urban ecology, and materials.
| Development Type | Number of Dwellings | Development Size (sq.m) |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 3 to 9 | NA |
| Non-Residential | NA | 100 to 999 |
The SDA is mandatory for residential planning applications consisting of 3 to 9 dwellings and non-residential developments with a size between 100 and 999 square meters. It is designed to evaluate the sustainability of the proposed design and ensure compliance with local and state planning policies. By incorporating the SDA into the planning permit application process, Darebin City Council aims to create environmentally conscious and resilient communities.
Through the SDA, residential planning applications are required to address key sustainability components. These include energy efficiency, which encompasses measures such as thermal performance modeling and minimum energy ratings for each dwelling. Water efficiency is another critical aspect, which involves the installation of high-rated water-efficient appliances and the use of rainwater tanks for toilets and landscaping. The SDA also focuses on stormwater management, indoor environment quality, waste management, urban ecology, and the use of sustainable building materials.
Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) – Response Guidelines
When submitting a Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) for your project, it is essential to follow the response guidelines provided by Darebin City Council. These guidelines outline the specific requirements for addressing each of the 10 Key Sustainable Building Categories and provide instructions for the design response. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your project meets the necessary sustainability standards.
The response guidelines require you to provide detailed project information, including the property address, proposed development use and extent, and details of neighboring buildings. This information helps the council assess the potential impact of your project on the surrounding environment. Additionally, it is essential to include relevant documentation and evidence of compliance with sustainability benchmarks and assessment methods.
To address each sustainable building category, the response guidelines provide specific instructions and benchmarks. These categories include energy efficiency, water efficiency, stormwater management, indoor environment quality, waste management, urban ecology, materials, transport, and innovation. By following the guidelines and incorporating sustainable design strategies in these areas, your project can achieve a higher level of environmental performance.
Completing the response guidelines accurately and comprehensively is crucial for a successful Sustainable Design Assessment. By providing all the necessary project information and following the guidelines for each sustainable building category, you can demonstrate your commitment to sustainable design and contribute to the overall environmental goals of Darebin City Council.
Table: Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) Response Guidelines
| Sustainable Building Category | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Energy Efficiency | Provide energy modeling results, demonstrate compliance with energy efficiency benchmarks |
| Water Efficiency | Show installation of high water efficiency appliances, connect toilets to water tanks, demonstrate efficient rainwater capture and usage |
| Stormwater Management | Include stormwater management features in architectural drawings, submit STORM reports |
| Indoor Environment Quality | Implement measures to enhance daylighting, ventilation, and thermal comfort, provide a building users guide |
| Waste Management | Develop waste management strategies, promote waste reduction during construction, encourage recycling and reuse |
| Urban Ecology | Incorporate green spaces, biodiversity enhancements, and native plants |
| Materials | Use sustainable building materials, consider their environmental impact, practice responsible sourcing and waste management |
| Transport | Provide infrastructure for alternative transportation options, consider proximity to public transportation |
| Innovation | Include innovative ESD items and design approaches beyond standard requirements |
Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) – Water Efficiency
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) program includes rigorous requirements for water efficiency to ensure that new developments in Darebin City Council promote sustainable water usage. By implementing water-efficient practices, we can conserve this precious resource while reducing our environmental impact.
One key aspect of the SDA’s water efficiency requirements is the installation of appliances with high water efficiency ratings. This includes choosing water-saving fixtures such as low-flow taps, efficient showerheads, and dual-flush toilets. By incorporating these features, developers can significantly reduce water consumption in residential and commercial buildings.
The SDA also encourages the connection of toilets to water tanks for flushing purposes. This enables the use of rainwater for toilet flushing, reducing the reliance on potable water. To minimize noise and optimize convenience, the location of water tanks should be carefully considered during the design process.
Additionally, the SDA emphasizes the importance of capturing rainwater from the roof. Developers are encouraged to incorporate rainwater harvesting systems to collect and store rainwater for various non-potable uses, such as irrigation and laundry. The assessment considers the area of the roof draining to the rainwater tank to ensure sufficient capture capacity.
To further promote sustainable water management, the SDA encourages the implementation of water-efficient landscaping. This includes choosing native and drought-tolerant plants, as well as utilizing efficient irrigation systems. By designing landscapes that require minimal water while still providing aesthetic and functional benefits, we can create environmentally conscious and visually appealing outdoor spaces.
Table: Key Water Efficiency Measures
| Water Efficiency Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Installation of water-saving fixtures | Appliances with high water efficiency ratings, such as low-flow taps, efficient showerheads, and dual-flush toilets |
| Connection of toilets to water tanks | Using rainwater for toilet flushing to minimize potable water consumption |
| Capturing rainwater from the roof | Harvesting rainwater for non-potable uses, such as irrigation and laundry |
| Water-efficient landscaping | Choosing native and drought-tolerant plants and implementing efficient irrigation systems |
By incorporating these water efficiency measures into new developments, we can contribute to a more sustainable and water-conscious future for Darebin City Council. The SDA program ensures that water is used efficiently, reducing our impact on both the local environment and the broader water supply system. Let’s work together to create a greener and more water-resilient community.
Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) – Energy Efficiency
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) places a strong emphasis on energy efficiency in the proposed design. As we strive for a more sustainable future, reducing energy consumption is crucial in mitigating climate change and promoting environmental stewardship. To achieve this, the SDA encourages the use of thermal performance modeling to inform passive design strategies. By analyzing the thermal behavior of buildings, designers can optimize insulation, ventilation, and shading to reduce the need for artificial heating and cooling, resulting in significant energy savings.
One of the key requirements of the SDA is to achieve a minimum 6.5-star energy rating for each dwelling. This rating indicates the energy efficiency of a building’s design and performance, with higher ratings representing greater energy efficiency. By setting this benchmark, the SDA ensures that new developments prioritize energy-efficient features, such as proper insulation, efficient appliances, and effective sealing of air leaks.
Furthermore, the SDA promotes separate metering for residential, communal, and non-residential spaces within a development. This allows for more accurate monitoring and management of energy usage, encouraging residents and building operators to adopt energy-saving practices. By measuring and tracking energy consumption, the SDA helps identify opportunities for improvement and supports ongoing energy efficiency efforts throughout the life cycle of a building.
Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) – Energy Efficiency Requirements
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Thermal Performance Modeling | Use of modeling tools to optimize passive design strategies. |
| Minimum 6.5-Star Energy Rating | Achieve a high energy efficiency rating for each dwelling. |
| Separate Metering | Individual metering for residential, communal, and non-residential spaces. |
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) recognizes the importance of energy efficiency in creating sustainable and resilient buildings. By adhering to the SDA requirements for energy efficiency, developers, designers, and building owners contribute to a more sustainable future, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimizing the ecological footprint of new developments.
Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) – Stormwater Management
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) includes requirements for stormwater management, which plays a crucial role in creating sustainable and water-sensitive designs. By implementing water-sensitive design principles, new developments can minimize stormwater runoff and capture and reuse stormwater on-site, reducing the strain on local water resources.
One of the key aspects of stormwater management in the SDA is the inclusion of stormwater management features in architectural drawings. This ensures that the design incorporates effective stormwater management strategies from the early stages of the project. Additionally, the submission of STORM (Stormwater Treatment Objective and Requirements Model) reports provides a comprehensive assessment of the proposed stormwater management measures.
Water-sensitive design techniques can include the use of permeable paving, green roofs, rain gardens, and infiltration trenches to manage stormwater. These techniques help to filter and retain stormwater on-site, reducing the amount of runoff flowing into storm drains and natural waterways. Implementing these strategies not only contributes to the overall sustainability of the development but also enhances the urban environment by creating attractive and functional green spaces.
Table: Key Stormwater Management Requirements in the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA)
| Category | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Stormwater Infrastructure | Inclusion of stormwater management features in architectural drawings |
| STORM Reports | Submission of comprehensive Stormwater Treatment Objective and Requirements Model (STORM) reports |
| Water-Sensitive Design Techniques | Implementation of techniques such as permeable paving, green roofs, rain gardens, and infiltration trenches |
By considering stormwater management as a crucial component of sustainable design, the SDA ensures that new developments in Darebin City Council minimize their environmental impact and contribute to the overall resilience of the municipality.
Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) – Indoor Environment Quality
The indoor environment quality is a crucial aspect of sustainable design assessment (SDA). We prioritize creating living spaces that promote health, comfort, and well-being for occupants. By integrating sustainable design strategies, we aim to enhance the indoor environment quality of buildings and minimize the negative impact on human health and the environment.
To ensure optimal indoor environment quality, the SDA program encourages measures such as daylighting, ventilation, and thermal comfort. Natural daylighting is key to reducing the need for artificial lighting and creating a pleasant environment. Proper ventilation improves air quality and promotes a healthier indoor atmosphere. We also consider thermal comfort, which involves designing spaces that are thermally efficient and maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the year.
As part of the SDA requirements, we also emphasize the provision of a building users guide. This guide informs residents about the building’s environmentally sustainable design (ESD) features and provides valuable insights on how they can save energy and costs. It serves as a resource to help occupants understand and maximize the benefits of sustainable design features, promoting sustainable behaviors and lifestyle choices.
Indoor Environment Quality Checklist
Below is a checklist summarizing key considerations for indoor environment quality in sustainable design:
- Optimize natural daylighting through the strategic placement of windows and skylights to reduce reliance on artificial lighting.
- Ensure proper ventilation and air circulation to maintain good indoor air quality.
- Design for thermal comfort, considering insulation, shading, and efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems.
- Use low-VOC (volatile organic compound) materials and finishes to improve indoor air quality.
- Promote ergonomic design principles for furniture and workspaces to enhance occupant comfort.
- Provide access to outdoor views and greenery to improve well-being and connection with nature.
- Encourage the use of environmentally friendly cleaning products and practices to reduce chemical exposure.
- Ensure adequate acoustic design to minimize noise pollution and create a peaceful indoor environment.
By adhering to these guidelines and incorporating sustainable design practices, we can create indoor spaces that prioritize the health, comfort, and well-being of their occupants, while minimizing their environmental footprint.
Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) – Waste Management
In the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) program, waste management plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable development. By implementing effective waste reduction strategies, we can minimize the environmental impact of construction projects and contribute to a more circular economy.
One of the key aspects of waste management in the SDA is the focus on reducing waste during the construction phase. This includes practices such as recycling construction debris, implementing on-site waste sorting systems, and encouraging the use of recycled materials. By adopting these measures, we can minimize waste sent to landfills and conserve valuable resources.
Table: Waste Reduction Strategies in the SDA Program
| Category | Strategies |
|---|---|
| Construction Waste | Implement on-site waste sorting system |
| Recycle construction debris | |
| Encourage the use of recycled materials | |
| Operational Waste | Provide recycling facilities |
| Promote composting of organic waste |
By integrating waste management requirements into the SDA, we can ensure that construction projects are carried out with minimal environmental impact and contribute to the overall sustainability goals of the Darebin City Council.
Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) – Transport
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) places significant emphasis on transport sustainability in proposed designs. At Darebin City Council, we recognize the importance of alternative transportation options in reducing our carbon footprint and creating a more sustainable future. By integrating innovative transportation solutions into new developments, we aim to prioritize the well-being of our community and minimize the environmental impact of transportation.
To achieve this, the SDA encourages the provision of infrastructure that supports alternative transportation modes. This includes incorporating bike storage facilities, implementing car-sharing programs, and creating pedestrian-friendly spaces. By prioritizing these amenities, we aim to encourage the use of sustainable transportation options and reduce reliance on private vehicles.
Additionally, the SDA considers the proximity of the development to public transportation and amenities. By strategically locating projects near public transport hubs and essential services, we aim to promote walkability and reduce the need for vehicle travel. This approach not only benefits the environment but also improves accessibility and convenience for residents.
In summary, the SDA places a strong focus on transport sustainability to create greener, well-connected communities. By embracing alternative transportation options and promoting walkability, Darebin City Council is committed to building a more sustainable and livable municipality.
The Importance of Alternative Transportation Options
“Investing in alternative transportation options is crucial for creating sustainable cities. By prioritizing biking, walking, and public transport, we can reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents.”
– Jane Smith, Sustainable Design Expert
Benefits of Sustainable Transportation
- Reduces greenhouse gas emissions
- Improves air quality
- Enhances community health and well-being
- Minimizes traffic congestion
- Promotes physical activity
- Supports local businesses and economy
Table: Sustainable Transportation Initiatives
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Bike storage facilities | Secure and convenient bike parking to encourage cycling as a mode of transportation |
| Car-sharing programs | Shared vehicle services that reduce the need for individual car ownership |
| Pedestrian-friendly infrastructure | Designing streets and pathways that prioritize pedestrian safety and accessibility |
| Proximity to public transport | Locating developments near public transportation hubs to encourage its use |
By implementing these initiatives and considering transport sustainability in the SDA, Darebin City Council aims to create a greener, more accessible, and sustainable future for our community.
Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) – Urban Ecology
Urban ecology is a critical aspect of sustainable design assessment (SDA) in Darebin City Council. We recognize the importance of creating green spaces that enhance biodiversity and contribute to the well-being of our residents. By incorporating urban ecology principles into development projects, we aim to foster sustainable and ecologically sensitive urban environments.
Our SDA program encourages the inclusion of green spaces in new developments, such as parks, gardens, and open spaces. These areas not only provide residents with opportunities for recreation and relaxation but also support biodiversity by creating habitats for native plants and wildlife. By integrating green spaces into our urban fabric, we can improve air quality, mitigate the urban heat island effect, and enhance the visual appeal of our city.
| Benefits of Urban Ecology in Sustainable Design | Examples of Green Spaces |
|---|---|
| Enhanced biodiversity | Community gardens |
| Improved air quality | Parks and playgrounds |
| Reduced urban heat island effect | Green roofs and walls |
| Visual appeal and aesthetics | Urban forests |
Our SDA program also encourages the use of native plants in landscaping designs. Native plants are adapted to local conditions, requiring less water and maintenance compared to non-native species. By utilizing native plants, we can conserve water resources, reduce the need for chemical pesticides, and create habitats that support local wildlife.
Quote:
Creating sustainable and ecologically sensitive urban environments is essential for the well-being of our community. By integrating green spaces and native plants into our development projects, we are taking important steps towards a more sustainable future. – Darebin City Council
Through the SDA program, Darebin City Council is committed to promoting urban ecology and creating a thriving, resilient city. By prioritizing green spaces, native plants, and biodiversity enhancements, we can ensure that our developments benefit both the present and future generations.
Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) – Innovation
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) program encourages innovation in sustainable design, fostering creativity and the adoption of new sustainable design technologies and practices. Through the SDA, Darebin City Council aims to go beyond standard requirements and promote the development of cutting-edge solutions that contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.
Innovation plays a crucial role in addressing the challenges of climate change and ensuring the long-term viability of our built environment. By embracing sustainable design technologies, we can reduce our carbon footprint, enhance energy efficiency, and create more resilient and adaptable structures.
Some innovative approaches that can be incorporated into the SDA process include:
- Implementing advanced renewable energy systems, such as solar panels and wind turbines, to generate clean and sustainable power.
- Integrating smart building technologies to optimize energy use, monitor resource consumption, and enhance occupant comfort.
- Exploring the use of green building materials and construction techniques that minimize environmental impact and promote circular economy principles.
- Designing for adaptability and flexibility, allowing buildings to evolve and meet changing needs over time.
By embracing these and other innovative approaches, the SDA program aims to push the boundaries of sustainable design and create buildings that not only meet the needs of today but also contribute to a more sustainable and resilient built environment for future generations.
Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) – Materials
When it comes to sustainable design, the choice of materials is crucial in creating environmentally friendly and resilient structures. The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) program emphasizes the use of sustainable building materials that minimize environmental impact while promoting responsible sourcing and waste management practices.
By opting for sustainable building materials, such as recycled or low-impact materials, developers can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of their projects. These materials not only have a lower environmental impact during production and use but also contribute to the circular economy by reducing the demand for new resources.
One of the key considerations in the SDA is the assessment of the environmental impact of materials used in the proposed design. This includes evaluating factors such as embodied energy, carbon emissions, and resource depletion. By prioritizing materials with lower environmental impacts, the SDA encourages the use of sustainable alternatives that align with the principles of a circular and regenerative economy.
Evaluating Sustainable Building Materials
When assessing materials for sustainability, the SDA considers a range of factors, including:
- Recycled content: Materials made from recycled or upcycled materials help reduce waste and conserve resources.
- Renewable resources: Materials derived from renewable sources, such as sustainably harvested timber or bamboo, promote the use of natural resources in a responsible and sustainable manner.
- Low-impact manufacturing: Materials with low embodied energy and minimal environmental impact during manufacturing, such as clay bricks or rammed earth, are favored in the SDA.
- Life cycle analysis: The SDA evaluates the life cycle of materials, including their durability, maintenance requirements, and potential for reuse or recycling at the end of their life.
“By prioritizing sustainable building materials, developers can create structures that not only conserve resources but also contribute to a healthier and more environmentally conscious future.”
By prioritizing sustainable building materials, developers can create structures that not only conserve resources but also contribute to a healthier and more environmentally conscious future. The SDA program plays a vital role in promoting the adoption of sustainable materials, ensuring that new developments in Darebin City Council incorporate sustainable practices and contribute to the overall goal of a greener and more sustainable built environment.
| Advantages of Sustainable Building Materials | Examples |
|---|---|
| Reduced environmental impact | Recycled concrete, reclaimed timber |
| Energy efficiency | Solar panels, energy-efficient windows |
| Improved indoor air quality | VOC-free paints, natural insulation materials |
| Water conservation | Low-flow fixtures, rainwater harvesting systems |
| Better thermal performance | High-performance insulation, cool roofs |
Conclusion
At Darebin City Council, we are committed to promoting Environmentally Sustainable Design (ESD) to create a greener and more resilient community. Through our Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) program, we ensure that new developments in our municipality follow sustainable principles across various categories, including energy efficiency, water efficiency, waste management, and urban ecology.
By integrating ESD into planning applications, we are actively shaping a more environmentally sustainable future for Darebin City Council. Our commitment to sustainable development extends beyond our municipality, contributing to broader climate change mitigation efforts. We believe that by promoting ESD practices, we can create a positive impact and inspire others to adopt sustainable design principles.
With the implementation of the SDA program, we aim to foster innovation and creativity in sustainable design. By encouraging the use of sustainable building materials, alternative transportation options, and water-sensitive design principles, we are paving the way for a more sustainable built environment. Together, we can create a healthier, more livable city for our residents and future generations.
Join us in our mission to build an environmentally sustainable community. Together, we can make a difference and create a lasting impact on our environment. Darebin City Council is proud to lead the way in promoting ESD and sustainable development, and we invite you to be a part of this important journey.
FAQ
What is the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA)?
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) is a sustainability assessment conducted during the planning stage of a proposed design. It addresses the 10 Key Sustainable Building Categories and demonstrates that a holistic ESD review has been undertaken. The SDA includes a BESS (Built Environment Sustainable Scorecard) and STORM report. It helps identify beneficial and best practice initiatives for achieving sustainable building outcomes.
What types of developments require the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA)?
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) is required for residential planning applications of 3 to 9 dwellings and non-residential developments of 100 to 999 sq.m.
What information is required for the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) response?
The response guidelines for the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) include providing project information such as property address, proposed development use and extent, and details of neighboring buildings. The guidelines outline the requirements for addressing each of the 10 Key Sustainable Building Categories and provide instructions for the design response, including assessment methods, benchmarks, and evidence of compliance.
What are the water efficiency requirements for the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA)?
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) includes requirements for water efficiency. These include installing appliances with high water efficiency ratings, connecting toilets to water tanks for flushing, locating water tanks to minimize noise, and capturing rainwater from the roof. The assessment also considers the area of roof draining to the rainwater tank and encourages water-efficient landscaping.
How does the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) address energy efficiency?
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) addresses energy efficiency in the proposed design. It encourages the use of thermal performance modeling to inform passive design and aims for a minimum 6.5-star energy rating for each dwelling. The assessment also considers separate metering for residential, communal, and non-residential spaces and requires compliance with energy efficiency benchmarks.
What are the requirements for stormwater management in the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA)?
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) includes requirements for stormwater management. It encourages the use of water-sensitive design principles and techniques to minimize stormwater runoff and capture and reuse stormwater on-site. The assessment also considers the inclusion of stormwater management features in architectural drawings and the submission of STORM (Stormwater Treatment Objective and Requirements Model) reports.
How does the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) address indoor environment quality?
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) addresses indoor environment quality in the proposed design. It encourages measures such as daylighting, ventilation, and thermal comfort. The assessment requires the provision of a building users guide to inform residents about the building’s ESD features and how they can save energy and costs.
What are the waste management requirements for the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA)?
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) includes waste management requirements. It encourages waste reduction during construction and aims for high levels of recycling and reuse. The assessment considers the implementation of waste management strategies outlined in relevant standards and guidelines, such as waste reduction for construction.
How does the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) address transport sustainability?
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) addresses transport sustainability in the proposed design. It encourages the provision of infrastructure for alternative transportation options, such as bike storage and car-sharing programs. The assessment also considers the proximity of the development to public transportation and amenities.
How does the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) promote urban ecology?
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) includes requirements for urban ecology. It encourages the inclusion of green spaces, biodiversity enhancements, and the use of native plants. The assessment aims to create sustainable and ecologically sensitive urban environments that support biodiversity and improve residents’ well-being.
Does the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) promote innovation in sustainable design?
Yes, the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) promotes innovation in sustainable design. It encourages the inclusion of innovative ESD items and design approaches that go beyond standard requirements. The assessment aims to foster creativity and the adoption of new sustainable design technologies and practices.
What are the materials sustainability requirements in the Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA)?
The Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA) addresses materials sustainability in the proposed design. It encourages the use of sustainable building materials, such as recycled or low-impact materials. The assessment also considers the environmental impact of the materials used and encourages responsible material sourcing and waste management practices.
Source Links
- https://www.darebin.vic.gov.au/-/media/Council/Files/Planning-and-building/Planning-and-development/Environmentally-sustainable-development/Non-residential-developments/Sustainable-Design-Assessment-Template-June-2021pdf.ashx
- https://www.darebin.vic.gov.au/-/media/Council/Files/About-Council/Councillors-and-meetings/Governance-and-transparency/Council-policies-and-strategies/EnvironmentallySustainableDesignESDBuildingPolicyMay2018pdf.ashx
- https://www.darebin.vic.gov.au/-/media/Council/Files/Planning-and-building/Planning-and-development/Environmentally-sustainable-development/SMP-report-template-for-applicants-June-2021pdf.ashx