The Property Council of Australia has welcomed today’s decision from the NSW Government to commit to cutting emissions in half by 2030 as the world continues to decarbonise.
Property Council Executive Director Luke Achterstraat said buildings accounted for over 50 percent of Australia’s electricity use and almost a quarter of its emissions.
“Australia’s leading property companies continue to top international sustainability benchmarks, and through the Property Council’s advocacy campaign we are supporting broader industry to step up to this challenge,” he said.
“We recognise that the right policy settings can help our buildings achieve their full potential with consistency and efficacy. This announcement is a positive step that builds on the great work of the NSW Government, in particular Minister Matt Kean, on sustainability.”
Mr Achterstraat said the property industry leads the nation in investment in Environmental, Social, and Governance – ESG.
“International capital is now demanding a commitment from corporations right through to the top board and executive representatives on ESG. This international demand has been a driving factor in the property industry making green decisions well ahead of the political appetite,” he said.
“Property Council shares the values of driving sustainability outcomes and is proud of the achievements our members have made not in a race to Net Zero by 2050, but for many members able to achieve Net Zero now or in the near future through demonstrating leadership and sustainable innovation for Sydney’s commercial and public buildings.
“The property industry also stands ready to work with government to ensure our buildings play their part in the electric vehicle infrastructure so electric vehicles can access charging points in shopping centres, apartment buildings, office buildings and carparks across the state.
“With the right policy frameworks in place, we can minimise the costs of transition, create economic opportunities across all parts of industry.”
