Categories: Processes and Tools Sectors: Owners, Developers, Designers
The Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC) climate change task group has launched a 10 point framework for preparedness in the built environment against extreme weather and climate change.
The ASBEC climate change task group says a policy framework is necessary to support owners, managers and inhabitants in implementing climate-resilient buildings.
“We will be able to minimise the adverse impacts experienced during extreme weather events - including death, displacement, mental distress and disruption to economic and other services,” ASBEC president Tom Roper says.
“Suburbs and buildings are still being designed and created based on past climatic experience when we should be thinking of how they will respond to future climatic events, so we can be resilient in 20, 30, 40 years down the track,” Roper says.
The framework recommends a review of existing climate change regulation, regular reviews of the National Construction Code of Australia and the adoption of climate change adaptation strategies within planning frameworks.
The framework argues for the creation of a National Built Environment Adaptation Council, which would comprise industry and government representatives. This body would facilitate research, consult, review and assess climate impact on the built environment.
It also calls for the development of financial incentives for adaptation retrofits, resilience assessments and a buy-back program for vulnerable properties in high-risk areas.
The framework’s 10 points:
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Engage with industry
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Lead by example
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Sponsor applied research
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Provide better access to information and tools
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Invest in education
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Provide incentives
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Reform and improve regulation
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Review building codes and standards
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Improve planning systems and outcomes
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Improve insurance and financial services
For more information, go to www.asbec.com.au
