Builders challenged in QLD

Queensland's Environment Minister Desley Boyle has challenged builders in Far North Queensland to design sustainable housing developments which save water and energy.

Ms Boyle, also Member for Cairns, addressed the first Australian Green Development Forum via DVD recording today while in Brisbane for State Parliament. She said developers needed to design housing best suited to the climate.

"I am asking developers to think about stormwater reuse for landscaping, the use of greywater, hot water systems that use the least energy and to look more closely at a building design which is cool and suited for the tropics," Ms Boyle said.

She said a report from the Australian Greenhouse Office showed the costs of providing ceiling, wall and roof insulation, glazing and passive design, was only 1.7 per cent of the total building cost, and an affordable and more environmentally-friendly option to air-conditioning.

"Not only can environmentally-friendly designs benefit the environment, they can also be cost effective. I urge the industry sector to take up the challenge to develop innovative ways of improving energy and water efficiencies in our homes," Ms Boyle said.

From March 1, all new homes in Queensland will be required to include sustainable features to save water and energy including: a greenhouse efficient hot water system, AAA-rated shower rose, dual flush toilets, water pressure limiting devices and energy efficient lighting.

"We all need to start thinking about how we can reduce our greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to climate change, which will put pressure on our future resources," Ms Boyle said.

She said the Queensland Government was committed to working with industry and the community to accelerate the adoption of sustainable development in Far North Queensland and across the state.

The forum provided developers with an opportunity to hear from sustainable design expert, United States Urban Strategist Gary Lawrence, and AGDF President Jim McKnoulty.

"AGDF's goal is to engage the development industry to accelerate the development of sustainable community as well as linking the expertise of industry bodies and groups to achieve this common goal," Mr McKnoulty said.