Construction Magazine June 2017 | Page 11

GOING GREEN WORLDWIDE globally presents a number of logistical challenges ; however , a larger issue to contend with is the perception of net zero buildings , which is a challenge for most companies to engage with . With the historic focus on net zero energy in the industry , many companies now view the idea of utilising zero energy in a building to be impossible . However , what the WGBC aim to do is highlight that they are ultimately focussed on net zero carbon buildings which incorporate deep energy efficiency , with any remaining energy used originating from renewable sources . The organisation also commonly views challenges related to government policy , where there is an awareness of government apprehension from a national , state , provincial and city level . Wills explains : “ we ’ re trying to break down this misconception with certifications , and to say it ’ s being done around the world , and for governments to be emboldened to regulate and legislate on this .” Nonetheless , the issues around cost are also common challenges , with net zero buildings presently costing more than traditional builds . However , Wills adds , “ the more that green buildings are rolled out country by country , the cost premium comes down and the value of those properties goes up . We believe the same market trend will happen with net zero buildings , which will bring down costs .
Council independence Despite a collective goal within net zero buildings , individual green building councils still retain their independence

“ RIGHT NOW , ABOUT A THIRD OF

GLOBAL GREENHOUSE GAS ( GHG ) EMISSIONS COME FROM BUILDINGS . IF WE ’ RE GOING TO REDUCE EMISSIONS

TO KEEP US WITHIN TWO DEGREES , WE ’ VE GOT TO COMBAT THIS ”

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