How Building Owners Can Prepare for the Australian Public Service Net Zero Emissions Strategy

The Australian Government’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions within the Australian Public Service (APS) by 2030 sets a precedent for environmental control and sustainable operations. 

Following the Australian Government’s document release last year on the APS Net Zero Emissions by 2030 strategy, building owners face a transformative period ahead.

This initiative is part of Australia’s broader efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainability across various sectors in alignment with a Net Zero 2050 Commitment. For building owners, this shift calls for significant changes in building management, energy efficiency standards, and reporting practices.

What Is the APS Net Zero Emissions by 2030 Target? 

The APS Net Zero Emissions by 2030 target is a comprehensive approach to reduce scope 1, 2 and 3 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across non-corporate Commonwealth entities. The target includes direct emissions from owned or controlled sources (scope 1), indirect emissions resulting from the generation of purchased energy (scope 2), and extends to all other indirect emissions within the organisation’s value chain (scope 3), such as those associated with electric vehicle (EV) charging stations and construction activities. 

Implications for Building Owners

For asset owners, the APS Net Zero Emissions by 2030 target includes a broad approach that encompasses not only building efficiency and NABERS ratings but also electrification, electric vehicle infrastructure (electrification of operations and integrating EV charging infrastructure to support a transition to electric vehicles), procurement policies, and transparency in carbon footprint disclosure across the supply chain. This indicates a comprehensive strategy aimed at achieving net zero emissions through various operational and supply chain modifications. 

Here are some strategic actions building owners can take in alignment with this initiative:

Energy Efficiency Improvements: Upgrade infrastructure to enhance energy efficiency. Modernising HVAC systems, lighting, and insulation will be critical in reducing energy consumption.

Renewable Energy Integration: Adopt renewable energy solutions, such as solar panels, to cut down on fossil fuel reliance. This move not only aids decarbonisation but also assists energy performance assessments.

Water Usage Optimisation: Implement water-saving technologies and rainwater harvesting to minimise water usage, an essential step for sustainable water resource management.

Waste Management and Recycling: Initiate robust waste reduction and recycling strategies to decrease waste production and promote recycling, aligning with sustainability objectives.

Sustainable Procurement: Opt for environmentally friendly materials and services for building operations and upkeep, supporting the APS’s sustainability goals and potentially enhancing building sustainability ratings.

Continuous Monitoring and Improvement: Regular monitoring of energy and water consumption, waste production, and indoor environmental quality is vital. This ongoing evaluation and enhancement process is crucial for maintaining high environmental performance and sustainability levels.

Stay Updated on Sustainability Initiatives: Stay informed about government policies, incentives, and support programs related to sustainability and energy efficiency.

Conclusion

The APS Net Zero Emissions by 2030 target is a significant step towards sustainability in government operations. Building owners are urged to go beyond improving energy efficiency and adopt a range of decarbonisation strategies such as electrification, renewable energy, and sustainable procurement. This comprehensive approach meets government standards and contributes to Australia’s climate objectives. By embracing these strategies, building owners can lead in the transition to net-zero emissions, showcasing their commitment to environmental stewardship and excellence.

 

Take the Next Step Towards Net Zero with Conservia

At Conservia, we engage closely and collaboratively with our clients to deliver cost-effective sustainability solutions that seamlessly integrate with your building’s operations. Specialising in Zero Capex projects, we enable significant energy-saving initiatives without the need for upfront investment, ensuring enhanced energy efficiency and greater tenant satisfaction without disrupting base building operations.