PHOTO: Fletcher Living CEO Steve Evans. SUPPLIED
Fletcher Living announces a groundbreaking achievement in sustainability: a residence designed to emit seven times less carbon over its lifespan compared to a typical New Zealand home. This environmentally conscious dwelling has garnered the highest possible rating for eco-friendliness in residential architecture. However, it comes with a higher initial cost.
In a recent interview with Newshub’s Chris Meehan and Ryan Bridge, Fletcher Living CEO Steve Evans explained that the objective was to create a home that aligns with the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius or less. The construction process involved innovative techniques, including off-site assembly of walls and roof, culminating in a single-day watertight installation. Notable features include an eco-concrete driveway, solar power, recycled water systems, and the integration of low-water-consuming wildflowers into the landscaping.
Every aspect of the design aims to not only slash energy bills but also minimize “embodied carbon” – the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing building materials such as concrete, steel, and wood. Andrew Eagles from the Green Building Council elaborated on this concept, underscoring the significance of reducing emissions at every stage of construction.
While the eco-home has earned accolades for its sustainability, it currently commands a 25 percent premium over conventional homes. However, Fletcher Living anticipates that economies of scale through mass production could narrow this gap. Despite the upfront cost, Evans emphasizes the long-term financial benefits and environmental impact, stressing the importance of prioritizing sustainability in housing choices.
In New Zealand, the built environment is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, prompting calls for more sustainable practices and consumer awareness. Suggestions such as implementing energy performance certificates akin to nutritional labels on food or energy ratings on appliances have been put forward to guide consumer decisions.
Additionally, there’s a push for New Zealand to join other nations in signing an international declaration aimed at decarbonizing the global building sector. Minister of Building and Construction Chris Penk expressed the government’s commitment to promoting replicable, cost-effective, and timely construction methods without compromising quality.
Fletcher Living has taken a proactive approach by making its eco-home plans publicly available, inviting collaboration from other builders to collectively reduce New Zealand’s carbon footprint. By fostering innovation and collaboration, the industry can strive towards a more sustainable future for housing in the country.
SOURCE: NEWSHUB