Almost a quarter of Australia's total greenhouse gas emissions can be attributed to buildings and their users, according to a new study.
The study, prepared by the Centre for International Economics (CIE), has shown that a nation-wide building energy efficiency program could offer a more effective way of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, particularly if it includes financial incentives and science-based targets.
The study was commissioned by the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC). This forum of industry, government and environment groups has brought together two unlikely allies: The Property Council of Australia (PCA) and the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF).
ACF Executive Director Don Henry said that greenhouse gas emissions from the building sector are a shared problem for industry and environment groups.
"But if we can build more efficient buildings there are real community benefits that will flow to the whole economy", Mr Henry said.
"The study shows a focus on energy savings in buildings would reduce the cost per tonne of abatement by 14 per cent and increase GDP by two per cent, or $38 billion, compared to more traditional approaches," said Property Council CEO, Peter Verwer.
"This research shows that energy use in buildings is almost a quarter, or 23 per cent, of Australia's total greenhouse gas emissions," said Mr Verwer.
"The Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council is an effective forum for some of the tough discussions government, industry and environment groups will need to have to find the solutions to climate change," said Mr Henry.
"There is huge potential to reduce energy use in the built environment by refurbishing Australia's existing building stock, however it won't happen without investment and an effective policy framework," said Mr Verwer.
"Green depreciation - where building owners demonstrate genuine, ongoing reductions in greenhouse gas emissions in return for faster write-offs for the heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems that help them achieve the cuts should be part of this," said Mr Verwer.
"A national energy efficiency program should include financial incentives, green depreciation and other measures, as part of an effective policy framework to tackle climate change," said Mr Verwer.
Other members of the ASBEC Climate Change Task Group include the Royal Australian Institute of Architects, Green Building Council of Australia, Planning Institute of Australia, Chartered Institute of Building Services Engineers and the Clean Energy Council.
