Towards zero carbon: time to change the National Construction Code

Buildings are one of the biggest sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, accounting for over half of total city emissions on average, and a significant source of air pollution. Currently, half a million people die each year due to outdoor air pollution caused by energy used in buildings.

This study compares and contrasts Australian and global best practices in policy and regulation for the energy and carbon performance of the built environment. It examines the drivers and opportunities for, and barriers to, the adoption of best practices in Australia.

Cities and states are always looking for ways to more efficiently and effectively deliver public services, such as flood management, resource conservation, pollution prevention, social equity and human health.

This report illustrates that adjusting building standards to impact the cities' environment, economy and etc. The standards mentioned here starts from the construction process until the entire lifecycle of the building in Chinese cities. Research support that buildings that are both energy efficient and supplied by clean energy is fundamental in securing a climate-safe future.