Page 104

“ACHIEVING A ZERO CARBON BUILT ENVIRONMENT BY 2050 WILL DELIVER A NUMBER OF POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC BENEFITS”Pictured: Terri WillsThe report outlines how through concerted action by three major influencing parties – businesses, governments, and non-governmental organisations – we can collectively propel the world to 100 per cent net zero carbon buildings.For businesses, whether investors; building developers, owners and managers; or businesses that are building tenants, the ask is clear: invest in, build and occupy net zero buildings. The rationale for action is compelling. Higher return on investment through higher property values for investors, reduced operating costs for developers and owners, and lower tenant turnover through healthier, more productive workers for business tenants. Lendlease’s Barangaroo development in Sydney, Australia, is proof of this concept. Through energy efficiency, and on-site and off-site solar power, it operates at carbon neutral and has strong sales, commands higher rents and has resulted in increased asset value. Governments – both national and ‘sub-national’ (that is regional and city-level) – also have a key role to play. We encourage all national Governments to sign and ratify the Paris Agreement, and for both national and sub-national governments to develop regulations within their powers, including plans, incentives and strategies, that will ultimately ensure that all buildings operate at net zero carbon by 2050. Credit: Lendlease104 SMART CITIES