Environmental Management Plan

In becoming the place of the people, it will be important that the Parliamentary Zone not only caters for the public but also reflects environmental values and demonstrates a commitment to creating a better environment.

To achieve this, a comprehensive Environmental Management Plan will be prepared to guide future development and asset management. This strategy will aim to:

• minimise energy use by encouraging the use of public transport and renewable energy sources
• promote ecologically responsive design throughout the Zone
• promote the use of landscape and building materials that are appropriate both to the environment and to the function they serve
• reduce waste and establish a comprehensive approach to waste management and recycling
• establish an optimal ‘water budget’ for the Zone through the use of drought-tolerant species, water storage and recycling, and limit the areas under irrigation

The associated site development guidelines will promote:

• use of microclimatic data to ensure good solar access, sun and wind protection and natural ventilation for buildings and public spaces
• materials and construction details that reduce energy use and obsolescence
• integrated design of public spaces and buildings
• design that ensures public spaces are safe and accessible
• landscape design that is suited to the harsh local conditions
• the rationalisation of building services into common easements

Memoranda of Understanding between the National Capital Authority and other Commonwealth agencies within the Zone will include:

• agreements on a comprehensive approach to waste reduction and management
• commitments to minimise energy use and purchase ‘green’ power
• campus master plans to rationalise parking, slow traffic, encourage alternative transport modes and establish a diversity of activities

A precinct approach will be undertaken for asset management services. Campus management service contracts in the Zone will stipulate:

• management objectives for each campus, to protect and enhance its symbolic significance
• agreed standards of quality and integrity to be maintained in each campus
• acceptable energy and water use budgets

The Australian Greenhouse Office have canvassed the purchase of ‘green’ power and the institution of a zone-wide contract for waste management and recycling.

An energy and water use audit will be the next step in formulating energy and water budgets for the place of the people.

With the pursuit of sustainable principles at the critical planning, implementation and maintenance stages for each project, the place of the people will demonstrate leadership in contemporary development and management.