Low carbon stories
Scientists warn the world could breach 1.5C as soon as 2030, raising flood, drought and sea level risks unless emissions fall sharply.
Residents and developers could face tighter rules as Sydney commits to net zero carbon buildings by 2050 and new builds by 2030.
Lower vacancy rates in Auckland and Wellington are boosting landlords' returns, with Green Star office buildings drawing tenants more quickly than the wider market.
Nearly 70 per cent complete, Brisbane’s 45-metre 25 King office tower has drawn fresh investor interest as Impact Investment Group seeks co-investors.
The conference aims to help New Zealand build a low-carbon economy and create jobs, as it eyes net zero by 2050.
New Zealand’s emissions rose 20% from 1990 to 2016, underscoring the difficulty of meeting its 2030 climate target.
New Zealand’s transport emissions could fall sharply if biofuels are developed locally, but only with policy support and investment.
Polls show climate policy is now central to voters, with every major party except New Zealand First facing science questions on emissions.
A shift to wind, water and solar could cut air pollution deaths, create millions of jobs and save trillions in health costs by 2050.
Mass timber is gaining traction because it can match concrete on strength while cutting build times, waste and carbon emissions.
Scientists warn the changes could depress carbon prices, deter low-emission investment and leave New Zealand's ETS uncertain for years.
Architects are increasingly choosing engineered wood as it can cut costs, speed builds and improve occupant satisfaction in commercial projects.
The revised standard aims to speed approvals for volume builders while reducing compliance costs and lifting the quality of new homes.
Timber is giving Australian builders a cost and speed edge as a Rotorua conference spotlights its growing use in commercial construction.
More homebuyers are seeking healthier, more efficient houses, with Homestar registrations rising tenfold in three years to 6,700.
The Brisbane tower’s timber frame is expected to cut carbon emissions and set a new benchmark for large-scale office developments.
Environmental and tourism groups say Labour must spell out tougher limits and funding if it is to halt the decline in rivers and lakes.
For buyers, the result signals lower running costs and healthier living, as the house earns New Zealand’s first perfect Homestar version 3 rating.
Consumers could soon see fully renewable water bottles as Danone, Nestle Waters and Origin Materials race to commercial scale.
Motu warns uncertain carbon pricing is delaying investment and slowing emissions cuts, and says a redesign could avoid billions in future costs.
