Growing interest in sustainable materials
The embodied impacts of building materials used in construction are under the spotlight. As the focus turns to reducing carbon emissions, there is an impetus to consider the sustainability of materials used.
Low carbon
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Steel’s role in Aotearoa’s future
By Dr Troy Coyle – 1 April 2022, Build 189, Feature article
Building materials will need to meet stringent low-carbon criteria as governments globally strive to meet climate change targets. The steel industry is bringing in a raft of measures and emphasising steel’s role in the circular economy.
Rules of thumb to cut carbon – part 2
By Dr Dave Dowdell – 1 August 2022, Build 191
We finish this 2-part series looking at the rest of the BRANZ modelling study used to develop six rules of thumb that will help designers deliver lower-carbon houses.
Towards a high-performance future
By Nicki Frances – 1 August 2021, Build 185, Feature article
As we move further into the 21st century, we face two interconnected challenges for our sector – improving building performance to create healthier indoor conditions while also finding ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
A journey begins with one step
By Chelydra Percy – 1 October 2021, Build 186
BRANZ CEO Chelydra Percy says that, while the building industry faces a huge challenge in reducing its impact on the environment, there are several steps businesses can take to start making changes now.
Design smarter for cost-neutral, low-carbon homes
By Jeff Vickers – 1 October 2022, Build 192
MBIE-backed research finds low-carbon buildings can be built at no additional cost if clever design choices are made.
Designing for the climate
By Greg Burn – 1 February 2022, Build 188, Feature article
Dramatically reducing the carbon footprint of residential new builds presents significant challenges for architects, designers and the entire industry. Revisiting basic design principles is one tool that will be useful.
High-performance domestic walls
By David Hindley – 1 February 2021, Build 182
Wall design will play a key role in the improved thermal performance of new houses as we move toward net-zero carbon construction. One recent research project found problems with current wall construction, but another developed high-performance details that take us a leap ahead.
Pathway to net-zero carbon design
By David Hindley – 1 February 2021, Build 182, Feature article
Jasmax, one of New Zealand’s oldest architecture practices, is moving to tackle climate issues with the launch of a staged roadmap to designing net-zero carbon buildings by 2030.
BRANZ carbon foot-printing tools
By Jarred Butler – 1 August 2021, Build 185, Feature article
Carbon-footprinting tools developed by BRANZ will help designers and architects – and ultimately New Zealand – meet net-zero carbon targets.
