Sustainability Learning Centre awarded 6 Green Star energy rating

The Sustainability Learning Centre at Mt Nelson in Hobart has officially become Tasmania’s first 6 Green Star commercial building.

The learning centre, situated amongst 65 hectares of threatened bushland adjacent to prominent reserves near the Hobart College, was jointly developed by the state government, Greening Australia, Catholic Education Office and Independent Schools Tasmania.

Greening Australia’s national CEO, Brendan Foran said achieving the 6 Green Star energy rating acknowledges and celebrates moving toward more sustainable ways of working and the way we conduct our education, community and business activities.

“The receipt of a Six Green Star energy rating for this facility recognises not only the design, construction and materials used, but more importantly our approach to sustainability generally, and the actions and behaviours we undertake on a daily basis.

“Greening Australia is like most businesses, we are looking at ways to keep our operating costs under control so we can do what we do best. This building generates so much electricity it is revenue positive, it provides a case study into how commercial buildings can enhance a business’s bottom line.

“The building includes active and passive solar technology, low carbon footings and extensive use of recycled materials.

“At Greening Australia we are passionate about addressing some of the world’s most pressing sustainability problems, from taking action to halt loss of biodiversity and reducing the impacts of climate change, to better equipping young people and the community to meet these challenges through our education and community engagement programs.” Mr Foran said.

Greening Australia invested more than half a million dollars cash toward the Centre’s construction, much of which was generously given by private donations.