| When should a development project register? |  |
In principle, a developer may apply for EnviroDevelopment certification as soon as they are able to demonstrate with a high level of certainly that the development will reliably meet the EnviroDevelopment requirements.
It is envisaged that the submission for certification will be generally submitted at the same stage as Development Approval or Building Approval, depending on the type of development, is sought or as soon as evidence is available offering certainty of achievement of EnviroDevelopment standards.
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| How long does certification take? | |
It is expected that EnviroDevelopment applications will be processed within 6-8 weeks of receipt of all documentation and supporting information.
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| How is EnviroDevelopment different from other sustainability tools? | |
EnviroDevelopment encompasses a broad spectrum of environmental and community sustainability issues relevant to development. It encompasses factors that are determined at the conceptual stages of a development through to fit-out stages. This innovative scheme has been designed and created specially for the development industry to increase the uptake of sustainability in development and to mainstream more sustainable development, beyond display projects. It is designed to harness the enthusiasm of industry, government and the community and to inspire higher achievement than would be achieved under regulation, whilst maintaining opportunities for flexibility and innovation.
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| Where can I get more advice on EnviroDevelopment? | |
For further advice concerning EnviroDevelopment, please contact Kirsty Chessher, Urban Development Institute of Australia (Queensland) on (07) 3229 1589.
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| What kind of evidence do I need to submit for EnviroDevelopment certification? | |
Applicants are required to submit evidence for each of the EnviroDevelopment standards they wish to apply for. Required items are outlined in the downloadable standards documents, particularly in the right hand column of the requirements table for each element in the technical standards.
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| How will EnviroDevelopment be monitored and reviewed? | |
EnviroDevelopment standards will be reviewed annually or alternatively on an as-needs basis.
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| What sort of information should be saved to prove that my EnviroDevelopment commitments have been met? | |
Some EnviroDevelopment requirements involve the purchase and correct installation of building elements and materials. It is important to ensure that all receipts and certificates of installation are kept for the certifier to review during inspections.
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| Why would a Local Government be interested in EnviroDevelopment? | |
It is anticipated that local governments will be able to rapidly assess the likely benefits of a development application relating to an EnviroDevelopment project. There are also benefits to local authorities in terms of more efficient use of resources, more attractive and sustainable urban areas, benefits to the local environment and reduced infrastructure costs. Where local government (or other suppliers or regulators) can see such benefits, these EnviroDevelopment partners may be willing to provide incentives such as reduced infrastructure changes, increased densities or ensuring that the application is processed efficiently.
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| What does an EnviroDevelopment certification mean to homebuyers? | |
Homebuyers will be clearly able to determine which of the EnviroDevelopment elements a particular development excelled in. For example, a particular development may be awarded recognition for its performance in terms of water, energy and ecosystems, or any combination of the 6 elements if it meets the standards set by EnviroDevelopment for the particular elements.
Purchasers of EnviroDevelopments will also have the benefit of any reduced operating costs, or enhanced liveability and lifestyle benefits. Homebuyers of EnviroDevelopments will also have peace of mind knowing that they have made a responsible environmental choice. Purchasers may have a self-sufficient energy or water supply, improved access to local facilities and access to ‘green loans’ and rebates.
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