Planning and design
The greatest potential for improving the sustainability performance of the campus is in the planning, delivery and operation of new buildings.
By focusing on the planning and design of new developments, we can imagine and then create a sustainable campus that is exemplary in both Australia and the wider world.
Planning and Design at UTS will consider the developing campus in relation to:
- the quality of spaces and places
- our educational precinct and neighbouring developments
- access, equity and diversity
- culture and recreation
What do we want to achieve?
All new buildings at UTS will have the aspirational target of Six Star on the Green Building Council of Australia's pilot rating tool for educational buildings. Buildings rated at this standard are defined as 'World Leader'.
Also, aiming for six green stars is consistent with the goals of other sustainability projects occurring in Sydney, such as Sustainable Sydney 2030 (opens an external site) and the Frasers Broadway project (opens an external site).
How are we performing?
The green-star ratings for existing buildings on the UTS city campus are likely to vary from two green stars up to four green stars (or 'best practice') due to their age.
Implementing sustainable practices in our existing buildings is on the agenda for 2008.
What will be the benefits?
Adopting our target of six green stars for all new campus developments will:
- demonstrate UTS's commitment to sustainable practices
- enhance UTS's reputation as a socially responsible leader, both locally and internationally
- lower life cycle, operating and maintenance costs
- reduce the risk of obsolescence and optimise the value of our property
- contribute to knowledge about the procurement and operation of sustainable buildings.
What are we doing?
- reviewing the UTS Design Guidelines - adding in our aspirational target of reaching 6 green stars for all new buildings.
- considering green precinct initiatives
- implementing green building practices in current projects.
What guides this theme?
UTS Design Guidelines (PDF, 2.8MB, 141 pages): These guidelines were first published in 1997. In 2000, sustainability guidelines were added. In 2005, these strategies were revised.
Green Star (opens an external site): an environmental rating system for buildings. This document is written by the Green Building Council of Australia - an organisation 'committed to developing a sustainable property industry for Australia by encouraging the adoption of green building practices'.
