Since 2007 Green Roofs Australasia has (GRA) been the peak body for promoting the practice of greening the urban environment to enhance and improve sustainability of the natural environment. GRA has evolved from being an incorporated association to becoming a public company limited by guarantee on 29 May 2013.
Since 2009 GRA have provided educational workshops and performed advocacy roles within the professional and government sectors to promote awareness about the benefits to air quality; stormwater quality and the reduction of carbon emissions that this rapidly expanding industry provides.
As Founding Members of the World Green Infrastructure Network (WGIN), GRA has built strong industry relationships with the UK, Europe; USA; Canada and South America since 2008. Since 2009, Matthew Dillon has represented GRA as a WGIN Board Member at International Congresses in Mexico, USA, China, Scandinavia, Malaysia, Singapore and France, so the GRA network is extensive. Since 2010 Matthew has also established a strong relationship with the industry in China, Taiwan, Singapore, Japan, Malaysia, Vietnam, Europe, Middle East and Philippines to secure a stronger relationship within Asia, based on research sharing, best practice for the industry, policy direction and information on new technology. In 2014 Matthew accepted the role of Vice President for WGIN.
In the 21st Century humanity needs to overcome challenges of population growth, food production and the impacts of climate change in order to restore a sustainable balance with nature. GRA is of the belief that this is achievable; however, it will require innovative, informed and decisive government leadership and planning. Innovative revision of planning codes can promote collaborative, unified efforts from the disciplines of architecture, landscape design, urban planning, engineering, ecology, environmental management, botany, psychology and horticulture which can enhance and protect our environment and improve the quality of life for future generations. GRA believes that now is the time for a review on urban expansion codes and practice. What has worked in the past does not logically make it correct.
www.greenroofsaustralasia.com.au
