Chemistry Australia has announced the formation of the Australian Modern Building Alliance (AMBA), to promote the benefits of polymers in the Australian construction industry.
Polymers form the basis of many construction materials that are integral to modern buildings, such as foams, paints, sealants, rubbers and plastics.
Polymer-based construction materials are a key part of a sustainable, energy-efficient solution because they have a range of advantages over alternative materials for meeting energy efficiency requirements. These materials are durable, easy to install, weather-resistant (less prone to corrosion) and high performing.
While building materials generally last 30 to 50 years, polymer-based materials such as PVC pipes can last longer. This removes the need for replacement products – conserving resources and reducing waste.
Moreover, polymer-based construction materials are also diverse and can be used in numerous applications, including window frames and piping, flooring, and state-of-the-art insulation that protects from cold and heat.
The AMBA aims to engage with construction industry stakeholders and regulators to increase awareness of polymers as a safe and sustainable solution to improve the energy efficiency of Australia’s built environment, which will be critical in Australia’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
AMBA Chair, Craig Lovel, said constructing and renovating buildings with sustainability and energy efficiency in mind is vital – particularly at a time when Australia’s energy costs and demands are increasing.
“In Australia, our buildings account for 19 per cent of the total energy used and 18 per cent of our total direct GHG emissions,” he said.
“AMBA will shine a light on polymer-based construction products’ ability to reduce the carbon footprint and environmental impact of our buildings,” Mr Lovel commented.
“This allows us to deliver safe, sustainable and energy-efficient modern buildings as a key part of Australia’s transition to a low-carbon economy.”
The AMBA officially marked its formation with participation in the 2019 Energy Efficiency Expo at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre on Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24 October 2019.
It has also recently launched a new website to inform stakeholders about the safe and sustainable use of polymers in Australia.
The website will host technical materials on a range of subjects such as polyurethanes in building insulation alongside news and views from the industry.
The website URL is www.australianmodernbuildingalliance.org.au.