The World Green Building Council (WorldGBC) has welcomed two non-profit organisations as new signatories to the Net Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment.
Launched in September at the momentous Global Climate Action Summit, the Commitment already holds 42 signatories, made up of 15 businesses and organisations, 22 cities, and five states and regions.
The newest additions to the Commitment include the Sydney Opera House and the Natural Resources Defense Council (a global environmental advocacy group), who last week pledged to ensure that all buildings they own, operate and develop are net zero carbon by 2030.
The Sydney Opera House is Australia’s number one tourist destination and the country’s busiest performing arts centre. Every year the building welcomes more than 8.2 million visitors and hosts 1,800 performances attended by 1.45 million people.
Through the commitment, the Sydney Opera House will reduce approximately 17, 580 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent across its entire floor area of 59,090 square metres by implementing energy efficiency measures and powering the building with renewable energy.
Emma Bombonato, Manager, Environmental Sustainability at Sydney Opera House said that as a symbol of modern Australia, the Sydney Opera House has an important responsibility to inspire change in the community.
“Achieving Carbon Neutral certification five years early makes reaching this important milestone incredibly meaningful. We are proud to be part of the Net Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment, and we look forward to being part of a community who continually work to lead by example for a sustainable future,” she shared.
Terri Wills, CEO of the WorldGBC said the WorldGBC is delighted to welcome Sydney Opera House and the Natural Resources Defense Council to be part of the Net Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment.
“Their leadership and pledge to take action will inspire and motivate more companies and organisations to join us in the challenge to reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions in the fight against climate change. Only by working together can a net zero emissions future become a reality if we all work together to overcome the challenges,” she commented.
More information on the World Green Building Council’s Net Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment can be found here.