New Zealand urged to go net zero

The CEO of building technology company NUDURA, Murray Snider, will visit New Zealand next month to discuss the topic of energy-efficient building. Snider has a wealth of experience in building environmentally friendly homes and commercial buildings which are net zero.

A net-zero energy (NZE) building relies on renewable sources to produce as much energy as it uses, usually as measured over the course of a year. Net-zero standard involves focus on technologies such as natural daylighting, efficient lamps, efficient heating and ventilation, plus insulated concrete form walls with high heat retention. 

“While there are some great examples of Kiwi home owners and building companies actively pursuing the result of an energy-efficient home, for most people this isn’t something they immediately think of,” said Snider.

“Many perceive energy-efficient homes to be impractical, the work of ‘greenies’ or too expensive; that’s simply not true.

“Building homes that are energy efficient are as cost effective as other building methods, safer and healthier for our families, while also protecting our environment for future generations.

“If you put in a little bit of effort into the type of heating and cooling and size the units properly, you will find that you can get up to 70% savings.”

Snider said that overseas, the consumer is leading the charge towards net zero and more government and industry players are suggesting net zero as a viable option when it comes to creating commercial and state-owned buildings. Snider himself was involved with the development of the first net-zero school in the US, Richardsville Elementary School.

Richardsville Elementary School was built using NUDURA sustainable and efficient building materials.

“Canada, the UK, Ireland and the US have really embraced the idea of energy-efficient homes and there are many examples these days of well-designed buildings that are cheaper to run and cost effective to build,” he said.

“All residential and commercial property owners’ - including central and local government departments - decisions can contribute to radically reducing CO₂ emissions whilst helping decrease reliance on limited resources such as gas, oil and coal.”

Snider said New Zealand’s clean, green image doesn’t extend to the construction industry, particularly around building energy-efficiency standards. When he visits Queenstown and Christchurch next month, he will meet with central and local government officials, together with building industry leaders and key participants.

“I’d like to bring together representatives of the different sectors involved in the construction industry to learn, discuss and take action to bring about the overdue change in New Zealand’s way of building,” he said.

“The long-term effect of net zero is healthier, affordable, sustainable, quality, durable and enhanced living standards, which ultimately reduces the financial burden on the government.”