Six stars for sustainable construction at USQ

The University of Southern Queensland’s flagship building at USQ Springfield has achieved a 6 Star Green Star rating for sustainable construction from the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA).

The $45 million ‘Building B’ was officially opened in August 2015 and supports innovative digitally connected learning environments. Boasting leading-edge facilities for film, television and radio, the 9000 m² building incorporates sustainable building materials and furniture, all the while maximising the provision of fresh air and natural light.

A sophisticated building management system oversees and controls electrical, lighting, metering and mechanical systems in Building B, minimising energy consumption. An eco-friendly air-conditioning system uses an air-cooled chiller, allowing minimal water usage. Water is also collected from the roof and greywater for flushing toilets and other non-potable use.

USQ Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Jan Thomas said the 6 Star Green Star – Education As Built v1 certification represents the university’s commitment to managing its social, environmental and economic footprint responsibly.

“We are delighted that Building B has received recognition as one of the first 6 Star Green Star buildings in our region,” Professor Thomas said.

“This is the highest rating that can be obtained and represents world leadership in environmentally sustainable building practices.

“Building B’s sustainable design has already delivered significant environmental savings across operational energy use and water consumption, which has significantly reduced the carbon footprint of the building and overall environmental impact.”

GBCA CEO Romilly Madew said the 6 Star Green Star rating was a rare and outstanding achievement — especially since Building B had already achieved a 5 Star Green Star rating for its design back in March 2015.

“Not satisfied, the team pushed the envelope further, and has gained a 6 Star Green Star rating at completed construction,” Madew said.

“This building is a bricks-and-mortar example of USQ’s dedication to sustainability, innovative thinking and leading-edge practice.”

The development’s project team included USQ, BADGE Constructions, Tracey Brunstrom & Hammond, Donald Cant Watts Corke and MODE Design.

Image caption: BADGE Constructions’ Toby Rice, USQ Associate Director Simon Pearl, USQ Executive Director of Campus Services Dr Dave Povey, GBCA Policy Advisor Adam Beck and Donald Cant Watts Corke’s Megan Whyte.