ShareNew decarbonisation roadmap to transform built environment
Two Australian Institute of Architects professionals, early adopters of technology, who are key to driving a low-carbon future for Australian architecture.
The Australian Architecture Conference recently in Sydney saw the launch of the Architecture Industry Decarbonisation Plan 2025–2050 in a dynamic session featuring Caroline Pidcock LFRAIA and Stefan Preuss, Co-chairs of the National Climate Action and Sustainability Committee (NCASC), alongside Raphaela Rose, Campbell McNeill (ahha), Alexandra Morrison (Wardle), and Talina Edwards (Envirotecture).
Developed by the Australian Institute of Architects (the Institute), the Decarbonisation Plan outlines how architects can lead a collaborative path to achieving net-zero emissions across the built environment.
With significant investment in skills promised during the election, the plan urges immediate government action to help develop the capabilities of design.
Caroline Pidcock LFRAIA and Stefan Preuss, Co-Chairs of the NCASC, say the plan represents a critical turning point for the industry.
“This is a moment of responsibility and opportunity. The building and construction sector accounts for over one-quarter of Australia’s carbon emissions. With the right leadership, design, and regulation, we can bring that to zero, and create better, healthier places in the process,” Preuss says.
The plan advocates for government leadership through green procurement, progressive updates to the National Construction Code, and prioritisation of circular economy principles.
It also urges a greater emphasis on embodied carbon reduction, material reuse, and climate-responsive design in both new construction and retrofit projects.
Pidcock emphasises that collaboration between industry and government is vital.
“We’re calling on all levels of government to work with architects, engineers, and planners to future-proof our cities and buildings,” she says.
“We need stronger national policy that supports innovation, upskills the workforce, and embeds sustainability at every stage of the built environment lifecycle.”
The Decarbonisation Plan builds on existing climate strategies, aligning with national and international targets to deliver resilient, zero-carbon buildings by 2050.
It outlines nine strategic recommendations, including mandatory whole-of-life carbon assessments, incentives for adaptive reuse, and integration of sustainability training into education and professional development.
“This is not just about reducing emissions, it’s about improving lives,” says Pidcock.
“A decarbonised built environment is healthier, more efficient, and more equitable. The roadmap we’ve launched gives us a realistic and responsible way forward, that will inspire architects, clients and team members.”
Read the full Architecture Industry Decarbonisation Plan 2025–2050.
Image: wosunan / Envato
