Sustainability
Sustainability Policy
OUR MISSION
The Village Building Co. aims to:
- To be a socially responsible property developer and employer
- To create sustainable, well-designed, affordable and flexible developments to meet the needs both during construction and in the total lifespan of the development of current and future occupants
- To reduce carbon emissions and overall environmental footprint
- To consider the needs and environmental expectations and work in partnership with the community and others in all our areas of operation
- To ensure sustainability practices provide added value and a return on investment to shareholders
ENERGY
Target Australian Best Practice for energy ratings in all new dwellings.
WATER USE
Target a minimum of 40% reduction of mains water in all new developments (compared to pre-2003 water usage levels).
WASTE MANAGEMENT
Target 100% recycling on all building sites and in our offices.
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
To provide affordable housing in all areas of operations; provide safe working environments for all employees and subcontractors, and to provide ongoing solutions for our end users to continue sustainable practices after the development cycle is complete.
Case Study- Edgewood
The Edgewood estate was a clay quarry and brick making operation. The site was highly environmentally degraded after 100 years of brick making. The Village Building Co. has recycled 25,000 tonnes of old material to date, eliminating the need for the introduction of substantial new materials to the site and eliminating the need to remove old materials for dumping. The Company is restoring creeks, creating frog breeding ponds for endangered species and reducing downstream storm water run-off problems. This work has produced extensive landscaped recreational areas.
Edgewood's Frog Habitat
A four-year study that began in 1998, found Green and Golden Bell Frogs living adjacent to a pond in a disused quarry in the estate. Initially, two frogs were found.
We have worked closely with the National Parks and Wildlife Service to establish a permanent and viable frog colony at Edgewood and we are greatly encouraged by signs that the frog habitat and breeding, is well ahead of schedule.
Well over 4,000 tadpoles of the endangered species have already bred in the specially constructed breeding ponds surrounded by the lower escarpment overlooking Edgewood.