The Australian Institute of Architects has responded to the 2024 State of the Climate Report, calling for urgent action to reduce emissions and improve the resilience of Australia’s built environment.
The report, released by CSIRO and the Bureau of Meteorology, warns of escalating risks from heatwaves, storms, and rising sea levels, despite a decline in emissions over the past 15 years.
Jane Cassidy, President of the Australian Institute of Architects, said the built environment, which accounts for one-third of global emissions, offers both a significant opportunity and a critical responsibility in tackling the climate crisis.
“Architects’ influence extends across clients’ building projects and the entire supply chain of building materials and fittings, making them essential leaders in the journey toward zero-carbon buildings and industry-wide decarbonisation,” she said.
Cassidy cited the Institute’s Architecture Industry Decarbonisation Plan 2025-2050, released in October, which provides a clear roadmap for achieving net-zero emissions. The plan calls for stronger building regulations, green government procurement, and investment in skills and tools to support sustainable outcomes.
Cassidy stated that high-performing buildings are urgently needed and achievable today.
“Key factors like building insulation, window design, shading, solar orientation, ventilation, and carbon life cycle planning are now standard in contemporary architecture,” she said.
“Buildings designed for durability and resilience, and that reduce reliance on gas for heating, hot water, and cooking, are critical to reducing emissions and improving community safety — these buildings also offer resilience to extreme weather and improve health and wellbeing.”
Cassidy added that adaptive reuse, where old buildings are reused and modified for another purpose, is equally vital, reducing waste and keeping carbon stored in existing buildings.
“The State of the Climate Report shows that the stakes are higher than ever,” she said. “Reducing the need for carbon offsets starts with smarter building design, more durable materials, and a focus on sufficiency.”
Cassidy called on the government for stronger support for low-carbon building materials and innovative upfront design that reduce emissions throughout construction and operation.
“Our response must move beyond promises to deliver transparent, accountable, and decisive action, ensuring every initiative drives a sustainable, zero-carbon future.”
