DRIVING Sustainability in Construction
The Australian construction industry stands at a pivotal moment in its sustainability journey. As climate change and urbanization demand greener practices, public awareness has surged. Australians increasingly value sustainable homes and communities, driving demand for eco-friendly designs and materials. However, while visible features like solar panels gain attention, less apparent measures such as low-carbon materials and advanced insulation remain undervalued. Bridging this gap is essential to achieving Australia’s environmental goals.
Shifting Focus to Embodied Carbon
Traditionally, sustainability in construction has centered on operational energy efficiency, but the focus is shifting toward embodied carbon—the carbon footprint embedded in building materials. Australia is catching up with European trends, where lifecycle analysis and material reuse are already widely adopted.
The built environment contributes approximately 25% of Australia’s annual carbon emissions. Of this, embodied carbon—stemming from materials like concrete and steel—is a significant driver. For example, cement production emitted 4.7 million tonnes of CO2 in 2020-21, with process emissions accounting for 60% (CSIRO). Recognizing this, the industry must reduce embodied carbon emissions by 31-36% by 2030 to align with the Paris Agreement’s Science Based Targets (Slattery analysis).
Insights from the 2024 Sentiment Survey
The 2024 Sentiment Survey highlighted growing adoption of sustainable practices across the construction sector. Among surveyed stakeholders, 68% cited energy efficiency as a priority, while 39% emphasized using materials manufactured sustainably or from recycled sources—a notable jump from 26% in 2023 to 44% in 2024 among developers. This upward trend reflects increasing commitment to sustainable sourcing and responsible construction.
At Safetyline Jalousie, we are proud to align with these goals through innovative product development. Our louvre systems, made with Hydro REDUXA and Hydro CIRCAL, showcase the benefits of low-carbon and recycled aluminum. Hydro CIRCAL 75R, for instance, contains at least 75% post-consumer aluminum scrap and requires only 5% of the energy needed to produce primary aluminum. With CO2 emissions as low as 2.3kg per kilogram of aluminum, this material represents the lowest-carbon option available in the market.
By integrating Hydro REDUXA and Hydro CIRCAL into our products, we not only reduce embodied carbon but also lead the charge in sustainable manufacturing. These innovations support Australia’s broader goals of reducing emissions while maintaining high performance.
Challenges and Opportunities
The journey toward sustainability is not without obstacles. Rising material costs, project delays, and financial pressures can sideline long-term environmental objectives. Moreover, rigid regulatory frameworks and short-term profit motives often hinder the adoption of innovative green practices.
Nevertheless, there are encouraging signs of progress. Architects reported a rise in using sustainable materials, from 36% in 2023 to 41% in 2024. Early adopters of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) initiatives, such as climate action and eliminating modern slavery, are reaping benefits, including higher asset values and competitive financing. Businesses that prioritize sustainability not only align with evolving buyer expectations but also position themselves as leaders in a rapidly transforming industry.
Innovation at Safetyline Jalousie
At Safetyline Jalousie, we integrate sustainability into every facet of our operations. Beyond materials, our SmartAir system exemplifies how advanced sensor technology can reduce reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems, improving energy efficiency and indoor air quality. These innovations make our louvre systems ideal for both high-performance buildings and passive design strategies.
We also encourage suppliers and manufacturers to embrace sustainability through initiatives like Suppliers Declare, a global sustainability movement. Suppliers Declare raises awareness of the urgent need for climate action among manufacturers, suppliers, and the companies they serve. It strives to achieve zero carbon emissions, aligning with Australia’s net-zero by 2050 target, by promoting sustainable practices across the supply chain.
For architects and designers seeking transparency about sustainability information without the risk of greenwashing, ProductAware offers a valuable open-source database. This platform aims to standardize how sustainability questions are addressed, providing reliable data about the environmental and social impacts of products. These tools empower industry professionals to make informed decisions and champion sustainable solutions.
By fostering transparency and collaboration, movements like Suppliers Declare and resources like ProductAware are driving a significant cultural shift toward greener, more accountable practices in the built environment. At Safetyline Jalousie, we’re proud to be part of this transformation.
Toward a Sustainable Future
The Australian construction industry’s path to sustainability requires balancing environmental performance with economic viability. Developers must showcase the financial and ecological benefits of sustainable buildings to align with evolving market demands. By prioritizing low-carbon materials and innovative technologies, the industry can reduce resource consumption, emissions, and costs while fostering healthier, more resilient communities.
As we step into 2025, the momentum is clear: sustainability is no longer optional—it’s essential. At Safetyline Jalousie, we remain committed to leading this transformation, proving that environmentally responsible practices can go hand in hand with cutting-edge innovation and performance. Through collaboration, transparency, and a relentless focus on improvement, we can build a greener future for generations to come.