Architects in Australia have released a Zero Carbon Housing Challenge report based on more than 330 homes. It found that renovating existing houses cut lifetime emissions by 90% on average, while new single homes were the most likely to hit net zero thanks to better energy efficiency and rooftop solar. A Canberra townhouse project using factory-built lightweight panels cut upfront emissions by more than half and lifetime emissions by 70%. The Australian Institute of Architects wants these approaches applied to the 1.2 million homes planned under the National Housing Accord. The report highlights real projects like the 1960s Secret Garden House, which improved its lifetime emissions to 30% better than net zero through insulation, sealing, solar, and natural ventilation. The message is that low carbon housing is not theoretical and can be done affordably.
