The report, ‘Towards climate safe homes: The case for zero emissions and water saving homes and neighbourhoods’, was compiled by Environment Victoria in partnership with the Alternative Technology Association (ATA), Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF), Friends of the Earth (FoE) and the Moreland Energy Foundation (MEFL).

The environment groups believe a new Building Code could lead to Victorian homes being emission-free and water efficient by 2020. Environment Victoria’s Campaigns Director Mark Wakeham said: “At the moment our inefficient homes are part of the climate change problem.”

“However, the report shows that greenhouse gas emissions from the average home can be reduced by more than 75 per cent with energy efficient design and appliances, while the rest of the home’s energy needs can be supplied by renewable energy. This means our houses can be effectively emissions free and part of the climate change solution.”
 

The report, 'Towards climate safe homes', also calls for a 40% water savings target to be applied to new homes ensuring a long-term solution for future generations.