The Australian Bureau of Statistics has been conducting research into how it can contribute to the statistical measurement of 'green growth', focusing on green building.  A draft consultation paper has been produced that reports the findings of that research and makes suggestions as to measuring green building.

 

The paper aims to assess issues such as defining the concept of green building and its various interpretations and goes on to review possible data sources that could be used in the production of measurement indicators.

 

Various interpretations of green building (sometimes called green construction or sustainable building) exist and require exploration. However, the definition provided by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is particularly comprehensive and is used in the paper.  In addition, green building needs to be considered alongside broader concepts such as green growth and the green economy.

 

The ABS is hoping to identify stakeholders who have an interest in the measurement of green building, and the green economy more generally, so that a measurement framework capable of answering key policy questions can be developed.

 

Click HERE to download the ABS Consultation Paper.  Comments should be submitted by January 24th 2012