Blaze prompts bid to build Green Star school
A resplendent green phoenix is rising from the ashes of a Tasmanian primary school.
The Tasmanian Government has announced a project to replace buildings lost in the January 2013 bushfires as part of its ‘build it back green’ intitiatives.
It says the re-built Dunaller Primary School will stand as a bright beacon of sustainability.
The Government is aiming for a high Green Star rating from the project. The new school will include four learning areas, an early learning centre, administration area, library, staff room, playground equipment and site landscaping.
Tasmanian Education Minister and Leader of the Tasmanian Greens, Nick McKim says there are so many benefits from such a project that it is really “a no-brainer”.
“It saves money that's better spent on our students' learning. It provides a great modern learning environment. And it contributes to young Tasmanians' understanding of sustainability and its importance for humanity's future,” Mr McKim said.
"Whether it's building sustainability and energy efficiency into our schools, our public housing stock, or our government buildings, this Tasmanian Government is determined to keep reducing pollution, supporting sustainable jobs and industries, and reducing living costs for Tasmanians," he added.
Green Star Accredited lead builder on the project Mr John Harris said; “the new facilities will provide an environment with well-considered classrooms, good indoor air quality and generous access to daylight.
“This will enhance student health and learning, improve teacher morale and have a positive effect on operational costs and the environment.”
Tasmania truly does lead the country when it comes to sustainable school buildings.
Dunalley Primary will join several other Tasmanian Government schools committed to achieving Green Star ratings. Previously, Kingston High School has scored a 5 Green Star - Education Design v1 rating, and the University of Tasmania has two 5 Star Green Star ratings for its Marine & Antarctic Sciences and Medical Sciences facilities.