Australia's urban areas and regional centers have transformed from concrete-dominated landscapes to include green spaces and environmentally friendly structures. Examples like One Central Park in Sydney and Santos Place in Brisbane highlight efforts to address Australia's environmental impact. However, the country still faces challenges, with a high per capita greenhouse gas emission rate and the construction sector contributing 18.1 percent to the national carbon footprint.

The latest report by the National Australian Built Environmental Rating System (NABERS) reveals positive growth in sustainable ratings for portfolios, indoor environments, and waste management. This indicates that sustainability efforts extend beyond construction to the ongoing maintenance and operation of commercial and residential properties.

With ESG considerations now commonplace in Australian companies, it is essential to examine not only the construction process but also the management practices to ensure the built environment is truly environmentally friendly. Government policies, such as the Federal government's Trajectory for Low Energy Buildings, aim to reduce carbon emissions, waste, and utility consumption while improving occupant conditions.

An ongoing challenge lies in implementing effective measures during construction that will remain effective in the long term. It is crucial to continuously monitor the performance of HVAC systems to ensure they operate efficiently and avoid unnecessary power consumption. Evaluating the effectiveness of water and energy conservation measures and addressing leaks promptly are also essential. Data plays a crucial role in achieving these goals.

The Internet of Things (IoT), with its network of interconnected devices, enables businesses and building operators to access previously untapped information about their facilities. The affordability and advancements in IoT technology empower commercial and residential properties to leverage data for improved energy efficiency and meeting ESG reporting obligations.

Technopolis, a shared workspace operator, successfully implemented IoT technology to monitor heating, cooling, and ventilation across its campuses. The real-time data provided significant savings and improved working conditions in a short period. Access to such data via IoT allows facility managers and occupants to monitor energy and water consumption, which is crucial considering the predicted increase in electricity and water prices.

The availability of usage data enables controlled and reduced consumption, driving efficiency benefits at a time when HVAC systems account for 70 percent of base building energy consumption. Additionally, IoT-based data provides consistent and accurate updates on conditions and abnormalities, enabling immediate identification and rectification of leaks or faults. This eliminates the need for expert personnel visits and reduces costs associated with meter reading, maintenance, and waste, ultimately benefiting bill payers.

As the built environment strives for greener practices in the fight against climate change, data will play a fundamental role in determining the ongoing impact of buildings and their long-term operations on the planet. Governments and industries have an opportunity to accelerate sustainability targets by not only constructing greener buildings but also creating transparency through data access and leveraging it to drive decision-making for sustainable city operations in the long run.