by Shane Henson — July 3, 2013—Visitors to the recently completed Melton Library and Learning Hub in the state of Victoria may be encouraged to learn more about sustainability, considering the place they now have to read and learn within was designed with a focus on sustainability. The facility is the first library in Australia to be certified under the Green Star program, actually earning an impressive 5 Star Green Star—Public Building Design PILOT rating from the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA).
The innovative hub consists of approximately 3,500 square meters over two levels and incorporates a range of spaces, including an 80-seat auditorium, community services including maternal and child health, classrooms, a cafe and a range of activity and breakout rooms.
The facility minimizes environmental impact through reduced light spillage, filtered storm water discharge, minimal noise pollution, no ozone-depleting insulation, the collection and reuse of rainwater (for toilets and watering the garden), and plantings of indigenous, drought-tolerant species to enhance the external aspects of the building.
Environmental achievements include:
- 82% reduction in potable water use when compared to a standard practice building;
- 92% recycling rate of the previous buildings which were demolished during the construction process;
- 43.7% reduction in total CO2 emissions related to the building use; and
- Annual utility cost savings of $29,800 a year, including $23,700 savings in gas and $5,000 in water, when compared with non-Green Star buildings.
“Melton City Council is very proud of the new Melton Library and Learning Hub and its 5 Star Green Star rating. It is a central focus for lifelong learning and community activity and we will educate our residents on the sustainability aspects of the building and encourage them to apply them at home where they can,” says Cr. Kathy Majdlik, mayor of Melton City Council.
