The EnviroDevelopment standards are a comprehensive sustainability rating tool for commercial, industrial and residential development projects. The new version of the technical standards was developed to take into account changes to Queensland legislation, community expectations and standard development practices that have occurred since the scheme was launched in October 2006.

The scheme aims to encourage sustainability in a broad sense - promoting social, economic and environmental sustainability. Developers can gain accreditation for sustainable practices in six different areas - ecosystems, water, energy, waste, materials and community; and certified developments can be branded to show that the project is sustainable and uses resources responsibly.

HopgoodGanim has a long standing relationship with UDIA, and the firm's planning and development partner David Nicholls said that from a legal perspective, it is becoming increasingly important for developers to embrace sustainable development solutions.

"Queensland's legislation is becoming more and more focused on climate change and achieving better outcomes for both the environment and our community. Developers are well advised to consider sustainability issues right from the beginning of their projects," he said.

He added that in addition to the beneficial environmental outcomes the scheme promotes, it also enables developers to market their projects and reduce their operating costs.