JG KING HOMES is committed to sound environmental practices. As an accredited HIA GreenSmart Professional it aims to increase energy efficiency, reduce water consumption, minimise waste and encourage better environmental management at each stage in the construction of today’s housing.

JG KING HOMES is committed wherever possible to assessing the environmental, health & safety, quality, social and economic impacts of its purchasing decisions.

In considering environmental impact, we seek to purchase products that:

• minimise greenhouse gas emissions;
• maximise sustainability;
• utilise recycled content in production;
• are recyclable at life end;
• minimise the use of water;
• minimise toxicity; and
• are sourced from producers and/or suppliers with a proven record of environmental management and product stewardship In considering social impact, we seek to work with suppliers who:
• provide assurance that no form of abuse or exploitation is permitted within their supply chain;
• offer Fair Trade products, where appropriate;
• operate within the law – including environmental laws;
• follow guidelines, codes and standards of the appropriate authorities - including the EPA

J G KING HOMES will continue to seek ways to reduce the environmental impact of the products it uses.

JG King Homes has constructed a 7-star energy rated home that opened to the public in March 2008 at Macarthur Park Estate in Ballarat.

We constructed the 7-star Armadale alongside a standard 5-star energy rated equivalent to test the environmental liveability and performance of both homes. We will monitor the results for a one-year period and release test data to show the short and long-term value of building to a 7-star standard.

The greenhouse emission leakage from a standard 5-star rated home is 1.49 tonnes each year. The 7-star Armadale will account for just 0.3 tonnes annually representing reduction of 1.19 tonnes of greenhouse emissions every year for the life of the home. In addition, overall energy consumption will potentially be reduced by 80% meaning a significant annual saving on household energy costs for heating and cooling alone of over $800.

The 4 bedroom Armadale is sited on the building block to optimise prevailing weather conditions and features a combination of highly advanced building methods and materials to achieve its 7-star energy rating. Upgraded features include:

• • Increased insulation to walls and ceilings
• • A virtually sealed building envelope
• • An automated fresh air exchange system that also minimises allergens
• • Waffle pod slab to minimise heat and cold transfer through floors
• • Solar hot water
• • Double-glazed windows in selected areas of the home
• • Low energy lighting
• • A rain water capture and utilisation system

The 7-star Armadale is located at 3 Baxter Street, Macarthur Park Estate, Ballarat.