Low carbon stories
Carbon-negative concrete could cut road-building emissions by as much as 70%, with one kilometre absorbing CO2 equal to 100,000 trees a year.
Householders could cut power bills sharply as lenders and developers back solar, batteries and greener builds to meet demand for lower-emission homes.
Global cooperation and heavy state intervention would favour low-carbon infrastructure, while fossil-fuel projects and greenfield builds are marginalised.
Domestic travel spending could help cushion the sector as international arrivals slump and businesses await the effect of a new campaign.
Its climate potential for steelmaking could help cut coal use, as researchers uncover a zero-carbon way to make iron using hydrogen.
Timber towers are moving from experiments to major city landmarks, with projects in Toronto, Oslo, Rotterdam and Tokyo set to test the limits.
The material could cut construction emissions and reduce supply headaches by making blocks that heal themselves and use waste inputs.
Mass timber is opening up faster, cheaper projects across Australia, with new code changes and local supply widening its use beyond niche builds.
Rural farms could cut power bills and earn extra income as a new on-site biogas and solar system turns waste into electricity and fertiliser.
Larger office buildings could cut heating and cooling costs as revolving doors curb air loss and drafty chimney effects, experts say.
The Texas plant could help slash emissions from electricity generation if its carbon-capture system proves cheap enough for mass adoption.
Auckland’s rail link has cut construction waste and emissions sharply, showing big infrastructure can hit sustainability targets while easing congestion.
Scientists warn the world could breach 1.5C as soon as 2030, raising flood, drought and sea level risks unless emissions fall sharply.
Residents and developers could face tighter rules as Sydney commits to net zero carbon buildings by 2050 and new builds by 2030.
Lower vacancy rates in Auckland and Wellington are boosting landlords' returns, with Green Star office buildings drawing tenants more quickly than the wider market.
Nearly 70 per cent complete, Brisbane’s 45-metre 25 King office tower has drawn fresh investor interest as Impact Investment Group seeks co-investors.
The conference aims to help New Zealand build a low-carbon economy and create jobs, as it eyes net zero by 2050.
New Zealand’s emissions rose 20% from 1990 to 2016, underscoring the difficulty of meeting its 2030 climate target.
New Zealand’s transport emissions could fall sharply if biofuels are developed locally, but only with policy support and investment.
Polls show climate policy is now central to voters, with every major party except New Zealand First facing science questions on emissions.
