ANSI

About ANSI

The Australian National Sustainability Initiative (ANSI) is a proposal for a living, working and learning centre that will address social, economic, environmental and ecological sustainability. As a set of buildings to house sustainability action learning, the development itself will demonstrate sustainability in action. It will position Australia as the world leader in sustainability education by showing how development can contribute tangible net positive social and environmental solutions. Just as the Sydney Opera House was an icon for the 20th Century, […]

Jerabomberra wetlands, Google Earth photo by Dekool

ANSI history

ANSI has evolved over many years through extensive input and engagement of citizens, organizations, governments and sustainability experts and educators around Australia. It was spearheaded by the ANB (Australian National Biocentre Inc), a project of the Nature and Society Forum.

ANSI Functions

In brief, the ANSI Centre consists of: Office spaces for companies and community groups promoting sustainable services, products and practices. An eco-hotel for low-cost, low-impact student and tourist accommodation. A national and public meeting centre for sustainability projects, workshops, conferences and mediated conflict resolution. Family-oriented entertainment areas, including organic food outlets, play garden, nature interpretation, and guided tours. Exhibition or display spaces to showcase products, processes and technologies that contribute to sustainability, while helping to stimulate the market for environmental […]

Education Plan

In addition to continuous education and training of all ages, ANSI will empower the youth of Australia through engagement in activities that provide hope and inspiration, and have positive flow on effects for the wider community. It will enlist the arts, sciences and humanities in creative, interactive, virtual and experiential co-learning about nature and society. It will also provide a voice for the ‘sustainability success stories’ of bioregions around Australia.

Jerabomberra wetlands, Google Earth photo by Elena Govor

Business Plan

The market for commercial buildings which are environmentally sustainable has been steadily growing in recent years. The evidence across the world is very strong that such buildings are grabbing attention because they pay their way.

Design Plan

The proposed sustainability learning centre will demonstrate a whole new typology of architecture that creates net positive ecological and social impacts. A lightweight, demountable space frame structure supports a ‘green space wall’, composed of double skin modules. These modules create a variety of ecosystem goods and services (‘eco-services’) and environmental control functions. The modules not only heat, cool and ventilate the building, but produce clean energy, air, water and soil. The biospheres and ecosystem services are integrated with the structure […]

Who we are

The Australian National Sustainability Initiative is a collaboration of many individuals and groups. It is a project of the Australian National Biocentre which was founded by Nature and Society Forum. Members include scientists, artists, and professional people of all ages sharing the goal of healthy people on a healthy planet. The proposed Centre and Network will be independent, publicly-owned entities. The project is currently being managed by the Board of the Australian National Biocentre.

ANSI Benefits

The project can put Australia at the forefront of positive change and the realisation that physical development can increase sustainability and social equity.

Support ANSI

Please provide any ideas and suggestions using the online feedback form or register yourself or your organisation on our website.