Generation Developments wins for sustainability

News Release
For Immediate Release

June 06, 2006

Generation Developments takes a win for sustainability

Home and land package company Generation Developments' decision to focus on material resources and environmental efficiency is one of the reasons it was a winner at this year's Bay of Plenty Sustainable Business awards.

Tauranga-based Generation Developments won the Stage Two (intermediate sustainable business) award. More than 60 Bay of Plenty businesses entered the awards.

Award judges said Generation Developments demonstrated a sound understanding of sustainability as well as an awareness of the challenge in making sustainability affordable.

"It was very encouraging to see how small steps can have a big impact on progress such as the promotion of "low-flow" shower heads in new homes, and promotion of urban design principles in subdivision planning," the judges report read.

"Generation Developments' statement of values are excellent and were clearly visible in the workplace – a strong point in the submission, together with the company's clear commitment to living its values.

"It was good to see honesty in terms of the tension between choosing sustainable products and affordable ones. It was also encouraging to note Generation Developments' commitment to not use any product with adverse environmental effects.

"All in all, an outstanding submission from an outstanding company. A great commitment to sustainability in a practical and honest way with some genuine returns."

Generation Developments director David Mansel is delighted with the award success.

"New Zealand has a history of innovation and is famous for a can-do attitude. We in the construction industry are in a great position to effect positive changes towards sustainability.

"Sustainability isn't just a 'nice' thing to do. It ensures the ongoing viability of your business providing significant benefits. It should be looked at as a pragmatic business decision rather than just a movement towards being 'green'," Mansel says.

With sustainability being a core business focus for the last year, Generation Developments has progressed further through their sustainable business journey with the view to not only build sustainable homes but alter their customers' perceptions on the availability of sustainable solutions.

"We want to educate our customers on how they can make their homes more sustainable. There are many cost saving benefits that can come from implementing some very easy sustainable systems."

Generation Developments' website www.generation.co.nz includes a sustainability section on its website to educate clients about sustainable building options.

ENDS

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