LETTER FROM THE CHAIR
Normally I end my letter with a note of thanks but there is nothing more important than our support network so I will start with it. We are extremely thankful to all the incredible organisations and individuals that support the work of the LFIA. To all our sponsors, supporters, members, ambassadors, collaborative and volunteer network I would like to say an enormous thank you. Everything we have done and achieved as summarised in this report would not have been possible without you!
In 2019, the LFIA continued to reach some significant milestones. In April, we hired our first CEO, Laura Hamilton-O’Hara, who brings incredible passion, courage and energy. I am confident that the team we are building will successfully drive the LFIA forward in the years ahead.
We also continued to deliver some inspiring events with a difference, including our 3rd annual Symposium. Momentum is also building with projects and products. Australia now has 17 registered Living Building Challenge projects and we are increasingly seeing manufacturers responding by producing products of the highest environmental standard and increasing transparency through Declare labelling.
Over the coming year, we will continue to do the things that work to increase the awareness and impact of the programs and initiatives. We will also look to introduce new initiatives to build capacity and provide support to industry, working with key partners to leverage the reach of this work.
I will leave you with a quote, from the great Eluid Kipchoge, who became the first ever person to run a marathon in under 2 hours…
“There are no barriers when you believe in yourself and try and trust in what you are doing.”
PAOLO BEVILACQUA
CHAIR OF THE LFIA BOARD
