As can be seen from the site plan, the house component of the proposal includes significant setbacks from the Hawkesbury River, as well as the required 10m set-backs from each of the side boundaries (for asset protection zone requirements).

In response to the topography of the site, we hope to have the dwelling constructed on piers and surefooting footings, thereby negating the need for any significant earthworks and heavy equipment.

We have designed the house to be very regular in shape, minimising the need for offcuts. If the house is able to be built using Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) they will be sized so that they are able to be carried in by two men, thus decreasing the need for heavy machinery.  Using them also minimizes waste:

1. Reduced Site Disturbance: SIPs are prefabricated, which means shorter construction times and less disruption to the site. This is crucial in environmentally sensitive areas to protect existing vegetation and habitats.
2. Factory-Controlled Production: SIPs are manufactured in a controlled environment, which reduces errors and material wastage that often occur on-site.
3. Precision Manufacturing: The panels are cut to exact specifications, minimizing offcuts and excess materials.
4. Modular Design: SIPs are designed as large, modular panels that cover more area with fewer joints, reducing the amount of material needed and the potential for waste.
5. Reduced Job Site Waste: The prefabricated nature of SIPs means less cutting and fitting is required on-site, leading to less construction debris.
6. Recyclability: SIPs can be designed for easy disassembly and recycling at the end of their lifecycle, contributing to a circular economy.
7. Thermal Performance: Their superior insulation properties mean buildings require less energy for heating and cooling, which reduces the building's carbon footprint.
8. Air Quality and Noise Pollution: Faster construction times and fewer deliveries to the site decrease the impact on local air quality and reduce noise pollution, benefiting the surrounding environment.
9. Resource Efficiency: SIPs make efficient use of materials, such as oriented strand board (OSB) and expanded polystyrene (EPS), which are both recyclable and often made from sustainable sources.
10. Sustainable Forestry: The wood used in OSB for SIPs is often sourced from fast-growing, sustainably managed forests, contributing to sustainable forestry practices.
11. Increased Longevity and Durability: Buildings constructed with SIPs tend to have a longer lifespan and require fewer resources for maintenance and repair, reducing long-term environmental impact.

The engineering of the house and jetty (where possible, expected to be entirely within the area leading up to, and within, the mangrove area) is using Surefootings. This offer several environmental benefits, especially in environmentally sensitive areas:

1. Minimal Site Disturbance: Surefootings require less excavation compared to traditional concrete footings, reducing soil disruption and preserving natural habitats.
2. Reduced Carbon Footprint: The production of concrete footings generates significant carbon emissions, whereas Surefootings use fewer materials and produce fewer emissions. By minimizing the need for concrete, Surefootings help lower the demand for cement production, which is a significant source of CO₂ emissions.
3. Lightweight Construction: The materials used in Surefootings are generally lighter than traditional concrete, reducing transportation emissions. Less heavy equipment is needed, minimising need for ??? in the mangrove area.
4. Quick Installation: Faster installation means less time spent on-site, reducing the overall environmental impact of construction activities.
5. Durability and Longevity: Made from corrosion-resistant materials, Surefootings have a long lifespan, reducing the need for replacements and further construction.
6. Versatility: They can be adapted to various terrains and soil conditions, making them suitable for sensitive environments without extensive site preparation.
7. Reusability: Surefootings can often be removed and reused in other projects, contributing to a circular economy and reducing waste.
8. Improved Soil Health: With less soil compaction and disruption, Surefootings help maintain healthier soil ecosystems, supporting plant growth and reducing erosion.