The first sod will be turned for construction of the next academic building on the Charles Sturt University’s (CSU) Thurgoona site by Vice-Chancellor Professor Ian Goulter on Tuesday 12 December. He will be joined by representatives from international chemical company BASF and regional energy provider Country Energy, whose products and services will be incorporated into the building’s construction and management. Worth $3 million, the two storey office block will use innovative materials developed by BASF for building insulation, the first time these materials have been used in Australia. Country Energy will provide expertise in monitoring and managing energy use in the building. “We are aiming to build a public building that minimises air conditioning and energy use by improving building insulation,” says Professor Goulter. “It demonstrates the University’s commitment to sustainability and will be a showcase for all Australia.”