2 minute read
Delivering Sustainability Through Infrastructure
By Mr Adrian Piani, ACT Chief Engineer
MR ADRIAN PIANI, ACT CHIEF ENGINEER
The effects of climate change are already impacting the Canberra region and communities around the world. We not only need to adapt to a changing climate, where we can expect to see hotter summers and more extreme weather events, but we also need to continue reducing our greenhouse gas emissions in line with our zero emissions by 2045 target.
The construction sector makes a significant contribution to the overall emissions of the ACT. With the substantial pipeline of major infrastructure projects coming up, there are many opportunities to reduce emissions and future proof assets through the design and construction phases of our infrastructure asset lifecycle. A simple example is using lower carbon concrete. Engagement with the concrete supply chain in the ACT indicates that these products are in the market with a wide range of choices readily available.
There are other examples where the innovative use of new technologies and building materials are creating substantial carbon savings and better outcomes. The use of engineered wood products such as Cross Laminated Timber and Glulam not only reduce the carbon footprint of buildings, but can also lead to innovative design with strong engineering and architectural benefits. The recently opened Stromlo Leisure Centre, and the Australian National Universities Union Court redevelopment are two such examples.
The recent Northbourne Avenue pavement rehabilitation works used innovative technology to recycle 5,500 tonnes of material on site and reduce imported material by over 65%. Importantly for road users, the construction was delivered in 6 weeks, rather than the 26 weeks that was initially programmed.
These examples demonstrate that there are viable engineering options to deliver innovative solutions that provide multiple benefits. One of the enablers to deliver these sustainability principles is through procurement. The ACT Government follows a Charter of Procurement Values. These values promote consideration of a range of ethical, environmental, economic and social factors to ensure that procurement processes and outcomes reflect the values of the ACT Government and maximise overall benefits to our community. Contractors increase their chance of winning work with the ACT Government when responding strongly to these values.
Environmental rating tools are another enabler. The ACT Climate Change Strategy requires larger Government projects to obtain or be consistent with independent sustainability ratings such as those offered by the Infrastructure Sustainability Council of Australia and the Green Building Council of Australia. These tools provide a strong mechanism to demonstrate leading application of sustainable technologies.
Looking forward, I am excited by the opportunity to find innovative ways to deliver infrastructure that optimises environmental, social and economic outcomes. It will only be through industry and government working together that we will be able to deliver a zero emissions future that is adapting to a changing climate and enhancing our natural environment.
