Infrastructure Sector has a Big Role to Play in Reducing Emissions

As the world grapples with the rising impacts of climate change, all sectors need to examine their practices to limit the use of carbon intensive products and processes. In particular, the demand for new, existing and/or updated infrastructure in Victoria, much of it being driven by population growth, presents a significant opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across all stages of the project lifecycle.

Infrastructure Victoria, the state’s independent infrastructure advisory body, has been asked to provide advice to the Victorian Government on reducing greenhouse gas emissions across the lifecycle of infrastructure projects. It will examine current best practices across the globe and opportunities for Victoria to take a leading role and attempt to get consistency in the approach in Australia as appropriate.

The advice report will provide guidance to government on embedding decarbonisation practices across the infrastructure sector, including increasing production and adoption of low-carbon materials and methods through procurement.

High-level guidance for incorporating carbon emissions into business cases for large infrastructure has been in place in Victoria for several years. However, there are currently no clear state or national policies or consistent guidelines to avoid, reduce, account for, and manage emissions across public infrastructure. Infrastructure projects, including industry-led projects, must interpret current tools and frameworks in their own way to determine good practice.

A more consistent approach to account for greenhouse gas emissions across the design, investment, construction, maintenance and end of life of Victoria’s infrastructure will ensure the state is making the most efficient use of available resources and contributing effectively to its emissions reduction goals.

Infrastructure Victoria’s advice to government is due later in 2023 and will include input from industry, peak bodies, and research organisations.

To stay updated visit infrastructurevictoria.com.au