AECOM and the Infrastructure Sustainability Council have provided recommendations around how to build sustainability into preparation for the Olympic and Paralympic games
AECOM and the Infrastructure Sustainability Council have released a paper on how the Olympics and Paralympic Games can provide an opportunity to revolutionise the built environment and set a new sustainable paradigm for how infrastructure is designed, built, operated and maintained.
With a focus on climate positive, resilience and nature-based solutions, AECOM and the Infrastructure Sustainability Council have made a series of recommendations for the industry ahead of the Games, including:
- explore innovative renewable energy solutions, such as onsite renewable generation, alternative fuel sources, purchase power agreements and offset purchases
- create a standardised framework to measure carbon emissions, not just based on cost, but also efficiency, whole-of-life outcomes and effectiveness of solutions
- collaborate across local, state and federal governments to develop an integrated approach to climate modelling, measuring resilience and understanding risk
- define resilience early and establish its scope, while considering shocks and stresses beyond those associated with climate change and extreme weather events
- consider opportunities to position nature and the natural environment in a way that celebrates Australia’s natural heritage prominently within the Games infrastructure, precincts and beyond
- integrate First Nations knowledge and practice into standards, guidance and practice and bring together the wisdom and knowledge of Country to inform current and future practice for industry
- explore and promote community-centred decision-making to support efforts to deliver a meaningful and lasting legacy.
“At AECOM, we are committed to leaving a positive, lasting impact on people and our planet through our Sustainable Legacies strategy”, AECOM chief executive for Australia and New Zealand Richard Barrett says.
“Brisbane 2032’s publicly stated commitment to deliver a climate positive Games will require a significant shift in how the industry approaches infrastructure development, embracing sustainable practices and innovative technologies to reduce carbon emissions, mitigate climate risks and create a lasting legacy.”
A full copy of the paper can be found at: www.iscouncil.org/beyond-climate-positive