Earthmoving News, Environment & Research

Calls for climate positive Olympic build

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

 

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