An infrastructure sustainability measurement tool for major projects can only succeed if it can operate within government regulation and has broad industry support, according to the Co-operative Research Centre for Construction Innovation (CRCCI).

 

CRCCI chief executive officer, Dr Keith Hampson, told the AFR National Infrastructure Conference in Sydney that the measurement tool, which is currently under development, is being proposed by the Australian Green Infrastructure Council as a practical tool to help companies and organisations achieve more sustainability through design, construction and operation.

 

“The tool is a vital component for Australian industry and governments over the next decades. It’s a chance for government and industry to shape the future for the country in terms of the sustainable environment and provide a pragmatic assessment tool at a time when rebuilding and extending community infrastructure is an absolute imperative,” Dr Hampson said.

 

“There is no question that it will be an invaluable way of improving industry performance. But it cannot work unless there is industry wide consultation and buy-in on what will work best for the nation.

 

“And it has to be compatible with all level of government legislation in all states.”

 

Dr Hampson told the conference that the proposed new Sustainable Built Environment CRC is in a unique position, because of its background, experience and connections with both government and industry, to bring research partners from all stakeholders together.

 

“This tool has to be the result of rigorous scientific research programs and public policy development together with independent acceptance across by all involved," he added.

 

“We proved we could do this with a number of projects but particularly the Safer Construction National Guidelines, working as a national facilitator across the private and public sectors.”