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Climate change is having a devastating impact on communities around the world. Raging wildfires, intense rainfall and unprecedented flooding are increasingly dominating the news.
Preserving our climate is the responsibility of both the individual and collective, requiring every one of us to act with intention and unity. In the infrastructure sector, we have a huge potential to make a difference, and our Carbon Crunch events are a platform to keep the climate conversation front of mind. To decarbonise the infrastructure supply chain, we must work together to transform our infrastructure systems, innovate and build resilience for future generations.
For our second annual Aotearoa Carbon Crunch event, we took a holistic approach to decarbonising infrastructure, connecting with the supply chain on meaningful action. To do so, we partnered with Local Government New Zealand, Infrastructure Sustainability Council (ISC) and the Institute of Directors, Chapter Zero to share industry leaders’ knowledge.
Our presenters shared their experience across the whole industry, from the conversations happening in the boardroom, to what is now expected during design and construction. Practical examples of decarbonisation efforts in concrete, steel and construction were shared to inspire the industry to keep moving towards net zero and consider nature-based solutions as a catalyst for transformation.
Climate has become a leadership issue, and we have the responsibility and opportunity to drive action and change from the boardroom.
Abby Foote, steering committee member for Chapter Zero at the Institute of Directors New Zealand delivered her opening address at this year’s Carbon Crunch in Auckland.
Pioneering sustainability in urban infrastructure requires a clear vision, ambitious targets, and a collective effort from all stakeholders.
Carolyn Cox, sustainability manager and kaiwhakahaere rauora for City Rail Link gave insights into the journey Auckland’s largest transport project has gone on since 2016.
There is a necessary push and pull from all parties involved in infrastructure delivery to reduce carbon.
The key message that Nick Dempsey, technical director water for Mott MacDonald demonstrated in his presentation was that we all must play our part.
As a fundamental material for building a modern society concrete remains indispensable and plays a pivotal role in infrastructure decarbonisation.
Tim Kleier, sustainability and policy director for Concrete NZ was invited to talk about the strides the concrete industry is taking in the quest for decarbonisation.
As a hard-to-abate sector, steelmaking is responsible for a substantial portion of global carbon emissions.
We heard from Israel MacDonald, sustainability and market director for New Zealand Steel, on alternative methods to reduce emissions in steelmaking.
Innovation in construction is a continuous journey. Celebrating successes and sharing learnings, both good and bad, are crucial.
Rachel Blake, environmental manager at Brian Perry Civil, shared the momentum and challenges that the construction industry faces in its efforts to decarbonise.
The journey towards decarbonisation is not just about compliance; it’s about collaboration and innovation.
Dr Kerry Griffiths, IS technical director at the Infrastructure Sustainability Council, concluded our event with her thoughts on the industry’s way forward.
New Zealand
Amanda Bryan
Technical director, environment and society