The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has begun consultation on the state’s first Protection of the Environment Policy (PEP) for Sustainable Construction.
The PEP aims to reduce upfront carbon emissions and promote a circular economy in major public infrastructure projects such as hospitals, schools and roads.
The NSW EPA has collaborated with Infrastructure NSW (INSW) to set proposed new standards for reporting and reducing upfront carbon emissions, while encouraging the use of recycled materials in public infrastructure projects.
Under the proposed policy, New South Wales government agencies would need to report on how they are decreasing emissions and prioritising recycled construction materials, applying an ‘if not, why not’ approach to justify decisions.
Asela Atapattu, Acting EPA Executive Director of Strategy and Policy, said the policy provided a critical step in cutting emissions and shrinking the carbon footprint of the state’s major infrastructure projects.
“With the largest infrastructure pipeline in the country, New South Wales is taking a leading role in driving sustainable construction practices and building a more resilient, climate-conscious future,” said Atapattu.
“We’re focused on putting innovative solutions at the forefront of modern construction to ensure our future infrastructure is not only resilient to climate change, but also contributes to a healthier state.”
If implemented, the final policy would apply to significant public projects with cost thresholds of more than $50 million for building sector projects and more than $100 million for all other infrastructure types.
The proposal is now open for a 12-week public consultation. Feedback closes on 2 April 2025.
For more information, visit: www.epa.nsw.gov.au/
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