Embracing Sustainability at ecologiQ Greener Infrastructure Conference

November 11, 2023

This year’s ecologiQ Greener Infrastructure Conference saw Alex Fraser partner with Hanson Australia to showcase our combined range of high-recycled and low carbon construction materials.

Alex Fraser and Hanson Australia side by side at the ecologiQ Greener Infrastructure Conference.

The three-day conference brought together industry leaders, sustainability experts, and innovators to explore the latest developments in green infrastructure and sustainability. Delegates had the opportunity to connect, explore sustainable solutions and collaborate on the future of greener infrastructure.

Hanson Australia National Sustainability Manager Brendan Liveris joined a panel to discuss ‘a world of possibilities in a concrete world’, along with SVC Products Sales & BDM Mark Jackson and Enviromesh Head of Strategy Stuart Neilson. Moderated by MRPV’s Rhys Owen-Roberts, they delved into the plethora of sustainable concrete solutions transforming the industry.

Brendan says having Co2 values against every concrete mix is something concrete suppliers are aspiring towards.

“Co2 transparency aligned with EPD data and reviewed by a third party is something we have spent a lot of time on at Hanson Australia, to help deliver important information quickly to those who need it most. From our tech teams designing mixes, to designers choosing mixes and project managers tracking projects, this is now in demand.”

Hanson Australia’s Offer Development and Transformation Manager Matthew Wilton took to the stage to showcase Hanson’s low carbon concrete solution – Enrich and Ecotera, which provide a new way to reduce the carbon footprint of construction projects.

“Concrete is a large contributor to Co2 emissions. There is a real need to do something about it and have a lasting impact on reducing Co2 in concrete production. Hanson Australia wants to be a part of the solution.”

Major Road Projects Victoria Executive Director Engineering and Program Services Alexis Davison, and ABC War on Waste host Craig Reucassel collectively shed light on the impressive work being done in Victoria to accelerate circularity and combat waste. Their insights showcased the determination to create a more sustainable future with stronger supply chains and refined manufacturing processes to meet the demands of government policies such as Recycled First.

Alex Fraser MD Peter Murphy speaking on the future of regional recycling panel.

A plenary panel discussion on the future of regional recycling, facilitated by Matt Genever, featured Alex Fraser MD Peter Murphy, along with Plasgrain GM Glenn Gillan, RPM Pipes MD Terry Kay, City of Greater Bendigo Council Circular Economy Coordinator Scott T. Bryant. They shared concepts for the potential growth of recycling and the circular economy in the regions, with an emphasis on the importance of sustainable practices.

Peter’s recommendation to local governments looking to “trial the use of recycled content in roads”, is to save time and energy by not doing what has already been done.

“If you’re looking to include recycled materials in pavement application, use the existing VicRoads specifications. There’s no reason for councils to invest in developing a whole new specification just because they’re in a different part of the state.”