The Framework works alongside other policies, such as Victoria’s Climate Change Strategy, the Recycling Victoria policy and the Recycled First policy, to avoid the harmful effects of environmental destruction on people and the economy, and to ensure future Victorians will be able to enjoy their natural surroundings for generations to come.
Environmentally sustainable outputs
The Environmentally sustainable outputs objective encourages the use of sustainable resources as well as responsible management of waste and pollution from procurements. It also encourages the use of recycled content in construction.
Environmentally sustainable business practices
The Environmentally sustainable business practices objective encourages the adoption of sustainable business practices by suppliers to the Victorian government.
Implementation of Climate Change Policy objectives
Implementation of Climate Change Policy Objectives aims to both minimise greenhouse gas emissions and encourage government buyers to procure outputs that are resilient against the impacts of climate change.
Case Study: Testing floating wetlands provides opportunities for sustainable development
Environmental impacts and climate change mitigation measures are of utmost concern to Victorians. Westernport Water are trialling a nature-based solution for wastewater treatment, referred to as floating wetlands. These plant systems absorb nutrients and contaminants, as well as provide aquatic habitats for wildlife. Not only is the trial an opportunity to explore the effectiveness of a new water treatment method, but it presented an opportunity for Westernport Water to engage in sustainable procurement when purchasing the necessary equipment.
The trial represents a joint initiative between Westernport Water, Deakin University, Covey Associates, Clarity Aquatic and CSIRO with funding from the Victorian Government, Intelligent Water Networks and Yarra Valley Water. CSIRO are monitoring for the uptake of emerging contaminants and Deakin University are tracking greenhouse gas emissions, while Westernport Water are monitoring the nutrient uptake that improves the quality of the wastewater. If successful, Westernport Water’s floating wetlands will inform a planned project at the King Road Wastewater Treatment Plant for a more sustainable approach to management of wastewater.
Westernport Water are keenly aware of the importance of protecting the environment and how the discharge of wastewater affects aquatic environments. Consequently, social and sustainable procurement was given a strong 20% weighting during tender evaluation, including consideration for the use of recycled material in construction and emissions. The final product they settled on, through awarded partner Clarity Aquatic, was identified as substantially better for the environment than competing floating wetland products. Westernport Water have been impressed by the UV stabilised plastic, meaning there is no risk of microplastics being released into the environment through perishing materials. The system itself is modular so that it can be transported to other locations and reused. Not only that, but the system is 100% recyclable at the end of its life. Other materials, such as rocks and plants, were sourced locally.
While the use of the floating wetlands is a trial, the procurement demonstrates how the Framework helps deliver value-for-money that considers more than just the cost. Even though the system procured was not the cheapest on offer, Westernport Water reports that it offered the best environmental outcomes. Oceans and waterways are incredibly important. Reflecting that importance in procurement evaluations helps demonstrate the value that the environment represents to Victoria.
Case Study: Upgrading AAMI Park facilities using environmentally sustainable business practices
When Melbourne was selected as one of the host cities for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, the team at Melbourne & Olympic Parks (M&OP) saw an opportunity to upgrade the facilities at AAMI Park to meet the needs of fans, players and partners.
The entire package was valued at over $28 million (including a $25.15 million grant from the Victorian Government) across 6 key project streams:
- Improving player facilities
- Enhancing spectator experience
- Upgrading corporate, broadcast, and media facilities
- Sports light replacement
- Installing new state-of-the-art LED scoreboards
- Extending WiFi connectivity throughout the stadium
M&OP was committed to delivering strong sustainability outcomes throughout the project and was pleased to be able to partner with suppliers who shared their vision.
Recycling was identified as a key opportunity, with close to 42 tonnes of waste collected across the full program of works. Of this, an impressive 89% was recycled. 344 halogen lamps were replaced and recycled through the sports light upgrade, with 320 energy efficient LEDs installed in their place. Even the superseded grow lamps (specialised lights that stimulate turf growth on the pitch) were able to be rehomed to an interstate venue, extending their useful life.
Waste collected and recycled in 2022-23
Recycling was identified as a key opportunity, with close to 42 tonnes of waste collected across the full program of works. Of this, an impressive 89% was recycled. 344 halogen lamps were replaced and recycled through the sports light upgrade, with 320 energy efficient LEDs installed in their place. Even the superseded grow lamps (specialised lights that stimulate turf growth on the pitch) were able to be rehomed to an interstate venue, extending their useful life.
The sustainability outcomes achieved through the AAMI Park works demonstrate what can be achieved when buyers and suppliers are aligned in their values. M&OP, the delivery team, and construction partners, worked collaboratively to deliver excellent sustainability outcomes while remaining agile enough to continue the delivery of fixtures and events at the stadium with minimal interruption.
This program of works was delivered by:
- Procuring agency: Melbourne & Olympic Parks
- Project Management and Delivery Team: Deloitte PDS Group
- Architect (Corporate, Media & Broadcast package and Videoboards): Cox Architecture
- Corporate, Media & Broadcast Head Contractor: Renascent Constructions
- LED Scoreboards: Hanlon Industries and Daktronics
- Sportslighting: Harris HMC, Aurecon Australasia, and Buckford Illumination Group
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