The sustainability reform outlined in this chapter focuses on embedding the quadruple bottom line as a goal for all infrastructure policy and investment. The sector-specific and wider reforms highlight the value of balancing sustainability.
The emissions reduction reforms are presented in that context, reconciling value for money infrastructure assessments with considerations of the 40-to-100-year operating lives of infrastructure assets and the timelines demanded by commitments to a net zero future.
In many cases, as well as environmental benefits, shifting to lower-emissions infrastructure will also lead to economic, social and governance benefits. These include supporting existing and emerging low-emissions technologies to create new jobs and industries, diversifying Australian agriculture and land management industries, and providing increased access to comparable governance information.
We have mainly focused on infrastructure assets with strong Australian Government involvement and high potential to support emissions reduction targets, such as transport. However, we also encourage state and territory governments and local councils to improve the sustainability of social infrastructure.
Sustainable infrastructure The assets, networks and systems that connect and provide access to services for communities today without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. Sustainable infrastructure is planned, designed, procured, constructed and operated to optimise economic, environmental, social and governance outcomes over the life of the asset. A sustainable approach to infrastructure is outlined in Sustainability Principles: Infrastructure Australia's approach to sustainability.56 |