Infrastructure Sustainability Rating
Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 achieves design "Leading" ISC Rating
The Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 project has been awarded an outstanding "Leading" ISC (Infrastructure Sustainability Council) rating, marking a significant achievement in its commitment to sustainability and innovation. This rating highlights the project's dedication to high standards in sustainable governance, social, and environmental performance across all stages of development—from planning through to operation.
The ISC Rating is Australia and New Zealand's only comprehensive system for evaluating infrastructure projects based on their performance in sustainability. As an industry best-practice standard, this recognition underscores the Gold Coast Light Rail's role as a leader in sustainable infrastructure development.
Here are some key initiatives highlighted in the certification.
Community Initiatives
The Gold Coast Light Rail Stage 3 project is dedicated to supporting local communities. A Community Benefit Fund was launched to provide financial support to 10 community organisations. Miami State High School received funding for a secure bike parking area, promoting active travel to and from school.
Renewable energy
The project design incorporates several renewable energy initiatives:
Green power: A green power purchase plan is in place for temporary construction facilities.
Solpod solar solution (Queensland first): re-deployable solar panels have been installed on the roofs at Broadbeach and Miami construction sites. These panels have been designed to reduce traditional grid electricity use by 30% and 55% at these sites.
Solar hybrid light towers: A fleet of solar and solar-diesel hybrid light towers are used to illuminate the Gold Coast Highway during construction.
Regenerative Electricity: Regenerative braking designed within the new Light Rail Fleet.
Solar panels: Solar panels on the new depot administrative building designed to generate 52,895 kWh per annum.
Innovation
The project embraces innovative technologies to enhance efficiency and sustainability:
ZoneBloc barriers (Australia first): Lightweight, compact concrete barriers reduce carbon emissions and transportation fuel usage.
Surfbee’s Flow Seeker UAV (Queensland first for a construction project): A remote-controlled boat that helps collect water samples easily and safely, reducing environmental risks.
Sustainable design
Efforts to reduce material embodied carbon include:
Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCM): Designing a higher average SCM replacement than the base case of 25%.
Fibre Reinforced Concrete: Use of synthetic fibre reinforced concrete instead of conventional steel reinforcement for the construction of the track slab.
Value Engineering: Value engineering design reductions in electrical pits, OHLE poles, pavement thickness and a traction power station resulting in reductions of a range of materials.
These initiatives highlight the project's commitment to environmental sustainability, innovation, and community engagement.
