InfraBuild, an Australian recycling firm, has advanced its sustainability efforts by installing a relocatable two-storey office complex made from shipping containers at its vast one-million-square-metre facility in Mayfield, Newcastle.

Developed by Modulate Group, this innovative project highlights InfraBuild’s dedication to eco-friendly practices and demonstrates the viability of steel as a sustainable and long-lasting building material.

The 225-square-metre office development, bathed in natural light, was custom-built to meet the needs of InfraBuild’s recycling staff. 

As Australia’s only fully vertically-integrated steel manufacturer, InfraBuild leads the charge in material circularity, using electric arc furnaces to transform high-quality scrap steel into new products, diverting waste from landfills and contributing to the global circular economy.

David Bowden, National Project Operations Manager at InfraBuild Recycling, praised the design, noting that it aligns with the company’s sustainability goals while offering practical benefits.

“We believe the very tough but very comfortable relocatable steel building we refined and customised shows what can be achieved within the scope of well-designed container-based steel buildings,” Bowden said.

The structure consists of eight 20-foot and two 40-foot shipping containers, customised to create a spacious, functional workspace with built-in insulation and integrated utilities. 

Key sustainability features include efficient water management, climate control systems, and the ability to be disassembled and relocated as needed, offering long-term flexibility for InfraBuild’s operations.

The office complex includes:

• Top-floor open layout: A large boardroom and manager’s office feature sliding glass doors and panoramic windows, providing expansive views of the worksite.
• Ground-floor offices: Seven private offices are connected by a wide hallway, with a foyer and additional workspaces.
• Well-equipped kitchen: Includes modern Polytec® joinery, a breakfast bar, and a ZIP hot and cold filtration system. An additional kitchenette maximises space at the end of the hallway.
• Bathrooms: Two bathrooms fitted with R10 sheet vinyl surfaces for easy cleaning and durability.
• Staircase and roof design: A galvanised steel staircase with custom handrails connects the two floors. The cyclone-rated roof and water management system, including gutters and downpipes, ensure efficient rainwater conservation.
• Climate control: Three external AC units power 16 interior head units, ensuring a comfortable environment throughout the structure.

Bowden highlighted the office’s resilience, noting it was built to endure the challenges of a demanding industrial site.

“The strength is built into it, so it can comfortably accommodate hard-working crews with all their gear, without having to worry too much about damage. Even if the exterior of the building got a bump from site machinery, it is built to take the knocks without spilling insulation or fracturing services,” he said.

For more details on the project, visit Modulate Group or learn about InfraBuild’s operations at InfraBuild.

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Dematic, a leader in warehouse solutions, has achieved the esteemed Steel Sustainability Australia (SSA) Certification for its manufacturing facility in Belrose, NSW. 

This recognition highlights the company’s commitment to sustainability and eco-conscious manufacturing practices for its Australian-made Dematic and Colby Storage Solutions products, the company said in a media release. 

The SSA Certification Program, managed by the Australian Steel Institute (ASI), assesses environmental and social impacts within steel manufacturing and processing operations. It encourages best sustainability practices across the steel supply chain, verifying downstream distributors, fabricators, and roll formers, as well as upstream producers, against top-tier environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards.

Lee Koutsos, head of Dematic’s ANZ Storage Equipment Division, expressed pride in the achievement: “We are incredibly proud to receive this certification, which reflects our dedication to sustainable and responsible production. The Colby Storage Solutions team is committed to reducing our environmental impact while continuing to deliver high-quality products.” 

He added, “This recognition reinforces our efforts to lead the way in sustainable supply chain operations.”

The SSA Certification, a part of the Green Building Council of Australia’s (GBCA) Responsible Products Framework (RPF), plays a crucial role in advancing sustainability in construction and manufacturing sectors. 

Companies earning this certification, like Dematic, align their efforts with Green Star ratings under the GBCA, committing to reducing carbon footprints and upholding eco-friendly steel procurement practices.

Dematic’s SSA Certification affirms the company’s dedication to responsible sourcing and efficient manufacturing processes. 

Koutsos emphasised the importance of sustainability in modern supply chains:
“In today’s supply chain industry, sustainability is more than just a buzzword – it’s a necessity. This certification not only provides assurance to our customers that the steel we use adheres to the highest green standards, but also ensures that we are contributing to a cleaner, greener future.”

For over 55 years, ColbyRACK, Dematic’s selective pallet racking brand, has been manufactured in Sydney’s northern beaches. 

Dematic also produces racking and shelving for Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (AS/RSs) and Dematic Multishuttle solutions at its Sydney factory.

For more information on Dematic’s ColbyRACK range, visit www.colby.com.au.

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Global bus manufacturer HESS has officially introduced its high-capacity, zero-emission vehicle, the lighTram 25, at the Bus Industry Confederation’s National Bus and Coach Show in Brisbane.

Designed in Switzerland and tested extensively in Brisbane, the lighTram 25 boasts a capacity to carry 180 passengers – comparable to a tram or light rail but with the flexibility of an articulated bus. 

HESS CEO Alex Naef highlighted that the Australian launch follows three years of rigorous design and testing, positioning the lighTram 25 as a central component of Brisbane City Council’s Brisbane Metro “turn-up-and-go” service.

“The lighTram® 25 on display at the Bus Show is proven locally and Australian Design Rules compliant. The vehicle has gone through more than a 1000-hours of on-road tests and through strong collaboration with Brisbane City Council, sets new standards for passenger accessibility, comfort and safety,” Naef explained.

The Brisbane showcase provides the bus industry with a firsthand look at the lighTram® 25’s spacious and high-capacity design. 

With an early service launch scheduled for next month, attendees also had the chance to see the vehicle in action on Brisbane’s busways.

“The lighTram® 25 is a flexible, high-capacity, electric vehicle that can future-proof existing bus routes without the long lead-time and massive capital cost of having to construct the rails for them” Naef added. 

He continued, “An opportunity to participate in the increasing demand of mobility and enable bus operators to continue as bus operators, using a lot of their existing expertise and infrastructure.”

Peter Dale, regional manager for HESS, noted that the launch aligns with global trends towards rapid mass transit solutions to address urban mobility challenges. 

“The Brisbane Metro stands out as a pioneering project, combining the efficiency and capacity of light rail with the flexibility and lower infrastructure costs of bus-based systems,” Dale explained.

“Governments are now openly discussing Bus Rapid Transit as a flexible and cost-effective measure to increase capacity and move people quickly.”

The lighTram® 25 will be powered by Australia’s inaugural fast charging network at Brisbane City Council’s Rochedale Bus Depot. 

This facility will house 15 x 600 kW flash charging stations, equipped with pantographs for automatic rooftop battery connection, allowing for a rapid charge in under six minutes. 

Additionally, 60 CCS2 plug-in slow charging stations will be available.

Naef also emphasised the benefits of HESS’s CO-BOLT aluminium bus body system, which eliminates the need for welding and extends the lifespan of joints. 

The design places high-voltage components on the roof, enhancing safety and capacity. 

“Our philosophy is that HESS vehicles are there first and foremost to carry passengers, not batteries,” Naef said.

The bus features a low-floor design for accessible boarding, three large double doors for efficient passenger flow, and a dedicated driver’s compartment door. 

To support the Australian launch, Volgren has renewed its 45-year partnership with HESS, offering local sales, technical support, and fit-out services.

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Holcim Australia Pty Ltd, a global leader in sustainable building solutions, has partnered with Putzmeister Oceania to trial Australia’s first 100 per cent electric concrete truck mixer. 

The vehicle, a SANY eMixer, marks a major milestone in the construction industry’s transition to carbon-neutral practices, JHolcim said in a news release. 

Approved under Australian Design Rules (ADRs), the eMixer is nowAll Posts road-registered and operational, setting new standards in sustainable transport and logistics.

Cyril Giraud, head of Sustainability at Holcim Australia and New Zealand, emphasised the importance of the initiative. 

“At Holcim, our commitment to sustainability drives us to continuously improve and innovate. Working in partnership with our suppliers to reduce carbon emissions across transportation and logistics will go a long way in helping us achieve our sustainability goals,” Giraud said.

The trial involves a SANY SY408P Electric Chassis equipped with an Australian-made mixer structure, developed in collaboration with Cesco Australia. 

The 350 kWh battery, provided by leading global battery manufacturer CATL, allows the vehicle to operate entirely on electricity, ensuring emission-free concrete transportation from plant to site.

Putzmeister Oceania collaborated with Cesco Australia to adapt the eMixer to Australian requirements. Kevin Peet, Regional Logistics Manager, Concrete Vic/SA, Holcim, highlighted the rigorous testing process. 

“The performance of the truck and battery efficiency are being evaluated in metro and urban environments, which have unique operating constraints for ready-mix concrete distribution.”

The eMixer’s battery can be fully charged overnight with a 30-kW charger or rapidly charged within three hours. 

Additionally, the truck is quieter and more energy-efficient than diesel alternatives, potentially offering significant operational cost savings.

William Liang, SANY Concrete & Road Machinery sales manager, noted that the eMixer’s lower operating costs and reduced maintenance could result in long-term financial benefits. 

“It is more energy-efficient and requires less maintenance, which could result in significant cost savings over the vehicle’s lifetime. This not only makes it a smart financial choice but also aligns with our commitment to sustainability and innovation in the construction industry,” he noted.

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BlueScope Steel Limited has announced the release of its FY2024 Sustainability Report, outlining its progress and future plans towards creating a more sustainable and environmentally friendly steel manufacturing process. 

The report highlights significant achievements in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, promoting responsible supply chain practices, and fostering a safe, inclusive workplace.

Sustainability leadership and global recognition

BlueScope has received global recognition for its sustainability efforts, being named a worldsteel 2024 Sustainability Champion. 

It also secured ResponsibleSteel site certification for its Phu My facility in Vietnam, marking a notable achievement in the Southeast Asian steel industry.

BlueScope’s CEO, Mark Vassella, emphasised the company’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community development across the 15 countries where it operates.

Emission reduction milestones

According to the report, in New Zealand, BlueScope’s Glenbrook site is undergoing a transformative upgrade with the construction of an electric arc furnace (EAF). 

This project, in partnership with the New Zealand government, is expected to reduce the site’s Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 55 per cent. BlueScope’s Delta, Ohio steel mill in North America has contributed to a 12 per cent reduction in steelmaking emissions intensity since 2018.

In Australia, BlueScope is exploring lower-emission ironmaking technologies, including the use of natural gas and hydrogen. These developments could reduce GHG emissions by as much as 85 per cent, marking a step towards BlueScope’s long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Community and workplace safety initiatives

Safety remains a top priority for BlueScope, with the company reporting several key safety initiatives in 2024. A global “Refocus on Safety” program was launched to address safety risks in high-risk activities, including the cleaning of live equipment. 

However, BlueScope reported four incidents in FY2024 that resulted in permanent incapacities, underscoring the continued importance of safety innovations.

BlueScope also emphasised its efforts to foster an inclusive workplace. The company maintained its target gender balance for its Board and Executive Leadership Team (ELT), with women representing 25 per cent of its workforce globally. 

In New Zealand, BlueScope received the Inclusive Workplace award at the Diversity Awards NZ for its progress in gender equity and inclusivity.

Collaboration for a sustainable future

To further its decarbonization goals, BlueScope has partnered with leading Australian iron ore producers Rio Tinto and BHP to investigate the feasibility of Australia’s first ironmaking electric smelting furnace (ESF). 

This collaboration could help pave the way for near-zero GHG emissions in steel production, utilizing renewable energy and direct reduced iron (DRI) technology.

Additionally, BlueScope continues to prioritise circularity within its operations, focusing on the durability, reuse, and recyclability of steel products. 

The company said it is working closely with universities, industry partners, and customers to address sustainability challenges, from designing longer-lasting products to reducing the carbon footprint of steel across its lifecycle.

For more information about BlueScope Steel’s sustainability initiatives and to view the full report, visit bluescope.com.

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FSC Forest Week 2024 is set to begin this Saturday, 21 September, as part of a global initiative led by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) to promote awareness of sustainable forestry. 

The week-long campaign, running from 21 to 27 September, highlights the importance of responsible forest management in addressing climate change and preserving biodiversity, FSC said in a media release.

With the theme “Small Steps Together Create Big Change for All,” this year’s event highlights how simple, everyday actions—such as choosing sustainably sourced products—can collectively lead to significant positive impacts on the environment. 

FSC Forest Week also celebrates the efforts of forest stewards around the world who are actively working to protect forests and ensure their long-term health.

In Australia and New Zealand, a variety of industries, including forestry organisations, retail giants, fashion brands, packaging companies, and environmental NGOs, are taking part in the celebration. 

These stakeholders are getting involved through social media campaigns, magazine features, internal events, competitions, and other creative initiatives to demonstrate their commitment to sustainable forestry.

According to the organisation, the campaign’s message is clear: even the smallest steps can contribute to safeguarding forests and ensuring a healthy planet for future generations.

FSC certificate holders, members, and promotional licence holders are encouraged to register for the campaign, while others can show support by engaging with FSC ANZ’s social media content. 

For more information on how to get involved, visit FSC Forest Week.

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GB Masonry has unveiled two new innovative products, the GB Vertico range and OpenForm pavers, offering a fresh take on outdoor architecture with sustainable, design-focused solutions. 

The new products emphasise rectilinear linework, intertwining nature with modern architectural design, the company said in a media release. 

The OpenForm pavers, featuring a crosshatch design, use 35 per cent less concrete than standard pavers and enhance drainage, allowing greenery to grow through their openings. 

Available in Porcelain Honed, Grey Smooth, and Charcoal Honed finishes, they adapt to both small courtyards and expansive landscapes.

The GB Vertico range features ribbed concrete blocks, designed to bring bold visual impact to both exterior and interior spaces. 

Available in contemporary shades like Porcelain, Nickel, Limestone, and Pewter, the blocks offer versatility and a striking aesthetic.

“Giving a new façade to the typically flush materials of brick and concrete shifts the way they function in the home,” explains Brett Ward, general manager of International Marketing at Brickworks Building Products. 

He continued, “Allowing for vibrant greenery to grow across a concrete path, or giving a horizontal brick pattern vertical flair completely transforms otherwise rudimentary outdoor and indoor spaces.”

GB Masonry’s OpenForm pavers and Vertico range have become part of the extensive lineup at Brickworks, a global leader in building materials. 

Founded in the 1930s as an association for brickyard owners, Brickworks has since expanded to offer over 2,000 products under 17 different brands. 

In recent years, the company introduced Australia’s first carbon-neutral brick, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability throughout its renowned product collections.

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BioPak has announced a partnership with Baskin-Robbins Australia, aimed at transitioning the ice-cream brand towards more sustainable packaging and waste management solutions.

The new collaboration will help Baskin-Robbins avoid approximately 604,745 kilograms of fossil fuel plastic each month, with one of the most notable changes being the replacement of the iconic pink plastic spoon. 

The spoon will now be made from FSC-certified birchwood, offering a sustainable alternative without compromising the brand’s signature colour, BioPak said in a news release. 

Beyond packaging, the partnership extends into community and environmental efforts through BioPak’s Give Back Fund. 

Since joining forces, Baskin-Robbins has helped plant 22 trees with Rainforest Rescue, donated 493 meals with OzHarvest, and positively impacted 378 lives through MedEarth, showcasing a broader commitment to social responsibility.

Gaurav Sharma, head of Commercial for Baskin-Robbins Australia, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership, emphasizing the company’s long-term dedication to sustainability.

“Transformation is now embedded in our everyday culture, and BioPak has proven to be a mature, stable, and invaluable partner in our packaging journey,” Sharma stated. 

“Despite the common perception that sustainability increases costs, we successfully reduced packaging expenses across all items through innovation and collaboration. This achievement would not have been possible without BioPak’s dedicated support, enabling us to make smart decisions and leverage economies of scale.”

BioPak CEO Gary Smith expressed pride in the partnership, emphasising the shift toward compostable alternatives.

“We are incredibly proud to work with Baskin-Robbins Australia on making this switch to compostable alternatives,” Smith said. 

“As more companies make a conscious effort to put the planet first, what we are continuing to see is a ripple effect for the wider industry. Our products become more accessible, helping to bridge the gap and get one step closer to building circular solutions in the food service industry.”

In addition to sustainable packaging, Baskin-Robbins is working with Compost Connect to enhance its organic waste stream management, ensuring that compostable packaging and food waste are collected and converted into nutrient-rich compost.

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Merck, a leading science and technology company, announced a shift in its cold-chain shipping practices for its Life Science business in Australia. 

Effective 1 September, the company will transition from traditional expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation to wool-pack insulation. 

This change is expected to replace approximately 300 cubic meters, or 3.6 tons, of non-recyclable EPS annually, the company said in a media release.  

The wool-based packaging has been validated for one-day shipments of pharmaceutical products, even under the demanding conditions of the Australian summer.

Rebecca Lee, managing director at Merck Life Science Pty Ltd, emphasised the importance of this move, stating, “By moving to wool- and fibreboard-based insulation for cold-chain shipments, we offer our customers sustainable packaging solutions without sacrificing our customary one-day transit time.”

She added, “This transition reflects Merck’s dedication to reducing our environmental footprint and promoting a more sustainable value chain.”

The wool- and fibreboard-based insulation, produced by Planet Protector Packaging, eliminates the use of EPS in shipments that require temperature regulation between 2°C and 8°C. 

Additionally, the company plans to reduce waste further by printing packing labels directly onto the fibreboard boxes, eliminating the need for separate labels.

According to Merck, this initiative marks a first for its operations in the Asia-Pacific region and underscores the company’s commitment to sustainability. 

It directly supports Merck’s SMASH Packaging strategy, which aims to systematically improve the sustainability of both new and existing packaging as part of the company’s broader sustainability objectives.

Merck has set ambitious sustainability goals for the coming decades, which were approved by the Science Based Targets initiative in May 2022. 

These include advancing human progress for over one billion people through sustainable science and technology by 2030, fully integrating sustainability into all value chains by 2030, and achieving climate neutrality and reducing resource consumption by 2040.

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Lanotec, the Australian leader in protective maintenance and degreasing products, has introduced a fresh new look for its entire product line.

The new packaging design, which features the distinctive Lanotec green and the tagline “Natural—Environmental—Sustainable,” is now rolling out to retailers across Australia.

The rebranding effort aligns with Lanotec’s expansion last year, which saw the addition of multiple new specialist formulations to its range. 

The updated design not only unifies the product lineup but also highlights Lanotec’s commitment to using lanolin—a natural substance derived from sheep wool. 

Lanolin’s exceptional protective qualities are leveraged to outperform traditional petrochemical-based spray lubricants.

According to the company, its products are recognised for their durability and environmental benefits, with multiple items receiving the prestigious Global Green Tag certification. 

This certification, prominently displayed on the new packaging, underscores the green credentials of Lanotec’s offerings.

The product range includes the MPX Multi-Purpose Lubricant available in various sizes from 100mL to 5L bulk packs, and the new X-Range, featuring EGX electrical-grade lubricant and MGX marine-grade lubricant. 

Other notable products include Steel-Seal, a high-performance corrosion inhibitor, and the Anti-Spatter welding protector.

Lanotec’s traditional core range includes the General Purpose formulation and Heavy Duty lubricants, while the new Citra-Force organic industrial-strength cleaner is designed to tackle tough cleaning jobs without streaking. 

productis available in sizes from 300g aerosols to 20L packs.

For more information on Lanotec’s full range of products, visit www.lanotec.com.au.

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