Green buildings and sustainable cities – news and views

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The finalists of the Victorian Premier’s Sustainability Awards have been announced, with individuals and organisations in the fields of sustainable construction materials, affordable green energy solutions, creative social enterprises, and environmental rehabilitation projects, commended for their hard work and dedication towards sustainability.

The 2022 Premier’s Sustainability Awards reflect the current focus of sustainability in Victoria and around the globe. They cover a range of categories including circular economy innovation, future energy, sustainable places and destinations, and waste and litter reduction.

Partners in the awards are Banksia Foundation, Keep Australia Beautiful, and Sustainability Victoria, on behalf of the Victorian government. 

Out of the 41 finalists, standouts were Durra Panel, Monash University’s Clayton Campus Water Harvesting Loop, and Fungi Solutions.

A finalist in the circular economy innovation category, Durra Panel, creates panels for wall cladding and ceiling linings made from compressed wheat straw. They’re fire resistant, durable, and apparently have excellent acoustic and thermal benefits. They’re also 100 per cent recyclable and 100 per cent biodegradable.

Monash University’s Water Harvesting Loop scooped a spot in the thriving environment category, for a water capture and reuse system that has enabled under-utilised stormwater to be accessed from a Melbourne Water drain running under the university campus. This has increased the existing tank capacity of 3.9 million litres, and reduced reliance on rainwater.

Also in the circular economy innovation category, Fungi Solutions is a biotech start-up that uses fungi to recycle organic waste and transform it into sustainable circular packaging solutions. Since the material is mushroom-based, it can be composted after use to improve soil health.

So far, the start-up has rescued 888 kilograms of local waste, capturing 2250 kilograms of carbon and generating additional revenue streams for local producers. It also connects local waste producers with local businesses looking for sustainable packaging solutions.

Sustainability Victoria’s interim chief executive officer Matt Genever said he was buoyed by the strides being taken across industry and the community towards a more sustainable future.

“The standard of entrants was exceptional and it was pleasing to see there are so many individuals, communities and organisations across Victoria that are committed to encouraging long-term sustainability.”

“Our finalists are making significant contributions to our state’s circular economy transformation and supporting a net zero-emission future for Victoria.”

“Sustainability Victoria is proud to celebrate those who are leading the way in sustainable solutions.”

The community champion award will recognise individuals and small organisations, while the industry leader award will celebrate medium and large organisations driving a sustainable future.

Winners will be announced at an in-person awards ceremony on 20 September.

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