Pioneering sustainability in logistics
The logistics expert Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics (WWL) owned Melbourne International RoRo and Automotive Terminal (MIRRAT) is testament to how it is working to reduce its environmental impact.
In 2016, MIRRAT received the highest sustainability rating from the Green Building Council of Australia for the way the terminal was designed and constructed.
Romilly Madew, the council’s chief executive officer, said: “As Australia’s largest automotive terminal, MIRRAT has set a high bar for sustainability. Such a rating can only be achieved through steadfast commitment to sustainability and leadership.”
Green Star is a holistic rating system that assesses projects across nine environmental impact categories including energy, water, emissions and innovation.
A 6 Star Green Star rating represents ‘world leadership’ in sustainable design and construction. While 181 Green Star buildings (13.4% of all certified projects) around Australia have achieved 6 Star Green Star ratings, MIRRAT achieved ratings for both design and construction.
Ms Madew said that she was particularly impressed with the use of a Remote Area Power System – a pioneering system that used batteries, solar panels and a biodiesel generator to power site offices during construction. She called this an Australian first which is contributing to market transformation in Australia.
She said: “A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. By demonstrating transparency and accountability for the sustainability of its buildings, MIRRAT sends a clear signal to suppliers what it will and won’t accept when it comes to sustainable products and processes. This creates a ripple effect.”