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Month: June 2025

S2E1 – Material Circularity Indicators w/ Steve Porter

Posted on by Sarina Aguinaldo

Description:

Welcome back to Infrastructure Connections, the podcast where we explore what makes sustainable infrastructure work, brought to you by the Infrastructure Sustainability Council. I’m your host, Seth Scott. And hooray! We made it into Season 2.

This season we’re exploring Circularity and the role it plays in infrastructure. What better way to start off than by looking at the circularity metrics of steel, a product that is virtually 100% recyclable. Nearly half of all steel is used in the infrastructure and construction industry, things like bridge beams and reinforcing bars and mesh, and much of the rest is used on what uses infrastructure, the planes, trains and automobiles. So today we’ll be talking about steel with Steve Porter of Infrabuild.

Steve is Head of Sustainability, Innovation & Trade at InfraBuild Australia, Australia’s largest integrated manufacturer and supplier of steel long products. He’s spent most of his career as a General Manager in the steel industry, and he is committed to shaping a sustainable, low-carbon future in energy intensive environments. We discuss circularity initiatives in the steel industry, initiatives like the Electric Arc Furnace which allows phenomenal recycling of scrap metal using renewable energy. We also look at how Material Circularity Indicators (MCI) can enhance EPDs for customers.

For even more information, InfraBuild collaborated on the ISC Impact Notes on the Circular Economy, which you can find here: https://www.iscouncil.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Circular-Economy-Impact-Note_Final-for-Publication.pdf

ISC Member Update from the CEO – June 2025

Posted on by Reshma vallabhaneni

Industry Insights and Reflections from Australia, New Zealand and Beyond 

Earlier this year, S&P Global published their report on how organisations can advance their sustainability strategies while navigating an increasingly fragmented world – highlighting the need to focus on measurable impact, cross sector collaboration and innovation solutions. The ten megatrends identified reflect very much our mid-year context: 

  1. A challenging new policy landscape and continued geopolitical uncertainty. 
  2. The clean energy transition struggling between policy and market forces. 
  3. Worsening climate hazards alongside more stringent disclosure standards shining a light on adaptation. 
  4. A recognised large climate finance gap – alongside practical solutions which may drive private mobilisation. 
  5. Global carbon markets gaining momentum. 
  6. Companies, policymakers and other stakeholders taking more concrete measures to tackle nature in tandem with climate. 
  7. An increased pressure on sustainable supply chain management practices. 
  8. Tension over what constitutes a just and equitable energy transition and who pays. 
  9. The need to balance AI’s energy use against its utility as a climate tool. 
  10. Push for consistent and comparable sustainability reporting alongside concerns about heavier reporting burdens for companies. 

Focus on Workforce 

Workforce is a core element of the Social Agenda in the infrastructure and sustainability sectors. One which the ISC has increased focus on in our rating tools, our capability building work and our external programs.  

The recent WEF Future of Jobs Report (2025) highlights how the above global megatrends – individually and in combination – are among the major drivers expected to shape and transform the labour market by 2030.  Report themes relevant to infrastructure sustainability include: 

  • Green infrastructure is a top priority, driven by climate change mitigation efforts and the push toward net-zero emissions. The report signals significant job growth in areas such as renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable construction practices. 
  • Smart and sustainable energy systems—including renewable energy, energy storage, and grid modernisation—are reshaping infrastructure development and job demand. 
  • Digital infrastructure expansion (e.g., broadband, data centres, smart cities) is essential for enabling sustainable practices and remote work, reducing urban congestion and emissions, whilst also presenting related sustainability challenges, e.g energy water use. 
  • Environmental stewardship and green skills are among the fastest-growing competencies, reflecting the integration of sustainability into infrastructure planning and operations. 
  • Public and private investment is increasingly directed toward sustainable infrastructure projects, such as green buildings, clean transport, and circular economy systems. Goals in infrastructure sustainability will likely require strategic collaboration and partnerships between governments, private sector stakeholders, and communities.  
  • Workforce reskilling is critical, as demand for roles like sustainability specialists, environmental engineers, and green construction experts outpaces supply. ‘Over 39% of workers’ core skills are expected to change’ – with analytical thinking, creativity, and technological literacy becoming critical. The need for leadership in managing interdisciplinary, cross-functional teams will grow as sustainability becomes integral to project delivery. 
  • AI and automation are being leveraged to optimise infrastructure efficiency, reduce waste, and support predictive maintenance in sustainable systems. Increased adoption of AI and ‘Big Data’ will influence how projects are planned, executed and operated. 
  • Social Equity & workforce inclusion – potential for workforce displacement with increasing adoption of automation & technological changes. Raising the question for sustainability leaders, what are the social impacts to an equitable transition. 

City Rail Link (CRL) Social Outcomes 

City Rail Link, a major Auckland IS rated metro project, has made positive social impacts through training, employment, social innovation and supporting the future workforce. As the project nears completion, CRL has released the City Rail Link Social Procurement Case Study which shares their approach to social procurement, and highlights positive impacts experienced by Māori and Pasifika businesses, the reality of the challenges, insights for future tenders and stories from six of the 83 Māori and Pasifika businesses contracted. 

Some of ISC’s workforce initiatives:  

Other recent insights – finance, nature, circularity and AI 

The Australian Sustainable Finance Action Plan 2025-2027 sets out 26 priority actions for the next three years to support reduced emissions, climate resilience, protecting and restoring nature, First Nations economic self-determination and financial inclusion and community resilience. Listen here to Kristy Graham on our Infrastructure Connections podcast to learn more. 

A recent BCG report, Landing the Economic Case for Climate Action with Decision Makers, sets out the economic case for climate action—and how we can make it influence decisions today. 

The Growing Resilience report from WRI and the World Bank developed in collaboration with the African Development Bank, demonstrates how projects rooted in nature-based solutions are gaining momentum in sub-Saharan Africa. 

BSI has released a new standard for nature inclusive marine structures. PAS 1401:2025 covers how to plan, design, install, monitor and decommission marine structures to include nature-inclusive design, thus promoting biodiversity and resilient ecosystems. 

Resource use and waste generation in Aotearoa New Zealand: filling (some) gaps has been published by the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment, including challenges and opportunities for the infrastructure sector. It highlights that food, housing, infrastructure and mobility account for 72% of overall natural resource use.  Around 60% of the resources consumed in New Zealand were extracted overseas and imported, and data suggests this trend has increased over recent decades.  

ABC News article (May 20), AI is driving data centre growth — and it’s bringing environmental challenges, highlights the projected growth of data centres driven by AI, and the associated challenges relates to energy and water use. More action needed here. 

Perth Airport: Championing Sustainability in Aviation Infrastructure

Posted on by Sarina Aguinaldo

Overview

Perth Airport’s Terminal 2 Apron Expansion and Aviation Support Precinct (ASP) project had a focus on delivering sustainable aviation infrastructure. This notable initiative marks a significant milestone as the first Australian airport project to earn an Infrastructure Sustainability (IS) Essentials Design Rating. This achievement highlights Perth Airport’s commitment to sustainability and resource efficiency, and the standards of its property development business, Skyfields by Perth Airport.

Project at a Glance

  • Name: Perth Airport Aviation Support Precinct and Terminal 2 Apron Expansion
  • Owner: Perth Airport Pty Ltd
  • Delivery partners: GHD Pty Ltd, West Coast Civil
  • Scope: Expansion of Terminal 2 apron for increased aircraft parking, new gatehouse, associated roads, and Aviation Support Precinct
  • Timeline: Commenced May 2023, completion expected May 2025
  • IS Rating: IS Essentials Design Rating (IS v2.1): Bronze

Enhancing the Airport’s Capacity and Efficiency

Perth Airport is undergoing a major transformation, consolidating all commercial air services into a unified Central Airport Precinct, enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and improving the passenger experience. The new Aviation Support Precinct delivered by Skyfields will house essential services like in-flight catering, aircraft and equipment maintenance, and freight facilities. The Terminal 2 apron expansion will also boost aircraft parking capacity to meet growing demand from regional and resource-based charter operations.

 

To view the full case study, click here.

IS v2.1 Design & As-Built Rating Tool & Verification Workplans in 2025

Posted on by loren.blundell@iscouncil.org
As we move into the second half of the year, momentum continues across both the Verification and IS v2.1 Review workplans. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to the progress so far.
Verification Workplan Update
We’re pleased to share that the verification process is entering its finalisation phase, with verifiers now being formally assigned to projects. This marks a significant milestone in operationalising the new system and ensuring consistency across projects.
IS v2.1 Review Workplan Update

The technical manual is currently in its final stages of preparation and remains on schedule for the release of the “For Review” version in August. This edition will be released as IS v2.2 and will be made available for a four-week public consultation period, during which stakeholders are invited to review the content and provide feedback.

The manual will be accompanied by a summary of changes and guidance to support users in navigating the updates. An industry briefing is also being planned to walk through the key changes and provide clarity on implementation. Once published we’ll be actively encouraging feedback from across the sector. This is a key opportunity to ensure the final version reflects the needs and insights of our stakeholders. Additionally, approval has been granted to screen projects under $500 million for both IS v2.1 and IS v2.2, helping to streamline the verification pathway for smaller-scale projects.

What’s Next

  • Finalise verifier assignments
  • Prepare for the release of the v2.2 manual and accompanying resources
  • Confirm details for the upcoming industry briefing
  • Implement screening and support for projects under $500m

Thank you again for your continued engagement and support. Your contributions are shaping a more robust and responsive IS Rating Scheme.

 20 June 2025
As we approach the mid-year mark, both the Verification and IS v2.1 Review workplans are progressing steadily, supported by strong engagement across the sector.
Verification Workplan Update

We’ve commenced trial verifications using the new process and are establishing robust systems to support its implementation moving forward. Communications have also begun with current ratings projects to assist them in transitioning to the new process. 

In parallel, we’re working closely with verifiers to assess their current and future workloads, helping determine their involvement in upcoming projects. 

IS v2.1 Review Workplan Update

Significant work is underway behind the scenes to consolidate the updated credits into a single, comprehensive technical manual. This manual will be made publicly available, along with a summary of changes to each credit. 

Credits with substantial updates have been reviewed by a diverse group of sustainability professionals—including proponents, contractors, and consultants. All feedback is being carefully reviewed and summarised. Encouragingly, the majority of responses indicate strong support for the proposed changes. A sincere thank you to everyone who has contributed to this important review. 

What’s Next 

We’re currently working through the wide range of feedback received and preparing the technical manual for public display. 

We’re excited to share the progress made and to mark this important milestone—stay tuned for more details soon. 

Thank you once again to everyone who has contributed so far. Your input continues to shape the future of the IS Rating Scheme. 

22 May 2025 
As we approach the mid-year mark, both the Verification and v2.1 Review workplans continue to progress steadily, with strong engagement from across the sector.
Verification Workplan Update
We’re pleased to share that we’ve officially onboarded the first member of the IS Quality Control (IS QC) team. This is a key milestone in building the internal capability needed to support consistent and efficient verification across all projects. Additionally, roles will be filled internally and we are working with the team to move them across.
IS v2.1 Review Workplan Update
The macro review of credits continues to advance, with this month marking the second round of feedback from the Technical Working Groups. Their ongoing contributions are helping to refine and clarify the credit structure, ensuring it remains practical and relevant.
We’ve also had strong involvement from projects already using the v2.1 credits, whose insights are proving invaluable in shaping the next iteration of the tool. This feedback is being used to inform the technical manual updates.
What’s Next
We’re currently working through the best way to respond to the wide range of feedback received to date. Our goal is to ensure transparency and clarity in how feedback is addressed and incorporated.
Planning is also underway for our official launch event in August 2025. We’re excited to share with the community the advancements we have made and mark this important milestone—stay tuned for more details soon.
Thank you again to everyone who has contributed to the process so far. Your input continues to shape the future of the IS Rating Scheme.
5 May 2025
The Verification and v2.1 Review work plans have still been continuing to be developed with fantastic feedback from our stakeholders.
Verification Workplan Update
The Verification and the Base Case Proposal and Materiality Assessment Procedures have been almost finalised and can be viewed using these links below.
We have updated the Base Case Proposal form, which has received excellent feedback from a small group of stakeholders. This will be updated and shared on ISAP Resources shortly. The revised form has streamlined the requirements for the base case and will reduce the workload for this stage of the process.
IS v2.1 Review Workplan Update
The macro review of credits is well underway, with all of the credits to be reviewed and updated by the end of May. Following the credit review process, the team will be working on updating the technical manual with changes, amending the credit summary forms and scorecards. These updated resources will be shared on ISAP Resources and made available to projects.
In response to the feedback received so far, we have begun detailed credit reviews with significant help from sustainability professionals, including contractors, verifiers, and consultants experienced with the v2.1 Rating Tools.
This detailed review will be ongoing to ensure the ISC effectively responds to stakeholder feedback as it arises. Thank you to all those who provided feedback via our consultation process. The feedback gathered has been utilised to guide and inform the development of material and the steps in this work plan. We look forward to sharing further information in our next update.

10 April 2025

The Verification and v2.1 Review workplans have been progressing well and are on track for a full roll out in August 2025.

Verification Workplan Update
The Verification and the Base Case Proposal and Materiality Assessment Procedures have been reviewed by the Verifiers, this feedback is currently being reviewed and incorporated into both documents.

During the initial consultation there were some risks identified by proponents, Verifiers and contractors. Below is a high-level summary of these risks, along with the way these risks have been addressed.

1. Consistency and Efficiency in Verification
• Risk Identified: How would the proposed changes improve consistency and efficiency in the verification process?
• Response: Employing a small, internal team that works across all materiality, base case and submission verification tasks will ensure a greater level of coverage and consistency as this will be their dedicated role. As such the ISQC team will be aware of the current state of play across all projects undertaking an IS Rating. Significant investigations were conducted to ensure these measures improve quality, credibility, and efficiency.

2. Implementation Details and Clarity
• Risk Identified: Concerns about potential delays and lack of detailed information, plus transparency and clear communication of expectations and requirements.
• Response: As discussed above there is a transparent, external-facing verification procedure outlining functions and resolution pathways, currently under review which addresses all of these concerns.
3. Qualifications and Expertise of ISC Quality Controller
• Risk Identified: Concerns about the qualifications and experience of the IS Quality Controller to fulfill their role effectively.
• Response: Part of the Verification Procedure will have the required skills and experience for the Verifier and IS QC. The IS QC will be part of a team with extensive experience in infrastructure delivery, verification, and project management, ensuring they have the necessary skills, tools and support.

4. Capacity, Turnaround time and Resources to Handle Workload
• Risk Identified: Concerns about ISC’s capacity to handle the increased workload and whether sufficient resources were allocated to ensure no delays in the process.
• Response The IS QC Roles will be additional to the ISPM’s and Regional Leads. During the development phase the expected workload was forecast with the resourcing for the IS QC role planned accordingly.

5. Conflict Resolution and Process Clarity
• Risk Identified: Concerns about the conflict resolution processes if there are differences of opinion.
• Response: The Verification Procedure outlining functions and resolution pathways, accompanied by existing informal and formal appeals procedures to handle disagreements.

IS v2.1 Review Workplan Update
Each of the different options are continuing to be developed further with some key tasks getting close to completion.
The recommendation for screening of credits ($100m-$499m) has had excellent feedback and is close to being finalised.

The macro review of credits has started strongly with initial feedback on proposed changes being sought from various Technical Working Groups this week. This includes a summarised form of the credit to allow for greater clarity.

The ISC detailed review of specific credits has started with significant help from sustainability professionals, including contractors, verifiers and consultants, who have experience in using the v2.1 tool.

The feedback that we have received so far has been excellent and has helped guide the steps in the process. We look forward to sharing more information as we continue the journey.

27 March 2025 – Update

As we move further into the year there is still plenty of work being undertaken in the IS Verification and v2.1 Review workplans.

Verification Workplan Update

The Verification and the Base Case Proposal and Materiality Assessment Procedures have been drafted and are currently with the Verifiers for their consideration. Once feedback from Verifiers is received, we will update and share the procedures more broadly for further feedback. These procedures also address some of the risks and opportunities that were identified from the stakeholder engagement.

Work has also commenced on the draft job descriptions for the new IS Quality Controller roles (IS QC) that will be needed to deliver the proposed changes.

IS v2.1 Review Workplan Update

A reminder that we are still requesting feedback on the recommendations that were made in the roundtable on 7 March 2025.

The macro review of credits has commenced, and a selection of draft credit reviews will be first shared with the IS Technical Working Groups next month prior to a wider review.

Lastly the engagement and feedback that we have received so far has been excellent and has helped guide the steps in the process. We stay committed to continuous engagement with our passionate sustainability community in order to improve our Rating tools and how they can be applied broadly.

IS v2.1 Review Workplan Measures & Feedback Links
Measure 1 – Screening process for V2.1 projects between the values of $100m-$500m.

Measure 2 – Fast-tracked Rating Tool Review – Macro level changes

Measure 3 – On-going IS v2.1 Technical Manual Review – Detailed technical improvements

Measure 4 – Create Additional Rating Tool Pathways/ Rating Badges

7 March 2025 – Update

IS v2.1 Design & As-Built Rating Tool & Verification Workplan Update – Webinar Recording & Feedback Links

A big thank you to all that were able to join the ISC Verification & IS v2.1 Workplan Update Webinar today. It was a good opportunity to share with the industry our progress on the continuous improvement work that we have been doing.
As discussed, we will respond collectively to the questions raised in the webinar, and we are also eager to gather your feedback on the proposed improvement measures tabled today. This can be done by filling out the following forms which will be open until the end of March 2025. It is important that you include your contact information so that we can ask for clarification if required.
The webinar is available in full via the link below and in addition we have split up the sections of the webinar which address the four IS v2.1 rating tool improvement measures which we are currently seeking feedback on.
IS v2.1 Review Workplan Measures & Feedback Links
Measure 1 – Screening process for V2.1 projects between the values of $100m-$500m.

Measure 2 – Fast-tracked Rating Tool Review – Macro level changes

Measure 3 – On-going IS v2.1 Technical Manual Review – Detailed technical improvements

Measure 4 – Create Additional Rating Tool Pathways/ Rating Badges

4 March 2025 – Update

As we go into autumn the ISC is continuing to work through our plans to gather your feedback, develop and implement changes to how we do business. 

Verification Review 

Thank you for all of the comprehensive feedback that we received on the proposed changes to the verification process. ISC will soon respond to that feedback to our stakeholders.  

V2.1 Review 

Later this week, the ISC will present, and start to gather feedback on, a number of proposed changes to the v2.1 Rating Tools. . Information on ISC’s proposals will be shared through the following forums: 

  • Webinar – Join us for a webinar on the 7th of March and hear from the team on where these workplans are up to. This session will be recorded and made available on the IS Council website following the conclusion of the online event. If you are unable to tune in live, we suggest that you still register by clicking here to ensure that you receive a copy of the recording.  
  • Technical Working Groups – within each of the existing Technical Working Groups, the ISC will be talking about the v2.1 Workplan and recommendations developed. 

At the conclusion of these events, the ISC will provide links to information on the proposed changes, as well as details for how you can provide feedback. 

Note that the V2.1 feedback portal for detailed credit level recommendations is still open and we encourage all sustainability professionals that are familiar with our v2.1 Rating tools to contribute where possible. We will keep this feedback open until the 21st of March. 

V2.1 Feedback: https://forms.monday.com/forms/11f9830774b79ea418160010bacab258?r=use1  

17 February 2025 – Update

ISC is continuing to develop and refine what we are implementing to address our stakeholders concerns across our tools and processes in both our Verification workplan and our review of v2.1 Rating tools. There are a number of ways that we would like to get your involvement at the moment.

Webinar

Join us for a webinar on the 7th of March and hear from the team at the Infrastructure Sustainability Council on where these workplans are up to. This session will be recorded and made available on the IS Council website following the conclusion of the online event. If you are unable to tune in live, we suggest that you still register via the link here to ensure that you receive a copy of the recording.

Verification Proposal

We received and collated feedback from across the Ratings/verification value chain for over 10 months to enable use to develop two significant changes to the verification process that are being proposed as part of the Verification Workplan. The first round of targeted stakeholder consultation has been completed and we are now broadening the feedback opportunity to all impacted by or engaged with IS Ratings.

Details can be found by clicking here. 

Verification Feedback

We apologise for the tight timeframes and if you have feedback, please complete our questionnaire below by Monday 24th February. Given the significant input into the process to-date, we hope that our framing resonates with the majority of you, albeit that we always expect there to be a divergence of views.

Click here to provide feedback.

IS v2.1 Review

As part of our review of the ISv2.1 Ratings tools we have considered a significant amount of both high and detailed stakeholder feedback. We are committed to continuing on this basis and would like to invite the industry to provide detailed feedback at credit level for areas they have identified opportunities for improvement. We encourage all sustainability professionals that are familiar with our v2.1 Rating tools to contribute where possible. We will keep this feedback open until the middle of March.

IS v2.1 Design & As-Built Rating Tool – Click here to provide feedback
IS v2.1 Planning Rating Tool – Click here to provide feedback

3 February 2025  – Update

It has been a busy couple of weeks as the ISC has continued to work on both the verification workplan and the review of v2.1 plan.

As part of the verification workplan, two key recommendations have been communicated to relevant stakeholders. This consultation process will continue for several weeks and will help highlight any risks or opportunities from those recommendations. These will be carefully considered in the next step prior to the final recommendation being determined. This will also impact other actions including updating documentation and processes as part of the key outcomes.

With regards to the review of v2.1 the ISC team has undertaken a multi-criteria analysis to compare and contrast possible process improvements. This has been done to ensure that the recommended improvements are well analysed and reviewed. These recommendations are in the process of being finalised and reviewed internally. Some of the key technical stakeholder engagement will be closely focussed on projects, ISAPs and teams that have been practically involved with delivering a v2.1 Ratings.

We look forward to sharing more details and having a wider range of stakeholders involved as we continue along this improvement journey.

15 January 2025  – Update

Over the past year ISC has sought and received extensive feedback across all our activities, particularly in relation to the v2.1 Design and As-Built Rating, and our Verification processes more generally. This feedback has been collated through individual workshops, interactions with projects, annual feedback survey, high level meetings, CEO workshops and others.  ISC would like to thank everyone for their time and insights. This has enabled us to consider how we are working with our stakeholders to ensure we are achieving our purpose. In response to the feedback, we have identified key areas for improvement and we have developed detailed workplans and proposals that we will be bringing to market over the coming months.

Positively, we heard that the market continues to see value in the role that the ISC and the IS Ratings tools play in driving sustainability outcomes across Australia and New Zealand. This was balanced by feedback regarding the v2.1 Rating Tool that highlighted concerns around a misalignment between the assessment of processes versus outcomes; the administrative burden associated with delivering an IS Rating, and questions about perceived value for money in application of an IS Rating. In addition, issues were raised regarding verification process and outcomes, including inconsistency of verification; extended timeframes; and inflexibility of verification approach.

In response to this feedback from our members and stakeholders, we have two key streams of work. They are:

–              Updates to v2.1 Rating tool
–              Verification process updates

As these streams of work progress, we will provide regular updates on outcomes through our communication channels, including ISC newsletter and direct mail. We will seek additional contributions on the implementation of the workplan items through targeted stakeholder engagement at particular project phases. The first phase of implementation stakeholder consultation will commence in February 2025.

As valued members and stakeholders of the ISC, we look forward to engaging with you collaboratively and ensuring that our tools and processes are up to date and fit for purpose.

ISC appoints Kris Fumberger as its Executive Director of Product Solutions

Posted on by loren.blundell@iscouncil.org

ISC is delighted to announce the appointment of Kris Fumberger as its new Executive Director of Product Solutions. This new role for the ISC has been created to elevate ISC’s infrastructure ratings and associated offerings and to lead the digital transformation of the business.

Commencing 1 July 2025, Kris joins ISC from the advisory firm, Ricardo. He brings over 20 years of leadership across sustainability, ESG advisory, and digital product innovation. Kris has a strong track record of delivering measurable environmental impact, influencing strategy at senior levels, and scaling sustainability initiatives that shape industries.

At RightShip, Kris led the transformation of the organisation from a safety-first model to an ESG-centric digital platform, building award-winning climate tools such as the GHG Rating and Maritime Emissions Portal. The GHG Rating portal, used by over 180 entities globally, was developed to provide a sustainability rating for as-built ships in a similar way to the IS Rating Scheme.

More recently, at Ricardo and ANZ Bank, Kris developed sectoral decarbonisation pathways, managed climate disclosures in line with TCFD and ISSB, and advised on ESG risks and opportunities for infrastructure, water, and energy clients across Australasia.

Toby Kent, CEO of ISC, says: “This is a critical appointment for the ISC at a pivotal moment in our organisation’s evolution. I am delighted that we have secured someone with Kris’s experience and pedigree to drive the enhancements to our offerings that we need to bring to market. Kris is both commercially minded and personable and I think our members and team will respond really well to his leadership.”

Jeremy Stone, Deputy Chair of ISC, says: “ISC has much to be proud of and a terrific legacy to build on. The appointment of Kris, in particular, and other changes at ISC are setting us up for a really strong future.”

Kris Fumberger says: “What excites me most about this opportunity is ISC’s influence in shaping infrastructure outcomes that align with global sustainability goals. I see immense potential in further digitising and scaling the IS Rating Scheme, drawing on my experience in product leadership and stakeholder engagement to unlock new insights from data, develop complementary offerings, and enhance member value.”

 

Djarindjin–Lombadina Water Treatment Plant  Upgrade: Sustainable Infrastructure for Healthy Country

Posted on by Sarina Aguinaldo

The Djarindjin and Lombadina communities on Western Australia’s Dampier Peninsula have long faced challenges in accessing safe, reliable drinking water. Previously reliant on a diesel-powered system, both communities will benefit from a planned upgrade that combines essential infrastructure with cultural respect, community development, and environmental responsibility.

As the first pilot of the IS Essentials rating on a remote water asset, the Djarindjin–Lombadina Water Treatment Plant Upgrade has demonstrated that sustainability is achievable at any scale. Led by Water Corporation WA, this project demonstrates how small-scale regional infrastructure can deliver lasting outcomes for people and Country.

Project at a Glance

  • Name: Djarindjin–Lombadina Water Treatment Upgrade
  • Owner: Water Corporation WA
  • Delivery Partners: GHD (Design), Kimberley Regional Service Providers (Operations)
  • Scope: 3 new bores, raw water transfer main, solar-powered water treatment plant,  1.26 ML storage tank and gravity main to existing town infrastructure
  • Timeline: Start 2022, est. completion 2026
  • IS Rating: IS Essentials Design – Bronze
  • Population Served: ≈ 390 residents

Why an IS Essential Rating Was Pursued 

Water Corporation chose the IS Essentials Design & As Built pathway to:

  • Drive and be able to quantify sustainability benefits often overlooked in smaller remote projects.
  • Build in-house capability for delivery of IS Ratings using a hybrid delivery model: Water Corporation led delivery of the governance, economic and legacy IS Rating credits while GHD focused on the water use, resource efficiency and energy credits.
  • Contribute  feedback to help refine and shape the final version of the IS Essentials Rating Scheme from a water industry perspective

 

To view the full case study, click here.

Water Case Study Webinar

Posted on by Reshma vallabhaneni

This information session explores how the IS Rating Scheme supports sustainable outcomes in water infrastructure projects. It features two leading case studies that highlight innovation, resilience, and community impact.

1. Malabar Biomethane Project
Presented by Jarad McInnes, this pioneering initiative by Zinfra and Sydney Water is Australia’s first project to inject biomethane into the gas network. By converting biogas from wastewater into a renewable energy source, it exemplifies circular economy principles and sustainability embedded from design through to operation.

2. Djarindjin-Lombadina Water Treatment Upgrade
Presented by Anita Kilibarda, this project modernizes critical water infrastructure for remote Aboriginal communities in Western Australia. It ensures long-term water security, improves service reliability, and demonstrates how culturally sensitive, sustainable infrastructure can support community wellbeing.

Case Study

The session also includes a brief insight into Nature Positive solutions, emphasizing the importance of enhancing biodiversity and natural ecosystems through water infrastructure planning.

Access the presentation slides here

Click the link below to watch the full recording:

https://youtu.be/K6JP7mLxXFc

IS for Future Executives

Posted on by Reshma vallabhaneni
The sustainability challenges we face today demand leaders who can do more than advise — they must influence. Whether you’re aiming for the C-suite or already there, strategic leadership requires more than technical expertise. In this webinar, we explored three key mindset shifts needed to succeed in executive roles — watch the recording below to discover how to make sustainability central to business leadership.
Presentation – here
Webinar recording – here