ESG
Sustainability – A Circular Economy Asset
Not only does Space Labs Australia create sustainable and cost-effective high-rise VMC buildings. We are providing a sustainable circular economy asset.
Source: Waste Generation.Buildings. 2021; 11(12):622.
Source: CSIRO (2017), DCCEEW (2022), Ellen Macarthur Foundation (2024), Hickory Building Systems, Loizou L, Barati K, Shen X, Li B. Quantifying Advantages of Modular Construction
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
According to Australia’s National Waste Report 2022 (prepared by The Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water) construction and demolition (C&D) waste has more than doubled in the past fifteen (15) year period, with this trend likely to continue. C&D waste can be reduced by early waste management measures including source reduction or reducing the use of materials, and salvaging waste materials for recycling. The ability to reuse or repurpose building elements or complete buildings is another measure to reduce C&D waste.
Through off-site manufacturing Space Labs Australia can significantly reduce waste when compared to traditional construction methods. This is because the design is finalised to a greater resolution prior to commencement of the works, and building components are manufactured in a controlled factory environment, which allows for more precise measurements and efficient use of materials.
Additionally, factory generated waste can be captured in controlled circumstances closer to the source to enable better access for recycling than traditional construction where waste is directed to landfill.
Modular buildings are incredibly versatile and can be repurposed, extending their lifecycle and reducing environmental impact, through their ability to be disassembled and reassembled in different configurations.
VMC offers a more sustainable and efficient approach to building, by significantly reducing waste, enabling access to recycling, with the option to dismantle modules at the end of the building lifecycle for repurpose when compared to traditional construction methods. This makes it an attractive option for addressing environmental concerns in the construction industry.
Our Deliverables
The circular economy represents “reduce, reuse, recycle” principles for whole of life, making efficient use of finite resources:
Social Responsibility
Space Labs Australia is committed to the promotion of ethical social responsibility, including sourcing materials from organisations that treat their employees fairly, aim to provide an inclusive workplace which fosters diversity.
Freecity Group’s Herring Road development at Macquarie Park will be Australia’s Tallest VMC development once completed in 2026.
Freecity is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating, and once operational a WELL for Residential Certification.
“As global cities become ever more attractive places to live, it will become necessary to harness the benefits of volumetric modular construction to deliver more homes, more quickly, and to higher standards of quality and sustainability. As leaders in the design of volumetric modular housing, HTA are excited to be working with Space Labs and other like minded developers and manufacturers, to advance expertise in modular design around the world”.
