Eumemmerring Business Park in Dandenong South, Victoria, has made history as the first industrial project and second overall to achieve certification under the Green Star Buildings rating tool.
The development, spearheaded by Goodman Group, has been awarded a 5-Star Green Star rating, representing Australian excellence in sustainable construction.
When Goodman acquired the former electrical parts site in 2019, they envisioned transforming the 1970s industrial complex into a beacon of modern sustainability.
The project’s success hinged on a circular design approach, which aimed to revitalise the aging site into a cutting-edge, resilient business precinct.
A key aspect of this transformation was the decision to retain and repurpose two existing office pods.
These structures were integrated into a new state-of-the-art office building, connected to warehouse operations via an aerobridge.
This innovative approach not only preserved finite materials and minimised waste but also significantly reduced upfront embodied carbon, a crucial factor in sustainable construction.
Eumemmerring Business Park boasts an impressive array of sustainability features:
- A 999kW solar system
- 14 EV chargers with infrastructure for future expansion
- 40kL rainwater tanks
- Smart irrigation systems
- Low water use plants, including native species
- 15.81 per cent reduction in upfront carbon and 30.81 per cent reduction in whole-of-life carbon
- All-electric facilities
- 99.6 per cent diversion of construction waste from landfill
The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) has lauded this achievement.
GBCA CEO Davina Rooney stated: “Eumemmerring Business Park is a shining example of what’s possible when industry leaders like Goodman Group prioritise sustainability. As the first industrial project to be certified under Green Star Buildings, it’s not just meeting expectations, it’s redefining them.”
Emma McMahon, General Manager of Sustainability — Australia at Goodman, emphasised the importance of this recognition, stating: “Being one of the first organisations to be awarded this rating recognises the commitment made by the business to reduce our environmental impact and support the long-term viability of the communities we operate in.”
Eumemmerring Business Park exemplifies how thoughtful design and a commitment to circularity can breathe new life into old structures, creating sustainable, future-ready business environments.
The project not only focused on environmental sustainability but also prioritised the health and well-being of staff and customers, incorporating improved natural lighting, increased fresh airflow, and outdoor spaces.
This groundbreaking development sets a new standard for sustainability in the industrial sector, demonstrating that with innovative thinking and commitment, even traditional industrial sites can be transformed into beacons of environmental excellence.