Australia’s net-zero aim is a high-level goal that sets the stage for industry-specific changes, especially in the infrastructure and construction sectors. Both rely a lot on diesel-powered heavy machinery, making them significant contributors to overall emissions and key areas for decarbonisation efforts. This new environmental focus is driving a fundamental “rethink” in how equipment is procured, shifting the decision from being purely cost-based to value-based.
The global building sector accounts for 40 per cent of annual energy-related greenhouse gas emissions, with 27 per cent being operational and 13 per cent being embodied carbon. Operational refers to machinery and building energy use, while embodied carbon comes from the materials used.
Time and budget are no longer the only markers of success. It now includes environmental, social and governance (ESG) criteria, driven by targets like the World Green Building Council’s goal for all new structures to be net zero by 2050.
Australia repurposes 4.5 per cent of its materials, and its Circular Economy Framework aims to repurpose double this figure. This focus on reducing operational emissions and improving circularity directly impacts procurement choices.
However, the traditional, transactional model of procurement is incompatible with meeting complex ESG goals. Here are several companies that provide comprehensive solutions designed to help projects succeed in a net-zero-focused world.
Premier Cranes & Rigging — Cranes and Lifting Solutions
For large-scale infrastructure projects where net-zero targets add complexity, success hinges on strategic partnerships rather than transactional equipment hire. Premier Cranes & Rigging hits the brief by providing project management-led lifting solutions essential for complex projects with sustainability targets.
This entity holds an ISO 14001:2015 certification for environmental management, offering verifiable proof of its commitment to the environment. Its in-house engineering and meticulous lift planning minimise on-site crane time, directly reducing consumption and emissions. Premier Cranes & Rigging also has an integrated fleet and dedicated logistics department to help keep projects on track and on budget.
Komatsu — Earthmoving and Excavation
Komatsu is a global leader committed to sustainability. Its CO2 reduction goals are certified by the Science-Based Targets Initiative, aligning its strategy with the Paris Agreement. It consistently achieves a top-tier ‘A’ rating from the Climate Disclosure Project for Climate Change, which validates its environmental leadership.
This partner offers products like hybrid excavators and Tier 4 Final engines. It’s also been selected as a “DX Platinum Company” in Japan in recognition of its outstanding use of digital technology to transform its operations and business models.
For procurement managers, this highlights a commitment to data-driven efficiency, which is crucial for optimising worksite performance and reducing a project’s environmental impact.
Volvo Trucks — Material Transport and Hauling
Volvo Trucks is actively driving the shift to electromobility in Australia with a complete range of electric truck solutions and a strong local presence. The company has operated electric trucks on the country’s roads since 2021 and offers proven experience in helping businesses decarbonise their logistics and meet sustainability goals.
It offers purpose-built, zero-emission trucks like the Volvo FMX Electric — a robust construction truck — and the Volvo FM Electric for container transport services. Volvo’s electric trucks are already used by companies like JR Stephens and Co., providing real-world proof of their viability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are the answers to common questions about net-zero infrastructure and heavy machinery procurement.
What do net-zero targets mean for construction?
Net-zero means balancing the amount of harmful emissions produced with the amount taken from the atmosphere. For an industry like construction that cannot eliminate all emissions, it means focusing on aggressive and measurable reduction at the source. This typically involves efforts focusing on operational emissions, embodied carbon and energy consumption.
Why is heavy equipment procurement so important for decarbonisation?
Heavy machinery is a primary consumer of fossil fuels on any project site, making it one of the largest sources of direct emissions. The act of procurement is the key intervention point. It’s the moment the project leader can choose a path of lower emissions and higher efficiency over the status quo.
How does a crane hire partner contribute to sustainability?
Beyond the machinery itself, a truly sustainable crane hire partner provides value in the expertise, planning and operational efficiency it brings to a project. One with in-house engineering can create meticulous, computer-modeled lift plans to reduce crane idle time and execute efficient sequences. It may also have a modern fleet with fuel-efficient engines and advanced safety systems, as well as verifiable credentials such as ISO 14001 for environmental management.
Procurement as a Pillar of Sustainable Infrastructure
The net-zero pressure is transforming equipment procurement from a simple cost transaction into a strategic decision. The key lies in choosing partners who provide verifiable, multifaceted solutions. Whether it’s through a crane entity’s meticulous planning or the deployment of electric trucks, the common thread is to switch to smarter and cleaner technology. As Australia moves towards 2050, procurement managers who embrace this partnership model will lead the industry in delivering projects that are successful both financially and environmentally.