Responsibility

Catalysing
the
transition
to
a
regenerative
future

Sustainability has always been part of our DNA. It began with our namesake – the Snowy Mountains Hydroelectric Scheme, one of history’s most ambitious renewable energy and water infrastructure projects. 

 

Commencing in 1949, the scheme took 25 years to build and involved more than 100,000 people from 30+ countries. It delivered renewable energy and a secure water supply to a growing nation, transforming Australia’s energy future and laying the foundations for SMEC. Today, the Snowy Scheme supplies over 30% of renewable energy to Australia’s eastern grid. Its legacy continues to guide us. 

Acting
sustainably
is
not
only
our
responsibility
-
it’s
our
privilege

We have the opportunity and obligation to shape infrastructure that delivers technical excellence and long-term positive impact. When sustainability is embedded from the earliest planning stages, it strengthens outcomes for our clients, our communities, and the planet. 

 

This commitment comes to life through innovative, real-world applications. On the Logan Enhancement Project, we integrated fauna underpasses, land bridges, and rope bridge crossings to support safe wildlife movement and preserve biodiversity. On the M1 Upgrade: Varsity Lakes to Burleigh Interchange, we led with circular economy principles — pioneering Australian-first techniques like concrete fracturing to cut emissions and using recycled materials such as green steel. These are just a few ways we’re helping shape a more sustainable future through infrastructure.

Our
Sustainability
Mission

We are proud to align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Surbana Jurong Sustainability Charter, which sets out a bold ambition: 

 

To catalyse the transition to a regenerative future. 

 

This mission reflects the integrated nature of sustainability, spanning the environment, people, communities and economies. It is structured around six Charter-aligned focus areas.

Charter Focus Area
 
Key SDG Alignment
Our Commitment
Nature
 
SDG 13: Climate Action
SDG 15: Life on Land
Our Commitment:
We embed climate action, ecological resilience, and nature-based solutions into every project.
Life
 
SDG 3: Good Health and Wellbeing
SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
Our Commitment:
We ensure our infrastructure supports healthier, safer environments for people and communities.
Society
 
SDG 5: Gender Equality
SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Our Commitment:
We engage communities deeply and design with equity and inclusion at the core.
Knowledge
 
SDG 4: Quality Education
SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Our Commitment:
We invest in capability building and share knowledge to scale impact.
Economy
 
SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth
SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
Our Commitment:
We support circular economy principles and sustainable value creation.
Built Environment
 
SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
Our Commitment:
We design future-proofed infrastructure for thriving, regenerative urban environments.

Leading
Change
Through
Projects

From legacy-defining hydro and some of the world’s most ambitious clean energy programs, to local community initiatives we are proud to be designing and delivering the infrastructure of tomorrow.

Our
vision
for
catalysing
a
regenerative
future

From reshaping cities through inclusive transport to reimagining energy and water systems with circular thinking, SMEC is helping create infrastructure that not only serves today’s needs but also safeguards tomorrow’s world. Explore some of our thought leadership where we are driving sustainable change across the globe. Dive in to see how engineering goes beyond construction and becomes a force for connection, equity, and resilience. 

Looking
Ahead

The Snowy Scheme reminded us that vision, collaboration, and courage can shape a nation. Today, our work spans more than 40 countries but our commitment remains unchanged: to engineer positive change, together. 

 

As we look ahead, sustainability remains our guiding light just as it was at the beginning. We invite our clients, partners and communities to join us in shaping a more sustainable future.

 

 

 

Ready
to
connect?

Discover how SMEC can enhance the delivery of your next project.