Sustainability

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Dams and hydro infrastructure have played a significant role in nurturing past civilizations and societies by connecting nature, energy, and long-term collective human effort. As we move to a more sustainable future, hydropower must reprise that nation-building, nature-enhancing role.
The integration of community engagement and social value considerations in transport planning leads to more holistic and effective solutions, creating a future where transport networks are not only environmentally sustainable but also enhance the well-being of our communities.
In preparation for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games planning discussions have commenced between all levels of Government, Brisbane City Council and the International Olympics Committee.
The construction industry plays a considerable role in global energy consumption and energy-related carbon emissions, attributed to the manufacture of building materials and products. The current, linear ‘take-make-dispose’ model of resource consumption has led to environmental degradation and resource depletion.