Sustainability at the core
Sustainability underpins the delivery of Light Rail Stage 1 (LRS1) and Stage 2A (LRS2A), shaping how Canberra Metro designs, constructs and operates the network.
It is integral to achieving safe, efficient and high‑performing outcomes that deliver long‑term value for Canberra.
Canberra Metro is focused on maximising positive environmental, social and economic outcomes while actively managing and minimising impacts across both construction and operations. This commitment is supported by strong governance, ethical practice and a clear focus on delivery certainty.
Sustainability considerations are embedded into every stage of decision‑making, from procurement and design through to construction and ongoing operations. By proactively identifying opportunities to improve performance, Canberra Metro is delivering practical, measurable sustainability outcomes that create lasting benefits for the community and the environment.
Key Commitments and Objectives
- Support the ACT Government’s Active Travel initiatives by encouraging greater use of public transport and enabling safe, connected walking and cycling networks.
- Drive continuous improvement in sustainability performance across design, construction and operations.
- Embed environmental, social and economic considerations into procurement and supplier engagement.
- Deliver tangible community benefits, including improved safety, accessible design, public art and high‑quality transport amenity.
- Optimise resource efficiency across design, construction and operations.
- Mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change.
- Achieve carbon neutrality for Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions.
- Minimise potable water use, materials consumption, operational energy use and construction‑related embodied carbon.
- Influence subcontractors and suppliers to adopt sustainable practices.
- Integrate sustainability into day‑to‑day decision‑making, supported by a culture of continuous improvement.
Sustainability in Practice
Canberra Metro continues to embed these practices in all stages of the project, ensuring that light rail delivers sustainable transport, environmental leadership, and positive social and economic outcomes for Canberra.
Stage 1 achieved a Leading rating from the Infrastructure Sustainability Council of Australia (ISCA) with 88 points, making it one of only seven Australian projects to reach this level.
100% of electricity for light rail vehicles, maintenance, and administration buildings comes from renewable sources.
Solar panels on the depot, solar-powered lighting, and regenerative braking in vehicles reduce energy demand.
Rainwater harvested along the 12 km corridor is used to irrigate landscaping, supporting urban greenery.
Track construction used lightweight glass fibre reinforcement instead of traditional steel, cutting material use and embodied carbon.
Vehicles are designed with recyclable, eco-friendly materials and dedicated bicycle spaces to encourage low-emission travel.
Resources
Download our Sustainability policies and related reports.