Stockholm Metro expansion: Nacka and Sofia access tunnels

The potential of BREEAM Infrastructure in tunnelling projects is exemplified by the Stockholm Metro's extension, particularly the Nacka and Sofia projects. Awarded CEEQUAL Version 5 – Whole Team Awards: Excellent, these projects showcase how sustainability can be prioritised in urban infrastructure development. The Nacka and Sofia extensions achieved significant carbon emission reductions, comprehensive waste management strategies, and water conservation efforts, setting new standards for sustainability in metro construction. As Martin Hellgren, Head of Department South, Stockholm Extended Metro, said, "The Stockholm Metro expansion is a sustainability project where a dividend on the investment comes when we are finished and the trains start rolling."

Oslo's water treatment system: preparatory works

Similarly, the preparatory works for a new water treatment system in Oslo, crucial for the city's resilience, were awarded a BREEAM Infrastructure Version 6 – Excellent rating. The project boasted a 36.7% decrease in embodied carbon emissions (2,310 tonnes of CO2 equivalent) and an impressive 99.8% of waste diverted from landfills (546.57 tonnes). This substantial reduction in embodied carbon emissions, coupled with a pioneering approach to material use in tunnel support, significantly reduced costs and construction time.

Bergen's Haukeland Holdeplass, part of the Bybanen light rail system's expansion, marked a milestone as the first underground station in the network, achieving a BREEAM Infrastructure Version 6 – Very Good rating. The project achieved a 33% reduction in embodied carbon emissions (1,350 tonnes of CO2 equivalent) and diverted 68.8% of waste from landfills (2,640 tonnes). These achievements, along with innovative resource management, led to reduced material costs and accelerated project timelines.

The role of third-party certification in promoting sustainable tunnelling

Third-party certification systems, such as BREEAM Infrastructure, play a crucial role in promoting sustainable practices in the tunnelling industry. By providing a standardised framework for assessing and benchmarking the sustainability performance of tunnelling projects, BREEAM Infrastructure enables stakeholders to make informed decisions and prioritise sustainability throughout the project lifecycle. The independent verification process ensures the credibility and transparency of the sustainability claims made by project teams, enhancing the trust and confidence of clients, investors, and the public.

Aligning with ESG principles and UN Sustainable Development Goals

The adoption of BREEAM Infrastructure in tunnelling projects aligns closely with the principles of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing. By demonstrating a commitment to sustainable practices and reducing the environmental impact of tunnelling activities, projects that achieve BREEAM Infrastructure certification can attract ESG-focused investors and funding. 
The implementation of BREEAM Infrastructure standards contributes directly to the achievement of several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), particularly SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). By aligning with these global initiatives, the tunnelling industry can demonstrate its commitment to creating a more sustainable and resilient future. 

Driving the transition to a low-carbon future

As the world transitions towards a low-carbon future, the tunnelling industry has a significant role to play in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the impacts of climate change. The widespread adoption of BREEAM Infrastructure standards in tunnelling projects enables this transition by promoting the use of low-carbon materials, renewable energy sources, and innovative design and construction techniques. 
By embracing sustainable practices and third-party certification, the tunnelling industry can contribute to the global effort to combat climate change and create a more sustainable built environment for future generations.

Visit the BREEAM Infrastructure website today to learn more about how you can transform your tunnelling projects and contribute to a greener, more resilient future. - BREEAM Infrastructure - BREEAM