The longest green track in Australia is being used to provide a sustainable alternative for the first stage of the Parramatta Light Rail project in New South Wales.
Stage 1 of the Parramatta Light Rail will connect Westmead to Carlingford via the Parramatta CBD and Camellia with a two-way track spanning 12 kilometres, and is expected to open in 2024.
The green track features grass and vegetation, and has been applied between and along 930m of rail tracks, reducing concrete by 81 per cent compared to a standard concrete embedded track form.
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Compared to a concrete-embedded track form, the green track absorbs heat reducing the air temperature in the area, minimises noise and glare, filters stormwater, reduces flooding and encourages biodiversity.
The grass species chosen for planting in the green track was selected through a 12-month study and trials that compared grasses to the rate of growth, climate suitability, growth height and species’ lifespan, amongst other characteristics. Following the study, ‘Nara’ Zoysia, a native species to Australia.
CPB Contractors Group Manager Sustainability, David Fox said the green track exemplifies opportunities in the use sustainable materials.
“This initiative demonstrates how a collaborative approach and commitment to sustainable delivery between contractors and clients can achieve positive legacies for the community and environment that extend many years beyond project completion,” Fox said.
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