The new Melbourne Convention Centre (MCC) claims to be the most sustainable centre in the world. CEI Asia spoke with Leigh Harry, MCC’s chief executive, to find out more about its credentials.

How is the new MCC different from other convention centres?
The new MCC is the world’s first and only ‘6 Star Green Star’ convention centre. The environmental rating is based on a mix of initiatives that reduce overall energy use and promote recycling instead of relying on non-renewable resources. The green building’s innovative sustainable design and operational features ensure that the comfort of delegates and protection of the environment go hand-in-hand.

The ultimate aim is to make the lowest possible impact on the environment. MCC has set an environmental benchmark for the industry, becoming the only convention and exhibition venue in Australia with both Green Globe and Waste Wise accreditation.

Why did MCC do this?
There is an increasing interest both locally and internationally in relation to green credentials. Delivering an environmentally friendly solution at a competitive price is a significant market advantage for MCC.

What are some of MCC’s new features?
Effective air flow with high indoor air quality at low energy consumption, natural light in the foyer and pre-function spaces, a solar hot water system that provides more than 40 per cent of facility requirements and 100 per cent of public requirements.

MCC also features the first privately funded black-water treatment plant in a public building in Australia. The treatment plant receives ‘black’ water from the building’s sewer systems and rainwater collected from the roof. After being treated, the water can be used for toilet flushing, cooling towers and watering the parks and gardens. This saves 20 per cent of water inside the building and 100 per cent of water from outside of it.

Radiant slab heating and cooling in the foyer (with pipes in the concrete floor carrying hot or cold water to heat or cool the slab) provides a more comfortable internal environment with pleasant temperatures.

MCC also uses FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) timber, which is environmentally friendly, rather than nonrenewable timber. MCC also offers a sustainable food menu that uses local food products as well as on-site composting for food waste.

Clients can also purchase green power for their event, which means equivalent power usage is purchased from a renewable energy source.