Australian Govlink Issue 3 2016 | Page 60

56 SUSTAINABILITY Tonsley Innovation Precinct contribution to Circular Economy Principles Sustainability is the cornerstone of the Tonsley Innovation Precinct and the ‘World Leading’ 6 Star Green Star - Communities certification is recognition of this. The heart of the redevelopment is the adaptive re-use and innovative refurbishment of the original 11 hectare Mitsubishi Main Assembly Building (‘the MAB’), which incorporates retail outlets, eateries, public space and meeting areas, shared services and education spaces. Flexible, modular and pod-based tenancies will also attract and provide a unique setting for small and medium-sized organisations to operate, taking advantage of the re-clad roof structure, which provides the optimum environmental characteristics for a range of future uses. A foundation design concept for the MAB has been the use of shared facilities to create an environment which increases efficiency, lowers operating costs and encourages collaboration between people. GOVLINK » ISSUE 3 2016 The adaptive re-use of the MAB has prevented the loss of approximately 90,000 tonnes of carbon emissions embodied in its original construction, equivalent to taking 25,000 average cars off the road for one year. Two purpose-designed open roofed internal forests provide attractive amenity, while also regulating air temperature in the building by acting as ‘chimneys’ during periods of warm weather. The Tonsley Innovation Precinct redevelopment is being delivered by Renewal SA for the Government of South Australia. Tonsley is a truly integrated precinct that has everything from tertiary education and industryfocused research through to commercial operations and start-ups and soon will see the start of the residential development with over 800 dwellings and 1200 residents. Just 20 minutes from North Terrace, Tonsley is being linked to the world through SABRENet and GIG City. www.tonsley.com Twitter: @tonsleysa