At Ventia, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do, driving positive impacts in the communities we serve. This commitment is exemplified by Sustainability Manager Heidi Dumesich, whose work on the Sydney Roads Asset Performance (SRAP) contract in Sydney’s west has earned her the Emerging Leader Award at the 2024 Infrastructure Sustainability Council Gala Awards.  

Heidi’s recognition reflects her unwavering dedication to sustainability, collaboration, and proactive leadership. David McPadden, General Executive for Ventia Transport, praises Heidi’s genuine passion: “Heidi’s advocacy for sustainability is admirable, and her operational ‘hands-on’ role enables her to make a difference with projects on the ground. We are very invested in developing our emerging leaders at Ventia, and Heidi is a perfect example of why we believe so strongly in it.”

Pioneering Sustainability Initiatives

Heidi’s multifaceted approach to sustainability has led to the development and deployment of significant initiatives, including the use of renewable diesel, alternate electric equipment, and sustainable asphalt mixes for road construction. These efforts have notably reduced the environmental impact of these projects. Additionally, Heidi has enhanced sustainable procurement practices and introduced new lighting assessments.

Advocacy and Public Engagement

Beyond her professional duties, Heidi co-hosts the podcast “Life on Planet A,” exploring sustainability, environmental issues, and global challenges. She also hosted the Ventia podcast series ‘Going Beyond,’ interviewing internal and client stakeholders about sustainability in asset management.

Heidi’s dedication extends to her volunteer work with Climate Writers, where she advocates for stronger sustainability policies by writing climate letters to members of parliament. Her efforts include addressing Australia’s methane measurement problem and advocating for a levy on fossil fuel polymer production to reduce plastic waste. This volunteer work underscores her commitment to influencing government policy and driving systemic change.

As a respected voice in the industry, Heidi is often invited to speak at events, such as the SIM PAC Sustainable Manufacturing conference in Brisbane. Through her advocacy and public engagement, Heidi educates a broader audience and inspires positive change in how people and organizations approach sustainability.

“From her creation of a sustainability podcast in collaboration with customers, members of the ISC and other stakeholders, to her work rolling out key sustainability initiatives on the contract, Heidi really brings her passion for making change to everything she does,” says Alex Monson, Ventia’s GM of Sustainability.

Driving Positive Change

Heidi has significantly impacted the SRAP contract by contributing to several key sustainability initiatives. This nine-year asset management contract covers the western corridor of greater Sydney, some of the initiatives include:

• Renewable Diesel: By introducing renewable diesel, the contract has reduced its carbon footprint by an estimated 4% annually.
• Crumb Rubber in Road Construction: This initiative promotes recycling and reduces landfill waste by using tyres that would otherwise go to landfill. An average job on SRAP uses 1,500 tonnes of asphalt, diverting 1,500 tyres from landfill and extending the road surface lifespan.
• Energy-Efficient Lighting: Heidi led the installation of 183 lighting sensors in the project office, reducing energy consumption by 79 kW per year and operational costs by around $9,866.
• Sustainable Procurement: By enhancing sustainable procurement requirements, Heidi ensures that the contract’s operations align with high sustainability standards, influencing clients and suppliers to adopt more environmentally friendly practices.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Her emphasis on stakeholder engagement through survey requirements has created a more inclusive decision-making process, leading to better community-focused outcomes and building trust between Ventia and the communities it serves.

David McPadden acknowledges Heidi’s ongoing contributions: “Heidi’s knowledge-sharing across multiple transport contracts at Ventia embodies our values of collaboration and integrity. Ventia has been maintaining critical infrastructure for over 40 years, and we take a very long-term view of the impacts we have.

Heidi’s impact is one of innovation, leadership, and advocacy. Her work has set new standards, inspired others, and will continue to influence sustainability practices and policies.