May 2026
Achieving measurable sustainability outcomes that meet or exceed regulatory requirements is a top priority for Queensland-based steel fabricator Brown Steel.
Contracts and compliance manager Carly Goddard says SSA certification has helped Brown Steel realise its sustainability goals, at minimal cost and disruption to the company.
“SSA certification has strengthened our sustainability credentials and compliance with Green Star project requirements; improved supply chain traceability, ensured steel is from verified suppliers that meet Green Star standards; and increased our operational efficiency while reducing waste,” Carly says.
Brown Steel compliance manager Carly Goddard.
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The Coffs Harbour Cultural and Civic Space - called Yarrila Place...one of the many Brown Steel fabrication projects.
“Staff engagement and awareness of sustainability practices have also been boosted, as well as our competitiveness in winning sustainable Green Star projects enhanced.”
Brown Steel has completed three large scale government infrastructure projects that require Green Star compliance: Brisbane Metro Depot, Aeromedical Hub (Brisbane Airport) and Coffs Harbour Cultural and Civic Space.
Carly said the majority of the company’s steel is sourced from steel producers participating in the Worldsteel Association’s Climate Action Data Collection Programme, and most suppliers are SSA-verified and ISO 14001-certified, and have products with environmental product declarations (EPDs).
She says there is a strong focus at Brown Steel on local sourcing to reduce transport-related emissions. “Operational energy efficiency improvements have been substantial at the company, with more than 80% of workshop lighting upgraded to energy-efficient LED systems and 30% natural lighting achieved through skylights, with ongoing transition to full LED coverage,” Carly says. “We have tracked reductions in energy use but it is hard to quantity cost savings with electricity prices as they are.”
New welding machines and whirly bird roof ventilation to be installed will reduce energy use and improved air quality for 2026 Responsible Procurement. Carly said the MWh and CO2 saved would be a KPI for this year.
“There is strict implementation of equipment shutdown procedures outside operating hours, with fuel and emissions monitoring including monthly tracking of fuel and gas consumption, and quarterly trend analysis to identify opportunities for reduction.”
Waste reduction and circular economy outcomes at Brown Steel sees 100% of steel and cardboard waste recycled (internally or externally). There is a continuous review of consumables to minimise packaging and landfill waste.
Carly advises companies seeking SSA certification to ensure strong internal commitment to sustainability practices across their teams. “Work closely with your suppliers; success requires cooperative partners who are willing to align with SSA documentation requirements. Treat the process as a journey that will require monthly if not daily, maintenance and monitoring.” Details: https://www.steel.org.au/industry-directory/brown-steel/