ACCIONA has recently partnered with Melbourne Zoo to repurpose vegetation cleared from the Monash site in Melbourne, Victoria, providing enrichment for animals as part of early works for the Suburban Connect project.

Andrew Kovacs, Sustainability Manager, said the collaboration reflects ACCIONA’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

“While the projects key focus is on reducing carbon emissions – opportunities like this, driven by the site and environment teams are a great way to partner with community organisations," Mr Kovacs said

"It's a simple but meaningful outcome to support Melbourne Zoo,” he said.

As part of preparations for major construction at the new Monash station box, ACCIONA and Suburban Connect began early site clearing in line with environmental approvals. Rather than sending removed trees to landfill or mulch, the team identified an opportunity to support animal care programs at Melbourne Zoo.

The Zoo welcomed the delivery of pittosporum branches, which are now used as enrichment for a range of species, including Jabari, a male hamadryas baboon.

The initial truckload quickly expanded into multiple deliveries, with the vegetation benefiting several enclosures.

Enrichment materials such as fresh foliage play a vital role in animal wellbeing, encouraging natural behaviours and providing sensory stimulation.

The reuse of site vegetation reduces waste while supporting the Zoo’s animal care objectives.

The partnership demonstrates how small-scale sustainability actions can generate broader community and environmental benefits and aligns with ACCIONA’s circular economy principles, which prioritise reuse and resource efficiency across all project phases.