Our proposed transformative approach to Melbourne motorways will create ecological buffers and corridors.

As ‘ecological buffers’ the new system will protect local residents and drivers from noise and air pollution, as well as improve their mental and physical well-being.

As ‘ecological corridors”, this system will encourage biodiversity with its native and low maintenance vegetation. It will address the urban “Heat Island Effect” and improve the livability of our suburbs.

Our team of experts, including architects, soundscape designers and researchers from RMIT University, have begun researching a modular system (Figure 1 and 2) that will involve retrofitting existing motorways’ sound barriers to meet the following outcomes:

1. Reducing Air Pollution: Through increased native vegetation to absorb CO2 and other emissions from cars. Also by using renewable energy, such as adding solar panels to power lights on motorways, adjacent parks and paths.
2. Reducing Noise Pollution: By adding an innovative noise transformation system to an existing noise barrier, works by converting disruptive motorway noise into more pleasant, gentle sounds.
3. Improving Liveability: Through the reintegration of biodiversity, increased vegetation and noise reduction. The new transformed noise barrier aims to provide shelter for the community and protection from rising temperatures.These outcomes are all in line with Vic Roads Sustainability and Climate Change Strategy 2015-2020 (VicRoads, 2016).

‍Dr. Jordan Lacey | Research Fellow in the School of Architecture and Design RMIT

Mrs. Nadine Samaha | Principal Architect level-ak, LEED Green Associate, Sustainability Lecturer RMIT