a)         As a practice we are working on residential projects that achieve ‘Code of Sustainable Homes’ Level 3 or greater. This is in advance of current mandatory levels.

 

b)         We understand the need to collaborate with BREEAM Assessors on non residential projects in order to carry out environmental assessments that will ensure a high environmental performance on existing and new buildings. We understand the need to include sustainable elements in our projects to achieve a high score on the BREEAM system. (BRE Environmental Assessment Method)

 

c)         We can assist our private residential Clients in satisfying the Local Authority Planning requirements for production of 10% energy production on site for new buildings in collaboration with Energy/SAP Assessors.

 

c)         We have researched and utilised various systems and technologies with the aim of reducing energy use. We have installed rainwater harvesting, woodchip burners, ground and air source heat pump systems, in recent projects. 

 

d)         We encourage environmental awareness where practical such as:

 

-Using materials from local, sustainable sources.

-Designing buildings that can be adapted, expanded and changed in use in future.

-Recycling materials from demolished buildings.

-Having Site Waste Management Plans in place on projects with a value of £300,000 or more.

-Considering the solar orientation of new build projects.

-Considering sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) on new projects.

-Considering Green roofs to encourage biodiversity and to assists on drainage by retaining rainwater, while delaying runoff and removing pollutants from the remainder.

-Specifying Solar hot water panels to be incorporated on the south facing roofs to supplement the hot water system.

-Specifying Low energy lamps (CFL’s) fittings to be used where possible.

-Specifying Dual-flush toilets and water-saving showers.

-Choosing materials with a long lifespan and low maintenance.

-Choosing porous ground materials as opposed to hard landscaping to ensure adequate drainage.

 

e)         We also co-operate with other design team members to ensure that environmental matters have been considered and implemented.

 

f)          Wherever practical, we select materials which are less damaging to the environment. For example, we specify glass wool insulation that is manufactured using 80% recycled post-consumer glass from a variety of sources that would otherwise go to landfill.

 

Our sustainable approach at our work place

 

a)         We aim to increase awareness of current environmental matters among all employees.

 

b)         We are active members of the Loseley Park Recycling group and by recycling our paper, plastic and can waste have reduced by half our weekly landfill rubbish.

 

c)         Were possible we use recycled paper.

 

d)         Our used ink cartridges are given to the Chase Hospice Charity who recycle them to raise funds.

 

e)         We try to reduce petrol miles by combining site visits on projects that are close to each other.