dot
18.10.21

On Architecture puts green foot forward

A leading Kent architecture practice has been awarded The Carbon Footprint Standard in recognition of it becoming carbon neutral.

On Architecture’s team, which operates from offices in Canterbury, has successfully demonstrated its commitment to improving its environmental performance.

An independent and in-depth assessment by Carbon Footprint Standard showed the firm had successfully implemented measures to reduce year-on-year carbon emissions, is committed to improving future performance and has achieved the necessary standards.

The standard is internationally recognised for companies who want to demonstrate their low carbon credentials. The report measured the firm’s energy usage and greenhouse gas emissions, and found that:

• 52.5% was generated by On’s office-based activities
• 22.1% by its staff homeworking
• 21.3% by work-related rail travel
• 4% by other activities

The survey showed that an individual working in an office was more energy efficient than if they were working from home. As a result, On expects its environmental performance to improve over the next few months as the business emerges from lockdown.

Luke Harrison, Director at On Architecture, said: “The environmental performance of the buildings we design is improving all the time thanks to the use of new materials and construction methods.

“Reducing our energy consumption and becoming carbon neutral makes commercial sense for our business and helps improve the long-term environment. As a firm, we want to reduce our carbon footprint and create healthy spaces in which to work and live.”

On Architecture currently operates a fleet of six electric vehicles, including one pool car for staff site visits. Following the survey, the firm is already in discussions with its landlord about switching to green energy providers and implementing further energy saving measures.

On is offsetting its carbon emissions by improving its energy performance and also funding carbon dioxide saving measures elsewhere. The company’s annual 18 tonnes of carbon emissions has been offset by supporting a tree planting project in the South East of England.

Achieving the Carbon Footprint Standard builds upon On Architecture’s existing ISO 14001 environmental management certification.

To find out more about the Carbon Footprint Standard, visit Carbon Footprint.