Plus Architecture are committed to becoming a more environmentally-friendly design firm
At the start of 2020, Plus Architecture joined over 500 other architectural firms to pledge our commitment to sustainability as part of the Architects Declare movement. So far, Plus Architecture’s Sydney, Melbourne and Perth studios are committed with the others set to join soon.
Here are a few of the initiatives we have implemented so far:
Going carbon neutral
Reducing our office’s internal operations through implementing 100% green power, conducting a carbon audit, streamlining office air conditioning units and other initiatives.
Increasing staff awareness of more eco-friendly methods and options both in the office and at home.
Encouraging staff to use public transport/walk/ride to work rather than driving (aside from Covid-19 constraints).
Researching ‘Red List’ materials to better understand them and their alternatives
Introducing a new clause in our ODW to restrict use of ‘Red List’ materials and advise builders they should avoid such products and materials in construction.
Eventually we will aim to include resources and alternatives to as many of the Red List items as possible – to make substitution easier for builders.
Developing a checklist for basic passive design / sustainable design principles
This will eventually form part of our design, documentation and Quality Assurance processes.
Developing a presentation package for early-stage client presentations to inform and encourage clients on the benefits of zero-/ low-carbon developments
Hopefully, this will eventually also include cost-based information e.g. concrete vs timber structure comparisons, low-carbon/part-recycled concrete vs virgin concrete and others.
We look forward to updating this list as we progress along this journey towards environmental sustainability.