In an era when the need for urgent action to combat climate change has never been more apparent, finding practical and effective ways to reduce carbon emissions is of paramount importance.
According to Paul Huggins, Managing Director of Cushman & Wakefield New Zealand, while the scale of the challenge may seem daunting, making tangible changes to our physical environment can offer surprisingly accessible and impactful solutions.
“At Cushman & Wakefield, we have embraced this philosophy and are actively engaged in transforming the built environment to benefit the future ecology of Aotearoa New Zealand.
“Through a series of initiatives, we are spearheading the shift towards sustainability, advocating for changes that will make a meaningful difference in our carbon emissions footprint. By reimagining traditional approaches and harnessing the latest technologies, we are not only mitigating environmental harm but also setting a precedent for others to follow suit”.
One of Cushman & Wakefield’s key endeavours involves supporting our clients through replacement solutions for gas-fired systems with Hot Water Heat Pumps. By making this switch, our clients are significantly reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and embracing a renewable energy source.
“The environmental benefits of such a change are manifold, as we simultaneously lower carbon emissions and contribute to the transition to a greener future. It is heartening to witness the positive impact that these relatively simple modifications can have on our planet,” said Mr Huggins.
He went on to say another avenue Cushman & Wakefield is exploring is the design and installation of solar systems to supplement traditional power transmission methods. “By capitalising on the sun's abundant energy, we can reduce our dependency on electricity generated from non-renewable sources. Not only does this initiative decrease our carbon footprint, but it also allows us to tap into a clean and sustainable power source. Our commitment to embracing solar power is a testament to our belief in the transformative potential of eco-conscious choices.
“To address the carbon emissions associated with our fleet, we have taken a proactive approach by installing electric vehicle (EV) charging points. By facilitating the adoption of EVs among our staff, we are reducing direct emissions while simultaneously encouraging the wider adoption of electric mobility. Our efforts extend beyond individual actions; they ripple outward and have a cascading effect, ultimately leading to a more sustainable transportation ecosystem.
“Equally important is the focus on indoor environmental quality, where we have leveraged advanced sensor technology to measure air quality and occupancy levels. By gaining deeper insights into these parameters, we can inform the design and configuration of our workspaces for optimal efficiency and employee well-being.
“By creating healthier and more sustainable environments, we not only improve productivity and satisfaction but also contribute to a greener future” he said.
Making these changes to the physical environment is not only feasible but also crucial in the collective battle against climate change.
By embracing new technologies, such as smart monitoring and CMMS technology, solar panels, and EV infrastructure, companies can reshape the built environment to align with the principles of environmental stewardship.
