Awards 2017

 

CitySwitch National Signatory of the Year 2017

Commonwealth Bank of Australia - winner 

CommBank

CBA is a true standout amongst this year’s award submissions and within the financial sector. They are a smart business who installed energy efficiency before solar PV, have the 100% NABERS rating coverage across their office portfolio and have promoted sustainability to their customers.

National judging panel

CBA rolled out a national Energy Reduction Strategy that has resulted in a 48.5% reduction in their carbon footprint and a 2.0T CO2/FTE from a peak of 5.04T CO2/FTE in 2009. One hundred per cent of their commercial office spaces have completed NABERS energy ratings and solar has been installed across 38 sites equating to a 544kW capacity. CBA also added 15 new retail sites with each tenancy achieving at least a 5 star NABERS Energy rating.

From verifiable energy data, CBA and Bankwest reduced their combined domestic Scope 1 and 2 carbon emissions by 7,213 tCO2-e in 2016, equivalent to taking 1500 cars off the road for a year. Eighty per cent of all Commercial net lettable area (NLA) has been NABERS Tenancy rated resulting in the largest representation of NLA across the CitySwitch program.

 

Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation – Victorian Branch - highly commended

Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation

ANMF shines in their staff communication and change management across sustainability policies and behaviour change. It was a must to recognise their leadership and ambition within the health professional industry. An exceptional project!

National judging panel

Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation - Victoria Branch (ANMF) implemented extensive sustainability initiatives in their move to 535 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne. Their new building features 120 solar panels, hybrid car spaces, end of trip facilities, smart lifts, several internal staircases, energy efficient shading and light systems, in house composting of organics waste and improved recycling streams. ANMF is currently awaiting their accredited ratings with the expectation to meet their 4.5 NABERS energy target and 5 Star Green Star Rating.

Other details of their sustainability initiatives include:

  • Their organic waste composting is powered by solar generation
  • The cafĂ© tenant selected was chosen for its community-minded ethos, it participates in the Pay-it-Forward program, and promotes reusable cup usage
  • Water consumption has been better managed with reduced flush rate toilets and the installation of motion sensor taps
  • ANMF prepared their staff for working in an environmentally sustainable building before relocating and all new employees receive a first day tour with an induction to the environmental features of the building
 

CitySwitch National Partnership of the Year 2017

HFM Asset Management and TSA Group - winner

HFM Asset Management and TSA Group TSA Group

HFM’s leadership, communication, and strong engagement with the CitySwitch program has translated into a robust partnership and positive impacts for the organisations. Exciting sustainability progress!

National judging panel

HFM Asset Management (HFM) and TSA Group (TSA) engaged in an energy saving partnership in July 2016. As part of this partnership HFM undertook a comprehensive Energy Audit of the TSA tenancy in July 2016. Through the identification of energy saving opportunities and implementation of sustainability initiatives TSA is achieving 121,440kWh savings/annum, with a projected $37,646 financial benefit and 1.5 increase in their NABERS Energy Rating to 4.5 stars. HFM also has a 5 star NABERS Energy Rating. The project is being implemented across four TSA sites in Australia and a TSA site in Manilla.

Other details of the project include HAP 24 program being used to model operation of the supplementary AC units, and anew more energy efficient UPS being installed and timers setup on TVs, monitors and desktops to switch off after hours and when not in use.


Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources and Schiavello - highly commended

Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources and Schiavello Schiavello

Fantastic, multi-faceted project with a holistic scope. Very impressive scale and use of cycle analysis software. This innovative project could not go unrecognised!

National judging panel

The Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) relocated to Waymouth Street bringing seven locations into one building with a significant focus on enhancing sustainability, and physical and psychological well-being. DEWNR’s fitout resulted in a 40% reduction in their carbon footprint, with a 448,809kwh annual energy savings. They have a 6 star rating from the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) and are on track to achieve a 5 star NABERS Energy Base Building Rating.

The fitout of Waymouth Street used local labour and construction and as a result waste was not only minimised but more than ninety per cent was diverted from landfill for recycling. Regarding water, the fitout was designed to achieve a minimum 5 Star NABERS Water rating, with predicted annual water consumption being less than half the standard water usage at 3,100kL per annum. The DEWNR tenancy has a whole of life carbon footprint thirty five per cent lower than a business as usual fitout.

CitySwitch National New Signatory of the Year 2017

EML - winner

EML

EML demonstrated exceptional leadership, communication, use of resources and inclusion of government tenders. It’s no wonder they achieved such positive outcomes!

National judging panel

EML successfully implemented an Activity Based Working Environment in their new tenancy fitout, including a more rigorous sustainability policy and energy efficient lighting, appliances and HVAC. EML is experiencing annual savings of $37,000 and higher staff retention rates, with a 5.5 NABERS Energy Tenancy rating.

EML is also about to recalibrate their company-wide recycling program and plans to use CitySwitch’s resources for waste signage and staff engagement.

 
 
 

Australian Taxation Office - highly commended

Australian Taxation Office

The ATO have embraced new ways of working with a new tenancy design that has almost halved their floorspace whilst providing increased amenity to occupants including green walls, smart meeting rooms and flexible break out spaces. They really are demonstrating what great government leadership looks like and the savings that can be made for government and the humble tax payer as a result!

National judging panel

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) have reduced their energy consumption and improved energy efficiencies over the course of 18 months through a refurbishment of their Perth office. Energy savings from the project are being realised at an average rate of 36,400 kWh each month – resulting in a cumulative saving of approximately 145,600 kWh to date. The ATO currently holds 16 accredited NABERS ratings with sixty three per cent of their buildings performing at 4.5 stars or higher.

In order to reduce their energy consumption and improve efficiency, a significant reduction in net lettable area (NLA) was undertaken, downsizing from 22,556m2 to 13,858m2. Indoor environment quality was addressed through the addition of innovative vertical ‘green walls’ on all floors, featuring over three hundred indoor plants which contribute to improved air quality within the building. More modern and efficient technology solutions were implemented within the office – replacing printer-docked electronic white boards with ‘Meeting Mate’ interactive projectors, and simple glass-board alternatives.

 
 
 

CitySwitch State winners under 2000sqm

New South Wales

Norman Disney and Young

Norman Disney and Young
NABERS Energy rating:
Emission savings:
1.09 Tonnes CO 2-e
Key initiatives:
Building energy consumption, travel, paper use and recycling

Norman Disney Young (NDY) carried out a Sydney office refurbishment over 3 weeks that resulted in significant cost savings and energy efficiency. Highlights include: integrated management system tracking their NABERS energy rating each month, a lighting upgrade, improved workspaces such as quiet pods and activity-based working (ABW) desks, end of trip transport facilities and reuse of furniture. NDY achieved a reduction of 1,513 pages printed per person, saved 8,511 kWh, increased staff wellbeing, and maintained their 5 star NABERS Energy rating.

NDY’s Global Annual Report tracks key areas of focus through data collation of building energy consumption, travel, paper use and recycling. Between 2015/16 and 2016/17 financial years, NDY reduced air travel by 1.09 tonnes CO2-e and reduced building energy by 132 kWh per person

NDY’s offices were already pretty efficient, so the additional effort shows genuine commitment to doing something in every box - including employee wellness. A holistic project that demonstrates their consistent hard work and exemplary sustainability commitment.

NSW judging panel

South Australia

 

AMP Limited

AMP Limited
Key initiatives:
Installed full LED panel lighting with zone controls, light harvesting

In late 2016, AMP Limited used an office relocation as an opportunity to transform their Adelaide office to an activity based working environment through an innovative combination of people, space, technology, and sustainability. A strong emphasis on energy efficiency, installing full LED panel lighting with zone controls as well as light harvesting, has resulted in a 70% reduction in lighting energy consumption. In addition to lighting, energy efficient IT equipment supported by a transition to laptops has resulted in a 46% reduction in annual electricity consumption compared to the old office.

To encourage health and wellbeing, AMP has adopted principles of active workplace design including stand up meeting areas, sit to stand workstations, centralised bins, and print stations with secure printing. AMP is a strong supporter of CitySwitch, participating in workshops and sharing report updates across the country. The tenancy is carbon neutral through the purchase of Gold Standard and VCS carbon offsets as part of AMP’s commitment to operational carbon neutrality.

AMP Limited’s well planned and executed relocation strategy, has achieved a 46% reduction in electricity use, carbon neutrality status and wellbeing benefits. They utilise detailed data monitoring and metrics, engage strongly both internally and externally and are strong advocates of CitySwitch.

South Australian judging panel

Western Australia

 

ACORPP

ACORPP
NABERS Energy rating:
Key initiatives:
Improvement in recycling, waste reduction and energy efficiency, indoor environment quality and wellness plan

Determined to set a high standard of commitment and lay a claim to sustainability leadership, ACORPP’s office refurbishment project was carefully planned with clear objectives in mind. Their goals were achieved and even surpassed during the fitout process, with improvements to their recycling and waste reduction, improvement in energy efficiency to 4.5 star NABERS, indoor environment quality and wellness plan including achieving Gold in Healthier Workplaces WA, to create a positive physical environment for staff.

 
 

Victoria

 

Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation – Victorian Branch

Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation Victoria
NABERS Energy rating:
Key initiatives:
120 solar panels, hybrid car spaces, end of trip facilities, smart lifts, energy efficient shading, light systems

Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) implemented extensive sustainability initiatives in their move to 535 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne. Their new building features 120 solar panels, hybrid car spaces, end of trip facilities, smart lifts, several internal staircases, energy efficient shading and light systems, in house composting of organics waste and improved recycling streams. ANMF is currently awaiting their accredited ratings with the expectation to meet their 4.5 NABERS energy target and 5 Star Green Star Rating.

 

ANMF have shown genuine leadership when it comes to sustainability, both in the workplace and across the broader health sector. ANMF are a beacon for its members and truly deserve this accolade - Liam Henderson, former CitySwitch award winner with Baptcare.

Victorian judging panel

CitySwitch State winners over 2000sqm

New South Wales

 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia

CommBank
NABERS Energy rating:
Emission savings:
2.0 Tonnes CO 2-e

Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) rolled out a national Energy Reduction Strategy that has resulted in a 48.5% reduction in their carbon footprint and a 2.0T CO2/FTE from a peak of 5.04T CO2/FTE in 2009. One hundred per cent of their commercial office spaces have completed NABERS energy ratings and solar has been installed across 38 sites equating to a 544kW capacity. CBA also added 15 new retail sites with each tenancy achieving at least a 5 star NABERS Energy rating.

Other sustainability wins:

  • 7 NSW tenancies have with 4 to 5 star NABERS ratings
  • 8 NSW tenancies have onsite solar
  • 5 NSW tenancies with 5 or 6 star Green Star interiors ratings

Commonwealth Bank of Australia have been the quiet achiever for a number of years, chipping away at waste and cranking up renewable production across a terrific breadth of tenancies. They have now reduced emissions by 48.5% on a 2009 baseline and have even set a 2 tonnes per FTE target. We are delighted to recognise these impressive results across their portfolio.

NSW judging panel

South Australia

 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia

CommBank
Key initiatives:
Smart Relay systems and Envizi monitoring systems

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA) has the largest area of NABERS Energy rated office space in Australia, are committed to the national CitySwitch program and are ranked number one in lowest carbon intensity per capita against their peers. Their focus is on reducing the impact of their activities by investing heavily in energy efficiency as a first step followed by on-site renewables. During the 2016/17 financial year, the CBA tenancy at 96 King William Street, Adelaide reduced their energy consumption by over 45,000 kWh (8%) and CO2 emissions by 37 tonnes (12%). By implementing new technology such as Smart Relay systems and Envizi monitoring systems across all tenancies, CBA are leading the way in sustainable practices across Australia.

 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia’s use of monitoring systems to track and benchmark energy data is paying dividends as they are achieving substantial and continual improvements in energy and carbon efficiencies. It is great to see Australia’s biggest bank leading industry and promoting CitySwitch.

South Australian judging panel

Western Australia

 

Commonwealth Bank of Australia

CommBank

Commonwealth Bank rolled out a national Energy Reduction Strategy that has resulted in a 48.5% reduction in their carbon footprint and a 2.0T CO2/FTE from a peak of 5.04tCO2/FTE in 2009. 100% of commercial office spaces have completed NABERS energy ratings and solar has been installed across 38 sites equating to a 544kW capacity. CBA also added 15 new retail sites with each tenancy achieving at least a 5 star NABERS Energy rating.

 
 

CitySwitch State partnership winners

New South Wales

 

Steensen Varming, Charter Hall and The Naked Duck

Steensen Varming Charter Hall
Key initiatives:
Procuring reusable coffee-mugs, cardboard boxes instead of plastic bags

Steensen Varming led an effective waste management partnership. They increased their waste streams in the office to include organic waste, landfill, mixed recycling, food packing/soft plastics, Nespresso capsules and cardboard. They engaged their building management Charter Hall to set up organic waste collection by their contractor, and also got onsite cafe The Naked Duck participating in organic waste, and are recruiting other office occupants of the building to scale the project up.

Steensen Varming also took on the CitySwitch coffee cup challenge, procuring reusable coffee-mugs for all their staff. They have also been considering changing their grocery supplier to company which delivers in cardboard boxes instead of plastic bags.

How do you improve on a six star tenancy? You tackle waste and lead your building to establish new recovery beyond the three bin system. They’ve demonstrated a creative, local and tangible partnership. It seems that impressive and sustained leadership is the Steensen Varming hallmark.

NSW judging panel

South Australia

 

Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources

Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources
NABERS Energy rating:

As a result of government amalgamations, the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) found itself operating out of seven locations in the Adelaide CBD. The decision was made to co-locate into the 35-year old Australian Taxation Office building, choosing to retrofit rather than occupy a new building. This was successfully achieved through an Early Contractor Engagement process, including the building owner and Schiavello as the fitout and base building upgrade contractor, and DEWNR as the tenant.

The achievement is a 6 Star Green Star Interiors rating from the Green Building Council of Australia, and has an agreement with the building owner to achieve a 5 Star NABERS energy and water rating. The environmental footprint has been reduced by nearly 40% in terms of leased floor space and 90% of the materials from the de-fit were diverted from landfill. The interior design has a focus on active working, with more than 30% of workstations being “sit to stand”, as well as centralised staff break out and printing stations. The partnership has achieved leadership in all areas of sustainability and shows that with strong partnerships extraordinary things can be accomplished.

The Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources’ decision to consolidate multiple tenancies and retrofit a new tenancy to achieve a 6-star Green Star Interiors rating is an exemplary display of innovation, collaboration and engagement. Their close working relationship with Schiavello was pivotal both the process and exceptional outcomes achieved.

State judging panel

Western Australia

 

HFM Asset Management

HFM Asset Management TSA Group
NABERS Energy rating:

HFM Asset Management (HFM) and TSA Group (TSA) engaged in an energy saving partnership in July 2016. As part of this partnership HFM undertook a comprehensive Energy Audit of the TSA tenancy in July 2016. Through the identification of energy saving opportunities and implementation of sustainability initiatives TSA is achieving 121,440kWh savings/annum, with a projected $37,646 financial benefit and 1.5 increase in their NABERS Energy Rating to 4.5 stars. HFM also has a 5 star NABERS Energy Rating.

 
 

CitySwitch State new signatories winners

New South Wales

 

Kernel Property - The Generator Room

Kernel Property
Key initiatives:
Converted a plant room into an office space; transformed a service balcony into a usable terrace

Kernel Property repurposed a previously unused diesel generator room into a fully functioning office that has resulted in financial savings, environmental value, and reuse of recycled materials.

Kernel Property retained the site’s original features as a raw industrial space. Their approach was to introduce materials that would have otherwise gone to landfill. They also converted a plant room into an office space and transformed a service balcony into a usable terrace that also allows fresh air into the office.

Kernel Property executed an innovative project that went beyond business as usual. A true success story about waste avoidance; and that’s something you want to reward.

NSW judging panel

South Australia

 

City of Unley

City of Unley
Key initiatives:
Mini-desk eco-bins, lighting upgrades with estimated annual savings of 9716 kWh

City of Unley joined CitySwitch this year to support office based businesses within the City of Unley. Recognising the importance of “walking the talk” the City of Unley has embraced the CitySwitch tools and resources and delivered exceptional results. Projects have included the role out of mini-desk eco-bins, lighting upgrades with estimated annual savings of 9716 kWh, the purchase of two electric assist bicycles, and the provision of KeepCups to all staff members. The positive impact has spread beyond the council with staff arriving to site visits and meetings on bicycle, and using their reusable coffee cups while out and about, sending a fantastic message to stakeholders and industry peers.

This often sparks conversation about other sustainable initiatives and practices and encourages others to participate in CitySwitch and consider how they can reduce their impact on the environment.

City of Unley has taken an enthusiastic and innovative, whole of organisation approach to implementing CitySwitch initiatives. Their leadership for other councils is impressive as is their very high level of internal engagement.

South Australian judging panel

Western Australia

 

Australian Taxation Office

Australian Taxation Office
NABERS Energy rating:

The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) reduced their energy consumption and improved energy efficiencies over the course of 18 months through a refurbishment of their Perth office. Energy savings from the project are being realised at an average rate of 36,400 kWh each month – resulting in a cumulative saving of approximately 145,600 kWh to date. The ATO currently holds 16 accredited NABERS ratings with 63% of their building performing 4.5 stars or higher.

 

Victoria

 

EML

EML
NABERS Energy rating:
Key initiatives:
Energy efficient lighting, appliances and HVAC

EML successfully implemented an Activity Based Working Environment in their new tenancy fit out, including a more rigorous sustainability policy and energy efficient lighting, appliances and HVAC. EML is experiencing annual savings of $37,000 and higher staff retention rates, with a 5.5 NABERS Energy Tenancy rating.

 

EML moved decisively to implement a sustainable fit-out in its new office, recognising activity based working is as good for their staff as it is for their energy performance - Rebecca Marson, Coordinator Engineering Programs

Victorian judging panel

New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory

Australian Federal Police
 

Australian Federal Police
Key initiatives:
Improved AHU filter maintenance, cooling tower fill replacement, de-energizing unused equipment in vacant wings, and implementing time clock controls on instant hot/chilled water units

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) performed an energy audit to identify areas for sustainability improvement. This was followed by the implementation of several sustainability initiatives such as an LED lighting upgrade, computer room air conditioning (CRAC) unit efficiency upgrade and recommissioning of the tenancy lighting control system. This project resulted in a reduction of 1,169,650 kWh and $93,698 costs from the previous year.

Other initiatives included improved AHU filter maintenance, cooling tower fill replacement, de-energizing unused equipment in vacant wings, and implementing time clock controls on instant hot/chilled water units.

Government buildings have a tremendous opportunity to demonstrate leadership. AFP is a role model to other government departments. They are clearly taking a sustainability stand – they took a poor building and have used solid tech to achieve an outstanding improvement. This is simply good building management.

NSW judging panel