At a recent award ceremony, DDS was praised for its progressive attitude towards integrating environmental initiatives into its commercial strategy. The company was awarded a Bronze Apple in the Built Environment and Architectural Heritage category for its project at the Blue Fin Building in Southwark.

The Green Apple trophy was presented by top botanist and TV personality Professor David Bellamy, OBE, with the judges commenting that: 'Impact is the key word in this office. The architect has created a workspace which promotes communication to the highest levels.'

DDS has consistently prioritised sustainability as a key design criterion in both its business operations, and its service delivery to clients.

Henry Lawson, DDS president and chief operating officer for Europe said: 'Moving to a new building gave us the ideal opportunity to create an office that's not only comfortable and efficient but which is also at the cutting edge of environmental initiatives. We're delighted to win this award and proud of our efforts to reduce the environmental impact of our business.'

He adds: 'Our architects have ensured, wherever possible, that only sustainable material be used in the fit-out of the office. We consulted industry experts when selecting and installing heating, cooling and lighting equipment and now have the latest, most efficient systems in place.

'We’ve adopted video conferencing as the default long-distance meeting facility - leading to a dramatic reduction in international and European flights by staff - we specified floor tiles made from recycled industrial glass waste, and we’ve lowered our carbon emissions through reduced energy use – achieving a 40% saving in electricity alone from moving to new premises.'

In other initiatives, and in a move to reduce the environmental impact of its printing, DDS has invested in new facilities and moved its bulk reporting online. Following an internal review of its printing processes, the company has now cut its printing volume by over 60% annually - a saving of 65 tonnes of paper or the same weight as nine Routemaster double-decker buses.

Lawson adds: 'We have recycling bins through the office, old computers are donated to Computer Aid International and where possible, beverages and foods offered free to staff and visitors are sourced with ethical and environmental considerations in mind - we aim to provide quality while also championing sustainability.

'We also have a green transport policy. Staff can use either public transport or our electric cars for local business trips. Taking a taxi is only permitted where there's no other alternative, and our preferred taxi firm uses only the Toyota Prius, one of the most environmentally friendly vehicles on the market.

'Additionally, we moved to an open plan office so we could centralise and reduce resources, such as printers. Going green has not only saved money but also had an impact on staff morale - everyone bought into the idea from the beginning.'

Chris Roche, principal design architect at 11.04, the company advising DDS said: 'DDS’ new office environment has provided a platform for a renewed commitment to reducing energy use, and a framework of corporate responsibility towards the natural environment. Through the intelligent use of resources, DDS has managed to reduce energy use, reduce waste, and thus reduce its carbon footprint.'

For further information, please contact:

Linda Conway DDS Tel: +44 (0)20 7255 7099 Email: linda.conway@dds.co.uk