How we shape a better world Sustainability: Our year in perspective 2013/14 How we shape a better world: 2013/14
How we shape a better world
Sustainability: Our year in perspective 2013/14 Welcome to the 2013/14 edition of Sustainability – Our year in perspective, which covers our work in the UK, Middle East and Africa region, and reflects on our own performance. Here we give a snapshot of the past year, illustrating the ways we have helped build resilience and delivered sustainable solutions for clients, founded on the cornerstones of economic security, social betterment and environmental stewardship. We constantly challenge ourselves to push the boundaries of what is possible, to design with a social purpose and fulfil our mission of shaping a better world.
Our stories:
Delivering solutions Encouraging innovation Sharing knowledge Our performance in perspective Looking forward Read about some of the practical Our innovative approach has See how collaboration translates into See how we measure up in Find out more about our solutions we have delivered for helped build resilience for results for clients and progress for terms of our sustainability plans for the coming year. our clients. our clients. our industry. performance. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Delivering solutions
Meeting our clients’ objectives always comes first. Whether we are working to fulfil an organisation’s vision, drive efficiencies, build resilience against an uncertain future, or to deliver on a social agenda, our aim is to provide practical solutions that move clients closer to their goals. We offer an approach that is highly responsive, seeking to resolve challenges in an imaginative and efficient way to ensure project success. © AHMM © Jamie Thom
Mitigating risk to support renewables A green transport corridor Adaptation to climate change Enhancing biodiversity Contemporary bus depot sets benchmark Scatec Solar, South Africa Luton Dunstable Busway, UK White Collar Factory, UK Rodley Weir Fish Pass, UK Rea Vaya Bus Depot, South Africa © Kelda Water Services © Kelda Water © The Workplace Architects © The Workplace
Supporting zero waste in Scotland Creating a regeneration strategy 4-Star Green Star SA design rating A vision for sustainable mobility Anaerobic digestion plant, UK Haringey Council, UK NMMU Business School, South Africa Guildford Movement Study, UK How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Mitigating risk to support renewables
A first in South Africa Utility-scale output Scatec Solar, South Africa 312,504 PV Arup has been involved in the The 75MW nominal capacity Kalkbult solar Developed by Scatec Solar, Kalkbult consists of modules at Kalkbult Renewable Energy Independent Power photovoltaic (PV) facility was the first utility-scale 312,504 PV modules and covers an arid area of Producers Procurement Programme PV facility to connect to the grid in South Africa. 105 hectares in South Africa’s Northern Cape. The 135GWh (REIPPPP) projects since 2010, acting It is one of 18 projects in the opening round of the plant is estimated to produce 135GWh of electricity of electricity annually as Lender’s Technical Adviser (LTA) REIPPPP. annually. from the pre-bid stage through to financial close and construction. Global technical support Diversifying away from coal Fulfilling a multi-disciplinary role, Arup has supplied The output is sufficient to power 33,000 households PV experts together with electrical, structural, and avoid annual greenhouse gas emissions of geotechnical, transport-planning and transaction 115,000 tonnes. REIPPPP is the first major initiative advice specialists from offices locally and abroad. to allow for large-scale private power suppliers and to diversify the electricity mix away from coal power. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Creating a green transport corridor
Diverse ecology Protecting species and habitat Luton Dunstable Busway, UK 400 slow worms The busway will provide a major The challenge Arup faced was to protect and Successes include the translocation and safeguarding safeguarded boost to the local economy, reduce enhance the diverse ecological and landscape of around 400 slow worms and several hundred congestion, and ensure journeys are resource alongside the introduction of the guideway square metres of species-rich grassland turfs known 30-minute reduction infrastructure. to support common and pyramidal orchids, as well as in transport time from quicker and more reliable. It will Luton to Dunstable also help to improve the health of the enhancement of reptile, bat and badger habitats. local community and enable residents A co-ordinated approach 10km of busway to make a meaningful contribution This demanded a carefully co-ordinated approach A green corridor with 7.4km of guideway to improving the environment. to ensure that there was no net loss, and preferably Local people travelling the busway enjoy a green introduced gains, to biodiversity. Plans were corridor that passes sensitively through the unique developed to guide the project during construction chalkland landscape of Dunstable Downs. It offers a and for five years beyond completion. sustainable and efficient alternative to car use. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Adaptation to climate change
Climate modelling Passive heating and cooling White Collar Factory, UK Experimental Award Design of White Collar Factory, a Ten adaptation options were identified and modelled The decision to increase operable windows in the Future Projects, new-build 16-storey office block that against a weather file for the current climate and opaque area of the façade will enhance natural World Architecture Festival 2013 forms part of the Old Street Yard forecast files for the 2020s, 2050s and 2080s. ventilation potential. Use of passive systems will also redevelopment project, specifically reduce the need for mechanical heating and cooling to included examination of options A view of future energy use and comfort instances when temperatures are particularly high or low. to strengthen the building’s ability For each option, the impact of future climate on to adapt to climate change. energy consumption and comfort criteria within the Real-life testing building was analysed. From the output, and taking A 325m2 prototype was constructed to test concepts into account cost-benefit, design recommendations in operation, to refine the design prior to construction. were made. Two of the ten adaptation options have The building is on track to achieve both BREEAM been developed further. Excellent and LEED Platinum certification. © AHMM © AHMM How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Enhancing biodiversity
A need to bypass the weir Enhanced biodiversity opportunities Rodley Weir Fish Pass, UK Shortlisted The Rodley Weir fish pass provides Rodley Weir, owned by Yorkshire Water, presented Compared to a technical fish pass, the migration by the Institution of Civil Engineers a meandering rock-lined channel the largest barrier to migratory fish and limited efforts channel provides habitat for a variety of species in Yorkshire & Humber Awards, 2013 about 120 metres long with cascades to improve biodiversity in and around the river. addition to fish, and further enhances the value of the and rest areas, enabling migratory Rodley Nature Reserve to its urban surroundings. fish to access spawning grounds Effective design to attract fish further up the River Aire. Arup combined engineering rigour with Reuse of excavated material environmental sensitivity to deliver a robust structure To reduce the volume of waste removed from the that mimics a Pennine stream, providing an attractive, site, material arising from the excavation was used effective and low maintenance pass. Hard engineered to create flood defence bunds and rain-fed ponds that features provide erosion protection. provide new wetland habitat. How we shape a better world: 2013/14 © Jamie Thom © Jamie Thom © Jamie Thom
Contemporary bus depots sets benchmark
A benchmark for future depots Minimising energy use Rea Vaya Bus Depot, 270 bus parking spaces South Africa Dobsonville was the first BRT depot in sub-Saharan Lexan, a semi-transparent material that is similar the largest depot in Johannesburg Africa and set a benchmark for future depots; to plastic, was used for the façades. Lexan has The Dobsonville Rea Vaya Bus delegations from other cities have visited to learn insulating properties and acts as a temperature Rapid Transit (BRT) Depot, 80% electricity saving from this innovative and environmentally responsible regulator, thus minimising the need for air from daylight harvesting constructed for Johannesburg development. conditioners and heaters. Development Agency, occupies a a 80% of water five-hectare site and comprises 270 used to wash buses is recycled Decontamination of the site Community participation bus parking spaces, maintenance The brownfield site had been used as an informal The depot offers wide-ranging benefits to the local and administration buildings, and rubbish dump and needed clearing prior to and wider community including job creation, fuelling, washing and drying areas. development. Substantial excavation work was increased property values close to the development required, up to three metres in some places. and improved transport links. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Supporting zero waste in Scotland
From food to energy Minimising environmental impact Anaerobic digestion plant, UK 30,000 tonnes Arup supported Kelda Water Services The facility, due to be operational in 2015, will treat By working closely with the technology suppliers, of food waste will be treated each year (KWS) in their successful bid for 30,000 tonnes of food waste per year, collected by Arup minimised the environmental impact of the the 20-year contract to design, build Edinburgh and Midlothian councils to support their scheme, and then demonstrated that the proposed 1,500 to 2,000 Zero Waste project. designs met, or went beyond, the required standards. homes’ electricity equivalent and operate a food waste anaerobic supplied back to Scottish Water digestion treatment facility. Collaborative consultation process Ongoing support Arup led a collaborative consultation process with the Technical assessments, including noise, air quality key regulators; this informed the design of the facility and odour assessment were undertaken to inform and elicited statements of support from stakeholders, the site design and support the planning application. contributing to the success of the bid. Arup is continuing to work with KWS during construction. © Kelda Water Services © Kelda Water How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Creating a regeneration strategy
A single vision to inspire Integrated urbanism Haringey Council, UK 10,000 new homes The Tottenham Physical Development The PDF demonstrates that Tottenham is one of Founded on social enterprise and employment, low- projected between now and 2050 Framework (PDF) produced by London’s key areas for growth and regeneration, carbon development, housing estate renewal and Arup creates an integrated strategy and ripe for investment. Overcoming an existing infrastructure improvements, the Framework ensures 5,000 new jobs and vision for regeneration and patchwork of proposals and initiatives, the a balance of employment and educational opportunity. projected between now and 2050 change to support the Haringey Framework presents an overarching vision. Improved transport links 90,000m2 Council’s ambitions for Tottenham. of employment and A path for growth Arup helped secure the commitment of significant commercial space planned It sets out a conceptual spatial framework showing Government investment in transport, including the key opportunities for change and area-based a £500m borrowing guarantee and an initial action plans; these are now being used to drive commitment of £2m for feasibility studies for projects and maintain momentum. Crossrail 2, to enhance public transport links. How we shape a better world: 2013/14 © The Workplace Architects © The Workplace Architects © The Workplace Architects © The Workplace
4-Star Green Star SA design rating
Identifying opportunities Natural ventilation NMMU Business School, 50% saving South Africa Energy modelling was used to demonstrate The building is designed such that the multi- anticipated in potable opportunities for reducing energy demand. Arup then volume circulation and common areas open on to water consumption The post-graduate business school worked closely with the client and the design team to the protected central courtyard. They are naturally at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan achieve the sustainability objectives. ventilated with fresh cooler air being supplied at 50% saving University (NMMU) in Port Elizabeth anticipated in energy consumption ground level and extracted through vents at roof is the first Green Star certified Saving water and energy level. education building in South Africa. 70% of waste The building uses rainwater for toilet flushing, saving from construction diverted from landfill on water consumption. Initiatives to reduce energy Supporting community projects consumption include HVAC and lighting controls, Over two-thirds of all construction waste was and a photovoltaic installation, together reducing diverted from landfill, either recycled, or donated to carbon emissions. various community projects for reuse. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
A vision for sustainable mobility
‘Transport Futures’ workshop An innovative movement corridor Guildford Movement Study, UK 33% traffic reduction The Guildford Town and Approaches Arup worked with Guildford Borough Council Central to the strategy is a sustainable movement forecast in the town centre by 2050 Movement Study is the first step in to develop a vision for Guildford in 2050, by corridor based on green infrastructure principles, developing a long-term transport leading the ‘Transport Futures’ workshop with key which creates an accessible pathway through the strategy for Guildford to secure the stakeholders such as local councillors, senior Council town for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as a priority infrastructure needed to sustain the town officers, business leaders, and the local community. public transport route. as one of England’s leading centres. A shift in focus Sustainable travel modes Developing the vision required a shift in focus The movement strategy will encourage active travel from major highway infrastructure schemes to a modes, thereby improving health and quality of programme of sustainable transport improvements, to life. It will also provide fast and direct connections be achieved through facilitating incremental changes between key locations, potentially reducing traffic in travel behaviour. delays on public transport routes by up to 27%. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Encouraging innovation
We live in a rapidly changing environment. The issues we face globally are highly complex and their potential effects far-reaching. That is why we invest time and money to find innovative new ways to meet these challenges and pre-empt their effects, to help build resilience not just for our clients and their organisations, but also on a larger scale for cities and their communities, and for regions and their assets. We constantly question what we do and the way we do it, always asking if there is a better way. © UNDP © Rob House (concept – Arup)
Saving construction costs Safer, cleaner, more resource efficient The future of urban space Global health programme environmental safeguarding First Direct Arena, UK Arup’s Venturing Initiative Arup’s Cities Alive project United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) © PLP Architecture © Arriva
Practical steps to urban resilience Modelling to minimise noise Optimised fire protection Wireless charging technology Defining natural capital City resilience research project High Speed 2, UK Nova Victoria, UK Electric Bus Programme, UK Arup’s Out of the Blue project How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Saving construction costs
Measurable savings Co-ordinating information in 3D First Direct Arena, UK Awarded The £60m First Direct Arena is a BAM Construction have estimated that Building Early engagement with the supply chain, and the use IStructE Structural Awards, 2013 world-class music venue in Leeds Information Modelling (BIM) implemented by Arup of BIM to bring together and co-ordinate information Sports or Leisure Structure Award city-centre, the most sustainable and the supply chain removed at least 1,000 design in 3D between all parties, were key to the smooth Awarded arena in the UK. Despite its technical co-ordination issues and saved up to £500,000 in site running of the project. change, as compared to similar projects. New Venue of the Year Award, 2014 complexities and constraints, it is one Stadium Business Awards of the lowest cost arenas built to date. Minimising problems and waste Visual illustration of critical aspects Fortnightly online BIM sessions saved many hours Awarded As the design was finalised, Arup’s structural 4D-BIM of travel time and significantly reduced paper-based Design Through Innovation, 2014 Royal Institution of model was used for construction sequencing. This communications. By using state-of-the-art modelling Chartered Surveyors enabled visual illustration of residual risks and critical and collaboration, an integrated solution was construction aspects of the project. delivered that minimised problems and waste. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Safer, cleaner, more resource efficient
Arup’s Venturing Initiative Green façade from seed Low-energy air conditioning Arup’s Venturing Initiative seeks to Wild Screen is a new concept for internal and external Arup has developed a new air conditioning system commercialise products, software, green walls that’s cheaper, lighter, and easier to that delivers the same cooling as a traditional fan coil apps and business ideas that contribute specify and install than traditional products. The unit, with markedly reduced energy consumption, to designing a world that is safer, concept is currently under prototype, with small-scale delivered in the lowest-depth unit on the market. cleaner and more resource efficient. trials in four locations globally. Composite modular footbridge Improving UK flood defences This lightweight composite bridge has less than half A response to the limitations of current UK flood the embodied carbon of an equivalent steel bridge, defences, Aqua Wall is a versatile, water-filled, rapidly and requires less energy to transport and install. The deployable flood defence barrier. The prototype is modular design further reduces the embodied energy being discussed with the Environment Agency. by reusing moulds and reducing waste. How we shape a better world: 2013/14 © Rob House (concept – Arup)
The future of urban space
Cities Alive Healthier, safer and more prosperous Futuristic design “Arup has clearly articulated ‘Urban green’ is more than just Cities Alive shows how the creation of a linked ‘city The report looks at 21 aspects of a green city the problems and indicated the ecosystem’ can help create healthier, safer and more ecosystem, making landscapes work harder through solutions; the challenge is for us an aesthetic consideration for all to deliver.” prosperous cities. But, to realise this vision green a multi-functional design approach. From smart cities; it is a fundamental part Sue Illman, President of the Landscape Institute of an urban ‘ecosystem’ that infrastructure must take a more influential role in the weather covering to vertical farming and glowing improves social interaction and planning and design of cities and their surrounds. pavements, the project explores new and exciting physical and mental health. ways to create the cities of the future. Proven benefits With advances in technology, the value that nature A collaborative initiative delivers through ecosystems services can be Cities Alive: rethinking green infrastructure is a measured to demonstrate how integrated landscape collaborative initiative supported by the Landscape design can help optimise urban space to meet future Institute and Royal Botanical Gardens, Kew. demands and improve climate change resilience.
How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Global health programme environmental safeguarding
A robust methodology A toolkit for practitioners United Nations Development Awarded Programme (UNDP) Arup assisted the UNDP by developing a The work has been augmented with additional studies Consultancy of the Year 2014 methodology and tools to study health programme using life cycle assessment and supplier engagement Guardian Sustainable Business Awards The health sector globally is under impacts. Outcomes provided a detailed evidence base to provide a toolkit for practitioners. UNDP was part of Arup’s pressure to manage its greenhouse submission for this award to formulate sound policy and take action. gas emissions and Arup’s work with A basis for action the UNDP has set a standard for Environmental safeguarding The toolkit allows donors and practitioners to climate change impact assessment Arup worked with UNDP delivery teams and understand the climate change impact of different and carbon mitigation. procurement specialists to identify the carbon strategies and where priorities should lie, whilst impact from HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria maintaining national-scale health outcomes. The programmes including issues such as pharmaceutical work paves the way to include environmental and medical equipment production, waste safeguarding in funding decisions of global health management and transportation. providers. © UNDP © UNDP How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Practical steps to urban resilience
City resilience research project Enabling urban communities The City Resilience Framework With a significant grant from the The intent behind the research is to inform urban The output is a holistic framework that combines Rockefeller Foundation, Arup was planning, practice and investment patterns so that social and physical aspects of cities, and provides a tasked with carrying out research urban communities, especially the poorest and most lens through which cities can clearly see where there to articulate urban resilience vulnerable, are better able to survive and thrive are opportunities to enhance their resilience. in a measurable, evidence- sudden shocks or accumulating stresses. based and accessible way. Identifying priorities for action Comprehensive bottom-up research Arup is developing variables and metrics for 12 Extensive bottom-up research was carried out indicators that collectively describe a city’s ‘immune comprising a review of over 200 documents, case system’. Each indicator can be observed and studies of 14 cities, and fieldwork in six cities to measured to provide a city’s baseline, so priorities for understand different perceptions of risk. action and investment can be identified. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Modelling to minimise noise
Addressing community concerns An accurate prediction method High Speed 2, UK Awarded To alleviate concerns about the HS2 has attracted a great deal of public attention, Arup’s approach was based on proven methods used Transportation Noise Control Award, with concerns over noise being raised by those on HS1, ensuring input parameters, like rail/wheel Acoustics and Noise potential impact of ground-borne Consultants Awards, 2014 noise/vibration from high-speed living close to the proposed route. Arup’s modelling roughness and track performance, were appropriate trains, High Speed 2 (HS2) required work will help set the requirements to address these for the proposed speed, giving confidence to base “A significant step forward concerns. project requirements on the model’s predictions. in ground-borne sound and a robust prediction method for vibration modelling.” the environmental assessment. Judges comment Pioneering model A better understanding to influence design This is the first project to develop a model to predict Modelling these speeds has led to a better ground-borne vibration from passenger trains at understanding of the parameters that are most speeds of up to 360 kilometres per hour. significant, and how HS2 can be designed to minimise the impact of ground-borne noise and vibration. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Optimised fire protection
Nova Victoria, UK Structural resilience in fire Improving industry standards Nova Victoria consists of two multi- The new techniques optimise structural fire The techniques are at the forefront of innovation and storey office buildings and a residential protection layout allowing the reduction, or removal, problem solving in the field, setting a new standard building over a shared basement. of structural fire protection where it is not required, to drive the industry towards intelligent design and Arup applied innovative new fire optimising materials, whilst delivering robust improved safety provisions. engineering techniques to optimise measures where they are most effective. fire protection design of structures. Knowledge based innovation Safe and efficient solutions The result of collaborative research work carried The travelling fires concept enables the design to out through Arup investment and the University of account for human variables such as occupancy Edinburgh, this work benefited a broader programme and space functionality, resulting in a level of fire to enhance the educational foundation of future fire protection proportionate to the risks. engineers. © PLP Architecture How we shape a better world: 2013/14 © Arriva © Arup/MASP
Wireless charging technology
Fast and efficient Low-carbon public transport Electric Bus Programme, UK 17-hours A five-year trial is underway on Rather than plugging into the mains, the eight electric The trial, supported by Milton Keynes Borough continuous service the demanding Route 7 bus service vehicles have their batteries recharged wirelessly. Council and the Department for Transport, aims to in Milton Keynes to assess the A ten-minute boost approximately every hour is prove that low-carbon transport can be a cost-effective 775,000 passengers technical and commercial feasibility sufficient to enable them to operate all day. This is and efficient alternative to fuel vehicles. each year of an all-electric bus fleet. done during scheduled driver breaks. A business model to mitigate risk 270 tonnes Matching existing capability To overcome the inherent financial risk that comes of carbon savings p/a The speed with which the buses can recharge, thanks with new technology, MASP (a Mitsui-Arup joint to the innovative wireless charging system that uses venture) set up an enabling company, eFleet Integrated induction power transfer, makes it possible for them Service, to purchase the electric fleet and charging to match the capabilities of their diesel counterparts. equipment and lease them back to the operator. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Defining natural capital
Out of the Blue Water: a critical resource A new view of water infrastructure “I hope this book will be Out of the Blue is a collection of As water becomes an ever more critical resource, Going forward, there will need to be far greater read by every policymaker” there is a need to adopt rounded, forward-looking levels of community engagement and benefit to Lord Chris Smith, thought pieces and ideas about Former Chairman of the Environment Agency the meaning of ‘natural capital’. water management that fully takes into account water infrastructure projects, and catchment-based It aims to promote and stimulate economic, social and environmental worth. This approaches that work with nature. discussions on the value of water, publication looks at the future of water and how these one of our most precious resources. factors can be better understood and valued. Businesses to set the example Businesses must be at the heart of a new approach: Flexibility to adapt demonstrating corporate responsibility, reducing their In view of increasingly extreme weather patterns, risk exposure and delivering bottom-line benefits water infrastructure will need inbuilt resilience and through sustainable water management. flexibility to adapt. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Sharing knowledge
Knowledge is at the heart of progress. Sharing knowledge can save time and resources, and empower communities. It can spawn innovation and in doing so help to create a better future. Large-scale solutions are only achievable through collaboration, which is why we welcome working in partnership and sharing ideas through open dialogue. Within Arup, we look to engender a culture of inclusivity and diversity, which facilitates open communication and sharing ideas across the firm. © Wrap © Noah Sheldon / Julian Richards
Opportunities for young people Green infrastructure audits Enabling resource efficiency Reducing emissions: a global view Encouraging diversity and inclusion Arup Apprenticeship Programme Victoria BID, UK Embodied carbon database, UK Climate Action in Megacities Arup Connect Network © Dreamstime.com © Noah Sheldon / Julian Richards
Engineers’ response to natural disasters Changing perceptions through dialogue Safe infrastructure to reduce poverty What it means to be an engineer IMechE, UK Water Forum, Qatar Arup’s BridgeTOOL Insight Programme How we shape a better world: 2013/14 © Noah Sheldon / Julian Richards
Opportunities for young people
Accredited apprenticeship frameworks Informing the next generation Arup Apprenticeship Programme 39 new apprentices The Arup apprenticeship scheme The Technician Apprenticeship Consortium, of which Visiting schools across the country and attending in 2014, up from 7 in 2012 has been designed to encourage Arup is a founding member, has been working to Careers Fairs in London and beyond, Arup is helping more young people into the world develop two institution-accredited apprenticeship to inform the next generation of engineers what the of engineering and increase the frameworks in civil engineering and building sector is all about, and what an engineering career diversity of the workforce at Arup. services. entails. The foundation for a career A widely promoted scheme With a college curriculum influenced by Arup’s The apprenticeship scheme has been widely discipline leaders, apprentices are able to study a promoted and encouraged within Arup. Good news business-relevant qualification whilst working. This stories are shared across the business and Arup provides a real alternative to University through a apprentices are given opportunities to showcase their relevant and focused vocational qualification. work internally and externally. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Green infrastructure audits
Victoria BID, UK Free-to-download Learning from the past “… a superb innovation The Victoria Business Improvement The Guide outlines best practice for this new The Arup team carried out 50 telephone interviews to the BID toolbox…” Dr Julie Grail, Chief Executive, British BIDs District (BID) Green Infrastructure approach that is methodical, evidence-based, can be and a literature review to capture the lessons learned Audit Best Practice Guide written adopted by the profession, and can be understood by from previous GI Audits. by Arup sets out a step-by-step local authorities, businesses and communities. approach to enable organisations Helping to focus investment to undertake their own successful An informed review The philosophy that the Guide promotes will help Green Infrastructure (GI) Audits. Working in partnership with Victoria BID, Natural organisations identify space in dense urban areas for England, Cross River Partnership and the Greater new and improved green infrastructure, targeting London Authority, as well as the willingness of those investment in GI that has the greatest benefit to them interviewed to share their feedback, helped to create and helps achieve their wider aspirations. an informed and authoritative Guide. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Enabling resource efficiency
Supporting industry ambitions Life cycle assessment Embodied carbon database, UK 270 users The database provides a free web-based Set up by Waste & Resources Action Programme in Utilising life cycle assessment expertise, Arup was registered resource for building professionals collaboration with the UK Green Building Council, responsible for scoping the project, together with to benchmark the carbon footprint of this work supports the joint government and industry detailing the key features and design specification for 220 projects their designs to a far greater extent ambition to reduce emissions associated with the the database. Arup also co-ordinated data input from in the database and to more detailed comparative construction industry by 50% by 2025. across the construction industry. data than was previously possible. Identifying carbon reductions Clear and comprehensive The database helps designers identify where carbon The information in the database has been collated and reductions can be made. It also provides data that can presented in a clear, comprehensive and standards- be used by people across the whole supply chain to compliant way to allow project teams to gain an benchmark building designs. understanding of the typical embodied carbon footprint of different building types. © Wrap © Wrap How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Reducing emissions: a global view
Identifying what works Climate actions taking priority Climate Action in Megacities 8,068 actions Arup helped the C40 Cities The Arup-designed survey and resulting report World-first conclusions have been developed: almost since the C40 initiative Climate Leadership Group (C40) has helped quantify what is being done globally all cities surveyed see climate change as a significant was launched in 2009 measure and analyse the action to reduce emissions and increase urban resilience, risk for their city; climate actions have moved up city taken by mayors to tackle climate and ultimately, identify what works. This is the agendas with twice as many climate actions being change across 59 global cities. most extensive survey of city climate action ever taken in 2013 than in 2011. undertaken, with 1.7 million unique data points. A roadmap for action A thorough analysis By highlighting how cities have successfully tackled The report looks at data collected from the world’s shared challenges, the C40 report can assist every biggest cities, analysing actions taken to tackle city worldwide to build a roadmap of meaningful climate change by 11 city sectors, including actions. The report demonstrates that cities have the transport, waste, buildings and ICT. power and resourcefulness to tackle climate change. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Encouraging diversity and inclusion
Encouraging better understanding Policies to encourage travel Connect Out Star Performer Connect Out is Arup’s LGBT Events have been held to raise awareness and to Working with Arup’s International Mobility Network Group Award, (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and encourage greater understanding of the issues LGBT placement team, policies have been put in place Stonewall Awards, 2014 Transgender) diversity network, colleagues or friends might face, including a talk by to encourage LGBT staff to take up international and provides a supportive, BBC presenter, Evan Davis; a screening of Stephen assignments, although they can choose to opt out of professional and region-wide forum Fry’s documentary Out There; and a panel event co- working in a particular region, without any adverse to promote networking, mentoring hosted with the London Gay Women’s Network. impact to their career. and a sense of community. Improved Equality Index ranking A supportive environment The network’s efforts have helped improve Arup’s There has been a jump in staff perception such that ranking in the Stonewall Workplace Equality Index to 100% of LGBT staff surveyed felt their line manager become one of the top 150 gay-friendly companies to supported them as an LGBT member of staff, and work for in the UK. 95% that senior management are supportive. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Engineers’ response to natural disasters
Institution of Mechanical The growing impact of natural disasters A shift in emphasis Engineers (IMechE), UK Natural disasters are becoming more frequent and The report highlighted the large disconnect between severe. A disproportionate amount of their impact is current pre- and post-disaster funding. £1 spent on IMechE recently published a report felt in lower income countries with limited means building preparedness and resilience can save as Natural Disasters: Saving Lives and knowledge to increase resilience. much as £4 in relief, recovery and reconstruction Today, Building Resilience for later. Tomorrow studying the response Barriers to resilience of engineers to natural disasters. Using a systems-based approach, Arup provided a The vital role of engineers Arup was a major contributor. detailed understanding of the barriers to resilience As well as being embedded into early response and demonstrated how key interdependencies, when activities, engineers have a vital role to play to build affected, can turn a natural event into a natural capacity in engineering disciplines within vulnerable disaster. geographic areas and key international organisations. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Changing perceptions through dialogue
Water Forum, Qatar Changing perceptions Educating the next generation Arup helped facilitate the Qatar Green One of the biggest successes of the event was to A representative from the local water and electricity Building Water Council’s water forum create an open dialogue between the government, authority, KAHRAMAA, gave a summary of the in Doha that gathered professionals research institutions, the private sector and the wider programmes that are underway to raise awareness from the private and government public through breakout sessions. among the younger generation. sectors to discuss sustainable water use and management in Qatar. Raising awareness A role for everyone A series of presentations, including one by Arup, People representing a wide array of the Qatari outlined the key water conservation challenges community took part in interactive sessions and currently faced. The presentations helped raise their contributions highlighted the fact that there is a awareness of the priorities for Qatar, taking into role for everyone to play in water management and consideration the scale of each challenge. conservation in Qatar. © Dreamstime.com How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Safe infrastructure to reduce poverty
Eliminating rural isolation Skills for the future Arup’s BridgeTOOL Awarded BridgeTOOL enables the rapid design For rural people isolated by seasonal floods and During the build, great emphasis was placed on Lead Structural Engineer, impassable rivers, pedestrian bridges open the door to sharing all construction tasks between the different Young Structural Engineering of suspension footbridges, coupled Professional, 2014 Institution of with documentation to support the opportunity and better livelihoods. Improving access parties to maximise the exchange of knowledge; local Structural Engineers (iStructE) construction process and training through safe infrastructure helps reduce poverty. people gained the skills to look after the bridge in the programmes provided worldwide by future and carry out any repairs. Shortlisted Pilot project a success for two awards (Sustainability US-based charity Bridges to Prosperity, and Pedestrian Bridges), iStructE one of Arup’s Strategic Partners. A 50-metre suspension bridge in Rwanda was Building confidence Structural Awards, 2014 designed solely using BridgeTOOL. This pilot project BridgeTOOL serves to facilitate the transfer of helped to validate and refine the tool. The bridge itself knowledge by empowering local engineers to gain is a success story for the rural community, benefiting the skills and confidence to design and build their thousands of local inhabitants. own suspension footbridges. How we shape a better world: 2013/14 © Noah Sheldon / Julian Richards
What it means to be an engineer
Insight Programme Day-to-day activities Eliminating stereotypes The Insight Programme run by Salford During their week, students have the opportunity to This is the only all-female ‘Headstart’ course in the University gives A-level students the visit the Arup Manchester office, speak to graduate UK (an Engineering Development Trust initiative) opportunity to take part in a week- engineers and visit construction sites in the area, and is part of the University’s efforts to eliminate the long, residential engineering course. giving insight into the day-to-day activities involved stereotypes associated with the industry. Arup Manchester has been contributing in being an engineer. to the scheme for 20 years. Attracting women to engineering A practical angle Currently 13% of all those working in occupations The site visits give a practical angle to the experience classed as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and are an effective way of engaging with the and Maths, including health occupations) are women. students, helping them to understand more about WISE (Women in Science and Engineering) aim to construction and site considerations. increase this figure to 30% by 2020. How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Our performance in perspective
We monitor our performance throughout the year to track progress against our targets. Over the past three years we have continued to improve the efficiency of our office space. We have reduced carbon emissions, office waste and our use of paper, energy and water.
This data covers performance from 1 April 2013 to 31 March 2014 in our 27 buildings* across the UK, Middle East and Africa. Previous data has been updated where new data has become available. *Energy, water, waste, paper and carbon figures exclude our Africa offices where data collection remains challenging.
Our annual performance results:
Energy use Carbon emissions Community investment 15% reduction 10% reduction £378,000 invested overall per employee overall per employee in charities and community organisations
8% reduction 2% reduction 10,400 hours overall overall of pro-bono advice and volunteer work
Paper use Water use Awards 5% reduction 15% reduction 100+ awards copier and printer paper per employee per employee received in 2013/14
Waste management Management systems Diversity 84% diverted from landfill 100% offices certified 31% female employees office waste ISO 14001 Environmental Management System with 16.4% of management positions occupied by females
61% recycled and composted 30% of projects over £150k 25% management staff office waste report specific sustainability objectives (excludes Africa) completed diversity training How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Looking at trends over the past three years:
Energy use Carbon emissions* Community investment*
Reductions achieved through continued estate There has been a decrease in both CO2e/employee (22%) Charitable investments support education, disaster relief, rationalisation and increased occupancy density. and total CO2e emissions (11%) mostly due to reduced social welfare, local communities and professional Outsourcing of servers this year has reduced total reported energy consumption from outsourcing of servers this year. organisations. This year included £378k cash donations, over 2 kWh/m by 6% and MWh by 8% compared to previous In 2013/14 two-thirds of the tCO2e are attributable to 1,200 hours pro-bono work equivalent to £67k, plus £37k of years. There is a 19% reduction in kWh per employee due business travel (reported under scope 3). expenses and 1,400 hours of unpaid volunteering time. to increased staff numbers.
277 14,013 2013/14 0.2 1.2 2.6 2013/14 £378K £104K 2013/14
296 15,327 2012/13 0.2 1.6 2.7 2012/13 £429K £76K 2012/13
294 15,493 2011/12 0.2 1.7 3.2 2011/12 £249K £317K 2011/12
2 kWh per m of Net Lettable Area MWh total Tonnes of CO2 equivalent [tCO2e ] per employee £ invested
Scope 1 Scope 2 Scope 3 Target 3tCO2e per employee or less Donations Pro-bono *These figures have been updated to account for radiative forcing on air travel * Reporting method improved 2012/13 onwards to align with financial system
Paper use Waste management Water use Our reporting of paper now includes externally printed To improve waste management, we have engaged new Water use per employee has fallen by 16% over the last paper, such as our publications. Even with this increased waste contractors at two of our larger offices. Total three years. This is due to parts of the estate being more scope paper use per employee has reduced by 11% with the tonnes of waste have reduced by just under 6% to modern with low volume flushes and sensors installed in additional paper being offset by a reduction in paper use 503 tonnes and per employee has reduced by 15% to the facilities. Also, fixed volume usage is now apportioned from our copiers and printers. 128kg/pa. across a greater number of employees.
29 3 2013/14 16% 23% 61% 2013/14 0.59 7.5 2013/14
34 2012/13 19% 17% 64% 2012/13 0.62 8.9 2012/13
36 2011/12 18% 18% 65% 2011/12 0.61 9.1 2011/12
Kg of office paper used per employee tonnes m3
3 2 3 Internal used paper External printed paper Landfill Waste to energy Recycled/composted m per m m /employee Target reduce internal paper use by 15% compared with 11/12 level (30.6) How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Selected Awards 2013/14
Our work has attracted a number of awards throughout the past year, some of which you’ll find mentioned within individual case studies. And while awards are not our driving force, we are nonetheless proud when our work is recognised. Here we showcase just a few of these awards, illustrating our achievements as a leading consultancy, an organisation where people want to work, and one that is regarded for its contribution to the local community.
The Sunday Times The Times Top 50 Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Management Consultancies Guardian Sustainable 100 Best Companies to work for Employers for Women Business Awards Association Awards Business Awards No. 91 2013 & 2014 Excellence in Contributing to the People Award – Winner Consultancy of the Year – Winner Community Award - Joint Winner How we shape a better world: 2013/14
Looking forward
Our strategic direction has been set with an emphasis on cities, which will play an ever-increasing role worldwide over the coming years. Our efforts will encompass all aspects of cities, from transport and mobility to use of resources. Our role is to provide cohesion across these critical agendas and help improve resilience and security. Working in partnership we help shape responsible solutions, to maximise value for our clients and enhance quality of life for society as a whole.
How our plans are shaping up 60 years in Africa 2014/15 celebrates 60 years of work in sub-Saharan Africa, Travelling with Vision has inspirational talks planned, work that has spanned many countries. The upcoming year including with environmental scientist Tim Jarvis, and Juliet includes work on renewable energy projects in South Africa, Davenport OBE, founder of Good Energy. pro-bono work on a school construction programme in Ghana, and improving water utilisation for a brewery in Ethiopia. Fostering new talent New talent is vital to the future of Arup and to engineering Community engagement initiatives as an industry. Our Apprenticeship programme is up and Our work with our six strategic partners on community running and attracted 39 new recruits this year, with similar engagement initiatives continues, including a Resilient Water numbers planned for the year ahead. Arup University, recently Systems UK student competition with Engineers Without relaunched, will offer high quality and relevant learning to Borders UK, seeking ideas for flood mitigation or water staff, and provide research funding. sanitation networks in developing countries. Targets for the year ahead An inspired workforce We continue to put emphasis on the need to reach our target of Ian Rogers Connect Cultures is due to launch this year and will have an 3tCO2e per employee and to reduce resource use. In addition, Sustainability Director active programme to build on the firm’s founding principles diversity training has become a higher priority for us and we UK, Middle East and Africa Region and ethos of diversity, and to ensure a spirit of creativity are aiming for 40% of managerial staff to have completed [email protected] continues to thrive. diversity training by year-end.