We deliver exceptional projects using sustainable practices with a 4 point reduction strategy
Sustainability is crucial if we want to build a better future for our planet. Our aim is to be an industry trendsetter by making all of our construction projects Net Zero by 2050. We can deliver this through working with our supply chain to calculate the full carbon lifecycle of a project, using renewable sources of energy on site, and through waste reduction and recycling.
Carbon lifecycles on our projects
To calculate carbon emissions, form a construction project’s full lifecycle, successful collaboration with the entire supply chain is essential, including with our raw material suppliers, manufacturers, subcontractors and clients. We are continually working with our valued partners to gather scope 3 or ‘indirect’ emissions data and information. This ensures accurate carbon reporting, and allows targeted carbon reduction plans to be put in place.
Renewable Energy Sources
Whilst our head office energy supply is currently made up of mostly renewable energy (81%), we have less direct control over the significant amounts of energy that are used on our construction sites. We are working with our clients to identify opportunities to use renewable tariffs, alongside influencing and assisting in the installation of locally generated renewable energy, such as solar panels.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
At Virtus, we recognise that driving the circular economy is one of the most effective ways to decarbonise our construction projects. We partner with specialist re-use companies to identify items for re-use within early design stages of a product, aiming to keep materials in use at their original value for as long as possible. We apply the waste hierarchy to ensure residual materials are recycled, some examples include recycled yogurt pot handwash basins and worktops, reclaimed timber and recycled timber offcuts used for acoustic panels.
Sustainable Procurement
The sustainability of the environment is a key factor for preserving the natural resources of the planet and making changes in how we manufacture, install and operate the modern working environment if we are to protect it for future generations. It is imperative that every construction process and project plays a role in creating a criteria for sustainability. We have become very accustom to reviewing every project based on the following criteria:
- Recycled content
- Reused content
- Rapidly renewable content
- Location of extraction, harvesting and manufacturing and mode of transport to site
- Forest Stewardship Council certification
- Supply Chain Environmental Management Scheme
- Level of embedded carbon
- VOC levels
We are proficient in the use of sustainable and reusable materials on site, including products such as reclaimed timber, recycled timber offcuts used for acoustic panels and reused furnishings.
Awards and Accreditations
We are committed to being recognised as a modern forward thinking construction company and realise the importance of meeting the standards and expectations of our customers and in recognition of this we are members of Constructionline and CHAS, whilst also having accreditation under ISO9001 & ISO1400.
