The CitySwitch Green Office program is a great way for businesses to improve office energy efficiency and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Workshops, training, support, recognition and networking opportunities are provided by the program.
In partnership with Sustainability Victoria and the City of Port Phillip, the City of Melbourne invites city businesses to join CitySwitch. Become part of the growing list of businesses who have made the switch and discover how small changes can make a big difference to the future health of Melbourne – and our planet. Participation in CitySwitch can also bring financial benefits for your business.
2011 CitySwitch Awards
The 2011 CitySwitch awards were held on Tuesday 29 November and recognised the achievements of program signatories in improving their office energy efficiency.
The Victorian Small Signatory of the Year is the Public Transport Ombudsman Victoria. As part of the program, they installed a sensor lighting control system, LED down lights and upgraded to LED computer monitors. They achieved a 5.5 star National Australian Built Environment Rating Scheme (NABERS) energy tenancy rating for their efficient practices.
National Signatory of the Year and Victorian Large Signatory of the Year is Ernst & Young. They upgraded their office down lights to energy efficient globes and installed an energy saving lighting control system. They achieved a 4.5 star NABERS energy tenancy rating for its energy efficient office fit out.
Case studies
Gadens Lawyers
'CitySwitch provided an effective framework for our firm to consider and reduce our environmental impact, with the added benefit of associated cost reductions,' said Jeremy Dixon, General Manager Marketing and Administration Gadens Lawyers.
CitySwitch case study – Gadens Lawyers (PDF, 777kb)
CitySwitch case study – Gadens Lawyers (Text only, 27kb)
'Getting involved in CitySwitch was straightforward and complemented many of the energy saving actions that the Department already had in place. As a result we are proud to have now achieved a 'best-practice' 5 star NABERS Energy tenancy rating,' said Phil Clements, Environmental Manager Department of Planning and Community Development.
CitySwitch case study – DPCD (PDF, 260kb)
Wood & Grieve Engineers
Wood & Grieve Engineers has maximised sustainability within their tenancy through delamping, minor technology upgrades and staff education. Results included:
- saved over $6,000 per annum
- reduced energy consumption by 10%
- CitySwitch Signatory of the Year (WA) award winner 2010.
City Switch case study – Wood & Grieve Engineers (PDF, 286kb)
Synergy
Synergy, WA's largest energy retailer, used an office refit to address energy efficiency and embrace sustainable principles. Results included:
- undertook low-cost lighting modifications and staff engagement
- consolidated and centralised office printers
- maintained a 5 star NABERS Energy rating.
City Switch case study – Synergy (PDF, 238kb)
Colliers International
Colliers International has created a sustainable workplace through encouraging simple behavioural change actions. Results included:
- energy efficiency challenges overcome through staff engagement
- management has led by example
- achieved an annual saving of 30%.
City Switch case study – Colliers International (PDF, 298kb)
Public Transport Ombudsman
The PTO Victoria addressed efficiency of servers, hot water, shredders, computers, lights and more. Results included:
- saving equivalent of 11,455 kg CO2 / year
- achieved 5 Star NABERS Energy rating
- used annual savings to buy 50% Green Power.
City Switch case study – PTO (PDF, 176kb)
Norton Rose
Norton Rose legal practice created a showcase tenancy and improved their workplace sustainability primarily through behavioural change initiatives. Results included:
- saving around $42,000 every year
- achievements primarily through behaviour change
- rolled out personal footprint reporting for staff.
City Switch case study – Norton Rose (PDF, 235kb)
Stockland
A move to a new Sydney office provided Stockland with a renewed focus on energy efficiency and achieving 'best practice' operations. Results included:
- achieved a 5 star NABERS Energy rating
- 49% less CO₂emissions than a average tenancy
- CitySwitch National Signatory of the Year award winner 2010.
City Switch case study – Stockland (PDF, 261kb)
For more information visit CitySwitch success stories.