FIRMENICH RECEIVES REFURBISHMENT RATING

Firmenich, in line with its global commitment to acting on climate change, embracing nature and caring about people, has delivered a refurbished facility which has received a Green Building Council SA 6 Star Green Star Interiors rating for its offices and manufacturing laboratories in Midrand, Johannesburg.

The company worked with the Tetris design and build team to deliver a holistic solution that considered the entire eco-system of the workplace, and the final solution placed employee wellbeing at the core of the upgrade. There is improved energy efficiency, rainwater harvesting, quality air supply, access to natural light and views of landscaped gardens. A light study resulted in 85% of employees being seated within seven metres of natural light.

A 75% reduction in municipal power use through the installation of photovoltaic roof panels ensures continuous productivity despite power outages. This saving is combined with a 67% reduction in reliance on municipal water, achieved by collecting and processing rainwater from the roof and parking areas. Water is stored in a 100 000 litre underground tank before being pumped into a 5000 litre tank above ground, and then through reverse osmosis treatment, generating potable water.

The HVAC system distributes fresh air throughout the space and CO2 monitors measure air quality on a continuous basis. Awareness of power, water use levels and air quality are all tracked through smart metres and communicated internally to create awareness about the conservation of natural resources.

www.tetris-db.com