Publication of the State of the Nation 2020 report by the Institution of Civil Engineers highlights the monumental task we all have ahead of us working towards achieving the 2050 net-zero target. It confirms the need to accelerate our efforts in the infrastructure industry to decarbonise and for a change in mindset by all of us to tackle this global challenge.
Significant Change Ahead for the Construction Industry
We will all see significant changes in the construction industry on how emissions reductions are valued at the procurement stage. Just as we have seen a paradigm shift in mindset and behavioural habits towards health and safety through persistent efforts and transformation, we will see the same emerging patterns for emissions reduction. To survive in the construction industry we are going to need to lead, take charge now, accept these changes as necessary and improve our systems of working.
The Phoenix Commitment
Phoenix has always been committed to improving the environment in which we work and live, obtaining ISO 14001 accreditation in 2014 and using renewable electricity sources to power our offices. While managing our business concerns during COVID-19 we strengthened our working systems to maximise remote working, reducing work miles and use online collaboration platforms for internal and external meetings. We have seen many positive benefits from these changes and intend to maintain these working patterns beyond the pandemic.
State of the Art, Robust and Environmentally Sound Engineered Solutions
Working in the waste management industry we have provided state of the art, robust and environmentally sound engineered solutions for the treatment of landfill leachate to minimise its effects on the receiving environment. We have been at the forefront of designing practical solutions for containment in compliance with CIRIA C736.
Innovating to Minimise Impact
Our designs have included passive treatment using constructed wetlands and avoidance of ‘new build’ through engineering refurbishment projects to extend the design life of existing treatment infrastructure.
Minimising Use of Essential Chemicals and Re-using Waste Heat
Our control and automation systems provide real-time monitoring of process parameters allowing for efficient on-demand addition of process chemicals to minimise waste. Our aeration solutions incorporate the use of waste heat from aerators to maintain process temperatures during winter months.
Embracing Off-site Construction Methods, and Extending the Use of Factory Built and Pre-tested Skid Mounted Units with Containerisation
In more recent years we have incorporated more off-site construction methods, containerising pump skids and control stations, manufacturing and testing them at Phoenix House to reduce on-site construction and programmes.
Recalibrating Our Business as we Emerge from COVID-19
Phoenix remains committed to working with our Clients to provide environmentally beneficial solutions, while also rising to the wider challenges described in the ICE State of the Nation Report 2020.
We see great opportunity for all of us, recalibrating the way we work as we emerge from COVID-19 to rebuild a better, more sustainable society.
Jonty Olufsen
Managing Director
