At Pfluger Associates Architects we are committed to encouraging and sustaining an environmentally-friendly workplace through employee programs, waste reduction, and an environmentally responsible business approach. This is highly evident through the significant contributions we have made to the environment shown below.
Solar Electric System
Pfluger Associates Architects uses a 24.48 kW solar electric system atop the southeast facing roof of our office building in Austin. The system consists of (144) Sharp 170 Watt solar modules, covering approximately 2,000 square feet of roof area. This upgrade to our building will eliminate approximately 44,074 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions annually and is the carbon dioxide equivalent of planting six acres of trees. In addition, our solar system will avoid producing other pollutants produced by conventional energy generation including soot, mercury, NOx and Sox.
Waterless Urinals
The Pfluger Associates bathrooms use waterless and one-pint flush urinals. Typical urinals use one gallon of water per flush, and by installing these upgraded urinals, we are able to save up to 7,500 gallons of water per year. The one-pint urinal works the same way a regular one does, but just uses less water. The waterless urinal has an oil-filled cartridge in the drain that creates a “trap” to save water.
Low energy-use lighting
In the Pfluger Associates office, we use new linear fluorescent fixtures in all main work areas throughout the building, which are more energy efficient and will provide a more even distribution. Individual task lighting is used at each work station for flexibility and individual control of lighting needs. Also, we have installed many LED fixtures, which will have a longer life span than most light bulbs. Occupancy light sensors are used in our restrooms to avoid having the lights on all the time, minimizing energy consumption. Finally, large floor-to-ceiling windows provide daylight, so that fewer lights have to be used.
A Green Work Environment
Our work environment is full of things that encourage our employees to be more environmentally-friendly. Showers have been installed to encourage employees to bicycle and walk to work and our office is located on a bus line, giving our employees the option of not driving to work. We have also eliminated all bottled water and replaced it with a water filtration system. Pfluger Associates has also made every effort to get as many employees as possible to become Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)-Certified.
Recycling
At Pfluger Associates, we recycle anything we can. Some of these items include paper, cardboard, newspaper, plastic, aluminum and even used ink cartridges.
Sustainable Vendors
Whether it’s a carpet-cleaning service, or a caterer, we strive to use sustainable vendors whenever possible.
Austin Commuter Challenge
In May Pfluger Associates participated in the first ever Austin Commuter Challenge, a new program that aims to promote cycling as a green alternative for trips to work. In just four weeks, our 10-person team logged 400 trips by bike and 1,462 miles. If you assume this mileage applied to a 22/mpg vehicle - then we saved 66.5 gallons of gas for the month. This fuel savings further translates into 1,290 pounds of carbon savings - the equivalent of planting 15 trees for the month.