The owners of Canary Wharf's first and highest tower block, One Canada square, came under fire from energy campaigners who claimed that the building was one of the UK's worst offenders at leaving the lights on all night.
What these campaigners did not realise is that in the world of financial services, where many Canary Wharf workers are employed, work often goes on around the clock!
All is not as it seems in London E14, where despite the appearance of well-lit glass-fronted buildings such as the one housing our serviced apartments in Canary Wharf, the whole development is – perhaps surprisingly – a model of energy efficiency.
How Canary Wharf is reducing its carbon footprint
Recently the Canary Wharf group has hired a specialist energy consultant to underline its commitment to the UK Government’s Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) Energy Efficiency legislative scheme, and help the whole development to meet the targets that come into force in April 2010. The consultant, Power Efficiency, will advise on all aspects of managing carbon emissions and energy consumption under the scheme. This includes an annual audit of the energy used and the efficiency performance of the whole site based on comprehensive metering. Under this agreement Canary Wharf Group will receive recommendations for lower carbon consumption.
Model of efficiency: KPMG's new Canary Wharf headquarters
KPMG's new headquarters is scheduled for occupation by the end of 2010 and will be one of London's most advanced buildings in terms of its environmental and sustainability features. The client is working together with Canary Wharf Contractors to fulfil some ambitious targets for the building. For example, carbon dioxide emissions will be cut 50% against the 2006 Building Regulations (far exceeding the legal requirement, which is for a 28% cut).
Meanwhile, the construction phase will be greener than ever: 90% of construction waste will be diverted away from landfill, and one-fifth (by value) of the materials used will have recycled content.
And there will be a green legacy once the building is completed: there will be around 200 cycle spaces to encourage zero-emissions travel to work.
Stay in one of Britain's greener business zones
It might surprise you, but out of all of SACO's London serviced apartments destinations, Canary Wharf might be the closest yet to a model of energy efficiency. Follow the link above for more information on our choice of serviced accommodation in London's Canary Wharf.
Other Guides from SACO
Where will sports fans stay for London 2012?
Do Londoners love luxury, or do visitors just expect it?
Is Canary Wharf literally "greener" than it might have appeared?
Crossrail station will improve transport to Canary Wharf
Canary Wharf: centre of energy efficiency?
London's Proms: a great concert tradition
Could a 'home from home' near Westminster be the answer in the House of Lords expenses debate?
Canary Wharf shows that it's a centre of culture as well as commerce…
