Extensive work has been invested in sustainable business solutions resulting in Design House being recognized in 2009 as:
– the first commercial graphic and website design studio to be an ecoBiz accredited Partner with the Queensland Government and;
– the first ecoBiz Partner from the Hervey Bay region.
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“ecoBiz has allowed us to record and register our improved environmental practise in the office. Design House can now continue to grow in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner”. – Jeanette Maynes
Design House have committed to continual improvement as part of their commitment to the ecoBiz program. Current initiatives include:
- Improved thermostat settings 250C
- The use of protective film and blinds on windows
- Windows are opened during cooler weather to take advantage of natural ventilation.
- The airconditioning is turned off after hours
- Outsourced server function to a host server in another location, no longer require a second airconditioner dedicated to cooling the server 24 hours a day, seven days a week
- Energy efficient lighting
- Setting computer defaults to black and white printing
- Providing paper recycling bins at all printers and desks
- Utilizing old sheets of paper for writing notes instead of purchasing writing pads
- Reduction in printing of emails, by saving straight to the clients file
- Proofs, proposals and invoices are delivered electronically saving on paper, ink cartridges, postage and envelopes
- New campaigns and important news are communicated via email (eg. monthly enewsletter) over printed material wherever feasible
- Mbox fax system, faxes are received via email and saved straight to the clients file
- Clients are encouraged to pay online via credit card or direct deposit, once again to save on paper
- Request all incoming invoices (Telstra, printers etc) are electronically emailed or uploaded rather than printed and posted via Australia Post
- Environmentally aware behaviour in the office has led to reduced energy usage and a reduction in paper use
- Carbon offsets are purchased on all airline flights & travel tickets
Design House also utilizes printing companies that believe in being environmentally responsible by:
- Using soy based inks
- Producing plates through the Agfa Azura chemical free plate processor
- Offering a range of specials printed on 100% RECYCLED STOCK