Sustainability at Creative Valley
Together for a sustainable future
GREEN AND SUSTAINABLE INNOVATIONS
At Creative Valley, sustainability is central to everything we do. Our commitment begins with the development and construction of environmentally friendly buildings. Since 2023, both of our locations have been Paris Proof and have achieved at least an A energy label. Through sustainable modifications to our buildings on Orteliuslaan and Stationsplein, we aim for significant energy savings and a reduced ecological footprint. Our comprehensive sustainability mission is reflected in every decision we make, from procurement to facilities management. Additionally, we actively participate in local sustainability initiatives, contributing to a healthier living environment for everyone.
SUSTAINABLE IMPROVEMENTS AT ORTELIUSLAAN
At our building on the Orteliuslaan (built in 2008), we have made several sustainable upgrades. These include replacing the general lighting in public areas and the parking garage with LED lights equipped with motion sensors. The motors of the air handling units have been replaced with DC plug fans, and we implement air recirculation during the night. The installation of 211 solar panels, along with these measures, results in annual energy savings of approximately 170,000 kWh.
ENERGY-SAVING MEASURES AT STATIONSPLEIN
Our newer building at Stationsplein (built in 2019) has also undergone various adjustments to reduce energy consumption. For example, the lighting in the emergency stairwells is equipped with motion sensors, and timers have been installed on screens and illuminated signs, which result in significant energy savings.
A COMPREHENSIVE SUSTAINABILITY MISSION
Integrating our sustainability mission into every aspect of our operations is of great importance to us. We minimize transport movements, use the R-ladder as a decision-making tool, encourage the reuse of furniture, and adopt a circular and sustainable procurement policy. Some examples include:
- Quookers with still and sparkling water instead of plastic water bottles
- Glassware instead of disposable cups
- In collaboration with De Clique, we collect coffee grounds for the production of oyster mushrooms. By 2024, we have already collected over 2000 kilograms of organic materials. The coffee grounds, which are collected separately, are used to locally cultivate oyster mushrooms. Food scraps and trimmings are partially composted at the hub using various natural methods and partially in collaboration with farmers in the Province of Utrecht.
- Providing healthy, freshly prepared lunches
- Creating rooftop terraces with plenty of greenery
- Offering facilities to shower at work
- Installing wide, accessible stairs instead of elevators to encourage movement and connection
- Organizing sport events for the community
BREEAM NL IN-USE CERTIFICATION
In early 2024, we received the BREEAM NL In-Use certificate for our location at Utrecht Central Station. BREEAM stands for ‘Building Research Establishment’s Environmental Assessment Method’ and is a performance-based assessment method and certification system for existing buildings. BREEAM-NL In-Use considers sustainability broadly, assessing our building and concept on various criteria such as management, health and well-being, energy, transport, water, material use, waste, land use and ecology, and pollution. Our sustainability goals exceed the legal minimum requirements stipulated in the Building Code and other regulations. This assures our residents, guests, and visitors that our building and concept meet all sustainability standards.
ACTIVE PARTICIPATION IN SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES
We also look beyond our own buildings and actively participate in promoting and maintaining a healthy living environment. We are a participant and active working group member of the Green Business Club Utrecht and active core members of the Entrepreneurs Fund Utrecht focal areas Utrecht Central and Association of Companies Papendorp. Through initiatives such as the I Light U light exhibition in the Station area, the “Bomen Bal” on Jaarbeursplein in collaboration with the GBCU, and Off the Tracks, we contribute to the livability of our environment.
