Spowers achieves ISO 14001

Green Building Council of Australia members, Spowers Architects, have achieved the internationally leading standard ISO 14001:2004 for the Environmental Management of all project procedures, management and general operations. The company is thus one of the very few Australian architectural practices which are accredited to ISO 14001.

The independently certified accreditation is fully integrated with the ISO 9001 Quality Assurance ensuring optimal processes and outcomes for inspiring, healthy, efficient and environmentally sound buildings, master planning and interiors.

Spowers' procedures reflect the industry's leading environmental rating tools such as Green Star thus integrating and streamlining design, construction and accreditation processes. The achievement of ISO 14001:2004 underlines Spowers' driving commitment to quality and environmental performance in the Australian property industry.

Stefan Preuss, Manager Sustainable Design at Spowers says the certification closes the loop for sustainable quality assurance in architectural consulting services. While it is common for builders to obtain the certificate as it links in with the Green Star rating system it has been rare for architects to head down that track. All Spowers projects undergo a rigorous process of environmental considerations.

Most of the requisite environmental procedures were already in place and were expanded from Spowers ISO 9001 policies.

It has been widely recognized that to make a substantial difference to greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts including health and productivity considerations we have to tackle the breadth of projects in the Australian property industry. Spowers decided to integrate ISO 14001:2004 as it currently provides the only independently certified proof to clients of respective integration into the full scope of operations.

spowers.com.au
03 96146144