London City Hall gets greener

City Hall, home of the Greater London Authority, has been awarded Carbon Trust status. The converted status is only awarded to green buildings able to show an accurately measured carbon footprint, effective carbon management systems and demonstrable work on reducing energy consumption year on year. The landmark building, designed by leading architect Sir Norman Foster, was opened in July 2002 and was designed to maximise energy efficiency.  A spokeswoman for the Greater London Authority told edie.net: "Investment into a range of measures to make City Hall more energy efficiency will result in significant financial savings totalling £250,000 over the next 10 years” with 10% off annual fuel bills. Recent improvements including improved recycling, ongoing smart meter installation and voltage optimisation technology have further cut the building's carbon footprint. Staff are encouraged to travel to work by cycling with bike loans and pool bikes available and now between 10 to 15% now cycle to work.  future improvements will see more energy efficient lighting, which will emit less heat and use less energy installed, and a trial of more effective ways to turn off lights outside of office hours. Timing controls are also set to be introduced to shower and hot water generators, to improve the energy usage around the building. The building has also been signed up to the 10:10 campaign a drive to get individuals and organisations to cut their carbon footprint by 10% in 2010.