At PFE, we believe that progress and sustainability go hand in hand. As we develop our new head office and warehouse site, we are committed to ensuring that environmental responsibility remains at the heart of our plans.

From reducing carbon emissions to enhancing biodiversity, we are taking significant steps to minimise the environmental impact of our new facility while creating a workspace that will benefit both our employees and the wider community.

Sustainable Design and Energy Efficiency

A key milestone in our commitment to sustainability will be ensuring that we achieve a BREEAM rating of ‘Very Good’, demonstrating our dedication to energy efficiency, low environmental impact, and overall sustainable building practices.

To further reduce our carbon footprint, we have incorporated photovoltaic (PV) panels into the building design, allowing us to generate renewable energy and lower overall energy consumption. Additionally, solar glass on the office elevation will help regulate internal temperatures, reducing the need for artificial cooling during warmer months and improving energy efficiency.

Sustainability is also being factored into our day-to-day operations. The new warehouse will operate with a fleet of forklifts powered by Lithium-ion batteries, replacing traditional gas-powered models. This transition supports our drive to lower emissions and improve overall energy efficiency across the site.

Encouraging Green Transport

We recognise that sustainability extends beyond the building itself, which is why we are taking steps to promote eco-friendly commuting options for our employees. The new site will include 22 electric vehicle (EV) charging points in the car park, encouraging the transition to electric vehicles and supporting greener transport choices.

For those who prefer to cycle to work, we will provide staff cycle racks along with shower and changing facilities, making it easier and more convenient for employees to embrace sustainable travel options. Additionally, a comprehensive Travel Plan will be put in place to support and promote a variety of sustainable transport initiatives.

Water Conservation and Biodiversity Enhancement

Water conservation will be another crucial aspect of our sustainability strategy. The new facility includes a rainwater harvesting system, which will be used to irrigate the landscaped areas – reducing reliance on mains water and promoting responsible water usage.

The landscape design for the new site has been carefully planned to not only integrate with the surrounding environment but also to enhance local biodiversity. Key objectives include:

  • Enhancing the site’s natural appeal by integrating green spaces that complement the architecture and provide a welcoming environment.
  • Incorporating ecological design principles with an emphasis on biodiversity, including the retention of as much existing vegetation as possible.
  • Adding a significant proportion of native planting, including trees, thickets, hedgerows, and wildflower-rich grassland, to support local wildlife and improve ecological balance. 
  • Planting a new semi-mature oak tree, symbolising our long-term commitment to sustainability and the environment
  • Creating safe and inviting outdoor spaces for employees and visitors, fostering a healthy and green workplace atmosphere.

To support and evidence our ecological approach, PFE has also invested significantly in a series of ecological surveys as part of the planning process. In addition, we will be offsetting the equivalent of 3.5 green credits within the local area. This offsetting, which forms part of a wider ecological responsibility package, is expected to be delivered through an approved scheme ensuring our environmental impact is addressed and balanced as part of the development.

A Responsible Approach to Growth

PFE’s new warehouse is more than just an expansion – it’s a statement of our commitment to responsible business practices. By prioritising sustainability, we are ensuring that our operations continue to evolve in a way that benefits both our team and the environment.

As we move forward, we remain dedicated to exploring further opportunities to reduce our environmental impact. We look forward to welcoming our employees and visitors to a site that reflects our values and supports a greener future for all.