Our Commitment to Going Green

This charter encompassed a range of projects, all of which are significant in their own right but together form one single, company-wide initiative. In particular, 2007 saw us take steps in a number of key areas:

Recyclable carpet Throughout 2007 we developed a 100% recyclable carpet which not only matched the quality of our previous cord carpet but was also easier to lay. As we entered into 2008 we also introduced a recyclable velour carpet, which we believe we are the first contractor to introduce into the UK market place.

This means virtually all our carpet being laid in venues around the country is now 100% recyclable. As we lay in excess of 1 million sq metres of carpet every year this initiative alone is a significant step for us as well as supporting our clients in event sustainability.

Clean engines We also modified all our Heavy Goods Vehicle fleet to use Euro 5 engines, reducing carbon emissions for all our transport. We believe we are the first mainstream contractor to do this. Euro 5 engines are a cleaner more efficient engine thus reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Fitting all our fleet with Euro 5 engines ensures compliance with London’s new Low emission zone.

Separation of office and factory waste streams In January 2008 we introduced recycling bins to separate all our office and factory waste. Paper, plastic and aluminium are all now collected in separate bins. This is then taken away for recycling. Throughout 2008 we will be working with an environmental consultant to examine other streams of factory waste and how to dispose off it in an environmentally friendly fashion.

Melville Smartwire Smartwire is the biggest breakthrough in exhibition electrical installations for over 20 years. Designed to fit seamlessly into our existing stock of Sodem and Octanorm the two systems still regarded as the industry standard.

Smartwire uses a unique plug and play system that allows us to reuse all the cabling thus eliminating any cable wastage. Smartwire also uses low energy 35w lamps that reduce energy consumption, without compromising light quality.

Edge Edge is our new state-of-the-art modular stand system for space only and feature work. Using a unique profile we can create stunning environments without the use of wasteful traditional custom build materials. Every aspect of Edge is reusable, from the beams to the panels.

The Edge system has been manufactured exclusively for Melville Teamwork by Sodem and allows us to easily expand an existing space, creatively, effectively and efficiently.

Rather than attempting to hide the metalwork, this system turns it into a feature. The profile consists of a simple, yet elegant 60mm square featuring a large surface area with a satin metal work finish – all of which creates a stylish, streamlined look.

Graphics In 2008 we are experimenting with the utilisation of 100% biodegradable products into our graphics. Bioflex is a 100% biodegradable alternative to traditional PVC. When exposed to darkness, heat and moisture Bioflex attracts microbes that break it down into dust. It is strong, resistant to oil, chemicals, sunlight and weather as well as being flame resistant which is important to meet venue regulations.

The work continues Having made significant strides in 2007 this initiative is ongoing and, for 2008, we have set further ambitious targets including:

• Incorporating BS8901 industry standard into the Melville business
• Establishing a carbon footprint which we can benchmark, measure and set targets against
• Separating operational facility waste streams
• • warehousing
  • on site
• Fit office and warehouse lighting with motion sensors
• Sourcing and implementing ECO friendly cleaning materials

Through these initiatives we are committed to supporting the environment in the long-term. We are always looking for ways to improve our processes, adopt best practice and remain at the forefront of environmental work in the events industry.