Deerns sets benchmarks for sustainable design and strategy across diverse sectors.
At Deerns, we embed sustainability into the very core of our strategies, projects, and solutions, ensuring our clients are prepared to meet the pressing demands of the energy transition. With legislative targets looming and the stakes higher than ever, we view sustainability as an imperative.
The Urgency of Now
" Ultimately, sustainability is about more than meeting targets; it’s about creating a better future.
The European Union’s legislative framework, guided by the Green Deal and EU Taxonomy, has set ambitious milestones: 70% renewable energy adoption by 2030 and achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050. However, many of our clients are raising the bar, targeting carbon neutrality by 2040 or even earlier. At Deerns, we believe this forward momentum is not only desirable but essential. Designing for Net Zero today – while keeping 2050 in mind – ensures that our solutions remain ahead of the curve.
A Proven Legacy, Tailored Solutions
Deerns’ 95-year history positions us uniquely in the sustainability space. Our involvement spans the entire lifecycle of projects, from inception and strategy development to concept design, implementation, and operations. This comprehensive approach ensures we deliver actionable and effective solutions (early on) that tackle the multifaceted challenges of decarbonisation.
For instance, in the healthcare sector, we have designed carbon-neutral hospitals powered entirely by renewable electricity. In electronics, we work to reclaim and reuse scarce resources, contributing to a circular economy. Our expertise also encompasses real estate, airports, data centres and life sciences, where we apply tailored solutions to meet future sector-specific needs.
We combine our expertise with advanced technologies like AI and parametric design that use data to optimise building orientation, harness natural ventilation, and maximise daylight. These technologies, together with circularity assessments, enable us to:
- enhance resource, operational and cost efficiencies
- improve building performance
- source materials responsibly and plan for their reuse
- minimise waste and environmental impact.
Collaboration, Integration and Innovation
" Sustainability is a collaborative endeavour. Achieving carbon neutrality requires partnerships across the private and public sectors, academia and the broader community.
At Deerns, we build strong, trust-based relationships with our clients, guiding them proactively rather than reactively. By developing a deep understanding of our clients work and defining overarching goals at the outset, we:
- create investment cases
- align supply chains
- develop comprehensive strategies that extend far beyond individual projects.
Energy hubs located at for example, campus developments and aerotropoli are ideal opportunities for this. They provide renewable energy solutions for campuses, neighbourhoods and, ultimately, entire carbon neutral cities. A project we completed at High Tech Campus Eindhoven demonstrates how sustainability transcends individual sites, addressing systemic challenges through integrated design.
Healthy and happy environments significantly reduce absenteeism, boost productivity, and enhance staff retention. By integrating these principles into our designs, we aim to create spaces that not only meet energy and sustainability goals but also prioritise the wellbeing of those who use them. Our holistic approach underscores the interconnected nature of sustainability and human-centric design.
The Bigger Picture: Foresight & Strategy
Looking ahead, we recognise that the energy transition demands both short-term actions and long-term vision. While many technologies are already available, the challenge lies in implementing them effectively. At Deerns, we prioritise the nearest targets – whether set by legislation or by ambitious clients – because they drive innovation and deliver tangible results.
Our approach is guided by the belief that sustainability must also be good business. This means helping clients identify their most pressing challenges and then offering solutions that maximise value. Whether it’s reducing energy consumption, preparing for electric vehicle infrastructure or enhancing employee wellbeing through healthy building design, we tailor our strategies to address both immediate needs and future priorities.
Leadership & the Path Forward
As Deerns continues to grow its sustainability services, I am privileged to bring my global experience to the table.
" From energy feasibility studies and hydrogen strategies to Net Zero logistics and real estate, I have seen firsthand how innovation and vision transform industries.
My role now is to ensure that Deerns not only remains a leader in sustainable design but also expands its impact through collaboration and strategic foresight.
At Deerns, we are committed to delivering that future – one project, partnership, and innovation at a time. Together, we can turn the imperative of sustainability into a reality.
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