Red is the New Green
MacDonald-Miller does more than improve the power and water usage of the buildings we build and maintain. Every day we take steps to ensure that our corporate footprint is as minimal as possible.
Internal Initiatives
Waste Stream Reduction, Recycling and Composting
Today MacMiller’s offices are focused on minimizing all waste products—from recyclable materials to compostables. We also recycle batteries, printer cartridges, wood and metals. Reusable dishes, eco-friendly supplies and a commitment to replace paper with technology all contribute to an improved operational footprint.
Alternative Commuting Options
Employees receive Commuter Bonus Vouchers to encourage their use of bus, train, ferry and van pool transportation. Our Citrix system allows team members to telecommute. MacMiller also promotes cycling to work with secure indoor bike storage, shower facilities and our sponsorship of the MM STP (Seattle to Portland) cycling team. Plus, company vehicles are available for flex use.
Sustainable Products and Processes
From utilizing a green janitorial service to outsourcing the printing of marketing materials to an FSC-certified facility to fabricating proposal binders with 100% recycled pressboard, MacMiller continues to seek ways to work green.
Reassessment of Corporate Vehicles Usage and Routes
Our fleet usage is optimized to reduce trips and lighten loads for smarter fuel usage. Satellite offices provide localized home bases for field personnel and project staff, shortening overall commuting time.
Commitment to Improvement and Education
Our Green Committee meets to discuss green trends, new technologies and review MacMiller processes. Sharing information continues with our Green Engineering Forum—a panel of engineers who focus on sustainable engineering trends.
Facility Monitoring
Two MacMiller offices are using DreamWatts to reduce system override by occupants and increase overall building performance.
External Initiatives
LEED Expertise and Energy Efficient Technologies
With nine million square feet of completed LEED projects, MacMiller is a leader in LEED—for new and existing buildings, and TIs. Our energy projects are supported by 21 LEED accredited professionals, four certified energy managers, and a utility incentives/rebates coordinator on staff.
Energy Partnerships
MacMiller is working with Washington Stage Housing Finance Commission on a pilot program that provides $20 million of funding to non-profit organizations for increasing the energy efficiency of their facilities. Allied with Seattle Steam, MacMiller identifies energy inefficiencies of facilities served by the downtown steam company. Macmiller also takes a leadership role in the industry by writing articles, public speaking and teaching seminars on topics such as LEED and Energy Optimization.
Active Members of Industry Groups
MacMiller team members are involved with organizations that promote education and provide resources for energy management and process improvments including USGBC, Cascadia, Seattle Climate Partnership, Lean Management Institute, and Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance.
Measured Success
Again and again, MacMiller projects produce tangible differences to building owners. Seattle Chase Building (formerly WaMu Center) was given the nation’s first perfect score from Energy Star (100 points total) under the direction of David Nieman, MacDonald-Miller Senior Systems Analyst (while he was Building Engineer with Wright Runstad). The average Energy Star rating for buildings rated and serviced by MacMiller is 86.
