Global consultant CH2M Hill has reduced its water consumption in the UK by 19.3 per cent between 2011 and 2012 to 4,600 cubic metres, as it publishes its 2013 sustainability report.

The firm said this was a result of office closures, fewer water leaks and more reliable data from its office network.

The report shows that consumption per employee fell from 7.2 cubic metres in 2011 too approximately 6.7 cubic metres in 2012. This means that 2012 consumption was slightly below the good practice benchmark developed by the Environment Agency and Waste & Resources Action Programme, and CH2M Hill said it will seek to make further improvements in 2013.

At its corporate headquarters near Denver, Colorado, CH2M Hill said its potable water use had followed a steady trend. Facility improvements have been implemented, including promoting responsible water use as part of its corporate culture, installing low-flow fixtures, and equipping the restrooms in all buildings with dual-flush toilets to reduce the amount of water used for sanitation.

The firm said it views conservation as an “ongoing process” and will continue to invest in new technologies to achieve its water conservation goals, as well as incorporate advancements in water-efficient technology in decision-making for direct operations.

CH2M Hill engaged 25 per cent of its Operations Management Business Group (OMBG) clients in discussion regarding “water stewardship improvement opportunities”, beating its 2012 target of 20 per cent.

“Our clients expect us to provide innovative, cost effective, and comprehensive solutions and technologies that will help them become stronger environmental stewards, while our employees are committed to doing the same with our internal operations,” says CH2M HILL CEO Lee McIntire. “We are proud of our sustainability leadership in the industry.”