Tackling Environmental Issues
With environmental issues being central to an increasing number of land development projects, Engineering Design Consultants’ (EDC) clients benefit enormously from the high-level environmental engineering skills of our team.
Our extensive understanding and knowledge of environmental standards and the requirements set by regional and local authorities form the basis of our cost-effective, innovative design service and our sound advice aimed at reducing the impact of your development. As well, we provide solutions for environmental ‘mistakes’ made as the result of past practice.
Our environmental engineering services are outlined below. If you require any further information or would like to speak with one of our engineers, please do not hesitate to call us on 09 451 9044.
Infrastructure design and upgrading
With high density development placing increased pressure on existing public infrastructure, we have acquired extensive experience in the design and upgrade of existing drainage, water supply, sewerage, stormwater and road systems. We can also design low impact solutions for new intensive developments with consideration given to the downstream capacity and environmental features.
Resource and land use consent applications
We carry out assessments into the environmental effects associated with land development projects as outlined below. We also identify the most appropriate form of mitigation measures to reduce these adverse effects, and then provide comprehensive design drawings and reports to assist with Resource and Land Use Consent applications.
Stream and coastal protection works
Land development can result in an increased pressure on our streams and coastline due to the expanding impervious areas and related stormwater discharges. We have specialist skills in the design of low impact solutions to reduce the adverse effects from development and to remediate streams and coastal areas that have suffered from previous land-use intensification and natural erosion processes.
Contaminated land studies
Our extensive environmental engineering experience includes the study of land with potential contamination from previous use. We provide an investigation service to determine possible past contaminative use (by desk study of available historical records and aerial photos), soil and groundwater sampling to determine contamination levels, sources and potential effects. These are all described in depth in our detailed factual and interpretive reports. We also design and provide reports for the remedial work on sites to protect public safety and the natural ecology, where required as part of the development process.
Trade waste investigations
To ensure compliance with regulations, our highly-regarded environmental team carries out investigations and assessments of waste discharged from commercial developments, and reports on future provisions needed to address any serious concerns.
Overland flow paths & flooding reviews
Our team has the technical skills to use sophisticated stormwater modelling software estimate the extent of existing overland flow paths and flood plains that threaten land and dwellings. We review and design necessary diversions, erosion protection measures, and property protection works with a sensitive response to the natural environment and minimisation of the potential effects.
Energy efficiency (H1) design
Following the recent changes to the Building Code, we now also provide design services in respect to H1 "Energy Efficiency".
"In October 2007, Clause H1 of the New Zealand Building Code was changed to require improved thermal performance (insulation) in all new houses, non-residential buildings smaller than 300m2, and in alterations to both. New houses and major extensions to existing houses need to use 30% less heating energy to achieve healthy indoor temperatures than previously." Dept of Building & Housing.
The changes have become effective progressively throughout New Zealand and in Auckland this occurred on 30 September 2008. If you need these design services, please contact us and we can provide a fee estimate.