Being the first developer to install an eco-friendly lift that saves more than 50% energy consumption and the innovative eco-friendly pneumatic refuse collection system. Putting aside extensive area for landscape and greenery in a development. These are just some of the environmentally friendly initiatives that enable CDL to clinch the Green Leaf Award 2000. Organised by the Ministry of Environment, this annual award recognizes companies with outstanding contribution and commitment to environmental conservation and protection in Singapore.
Mr Kwek Leng Joo, CDL's Managing Director of CDL, expressed , "As a developer, we see it as our responsibility to offer a living environment that is conducive for a healthy and comfortable lifestyle for Singaporeans. Supporting the conservation of nature and the environment is indeed complementary to our business commitment. "
CDL has built over 12,000 fine homes in more than 60 projects over the past 36 years. It strives to offer new ways to create an even better living environment for the homebuyers when developing these projects.
CDL constantly looks out for building materials and equipment, which are environmentally friendly. It is the first developer in Singapore to install KONE Monospace Passenger Lift from Finland, an eco-friendly and energy-saving lifts for The Florida Executive Condominium. This lift system can save up to 50% energy consumption, compared to traditional lifts; requires no oil and is much quieter in operations. The resulting smooth and quiet ride in the lifts makes movement particularly pleasant for all residents.
CDL is also the first developer in Singapore to install the innovative pneumatic refuse collection system for its Sunshine Plaza, Summerhill Condominium and The Equatorial Condominium. Garbage is hygienically zipped along at about 70km/h, through a vacuum-sealed network of underground pipes into a single bin centre. This concealed disposal method reduces pests, odour and dust as well as requires less manpower and space.
CDL often sets aside large percentage of site area for extensive and lush greenery as well as shady and luxuriantly landscaped gardens in a project. In planning a new development, CDL always put in extra efforts to preserve the natural foliage where possible and to integrate the natural terrain into its landscaping. For instance, CDL's Summerhill Condominium has more than 50% of the site area set aside for landscaping, while developments at Spring Grove and Signature Park have retained mature greenery to form natural landscaping in the surrounding area. For Spring Grove Condominium, more than 100 existing trees were preserved with another 300 trees planted. A 110-year old Victorian bungalow was also conserved and transformed into a beautiful clubhouse, together with a century-old tree.
Apart from being eco-friendly in its business operations, CDL also actively promotes environmental conservation through its community relations programme. Major projects include the Singapore Green Map, which was recently launched by the Singapore Environment Council to promote Singapore as a country rich in ecological attributes as well as an environmentally sensitive city. CDL also initiated the use of eco-friendly recycled shopping bags through a large scale nationwide Shop & Conserve Campaign in 1999. CDL's Nature-Series corporate calendar from 1998-2000 has been a daily reminder of the important message of protecting the environment for future generations.