Office and People Impact

At Chimu, we believe change starts at home 

Our offices operations are designed to reflect the same sustainability values we champion on our trips—every choice matters, from energy use to team wellbeing.
 

Energy Efficiency

We focus on making our offices as energy efficient as possible, from the way spaces are chosen and designed to how equipment is used.

• 100% renewable electricity powers our offices (including via market instruments where direct renewable supply isn’t available), and we preference providers with credible, low-impact generation.
• LED lighting, smart controls, and efficient HVAC set-points are standard across all locations.
• The Sydney office move in 2024 was designed for natural light, right-sized spaces and layouts that reduce energy use per person.
• Default energy-saving modes are applied on all equipment.
• Energy performance is tracked through our Environmental Management System and Climate Transition Action Plan, helping us set and monitor reduction goals each year.

Water Stewardship

Water is precious, so we design our systems to use it wisely.

• Low-flow fixtures in all offices reduce everyday consumption.
• A rainwater harvesting system supports the Mooloolaba office.
• We track water usage through utilities to inform future improvement actions.

Waste & Circular Practices

Minimising waste and keeping materials in use is a simple but powerful way to reduce our impact.

• Clear recycling bins for paper, general waste, and dedicated e-waste streams for batteries, devices, and accessories.
• Preference for durable, refillable, repairable, and recycled-content products; single-use items are avoided wherever possible.
• Paperless-first office approach; 100% carbon-neutral FSC paper is used only when printing is required.

Responsible Purchasing

We make every purchase count by choosing suppliers who share our values.

• Policy-led procurement guided by our Responsible Purchasing Policy and approved vendors list.
• Priority given to ethical, local, and independently verified suppliers (B Corps, FSC, Fairtrade, and equivalents).
• Centralised ordering ensures office and home-office setups meet the same sustainability standards.

Our People

Sustainability isn’t just about policies—it’s about supporting our team to do the right thing every day.

• Two days of paid volunteer leave each year so staff can give back to local communities.
• Additional two days health and wellbeing leave annually.
• Flexible work arrangements to reduce commuting emissions.
• Monthly office lunches to build team connection.
• Annual Health & Wellbeing Challenge each October, encouraging staff to connect, stay active, and prioritise mental health.  
• Dog-friendly offices that boost wellbeing, reduce stress, and make our workplaces more enjoyable.
• Annual anonymous employee satisfaction surveys, with action taken on feedback.
• Employee-led JEDI committee drives yearly Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion initiatives.

Smarter Travel & Commuting

We consider the impact of how we travel, even locally.

• We’ve phased out our old petrol vehicle and invested in an electric vehicle for our Queensland office, with charging powered by renewable energy.
• Virtual-first meetings reduce unnecessary trips.
• Essential travel is planned with efficient itineraries and economy-class flights.
• Offices are located for cycling, walking, and public transport access.

Governance & Accountability

Turning plans into action requires structure and oversight.

• Our Environmental Management System and Climate Transition Action Plan frameworks track and review energy, water, and waste targets.
• Sustainability responsibilities are embedded across teams, supported by training leadership oversight, and annual improvement goals.

Small actions add up. By embedding responsible practices into our offices with the choices we make each day, we aim to reduce our footprint and create a culture of care – creating momentum for positive change across our trips and beyond.