Orion City is revolutionizing the IT/BPO industry, merging sustainable infrastructure with a commitment to community well-being and development. With its LEED Gold certification for Orion Tower Phase I, the company showcases its environmental sustainability through rainwater harvesting and advanced waste management initiatives. Gaveshi Atapattu, CFO, and Sudheera Bandara, Head of Marketing, highlight Orion’s holistic approach, extending beyond environmental action to improve the social well-being of tenants and local communities. This strategy underlines their deep grasp of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, demonstrating how Orion City has transformed its focus on giving back from CSR and charity to something deeper and bigger in scope underpinned by responsible practices that can positively impact society and foster communal growth.
In what ways does Orion City promote a sustainable work environment with its design and infrastructure?
Our ability to customize rent spaces coupled with our commitment to sustainability is showcased through our eco-friendly infrastructure at Orion Tower, designed for a green and efficient work environment. Earning the LEED Gold certification for Phase I demonstrates our adherence to advanced green building standards, including an energy-efficient air conditioning and water cooling system.
Key to our sustainability efforts is our rainwater harvesting system used for garden irrigation, exemplifying efficient water management. Our holistic approach to waste management includes an e-waste recycling centre and a unique garbage cooling system for food waste, which is then redirected to piggery farms, promoting a circular economy.
Architecturally, we’ve incorporated double-glazing glass in our façades to enhance thermal insulation, reducing air conditioning use and saving energy. Together, these initiatives reflect our deep commitment to environmental care and our role in fostering a sustainable, resilient urban ecosystem.
How does Orion City enhance the social well-being of their tenants within the facility?
We prioritize the social well-being of all our tenants, creating a vibrant community atmosphere through shared spaces and diverse events. To foster community engagement and cultural enrichment, we regularly organize workshops, seminars, and cultural performances, which also aim to provide tenants with opportunities for knowledge sharing.
The communal restaurant facilities serve as a lively hub for social interaction, complemented by annual gatherings and entertaining events designed to enhance the sense of camaraderie among tenants. Additionally, we provide hotel room facilities that cater to the needs of both short-term visitors and long-term residents, offering them convenient, comfortable and secure accommodation options.
Orion City also demonstrates its commitment to social responsibility through various initiatives. Noteworthy among them are blood donation campaigns and mobile eye clinics, which promote health and well-being within the community, reflecting our dedication to giving back to society.
Furthermore, we have essential services like banking, easy-pay machines, and an onsite supermarket to ensure tenants easy access to necessary services that enhance their overall experience in Orion City.
What efforts are made to facilitate a sound work environment?
Orion City’s commitment to a robust work environment extends beyond societal care, focusing on harmonizing customizable workspaces and offering shared amenities like centralized security and housekeeping. This creates a collaborative and secure atmosphere, enhanced by our strict cleanliness standards that benefit our occupants’ aesthetics and health.
Operational efficiency is vital at Orion City. Our in-house facility management team provides 24/7 support, helping tenants customize their spaces and ensuring smooth operations and minimal disruptions. The Automated Building Management System further streamlines operations, optimizing the functionality and efficiency of all systems.
Infrastructure and utilities are a priority, with ample parking, a CEB substation, backup generators, and advanced IT infrastructure ensuring uninterrupted power and data services, essential in a fast-paced business world. Comprehensive security measures safeguard the workplace, offering peace of mind and contributing to a productive and secure environment. Orion City’s dedication to these aspects demonstrates our unwavering commitment to creating an optimal work setting.
What future sustainability initiatives are planned at Orion City?
Orion City’s sustainability strategy is rooted in environmental stewardship, focusing on resource efficiency and ecological care. Key to our plans is transitioning to renewable energy, particularly solar power, by installing solar panels to reduce reliance on traditional energy sources. Our goal for Phase II of Orion Tower is to achieve LEED Platinum certification setting a high standard in sustainable building practices.
We’re innovating in water management with interconnected rainwater runoff tanks, using this water for garden irrigation and outdoor cleaning to cut down on potable water use. Additionally, we’re increasing tree coverage and plant density in open spaces to enhance aesthetics, air quality, and biodiversity.
Our sustainable initiatives include using harvested rainwater for irrigation, surface cleaning, cooling systems, and reusing AC drain line water. Energy efficiency is a priority, with plans to implement solar PV systems, high SHGC glazing, and double glazing to optimize energy use.
We’re committed to indoor air quality, using low-VOC materials and integrating AI for energy-efficient building management and natural light optimization. Finally, our waste management approach, compliant with ISO 14001 standards, includes designated disposal units for different waste types, further reducing our environmental impact.
How is Orion City planning to continue its efforts to uplift the lifestyles of the neighbourhood and broader society?
Orion City’s strategic vision focuses on improving neighbourhood and societal lifestyles through a comprehensive approach. We aim to enhance public engagement by integrating our site with the public realm, adding outdoor dining, shaded areas, and a community-engaging plaza. Committed to social upliftment, we provide employment opportunities, support for working parents with in-house childcare, and promote community health education.
Prioritizing health, safety, and fair treatment, Orion City fosters an inclusive environment, offering educational initiatives like facility management tours and enriching programmes. Our governance includes conducting energy audits, upholding clear policies, and adhering to ethical standards, enhancing societal impact. Risk management strategies, including comprehensive insurance and regular maintenance, demonstrate our commitment to community well-being and infrastructure longevity.