City of Atlanta | 21
some 39 percent of recycled material, but
has committed to 80 percent recycled con-
tent by 2020. Novelis has begun investments
totaling some $1.4 billion for operational
expansions and increased recycling capac-
ity needed to not only help meet expected
demands in the aluminum market, but also
fulfill their recycling targets.
• Perkins+Will, a global leader in archi-
tectural and design services, has also been
ostentatious in supporting Atlanta’s sustain-
ability goals. Renovations to the firm’s of-
fices located at 1315 Peachtree have not only
achieved energy reductions of 58 percent,
but principals also installed an employee gar-
den, energy efficient technology resources,
and a multi-purpose, flexible workplace de-
sign. The renovations led to the firm earning
LEED Platinum distinction with a score of
95, which now makes them the record hold-
er and top performer in the system affiliated
with the U.S. Green Building Council.
These are just a few examples, for as
Quarles says, sustainability practices can be
increasingly found throughout all residen-
tial and professional communities of At-
lanta. Collectively, those efforts are helping
reduce water and electricity consumption,
reduce operational costs, improve air qual-
ity and all while creating jobs in the process.
“We’re moving in the right direction,” says
Quarles, adding that anytime communities
can be united around common goals, and
the more means are provided for people to
get engaged and involved, the more likely it
is for objectives to be achieved.”
That does sometime come with some-
what of a learning curve observes Quarles.
She says while individuals may not necessar-
ily understand the complexities of science
relating to climate change, urban heat island
or ecosystems, they do readily relate to ideas
that impart means to reduce energy costs or
make the air more breathable, or less stifling
with heat. Quarles says as understanding ad-
vances, so too will efforts to enhance exist-
ing programs even as new initiatives are ad-
opted. “Energy conservation is a priority for
Atlanta and our collective efforts can have a
tremendous impact. We encourage residents
and businesses to join us in this effort and our
overall sustainability initiatives,” adds Mayor
Kasim Reed. “The partnership between our
businesses, universities, neighboring govern-
ments, and non-profits will keep Atlanta in
the lead.
