IMA Architects Joins Architects Declare

Our commitment to a sustainable future

The built environment has a profound impact on our planet and accounts for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions. We are committed to promoting environmental sustainability in all aspects of our work. Through responsible practice and innovative design, we aim to reduce environmental impact, enhance building performance, and contribute to a sustainable future.

That’s why we’ve signed up to Architects Declare – a collective of practices across the UK who are joining forces to tackle the climate and biodiversity crisis head-on. By joining, we stand alongside hundreds of practices who share the same vision: to transform the way we design and build, for the benefit of people and the planet.

So… What Exactly Is Architects Declare?

Great question! In short, it’s a pledge. Everyone who signs up commits to designing with the planet in mind – cutting carbon, reducing waste and protecting biodiversity.

Launched in 2019, Architects Declare is a community of practices that commit to taking positive action in response to climate change. Members commit to working towards net zero carbon, promoting regenerative design, minimising waste, and collaborating across the industry to drive meaningful change.

It’s about looking beyond the “now” of a project and making choices that also make sense for the next 10, 20, or even 50 years.

Why We’re Excited About This

As an architectural practice, it is important that sustainability is at the heart of what we do. From designing efficient logistics facilities to advising clients on long-term environmental benefits, we are continually seeking ways to reduce the carbon footprint of our projects while maximising value for our clients.

For us, this is about:

• Exploring ways to bring more sustainable thinking into our projects.
• Working with clients, consultants, and contractors to identify opportunities for low-carbon solutions.
• Learning from others in the network and sharing ideas that can inspire positive change.

It’s not about having all the answers, it’s about taking steps in the right direction, building on what we already do well, and keeping an open mind about how we can do better. This isn’t a tick-box exercise for us but a step forward in strengthening our culture of responsibility, innovation, and care for the environment.

What This Means for Our Clients

For our clients, signing up to Architects Declare doesn’t change the way we deliver projects – it builds on it. We will continue to design buildings that are efficient, practical, and cost-effective, while also taking into account how they can perform better for the environment in the long term. This means considering opportunities for energy savings, reducing waste, and ensuring projects are resilient to future environmental and regulatory changes.

Architects Declare 5-year impact report

Architects Declare has just released its 5-Year Impact Report, celebrating five years of inspiring architects and practices to take action on climate, biodiversity, and social justice. Over the past half-decade, the network has grown massively, uniting thousands of signatories across the UK and internationally, all committed to making the built environment more sustainable and socially responsible. The report is full of interesting milestones, from guides and resources that help practices reduce their carbon footprints, to campaigns that have sparked real conversations at the highest levels of government. It’s a fascinating look at how collective action can create meaningful change in our industry. If you want to read it for yourself, you can check out the full report here Impact Report – our first five years | UK Architects Declare Climate and Biodiversity Emergency

Looking Ahead

Signing Architects Declare is just the beginning. We are excited to continue this journey, building on our existing expertise and learning from others in the network.

Together with our clients and collaborators, we will keep pushing for projects that are not only successful today but stand as responsible contributions to a sustainable future.

We welcome conversations with clients, partners, and peers who want to explore how sustainability can shape their projects. If you’d like to learn more about our approach or how we can help you achieve your environmental goals, please get in touch.