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About ZGF Architects
ZGF Architects is a leading global architecture firm known for designs that reflect the deep connection between buildings, people, and the environment. Their work envisions a carbon-neutral future, positioning them at the forefront of sustainable design.
The firm is committed to the AIA 2030 Challenge, COP26 Communique, the LFRT “Countdown on Carbon”, and was the first architecture firm member of the World Economic Forum’s First Movers Coalition. ZGF is also a founding participant in the U.S. Green Building Council’s LEED v1.0 and a Just Organization through the International Living Future Institute.
"At ZGF Architects, our clients trust us to advise on holistic sustainability goals with authenticity and credibility. Our commitment to cut emissions 55% by 2030 is central to our climate strategy and deepens our expertise as we decarbonize operations. By calculating our footprint and setting a carbon offset budget, we're able to assign real value to emissions, strengthen reduction strategies, and invest in projects and technologies that go beyond operational efficiency."
- William Callahan, Chief of Staff, ZGF Architects
The Challenge
Sustainability has long been central to ZGF’s ethos. But as climate-conscious clients began asking about the emissions of their vendors, including architects, ZGF recognized the importance of measuring and reducing its own operational footprint.
As the team dug into their emissions, they recognized that while reductions were possible, eliminating 100% of emissions was not yet feasible due to technological limitations. Rather than waiting years for zero-emission solutions, ZGF chose to start offsetting unavoided emissions through high-integrity carbon credits.
Entering the voluntary carbon market for the first time, ZGF found the landscape complex. Evaluating quality, sourcing projects, and navigating reporting standards posed significant challenges.
The Solution: Partnering with CNaught
In 2024, ZGF selected CNaught as a carbon credit portfolio provider, impressed by CNaught’s rigorous quality standards, transparency, and ease of use.
With CNaught, ZGF achieved:
Key benefits included:
“CNaught’s due diligence process and curated portfolio made it easy to trust that we were purchasing a high-quality, well-balanced set of projects with maximum climate impact for our dollars, while alleviating concerns of greenwashing. By consolidating purchases through CNaught, we’ve saved a lot of valuable time and gained a clear, credible strategy that lives up to the expectations of our leadership, staff, and clients.”
- William Callahan, Chief of Staff, ZGF Architects
Impact in Action
By addressing its own operational emissions, ZGF has deepened its expertise and credibility in advising clients on sustainability strategies.
Since 2024, ZGF has offset 5,120 tonnes of carbon emissions through CNaught, and 10,100 tonnes total through additional projects such as the Cheakamus Community Forest Carbon Project, Tradewater OOG 2, and the Kamiranga Ceramic Fuel Switching Project. Moving forward, the firm plans to continue its offsetting program, recognizing its role in strengthening client relationships and enhancing brand positioning in an increasingly climate-conscious marketplace.
Ready to Take Action?
Learn more at www.cnaught.com or schedule time with our team to learn more about how we can help your firm meet its own climate goals.
