its digital addressable lighting interface system, thereby contributing to energy saving. All light fittings are equipped with motion sensors and daylight dimmers, and motion sensors have been installed in the ATW parkade to further minimise energy consumption. Absa utilises environmentally friendly construction material and the latest in air-conditioning in the form of the HVAC system. “In designing ATW, which houses over 3 000 colleagues, we

carefully considered global best practices in order to maximise the aesthetics and functionality of the building, whilst delivering improved efficiencies,” said Ms Ramos. Ergonometrics are world class and there are many refreshment counter, quiet rooms and rest areas scattered throughout the building. The design includes a state of the art gym and fitness centre. The building boasts the largest grey water system in

South Africa, which contributes to the reduction of water consumption by recycling 43 000 litres (43 m³) of water a day. This system captures and filters rain water and water from the

gym showers to flush the toilets in the building. Absa Group Limited (Absa), listed on the JSE Limited, is one of South Africa’s largest financial services groups offering a complete range of banking, insurance and wealth management products and services. Absa’s business is conducted primarily in South Africa. It also has equity holdings in banks in Mozambique and Tanzania and representative offices in Namibia and Nigeria. As at 30 June 2011, the Group has 718,2 million shares in issue and a market capitalisation of R96,8 billion. The Group had assets of R716 billion, 12,3 million customers, 9,288 automated teller machines and 36,535 permanent employees. Absa is a subsidiary of Barclays Bank PLC, which holds a stake of 55,5% in the Group. Barclays is a major global financial services provider engaged in retail and commercial banking, credit cards, investment banking, wealth management and investment management services with an extensive international presence.

Absa Towers West has been built in line with the South African Green codes and it is a demonstration of the Group’s commitment towards sustainable development.

“The uncreative mind can spot wrong answers, but it takes a very creative mind to spot wrong questions.” – Anthony Jay

September 2011 | Management Today 45