Juggling the day-to-day of keeping your office or building running smoothly can be a hassle! Being a facility manager requires you to optimize your space to make it not just functional but also eco-friendly. Does it mean sacrificing sustainability? There are plenty of ways to create greener and sustainable workplaces without breaking the bank.
In this write-up, let us explore some actionable tips to help you transform your workplace into a breathable eco-conscious space using a building management system.
Why Go Green? 7 Steps to Sustainability in the Workplace
A certified facility manager holds the key to creating and implementing environmentally sustainable practices that align with the company.
how do you improve sustainability in the workplace that benefits both your organization and the planet? It is left to the facility manager to ponder upon individually tailored strategies for implementing sustainability in the workplace. it could be drilled down to the industry/business you are working for.
From reducing energy consumption to fostering social sustainability, there are numerous ways a facility manager can bring about a positive impact. Here's why going green is a smart move for your building:
Save capital and show commitment: Eco-friendly practices often translate to lowering energy and water bills. It is also a smart move to showcase to the world your commitment to a smart future.
Employee confidence: Many individuals appreciate and are confident working in a space that reflects a commitment to the environment. A healthy work environment always supersedes a hazardous/toxic one.
Attract and retain top talent: Sustainability plays a prominent role and is sought as increasingly important to job seekers. It impacts the experience and hence, a space that values them will be considered over the others.
Sustainable strategies have been implemented for several decades now, but with innovation and technology seeping in, they have become proven solutions to decrease the wrath of pollution and globalization. Read more here.
7 Simple Steps to Creating a Sustainable Workplace:
1. Lighten up with LED:
Ensure to switch to energy-efficient LED light bulbs and encourage employees to turn off lights in unoccupied spaces. You may consider using smart sensors and also utilize the power of natural light whenever possible.
Switching to energy-efficient lighting saves $178.50 annually,.) totaling over $6,000 in savings during home ownership, at $0.10 per kWh.
Did you know you can monitor your facility without stepping into the facility? Read more on IoT remote monitoring here.
2. Conserving water:
Install low-flow faucets and lavatories and invest in fixing leaky fixtures promptly to ensure there is no spillage. Another step is to encourage briefer showers in employee locker rooms and washrooms.
3. Power down and save:
Promote a "power down" culture by encouraging employees to turn off electronics when not in use - such as laptops, coffee machines, microwaves, etc. Furthermore, a small act of installing occupancy sensors to monitor the usage of empty rooms would aid in cost-saving opportunities. These sensors turn off automatically when not in use and have saved several thousand for owners.
4. Recycle right:
Set up a clear and accessible recycling system for paper, plastic, and other materials and educate employees on proper recycling practices. Give separate bins and sorting options in every corner of the office space, so waste management is considered a mandatory practice. Also, invest in sustainable building materials and sustainable best practices.
5. Embrace reusables:
There are several environmentally sustainable workplace practices and one of them can be discouraging the usage of single-use plastics. The company can set initiatives by offering reusable water bottles and coffee mugs. Also, promote the use of recycled paper products within the space.
6. Think green when cleaning:
Opt for eco-friendly cleaning products that are safe for people and the environment. Lesser chemicals leach into the air and even less to the lungs. Read more on employee well-being and statistics regarding the air quality leading and health of the residents/employees of the building.
7. Plant more and manage waste:
Explore composting options for food scraps and yard waste. Donate old furniture or electronics instead of throwing them away. Ensure to add indoor plants to your office space as they not only improve air quality but also create a more calming atmosphere.
Do you know you can reap numerous benefits with sustainable building certifications?
What are the most prominent certifications available in the US? Read here.
