As much as one third of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions come from buildings through energy generation and consumption. Greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide trap heat in the atmosphere which contribute to global warming. Scientists have reported that 2016 was the hottest year on record.
While policies have been established to combat global warming, companies and commercial real estate (CRE) operators can help lessen its effects on the environment and improve building efficiency by taking action. Smart energy solutions can be put in place that will be beneficial to both the environment and the business.
Here are five ways that building operators can improve the efficiency of buildings and reduce their carbon footprint:
1. Invest in renewable energy – building operators can use renewable energy sources such as solar panels to generate electricity. Solar power does not harm the environment as it has little to no carbon emissions.
2. Use energy-efficient products – landlords can equip the building with motion light systems and occupancy sensors for energy efficiency. Sensors adjust the amount of artificial light in a room depending on the distribution of sunlight and the number of occupants in the room through the day.
Operators can also make use of consumer products stamped with the Energy Star seal. The Energy Star certification is a guarantee that the products are energy-efficient and cost-effective.
3. Effective management and disposal of wastes – waste reduction and recycling programs can be implemented to conserve energy and natural resources. Waste water recycling, paperless campaigns and use of eco-friendly products are alternative ways of making buildings more sustainable.
4. Improve indoor environmental quality (IEQ) – buildings can also be optimized with the occupants’ health and well-being in mind. Regulating temperature, improving ventilation and lighting, and reducing exposure to noise and harmful chemicals that emit toxic materials can result in a healthier and more productive environment for workers.
5. Design with safety and resilience in mind – with natural disasters becoming frequent in recent years, architects and interior designers can come up with designs that will keep the building, its occupants and assets safe from floods, earthquakes and extreme weather conditions.
Facility managers can also help by keeping critical office assets away from lower floors and flood zones. Old buildings can be retrofitted with modern provisions to make them more resilient.
Providing smart energy solutions to businesses has always been part of Cushman & Wakefield’s commitment to support a more sustainable future. Our governing policies on responsible energy and resource management help our partners maximize their potential and achieve business goals.
Enhancing the quality of buildings through sustainable practices also help businesses add more value to their investments.