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Unlocking the potential of green buildings with IFM

02 August 2019

Climate change is one of the most pressing global environmental challenges facing the world today. As the world's population increases, the demand for residential and commercial infrastructure is only set to grow, along with the need for climate control mitigation.

Green buildings are the key to neutralise or mitigate the effects of climate change. A green building is characterised by minimum, efficient use of resources; waste and pollution reduction; high indoor-air quality; and as much renewable energy, non-toxic and sustainable materials, occupant quality of life, and environmental adaptation as possible.

Organisations are increasingly unlocking the potential of green buildings through integrated facilities management (IFM) services. Here are some measures that IFM players implement towards enhancing the environmental performance of existing buildings:

1. Use of energy-efficient equipment

Replacing old and inefficient fixtures with energy-efficient equipment can make a significant difference in energy consumption in existing buildings. For instance, energy-efficient light bulbs such as halogen incandescent fittings, compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) use 25-80% less energy than the traditional incandescent fittings. Further, they last up to 3-25 times longer. Although the initial costs are higher than the conventional fittings, energy-efficient lighting is a better option in the long run. The total cost of ownership (TCO) is much lower in the long run.

Likewise, equipment with energy-saving star ratings, low-flow water fixtures etc. can prove to be a pocket- and eco-friendly choice over traditional counterparts. Further, timely replacement of faulty fixtures and equipment is a vital energy-conservation as well as safety measure.

2. Recycling of resources

Recycling is essential because it reduces the unsustainable practice of diverting waste to landfills. Beyond this, it also helps in reducing energy consumption and decreased greenhouse emissions. From paper to electronic waste to water and energy, every aspect of an organisation’s resources should be assessed carefully for recycling opportunities.

Rainwater harvesting, construction of organic-waste convertors, reusing treated wastewater are some of the prominent ways in which IFM partners work towards increasing the efficiency of their properties.

3. Introduction of green policies

Simple green policies also have a significant impact on the performance efficiency of a facility. Some policy ideas at commercial buildings include offering incentives for ride-sharing and public transportation, decreasing the amounts of junk mail output, garbage segregation, conducting recycling drives, use of biodegradable and environmentally responsible materials wherever possible etc.

Besides, commercial and residential facilities can support electric car movement by facilitating charging points in parking lots.

Regular efforts towards these initiatives at an individual-level is the need of the hour. It has the potential to culminate into significant sustainable outcomes over the long run.

4. Data-driven insights

Today, with technology-led interventions in facilities management, organisations are enabling eco-friendly buildings. At the same time, it is protecting the infrastructure and occupants, minimising staff requirements and enhancing operational efficiencies. At the crux of the modern facilities management systems is data collected from sensors. This includes data on occupancy rates, air quality, temperature, and so on.

The data translates into insights, which help IFM players in enhancing the performance efficiency of a building. Strategies such as predictive maintenance and optimised energy-usage based on usage patterns help in these efforts.

An IFM player can implement the above practices in line with the organisational objectives and contribute to the sustainability of operations. The advantage of green practices is that they do not require a grandiose budget. Instead, they can be implemented using simple techniques. When done right, their potential impact is remarkable.

An ESPL Expert can walk you through green building implementation processes. We can put an integrated approach into place that helps achieve your organisation’s sustainability goals. To start a conversation, click here.

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