Insights

In today’s dynamic corporate landscape, prioritising sustainability isn’t just a choice, it’s an essential commitment for businesses, particularly those situated in urban areas.

For businesses to reach full ESG (environmental, social, and governance) credentials, they must be in an office space that embodies eco-design and structure.

The Government’s ‘Together for our Planet’ campaign encourages companies to integrate net-zero plans into their business models by 2050, preferably sooner. This shows a significant shift in environmental decision-making in the workplace. Buildings account for 40% of all CO2 emissions, with real estate contributing to 18% in the U.K alone. Thus, introducing ESG initiatives in workplaces has become imperative.

But what specific ESG initiative should companies consider?

• Environmental design efforts involve switching up resources for better energy use and efficiency, such as improved building insulation or regular audits of energy use. Identifying where you can switch out poorly made materials for renewable, eco-friendly materials is important. Environmental efforts also include water efficiency initiatives and operating waste management systems effectively.
• Social impacts revolve around the well-being of the workforce. It is important to incorporate a design and office build centred on health, inclusion, and support for the diverse needs of the workforce. This includes offering breathable breakout spaces, including biophilic design elements, fitness facilities, and much more. Having a strong ethos for healthy company culture and encouraging a work-life balance lies under this jurisdiction.
• Governance involves actively addressing issues like ethics, transparency, diversity, and sustainability. Fostering a culture where directors/leaders are open to criticism, seek growth and prioritise transparency is crucial.

Other influential factors such as technology and the growing importance of well-being in the office shape the evolution of eco-friendly office design. Cleantech emerges as a pivotal force, leveraging renewable energy sources and technologies like AI to manage electrical supplies and boost efficiency.

In an era where green ideologies intertwine with the workplace, the absence of eco-initiatives can exacerbate stress and anxiety among the workforce. Incorporating environmental design and health initiatives in office spaces reduces eco-anxiety, creating a healthy working environment.

As businesses race towards a greener and well-being-focused future, working with office providers who adopt green building standards and certifications like BREEAM, LEED, SKA, and WELL becomes crucial. This not only propels businesses’ journey towards achieving net-zero emissions but also fosters a culture of environmental consciousness within the workplace.

• BREEAM was created out of cost-effective recognition of sustainable development. BREEAM is a testament to prioritising the planet’s well-being in the workplace and also incorporates prioritising the workforce’s health and well-being through its rating system. 
• LEED is an internationally recognised green building rating system. This is not as widely used in the U.K due to British legislation differences as BREEAM is more in keeping with this. 
• SKA is another eco-rating organisation. What sets it apart from BREEAM and LEED is that it was developed through the collaborative effort of designers, contractors, corporate occupiers, managing agents, and consultants. SKA is also purely project-driven and only covers fit-out and refurbishments. Whereas BREEAM and LEED focus on sustainability and apply to all phases of the build and cover new builds and fit-out/refurbishments. 
• WELL, sits comfortably in it’s lane as it’s assessment focuses on enhancing people’s health and well-being through the built environment in the workplace. 

It is now mandatory for all commercial properties up for rent or sale, to complete their EPC (energy performance certificate), where the buildings’ energy efficiency will be graded. Integrating BREEAM, LEED, SKA or WELL increases the provider’s chance of a high rating.

In today’s corporate landscape, prioritising sustainability is paramount for businesses striving to minimise their environmental impact and embrace eco-conscious practices. Incorporating frameworks such as BREEAM, LEED, SKA, and WELL into operations not only aligns with these objectives but also fosters a positive reputation and competitive edge. For new office constructions, integrating these methodologies at the core is strongly advised.

In Central London, office spaces with BREEAM certification can command rents up to 12.3% higher, reflecting the market’s recognition of sustainable practices. It’s worth noting that around 4 in 10 companies have publicly announced their commitment to achieving net-zero emissions, with a significant portion aiming to reach this milestone by 2030.

By embracing sustainability initiatives, workspaces will not only contribute to environmental preservation but also enhance their financial performance and appeal to eco-conscious businesses. As the global shift towards sustainability grows, prioritising eco-friendly practices becomes increasingly imperative for long-term success in the corporate world.

As we navigate the corporate world transitioning into the intricate landscape of green standards, one thing becomes abundantly clear – the integration of said organisations is more than a choice; it is a commitment to a brighter, more sustainable future for businesses and the planet we all call home.  

Please visit BREEAM, LEED, SKA, or WELL for information on how to maximise your chances of becoming completely eco-friendly in the workspace.

Written by Olivia Hunt