An article discusses the must haves of sustainability in the office environment.
GlassonWeb wrote that many companies are implementing a greener office as awareness of corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become part of legislation and anticipate that there will be more to come in the future.
Energy efficiency is part and parcel of business today and the article noted that there are six ways to develop a sustainable office the first being smarter windows that can go from transparent to opaque without affecting light which will reduce energy costs by reducing heat and glare in the office.
Secondly, good insulation will reduce heating bills and maintain a “uniform temperature” within the building. While the third idea was to incorporate recycling in the office which contributes to the carbon footprint and using designs from recycled materials is cost effective and good for the “well being of the occupants”. By using recycled fabrics and plastics for furnishing and floors toxins in the air are reduced.
The fourth implementation suggested having a roof that could be used for growing plants and having solar panels in place for renewable energy added to which the vegetation would prevent water running off the roof in extreme weather. Roofs can also be made of switchable glass in the same way as windows and can be made with specialised electrical glass for solar energy.
Number five was to change to greener lighting as according to the article “a total of 15 to 30 percent of energy costs are tied to lighting” so switching to LED light bulbs saves energy as they only consume 10 percent of energy compared to traditional light bulbs. In future carbon based OLED bulbs will save even more but in the meantime, employees should remember to turn off lights not being used.
Lastly, the article suggests saving water by installing “low-flow faucets, toilets and urinals” and discovering ways to reuse storm water will save money and energy.
Greener offices are not helping the environment they also help businesses to save money in the long term.