Sustainability in facilities management is the maintenance and creation of conditions that consider the needs of present and future generations’ economic, social, and environmental requirements. New and innovative ways for planning, constructing, and managing buildings are developed constantly to keep up with these demands and better align with corporate ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) strategies..
With the current supply chain conditions and struggles of recovering since the COVID shutdowns, facilities management has seen the trickle-down effect with increases in waste and decreased inefficiency. With products low in stock, cargo stuck at ports, driver shortages undermining your team’s supplies, and increased prices, there is little room for revolution in improving sustainability in facilities management.
FMLink.com states, “Through a systematic evaluation of current facility management processes and procedures, based on experience, best practices, benchmarks, and industry standards, a facility management organization can put themselves on track to providing high-performance facility services.” As the pandemic is ending, facility managers need to develop a solid plan moving forward to improve the overall sustainability of facilities management.
Take Deliberate Steps to Improve Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Services With Focused Partnerships
Sustainability in facilities management is about strategic moves. A direct and deliberate game plan is needed. Sustainability is not just a fad or a buzzword; It is the newest trend quickly dominating customer needs and demands.
According to research by Nielsen, almost half (48 percent) of US consumers would change their spending habits to reduce their environmental footprint. It’s expected that shoppers will consume up to $150 billion on sustainable and environmentally friendly products. Statistics are proving that consumers are putting their mouths are. They support sustainability and environmental changes and follow through in their spending habits.
Consumer spending habits and desire for eco-friendly products flow over into sustainable facilities. Facility managers can meet these demands by following a few actionable steps.
Purchase and Utilize Energy-Efficient Equipment in Every Aspect of Facility Management
Energy-efficient technology makes it possible to be more resourceful, efficient, and effective. This lowers the use of gasoline, workforce, and overall costs. Upgrading appliances and systems such as the HVAC and electrical systems and installing insulation will significantly reduce the facility’s carbon footprint. Implementing renewable energy, such as solar energy, is another excellent alternative. Sustainability in facilities management is a continuous process that includes everything from using supplies and resources to purchasing cars to routine maintenance and administration.
Be Mindful of Day-to-Day Environmental Impacts
An often overlooked a simple task is switching out cleaning supplies. Most traditional cleaning supplies are full of hazardous toxins, not only for the environment but for humans. Consider swapping these harsh products with green, eco-friendly products and supplies.
Consider fuel type and use, vehicle emissions, and other environmental impacts that can quickly add up. Another simple way to stay mindful of day-to-day ecological impacts is to offer recycling stations throughout the facility.
Set Goals and Hold Regular reports and Updates to Stay on Track
Analyze data and usage to see where energy is wasted and make adjustments to decrease your carbon footprint. With this information at hand, it is easy to see if equipment needs to be repaired or replaced with a more energy-efficient option. The goal is to balance sustainability in facilities management and production, which necessitates everyone’s cooperation. To accommodate growth, set goals, monitor metrics, and communicate with teams and third parties as it relates to broader ESG targets.
Provide Adequate Training and Resource Access for Team Members
Set goals and communicate these goals to the team. Ensure all team members are fully and adequately trained to meet the goals of the facilities manager. Train them to understand what to look for and how to identify issues and solve the problem. Being fully transparent about the importance of sustainability is critical. Ensure the tools and resources are readily available to team members to meet the sustainability goals.
Partner With SMG Today to Improve Sustainability in Facilities Management Practices
As global efforts are made to protect the current and future global environment and companies establish ESG strategies, sustainability in facilities management will continue to redefine traditional workflows and standards of maintenance. Facility managers should not take the effects of a facility’s carbon footprint lightly. With the implementation of ESG strategies, energy efficiency appliances, eco-friendly products, “green” contractors, and proactive scheduled maintenance, sustainability is attainable—partner with SMG Facilities today to improve the sustainability of your facilities’ management practices.
