Every day in a well-designed, eco-conscious workplace feels like a breath of fresh air.
According to a 2023 UK report, entitled Design of The Workplace, 93% of individuals working in environmentally friendly offices report feeling happier in their jobs. Plus, sustainable workplace design was shown to boost productivity and promote wellbeing in general.
The growing importance of sustainable workplace design is further underscored by a 2021 Deloitte report entitled A Call for Accountability and Action. The report says 1 in 3 Gen Z and Millennial employees would turn down job opportunities with companies that don’t align with their values – while 54% would take a pay cut for the sake of Environmental, Social, and Governance concerns.
Cultivate a workplace that’s a magnet for top talent
Exploring a company’s green credentials is a practice that is becoming commonplace in Gen Z and Millennial job-hunting, making it an issue that employers must take seriously.
As such, businesses are increasingly recognizing the importance of integrating sustainable design principles and practices into their workplace environments to attract and retain this generation of workers.
Here are 10 ways you can do this, drawing from industry insights and best practices. Let’s dive in…
1. Establish your company’s sustainability objectives
A good place to start is by setting clear sustainability objectives for your workplace design project. Define the level of sustainability you aim to achieve and identify key priorities, such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, and employee wellbeing. Consider pursuing green building certifications such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) to demonstrate the company’s commitment to sustainability. Achieving certification can also lead to cost savings through energy efficiency measures and tax incentives. Employing a workplace design partner? Collaborate with them to integrate your sustainability goals into the project’s overall framework.
2. Choose sustainable materials and finishes
Opting for eco-friendly materials and products where possible is essential for creating a sustainable office environment. Consider using low volatile organic compound (VOC) emitting paints and finishes to improve indoor air quality, and prioritize products with sustainability credentials, such as FSC and PEFC certifications for timber.
Opt for materials such as recycled wood, bamboo, and cork, which not only minimize environmental impact but also contribute to a healthier indoor air quality for employees.
Collaborate with your design partner to integrate sustainable materials from the outset of the project, considering both environmental impact and carbon footprint.
3. Incorporate sustainable furniture
Choose office furniture made from sustainable materials and produced using eco-friendly manufacturing processes. Look for pieces that are recyclable, durable, and free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde.
4. Implement waste reduction strategies
Discuss waste reduction initiatives such as recycling programs, composting, and reusable dishware and utensils in office kitchens and breakrooms.
On a micro level, you can encourage employees to minimize paper usage and embrace digital alternatives whenever possible.
5. Embrace Biophilic design
Bring nature indoors by incorporating plants and biophilic design elements into office spaces. Greenery not only enhances aesthetics but as countless studies have shown also promotes mental well-being, reduces stress, and increases productivity among employees.
6. Focus on lighting and energy efficiency
Switching to LED lighting fixtures and installing motion sensors can significantly reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills. Additionally, maximizing natural light through strategic window placement and skylights can create a more pleasant and productive workspace.
Additionally, consider options such as zonal lighting with individual controls, and task lighting to optimize energy use. You could also explore circadian lighting systems that mimic natural sunlight to improve mood, productivity, and concentration among employees.
7. Foster a culture with sustainability at its heart
Do this by engaging employees in sustainable initiatives and practices – and providing them with the right amenities. You can encourage employees to reduce their carbon footprint, for example, by offering incentives for using alternative transportation methods such as biking, carpooling, or using public transit. You can then support this with design – delivering designated bike racks, showers, and changing facilities.
Offering spaces dedicated to wellbeing and self-care – from gyms to cafe areas and chillout zones – is another win-win. These spaces make employees feel cared for – plus, team members don’t need to take a car or bus to get there.
8. Relocating? Choose an environmentally sustainable building
If you’re looking to move to a new site then selecting a building with internationally recognized sustainability accreditations, such as BREEAM or LEED, lays the foundation for a sustainable workplace. These accreditations validate the building’s environmental performance and help manage cost efficiency within the property. Consider factors such as energy efficiency, carbon emissions, natural lighting, air quality, and water usage when choosing a new building.
9. Optimize on-site delivery during any design or build
Prioritize sustainable practices for on-site delivery and waste management. Work closely with your fit-out partner to ensure proper recycling and disposal of materials, minimizing waste sent to landfills. Meanwhile, focus on reusing or upcycling any existing furniture and fixtures to further reduce your project’s environmental footprint.
10. Collaborate with eco-conscious partners
Partner with workplace designers, sustainability organizations and charities to further your environmental impact and support sustainability initiatives. Consider initiatives like tree planting programs, carbon offset projects, and partnerships with environmental nonprofits to enhance your company’s sustainability efforts. Engage employees in these initiatives and to foster a sense of community and collective responsibility towards sustainability.
In conclusion
Implementing sustainable design principles in the workplace not only benefits the environment but also enhances workplace wellbeing and your reputation as a forward-thinking employer – essential for attracting the next generation of top talent. And you can get on the path to achieving this by prioritizing sustainability objectives, choosing environmentally sustainable buildings, and incorporating sustainable materials and practices.
Ready to transform your workplace? Let us help you design and build an office that aligns with your values and attracts top talent. Contact us today to get started on your journey towards a greener, more sustainable future.