Construction and design professionals are regularly faced with the opportunity to impact the way that their clients think about sustainable construction. But, with a little additional knowledge, all of us can be spokespersons for sustainability.
While reducing environmental impact is arguably the noblest aspect of green design and construction, there are other admirable points which will likely appeal to today’s decision makers. As the media regularly drives green to the forefront of our minds and countless companies share their environmental policies, all organizations should understand the positive ramifications available through sustainable planning, design and construction.
Cost savings are a proven benefit
Energy efficiency is a cost-effective, sustainable building benefit. Evaluating the entire HVAC and insulation systems from a high performance and sustainable vantage point will help to ensure the system is right-sized and operates at peak efficiency. Excess capacity will not only cost more upfront, but lead to inefficient use and higher ongoing utility costs. An expert in sustainable building and mechanical design can ensure that the system you choose provides ultimate efficiency and cost savings throughout the life of your building.
Natural lighting is another benefit and an essential ingredient to the perceived quality of most working spaces. Well-placed natural light reduces the amount of artificial lighting required. Providing skylights in atriums and windows throughout a building permits natural light to influence the feel and performance of the structure. It is important, however, to select high-performance glass or to shade windows to prevent excessive solar heat gain.
In addition, there are important considerations when it comes to choosing artificial light. Placement of light fixtures, appropriate for the intended use, is a significant factor. Utilizing LED (light emitting diodes) lamps, fluorescent bulbs, automatic shut-off switches and motion detectors, can result in reducing electricity costs significantly.
Another opportunity to reduce operating costs can be found by controlling water use inside and outside the building. Water-efficient fixtures reduce water costs inside, while planting indigenous plants outside will reduce the need for irrigation. These two easy solutions can save you money year after year.
But, energy efficiency and cost savings are just a few of the benefits of sustainable construction and choices.
New customers expected
Research and surveys consistently confirm that consumers, especially the younger generations, reward organizations which are environmentally responsible. Once a company makes genuine strides to become a more sustainable company, these accomplishments should be communicated to their workforce, clients, potential customers, the local community as well as other key stakeholders in their industry.
Workforce impact
Building-related illnesses cost organizations tens of billions of dollars each year
Retaining employees and maximizing productivity are factors that C-suite executives should constantly watch. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reported that building-related illnesses cost organizations tens of billions of dollars each year. Many companies have discovered that improvements in air quality, lighting, and other high-performance (green) features reduce absenteeism and increase productivity.
In addition, when potential employees are considering their employment options, features like natural light and a comfortable, well-designed work environment are factors that are likely to be weighed in their decision making process. In fact, a poll by Mortgage Lenders Network USA discovered that 94 percent of Americans prefer to work in a setting that is designed to be energy efficient and ecologically sound.
Impacting the triple bottom line
Guiding others to use sustainable planning, design and construction will impact the triple bottom line: quality for the users, positive effect on the environment, and financial rewards. Make it a point to have an impact by being a spokesperson for sustainability.
Sam Statz (samstatz@hoffman.net) is the director of construction services for Hoffman LLC, a Wisconsin-based planning, architecture, and construction management firm that integrates a holistic approach to sustainability into its innovative project delivery method, Total Project Management. A contributing author for the “Contractor’s Companion” handbook reference guide and a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED®) Accredited Professional, Sam has presented on multiple occasions the topic of sustainability and the positive effects it can have on both a building project and the organization within.
