Green design principles are not only good for the environment, but also for your productivity, health, and creativity. By applying some simple strategies, you can transform your office space into a more sustainable, efficient, and enjoyable place to work. Here are some tips on how to do it.
When you need to buy or replace furniture, equipment, or supplies, look for options that are made from recycled, renewable, or biodegradable materials. For example, you can opt for bamboo or cork desks, chairs made from recycled plastic or fabric, and paper products that are certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Avoid materials that contain toxic chemicals, such as formaldehyde, PVC, or flame retardants, as they can harm your health and the environment.
One of the easiest ways to save energy and money is to switch to LED or CFL light bulbs, which use less electricity and last longer than incandescent ones. You can also install motion sensors or timers to turn off lights when they are not needed, and use natural light as much as possible. Another tip is to unplug devices and appliances when they are not in use, or use power strips with switches to cut off the standby power. Additionally, you can adjust your thermostat settings to reduce heating and cooling costs, and invest in energy-efficient models if you need to replace your old ones.
The easiest way to reduce energy consumption is to manage it centrally via an energy management system integrated with your building management system. Of course, this requires some level of capital investment, and integrating with IoTs. However, the resulting efficiency is well worth the initial cost.
Reduction of energy consumption would be the basic of applying green design in office spaces. Green design would involve using energy efficient applliances such as LED lighting or energy efficient refrigerators. It would also synergise on usage patterns to conserve energy usage such as sensors to switch off lights when not in use or stopping the air conditioning when no one is in office. All these improvement opportunities should be carefully evaluated to ensure they do not create other issues.
The quality of the air you breathe in your office can affect your mood, concentration, and health. To improve it, you can add some plants that can filter out pollutants and produce oxygen, such as spider plants, snake plants, or peace lilies. You can also use natural or organic cleaning products, instead of harsh chemicals that can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Furthermore, you can open windows or use fans to increase ventilation and reduce humidity, which can prevent mold and dust mites.
These days, there are odourless and low or no VOC paints that help to purify the air. For example, Gush paint helps to purify the air, while also being anti-mould and anti-bacterial. If HVACs cannot be avoided, consider filters such the Filtrete range from 3M, that filter out microparticles and are useful against haze, pollen, bacteria and viruses.
Comfort is relative and qualitative. Indoor air quality provides a quantitative way of determining comfort level in a building environment. Through IAQ, one could determine whether the area is overcooled or over-ventilated. This will provide the basis for reducing energy consumption in HVAC equipment while still maintaining the suitable amount of hygiene and comfort to the occupants.
Another green design principle is to reduce the amount of waste you generate in your office, and recycle or compost what you cannot avoid. For example, you can use reusable or biodegradable cups, plates, and utensils, instead of disposable ones, and bring your own water bottle or coffee mug. You can also print less and use both sides of the paper, or go paperless and use digital tools for communication and documentation. Moreover, you can sort your waste into different bins for recycling or composting, and donate or sell what you no longer need.
Reduction of waste would be a cornerstone of green design. One could advocate for a BYOB culture, where employees are bringing their own utensils to work and do not use disposable cups and cutleries. This would minimise waste disposal cost as well as reduce carbon footprint of company from the inceneration of wastes. Selected general use cups could also be provided for visitors for these purposes. Taing it further, coffee should be provided in bulk and instant beverage packaging avoided with the common intent of waste elimination.
Finally, you can apply green design principles in your office space by creating a culture of sustainability among your colleagues and clients. You can do this by setting goals and policies that promote green practices, such as using public transportation, biking, or carpooling to work, or participating in environmental initiatives or events. You can also educate and motivate your team by sharing information and tips on how to be more eco-friendly, and rewarding them for their efforts. Additionally, you can showcase your green credentials and values to your clients and partners, and inspire them to join you in your journey.
In all my offices, I applied green design principles in my office space, and I focused on maximizing natural light through strategic window placement and open-plan layouts, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Implement water-saving fixtures in restrooms and kitchens to conserve resources. Integrate biophilic design elements like living walls or indoor plants, which not only enhance aesthetics but also contribute to a healthier office environment. Consider the use of smart technology for efficient control of heating, cooling, and lighting systems. Additionally, adopt a layout that promotes active movement, like standing desks or central collaborative spaces, to foster a healthy and environmentally conscious workplace culture.