As an environmental designer, you know how important it is to use sustainable technology in your projects. But how do you communicate this value to your clients, who may have different priorities, budgets, or expectations? In this article, we will share some tips on how to explain sustainable technology to clients in a clear, persuasive, and engaging way.
Sustainable technology is any technology that reduces the environmental impact of human activities, such as energy consumption, waste generation, or greenhouse gas emissions. It can include renewable energy sources, green building materials, smart devices, or biodegradable products. Sustainable technology can help your clients save money, improve their health, and contribute to social and environmental goals.
Sustainable building technologies are things that do not take away from the next generation to do it! It makes today better, without taking away from the future. Klas Haglid, P.E., R.A., F-NSPE, F-DFE, CEM
Environmental design is the practice of designing spaces, products, or systems that enhance the natural and cultural environment, rather than harm it. It considers the ecological, social, and economic aspects of design decisions, and aims to create solutions that are functional, beautiful, and sustainable. Sustainable technology is an essential tool for environmental design, as it helps to minimize the negative effects of human activities on the environment, and to maximize the positive ones.
Before you explain sustainable technology to your clients, you need to understand their needs and preferences. What are their goals, challenges, and opportunities? What are their values, interests, and motivations? What are their constraints, such as budget, time, or regulations? You can use various methods to gather this information, such as interviews, surveys, observations, or workshops. The more you know about your clients, the better you can tailor your explanation to their specific situation.
One of the most effective ways to explain sustainable technology to your clients is to present the benefits and costs of using it in your design. You can use examples, stories, or data to illustrate how sustainable technology can help your clients achieve their goals, solve their problems, or satisfy their desires. You can also compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of sustainable technology versus conventional technology, and show how the former can outweigh the latter in the long run. You can use visual aids, such as graphs, charts, or diagrams, to make your presentation more appealing and understandable.
Some of your clients may have some objections or concerns about using sustainable technology in your design. They may think that it is too expensive, too complicated, too risky, or too unfamiliar. You need to be prepared to address these issues and to overcome their resistance. You can do this by providing factual information, testimonials, or guarantees that can dispel their doubts or fears. You can also use empathetic language, active listening, or positive feedback to build rapport and trust with your clients.
After you explain sustainable technology to your clients, you want them to take action and give you feedback. You can do this by asking them open-ended questions, such as what they think, feel, or want to know more about sustainable technology. You can also suggest some next steps, such as visiting a site, testing a product, or signing a contract. You can also follow up with them, and thank them for their time, attention, and input. You can also invite them to share their opinions, suggestions, or questions with you or with others.