What are the key environmental performance indicators for facility management and how to measure them?

1 Energy efficiency

Energy efficiency is one of the most important EPIs for facility management, as it can reduce operating costs, greenhouse gas emissions, and dependence on fossil fuels. Energy efficiency measures how much energy is consumed per unit of output, such as floor area, occupancy, or service. To measure energy efficiency, you need to collect data on energy use, such as electricity, gas, or fuel, and compare it with the relevant output indicators. You can also benchmark your energy performance against industry standards or best practices, such as the Energy Star rating system.

2 Water conservation

Water conservation is another key EPI for facility management, as it can save water resources, lower utility bills, and prevent pollution. Water conservation measures how much water is used per unit of output, such as floor area, occupancy, or service. To measure water conservation, you need to collect data on water use, such as potable, recycled, or rainwater, and compare it with the relevant output indicators. You can also benchmark your water performance against industry standards or best practices, such as the LEED certification system.

3 Waste management

Waste management is a crucial EPI for facility management, as it can minimize environmental impacts, comply with regulations, and create value from waste. Waste management measures how much waste is generated, diverted, or disposed per unit of output, such as floor area, occupancy, or service. To measure waste management, you need to collect data on waste streams, such as solid, liquid, or hazardous waste, and compare it with the relevant output indicators. You can also benchmark your waste performance against industry standards or best practices, such as the Zero Waste certification system.

4 Emissions reduction

Emissions reduction is a vital EPI for facility management, as it can mitigate climate change, improve air quality, and enhance reputation. Emissions reduction measures how much greenhouse gas or other pollutants are emitted per unit of output, such as floor area, occupancy, or service. To measure emissions reduction, you need to collect data on emissions sources, such as energy use, transportation, or refrigerants, and compare it with the relevant output indicators. You can also benchmark your emissions performance against industry standards or best practices, such as the Carbon Disclosure Project.

5 Biodiversity protection

Biodiversity protection is a valuable EPI for facility management, as it can support ecosystem services, increase green spaces, and foster well-being. Biodiversity protection measures how much natural habitat is preserved, restored, or enhanced per unit of output, such as floor area, occupancy, or service. To measure biodiversity protection, you need to collect data on biodiversity indicators, such as species richness, vegetation cover, or habitat quality, and compare it with the relevant output indicators. You can also benchmark your biodiversity performance against industry standards or best practices, such as the Biodiversity Index.

6 Social responsibility

Social responsibility is a meaningful EPI for facility management, as it can demonstrate ethical values, engage stakeholders, and contribute to society. Social responsibility measures how much social impact is created, measured, or reported per unit of output, such as floor area, occupancy, or service. To measure social responsibility, you need to collect data on social indicators, such as employee satisfaction, community involvement, or human rights, and compare it with the relevant output indicators. You can also benchmark your social performance against industry standards or best practices, such as the Global Reporting Initiative.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?