You're exploring sustainable innovation in Facilities Engineering. Which trends should you keep an eye on?

2 Water Conservation

Water conservation is another critical trend in sustainable facilities engineering. Techniques such as rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling are increasingly being implemented to reduce water usage. By using these systems, buildings can repurpose rainwater for landscaping and greywater from sinks and showers for toilet flushing. This not only conserves water but also reduces the load on municipal water treatment facilities.

3 Smart Buildings

The rise of smart buildings is revolutionizing facilities engineering. Smart buildings leverage the Internet of Things (IoT) to connect various components and systems within a facility, allowing for real-time monitoring and control. This connectivity can lead to significant improvements in energy efficiency, security, and building maintenance. As a facilities engineer, keeping abreast of IoT developments can provide you with powerful tools to create more responsive and adaptable building environments.

4 Green Materials

Green materials are becoming the norm in new construction and renovations. These materials are selected based on their low environmental impact, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions or the ability to be recycled at the end of their life. As a facilities engineer, you should consider materials like bamboo flooring, recycled metal or glass, and low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints to ensure that your projects are as sustainable as possible.

5 Indoor Environmental Quality

Indoor environmental quality (IEQ) is gaining attention as organizations recognize its impact on occupant health and productivity. Facilities engineers should focus on improving air quality, natural lighting, and acoustic comfort. This can be achieved through the use of advanced HVAC systems with better filtration, the design of spaces that maximize daylight exposure, and materials that absorb sound. Prioritizing IEQ not only contributes to sustainability but also enhances the well-being of building occupants.

6 Lifecycle Thinking

Lifecycle thinking is a trend that encourages looking beyond the immediate impacts of building design and operation to consider the long-term environmental footprint. This includes evaluating the energy used over a building's life, the durability of materials, and the potential for repurposing or recycling at the end of a facility's useful life. As a facilities engineer, adopting a lifecycle perspective will help you make decisions that contribute to sustainable development over decades.