What are some examples of sustainable FM practices in different industries?

1 Energy management

Energy management is a key sustainable FM practice that involves optimizing the energy consumption and generation of a facility, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and increasing the use of renewable sources. To achieve this, you can install energy-efficient lighting, heating, cooling, and ventilation systems, implement smart meters and controls to monitor and adjust energy demand and supply, and invest in solar panels or wind turbines. Additionally, regular energy audits and benchmarking can help identify and eliminate energy wastage and inefficiencies. In the end, energy management can help lower greenhouse gas emissions, operational costs, and maintenance needs of a facility while improving the comfort and productivity of its occupants.

2 Waste management

Waste management is an important sustainable FM practice that involves minimizing the generation of waste and maximizing the reuse, recycling, and recovery of materials. Strategies to achieve this include implementing waste segregation, collection, and disposal systems; encouraging the use of reusable or biodegradable packaging, utensils, and containers; promoting the circular economy concept; and partnering with waste management companies or organizations. All this can help reduce environmental impact, landfill space, and disposal costs, while creating new opportunities for innovation and collaboration.

3 Water management

Water management is an essential sustainable FM practice that involves conserving and protecting the water resources and quality of a facility, reducing water consumption and pollution, and enhancing water efficiency and resilience. To achieve this, one can install water-efficient fixtures, appliances, and irrigation systems, as well as implement rainwater harvesting, stormwater management, and greywater recycling systems. Additionally, educating and engaging occupants on water conservation and hygiene practices is important, as well as monitoring and maintaining the water pipes, tanks, and filters to prevent leaks, bursts, or contamination. By doing so, one can help preserve the water availability, security, and health of a facility while saving on water bills and complying with water regulations.

4 Green procurement

Green procurement is a fourth sustainable FM practice that involves selecting and purchasing products and services with lower environmental impact, higher social responsibility, and longer life cycle. To do this, you should consider certifications such as Energy Star, LEED, Fair Trade, or B Corp. Additionally, opt for products and services made from recycled, renewable, or natural materials like paper, wood, or cotton. Moreover, select items with a low carbon footprint, toxicity level, and waste generation like LED bulbs, organic cleaners, or digital platforms. Finally, choose products and services with high durability, functionality, and adaptability such as modular furniture, multifunctional devices, or cloud-based software. Green procurement can help support the environmental and social goals of a facility while reducing the purchasing and ownership costs and risks.

5 Occupant engagement

A fifth essential sustainable FM practice is occupant engagement, which involves communicating and collaborating with the people who utilize, work in, or visit a facility. This encourages and enables them to adopt sustainable behaviors and practices. Examples of occupant engagement activities include providing clear and consistent information on the sustainability policies, initiatives, and achievements of a facility; creating and supporting green teams, committees, or champions to lead and coordinate sustainability efforts and events; offering incentives, rewards, or recognition for occupants who demonstrate sustainable actions or outcomes; and soliciting and responding to feedback, suggestions, or complaints on sustainability issues or opportunities of a facility. Occupant engagement can help cultivate a culture of sustainability, accountability, and participation in a facility while improving the satisfaction, loyalty, and well-being of the occupants.