Integrating sustainability in facilities management: key practices for a greener future

Facilities management (FM) plays a pivotal role in driving sustainability initiatives, given its direct influence on energy usage, resource consumption and waste management. In this post we’ll explain how, by adopting a range of sustainable practices from energy efficiency and water conservation to sustainable sourcing, facilities managers can reduce environmental impact, enhance operational efficiency and align with broader corporate sustainability goals.

What is sustainability in facilities management?

Facilities management as a profession has expanded in scope in recent years – see our blog what is facilities management for a full explanation. Sustainability in facilities management involves integrating environmentally responsible practices into an organisation’s overall facilities management strategy and operations. This includes energy and water consumption, minimising waste and selecting sustainable building materials. The goal is to create facilities that are efficient, eco-friendly and aligned with an organisation’s environmental and corporate social responsibility (CSR) objectives.

Key sustainable practices in facilities management

Sustainability measures are likely to be a key aspect of the future of facilities management and span a wide range of areas, with sustainable practices applied across virtually all aspects of facilities management. Some of the most important sustainable FM practices include:

Energy efficiency measures

Energy efficiency is fundamental to sustainable facilities management, with clear environmental and financial benefits. Facilities managers can install solar panels or transition to renewable energy providers to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Buildings can be made more energy-efficient through better insulation, energy-efficient windows and the use of sustainable building materials. Proactive maintenance of HVAC systems and other high-consumption equipment also ensures optimal performance by addressing issues before efficiency declines.

Water conservation strategies

Conserving water is essential to sustainable facilities management, addressing the use of a finite resource. Installing water-saving fixtures, such as low-flow taps and toilets, reduces consumption without sacrificing functionality. Rainwater harvesting and gray water recycling systems can be used for non-potable applications like irrigation. Encouraging water-saving habits among building occupants through awareness campaigns also plays a crucial role in overall conservation efforts.

Waste management and recycling

Waste reduction is key to sustainability in FM. Recycling programmes help manage materials like paper, plastics and e-waste, while organic waste can be diverted from landfills through composting. Waste management might also encompass pest control services where necessary, to ensure a clean and healthy environment. Sustainable materials that are either reusable or recyclable further support long-term environmental goals. By leveraging technology such as a specialist waste management system, facilities managers can monitor waste generation and identify areas for improvement.

Sustainable sourcing and procurement

Sustainable procurement ensures that materials and services align with environmental objectives. Setting robust criteria for selecting sustainable suppliers, such as partnering with those certified by BREEAM or ISO 14001, supports these goals. Prioritising eco-friendly materials in the procurement process, such as FSC-certified wood, recycled steel or low-VOC paints, further supports sustainability. Biodegradable, non-toxic cleaning products and reusable tools also contribute to sustainable sourcing practices. Procurement software can streamline the process, ensuring that decisions consistently align with green policies.

Green materials and finishes

The adoption of sustainable materials in maintenance and upgrades significantly reduces environmental impact. Low-VOC paints, adhesives and recycled flooring materials contribute to healthier indoor environments and support circular economy principles. Reactive maintenance approaches using sensors to trigger cleaning visits based on footfall can help to ensure that cleaning materials are used consciously and minimise wastage.

Implementing sustainability in facilities management

Transitioning to sustainable practices requires a strategic, organisation-wide approach. Here’s how facilities managers can successfully integrate sustainability into their operations:

1. Develop a sustainability policy: Start by assessing the current environmental impact of operations. Set clear sustainability goals, such as reducing energy or water consumption and waste generation, using a SMART framework with defined KPIs. Using systems to track and measure progress ensures accountability and facilitates adjustments where needed.
2. Educate employees: Foster a culture of sustainability by educating employees through workshops and seminars. Digital updates via emails or through webinars can help to keep employees informed and motivated, while regular surveys can be used to gather input and refine initiatives, keeping them engaged with the process.
3. Engage stakeholders: Gaining support across all levels of the organisation is crucial for success. Regular updates on progress, coupled with open feedback mechanisms, ensure that sustainability efforts are continuously refined. Executive buy-in is key to securing funding for green projects and reinforcing sustainability as a core organisational value.
4. Measure and report sustainability goals: Transparency and accountability are essential for long-term success. The use of facilities management software can help to monitor key performance indicators like energy savings, waste reduction and water usage. Reporting achievements regularly reinforces your commitment to sustainability, keeping all stakeholders aligned.

Benefits of green facilities management

Green facilities management has wide-ranging benefits. By adopting sustainable practices, organisations can reduce costs, improve efficiency and enhance their reputation, all while contributing to global sustainability goals.

Environmental impact

Sustainable facilities management practices help reduce carbon emissions by optimising energy use and integrating renewable energy solutions like solar panels and wind turbines. Energy-efficient lighting, improved insulation and smart HVAC systems also contribute to lowering energy consumption, which is essential for achieving Net Zero goals and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Sustainable practices also improve indoor air quality, maximise natural light, improve thermal comfort and reduce noise pollution, supporting overall well-being. This leads to healthier, more comfortable workspaces which can boost employee satisfaction and productivity.

Operational efficiency

Sustainable facilities management directly reduces operational costs by implementing energy-efficient systems, such as LED lighting and high-efficiency HVAC, reducing energy consumption and leading to substantial savings on utility bills over time. Investing in sustainable practices like energy efficiency, water conservation and waste reduction also yields long-term financial savings. Facilities can lower utility bills, reduce waste disposal costs and even generate revenue through recycling programmes, enhancing both environmental and financial outcomes.

Preventive maintenance strategies, such as regular servicing of HVAC systems and insulation checks, help prevent costly repairs and extend equipment lifespans. Facilities management software also drives longer-term efficiency savings by enabling businesses to monitor equipment performance and optimise resource allocation. By leveraging real-time data, businesses can reduce waste, automate energy-saving processes and improve operational efficiency, leading to greater profitability.

Reputation and compliance

Sustainable facilities management supports corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals and helps organisations comply with global climate regulations. By adopting energy-efficient systems and reducing emissions, businesses can meet Net Zero and ESG targets, ensuring compliance and fostering trust with stakeholders.

Sustainability practices are also increasingly important for shaping brand reputation, as consumers and investors prioritise environmental responsibility. Organisations that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability gain a competitive advantage, increasing customer loyalty and attracting environmentally conscious customers.

FAQs

How MRI Software can help

MRI’s facilities management software empowers organisations to integrate sustainability into their operations efficiently. From tracking energy and water consumption to streamlining waste management programmes, MRI’s solutions offer comprehensive tools to meet your sustainability targets. By providing real-time data, predictive analytics and seamless reporting, MRI helps facilities managers make informed decisions and track progress towards greener operations.

• Energy and water management: Leverage advanced tracking and analytics tools to optimise energy usage and water conservation efforts.
• Waste reduction: Use waste management software to monitor and improve waste practices, reducing environmental impact.
• Sustainability reporting: Access comprehensive reporting tools that align with ESG goals and help meet regulatory standards.