Sustainable Solutions: Building Green and Eco-Friendly Commercial Properties

If there’s one buzzword that’s stands out in today’s worlds of construction and property development, it’s sustainability. Whether you call it sustainable, green, or eco-friendly, property managers and developers are looking for ways to make their buildings more attractive to potential customers and tenants by making them sustainable. In this post, we look at several options to accomplish this.

Improve Energy Efficiency

The first step in making a building more environmentally friendly is to improve its energy efficiency. Property managers can start with simple upgrades like replacing incandescent and fluorescent lights with LEDs, replacing outdated appliances with energy-efficient models, and investing in high-quality insulation and windows to reduce heating and cooling, which is one of the largest expenses in any building.

Harness Renewable Energy

Another way to reduce energy consumption and reliance on fossil fuels is to use renewable energy sources wherever possible. Solar panels and wind turbines can drastically reduce your building’s carbon footprint. While it’s a significant upfront investment, the long-term savings can pay for the upgrade. Also, in some states, developers and property managers can take advantage of government incentives and tax breaks to soften the blow.

Water Conservation

Office buildings, retail stores, hotels, restaurants, and other commercial properties use a significant amount of water. Besides heating and cooling, water expenses can be a tremendous hit to your bank account, so conserving water wherever you can will reduce costs and make your building more sustainable.

Several options for water conservation include installing low-flow toilets, faucets, and shower heads to reduce consumption. Rainwater harvesting systems can be implemented to collect and reuse rainwater for landscaping and other non-potable uses. Developers should incorporate gray water systems that reuse water from sinks and showers for toilets and irrigation.

Use Sustainable Materials and Building Practices

Choosing sustainable materials is essential for making your building project eco-friendly. This includes using recycled, locally sourced and renewable materials. Consider, also, using sustainable timber, bamboo, and recycled steel as options. Finally, when possible, choose a contractor that minimizes waste and pollution and is on board with your sustainability goals.

Consider Green Spacing and Biophilic Design

Integrating green spaces, such as gardens or green roofs, can improve air quality, reduce heat island effect, and enhance the well-being of customers and tenants. Biophilic design, which incorporates natural elements into the architectural design, creates a more aesthetically pleasing environment and contributes to the outside perception that your building is eco-friendly.

Integrate Smart Building Technologies

Smart building technologies have exploded in the last few years and will continue to revolutionize property management and user satisfaction in 2024. Buildings that operate on the International of things (IoT), allow property managers to monitor various operations in real time and can help with energy efficiency.

Self learning thermostats, automated lighting, and HVAC systems that can adapt to changing weather and occupancy can reduce energy usage. Another application of IoT systems in a commercial facility is smart restrooms. Most building owners don’t think about it, but the fact is that the quality and cleanliness (or lack thereof) of a restroom can drive customers and occupants away. IoT sensors can resolve issues before they happen. For example, smart soap and paper towel dispensers can alert cleaning staff that supplies are running low and some advanced systems can self-stock.

Promote Sustainable Practices From Tenants

You can create the most sustainable building, but much of it will be for nothing if your occupants aren’t doing their part. Property managers should encourage recycling programs, provide guidelines about conserving water and electricity, and reward tenants to reduce their carbon footprint.

Certification

Sustainability is an ongoing process and you need regular assessments and upgrades to stay on top of the latest technologies and practices.

Certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) can help you stand out and show that you’re committed to maintaining an eco-friendly building now and in the future.

Need an Estimate?

New Horizon Construction Services is a licensed, bonded, and insured MBE General Contractor in Central Florida. We have an extensive experience in the hospitality, education, entertainment, and retail sectors, and major ground-up projects. While we’re Florida based, we can serve customers across the country.

If you’re ready to get your next project started, contact us today for an estimate at 407–574–2164 or reach us online.