What is a sustainable office building?

A sustainable office building is designed to minimize environmental impact by optimising energy efficiency, reducing waste, and incorporating eco-friendly materials.

As energy costs rise and companies become aware of their carbon footprint, more businesses are choosing to rent sustainable office spaces.

This article will explore the benefits of sustainable office buildings to help you decide if it’s the best choice for your business.

1. Lowers Energy Costs

Sustainable office buildings are designed to be energy efficient, therefore lowering energy costs for landlords and tenants. Features such as LED lighting, advanced insulation and solar panels help to reduce energy consumption.

For businesses renting office space in Central London, sustainable buildings offer protection against rapidly rising utility costs. A great example of this is the Bloom building in Clerkenwell which was the first commercial building in the UK to achieve the highest accreditation for BREEAM.

2. Increases Staff Wellbeing

A sustainable office environment increases staff wellbeing and productivity. Studies have shown that employees working in green-certified buildings have higher levels of satisfaction and engagement. 

Natural lighting and elements like plants and green spaces can provide a comfortable and inspiring office.

3. Improves Air Quality

Green office buildings boast improved air quality by incorporating advanced ventilation systems, air-purifying plants and low-VOC materials. Low air quality in office spaces has long been linked to fatigue and headaches.

30 St Mary Axe (The Gherkin) in London boasts its own natural ventilation system. Each floor has 6 atria which extend between several floors and follow the natural curve of the building to allow air to circulate.


4. Reduces Waste

Sustainable buildings aim to reduce waste production by implementing recycling programs, waste management systems and eco-friendly materials. 

Many buildings also focus on improving water efficiency by harvesting rainwater and recycling greywater (wastewater from non-toilet plumbing systems like hand basins and showers).

5. Raises Property Value

Investors and landlords that incorporate sustainability features into their buildings often have higher occupancy rates and higher returns on investments. 

Serviced offices in buildings such as The Kingdom Street Complex in Paddington have implemented energy-efficient management systems, making them the ideal choice for businesses willing to pay higher rents for green credentials. This results in an increase in rental demand and a higher property value.


6. Increases Eligibility for Tax Incentives

Businesses working sustainably may be eligible for tax incentives and grants. The UK Government supports sustainability through a variety of schemes, including claiming capital allowances when buying energy-efficient technology for your business.

7. Attracts New Talent

Many Millennials and Gen Z employees prioritise working for companies with a commitment to the environment. Renting an office in a green-certified building can be a key selling point for businesses competing for top talent. 

The White Collar Factory in Old Street is the perfect example of a green building which attracts creative professionals and innovative companies due to its sustainable design.

8. Enhances Brand Reputation

Not only do sustainable buildings boost your brand reputation with potential employees, but they can help build stronger relationships with customers and investors. Clients are more likely to work with brands that align with their own sustainability goals.

9. Promotes Environmental Education

Sustainable offices often serve as hubs for environmental education. Many buildings boast digital displays to show green policies and energy saving targets. 

Some serviced office providers even host sustainability workshops to raise awareness for businesses renting workspaces.

10. Meeting Sustainability Targets

It’s common for modern businesses to have net-zero goals and sustainability targets. Renting offices in an environmentally responsible building helps organisations to comply with government policies and ESG commitments.

In London, 22 Bishopsgate has been designed with net-zero emissions targets, which is perfect for businesses with their own sustainability targets.

11. Raises Demand from Eco-Conscious Businesses

As more organisations are becoming environmentally aware, the demand for sustainable office buildings is rising. Eco-conscious businesses are looking for buildings with BREEAM certifications and similar green credentials.

12. Strengthens Community Relations

By reducing their carbon footprint and improving air quality, sustainable office buildings have a positive impact on local communities. Many commercial areas include green spaces and cycle-friendly zones which can benefit other local businesses and residents.

The Bristol Temple Quarter Enterprise Zone was created in 2012 and is the ideal example of a regeneration project which combined sustainable design with the area’s heritage.

Sustainable office buildings offer a wealth of benefits for businesses in London and the UK. From reducing energy costs to improving staff wellbeing, sustainable buildings are becoming the go-to option.