The impact of facilities management on the environment and how to reduce waste

Facilities management is an essential component of any organization because it is responsible for assuring that the physical assets of a building are well-maintained and functional. However, facilities management has a major environmental impact, and waste reduction is an important part of environmental sustainability. 

The Impact of Facilities Management on the Environment 

The impact of facilities management on the environment is significant, with waste production being a crucial concern. Improper waste disposal not only damages the ecosystem, but it also poses a risk to people's health and safety. Additionally, the management of energy and water resources, along with poor HVAC system maintenance, contributes to environmental deterioration. 

Facilities management has a direct effect on the amount of energy and water used in a building. Proper management and maintenance of these resources can decrease consumption, resulting in lower carbon emissions and environmental impact. Furthermore, regular maintenance of HVAC systems can improve their energy efficiency, lowering the amount of energy needed to maintain comfortable temperatures within a building. 

Environmentally responsible building practices can reduce energy use, minimize waste, and enhance air quality, among other advantages, although there may be initial investment required. LEED buildings have reported almost 20 percent lower maintenance costs than typical commercial buildings, and green building retrofits typically decrease operation costs by almost 10 percent in just one year. By reducing, reusing, and recycling resources to create a more energy-efficient workplace with a smaller carbon footprint, facilities managers play a critical role in ensuring that workspaces have a minimal, neutral, or even beneficial effect on the environment. 

Reducing Waste in Facilities Management 

Facilities management plays a crucial role in achieving environmental sustainability, with waste reduction being a significant component. Below are some effective waste reduction strategies in facility management. 

Did you know? 
Food that ends up in landfills generates 8 to 10 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. (Source: un.org)

Implement a Waste Management Plan: A comprehensive waste management strategy that includes recycling and composting programs can reduce waste generation in buildings. 

Use Sustainable Products: Facilities management can reduce waste by utilizing environmentally friendly products. This can include using eco-friendly cleaning tools, recycled paper products, and energy-efficient light bulbs. Facilities management teams can reduce their carbon footprint and support sustainability by implementing these changes. 

Perform Regular Maintenance: By preventing breakdowns and extending the life of assets, regular maintenance of equipment and systems can decrease the amount of waste generated. 

Educate Staff: Staff education and training can help reduce waste by encouraging proper disposal practices, efficient resource use, and energy-saving techniques.

Conduct Energy Audits: Regular energy audits can identify areas where energy usage can be reduced, resulting in lower carbon emissions and lower energy costs. 

Conclusion 

Good facilities management can have a significant and positive environmental effect, with waste reduction being a critical component of environmental sustainability. Implementing effective waste management strategies, using sustainable products, maintaining equipment and systems on a regular basis, staff education, and conducting energy audits are all critical steps in reducing waste and creating a more environmentally sustainable workplace. Facilities management can help to create a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment for all by adopting these basic strategies. 


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INFRACARE AS A FM SERVICE PROVIDER:  

Infracare assures its customers that they can count on both its team and services. Whether it is the smooth management of day-to-day tasks or the prompt and efficient resolution of unforeseen issues, Infracare's customers have the confidence and trust in the company to exceed their expectations. 

At Infracare, we have a proven track record of delivering high-quality facilities management services in the UAE. Along with highlighting our company's credibility to clients, we place great emphasis on establishing transparent communication channels to ensure mutual understanding before commencing work.