_How smart buildings are transforming your ESG goals
What are smart buildings?
Smart buildings are equipped with advanced technologies designed to improve operational efficiency, minimise resource consumption, and enhance the experience of occupiers. These buildings leverage technologies such as Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, automation, and data analytics to optimise various systems and processes. Smart and flexible buildings are able to produce, store, and manage some of their own energy and guide intelligent decision-making, much of which can be automated. This includes sensors, for example, which measure in-room conditions such as air quality, pollution and occupancy.
Energy efficiency and sustainability
One of the key aspects of smart buildings is their emphasis on energy efficiency and sustainability. These buildings employ sensor-based technologies to monitor and control HVAC systems, lighting, and other energy-consuming devices. By optimising energy usage, smart buildings reduce carbon emissions and lower operational costs, aligning with ESG objectives.
Renewable energy integration
To further support the sustainability agenda, smart buildings often incorporate renewable energy technologies like solar panels and geothermal systems. These clean energy sources supplement the traditional power grid, enabling buildings to become more self-sufficient and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Enhancing the occupier experience
ESG goals also enhance occupant wellbeing and comfort. Smart buildings can control the office's environmental quality by integrating features like smart lighting systems, air quality monitoring, and thermal comfort controls. IoT-enabled workspace utilisation and occupancy sensors can be implemented to optimise space allocation, leading to more efficient use of space. Machine learning algorithms analyse data to maintain optimal conditions, creating healthier and more productive spaces for occupants.
Health and safety initiatives can also be integrated. For example, occupiers can receive alerts on their phones of building issues, and, for example, unwell people can seek support through smart building apps should they require essential care.
Our research highlights that a flight to quality for green office space is underway among the world's largest corporate occupiers, widening rental premiums for the best-in-class, high-spec buildings. Companies are choosing buildings that align with their brand and enhance it, and are thinking about what makes their office experience better.
Waste management and conservation
Smart buildings utilise advanced waste management systems that promote recycling and reduce landfill waste. Sensors and automated processes monitor waste levels and ensure timely pickups, while smart bins optimise waste segregation. Additionally, water conservation technologies, such as smart meters and efficient fixtures, help reduce water consumption in buildings.
Data-driven decision making
Smart buildings rely on data analytics and modelling to make informed decisions. Real-time collection and analysis of data from various systems enable building managers to identify inefficiencies, detect maintenance issues proactively, and organise resource allocation. Ultimately, data-driven decision-making helps improve building performance and aligns with ESG principles.
Government support
The UK government are supporting PropTech start-ups, such as LightFi, through Innovate UK funding, as well as other similar collaborations to help accelerate progress and get them into buildings across Britain. LightFi uses real-time occupancy data to save energy, optimise space and provide a healthy working environment to support net zero goals.
New entrants into the market
Other new entrants are coming into the market all the time. For example, our PropTech team have partnered with Fifth Wall, the largest venture capital firm focused on real estate technology, with an investment into its European Real Estate Technology Fund. This helps get technology into buildings by taking on a proactive approach to property asset management. This is great because this combination promotes holistic change, leading to growth in the area that has the ability to directly influence control, which is needed to support the move towards more efficient buildings.
Smart buildings will continue to revolutionise commercial real estate. By prioritising energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, and occupant wellbeing, smart buildings align seamlessly with company and wider global ESG goals. As the world pursues sustainable and net zero goals, smart buildings are proving to be an essential component of a more environmentally conscious and socially responsible built environment.
How can we support your ESG goals?
If you’d like to learn more about how we can support you with smart building technology, please get in touch with our ESG Consulting team.