In the modern era, the emphasis on wellness and sustainability has never been more pronounced. As businesses adapt to the changing dynamics of the workplace, particularly in the wake of remote working trends, creating an office environment that resonates with these values becomes not just a luxury, but a necessity. Such spaces are integral in enticing employees back to the office, offering them a workspace that aligns with their personal values, promotes well-being, and helps the environment as well as your organization’s bottom line.
We recently caught up with 2023 Crain’s Notable Leader in Sustainability, Mason Awtry, CEO of Wurkwel Ventures, who for the past 20 years has championed the idea of sustainable workplace solutions. Wurkwel and their portfolio of companies believe that environmental stewardship is everyone’s responsibility. They do their part by offering sustainable office furniture solutions by acquiring premium, pre-owned office furniture from all over the country to refurbish, recondition & repurpose. Those assets are then resold to value-driven and ecologically minded individuals and firms or donated to charitable organizations.
That approach allows them to divert an average of over 300-plus tons of materials from landfills every year. It is through those efforts, that they are able to save the equivalent in new product production of:
- 7,786,500 kilowatts of electricity
- 924,494 gallons of oil
- 132 billion BTU’s of energy
- 16,781 cubic yards of landfill
It became clear that an eco-friendly approach with a focus on sustainability is just one piece of the puzzle, and that the next step is what Awtry referred to as ‘Sustainability 2.0’, or a truly circular workplace economy. He remarked that, “The Circular Economy, optimizes the use of resources and minimizes waste throughout its whole lifecycle, unlike linear economic models in which resources are disposed of at end of initial functional use.”
He further described, “For example, in our world, the office interiors world, a linear model, that a lot of companies still use, it’s Purchase-Install-Use-Remove-Waste, which is not environmentally friendly.”
“What we’ve done at Wurkwel, and what we really champion, is a circular economic workplace model of Purchase-Install-Use-Remove-Recondition & Refurbish. Those assets can then be re-sold or donated, and we essentially create a closed loop model that promotes landfill diversion and thus circularity.”
Beyond maintaining circularity, Awtry identified other key strategies that organizations are taking that make their spaces commute-worthy to entice their employees back to the office, that also have a strong focus on sustainability and wellness. Some of the ways firms can accomplish these goals are outlined below.
A breath of fresh air
One of the most immediate benefits of an eco-friendly office is the improvement in air quality. Incorporating plants, green walls, and efficient ventilation systems can purify the air, reducing toxins and pollutants. Biophilic walls, which integrate natural elements like plants and moss, not only enhance air quality but also create a calming and rejuvenating atmosphere. When employees know that their workspace is designed for their well-being, it becomes a place they’re eager to return to.
Natural light and well-being
Maximizing natural light through smart architectural designs and LED lighting can uplift the mood and energy of the workspace. LED lights, in particular, are energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan, reducing both energy consumption and waste. Exposure to natural light improves mood, reduces fatigue, and enhances well-being. By harmonizing artificial and natural lighting, you’re creating a vibrant atmosphere that employees will love.
Innovative and inspiring spaces
Sustainable offices often incorporate innovative designs, materials, and technologies. Features like reclaimed wood desks, solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, or energy-efficient appliances can serve as conversation starters and points of pride.
Moreover, choosing furniture made from eco-friendly materials further emphasizes a company’s commitment to sustainability. By opting for remanufactured or premium pre-owned furniture, or those made from sustainable materials, businesses can significantly reduce their carbon footprint. This approach not only saves resources but also aligns with the principles of the circular economy. Employees feel a sense of belonging to an organization that’s forward-thinking and responsible, making them more inclined to return and engage in the office environment.
Financial benefits and long-term profits
The financial narrative of a sustainable office intertwines with its environmental and employee benefits:
- Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient appliances and systems, including LED lighting, lead to substantial cost savings over time.
- Tax Incentives and Grants: Governments often reward businesses that adopt sustainable practices, offsetting initial investment costs.
- Enhanced Brand Image: An eco-friendly office can boost a company’s brand image, leading to increased customer loyalty and sales.
- Reduced Waste Management Costs: Sustainable practices can lead to significant savings on waste disposal.
Environmental impact and the bigger picture
The environmental benefits of a sustainable office are profound:
- Landfill Diversion: Recycling and composting practices can significantly reduce waste sent to landfills.
- The Circular Economy: Embracing this concept, especially in furniture and office supplies, promotes a balanced ecosystem.
- Conservation of Resources: Using water-saving fixtures and responsibly sourced materials reduces strain on natural resources.
- Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG): In the workplace, the pivotal role of your ESG goals and principles, including their integration into business practices ultimately foster a sustainable and ethically-driven workplace culture.
In a world where the office competes with the comforts of home, designing an eco-friendly and sustainable workspace that contributes to supporting a circular economy is a strategic move. It’s about creating a space that resonates with employees’ values, reduces environmental impact, and contributes to the bottom line. As companies look to entice their teams back to the office, a commitment to Sustainability 2.0 and the Circular Economy might just be the differentiator that sets your team apart!
To learn more about Wurkwel and how they’re promoting a circular workplace economy, visit https://wurkwel.com/.
