Jun 2022
4 Sustainability Trends in Commercial Real Estate
Companies are saying yes to sustainably built facilities and paying premium leases. Not only do these feature cutting-edge concepts and materials, but they also present a golden opportunity for brands to showcase their values. Here's a look at some green building trends in commercial real estate.
1. Use of natural and recycled materials
Designers of sustainable commercial spaces are including innovative new materials, with a focus on minimizing waste and pollution and reducing their carbon footprint. Examples: Insulation made from mushrooms, carpets made from old water bottles and living walls featuring lichens, mosses and plants.
2. Sustainable construction
This brand-new Dallas warehouse is constructed of cross-laminated timber harvested from a regulated forest. This takes place of carbon-intensive concrete and steel materials.
3. Local regulations
Miami’s annual 2-degree temperature hike since 1985 has triggered local action. A cool roof ordinance for new buildings requires materials that deflect heat. Recently, Miami appointed its first chief heat officer, who will identify other possibilities to mitigate the effects to promote public safety.
4. Smarter systems
As a boom in lab development fuels growth in commercial real estate, extra attention is being paid to trimming their often-mammoth energy costs. For example, heat recovery units can offset HVAC expenses of meeting stringent air circulation requirements, by capturing any heat — or coolness — before discharging used air outside.
