New Study Weighs in on Benefits of “Green” Offices

Green-PrintingOne of the ongoing economic debates raging throughout the country is whether or not green energy lives up to the hype. Is it really more efficient and sustainable or is it just the latest in trendy, temporary solutions? Does it have an effect on the workplace? A new report by the World Green Building Council, titled “Health, Wellbeing and Productivity in Offices: The Next Chapter for Green Building” suggests green office designs could actually increase worker productivity.

According to Co.Exist, there are five specific suggestions from the study that could improve efficiency at the office. The first recommendation is utilize windows. As reported by Co.Exist, “Office workers with windows get 173% more exposure to white light during the work day, and sleep an average of 46 extra minutes a night.” Next, the article suggests improving the office’s ventilation. It says researchers found that better ventilation improved worker’s performance by 11 percent. Co.Exist also instructs bosses to provide their workers with a plant or a view because these things make employees less frustrated, more patient, healthier, and more focused on their work. If possible, they also recommend encouraging workers to take public transit, walk, or bike to the office because it will make them less likely to get sick. Lastly, Co.Exist encourages telecommuting and open offices to decrease the carbon footprint.

According to the report, the rate of absenteeism in the United States is 3 percent in the private sector and 4 percent in the public sector. It estimates that the associated business costs amount to $2,000-$2,500 per employee per year.

Even with this new report, the green debate is still very much alive. What do you think?

One way or the other, you shouldn’t go into the office design process without the help of experts. At Office Space Planners, we provide you with a team of expert designers and project managers. Between them, they have decades of combined experience and education in the areas of interior design, space planning, computer aided design, drafting, corporate office relocation management, project management, ergonomics and systems furniture. Our services include analysis, commercial space planning, project management, and move coordination.

However you choose to tackle the issue of worker productivity, you will always be better served getting your office off the ground efficiently. With Office Space Planners, you can save time and money designing the ideal office for your business. Whatever you office design needs, look no further than Office Space Planners!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *