sustainable business
Net zero carbon buildings can support a company’s ESG, brand, and bottom line
Included in the top-level strategy plans of most companies will be goals to increase profitability, attract investment and grow the reputation of the brand. Choosing to be based in a net zero carbon (NZC) building like The Forge at Bankside is a wise move that can help to accelerate all three.
What is a net zero carbon building?
Net zero carbon means that the building’s materials, construction method and in-use operations achieve a balance of zero or negative carbon emissions. The Forge is Landsec’s first NZC development, aligned with the NZC criteria set out in the Green Buildings Council’s framework definition. Built around a bright central courtyard, it offers 139,000 sq ft of Grade A office space split across two buildings in the heart of vibrant and cultural Bankside. At The Forge, NZC is achieved through a sustainable construction approach known as P-DfMA (Platform for Design, Manufacture and Assembly), high energy efficiency and, as a last resort, carbon offsetting.
Cutting costs through energy efficiency and an emphasis on wellbeing
Energy efficiency is one of the most obvious ways for a company to cut costs, especially when it comes to heating and cooling. The Forge is powered by 100% renewable energy sources, including the energy generated by 107 solar panels fitted to the building’s roof. That means a big reduction in energy bills and no dependency on fossil fuels and their current soaring prices.
Less obvious but equally important savings come from reducing the costs associated with sick days and staff turnover. The sustainability credentials of The Forge go beyond net zero carbon to include an emphasis on health and wellbeing. Bike spaces and end-of-trip facilities encourage cycling to work, while plenty of natural light and access to outdoor space are proven to boost creativity and productivity. According to The Future Workplace Employee Experience Study*, 78% of employees say access to natural light and outdoor views improves their wellbeing, and 70% report improved performance at work.
Investors are drawn to robust ESG policies with a focus on sustainability
ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) policies are becoming increasingly important for attracting investment, especially when it comes to sustainability. Investors and shareholders want to know what a business is doing to protect itself against the risks of climate change, reduce its carbon footprint and reach net zero emissions by 2050. Having a NZC workplace will go a long way to reassure investors of a company’s commitment and put it well ahead of the competition.
Today’s consumers want to engage with ethical and sustainable brands
As consumers become more aware of the effects their choices have on the environment, brands need to build a solid reputation for sustainability. Whether you’re selling a product or a service, customers can see through greenwashing, and they want to buy from purpose-driven brands whose actions speak louder than words. Dr. Andreas von der Gathen, co-CEO of global strategy consulting firm, Simon-Kucher & Partners, says:
“Today, 50 percent of consumers rank sustainability as a top five value driver. As expectations around sustainability climb, companies will face significant pressure to prove their sustainability credentials and continue to make it a central part of their value proposition.”
Some companies struggle to come up with concrete evidence for being a sustainable brand. But claiming a pioneering NZC building like The Forge as your workplace is something any brand can proudly shout about to investors, customers and employees alike.
To find out more, visit The Forge website: https://theforgebankside.com/
