New Report on the Benefits of Green Offices

For the first time, the World Green Buildings Council have released a report on the benefits for businesses of healthy, green buildings.

The report centers around 15 case studies from across the world which demonstrate the link between green office buildings, health, well-being and productivity in the workplace. It also outlines 8 key actions businesses can take to improve the quality of their workplace and boost their bottom line. Please see press release below and infographic and report attached.

The new report Building the Business Case: Health, Well-being and Productivity in Green Offices highlights the global momentum behind healthy and green office design and operation, and showcases over 15 buildings from around the world that are leading the way. Green offices keep staff healthy and happy, improve productivity and boosts business’ bottom line.

Below are 3 examples demonstrating the tangible action business are taking with significant results:

1. Skanska, UK; cut sick days by two thirds by improving layout and noise, indoor air quality and lighting. Saving the company £28,000 in staff costs.
2. Heerema Marine Contractors, Amsterdam; expect to realise a net present value of €42 million over 20 years of productivity, staff retention & reduced absenteeism.
3. Saint-Gobain, US; call centre staff doubled their productivity after moving into the new building, with 97% increase in sales-generated leads.

WGBC are offering a toolkit, identifying the following 8 key factors in creating healthier and greener offices to impact the bottom line:

1. Indoor Air Quality and Ventilation
2. Thermal Comfort
3. Daylighting and Lighting
4. Noise and Acoustics
5. Interior Layout and Design
6. Biophilia and Views
7. Look and Feel
8. Location and Access to Amenities

Terri Wills, CEO of the World Green Building Council, said: “While our earlier work presented the overwhelming evidence between office design and improved health and wellbeing of workers, this report breaks new ground by demonstrating tangible action businesses are taking to improve their workspaces. The results are clear – putting both health and wellbeing, and the environment, at the heart of buildings, is a no brainer for businesses’ employees and the bottom line.”