The rewards of sustainability for tenants
In a best-case scenario, commercial tenants of sustainable properties benefit in several ways. They demonstrably improve their carbon footprint, often have more productive employees and typically make a contribution to protecting the environment. The operating costs are also lower than those of comparable non-sustainable buildings.
Individual requirements and solutions
Despite a plethora of certification schemes and quality marks, there is still no binding standard that defines a sustainable building. Every sustainable new build or upgraded building has its own individual features. That makes finding the right property more difficult for tenants, but also allows them to focus on specific aspects which are important to them.
Comfort and flexibility for fast-moving companies
One sustainability factor that no company can really ignore is a productive working environment. The perfect technical fit-out, good lighting, a pleasant room climate and intelligent subdivision are more than just nice touches.
Sustainable buildings are generally characterised by a high degree of structural flexibility. Thanks to flexible partition systems, room layouts can be altered quickly without creating undue noise and dirt. For fast-moving companies with changing teams or a growing workforce, such buildings represent the ideal choice.
Healthier spaces
Pollutant-free or low-pollutant materials, i.e. paint and adhesives, or indeed carpets, contribute to the health of all occupiers. With careful planning, it is possible to specify such materials without incurring significant additional cost. Some measures, on the other hand, do come with a price tag, such as halogen-free cabling which does not emit toxic gases in the event of fire.
Low operating costs
Virtually all companies share a desire for low operating costs. Energy-efficient, sustainable buildings can offer significant financial benefits in this regard. Modern windows, insulated façades and intelligent ventilation all drive down heating bills, while water-saving sanitary fittings likewise reduce costs. Additional comfort features, such as interior cooling, may require more electricity, but intelligent, sustainable buildings perform better in this respect than conventional buildings with comparable comfort. In the certified Emporio office tower in Hamburg, for example, the blinds are raised and lowered automatically according to the amount of sunlight, thereby significantly reducing the need for additional cooling in hot weather. In areas such as this, a genuinely sustainable building stands out compared with a property that merely offers a high level of comfort.
Monitoring and optimisation
Proper recording of consumption data should be a feature of every well-managed sustainable building. Having this information available makes it possible to identify scope for optimisation during ongoing operation and also enables prompt detection and resolution of any problems. Close cooperation between landlord and occupier pays off for both sides here.
Good for the (work) climate
Sustainability also has a positive impact in sociocultural terms. Exceeding standards with regard to aspects such as barrier-free access offers genuine benefits for those concerned and helps to create a positive workplace climate. "Soft" factors meanwhile, like adequate provision of covered and secure bicycle parking spaces, can contribute to the attractiveness and credibility of employers who embrace sustainability.
For tenants, it therefore pays to examine a building in detail. Occupiers of a sustainable property will generally reap rewards. These include low operating costs, a high degree of comfort and reputational benefits, all of which can positively affect the success of a business. The fact that the environment also gains is a welcome bonus.
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