Be Part of Something Bigger than Yourself: Action Items for a Sustainable Office or Industrial Building

Environmental responsibility is no longer just a good idea, it’s a necessity.  For businesses that operate corporate offices or industrial buildings, there are a wealth of ways to become more eco-friendly.  These changes not only benefit the planet, but can also save your company money on utilities and waste disposal.

Here are some actionable steps that Hiffman is taking and that you can implement in your daily work routine:

Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle:

• Rethink Your Relationship with Plastic: According to the EPA, less than 9% of plastic generated is actually recycled, the rest ends up in oceans or landfills. Ditch single-use plastics like water bottles and coffee cups. Encourage employees to bring reusable alternatives. Choose products with minimal plastic packaging.
• Implement a Robust Recycling Program: One way to increase the recycling rate is to recycle correctly. Just because something is made from plastic or paper doesn’t mean it’s recyclable! Check your Waste Service Provider’s website, many providers will specify what and how you should recycle items. Some providers even have downloadable signage you can use. Consider composting food scraps if your facilities allow.
• Minimize Paper Use: Move towards a paperless office by utilizing cloud storage and electronic document sharing. When printing is necessary, use double-sided printing and recycled paper.

Power Down and Conserve Energy:

• Invest in Efficiency: Upgrade lighting to LED bulbs and install smart power strips that automatically shut off electronics when not in use. Consider replacing older appliances with Energy Star certified models.
• Be Mindful of Usage: Encourage employees to turn off lights and electronics when leaving a room, and adjust thermostats for optimal temperature control and unplug computer chargers when you’re at a comfortable battery level.
• If your office is able to, take advantage of daylight or use desk lamps to cut down on overhead lighting when feasible.

Cultivate a Green Culture:

• Educate and Empower Employees: Hold workshops or training sessions to educate staff on sustainable practices in the workplace.
• Recognize Green Champions: Celebrate employees who consistently go the extra mile for sustainability initiatives.
• Partner with Eco-Conscious Vendors: Choose suppliers who prioritize sustainable practices in their own operations.

Additional Considerations for Industrial Buildings:

• Optimize Production Processes: Analyze and streamline your production lines to minimize waste and energy consumption.
• Invest in Water-Saving Technologies: Implement water-saving fixtures and explore water recycling options where applicable.
• Install native plants and flowers. There are plants that have adapted to your area’s climate, so they require less water and maintenance. These plants are also better for the local ecosystem. Native plant gardens are a great way to give your company a welcoming green space to take a break from your desk.
• Properly Dispose of Hazardous Materials: Partner with certified waste management companies to ensure safe and eco-friendly disposal of hazardous materials.

By implementing these action items, your company can significantly reduce its environmental footprint. Remember, going green is a journey, not a destination. Start small, track your progress, and celebrate your achievements along the way. A more sustainable workplace benefits not only the environment, but also your bottom line and company culture. Hiffman workers with a number of Trusted partners that can help with your journey.

For more information on Hiffman’s ESG initiatives, contact Hiffman Management Services:

630-932-1234
mgmtops@hiffman.com

About Hiffman National: 

Hiffman National is one of the US’s largest independent commercial real estate property management and advisory firms, providing institutional and private clients exceptional customized solutions for property management, facility management, advisory services, accounting, lease administration, lender services, project management, marketing, and research. The firm’s comprehensive property management platform and attentive approach to service contribute to successful life-long relationships and client satisfaction. As a nationally bestowed Top Workplace, and recognized CRE award winner, Hiffman National is headquartered in suburban Chicago, with more than 250 employees nationally and an additional six hub locations and 25 satellite offices across North America.

About NAI Hiffman:  

NAI Hiffman is one of the largest independent commercial real estate services firms in the US, with a primary focus on metropolitan Chicago, and part of the NAI Global network. We provide institutional and private leasing, property management, tenant representation, capital markets, project services, research, and marketing services for owners and occupiers of commercial real estate. To meet our clients’ growing needs outside of our exclusive NAI Hiffman territory, we launched Hiffman National, our dedicated property solutions division, which provides property management, project services, and property accounting services across the country. NAI Hiffman | Hiffman National is and award winning company headquartered in suburban Chicago, with more than 250 employees strategically located throughout North America.