01 Jul 5 Tips to Incorporate Circular Practices in Your Office Design
In recent years, the concept of a circular economy has gained traction as a sustainable approach to business operations. A circular office strategy involves transforming the business in every department, from procurement to building design, with the aim of benefiting the planet, improving ROI, and boosting employee well-being.
Sustainable building rating schemes such as LEED, DGNB, BREEAM, and WELL offer guidance on how to ensure modern office design meets environmental standards.
But why should circular practices matter to HR departments in 2024?
Embracing circular practices in office design is not just about being environmentally conscious – it also has significant benefits for employees.
A circular economy approach promotes a healthier and more sustainable work environment, which we know can lead to improved employee well-being, productivity, and job satisfaction.
By prioritizing circular practices in office design, companies also demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and employee welfare, which can improve their reputation and attract top talent.
The opposite is also true.
Millennial and Gen Z workers expect companies to follow circular practices
As we recently shared on our social channels, the concept of ‘Climate Quitting’ is gaining traction among Millennials and Gen Zs.
It’s when people leave a company – or don’t take a job there in the first place – when they feel it’s not doing its best for the environment. According to recent Deloitte research up to 40% of employees in these age groups would switch companies for a more eco conscious one.
Showing new talent your company is conscious of circular practices by implementing it into your office space design is a great way to walk the walk.
Read on for our top 5 tips on how to do this.
5 Ways to Implement Circular Practices in Your Office Design
1. Bring Nature In
Incorporating plants into the office space can improve air quality, reduce noise distractions, and create a more pleasant and productive work environment. Consider creating indoor gardens or green walls to bring nature indoors and boost employee well-being.
2. Harness Natural Light
Design office spaces with ample natural light to save energy costs and improve employee mood and productivity. Open layouts with workstations near windows can maximize natural light exposure, while ceilings with high light reflection and diffusion can effectively utilize natural light and reduce the need for artificial lighting.
3. Embrace Modular Furniture
Opt for modular office furniture that is easy to disassemble, reconfigure, and reuse. Modular chairs, shelving, and partitions offer flexibility and adaptability, allowing for quick and easy changes to office layouts as needed.
4. Plan for Reconfigurations
Design your workplace spaces with disassembly in mind, using demountable partitions and modular systems that can be easily reconfigured and repurposed. By planning for disassembly from the beginning, you create a more sustainable and adaptable workspace that can evolve with the changing needs of your business.
5. Love Sustainable Materials
Choose eco-friendly and recyclable materials for office furniture, finishes, and fixtures. Opt for products made from renewable resources, recycled materials, or materials that can be easily recycled at the end of their lifecycle. By incorporating sustainable materials into your office design, you reduce your environmental impact and create a healthier work environment for employees.
To sum up…
By embracing circular practices in your office design, you not only contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally-friendly workplace but also prioritize employee well-being and satisfaction, and significantly answer the needs of today’s Gen Z employees. Implementing these strategies can lead to a more productive, innovative, and attractive work environment that benefits both the planet and your workforce. What are you waiting for?
Need our help in creating an eco-conscious office space? Get in touch with RI Workplace today.
