93% of people believe sustainability and social factors are more important than ever, and 78% are frustrated with the lack of progress by businesses on these initiatives. Workplace leaders and operators are starting to take note.
As businesses and individuals increasingly seek eco-friendly solutions, sustainable coworking spaces have become a top trend.
With the growing demand for flexible workspaces and rising concerns over climate change, it's no surprise that green coworking spaces are gaining momentum. These eco-conscious offices combine the benefits of collaborative work environments with a focus on reducing their environmental impact. But what exactly are sustainable coworking spaces? Why should coworking spaces be green? And how can you make your own space more eco-friendly?
What Are Sustainable/Green Coworking Spaces?
A sustainable coworking space is a shared office environment that prioritizes environmentally friendly practices. These spaces go beyond just offering a place to work; they incorporate green principles such as energy efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable materials to minimize their environmental footprint. Sustainable coworking spaces also promote eco-conscious behavior among members, providing tools, resources, and policies that encourage sustainable practices.
Key Features of Sustainable Coworking Spaces
Energy efficiency: The space is designed to minimize energy consumption through the use of energy-efficient appliances, smart thermostats, and renewable energy sources like solar panels.
Waste reduction: Coworking spaces adopt waste-minimization strategies like recycling programs, composting, and reducing single-use plastics. They do away with paper, and instead employ online services for billing and management.
Sustainable materials: Eco-friendly furniture and building materials, such as recycled wood, bamboo, and non-toxic paints, are used in the design and construction of the space.
Indoor air quality: These spaces often incorporate plants, green walls, and non-toxic materials to improve air quality and provide a healthier environment.
Why Should Coworking Spaces Be Green? What are the Benefits of Green Coworking Spaces?
There are several compelling reasons why coworking spaces should prioritize sustainability. Not only does it benefit the environment, but it also offers long-term advantages for the business, its members, and the community.
1. Environmental Impact
Commercial buildings, including coworking spaces, account for a large portion of global greenhouse gas emissions. Commercial real estate accounts for 16% of global carbon dioxide emissions and 35% of electricity consumption just in the U.S. By implementing sustainable practices, coworking spaces can reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to global sustainability goals.
2. Cost Savings
Energy-efficient technologies, like LED lighting and smart HVAC systems, can lead to significant cost savings. Reducing waste through recycling and composting can also cut down on disposal fees. These savings can be passed on to members or reinvested in other initiatives.
3. Attracting Eco-Conscious Members
As sustainability becomes a top priority for both companies and freelancers, offering an eco-friendly coworking space is an attractive feature. Many businesses and individuals are actively seeking workspaces that align with their values. According to an IBM Institute survey, 71% of people are more likely to choose companies that prioritize environmental responsibility.
4. Improved Brand Image
A commitment to sustainability can improve the reputation of your coworking brand. Businesses and professionals increasingly value corporate social responsibility, and offering a green workplace can differentiate you from competitors.
Real-World Examples of Sustainable Coworking Spaces
Several coworking spaces around the world have set the standard for sustainability. These spaces use green technologies, promote environmentally friendly practices, and are committed to reducing their environmental footprint.
WeWork’s Sustainability Initiatives
WeWork, one of the largest coworking providers globally, has said they are trying to create sustainable workspaces. While the company aims to increase its use of renewable energy in the future, it is focused on achieving LEED certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) for many of its buildings and spaces. Several WeWork locations, including the Water Street location in Tampa, serve as prime example: this location features energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, and sustainable building materials, aligning with WeWork's broader efforts to reduce its environmental footprint and promote eco-friendly workspaces.
“We prioritize incorporating environmentally friendly products to minimize our carbon footprint. Additionally, we actively promote repair and recycling initiatives to reduce resource consumption,” WeWork says on its site.
Spaces by Regus is Prioritizing Being Green
Spaces, a coworking brand under the Regus umbrella, is known for its creative, flexible environments. Spaces De Walvis, Amsterdam, has transformed De Walvis in Amsterdam with a focus on sustainability. The building features BREEAM certification, triple-coated solar glass for energy efficiency, and abundant natural light. An indoor jungle adds to the eco-friendly atmosphere, and the space is working towards WELL certification, which evaluates environmental factors affecting health. Spaces Koneser, Warsaw, has renovated the Monopol building with sustainable materials and been awarded an interim BREEAM certificate for energy efficiency and light quality. The building’s outdoor terrace is irrigated using rainwater collection.
How to Create an Eco-Friendly Coworking Space
Whether you're managing a coworking space or simply want to make your current workspace more sustainable, there are numerous ways to go green. Here are practical tips to help you create an eco-friendly coworking environment:
1. Energy Efficiency
Install LED lighting: LED lights are energy-efficient and have a longer lifespan than traditional bulbs. Use motion sensors in common areas to reduce energy consumption.
Use smart thermostats: Smart thermostats can optimize heating and cooling based on occupancy, helping to reduce energy waste.
Consider renewable energy sources: If possible, switch to a renewable energy provider or install solar panels on your building’s roof to power your coworking space with clean energy.
2. Sustainable Materials
Choose eco-friendly furniture: Invest in sustainable furniture made from reclaimed or responsibly sourced materials like bamboo or FSC-certified wood.
Use non-toxic paints and finishes: Opt for paints with low or zero volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which contribute to indoor air pollution and can affect members' health.
3. Waste Reduction and Recycling
Implement a zero-waste policy: Reduce single-use plastics by providing reusable cups, cutlery, and water bottles. Set up clearly labeled recycling bins throughout the space to encourage waste segregation.
Composting programs: If your coworking space includes a kitchen or communal dining area, offer composting bins to help reduce food waste.
4. Improve Indoor Air Quality
Add indoor plants: Indoor plants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the workspace but also improve air quality by absorbing toxins and increasing oxygen levels.
Ventilation systems: Ensure the workspace has proper ventilation to reduce the buildup of indoor pollutants and provide fresh, clean air.
5. Sustainable Transportation Options
Bike racks and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations: Encourage members to commute using eco-friendly transportation methods by providing bike racks and charging stations for electric vehicles.
Carpooling initiatives: Set up a carpool program or partner with a local ride-sharing service to promote shared rides, reducing the number of cars on the road.
6. Get Certified
Sustainability Certifications: Obtain LEED certification or similar green building certifications to validate your coworking space’s environmental efforts. These certifications offer credibility and demonstrate that your space meets specific sustainability criteria.
Why Sustainable Coworking is the Future
As more businesses and individuals embrace environmental responsibility, sustainable coworking spaces are becoming essential to meeting the needs of the modern workforce. These spaces offer much more than just a green alternative—they actively contribute to increased productivity, better health, and cost savings.
By integrating energy-efficient technologies, using sustainable materials, reducing waste, and encouraging eco-friendly practices, these coworking spaces foster an environment that’s not only better for the planet but also better for the people working within it.
The benefits extend far beyond simply reducing environmental footprints: studies have shown that workplaces designed with sustainability in mind tend to boost employee well-being and engagement, helping businesses thrive in a competitive market. And the best part? Going green often leads to long-term savings through lower energy costs, waste reduction, and tax incentives.
Whether you’re launching a brand-new coworking space or looking to make your current one more sustainable, the choices you make today can create a lasting positive impact—not only on the environment but also on your business’s bottom line
Embracing sustainability isn’t just good for the Earth—it’s a smart, forward-thinking business strategy that aligns with the growing demand for eco-conscious workplaces. The future of coworking is green, and those who embrace it will be leading the charge toward a more sustainable, profitable future.
FAQ
What is a sustainable coworking space?
A sustainable coworking space is a shared office that focuses on minimizing its environmental impact. This includes using eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient lighting, and paperless systems. Many spaces also incorporate natural light and indoor plants to create a healthier, more productive work environment.
What makes a workspace "green"?
A green workspace is designed to be eco-friendly and promote a healthy environment. These spaces use recycled materials, energy-efficient appliances, and eco-friendly furniture. They also focus on reducing waste, optimizing natural lighting, and improving air quality with plants or green walls.
Why choose a green coworking space?
People choose green coworking spaces to align with their values of sustainability and environmental responsibility. These spaces attract members who are committed to reducing their carbon footprint and working in a community that shares similar eco-conscious goals.
How can you create a green workspace?
To create a green workspace, begin by choosing sustainable materials like recycled furniture and eco-friendly paints. Make the most of natural light and add plants to improve air quality. Adopt waste-reduction practices, such as recycling and transitioning to paperless systems. Invest in energy-efficient appliances and promote eco-friendly habits among your team to minimize your overall environmental footprint.
Can a coworking space be stylish and sustainable?
Yes! A sustainable workspace can be both functional and stylish. Many green coworking spaces use materials like reclaimed wood, natural stone, and recycled metals to create an aesthetically pleasing environment. Biophilic design, which integrates plants and natural elements, can add both beauty and health benefits to the space.
