Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword in facilities management – it is now a vital part of how modern buildings are operated and maintained. For property owners and managers in New Zealand, adopting sustainable best practices is not only about reducing environmental impact but also about improving efficiency, lowering costs, and future-proofing assets.
At Hallmark & Stone, we believe that sustainability should be at the heart of every facilities management strategy. In this post, we explore why sustainability matters, outline practical best practices, and answer common questions to help you make informed decisions for your property.
Importance of Sustainability in Facilities Management
Sustainable facilities management is about using resources wisely, minimising waste, and ensuring that buildings operate efficiently for the long term. The benefits extend far beyond environmental stewardship:
- Cost Savings: Energy and water efficiency measures can significantly reduce utility bills.
- Asset Longevity: Sustainable operations and maintenance extend the lifespan of equipment and building systems.
- Tenant Attraction and Retention: More tenants are seeking green buildings, and sustainability credentials can set your property apart.
- Regulatory Compliance: New Zealand’s building codes and climate commitments increasingly require sustainable practices.
- Reputation and Market Value: Sustainable buildings are viewed more favourably by investors, insurers, and the public.
Sustainability is now a core expectation in facilities management, supporting both business goals and community wellbeing.
Facilities Management Best Practices
Implementing sustainability in facilities management is a journey, not a one-off project. Here are the best practices that leading facility managers use to drive real results:
1. Assess and Set Sustainability Goals
Start with a comprehensive sustainability audit of your facility. Analyse energy use, water consumption, waste generation, and current maintenance practices. Based on this, set clear, measurable goals-such as reducing energy usage by 20% over two years. These targets provide a roadmap for action and help track progress over time.
2. Develop a Strategic Sustainability Plan
A well-defined strategy is essential for effective facilities management. This plan should align with your organisation’s core values and long-term vision, prioritise objectives, and outline specific initiatives and timelines. Regularly review and update the plan to respond to changing needs and opportunities.
3. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
Implement energy-saving measures such as:
- Upgrading to LED lighting.
- Installing energy-efficient HVAC systems.
- Using smart building management systems (BMS) to monitor and optimise energy use.
- Transitioning to renewable energy sources like solar or wind where possible.
These steps lower operating costs and reduce your facility’s carbon footprint68.
4. Sustainable Operations and Maintenance
Adopt eco-friendly cleaning products, reduce water consumption, and establish comprehensive recycling and composting programs. Regular maintenance and timely repairs help equipment last longer, reducing waste and the need for frequent replacements.
5. Proactive Maintenance: Preventive and Predictive
- Preventive maintenance involves scheduled inspections and servicing based on time or usage, helping prevent breakdowns and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
- Predictive maintenance uses real-time data from sensors to anticipate failures, allowing for just-in-time repairs that minimise downtime and unnecessary work.
Combining both approaches ensures reliability, reduces costs, and supports sustainability goals.
6. Use of Sustainable Materials and Practices
Choose materials and products with low environmental impact, such as low-VOC paints, recycled materials, and energy-efficient appliances. Encourage vendors and contractors to follow sustainable practices as part of your procurement process.
7. Regular Inspections and Monitoring
Continuous monitoring of building systems helps identify inefficiencies and areas for improvement. Use BMS and data analytics to track performance, optimise operations, and support transparent sustainability reporting.
8. Engage and Educate Occupants
Sustainability is a team effort. Educate tenants and staff about sustainable behaviours-such as turning off lights, reducing water use, and sorting waste correctly. Engagement drives better results and fosters a culture of sustainability within your facility.
Conclusion
Sustainability in facilities management is both a responsibility and an opportunity. By following best practices-setting clear goals, developing a strategic plan, investing in energy efficiency, and adopting proactive maintenance-property owners and managers can create buildings that are efficient, resilient, and attractive to tenants. At Hallmark & Stone, we help Wellington property owners implement these best practices to future-proof their assets and support a more sustainable New Zealand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are best practices important in facilities management?
Best practices ensure that facilities are managed efficiently, safely, and sustainably. They help standardise processes, reduce costs, improve compliance, and enhance the overall performance and value of your property.
How does strategic planning apply to facilities management?
Strategic planning in facilities management means understanding your organisation’s goals, assessing current conditions, and developing a roadmap for operations, maintenance, and improvements. This approach helps anticipate future needs, allocate resources effectively, and ensure that facilities support business objectives.
What is the difference between preventive and predictive maintenance?
- Preventive maintenance is scheduled at regular intervals, regardless of the asset’s current condition – it’s about preventing problems before they happen.
- Predictive maintenance uses real-time data and condition monitoring to predict when maintenance is actually needed, allowing for more targeted and efficient interventions.
Both approaches are proactive and help reduce downtime, but predictive maintenance requires more technology and data analysis to implement.
For tailored advice on implementing sustainable facilities management best practices in Wellington, contact Hallmark & Stone – your partner in building a greener, more efficient future.
Related Reading
- What is Facilities Management, and Why is it Essential?
- Key Components of Effective Facilities Management
- The Benefits of Outsourcing Facilities Management
