A Guide to Sustainability in UK Purpose Built Student Accommodation: Challenges and Opportunities

sustainable interiors for a Purpose Built Student Accommodation building (a.i. generated image by biofilico)

The State of Sustainable Student Housing

Introduction to Student Accommodation UK Sustainability

The global push towards sustainability is reshaping industries, and the real estate sector is no exception. As the UK strives to meet its ambitious net-zero targets and combat climate change, the Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) sector is under increasing pressure to adapt. The urgency of addressing the climate crisis makes it essential for sustainable student accommodation to be a priority.

This sector, catering specifically to students, must integrate sustainability into its core operations to meet the evolving expectations of a new generation of eco-conscious students.

This comprehensive guide explores the landscape of sustainable student accommodation in the UK, highlighting the challenges and opportunities inherent in transforming this sector to be more environmentally responsible.

Understanding the PBSA Sector

What is Purpose Built Student Accommodation?

Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) is a specialized segment of the real estate market designed exclusively to meet the housing needs of students. Unlike traditional housing options, PBSA developments are constructed by private developers and tailored specifically for student life.

They typically feature a mix of shared flats or private studios and are equipped with amenities like modern study areas, reliable Wi-Fi, and communal spaces aimed at fostering a vibrant and conducive study environment.

In recent years, the PBSA sector has expanded rapidly in the UK, driven by the increasing demand for quality student housing. These accommodations offer more than just a place to live; they provide a unique living and learning experience designed to support students academically and socially. However, as the sector grows, so does its environmental footprint, raising important questions about sustainability.

Sustainability Challenges in Purpose Built Student Accommodation

Environmental Impact of Student Housing: The environmental impact of student housing is significant, with the sector grappling with issues like high carbon emissions, substantial energy consumption, and extensive waste generation. Student tenants play a crucial role in promoting sustainability by adopting eco-conscious practices and supporting sustainable housing initiatives. Here’s a closer look at the key challenges:

Energy Consumption and Carbon Emissions: Student accommodations typically have high energy demands due to the need for heating, cooling, and lighting, compounded by the use of electronic devices and appliances by residents. This contributes to substantial carbon emissions, posing a significant challenge in aligning with the UK’s net-zero targets.

Air Quality: Indoor air quality is another pressing concern. The concentration of pollutants indoors can be higher than outdoors, and poor air quality can affect the health and well-being of students. Ensuring proper ventilation and using low-emission materials are critical steps towards improving indoor air quality.

Waste Management: The volume of waste generated in student accommodations is considerable, often including food waste, packaging, and disposable items. Effective waste management strategies are essential to minimize the environmental impact and promote recycling and waste reduction practices among students.

Water Conservation: Water usage in student housing can be excessive, driven by daily necessities and lifestyle choices. Implementing water-saving technologies and encouraging mindful water use are vital in reducing the environmental impact of these facilities.

Affordable and Sustainable Housing: Balancing affordability with sustainability is a key challenge. While there is a growing demand for green buildings, the cost of sustainable construction and the potential for higher rents can make it difficult to provide affordable student housing that also meets environmental standards.

sustainable interiors for a Purpose Built Student Accommodation building (a.i. generated image by biofilico)

Overcoming Sustainability Challenges in Purpose Built student accommodation

ESG Regulations and Governance in PBSA

The integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles is becoming increasingly important in the student housing market. Driven by government mandates and market dynamics, ESG considerations are shaping the way developers, property managers, and tenants approach sustainability.

Regulatory Landscape: The UK government has implemented various regulations aimed at promoting sustainability in the real estate sector. These include building performance standards, energy efficiency requirements, and incentives for the use of renewable energy. Staying compliant with these regulations is crucial for PBSA developers and operators.

Market Dynamics: Beyond regulatory requirements, there is a growing market-driven push towards sustainability. Students and their families are increasingly prioritizing environmentally friendly living spaces, and universities are incorporating sustainability into their campus planning and housing strategies. This shift is creating a competitive edge for PBSA providers who can demonstrate strong ESG credentials.

Adapting to Evolving Expectations: To meet the demands of eco-conscious students, PBSA providers must integrate ESG considerations into every aspect of their operations. This includes designing and constructing energy-efficient buildings, implementing sustainable management practices, and engaging with residents on sustainability issues.

Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Student Housing

To address these challenges and seize the opportunities for sustainable development, the PBSA sector is exploring a range of innovative solutions:

Eco-Friendly Design and Construction: Sustainable student housing schemes begin with the design and construction phase. Incorporating green building principles, such as using sustainable materials, optimizing natural light, and ensuring efficient energy use, can significantly reduce the environmental impact of new developments.

Energy Efficiency: Implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices is critical in reducing the carbon footprint of student accommodations. This can include the use of smart thermostats, energy-efficient lighting, and renewable energy sources like solar panels. Retrofitting existing buildings with these technologies can also play a significant role in improving sustainability.

Waste Reduction: Reducing waste and promoting recycling are essential components of sustainable student housing. This can be achieved through measures such as providing comprehensive recycling facilities, encouraging the use of reusable items, and implementing waste reduction programs.

Sustainable Materials: The choice of materials used in construction and furnishing has a major impact on the sustainability of student housing. Opting for materials with low environmental impact, such as recycled or locally sourced materials, can help reduce the overall carbon footprint.

AI and Smart Technologies: The use of AI and smart technologies offers new possibilities for enhancing the sustainability of student accommodations. Smart building systems can optimize energy use, monitor air quality, and manage water consumption more efficiently. AI-driven solutions can also improve the management and maintenance of facilities, leading to more sustainable operations.

Environmental Stewardship and Accountability: Adopting policies that prioritize environmental stewardship and transparency is essential for PBSA providers. This includes setting measurable sustainability goals, regularly reporting on progress, and engaging with stakeholders on environmental issues.

Detailed Analysis and Implementation Strategies

Now that we've outlined the challenges and opportunities, let’s delve deeper into the practical strategies and innovations that can drive sustainability in student accommodation. This section focuses on how developers and operators can implement sustainable practices effectively.

Practical Strategies for Purpose Built Student Accommodation Developers and Operators

Design and Construction

Passive Design Principles: Passive design strategies, such as orienting buildings to maximize natural light and ventilation, can significantly reduce energy use. Incorporating features like green roofs and walls can enhance insulation and provide natural cooling, reducing the need for air conditioning.

Sustainable Construction Practices: Emphasizing sustainable construction practices, such as using recycled materials and minimizing waste during construction, can lower the environmental impact. Prefabricated construction methods can also reduce waste and improve efficiency.

BREEAM and LEED Certification: Adhering to building certification standards like BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) or LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) can help ensure that new developments meet high sustainability standards.

Energy Management as part of an environmental sustainability strategy

Renewable Energy Integration: Incorporating renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines, into the energy mix of student accommodations can significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions.

Energy Monitoring and Management: Implementing smart energy management systems that monitor and optimize energy use can help identify inefficiencies and reduce consumption. These systems can also provide valuable data for continuous improvement.

Incentives for Energy Efficiency: Offering incentives for energy-efficient behavior, such as reduced rent or utility costs for low energy use, can encourage students to adopt more sustainable habits.

Water Conservation

Low-Flow Fixtures: Installing low-flow fixtures, such as showerheads and faucets, can reduce water use without compromising functionality. Dual-flush toilets can also help save water.

Rainwater Harvesting: Implementing rainwater harvesting systems can provide a sustainable source of water for non-potable uses, such as irrigation and toilet flushing.

Greywater Recycling: Recycling greywater from sinks and showers for reuse in flushing toilets and irrigation can further reduce water consumption.

Waste Management

Comprehensive Recycling Programs: Providing accessible and well-labeled recycling facilities encourages students to separate their waste and reduces the amount of waste sent to landfill.

Composting Initiatives: Introducing composting programs for food waste can reduce the volume of waste and provide valuable compost for landscaping or community gardens.

Education and Engagement: Educating students about waste reduction and recycling through campaigns and workshops can foster a culture of sustainability.

Embracing Technological Innovations in Student accommodation

Smart Building Technologies

IoT Integration: The Internet of Things (IoT) enables the integration of various building systems, allowing for real-time monitoring and control. This can enhance energy efficiency, improve maintenance, and provide a more comfortable living environment.

Smart Thermostats and Lighting: Installing smart thermostats and lighting systems that adjust based on occupancy and natural light levels can reduce energy use and enhance comfort.

Building Management Systems (BMS): Advanced BMS can optimize the operation of building systems, such as heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC), to improve efficiency and reduce energy consumption.

AI and Data Analytics

Predictive Maintenance: AI can analyze data from building systems to predict maintenance needs before issues arise, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency.

Energy Optimization: AI algorithms can analyze energy use patterns and suggest optimizations to reduce consumption and costs.

Resident Engagement: AI-driven platforms can provide personalized recommendations to residents on how to reduce their energy and water use, enhancing their engagement with sustainability initiatives.

sustainable interiors for a Purpose Built Student Accommodation building (a.i. generated image by biofilico)

The Role of Stakeholders in Student accommodation

Developers and Investors

Sustainable Investment Criteria: Investors are increasingly prioritizing sustainability in their decision-making. Developers who can demonstrate strong ESG performance are more likely to attract investment.

Long-Term Value Creation: Sustainable buildings tend to have lower operating costs, higher occupancy rates, and increased property values, creating long-term value for developers and investors.

Universities and Educational Institutions

Partnerships with PBSA Providers: Universities can partner with PBSA providers to ensure that student accommodations align with their sustainability goals and provide a high-quality living environment for students.

Sustainability in Campus Planning: Integrating sustainability into campus planning, including the design and operation of student accommodations, supports the broader educational mission and enhances the institution’s reputation.

Students and Residents

Active Participation: Students play a crucial role in the sustainability of their accommodations. Engaging them in sustainability initiatives and encouraging responsible behavior can significantly impact overall performance.

Feedback and Improvement: Providing channels for students to give feedback on sustainability practices can help identify areas for improvement and foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.

Conclusion on student accommodation - sustainability professionals opinion

The journey towards sustainable student accommodation in the UK is complex but essential. By addressing the environmental challenges and leveraging innovative solutions, the PBSA sector can make significant strides towards a more sustainable future.

This guide highlights the critical role that developers, operators, and students play in this transformation and underscores the importance of a collaborative approach to achieving sustainability goals.

As we move forward, it is imperative that the sector continues to prioritize environmental stewardship, adopt best practices, and embrace new technologies.

At Biofilico, we are committed to supporting this transition and helping create a greener, more sustainable future for student housing. Explore more about our initiatives and how we can support your sustainability journey at Biofilico.

References:

1. Student Housing Sustainability Challenges

2. PBSA and ESG Integration

3. Innovations in Sustainable Construction

4. AI in Smart Buildings

Fusion Group: Leading the Way in Sustainable and Wellbeing-Focused Student Accommodation

With a commitment to creating environments that are not only eco-friendly but also nurturing and supportive for students, Fusion Group has positioned itself at the forefront of the PBSA sector.

Their approach integrates cutting-edge sustainability practices with a deep focus on the well-being of their residents, setting new standards in the industry.

Commitment to Sustainability in student accommodation

Fusion Group’s dedication to sustainability is evident in every aspect of their operations, from the design and construction of their buildings to their day-to-day management practices. Here’s how Fusion Group is leading the charge towards a greener future:

1. Sustainable Design and Construction: Fusion Group employs sustainable design principles that minimize environmental impact while enhancing the living experience for students. Their buildings are constructed using materials that are sustainably sourced and have a low environmental footprint. By incorporating features such as green roofs, solar panels, and efficient building envelopes, Fusion Group ensures that their properties are designed to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions from the outset.

2. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy: A key component of Fusion Group’s sustainability strategy is the focus on energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy. Their properties are equipped with advanced energy management systems that optimize the use of heating, cooling, and lighting, significantly reducing energy consumption. By integrating renewable energy sources, like solar panels, they are able to lower carbon emissions and operational costs, demonstrating their commitment to reducing the environmental impact of their buildings.

3. Water Conservation and Waste Reduction: Water conservation is a critical area where Fusion Group excels. Their accommodations feature water-efficient fixtures and systems that reduce overall water use. Additionally, Fusion Group implements comprehensive waste management programs that encourage recycling and minimize waste generation. These initiatives not only lower the environmental impact but also educate and engage students in sustainable practices.

Fostering Student Well-Being in Purpose built student accommodation pbsa

Fusion Group’s approach to student accommodation goes beyond environmental sustainability. They place a significant emphasis on the well-being and holistic development of their residents.

Recognizing that the student experience is about more than just a place to live, Fusion Group creates spaces that support the mental, physical, and social health of students.

1. Healthy Living Environments: Their properties are designed with the well-being of students in mind, offering plenty of natural light, good ventilation, and access to green spaces. Fusion Group understands the importance of indoor air quality and employs technologies and materials that minimize pollutants and promote a healthy living environment.

2. Community and Social Well-Being: Fusion Group fosters a strong sense of community within their developments. They provide communal areas and amenities that encourage social interaction and collaboration, essential components of a supportive student community. From well-equipped study spaces to social lounges and fitness centers, Fusion Group’s accommodations are designed to enhance the student experience and foster a sense of belonging.

3. Support Services and Programs: Understanding the pressures of student life, Fusion Group offers a range of support services and programs aimed at promoting mental and emotional well-being. These include wellness workshops, counseling services, and activities that encourage a balanced lifestyle. By providing these resources, Fusion Group helps students navigate the challenges of academic life and thrive in their personal development.

ESG Initiatives and Ethical Practices

Fusion Group’s commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles is integral to their business strategy. They recognize that sustainable development must go hand-in-hand with ethical governance and social responsibility.

1. Ethical Governance: Fusion Group adheres to stringent governance standards that ensure transparency, accountability, and ethical behavior across all levels of their organization. Their decision-making processes are aligned with their commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, ensuring that they operate with integrity and in the best interests of their stakeholders.

2. Social Responsibility: Beyond their immediate business operations, Fusion Group is dedicated to making a positive impact on the broader community. They engage in initiatives that support local communities and contribute to social causes, reflecting their commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen.

3. Stakeholder Engagement: Fusion Group actively involves all stakeholders, including students, staff, and partners, in their ESG initiatives. By fostering open communication and collaboration, they ensure that their sustainability and well-being goals are shared and supported across the board.

Conclusion

Fusion Group exemplifies how PBSA providers can lead the way in integrating sustainability and student well-being into their operations. Their holistic approach, which combines environmental stewardship with a deep commitment to the welfare of their residents, sets a benchmark for the industry.

As they continue to innovate and evolve, Fusion Group remains a trailblazer in creating student accommodations that are not only sustainable but also nurturing and enriching environments for the next generation.

Top Tips for Sustainable Interiors: A Designer's Guide to Eco-Friendly Spaces

organic office interior design (a.i. generated image by biofilico)

In the realm of sustainable interior design, a planet-focused approach has transcended from a mere trend to a foundational strategy with broad appeal across market segments; it integrates environmental stewardship, health, and community well-being.

For multi-family residential developments, hotels, and commercial real estate like office spaces, adopting sustainable design practices, including eco friendly interior design, is not only a nod to eco-consciousness but a strategic move towards future-proofing spaces for an evolving market.

At Biofilico, we believe in harnessing the power of nature-centric design, also known as biophilic design, to create interiors that are as sustainable as they are beautiful. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the path to sustainable interior design. Clients are increasingly seeking to incorporate sustainability principles into their interior design projects.

Introduction to Sustainable Interior Design

Sustainable interior design is a holistic approach that seeks to minimize the negative environmental impacts of spaces through thoughtful design choices. It emphasizes the use of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and strategies to reduce waste and promote long-term use. Here’s why it’s crucial:

Environmental Impact: Buildings significantly contribute to the world's greenhouse gas emissions and resource consumption. By adopting sustainable practices, we can reduce the footprint of our interiors, conserving resources and decreasing waste.

Health Benefits: Sustainable design strategies often improve indoor air quality and create healthier environments for occupants. The US Environmental Protection Agency identifies indoor air pollution as a top five threat to human health. Non-toxic materials, better ventilation, and natural light all contribute to the well-being of residents, guests, and employees.

Community and Economic Benefits: Beyond the direct environmental and health benefits, sustainable design supports local economies through the use of local materials and fosters a sense of responsibility towards the community.

Sustainable Design Principles

Designing for Energy Efficiency and Low Environmental Impact

Improving a building's energy efficiency is pivotal in reducing a building’s carbon footprint. Key strategies include:

Optimizing Natural Light: Incorporating large windows and skylights can significantly reduce the need for artificial lighting, lowering energy consumption. Utilizing advanced window treatments can help regulate interior temperatures, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency.

Efficient HVAC Systems: High-performance heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are essential. In multi-family and commercial buildings, zoned systems can ensure energy is used efficiently across different areas.

Renewable Energy Integration: Where feasible, integrating solar panels or other renewable energy sources can offset traditional energy use, making a substantial environmental impact.

Designing for Waste Reduction and Longevity

The goal is to minimize waste and maximize the lifespan of materials and furnishings.

Reuse and Repurpose: Instead of discarding old items, find innovative ways to give them a new life. This could include repurposing old furniture or using reclaimed materials for new construction elements.

Quality Over Quantity: Invest in high-quality, durable products that will last longer and perform better over time. This approach reduces the frequency of replacements and the associated environmental costs. Creating durable and timeless spaces that can adapt to changing needs over time is essential for sustainable design.

Sustainable Materials and Products

Choosing Low-Impact Materials for Interior Design

Sustainable materials are characterized by their renewability, low toxicity, and minimal environmental impact.

Natural and Renewable: Opt for natural materials like bamboo, cork, and responsibly sourced wood. These materials are renewable and often have lower environmental impacts compared to traditional options.

Recycled and Upcycled: Use products made from recycled content, such as recycled metals or glass. This reduces the demand for virgin materials and helps divert waste from landfills.

Non-Toxic Finishes: Choose paints, finishes, and adhesives that are low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) to ensure better indoor air quality. Choosing low-VOC products helps address indoor air pollution, which is identified as one of the top five threats to human health by the US Environmental Protection Agency.

Sourcing Sustainable Materials and Products

Where materials come from and how they are produced is as important as the materials themselves.

1. Local Sourcing: Prioritize locally sourced materials to reduce transportation emissions and support the local economy. Local products often come with the added benefit of unique craftsmanship and cultural relevance.

Fair Trade Products: Supporting fair trade means ensuring that products are made under fair labor conditions, which promotes equity and transparency in the global supply chain.

Certified Sustainable: Look for certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) for wood products, or Cradle to Cradle for overall sustainability, which provide assurance of eco-friendly practices.

organic office interior design (a.i. generated image by biofilico)

Working with Interior Designers

Hiring an Interior Designer for Sustainable Interior Design Projects

A professional interior designer specializing in sustainability can guide you through the complex process of creating eco-friendly spaces.

Expert Knowledge: They stay updated on the latest eco-friendly practices and technologies, ensuring your project leverages the best solutions for sustainability. A professional interior designer can also help address issues identified by the Environmental Protection Agency, such as indoor air pollution.

Holistic Approach: Designers consider the entire lifecycle of materials and products, from production to disposal, ensuring each choice supports your sustainability goals.

What to Look for in an Interior Designer Specializing in Sustainable Design

Selecting the right designer is critical to achieving your sustainability objectives.

Portfolio Review: Examine their past projects to see how they have incorporated sustainability into their designs. Look for examples that align with your vision for energy efficiency, air quality, and waste reduction.

Certifications and Training: Ensure they have the relevant credentials, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, which demonstrate their commitment to sustainable practices.

Material Knowledge: A good sustainable designer should be knowledgeable about the latest eco-friendly materials and be able to source and recommend the best options for your project.

Eco-Friendly Design Strategies

Incorporating Energy-Efficient Design and Architecture

Sustainable design starts at the building level, incorporating eco friendly interior design practices to minimize environmental impact.

Passive Design: Utilize architectural techniques that naturally regulate the building’s temperature, such as proper insulation, thermal mass, and strategic placement of windows for natural ventilation and light.

Renewable Energy Systems: Install systems like solar panels or geothermal heating and cooling to reduce dependence on non-renewable energy sources. Integrating these systems can help reduce the impact of buildings on the world's greenhouse gas emissions.

Energy-Efficient Appliances: Choose appliances with high energy ratings to minimize electricity consumption and operational costs.

Retrofitting for Sustainability

Modernizing existing structures can significantly reduce the need for new construction and the associated environmental impact.

Energy Upgrades: Update lighting systems to LEDs, improve insulation, and install energy-efficient windows to enhance the building’s energy performance.

Structural Improvements: Reinforce or replace outdated systems and materials with sustainable alternatives to extend the building’s lifespan.

Installing Energy-Wise Lighting and Water-Saving Fixtures

These installations can dramatically cut down on resource use.

Lighting: Maximize the use of natural light during the day and use energy-efficient LED fixtures for artificial lighting. Incorporate smart lighting controls to minimize waste.

Water Efficiency: Install low-flow showerheads, faucets, and dual-flush toilets to reduce water consumption. Consider systems that recycle greywater for non-potable uses.

Reducing Waste and Embracing Reuse

Reclaiming or Recycling Furnishings and Materials

Before buying new, consider what you can reclaim or recycle, especially focusing on natural materials.

Second-Hand Treasures: Vintage and reclaimed furniture not only reduce waste but add character and uniqueness to interiors.

Recycled Materials: Look for furnishings and fixtures made from recycled content, such as rugs made from recycled plastic or tiles from reclaimed glass.

Thinking Differently About Decor and Waste Reduction

1. Adopt a mindful approach to decorating that focuses on longevity and minimalism.

Seasonless Style: Choose decor that transcends trends and seasons, focusing on timeless pieces that won’t need frequent replacement.

Living Decor: Incorporate plants into your designs. They not only enhance aesthetics but also improve air quality and provide a natural, ever-evolving element to the space.

Creating a Sustainable Interior Design Plan

Setting Goals and Priorities for Your Sustainable Interior Design Project

Clearly defining your objectives is crucial for a successful project.

Identify Key Areas: Focus on areas where sustainability will have the most impact, such as energy use, material sourcing, or waste reduction.

Set Measurable Goals: Define specific, measurable targets for sustainability, such as achieving a certain level of energy efficiency or sourcing a percentage of materials locally. It is also important to set goals that incorporate sustainability principles into the design plan, ensuring the use of eco-friendly materials and efficient energy solutions.

Creating a Plan for Sustainable Interior Design Implementation

A structured plan ensures smooth execution.

Timeline and Budget: Develop a realistic timeline and budget that reflects your sustainability goals. Factor in the potential long-term savings from energy-efficient and durable choices.

Stakeholder Involvement: Engage all relevant stakeholders, from designers to facility managers, ensuring everyone understands and supports the sustainability objectives.

Conclusion

Incorporating sustainability into interior design is not just an ethical choice but a strategic decision that enhances the quality, efficiency, and marketability of spaces.

Whether you’re developing multi-family residences, renovating hotel interiors, or upgrading commercial office spaces, these top tips will guide you towards creating interiors that are both beautiful and sustainable.

For more insights and guidance on sustainable design, visit our website Biofilico or contact our team of expert sustainable designers.

Mastering Sustainable Restaurant Interior Design: A Guide to Creating Eco-Friendly Food & Beverage Spaces

sustainable restaurant interior concept (a.i. generated image by biofilico)

The Importance of Sustainable Restaurant Design

As consumers become increasingly eco-conscious, food and beverage businesses are under growing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. This shift resonates particularly with environmentally conscious diners, a growing segment that values nature-based, planet-friendly initiatives and fosters loyalty towards those establishments that prioritize sustainability.

Sustainable restaurant design plays a pivotal role in this movement, serving as a cornerstone for reducing the industry’s carbon impact and promoting eco-friendliness. This guide delves into the importance of sustainable design in food and beverage spaces, offering insights into materials, energy efficiency, and future trends.

Reducing Carbon Footprint and Environmental Impact

Restaurants, traditionally, have significant environmental impacts due to their high energy consumption, waste production, and resource use. Adopting sustainable design practices can drastically reduce these impacts and contribute to a more sustainable future for the industry.

1. Minimizing Carbon impact: Sustainable design starts with choosing materials and processes that minimize carbon emissions. This can include everything from sourcing local materials, which reduces transportation emissions, to incorporating energy-efficient appliances that cut down on energy use. Additionally, selecting materials free of harmful chemicals can further reduce environmental impact. By focusing on these elements, restaurants can significantly lower their carbon footprint, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.

2. Waste Reduction: Designing spaces that prioritize waste reduction is crucial. This can be achieved through several strategies, such as incorporating reusable or recyclable materials, implementing waste sorting systems, and designing for durability to avoid frequent replacements. Restaurants can also reduce food waste by designing kitchens that support efficient storage and preparation processes.

3. Promoting Eco-Friendliness: Eco-friendly design goes beyond reducing direct impacts; it also involves creating spaces that inspire and facilitate sustainable behavior among staff and customers. This can include providing recycling stations, using compostable or biodegradable materials, and educating patrons about the restaurant’s sustainable practices.

4. Sustainability as a Key Term: In the restaurant industry, sustainability encompasses a broad range of practices aimed at reducing environmental impact, enhancing social responsibility, and promoting economic viability. It includes everything from energy and water efficiency to waste management, ethical sourcing, and community engagement. By integrating sustainability into the core of restaurant design, businesses can meet the growing demand for responsible dining options and set themselves apart in a competitive market.

Sustainable Materials in Interior Design

The choice of materials is a fundamental aspect of sustainable design in restaurants. Opting for locally-sourced and recycled materials not only supports environmental goals but also adds character and authenticity to restaurant spaces. An interior architect plays a crucial role in selecting these sustainable materials and integrating them into the design.

Locally-Sourced and Recycled Materials in interior design

1. Reducing Transportation Emissions: Using locally-sourced materials for furniture and finishes helps to minimize the carbon emissions associated with transportation. This practice supports local economies and reduces the environmental footprint of the design process. For example, sourcing stone, wood, or textiles from local suppliers cuts down on the energy needed to transport these goods over long distances.

2. Supporting Local Artisans and Businesses: Integrating locally-made furniture and decor fosters a sense of community and authenticity within the restaurant. It connects the establishment to its locale, providing a unique identity that resonates with customers. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also enriches the dining experience by showcasing local craftsmanship and culture.

3. Recycled and Repurposed Materials: Incorporating recycled and repurposed materials is another effective way to enhance sustainability. Reclaimed wood, recycled metals, and upcycled furnishings reduce waste and resource consumption. These materials often carry a story or history, adding a unique and meaningful layer to the restaurant’s design narrative.

4. Emphasizing Sustainability in Design: Sustainable restaurant design emphasizes the importance of selecting materials that are not only eco-friendly but also aesthetically pleasing and functional. Designers can explore innovative materials like bamboo, cork, or recycled glass, which offer durability and a distinct look. These choices reflect a commitment to sustainability and appeal to environmentally-conscious consumers.

Energy-Efficient Lighting and Appliances in interior design

Energy efficiency is a critical component of sustainable restaurant design. By incorporating smart lighting systems, energy-efficient appliances, and maximizing natural light, restaurants can significantly reduce their energy consumption and operating costs.

1. Smart Lighting Systems: Smart lighting systems allow for precise control over lighting levels, reducing energy usage and enhancing the dining experience. These systems can be programmed to adjust lighting based on time of day or occupancy, ensuring that lights are only used when needed. LED lighting, known for its long lifespan and low energy consumption, is a popular choice for sustainable restaurants.

2. Energy-Efficient Appliances: Investing in energy-efficient kitchen equipment can dramatically cut energy usage. Look for appliances with Energy Star ratings or other certifications that indicate superior energy performance. High-efficiency ovens, refrigerators, and dishwashers not only reduce energy bills but also lessen the restaurant's overall environmental impact.

3. Incorporating Natural Light: Maximizing natural light in restaurant design reduces the need for artificial lighting and creates a welcoming, vibrant atmosphere. Large windows, skylights, and strategically placed mirrors can enhance natural light penetration. This not only saves energy but also improves the overall dining experience by creating a connection with the outdoors.

sustainable restaurant interior concept (a.i. generated image by biofilico)

Interior Design for Sustainability

Creating a sustainable restaurant involves thoughtful design choices that promote flexibility, efficient use of space, and integration of natural elements. These strategies not only enhance functionality but also align with sustainable principles.

Utilizing a restorative design framework can further this goal by incorporating circular economy principles to minimize waste and pollution, lower carbon footprint, and ensure that all elements can be reused, donated, or recycled at the end of their lifecycle.

Space Planning and Flexibility

1. Multi-Purpose Furniture: Using multi-purpose furniture is a smart way to maximize space and minimize waste. Pieces like extendable tables, stackable chairs, or modular seating can adapt to different needs and configurations. This flexibility is especially valuable in dynamic environments like restaurants, where space requirements can change frequently.

2. Collapsible Seating and Movable Partitions: Collapsible seating and movable partitions allow restaurants to reconfigure their layout to accommodate different group sizes and events. This adaptability reduces the need for extensive renovations or additional furniture, saving resources and maintaining a streamlined space.

3. Efficient Space Planning: Efficient space planning is key to creating functional and sustainable restaurant interiors. This involves optimizing the layout to ensure smooth traffic flow, adequate storage, and comfortable dining areas. Efficient use of space reduces the need for excessive heating, cooling, and lighting, contributing to overall energy savings.

Green Walls and Vertical Gardens as part of a Biophilia interior design

1. Benefits of Green Walls: Green walls, or vertical gardens, bring numerous benefits to restaurant interiors. They enhance air quality by absorbing pollutants and releasing oxygen, provide natural insulation, and create a calming, aesthetically pleasing environment. These living installations also support biodiversity and can be used to grow herbs or edible plants, integrating sustainability into the culinary experience.

2. Interior Design with Vertical Gardens: Integrating vertical gardens into restaurant design involves selecting appropriate plants and ensuring adequate lighting and irrigation. They can be used as focal points, room dividers, or to soften architectural features. By bringing nature indoors, vertical gardens enhance the ambiance and underscore the restaurant’s commitment to sustainability.

Measuring and Certifying Sustainability

To truly commit to sustainability, restaurants can pursue certifications that recognize and validate their efforts. Certifications like the Sustainable Restaurant Association (SRA) standard provide a framework for measuring and improving sustainability practices.

1. SRA Certification: The Sustainable Restaurant Association offers a comprehensive certification that assesses restaurants on various sustainability criteria, including sourcing, society, and environment. Achieving SRA certification signals to customers and stakeholders that the restaurant is dedicated to sustainable practices and is actively working to minimize its environmental impact.

2. Other Sustainability Certifications: In addition to the SRA, there are other certifications that restaurants can pursue, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) or Green Key. These certifications provide guidelines for energy efficiency, waste management, and sustainable building practices, helping restaurants to systematically improve their sustainability performance.

3. Benefits of Certification: Certification not only provides a credible endorsement of a restaurant’s sustainability efforts but also offers practical benefits. It can enhance reputation, attract eco-conscious customers, and often lead to operational savings through more efficient practices. Certification processes also provide valuable insights and benchmarks, guiding continuous improvement in sustainability.

The Future of Sustainable Interior Design in Restaurants

The shift towards sustainable restaurant design is more than just a response to current consumer preferences; it represents a fundamental evolution in the industry.

As sustainability becomes increasingly integral to business success and environmental responsibility, the future of restaurant design will continue to innovate and expand in exciting ways.

1. Technological Advancements: The integration of advanced technologies will play a crucial role in the future of sustainable interior design for restaurants, bars and cafes. Innovations like smart building systems, energy-efficient HVAC systems, and advanced water-saving technologies will enable restaurants to optimize resource use and reduce their environmental impact. Additionally, the use of solar panels as a renewable energy source can decrease reliance on non-renewable energy grids, integrating creatively into roofing designs or patio structures to provide shade while generating clean energy.

2. Biophilic Design: Biophilic interior design, which seeks to connect people with nature, will become more prevalent in sustainable restaurant interiors. Incorporating natural elements, like plants, water features, and natural materials, not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes health and well-being. As research continues to highlight the benefits of biophilic design, its adoption in restaurants is likely to grow.

3. Circular Economy Principles: Embracing circular economy principles, which focus on reducing waste and making the most of resources, will become a cornerstone of sustainable restaurant design. This involves designing spaces and processes that prioritize reuse, recycling, and regeneration. Restaurants might incorporate furniture made from recycled materials, design kitchens that minimize food waste, and source ingredients from regenerative agriculture practices.

4. Community and Social Impact: Future sustainable restaurant design will increasingly focus on community and social impact. This includes supporting local suppliers, engaging with community initiatives, and creating inclusive and accessible spaces. The concept of a restorative restaurant, which aims to create places that give more than they take and integrate sustainability into design, will benefit communities by enhancing social sustainability and building stronger, more loyal customer relationships.

5. Adaptable and Resilient Design: Designing for adaptability and resilience will be crucial as restaurants face evolving challenges, from climate change to shifting consumer behaviors. This includes creating spaces that can easily adapt to different uses, incorporating materials and technologies that withstand environmental stresses, and designing with long-term sustainability in mind.

In conclusion, mastering sustainable restaurant design is a multifaceted endeavor that requires careful consideration of materials, energy use, space planning, and community impact.

By embracing these principles, restaurants can not only reduce their environmental footprint but also create inviting, functional, and resilient spaces that meet the demands of today’s eco-conscious consumers.

The future of the restaurant industry is undoubtedly green, and those who lead the way in sustainable design will be well-positioned to thrive in this evolving landscape.

Top Tips for Sustainable Restaurant Design and Operations

sustainable restaurant interior concept (a.i. generated image by biofilico)

In the rapidly evolving landscape of hospitality, sustainability is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Sustainable solutions are essential for pushing sustainability to the forefront in restaurant design and promoting new sustainable approaches to improve the welfare of people and the natural world.

Sustainable restaurant design and operations not only reduce environmental impact but also enhance customer experience, improve indoor environmental quality, and promote the well-being of both staff and guests.

This guide explores key principles and practices for integrating sustainability into restaurant design and operations, offering actionable tips to create greener, more efficient dining spaces.

We come at this from the perspective of Food and Beverage (F&B) being an integral part of the hospitality industry and in many cases, a central cog in the ecosystem of a hotel operation. There is in other words considerable crossover between implementing a sustainability plan for a restaurant and a entire hotel operation.

Sustainable Design Principles

Embracing Energy Efficiency and Indoor Environmental Quality

Sustainable design is about more than just reducing energy consumption; it encompasses a holistic approach that balances cost-effectiveness, environmental stewardship, societal impact, and human well-being.

For restaurants, this means creating productive environments that are energy-efficient, reduce waste, and prioritize the health and productivity of their occupants.

Energy Efficiency:

• Implementing energy-efficient systems is critical. LED lighting, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and energy-saving kitchen appliances significantly reduce energy consumption.

• Utilizing natural light through large windows or skylights can diminish the need for artificial lighting during the day, cutting down on electricity usage and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.

Indoor Environmental Quality:

• The quality of the indoor environment, including air quality, lighting, and acoustics, profoundly affects the health and comfort of staff and patrons. Integrating plants and using materials with low VOCs (volatile organic compounds) can improve air quality.

• Thoughtful design should consider acoustics to minimize noise levels and enhance the dining experience, contributing to a more enjoyable and relaxing environment.

Material Selection and Sourcing

The materials chosen for constructing and furnishing a restaurant play a crucial role in its sustainability. Opting for environmentally preferable products can significantly reduce environmental impact and promote community engagement. Choosing locally-sourced materials also helps in reducing carbon emissions associated with transportation.

Locally-Sourced and Salvaged Materials:

• Using locally-sourced materials reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation and supports local economies. This can include everything from building materials to furniture and décor.

• Salvaged and repurposed materials, such as reclaimed wood or recycled materials, not only reduce waste but also add unique character and story to the restaurant’s design.

Supporting Local Artisans:

• Collaborating with local artisans and craftsmen for custom furniture and fixtures can enhance the restaurant’s authenticity and contribute to the local economy. This approach fosters a sense of community and uniqueness, aligning with the growing consumer demand for locally-sourced and sustainable products.

Energy and Environmental Design

Strategies for Reducing Energy Consumption

Energy consumption is a significant operational cost for restaurants and a primary focus for sustainability efforts. Implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices can lead to substantial savings and environmental benefits.

Energy-Efficient Lighting and Appliances:

• Switching to LED lighting is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce energy usage. LEDs consume less energy, have a longer lifespan, and provide superior lighting quality compared to traditional bulbs.

• Selecting kitchen appliances and HVAC systems with high energy ratings ensures optimal performance with minimal energy consumption. Investing in energy-efficient equipment pays off in the long run through reduced utility bills and maintenance costs.

Natural Light and Smart Lighting Systems:

• Designing spaces to maximize natural light reduces the dependence on artificial lighting. Large windows, skylights, and glass doors can illuminate the dining area naturally, creating a pleasant ambiance.

• Smart lighting systems that adjust based on occupancy and time of day can further optimize energy usage. These systems automatically dim or turn off lights when areas are not in use, ensuring efficient energy management.

Renewable Energy Sources:

• Incorporating renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines, can significantly decrease a restaurant's reliance on non-renewable energy grids. Solar panels on rooftops or integrated into building designs can provide a substantial portion of a restaurant's electricity needs.

Operational and Maintenance Practices

Waste Reduction and Management

Effective waste management is critical for sustainable restaurant operations. Designing systems and practices that minimize waste can greatly reduce a restaurant's environmental footprint.

Composting and Recycling Stations:

• Setting up designated areas for sorting and disposing of organic waste, plastics, and other recyclables encourages staff and patrons to participate in waste reduction efforts.

• Composting organic waste can convert kitchen scraps into valuable fertilizer for onsite gardens or local farms, reducing landfill contributions and supporting local agriculture.

Open Kitchen Layouts:

• Open kitchen designs can help reduce food wastage by promoting transparency and encouraging efficient use of ingredients. This layout also enhances the dining experience by allowing guests to see their meals being prepared, creating a connection between the kitchen and the dining area.

Water Conservation and Sustainable Plumbing

Water conservation is another vital aspect of sustainable restaurant design. Implementing efficient plumbing systems and practices can greatly reduce water consumption and operational costs.

Low-Flow Fixtures and Water-Efficient Appliances:

• Installing low-flow faucets and water-efficient dishwashers can drastically cut water usage without compromising performance. These fixtures maintain effective water pressure while using less water per minute.

• Incorporating touchless or sensor-activated faucets reduces water waste by ensuring that water flows only when needed.

Rainwater Harvesting:

• Collecting and utilizing rainwater for non-potable uses, such as irrigation or cleaning, is an innovative way to conserve water. Rainwater harvesting systems can be integrated into the building's design, providing a sustainable water source that reduces dependency on municipal water supplies.

sustainable restaurant interior concept (a.i. generated image by biofilico)

Innovative Design Elements

Green Walls and Living Walls

Integrating greenery into restaurant design not only enhances aesthetics but also contributes to improved air quality and a unique dining atmosphere. Green walls and living walls further improve building performance by enhancing indoor air quality.

Vertical Gardens and Living Walls:

• Green walls or vertical gardens bring nature into the dining space, creating a calming and visually appealing environment. These installations can also serve as functional elements, providing fresh herbs or produce for the kitchen.

• By absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, plants in vertical gardens help improve indoor air quality, creating a healthier space for both staff and guests.

Natural Light and Ventilation

Maximizing natural light and ventilation is crucial in sustainable design, reducing the need for artificial lighting and mechanical climate control systems.

Maximizing Daylight:

• Utilizing large windows, glass doors, and skylights allows natural light to permeate the space, reducing the need for artificial lighting and enhancing the dining experience.

• Light-colored interiors and reflective surfaces can further amplify natural light, making spaces feel brighter and more open.

Natural Ventilation:

• Incorporating operable windows and strategically placed vents can enhance natural ventilation, reducing the need for mechanical heating and cooling systems. Natural airflow helps maintain a comfortable indoor climate and improves air quality.

Measuring Sustainability

Exploring the Sustainable Restaurant Association (SRA) and Its Sustainability Standards

The Sustainable Restaurant Association (SRA) is at the forefront of this transformation, setting benchmarks and providing guidance for food and beverage businesses committed to sustainability.

The Sustainable Restaurant Association (SRA): An Overview

Founded in 2010, the SRA is a non-profit organization based in the UK, dedicated to accelerating the transition to a sustainable food system. Its mission is to empower food service businesses to operate more sustainably and to inspire consumers to make sustainable dining choices.

With over a decade of experience, the SRA has built a robust platform that connects like-minded businesses and drives industry-wide change through education, evaluation, and advocacy.

The SRA Sustainability Framework

At the core of the SRA's mission is its rigorous sustainability framework, designed to evaluate and improve the environmental, social, and economic impacts of food and beverage businesses.

The framework encompasses three key pillars: Sourcing, Society, and Environment. Each pillar is subdivided into specific criteria that provide a detailed and holistic approach to sustainability.

1. Sourcing

   • Sustainable Sourcing: This criterion focuses on the origin of food and beverages. Businesses are assessed on their commitment to sourcing local, seasonal, and ethically produced ingredients. The SRA encourages the use of certified sustainable products, such as those with organic, Fair Trade, or Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) labels.

   • Animal Welfare: High standards of animal welfare are imperative. The SRA evaluates whether businesses source products from suppliers that ensure humane treatment of animals throughout their lifecycle.

2. Society

   • Community Engagement: The SRA values businesses that contribute positively to their local communities. This can include supporting local charities, providing employment opportunities, and engaging in community events.

   • Workplace Culture: The well-being of staff is another critical area. The SRA assesses how businesses treat their employees, looking at fair wages, training opportunities, and overall workplace satisfaction.

3. Environment

   • Energy Efficiency: Efficient use of energy is essential for reducing carbon footprints. The SRA evaluates businesses on their energy management practices, including the use of renewable energy sources and energy-efficient equipment.

   • Waste Management: Minimizing waste is crucial for sustainability. The SRA assesses how effectively businesses reduce, reuse, and recycle waste, and their efforts to combat food waste.

   • Water Use: Responsible water management is another focus. Businesses are evaluated on their practices to conserve water and prevent pollution.

The SRA Rating System

The SRA's evaluation process culminates in a comprehensive rating system, providing businesses with a clear sustainability score. The ratings are categorized into One Star, Two Star, and Three Star, based on the level of commitment and achievement in sustainability practices.

This transparent rating system not only helps businesses benchmark their performance but also guides consumers in making informed dining choices.

• One Star: Indicates a good level of sustainability practices with foundational steps in place.

• Two Star: Reflects advanced sustainability efforts and a significant positive impact.

• Three Star: Represents exceptional commitment and leadership in sustainability, setting a gold standard for the industry.

Driving Change in the Food and Beverage Industry

The SRA's impact extends beyond individual businesses. By setting clear standards and fostering a community of sustainability-minded professionals, the SRA is driving a broader shift in the food and beverage industry.

It encourages collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement, all while raising awareness about the importance of sustainable practices.

For food and beverage businesses looking to enhance their sustainability credentials, the SRA offers not only a pathway to certification but also a valuable support network and resources.

By aligning with the SRA's standards, businesses can contribute to a more sustainable future, attract conscientious customers, and play a part in the global movement towards environmental and social responsibility.

In summary, the Sustainable Restaurant Association stands as a beacon for sustainability in the food and beverage sector.

Its comprehensive framework and rating system empower businesses to achieve and maintain high standards of sustainability, ensuring that they are well-positioned to meet the growing demand for responsible dining options.

As sustainability becomes increasingly central to the industry's future, the SRA's role in guiding and recognizing sustainable practices will only become more critical.

Conclusion

Embracing sustainable design and operational practices in restaurants is not just about reducing environmental impact but also about creating healthier, more efficient, and economically viable spaces.

From energy-efficient systems and sustainable material selection to innovative design elements like green walls and natural ventilation, there are numerous ways to integrate sustainability into restaurant design.

For hospitality businesses and real estate developers, adopting these practices aligns with the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly operations and can significantly enhance the appeal and success of their establishments.

By following the principles and tips outlined in this guide, restaurants can play a pivotal role in fostering a more sustainable future.

To learn more about how to integrate sustainable practices into your hospitality business or real estate development, explore our resources and expert insights at Biofilico. Together, we can build a greener, more sustainable world.

What are Serviced Apartments or Aparthotels and how are they engaging with sustainability and ESG?

native aparthotels

In the rapidly evolving landscape of hospitality, serviced apartments, also known as aparthotels, have emerged as a preferred choice for travelers seeking a blend of comfort, flexibility, and value.

As these accommodations grow in popularity, their engagement with sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles becomes increasingly significant. Climate change, as a critical aspect of environmental sustainability, impacts the earth and its people, emphasizing the need for urgent action.

This article explores what serviced apartments are, their benefits, types, and amenities, and how they are incorporating sustainable practices to meet the demands of conscientious travelers and stakeholders.

Definition and Benefits

What Are Serviced Apartments and how do they integrate sustainable development concepts?

Serviced apartments, or aparthotels, are fully furnished apartments available for short-term or long-term stays. They combine the convenience of hotel services with the comfort and space of a home, making them an attractive option for a variety of guests, including business travelers, families, and those seeking temporary accommodation during relocations or extended stays.

Key Characteristics:

• Flexibility: Guests can choose their length of stay, from a few nights to several months, with flexible terms that often include daily, weekly, or monthly rates.

• Amenities: They come equipped with home-like amenities, such as kitchens, laundry facilities, and living areas, providing a 'home-away-from-home' experience.

• Service Options: Many serviced apartments offer housekeeping, concierge, and maintenance services, enhancing convenience and comfort.

Benefits of Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments offer several advantages over traditional hotels, making them a compelling choice for many travelers.

1. Flexibility in Stay and Amenities: Unlike traditional hotels, which typically cater to shorter stays, serviced apartments can accommodate both short and long-term guests. This flexibility extends to the amenities provided, allowing guests to select the level of service that best suits their needs, from self-catering to full-service options.

2. Cost-Effectiveness: Serviced apartments often provide better value for money, especially for extended stays. The ability to cook meals and do laundry can significantly reduce travel expenses. Additionally, the cost per square foot is usually lower compared to traditional hotel rooms, offering more space at a comparable or lower price.

3. Space and Comfort: With separate living, sleeping, and dining areas, serviced apartments offer more space and a greater sense of comfort than typical hotel rooms. This setup is ideal for families, groups, or anyone needing more room to work, relax, or entertain.

Types of Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments come in various configurations to meet the diverse needs of travelers. The range typically includes studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments, each catering to different preferences and group sizes.

Studio Apartments

Studio apartments are compact, single-room units that integrate living, sleeping, and dining areas into one multifunctional space. They are perfect for solo travelers or couples seeking a cozy and efficient accommodation option.

One-Bedroom Apartments

One-bedroom apartments provide a separate bedroom and living area, offering more privacy and space than studio apartments. These are well-suited for individuals or couples who prefer a more spacious environment or need a dedicated workspace.

Two-Bedroom Apartments

Two-bedroom apartments cater to families, groups, or guests requiring additional space. They feature separate bedrooms and often multiple bathrooms, providing ample room for everyone to enjoy their stay comfortably.

Serviced Apartment Amenities

A defining feature of serviced apartments is the range of amenities they offer, designed to make stays convenient and enjoyable. These amenities typically include kitchen and laundry facilities, as well as recreational services.

Kitchen and Laundry Facilities

One of the main attractions of serviced apartments is the availability of fully equipped kitchens and laundry facilities, which enable guests to maintain their routines and lifestyles while traveling.

Fully Equipped Kitchens:

• Self-Catering: Guests can prepare their meals, catering to dietary preferences and saving on dining costs.

• Appliances: Kitchens typically include modern appliances such as refrigerators, stovetops, microwaves, and dishwashers, along with utensils and cookware.

Laundry Facilities:

• In-Unit Laundry: Many serviced apartments offer in-unit washing machines and dryers, allowing guests to manage their laundry conveniently.

• Shared Laundry Rooms: Some properties provide shared laundry facilities, which are still more convenient and cost-effective than outsourcing laundry services.

Recreational Facilities and Services

Serviced apartments often feature a range of recreational amenities to enhance the guest experience, making them an appealing choice for extended stays.

Entertainment and Connectivity:

• Free WiFi: High-speed internet access is typically included, supporting both leisure activities and work needs.

• Smart TVs and Entertainment Systems: Apartments may be equipped with smart TVs, sound systems, and streaming services for in-room entertainment.

Fitness and Recreation:

• Fitness Centers: Many properties include access to on-site fitness centers, helping guests maintain their exercise routines.

• Swimming Pools and Leisure Areas: Some serviced apartments feature swimming pools, lounge areas, and gardens, providing spaces for relaxation and recreation.

Sustainable Serviced Apartments

As sustainability becomes a priority for both travelers and the hospitality industry, serviced apartments are increasingly adopting eco-friendly practices.

These efforts not only reduce environmental impact but also align with the values of a growing segment of eco-conscious consumers. ESG and sustainability are closely related, as they both emphasize the interconnectedness and mutual influence between environmental, social, and governance factors and sustainable development.

An ESG framework is often used for reporting and evaluating sustainability-related disclosure of listed companies for investors.

ESG stands for environmental, social, and governance, comprising three main topic areas that companies are expected to report on.

Governance standards and responsibilities within a company, including executive pay, are crucial for assessing company leadership in the context of ESG criteria for potential investments.

Sustainable development is defined as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Incorporating and rewarding activities with positive effects on the environment and society is essential for ESG investing's impact on society and the environment.

Waste management programs in serviced apartments aim to reduce waste by minimizing the amount of materials used and lowering the overall amount of waste produced.

Governance practices also include shareholder rights, which are part of the ESG framework alongside environmental and social criteria.

Supply chain sustainability is important for ethical business practices, emphasizing labor standards, health and safety, and the environmental and human impacts of products.

Sustainable development aims to meet human development goals while enabling natural systems to provide the necessary resources.

Environmental Sustainability and Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimizing environmental impact are central goals for many serviced apartments engaging with sustainability.

1. Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy:

   • Energy-Efficient Systems: Implementing energy-efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, as well as using LED lighting, helps reduce energy consumption.

   • Renewable Energy Sources: Some properties invest in renewable energy sources, such as solar panels or wind turbines, to power their operations sustainably.

2. Waste Reduction and Recycling:

   • Waste Management Programs: Effective waste management programs, including recycling and composting, help minimize waste sent to landfills.

   • Single-Use Plastic Reduction: Many serviced apartments have initiatives to eliminate single-use plastics, offering alternatives like reusable or biodegradable options.

3. Water Conservation:

   • Water-Efficient Fixtures: Installing low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets reduces water usage without compromising guest comfort.

   • Greywater Recycling: Some properties employ greywater recycling systems to reuse water from showers and sinks for irrigation or flushing toilets.

Room2 Hammersmith aparthotel

Sustainable Interior Design

Sustainable interior design practices are integral to creating eco-friendly serviced apartments. These practices focus on using environmentally responsible materials and incorporating biophilic design elements that connect occupants with nature.

1. Eco-Friendly Materials:

   • Sustainable Sourcing: Using materials that are sustainably sourced, such as FSC-certified wood or recycled metal, reduces the environmental footprint of the building and its interiors.

   • Low VOC Products: Selecting paints, adhesives, and finishes with low volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions improves indoor air quality.

2. Biophilic Design:

   • Natural Elements: Incorporating natural elements like plants, natural light, and water features enhances the connection to nature and promotes well-being.

   • Indoor Green Spaces: Features such as green walls and indoor gardens bring greenery into the living space, contributing to a healthier and more relaxing environment.

3. Healthy Materials:

   • Non-Toxic Finishes: Using non-toxic finishes and materials prevents harmful chemicals from entering the indoor environment, ensuring the health and safety of guests.

   • Sustainable Furniture: Furniture made from recycled or sustainably sourced materials supports eco-friendly design principles and reduces waste.

Wellness Strategies in Aparthotels

Wellness is becoming a significant focus in serviced apartments, with properties incorporating features that promote health and well-being.

1. Fitness and Recreation Facilities:

   • On-Site Gyms: Many serviced apartments include fitness centers equipped with modern exercise equipment, encouraging guests to maintain their fitness routines.

   • Recreational Areas: Amenities such as swimming pools, yoga studios, and outdoor spaces provide opportunities for relaxation and physical activity.

2. Purified Water Systems:

   • Clean Drinking Water: Installing water purification systems ensures access to clean, safe drinking water, supporting guests' health and reducing the need for bottled water.

   • Filtered Showers: Some properties offer filtered showerheads to remove chlorine and other contaminants, enhancing the bathing experience and promoting skin health.

3. Enhanced Sleep Environments:

   • Quality Bedding: Providing high-quality mattresses and linens promotes restful sleep, which is essential for overall well-being.

   • Soundproofing: Effective soundproofing in rooms minimizes noise pollution, creating a tranquil environment conducive to relaxation and sleep.

Choosing a Serviced Apartment

When selecting a serviced apartment, several factors should be considered to ensure a comfortable and sustainable stay. These include location, accessibility, and the property's commitment to social and environmental responsibility.

Location and Accessibility

1. Proximity to Transportation and Attractions:

   • Public Transportation: Choosing a serviced apartment close to public transportation options reduces reliance on private vehicles and supports sustainable travel.

   • Local Attractions: Proximity to business centers, cultural sites, and recreational areas enhances convenience and enjoyment for guests.

2. Accessibility Features:

   • Disability Access: Properties with features such as ramps, wide doorways, and accessible bathrooms accommodate guests with disabilities, promoting inclusivity.

   • Elderly-Friendly Design: Design elements like handrails, non-slip surfaces, and easy-to-navigate layouts ensure safety and comfort for older guests.

Considering Future Generations and Local Communities

1. Social Equity and Community Support:

   • Local Sourcing: Prioritizing local suppliers and businesses supports the community and reduces transportation-related emissions.

   • Community Engagement: Participating in local initiatives and offering employment opportunities to local residents fosters positive community relationships.

2. Embracing ESG Factors:

   • Environmental Responsibility: Commitment to environmental stewardship includes reducing carbon emissions, minimizing waste, and conserving resources.

   • Social Responsibility: Addressing social factors involves ensuring fair treatment of employees, supporting local communities, and providing safe and inclusive environments for guests.

   • Governance Practices: Good governance includes transparency in operations, ethical business practices, and accountability in decision-making processes.

3. Positive Impact on Environment and Society:

   • Sustainable Practices: Engaging in sustainable practices not only reduces the environmental footprint but also meets the expectations of eco-conscious travelers.

   • Long-Term Vision: Emphasizing long-term sustainability over short-term gains demonstrates a commitment to the well-being of future generations and the planet.

Beyond Aparthotels: Leading the Way in Sustainable and ESG-Focused Hospitality

In the competitive landscape of serviced apartments and aparthotels, Beyond Aparthotels stands out as a pioneer in integrating sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles into its operations.

Based in the UK, this brand has made a significant impact by redefining luxury hospitality through a commitment to eco-friendly practices, social responsibility, and ethical governance.

Here’s a closer look at how Beyond Aparthotels is leading the way in sustainable and ESG-focused hospitality.

Commitment to Sustainability

1. Eco-Friendly Design and Construction: Beyond Aparthotels takes sustainability seriously from the ground up. Their properties are designed with eco-friendly architecture that incorporates energy-efficient systems, sustainable building materials, and innovative technologies to minimize environmental impact. The use of reclaimed wood, recycled metal, and low-VOC finishes not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also ensures that the interiors are free from harmful chemicals, contributing to healthier living spaces.

2. Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency: A key feature of Beyond Aparthotels is their investment in renewable energy sources. Many of their properties are equipped with solar panels and energy-efficient HVAC systems, significantly reducing their carbon footprint. Smart energy management systems are implemented to optimize energy usage, and LED lighting is standard throughout their buildings, ensuring lower energy consumption without compromising on quality.

3. Waste Reduction and Recycling Programs: Beyond Aparthotels is dedicated to minimizing waste through comprehensive recycling programs and waste reduction strategies. Guests are encouraged to participate in these initiatives, with clearly marked recycling bins and informative guides on sustainable practices. The brand also actively works to reduce single-use plastics by providing alternatives such as reusable containers and biodegradable packaging for toiletries and amenities.

ESG: A Holistic Approach to Hospitality

1. Social Responsibility and Community Engagement: At the heart of Beyond Aparthotels’ ESG strategy is a commitment to social responsibility. The brand supports local communities by sourcing goods and services from local suppliers, fostering economic growth and reducing transportation-related emissions. They also engage in community outreach programs, offering employment opportunities to local residents and partnering with charities to support social causes.

2. Promoting Inclusivity and Diversity: Beyond Aparthotels champions inclusivity and diversity within their workforce and in their services. They ensure that their properties are accessible to guests with disabilities, incorporating features such as ramps, wide doorways, and accessible bathrooms. Their hiring practices emphasize diversity, and they provide training programs to support the development of their employees, promoting a culture of equality and respect.

3. Ethical Governance and Transparency: Transparency and ethical governance are foundational to Beyond Aparthotels’ operations. The brand adheres to high standards of corporate governance, ensuring that their business practices are fair, accountable, and aligned with their sustainability and social goals. Regular audits and sustainability reporting are conducted to maintain transparency and demonstrate their commitment to responsible business practices.

Enhancing Guest Experience with Sustainable and ESG Practices

1. Green Living Spaces: Beyond Aparthotels offers guests an immersive eco-friendly experience. Their apartments feature biophilic design elements such as green walls and indoor plants, creating a connection with nature and promoting well-being. Natural materials and sustainable furnishings contribute to a serene and comfortable living environment, aligning with the brand’s commitment to health and sustainability.

2. Wellness Amenities: Understanding the importance of wellness, Beyond Aparthotels provides amenities that enhance the physical and mental well-being of their guests. Fitness centers, yoga rooms, and purified water systems are standard in their properties, along with initiatives such as providing bikes for guests to encourage eco-friendly transportation and promote a healthy lifestyle.

3. Convenient Locations with Reduced Carbon Footprint: Strategically located near public transportation and major attractions, Beyond Aparthotels enables guests to explore their surroundings with ease while minimizing their carbon footprint. This thoughtful approach not only adds convenience for guests but also aligns with the brand’s commitment to reducing environmental impact.

Conclusion

Beyond Aparthotels exemplifies how luxury, sustainability, and social responsibility can coexist in the hospitality industry. Their unwavering dedication to eco-friendly practices, community support, and ethical governance sets a high standard for serviced apartments and aparthotels. By choosing to stay at Beyond Aparthotels, guests are not only enjoying premium accommodations but also contributing to a sustainable and socially responsible future.

Conclusion

Serviced apartments, or aparthotels, offer a unique blend of flexibility, comfort, and convenience, making them an attractive option for a wide range of travelers.

As the demand for sustainable and socially responsible accommodations grows, these properties are increasingly integrating sustainability and ESG principles into their operations.

By adopting eco-friendly practices, supporting local communities, and focusing on the well-being of their guests, serviced apartments are not only meeting the needs of today’s travelers but also contributing positively to the future of the hospitality industry.

Whether you are planning a short trip or an extended stay, choosing a serviced apartment that prioritizes sustainability and social responsibility can provide a fulfilling and impactful travel experience.

ESG and Sustainability initiatives in UK aparthotel brands

beyond aparthotels sustainable wellness UK

Seeking a sustainable stay without compromising on comfort? Aparthotel options offer the privacy and amenities of an apartment with the services of a hotel. Discover how UK aparthotels are championing eco-friendly practices that benefit both you and the planet.

Key Takeaways

• UK aparthotels are embracing ESG strategies by integrating sustainable architecture, renewable energy, and low-impact operations to balance profitability and positive societal impact while fostering sustainable wellness with non-toxic materials and health-centric amenities.

• Eco-friendly practices in modern aparthotels extend to energy-efficient designs and initiatives like double-insulated windows, using 100% renewable energy, and empowering guests to make sustainable choices during their stays to reduce ecological footprints.

• Aparthotels contribute to local community success by hiring local employees, partnering with independent suppliers, supporting charity efforts, and enhancing guests’ health with wellness amenities like gyms, yoga studios, and eco-friendly dining options.

ESG strategy in UK aparthotels - well beyond just hotel rooms

In the realm of UK aparthotels, the ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) strategy is not just a set of checkboxes but a comprehensive approach to managing risks and opportunities that could impact long-term shareholder interests and societal well-being. These pillars, deeply rooted in the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, guide aparthotels in setting annual measurable objectives that strive for a balance between profitability and positive impact.

The commitment to social responsibility, echoed through these initiatives, reflects a belief that ethical business practices and shareholder growth are parallel paths rather than divergent ones.

environmental sustainability in aparthotels - fa more than your average hotel room

Aparthotels are increasingly focusing on reducing their carbon footprint. Some ways they are doing this include:

• Integrating sustainable architecture, such as buildings fashioned from repurposed shipping containers

• Harnessing renewable energy through solar panels

• Using heat recovery systems to repurpose air conditioning excess into hot water systems

• Using low energy and LED lighting

These efforts help make these properties more eco-friendly and contribute to reducing their average room emissions of 12.53kg CO2e.

In a move that marries direct consumer action with environmental stewardship, aparthotels like those partnering with Trees For Cities, pledge to plant a tree for every time customers book direct through their websites, thus embedding sustainability into the very act of reservation.

Room2 Hometels sustainable aparthotels UK

sustainable wellness in aparthotel brands UK

Encapsulating the essence of sustainable wellness, aparthotel brands in the UK are pioneering spaces with non-toxic materials and health-centric amenities. Beyond Aparthotels, for example, has taken a stance to create healthy, intelligent, and low-impact hospitality environments that cater to both corporate and leisure guests. Their commitment to carbon neutrality, zero waste, and chemical-free operations ensures that guests enjoy low toxicity spaces, reducing the environmental impact beyond the communities they serve.

This holistic approach to wellness goes beyond the physical space, encompassing partnerships with companies like Enhabit to build energy-efficient apartments, and a procurement policy that favors eco suppliers, such as the interior design company with strong sustainable ethics.

A Home Away from Home - not just a comfortable bed

The allure of aparthotels lies in their ability to replicate the comfort and convenience of a home environment, with guest reviews frequently praising the clean, comfortable beds as a positive aspect of the stay. This makes them an ideal choice for extended stays and business travelers. With amenities that surpass those of an average hotel room, guests can enjoy all the comforts of home with the added benefit of hotel-grade services, such as fully equipped kitchens and air-conditioned rooms with independent temperature control.

Business travelers find the best deals at serviced apartments in the city centre, particularly valuing their great location with close proximity to client offices and the train station, which reduces commute times and enhances productivity during relocation or prolonged business engagements in this prime location.

Sustainable Stays: Eco-Friendly Practices in Modern Aparthotels

Stepping into a modern aparthotel, one finds a haven of eco-friendly practices that extend well beyond the surface aesthetics. Some of these practices include:

• Double-insulated windows

• Low energy appliances

• Efficient heating and cooling solutions

• Eco flow air systems

• Underfloor heating

• Sensor lighting

• Key card activated electricity supply

• A commitment to 100% renewable energy from sustainable providers

These practices demonstrate a strong push for energy efficiency and sustainability.

These measures, together with the diligent separation and recycling of waste, spotlight an industry that is not merely accommodating guests but is actively preserving the environment for future generations.

ESG in aparthotel brands UK

Building a Greener Future - vicinity to a train station helps but that's not enough!

The blueprint for building a greener future is manifest in the sustainable interiors and eco-conscious designs of UK aparthotels. From refurbished spaces that give new life to recycled materials to energy-efficient lighting that brightens rooms with a reduced carbon footprint, these properties are tangible examples of sustainability in action.

The pursuit of environmental compliance is more than a trend, with properties like the Bankside aparthotel achieving an ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating, underscoring a commitment to environmental, social, and economic sustainability.

With features such as energy use control, support for electric vehicles, and the sourcing of 100% renewable electricity, aparthotels are anchoring their operations in practices that benefit not just today’s traveler but tomorrow’s world.

Conscious Choices for Guests

Aparthotels empower guests to make conscious, eco-friendly choices throughout their stay. From the moment they step into their hotel rooms, visitors are surrounded by sustainable amenities like a comfortable bed with pillows filled with recycled material and biodegradable coffee capsules.

The integration of green energy sources for everyday use, from charging devices to powering entertainment systems, reflects a commitment to responsible consumption and a reduced ecological footprint.

This emphasis on sustainability extends to local exploration, with aparthotels providing information on nearby attractions within walking distance, encouraging guests to enjoy the area’s offerings while minimizing their carbon emissions.

Local Love: Aparthotels Supporting Communities and Economies

The influence of aparthotels stretches beyond their immediate premises, reaching into the heart of the communities they inhabit. By hiring local employees, aparthotels help to keep wealth circulating within the community, bolstering the local economy.

Partnerships with independent suppliers and active engagement with local businesses further solidify the role of aparthotels as economic catalysts, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits both the properties and the regions they serve.

Boosting the Local Scene

Aparthotels often become cultural hotspots by fostering collaborations that boost the local scene. Initiatives such as pop-up bakeries or coffee shops in the lobby not only provide guests with unique experiences but also contribute to a thriving local commerce. Collaborations with local artisans, craftsmen, and designers enable aparthotels to offer authentic local experiences, from art classes to bespoke products that showcase the community’s talent.

By actively promoting local businesses on their platforms, aparthotels not only drive customer engagement but also play a key role in the economic prosperity of local vendors and service providers.

aparthotels UK sustainability ESG green building

Community and Charity Partnerships

The commitment of aparthotels to the community is further exemplified by their involvement in charity partnerships. Engaging in activities that range from financial contributions to encouraging employee volunteering and fundraising, aparthotels demonstrate their dedication to societal well-being.

By supporting local sports teams, planting trees, and hosting events for local business groups, aparthotels forge deep connections with the community, reinforcing their brand reputation and trust within the local regions.

Health and Wellness Amenities: Prioritizing Your Wellbeing

Prioritizing the health and well-being of their guests, aparthotels offer a diverse array of wellness services. From massages to tailored therapies, these establishments are dedicated to providing a holistic experience that caters to physical and mental rejuvenation. Beyond Aparthotels, in particular, has set a benchmark by providing spaces that nurture relaxation, nourishment, and physical fitness, with facilities such as:

• gyms

• yoga studios

• swimming pools

• spa and wellness centers

These facilities, including extra beds and wi fi, enhance the wellness quotient of the stay.

Fitness and Relaxation Facilities

For guests keen on maintaining their fitness regimens, aparthotels offer the convenience of on-site gym and fitness centers, ensuring that travel does not disrupt their exercise routines. Beyond the gym, swimming pools and communal areas serve as serene spaces where guests can relax and unwind, providing the perfect antidote to the day’s stresses.

Nourishing Body and Mind

Aparthotels extend their commitment to well-being through:

• Eco-friendly and health-conscious dining options that cater to all dietary needs

• The use of chemical-free cleaning processes for towels and bedding

• The provision of organic product options

These contribute to a low-toxicity living environment that supports the health of guests.

Summary

The journey through the world of UK aparthotels reveals a sector that is not only adapting to the demands of modern travel but is pioneering the path to sustainability. From their ESG strategies aligned with global objectives to the embrace of local community engagement, these properties exemplify a commitment to a future where hospitality and environmental stewardship go hand in hand. As guests continue to seek out accommodations that align with their values, UK aparthotels stand as beacons of sustainable luxury, offering experiences that enrich both the traveler and the world they explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do aparthotels support local economies?

Aparthotels support local economies by hiring local employees, engaging with independent suppliers, and collaborating with local businesses, artisans, and designers. This boosts the local economy and creates a sense of community.

What are the key environmental initiatives undertaken by UK aparthotels?

UK aparthotels have implemented key environmental initiatives such as energy-efficient design, waste management, renewable energy use, and eco-friendly practices like recycling and water consumption reduction. This reflects their commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Can staying at an aparthotel contribute to sustainability?

Staying at an aparthotel can contribute to sustainability by integrating practices such as the use of low energy appliances, renewable energy, and promoting local attractions within walking distance. It's a great way to support eco-friendly accommodations during your travels.

How do aparthotels ensure the wellness of their guests?

Aparthotels ensure the wellness of their guests by providing massages, tailored therapies, fitness facilities, eco-friendly dining options, and chemical-free cleaning processes. This helps guests maintain a healthy and comfortable stay.

What makes aparthotels a good choice for extended stays and business travelers?

Aparthotels are a great choice for extended stays and business travelers because they offer a comfortable, home-like environment with fully equipped kitchens and convenient proximity to client offices or business centers, enhancing productivity and convenience.

How Cruises are Shifting Towards Sustainability and Wellness

Cruises have become a popular mode of travel, and the industry is flourishing. But while cruise travel is in high demand, the pressure to be more climate-conscious is on, and cruise companies are feeling it more than ever.

Cruises are notorious for being environmentally impactful; research from the University of Exeter notes that the emissions from cruises equal that of 12,000 cars.

As such, many cruise lines are making changes to pivot toward sustainability to minimise their carbon footprint and environmental impact.

Whether that’s through reconfiguring fuel, phasing out single-use plastics, or incorporating biophilic design into the ships. Here’s how some cruises are shifting towards sustainability and wellness:

Celebrity Cruises

celebrity edge rooftop garden

Celebrity Cruises aspires to achieve the highest possible standards of environmental and community stewardship, making sustainability a priority in sailing. Key issues they aim to tackle include emissions reduction, waste, water, and sustainable sourcing. The cruise line also plans to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

The commitment to preserving nature and fostering community is showcased visually through the use of biophilic design in the ships. As explained in our “An Introduction to Biophilic Design – Nature, Wellbeing and Sustainability” post, biophilic design aims to reunite indoor and outdoor worlds through the use of natural materials, forms, textures, colours, patterns, light, and more.

Their Celebrity Beyond ship does just that by using elegant biophilic interiors in the ship’s muti-purpose indoor space, Eden. The rooftop gardens featured on multiple ships encourage community and connection with nature, fostering wellness and a focus on nature’s healing powers.

Explora Journeys

explora journeys

Explora Journeys specialises in creating an “Ocean State of Mind” where passengers can experience a connection with nature and the sea while curating a wellness-centred onboard experience.

The concept of ocean wellness ties into that goal of curating a connection with the natural world. As such, fitness, beauty, and well-being programmes are integrated into nature to foster that love of the natural world.

But it’s not just wellness Explora Journeys pursues; their commitment to sustainability is also apparent in their operations. Single-use plastics have been eliminated onboard and ashore, and they process wastewater to near tap water quality to be reused.

The MSC Group also plans to launch an LNG-powered vessel featuring hydrogen fuel cells, along with methane slip-reducing technology.

Royal Caribbean Cruises

symphony of the seas central park

Royal Caribbean Cruises has been pushing for sustainability in its ships for the past few decades, continuing to make strides in sustainability. This year, two of their newest ships will be the cruise industry’s first systems to turn solid waste directly into energy onboard. The cruise line is also committed to reducing food waste across the fleet by 50% by 2025.

Other than those efforts, Royal Caribbean’s use of biophilic design has made its ships unique among many other cruise lines. Their Symphony of the Seas ship boats, vertical gardens, and walls of plants bring nature into the cruise. It’s also home to a park that’s home to over 40 species of plants. Oasis of the Seas also has a version of Central Park.

The onboard neighbourhood garden covered with 12,000 beautiful living plants surrounds various restaurants and bars with both indoor and outdoor seating, making it reminiscent of the iconic New York Park. Integrating sustainability into communal spaces through design helps connect people to nature in an otherwise nature-free space.


For more on biophilic design and its use in sustainability and wellness, visit our Biofilico homepage for more insights.

Carlo Battisti - a vision for biophilic architecture and interiors in regenerative real estate

View on Zencastr

An interview with Carlo Battisti, President of Living Future Europe.

Carlo qualified as a Civil Engineer from Milan's prestigious Politécnico University and now specializes in sustainable innovation and project management.

He is certified with LEED for green buildings, and WELL for healthy buildings and natural systems, amongst a host of other professional accreditations.

Biophilic Architecture - a Regenerative real estate vision

Here we discuss the the connection to nature between biophilic design, beauty and wellbeing from the perspective of the International Living Future Institute.

We also look at the concept of restorative real estate developments, and even at how the Bolzano area of Italy that he is in has carved out a role for itself as a sustainable innovation hub within Italy.

This is a dense but extremely dynamic conversation advocating for going beyond merely sustainable buildings.

I really felt I was in the presence of someone who has completely mastered his art and is now committed to giving back to society by sharing that knowledge through a range of different mediums, including but not limited to podcasts!

• https://www.living-future.eu/biophilic-society/

• https://www.living-future.eu/biophilia-summit-2023-call-for-abstracts-is-open/

• https://www.instagram.com/lfeurope/

---

Full transcript follows courtesy of Otter.ai - please excuse any typos errors!

International Living Future Institute - biophilic design and regenerative real estate leader

Matt Morley

Carlo thank you so much for joining us on the show. I'm looking forward to our conversation, it's going to cover a lot. But I know you'll, you'll have the expertise to make it succinct, and also to help make it manageable for people to understand, because there's a lot for us to cover. So why don't we begin? Let's give an introduction to the ILFI.

Carlo Battisti

Yeah, surely. So first of all, I'm a building engineer by background, I've been working for 20 years in construction firms. Now it's already 15 years I'm dealing with sustainability and innovation in the building industry.

Living Building Challenge

I started dealing with sustainability standards, let's say, around 10 years ago, or even more, I discovered the Living Building Challenge, which is really the most ambitious sustainability standard for building occupants and the built environment.

I remember I went to Portland, USA for the annual flagship conference, Living Future 2014. I remember I was the only European in the room - "what are you doing here" they all said! I came back home with my brain full of ideas, and the work that they're doing is always amazing, even now.

Sustainability Standards

So it's really disruptive, because, you know, there are many sustainability standards out there are many conversation about how to make the bidding industry greener.

But the LBC really set the bar much higher. And knowing that the progress that we've been achieving in terms of the debates in the media industry, it's all still barely visible so we need to do much more.

The radical concept behind everything is really to move from a less bad to a more good scenario.

Restorative first, then Regenerative Buildings

So having a built environment could be restorative first and then regenerative, really improving the conditions for the environment and making possible an ecosystem that thrives, with personal and human connection and thriving in a regenerative way within the built environment.

Given that we know we are impacting the built environment generally, on all the sectors and environment more in general, we need to do much more. This living breathing channel framework is really a very holistic approach based on the metaphor of a building as a flower.

ILFI's seven petals

So there is this concept of the seven petals, the ILFI is basically developing these standards covering buildings have been in progress companies, communities, and office buildings and so forth and so on.

And we as Living Future Europe started opening their first European office in 2018. Now, we are an independent legal entity, we are basically promoting their programs across Europe with different activities to do with biophilic architecture, biophilic design principles and so on.

A career in biophilic design and the interior environment

Matt Morley

You mentioned your own professional background. A lot of people ask me how to get into this industry? What's the best way in? You know, how do we study for biophilic design? Or how do we study to get into the space that you're in? And it's not always an obvious response?

I think I see a lot of architects, engineers, project managers, from your position for someone interested in the space around green buildings, healthy buildings, commercial buildings that enhance well being and actually give back rather than take away from nature.

What are the usual roots in and where do you see education feeding into this space for interior designers and biophilic design experts in the future?

Developing expertise in biophilic design principles

Carlo Battisti

Yeah, that's a good point, in my personal experience, the process was very long. I don't know why it happened this way that's just life! I arrived to this point.

After many years in the construction industry but you can imagine what that was like in the 90s, or at the end of the last millenium, the situation was completely different - much less concern about the natural environment and natural materials.

The mantra was, if you remember, to just build, build, build and sell, and there was no particular attention on sustainability, outdoor space, green space, natural features.

Now, it's true that we are dealing with sustainability already for like two or three decades, considering all of the standards the framework that been developed in the same moment.

A career in biophilic architecture and the built environment

So for people starting their career now, it's really a bit different. This sustainability issue, this tension to sustainability, this need is so important that it's clearly the main focus not only for the building industry and architects or engineers but all economic sectors should really address this need for a more human connection, well being and biophilic design focuses in a more effective way.

It's important to have some technical, robust background because in the end, that is how you can deliver things. That is important.

Understanding real estate and construction

You need to know the processes behind real estate construction and biophilic design for an interior space for example, you need to know what you're basically doing as a designer, as a manufacturer, as a general contractor, because this is really what in the end impacts on the end result.

Also, in terms of sustainability and green buildings, it's important now that everything we are working with is really embedded in a broader sustainability concept.

So sustainability, in other terms, should be in the DNA of what we do as designers, contractors, or building product manufacturers, real estate developers, and so on.

Challenges in integrating biophilic design principles in built environment

I see there are really huge challenges ahead still. Like for instance, this Living Building Challenge also in the title is a ''challenge'! It's not easy, it's difficult to achieve a fully regenerative built environment.

On the other hand, I personally see a huge amount of opportunities for young professionals. And moreover, they have a really a different background. So consider, for instance, the Greta Thunberg movement to protect our natural habitat in modern society.

They have a really different approach, they know that we could do things better, that's why they are more open minded, they can really address these topics in a more effective way. Probably better that some senior professionals,

Matt Morley

For me , it was a decade working for a real estate developer, and then I moved across and transitioned into sustainability standards, organic materials, the health benefits of biophilic design strategies in an urban environment, how to integrate organic forms when evoking nature, and more generally what we term biophilic design principles in real estate and interiors from there.

Maybe that means I'm more limited, because I see new generations coming up already and they just start on the sustainability path much, much earlier than me so they leave university with really deep knowledge.

I think there's benefits to both routes still, both groups are coexisting in the job market but the new generation coming up are arguably starting even earlier than that we were able to! It's a process of human evolution I guess.

Living Building Challenge applied to urban environments

You mentioned the Living Building Challenge, we also have the Living Product Challenge, I think it's important to make that connection between the building itself and the elements that go into it, that contribute to creating a more regenerative building.

So the product challenge, it's like a sustainability standard for building components in a sense, right?

Carlo Battisti

Yeah, it's true, in fact, the frameworks really cover the entire biophilic design supply chain because they quickly understood that you need to address the entire supply chain from the developers up to the end users, because they're all parts of the same big picture if your goal is to achieve true sustainability in the built environment.

Product manufacturers in the built environment

So where is real success in sustainability to be found? Sometimes it's on the shoulders of building product manufacturers, because the way they are producing or designing their own products is really key in terms of achieving some sustainability results.

Under this perspective, the Living Product Challenge is a fantastic framework, really a Circular Economy standard or certification. So it is sort of party verified, as basically it's the application of say of the Living Building Challenge, our company is really producing a specific product in its supply chain in its factory, it is production line, following regenerative principles, so how they're producing and consuming energy from renewable sources, how they're managing the water cycle, how they're managing the waste products, is the product inspired by Biophilia or by biomimicry in some cases?

A supply chain perspective

Are they addressing this concept of beauty in the way they are producing things? What are the relationship between the company and their stakeholders, the community, their employees?

It's really a very broad and full regenerative approach with a really a circular entity in the end. I see that there are some amazing companies that register and certify their products with the Living Product challenge.

Declare label for well being

One company started with the Declare label, you know this ingredient label of forbidden products, and then they moved on to the Living Product Challenge, registered all of the catalog, and now they're producing what are considered to be the more sustainable office furniture on the market - desks, chairs, and so on.

They've been able to avoid some harmful substances that were typical in the furniture industry, like, for instance, chromium six, like PVC, formaldehyde and other harmful ingredients.

So this implies that you have like to put in place, also some innovative ideas to change your process to transform your production lines, which is not easy. Moreover, for some big industry, but these changes that they're making are really beacons of light.

And in the industry, they can also act as demonstrators that these changes are really possible. And once they they do it, then others will come, the others will follow.

Eco labels and the healthy material connection to nature

Matt Morley

To place some context on that, a lot of the products with a some kind of an eco label are often really just saying, well, it's non toxic, it is not doing harm to the indoor air environment, for example, if you place our products in your interior space, or if you use our paint, or use our adhesive.

What you're describing is something much more advanced and comprehensive and holistic in that you're looking at a far wider range of factors.

So for me, anything that's coming out with a DECLARE or even Living Product Challenge certification, it's absolutely the gold standard, it really is lightyears ahead of everything else.

I imagine that that means it is also much harder for those companies to satisfy those standards, because you're just asking a lot more from them!

They are also leading the way, right, they're showing what is possible, and being the early adopters, for the others to then follow. I think in the future, it might be a basic starting point. But to go beyond that, you need something like what you've just described?

Carlo Battisti

The healthy products debate

Yeah, well, there is you know is a big issue with healthy products in the built environment and the building industry. So let me be very frank on this.

The developer that built the Bullitt Center where International Living Future Institute in the US are based, it's in Seattle, he used to say that being compliant with the norm is only one step above being illegal.

And that through sometimes, if you remember, we took like 20 years to ban some harmful substances that we discovered were completely critical. And, and chemistry is running really faster than our capacity to understand what's happening.

You know, if this product, the products that we are using in our indoor spaces are healthy, are safe, or not. So that's why it's true, that could be challenging for these companies to demonstrate how good they are in doing some things, but it's really covering this real addressing sort of social issue this up dramatically important, so our human health, and the health of future generations.

Building product manufacturers

So we discovered that we need to start asking more from building product manufacturers to put more questions to to request the same level of transparency, for instance, we used to have in the food industry or in the textile industry.

So we learned we started learning, let's say to read into these labels to put questions so what's the product where the product is coming from? How the product is made? What are the ingredients if they're harmful or not?

Healthy building products

So this is crucially important so that's why it's true that this be challenged but it's basically covering our rights to be health healthy to see in the end and this is absolutely a level let's say of the bar that we cannot like like really say reduce because this is really very much connected with the health of our persons our people say

Matt Morley

It's almost like taking your building to the doctor's right and the doctor is looking for the the unhealthy points and recommending how to improve the health of the building and for many people it's easier not to worry about that you know you think about your own health maybe think about the quality or this the know how your food ingredients have been sourced but for many people to think about mental health of the building or the home you live in it's it's just not something.

Product standards are not high enough

Carlo Battisti

They say okay, the product should be comply with the norms. Okay, that's fine, but probably it's not enough. For instance, you are for sure following this discussion about the PFAs. Now the so there was this group of 17 June also newspapers magazine from all over Europe that completed this tremendous survey and investigation, let's say, on Where are where is PFAs in Europe, and... it's everywhere.

Red List Chemicals vs natural materials

And this is something that is used in the building industry, so the ILFI every year is updating the so called the Red List. And last year they included 11,000, new PFAs numbers in this list.

So just to say that, how is it possible for designers, but also for end users to follow all of these products, these natural materials, all of these processes are all of these developments in the chemical industry.

Declare label of ingredients

So that's why this demand of healthy products, for instance, the Declare label, is that really addressing this request is so important, because the question is really "what's in the product"? And is this ingredient harmful or not? You have to tell me, You mean in your bill in parliament of factors.

This is compliant with the so called Precautionary Principle that, for instance, in Europe is pretty common, but United States it's not so really accepted in the economy for instance, is still valid that architects and designers in the US guarantee that the product they use in the buildings are safe, not the manufacturers.

So understand it's completely nonsense is the manufacturer, that should be really the first to say, okay, my product is totally healthy and safe. That's why I can put it on the market, it's not the other way around that the end user should demonstrate that the product is safe is safe.

Standards for biophilic architecture and regeneration

Matt Morley

You mentioned the relationship there between the architects specifying individual products and imagine, you know, on a complete refurb, or new construction, there's a huge amount of information that they need to gather to process.

And then obviously, they know that they've got aesthetic concerns form and function, they've got budget, they've got to develop a client behind them, pushing them in one direction maybe being pulled in multiple directions.

At the same time. It's complex. How does the role of the type of green building certifications that you offer via Living Future Europe? How can that play a role in simplifying or providing guidance in that process?

So that there's a there's a roadmap for them to follow? Is that is that one of the advantages in doing it? Or is it more a case of having an extra resource on board who can help to bring new expertise to the consultancy team on development project?

Carlo Battisti

Yeah, I will say the work that I did for instance, with the Declare label was exactly to reconnect people and designers with the building industry, because in the end, they have been really disconnected in the last decades.

So we believe that the products are safer we live with believes that the manufacturers are doing their work properly. Sometimes we need to put more questions to look into into it. And like just for instance, really, this decline label is very simple.

So it's sort of an ingredients label for building products, where you can find all of the information on the building products, for instance, also, the expectance, let's say of life, what will be the let's say the final use of the product if the product could be recyclable, compostable, reusable, also the co2 emissions number connected through the product production.

Lifecycle assessment

So that you can also use this data for the lifecycle assessment of your building, and also of your product itself. So where the product is manufactured. So basically, it's a way to prove to provide in a simpler way complex information to and use it to the market.

This information are available on some database, and they'll say, as you said, so the role that these green building standards really played in the last decades is really to make to highlight the importance of this information sometimes could be a bit confusing.

I agree with you there is a really a plethora of labels and standards and certifications, sometimes they'll self declare sometimes that third third party verified. So it's really difficult for for end user for designers, we are really trying to make the things simpler, really starting from from the basic question, is this product safe or not?

Toxic substances in building materials

Are there in some harmful or toxic ingredients of substances or not? Then clearly, you as designer, architect and engineer they have they have to couple this information with other performance data because in the end, the product should be also performing for the purposes You select it, if it is like a flooring or structural elements on so forth, and so forth and so on.

But yeah, so we have to combine all of these things together search the right information. There are already some databases available. publicly for for designers. It's a bit complex, you have to take really holistic approach.

But I'd say this is also very interesting and, and absolutely motivated for, for the architects and engineers, because in the end, they're really responsible for the work they're doing. And the bill is they're creating the life of people who will leave in those buildings, so and they will live their life for decades.

So in the end, it's a sort of responsibility or responsible role that the planners the designers are are taking. It's, you know, it's a bit different. Compared to what happened, let's say, decades ago, we were talking only about like some architectural elements, the shape, or the layout of a building.

We were like discussing many times or the color of the ceramic tiles, but probably they are more important things to come into.

Biophilic design combines sustainability and wellbeing

Matt Morley

And how do you see biophilic design fitting into that? I've often thought of it as being this interesting hybrid of healthy buildings or healthy wellness interiors, and biophilic design focuses, and sustainability.

Biophilic Society Europe

I was interested with your role, both from the Biophilic Society in Europe, but then also with the connection to the ILFI's biophilic design initiative that always seems to get amazing amounts of press is popping up on my my Google searches every day, it seems that their various prizes and awards.

How does biophilic design fit into this? Is it both healthy and sustainable at the same time? Or how do you see that structure?

Biophilic design to enhance well being and connection to nature

Carlo Battisti

Now, very good point, Matt. Because in by chance, it is always a not by chance back to the previous version of the standard of Living Building Challenge, the 3.1 version, the Biophilia concept was embedded in the health and happiness petal.

Now with the new version, the fourth version, which has been launched in 2019, it has been moved to the beauty petal. So to recognize that Biophilia is not only about how healthy the indoor spaces are, but it's also something more... so really addressing the beauty concept of a building.

And this is very much embedded in the standard Living Building Challenge things we are doing, we really discovered that we need to address this concept in a more effective way.

This is something for instance, that popped up, let's say dramatically during the pandemic. So during the pandemic time, we were blocking our lockdown in our cities and our builders, we discovered how important it was leaving in some beautiful biophilic interior spaces and of races looking out of your window to like a park or a garden or biophilic places instead of a concrete building.

Natural landscapes

How different was our perception of the world around us, where we were basically obliged to stay in lockdown for more than 90% of our daily time, which is something that basically we are always doing like for instance, this, like this moment, we are both in some enclosed spaces.

So all these spaces are are designed and made this is really important. So we started addressing this concept of a more effective way. We started with this Biophilia campaign last year in the woods of South till the end of September.

So we basically convene 15 professionals from all over Europe, there was also a couple of persons from the Middle East, the one person from the United States, so to work and trained and live together for four days, in really very much connected with nature, with some indoor and outdoor activities from this Biophilia camp, this idea of Biophilic Society came out.

So the biophilic society is not only like the society or biophilic law or something like the societies in London in the 19th centuries. Remember, there were societies for everything. So it's not only the Society of biophilic people, but it's also the concept that society could be more biophilic.

A connection to nature

And that our message is really that reconnecting with nature could be really an effective way to save, let's say, our life, let's say in the next decades and center, so this is absolutely important that that's why we started with, with some activities by Finnish societies, basically a network or as we used to call it a linear system of passionate people around Europe and also outside the Europe.

We are meeting on a monthly basis, presenting some case studies and experiences. And now we are organizing this Biophilia Summit, which will be online on the seventh of June, 2023. It is online because it is the easier way for, for us to say to connect, the more people possible.

Even if clearly, meeting in person could be a better idea, but for the first time, the idea is really to have a larger participation and also to address by failure, not only on the architectural sectors are not not only biophilic design, but also put in by a fee in connection with other sectors like racism, with agriculture, with psychology. And obviously, also with with architecture with photography.

So there will be many examples of how we can read Biophilia through different lenses. And we are absolutely encouraging your followers to connect on the seventh of June, for a full day with a lot of fantastic speakers.

Matt Morley

Natural light and much more

So it will include the links to that in the show notes. And then the relationship between the potential of biophilia to create spaces that not only provide beauty natural light, but also mental and physical well being for the occupants in the space.

And then also, whilst not doing any harm, and ideally, giving something back to the environment around it, to transition from that type of concept into restorative sustainability, use the words early restore and then regenerate.

Perhaps it's worth just clarifying that and if you if there's a distinction between them in your mind if they have two phases, if one leads to the other, and perhaps Yeah, just to understand how we use those terms precisely around "restorative" sustainability and "regenerative".

Regenerative real estate and interior space

Carlo Battisti

Now, that's absolutely an important question. So it's important to clarify. So, we start again from Biophilia. So Biophilia is really embedded in this discussion or conversation about sustainability because reconnecting with nature is something that's vitally important.

So one of the main problem and one of the reasons why we came to this situation stems with this ecological global crisis is really the fact that we we really disconnected from nature, we really didn't understand the natural processes and flows and so forth and so on.

And also our life and our activities are really impacting on the environment and the environment is basically around us, we are parts of the environment, we are part of nature, we have the same natural elements together with other living species.

So we are always say in the same situation, the the point of sustainability is very important, because, you know, sometimes we are, so obviously, often we are very confused about this terms of sustainability, because everyone is really providing us a different explanation, a different description of sustainability.

And this is something where we should be more really very clear. So for us sustainability is a is a is really giving back to the environment, what we have been taken off. So it's really sort of zero points in the diagram, you can imagine a diagram, comparing, let's say, our actions and the impact on on on the environment.

Towards Net Zero buildings

So it's really the net zero point in this diagram, and we haven't reached out this point is still so we are still free, again, within the built environment doing less bad.

So we are designing and building buildings that are less consuming, less impacting, doing less harm. So sometimes it's also frustrating because it's always a negative concept. Again, talking about green buildings, there are buildings that they're basically doing less harm, they're not even sustainable. They're not still say sustainable.

For instance, this definition of sustainability is something that also Yvon Chouinard from Patagonia is basically providers the same, the same concept, he says, We shouldn't start, we should, we shouldn't talk about sustainability, until we really give back to the environment what we took off.

So only from that point on, we can really talk about sustainability, moving forward on this sort of ideal S curve is becoming restorative. So basically, again, talking about the built environment, or the action we can do in the built environment is really recovering the damage that we did in the past years.

Because we did a lot of damage and so weak but we can recover this previous situation and move moving forward toward a more exotic conservation means that we should really create the conditions for the built environment, the building system, and the let's say the ecosystem around us to thrive in a continuous way, in a permanent way, really as living organisms say, are we able to conceive, like, for instance, a building performance, his weight, yes, it's possible.

He's also technologically and financially via variable. So it's like, for instance, a building that is completely done with safe materials, that is producing more energy that consumes from renewable sources, and so forth and so on.

That is, let's say, providing benefits and positive effects on people and living species and beings, and so forth, and so on. So it's really a sort of dynamic concept of sustainability. And if we are always, let's say, comparing the effects of our actions to the built environment, or what's happening in terms of ecological global crisis, so where we know that we already exceeded exceeded some of the planetary boundaries, we we understand immediately that we have the urgency to do much more to do much better now.

So without like, waiting for for four years without, let's say, planning some magical roadmap, so we need to act really quickly, immediately. And the good news is that we have all of the expertise or all of the technologies and techniques available, or the materials, the strategies is really about to be be be more convinced and be more responsible of what we're doing, and and walk the talk basically, and put this this country concrete strategies into action.

Matt Morley

And in your advisory services, then how are you working with the industry? Is that typically, you collaborating with developers?

Are you spreading the message around sustainable buildings and this particular interpretation architectural design that you have of how they can do more good at a sort of purely information level?

Or are you working on a commercial scale with developers on for example, tenders or feasibility studies as well?

Carlo Battisti

We really try to spread the word on all the levels possible on the entire supply chain, with training, workshops... Education is really key. Because it's really about creating a different culture, as you can imagine, so from the end of last year, we started also provided some advisory services for some specific projects.

So we understood that it's important to follow some exemplary projects, and bring them forward, let's say to the end, so that they can become real, and they can actually act really as demonstrators of the visibility of these concepts.

Instead of providing like generic answers to all of the inquires we're receiving from from Europe is we did up to last year. Now we are really following some specific projects.

For instance, we are working on a first full Living Building Challenge registered project is Scotland. It's a fantastic school complex with all of the students from the primary to the high school. And basically they are working to create this pavilion where they will teach sustainability to their students and also to their community.

So a unique place to deal with this concept. And for instance, we are working together with with the design team on this project. We're also following for instance, a completely different situation - a standard small residential building all made in timber in Madrid, which is pursuing both zero energy and zero carbon certification.

So as you can see, there are many ways to achieve great results. And we are trying to say to work together, we are really working alongside of the consultants in this specific situation in order to, to make this process become real. So it's basically a role of facilitator. Because once these projects, these buildings are finished, then you can really you know, you can explain the case that you can explain how you did it.

And it's probably the best example that you can provide to your stakeholders because in the end, people understand that, okay, this is feasible. This is something I could do. And I would like to do for my home, my new school, my new public building, or my new office building. And, you know, it's a matter of examples sometimes.

Bolzano, Alto-Adige - a sustainability case study

Matt Morley

Very interesting. Let me ask if I may, just one final question because, Bolzano and the region you're in there in Italy just keeps coming up on my radar or has been doing that for well over five or six years. I think something is happening in that part of the natural world too...

I'm really interested to know how much it's feeding your work with inspiration? Is it providing inspiration or what is what is going on in that region, because it just seems to be, particularly within the context of Italy, which, let's be honest, is often not necessarily the first country that comes up, we might think of the Scandinavian countries that are perhaps leading the way on sustainability. But I think there's something happening in that quarter of the country, right?

Carlo Battisti

I would say that the local autonomous government is really providing a lot of great marketing, let's say, this is could be one point!

No, it's true that some specific data is a very specific situation in Italy, also, due to the fact that is local autonomous government.

So it's, it's an autonomous province. So basically, you know, all of the public services are managed locally. And sometimes people really understand how their money has been coming from taxes, has been spent, you know, schools or hospitals are managed by the local government, there are other services like for instance, police post justice, that clearly are managed at the national level. So this could be one of the explanation.

Or another explanation is the fact that there's really a sort of a ring in the chain between the Mediterranean and the Nordic environment in the same talk in from a drag geographical perspective, here, people are mostly speaking German language. So they are very much connected with the German speaking area.

And for instance, you know, that Germany and Austria and these countries have been always very keen on energy efficiency thinks for instance, here, there is a standard that stopped that we've been basically created like already more than 20 years ago, and added efficiency standard, which is mandatory for the local local builders.

So it started with energy efficiency, and then from energy efficiency, basically, this conversation of sustainability, got a broader perspective. Say it's a small region with 500,000, inhabitants, a lot of nature, a lot of mountains, you know, so in a few minutes, we are in the Mantis, it could be a sensitive environment.

So because you know, there could be like some trade offs, like, for instance, out to attract more tourists, which is something that is interesting for the economy, but without impact on the environment.

So this is a huge trade off. And this is something that is now every day in the news, because there is really a tension between these two aspects. So it's an important conversation that probably will take another another an hour to be addressed.

But again, probably this close proximity with nature is something that inspires people. More I, I moved here like years ago, so I'm not from from this region, as many others did.

And I wouldn't return back, let's be frank, I like to be here. And it's considered also, again, the most probably the more sustainable region in terms of sustainability approach, in Italy, say, so.

And that's why it's good to be here, there is this nitec Park, this noise, an acronym for nature of innovation, but it's also it's also a different understanding in terms of explanation in German, and in Italian, because it's hot in Italian. And it's also new in German.

So with the same acronym, the same term were basically addressed to the three languages, it's absolutely a great place to it's technological Park is basically, it's the renovation of an existing aluminium production plant that was used between the two World Wars.

It's a 12 hectares area acquired by the local government, and now under a huge transformation, really to create this technological park where there are startups, tech companies, and so forth. And so we settled here in 2018.

And it's absolutely a great opportunity to be here to connect with other research centers, companies, startups, you know, an eight, it's all about innovation. It's, it's a great initiative. So the idea was really, to put all these different actors in the same place.

And for the sole fact that you are meeting the real at the bar and drinking a coffee and you start talking about you know, your ID, and then you discover that could be a company interested in developing your ID or Research Center, study your ID and moving forward to create something more concrete so it's basically how this innovation processes start.

And that's why it makes sense to have this big, huge facilitator tool to help the innovation try I have here in the in the region.

Matt Morley

Wonderful. Well, thank you so much. That was really a fascinating conversation. Anyone interested in connecting with you or learning more about your initiatives or following along, which social media channels are you using for your communications?

Carlo Battisti

Well, so we are pretty active on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. So follow Living Future Europe.

We are generally updating daily, probably to much! We are doing many things because we understood that there are many topics to cover, you know, the building industry, the built environment is a bit complex, it is touching many angles.

So that's why we are really working on some topics that we find very important and key for our development. So please follow us and let us know if you need any information. I'm happy to provide them.

https://www.living-future.eu/

https://www.living-future.eu/biophilic-society/

https://www.living-future.eu/biophilia-summit-2023-call-for-abstracts-is-open/

Best Examples of Biophilic Buildings in Commercial Real Estate — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

Best Examples of Biophilic commercial developments

Examples of biophilic design in architecture are gaining prominence in high-profile commercial buildings around the world, here we examine the best concepts that combine elements of nature, wellbeing and sustainability

• LaMercedes, Barcelona / Developers: Conren Tramway / Architects: BatlleRoig

• Roots In The Sky, London / Developers: Fabrix / Concept Architects: Studio RHE / Project Architects: Sheppard Robson

• CapitaSpring building, Singapore / Developers: CapitaSpring / Architects: BIG

• Yorkville - The Ring, Hong Kong / Developers: Hong Kong Land / Architects: PHA

• NION, Frankfurt / Developers: Groß & Partners / Architects: Unstudio

• Holbein Gardens / Developer: Grosvenor Property UK / Architects: Barr Gazetas

Incorporating natural elements into biophilic design is essential for supporting sustainability and enhancing wellbeing.

LaMercedes Barcelona - a biophilic mixed-use development

LaMercedes, Barcelona by Conren Tramway (architects Batlleiroig)

LaMercedes, Barcelona by Conren Tramway (architects Batlleiroig)

Conren Tramway are a Spanish investor, developer group based in Barcelona and Madrid with an expansive portfolio covering office, residential and mixed-use development and investment projects.

In addition to the iconic Three Towers, ‘Les Tres Xemeneies del Parallel’, in Barcelona and various mixed-use developments in the new business distric @22 in Poblenou, this group have taken on what is perhaps their most ambitious urban regeneration project yet - LaMercedes, set to the first ‘eco-district’ in Spain integrating a variety of sustainable green building concepts, healthy building wellbeing strategies real estate ESG criteria.

What was once a car factory in an industrial area of the city is to be transformed by local architects Batlleiroig into an 185,000 sqm development that is “carbon and car-free”, a “sustainable island’“ in the city. Public services will include a museum, community center and an educational facility.

The project aims to mimic natural environments to improve the health and wellbeing of its occupants, as well as to optimize sustainability and environmental performance.

A total of 15,000m2 of retail space and 1300 residential units combined with 46,000m2 of creative offices and a ‘talent campus’ for 2000 students will make this a truly unique new addition to Barcelona’s urban landscape.

Another key feature of this ‘eco-illa’ will be the intelligent mobility system that pushes the infrastructure underground including a traffic system to leave the ground floor vehicle-free, meaning a pedestrianized and cycle-friendly experience for residents and visitors.

Expect to see an abundance of green space in the built environment, plenty of outdoor space to enhance wellbeing, an architectural design that integrates biophilic design principles and natural materials for human connection with the outside world.

https://lamercedes.barcelona/

---

Roots in the Sky, London - biophilic design and natural light in office real estate

Roots in the Sky by Fabrix

Already attracting attention for its headline-grabbing 1.4-acre urban forest rooftop accessible by the local community, Roots in the Sky is a statement of intent by the developers Fabrix, showing their focus on - biodiversity and sustainability in real estate.

What was once a 1960s era building housing Blackfriars Crown Court will undergo an urban regeneration facelift into an all-electric 385,000 sq ft mixed-use development containing offices, community spaces and retail.

Based around a hybrid steel and CLT (cross laminate timber) frame that reduces embodied carbon content, the concept architects are Studio RHE led by Richard Hywel Evans and project architects are Sheppard Robson with environmental consulting support by Atelier Ten.

A passive ventilation strategy, operable windows for natural ventilation on warmer days, a feature atrium for waste heat extraction, and 1300 tonnes of soil on the roof to attract nature back into the city while protecting against the risk of flash flooding, all make this one of the most sustainable real estate developments to take shape in London in recent years, and there has been no shortage of them due to the increasingly strict planning regulations coming into place via the Mayor’s office.

That rooftop will accommodate a restaurant, landscaping by Harris Bugg, an estimated 10,000 plants and a passive water capture system for irrigation on-site reducing the building’s water demands.

This is an example of how to enhance well being in office buildings through a combination of natural light, natural landscapes and green walls as key biophilic design principles.

https://www.fabrix.london/project-item/blackfriars-se1/   

---

CapitaSpring, Singapore - biophilic architecture in mixed-use real estate

CapitaSpring office building

Combine BIG Architects, a ‘city in a garden location’ and the backing of a giant developer and out comes this 51-floor, 280m high building of Grade A office space, serviced apartments and a four-story garden dubbed the ‘green oasis’.

Transforming the site of a former car park complex built in the 1980s this new example of biophilic design in architecture aims for icon status with its eye-catching exterior facade complete with vertical elements that appear to be prized apart to reveal flashes of nature emerging through the cracks, at a giant scale.

This interplay between building and nature is more common at an interiors scale but doing it here takes the concept in a completely new direction.

This is also, as we would expect, a ‘smart building’ full of IOT tech and sensors to facilitate customization of the building occupant experience.

Eight floors of serviced residences with a long list of lifestyle amenities such as a mini indoor jogging track, pool, gym, residents lounge and BBQ pits are topped by offices and the open-air garden space large enough for work breaks, lunchtime walks and more.

Natural features such as biophilic design in the interior environment, show how the developer, architects and interior designers have integrated natural systems and organic materials, natural forms and consideration for mental health, creating a seamless connection with natural environments.

To create spaces like this in modern society takes a bold vision of the health benefits of introducing an element of natural habitat back into dense urban areas.

https://capitaspringoffice.com/

---

hongkong land's yorkville the ring - botanical architecture in real estate

hong kong land’s yorkville the ring

Located in Chongqing, China this 420,000m2 mixed-use retail-led development called Yorkville - The Ring is split between 170,000m2 of retail mall, 110,000m2 of offices and… wait for it, 70,000m2 of indoor botanical garden.

PHA Architects are behind the masterplan and design of this new lifestyle destination that has an enclosed landscaped commercial street embraced by two office towers.

This opens up the possibility of visual dialogue between the verdant, stepped terrace balconies of the towers above and the indoor botanical garden space.

In an attempt to blend a highly urban retail concept with a nature-centric, or biophilic design approach, the retail circulation spaces have been interwoven with the indoor botanical garden at various levels, inviting visitors to engage with the botanical experience as they navigate from one retail store to another, incorporating natural elements into the built environment.

Parametric modeling of the building facade allowed for a modular design, combining curved ceramic tiles with aluminium panels and LED lighting for an understated yet elegant aesthetic perfectly pitched for the expectations of both the local clientele and the all-important retail brand tenants.

Biophilic design principles such as respect for the natural environment in the interior space as well as natural ventilation, a strong visual connection with the natural world in respect of human evolution, even natural geometries evoking nature. There is so much goodness for human health in this building!

https://www.ph-alpha.com/project-detail.php?id=20&lang=en

---

NION by Unstudio Frankfurt am Main - biophilic design in real estate

Unstudio NION office building

Designed with the deliberate intention to become one of Frankfurt’s if not Germany’s most sustainable office building, NION is located in the city’s Europaviertel West district where big things are happening in urban regeneration over the past two decades.

Unstudio have integrated ESG criteria and resource-efficient tech to deliver a sustainable building that considers its environmental impact as well as a social angle via the wellbeing of its regular occupants and of the community around it.

Abundant landscaping is nothing new nowadays in real estate developments such as this yet when combined with a low-carbon, modular and circular economy principles it takes on renewed meaning, becoming almost like the external signal of what is going on inside the building’s facade and daily operational energy use.

A green wall is one such biophilic design intervention that can be implemented to improve views and connect people with the natural environment within a built space.

When biophilia and greenery are purely superficial, this chain link falls apart; for us it a fundamental component of a biophilic design concept to combine elements of sustainability and wellbeing as in this example.

The planting serves to encourage biodiversity, contributing to an emerging urban green corridor in the district and giving insects, birds and wildlife an opportunity to return to this corner of the city.

Rainwater management systems improve water efficiency, geothermal heating and cooling reduce energy demands, smart building management ensure daily operations are fine tuned with the demand-based air conditioning (especially relevant now in the post-Covid, remote work era when areas of an office may be in greater or lesser demand at certain days or times of day).

Biophilic design focuses on well being for occupants while respecting the environment, so often there is a need for landscape architects to create multi sensory interactions via water features, naturalistic shapes, organic forms in the landscaping and so on.

Here we see a material connection between the indoor and outdoor environment by the seamless integration of biophilic principles thanks to the vision of UN Studio.

https://www.unstudio.com/en/page/16495/nion

---

Holbein Gardens, London - biophilia in real estate

Sitting prime real estate near London’s Sloane Square station this 26,524 sq ft development by Grosvenor Property UK and Barr Gazetas architects dials in the sustainable building credentials to create what will be a highly efficient, low-emission building set to be Net Zero by 2025.

Holbein Gardens by Grosvenor Property UK

Sitting prime real estate near London’s Sloane Square station this 26,524 sq ft development by Grosvenor Property UK and Barr Gazetas architects dials in the sustainable building credentials to create what will be a highly efficient, low-emission building set to be Net Zero by 2025.

Barr Gazetas retained the existing structure rather than opting for demolition (equivalent to 59 tonnes of concrete / a 39% embodied carbon saving), reusing 13.5 tonnes of steelworks to reduce embodied carbon emissions, used a CLT structure, used reclaimed brickwork with lime based mortar for improved disassembly (Circular Economy principle). In total, 99.95% of all strip out waste was successfully diverted from landfill.

This all-electric, eight-story block powered by 100% renewable energy procured from the UK grid combined with photovoltaic panels on the roof generating around 17% of the projected maximum demand. As such, it is scheduled to save 50% operational energy consumption compared to benchmarks in the London, according to the developer.

Improved fenestration allows for enhanced access to natural daylight, reducing the need for artificial lighting at certain times of day.

Rainwater capture and reuse on the rooftop reduces water demand while a 714 sq ft communal roof garden with outdoor kitchen provides both biodiversity opportunities (135% net biodiversity gain) and access to biophilia for building occupants during their work days. That is in addition to the four green walls on the exterior facade.

Active travel features include 79 cycle spaces, 68 lockers and nine showers for those using active transportation methods to get to or from work each day.

Such passive strategies have obvious psychological benefits while also ensuring some ecological attachment at the start and end of a work day for example.

Cognitive function is enhanced via a connection to nature which can be both through direct experience and representations of nature, public spaces with potted plants, natural colours and local timber, outdoor areas with biomorphic forms in the garden design, if all urban environments looked like Holbein Gardens we have no doubt the foot traffic would explode as we all have this inherent need for a strong connection to nature.

A total of four different green building certifications are targeted, namely: BREEAM Outstanding, WELL Enabled, Nabers 4.5 and EPC A rating.

---

guide to sustainable hotel resort standards, certification ecolabels — biofilico wellness interiors

Understanding Sustainable Hotel Resort Standards and Certifications

Hotels and resorts are linked to air and water pollution, consume considerable amounts of energy that may well be from fossil fuels, emit carbon, consume water, and create various forms of waste. A hospitality business now needs to consider its environmental and social impact as well as its economic performance to be considered truly sustainable.

This applies to the planning, construction, design, and fit-out phases in a hotel’s lifecycle, as well as during the operational phase. Food services play a crucial role in maintaining sustainability standards, with food services managers ensuring top-quality food ingredients and preparation. Additionally, higher quality facilities and expanded facilities that meet sustainability criteria contribute to an overall better service quality.

Below, we outline our views as hospitality sustainability professionals on the most prominent sustainability standards, certifications, eco-friendly practices, and ecolabels that provide structure and guidance in minimizing a hotel or resort’s environmental impact.

As hotel sustainability consultants, we work with all of the below to some extent, and can align a hotel sustainability plan with one or more of these solutions, upon request, whether a formal sustainability certificate or annual ESG sustainability reporting is required or not. Increasingly, being on top of this topic is about risk management and reputation, in addition to the climate-related imperative!

---

Aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals

The 17 macro goals outlined by the United Nations in their SDGs are a global framework for tackling climate change and embracing sustainable development until 2030. These goals are vital for achieving a sustainable future and ensuring that economic development does not come at the cost of environmental degradation.

Not all of these goals relate directly to hotels and resorts, but most do, and many of the goals are interconnected. For instance, reducing energy consumption and improving energy efficiency are crucial aspects that align with these goals.

SDG 12, for example, is Responsible Consumption & Production, which has direct implications for hotel operations in the materials and finishes used in the interiors, operational equipment such as cleaning products, and in-room amenities. This connects us to sustainable agriculture and SDG 15 Life On Land.

By aligning hotel operations with these goals, hotels can significantly reduce their environmental impact while promoting social and economic sustainability. This alignment helps in achieving a balance between economic growth, environmental care, and social wellbeing.

---

Achieving B Corporation Certification for Sustainability

As with the UN SDGs, a B Corp certification is not specifically tailored to the hotel and resort industry but it represents a valuable addition to sustainability credentials. It thoroughly evaluates the social and environmental impact of a hotel business, encouraging higher standards of transparency and accountability.

During the Impact Assessment process, a hotel business will need to report on governance issues such as stakeholder engagement, ethical practices, health and safety of workers, career development, DEI policy, community engagement, supply chain management, health and wellness of guests, and environmental impact issues from renewable energy to toxin reduction and environmental education. This process helps ensure that business practices are aligned with sustainable development principles.

Achieving B Corporation certification demonstrates a hotel's commitment to sustainable business practices and can significantly enhance its reputation among eco-conscious travelers. It also encourages continuous improvement in sustainability performance, driving better practices across the industry.

---

Embracing World Travel & Tourism Council WTTC Sustainability Basics

In 2022, the WTTC introduced their own set of ‘sustainability basics’ for hotels and resorts—12 basic criteria split into three segments of four criteria each. Hotels need to sign up for eight criteria initially, with the other four to follow in due course.

The hotel sustainability efficiency section covers energy use, water use, waste, and carbon emissions. By implementing these measures, hotels can reduce their overall energy consumption and minimize their carbon footprint. The Planet section focuses on a hotel linen reuse program, green cleaning products, vegetarian F&B options, removal of plastic straws/stirrers, no single-use plastic water bottles, and bulk amenity dispensers. The third section is socially oriented, addressing community impact and reducing inequalities.

These basics serve as a foundation for hotels aiming to improve their sustainability practices. They provide a clear framework for action, helping hotels to make meaningful progress toward sustainability goals and meet guest expectations for eco-friendly accommodations.

---

Adopting Global Sustainable Tourism Council Standards

The GSTC is an accreditation body responsible for the widely used baseline standards that influence and guide various hotel and tourism sustainability certification standards. It is an umbrella organization that focuses on sustainability management, social and economic issues, environmental conservation, and protecting cultural heritage.

The GSTC standards are comprehensive, covering all aspects of hotel operations from energy and water use to waste management and community engagement. By adopting these standards, hotels can ensure that they are meeting the highest benchmarks for sustainability.

These standards help hotels to systematically reduce their environmental impact, enhance social equity, and promote economic sustainability. They also provide a clear pathway for hotels to achieve certification and recognition for their sustainability efforts.

---

Implementing Green Globe Certification Criteria

Green Globe has 25 years of history and covers 44 criteria in four groups: environmental impact, socio-economic impact, sustainable management, and cultural heritage. Green Globe's criteria relate to the UN SDGs, particularly Goals 8, 12, and 14, emphasizing worker rights, ethical business practices, supporting local enterprises, and reducing plastic waste production.

Implementing Green Globe criteria involves a thorough assessment of a hotel's operations and practices. This certification encourages hotels to adopt best practices in sustainability and to continuously improve their performance.

By achieving Green Globe certification, hotels can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability, enhance their marketability, and attract eco-conscious travelers. This certification also provides a framework for ongoing improvement, helping hotels to stay at the forefront of sustainability.

---

Leveraging EarthCheck Certification for Comprehensive Sustainability

EarthCheck is a certification system for hotels, resorts, and destinations, also providing consulting, training, and sustainability software. Their segmentation includes categories for hotels, convention centers, tours, wineries, destinations, tourism precincts, local municipalities, developers, project managers, ESD consultants, small-to-medium size businesses, restaurants, eco-tourism operators, event organizers, festivals, and councils.

EarthCheck promotes guest well-being through health-focused activities, spa services, and recreational opportunities, enhancing guest expectations and overall service quality. This is crucial for ensuring facility quality and meeting guest expectations.

The EarthCheck certification process involves benchmarking and continuous improvement, ensuring that hotels are consistently reducing their environmental impact and enhancing their sustainability performance. This certification helps hotels to achieve higher standards of sustainability and to differentiate themselves in a competitive market.

---

Pursuing Green Tourism Certification

Green Tourism is based in Edinburgh, Scotland and has a strong presence around the UK.

It promotes sustainability in hotels and tourism via a system based on three main pillars: People, Places and Planet.

Essentially, the emphasis here lies on the following criteria:

• Reducing energy use 

• Saving water 

• Efficient waste disposal 

• Ethical buying 

• Staying local and seasonal 

• Minimizing food miles 

• Promoting biodiversity 

• Adopting a smart sustainable outlook

The PEOPLE sustainability category covers support for local communities and staff engagement, PLACES is about buying local and ethically while protecting biodiversity and promoting local culture to guests; finally PLANET zeroes in on reducing carbon emissions, limited the use of natural resources and engaging with Circular Economy principles.

Fees for the first year of registration are GB £75+VAT to cover admin costs, annual fees are specific to business type and size, ranging from a ‘micro’ hotel, B&B or guesthouse with 1-6 bedrooms (GB £150 per annum) up to ‘Extra Large with 91+ rooms (priced at GB £650 annually).

Other categories cover visitor attractions, hostels, self-catering accommodation and holiday parks. Collectively this gives a sense of the target audience for this particular certification

https://www.green-tourism.com/about-us 

---

Green Key Certification 

Green Key is one of the oldest certifications, especially strong in Europe. It is recognized by the GSTC and aligns with the UN SDGs. The certification involves monitoring water, energy, waste records, and carbon footprint data. It offers a structured 5-step application process managed by the relevant national representative, including an audit and third-party verification.

Green Key certification helps hotels to systematically improve their sustainability performance and to demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship. This certification provides a clear pathway for hotels to achieve their sustainability goals and to gain recognition for their efforts.

By securing Green Key certification, hotels can enhance their marketability, attract eco-conscious travelers, and improve their overall service quality. This certification also provides a framework for ongoing improvement, helping hotels to stay at the forefront of sustainability.

---

Engaging with Travelife for Sustainable Hotels

Travelife offers sustainability certification for travel agents, tour operators, and accommodations. Their standards, recognized by the GTSC, involve a full onsite audit every two years. The certification covers environmental, social, and community criteria, focusing on energy, waste, water, wastewater, hazardous substances, biodiversity, human rights, fair wages, staff training, and supporting local communities.

Travelife ensures higher quality facilities and expanded facilities to meet the diverse needs of guests, including business practices that support sustainable tourism.

Travelife certification helps hotels to systematically improve their sustainability performance and to demonstrate their commitment to social and environmental responsibility. This certification provides a clear pathway for hotels to achieve their sustainability goals and to gain recognition for their efforts.

By engaging with Travelife, hotels can enhance their marketability, attract eco-conscious travelers, and improve their overall service quality. This certification also provides a framework for ongoing improvement, helping hotels to stay at the forefront of sustainability.

---

Utilizing WAYAJ Hotel Sustainability Rating

The WAYAJ Hotel Sustainability Rating evaluates and promotes environmentally responsible practices within the hospitality industry. It encompasses hotel energy and water efficiency, waste management and recycling, sustainable sourcing and procurement, environmentally friendly construction and design, and promoting local culture and biodiversity.

WAYAJ emphasizes a holistic approach, assessing various aspects of hotel operations, fostering continuous improvement, and enhancing guest experience and satisfaction through unique, eco-conscious offerings. This includes ensuring facility quality to meet and exceed guest expectations.

The WAYAJ Hotel Sustainability Rating helps hotels to systematically improve their sustainability performance and to demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship. This rating provides a clear pathway for hotels to achieve their sustainability goals and to gain recognition for their efforts.

By utilizing the WAYAJ rating, hotels can enhance their marketability, attract eco-conscious travelers, and improve their overall service quality. This rating also provides a framework for ongoing improvement, helping hotels to stay at the forefront of sustainability.

Elevating Service Quality with a Star Grading System

A star grading system is essential for evaluating the quality of hotel facilities and services. It helps in setting clear guest expectations and maintaining high standards. This system also encourages hotels to invest in higher quality facilities, ensuring a superior experience for guests. By adopting sustainable practices, hotels can improve their star ratings while also contributing to environmental conservation and social responsibility.

The star grading system provides a clear and objective way to measure and compare the quality of different hotels. It considers various factors, including facility quality, service quality, guest satisfaction, and overall experience. By achieving higher star ratings, hotels can enhance their reputation, attract more guests, and achieve better business outcomes.

Enhancing Facility Quality in Apartment Hotels

Apartment hotels offer a unique blend of home-like comfort and hotel services, catering to long-term guests. Ensuring higher facility quality in these establishments is crucial for guest satisfaction and loyalty. Sustainable practices, such as energy efficiency measures and waste reduction, play a significant role in maintaining high standards in apartment hotels.

By implementing sustainable practices, apartment hotels can reduce their environmental impact while providing a comfortable and high-quality experience for guests. This approach helps in meeting guest expectations, enhancing service quality, and improving overall business performance.

Promoting Sustainable Business Practices

Sustainable business practices are essential for achieving long-term success in the hospitality industry. These practices include energy efficiency measures, waste reduction strategies, ethical sourcing, and community engagement. By adopting sustainable business practices, hotels can reduce their environmental impact, enhance their reputation, and improve their financial performance.

Sustainable business practices also contribute to the well-being of employees and guests, creating a positive and supportive environment. By focusing on sustainability, hotels can attract eco-conscious travelers, meet regulatory requirements, and achieve better business outcomes.

Meeting Guest Expectations with Sustainable Practices

Guest expectations are evolving, with more travelers seeking eco-friendly and sustainable accommodations. By meeting these expectations, hotels can enhance guest satisfaction and loyalty. Sustainable practices, such as reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste, and promoting local culture, play a crucial role in meeting guest expectations.

By focusing on sustainability, hotels can differentiate themselves in a competitive market, attract more guests, and achieve better business outcomes. Sustainable practices also contribute to the overall guest experience, creating a positive and memorable stay.

Expanding Facilities to Enhance Guest Experience

Expanding facilities to include sustainable features can significantly enhance the guest experience. These features may include green spaces, energy-efficient systems, waste reduction programs, and eco-friendly amenities. By expanding facilities to include sustainable features, hotels can improve their environmental performance, enhance guest satisfaction, and achieve better business outcomes.

Expanding facilities also provides opportunities for innovation and creativity, allowing hotels to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. By focusing on sustainability, hotels can create unique and memorable experiences for guests, attract eco-conscious travelers, and achieve better business outcomes.

Achieving Comprehensive Sustainability

Achieving comprehensive sustainability requires a holistic approach that considers all aspects of hotel operations. This approach includes energy efficiency measures, waste reduction strategies, ethical sourcing, community engagement, and continuous improvement. By adopting a holistic approach to sustainability, hotels can achieve better environmental, social, and economic outcomes.

Comprehensive sustainability also requires collaboration and partnership with stakeholders, including employees, guests, suppliers, and the local community. By working together, hotels can achieve their sustainability goals, enhance their reputation, and achieve better business outcomes.

Enhancing Guest Satisfaction with Sustainable Practices

Guest satisfaction is a critical factor in the success of any hotel. By adopting sustainable practices, hotels can enhance guest satisfaction and loyalty. Sustainable practices, such as reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste, and promoting local culture, play a crucial role in enhancing guest satisfaction.

By focusing on sustainability, hotels can create a positive and memorable experience for guests, attract more travelers, and achieve better business outcomes. Sustainable practices also contribute to the overall guest experience, creating a positive and supportive environment.

Achieving Long-Term Success with Sustainability

Sustainability is essential for achieving long-term success in the hospitality industry. By adopting sustainable practices, hotels can reduce their environmental impact, enhance their reputation, and improve their financial performance. Sustainable practices also contribute to the well-being of employees and guests, creating a positive and supportive environment.

By focusing on sustainability, hotels can attract eco-conscious travelers, meet regulatory requirements, and achieve better business outcomes. Sustainable practices also provide opportunities for innovation and creativity, allowing hotels to differentiate themselves in a competitive market.

Meeting Regulatory Requirements with Sustainable Practices

Meeting regulatory requirements is essential for the success of any hotel. By adopting sustainable practices, hotels can ensure compliance with environmental regulations, enhance their reputation, and achieve better business outcomes. Sustainable practices, such as energy efficiency measures, waste reduction strategies, and ethical sourcing, play a crucial role in meeting regulatory requirements.

By focusing on sustainability, hotels can create a positive and supportive environment, attract more guests, and achieve better business outcomes. Sustainable practices also contribute to the overall guest experience, creating a positive and memorable stay.

Enhancing Marketability with Sustainable Practices

Sustainable practices enhance the marketability of hotels, attracting eco-conscious travelers and improving overall business performance. By adopting sustainable practices, hotels can differentiate themselves in a competitive market, attract more guests, and achieve better business outcomes.

Sustainable practices also contribute to the overall guest experience, creating a positive and memorable stay. By focusing on sustainability, hotels can enhance their reputation, meet regulatory requirements, and achieve long-term success.

Achieving Financial Success with Sustainability

Sustainability is essential for achieving financial success in the hospitality industry. By adopting sustainable practices, hotels can reduce their environmental impact, enhance their reputation, and improve their financial performance. Sustainable practices also contribute to the well-being of employees and guests, creating a positive and supportive environment.

By focusing on sustainability, hotels can attract eco-conscious travelers, meet regulatory requirements, and achieve better business outcomes. Sustainable practices also provide opportunities for innovation and creativity, allowing hotels to differentiate themselves in a competitive market.

---

Further Reading

• Sustainable Building Data - 2050 Materials

• Leed Certification - Learn All About Leed Rating System

• Well Building Standard / A 5-Minute Guide

• Sustainable Design Consultants

• Well Building Standards And Well Consultants - All You Need To Know

• Sustainable Hotels In The UK- Independently Owned

• Best New Hotels Resorts Using Biophilic Design Interiors

• The Aficionados On Sustainability At Independent Hotels

• Sustainable Country Estate Hotels UK

• Sustainable Hotels In The UK - Independently Owned

• Posts in Hospitality

---

best examples of independent sustainable hotels UK — biofilico wellness interiors

A review of some of the most sustainable independently owned hotels in the UK focusing on these sustainable concepts:

• energy efficiency & renewable energy

• local sourcing & responsible supply chains

• eco-friendly products & materials

• enhanced biodiversity & biophilic design

• waste reduction & recycling

• circular economy principles

• health & wellness

• ethical business practices

---

The Scarlet Hotel - a sustainable hotel concept UK

eco sanctuary hotel

Located on the cliffs of Cornwall, the 37-key Scarlet is an eco sanctuary that overlooks the Atlantic, offering guests a chance to reconnect with a natural lifestyle.

circular design hotel

The building was constructed using Circular Economy principles, meaning reclaimed materials that can be reused or recycled at their end of life, such as the wooden frame, copper cladding and aluminium roof structure.

hotel energy efficiency

Rather than air conditioning, natural ventilation strategies are used to cool the interiors in summer, rooftops are lined with sea thrift to stimulate biodiversity and electricity is from 100% renewable sources.

Low-energy LED lights with motion sensors reduce unnecessary energy expenditure, the indoor pool is heated by a solar system, heating is courtesy of a biomass boiler and grey or waste water is collected from showers and baths to flush the toilets.

sustainable hotel waste management

Bathroom amenities are sourced from local artisans, the wasteful packaging of an in-room tea tray is done away with in favor of room service upon request and each room booking includes a £5 donation to Surfers Against Sewage to help protect the British coastline (a cause that Biofilico also supports).

sustainable hotel food menu

There is a tangible sense of authenticity to this hotel’s commitment to the environment. So it’s no surprise to find a food concept that is based around seasonal ingredients, sustainable seafood and wines, slow-aged steaks.. it aligns perfectly with the overall stance on sustainability here.

sustainable hotel wellness

In terms of wellbeing, there is an eco spa inspired by Ayurvedic treatments with an outdoor natural reed pool, a clifftop wooden sauna, a meditation space and endless ‘blue nature’ views of the Atlantic.

Spa therapies happen in lantern-lit tented spaces, concluding in a cocoon pod for a moment of contemplative relaxation. Mind-body wellness classes on offer include various forms of yoga and tai chi; with surfing available out front when the waves are doing their thing!

https://www.scarlethotel.co.uk/

---

The Green House Hotel - a sustainable hotel UK

sustainable hotel certifications

Billed as the greenest hotel in the UK, The Green House knew where it was headed right from the start and was able to line itself up for BREEAM green building accreditation as well as integrating an ISO 14001 compliant environmental management system and joining the Considerate Hoteliers association. In other words, they meant business from Day 1!

sustainable hotel renewable energy

This boutique hotel of just 32-rooms harnesses the power of the sun to heat its water, reduces energy consumption with energy-efficient lighting throughout, EV charging points, and generates electricity onsite via a Combined Heat and Power (What is CHP?) unit. The thermal envelope of the building was improved with additional cavity wall insulation, roofing insulation, double glazing windows, and high-performance window seals to prevent heat loss / cool air drafts.

sustainable hotel supply chain

Their procurement policy and approach to materials use is impressively considered, from local craftsmen making their furniture from storm-felled timber, to naturally fire retardant (chemical-free) wool carpets in the bedrooms, FSC certified wallpaper made using vegetable inks and eco-friendly, metal-free mattresses.

sustainable hotel waste policy

Waste oil from the kitchen is made into biofuel, coffee beans and food waste are composted for use in gardens, and coffee grounds are repurposed to grow mushrooms, showcasing a commitment to reducing waste and sustainable practices. The restaurant menu is based around seasonal, local, and organic ingredients while alcohol is locally sourced from around the UK.

sustainable hotel operations

Sustainable hotel operations focus around aligning staff behind the environmental policy with ongoing training and rewards for new ideas, recycled toilet roll, eco cleaning products that are free from toxic substances, pesticide free landscaping and a comprehensive waste management system that starts with the procurement process - by asking questions before purchasing products, they team are able to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill.

The Green House Hotel's sustainable operations contribute to the global effort towards responsible tourism.

https://www.thegreenhousehotel.co.uk/environment/

---

Saorsa 1875 - a sustainable vegan hotel concept in scotland

a vegan hotel concept

This 11-room property in Pitlochry, Scotland was established in 2018 in a building constructed in 1875 and set out to become the UK's first 100% vegan hotel, “designed for vegans, vegetarians and the plant-curious” to be precise.

Interiors play off a bohemian, eclectic vibe with individually styled rooms created more of a home from home atmosphere than a formal chain hotel.

Toiletries, cleaning products and furnishings are 100% vegan, avoiding leathers and. animal-testing in particular.

The food menu is completely plant-based focusing on not just local and seasonal but foraged ingredients too, combined with craft beers and a wine list ‘inspired by the region'.

an ethical. hotel with values

As a business they are aligned with the Good Business Charter (see the small business version here) meaning they are assessed for paying staff a real. living wage fair hours and contracts, employee wellbeing and representation, diversity and inclusion, environmental responsibility, paying fair tax, commitment to customers, ethical. sourcing and prompt payment.

https://saorsahotel.com/

---

Whatley Manor a sustainable cotswolds hotel

Whatley Manor in the Cotswolds has pledged to reduce its carbon footprint and reach Net Zero carbon emissions by 2028, equating to a reduction of 90% from their 2019 data, as well as Net Zero emissions from their supply chain by 2035. Commitments made publicly in this way help to keep a business on track and increase accountability, so are to be commended. These efforts contribute to a more sustainable future by supporting eco-friendly practices and initiatives.

sustainable hotel accreditations awards

Set amongst 12-acres of gardens, the hotel has a Bronze certification from Earthcheck, has a Green Michelin star for sustainable gastronomy in its renowned dining room, and regularly picks up awards as one of the UK’s most eco-friendly luxury hotels.

sustainable hotel energy efficiency

The hotel. runs on 100% renewable energy and removed gas from its kitchens to cook on induction heat only (more. efficient), a new Boiler Management System helps with optimum energy efficiency for heating and hot water needs, LED lighting uses 75% less energy than. the previous lighting set-up and six EV charging stations are offered to guests in the parking area.

sustainable hotel guest rooms

Eliminating single-use plastic is now an established first step for most environmentally conscious hotels, at least in the front of house operations - doing so in the kitchens is far more of a challenge. As part of their eco-friendly practices to reduce waste and promote sustainability, Whatley Manor only change bed linens and towels upon request, have opted for ceramic amenity bottles, compostable coffee pods, in-room recycling bins, digital newspapers for guest use and reusable water bottles.

‘reuse recycle repair' in a sustainable hotel

Not ones to do things by halves, Whatley Manor established their own on-site recycling centre with a glass crusher as part of their commitment to sustainable practices. All food waste is segregated and turned into compost whenever possible, while general waste was reduced by 30% after benchmarking took place in 2019.

nature, organic and biodiversity at a sustainable hotel

Organically grown fruit and vegetables dominate in the hotel kitchen, with a kitchen garden and on-site greenhouses, four beehives, minimal pesticide use, planting schemes to encourage biodiverse natural habits for insects and birds, bio char is used to enhance the soil and organic manure serves as fertilizer. These sustainable initiatives significantly reduce the hotel's environmental impact.

https://www.whatleymanor.com/sustainability-2021/

---

---

Sustainable country estate hotels UK

biofilico hotel sustainability consultants review the most sustainable country estate hotels in the uk focusing on core themes such as

• energy & water efficiency

• local sourcing policy

• building and interior materials

• waste reduction, recycling & single-use plastics

• biodiversity & biophilia

• health & wellness

Read on to find out what some of the best examples of sustainable UK hotels in the countryside are doing in terms of sustainability.

---

Thyme - a nature inspired UK hotel in a conservation area

Thyme is an independent hotel in a restored 31-bedroom manor house on a privately owned farm in the Cotswolds, with a spin-off business of botanically inspired products marketed under the brand name Bertioli.

The central concept here is nature, providing guests with a myriad of ways to connect with and be in nature during their stay (a concept known as biophilia) on this carefully restored, historic estate located within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) with water meadows that have been named a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Around the estate guests will find a Barn restaurant, the Baa Bar, Swan pub, a cookery school, the Meadow Spa and an event space.

An ‘English countryside with a contemporary twist’ style pervades the interiors with their nature-inspired colour palettes and botanical prints combined with a restrained use of the latest technology where required.

In terms of sustainability, a number of energy efficiency measures include enhanced ventilation and insulation measures, as well as on-site heat pumps and boreholes, taking full advantage of what the land offers them. A chlorine-free, spring water swimming pool meanwhile has a high-tech filtration system to provide a more natural swimming experience for guests.

In the food and beverage outlets, ingredients are responsibly sourced and seasonal, there is also a vegetable garden, herb bed and orchard on the estate providing the foundation of what is used in the kitchens.

Decorative flowers used around the manor’s interiors are sourced from around the UK, rather than being imported from the giant producer countries such as Holland, Colombia and Kenya.

Additionally a supplier code of conduct, or Rules of Engagement document, reportedly ensures a minimum of “sustainable standards, transparency, inclusivity & fairness, and product excellence” from businesses in their supply chain.

In hotel operations, commitment has been made to removing single-use plastics as well as composting and recycling, with the aim to achieve zero waste kitchen operations eventually.

As a hotel, Thyme doesn’t shout about its sustainability yet thanks to its nature-inspired brand positioning, a respect for the environment is clearly a vital part of the business’s future success.

Thyme is a member of 1% For The Planet, supports the conservation efforts of Tusk in Africa and is advised on sustainable meadow management by Plantlife to ensure the estate becomes a haven for wildlife.

https://www.thyme.co.uk/sustainability

---

The Wild Rabbit - a sustainable hotel UK

Billed as a modern British inn, this independent hotel is part of the Daylesford Farm estate, one of the leading sustainable and organic farms in the UK, owned by Lord and Lady Bamford.

Refurbishment works in 2013 used traditional building techniques, local craftsmen and local materials to deliver a high-end concept that is at once rustic and contemporary thanks to Lady Bamford’s architects of choice for all ofher Daylesford projects around the world and biophilic design experts - Spencer Fung Architects.

In both the dining room and bedrooms, we find plenty of exposed stone and aged oak ceiling beams, one-off furniture pieces and fine detailing. Wattle and daub panelling was restored and re-rendered while original beams and joists were exposed and given a new lease of life after the previous countryside pub context.

Roofing was insulated with pure sheep’s wool from the Daylesford estate to improve thermal performance and reducing energy expenditure, while introducing a natural, non-toxic material into the building, just as would have been done several hundred years ago.

The Wild Rabbit runs on renewable power, there are over 1800 solar panels around the farm in total, electric vehicle charging points are provided, low energy lighting has been used throughout the property and a set of recycling bins are standard in each waste collection area.

In the kitchen, no surprises perhaps to find locally sourced, seasonal food on offer with many of the ingredients coming directly from the Daylesford farm, making this an ideal ‘0km’ solution.

Bathrooms feature the distinctive green bottles of the Bamford Bath & Body collection, made with naturally sourced and in many cases organically certified ingredients. These products can also be found at the eco-luxury 1 Hotel spas around the USA.

No sustainability report available online.

https://thewildrabbit.co.uk/

---

Fritton Lake Hotel & Members Club - a green hotel experience

Fritton Lake Hotel & Members Club is part of the Somerleyton Estate, owned by Lord and Lady Somerleyton, who are on a mission to rewild this corner of East Anglia in collaboration with other landowners under the collective moniker of WildEast.

Farmland here is gradually being restored to self-management, ensuring it is home to free-roaming deer, cattle, water buffalo, sheep, ponies and a plethora of birds.

A 16th century clubhouse with restaurant and rooms is joined by a series of cabins and holiday cottages tucked away around the serene lake. On-site ‘wildstock’ is made up of both wild and farmed grazing animals. playing a vital role in re-engineering the land, as nature intended.

By way of a waste reduction plan, Fritton works with suppliers to reduce unnecessary packaging while a local food waste recycler turns waste into energy. Food miles are kept to a minimum as the bulk of ingredients used in the kitchen are from the Somerleyton Estate grounds, with harder to source delicacies coming from local artisans.

After an energy audit back in 2018, tenergy sourcing was switched to renewable energy providers, LED lights were introduced and ongoing energy monitoring has provided valuable real time data to assist with managing efficiencies.

In terms of guest health and fitness, there are plenty of on-site activities such as wild swimming in the lake, trail running, cycling and even one of our own Biofit designed eco-friendly gyms with a group fitness studio.

https://www.frittonlake.co.uk/

---

Heckfield Place - a sustainable countryside hotel

A decade in the planning, Heckfield Place is a 400-acre estate in Hampshire with a main building that dates back to the 1760s. Today it offers a high-end, sustainable hotel experience inspired by traditional values rather than sustainability being its defining characteristic.

Biomass boilers burn wood pellets from sustainable sources to heat the building and water for showers; additional energy from the grid comes from renewable sources; motion-sensors and LED bulbs reduce the energy requirements of lighting. Water meanwhile is taken from an on-site borehole and rainwater is collected for use around the estate, rather than drawing from the mains.

Various natural materials are said to have been sourced locally such as rush mats and headboards - no mention is made of the myriad other building and interior fit-out materials in that particular slice of the procurement strategy however.

Natural ingredients dominate in the spa and this connection. with nature is perhaps where Heckfield Place hits its highest notes in fact.

In addition to. single-use plastic-free bedrooms, extensive waste-reduction strategies in the kitchens include making preserves and cordials from excess fruit, as would have been done in the past, with anything that can’t be used going to compost for the ‘living soil’ that forms a central part of the hotel’s biodynamic farm concept.

Regenerative farming techniques are a commitment, requiring detailed knowledge of the local soil conditions, solar calendars and faith in traditional methods that shy away from fertilizers completely. in favour. of compost, manure and. ‘herbal remedies’ The result is an organic farm with its own dairy, seven greenhouses, a rotating mix of crops, British saddleback pigs, hens, bees and fruit orchards.

Future projects include the addition of solar tiles on the roof for energy production, a windmill and an off-grid community of ‘tiny houses’ as well as ongoing tree propagation and. planting initiatives.

https://www.heckfieldplace.com/.

---

The Victoria, Holkham - a green country estate hotel uk

The Victoria hotel within the Holkham Estate, owned by the Earl of Leicester, located on the Norfolk coast, is made up of two buildings with ten rooms in each.

The setting is the “most pioneering and sustainable rural estate” that has received a Gold Award from Green Tourism every year since 2016 and is regularly references as one of the finest examples of estate conservation in the UK, so the omens were always good for their on-site hotel.

sustainable hotel energy

Heating is courtesy of a biomass boiler fuelled by their own woodchip, from their sustainably managed woodland. A 100-acre solar farm was built back in 2014 in a first step towards becoming what they intend to be a carbon neutral estate by 2040.

There are also ground source heat pump energy units and air source heat pumps on the grounds. In 2021 Holkham undertook two carbon audits covering both the leisure and agriculture components of the estate’s activities.

Working at this level as part of a hotel sustainability strategy, is a far greater commitment than merely buying recycled toilet paper or going digital at reception, it requires long-term planning and expert consultancy services.

green hotel kitchen ingredients

Ingredients are sourced either on-site (such as venison, beef and lamb) or from within a 50 mile radius of the estate, this type of local procurement policy is nothing new of course but it has become increasingly less common in a world where avocados can be flown in from Peru all year round. Making this type of commitment means following the seasons, and reducing the impact of food miles further along the supply chain.

Green Hotel waste management

One of the central tenets of the Holkham sustainability strategy is waste reduction. They are set on closing the loop on compostables with the help of a local recycling supplier who turn it into compost suitable for agriculture.

A target of a 10% reduction in non-recycled waste each year for the next decade shows yet again their long-term vision for reducing environmental impact both on the estate as a whole and at their sustainable hotel The Victoria. No surprises therefore to see a prominent recycling bin strategy in place for visitors to do their bit whilst on the estate.

https://www.holkham.co.uk/about-us/wonder/

---

Sustainable Boutique Hotel Brands UK

our hotel sustainability consultant perspective on the eco friendly hotel chains and boutique hotels leading the way in their sustainability efforts - from social responsibility, to environmental awareness and a focus on guest wellness

good hotels - a socially responsible hotel in london

The Good Hotels are a people-oriented brand of boutique hotels on what looks to be a genuine, founder-led mission to do good and make the world a better place through the medium of real estate, hospitality and social uplift.

The mini group currently just about fits into the ‘hotel chains UK’ category although they have three hotel locations, of which two are in Guatemala (Guatemala City and Antigua), the third is a floating platform hotel located in London that was previously a pop-up in Amsterdam before being shipped across to the Royal Victoria dock in East London.

As a social business, 100% of profits are pumped into community projects, from kids education to training locals who might otherwise not find a way into the hospitality industry. Their Good Training program involves working with local authorities to identify individuals who have been in long-term unemployment and providing them with several months of hospitality training leading to potential job opportunities at a network of partner hotels.

By repurposing derelict buildings they minimize their environmental impact, as new build construction has far higher embodied carbon that a refurb, provided the refurb. takes into consideration long-term energy saving measures such as Passive design to ensure a tight building envelope.

In Guatemala, the properties feature locally crafted textiles, joinery an organic amenities while in London there is a clear Dutch design influence - clean, crisp, unfussy but with plenty of personality too.

The focus is on natural, durable, and repurposed materials, meaning all kitchen ingredients are locally sourced for example. Clearly in Guatemala the two properties are surrounded by worthy causes, artisanal crafts and traditional makers. The transition to a premium London hotel concept from that starting point was always going to be interesting to watch.

Bedrooms in London do not offer a mini-bar or TV instead focusing on communal social areas, this reduced both their initial Capex costs on the IT and ongoing operational energy consumption. By way of ‘compensation’, each night spent in the property helps fun a week of education for a child in Guatemala via their Good Global Foundation (GGF), which supports social causes all around the world such as Niños de Guatemala, a foundation co-founded in 2007 by Marten Dresen, the founder of the Good Hotel.

This raises an interesting question around guest expectations in terms of the in-room facilities, their hotel pricing strategy and the role of pre-arrival, check-in and in-room communications to ensure guests are aware of the ‘give & take’ scenario on offer here. We imagine these three elements have to be closely coordinated right from the start, even from the marketing strategy that needs to tap into a certain target audience of travellers with a social conscience.

https://goodhotel.co/london/do-good

---

room2 hometels - a truly sustainable hotel in london

Room2 is a relative newcomer to the UK boutique hotel scene with locations in Chiswick, Hammersmith, and Southampton on the south coast with a stated expansion strategy of 5,000 keys under lease or management by 2030. The first of these new properties will include Belfast (2022), Liverpool (2023) and Fulham (2024) making them one of the sustainable hotel chains to watch in the UK over the next few years.

The brand is part of the Lamington Group, a family owned business with over 50 years of history as a real estate investor, developer and operator with over 14,000m2 of real estate across its portfolio.

This background information is crucial to understanding what comes next in terms of their extensive hotel sustainability strategy efforts - Room2 is part of a wider organization that includes residential development, residential letting, a serviced apartment operations business and a Coworking concept. 

Having committed to achieving Net Zero by 2030 for Scope 1 & 2 emissions, the Lamington Group began their sustainability strategy by establishing a baseline of their Greenhouse Gas emissions (GHG), switching to renewable energy sources, integrating sustainability into operational decisions, implementing energy efficiency programs in existing properties and committing to Net Zero whole life carbon - net zero in terms of operations and embodied carbon. 

A lot of resources and expertise has clearly gone into this to align with London Energy Transformation Initiative (LETI) and the UK Green Building Council Net Zero Carbon Buildings Framework, making the effort all the more admirable. A dedicated 2-woman sustainability team is supported by a Green Team including the Managing Director and Finance Director (the brothers Godwin at the helm of the company), with external consultants including Elements on Net Zero Building standards, Climate Partner on carbon offsets and Verco on assessment and reduction of embodied carbon in their development projects.

At property level, we see a rarity in the boutique hotel chains - a brand that has a sustainability strategy covering an impressive range of key concepts from energy, to water, food waste, biophilia / biodiversity, support for local communities and a local procurement policy.

Energy demand for example is met by renewables such as solar, wind and hydro, while ‘lab rooms’ in each property monitor energy use, air quality and water usage in detail to provide data on possible untapped efficiencies. Carbon offsets come from a bamboo project in Nicaragua while low carbon and circular materials are given priority in the build and fit-out of each property. 

Locally sourced, plant-based food options are always on offer and Biophilic design brings the outside world in to connect guests to nature while improving the indoor air quality at the same time. This is boosted by a green roof, herb garden and an apiary at Room2 Chiswick for example.

Perhaps the only component missing from the Room2 hotel sustainability strategy at present is a piece addressing health and wellbeing of guests and staff but kudos to their team for this level of commitment nonetheless, they are leading from the front.

https://room2.com/sustainability/

---

Zetter group - sustainable design hotels london

The Zetter Group are London based boutique hotel mini-group with three properties in the portfolio made up of a five-floor hotel in London’s Clerkenwell district, an additional townhouse in the same area and a third property in the more sedate Marylebone.

Interiors are unashamedly eclectic, verging on the maximalist at times, with wallpaper, artworks, carpets and textiles combining to create visually dramatic spaces. Underneath all of this though, lies a group that has made real headway on its sustainability policies.

An internal ‘green team’ meets regularly to drive the hotel sustainability agenda forward. Past wins include the roll-out of a energy loop system that reduces overall energy usage; natural light and passive ventilation via one hotels’ central atrium with a skylight'; occupancy detection in-room to reduce waste energy expenditure while not in use; paper and glass recycling; eco-friendly bathroom amenities;a reduction in packaging in their supply chain (food deliveries); a local procurement policy (food, amenities, textiles).

In terms of certifications, the Zetter Group is a member of the Sustainable Restaurant Association and Green Tourism.

At least according to their website, they are also making conscious efforts to foster staff wellbeing as part of their hotel sustainability strategy and continue to explore new opportunities to improve, reducing their environmental impact along the way.

No sustainability report available online.

https://thezetter.com/sustainability/

---

Inhabit - health and wellness hotels london

Inhabit Hotels is a self-proclaimed ‘wellness oriented’ and environmentally conscious hotel group in London with properties in Paddington and Bayswater. The brand is working towards B Corp certification and clearly identified a gap in the market for boutique size hotels for the mindfulness generation of plant-based, yoga-practicing, spa-loving self-caring guest profile… and anyone who even vaguely identifies with that lifestyle presumably!

The Paddington site occupies six townhouses with 88 guest rooms while the larger Bayswater property has 158 rooms and suites. Their stated aim is to optimize the mental and physical wellness of their guests via a combination of sustainable interior design one the one hand and health-oriented guest experiences on the other.

Interiors have furniture made by locally based social enterprise Goldfinger and a soft, calming colour palette with British textiles and a loosely Scandi aesthetic using plenty of natural wood. This is essentially a mid-market product in the £150-£250 average price per night range.

Features such as a ‘peaceful library’ are a combination of clever communications and a concept-led approach looking for any and every opportunity to enhance the guest experience, even if most guests will likely not have the time or inclination to. browse through the bookshelves for reading material during their stay.

Other features of note include a pet-friendly policy, the option to choose the type of aromatherapy scent in-room and on-site fitness / yoga rooms combined with a comprehensive activity schedule covering various forms of yoga and meditation.

Plant-based, meat-free and seasonal cuisine comes courtesy of a partnership with Yeotown, a health and wellness retreat in Devon, ensuring an F&B concept fully in line with the hotel’s stance on sustainability and wellbeing.

No sustainability strategy or annual sustainability report available online.

https://www.inhabithotels.com/

---

The Pig group - sustainable hotels and restaurants uk

The Pig Hotel and Restaurant Group currently has eight countryside ‘restaurants with rooms’ in locations across England in Somerset, Dorset, Devon, Kent, Cornwall, West Sussex and two locations in Hampshire, each united by their concept of ‘gardener, forager and chef’.

Just like the roadside inns of old, the foundation stone of hospitality at each Pig site is essentially the “simple and honest” philosophy behind their F&B offer, with an organic kitchen garden providing as much of the reared or grown ingredients as possible, with everything else sourced from within a 25-mile radius to create their ‘25 Mile Menu’ concept.

In total, these gardens produce around 17 tons of food each year that would otherwise have arrived by road, increasing their transport related environmental footprint considerably. Fish is from sources approved by the Marine Conservation Society and foragers help bring in other local, harder to find wild ingredients. Several of the restaurants are members of the Sustainable Restaurant Association.

All garden waste is composted, while glass, paper, plastic, and cooking oil are dutifully recycled. Glass bottled water is supplied by BELU, a social enterprise, and all single-use plastics have been removed from their bars. Bedroom soaps are wrapped in paper and used aluminium coffee capsules are recycled.

These small details cumulatively reflect a conscious approach to sustainability that may not follow any strict set of guidelines or certification system but is meaningful and important work nonetheless.

Interior hotel furnishings are mostly antique and upcycled,while lightbulbs have been updated to LED to reduce energy consumption.

No sustainability strategy or annual sustainability report available online.

https://www.thepighotel.com/about-us/

---

Treehouse - biophilic design hotels uk

Treehouse hotels are (for now at least) a UK-centric sustainable hotel brand within Barry Sternlicht’s SH Hotels & Resorts Group, after his massive success with the 1 Hotels eco-luxury hotel concept this looks to be a smaller scale concept that shares many of the same sustainability values, albeit with more of a nostalgic twist towards traditional values, coziness and craftsmanship. The launch location was a 95-room property in London’s Marylebone with Manchester and Miami opening in 2023.

Sustainability is subtly interwoven into the fabric of the guest experience, from biophilic design in the restaurants to collaborations with meditation teachers and vegetarian chefs, eco-friendly homeware companies and advice on eco picnics in the park.

Treehouse Hotels have adopted a ‘soft’ sustainability stance in other words, one that takes it as a given that ‘this is how things should simply be done’ and assuming their guests will have an affinity with this lifestyle, rather than it being a defining part of the brand’s identity that needs to be driven home with communications.

That said, there is on-site composting, a recycling program, triple filtered water taps in the corridors and a reduction in single use plastics in evidence as well as an abundance of air-purifying plants, natural materials such as wood and organic cotton sheets in the bedrooms.

This does leave some questions unanswered from a sustainability strategy perspective of course (energy efficiency? carbon emissions? wellness initiatives?) but all of that can come with time as the group expands and matures.

No sustainability strategy or annual sustainability report available online.

https://www.treehousehotels.com/london

---

Further Reading

• Visit Us

• Know More About Us

• Becoming A Biophilic Design And Healthy Building Consultant

• ESG Real Estate Consultancy In London, UK

• Mental Wellbeing Clinic Design - The Soke, London

• Sustainable Hotels In The Uk - Independently Owned

• The Aficionados On Sustainability At Independent Hotels

• Wellbeing Strategy & Wellness Interior Design

• Sustainable Building Data - 2050 Materials

• Biophilic Design Consultant & Interior Designers

• Wellness Interior Design Consultants

the aficionados on sustainability at independent hotels

how are independent boutique hotels in europe integrating sustainability?

matt morley talks to the founder of the aficionados, iain ainsworth, to find out…

---

In this episode I’m in London talking to boutique hotel expert Iain Ainsworth - Founder of The Aficionados a reference for travel culture and lifestyle that promotes neat edits of hotels, creators and craftsmen as well as its sister company White Line Hotels a marketing network for hoteliers. 

He was Executive VP of Design Hotels from 2004-2008 and Regional Director of Sales and Marketing for Concorde Hotels from 2000-2004 so he’s a hospitality insider through and through. 

I took the opportunity to take the temperature on sustainability in his corner of the industry today, so we cover everything from eco-friendly hotel amenities, sustainability certifications for hotels, the landscape hotel concept and various examples of sustainability initiatives from his member hotels in the Alps. 

---

---

---

FULL TRANSCRIPT COUTESY OF OTTER.AI - EXCUSE ANY TYPOS

---

interview with the aficionados

Matt Morley

Iain, thanks for joining us today. I'd like to start at a fairly high level overview. You've been in this game for a while you're an insider. How do you see sustainability taking shape or evolving amongst the hotels you're working with? Is it more of an informal organic process or are you seeing more structure coming into play?

natural sustainability in hotels

Iain Ainsworth

Hi, Matt, I think for me, the most overwhelming point is that for all of our hotels, it's a very natural process, it's part of their DNA. When we talked to them initially, 12 years ago about sustainability, they were like, well, what's new? It's always been part of what we do. And we only work with privately owned hotels - 99% of them are indigenous, from that village, from the valley, mountain or town.

So for them, it's pretty natural that they sourced locally, beside the fact that they knew Bert down the road, who was the timber maker, it's very natural thing.

greenwashing in hotels

Green labeling is not something that they they need. Sure, it's not just a marketing process, it does need some structure coming into it. And that's where we try and guide them and filter out what what they do, because for them, it's part of running a daily hotel, and they don't necessarily realize that what they're doing is remarkable.

You know, even for the older hotels, where you might think, to be up to the new standards is quite difficult. You can see the next generation are applying the newest technologies, but they're also going back to how their grandparents originally built the hotels.

renewable energy for hotels

In the Alps, for example, using renewable energy is pretty normal now, if you look at South Tyrol, most hotels have zero carbon emissions, because they are using a grid fostered by the local government. So a lot of them are very, very green, I hate the word green. But this just put them into into that philosophy, if you like, I just think it's a welcome blast of energy and enthusiasm that they have for being sustainable - without necessarily calling it ‘sustainability’.

hotel sustainability certifications

It is difficult within the hotel industry, as you know, and also between countries, to get certification is there's not one mandated policy that you can follow when you're building a new hotel. Equally, if you're renovating, it's very hard to tick all of the boxes. And there is no one's one central template for this.

sustainable hotel architecture

But on the other hand, I think that's quite good. Because then you get personally into innovation and new ideas. The other striking point with our hotels is the lead on architecture and design, again, maximizing the use of light, maximizing the conservation of heat during the winter. And also keeping cool in the summer.

Architects, particularly in the alpine regions are very up to date on sustainable approaches - again, it's part of the DNA of that of that region.

sustainability as part of the hotel culture

Matt Morley

It's an interesting point, isn't it? Because it's almost as if there are certain areas of Europe and in particular, in this case, geographies where you are heavily present with your member hotels, where it's almost part of the culture where it doesn't need necessarily to be introduced from outside and then sort of imposed from above, which is what we're seeing in places like London, and other huge cities where it hasn't been historically part of the local culture but now they're playing catch up, whereas someone like South Tyrol, it's really part of the fabric of society.

sustainable supply chains for hotels

Iain Ainsworth

Yeah, I mean, there's certain aspects they still need to look at like, like, like how do you minimalize the impact of what you're doing because at the end of the day, it's still tourism but I think when your family owned the farm down the road, your other family member is the hotel architect. Your other family are producing hotel linen which is a very natural and sustainable product, even the timber they use in the bedrooms, they will save sleep better because it's holistic and antibacterial.

natural health and wellness in hotels

So you have this natural health and wellness element as part of the building. For me, you know, it's very easy to talk about, you know, sustainability in Lisbon. But it's a very different approach there, you need to dig deeper because, unfortunately, some countries or larger urbanized hubs, when they go for the local furniture, it's not necessarily locals, they just take the design and then source it from further afield.

But we've got an old palace in Lisbon, it was the hardest thing finding an architect that would understand conservation, and reinvigorating the hotel history rather than wiping over it.

certification systems for sustainable hotels

Matt Morley

So you mentioned the idea of sustainability certifications. And we do see a number of them out there at the moment, as you say, it feels like perhaps there isn't quite one dominant leader that works across territories. Each has a slightly different twist, I noticed, but a lot of them are covering, broadly the same bases.

So for example, Son Brull in Mallorca - one of your member hotels - they've gone for Travelife certification, from your perspective, hotel marketing, do you think there's value in going for something like that?

sustainable hotel restaurant ingredients

Iain Ainsworth

Yeah, Son Brull, when they created the hotel some 15 years ago, it was a very sustainable approach to it, it's been a farm for nearly 300 years. So it was a monastery as well, and it came with 40 hectares of land. So as a hotel, you can either sell the land, leave it over to other farmers, or you can take it as part of your concept.

So in this case ‘farm to table’ dining for them is pretty natural as well, because they've got the farm on their doorstep. So they've always been a pioneer of doing things proper, I guess, they're Islanders, and they saw a lot of destruction of the island.

Also, you know, the movement of locals from farming into hospitality, which sort of saddened that one of the owners and a particular and he said, No, this is not right, we need to employ the farming community around us.

So they did it from their own hearts, as it were, but I mean, having certification from Travelife, for example, the gold certification, it's a good tickbox because again, you start to ask yourself, Okay, what am I missing? What else can I do and like all of the certifications, of course, you know, they're covering a very broad spectrum of hotel typologie and sizes.

The smaller ones, invariably are not going to be able to tick every box. But equally, they know, the larger ones are not going to be able to offer fresh lemons from their own orchard in the morning.

Compared to a hotel just saying that they’re green and eco, and sustainable., having a certification means for me that they are following strict sustainability guidelines. And they're fulfilling as many items on the checklist as possible.

It’s also an ongoing process, which I like, because it's not just okay, we've done an initiative, tick the box, close it. You know, it's an ongoing thing. And I think that, for me, is what certification is about. It's ongoing. It's always changing. It's always evolving. Technology, of course, is helping this in terms of collecting data from hotel operations.

sustainable hotel amenities

Matt Morley

One idea that we see a lot of hotels adopting is sustainable amenities, removing single use plastic bottles. You've written about various brands offering that type of product, from plant-based botanicals and organics and naturals - what’s going on there from your view?

Iain Ainsworth

Yeah, it was the straws and now we're going for plastic free amenities. And, you know, the elimination of single use plastics throughout the hotel, whether it's the amenity bottle, or mineral water bottles. The advantage small hotels have is that they can go to a local supplier again, and source materials from them.

I mean, the best elements for me are those pioneers like Susanna Kaufman, who have always used natural products. You know, she's very cautious about minimalist, use of plastic refill bottles.

We see new products emerging all in sort of a block form As soaps, shampoos, conditioners, so they have no plastic and no glass involved at all. And I think that's the way forward but it can also be a question of cost so we didn't want to mandate a certain type of hotel amenity and say they all have to be plastic free, because there are many unique opportunities out there with local suppliers. And also to keep that relationship with the small pharmaceutical companies that are making products for the hotels.

single use plastics in hotels

You can also look at stores like Muji, if you want bamboo slippers, sometimes you can draw inspiration from a High Street store that's gone sustainable, because it's still very hard as a small hotel to get a supply of slippers, that are environmentally friendly - people seem to feel they need these things for the one or two nights in a hotel!

The same goes for the hotel toothbrush, you know, you can find a bamboo option now. The problem is sometimes certain countries demand an array of amenities for their star categorization. Which is crazy for me because you know, I don't need a toothbrush in every room.

eco cleaning hotel operations

Also in into the next stage of this equation, which are the chemicals used in cleaning the rooms. Because after COVID, you know, during COVID There was this huge euphoria for chemicals instead of looking at natural ways of cleaning a room because this is equally as important for me as what's in the bathroom.

local procurement policy in hotels

Matt Morley

A hotelier does have an easy option and it is going to one of these giant hotel supply companies that offer bulk branded bottles that have not much to do with the real brand, it's all just licensed and an easy solution for hotel slippers, bathrobes, amenities etc.

So in a sense, the hotels that are seeking out the individual brands, there's a lot of work behind that there's a lot of extra legwork. Right, it's an it's more of an appeal process than the sort of the easy path. Right. So it's sometimes maybe not evident the guests that what's gone into that.

Iain Ainsworth

Yeah, and I still think some some guests judge your hotel on a brand that they know. Whereas I'm, you know, myself and I would say most of our subscribers that travel into our hotels are more intrigued by finding the local brands and then go and buy it, because you want to take it with you. So I think I think there's opportunity for hotel amenity distribution to continue changing.

Of course, you can buy big brands like Ren - a fantastic sustainable product, and you can buy them from a wholesaler. So there are alternatives there. But if I find somebody that's making a product 20 kilometers down the road, I'm gonna have my first conversation with them as a hotelier!

Health and wellness in Alpine hotels

Matt Morley

You mentioned the idea of the Alps as being quite strongly associated for many of us with with a healthy lifestyle. Someone like the Hotel Arlberg, Lech- they bill themselves as a wellness retreat, exactly what does that mean?

Iain Ainsworth

Well, for them they're a third generation of family, so grandmother's still involved daily, in the business. So their parents run the hotel today, they're keen to refurbish and upgrade. And it's always been changing, he started as cafe and then had a couple of rooms and, and today's become what it is, a fabulous Alpine retreat.

They always had a spa, but when they started to rethink about the spa, they looked really at how do you bring in the Alps inside? So that's where they created the blueprint of Alpine healthy living, and they started to look at the sound, fresh air, nature, it's about the products.

And one thing they noticed in the older rooms, there was always a scent of pine. And this was coming from the wardrobes actually. So they said, Okay, where can we get this old pine from that, you know, is well sourced, and they found a guy in the next village that salvages pine from the older Alpine houses.

Then they looked at the pigments of the local colors. So they started with colors and said, Okay, what are the colors that we want to be in there? But then they looked at, okay, how do you create this moss green color? Well, surely there's a herbal pigment growing up in the mountains that we could use. So then they created natural paints, which they bought into their spa as well. So I mean, spa for them was the starting point. But it's actually extended now throughout the whole hotel.

So there's a wellness concept throughout the whole hotel. They use chemical free paints that are made locally. They also use natural stone, which comes from about 20 kilometers away from the hotel. And they've also then started to look at the treatments that they have and which oils you can use. So they're looking at the old monasteries in the area and what therapeutic oils that they use derive from nature, of course.

And just working with architects very carefully and producers like we were talking about Susanna Kaufman of you how you can give me that total one off wellness experience, which is what I want As the consumer, but also with the added bonus of it being healthy and sustainable, and an ethos behind there that gives you that sort of joy for the Alps and healthy living.

the landscape hotel concept

Matt Morley

What about the Juvet property in Norway, what do you consider goes into a ‘landscape hotel’ concept today?

Iain Ainsworth

I mean, the Juvet landscape hotel was probably the one of the first ones that I encountered back in 2009. And for me, it's this total immersion into nature, but with no disruption to nature itself. So the word you know, the landscape hotel was the pioneer of the owner that had this dream of how can I create a living pods if you like or hotel without disrupting even the moss that grows on the rocks.

So their first thought was, Okay, what if we put these pods on stilts, and the stilts actually mimic the birch tree stem, so you sort of get this beautiful visual integration between the trees, trunks, and the rods that go into the into the rocks. And by doing that, then you can create a platform, which is what a lot of indigenous tribes did in wilderness areas, you know, is it's quite logical, actually to get the elevated from the ground, but it enables the flora and fauna that you fall in love with to continue to thrive and in fact, thrive even more, because you're giving a new habitat to grow along and thing.

I think the landscape hotels, for me, the biggest thing about them is the view. And so they tend to have huge panoramic windows. There's a lot of gimmicks coming in, you know, we're a landscape hotel, you know, and they put things up in trees and things like that. So I think you have to be very careful, you don't become a gimmick.

Matt Morley

And obviously also written about the green philosophy at Hotel Buhelwirt in South Tyrol. Clearly one of your favorite regions, and as I'm discovering, quite a hotbed for case studies in hotel sustainability and wellbeing. So in that instance, how did the architects pull through a concept of sustainability touching on things like construction and energy use?

energy use and building biology in a hotel

Iain Ainsworth

The architects, two brothers, and their real philosophy is environmental building biology. And so they're quite famous in South Tyrol for their work integrating a building into its natural habitat. In this case, it was an old guesthouse, which the owners had inherited from their parents, and they wanted to add to this but by doing so, in a way that, you know, is sensitive to their environment. And so they found the perfect architecture to do that.

You’ve got this very vernacular structure that sticks out of the rock side. And it has a purpose to it as well. I mean, they have always had energy efficiency on their minds, not only because of the cost of it, but to have as least impact as possible. Again, being in South Tyrol is great, because you know, the energy is hydroelectric - power plants provide a lot of the local renewable energy, and without any co2 emissions, so they've got that backup there.

But they've also invested a lot into technology into meter reading, they can see from their app, how much energy they are using each day, how many guests they have, how much energy is being consumed in the rooms? What do we do about pool heating? What do we do about heating in general areas? Again, technology is helping them reduce their carbon footprint.

plastic-free kitchens in hotel operations

But I have to say they are natural enthusiasts for their environment that they live in. And again, they have the farm down the road, they're completely organic, they went a step further in the kitchen, banning all plastic in the kitchen. And when we start to think about our own practices at home, you know, with plastic containers food wrap, we use it to preserve food.

So again, they've gone back to pickling, how do you conserve, how did our grandparents conserve food without using refrigeration, or plastics, so they've taken it to a whole new level. And I would say cutting out plastic in the kitchen is even a bigger challenge than say, in the bathroom amenities, because there is a replacement already there.

Matt Morley

Really fascinating examples. I feel like we could go on for an hour or two more, but I'm going to be respectful of your time - what's your preferred medium for communications?

Iain Ainsworth

Obviously, we're on LinkedIn as a company, and we're also on Instagram. But I'm quite old fashioned. I'd like to hear from people. So anybody wants to pop as me an email, maybe you can put a link in for that love to hear from people, contributors, experiences.

And they say, you know, we as a company as well, we're still learning how to harness all the sustainability aspects that we have 93 hotels now and about 110 makers.

So we're always looking for feedback, suggestions, ideas, of how we can better inform people of what what's going on.

CONTACT @ THEAFICIONADOS . COM

Circular Interior Design: Sustainable Restaurant Object Space Place — Biofilico Wellness Interiors

Sustainable restaurant design with David Chenery

〰️

circular economy

〰️

restorative restaurants

〰️

Sustainable restaurant design with David Chenery 〰️ circular economy 〰️ restorative restaurants 〰️

Welcome to episode 55 of the Green & Healthy Places podcast in which we discuss the themes of wellbeing and sustainability in real estate and hospitality.

I’m your host, Matt Morley, founder of Biofilico healthy buildings, and in this episode I’m in the UK talking to David Chenery of Object Space Place, a sustainable interiors company specialising in hospitality environments. The construction industry plays a crucial role in implementing circular design principles to minimize waste and improve sustainability.

Our conversation covers the Restorative Design Framework that David has developed with his business partner over the past five years, the role of circular economy principles in restaurant design, designing out waste and lowering embodied carbon while still delivering memorable customer experiences, as well as the pros and cons of sustainability assessments for restaurant spaces.

David is an interior architect by trade, a considered thinker and someone with a rapidly growing client list that may suggest an inflection point in the UK restaurant industry’s relationship with sustainability.

---

View on Zencastr

---

Matt Morley

David, welcome to the show. It could be really useful for anyone considering a similar shift in their own career to understand how you integrated sustainability into your restaurant interior design work? What was that process of going from being ‘just’ an interior architect / designer into someone with a real focus on sustainable restaurant interiors?

A transition to sustainable restaurant interior design

David Chenery

It’s certainly not that there was one particular lightbulb moment, it definitely was more of a gradual process, slowly feeling more and more uneasy and more and more uncertain. We’ve been going for 11 years now and we started out designing a lot of hospitality.

Then over the years, even though we always tried to do things with integrity, we cared how we treated people we were working with and about designing things with proper materials, avoiding materials on a red list and so on but we never really got to grips with what ‘good’ restaurant interior design would actually look like. This gradual process involved adopting a circular approach to emphasize flexibility, sustainability, and efficiency.

We started working with the Sustainable Restaurant Association about five or six years ago, and we just really started interrogating those questions and started thinking, What does a good restaurant mean?

what is restorative restaurant design?

Andrew Stephen, the CEO of the SRA at the time, threw out a question to us - he’d always wondered what a restorative restaurant would look like, how would that actually be designed? And whilst he gave it to us as a throwaway question, for us, it really stuck, to the point whereby we developed a whole design framework, what we called “the restorative design framework” around trying to solve that. The concept of a circular building, like The Circular Building by Arup in London, influenced our thinking on sustainable construction practices and the ease of disassembly for recycling and reuse.

In the first instance, we boiled it down really simple - to design places that give more than they take. So I guess the point to emphasize there is that we were overwhelmed by the complexity and not sure what this sustainability thing was, and is a SKA rating enough? Is BREEAM enough?

Matt Morley

The idea of almost being overwhelmed with the whole theme of sustainability, and perhaps not quite knowing where to start is something I hear from clients as well, they’re sort of looking for guidance. And by the time someone picks up the phone, I sense something has nudged them in that direction. And it might not be the core tenet of their brand, But there’s enough out there, enough prompts to make them think about how they can integrate sustainability into whatever they’re doing, for example, a boutique hotel group. What about in your sector of restaurant design, would you say the same as true there? Or are there more restaurants that have sustainability at their heart of their proposition?

a shift to sustainability in the UK restaurant sector

David Chenery

Well, I mean, it's one of the reasons we now call ourselves sustainable hospitality designers to begin with, we kind of shied away from that a little bit. Because if you stick your hand up and say you are sustainable, then you know, you're putting yourself in the firing line. And ultimately, you know, once you dig into it, and start pulling all those threads around sustainability, you realize that if you do anything in this country, the UK, you immediately have a carbon footprint, six to 10 times higher than anywhere else in the world.

So can you ever say what you're doing is sustainable. But we realized that to begin with, we had to educate our clients and bring sustainability into our projects. But the commercial reality is that building stuff is hard at the best of times. And unless someone comes to you with that sustainability agenda, it is very often going to get kicked to the side as you go along.

So we had to sort of stick our hands up and say we are focused on sustainable hospitality design, which therefore means we now attract the people that want to pursue that agenda. So I guess it's hard because we have pushed ourselves to live in this bubble. But I definitely think there's been a huge shift in understanding and even more so in in the last year or so.

We're now being approached by restaurant groups who don't make big claims around sustainability. But they might have, you know, 5 to 10 restaurants already and they're aware of as they continue to grow they want to do that in a way that is going to minimize their environmental impact. And they don't quite know how, like you suggest, but they're trying to find some people to help make it happen.

Matt Morley

So I see similarities there between, say, the office sector and hotels, where it's about a soft sustainability, so it's not absolutely defining them, like, say, a hard sustainability brand that's completely committed to the cause. And yet, they know that they need to make baby steps in that direction. But then that raises the question of, where does it start and end if it is a sustainable design that you're creating for a restaurant?

And clearly there are these rating systems, whether it's BREEAM for a new build, or SKA that you mentioned in the past around your interiors on the restaurant work. Did you initially rely on those certification systems more and step away from them over time?

sustainable restaurant design certifications

David Chenery

I think what we’ve realized when we created our own design framework, so that the assessment systems are rigorous, independent, and they make a lot of sense. And we had to learn to work in BREEAM, how to work in the SKA system, definitely.

It’s only through doing that, that you might start to see some of the the flaws, or some of the shortcuts or the kind of bureaucracy associated with them. If you have a one-off independent restaurant somewhere in the country, that won’t have a huge budget for such assessments so they’re just going to run it all directly themselves.

That’s a very different approach than trying to do something for someone like a Wagamama who’s got hundreds of outlets around around the country and has processes in teams and all this stuff.

So our framework acknowledges that. And we really will tailor it to the client we’re working with. Ultimately, we want it to be as sustainable as possible. But we know that different clients will come with a different level of ambition. So we might work with a chef like Chantelle Nicholson for Apricity, where she wanted to push as hard as she could, you know, we were really trialing the circular economy ideas in terms of the materials, we were measuring the embodied carbon to get that as low as we could, the landlord Grosvenor, were really behind us pushing that as hard as they could. Reducing construction waste by incorporating circular design principles and a lifecycle approach is crucial in this context.

So there was a lot of energy in that same direction whereas we might work with Gail’s bakeries, you know, who are beautiful, and they care about sustainability. And they care about the social side and the environmental. And they’re also doing about 30 sites a year. So there is a commercial reality to the speed and the cost of doing those.

So we are working as hard as we can within that commercial framework to make the best decisions. And that’s to be honest, what we quite enjoy is that we are constantly being challenged not to just live in an ideal dream world. But actually some of it is very, very ambitious and we can set a new benchmark in sustainability and sometimes it’s more about raising the bar slightly.

measuring sustainability in restaurant interior design

So I think assessments are really interesting when it comes to the measurement, this is really what we’re talking about the measurement of sustainability. I think there’s some interesting nuances to dive into there. The first one we’ve realized is that quantitative measurement, the idea of numbers almost always comes down to carbon, because that’s the thing we can reduce down to a number, the bigger the scale of the organization we’re dealing with, the more you need numbers, because it’s just really hard for everyone to grasp the qualitative, multifaceted layer of sustainability without numbers. So it’s, it’s not really a good enough representation.

Optimizing production processes for energy efficiency and waste reduction is crucial in the circular economy model, which seeks to create sustainable practices that allow for resource reuse and minimize environmental impact.

But carbon is really, really useful as a tool. You know, I always say that carbon is to sustainability, what calories are to a healthy diet, you know, I could eat 1000 calories a day, and I would lose weight. But if it was all chocolate, and I did no exercise, that is not a healthy diet. In the same way, carbon is an oversimplification of all the other stuff around you know, VOCs Indoor Air Quality and the social side of things which we can go into as well.

But if the planet managed to get down to dealing with that carbon, we’d be in a lot better place. So I do think that that’s thing with the conservative side. And then the other is you’ve mentioned with the assessment systems A good thing about those are that they are more qualitative They have much more, you know, many more features within facets within them that measure things like the air quality or looking at glare or their staff wellbeing, all these sorts of things. So that’s the way we sort of broke those two things down, when it comes to measurement, I think it’s kind of worth understanding the differences of those.

Matt Morley

And then to some point in that process, you felt comfortable enough to set your own working model of how you go about integrating these various themes and topics into something that you put your name to.

developing principles and a process for designing sustainable restaurant interiors

David Chenery

Absolutely. What we realized was, firstly, when we started looking at the assessment systems at the beginning, we think, how do we make this a sustainable design? What does that even mean? If we get SKA gold or BREEAM Excellent? And then coming across the circular economy and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation website in particular. That’s why I can’t get happy with this idea is because it’s still within the scope of one project. And we need to understand the ripple effects and the circular flows of everything else, and how stuff goes together.

So our framework then becomes about that, because we see that as a bigger understanding of the material construction design ecosystem. Using sustainable materials to adhere to circular design principles is crucial in this context. So I think that’s just a more intelligent place to start as well for us because it then leads us to ask a lot of different questions. And what we start to look at a design approach that is slightly different, based on a set of principles.

the problem with sustainability assessment systems

The danger of an assessment system is you end up with this huge checklist and a really complex spreadsheets. And you know, you’ve got to get however many points out of however many other points, and then you start getting tactical about what decisions you’re making, right? Because you got to get to the certain levels. And if we just get a couple more, we can get up to silver, and it becomes a different weird game, that clearly is better than doing nothing. But it’s not engaging with the core idea.

You know, and I think for us, we wanted to step outside of that and think, Well, if we really want to make a difference here, how are we going to do it. And the other realization is that it’s all very good saying, let’s get the lowest embodied carbon we can. But if you sit down with a blank piece of paper and try and work out let’s just design something low carbon it’s almost impossible, you can’t design to that it’s meaningless.

So we need a design strategy. The unsustainable extraction and consumption of raw materials contribute to environmental degradation and resource scarcity. And that’s why circular economy is so good for us. We’ve managed to prove that if we design out waste and pollution, if we design to keep materials in use for as long as possible, if we get reclaimed chairs and tables, if we sand the existing floorboards, if we expose the walls, if we use the right type of paint, if we cut the staircase up and make it into a wall cladding, that guess what we managed to reduce the embodied carbon of that of typical fit out by 45%, just by doing that for a high end restaurant in central London.

So that connection for us was kind of a key moment of saying, well, we can design this way we have this strategy of designing out waste, of thinking about principles. But the point in developing the framework was, it gives us a way of working. And I think without that, that’s where so many designers feel a bit lost, because we don’t know how to interrogate those decisions and ask enough questions.

If someone can give you an EPD, that says, this has three kilograms of CO2, and another one says this one’s got four. If that’s all you know, then you’re just going to pick the three, even if it comes with all kinds of other compromises on the sustainability, or huge water usage, or all kinds of all kinds of stuff. So that’s why we had to develop a framework and we certainly don’t have all the answers, I wouldn’t sit here and say, we have it all down. The point of having the framework and the point of us applying that to these projects is that we are learning every day.

consultants for a sustainable restaurant interior project

Matt Morley

Maybe that opens discussion then around how far your role goes in terms of the design of the space? Typically when I’m looking at say an entire healthy building project, whether it’s new build construction or refurbishment, I’m often on a call as one of 10+ different consultants from a QS, to MEP, to project management, lifts and so on… but with a restaurant are you operating effectively as a One Stop solution or are there others that you might bring into the mix with you?

David Chenery

Again, it’s a question of scale - a one off independent restaurant with a focused brief, lean budget, then yes we might do most of that sustainability work.

If we didn’t have a sustainability consultant, we often with a social enterprise called Bio Regional who can do assessments for carbon, SKA or bespoke metrics that we’re developing around the circular economy.

And then on the MEP side, we are definitely not MEP consultants. So particularly operational carbon, that energy efficiency piece, we would look to partner with someone like MESH (net zero carbon building performance) then a landlord or or contractor may have their own people they will bring along, but on smaller projects, what we’ll find is you will tend to have specific conversations with, say, the HVAC contractor, or the plumber, or the electrician, to see what we can do with them to get things better. And if it goes slightly a notch above that, then we will have an MEP consultant, similar to ourselves, who will give input on that. The significant climate impact associated with the production of office furniture and the potential reduction in emissions through circular economy practices like refurbishment and repair should also be considered.

But that does really depend on the scale of a project and your average high street restaurant of 3000 square foot is probably unlikely to have that person. So you know, that’s probably where we develop our knowledge, particularly often they’re contractors or installers within the industry, that can have a similar mindset to us.

If I go into my garden here, and I pick a pear off the tree, I don’t need a carbon lifecycle assessment or a sustainability consultant to tell me that that’s a good choice. You know, there are some straightforward, common sense principles that we can apply.

The Pareto principle applies suggests 80% of the impact will come from 20% of the decision. So you know, if we’re looking at the water systems, we know even just from looking at the SKA systems that if they are the same 5-7 things you do in terms of water management, such as low flow taps, and WCs, leak detection systems, you do those right and you’ll get most of the impact anyway.

Circular design principles and end-of-life in a sustainable restaurant

Matt Morley

In the past I’ve studied green and health building certifications from LEED, to WELL, FITWEL, and so on following the checklist. And then at some point, you just start, you just start freestyling without needing to hold on to the sides of pool, let’s put it that way. Then you start to combine elements or leave certain bits out, knowing that you’re getting 20% of the value.

So what about end-of-life phase with your restaurant designs? How do your clients manage that?

David Chenery

Well, I guess since we’ve been focused on doing this, fortunately, nothing we’ve designed has had to be taken apart. So you have to say that that’s theoretical in a way and it’s just a really important acknowledgement as a designer that most restaurant fit outs will last about five years whether it’s because the concept has failed or they want to make changes or simply update the look and feel of the space. Even the average building gets fitted out 20 to 30 times in its lifetime.

So, yeah, we haven’t had to be challenged on that yet. But we are aware when we’re designing, you know, whether it’s a counter going in or material finishes on the floor? How is this going to come out again? Can we use particular materials that are in as useful a format as possible? Can we avoid cutting tiles?

Last week, I was looking into an issue for Gail’s, the difference between a timber floor and a tiled floor. Now at end of life, those both become quite difficult. You know, we spent two hours talking to a tile manufacturer about how realistic is it actually that we’re going to get these tiles up, and then once that tile adhesive goes down, are those coming up in pieces, or are they going to be able to be reused? Again, if you can get them up whole, they’re still going to have all the adhesive on the back. And it’s going to be such a labor intensive process to take that off, it’s probably unrealistic to use that for anything other than aggregate, which isn’t really good enough.

We need to as an industry find a better solution for that timber again. Likewise, if we’re looking at a herringbone floor, now that can stay in longer, you can re-sand that, you can refinish it, you can re-stain it, it’s going to have a lower carbon footprint, if you take the carbon sequestration into account and having carbon negative score effectively. But again, you’re not because that has to be glued down in a commercial setting, you have to glue that timber down no matter what you do, because it’s going to move over time. So therefore, you’re not going to be able to take that floor up, even if that’s in 30 years time, for example, without and be able to reuse those elements quite easily. So some of those questions I don’t have the answer to at all.

In many cases, if you do something of quality, you’re maximizing the chance it can stay in there for a long time. But yeah, it’s it is a challenge, I really do think it is, you know, we need to understand how materials come apart. Again, we need to design for disassembly, so that elements can be taken apart using mechanical fixings wherever we can, rather than glue - that is a general principle. But you know, in, in commercial or hygienic environments, like restaurants where we’re talking about cleaning down every day that that can be quite difficult as we come up against standard best practices. Additionally, it's crucial to regenerate natural systems while addressing the tension between resource extraction and environmental protection.

Matt Morley

I think that sort of transparency and honesty is, is really the only position any of us in this game can take because you know, we’re all always learning, but simply doing the best we possibly can at any given time. Right? And as long as it’s a sort of circular but forward motion, we’re heading in the right direction.

restaurant design trends and sustainability

What about restaurant design in general, when you look at what’s happening in the industry, particularly in London, but around the UK, Are you broadly optimistic of where it’s going?

David Chenery

I try and kind of cultivate quite a stoic mindset but we will do everything we can to make it better. I think that depends on which side of the bed I’ve got up in the morning. I think I’m nervous how everyone has rebounded straight back into growth mode After COVID. I think people are just trying to build things. And I don’t know if we’ve necessarily learned the lessons we could have done. But I’m happy that initiatives like Net Zero Now and the Zero Carbon Forum are getting more traction. I’m happy that, you know, the SRA is, is getting good traction with its members.

Right now, I honestly believe it’s probably like a five year problem. And I don’t think you can be running your business, for the benefit of your stakeholders and shareholders. with them front of mind, if you’re not tackling this issue of sustainability, because you’re just not building a resilient business,

So if you don’t dial back in and actually look at your business model and look at your supply chain, and look at how you run your buildings and your energy usage and all of that stuff, you’re just going to have a tougher and tougher time in the years to come. I don’t believe The whole industry has got that and agrees with that. I think there are a number of people who still want to think it’s business as usual but maybe a little bit more green. - we need to move faster than that! By incorporating circular design principles, the restaurant industry can promote a more sustainable future, significantly reducing environmental impact and fostering a healthier planet and society.

David Chenery's current sustainable restaurant interior design projects

Matt Morley

What have you got going on at the moment? What do you have in your pipeline?

David Chenery

We’re certainly fully booked until September at the moment, which is great. I mean, there’s Gail’s - a great client for us. And we’re doing a number of new sites for them - we just opened one in Epping recently. These projects aim to be resource efficient by minimizing environmental impact and maximizing the longevity and adaptability of materials. There’s actually a hair salon project we’re working on as well.

We’ve been approached by some other people like L’Oreal to help them apply our framework to a hair salon. So there’s a flagship I’m working on with them at the moment, which I’m not actually allowed to talk about But that will be quite high profile in central London. And then alongside that, we’ve got some some independent restaurants, we’ve got a six tenant food hall we’re working on.

But also we’re doing a number of more consultancy pieces now, as you can probably imagine. So some of the larger groups, were talking to them about how we can bring these principles and this framework to their sites, whether we end up designing them ourselves or not. So that’s quite an interesting conversation, how we can educate internal property teams on carbon literacy or this disjunction between net zero targets and daily operations.

Matt Morley

Very good. Well, it sounds really positive. So people are looking to follow along or see your news and updates. What’s your chosen format?

David Chenery

Yeah, LinkedIn is definitely best. That’s definitely the place to find me.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidchenery-sustainablehospitalitydesign/

What is Circular Design?

Definition and Importance of Circular Design

Principles of Circular Design

Benefits of Circular Design in Interior Design

Applying Circular Design Principles

Flexible Spaces for Adaptability and Reuse

What is Circular Economy in regenerative Real Estate?

How do we define circular economy?

The built environment is one of many man-made systems that typically operates as a linear process - it involves the extraction, use of, and eventual disposal of resources.

Sustainability experts describe this as an unnatural model as it accumulates immense amounts of waste and contributes to the negative impacts of the built environment on our planet.

This is in contrast to nature itself, a closed loop system that does not produce any waste.

For example, it has been found that 25-30% of the waste generated in the EU comes from manufacturing and construction waste, and 10% of global CO2 emissions come from steel and cement production (Acharya). 

This makes steel and cement as the two main building raw materials to watch when it comes to reducing embodied carbon in a new construction and a transition towards more circular economy aims and alternative business models that consider economic growth in the context of a company’s greenhouse gas emissions and social impact, for example.

The circular economy real estate response

A circular economy perspective applied to a high-waste and high-growth system like the built environment can have meaningful impacts for all stakeholders involved through waste reduction and increased value of assets.

The overall goal of a circular economy approach to real estate is to manage the components of the built environment by keeping them in the loop, rather than producing waste for landfill, this means materials and products retain some of their intrinsic value for longer (Acharya). 

3 Principles of Circular Economy: The Ellen Macarthur Foundation

The Ellen Macarthur Foundation is a leader in this realm, promoting the ideas and concepts around the circular economy, aiming to create an economic system that is better for both people and planet.

The foundation has designated three main principles of a circular economy that are considered the backbone of the concept:

1. eliminate waste and pollution

2. circulate products and materials

3. regenerate nature (Circular)

eliminate waste in circular economy real estate

The first principle, to eliminate waste and pollution works to override the current “take-make-waste” system that our economy recklessly deploys without much concern for future generations. The waste that is produced from the built environment commonly ends up in landfills and those resources are lost, depleting our global stores.

In order to instate this first principle in real estate particularly therefore, buildings must first be designed to reduce and eliminate waste at all stages of their lifecycle, while shifting from a linear system to a circular economy system using circular design products.

This includes strategies such as applying life cycle assessments to understand materials at end of life, and choosing materials and products that can be reused, repaired, remanufactured, and recycled (Circular). 

See our dedicated HEALTHY MATERIALS page here.

circulate products and materials in circular economy real estate

The second principle, to keep products and materials in the loop, focuses on keeping them in use in the highest value form for as long as possible. This retains the value and usability of those materials while reducing extraction of additional natural resources from the planet.

Such products and materials can be kept in circulation through reuse, repair, remanufacturing, or recycling. In addition, biodegradable materials that often naturally decompose can be cycled back into the earth and circulated into the biological cycle.

To promote this strategy, designers should consider the ability for a product or material to be integrated into a cycle at end of life. For example, if wooden furniture was designed with biodegradable glues and paints rather than materials such as screws, they could be entirely biodegradable and more easily circulated (Circular). 

regenerating nature in circular economy real estate

The third and final principle, to regenerate nature, is implemented through the conversion to a circular economy and the promotion of natural processes and cycles.

Through this principle, the extraction of resources should be shifted to their regeneration, which will in turn provide more space for nature as less land is required to source virgin materials.

This can be implemented within the built environment through careful material selection and use. If we shift the priority to not only doing less harm to the environment but improving it, nature can be regenerated through the incorporation of a circular economy and principles (Circular).

Building-Level Circular Economy

The circular economy can be applied at a building level through the consideration of its entire ecosystem and lifecycle. The principles can be implemented in the design, sourcing, construction, operations, renewal, disassembly, and repurposing processes. The goal is to integrate all building phases with one another and plan for a closed loop cycle from the onset of design (Ellen)

The design process should include operation and performance strategies and incorporate energy-efficient approaches. Modularity and adaptability should be a focus and can include strategies such as selecting efficient resources that are easily reusable, durable, and flexible. Construction can aid in efficiencies through strategies such as modular building or off-site construction to reduce waste production (Ellen).

In the in-use phase, buildings should incorporate self-sufficient methods to mimic a living system, such as water capture and reuse systems, or a net positive solar production and storage system. We can look to natural systems for a guide, and whenever possible buildings should utilize and create self-fulfilling cycles (Ellen).

End of life is often the most forgotten yet one of the most important factors of a circular economy. Buildings must be designed for longevity, which can come in the form of durability, flexibility, or adaptability. Structures should have the capability to easily shift to another use if the initial use is no longer desired through disassembly and reconfiguration or shifted off-site for another use.

The goal at end of life is to maintain all building products and materials at their highest value possible through reuse. If this is not possible, as with the case of many organic materials, they can biodegrade back into the earth and close the loop, giving back to the earth from which they were extracted (Ellen).

Cradle to Cradle Certification in real estate

The Cradle to Cradle Certified Product Standard is a global standard that recognizes products and materials that are circular, responsibly made, and healthy. This standard is a great starting point for material decision-making as it provides materials that align with circular economy goals. 

The certified materials have been proven to be safe for both humans and the environment, and at end of life are guaranteed available for reuse without further pollution or contamination. When selecting materials, searching for this certification is a great indicator for a smart choice. 

In addition, as recommended by the Cradle to Cradle website, Materiom is an open source platform that provides locally-sourced biological material “recipes”. 

Integration with Sustainable Building Certification Systems

Sustainable building certification standards such as LEED, BREEAM, WELL, and the Living Building Challenge (LBC) encourage the use of circular economy concepts and products throughout a building’s design process.

These certification systems can provide guidance and direction for project teams looking for ways to implement circular economy principles into their real estate developments. 

Each of the various standards encourage the use of water retention / reuse and rainwater management, forming closed-loop water cycles within buildings. 

In particular LEED, BREEAM, and the LBC mention the importance of producing and using renewable energy and the incorporation of passive design, encouraging circular building design through self-sufficient energy strategies, whenever possible - most obviously in new build real estate construction.

In addition, each of these standards has a focus on choosing sustainable building materials that provide transparency and reduce waste opportunities at end of life.

Finally, each standard requires waste reduction and management throughout the design process and through smart material sourcing. 

The LBC also contains the “Place” Petal, whose goal is to encourage ecological regeneration, connecting to the third principle of the circular economy as outlined above.

The WELL standard also touches some circular economy approaches through the mention of hazardous waste management and reduction, material transparency, and carbon disclosures and reduction. 

Examples of Circular Design in Real Estate

There are many buildings in existence that utilize circular design principles. As highlighted by the Ellen Macarthur foundation, examples such as Villa Welpeloo (above) designed by Superuse Studios and Arup’s circular building pilot project (see video earlier in this article) both provide inspiration.

The Villa Welpeloo project focused on building locally with salvaged materials, highlighting the impacts of reusing resources that would otherwise become waste. Within the project, Superuse was able to include 60% locally recovered materials, which is now a strategy utilized in 90% of the company’s projects (Ellen).

In Arup’s circular building pilot project, they focused on creating a building that could easily be disassembled and re-fabricated if needed, designing for adaptability, and using the structure as a functioning material bank.

In addition, each material was carefully selected with a transparency and health focus instated from the beginning. Using BIM technology, the project team tagged each material with information on its properties and reuse capabilities to make collaboration across disciplines easier and to ensure the incorporation of the circular design principles (Ellen). 

References

Acharya, Devni, et al. 2018, From Principles to Practices: First Steps towards a Circular Built Environment , Arup, The Ellen Macarthur Foundation, 3XN GXN. Accessed 9 June 2022. 

“Circular Economy Introduction.” Ellen MacArthur Foundation, https://ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/topics/circular-economy-introduction/overview  

Ellen Macarthur Foundation, 2019, Circular Economy in Cities. Accessed 9 June 2022. 

Zimmann, Rainer, et al. ARUP, The Circular Economy in the Built Environment. 

BREEAM Standard 

LEED Standard

Living Building Challenge

WELL v2 Standard

---

Further Reading

• Posts In Real Estate

• Real Estate ESG Frameworks

• Sustainable Real Estate In Urban Regeneration With Jonny Friedman

• A Guide To Green Building Certification & Healthy Building Certification

• Posts Tagged Green Buildings

• Healthy Building & Wellbeing Real Estate Consultants

• Circular Design With Soma Studio Milano

• Biophilic Design Consultant

• What Is A Healthy Building Material?

• Healthy Buildings Vs Sick Building Syndrome

• Waste Management In Green & Healthy Buildings & Interiors

• Sustainable Building Data - 2050 Materials

• Building Wellness & Sustainability With Evalore Spain

• Healthy Materials With Matter Of Stuff

• Best Examples Of Biophilic Commercial Developments

• Sustainable Boutique Hotel Brands UK

• Healthy Materials In Sustainable Interiors

• Marine-Based Circular Economy Materials

• Sustainable Textiles & Fruit-Based Bio Fabrics

• Best Examples Of Biophilic Design In Learning Environments

• Examples Of Biophilic Design Interiors Cannabis Retail Stores

• Sustainable Hotel Resort Standards, Certifications And Ecolabels

LEED Location and Transportation: Sustainable Buildings and Wellness Design Consultants

Globally, transportation accounts for 25% of total greenhouse gas emissions, making it an essential sector in which to implement reductions. LEED certification, particularly the Location and Transportation category, provides a comprehensive approach to sustainable building design and operation, encouraging environmentally responsible practices and promoting healthier, more efficient buildings. As green building consultants, a number of strategies are available in this regard, all part of a sustainable real estate development or sustainable refurbishment project.

Early decisions such as the site selection and location, or implementing a local procurement strategy will have tangible emission impacts from Day One in a sustainable real estate development, as will integrating Active Travel facilities, providing green parking facilities and tracking commuter emissions in the operational phase.

As sustainable building consultants, below we address each of these points in turn in order to provide the reader with a concise overview of the role transportation plays in the green building sector.

Choosing a Sustainable Building Location with Sensitive Land Protection

Sustainable site selection is arguably the most important decision in relation to transportation emission reductions and indeed opportunities for active travel. It also involves protecting sensitive areas such as endangered species habitats.

Although this choice is often made very early in the real estate development process, whenever possible, consideration for transportation and connectivity should at least play a part in that decision making process from a sustainable building perspective. Additionally, avoiding development on prime farmland is crucial for preserving valuable agricultural resources. Selecting a high priority site can bring both economic and environmental benefits to the surrounding community.

As outlined in the USGBC’s LEED standard / Location & Transportation category, there are several characteristics to be considered. Reusing existing infrastructure is crucial in sustainable site selection as it minimizes the need for new infrastructure and reduces environmental strain.

Primarily, consider the surrounding density and prioritise locations with diverse uses nearby, such as food retail, community centers, and other services. Building on previously developed land can offer benefits like existing infrastructure and points within the LEED criteria.

This allows people spending time in the building to have access to a variety of services nearby, within walking distance to encourage active travel instead of car use, while reducing the need for longer distance car travel.

Secondly, ‘access to quality transit’ - locating the project in a high-density area, close to multi-modal transportation options such as train, bus and bike share stations. making commuter times shorter on average, and commonly increasing public transportation uptake.

Local Sourcing & Procurement in Sustainable Buildings

Another strategy that comes early in the design process is selecting healthy building materials, products, and or machinery from local, nearby sources. Promoting more compact development can conserve land and reduce transportation emissions.

From a real estate sustainability perspective, the key is to understand the supply chain transparency of the most prominent selected materials (such as steel and concrete for buildings; or flooring, ceiling panels and wall finishes in interiors), utilize low-emission vehicles in the delivery process, and plan timely construction deliveries.

Local sourcing greatly reduces transportation emissions and should be considered early on in materiality sourcing and procurement decisions.

Healthy and sustainable building materials should therefore be selected based on those within a low-carbon system and within a close radius of the project.

Low-carbon systems can include the whole life cycle of a material and all transportation steps— as well as the incorporation of low-carbon shipping options.

In addition, within the construction phase, the just-in-time delivery method can be used, meaning the materials arrive on site when needed, not before - this helps avoid the loss or damage of resources.

A reduction in excess material use and therefore less waste production, in turn reduces the number of transportation trips needed to get materials on and off site.

Commuter Emission Regulation in sustainable buildings

During the in-use phase of a sustainable building, commuter emissions are the largest contributor to building-related transportation emissions. Choosing a neighborhood development location can significantly reduce these emissions by promoting walkability and access to public transit. The main goal is to reduce the number of people traveling to and from the building individually in petrol / diesel powered vehicles.

This can be done through the use of public transport, carpooling, or the use of electric vehicles. Promoting walkability and transport efficiency within the surrounding community is also crucial. In order to regulate and eventually reduce commuter emissions, strategies such as commuter surveys and greenhouse gas tracking are essential steps.

Commuter surveys can be implemented to better understand how employees, residents, or other building users travel to and from the site. This is the first step to understanding the impact of transportation emissions and what the largest decision-making factors are for commuter travel.

This information on transportation related greenhouse gas emissions can not only provide valuable data for real estate ESG reporting but also help guide future building site adjustments to reduce transport emissions, such as parking changes or active travel incentives.

Active Travel and Bicycle Network in Sustainable Buildings

From the transportation side of active travel, it is directly connected to the location of the building site and its connectivity, as well as business culture. The sustainable sites category in LEED encourages such practices to promote environmental and public health benefits. Neighborhood development can promote walkability and sustainable land use practices. The general goal of active travel is to increase the health and fitness level of building occupants, but it can also have impacts on transportation emissions.

If the building is located nearby various amenities, commuters and building occupants can walk or bike if they would like to go to the grocery store or get a haircut, for example. This not only increases occupant health, but also reduces transportation related carbon emissions.

In addition, active travel can be fulfilled through commuting to the site by bike or foot. In addition to location, building sites can encourage active travel through the incorporation of bike storage facilities, bike maintenance programs, and showers on-site for commuters heading to work.

Finally, company or building-wide active travel incentives, such a company-wide bike to work month competition can increase active travel participation. The culture of a company can have a large impact on commuter patterns, and active travel should be encouraged socially whenever possible.

The USGBC LEED green building standard ‘Bicycle Facilities’ credit rewards projects that promote bicycle use through locating the site entrance within 180m of a bicycle network, as well as providing short- / long-term bicycle storage and shower rooms on site.

Reduced Parking Footprint in Sustainable Buildings

To help reduce commuter-related transportation emissions, parking can be adjusted on site. Sensitive land protection is crucial in responsible land use practices, ensuring the preservation of biodiversity and ecological sites. Strategies can include limits on available parking, designated preferred parking spaces, and EV or alternative fueling stations installed on site.

Limiting parking overall will encourage different travel methods purely due to the inconvenience. In addition, parking that is available should contain designated spots for carpooling and green vehicles to further encourage reductions in commuter emissions.

In addition, parking lots should include EV charging stations to make the use of these vehicles more accessible. Also, when possible, alternative gas fueling stations can be installed on site to further discourage traditional, emission-heavy travel methods.

The Reduced Parking Footprint credit in USGBC LEED’s green building standard rewards real estate projects that deliberately limit their parking footprint, or eliminate it completely, to promote alternative transportation options. This integrates with the Electric Vehicle credit that rewards parking for EVs with dedicated charging stations.

Sustainability in Last Mile Logistics Real Estate

What is Sustainability in Last Mile Logistics?

Last mile logistics refers to the last step in a delivery process, describing the process of sorting and transportation to the doorstep of the client from a nearby warehouse or storage facility.

This delivery process is in high demand post-pandemic due to the boom in e-commerce purchases during lockdowns, making this an ideal time to assess the opportunity for integrating sustainability policies and green building strategies into the sector as a whole.  

Who delivers a sustainability strategy in last mile logistics?

The various businesses that invest in, construct, and operate the distribution centers as well as the transportation process are all key players in optimizing last mile logistics sustainability. 

A business model that includes real estate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals not only upholds a company’s civic duty but also appeals to investors with a preference for sustainable investments.

Transportation is of course a central piece within last mile logistics, and therefore must be closely monitored and optimized to reduce carbon emissions associated with the process however sustainability policies at the construction, fit-out and operations level of these distribution and storage centers should also be factored into a comprehensive sustainability strategy - as we shall see, this can often require a degree of inter-company collaboration (see Prologis as an example of this).

environment in ESG in last mile logistics real estate

From a business model perspective, a real estate ESG strategy is essential to encourage sustainability throughout a last mile logistics enterprise. In addition, investors are often motivated when ESG is integrated into a company’s values and mission statement.

The environmental focus within a last mile logistics ESG strategy can include the storage and distribution centers as well as the transportation related environmental impacts.

Commonly, last mile delivery services make use of a hub and spoke model, referring to the warehouses and distribution centers as the hubs, and the last mile delivery as the spoke of this system.

Therefore, it essential to reduce resource use and emissions associated with the construction of these facilities upfront as well as the subsequent transportation process once operational.

Measurabl is a useful software tool that can help encourage data collection and organization within a company’s ESG strategy. 

social in esg last mile logistics real estate

Social goals tend to be more universal across industry sectors as they focus on employee wellness, inclusivity, diversity, and social impact.

Within last mile logistics in particular, factors such as working hours and the optimization of driving routes should be considered to align company goals of fast deliveries to respectful working hours and employee wellness.

Online software tools such as the Brightest Platform are helpful for outlining and monitoring social performance goals within an organization. 

governance in esg last mile logistics real estate

The governance element of an ESG strategy acts as the overarching management body for a company and focuses on increased transparency and integrity.

The documentation and reporting of ESG goals, associated company risks (including climate risks), data privacy, and codes of conduct will all be included in a governance plan.

To help with the organization and monitoring of governance related ESG goals, Workiva is a useful online tool. 

Building-Level Sustainability in Last Mile Logistics

Although transportation is an essential sustainability consideration in the last mile logistic system (see below), the distribution facilities themselves should be designed to optimize carbon footprint early on.

Strategies such as intentional location choices, energy efficiency, water and waste reduction, and sustainable material use are all essential factors in a building’s carbon footprint; we address each of these in turn below.

Location in Last Mile Logistics Real Estate

The location of a distribution facility is one of the most important building factors and is also directly linked to transportation emissions - in this sense, the hub and spoke model has sustainability baked into it from the beginning as ‘spoke’ locations close to city centres help decrease overall travel times and emissions.

Facility sites can also be shared across different companies to pool resources and therefore decrease resource use. In addition, due to the generally large size of distribution centers, it is important when possible, to choose pre-developed or brownfield sites to reduce land use change impacts (“Elements”).

Energy efficiency in Last Mile Logistics Real Estate

Energy efficiency measures in warehouse and storage facilities are largely similar to other building types.

Lighting efficiency can be improved through LED bulbs and the inclusion of sensor and dimming capabilities.

Facilities that require refrigeration for storage should implement more efficient cooling technologies or utilize renewables to power them to avoid excess energy demand.

In addition, efficient machinery and lifts should be incorporated as the transferring of products is common practice and can be a large source of energy use in these facilities. 

On the exterior, the building envelope could incorporate green or cool roof technologies to lower heating demands and energy loads.

Finally, renewables such as wind or solar energy should be used whenever possible to provide a source of green electricity.

Water efficiency in Last Mile Logistics Real Estate

Water efficiency measures should be considered in both interior and exterior aspects of last mile logistics distribution centers. 

In the interior, low-flow water fixtures should be used in all sinks, plumbing, and restroom fixtures to reduce overall use. In addition, features such as dual flush toilets can be used to reduce water demand.

On the exterior, any landscaping used should be regulated by using low-water irrigation strategies. An approach known as xeriscaping incorporates local flora to reduce the need for watering and maintenance.

In addition, in wetter climates, strategies such as rainwater harvesting or capture systems can be used to collect water and divert it to other non-potable water uses on site. 

Waste management in last mile logistics real estate

Waste should be considered in all phases of the last mile logistics building cycle, as ideally all materials that go into a project can be recycled and used again, closing the loop as part of a Circular Economy. Although a perfect closed loop is hard to achieve, the mindset should be used throughout all waste-related decisions.

Waste should be diverted from the landfill whenever possible, and for the case of last-mile logistic facilities, we will focus on the construction and operations phases. 

In the construction phase, there are massive waste reduction opportunities, as a plethora of material is being brought on site and erected each day.

It is essential to avoid the damaging of materials whenever possible to reduce redundancy, and clearly labeled recycle and disposal bins should be placed on site to track and sort waste when it is produced.

Going back even further, when designing distribution facilities, strategies such as modular construction should be employed to further reduce waste throughout the manufacturing and building processes. 

Once occupied, last mile logistic facilities can implement waste reduction strategies through operations and maintenance.

Efficient, sustainable packaging for products should be implemented, and recycling and organic waste bins should be placed throughout the site to encourage employees to divert waste from the landfills. 

Green & Healthy Materials in Last Mile Logistics Real Estate

Both the exterior shell and the interior fit-out materials should be carefully selected for distribution and storage centers.

To increase project sustainability, building materials should be chosen based on factors such as durability, organic content levels, recyclability, and origin location. 

Life Cycle Assessments (LCAs) should be completed whenever possible to compare the sustainability traits of each material.

Characteristics such as bio-based materials or materials with high recycled content tend to have lower impacts throughout their life cycle. In addition, sourcing locally is a great way to reduce impacts as transportation emissions are greatly diminished. 

Durability and resiliency are equally as important, although their impacts may not be as apparent until later in a building’s life.

Replacement and repair costs are inevitable as a building ages, and choosing materials that last the test of time and are resilient to natural disasters eliminate emissions and costs associated with excessive repairs. 

Sustainable Transportation in Last Mile Logistics

Transportation is one of the most important, if not the most important factor within the last mile logistics system. Accounting for 27% of global greenhouse gas emissions, transportation is an essential aspect of reducing industry’s carbon emissions.

Within urban centers, delivery vehicles have been documented to account for over half of certain emissions, although they compromise a small fraction of total traffic vehicles. Including more eco-friendly last mile delivery strategies can improve both company sustainability and brand image (Lawton).

In addition, the rise in online shopping and the demand for delivery has skyrocketed from the start of the pandemic. Customers expecting and requesting rapid shipping times increases transportation emissions, making last mile deliveries even more detrimental to the environment.

A group of MIT researchers found that fast shipping increases carbon emissions by as much as 15% and bumps up costs as much as 68% (Lawton).

To combat transportation related emissions in last mile delivery schemes, strategies such as more efficient vehicles, routing, alternative pick-up locations, packaging, and loading can all be beneficial. The use of electric vehicles, or other means of transportation such as bicycles, drones, or even robots can be utilized to reduce emissions.

In addition, finding optimized routes for deliveries can increase efficiency and reduce miles driven, therefore lowering both costs and emissions. UPS Transport, for example, has implemented an “On-Road Integrated and Navigation” (ORION) program, that uses an algorithm to find the best route.

This technology has been found to save them around 10 million gallons of fuel and $400 million per year (Kaplan). Finally, the incorporation of centralized pick-up locations for clients can increase delivery efficiency and reduce emissions. 

Some of the often more overlooked upstream strategies related to transportation are equally important considerations for last mile logistic companies. Packaging goods more efficiently using smaller boxes in more functional shapes can allow for denser packing into trucks, and therefore decrease the number of trips needed (Lawton).

Finally, incorporating a streamlined schedule and timing for delivery vehicles to arrive at distribution sites can reduce idle time and therefore reduce excess emissions. 

Examples of sustainability in last mile logistics real estate

There are several companies connected to the last mile logistics space that have introduced sustainable strategies into their ESG business models and building sites.

Prologis, stands out from the crown as an ideal case study. This San Francisco based real estate investment trust invests in warehouses and has a strong sustainability focus, as explained in their 2020 Sustainability Report. 

They place a large emphasis on sustainable buildings and sustainable building certifications, notably using LEED as the goal for all new developed buildings.

Within their projects, as standard they implement strategies such as solar panels, cool roofs, LED lighting with motion-sensors to reduce power usage while capturing data on how the space is used, recycling collection areas, xeriscaping, and local material procurement. They also provide electric vehicle charging stations on site to encourage the use of electric vehicles.

Innovations in the pipeline at Prologis include low carbon building materials to reduce the embodied carbon footprints of carbon-intensive materials and circular building design to incorporate recycled / recyclable materials that can be disassembled at end-of-life and repurposed.

Their PARKlife concept goes even further by improving services and facilities for their staff via security, gaming areas, employee gyms, walking trails and greenery.

Green building and healthy building certifications for last mile logistics real estate

Prologis have a goal of 100% sustainably certified buildings across their global portfolio, as of year end 2020 they had 171 million sq ft of sustainably certified space with LEED, BREEAM, WELL, CASBEE, DGNB and HQE.

Their Datteln, Germany facility was the first logistics facility in Germany and the second in the EU to achieve WELL Building Standard certification.

Sources

“Elements of a Sustainable Warehouse.” Prologis, 13 July 2021, https://www.prologis.com/what-we-do/resources/elements-of-a-sustainable-warehouse. 

Kaplan, Deborah Abrams. “Ups and Amazon: A Tale of 2 Last-Mile Sustainability Strategies.” Supply Chain Dive, 15 Jan. 2019, https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/last-mile-sustainability-strategies-ups-amazon-disclosure/546005/. 

Lawton, George. “10 Strategies for More Sustainable Last-Mile Delivery.” SearchERP, TechTarget, 13 Aug. 2021, https://www.techtarget.com/searcherp/feature/10-strategies-for-more-sustainable-last-mile-delivery. 

Self Storage Sustainability: Real Estate ESG — Wellness Design Consultants

Sustainability in Self-Storage Real Estate

Within the real estate industry as a whole, the self storage industry has a relatively low environmental impact due to lower than average energy, water, and waste usage, as well as fewer people spending prolonged periods of time on site on a regular basis.

That said, there remain opportunities for forward-thinking self-storage real estate funds and development companies with an eye on ESG sustainability targets to ensure they are doing everything possible to reduce the negative environmental impacts associated with their building portfolio.

These sustainability efforts can be executed physically through self-storage building construction and interior fit-outs as well as the business’s ongoing operations; that can then be combined with a more strategic, corporate level Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) piece to complete the picture.

Sustainable Self-Storage Building Strategies

Self-storage spaces take a more nuts-and-bolts sustainability approach in comparison to some of the more occupant heavy building industries.

Nonetheless, a number of strategies from the worlds of waste, water, energy, and materials can still be applied here to help reduce environmental impact.

Waste efficiency in sustainable self-storage real estate

Waste can be reduced and managed most effectively in both the construction phase and in-use phase of self-storage buildings, no matter what their previous sustainability credentials.

Overall, the goal is to divert as much waste from landfill as possible throughout all phases of the building cycle.

During construction, it is important to reduce the damage of materials or products whenever possible to avoid excess waste.

In addition, a site waste management plan should be employed to ensure proper disposal techniques and awareness of waste when it is produced.

Building strategies that produce less waste such as modular construction can also be deployed to reduce overall waste production in the manufacturing and building processes.

In the in-use phase, self-storage facilities should offer recycled packaging materials whenever possible to encourage sustainable client habits.

In addition, there should be recycling facilities available on-site, and whenever possible, paper use should be eliminated through the use of technology in all client relations.

Water in sustainable self-storage real estate

Water efficiencies and reductions should be included in both landscaping and internal plumbing design.

In the interior, self-storage facilities tend to have minimal water use, with maybe one or two bathrooms on-site.

Although this is a relatively low impact, it is important to install low-flow fixtures and efficient plumbing in all bathrooms to reduce water use.

On the exterior and within landscaping, strategies such as xeriscaping should be implemented to reduce the amount of water necessary to upkeep the flora on-site.

In addition to lowering irrigation needs, water runoff controls and stormwater retention schemes should be incorporated when possible.

Energy in sustainable self-storage real estate

Similarly to real estate water efficiency strategies, energy efficiency should be considered both in and outside of the self-storage buildings from a real estate sustainability perspective.

On the interior, the use of efficient LED bulbs and sensor-based lighting tactics should be integrated.

In addition, HVAC systems should be optimized for efficiency to avoid unnecessary temperature control and excess heating or cooling.

On the exterior, strategies such as the implementation of renewable energy sources, most commonly rooftop or even building facade solar panels, can be very effective.

In addition, strategies such as installing green (landscaped) or white roofs can reduce energy demands as they increase cooling / reduce the urban heat island effect.

Sustainable Materials in self-storage real estate

From a real estate ESG point of view, construction and fit-out materials in a self-storage building should ideally be selected by origin location, resiliency, and recyclability to increase project sustainability.

From a holistic perspective, life cycle assessments (LCAs) and/or leveraging 3rd party certifications such as Cradle2Cradle, Declare, EPDs and HPDs, will help to determine which materials are the most sustainable for each project.

Local materials are desirable as they reduce transportation emissions, and materials that are bio-based, rapidly renewable, and contain a high recycled content tend to be the most sustainable options.

In addition, materials that are durable and have high structural resilience are beneficial as they will last longer and therefore avoid emissions and costs associated with replacements. Decisions such as what kind of flooring should be installed should be considered carefully with sustainability factors kept in mind.

ESG Corporate Strategy in self-storage real estate

From a more corporate level, real estate ESG strategies should be implemented to ensure sustainability proliferates in all aspects of a self-storage business model.

Environmental efforts should be focused on managing a company’s environmental responsibility. This includes an overall goal of conserving resources and energy and reducing waste.

To monitor these objectives, companies should utilize data collection, LCAs and impact assessments, and incorporate company-wide climate initiatives. To aid in these endeavors, companies can utilize online ESG management software tools such as Measurbl.

Social objectives focus on the employees and the social impact that a company has. The aim should be to create a safe, healthy, diverse workspace that allows employees to do the best work for customers.

To achieve these goals, companies should provide career development and training opportunities, a health and safety strategy, social engagement within the community, and even provide affordable sustainable housing opportunities for workers.

As with other ESG management strategies, various online software tools such as the Brightest Platform can be utilized to aid in social performance.

Governance strategies aim to increase company transparency and integrity through effective management plans.

Creating policies to better monitor a company such as codes of conduct, data privacy regulations, and documenting ESG goals are all beneficial. In addition, risks associated with the business should be understood, including climate risks.

Governance is essentially the oversight of all systems within a company, so it therefore can help to set guidelines, and organize and report data to increase and promote a transparent, ethical company. Online tools such as Workiva can be used to help ESG tracking and reporting.

Sustainable Building Certifications for self-storage real estate

As self-storage companies are searching for ways to improve sustainability throughout their buildings and business, implementing green building certifications can help grasp these goals.

Sustainability focused standards such as LEED and BREEAM for example, can provide specific building strategies to improve sustainability.

If a certification is desired, project teams should outline goals and align with the desired standard(s) from the onset. If certification is not the end goal, the standards can still provide valuable information and can act as guides towards greater environmental sustainability.

Examples of sustainable self-storage real estate

There are several self-storage companies that have implemented numerous sustainability strategies within their businesses. Learning from other ESG reports can provide information about precedents and guidance on what is possible within the sector.

For example, in Public Storage’s most recent sustainability report, they mention their future-thinking goals of carbon, water, waste and energy reductions. Already, they have implemented strategies such as LED lighting, solar power generation, low-water-use landscaping, battery energy storage, and high structural resilience.

In addition, Life Storage has integrated cool roofs in all of their projects, as well as using LED lighting, efficient HVAC systems, a waste management policy, and low-water irrigation systems. Their ESG report highlights these building-level environmental initiatives as well as their company-level sustainability achievements and goals.

The Importance of Sustainability in Self-Storage Facilities

Sustainability is a crucial aspect of self-storage facilities, offering a dual benefit of environmental conservation and enhanced business reputation. Self-storage facilities, like any other real estate, have a significant environmental impact. By adopting sustainable practices, these facilities can substantially reduce their carbon footprint, contributing to a healthier planet.

Moreover, sustainable self-storage facilities can attract eco-conscious customers who prioritize environmental responsibility. This not only helps in differentiating the facility from competitors but also builds a loyal customer base that values sustainability. Implementing sustainable practices can lead to cost savings through improved energy efficiency and reduced waste management expenses.

By embracing sustainability, self-storage facilities can contribute to a more sustainable future. Reducing their environmental impact not only benefits the planet but also positions the facility as a forward-thinking, responsible business in the eyes of consumers.

Sustainable Design and Operations

Sustainable design and operations are essential for self storage facilities aiming to minimize their environmental impact. Incorporating sustainable building materials, such as recycled steel and eco-friendly insulation, can significantly reduce waste and conserve natural resources. These materials not only support environmental goals but also enhance the durability and efficiency of the building.

Energy-efficient design principles, such as maximizing natural lighting and using high-quality insulation, can help reduce energy consumption and lower energy costs. Additionally, self storage facilities can implement renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, to further reduce their reliance on non-renewable energy sources and decrease their overall environmental impact.

Sustainable operations practices, such as reducing paper usage through digital administration and providing recycling facilities on-site, also contribute to a more sustainable future. By integrating these sustainable practices, self storage facilities can operate more efficiently and responsibly.

Energy Efficiency in Self Storage

Energy efficiency is a critical aspect of self storage facilities, playing a significant role in reducing energy consumption and lowering operational costs. One effective strategy is the implementation of energy-efficient LED lighting, which not only reduces energy usage but also improves lighting quality and longevity.

Energy-efficient HVAC systems are another crucial component, helping to maintain optimal indoor air quality while minimizing energy consumption. Additionally, using energy-efficient appliances and equipment throughout the facility can further reduce energy usage and operational costs.

By adopting these energy-efficient practices, self storage facilities can significantly reduce their carbon footprint. This not only contributes to a more sustainable future but also enhances the facility’s reputation as an environmentally responsible business.

Reducing Waste Through Efficient Space Management

Self storage helps improve the efficiency of storage space in a business setting. The increase in the number of apartments and businesses in town is likely to help reduce building construction. Similarly, it could enable businesses with good stock management as it would allow for a storage facility for all of their items to be organized. It would also reduce problems resulting in overproduction.

Climate-Controlled Storage

Using climate-controlled storage is essential for protecting your belongings from extreme temperatures, humidity, and weather fluctuations. This type of storage ensures that delicate items such as electronics, furniture, artwork, and important documents are shielded from moisture, mould, and potential damage. With consistent temperature and humidity levels, climate-controlled units reduce the risk of warping, cracking, or other types of degradation, offering long-term protection for valuable or sensitive items. This method is ideal for anyone seeking reliable preservation in varying environmental conditions.

Community Engagement and Outreach

Community engagement and outreach are essential for self storage facilities to promote sustainability and environmental awareness. Partnering with local environmental organizations and community groups can help amplify sustainability efforts and foster a sense of community involvement.

Hosting educational events and workshops is an effective way to raise awareness about the importance of sustainability and environmental conservation. These events can provide valuable information and resources to the community, encouraging more sustainable practices.

Participating in community clean-up events and tree-planting campaigns further demonstrates a commitment to environmental conservation. By engaging with the community in these meaningful ways, self storage facilities can promote sustainability and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Sustainable Materials and Practices

Sustainable materials and practices are essential for self storage facilities aiming to reduce their environmental impact. Using sustainable building materials, such as recycled steel and eco-friendly insulation, helps conserve natural resources and reduce waste. These materials are not only environmentally friendly but also enhance the durability and efficiency of the building.

Eco-friendly packing materials, such as biodegradable boxes and recycled bubble wrap, can also help reduce waste and conserve natural resources. Encouraging customers to use these materials promotes sustainable habits and reduces the overall environmental impact of the facility.

Implementing sustainable practices, such as reducing paper usage through digital administration and providing recycling facilities on-site, further supports environmental goals. By using sustainable materials and practices, self storage facilities can significantly reduce their environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Promoting Recycling and Reuse Efforts

It helps to reuse the materials in the environment to help you live the most sustainable life possible. Self-storaged goods are useful for future use rather than thrown out because you have to locate a suitable storage area. Many self-storage companies hold donations or recycling events, with some self-storing units serving as drop offs. Our Bicester shop was able to drop off a Bicester babybank when they ran a HomeSchool Equipment Appeal.

Green Building Design

Install environmentally conscious building techniques based on sustainable materials may reduce environmental impacts and appeal to an edifying clientele. Green buildings reduce energy use and reduce their carbon footprint. Energy efficiency designs, including the use of daylighting and insulation, offer a range of cost savings. In addition to reducing operational costs, these solutions contribute towards a green footprint.

Extra Space self-storage real estate REIT with sustainable practices

Extra Space are a US brand recognised by GRESB as No.1 for their ESG efforts that include an energy efficiency strategy with LED or T-8 lighting systems, a solar program maximizing the use of rooftops for clean energy production, and a focus on recycled materials in their boxes and packing supplies. Their storage units are designed with energy-efficient technology and sustainable features, such as eco-friendly pest control and renewable energy sources, to enhance environmental impact. Additionally, they have a paper-use reduction plan prioritising digital administration procedures, efficient plumbing devices, and irrigation systems combined with xeriscaping to limit water demand. For more information on their Social Policy, see the annual report here.

https://www.extraspace.com/self-storage/sustainability/

contact us to discuss your self-storage ESG and sustainability project.

Bamboo in sustainable buildings and interiors

sustainable building materials and interiors

the case for bamboo

Welcome to episode 51 of the Green and Healthy Places podcast, in which we explore the themes of wellbeing and sustainability in real estate and interiors today.

I'm your host, Matt Morley, founder of Biofilico healthy buildings and in this episode i’m talking to my good friend Manuel Diaz Cebrian about his role in creating a new bamboo industry in Mexico.

Manuel was previously a Director at the Mexican Tourism Board in London where he managed the country’s image throughout Europe, repositioning Mexico as a cultural and culinary destination to beat.

He is now Director of Special Projects for Marbella Design Week and is launching into the world of sustainable entrepreneurship by agitating for a Mexican bamboo industry to rival that of nearby Colombia.

We discuss bamboo’s sustainability credentials, it’s various applications in sustainable buildings and interiors, its social impact benefits for indigenous peoples in Mexico, the influence of Bali’s Green School on bamboo-friendly architecture and architecture collectives around the world, and mucho mas.

---

Matt Morley

So you're doing really interesting work around sustainable bamboo. And it's one of those materials that has a wide understanding to some extent, but I think there's also a lot of confusion.

So why don't we start with that piece around the varieties of the bamboo as I know that it's basically a grass, but how many different varieties there are and which ones are most relevant for sustainable buildings and interiors in your opinion?

Bamboo as a sustainable building material

Manuel Diaz-Cebrian

Absolutely, I'd have to tell you, first of all, my introduction to bamboo was as a gardening ornamental plant. When I went to Bali for the first time, I was so impressed to see and stay in a hotel that was built completely of bamboo; I didn't know that sustainable bamboo had all this potential to support a structure such as a hotel building for example.

So then I came back to Europe, and especially in Mexico nobody knew that much about the potential of bamboo so I started to look at its business possibilities in Europe and North America where it is less well known.

Varieties of sustainable bamboo material

There are more than 1600 kinds of bamboo. You could imagine that the varieties will differ according to climate, to their kind of soil, altitude, etc. Every single kind of bamboo developed in different climates and characteristics of soil. But they're among these there are possibly seven used widely used in sustainable construction of buildings.

Its strength is how fast it grows, as you mentioned earlier, many people do not really understand its possibilities as a sustainable materials for interiors or buildings, OK maybe you as a healthy building consultant yes you know more than others but actually very few people know that bamboo is not a tree it is a grass.

It can grow one meter in height each week once it is 3-5 years old and it could grow up to 30 meters in height, with a width of 20cm-30cm.

Reducing the carbon footprint of buildings interiors

Matt Morley

So that brings us into the discussion around sustainability and bamboo being a fundamentally sustainable material for buildings and interiors. I know there's also some interesting information around its carbon footprint in particular, we're all I think now finally paying far more attention to the carbon footprint not just of our buildings, but also the interiors, in fact of the interior fit-out - or how much carbon are we embedding into the buildings and interiors that we're producing.

So, how does that work in terms of preventing deforestation, which I guess is to some extent explaining its advantage as a sustainable material right?

Manuel Diaz-Cebrian

So bamboo stores its own water, it’s moving up and down inside the tubes of bamboo basically, its roots are not very deep. Bamboo recovers the nutrients it needs from the soil, it is capturing carbon rather than releasing it into the atmosphere. The carbon can stay locked away for 30-40 years like that. It depends on how you use it and dispose of it.

Reducing deforestation via sustainable materials such as bamboo

Talking about deforestation, obviously no single species is a complete solution to the problem so bamboo can play a role with a multi-crop strategy to ensure biodiversity and regeneration of soil. It is less advisable to have entire jungles dedicated to bamboo alone as a mono-crop strategy.

Primarily, bamboo is going to give the soil the nutrients it needs for healthy development and regeneration. Bamboo is a tool to help us regenerate our forests in an intelligent way, it ha a role to play in that process.

I know we had to stop the forest in the forest state in our jungles and wood, but there's already a lot of plant that has been damaged. And bamboo comes as a resource to regenerate those areas that have been already destroyed.

Growing sustainable bamboo materials around the world

Matt Morley

Can bamboo only play that role in certain geographies and latitudes around the world? What are its limitations in terms of locations?

Manuel Diaz-Cebrian

It all depends on the altitude in the soil, from the climate on the humidity. Obviously the Chinese and the Asians developed it most aggressively and bamboo is a native plant from that area but it is also found in Latin America for example, as well as Indonesia of course.

In Japan, bamboo is considered a very fine material while in China it is less prestigious, almost a symbol of poverty because it was so readily available.

Now we know that sustainable bamboo can also be grown in Mexico, it’s just a matter of culture, learnign how to care for it, harvest it, treat it and turn it into sustainable building and interior products.

For example bamboo is often treated with borax to prevent bacteria killing the bamboo. It’s a successful treatment that may involve submerging the bamboo in borax for instance.

Examples of bamboo in sustainable interiors

The applications of bamboo are what we can do with it in real estate and interiors, so it can be a materials such as flooring and panels. It can be used as a tubular product for construction as in that format it has the highest capacity for being a load-bearing material in structures.

So, that gives the bamboo a certain strength, because actually in the industry of the construction or index industries, we produce them, they are the metal, tubular things because they the tubular form resist a lot of impact and way bamboo has this form and strain by nature.

And you can see this example in Bali and many in many pavilions of examples from Belize is this very well known Colombian architect, he's been actually building up pavilions and churches of bamboo in our in his natural form Joseph tubular that you will have seen and supported with engineering techniques.

uses of bamboo for architects and interior designers

Matt Morley

So you mentioned the the same tubular shape that provides inherent strength to the material. So when you in terms of those characteristics, when you're talking to architects, when you're talking to designers, what characteristics are of most relevance?

What are the things that that can ultimately make it so useful? And how is it applied in different ways not just in a tubular form but I know I've seen it come through and flooring into effectively tiles so you get into flooring tiles as an alternative to wood.

Manuel Diaz-Cebrian

The possibilities are endless! I'm gonna give you a lovely example - you could produce fabrics you could produce food, you could produce jewellery, even juices and food. So really you could use the whole thing in different ways. to produce fabric is very popular now in India, the number one country producing bamboo textiles.

Bamboo is has a great future because it's durability number one and number two the hardness and number three the rapid growth. Those three factors are the most important factors to consider all the time. It can be used in kitchens, in flooring both indoors and outdoors. Once you engineer bamboo you can create different textures, colors, and usages.

For example, there is a hotel in in the Netherlands in Amsterdam called Hotel Jakarta mainly made from bamboo combined with other woods.

Why is important for the architects or the people in the construction industry to use bamboo. Well, first of all, for the three characteristic as I mentioned earlier, there's durability, strength and agility and obviously the hardness but the other one is just to support the sustainability of this resource. The more demand, the more we can support a boom in bamboo.

What is preventing bamboo from becoming a more widely used sustainable material?

The problem we have is that people are still very non aware of the opportunity for bamboo. I’m involved in creating a network of growers of bamboo in Mexico, for example. Obviously, compared to Asia, in Latin America, the industry for bamboo is very small. But this is more because we didn't know the potential, or how amazingly profitable it could be.

Because obviously, we didn't know how to use it or what to do with it as a sustainable material. We want people to learn how to take advantage of the durability of the material and the demand for it in treated form. That is what' is missing at the moment in Mexico.

Matt Morley

So I think that's what I find so interesting about what you're working on here, this project of effectively creating or reinventing the bamboo industry for a country like Mexico. So as I see it, you've got effectively three levels, right you have the producers, you have the crops, you need the space, you need the fields, you need the farmers to produce it and look after it.

Then there's the processing / treatment piece in the middle. And then a final piece, which is around the sales and communication and the distribution of where it goes to the end consumers which we've just covered some that bit in the middle, between the growers, and those who purchase the refined product. What does that what does that look like?

Or what could that look like in Mexico who's doing that refinement of the raw material and turning it into a product? Or how could that look in a in a new industry in Mexico?

Manuel Diaz-Cebrian

Let me go back to something as important mentioned, John Hardy created the Green School, which is the School of Bamboo in Bali years ago. He fell in love with bamboo. And they discover all the boundaries of this material. And then through the years, they created the Green School of bamboo in order to educate people on its potential. So it started being a school for children, and then became a school for architects.

John's Hardy daughter is a famous architect now too, she's the one that came back to the roots of her father, now she's one of the most popular and famous architects focused on bamboo buildings construction. The Green School has educated a lot of architects worldwide.

Interestingly, these architects and their word of mouth has created a lot of small collaborative groups that are now dedicating their lives to work and teach people what to do with bamboo. why it was important to harvest to harvest it, why where you can do it, how you could go with the bamboo not necessarily being rich, but actually how do you use it.

There is a famous architect in Mexico, she is working on a program that is started in Thailand about how to build your own house using bamboo? How incredible is that - teaching people to grow bamboo and build their own house with the material they have grown.

Social impact and sustainable bamboo

One of the reasons I’m getting into the bamboo industry in Mexico is because obviously the countryside in Mexico, Latin America is kind of cool. So bamboo is certain areas that are tropical, have been achieved those, they the coffee industry, I know the industry has really damaged our jungles and on our land tremendously so integrating bamboo into the selection of natural resources that you could use in a particular habitat partially resolves that issue rather than damaging the soil further.

So the whole idea is for indigenous people get a benefit from harvesting the bamboo, make the main number more profitable. And also not only for the construction, or use it as well as decoration items, for chairs, for lamps, all the stuff in red to get the added value of the bamboo. Because not everything is used on the construction, some leftovers are thrown away. The whole idea is to teach people how to take the benefit from the whole bamboo stem.

Colombia is the most advanced country already in this industry as they started years ago but Mexico has great potential too!

How are you helping to create a sustainable bamboo industry in Mexico?

First of all, you got to create the union of producers of bamboo, because they're kind of separated at the moment, it’s all very disparate and spread out, nothing brings them together into an industry yetto unify a price point, control quality, how it is treated, promote this new sustainable building interior resource to local architects and interior designers, etc.

Matt Morley

Really appreciate how you've described that kind of playmaking role of putting it together piecing the different elements together so that you create what is hopefully going to be a long term project around a sustainable alternative to building with less and less sustainable building materials.

So I think it's got so much merit if if someone wants to read further into the subject if they want to explore the topic a bit deeper. Is there what's uh, is there a recommended resource? Or where would you say we could go to kind of learn a bit more?

Manuel Diaz-Cebrian

Well, I have to tell you actually, I've been researching bamboo, I mean, ideally, in a professional way for the last few years. Because as you know, I'm the director of special projects for Marbella Design.

We gave a talk two years ago to architects and designers in Marbella and we started educating our guests about bamboo there. Many did not know the roof of the airport terminal at Madrid Barajas is made of bamboo for example!

I'm going to Paris in two hours just to see a pavilion that Simon Velez has built made of bamboo. So it's more and more and more that you're seeing this.

Last year, I invited Dr. Pablo van der Lugt to speak at Marbella Design Week, author of the book called ‘Booming Bamboo’ that I recommend to architects and interior designers interested in sustainable interiors or building construction. This is something of a bible in fact. I give a copy to every single person I meet who wants to learn more about the wonders of bamboo!

Show notes:

https://www.greenschool.org/

https://hoteljakarta.com/

https://designweekmarbella.com/en/home/

https://boomingbamboo.com/