Going green without spending green

Sustainable buildings can do more for tenants other than helping the environment. Statistically, employees who work in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) buildings are healthier, more productive and more loyal to their companies.

Business owners are becoming more willing to spend more on eco-friendly spaces. In fact, it is expected that commercial building owners will spend $960 billion in upgrading infrastructure to meet LEED standards by 2023.

Currently, there are more than 200,000 buildings with LEED certification. Many metropolitan areas of the U.S. have yet to embrace these guidelines since it’s time-consuming and costly., but building green habits in the workplace does not have to be expensive. Simply walking, biking, or taking public transportation can contribute to a more eco-friendly workplace.

Upgrading furniture can also help companies use their space more efficiently and effectively, while maintaining day-to-day productivity.

Energy efficient lighting is also an inexpensive way to be more green, while also cutting down long-term energy costs. LED lighting typically pays for itself in about three years.

Simply put, it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg to become a more energy conscious building.