Office buildings around the world are responsible for a large number of carbon emissions. In fact, according to NABERS, buildings (not just office buildings) are responsible for 40% of the entire world’s carbon emissions! They also consume 40% of the world’s energy and 30% of the world’s drinking water.
Unfortunately, recent reports show that Sydney commercial buildings aren’t winning any awards. They’re actually falling well behind according to NABERS ratings. Below, we’ll take a closer look at NABERS, as well as actions that can be taken to improve green ratings and reduce carbon emissions.
What is NABERS?
NABERS stands for the National Australian Built Environment Rating System. This organisation provides a simple measurement for sustainability that can be used for office buildings all over the country. The measurement can also be applied to shopping centres, hotels, and data centres.
NABERS provides a rating from one to six on different aspects of the building, including:
- Energy
- Water
- Waste
- Indoor environment.
These ratings can be reviewed every twelve months, giving buildings and building managers enough time to make meaningful improvements. Ideally, these improvements will result in a higher rating next time around, and therefore, a more positive impact on the environment. They will also help to identify areas of improvement for businesses and building management.
How do Sydney office buildings rate?
Not too bad, but not excellent either.
The City of Sydney is aiming for net zero carbon emissions by the end of 2035, but it’s certainly not on track to hit that target at this moment in time. In fact, although Sydney does lead the country in ratings, only one-third of buildings rate 5.5 or higher on the NABERS scale. Therefore, it’s clear that more can be done by building owners and managers, to create a more positive environmental impact.
At Niche Tenant Advisory, we work with businesses to help them find the perfect workplace. That involves continuing to build a green brand and working with sustainable buildings and managers. This means we always consider NABERS ratings when recommending or researching new property for our clients.
Moving forward, it’s essential that all buildings, building owners, and building managers, ensure that a green brand is a priority. We will continue to work with our clients to achieve the best outcomes possible, always ensuring that sustainability is taken into account.
How to reduce carbon emissions from commercial real estate?
While many buildings and businesses are lagging behind, there are a number of steps that can be taken to improve NABERS ratings and become a more sustainable commercial building.
Energy saving devices
There is a huge range of energy-saving devices available for use in the office. This includes smart power boards that reduce energy use, energy-saving computers and monitors, along with smart lighting that is easily adjustable. That means it turns off when there is no one in the office, and can be adjusted to become brighter or less bright, also saving on energy.
Lighting
It’s estimated that lighting consumes roughly 35% of all the energy consumed by large office buildings. LED globes are an excellent way to reduce energy consumption in the office. In fact, LED bulbs use up to 80% less energy than standard or halogen globes. Therefore, LED globes should always be the first choice for offices and office buildings.
Regular HVAC maintenance
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems can be costly in terms of both energy and money. However, they will cost considerably more if regular maintenance isn’t carried out. This is because as these units and systems age, they become far less efficient in terms of energy used. This is where regular maintenance is absolutely necessary.
Replacing aging parts and cleaning existing mechanical parts go a very long way toward reducing energy consumption. It also ensures that your HVAC systems are doing their job as intended, keeping your office cool, warm, and well-ventilated. It will also help boost your ratings with NABERS, and similar organisations.
Recycled building materials
During the fit-out or refurbishment process, the use of recycled materials can greatly improve the NABERS rating of your building. Utilising these materials means less virgin resources were required during the manufacturing process. It’s even more beneficial when the materials are recyclable again, maintaining a closed loop.
What are the benefits of a greener building in the CBD?
It’s not just about NABERS ratings. There is a bevy of fantastic benefits for maintaining a greener office building in the Sydney CBD. These benefits can include:
- A more marketable complex, meaning you’re more likely to attract interested tenants, particularly those who care about sustainability.
- Fewer vacancies, thanks to that increase in marketability.
- Higher demand from investors, for existing and new commercial projects.
- More affordable operating costs, thanks to reduced energy consumption and more efficient use of electronics and HVAC systems.
- The ability to charge more for commercial leasing.
- A higher value placed on your building in the future.
- Lower turnover of tenants.
These benefits are a huge tick for any building owner, investor, or manager, as well as prospective tenants who are hunting for a new Sydney office lease.
Finding the right space for your business, or the right tenants for your building
An expert Sydney tenant advisor is essential. At Niche Tenant Advisory, we work with a wide range of tenants to get the best office lease available. Get in touch with us today for more information on how we can help.
