Sustainable Office Refurbishment – Basic Principles

The basic principles of a sustainable approach to an office refurbishment project stand on three legs. Using carbon neutral, low energy, renewable and recyclable materials should be a focus for office refurbishment and office fit-out project managers. The basic principles can be summarized into the following categories; material, energy and re-use and recycle.

Material:

Sustainable office refurbishment should incorporate material from renewable sources, and material used from manufacturers who minimize hazards, waste and energy use. The refurbishment project overall aim should be to be as carbon neutral as possible.

Energy:

Sustainable office refurbishment should take in account for energy ratings for plants, machinery and lighting. Low energy alternatives should be thoroughly investigated and proposed.

Re-use and Recycle:

Sustainable office refurbishment should make sure old office furniture is sent to charity or for recycling. Flooring, glass, ceilings and partitions should be re-used or recycled. Metal and hazardous materials should be sent away for recycling.