The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to businesses worldwide, including those in the office fit-out industry. As many companies have shifted to remote work, there have been significant changes to how offices are being used which has further impacted sustainability practices. In this post, we will discuss the impact of COVID-19 on sustainability in the office environment and how companies like DENTON can adapt their ESG policies to respond to changing circumstances.
During the pandemic, there was a surge of requests for advice on creating a safe, sustainable, and future-proof office environment for employees returning to work. As a result, we had to rethink much of what we knew about office design and take on new responsibilities. We adopted SMART offices to reduce energy consumption, minimise the risk of spreading germs, and use locally sourced available sustainable materials. We also prioritised biophilic design to incorporate nature into the office environment. We designed flexible and agile spaces that met the demand for social interaction and co-worker communication while maintaining individual productivity. Our ultimate goal was to create an office environment that felt like a second home for our clients, capturing their business identity. This was our mission at DENTON, a leading office design and fit-out company operating in Lancashire led by Richard Douglas, Director.
Reduced office occupancy rates due to remote work
One of the most significant impacts of COVID-19 on sustainability in the office environment has been the reduced office occupancy rates due to remote work. With many employees working from home, offices are being used less frequently, which has led to reduced energy consumption and emissions. However, this reduction in energy consumption is not a sustainable solution in the long term as many companies will eventually return to full occupancy rates, and the energy consumption will increase again.
DENTON has recognised the importance of addressing these changing circumstances and has implemented solutions to minimise the environmental impact of remote working within their new comprehensive ESG policy. This includes encouraging the use of video conferencing tools to reduce the need for travel, remote site visits and ensuring that employees have access to digital resources to minimise the need for paper-based materials.
Increased demand for hygiene and sanitation measures
Another impact of COVID-19 on sustainability in the office environment has been the increased demand for hygiene and sanitation measures. This has led to an increase in the use of disposable products such as masks, gloves, and wipes, which has resulted in more waste being produced. The pandemic has also increased the use of single-use plastics, such as bottles and cutlery, as many offices have suspended the use of communal kitchen facilities.
DENTON has responded to this challenge by developing solutions that minimise waste and reduce the environmental impact of hygiene and sanitation measures. This includes providing hand sanitiser stations that are refillable, replacing disposable masks and gloves with reusable options, and implementing sustainable waste management practices.
The importance of employee wellbeing
COVID-19 has highlighted the importance of employee well-being, including physical and mental health, as well as work-life balance. With the pandemic, many employees have experienced increased stress, anxiety, and isolation. To address these challenges, companies must prioritise employee wellbeing and take steps to support their mental and physical health.
DENTON has recognised the importance of employee well-being and has implemented policies that support this priority. This includes offering mental health support, providing resources for remote working, and prioritising work-life balance.
Supply chain disruptions and sustainability
The COVID-19 pandemic has also led to significant disruptions in global supply chains. This has had an impact on sustainability practices, as companies have had to adapt to changing circumstances and find new sources for materials and products.
DENTON has responded to these challenges by working closely with suppliers to ensure that sustainability practices are maintained throughout the supply chain. This includes sourcing sustainable materials, reducing waste in the supply chain, and working with suppliers to minimise the environmental impact of their operations.
How have other companies adapted their ESG policies since COVID?
Sky has adapted its ESG policies to focus on employee well-being by offering mental health support and resources for remote working. The company has also implemented measures to reduce its carbon footprint by investing in renewable energy sources and reducing its overall energy consumption.
Similarly, HSBC has responded to the increased demand for hygiene and sanitation measures by providing hand sanitiser stations that are refillable and reducing the use of single-use plastics in its offices. The company has also committed to sourcing sustainable materials and reducing waste in its supply chain, as well as investing in renewable energy sources.
In addition to these examples, other companies in the UK have implemented measures to adapt to the impact of COVID-19 on sustainability in the office environment. These measures include promoting the use of digital resources to reduce the need for paper-based materials, implementing measures to reduce energy consumption in empty offices, and working with suppliers to ensure sustainability practices are maintained throughout the supply chain.
COVID-19’s Impact on Office Sustainability – A Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought unprecedented challenges to businesses around the world, including those in the office fit-out industry. However, it has also presented an opportunity for companies like DENTON to adapt their ESG policies and respond to changing circumstances. By prioritising sustainability practices, supporting employee well-being, and working closely with suppliers, companies can continue to improve their ESG practices and contribute to a more sustainable future for all.
