The trend for energy efficient offices

In recent years, climate issues and environmental pollution have been one of the main topics of discussion worldwide. In the real estate sector, but also among builders, investors and business owners, this is directly related to the ESG criterion.

ESGs are environmental, social and managerial criteria that assess a company's attitude towards environmental and social factors.

The future of office buildings

The reason more and more builders and investors are paying attention to this factor is that their business depends directly on ESG, especially if they want it to survive in the coming years. Globally, there are more and more supporters of the concept of sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyles. This also has a direct impact on buildings, as one of the major polluters and producers of harmful emissions.

Environmental, social and managerial aspect

Environmental aspect

When we talk about the environmental criterion of the ESG, it includes energy use, pollution, waste and the use of natural resources. Liliya Krasteva, Country Head for Bulgaria of CERES Management and Head of Property Management, shared her expertise on environmental sustainability in the sector:

„For a long time, the Revetas Capital Group and we at CERES Management, as part of the group and property managers in its portfolio, have focused on applying the principles of sustainable development, taking into account environmental, social and managerial criteria in the business company“

 Krasteva also commented on the importance of the zero footprint of buildings:

„Only 1% of the buildings in Bulgaria have zero footprint, and this is very bad. They all generate a huge cost - cold, heat, energy, water, paper, etc. It is important to us that our investments bring long-term benefits to the environment and the social environment“

. Sofia Airport Center (SAC) applies some practices to save resources and protect the environment - energy-efficient equipment, photocells for water fountains, heating and ventilation management, as well as care for the removal of contaminants from oils, chemicals and toxic waste. The SAC office building is the first building in Bulgaria with the LEED Gold Certificate, since 2012, when environmental protection and the pursuit of zero footprint became a mission for the team.

 The social aspect

Employees are the foundation of a successful business. A safe and healthy work environment is a priority for any employer. The COVID-19 pandemic has endangered everyone's health and has completely overturned the office work model. Most tenants had to make a quick decision that would not harm not only the business but also their employees. Sofia Airport Center is certified by the leader in testing and inspection Bureau Veritas with a "Safe Guard" certificate. It is a guarantee for a high level of hygiene and compliance with all world standards for work in a safe and healthy environment. As employees return to the offices, it is important to provide them with personal protective equipment, distance and frequent disinfection.

Managerial criteria

In terms of managerial criteria, it is important that companies do not engage in conflicts of interest when choosing management, for example. It is also extremely important that they do not use political pressure or services to achieve certain goals. Transparency in resources and the right decision-making are important here.

It is difficult for any company to meet all the criteria and to be flawless. The small steps we are taking are the path to environmental protection. The tendency of more and more owners focusing on this aspect of business management is growing, and this is a step in the right direction.

The way to energy-efficient offices is to reduce the footprint of buildings and meet ESG criteria. What is the future of office buildings and how they will change remains to be seen in the coming years.