A comprehensive new survey of over 3,400 office workers across the UK has found that having a sustainable, environmentally-friendly workspace is now more important to employees than receiving an annual bonus.
The research was commissioned by Brookfield Properties, one of the world’s largest commercial real estate developers and landlords, in partnership with renowned architecture and design firm Foster + Partners.
Titled “Design of the Workplace“, the report offers invaluable insights into how office workers feel about the sustainability credentials and design of their work environments in the post-pandemic era.
Some telling statistics from the nationwide survey include:
– 83% of 18-29 year olds say it’s essential their employer operates in a sustainable, climate-forward manner
– 34% rank having a sustainable office space as more important than getting a yearly bonus payment (29%)
– 30% would think about leaving their job if their company doesn’t show a real commitment to sustainability
In addition, a sizable 87% believe today’s workspaces need proper evaluation for sustainability factors and health/safety. 74% also say they feel more productive and creative working in an actual office rather than at home.
The results make clear that sustainability has become a foremost priority for the modern workforce. Employees want concrete assurances their company is taking its environmental footprint seriously. This ranges from the design and operations of offices to supply chains and partnerships.
As a leading commercial property developer with over 20,000 occupants in London alone, Brookfield Properties UK has responded by setting a science-based emissions reduction target of 50% by 2030.
They have also announced a new initiative called Accelerate ESG. This will provide expertise and data tracking to help tenants achieve their own ESG goals in a collaborative manner.
As Dan Scanlon, Executive VP of Brookfield Properties UK, summarized: “There is a strong desire from companies and individuals to understand the carbon footprint of their workplace, and make meaningful reductions.”
To coincide with the report’s release, Brookfield Properties and Foster + Partners have created a showcase sustainable workspace installation displayed at the Ecocity World Summit in London.
Clearly, creating greener, human-centric offices that align with corporate ESG promises is no longer just about good PR. It has become an essential part of attracting and retaining the emerging generation of sustainability-focused employees.
Design of the Workplace Key Findings
