As we celebrate World FM Day it has never been more crucial to acknowledge and embrace the critical role of Hard FM Services in advancing sustainability and reducing carbon emissions.
Our hard FM services encompass a range of activities which are essential for the efficient and sustainable operation of buildings and infrastructure. While these services may not be as visible as soft FM services such as cleaning and catering, they are essential for the construction and ongoing operation of healthy, safe, and environmentally-friendly buildings that promote the well-being of their occupants and the wider environment.
The growing emphasis on sustainability and the broader ESG agenda demonstrates the FM industry’s dedication to making a genuine difference. In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards more sustainable construction and building operational practices, driven by a combination of regulatory mandates, market demand, and corporate responsibility. Consequently, FM providers are increasingly focused on delivering sustainable solutions that reduce environmental impact and energy consumption while simultaneously enhancing occupant comfort and productivity.
With the advent of new technologies and digital solutions that are reshaping the design, construction, and operations of buildings, innovation is propelling change in the FM industry on a global scale. The Internet of Things (IOT) continues to advance the enablement and evolution of SMART buildings which optimise energy consumption, monitor interior air quality, provide security solutions, and automate maintenance tasks.
As we look to the future, the FM sector will continue to play a crucial role in advancing sustainability and lowering carbon emissions. As the world confronts the urgent challenge of climate change the demand for sustainable buildings and infrastructure will continue to rise. To meet the evolving requirements of our clients and the broader community, FM providers will need to adapt and adopt new strategies and technologies to provide sustainable, long-term solutions to the industry.
In addition to playing a crucial role in improving the energy efficiency of buildings through initiatives such as the Better Energy Communities programme, the Irish FM industry has set ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, demonstrating its commitment to advancing sustainability and the broader ESG agenda. The programme has supported the retrofitting of over 8,700 homes and enterprises, resulting in substantial year-over-year decreases in CO2 emissions.
The adoption of green building standards requiring new public buildings to meet a minimum BREEAM “Very Good” standard, which recognises buildings with a high level of sustainability and energy efficiency, is another example of Ireland’s accomplishments. This has spread to the private sector, propelling the adoption of sustainable building practices, with an increasing number of clients not only expecting but mandating the achievement of sustainability credentials as standard design and use practice.
Hard FM services are an integral part of sustainable building practices, and the FM industry plays a crucial role in furthering sustainability and carbon reduction.
Celebrating World FM Day and its central theme, “Driving Real Change,” it is important to acknowledge the accomplishments of the Irish FM industry and to look forward to a future where new technologies, innovation, and a commitment to ESG will continue to be a force for driving change to create a more sustainable and resilient built environment for all.
At Sensori FM, as industry leaders, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of driving these changes in all our collective efforts to sustainably enhance the built environment to the benefit of our clients, building occupants and the wider global environmental landscape.
To find out more about World FM Day please visit https://globalfm.org/world-fm-day/.
