Save the Planet Through Sustainable Procurement

November 27, 2024

By their nature, commercial buildings carry a large environmental footprint, producing 40% of global energy consumption and 33% of greenhouse gas emissions. Each small purchasing decision can meaningfully reduce this impact, often with equal or lower operational costs. Sustainability has also become a growing priority for U.S.-based executives, with a recent survey showing more than half plan to increase sustainability spending next year. With this in mind, here’s how to incorporate sustainable procurement into your everyday facility management in 2025.

Source Greener Supplies

Instead of generic consumables, choose third-party certified green products. These more sustainable procurement alternatives can save future trash from landfills, like toilet paper and paper towels made from post-consumer waste or bio-renewable sources. Other products reduce their environmental impact by using biodegradable materials, such as compostable trash bags and liners. Non-toxic soaps and sanitizers also provide alternatives to traditional formulas that can leach harmful chemicals into water bodies, affecting local ecosystems.

Minimize and Manage Waste

Facilities can explore ways to cut their overall waste, from reducing excessive packaging to replacing single-use plastics with reusable alternatives. A robust recycling program can also help buildings contribute to a more circular economy. This is especially true for electronic waste, or “e-waste,” recycling, which repurposes materials while reducing the risk of toxic substances like lead and mercury being released into the environment.

Install Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Simple energy-saving improvements can dramatically reduce buildings’ electricity consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Consider upgrades like LED lighting, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and smart thermostats. Facilities managers can also use smart technology to collect real-time data for accurate sustainability reporting.

Choose Green-friendly Service Providers

Choosing the right service partners is essential for sustainable facility management. At SparkleTeam, we follow the highest green commercial cleaning standards in the industry, using thirty-party certified cleaning products and equipment. We help facilities achieve their sustainability goals, including providing support through the LEED certification process.