The Society of Human Resource
Management (SHRM) in a poll defined Green Workplaces as environmentally sensitive,
resource efficient and socially responsible workspaces. The concept of Green
Workplaces is driven by corporate strategies for leveraging Human Resources in
the best possible way, which in turn drives optimal productivity. These
strategies are innately linked with psychological aspects, health and hygiene
as well as the holistic concept of sustainability. The US Harris Poll based on
linkages of HR and “Green” aspects of workplaces has found that 33% of the
country’s populations are inclined to work in Green Buildings compared to
companies without any effort to promote social and environmental friendly
practices.
As the link of productivity of
Human Resource and environmental aspects of a workplace is subservient,
corporations are now on the process of transformation of their existing offices
to Green Spaces. Health is related intrinsically with intellectual and physical
development of human and hence with productivity. In the backdrop of a
deteriorating environment simulated by surging pollution and facets such as
global warming, the concept of Green Building is emerging on the mainstream. As
the positive effects of Green Construction on health is becoming increasingly
clear, its advocacy of productivity in human resource also becoming evident.
Healthy body connotes a healthy mind increasing competency and hence, productivity
of human resources.
Workplaces have substantial
impact on human resource performance. A number of scientific studies have
concluded that productivity is directly proportional to sustainable aspects of environment
in any workplace. Surroundings have profound impact on Reading Speed,
Comprehension, Signal Recognition as well as Typing Speed. These are the basic
elements of any work operation translating to productivity. A strong link exists
between quality of indoor air and the incidence of allergy and asthma symptoms.
In adequate ventilation causes higher concentration of carbon dioxide that incurs
a number of health hazards including fatigue, headaches and increased risk of
Sick Building Syndrome. Ambient temperature is intrinsically related to performance.
Studies have proven that the most
amicable temperature for employees is 22 degree centigrade. Performance is
reported to increase up to 21 to 22 degree centigrade and is reported to
decrease with temperature above 23 to 24 degree centigrade. Lighting has mixed
results in office workers. A test performed in School students showed
improvements of 16-26 percent in performance of students in day lighting. Environmentally
sustainable aspects have clear relationship with productivity elements such as
absenteeism, retention, engagement and turnover.
A research by U.S. Green Building
Council proved that level of indoor pollutants can be higher than that of
outdoors by 10 times. Green buildings are healthier as they provide cleaner
environment and hence, health benefits. Studies have indicated that these
buildings yielded $53 to $71 per square foot back on investment over an average
period of 20 years. It is also found out that industry sectors could save up to
$130 Billion only by saving electricity through Green Buildings. Investment
risk in these buildings is much less than conventional construction. A survey
by International Energy Agency indicated that existing buildings across the
globe contributes to more than 40% of total primary energy consumption and 24%
of global Carbon Dioxide Emission.
The aesthetics aspects of Green
Building are paramount to promote human productivity. Green architecture and
design offers a sustained environment, which is in harmony with nature. Such
surroundings guarantee reduction of noise and thereby propagate peace of mind. This
feature is substantial to induce productivity in human mind and develop quality
human resources. A proportional relation exists between a peaceful mind and
creativity. Natural environment supports innovation and creative thinking,
which has been the backbone human civilization. Worker Productivity is among the
most important aspects of Green Building. Increased
productivity and employee’s positive approach to workplace are directly
correlated. Certain aspects of Green Building such as lighting, reduced
pollution, proper ventilation and reduced toxins have direct impact on worker’s
productivity.
Organizations around the Globe
are gradually adopting the concept of Green Building over traditional
workspaces. Apart from optimal utilization of human resource these allows to save
cost and contribute towards holistic development. Corporations such as Ford,
Pepsico and so on are emerging as pioneers to adopt the idea and in realty sector;
Green Building is becoming a strong USP. Many companies across the globe are
now opting for Green workspaces to leverage its benefits.
Green Buildings are the
juxtaposition of every aspect that fosters healthy lifestyle. Human
performance, in present times, must be considered as important as energy
performance and the increasing paradigms of technological development. With the
emergence of technological amenities, human beings seem to stray away from
their actual level of competence, both mentally and physically. Prioritizing
this issue is crucial and development pattern that supports human abilities to
grow should be initiated, rather than rendering further depreciation of
performance.
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