Design Certification for Commercial Client ESG & Zero Carbon Strategies

ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) goals are becoming central to sustainability efforts in commercial building projects, particularly in workplace design and refurbishments. As sustainability reporting and data scrutiny grow, companies increasingly seek certified designs to attract eco-conscious employees and avoid greenwashing accusations. These certifications have gained prominence in financial reporting, catching the attention of international investors.

Beyond compliance, ESG factors are shaping workplace design to accommodate post-pandemic work patterns and encourage employees to return to physical offices. Designing spaces that promote well-being and align with ethical sustainability principles has become a priority. A survey of architects explored how clients are integrating wellness and sustainability into their projects, with insights compiled into a white paper that examines key trends in the industry.

The push for sustainable certifications has intensified as hybrid work models shift employee expectations. Companies view sustainability credentials as a competitive advantage for attracting talent. However, ensuring the effectiveness of such measures requires robust certification systems and dedicated project teams. While certifications provide a framework for sustainability, they also introduce challenges, including selecting the right system and enforcing compliance.

Our white paper highlights the return on investment in sustainability certifications, particularly regarding recruitment and retention benefits. The white paper explored various measurement systems, from widely recognised frameworks like BREEAM and LETI to lesser-known options, along with opinions on who should oversee these certifications. The findings reinforced some industry assumptions but also revealed unexpected perspectives on the role of sustainability in business resilience and achieving net-zero goals.