Smarter buildings for a better tomorrow: Increasing sustainability through data-driven insights
ArticleSeptember 24, 2024
As the world grapples with the urgent need for sustainability, buildings play a pivotal role in shaping our environmental future. Regulatory pressures and the growing emphasis on ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) initiatives are compelling organisations to prioritise building sustainability. However, achieving these goals requires a transformative approach to managing building operations and energy use.
The impact of buildings on carbon emissions
Buildings are responsible for a significant portion of energy consumption and carbon emissions. Research shows that 25% of the UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions are attributable to building design and the materials used in construction.
The imperative for building sustainability
Governments and regulatory bodies are intensifying efforts to enforce energy efficiency standards and reduce carbon emissions. At the same time investors and customers are demanding greater transparency and commitment to ESG principles. For organisations, this means that sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity.
Leveraging BMS data for carbon monitoring
Building Management Systems (BMS) collect extensive data on various building operations. This data often remains underutilised as it’s not available in a user-friendly format. Faced with ESG goals, organisations need to address this and find are looking for ways to transform raw data into actionable insight for reducing energy use and carbon emissions.
The path to energy-efficient buildings
- Transforming BMS data into actionable insights involves several key steps:
- Data integration and real-time monitoring: Integrating additional sensors and real-time data transmission allows for comprehensive monitoring of all building systems.
- Advanced analytics: Sophisticated data analysis identifies inefficiencies and provides recommendations for optimising building operations.
- Proactive maintenance: Predictive maintenance based on real-time data ensures that building systems operate efficiently, reducing energy waste and extending equipment lifespan.
- Behavioural adjustments: Insights into occupancy patterns and system usage enable adjustments that align with actual needs, minimising unnecessary energy use.
Organisational benefits of sustainable building management
- Implementing data-driven strategies for building management offers a multitude of organisational benefits:
- Cost savings: Reducing energy consumption translates directly into lower operational costs.
- Regulatory compliance: Meeting stringent energy efficiency standards and emissions targets ensures compliance with evolving regulations.
- Enhanced reputation: Sustainable practices lead to long-term value creation by preserving resources, extending equipment lifespan and fostering a positive corporate image.
The opportunity to reduce energy use and support ESG targets
By leveraging the power of BMS data through advanced analytics and real-time monitoring, organisations can transform their operations, reduce energy consumption and support their sustainability ambitions. This proactive approach not only addresses regulatory and stakeholder demands but also positions organisations for long-term success in a greener future.
Zurich insite helps to reduce carbon emissions
A simple add-on that works in harmony with your BMS can transform your raw data into actionable intelligence. Zurich insite from Zurich Resilience Solutions (ZRS) brings global expertise and best-in-class risk engineering to the forefront of building management. This small observer device is already helping organisations cut energy use, monitor carbon consumption and reduce their environmental impact in real-world settings.
Case study 1: Office buildings
- Challenge: High energy use due to inefficient heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) operations and misaligned heating schedules.
- Solution: Data analysis revealed that heating could start later and end earlier, reducing unnecessary energy use.
- Outcome: Achieved energy savings of 10-15%, supporting the organisation's sustainability targets.
Case study 2: Schools’ facilities management
- Challenge: Inefficient hot water heating and system operations during off-hours.
- Solution: Adjusted operational settings based on data analysis, reducing hot water temperature and optimising system schedules.
- Outcome: Energy use reduced by 25% in the first year, enhancing sustainability and creating a better learning environment.
Want to learn more about how our global expertise, smart technology and proven processes can help your organisation achieve its ESG targets? Click the link below to find out more.
