This article originally appeared on http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au
GREEN office spaces are growing fast and they not only look good, but have a positive impact on workers.
WWF in Ultimo has signed up to a City of Sydney led program, which recently clocked up its 500th member.
The CitySwitch Green Office program works with organisations committed to making a positive impact on climate change through simple changes to waste and energy efficiency in the office.
WWF human resources director, Kimberly Dixon, said features such as natural light, good ventilation and clean, fresh air had shown an improvement in the health and happiness of employees.
“Green office spaces can help optimise the people as well as the space, and our workers have reported they feel happy in their new environment,” she said.
“Natural light, open plan layout with lots of plants, standing desks and informal meeting places all promote a collaborative team environment, encouraging movement, healthy work practices and a constructive workplace culture.”
National manager of the program, Esther Bailey, said CitySwitch members are slashing carbon emissions, and workers report they are experiencing increased job satisfaction through fun ‘green office’ competitions and the healthier work environment.
“Many of our members have reported to us that great work spaces reduce sick days, staff turnover, costs, and improve productivity,” she said.
The 500th member was the Victorian Department of Education and Early Childhood Development.
The program now represents 12 per cent of all Australia’s city centre office space with recent joiners in NSW including the State Library NSW, Echo Entertainment Group and Fujitsu.
For more information go to cityswitch.net.au.
