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World FM Day

The Importance of Facility Management (FM) in Building Carbon Management

Mota-Engil ATIV Marks World FM Day by Highlighting the Importance of Waste Reduction, Resource Optimization, and Promoting Sustainability

In recent years, the growing concern over climate change and the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions have placed buildings at the forefront of environmental discussions. Buildings are responsible for a significant portion of global carbon emissions due to their high energy consumption and daily operations. In this context, Facility Management (FM) emerges as a key element in reducing the carbon footprint of buildings. Often underestimated, FM plays a fundamental role in implementing strategies and practices that promote energy efficiency and building sustainability.

Energy Efficiency, Resource Optimization, Maintenance and Proactive Management

FM plays a crucial role in the efficient management of resources in buildings, with one of its main areas of focus being the optimization of energy usage. Facility managers are involved in the monitoring and control of HVAC, lighting, and other energy-consuming infrastructure. By implementing efficient energy management practices, such as scheduling lighting and HVAC systems based on occupancy, installing efficient equipment, and identifying water leaks, Facility Management has a direct impact on associated carbon emissions, not only reducing operating costs but also playing a crucial role in mitigating climate change.

Proactive facility maintenance is an essential component of carbon management. FM ensures that equipment and systems in buildings operate in an optimized manner. Preventive and predictive maintenance not only extend the lifespan of systems and facilities but also ensure their operation at maximum efficiency, reducing waste. Sure, here is the translation of the Portuguese phrase into English: Preventing the premature replacement of components and parts not only avoids unexpected failures that result in additional consumption but also prevents the associated increase in emissions.

Implementing Sustainable Strategies

Facility Management (FM) extends beyond physical building maintenance to play a strategic role in implementing sustainable policies, including promoting an organizational culture of sustainability, educating employees, and engaging stakeholders to adopt best practices. Technological advancements are revolutionizing Facility Management. The introduction of smart sensors, automation systems, and data analytics has enabled more precise and efficient management of building operations, contributing to a reduction in carbon emissions.

Monitoring and Continuous Improvement

Continuous monitoring and data analysis are fundamental aspects of carbon management. FM can implement environmental performance monitoring systems in buildings, tracking energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and other relevant metrics. Based on this information, FM can identify opportunities for improvement and implement corrective measures to further optimize the environmental performance of buildings.