Although most of the emissions from facilities are generated during construction and energy use, the operation, upkeep, and maintenance of buildings also have a significant impact on their life cycle carbon footprint. On average, the repairs and replacement of building components account for about 10–15 per cent of the building’s total life cycle emissions. That is why choices related to the operation and maintenance of facilities are crucial in climate work.
Energy consumption in buildings
The electricity and heat used in buildings account for roughly a third of our total emissions. The way energy is produced has a major impact on a building’s emissions. We have already stopped using oil heating in our buildings, and the backup heating systems use biodiesel. In addition, the electricity we use is already produced with renewable energy sources.
Switching to renewable energy sources, such as wind energy, geothermal energy, or green district heating, reduces dependence on fossil fuels and lowers the operational carbon footprint of buildings. On-site energy production, such as solar power, supports this goal. We also produce local energy with solar panels, and geothermal heating systems have been implemented in churches and residential properties.
We have already improved energy efficiency
There are many ways to improve energy efficiency. Good insulation and energy-efficient devices reduce energy consumption. For example, replacing insulation can lower heating energy needs by up to 10 per cent, and improving heat recovery in ventilation systems can cut energy use by up to 20 per cent. Another effective measure is switching to LED lighting, which can reduce electricity consumption by up to 30 per cent.
We have already implemented several measures to improve energy efficiency. Moving forward, a long-term plan will be developed for the properties to ensure that energy efficiency measures are carried out consistently and systematically. New solutions will first be tested at individual sites to gain experience before wider implementation.
Efficient use of facilities reduces energy consumption
How the facilities are used affects how much energy is consumed in the buildings and how much cleaning, maintenance, or repairs are needed. By using facilities efficiently and favoring so-called shared spaces, the need for new facilities decreases. This, in turn, reduces emissions both from construction and maintenance. In addition, multi-purpose space solutions and standardised booking and access control practices can reduce the need to travel and the associated emissions.
Regular and systematic maintenance can extend the lifespan of a building, reduce the need for repairs, and improve energy efficiency. Energy consumption can be reduced, for example, by ensuring ventilation systems are clean, optimising heating systems and room temperatures, and using smart control solutions. Choices of materials and spare parts can also affect how much new production is needed – and how much emissions are generated. When choosing a device, you should take into account the energy efficiency and repairability of the device.
Optimising room temperatures is an important part of energy efficiency and user comfort. Temperatures that are too high increase energy consumption and emissions, while temperatures that are too low can reduce comfort and well-being at work. Smart thermostats, automated control systems, and room-specific temperature control help to maintain optimal temperatures in different situations. By adjusting the indoor temperature correctly, you can also ensure healthy indoor air quality.
Water consumption varies depending on the use of the facility and the number of users, especially in sanitary and kitchen areas. The material choices in maintenance and repairs, as well as logistics, also affect the facility’s carbon footprint. Therefore, optimizing the use of buildings and improving energy efficiency are key ways to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from facilities.
Recycling – an everyday eco-action
One concrete and easy way to narrow the sustainability gap is to adopt the principles of the circular economy. By recycling, meaning collecting and sorting used materials and products for reuse or processing them into new products, we save natural resources, reduce waste, and lower our carbon footprint.
In Helsinki’s parishes and shared services, progress has been already made in promoting recycling and the use of recycled materials, for example in purchasing, but there is always room for improvement. In the future, clear and accessible recycling instructions will be made for all facilities in multiple languages. The instructions will provide sorting instructions not only for mixed waste but also for plastic, cardboard, paper, metal, glass, bio-waste, and, when necessary, also electrical and electronic device waste.
Reuse and remanufacturing of devices
In addition to reusing materials, the reuse of devices can also be promoted. Decommissioned devices are evaluated to determine whether they can be reused as-is or sent for remanufacturing. Remanufacturing means that devices are refurbished and updated to meet current requirements, thus extending their life cycle and reducing their environmental impact. Parts from dismantled devices and systems are also reused as spare parts in other location with similar devices.
User choice matter
We, as the users of our facilities, play a big role. How we operate in facilities affects energy consumption, the amount of water used, and the need for cleaning and repairs. Everyday choices have a direct impact on the environmental load of the facility.
Users can make an impact in the following ways:
- Saving energy: By turning off lights and appliances when leaving the building, taking advantage of natural light and avoiding unnecessary heating or cooling.
- Reducing water consumption: Using water sparingly and reporting leaking taps or other issues.
- Efficient use of spaces: By minimising the underuse of spaces and favouring shared ones, users can reduce the need for maintenance and energy.
- Waste sorting and recycling: Properly sorted waste reduces the environmental impact and supports the building’s sustainability goals. Sorting waste can also lead to cost savings.
- Reporting disturbances and damage promptly: This helps prevent major repairs and saves resources in the long run.
Active participation by users in sustainable facility management supports the energy efficiency of the building and reduces its carbon footprint. When each user acts responsibly, the impact is multiplied across the entire building and contributes to broader climate and environmental goals.