Building operations are responsible for 30 percent of global final energy consumption and 26 percent of global energy-related emissions, according to the latest findings from the International Energy Agency (IEA).¹ These concerning statistics are coupled with the IEA’s prediction that by 2030, global floor area is expected to increase by an estimated 15 percent, which is equivalent to the entire built floor area of North America.² More floor area to heat and cool equals more energy consumed.
These numbers remind us that “energy efficiency” and “sustainability” are not just buzzwords thrown around during industry discussions – they are real areas of concern with many different stakeholders, including building owners, facility managers and building users. After all, pressing issues such as climate change and rising energy costs are high priorities for many.