ESGGreen Certifications
Invest in Growth: Urban Farms Outpace Traditional Assets
Discover how urban farming investments are delivering returns that surpass traditional real estate assets.
How wellness certifications like WELL and Fitwel improve building performance and occupant health.
Improving Buildings through WELL & Fitwel Certifications
The built environment plays a significant role in shaping the health and well-being of building occupants. Wellness certifications like WELL and Fitwel are gaining popularity as they provide a framework for designing and operating buildings that prioritize occupant health and productivity.
WELL (Well Building Standard) is an evidence-based system that focuses on seven categories: air, water, light, materials, noise, thermal comfort, and personal space. By incorporating WELL features into building design, owners can improve occupant satisfaction, reduce absenteeism, and increase employee retention.
The Benefits of Fitwel Certification
Fitwel is a certification program that evaluates buildings based on their ability to promote occupant health and well-being. The program assesses factors such as water quality, indoor air quality, and access to natural light and outdoor spaces. By achieving Fitwel certification, building owners can demonstrate their commitment to creating healthy environments for occupants.
Both WELL and Fitwel certifications require a thorough assessment of the building's design, construction, and operations. This process identifies areas for improvement and provides a roadmap for implementing changes that enhance occupant health and well-being.
Case Studies: Successful Implementations
Several notable buildings have achieved WELL or Fitwel certification, showcasing the positive impact on occupant health and productivity. For example, the Bank of America Tower in New York City achieved WELL Gold Certification by incorporating features such as natural ventilation, improved air quality, and enhanced water conservation.
- The WELL Building Standard has been adopted by over 1,000 buildings worldwide
- Fitwel-certified buildings have reported a 10% increase in occupant satisfaction
- WELL- and Fitwel-certified buildings can command higher rents and sale prices
See how on-site farms feed the major certifications in our ESG-aligned urban farming guide, and what that means for commercial real estate.
As the demand for healthy buildings continues to grow, it's essential for building owners and operators to consider incorporating WELL and Fitwel certifications into their design and operations strategies, as outlined in our green building certifications guide.