Cost perceptions for green infrastructure projects can often lead to concerns about the return on investment from green walls and facades.
However, there are measurable benefits you can expect from investing in well-designed and constructed green infrastructure.
Here are some examples – from tangible cost savings to improvements in staff productivity.
1. Reduced energy costs
Studies at the University of Genoa show it’s possible to achieve significantly reduced energy bills during summer from external green walls or facades – largely due to their ability to cool a building by several degrees.
Reduced energy costs were also shown to occur during winter, although to a less significant degree.
2. Higher potential real estate yields
Improved insulation, energy efficiency and air quality through green infrastructure can potentially translate to greater rental potential and value of residential, commercial and retail buildings.
3. Benefits for workers
Studies have found multiple benefits of greenery in an office space. These include:
- Higher productivity: Research at Cardiff University indicates productivity improvements of up to 15% in ‘greened’ offices.
- Better air quality and health: Greenery in a workplace can improve air quality by absorbing pollutants such as volatile organic compounds. This helps reduce what is known as “sick building syndrome”, in turn improving worker health and retention.
- Better memory and recall: Texas A&M University studies show greenery in the office can improve concentration and memory of workers by as much as 20%.
Factors that contribute to ROI
To gain the desired return on investment, it’s essential your green infrastructure project is not only well-designed and engineered from the start, but also maintained to ensure its longevity and performance.
It’s also important to note that your level of return on investment will depend on various factors – such as the building itself, local climate, site conditions, the type of green infrastructure project and so on.
If you have a green facade project in mind and would like to discuss your potential for return on investment, feel free to get in touch with us for a consultation.
