Keep this story going! Share below!
BGIS is a facilities management company advancing sustainable building solutions aligned with UN climate goals. By using eco-friendly products and energy-saving systems, BGIS reduces their environmental impact and that of their many customers in Canada and globally. This commitment fosters healthier communities and workplaces.
BGIS is advancing sustainable practices in facilities management to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly (Climate Action) and (Good Health and Well-Being). A key innovative solution is their use of enzyme-based cleaners that are 100% natural and chemical-free. Unlike traditional cleaning products, these enzyme cleaners improve indoor air quality and reduce exposure to harmful substances, fostering healthier work environments. This approach directly supports SDG by promoting well-being while minimizing the environmental impact.
Additionally, BGIS has launched the Blue Zone initiative, which focuses on energy-efficient and sustainable building practices. Through this program, BGIS aims to reduce the carbon footprint of the buildings they manage by implementing energy conservation measures and advanced engineering solutions. By lowering carbon emissions, the Blue Zone initiative aligns with (Affordable and Clean Energy), helping clients operate more sustainably while contributing to global climate action efforts.
These initiatives demonstrate BGIS' commitment to the triple bottom line: financial, social, and environmental impact. By integrating sustainability into everyday operations and empowering clients to adopt greener practices, BGIS enhances its service offering and promotes positive change. This proactive approach sets a model for responsible corporate leadership, illustrating how businesses can contribute meaningfully to the SDGs and create a better world for future generations.
The leader of BGIS draws inspiration from a blend of personal experiences and a profound commitment to sustainability. Mr. Greidanus shared a pivotal moment when their Global CEO (i.e. Gord Hicks) recognized the impact of pesticides on children’s health at a school, sparking a movement within the company. The leader recounted, “He was concerned about their health and wellbeing... and that inspired him to think about our own business.” This reflection highlights how personal experiences can catalyze change within an organization, leading to innovative practices that prioritize community health. This resulted in the banning of pesticides for cosmetic purposes across their entire client base.
Additionally, Mr. Greidanus emphasizes the importance of engaging employees and clients in the mission of sustainability. He stated, “People want to be part of something bigger than the company,” underlining that a shared purpose can significantly enhance employee engagement and customer satisfaction. This collective commitment drives BGIS to foster a family-like culture, where employees or as they are referred to as team members feel invested in their work and its impact on society.
Mr. Greidanus also articulated the importance of anticipating our customer’s needs and proactive change in the business landscape, saying, “If the customer asks us for something, we are too late in delivering it, but we can create real value when we anticipate the need.” This forward-thinking approach allows BGIS to not only meet client expectations but also to lead the industry in sustainable practices.
Through these reflections, it is evident that Mr. Greidanus is motivated by a desire to foster a healthier planet and community while encouraging a culture of engagement and innovation within the organization.
The innovative initiatives implemented by BGIS, particularly the Blue Zone Building initiative, have led to significant short-term and long-term impacts on sustainability and community health. Launched as part of their broader commitment to environmental responsibility, this initiative focuses on constructing energy-efficient buildings that align with their sustainable practices. In the short-term, BGIS has set an ambitious goal of certifying 100 Blue Zone buildings within a year. They have exceeded this target, completing 105 buildings, which demonstrates their capacity for rapid implementation and the immediate impact of their sustainable practices on the built environment.
In the long term, the effects of these innovations extend beyond just numbers. The cessation of pesticide use in their landscaping services reflects a deep-seated commitment to health and wellness, driven by the the Global CEO’s concern for community wellbeing. This change not only enhances the safety of the environments where BGIS operates but also sets a precedent within the industry, encouraging clients to adopt similar sustainable practices. Evidence of the long-term impact is reflected in their employee engagement scores and client satisfaction metrics, which have seen substantial improvements due to the alignment of business operations with social and environmental values.
Moreover, BGIS' focus on energy conservation and the introduction of enzyme-based cleaners further highlight their commitment to reducing the carbon footprint. These initiatives contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and (Climate Action), showcasing the company's role in driving systemic change toward a more sustainable future.
BGIS' innovative initiatives, particularly through the Blue Zone Building initiative and the elimination of harmful pesticides, have generated substantial business benefits. By prioritizing sustainability, BGIS has attracted a growing client base that values environmental responsibility, allowing the company to open new markets. For instance, the shift to energy-efficient buildings has positioned BGIS as a leader in the facilities management sector, resulting in increased revenue from new contracts driven by client demand for eco-friendly solutions.
Moreover, BGIS' commitment to employee wellbeing has led to higher employee retention rates. By fostering a culture emphasizing social responsibility and team dynamics, employees feel valued and connected to a greater purpose. This engagement translates into improved job satisfaction and loyalty, reducing hiring costs and enhancing service delivery through experienced staff. High retention rates contribute to increased productivity, as satisfied employees are more motivated to contribute positively to company goals.
Furthermore, BGIS’ focus on sustainability has created new investment opportunities by attracting partners and stakeholders who align with their values. This strategy has solidified their market position and opened doors for collaborations that enhance their service offerings. By doing so, BGIS not only drives growth but also expands its positive impact in the industry, showcasing how responsible business practices can lead to financial success while fostering environmental and social well-being.
BGIS’ innovative commitment to sustainability has significant societal and environmental benefits, particularly through their initiative to eliminate harmful pesticides. This movement began when the Global CEO became concerned about pesticide use in local schools, prompting BGIS to phase out these chemicals in their landscaping services. This initiative, established over 20 years ago, has not only improved community health and safety but also set a responsible precedent for environmental stewardship in the facilities management industry.
Additionally, BGIS' focus on energy conservation through the Blue Zone Building initiative highlights their dedication to reducing buildings’ carbon footprints. By constructing energy-efficient buildings, BGIS aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and (Climate Action). The company has successfully completed over 100 energy-efficient buildings, which significantly lowers energy consumption and environmental impact.
BGIS also engages local communities by promoting awareness of sustainable practices. The use of enzyme-based cleaners and eco-friendly products improves indoor air quality and enhances the health of the environments they manage. This focus on operational excellence and community involvement underscores BGIS' role as a catalyst for positive change, showcasing their commitment to creating healthier living and working spaces. Through these efforts, BGIS demonstrates how businesses can effectively contribute to societal well-being and environmental sustainability.
Get stories of positive business innovations from around the world delivered right to your inbox.
BGIS is a global leader in facilities management, dedicated to ensuring the efficient and sustainable operation of buildings and infrastructure. Established in Canada during the 1990s, the company has expanded its research to oversee more than 90,000 properties around the world. With a strong emphasis on energy efficiency and innovative, technology-driven solutions, BGIS caters to a diverse range of clients, including telecommunications, financial services, government offices, healthcare, and secure data centers.
Their comprehensive services encompass everything from routine maintenance to advanced energy-saving initiatives, all designed to help clients reduce resource consumption and operational costs. BGIS has long been recognized for its commitment to sustainability, implementing carbon-reduction strategies and eco-friendly cleaning practices to create greener work environments. In essence, BGIS leverages technology, sustainable practices, and industry expertise to ensure properties are managed efficiently for the long haul while minimizing their carbon footprint and impact on people and the environment.