Comparative Analysis of Sustainable Facility Management Strategies : Insights from Facility Managers in Germany and a Developing Country

Abstract

Professionals in the Real Estate and Construction industry, particularly facility managers, are increasingly prioritising sustainable building practices due to the negative impacts of building and the activities of its users on the environment. During the use phase, buildings account for 40% of global final energy use, waste generation, carbon emission, and consumption of natural resources, and to mitigate against these negative impacts; facility managers have adopted several strategies to address the environmental, ecological, and economic needs of the built environment. However, the strategies adopted by these professionals vary across different regions due to challenges, regulatory frameworks, and other influencing factors. This study aims to compare the similarities and differences between the SFM strategies adopted by Germany and a developing country, Nigeria. Additionally, it aims to investigate the challenges faced by facilities managers in developing regions and the lessons learned. The study reviewed five case studies in both countries and interviewed 11 FM experts to identify and group the various SFM strategies implemented in these areas according to GEFMA 160-e. It revealed that several SFM strategies have been implemented by these professionals to improve the ecological, economic, social-cultural, quality of service, and quality of FM organization. However, the gap in technology, economic disparities, challenges peculiar to each region, and social factors were responsible for some differences noticed in the strategies adopted in these two regions. Furthermore, FM professionals in developing regions face challenges such as the high cost of initiation, lack of awareness and training, resistance to change, and the lack of organizational strategy on sustainability, which impede the adoption and implementation of these SFM strategies. Finally, the lessons from this study were classified into five perspectives: contextual adaptation, regulatory environment, technological adoption, stakeholder engagement, and reporting and benchmarking. It is essential to adopt and implement sustainable strategies that are relevant, inclusive, and responsive to each specific need. Moreover, the adoption of these strategies by facilities managers further reinforces their contribution towards a greener and more environmentally friendly future.