“Transforming the Built Environment: Facility Managers Call for Sustainable Solutions to Combat Climate Change” – Adomonline.com

The Ghana chapter of the International Facility Management Association (IFMA) recently highlighted the critical need for innovative designs in building management due to rising global temperatures. As climate change becomes a pressing issue, professionals in the construction industry must adapt to ensure buildings remain functional and efficient.

At a recent event celebrating World FM Day in Kumasi, experts stressed how climate change impacts building structures and overall maintenance. Associate Professor Eric Paul Tudzi from KNUST emphasized the need for facility managers to collaborate with architects. He believes that incorporating sustainable designs can help maintain comfortable indoor climates and improve overall building strength.

“Climate change affects room temperatures, which can reduce productivity. By leveraging the natural environment, we can cut electricity costs and enhance energy efficiency. These adjustments are essential for both business performance and quality of life,” he noted.

The theme of this year’s World FM Day, “Resilience in Action: Thriving in a World of Change,” underscored the Facility Management (FM) profession’s role in creating sustainable built environments.

Sampson Opare-Agyemang, president of IFMA Ghana, called on the government to improve training for facility management professionals. He pointed out that with climate disruptions increasing and infrastructures aging, the role of facility managers becomes even more crucial. “These professionals ensure stability and sustainability in our communities,” he said.

According to a recent survey by the Global Facility Management Association, nearly 60% of facility managers agree that climate change has significantly affected their operations. This highlights the urgency for adaptation and training in this field.

Dr. Oti Amankwah, a senior lecturer at Kumasi Technical University, explained that facility managers do much more than just maintaining buildings. They play vital roles in strategic planning, technology integration, and ensuring a healthy environment for occupants.

As we face the ongoing challenges from climate change, the work of facility managers will be essential in shaping a sustainable future. For further insights into the impact of climate change on facility management, you can explore this World Economic Forum report on sustainable infrastructure.

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