Gensler's Environmental Strategy Shapes a Greener Future

Globally renowned in the realm of architecture and design, Gensler stands as a titan. It's not just its size but its innovative drive that places it at the forefront of the industry.

With the accolade of being the world's largest firm in architecture, measured both in revenue and the number of architects, Gensler's portfolio is impressive.

A highlight is the Shanghai Tower, boasting a tiered design for optimal energy efficiency and mixed-use spaces.

Additionally, in the wake of Notre-Dame's tragic fire, Gensler unveiled a remarkable temporary structure for the site's spiritual continuity.

Since its inception in 1965, this San Francisco-based powerhouse has consistently worked towards transforming the world through design – a mission that also fuels its commitment to sustainability.

Leading the sustainable building revolution

As the climate crisis intensifies, Gensler is at the vanguard of sustainable building, broadening its Gensler Product Sustainability (GPS) standards.

Now encompassing 20 categories of building products and furniture, this move represents a significant stride towards greener construction practices.

The aim? To curb the environmental impact throughout the building material supply chain.

With the construction sector accounting for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions annually, Gensler's GPS standards are a game changer.

They ensure sustainability performance across the staggering 1.25 billion square feet of space designed by Gensler each year, standardising environmental impact measurement methods and focusing on reducing carbon emissions from materials and construction processes.

“The time to specify lower-carbon materials is now, as clients increasingly focus on meeting their sustainability goals and reducing their overall carbon footprints,” said Katie Mesia, Principal and Senior Sustainability Director at Gensler.

“This approach not only addresses immediate client needs but also signals to the market that sustainable solutions are no longer optional — they're essential to the future of design.” 

With more than 2,800 products scrutinised for GPS compliance and training provided to more than 1,500 Gensler designers and 1,000 third-party manufacturers, Gensler is propelling the industry towards improved environmental performance for interior products and furniture.

“Gensler’s global impact and reach allows the firm to send a powerful market signal in support of better environmental performance for interior products and furniture,” said David Briefel, Gensler's Principal and Climate Action and Sustainability Studio Director and co-author of GPS.

“GPS Standards are set up to reward manufacturers for making the necessary decisions to move the industry toward a more sustainable future.”  

GPS: Pioneering efficiency

The introduction of the GPS standards marks a pivotal moment for climate technology in the architectural sector.

By offering a data-driven methodology for assessing and mitigating environmental impact, these standards, launched in August 2023 and implemented in January 2024, exemplify climate tech in action.

This strategic initiative not only reflects Gensler's commitment to its own environmental goals but also raises the bar for sustainability across architectural and design practices worldwide.

Make sure you check out the latest edition of Energy Digital Magazine and also sign up to our global conference series - Sustainability LIVE 2024

Energy Digital is a BizClik brand.