Climate change is happening, and we are way past the point of denying so. As our economic reality needs to fit into the carrying capacity of Mother Earth, it proves trickier than ever for companies to take into account both a healthy planet and professional growth. From its very beginning, MeetDistrict has focused on providing a sustainable work environment without compromising on quality, and even strives to become climate neutral by 2030. How so? Have a look at some concrete examples.

1. Biodegradable tableware and recycling partners

Apart from inox cutlery and a Dopper bottle for every new Member, MeetDistrict only offers disposable tableware. And for good reason, since the daily cleaning of huge amounts of reusable utensils is not by far sustainable. Instead, sugar cane plates and Poly Lactic Acid cups are offered which completely dissolve within 90 days after being disposed of, delivering their final exploit as compost material. For paper towels and hot beverage cups, MeetDistrict turned to Nespresso and Tork who carry out a strict sustainability and recycling programme. Because both suppliers carefully collect their products to ensure a clean recycling process, Members and visitors are asked to dispose of their paper towels and coffee and tea cups in separate designated bins at every MeetDistrict location.

2. Green and non-nuclear electricity

All electricity used at MeetDistrict is exclusively green and non-nuclear. MeetDistrict Diegem in particular is a location that is almost solely run on 100% renewable electricity. Moreover, electricity at this location is produced through an underground magnetic field, which is a more sustainable way to generate energy than having to rely on air flows from outside. For the other locations, preliminary studies have been set up to eventually make the transition to heat pumps instead of natural gas too.

3. Optimal use of HVAC systems

HVAC stands for heating, ventilation and air conditioning, and is immensely important for your general health. That is why every day thousands of cubic metres of fresh air are pumped into all MeetDistrict locations, making HVAC its biggest energy guzzler. To keep its environmental impact as small as possible, the systems in place are made optimal use of. Firstly, by making use of condensation boilers or recycled energy coming from the ring main in MeetDistrict Gent. Secondly, by avoiding excessive energy consumption.

4. Knowledge is power

The combination of smart infrastructure and strong building management systems enables MeetDistrict to implement the optimal usage of its energy consumers. The permanently monitored and continually optimised systematisation gives an idea on exactly the time and amount of energy needed to facilitate a space, clearing the way for a complete automatisation of conditional facilities in the future.

5. ISO certification

MeetDistrict commits to no less than three different ISO certificates: ISO 9001, ISO 45001 and ISO 50001. The first standing for quality, proving to respect the legal framework concerning environmental procedures. The second for safety and health, proving to ensure healthy work conditions. The latter for energy and power management, proving to both monitor and optimise energy consumption, as well as to reduce it as much as possible.

Conclusion

Granted: combining sustainability with quality, luxury and comfort is not at all an easy task. But in no way does MeetDistrict let the one rule out the other. By turning to environmentally responsible suppliers, keeping itself in check, maintaining proper observation, and constantly optimising the existing systems at hand, MeetDistrict is right on course to achieve their goal of becoming a 100% sustainable and renewable force to be reckoned with.