How Window Films Promote Green Initiatives

Buildings account for 76% of electric usage and 40% of the United States’ primary energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. Among the high-energy-consuming components of such buildings are HVAC systems, lighting, major appliances, and electronics. 

Given commercial buildings’ massive share of energy use, builders, owners, and tenants must take green initiatives seriously and take steps to reduce their environmental impact. Doing so will help the environment and reduce expenses, making it a win-win for everyone. 

One simple yet highly effective way to do this is by installing solar window films. The logic is pretty straightforward. Heat and cold penetrate buildings through the windows. It is, therefore, vital to treat windows with films to moderate the temperature inside the building and benefit from it in various ways.

How Solar Window Films Impact Sustainability

Installing window films may seem like a simple initiative to truly make an impact. But a simple change goes a long way.  

Reduced Energy Consumption and Carbon Footprint 

Window films reduce heat by up to 80% during intense summers, according to the International Window Film Association. They also improve insulation for interiors, which tempers the chill during colder months. 

With less heat and cold entering the building, utility expenses for air conditioning and heating are significantly reduced. Window films with high thermal reduction performance may even eliminate the need for air conditioning. 

Also, with window films, building owners and tenants can do away with blinds or curtains. This maximizes the amount of natural light coming in without the harmful heat and glare, thus reducing the need for interior lighting. 

All these lead to lower energy consumption and environmental impact. With greater comfort, a smaller carbon footprint, and greater savings on utility costs, installing window films proves to be a sound decision for people, profitability, and the planet. 

Sun Protection

Similar to how sunscreen blocks UV rays to protect skin from harm, window films have UV blockers that absorb these harmful rays and convert them into energy.

They also contain compounds that can reflect up to 97% of infrared light. For example, metal-based window films use aluminum to reflect infrared light back and away from the building’s interior. Ceramic-coated film can absorb and convert these rays. 

Being protected from heat, glare, and harmful sun rays can significantly increase the level of comfort in the workplace. This can help boost productivity wherever you install window films.

UV Blocking Comparison 

Window Feature	Amount of UV Light Blocked
Clear, single pane glass (⅛ to ¼ inches thick)	23% to 28%
Insulated glass	36% to 41%
Glass with window films	95% to 99%

How Excessive UV Rays Cause Harm

Extended exposure to the UV and infrared radiation from the sun can cause sunburn, increased skin cancer risk, eye damage, premature aging, plant damage, infrastructure damage like plastic warping, paint discoloration, cracking, asphalt damage, and many others. 

Using window films for better building efficiency goes beyond green initiatives. It also protects the health of all humans and other living things. Consider it a must-have feature for commercial, industrial, or residential windows. 

Waste Reduction

Window films reduce discoloration and cracking in structures and damage to office properties like furniture and carpets. Installing them promotes sustainability and waste reduction because they extend the lifespan of these structures and materials.

There is less need to repaint buildings and replace windows, which means minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, buildings like corporate offices, schools, malls, hotels, restaurants, and other commercial and institutional buildings contribute significantly to material waste. 

It’s high time for companies and institutions to take the lead in promoting green initiatives by taking measures big and small in their building and implementing practices. Simple steps like installing window films and developing a robust waste management program can make big differences. 

Residential communities can also do their part by making window films standard for homes. 

Advantages of Green Initiatives to Companies

Many companies and institutions are now recognizing the need and the benefits of going green, starting with their buildings. The statistics on green initiatives are compelling, and it’s proving to be the way to go if we are to survive as a people sharing one planet. 

Cost Savings

One of the more obvious benefits of having environmentally sound initiatives for companies is the amount of savings that come with reducing energy consumption and waste. Savings impact the bottom line and improve a company’s financial position in the long term.

The American Hotel and Lodging Association reports that using window films has reduced their energy consumption by 10%. A 300-room hotel’s annual savings based on the Department of Energy’s energy-saving calculator amounted to  $19,219. 

Actual energy savings for a typical building varies and may reach as high as 30% depending on the condition of the building, the quality of the window film, the installation process, and the maintenance of window films over time. 

Better Operational Efficiency

When resource efficiency is improved, companies can operate more effectively. This results in higher work output without necessarily increasing energy consumption.

Managing resources like manpower, money, and machines through green initiatives benefit the company in more ways than one. For example, workers feel comfortable in favorable working conditions, like moderate temperatures and a well-lit office. A study has shown that productivity decreases by 2% per degree as the temperature rises above 25 degrees Celsius.

Enhanced Corporate Image

Implementing environmentally conscious practices in the workplace speaks a lot about the company’s values. Demonstrating genuine concern for the welfare of future generations appeals to consumers because caring for the planet is a shared responsibility. 

Big companies adding their voice to this cause can influence other organizations and individuals to do the same. A positive image also boosts a brand’s trustworthiness and attractiveness to stakeholders. 

Competitive Advantage

As more people become drawn to mindful living and eco-conscious choices, companies with robust green initiatives can position themselves as a brand that environmentally aware consumers can trust and partner with. Customers find it easier to form an affinity with your brand because of a shared advocacy—they are more inclined to choose what you offer. 

Better Employer Branding

Environmentally responsible companies also attract and retain more employees. According to a report, 26% of people are willing to transfer to a more environmentally sustainable company. 

Maintaining an organizational culture that underscores sustainability results in better employee attraction, retention, and satisfaction. It can be an effective way to engage employees and boost their morale by giving them an opportunity to participate in these meaningful practices. 

Regulatory Compliance

Developing and implementing a green initiative program ensures companies comply with environmental regulations. This can boost the institution’s corporate reputation and prevent fines and penalties. 

This is also beneficial for businesses because governments are more inclined to trust companies that promote sustainability as partners for government contracts. 

Access to Funding

Governments are now offering incentives for green companies, such as low-interest loans, tax credits, grants, and green loans. Green loans are a form of financing that enables borrowers to fund their green projects. Development banks like the World Bank and other financial institutions offer them to support the transition to a more sustainable world.  

More and more states are enacting legislation to encourage green building techniques on the commercial level. These endeavors are sure to benefit businesses and local communities alike.

Opening Windows to Environmental Stewardship

Many benefits hinge on having green initiatives in residential, commercial, or industrial buildings. According to the Alliance to Save Energy, having high-efficiency windows is one of the proven ways to promote decarbonization in buildings. 

A growing awareness of the need to make our structures energy efficient has led architects and developers to design and build structures that foster comfort, cost efficiency, and environmental consciousness. 

While sophisticated recycling and waste management systems, water conservation, urban agriculture, and renewable energy programs are excellent planet care solutions, the public can begin their green initiatives journey by taking small steps. One excellent example is installing window films. 

This mindful act can have a huge impact on sustainability, especially when maintained well over time. Stick Pretty recognizes this and offers a range of window films that help reduce the need for extra heating or cooling, provide much-needed privacy, and add an aesthetic appeal to homes and workplaces.  

Filter Out Sun Rays, Welcome Savings and Sustainability

It’s time to make a smart choice for your home or office interiors. Installing window films can bring you savings on utilities, increased functionality and efficiency within your walls, greater comfort and safety, and turn your green initiatives from ideas into effective action.

For premium-grade window films of various patterns and materials to go with your interior theme, visit Stick Pretty today. Choose from one of many window films that will suit your office or home space. There are many options: classic, contemporary, and everything in between. 

Going green is always a good idea!