2026 Sustainability Trends Every Facility Manager Needs to Know

Discover the top 5 sustainability trends facility managers need to know in 2026—from performance standards to IAQ, refrigerants, and more.

Ava Montini

Jan 20, 2026

Written by

Published on

A new year, new pressures

For facility and energy managers, 2026 is not just another lap around the operations cycle. The stakes are rising across the built environment: carbon targets are evolving from voluntary goals to enforceable standards, utility grids are growing more dynamic, and your systems are being asked to deliver more than comfort—they’re being asked to demonstrate climate performance.

This change comes at a moment when global energy demand is accelerating. In 2024, energy demand rose 2.2% globally (faster than the decade-long average), while electricity demand jumped 4.3%, driven by electrification, extreme weather, and digital growth. IEA In the buildings sector alone, electricity use increased by over 600 TWh (5%), accounting for nearly 60% of total growth in global electricity use. IEA Blob Storage And forecasts suggest this upward trend will continue: the U.S. Energy Information Administration projects that global energy consumption will grow through 2050, outpacing efficiency gains unless stronger policies intervene. EIA

The challenge is that these changes don’t arrive all at once or in obvious ways. They show up gradually—through updated codes, shifting tariffs, new equipment standards, and increasing expectations from tenants and investors. The upside is that facility and energy managers, once working mostly behind the scenes, are now central to turning sustainability commitments into measurable results.

Here are five sustainability trends shaping 2026, and why each matters for the decisions you’ll make in your mechanical rooms, dashboards, and boardrooms.

1. Building Performance Standards Move from Paper to Practice

A decade ago, sustainability reporting was a quarterly or annual exercise filed internally or sent to corporate. Today, Building Performance Standards (BPS) are shifting that paradigm: they tie a building’s actual energy use and emissions to regulatory thresholds, making performance more than just a nice-to-have.

Across the U.S., BPS and similar mandates now exist in nine localities and three states, with penalties or compliance mechanisms for underperforming buildings. (ACEEE) In Canada, cities like Vancouver have already adopted performance standards, and other municipalities are actively exploring similar rules. (Efficiency Canada) Natural Resources Canada also recognizes that BPS policies enable jurisdictions to regulate energy or emissions in existing buildings. (Natural Resources Canada)

Europe is several steps ahead. Through the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, member states are required to set minimum energy performance standards for existing buildings and align them with long-term decarbonization goals. That trajectory suggests North America is likely to follow a similar path, with more cities and provinces phasing in binding performance requirements over the next decade.

For facility teams, this is a shift in mindset: hitting a design target isn’t enough. What matters now is day-to-day performance. Keeping HVAC systems tuned, filters low-pressure, ventilation right-sized, and carbon data tracked continuously.

Treat compliance not as a one-off capital project, but as a persistent operations program. Teams that build strong discipline in data, trending, and low-cost O&M measures (filter swaps, economizer tuning, drift checks) will free up budget (and carbon headroom) to take on higher-stakes retrofits later.

2. Grid-interactive buildings become the norm

The grid you’re tied into is no longer a fixed backdrop. It’s dynamic. As renewables rise, carbon intensity swings hour by hour. In many regions, the grid’s carbon intensity can vary by over 1,000 g CO₂/kWh between low and high hours. EnergyTag

This variability is why hourly accounting, not annual averages, is becoming the standard: studies find that relying solely on yearly emission factors can bias carbon inventories by as much as 35 %, especially in areas with high grid variability. itspubs.ucdavis.edu

For facility managers, your job isn’t just to reduce consumption, but rather to shift it. Running air handlers or pushing large loads at 3 p.m. on a carbon-intensive grid can erase much of the value of your efficiency gains. But shifting that same load to cleaner hours can multiply your CO₂e savings.

Buildings that provide demand flexibility (the ability to curtail, shift, or modulate loads) not only ease grid stress but also help integrate renewables and reduce emissions. ScienceDirect The U.S. DOE’s Grid-Interactive Efficient Buildings (GEB) initiative explicitly frames buildings as potential distributed energy resources (DERs) that can respond to grid signals. The Department of Energy's Energy

Facilities that align their systems with grid conditions will capture more carbon value, reduce costs, and position themselves for utility incentives and grid services.

3. Indoor Air Quality and Energy Are No Longer Trade-Offs

The pandemic showed that “just add more outside air” is not a sustainable strategy. It drove home the fact that healthier air doesn’t have to mean higher energy bills. In 2023, ASHRAE Standard 241 introduced the concept of Equivalent Clean Airflow (ECAi): a performance-based framework that lets you meet air quality targets with the right combination of ventilation, filtration, and air cleaning instead of defaulting to maximum outdoor air. (ASHRAE)

This matters even more in 2026 because the carbon penalty of over-ventilation is steep. Conditioning excess outside air can account for a significant share of building energy use, especially in regions with temperature or humidity extremes. U.S. EPA modelling has shown that raising outdoor air rates from 5 to 20 cfm per person can sharply increase HVAC energy costs, depending on the climate and system type. (EPA)

The opportunity is to deliver the same (or better) air quality at a lower energy cost. Low-pressure, high-efficiency filtration plays a central role here. Studies show that filter design, not just MERV rating, dictates pressure drop and energy impact. Well-engineered filters with optimized media and geometry can deliver higher capture efficiency at lower resistance than standard pleated filters, reducing fan energy while still supporting ASHRAE 241 clean-air goals. (ScienceDirect)

The play in 2026: pair low-pressure filtration with calibrated demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) and proven air cleaning technologies. Together, they provide safe indoor air with the lowest possible energy penalty. IAQ and carbon goals don’t have to compete. They can reinforce each other when filtration efficiency and system pressure are managed by design.

4. Refrigerant rules shift the replacement playbook

If you’re spec’ing new HVAC or refrigeration equipment in 2026, refrigerant selection matters just as much as capacity. Under the U.S. AIM Act, the EPA is phasing down production and consumption of high-GWP HFCs—aiming to cut them to just 15% of historic baseline levels by mid-2030s. US EPA That transition is pushing the market toward A2L (mildly flammable, low-GWP) alternatives like R-32 and R-454B. Energy Codes

For facility teams, two priorities stand out:

(1) Safety, training & codes readiness

A2L refrigerants bring new safety nuances. Contractors and service teams must be trained, and local codes (leak detection, ventilation, charge limits) must be understood and enforced. Manufacturers are already shifting product lines to A2Ls to align with the 2025 compliance timelines. Energy Codes

(2) Leak management as carbon strategy

Refrigerant emissions are Scope 1 emissions—direct, onsite greenhouse gas releases that come from leaks, servicing losses, or disposal. ASHE Because many HFCs have very high global warming potentials (GWP) (often hundreds to thousands of times higher than CO₂)a pound of refrigerant lost can translate into a large carbon penalty. GHG Protocol

Legacy systems may lose 20–30% of their refrigerant charge over time without an obvious performance impact. U.S. General Services Administration These silent leaks are hidden carbon drains, often overlooked in efficiency planning.

5. From Projects to Performance

Retrofitting systems may win attention, but the real win in 2026 is locking in performance over time. Field studies and commissioning guides show that, without sustained monitoring and correction, buildings can lose 10–30 % of their efficiency gains within a few years, due to drift, sensor faults, coil fouling, or control logic degradation.

Enter Monitoring-Based Commissioning (MBCx) and Fault Detection & Diagnostics (FDD). These aren’t big capital projects—they’re everyday practices that keep systems efficient. Research from ASME shows that automated fault detection in RTUs and HVAC systems can cut significant energy waste.

In one office building study, trend analytics flagged simultaneous heating and cooling, broken economizers, and poor control sequencing. Once fixed, the building’s energy use dropped by 10%. The takeaway is simple: continuous monitoring finds waste fast, and fixing it pays off immediately.

What this means for facility leaders in 2026:

Move away from treating projects as one-and-done.
Build dashboards that track energy, ventilation, fan motor indices, and carbon in parallel.
Use automated alerts to flag deviations in real time.
Make MBCx + FDD the standard part of your operations budget—not a side project.

Utility bills stay low, carbon footprints shrink, and your buildings stay compliant and efficient—without waiting for the next big retrofit.

2026 rewards operators

In 2026, sustainability progress will come from strong day-to-day operations. Facility and energy managers who focus on performance standards, grid-smart scheduling, healthy air, refrigerant planning, and continuous monitoring will find they already have the tools to deliver real results.

The equipment in your building doesn’t need to change overnight. What matters is how it’s managed. Every optimized filter, tuned control, and well-timed ventilation cycle adds up, lowering carbon, controlling costs, and building resilience.

This is the year where facility operations show their true strength: turning routine decisions into measurable sustainability gains.

The Business Case for Investing in Indoor Air Quality Management: Sustainability and ROI

Jennifer Crowley
Apr 24, 2024
6 min read

Updated: Jul 8, 2024

Male entrepreneur and his colleague developing new strategy and talking about new sustainability ideas in front of whiteboard. — Investing in Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) systems, with a sustainability-focused manufacturer, is a strategic approach to reducing a business's carbon footprint.

In today's corporate landscape, the emphasis on health, sustainability, and efficient management has never been greater. One critical area that is rapidly gaining attention is indoor air quality (IAQ). Companies like Blade Air are at the forefront of providing advanced IAQ solutions that not only enhance health and well-being but also offer compelling sustainability benefits and return on investment (ROI). This blog explores the business case for investing in indoor air quality management, focusing on sustainability and ROI.

Understanding Indoor Air Quality

Indoor air quality is a critical concern as poor IAQ is linked to a variety of health issues and decreased productivity. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Americans, on average, spend approximately 90% of their time indoors, where the concentrations of some pollutants are often 2 to 5 times higher than typical outdoor concentrations. Health Canada similarly highlights that Canadians spend close to 90% of their time inside; thus, indoor air quality is crucial for public health.

Sustainability Benefits

Reducing Carbon Footprint

Buildings are significant contributors to carbon emissions, with the EPA noting that commercial and residential buildings account for about 40% of total U.S. energy consumption. In Canada, the building sector accounts for 17% of secondary energy use and 12% of national greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, according to the Canada Green Building Council (CAGBC), buildings generate nearly 30% of all greenhouse gases, and 35% of landfill waste, while consuming up to 70% of municipal water.

Investing in Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) systems, with a sustainability-focused manufacturer, is a strategic approach to reducing a business's carbon footprint. This can be achieved through several mechanisms that enhance energy efficiency and promote sustainability. Here’s a detailed look at how improved IAQ contributes to these goals:

1. Energy Efficient HVAC Systems

Modern IAQ-focused systems often integrate with or enhance the efficiency of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. These advanced IAQ systems use energy-efficient technologies such as variable speed drives and smart thermostats that adjust the heating and cooling based on real-time indoor air quality data. This means the systems work only as hard as necessary to maintain optimal air quality, avoiding overuse of energy.

2. Improved Air Filtration and Circulation

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters and other advanced filtration technologies can improve the cleanliness and circulation of indoor air. Cleaner air reduces the load on HVAC systems, as less dust and fewer allergens mean the systems need less energy to push air through filters. Furthermore, improving the air distribution system's design to maximize circulation reduces the energy needed to achieve effective air exchange and maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.

3. Smart Building Management Systems

Integrating IAQ management with smart building systems can lead to significant energy savings. These smart systems can monitor various parameters, including carbon dioxide levels, humidity, and particulate matter, to optimize building ventilation and air conditioning systems dynamically. By using real-time data to adjust indoor environments, these systems reduce unnecessary HVAC operation, thus lowering energy consumption.

4. Reduced Need for Heating and Cooling

Good IAQ contributes to maintaining stable indoor temperatures. By optimizing airflow and removing pollutants that can impact perceived air quality and comfort, there is often less need to adjust the temperature. For example, removing excess humidity can make indoor environments feel cooler in summer without lowering the thermostat, thereby saving on air conditioning costs.

5. Demand-Controlled Ventilation

Demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) systems adjust the air volume being delivered based on the occupancy levels detected in different parts of the building. This means that energy isn’t wasted ventilating unoccupied or seldom-used spaces. DCV systems are particularly effective in large commercial buildings where occupancy can vary significantly throughout the day and week. Case studies have documented that buildings with properly implemented DCV systems can save up to 40% of their usual ventilation energy costs.

6. Long-Term Building Sustainability

Buildings with high standards of sustainability and energy efficiency may qualify for green building certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), which can further reduce operational costs and increase investment returns.

7. Regulatory Compliance and Incentives

Many regions are now introducing stricter regulations on building emissions and energy efficiency. Investing in IAQ can help businesses comply with these regulations and often makes them eligible for financial incentives or tax breaks provided for energy-efficient upgrades.

By reducing the energy demand for HVAC systems and leveraging smart technologies, businesses not only enhance their sustainability but also contribute to broader environmental goals such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In this way, investing in IAQ is not just a measure to improve indoor environmental quality but also a significant step towards achieving energy efficiency and sustainability in the corporate world.

Enhancing Building Efficiency

Energy-efficient IAQ systems improve thermal comfort and reduce the energy needed for heating and cooling. This not only cuts down on energy consumption but also contributes to sustainability goals. The Canadian government’s incentives for energy efficiency in buildings and the U.S. Department of Energy's guidelines on building energy standards underscore the importance of energy-efficient systems.

1. Energy Consumption:

High-quality IAQ systems can reduce energy use for heating and cooling by 10% to 30%, depending on the specific technology and the climate in which the building is located.

2. Energy Savings:

According to the U.S. EPA, HVAC systems can account for approximately 30-40% of the energy used in commercial buildings. By using energy-efficient IAQ systems, buildings can see a reduction in this energy consumption.

3. Thermal Comfort:

Improved IAQ can lead to a 10-70% increase in perceived thermal comfort, according to research studies. This can reduce the need for personal heaters or cooling fans, further saving energy.

4. Economic Incentives:

Energy-efficient investments, including IAQ improvements, can qualify for various incentives. For example, in British Columbia, Canada, the government offers the Business Energy Savings Incentives program, which can cover up to 25% of costs businesses incur while implementing energy-efficient equipment upgrades (lighting, HVAC, Refrigeration (including Energy Star®).

5. Cost Reduction:

Implementing IAQ improvements has shown an average of 20% savings on energy costs in buildings that upgrade from standard systems to high-efficiency systems.

6. Regulatory Compliance:

Buildings with better IAQ systems may also have an easier time complying with regulations like the Canadian National Energy Code for Buildings and the U.S. ASHRAE standards, potentially avoiding fines and other penalties.

Promoting Healthier Workplaces

The social aspect of sustainability—employee health and well-being—is a major benefit of good IAQ. A study published by the American Journal of Public Health found that improved indoor environmental quality doubled the respondents' effectiveness on cognitive tasks. Similarly, Canadian research indicates that better indoor air quality could reduce common symptoms of sick building syndrome, enhancing worker productivity and well-being.

Return on Investment (ROI)

Investing in the quality of the air within our spaces isn't just an investment in health—it's a strategic financial decision with tangible benefits. As we delve into the multifaceted ROI of IAQ improvements, we'll uncover how this unseen asset is yielding visible rewards, shaping the future of sustainable business practices and financial success:

1. Increased Productivity

Research by Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health reveals that cognitive function scores were significantly better in green building conditions compared to conventional building conditions. Applying these findings, companies in both Canada and the U.S. can see a direct correlation between enhanced IAQ and increased employee productivity.

2. Lower Health Costs

Improving IAQ can lead to lower health-related costs. Statistics from Health Canada show that Canadians spend over C$120 billion annually on health care, with a significant portion potentially related to poor indoor environments. In the U.S., the EPA reports similar findings, suggesting that improved IAQ could reduce national healthcare costs.

3. Higher Property Value

Enhanced IAQ features are increasingly recognized in property valuations. In both Canada and the U.S., buildings with sustainable features and better IAQ command higher prices and rents. For instance, ENERGY STAR-certified buildings in the U.S. report almost 10% higher rental rates than comparable properties.

4. Risk Management

In the context of increasing regulatory focus on building emissions and environmental impact, companies face significant risks. In both the U.S. and Canada, regulations around building emissions are tightening, and investing in good IAQ systems helps mitigate potential legal and compliance risks.

Conclusion

The case for investing in indoor air quality management is robust, supported by statistics from Canada and the U.S. Companies that invest in advanced IAQ solutions from providers like Blade Air not only improve their operational efficiency and employee well-being but also enhance their sustainability and ROI. This approach aligns with broader environmental goals and health standards, marking a forward-thinking step for businesses in North America. By focusing on sustainable investments in indoor air quality, businesses are not merely complying with today's standards but are also preparing for a more sustainable and profitable future.

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