Apply simple office daylighting principles, i.e., using as much natural light as possible for indoor lighting, to contribute to energy savings, sustainability, and employee well-being. 

What is office daylighting?

Daylighting is the practice of placing windows, skylights, other openings, and reflective surfaces so that direct or indirect sunlight can provide effective internal lighting (Source: Wikipedia).

What does daylighting include?

Daylighting can include many different aspects, but the most common practices include:

• Intentionally placing windows, skylights, or other openings in the building (if it's possible to consider during initial design and construction).
• Arranging office furniture to maximize the amount of natural light in working spaces. 
• Using light-colored finishes on interior surfaces to brighten up the space and decrease the number of lights that need to be turned on (based on the external light conditions). 
• Implementing intentional practices to consider the light daily and then adjusting windows and lighting to minimize energy use. 

Why is office daylighting a socially responsible action?

Office daylighting reduces reliance on artificial lighting, thereby decreasing energy use. Reducing electric lighting also helps lower greenhouse gas emissions, combat climate change, and conserve precious natural resources.

How can office daylighting help your business?

Natural light has been associated with increased productivity, enhanced mood, and improved employee well-being, creating happier and healthier work environments. More content and healthier employees can increase job satisfaction, retention rates, and overall business performance.

How can you get started?

For this quick overview, I assume you already have an existing office location and aren't building something new (that is a much more involved process).

The following tips will help you start considering daylighting. For more help, check out the articles, resources, and businesses listed below. 

1. Start by reviewing your existing lighting setup.
2.  Identify areas with limited natural light and prioritize them for improvement. 
3.  Consider reconfiguring office layouts to optimize natural light penetration and remove obstacles obstructing windows or skylights. 
4.  Utilize light-colored and reflective surfaces to enhance light distribution throughout the workspace. 
5.  Consider installing window treatments that allow light control without blocking natural light completely. 
6.  Create a habit of considering the ambient lighting and adjusting your artificial lighting. 

*And remember… don't just “do” an action. Make that action effective. Learn more about what it means to make your actions effective in our related blog post.

Interested in learning more?

Articles about the action:

• Embrace Daylighting for Sustainable Design: Stay Ahead of the Curve and Revolutionize Your Architectural Practices (ugreen.io)
• New Study: Air Quality And Natural Light Have The Biggest Impact On Employee Well-Being (forbes.com)
• The Benefits of Natural Light in Office Spaces: Lighting Design for Increased Employee Satisfaction (hmcarchitects.com)
• 9 Benefits of Natural Light in Office Spaces (www.avantisystemsusa.com)

Published studies:

• The use and environmental impact of daylighting (Journal of Cleaner Production, December 2014)

More detailed ideas for getting started:

• Daylighting Tips and Strategies for Existing Buildings (www.buildings.com)

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