Return on sustainability: Workforce housing for people, planet and profit.

SITUATION

Well-organized workforce housing can be a valuable partner for companies pursuing their sustainable development goals, as well as a component of long-term profitability. Richard Rothaus, Ph.D., examines the relationship and opportunity of sustainability, productivity and profitability.

SOLUTION

Reusable modular structures offer a green building solution for housing, and have built-in conservation and cost-saving features. By providing and independent and largely self-sufficient infrastructure, such accommodations can significantly reduce negative impacts on smaller communities caught up in rapid industrial development. By addressing the triple bottom line (TBL) of social responsibility (people, natural capital (planet) and economic prosperity (profit), appropriate workforce housing can be an important component of both short- and long-term business success.