Handbook on the State of the Art in Applied Psychology

CHAPTER 3How Psychologists Can Contribute to Individual Well‐Being, Organizational Productivity, and Saving the Planet Through Better Buildings

Jennifer A. Veitch*

National Research Council Canada – Construction, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada

Abstract

Sustainability is to meet the needs of the present without impeding the ability of future generations to meet their needs. Among the ways in which societies seek to meet sustainability goals is the improvement of building energy‐efficiency. Building energy codes mandate stringent energy‐efficiency measures for new buildings, but progress is slower for existing buildings, which make up most of the building stock. This chapter explores three ways in which psychologists can contribute. First, by working together with engineers and architects we can add to the evidence that with judicious choices of technology, building design, and operation, better buildings that save energy can improve organizational productivity and individual well‐being through reduced absenteeism, improved job satisfaction, and other outcomes. Some argue that these benefits should improve the return‐on‐investment enough to speed renovation choices. Psychologists know that decisions are not simple financial calculations. Thus, second, we can develop and test advanced decision‐making models to explain how organizations choose sustainable technologies—and as importantly, what barriers prevent these choices. Third, we can use our communication and behavior change skills ...