Sustainability in coworking

July 1, 2025

Coworking spaces have evolved into dynamic centers for creativity and innovation, and environmental responsibility is playing an increasingly important role. Working in a shared office not only offers flexibility, but also enables efficient use of shared resources. This is where sustainability aspects begin to stand out: By sharing office space, facilities and infrastructure, we can significantly reduce our environmental footprint. Another approach lies in the implementation of environmentally friendly technologies and resource-saving renovations that integrate a sense of responsibility into everyday working life. Coworking models not only create inspiring communities, but also promote the implementation of sustainable office practices that benefit both nature and users.

What is coworking?

Coworking is much more than just shared office space - it is a dynamic concept that is revolutionizing the way we work. In these spaces, start-ups, creative minds and established companies come together to benefit from synergy and collaboration. At Unicorn Workspaces, the focus is not just on the flexible workplace, but on a holistic experience that is complemented by additional services such as a barista coffee flat rate and modern meeting rooms. Such spaces promote networking and exchange in an inspiring environment. Sustainability is also playing an increasingly important role in coworking, from the use of resource-conserving materials to the implementation of green energy. As a result, coworking spaces are becoming centers for innovation and sustainable work that go far beyond the conventional office landscape

Advantages of coworking

Coworking spaces offer more than just a flexible workplace. They create an inspiring environment that promotes productivity, creativity and networking. Here are some of the key benefits:

Flexibility and cost efficiency through shared resources.
Networking with like-minded people to encourage collaboration and innovation.
Use of sustainable practices to reduce environmental footprint.
Diversity and inclusion as the basis for an inspiring work environment.

In a world that places increasing emphasis on environmental responsibility and flexible working models, coworking is a forward-thinking solution.

Sustainability and coworking

Sustainability is playing an increasingly important role in coworking spaces, as it offers not only environmental, but also social and economic benefits. At Unicorn, we focus on resource-efficient design, green energy and innovative renovation techniques to minimize our environmental footprint. Waste reduction through effective waste management and recycling programs strengthens the community’s environmental awareness, while energy-efficient technologies reduce resource consumption. In addition, an inclusive community concept strengthens social sustainability and supports efficient use of space through the sharing economy. This combination of environmentally conscious measures and flexible working structures makes coworking spaces forward-looking and sustainable working models.

Efficient use of space: less space, more sustainability

A key advantage of coworking spaces is the optimal use of space. Instead of many companies or freelancers operating separate offices with unused capacity, a coworking space enables the shared use of an area. This leads to better space utilization and reduces the need for new buildings or additional office space, which in turn saves resources and energy. In addition, flexible working models such as hot desking or shared offices can help to organize workspaces in line with demand and avoid vacancies.

Saving energy in the workspace: smart solutions for lower consumption

Coworking spaces can significantly improve their energy efficiency through targeted measures. The use of renewable energies such as solar power or green electricity tariffs helps to minimize CO₂ emissions. Modern building insulation, intelligent heating and cooling systems and LED lighting with motion sensors help to reduce energy consumption. Power consumption can also be reduced through conscious behavior on the part of members, e.g. by switching off unused devices or using laptops instead of power-intensive desktop PCs. Some coworking providers also rely on smart building technologies to further optimize energy consumption through automated control.

Another sustainable aspect of coworking spaces is the shared use of resources. This starts with office equipment such as printers, monitors or conference rooms, which do not have to be purchased by each individual but are shared by everyone. This not only reduces the amount of hardware required, but also cuts material and energy consumption.

In addition, sustainable coworking spaces are increasingly relying on environmentally friendly office materials such as recycled paper, refillable pens and biodegradable packaging for snacks and drinks. The concept of the “circular economy” is also being applied here: Furniture and equipment often come from sustainable production to conserve resources and avoid waste.

Working in an environmentally friendly way: Sustainable practices in everyday coworking

In coworking spaces, sustainability often unfolds through small but effective practices. Common areas for waste separation or the use of reusable materials can significantly reduce the ecological footprint. Encouraging the switch to electronic documents and cloud-based collaboration reduces paper consumption and also promotes efficiency in everyday working life. For those who can’t do without coffee in the morning, many coworking spaces offer a barista coffee flat rate, often using fair trade coffee, which combines sustainability and enjoyment. The use of environmentally friendly means of transportation is supported by central locations that offer good connections to public transportation. Various efforts to implement environmentally friendly infrastructure through the use of green energy and energy-saving appliances also help to reduce energy consumption. Such sustainable approaches not only lead to a positive ecological balance, but also create an attractive and conscious working environment that is appreciated by users.

Tips for sustainable working in a coworking space

Save electricity: Switch off unused light sources and use energy-saving devices.
Use green energy: Choose coworking spaces that rely on renewable energy
Minimize paper consumption: Work digitally where possible and use recycled paper when printing is unavoidable.
Use printers consciously: Reduce unnecessary printing and favor double-sided printing.
Promote waste separation & recycling: Pay attention to correct waste separation and sensitize your environment to sustainable disposal.
Launch sustainable initiatives: Organize internal events or lounges to raise awareness of environmental friendliness.

Conclusion

Coworking spaces offer an ideal platform for promoting sustainable ways of working and using resources efficiently. Through shared spaces, the conscious use of energy, waste reduction and sustainable mobility, they can make a significant contribution to environmental protection. Each individual can reduce their ecological footprint through small changes - such as paperless working, waste separation or energy-saving behavior. When sustainability becomes a lived practice in coworking spaces, not only the environment and society benefit, but also the community and the attractiveness of the working environment.

FAQ on sustainability in coworking

How can I be sustainable in the office?

Sustainability in a coworking space means integrating environmentally friendly practices and social responsibility into everyday working life. This involves designing workspaces that conserve resources and support the community. This includes measures such as the use of sustainable materials in office design, the use of energy-efficient equipment and the promotion of a recycling culture. But social sustainability is also important: an inclusive working environment that values and supports the diversity of its users. Unicorn Workspaces attaches great importance to such sustainable practices, for example by using resource-saving renovations and green energy sources.

How can coworking spaces contribute to environmental protection?

Sustainability in coworking spaces has the potential to make a significant contribution to environmental protection. The shared use of resources such as printers, office materials and electronics reduces the need for individual purchases and therefore the overall consumption of resources. In addition, efficient energy use and smart lighting systems can reduce energy consumption and the associated emissions.

Why is sustainability in coworking an advantage for companies?

Sustainability in coworking offers companies numerous advantages. On the one hand, companies can reduce their ecological footprint, which is becoming increasingly important in today’s environmentally conscious society. On the other hand, they benefit from a positive brand perception when they work sustainably. In addition, working conditions often improve in sustainable offices, leading to higher employee satisfaction and productivity. For companies in our Unicorn Workspaces that focus on environmentally friendly design and the use of renewable energy, this can also be a clear competitive advantage.

What sustainable initiatives are implemented at Unicorn Workspaces?

Unicorn Workspaces is actively committed to sustainability by carrying out resource-saving renovations with environmentally friendly materials. In addition, green energy is used to reduce the ecological footprint of the sites. There is also a focus on promoting social responsibility: an inclusive working environment and employee wellbeing programs are key components of the corporate culture. Through such inclusive and environmentally conscious practices, Unicorn not only helps to make everyday life greener, but also supports the well-being of the community within the workspaces.