How JEG Tower promotes occupant safety in the workplace

As part of JEG Development Corporation’s commitment to a holistic promotion of health and well-being, the company continues to invest in state-of-the-art technology that ensures the safety and protection of its tenants especially in the new normal.

Designed and constructed with the Cebuanos in mind, JEG Tower @ One Acacia offers more than its green features and amenities that contribute lesser negative impacts to the environment. Named as 2020’s Best Commercial Green Development, the 22-storey LEED Pre-certified Silver establishment utilizes one of the top-grade technologies to encourage proper and effective handwashing: the Dyson Airblade. 

READ MORE: Pandemic-Proof Workplace: How LEED buildings stand out 

The Dyson Airblade is a sensor-operated, touch-free hand dryer that is equipped with the HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filtration system that purifies the air that is used to dry hands. 

According to the World Green Building Council, green buildings could help in the fight against COVID-19 or any public health emergencies through two key elements: prevention and control.

The Department of Health (DOH) has emphasized that along with wearing face masks and physical distancing, proper hand hygiene remains one of the best defenses against the coronavirus. It also reduces the spread of bacteria and other harmful threats to the environment. This is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as studies found that the virus can ‘stay alive’ and be transmitted through surfaces.

Touch-free Technology

Dyson Airblade utilizes an infrared LED sensor technology that reduces skin to skin contact after washing hands. This touch-free system encourages the most hygienic user experience that is programmed to automatically detect and trigger HEPA purified air for drying.

Studies also show that damp hands can carry and transfer up to 1,000 times more bacteria than dry hands. With a 10-14 second dry time, Dyson Airblade hand dryers can reduce the transmission of bacteria up to 40%.

The Restroom Environment

Research has found that viruses can also thrive in indoor environments with poor air circulation and lower indoor air quality. Dyson Airblade hand dryers are built with HEPA filters that are proven to capture 99.97% of particles, including bacteria and viruses in the air. This helps in minimizing the duration of exposure to any potential infectious materials in any enclosed space.

Lower environmental impact

The Dyson Airblade hand dryers are also aligned with JDC’s push for green real estate and sustainability. This technology cuts up carbon dioxide emissions by up to 85% compared to other hand dryers. More than 90% of the hand dryer’s emissions come from in-use, meaning a faster drying cycle and less energy used. Energy-efficient hand dryers such as the Dyson Airblade also encourages up to 85% less usage of paper towels which means fewer trees are cut down and used in production.

Want to learn more about this technology? Reach out to Michael Glindro at (+63) 917-584-0443. You may also contact us at (+63) 2-8403-55-19 or info@kmcmaggroup.com.

Ways to reduce waste in the workplace 

Waste reduction is one of the most important facets of conserving resources and adapting green initiatives in the workplace. Over the years, companies have become more aware of the impacts of businesses on the environment and have pledged their support and cooperation in helping combat the worsening condition of climate change. From choosing to locate in green buildings to incorporating a biophilic workplace design, committing to help in saving the environment can be simple yet valuable. 

Here are some ways you can reduce office waste: 

Smart use of paper  

For some, paper is still a necessity in day to day business. With the continuous advancement of technology, businesses can implement strategies that promote a smarter usage of paper and printing: 

  • Print in draft mode to use less ink
  • Use both sides of paper 
  • Shred scratch papers and use it as fillers in packages 
  • Buy refilled cartridges of toner and ink to reduce metal and plastic waste in landfills 
  • Provide paper recycling bins near workstations 
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Other companies, and even local government units in the Philippines, are even turning into paperless institutions. This eco-friendly digitalization is an initiative to significantly reduce paper consumption for transactions and a commitment to promote the conservation of natural resources to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. 

Provide reusable utensils and water bottles 

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Providing your employees with reusable water bottles and utensils does not only look good for your branding, but it will also be a great initiative to promote waste reduction in the workplace. Tons of plastic can be cut off from disposable spoons, forks, and plastic water bottles. 

Offer better transportation options 

Your employees’ commute to the office is also a great area for you to promote waste reduction. Encourage employees to walk or bike to work by offering shower rooms and changing areas. For employees who live farther, organize a carpool program and get them connected. 

Recycle e-waste 

Old and irreparable mobile phones, computers, printers, and other equipment can often be recycled. Look for recycling programs and companies who buy these scrap materials in your area that accept these kinds of materials. Your company can also hold a collection drive for the employees’ personal damaged devices they would want to donate. 

Locate in a green building 

Offices that are based in a green building impact the environment more positively than those who are in regular office buildings. Sustainable structures, LEED buildings to be more specific, follow and observe certain standards that are beneficial to the environment. These green structures use less water, energy and emit fewer greenhouse gases without compromising the usual operational needs of businesses. 

The company’s role in adapting green practices within the office and instilling the green mindset to their employees is very crucial. These small efforts and policies may be simple, but they can make a large difference if done collectively. 

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JEG Development Corporation, the name behind JEG Tower @ One Acacia, is one of the few frontrunners of the green revolution in Cebu. Being a family-run business for generations, the company has committed to promoting eco-friendlier options and solutions in their line of businesses. JEG Tower @ One Acacia is Cebu City’s newest premium green buildings. Expected to open in 2020, it looks forward to revolutionizing work and life balance by providing a working environment that uplifts its tenants’ health and wellness and promoting sustainable real estate in the province. 

Interested in leasing a commercial space in a premium green building? Contact Michael Glindro at (+63) 917-584-0443. For more information, send us an email at info@kmcmaggroup.com or reach out to us through (+632) 8403-5519. 

Building A ‘Biophilic’ Office: What Is Biophilia And How Can It Benefit Your Business

As more companies and businesses recognize the importance of providing a workspace that would improve the health and wellness of their employees, ‘Biophilia’, or the term describing a love of life and living things, has been one of the emerging trends in interior design for offices in the world. The Biophilic office design includes features that aim to bring the outdoors in, especially in the workplace. 

In the previous year, the shift towards promoting a greener space in the office has been encouraged as studies find that incorporating biophilic design has a positive effect on the employees’ productivity, mood, and health. In fact, Human Space has reported that workplaces who have introduced elements of nature have witnessed a decrease in the levels of mental fatigue among staff members and an increase in levels of workplace wellbeing. 

Here are some ways that your business can incorporate biophilic design in your office: 

Introduce real and artificial plants  

Studies find that providing visual elements of nature within your workspace can help reduce stress and fatigue. In fact, mere exposure to green has a positive impact on creative performance, and at the same time, imparting a welcoming and relaxing environment. 

Adding real and artificial plants within your office premises does not only impact your office ambiance and aesthetics, but it can also effectively reduce unpleasant symptoms, such as headaches, coughing, and a general feeling of being unwell, as plants reduce dust, mold, and CO2 levels. 

Make the most of natural daylight 

While some may imagine traditional office spaces with bright artificial lighting, many companies prefer to locate in spaces with open windows providing natural lighting and giving views from the outside. 

A recent study has confirmed that natural light in your office improves productivity and the overall health of employees. “Light is the most important synchronizing agent for the brain and body,” said Ivy Cheung, one of the authors of a study finding the connection of daylight exposure to employee health and productivity. “Proper synchronization of your internal biological rhythms with the earth’s daily rotation has been shown to be essential for health.”  

To make the most of your office’s natural light, make sure windows aren’t fully covered by blinds, and that workers’ desks are faced towards windows, rather than away from them. 

Stick to neutral and natural color schemes 

One of the key components of biophilic design is utilizing natural colors and incorporating a neutral color palette to the space itself. Interior designers say that biophilic design uses earth colors and tones such as greens, browns, golds, and tans, as well as blues and whites to mimic the sky and the sea. 

Add wood, stone, and granite details 

Studies find that tactile senses can play a huge role in adding biophilic elements in the office. Adding wood, stone, granite, and marble help in bringing the outside inside the enclosed office space. These materials can be incorporated as finishes on the likes of pillars, shelves, cupboards, and desks.  

Utilize available outdoor areas 

Office locations that offer outdoor spaces such as rooftops, balconies, and gardens can be more beneficial for businesses that are looking to adapting a biophilic workplace design. Add some comfortable seating and tables so staff can work outdoors when the weather permits as this access to natural light and fresh air have numerous benefits to your employees including increased productivity, creativity and wellbeing. 

Looking for an office space in Cebu City? Discuss your options with Lorenzo Rodriguez through (+63) 917-852-6884. For more information, send us an email at info@kmcmaggroup.com or reach out to us through (+632) 8403-5519.

Source: KMC Website

JEG Tower @ One Acacia Holds Topping Off Ceremony

The construction of JEG Tower @ One Acacia, Cebu City’s newest premium green building, is right on schedule. Marking the completion of the structural construction phase of the building, the tower held its topping off ceremony last November 19, 2019, on the 22nd floor of the building. 

JEG Development Corporation (JDC) executives, representatives from Casas Architects, and family members gathered to lay the final brick on the podium and mark an important milestone. The 22-storey tower will don as a landmark to celebrate their family’s legacy and promote sustainability through green real estate in Cebu. Executives from KMC, its sole leasing agency, were also present in the event. 

“Topping off is important for any development since it signifies a major accomplishment in the overall completion of the project,” Marko Sarmiento, JDC’s Chief Operating Officer, said. “The superstructure is the most vital component in any building and to reach this point only means that we’re close to the finish line.” 

JEG Tower @ One Acacia is more than just an additional gem to the Cebu City skyline. Designed by Casas Architects, it follows a sophisticated design without compromising its sustainable features. It will utilize and operationalize using less water, energy, and emit fewer greenhouse gases.  

JDC’s first high rise commercial venture is one of Cebu’s pioneers in raising the bar in the quality of premium commercial spaces in the region which will not only benefit its tenants’ operational costs but also uplift the working conditions of their employees. It utilizes top of the line technology such as Daikin VRV air conditioning systems and Mitsubishi DOAS elevators that organize their lifts to be the most time saving for office users.  

Through JEG Tower, JDC promotes the walkability of the business district by providing communal showers in the parking area. This unique amenity will not only encourage tenants to get a workout in but also contribute lesser carbon emissions to the environment. 

“What we are also excited about is the rooftop garden, which we are sure our future tenants will appreciate as well,” Ayla Gomez, JDC’s Brand Manager shares. “It is a great area for events and is a perfect green space that we need for a quick afternoon respite overlooking the sea and the mountains to fuel and inspire the rest of the workday,” she added.

These energy-saving measures also mean a good investment for the tenants, in terms of saving money on reduced utility bills. It also promotes improved productivity of their workforce, which study after study has been shown to be increased in green buildings. JEG Tower is also one of the few LEED-certified buildings in the metropolis and is currently pre-certified LEED Silver. 

JEG Tower @ One Acacia Holds Topping Off Ceremony

“As the building is getting closer to turn over, locals can look forward to now having the option to choose better work environments for their companies and most especially for the people that work for them,” Gomez said. “The city will have a grade A building that fosters community and the work-life balance that every Cebuano deserves.” 

Leading to its launch and turnover in 2020, JDC is looking to achieve Gold certification.  

“Now that the superstructure is completed, all hands are on deck in finishing the building,” Sarmiento said. “The installation of our elevators, as well as the completion of our facade, are two of the more crucial activities that we have to pay close attention to next. We also intend to energize the building by January of 2020.” 

Once completed, JEG Tower @ One Acacia will also serve as JDC’s headquarters and home base.  

“JEG Development Company has placed a lot of resources to build the best workspace in the city, Stefan Garcia, JDC’s estate and business development manager said. “JEG Tower is one of a new crop of office developments in Cebu that are raising the standards of buildings in our city.” 

Source: KMC Website