Edinburgh Napier University

  This paper aims to examine FM functions that relate to sustainable building (SB) throughout the phases of the building life-cycle. Many building designers progressively work towards achieving a sustainable environment in order to attain high level of satisfaction of occupants' comfort and safety and to meet the sustainable development (SD) agenda requirements. Facilities management (FM) is described as a practice that ensures effective operational management of buildings and can therefore be said to play an important role in creating this sustainable environment. However, it is imperative to consider if this integrative role helps in achieving SB. There is limited research in FM view in relation to SB. The research methodology adopted is the review of existing literature sources on SBs and the documents produced by BREEAM, LEED and ISO. The research methodology also involves a review of the competencies of FM as stated in FM professional standards. The paper evaluates the role of FM in relation to identified SB constituents at the design, construction and operations phases of the building life-cycle. The findings of the research reveal FM functions in relation to the SB constituents. These FM functions are found to be operative mostly at the design and operations phase. This paper helps FM professionals to identify their role in SBs and a need for them to function at the construction phase.