Sustainability

Question 1

How much of the world’s carbon emissions does the construction industry create?

Answer 1

According to the World Green Building Council, the construction industry generates an estimated 39% of the world’s carbon emissions.

Question 2

Give an example of sustainable technology within your projects.

Answer 2

Typical examples of general sustainable technologies include: photovoltaics, ground source heat pumps, air source heat pumps, green roofs, or even more simple initiatives such as bird/bat boxes on facades. However, these aren’t typically part of an office fitout, as our scope predominantly consists of CAT A alterations and CAT B fitout. With this in mind, a key sustainable initiative that I advise my clients to utlilise is the integration of MEP within the BMS system, such as lighting and HVAC. For lighting, this could be as simple as efficient bulbs (LEDs) with PIR sensors, allowing energy to be saved in areas of the building which are not being used. Taking this a step further, BMS integration with HVAC systems allows the monitoring of trends and client-specific-peaks and troughs with their energy usage, allowing my client to save energy during low-use periods.

On my Aviva project, this is an area that I advised my client as part of the intelligent building system package, and the use of heating/cooling within meeting rooms. When a meeting room is booked remotely using the app, the user has the option to select their preferred temperate. 30 minutes before the booking time, the system will then heat/cool the room as required for the user. When the room is not in use, it will revert to an energy efficient setting. Not only does this have sustainability and cost benefits for my clients, but adds to their aspirational dimensions of their workplace, as this is an impressive feature when hosting meetings or just for use internally.

Question 3

What are the UK 2030 and 2050 targets for net zero carbon?

Question 4

Define net zero carbon.

Question 5

What is a whole lifecycle carbon assessment?

Question 6

Discuss designing for disassembly and circularity?

Question 7

What is ESG?

Question 8

What are the benefits of sustainability for your clients?

Answer 8

• Offices are more desirable and potentially profitable
• Internal sustainability targets
• Brand image

Question 9

What does the RICS Whole Lifecycle Building Assessment cover?

Question 10

What are the Building Regulations Part Z?

Answer 10

WHt