Sustainability

Question 1

What is sustainability?

Answer 1

To meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Question 2

What procedures does your firm implement to promote sustainability?

Answer 2

• Recycling papers and cardboards
• Digital documentation instead of printing
• Motion sensors of lighting
• LED lamps

Question 3

What are the most common environmental issues experienced on construction sites?

Answer 3

Risk of water pollution, air and noise polution, high enery consumption and carbon emissions, land contamination, high wastage, release of dangerous gas and chemicals

Question 4

What are the main pillars of sustainability?

Answer 4

Social, economical, environmental

Question 5

What different code of practice are you aware of for measuring sustainability?

Answer 5

DGNB, LEED, BREEAM

Question 6

What is DGNB? How does it work?

Answer 6

Deutsche Gesellschaft für Nachhaltiges Bauen - based on ecological, economical and socio-quality criterias, embodies life cycle assessment, holistic approach and performance orientation
- Client hires DGNB-trained auditor
- Auditor supports planning and construction until completion and handing over
- Documents submitted to DGNB for inspection
- DGNB conducts final inspection and award certificate (Platinum, Gold, Silver, Bronze)

Question 7

What is BREEAM? How does it work?

Answer 7

Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method - Commonly in UK.
- A licensed assessor based on energy, land & ecology, water, health and wellbeing, pollution, materials and waste management as environmental performance

Question 8

How is BREAAM scoring?

Answer 8

Unclassified (<30%), Pass (>30%), Good (>45%), Very Good (>55%), Excellent (>70%) and Outstanding (>85%)

Question 9

What is LEED? How does it work?

Answer 9

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design - USA equivalent of BREEAM, reviews carbon emissions and lifecycle assessment during construction and operation.
- LEED certified, Silver, Gold, Platinum

Question 10

What are the key building regulations that relate to sustainability?

Answer 10

EU’s energy performance of buildings directive (EPBD)
- All new buildings must be NZEB by 31.12.2020
- All new public buildings must be NZEB by 31.12.2018
- All buildings must be issued with Energy Performance Certificate.

Question 11

Name some sustainable building methods?

Answer 11

• Use of recycable materials
• Solar Panels
• Rainwater harvesting
• Green roofing
• Automated building systems (motion sensors)
• Wind Turbines