Sustainability

Question 1

What are the key principles of sustainability?

Answer 1

Social - Building healthy communities with sufficient numbers and range of buildings.
Economical - Build strong, responsive, competitive economies ensuring sufficient land and right types.
Environmental - Contributing towards the protection and enhancement of our natural, built and historic environment.

Question 2

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

Answer 2

1. Risks of water pollution.
2. Air and noise pollution.
3. High energy consumption and carbon emissions.
4. Risk of land contamination.
5. Damage to wild habitats.
6. High wastage production into landfill.
7. Release of dangerous gases and chemicals.

Question 3

What are the key pieces of legislation that affect sustainability in construction?

Answer 3

1. Agricultural Land Act
2. Building Act
3. Clean Air Act
4. Climate Change Act

Question 4

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

Answer 4

1. BREEAM
2. SKA ratings
3. LEED