Sustainability Flashcards
What are the principles of sustainability within the development process?
- The three pillars of sustainability include economic, environmental and social sustainability,
How is sustainability influenced through planning?
Each of which can be influenced through planning decisions and policy (NPPF)
Planning decisions and EMZ, community facilties etc. design green roofs, access and multifunctional
Policy & legislation BNG, CIL.
The relationship between property and the environment
Green Belt / Grey Belt (low performing green belt), use of materials, embodied carbon (gas emissions associated with the entire lifecycle of building materials and products)
What is the minimum biodiversity increase required by the Environment Act 2021?
Minimum 10% increase in biodiversity
This requirement is part of the Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) initiative.
What do Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) assess?
Environmental effects of major projects
Many countries mandate EIAs for significant developments.
What is the target year for achieving Net Zero according to the Climate Change Act 2008?
2050
This includes a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by at least 100% from 1990 levels.
What is the purpose of the Paris Agreement?
To address climate change
It sets the framework for international cooperation on climate action.
What does NPPF stand for, and what is its goal?
National Planning Policy Framework; promote sustainable development
It guides local planning authorities in England.
What is the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) requirement for commercial buildings as of April 2027?
EPC rating C. The requirement will increase to EPC rating B by 2030.
What is the Climate Change Levy?
Tax on energy used
It aims to encourage energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
What are Capital Allowances in relation to sustainability?
Tax relief on sustainable investments
They incentivize businesses to invest in energy-efficient technologies.
Fill in the blank: The Environment Act 2021 mandates a minimum increase in biodiversity of _______.
10%
This is part of the Biodiversity Net Gain (BNG) requirement.
The Climate Change Act 2008 aims for a net reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by .
2050
The Act mandates a reduction of at least 100% from 1990 levels.
What ways of measuring the sustainability of buildings are there?
BREEAM
LEED
WELL
NABARS
Provide an overview of BREAAM?
UK – Co2 – 9 credentials – legislation/best practice
- health and well being – natural light, energy - solar, transport – cycle storage and shower, water = low flow, waste = recycling, land use = green roofs, exisiting trees, pollution = SUDS, Inno – smart buildings
Provide an overview of LEED?
– US – USD – 5 credentials – optional standard
What are EPCs?
EPC (Environmental Performance Certificate):
- Required for almost all buildings that are constructed, sold or let.
- It includes a comparison of the predicted energy consumption of the building to a benchmark and provides a lettered asset rating (similar to the A-G ratings commonly found on domestic appliances).
- For new buildings, the contractor is under a legal obligation to provide an EPC to the client at handover.
What is an Environmental Impact Assessment?
- Assesses the potential impact that a proposed development will have on the environment.
- Advises on ways to improve / mitigate impact.
- Coupled with an Environmental Statement.
What is a Flood Risk Assessment and what must it include?
- It determines whether a development is located in the Environment Agency flood plain map.
