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Category: Industry news

As the World’s leaders gather to address the climate emergency one Wales based steel manufacturer has taken further steps towards helping the construction industry become more sustainable.

Celsa Steel UK, based in Cardiff, has signed up to become a Partner of the award-winning Supply Chain Sustainability School to work in collaboration with the industry towards twin goals – a more sustainable and decarbonised construction sector.

Shaun McCarthy OBE, Chair of the Supply Chain Sustainability School said: “Celsa Steel UK is the latest large-scale manufacturer to join the School and commit to working with the construction industry to drive forward our goal of creating a more sustainable sector. Celsa’s commitment to creating a circular economy is admirable and we look forward to working in partnership with them both in Wales and across the UK.”

Already focused on creating a truly circular economy through the recycling of scrap metal to create their steel products, Celsa Steel UK is set to push forward ambitious new sustainability plans and targets.

Eoin Bailey, UK Innovation Manager for Celsa Steel said: “At a COP26 event last week the new Chief Sustainability Officer, Juan Carlos Orozco announced the vision for CELSA Group is ‘to be leaders of the CIRCULAR SUPPLY CHAIN to build a NET POSITIVE future’. For CELSA the pathway towards Net Zero and true Circularity are one in the same. In the UK we are certainly making strides from linear to circular. However, we know that true circularity and sustainable prosperity cannot be achieved in isolation, collaboration is the key. Therefore, we are delighted to join the school with hope to developing the collaborative approach that will help us all to build a positive future.”

With more than 50,000 registered learners, the School provides free practical learning and support in the form of sustainability training, events and networking, e-learning modules, tailored assessment, and a library of over 2,900 online resources.

The School’s Partner organisations are committed to building sustainability skills and knowledge across the industry. This will help safeguard the future of the UK’s built environment and ensure that it is fairer, greener, and more robust.

To become a Partner of the School visit or to register as a FREE School member, visit.

The UK’s largest distributor of fuel and lubricants has shown its commitment to helping the construction industry become more sustainable by becoming a Partner to the Supply Chain Sustainability School.

Certas Energy, based in Warrington, joins 142 other companies from across the built environment supply chain who are working together through the School to create a more sustainable industry.

“COP 26 has shown, if we didn’t already know, just how vital it is that we address the sustainability challenge in the construction industry”, said Shaun McCarthy OBE, Director and Chair of the Supply Chain Sustainability School. “The industry has done brilliant work to deliver more sustainable projects but there’s still lots to do. We are delighted to welcome Certas Energy to the School, and we look forward to working with them to help decarbonise the industry and push sustainability to the forefront of delivery.”

Angus Blundell, Director of Corporate Affairs at Certas Energy adds: “We are proud to fuel the future success of our customers by helping them to meet their environmental goals during this important energy transition. We achieve this in diverse ways, from exploring cleaner alternative fuels to providing expert advice on improving fuel efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, and navigating legislative changes.”

Angus continues: “We are right there on the journey with our customers, with our own targets of net zero emissions by 2050 and a 20% reduction in carbon emissions by 2025. Joining the School expands on and confirms our commitment to these goals, and we look forward to collaborating with other like-minded partners in this next step on our journey. We can’t wait to get started.”

With more than 50,000 registered users, the School provides free practical learning and support in the form of sustainability training, events and networking, e-learning modules, tailored assessment, and a library of over 2,900 online resources.

The School’s Partner organisations are committed to building sustainability skills and knowledge across the industry. This will help safeguard the future of the UK’s built environment and ensure that it is fairer, greener, and more robust.

To become a Partner of the School visit or to register as a FREE School member, visit.

Top stories

 

Five-year £1bn investment to put people at the heart of North Lanarkshire communities

Towns and communities in North Lanarkshire will benefit from £1.243 billion investment over the next five years to transform them into vibrant, thriving, sustainable places, the local authority has revealed.

Read more >>

Plans submitted for £33.8m leisure-led development in Perthshire

A planning application for a new £33.8 million leisure-led development at West Kinfauns has been submitted to Perth and Kinross Council.

Read more >>

BE@COP26

During COP26 Construction Scotland Innovation Centre will be an exciting hub of inspiration, learning and action for the built environment to accelerate to net zero. Over two weeks the Innovation Factory near Glasgow will be home to a host of innovative exhibits plus a range of events and experiences

Read more >>

 

November’s Featured Topic: Climate Change & Carbon

Climate change is the biggest issue of our times and the built environment is one of the major contributors to carbon emissions. Reduction in carbon emissions have to occur if we are to avoid the worst effects of climate change.

We have a wealth of resources to help you gain a better understanding of Climate Change and Carbon – take a look:

Introduction to Climate Change and Carbon Footprinting Learning Pathway

This self-enrol learning pathway will provide you with not only the understanding of climate change, carbon emissions and how to identify were they occur, but also the skills to make reduction plans to tackle them and report on your progress to your stakeholders – clients, regulators and colleagues.

Enrol here >>

Decarbonising Construction: Building A New Net Zero Industry

This report from the National Engineering Policy Centre and the Royal Academy of Engineering focuses on four interconnected missions that cut across the whole of the construction sector that require urgent attention to achieve net zero.

Find out more >>

Carbon Reduction, Offsetting And Net Zero

In this E-Learning module we explore carbon reduction strategies including carbon offsets and Net Zero. This is the final part in a series of 4 modules on measuring and reducing your carbon impact.

Find out more >>

 

Recommended for Scotland

Low Carbon Regeneration – Business Bytes

5 November 930h-1100h

A 90-minute Business Bytes session to discuss low carbon solutions used in major urban regeneration projects – particularly in Glasgow. We are joined by Clyde Gateway to give an update on this major regeneration programme, and Scottish Water who will present their District Heating Networks providing heat from wastewater.

This course will be delivered virtually online. See the ‘what is the course about?’ section in course details for more information. REGISTER NOW >>

 

COP26 Training Pack

To enable our industry to use the inspiration from COP26 and take direct action to increase understanding, skills and performance on carbon reduction and related issues, we are pleased to provide our Members with a COP26 Training Pack, giving you direct links to free resources and training sessions designed to help your organisation and supply chain gain a better understanding of climate change and carbon. NB – please refer to our School Events listing for upcoming training activity on carbon and climate change.

TAKE A LOOK >>

New DfMA Overlay video content released 

To bring the concepts and case studies in the new DfMA Overlay to the RIBA Plan of Work to life, we brought together leading minds from the world of DfMA in a series of 10 short films. These accessible, easily digestible videos will be published weekly on our social media and YouTube channels, and cover topics from Procurement to Digital. The first two shorts are now available online – see resource links below – so check them out and spread the word!

Upcoming training sessions…

  • The New RIBA Plan of Work DfMA Overlay – Lunch ‘n’ Learn, Thursday, 11 November, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM. Register now
  • Offsite for Quantity Surveyors and Cost Consultants Workshop, Thurs 25 November, 9:00 – 12:00. Register now
  • Offsite and MMC Procurement – Lunch ‘n’ Learn, Tuesday, 30 November, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM. Register now

Digitisation is crucial to the success of Offsite construction and MMC. Check out these sessions to skill up, and make sure you check ‘Digital’ as an interest topic in your personal dashboard settings if you’d like to learn more.

  • How to be a Digital Leader, Friday, 12 November, 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM. Register now
  • Demystifying BIM – Lunch ‘n’ Learn, Wednesday, 24 November, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Register now

Resources recommended for you this month…

NEW: DfMA – Why now? Find out more

NEW: The MMC Categories. Find out more

If you don’t measure, you can’t manage

Complete our free self assessment to get your bespoke action plan today. The list of resources will advise you where you should focus your learning with direct links to top-quality materials.

You can also benchmark your company’s offsite maturity here.

Top stories

Households offered £5,000 grants to swap boilers for heat pumps

Grants of £5,000 will be available to households to replace their gas boiler with a low carbon heat pump as part of efforts to cut emissions from homes.

Find out more >>

UK Government unveils its long-awaited plans for transitioning heat and buildings to net-zero

The Heat and Buildings Strategy outlines the Government’s approach for decarbonising the sector, featuring headline commitments to bring the upfront and operational cost of heat pumps for homes to price parity with gas boilers by 2030. This will lay the foundations for all new domestic home heating systems installed from 2035 to be fossil-fuel-free.

Read more >>

NHBC Foundation launches key advice on Electric Vehicles

The NHBC Foundation has launched a new report advising housebuilders on what they should consider on all new schemes to accommodate electric vehicles (EV’s) as the UK aims for net zero greenhouse gas emissions. 

Take a look >>

 

November’s Featured Topic: Climate Change & Carbon

Climate change is the biggest issue of our times and the built environment, including the housebuilding sector, is one of the major contributors to carbon emissions. Reduction in carbon emissions have to occur if we are to avoid the worst effects of climate change.

We have a wealth of resources to help you gain a better understanding of Climate Change and Carbon – take a look:

Introduction to Climate Change and Carbon Footprinting Learning Pathway

This self-enrol learning pathway will provide you with not only the understanding of climate change, carbon emissions and how to identify were they occur, but also the skills to make reduction plans to tackle them and report on your progress to your stakeholders – clients, regulators and colleagues.

Enrol here >>

Decarbonising Construction: Building A New Net Zero Industry

This report from the National Engineering Policy Centre and the Royal Academy of Engineering focuses on four interconnected missions that cut across the whole of the construction sector that require urgent attention to achieve net zero.

Find out more >>

Climate Policy Tracker For Business

This tracker from the We Mean Business coalition provides businesses with up-to-date information on climate regulation; enabling you to build a comprehensive picture of the policies that are directly impacting your operations and value chains.

Get started >>

 

Get ready for COP26 with our Training Pack

To prepare our industry to take action in the year of COP26, we are pleased to provide our Members with a COP26 Training Pack, giving you direct links to free resources and training sessions designed to help your organisation and supply chain gain a better understanding of climate change and carbon.

TAKE A LOOK >>

Top stories

Launch of the Welsh Procurement Policy Note WPPN 09/21: Sourcing Sustainable materials for construction projects in Wales

WPPN 09/21 provides advice to public sector bodies in Wales on how to manage market pressures affecting the availability and affordability of building materials.

Find out more >>

Wales & West Utilities Supports Decarbonisation Cluster in North Wales

School Partner Wales & West Utilities is supporting the HyNet low carbon cluster project in its bid to unlock a low carbon economy in North West England and North Wales and is urging the UK Government to award it ‘Track 1’ status later this month.

Learn more >>

Why Addressing The Need For Green Skills in Wales is Imperative

Wyn Prichard, Chair of the Supply Chain Sustainability School in Wales discusses the Skills Council with Business Wales . Wyn explains how we must make sure that we keep the improvement in this area over the next few years and not let sustainability slip down the order of priorities.

Read more >>

November’s Featured Topic: Climate Change & Carbon

Climate change is the biggest issue of our times and the built environment is one of the major contributors to carbon emission. Reduction in carbon emissions have to occur if we are to avoid the worst effects of climate change.

We have a wealth of resources to help you gain a better understanding of Climate Change and Carbon – take a look:

Introduction to Climate Change and Carbon Footprinting Learning Pathway

This self-enrol learning pathway will provide you with not only the understanding of climate change, carbon emissions and how to identify were they occur, but also the skills to make reduction plans to tackle them and report on your progress to your stakeholders – clients, regulators and colleagues.

Enrol here >>

Decarbonising Construction: Building A New Net Zero Industry

This report from the National Engineering Policy Centre and the Royal Academy of Engineering focuses on four interconnected missions that cut across the whole of the construction sector that require urgent attention to achieve net zero.

Find out more >>

Climate Policy Tracker For Business

This tracker from the We Mean Business coalition provides businesses with up-to-date information on climate regulation; enabling you to build a comprehensive picture of the policies that are directly impacting your operations and value chains.

Get started >>

National Social Value Conference Wales

This National Social Value Conference is back this November (16th – 17th). This year’s theme will be “Leading the Movement”, encouraging businesses and communities across Wales to lead the way in the delivery of Social Value in Wales. Hear from David Emery, Sector Manager of the Supply Chain Sustainability School in Wales at the conference.

To find out more and to register click here.

Top stories

Workplace Sensors Reveal Geographical Trends For Office Visits

The latest office occupancy data from workplace technology company Freespace has revealed obvious geographical differences for preferred days of the week to visit the office.

Find out more >>

Green Building Council Publishes Guidance for LA’s On New Commercial Buildings

New guidelines have been published by the UK Green Building Council (UKGBC) to help local authorities drive up the sustainability of new commercial buildings.

Read more >>

New IFMA Research Advisory Committee Focuses On The Future Of FM

The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) has created a new Research Advisory Committee to help reshape the built environment through a future-oriented research agenda.

Learn more >>

November’s Featured Topic: Climate Change & Carbon

Climate change is the biggest issue of our times and the built environment is one of the major contributors to carbon emission. Reduction in carbon emissions have to occur if we are to avoid the worst effects of climate change.

We have a wealth of resources to help you gain a better understanding of Climate Change and Carbon – take a look:

Introduction to Climate Change and Carbon Footprinting Learning Pathway

This self-enrol learning pathway will provide you with not only the understanding of climate change, carbon emissions and how to identify were they occur, but also the skills to make reduction plans to tackle them and report on your progress to your stakeholders – clients, regulators and colleagues.

Enrol here >>

Decarbonising Construction: Building A New Net Zero Industry

This report from the National Engineering Policy Centre and the Royal Academy of Engineering focuses on four interconnected missions that cut across the whole of the construction sector that require urgent attention to achieve net zero.

Find out more >>

Climate Policy Tracker For Business

This tracker from the We Mean Business coalition provides businesses with up-to-date information on climate regulation; enabling you to build a comprehensive picture of the policies that are directly impacting your operations and value chains.

Get started >>

Measuring & Managing Carbon Lunch ‘n’ Learn

This Lunch ‘n’ Learn will provide you with the knowledge and tools to help you to address the issue of measuring, reporting and managing greenhouse gas emissions. This introductory session will focus on the principles of carbon reporting within your organisation and supply chain.

Collecting and reporting sustainability data is becoming increasingly common, as organisations and their clients seek to quantify, reduce and effectively communicate their impact on climate change.

This session – run by Charles Naud, product manager of Action Sustainability’s reporting system Sustainability Tool– will explore a key framework behind measuring carbon emissions and how to effectively manage performance within your organisation and supply chain.

EVENT DETAILS:

  • DATE: 8th November 2021
  • TIME: 12:00pm -13:00pm
  • LOCATION: Online
Register for FREE now >>

Top stories

Climate Change Warning from the Environment Agency

Hundreds of people could die in floods in the UK, the Environment Agency has warned in a hard-hitting report that says the country is not ready for the impact of climate change.

Find out more >>

Urgent Government Action needed on HS2’s Euston Station and Northern Route

A lack of clarity on the northern section of HS2 and its London terminus at Euston could be putting the entire £100bn scheme at risk, watchdog MPs on the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) have warned.

Read more >>

UK Sets Out  650bn Infrastructure Pipeline

Up to £650 billion of public and private sector money could be spent on UK priority infrastructure projects over the next 10 years, according to plans published by the government.

Learn more >>

November’s Featured Topic: Climate Change & Carbon

Climate change is the biggest issue of our times and the built environment is one of the major contributors to carbon emission. Reduction in carbon emissions have to occur if we are to avoid the worst effects of climate change.

We have a wealth of resources to help you gain a better understanding of Climate Change and Carbon – take a look:

Introduction to Climate Change and Carbon Footprinting Learning Pathway

This self-enrol learning pathway will provide you with not only the understanding of climate change, carbon emissions and how to identify were they occur, but also the skills to make reduction plans to tackle them and report on your progress to your stakeholders – clients, regulators and colleagues.

Enrol here >>

Decarbonising Construction: Building A New Net Zero Industry

This report from the National Engineering Policy Centre and the Royal Academy of Engineering focuses on four interconnected missions that cut across the whole of the construction sector that require urgent attention to achieve net zero.

Find out more >>

Climate Policy Tracker For Business

This tracker from the We Mean Business coalition provides businesses with up-to-date information on climate regulation; enabling you to build a comprehensive picture of the policies that are directly impacting your operations and value chains.

Get started >>

Measuring & Managing Carbon Lunch ‘n’ Learn

This Lunch ‘n’ Learn will provide you with the knowledge and tools to help you to address the issue of measuring, reporting and managing greenhouse gas emissions. This introductory session will focus on the principles of carbon reporting within your organisation and supply chain.

Collecting and reporting sustainability data is becoming increasingly common, as organisations and their clients seek to quantify, reduce and effectively communicate their impact on climate change.

This session – run by Charles Naud, product manager of Action Sustainability’s reporting system Sustainability Tool– will explore a key framework behind measuring carbon emissions and how to effectively manage performance within your organisation and supply chain.

EVENT DETAILS:

  • DATE: 8th November 2021
  • TIME: 12:00pm -13:00pm
  • LOCATION: Online
Register for FREE now >>

“Our greatest asset is our People”

How HW Martin (Traffic Management) are using the People Matter Charter to evidence their commitment to their employees and supply chain partners.

Since establishment in February 1988, H W Martin (Traffic Management) Ltd has developed into one of the largest traffic management providers in the country. Their mission is to be a safe, customer-focused traffic management partner of choice for their clients, whilst being a primary embedding mechanism for an inclusive and sustainable sector. Their experts deliver data-led, traffic management services within a temporary environment. Put simply, they guide vehicles around roadworks in the safest, most efficient way possible, delivering excellence in operation for their clients.

HW Martin (Traffic Management) pride themselves on their dependable, agile, and progressive approach that has seen them continuously fulfil their commitments to clients for the past 33-years. They are inspired to improve the experience of everyone who travels or works on both the Strategic and Local Authority Road Network.

HW Martin (Traffic Management) and the People Matter Charter

HW Martin (Traffic Management) first became aware of the People Matter Charter during one of The School’s Fairness, Inclusion and Respect webinars. James Hunt (Sustainability Manager) is a proud FIR Ambassador and the principles of the Charter resonated with his own beliefs on how an organisation should treat it’s greatest asset, it’s people.

“Signing the Charter confirmed our existing commitment to our employees and supply chain partners.”

 

Commitment focus

HW Martin (Traffic Management) have chosen to focus on Intent 1, EDI (although they prefer FIR!). They have been promoting FIR in the work they do since 2016 with their approach and priorities evolving over time.

The Covid-19 pandemic; increased awareness of mental health issues; Black Lives Matter movement and the abhorrent abuse aimed at people over social media have drawn major attention to inequalities in our society and have raised questions about the effectiveness of plans and approaches to promote equality, diversity & inclusion.

As part of their Partner status with the School they have arranged for a “Becoming a FIR Ambassador” training session to be run, and they have invited colleagues and supply chain partners to this to further raise awareness. They are also in the process of creating bespoke Learning Pathways for internal colleagues which will incorporate FIR resources and CPD accredited e-learning.

Implementing the People Matter Charter within workforce strategy

In order to promote awareness and tackle under representation in their businesses, HW Martin (Traffic Management) believes that there is more to do to build understanding of, and engage with, structures of exclusion. Having have just produced their first FIR Report, they are also developing a Positive Action Plan to raise awareness internally of the topics raised.

They are looking at advertising, recruitment strategies and their general communications to identify how they can be more accessible to minority groups amongst other activities. The report also challenges some common misunderstandings relating to FIR.

“We want to develop is an environment that promotes equitability, equality and accessibility for all – this is simply about creating a level playing field.”


Should others sign the charter?

HW Martin (Traffic Management) believe that the Charter will ensure that an organisation focusses on their people – both directly employed and within the supply chain. They believe that having an effective and inclusive workforce strategy is essential to attracting and retaining people, especially considering the skills shortages in the construction industry. Signing up to the Charter will go a long way to ensuring that the welfare of employees and supply chain partners are prioritised, promoting that culture will provide the base for a sustainable sector.

“Using the Eight Commitments you can create a strategy to focus on specific areas for improvement whilst ensuring you celebrate and formalise the great work that is already happening within the organisation.”

 

Learn more about HW Martin (Traffic Management) here.
Learn more about HW Martin (Traffic Management)’s Partnership with the School here.

DfMA Overlay to the RIBA Plan of Work

The DfMA Overlay to the RIBA Plan of Work is now published! We had a fantastic launch, with lively discussions and plenty of input from the 200+ strong audience of architects, clients, consultants, manufacturers and more. Catch up with the recording here if you missed it.

Over the coming weeks, we’ll be releasing several short videos complementing the Overlay, featuring case studies and hearing perspectives from practitioners within different job roles on their experiences with DfMA, so keep your eyes peeled.

Offsite Leadership Group

The Offsite Leadership Group met on the 8th September to catch up on progress and discuss pressing topics within the world of Offsite and MMC. Emerging themes included best practice in managing material and resource availability in the current climate, and the need for effective sharing of data and modelling techniques with manufacturers. We’ll be taking these themes forward into our future training sessions and outputs.

The minutes from the Leadership Group are published here. If you’re from a Partner organisation and are interested in joining the Leadership Group please drop us an email at [email protected].

Our next meeting will be on December 1st, 10-12 where we’ll be discussing social value and Offsite, as well as recent work on decarbonisation of precast concrete.

Upcoming training sessions…

Don’t miss our virtual conference ‘Offsite and Mass Timber Construction‘, Thurs 21 October, which we are running in tandem with the Scotland group in the School.

This session, featuring speakers from the Centre for Advanced Timber Technology, Robertson Timber Engineering and Edinburgh Napier University, will discuss on-going work to increase the use of timber in construction and stimulate dialogue with respect to barriers to uptake.  Find out more and register

Also coming up:

  • DfMA for Architects Workshop, Weds 20 October, 9:00 – 12:00. Register now
  • Offsite for Quantity Surveyors and Cost Consultants Workshop, Thurs 25 November, 9:00 – 12:00. Register now

Resources recommended for you this month…

NEW: The DfMA Overlay to the RIBA Plan of Work 2020. Find out more

NEW: Routemap for Zero Avoidable Waste in Construction. Find out more

If you don’t measure, you can’t manage

Complete our free self assessment to get your bespoke action plan today. The list of resources will advise you where you should focus your learning with direct links to top-quality materials.

You can also benchmark your company’s offsite maturity here.

As the recent IPCC report demonstrates, there has never been a more urgent need to address human impacts on climate change. This November, COP26 in Glasgow will bring together 190 countries to agree coordinated action to tackle climate change.

The built environment sector is one of the major contributors to carbon emissions, contributing approximately 40% of all emissions. To prepare our industry to take action in the year of COP26, we are pleased to provide our Members with a COP26 Training Pack, giving you direct links to free resources and training sessions designed to help your organisation and supply chain gain a better understanding of climate change and carbon.

This simple pack will guide you through relevant videos, e-learning modules, virtual training and information on the new carbon calculator. Download below or share with your colleagues and supply chain.

Download now >

Top Stories for Scotland this Month 

Scottish Government announces £25m funding package to improve ventilation 

Business premises in Scotland will be able to access a £25 million package to improve ventilation and reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission.

Read now >>

Scottish-made tidal turbine now generating power in Japan

Hailed by the Scottish government as a win for Scotland’s marine energy industry, a Scottish built tidal turbine has been installed in Japan and has clocked its first 10MWh of clean electricity generation after 10 days of operation.

Read now >>

Glasgow launches £30bn ‘Greenprint for Investment’

Glasgow City Council has set out a £30bn portfolio of investment projects designed to aid the city’s ambition of becoming net-zero by 2030.

Read now >>

Modern slavery resources recommended for you this month

With 40.3 million victims in forced labour estimated by the Global Slavery Index, and estimated 136,000 victims in the UK alone, there are now more people enslaved than there have ever been in human history. Labour exploitation is a lucrative business for organised crime and their willing participants and the built environment is no exception.

We have a wealth of resources to help you understand the principles of modern slavery and how you can use due diligence within your organisational processes to combat the risk of labour exploitation – take a look:

Modern Slavery: An Introduction This self-enrol learning pathway is designed to increase your understanding of modern slavery risks within your organisation and within your supply chain. It is the perfect place to start if you want to understand the principles of modern slavery and how you can use due diligence within your organisational processes to combat the risk of labour exploitation.

Enrol >>

Modern Slavery Due Diligence Prevention Checklist This checklist is based on best practice in the construction sector.  It outlines what organisations should have in place to combat modern slavery, as well as helping procurement specialists understand how to evaluate supply chain responses to requests for their own due diligence processes.

Get Started >>

Concrete – Tackling Modern Slavery in the Construction Sector Modern Slavery Video illustrating the forms of modern slavery and how it can manifest in the construction industry

Watch Now >>

Recommended for Scotland – get registered for our upcoming events:

Offsite and Mass Timber Construction – Business Bytes

21 October 0930h – 1130h

This session will raise the profile of on-going work to increase the use of timber in construction and stimulate dialogue with respect to barriers to uptake as well as providing a forum to gather feedback on the Timber Technology Engineering and Design competency framework in terms of unlocking the barriers to upskilling built environment professionals in timber engineering.

Speakers include:

  • Prof. Robert Hairstans – Director, Centre for Advanced Timber Technology (NMITE)
  • Mila Duncheva, Centre for Offsite Construction + Innovative Structure, Edinburgh Napier University
  • Nicola Jackson – Robertson Timber Engineering
  • Sam Hart, Construction Scotland Innovation Centre
  • Clare Vokes, Harlow Consulting

REGISTER NOW >>

Designing and Building Resilience into Infrastructure Projects

28 October 1000h-1130h 

Business Bytes A 90-minute Business Bytes session to discuss nature-based solutions in infrastructure projects, and their implications for prime contractors and supply chains.

Speakers include:

  • Elana Bader, Nature Scot
  • Peter Robinson, Scottish Canals + TBC Morgan Sindall (if possible)
  • James Murray, MGSDP – Glasgow Council

REGISTER NOW >>

Low Carbon Regeneration – Business Bytes

5 November 0930h – 1100h

A 90-minute Business Bytes session to discuss low carbon solutions used in major urban regeneration projects – particularly in Glasgow.

This course will be delivered virtually online. See the ‘what is the course about?’ section in course details for more information.

Speakers include

  • Martin McKay – Executive Director of Regeneration, Clyde Gateway (tbc)
  • Hugh Moore – Energy Network Manager, Clyde Gateway
  • Donald MacBrayne, Scottish Water Horizons
  • Anne-Mari Gillespie, CSIC

REGISTER NOW >>

If you don’t measure, you can’t manage

Complete our free self assessment to get your bespoke action plan today. The benefit of assessing is that it provides a tailored action plan. This list of 10 resources tells you where you should focus your learning with direct links to top-quality materials…

Learn more >>

Top stories

The Apprenticeship Opportunity

Linda Hausmanis, IWFM CEO says levy-funded apprenticeships allow employers to invest in their workforce by combining education, work-based learning and ongoing development

Learn More >>

No Jab, No Job?

More than 30 per cent of large UK firms have signalled that staff may be asked for proof of vaccination before they can physically return to work. Karen Holden, CEO of A City Law Firm looks at the legal issues that could arise.

Find Out More >>

Skilled to Succeed

It’s never been more important to develop our people.  In the latest in FM Journal’s series which celebrates the careers of front-line FM workers, hear from Kerrie Carrott, Trainee Fire and Security Engineer, EMCOR UK

Read More >>

 

October’s Featured Topic: Modern Slavery

There are 40.3 million victims in forced labour estimated by the Global Slavery Index, and estimated 136,000 victims in the UK alone. Labour exploitation is a lucrative business for organised crime and the built environment sector is no exception.

We have a wealth of resources to help you understand the principles of modern slavery and how you can use due diligence within your organisational processes to combat the risk of labour exploitation – take a look:

Modern Slavery: An Introduction 

An introductory learning pathway to help you begin to develop your understanding on modern slavery risks within your organisation and supply chain.

Start learning >>

Modern Slavery Due Diligence Prevention Checklist

A best practice checklist, outlining what organisations should have in place to combat modern slavery, designed to help procurement specialists understand how to evaluate supply chain responses to requests for their own due diligence processes. 

Find out more >>

Concrete – Tackling Modern Slavery in the Construction Sector

This video illustrates the forms of modern slavery and how it can manifest in the construction industry.

Watch now >>

 

Financial Wellbeing in the Workplace Lunch ‘n’ Learn

The aim of this lunch n learn is to understand the importance of financial wellbeing in the workplace. Now more than ever, money worries are the biggest cause of stress for UK employees, and are damaging to business too.  People take their money worries to work, affecting their performance and levels of absenteeism.

By attending this session you will:

  • Learn what financial wellbeing is and why it’s important
  • How you can incorporate free resources to support you and your employees
  • Access MaPS UK Partnerships Team to provide support and assistance with your financial wellbeing strategies

EVENT DETAILS:

  • DATE: 21st  October 2021
  • TIME: 10:30am -11:30am
  • LOCATION: Online
Register for FREE now >>

Top stories

Government Predicts Massive Infrastructure Spend, Do we have Capacity to Deliver?

In its National Infrastructure and Construction Pipeline, the government has set out how £650bn of private and public investment will be spent over the next 10 years with Whitehall saying it expects up to £31bn to be spent on economic and social infrastructure projects in the 2021/22 financial year.

Find out more >>

CLC Seeks Industry Support for Next Zero Carbon

The Construction Leadership Council is calling on businesses from across the industry to play their part in securing net zero carbon construction 2050. In this year of the UK hosting COP 26, the CLC says it is imperative that the construction sector steps up to the challenge and supports the Race to Zero.

Learn More >>

The Built Environment Joins Forces To Address Air Quality

The Supply Chain Sustainability School (SCSS) is leading the way for the UK’s built environment to drastically reduce onsite emissions to air that are harmful to human health and the planet, such that they will reach net zero by 2040 and contribute to UN Sustainable Development Goals 3, 11 and 13.

Read More >>

 

October’s Featured Topic: Modern Slavery

There are 40.3 million victims in forced labour estimated by the Global Slavery Index, and estimated 136,000 victims in the UK alone. Labour exploitation is a lucrative business for organised crime and the built environment sector is no exception.

We have a wealth of resources to help you understand the principles of modern slavery and how you can use due diligence within your organisational processes to combat the risk of labour exploitation – take a look:

Modern Slavery: An Introduction 

An introductory learning pathway to help you begin to develop your understanding on modern slavery risks within your organisation and supply chain.

Start learning >>

Modern Slavery Due Diligence Prevention Checklist

A best practice checklist, outlining what organisations should have in place to combat modern slavery, designed to help procurement specialists understand how to evaluate supply chain responses to requests for their own due diligence processes. 

Find out more >>

Concrete – Tackling Modern Slavery in the Construction Sector

This video illustrates the forms of modern slavery and how it can manifest in the construction industry.

Watch now >>

 

What is Modern Slavery & the current trends Lunch ‘n’ Learn

Join Slave-Free Alliance and School Partner Electricity North West for an overview on modern slavery and current trends. The blend of knowledge and sector insight will give you overview into what it is, how it can take place and how to spot the signs across utility operations and the supply chain.

At the end of this Lunch ‘n’ Learn you will:

  • Have an improved understanding of the Modern Slavery Act 2015
  • Find out how to identify the signs on slavery within the supply chain
  • Gain some insight into the strategic framework that can be used to ensure transparency in supply chains

EVENT DETAILS:

  • DATE: 20th October 2021
  • TIME: 12:00pm -13:00pm
  • LOCATION: Online
Register for FREE now >>

Top stories

Net Zero Strategies Debated

Partners Transport for Wales, Wales & West Utilities and Welsh Water discussed ideas including a greater role for hydrogen, planting seagrass, energy efficient heating and lighting, and switching to renewable energy at the Game Changers: Sustainable and Net Zero roundtable.

Find out more >>

£5.87 Low Carbon Growth Programme Approved

The UK and Welsh Government have approved the £58.7 million Swansea Bay City Deal’s Supporting Innovation and Low Carbon Growth programme.

Read more >>

The Push Towards Offsite Construction is Nothing New

Take a look at Sears Homes from 1908 -1914, demonstrating that the push towards Offsite Construction is nothing new!

Take a look >>

 

October’s Featured Topic: Modern Slavery

There are 40.3 million victims in forced labour estimated by the Global Slavery Index, and estimated 136,000 victims in the UK alone. Labour exploitation is a lucrative business for organised crime and the built environment sector is no exception.

We have a wealth of resources to help you understand the principles of modern slavery and how you can use due diligence within your organisational processes to combat the risk of labour exploitation – take a look:

Modern Slavery: An Introduction 

An introductory learning pathway to help you begin to develop your understanding on modern slavery risks within your organisation and supply chain.

Start learning >>

Modern Slavery Due Diligence Prevention Checklist

A best practice checklist, outlining what organisations should have in place to combat modern slavery, designed to help procurement specialists understand how to evaluate supply chain responses to requests for their own due diligence processes. 

Find out more >>

Concrete – Tackling Modern Slavery in the Construction Sector

This video illustrates the forms of modern slavery and how it can manifest in the construction industry.

Watch now >>

 

Anxiety Lunch ‘n’ Learn

Anxiety is the body’s natural response to stress. It’s a feeling of fear and unease about what’s to come. In 2013 there was 8.2 million cases of anxiety in the UK.

This Lunch ‘n’ Learn explains the anxiety cycle and the complexities and triggers associated with the different types of anxiety that can affect us.

By attending this session you will:

  • Gain an understanding of the anxiety cycle.
  • Understand the different types of anxiety and anxiety disorders.
  • Learn different strategies which can help in coping with the symptoms of anxiety that can arise in our daily lives.

EVENT DETAILS:

  • DATE: 19th October 2021
  • TIME: 12:00pm -13:00pm
  • LOCATION: Online
Register for FREE now >>

Top stories

Climate change: Construction companies told to stop knocking down buildings

Britain’s top engineers are urging the government to stop buildings being demolished. They say the construction industry should where possible re-use buildings, employ more recycled material, and use machinery powered by clean fuels.

Find out more >>

55% of commercial property firms recorded increased demand for ‘green’ buildings amid Covid-19

In the commercial property sector, respondents were asked about investor and occupier appetite for buildings considered ‘green’ or ‘sustainable’. Globally, 55% of respondents said demand had risen.

Take a look >>

Balfour Beatty, in Partnership with the School, launch findings of their Greening the Chain survey

The survey, targeting the construction and infrastructure industry’s supply chain partners, aimed to understand the barriers, issues and opportunities faced by the sector in achieving Net Zero. In the findings, Balfour Beatty provide access to key recommendations for policy makers, customers, and the wider industry to help it to achieve Net Zero.

Discover more >>

 

October’s Featured Topic: Modern Slavery

There are 40.3 million victims in forced labour estimated by the Global Slavery Index, and estimated 136,000 victims in the UK alone. Labour exploitation is a lucrative business for organised crime and the construction industry is no exception.

We have a wealth of resources to help you understand the principles of modern slavery and how you can use due diligence within your organisational processes to combat the risk of labour exploitation – take a look:

Modern Slavery: An Introduction 

An introductory learning pathway to help you begin to develop your understanding on modern slavery risks within your organisation and supply chain.

Start learning >>

Modern Slavery Due Diligence Prevention Checklist

A best practice checklist, outlining what organisations should have in place to combat modern slavery, designed to help procurement specialists understand how to evaluate supply chain responses to requests for their own due diligence processes. 

Find out more >>

Concrete – Tackling Modern Slavery in the Construction Sector

This video illustrates the forms of modern slavery and how it can manifest in the construction industry.

Watch now >>

Top stories

Housebuilder Awards 2021 finalists announced

The finalists of the Housebuilder Awards 2021 have been revealed with Vistry Group, Barratt and Taylor Wimpey performing strongly. 

Find out more >>

School Partner Vistry announces its commitment to carbon reduction 

Vistry Group has announced its commitment to some ambitious carbon reduction targets for the business, with the housebuilder planning to incorporate sustainability criteria into its executive remuneration from next year.

Read more >>

UK’s retrofit industry must grow by ten times to play role in reaching net-zero

The UK’s retrofitting industry needs to grow by ten times its current size if the UK is to decarbonise its housing stock at a pace suitable for the wider net-zero emissions target, new research has revealed.

Take a look >>

 

October’s Featured Topic: Modern Slavery

There are 40.3 million victims in forced labour estimated by the Global Slavery Index, and estimated 136,000 victims in the UK alone. Labour exploitation is a lucrative business for organised crime and the built environment sector is no exception.

We have a wealth of resources to help you understand the principles of modern slavery and how you can use due diligence within your organisational processes to combat the risk of labour exploitation – take a look:

Modern Slavery: An Introduction 

An introductory learning pathway to help you begin to develop your understanding on modern slavery risks within your organisation and supply chain.

Start learning >>

Modern Slavery Due Diligence Prevention Checklist

A best practice checklist, outlining what organisations should have in place to combat modern slavery, designed to help procurement specialists understand how to evaluate supply chain responses to requests for their own due diligence processes. 

Find out more >>

Concrete – Tackling Modern Slavery in the Construction Sector

This video illustrates the forms of modern slavery and how it can manifest in the construction industry.

Watch now >>

 

Future Homes Task Force – Business Bytes

Join this session with Barratt Developments, Telford Homes, Thakeham Group, Places for People and Broadway Initiative to hear about the key elements of the Future Homes Delivery Plan and Hub, and understand how this will impact your organisation.

You will hear insights on the challenges and opportunities for the supply chain around embodied carbon and construction methods that are net zero; low carbon placemaking; infrastructure smart systems and energy; and ensuring businesses operations are in line with the Race to Zero.

Register for FREE now >>

Sustainability Tool partners with Supply Chain Sustainability School to launch a free carbon calculator for supply chains

 

Sustainability Tool, a software application designed to help organisations and supply chains track and measure their sustainability performance, has today launched a carbon calculator, in partnership with the Supply Chain Sustainability School (SCSS).

With 80-99 per cent of the built environment’s total carbon footprint coming from their supply chain, the Sustainability Tool’s carbon calculator will play an integral role in supporting businesses in their fight against climate change.

Charles Naud, Head of Product at Sustainability Tool, said: “With COP26 approaching swiftly, there’s never been a more appropriate time for companies to delve into their supply chains for carbon measurement and reporting. The carbon calculator will be a company’s greatest ally in their quest to reach net zero and reduce their carbon emissions. With our suite of customisable and simple reporting software offerings, our aim is to be a one-stop-shop for all sustainability reporting and performance management.”

A spin-off of the Sustainability Tool, the carbon calculator’s purpose is twofold: (1) to support supply chains with calculating their greenhouse gas emissions, and (2) to provide clients with a view of emissions embedded in their supply chains (i.e. their scope 3 emissions). Suppliers can either input their emissions by scope (if those are already known to them), or complete a simple report covering fossil fuel, company travel, gas, electricity consumption, materials, waste and water data. Upon completion, the report automatically calculates emissions in a dashboard that supports submissions to Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) and other carbon reporting frameworks. The system also permits suppliers to apportion a percentage of their carbon emissions to clients based on financial turnover.

The carbon calculator will be offered free-of-charge to Supply Chain Sustainability School members (suppliers), whereby they can register for free. The tool is also offered to Partners (clients) of the School, presenting them with a full view of their scope 3 carbon data.

Martin Gettings, Group Director Sustainability at Canary Wharf Group, said: “The carbon calculator has resulted from an industry-wide collaboration of clients, main contractors and trade contractors, across the Supply Chain Sustainability School. We’ve established a standardised data collection and reporting mechanism for supply chain carbon. This hugely benefits suppliers, because it enables one simple carbon measurement exercise, the results of which can easily be shared with their major clients.”

Julia Barrett, Chief Sustainability Officer at Willmott Dixon, said: “As a company committed to delivering net zero embodied carbon by 2040, it’s paramount that we equip our supply chain partners with the necessary tools and support to reduce emissions. The carbon calculator provides all our partners with a simple and robust approach to calculating and understanding their emissions.  Through this initiative, the Supply Chain Sustainability School offers a unique opportunity for our industry to work together in reducing our emissions.”

The carbon calculator is also available for usage across other industries, whilst the Sustainability Tool can help businesses report and manage sustainability performance across more than just carbon, whether that be within an organisation, its projects, contracts and supply chain.

 

 

 

 

DfMA Overlay to the RIBA Plan of Work

The DfMA Overlay to the RIBA Plan of Work is in the final stages of production and will be launched on the 15th September, at our online conference bringing together contributors and practitioners at the forefront of the industry.

We’ll be discussing key topics arising from production of the Overlay, including:

  • Are we at a tipping point in embedding DfMA as ‘business as usual’?
  • What are the key obstacles to this?
  • Which roles are best placed to introduce DfMA on projects?
  • What are the implications for designers and architectural practices?

Confirmed speakers:

  • Mark Farmer, Cast, UK Government MMC Champion
  • Dale Sinclair, Aecom
  • Connie Longmate, MHCLG
  • Sam Stacey, UK Research & Innovation
  • Jamie Hillier, Akerlof
  • Lanre Gbolade, L&Q
  • And more!

Don’t miss it, book your free place now. 

Offsite Assessment

Another project almost at completion is our new Offsite Assessment, which we’re expecting to launch in October. This feature will allow School members to better position their Offsite knowledge within current best practice with detailed maturity statements. A tailored plan of learning will be recommended following completion which contains the most up to date industry knowledge.

Upcoming training sessions…

  • Offsite for Quantity Surveyors and Cost Consultants Workshop, 7th September, 9 AM – 12 PM. Register now
  • Offsite Expo (various sessions), 21st and 22nd September, Ricoh Arena, Coventry. Register now

Offsite resources recommended for you this month…

NEW: Kier have recently relaunched the MMC Database, an interactive map detailing the full spectrum of MMC technologies and manufacturers available to organisations looking to choose offsite. Find out more

NEW: We were recently joined by James Hahessy who explained JLG’s journey into integrating BIM technologies into their logistics operation. You can catch up with the recording now on our resource library. Watch now

If you don’t measure, you can’t manage

Complete our free self assessment to get your bespoke action plan today. The list of resources will advise you where you should focus your learning with direct links to top-quality materials.

You can also benchmark your company’s offsite maturity here.

Top Stories for Scotland this Month

 

SEPA engages innovative modelling techniques to help Scotland better prepare for future flooding

SEPA is introducing new flood hazard mapping which will provide a clearer indication of surface water (also known as pluvial) flood risk now and in future.

Read Now >>

Kier, Morgan Sindall and McLaughlin & Harvey chosen for SCAPE Scotland Construction framework

Public sector procurement authority SCAPE Scotland has announced the three contractors that will help deliver up to £2 billion of public sector investment across its next-generation construction framework, following the conclusion of a rigorous procurement process.

Read Now >>

SSE have published their annual sustainability report

We are proud to support SSE in the run up to COP 26. Look at their sustainability report for more information.

Read More >>

Sustainable Procurement resources recommended for you this month

Built environment projects with major contractors can pass up to 80% of spending through to their supply chain. Subsequently, sustainable procurement is a critical part of client and contractor policies and strategies, which is often reflected in tendering processes. See our recommended resources for this topic below…

What is Whole Life Costing? An introduction to the concept of whole life costing by Wilmott Dixon

Read More >>

How to be a responsible supplier  Advice on what small businesses need to understand about clients who are using the new ISO standard for sustainable procurement – ISO20400

 Learn More >>

SDGs and Decision Making  Research Paper from the Centre for Environment and Sustainability, University of Surrey

Get Started >>

Recommended from Scotland

Keep your eyes peeled for our new Scotland events coming up in the next few months! In the meantime, check out our market page for resources and news

TAKE A LOOK >>

Upcoming Events…

Offsite and Mass Timber Construction – Business Bytes

This 90-minute Business Bytes session will continue discussions that the Centre for Advanced Timber Technology (CATT) is having with industry, to accelerate the use of renewable resources using factory based approaches and digital technology.

Register Now >>

Designing/Embedding Resilience in Infrastructure – Business Bytes

A 90-minute Business Bytes session to discuss nature-based solutions in infrastructure projects.

Register Now >>

If you don’t measure, you can’t manage

Complete our free self assessment to get your bespoke action plan today. The benefit of assessing is that it provides a tailored action plan. This list of 10 resources tells you where you should focus your learning with direct links to top-quality materials…

Learn more >>

Top stories

IPCC climate report: construction responds to ‘code red’ warning

Major construction firms have warned the industry needs to decarbonise rapidly in the wake of a ‘code red’ report on climate change.

Find out more >>

UK Hydrogen Strategy published, with Government targeting £4bn of private investment by 2030

The UK Government has today (17 August) published its much-awaited Hydrogen Strategy, outlining plans to unlock £4bn of investment in blue and green generation, storage and usage this decade.

Discover more >>

SMEs ‘finding ways round’ material shortages

Construction SMEs are finding solutions to address material shortages, despite the widespread effect they have had on the industry over the past year

Read more >>

 

September Featured Topic: Sustainable Procurement

Built environment projects with major contractors can pass up to 80% of spending through to their supply chain. Subsequently, sustainable procurement is a critical part of client and contractor policies and strategies, which is often reflected in tendering processes. Find out more about this topic with the recommended resources below…

Upcoming virtual training: Sustainable Procurement Lunch ‘n’ Learn

A 1 hour Lunch ‘n’ Learn to provide you with an understanding about Sustainable Procurement and the ISO 20400 standard as a framework for embedding sustainability.

Don’t miss it >>

Recommended Construction resource: The Social Value Model – PPN06/20

Government has defined social value through a series of priority themes and policy outcomes which are important to deliver through government’s commercial activities. The Social Value Model provides a consistent approach for departments and suppliers and helps to streamline and standardise the procurement process.

Start now >>

More recommended resources:

What is Whole Life Costing

An introduction to the concept of whole life costing by Wilmott Dixon

Take a look >>

How to be a Responsible Supplier

Advice on what small businesses need to understand about clients who are using the new ISO standard for sustainable procurement – ISO20400

Read now >>

SDGs and Decision Making

Research Paper from the Centre for Environment and Sustainability, University of Surrey

Find out more >>

 

Top stories

TfL plans £600m Warmer Homes framework

Transport for London is planning to put together a framework of prequalified contractors for £600m-worth of domestic energy installations.

Find out more >>

Millions of UK homes could be heated with hydrogen by 2030

About 3 million households in the UK could begin using low-carbon hydrogen to heat their homes and cook rather than fossil fuel gas under government proposals to attract at least £4bn of investment to the hydrogen economy by 2030.

Read more >>

Report calls for action for more modular housing

New report calls for the government and housebuilders to come together and harness the benefits of modular housing, published by the Cambridge Centre for Housing & Planning Research and Places for People.

Discover more >>

 

September’s Featured Topic: Sustainable Procurement

Built environment projects with major contractors can pass up to 80% of spending through to their supply chain. Subsequently, sustainable procurement is a critical part of client and contractor policies and strategies, which is often reflected in tendering processes. Find out more about this topic with the recommended resources below…

Upcoming virtual training: Sustainable Procurement Lunch ‘n’ Learn

A 1 hour Lunch ‘n’ Learn to provide you with an understanding about Sustainable Procurement and the ISO 20400 standard as a framework for embedding sustainability.

Don’t miss it >>

Recommended Homes resource: Sustainable Procurement – An Introduction

This video introduces sustainable procurement – making sure that the products and services an organisation generate benefits not only for the organisation, but also for the environment, society and the economy.

Start now >>

More recommended resources:

What is Whole life costing

An introduction to the concept of whole life costing by Wilmott Dixon.

Take a look >>

How to be a Responsible Supplier.

Advice on what small businesses need to understand about clients who are using the new ISO standard for sustainable procurement – ISO20400

Read now >>

SDGs and Decision Making.

Research Paper from the Centre for Environment and Sustainability, University of Surrey

Find out more >>

Wates Group and Lloyds Banking Group are working together to pioneer sustainable technologies in a bid to accelerate the built environment’s transition to Net Zero carbon.

 

The new collaboration follows the launch of the Wates Innovation Network (WIN) Portal, a first-of-its-kind and free to use network that connects built environment customers to market-leading sustainable technologies and services.

Five suppliers will be chosen to present their product directly to Lloyds Banking Group and the most successful product will be piloted throughout their estate.

They are particularly interested to hear about products and services that will:

  • Reduce direct carbon emissions related to electricity, gas, and refrigerants
  • Improve energy efficiency in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technologies
  • Enhance building energy performance and control
  • Remove gas from building operations
  • Save water in commercial buildings
  • Increase thermal performance of the building fabric

The winning technologies will be piloted on Lloyds Banking Group’s estate of properties, helping them achieve their operational pledges to reduce energy consumption, carbon emissions and water use. The collaboration builds on the businesses’ existing relationship, which includes a ten-year programme of fit-out works by Wates Smartspace across Lloyds Banking Group’s estate.

Register your interest here

 

The Supply Chain Sustainability School Wales-Cymru Leadership Group represents a collaboration of prime contractors, utility companies, industry stakeholders, materials and service suppliers.
The group is comprised of procurement, operational and sustainability leads from several partner organisations, including:

  • Alcumus
  • BAM
  • Bouygues
  • CITB
  • Galliford Try
  • ISG
  • Kier
  • Morgan Sindall
  • NPTC Group
  • SEWSCAP
  • Siemens
  • Transport for Wales
  • Welsh Water / Dŵr Cymru
  • Willmott Dixon

This group meets quarterly to lead and steer the direction of the School’s activities, resources and strategy for Wales. At the last meeting in July, the group members were asked to respond to two questions posed by the School:

  1. ‘What should the School be looking at in Wales to support partners and members?’
  2. ‘Who should the School be linking with to maximise our impact?’

The Group Chair, Wyn Prichard, together with David Emery from the Supply Chain Sustainability School will be formulating an agenda for the next year based on members’ responses to these questions.

However, it’s not too late to give us your thoughts and ideas so please do consider attending the meetings or by using the email address below.

The Group’s next meeting is on 23rd September 2021. If you would like the Group to discuss any matter concerning the School, or are interested in joining the Group itself, please contact David Emery

FM Market Update: September 2021

 

Top stories for FM this month:

 

Workplace Futures return to the workplace:

Hear about this free to attend online event from the Workplace Futures conference team, which focused on some key challenges for FMs in managing the widescale return to the workplace. Find out More>>

Catering for the future:

FMJ hears from catering and vending specialists on how food and drink services are being adjusted to support new working patterns, meet variable demands and contribute to a more hospitable workplace atmosphere. Learn More>>

Getting back on track with carbon reduction:

Preparing for the widescale reopening of buildings, the need to maintain a low carbon footprint remains a priority. But with lockdown making it difficult to even produce an accurate analysis of energy management rates over the past year how can FMs help their customers to meet carbon cutting targets? Read More>>

September’s  featured topic: Sustainable Procurement

Sustainable Procurement is procurement that has the most positive environmental, social and economic impacts possible over the entire life cycle.

Take a look at the selected resources below to start to develop your understanding on the importance of Sustainable Procurement in FM.

Sustainable Procurement resources recommended for you this month:

What is Whole life costing? – Willmott Dixon provides an introduction to the concept of whole life costing. Read the document>>

How to be a responsible supplier –  This document provides advice on what small businesses need to understand about clients who are using the new ISO standard for sustainable procurement – ISO20400. Find out more>>

SDGS & Decision Making –  A Research Paper from the Centre for Environment and Sustainability, University of Surrey which looks into ‘Can the SDGs Provide a Basis for Supply Chain
Decisions in the Construction Sector?’ Learn more>>

Wellbeing in the Workplace Business Bytes

Join EMCOR UK & Welfare Hire on the 21st September from 10:00am -12:00pm at our Wellbeing in the Workplace Business Bytes.

Join this Business Bytes session to understand where your organisation is on the pathway to embedding wellbeing and pick up hints and tips about what you can do right now to help make this happen.

By attending this session you will:

  • Hear from EMCOR UK about levelling up workplace mental and physical health, including how implementing ISO 45003:2021 Occupational Health and Safety Management can help.
  • Hear from Welfare Hire who will share their research and best practice examples of linking on-site welfare with wellbeing.
  • Understand the various impacts Covid on employee wellbeing and how to effectively manage them in the workplace.
REGISTER NOW >

If you have questions about FM or the School please contact [email protected]

Infrastructure Market Update: September 2021

 

Top stories for Infrastructure this month:

 

Construction Leadership Group Council pushes for Net Zero Carbon:

The Construction Leadership Council is calling on businesses from across the industry to play their part in securing net zero carbon construction 2050. To help achieve this, the CLC has announced CO2nstruct Zero – a cross-industry change programme to drive carbon out of all parts of the construction sector, from manufacturing and design to construction and operation of assets. Learn More>>

Opposition to HS2 gathers momentum:

MPs back bid to halt HS2 as petition triggers Parliamentary debate. A debate is confirmed for 13 September after public petition gathers more than 150,000 signatures. Read More>>

Highways England A303 project halted by court ruling:

The legal challenge against the decision to grant consent for the A303 Amesbury to Berwick Down scheme past Stonehenge has been upheld by the High Court judge. Find out More>>

September’s  featured topic: Sustainable Procurement

Sustainable Procurement is procurement that has the most positive environmental, social and economic impacts possible over the entire life cycle.

Take a look at the selected resources below to start to develop your understanding on the importance of Sustainable Procurement in the Infrastructure sector.

Sustainable Procurement resources recommended for you this month:

What is Whole life costing? – Willmott Dixon provides an introduction to the concept of whole life costing. Read the document>>

How to be a responsible supplier –  This document provides advice on what small businesses need to understand about clients who are using the new ISO standard for sustainable procurement – ISO20400. Find out more>>

SDGS & Decision Making –  A Research Paper from the Centre for Environment and Sustainability, University of Surrey which looks into ‘Can the SDGs Provide a Basis for Supply Chain
Decisions in the Construction Sector?’ Learn more>>

Wellbeing in the Workplace Business Bytes

Join EMCOR UK & Welfare Hire on the 21st September from 10:00am -12:00pm at our Wellbeing in the Workplace Business Bytes.

Join this Business Bytes session to understand where your organisation is on the pathway to embedding wellbeing and pick up hints and tips about what you can do right now to help make this happen.

By attending this session you will:

  • Hear from EMCOR UK about levelling up workplace mental and physical health, including how implementing ISO 45003:2021 Occupational Health and Safety Management can help.
  • Hear from Welfare Hire who will share their research and best practice examples of linking on-site welfare with wellbeing.
  • Understand the various impacts Covid on employee wellbeing and how to effectively manage them in the workplace.
REGISTER NOW >

If you have questions about Infrastructure or the School please contact [email protected]

DfMA Overlay to the RIBA Plan of Work

We’re gearing up for the DfMA Overlay virtual launch on the 15th September, where we’ll be joined by expert speakers from RIBA, Cast Consultancy, MHCLG, UKRI and top architectural practices for a series of short keynotes and interactive roundtable discussions on key DfMA topics. Don’t miss it, book your free place now. 

Sector news…

Deploying modular housing in the UK: Calls for the government and housebuilders to come together and harness the benefits of modular housing come from a new report, published by the Cambridge Centre for Housing & Planning Research on behalf of housing provider group Places for People. Find out more

Hydrogen Homes: Built using offsite methods by Totally Modular, new homes in Gateshead have recently opened demonstrating the use of 100% hydrogen appliances in a homes setting for the first time. Find out more

Other upcoming training sessions…

  • Digital Innovation in Offsite Construction – Lunch ‘n’ Learn with JLG Industries, 17th August 1 – 2 PM. Register now
  • Offsite for Quantity Surveyors and Cost Consultants Workshop, 7th September, 9 AM – 12 PM. Register now
  • Offsite Expo (various sessions), 21st and 22nd September, Ricoh Arena, Coventry. Register now

Offsite resources recommended for you this month…

NEW: Kier have recently relaunched the MMC Database, an interactive map detailing the full spectrum of MMC technologies and manufacturers available to organisations looking to choose offsite. Find out more

NEW: Last week we were joined by Nigel Fraser from Buildoffsite, discussing the Offsite response to the Construction Playbook, particularly how suppliers can evolve to make the most of the opportunities. Watch now

If you don’t measure, you can’t manage

Complete our free self assessment to get your bespoke action plan today. The list of resources will advise you where you should focus your learning with direct links to top-quality materials.

You can also benchmark your company’s offsite maturity here.

Top Stories for Scotland this Month

 

SEPA and Robertson partner to build Scotland’s greener future

The construction company act as a ‘critical friend’ highlighting any systemic issues with environmental regulation

Read More >>

Scotland’s hot weather spikes water demand by 200 million litres a day

People watering plants and filling paddling pools pushed the demand for water by 200 million litres a day last week, Scottish Water has said.

Read More >>

Morrison Construction partners with social enterprise on training initiative

Morrison Construction has partnered with GTS Solutions CIC (GTS), one of Scotland’s leading social enterprises, to launch a training initiative aimed at bringing more people into the industry.

Read More >>

To build a more profitable and sustainable industry new and smarter construction techniques are needed. Offsite is making construction leaner, greener and more efficient.

Take a look at the selected resources below to start to develop your understanding on the importance of Offsite in Scotland.

Offsite resources recommended for you this month:

Offsite Fundamentals -Systems – This interactive e-learning module provides an explanation of offsite, the common systems and materials used and the modern methods of construction hierarchy. Watch the Module>>

Offsite Procurement –  John Skivington, Direct at LHC provides an overview of offsite procurement in this short video. Watch the Video>>

CIRIA Offsite Standardisation and Pre- Assembly Toolkit –  This standardisation and pre-assembly procedure are applied through a series of reviews. Guidance on key issues for S&P workshops is also found in this tool. View the Toolkit>>

Recommended from Scotland

The School is working with partners and stakeholders on a series of new events for the Scottish Market taking place in Autumn 2021:

  • Offsite Virtual Conference – Focus on Timber Engineering with CATT (Centre for Advanced Timber Engineering) and Robertson Timber Engineering  21 October
  • Designing and Building Resilience into Infrastructure Projects with Nature Scot 28 October
  • Low Carbon Urban Regeneration in East Glasgow with Clyde Gateway and Scottish Water date TBC

The School is also contributing to the SP Energy Networks event “Sustainable Electricity Network of the Future” – due to take place during COP26

Keep your eyes peeled for further information on these and other new Scotland events coming up in the next few weeks! In the meantime, check out our full events page for all our training opportunities

Market Page >>

SSE Climate Academy

The School is working with SSE to deliver 5 workshops as part of a “Climate Academy” training series for their staff, as part of SSE being a key partner for COP26.

These workshops will take place during the period leading up to COP26. They will cover Climate Change, Net Zero, Adaptation, Biodiversity and Social Impact.

Introducing the School’s new Energy & Carbon E-learning Content

We have now developed and published four brand new resources on Climate Change and Carbon. Please take a look at these resources, inspired by our Leadership Group’s focus on carbon and the forthcoming COP26 taking place in Glasgow.

Get started today:

If you don’t measure, you can’t manage

Complete our free self assessment to get your bespoke action plan today. The benefit of assessing is that it provides a tailored action plan. This list of 10 resources tells you where you should focus your learning with direct links to top-quality materials…

Learn more >>

 

The Supply Chain Sustainability School Scotland Leadership Group represents a collaboration of prime contractors, utility companies, industry stakeholders, materials and service suppliers.

The group is comprised of procurement, operational and sustainability leads from several partner organisations:

  • Balfour Beatty
  • Morgan Sindall
  • BAM
  • Robertson
  • Marshalls
  • Elliott
  • Cementation Skanska
  • Construction Scotland Innovation Centre
  • Reconomy
  • Zero Waste Scotland
  • Scottish Water
  • SSE
  • SGN
  • SP Energy Networks
  • Siemens Mobility
  • CITB
  • Kier

Together, this group meet quarterly to lead and steer the direction of the School’s activities, resources and strategy for Scotland. Five priorities were set for 2021-2022:

  1. Build carbon literacy and measure impact on carbon reduction
  2. Standardise engagement and activation of priority suppliers
  3. Increase access to the School’s online learning 
  4. Increase membership across Scotland
  5. Develop new learning content and pathways for Scottish Market

The Leadership Group have been instrumental in creating new Learning Pathways on waste and resource efficiency for Scotland, and oversee the delivery of specific training aimed at the Scottish supply chain.

The Group’s next meeting is on 26 August. If you would like the Group to discuss any matter concerning the School, or are interested in joining the Group itself, please contact [email protected]

Top stories

New homes not ready for climate change – CCC

New homes are unsuitable for climate change, with more than 570,000 residential properties built since 2016 not able to withstand future high temperatures, according to an assessment led by the Climate Change Committee (CCC).

Find out more >>

UK’s first hydrogen-fuelled demonstration homes opened

Two homes fuelled entirely by hydrogen are being showcased to demonstrate the potential of the new energy supply in helping the United Kingdom decarbonise its housing.

Discover more >>

ilke announces mainstream zero carbon home

Modular housing company ilke Homes has unveiled its “mainstream” zero carbon home which it says will save consumers £1,000 a year with the promise of “zero bills”.

Read more >>

 

August’s Featured Topic: Offsite

To build a more profitable and sustainable industry new and smarter construction techniques are needed. Offsite is making construction leaner, greener and more efficient.

Take a look at the selected resources below to start to develop your understanding on the importance of Offsite in the Homes sector.

Offsite Fundamentals -Systems – This interactive e-learning module provides an explanation of offsite, the common systems and materials used and the modern methods of construction hierarchy. Watch the Module>>

Offsite Procurement –  John Skivington, Direct at LHC provides an overview of offsite procurement in this short video. Watch the Video>>

CIRIA Offsite Standardisation and Pre- Assembly Toolkit –  This standardisation and pre-assembly procedure are applied through a series of reviews. Guidance on key issues for S&P workshops is also found in this tool. View the Toolkit>>

Benchmark your Sustainability Knowledge

Want to understand your sustainability knowledge level, and know how that compares to others in the sector? It’s easy to find out… just take an assessment today with our FREE tool. It’s designed to help you, or your company, assess your current level of knowledge and identify strengths and hot spots.

Once you’ve assessed, you get a tailored action plan – this list of 10 resources tells you where to focus your learning.

ASSESS NOW >

Top stories

Circular economy could deliver 80% of UK’s next carbon budget

By embedding circular economy principles in major policy frameworks, the UK could deliver 80% of the additional emissions cuts needed to meet its Fifth Carbon Budget, which covers 2028-2032.

Read more >>

Demand for construction workers close to 20-year high

The staff shortage in construction is continuing to bite, with 33,000 job vacancies for the period of April to June according to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics.

Discover more >>

SBTi to increase minimum target-setting requirements to 1.5C

The Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) is updating its strategic approach to increase the minimum ambition for corporate climate action from “well below 2C” to 1.5C above pre-industrial levels, as envisioned by the Paris Agreement.

Find out more >>

 

August’s Featured Topic: Offsite

To build a more profitable and sustainable industry new and smarter construction techniques are needed. Offsite is making construction leaner, greener and more efficient.

Take a look at the selected resources below to start to develop your understanding on the importance of Offsite in the Construction sector.

Offsite Fundamentals -Systems – This interactive e-learning module provides an explanation of offsite, the common systems and materials used and the modern methods of construction hierarchy. Watch the Module>>

Offsite Procurement –  John Skivington, Direct at LHC provides an overview of offsite procurement in this short video. Watch the Video>>

CIRIA Offsite Standardisation and Pre- Assembly Toolkit –  This standardisation and pre-assembly procedure are applied through a series of reviews. Guidance on key issues for S&P workshops is also found in this tool. View the Toolkit>>

Benchmark your Sustainability Knowledge

Want to understand your sustainability knowledge level, and know how that compares to others in the sector? It’s easy to find out… just take an assessment today with our FREE tool. It’s designed to help you, or your company, assess your current level of knowledge and identify strengths and hot spots.

Once you’ve assessed, you get a tailored action plan – this list of 10 resources tells you where to focus your learning.

ASSESS NOW >

FM Market Update: August 2021

 

Top stories for FM this month:

 

Circular Economy Investment grows but more needed:

Chatham House reports that Governments, investors and corporates collectively funnel more than $1.3trn annually into circular economy initiatives, but this is just a fraction of the money that is currently spent on linear methods of consumption and resource use. Find out More>>

Putting on a front:

Faced with so much disruption to traditional working patterns, what provisions can front of house specialists make to support new ways of welcoming people into the workplace? Learn More>>

What is next for Offices?:

The forced adoption of remote working has created opportunities, but is also exposing new social risks, according to JLL, which has been avidly measuring the effects of the disruption over the past year as workers adapted to homeworking. Read More>>

August’s featured topic: Offsite

To build a more profitable and sustainable industry new and smarter construction techniques are needed. Offsite is making construction leaner, greener and more efficient.

Take a look at the selected resources below to start to develop your understanding on the importance of Offsite in the FM sector.

Offsite resources recommended for you this month:

Offsite Fundamentals -Systems – This interactive e-learning module provides an explanation of offsite, the common systems and materials used and the modern methods of construction hierarchy. Watch the Module>>

Offsite Procurement –  John Skivington, Direct at LHC provides an overview of offsite procurement in this short video. Watch the Video>>

CIRIA Offsite Standardisation and Pre- Assembly Toolkit –  This standardisation and pre-assembly procedure are applied through a series of reviews. Guidance on key issues for S&P workshops is also found in this tool. View the Toolkit>>

Self Care Lunch ‘n’ Learn 

Join us on the 19th August from 12:00pm -13:00pm at our Self Care Lunch ‘n’ Learn!

This Lunch n Learn will provide you with an understanding of how self-care practices can improve our lives. Learning, observing and engaging in self-care is a key life skill which helps us stay focused, feel happier and often lends itself to a better work-life balance. Understand practical ways to create self-care into our everyday lives to help us look after our minds and bodies and help us function at our best.

REGISTER NOW >

If you have questions about FM or the School please contact [email protected]