“Development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs."
(Brundtland, 1987)
Sustainable development requires a holistic consideration of environmental, social and economic issues in the decision-making process and when we undertake our activities.
A sustainable built environment will deliver and manage buildings and infrastructure that provide greater satisfaction; increased well-being and value to users. It also enables greater social value to be delivered, reduces risk and respects and treats stakeholders more fairly, enhancing and protecting the natural environment, minimising the impact, the consumption of energy and natural resources as well as making the industry more profitable and more competitive.
Taking a sustainable approach will encourage us to think more about the true value and costs of our activities and consider the impacts we might be having on the environment and society.
Sustainability at work
Everyone has a part to play in a sustainable future. Even individuals supporting major construction projects in an office environment can make a difference. This toolbox talk is designed as an introduction to sustainability for office and support employees providing them with a number of ways they can contribute both to the sustainability agenda as well your organisational goals.
In OECD countries, the built environment is responsible for around 25-40% of total energy use, 30% of raw material use, 30-40% of global greenhouse gas emissions (45% in the UK), for 30 to 40% of solid waste generation and people spend almost 90% of their life inside buildings. Consequently, our industry has a significant opportunity and responsibility to help tackle these sustainability issues.
The Government’s sustainability strategies for the built environment outline clear targets for improvements and bodies such as BREEAM, CEEQUAL, and the Sustainable Facilities Management Index provide practical systems for measuring and reporting sustainability within projects.
The School is also here to help and can provide you with up to the minute learning resources on developing a sustainability strategy that is right for your business and case studies from large and small businesses that have transformed their fortunes by taking a more sustainable approach.
Start your sustainability journey today by viewing our resource library and gain a better understanding of the issues which will affect your business, in your local areas and what you can do to mitigate risk, meet legislative requirements and bring sustainability benefits to your business.
Sustainable Procurement
Sustainability strategies for delivering goods
Document / Presentation
15 minutesSustainability Strategy
Costain’s sustainability strategy
Document / Presentation
15 minutesSustainability Strategy
Crossrail’s sustainability and innovation strategy
Document / Presentation
30 minutes
Sustainability Assessment
Sustainability case studies