Sustainability


Sustainability

We care about the environment

The construction industry, by its very nature, is a big user of natural resources, however with growing concerns over climate change and the finite nature of these resources, there is increasing pressure on construction firms to reduce their environmental impact.

Revisions to the building regulations are changing the boundaries for the minimum expected for a construction today.  Advances in technology are also offering new possibilities in terms of embodied energy use and building energy needs.  While there are challenges involved in adopting sustainable construction methods, there are also great benefits too that we always aim to use here at Ashville.

What is sustainable construction?

The goals of sustainable construction are to reduce the industry’s impact on the environment. Sustainable construction methods include:

  • using renewable and recyclable materials
  • reducing the embodied energy in building materials
  • reducing the energy consumption of the finished building
  • reducing on-site waste
  • protecting the natural habitats during and after the construction phase.

Sustainable Construction

The challenges of sustainable construction

Adopting sustainable construction methods is not an overnight process.  The clients’ attitudes and available budget will be the most significant constraint or enabling factor.  The selection of architects for the project will drive the work of all of the subsequent trades on the project.  The Continuous Professional Development required by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) is a driving force improving the architectural standards for the industry.  Your Architect should be familiar with the latest thinking on the following:

  • net zero operational carbon
  • net zero embodied carbon
  • sustainable water cycle
  • sustainable connectivity and transport
  • sustainable land use and biodiversity
  • good health and wellbeing
  • sustainable communities and social value
  • sustainable life cycle cost.

There will always be pressure on contractors to reduce costs where possible, but there are still concerns that sustainable construction methods will cost an organisation more.