Sustainability

Question 1

How are you sustainable at work?

Answer 1

I have a hybrid working approach, reducing my carbon footprint when working from home as there is no commute. When carrying out dual site visits, I car share.

Question 2

Please tell me more about the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard

Answer 2

Min. Band E, since 1/4/2020 cannot continue to let under band E unless valid exemption. Never required to spend more than £3,500k. You do not need to spend up to £3,500 if your property can be improved to EPC E for less. If you can improve your property to E for less than the cap, you will have met your obligation. If it would cost more than £3,500 to improve your property to E, you should install all recommended measures that can be installed within that amount, then register an exemption.

Question 3

What is the most commonly used definition of sustainable development?

Answer 3

Bruntland report - sustainable development is development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Question 4

What did the UK agree to as part of the Kyoto protocol?

Answer 4

12.5% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions

Question 5

What is the aim of the Paris Agreement?

Answer 5

To hold increase in global average temperatures to 2c below pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit warming to 1.5c

Question 6

What is the key target of the Climate Change Act?

Answer 6

Originally to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 80% of 1990 levels by 2050, but now the commitment is to be ‘carbon neutral’ by 2050

Question 7

What is the current UK target by 2050?

Answer 7

Carbon neutral

Question 8

When is an EPC required?

Answer 8

When a building is built, sold or rented

Question 9

When must you display an EPC?

Answer 9

Commercial premises >500 sq m frequently visited by the public

Question 10

How long is an EPC valid for?

Answer 10

10 years

Question 11

What are the implications of MEES?

Answer 11

Can’t grant new lease/renewal lease of F&G rated property by 2018 or have existing leases of F&G rated property by 2023

Question 12

What does BREEAM stand for?

Answer 12

Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method

Question 13

Should valuers reflect sustainability characteristics in valuations?

Answer 13

Yes - to extent that informed and well-advised purchaser would account for them