Sustainability Flashcards
(34 cards)
What is sustainability?
Meeting the needs of today without compromising the needs of the future
This definition emphasizes the balance between current resource use and future resource availability.
What are sustainable materials?
Materials that are environmentally friendly and can be maintained without depleting resources
Examples include recycled materials, sustainably sourced timber, and low-impact manufacturing processes.
How do you advise on sustainability within your role?
Reviewing different sustainable materials and providing costs for BREEAM schedules
This involves assessing materials and their costs to align with sustainability standards.
What sustainability legislation is there?
Climate Change Act 2008, Environment Act 2021
These acts provide a framework for reducing carbon emissions and protecting the environment.
What does Part L set out?
Split into 4 parts: new dwellings, existing dwellings, new other buildings, existing other buildings
It focuses on energy performance requirements and conservation of fuel and power.
What is BREEAM?
Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method
BREEAM is a leading sustainability assessment method for master planning projects, infrastructure, and buildings.
Can you list the different BREEAM ranks?
≥ 85 – Outstanding
≥ 70 – Excellent
≥ 55 – Very Good
≥ 45 – Good
≥ 30 – Pass
< 30 – Unclassified
These ranks indicate the level of sustainability achieved in a project.
What are some of the elements BREEAM assesses?
Transport
Energy
Management
Waste
Materials
These elements are crucial for determining the environmental impact of a building.
How did you achieve BREEAM in one of your projects?
In my Mayfair fit out project, I priced provision for cycling facilities which falls into the transport element
This included provisions for shower/wash facilities, lockers, and cycling storage, promoting sustainable travel.
What are the benefits of BREEAM?
More sustainable buildings – reduces running costs
Helps landlords to market buildings
Provides guidance on sustainability
BREEAM can enhance building value and operational efficiency.
What are the disadvantages of BREEAM?
Can be a costly process to employ a sustainability consultant and incorporate capital costs
Complex accreditation system
These factors can deter some projects from pursuing BREEAM certification.
What is WELL?
Sustainability accreditation which focuses on well-being
WELL emphasizes the health and wellness of building occupants.
Can you list the different WELL ranks?
Bronze
Silver
Gold
Platinum
These ranks reflect the level of health and wellness standards achieved.
How do WELL and BREEAM differ?
BREEAM credits the building and its properties whereas WELL credits the operational elements of the building
This distinction highlights the different focuses of each accreditation.
Do you know of any other sustainability accreditations?
SKA
SKA is focused on fit-out based sustainability assessments.
What is SKA?
Fit out based sustainability assessment
SKA evaluates the sustainability of interior fit-out projects.
What are the rankings under SKA?
Bronze
Silver
Gold
These rankings indicate the level of sustainability achieved in fit-out projects.
What is the build-up for green roofs?
Waterproof membrane
Drainage system
Growing medium
These components are essential for the functionality and sustainability of green roofs.
What is the difference between intensive and extensive green roofs?
Intensive requires an irrigation system
Intensive green roofs are designed for more plant diversity and require more maintenance.
How do PV panels work?
Converting sunlight into electricity using the photovoltaic effect
PV panels can also store energy in a battery powered generator.
What does Building Regulations Part L set out?
4 sections - existing/new, dwellings/non-dwellings
Sets energy performance requirements rather than specifying particular devices / materials
What changes have the 2024 JCT Suite of Contracts made to sustainability clauses?
Sustainability is now integrated into the main body of the contract rather than as a supplement provisions (8)
What were the cost implications of retaining the RAF over replacement?
Storage, cleaning and recertifying for warranties
What were some of the credits you were targeting on your Mayfair Fit-Out Project?
TRA03 - Cycling provision
