Sustainability - SOS Flashcards
(19 cards)
What are the three pillars of sustainability?
Social, economic, and environmental
Why are three pillars of sustainability important in construction projects?
-Cost-effective and profitable (economic), -Socially beneficial (e.g., local employment, community impact)
-Environmentally responsible (e.g., reducing carbon emissions, energy efficiency)
What is BREEAM?
-Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method
-Sustainability assessment method for buildings.
How does BREEAM support sustainable construction?
-Evaluates a building’s environmental performance
-Assesses energy, water, materials, and health and wellbeing
-High BREEAM rating demonstrates a commitment to sustainable design and construction practices
Example of BREEAM criteria?
What are EPC calculations
-Energy Performance Certificate
-Calculations measure the predicted and actual energy performance of a building
What does EPC measure?
They provide a rating from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), helping stakeholders understand the building’s energy use and carbon emissions, and identify areas for improvement.
How have you contributed to tracking sustainability performance on a project?
- I have contributed by reviewing and analysing monthly KPI reports that track the use of local labour and contractors, which supports the social and economic pillars of sustainability
-This data helps ensure that the project benefits the local community and economy.
Can you give an example of how you’ve considered environmental sustainability in a project?
-PV Panels - Colmore Gate
-This contributed to reducing the building’s reliance on non-renewable energy sources -Improved its environmental performance, aligning with the environmental pillar of sustainability.
How have you applied your understanding of EPCs in your role?
-I’ve reviewed EPC calculations during the design and post-construction phases to ensure the building meets energy efficiency targets.
-Liaising with design teams to incorporate energy-saving measures and verifying that the actual performance aligns with the predicted outcomes.
What is WELL?
Evaluates on human health and wellbeing in buildings, assessing factors like air, water, nourishment, light, and comfort.
Example of WELL criteria?
What is NABERS?
-National Australian Built Environment Rating System
-Measures the operational energy efficiency of buildings, particularly focusing on actual performance rather than design intent
Example of NABERS criteria?
What is embodied carbon ?
Embodied carbon refers to the total greenhouse gas emissions generated during the extraction, manufacture, transportation, and installation of building materials.
Whys is embodied carbon important in construction?
It is important because it contributes significantly to a building’s overall carbon footprint, especially in the early stages of construction, and reducing it is key to achieving net-zero goals.
How does LLC support sustainability?
It supports sustainability by helping clients choose options that may have higher upfront costs but lower long-term environmental and financial impacts.
How have you applied your knowledge of sustainability accreditations in a project
-Colmore Gate - sustainability workshops
-Pricing implications of design decisions
-RAF