Sustainability

Sustainability lies at the heart of design and construction.  A sustainable approach will bring full and lasting environmental, social and economic benefits.

• Sustainability lies at the heart of design and construction. A sustainable approach will bring full and lasting environmental, social and economic benefits
• The overarching government and industry Strategy for Sustainable Construction provides the framework for future construction projects
• Each project will develop a specific Sustainability Action Plan which will address environmental, social and economic aspects and aim to exceed the highest levels within relevant standards and include all aspects of the supply chain
• Targets, including the business case, will be set within all contracts and performance will be monitored and appraised regularly
• Projects will incorporate best practice approaches to resource use, waste minimisation, low-carbon performance, employment, training and community engagement
• Development plans will seek to enhance, create and protect the local natural environment
• Projects will actively aim to enhance the vitality and viability of local communities

The SFfC Sustainable Construction Task Group meets under the chairmanship of Robert Pearce.  An extensive action plan is being developed by the following sub groups:

• Carbon
• Water
• Responsible Sourcing
• Waste
• Biodiversity

2012 targets

By 2012, a 50% reduction of construction, demolition and excavation waste to landfill compared to 2005.

By 2012, a 15% reduction in carbon emissions from construction processes and associated transport compared to 2008 levels.

25% of products used in construction projects to be from schemes recognised for responsible sourcing.

Water usage in the manufacturing and construction phase reduced by 20% compared to 2008 usage

All construction projects over £1m to have biodiversity surveys carried out and necessary actions instigated