Science park focus could push sustainable progress
Industry news Science park focus could push sustainable progress The UK government’s life sciences sector plan (announced Wednesday 16th July) presents exciting infrastructure opportunities calling for inherently innovative and sustainable solutions. This article explores more novel approaches being explored to construct these ambitious projects in unlikely spaces with speed and sustainability in-mind. READ THE […]
A societal tipping point towards circularity?
Industry news A societal tipping point towards circularity? New research from BSI and CISL underscores consumer scepticism surrounding companies’ green ambitions. Drawing parallels with the strong backing for LCAs across the built environment – as highlighted by the Green Claims Pulse survey – consumers and professionals alike want to see circularity prioritised and have more […]
CIOB report outlines how built environment can align with UN SDGs
Industry news CIOB report outlines how built environment can align with UN SDGs The CIOB has released a new report offering guidance on how the construction sector can align its sustainability efforts with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. It includes case studies and practical steps for firms of all sizes to support global targets like […]
MPs launch inquiry into building 1.5m quality homes
Industry news MPs launch inquiry into building 1.5m quality homes A cross-party parliamentary group has launched an inquiry into how the UK can build 1.5 million homes by the end of this parliament without sacrificing design or construction standards. The group will take evidence from industry experts and aims to publish its findings in the […]
Guide reveals massive waste in built environment
Industry news Guide reveals massive waste in built environment A new guide from the Supply Chain Sustainability School, reveals the UK construction industry produces 62% of the country’s waste, with a third sent to landfill. It stresses the need for better waste tracking and circular practices, highlighting that only 7.5% of materials are reused. The […]
Enhanced carbon database revealed after government report calls for action
Industry news Enhanced carbon database revealed after government report calls for action The Built Environment Carbon Database (BECD) has received major updates, including a new interface, improved data capture aligned with RICS standards, and an expanded product library featuring the latest Inventory of Carbon and Energy. These changes follow a government-commissioned AECOM report calling for […]
AI-Driven Retrofit Planning Set to Revolutionise Real Estate Investment
Industry news AI-Driven Retrofit Planning Set to Revolutionise Real Estate Investment AI is transforming commercial real estate by enabling smarter, data-driven retrofit investment planning. With rising climate regulations and tenant demand for sustainable spaces, AI helps quantify emissions, model Net Operating Income, and assess building performance, creating clearer investment value through the “green premium.” READ […]
£60m Government-Backed Loan to Retrofit Thousands of Social Homes
Industry news £60m Government-Backed Loan to Retrofit Thousands of Social Homes Lloyds Banking Group and Peabody have secured a £60 million loan, partially guaranteed by the National Wealth Fund, to retrofit thousands of social homes in London and the Southeast. This marks the largest loan to date under the £1.3bn social housing retrofit guarantee scheme. […]
Bridging the retrofit skills gap: £8m is a start, not a Solution
Industry news Bridging the retrofit skills gap: £8m is a start, not a Solution The UK government’s £8 million Warm Homes Skills Programme (WHSP) is a welcome step towards upskilling the retrofit workforce, but it falls short compared to the £600m invested in general construction skills. Despite its importance to net zero and improving aging […]
Three years left to limit warming to 1.5C, leading scientists warn
Industry news Three years left to limit warming to 1.5C, leading scientists warn Image credit – PA Media Scientists warn the Earth may breach the 1.5°C warming limit within three years due to sustained high CO2 emissions. Rapid warming accelerates sea-level rise and extreme weather, threatening global communities. Urgent, deep emission cuts are crucial to […]
UK Climate Resilience Roadmap Launch
Industry news UK Climate Resilience Roadmap Launch The UKGBC launched its UK Climate Resilience Roadmap on 26 June 2025, presenting science-based metrics, industry targets, actionable recommendations, and policy asks. Developed collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, the roadmap outlined a shared vision to fortify homes, offices, schools, healthcare, and infrastructure ensuring climate-adaptive, equitable resilience across the built […]
A call to action: ACAN Steering Group Recruitment 2025
Industry news A call to action: ACAN Steering Group Recruitment 2025 ACAN is inviting applications for its 2025–26 Steering Group, seeking nine dedicated individuals committed to climate action within architecture. The open call encourages architects and built-environment professionals to drive systemic change. Applications close at 17:00 BST on Sunday, 13 July 2025. READ THE FULL […]
Experts withdraw criticism of Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard
Industry news Experts withdraw criticism of Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard Simon Sturgis and David Partridge have withdrawn previous criticism of the UK’s Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard, endorsing its approach of reporting whole life carbon where robust data exists. They emphasise the ongoing pilot trial covering over 200 projects with potential future embodied carbon […]
Report on Clean Heat at Point of Purchase
Industry news Report on Clean Heat at Point of Purchase Changeworks and Nesta examined the Heat in Buildings Bill 2023 proposals to link clean heat upgrades to home sales. The research found that, with the right safeguards, this innovative policy could accelerate adoption and unlock finance without negatively impacting the housing market or specific buyer […]
Protecting consumers in green heating transition
Industry news Protecting consumers in green heating transition Consumer Scotland calls for national action to protect consumers in Scotland’s green heating transition. It recently published an investigation that recommends key actions for governments, regulators and industry. READ THE FULL ARTICLE Share this article: Read more:
Nesta: How to make electricity cheaper
Industry news Nesta: How to make electricity cheaper A recent Nesta report highlights that electricity costing four times more than gas hinders efforts to cut energy bills. It argues that levy reform is key to helping the UK end its reliance on imported gas, lower electricity bills, tackle fuel poverty, reduce emissions, and manage the […]
Warmworks celebrates 10th anniversary
Industry news Warmworks celebrates 10th aniversary Warmworks, a joint venture by Changeworks, Sureserve and Energy Saving Trust, celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, marking a decade of impactful service in tackling fuel poverty for a just transition to net zero. Warmworks has experienced significant growth, and through Warmer Homes Scotland has supported nearly 50,000 households […]
Meet the UK’s Passivhaus giants
Opinion Piece Meet the UK’s Passivhaus giants Spotlight on the UK’s largest certified Passivhaus schemes & how they compare to major Passivhaus projects around the world. Discover more about the exciting UK title contenders on the horizon. READ THE FULL ARTICLE Share this article: Read more:
Scottish housing policy
Opinion Piece Scottish housing policy Hear the Trust’s Research & Policy Director share the latest updates on Scottish housing policy in our latest podcast episode. With the government’s policy consultation set to ramp up this summer, it’s a crucial time to stay informed about what’s coming and how it could impact housing across Scotland. Listen […]
Riverside Primary gets top marks in performance
Opinion Piece Riverside Primary gets top marks in performance The Scottish Futures Trust (SFT) outcomes-based approach for new schools sees councils embrace Passivhaus to help meet energy targets and secure funding. It is delivering exceptional performance in use results. Riverside Primary is one example of many. READ THE FULL ARTICLE Share this article: Read more:
Major UK housebuilder to build Passivhaus for the masses
Opinion Piece Major UK housebuilder to build Passivhaus for the masses Thanks to a bold move by one of the UK’s biggest housebuilders, the dream of owning a Passivhaus is no longer just for eco-self-builders, it’s going mainstream. These initial 700-home projects are part of a larger £1.9 billion collaboration that will bring 4,000 new […]
Launch of new UK standard to boost safety and professionalism in higher-risk buildings
Opinion Piece Launch of new UK standard to boost safety and professionalism in higher-risk buildings A new UK standard has been launched to improve safety and professionalism in higher-risk residential buildings, establishing clearer expectations for competence across key roles in design, construction, and building management. Developed in response to lessons from the Grenfell Tower tragedy, […]
New workforce data from EngineeringUK
Opinion Piece New workforce data from EngineeringUK EngineeringUK has published updated workforce data, providing a comprehensive snapshot of employment trends, skills gaps, and diversity challenges across the engineering industry. The findings show that while demand for skilled engineers remains strong, there is a pressing need to attract more young people and underrepresented groups into the […]
Government investment in UK skills training
Opinion Piece Government investment in UK skills training The UK Government has announced a £3 billion investment into national skills development, with a focus on boosting technical training, apprenticeships, and workforce readiness. This funding is expected to play a crucial role in preparing the next generation of professionals in construction, engineering, and low-carbon sectors. The […]
CIBSE’s Building for the Future fundraising campaign
Opinion Piece CIBSE’s Building for the Future fundraising campaign The Building for the Future campaign is a long-term fundraising initiative designed to support the education, training, and development of future engineers and building professionals. By investing in people and resources, the campaign seeks to address the growing demand for sustainable, high-performing buildings. It will also […]
GCCA: Circular Cities and Policy Summit 2025
Opinion Piece GCCA: Circular Cities and Policy Summit 2025 Next week the Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA) will host the Circular Cities and Policy Summit in partnership with Mexico City. The event will bring together hundreds of industry leaders, policymakers, public authorities, urban planners, developers, and other built environment practitioners to explore sustainable urban […]
Concrete is key for progress on HS2 construction
Opinion Piece Concrete is key for progress on HS2 construction Work on HS2 continues to progress at pace with concrete playing a central role. Along the 5.6km stretch into Birmingham’s city centre, construction teams are delivering a series of bridges, viaducts and retaining structures at scale and with precision, including two viaducts at Curzon Street […]
UK Green Building Council UK Climate Resilience Roadmap Launch
Opinion Piece UK Green Building Council UK Climate Resilience Roadmap Launch The UK Green Building Council will be officially launching its UK Climate Resilience Roadmap on 26 June as part of London Climate Action week. The event will bring together industry leaders, policymakers and built environment professional to explore the Roadmap’s key findings, strategic priorities […]
Carbon capture’s role in scaling net-zero concrete
Opinion Piece Carbon capture’s role in scaling net-zero concrete Carbon capture technology has the potential to play a significant role in decarbonising the cement and concrete industry. This Q&A with Jan Theulen, Group Lead on Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) at Heidelberg Materials highlights some of the requirements needed to deliver this technology at […]
BE Schools Trust expands Built Environment Education in UK schools
Opinion Piece BE Schools Trust expands Built Environment Education in UK schools The Built Environment Schools Trust expanded its “My Environment My Future” (MEMF) programme to over 300 UK schools, embedding built environment content into GCSE and A-Level Geography lessons. Read more Share this article: Read more:
McKinsey & Company
Opinion Piece McKinsey & Company Understanding what neurodivergent employees need to succeed This talk discusses how embracing neurodiversity can be a competitive advantage for organisations, highlighting the importance of inclusive practices. Read more Share this article: Read more:
UNESCO Global Education monitoring report
Opinion Piece UNESCO Global Education monitoring report Leadership in education The report examines the requirements of good leadership in education and how they vary between countries and over time. Read more Share this article: Read more:
RIBA Journal
Opinion Piece RIBA Journal Six things architects should know about artificial intelligence This article explores how AI is enhancing design speed, precision, and creativity through smarter digital tools in architecture. Read more Share this article: Read more:
Spanish pavilion demonstrates “another way of building” at Venice Architecture Biennale
Opinion Piece Spanish pavilion demonstrates “another way of building” at Venice Architecture Biennale This book provides a critical examination of sustainability in architecture, challenging conventional definitions and encouraging readers to think beyond technical solutions. The authors delve into the philosophical and cultural dimensions of sustainability, emphasizing the importance of ethical responsibility, systems thinking, and long-term […]
How BIM is revolutionising Earth Day’s sustainability goals
Opinion Piece How BIM is revolutionising Earth Day’s sustainability goals This article explores the technical intricacies of BIM’s role in advancing Earth Day’s environmental awareness and sustainability objectives, highlighting its contributions to sustainable construction practices. Read more Share this article: Read more:
Architecture – a treasure trove of lessons on sustainability
Opinion Piece Architecture – a treasure trove of lessons on sustainability This article explores how ancient architectural practices offer valuable insights into sustainable design. It highlights techniques such as passive cooling, use of local materials, and natural ventilation employed by ancient civilisations. By studying structures like Roman aqueducts and Greek temples, modern architects can learn […]
How applying Change Management can move a BIM project forward
Opinion Piece How applying Change Management can move a BIM project forward Mariel Gutierrez, a BIM consultant and Women in BIM Regional Lead in Germany, emphasises the importance of integrating Change Management principles into BIM projects. She discusses how understanding the emotional and psychological aspects of change can facilitate smoother transitions and enhance project outcomes. […]
How Shall We Live? New Settlements, New Imperatives, New Models
Opinion Piece How Shall We Live? New Settlements, New Imperatives, New Models Human Nature Places Foundation have published a report How Shall We Live?, exploring the urgent need for new types of settlements that respond to today’s environmental and social challenges. It presents a range of pioneering models and policy ideas to guide more sustainable, inclusive […]
A global low carbon ratings system for cement and concrete launched
Opinion Piece A global low carbon ratings system for cement and concrete launched The Global Cement and Concrete Association has introduced a global Low Carbon Ratings system for cement and concrete. Utilizing a clear AA to G scale, the system aims to provide more transparent information on the carbon footprint of cement and concrete. Read […]
The role of scrap in steel decarbonisation
Opinion Piece The role of scrap in steel decarbonisation The Institution of Structural Engineers, British Constructional Steelwork Association, and Climate Group have released a joint whitepaper exploring the constraints of recycling scrap in steel decarbonisation. The study offers strategies for a more sustainable construction industry, emphasizing the importance of decarbonising iron-based ‘primary’ steelmaking. Read more […]
UK Net Zero Carbon Building Standard (NZCBS) to launch by end of 2025
Opinion Piece UK Net Zero Carbon Building Standard (NZCBS) to launch by end of 2025 The final version of the NZCBS is confirmed to launch by the end of 2025, says the chair of the governance board, David Partridge – providing clear guidelines for creating buildings aligned with the UK’s 1.5° carbon and energy budgets. […]
Awaab’s law to roll out nationally from October in staged introduction
Opinion Piece Awaab’s law to roll out nationally from October in staged introduction Image credit – Simon Dawson Starting October, Awaab’s law will be introduced across England in phases, mandating social landlords to address damp and mould issues within strict timeframes. The legislation, named after Awaab Ishak, a toddler who died due to prolonged exposure […]
Government accepts all Grenfell inquiry phase 2 recommendations
Opinion Piece Government accepts all Grenfell inquiry phase 2 recommendations In a major step toward improving building safety, the UK government has agreed to implement all 58 recommendations from phase 2 of the Grenfell Tower inquiry. These reforms will target issues such as construction product testing, fire safety enforcement, and clearer responsibilities for those managing […]
Government admits 1.5 million new homes target unlikely to be met
Opinion Piece Government admits 1.5 million new homes target unlikely to be met Chancellor Rachel Reeves has acknowledged that the government’s ambitious pledge to build 1.5 million new homes over five years is not on track. Despite being a central part of their growth strategy, a combination of planning delays, local opposition, and insufficient infrastructure […]
New planning and infrastructure bill aims to accelerate UK housing approvals
Opinion Piece New planning and infrastructure bill aims to accelerate UK housing approvals The UK government has introduced a planning and infrastructure bill designed to streamline the decision-making process for housing and infrastructure developments. The bill proposes reducing delays in planning applications by cutting red tape, centralising certain planning powers, and simplifying regulatory frameworks. The […]
Two Rivers Housing secures £4.56m grant to make Gloucestershire homes warmer
Opinion Piece Two Rivers Housing secures £4.56m grant to make Gloucestershire homes warmer Two Rivers Housing has secured £4.56m from the Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund to improve energy efficiency in over 750 homes across Gloucestershire. Upgrades will include solar panels, loft insulation, and better ventilation for properties with low energy ratings. Read more Share […]
Lewisham’s Hermitage Building received retrofit makeover
Opinion Piece Lewisham’s Hermitage Building received retrofit makeover Lewisham Council announced the near completion of retrofitting works to the Hermitage, a 1940s Art Deco block in Blackheath Conservation area. This was a challenging project of 28 social housing flats, featuring heritage Crittall windows. Part-funded (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero) through the Social Housing […]
Up to 170,000 homes to get energy saving upgrades
Opinion Piece Up to 170,000 homes to get energy saving upgrades Once certified, the two schools at Dunfermline Learning Campus look set to be the UK’s largest Passivhaus building. Read the CIBSE Journal feature on the project. Read more Share this article: Read more:
RISE launches all new Supply Chain advice packs and Masterclasses, to help retrofit businesses get ready for Warm Homes Delivery
Opinion Piece RISE launches all new Supply Chain advice packs and Masterclasses, to help retrofit businesses get ready for Warm Homes Delivery RISE’s support for the supply chain continues, with new Advice Packs and a Masterclass focused on Trustmark and MCS requirements and certification. Read more Share this article: Read more:
High street health: Converting a building for healthcare uses
Opinion Piece High street health: Converting a building for healthcare uses In November, the controversial Darzi Report in its recommendations for the future of the NHS, stated that, “Too great a share [of NHS funding] is being spent in hospitals, too little in the community,” and emphasised the importance of locating healthcare facilities on the […]