UK-GBC launches building performance research project

The UK Green Building Council is launching a new research project examining the way industry currently designs, constructs and operates non-domestic buildings.

Examining industry approaches, tools and behaviours, the group will focus on how to maximise building performance, not just in energy terms, but also other aspects of performance that impact both the building user and the wider environment.

The research team will work with UK-GBC members to explore what companies are already doing to address the issue of building performance, seek out best practice, and to identify gaps and barriers that need to be overcome across the whole industry.

The Delivering Building Performance project is sponsored by BuroHappold, Saint-Gobain and Tarmac Group.

Julie Hirigoyen, CEO of the UK-GBC said: “I am delighted that UK-GBC members are supporting this important piece of work. Huge cost, carbon and productivity benefits can be gained through a closer focus on the performance of buildings as we design, construct and operate them. Following the COP21 deal, this is just one of the ways in which the UK industry is showing its leadership and ambition.”

Duncan Price, director, sustainability at BuroHappold, said: “Leading clients are looking beyond compliance to realising the multiple benefits of building performance including improved productivity, lower running costs and reduced environmental impact. This collaborative research will guide us all in how to achieve those benefits.”

Mark Allen, technical director, Saint-Gobain UK, said: “We occupy buildings for a considerable portion of time, which contributes significantly towards the climate change agenda and the wider health, wellbeing and productivity in buildings. Following the sponsorship of COP21, our work with the task group further demonstrates our commitment to a sustainable habitat for future generations. If we are to deliver a truly sustainable future, the industry must collaborate and share expertise to find robust solutions that enhance our habitat and our daily lives.”

Emma Hines, sustainable construction manager, Tarmac, said: “We support the aims and ambitions of the task group as it seeks to develop a deeper understanding of how better building performance can be delivered. The research provides an opportunity to explore the actions needed to address the performance gap, and highlights the importance of whole life thinking in designing sustainability into the envelope of a structure to deliver long term benefits.”