Circular cities 101: how do they work?

Applying the circular methodology to our urban planning and infrastructure could be an effective way to reduce the built environment's contribution to the climate crisis. Despite accounting for less than…

What are mixed-use developments (and are they the future of construction)?

Mixed-use environments could provide the solution to several of the biggest challenges facing the built environment. Here’s how. For several years, the UK has been in the middle of what…

What is the green skills gap (and why does it matter)?

The built environment is in dire need of sustainability talent. Here are 10 skills that can help close the growing green talent gap. The UK is in a race to…

What is lean construction (and why should you adopt it)?

When applied to the construction industry, the lean methodology can help businesses reduce waste while maximising cost and resource efficiency. The construction industry is facing a conundrum. As a consumer…

All buildings great and small: the spectacular rise of tiny homes

What are tiny homes, and why is this radical approach to homeowning starting to pick up momentum and popularity in the UK? The UK is currently experiencing a housing crisis,…

What is DfMA (and what does it mean for construction)?

Adopting the Design for Manufacture and Assembly approach can help construction firms maximise efficiency and ensure the future of the built environment is sustainable. Construction is evolving. From off-site construction and…

How can we deal with urban sprawl?

Urban sprawl is significantly impacting society, the economy and the environment. Here’s why (and how) urban planners should address it. The human race is growing exponentially. In November 2022, the…

Smart buildings, explained – here’s what they mean for the built environment

Smart buildings could represent the intelligent, connected and sustainable future of the built environment. The built environment is no stranger to digital transformation. Just as technology is revolutionising processes across industries like…

What are digital twins (and how do they work)?

How are digital twins helping the built environment adapt to climate change and make sustainable development a reality? Buildings are responsible for 40% of global energy consumption, and the built…

Climate change denial: 6 common myths, debunked

What are the biggest climate change denial myths, where do they come from, and how do they affect the built environment? In 2020, the United Nations (UN) declared a climate…

What is carbon offsetting (and is it just another form of greenwashing)?

Is carbon offsetting actually having a positive impact on the environment, or is it just another way businesses avoid taking real action? Sustainability is in a state of transition. As…

A COP29 post-mortem: why there are reasons for optimism

While much of the reaction to COP29 has been of frustration at the slow rate of change, December’s conference wasn’t without cause for measured optimism. The word ‘COP’ has come…