Edenica: a case study for the circular economy in the built environment

The Edenica project is more than just another modern looking development in the heart of London - it could represent the future of construction in the built environment. At first…

What are material passports (and how do they work)?

Just as our passports track the journeys we make across the world, material passports can keep a record of how materials are created, utilised and recycled. There’s no avoiding the…

The architect’s guide to generative design

Generative design is transforming the way architects and built environment professionals approach the design phase of construction projects. Here's how. From building information modelling (BIM) to augmented reality and the…

Why is the traffic in my city so bad?

It’s not just bad weather, car accidents and roadworks – there’s a bigger reason why the traffic in your city is getting worse. For most people, traffic is simply a…

What does the UK general election mean for the built environment?

The 2024 General Election in the UK brings a variety of proposals from major political parties, each with different visions for the country's future. But what do they mean for…

Is your business ready for architecture’s digital transformation?

Digital transformation isn’t just another marketing buzzword for the architectural industry – it’s set to revolutionise the profession in the coming years. Digital transformation is a strategic priority for businesses…

Sustainability and climate action in the built environment: a UCEM panel

Several members of staff at UCEM took part in a panel discussing the institution’s role in sustainable education and governance. Here’s what they had to say. On Tuesday 23 April,…

What on earth are sponge cities?

The concept of ‘sponginess’ has emerged in the urban planning discourse in recent years, but what does it actually mean? As the 2050 target of achieving net zero approaches, the…

10 heat pump myths, debunked

Here are some of the most common myths and misconceptions about heat pumps that have held back its adoption in the UK. Heat pumps are widely considered to be one…

A guide to retrofitting (and how it could help us reach net zero)

Retrofitting could be the answer to how the built environment addresses its role in the climate crisis whilst satisfying demand for new buildings and houses. The UK has a problem…

Are heat pumps just hot air?

Amid fierce debate in the UK, are heat pumps really the future of sustainable energy, heating and retrofitting in the built environment? If we are to achieve the 2050 net…

16 sustainable and cost-effective building materials

These 16 innovative and eco-friendly materials can help the construction industry address its role in the climate crisis. The built environment is one of the single most pollutive sectors in…