introduction
In 2004 Sustain started to work with Wolseley (FTSE 100 company) to help develop their Sustainability Strategy. As part of these discussions the idea of building a Sustainable Building Center to showcase new sustainable construction products was developed.
challenege
The construction sector is responsible through its activities for a significant impact on environmental quality. For example, around 50% of UK greenhouse gases are caused by the construction, operation and maintenance of buildings. Wolseley as a distribution company is at the heart of this industry and can play a significant role in reducing the impact of the construction sector whilst still maintaining growth.
solution
Sustain were appointed as sustainability consultants for the Sustainable Building Center project. As part of this, we project managed the feasibility of the development and looked into three main areas for consideration. These included:
- Design of the building - including cost and environmental credentials.
- Ascertaining the level of interest and support from the manufacturers of sustainable construction products.
- Identifying the sustainability credentials of potential products.
outcome
The Sustainable Building Center achieved approval by the Wolseley Plc board in June 2006 was opened as the UK's first commercial showcase for sustainable building products and construction methods in April 2008. The building features 170 types of products including photovoltaics, micro-wind, Sedum roofs, natural lighting, natural insulation, rainwater harvesting, heat pumps, biomass, water saving devices and sustainable urban drainage. For more information on the Sustainable Building Center, which is located in Leamington Spa, Worcester, please click here
" Sustain has always demonstrated an impressive depth of understanding of the responsible environmental, economic and social development facets that are essential to our business and operating practices. Sustain's contribution to the SBC project provided the firm foundations on which the project is now becoming a reality in such a spectacular way."
Tim Pollard, Wolseley Sustainable Building Center
