In use
Designing buildings for long life and minimising operational burdens of buildings are key aspects of sustainable construction. By extending the life of buildings, greater value is obtained from the investment in the material resources used to build the building. By minimising operational impacts, the whole life performance of the building is reduced.
Design for low maintenance
Low maintenance is important in reducing operational costs and environmental impacts. It can be facilitated by use of robust forms of construction, efficient and durable painting or protection systems and easily maintained servicing and façade systems.
Design for operational efficiency
Energy consumption in buildings accounts for nearly half of all energy used in the UK. Government’s Energy White Paper has set out a target to reduce CO2 emissions by 60 per cent by 2050. 50 per cent of these savings are expected to come from greater energy efficiency
