Sustainability is achieved in many places at TRUMPF. But that is only possible with many dedicated employees. Three of them tell their story. CO2-neutrality with energy manager Sean Lin Sean Lin smiles contentedly as he strolls through the pro duction hall. The thing that makes him smile, is the view
The looming changes to the UK Apprenticeship Levy are causing ripples across industries. For the construction sector, which often relies on Level 7 apprenticeships to address leadership skills gaps and attract younger talent, these changes are particularly significant. “With Levy funding for new Level 7 apprenticeship starters aged 22 and
A new programme is helping offenders to build a new life – and a career in construction – once they are released from prison. Industry-approved health and safety training is being offered by PLIAS Resettlement and funded by Ealing Council. It is specifically for borough residents who are currently serving
The British Pump Manufacturers Association (BPMA) is proud to reaffirm its ongoing commitment to championing engineering excellence across the pump sector through its highly regarded and long-standing annual awards programme. The 2026 Pump Industry Awards are now open for entries, and the BPMA is calling on the industry to get
The LK Group, a ground investigation and environmental consultancy, has appointed Mark Worsfold as Associate Director within its Project Management team. Mark brings over 20 years of experience in retail and leisure development as part of wider town centre regeneration initiatives, with a strong focus on community, inclusivity, and well-being.
London has approved more than 26,000 student bedrooms since 2021, according to new research from national planning and development consultancy Lichfields. A recent surge in planning approvals during 2024 and the first quarter of 2025 is providing cause for optimism after several years of under-delivery against the capital’s purpose-built student
Hiab, a leading provider of smart and sustainable on-road load handling solutions, has signed a EUR 23.5 million three-year frame agreement to supply advanced loader cranes for offshore wind parks, extending into 2028. The agreement is expected to be booked as order intake starting from Q4 2025, split between quarters
SITECH and Collins Earthworks played host to industry visitors at a recent Fly Day event, showcasing the benefits of drone technology for site mapping and data analytics. The event, held at Collins Earthworks Ball Eye Quarry in Matlock, Derbyshire, demonstrated the advanced capabilities of the Trimble® Stratus platform, highlighting improved
Inconsistency in the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regime, even among EU countries, means that a commercial building that receives the highest rating in one country could receive a grade up to four places lower in another, according to Savills in its Impacts research programme. The international real estate advisor says
Growing fire safety industry organisation Fire Aware aims to change the culture of the built environment sector by introducing a moral code of conduct via a series of charters designed to influence how member companies behave in upholding their duty of care. The expanding industry body is leading the way
Sustainability is achieved in many places at TRUMPF. But that is only possible with many dedicated employees. Three of them tell their story. CO2-neutrality with energy manager Sean Lin Sean Lin smiles contentedly as he strolls through the pro duction hall. The thing that makes him smile, is the view high up under the hall roof: LEDs, everywhere. Over the past five years, Sean Lin and his team have converted all the lights in the production areas of TRUMPF China to LED and installed an intelligent control system. This has been his most effective measure as an energy manager to date, as artificial lighting used to account for 30 percent of the electricity bill. TRUMPF China is now saving 550,474 kWh per year – roughly equivalent to the annual electricity consumption of 250 Chinese households. Quite an achievement: Sean Lin will exceed his energy saving target of 48,000 kWh for 2023 by a almost 80 percent. His gaze wanders back to the machinery. There is still a lot to do. For 2024, he has set himself an even higher energy saving target and is now focusing on production processes and building technology to achieve greater energy efficiency. In the future, he and his team will mainly be tackling compressed air and air conditioning. The team is also working on a systematic energy saving plan for a new building. In all of this, what drives Sean Lin is transparency, as this is key to identifying significant energy users (SEUs) and energy-saving opportunities. This year, his team created a platform that displays every to the energy consumption of each department and every piece of high-power equipment. TRUMPF China is the first site to be fully powered by renewable energy. 1.5 MW of photovoltaic power was installed in TRUMPF China as early as 2021, and another 0.4 MW will be added soon. TRUMPF China will then produce 25 percent of its own electricity using photovoltaics – and if Sean Lin and his team have their way, it will be even more in the future. The machine healer Robin Veneberg Robin Veneberg proudly points to the TruLaser 3030 standing in the middle of the workshop. “Shines like new,” says the service technician happily. Appearances can be deceptive as the 2D laser cutting machine had previously been in service with a customer for eight years. Two weeks ago, it found its way back to TRUMPF. At the TRUMPF Resale Center in the Netherlands, Robin Veneberg and a total of eight employees refurbish disused machines Veneberg has been working for TRUMPF for four years, bringing disused TRUMPF machines back to life. He takes care of the entire reconditioning process, from cleaning to replacing parts that are no longer functional. As soon as a machine has been successfully reconditioned, TRUMPF sells it again through its normal sales channels. In this way, more than 2,000 disused machines have already found new owners.“I’m very pleased that my work is helping to make pro duction more climate-friendly,” says Veneberg. This is because when TRUMPF sells a used machine instead of a new one, particularly energy-intensive components such as the steel machine body no longer need to be manufactured. To put this in context: a machine like the TruLaser 3030 weighs around 12 metric tons. Depending on the process, the production of one ton of steel generates almost 1.4 tons of CO2. Just by recycling the machine body, the company can save almost 16 tons of CO2. In addition, the carbon footprint of a reconditioned machine is remarkably low compared to that of a new machine, coming in at less than 0.5 percent of the latter. The battery-recycler Max Rettenmeier The laser hums quietly as it cuts apart the electric car battery. The protective door of the laser cell slides upwards and Max Rettenmeier, Industry Manager at TRUMPF Laser Technology, looks at the battery with satisfaction. Recycling used or faulty electric car batteries using laser technology could revolutionize the battery industry, as dismantling electric car batteries is currently time-consuming and even dangerous for workers. Until now, it has not been uncommon for kilometers of coated foil to end up as waste. Rettenmeier is working on changing this. As the demand for e-batteries is huge. In Europe alone, the industry will have to recycle 570,000 metric tons of battery material every year from 2030. Powered by green electricity, electric cars produce significantly less greenhouse gas emissions. But without valuable raw materials such as cobalt and lithium, no electric car batteries. The extraction of these raw mate rials is often costly and unsustainable, an aspect currently exacerbated by the skyrocketing prices of battery materials. In addition, manufacturers must contend with long and uncertain supply chains. The valuable raw materials travel to battery factories around the world – their transport causes considerable greenhouse gas emissions. What’s more, the EU stipulates a recycling rate of up to 95 percent for certain battery materials. It therefore not only makes economic and environmental sense to recycle every gram of the raw materials in the batteries, but is also politically necessary. In order to recycle batteries on an industrial scale, Rettenmeier and his colleagues from the Laser Application Center in Ditzingen are working with customers to develop innovative laser applications. This means that car manufacturers, battery producers and recyclers can now recycle batteries from electric cars on an industrial scale for the first time. The laser systems can safely cut open the used batteries and remove the valuable raw materials from the battery foil. In doing so, Rettenmeier and his colleagues can draw on the TRUMPF´s extensive expertise in laser welding and cutting for the production of electric car batteries. TRUMPF has been working with all the leading car and battery manufacturers for years. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The looming changes to the UK Apprenticeship Levy are causing ripples across industries. For the construction sector, which often relies on Level 7 apprenticeships to address leadership skills gaps and attract younger talent, these changes are particularly significant. “With Levy funding for new Level 7 apprenticeship starters aged 22 and over ending in January 2026, construction firms need to act swiftly to capitalise on current funding opportunities before the December cut-off,” explains Steven Hurst, Director of Corporate Learning, at Arden University. Here, Steven explores the potential impact of these changes, highlights the opportunities still available and proposes practical solutions to ensure construction companies can maximise the remaining funding to future-proof their workforce. Why do level 7 apprenticeships matter in construction? Level 7 apprenticeships, equivalent to postgraduate qualifications, have become an invaluable tool for the construction sector. They fill critical skills gaps, upskill existing talent and develop leaders who are equipped to tackle the industry’s challenges. For instance, the senior leader apprenticeship has helped construction organisations to address issues such as: However, with the government’s impending restrictions on Level 7 funding, the construction industry faces a narrowing window to maximise these benefits. Funding challenges and the narrow window of opportunity From January 2026, government Levy funding for Level 7 apprenticeships will no longer be available for new starters aged 22 and over, which is likely to cause a key pain point for those wanting to formally upskill more senior staff. However, there’s a silver lining for organisations that act quickly, as businesses can still utilise the Levy funding for new level 7 learners, as long as they’re enrolled before the 31 December deadline. This urgency presents both a challenge and an opportunity. Left unchecked, skills gaps and leadership deficits may exacerbate already critical workforce shortages, but organisations that proactively plan can not only mitigate these risks but also strengthen their position for the future. To make the most of the remaining Level 7 funding, construction firms should consider these four key actions: 1. Audit skills needs and workforce requirements Conduct a thorough assessment of the current workforce to identify skills gaps and forecast future needs. For example, consider areas like leadership and digital transformation, where advanced training will be essential. Use this information to prioritise staff who are ready to enrol in Level 7 apprenticeships while funding is still available. 2. Accelerate recruitment for cohorts With the December cut-off fast approaching, ramping up recruitment efforts for apprenticeships is crucial. Partnering with education providers now can help to ensure smoother enrolment processes. 3. Focus on age-eligible candidates With the age cap for funding set to change, targeting talent before the end of the year, who will be ineligible to access funding from 2026, makes strategic sense. Prioritise candidates aged 22 and over for enrolment this year, ensuring that funding supports this group before eligibility shifts. 4. Explore Level 6 apprenticeships as alternatives For organisations where Level 7 funding may no longer be feasible from 2026 due to budget restrictions, Level 6 apprenticeships remain a valuable alternative. Equivalent to degree-level qualifications, these programmes still deliver high-quality training while addressing workforce diversity and retention goals. Addressing broader apprenticeship challenges in construction While the funding restrictions may signal a shift in apprenticeship opportunities, they also highlight the importance of future-proofing workforce development strategies. Employers committed to investing in apprenticeships can take steps such as: Proactively adopting these strategies can ensure that construction businesses maintain access to vital skills and leadership development in the years ahead. The clock is ticking for construction businesses to make the most of current Level 7 apprenticeship funding. Acting decisively over the next few months can help secure the training and leadership development necessary to address workforce challenges and prepare for future demands. “While the government’s decision to restrict funding may create some obstacles, it also presents an opportunity for organisations to demonstrate resilience and adaptability,” advises Steven. “By planning strategically and taking immediate steps to optimise remaining resources, the construction sector can continue to build the skilled and diverse workforce it needs to thrive. “Don’t wait until it’s too late. Begin your workforce audit, accelerate apprentice recruitment and explore alternative opportunities today to maximise the value of your Apprenticeship Levy funding.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A new programme is helping offenders to build a new life – and a career in construction – once they are released from prison. Industry-approved health and safety training is being offered by PLIAS Resettlement and funded by Ealing Council. It is specifically for borough residents who are currently serving a prison sentence in HMP Wormwood Scrubs. The scheme is part of the council’s commitment to invest £1million to train and support those excluded from the jobs market, with a particular focus on groups like ex-offenders who face barriers to employment. It aims to ensure that they can get a second chance and fill a useful role in society, in an industry which continues to face a notable labour shortage. Based in Park Royal, PLIAS Resettlement is a criminal justice charity that helps people with criminal records get their lives back on track. As part of the programme, PLIAS offers serving prisoners with help to prepare for the Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) card exam. This is an important step to finding a well-paid job in construction. Since starting work with Ealing Council in October 2024, more than 80 people have taken the course. Follow-up “through the gate” support is provided on release to ensure a smooth transition from in custody back into the community. Tom Chandler is the PLIAS resettlement director. He said: “We visit the prison every month. We target prisoners who are due for release within the next 3 months, as they need more timely help. We explain what we are doing and how it can benefit them. If they are interested in a career in construction, we put them forward for our training programme. We usually have 8-10 people attending per course.” The programme aims to help people to make a successful transition into the community and get them ready for work. He added: “Once people get released, we invite them to our fully equipped IT centre which they can come to as many times as they want. We want them to successfully pass their CSCS test and move into employment, so they get unlimited practice and revision materials. We know that people who are employed in jobs with prospects are less likely to re-offend. “While people are preparing for the test, we help them with writing their CV, interview techniques, and how best to disclose a criminal conviction to an employer.” After people get their CSCS card, Ealing Council’s construction skills advisor is helping them to find work on construction sites in the borough. The CSCS card is a physical card and proof that a construction worker has the required training, qualifications, and knowledge of health and safety to work on a UK construction site safely. The cost of the health and safety training, CSCS preparation and test is included in the programme. Councillor Kamaljit Nagpal, the council’s cabinet member for decent living incomes said: “Creating opportunities for people in prison is helping us reach our ambition of supporting 2,000 residents with the toughest barriers to employment. “Once they have paid their debt to society, it is vital that we offer ex-offenders the help they need to become contributing members of society. Our lives don’t always follow a straight line, and everyone should have an equal chance to find a good job. That’s why it is important that we, as a council, provide opportunities and funding to help residents overcome obstacles which would otherwise stand in the way of their route to a good, well-paid job.” Help with training and employment can be found on the council’s website. If you are interested in a career in construction, email workealing@ealing.gov.uk to learn about vacancies and training programmes. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The British Pump Manufacturers Association (BPMA) is proud to reaffirm its ongoing commitment to championing engineering excellence across the pump sector through its highly regarded and long-standing annual awards programme. The 2026 Pump Industry Awards are now open for entries, and the BPMA is calling on the industry to get involved and celebrate the innovations, individuals, and initiatives that continue to power this vital sector. Set to take place on Thursday 19th March 2026 at the prestigious Hilton at St. George’s Park, Burton upon Trent, the gala awards evening will once again provide a unique platform to recognise, reward, and promote the outstanding achievements that continue to shape the UK pump industry. With a strong heritage of acknowledging technical excellence, sustainability, innovation, and service, the Pump Industry Awards programme plays a key role in supporting professional recognition while delivering superb promotional value for all participating companies and individuals. Shortlisted entries and winners alike benefit from high-profile exposure before, during, and after the event—across trade media, online platforms, and through sector-wide engagement. Entries Now Open – Don’t Miss the Deadline If you, your team, your company, or your innovations have made a difference in the pump industry over the past 18 months, now is the time to step forward. The entry deadline is Friday 28th November 2025, and submitting a nomination is a clear statement of pride in your work and a strategic opportunity to raise your industry profile. The online entry forms are available at www.pumpindustryawards.com and are designed to make the process simple and accessible. Submissions should relate to activities and achievements within the 18-month period leading up to the deadline. Award Categories Include: Product of the Year – Sponsored by Plant & Works Engineering Project of the Year – Sponsored by World Pumps Environmental Contribution of the Year – Sponsored by SPP Pumps Manufacturer of the Year – Sponsored by WEG UK Distributor of the Year (<£3M & >£3M) – Sponsored by Calpeda & Caprari Supplier of the Year – Sponsored by Wilo Contribution to Skills & Training – Sponsored by ABB Rising Star Award – Sponsored by Innomotics Sustainable Contribution for a Better World – Sponsored by AESSEAL The BPMA is once again honoured to have the continued support of leading industry names, who understand the importance of recognising excellence across this essential sector. Additional thanks go to Brook Crompton for sponsoring the Drinks Reception, and to Apex Pumps for supporting the always-popular Survivors Breakfast. Sponsorship opportunities are still available for companies looking to align themselves with the very best in pump engineering and innovation. Wayne Rose, Director and CEO of the BPMA, commented: “Pumps and related systems underpin so many of the essential services we all rely on—from water and energy to food production and transportation. The BPMA is proud to support an awards programme that celebrates the expertise, creativity, and dedication driving this crucial sector forward. I strongly encourage all those involved in the pump industry to submit their entries and help showcase the best of our profession.” For more information on the 2026 Pump Industry Awards, including how to enter or become a sponsor, please visit www.pumpindustryawards.com or contact Event Director, Andrew Castle, on 07785 290034 or via andrew@touchwavemedia.co.uk. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The LK Group, a ground investigation and environmental consultancy, has appointed Mark Worsfold as Associate Director within its Project Management team. Mark brings over 20 years of experience in retail and leisure development as part of wider town centre regeneration initiatives, with a strong focus on community, inclusivity, and well-being. He has also played a pivotal role in leading the private sector response to Grenfell by developing robust cladding systems and conducting rigorous testing for high-rise residential buildings. His expertise extends to ensuring compliance with new legislation under the Building Safety Act, including submitting Building Safety Cases, Mandatory Occurrence Reporting procedures, and Resident Engagement Strategies to the Building Safety Regulator, as well as developing complementary Golden Thread management systems. In his new role, Mark will play a vital role in delivering project management for key town centre regeneration projects across Bury, Rugby, Tameside, St Helens and other Councils across the northwest, while also supporting The LK Group’s wider business development efforts. Conor Leyden, Managing Director at The LK Group, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Mark to our expanding team. His extensive industry expertise is a great fit as we continue to grow our project management offering and take on more ambitious regeneration projects. His appointment supports our wider strategic growth plans, and he will play a key role in strengthening delivery and helping us to scale our impact across major schemes.” Mark Worsfold said: “The LK Group already has a deserved strong reputation for excellence in the industry. I look forward to further enhancing the project management capabilities across the team and to support the successful delivery of complex regeneration projects for our clients. The team already has some fantastic projects lined up that I can’t wait to get started on, including supporting regeneration schemes that will make a real positive difference at the heart of communities and shape the landscape for their future.” Earlier this year, The LK Group bolstered its senior team with several key hires including Director Nick Riding, Associate Director for Flood Risk and Drainage Matthew Bell, Remediation Manager Will Fitzpatrick, and Andy Kuehl, who joined as Director of LK Structures, a dedicated structural survey solution. This latest appointment sees The LK Group grow its team to more than 45 experts operating across the UK. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
London has approved more than 26,000 student bedrooms since 2021, according to new research from national planning and development consultancy Lichfields. A recent surge in planning approvals during 2024 and the first quarter of 2025 is providing cause for optimism after several years of under-delivery against the capital’s purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) targets. Under the Greater London Authority’s methodology, the PBSA rooms in the pipeline are equivalent in housing need terms to more than 10,500 conventional homes. While not directly an affordable housing total, Lichfields’ analysis shows a growing trend of new PBSA applications incorporating affordable housing provision. With student numbers rising, a constrained rental market and permissions for conventional housing at a ten-year low, PBSA has emerged as one of the few economically viable types of residential development currently coming forward. This growth offers an opportunity to ease pressure on the private rented sector and support London’s wider housing needs. Lichfields’ research also finds that the Greater London Authority’s broad policy support for PBSA has filtered down to borough level, with a flexible approach proving key to enabling schemes to progress. Although there is no set design-led planning framework for PBSA, most schemes follow similar patterns for space, amenity and layout, while preferred locations vary between developers and operators. This market-led approach is helping PBSA remain attractive to investors and providers. Jonathan Hoban, Associate Director in Lichfields’ London office, said: “Purpose-built student accommodation plays a critical role in meeting housing need and supporting London’s global education offer. The research identifies a healthy pipeline of schemes with approval which should translate into deliveries. “Against the poor backdrop for conventional housing in London, the provision of PBSA not only ensures London remains a leading destination for higher education but it could help deliver more affordable homes. It could be a win-win situation for London.” The study concludes that maintaining the current momentum will require the next London Plan, due in 2027, to continue fostering this flexible approach and advocating for new PBSA. Jonathan Hoban added: “This is a real opportunity to bring forward the delivery of much-needed homes across the capital. By maintaining a flexible approach in the next London Plan and continuing to champion well-designed PBSA, we can ensure more schemes continue to come forward, helping to meet both student demand and the wider housing needs of London.” The full report is available at: https://lichfields.uk/content/insights/unlocking-london-s-student-housing-potential Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Hiab, a leading provider of smart and sustainable on-road load handling solutions, has signed a EUR 23.5 million three-year frame agreement to supply advanced loader cranes for offshore wind parks, extending into 2028. The agreement is expected to be booked as order intake starting from Q4 2025, split between quarters until Q3 of 2028. The deliveries of the first cranes are planned to commence in early 2026 and last until early 2029, depending on the completion of the customer’s projects. The agreement is a continuation of a longstanding relationship and follows an existing agreement. The agreement consists of the supply of HIAB SWP cranes. This crane model is custom-designed for the service operations of offshore wind turbines and excels even in difficult conditions. The cranes will be strategically placed within the nacelles of wind turbines to facilitate essential maintenance, service, and component supply, ensuring continuous operation of the wind farms. “This landmark agreement underscores Hiab’s commitment to creating pioneering solutions that power the future of sustainable energy. They are specifically engineered for unmatched performance in the toughest offshore environments, empowering our customers to maintain critical infrastructure and accelerate the global transition to renewable power with confidence,” said Alexander Gelis, Vice President, Sales & Product Management at Hiab. The wind parks currently benefiting from this partnership are located across the UK, Taiwan, and the United States, with further expansion plans for Germany and Denmark. This collaboration underscores Hiab’s commitment to supporting the global renewable energy sector with reliable and efficient lifting solutions. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
SITECH and Collins Earthworks played host to industry visitors at a recent Fly Day event, showcasing the benefits of drone technology for site mapping and data analytics. The event, held at Collins Earthworks Ball Eye Quarry in Matlock, Derbyshire, demonstrated the advanced capabilities of the Trimble® Stratus platform, highlighting improved project accuracy, greater productivity and integration of workflows as some of the ways customers can benefit from the cloud-based software system. Attendees were given a variety of demonstrations and talks including a discussion on drone flight regulations by the Drone Pilot Academy and a live-flight demonstration by SITECH partners Propeller, who collected flight data for an interactive classroom demonstration of Trimble® Stratus platform. Danielle Barker, Strategic Account Manager at SITECH UK & Ireland said: “As industries across the country continue to evolve it is vital that companies look to utilise technology to enhance their operations and combat challenges. The Fly Day event was about demonstrating the depth of information available to customers through the partnership between Propeller and SITECH. “We were fortunate to partner with Collins Earthworks Ltd which allowed us to perform a drone site survey of Ball Eye Quarry. This gave visitors a real insight into the features of Trimble® Stratus, such as volume calculations, drainage channel monitoring and a visual timeline of site conditions for enhancing monitoring. The SITECH Fly Day is the first of these events this year, with more to be confirmed and delegates from across the construction, civil engineering, aggregates and technology industries are encouraged to attend to discover how Trimble® Stratus, powered by Propeller, can empower teams and minimise information bottlenecks on-site. Cyrus Wania, Director at EM3 Solutions, commented on the event: “The Fly Day was a great opportunity not only to speak to the experts and find out more about how we can enhance our usage of Trimble® and drone technology, but to network with other professionals from across the industry. “We really valued the opportunity to have a tour of the Ball Eye Quarry and then see how accurately the drone flight processed with Trimble® Stratus, was able to present the information that operators would need to maintain site safety and management. “The event proved invaluable for both newcomers and existing users of technology in construction. Attendees had the opportunity to engage directly with SITECH experts, posing questions and gaining insights. I highly recommend that individuals seeking to enhance their operations with advanced construction technology and connect with industry colleagues attend the upcoming Fly Day events as they offer genuine industry insight and valuable technical knowledge.” SITECH continues to bolster their commitment to enhancing skills and knowledge across the construction industry. Find out more here: https://www.sitechukandireland.com/en-gb Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Inconsistency in the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) regime, even among EU countries, means that a commercial building that receives the highest rating in one country could receive a grade up to four places lower in another, according to Savills in its Impacts research programme. The international real estate advisor says that the lack of standardisation in energy labelling can even vary within countries. In Belgium, the same energy performance (measured in kWh/m²/year) would receive a ‘C’ rating in Flanders but a ‘D’ or ‘F’ in Brussels, owing to stricter rating thresholds in the Brussels-Capital Region. Standards for primary energy consumption in ‘A’-rated offices across Europe also vary, resulting in buildings that would receive a grade of ‘A’ in some countries only receiving a ‘D’ or ‘E’ in others. Savills says that while the EU is implementing a revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD) which should bring countries within its jurisdiction more into line, there are likely to still be discrepancies within individual countries as local political sensitivities, technical challenges, climate risks and the nature of existing building stock mean that sustainability standards vary considerably from one city to another. Legacy EU country/UK energy label comparison, by country: Chris Cummings, Director, Savills Earth, comments: “The lack of standardisation in energy labelling within the EU, and the UK which also uses EPC as its main measure of building performance, illustrates a wider global problem for cross-border investors and tenants in understanding what constitutes a ‘good’ building: if even within the same bloc there’s disparities, how can they compare across even wider geographies such as APAC or the US? Ideally, investors and occupiers should look beyond the headline EPC grade to examine a building’s actual energy data to get a true picture of its relative performance. If they don’t, they run the risk of excluding buildings which have received a lower rating in countries which exert a ‘tougher’ EPC regime, as they do not fulfil their sustainability objectives, only to go on to take a building in another country which has a higher grade, but ultimately is a poorer performer.” Sarah Brooks, Associate Director, Savills World Research, says: “City-level differences in sustainability standards can again present distinct challenges and opportunities for occupiers and investors. They must account for differences in local policy, market expectations and available incentives in their strategies. Gaining a competitive edge often means exceeding national requirements as well as aligning with city-level expectations and long-term local sustainability plans. Nuanced due diligence is vital.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Growing fire safety industry organisation Fire Aware aims to change the culture of the built environment sector by introducing a moral code of conduct via a series of charters designed to influence how member companies behave in upholding their duty of care. The expanding industry body is leading the way by focusing on the moral responsibility of all those working in the fire safety supply chain including designers, developers, asset owners, managers and other stakeholders. Gavin Skelly, CEO of Fire Aware, said: “We understand the need for competence. But when dealing with an industry that the public relies on to keep them safe, there has to be more. There has to be a commitment to safety. As with a number of other sectors and professions, the fire sector has a wide array of duty holders, but they all share one common requirement, which is to understand they are there primarily to keep the public safe. “We are appealing to the fire safety industry and those with responsibility for making decisions to think about their moral duty from the outset of any project. We know from the feedback we receive from our members that the industry is keen to make this work. We believe in going above and beyond legislation and minimum standards and test regimes. Fire Aware embraces safety through a series of charters according to the type of business of its members. These include main contractors, property developers, building management, designers, local councils, specialist contractors and sub-contractors. It also recognises those outside of the fire sector, who, while holding a duty of care are not specifically part of the fire sector. Gavin Skelly added: “Any environment the public use will hold a duty of care for their fire safety. Fire Aware looks to recognise and identify those who do this with the interests of their end users as a priority. “Members of the Fire Aware community are taking a stand. They have told us they care and want to commit to best practice. Working together, members can contribute to the wider cause of safety in the interests of those people using inhabiting the buildings and spaces we create.” Fire Aware is a recognised membership body serving the built environment and related sectors with a common aim to work and trade responsibly to all best practice standards in the interests of the safety of the general public. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals