Governments, businesses and consumers across the globe are waking up to the realities of climate change and the importance this issue has for the future of how we live, work and play. Whether your interests are environmental, commercial, social or purely personal all of us need to be aware of the changes that we can make to contribute to a low carbon built environment.
RICS members see their role very much at the heart of this issue as sustainability is at the heart of all the disciplines practiced by Chartered Surveyors. Their skills span such a diverse range of activities and sectors that they can very easily provide practical advice and information on the key issues we must tackle if we are to deliver a low carbon built environment that is truly sustainable across all areas of our lives.
There is scarcely any aspect of human activity involving the natural and built environment where Chartered Surveyors do not have an important role. Wherever you go a Chartered Surveyor has been before you and it is because of this that our members are able to view our environments in a holistic manner and provide practical recommendations which will have beneficial impacts.
The business of shaping our environment carries with it responsibility. RICS, together with other international organisations, is committed to using members’ skills and expertise to raise awareness of the benefits of using sustainable energy sources and energy efficiency in the built and natural environment. We are passionate about providing solutions and helping clients and consumers understand the environmental impacts experienced throughout the land and property lifecycle.
Joining the European Commission in its challenge to encourage consumers, business, industry and governments to opt for energy efficiency through its Sustainable Energy Europe Campaign is just one of the ways in which we are participating in this global debate. Through research, working groups and policy formulation, RICS is increasingly becoming the primary worldwide professional institution to turn to on this issue.
"The need and desire for sustainable buildings has become increasingly evident over recent years. Successful sustainable projects are those where the teams involved have gone beyond mere rhetoric and demonstrated how thoughtful design and operation have been used to achieve an appropriate balance of the social, environmental and economic impacts of the project." – Jim Ure, RICS Awards judge and Carbon trust adviser
Low carbon built environment - killer facts
Reducing energy use in buildings
Sustainable Energy Europe Campaign
