UK event highlights state-of-the art methods to reduce carbon emissions

FOOTPRINT+, the UK property event for a zero carbon future, took place from 6th-8th June at an idyllic location on Brighton & Hove seafront, attracting representatives from every sector of the property industry to discuss state-of-the art methods to reduce carbon emissions and build the relationships necessary to help put them into practice. Many of our members were involved speaking on panel discussions and as conference sponsors, including Arup, Allford Hall Monaghan Morris (AHHM), WilkinsonEyre and Feilden Clegg Bradley. 

Taking time away from the research desk to join the delegates on the last day, we attended a session sponsored by WilkinsonEyre, investigating the findings of London Property Association report ‘Retrofit First, Retrofit Only’.  The report illustrates the spectrum of recent Net Zero Carbon commercial projects undertaken to date across Westminster and the City of London. While considering various case studies, the panel emphasised that sustainability benefits are often hidden, and must be articulated fully to agents, while owner-occupier engagement is necessary to make sure buildings are managed efficiently. They highlighted the financial incentive to retrofit when appropriate, with AHHM project 1 Finsbury Square mentioned as an example of retrofitting that saved money for the developer, allowing them to spread risk across their portfolio and spend more elsewhere. 

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Credit: Tenderstream/Built Environment Media