Q&A with Brogan MacDonald – Head of Sustainability, Building Structures at Ramboll
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Why is it important that the UK’s property, planning, and sustainability sectors come together at FOOTPRINT+?
We saw significant progress for the built environment at COP28 this year, with the UK committing to the Buildings Breakthrough—a global initiative advocating for near-zero emissions and climate-resilient buildings to be the new norm by 2030. The realisation of this goal requires collective climate action across the entire supply chain, from investors right down to the steel mills. FOOTPRINT+ provides an excellent platform for professionals in property, construction, and sustainability to unite, exchange knowledge, and develop relationships towards co-creating a sustainable future.
What did you hear about/experience at our last year’s event that has made you want to come back?
I had an incredible time at last year's event, featuring a diverse and engaging program that necessitated some tough choices between stages! It also served as an brilliant educational platform to learn about the latest industry guidance and emerging standards, enabling me to provide feedback to my colleagues and prepare my clients and design teams ahead of formal launches.
When you attend FOOTPRINT+ in May 2024, what will you be sharing with conference delegates, policymakers, your partners, and your industry peers?
We aim to shift our paradigm of standard industry practices of ‘doing less harm’ to one where we actively contribute to ‘doing more good’, embracing a restorative and regenerative approach to design. The industry needs a radical shift beyond carbon, and Ramboll is excited to host a ThinkTank workshop to visualise what that transformative approach could look like.
What are you looking to get out of the FOOTPRINT+ event?
With significant changes expected in 2024, from local planning policies to national standards prioritising retention and reducing embodied carbon, I am eager to see more case studies and practical tools that we can use as exemplar approaches to aid implementation on our projects. Additionally, reconnecting with industry friends is always a pleasure!