GREEN TRUST | Solutions for Sustainable Building,
Energy and Environmental Transitions

Sustainable building services are an integral part of the green building movement, focusing on creating structures that are environmentally responsible and resource-efficient throughout their life-cycle. These services include various stages of a building's life, including planning, design, construction, operation, and even demolition.

The core of these services lies in the application of sustainable construction methods, which include:

• Using renewable and recyclable materials: This contributes to reducing the carbon footprint of the construction process.
• Reducing embodied energy in building materials: Selecting materials that require less energy to produce helps minimise the overall energy consumption.
• Reducing energy consumption of the finished building: This is achieved through energy-efficient design and the integration of low-carbon technologies.
• Protecting natural habitats during and after the construction phase: Sustainable building services ensure that construction activities have minimal impact on surrounding ecosystems.

In the UK, sustainable building services are often centred on retrofit residential de-carbonisation works, which involve upgrading existing buildings to enhance their energy efficiency, reduce their carbon emissions, and improve their overall sustainability. Such services are not only beneficial to the environment but also have significant economic advantages, helping building owners save on energy costs and enhance the value of their properties. 

In sustainable construction, design serves as the blueprint for creating environmentally responsible and resource-efficient structures. Effective design strategies include:

• Efficient Space Utilisation: Optimising space usage reduces the need for excess materials and energy, which in turn minimises the environmental footprint of a building.
• User Involvement: Engaging end-users during the design process ensures the finished building not only meets their needs but also performs optimally.
• Preservation of Surrounding Environment: Sustainable design also considers the impact on the surrounding environment, aiming to preserve it as much as possible.
• Resource Conservation and Cost Efficiency: A key aspect of sustainable design is the conservation of resources and enhancement of cost efficiency. This is achieved through the use of sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems, which also contribute to the long-term durability and resilience of the building.

Design is not only about aesthetics but also about functionality and sustainability. Our experts at Green Trust are equipped with the knowledge and skills to deliver design solutions that seamlessly integrate sustainability into every aspect of a building.

The choice of materials significantly influences the sustainability of a building. Apart from traditional materials like wood and stone, many modern, more sustainable alternatives are gaining popularity.

• Bamboo: This rapidly-growing plant can be harvested within four to five years, making it a top choice for sustainable building.
• Recycled Materials: Post-consumer recycled materials such as reclaimed wood and composite frames made from wood shavings and recycled plastics are also extensively used.
• Cob: A mixture of clay-based soil, water, straw, and occasionally sand, is an ancient, still-used material for creating walls and floors.

Materials like bendable concrete and vinyl provide budget-friendly and efficient options. While concrete is praised for its longevity and thermal stability, the high carbon emissions during its production call for greener alternatives.

The use of these materials not only reduces the environmental impact but also enhances the healthiness of the living environments.

Building maintenance is crucial to the longevity and efficiency of a structure. Implementing sustainable practices in this area involves a series of strategies designed to minimise environmental impact and optimise resources. Waste management is an essential part of a building's operation and maintenance plan, involving a comprehensive audit of the type and amount of waste produced.

The use of advanced technology, such as IoT devices and smart sensors, allows for continuous monitoring and control of systems, aiding in the identification of potential areas for energy usage improvement.

Another key aspect is the focus on health and safety, ensuring the well-being of building occupants while also promoting the reuse and recycling of building components.