Introduction

Think about the process - start 'Building-In Sustainability'...

	Analyse requirements
	New build or refurbishment
	Site location analysis Climate / orientation - transport links - brownfield site
	Important features - landscape, archaeology, historic buildings, biodiversity, flood plain, character of the area
	Consult local community/participation
	Specify building - design quality, sustainable development principles
	Specify components / materials - energy / waste / recycability, calculate environmental performance

Key Decisions

At the start of any development process there are a number of key decisions which need to be made. Moving towards greater sustainability means thinking about impacts at the beginning of the process.

• Can an existing building be used and refurbished?
• If a new building is required can a brownfield site be developed?
• Choosing a site location and the positioning of development on the site has important repercussions.
• Is the site near existing public transport links?
• Can the development be orientated to maximise passive solar gain, and to retain important landscape, archaeological and historic building features?
• The character of the local area should be taken into account when designing the building.
• Consultation with the local community is vital.
• Natural features and constraints need careful consideration, especially proximity of flood plains and local biodiversity.
• The careful selection of materials and techniques of construction can avoid waste, pollution and will conserve energy.

These are a few issues which significantly affect the sustainability or otherwise of the development.

The above is now part of Government advice and guidance. All local authorities and Government agencies are required to take this into account when considering development proposals.

This web site deals with the development process in more detail, offering rules of thumb, advice and case studies to illustrate the key points.

The Development Process: '10 commandments'

At each stage of the development process, we can build sustainability into our thinking. Each of the '10 commandments' heads a chapter outlining principles and good practice, stage by stage.

01 - Think About Reusing Buildings and Land
02 - Design for Minimum Waste
03 - Aim for Lean Construction
04 - Minimise Energy in Construction and Use
05 - Do Not Pollute
06 - Conserve and Enhance Biodiversity
07 - Conserve Water Resources
08 - Respect People and their Local Environment
09 - Think About the Whole Place
10 - Give People Transport Choices