COP 26 - 5 Top resources for the Built Environment
Source: ukcop26.org
With COP26 underway, all eyes are on Glasgow.
This year, COP26 has a crucial role to play in strengthening global action to reduce the impacts of climate change. Discussed topics will include the reduction of carbon emissions, encouraging financing programs for climate action and enhancing international collaboration for a transition to sustainable energy, clean road transport and preservation of natural resources.
For those who cannot make it to Glasgow in-person, there are numerous events and resources to keep you up to speed with everything going on at COP26.
Here is our round up of the top 5 resources for the Built Environment to guide you on your on Net Zero journey during and after COP26.
COP26 BUILT ENVIRONMENT VIRTUAL PAVILION
Visit the COP26 Built Environment Virtual Pavilion to explore an outstanding 360º virtual exhibition and discover some of the most inspiring projects in the built environment from all around the world. The UKGBC (UK Green Building Council) has partnered with industry to deliver the Built Environment Virtual Pavilion for COP26.
The focus of the Virtual Pavillion is to enable widespread access and increase engagement with the built environment issues at COP26. At the core of the pavilion is the Build Better Now programme, featuring an immersive virtual reality exhibition and a series of events showcasing inspiring global ideas for a more sustainable built environment.
The exhibition aims to highlight international projects offering sustainable solutions to the climate crisis, inviting everyone to discover innovative and sustainable ideas for buildings, cities and infrastructure.
Visit the COP26 Built Environment Virtual Pavilion.
Screenshot from: buildbetternow.co
2. ACAN AT COP26
ACAN (Architects’ Climate Action Network) is a network of individuals within architecture and related built environment professions taking action to address the twin crises of climate and ecological breakdown. Their mission is to address the way our built environment is made, operated and renewed in response to the climate emergency. ACAN aims to mobilise a new movement of professional activism within the built environment and construction industry.
ACAN have announced their physical presence in Glasgow with a programme of events, exhibitions and workshops for COP26. All of their events and activities are free to attend in each of the two venues: Many Studios and New Glasgow Society. ACAN aims to use these physical events as an opportunity to create dialogue and engage conversations with as many people as possible in and outside of the built environment.
See ACAN's full programme of events here.
Screenshot from: architectscan.org
3. PASSIVHAUS AT COP26
The Passivhaus Trust (PHT) is an independent industry-leading organisation that promotes the adoption of Passivhaus in the UK. They are part of the global Passivhaus movement and the UK affiliate of the International Passive House Association (iPHA).
PHT recognises that buildings are a significant culprit of carbon emissions, accounting for over 35% of global energy consumption. The construction industry has a massive role in reducing this, which is why Passivhaus is encouraged as a tried and tested solution to slash energy demand and ensure healthy, comfortable and sustainable indoor environments.
The Passivhaus Trust has compiled a list of exciting activities and events to get involved in, both during and immediately after the global climate change conference.
Discover more about the events and activities you can get involved in for free.
Source: passivhaustrust.org.uk
4. BUILT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT
The Built for Environment report is a global report produced by RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) in partnership with Architects Declare. This report clearly states that the built environment must drastically reduce its carbon emissions to work towards a net-zero system. The report demonstrates the role of the industry in tackling the climate emergency using a collection of research and publications submitted by the built environment sector.
Ahead of COP26, this report makes the case to urge governments to take immediate action by implementing more sustainable practices within their planning systems and setting more ambitious goals in order to fight the effects of climate change.
Download the Built for the Environment report.
Screenshot from: architecture.com (RIBA)
5. AJ CLIMATE CHAMPIONS PODCAST
The AJ (Architects’ Journal) Climate Champions podcast has AJ Sustainability Editor Hattie Hartman and co-host George Morgan interviewing change makers and innovators who are transforming architecture as we know it by designing in ways that respect planetary boundaries.
Latest episodes 15, 16 and 17, discuss topics related to COP26 in the build-up to the event.
Episode 15 hosts RIBA president Simon Allford, who talks about how the institute can help combat climate change and his vision for a House of Architecture.
Episode 16 focuses on two major projects happening on the ground in Glasgow as the host city of COP26 expects up to 30,000 visitors during the conference.
Episode 17 has Paula Pasino and Evelyn Choy discussing how Glasgow plans to achieve their Net-Zero goal by 2030 and what ACAN has in store for COP26.
Listen to the AJ Climate Champions Podcast.
source: architectsjournal.podbean.com/
Are you a built environment brand working hard for the good of people and planet?
Do you want to learn more about the art of communicating sustainability and need some guidance? Why not get in touch with us to talk through you communication challenges?
We would love to help share the inspiring work you are doing with the rest of the world. You deserve it!
Further reading:
How to communicate sustainability - dos and don'ts
Sustainability - The new luxury in interior design?
How to become a more sustainable business in 2021.
Marketing your built environment brand in a climate emergency.