top of page
Search

Net zero adaptation - a review of built environment sustainability assessment tools

Updated: Oct 11, 2021

In the context of the built environment there has been a greater focus of research and policy on climate mitigation efforts, compared with adaptation. Buildings designed today will likely need upgrades within their lifetime if adaptation is not adequately considered.


There is currently no widely adopted system for assessing building adaptation in design and clearer guidance is needed. By way of example, a review of three established, geographically diverse building sustainability assessment tools (BREEAM, Green Star and LEED) demonstrates the extent that adaptation to climate change and mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions have been integrated.


Despite recent assessment updates, emphasis on action pertaining to climate issues is heavily weighted towards mitigation; the integration of adaptation considerations is limited and in most cases not mandatory.


This state of play in assessment tools is reflective of wider shortfalls in meaningfully addressing climate change risk in asset design. To ensure that asset investment considers climate-related impacts in a holistic manner, better mechanisms for achieving an integrated perspective of mitigation and adaptation are required.


Click here for the full article.


This article is reproduced here through the kind permission of Amie Shuttleworth member of the Red Links Sustainability Consortium and independent consultant. The original publication is source: Amie Shuttleworth and Kristen MacAskill 2021 Environ. Res.: Infrastruct. Sustain. 1 023002

Click here to learn how Amie and the Red Links Sustainability Consortium can help you better understand and assimilate climate risks and opportunities into your business and more



External links are included for readers’ convenience. The inclusion of these sources is neither an endorsement of that provider nor intended to provide readers with any assurance as to the completeness or accuracy of the particular article linked. This content is for general information purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for consultation with professional advisors.




Comments


bottom of page