By applying the CWCT embodied carbon calculation methodology to a Croydon office, Patrick Ryan Associates estimated whether selecting a new high-performing façade is better for reducing whole life carbon than retaining elements of the original. Anri Doda and Jill Wang explain
Author: mollytooherrudd
What the awards data reveals
The quality of data submitted alongside project entries for CIBSE’s Building Performance Awards improves each year. Julie Godefroy analyses the 2023 entries and signposts potential information requirements for the future
Building Regulations update: single sex toilets
In response to a growing trend towards ‘gender neutral’ toilets, Government is consulting a new Part T of the Building Regulations dealing with toilet provision. Hywel Davies explains the proposals
Transposing EU directives into UK law
How the government plans to improve the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme and regulate energy use, by Hywel Davies
Lighting the path: interview with SLL president Helen Loomes
Innovation, sustainability, and health and wellbeing will take centre stage during Helen Loomes’ term as President of the Society of Light and Lighting. Molly Tooher-Rudd hears about her plans for the year, which include two new lighting events
Formula for success: Sizing heat pumps in hybrid energy centres
Reducing the size of heat pumps in hybrid energy centres can cut carbon and capital costs dramatically – but what ratio of heat should they supply? Research by FairHeat’s Ellie Hiscock used hourly load modelling to come up with a rule of thumb for the optimal heat ratios for heat pumps and thermal storage with electric boilers
Lighting’s critical role in healthcare
As well as minimising infection risk, the big trend in healthcare lighting is circadian lighting. HDR’s Karen Murphy looks at the latest research
Phased approach: optimising heat networks
The government’s new Heat Network Optimisation Guide aims to improve the performance of existing networks by rigorously analysing performance and making cost-effective interventions that maximise efficiency. Alex Smith reports
Beauty in standardisation: Travis Perkins’ digital plan to decarbonise housebuilding
Travis Perkins’ WholeHouse digital design platform allows housebuilders to deliver efficient, repeatable housing to the latest sustainability standards, and includes prefabricated heat pump systems. Alex Smith reports
Beacon of learning: LET’s Diploma in Lighting Design
The Diploma in Lighting Design is open to anyone with an interest in furthering their knowledge of lighting technology and research. Atkin’s Kristina Allison MSLL MCIBSE answers questions on an enlightening career move