The increasing drive towards low carbon and sustainable solutions in the built environment has introduced a need for built environment professionals who can take a holistic view of the sustainability debate. This programme will combine the technical design and engineering issues associated with the delivery of sustainable built environments with an appreciation for how such approaches can be justified in a commercially focused world. The programme considers passive (building fabric) and active measures (building services and renewable energy technologies) setting out what approach may be taken when considering new build or, as is becoming increasingly important the existing building stock. Students will gain the skills needed to assess these options on a whole life basis with an appreciation for how the financial and business case can be made for such approaches. The programme is closely linked with the schools Sustainable Built Environments Research Group (SBERG) and will be informed by the cutting edge research carried out by the group considering technical, behavioural and social issues associated with the delivery of sustainable built environments. The University of Greenwich is a Passive House Examination Centre and students can gain extra certification as a Passive House Designer/Consultant by taking the programme.
The university has invested £76 million in a new building to house the campus library, TV studios and academic facilities for disciplines including architecture, design and construction. Stockwell Street, where the programme will be delivered, is a short walk from the university's buildings on the Old Royal College site.
The aims of the programme are:
- To develop skills and understanding around the principles of sustainable building with a view to delivering healthy, comfortable, efficient and environmentally friendly buildings
- To consider how the above issues can be applied when working with existing buildings
- To take the technical knowledge gained and working within a commercial world to produce convincing and robust business cases for implementing sustainable solutions.
