UCL Sustainable Building Standard

UCL expects the highest standards for all our construction projects, as set out in our Sustainable Building Standard. 

In order to meet both internal and external targets, as well as the expectations of our staff and students, the document focuses on the following core principles:

1. Life cycle value: UCL has been occupying some of its buildings for decades, and even centuries. We need to future-proof our buildings, ensuring that they are robust and flexible within the context of a changing environment.
2. Energy use and carbon emissions: Our construction project teams are required to demonstrate how their work is addressing the institutional strategy for net zero carbon; with an emphasis on reducing energy demand and increasing durability.
3. Healthy and productive environments: Thoughtful design can help to improve the working environment for our staff and students. We consider the comfort and well-being of all building users alongside functional and technical requirements.
4. Circular Economy: Resource-efficient design can result in cost savings whilst also minimising environmental impacts. We will follow circular economy principles, using material and water resources as efficiently as possible, whilst also conserving natural capital.

Content includes: 

• Introduction
• Part 1: UCL’s Vision for Sustainable Buildings
• Part 2: Managing Sustainable Projects
• Part 3: Sustainable Design Requirements
• Appendices

Document author Ben Stubbs. 

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