Sustainability Assessments

> From the outset, Elevation Carbon works collaboratively with design teams to develop sustainable, low-carbon strategies that meet or exceed the standards set by green building certifications and/or local authorities and codes.

Sustainability Standards in Scotland

For instance, in Scotland, all new buildings must provide a "Statement of Sustainability" or Sustainability Label under Section 7 (Sustainability) to comply with Standard 7.1 of the Scottish Building Regulations. These labels are submitted alongside a completion certificate for any new building where Section 7 applies.

The Technical Handbooks' labelling system rewards new buildings that demonstrate baseline Building Standards compliance with a Bronze level label. Optional upper levels of sustainability for dwellings are defined by Silver, Gold, and Platinum levels. Currently, Section 7 for non-domestic Building Standards is developed only for schools, so other building types can achieve only Bronze or Bronze Active levels. 'Active' levels identify buildings incorporating low or zero carbon generating technologies (LZCGT).

Utilizing the System

This system can be utilized by developers or planners wishing to demonstrate their environmental commitment, and it can be linked with local development plans to provide planning authorities with a consistent route to achieve their obligations.

Sustainability Standard Goals

The sustainability standard aims to:

Recognize the level of sustainability already achieved by building regulations.

Encourage more demanding sustainability standards through enhanced upper levels, such as Full Silver Level compliance (Aspects 1-8).

Promote consistency among planning authorities using supplementary guidance to encourage higher measures of sustainable construction in their regions.

Meeting Local Aspirations

By referencing this standard, local aspirations can be met through the selection of clear national benchmarks. The term 'Aspect' refers to the subject area of sustainability, prominently covering resource use and performance. Examples of aspects named and defined in this standard for dwellings include:

- Energy for space heating, cooling and water heating,
- Well-being and security,
- Material use and waste.

'Level' denotes the banding where all aspects of sustainability reach a specific cutoff point, such as Bronze, Silver, Gold, or in the future, Platinum.

Middle East Relevance

In the Middle East, where rapid development and ambitious sustainability goals are prevalent, such services are invaluable. By integrating these sustainable, low-carbon strategies early in the design process, we can help developers meet the stringent requirements of regional standards like the UAE's Estidama Pearl Rating System and Saudi Arabia’s Green Building Forum guidelines. This not only ensures compliance but also enhances the marketability and value of properties by demonstrating a strong commitment to sustainability.

Early Engagement Benefits

Engaging with Elevation Carbon during the early design stages delivers significant value to new-build developments. By working closely with design teams, we assist in developing sustainable, energy-efficient strategies that meet or exceed planning and building standards in a cost-effective manner. This collaborative approach ensures that your project achieves its sustainability goals and contributes to a greener future, whether in the Middle East or globally.