Introduction
The Elevate approach
Sustainable development is at the heart of our strategy and programmes. We are working closely with our local authority partners to ensure each project is planned and implemented in line with the need to protect the environment and use natural resources prudently. We have developed a sustainability framework, guide and checklist to enable partners, developers and builders to ensure all development proceeds in line with the principles set out in this guide.
Elevate sustainability requirements for developers and contractors
Elevate is committed to sustainable construction and refurbishment. In line with this approach sustainability requirements have been embedded into each stage of the Elevate development process, from masterplanning and developer selection, to contract arrangement and performance measurement. The sustainability requirements are supported by a bespoke group of key performance indicators (KPIs) that have been developed to ensure that the triple bottom line of sustainability is achieved on Elevate's development schemes. The KPIs have been integrated into developer requirements and include:
- Environmental Sustainability - EcoHomes 'Very Good' (this will be replaced by the new Code for Sustainable Homes)
- Social Sustainability - Community Engagement within the development process
- Economic Sustainability - Using the local supply chain.
Sustainable development - what is it?
The UK Government’s Sustainable Development Strategy ‘Securing the Future’ defines it as ‘the goal of sustainable development is to enable all people throughout the world to satisfy their basic needs and enjoy a better quality of life, without compromising the quality of life of future generations..’. Only through sustainable development can we maintain and improve our quality of life – a quality of life that depends on clean air, good health, access to affordable and energy efficient housing, and access to good community services. To find out more about sustainable development and the policies that support it, visit these links:
Sustainable Development Commission www.sd-commission.org.uk
UK Government Sustainable Development Unit www.sustainable-development.gov.uk
North WestRegional Assembly – Action for Sustainability www.actionforsustainability.org
EcoHomes standards
Sustainability Northwest has produced a guide to achieving EcoHomes standards in new-build and refurbishments in the Elevate regeneration area. Click here for the full report.