Design for zero

Author: J J Orr, M Cooke, T J Ibell, C Smith & N Watson

Date published

29 October 2021

Price
Standard: £49.95
Member: £31.95
Student Member: £24.95
The Institution of Structural Engineers The Institution of Structural Engineers
Back to Previous

Design for zero

Tag
Author
J J Orr, M Cooke, T J Ibell, C Smith & N Watson
Date published
29 October 2021
Price
Standard: £49.95
Member: £31.95
Student Member: £24.95
Guidance
Author

J J Orr, M Cooke, T J Ibell, C Smith & N Watson

Date published

29 October 2021

Author

J J Orr, M Cooke, T J Ibell, C Smith & N Watson

Price

Standard: £49.95
Member: £31.95
Student Member: £24.95

Overdesign results in carbon-intensive buildings.

This guide explains why overdesign is so prevalent, and its impact on material consumption and CO2 emissions. The guidance covers the design process, through to fabrication, assembly, use, and deconstruction.

Part 1 examines the origins of certain design practices and sources of carbon emissions.

Part 2 presents a vision for the future, supported by case studies of real projects that have successfully reduced carbon. The case studies have been deliberately chosen - highlighting commonly-encountered scenarios, rather than showcasing glamourous extremes.

Part 3 offers advice on how to advocate for improved design, and the ways an individual can contribute.


‘Business as usual’ is incompatible with climate emergency, and deep changes across the design, construction, use, and re-use of buildings and infrastructure are required if we are to have any chance of providing a sustainable environment for the 9.7bn people who will share our planet in 2050.

We must make carbon considerations as important as our safety calculations. Every project must change.

Additional information

Format:
Book (A4 print or PDF)
Publisher:
IStructE Ltd
Attachments:

Tags

Software Guidance Suitable for students Sustainability & Environment Climate change Digital Calculation Conceptual Design Guides

Related Resources & Events

<h4>IStructE Chartered member exam preparation course 2025</h4>

IStructE Chartered member exam preparation course 2025

This course held over six weeks helps you prepare for the Institution's Chartered Membership Exam.

Date – 18 February 2025
Location – University of Bristol Queens Building University Walk Bristol BS8 1TR
Price – £100
Course
<h4>Practical law: dealing with domestic clients - March 2025</h4>

Practical law: dealing with domestic clients - March 2025

This half-day course is tailored for engineers operating within the domestic and small commercial sectors. It aims to equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of specific contractual and legal challenges they may encounter. Additionally, it highlights common legal pitfalls that can be mitigated through proper awareness and understanding.

Date – 26 March 2025
Location – Online
Price – £245.00
Visit
<h4>Application Status of Integrated Construction (MiC) in Hong Kong – Technical Visit</h4>

Application Status of Integrated Construction (MiC) in Hong Kong – Technical Visit

Technical Visit to Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) Factory in Mainland China

Date – 29 March 2025
Location – Huizhou and Pingshan, Mainland China
Price – HK$600