Participation

The first step towards achieving new or refurbished buildings that meet highest standards in sustainable development is to ensure that there is comprehensive and committed support and buy-in at all levels of your organisation (also see Leadership and management). This includes enthusiastic endorsement for the project from higher management and from the delivery team including the finance department, the architect and the design and construction team. Developers of many successful buildings emphasise the importance of having at least one “champion” from senior management who is fully committed to the concept and the practicalities of implementing sustainable development into the project. The education team must also contribute strongly towards ensuring that all aspects of sustainable development are fully recognised, not only within the organisation’s management but also within the wider economy including the future users of the building (learners, staff), the local community, builders and suppliers.