An Introduction to Sustainability in the Built Environment (on-demand)
The built environment currently contributes around 40% of annual CO2 emissions, and has a huge impact on biodiversity globally. Improving the sustainability of the built environment is imperative if we are to reduce our impact on the planet, and adapt to a changing climate.
On this four-module online course, you’ll learn about the current context – the climate and ecological emergency, and the built environment impact. You’ll read and discuss the core concepts, and the ways we can improve sustainability of the built environment. You’ll understand the importance of the built environment in fighting the climate and ecological emergency, and the role you can play in influencing change. By the end, you’ll feel equipped to advocate for sustainable building design and delivery and be empowered to apply this knowledge in your own organisation.
What will you achieve?
About the course
This self-directed online course runs every other month throughout the year. The course is a combination of reading, self-led activities, quizzes and discussion. You’ll be part of a cohort of people from across industry taking the course at the same time; you’ll have opportunities to discuss the concepts raised in the course with your peers.
Alongside discussion and other activities, the UKGBC team will be on hand to support your learning and answer any questions.
What does the course cover?
Through your four weeks of learning, you’ll work through the following modules:
Module 1: Context. In this module, you’ll be welcomed into the course and begin the learning journey by exploring why sustainability in the built environment is so critical for the future, and the role that the built environment plays in either exacerbating or mitigating climate change and broader sustainability issues.
Module 2: Concepts. In this module, you’ll explore five key concepts of sustainability in the built environment and different building typologies including: Climate Change; Resource Use; Nature & Biodiversity; Social Value; and Health & Wellbeing.
Module 3: Cases. In this module, you’ll delve into a variety of case studies and also be given the opportunity to develop and share one of your own.
Module 4: Change: This is where you’ll take action! You’ll investigate the unique role that you can play in influencing the sustainability of the built environment around them. You’ll also be asked to make commitment to push your single most impactful action forward.
How does it work?
Who is the course for?
This course is designed for anyone working in the built environment and construction sectors who wants to develop their sustainability knowledge and skills.
You may already be working in the built environment and be looking to upskill in the field of sustainability, or you may have knowledge of sustainability and want to apply this to the context of the built environment. If you have limited knowledge of both buildings and sustainability and want to learn more about sustainable design and delivery, this course will give you a solid introduction.
CPD hours: 16
Tickets
Member tickets are £50
Non-member tickets are: £200
Keystone members are entitled to free places for this course. Please contact learning@UKGBC.org for more information.
If you’re unsure if your organisation is a member, please check our Membership Directory.
Do you want to enrol a whole team?
UKGBC can offer this course to closed cohorts, running at a time of your convenience – please get in touch with our learning team to get more information: learning@UKGBC.org.
Cancellation and refund policy
Please see our website for more details on our cancellations and refunds: https://ukgbc.org/ukgbc-cancellation-and-refund-policy/
Get involved
Related
UKGBC’s Learning: An Introductory Webinar (September 2025)
UKGBC’s Learning: An Introductory Webinar (April 2025)
UKGBC’s Learning: An Introductory Webinar (January 2025)
Writing Whole Life Carbon Assessment reports in the Built Environment – A Workshop (Online)
