A roadmap to enhanced sustainability value in built environment : an optimised impact-framework

Abstract

Implementing this approach guarantees that the sustainability strategic goals and objectives of the client organisation are met and simultaneously addresses both environmental objectives and the preferences and needs of the end-user. This research emphasises the crucial necessity to equip sustainability consultants with the tools to make informed decisions that prioritise impactful sustainable solutions, rather than simply targeting high accreditation scores and levels. The research introduces an optimised framework for sustainable developments that constructs a decision-making matrix focused on achieving desired impacts, showcasing Net-Zero as an example theme. This framework integrates standards such as LEED and the WELL Building Standards. Additionally, the framework aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), striving for equilibrium among the sustainability pillars. For practitioners involved in the credit selection process, the proposed framework offers a roadmap on how to optimise sustainability value by focusing on the impact, while balancing both the business value of stakeholders and the comfort and satisfaction of end-users. Uniquely, this research employs Backcasting as a novel method within the sustainability credit selection framework, forecasting future impacts and then interpret these projections retrospectively to refine credit selection strategies for optimal sustainability results