Design, process, and service innovations to achieve sustainability

Abstract

Climate change has led to the global recognition of the need to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings. In the UK increasingly demanding building regulations require contractors to use innovative products and processes in their construction processes in order to deliver the specified environmental sustainability performance levels. Cost effective innovative solutions for achieving sustainability in construction requires considerable effort and commitment. As a fragmented and project-based industry, much construction innovation is co-developed at the project level. The major objective of this study is to analyse a construction project by exploring the role of design, process, and service innovations in achieving sustainability. In this respect, the eco-friendly accommodation at Lancaster University has been investigated as a case study. The project presents a case of client-driven innovation where building regulations on sustainability were taken into account in developing design and planning the construction process. The paper discusses the leading role of the university client as well as the role of partnering approach and community engagement in the innovation process. Finally, some recommendations are provided based on the lessons learned in this project.