According to a report published by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in 2018, there are only 12 years for global warming to be kept to a maximum of 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Beyond this increase, the risks of drought, floods, extreme heat and mass poverty will be significantly worsened. The potential adverse effects on the planet cannot be overstated. In order to limit the rise in temperatures to 1.5°C, carbon pollution will need to be cut by 45% by 2030 and further reduce to 0% by 2050.
The built environment sector accounts for around 40% of all UK CO2 emissions. Design, construction, occupation, maintenance and demolition of the world’s built environment consumes 50% of the raw materials used annually. Of the 200 million tonnes of waste generated in Britain every year, approximately 60% is construction debris.
It’s clear that the climate emergency is the biggest challenge facing our planet and our profession. Wholesale and systemic changes are required to ensure the industry does everything within its power to reduce its carbon emissions drastically over the next two decades. This will require the assistance of policy makers, industry leaders, clients and the support of the general public. As the statistics above illustrate, if the built environment can achieve net zero carbon by 2050, the industry would go a long way to help avert global climate catastrophe.
This year’s RSAW Annual Conference will seek to contextualise the serious risks posed by climate change, hear from industry experts to understand what has been done already to effect change and determine what is required in the immediate future.
We will consider the opportunities that climate change will present to architects to lead the industry through positive influence, knowledge and technological innovation. Best practice exemplars will illustrate what can be achieved with the understanding and consent of willing clients. We will also explore the enormous worth in retrofitting existing buildings. The day will be rounded off by the long-established ‘Inspiration Hour’ to ensure delegates leave feeling stimulated and uplifted following an intensive day!
For the full programme including details of how to book, please download either the Welsh or English language flyers below:
- Cynhadledd Flynyddol RSAW 2019 - Rhaglen a ffurflen archebu (PDF, 1.68MB)
- 2019 RSAW Annual Conference - flier and booking form (PDF, 1.63MB)
Co-hosted by Rockpanel
Sponsored by:
Fineline Aluminium
Ibstock
Marley Alutec
Wernick Buildings Limited
