Be Part of the Change podcast episode 3 – mental health in the built environment

The built environment comprises a diverse and exciting range of sectors, but there is still a lack of representation at every level. We want this to change. ‘Be Part of…

What is BIM (and how does it work)?

Here’s why building information modelling (BIM) is at the centre of digital transformation across architecture, construction and the wider built environment. Construction projects are far from simple. From the design and…

Making waves as a female Building Surveyor: a Q&A with UCEM Alumni Annabel Huffer

We met with UCEM alumni Annabel Huffer to discuss her experiences as a female building surveyor and why she advocates so strongly for apprenticeships. Despite making up around half the…

Your guide to the golden thread: the cornerstone of building information

The golden thread is a hot topic in the construction industry as the Building Safety Act comes into effect. Here’s why. To most people, a building is purely a physical…

16 sustainable and cost-effective building materials

These 16 innovative and eco-friendly materials can help the construction industry address its role in the climate crisis. The built environment is one of the single most pollutive sectors in…

Could flexible working be the key to greater diversity in construction?

Flexible working could be the silver bullet that construction companies need to improve diversity and representation in the sector. Here's how. Flexible working has been steadily growing in popularity over…

What is adaptive reuse (and why is it important)?

Adaptive reuse has emerged as a sustainable alternative to demolition for the built environment. Here’s how it works. The Göbekli Tepe is an archaeological site that was inhabited from 9500…

My understanding of sustainability has completely changed: a student profile with David Harris

“Sustainability is the biggest challenge our industry, our generation, probably the world has ever faced.” David Harris is no stranger to managing study on top of his work. He graduated…

Creating a culture of sustainability: a Q&A with UCEM Project Manager Emma Kearsey

Emma Kearsey, Project Manager at UCEM, gave us an overview of a new initiative at UCEM – the Sustainability Champions. UCEM have launched Sustainability Champions – an internal initiative encouraging…

This is why your sustainability initiatives are failing

Sustainability is no longer a long-term aspiration for the built environment – it’s imperative for any business that wants to survive in the current economic landscape.  Today’s customers and employees…

Green Claims Code checklist: are you guilty of greenwashing?

The Green Claims Code has been developed to help businesses communicate their sustainable practices clearly to customers. Here’s how it works. You may have noticed a shift in the tone…

Championing the student voice: a Q&A with UCEM Student Trustee Ben McManus

Ben McManus has recently been appointed as our new Student Trustee. We sat down with Ben to learn more about his journey in the built environment to date and his…