The criticism of ESG: why is it becoming controversial?

Despite their growing popularity, ESG policies and practices have attracted criticism from many. Here’s why. Profit and appetite for risk are no longer the sole factor considered in investment decisions.…

7 UCEM students and alumni share their tips for work, life and study

There’s no denying that studying for a degree, apprenticeship or any qualification can be challenging – particularly when, like many of our students and apprentices, you’re working at the same…

Be Part of the Change podcast episodes 5-7 – Neurodiversity Celebration Week

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…

Building up to COP29 – here’s what to expect from this year’s conference

This November sees the return of one of the most controversial yet significant events in the sustainability calendar. On 11 November, United Nation’s latest Conference of the Parties (COP) event…

What are smart cities (and are they the future of the built environment)?

Are smart cities another marketing buzzword in the built environment, or are they really the future of our urban infrastructure? You may well have heard of smart homes and smart…

What is the green skills gap (and why does it matter)?

The built environment is in dire need of sustainability talent. Here are 10 skills that can help close the growing green talent gap. The UK is in a race to…

Everyone can contribute to global change: a Q&A with UCEM Student Officer for Sustainability Kian Bruney

Kian Bruney has been appointed as one of four new Student Officers for Sustainability at UCEM. We sat down with him to find out what drew him to the role…

A guide to ESG: what is it and why does it matter?

ESG has grown from a small CSR initiative into a global business priority and a multi-million-dollar industry. Here’s why it matters. The factors that determine success for a company have…

Apprenticeships: the secret ingredient for diversity in the built environment?

Apprenticeships can offer a raft of benefits for businesses, including a chance to improve the diversity of their hiring pool. The benefits of having a diverse workforce are well documented.…

14 building materials shaping the future of the built environment

These 14 innovative and futuristic materials are set to change the way our infrastructure is built. Through innovations in energy efficiency, resource usage and insulation, the built environment is hard…

What’s happening with Skills England and the Apprenticeship Levy?

One of Labour’s first acts after winning the UK General Election was to announce changes to the Apprenticeship Levy. Here’s what these changes could mean for businesses. July 2024 welcomed…

Smart buildings, explained – here’s what they mean for the built environment

Smart buildings could represent the intelligent, connected and sustainable future of the built environment. The built environment is no stranger to digital transformation. Just as technology is revolutionising processes across…