Architects of Change: A Guide to Implementing Sustainable Practices By Bridging the Green Skills Generation Gap

The UK has set a target of a 68% reduction of GHG emissions by 2030 and by 78% by 2035. Its goal is for net-zero emissions by 2050, a commitment the UK government set out in law in 2019. In response to our current era of climate emergency and urgent need to decarbonise the built environment, the studio theme continues to investigate approaches to the integration of climate resilience and net zero GHG emission design strategies. Improving the energy performance of the building stock and developing net zero emission building concepts are critical to avoid increase in energy use and GHG emissions.

The concept of climate resilient, net-zero emission buildings is gaining wide international attention and is a key climate mitigation pathway for achieving climate neutrality targets in the built environment. The Architects of Change programme addresses these challenges and has created a knowledge sharing initiative which marries world class academics with architecture students at The Belfast School of Architecture & the Built Environment at Ulster University with business leaders to empower them to deliver real change and net zero knowledge in the region.