One of the biggest volunteer-built organic straw-buildings in Britain, and an architectural piece of innovation constructed of just five main materials, is ready to throw open its doors for the first time for youth groups such as Scouts, Guides, care groups as well as weddings. The Bunkhouse at Fordhall Farm,
Cowi turns down all fossil fuel projects
As the first among peers, international engineering company COWI aims to transform its business and reach 100 per cent revenue within sustainability-related projects in three to five years’ time.
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“This is one of the strongest statements in COWI history and with the decision not to take on any projects which are accommodating the exploration of fossil fuels from now on, we are accepting the role as one of the frontrunners worldwide within our line of business,” says Lars-Peter Søbye, Group CEO. In light of the current climate crisis, the world needs real action in order to hand over a sustainable and liveable world to future generations. COWI will therefore allocate all resources to projects that move customers towards sustainability. As the first among peers, COWI promises to have 100 per cent of its revenue from projects driving sustainability within three to five years.
Airtightness blamed for health risks in homes
Throughout the past year a slew of reports has been published that raise serious questions about the safety of new-build homes. Increasingly stringent building regulations aimed at reducing carbon emissions are resulting in new houses that are ever more airtight. While this helps reduce fuel consumption, the burden is on architects to ensure that occupants of new homes can breathe clean and fresh air. Recent evidence suggests that the construction industry, designers included, is failing to meet this challenge. Read more
Paul Harrison, an independent toxicologist and member of a working group on air quality created by the Royal College of Physicians, describes serious health risks associated with poor ventilation systems. ‘Sick building syndrome describes a variety of symptoms including headaches, allergies, reduced productivity, a sore throat and dry skin,’ he says. ‘In addition, poor air quality can provoke asthma.’ Architects Journal