Green issues still a core business concern for managers

Green issues have become a core business concern amongst managers responsible for the built environment, says the chair of the Green Building Council Andrew Gould in his introduction to a series of essays which highlight the benefits of a sustainable built environment as a driver for growth. Senior executives from 15 major companies, including Atkins, Balfour Beatty and E.ON, have written the pieces which outline the business case for green buildings and infrastructure. Added Gould: “At the start of 2013, with the short-medium term economic forecast only a little improved, the sustainability agenda is actually in rude health.”

The essays, entitled Leadership for Green Growth, which are published as the sustainable building exhibition Ecobuild opens in London, demonstrate the broad level of consensus across a diverse group of industry leaders – from design and construction firms to engineers and energy companies – on why sustainability issues are now a core business concern and how Government policy can help meet both environmental and economic goals.

The essays build on the work of the UK-GBC Leaders’ Network, which brings together senior figures from the built environment sector to create a unique dialogue around sustainability and business. For further information and to download the essays visit www.ukgbc.org/leaders-essays