A profound moral imperative Building services engineers should be climate optimists

As the world continues to grapple with the profound impacts of climate change, our role as designers of mechanical and electrical engineering systems in buildings has never been more critical. We have the power to influence energy consumption, carbon reduction, and the overall sustainability of the built environment.

Adopting a climate-optimistic mindset can drive innovation, enhance community resilience, unlock economic benefits and fulfill a moral responsibility to future generations. Here are some reasons why I think that climate optimism should be a guiding principle for designers and building managers, writes Adrian Catchpole, CIBSE immediate Past President.

Innovation and sustainable solutions

A climate-optimistic mindset fosters innovation. Hence, engineers who believe in the potential for positive change are more inclined to explore and implement cutting-edge technologies that can revolutionise building systems. The shift toward renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, gives us the opportunity to integrate more advanced mechanical and electrical systems. For example, mechanical engineers can design HVAC systems that incorporate passive heating and cooling, which significantly reduce energy consumption. Similarly, electrical engineers can develop smart grids, battery systems and energy management systems that optimise energy use in real-time. By embracing an optimistic view, we can push the boundaries of what is possible, leading to the development of systems that are both efficient and sustainable. Energy and carbon efficiency Energy and carbon efficiency are at the heart of sustainable building design and operation so, as optimistic designers, we are empowered to pursue strategies that reduce energy consumption. This leads to lower operational costs and environmental impact. By integrating carbon-efficient technologies, our mechanical and electrical systems can dramatically decrease a building’s overall energy use.

Moreover, with the rise of energy modelling software, we can simulate various scenarios and identify the most efficient configurations before the building is constructed. This proactive approach not only contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, but also demonstrates the feasibility of ambitious sustainability targets.

The final piece of the puzzle is for us to embed considerations about embodied carbon within our decision-making. Through its TM65 and local addendums, CIBSE continues to take the global lead on calculating and reducing embodied carbon in building services systems. This assesses the whole “life carbon”.

Regulatory changes and market demand

As governments worldwide enact stricter environmental regulations and building codes, the demand for sustainable engineering solutions is rising. Designers who maintain a climate-optimistic outlook are better positioned to adapt to these changes, proactively seeking out innovative solutions that comply with emerging standards.

The market for green building certification programmes, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), PassivHaus, and NABERS UK (which CIBSE currently administers), is expanding. Clients are increasingly seeking out buildings that meet these standards due to the associated benefits, including reduced operational costs, improved occupant comfort and social responsibility. We are ideally placed to create compliant, efficient systems to deliver such solutions and enhance their professional reputation.

Economic advantages

Sustainability and economic viability need not be mutually exclusive. In fact, they often go hand in hand. As climate optimists, we recognise the long-term financial benefits of investing in sustainable engineering systems. Initial costs associated with high-efficiency technologies may well be offset by the significant savings generated in future energy and maintenance.

For instance, while installing a highefficiency heat network may require a higher upfront investment, the operational savings – along with potential tax incentives and rebates – can result in a quick return on investment. By designing systems with a life-cycle cost approach, we can often present compelling business cases for sustainability, demonstrating that climate action can also lead to financial success.

Fostering community resilience

Buildings play a vital role in community resilience, especially as climate-related challenges become more identifiable. As designers and building operators, we have the power to create systems that not only withstand extreme weather events but also promote community wellbeing. Mechanical systems can be designed to manage stormwater effectively, reducing the risk of flooding in urban areas. Electrical systems can incorporate backup power solutions, such as battery storage, ensuring that essential services remain operational during power outages. By prioritising resilience in our designs, we contribute to the creation of safer, more adaptable communities, which are better equipped to face climate challenges.

Interdisciplinary approaches

Climate optimism helps encourage collaboration among the various disciplines involved in building design, which is something that CIBSE has been advocating for many years. Mechanical and electrical engineers, architects and construction professionals can work together much more effectively when they share a common vision of a sustainable building. By embracing optimism, we can foster an environment of open communication and idea-sharing, leading to more holistic, integrated and successful solutions.

For instance, by collaborating with architects early in the design process, we can ensure that systems are optimised for the specific characteristics of a building, enhancing energy efficiency and occupant comfort. Interdisciplinary teamwork often leads to more creative problem-solving and innovation to address multiple sustainability goals.

Moral imperative

At the heart of climate optimism is a profound moral imperative. The choices made today will significantly impact the planet and its inhabitants for years to come. By adopting a climate-optimistic mindset, we have a mandate to advocate practices that prioritise environmental stewardship and social equity.

This perspective should now compel designers and building managers to consider not only the immediate benefits of their systems, but additionally the long-term consequences. For instance, choosing sustainable materials and technologies that minimise environmental impact reflects a commitment to leaving a healthier planet for future generations.

This was prevalent again recently at CIBSE’s Graduate of the Year Awards where ALL of the finalists indicated this as being central to their choice of career.

Power of positive narratives

Finally, by embracing climate optimism, we can frame our work within a positive narrative. Instead of focusing solely on the challenges posed by climate change, we can highlight the opportunities for innovation, collaboration and progress. By sharing our success stories of sustainable building projects, we can motivate others to pursue similar initiatives. This is what CIBSE’s Building Performance Awards seeks to achieve.

Positive narratives can galvanise public support for sustainable practices, encouraging communities and organisations to invest in climate-friendly technologies. When people see tangible examples of successful projects, they become more likely to advocate for sustainable design and embrace the idea that collective action can lead to meaningful change.

Conclusion

With 40% of our global carbon emissions coming from buildings, designers of mechanical and electrical engineering systems in buildings have a unique opportunity to shape a more sustainable future. By adopting a climate-optimistic mindset, we can drive innovation, enhance energy efficiency, respond to regulatory changes, and foster community resilience. The economic advantages and moral imperatives of sustainable design underscore the importance of this approach and give us the opportunity to take a leading role.

As we confront the realities of climate change, it is clear that the role of the climate-optimistic designer is crucial. By believing in the potential for positive change, we can create systems that not only meet current needs, but also pave the way for a sustainable and thriving future. Embracing climate optimism is not just a choice – it is a necessity for building a better world for ourselves and generations to come.

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