Roadshow Focus on Construction Changes
The initial results of an innovative project to support the construction industry in adopting better environmentally friendly products and working practices will be highlighted in a special roadshow at Derby College’s Roundhouse vocational campus next month (Wednesday February 3).
Derby College is working alongside five other colleges in the region on a major two-year project aiming to boost the use of energy efficient technology such as solar, biomass and mini/micro chip systems and modern methods of construction (MMC).
The Innovation in Sustainable Construction project, is managed by East Midlands New Technology Initiative (NTI) and funded by the LSC, is mid-way through its work and has organised roadshows which will be attended by professionals from the construction industry and by college students and staff.
Derby College’s remit in the project has been to investigate the use and potential for MMC such as off site manufactured engineered timber frames and panels from sustainable sources. The College is also investigating the increased use of off-site manufactured, concrete wall and floor panels and volumetric buildings, for instance entire kitchen and bathroom ‘pods’ which are produced in a factory and then installed into the structure – This reduces the time on site for installation, reduced waste, improved build quality and energy efficiency of buildings.
Other colleges are looking at aspects of construction including renewable energy buildings, dual fuel systems, thermal mass and water management.
Derby College’s specialist advisor Martin Jones, explained: “Small and medium sized construction companies are not incorporating energy efficient technology because they are too uncertain about the products available.
“An initial survey showed that, although most companies knew about the energy saving products and methods currently available, they are reluctant to adopt them because of uncertainty and a lack of independent and reliable advice.
“The purpose of the roadshows is to highlight the work from all six colleges involved, feedback the initial research that we have undertaken and raise awareness of the issues facing industry on this important agenda.
“As well as speaking to key people working in the industry, it is particularly vital that we share the information findings and the knowledge gained with employers and construction students alike, throughout the region who are of course the workforce of the future.
“The second year of the project will be spent putting the research findings into action to further encourage businesses to look at their working practices and, within the colleges, to plan the future construction curriculum for all full time students, apprentices and employees who need to update their workforce’s skills and knowledge to meet the challenges ahead.”
Project Manager Professor Roy Morledge of Nottingham Trent University added: “Businesses across the industry are under pressure to adopt innovative products or processes which will create energy efficient, low carbon houses and buildings.
“There are many affordable construction products and technologies available but an uncertainty about how to integrate them into existing construction methods is holding back busy firms from introducing them to clients.
“This project brings independent advice to companies that is not available anywhere else in the country and illustrates how further education colleges can adopt an exciting new role supporting designers and construction businesses to innovate in the delivery of efficient and sustainable buildings.”
Anyone wishing to attend the roadshow should contact either john.hodgkinson@derby-college.ac.uk or awatkinson@dmu.ac.uk
More information can also be found at www.InnovationInSustainableConstruction.co.uk.