The Institution of Structural Engineers – Design for Zero

Purchase from the IStructE website. Also available from CIS.

In Part 1 we examine the origins of some of our design practices and sources of carbon emissions. In Part 2, we present a vision for the future, supported by case studies of real projects that have successfully reduced carbon. In this book, we talk mainly about reducing carbon but recognise carbon as just one part of considering the sustainability impact of our work on the planet. Each project we work on should aim to leave the planet in a better condition than we found it.

Our case studies are deliberately chosen at the core of practice; we focus here on the low-hanging fruit rather than the glamourous extremes. This is because every project you are involved in must change. In Part 3, we show how you can advocate for improved design and how you can get involved.

The book is part of our collective efforts to transform our approach to carbon emissions and we don’t yet have all the answers. We therefore call upon you to join us in this effort and tell us how your practice is changing as a result of the climate emergency.