What is a sustainable building? Discuss...

The debut debate will consider the motion: "There is no useful definition of what a sustainable building is", and will draw upon the experience and views of two industry experts: Doug King, Principal of King Shaws Associates Ltd. and visiting Professor for the Royal Academy of Engineering, and John Christophers, Associate at Associated Architects.Taking the form of an Oxford-style debate, both sides of the argument will be available for scrutiny at www.saint-gobain.co.uk/debates.

The opening statements will be posted 10th December, with the discussion ensuing during the following week, and culminating on 18th December when the victor will be announced. Visitors to the site will be encouraged to add their thoughts to the proceedings through a comments section, also having the option to cast their vote for or against the motion.

This will be the first of the series of debates, which aims to explore the most pressing issues in the construction industry today. The series will cover everything on the sustainable construction agenda, from the UK’s carbon zero performance and housing stock, to issues concerning Passivhaus and renewable energy solutions, with a view to moving onto more broad socio-economic issues in the future.

Richard Halderthay, Director of Communications for Saint-Gobain UK, Ireland & South Africa, said: “We are really excited to be launching our debate series. This gives us the opportunity to discuss important industry topics ranging from tackling fuel poverty and creating energy efficient buildings, looking at the impact of buildings on community wellbeing, to legislation and innovation, all in an open forum, with the benefit of the wealth of experience and expertise from a diverse panel and site visitors.

“Plus, visitors to the site will have the benefit of really getting involved with the discussion via the comments section, and by casting their vote. By adding their opinions and expertise to this debut debate, we hope to have a richer, more well-rounded look at the topic.

“Moving forward, with debates occurring on a regular basis, we’ll be able to provide an up-to-date and engaging insight into some of the key issues at the heart of industry and the built environment today. We hope everyone will get involved and contribute to the conversation.”

For further information, please visit www.saint-gobain.co.uk/debates.

For up-to-the-minute news and updates, follow Saint-Gobain UK & Ireland on Twitter, at @SaintGobainUK, or search #SGdebate.