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Award ceremony left-right: Simon Pott, Chairman of Judges, Keith Rodgers, Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Mike Goodwin, Bangor University, Max Crofts, RICS President and Kevin McCloud, Awards Presenter.
The iconic Environment Centre Wales building in Bangor is rapidly building an international reputation as an exemplar building of sustainable design and construction, and is one of only three buildings worldwide to have received a commendation for its sustainable credentials.
The commendation was made under the Sustainability Awards in the international final of the prestigious Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Awards.
30 research scientists and support staff from the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology share the building with researchers from Bangor University.
According to the RICS panel's sustainability judge, Jim Ure, the Environment Centre Wales building is "truly sustainable from inception and its research and educational value will help further the understanding of sustainability in operation."
According to Kevin McCloud, Honorary Member of RICS and awards presenter; "The RICS Awards stand out because the winners must show both excellence in their category, and a commitment to value for money and sustainability. The Awards recognise a full spectrum of organisations and projects worldwide, from small schemes achieved by the vision and persistence of one person, to multimillion budget, globally recognised developments. Each carefully shows how property professionals employ their skills to develop, regenerate and conserve the environment in which we live and work."
Professor Bridget Emmett from the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Bangor Head of Site, said, "The project has provided a distinguished architectural contribution to Bangor's townscape. Attractive local slate and native oak cladding from sustainable woodlands reflect the buildings environment. It sits in landscaped grounds with native tree species, native grassland and wild flowers. Sustainability runs through every aspect of this building, from the science that goes on inside, to recycling," added
"We are delighted that this project has received such high commendation. The project has succeeded in providing excellent functional spaces in an extremely appealing building. There was a very strong emphasis on environmental sustainability in the building's design, construction and operation. This success confirms the project's intent to be a shining example of environmental construction" said Professor Merfyn Jones, Bangor University's Vice-Chancellor.
The building was designed and built with the environment in mind. All the materials used in the building have been selected for their low environmental cost and the highest standard of durability.
The design enables around 50% of the building's heat, light and electricity to be generated by natural means. Photovoltaic panels on the roof generate electricity from sunlight, and a ground-source heat pump air-conditions the building using minimal energy. A combined heat and power plant increases the efficiency of the use of fossil fuels for heating and hot water. Extensive rainwater harvesting provides a constant supply of grey water to all toilets and services which do not require treated water, while passive ventilation throughout the building ensures the more effective use of heat and more efficient cooling in summer.
The design also facilitates interaction and addressed the needs and wishes of the people who work in the building for natural light and better ventilation.
Additional information
Bangor University issued a press release for this story. Further information for journalists on the CEH involvemnet in Environment Centre Wales can be obtained from the CEH press office.
Previous CEH News Story - Prime Minister Gordon Brown opens new ‘Environment Centre Wales’ - 15th February 2008
