The retrofit sphere with CIOB

Introduction

In this episode, Claire Brown is joined by Amanda Williams, Head of Environmental Sustainability at the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), to explore what a truly holistic approach to retrofit looks like. They discuss why retrofit needs to consider the whole building as a system, bringing together energy efficiency, carbon reduction, building condition, ventilation, resilience, occupant comfort, health and wellbeing, rather than focusing on individual technologies in isolation.

The episode explores the growing importance of retrofit in meeting net zero ambitions while delivering wider social and economic benefits, from warmer and healthier homes and lower energy bills to tackling fuel poverty, supporting biodiversity and strengthening local communities. Claire and Amanda also discuss the critical role of residents and building occupants, the skills and competencies needed across the retrofit supply chain, and the importance of quality assurance, collaboration and long-term investment in skills. Amanda shares insights into CIOB’s work to promote best practice, training and policy development, as well as practical advice for organisations beginning their retrofit journey.

Ultimately, successful retrofit is about more than reducing carbon – it is about improving people’s homes, workplaces and lives. This episode highlights why putting people at the heart of retrofit, while investing in the professionals and skills needed to deliver high-quality projects, will be essential to creating better-performing buildings and healthier, more resilient and sustainable communities.

For further information visit: www.ciob.org

This podcast is an informal discussion between interested parties associated with Retrofit Information, Support and Expertise. Any views expressed are those of the individuals concerned and do not seek to represent the government.