Sustainability and maximising return on investment

Is it possible for sustainability and maximising return on investment to go hand in hand with modern construction projects?

We think so.

Whilst green credentials like reducing, reusing, and recycling materials during the build phase are increasingly important for an industry that has a huge environmental impact, the bigger picture of sustainable construction is about creating responsible long-term projects that have longevity and positive return on investment (ROI) for both the developer and the planet.

By considering the lifecycle of a construction project, sustainability can not only help reduce environmental impact, but it can also maximise that return on investment.

A truly sustainable project provides maximum value through its lifecycle, standing the test of time financially, aesthetically, and physically – a project built to last.

How sustainability can help with return on investment

Sustainability can be achieved in conjunction with return on investment, particularly when the project is considered from its full life cycle perspective.

Whilst there are ways in which sustainability can save costs during the build phase, the construction process is a small proportion of the lifetime of the building. Cutting short-term costs might make the building cheaper to construct but it could cost more in the long run.

Sustainable construction provides long-term value by creating lasting developments that are durable, energy-efficient, reduce consumption and waste, and minimise resource demand. This long-term ROI can be calculated and maximised with life cycle costing from the early stages of the project.  

What is life cycle costing in construction?

Life cycle costing (LCC) is a measuring technique used in the design and development of buildings. Life cycle costing analyses long-term costs and value by looking at the project from its lifetime–including the initial build costs and the post-construction operational costs.

Because it looks at the entire lifespan of a project, life cycle costing provides a more comprehensive insight into the costs, savings, and ROI of a project.

Life cycle costing is a key element in maximising a project’s return on investment It is increasingly playing a part in the sustainability agenda by ensuring that projects have a sustainable and longer life cycle through factors like self-sufficiency, energy-efficiency, durability, less maintenance, and risk reduction.

How quantity surveyors can help with sustainable construction

Quantity surveyors are heavily involved with building design and construction, and as such, they have a key role to play in the overall sustainability of the built environment.

A quantity surveyor’s schedule of materials will consider the cost, sustainability, and long-term value of materials.

Life-cycle costing is usually carried out by a qualified quantity surveyor – a specialist in methods of measurement to estimate and manage costs for construction projects.

Life cycle costing is part of the BREEAM assessment – the world’s leading science-based suite of validation and certification systems for a sustainable built environment.

How Evolution5 can help you

At Evolution5 we are passionate about protecting and preserving our planet by helping to deliver sustainable and profitable projects for our construction industry clients.  

By applying our specialist construction management knowledge, we can help you maximise your project’s sustainability and return on investment.

We can appoint a dedicated quantity surveyor from our skilled and highly experienced team with expertise in sustainability, life cycle costing, and ROI to your project.  

As a Chartered Building Consultancy (CIOB) and RICS-regulated firm, you have the assurance that you are engaging a reputable company that you can trust and rely on.

Evolution5 is a professional consultancy offering project management, construction management, employer’s agent, and contract administration services for projects across London and the South East.

If you have a construction project and want to explore how the team can help you, click the below button or call 023 8040 5073.