This workshop pursues two intertwined main objectives. On the one hand, it sheds light on achievements in the three months since our last workshop in Amman. On the other hand, it looks at the next steps – personally and as part of the wider sustainable construction network. What are the lessons learnt then? What could be simple, yet effective management tools to promote sustainable construction? And, more generally, what strategies could be devised in the areas of training of trainers, training of managers, and certification of sustainability training?
The workshop was led by EMA board member Ute Pfeifer, coach and architect. As a former owner of a planning office, Ms. Pfeifer herself worked closely on the implementation of projects that contribute to the spread of sustainability. She began by noting that sustainability is not just a standard to be achieved, but a philosophy and a way of thinking that encompasses three main elements: Ecology, Society and Economy.
Ms. Pfeifer outlined a path to greater sustainability by addressing personal motivations. After all, sustainability is timeless and requires a personal commitment if we want to see measurable change. Afterwards, the workshop leader and other participants presented their own motivations.
An open exchange took place in which the participants brought different aspects to sustainability in the building sector. As each: works in a different setting, some discussed the incentives offered by their governments, others presented their projects and suggested collaboration on future projects. Architect Matthias Pfeifer looked optimistically at the currents of thought and policy on sustainability. He argued that states and individuals would spend money anyway. But now, he said, it is important to ask what we use the capital for.
Finally, Ms. Pfeifer dealt with the practical side of achieving self-set goals by presenting an effective strategy for achieving goals. According to this, goals must be SMART, i.e., strategic, measurable, attractive, relevant, and time-bound (“time-based”). However, Ms. Pfeifer emphasized that we should not stop at thinking about our goals. Instead, they should be even SMARTER, which includes the ratings “ethical” and reporting.
When asked about concrete next steps, some project ideas crystallized as points of connection to the project. The task now is to make these SMARTER as well.
| Welcome & Opening
Jens Kutscher, Head of Research & Communication, EMA |
Workshop Lead: Eng. Ute Pfeifer, Coach, PfeiferINTERCOACH & Member of the Executive Board, EMA |
| Closing Remarks & Conclusion
Jens Kutscher, Head of Research & Communication, EMA |