Sustainable Development Goals

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

At UCEM, we take direct action to combat poverty and support those in need. This could range from repurposing old laptops and giving them to staff for their children’s education to donating to charities/ non-profit organisations. We also provide financial support to students, allowing for equal opportunities to access education. Some examples of this include the following:

• New student bursary scheme
• Redundancy support scheme
• Principal’s discretionary fund
• #BEReady bursary
• Postgraduate scholarship scheme

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• MAN4POM – People and Organisational Management
• BSU5PCO – Planning and Conservation
• PLN5POL – Planning Practice and Policy

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

At UCEM, we are dedicated to advancing a supportive environment that promotes physical and mental well-being of both our staff and students.

Some examples include:

• A team of trained mental health first aiders
• A comprehensive mental health strategy
• Providing our staff with access to SilverCloud, a mental health platform with a range of resources
• A dedicated disability and wellbeing team of specialists who offer guidance, support, and resources
• A robust safeguarding policy in place to ensure a secure and supportive environment for the wellbeing and safety of our students, staff, and the broader community

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• LAW4LST – Law for the Built Environment
• LAW4RFW – Introduction to Regulatory Frameworks
• MAN4POM – People and Organisational Management
• TEC4DIG – Digital Technologies
• BSU5PCO – Planning and Conservation
• CON5TE3 – Construction Technology 3
• DEV5DPA – Development Process and Appraisal
• LAW5PRL – Property Law
• QSP5ETC – Estimating and Tendering
• TEC5STR – Building Structures
• BCU6IDP – Integrated Design Project
• BSU6PSP – Professional Surveying Practice
• MAN6CPM – Commercial Property Management
• MAN6MMA – Maintenance Management
• PMA6CPM – Construction Project Management
• PRJ6IMP – Integrated Management Project
• PLN5POL – Planning Practice and Policy

The following modules significantly or substantially relate to this SDG:

• CON4TE1 – Construction Technology 1
• CON4TE2 – Construction Technology 2
• DES5DES – Design and Environmental Science
• BSU6BPA – Building Pathology

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

UCEM continuously strives to provide an exceptional learning experience for students. To ensure quality education, UCEM holds accreditation by SOS-UK for Responsible Futures. This reflects our dedication integrating sustainability and social responsibility into our curriculum.

Our e-Library serves as a cornerstone of quality education at UCEM. It offers a vast array of high-quality learning materials, including research papers, textbooks, and industry publications.

This year, UCEM has introduced the new MSc Innovation in Sustainable Built Environments. The programme exemplifies our commitment to providing an innovative programme that addresses the contemporary challenges that plague the built environment.

We offer a comprehensive array of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses, enabling professionals to enhance and cater to diverse career trajectories.

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• MAN4POM – People and Organisational Management
• SMA5CSM – Construction Site Management
• MAN6CPM – Commercial Property Management
• MAN6MMA – Maintenance Management
• PRJ6IMP – Integrated Management Project
• PLN5POL – Planning Practice and Policy

The following modules significantly or substantially relate to this SDG:

• PRJ6WRA – Workbased Research Project

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

Creating an inclusive and equitable environment for all our staff and students is very important to UCEM.

To promote gender equality, we have established an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy, setting out our aims for equal opportunities and fair treatment for individuals regardless of gender. To drive gender equality initiatives, UCEM has a designated Lead Trustee for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion – Misa Von Tunzelman.

UCEM has also secured gender equality research grants to support gender-related studies, encouraging insightful contributions to the discourse on achieving gender equality.

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• CON4TE1 – Construction Technology 1
• MAN4POM – People and Organisational Management
• QSP5CPR – Contract Administration and Practice
• TEC5STR – Building Structures
• MAN6CMC – Commercial Management in Construction
• MAN6MMA – Maintenance Management
• PRJ6IMP – Integrated Management Project
• PRJ6WRA – Work-based Research Project

The following modules significantly or substantially relate to this SDG:

• SMA5CSM – Construction Site Management
• PMA6CPM – Construction Project Management

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

UCEM has implemented a comprehensive Water Management Policy that outlines our commitment to efficient water usage and maintenance. This policy includes regular drain clearance and L8 testing to uphold the highest standards of water quality and safety.

Our Horizons office is equipped with water-saving systems such as PIR sensors, dual flush controls, timers in urinals, and zip taps to minimise water waste throughout our facilities.

We actively participate in toilet twinning initiatives, which support the construction of clean and safe sanitation facilities in areas lacking access to proper sanitation. We also promote the installation of Leaksafe systems to prevent water leakage and minimise water loss.

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• CON4TE2 – Construction Technology 2
• MAN4POM – People and Organisational Management
• BSU5PCO – Planning and Conservation
• DEV5DPA – Development Process and Appraisal
• QSP5DEC/ BEC Design Economics and Cost Planning
• QSP5ETC – Estimating and Tendering
• SMA5CSM – Construction Site Management
• MAN6CPM – Commercial Property Management
• MAN6MMA – Maintenance Management
• PRJ6IMP – Integrated Management Project
• PLN5POL – Planning Practice and Policy

The following modules significantly or substantially relate to this SDG:

• CON4TE1 – Construction Technology 1

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

Sustainable energy practices are a priority for our organisation so we can reduce our environmental impact and promote the transition to clean energy sources.

To achieve this, we purchase ‘green’ energy from renewable sources. We have also installed photovoltaic (PV) panels on Horizons’ roof, harnessing solar energy to generate clean electricity for our operations. This on-site renewable energy production helps to reduce carbon footprint and increase the share of clean energy in our energy usage.

UCEM runs ‘switch off’ campaigns to raise awareness and encourage staff to manage energy use responsibly, both at home and in the building. These campaigns reduce energy consumption and promotes energy efficiency.

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• MAN4POM – People and Organisational Management
• BSU5PCC – Project and Cost Control
• DEV5DPA – Development Process and Appraisal
• LAW5PRL – Property Law
• QSP5DEC/ BEC – Design Economics and Cost Planning
• SMA5CSM – Construction Site Management
• VAL5TFM – Valuation – The Five Methods
• BSU6BPA – Building Pathology
• MAN6MMA – Maintenance Management
• PMA6CPM – Construction Project Management
• PRJ6IMP – Integrated Management Project
• PLN5POL – Planning Practice and Policy

The following modules significantly or substantially relate to this SDG:

• CON4TE1 – Construction Technology 1
• CON4TE2 – Construction Technology 2
• BSU5PCO – Planning and Conservation
• QSP5ETC – Estimating and Tendering
• MAN6CPM – Commercial Property Management

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

To support this goal, UCEM has collaborated with Building People, a social enterprise that aims to connect people to opportunities across the built environment, enabling employers to engage with a more diverse range of talent.

UCEM has created an Access and Participation Plan. This plan reflects our dedication to widening access to education and increasing participation by providing inclusive and accessible learning opportunities. Through this commitment, we enable students from diverse backgrounds to achieve their potential and develop successful careers.

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• CON4TE1 – Construction Technology 1
• BSU5PCO – Planning and Conservation
• DEV5DPA – Development Process and Appraisal
• TEC5STR – Building Structures
• PMA6CPM – Construction Project Management
• QSP6QSP – Professional Quantity Surveying Practice
• VAL6APP – Applied Valuation

The following modules significantly or substantially relate to this SDG:

• LAW4RFW – Introduction to Regulatory Frameworks
• MAN4POM – People and Organisational Management
• QSP5ETC – Estimating and Tendering
• SMA5CSM – Construction Site Management
• INV6IAP – Investment Appraisal and Portfolio Management
• MAN6CMC – Commercial Management in Construction
• PLN5POL – Planning Practice and Policy

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

UCEM has developed a clear sustainability strategy as part of our Globe initiative. This strategy outlines our commitment to a wholistic approach to sustainability, integrating it at every level of our organisation.  Globe also recognises the importance of fostering innovation within the built environment sector and promoting sustainable practices.

Through Globe we have created a new degree, MSc Innovation in Sustainable Built Environments. This programme aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to drive sustainable innovation within the industry.

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• CON4TE2 – Construction Technology 2
• MAN4POM – People and Organisational Management
• BCU5CON – Building Control
• BSU5PCC – Project and Cost Control
• CON5TE3 – Construction Technology 3
• DEV5DPA – Development Process and Appraisal
• QSP5CPR – Contract Administration and Practice
• BSU6PSP – Professional Surveying Practice
• MAN6CMC – Commercial Management in Construction
• MAN6CPM – Commercial Property Management
• QSP6QSP – Professional Quantity Surveying Practice

The following modules significantly or substantially relate to this SDG:

• CON4TE1 – Construction Technology 1
• LAW4RFW – Introduction to Regulatory Frameworks
• TEC4DIG – Digital Technologies
• BSU5PCO – Planning and Conservation
• QSP5DEC/ BEC – Design Economics and Cost Planning
• QSP5ETC – Estimating and Tendering
• SMA5CSM – Construction Site Management
• TEC5STR – Building Structures
• MAN6MMA – Maintenance Management
• PMA6CPM – Construction Project Management
• PRJ6IMP – Integrated Management Project
• PLN5POL – Planning Practice and Policy

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

Our Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) strategy spans from 2020 to 2025. This long-term strategy outlines our commitment and objectives for enhancing accessibility, openness, and inclusivity within our institution. It serves as a roadmap to ensure that EDI principles are embedded in all aspects of our operations.

UCEM also has designated student ambassadors who collaborate with our outreach and inclusion lead. These ambassadors actively engage with students from diverse backgrounds, helping us understand different viewpoints and perspectives, allowing us to continuously improve as an institution.

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• CON4TE1 – Construction Technology 1
• MAN4POM – People and Organisational Management
• BSU5PCO – Planning and Conservation
• QSP5CPR – Contract Administration and Practice
• QSP5ETC – Estimating and Tendering
• SMA5CSM – Construction Site Management
• TEC5STR – Building Structures
• MAN6CPM – Commercial Property Management
• MAN6MMA – Maintenance Management
• PRJ6IMP – Integrated Management Project
• PLN5POL – Planning Practice and Policy
• QSP6QSP – Professional Quantity Surveying Practice

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

UCEM is committed to promoting sustainable practices and communities. To achieve this, we engage in local outreach initiatives, including:

• Being an integral part of the Reading Climate Festival by offering free geography and sustainability workshops to local schools to provide students with sustainability knowledge and awareness
• Providing a free webinar to local businesses as a part of our Building Perspectives series, guiding them on how to integrate sustainability into their operations

A Green Travel Plan has been implemented to encourage sustainable commuting among our staff. By promoting alternatives, we aim to reduce our combined carbon emissions and contribute to a greener environment.

Our Online Academy offers sustainable CPD courses. These provide professionals in the built environment sector with the knowledge and skills necessary to incorporate sustainable practices into their work.

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• CON4TE2 – Construction Technology 2
• MAN4POM – People and Organisational Management
• DES5DES – Design and Environmental Science
• ECO5BEC – Economics for the Built Environment
• QSP5DEC/ BEC – Design Economics and Cost Planning
• QSP5MQC – Measurement and Quant of Cons Work
• SMA5CSM – Construction Site Management
• TEC5STR – Building Structures
• VAL5TFM – Valuation – The Five Methods
• BSU6BSP – Building Surveying Practice
• INV6IAP – Investment Appraisal and Portfolio Management
• LAW6CON – Construction Law
• VAL6APP – Applied Valuation

The following modules significantly or substantially relate to this SDG:

• LAW4RFW – Introduction to Regulatory Frameworks
• TEC4DIG – Digital Technologies
• BCU5CON – Building Control
• BSU5PCC – Project and Cost Control
• BSU5PCO – Planning and Conservation
• DEV5DPA – Development Process and Appraisal
• QSP5CPR – Contract Administration and Practice
• QSP5ETC – Estimating and Tendering
• BCU6FSA – Fire Safety
• BCU6IDP – Integrated Design Project
• BSU6BPA – Building Pathology
• MAN6CPM – Commercial Property Management
• PMA6CPM – Construction Project Management
• PLN5POL – Planning Practice and Policy
• VAL6STV – Statutory Valuations

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

UCEM recognises the importance of promoting sustainable practices to minimise our environmental impact and encourage resource management. Our facilities team actively monitor and set targets to reduce our consumption of key environmental factors and scarce resources. We prioritise sustainable practices in areas such as energy, waste, paper, water, and travel.

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• LAW4RFW – Introduction to Regulatory Frameworks
• BCU5CON – Building Control
• BSU5PCC – Project and Cost Control
• BSU5PCO – Planning and Conservation
• CON5TE3 – Construction Technology 3
• ECO5BEC – Economics for the Built Environment
• QSP5CPR – Contract Administration and Practice
• QSP5DEC/ BEC – Design Economics and Cost Planning
• TEC5STR – Building Structures
• BSU6BPA – Building Pathology
• BSU6PSP – Professional Surveying Practice
• PLN5POL – Planning Practice and Policy

The following modules significantly or substantially relate to this SDG:

• CON4TE1 – Construction Technology 1
• CON4TE2 – Construction Technology 2
• MAN4POM – People and Organisational Management
• DEV5DPA – Development Process and Appraisal
• QSP5ETC – Estimating and Tendering
• SMA5CSM – Construction Site Management
• MAN6CPM – Commercial Property Management
• MAN6MMA – Maintenance Management
• PMA6CPM – Construction Project Management
• PRJ6IMP – Integrated Management Project

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

UCEM acknowledges the urgent need to address climate change and how we need to act now to mitigate its impact.

As a signatory of the Carbon Zero Climate Plan by Construction Industry Council (CIC), UCEM is dedicated to reducing its carbon emissions. We are also actively working towards achieving net-zero emissions as part of our ISO14001 efforts.

To guide our sustainability journey, UCEM is in the process of developing a comprehensive net-zero roadmap, outlining our strategies, targets, and actions to achieve carbon-neutrality.

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• MAN4POM – People and Organisational Management
• TEC4DIG – Digital Technologies
• BCU5CON – Building Control
• DEV5DPA – Development Process and Appraisal
• QSP5CPR – Contract Administration and Practice
• VAL5VCP – Valuation Context and Principles
• VAL5TFM – Valuation – The Five Methods
• BCU6IDP – Integrated Design Project
• BSU6BPA – Building Pathology
• BSU6BSP – Building Surveying Practice
• MAN6CMC – Commercial Management in Construction
• MAN6MMA – Maintenance Management
• PRJ6IMP – Integrated Management Project
• VAL6APP – Applied Valuation

The following modules significantly or substantially relate to this SDG:

• CON4TE1 – Construction Technology 1
• CON4TE2 – Construction Technology 2
• LAW4RFW – Introduction to Regulatory Frameworks
• BSU5PCO – Planning and Conservation
• QSP5ETC – Estimating and Tendering
• SMA5CSM – Construction Site Management
• PMA6CPM – Construction Project Management
• PLN5POL – Planning Practice and Policy

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

At UCEM, we have measures put in place to protect and preserve marine ecosystems and we take steps where we can to contribute to this goal.

One way we promote sustainable practices is by providing food provenance in our menus. This allows us to know where food was grown, caught, or raised, meaning we are able to make informed and sustainable choices when it comes to our food.

UCEM also takes small but meaningful actions to support life below water. For instance, we purchase marine-friendly wine for UCEM events and as gifts/ hospitality use.

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• BSU6BSP – Building Surveying Practice

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

To support this SDG, UCEM only uses Fairtrade and Rainforest Alliance products. By choosing these certified products, we contribute to the conservation of biodiversity, protection of forests, and improvement of livelihoods for local communities.

We are also dedicated to reducing our environmental impact by only using recycled and Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified paper in our operations. UCEM has a Print 1 Plant 1 initiative with our external printer, demonstrating our commitment to supporting the reforestation efforts.

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• CON4TE1 – Construction Technology 1
• CON4TE2 – Construction Technology 2
• MAN4POM – People and Organisational Management
• BSU5PCC – Project and Cost Control
• BSU5PCO – Planning and Conservation
• QSP5DEC/ BEC – Design Economics and Cost Planning
• MAN6CMC – Commercial Management in Construction

The following modules significantly or substantially relate to this SDG:

• BCU5CON – Building Control
• DEV5DPA – Development Process and Appraisal
• QSP5ETC – Estimating and Tendering
• SMA5CSM – Construction Site Management
• PMA6CPM – Construction Project Management

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

UCEM is committed to upholding the principles of good governance and fostering a culture of peace and justice. This commitment has been formally documented as an integral part of our Globe initiative, and it can be located in our Sustainability Strategy.

As a part of our commitment, UCEM has a Board of Trustees and a wider governance structure in place. These institutions ensure transparency, accountability, and ethical decision-making, promoting a strong foundation for our organisation.

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• MAN4POM – People and Organisational Management
• TEC4DIG – Digital Technologies
• BSU5PCO – Planning and Conservation
• DEV5DPA – Development Process and Appraisal
• ECO5BEC – Economics for the Built Environment
• QSP5ETC – Estimating and Tendering
• VAL5VCP – Valuation Context and Principles
• VAL5TFM – Valuation – The Five Methods
• BSU6BSP – Building Surveying Practice
• LAW6CON – Construction Law
• MAN6CMC – Commercial Management in Construction
• MAN6MMA – Maintenance Management
• PRJ6IMP – Integrated Management Project
• QSP6QSP – Professional Quantity Surveying Practice
• VAL6APP – Applied Valuation

The following modules significantly or substantially relate to this SDG:

• CON5TE3 – Construction Technology 3
• QSP5CPR – Contract Administration and Practice
• BSU6PSP – Professional Surveying Practice
• PLN5POL – Planning Practice and Policy
• PRJ6WRA – Workbased Research Project

Summary of significance of this goal to UCEM:

UCEM understands the importance of collaboration and partnership in achieving sustainable development.

To foster partnerships, UCEM’s Business Development Team works with the industry and employers. An example of this is the ‘INSPIRE’ series – themed sessions that enable collaboration between influential stakeholders and to foster dialogue on meeting sustainability goals, sharing innovative ideas and highlighting successful practices.

UCEM has also appointed Student Officers for Sustainability who champion the learner voice and collaborate with staff to establish sustainability initiatives within our student community. Similarly, through our Alumni Lifelong Influencing Plan (ALIP), we maintain ongoing connections with our graduates to leverage their experiences and expertise for the benefit of current and future students.

The following modules somewhat relate to this SDG:

• CON4TE1 – Construction Technology 1
• LAW4RFW – Introduction to Regulatory Frameworks
• BCU5CON – Building Control
• DEV5DPA – Development Process and Appraisal
• QSP5CPR – Contract Administration and Practice
• QSP5ETC – Estimating and Tendering
• SMA5CSM – Construction Site Management
• TEC5STR – Building Structures
• MAN6CMC – Commercial Management in Construction
• MAN6CPM – Commercial Property Management
• MAN6MMA – Maintenance Management
• PMA6CPM – Construction Project Management
• PRJ6IMP – Integrated Management Project
• PRJ6WRA – Workbased Research Project
• QSP6QSP – Professional Quantity Surveying Practice

The following modules significantly or substantially relate to this SDG:

• MAN4POM – People and Organisational Management
• BSU5PCO – Planning and Conservation
• PLN5POL – Planning Practice and Policy