Six UK engineering firms have launched The Engineers Reuse Collective (tERC) – a not-for-profit group committed to accelerating reuse in the built environment to support the transition of the UK’s construction industry to net zero carbon.
The group has been founded by Buro Happold, Civic Engineers, Elliott Wood, Heyne Tillett Steel, Webb Yates Engineers and Whitby Wood, and is supported by The Institution of Structural Engineers. It will be led by Andy Yates, former director of Webb Yates Engineers.
The group’s objectives include: promoting and implementing reuse in the built environment through information sharing and positive engagement with stakeholders and the wider industry; actively demonstrating and sharing knowledge of effective solutions, overcoming barriers, success stories and lessons learnt; challenging, encouraging and championing its clients and those it works with to maximise the reuse of assets (buildings and materials) on its projects; and advocating and lobbying for faster change in the industry and influencing future policy.
In the coming months, the group will host cross-practice meetings and technical forums, and produce roadmaps, standards and technical resources to be adopted across the industry.
Yates said: “The climate crisis is here and as engineers we need to accelerate our actions to transition our built environment to zero carbon. Part of this is having open conversations to share our successes and challenges, as well as the more granular ‘nuts and bolts’ of how we reuse our existing assets. I am delighted to be part of this proactive, exciting and forward thinking collective of engineers who are passionate about making a positive change in the industry. ”
Gareth Atkinson, director at Civic Engineers, added: “Some of the most rewarding work I’ve been engaged in has been collaborating with fellow sustainably-minded professionals in the built environment to move the dial on issues like material reuse, circularity and net zero carbon. I’m really energised to be working with six brilliant engineering firms to progress this important agenda.”
Engineering practices who are interested in joining the group should email andy.yates@terc.org.uk.
