How can building services benchmark and measure their low carbon impact and value?

2 Use standardised frameworks and tools

To benchmark and measure your low carbon impact and value, you need to use reliable and consistent frameworks and tools that are aligned with your objectives and criteria. For example, you can use the Building Services Research and Information Association (BSRIA) Low Carbon Framework, which provides guidance and best practices for low carbon design, construction, operation, and maintenance of building services. You can also use the BSRIA Soft Landings Framework, which helps you deliver better outcomes for your clients and end-users through a smooth transition from design to operation. Additionally, you can use the BSRIA Carbon Calculator, which helps you estimate and compare the embodied and operational carbon emissions of different building services options.

3 Monitor and report your results

To measure your low carbon impact and value, you need to collect and analyse data from your building services systems and processes. You can use various tools and techniques to monitor and report your results, such as smart meters, sensors, dashboards, audits, surveys, or feedback. You should also use standardised reporting formats and protocols, such as the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), or the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards, to communicate your results to your stakeholders and demonstrate your transparency and accountability.

4 Learn and improve from your findings

To benchmark and measure your low carbon impact and value, you need to use your findings to identify your strengths and weaknesses, and to implement actions to improve your performance. You can use various methods and tools to learn and improve from your findings, such as benchmarking, gap analysis, action planning, or continuous improvement cycles. You should also share your findings and best practices with your peers and industry partners, and seek feedback and collaboration to foster innovation and excellence.

5 Evaluate your value proposition

To measure your low carbon impact and value, you need to evaluate how your building services contribute to the value proposition of your projects and clients. You can use various tools and methods to evaluate your value proposition, such as value engineering, life cycle costing, return on investment, or social return on investment. You should also consider the wider benefits and impacts of your building services on the environment, society, and economy, and how they align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) or other relevant frameworks.

6 Promote your achievements and recognition

To measure your low carbon impact and value, you need to promote your achievements and recognition to your clients, end-users, and the market. You can use various tools and methods to promote your achievements and recognition, such as certifications, awards, ratings, or case studies. You should also use effective communication channels and strategies, such as websites, social media, newsletters, or events, to showcase your achievements and recognition, and to build your reputation and credibility as a low carbon building services provider.