The second day of Build2Perform LIVE 2024 at ExCeL London proved to be just as impactful as the first, with a dynamic programme that covered key developments, challenges, and opportunities within the building services industry. CIBSE’s President Elect, Vince Arnold, kicked off the day with a keynote address that provided valuable insights into the latest updates to Building Regulations, including the Building Safety Act, the Future Homes and Buildings Standard, and critical changes to fire safety protocols.
One of the day’s standout sessions focused on sustainable cooling, where experts discussed the importance of tackling overheating in buildings. This included the launch of the revised CIBSE TM59: Overheating risk in homes: a design stage methodology (2024), alongside the introduction of CIBSE’s new Weather Files based on UKCP18 Met Office weather projections. The session also explored how industry professionals can mitigate the impacts of cooling in a warming climate, helping to improve both energy efficiency and the sustainability of the built environment.
Another key session provided attendees with the latest updates on health, wellbeing, comfort, and safety in buildings. In collaboration with the UK Indoor Environments Group (UKIEG), the session offered valuable reflections on the importance of indoor air quality, the role of the Passivhaus Standard, and the integration of natural materials, biophilia, and regenerative design. Case studies and expert insights highlighted the growing role of health and wellbeing in building design, and the opportunities and challenges posed by evolving regulations and standards.
In the Domestic Retrofit Towards Net Zero session, experts shared progress in domestic retrofit guidance, showcasing project examples that aim to improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon footprints, and enhance the comfort and health of residents. This session underscored the importance of retrofitting existing homes to meet net-zero targets and addressed the practical challenges involved in upgrading older properties for energy efficiency.
The day also featured a thought-provoking discussion on Equity, Diversity & Inclusivity (EDI) in the building services industry. The session highlighted how equity, diversity, and inclusion are critical to the future of building design and workplace culture. The panel shared examples of good practices within the sector and offered practical actions that attendees could take to implement EDI principles in their own work and organisations.
As the event continued, the second and last day of Build2Perform LIVE 2024 reinforced its position as an essential forum for professionals across the built environment, offering deep dives into sustainability, regulatory changes, and the evolving landscape of building services. With every session, CIBSE continues to lead the conversation on shaping a more sustainable, inclusive, and resilient built environment.