Teaching renewable energy and the sustainable building network

Buildings consume a large fraction of most nations' energy budgets. It is thus very important to promote conservation in energy use and the substitution of renewables for conventional fuels, where possible in this sector. Students undertaking courses leading to careers as professionals in the construction industry must be taught about energy and environment considerations. Further, this teaching must have regard to the multi-disciplinary and integrated nature of building design and construction. In addition to improving the education of students, teaching staff who are non-energy/ environment specialists require help in developing their knowledge and so help to optimise impact of the subject. It is also necessary for lecturers to be made familiar with the most up-to-date teaching resources and techniques. Some efforts have been devoted to the development of syllabus and curriculum items for construction related courses. The Sustainable Building Network has recently been established in the UK to co-ordinate a range of activities in this field.