A new research programme focused on the impact the built environment has on wellbeing is being launched in partnership by BRE and publishers UBM Built Environment.
To initiate the programme, BRE and UBM have announced a research paper competition to bring together and showcase current research and understanding in this field. The authors of the two best papers will present their findings at a seminar at Ecobuild2014 in London in March.
Continuing improvement in building design, products and construction processes, along with post occupancy evaluation and user surveying is generating significant new data and knowledge from the growing active community of researchers and end-users across the supply-chain. But, this is showing that both positive and negative impacts can result, so further research is needed.
Building professionals are invited to submit papers detailing recent development projects and the positive and negative effects identified: for example, how high indoor CO2 levels may affect productivity, or how noise or pollution impact on communal outdoor space.
Submissions should cover building projects and research carried out within the last three years on commercial or domestic properties. Papers should not exceed 3000 words in total and must include a summary of:
the background and context in which the research was carried out
the methodology adopted
technical work completed
key outcomes/results obtained and conclusions drawn from the project
Previously published research papers are eligible for submission (please indicate the date and location of publication).
A panel of independent experts will select the best paper for a domestic and non-domestic building. Finalists will be informed by 21 February and invited to present their research during a seminar at Ecobuild 2014 that will inform future collaborative research projects. Following Ecobuild2014, all submitted papers will be published online via BRE’s forthcoming digital community platform.
Please send entries to wellbeingpaper@bre.co.uk by 14 February 2014.
