David Cowans

The construction business is a major influence on the landscape of our society…

Attention by construction companies, to the quality of design, materials and the impact on peoples’ lives of the built environment, are crucial responsibilities. What they build will be an enduring statement of the quality of their contribution to the economy and to society as a whole. At the same time, companies that can respond to an increasingly environmentally and socially aware customer base, will become more attractive as a partner of choice and increasing bid success is an obvious reward.

There is increasing evidence from investor organisations, Government and major clients, that a real commitment to sustainability in all its forms whether it be waste reduction, energy efficiency or sustainable procurement policies for materials, are preferred as a way of doing business. Wider societal reputation requires that to maintain the cutting edge as a contractor of choice, a real commitment is required to understand the impact of construction work to people in local communities. Companies that get a reputation for building people friendly buildings, are likely to attract more business.

I have been impressed by the degree to which Carillion are prepared to test themselves, to try and find the best commercial sustainable approaches to their work which have the most beneficial impact for local communities and society as a whole. These are complex issues but those organisations who come to the conclusion that this is a direction they must follow and attempt to tackle the practicalities of this direction, are those who will steal a march on their competitors.