When I sat down with Emily Harper, a seasoned LCA & BREEAM consultant, I was eager to delve into the intricacies of her role, particularly how she manages the demands of the job while working remotely. As we settled into our virtual meeting, her enthusiasm for her work was immediately evident, and I was soon drawn into her world of sustainability and construction consultancy.
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Emily, who has been with her current consultancy firm for over five years, shared how her journey into this field began. “I was always fascinated by sustainable building practices and the impact they could have on our environment. My background in environmental science naturally led me to explore roles where I could make a tangible difference,” she explained. Her passion has translated into a successful career, providing high-quality energy and sustainability advice and assessments to some of the top UK housebuilders and developers.
One of the pivotal aspects of Emily’s role is producing whole-life carbon assessments using One Click LCA software. “It’s a tool that really allows us to dive deep into the carbon footprint of a building throughout its lifecycle,” she noted. “The challenge and the reward lie in identifying areas where we can make impactful sustainability improvements.”
Emily also touched upon the importance of delivering the LCA service for both domestic and non-domestic buildings. “Each project is unique, with its own set of challenges and opportunities,” she said. “The key is to approach each one with a fresh perspective, ensuring we maintain high standards and professionalism in our delivery.”
A major part of her responsibility is supporting the growth of the LCA service. This involves not only refining existing processes but also exploring innovative approaches to sustainability in construction. “We are constantly learning and adapting,” Emily emphasised. “The field of sustainability is always evolving, and it’s crucial to stay ahead of the curve to offer the best possible service to our clients.”
Having experience with BREEAM accreditation is a significant feather in her cap. Emily explained how this experience underpins much of her work. “BREEAM is a leading sustainability assessment method, and having that accreditation allows us to provide more comprehensive advice to our clients,” she said. “It’s about ensuring that every building we assess meets the highest standards of environmental performance.”
One of the more preferable but not essential aspects of her role is leading a team. Emily has found that leadership within this context is as much about guidance as it is about collaboration. “It’s about nurturing talent and encouraging a team environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute,” she said. “Remote work has its challenges, but it also opens up unique opportunities for team dynamics and creativity.”
Remote working, Emily mentioned, is a double-edged sword. It offers flexibility and a better work-life balance, but it also demands a high level of discipline and organisation. “The flexibility is fantastic,” she admitted. “I can set my own schedule and work in an environment that suits me. But it means you have to be proactive about communication and ensuring that the team stays connected and motivated.”
Her consultancy firm offers a supportive environment, with benefits like 25 days of annual leave, a discretionary bonus, flexible hours, and sociable staff events. “The company’s commitment to a healthy and happy team is something I really appreciate,” Emily shared. “It’s crucial to have that support, especially when working remotely.”
As our conversation drew to a close, Emily reflected on the future of sustainability consultancy. “There’s a growing awareness and demand for sustainable practices in construction,” she said, her voice filled with optimism. “It’s an exciting time to be in this field, and I’m eager to see how we can continue to drive positive change.”
Listening to Emily, it became clear that her role as an LCA & BREEAM consultant is more than just a job; it’s a vocation driven by a genuine desire to make a difference. Her story is a testament to the impact that dedicated professionals can have in steering the construction and property industries towards a more sustainable future.
Through Emily’s experiences, we gain a deeper understanding of the essential advice and assessments that shape our built environment. Her insights offer valuable lessons for anyone interested in the intersection of sustainability and construction, proving that with passion and expertise, positive change is not only possible but imperative.
Tobiasz Karcz
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