The Future of Building Green with Chris Trunkfield, Senior Design Executive at Moda
In the first episode of the new series of The Building Sustainably Podcast, we are joined by Chris Trunkfield from Moda Living to discuss the crucial role of ESG strategies in driving sustainable development.
Episode overview
Welcome to the new season of The Building Sustainably Podcast.
In our first episode, Chris Trunkfield from Moda Living joins Ben Stockdale to discuss the critical role of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategies in sustainable development. With an emphasis on community well-being as well as environmental impact, Moda Living is at the forefront of integrating sustainability into the construction industry, particularly in the Build-to-Rent (BTR) sector. Chris shares insights into Moda's approach to sustainability, the importance of data-driven strategies environmental trends shaping the future of ESG in construction.
Learn about Moda Living's innovative projects in Birmingham, including the Mercian Building, Great Charles Street, and New Garden Square, as we discover how they are setting new standards for sustainable development.
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Meet Chris Trunkfield
In his role, Chris looks after design across all of Moda's projects and portfolios. An architect by trade, he now helps drive the company's ESG standards and agenda within the business. Before this, Chris was a Project Architect at SimpsonHaugh, an RIBA Part II Architectural Assistant at Sixtwo Architects, and an RIBA Part I Architectural Assistant at Blackett-Ord Conservation Architecture and Engineering.
Key highlights
11:26 - 16:10 - Gamifying Energy Efficiency in Residential Living - Moda collects vast data on how residents interact with its buildings to enhance sustainability. From the initial design phases to the operational stages, the company's TM54 assessment models every aspect of energy use. With sub-metering in place, Moda monitors real-time usage, comparing expected performance with actual data to minimise the performance gap. Engaging residents through the Utopi app, Moda uses gamification and targeted campaigns to educate and encourage energy-efficiency behaviours.
16:10 - 21:55 - Empowering Communities Through Local Recruitment and Training - Another significant point in Moda's ESG strategy focuses on local recruitment and employee training in creating a sustainable construction industry. Collaborating closely with contractors like Sisk, the company has integrated specific requirements into its projects. Despite challenges in quantifying social value, initiatives like apprenticeships and local hires create lasting impact.
28:30 - 35:15 - Future-Proofing Residential Development - Looking ahead, the focus on ESG strategies in residential development is shifting towards enhancing health and well-being. As we move forward, creating high-quality living spaces with plenty of natural light, excellent acoustics, and greenery will be key. It's about simplifying and fostering community through thoughtful amenities rather than gimmicks like golf simulators. Flexibility in workspace design post-COVID and a future focus on regulating embodied carbon is also vital.
