Property developers are responsible for the sustainability of their development projects. They conceptualize, define and structure the project, coordinate the development process, provide the project parameters, and intermediate contact between the various project participants.
Sustainability strategies provide developers a framework to drive performance. Sustainable design and construction focuses on sustainable development from the planning stage through to project implementation. New sustainable hotel buildings and renovations are designed based on sustainable development guidelines.
To initiate the sustainable development process, the most appropriate site for the project is selected, the stakeholders in the local community are consulted, an environmental impact assessment is conducted, and a project design brief and a project implementation plan (PIP) are prepared.
The design process requires that everyone who is involved in the construction and design, operation and use of the property to communicate and collaborate in order to understand the issues and concerns of all stakeholders. Then the developer defines the project based on the applicable sustainability principles.
Property development projects are guided to make sustainable decisions during project construction. These include sustainable site selection, sustainable design criteria, the use of environmentally friendly construction materials and machines, and on-site operating practices.
Sustainability-specific requirements for subcontractors cover any sustainability requirements that a developer has in its contracts with subcontractors. They include specification and use of sustainable materials, systems, processes and operating practices.
Sustainable procurement encourages, facilitates or requires reduced consumption of goods within the building or premises and/or the sourcing of sustainable or ethical goods. Measures must be in place to minimize the negative impact of procurement on the community and the environment.
Sustainable operational design considers energy, water, waste, materials, noise, air quality, emissions and hazardous substances used or created in the operation of the hotel. A hotel building designed in compliance with sustainability principles should run at optimal operational efficiency.