Free online sustainability support for £117bn FM and services industry

Facilities management (FM) and services sector suppliers, contractors and clients will get a free resource to help them to boost their sustainability credentials in January 2015.


The new online service is being launched by the award-winning Supply Chain Sustainability School. Members will be able to access e-learning modules and track their progress, get involved in supplier development days, and participate in groups focusing on wider issues, such as construction, infrastructure and research.

“The School will offer a free support resource – built upon responsive, innovative and sustainable best practice – to help that supply chain meet the requirements of clients, managing agents, occupiers, users, regulators, other stakeholders and their wider communities,” said David Picton, chair of the school’s FM leadership group and Carillion chief executive.

Cofely UK, Interserve Plc and Emcor UK are set to be launch partners for the service, which aims to persuade more FM suppliers to develop their sustainability knowledge, disseminate new sustainability learning materials, and drive better sustainability performance within the sector.

Emcor’s chief executive, Keith Chanter stated: “Emcor UK is delighted to join the FM Supply Chain School as a launch partner and work with the industry to nurture a more sustainable approach to managing and delivering supply chain solutions for the built environment.”

Expanding on success
Launched in 2012, the Supply Chain Sustainability School already has more than 5,000 members. Previously, it has focused on improving sustainability within the construction industry, working with top UK contractors such as Carillion, BAM and Skanska.

The school’s expansion recognises the growth of the FM market, which is expected to be worth more than £117bn by 2017, as well as the diverse challenges faced by businesses within the industry when it comes to sustainability.

According to Picton: “Environmental, social and economic responsibilities have become key to any balanced, long-term growth, but the demands on the FM Services supply chain are complex, dynamic and pressurised.”

Ian Heptonstall, director of Action Sustainability, which delivers the school’s virtual learning, added: “The Supply Chain School has already delivered an immense step forward for sustainability in the construction sector. Now we want to help consolidate this by supporting FM, which plays such a central role in the sustainable management of assets throughout their lifetime.”

edie staff

Action inspires action. Stay ahead of the curve with sustainability and energy newsletters from edie

Subscribe