About the session

The UK building industry consumes millions of tonnes of timber a year. Whilst in the past the sources of this timber were entirely unregulated, today greater awareness of the significant environmental damage thoughtless timber specification can cause has led to the introduction of many different certification schemes - some good, some not so good.

Trainer Robert Borruso will demonstrate that experience has shown that just specifying ‘sustainable timber’ does not always lead to ‘sustainable timber’ being used.

The session explains what schemes are available, and where they can go wrong and explores ways of designing out the risk of unsustainable timber being used in the first place.

Robert will also look at the use of timber in cladding. With timber being an increasingly popular choice as a sustainable material cladding we'll explore the specific pitfalls associated with use.

About the trainer

Robert Borruso

Robert has studied to degree level both mechanical engineering and environmental science and has 10 years experience in both fields. This combination gives him an exceptional understanding of the issues associated with moving sustainable energy systems from the fringes to the mainstream of the construction industry, with a focus very much on delivering pragmatic and workable solutions.

Robert is currently working as an independent energy consultant with a client base ranging from small community groups to housing associations. He also has extensive experience in troubleshooting existing underperforming, renewable energy installations. He also occasionally writes on environmental issues in his own, often controversial, style.

Robert’s previous professional experience includes four years as a Product Specialist at Construction Resources Environmental Building Centre and as a Renewable Energy advisor at Sustainable Energy Action, both in London. He now lives in Scotland and is involved in a much more hands on approach with renewables.

The Futureproof initiative in the West of England region connects homeowners needing energy-saving refurbishments with builders skilled in sustainable construction. This session is offered FREE to builders and trades registered for training as Futureproof Associate Builders (FABs) For enquiries or to apply for FREE Futureproof training, visit www.futureproof.uk.net or email charlotte@greenregister.org.uk