Researchers uniting ‘fragmented construction sector’ win RIBA Scott Brownrigg Award for Sustainable Development

The RIBA has awarded the 2024 RIBA Scott Brownrigg Award for Sustainable Development to three researchers who are seeking to decarbonize the built environment by uniting a “fragmented construction sector.” Titled ‘Unlocking Indigenous Stone Construction in the UK: A Guide for Sustainable Sourcing,’ the proposal seeks to "uncover what is currently preventing more developers from using UK stone in construction and illustrate how its wider use, instead of imported alternatives, could significantly reduce carbon emissions and support rural communities.” 

The winning team comprises: Giulliana-Florela Giorgi (architect at Allies and Morrison, Associate Lecturer at Ravensbourne University London), Jenny Haines (Senior Structural Engineer at Webb Yates Engineers) and Matt Robb (Marketing and Media Manager for Stone Federation Great Britain). 

The project underscored the importance of engaging with architects, engineering, stonemasons, and quarry operators to further understand barriers to sourcing and using UK stone. Case studies, surveys, and site visits will also be conducted using part of the £10,000 awarded by the prize, which will be used to create an online platform complete with maps, diagrams, a report, and a short video on practical solutions to sourcing and using UK stone.