From Policy to Practice: What to Watch at UKREiiF 2025

With UKREiiF 2025 just around the corner, we caught up with our Sustainability Consultant, Sophia Cressey, as she prepares to attend for the third year running. With topics such as biodiversity net gain and the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard (UKNZCBS) set to shape the agenda, Sophia shares what she’s looking forward to, the conversations likely to dominate, and her advice for first-time attendees.

This is your third time attending UKREiiF, what are you most looking forward to this year?

It’s always a brilliant event for connecting with people from across the industry, but I’m particularly looking forward to the talks this year. There’s a strong line-up of sessions covering everything from the circular economy and biodiversity net gain, to ESG and updates on the Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard (UKNZCBS). What makes UKREiiF unique is the range of perspectives it brings together. It’s a space where everyone can have honest conversations and discuss crucial topics.

What key sustainability themes do you expect to dominate discussions in 2025?

Net zero continues to be at the forefront, especially with the release of the latest Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard (UKNZCBS) last September. I expect this to be a major talking point, particularly in regards to how different frameworks, such as BREEAM and local planning policies, intend to align with it. The recent pilot version of BREEAM New Construction Version 7 will also be of interest. It introduces updates around operational energy, embodied carbon, and other performance metrics, which will inevitably shape design strategies going forward. I’m also keen to hear how NHS estates are progressing with their decarbonisation goals, especially now that we’re in the second year since the launch of the NHS Net Zero Carbon Coordinator role, a role that’s had a real impact across our own healthcare projects.

Why do you think UKREiiF is so valuable for sustainability professionals?

Events like UKREiiF create an open forum to explore new ideas and learn from others across the industry. With professionals from all corners of the country and across sectors, you get access to a diverse pool of knowledge, which helps you keep up to speed with new developments, policy shifts, and upcoming schemes. For me, it’s a chance to step back from day-to-day project work and think more strategically about where the industry is heading.

Any advice for someone attending UKREiiF for the first time?

Make the most of it! Attend talks from sectors outside your own to get fresh perspectives, and don’t overlook the fringe events, they’re a great way to meet people in a more relaxed setting. It can be a busy few days, but the opportunities to learn, connect and collaborate make it hugely worthwhile.

Meet the rest of the UKREiiF team and book in a chat now.