Blog | Elite Systems GB

Collaborative construction and constructive collaboration: sustainability is key

Written by Kelly Gabe | Nov 12, 2025 4:38:10 AM
 

Sustainability has changed the construction industry

An article on the MBPA website has sparked a discussion on changes in construction. We’re particularly interested in the shift towards sustainability and collaborative project delivery.

Across all types of construction projects, there is a greater focus on sustainability. We have noticed an increase in the number of enquiries specifying:

  • Solar panels (aka photovoltaic cells)
  • Green / living roofs
  • Occasional turbine use
  • Rainwater harvesting systems
  • Better-than-A EPC certification (which we have achieved)

Changes in legislation around sustainability is the main cause for change. Our design and production teams have changed materials, and our estimator prices renewable energy features more often.

How does sustainability affect partnerships?

Asking our commercial director Jason Bowker, he had this to say:

“Net-zero has pushed our teams to become innovative with materials and methods to meet clients’ requests. So we promote how we can help customers achieve their sustainability targets.”

 

Our head of hire and sales Vaughan Lingwood agrees:

“Sustainability questions come into Elite Systems from a range of sources. They can be from architects, contractors, consultancy agencies, and other decision makers. It shows that people across the board are re-evaluating their processes.”

 

And senior estimator Matt Towell added:

“Whether a project is simple or complex, they all need thorough assessment. I have seen there’s a growing focus on environmental impact in client enquiries. We’re committed to helping our clients identify sustainable practices that fit their budget.”

Synergy and success

Synergy creates something bigger and better than the sum of the parts. This applies to modular construction as we have found that co-operation leads to streamlined processes:

  • External architects and our technical team create designs to blend aesthetics with functionality
  • Engineers ensure that such designs are sound, sustainable and buildable
  • Contractors and our production team then make the buildings into a reality

With other professionals, they all adhere to local regulations as well as newer sustainability practices.

Our projects manager Craig Senior added his own thoughts:

“Co-operation from the start ensures that the project can meet all sustainability targets. We can identify and action ‘green’ opportunities sooner, then embed those transferrable practices from design through to final handover.

By pooling skills and knowledge-sharing, everyone can:

  • push boundaries
  • raise questions, and
  • create answers that are economically viable and socially responsible too

Why does sustainability matter to Elite Systems?

By embracing new practices, we can offer vibrant and inclusive buildings that promote net-zero emissions and more.

Jason Bowker goes on to add:

“It requires a collective effort across the construction industry to achieve global sustainability. Partnerships allow for the sharing and standardisation of practices – all of which affects what we do here. By working together, we drive innovation, reduce waste and emissions and reduce the carbon footprint.”

Why have partnerships at all?

With long-term sustainability as the goal, we cannot undervalue our partnerships. By evaluating physical tools through to actions taken together, we can make effective change.

Elite Systems produces modular buildings and has formed lasting relationships across the UK. See a full list of our accreditations and framework memberships here, and you can review completed projects here.