StandardsIndustry leaders sign Memorandum of Understanding to spearhead international built environment collaboration

Content Team3 weeks ago5 min

Two of the world’s leading building standards organisations, CIBSE and the International Code Council (ICC) signed the MOU to strengthen global cooperation on some of the biggest challenges facing the built environment.

Signed on 23 April, the agreement aims to accelerate the exchange of knowledge, promote best practice, and jointly address critical issues such as building safety, sustainability, and performance.

What will the MOU help accomplish?

By signing the Memorandum, both CIBSE and ICC will work together to target some of the toughest changes in the built environment. This includes:

  • Identify and collaborate on shared priorities that support the advancement of building safety, sustainability and performance
  • Jointly promote educational programmes, technical publications and events
  • Encourage the exchange of knowledge through participation in technical initiatives and subject matter expert groups
  • Facilitate ongoing dialogue and engagement at the organisational level

Dr Anastasia Mylona, Technical Director at CIBSE, commented: “By working closely with the ICC, we can amplify our collective impact and share valuable expertise that supports the development of robust standards and guidance for our global communities.

Matt Sigler, PMG Executive Director at ICC said: “Partnering with CIBSE provides a unique opportunity to align our efforts and expand the global reach of effective building codes and technical excellence. Together, we can foster innovation, enhance public safety and support the evolving needs of the built environment around the world.”

Addressing pressing challenges in the built environment

This collaboration comes at an important time. The built environment faces mounting pressure to address:

  • Building safety: From fire safety to structural integrity, recent global incidents have highlighted the urgent need for more consistent, enforceable safety standards.
  • Sustainability: As the sector grapples with its environmental footprint, low-carbon design, energy efficiency, and resource conservation have become core concerns.
  • Resilience and adaptability: Buildings must be designed for longevity and changing climate conditions, while also supporting occupant health and wellbeing.
  • Skills and knowledge gaps: Ensuring that engineers, architects, and contractors have access to up-to-date training and guidance is essential to meet evolving technical and regulatory demands.

By joining forces, CIBSE and the ICC aim to step towards addressing these challenges with a united global voice.

Content Team

Work in Mind is a content platform designed to give a voice to thinkers, businesses, journalists and regulatory bodies in the field of healthy buildings.

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