Title: Obsolescence types and the built environment - definitions and implications

Authors: T.E. Butt; M. Camilleri; P. Paul; K.G. Jones

Addresses: Centre of Water Systems (CWS), College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences (CEMPS), The University of Exeter, Harrison Building, North Park Road, Exeter, EX4 4QF, England, UK; School of Engineering and Design, Brunel University; Uxbridge, UB8 3PH, London, England, UK; Sustainable Built Environments Research Group (SBERG), School of Architecture, Construction and Design, University of Greenwich, Eltham, Bexley Road, SE9 2PQ, London, England, UK ' Datamine Ltd., The Signal Box, 66 The Strand, Parnell, Auckland 1052, New Zealand ' School of Engineering and Design, Brunel University, Uxbridge, UB8 3PH, London, England, UK ' Sustainable Built Environments Research Group (SBERG), School of Architecture, Construction and Design, University of Greenwich, Eltham, Bexley Road, SE9 2PQ, London, England, UK

Abstract: In view of the literature to date as well as anecdotal conversations with practitioners and consultants in various sectors of the built environment industry, it is observed that the term 'obsolescence' is scarcely used or comprehended with its diverse implications. In the context of climate change impacts this term is even more uncommon. This paper describes implications of the term in the form of definitions and types of obsolescence from various perspectives, including the built environment and climate change. This study also briefly explains that obsolescence is a multi-faceted entity and the comprehension of its concept and implications can help to effectively manage the built environment in a sustainable manner, particularly to the face of climate change. This paper can stimulate both debate as well as further research in industry and academe, respectively.

Keywords: climate change; built environment; obsolescence types; sustainable development; sustainability; environmental legislation; obsolescence risks.

DOI: 10.1504/IJESD.2015.066896

International Journal of Environment and Sustainable Development, 2015 Vol.14 No.1, pp.20 - 39

Published online: 09 May 2015 *

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