September 2023 turned out to be an eventful month for BEE Incorporations. We had the distinct pleasure of participating in two key events within the sustainable building landscape: the WELL Summit and the Greenbuild Conference. These gatherings offered our team a unique platform to engage with industry peers, absorb invaluable insights, and build stronger relationships with clients, particularly in anticipation of upcoming advancements such as LEED v5. Here’s a recap of our main takeaways and experiences.
WELL Summit 2023
Hosted by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), the WELL Summit stands as a pinnacle event dedicated to advancing wellness in building practices. Our representatives, including Lopamudra Khanna, Director of Operations, and Stephanie Beaumont, Country Manager, seized this occasion to articulate our corporate vision and immerse in the latest trends in wellness and sustainability.
“The session on the LEED/WELL crosswalk at the WELL Summit was a practical treasure, aligning perfectly with our clients’ needs and adding real value to our sustainability conversations,” – Stephanie Beaumont, Country Manager.
The participants found the atmosphere of the event to be exceptionally warm and inclusive. Sessions, though limited in number, were highly relevant and engaging. Enhanced by real-time polls, they encapsulated the thoughts of attendees. The setup facilitated a cohesive networking space, bringing clients, vendors, and reviewers together, streamlining connections and discussions. Key takeaways included practical tips on Performance Verification and successful submissions, marking the event as a productive convergence of experts and enthusiasts in the field.
During the Summit, Lopamudra Khanna was recognized for her personal achievement, receiving the Performance Testing Award. This honor highlights her dedication and expertise in sustainable building practices.
Greenbuild International Conference & Expo
The Greenbuild Conference, hosted in Washington, D.C. by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), was another highlight of our September journey. As USGBC celebrated its 30th anniversary, we joined with industry leaders to discuss the future of sustainable construction. Together with Lopamudra and Stephanie, our Vice President of Engineering Lucas Wang, and Senior Project Manager Andy Ling Leng, actively participated in sessions and panels, sharing insights and absorbing new knowledge.
“Exploring Greenbuild’s diverse sessions was a delight, yet one, in particular, caught my attention for its compelling perspective on sustainability. The insights shared during the Regenerative Design – Project Positive session were not just informative but a testament to how innovative thinking and a commitment to nature can redefine the landscape of sustainability in the built environment,” – Lopamudra Khanna, Director of Operations.
Greenbuild maintained its reputation for a vast and varied program. Participants enjoyed sessions covering topics from ESG metrics to the integration of LEED with other rating systems, and comprehensive introductions to LEED v5. Notable too was the sustainable practice of name tag recycling, a small but significant act reflecting the event’s environmental commitment.
The expertise of speakers and the availability of post-session discussions were particularly beneficial for delving deeper into the subject matter. The USGBC Technical booth emerged as a nexus for reconnecting with peers and accessing technical experts, enhancing the collaborative spirit of the conference.
“The conference provided an excellent opportunity to see and learn about new technologies and innovative strategies applied to green buildings. A green building signifies a better structure, saving energy, caring for occupants, and minimizing waste. As a green building developer, I understand the importance of maximizing tangible outcomes and effectively communicating with investors to quantitatively demonstrate the long-term benefits,” – Andy Ling Leng, Senior Project Manager.
Gearing Up for LEED v5
One of the highlights of the Greenbuild was the informative session focusing on the upcoming LEED v5. Our team gained a deeper understanding of what to expect and how to prepare for this new version. This knowledge is invaluable as we continue to lead the field in implementing the latest standards in green building.
This new iteration promises to revolutionize the landscape of green building, emphasizing not just environmental sustainability, but also social equity and resilience against climate change.
The draft introduces several new components, such as climate resilience assessment, social impact assessment, and operational carbon projection. These additions signify a shift towards a more holistic approach to sustainability, where buildings are not just environmentally friendly but also socially responsible and resilient.
“The insights and discussions around LEED v5 were not just informative but timely, addressing the very questions our clients are currently exploring,” – Stephanie Beaumont, Country Manager.
During the Greenbuild Conference, our Country Manager, Stephanie Beaumont, had an opportunity to share BEE’s journey and expertise in an interview with the US Green Building Council (USGBC). Her insights highlighted our company’s role and innovations in the evolving landscape of sustainable building.
Why It Was Important for Us
Networking and Knowledge Sharing at Its Best
The WELL Summit and Greenbuild Conference provided unparalleled opportunities for networking and knowledge exchange. These platforms brought together a diverse group of professionals, all passionate about sustainable building practices. Our team actively participated in various workshops, panel discussions, and informal networking sessions. These interactions weren’t just about exchanging business cards but were deeply rooted in sharing experiences, challenges, and innovative solutions.
The diversity of viewpoints and the depth of expertise present at these events enriched our understanding of current trends and future directions in green building. The discussions went beyond conventional topics, exploring the intersection of sustainability with technology, health, and social responsibility. This melting pot of ideas was not only intellectually stimulating but also provided us with practical insights and strategies that we can apply to our projects and business practices.
Strengthening Client Relationships
One of the most rewarding aspects of our participation was the opportunity to meet face-to-face with our clients. In an era where digital communication dominates, the power of personal interaction cannot be overstated. These meetings allowed us to deepen our understanding of our clients’ needs and expectations. It was particularly gratifying to connect with teams that are geographically diverse.
Our conversations with clients went beyond the confines of specific projects, embracing broader discussions about industry trends, challenges, and opportunities for innovation. This level of engagement strengthens our partnerships, demonstrating our commitment to not just meeting but exceeding client expectations. These interactions have left us with a renewed sense of purpose and an even stronger commitment to delivering exceptional service and sustainable solutions.
The WELL Summit and Greenbuild Conference have been instrumental in providing us with a comprehensive outlook on the future of green building. We are excited to implement the insights gained and continue contributing to a more sustainable world through our work.
