RICS Student Competition 2023
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Decarbonising the Built Environment – the road to COP 28
The built environment and its industry are among the largest carbon emitters in most countries. Data for 2021 show that the sector is responsible for about 34% of energy use and 37% of carbon emissions globally.
Ahead of COP28, RICS launched the global student competition, encouraging students from all over the world to share their ideas on accelerating the decarbonisation of the build environment within five themes: policy, technology, finance, society, and skills.
The winners of the competition will be awarded 5 hours of mentoring with an MRICS, their solution published on the WBEF pages and a speaking slot at the next global WBEF week.
Winners
We are pleased to announce this year’s RICS global student competition winners Jen Yee Long and Yap Jia Hui from Malaysia, currently studying a Bachelor of Quantity Surveying (Honours) at Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology in Malaysia.
Jen Yee Long
“I believe in the power of informed dialogue, and winning this competition motivates me to continue advocating for a sustainable future. Thank you to RICS for this incredible opportunity, and I look forward to contributing meaningfully to the discussions at the WBEF ”.
Yap Jia Hui
“Winning this competition not only signifies my commitment to the critical cause of decarbonising the built environment but also underscores the importance of collective efforts in shaping a sustainable future. Thank you RICS for fostering a platform that encourages meaningful dialogue and innovation in the field of environmental sustainability”.
Winning entry
Their submission Decarbonising Homes: Rainwater to Green Hydrogen in Malaysia showcased an innovative technological solution to decarbonise homes by converting rainwater to green hydrogen through the process of electrolysis.
The idea advocates community support and self-sufficiency for homeowners encouraging the generation of clean, natural renewable energy that supports off-grid electricity production decreasing the reliability on fossil fuels in electricity production. This solution can help reform the residential landscape and support the national grid with surplus credits.
In 2019, Malaysia’s residential sector contributed 37.3% of emissions highlighting the urgent need to enhance energy efficiency and decarbonise homes to mitigate the effects of climate change. Despite presenting significant challenges, the 2050 target of net-zero emissions also offers opportunities for innovation, promoting sustainable practices in the industry, government and among consumers.
By relying on collecting rainwater, this tech innovation splits it into hydrogen and oxygen through the process of electrolysis. The Green hydrogen derived from rainwater is a versatile energy carrier, capable of generating electricity without emitting greenhouse gases and supports the transition from fossil fuels, significantly reducing carbon emissions.
Next generation impact
RICS is committed to next generation impact and equipping young professionals with the skills and opportunities to succeed in the profession. We aim to be an accountable and influential leader, regulator and recognise that in order to create a sustainable future and progress the profession we all need to work collaboratively and champion positive change in the profession, industry, and communities we serve.
We are proud to showcase this idea to our global membership, other stakeholders and encourage the participation of next generation professionals in creating a world that is greener, resilient, and sustainable. A positive step towards decarbonising the built environment and getting closer to achieving the 2050 net zero target.
Surveying career guides for students
School students' guide
Our school students' guide is a perfect introduction to surveying in the land, property, built environment and construction sectors, and explains why a surveying career could be a good option for you.
University students' guide
Our guide for university students provides more in-depth information about a surveying career, including all the different surveying specialisms and how to become a chartered surveyor.
