As well as supporting and promoting the principles of sustainable development, the South West RDA has made a commitment to promoting sustainable construction techniques. These help ensure that environmental and social criteria are considered as an integral part of construction - from planning to completion. 
 
The RDA has supported the development of 'Future Foundations: A Sustainable Construction Charter' developed by Sustainability South West. It was one of the first organisations to sign up to the principles of the Charter for its own construction. 
 
Examples of sustainable construction techniques include use of 'environmentally friendly' materials, incorporation of efficient waste management techniques, recycling of water and other resources and use of renewable energy sources. 
 
Future Foundations was launched by Sustainability South West in 2001.