What is the P5 Standard?
Developed by Green Project Management® (GPM®) Global, the P5 Standard transcends the traditional project management focus by incorporating the “triple bottom line” model: People, Planet, and Prosperity. It goes further by considering the Product being constructed and the Processes involved in the project. The P5 Standard provides guidance on evaluating and optimising a project’s sustainability across its entire lifecycle.
Benefits for Construction and Engineering
- Eco-Efficiency: Construction and engineering are resource-intensive industries. The P5 Standard aids in identifying ways to reduce energy consumption, minimise waste, and optimise the use of sustainable materials.
- Social Responsibility: P5 guides you to consider the social impact of your project on communities and stakeholders. This fosters inclusive development and improves the project’s long-term acceptance.
- Economic Viability: Sustainability isn’t just about “doing good.” P5 Standard helps align your project with long-term profitability, lower operational costs in the future, and enhanced resilience in the face of economic or environmental shifts.
Step-by-Step Application of P5
- P5 Impact Assessment (P5IA): Begin by analysing your project’s potential impact across the five dimensions of the P5 Standard (Product, Process, People, Planet, Prosperity). GPM offers a tool for this assessment.
- Sustainability Management Plan (SMP): Develop a plan to address the sustainability impacts identified. It outlines strategies to maximise positives and minimise negatives. Integrate this into your main project management plan.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Collaborate with stakeholders such as communities, suppliers, and clients to understand their sustainability priorities. Embed those goals in your SMP.
- Sustainability KPIs: Define relevant metrics (e.g., carbon emissions, water use, social impact measures). Monitor these throughout the project to track your progress.
- Continuous Learning: Adapt and iterate your SMP based on project performance and lessons learned. Sustainability is not a destination; it’s an ongoing improvement cycle.
Example
Imagine a bridge construction project. Using the P5 Standard, you might:
- Product: Design for longevity and resilience to climate change.
- Process: Reduce water use and waste through innovative practices.
- People: Engage local communities in the project, providing training and employment.
- Planet: Employ eco-friendly materials, minimise ecosystem disruption.
- Prosperity: Build a bridge that improves economic connectivity for the region.
The Future is Sustainable
The P5 Standard isn’t just another set of guidelines. It’s a framework that can transform how we build. By embracing the P5 principles, construction and engineering projects can create a better future for both people and the planet, paving the way toward a truly sustainable world.
Want to learn more or gain certification? Visit the Green Project Management website (https://greenprojectmanagement.org/) for the full P5 Standard, courses, and tools to help you on your sustainable project journey.
