Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI)

Why EDI is important

Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) emphasises three core principles: equal access to opportunities and resources, regardless of race, gender, or disability; recognition of the value that a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints brings; and the fostering of a culture where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and empowered to contribute.

The business case for committing to EDI is well established. Inclusive organisations are more creative, productive, profitable and responsive to diverse customer needs. Yet many remain underrepresented within the built environment sector across the globe.

But resolving this stark under-representation provides a solution to the ongoing skills shortage in the sector. This is why, along with the ethical and legal cases, the CIOB is committed to promoting a more representative, welcoming, and diverse industry. Promoting fair and equitable access to opportunities and inclusive practices will contribute to a stronger economy to everyone’s benefit, across and beyond the construction industry.

Cross-sector EDI partnership

In mid-2022, six leading professional membership bodies from across the built environment sector launched a 45-point action plan to jointly promote equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI). 

This includes: 

• The Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB)  
• The Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE) 
• The Landscape Institute (LI) 
• The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)  
• The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)  
• The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI)

Together the organisations, collectively representing 350,000 members, are collaborating on standardising member data collection; understanding the transition from education into employment; and raising the sector’s standards of EDI knowledge, behaviours and practice. 

The action plan details clear outcomes, target deadlines over three years, required resources, and responsibilities, enabling the organisations to clearly track progress and accountability.

Become an EDI Ambassador 

Our CIOB EDI Ambassadors are key in spreading best practice across our CIOB communities world-wide, as well as helping to create a dialogue between the industry and CIOB by raising concerns and sharing discussions across CIOB’s various networks. 
CIOB members on Hub Committees with knowledge and enthusiasm in this area can volunteer as an ambassador, working with local Hubs, regional committees, or the Tomorrow’s Leaders community to make a positive contribution to the CIOB’s approach to this policy agenda.

Get involved 

Step 1: read the role profile to see if this is right for you.

Step 2: agree with your local Hub or regional committee that you will act as its sole EDI Ambassador.

Step 3: inform the EDI team.