Meet the members, in conversation with Jonathan Bodley

Jonathan Bodley is the Chief Operation Officer (COO) of The Flooring Connection, a CapeTown-based company that provides sustainable and environmentally responsible acoustic flooring solutions. He answered our questions to give us insight into his work, where he draws inspiration from and his views on the transition to a green built environment.

1. Where you do you go for inspiration?

I am inspired by many things: exercise in all and any form, and books (I am currently reading ‘My African Journey’ by WS Churchill). I also love the ocean – the space, colours, sound is all very inspirational to me.

2. What is the best part of your workday?

I most enjoy networking with like-minded professionals and meeting industry leaders and colleagues from all over Africa.

3.What is the most exciting project/aspect of your work currently?

The Flooring Connection was founded in South Africa, but over the years, we’ve created connections with industry professionals across Africa. We are now embarking on an exciting journey of cementing our roots up north – at the moment, Ghana and Kenya are our focus but we will continue to expand. There is so much inspiring innovation happening there and we are learning a lot.

We have seen our products used in so many clever ways across the continent – truly inventive uses of our products that we never imagined. One example is where our rubber crumb cradles were used to hold solar panels and a geyser on a roof. This was very clever, as their acoustic properties prevented noise transfer. They also absorb all vibrations and completely protect the waterproofing.

4.What achievement are you most proud of?

We are most proud of our success in introducing a locally produced product to the South African market. Although it has been available for the past 20 years, it had not been locally marketed due to the volume required by international demand. We have realised that creating change in the construction industry takes time, effort, and commitment to see the process through.

5.What do you think is the most urgent global environmental challenge facing us?

I believe our most urgent global environmental challenges are of course, climate change, but also resource management, urbanisation, housing in Africa, and a planning environment that doesn’t realistically cater for the future.

6.What do you feel is the biggest issue in the green building industry that we have to overcome, and any ideas on where to start tackling it?

Building and construction are responsible for 39% of all carbon emissions worldwide. If we are going to reach net zero and create a truly sustainable world, we need to change our ways, and fast. Using better design, more sustainable products, and balancing human and environmental concerns are key to a better future. Africa is particularly important in this way, and I believe we have immense potential to lead the world in transforming the industry to be more conscious and forward-thinking.