Apr 13 2006
UK householders are demanding stricter building regulations to help tackle climate change - according to new research released by the Energy Saving Trust today.
The research, which coincides with the new Part L of the Building Regulations coming into force this month, reveals that nearly two thirds (64%) of people in the UK believe we should introduce stricter energy efficient building regulations for new homes.
Now, the Energy Saving Trust is to publish findings from a new report at Interbuild (23- 27 April 06 at the NEC Birmingham), which will inform industry on how to achieve sustainable homes over the next decade.
Philip Sellwood, chief executive of the Energy Saving Trust, said: It is clear that people in the UK are becoming more aware of the impact our homes are having on climate change and are keen to see significant improvements.
"With around one million new homes set to be built over the next five years, it is now imperative that we understand how the industry can make significant progress towards zero carbon homes.
"Our new report sets out the existing technical knowledge base, and identifies the issues that need to be resolved, to ensure we are in a position to make further significant improvements under the next review of the Building Regulations Part L and in other areas of new build policy and programme development. We look forward to hearing people's views, and to engaging in discussion on these issues."
The report concludes that it is possible to go significantly further than the new Part L (2006) simply by building the basic fabric of our homes better, even before we resort to more innovative technologies.
The work helps scope out the research required over the course of the next five years, and concludes it is essential that such research is commenced as soon as possible, to allow a smooth run-up to future policy changes.
The Energy Saving Trust offers free practical information and advice on delivering the best in energy efficiency, as well as training to develop an understanding of energy efficiency and renewable solutions in our homes. It also sets standards for the housing industry that go beyond the current building regulations, and provides free resources including best practice guides, technical advice, tools and training on how to meet those standards - around 25% above and beyond those set out in Part L of the Building Regulations.
Sellwood concludes: "Achieving carbon reductions in housing is clearly a priority for Government, consumers and the construction industry and we need to work together to resolve any barriers in order to ensure zero carbon homes become the norm not the exception."