Apr 13 2005
The Green Party published its manifesto for the General Election this morning. Among the key points of most interest to the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) are:
Phasing out of VAT and creation of an integrated system of eco-taxes based on natural resource usage, pollution and waste;
Introduction of a Warmer Homes Act with plans to reduce domestic energy demand by 30% within 10 years;
Improvement of the design of cities to provide safer streets and public spaces;
Prompt repair of damaged public amenities and spaces.
The Royal Institute of British Architects, in its own Manifesto for Architecture, has also called for smart fiscal incentives to encourage energy efficiency and waste reduction.
Commenting on the Green Party manifesto, RIBA President George Ferguson said: “Like the Green Party, the RIBA is acutely conscious that sustainable communities – in every sense – cannot possibly be delivered without high quality design and attention to ways in which architecture can offer environmental benefits. We also know that design is an essential element in giving communities a sense of safety, belonging and pride in their neighbourhoods. These are no longer fringe issues – they are absolutely central to better places.”