SEVENOAKS: H+H is the first company to achieve a 'very good' rating in the BES 6001:2008 Standard for the Responsible Sourcing of Construction Products.
This means that all of its products from all manufacturing sites have gone through the processes required to obtain this certification.
The benefit to aircrete users is that this certification translates into the maximum 3 credits available on the Code for Sustainable Homes, which is the same available to a timber frame construction with an FSC certification scheme. The certification process is divided into three section requirements: organisational management; supply chain management and environmental and social.
To enable it to satisfy all three sections, H+H had to prepare and provide data on both its own business and that of its suppliers, including:
Quality, environmental and health and safety management systems.
Efficient use of energy and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Sustainable and efficient use of material resources and water.
Ethical business practice and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
The company also had to demonstrate responsible site stewardship in relation to avoiding pollution and protecting the environment.
In addition, H+H had to minimise the impact of transport associated with the delivery of the constituent materials used in manufacture, waste disposal and the delivery of products to its customers, while also liaising with the local community 'on matters of mutual interest'.
Jenny Smith-Andrews, marketing communications manager of H+H commented: "The BES standard allows for four levels of attainment: 'pass'; 'good'; 'very good' and 'excellent'. By achieving a 'very good' rating over all products and all sites, not only has H+H proved its commitment to sustainability and the environment, but it has also proved that our efforts so far are both verifiable and recognised at the highest levels."
