ASCOT: In response to the Government's consultation for a 'Definition of Zero Carbon Homes and Non-Domestic Buildings', the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB) has called for an all-encompassing single national reference point for new buildings to create a level playing field across the UK.
Alan Crane CIOB, ambassador, said: "The industry has got capacity. That means the people, technology and innovations to really tackle the carbon issue. But if we are to make a difference we have to have stretching targets and not just scratch the surface. This will also bring social and economic benefits as well as environmental impacts."
In its submission to the Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) the CIOB said a clear set of requirements from the Government is needed, and encourages joined-up thinking, inclusion of current industry knowledge and simplification across the industry to address the carbon footprint of newbuild and non-domestic existing buildings.
The CIOB has also called for a greater focus on existing buildings. "More than 80% of the 2025 building stock has already been built and improving the performance of the existing building stock is the most important and effective area where carbon emissions can be reduced."
It is also the view of the CIOB that while the consultation considers the specific approaches that could be taken by the Government and industry to address legally binding targets for a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, it needs to consider the wider picture on a national scale.
