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The Environmental Impact Of Traditional Construction Methods

February 19, 2024/in Home Page news feed, News /by joannevickers

Traditional construction methods, while essential for building infrastructure and meeting housing demands, often have significant environmental impacts. These impacts arise from resource extraction, energy consumption, waste generation, and other factors associated with conventional building practices. Here are key environmental concerns related to traditional construction methods:

Resource Depletion:

Timber and Deforestation: Traditional construction heavily relies on timber for framing and other structural elements. Unsustainable logging practices contribute to deforestation, leading to loss of biodiversity, disruption of ecosystems, and increased greenhouse gas emissions.
Mineral Extraction: The extraction of raw materials such as sand, gravel, and other minerals for concrete production can result in habitat destruction, soil erosion, and depletion of natural resources.

Energy Consumption:

High Embodied Energy: The manufacturing and transportation of construction materials, especially those like steel and concrete, require significant energy inputs. This embodied energy contributes to the overall carbon footprint of a building.
Energy-Intensive Production: Traditional manufacturing processes for materials like cement involve high-temperature kilns, contributing to substantial greenhouse gas emissions.

Waste Generation:

Construction and Demolition Waste: Traditional construction often generates large amounts of waste during both the construction and demolition phases. This waste includes excess materials, packaging, and demolition debris, which can end up in landfills, contributing to environmental pollution.
Single-Use Materials: Many traditional construction materials are designed for single-use, contributing to a linear, rather than circular, economy.

Carbon Emissions:

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The production of cement, a key ingredient in concrete, is a major source of carbon dioxide emissions. Additionally, transportation of materials and machinery to construction sites adds to the carbon footprint of traditional construction.
Operational Energy: Buildings constructed using traditional methods may lack energy-efficient features, leading to increased energy consumption for heating, cooling, and lighting over their lifespan.

Water Consumption:

Concrete Production: The production of concrete involves significant water usage, and the extraction of aggregates can impact local water sources. Water scarcity in certain regions exacerbates the environmental impact of traditional construction methods.

Land Use and Habitat Disruption:

Urbanisation and Expansion: Traditional construction often involves expanding into natural habitats, leading to loss of biodiversity, disruption of ecosystems, and fragmentation of landscapes.
Impervious Surfaces: The creation of impervious surfaces, such as roads and pavements associated with traditional construction, can contribute to increased runoff, soil erosion, and changes in local hydrology.

Air and Noise Pollution:

Construction Activities: The construction phase itself generates air and noise pollution through heavy machinery, construction vehicles, and other equipment.

Acknowledging these environmental impacts is crucial for the construction industry to transition towards more sustainable practices. Adopting eco-friendly materials, embracing energy-efficient technologies, and incorporating sustainable design principles are essential steps in mitigating the environmental consequences of traditional construction methods.

If you would like to discuss your projects environmental impact please contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our experts.

The Growing Importance Of Sustainability In The Construction Industry

January 30, 2024/in Home Page news feed, News /by joannevickers

The growing importance of sustainability in the construction industry is driven by a combination of environmental, social, and economic factors. As the world grapples with the challenges of climate change and resource depletion, the construction sector plays a significant role in shaping a more sustainable future. Here are several key aspects highlighting the increasing importance of sustainability in construction:

Environmental Awareness:

Climate Change Concerns: The construction industry is a major contributor to carbon emissions, energy consumption, and waste generation. With increasing awareness of climate change, there’s a growing urgency to reduce the environmental impact of construction activities.
Resource Depletion: Traditional construction practices often involve the extraction and consumption of finite resources. Sustainable construction aims to minimise resource depletion by promoting the use of renewable materials, recycling, and efficient resource management.

Regulatory Pressures:

Stringent Regulations: Governments worldwide are implementing stricter environmental regulations and building codes to address climate concerns. Compliance with these regulations often requires construction companies to adopt sustainable practices, making sustainability a legal and regulatory imperative.

Cost Savings and Efficiency:

Long-Term Economic Benefits: While there may be initial costs associated with implementing sustainable practices, the long-term economic benefits are significant. Energy-efficient buildings, for example, can lead to reduced operational costs over the lifespan of the structure.
Market Demand: The demand for sustainable buildings is increasing as more businesses and individuals prioritise environmentally friendly options. Construction companies that embrace sustainability can tap into a growing market and attract clients who value eco-friendly practices.

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR):

Reputation and Brand Image: Adopting sustainable construction practices enhances a company’s reputation and brand image. Clients, investors, and the public increasingly expect businesses to demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility and social well-being.
Social Impact: Sustainable construction goes beyond environmental concerns; it also addresses social aspects such as worker safety, community engagement, and the well-being of future generations. Construction companies are recognising the importance of contributing positively to the communities in which they operate.

Innovation and Technology:

Technological Advancements: Advances in technology have made sustainable construction more feasible and cost-effective. Innovations such as smart building systems, energy-efficient materials, and construction technologies contribute to the industry’s ability to adopt more sustainable practices.
Research and Development: Ongoing research and development in sustainable construction materials and methodologies are driving continuous improvements and providing construction companies with more options to reduce their environmental impact.

Global Commitments:

International Agreements: Global agreements and initiatives, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasise the need for sustainable development across all sectors, including construction. The construction industry plays a crucial role in achieving these overarching sustainability goals.

In summary, the growing importance of sustainability in the construction industry is a response to environmental challenges, regulatory pressures, economic benefits, and societal expectations. Construction companies that proactively integrate sustainable practices into their operations are better positioned to thrive in a rapidly evolving business landscape while contributing to a more sustainable and resilient built environment.

If you would like to discuss how to make your project more sustainable please contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our experts.

The 10 most Eco friendly construction materials for 2024

December 13, 2023/in Home Page news feed, News /by James

We’ve seen in the construction industry a growing emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendliness. Several materials have gained popularity for their low environmental impact and energy-efficient properties. Here are some of the most eco-friendly construction materials to watch out for in 2024:

1. Bamboo
Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource with a short growth cycle compared to traditional hardwoods. This rapid growth makes bamboo an exceptionally renewable resource compared to traditional hardwoods, which may take decades to mature. And unlike traditional hardwoods that need replanting after harvesting, bamboo regenerates naturally from its rhizomes (underground stems). This characteristic simplifies the cultivation process and reduces the need for extensive replanting efforts. As a construction material, it has a very high strength-to-weight ratio, making it a durable and versatile material for various construction applications. It’s suitable for use in numerous structural framing elements. It can be employed as columns, beams, and trusses in buildings, providing a strong and lightweight alternative to traditional materials. Bamboo can also be processed into planks for flooring, offering a durable and attractive option. Bamboo flooring is known for its hardness, and it comes in various styles, including solid bamboo and engineered bamboo.

2. Recycled Steel
Using recycled steel in construction helps reduce the demand for energy-intensive new steel production, and reducing the demand for raw iron ore, thereby conserving natural resources. Recycled steel maintains the same structural integrity and performance characteristics as virgin steel. This consistency in quality ensures that construction projects meet or exceed industry standards. Steel is a material that can be recycled indefinitely without compromising its quality. This characteristic makes it a truly sustainable and cyclical resource for the construction industry. Steel is known for its durability and longevity. Recycled steel maintains these properties, providing structures with resilience and longevity, ultimately reducing the need for frequent replacements and repairs.

3. Recycled Glass
Recycled glass can be used in construction as a substitute for traditional aggregates in concrete. Incorporating recycled glass into building materials reduces the need for new raw materials and helps divert waste from landfills. Incorporating recycled glass into construction projects can earn points toward green building certifications, such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). Many sustainable building standards recognise and reward the use of recycled materials. Recycled glass maintains its durability, strength, and longevity, making it a reliable material for construction.

4. Recycled Plastic
Recycled plastic can be used in construction materials such as insulation, roofing tiles, and lumber substitutes. Using recycled plastic helps decrease the environmental impact of plastic waste and reduces the demand for virgin plastic production. Recycled plastic allows for innovative and sustainable design possibilities. It can be moulded into various shapes and sizes, enabling architects to explore creative solutions in building and landscaping projects. The incorporation of recycled plastic in construction aligns with public awareness and concern about plastic pollution. Projects using recycled plastic may garner community support and engagement by promoting environmentally responsible building practices.

5. Fly Ash Concrete
Fly ash concrete, also known as fly ash blended cement or fly ash blended concrete, is a type of concrete that incorporates fly ash as a supplementary cementitious material. Fly ash is a byproduct of coal combustion and can be used as a supplementary cementitious material in concrete. Incorporating fly ash reduces the amount of cement needed, leading to lower carbon emissions associated with cement production. Fly ash imparts pozzolanic properties to concrete, enhancing its durability and resistance to factors such as sulfate attack and alkali-silica reaction. This results in a longer service life for structures. Fly ash concrete typically exhibits lower heat of hydration compared to traditional concrete. This is beneficial in large pours, such as in mass concrete structures, as it helps mitigate the risk of thermal cracking.

6. Straw Bales
The use of straw bales in construction, commonly known as straw bale construction or straw bale building, is an eco-friendly and sustainable building method that has gained popularity for its numerous advantages. Straw bales are an agricultural byproduct that can be used as a natural building material for insulation and construction. They provide excellent insulation properties and are biodegradable at the end of their life cycle. Straw bales provide excellent insulation properties, helping to regulate indoor temperatures. They have high thermal resistance (R-value), which contributes to energy efficiency and reduces the need for additional insulation materials.

7. Rammed Earth
Rammed earth construction is an ancient building technique that has been rediscovered and embraced in modern sustainable architecture. This method involves creating solid, durable walls by compressing a mixture of earth, gravel, sand, and sometimes stabilisers within sturdy formwork. This method has a low environmental impact, as it minimises the use of energy-intensive materials and processes. Rammed earth has excellent thermal mass properties, which means it can absorb, store, and release heat slowly. This helps regulate indoor temperatures, leading to energy savings and increased comfort in both hot and cold climates.

8. Cork
Cork is harvested from the bark of cork oak trees. The harvesting process, known as cork stripping, does not harm the trees, and they continue to regenerate cork bark. This makes cork a renewable and sustainable resource. It is often used as a flooring material and has insulating properties, contributing to energy efficiency. Cork has natural fire-resistant properties. While it may not be entirely fireproof, cork does not contribute to the spread of flames and can act as a fire retardant in certain applications.

9. Hempcrete
Hempcrete is a sustainable building material that has gained attention for its eco-friendly properties and versatility in construction. It is made from the inner woody fibers of the hemp plant, combined with lime and water. Hemp is a fast-growing plant with a short cultivation cycle, making it a renewable resource. It is a lightweight and breathable material that acts as an insulator while absorbing carbon dioxide during the curing process. Hempcrete can be used for various construction applications, including walls, floors, and roofs. It can be used in new construction or as a retrofit material. Its versatility makes it adaptable to different architectural styles.

10. FSC-Certified Wood
Wood sourced from forests certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) ensures responsible and sustainable forestry practices. FSC-certified wood is a renewable resource and can be used for various construction applications. FSC-certified wood comes from responsibly managed forests, helping to preserve natural habitats and protect ecosystems. Healthy and well-managed forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. FSC-certified wood contributes to carbon sequestration, helping mitigate the effects of climate change. FSC-certified wood is available in various forms, including dimensional lumber, plywood, engineered wood products, and more. This allows for diverse applications in construction, from framing to finishing materials.

When considering eco-friendly construction materials, it’s essential to evaluate their entire life cycle, including extraction, production, transportation, and disposal, to make informed choices that contribute to sustainable building practices.

If you would like to discuss eco-friendly materials for your construction project, please contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our experts.

The Future of Commercial Interior Fit-Outs

November 13, 2023/in Commercial, Home Page news feed, Interiors Fit Outs, News /by James

As more and more businesses return to office based working, we’re noticing a lot more focus and consideration is being given to the workspace, and rightly so. In the ever-evolving landscape of commercial spaces, interior design trends play a pivotal role in shaping the functionality, aesthetics, and overall ambiance of work environments. Keeping abreast of the latest trends in commercial interior fit-outs is crucial for businesses looking to create dynamic and innovative spaces that meet the needs of their workforce. In this post, we’ll explore the trends shaping the future of commercial interior fit-outs.

Flexibility is Key
The trend toward flexible workspaces continues to gain momentum. Adaptable layouts, movable furniture, and modular designs are becoming staples in commercial interiors. This approach accommodates changing work dynamics, promoting collaboration, and catering to the growing popularity of hybrid work models.
Biophilic Bliss
Biophilic design, which incorporates natural elements into the workspace, is proving to be more than just a passing trend. From indoor plants and green walls to natural light optimisation, businesses are recognising the positive impact of biophilia on employee well-being and productivity.
Sustainable Statements
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a cornerstone of modern interior fit-outs. Businesses are opting for eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and waste reduction strategies to align with their corporate responsibility goals.
The Hybrid Work Hub
With remote work becoming a permanent fixture in many industries, commercial interiors are transforming into hybrid work hubs. Spaces are designed to seamlessly integrate remote and in-person collaboration, offering a harmonious blend of technology and flexible furniture solutions.
Technology at the Forefront
From smart office solutions to interactive meeting spaces, integrating the latest technology is a must for modern commercial interiors. Video conferencing capabilities, touch-less controls, and integrated communication systems are becoming standard features.
Employee Well-Being Zones
The emphasis on employee well-being has given rise to dedicated wellness zones within commercial interiors. Quiet spaces, meditation rooms, and ergonomic furniture contribute to creating environments that prioritize mental health and physical comfort.
Branding Beyond Logos
Beyond the conventional logo on the wall, companies are now using interior design to tell their brand story. Branded colors, custom graphics, and thematic design elements help create a cohesive brand identity within the workspace.
Resimercial Revolution
The resimercial trend, blending residential and commercial design elements, is redefining the traditional office aesthetic. Comfortable furniture, cozy breakout areas, and homely touches contribute to a more inviting and relaxed atmosphere.

As post-pandemic businesses evolve and working paradigms shift, the trends in commercial interior fit-outs will continue to adapt to meet the demands of the modern workforce. Whether it’s the pursuit of flexibility, sustainability, or employee well-being, the future of commercial interiors promises spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and conducive to productivity. Staying attuned to these trends ensures that businesses can create work environments that inspire innovation and foster a positive company culture.

If you would like to find out more about interior fit out options, please feel free to get in touch and arrange a consultation with our experts.

As the problem with RAAC concrete being used in schools intensifies, what are the issues?

September 6, 2023/0 Comments/in Home Page news feed, News /by joannevickers

What is RAAC?

Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC), also known as Reinforced AAC, is a building material that combines the properties of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) with reinforcement to enhance its structural strength. It is a lightweight, precast concrete alternative made from sand, cement, lime, and aluminum powder. The aluminum powder creates tiny bubbles in the concrete during a chemical reaction, resulting in a highly porous and lightweight material. AAC is known for its excellent thermal insulation properties, low density, and ease of construction.

In the context of RAAC, reinforcement typically refers to the addition of steel reinforcement, such as rebars (reinforcing bars), mesh, or other structural elements, within the AAC panels or blocks. Reinforcement is added to improve the material’s tensile strength and structural stability, making it suitable for a wider range of structural applications.

The combination of AAC and reinforcement offers several advantages:

Structural Strength: The inclusion of reinforcement enhances the material’s ability to withstand tensile and shear forces, making it suitable for load-bearing applications.
Lightweight: RAAC retains the lightweight properties of AAC, reducing the overall weight of the structure, which can be advantageous in construction.
Thermal Insulation: RAAC maintains the excellent thermal insulation properties of AAC, contributing to energy efficiency in buildings.
Fire Resistance: AAC, including RAAC, is known for its fire-resistant properties.
Sound Insulation: RAAC can offer good sound insulation capabilities.

Reinforced AAC is commonly used in structural applications where both strength and insulation properties are required. It can be used in residential, commercial, and industrial construction for walls, floors, and roofs. However, it’s important to follow proper design and construction practices to ensure the structural integrity of RAAC buildings. Engineers and architects typically design RAAC structures to meet local building codes and standards, taking into account the specific requirements of the project and the region’s climate and environmental conditions.

While reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC) has many benefits, it also comes with certain potential risks and considerations:

Lack of Awareness: One of the primary risks associated with AAC is a lack of awareness or expertise among builders and contractors. Improper installation and construction techniques can lead to structural issues or reduced performance.
Reinforcement Corrosion: If not adequately protected, steel reinforcement within AAC can corrode over time, especially in environments with high humidity or exposure to salts. This can weaken the structure and compromise its durability.
Moisture Management: AAC is susceptible to moisture infiltration if not properly sealed or protected. Moisture can lead to mold growth, degradation of the AAC material, and reduced insulation properties.
Inadequate Design: In some cases, the design of reinforced AAC structures may not account for specific structural loads or environmental conditions, leading to potential weaknesses or safety hazards.
Fire Resistance: While AAC is generally fire-resistant, the presence of steel reinforcement can affect its fire resistance properties. If not designed and installed correctly, the reinforcement may become a heat bridge, reducing the overall fire resistance of the structure.

Why is it is the news?

Last week the Department of Education issued an alert to 156 schools, nurseries and colleges stating that the material is now life expired and could collapse with little to no notice. This left said schools scrambling to close and organise alternate arrangements the weekend before they go back. The Department also stated that they not fund emergency measures needed to keep teaching going, placing extra pressure on stretched school budgets. The Cabinet Office also confirmed that 34 other public buildings had also been found to feature RAAC. Investigations are continuing but so far these include 24 hospitals sites with RAAC plank construction in whole or a significant part of their estate. Seven of these need a full replacement and will be rebuilt before 2030.

The Government has been aware of public sector buildings that contain RAAC since 1994 and have been monitoring their condition since 2018. They say that they continually assess new information and research about RAAC to ensure the safety of schools and pupils. In 2022, the Department for Education sent a questionnaire to all responsible bodies, asking them to provide information to help understand the use of RAAC across the school estate and make sure the correct support is in place. Recent cases have now changed that assessment of the risk that RAAC poses to building safety. They are therefore taking immediate steps to ensure the safety of staff and pupils in line with this.

Sources: The Guardian / GOV.co.uk

Commercial Fire Safety During A Heatwave

August 1, 2023/0 Comments/in Home Page news feed, News /by Oliver Berry

Commercial fire safety during a heatwave is crucial to protect employees, customers, and property. Here are some important considerations to ensure fire safety in commercial settings during hot weather:

Fire Safety Systems: Ensure that your commercial building is equipped with functioning fire safety systems, including fire alarms, sprinkler systems, and fire extinguishers. Regularly inspect and maintain these systems to ensure they are in proper working condition.
HVAC Systems: Maintain and service your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems regularly, especially during a heatwave. Clean or replace filters as needed to prevent dust buildup and ensure proper airflow. Faulty HVAC systems can increase the risk of fire due to overheating.
Electrical Safety: Perform routine electrical inspections to identify any potential hazards, such as overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, or damaged electrical equipment. Encourage employees to report any electrical issues promptly. Avoid using extension cords for prolonged periods and ensure proper electrical load distribution.
Emergency Exits and Evacuation Routes: Clearly mark emergency exits and evacuation routes throughout the building. Keep them free from obstruction and ensure employees are familiar with the evacuation procedures. Conduct regular fire drills to practice evacuation protocols.
Fire Safety Training: Provide comprehensive fire safety training to all employees. This training should include fire prevention techniques, proper use of fire extinguishers, and evacuation procedures. Employees should be aware of emergency contacts and how to report fire incidents.
Flammable Materials: Store flammable materials in designated areas that are well-ventilated and away from potential ignition sources. Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal of flammable substances. Follow all safety regulations and maintain updated Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for hazardous materials.
Smoking Policies: Implement and enforce strict smoking policies. Designate designated smoking areas away from the building and provide proper receptacles for extinguishing cigarettes. Discourage smoking near flammable materials or in areas susceptible to wildfires.
Regular Inspections: Conduct regular inspections of the premises to identify potential fire hazards, such as blocked fire exits, malfunctioning equipment, or storage violations. Promptly address any issues that are discovered.
External Fire Hazards: Assess and mitigate external fire risks, especially during heatwaves. Clear dry vegetation, debris, and flammable materials from the building’s surroundings. Ensure that fire hydrants and firefighting equipment are accessible to emergency responders.
Stay Informed: Stay updated on weather forecasts, heatwave alerts, and any fire-related warnings or advisories issued by local authorities. Establish communication channels to receive and disseminate information effectively.

Contact us to ensure that your commercial building meets all necessary fire safety regulations and guidelines specific to your location and industry. By implementing proactive fire safety measures, you can minimise the risk of fires and protect your business, employees, and customers during a heatwave.

Action needs to be taken on EU carbon emissions

February 13, 2023/0 Comments/in Home Page news feed, News /by joannevickers

EU Building regulations state that all new buildings constructed within the EU must be zero–emission buildings by 2030 and new ‘public’ buildings must be zero–emission buildings by 2027.

WorldGBC has convened a coalition of 35 built environment stakeholder groups, representing over 5,000 organisations from across the building value chain, to call for high level ambition as Parliamentary negotiations on the Energy Performance of Building Directive (EPBD) enter their final stage. With the vote approaching, the coalition is calling on politicians to seize a once-in-a-generation opportunity to eliminate carbon emissions from Europe’s building stock.

This past week WorldGBC has written an open letter to MEPs calling on them to:

Accelerate building renovation and address energy use and efficiency via the introduction of Minimum Energy Performance Standards and harmonisation of Energy Performance Certificates
Address total lifecycle emissions of buildings, including both operational and embodied emissions by supporting provisions regarding Whole Life Carbon reporting, targets, and thresholds

An ambitious EPBD revision will make EU building compatible with EU climate targets, take 35 million citizens out of energy poverty1 and unlock the economic benefits of creating up to 3.3 million green jobs in the EU every year2 while boosting local communities.

In Europe, buildings account for around 40% of energy consumption and 36% of CO2 emissions. Embodied carbon, which refers to emissions from the construction, renovation, deconstruction or demolition and the wider supply chain of a building, contributes typically between 10-20% of the EU building carbon footprint. This means that before a building is even in use, it has already contributed significant carbon emissions and depleted the EU’s ‘carbon budget’.

This letter comes amid growing political and industry support for policy that tackles the Whole Life Carbon impact of buildings.

To view the letter please go here

Source: worldgbc.org / bdc magazine.com

Will England follow Scotlands lead in green building?

January 24, 2023/0 Comments/in Home Page news feed, News /by joannevickers

All newly built homes in Scotland will need to conform to an innovative green building standard championed by a Labour MSP, under plans announced by the Scottish Government.

Labour’s Alex Rowley proposed the Domestic Building Environmental Standards (Scotland) Bill at the end of 2022 to introduce the Passivhaus standards for all newly built homes in Scotland.

The Passivhaus standards create ultra-low energy homes which aim to minimise the need to heat and cool buildings.

In a letter to Mr Rowley, Minister for Zero Carbon Buildings, Active Travel and Tenants’ Rights, Patrick Harvie confirmed that the Scottish Government would implement the standards within two years through secondary legislation – without the long process of a member’s Bill passed through Holyrood.

Homes built to Passivhaus level meet high standards of airtightness, insulation and energy efficiency, however the Scottish government has confirmed it is introducing its own ‘Passivhaus equivalent’ rather than using existing Passivhaus certification.

This Scottish equivalent will introduce minimum environmental design standards for new build homes to ensure they have high energy efficiency and thermal performance.

The Scottish government says it will implement the new standards within two years through secondary legislation. Development work will commence early in 2023 before the amendments are bought into regulations by December 2024.

A Passivhaus Trust spokesperson added: “It is fantastic to hear the Scottish government has committed to bringing forward a bill requiring higher energy-efficiency standards in domestic buildings, which also recognises the need to assure occupants that the design and construction of these buildings will deliver the actual performance sought in practice.

“Statements including ‘a Scottish equivalent to the Passivhaus standard’ and ‘explicit support for Passivhaus and equivalent standards’ fill us with hope. Now we must ensure that the bill is well developed and implemented to deliver the greatest impact on the actual performance of new homes in Scotland.”

To learn more please visit the Passivhaus website here

Source: The National Scot / www.passivhaustrust.org.uk / homebuilding.co.uk /

Can a building be net zero carbon?

December 12, 2022/0 Comments/in Home Page news feed, News /by joannevickers

Following on from our post last month about COP27, and the growing importance of sustainability in the construction industry, zero carbon is also something that is increasingly in the news.

A panel has been put together to determine exactly what constitutes a net zero carbon building and is now calling for evidence.

The NZCBS is the UK’s first Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard and are championing the initiative.

We are calling on UK built environment industry practitioners to share embodied carbon and in-use operational energy performance data for their buildings.

To develop the Standard, benchmarks will be agreed for the operational energy usage and embodied carbon performance levels today, and limits and targets will be set out for future years based on the industry’s required decarbonisation trajectory. To do this, the project is seeking case study data from the real estate and built environment industry.

The deadline for submission is the 16th December.

The Standard will set out metrics by which net zero carbon performance is evaluated, as well as performance targets, or limits, that need to be met. These are likely to include energy use, upfront embodied carbon, and lifecycle embodied carbon, with other metrics – such as space heating/cooling demand and peak load – also to be considered. It will also cover the approach to carbon accounting, procuring renewable energy, and the treatment of residual emissions, including carbon ‘offsetting’. However, the scope and output of the Standard may evolve throughout the development process.

It is expected that claims will be required to be validated based on in-use measured data and interim verification of an asset at design stage or once the asset is built but not yet operating may also be considered.

The output will be for developers, contractors, asset owners and managers, occupiers, investors, financiers and funders, consultants, building industry professionals, building managers and product/material manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors. It is for anyone who wants to either fund, procure, design, or specify a Net Zero Carbon Building and anyone wanting to demonstrate that their building is ‘Net Zero’-aligned with an industry-agreed Standard.

Performance targets will align with science-based trajectories needed to achieve net zero by 2050 and a 78% reduction by 2035 in the UK, i.e. what is known to be required to stand a reasonable chance of mitigating global warming to 1.5°C. It will also align with the energy demand reductions projected to be required to enable a net zero carbon energy supply sector.

The approach will be applicable to both existing and new buildings (e.g. Homes, Offices, Education, Industry, Retail, Hotels, Healthcare etc.). To start, the focus will be on the most common building typologies, especially those for which industry stakeholders have already robust performance data available to inform the setting of performance targets. The Standard will not apply to infrastructure.

The project will hopefully launch in May.

So, what actually is a net carbon building?

A carbon neutral building is one where the design, construction, and operations do not contribute to emissions of greenhouse gases that cause climate change. Reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions from the building sector will greatly help meet climate goals.

In the short and medium term the national grid will not be fully decarbonised and so buildings will need to make use of carbon offsetting to achieve a net zero carbon balance.

Sources: NZC Buildings / net zero carbon guide

What does COP27 mean for construction?

November 28, 2022/0 Comments/in Home Page news feed, News /by joannevickers

November saw the Government of the Arab Republic of Egypt host the 27th session of the Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC (COP27), with a view to building on previous successes and paving the way for future ambition to effectively tackle the global challenge of climate change.

The Building to COP27, a group of sustainability-focused built environment NGOs and organisations, is working to position the built environment as a critical sector to achieve the needed transition to a resilient and zero emissions future at COP conferences. The group aims to raise awareness of the impact that the building sector can have while pointing out that more drastic measures need to be taken, as most countries do not include full building decarbonization targets, and certain areas, such as building materials are under-addressed.

Buildings are responsible for almost 40% of global energy-related carbon emissions and 50% of all extracted materials. The building and construction sector’s demand on natural resources accelerates climate change, and inefficient, unhealthy buildings negatively impact human health and wellbeing.

By 2050:

1.6 billion urban dwellers will be regularly exposed to extreme high temperatures
Over 800 million people living in more than 570 cities will be vulnerable to sea level rise and coastal flooding
By 2060 the world’s building stock will double and almost 70% of the global population is projected to live in urban areas

By 2030, efficient buildings will be an investment opportunity worth $24.7 trillion Despite this, under $3 of every $100 spent on new construction goes to efficient buildings. Out of the 186 countries that have submitted Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), 136 countries mention buildings, 53 countries mention building energy efficiency, and 38 specifically call out building energy codes. Most countries do not include full building decarbonisation targets and certain areas such as building materials are under addressed.

All countries will also need to include full building decarbonisation targets, concrete policies and measures and related implementation mechanisms in their NDCs.

1,000 cities and at least 20% of the largest built environment businesses by revenue committed to the UN’s Race to Zero.
The sector’s stakeholders unite behind a single voice and ambition towards shared goals:
By 2030, 100% of new buildings must be net-zero carbon in operation and embodied carbon must be reduced by at least 40%, and by 2050, all new and existing assets must be net zero across the whole life cycle (see UNFCCC Human Settlements Pathway).

For the built environment to contribute its fair share of emissions reductions and stay within the 1.5°C degree warming limit, there needs to be a halving of emissions by 2030 and net zero over the full life-cycle by or before 2050. More specifically, this means that by 2030 all new buildings should be “net zero carbon” in operation (no emissions from building energy use) and embodied carbon needs to be reduced by at least 40%.

Building and infrastructure projects have extended lead times. It can take anywhere from a few years to 15-20 years to complete a project, from the initial planning stage to execution and operational start. This means that “2030 is today”. A project that is entering the planning stage in 2022-23 needs to target the required carbon performance for 2030 imperatively.

Today, only very few building projects calculate and report their full carbon footprint, which is a critical practice if we want to understand how to reduce all emissions over the life cycle of buildings. Yet, if owners, developers and investors start requesting Whole Life Carbon assessments, architecture, engineering and construction firms offer them in all their projects, and cities require them in their permitting and procurement procedures, then we could rapidly build up the evidence allowing for benchmarking and target setting and enable everyone to act to achieve them.

During this year’s conference, the Clean Construction Accelerator was announced, an act that hopes to support the built environment sector in halving emissions by 2030 for all new buildings and infrastructure projects.

There are many positives already. The percentage of construction companies, by revenue, that have joined the Race to Zero has doubled since COP26. Building on this over the next few years is going to be key to achieving the targets/ We look forward to COP28 to see progress.

Sources: archdaily.com / buildingtocop.org