How Regulations Impact the Use of Sustainable Materials in the Construction Industry

This February 2023 piece looked at how rules and voluntary schemes are pushing construction towards lower-carbon materials, citing timber, recycled plastic and natural insulation as examples.

It highlighted Building Regulations Part L, which sets energy performance standards covering both new and existing buildings. Its latest revision, the piece said, requires new buildings to cut carbon emissions by 31% against previous standards, so builders must use renewable energy systems and low-carbon materials. It also stated that, under the 2019 Climate Change Act, a ban on fossil fuels in new-build housing was due from 2025, with new homes needing features such as heat pumps, better insulation and double glazing.

Industry initiatives were also covered. Under the Net Zero Carbon Buildings Commitment from the UK Green Building Council, the aim is for organisations to hit net zero building emissions by 2030, while BREEAM certification, which rates the sustainability performance of buildings, has become widely used.

The article concluded that the construction sector carries a major responsibility for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adopting sustainable practice.

Originally published on The Landsite (28 February 2023)