Construction material manufacture (Steel, Bricks, Cement) creates vast amounts of CO2. Cement alone causes circa 8% of global emissions.
A new report Decarbonising construction: building a new net zero industry by the Royal Academy of Engineering, proposes that the construction sector should where possible re-use buildings, employ more recycled material, and use machinery powered by clean fuels.
The extent of "embodied emissions", which is the CO2 emitted when buildings and materials are made is not fully recognised, compared with the emissions from sources like carbon from aircraft, vehicles and gas boilers.
New ways of thinking is needed whilst planning new homes, factories, roads and bridges.
The report authors highlight that one of our biggest failure is that we build buildings, then we knock them down and throw them away. The massive programmes for transport £27Nn for road building and HS2 are also challenged due to the CO2 impact they will have.
The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) estimates that 35% of the lifecycle carbon from a typical office development is emitted before the building is even opened. The figure for residential premises is 51%.
The report has been welcomed by the Architects' Journal, which has been campaigning against any unnecessary demolition.
It wants the government to change the VAT rules which can make it cheaper to rebuild than to refurbish a standing building.
New building is an environmental issue View article
The UK is legally bound to reach net zero carbon by 2050. The Architects Climate Action Group (Acan) campaign group, is highlighting the that buildings made of brick, concrete and glass require, at present, burning large quantities of ‘fo... View article
Making our Built Environment sustainable... View article
The debate about how to make significant reductions greenhouse gas emissions from our built environment that is responsible for approximately 25% of total UK greenhouse gas emissions is getting increasing attention.
Recently the Tulip Scheme... View article
Help us make Guildford better
We want our town to be vibrant, attractive and liveable. We support development that brings a sense of place and enhances the best aspects of our town. If such aims can be embraced, we believe Guildford has the chance to lead the way in enabling sensitive and sustainable development.
Pressures for development are increasing. Planning rules are being eased. The Society’s commitment to standing up for Guildford is needed more than ever.
Support Us
Getting involved allows the society to continue its work. We welcome new members, from every age and background. Membership provides an opportunity for you to contribute to the continued health of the town and surrounding area, and to meet other people who care about Guildford.
