PVCU AS PART OF THE SUSTAINABILITY CONVERSATION

highly energy efficient, use low carbon heating solutions, and, ultimately, be zero carbon ready.

Alongside emerging energy efficiency policies and new regulations, pressure also remains on housebuilders to use more sustainable building methods and informed product choices.

Consumer sentiment, fuelled by escalating climate concerns, means they are scrutinising businesses more closely than ever when it comes to how they act and operate. As a result, the environmental impact of product choices continues to be a key priority for housebuilders and associated supply chains.

Martin Benn, Head of New Build at Eurocell, outlines how recycled waste used to produce new high-performing, thermally efficient and aesthetically pleasing PVC-U window and door product solutions can support housebuilders as they strive to satisfy new and important environmental responsibilities.

Changes to Part L of the Building Regulations came into effect in 2022. A key objective of the new regulatory landscape is to ensure all new homes will produce 31% lower carbon emissions by incorporating renewable energy technology solutions.

This is a critical step on the journey to net zero and comes ahead of the Future Homes Standard which will be introduced in 2025. At that point, the requirement will be that all new homes are specified and constructed to be

PVC-U is already playing its part in helping the sector meet important environmental and regulatory obligations. Set against other potential product choices such as aluminium or timber composite, PVC-U offers longterm durability and high performance, attractive aesthetics to support design visions, cost-effective value and, through important initiatives such as Eurocell’s industry-leading recycling processes, a truly sustainable solution.

Compared with alternative choices for windows and doors, PVC-U is proven to deliver enhanced thermal performance. Combined with effective glazing solutions, buildings can be better insulated and use less energy with PVCU’s ability to offer a lower u-value for a lower cost.

For large-scale housebuilding developments, the option to achieve excellent thermal performance results through a cost-efficient product choice without compromise is a reason why PVC-U solutions containing high levels of recycled content are becoming the proven sustainable product choice for many.