BUSINESS
Is the future eco-homes and carbon-zero offices? We speak to Blakeney Leigh for their insight. Climate change is a hot topic, every industry is constantly looking for new ways to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. Our homes and offices are major contributors, and in the battle to find a solution has come the emergence of eco-homes and carbon-zero offices. Blakeney Leigh’s senior building surveyor, Stuart Smith, shares insight into what this really means for you. With the Government outlining rigorous new standards in the Future Home Standard, it’s essential you have a full grasp of this scheme.
IS ZERO-CARBON HOUSING THE ANSWER?
The construction industry certainly is a large contributor to global emissions. Fortunately, however, in the UK we have some of the most innovative property developers. With such technological advancements in recent years, it’s now become possible to build sustainable homes without sacrificing aesthetics, safety and comfort. As more of us work from home in the ‘new normal’ it’s important we prioritise our home’s carbon footprint. However, with the UK’s challenging weather extremes it remains difficult to create carbon-zero homes. Yet, it’s certainly a step in the right direction and will force the industry to carefully consider construction projects.
HOW MUCH MORE EFFICIENT WILL HOMES BE UNDER THE NEW SCHEME?
Homes are set to be up to 80% more efficient under the scheme by the middle of the decade, and 31% more by the end of 2021. But this doesn’t just stop at new projects, home improvements will also have significantly stricter restrictions.
Low-carbon heating options will need to be installed in new homes, and upgrades to existing properties will be expected, utilising technologies such as heat pumps, cooling systems and fixed lighting. These measures will look to tackle overheating, driving down costly bills and helping the government meet its climate change goals. As they say, waste is a design flaw. At Blakeney Leigh, our designs always balance sustainability with practicality and cost constraints.
WILL YOUR BUSINESS BE AFFECTED?
Businesses have been forced to re-evaluate their office requirements and take a look at their sustainability promises.
Many are guilty of poorly utilising resources and as a result, have huge carbon footprints. But this is avoidable, and not only can it aid the environment, but it can also improve business image and employee wellbeing. The next decade will be the biggest investment opportunity our generation will face, so it’s clear to say that carbon-zero offices and eco-homes are certainly here to stay. If you are considering a new project, ensure you take sustainability into account. At Blakeney Leigh, we’ve been committed to high standards since our inception in 1986. We’re always looking for the next innovation in design and how we can aid you with your vision – and help the environment too.
Contact us at: T: 020 8777 7700 E: info@blakeneyleigh.co.uk Stuart joined Blakeney Leigh in 2014, already with an additional ten years behind him in the industry. He and the team are dedicated to their clients, able to offer the full range of property construction services.
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