In a statement of intent to tackle emissions from the UK’s built
environment, the Government appears willing to explore whole-life
carbon assessments and ratcheting targets to reduce emissions. In
2023 Ministers will launch a consultation on implementing a
proposal from the Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) which has
the potential to address the source of 25% of the UK’s greenhouse
gas emissions.
The Government made the undertaking in its response to an EAC
report which examined the sustainability of the built
environment.
EAC considers that the new administration must now build on this
momentum, acknowledging the urgency of clamping down on built
environment emissions which was demonstrated in the Committee’s
report. EAC considers that the Government’s timescales need to be
more ambitious to meet carbon budgets and the Government’s net
zero target. The Committee will press for the consultation to
cover the mandating of whole-life carbon assessments through
regulation and the planning system, and to propose progressively
more ambitious carbon targets for the built environment that are
consistent with climate commitments and carbon budgets.
Crucially, the consultation must propose a clear and achievable
timeline for introduction of mandatory whole-life carbon
assessments.
EAC welcomes the Government’s intention to review the National
Planning Policy Framework to ensure that it contributes as fully
as possible to climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts.
This review is also to consider the role of circular economy
principles in the built environment to boost the recycling and
reuse of materials, a significant Committee recommendation.
While the Government’s response engages thoughtfully with a
number of EAC’s recommendations, members are concerned that the
rejection of a recommendation to fast-track the introduction of
the Future Homes Standard represents a missed opportunity. If
brought forward, the Future Homes Standard would accelerate the
construction of low carbon homes with increased energy
efficiency, which would in turn lead to lower household bills for
energy use.
Chair's comment
Environmental Audit Committee Chairman, Rt Hon MP, said:
“The Government’s positive response to our Committee’s report
represents a clear statement of intent to crack down on emissions
from the built environment. Emissions from buildings – both in
the fabric of building materials and the operating emissions –
have been overlooked for too long, but it is a promising sign
that Ministers now appear intent on taking action.
“Emissions in buildings span the responsibilities of multiple
government departments. After years of pressure from this
Committee, it appears that in this area departments are finally
starting to demonstrate the joined-up working which is vital to
get to net zero.
“But this progress must continue under the new administration. It
is very welcome that the Prime Minister has already confirmed her
Government is committed to net zero. Tackling emissions from our
building stock must be a vital part in achieving this.
“I hope the new administration will reconsider fast-tracking the
Future Homes Standard. Mandating energy efficient new-build homes
will not only help the UK’s net zero ambitions, but will reduce
the energy bills for their future occupants. The Government must
be bold and act now on energy efficiency.”
EAC has written to the
Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and
Communities reiterating the Committee’s findings
detailed in its report, and making the case for action to address
emissions associated with the built environment.
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