Public Sector Targets
The Government has targeted construction and building maintenance as a key focal point for improvement. In June 2006, at the launch of the cross-Government Sustainable Development strategy - Securing the Future – the Prime Minister committed Government to lead by example in promoting sustainable development. The strategy defined several key areas which were targeted as key performance indicators in the government estate, including:
- Carbon neutrality;
- Carbon emissions;
- Energy efficiency;
- Waste and recycling;
- Biodiversity;
- Water consumption
It was also announced that the application of BRE’s Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) excellent standards, or equivalent, was to be applied to all new builds and major refurbishments.
The Code for Sustainable Homes has challenged most social landlords to build houses to Code Level 3 and all house builders to provide zero carbon homes by 2016.
Some of the targets which have been set are listed below:
2010
UK targeting 25% energy and carbon improvement for building performance
(Communities and Local Government)
The Mayor’s Energy Strategy commits London to reducing its emissions of carbon dioxide by 20%
(London Government)
Increase the general level of energy efficiency of residential accommodation in England by at least 20%.
(Draft Government Construction Strategy
Government departments to increase their energy efficiency per square metre by 15%
(UK Government Sustainable Procurement Action Plan 2007)
50% of buildings and construction schemes over £1m in value to use stewardship and responsible sourcing principles (proposed)
Draft Government Construction Strategy)
All new homes to achieve Code Level 3
2012
Central Government’s office estate to go carbon neutral by 2012
(UK Government Sustainable Procurement Action Plan 2007)
Equally challenging targets have been set in the health, education and local government sectors often accompanied by clearly defined targets and deadlines. The Energy Performance in Buildings Directive, the Merton Rule and Planning Policy Statements have all led to the acceleration of sustainable development.
