The UKGBC says the government must do more to improve buildings’ sustainability.
The UK Green Building Council (UK-GBC) has today responded to the latest report setting out the UK’s progress in tackling climate change.
The report, published by the Committee on Climate Change, says that “urgent action” is needed now to avoid the increasing costs and impacts of climate change in the UK.
On buildings, the Committee specifically recommends that Government must “develop plans and policies that deliver low-carbon heat and energy efficiency, whilst also addressing the increasing risks of heat stress and flooding”.
The Committee’s five recommendations for action on buildings in this Parliament are:
Develop an action plan to address the significant shortfall in low-carbon heat in the 2020s, also ensuring a better integration with energy efficiency and fuel poverty. Commit to the Renewable Heat Incentive to 2020, or until a suitable replacement is found.
“The Committee has issued a clear warning – progress on improving our buildings is currently falling short. The Government must follow its advice and agree an action plan for energy efficiency which results in homes that are cheaper to heat and that are shielded from the worst effects of climate change,” said Julie Hirigoyen, Chief Executive of the UK Green Building Council.