The definition and delivery of low and zero carbon

The extension of the Green Deal would create an opportunity to fund improvements in the fabric of the homes we are now building and which will still be in use in 60 to 100 years’ time. It will also aid the adoption of new technologies as they become available and help stimulate consumer demand for new homes that are built to low and zero carbon standards.

“With regard to the interim definition of zero carbon, we consider to be an important step towards improving the sustainability of UK homes. The proposed definition, although fairly complex, in our view sets a realistic base line in terms of the minimum performance standards to which the construction industry can and should be building for the next few years.

“As a world leader in the design, production and distribution of construction materials, we would however like to see this definition evolve. By adopting a fabric-first approach and using the many systems and solutions that are increasingly available to maximise the performance of the building envelope, it will be possible to build to Passive House and even Multi-Comfort House standards competitively on a larger scale. Many examples already exist across Europe of buildings constructed to these specifications and our hope is that the UK Government’s definition of zero carbon will progressively move towards the attainment of these higher standards so that homeowners can benefit further from homes that require the lowest amount of energy.”

Saint-Gobain is a sponsor of the Zero Carbon Hub Annual Conference. Its global strategy is focused on meeting some of the fundamental challenges faced by the world today: reducing energy consumption, limiting our impact on the environment, and creating a new generation of buildings which are safe, comfortable and energy efficient.

It is committed to the delivery of sustainable construction through the development of energy efficient products and systems and via the provision of training to ensure that industry professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills required to specify and install the right solutions.