Breathe in, not out

I wonder why lobbying groups and national newspapers continue to talk about air traffic’s contribution to carbon emissions when buildings contribute over 40% of total emissions! The construction industry continues to remain low on the radar despite the prominent role it clearly plays.

Carbon tax and CO₂ reduction were top talking points in this year’s Budget and I think we all acknowledge this will have a significant impact on the future of the building industry. But there is little recognition or appreciation of the role the sector can play in reducing total emissions.

Under the Climate Change Act, the Government has set limits on carbon emissions for the next 40 years, aiming to reduce emissions by 80% (compared to 1990) by 2050. A series of five-year targets are being imposed, and the UK is reportedly on target to meet the first 22% reduction by 2012.

As one of the biggest consumers of global energy, buildings as a whole are now being targeted. Research by the World Business Council for Sustainable Development has revealed that the world’s houses and office buildings consume 40% of global energy and emit the same proportion of gases. (At this point I switch the television and printer off at the plug).

Of course, all of us involved in the roofing and cladding industry may feel we have been there before. But are you aware of the series of changes to the Building Regulations Part L (in Scotland Technical Standards Part J) that are being stacked up to achieve this, with the aim of 34% reduction by 2020?

It is anticipated that by April next year the first steps will be introduced, followed by more in 2013, which is why we need to take actions now to be ready for new changes in the future.

The industry is faced with the scenario that excessive energy consumption (including CO₂ emissions) is going to be hammered by both legislative and economic pressures. As energy and CO₂ footprints become a general business issue - perhaps even taxed - building occupiers and building owners will be demanding proof of long term efficiency.

One of the main contributors to carbon emissions is air leakage from the interfaces and lap joints within many types of roofing and cladding materials, which significantly reduces the thermal efficiency of a building. At SFS intec, we have been working hard to provide the industry with warranted butyl sealants that are designed to perform to the rigorous standards demanded by the Building Regulations, with a 25 year warranty providing sustainable performance.

Similarly, in response to innovation in the building envelope, we have developed a range of bespoke austenitic stainless steel fasteners for each specific application, including composite panel, built up roofing, aluminium standing seam, single ply, and rainscreen and façades. Examples of these can be found on the products pages of this site.

As we fight to rise out of recession and strive to make measureable cost-efficiencies when it comes to commercial and other non-residential properties, it is clear that improving our installation practices and using warranted materials are central to the future of construction.