Wasteful homes ‘risk eco-targets’
21/6/2006 BBC Key environmental targets are “undeliverable” unless households cut the amount of resources they consume, a government-commissioned report warns. The UK’s 21 million domestic dwellings are responsible for 27% of CO2 emissions, consume half of water supplies, and produce 8% of all waste. Retrofitting existing technologies is the most cost-effective way to reduce households’ impact, the study says. The report comes from the Sustainable Development Commission. At least 75% of existing properties are still expected to be in use in 2050, the year by which the government hopes to have cut carbon emissions by 60% from 1990 levels. That is why there is a need to focus on today’s dwellings, rather than undertaking a widespread rebuilding programme, the report’s authors say. ”You cannot possibly deliver a 60% reduction in carbon emissions by doing nothing to the existing housing stock,” said Professor Anne Power, a member of the SDC and one of the report’s authors. She said there were promising signs within Whitehall that the efficiency message was getting through. ”In the last few months there has been a really big recognition, and almost every ministerial statement on what should happen next now refers to the existing housing stock,” Professor Power said. The report makes a range of recommendations, including: Setting enforceable standards for carbon emissions, water consumption and the reduction of household waste. Encouraging the take-up of currently available technologies, such as insulation, improved heating systems and water/energy efficient equipment. Making VAT the same for refurbishment and new building, ending the current distortion that encourages homes to be demolished rather than refurbished. Better use of “smart meters” for water and energy to help owners make the link between greater efficiency and cutting bills. Encouraging local authorities to provide high quality doorstep collection services for recyclable materials.