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In a statement of intent to tackle emissions from the UK’s built environment, the Government appears willing to explore whole-life carbon assessments and ratcheting targets to reduce emissions. In 2023 Ministers will launch a consultation on implementing a proposal from the Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) which has the potential to address the source of 25% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions.

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The Government made the undertaking in its response to an EAC report which examined the sustainability of the built environment.

EAC considers that the new administration must now build on this momentum, acknowledging the urgency of clamping down on built environment emissions which was demonstrated in the Committee’s report. EAC considers that the Government’s timescales need to be more ambitious to meet carbon budgets and the Government’s net zero target. The Committee will press for the consultation to cover the mandating of whole-life carbon assessments through regulation and the planning system, and to propose progressively more ambitious carbon targets for the built environment that are consistent with climate commitments and carbon budgets. Crucially, the consultation must propose a clear and achievable timeline for introduction of mandatory whole-life carbon assessments.

EAC welcomes the Government’s intention to review the National Planning Policy Framework to ensure that it contributes as fully as possible to climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts. This review is also to consider the role of circular economy principles in the built environment to boost the recycling and reuse of materials, a significant Committee recommendation.

While the Government’s response engages thoughtfully with a number of EAC’s recommendations, members are concerned that the rejection of a recommendation to fast-track the introduction of the Future Homes Standard represents a missed opportunity. If brought forward, the Future Homes Standard would accelerate the construction of low carbon homes with increased energy efficiency, which would in turn lead to lower household bills for energy use.

Chair's comment

Environmental Audit Committee Chairman, Rt Hon Philip Dunne MP, said:

“The Government’s positive response to our Committee’s report represents a clear statement of intent to crack down on emissions from the built environment. Emissions from buildings – both in the fabric of building materials and the operating emissions – have been overlooked for too long, but it is a promising sign that Ministers now appear intent on taking action.

“Emissions in buildings span the responsibilities of multiple government departments. After years of pressure from this Committee, it appears that in this area departments are finally starting to demonstrate the joined-up working which is vital to get to net zero.

“But this progress must continue under the new administration. It is very welcome that the Prime Minister has already confirmed her Government is committed to net zero. Tackling emissions from our building stock must be a vital part in achieving this.

“I hope the new administration will reconsider fast-tracking the Future Homes Standard. Mandating energy efficient new-build homes will not only help the UK’s net zero ambitions, but will reduce the energy bills for their future occupants. The Government must be bold and act now on energy efficiency.”

EAC has written to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities reiterating the Committee’s findings detailed in its report, and making the case for action to address emissions associated with the built environment.  

Further information

• Inquiry: Sustainability of the built environment
• Environmental Audit Committee
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