think 07

Harvesting houses for the planet
By Patrick Jackson
BBC News

Buildings are expected to feature as a crucial area for energy-saving in the UN’s third report on climate change this week.

Encamped on the edge of London’s docklands development, a bazaar of corporate stalls is pursuing the green pound in Britain’s ever-hungry construction industry.

Production of concrete, that staple of modern building, alone accounts for up to 10% of man-made greenhouse gas, US scientists believe.

Then there is the energy spent on shipping the materials, and finally the power needs of the finished buildings.

Yet with a bit of clever substitution and sourcing, and some deft adjustments to the existing housing stock, environmentalists believe that CO2 emissions could be reduced anywhere in the world. [full article: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/6612381.stm]

1. Solar panels: Photo-voltaic cells generate electricity 2. ‘Brise soleil’: Shades prevent sun hitting windows 3. Straw bale panels: Help insulate building 4. Lime render: More breathable and flexible Source: City of York Council

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The Think 07 conference and exhibition (1-3 May 2007, ExCel, London) explores the wider responsibilities of the property and construction industries as we deal with the issues of climate change, urban renewal and redevelopment.