Climate Change - The Impact on Developers

Many developers are having to re-assess their development of new-build properties in order to comply with the Government objectives of making all new-build homes carbon neutral by 2016.

Approximately 50% of the UK’s carbon dioxide emissions are emitted by buildings. Residential properties are the worst offenders but commercial properties also account for approximately 14%. All developers, whether residential or commercial are being urged to consider methods of introducing energy efficiency apparatus into their buildings.

The Government is encouraging the building of 5 eco-towns where all properties will be carbon neutral. The properties to be built will be aimed at families and will have gardens as well as good transport links to local towns and cities. All schools and shops will be located in such a way that people can walk to them in order to prevent the extra carbon emissions from the normal school run.

Options available to developers to assist in the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions vary but include ensuring that all residential properties have both wall and roof insulation, the use of solar panels, wind turbines, water saving devices and lighting that adapts depending upon the level of daylight will be encouraged. A reduction in the use of air conditioning is also being suggested. However as climate change takes effect and temperatures rise, the use of air conditioning will become more prolific and is likely to lead to a rise in carbon dioxide emissions.

The cost of green builds far outweighs the cost of standard-builds for developers. This will result in either increased costs for purchasers, making it harder for first time buyers to get onto the property ladder or the selling price of the land will need to be reduced. Potentially this could affect the amount of land for sale.

Various Government initiatives are in place in order to encourage the reduction in the carbon footprint in the refurbishment of existing buildings and the construction of new buildings.

Although the cost to developers may increase as a result of the eco-friendly properties, the Government hope that the carbon dioxide emissions will reduce.

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